Switching valve

Abstract

The invention provides a switching valve capable of rotating a rotor without being affected by pressure in a back space. The rotor (60) is provided with a discharge means (60c) for discharging the fluid present in the valve chamber (S) to the outside of the valve chamber (S) between the rotational positions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a switching valve, for example, a switching valve for switching a flow path through which a fluid flows. Background Art

[0002] In various industrial fields, a fluid circuit is used that connects a fluid supply source to a fluid load such as a fluid working device or a heat exchanger through a flow path. In such a fluid circuit, a switching valve that switches the flow path of the working fluid is provided to realize multiple modes of operating the fluid load using one fluid circuit.

[0003] For example, the switching valve in Patent Document 1 includes: a valve housing having an upper valve cover and a lower valve cover; an upper plate and a lower plate which are installed in the valve housing; and a spring which is arranged between the upper plate and the lower plate. The upper valve cover is provided with a first port to a third port, and the lower valve cover is provided with a fourth port and a fifth port. These upper plates and lower plates rotate integrally. In addition, a plurality of through holes and grooves are formed in the upper plate and the lower plate.

[0004] The upper plate and the lower plate have three rotation positions, and the switching valve can be switched to A mode, B mode, and C mode. In the rotation position of the A mode, the high-pressure fluid supplied from the fourth port flows out to the second port, and the fluid supplied from the third port flows out to the fifth port. In the rotation position of the B mode, the high-pressure fluid supplied from the fourth port flows out to the first port, and the fluid supplied from the third port flows out to the fifth port. In the rotation position of the C mode, the high-pressure fluid supplied from the fourth port flows out to the fifth port, and the fluid supplied from the third port flows out to the second port.

[0005] In addition, when the upper plate and the lower plate are in each rotation position, the upper plate and the lower plate are pressed against the upper valve cover and the lower valve cover by the action force of the spring and the fluid pressure between the upper plate and the lower plate, so that sealing can be performed between the upper plate and the upper valve cover, and between the lower plate and the lower valve cover.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-260022 (page 4, Figure 4 ) Summary of the invention

[0009] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0010] However, in a switching valve such as that of Patent Document 1, when shifting from one rotation position to another, for example, from the rotation position of mode A to the rotation position of mode B, the connecting opening area between the port on the inlet side and the port on the outlet side gradually becomes smaller, so the pressure between the two disks gradually increases, and the friction between the upper disk and the upper valve cover, and between the lower disk and the lower valve cover increases, which may cause wear.

[0011] The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a switching valve capable of rotating a rotor without being affected by the pressure in the back space.

[0012] Means for solving problems

[0013] A switching valve comprises: a housing; and

[0014] a rotor disposed in a valve chamber formed inside the housing and rotating relative to the housing,

[0015] The housing is provided with an inlet port communicating with the valve chamber and introducing a fluid, and a outlet port communicating with the valve chamber and leading out the fluid.

[0016] The rotor has a contact surface that contacts the seat surface of the housing, and has a communication port that connects the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0017] The rotor is rotated to obtain a plurality of rotational positions, and the flow path is switched by combining a different inlet and outlet with the communication port at each rotational position.

[0018] The rotor is provided with a discharge unit for discharging the fluid in the valve chamber to the outside of the valve chamber between the rotational positions.

[0019] Thus, the fluid in the valve chamber can be discharged to the outside of the valve chamber by the discharge means while the rotor is rotating from one rotational position to another rotational position, so that the rotor can be rotated without being affected by the pressure outside the valve chamber.

[0020] The discharge unit may be communicated with the lead-out port.

[0021] Thus, the fluid in the valve chamber can be discharged using the outlet port, so the structure of the switching valve can be simplified.

[0022] The discharge means may be a notch groove that connects the outer diameter side of the rotor and the seat surface side.

[0023] Thereby, the discharge unit can be configured simply.

[0024] Alternatively, the housing may be provided with a notch groove, the notch groove extending from the outlet toward the outer diameter side and communicating with the notch groove provided on the rotor.

[0025] Thus, the discharge unit is connected to the outlet through the notch groove extending outward from the outlet, so the structure can be simple. In addition, the discharge unit can be prevented from being connected to the inlet.

[0026] Alternatively, the housing may be provided with a communicating hole, the communicating hole extending from the outlet toward the outer diameter side and communicating with the notch groove provided on the rotor.

[0027] Thus, the discharge unit communicates with the guide port via the communication hole extending to the outside of the guide port, so that the discharge unit can be prevented from communicating with the introduction port.

[0028] The discharge unit may be a through hole that penetrates the rotor in the axial direction.

[0029] Thereby, the discharge unit can be configured simply.

[0030] The discharge unit may be not communicated with the lead-out port at each rotational position of the rotor.

[0031] As a result, the actual function of the switching valve is not impaired when the rotor is moved between the rotational positions.

[0032] Alternatively, a pair of the rotors may be disposed in the valve chamber so as to rotate integrally.

[0033] The discharge unit is provided on at least one of the rotors.

[0034] Thereby, the pressure in the valve chamber can be controlled by the discharge means of the rotor.

[0035] A switching valve comprises: a housing; and

[0036] a rotor disposed in a valve chamber formed inside the housing and rotating relative to the housing,

[0037] The housing is provided with an inlet port communicating with the valve chamber and introducing a fluid, and a outlet port communicating with the valve chamber and leading out the fluid.

