Thermostat assembly

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a thermostat assembly, belonging to the technical field of automotive engine cooling systems. The thermostat assembly includes a first housing and a temperature control component. The first housing has a first interface, a second interface, and a third interface. The temperature control component includes a first valve core, a second valve core, and a temperature sensing element. The first valve core is located within the first housing and between the first and second interfaces. The second valve core is located within the first housing and between the first and third interfaces. The temperature sensing element is located within the first housing and is kinetically connected to the first and second valve cores. When the engine temperature is low, the temperature sensing element can simultaneously block the connection passage between the first and second interfaces and the connection passage between the first and third interfaces. This prevents the coolant circulation pipes from dissipating heat from the engine, thereby shortening the engine's temperature rise time and avoiding higher fuel consumption caused by the engine operating at low temperatures.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of automotive engine cooling system technology, and particularly to a thermostat assembly. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, the automotive cooling system, as a key component ensuring the normal operation of the engine, plays a crucial role in absorbing and removing the heat generated during engine operation through the circulating coolant, thereby ensuring that the engine temperature is always maintained within a suitable operating range. To precisely control this circulation process, the automotive cooling system typically relies on the thermostat, a critical component.

[0003] In related technologies, when the engine temperature is low, the thermostat is closed, and the coolant flows in the engine's small circulation pipe; when the engine temperature is high, the thermostat is open, and the coolant can flow in the engine's large circulation pipe with a radiator, dissipating the heat generated by the engine in a timely manner, thereby maintaining the engine's stable operation.

[0004] During the cold engine warm-up phase, the engine needs to warm up quickly to meet the needs of its internal components. At this time, the thermostat causes the coolant to flow in the engine's small circulation loop. The operation of the small circulation loop causes some of the engine's heat to dissipate, thus prolonging the engine's warm-up time and increasing the vehicle's fuel consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides a thermostat assembly that can solve the aforementioned technical problems existing in related technologies. The technical solution is as follows:

[0006] The thermostat assembly includes a first housing and a temperature control component;

[0007] The first housing has a first interface, a second interface, and a third interface;

[0008] The temperature control component includes a first valve core, a second valve core, and a temperature sensing element;

[0009] The first valve core is located inside the first housing and between the first interface and the second interface;

[0010] The second valve core is located inside the first housing and between the first interface and the third interface;

[0011] The temperature sensing element is located inside the first housing and is operatively connected to the first valve core and the second valve core. The temperature sensing element is used to: drive the first valve core and the second valve core to close when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing is less than a first temperature threshold, thereby blocking the connection passage between the first interface and the second interface, and blocking the connection passage between the first interface and the third interface; drive the first valve core to close and the second valve core to open when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing is greater than the first temperature threshold and less than a second temperature threshold, thereby blocking the connection passage between the first interface and the second interface, and opening the connection passage between the first interface and the third interface; drive the first valve core to open when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing is greater than the second temperature threshold, thereby opening the connection passage between the first interface and the second interface.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the temperature sensing element is also used for:

[0013] When the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing is greater than the second temperature threshold and less than the third temperature threshold, the first valve core and the second valve core are driven to open, so as to connect the connection path between the first interface and the second interface, and connect the connection path between the first interface and the third interface.

[0014] When the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing is greater than the third temperature threshold, the first valve core is driven to open and the second valve core is driven to close, so as to open the connection path between the first interface and the second interface and block the connection path between the first interface and the third interface.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the temperature sensing element includes a bracket, a second housing, a fixing element, and a temperature sensing medium;

[0016] The bracket is connected to the first housing;

[0017] The second housing has an opening at one end, and the second housing is slidably connected to the bracket;

[0018] One end of the fastener is connected to the bracket, and the other end passes through the opening and is located inside the second housing. The fastener is slidably connected to the opening and is sealed to the opening.

[0019] The temperature-sensing medium is filled inside the second housing;

[0020] The second housing is used to slide relative to the bracket under the force generated by the change in the volume of the temperature-sensing medium, so as to drive the first valve core and the second valve core.

[0021] In some possible implementations, the second housing is located between a first position and a second position, and the second housing drives the first valve core to close and the second valve core to open, wherein the first position is the position where the second housing is located when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing is a first temperature threshold, and the second position is the position where the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing is a second temperature threshold;

[0022] The second housing is located between the second position and the third position. The second housing drives the first valve core to open and the second valve core to open. The third position is the position of the second housing when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing is a third temperature threshold.

