Fluid control valve

Abstract

The housing (10) has a cylindrical section (11), a bottom section (12) provided on one side in the axial direction of the cylindrical section (11), and a port (13) penetrating through the outer wall (14) and the inner wall (16) of the cylindrical section (11), the valve (40) is provided on the inside of the housing (10) so as to be rotatable about a predetermined axis (CL), the seal member (50) is provided between the inner wall (16) of the housing (10) and the valve (40), and the surface (51) on the housing (10) side of the seal member (50) is in contact with the peripheral edge section (131) of the port (13) in the inner wall (16) of the housing (10). And a cover (20) in which a surface (52) on the valve (40) side is in sliding contact with a side wall (41) of the valve (40), the cover (20) closing an opening on the other side in the axial direction of the cylindrical section (11) of the housing (10), and a cover-side restricting section (26) provided on the inside of the cover (20) and restricting the movement of the seal member (50) to the inside in the radial direction and the other side in the axial direction of the cylindrical section (11).

Description

[0001] Cross-references between related applications

[0002] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-212180 filed on December 28, 2022, Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-212181 filed on December 28, 2022, Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-212182 filed on December 28, 2022, Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-212183 filed on December 28, 2022, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-212184 filed on December 28, 2022, and the contents thereof are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to fluid control valves. Background Art

[0004] Conventionally, there is known a fluid control valve that controls the flow of a fluid by switching between communication and interruption between a plurality of ports provided in a housing.

[0005] The fluid control valve described in Patent Document 1 is constructed as follows: a cylindrical valve is rotatably arranged within a bottomed cylindrical housing with multiple ports, interposed between a sealing member, and a cover seals the opening on the side of the housing opposite the bottom. The sealing member is positioned in the area where the multiple ports are formed. It is physically compressed in the thickness direction by the housing and the valve, forming a tight fit between them, thereby preventing leakage of fluid between the multiple flow paths within the housing. The sealing member's movement in the radial direction of the housing is restricted by a recessed portion provided in the bottom of the housing, and its movement in the circumferential direction of the housing is restricted by a stepped portion provided in the cylindrical portion of the housing.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2022 / 218407 Summary of the Invention

[0009] However, the fluid control valve described in Patent Document 1 does not have a structure that restricts the cover-side portion of the sealing component from moving radially inwardly of the housing. Therefore, if the curvature radius of the sealing component in the component state is larger than the curvature radius of the inner wall of the housing (for example, if the sealing component is planar before being assembled to the housing), the sliding resistance between the sealing component and the valve increases due to the restoring force that restores the sealing component to a planar shape. Therefore, as an actuator to drive the valve, a high-power motor, a speed reduction mechanism with a high reduction ratio, etc. are required. In addition to causing the actuator to be larger, it also causes an increase in the operating sound, power consumption, and electrical noise during valve rotation.

[0010] Furthermore, if the pressing force between the inner wall of the housing and the sealing member decreases due to the force attempting to restore the sealing member to a flat shape, the sealing performance decreases, and the amount of fluid leakage between the plurality of flow paths in the housing increases.

[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to reduce the amount of fluid leakage between a plurality of flow paths in a housing of a fluid control valve and to reduce torque during valve rotation.

[0012] According to one viewpoint of the present disclosure, a fluid control valve comprises: a shell having a cylindrical portion, a bottom portion arranged on one axial side of the cylindrical portion, and a port passing through the outer wall and the inner wall of the cylindrical portion; a valve rotatably arranged on the inner side of the shell around a predetermined axis, and having a flow path recessed from the radially outer side wall toward the axial side; a sealing component arranged between the inner wall of the shell and the valve, with the surface on the shell side abutting against the peripheral portion of the port in the inner wall of the shell, and the surface on the valve side slidingly contacting the side wall of the valve; a cover sealing the opening on the other axial side of the cylindrical portion of the shell; and a cover-side limiting portion arranged on the inner side of the cover to limit the movement of the sealing component toward the radial inner side and the other axial side of the cylindrical portion.

[0013] Thus, during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, after the sealing component and valve are inserted into the housing, the cover is assembled to the housing, and the cover-side restricting portion prevents the sealing component from shifting. Furthermore, even after the cover is assembled to the housing, the cover-side restricting portion prevents the sealing component from shifting. Consequently, the sidewall of the valve and the sealing component slide in contact with minimal sliding resistance, while the inner wall of the housing and the sealing component remain in contact, thereby ensuring a tight seal within the housing to prevent fluid leakage between flow paths.

[0014] Furthermore, the cover-side restricting portion prevents the sealing member from moving radially inwardly of the cylindrical portion, thereby preventing an increase in sliding resistance between the valve sidewall and the sealing member during valve rotation. This reduces torque during valve rotation. Consequently, the fluid control valve can miniaturize the actuator that drives the valve and reduce operating noise, power consumption, and electrical noise during valve rotation.

[0015] Note that the parenthesized reference numerals attached to the respective components and the like represent an example of a correspondence relationship between the components and the like and specific components and the like described in the embodiments described later. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 It is a front view of the fluid control valve according to the first and sixth embodiments.

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view in direction II.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 Plan view of direction III.

[0019] Figure 4 is Figure 3 A cross-sectional view with the actuator removed along line IV-IV in FIG.

[0020] Figure 5 It is a side view of the valve showing only the fluid control valve.

[0021] Figure 6 It is a front view showing only the housing of the fluid control valve.

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Plan view of the VII direction.

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view along line VIII-VIII.

[0024] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Magnified view of section IX in FIG.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a bottom view of the fluid control valve when only the cover is viewed from the housing side.

[0026] Figure 11 It is a perspective view showing only the sealing member in a state removed from the housing.

[0027] Figure 12 It is a perspective view showing only the sealing member in a state of being assembled to the housing.

[0028] Figure 13 It is a plan view showing a state in which the housing and the sealing member are assembled.

[0029] Figure 14 This is an explanatory diagram for explaining how a planar sealing member is bent and assembled to a housing.

[0030] Figure 15 It is shown in Figure 11 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the sealing member in a state before being assembled into the housing, taken along line XV-XV in FIG.

[0031] Figure 16 It is shown in Figure 11 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the sealing member in a state before being assembled into the housing, taken along line XVI-XVI in FIG.

[0032] Figure 17 It is shown in Figure 114 is a cross-sectional view of another example of the sealing member before being assembled into the housing, taken along line XVI-XVI in FIG.

[0033] Figure 18 It is shown in Figure 11 4 is a cross-sectional view of another example of the sealing member before being assembled into the housing, taken along line XVI-XVI in FIG.

[0034] Figure 19 It is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a second embodiment.

[0035] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Plan view in the XX direction.

[0036] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 Cross-sectional view of line XXI-XXI in FIG.

[0037] Figure 22 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a third embodiment.

[0038] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 Cross-sectional view along line XXIII-XXIII.

[0039] Figure 24 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a fourth embodiment.

[0040] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 Magnified view of section XXV in FIG.

[0041] Figure 26 It is a plan view of a fluid control valve according to a fifth embodiment.

[0042] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 Cross-sectional view of line XXVII-XXVII in FIG.

[0043] Figure 28 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a seventh embodiment.

[0044] Figure 29 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to an eighth embodiment.

[0045] Figure 30 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a ninth embodiment.

[0046] Figure 31 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a tenth embodiment.

[0047] Figure 32It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to an eleventh embodiment.

[0048] Figure 33 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a twelfth embodiment.

[0049] Figure 34 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a thirteenth embodiment.

[0050] Figure 35 It is a front view of a fluid control valve according to fourteenth and nineteenth embodiments.

[0051] Figure 36 It is a side view of a fluid control valve according to fourteenth and nineteenth embodiments.

[0052] Figure 37 It is a plan view of a fluid control valve according to fourteenth and nineteenth embodiments.

[0053] Figure 38 yes Figure 37 The XXXVIII-XXXVIII cross-sectional view is shown.

[0054] Figure 39 It is a front view of the casing involved in the fourteenth and nineteenth embodiments.

[0055] Figure 40 It is from Figure 39 This is a top view of the housing according to the fourteenth embodiment as viewed in the direction of the arrow shown in XL.

[0056] Figure 41 These are diagrams for explaining openings according to the fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments.

[0057] Figure 42 These are diagrams showing valves according to fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments.

[0058] Figure 43 yes Figure 35 The XLIII-XLIII cross-sectional view is shown.

[0059] Figure 44 It is a circumferential development view of the valve according to the fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments.

[0060] Figure 45 These are diagrams for explaining fluid passages according to the fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments.

[0061] Figure 46 These are diagrams showing states in which a sealing member is attached to a housing according to the fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments.

[0062] Figure 47 These are diagrams showing states before the sealing members according to the fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments are attached to the housing.

[0063] Figure 48 These are diagrams showing states in which the sealing members according to the fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments are attached to a housing.

[0064] Figure 49 It is a diagram for explaining the ninth fluid passage according to the fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments.

[0065] Figure 50 These are diagrams for explaining the fluid flowing in the ninth fluid passage according to the fourteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-second embodiments.

[0066] Figure 51 It is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a fifteenth embodiment.

[0067] Figure 52 It is a diagram showing a state before the sealing member according to the fifteenth embodiment is attached to the housing.

[0068] Figure 53 It is a diagram showing a valve according to a fifteenth embodiment.

[0069] Figure 54 It is a diagram for explaining a fluid flowing in an eleventh fluid passage according to the fifteenth embodiment.

[0070] Figure 55 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a sixteenth embodiment.

[0071] Figure 56 yes Figure 55 LVI-LVI cross-sectional view shown.

[0072] Figure 57 It is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a seventeenth embodiment.

[0073] Figure 58 It is a plan view of a fluid control valve according to a seventeenth embodiment.

[0074] Figure 59 yes Figure 58 The LIX-LIX cross-sectional view is shown.

[0075] Figure 60 It is a plan view of a fluid control valve according to a modification of the seventeenth embodiment.

[0076] Figure 61 yes Figure 60 LXI-LXI cross-sectional view shown.

[0077] Figure 62 It is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to an eighteenth embodiment.

[0078] Figure 63 This is a diagram showing a state in which a fluid flowing in from one of two openings arranged in the circumferential direction flows out from the other opening.

[0079] Figure 64 This is a diagram showing the shape of a valve that allows a fluid to flow through two openings arranged in a circumferential direction.

[0080] Figure 65 This is a diagram showing a state in which a fluid flowing in from one of two openings arranged in the axial direction flows out from the other opening.

[0081] Figure 66 This is a diagram showing the shape of a valve that allows a fluid to flow through two openings arranged in the axial direction.

[0082] Figure 67 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from one opening flows out from two openings.

[0083] Figure 68 This is a diagram showing another example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from one opening flows out from two openings.

[0084] Figure 69 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from two openings flows out from one opening.

[0085] Figure 70 This is a diagram showing another example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from two openings flows out from one opening.

[0086] Figure 71 The diagram shows the shape of a valve that causes a fluid flowing in through one opening to flow out through two openings, or causes a fluid flowing in through two openings to flow out through one opening.

[0087] Figure 72 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from three openings flows out from two openings.

[0088] Figure 73 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from two openings flows out from three openings.

[0089] Figure 74 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from one opening flows out from four openings.

[0090] Figure 75 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from four openings flows out from one opening.

[0091] Figure 76 The diagram shows the shape of a valve that causes a fluid flowing in through three openings to flow out through two openings, or causes a fluid flowing in through two openings to flow out through three openings.

[0092] Figure 77 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from one opening flows out from six openings.

[0093] Figure 78 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from six openings flows out from one opening.

[0094] Figure 79 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from three openings flows out from four openings.

[0095] Figure 80 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which fluid flowing in from five openings flows out from two openings.

[0096] Figure 81 This is a diagram showing the shape of a valve that causes a fluid flowing in from one opening to flow out from six openings, or causes a fluid flowing in from six openings to flow out from one opening.

[0097] Figure 82 This is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a fluid flowing in from one opening flows out from seven openings.

[0098] Figure 83 This is a diagram showing the shape of a valve that allows a fluid flowing in from one opening to flow out from seven openings.

[0099] Figure 84 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no rib is formed in a valve that allows a fluid to flow through two openings arranged in a circumferential direction.

[0100] Figure 85 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no ribs are formed in a valve that allows a fluid to flow through two openings arranged in the axial direction.

[0101] Figure 86 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no ribs are formed in a valve that allows a fluid to flow through three openings arranged in a circumferential direction.

[0102] Figure 87 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no ribs are formed in a valve that allows a fluid to flow through three openings arranged in the axial direction.

[0103] Figure 88 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no rib is formed in a valve in which openings for fluid outflow are provided in the axial direction and in the circumferential direction relative to an opening for fluid inflow.

[0104] Figure 89 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no rib is formed in a valve in which openings for fluid outflow are provided in the axial direction and in the circumferential direction relative to an opening for fluid inflow.

[0105] Figure 90 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no rib is formed in a valve in which an opening for fluid outflow is provided in the circumferential direction relative to an opening for fluid inflow.

[0106] Figure 91 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no rib is formed in a valve in which an opening for fluid outflow is provided in the axial direction relative to an opening for fluid inflow.

[0107] Figure 92 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no ribs are formed in a valve having openings arranged in the axial direction and the circumferential direction for allowing fluid to flow in, and openings arranged in the circumferential direction for allowing fluid to flow out.

[0108] Figure 93 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no ribs are formed in a valve having openings arranged in the circumferential direction for allowing fluid to flow in, and openings arranged in the axial direction and the circumferential direction for allowing fluid to flow out.

[0109] Figure 94 This is a diagram for explaining a portion in a valve where no rib is formed, in which a fluid flows around portions opposing openings that are not adjacent to each other.

[0110] Figure 95 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no rib is formed in a valve in which a fluid flows around a portion facing a plurality of openings that are not adjacent to each other, thereby bypassing the openings.

[0111] Figure 96 This is a diagram for explaining a portion where no rib is formed in a valve in which a fluid flows around a portion facing a plurality of openings that are not adjacent to each other, thereby bypassing the openings.

[0112] Figure 97 It is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a twentieth embodiment.

[0113] Figure 98 This is a diagram showing a state of a sealing member according to a twentieth embodiment before being attached to a housing.

[0114] Figure 99 It is a diagram showing a valve according to a twentieth embodiment.

[0115] Figure 100 It is a development view in the circumferential direction of a valve according to a twentieth embodiment.

[0116] Figure 101 It is a diagram for explaining a fluid passage according to a twentieth embodiment.

[0117] Figure 102A It is a diagram for explaining a gap flow channel according to a twentieth embodiment.

[0118] Figure 102B It is a diagram for explaining a gap flow channel according to a twentieth embodiment.

[0119] Figure 103 It is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a twenty-first embodiment.

[0120] Figure 104 yes Figure 103 The CIV-CIV cross-sectional view is shown.

[0121] Figure 105 This is a diagram for explaining a portion of the fluid control valve where no rib is formed when a clearance flow path is formed in the valve.

[0122] Figure 106 This is a diagram for explaining a portion of the fluid control valve where no rib is formed when a clearance flow path is formed in the valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0123] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in each of the following embodiments, identical or equivalent parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in an embodiment, when only a portion of a component is described, the components described in the previous embodiment can be applied to the remaining components. The following embodiments can partially combine the various embodiments with one another, even without specific indication, as long as such combinations are not particularly hindered.

[0124] (First embodiment)

[0125] A first embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The fluid control valve of this embodiment controls the flow of fluids of different properties flowing through a plurality of fluid passages (not shown). The fluids of different properties are, for example, cooling water of different temperatures.

[0126] like Figures 1 to 4As shown, the fluid control valve includes a housing 10 , a cover 20 , an actuator 30 , a valve 40 , a sealing member 50 , a cover-side restricting portion 26 , a housing-side restricting portion 70 , and a spring 60 as a biasing member.

[0127] The housing 10 includes a cylindrical portion 11 and a bottom portion 12 that blocks one side of the cylindrical portion 11. The housing 10 includes a plurality of ports 13 in a portion of the cylindrical portion 11. The ports 13 extend through the inner wall 16 and outer wall 14 of the cylindrical portion 11. Furthermore, a distance H between each port 13 and the direction in which the axis CL of the cylindrical portion 11 extends is, for example, 10 mm. Hereinafter, the direction in which the axis CL extends is referred to as the "axial direction."

[0128] The housing 10 is formed, for example, from at least one of a polyamide 66 (hereinafter referred to as "PA66") reinforcement material, a polyphthalamide (hereinafter referred to as "PPA") reinforcement material, and a polyphenylene sulfide (hereinafter referred to as "PPS") reinforcement material. Alternatively, the reinforcement material may be, for example, glass fiber. The following description will refer to the side of the cylindrical portion 11 axially facing the bottom 12 as one side, and the side of the cylindrical portion 11 axially opposite the bottom 12 as the other side.

[0129] The cover 20 blocks the opening on the other side of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10. The cover 20 is secured to a locking portion 15 provided on the outer wall 14 of the cylindrical portion 11 by a snap fit 21. The actuator 30 is secured to the other side of the cover 20 by a screw 31. The actuator 30 includes an electric motor and a reduction mechanism (not shown) inside a housing 32.