[0038] The rotor has a contact surface that contacts the seat surface of the housing, and has a communication port that connects the inlet port and the outlet port.

[0039] The rotor is rotated to obtain a plurality of rotational positions, and the flow path is switched by combining a different inlet and outlet with the communication port at each rotational position.

[0040] Wherein, a discharge unit for discharging the fluid in the valve chamber to the outside of the valve chamber between the rotation positions is provided on the housing.

[0041] Thus, the fluid in the valve chamber can be discharged to the outside of the valve chamber by the discharge means while the rotor is rotating from one rotational position to another rotational position, so that the rotor can be rotated without being affected by the pressure outside the valve chamber. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a switching valve in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 2 is a longitudinal section view of the switching valve;

[0044] Figure 3 is a top view of the shell;

[0045] Figure 4 is a top view of the stator;

[0046] Figure 5 (a) is a top view of the upper rotor, and (b) is a bottom view of the upper rotor;

[0047] Figure 6 (a) is a top view of the lower rotor, and (b) is a bottom view of the lower rotor;

[0048] Figure 7 (a) is a schematic diagram showing a first flow path pattern of the switching valve, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a first rotation position of the upper rotor and the lower rotor;

[0049] Figure 8 (a) is a schematic diagram showing a second flow path pattern of the switching valve, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a second rotational position of the upper rotor and the lower rotor;

[0050] Fig. 9 (a) is a schematic diagram showing a third flow path pattern of the switching valve, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a third rotation position of the upper rotor and the lower rotor;

[0051] Fig.10 (a) is a schematic diagram showing a fourth flow path pattern of the switching valve, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a fourth rotational position of the upper rotor and the lower rotor;

[0052] Fig.11 (a) is a schematic diagram showing the position of the upper rotor and the lower rotor halfway from the first rotation position to the second rotation position as viewed from above, and (b) is an AA cross-sectional view of (a);

[0053] Fig.12 (a) is a schematic diagram showing the position of the upper rotor and the lower rotor in the second embodiment of the present invention halfway from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, as viewed from above, and (b) is a BB cross-sectional view of (a);

[0054] Fig.13 is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the upper rotor and the lower rotor in the middle of the rotation from the first rotation position to the second rotation position in the third embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from above;

[0055] Fig.14 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which a discharge unit is connected to a guide outlet in Embodiment 4 of the present invention;

[0056] Fig.15 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which a discharge unit is connected to a lead-out port in Embodiment 5 of the present invention;

[0057] Fig.16 is a longitudinal sectional view of a switching valve in Embodiment 6 of the present invention;

[0058] Fig.17 is a longitudinal sectional view of a switching valve in Embodiment 7 of the present invention;

[0059] Fig.18 (a) is a schematic diagram showing a first rotational position of a rotor in Example 8 of the present invention, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a position of the rotor halfway from the first rotational position to the second rotational position;

[0060] Fig.19 (a) is a schematic diagram showing a first rotational position of a rotor in Example 9 of the present invention, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a position of the rotor halfway from the first rotational position to the second rotational position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Hereinafter, a mode for implementing the switching valve of the present invention will be described based on examples.

[0062] [Example 1]

[0063] Reference Figures 1 to 11 The switching valve of Example 1 is described below. Figure 2 Specifically, the upper side of the paper where the motor is arranged is the upper side of the switching valve, and the opposite side, that is, the lower side of the paper, is described as the lower side of the switching valve.

[0064] like Figure 1 As shown, the switching valve V of the present invention is used to select one of a plurality of modes of a fluid circuit and to switch a flow path through which a working fluid flows. The switching valve V of the embodiment is an electric motor type rotary valve.

[0065] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the switching valve V is mainly composed of a housing 10 as a fixed-side member, an upper rotor 50 , a lower rotor 60 , and a drive unit 80 .

[0066] The housing 10 is composed of a bottomed cylindrical shell 20 opened downward and a cylindrical stator 30. The shell 20 and the stator 30 are formed of metal material or resin material. The space between the shell 20 and the stator 30 is a valve chamber T in which the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 described later are arranged.

[0067] The housing 20 has a plurality of flanges 20a protruding toward the outer diameter side at the lower end of the outer circumferential surface thereof, which are separated in the circumferential direction. The stator 30 has a plurality of flanges 30a protruding toward the outer diameter side, which are separated in the circumferential direction. The housing 20 and the stator 30 are connected and fixed by fastening the flanges 20a and 30a with bolts (not shown).

[0068] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the bottom 20A of the housing 20 is provided with a first port P1 , a second port P2 , a third port P3 , a fourth port P4 , and an insertion hole 22 penetrating in the up-down direction.

[0069] The insertion hole 22 is provided at the center of the bottom portion 20A, and a rotation shaft 80 a is inserted therethrough as will be described later.

[0070] In addition, the first port P1, the second port P2, the third port P3 and the fourth port P4 are provided on the same circumference at positions on the outer diameter side of the insertion hole 22 and are separated in the circumferential direction. Figure 3 As shown, the first port P1 is set at the 9 o'clock position of the bottom 20A in a top view. The second port P2 is set at the 11 o'clock position of the bottom 20A in a top view. The third port P3 is set at the 1 o'clock position of the bottom 20A in a top view. The fourth port P4 is set at the 3 o'clock position of the bottom 20A in a top view.

