Valve device

Abstract

A valve device is provided with: a shaft (61); a housing (10) that forms the flow path (F) and has a plurality of openings (151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167); and a first movable disc (30) and a second movable disc (50) that rotate, the plurality of openings include one-side openings (152, 154, 161, 162, 163, 167) and the other-side openings (153, 164, 165, 166), and the housing has one-side partition walls that partition the flow path into a plurality of one-side flow paths (Fi2, Fi4, Fo1, Fo2, Fo3, Fo7) and another-side partition walls (1214) that partition the flow path into a plurality of other-side flow paths (Fi3, Fo4, Fo5, Fo6). The first movable disc rotates to switch to one flow path communicating with the first through holes (34, 341, 342), and the second movable disc rotates to switch to the other flow path communicating with the second through hole (54).

Description

[0001] Cross-references of related applications

[0002] This application is made based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-146167 filed on September 14, 2022, and the contents thereof are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to valve arrangements. Background Art

[0004] Conventionally, there is a known valve device for switching a flow path for a fluid flow (for example, see Patent Document 1). The valve device comprises: a cylindrical housing that forms a flow path for a fluid flow and has three openings; and two sealing disk units that are arranged in a spaced relationship inside the housing and open and close the three openings.

[0005] In the valve device, three openings, namely, a first opening, a second opening, and a third opening, are formed in the order of the first opening, the second opening, and the third opening, separated from each other in the axial direction on the outer periphery of a cylindrical housing. In addition, one of the two sealing disc units of the valve device is arranged between the first opening and the second opening of the three openings, and the other sealing disc unit is arranged between the second opening and the third opening of the three openings. Thus, the flow path inside the housing is divided into three chambers by the two sealing disc units. And, one opening is provided in each of the three chambers.

[0006] In addition, the two sealing disc units respectively include a fixed sealing disc and a rotatable sealing disc. A notch portion for fluid flow is formed in these fixed sealing discs and the rotatable sealing disc. And, if the sealing disc rotates and the barrier portions of the fixed sealing disc and the sealing disc overlap, the fluid can pass through the sealing disc unit.

[0007] The valve device switches the chamber that allows fluid to flow in and out of the three chambers by changing the rotational position of the sealing disk, thereby switching the opening portion through which the fluid flows in and out. Thus, the valve device can switch the flow path of the fluid that flows into the valve device.

[0008] Prior art literature

[0009] Patent Literature

[0010] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent No. 9874284 Summary of the invention

[0011] Here, the inventors have studied a valve device that can switch more flow paths by increasing the number of openings through which fluid can flow in and out. However, in the case of a structure in which an opening is provided in each chamber separated by a sealing disk unit as in the valve device of Patent Document 1, the number of flow paths that can be switched is determined by the number of chambers separated by the sealing disk unit. This is because the chambers separated by the sealing disk unit correspond to the openings one by one.

[0012] Therefore, in order to increase the number of openings, it is necessary to increase the number of chambers partitioned by the sealing disk unit and to increase the axial size of the housing, which increases the number of components of the valve device and also increases the size of the housing.

[0013] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a valve device that can increase the number of openings through which a fluid can flow in and out while suppressing an increase in the number of components and an increase in the size of a housing.

[0014] According to a technical solution of the present disclosure, the valve device comprises: a shaft extending along the axial direction and rotating around a predetermined axial center; a housing forming a flow path for fluid to flow and having a plurality of openings, the plurality of openings being connected to the flow path and functioning as at least one of an inlet for fluid to flow into the flow path and an outlet for fluid to flow out of the flow path; and a first movable disk and a second movable disk arranged in the axial direction in a mutually isolated manner inside the flow path, defining the flow path in the axial direction, and rotating as the shaft rotates; the plurality of openings include a plurality of one-side openings arranged on one side of the axial direction relative to the first movable disk, and a plurality of other-side openings formed on the other side of the axial direction relative to the second movable disk; the housing It has a one-side partition wall and an other-side partition wall, the one-side partition wall divides the flow path on the one side closer to the axial direction than the first movable disk into a plurality of one-side flow paths connected with a plurality of one-side openings, and the other-side partition wall divides the flow path on the other side of the axial direction than the second movable disk into a plurality of other-side flow paths connected with a plurality of other-side openings; the first movable disk has a first through hole formed by penetrating the first movable disk in the axial direction, and rotates with the rotation of the shaft, thereby switching the flow path connected with the plurality of other-side flow paths among the plurality of one-side flow paths; the second movable disk has a second through hole formed by penetrating the second movable disk in the axial direction, and rotates with the rotation of the shaft, thereby switching the flow path connected with the second through hole among the plurality of other-side flow paths.

[0015] Thus, by rotating the first movable disk and switching the one-side flow path connected to the first through hole, the inlet for the fluid to flow into the flow path and the outlet for the fluid to flow out of the flow path can be switched to one of the plurality of one-side openings. In addition, by rotating the second movable disk and switching the other-side flow path connected to the second through hole, the inlet for the fluid to flow into the flow path and the outlet for the fluid to flow out of the flow path can be switched to one of the plurality of other-side openings. According to such a structure, even if there are two movable disks, the number of openings for the fluid to flow in and out can be increased without increasing the size of the housing in the axial direction.

[0016] In addition, the reference numerals in parentheses given to each component etc. represent an example of the correspondence relationship between the component etc. and the specific component etc. described in the embodiment described later. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 This is an external view of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of part III.

[0020] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 IV-IV cross-sectional view.

[0021] Figure 5 It is a top view of the lower fixed plate according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower movable platen according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 It is a bottom view of the lower movable platen according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of part VIII.

[0025] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 IX-IX section view.

[0026] Fig.10 It is a top view of the upper fixed plate according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Fig.11 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the upper movable platen according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Fig.12 It is a top view of the upper movable platen according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Fig.13 It is a diagram for explaining the operation mode of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Fig.14 It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a first modified example of the first embodiment.

[0031] Fig.15 It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a second modified example of the first embodiment.

[0032] Fig.16 It is an external view of a valve device according to a second embodiment.

[0033] Fig.17 This is a valve device according to the second embodiment. Figure 4 .

[0034] Fig.18 It is a top view of the lower fixed plate according to the second embodiment.

[0035] Fig.19 It is a bottom view of the lower movable platen according to the second embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 20 It is a diagram for explaining the operation mode of the valve device according to the second embodiment.

[0037] Fig.21 It is an external view of a valve device according to a third embodiment.

[0038] Fig. 22 This is a valve device according to the third embodiment. Figure 4 .

[0039] Fig.23 It is a top view of the lower fixed plate according to the third embodiment.

[0040] Fig.24 It is a bottom view of the lower movable platen according to the third embodiment.

[0041] Fig.25 It is a diagram for explaining the operation mode of the valve device according to the third embodiment.

[0042] Fig.26 It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0043] Fig. 27 It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a first modified example of the fourth embodiment.

[0044] Fig.28It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a second modified example of the fourth embodiment.

[0045] Fig.29 It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a fifth embodiment.

[0046] Fig.30 It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a first modified example of the fifth embodiment.

[0047] Fig.31 It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a second modified example of the fifth embodiment.

[0048] Fig.32 It is a cross-sectional view of a lower fixed plate according to a sixth embodiment.

[0049] Fig.33 It is a cross-sectional view of a lower movable platen according to the sixth embodiment.

[0050] Fig.34 It is a cross-sectional view of an upper fixed plate according to a sixth embodiment.

[0051] Fig.35 It is a cross-sectional view of an upper movable platen according to a sixth embodiment.

[0052] Fig.36 It is a cross-sectional view of a valve device according to a seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the following embodiments, portions that are identical or equivalent to those described in previous embodiments are sometimes given the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. In addition, in the embodiments, when only a portion of a constituent element is described, the constituent elements described in previous embodiments may be applied to the other portions of the constituent element. In the following embodiments, each embodiment may be partially combined with each other, even if not specifically stated, as long as it does not particularly cause obstacles in the combination.

[0054] (First Embodiment)

[0055] Reference Figures 1 to 13The present embodiment is described. The valve device 1 of the present embodiment is applied to, for example, a fluid circulation system in which a fluid (in this case, cooling water) circulates for adjusting the temperature of the interior of an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle and the temperature of a battery. The fluid circulation system is a system for circulating cooling water to a power source for driving the vehicle, a radiant radiator, a heater core for air conditioning in the interior of the vehicle, and a battery. For example, LLC (Long life coolant) containing ethylene glycol is used as cooling water. The valve device 1 is a device for switching the fluid passage or adjusting the flow rate of cooling water flowing in the fluid circulation system. In the present embodiment, the valve device 1 is constructed as a nine-way valve as an example for description.

[0056] First, the structure of the valve device 1 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the valve device 1 of the present embodiment includes a housing 10, a lower fixed plate 20, a lower movable plate 30, an upper fixed plate 40, an upper movable plate 50, a drive unit 60, a lower rod 70, and an upper rod 75. In addition, the valve device 1 includes a lower torsion spring 80, an upper torsion spring 85, a compression spring 90, and the like. The valve device 1 of the present embodiment is configured as a disc valve that switches the fluid passage of cooling water flowing in the fluid circulation system by rotating the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 integrally with a shaft 61 described later by the drive unit 60.

[0057] Furthermore, the valve device 1 is configured to be able to switch the operation mode of the valve device 1 in order to switch the fluid passage of the cooling water flowing in the fluid circulation system. The operation mode of the valve device 1 is switched by the drive unit 60 .

[0058] The housing 10 constitutes the outer shell of the valve device 1, and a flow path F for fluid to flow is formed inside the housing 10. The housing 10 is a non-rotating member that does not rotate. Specifically, the housing 10 includes a lower housing 11 in the shape of a bottomed cylinder and an upper housing 12 in the shape of a bottomed cylinder connected to the opening side of the lower housing 11. The lower housing 11 and the upper housing 12 are molded by, for example, injection molding in which a resin material is poured into a mold and solidified into a desired shape.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the shaft 61 is inserted from the lower housing 11 to the upper housing 12 and to the driving unit 60 in the housing 10. The housing 10 is provided with the lower housing 11 and the upper housing 12 arranged in a direction in which the axis CL of the shaft 61 extends. The housing 10 also accommodates components such as the lower fixed plate 20, the lower movable plate 30, the upper fixed plate 40, and the upper movable plate 50. The flow path F formed in the housing 10 is formed by partitioning these components.

[0060] In a specific example, the flow path F in the housing 10 is defined by the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 which are arranged in the flow path F to be spaced apart from each other in the direction in which the axis CL of the shaft 61 extends.

[0061] The following, such as Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the direction along the axis CL of the shaft 61 is the axial direction DRa, the direction on one side of the axial direction DRa is the lower side DRa1, and the direction on the opposite side of the lower side DRa1 is the upper side DRa2, so as to explain various structures. The lower side DRa1 is the direction from the upper side shell 12 side toward the lower side shell 11 side on the axial direction DRa.

[0062] In addition, the direction extending radially from the axial direction DRa orthogonal to the axial direction DRa is defined as the radial direction DRr, and the direction around the axial center CL with the axial center CL as the circumferential direction DRc is defined as the rotation direction of the shaft 61 rotated by the driving force supplied from the driving unit 60. Figure 2 The driving unit 60 is omitted. Figure 1 The directions shown are merely examples and do not limit the installation state of the valve device 1 of the present disclosure.

[0063] Furthermore, in the flow path F in the housing 10, the side below the lower movable plate 30 DRa1 is also referred to as the lower flow path Fb, and the side above the upper movable plate 50 DRa2 is also referred to as the upper flow path Fa. Furthermore, in the flow path F in the housing 10, the area between the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 is also referred to as the central flow path Fc. That is, in the present embodiment, the flow path F in the housing 10 is divided into the lower flow path Fb, the central flow path Fc, and the upper flow path Fa by the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50.

[0064] The lower housing 11 is a bottomed cylindrical shape, and has a lower side wall portion 111 surrounding the axis CL, and a lower bottom wall portion 112 forming a bottom surface. In addition, the lower housing 11 forms a part of the flow path F formed by the housing 10. In a specific example, the lower housing 11 forms a central flow path Fc and a lower flow path Fb. In addition, the lower housing 11 is provided with two fluid inlet portions 151, 152 and three fluid outlet portions 161, 162, 163 that are connected to the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path Fb and through which the fluid flows.

[0065] The lower housing 11 accommodates a portion of the upper housing 12, and accommodates the lower fixed plate 20, the lower movable plate 30, the upper fixed plate 40, the upper movable plate 50, the lower rod 70, the upper rod 75, the lower torsion spring 80, etc. In addition, the lower housing 11 accommodates the upper torsion spring 85, the compression spring 90, etc. The lower housing 11 is configured as an integrally molded product in which the lower side wall portion 111 and the lower bottom wall portion 112 are integrally molded. In addition, as Figure 2 As shown, two fluid inlet portions 151 and 152 and three fluid outlet portions 161 , 162 , and 163 are connected to the outer periphery of the lower housing 11 .

[0066] The lower side wall portion 111 is a cylindrical shape that surrounds the flow path F in the circumferential direction DRc, and extends along the axial direction DRa. The lower side wall portion 111 has an O-ring setting portion 1111 on the upper DRa2 side as the opening side, where an O-ring 113 is arranged, and the O-ring 113 blocks the gap between the lower shell 11 and the upper shell 12. The O-ring setting portion 1111 is formed by making the inner diameter of the end portion on the upper DRa2 side of the lower side wall portion 111 larger than other parts. The O-ring 113 is arranged in the O-ring setting portion 1111. In addition, the lower bottom wall portion 112 is connected to the lower DRa1 side of the lower side wall portion 111.

[0067] Although not shown, a receiving groove for receiving a lower protrusion 23 of the lower fixing plate 20 described later is formed inside the lower side wall portion 111. The lower fixing plate 20 may be prevented from rotating by a pin, for example, instead of the lower protrusion 23.

[0068] The two fluid inlet portions 151 and 152 function as inlet ports for allowing fluid to flow into the flow path F in the housing 10. The three fluid outlet portions 161, 162, and 163 function as outlet ports for allowing fluid flowing into the flow path F in the housing 10 to flow out of the valve device 1.

[0069] like Figure 2 As shown in the figure, one of the two fluid inlet portions 151 and 152 is provided on the lower DRa1 side of the lower housing 11, and the other is provided on the upper DRa2 side of the lower housing 11. In contrast, the three fluid outlet portions 161, 162, and 163 are provided on the lower DRa1 side of the lower housing 11. The two fluid inlet portions 151 and 152 and the three fluid outlet portions 161, 162, and 163 are composed of a member formed into a tubular shape through which a fluid can flow.

[0070] In the following description, of the two fluid inlet portions 151 and 152 provided in the lower housing 11, the fluid inlet portion provided in the upper DRa2 side is referred to as the first fluid inlet portion 151, and the fluid inlet portion provided in the lower DRa1 side is referred to as the second fluid inlet portion 152. In addition, the three fluid outlet portions 161, 162, and 163 provided in the lower housing 11 are referred to as the first fluid outlet portion 161, the second fluid outlet portion 162, and the third fluid outlet portion 163, respectively.

[0071] The first fluid inlet 151 and the third fluid outlet 163 are arranged along the axial direction DRa. In addition, the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162, and the third fluid outlet 163 are arranged at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction DRc on the outer periphery of the lower housing 11. In the present embodiment, the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the third fluid outlet 163, and the second fluid outlet 162 are arranged in this order at intervals of approximately 90°. The second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162, and the third fluid outlet 163 are formed on the outer periphery of the lower housing 11 at the lower DRa1 side than the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30.

[0072] The first fluid inlet 151 is connected to the central flow path Fc. In addition, the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162 and the third fluid outlet 163 are connected to the lower flow path Fb. In addition, the configuration of the first fluid inlet 151, the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162 and the third fluid outlet 163 is not limited to this example, but can be appropriately changed. The first fluid inlet 151, the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162 and the third fluid outlet 163 of this embodiment function as openings. Furthermore, the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162 and the third fluid outlet 163 function as one side opening.

[0073] The lower bottom wall portion 112 is a portion where the lower fixing plate 20 is disposed and supports the lower DRa1 side of the shaft 61. Figure 3 As shown, the lower bottom wall portion 112 has a lower setting surface 1121 for placing the lower fixing plate 20 on the upper DRa2 side. In addition, a lower bearing hole 1122 for supporting the shaft 61 is formed in the lower bottom wall portion 112. In addition, a lower gasket groove 1123 is formed in the lower setting surface 1121, and the lower gasket groove 1123 is used to configure the lower gasket 114 for sealing the gap between the lower fixing plate 20 and the lower setting surface 1121.

[0074] The lower setting surface 1121 is formed by extending in a planar shape along the radial direction DRr and the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the lower setting surface 1121 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa and parallel to the radial direction DRr. In addition, the lower setting surface 1121 being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa does not mean that the lower setting surface 1121 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa in a strict sense, but also includes a state that is slightly deviated from the state of being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa due to manufacturing errors, etc.

[0075] The lower side DRa1 of the shaft 61 is fitted into the lower bearing hole 1122 , so that the shaft 61 is rotatably supported.

[0076] The lower gasket 114 is, for example, made of an elastically deformable rubber member, and is, for example, formed in a circular ring shape. Specifically, the lower gasket 114 is formed in a shape corresponding to the lower fixed disk 20, and has holes corresponding to four flow holes 252, 261, 262, and 263 formed in the lower fixed disk 20 described later. The lower gasket 114 is embedded in the lower gasket groove 1123 between the lower fixed disk 20 and the lower setting surface 1121. In the present embodiment, the lower gasket 114 functions as a first sealing member.

[0077] Furthermore, the lower bottom wall 112 is provided with a step difference to match the four flow holes 252, 261, 262, 263 of the lower fixed plate 20. That is, the lower bottom wall 112 is farther away from the upper housing 12 than the lower bottom wall 112 which is not opposite to the four flow holes 252, 261, 262, 263. Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, four flow paths Fi2 , Fo1 , Fo2 , and Fo3 are formed in the lower bottom wall portion 112 .

[0078] Specifically, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, which are respectively connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152, the first fluid outlet portion 161, the second fluid outlet portion 162, and the third fluid outlet portion 163, are formed on the lower bottom wall portion 112. The second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are formed on the lower DRa1 side relative to the lower fixed plate 20. In addition, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are separated by four lower partition walls 1124 respectively provided on the lower bottom wall portion 112 of the lower shell 11.

[0079] In other words, in the flow path F in the housing 10, the lower flow path Fb is divided into the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3 by the four lower partition walls 1124. In the present embodiment, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the second outlet flow path Fo2, the third outlet flow path Fo3, and the first outlet flow path Fo1 are arranged in this order along the circumferential direction DRc.

[0080] The cross section of the second inlet flow path Fi2 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is roughly fan-shaped, and the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be different from the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the axial direction DRa of the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Specifically, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second inlet flow path Fi2 perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be smaller than the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the axial direction DRa of the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Hereinafter, the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the axial direction DRa in each flow path is also referred to as the flow path cross-sectional area.

[0081] In addition, the second outlet flow path Fo2 has a substantially fan-shaped cross section in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa, and the flow path cross-sectional area is formed to be different from the flow path cross-sectional areas of the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Specifically, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second outlet flow path Fo2 is formed to be smaller than the flow path cross-sectional areas of the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the third outlet flow path Fo3.

[0082] Furthermore, the first outlet flow passage Fo1 and the third outlet flow passage Fo3 have substantially fan-shaped cross sections in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa, and the flow passage cross-sectional areas are formed to be substantially the same size.

[0083] The wall thickness of the four lower partition walls 1124 is constant throughout the radial direction DRr. In addition, the size of the four lower partition walls 1124 is constant throughout the axial direction DRa.

[0084] The four lower partition walls 1124 are respectively arranged at positions corresponding to the four lower partitions 24 described later of the lower fixed disk 20. Furthermore, the ends of the four lower partition walls 1124 on the lower fixed disk 20 side are respectively fixed in a state consistent with the orientation of the four lower partitions 24 of the lower fixed disk 20. Therefore, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are respectively connected to the four flow holes 252, 261, 262, 263 of the lower fixed disk 20. In the present embodiment, the four lower partition walls 1124 function as one side partition walls, and the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 separated by the four lower partition walls 1124 function as one side flow paths.

[0085] like Figure 1 As shown, a lower fixing plate 20 is fixed in the lower housing 11. In a specific example, Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the lower fixed plate 20 is arranged between the lower setting surface 1121 of the lower housing 11 and the lower movable plate 30. The lower fixed plate 20 is a sealing member that seals the gap between the lower housing 11 and the lower movable plate 30. The lower fixed plate 20 is formed in a disk shape and arranged in such a manner that the central axis coincides with the axis CL.

[0086] The lower fixed plate 20 has a lower sealing surface 21 that contacts the lower movable plate 30, and a lower supporting surface 28 that contacts the lower setting surface 1121. Figure 5 As shown, a lower fixing hole 22 for inserting the shaft 61 is formed substantially at the center of the lower fixing plate 20 .

