Flow path switching valve

Abstract

A flow path switching valve is provided with a valve unit provided with: a valve body in which a first inlet / outlet and a second inlet / outlet are formed in a valve chamber and a third inlet / outlet is formed in the bottom surface of the valve chamber; a first valve body which is rotatably disposed in the valve chamber and in which a flow path is formed; a first flow path communicating with the first inlet / outlet; a second flow path provided in parallel with the first flow path across the valve body and communicating with the second inlet / outlet; the branch part is communicated with the third inlet and outlet and branches in at least two directions; a third flow path and a fourth flow path which are respectively connected with the branch part; and a second valve body disposed in the branch portion and rotating in conjunction with the first valve body, the communication state of the first inlet / outlet, the second inlet / outlet, and the third inlet / outlet being selectively switched by the first valve body, and the communication state of the third inlet / outlet, the third flow path, and the fourth flow path being switched by the second valve body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a flow path switching valve. Background Art

[0002] The specification of Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 111828682 discloses a control valve (flow path switching valve) having a first valve element rotating in a valve body and having five or more ports (pipe joints).

[0003] However, in the above-mentioned conventional example, the number of connection ports and the combination of flow paths are fixed according to the specifications, so there is no degree of freedom, and if the specifications are changed, it is considered that a new design is required. Summary of the invention

[0004] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to easily realize a flow path switching valve of various specifications.

[0006] Means for solving problems

[0007] A flow path switching valve of a first embodiment has a valve unit, which includes: a valve body, the valve body having a valve chamber formed therein, and a first inlet and a second inlet and a second inlet for respectively entering and exiting a fluid formed on a wall surface forming the valve chamber, and a third inlet and a third inlet formed on a bottom surface of the valve chamber; a first valve core, the first valve core being rotatably arranged in the valve chamber and forming a flow path; a first flow path, the first flow path being connected to the first inlet and a second flow path, the second flow path being arranged in parallel with the first flow path across the valve body and connected to the second inlet and a branching portion, the branching portion being connected to the third inlet and a branching portion in at least two directions; a third flow path and a fourth flow path, the third flow path and the fourth flow path being connected to the branching portion, respectively; and a second valve core, the second valve core being arranged in the branching portion and rotating in conjunction with the first valve core, the connection state of the first inlet and the second inlet and the third inlet and the third inlet being selectively switched by the flow path of the first valve core, and the connection state of the third inlet and the third flow path and the fourth flow path being switched by the second valve core.

[0008] In this flow path switching valve, the second valve body rotates in conjunction with the first valve body, and the second valve body can also be rotated by rotating the first valve body. Thus, flow path switching valves of various specifications can be easily realized.

[0009] According to the flow path switching valve of the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the first valve core is a ball valve core with a spherical surface, which can switch the state in which the first inlet and outlet are connected to the third inlet and outlet, and the state in which the second inlet and outlet are connected to the third inlet and outlet, and the second valve core is a cylindrical valve core with a cylindrical surface, which can switch the state in which the third inlet and outlet are connected to the third flow path, and the state in which the third inlet and outlet are connected to the fourth flow path.

[0010] In the flow path switching valve, the first valve core, which is a ball valve core, can switch the state where the first inlet and outlet are connected to the third inlet and outlet, and the state where the second inlet and outlet are connected to the third inlet and outlet. In addition, the second valve core, which is a cylindrical valve, can switch the state where the third inlet and outlet are connected to the third flow path, and the state where the third inlet and outlet are connected to the fourth flow path. Thus, the flow from the first flow path or the second flow path can flow to the third flow path or the fourth flow path according to the specifications.

[0011] The flow path switching valve according to the first aspect or the second aspect may include a rotation drive unit in a third aspect, the rotation drive unit being connected to the valve unit and rotating the first valve element and the second valve element.

[0012] In this flow path switching valve, the second valve body rotates in conjunction with the first valve body, so the second valve body can also be rotated by rotating the first valve body using the rotation drive unit. Thus, flow path switching valves of various specifications can be easily realized.

[0013] According to the flow path switching valve of the third aspect, in the fourth aspect, the first valve element and the second valve element are connected by a connecting shaft for transmitting a driving force of the rotation drive unit.

[0014] In this flow path switching valve, the first valve body and the second valve body are connected by the connecting shaft, so the driving force of the rotation drive unit is transmitted from the first valve body to the second valve body. Thus, the first valve body and the second valve body can be linked.