[0071] The first port P1 and the third port P3 function as lead-out ports for leading the working fluid in the switching valve V to an external fluid load (not shown).

[0072] The second port P2 and the fourth port P4 function as inlet ports for introducing the working fluid discharged from an external fluid load (not shown) into the switching valve V.

[0073] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, the stator 30 is provided with a fifth port P5 , a sixth port P6 , a seventh port P7 , an eighth port P8 and a recess 31 penetrating in the up-down direction.

[0074] The recessed portion 31 is provided at the center of the stator 30 , and as will be described later, the lower end of the rotating shaft 80 a is loosely inserted therein so as to be able to rotate.

[0075] The fifth port P5, the sixth port P6, the seventh port P7 and the eighth port P8 are provided on the same circumference at positions on the outer diameter side of the recessed portion 31 and are separated in the circumferential direction. Figure 4As shown, the fifth port P5 is set at the 9 o'clock position of the stator 30 in a plan view. The sixth port P6 is set at the 11 o'clock position of the stator 30 in a plan view. The seventh port P7 is set at the 1 o'clock position of the stator 30 in a plan view. The eighth port P8 is set at the 3 o'clock position of the stator 30 in a plan view.

[0076] The fifth port P5 and the seventh port P7 function as introduction ports for introducing the working fluid discharged from an external fluid load (not shown) into the switching valve V.

[0077] The sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 , which are respectively connected to a fluid load (not shown), function as a lead-out port for leading the working fluid in the switching valve V to an external fluid load (not shown).

[0078] The stator 30 is provided with a notched groove 30b extending radially outward from the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 as the lead-out ports. The notched groove 30b communicates with the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 and opens upward.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, the upper rotor 50 is in the shape of a disk. The upper rotor 50 is provided with communication ports A1, A2, A3, A4, a communication groove A5, a through hole 50a and a downward concave portion 50b.

[0080] The through hole 50 a has a rectangular shape in a plan view and is provided in the center portion of the upper rotor 50 .

[0081] The communication ports A1, A2, A3, and A4 are through holes. The communication ports A1, A2, A3, and A4 are circumferentially separated and arranged on the same circumference at positions on the outer diameter side of the through hole 50a. Specifically, the communication port A1 is arranged at the 9 o'clock position of the upper rotor 50 in a plan view. The communication port A2 is arranged at the 11 o'clock position of the upper rotor 50 in a plan view. The communication port A3 is arranged at the 1 o'clock position of the upper rotor 50 in a plan view. The communication port A4 is arranged at the 3 o'clock position of the upper rotor 50 in a plan view.

[0082] The communication groove A5 is a concave groove opened upward and provided on the upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50. The communication groove A5 is substantially fan-shaped and extends in an arc shape when viewed from above. The communication groove A5 is provided at the 5 o'clock to 7 o'clock positions of the upper rotor 50 when viewed from above.

[0083] A plurality of downward recesses 50b are evenly spaced in the circumferential direction on the lower surface of the upper rotor 50. In this embodiment, six downward recesses 50b are circumferentially staggered from the communication ports A1 to A4 and are arranged slightly on the outer diameter side than the communication ports A1 to A4.

[0084] The upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50 is a contact surface that contacts the lower surface 20c serving as a seat surface of the bottom 20A of the housing 20 (see Figure 2 ).

[0085] like Figure 6 The lower rotor 60 is provided with communication ports B1, B2, B3, B4, a communication groove B5, a through hole 60a, an upward concave portion 60b, a notch groove 60c as a discharge unit, and an annular groove 60d.

[0086] The through hole 60 a has a rectangular shape in a plan view and is provided in the center portion of the lower rotor 60 .

[0087] The communication ports B1, B2, B3, and B4 are through holes. The communication ports B1, B2, B3, and B4 are circumferentially separated and arranged on the same circumference at positions on the outer diameter side of the through hole 60a. Specifically, the communication port B1 is arranged at the 9 o'clock position of the lower rotor 60 in a plan view. The communication port B2 is arranged at the 11 o'clock position of the lower rotor 60 in a plan view. The communication port B3 is arranged at the 1 o'clock position of the lower rotor 60 in a plan view. The communication port B4 is arranged at the 3 o'clock position of the lower rotor 60 in a plan view.

[0088] The communication groove B5 is a concave groove opened downward and provided on the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60. The communication groove B5 is substantially fan-shaped and extends in an arc shape when viewed from above. The communication groove B5 is provided at the 5 o'clock to 7 o'clock positions of the lower rotor 60 when viewed from above.

[0089] A plurality of upward recesses 60b are evenly spaced in the circumferential direction on the upper surface of the lower rotor 60. In this embodiment, six upward recesses 60b are circumferentially staggered from the communication ports B1 to B4 and are arranged slightly on the outer diameter side than the communication ports B1 to B4.

[0090] A plurality of notch grooves 60c are evenly arranged on the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60, and six are provided in this embodiment. The notch grooves 60c are staggered from the communication ports B1 to B4 in the circumferential direction. The notch grooves 60c extend from the outer diameter end edge of the lower rotor 60 in the inner diameter direction and open to the outer diameter side and the lower side.