[0023] The second housing is located between the third and fourth positions. The second housing drives the first valve core to open and the second valve core to close. The fourth position is a predetermined position of the second housing when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing is greater than a third temperature threshold.

[0024] In some possible implementations, the first housing has a first partition and a second partition;

[0025] The first partition is located in the connection path between the first interface and the second interface, and the first partition has a first through hole. The first partition is adapted to the first valve core.

[0026] The second partition is located in the connection passage between the first interface and the third interface, and the second partition has a second through hole. The second partition is adapted to the second valve core.

[0027] In some possible implementations, the first valve core includes a third housing, a sealing ring, and a first elastic element. The third housing is slidably connected to the second housing. The sealing ring is opposite to the first through hole and connected to the third housing. The two ends of the first elastic element are respectively connected to the third housing and the bracket.

[0028] In some possible implementations, the second housing has a first stepped structure, the third housing has a second stepped structure, the first stepped structure is separated from the second stepped structure when the second housing is located between the first position and the second position, and the first stepped structure abuts against the second stepped structure when the second housing is located between the second position and the fourth position.

[0029] In some possible implementations, the second valve core includes a connecting rod, a first seal, a second seal, a second elastic element, and a third elastic element;

[0030] The connecting rod is connected to the side of the second housing away from the opening;

[0031] The first seal and the second seal are located on both sides of the second through hole and are slidably connected to the connecting rod. The distance between the first seal and the temperature sensing element is less than the distance between the second seal and the temperature sensing element.

[0032] The two ends of the second elastic element are respectively connected to the first seal and the second housing, and the two ends of the third elastic element are respectively connected to the second seal and the connecting rod.

[0033] In some possible implementations, the second seal has a plurality of openings opposite to the second through hole.

[0034] In some possible implementations, the temperature-sensing medium is temperature-sensing wax.

[0035] The beneficial effects of the technical solutions provided in this disclosure include at least the following:

[0036] In this embodiment, when the engine temperature is low, the temperature sensing element can simultaneously block the connection path between the first and second interfaces, and between the first and third interfaces. This prevents the coolant circulation pipes from dissipating heat from the engine, thereby shortening the engine's temperature rise time and avoiding higher fuel consumption caused by the engine operating at low temperatures.

[0037] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0039] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of a thermostat assembly provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 2 This is a second schematic diagram of a thermostat assembly provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 3 This is the third schematic diagram of a thermostat assembly provided in this embodiment;

[0042] Figure 4This is the fourth schematic diagram of a thermostat assembly provided in this embodiment;

[0043] Figure 5 This is an exploded schematic diagram of a thermostat assembly provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second sealing element provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0045] Figure 7 This is a flow diagram of a thermostat assembly provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0046] Figure label:

[0047] 1. First housing; 11. First interface; 12. Second interface; 13. Third interface; 14. First partition; 14a. First through hole; 15. Second partition; 15a. Second through hole;

[0048] 2. Temperature control components;

[0049] 21. First valve core; 211. Third housing; 211a. Second stepped structure; 212. Sealing ring; 213. First elastic element;

[0050] 22. Second valve core; 221. Connecting rod; 222. First seal; 223. Second seal; 223a. Opening; 224. Second elastic element; 225. Third elastic element;

[0051] 23. Temperature sensing element; 231. Bracket; 232. Second housing; 232a. Opening; 232b. First step structure; 233. Fixing element; 234. Temperature sensing medium. Detailed Implementation

[0052] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] This disclosure provides a thermostat assembly, referring to... Figure 1 As shown, the thermostat assembly may include a first housing 1 and a temperature control component 2.

[0054] The first housing 1 has a first interface 11, a second interface 12, and a third interface 13. The first interface 11 is the outlet of the engine body, meaning that after cooling the engine body, the engine coolant flows out of the engine body and into the thermostat assembly through the first interface 11. The second interface 12 is connected to the engine's large-circuit cooling pipe, and the third interface 13 is connected to the engine's small-circuit cooling pipe. The cooling capacity of the engine's large-circuit cooling pipe is greater than that of the engine's small-circuit cooling pipe. The engine's large-circuit cooling pipe is used for rapid heat dissipation of the engine body when the engine body temperature is high, while the engine's small-circuit cooling pipe is used for basic heat dissipation of the engine body when the engine body temperature is low, in order to maintain the normal operating temperature of the engine body.