[0087] The lower sealing surface 21 and the lower supporting surface 28 are formed by extending in a planar shape along the radial direction DRr and the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the lower sealing surface 21 and the lower supporting surface 28 are orthogonal to the axial direction DRa and parallel to the radial direction DRr. In addition, the lower sealing surface 21 and the lower supporting surface 28 are orthogonal to the axial direction DRa, which does not mean that the lower sealing surface 21 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa in a strict sense. Moreover, the lower sealing surface 21 and the lower supporting surface 28 are orthogonal to the axial direction DRa, which also includes a state that is slightly deviated from the state of being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa due to manufacturing errors, etc.

[0088] In addition, the lower fixing plate 20 is formed of a material having a smaller linear expansion coefficient, better wear resistance, and a smaller friction coefficient than the material constituting the housing 10. For example, the lower fixing plate 20 is formed of a high-hardness material having a higher hardness than the housing 10. Specifically, the lower fixing plate 20 is formed of at least one of phenol, resin, and ceramic. The lower fixing plate 20 of the present embodiment is formed of ceramic.

[0089] In addition, the lower fixed plate 20 may be formed of a material having a smaller linear expansion coefficient and better wear resistance than the material of the housing 10, such as ceramic, only at the portion forming the lower sealing surface 21 on which the lower movable plate 30 slides. In addition, the lower fixed plate 20 may be composed of a plurality of components.

[0090] In addition, the lower fixed disk 20 is arranged in the flow path F of the housing 10 so as not to rotate relatively in the circumferential direction DRc. Figure 5 As shown, the lower fixing plate 20 has a lower protrusion 23 protruding outward in the radial direction DRr. The lower fixing plate 20 is embedded in a receiving groove (not shown) formed in the inner circumference of the lower side wall portion 111 through the lower protrusion 23, so that it cannot rotate in the circumferential direction DRc as the shaft 61 rotates.

[0091] In addition, the lower fixed disk 20 of the present embodiment has four flow holes 252, 261, 262, 263 penetrating in the axial direction DRa, and four lower partitions 24 respectively provided between the four flow holes 252, 261, 262, 263. The four flow holes 252, 261, 262, 263 are formed to penetrate the lower fixed disk 20 in the axial direction DRa, and the fluid can pass through. The four flow holes 252, 261, 262, 263 and the four lower partitions 24 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction DRc over the entire circumference of the lower fixed disk 20. The four flow holes 252, 261, 262, 263 are formed in a substantially fan-shaped cross section in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa. In the following description, the four flow holes 252, 261, 262, and 263 are respectively referred to as the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In the present embodiment, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, and the second outlet flow hole 262 are arranged in this order along the circumferential direction DRc.

[0092] The second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263 correspond to the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Specifically, the second inlet flow hole 252 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second inlet flow path Fi2, and is connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2. The first outlet flow hole 261 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the first outlet flow path Fo1, and is connected to the first fluid outlet portion 161 via the first outlet flow path Fo1. The second outlet flow hole 262 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second outlet flow path Fo2, and is connected to the second fluid outlet portion 162 via the second outlet flow path Fo2. The third outlet flow hole 263 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the third outlet flow path Fo3 and communicates with the third fluid outlet portion 163 via the third outlet flow path Fo3. The second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263 of this embodiment function as first flow path holes.

[0093] like Figure 3 As shown, the lower movable plate 30 is disposed in the lower housing 11 and is in surface contact with the lower sealing surface 21 of the lower fixed plate 20. Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the lower movable platen 30 of the present embodiment is formed in a disk shape having an outer diameter substantially the same as that of the lower fixed platen 20 , and is arranged so that the central axis coincides with the axis CL.

[0094] The lower movable platen 30 has a lower sliding surface 31 that slides with the lower fixed platen 20. The lower movable platen 30 has a lower movable hole 32 formed substantially in the center thereof for inserting the shaft 61, and two lower press-fit grooves 33 for press-fitting the lower rod 70 described later.

[0095] The lower sliding surface 31 is formed by extending in a planar shape along the radial direction DRr and the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the lower sliding surface 31 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa and parallel to the radial direction DRr. In addition, the lower sliding surface 31 being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa does not mean that the lower sliding surface 31 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa in a strict sense, but also includes a state that is slightly deviated from the state of being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa due to manufacturing errors, etc.

[0096] In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is formed of a material having a smaller linear expansion coefficient, better wear resistance, and a smaller friction coefficient than the material constituting the housing 10, similarly to the lower fixed plate 20. For example, the lower movable plate 30 is formed of a high-hardness material having a higher hardness than the housing 10. Specifically, the lower movable plate 30 is formed of at least one of phenol, resin, and ceramic. The lower movable plate 30 of this embodiment is formed of the same material as the lower fixed plate 20, namely, ceramic.

[0097] In addition, the lower movable platen 30 may be formed of only the portion forming the lower sliding surface 31 on which the lower fixed platen 20 slides, using a material such as ceramic having a smaller linear expansion coefficient and better wear resistance than the constituent material of the housing 10. In addition, the lower movable platen 30 may be composed of a combination of a plurality of constituent parts.

[0098] The lower movable plate 30 has an outer diameter formed smaller than the inner diameter of the lower housing 11 and is provided to be rotatable about the axis CL of the shaft 61. The lower movable plate 30 has a lower flow path through hole 34 that penetrates the lower movable plate 30 in the axial direction DRa, and a lower flow path communication hole 35 that does not penetrate the lower movable plate 30.

[0099] like Figure 7 As shown, the cross-section of the lower flow path through hole 34 and the lower flow path communicating hole 35 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be approximately fan-shaped. In addition, the cross-section of the lower flow path through hole 34 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be smaller than that of the lower flow path communicating hole 35. In a specific example, the cross-section of the lower flow path through hole 34 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be less than 1 / 2 of that of the lower flow path communicating hole 35.

[0100] The lower flow path through hole 34 is formed to penetrate the lower movable plate 30 so that the fluid can pass therethrough. In addition, the lower flow path through hole 34 is connected to one of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263 of the lower fixed plate 20 at its lower DRa1 side. Furthermore, the lower flow path through hole 34 is connected to the central flow path Fc at its upper DRa2 side.

[0101] The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the lower flow path through hole 34 is formed to be slightly larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second inlet flow hole 252 of the lower fixed disk 20, and is formed to be a size that can cover the entirety of the second inlet flow hole 252. In contrast, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the lower flow path through hole 34 is formed to be smaller than the flow path cross-sectional areas of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263 of the lower fixed disk 20. Furthermore, the lower flow path through hole 34 is formed to be a size that cannot cover the entirety of each of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0102] Furthermore, the lower flow path through hole 34 is formed so as to be able to communicate with one or two of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263 according to the rotational position of the lower movable plate 30. Specifically, when the lower flow path through hole 34 overlaps with only one of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates only with the overlapping flow hole. In addition, when the lower flow path through hole 34 overlaps with two of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates with the two flow holes that are overlapped.

[0103] In other words, the lower movable plate 30 has the lower flow passage through-hole 34 which can communicate with at least one of the second inlet flow passage Fi2 , the first outlet flow passage Fo1 , the second outlet flow passage Fo2 , and the third outlet flow passage Fo3 by rotating with the rotation of the shaft 61 .

[0104] The lower flow path communication hole 35 is formed by recessing a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 on the side that slides with the lower fixed plate 20. That is, the lower flow path communication hole 35 is formed so as not to penetrate the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 is formed so that its flow path cross-sectional area is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​each of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. And, the lower flow path communication hole 35 is sized to cover the entirety of each of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0105] In the present embodiment, the lower flow path communication hole 35 is formed to have a size capable of simultaneously covering at least a portion of any two or three of the second inlet flow hole 252 , the first outlet flow hole 261 , the second outlet flow hole 262 , and the third outlet flow hole 263 .

[0106] Furthermore, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 is formed so as to be able to connect two or three of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. Specifically, when the lower flow path connecting hole 35 overlaps two of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, the two flow holes that are crossed are connected. In addition, when the lower flow path connecting hole 35 overlaps three of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263, the three flow holes that are crossed are connected. As a result, the flow holes that are connected through the lower flow path connecting hole 35 are connected to each other.

[0107] In other words, the lower movable plate 30 has the lower flow passage communication hole 35 that communicates with a plurality of the second inlet flow passage Fi2 , the first outlet flow passage Fo1 , the second outlet flow passage Fo2 , and the third outlet flow passage Fo3 by rotating with the rotation of the shaft 61 .

[0108] Therefore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with one or two of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, in the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the flow path corresponding to the flow hole communicated with itself. Thus, in the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the flow path communicated with itself and the central flow path Fc.

[0109] In addition, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 connects two or three of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. And, in the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 connects with the flow paths corresponding to the two or three flow holes connected to it. Thus, in the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 connects the two or three flow paths connected to it.

[0110] In this embodiment, the rotation range of the lower movable plate 30 is preset, and the lower flow path through hole 34 can communicate with one or two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower flow path through hole 34 cannot communicate with the second inlet flow hole 252. In other words, the lower flow path through hole 34 cannot communicate with the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2.

[0111] In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 can communicate with the second inlet flow hole 252 and communicate with at least one of the first outlet flow hole 261 and the second outlet flow hole 262. Thus, the lower flow path communication hole 35 can make the second inlet flow hole 252 communicate with one of the first outlet flow hole 261 and the second outlet flow hole 262. In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 cannot communicate with the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0112] In the present embodiment, the lower fixed platen 20 functions as a first fixed platen, and the lower movable platen 30 functions as a first movable platen.

[0113] The upper housing 12 is a component that covers the opening side of the lower housing 11. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the upper housing 12 is a bottomed cylindrical shape, and has an upper bottom wall portion 121 forming a bottom surface, and a cover portion 122 closing the lower housing 11. In addition, the upper housing 12 forms a part of the flow path F formed by the housing 10. In a specific example, the upper housing 12 forms an upper flow path Fa. In addition, the upper housing 12 is provided with a fluid inlet portion 153 and three fluid outlet portions 164, 165, 166 that communicate with the upper flow path Fa and allow fluid to flow.

[0114] The upper housing 12 accommodates the upper fixed platen 40 and a part of the upper movable platen 50. The upper bottom wall portion 121 and the cover portion 122 are formed as an integrally molded product.

[0115] The upper bottom wall 121 is a cylindrical shape that surrounds the upper flow path Fa in the circumferential direction DRc and extends along the axial direction DRa. The upper bottom wall 121 is formed so that its outer diameter is smaller than the outer diameter of the lower side wall 111. In addition, the upper bottom wall 121 is connected to the cover 122 on the lower DRa1 side. In addition, a fluid inlet 153 and three fluid outlets 164, 165, and 166 are connected to the outer periphery of the upper bottom wall 121.

[0116] The fluid inlet 153 is an inlet port that functions as an inlet for allowing fluid to flow into the flow path F in the housing 10. The three fluid outlets 164, 165, 166 are outlet ports that function as outlets for allowing fluid flowing into the flow path F in the housing 10 to flow out of the valve device 1.

[0117] The one fluid inlet 153 and the three fluid outlets 164, 165, 166 are formed of a member formed into a tubular shape through which the fluid can flow. In the following description, the one fluid inlet 153 provided in the upper housing 12 is referred to as the third fluid inlet 153, and the three fluid outlets 164, 165, 166 are referred to as the fourth fluid outlet 164, the fifth fluid outlet 165, and the sixth fluid outlet 166, respectively.

[0118] like Figure 2 As shown, the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 is arranged along the axial direction DRa with the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the third fluid outlet portion 163 provided in the lower housing 11. In addition, the third fluid inlet portion 153, the fourth fluid outlet portion 164, the fifth fluid outlet portion 165 and the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 are arranged along the circumferential direction DRc at a predetermined interval on the outer periphery of the upper housing 12. In the present embodiment, the third fluid inlet portion 153, the fifth fluid outlet portion 165, the fourth fluid outlet portion 164 and the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 are arranged in this order at uneven intervals. The third fluid inlet portion 153, the fifth fluid outlet portion 165, the fourth fluid outlet portion 164 and the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 are formed on the outer periphery of the upper housing 12 at the upper DRa2 side than the upper fixed plate 40 and the upper movable plate 50.

[0119] The third fluid inlet 153, the fourth fluid outlet 164, the fifth fluid outlet 165, and the sixth fluid outlet 166 are connected to the upper flow path Fa. In addition, the configuration of the third fluid inlet 153, the fourth fluid outlet 164, the fifth fluid outlet 165, and the sixth fluid outlet 166 is not limited to this example, but can be appropriately changed. The third fluid inlet 153, the fourth fluid outlet 164, the fifth fluid outlet 165, and the sixth fluid outlet 166 of this embodiment are openings, and function as the other side opening.

[0120] The cover 122 is a member that covers the opening of the lower housing 11 by being embedded in the opening side of the lower housing 11. The cover 122 includes a plate 1221 and a rib 1222. The plate 1221 is formed in a circular ring shape extending from the outer peripheral surface of the upper bottom wall 121 toward the outer side in the radial direction DRr. In addition, the outer diameter of the plate 1221 increases in a step-like manner from the lower DRa1 side toward the upper DRa2 side.

[0121] The rib 1222 is a portion of the lid 122 on the opening side of the lower case 11. The rib 1222 is cylindrical in shape and has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the lower side wall 111, so as to be inserted from the opening side of the lower case 11.

[0122] The rib 1222 is provided so as to protrude from the surface on the lower DRa1 side of the plate portion 1221 toward the lower DRa1. The upper fixing plate 40 is disposed opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the rib 1222. The O-ring 113 is sandwiched between the inner peripheral surface of the lower housing 11 and the outer peripheral surface of the rib 1222 of the upper housing 12. The O-ring 113 is made of polyurethane rubber, which is an annular elastic body, and is configured to be compressed and elastically deformable when sandwiched between the lower side wall portion 111 and the rib 1222.

[0123] Although not shown, a receiving groove is formed inside the rib 1222 to receive an upper protrusion 43 of the upper fixing plate 40 described later. The upper fixing plate 40 may be prevented from rotating by a pin, for example, instead of the upper protrusion 43.

[0124] The upper bottom wall portion 121 is a portion where the upper fixing plate 40 is disposed and supports the upper DRa2 side of the shaft 61. Figure 8 As shown, the upper bottom wall portion 121 has an upper setting surface 1211 for placing the upper fixing plate 40 on the lower DRa1 side. In addition, an upper bearing hole 1212 for supporting the shaft 61 is formed in the upper bottom wall portion 121. In addition, an upper gasket groove 1213 is formed in the upper setting surface 1211, and the upper gasket 123 for sealing the gap between the upper fixing plate 40 and the upper setting surface 1211 is disposed.

[0125] The upper setting surface 1211 is formed by extending in a planar shape along the radial direction DRr and the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the upper setting surface 1211 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa and parallel to the radial direction DRr. In addition, the upper setting surface 1211 being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa does not mean that the upper setting surface 1211 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa in a strict sense, but also includes a state that is slightly deviated from the state of being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa due to manufacturing errors, etc.

[0126] The upper DRa2 side of the shaft 61 is fitted into the upper bearing hole 1212 , so that the shaft 61 is rotatably supported.

[0127] The upper gasket 123 is, for example, made of an elastically deformable rubber member, and is, for example, formed into a circular ring shape. Specifically, the upper gasket 123 is formed into a shape corresponding to the upper fixed disk 40, and has holes corresponding to four flow holes 453, 464, 465, and 466 formed in the upper fixed disk 40 described later. The upper gasket 123 is embedded in the upper gasket groove 1213 between the upper fixed disk 40 and the upper setting surface 1211. In the present embodiment, the upper gasket 123 functions as a second sealing member.

[0128] Furthermore, the upper bottom wall 121 is provided with a step difference to match the four flow holes 453, 464, 465, 466 of the upper fixed plate 40. That is, the upper bottom wall 121 is farther away from the lower housing 11 than the portion not facing the four flow holes 453, 464, 465, 466. Figure 1 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, four flow paths Fi3 , Fo4 , Fo5 , and Fo6 are formed in the upper bottom wall portion 121 .

[0129] Specifically, the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6, which are respectively connected to the third fluid inlet portion 153, the fourth fluid outlet portion 164, the fifth fluid outlet portion 165, and the sixth fluid outlet portion 166, are formed on the upper bottom wall portion 121. The third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 are formed on the upper DRa2 side relative to the upper fixed plate 40. In addition, the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 are respectively separated by four upper partition walls 1214 provided on the upper bottom wall portion 121 of the upper shell 12.

[0130] In other words, in the flow path F in the housing 10, the upper flow path Fa is divided into a third inlet flow path Fi3, a fourth outlet flow path Fo4, a fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and a sixth outlet flow path Fo6 by four upper partition walls 1214. In the present embodiment, the third inlet flow path Fi3, the sixth outlet flow path Fo6, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, and the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 are arranged in this order along the circumferential direction DRc.

[0131] The third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 have a substantially fan-shaped cross section in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa, and the flow path cross-sectional areas are formed to be different from each other. Specifically, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the third inlet flow path Fi3, the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 and the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 are formed so that the flow path cross-sectional areas increase in this order.

[0132] like Fig. 9 As shown, the four upper partition walls 1214 have a constant wall thickness throughout the radial direction DRr. In addition, the four upper partition walls 1214 have a constant size throughout the axial direction DRa.

[0133] The four upper partition walls 1214 are respectively arranged at positions corresponding to the four upper partitions 44 described later of the upper fixed disk 40. Furthermore, the ends of the four upper partition walls 1214 on the upper fixed disk 40 side are respectively fixed in a state consistent with the orientation of the four upper partitions 44 of the upper fixed disk 40. Therefore, the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 are respectively connected to the four flow holes 453, 464, 465, 466 of the upper fixed disk 40. In the present embodiment, the four upper partition walls 1214 function as the other side partition walls, and the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 divided by the four upper partition walls 1214 function as the other side flow paths.

[0134] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , an upper fixed plate 40 is fixed in the upper housing 12. In a specific example, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 8 As shown, the upper fixed plate 40 is arranged between the upper setting surface 1211 of the upper housing 12 and the upper movable plate 50. The upper fixed plate 40 is a sealing member that seals the gap between the upper housing 12 and the upper movable plate 50. The upper fixed plate 40 is formed in a disk shape and arranged in such a manner that the central axis coincides with the axis CL.

[0135] The upper fixed plate 40 has an upper sealing surface 41 that contacts the upper movable plate 50 and an upper supporting surface 48 that contacts the upper setting surface 1211. Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , an upper fixing hole 42 through which the shaft 61 is inserted is formed substantially at the center of the upper fixing plate 40. The outer diameter of the upper fixing plate 40 is formed to be larger than the outer diameter of the lower fixing plate 20. In addition, the inner diameter of the upper fixing hole 42 is formed to be larger than that of the lower fixing hole 22. This is because the portion of the shaft 61 inserted into the upper fixing plate 40 is larger than the portion inserted into the lower fixing plate 20.

[0136] The upper sealing surface 41 and the upper supporting surface 48 are formed by extending in a planar shape along the radial direction DRr and the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the upper sealing surface 41 and the upper supporting surface 48 are orthogonal to the axial direction DRa and parallel to the radial direction DRr. In addition, the upper sealing surface 41 and the upper supporting surface 48 being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa do not refer to the state in which the upper sealing surface 41 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa in a strict sense. Furthermore, the upper sealing surface 41 and the upper supporting surface 48 being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa also include a state in which they deviate slightly from the state of being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa due to manufacturing errors, etc.

[0137] In addition, the upper fixing plate 40 is formed of a material having a smaller linear expansion coefficient, better wear resistance, and a smaller friction coefficient than the material constituting the housing 10, similarly to the lower fixing plate 20. For example, the upper fixing plate 40 is formed of a high-hardness material having a higher hardness than the housing 10. Specifically, the upper fixing plate 40 is formed of at least one of phenol, resin, and ceramic. The upper fixing plate 40 of the present embodiment is formed of ceramic.

[0138] In addition, the upper fixed plate 40 may be formed only at the portion forming the upper sealing surface 41 on which the upper movable plate 50 slides, using a material such as ceramics having a smaller linear expansion coefficient and better wear resistance than the constituent material of the housing 10. In addition, the upper fixed plate 40 may be composed of a plurality of constituent parts.

[0139] In addition, the upper fixed disk 40 is arranged so as not to rotate relatively in the circumferential direction DRc within the flow path F of the housing 10. Fig.10 As shown, the upper fixing plate 40 has an upper protrusion 43 protruding outward in the radial direction DRr. The upper fixing plate 40 is fitted into a receiving groove (not shown) formed on the inner circumference of the rib 1222 by the upper protrusion 43, and cannot rotate in the circumferential direction DRc as the shaft 61 rotates.

[0140] In addition, the upper fixed disk 40 of the present embodiment has four flow holes 453, 464, 465, 466 penetrating in the axial direction DRa and four upper partitions 44 respectively provided between the four flow holes 453, 464, 465, 466. The four flow holes 453, 464, 465, 466 are formed to penetrate the upper fixed disk 40 in the axial direction DRa, and the fluid can pass through. The four flow holes 453, 464, 465, 466 and the four upper partitions 44 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction DRc over the entire circumference of the upper fixed disk 40. The four flow holes 453, 464, 465, 466 are formed in a substantially fan-shaped cross section in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa. In the following description, the four flow holes 453, 464, 465, and 466 are respectively referred to as the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. In the present embodiment, the third inlet flow hole 453, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 are arranged in this order along the circumferential direction DRc.