[0130] like Figure 4 As shown, the valve 40 is provided so as to be rotatable around a predetermined axis CL inside the housing 10. Here, a cone having the same axis as the axis CL of rotation of the valve 40 is defined. Figure 5 In FIG, only a portion of the axis of the cone and a portion of the generatrix G are shown by a single-dot chain line. The axis of the cone coincides with the axis CL of the valve 40. In addition, as a definition of a cone, the surface on which the generatrix G is rotated about the axis is called a side surface, the point where the generatrix G and the axis meet is called a vertex, and the surface opposite to the vertex and perpendicular to the axis is called a bottom surface. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the valve 40 has a sidewall 41 formed along the side surface of its conical shape. Furthermore, the valve 40 has a first end surface 42 formed on the apex (i.e., one side) of the cone, and a second end surface 43, opposite the first end surface 42 and formed on the base (i.e., the other side) of the cone. The internal angle θ formed between the generatrix G of the cone along which the sidewall 41 of the valve 40 extends and the axis CL of the valve 40 is set to be greater than 5 degrees. The first end surface 42 and the second end surface 43 are formed perpendicularly to the axis CL of the valve 40.

[0131] The valve 40 is arranged with one end surface 42 facing the bottom 12 of the housing 10. The valve 40 is housed within the housing 10 so as to be rotatable about the conical axis CL. Furthermore, the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 is shaped to follow the side surface of a cone similar to and coaxial with the cone along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends. In other words, the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 is formed parallel to the side wall 41 of the valve 40.

[0132] The valve 40 has a plurality of flow paths 44 recessed toward the axis CL from the side wall 41. The valve 40 changes the rotational phase. The plurality of flow paths 44 of the valve 40 communicate with the plurality of ports 13 of the housing 10, thereby switching between communication and interruption.

[0133] The valve 40 includes an input shaft 45 that protrudes axially from a position centered on the axis CL on the other end surface 43. The input shaft 45 is inserted through the insertion hole 22 provided in the cover 20. A bearing 23 and a shaft seal 24 are provided between the inner wall of the insertion hole 22 and the input shaft 45. The bearing 23, such as a ball bearing or a rolling bearing, rotatably supports the input shaft 45 in the cover 20. The shaft seal 24, such as an O-ring or an oil seal, prevents fluid leakage from the gap between the inner wall of the insertion hole 22 and the input shaft 45. A gear 46 is provided at the tip of the input shaft 45 protruding from the cover 20. The torque input from the actuator 30 to the input shaft 45 to rotate the valve 40 is set to 2.0 N·m or less.

[0134] The valve 40 further includes a protrusion 47 protruding axially from a position centered on the axis CL on the one end surface 42 , and a stopper 49 protruding axially from a position away from the axis CL on the one end surface 42 .

[0135] The protrusion 47 of the valve 40 is inserted inside the hole 17 provided in the bottom 12 of the housing 10 and is supported by the inner wall of the hole 17 so as to be rotatable. If the outer diameter of the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 is set as D1, the inner diameter of the hole 17 of the housing 10 is set as D2, and the outer diameter of one end face 42 of the valve 40 is set as D3, then the relationship of D1 < D3 and D2 < D3 is satisfied. In addition, D1 is slightly smaller than D2, so the relationship of D1 < D2 < D3 is satisfied. Thus, by reducing the radii of the sliding portions where the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 slides with the hole 17 of the housing 10, that is, D1 and D2, the sliding resistance of the sliding portions can be reduced, and the torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40 can be decreased. In addition, the inner wall of the hole 17 is formed parallel to the axis CL, allowing the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 to move in the axial direction. Further, the front end face 48 on the axial side of the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 does not contact the bottom face 18 on the axial side of the hole 17 of the housing 10.

[0136] As Figure 4 and Figure 7 shown, a stopper contact portion 19 against which the stopper 49 of the valve 40 can abut is provided on the bottom 12 of the housing 10. The stopper 49 of the valve 40 abuts against the stopper contact portion 19 of the housing 10, thereby determining the default position during the rotation of the valve 40.

[0137] The valve 40 is formed of at least one of, for example, a reinforcing material of PA66, a reinforcing material of PPA, a reinforcing material of PPS, and a reinforcing material of phenol (hereinafter referred to as "PF").

[0138] As Figure 4 shown, a sealing member 50 is provided between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the valve 40. The sealing member 50 is formed in a plate shape, the face 51 on the housing 10 side abuts against the peripheral portion of the port 13 in the inner wall 16 of the housing 10, and the face 52 on the valve 40 side slidably contacts the portion of the side wall 41 of the valve 40 that slidably contacts the sealing member 50. In the following description, the peripheral portion of the port 13 in the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 is referred to as the "port peripheral portion 131", and the portion of the side wall 41 of the valve 40 that slidably contacts the sealing member 50 is referred to as the "flow path peripheral portion 441". The sealing member 50 has a plurality of openings 53 penetrating in the plate thickness direction. The plurality of openings 53 of the sealing member 50 are provided at positions corresponding to the plurality of ports 13 of the housing 10.

[0139] Here, the width of the flow path peripheral portion 441 on the outer wall 14 of the valve 40 is set to W1, and the width of the port peripheral portion 131 on the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 is set to W2. In this case, the relationship W1 ≤ W2 holds. This reduces the pressure loss of the fluid flowing from the port 13 of the housing 10 into the flow path 44 of the valve 40. Furthermore, the width of the portion of the sealing member 50 where the opening 53 is formed is formed to be substantially the same as the width W2 of the port peripheral portion 131 of the housing 10.

[0140] In addition, the width W1 of the flow path peripheral portion 441 and the width W2 of the port peripheral portion 131 are both greater than 2 mm. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the radius of curvature R of the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 is the same as or larger than the radius of curvature of the surface 52 on the valve 40 side of the sealing component 50 at the same position in the axial direction. In addition, the same includes substantially the same. In other words, the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 is preferably a curved surface or plane with a radius of curvature greater than or equal to the conical shape along which the outer wall 14 of the valve 40 is located, and the front end R protruding radially outward is less preferred. Thus, the surface contact between the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing component 50 is achieved. Therefore, the gap between the valve 40 and the sealing component 50 and the gap between the housing 10 and the sealing component 50 are minimized or eliminated, thereby ensuring a tight seal that minimizes the leakage of the fluid between the flow path 44. In this way, the method of preventing fluid leakage by having a small gap with a longer distance (for example, about 2 mm or more) is sometimes called "gap sealing".

[0141] The material of the portion of the sealing component 50 on the housing 10 side is different from the material of the portion on the valve 40 side. Specifically, the material of the sealing component 50 is at least one of a combination of rubber and polytetrafluoroethylene (hereinafter referred to as "PTFE"), a combination of rubber and fluororesin, and a combination of rubber and a highly slippery material. More specifically, the material of the sealing component 50 is rubber on the housing 10 side, and at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a highly slippery material on the valve 40 side. Methods for manufacturing the sealing component 50 include, for example, coating the surface of the rubber material with PTFE, integrally assembling the rubber material and PTFE, insert molding, bonding, or sintering.

[0142] like Figure 11 As shown, the sealing member 50 is planar before being assembled to the housing 10 or removed from the housing 10, or is closer to a planar shape than when assembled to the housing 10. That is, the sealing member 50 is a planar member before being assembled to the housing 10.

[0143] like Figure 4 and Figure 10As shown, a cover side restriction portion 26 for restricting the movement of the sealing member 50 is provided on the inner side of the cover 20. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cover side restriction portion 26 protrudes from the axial side surface of the cover 20 toward the axial side. Figure 10 As shown, when viewed from one axial side, the cover-side restricting portion 26 has a curved shape parallel to the inner wall 16 of the portion of the barrel portion 11 of the housing 10 on the cover 20 side. A portion of the sealing member 50 that protrudes axially from the valve 40 to the other side is embedded between the cover-side restricting portion 26 and the inner wall 16 of the barrel portion 11 of the housing 10. The cover-side restricting portion 26 restricts movement of the sealing member 50 radially inward and axially to the other side of the barrel portion 11. In addition, the cover-side restricting portion 26 restricts deformation of the sealing member 50 radially inward from the curved shape along the inner wall 16 of the barrel portion 11 of the housing 10 or the side wall 41 of the valve 40.

[0144] In addition, if Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, a housing side restriction portion 70 and a circumferential restriction portion 71 for restricting the movement of the sealing member 50 are provided on the inner side of the housing 10. The housing side restriction portion 70 protrudes from the bottom 12 of the housing 10 to the other axial side. Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from the other axial side, the housing-side restricting portion 70 has a curved shape parallel to the inner wall 16 of the portion of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 on the bottom 12 side. A portion of the sealing member 50 located on the bottom 12 side is embedded between the housing-side restricting portion 70 and the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10. The housing-side restricting portion 70 restricts movement of the sealing member 50 radially inward and axially to one side of the cylindrical portion 11. Furthermore, the housing-side restricting portion 70 restricts deformation of the sealing member 50 from a curved shape that follows the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 or the side wall 41 of the valve 40.

[0145] The circumferential restriction portion 71 protrudes radially inward from the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10. The height of the circumferential restriction portion 71 protruding radially inward from the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 is smaller than the thickness of the sealing member 50. The circumferential restriction portion 71 is respectively provided on one side and the other side of the circumference of the sealing member 50 arranged on the inner side of the housing 10, and restricts the movement of the sealing member 50 to one side and the other side of the circumference of the cylindrical portion 11. Thus, as Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, when the sealing member 50 is assembled to the housing 10, it maintains a curved shape along the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10, and its movement in the axial and circumferential directions is restricted. In the following description, the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 11 is sometimes referred to as the circumferential direction of the housing 10 or the circumferential direction of the valve 40, which indicates the same direction.

[0146] Figure 14The following schematically shows how the planar sealing member 50 is bent when assembled to the housing 10. Figure 14 As shown by arrows M1 and M2, when the sealing member 50 is changed from a flat state to a curved state, the portion of the sealing member 50 on the valve 40 side contracts and the portion of the sealing member 50 on the housing 10 side extends. Figure 15 As shown, the sealing member 50 is in a planar state, and the length of the surface 51 facing the valve 40 side and the surface 52 facing the housing 10 side are made equal or different. Here, the sealing member 50 is set to a planar state, and the length of the surface 51 facing the valve 40 side of the sealing member 50 in the circumferential direction of the valve 40 when assembled to the housing 10 is represented by L IN In addition, the sealing member 50 is set to a flat state, and the length of the surface 52 of the sealing member 50 facing the housing 10 when assembled to the housing 10 is set to L. OUT At this time, with L IN ≤L OUT relationship.

[0147] Thus, when the sealing member 50 is bent and assembled to the housing 10, the amount of contraction of the portion of the sealing member 50 on the valve 40 side can be reduced, and the amount of expansion of the portion of the sealing member 50 on the housing 10 side can be reduced. Therefore, by reducing the internal stress of the sealing member 50, the product life of the sealing member 50 can be extended.

[0148] In addition, when the housing 10 side of the sealing component 50 is made of rubber material and the valve 40 side is made of fluororesin such as PTFE, during the cooling of the insert molding, due to the difference in the amount of shrinkage of the rubber material and the fluororesin, stress concentration may occur at the outer edge of the sealing component 50 at the contact portion of the two materials. In addition, insert molding is specifically vulcanization molding. In contrast, setting L IN ≤L OUT This can reduce the stress concentration generated at the contact portion between the two materials at the outer edge of the sealing member 50 during cooling of the insert molding (specifically, vulcanization molding).

[0149] In addition, if Figure 16 As shown, the sealing member 50 can make the shapes of the plurality of openings 53 different in the plane state. Figure 16 The right side of is called right, and the left side is called left.

[0150] like Figure 16As shown, the edge 531 of the opening 53 of the sealing member 50, which is located to the right of the center, is inclined rightward from the surface 52 on the valve 40 side toward the surface 51 on the housing 10 side. Furthermore, the edge 531 of the opening 53 of the sealing member 50, which is located to the left of the center, is inclined leftward from the surface 52 on the valve 40 side toward the surface 51 on the housing 10 side. This reduces the internal stress of the sealing member 50 when the sealing member 50 is bent and assembled into the housing 10, thereby extending the product life of the sealing member 50.

[0151] In addition, as another example of the sealing member 50, Figure 17 As shown, the edge 531 of the opening 53 of the sealing member 50 can also be formed perpendicularly to the surface 52 on the valve 40 side and the surface 51 on the housing 10 side of the planar sealing member 50. This can simplify the structure of the mold when manufacturing the sealing member 50, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0152] As another example of the sealing member 50, Figure 18 As shown in FIG. 1 , the outer edge of the sealing member 50 may be formed perpendicularly to the surface 52 on the valve 40 side and the surface 51 on the housing 10 side of the planar sealing member 50. That is, L may be set as IN =L OUT This simplifies the structure of the mold when manufacturing the sealing member 50 and reduces the manufacturing cost.

[0153] For example Figure 4As shown, the spring 60, which serves as a biasing member, is disposed between the other end face 43 of the valve 40 and the cover 20. The spring 60 is a compression coil spring that biases the valve 40 toward the apex of the cone. As described above, the internal angle θ formed by the generatrix G of the cone along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends and the axis CL of the valve 40 is set to be greater than 5 degrees. Thus, a component force is generated from the side wall 41 of the valve 40 acting on the sealing member 50 and the housing 10 relative to the load applied in the axial direction of the valve 40 by the spring 60. Therefore, a portion of the biasing force of the spring 60 acts as a component force pressing the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, and further, acts as a component force pressing the sealing member 50 and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10. Therefore, by adjusting the spring force of spring 60, it is possible to maintain the side wall 41 of the valve 40 in sliding contact with the sealing member 50 with minimal sliding resistance, and to maintain the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 in contact with the sealing member 50 during both rotation and stop of the valve 40. In other words, the spring force of spring 60 is adjusted so that the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 are in sliding contact with minimal sliding resistance, and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing member 50 are in contact. Furthermore, the spring force of spring 60 is adjusted so that the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 does not sink into the sealing member 50, or such sinking is suppressed. As a result, the aforementioned gaps between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, and between the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, can be sealed, reducing the torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40. Furthermore, since the axial length of spring 60 remains constant during rotation of the valve 40, the force of spring 60 also remains constant. Consequently, fluctuations in torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40 can be suppressed.

[0154] A spring guide 61 is provided between the other end face 43 of the valve 40 and the spring 60. The spring guide 61 supports the end of the spring 60 on the valve 40 side. The spring guide 61 has an L-shaped cross section parallel to the axis CL. The radially inner surface of the spring guide 61 slides in contact with the protrusion 29 forming the insertion hole 22 of the cover 20, and the axially one surface slides in contact with the other end face 43 of the valve 40. The spring guide 61 prevents axial displacement of the spring 60 and transmits the force of the spring 60 to the valve 40. Although not shown in the figure, a configuration may also be adopted in which a protrusion protruding toward the other axial side is provided on the other end face 43 of the valve 40, and the protrusion slides in contact with the radially inner surface of the spring guide 61.

[0155] The material of the spring guide 61 is different from that of the valve 40. Specifically, the material of the spring guide 61 is at least one of the following: a material made of metal alone; a material obtained by coating the surface of metal with PTFE; a material obtained by coating the surface of metal with fluororesin; a material obtained by coating the surface of metal with a high-sliding material; a material made of resin alone; a material obtained by coating the surface of resin with PTFE; a material obtained by coating the surface of resin with fluororesin; and a material obtained by coating the surface of resin with a high-sliding material.

[0156] In the various configurations of the fluid control valve described above, the valve 40, sealing member 50, and cover 20 are configured to be removable from the housing 10 from the axially opposite side. Therefore, the following process can be employed as a method for manufacturing the fluid control valve. First, the flat sealing member 50, already in its component state, is deformed into a curved state and assembled to the housing-side restricting portion 70 and the circumferential restricting portion 71. The valve 40 is then assembled to the housing 10 from the axially opposite side. At this point, the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 is inserted into the hole 17 of the housing 10. Next, the spring 60 and spring guide 61 are positioned, and the cover 20 is assembled to the housing 10 with the axis CL aligned so that the gear 46 of the input shaft 45 of the valve 40 and the shaft seal member 24 of the cover 20 do not contact each other. At this point, the portion of the sealing member 50 that protrudes axially from the valve 40 from the axially opposite side is inserted between the cover-side restricting portion 26 and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10. Finally, the actuator 30 is assembled to the cover 20 by screws 31 to complete the assembly of the fluid control valve.

[0157] The fluid control valve of the first embodiment described above achieves the following operational effects.

[0158] (1) The fluid control valve of the first embodiment includes the cover-side restricting portion 26 inside the cover 20 that closes the opening of the housing 10 . The cover-side restricting portion 26 restricts movement of the sealing member 50 radially inward and axially toward the other side of the cylindrical portion 11 .

[0159] Thus, when the cover 20 is assembled to the housing 10 during manufacture of the fluid control valve, the cover-side restricting portion 26 can prevent the seal member 50 from shifting. Furthermore, even after the cover 20 is assembled to the housing 10, the cover-side restricting portion 26 can prevent the seal member 50 from shifting. Consequently, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the seal member 50 are in sliding contact with minimal sliding resistance, while the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the seal member 50 are maintained in contact. This ensures a tight seal that prevents fluid leakage from the flow path 44 within the housing 10.

[0160] Furthermore, the cover-side restricting portion 26 prevents the sealing member 50 from moving radially inward of the cylindrical portion 11. This prevents an increase in sliding resistance between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 during rotational drive of the valve 40, and reduces the torque during rotational drive of the valve 40. Consequently, the fluid control valve can reduce the size of the actuator 30 that drives the valve 40, and reduce operating noise, power consumption, and electrical noise during rotation of the valve 40.

[0161] (2) The cover-side restricting portion 26 can restrict the seal member 50 from deforming from the curved shape along the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 and the side wall 41 of the valve 40 .