[0055] The temperature control assembly 2 may include a first valve core 21, a second valve core 22, and a temperature sensing element 23. The first valve core 21 is located inside the first housing 1 and between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12, and is used to open or close the coolant passage between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12. The second valve core 22 is located inside the first housing 1 and between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13, and is used to open or close the coolant passage between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13.

[0056] The temperature sensing element 23 is located inside the first housing 1 and is connected to the first valve core 21 and the second valve core 22. The temperature sensing element 23 is used to: when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing 1 is less than a first temperature threshold (and... Figure 7 When the time point t1 corresponds to the first valve core 21 and the second valve core 22 are closed, the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12 is blocked, and the connection between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13 is also blocked; when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing 1 is greater than the first temperature threshold and less than the second temperature threshold (corresponding to the first temperature threshold t1), the first valve core 21 and the second valve core 22 are closed, thereby blocking the connection between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12, and blocking the connection between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13. Figure 7 When the time node t3 is reached, the first valve core 21 is driven to close and the second valve core 22 is driven to open, so as to block the connection passage between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12 and to open the connection passage between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13; when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing 1 is greater than the second temperature threshold, the first valve core 21 is driven to open, so as to open the connection passage between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12.

[0057] In this embodiment, when the engine temperature is low and rapid warm-up is needed, the temperature sensing element 23 can simultaneously block the connection passage between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12, and the connection passage between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13. This prevents the coolant circulation pipe from dissipating heat from the engine, thereby shortening the engine's warm-up time and avoiding higher fuel consumption caused by the engine operating at a low temperature.

[0058] In some embodiments, the coolant is water. Using water as the coolant results in lower operating costs, and the coolant is widely available and easily accessible, allowing users to replenish the engine's cooling lines promptly.

[0059] In other embodiments, the coolant may also include substances such as calcium chloride, methanol, ethanol, ethylene glycol, and glycerol to lower the freezing point of the coolant and prevent it from freezing in cold environments, thus hindering its flow and timely heat exchange with the engine block. The coolant may also include various additives, such as corrosion inhibitors, scale inhibitors, and antifoaming agents, to improve its corrosion resistance, anti-cavitation ability, anti-boiling performance, and reduce scale formation.

[0060] In some embodiments, the temperature sensing element 23 is further configured to: when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing 1 is greater than a second temperature threshold and less than a third temperature threshold (and... Figure 7 When the time node t4 is reached, the first valve core 21 and the second valve core 22 are opened to connect the first interface 11 and the second interface 12, and to connect the first interface 11 and the third interface 13. When the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing 1 is greater than the third temperature threshold, the first valve core 21 is opened and the second valve core 22 is closed to connect the first interface 11 and the second interface 12, and to block the connection between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13.

[0061] Reference Figure 7 As shown, time node t3 is located between time nodes t1 and t4, that is, before the second valve core 22 is fully closed, the first valve core 21 gradually opens. This avoids a rapid decrease in the overall flow output of the thermostat assembly during the gradual decrease in flow of the second valve core 22, thus reducing the heat dissipation of the subsequent cooling circulation pipes. At this time, the engine temperature continues to rise, and the user does not want the engine temperature to continue to rise rapidly. This setting ensures that the overall flow of the thermostat assembly decreases only slightly or increases steadily.

[0062] This disclosure does not limit the specific location of time node t3 within the time interval between time nodes t1 and t4. For example, time node t3 can be located between time nodes t1 and t2, or between time nodes t2 and t4. The specific location can be matched and set according to the different heat dissipation requirements of the thermostat assembly under different usage scenarios.

[0063] Reference Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, the temperature sensing element 23 may include a bracket 231, a second housing 232, a fixing member 233, and a temperature sensing medium 234. The bracket 231 is connected to the first housing 1 and serves to fix or support the various components of the temperature sensing element 23. One end of the second housing 232 has an opening 232a, and the second housing 232 is slidably connected to the bracket 231.