[0015] According to the flow path switching valve of the third or fourth aspect, in a fifth aspect, one of the valve units is overlapped and connected with the other valve unit, and the two first valve elements and the two second valve elements in the two valve units are rotated by one rotation drive unit.

[0016] In the flow path switching valve, one valve unit is overlapped and connected with another valve unit. In addition, two first valve cores and two second valve cores in the two valve units are rotated by a rotation drive unit. Therefore, compared with the case where the rotation drive units are respectively provided in the two valve units, the number of components can be reduced and the cost can be reduced.

[0017] Effects of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, flow path switching valves of various specifications can be easily realized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the overall structure of a flow path switching valve according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view showing a flow path switching valve according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 3 It is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a state where the first valve body and the second valve body are at a first angular position.

[0022] Figure 4 Yes means Figure 3 An enlarged stereoscopic view of the first valve core and the second valve core in the state.

[0023] Figure 5 It is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a state where the first valve body and the second valve body are at a second angular position.

[0024] Figure 6 Yes means Figure 5 An enlarged stereoscopic view of the first valve core and the second valve core.

[0025] Figure 7 It is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a state where the first valve body and the second valve body are at a third angular position.

[0026] Figure 8 Yes means Figure 7 An enlarged stereoscopic view of the first valve core and the second valve core.

[0027] Fig. 9 It is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a state where the first valve body and the second valve body are at a fourth angular position.

[0028] Fig.10 Yes means Fig. 9 An enlarged stereoscopic view of the first valve core and the second valve core. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Hereinafter, the mode for implementing the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. The constituent elements represented by the same reference numerals in the various drawings refer to the same constituent elements. In addition, in the embodiments described below, repeated descriptions and reference numerals are sometimes omitted. In addition, the drawings used in the following description are all schematic drawings, and the relationship between the dimensions of the elements shown in the drawings, the ratio of the elements, etc. may not be consistent with the actual situation. In addition, the relationship between the dimensions of the elements, the ratio of the elements, etc. may not be consistent between multiple drawings.

[0030] In addition, in this specification, descriptions indicating positions and directions such as up and down, left and right, front and back are used as Figure 1 The direction arrows are for reference only and do not refer to the actual position or direction under use. Figure 1 In the figure, "U" indicates the upper direction (upper side), "D" indicates the lower direction (lower side), "LH" indicates the left direction (left side), "RH" indicates the right direction (right side), "F" indicates the front direction (front side), and "R" indicates the rear direction (rear side). "Up and down direction" refers to the arrow U direction and the arrow D direction. "Left and right direction" refers to the arrow LH direction and the arrow RH direction. And, "front and rear direction" refers to the arrow F direction and the arrow R direction.

[0031] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of a flow path switching valve 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is depicted from a perspective obliquely from the rear. In the flow path switching valve 10, two valve units 20 are stacked and connected in the vertical direction. Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view of the flow path switching valve 10 . Figure 3 It is a perspective cross-sectional view of the flow path switching valve 10 . Figure 4 is from Figure 3 An enlarged perspective view of a portion where the first valve element and the second valve element are extracted.

[0032] The flow path switching valve 10 is used as a rotary three-way valve for switching the flow path of a fluid flowing in an engine room of a car, for example. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the flow path switching valve 10 includes a valve unit 20. The flow path switching valve 10 may further include a rotation drive unit 18.

[0033] [Valve unit]

[0034] The valve unit 20 includes a valve body 14, a first valve element 16, a first flow path 21, a second flow path 22, a branch portion 27, a third flow path 23, a fourth flow path 24, and a second valve element 17. As described later, the valve unit 20 can, for example, switch a state in which the first flow path 21 is connected to the third flow path 23 and a state in which the second flow path 22 is connected to the third flow path 23. In addition, the valve unit 20 can switch a state in which the third inlet and outlet 33 is connected to the third flow path 23 and a state in which the third inlet and outlet 33 is connected to the fourth flow path 24.