[0162] Thus, even when a member that is flat in its original state is used as the sealing member 50, the sealing member 50 can be maintained in a curved shape by the cover-side restricting portion 26. Therefore, an increase in sliding resistance between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 during rotational drive of the valve 40 is prevented, and the torque during rotational drive of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0163] (3) The fluid control valve of the first embodiment includes a housing-side restricting portion 70 on the bottom portion 12 of the housing 10. The housing-side restricting portion 70 restricts the seal member 50 from moving radially inward and axially to one side of the cylindrical portion 11. The housing-side restricting portion 70 can restrict the seal member 50 from deforming along the curved shape of the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 or the side wall 41 of the valve 40.

[0164] Thus, when the seal member 50 is assembled into the housing 10 during manufacture of the fluid control valve, the housing-side restricting portion 70 can prevent the seal member 50 from shifting. Furthermore, even after the seal member 50 is assembled into the housing 10, the housing-side restricting portion 70 can prevent the seal member 50 from shifting. Consequently, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the seal member 50 are in sliding contact with minimal sliding resistance, while the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the seal member 50 are maintained in contact with each other, thereby ensuring a seal that prevents fluid leakage from the flow path 44.

[0165] Furthermore, even when a flat member is used as the sealing member 50, the housing-side restricting portion 70 prevents the sealing member 50 from moving radially inward of the cylindrical portion 11 and maintains the curved shape of the sealing member 50. Therefore, when the valve 40 is driven to rotate, the sliding resistance between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 is prevented from increasing, and the torque during the rotation of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0166] (4) The fluid control valve of the first embodiment includes the circumferential restriction portion 71 inside the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 . The circumferential restriction portion 71 restricts movement of the sealing member 50 to one side and the other side in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 11 .

[0167] Thus, during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, when the sealing member 50 is assembled into the housing 10, the housing-side restricting portion 70 can prevent the sealing member 50 from shifting in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, even after the sealing member 50 is assembled into the housing 10, the housing-side restricting portion 70 can prevent the sealing member 50 from shifting in the circumferential direction. Consequently, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 are in sliding contact with minimal sliding resistance, while the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing member 50 are maintained in contact, thereby ensuring a seal that prevents fluid leakage from the flow path 44.

[0168] (5) In the first embodiment, the material of the portion of the sealing member 50 on the housing 10 side is different from the material of the portion on the valve 40 side.

[0169] Thus, as the sealing member 50 , materials suitable for the portion on the housing 10 side and the portion on the valve 40 side can be selected.

[0170] (6) Specifically, the material of the sealing member 50 is a rubber material on the housing 10 side and at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high-sliding material on the valve 40 side.

[0171] Therefore, the sealing member 50 is made of at least one of rubber, silicone, PTFE, fluororesin, and an elastic resin material. The spring force of the spring 60 allows the sealing member 50 to deform and conform to the shape of the inner wall 16 of the housing 10. This improves the ease of assembly of the sealing member 50, and by minimizing or eliminating the gaps between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, as well as the gaps between the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, a seal that minimizes fluid leakage in the flow path 44 can be ensured.

[0172] Furthermore, by setting the material of the sealing component 50 on the valve 40 side to at least one of PTFE, fluororesin and high-sliding material, it is possible to ensure sealing performance that minimizes the leakage of fluid between the flow path 44 and reduce the sliding resistance between the valve 40 and the sealing component 50.

[0173] (7) In the first embodiment, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 is formed to follow the side of the cone, and the valve 40 is biased toward the apex of the cone by the spring 60. This makes it easy to adjust the pressing force between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, and the pressing force between the housing 10 and the sealing member 50. Therefore, the gap between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, and the gap between the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, are minimized or eliminated, thereby ensuring a tight seal that minimizes the amount of fluid leakage in the flow path 44. Therefore, the valve 40 does not sink into the sealing member 50, or the sinking is suppressed, thereby reducing the torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40 and preventing the torque from becoming wavy. As a result, the fluid control valve can ensure the sealing of the valve 40 during rotation and when it stops, and reduce the operating sound, power consumption, and electrical noise during the rotation of the valve 40. Furthermore, the fluid control valve can miniaturize the actuator 30 that drives the valve 40, prevent damage to the actuator 30, and improve reliability.

[0174] Furthermore, in the fluid control valve, the sidewall 41 of the valve 40 is shaped to conform to the side surface of a cone, and the valve 40 is biased toward the apex of the cone by a spring 60. This allows the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 to remain in sliding contact even if wear occurs on the sliding surfaces thereof due to aging or other factors. Therefore, the fluid control valve can maintain the sealing performance between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 despite aging.

[0175] (8) In the first embodiment, the valve 40 , the sealing member 50 , and the cover 20 are configured to be attachable to and detachable from the other axial side of the housing 10 .

[0176] Therefore, assuming that, contrary to the configuration of the first embodiment, an input shaft 45 is located on one end surface 42 of the valve 40, an insertion hole 22 and a shaft seal 24 are provided on the bottom 12 of the housing 10. In this case, when manufacturing the fluid control valve, care must be taken to avoid contact between the input shaft 45 and the shaft seal 24, thereby damaging the shaft seal 24. This presents a challenge. Specifically, the valve 40 must be assembled to the housing 10 while maintaining alignment between the axis CL of the housing 10 and the axis CL of the valve 40 throughout the entire assembly process.

[0177] In contrast, in this embodiment, the input shaft 45 is located on the other end surface 43 of the valve 40, and the cover 20 has the insertion hole 22 and the shaft seal member 24. Therefore, when manufacturing the fluid control valve, the risk of the input shaft 45 and the shaft seal member 24 coming into contact when the valve 40 is assembled into the housing 10 is reduced, thereby facilitating assembly.

[0178] (9) In the first embodiment, when the sealing member 50 is removed from the housing 10 , the sealing member 50 is in a planar shape or a shape closer to a planar shape than when the sealing member 50 is assembled to the housing 10 .

[0179] Therefore, if a curved sealing member 50 is to be manufactured, the demolding direction during molding will be varied, which reduces workability and increases the manufacturing cost of the sealing member 50. In contrast, the fluid control valve of the first embodiment uses a planar sealing member 50 in its component state, which can be deformed into a curved state when assembled into the housing 10. This improves the workability of the sealing member 50 during manufacture.

[0180] (10) In the first embodiment, the sealing member 50 has L IN ≤L OUT relationship.

[0181] Thus, when the sealing member 50 is bent and assembled to the housing 10, the amount of contraction of the portion of the sealing member 50 on the valve 40 side can be reduced, and the amount of expansion of the portion of the sealing member 50 on the housing 10 side can be reduced. Therefore, by reducing the internal stress of the sealing member 50, the product life of the sealing member 50 can be extended.

[0182] In addition, when the housing 10 side of the sealing component 50 is made of rubber material and the valve 40 side is made of fluororesin such as PTFE, during the cooling of the insert molding, due to the difference in the amount of shrinkage of the rubber material and the fluororesin, stress concentration may occur at the outer edge of the sealing component 50 at the contact portion of the two materials. In addition, insert molding is specifically vulcanization molding. In contrast, setting L IN ≤L OUT This can reduce the stress concentration generated at the contact portion between the two materials at the outer edge of the sealing member 50 during cooling of the insert molding (specifically, vulcanization molding).

[0183] (11) In the first embodiment, the inner angle θ formed between the generatrix G of the cone along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends and the axis CL of the valve 40 is 5 degrees or more.

[0184] This ensures that the desired force component, which maintains the sliding contact between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, and the abutment between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, is generated relative to the load applied by the spring 60 in the axial direction of the valve 40. Consequently, by minimizing or eliminating the gaps between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, and between the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, sealing performance can be ensured to minimize fluid leakage from the flow path 44. In contrast, if the internal angle θ formed by the cone-shaped generatrix G along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends and the axis CL of the valve 40 is less than 5 degrees, the desired force component cannot be obtained, making it difficult to ensure sealing performance.

[0185] The upper limit of the inner angle θ between the cone-shaped generatrix G along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends and the axis CL of the valve 40 is appropriately set according to the volume in the flow path 44 of the valve 40 and the radial volume of the housing 10 .

[0186] (12) In the first embodiment, the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10 has a shape that follows the side surface of a cone that is similar to and coaxial with the cone along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 follows.

[0187] Thus, a component force is generated from the side wall 41 of the valve 40 to act on the sealing member 50 and the housing 10 in response to the load applied in the axial direction of the valve 40 by the spring 60. This component force maintains the contact state between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, thereby ensuring sealing performance.

[0188] (13) In the first embodiment, the material of the housing 10 is at least one of a PA66 reinforced material, a PPA reinforced material, and a PPS reinforced material.

[0189] This makes it possible to achieve both molding dimensional accuracy and strength of the housing 10 .

[0190] (14) In the first embodiment, the material of the valve 40 is at least one of a PA66 reinforced material, a PPA reinforced material, a PPS reinforced material, and a PF reinforced material.

[0191] This ensures the molding dimensional accuracy and strength of the valve 40 and reduces the sliding resistance between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 .

[0192] (15) In the first embodiment, the cover 20 is fixed to the housing 10 by the snap fit 21 .

[0193] This can reduce the number of parts required to assemble and fix the cover 20 to the housing 10 .

[0194] (16) In the first embodiment, the valve 40 includes the stopper 49 projecting in the axial direction from the one end surface 42 at a position away from the axis CL. The housing 10 includes the stopper contact portion 19 for receiving the stopper 49 of the valve 40 .

[0195] Thus, by providing the stopper 49 on the one end surface 42 of the valve 40 instead of providing it on the side wall 41 , a sealing surface can be reliably ensured.

[0196] (17) In the first embodiment, the stopper contact portion 19 is provided on the bottom portion 12 of the housing 10 , and is not provided on the cover 20 .

[0197] Thus, by providing the stopper contact portion 19 on the housing 10 instead of on the cover 20 , it is possible to reduce a load factor on the fastening portion between the housing 10 and the cover 20 , for example, the snap fit 21 .

[0198] (Second embodiment)

[0199] The second embodiment is described below. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the method of fixing the actuator 30, the cover 20, and the housing 10 is changed. The rest is the same as the first embodiment, so only the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0200] like Figures 19 to 21 As shown, in the second embodiment, the actuator 30 and the cover 20 are fixed to the housing 10 by the same screw 31. As the screw 31, a self-tapping screw is used, for example. The housing 10 has a housing-side screw receiving portion 130 for mounting the screw 31 at a position radially outward of the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11. The cover 20 has a cover-side screw receiving portion 25 at a position overlapping with the housing-side screw receiving portion 130 in the axial direction. The actuator 30 also has an actuator-side screw receiving portion 33 at a position overlapping with the housing-side screw receiving portion 130 and the cover-side screw receiving portion 25 in the axial direction. In addition, the housing 32 of the actuator 30 and the actuator-side screw receiving portion 33 are connected by an arm 34. In such a configuration, the housing-side screw receiving portion 130, the cover-side screw receiving portion 25 and the actuator-side screw receiving portion 33 overlap in the axial direction and are fixed together by the screw 31.

[0201] The fluid control valve of the second embodiment described above achieves the following operational effects.

[0202] In the second embodiment, the actuator 30 , the cover 20 , and the housing 10 are fixed by the same screw 31 .

[0203] This can reduce the number of parts required to assemble and fix the actuator 30 and the cover 20 to the housing 10 .

[0204] (Third embodiment)

[0205] The third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the shape of the flow path 44 of the valve 40 is changed compared to the first embodiment. Therefore, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0206] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the third embodiment, the deep portion 440 on the axis CL side of the plurality of flow paths 44 included in the valve 40 has a shape along the side surface of a cone similar to and coaxial with the cone along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends. Figure 22 In FIG. 4 , a portion of the conical generatrix G along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends is shown by a dashed line, and a conical generatrix Gs along which the deep portions 440 on the axis CL side of the plurality of flow paths 44 extend is shown by a dotted line. Thus, the deep portions 440 of the plurality of flow paths 44 included in the valve 40 are formed parallel to the side wall 41 of the valve 40. Therefore, the distance D6 between the deep portions 440 on the axis CL side of the flow paths 44 and the side wall 41 is uniform across the plurality of flow paths 44 arranged in the axial direction.

[0207] The fluid control valve according to the third embodiment described above achieves the following operational effects.

[0208] In the third embodiment, the phenomenon unique to conical valves, in which the depth and width of the flow passages 44 decrease as the outer diameter of the valve 40 decreases toward one side in the axial direction of the valve 40, can be suppressed. Specifically, the distance D6 between the deep portion 440 on the axis CL side of the flow passages 44 and the sidewall 41 can be made uniform across the multiple flow passages 44 included in the valve 40. Consequently, the pressure loss of the fluid flowing through the multiple flow passages 44 is made uniform, ensuring water permeability.

[0209] (Fourth embodiment)

[0210] The fourth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in that the shape of the cover-side restriction portion 26 is changed compared to the first embodiment. Therefore, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0211] like Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, in the fourth embodiment, the cover-side restricting portion 26 includes a parallel portion 27 and an inclined portion 28. The parallel portion 27 is formed parallel to the inner wall 16 of the cylindrical portion 11 of the housing 10. The inclined portion 28 is formed continuously with one axial side of the parallel portion 27 and is inclined radially inward from the other axial side toward one side. When the cover 20 is assembled to the housing 10, the inclined portion 28 guides the sealing member 50 between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the parallel portion 27.

[0212] The fluid control valve according to the fourth embodiment described above achieves the following operational effects.

[0213] In the fourth embodiment, the cover-side restriction portion 26 includes an inclined portion 28 that is inclined radially inward from the other axial side toward one side of the cylindrical portion 11 .

[0214] Thus, when manufacturing the fluid control valve, after inserting the sealing member 50 and the valve 40 into the housing 10, the inclined portion 28 of the cover-side restricting portion 26 effectively functions when assembling the cover 20 to the housing 10. At this time, the inclined portion 28 of the cover-side restricting portion 26 guides the sealing member 50 between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the parallel portion 27. Therefore, the cover 20 can be assembled easily.

[0215] (Fifth embodiment)

[0216] The fifth embodiment is described. The fifth embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that the method for securing the actuator 30, cover 20, and housing 10 is modified. Otherwise, the fifth embodiment is similar to the first and second embodiments. Therefore, only the differences between the fifth embodiment and the first and second embodiments will be described.

[0217] like Figure 26 and Figure 27 As shown, in the fifth embodiment, the actuator 30 and the cover 20 are fixed to the housing 10 by the same screws 31 as in the second embodiment. That is, the housing-side screw receiving portion 130, the cover-side screw receiving portion 25, and the actuator-side screw receiving portion 33 overlap in the axial direction and are fastened together by the screws 31.

[0218] Here, in the fifth embodiment, the snap-fit ​​fixing of the cover 20 and the housing 10 described in the first and second embodiments is eliminated. Thus, even when the actuator 30 and the cover 20 are fixed to the housing 10 by the same screws 31, the snap-fit ​​fixing of the cover 20 and the housing 10 can be omitted.

[0219] The fluid control valve according to the fifth embodiment described above can simplify the fixing of the actuator 30 , the cover 20 , and the housing 10 .

[0220] (Sixth embodiment)

[0221] Configuration and Reference of the Fluid Control Valve of the Sixth Embodiment Figures 1 to 18 The structure of the fluid control valve of the first embodiment described above is the same, so its description is omitted. The fluid control valve of the sixth embodiment has the following effects.

[0222] (1) In the sixth embodiment, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 is formed to follow the side of a cone, and the valve 40 is biased toward the apex of the cone by a spring 60. Thus, by adjusting the spring force of the spring 60, the pressing force between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, and the pressing force between the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, can be easily adjusted. Therefore, the gaps between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, and the gaps between the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, can be minimized or eliminated, thereby ensuring a tight seal that minimizes the amount of fluid leakage in the flow path 44. Therefore, the valve 40 does not sink into the sealing member 50, as in the configuration of the fluid control valve described in Patent Document 1, or the sinking is suppressed, thereby reducing the torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40 and preventing the torque from becoming wavy. As a result, the fluid control valve of the sixth embodiment can ensure the tight seal of the valve 40 during rotation and when it stops, and can also reduce the size of the actuator 30 that drives the valve 40, thereby reducing the operating sound, power consumption, and electrical noise during the rotation of the valve 40. Furthermore, damage to the gears included in the actuator 30 can be prevented, thereby improving reliability.

[0223] Furthermore, in the fluid control valve of the sixth embodiment, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 is formed to follow the side surface of the cone, and the valve 40 is biased by a spring 60. This allows the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 to remain in sliding contact even if wear occurs on the sliding surface between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 due to aging or other factors. Therefore, the fluid control valve can maintain the sealing performance between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 despite aging.

[0224] (2) In the sixth embodiment, the material of the portion of the sealing member 50 on the housing 10 side is different from the material of the portion on the valve 40 side.

[0225] Thus, as the material of the sealing member 50 , a material suitable for contact with the housing 10 and sliding contact with the valve 40 can be selected.

[0226] (3) Specifically, the material of the sealing member 50 is a rubber material on the housing 10 side and a PTFE, fluororesin, or a highly slippery material on the valve 40 side.

[0227] Therefore, the sealing member 50 is made of at least one of rubber, silicone, PTFE, fluororesin, and an elastic resin material. The spring force of the spring 60 allows the sealing member 50 to deform and conform to the shape of the inner wall 16 of the housing 10. This improves the ease of assembly of the sealing member 50, and by minimizing or eliminating the gaps between the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, as well as the gaps between the housing 10 and the sealing member 50, a seal that minimizes fluid leakage in the flow path 44 can be ensured.