[0064] One end of the fixing member 233 is connected to the bracket 231, and the other end passes through the opening 232a and is located inside the second housing 232. The fixing member 233 is slidably connected to the opening 232a, and the fixing member 233 and the opening 232a are sealed. The sealing between the fixing member 233 and the opening 232a prevents the leakage of the liquid temperature sensing medium 234 from the opening 232a, thereby preventing the temperature sensing element 23 from malfunctioning.

[0065] A temperature-sensing medium 234 is filled within the second housing 232. The medium 234 can sense the temperature of the coolant and change its volume accordingly. Specifically, the higher the coolant temperature, the more the temperature-sensing medium 234 expands, resulting in a larger overall volume. Since the fixing member 233 is fixedly connected to the bracket 231, the mutual compression between the fixing member 233 and the temperature-sensing medium 234 generates a force on the second housing 232 in the relative sliding direction between the second housing 232 and the bracket 231. Consequently, under the force generated by the volume change of the temperature-sensing medium 234, the second housing 232 moves relative to the bracket 231 along a first direction (refer to...). Figure 1 Slide (in the direction of the arrow in the image) to drive the first valve core 21 and the second valve core 22.

[0066] In some embodiments, the second housing 232 is located in a first position (see reference). Figure 1 (as shown) and the second position (refer to) Figure 2 Between (as shown), the second housing 232 drives the first valve core 21 to close and the second valve core 22 to open.

[0067] Wherein, the first position is the position where the second housing 232 is located when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing 1 is a first temperature threshold, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the second valve core 22 is in a critical state of opening and closing, the first valve core 21 is in a closed state, and the first step structure 232b and the second step structure 211a are in a phase-separated state.

[0068] The second position is the position where the second housing 232 is located when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing 1 is the second temperature threshold, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the second valve core 22 is in the open state, the first valve core 21 is in the critical state of opening and closing, and the first step structure 232b and the second step structure 211a change from a state of separation to a state of contact.

[0069] Reference Figure 3 As shown, the second housing 232 is located in the second position and the third position (see reference). Figure 4 Between (as shown), the second housing 232 drives the first valve core 21 to open and the second valve core 22 to open.

[0070] The third position refers to the location of the second housing 232 when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing 1 is at the third temperature threshold, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the first valve core 21 is in the open state, and the second valve core 22 is in the critical state between opening and closing.

[0071] The second housing 232 is located between the third and fourth positions, and the second housing 232 drives the first valve core 21 to open and the second valve core 22 to close.

[0072] The fourth position is a predetermined position of the second housing 232 when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing 1 is greater than the third temperature threshold. The fourth position can be the farthest position that the second housing 232 can slide along the first direction. At this time, the volume of the temperature sensing medium 234 reaches the maximum state and the temperature sensing medium 234 no longer continues to expand.

[0073] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 5 As shown, the first housing 1 has a first partition 14 and a second partition 15. The first partition 14 is located in the connection passage between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12, and the first partition 14 has a first through hole 14a. The first partition 14 is adapted to the first valve core 21. The first valve core 21 opens or blocks the coolant passage between the first interface 11 and the second interface 12 by opening or blocking the first through hole 14a.

[0074] The second partition 15 is located in the connection passage between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13, and the second partition 15 has a second through hole 15a. The second partition 15 is adapted to the second valve core 22. The second valve core 22 opens or blocks the coolant passage between the first interface 11 and the third interface 13 by opening or blocking the second through hole 15a.

[0075] Reference Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the first valve core 21 may include a third housing 211, a sealing ring 212, and a first elastic member 213. The third housing 211 is slidably connected to the second housing 232, the sealing ring 212 is opposite to the first through hole 14a and connected to the third housing 211, and the two ends of the first elastic member 213 are respectively connected to the third housing 211 and the bracket 231.

[0076] When the first step structure 232b and the second step structure 211a are separated, under the elastic force of the first elastic element 213, the third housing 211 applies force to the sealing ring 212, so that the sealing ring 212 is tightly attached to the first partition 14, thereby ensuring that the coolant cannot flow into the second interface 12 after passing through the first through hole 14a.

[0077] When the first step structure 232b and the second step structure 211a are in contact, the force exerted by the second housing 232 on the third housing 211 is greater than the force exerted by the first elastic member 213 on the third housing 211 in the opposite direction. Under the combined action of multiple forces, the third housing 211 drives the sealing ring 212 to move along the first direction, and the sealing ring 212 separates from the first partition 14. At this time, the coolant can pass through the first through hole 14a and flow into the second interface 12.