[0141] The third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465 and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 correspond to the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 in the upper flow path Fa. Specifically, the third inlet flow hole 453 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the third inlet flow path Fi3, and is connected to the third fluid inlet portion 153 via the third inlet flow path Fi3. The fourth outlet flow hole 464 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, and is connected to the fourth fluid outlet portion 164 via the fourth outlet flow path Fo4. The fifth outlet flow hole 465 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and is connected to the fifth fluid outlet portion 165 via the fifth outlet flow path Fo5. The sixth outlet flow hole 466 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 and communicates with the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 via the sixth outlet flow path Fo6. The third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465 and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 of this embodiment function as second flow path holes.

[0142] like Figure 8 As shown, a part of the upper movable plate 50 is disposed in the upper housing 12 and is arranged to be rotatable about the axis CL of the shaft 61. The upper movable plate 50 is in surface contact with the upper sealing surface 41 of the upper fixed plate 40. Figure 8 and Fig.11As shown, the upper movable platen 50 of the present embodiment is formed in a disk shape having an outer diameter substantially the same as that of the upper fixed platen 40 , and is arranged so that the central axis coincides with the axis CL.

[0143] The upper movable plate 50 has an upper sliding surface 51 that slides with the upper fixed plate 40. In addition, the upper movable plate 50 has an upper movable hole 52 through which the shaft 61 is inserted, and two upper press-fit grooves 53 into which the upper rod 75 described later is press-fitted. The upper movable plate 50 is formed to have an outer diameter larger than that of the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the upper movable hole 52 is formed to have an inner diameter larger than that of the lower movable hole 32.

[0144] The upper sliding surface 51 is formed by extending in a planar shape along the radial direction DRr and the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the upper sliding surface 51 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa and parallel to the radial direction DRr. In addition, the upper sliding surface 51 being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa does not mean that the upper sliding surface 51 is orthogonal to the axial direction DRa in a strict sense, but also includes a state that is slightly offset from the state of being orthogonal to the axial direction DRa due to manufacturing errors or the like.

[0145] In addition, the upper movable plate 50 is formed of a material having a smaller linear expansion coefficient than the material constituting the housing 10, better wear resistance, and a smaller friction coefficient, similarly to the upper fixed plate 40. For example, the upper movable plate 50 is formed of a high-hardness material having a higher hardness than the housing 10. Specifically, the upper movable plate 50 is formed of at least one of phenol, resin, and ceramic. The upper movable plate 50 of this embodiment is formed of ceramic, which is the same material as the upper fixed plate 40.

[0146] In addition, the upper movable platen 50 may be formed only at the portion forming the upper sliding surface 51 on which the upper fixed platen 40 slides, using a material such as ceramics having a smaller linear expansion coefficient and better wear resistance than the constituent material of the housing 10. In addition, the upper movable platen 50 may be composed of a plurality of constituent parts.

[0147] The upper movable plate 50 has an outer diameter formed smaller than the inner diameter of the rib 1222 and is provided to be rotatable about the axis CL of the shaft 61. The upper movable plate 50 has an upper flow path through hole 54 that penetrates the upper movable plate 50 in the axial direction DRa, and an upper flow path communication hole 55 that does not penetrate the upper movable plate 50.

[0148] The cross-section of the upper flow path through hole 54 and the upper flow path communicating hole 55 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be substantially fan-shaped. In addition, the cross-section of the upper flow path through hole 54 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be smaller than that of the upper flow path communicating hole 55. In a specific example, the cross-section of the upper flow path through hole 54 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be less than 1 / 2 of that of the upper flow path communicating hole 55.

[0149] The upper flow path through hole 54 is formed to penetrate the upper movable plate 50 so that the fluid can pass therethrough. In addition, the upper flow path through hole 54 is connected to any of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 of the upper fixed plate 40 at its upper DRa2 side. Furthermore, the upper flow path through hole 54 is connected to the central flow path Fc at its lower DRa1 side.

[0150] The upper flow path through hole 54 is formed to have a flow path cross-sectional area slightly larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth outlet flow hole 464, and is a size that can cover the entirety of the fourth outlet flow hole 464. In contrast, the upper flow path through hole 54 is formed to have a flow path cross-sectional area smaller than the flow path cross-sectional areas of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. Furthermore, the upper flow path through hole 54 is a size that cannot cover the entirety of each of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466.

[0151] Furthermore, the upper flow path through hole 54 is formed so as to be able to communicate with one or two of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466, depending on the rotational position of the upper movable plate 50. Specifically, when the upper flow path through hole 54 overlaps with only one of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates only with the overlapping flow hole. In addition, when the upper flow path through hole 54 overlaps with two of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates with the two flow holes that are crossed.

[0152] In other words, the upper movable plate 50 has the upper flow passage through-hole 54 that communicates with at least one of the third inlet flow passage Fi3 , the fourth outlet flow passage Fo4 , the fifth outlet flow passage Fo5 , and the sixth outlet flow passage Fo6 by rotating with the rotation of the shaft 61 .

[0153] The upper flow path connecting hole 55 is formed by recessing a portion of the upper sliding surface 51 on the side that slides with the upper fixed plate 40. That is, the upper flow path connecting hole 55 is formed so as not to penetrate the upper movable plate 50. In addition, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the upper flow path connecting hole 55 is formed to be larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​each of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. And the upper flow path connecting hole 55 is sized to cover the entirety of each of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466.

[0154] In the present embodiment, the upper flow path communication hole 55 is formed to have a size capable of simultaneously covering at least a portion of any two or three of the third inlet flow hole 453 , the fourth outlet flow hole 464 , the fifth outlet flow hole 465 , and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 .

[0155] Furthermore, the upper flow path connecting hole 55 is formed so as to connect two or three of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. Specifically, when the upper flow path connecting hole 55 overlaps two of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 in the axial direction DRa, the two flow holes connected are connected. In addition, when the upper flow path connecting hole 55 overlaps three of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 in the axial direction DRa, the three flow holes connected are connected. Thus, the flow holes connected to the upper flow path connecting hole 55 among the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 are connected to each other.

[0156] In other words, the upper movable plate 50 has the upper flow passage communication hole 55 that communicates with a plurality of the third inlet flow passage Fi3 , the fourth outlet flow passage Fo4 , the fifth outlet flow passage Fo5 , and the sixth outlet flow passage Fo6 by rotating with the rotation of the shaft 61 .

[0157] Therefore, when the upper movable plate 50 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the upper flow path through hole 54 communicates with one or two of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. Furthermore, in the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the flow path corresponding to the flow hole communicated with itself. Thus, in the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6, the upper flow path through hole 54 communicates with the flow path communicated with itself and the central flow path Fc.

[0158] In addition, when the upper movable plate 50 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the upper flow path connecting hole 55 is connected to two or three of the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. In addition, in the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 is connected to the flow paths connected to the two or three flow holes connected to it. Thus, in the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6, the upper flow path connecting hole 55 connects the two or three flow paths connected to it to each other.

[0159] In this embodiment, the rotation range of the upper movable plate 50 is preset, and the upper flow path through hole 54 can communicate with one or two of the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. In addition, the upper flow path through hole 54 cannot communicate with the third inlet flow hole 453. That is, the upper flow path through hole 54 cannot communicate with the third fluid inlet portion 153 via the third inlet flow path Fi3.

[0160] In addition, the upper flow path communication hole 55 can communicate with the third inlet flow hole 453 and communicate with at least one of the fifth outlet flow hole 465 and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. Thus, the upper flow path communication hole 55 can communicate with the third inlet flow hole 453 and one of the fifth outlet flow hole 465 and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. In addition, the upper flow path communication hole 55 cannot communicate with the fourth outlet flow hole 464.

[0161] In the present embodiment, the upper fixed platen 40 functions as a second fixed platen, and the upper movable platen 50 functions as a second movable platen.

[0162] Back to Figure 1, the drive unit 60 is arranged on the upper DRa2 side of the upper housing 12. The drive unit 60 is a device for outputting a rotational force for rotating the shaft 61. The drive unit 60 has a shaft 61, a motor (not shown) as a drive source for rotating the shaft 61, and a gear unit (not shown) for transmitting the output of the motor to the shaft 61. The motor can be, for example, a servo motor, a stepping motor, or a brushless motor. The gear unit can be, for example, a gear mechanism unit including a helical gear or a spur gear. Although not shown in the figure, the motor rotates according to a control signal from a control unit electrically connected to the motor.

[0163] The control unit is a computer having a non-transient physical storage medium, i.e., a memory, and a processor. The control unit executes a computer program stored in the memory, and performs various control processes according to the computer program. The control unit executes the computer program stored in the memory, and sends a control signal to the valve device 1 to change the rotation position of the shaft 61. The operation mode of the valve device 1 is switched based on the control signal sent from the control unit. The details of the operation mode will be described later.

[0164] The shaft 61 is a rotating shaft that rotates around the axis CL by the rotational force output by the driving unit 60. The shaft 61 extends along the axis direction DRa. Both sides of the shaft 61 in the axis direction DRa are supported by the housing 10 so as to be rotatable. Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, the lower DRa1 side of the shaft 61 is rotatably supported by the lower bearing hole 1122 of the lower housing 11, and the upper DRa2 side is rotatably supported by the upper bearing hole 1212 of the upper housing 12. That is, the shaft 61 has a structure with both ends supported.

[0165] The shaft 61 is rotatably supported on the lower DRa1 side by a bearing (not shown) provided in the lower bearing hole 1122, and on the upper DRa2 side by a bearing (not shown) provided in the upper bearing hole 1212. These bearings may be sliding bearings, ball bearings, or the like.

[0166] The shaft 61 passes through the lower fixed plate 20, the lower movable plate 30, the upper fixed plate 40, and the upper movable plate 50, and is rotatably supported relative to the lower housing 11 and the upper housing 12. The end of the shaft 61 on the upper DRa2 side is connected to the gear portion of the driving unit 60. Thus, the output of the motor is transmitted to the shaft 61 via the gear portion.

[0167] The shaft 61 has a lower axis portion 611, an upper axis portion 612 and a flange portion 613. These lower axis portion 611, upper axis portion 612 and flange portion 613 are integrally formed of metal parts, for example, and are formed so as to be able to rotate integrally by the rotational force output by the motor of the drive unit 60. The lower axis portion 611 and the upper axis portion 612 are connected in this order from the lower DRa1 side toward the upper DRa2 side. The outer diameter of the lower axis portion 611 is formed to be smaller than that of the upper axis portion 612. In addition, the flange portion 613 is formed at the end of the upper axis portion 612 on the lower DRa1 side.

[0168] The lower shaft portion 611 is a rod-shaped member extending along the axial direction DRa, and is inserted into the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the lower shaft portion 611 is formed to have an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the lower fixed hole 22 of the lower fixed plate 20 and the inner diameter of the lower movable hole 32 of the lower movable plate 30, and is not directly connected to the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30. In other words, the lower shaft portion 611 is not directly fixed to the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30. Therefore, when the lower shaft portion 611 rotates, the rotational force of the shaft 61 is not directly transmitted to the lower movable plate 30 by the lower shaft portion 611.

[0169] In this embodiment, a lower rod 70 and a lower torsion spring 80 are provided in the lower housing 11 for transmitting the rotational force of the shaft 61 to the lower movable plate 30. The lower movable plate 30 is connected to the lower shaft portion 611 via the lower rod 70 and the lower torsion spring 80. The lower torsion spring 80 is arranged around the lower shaft portion 611 between the lower rod 70 and the flange portion 613.

[0170] The upper shaft portion 612 is a rod-shaped member extending along the axial direction DRa, and is inserted through the upper fixed plate 40 and the upper movable plate 50. In addition, the upper shaft portion 612 is formed so that its outer diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the upper fixed hole 42 of the upper fixed plate 40 and the inner diameter of the upper movable hole 52 of the upper movable plate 50, and is not directly connected to the upper fixed plate 40 and the upper movable plate 50. In other words, the upper shaft portion 612 is not directly fixed to the upper fixed plate 40 and the upper movable plate 50. Therefore, when the upper shaft portion 612 rotates, the rotational force of the shaft 61 is not directly transmitted to the upper movable plate 50 by the upper shaft portion 612.

[0171] In this embodiment, an upper rod 75 and an upper torsion spring 85 for transmitting the rotational force of the shaft 61 to the upper movable plate 50 are provided in the lower housing 11. The upper movable plate 50 is connected to the upper shaft portion 612 via the upper rod 75 and the upper torsion spring 85. The upper torsion spring 85 is arranged around the upper shaft portion 612 between the upper rod 75 and the flange portion 613. In addition, a compression spring 90 is arranged around the upper shaft portion 612 between the upper rod 75 and the flange portion 613.

[0172] The flange portion 613 is a portion that supports the lower torsion spring 80, the upper torsion spring 85, and the compression spring 90. The flange portion 613 protrudes from the end portion on the lower DRa1 side of the outer peripheral surface of the upper axial portion 612 toward the outer side of the radial direction DRr, and is formed in the shape of an annular thin plate having a plate surface in the axial direction DRa. The flange portion 613 has a lower flange surface 6131 on the lower DRa1 side and an upper flange surface 6232 on the upper DRa2 side.

[0173] The flange portion 613 has a hook portion (not shown) on the lower flange surface 6131 that is opposite to the lower torsion spring 80 in the circumferential direction DRc, and supports the end of one side of the lower torsion spring 80 in the circumferential direction DRc. In addition, the flange portion 613 has a hook portion (not shown) on the upper flange surface 6232 that is opposite to the upper torsion spring 85 in the circumferential direction DRc, and supports the end of one side of the upper torsion spring 85 in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the upper flange surface 6232 of the flange portion 613 supports the end of the compression spring 90 on the lower DRa1 side.

[0174] The lower rod 70 is a connecting member that connects the shaft 61 to the lower movable plate 30 via the lower torsion spring 80. The lower rod 70 is formed of, for example, a metal member and is configured separately from the lower movable plate 30. The lower rod 70 is fixed to the lower movable plate 30, and connects the lower movable plate 30 and the shaft 61 so that they can rotate integrally in a state where the lower movable plate 30 can be displaced in the axial direction DRa.

[0175] The lower rod 70 is a generally disc-shaped rod having a plate thickness direction in the axial direction DRa, and has a not-shown protrusion that is pressed into the lower press-in groove 33 of the lower movable plate 30, and a not-shown engaging receiving portion that is opposite in the circumferential direction DRc of the lower torsion spring 80. The protrusion of the lower rod 70 is pressed into the lower press-in groove 33 and connected to the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the lower rod 70 supports the end of the lower torsion spring 80 on the opposite side to the side supported by the flange 613 in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0176] The upper rod 75 is a connecting member that connects the shaft 61 to the upper movable plate 50 via the upper torsion spring 85. The upper rod 75 is formed of, for example, a metal member and is configured separately from the upper movable plate 50. The upper rod 75 is fixed to the upper movable plate 50, and connects the upper movable plate 50 and the shaft 61 so that they can rotate integrally in a state where the upper movable plate 50 can be displaced in the axial direction DRa.

[0177] The upper rod 75 is a generally disc-shaped rod having a plate thickness direction in the axial direction DRa, and has a not-shown protrusion that is pressed into the upper press-in groove 53 of the upper movable plate 50, and a not-shown engaging receiving portion that is opposite to the upper torsion spring 85 in the circumferential direction DRc. The protrusion of the upper rod 75 is pressed into the upper press-in groove 53 and connected to the upper movable plate 50. In addition, the upper rod 75 supports the end of the upper torsion spring 85 on the side opposite to the side supported by the flange 613 in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the plate surface of the upper rod 75 on the lower DRa1 side supports the end of the compression spring 90 on the upper DRa2 side.

[0178] The lower torsion spring 80 is a torsion coil spring that applies force to the lower movable plate 30 in one direction of the circumferential direction DRc relative to the housing 10. The lower torsion spring 80 is formed in a coil shape and wound around the lower axial portion 611. The inner diameter of the coil of the lower torsion spring 80 is larger than the outer diameter of the lower axial portion 611. The end of the lower torsion spring 80 on the lower DRa1 side of the axial direction DRa is connected to the engaging receiving portion of the lower rod 70 in a manner that cannot rotate relative to each other, and the end on the upper DRa2 side of the axial direction DRa is connected to the hook portion of the flange portion 613 in a manner that cannot rotate relative to each other. The lower torsion spring 80 is arranged in a state where it is twisted in the circumferential direction DRc and elastically deformed.

[0179] Thus, the lower torsion spring 80 generates a force that applies force to one side of the circumferential direction DRc to the lower movable plate 30 by its own elastic deformation. Furthermore, when the rotational force generated by the drive unit 60 is transmitted to the shaft 61, the rotational force is transmitted to the lower movable plate 30 via the flange portion 613, the lower torsion spring 80, and the lower rod 70. As a result, the lower movable plate 30 rotates integrally with the shaft 61 about the axis CL as the center as the shaft 61 rotates.

[0180] The upper torsion spring 85 is a torsion coil spring that applies force to the upper movable plate 50 in one direction of the circumferential direction DRc relative to the housing 10. The upper torsion spring 85 is formed in a coil shape and wound around the upper axial portion 612. The inner diameter of the coil of the upper torsion spring 85 is larger than the outer diameter of the upper axial portion 612. The end of the upper torsion spring 85 on the upper DRa2 side of the axial direction DRa is connected to the engaging receiving portion of the upper rod 75 in a manner that cannot rotate relative to each other, and the end of the lower DRa1 side of the axial direction DRa is connected to the hook portion of the flange portion 613 in a manner that cannot rotate relative to each other. The upper torsion spring 85 is arranged in a state where it is twisted in the circumferential direction DRc and elastically deformed.

[0181] Thus, the upper torsion spring 85 generates a force that applies force to one side of the circumferential direction DRc to the upper movable plate 50 by its own elastic deformation. Furthermore, when the rotational force generated by the drive unit 60 is transmitted to the shaft 61, the rotational force is transmitted to the upper movable plate 50 via the flange portion 613, the upper torsion spring 85, and the upper rod 75. As a result, the upper movable plate 50 rotates integrally with the shaft 61 around the axis CL as the center as the shaft 61 rotates.

[0182] The lower torsion spring 80 functions as a pressing portion that generates a pressing force for pressing the lower movable plate 30 in the circumferential direction DRc. The lower rod 70 functions as a first transmission portion that transmits the pressing force generated by the lower torsion spring 80 to the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the upper torsion spring 85 functions as a pressing portion that generates a pressing force for pressing the upper movable plate 50 in the circumferential direction DRc. The upper rod 75 functions as a second transmission portion that transmits the pressing force generated by the upper torsion spring 85 to the upper movable plate 50.

[0183] The compression spring 90 is an elastic component that applies force to the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 in the axial direction DRa. Specifically, the compression spring 90 is a compression coil spring that can be elastically deformed in the axial direction DRa by being compressed in the axial direction DRa. The compression spring 90 is formed around the upper axial portion 612 in a coil shape. The inner diameter of the coil of the compression spring 90 is larger than the outer diameter of the upper axial portion 612, and the outer diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the upper torsion spring 85. In addition, the compression spring 90 is arranged on the inner side of the upper torsion spring 85. The end of the compression spring 90 on the upper DRa2 side is supported by the upper rod 75, and the end of the compression spring 90 on the lower DRa1 side is supported by the flange 613. The compression spring 90 is arranged between the upper rod 75 and the flange 613 in a compressed and elastically deformed state.

[0184] Thus, the compression spring 90 applies force to the upper rod 75 upward DRa2 by its own elastic deformation, thereby generating a force to apply force to the upper movable plate 50 upward DRa2. In addition, the compression spring 90 applies force to the flange 613, the lower torsion spring 80 and the lower rod 70 downward DRa1 by its own elastic deformation, thereby generating a force to apply force to the lower movable plate 30 downward DRa1.

[0185] Therefore, when the upper movable plate 50 rotates integrally with the shaft 61 by the urging force of the compression spring 90, the upper sliding surface 51 slides with the upper sealing surface 41 while being pressed against the upper sealing surface 41. Furthermore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates integrally with the shaft 61 by the urging force of the compression spring 90, the lower sliding surface 31 slides with the lower sealing surface 21 while being pressed against the lower sealing surface 21. The compression spring 90 of the present embodiment functions as a urging portion that presses the upper movable plate 50 against the upper fixed plate 40 and the lower movable plate 30 against the lower fixed plate 20.

[0186] Next, the operation of the valve device 1 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 As shown by the arrows FLin, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152 and the third fluid inlet portion 153 respectively. The fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152 and the third fluid inlet portion 153 respectively flow into the flow path F connected to the respective inlet portions. In a specific example, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows into the central flow path Fc. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows into the lower flow path Fb. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the third fluid inlet portion 153 flows into the upper flow path Fa.

[0187] The fluids flowing in from the first fluid inlet 151, the second fluid inlet 152 and the third fluid inlet 153 are as follows. Figure 2As shown by the arrow FLout, the fluid flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 to the outside of the valve device 1. In the specific example, the fluid flowing into the central flow path Fc flows out from some of the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 to the outside of the valve device 1 in accordance with the rotational positions of the lower movable disk 30 and the upper movable disk 50. In addition, the fluid flowing into the lower flow path Fb flows out from one or both of the first fluid outlet portion 161 and the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1 in accordance with the rotational position of the lower movable disk 30. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the upper flow path Fa flows out from one or both of the fifth fluid outlet portion 165 and the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 to the outside of the valve device 1 in accordance with the rotational position of the upper movable disk 50.