[0228] Furthermore, by setting the material of the sealing component 50 on the valve 40 side to at least one of PTFE, fluororesin and high-sliding material, it is possible to ensure sealing performance that minimizes the leakage of fluid between the flow path 44 and reduce the sliding resistance between the valve 40 and the sealing component 50.

[0229] (4) In the sixth embodiment, the fluid control valve includes the spring guide 61 provided between the valve 40 and the spring 60 .

[0230] This prevents the edge of the spring 60 from being caught on the surface of the valve 40 or scraping the surface of the valve 40, thereby increasing the sliding resistance between the spring 60 and the valve 40. Therefore, the torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0231] (5) In the sixth embodiment, the material of the spring guide 61 is different from the material of the valve 40 .

[0232] This makes it possible to select a material that can reduce the sliding resistance between the spring guide 61 and the valve 40 .

[0233] (6) In the sixth embodiment, the material of the spring guide 61 is at least one of the following materials: a material obtained by coating PTFE on the surface of metal; a material obtained by coating fluororesin on the surface of metal; a material obtained by coating a high-sliding material on the surface of metal; a material obtained by coating PTFE on the surface of resin; a material obtained by coating fluororesin on the surface of resin; and a material obtained by coating a high-sliding material on the surface of resin.

[0234] This can reduce the sliding resistance between the spring guide 61 and the valve 40 .

[0235] In addition, the material of the spring guide 61 is not limited to the materials exemplified above, and may be metal alone or resin alone.

[0236] (7) In the sixth embodiment, the valve 40 includes the protrusion 47 that protrudes axially from a position centered on the axis CL on one end surface 42. The housing 10 includes the hole 17 that rotatably supports the protrusion 47 of the valve 40.

[0237] Thus, the hole 17 of the housing 10 rotatably supports the protrusion 47 of the valve 40, thereby preventing displacement of the axis CL of the valve 40. Consequently, the pressing state between the valve 40 and the seal is stabilized, and the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50 are kept in sliding contact with minimal sliding resistance, thereby ensuring sealing performance when the valve 40 is rotating or stopped.

[0238] (8) In the sixth embodiment, the outer diameter D1 of the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 and the inner diameter D2 of the hole 17 of the housing 10 are smaller than the outer diameter D3 of the one end surface 42 of the valve 40 .

[0239] Thus, by reducing the radius of the sliding portion between the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 of the housing 10 , the sliding resistance of the sliding portion can be reduced, thereby reducing the torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40 .

[0240] (9) In the sixth embodiment, the front end surface 48 on the axial side of the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 does not contact the bottom surface 18 on the axial side of the hole 17 of the housing 10 .

[0241] This eliminates slippage at locations unrelated to the function of preventing positional deviation of the valve 40 axis CL between the hole 17 of the housing 10 and the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 , thereby reducing torque during rotational driving of the valve 40 .

[0242] (10) In the sixth embodiment, the width W1 of the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the width W2 of the port peripheral portion 131 of the housing 10 are both 2 mm or more.

[0243] Thus, in the configuration in which the port peripheral portion 131 of the housing 10 is in surface contact with the sealing member 50 , the width W2 of the port peripheral portion 131 is increased to widen the width of the surface contact, thereby further reducing the amount of fluid leakage between the ports 13 and improving the sealing performance.

[0244] Similarly, in the configuration where the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 is in surface contact with the sealing member 50 , increasing the width W1 of the flow path peripheral portion 441 and widening the width of the surface contact can further reduce the leakage of fluid between the flow paths 44 and improve the sealing performance.

[0245] Furthermore, by increasing the width of the surface contact between the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, it is possible to eliminate or suppress the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 from sinking into the sealing member 50. Consequently, the torque generated during the rotational drive of the valve 40 can be reduced and the torque can be prevented from becoming wavy. Consequently, the stress on the actuator 30 that drives the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0246] (11) In the sixth embodiment, the width W1 of the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the width W2 of the port peripheral portion 131 of the housing 10 have a relationship of W2 ≥ W1.

[0247] Thus, by making the width W1 of the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 equal to or smaller than the width W2 of the port peripheral portion 131 of the housing 10 , the pressure loss of the fluid flowing from the port 13 of the housing 10 into the flow path 44 of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0248] (12) In the sixth embodiment, the curvature radius R of the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 is equal to or larger than the curvature radius of the valve 40 side surface 52 of the sealing member 50 located at the same position in the axial direction.

[0249] Thus, in a configuration where sealing is ensured by minimizing or eliminating the gap between the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50, surface contact is achieved between the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing member 50. Therefore, leakage of fluid between the flow paths 44 within the housing 10 can be further minimized, thereby improving sealing.

[0250] Furthermore, by increasing the curvature radius R of the flow path peripheral portion 441, it is possible to eliminate or suppress the flow path peripheral portion 441 of the valve 40 from sinking into the sealing member 50. This reduces the torque generated during the rotational drive of the valve 40 and prevents the torque from becoming wavy. Consequently, it is possible to reduce the stress on the actuator 30 that drives the valve 40.

[0251] (13) In the sixth embodiment, the torque required to rotate the valve 40 relative to the housing 10 and the sealing member 50 is 2.0 N·m or less.

[0252] This allows the actuator 30 that drives the valve 40 to be miniaturized, and reduces the operating noise, power consumption, and electrical noise during the rotation of the valve 40 .

[0253] (14) In the sixth embodiment, the valve 40 , the sealing member 50 , and the cover 20 are configured to be attachable to and detachable from the other axial side of the housing 10 .

[0254] Therefore, assuming that, contrary to the configuration of the sixth embodiment, an input shaft 45 is provided on one end face 42 of the valve 40, the insertion hole 22 through which the input shaft 45 is inserted and the shaft seal 24 are provided on the bottom 12 of the housing 10. In this case, when manufacturing the fluid control valve, care must be taken to avoid contact between the gear 46 of the input shaft 45 and the shaft seal 24, thereby damaging the shaft seal 24. This presents a challenge. Specifically, the valve 40 must be assembled to the housing 10 while the axis CL of the housing 10 and the axis CL of the valve 40 are aligned throughout the entire assembly process.

[0255] In contrast, in the sixth embodiment, the input shaft 45 is located on the other end surface 43 of the valve 40, and the cover 20 includes the insertion hole 22 and the shaft seal member 24. Therefore, during manufacture of the fluid control valve, the risk of the input shaft 45 contacting the shaft seal member 24 when assembling the valve 40 to the housing 10 is reduced, thereby facilitating assembly.

[0256] (Seventh to Twelfth Embodiments)

[0257] The seventh to twelfth embodiments differ from the sixth embodiment in that the structure of the sliding portion between the one end surface 42 of the valve 40 and the bottom 12 of the housing 10 is changed. The rest is the same as the sixth embodiment, so only the differences from the sixth embodiment will be described.

[0258] (Seventh embodiment)

[0259] like Figure 28 As shown, the fluid control valve of the seventh embodiment includes a bearing 171 between a protrusion 47 protruding from one end surface 42 of the valve 40 and a hole 17 provided in the bottom 12 of the housing 10. Bearing 171 is, for example, a sliding bearing, fixed inside the hole 17 of the housing 10, and slides against the protrusion 47 of the valve 40. Bearing 171 and the housing 10 are integrally formed by insert molding or two-color molding. Alternatively, bearing 171 may be assembled inside the hole 17 of the housing 10 by external insertion or press-fitting.

[0260] The material of the bearing 171 may be a material different from that of the valve 40 or the housing 10, such as metal. Alternatively, when the same material as that of the valve 40 or the housing 10 is used as the material of the bearing 171, at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high-sliding material may be added. Alternatively, the bearing 171 may be made of a material obtained by coating the surface of metal or resin with at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high-sliding material.

[0261] The fluid control valve according to the seventh embodiment described above achieves the following operational effects.

[0262] (1) The fluid control valve of the seventh embodiment includes the bearing 171 provided between the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 of the housing 10 .

[0263] This can further reduce the sliding resistance between the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 of the housing 10 .

[0264] (2) In the seventh embodiment, the material of the valve 40 or the housing 10 is different from the material of the bearing 171 .

[0265] Therefore, as the material of the bearing 171 , an arbitrary material different from that of the valve 40 or the housing 10 can be selected.

[0266] (3) In the seventh embodiment, when the material of the bearing 171 is set to the same material as that of the valve 40 or the housing 10 , at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high-sliding material is mixed.

[0267] This can further reduce the sliding resistance between the bearing 171 and the protrusion 47 of the valve 40. Specifically, the bearing 171 is a sliding bearing.

[0268] (4) In the seventh embodiment, the bearing 171 may be made of a metal surface coated with at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high-sliding material.

[0269] This can also further reduce the sliding resistance between the bearing 171 and the protrusion 47 of the valve 40. In addition, the bearing 171 is specifically a sliding bearing.

[0270] (Eighth Embodiment)

[0271] like Figure 29 As shown, the fluid control valve of the eighth embodiment also includes a bearing 471 between a protrusion 47 protruding from one end surface 42 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 provided in the bottom 12 of the housing 10. Bearing 471 is, for example, a sliding bearing, fixed to the outside of the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 and sliding against the inner wall of the hole 17 of the housing 10. Bearing 471 and valve 40 are integrally formed by insert molding or two-color molding. Alternatively, bearing 471 may be assembled to the outside of the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 by external insertion or press-fitting.

[0272] The material of the bearing 471 can be the same material as that described in the seventh embodiment.

[0273] The fluid control valve of the eighth embodiment described above can also achieve the same operational effects as those of the seventh embodiment.

[0274] (Ninth embodiment)

[0275] like Figure 30 As shown, the fluid control valve according to the ninth embodiment includes a shaft 410 that is insert-molded in a valve body 400 .

[0276] The portion of the shaft 410 that protrudes from one end surface 42 of the valve 40 constitutes a protrusion 47 of the valve 40. The protrusion 47 of the valve 40 is rotatably supported in the hole 17 of the housing 10. Furthermore, the portion of the shaft 410 that protrudes from the other end surface 43 of the valve 40 constitutes an input shaft 45.

[0277] The fluid control valve according to the ninth embodiment described above achieves the following operational effects.

[0278] In the ninth embodiment, the protrusion 47 of the valve 40 is formed by the shaft 410 that is insert-molded in the valve body 400 .

[0279] This improves the dimensional accuracy of the protrusion 47 in the valve 40 and further reduces the amount of positional deviation of the axis CL of the valve 40 .

[0280] (Tenth Embodiment)

[0281] As Figure 31 shown, the fluid control valve of the tenth embodiment does not have the protrusion 47 that protrudes from one end face 42 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 provided in the bottom 12 of the housing 10 described in the sixth to ninth embodiments. Instead, the housing 10 of the fluid control valve of the tenth embodiment has a protrusion-shaped portion 110 that protrudes toward the other side in the axial direction at a position centered on the axis CL in the bottom 12. In addition, the valve 40 has a hole-shaped portion 420 that is recessed toward the other side in the axial direction at a position centered on the axis CL in one end face 42.

[0282] The protrusion-shaped portion 110 of the housing 10 is inserted inside the hole-shaped portion 420 provided in one end face 42 of the valve 40 and is rotatably supported by the inner wall of the hole-shaped portion 420. If the outer diameter of the protrusion-shaped portion 110 of the housing 10 is D4, the inner diameter of the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 is D5, and the outer diameter of one end face 42 of the valve 40 is D3, then there is a relationship of D4 < D3 and D5 < D3. In addition, D4 is slightly smaller than D5, so there is a relationship of D4 < D5 < D3. Thus, by reducing the radii of the sliding portions where the protrusion-shaped portion 110 of the housing 10 and the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 slide, that is, D4 and D5, the sliding resistance of the sliding portions can be reduced, and the torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40 can be decreased. In addition, the inner wall of the hole-shaped portion 420 is formed parallel to the axis CL, allowing relative movement of the protrusion-shaped portion 110 in the axial direction. Further, the front end face 111 on the other side in the axial direction of the protrusion-shaped portion 110 of the housing 10 does not contact the bottom face 421 on the other side in the axial direction of the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40.

[0283] The fluid control valve of the tenth embodiment described above exhibits the following effects.

[0284] (1) In the tenth embodiment, the valve 40 has a hole-shaped portion 420 that is recessed in the axial direction at a position centered on the axis CL in one end face 42. The housing 10 has a protrusion-shaped portion 110 that rotatably supports the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40.

[0285] Thus, the protrusion-shaped portion 110 of the housing 10 rotatably supports the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40, preventing the deviation of the position of the axis CL of the valve 40. Therefore, the pressing state of the valve 40 against the seal is stabilized, and the state where the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the seal member are in sliding contact with a small sliding resistance is maintained, ensuring the sealing performance when the valve 40 rotates and stops. [[ID=二十]] [[ID=二十一]]

[0286] (2) In the tenth embodiment, the inner diameter D5 of the hole portion 420 of the valve 40 and the outer diameter D4 of the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10 are smaller than the outer diameter D3 of the one end surface 42 of the valve 40 .

[0287] Thus, by reducing the radius of the sliding portion between the hole portion 420 of the valve 40 and the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10 , the sliding resistance of the sliding portion is reduced, and the torque during the rotational drive of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0288] (3) In the tenth embodiment, the bottom surface 421 on the other axial side of the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 does not contact the front end surface 111 on the other axial side of the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10 .

[0289] This eliminates slippage at locations unrelated to the function of preventing positional deviation of the axial center CL of the valve 40 between the hole portion 420 of the valve 40 and the protrusion portion 110 of the housing 10 , and reduces torque during rotational driving of the valve 40 .

[0290] (Eleventh embodiment)

[0291] like Figure 32 As shown, the fluid control valve of the eleventh embodiment includes a bearing 422 between the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 and the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10. The bearing 422 is, for example, a sliding bearing, fixed inside the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 and slidingly connected to the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10. The bearing 422 and the valve 40 are integrally formed by insert molding or two-color molding. Alternatively, the bearing 422 may be assembled inside the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 by external insertion or press-fitting.

[0292] The material of the bearing 422 is the same as that described in the seventh embodiment, but a material different from the material of the valve 40 or the housing 10, such as metal, may also be used. Alternatively, when the same material as the valve 40 or the housing 10 is used as the material of the bearing 422, at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high-sliding material may be added. Alternatively, the bearing 422 may be made of a material obtained by coating the surface of metal or resin with at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high-sliding material.

[0293] The fluid control valve according to the eleventh embodiment described above achieves the following operational effects.

[0294] (1) The fluid control valve of the eleventh embodiment includes the bearing 422 provided between the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 and the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10 .

[0295] This can further reduce the sliding resistance between the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 and the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10 .

[0296] (2) In the eleventh embodiment, the material of the valve 40 or the housing 10 is different from the material of the bearing 422 .

[0297] Therefore, as the material of the bearing 422 , an arbitrary material different from that of the valve 40 or the housing 10 can be selected.

[0298] (3) In the eleventh embodiment, when the material of the bearing 422 is set to the same material as that of the valve 40 or the housing 10, at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high sliding material is mixed.

[0299] This can further reduce the sliding resistance between the bearing 422 and the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10. The bearing 422 is specifically a sliding bearing.

[0300] (4) In the eleventh embodiment, the bearing 422 may be made of a metal surface coated with at least one of PTFE, fluororesin, and a high-sliding material.

[0301] This can also further reduce the sliding resistance between the bearing 422 and the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10. In addition, the bearing 422 is specifically a sliding bearing.

[0302] (Twelfth embodiment)

[0303] like Figure 33 As shown, the fluid control valve of the twelfth embodiment also includes a bearing 112 between the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40 and the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10. The bearing 112 is, for example, a sliding bearing, fixed to the outside of the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10, and slides against the inner wall of the hole-shaped portion 420 of the valve 40. The bearing 112 and the housing 10 are integrally formed by insert molding or two-color molding. Alternatively, the bearing 112 may be assembled to the outside of the protruding portion 110 of the housing 10 by external insertion or press-fitting.

[0304] The material of the bearing 112 can be the same as that described in the seventh and eleventh embodiments.

[0305] The fluid control valve of the twelfth embodiment described above can also achieve the same operational effects as those of the eleventh embodiment.

[0306] (Thirteenth embodiment)

[0307] The tenth embodiment is similar to the sixth embodiment in that the method of installing the spring guide 61 is changed compared to the sixth embodiment. Therefore, only the differences from the sixth embodiment will be described.

[0308] like Figure 34As shown in FIG. 13 , a convex portion 460 that protrudes toward the other axial side is provided on the other end surface 43 of the valve 40 . The convex portion 460 is provided radially inward of the spring guide 61 .

[0309] The spring guide 61 has an L-shaped cross section parallel to the axis CL. Its radially inner surface is in sliding contact with the protrusion 460 provided on the other end surface 43 of the valve 40, and its axially one surface is in sliding contact with the other end surface 43 of the valve 40. Even with this configuration, the spring guide 61 can prevent axial displacement of the spring 60 and transmit the biasing force of the spring 60 to the valve 40.

[0310] The fluid control valve of the thirteenth embodiment described above can also achieve the same operational effects as those of the sixth to twelfth embodiments.

[0311] (Fourteenth embodiment)

[0312] Reference Figures 35 to 50 This embodiment is described. The fluid control valve M1 of this embodiment is, for example, a valve device used in a fluid circulation system for circulating a fluid (in this case, cooling water) that is used to adjust the temperature in the cabin of an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle and the temperature of the battery. The fluid circulation system is a system that circulates cooling water through the vehicle's power source, radiator, heater core for cabin air conditioning, battery, etc. As cooling water, for example, LLC (Long Life Coolant) containing ethylene glycol is used. The fluid control valve M1 switches the flow path of the fluid flowing in the fluid circulation system or adjusts the flow rate.