[0078] Reference Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the second housing 232 has a first stepped structure 232b, and the third housing 211 has a second stepped structure 211a. When the second housing 232 is located between the first position and the second position, the first stepped structure 232b is separated from the second stepped structure 211a, and the second housing 232 does not apply a force along the first direction to the third housing 211. When the second housing 232 is located between the second position and the fourth position, the first stepped structure 232b abuts against the second stepped structure 211a, and the second housing 232 applies a force along the first direction to the third housing 211. When the force applied by the second housing 232 to the third housing 211 is greater than the force applied by the first elastic member 213 to the third housing 211 (the mass of the third housing 211 and the sealing ring 212 is small and can be ignored), the third housing 211 begins to drive the sealing ring 212 to move along the first direction.

[0079] In some embodiments, the second valve core 22 may include a connecting rod 221, a first seal 222, a second seal 223, a second elastic element 224, and a third elastic element 225. The connecting rod 221 is connected to the side of the second housing 232 away from the opening 232a. This disclosure does not specifically limit the connection relationship between the connecting rod 221 and the second housing 232. It can adopt a detachable connection method such as threaded fastening or snap-fit ​​connection, or a non-detachable connection method such as glue application or welding. The specific connection method can be matched and set according to the usage scenario of the thermostat assembly, the connection strength requirements, and other parameters.

[0080] The first seal 222 and the second seal 223 are located on both sides of the second through hole 15a and are slidably connected to the connecting rod 221. The distance between the first seal 222 and the temperature sensing element 23 is less than the distance between the second seal 223 and the temperature sensing element 23. The first seal 222 and the second seal 223 are parallel to each other and are both perpendicular to the first direction.

[0081] The two ends of the second elastic element 224 are connected to the first seal 222 and the second housing 231, respectively, and the two ends of the third elastic element 225 are connected to the second seal 223 and the connecting rod 221, respectively. When the second housing 232 is in the first position or earlier (corresponding to...) Figure 7 From time 0 to time node t1, the second elastic element 224 applies an elastic force along the first direction to the first seal 222, and the third elastic element 225 applies an elastic force opposite to the first direction to the second seal 223. Under the action of the elastic force of the third elastic element 225 on the second seal 223, the second seal 223 is tightly fitted to the second partition 15 to prevent the coolant from passing through the second through hole 15a and entering the third interface 13.

[0082] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 6 As shown, the second seal 223 has multiple openings 223a, which are opposite to the second through hole 15a. When the second valve core 22 is closed, the multiple openings 223a ensure that a small flow of coolant passes through the second through hole 15a and the second seal 223, and flows into the third interface 13 and the subsequent engine small cooling circulation pipe.

[0083] In this way, with both the first valve core 21 and the second valve core 22 closed, a small amount of coolant participates in the engine's cooling circulation system, preventing the engine from overheating in certain areas during the process of pursuing higher engine temperatures, which could lead to damage or deformation of some components.

[0084] In some embodiments, the temperature-sensing medium 234 is temperature-sensing wax. Temperature-sensing wax, also known as temperature-regulating wax, is a crystalline substance composed of carbon and hydrogen molecules from a mixture of alkanes. When heated, the temperature-sensing wax expands rapidly, generating a thrust that allows the second housing 232 to slide along a first direction. When the temperature drops, the temperature-sensing wax shrinks, and the second housing 232 can slide back to its initial position along the first direction. The temperature-sensing wax is manufactured with high precision and exhibits excellent performance repeatability, which helps extend the service life of the thermostat assembly.

[0085] The working principle of the thermostat assembly according to the present disclosure is described below by way of example:

[0086] Non-cyclic state (corresponding) Figure 7(Between the midpoint and time node t1): When the engine temperature is low, the user wants the engine to quickly warm up to its suitable operating temperature range. Coolant can enter the thermostat assembly from the first interface 11. The temperature sensing element 23 drives the first valve core 21 to block the first through hole 14a and the second valve core 22 to block the second through hole 15a. Coolant cannot flow from the second interface 12 into the engine's large-circuit cooling pipe, nor from the third interface 13 into the engine's small-circuit cooling pipe. The heat generated by the engine cannot be dissipated in time, which helps improve the engine's warm-up efficiency and prevents the engine temperature from becoming too low.