[0035] (Valve body)

[0036] exist Figure 2In the embodiment, the valve body 14 is made of, for example, synthetic resin, and a valve chamber 12 is formed inside. The valve chamber 12 is open in the upper direction, and the first valve core 16 and the sealing portion 38 described later are inserted from the upper direction. A first inlet and outlet 31 and a second inlet and outlet 32, for example, which are opposite to each other and respectively allow fluid to enter and exit, are formed on the wall surface forming the valve chamber 12. As an example, the first inlet and outlet 31 is formed on the wall surface in the rear direction of the valve chamber 12, and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​is formed on the wall surface in the front direction of the valve chamber 12. That is, the first inlet and outlet 31 and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​are opposite to each other in the front-to-back direction of the valve chamber 12. In addition, a third inlet and outlet 33 is formed on the bottom surface of the valve chamber 12.

[0037] (First valve core)

[0038] The first valve core 16 is, for example, a ball valve core made of synthetic resin, and is rotatably arranged in the valve chamber 12. An insertion hole 16A is formed at the upper portion of the first valve core 16, into which the valve shaft 28 in the rotation drive unit 18 is inserted. The valve shaft 28 and the insertion hole 16A are mutually engaged around the axial direction of the valve shaft 28, and the rotation of the valve shaft 28 is transmitted to the first valve core 16. The insertion hole 16A, for example, passes through the flow path 36 of the first valve core 16.

[0039] In order to selectively connect the first inlet 31, the second inlet 32 ​​and the third inlet 33 of the valve body 14, in other words, to selectively switch the connection state of the first inlet 31, the second inlet 32 ​​and the third inlet 33, a flow path (internal flow path) 36 is provided inside the first valve core 16.

[0040] Specifically, the first valve core 16 is provided with a transverse hole 36A extending from the outer periphery (side) thereof to the flow path 36. In addition, the first valve core 16 is provided with a bottom hole 36C extending from the outer periphery (lower portion) thereof to the flow path 36. Furthermore, the first valve core 16 is provided with a transverse hole 36B extending from the outer periphery (side) thereof and merging with the center of the transverse hole 36A, for example, along the rotation axis O1 ( Figure 2 ) and is formed in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal hole 36A. By rotating the first valve core 16 by 90°, the state in which the first inlet and outlet 31 is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33 and the state in which the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33 can be switched. That is, the flow path 36 has the horizontal holes 36A, 36B and the bottom hole 36C, which are configured to be connected to each other.

[0041] Depending on the state of the first valve body 16, the horizontal holes 36A and 36B can face the first port 31 or the second port 32. When neither port faces the horizontal holes 36A and 36B, the first valve body 16 is in a closed state in close contact with the sheet member 40 described later.

[0042] Although not shown in the figure, a rib extending in the direction (vertical direction) toward the third port 33 is formed in the flow path 36 of the first valve body 16. The rib is, for example, a thin plate-like protrusion, for example, formed on the inner wall of the inner side of the horizontal hole 36A in the flow path 36 of the first valve body 16.

[0043] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment, a sealing portion 38 is provided between the first valve core 16 and the first inlet and outlet 31 and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​to seal each other. The sealing portion 38 includes, for example, a sheet member 40 and an O-ring 42. The sheet member 40 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin and is formed into a circular ring shape having openings corresponding to the first inlet and outlet 31 and the second inlet and outlet 32. The sheet members 40 are respectively arranged around the first inlet and outlet 31 and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​in the inner wall surface of the valve body 14 (the front and rear wall surfaces of the valve chamber 12). The first valve core 16 is clamped by two sheet members 40 and is arranged to be able to rotate and slide freely while being in contact with each sheet member 40.

[0044] The sheet member 40 and the valve body 14 are sealed, for example, air-tightly or water-tightly, by O-rings 42. The O-rings 42 are mounted in, for example, O-ring grooves (not shown) formed in the sheet member 40.

[0045] As an example, PPS (polyphenylene sulfide) can be used for the valve body 14 and the first valve element 16 , PTFE (fluororesin) can be used for the sheet member 40 , and synthetic rubber can be used for the O-ring 42 .

[0046] (Rotation drive unit)

[0047] exist Figure 2 , the rotary drive unit 18 is a device connected to the valve unit 20. The rotary drive unit 18 rotates the first valve core 16 so that the communication states of the first inlet and outlet 31, the second inlet and outlet 32, and the third inlet and outlet 33 are selectively switched through the flow path of the first valve core 16. In addition, the rotary drive unit 18 rotates the second valve core 17 so that the communication states of the third inlet and outlet 33, the third flow path 23, and the fourth flow path 24 are switched. The rotary drive unit 18 is arranged above the valve body 14 of the upper valve unit 20.