[0188] The valve device 1 of this embodiment switches the fluid outlet portion that causes the fluid to flow out of the valve device 1 by switching the operation mode of the valve device 1, thereby switching the fluid passage of the cooling water flowing in the fluid circulation system. The operation mode of the valve device 1 can be switched according to a control signal from the control unit. The valve device 1 of this embodiment can switch the operation mode to any one of the first operation mode, the second operation mode, and the third operation mode by rotating the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 integrally with the shaft 61.

[0189] Reference Fig.13 The rotational positions of the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 and the flow of the fluid flowing in the flow path F in each specific operation mode will be described. Fig.13 , the relative positions of the lower flow path through holes 34 and the lower flow path communication holes 35 formed in the lower movable plate 30 with respect to the lower fixed plate 20 in each operation mode are shown. Fig.13 , the relative positions of the upper flow path through holes 54 and the upper flow path communication holes 55 formed on the upper movable plate 50 with respect to the upper fixed plate 40 in each operation mode are shown. Fig.13 In order to make the figure easier to read, the lower side fixed plate 20 has a dotted shadow on the portion covered by the lower side flow path through hole 34 and the lower side flow path connecting hole 35. In addition, the upper side fixed plate 40 has a dotted shadow on the portion covered by the upper side flow path through hole 54 and the upper side flow path connecting hole 55.

[0190] First, the first operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 are positioned at Fig.13 The rotational position shown in the first operating mode.

[0191] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the first operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the first outlet flow hole 261.

[0192] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Then, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 communicate with the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first outlet flow path Fo1. Then, the first outlet flow path Fo1 communicates with the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2.

[0193] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0194] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet 152 flows into the first outlet Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the lower flow path communication hole 35. The fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet 161.

[0195] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the first operation mode, the upper movable plate 50 is positioned at a rotational position where the upper flow path through hole 54 communicates with the fourth outlet flow hole 464 and the sixth outlet flow hole 466. Furthermore, the upper movable plate 50 is positioned at a rotational position where the upper flow path communication hole 55 communicates with the third inlet flow hole 453 and the fifth outlet flow hole 465.

[0196] Thus, the upper flow path through hole 54 is connected to the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6. Thus, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the upper flow path communication hole 55 connects the third inlet flow path Fi3 and the fifth outlet flow path Fo5. Thus, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 is connected to the third fluid inlet portion 153 via the third inlet flow path Fi3.

[0197] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the upper flow path through-hole 54 and flows into the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 in the upper flow path Fa. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 flows out from the fourth fluid outlet portion 164 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid flowing into the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 flows out from the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0198] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the third fluid inlet portion 153 flows into the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 in the upper flow path Fa through the third inlet flow path Fi3 and the upper flow path communication hole 55. The fluid flowing into the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 flows out of the valve device 1 from the fifth fluid outlet portion 165.

[0199] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the third fluid inlet portion 153. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the second fluid outlet portion 162, the third fluid outlet portion 163, the fourth fluid outlet portion 164, and the sixth fluid outlet portion 166. In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the third fluid inlet portion 153 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the fifth fluid outlet portion 165.

[0200] Next, the second operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 are positioned at Fig.13 The rotational position shown in the second operating mode.

[0201] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the second operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates only with the third outlet flow hole 263. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, and the second outlet flow hole 262.

[0202] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 is communicated with only the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is communicated with the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 allows the second inlet flow path Fi2 to communicate with the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the second outlet flow path Fo2. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the second outlet flow path Fo2 are communicated with the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second outlet flow path Fo2.

[0203] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0204] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows into the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the second outlet flow path Fo2 in the lower flow path Fb through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the lower flow path connecting hole 35. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0205] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the second operation mode, the upper movable plate 50 is positioned at a rotational position where the upper flow path through hole 54 communicates only with the fourth outlet flow hole 464. Furthermore, the upper movable plate 50 is positioned at a rotational position where the upper flow path communication hole 55 communicates with the third inlet flow hole 453, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466.

[0206] Thus, the upper flow path through hole 54 is connected only to the fourth outlet flow path Fo4. Thus, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the upper flow path communication hole 55 connects the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6. Thus, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 are connected to the third fluid inlet portion 153 via the third inlet flow path Fi3.

[0207] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the upper flow path through hole 54 and flows into the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 in the upper flow path Fa. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 flows out from the fourth fluid outlet portion 164 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0208] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the third fluid inlet portion 153 flows into the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 in the upper flow path Fa through the third inlet flow path Fi3 and the upper flow path connecting hole 55. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 flows out from the fifth fluid outlet portion 165 to the outside of the valve device 1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 flows out from the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0209] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the third fluid inlet portion 153. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 and the fourth fluid outlet portion 164 to the outside of the valve device 1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 and the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the third fluid inlet portion 153 flows out from the fifth fluid outlet portion 165 and the sixth fluid outlet portion 166 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0210] Next, the third operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 are positioned at Fig.13 The rotational position shown in the third operating mode.

[0211] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the third operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the first outlet flow hole 261 and the third outlet flow hole 263. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the second outlet flow hole 262.

[0212] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 communicate with the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second outlet flow path Fo2. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 communicates with the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2.

[0213] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161. In addition, the fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out of the valve device 1 from the third fluid outlet portion 163.

[0214] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows into the second outlet flow path Fo2 in the lower flow path Fb through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the lower flow path connecting hole 35. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out of the valve device 1 from the second fluid outlet portion 162.

[0215] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the third operation mode, the upper movable plate 50 is positioned at a rotational position where the upper flow path through hole 54 communicates with the fourth outlet flow hole 464 and the fifth outlet flow hole 465. Furthermore, the upper movable plate 50 is positioned at a rotational position where the upper flow path communication hole 55 communicates with the third inlet flow hole 453 and the sixth outlet flow hole 466.

[0216] Thus, the upper flow path through hole 54 is connected to the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 and the fifth outlet flow path Fo5. Thus, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 and the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the upper flow path communication hole 55 connects the third inlet flow path Fi3 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6. Thus, the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 is connected to the third fluid inlet portion 153 via the third inlet flow path Fi3.

[0217] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the upper flow path through-hole 54 and flows into the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 and the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 in the upper flow path Fa. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the fourth outlet flow path Fo4 flows out from the fourth fluid outlet portion 164 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid flowing into the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 flows out from the fifth fluid outlet portion 165 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0218] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the third fluid inlet portion 153 flows into the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 in the upper flow path Fa through the third inlet flow path Fi3 and the upper flow path connecting hole 55. The fluid flowing into the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 flows out of the valve device 1 from the sixth fluid outlet portion 166.

[0219] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the third fluid inlet portion 153. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161, the third fluid outlet portion 163, the fourth fluid outlet portion 164, and the fifth fluid outlet portion 165. In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the second fluid outlet portion 162. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the third fluid inlet portion 153 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the sixth fluid outlet portion 166.

[0220] In this way, the valve device 1 of this embodiment switches the outlets connected to the first fluid inlet 151, the second fluid inlet 152, and the third fluid inlet 153, respectively, among the first fluid outlet 161 to the sixth fluid outlet 166 by switching the operation mode. Thus, the valve device 1 can switch the fluid passage of the cooling water flowing in the fluid circulation system to the fluid passage corresponding to each operation mode.

[0221] As described above, the valve device 1 of the present embodiment includes the shaft 61 and the housing 10, the housing 10 forming the flow path F and having the first to third fluid inlet portions 151 to 153 and the first to sixth fluid outlet portions 161 to 166 through which the fluid flows. In addition, the valve device 1 includes the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50, which are arranged in the axial direction DRa in a manner spaced apart from each other inside the flow path F to define the flow path F in the axial direction DRa, and rotate as the shaft 61 rotates.

[0222] The second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162, and the third fluid outlet 163 are disposed on the lower side DRa1 of the lower movable plate 30. The third fluid inlet 153, the fourth fluid outlet 164, the fifth fluid outlet 165, and the sixth fluid outlet 166 are disposed on the upper side DRa2 of the upper movable plate 50.

[0223] The housing 10 has a lower partition wall 1124 that divides the lower flow path Fb into a second inlet flow path Fi2, a first outlet flow path Fo1, a second outlet flow path Fo2, and a third outlet flow path Fo3. In addition, the housing 10 has an upper partition wall 1214 that divides the upper flow path Fa into a third inlet flow path Fi3, a fourth outlet flow path Fo4, a fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and a sixth outlet flow path Fo6.

[0224] The lower movable plate 30 has a lower flow path through hole 34 formed to penetrate the lower movable plate 30. The lower movable plate 30 rotates with the rotation of the shaft 61, thereby switching the flow path communicating with the lower flow path through hole 34 among the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162, and the third fluid outlet 163.

[0225] The upper movable plate 50 has an upper flow path through hole 54 formed to penetrate the upper movable plate 50. The upper movable plate 50 rotates with the rotation of the shaft 61, thereby switching the flow path communicating with the upper flow path through hole 54 among the third fluid inlet 153, the fourth fluid outlet 164, the fifth fluid outlet 165, and the sixth fluid outlet 166.

[0226] Thus, by rotating the lower movable plate 30, the fluid outlet portion for causing the fluid to flow out can be switched to any one of the first fluid outlet portion 161, the second fluid outlet portion 162, and the third fluid outlet portion 163. Furthermore, by rotating the upper movable plate 50, the fluid outlet portion for causing the fluid to flow out can be switched to any one of the fourth fluid outlet portion 164, the fifth fluid outlet portion 165, and the sixth fluid outlet portion 166.

[0227] Furthermore, according to such a configuration, even with the configuration including two disks, the lower movable disk 30 and the upper movable disk 50 , it is possible to increase the number of fluid outlets for the fluid to flow out without increasing the size of the housing 10 . Furthermore, the number of operation modes of the valve device 1 can be increased.

[0228] In addition, in the present embodiment, the flow path F in the housing 10 is divided into a lower flow path Fb, a central flow path Fc, and an upper flow path Fa by the lower movable disk 30 and the upper movable disk 50. In addition, the valve device 1 has a first fluid inlet 151 communicating with the central flow path Fc, and a second fluid inlet 152, a first fluid outlet 161, a second fluid outlet 162, and a third fluid outlet 163 communicating with the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the valve device 1 has a third fluid inlet 153, a fourth fluid outlet 164, a fifth fluid outlet 165, and a sixth fluid outlet 166 communicating with the upper flow path Fa. And, the valve device 1 switches the fluid outlets communicating with the three fluid inlets, respectively, among the six fluid outlets by rotating the lower movable disk 30 and the upper movable disk 50.

[0229] In contrast, the valve device 1 can be configured such that one of the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 is eliminated to reduce the number of movable plates to one, and one of the lower flow path Fb and the upper flow path Fa is eliminated. For example, the valve device 1 is configured such that the upper movable plate 50 and the upper flow path Fa are eliminated. Furthermore, the valve device 1 includes the second fluid inlet 152 and the third fluid inlet 153, which are connected to the lower flow path Fb, and the first to sixth fluid outlets 161 to 166.

[0230] In this case, the lower flow path Fb is divided into eight spaces by the lower partition wall 1124. Furthermore, the valve device 1 is configured such that the fluid outlets 161 to 166 that are connected to the first fluid inlet 151, the second fluid inlet 152, and the third fluid inlet 153 are switched by rotating the lower movable disk 30.

[0231] However, when the lower flow path Fb is divided into eight spaces by the lower partition wall 1124, the flow path cross-sectional area in each space becomes smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the present embodiment. Therefore, the resistance to the fluid when the fluid flows into the eight spaces separated by the lower partition wall 1124 becomes larger, and the fluid becomes difficult to flow. In addition, the size of the circumferential direction DRc of the housing 10 may be insufficient for providing the second fluid inlet 152, the third fluid inlet 153, and the first fluid outlet 161 to the sixth fluid outlet 166 on the outer periphery of the housing 10.

[0232] In addition, by increasing the radial direction DRr of the housing 10, the resistance to the fluid when the fluid flows into the eight spaces can be reduced, and space for setting the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet can be ensured on the outer periphery of the housing 10. However, increasing the radial direction DRr of the housing 10 is not preferred because it leads to an increase in the size of the housing of the valve device 1.

[0233] Furthermore, the number of flow paths for the flow of the fluid in the housing 10 that can be switched by one lower movable plate 30 is limited, and it is difficult to freely switch between the three operation modes as in the present embodiment.

[0234] In contrast, the valve device 1 of the present embodiment rotates the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50, and switches the fluid outlets that are connected to the first fluid inlet 151 to the third fluid inlet 153, respectively, among the first fluid outlet 161 to the sixth fluid outlet 166. Therefore, it is possible to avoid increasing the resistance of the fluid when the fluid flows in the flow path F in the housing 10 without increasing the size of the radial direction DRr of the housing 10, and it is possible to ensure space for providing the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet on the outer periphery of the housing 10. In addition, it is possible to easily increase the operation modes of the valve device 1.

[0235] Furthermore, according to the above-described embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0236] (1) In the above embodiment, the valve device 1 includes the lower fixed plate 20 and the upper fixed plate 40 which are arranged to be non-rotatable with the rotation of the shaft 61. In addition, the valve device 1 includes the compression spring 90 which presses the lower movable plate 30 to the lower fixed plate 20 and presses the upper movable plate 50 to the upper fixed plate 40. The lower fixed plate 20 is arranged between the lower installation surface 1121 of the lower housing 11 and the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263 which are respectively connected to the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are formed in the lower fixed plate 20. The upper fixed plate 40 is arranged between the upper installation surface 1211 of the upper housing 12 and the upper movable plate 50. In addition, the third inlet flow hole 453, the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466, which are connected to the third inlet flow path Fi3, the fourth outlet flow path Fo4, the fifth outlet flow path Fo5, and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6, are formed in the upper side fixed plate 40. In addition, the lower side fixed plate 20 and the upper side fixed plate 40 are formed of a material having a smaller friction coefficient than the housing 10.

[0237] Thus, by pressing the lower movable platen 30 against the lower fixed platen 20 disposed between the lower setting surface 1121 and the lower movable platen 30, the gap between the lower setting surface 1121 and the lower movable platen 30 can be sealed by the lower fixed platen 20. Therefore, even when it is difficult to ensure the surface accuracy of the lower setting surface 1121, the sealing performance between the lower movable platen 30 and the housing 10 can be ensured.

[0238] Furthermore, by pressing the upper movable platen 50 against the upper fixed platen 40 disposed between the upper setting surface 1211 and the upper movable platen 50, the gap between the upper setting surface 1211 and the upper movable platen 50 can be sealed by the upper fixed platen 40. Therefore, even when it is difficult to ensure the surface accuracy of the upper setting surface 1211, the sealing performance between the upper movable platen 50 and the housing 10 can be ensured.

[0239] Furthermore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates integrally with the shaft 61, the lower movable plate 30 is pressed against the lower fixed plate 20, so that the lower sealing surface 21 of the lower fixed plate 20 slides with the lower sliding surface 31 of the lower movable plate 30. Therefore, in order to ensure the sliding property when the lower sealing surface 21 slides with the lower sliding surface 31, it is preferable that the friction coefficient of the lower sealing surface 21 is small.

[0240] Furthermore, when the upper movable plate 50 rotates integrally with the shaft 61, the upper movable plate 50 is pressed against the upper fixed plate 40, so that the upper sealing surface 41 of the upper fixed plate 40 slides with the upper sliding surface 51 of the upper movable plate 50. Therefore, in order to ensure the sliding property when the upper sealing surface 41 slides with the upper sliding surface 51, the friction coefficient of the upper sealing surface 41 is preferably small.

[0241] In contrast, the lower fixed plate 20 and the upper fixed plate 40 of the present embodiment are formed of a material having a smaller friction coefficient than the housing 10. Therefore, the sliding property of the lower sealing surface 21 and the lower sliding surface 31 can be ensured, and the sliding property of the upper sealing surface 41 and the upper sliding surface 51 can be ensured.

[0242] (2) In the above embodiment, the valve device 1 includes the lower gasket 114 between the lower setting surface 1121 and the lower fixing plate 20 for sealing the gap between the lower setting surface 1121 and the lower fixing plate 20. In addition, the valve device 1 includes the upper gasket 123 between the upper setting surface 1211 and the upper fixing plate 40 for sealing the gap between the upper setting surface 1211 and the upper fixing plate 40.

[0243] Thus, leakage of the fluid from the gap between the lower installation surface 1121 and the lower fixed plate 20 can be suppressed, and leakage of the fluid from the gap between the upper installation surface 1211 and the upper fixed plate 40 can be suppressed.

[0244] (3) In the above embodiment, the lower fixing plate 20 and the upper fixing plate 40 are formed of ceramics having a small linear expansion coefficient, good wear resistance, and a small friction coefficient. Therefore, compared with the case where the lower fixing plate 20 and the upper fixing plate 40 are formed of other components, it is easy to reduce the linear expansion coefficient while ensuring wear resistance.

[0245] (4) In the above embodiment, the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 are formed of ceramics having a small linear expansion coefficient, good wear resistance, and a small friction coefficient. Therefore, compared with the case where the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 are formed of other components, it is easy to reduce the linear expansion coefficient while ensuring wear resistance.

[0246] (5) In the above embodiment, the lower movable plate 30 has the lower flow path communication hole 35 that connects the second inlet flow path Fi2 with the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the second outlet flow path Fo2. In addition, the upper movable plate 50 has the upper flow path communication hole 55 that connects the third inlet flow path Fi3 with the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6.

[0247] Thus, the lower movable plate 30 can guide the fluid flowing in from the second inlet flow path Fi2 as the lower flow path Fb not to the central flow path Fc but to the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 as the lower flow path Fb which are the same as the second inlet flow path Fi2. Therefore, compared with a structure in which the lower movable plate 30 does not have the lower flow path communication hole 35, the operation modes of the valve device 1 can be increased.

[0248] In addition, the upper movable plate 50 can guide the fluid flowing in from the third inlet flow path Fi3 as the upper flow path Fa not to the central flow path Fc but to the fifth outlet flow path Fo5 and the sixth outlet flow path Fo6 as the upper flow path Fa which are the same as the third inlet flow path Fi3. Therefore, compared with a structure in which the upper movable plate 50 does not have the upper flow path communication hole 55, the operation modes of the valve device 1 can be increased.

[0249] (6) In the above embodiment, the compression spring 90 is formed of an elastic member that can be elastically deformed.

[0250] Thus, compared with a case where the compression spring 90 is formed of a member other than an elastic member, it is possible to easily realize a structure in which the lower movable platen 30 is pressed against the lower fixed platen 20 and the upper movable platen 50 is pressed against the upper fixed platen 40 .

[0251] In addition, in the present embodiment, one compression spring 90 presses the lower movable plate 30 against the lower fixed plate 20, and presses the upper movable plate 50 against the upper fixed plate 40. Therefore, compared with a case where the components for pressing the lower movable plate 30 and the upper fixed plate 40 are separately configured, the number of components of the valve device 1 can be reduced.

[0252] (7) In the above embodiment, the valve device 1 includes the lower torsion spring 80 that presses the lower movable plate 30 in the circumferential direction DRc centered on the axis CL, and the upper torsion spring 85 that presses the upper movable plate 50 in the circumferential direction DRc centered on the axis CL.

[0253] Thus, the urging force of the lower torsion spring 80 in the circumferential direction DRc can suppress the rattling of the lower movable platen 30 in the circumferential direction DRc. Therefore, the positional deviation of the rotational position of the lower movable platen 30 relative to the lower fixed platen 20 can be suppressed.

[0254] Therefore, it is possible to suppress the overlap deviation between the lower flow path through hole 34 of the lower movable plate 30 and the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263 of the lower fixed plate 20. In addition, it is possible to suppress the overlap deviation between the lower flow path communication hole 35 of the lower movable plate 30 and the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, and the second outlet flow hole 262 of the lower fixed plate 20.

[0255] Furthermore, the biasing force of the upper torsion spring 85 in the circumferential direction DRc can suppress rattling of the upper movable platen 50 in the circumferential direction DRc. Therefore, positional deviation of the upper movable platen 50 relative to the upper fixed platen 40 can be suppressed.

[0256] Therefore, it is possible to suppress the overlap deviation between the upper flow path through hole 54 of the upper movable plate 50 and the fourth outlet flow hole 464, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 of the upper fixed plate 40. In addition, it is possible to suppress the overlap deviation between the upper flow path communication hole 55 of the upper movable plate 50 and the third inlet flow hole 453, the fifth outlet flow hole 465, and the sixth outlet flow hole 466 of the upper fixed plate 40.

[0257] Therefore, the flow rates of the fluids flowing out from the first fluid outlet 161 , the second fluid outlet 162 , the third fluid outlet 163 , the fourth fluid outlet 164 , the fifth fluid outlet 165 , and the sixth fluid outlet 166 can be controlled with high accuracy.

[0258] In this embodiment, the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 are not directly connected to the shaft 61. The lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50 are supported by the compression spring 90 in the axial direction DRa and by the lower torsion spring 80 and the upper torsion spring 85 in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0259] Therefore, it is difficult to ensure the surface accuracy of the lower setting surface 1121, the upper setting surface 1211, the lower sealing surface 21, the lower sliding surface 31, the upper sealing surface 41, and the upper sliding surface 51, respectively, and even if deviation occurs in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction DRa, the surfaces that are in contact with each other can be easily brought into contact with each other. Therefore, the sealing properties of these contacting surfaces can be easily ensured.