[0087] Small loop state (corresponding to) Figure 7 Between time nodes t1 and t3: The engine temperature has initially increased and is now within its optimal operating temperature range. To prevent further temperature increases beyond this range, coolant can enter the thermostat assembly from the first port 11. The temperature sensor 23 drives the first valve core 21 to block the first through-hole 14a, and the second valve core 22 to open the second through-hole 15a. Coolant can only flow into the engine's small-circuit cooling pipes from the third port 13. Because the engine's small-circuit cooling pipes have lower heat dissipation capacity, the thermostat in its small-circuit state can slow down the rate of engine temperature rise.

[0088] Mixed state of large and small cycles (corresponding to) Figure 7 Between time points t3 and t4: The engine temperature rises further, and the engine has higher heat dissipation requirements. The small-circuit cooling pipes can no longer meet the engine's heat dissipation needs. At this time, coolant can enter the thermostat assembly from the first interface 11. The temperature sensing element 23 drives the first valve core 21 to open the first through hole 14a and the second valve core 22 to open the second through hole 15a. The coolant can flow into the engine's large-circuit cooling pipes from the second interface 12 or into the engine's small-circuit cooling pipes from the third interface 13. The large and small circulations are carried out simultaneously to ensure that the engine operates at a suitable temperature, which is beneficial to the stable and efficient combustion of fuel in the combustion chamber.

[0089] Large loop state (corresponding) Figure 7At time point t4 and later: the engine temperature is high, and the engine reaches a higher heat dissipation demand. At this time, the temperature sensing element 23 drives the first valve core 21 to further open the first through hole 14a, further increasing the flow rate of coolant through the first through hole 14a. At the same time, the continued expansion of the first through hole 14a by the first valve core 21 causes the second valve core 22 to compress the notch area of ​​the second through hole 15a, gradually reducing the flow rate of coolant through the second through hole 15a. The engine large-circulation cooling pipe connected to the second interface 12 can compensate for the heat dissipation capacity of the engine small-circulation cooling pipe connected to the third interface 13, and can further improve the overall heat dissipation capacity of the circulation cooling pipe, thereby meeting the ever-increasing heat dissipation demand of the engine and avoiding excessively high engine temperature, which could lead to component deformation, breakage, melting, and other adverse phenomena.

[0090] In the description of this specification, the references to "certain embodiments," "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples" refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the described embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this disclosure. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0091] It is understood that in this disclosure, "multiple" refers to two or more, and other quantifiers are similar. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. The singular forms "a," "the," and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0092] It is further understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various types of information, but this information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from one another, and do not indicate a specific order or degree of importance. In fact, the expressions "first," "second," etc., are completely interchangeable. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, first information can also be referred to as second information, and similarly, second information can also be referred to as first information.

[0093] It is further understood that the terms “center,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” “front,” “rear,” “up,” “down,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “top,” “bottom,” “inner,” “outer,” “clockwise,” “counterclockwise,” “axial,” “radial,” and “circumferential” indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this embodiment and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0094] It is further understood that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral molding; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the two components; they can refer to a direct connection between two components without the presence of other components, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0095] It is further understood that although operations are described in a specific order in the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of this disclosure, this should not be construed as requiring these operations to be performed in the specific order or serial order shown, or requiring all of the shown operations to be performed to obtain the desired result. In certain environments, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous.

[0096] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the solutions disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the scope of the claims.