[0313] First, the structure of the fluid control valve M1 of this embodiment will be described. Figures 35 to 39 As shown, the fluid control valve M1 of this embodiment includes a housing M10, a housing cover M20, a drive unit M30, a valve M60, a sealing member M70, and a biasing member M80. The fluid control valve M1 of this embodiment is configured as a valve device that switches the flow path of cooling water flowing through the fluid circulation system by rotating the valve M60 about an axis CL described below via the drive unit M30.

[0314] The fluid control valve M1 is configured to switch its operating mode to switch the flow path of the fluid flowing in the fluid circulation system. The operating mode of the fluid control valve M1 is switched by the drive unit M30. Details of the operating mode will be described later.

[0315] like Figure 38As shown, the housing M10 constitutes the outer shell of the fluid control valve M1, and a valve accommodating space AS for accommodating the valve M60 is formed on the inner side thereof. The housing M10 is a non-rotating component that does not rotate. Specifically, the housing M10 has a barrel portion M11 formed in the shape of a bottomed barrel, a bottom portion M12 forming the bottom side of the bottomed barrel, and a port forming portion M13 for the fluid to flow in and out of the valve accommodating space AS. The barrel portion M11, the bottom portion M12 and the port forming portion M13 are formed, for example, by injection molding in which a resin material flows into a mold and is fixed in a desired shape. Specifically, the housing M10 is formed, for example, of any one of a PA66 reinforced material, a PPA reinforced material or a PPS reinforced material. In addition, the reinforcing material is, for example, a component formed by combining these PA66, PPA, or PPS with glass fiber or the like. In addition, in Figure 38 In the figure, the driving unit M30 is omitted.

[0316] like Figure 38 As shown, a valve M60 and a sealing member M70 are housed in the valve housing space AS inside the housing M10. The opening side of the cylindrical portion M11 of the housing M10 is closed by a housing cover M20.

[0317] The following, such as Figure 35 As shown in FIG. 1 , various configurations are described with the direction along the axis CL being the axis direction DRa, the direction on one side of the axis direction DRa being the first axis direction DRa1, and the direction opposite to the first axis direction DRa1 being the second axis direction DRa2. In this embodiment, the opening side of the cylinder M11 is the first axis direction DRa1, and the bottom M12 side of the housing M10 is the second axis direction DRa2.

[0318] In addition, various configurations are described by setting the direction perpendicular to the axial direction DRa and extending radially from the axis CL as the radial direction DRr, and setting the direction around the axis CL with the axis CL as the circumferential direction DRc. The circumferential direction DRc is the direction in which the valve M60 rotates due to the driving force supplied by the driving unit M30. One side of the circumferential direction DRc is set as the first circumferential direction DRc1, and the other side is set as the second circumferential direction DRc2. Figure 35 The directions shown are merely examples and do not limit the installation state of the fluid control valve M1 of the present disclosure.

[0319] The barrel M11 is a portion that surrounds most of the valve M60 and is formed into a cylindrical shape. In addition, the barrel M11 is formed so that the central axis is coaxial with the axis CL. Moreover, the barrel M11 is formed into a roughly conical shape in which the outer diameter and the inner diameter decrease from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2. That is, the barrel M11 is formed into a roughly conical shape with the second axial direction DRa2 side as the vertex side and the first axial direction DRa1 side as the bottom side. In other words, in a cross section perpendicular to the axis CL, the further the barrel M11 moves from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2, the smaller the distance from the axis CL to the housing. However, the end of the barrel M11 on the first axial direction DRa1 side does not become a vertex, but is formed flatly. The barrel M11 of this embodiment functions as an outer wall portion of the shell that forms the valve accommodating space AS.

[0320] like Figure 35 As shown in FIG. 1 , a claw portion M111 for attaching the housing cover M20 is provided on the first axial direction DRa1 side of the cylindrical portion M11 . The bottom portion M12 is connected to the second axial direction DRa2 side of the cylindrical portion M11 .

[0321] In addition, if Figure 40 As shown, a circumferential seal restriction portion M112 is provided on the inner side of the barrel M11 to restrict movement of the sealing component M70 in the circumferential direction DRc. When the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, the circumferential seal restriction portion M112 restricts movement of the sealing component M70 in the circumferential direction DRc accompanying the rotation of the valve M60. The circumferential seal restriction portion M112 is formed at positions corresponding to the ends of the sealing component M70 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and the second circumferential direction DRc2 of the portion of the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel M11 where the sealing component M70 is disposed. The circumferential seal restriction portion M112 is formed to protrude toward the axis CL.

[0322] Furthermore, a plurality of openings M40 are formed in the barrel portion M11. Figures 39 to 41 As shown, the fluid flows into the valve receiving space AS, and as Figure 38 As shown, the fluid flowing into the valve accommodation space AS flows out to the outside of the housing M10. Figures 39 to 41As shown, eight openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 are formed in the barrel M11. These eight openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 are formed in the portion of the barrel M11 where the port-forming portion M13 is located. Furthermore, these eight openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 extend through the barrel M11 in the radial direction DRr. In other words, the eight openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 are formed by grooves being formed in the barrel M11.

[0323] Hereinafter, the eight openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 may be referred to as eight openings M41 to M48. Figure 41 DRr is a diagram for explaining the eight openings M41 to M48 , and schematically shows a portion of the housing M10 where the eight openings M41 to M48 are formed when the housing M10 is viewed from the direction along the radial direction DRr.

[0324] like Figures 39 to 41 As shown, the eight openings M41 to M48 are formed in a grid pattern with four openings arranged in the axial direction DRa and two openings arranged in the circumferential direction DRc. In addition, the eight openings M41 to M48 are formed to correspond to the shape of the cylindrical portion M11 having a substantially conical shape whose outer diameter and inner diameter decrease from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2. Specifically, as shown in FIG. Figure 39 and Figure 40 As shown, the opening shape of each of the eight openings M41 to M48 is generally trapezoidal, and the size in the circumferential direction DRc on the side of the second axial direction DRa2 is smaller than that on the side of the first axial direction DRa1. Furthermore, the opening area (i.e., the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the radial direction DRr) of the eight openings M41 to M48 decreases as they move from the side of the first axial direction DRa1 toward the side of the second axial direction DRa2.

[0325] The cylindrical portion M11 includes a partition portion M50 that separates the eight openings M41 to M48. Specifically, the partition portion M50 includes three circumferential partition portions M51 that separate the eight openings M41 to M48 in the axial direction DRa, and a single axial partition portion M52 that separates the eight openings M41 to M48 in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the partition portion M50 includes an outer circumferential partition portion M53 that surrounds the eight openings M41 to M48 and communicates with the three circumferential partition portions M51 and the single axial partition portion M52.

[0326] The three circumferential partitions M51 extend along the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the three circumferential partitions M51 separate the openings M41, M42, M43, and M44 of the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows, one row of four openings arranged in the axial direction DRa on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the three circumferential partitions M51 separate the openings M45, M46, M47, and M48 of the other row of four openings arranged in the axial direction DRa on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, of the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows, in the axial direction DRa.

[0327] The axial partition M52 extends along the axial direction DRa and circumferentially separates the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows: one row of openings M41, M42, M43, and M44; and the other row of openings M45, M46, M47, and M48.

[0328] The outer peripheral partition portion M53 is an outer peripheral portion surrounding the eight openings M41 to M48 and surrounds the eight openings M41 to M48 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, the second axial direction DRa2 side, the first axial direction DRa1 side, and the second axial direction DRa2 side.

[0329] In this embodiment, four of the eight openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 allow fluid to flow into the valve housing space AS. Furthermore, four of the eight openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 allow fluid to flow out of the housing M10. Hereinafter, the openings M42, M44, M45, and M47 that allow fluid to flow into the valve housing space AS are referred to as the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the third fluid inlet M45, and the fourth fluid inlet M47. Furthermore, four openings M41 , M43 , M46 , and M48 for allowing fluid to flow out of the housing M10 are defined as a first fluid outlet M41 , a second fluid outlet M43 , a third fluid outlet M46 , and a fourth fluid outlet M48 .

[0330] The first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the third fluid inlet M45, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 are inlet ports for allowing fluid to flow into the valve accommodating space AS within the housing M10. The first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 are outlet ports for allowing fluid flowing into the valve accommodating space AS within the housing M10 to flow out of the valve accommodating space AS.

[0331] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first fluid outlet portion M41, the first fluid inlet portion M42, the second fluid outlet portion M43, and the second fluid inlet portion M44 are arranged on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2. Furthermore, the third fluid inlet portion M45, the third fluid outlet portion M46, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 are arranged on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2.

[0332] That is, the first fluid inlet portion M42 and the first fluid outlet portion M41 are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. The second fluid inlet portion M44 and the second fluid outlet portion M43 are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. The third fluid inlet portion M45 and the third fluid outlet portion M46 are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. The fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0333] Furthermore, the first fluid inlet portion M42 and the third fluid outlet portion M46 are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc. The second fluid inlet portion M44 and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc. The third fluid inlet portion M45 and the first fluid outlet portion M41 are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc. The fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and the second fluid outlet portion M43 are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0334] A port forming portion M13 is provided at a position opposite to the first fluid inlet portion M42 , the second fluid inlet portion M44 , the third fluid inlet portion M45 , the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 , the first fluid outlet portion M41 , the second fluid outlet portion M43 , the third fluid outlet portion M46 , and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 .

[0335] Hereinafter, a group of openings consisting of the first fluid outlet portion M41, the first fluid inlet portion M42, the second fluid outlet portion M43, and the second fluid inlet portion M44 will sometimes be referred to as a first row of openings. Furthermore, a group of openings consisting of the third fluid inlet portion M45, the third fluid outlet portion M46, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 will sometimes be referred to as a second row of openings. Furthermore, a group of openings consisting of the third fluid inlet portion M45 and the first fluid outlet portion M41 will sometimes be referred to as a first-level opening. Furthermore, a group of openings consisting of the first fluid inlet portion M42 and the third fluid outlet portion M46 will sometimes be referred to as a second-level opening. Furthermore, a group of openings consisting of the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and the second fluid outlet portion M43 will sometimes be referred to as a third-level opening. Furthermore, a group of openings consisting of the second fluid inlet portion M44 and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 will sometimes be referred to as a fourth-level opening.

[0336] In addition, the configuration of the first fluid inlet portion M42, the second fluid inlet portion M44, the third fluid inlet portion M45, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, the first fluid outlet portion M41, the second fluid outlet portion M43, the third fluid outlet portion M46, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 is not limited to this example and can be appropriately changed. Hereinafter, the first fluid inlet portion M42, the second fluid inlet portion M44, the third fluid inlet portion M45, and the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 may sometimes be referred to as the first fluid inlet portion M42 to the fourth fluid inlet portion M47. Furthermore, the first fluid outlet portion M41, the second fluid outlet portion M43, the third fluid outlet portion M46, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 may sometimes be referred to as the first fluid outlet portion M41 to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48.

[0337] The bottom portion M12 closes a portion of the valve housing space AS and supports a rotation axis M62 of the valve M60 described later. The bottom portion M12 is formed to extend in a planar shape along the radial direction DRr and the circumferential direction DRc. Figure 38 and Figure 40 As shown, the bottom portion M12 has a support hole M121 into which the second axial direction DRa2 side of the rotation shaft M62 of the valve M60 is fitted. The support hole M121 rotatably supports the rotation shaft M62.

[0338] In addition, if Figure 40 As shown, two rotation limiting portions M122 that limit the rotation of the valve M60 are provided at the bottom M12. The rotation limiting portion M122 is formed at a position capable of abutting against a stopper M63 of the valve M60 described later. Moreover, when the valve M60 rotates toward the first circumferential direction DRc1, the stopper M63 of the valve M60 abuts against one rotation limiting portion M122, thereby suppressing the valve M60 from rotating toward the first circumferential direction DRc1. In addition, when the valve M60 rotates toward the second circumferential direction DRc2, the stopper M63 of the valve M60 abuts against the other rotation limiting portion M122, thereby suppressing the valve M60 from rotating toward the second circumferential direction DRc2. Thus, the rotation position of the valve M60 is positioned at the initial position.

[0339] Furthermore, the bottom portion M12 is provided with a radial seal restriction portion M123 that restricts movement of the sealing member M70 in the circumferential direction DRc and radial direction DRr. When the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, the radial seal restriction portion M123 restricts movement of the sealing member M70 in the circumferential direction DRc as the valve M60 rotates, and also restricts inward movement of the sealing member M70 in the radial direction DRr. The radial seal restriction portion M123, at its end in the radial direction DRr of the cylindrical portion M11, is formed into a groove that is recessed along the circumferential direction DRc from one circumferential seal restriction portion M112 to the other circumferential seal restriction portion M112.

[0340] The port-forming portion M13 allows fluid to flow into the valve-accommodating space AS and to flow out of the housing M10. The port-forming portion M13 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, with the axial direction DRa extending longitudinally. The port-forming portion M13 includes flow holes M131 that communicate with the first through fourth fluid inlets M42, M47, and the first through fourth fluid outlets M41, M48, respectively. The flow holes M131 extend through the port-forming portion M13 in the radial direction DRr.

[0341] The housing cover M20 blocks the opening side of the cylindrical portion M11 in the housing M10 to close the valve accommodating space AS and supports the rotation axis M62 of the valve M60. Figure 38 As shown, the housing cover M20 includes a bearing M21 and a cover seal M23. The bearing M21 supports the rotating shaft M62 of the valve M60 on the first axial direction DRa1 side. The cover seal M23 is annular and seals the gap between the shaft hole M22 in the housing cover M20, into which the rotating shaft M62 is inserted, and the rotating shaft M62. Furthermore, the housing cover M20 is provided with a drive unit seal M24 that seals the gap between the portion of the housing cover M20 into which the drive unit M30 is inserted and the drive unit M30.

[0342] The bearing portion M21 is composed of, for example, a ball bearing or a rolling bearing, and rotatably supports the rotating shaft M62. The cover seal M23 is composed of, for example, an O-ring formed from an elastically deformable rubber member. Furthermore, the cover seal M23 ensures sealing between the housing cover M20 and the rotating shaft M62. The drive unit seal M24 is composed of, for example, an O-ring formed from an elastically deformable rubber member. Furthermore, the drive unit seal M24 ensures sealing between the housing cover M20 and the drive unit M30.

[0343] In addition, if Figures 35 to 37 As shown, the housing cover M20 has a snap-fitting receiving portion M25 on the first axial direction DRa1 side that engages with a claw portion M111 provided on the cylindrical portion M11. Furthermore, the housing cover M20 is attached to the cylindrical portion M11 by engaging the claw portion M111 with the snap-fitting receiving portion M25. In other words, the housing cover M20 is secured to the cylindrical portion M11 via a snap fit.

[0344] Furthermore, the housing cover M20 includes a cover screw receiving portion M26 on the second axial direction DRa2 side into which the screw member S is inserted.

[0345] Furthermore, a driving unit M30 is provided on the first axial direction DRa1 side of the housing cover M20. The driving unit M30 is fixed to the housing cover M20 by screw members S inserted into the cover screw receiving portions M26 of the housing cover M20.

[0346] The drive unit M30 is an actuator for outputting a rotational force to rotate the valve M60. The drive unit M30 includes a motor (not shown) serving as the driving source for rotating the valve M60, and a reduction mechanism (not shown) that transmits the motor's output to the rotating shaft M62 of the valve M60. The motor can be, for example, a servo motor, a stepper motor, or a brushless motor. The reduction mechanism can be, for example, a gear mechanism including helical gears or spur gears. Although not shown, the motor rotates in response to a control signal from a control unit electrically connected to the motor.

[0347] The control unit can be a computer having a memory as a non-transitory physical storage medium and a processor. For example, the control unit is a control device that executes a computer program stored in the memory and performs various control processes according to the computer program. The control unit executes the computer program stored in the memory and transmits a control signal to the fluid control valve M1 that changes the rotational position of the valve M60. The fluid control valve M1 switches its operating mode based on the control signal transmitted from the control unit.

[0348] The valve M60 is a valve component that switches the flow of the fluid. The valve component rotates around the axis CL by the rotational force output by the driving unit M30, thereby switching the flow of the fluid to the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48. Figure 38 As shown, the valve M60 is rotatably disposed within the valve accommodation space AS, positioned so as not to abut against the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel M11. Specifically, the valve M60 is positioned so as to form a predetermined gap between the valve M60 and the barrel M11. Furthermore, the valve M60 is formed so that its central axis is coaxial with the axis CL and also coaxial with the central axis of the barrel M11.

[0349] The valve M60 has a generally conical shape, with an outer diameter that decreases from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2. Specifically, the valve M60 has a generally conical shape with the apex on the second axial direction DRa2 side and the base on the first axial direction DRa1 side. In other words, in a cross section perpendicular to the axial center CL, the distance from the axial center CL to the housing decreases as the valve moves from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2. However, the end of the valve M60 on the first axial direction DRa1 side does not form a apex, but is instead formed flat.

[0350] like Figure 38 and Figure 42As shown, the valve M60 includes a valve outer wall portion M61 forming a substantially conical outer shell, a rotating shaft M62, and a stopper M63. These valve outer wall portion M61, rotating shaft M62, and stopper M63 are integrally formed. For example, the valve outer wall portion M61, rotating shaft M62, and stopper M63 are formed from any of a PA66 reinforced material, a PPA reinforced material, a PPS reinforced material, or a phenol (hereinafter referred to as "PF") reinforced material.