[0091] The annular groove 60d is formed on the upper surface of the lower rotor 60 so as to surround the communication ports B1 to B4. The upper surface of the lower rotor 60 exists between each of the annular grooves 60d and the communication ports B1 to B4.

[0092] The lower surface 60 e of the lower rotor 60 is a contact surface that contacts the upper surface 30 c of the stator 30 as a seat surface.

[0093] like Fig.11As shown in (b), the spring 4 is arranged between each downward concave portion 50b of the upper rotor 50 and each upward concave portion 60b of the lower rotor 60. As a result, the upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50 is pressed against the lower surface 20c of the bottom 20A of the housing 20, and the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60 is pressed against the upper surface 30c of the stator 30.

[0094] In addition, return Figure 2 , the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 are in a state where the communication ports A1 to A4 correspond to the communication ports B1 to B4 in the vertical direction, and the cross-sectional rectangular portion of the rotating shaft 80a is inserted through the through holes 50a and 60a. The cross-sectional shape of the front end of the rotating shaft 80a is circular, and it is inserted into the circular recess 31 of the stator 30 in a rotatable manner when viewed from above. Therefore, the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 rotate integrally through the rotating shaft 80a.

[0095] In addition, O-rings 7 are disposed in the respective annular grooves 60d of the lower rotor 60. The O-rings 7 seal between the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60. Therefore, the communication ports A1 to A4 communicate with the communication ports B1 to B4 in a sealed manner.

[0096] The space between the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 excluding the space in the O-ring 7 is a back space S on the back side of the upper surface 50 e of the upper rotor 50 and the lower surface 60 e of the lower rotor 60 .

[0097] like Figure 2 As shown, the driving unit 80 is sealed and fixed to the housing 10, and drives the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 to rotate. Specifically, the driving unit 80 includes a plurality of gears, a rotating shaft 80a meshing with the gears, and a motor driving them.

[0098] Next, use Figures 7 to 10 The first rotation position, the second rotation position, the third rotation position, and the fourth rotation position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 are described. In addition, for the convenience of description, the housing 20 and the stator 30 are indicated by solid lines, and the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 are indicated by double-dashed lines. In addition, the communication ports A1 to A4, the communication ports B1 to B4, the communication groove A5, and the communication groove B5 of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 are indicated by dots.

[0099] Figure 7 (a) shows the first flow path pattern of the switching valve V. In addition, Figure 7 (b) shows the first rotational positions of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 constituting the first flow path mode of the switching valve V. In the first flow path mode of the switching valve V, the fluid circuit using the switching valve V operates in the first mode.

[0100] Specifically, in the first flow path mode of the switching valve V, the second port P2 is communicated with the sixth port P6 via the communication ports A4 and B4. The fourth port P4 is communicated with the third port P3 via the communication groove A5. The fifth port P5 is communicated with the first port P1 via the communication ports A3 and B3. The seventh port P7 is communicated with the eighth port P8 via the communication groove B5.

[0101] The communication ports A1, A2, B1, and B2 are closed by the housing 20 and the stator 30. In addition, the cutout grooves 60c of the lower rotor 60 are not in communication with the cutout grooves 30b of the stator 30.

[0102] Figure 8 (a) shows the second flow path pattern of the switching valve V. In addition, Figure 8 B shows the second rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 constituting the second flow path mode of the switching valve V. In the second flow path mode of the switching valve V, the fluid circuit operates in the second mode.

[0103] Specifically, in the second flow path mode of the switching valve V, the second port P2 is communicated with the third port P3 via the communication groove A5. The fourth port P4 is communicated with the eighth port P8 via the communication ports A1 and B1. The fifth port P5 is communicated with the first port P1 via the communication ports A4 and B4. The seventh port P7 is communicated with the sixth port P6 via the communication groove B5.

[0104] The communication ports A2, A3, B2, and B3 are closed by the housing 20 and the stator 30. In addition, the cutout grooves 60c of the lower rotor 60 are not in communication with the cutout grooves 30b of the stator 30.

[0105] In addition, the second rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 is a position rotated approximately 60 degrees counterclockwise from the first rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 when viewed from above.

[0106] Fig. 9 (a) shows the third flow path pattern of the switching valve V. In addition, Fig. 9 B shows the third rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 constituting the third flow path mode of the switching valve V. In the third flow path mode of the switching valve V, the fluid circuit operates in the third mode.

[0107] Specifically, in the third flow path mode of the switching valve V, the second port P2 is communicated with the first port P1 via the communication groove A5. The fourth port P4 is communicated with the eighth port P8 via the communication ports A2 and B2. The fifth port P5 is communicated with the sixth port P6 via the communication groove B5. The seventh port P7 is communicated with the third port P3 via the communication ports A1 and B1.

[0108] The communication ports A3, A4, B3, and B4 are closed by the housing 20 and the stator 30. In addition, the cutout grooves 60c of the lower rotor 60 are not in communication with the cutout grooves 30b of the stator 30.

[0109] In addition, the third rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 is a position rotated approximately 60 degrees counterclockwise from the second rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 when viewed from above.