[0097] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A thermostat assembly, characterized in that, The thermostat assembly includes a first housing (1) and a temperature control component (2); The first housing (1) has a first interface (11), a second interface (12) and a third interface (13). The temperature control component (2) includes a first valve core (21), a second valve core (22), and a temperature sensing element (23); The first valve core (21) is located inside the first housing (1) and between the first interface (11) and the second interface (12); The second valve core (22) is located inside the first housing (1) and between the first interface (11) and the third interface (13); The temperature sensing element (23) includes a bracket (231), a second housing (232), a fixing member (233), and a temperature sensing medium (234). The bracket (231) is connected to the first housing (1). One end of the second housing (232) has an opening (232a). The second housing (232) is slidably connected to the bracket (231). One end of the fixing member (233) is connected to the bracket (231), and the other end passes through the opening (232a) and is located inside the second housing (232). The fixing member (233) is slidably connected to the opening (232a) and the fixing member (233) is sealed to the opening (232a). The temperature sensing medium (234) is filled inside the second housing (232). The second housing (232) is used to slide relative to the bracket (231) under the force generated by the volume change of the temperature sensing medium (234) to drive the first valve core (21) and the second valve core (22). The temperature sensing element (23) is located inside the first housing (1) and is connected to the first valve core (21) and the second valve core (22). The temperature sensing element (23) is used to: drive the first valve core (21) and the second valve core (22) to close when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing (1) is less than a first temperature threshold, thereby blocking the connection passage between the first interface (11) and the second interface (12) and blocking the connection passage between the first interface (11) and the third interface (13); when the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing (1) is greater than the first temperature threshold and less than the second temperature threshold, the second housing (232) is located between the first position and the second position, and the second housing (232) drives the first valve core (21) and the second valve core (22) to close. A valve core (21) is closed and a second valve core (22) is opened to block the connection passage between the first interface (11) and the second interface (12) and to open the connection passage between the first interface (11) and the third interface (13); when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing (1) is greater than the second temperature threshold, the first valve core (21) is driven to open to open the connection passage between the first interface (11) and the second interface (12), wherein the first position is the position of the second housing (232) when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing (1) is the first temperature threshold, and the second position is the position of the second housing (232) when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing (1) is the second temperature threshold.

2. The thermostat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature sensing element (23) is also used for: When the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing (1) is greater than the second temperature threshold and less than the third temperature threshold, the first valve core (21) and the second valve core (22) are driven to open, so as to connect the connection path between the first interface (11) and the second interface (12) and the connection path between the first interface (11) and the third interface (13); When the temperature of the fluid inside the first housing (1) is greater than the third temperature threshold, the first valve core (21) is driven to open and the second valve core (22) is driven to close, so as to open the connection path between the first interface (11) and the second interface (12) and block the connection path between the first interface (11) and the third interface (13).

3. The thermostat assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second housing (232) is located between the second position and the third position. The second housing (232) drives the first valve core (21) to open and the second valve core (22) to open. The third position is the position of the second housing (232) when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing (1) is a third temperature threshold. The second housing (232) is located between the third position and the fourth position. The second housing (232) drives the first valve core (21) to open and the second valve core (22) to close. The fourth position is a predetermined position of the second housing (232) when the temperature of the fluid in the first housing (1) is greater than a third temperature threshold.

4. The thermostat assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first housing (1) has a first partition (14) and a second partition (15); The first partition (14) is located in the connection passage between the first interface (11) and the second interface (12), and the first partition (14) has a first through hole (14a). The first partition (14) is adapted to the first valve core (21). The second partition (15) is located in the connection passage between the first interface (11) and the third interface (13), and the second partition (15) has a second through hole (15a). The second partition (15) is adapted to the second valve core (22).

5. The thermostat assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first valve core (21) includes a third housing (211), a sealing ring (212), and a first elastic element (213). The third housing (211) is slidably connected to the second housing (232). The sealing ring (212) is opposite to the first through hole (14a) and connected to the third housing (211). The two ends of the first elastic element (213) are respectively connected to the third housing (211) and the bracket (231).

6. The thermostat assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second housing (232) has a first stepped structure (232b), and the third housing (211) has a second stepped structure (211a). When the second housing (232) is located between the first position and the second position, the first stepped structure (232b) is separated from the second stepped structure (211a). When the second housing (232) is located between the second position and the fourth position, the first stepped structure (232b) abuts against the second stepped structure (211a).

7. The thermostat assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second valve core (22) includes a connecting rod (221), a first seal (222), a second seal (223), a second elastic element (224), and a third elastic element (225); The connecting rod (221) is connected to the side of the second housing (232) away from the opening (232a); The first seal (222) and the second seal (223) are located on both sides of the second through hole (15a) and are slidably connected to the connecting rod (221). The distance between the first seal (222) and the temperature sensing element (23) is smaller than the distance between the second seal (223) and the temperature sensing element (23). The two ends of the second elastic element (224) are respectively connected to the first seal (222) and the second housing (232), and the two ends of the third elastic element (225) are respectively connected to the second seal (223) and the connecting rod (221).

8. The thermostat assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second seal (223) has a plurality of openings (223a) opposite to the second through hole (15a).

9. The thermostat assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature-sensing medium (234) is a temperature-sensing wax.

Images