[0351] Here, a cone having the same axis as the rotation axis M62 of the valve M60 is defined. Figure 38 As shown in FIG. 1 , the valve M60 is formed with a valve outer wall portion M61 along the side of the conical shape. The valve outer wall portion M61 has an outer peripheral surface M611 that faces the cylindrical portion M11 and faces the inner peripheral surface M16 of the cylindrical portion M11 in the radial direction DRr. Figure 42 As shown, the internal angle θ formed between the generatrix of the cone parallel to the valve outer wall portion M61 and the rotation axis M62 (i.e., the axis CL) is set to be greater than 5 degrees. In other words, the internal angle θ formed between the generatrix along the outer peripheral surface M611 and the axis CL is set to be greater than 5 degrees. In this embodiment, the internal angle θ is set to 7 degrees. Furthermore, if the internal angle θ is greater than 5 degrees, it can be set to an angle less than 7 degrees or greater than 7 degrees.

[0352] Furthermore, the valve outer wall portion M61 has a conical shape that follows the cylindrical portion M11. Specifically, the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall portion M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylindrical portion M11, at their opposing locations, are substantially parallel, and the distance between the outer circumferential surface M611 and the inner circumferential surface M16 in the radial direction DRr is substantially constant. In other words, the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylindrical portion M11, which forms the valve accommodating space AS, follows the side surface of a similar conical shape as the valve outer wall portion M61. In other words, the cylindrical portion M11 has a conical shape that follows the valve outer wall portion M61.

[0353] In addition, if Figure 42 As shown, a plurality of fluid passages M64 are formed on the valve outer wall portion M61, corresponding to eight openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 arranged in four rows in the axial direction DRa and in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc. Figure 44 As shown, ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j for fluid circulation are formed on the valve outer wall portion M61.

[0354] Furthermore, multiple sealing portions M65 are formed on the valve outer wall M61. These sealing portions M65 prevent fluid from flowing into the valve housing space AS. Specifically, six sealing portions M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f are formed on the valve outer wall M61. These ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j and the six sealing portions M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f are formed so that when the valve M60 rotates, any one of them faces any of the eight openings M41 to M48. In addition, ribs M66 are formed on the valve outer wall portion M61 to separate the ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j and the six closing portions M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f respectively.

[0355] These ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j switch the flow of fluid into and out of the fluid control valve M1 by rotating the valve M60 to switch the openings facing each other among the eight openings M41 to M48. Furthermore, the six blocking portions M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f switch the flow of fluid into and out of the opposing openings by rotating the valve M60 to switch the openings facing each other among the eight openings M41 to M48. Moreover, the rib M66 is formed to surround each of the ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, M64j and the six closing portions M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, M65f.

[0356] Hereinafter, the ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j may be referred to as the ten fluid passages M64a to M64j. Furthermore, the ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j may be referred to as the first fluid passage M64a, the second fluid passage M64b, the third fluid passage M64c, the fourth fluid passage M64d, the fifth fluid passage M64e, the sixth fluid passage M64f, the seventh fluid passage M64g, the eighth fluid passage M64h, the ninth fluid passage M64i, and the tenth fluid passage M64j. Moreover, the first fluid passage M64a, the second fluid passage M64b, the third fluid passage M64c, the fourth fluid passage M64d, the fifth fluid passage M64e, the sixth fluid passage M64f, the seventh fluid passage M64g, the eighth fluid passage M64h, the ninth fluid passage M64i, and the tenth fluid passage M64j are sometimes referred to as the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j.

[0357] In addition, the six closed parts M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f are sometimes referred to as the six closed parts M65a to M65f. In addition, the six closed parts M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f are referred to as the first closed part M65a, the second closed part M65b, the third closed part M65c, the fourth closed part M65d, the fifth closed part M65e, and the sixth closed part M65f. Moreover, the first closed part M65a, the second closed part M65b, the third closed part M65c, the fourth closed part M65d, the fifth closed part M65e, and the sixth closed part M65f are sometimes referred to as the first closed part M65a to the sixth closed part M65f. In addition, the side of the valve M60 that is opposite to the eight openings M41 to M48 is referred to as the front side, and the side opposite to the front side is referred to as the back side. Any one of the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and any one of the first to sixth closing portions M65a to M65f of the valve M60 positioned on the front side are opposite to the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 and the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48.

[0358] The ten fluid passages M64a to M64j are formed in the valve outer wall portion M61 by being recessed toward the axis CL along at least one of the axial direction DRa and the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the ten fluid passages M64a to M64j that are formed along the valve outer wall portion M61 and are located at the same position in the axial direction DRa are formed at overlapping positions in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the ten fluid passages M64a to M64j are formed so as to have approximately the same size in the radial direction DRr. In other words, the ten recessed fluid passages M64a to M64j are formed so as to have approximately the same size in the depth direction.

[0359] Furthermore, each of the ten fluid passages M64a to M64j is formed by combining multiple substantially trapezoidal shapes corresponding to the eight openings M41 to M48, each of which has a lattice-like opening shape. Specifically, the opening shape of each of the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j is formed by combining multiple trapezoidal shapes whose size in the circumferential direction DRc is smaller on the second axial direction DRa2 side than on the first axial direction DRa1 side. Furthermore, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j are sized so that, when the valve M60 is rotated and positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to M48, they can span two or more of the eight openings M41 to M48.

[0360] Here, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j are formed to enable at least one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 to communicate with at least one of the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48. Thus, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j can guide a fluid flowing from any of the connected fluid inlets from the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 to any of the connected fluid outlet portions from the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48.

[0361] The first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f are formed so that, when opposed to any of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47, they can prevent fluid from flowing into the valve accommodating space AS from the opposed inlet portion. Specifically, the first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f have opening shapes corresponding to those of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47, respectively, and are recessed toward the axis CL. In other words, the first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f are recessed in a substantially trapezoidal shape.

[0362] Furthermore, the first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f are formed so that, when facing any of the first to fourth fluid outlets M41 to M48, they can prevent fluid from flowing out of the facing outlet. Specifically, the first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f have opening shapes corresponding to those of the first to fourth fluid outlets M41 to M48, respectively, and are recessed toward the axis CL. In other words, the first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f are recessed in a substantially trapezoidal shape.

[0363] Furthermore, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first to sixth closed sections M65a to M65f are each separated by a rib M66. The rib M66 includes an axial rib M66a extending along the axial direction DRa and a circumferential rib M66b extending along the circumferential direction DRc. The axial rib M66a is formed so that it can oppose the axial partition M52 when the valve M60 rotates. The circumferential rib M66b is formed so that it can oppose the circumferential partition M51 when the valve M60 rotates. Furthermore, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first to sixth closed sections M65a to M65f are each surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b. For example, the axial side ribs M66a and the circumferential side ribs M66b surrounding the first to sixth closed portions M65a to M65f are formed at positions opposite to the axial side partitions M52 and the circumferential side partitions M51 surrounding any one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47.

[0364] In this embodiment, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first to sixth closed sections M65a to M65f are formed adjacent to each other. Furthermore, the ribs M66 that separate the adjacent first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first to sixth closed sections M65a to M65f are formed by continuously integrating the axial ribs M66a and circumferential ribs M66b that separate the adjacent sections.

[0365] Reference Figure 44 and Figure 45 The specific shapes and formation positions of the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f will be described. Figure 44 and Figure 45 The valves M60 shown in the figure show the front side of each valve M60 when the valve M60 is rotated in the circumferential direction DRc to identify the fluid passages and the closed portions facing the eight openings M41 to 48. Figure 44 and Figure 45In the figure, the grid-like blocks schematically illustrate the areas where ten fluid passages M64a to M64j and first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f are formed when the valve M60 is deployed along the circumferential direction DRc. The grids represent ribs M66. Furthermore, solid lines within the grids indicate areas where ribs M66 are formed. Dashed lines indicate areas where ribs M66 are not formed.

[0366] like Figure 44 and Figure 45 As shown, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first to sixth closed portions M65a to M65f are formed throughout the entirety of the valve outer wall portion M61 in the axial direction DRa and in the entirety of the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first to sixth closed portions M65a to M65f are formed when the valve outer wall portion M61 is divided into multiple columns in the circumferential direction DRc and when the valve outer wall portion is divided into multiple stages in the axial direction DRa.

[0367] Furthermore, when each row of fluid passages is defined as a single unit of flow path, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j form ten units on the valve outer wall M61. Specifically, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j form any one or more of the ten rows formed when the valve outer wall M61 is divided in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc such that the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j, which face the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc, change for each row.

[0368] Here, the valve outer wall portion M61 is divided into four in the axial direction DRa and into ten in the circumferential direction DRc. Each area of ​​the valve outer wall portion M61 is defined as a partition. One partition corresponds to each of the eight openings M41 to M48. Figure 44 and Figure 45 In the figure, for easy understanding, the size of each partition is shown in the same shape.

[0369] Furthermore, when the valve outer wall portion M61 is divided into four sections in the axial direction DRa, the sections are defined as a first-level section, a second-level section, a third-level section, and a fourth-level section, from the first axial direction DRa1 side toward the second axial direction DRa2 side. Furthermore, when the valve outer wall portion M61 is divided into ten sections in the circumferential direction DRc, the sections are defined as a first column section, a second column section, a third column section, a fourth column section, a fifth column section, a sixth column section, a seventh column section, an eighth column section, a ninth column section, and a tenth column section, from the first axial direction DRa1 side toward the second axial direction DRa2 side. These columns correspond to the aforementioned units.

[0370] When defined in this manner, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j are formed by combining multiple partitions positioned at any one of the first to fourth stages and any one of the first to tenth columns. Furthermore, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j are formed at positions that are opposite to any one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 and can be opposite to any one of the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48. Furthermore, the first to sixth closed portions M65a to M65f correspond to a partition positioned at any one of the first to fourth stages and any one of the first to tenth columns. Furthermore, the first to sixth closed portions M65a to M65f are formed at positions that can be opposite to any one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 or any one of the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48. Hereinafter, the shapes and positions of the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first to sixth sealing portions M65a to M65f will be described using zones.

[0371] The first fluid passage M64a has a shape formed by combining the first-order and first-row partitions with the second-order and first-row partitions. Furthermore, the first fluid passage M64a is divided by an axial rib M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and second circumferential direction DRc2 sides, and is divided by a circumferential rib M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and second axial direction DRa2 sides. Furthermore, the first fluid passage M64a has a shape in which no circumferential rib M66b is formed between the first-order and first-row partitions and the second-order and first-row partitions.

[0372] The first fluid passage M64a constructed in this manner can span two openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc and the first fluid passage M64a is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to M48. The first fluid passage M64a can be opposite the first-stage opening and the second-stage opening. Moreover, the first fluid passage M64a can connect the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the first fluid passage M64a can connect the third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0373] In this case, in the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M42 and first fluid outlet portion M41, the first fluid inlet portion M42 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the first fluid outlet portion M41 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, in the mutually adjacent third fluid inlet portion M45 and third fluid outlet portion M46, the third fluid inlet portion M45 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the third fluid outlet portion M46 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0374] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc and the first fluid passage M64a is positioned so as to connect the first fluid inlet M42 with the first fluid outlet M41, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that separate the first fluid passage M64a are opposed to the partition M50 that separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41 from the fluid inlet and outlet portions other than these. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the circumferential partition M51 that separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41.

[0375] The second fluid passage M64b has a shape formed by combining the third-order and first-row partitions with the fourth-order and first-row partitions. Furthermore, the second fluid passage M64b is divided by the axial rib M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and the second circumferential direction DRc2 sides, and is also divided by the circumferential rib M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and the second axial direction DRa2 sides. Furthermore, the second fluid passage M64b has no circumferential rib M66b formed between the third-order and first-row partitions and the fourth-order and first-row partitions.

[0376] The second fluid passage M64b configured in this manner can span two openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc and the second fluid passage M64b is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to 48. The second fluid passage M64b can be opposite the third-stage opening and the fourth-stage opening. Furthermore, the second fluid passage M64b can connect the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the second fluid passage M64b can connect the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0377] In this case, in the mutually adjacent second fluid inlet portion M44 and second fluid outlet portion M43, the second fluid inlet portion M44 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the second fluid outlet portion M43 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, in the mutually adjacent fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and fourth fluid outlet portion M48, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0378] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc and the second fluid passage M64b is positioned so as to connect the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that separate the second fluid passage M64b are opposed to the partition M50 that separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43 from other fluid inlets and outlets. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the circumferential partition M51 that separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0379] The third fluid passage M64c has a shape formed by combining the first-stage and second-row partitions through the first-stage and sixth-row partitions with the second-stage and second-row partitions. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M64c is divided by axial ribs M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and second circumferential direction DRc2 sides, and is divided by circumferential ribs M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and second axial direction DRa2 sides. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M64c has a shape in which no circumferential ribs M66b are formed between the first-stage and second-row partitions and the second-stage and second-row partitions, and no axial ribs M66a are formed between the first-stage and second-row partitions through the first-stage and sixth-row partitions.

[0380] The third fluid passage M64c constructed in this manner can span two openings in the axial direction DRa and two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M64c can span three adjacent openings in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc and the third fluid passage M64c is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to M48. The third fluid passage M64c can face both the first-stage opening and the second-stage opening. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M64c can connect the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M64c can connect the third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M64c can connect the third fluid inlet M45 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc. In addition, the third fluid passage M64c can allow the first fluid inlet portion M42, the first fluid outlet portion M41, and the third fluid inlet portion M45, which are adjacent to each other in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc, to communicate with each other.

[0381] In this case, in the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M42 and first fluid outlet portion M41, the first fluid inlet portion M42 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the first fluid outlet portion M41 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, in the mutually adjacent third fluid inlet portion M45 and third fluid outlet portion M46, the third fluid inlet portion M45 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the third fluid outlet portion M46 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, in the mutually adjacent third fluid inlet portion M45 and first fluid outlet portion M41, the third fluid inlet portion M45 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the first fluid outlet portion M41 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0382] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the third fluid passage M64c at a position where the first fluid inlet M42 communicates with the first fluid outlet M41, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the third fluid passage M64c oppose the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, and the third fluid inlet M45 from the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions other than these. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that opposes the circumferential partition M51 that divides the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41.

[0383] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc and positions the third fluid passage M64c at a position where the third fluid inlet M45 communicates with the first fluid outlet M41, the shaft-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposing the shaft-side partition M52 that separates the third fluid inlet M45 from the first fluid outlet M41.

[0384] The fourth fluid passage M64d has a shape formed by combining the third-stage, second-row partitions with the fourth-stage, second-row partitions. Furthermore, the fourth fluid passage M64d is partitioned by the axial rib M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and the second circumferential direction DRc2, and by the circumferential rib M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and the second axial direction DRa2. Furthermore, the fourth fluid passage M64d has a shape in which no circumferential rib M66b is formed between the third-stage, second-row partitions and the fourth-stage, second-row partitions.

[0385] The fourth fluid passage M64d configured in this manner can span two openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc and the fourth fluid passage M64d is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to M48. The fourth fluid passage M64d can be opposite the third-stage opening and the fourth-stage opening. Furthermore, the fourth fluid passage M64d can connect the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the fourth fluid passage M64d can connect the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0386] In this case, in the mutually adjacent second fluid inlet portion M44 and second fluid outlet portion M43, the second fluid inlet portion M44 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the second fluid outlet portion M43 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, in the mutually adjacent fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and fourth fluid outlet portion M48, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0387] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the fourth fluid passage M64d at a position connecting the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the fourth fluid passage M64d oppose the partition M50 that divides the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43 from other fluid inlets and outlets. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position opposing the circumferential partition M51 that divides the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0388] The fifth fluid passage M64e has a shape formed by combining the second-stage and third-row sections through the fourth-stage and third-row sections. Furthermore, the fifth fluid passage M64e is divided by axial ribs M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and second circumferential direction DRc2 sides, and is divided by circumferential ribs M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and second axial direction DRa2 sides. Furthermore, the fifth fluid passage M64e has a shape in which no circumferential ribs M66b are formed between the sections from the second-stage and third-row sections to the fourth-stage and third-row sections.

[0389] The fifth fluid passage M64e constructed in this manner can span three openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated in the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the fifth fluid passage M64e opposite the eight openings M41 to M48. The fifth fluid passage M64e can be opposite the second-stage openings to the fourth-stage openings. Furthermore, the fifth fluid passage M64e can connect the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the fifth fluid passage M64e can connect the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0390] In this case, among the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M42, second fluid inlet portion M44, and second fluid outlet portion M43, the first fluid inlet portion M42 and the second fluid inlet portion M44 correspond to the third adjacent inlet portion, and the second fluid outlet portion M43 corresponds to the third adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, among the mutually adjacent third fluid outlet portion M46, fourth fluid inlet portion M47, and fourth fluid outlet portion M48, the third fluid inlet portion M45 corresponds to the second adjacent inlet portion, and the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 correspond to the second adjacent outlet portion.

[0391] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc, the fifth fluid passage M64e is positioned so as to connect the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43. The axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the fifth fluid passage M64e are opposed to the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43 from other fluid inlets and outlets. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the circumferential partition M51 that divides the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0392] The sixth fluid passage M64f has a shape formed by combining the second-stage and fourth-row partitions with the third-stage and fourth-row partitions. Furthermore, the sixth fluid passage M64f is partitioned by an axial rib M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and second circumferential direction DRc2 sides, and by a circumferential rib M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and second axial direction DRa2 sides. Furthermore, the sixth fluid passage M64f has a shape in which no circumferential rib M66b is formed between the second-stage and fourth-row partitions and the third-stage and fourth-row partitions.