[0110] Fig.10 (a) shows the second flow path pattern of the switching valve V. In addition, Fig.10 (b) shows the fourth rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 constituting the fourth flow path mode of the switching valve V. In the fourth flow path mode of the switching valve V, the fluid circuit operates in the fourth mode.

[0111] Specifically, in the fourth flow path mode of the switching valve V, the second port P2 is communicated with the sixth port P6 via the communication ports A2 and B2. The fourth port P4 is communicated with the eighth port P8 via the communication ports A4 and B4. The fifth port P5 is communicated with the first port P1 via the communication ports A1 and B1. The seventh port P7 is communicated with the third port P3 via the communication ports A3 and B3.

[0112] In addition, the communication grooves A5 and B5 are closed by the housing 20 and the stator 30. In addition, each of the notched grooves 60c of the lower rotor 60 is not communicated with the notched grooves 30b of the stator 30.

[0113] In addition, the fourth rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 is a position rotated approximately 120 degrees counterclockwise from the third rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 when viewed from above.

[0114] Thus, the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 rotate within a range between the first rotation position to the fourth rotation position, that is, within a range of approximately 240 degrees.

[0115] In addition, at each rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 , the notch groove 60 c of the lower rotor 60 is not in communication with the notch groove 30 b of the stator 30 .

[0116] In such a switching valve V, the force of the spring 4 may sometimes be overcome due to vibration or the like, causing the upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50 to instantly move in a direction away from the lower surface 20c of the bottom 20A of the shell 20, or the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60 to instantly move in a direction away from the upper surface 30c of the stator 30.

[0117] In this case, the working fluid flows into the back space S from the second port P2, the fourth port P4, the fifth port P5, and the seventh port P7 serving as the inlet through the space in the housing 10. Therefore, in addition to the force of the spring 4, the pressure in the back space S also acts on the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60, so that the friction between the upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50 and the lower surface 20c of the bottom 20A of the housing 20, and the friction between the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60 and the upper surface 30c of the stator 30 increases, and there is a possibility that the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 will be worn when they rotate between the rotation positions.

[0118] In the switching valve V of the first embodiment, the pressure in the back space S is reduced while the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 are rotating from one rotation position to another rotation position. Here, the first rotation position, the second rotation position, the third rotation position, and the fourth rotation position described below are a plurality of rotation positions in the present invention.

[0119] Next, based on Fig.11 A method of reducing the pressure in the back space S will be described. Here, a method of rotating the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 from the first rotation position to the second rotation position will be described.

[0120] like Fig.11 , shows an intermediate position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 during rotation from the first rotation position to the second rotation position. Specifically, when viewed from above, the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 are shown in a state where they are rotated approximately 30 degrees counterclockwise from the first rotation position.

[0121] like Fig.11 As shown in (a) and (b), when the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 are rotated approximately 30 degrees counterclockwise from the first rotation position, the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60 overlaps and communicates with the notch groove 30b of the stator 30 in the circumferential direction.

[0122] The two notch grooves 30b are connected to the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 as the discharge port and constitute a part of the discharge port, so the working fluid in the back space S is discharged to the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 through the notch grooves 60c and 30b.

[0123] In this case, the communication ports A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 are not in communication with the first port P1 , the third port P3 , the sixth port P6 , and the eighth port P8 as the lead-out ports.

[0124] Therefore, when the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 move between the rotational positions, the original function of the switching valve 1 is not affected, such as insufficient flow rate of the guided working fluid.

[0125] Although not shown, the notched groove 60 c of the lower rotor 60 communicates with the notched groove 30 b of the stator 30 between the second rotational position and the third rotational position and between the third rotational position and the fourth rotational position.

[0126] As described above, between the rotational positions of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60, the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60 is connected to the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 serving as the outlets, so that the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 can be rotated without being affected by the pressure in the back space S.

[0127] In addition, at each rotational position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60, the pressure in the back space S is maintained without decreasing, so the force generated by the pressure of the fluid in the back space S acts on the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60 together with the urging force of the spring 4. As a result, the upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50 is reliably pressed against the lower surface 20c of the bottom 20A of the housing 20, and the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60 is reliably pressed against the upper surface 30c of the stator 30.

[0128] In addition, at the middle position between the rotation positions, the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60 is connected to the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8, so the time from releasing the pressure of the back space S to the next rotation position is uniformed, which can suppress the wear of the upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50 and the lower surface 20c of the shell 20, and the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60 and the upper surface 30c of the stator 30.

[0129] Furthermore, since the working fluid in the back space S is discharged to the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8, it is not necessary to separately provide a discharge port for discharging the working fluid in the back space S, and the structure of the switching valve V can be simplified.

[0130] In addition, the notched groove 60c communicates the outer diameter side with the upper surface 30c side of the stator 30. In this way, the notched groove 60c can be simply configured.

[0131] In addition, the housing 10 is provided with a notch groove 30b that connects the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 to the lower surface 60e side of the lower rotor 60. Thus, the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60 is connected to the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 via the notch groove 30b of the stator 30 that is extended outward from the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8, thereby preventing the notch groove 60c from connecting to the fifth port P5 and the seventh port P7.