[0260] (8) In the above embodiment, the valve device 1 includes the lower rod 70, which is fixed to the lower movable plate 30 and transmits the pressing force of the lower torsion spring 80 to the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the valve device 1 includes the upper rod 75, which is fixed to the upper movable plate 50 and transmits the pressing force of the upper torsion spring 85 to the upper movable plate 50.

[0261] On the other hand, if the valve device 1 is configured without the lower rod 70, the lower movable plate 30 has a portion having the same shape as the lower rod 70 and directly receives the pushing force from the lower torsion spring 80, and the shape of the lower movable plate 30 becomes complicated. Therefore, by configuring the lower rod 70 to be a separate body from the lower movable plate 30 and receiving the pushing force from the lower torsion spring 80 via the lower rod 70, the shape of the lower movable plate 30 can be simplified. Furthermore, according to the shape of the lower movable plate 30 having a simple shape, the lower flow path through hole 34 and the lower flow path communicating hole 35 can be easily formed in the lower movable plate 30, and the manufacturing cost of the lower movable plate 30 can be suppressed.

[0262] In addition, if the valve device 1 is configured without the upper rod 75, the upper movable plate 50 has a portion having the same shape as the upper rod 75 and directly receives the pressing force from the upper torsion spring 85, and the shape of the upper movable plate 50 becomes complicated. Therefore, by providing the upper rod 75 which is separate from the upper movable plate 50 and receiving the pressing force from the upper torsion spring 85 via the upper rod 75, the shape of the upper movable plate 50 can be simplified. In addition, according to the shape of the upper movable plate 50 having a simple shape, the upper flow path through hole 54 and the upper flow path communication hole 55 can be easily formed in the upper movable plate 50, and the manufacturing cost of the upper movable plate 50 can be suppressed.

[0263] (First Modification of the First Embodiment)

[0264] In the first embodiment described above, an example is described in which the lower rod 70 and the lower movable plate 30 are configured separately by connecting the shaft 61 to the lower movable plate 30 via the lower torsion spring 80. In addition, an example is described in which the upper rod 75 and the upper movable plate 50 are configured separately by connecting the shaft 61 to the upper movable plate 50 via the upper torsion spring 85. However, the structures of the lower rod 70 and the upper rod 75 are not limited to this.

[0265] For example, Fig.14 As shown, the lower rod 70 may also be formed integrally with the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the upper rod 75 may also be formed integrally with the upper movable plate 50.

[0266] Thus, the number of parts of the valve device 1 can be reduced compared to a case where the lower rod 70 and the lower movable plate 30 are configured separately, and the upper rod 75 and the upper movable plate 50 are configured separately.

[0267] (Second Modification of First Embodiment)

[0268] In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example in which the shaft 61 and the lower movable plate 30 are connected via the lower torsion spring 80 is described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0269] For example, Fig.15 As shown, the valve device 1 may be configured without the lower torsion spring 80. In this case, since the lower rod 70 for connecting the lower torsion spring 80 and the lower movable plate 30 is no longer required, the valve device 1 may also be configured without the lower rod 70.

[0270] Furthermore, in the case of a structure without the lower torsion spring 80, the shaft 61 is directly connected to the lower movable plate 30. For example, the inner diameter of the lower movable hole 32 of the lower movable plate 30 may be formed to be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the lower shaft core portion 611, and the lower shaft core portion 611 may be pressed into the lower movable hole 32 to directly connect the shaft 61 to the lower movable plate 30.

[0271] Thus, when the lower shaft portion 611 rotates, the rotational force of the shaft 61 is directly transmitted to the lower movable plate 30 by the lower shaft portion 611. In addition, the compression spring 90 applies force to the flange portion 613 downward DRa1, so that the lower movable plate 30 is applied downward DRa1 to press the lower fixed plate 20 against the lower setting surface 1121.

[0272] Although not shown, the valve device 1 may be provided with the lower torsion spring 80 and the lower rod 70, but may not be provided with the upper torsion spring 85 and the upper rod 75. In this case, the shaft 61 and the upper movable plate 50 may be directly connected by pressing the upper axial core portion 612 into the upper movable hole 52 of the upper movable plate 50.

[0273] Thus, when the upper shaft portion 612 rotates, the rotational force of the shaft 61 is directly transmitted to the upper movable platen 50 by the upper shaft portion 612. Furthermore, the compression spring 90 urges the upper movable platen 50 upward DRa2, so that the upper fixed platen 40 can be pressed against the upper installation surface 1211.

[0274] (Second Embodiment)

[0275] Next, refer to Figures 16 to 20 The second embodiment is described. In this embodiment, the difference from the first embodiment is that a fourth fluid inlet 154 is provided in the lower housing 11. In addition, in this embodiment, the shapes of the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30 are different from those in the first embodiment. Other than that, it is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment are mainly described, and the description of the parts the same as the first embodiment is sometimes omitted.

[0276] like Fig.16 and Fig.17As shown, in the lower side wall portion 111 of the present embodiment, in addition to the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, the first fluid outlet portion 161, the second fluid outlet portion 162, and the third fluid outlet portion 163, a fourth fluid inlet portion 154 is provided. The fourth fluid inlet portion 154 is an inlet port that functions as an inlet for allowing the fluid to flow into the flow path F in the housing 10.

[0277] In the present embodiment, the second fluid outlet 162, the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the fourth fluid inlet 154, and the third fluid outlet 163 are arranged in this order at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction DRc in the outer periphery of the lower housing 11. Specifically, the second fluid outlet 162, the second fluid inlet 152, the first fluid outlet 161, the fourth fluid inlet 154, and the third fluid outlet 163 are arranged at intervals of approximately 60°. The fourth fluid inlet 154 is formed in the outer periphery of the lower housing 11 at the lower side DRa1 side relative to the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30.

[0278] The fourth fluid inlet 154 communicates with the lower flow path Fb. The fourth fluid inlet 154 is an opening, and functions as one side opening.

[0279] Further, similarly to the first embodiment, in the lower side wall portion 111 , the first fluid inlet portion 151 is provided on the upper side DRa2 of the lower fixed platen 20 and the lower movable platen 30 .

[0280] A fourth inlet flow path Fi4 communicating with the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 is formed in the lower bottom wall portion 112. The fourth inlet flow path Fi4 is formed on the lower side DRa1 side relative to the lower fixed disk 20. In addition, the second outlet flow path Fo2, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are respectively divided by five lower partition walls 1124 provided on the lower bottom wall portion 112. In other words, in the flow path F in the housing 10, the lower flow path Fb is divided into the second outlet flow path Fo2, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 by the five lower partition walls 1124. In the present embodiment, the second outlet flow path Fo2, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are arranged in this order along the circumferential direction DRc.

[0281] The fourth inlet flow path Fi4 has a substantially fan-shaped cross section in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa, and the flow path cross-sectional area is formed to be substantially the same size as the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second inlet flow path Fi2, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the first outlet flow path Fo1. In addition, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 is formed to be substantially half the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the third outlet flow path Fo3.

[0282] The five lower partition walls 1124 are respectively provided at positions corresponding to the five lower partitions 24 of the lower fixed disk 20, which will be described later. Furthermore, the ends of the five lower partition walls 1124 on the lower fixed disk 20 side are respectively fixed in a state consistent with the orientation of the five lower partitions 24 of the lower fixed disk 20. Furthermore, the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 is communicated with the fourth inlet flow hole 254, which will be described later, of the lower fixed disk 20. The fourth inlet flow path Fi4 functions as a one-side flow path.

[0283] like Fig.18 As shown, the lower fixed disk 20 of this embodiment is formed with a fourth inlet flow hole 254 in addition to the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. The fourth inlet flow hole 254 is formed to penetrate the lower fixed disk 20 in the axial direction DRa, and the fluid can pass through. The cross section of the fourth inlet flow hole 254 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is formed to be substantially fan-shaped.

[0284] The second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263 are arranged in this order. In addition, the lower fixed plate 20 has five lower partitions 24 between the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263, respectively.

[0285] The second outlet flow holes 262 , the second inlet flow holes 252 , the first outlet flow holes 261 , the fourth inlet flow holes 254 , the third outlet flow holes 263 , and the five lower partitions 24 are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction DRc over the entire circumference of the lower fixed disk 20 .

[0286] The fourth inlet flow hole 254 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth inlet flow path Fi4, and is connected to the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 via the fourth inlet flow path Fi4. The fourth inlet flow hole 254 of this embodiment functions as a first flow path hole. Fig.18 The lower fixing plate 20 shown is provided without the lower protrusion 23 .

[0287] like Fig.19As shown, the lower movable plate 30 of the present embodiment has a lower flow path through hole 34 that penetrates the lower movable plate 30 in the axial direction DRa, and two lower flow path communication holes 35 that do not penetrate the lower movable plate 30. The two lower flow path communication holes 35 are formed in a substantially fan-shaped cross section in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction DRa.

[0288] The lower flow path through hole 34 of the present embodiment is formed to have a flow path cross-sectional area smaller than any of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower flow path through hole 34 cannot cover the entirety of each of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0289] Furthermore, the lower flow path through hole 34 is formed so as to be able to communicate with one or two of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263 according to the rotational position of the lower movable plate 30. Specifically, when the lower flow path through hole 34 overlaps with only one of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates only with the overlapping flow hole. In addition, when the lower flow path through hole 34 overlaps with two of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates with the two flow holes that are overlapped.

[0290] In other words, the lower movable plate 30 has the lower flow passage through-hole 34 which rotates with the rotation of the shaft 61 and communicates with at least one of the second outlet flow passage Fo2 , the second inlet flow passage Fi2 , the first outlet flow passage Fo1 , the fourth inlet flow passage Fi4 , and the third outlet flow passage Fo3 .

[0291] In this embodiment, the rotation range of the lower movable plate 30 is preset, and the lower flow path through hole 34 can communicate with one or two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower flow path through hole 34 cannot communicate with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the fourth inlet flow hole 254. That is, the lower flow path through hole 34 cannot communicate with the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2, and cannot communicate with the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 via the fourth inlet flow path Fi4.

[0292] Therefore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with one or two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, in the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the flow path corresponding to the flow hole communicated with itself. Thus, in the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the flow path communicated with itself and the central flow path Fc.

[0293] One of the two lower flow path communicating holes 35 is formed so that its cross section in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is larger than the cross section in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa of the lower flow path through hole 34. In contrast, the other of the two lower flow path communicating holes 35 is formed so that its cross section in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa is substantially the same size as the cross section in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction Dra of the lower flow path through hole 34.

[0294] Hereinafter, the one with the larger flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the two lower flow path connecting holes 35 is also referred to as the first lower connecting hole 351, and the other one with the smaller flow path cross-sectional area is also referred to as the second lower connecting hole 352. The lower flow path through hole 34, the first lower connecting hole 351, and the second lower connecting hole 352 are arranged in this order at a predetermined interval in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0295] The first lower communicating hole 351 and the second lower communicating hole 352 are formed by recessing a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 that slides with the lower fixed platen 20 . That is, the first lower communicating hole 351 and the second lower communicating hole 352 are formed so as not to penetrate the lower movable platen 30 .

[0296] The first lower communicating hole 351 is formed so that its flow path cross-sectional area is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​any one of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, and the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the third outlet flow hole 263. Furthermore, the first lower communicating hole 351 can cover the entirety of each of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, and the fourth inlet flow hole 254, but cannot cover the entirety of the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0297] In the present embodiment, the first lower communication hole 351 is formed to have a size capable of covering at least a portion of one or two of the second outlet flow hole 262 , the second inlet flow hole 252 , the first outlet flow hole 261 , the fourth inlet flow hole 254 , and the third outlet flow hole 263 .

[0298] Furthermore, the first lower communicating hole 351 is formed so as to be able to communicate with one or two of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263. Specifically, when the first lower communicating hole 351 overlaps with only one of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates with only the overlapping flow hole. In addition, when the first lower communicating hole 351 overlaps with two of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, the two flow holes that are crossed are communicated. Thus, among the second outlet flow hole 262 , the second inlet flow hole 252 , the first outlet flow hole 261 , the fourth inlet flow hole 254 , and the third outlet flow hole 263 , the flow holes that communicate with the second lower communication hole 352 communicate with each other.

[0299] The second lower communicating hole 352 is formed so that its flow path cross-sectional area is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​any of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the second lower communicating hole 352 cannot cover the entirety of each of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0300] In the present embodiment, the second lower communication hole 352 is formed to have a size capable of covering at least a portion of one or two of the second outlet flow hole 262 , the second inlet flow hole 252 , the first outlet flow hole 261 , the fourth inlet flow hole 254 , and the third outlet flow hole 263 .

[0301] Furthermore, the second lower communicating hole 352 is formed so as to be able to communicate with one or two of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263. Specifically, when the second lower communicating hole 352 overlaps with only one of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates with only the overlapping flow hole. In addition, when the second lower communicating hole 352 overlaps with two of the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the fourth inlet flow hole 254, and the third outlet flow hole 263 in the axial direction DRa, the two crossed flow holes are communicated. Thus, among the second outlet flow hole 262 , the second inlet flow hole 252 , the first outlet flow hole 261 , and the fourth inlet flow hole 254 , the flow holes that communicate with the second lower communication hole 352 communicate with each other.

[0302] In other words, the lower movable plate 30 has the first lower communicating hole 351 and the second lower communicating hole 352 which rotate with the rotation of the shaft 61 to connect the plurality of flow passages among the second outlet flow passage Fo2, the second inlet flow passage Fi2, the first outlet flow passage Fo1, the fourth inlet flow passage Fi4 and the third outlet flow passage Fo3.

[0303] In the present embodiment, the rotation range of the lower movable plate 30 is pre-set, and the first lower communicating hole 351 can communicate with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the first outlet flow hole 261, and can communicate with the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the first outlet flow hole 261. In addition, the first lower communicating hole 351 can communicate with the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the third outlet flow hole 263. Thus, the first lower communicating hole 351 can communicate the second inlet flow hole 252 with the first outlet flow hole 261, and can communicate the fourth inlet flow hole 254 with the first outlet flow hole 261. Furthermore, the first lower communicating hole 351 can communicate the fourth inlet flow hole 254 with the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the first lower communicating hole 351 cannot communicate with the second outlet flow hole 262.

[0304] Therefore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the first outlet flow hole 261. Furthermore, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates with the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first outlet flow path Fo1, so that the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first outlet flow path Fo1 communicate. Alternatively, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates with the fourth inlet flow path 254 and the first outlet flow path 261. Furthermore, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates with the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the first outlet flow path Fo1, so that the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the first outlet flow path Fo1 communicate. Furthermore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates with the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the third outlet flow hole 263. Furthermore, the first lower communication hole 351 communicates with the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3, thereby allowing the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 to communicate with each other.

[0305] In addition, the second lower communicating hole 352 can communicate with one or two of the fourth inlet flow hole 254, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. Thus, the second lower communicating hole 352 can communicate the fourth inlet flow hole 254 with the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the second lower communicating hole 352 can communicate with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the second lower communicating hole 352 cannot communicate with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the first outlet flow hole 261.

[0306] Therefore, when the second lower communicating hole 352 is rotated and stops at a predetermined position and communicates with only one of the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the third outlet flow hole 263, the flow hole communicated with by the second lower communicating hole 352 is not communicated with the other flow holes. That is, the flow hole communicated with by the second lower communicating hole 352 is closed in the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, in the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the flow path communicated with by the second lower communicating hole 352 is not communicated with the other flow paths.

[0307] In addition, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position and communicates with the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the third outlet flow hole 263, the second lower communicating hole 352 communicates with the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. In addition, the second lower communicating hole 352 communicates with the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3, so that the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are communicated. In addition, the second lower communicating hole 352 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263, so that the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are communicated.

[0308] Furthermore, the valve device 1 of the present embodiment can switch the operation mode to any one of the first operation mode, the second operation mode, the third operation mode, the fourth operation mode, the fifth operation mode, and the sixth operation mode by rotating the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50. Fig. 20 The rotational position of the lower movable plate 30 and the flow of the fluid flowing in the flow path F in each specific operation mode will be described.

[0309] In addition, Fig. 20 In order to make the figure easier to read, the lower fixed plate 20 is provided with dotted shadows at the portion covered by the lower flow path through hole 34, the first lower communicating hole 351, and the second lower communicating hole 352. In addition, in the present embodiment, since the shapes of the upper housing 12, the upper fixed plate 40, and the upper movable plate 50 are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description of the flow of the fluid flowing into the upper flow path Fa is omitted.

[0310] First, the first operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig. 20 The rotational position shown in the first operating mode.

[0311] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the first operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower communication hole 351 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the first outlet flow hole 261. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower communication hole 352 communicates only with the fourth inlet flow hole 254.

[0312] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 is connected to the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates the second inlet flow path Fi2 with the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2. Furthermore, the second lower communicating hole 352 is connected only to the fourth inlet flow path Fi4. Thus, the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 is closed by the second lower communicating hole 352 and the lower sliding surface 31.

[0313] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the first operation mode, the third outlet flow hole 263 faces a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 where the lower flow path through hole 34, the first lower communication hole 351, and the second lower communication hole 352 are not formed. Therefore, when the operation mode is set to the first operation mode, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is closed by the lower sliding surface 31.

[0314] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0315] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet 152 flows into the first outlet Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first lower communication hole 351. The fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet 161.

[0316] However, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet 154 is blocked by the lower movable disk 30 and does not flow out from the first fluid outlet 161 , the second fluid outlet 162 , and the third fluid outlet 163 .

[0317] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the second fluid inlet portion 152. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the second fluid outlet portion 162 and the third fluid outlet portion 163. In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161. However, the fluid does not flow into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 closed by the lower movable disk 30.

[0318] Next, the second operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig. 20 The rotational position shown in the second operating mode.

[0319] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the second operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates only with the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower communication hole 351 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the first outlet flow hole 261. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower communication hole 352 communicates only with the fourth inlet flow hole 254.

[0320] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 is connected only to the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2. Furthermore, the second lower communicating hole 352 is connected only to the fourth inlet flow path Fi4. Thus, the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 is closed by the second lower communicating hole 352 and the lower sliding surface 31.

[0321] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the second operation mode, the second outlet flow hole 262 is opposed to a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 where none of the lower flow path through hole 34, the first lower communication hole 351, and the second lower communication hole 352 is formed. Therefore, when the operation mode is set to the second operation mode, the second outlet flow path Fo2 is closed by the lower sliding surface 31.

[0322] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0323] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet 152 flows into the first outlet Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first lower communication hole 351. The fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet 161.

[0324] However, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet 154 is blocked by the lower movable disk 30 and does not flow out from the first fluid outlet 161 , the second fluid outlet 162 , and the third fluid outlet 163 .

[0325] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the second fluid inlet portion 152. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1. However, the fluid does not flow into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 closed by the lower movable disk 30.

[0326] Next, the third operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig. 20 The rotational position shown in the third operating mode.

[0327] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the third operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates only with the second outlet flow hole 262. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower communication hole 351 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the first outlet flow hole 261. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower communication hole 352 communicates with the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0328] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 is connected only to the second outlet flow path Fo2. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2. Furthermore, the second lower communicating hole 352 communicates the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is connected to the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 via the fourth inlet flow path Fi4.

[0329] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the second outlet flow path Fo2 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0330] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet 152 flows into the first outlet Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first lower communication hole 351. The fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet 161.

[0331] The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet 154 passes through the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the second lower communicating hole 352 and flows into the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. The fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out of the valve device 1 from the third fluid outlet 163.

[0332] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fourth fluid inlet portion 154. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0333] Next, the fourth operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fourth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig. 20 The rotational position shown in the fourth operating mode.

[0334] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the fourth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates only with the second outlet flow hole 262. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower communication hole 351 communicates with the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the first outlet flow hole 261. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower communication hole 352 communicates only with the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0335] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 is connected only to the second outlet flow path Fo2. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 via the fourth inlet flow path Fi4. Furthermore, the second lower communicating hole 352 is connected only to the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is closed by the second lower communicating hole 352 and the lower sliding surface 31.

[0336] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the fourth operation mode, the second inlet flow hole 252 faces a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 where none of the lower flow path through hole 34, the first lower communication hole 351, and the second lower communication hole 352 is formed. Therefore, when the operation mode is set to the fourth operation mode, the second inlet flow path Fi2 is closed by the lower sliding surface 31.

[0337] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fourth operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the second outlet flow path Fo2 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0338] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 flows into the first outlet flow path Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb through the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the first lower communication hole 351. The fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161.

[0339] However, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet 152 is blocked by the lower movable disk 30 and does not flow out from the first fluid outlet 161 , the second fluid outlet 162 , and the third fluid outlet 163 .

[0340] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fourth operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fourth fluid inlet portion 154. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1. However, the fluid does not flow into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 closed by the lower movable disk 30.

[0341] Next, the fifth operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fifth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig. 20 The rotational position shown in the fifth operating mode.

[0342] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the fifth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates only with the first outlet flow hole 261. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower communication hole 351 communicates with the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the third outlet flow hole 263. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower communication hole 352 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0343] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 is connected only to the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates with the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is connected to the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 via the fourth inlet flow path Fi4. Furthermore, the second lower communicating hole 352 is connected to the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 is connected to the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 via the third outlet flow path Fo3, the first lower communicating hole 351 and the fourth inlet flow path Fi4.