[0048] Specifically, a bracket 25 is fixed to the upper valve body 14, and the rotation drive unit 18 is fixed to the bracket 25, for example, using a screw 26. The upper opening in the valve chamber 12 of the upper valve body 14 is closed, for example, by the bracket 25. In other words, the bracket 25 has a shape that closes the opening of the valve chamber 12. The bracket 25 is welded in a state of being embedded in the inner side of the opening of the valve chamber 12.

[0049] The rotary drive unit 18 is, for example, a geared motor. The rotary drive unit 18 is provided with, for example, a connector 50 connected to wiring for communicating with a control unit and supplying power. The rotary drive unit 18 is combined with a valve shaft 28 as an output shaft. The valve shaft 28 is inserted into a through hole 25A formed in the bracket 25. An O-ring 29 or an X-ring (not shown) is installed on the valve shaft 28. The O-ring 29 or the X-ring ensures water tightness between the valve shaft 28 and the through hole 25A. In addition, the lower end of the valve shaft 28 is inserted into the insertion hole 16A ( Figure 5 ).

[0050] (first flow path, second flow path, third flow path, fourth flow path, branching portion)

[0051] The first flow path 21, the second flow path 22, the third flow path 23, the fourth flow path 24, and the branch portion 27 are, for example, tube portions integrally formed with the valve body 14. The first flow path 21 may be referred to as a first port, the second flow path 22 may be referred to as a second port, the third flow path 23 may be referred to as a third port, and the fourth flow path 24 may be referred to as a fourth port.

[0052] The first flow path 21 is open at both ends, for example, and communicates with the first inlet and outlet 31 of the valve chamber 12. The first flow path 21 extends linearly in the left-right direction, for example. The first inlet and outlet 31 is connected to the middle of the first flow path 21. Thus, the first flow path 21 and the first inlet and outlet 31 form a substantially T-shape in a plan view.

[0053] The second flow path 22 is arranged in parallel with the first flow path 21 across the valve body 14, and is, for example, open at both ends, and communicates with the second inlet and outlet 32. The second flow path 22 extends linearly in the left-right direction, for example. The second inlet and outlet 32 ​​is connected to the middle of the second flow path 22. Thus, the second flow path 22 and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​are formed into a substantially T-shape in a plan view.

[0054] A female connector 51 is provided at one end of the first flow path 21. A female connector (not shown) similar to the female connector 51 is also provided at one end of the second flow path 22. Male connectors 61 and 62 are provided at the other ends of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22, respectively. The male connectors 61 and 62 are configured to be connectable to the female connector 51. Annular grooves 61A and 62A are formed on the outer periphery of the male connectors 61 and 62. In addition, a pair of arc-shaped slits 51A are formed in the female connector 51, for example. The male connectors 61 and 62 are embedded in the female connector 51 and the clamp (not shown) is inserted through the slit 51A to be inserted into the grooves 61A and 62A to prevent the connector from coming off. The watertightness of the connection parts of each connector is performed by, for example, an O-ring (not shown). By having such a connector structure, it is configured to be able to connect the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 of one valve unit 20, respectively, and to connect the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 of other valve units 20. In addition, this joint structure is an example, and any other joint structure can be used.

[0055] exist Figure 2 In the figure, a first protrusion 71 protruding from the first entrance 31 side toward the inside of the first flow path 21 is provided at a connection portion of the first flow path 21 connected to the first entrance 31. The first protrusion 71 is, for example, an arc-shaped protrusion formed along the first entrance 31 relative to the opening of the first flow path 21. The range of the first protrusion 71 is, for example, set to be smaller than half of the inner circumference of the first flow path 21 on the first entrance 31 side. A single surface of the first protrusion 71 in the left-right direction is made into a concave surface extending a portion of the inner wall of the first flow path 21. In the example shown in the figure, the first protrusion 71 is provided on the left side of the first entrance 31. In addition, the first protrusion 71 may be provided on the right side of the first entrance 31, or may be provided on both the left and right sides of the first protrusion 71.