[0132] In addition, the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60 is not connected to the notch groove 30b of the stator 30 at each rotation position of the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60. Therefore, at each rotation position, the surface pressure between the upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50 and the lower surface 20c of the housing 20, and the surface pressure between the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60 and the upper surface 30c of the stator 30 are ensured, thereby preventing the working fluid from leaking from the inlet to the space inside the housing 10. Therefore, the original function of the switching valve 1 is not affected, such as insufficient flow rate of the working fluid led out to the outlet.

[0133] In addition, when the communication ports A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 are in communication with the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8, the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60 is not in communication with the notch groove 30b of the stator 30. Therefore, when the communication ports A1 to A4 and B1 to B4 are in communication with the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8, the working fluid in the back space S is not discharged to the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8, so that the change in the flow rate of the working fluid to the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 can be suppressed, and the original function of the switching valve 1 is not affected.

[0134] In addition, the housing 10 is provided with a lower surface 20c of the housing 20 and an upper surface 30c of the stator 30, and a pair of upper rotors 50 and lower rotors 60 are arranged in the housing 10 to rotate integrally, and a back space S is formed between the upper rotor 50 and the lower rotor 60. Thus, the surface pressure between the upper surface 50e of the upper rotor 50 and the lower surface 20c of the housing 20 and the surface pressure between the lower surface 60e of the lower rotor 60 and the upper surface 30c of the stator 30 can be ensured by the pressure in the back space S, and the pressure in the back space S can be controlled by the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60.

[0135] In addition, in the first embodiment, two notch grooves 30b are provided, but the number of notch grooves 30b can be freely changed. For example, the notch groove 30b can be provided at least one of the outlets provided on the stator 30 side. In addition, the discharge port can also be provided on the housing 20. In this case, the discharge unit can be provided on the upper rotor 50.

[0136] In addition, as long as the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60 can communicate with the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 as the outlet ports during the movement between the rotation positions, the notch groove 30b can be omitted. For example, the diameter of the outlet port can be made larger than the diameter of the inlet port so as to communicate with the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60.

[0137] [Example 2]

[0138] Next, refer to Fig.12 The switching valve of the second embodiment will be described. In addition, the description of the same structure as the first embodiment and the overlapping structure will be omitted.

[0139] like Fig.12 As shown in (a), the switching valve V2 of the second embodiment can reduce the pressure in the back space S at a position halfway when the upper rotor 250 and the lower rotor 260 rotate from the first rotation position to the second rotation position.

[0140] like Fig.12 As shown in (b), the lower rotor 260 is provided with a through hole 260c as a discharge unit that passes from the outer peripheral surface of the lower rotor 260 to the lower surface 260e side. The opening portion of the through hole 260c on the lower surface 260e side is connected to the notch groove 30b of the stator 30 at a position halfway from the first rotation position to the second rotation position.

[0141] [Example 3]

[0142] Next, refer to Fig.13 A switching valve according to Embodiment 3 will be described. In addition, descriptions of structures that are the same as those of Embodiment 1 and overlap with each other will be omitted.

[0143] like Fig.13 As shown, in the switching valve V3 of this third embodiment, the circumferential widths of the notch groove 330b of the stator 330 and the notch groove 360c of the lower rotor 360 are larger than the circumferential widths of the notch groove 30b of the stator 30 and the notch groove 60c of the lower rotor 60 of the first embodiment.

[0144] Thus, the back space S (see Figure 2 ) The pressure inside is reduced. In this way, the width of the notch slot of the rotor and the width of the notch slot of the stator can be freely changed.

[0145] [Example 4]

[0146] Next, refer to Fig.14 The switching valve of the fourth embodiment is described. In addition, the description of the same structure as that of the first embodiment is omitted. In addition, for the convenience of description, Fig.14 Only the lower rotor 460 and the stator 430 are schematically illustrated in FIG.

[0147] like Fig.14 As shown, in the notch groove 460c of the lower rotor 460 of the fourth embodiment, the bottom surface 460f thereof is an inclined surface inclined so as to become shallower toward the inner diameter side.

[0148] In addition, in the notch groove 430b of the stator 430, the bottom surface 430d thereof is an inclined surface inclined so as to become shallower toward the outer diameter side. The bottom surface 430d is substantially parallel to the bottom surface 460f.

[0149] Thus, since almost no step is formed in the flow path between the back space S and the sixth port P6, the working fluid in the back space S can be smoothly guided to the sixth port P6.

[0150] In addition, the bottom surface 460f and the bottom surface 430d are not limited to a straight plane shape, but may be a curved surface shape.

[0151] [Example 5]

[0152] Next, refer to Fig.15 The switching valve of the fifth embodiment is described. In addition, the description of the same structure as the fourth embodiment and the same structure as the fourth embodiment is omitted. In addition, for the convenience of description, Fig.15 Only the lower rotor 560 and the stator 530 are schematically illustrated in FIG.

[0153] like Fig.15 As shown, the inner diameter end of the bottom surface 530d of the notch groove 530b of the stator 530 of the fifth embodiment extends linearly to the lower opening of the sixth port P6.

[0154] Thus, the flow path between the back space S and the sixth port P6 expands toward the sixth port P6 , so that the working fluid in the back space S can be smoothly guided to the sixth port P6 .

[0155] [Example 6]

[0156] Next, refer to Fig.16 The switching valve of the sixth embodiment will be described. In addition, the description of the same structure as that of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0157] like Fig.16 As shown, the switching valve V6 of this embodiment 6 is mainly composed of a housing 610 and a rotor 660.