[0344] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the fifth operation mode, the second inlet flow hole 252 faces a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 where none of the lower flow path through hole 34, the first lower communication hole 351, and the second lower communication hole 352 is formed. Therefore, when the operation mode is set to the fifth operation mode, the second inlet flow path Fi2 is closed by the lower sliding surface 31.

[0345] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fifth operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the first outlet flow path Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161.

[0346] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 passes through the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the first lower communicating hole 351 and flows into the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, a portion of the fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1, and the remaining portion passes through the second lower through hole 342 and flows into the second outlet flow path Fo2 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0347] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fifth operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fourth fluid inlet portion 154. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 and the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1. However, the fluid does not flow into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 closed by the lower movable disk 30.

[0348] Next, the sixth operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the sixth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig. 20 The rotational position shown in the sixth operating mode.

[0349] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the sixth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path through hole 34 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower communication hole 351 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the first outlet flow hole 261. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower communication hole 352 communicates with the fourth inlet flow hole 254 and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0350] Thus, the lower flow path through hole 34 is connected to the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the first lower communicating hole 351 communicates the second inlet flow path Fi2 with the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2. Furthermore, the second lower communicating hole 352 communicates the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 with the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is connected to the fourth fluid inlet portion 154 via the fourth inlet flow path Fi4.

[0351] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the sixth operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 passes through the central flow path Fc and the lower flow path through-hole 34 and flows into the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0352] Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet 152 flows into the first outlet Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the first lower communication hole 351. The fluid flowing into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet 161.

[0353] The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fourth fluid inlet 154 passes through the fourth inlet flow path Fi4 and the second lower communicating hole 352 and flows into the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. The fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out of the valve device 1 from the third fluid outlet 163.

[0354] In this way, the valve device 1 switches the operation mode so that the fluid outlets connected to the first fluid inlet 151, the second fluid inlet 152, and the fourth fluid inlet 154 are switched to one of the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162, and the third fluid outlet 163. Thus, the valve device 1 can switch the fluid passage of the cooling water flowing in the fluid circulation system. In addition, the valve device 1 can close the second fluid inlet 152, the fourth fluid inlet 154, the second fluid outlet 162, and the third fluid outlet 163 according to the operation mode.

[0355] The other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment. The valve device 1 of this embodiment can obtain the same or equivalent functions and effects as those of the first embodiment.

[0356] (Third Embodiment)

[0357] Next, refer to Figure 21 to Figure 25 The third embodiment is described. In this embodiment, the difference from the first embodiment is that a fifth fluid inlet 155 and a seventh fluid outlet 167 are provided in the lower housing 11. In addition, in this embodiment, the shapes of the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30 are different from those in the first embodiment. Other than that, it is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment are mainly described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the first embodiment is sometimes omitted.

[0358] like Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, in the lower side wall portion 111 of the present embodiment, in addition to the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, the first fluid outlet portion 161, the second fluid outlet portion 162, and the third fluid outlet portion 163, a fifth fluid inlet portion 155 and a seventh fluid outlet portion 167 are provided. The fifth fluid inlet portion 155 is an inlet port that functions as an inlet for allowing a fluid to flow into the flow path F in the housing 10. The seventh fluid outlet portion 167 is an outlet port that functions as an outlet for allowing a fluid that has flowed into the flow path F in the housing 10 to flow out to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0359] The fifth fluid inlet portion 155 is formed on the upper DRa2 side compared to the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30. In addition, the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 is arranged in the circumferential direction DRc with the first fluid inlet portion 151 in the outer peripheral portion of the lower housing 11, and is arranged at a predetermined interval. Specifically, the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 are arranged in the circumferential direction DRc at an interval of approximately 180°. The fifth fluid inlet portion 155 is connected to the central flow path Fc. The first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 are connected to the central flow path Fc as an inlet port. Furthermore, the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 are connected to each other via the central flow path Fc.

[0360] In the present embodiment, the first fluid outlet 161, the third fluid outlet 163, the second fluid outlet 162, the second fluid inlet 152, and the seventh fluid outlet 167 are arranged in this order at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction DRc in the outer peripheral portion of the lower housing 11. Specifically, the first fluid outlet 161, the third fluid outlet 163, the second fluid outlet 162, the second fluid inlet 152, and the seventh fluid outlet 167 are arranged at intervals of approximately 60°. The seventh fluid outlet 167 is formed on the lower DRa1 side compared to the lower fixed plate 20 and the lower movable plate 30. The seventh fluid outlet 167 is connected to the lower flow path Fb.

[0361] In this embodiment, the fifth fluid inlet 155 and the seventh fluid outlet 167 function as openings. Furthermore, the seventh fluid outlet 167 functions as one side opening.

[0362] The lower bottom wall portion 112 is provided with a seventh outlet flow path Fo7 connected to the seventh fluid outlet portion 167. The seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is formed on the lower DRa1 side relative to the lower fixed disk 20. Furthermore, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the third outlet flow path Fo3, the second outlet flow path Fo2, the second inlet flow path Fi2, and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 are respectively partitioned by five lower partition walls 1124 provided on the lower bottom wall portion 112. In other words, the lower flow path Fb in the flow path F in the housing 10 is partitioned into the first outlet flow path Fo1, the third outlet flow path Fo3, the second outlet flow path Fo2, the second inlet flow path Fi2, and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 by the five lower partition walls 1124. In the present embodiment, the first outlet flow path Fo1, the third outlet flow path Fo3, the second outlet flow path Fo2, the second inlet flow path Fi2, and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 are arranged in this order along the circumferential direction DRc.

[0363] The seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is formed to have a substantially fan-shaped cross section in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa, and has a flow path cross-sectional area larger than the flow path cross-sectional areas of the first outlet flow path Fo1, the third outlet flow path Fo3, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the second inlet flow path Fi2.

[0364] The first outlet flow path Fo1 is formed so that its flow path cross-sectional area is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​each of the third outlet flow path Fo3, the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second outlet flow path Fo2. The second outlet flow path Fo2 is formed so that its flow path cross-sectional area is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. The second inlet flow path Fi2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are formed so that their flow path cross-sectional areas are substantially the same size.

[0365] The five lower partition walls 1124 are respectively provided at positions corresponding to the five lower partitions 24 of the lower fixed disk 20. Furthermore, the ends of the five lower partition walls 1124 on the lower fixed disk 20 side are respectively fixed in a state consistent with the orientation of the five lower partitions 24 of the lower fixed disk 20. Furthermore, the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is connected to the seventh outlet flow hole 267 described later that is provided in the lower fixed disk 20. The seventh outlet flow path Fo7 functions as a one-side flow path.

[0366] like Fig.23 As shown in FIG. 1 , the lower fixed disk 20 of the present embodiment is formed with a seventh outlet flow hole 267 in addition to the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the second inlet flow hole 252. The seventh outlet flow hole 267 is formed by penetrating the lower fixed disk 20 in the axial direction DRa, and the fluid can pass through. The seventh outlet flow hole 267 is formed in a substantially fan-shaped cross section in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa.

[0367] The first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 are arranged in this order. In addition, the lower fixed plate 20 has five lower partitions 24 between the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267, respectively.

[0368] The first outlet flow hole 261 , the third outlet flow hole 263 , the second outlet flow hole 262 , the second inlet flow hole 252 , the seventh outlet flow hole 267 , and the five lower partitions 24 are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction DRc over the entire circumference of the lower fixed disk 20 .

[0369] The seventh outlet flow hole 267 has a flow path cross-sectional area corresponding to the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the seventh outlet flow path Fo7, and communicates with the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 via the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. The seventh outlet flow hole 267 of this embodiment functions as a first flow path hole. Fig.23 The lower fixing plate 20 shown is provided without the lower protrusion 23 .

[0370] like Fig.24 As shown in FIG. 1 , the lower movable plate 30 of the present embodiment has two lower flow path through holes 34 that penetrate the lower movable plate 30 in the axial direction DRa, and one lower flow path connecting hole 35 that does not penetrate the lower movable plate 30. The cross section of any one of the two lower flow path through holes 34 in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction DRa is formed into a substantially fan-shaped shape.

[0371] The two lower flow path through holes 34 are formed so that the cross section thereof in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction DRa is larger than the cross section of the lower flow path communicating hole 35 in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction DRa. In addition, the two lower flow path through holes 34 are formed so that the cross sections in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction DRa are substantially the same size as each other. Hereinafter, one of the two lower flow path through holes 34 is also referred to as the first lower through hole 341, and the other is referred to as the second lower through hole 342. The first lower through hole 341, the lower flow path communicating hole 35, and the second lower through hole 342 are arranged in this order at a predetermined interval in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0372] The first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 are formed to penetrate the lower movable plate 30, and are formed so that the fluid can pass through the lower fixed plate 20. In addition, the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 are connected to any of the second inlet flow hole 252, the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, the third outlet flow hole 263, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 at their lower DRa1 sides. Furthermore, the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 are connected to the central flow path Fc at their upper DRa2 sides.

[0373] The first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 are formed so that the flow path cross-sectional area is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​each of the second inlet flow hole 252, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 can cover all of the second inlet flow hole 252, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0374] In contrast, the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 are formed so that the flow path cross-sectional area thereof is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​each of the first outlet flow hole 261 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267. Furthermore, the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 cannot cover the entirety of each of the first outlet flow hole 261 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267.

[0375] Furthermore, the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 are formed so as to be able to communicate with one or two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 according to the rotational position of the lower movable plate 30. Specifically, when the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 overlap with only one of the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 in the axial direction DRa, they communicate with only the overlapping flow hole. In addition, when the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 overlap two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 in the axial direction DRa, they are connected to the two flow holes they overlap.

[0376] In other words, the lower movable plate 30 has the first lower through hole 341 and the second lower through hole 342 which are connected to at least one of the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 by rotating with the rotation of the shaft 61.

[0377] In this embodiment, the rotation range of the lower movable plate 30 is preset, and the first lower through hole 341 can communicate with one or two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the first lower through hole 341 cannot communicate with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. That is, the first lower through hole 341 cannot communicate with the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2, and cannot communicate with the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 via the seventh outlet flow path Fo7.

[0378] Therefore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the first lower through hole 341 is connected to one or two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, in the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the first lower through hole 341 is connected to the flow path corresponding to the flow hole connected thereto. Thus, in the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the first lower through hole 341 connects the flow path connected thereto with the central flow path Fc.

[0379] In addition, the second lower through hole 342 can be connected to one, two or three of the second inlet flow hole 252, the second outlet flow hole 262 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267. In addition, the second lower through hole 342 cannot be connected to the first outlet flow hole 261 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. In other words, the second lower through hole 342 cannot be connected to the first fluid outlet portion 161 via the first outlet flow path Fo1, and cannot be connected to the third fluid outlet portion 163 via the third outlet flow path Fo3.

[0380] Therefore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position, the second lower through hole 342 is connected to one, two or three of the second inlet flow hole 252, the second outlet flow hole 262 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267. In addition, in the second inlet flow path Fi2, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7, the second lower through hole 342 is connected to the flow path corresponding to the flow hole connected thereto. Thus, in the second inlet flow path Fi2, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7, the second lower through hole 342 connects the flow path connected thereto with the central flow path Fc.

[0381] The lower flow path communication hole 35 is formed by recessing a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 on the side that slides with the lower fixed plate 20. That is, the lower flow path communication hole 35 is formed so as not to penetrate the lower movable plate 30.

[0382] The lower flow path connecting hole 35 is formed so that its flow path cross-sectional area is slightly larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second inlet flow hole 252 and the third outlet flow hole 263, and can cover the entirety of the second inlet flow hole 252 and the third outlet flow hole 263. In contrast, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 is formed so that its flow path cross-sectional area is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​each of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267. Furthermore, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 cannot cover the entirety of each of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267.

[0383] Furthermore, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 is formed so as to be able to communicate with one or two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 according to the rotational position of the lower movable plate 30. Specifically, when the lower flow path connecting hole 35 overlaps with only one of the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 in the axial direction DRa, it communicates only with the overlapping flow hole. In addition, when the lower flow path connecting hole 35 overlaps with two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the third outlet flow hole 263, the second outlet flow hole 262, the second inlet flow hole 252, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 in the axial direction DRa, the two flow holes that are overlapped are communicated.

[0384] In other words, the lower movable plate 30 includes the lower flow path communication hole 35 that rotates with the rotation of the shaft 61 to communicate with at least one of the first outlet flow hole 261 , the third outlet flow hole 263 , the second outlet flow hole 262 , the second inlet flow hole 252 , and the seventh outlet flow hole 267 .

[0385] In this embodiment, the rotation range of the lower movable plate 30 is preset, and the lower flow path communication hole 35 can communicate with one or two of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 can communicate with the seventh outlet flow hole 267. In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 cannot communicate with the seventh outlet flow path Fo7.

[0386] Therefore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position and is connected to only one of the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 does not connect the flow hole connected to itself with other flow holes. That is, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 closes the flow hole connected to itself among the first outlet flow hole 261, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the third outlet flow hole 263. Thus, in the first outlet flow path Fo1, the second outlet flow path Fo2, and the third outlet flow path Fo3, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 does not connect the flow path connected to itself with other flow paths.

[0387] In addition, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position and communicates with the first outlet flow hole 261 and the third outlet flow hole 263, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the first outlet flow hole 261 and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the third outlet flow path Fo3, so that the first outlet flow path Fo1 communicates with the third outlet flow path Fo3.

[0388] Furthermore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position and communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263. Furthermore, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3, so that the second outlet flow path Fo2 communicates with the third outlet flow path Fo3.

[0389] Furthermore, when the lower movable plate 30 rotates and stops at a predetermined position and communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267. Furthermore, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7, so that the second inlet flow path Fi2 communicates with the seventh outlet flow path Fo7.

[0390] Furthermore, the valve device 1 of the present embodiment can switch the operation mode to any one of the first operation mode, the second operation mode, the third operation mode, the fourth operation mode, the fifth operation mode, and the sixth operation mode by rotating the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50. Fig.25 The rotational position of the lower movable plate 30 and the flow of the fluid flowing in the flow path F in each specific operation mode will be described.

[0391] In addition, Fig.25 In order to make the figure easier to read, the first lower through hole 341, the second lower through hole 342 and the lower flow path connecting hole 35 of the lower fixed plate 20 are given dotted shadows. In addition, in this embodiment, since the shapes of the upper housing 12, the upper fixed plate 40 and the upper movable plate 50 are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description of the flow of the fluid flowing into the upper flow path Fa is omitted.

[0392] First, the first operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig.25 The rotational position shown in the first operating mode.

[0393] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the first operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower through hole 341 communicates only with the first outlet flow hole 261. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower through hole 342 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the second outlet flow hole 262. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the first outlet flow hole 261 and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0394] Thus, the first lower through hole 341 is connected only to the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the second lower through hole 342 is connected to the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second outlet flow path Fo2. Thus, the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second outlet flow path Fo2 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 connects the first outlet flow path Fo1 to the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the first outlet flow path Fo1, the first lower through hole 341 and the central flow path Fc.

[0395] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the first operation mode, the seventh outlet flow hole 267 faces a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 where none of the first lower through hole 341, the second lower through hole 342, and the second lower communicating hole 352 is formed. Therefore, when the operation mode is set to the first operation mode, the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is closed by the lower sliding surface 31.

[0396] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows into the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 passes through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second lower through hole 342 and flows into the central flow path Fc. Therefore, the fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 respectively merge in the central flow path Fc.

[0397] A portion of the fluid that has merged in the central flow path Fc flows through the first lower through hole 341 to the first outlet flow path Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb, and the remaining portion flows through the second lower through hole 342 to the second outlet flow path Fo2 in the lower flow path Fb. The fluid that has flowed into the first outlet flow path Fo1 is further branched, and a portion of it flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1, and the remaining portion flows through the lower flow path connecting hole 35 to the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb. Furthermore, the fluid that has flowed into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid that has flowed into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0398] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the first operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155. The fluid that flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161, the second fluid outlet portion 162, and the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid does not flow out from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 closed by the lower movable disk 30 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0399] Next, the second operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig.25 The rotational position shown in the second operating mode.

[0400] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the second operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower through hole 341 communicates only with the first outlet flow hole 261. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower through hole 342 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the second outlet flow hole 262. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates only with the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0401] Thus, the first lower through hole 341 is connected only to the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the second lower through hole 342 is connected to the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second outlet flow path Fo2. Thus, the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second outlet flow path Fo2 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the lower flow path communication hole 35 is connected only to the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the third outlet flow path Fo3 is closed by the lower flow path communication hole 35.

[0402] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the second operation mode, the seventh outlet flow hole 267 faces a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 where none of the first lower through hole 341, the second lower through hole 342, and the second lower connecting hole 352 is formed. Therefore, when the operation mode is set to the second operation mode, the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is closed by the lower sliding surface 31.

[0403] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows into the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 passes through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second lower through hole 342 and flows into the central flow path Fc. Therefore, the fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 respectively merge in the central flow path Fc.

[0404] A portion of the fluid that has merged in the central flow path Fc flows through the first lower through hole 341 to the first outlet flow path Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb, and the remaining portion flows through the second lower through hole 342 to the second outlet flow path Fo2 in the lower flow path Fb. The fluid that has flowed into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1. Furthermore, the fluid that has flowed into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0405] In addition, the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates only with the third outlet flow path Fo3 and does not communicate with other outlet flow paths. Therefore, the fluid does not flow out of the valve device 1 from the third outlet flow path Fo3.

[0406] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the second operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155. The fluid that flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows out from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the second fluid inlet portion 152 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid does not flow out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 and the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 closed by the lower movable disk 30 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0407] Next, the third operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig.25 The rotational position shown in the third operating mode.

[0408] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the third operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower through hole 341 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower through hole 342 communicates only with the seventh outlet flow hole 267. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267.

[0409] Thus, the first lower through hole 341 is connected to the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the second lower through hole 342 is connected only to the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. Thus, the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 connects the second inlet flow path Fi2 to the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. Thus, the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2.

[0410] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the third operation mode, the first outlet flow hole 261 faces a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 where none of the first lower through hole 341, the second lower through hole 342, and the second lower communicating hole 352 is formed. Therefore, when the operation mode is set to the third operation mode, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is closed by the lower sliding surface 31.

[0411] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows into the central flow path Fc. Therefore, the fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 respectively merge in the central flow path Fc.

[0412] A portion of the fluid that has merged in the central flow path Fc flows through the first lower through hole 341 to the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb, and the remaining portion flows through the second lower through hole 342 to the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 in the lower flow path Fb. The fluid that has flowed into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid that has flowed into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1. Furthermore, the fluid that has flowed into the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 flows out from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0413] In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 passes through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the lower flow path communication hole 35. And the fluid passing through the lower flow path communication hole 35 merges with the fluid flowing from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 and passing through the second lower through hole 342, and flows into the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 in the lower flow path Fb. And the fluid flowing into the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 flows out from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0414] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the third operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the second fluid outlet portion 162, the third fluid outlet portion 163, and the seventh fluid outlet portion 167. In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 also flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167. In addition, the fluid does not flow out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161 closed by the lower movable disk 30.

[0415] Next, the fourth operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fourth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig.25 The rotational position shown in the fourth operating mode.

[0416] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the fourth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower through hole 341 communicates only with the second outlet flow hole 262. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower through hole 342 communicates only with the seventh outlet flow hole 267. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267.

[0417] Thus, the first lower through hole 341 is connected only to the second outlet flow path Fo2. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the second lower through hole 342 is connected only to the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. Thus, the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 connects the second inlet flow path Fi2 with the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. Thus, the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 is connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second inlet flow path Fi2.

[0418] Furthermore, when the operation mode is set to the fourth operation mode, the first outlet flow hole 261 and the third outlet flow hole 263 are opposed to a portion of the lower sliding surface 31 where none of the first lower through hole 341, the second lower through hole 342, and the second lower connecting hole 352 is formed. Therefore, when the operation mode is set to the third operation mode, the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the third outlet flow hole 263 are closed by the lower sliding surface 31.

[0419] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fourth operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows into the central flow path Fc. Therefore, the fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 respectively merge in the central flow path Fc.

[0420] A portion of the fluid that has merged in the central flow path Fc flows through the first lower through hole 341 to the second outlet flow path Fo2 in the lower flow path Fb, and the remaining portion flows through the second lower through hole 342 to the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 in the lower flow path Fb. The fluid that has flowed into the second outlet flow path Fo2 flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid that has flowed into the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 flows out from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0421] In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 passes through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the lower flow path communication hole 35. Then, the fluid passing through the lower flow path communication hole 35 flows in from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155, merges with the fluid passing through the second lower through hole 342, and flows into the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 in the lower flow path Fb. Then, the fluid flowing into the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 flows out from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0422] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fourth operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155. The fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the second fluid outlet portion 162 and the seventh fluid outlet portion 167. In addition, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 also flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167. In addition, the fluid does not flow out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161 and the third fluid outlet portion 163 closed by the lower movable disk 30.

[0423] Next, the fifth operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fifth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig.25 The rotational position shown in the fifth operating mode.