[0056] In addition, a second protrusion 72 protruding from the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​side toward the inside of the second flow path 22 is provided at the connection portion of the second flow path 22 connected to the second inlet and outlet 32. The second protrusion 72 is, for example, an arc-shaped protrusion formed along the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​relative to the opening of the second flow path 22. The range of the second protrusion 72 is, for example, set to be smaller than half of the inner circumference of the second flow path 22 on the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​side. One side of the second protrusion 72 in the left-right direction is made into a concave surface extending a part of the inner wall of the second flow path 22. In the example shown in the figure, the second protrusion 72 is provided on the left side of the second inlet and outlet 32. In addition, the second protrusion 72 may be provided on the right side of the second inlet and outlet 32, or may be provided on both the left and right sides of the second protrusion 72.

[0057] like Figure 1 , Figure 3As shown, a secondary flow path 46 closed by a cover body 44 may also be provided in the first flow path 21, for example, at a position opposite to the first inlet and outlet 31. The cover body 44 and the end of the secondary flow path 46 are sealed by welding, or are water-stopped by a sealing member such as an O-ring. The secondary flow path 46 can also be utilized by removing the cover body 44. The secondary flow path 46 can be connected to a storage tank (not shown), for example. When the valve unit 20 is overlapped up and down, there are two secondary flow paths 46 above and below. The two secondary flow paths 46 can also be connected to a storage tank having two connection ports. In this case, the storage tank may also have two storage chambers corresponding to each connection port and separated from each other. Thus, even if it is the same fluid, fluids with different temperatures can be stored separately.

[0058] In addition, a pump (not shown) can be installed at the female connector 51 or male connector 61 of the first flow path 21 at the end of the flow path switching valve 10, and the female connector or female connector 62 of the second flow path 22 at the end. The pump can also be installed at the female connector 51 of the first flow path 21 in the upper valve unit 20. In addition, the pump can also be installed at the female connector of the second flow path 22 in the upper valve unit 20. The pump can supply the fluid from other equipment to the first flow path 21, or supply the fluid of the first flow path 21 to other equipment. In addition, the pump can supply the fluid from other equipment to the second flow path 22, or supply the fluid of the second flow path 22 to other equipment.

[0059] exist Figure 2 In the figure, the branch portion 27 is a portion that is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33 and branches in at least two directions. The third flow path 23 and the fourth flow path 24 are flow paths connected to the branch portion 27, respectively. For example, the third flow path 23 extends forward from the branch portion 27 and opens on the side opposite to the branch portion 27. In addition, the fourth flow path 24 extends backward from the branch portion 27 and opens on the side opposite to the branch portion 27. In other words, the third flow path 23 and the fourth flow path 24 extend linearly in opposite directions to each other, for example. The end of the opening side of the third flow path 23 protrudes forward more than the second flow path 22, for example. In addition, the end of the opening side of the fourth flow path 24 protrudes backward more than the first flow path 21, for example. At the ends of the opening sides of the third flow path 23 and the fourth flow path 24, for example, male connectors 64 that can be connected to pipes to other equipment are respectively provided.

[0060] A through hole 23D, for example, is formed at the bottom below the third inlet and outlet 33 in the valve body 14. The valve shaft 58 can pass through the through hole 23D. An O-ring 60 is used to stop water between the valve shaft 58 and the through hole 23D. When other valve units are not overlapped below, a structure without the through hole 23D can also be provided. In addition, a structure in which the through hole 23D is closed by other components (for example, a closing portion) even if the through hole 23D is provided can also be provided. For example, the closing portion can also include a temperature sensor (not shown). The temperature sensor is, for example, supported by the closing portion and configured so that the top end is located in the branch portion 27 (the second valve core 17). By using the temperature sensor, the temperature in the branch portion 27 (the second valve core 17), that is, in the third flow path 23 or the fourth flow path 24, can be accurately measured.

[0061] (Second valve core)

[0062] The second valve core 17 is a cylindrical valve core, for example, having a cylindrical surface, which is arranged in the branch portion 27 and rotates in conjunction with the first valve core 16. Specifically, the second valve core 17 is formed with transverse holes 17A and 17B and an upper hole 17C. The transverse hole 17B is, for example, arranged along the rotation axis O1 ( Figure 2 By rotating the second valve body 17, the state in which the third inlet and outlet 33 communicates with the third flow path 23 and the state in which the third inlet and outlet 33 communicates with the fourth flow path 24 can be switched.

[0063] A cylindrical sealing portion 78 is provided between the branch portion 27 and the second valve element 17. The sealing portion 78 has through holes connected to the third flow path 23 and the fourth flow path 24. The through holes are formed to have a larger diameter than the horizontal holes 17A and 17B to suppress an increase in water flow resistance.