[0158] The housing 620 constituting the casing 610 is provided with one introduction port P10 .

[0159] A plurality of (two in the sixth embodiment) outlets P11 and P12 are provided on the stator 630 constituting the housing 610. The outlets P11 and P12 are provided with notch grooves 630b extending toward the outer diameter side.

[0160] The rotor 660 is provided with two notched grooves 660 c and a communication port (not shown).

[0161] The rotor 660 has two rotational positions. When the rotor 660 moves between the rotational positions, each notch groove 660c communicates with each notch groove 630b. Thus, the pressure in the back space S can be reduced.

[0162] In addition, at each rotational position of the rotor 660, the pressure in the back space S is maintained without decreasing, so the force generated by the pressure of the fluid in the back space S acts on the rotor 660 together with the biasing force of the spring. Thus, the rotor 660 is reliably pressed against the stator 630.

[0163] [Example 7]

[0164] Next, refer to Fig.17 The switching valve of the seventh embodiment will be described. In addition, the description of the same structure as that of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0165] like Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 1 , the notch groove 730b of the switching valve V7 of the present embodiment 7 extends from the eighth port P8 to the inner diameter side. The notch groove 730b is connected to the eighth port P8 and opens to the upper side. In addition, although not shown in the figure, the notch groove 730b is also provided at the sixth port P6 (refer to FIG. Figure 4 ).

[0166] A through hole 760c serving as a discharge unit is provided in the lower rotor 760. The through hole 760c is disposed on the inner diameter side of the eighth port P8.

[0167] When the upper rotor 750 and the lower rotor 760 are located at an intermediate position halfway between the first rotation position and the second rotation position, the through hole 760c of the lower rotor 760 overlaps and communicates with the notch groove 730b of the stator 730.

[0168] Thus, the working fluid in the back space S is discharged to the eighth port P8 through the through hole 760c and the notch groove 730b. Thus, the pressure in the back space S can be reduced.

[0169] [Example 8]

[0170] Next, refer to Fig.18 The switching valve of the eighth embodiment will be described. In addition, the description of the same structure as that of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0171] like Fig.18 As shown in (a) and (b), the upper rotor 850 and the lower rotor 860 in the switching valve V8 of the present embodiment 8 are regular hexagons when viewed from above.

[0172] like Fig.18 As shown in (a), when the upper rotor 850 and the lower rotor 860 are in the first rotation position, the notch groove 830b serving as the discharge unit is closed by the lower rotor 860.

[0173] like Fig.18As shown in (b), when the upper rotor 850 and the lower rotor 860 are in the middle position of rotating from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, the notch groove 830b is connected to the back space S.

[0174] Even if a discharge unit such as a notch groove is not formed on the lower rotor 860 as in the eighth embodiment, the pressure in the back space S can be reduced by providing the notch groove 830 b on the casing side.

[0175] In addition, in the present eighth embodiment, the upper rotor 850 and the lower rotor 860 are exemplified as being in the form of a regular hexagon, but they can also be freely changed to other polygons, waveforms with curved sides of polygons, shapes in which a part of a circle is recessed in the inner diameter direction, etc.

[0176] [Example 9]

[0177] Next, refer to Fig.19 A switching valve according to Embodiment 9 will be described. In addition, descriptions of structures that are the same as those of Embodiment 1 and overlap with each other will be omitted.

[0178] like Fig.19 As shown in (a) and (b), the second port P2', the sixth port P6', the fourth port P4', and the eighth port P8' of the switching valve V9 of the ninth embodiment are arranged on the outer diameter side than the second port P2, the sixth port P6, the fourth port P4, and the eighth port P8 of the first embodiment.

[0179] like Fig.19 As shown in (a), when the upper rotor 950 and the lower rotor 960 are in the first rotation position, the second port P2' is connected to the sixth port P6' through the connecting ports A4 and B4, the fourth port P4' is connected to the third port P3 through the connecting groove A5, and the seventh port P7 is connected to the eighth port P8' through the connecting groove B5.

[0180] like Fig.19 As shown in (b), when the upper rotor 950 and the lower rotor 960 are at an intermediate position halfway from the first rotation position to the second rotation position, the two notch grooves 960c provided on the lower rotor 960 are connected to the sixth port P6' and the eighth port P8'.

[0181] Even if a discharge unit such as a notch groove is not formed on the casing side as in the ninth embodiment, the pressure in the back space S can be reduced by the two notch grooves 960 c provided on the lower rotor 960 .

[0182] In addition, in the present embodiment 9, the sixth port P6' and the eighth port P8' are provided at the outer diameter side than the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 of the embodiment 1, but the diameters of the sixth port P6' and the eighth port P8' may be larger than those of the sixth port P6 and the eighth port P8 of the embodiment 1. That is, it is sufficient to provide a part of the sixth port P6' and the eighth port P8' at the position communicating with the discharge unit on the rotor side.

[0183] As mentioned above, although the embodiment of the present invention is described based on the drawings, the specific structure is not limited to these embodiments, and even if there are changes and additions within the scope that does not depart from the gist of the present invention, they are also included in the present invention.

[0184] For example, in the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 6, the discharge port is exemplified as the lead-out port, but the discharge port may be separately provided on the housing in addition to the lead-out port and the lead-in port.