[0424] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the fifth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower through hole 341 communicates only with the first outlet flow hole 261. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower through hole 342 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0425] Thus, the first lower through hole 341 is connected only to the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the second lower through hole 342 is connected to the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. Thus, the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 connects the second outlet flow path Fo2 to the third outlet flow path Fo3. However, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are not connected to any of the first inlet flow path Fi1, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the fifth inlet flow path Fi5, the first outlet flow path Fo1 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. Therefore, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the third outlet flow path Fo3 are closed by the lower sliding surface 31 and the lower flow path communication hole 35 .

[0426] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fifth operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows into the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 passes through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second lower through hole 342 and flows into the central flow path Fc. Therefore, the fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 respectively merge in the central flow path Fc.

[0427] A portion of the fluid that has merged in the central flow path Fc flows through the first lower through hole 341 to the first outlet flow path Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb, and the remaining portion flows through the second lower through hole 342 to the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 in the lower flow path Fb. The fluid that has flowed into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid that has flowed into the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 flows out from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0428] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the fifth operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155. The fluid that flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 and the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid does not flow out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 and the third fluid outlet portion 163 closed by the lower movable disk 30 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0429] Next, the sixth operation mode will be described. When the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the sixth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at Fig.25 The rotational position shown in the sixth operating mode.

[0430] Specifically, when the operation mode is set to the sixth operation mode, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the first lower through hole 341 communicates only with the first outlet flow hole 261. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the second lower through hole 342 communicates with the second inlet flow hole 252, the second outlet flow hole 262, and the seventh outlet flow hole 267. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 is positioned at a rotational position where the lower flow path communication hole 35 communicates with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the third outlet flow hole 263.

[0431] Thus, the first lower through hole 341 is connected only to the first outlet flow path Fo1. Thus, the first outlet flow path Fo1 is connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. In addition, the second lower through hole 342 is connected to the second inlet flow path Fi2, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7. Thus, the second inlet flow path Fi2, the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 are connected to the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 via the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the lower flow path connecting hole 35 connects the second outlet flow path Fo2 with the third outlet flow path Fo3. Thus, the second outlet flow path Fo2 is connected to the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second lower through hole 342 and the second inlet flow path Fi2. Furthermore, the third outlet flow path Fo3 communicates with the second fluid inlet portion 152 via the second outlet flow path Fo2 , the second lower through hole 342 , and the second inlet flow path Fi2 .

[0432] Therefore, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the sixth operation mode, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows into the central flow path Fc. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet portion 152 passes through the second inlet flow path Fi2 and the second lower through hole 342 and flows into the central flow path Fc. Therefore, the fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 respectively merge in the central flow path Fc.

[0433] A portion of the fluid that has merged in the central flow path Fc flows through the first lower through hole 341 to the first outlet flow path Fo1 in the lower flow path Fb, and the remaining portion flows through the second lower through hole 342 to the second outlet flow path Fo2 and the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 in the lower flow path Fb. The fluid that has flowed into the first outlet flow path Fo1 flows out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 to the outside of the valve device 1. In addition, the fluid that has flowed into the seventh outlet flow path Fo7 flows out from the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0434] In addition, the fluid flowing into the second outlet flow path Fo2 is further branched, a part of which flows out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 to the outside of the valve device 1, and the remaining part flows into the third outlet flow path Fo3 in the lower flow path Fb through the lower flow path communication hole 35. Furthermore, the fluid flowing into the third outlet flow path Fo3 flows out from the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1.

[0435] According to the above, when the operation mode of the valve device 1 is set to the sixth operation mode, the fluid flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155. The fluid that flows into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151, the second fluid inlet portion 152, and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 flows out to the outside of the valve device 1 from the first fluid outlet portion 161, the second fluid outlet portion 162, the third fluid outlet portion 163, and the seventh fluid outlet portion 167.

[0436] In this way, the valve device 1 switches the operation mode, and switches the fluid outlets connected to the first fluid inlet 151, the second fluid inlet 152, and the fifth fluid inlet 155 to any one of the first fluid outlet 161, the second fluid outlet 162, the third fluid outlet 163, and the seventh fluid outlet 167. Thus, the valve device 1 can switch the fluid passage of the cooling water flowing in the fluid circulation system. In addition, the valve device 1 can branch the fluid flowing into the first inlet flow path Fi1 and the fifth inlet flow path Fi5 through the lower flow path connecting hole 35, so that a part of the fluid flows out from the first fluid outlet 161, and the rest flows out from the third fluid outlet 163. Furthermore, the valve device 1 can branch the fluid flowing into the first inlet flow path Fi1, the second inlet flow path Fi2, and the fifth inlet flow path Fi5 through the lower flow path connecting hole 35, so that a part of the fluid flows out from the second fluid outlet 162, and the rest flows out from the third fluid outlet 163. Furthermore, the valve device 1 can make the fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the second fluid inlet 152 and the fifth fluid inlet 155 merge together and flow out from the second fluid outlet 162 or the seventh fluid outlet 167 .

[0437] The other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment. The valve device 1 of this embodiment can obtain the same or equivalent functions and effects as those of the first embodiment.

[0438] (Variation of the Third Embodiment)

[0439] In the third embodiment described above, an example in which the first fluid inlet 151 and the fifth fluid inlet 155 are connected to each other via the central flow path Fc is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the central flow path Fc may be divided by a partition member (not shown) into a space connected to the first fluid inlet 151 and a space connected to the fifth fluid inlet 155. In this case, the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet 151 and the fluid flowing into the valve device 1 from the fifth fluid inlet 155 can be guided to different fluid outlets, respectively.

[0440] For example, the space communicating with the first fluid inlet 151 is defined as the first space, and the space communicating with the fifth fluid inlet 155 is defined as the second space, and the first space and the second space are separated by a partition member provided in the lower housing 11. Furthermore, the first space is communicated with the first outlet flow hole 261 and the third outlet flow hole 263. Furthermore, the second space is communicated with the second outlet flow hole 262 and the seventh outlet flow hole 267.

[0441] In the case where the central flow path Fc is partitioned into the first space and the second space, the respective fluids flowing into the valve device 1 from the first fluid inlet portion 151 and the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 do not merge in the central flow path Fc. In addition, the fluid flowing into the first space from the first fluid inlet portion 151 can be made to flow out from the first fluid outlet portion 161 and the third fluid outlet portion 163 to the outside of the valve device 1 in accordance with the operation mode. In addition, the fluid flowing into the second space from the fifth fluid inlet portion 155 can be made to flow out from the second fluid outlet portion 162 and the seventh fluid outlet portion 167 to the outside of the valve device 1 in accordance with the operation mode.

[0442] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0443] Next, refer to Fig.26 The fourth embodiment is described. In this embodiment, the difference from the first embodiment is that the valve device 1 does not include the lower fixed plate 20 and the upper fixed plate 40. Other than this, it is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment are mainly described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the first embodiment is sometimes omitted.

[0444] like Fig.26As shown, the valve device 1 of this embodiment does not have the lower fixed plate 20 and the upper fixed plate 40 disposed in the housing 10. Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower gasket 114 is disposed between the lower movable plate 30 and the lower setting surface 1121. In addition, the upper gasket 123 is disposed between the upper movable plate 50 and the upper setting surface 1211.

[0445] Furthermore, the compression spring 90 applies force to the flange portion 613 downward DRa1, thereby applying force to the lower movable plate 30 downward DRa1 via the lower torsion spring 80 and the lower rod 70 that is separately formed from the lower movable plate 30. As a result, the lower movable plate 30 is pressed against the lower gasket 114. Furthermore, the compression spring 90 applies force to the upper movable plate 50 upward DRa2 via the upper rod 75 that is separately formed from the upper movable plate 50. As a result, the upper movable plate 50 is pressed against the upper gasket 123.

[0446] The other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment. The valve device 1 of this embodiment can obtain the same or equivalent functions and effects as those of the first embodiment.

[0447] Furthermore, by pressing the lower movable plate 30 against the lower gasket 114 provided between the lower installation surface 1121 and the lower movable plate 30 , leakage of the fluid from the gap between the lower installation surface 1121 and the lower movable plate 30 can be suppressed.

[0448] Furthermore, by pressing the upper movable plate 50 against the upper gasket 123 provided between the upper installation surface 1211 and the upper movable plate 50 , leakage of the fluid from the gap between the upper installation surface 1211 and the upper movable plate 50 can be suppressed.

[0449] (First Modification of Fourth Embodiment)

[0450] In the fourth embodiment described above, an example is described in which the lower rod 70, which connects the shaft 61 to the lower movable plate 30 via the lower torsion spring 80, is configured separately from the lower movable plate 30. In addition, an example is described in which the upper rod 75, which connects the shaft 61 to the upper movable plate 50 via the upper torsion spring 85, is configured separately from the upper movable plate 50. However, the structures of the lower rod 70 and the upper rod 75 are not limited to this.

[0451] For example, Fig. 27 As shown, the lower rod 70 may be formed integrally with the lower movable platen 30. That is, the lower rod 70 may be formed integrally with the lower movable platen 30 and made of ceramic.

[0452] In addition, the upper rod 75 may be formed integrally with the upper movable platen 50. That is, the upper rod 75 may be formed integrally with the upper movable platen 50 and made of ceramic.

[0453] Thus, the number of parts of the valve device 1 can be reduced compared to a case where the lower rod 70 and the lower movable plate 30 are configured separately, and the upper rod 75 and the upper movable plate 50 are configured separately.

[0454] (Second Modification of Fourth Embodiment)

[0455] In the fourth embodiment and the first modified example of the fourth embodiment described above, an example in which the shaft 61 and the lower movable plate 30 are connected via the lower torsion spring 80 is described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0456] For example, Fig.28 As shown, the valve device 1 may be configured without the lower torsion spring 80. In this case, since the lower rod 70 for connecting the lower torsion spring 80 to the lower movable plate 30 is not required, the valve device 1 may also be configured without the lower rod 70.

[0457] Furthermore, in the case of a structure without the lower torsion spring 80, the shaft 61 is directly connected to the lower movable plate 30. For example, the inner diameter of the lower movable hole 32 of the lower movable plate 30 may be formed to be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the lower shaft core portion 611, and the lower shaft core portion 611 may be pressed into the lower movable hole 32, thereby directly connecting the shaft 61 to the lower movable plate 30.

[0458] Thus, when the lower shaft portion 611 rotates, the rotational force of the shaft 61 is directly transmitted to the lower movable plate 30 through the lower shaft portion 611. In addition, the compression spring 90 applies force to the flange portion 613 downward DRa1, so that the lower movable plate 30 can be applied downward DRa1 and pressed against the lower setting surface 1121.

[0459] Although not shown, the valve device 1 may be provided with the lower torsion spring 80 and the lower rod 70, but may not be provided with the upper torsion spring 85 and the upper rod 75. In this case, the upper axial core portion 612 may be pressed into the upper movable hole 52 of the upper movable plate 50, so that the shaft 61 and the upper movable plate 50 are directly connected.

[0460] Thus, when the upper shaft portion 612 rotates, the rotational force of the shaft 61 is directly transmitted to the upper movable platen 50 via the upper shaft portion 612. The compression spring 90 urges the upper movable platen 50 upward DRa2, so that the upper movable platen 50 can be pressed against the upper installation surface 1211.

[0461] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0462] Next, refer to Fig.29The fifth embodiment is described. In this embodiment, the difference from the fourth embodiment is that the lower gasket 114 and the upper gasket 123 are not provided. Other than this, it is the same as the fourth embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment are mainly described, and the description of the parts similar to the first embodiment is sometimes omitted.

[0463] like Fig.29 As shown, the valve device 1 of this embodiment does not have a lower gasket groove 1123 formed on the lower setting surface 1121. In addition, no lower gasket 114 is provided between the lower movable plate 30 and the lower setting surface 1121. In addition, no upper gasket groove 1213 is formed on the upper setting surface 1211. In addition, no upper gasket 123 is provided between the upper movable plate 50 and the upper setting surface 1211.

[0464] However, the lower movable plate 30 receives the biasing force of the compression spring 90 via the flange portion 613 and the lower torsion spring 80 , and is thereby urged downward DRa1 and pressed against the lower installation surface 1121 .

[0465] Furthermore, the upper movable platen 50 receives the biasing force of the compression spring 90 via the upper rod 75 , thereby being biased upward DRa2 and pressed against the upper installation surface 1211 .

[0466] The other structures are the same as those of the fourth embodiment. The valve device 1 of this embodiment can obtain the same or equivalent functions and effects as those of the fourth embodiment, as in the fourth embodiment.

[0467] Furthermore, the valve device 1 of the present embodiment includes the compression spring 90 that presses the lower movable plate 30 against the lower installation surface 1121 and presses the upper movable plate 50 against the upper installation surface 1211 .

[0468] Therefore, even if the lower gasket 114 is not provided, the fluid is unlikely to leak from the gap between the lower setting surface 1121 and the lower movable plate 30. In addition, even if the upper gasket 123 is not provided, the fluid is unlikely to leak from the gap between the upper setting surface 1211 and the upper movable plate 50.

[0469] (First Modification of Fifth Embodiment)

[0470] In the fifth embodiment described above, an example is described in which the lower rod 70, which connects the shaft 61 to the lower movable plate 30 via the lower torsion spring 80, is configured separately from the lower movable plate 30. In addition, an example is described in which the upper rod 75, which connects the shaft 61 to the upper movable plate 50 via the upper torsion spring 85, is configured separately from the upper movable plate 50. However, the structures of the lower rod 70 and the upper rod 75 are not limited to this.

[0471] For example, Fig.30 As shown, the lower rod 70 may be formed integrally with the lower movable platen 30. That is, the lower rod 70 may be formed integrally with the lower movable platen 30 and made of ceramic.

[0472] In addition, the upper rod 75 may be formed integrally with the upper movable platen 50. That is, the upper rod 75 may be formed integrally with the upper movable platen 50 and made of ceramic.

[0473] Thus, the number of parts of the valve device 1 can be reduced compared to a case where the lower rod 70 and the lower movable plate 30 are configured separately and the upper rod 75 and the upper movable plate 50 are configured separately.

[0474] (Second Modification of Fifth Embodiment)

[0475] In the first modification of the fifth embodiment described above, the example in which the shaft 61 and the lower movable plate 30 are connected via the lower torsion spring 80 is described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0476] For example, Fig.31 As shown, the valve device 1 may be configured without the lower torsion spring 80. In this case, since the lower rod 70 for connecting the lower torsion spring 80 and the lower movable plate 30 is no longer required, the valve device 1 may be configured without the lower rod 70.

[0477] Furthermore, in the case of a structure without the lower torsion spring 80, the shaft 61 is directly connected to the lower movable plate 30. For example, the inner diameter of the lower movable hole 32 of the lower movable plate 30 may be formed to be slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the lower shaft core portion 611, and the lower shaft core portion 611 may be pressed into the lower movable hole 32, thereby directly connecting the shaft 61 to the lower movable plate 30.

[0478] Thus, when the lower shaft portion 611 rotates, the rotational force of the shaft 61 is directly transmitted to the lower movable platen 30 via the lower shaft portion 611. The compression spring 90 urges the flange portion 613 downward DRa1, so that the lower movable platen 30 can be pressed against the lower installation surface 1121.

[0479] Although not shown, the valve device 1 may be provided with the lower torsion spring 80 and the lower rod 70, but may not be provided with the upper torsion spring 85 and the upper rod 75. In this case, the upper axial core portion 612 is pressed into the upper movable hole 52 of the upper movable plate 50, so that the shaft 61 and the upper movable plate 50 are directly connected.

[0480] Thus, when the upper shaft portion 612 rotates, the rotational force of the shaft 61 is directly transmitted to the upper movable platen 50 via the upper shaft portion 612. The compression spring 90 urges the upper movable platen 50 upward DRa2, so that the upper movable platen 50 can be pressed against the upper installation surface 1211.

[0481] (Sixth Embodiment)

[0482] Next, refer to Fig.32 The sixth embodiment is described. In this embodiment, the difference from the first embodiment is that the lower fixed plate 20 and the upper fixed plate 40 are not formed of ceramic. Other than this, it is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment are mainly described, and the description of the parts the same as the first embodiment is sometimes omitted.

[0483] like Fig.32 As shown, the lower fixed disk 20 of the present embodiment is formed of metal (e.g., aluminum alloy). Furthermore, for the lower fixed disk 20, the surface on the side where the lower movable disk 30 is pushed and abuts against the lower movable disk 30, that is, the lower sealing surface 21 on the upper DRa2 side, is subjected to a thin film coating treatment for improving sliding properties. Specifically, the thin film coating treatment can adopt a DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coating, a diamond coating, etc., which are used to improve sliding properties and improve wear resistance and impact resistance. In addition, the DLC coating and the diamond coating can be formed by a plasma CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) method, a sputtering method, an ion beam evaporation method, etc. In addition, as a surface treatment for improving sliding properties, the lower sealing surface 21 can be subjected to a Teflon (registered trademark) coating.

[0484] In addition, if Fig.33 As shown in FIG. 1 , the lower movable plate 30 of the present embodiment is formed of metal (e.g., aluminum alloy). In addition, for the lower movable plate 30, a thin film coating treatment for improving sliding properties is performed on the lower sliding surface 31 on the lower DRa1 side, which is a surface that is pressed against the lower fixed plate 20 and abuts against the lower fixed plate 20. Specifically, the coating treatment may be a DLC coating, a diamond coating, or the like. In addition, as a surface treatment for improving sliding properties, the lower sliding surface 31 may be subjected to a Teflon coating.

[0485] In addition, if Fig.34 and Fig.35As shown, the upper fixed plate 40 and the upper movable plate 50 of the present embodiment are formed of metal (e.g., aluminum alloy) like the lower fixed plate 20. Furthermore, for the upper fixed plate 40, a thin film coating treatment is performed on the surface of the side where the upper movable plate 50 is pressed and abuts against the upper movable plate 50, that is, the upper sealing surface 41 on the lower DRa1 side, for improving the sliding property. In addition, for the upper movable plate 50, a thin film coating treatment is performed on the surface of the side where the upper movable plate 50 is pressed and abuts against the upper fixed plate 40, that is, the upper sliding surface 51 on the upper DRa2 side, for improving the sliding property. The specific coating treatment for these upper sealing surfaces 41 and upper sliding surfaces 51 can be DLC coating, diamond coating, etc. In addition, as a surface treatment for improving the sliding property, the upper sealing surface 41 and the upper sliding surface 51 can be Teflon coated.

[0486] The other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment. The valve device 1 of this embodiment can obtain the same or equivalent functions and effects as those of the first embodiment.

[0487] In addition, since the coating treatment for improving the sliding property is performed on the lower sealing surface 21, the sliding property can be ensured when the lower movable plate 30 slides with the lower fixed plate 20. Furthermore, since the coating treatment for improving the sliding property is performed on the upper sealing surface 41, the sliding property can be ensured when the upper movable plate 50 slides with the upper fixed plate 40.

[0488] (Variation of the Sixth Embodiment)

[0489] In the sixth embodiment described above, an example in which the coating treatment for improving the sliding property is performed on the lower sealing surface 21, the lower sliding surface 31, the upper sealing surface 41, and the upper sliding surface 51 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in the case where one of the lower fixed disk 20 and the upper fixed disk 40 is formed of ceramic, a structure in which only the sealing surface of the other disk is coated with a coating for improving the sliding property may be adopted. In addition, in the case in which one of the lower movable disk 30 and the upper movable disk 50 is formed of ceramic, a structure in which only the sliding surface of the other disk is coated with a coating for improving the sliding property may be adopted.

[0490] (Seventh Embodiment)

[0491] Next, refer to Fig.36 The seventh embodiment is described. In this embodiment, the difference from the first embodiment is that the valve device 1 has a first flow path portion 1A and a second flow path portion 1B. Other than this, it is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the parts different from the first embodiment are mainly described, and the description of the parts that are the same as the first embodiment is sometimes omitted.

[0492] In this embodiment, if Fig.36 As shown, the valve device 1 includes a first flow path 1A, a second flow path 1B, and a drive unit 60. The first flow path 1A and the second flow path 1B each include components of the valve device 1 described in the first embodiment except for the drive unit 60.

[0493] Specifically, the first flow path portion 1A includes a first shell 10A, a first lower fixed plate 20A, a first lower movable plate 30A, a first upper fixed plate 40A, a first upper movable plate 50A, a first lower rod 70A, a first upper rod 75A, a first lower torsion spring 80A, a first upper torsion spring 85A, a first compression spring 90A, etc.

[0494] In addition, the second flow path portion 1B includes a second shell 10B, a second lower fixed plate 20B, a second lower movable plate 30B, a second upper fixed plate 40B, a second upper movable plate 50B, a second lower rod 70B, a second upper rod 75B, a second lower torsion spring 80B, a second upper torsion spring 85B, a second compression spring 90B, etc.

[0495] The first flow path 1A, the second flow path 1B, and the drive unit 60 are arranged along the direction in which the axis CL of the shaft 61 extends. In addition, the first flow path 1A and the second flow path 1B are arranged so that the configuration directions of the components are opposite to each other in the axis direction DRa. In addition, the shaft 61 of the drive unit 60 is arranged to penetrate the first flow path 1A and the second flow path 1B.