[0064] The upper hole 17C is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33 of the valve chamber 12. The lower part of the second valve core 17 is sealed by, for example, a supporting portion of the valve shaft 58, specifically, an O-ring 60. The valve shaft 58 is engaged with the second valve core 17 in the circumferential direction, and the second valve core 17 also rotates with the rotation of the valve shaft 58. The second valve core 17 and the valve shaft 58 may also be formed integrally.

[0065] [Overlap of valve units]

[0066] In the present embodiment, it is configured so that the other valve unit 20 can be overlapped and connected on the side of one valve unit 20 opposite to the rotation drive unit 18. The portion of the upper valve unit 20 that overlaps with the lower valve unit 20 is formed as a cover that closes the valve chamber 12 of the lower valve unit 20. This closed structure is substantially the same as the closed structure of the valve chamber 12 based on the bracket 25, and the bottom of the upper valve body 14 is welded in a state of being embedded in the inner side of the opening of the valve chamber 12 in the lower valve body 14.

[0067] In addition, it is also possible to have a structure in which one valve unit 20 is overlapped and connected to other valve units 20, and two first valve cores 16 in the two valve units 20 are rotated by one rotation drive unit 18. In this example, the valve shaft 28 of the upper valve unit 20 is connected to the valve shaft 58 of the lower valve unit 20 by a connecting shaft 56. The connecting shaft 56 connects the upper and lower valve shafts 28 and 58 through the inside of the upper first valve core 16 and the inside of the second valve core 17. When the upper valve shaft 28 is rotationally driven by the rotation drive unit 18, the rotation is transmitted to the lower valve shaft 58 via the connecting shaft 56, and the upper and lower first valve cores 16 and the second valve core 17 rotate synchronously. In addition, the upper and lower valve shafts 58 in the lower valve unit 20 are also connected by another connecting shaft 56. That is, the two connecting shafts 56 are arranged on the rotation axis O1, and the valve shaft 28 and the two valve shafts 58 are connected in series. In the present embodiment, as an example, in the upper and lower valve units 20 , the angular positions of the horizontal holes 16A and 16B of the first valve body 16 coincide with each other, and the angular positions of the horizontal holes 17A and 17B of the second valve body 17 coincide with each other.

[0068] Furthermore, the rotation drive section 18 may be provided in each of the upper and lower valve units 20 to independently control the rotation of the first valve body 16 and the second valve body 17 .

[0069] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the center-to-center distance W between the end of the first flow path 21 and the end of the second flow path 22 in one valve unit 20 may be equal to the center-to-center distance H between the ends of the first flow path 21 in the overlapping direction when one valve unit 20 overlaps and connects other valve units 20. In other words, W=H may be satisfied.

[0070] (effect)

[0071] The present embodiment is constructed as described above, and its function is described below. In the flow path switching valve 10 of the present embodiment, by rotating the first valve core 16 using the rotation drive unit 18, the connection state of the first inlet and outlet 31, the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​and the third inlet and outlet 33 of the valve chamber 12 can be selectively switched through the flow path 36 of the first valve core 16. The first inlet and outlet 31 and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​are opposite to each other across the valve chamber 12, and the first valve core 16, which is a ball valve core, has horizontal holes 36A and 36B formed in mutually orthogonal directions. Therefore, by rotating the first valve core 16 90° each time, the state in which the first inlet and outlet 31 is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33 and the state in which the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33 can be switched.

[0072] The first valve core 16 is connected to the second valve core 17, which is a cylindrical valve core, via the connecting shaft 56 and the valve shaft 58, so that the driving force of the rotation drive unit 18 is transmitted from the first valve core 16 to the second valve core 17. Thus, the first valve core 16 and the second valve core 17 can be linked. On the second valve core 17, transverse holes 17A and 17B are also formed in mutually orthogonal directions. The upper hole 17C of the second valve core 17 is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33. Thus, by rotating the second valve core 17 90° each time, the state in which the third inlet and outlet 33 is connected to the third flow path 23 and the state in which the third inlet and outlet 33 is connected to the fourth flow path 24 can be switched. Thus, the flow from the first flow path 21 or the second flow path 22 can flow to the third flow path 23 or the fourth flow path 24 according to the specifications.