[0393] The sixth fluid passage M64f constructed in this manner can span two openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc and the sixth fluid passage M64f is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to M48. The sixth fluid passage M64f can be opposite the second-stage openings and the third-stage openings. Furthermore, the sixth fluid passage M64f can connect the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the sixth fluid passage M64f can connect the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0394] In this case, in the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M42 and second fluid outlet portion M43, the first fluid inlet portion M42 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the second fluid outlet portion M43 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, in the mutually adjacent fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and third fluid outlet portion M46, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the third fluid outlet portion M46 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0395] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the sixth fluid passage M64f at a position connecting the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the sixth fluid passage M64f oppose the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43 from the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions other than these. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position opposing the circumferential partition M51 that divides the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0396] The seventh fluid passage M64g has a shape formed by combining the third-stage and fifth-row partitions, the fourth-stage and fifth-row partitions, and the third-stage and sixth-row partitions. Furthermore, the seventh fluid passage M64g is divided by axial ribs M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and second circumferential direction DRc2 sides, and by circumferential ribs M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and second axial direction DRa2 sides. Furthermore, the seventh fluid passage M64g has a shape in which no circumferential ribs M66b are formed between the third-stage and fifth-row partitions and the fourth-stage and fifth-row partitions, and no axial ribs M66a are formed between the third-stage and fifth-row partitions and the third-stage and sixth-row partitions.

[0397] The seventh fluid passage M64g constructed in this manner can span two openings in the axial direction DRa and two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the seventh fluid passage M64g can span three openings that are adjacent to each other in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc and the seventh fluid passage M64g is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to M48. The seventh fluid passage M64g can be opposite the third-stage opening and the fourth-stage opening. Furthermore, the seventh fluid passage M64g can connect the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 that are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the seventh fluid passage M64g can connect the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 that are adjacent to each other in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc.

[0398] In this case, of the mutually adjacent fourth fluid inlet M47 and fourth fluid outlet M48, the fourth fluid inlet M47 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet. Furthermore, of the mutually adjacent second fluid inlet M44, second fluid outlet M43, and fourth fluid inlet M47, the second fluid inlet M44 and fourth fluid inlet M47 correspond to the third adjacent inlet, and the second fluid outlet M43 corresponds to the third adjacent outlet.

[0399] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the seventh fluid passage M64g at a position where the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 are in communication, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the seventh fluid passage M64g are opposed to the partition M50 that divides the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 from other fluid inlets and outlets. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the circumferential partition M51 that divides the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0400] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc and the seventh fluid passage M64g is positioned so as to connect the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fourth fluid inlet M47, the shaft-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposing the shaft-side partition M52 that separates the second fluid outlet M43 from the fourth fluid inlet M47.

[0401] The eighth fluid passage M64h has a shape formed by combining the first-stage and seventh-row sections through the fourth-stage and seventh-row sections. Furthermore, the eighth fluid passage M64h is divided by axial ribs M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and second circumferential direction DRc2 sides, and is divided by circumferential ribs M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and second axial direction DRa2 sides. Furthermore, the eighth fluid passage M64h has a shape in which no circumferential ribs M66b are formed between the first-stage and seventh-row sections through the fourth-stage and seventh-row sections.

[0402] The eighth fluid passage M64h constructed in this manner can span four openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc and the eighth fluid passage M64h is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to M48. The eighth fluid passage M64h can be opposite the first-stage openings to the fourth-stage openings. Furthermore, the eighth fluid passage M64h can connect the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the eighth fluid passage M64h can connect the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0403] In this case, among the first fluid outlet portion M41, the first fluid inlet portion M42, the second fluid outlet portion M43, and the second fluid inlet portion M44 that are adjacent to each other, the first fluid inlet portion M42 and the second fluid inlet portion M44 correspond to the fourth adjacent inlet portion. Among the first fluid outlet portion M41, the first fluid inlet portion M42, the second fluid outlet portion M43, and the second fluid inlet portion M44 that are adjacent to each other, the first fluid outlet portion M41 and the second fluid outlet portion M43 correspond to the fourth adjacent outlet portion. In addition, among the third fluid inlet portion M45, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, the third fluid outlet portion M46, and the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 that are adjacent to each other, the third fluid outlet portion M45 and the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 correspond to the fourth adjacent inlet portion. Among the third fluid inlet portion M45, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, the third fluid outlet portion M46, and the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 that are adjacent to each other, the third fluid outlet portion M46 and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 correspond to the fourth adjacent outlet portion.

[0404] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the eighth fluid passage M64h at a position where the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44 are connected, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the eighth fluid passage M64h are opposed to the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44 from fluid inlets and fluid outlets different from these. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the circumferential partition M51 that divides the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44, respectively.

[0405] The ninth fluid passage M64i has a shape that is a combination of the first-stage and eighth-row partitions to the fourth-stage and eighth-row partitions, the first-stage and ninth-row partitions, the second-stage and ninth-row partitions, and the fourth-stage and ninth-row partitions. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i is divided by axial ribs M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and the second circumferential direction DRc2 sides, and by circumferential ribs M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and the second axial direction DRa2 sides. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i has a shape in which no circumferential ribs M66b are formed between the first-stage and eighth-row partitions to the fourth-stage and eighth-row partitions, and no circumferential ribs M66b are formed between the first-stage and ninth-row partitions and the second-stage and ninth-row partitions. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i has a shape in which no axial ribs M66a are formed between the first-stage and eighth-row partitions and the first-stage and ninth-row partitions, or between the second-stage and eighth-row partitions and the second-stage and ninth-row partitions. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i has a shape in which the axial rib M66a is not formed between the fourth-order and eighth-row partition and the fourth-order and ninth-row partition.

[0406] The ninth fluid passage M64i thus constructed can span two or four openings in the axial direction DRa and two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i can span seven adjacent openings in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc.

[0407] Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc and the ninth fluid passage M64i is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to 48. The ninth fluid passage M64i can be opposite the first-stage opening and the second-stage opening, or can be opposite the first-stage opening to the fourth-stage opening. Moreover, the ninth fluid passage M64i can connect the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41 that are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. In addition, the ninth fluid passage M64i can connect the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 that are adjacent to each other in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc.

[0408] In this case, among the mutually adjacent first fluid outlet portion M41 and first fluid inlet portion M42, the first fluid inlet portion M42 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the first fluid outlet portion M41 corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. In addition, among the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M42, first fluid outlet portion M41, second fluid inlet portion M44, second fluid outlet portion M43, third fluid inlet portion M45, third fluid outlet portion M46, and fourth fluid outlet portion M48, the first fluid inlet portion M42, second fluid inlet portion M44, and third fluid inlet portion M45 correspond to the fourth adjacent inlet portion. Among the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M42, first fluid outlet portion M41, second fluid inlet portion M44, second fluid outlet portion M43, third fluid inlet portion M45, third fluid outlet portion M46, and fourth fluid outlet portion M48, the first fluid outlet portion M41, second fluid outlet portion M43, third fluid outlet portion M46, and fourth fluid outlet portion M48 correspond to the fourth adjacent outlet portion.

[0409] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc and the ninth fluid passage M64i is positioned so as to connect the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the ninth fluid passage M64i are opposed to the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 from the fourth fluid inlet M47 that is different from these.

[0410] Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position opposing the circumferential partition M51 that separates the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position opposing the circumferential partition M51 that separates the third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46.

[0411] Furthermore, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite to the axial-side partition M52 that separates the first fluid outlet M41 and the third fluid inlet M45, or at a position opposite to the axial-side partition M52 that separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the third fluid outlet M46. Furthermore, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite to the axial-side partition M52 that separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0412] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc and the ninth fluid passage M64i is positioned so as to connect the first fluid inlet M42 with the first fluid outlet M41, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposing the axial-side partition M52 on the side of the axial-side partition M52 that divides the first fluid inlet M42 and on which the third fluid outlet M46 is not present in the circumferential direction DRc (i.e., on the side of the first circumferential direction DRc1). Furthermore, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposing the axial-side partition M52 on the side of the axial-side partition M52 that divides the second fluid inlet M44 and on which the fourth fluid outlet M48 is not present in the circumferential direction DRc (i.e., on the side of the first circumferential direction DRc1). Furthermore, the axial side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite to the axial side partition M52 on the side where the third fluid inlet M45 does not exist in the circumferential direction DRc (i.e., the first circumferential direction DRc1 side) in the axial side partition M52 that divides the first fluid outlet M41.

[0413] The tenth fluid passage M64j has a shape formed by combining the subsections from the second level and tenth row to the subsections from the fourth level and tenth row. Furthermore, the tenth fluid passage M64j is divided by axial ribs M66a on the first circumferential direction DRc1 and the second circumferential direction DRc2, and is divided by circumferential ribs M66b on the first axial direction DRa1 and the second axial direction DRa2. Furthermore, the tenth fluid passage M64j has a shape in which no circumferential ribs M66b are formed between the subsections from the second level and tenth row to the fourth level and tenth row.

[0414] The tenth fluid passage M64j constructed in this manner can span three openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc and the tenth fluid passage M64j is positioned opposite the eight openings M41 to M48. The tenth fluid passage M64j can be opposite the second-stage openings to the fourth-stage openings. Furthermore, the tenth fluid passage M64j can connect the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the tenth fluid passage M64j can connect the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0415] In this case, among the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M42, second fluid inlet portion M44, and second fluid outlet portion M43, the first fluid inlet portion M42 and the second fluid inlet portion M44 correspond to the third adjacent inlet portion, and the second fluid outlet portion M43 corresponds to the third adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, among the mutually adjacent third fluid outlet portion M46, fourth fluid inlet portion M47, and fourth fluid outlet portion M48, the third fluid inlet portion M45 corresponds to the second adjacent inlet portion, and the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 correspond to the second adjacent outlet portion.

[0416] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the tenth fluid passage M64j at a position where the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43 are in communication, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the tenth fluid passage M64j are opposed to the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43 from the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions different therefrom. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the circumferential partition M51 that divides the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43, respectively.

[0417] The first closing portion M65a is formed in the fourth level and fourth column partition. Moreover, the first closing portion M65a is surrounded by the axial side ribs M66a and the circumferential side ribs M66b. The first closing portion M65a thus constructed can be opposite to the fourth level opening when the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc and positioned at a position opposite to the eight openings M41 to M48. Moreover, when the first closing portion M65a is positioned at a position opposite to the second fluid inlet portion M44, it closes the second fluid inlet portion M44, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing into the second fluid inlet portion M44. In addition, when the first closing portion M65a is positioned at a position opposite to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48, it closes the fourth fluid outlet portion M48, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing out of the fourth fluid outlet portion M48.

[0418] The second closing portion M65b is formed in the partition of the second level and the fifth column. Moreover, the second closing portion M65b is surrounded by the axial side ribs M66a and the circumferential side ribs M66b. The second closing portion M65b thus constructed can be opposite to the second-level opening portion when the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc and positioned at a position opposite to the eight opening portions M41 to M48. Moreover, when the second closing portion M65b is positioned at a position opposite to the first fluid inlet portion M42, it closes the first fluid inlet portion M42, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing into the first fluid inlet portion M42. In addition, when the second closing portion M65b is positioned at a position opposite to the third fluid outlet portion M46, it closes the third fluid outlet portion M46, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing out of the third fluid outlet portion M46.

[0419] The third closing portion M65c is formed in the second-level and sixth-column partition. Moreover, the third closing portion M65c is surrounded by the axial side ribs M66a and the circumferential side ribs M66b. The third closing portion M65c thus constructed can be opposite to the second-level opening portion when the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc and positioned at a position opposite to the eight opening portions M41 to M48. Moreover, when the third closing portion M65c is positioned at a position opposite to the first fluid inlet portion M42, it closes the first fluid inlet portion M42, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing into the first fluid inlet portion M42. In addition, when the third closing portion M65c is positioned at a position opposite to the third fluid outlet portion M46, it closes the third fluid outlet portion M46, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing out of the third fluid outlet portion M46.

[0420] The fourth closing portion M65d is formed in the partition of the fourth level and the sixth column. Moreover, the fourth closing portion M65d is surrounded by the axial side ribs M66a and the circumferential side ribs M66b. The fourth closing portion M65d thus constructed can be opposite to the fourth-level opening when the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc and positioned at a position opposite to the eight openings M41 to M48. Moreover, when the fourth closing portion M65d is positioned at a position opposite to the second fluid inlet portion M44, it closes the second fluid inlet portion M44, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing into the second fluid inlet portion M44. In addition, when the fourth closing portion M65d is positioned at a position opposite to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48, it closes the fourth fluid outlet portion M48, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing out of the fourth fluid outlet portion M48.

[0421] The fifth closing portion M65e is formed in the partition of the third level and the ninth column. Moreover, the fifth closing portion M65e is surrounded by the axial side ribs M66a and the circumferential side ribs M66b. The fifth closing portion M65e thus constructed can be opposite to the third-level opening portion when the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc and positioned at a position opposite to the eight opening portions M41 to M48. Moreover, when the fifth closing portion M65e is positioned at a position opposite to the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, it closes the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing into the fourth fluid inlet portion M47. In addition, when the fifth closing portion M65e is positioned at a position opposite to the second fluid outlet portion M43, it closes the second fluid outlet portion M43, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing out of the second fluid outlet portion M43.

[0422] The sixth closing portion M65f is formed in the first-level and tenth-column partition. Moreover, the sixth closing portion M65f is surrounded by the axial side ribs M66a and the circumferential side ribs M66b. The sixth closing portion M65f thus constructed can be opposite to the first-level opening portion when the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc and positioned at a position opposite to the eight opening portions M41 to M48. Moreover, when the sixth closing portion M65f is positioned at a position opposite to the third fluid inlet portion M45, it closes the third fluid inlet portion M45, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing into the third fluid inlet portion M45. In addition, when the sixth closing portion M65f is positioned at a position opposite to the first fluid outlet portion M41, it closes the first fluid outlet portion M41, thereby prohibiting the fluid from flowing out of the first fluid outlet portion M41.

[0423] The valve M60 also includes a rotational shaft M62 that protrudes from both the first axial direction DRa1 and the second axial direction DRa2. The portion of the rotational shaft M62 that protrudes toward the first axial direction DRa1 is rotatably supported by a bearing M21, while the portion of the rotational shaft M62 that protrudes toward the second axial direction DRa2 is rotatable through a support hole M121 formed in the bottom portion M12. Furthermore, the end of the rotational shaft M62 that protrudes toward the first axial direction DRa1 passes through the housing cover M20 and is connected to the speed reduction mechanism of the drive unit M30.

[0424] Furthermore, the valve M60 is provided with a stopper M63 on a surface on the second axial direction DRa2 side, located at a position different from the position facing the housing cover M20. The stopper M63 is formed to extend along the axial direction DRa, toward the second axial direction DRa2, at a position away from the rotation axis M62 in the radial direction DRr. Furthermore, the stopper M63 is formed at a position opposite the rotation restricting portion M122 in the circumferential direction DRc, and can abut against the rotation restricting portion M122 when the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, a sealing component M70 is provided between the valve outer wall portion M61 of the valve M60 and the cylindrical portion M11 of the housing M10.

[0425] The sealing member M70 is disposed at a location where eight openings M41 to M48 are formed in the valve outer wall portion M61 and the cylinder portion M11, and seals a predetermined gap between the valve M60 and the eight openings M41 to M48. Figure 46 As shown in FIG. 1 , the sealing member M70 is configured to cover all eight openings M41 to M48. Figure 47 and Figure 48 As shown, a plurality of through holes M71 are formed in the sealing member M70 to allow the fluid flowing through the eight openings M41 to M48 to pass therethrough.

[0426] like Figure 47 As shown, the sealing member M70 is formed into a substantially fan-shaped plate shape before being installed between the valve outer wall portion M61 and the cylinder portion M11. Figure 46 As shown in FIG. 1 , the sealing member M70 is arranged in such a manner that the plate thickness direction becomes the radial direction DRr. Furthermore, when the sealing member M70 is arranged between the valve outer wall portion M61 and the cylinder portion M11, as shown in FIG. Figure 46 and Figure 48 As shown, the plate surface of the sealing member M70 is bent and arranged so that the arc portion extends along the circumferential direction DRc and is arranged along the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylindrical portion M11. In this way, the plate surface of the sealing member M70 is flat before installation and becomes curved in the circumferential direction DRc after installation.

[0427] The sealing member M70 is disposed between two circumferential seal restraining portions M112, and is supported on one and the other sides in the circumferential direction DRc by the circumferential seal restraining portions M112. Furthermore, the sealing member M70 is embedded in and supported by the circumferential seal restraining portion M112 formed in the bottom portion M12 on its second axial direction DRa2.

[0428] Furthermore, the sealing component M70 includes a sliding portion M72 positioned on the valve outer wall portion M61 side when disposed between the valve outer wall portion M61 and the barrel portion M11, and a pressing portion M73 positioned on the barrel portion M11 side. Specifically, the sealing component M70 is constructed by stacking the sliding portion M72 and the pressing portion M73 in the thickness direction. Furthermore, the sliding portion M72 and the pressing portion M73 are formed from different materials.

[0429] Specifically, the sliding portion M72 of the sealing member M70 is formed of a high-sliding member with a low friction coefficient, such as PTFE or fluororesin, while the pressing portion M73 is formed of an elastic member such as a rubber member.