[0496] The first housing 10A and the second housing 10B are equivalent to the housing 10 of the first embodiment. The first lower fixed plate 20A and the second lower fixed plate 20B are equivalent to the lower fixed plate 20 of the first embodiment. The first lower movable plate 30A and the second lower movable plate 30B are equivalent to the lower movable plate 30 of the first embodiment. The first upper fixed plate 40A and the second upper fixed plate 40B are equivalent to the upper fixed plate 40 of the first embodiment. The first upper movable plate 50A and the second upper movable plate 50B are equivalent to the upper movable plate 50 of the first embodiment.

[0497] The first lower rod 70A and the second lower rod 70B are equivalent to the lower rod 70 of the first embodiment. The first upper rod 75A and the second upper rod 75B are equivalent to the upper rod 75 of the first embodiment. The first lower torsion spring 80A and the second lower torsion spring 80B are equivalent to the lower torsion spring 80 of the first embodiment. The first upper torsion spring 85A and the second upper torsion spring 85B are equivalent to the upper torsion spring 85 of the first embodiment. The first compression spring 90A and the second compression spring 90B are equivalent to the compression spring 90 of the first embodiment.

[0498] The configurations of the components of the first flow path section 1A and the second flow path section 1B are the same as those of the valve device 1 described in the first embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, detailed descriptions of the components of the first flow path section 1A and the second flow path section 1B are omitted.

[0499] In the present embodiment, the first lower movable plate 30A, the second lower movable plate 30B, the first upper movable plate 50A, and the second upper movable plate 50B are configured to be rotatable integrally with the shaft 61. Therefore, the valve device 1 of the present embodiment can switch the operation modes of the first flow path section 1A and the second flow path section 1B by rotating the shaft 61 with the drive unit 60.

[0500] Specifically, the driving unit 60 rotates the first lower movable plate 30A and the first upper movable plate 50A integrally with the shaft 61, thereby switching the operation mode of the first flow path unit 1A to any one of the first operation mode to the third operation mode described in the first embodiment. Thus, even if the number of movable plates provided in the first flow path unit 1A is two, the flow of the fluid flowing through the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet provided in the first housing 10A can be switched without increasing the size of the first housing 10A.

[0501] Furthermore, the driving unit 60 rotates the second lower movable plate 30B and the second upper movable plate 50B integrally with the shaft 61, thereby being able to switch the operation mode of the second flow path unit 1B to any one of the first operation mode to the third operation mode described in the first embodiment. Thus, even if the number of movable plates provided in the second flow path unit 1B is two, the flow of the fluid flowing through the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet provided in the second housing 10B can be switched without increasing the size of the second housing 10B.

[0502] Furthermore, the operation modes of the first flow path section 1A and the second flow path section 1B can be switched by one driving unit 60. Therefore, the number of components of the valve device 1 can be reduced compared to a configuration in which power sources for switching the operation modes of the first flow path section 1A and the second flow path section 1B are provided in the fluid section.

[0503] (Other embodiments)

[0504] As mentioned above, although the representative embodiment of this disclosure was described, this disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, For example, various modifications are possible as follows.

[0505] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the valve device 1 is used in a fluid circulation system mounted on an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the valve device 1 may be used in a fluid circulation system mounted on a vehicle other than an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. In addition, the valve device 1 may be used for purposes other than vehicles.

[0506] In the above-described embodiment, the fluid flowing in the flow path F in the housing 10 of the valve device 1 is described as cooling water, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the fluid may be a liquid or a gas other than cooling water.

[0507] In the above embodiment, the valve device 1 is configured to switch the operation mode to three operation modes or six operation modes, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the valve device 1 may be configured to switch the operation mode to two, four or five operation modes, or may be configured to switch to seven or more operation modes.

[0508] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is described in which the housing 10 has one or two fluid inlets communicating with the central flow path Fc, one or two fluid inlets communicating with the lower flow path Fb, and three or four fluid outlets. In addition, an example is described in which the housing 10 has one fluid inlet communicating with the upper flow path Fa and three fluid outlets. However, the structure and number of the fluid inlet and fluid outlet formed in the housing 10 are not limited thereto.

[0509] For example, the housing 10 may have three or more fluid inlets connected to the central flow path Fc, or may have a fluid outlet connected to the central flow path Fc. In addition, the housing 10 may have no fluid inlet or fluid outlet connected to the central flow path Fc.

[0510] Furthermore, the housing 10 may have a structure having three or more fluid inlets communicating with the lower flow path Fb, or a structure having two or less or five or more fluid outlets. For example, the housing 10 may have a structure having only a fluid outlet without a fluid inlet communicating with the lower flow path Fb, or a structure having only a fluid inlet without a fluid outlet communicating with the lower flow path Fb.

[0511] Furthermore, the housing 10 may have a structure having two or more fluid inlets communicating with the upper flow passage Fa, or a structure having two or less or four or more fluid outlets. For example, the housing 10 may have a structure having only a fluid outlet without having a fluid inlet communicating with the upper flow passage Fa, or a structure having only a fluid inlet without having a fluid outlet communicating with the upper flow passage Fa.

[0512] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is described in which the fluid inlet portion provided in the housing 10 functions as an inlet for allowing the fluid to flow into the flow path F, and the fluid outlet portion functions as an outlet for allowing the fluid flowing into the flow path F to flow out of the valve device 1, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0513] For example, the fluid inlet portion may be configured to function as an inlet for the fluid to flow into the flow path F or as an outlet for the fluid flowing into the flow path F to flow out of the valve device 1, depending on the rotational positions of the lower movable disk 30 and the upper movable disk 50. In addition, the fluid outlet portion may be configured to function as an inlet for the fluid to flow into the flow path F or as an outlet for the fluid flowing into the flow path F to flow out of the valve device 1, depending on the rotational positions of the lower movable disk 30 and the upper movable disk 50.

[0514] In the above-described embodiment, the lower flow path through hole 34 and the upper flow path through hole 54 are formed in a size that allows them to overlap in the axial direction DRa across two flow holes formed in the lower fixed disk 20 , but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0515] For example, the lower flow path through hole 34 and the upper flow path through hole 54 are formed in a size that allows three or more flow holes to overlap in the axial direction DRa.

[0516] In the above-described embodiment, the lower flow path communication hole 35 and the upper flow path communication hole 55 are formed in such a size that they can overlap across two or three flow holes formed in the upper fixed disk 40 in the axial direction DRa, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0517] For example, the lower flow path communication hole 35 and the upper flow path communication hole 55 may be formed in a size that allows four or more flow holes to overlap in the axial direction DRa.

[0518] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the lower flow path communication hole 35 is formed in the lower movable platen 30 and the upper flow path communication hole 55 is formed in the upper movable platen 50 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0519] For example, the lower movable plate 30 may be configured without the lower flow path communication hole 35. Furthermore, the upper movable plate 50 may be configured without the upper flow path communication hole 55. Furthermore, the lower movable plate 30 may be configured without the lower flow path communication hole 35, and the upper movable plate 50 may be configured without the upper flow path communication hole 55.

[0520] In the above-described embodiment, an example is described in which one or two lower flow path through holes 34 and lower flow path communication holes 35 are formed in the lower movable plate 30 , that is, two or three holes in total are formed, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0521] For example, three or more lower flow path through holes 34 may be formed in the lower movable plate 30, and three or more lower flow path communication holes 35 may be formed. In addition, the lower movable plate 30 may have a structure in which a plurality of lower flow path through holes 34 and lower flow path communication holes 35 are formed, respectively, so that a total of four or more holes are formed.

[0522] In the above-described embodiment, an example is described in which one upper flow path through hole 54 and one upper flow path communication hole 55 are formed in the upper movable plate 50 , forming two holes in total, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0523] For example, the upper movable plate 50 may have a structure in which a plurality of holes are formed in one of the upper flow path through-holes 54 and the upper flow path communicating holes 55, so that a total of three or more holes are formed. In addition, a plurality of upper flow path through-holes 54 and upper flow path communicating holes 55 may be formed in the upper movable plate 50, respectively.

[0524] In the first to fifth and seventh embodiments described above, examples are described in which the lower fixed platen 20 , the lower movable platen 30 , the upper fixed platen 40 , and the upper movable platen 50 are formed of ceramics, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0525] For example, the lower fixed plate 20, the lower movable plate 30, the upper fixed plate 40, and the upper movable plate 50 may be formed of a material different from ceramics (e.g., phenol, resin, metal, etc.). In addition, the lower fixed plate 20, the lower movable plate 30, the upper fixed plate 40, and the upper movable plate 50 may also be composed of a plurality of ceramics, phenol, resin, metal, etc.

[0526] In the above embodiment, the valve device 1 includes at least one of the lower torsion spring 80 and the upper torsion spring 85 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. The valve device 1 may include neither the lower torsion spring 80 nor the upper torsion spring 85 .

[0527] In the above embodiment, the valve device 1 includes at least one of the lower rod 70 and the upper rod 75 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the valve device 1 may include neither the lower rod 70 nor the upper rod 75 .

[0528] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is described in which one compression spring 90 presses the lower movable plate 30 against the lower fixed plate 20 and the upper movable plate 50 against the upper fixed plate 40, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the valve device 1 may also be configured as follows: two compression springs 90 are provided, one of the two compression springs 90 presses the lower movable plate 30 against the lower fixed plate 20, and the other presses the upper movable plate 50 against the upper fixed plate 40.

[0529] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the compression spring 90 is an elastic member for applying force to the lower movable plate 30 and the upper movable plate 50, and is an example of a compression coil spring that can be elastically deformed in the axial direction DRa, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the compression spring 90 may also be composed of a member different from the elastic member. In addition, the compression spring 90 may also be composed of an elastic member different from the compression coil spring.

[0530] In the above-described embodiment, the elements constituting the embodiment are not necessarily essential elements unless they are specifically stated to be essential or unless they are obviously considered to be essential in principle.

[0531] In the above-mentioned embodiment, when referring to numerical values ​​such as the number, value, quantity, range, etc. of the constituent elements of the embodiment, they are not limited to the specific numbers except for the cases where they are specifically stated to be necessary and the cases where they are clearly limited to specific numbers in principle.

[0532] In the above-mentioned embodiments, when the shapes, positional relationships, etc. of components are mentioned, they are not limited to such shapes, positional relationships, etc. unless otherwise specified or when they are limited to specific shapes, positional relationships, etc. in principle.

[0533] The control unit of the drive unit 60 disclosed in the present invention and the method thereof may also be implemented by a dedicated computer as follows, which is provided by constituting a processor and a memory programmed in a manner to execute one or more functions embodied by a computer program. The control unit of the present invention and the method thereof may also be implemented by a dedicated computer as follows, which is provided by constituting a processor using one or more dedicated hardware logic circuits. The control unit of the present invention and the method thereof may also be implemented by one or more dedicated computers consisting of the following combination, which refers to a combination of a processor and a memory programmed in a manner to execute one or more functions and a processor consisting of one or more hardware logic circuits. In addition, the computer program may also be stored as an instruction executed by a computer in a non-temporary tangible storage medium readable by a computer.

[0534] (Features of the Invention)

[0535] The present disclosure described above can be understood as, for example, the following technical aspects.

[0536] [First technical solution]

[0537] A valve device comprises: a shaft (61) extending along an axial direction (DRa) and rotating around a predetermined axis (CL); a housing (10) forming a flow path (F) for fluid to flow through and having a plurality of openings (151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167), the plurality of openings being connected to the flow path and functioning as at least one of an inlet for fluid to flow into the flow path and an outlet for fluid to flow out of the flow path; and a first movable disk (30) and The second movable disk (50) is arranged in the above-mentioned axial direction in a mutually isolated manner inside the above-mentioned flow path, and the above-mentioned flow path is divided in the above-mentioned axial direction, and the above-mentioned first movable disk (30) and the second movable disk (50) rotate with the rotation of the above-mentioned shaft; the above-mentioned plurality of openings include a plurality of one-side openings (152, 154, 161, 162, 163, 167) arranged on one side of the above-mentioned axial direction compared with the above-mentioned first movable disk, and a plurality of other-side openings (152, 154, 161, 162, 163, 167) formed on the other side of the above-mentioned axial direction compared with the above-mentioned second movable disk. 53, 164, 165, 166); the shell has a first side partition wall (1124) and an other side partition wall (1214), the first side partition wall (1124) divides the flow path on the first side of the axial direction compared to the first movable disk into a plurality of first side flow paths (Fi2, Fi4, Fo1, Fo2, Fo3, Fo7) connected to the plurality of first side openings, and the other side partition wall (1214) divides the flow path on the other side of the axial direction compared to the second movable disk into a plurality of second side openings connected to the plurality of second side openings. The first movable disk has a first through hole (34, 341, 342) connected to at least one of the plurality of flow paths on the one side, and rotates with the rotation of the shaft, thereby switching the flow path connected to the first through hole among the plurality of flow paths on the one side; the second movable disk has a second through hole (54) connected to at least one of the plurality of flow paths on the other side, and rotates with the rotation of the shaft, thereby switching the flow path connected to the second through hole among the plurality of flow paths on the other side.

[0538] [Second technical solution]

[0539] The valve device as described in the first technical solution comprises: a first sealing component (114), which is arranged between the portion of the housing where the first movable disk is arranged and the first movable disk, and seals the gap between the housing and the first movable disk; a second sealing component (123), which is arranged between the portion of the housing where the second movable disk is arranged and the second movable disk, and seals the gap between the housing and the second movable disk; and a force applying portion (90), which pushes the first movable disk against the first sealing component and pushes the second movable disk against the second sealing component.

[0540] [Third technical solution]

[0541] The valve device as described in the first technical solution comprises: a first fixed plate (20) which is arranged between the housing and the first movable plate so as not to rotate along with the rotation of the shaft, and has a plurality of first flow path holes (252, 254, 261, 262, 263, 267) respectively connected to the plurality of one-side flow paths; a second fixed plate (40) which is arranged between the housing and the second movable plate so as not to rotate along with the rotation of the shaft, and has a plurality of second flow path holes (453, 464, 465, 466) respectively connected to the plurality of other-side flow paths; and a force applying portion (90) which pushes the first movable plate against the first fixed plate and pushes the second movable plate against the second fixed plate; the surface of the first fixed plate on the side against which the first movable plate is pushed has a smaller friction coefficient than that of the housing; the surface of the second fixed plate on the side against which the second movable plate is pushed has a smaller friction coefficient than that of the housing.

[0542] [Fourth technical solution]

[0543] The valve device as described in the third technical solution comprises: a first sealing component (114), which is arranged between the portion of the shell where the first fixed disk is configured and the first fixed disk, and seals the gap between the shell and the first fixed disk; and a second sealing component (123), which is arranged between the portion of the shell where the second fixed disk is configured and the second fixed disk, and seals the gap between the shell and the second fixed disk.

[0544] [Fifth technical solution]

[0545] In the valve device according to the third or fourth aspect, at least one of the first fixed disk and the second fixed disk includes at least one of resin, ceramic, and phenol.

[0546] [Sixth technical solution]

[0547] In the valve device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, at least one of the first movable disk and the second movable disk includes at least one of resin, ceramic, and phenol.

[0548] [Seventh technical solution]

[0549] In the valve device according to any one of the third to sixth aspects, at least one of the first fixed plate and the first movable plate is subjected to a coating treatment for improving slidability on a surface on a side contacting each other.

[0550] [Eighth Technical Solution]

[0551] In the valve device according to any one of the third to seventh aspects, at least one of the second fixed plate and the second movable plate is subjected to a coating treatment for improving slidability on a surface on a side contacting each other.

[0552] [Ninth technical solution]

[0553] In the valve device as described in any one of the first to eighth technical solutions, at least one of the first movable disk and the second movable disk has a connecting hole (35, 351, 352, 55), and the connecting hole is formed across two or more flow paths among the multiple flow paths on one side and the multiple flow paths on the other side that can be connected to the connecting hole, so that the two or more flow paths are connected.

[0554] [Tenth technical solution]

[0555] In the valve device according to any one of the second to ninth technical solutions, the biasing portion includes an elastic member that is elastically deformable.

[0556] [Eleventh Technical Solution]

[0557] The valve device according to any one of the first to tenth technical solutions comprises a pressing portion (80, 85) that generates a pressing force for pressing the first movable plate and the second movable plate in at least one direction in a circumferential direction (DRc) centered on the predetermined axis.

[0558] [Twelfth Technical Solution]

[0559] The valve device of the eleventh technical solution comprises at least one of a first transmission part (70) and a second transmission part (75), wherein the first transmission part is fixed on the first movable disk to transmit the pushing force to the first movable disk; and the second transmission part is fixed on the second movable disk to transmit the pushing force to the second movable disk.

Claims

1. A valve device, have: A shaft (61) extends along an axial direction (DRa) and rotates around a predetermined axis (CL); A housing (10) forming a flow path (F) for fluid circulation and having a plurality of openings (151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167), wherein the plurality of openings are connected to the flow path and function as at least one of an inlet for fluid to flow into the flow path and an outlet for fluid to flow out of the flow path; and The first movable plate (30) and the second movable plate (50) are arranged in the flow path in a mutually isolated manner in the axial direction, define the flow path in the axial direction, and rotate with the rotation of the shaft. The plurality of openings include a plurality of one-side openings (152, 154, 161, 162, 163, 167) provided on one side closer to the axial direction than the first movable plate, and a plurality of other-side openings (153, 164, 165, 166) formed on the other side closer to the axial direction than the second movable plate. The shell has a one-side partition wall (1124) and an other-side partition wall (1214), the one-side partition wall divides the flow path on the one side closer to the axial direction than the first movable disk into a plurality of one-side flow paths (Fi2, Fi4, Fo1, Fo2, Fo3, Fo7) connected to the plurality of one-side openings; the other-side partition wall divides the flow path on the other side closer to the axial direction than the second movable disk into a plurality of other-side flow paths (Fi3, Fo4, Fo5, Fo6) connected to the plurality of other-side openings, The first movable plate has a first through hole (34, 341, 342) formed by penetrating the first movable plate in the axial direction, and rotates with the rotation of the shaft to switch the flow path of the plurality of one-side flow paths that is connected to the plurality of other-side flow paths. The second movable plate has a second through hole (54) formed to penetrate the second movable plate in the axial direction, and rotates with the rotation of the shaft to switch the flow path communicating with the second through hole among the plurality of other-side flow paths.

2. The valve device according to claim 1, have: A first sealing member (114) is disposed between a portion of the housing where the first movable disk is disposed and the first movable disk, and seals a gap between the housing and the first movable disk; a second sealing member (123) disposed between a portion of the housing where the second movable disk is disposed and the second movable disk, and sealing a gap between the housing and the second movable disk; and The force applying portion (90) presses the first movable plate against the first sealing member and presses the second movable plate against the second sealing member.

3. The valve device according to claim 1, have: A first fixed plate (20) is arranged between the housing and the first movable plate so as not to rotate along with the rotation of the shaft, and is provided with a plurality of first flow path holes (252, 254, 261, 262, 263, 267) respectively connected to the plurality of one-side flow paths; A second fixed plate (40) is arranged between the housing and the second movable plate so as not to rotate along with the rotation of the shaft, and is provided with a plurality of second flow path holes (453, 464, 465, 466) respectively connected to the plurality of other side flow paths; and The force applying part (90) pushes the first movable plate against the first fixed plate, and pushes the second movable plate against the second fixed plate. The surface of the first fixed plate on the side against which the first movable plate is pressed has a smaller friction coefficient than that of the housing. The surface of the second fixed plate on the side pressed by the second movable plate has a smaller friction coefficient than that of the housing.

4. The valve device according to claim 3, have: A first sealing member (114) is disposed between a portion of the housing where the first fixed disk is disposed and the first fixed disk, and seals a gap between the housing and the first fixed disk; and A second sealing member (123) is disposed between a portion of the housing where the second fixed disk is disposed and the second fixed disk, and seals a gap between the housing and the second fixed disk.

5. The valve device according to claim 3 or 4, At least one of the first fixed plate and the second fixed plate includes at least one of resin, ceramic, and phenol.

6. The valve device according to claim 1, At least one of the first movable platen and the second movable platen includes at least one of resin, ceramic, and phenol.

7. The valve device according to claim 3 or 4, At least one of the first fixed platen and the first movable platen has a surface on a side contacting each other subjected to coating treatment for improving sliding properties.

8. The valve device according to claim 3 or 4, At least one of the second fixed plate and the second movable plate has a surface on a side contacting each other subjected to a coating treatment for improving sliding properties.

9. The valve device according to claim 1, At least one of the first movable disk and the second movable disk has a connecting hole (35, 351, 352, 55), and the connecting hole is formed across two or more flow paths among the multiple flow paths on one side and the multiple flow paths on the other side that can be connected to the connecting hole, so that the two or more flow paths are connected.

10. The valve device according to claim 2, The urging portion includes an elastic member that is elastically deformable.

11. The valve device according to claim 1, A pressing portion (80, 85) is provided, which generates a pressing force for pressing at least one of the first movable plate and the second movable plate in a circumferential direction (DRc) centered on the predetermined axis.

12. The valve device according to claim 11, A transmission part having at least one of a first transmission part (70) and a second transmission part (75), wherein the first transmission part is fixed to the first movable plate and transmits the pushing force to the first movable plate; and the second transmission part is fixed to the second movable plate and transmits the pushing force to the second movable plate.

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