[0073] Here, an example of switching the flow path in the case of the illustrated specification is described. Figure 3 , Figure 4 In the angle position shown, the transverse hole 36A of the first valve core 16 is connected to the first inlet and outlet 31, and the transverse hole 17B of the second valve core 17 is connected to the third flow path 23. The transverse hole 36B of the first valve core 16 and the transverse hole 17A of the second valve core 17 are blocked. Therefore, in this state, in each valve unit 20, the first flow path 21 is connected to the third flow path 23.

[0074] When the first valve core 16 and the second valve core 17 are in Figure 5 , Figure 6 In the angle position shown, the transverse hole 36B of the first valve core 16 is connected to the first inlet and outlet 31, and the transverse hole 17A of the second valve core 17 is connected to the fourth flow path 24. The transverse hole 36A of the first valve core 16 and the transverse hole 17B of the second valve core 17 are blocked. Therefore, in this state, in each valve unit 20, the first flow path 21 is connected to the fourth flow path 24.

[0075] When the first valve core 16 and the second valve core 17 are in Figure 7 , Figure 8 In the angle position shown, the transverse hole 36A of the first valve core 16 is connected to the second inlet and outlet 32, and the transverse hole 17B of the second valve core 17 is connected to the fourth flow path 24. The transverse hole 36B of the first valve core 16 and the transverse hole 17A of the second valve core 17 are blocked. Therefore, in this state, in each valve unit 20, the second flow path 22 is connected to the fourth flow path 24.

[0076] Furthermore, when the first valve core 16 and the second valve core 17 are in Fig. 9 , Fig.10In the angle position shown, the transverse hole 36B of the first valve core 16 is connected to the second flow path 22, and the transverse hole 17A of the second valve core 17 is connected to the third flow path 23. The transverse hole 36A of the first valve core 16 and the transverse hole 17B of the second valve core 17 are blocked. Therefore, in this state, in each valve unit 20, the second flow path 22 is connected to the third flow path 23.

[0077] Although not shown in the figure, the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 of one valve unit 20 can be connected to and linked to the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 of other valve units 20, so that flow path switching valves of various specifications can be easily realized by combining the valve units 20. Specifically, a female connector 51 is provided at one end of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22, and male connectors 61 and 62 are provided at the other ends of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22, respectively. The male connectors 61 and 62 can be connected to the female connector 51, respectively. Therefore, for example, one valve unit 20 can be easily connected to the first flow paths 21 and the second flow paths 22 of other valve units 20.

[0078] exist Figure 1 For example, when W=H, when two overlapping valve units 20 are connected in the direction of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22, and two other overlapping valve units 20 are connected, not only the first flow paths 21 and the second flow paths 22 can be connected, but also the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 can be connected. In other words, the two valve units 20 can be connected by rotating them 90 degrees. Therefore, the degree of freedom of the combination of the valve units 20 can be further improved.

[0079] Furthermore, when a rib (not shown) extending in a direction toward the third inlet and outlet 33 is formed in the flow path 36 of the first valve core 16, it is possible to rectify the fluid flowing in the first valve core 16. When the first valve core 16 is assembled into the valve chamber 12, the direction of the first valve core 16 can be easily adjusted by applying force to the rib.

[0080] In addition, when the first protrusion 71 is provided at the connection portion of the first flow path 21 connected to the first inlet and outlet 31 of the valve chamber 12, the flow of the fluid in the first flow path 21 is disturbed by the first protrusion 71. Thus, the fluid flowing in the first flow path 21 can be guided to the first inlet and outlet 31. In addition, when the second protrusion 72 is provided at the connection portion of the second flow path 22 connected to the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​of the valve chamber 12, the flow of the fluid in the second flow path 22 can be disturbed by the second protrusion 72, and the fluid flowing in the second flow path 22 can be guided to the second inlet and outlet 32. In this way, the inflow of the fluid from the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 into the valve chamber 12 can be promoted.

[0081] Furthermore, since another valve unit 20 can be overlapped and connected to the side of one valve unit 20 opposite to the rotation drive unit 18 , the degree of freedom in combining the valve units 20 can be increased.

[0082] When the portion of one valve unit 20 that overlaps with the other valve unit 20 is formed as a cover 68 that closes the valve chamber 12 of the other valve unit 20, when the one valve unit 20 is overlapped with the other valve unit 20, no other component is required for closing the valve chamber 12 of the other valve unit 20. Therefore, the increase in the number of components can be suppressed, and the workability when the valve units 20 are overlapped and connected can be improved.