[0185] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 5 and 7, the discharge unit is provided on the lower rotor, but the discharge unit may be provided on the upper rotor to discharge the working fluid from the discharge port provided on the upper part of the housing. In addition, the discharge unit may be provided on both the upper rotor and the lower rotor.

[0186] In addition, the number of the inlet and outlet can be freely changed. Specifically, at least one inlet and at least two outlets can be provided. In addition, the communication port provided on the rotor can also be freely changed.

[0187] In addition, the communication opening provided in the rotor is not limited to a through hole, and may be a notch or the like.

[0188] In addition, in the above-mentioned Embodiment 1 and Embodiments 3 to 6, the discharge means is exemplified as a notch groove, but the discharge means may be freely changed as in Embodiment 2.

[0189] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 6, the guide function part that guides the working fluid flowing into the discharge unit to the guide outlet is illustrated as a notch groove set on the shell, but it is not limited to this. As long as it is arranged on the rotation track of the discharge unit, the shape of the guide function part can also be freely changed.

[0190] Furthermore, in the above-described first to sixth embodiments, when the outlet port is communicated with the communication port, the discharge unit and the outlet port are not communicated with each other, but they may be partially communicated with each other.

[0191] Furthermore, in the above-described first to ninth embodiments, the rotor is described as being formed in a disc shape, but the present invention is not limited thereto and may be in a C-shape, a fan-shaped shape, or the like, and the shape may be changed as appropriate.

[0192] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 9, the configuration in which the rotor is rotated by the motor is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto and may be manually driven or may be appropriately changed to a driving source other than a motor.

[0193] In the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 9, the fixed side member is a housing composed of a housing and a stator, but the fixed side member may also include members other than the housing and the stator. For example, a member having a guide port and a seat surface may be fixed to the housing or the stator.

[0194] Explanation of symbols

[0195] 4: Spring;

[0196] 10: Shell (fixed side part);

[0197] 20: Shell;

[0198] 20c: lower surface (seat surface);

[0199] 30: stator;

[0200] 30b: notch groove (discharge outlet);

[0201] 30c: upper surface (seat surface);

[0202] 50: upper rotor;

[0203] 50e: upper surface (contact surface);

[0204] 60: lower rotor;

[0205] 60c: notch groove (discharge unit);

[0206] 60d: annular groove;

[0207] 60e: lower surface (abutment surface);

[0208] A1 to A4: connecting ports;

[0209] A5: communication groove (communication port);

[0210] B1 to B4: connecting ports;

[0211] B5: communication groove (communication port);

[0212] P1: first port (export port);

[0213] P2: second port (introduction port);

[0214] P3: The third port (export port);

[0215] P4: the fourth port (introduction port);

[0216] P5: fifth port (introduction port);

[0217] P6: sixth port (export port);

[0218] P7: seventh port (introduction port);

[0219] P8: The eighth port (export port);

[0220] S: back space;

[0221] T: valve chamber;

[0222] V: Switching valve.

Claims

1. A switching valve, comprising: Housing; and a rotor disposed in a valve chamber formed inside the housing and rotating relative to the housing, The housing is provided with an inlet port communicating with the valve chamber and introducing a fluid, and a outlet port communicating with the valve chamber and leading out the fluid. The rotor has a contact surface that contacts the seat surface of the housing, and has a communication port that connects the inlet port and the outlet port. The rotor is rotated to obtain a plurality of rotational positions, and the flow path is switched by combining a different inlet and outlet with the communication port at each rotational position. in, The rotor is provided with a discharge unit for discharging the fluid existing in the valve chamber to the outside of the valve chamber between the rotational positions.

2. The switching valve according to claim 1, wherein: The discharge unit is communicated with the lead-out port.

3. The switching valve according to claim 1, wherein: The discharge means is a notch groove that connects the outer diameter side of the rotor and the seat surface side.

4. The switching valve according to claim 3, wherein: The housing is provided with a notch groove, which extends from the outlet toward the outer diameter side and communicates with the notch groove provided on the rotor.

5. The switching valve according to claim 3, wherein: The housing is provided with a communicating hole, which extends from the outlet toward the outer diameter side and is communicated with the notch groove provided on the rotor.

6. The switching valve according to claim 1, wherein: The discharge unit is a through hole that penetrates the rotor in the axial direction.

7. The switching valve according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The discharge unit is not in communication with the lead-out port at each rotational position of the rotor.

8. The switching valve according to claim 1, wherein: A pair of rotors are arranged in the valve chamber to rotate integrally. The discharge unit is provided on at least one of the rotors.

9. A switching valve, comprising: Housing; and a rotor disposed in a valve chamber formed inside the housing and rotating relative to the housing, The housing is provided with an inlet port communicating with the valve chamber and introducing a fluid, and a outlet port communicating with the valve chamber and leading out the fluid. The rotor has a contact surface that contacts the seat surface of the housing, and has a communication port that connects the inlet port and the outlet port. The rotor is rotated to obtain a plurality of rotational positions, and the flow path is switched by combining a different inlet and outlet with the communication port at each rotational position. in, The housing is provided with a discharge unit for discharging the fluid in the valve chamber toward the outside of the valve chamber between the rotational positions.

Images