[0083] When the two first valve elements 16 and the second valve elements 17 in the two overlapping valve units 20 are rotated by one rotation drive unit 18 , the number of components and the cost can be reduced compared to when the rotation drive units 18 are provided in the two valve units 20 .

[0084] As described above, according to the present embodiment, flow path switching valves of various specifications can be easily realized.

[0085] [Other embodiments]

[0086] As mentioned above, an example of the embodiment of the present invention has been described, but the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the above content, and it is of course possible to implement it with various modifications other than the above within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0087] Female joints 51 are provided at one end of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22, respectively, and male joints 61 and 62 that can be connected to the female joints 51 are provided at the other ends of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22, respectively. However, a structure without such a joint structure may be sufficient.

[0088] The concave portion 23B is provided in the curved portion 23A of the third flow path 23, but the configuration may be such that the concave portion 23B is not provided. The flow path 36 of the first valve body 16 is formed with a rib, but the configuration may be such that the rib is not provided.

[0089] It is described that the first protrusion 71 is provided at the connection portion of the first flow path 21 connected to the first inlet and outlet 31, and the second protrusion 72 is provided at the connection portion of the second flow path 22 connected to the second inlet and outlet 32. However, either the first protrusion 71 or the second protrusion 72 may be provided, or both the first protrusion 71 and the second protrusion 72 may not be provided.

[0090] The other valve unit 20 can be overlapped and connected on the side of one valve unit 20 opposite to the rotation drive unit 18, but another member may be interposed between the two valve units 20. In addition, such connection may not be possible.

[0091] The center-to-center distance W between the end of the first flow path 21 and the end of the second flow path 22 in one valve unit 20 is equal to the center-to-center distance H between the ends of the first flow path 21 in the overlapping direction when one valve unit 20 is overlapped and connected with other valve units 20 (W=H), but the center-to-center distance W may be different from the center-to-center distance H. In addition, in the above-mentioned flow path switching valve, the valve units 20 are overlapped in two layers, but three or more layers may be overlapped.

[0092] The branch portion 27 communicates with the third inlet and outlet 33 and branches in at least two directions, but may also branch in three or four directions, for example.

[0093] In the upper and lower valve units 20 , the angular positions of the horizontal holes 16A and 16B of the first valve body 16 and the horizontal holes 17A and 17B of the second valve body 17 are aligned, but the positions of the horizontal holes may not be aligned depending on the specifications.

[0094] The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-145623 filed on September 13, 2022 is incorporated into this specification by reference.

[0095] All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described in this specification are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, and technical standard was specifically and individually described as being incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A flow path switching valve, comprising a valve unit, the valve unit comprising: a valve body, the valve body having a valve chamber formed therein, a first inlet and a second inlet formed on a wall surface forming the valve chamber, respectively for fluid inlet and outlet, and a third inlet formed on a bottom surface of the valve chamber; a first valve core rotatably disposed in the valve chamber and forming a flow path; a first flow path connected to the first inlet and outlet; a second flow path arranged in parallel with the first flow path across the valve body and connected to the second inlet and outlet; a branch portion connected to the third inlet and outlet and branching in at least two directions; a third flow path and a fourth flow path, the third flow path and the fourth flow path are respectively connected to the branch portion; and a second valve core, the second valve core is arranged in the branch portion and rotates in conjunction with the first valve core, The communication states of the first inlet and outlet, the second inlet and outlet, and the third inlet and outlet are selectively switched by the flow path of the first valve element, and The communication states among the third port, the third flow path, and the fourth flow path are switched by the second valve element.

2. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein: The first valve core is a ball valve core having a spherical surface, and can switch between a state where the first inlet and the third inlet are connected and a state where the second inlet and the third inlet are connected. The second valve element is a cylindrical valve element having a cylindrical surface, and is capable of switching between a state in which the third port and the third flow path are in communication and a state in which the third port and the fourth flow path are in communication.

3. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein: A rotation driving unit is provided, the rotation driving unit being connected to the valve unit and rotating the first valve element and the second valve element.

4. The flow path switching valve according to claim 3, wherein: The first valve body and the second valve body are connected by a connecting shaft for transmitting a driving force of the rotation drive unit.

5. The flow path switching valve according to claim 3, wherein: One of the valve units is overlapped and connected with the other valve units. The two first valve elements and the two second valve elements in the two valve units are rotated by one rotation drive unit.

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