[0430] The sealing member M70 is formed, for example, by applying a sliding portion M72 made of PTFE, fluororesin, or the like to the surface of a pressing portion M73 made of an elastic member such as a rubber member. Alternatively, the sealing member M70 can be formed by integrally assembling the sliding portion M72 made of PTFE, fluororesin, or the like with the pressing portion M73 made of an elastic member such as a rubber member, or by bonding them using an adhesive or sintering them.

[0431] Thus, when the sealing component M70 is disposed between the valve outer wall portion M61 and the barrel portion M11, the pressing portion M73 can be deformed to match the shape of the barrel portion M11, making it easier to fit. Therefore, the assemblability of the sealing component M70 can be improved, and the gap between the valve M60 and the sealing component M70, as well as the gap between the housing M10 and the sealing component M70, can be reduced. Therefore, the flow of fluid in the gap between the valve M60 and the sealing component M70, as well as the gap between the housing M10 and the sealing component M70, can be suppressed.

[0432] Furthermore, by setting the sliding portion M72 positioned on the valve outer wall portion M61 side to a high sliding member with a low friction coefficient such as PTFE or fluororesin, the sliding resistance between the valve M60 and the sealing member M70 can be reduced.

[0433] The seal member M70 of this embodiment is larger in the circumferential direction DRc than the eight openings M41 to M48 formed in the cylindrical portion M11. Furthermore, the seal member M70 is provided with a plurality of through-holes M71 extending throughout the entire axial direction DRa and the entire circumferential direction DRc, extending through the seal member M70 in the plate thickness direction. These through-holes M71 are arranged in a grid pattern. The through-holes M71 are arranged in four stages in the axial direction DRa and in four rows in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0434] These through-holes M71, four each arranged in the axial direction DRa and the circumferential direction DRc, have a trapezoidal opening shape corresponding to the eight openings M41 to M48. The trapezoidal shape of these through-holes M71 is smaller in the circumferential direction DRc on the side facing the second axial direction DRa2 than on the side facing the first axial direction DRa1. In other words, the opening shape of the through-holes M71 corresponds to the first through tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j, specifically, to the subdivisions that form the first through tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j.

[0435] The through-holes M71 in the two central rows of the four rows of through-holes M71 arranged in the circumferential direction DRc are formed at positions facing the eight openings M41 to M48. The through-holes M71 in the two central rows allow the fluid flowing through the eight openings M41 to M48 to pass through.

[0436] In contrast, of the four rows of through-holes M71 arranged in the circumferential direction DRc, the through-hole group M71 in the row formed at the end portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the through-hole group M71 in the row formed at the end portion on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side are formed at positions that do not oppose the eight openings M41 to M48. In other words, the through-hole group M71 in the row formed at the end portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the through-hole group M71 in the row formed at the end portion on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side are formed on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side relative to the eight openings M41 to M48.

[0437] Furthermore, the portion of the seal member M70 where the two central rows of through-holes M71 are formed surrounds the eight openings M41 to M48 , and suppresses mixing of the fluids passing through the eight openings M41 to M48 .

[0438] Furthermore, a row of through-holes M71 formed at the end of the sealing member M70 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and a row of through-holes M71 formed at the end on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side surround the fluid passages that do not face the eight openings M41 to M48. Thus, the row of through-holes M71 formed at the end of the sealing member M70 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side seal the fluid passages from the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j that do not face the eight openings M41 to M48. In this case, the sealing member M70 prevents mixing of the fluids flowing in the fluid passages from the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j that do not face the eight openings M41 to M48.

[0439] Here, the number of columns of the eight opening portions M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc is set as the number of opening columns, and the number of columns of the through holes M71 arranged in four rows in the circumferential direction DRc is set as the number of through hole columns. In the present embodiment, the number of opening columns is set to two columns. Moreover, the number of through hole columns is set to four columns. That is, in the present embodiment, the number of through hole columns is set to two more columns than the number of opening columns. Specifically, the through holes M71 are provided in one row more than the eight opening portions M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc on one side and the other side of the circumferential direction DRc. Thus, the sealing component M70 has a group of through holes M71 in a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and a group of through holes M71 in a row on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side formed at a position not opposite to the eight opening portions M41 to M48 in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0440] Reference Figure 49 and Figure 50 The reason for setting the number of through-hole rows to be greater than the number of opening rows is explained below. Figure 49 The front view of the valve M60 is shown when the valve M60 is positioned at a position where a portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i faces the first-stage opening, and the sixth closing portion M65f and the tenth fluid passage M64j face the second-row opening. Figure 49 The dotted line in FIG. 5 represents a range of the valve outer wall portion M61 covered by the eight openings M41 to M48 .

[0441] As described above, the ninth fluid passage M64i can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Therefore, if the second circumferential direction DRc2 side of the ninth fluid passage M64i is positioned opposite the first row of openings, its first circumferential direction DRc1 side does not oppose the eight openings M41 to M48. Thus, the ninth fluid passage M64i connects the non-adjacent first fluid inlet M42 and second fluid inlet M44 via a portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side that does not oppose the eight openings M41 to M48. Consequently, the fluid flowing into the valve M60 from the second fluid inlet M44 flows toward the first fluid outlet M41 via the portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side. In other words, the fluid flowing into the valve M60 from the second fluid inlet M44 bypasses the position opposing the eight openings M41 to flow toward the first fluid outlet M41.

[0442] Here, it is assumed that the number of through-hole rows is set to the same as the number of opening rows. In this case, when the fluid flowing into the valve M60 from the second fluid inlet portion M44 flows into the portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, it may leak from the gap between the outer peripheral surface M611 of the valve outer wall portion M61 and the inner peripheral surface M16 of the cylindrical portion M11.

[0443] In contrast, in this embodiment, the number of through-hole rows is set to be two more than the number of opening rows. Furthermore, the seal member M70 has a portion in the circumferential direction DRc that is not opposite the eight openings M41 to M48, forming a row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and a row of through-holes M71 on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side.

[0444] Therefore, even when the sealing member M70 is positioned in a position on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side of the ninth fluid passage M64i that is not opposed to the eight openings M41 to M48, the portion forming the row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side surrounds the non-opposing portion. Therefore, when fluid flowing into the valve M60 from the second fluid inlet M44 flows into the portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side of the ninth fluid passage M64i, leakage of the fluid from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall portion M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel portion M11 can be suppressed.

[0445] return Figure 38 A biasing member M80 is provided between the valve M60 on the first axial direction DRa1 side and the housing cover M20 on the second axial direction DRa2 side. The biasing member M80 is a component that presses the valve M60 toward the second axial direction DRa2 and is comprised of, for example, a compression coil spring. The compression coil spring is provided in a compressed state between the valve M60 and the housing cover M20, and the force generated by the compression presses the valve M60 toward the second axial direction DRa2.

[0446] As described above, the internal angle θ formed between the cone-shaped generatrix parallel to the valve outer wall portion M61 and the axis CL is set to be greater than 5 degrees. Therefore, the force applied by the force-applying portion M80 acts as a component of the force pressing the valve M60 and the sealing member M70, and also as a component of the force pressing the sealing member M70 and the barrel portion M11. Therefore, by adjusting the force applied by the force-applying portion M80, the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall portion M61 and the sealing member M70 can be maintained in sliding contact, and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel portion M11 and the sealing member M70 can be maintained in contact during rotation and when the valve M60 is stopped.

[0447] A spring guide M81 is provided between the valve M60 on the first axial direction DRa1 side and the housing cover M20 on the second axial direction DRa2 side. The spring guide M81 supports a biasing portion M80 comprised of a compression coil spring. The spring guide M81 includes a cylindrical portion M811 disposed inside the biasing portion M80 and a thin, disc-shaped disk portion M812 connected to the cylindrical portion M811 on the second axial direction DRa2 side.

[0448] The cylindrical portion M811 extends along the axial direction DRa and is supported internally by the housing cover M20. The disc portion M812 is placed on the first axial direction DRa1 side of the valve M60 and supported by the valve M60. The disc portion M812 supports the biasing portion M80 on the second axial direction DRa2 side.

[0449] The spring guide M81 configured in this manner can suppress positional deviation of the urging portion M80 in the radial direction DRr and can transmit the urging force of the urging portion M80 to the valve M60 .

[0450] Moreover, in each structure of the above-mentioned fluid control valve M1, the housing cover M20, the cover seal M23, the valve M60, the sealing component M70, and the force-applying portion M80 are configured to be loadable and unloadable from the first axial direction DRa1 side relative to the housing M10. Therefore, as a manufacturing method of the fluid control valve M1, the following steps can be adopted. First, the sealing component M70 is assembled to the housing M10. Then, the valve M60 is assembled to the housing M10. Next, the spring guide M81 and the force-applying portion M80 are configured, and the housing cover M20 provided with the cover seal M23 is assembled to the housing M10. Finally, the drive portion M30 is assembled to the housing cover M20 to complete the assembly of the fluid control valve M1.

[0451] Next, refer to Figure 45To illustrate the action of the fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment. The fluid control valve M1 can make the fluid flow into the valve accommodating space AS from any one or more of the first fluid inlet portion M42 to the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 by adjusting the rotational position of the valve M60. Moreover, the fluid control valve M1 can make the fluid flowing into the valve accommodating space AS flow out from any one or more of the first fluid outlet portion M41 to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48. That is, the fluid control valve M1 switches the flow path inlet portion opposite to the first fluid path M64a to the tenth fluid path M64j by rotating the valve M60 around the axis CL, thereby switching the fluid outlet portion for causing the fluid to flow out. Thus, the fluid control valve M1 switches the operating mode. The fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment is configured to switch the operating mode by switching the rotational position of the valve M60 to the reference position. Figure 45 The ten rotational positions described above can switch the operating mode to ten switching patterns.

[0452] Here, in Figure 45 In the illustrated rotational positions of the valve M60, the position where the first fluid passage M64a faces the first row of openings is set as the first valve position, and the position where the fourth fluid passage M64d faces the first row of openings is set as the second valve position. Furthermore, the position where the fifth fluid passage M64e faces the first row of openings is set as the third valve position, the position where the sixth fluid passage M64f faces the first row of openings is set as the fourth valve position, and the position where the first blocking portion M65a faces the first row of openings is set as the fifth valve position. Furthermore, the position where the eighth fluid passage M64h faces the second row of openings is set as the sixth valve position, the position where the eighth fluid passage M64h faces the first row of openings is set as the seventh valve position, and the position where the fifth blocking portion M65e faces the second row of openings is set as the eighth valve position. Furthermore, the position where the tenth fluid passage M64j faces the second row of openings is set as the ninth valve position, and the position where the tenth fluid passage M64j faces the first row of openings is set as the tenth valve position.

[0453] When the valve M60 is positioned in the first valve position, the upstream side of the first fluid passage M64a communicates with the first fluid inlet M42, and the downstream side communicates with the first fluid outlet M41. Furthermore, the upstream side of the second fluid passage M64b communicates with the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side communicates with the second fluid outlet M43. Furthermore, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c communicates with the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side communicates with the third fluid outlet M46. The upstream side of the fourth fluid passage M64d communicates with the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side communicates with the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0454] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 is guided to the first fluid outlet M41 via the first fluid passage M64a and flows outside the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 is guided to the second fluid outlet M43 via the second fluid passage M64b and flows outside the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is guided to the third fluid outlet M46 via the third fluid passage M64c and flows outside the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is guided to the fourth fluid outlet M48 via the fourth fluid passage M64d and flows outside the fluid control valve M1.

[0455] In this case, the first fluid passage M64a, the second fluid passage M64b, the third fluid passage M64c and the fourth fluid passage M64d respectively function as first flow path portions that guide the fluid flowing in from any one of the first fluid inlet portion M42 to the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 to any one of the first fluid outlet portion M41 to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 to which they are connected.

[0456] When the valve M60 is positioned in the second valve position, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c communicates with the first fluid inlet M42 and the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side communicates with the first fluid outlet M41. The upstream side of the fourth fluid passage M64d communicates with the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side communicates with the second fluid outlet M43. Furthermore, the upstream side of the fifth fluid passage M64e communicates with the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side communicates with the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0457] As a result, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the third fluid inlet M45 merge in the third fluid passage M64c and is guided to the first fluid outlet M41, flowing outside the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 is guided to the second fluid outlet M43 via the fourth fluid passage M64d, flowing outside the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is divided in the fifth fluid passage M64e and guided to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, flowing outside the fluid control valve M1.

[0458] In this case, the third fluid passage M64c functions as a third flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from two of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any one of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which it is connected. The fourth fluid passage M64d functions as a first flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from any one of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any one of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which it is connected. The fifth fluid passage M64e functions as a second flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from any one of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which it is connected. The second valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotational position in which fluid flows through the fourth fluid passage M64d, which functions as the first flow path portion, and corresponds to an example of a third rotational position in which fluid flows through the third fluid passage M64c, which functions as the third flow path portion. Furthermore, the second valve position corresponds to an example of a second rotational position in which fluid flows through the fifth fluid passage M64e, which functions as the second flow path portion.

[0459] When the valve M60 is positioned in the third valve position, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c communicates with the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side communicates with the first fluid outlet M41. The upstream side of the fifth fluid passage M64e communicates with the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side communicates with the second fluid outlet M43. Furthermore, the upstream side of the sixth fluid passage M64f communicates with the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side communicates with the third fluid outlet M46. Furthermore, the first sealing portion M65a seals the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0460] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is guided to the first fluid outlet M41 via the third fluid passage M64c, flowing outside the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 merge in the fifth fluid passage M64e and is guided to the second fluid outlet M43, flowing outside the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is guided to the third fluid outlet M46 via the sixth fluid passage M64f, flowing outside the fluid control valve M1. However, the fourth fluid outlet M48 is sealed by the first sealing portion M65a and is not connected to any of the first to fourth fluid inlets M42 to M47, thus preventing fluid from flowing out.

[0461] In this case, the third fluid passage M64c and the sixth fluid passage M64f function as a first flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from one of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any one of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which they are connected. The fifth fluid passage M64e functions as a second flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from any one of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which they are connected. Furthermore, the third valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotational position that allows fluid to flow through the third fluid passage M64c and the sixth fluid passage M64f, which function as the first flow path portion, and corresponds to an example of a second rotational position that allows fluid to flow through the fifth fluid passage M64e, which functions as the second flow path portion.

[0462] Here, when the valve M60 is positioned in the third valve position, the one row of the third fluid passage M64c on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side does not face the eight openings M41 to M48, and the two rows on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side do not face the eight openings M41 to M48. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 flows into the portion of the third fluid passage M64c forming the one row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the two rows on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side.

[0463] However, the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that forms a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side is surrounded by the portion of the seal member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side. Therefore, the fluid flowing into the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that forms a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side can be suppressed from leaking from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall portion M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel portion M11.

[0464] In contrast, the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that is closest to the second circumferential direction DRc2, of the two rows of portions forming the second circumferential direction DRc2, is not surrounded by the portion of the seal member M70 that forms the row of through-holes M71 on the second circumferential direction DRc2. Therefore, fluid flowing into the two rows of portions of the third fluid passage M64c that form the second circumferential direction DRc2 may flow toward the back side of the valve M60 through the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall portion M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel portion M11.

[0465] However, even if fluid were to flow into the back side of the valve M60, the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that forms a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side is surrounded by the portion of the seal member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side. Furthermore, the fourth fluid passage M64d is surrounded by the portion of the seal member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side. Therefore, fluid flowing into the back side of the valve M60 is prevented from flowing into the third and fourth fluid passages M64c and M64d.

[0466] When the valve M60 is positioned in the fourth valve position, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c communicates with the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side communicates with the first fluid outlet M41. The upstream side of the sixth fluid passage M64f communicates with the first fluid inlet M42, and the downstream side communicates with the second fluid outlet M43. Furthermore, the upstream side of the seventh fluid passage M64g communicates with the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side communicates with the fourth fluid outlet M48. Furthermore, the first sealing portion M65a seals the second fluid inlet M44. The second sealing portion M65b seals the third fluid outlet M46.

[0467] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet portion M45 is guided to the first fluid outlet portion M41 via the third fluid passage M64c, and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet portion M42 is guided to the second fluid outlet portion M43 via the sixth fluid passage M64f, and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 is guided to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 via the seventh fluid passage M64g, and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. However, since the second fluid inlet portion M44 is closed by the first closing portion M65a, the fluid will not flow into the valve accommodating space AS. Furthermore, the third fluid outlet portion M46 is closed by the second closing portion M65b and is not connected to any of the first fluid inlet portion M42 to the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, and therefore, the fluid will not flow out.

[0468] In this case, the third fluid passage M64c, the sixth fluid passage M64f, and the seventh fluid passage M64g function as a first flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from one of the first fluid inlet portion M42 to the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 to any of the first fluid outlet portion M41 to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48 to which they are connected. Furthermore, the fourth valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotational position in which fluid flows through the third fluid passage M64c, the sixth fluid passage M64f, and the seventh fluid passage M64g, each functioning as a first flow path portion.

[0469] Here, when the valve M60 is positioned in the fourth valve position, the two rows of the third fluid passage M64c on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side do not face the eight openings M41 to M48, and the one row on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side does not face the eight openings M41 to M48. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 flows into the portion of the third fluid passage M64c forming the two rows on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the portion forming the one row on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side.

[0470] However, the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that forms a row on the side in the second circumferential direction DRc2 is surrounded by the portion of the seal member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the side in the second circumferential direction DRc2. Therefore, the fluid flowing into the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that forms a row on the side in the second circumferential direction DRc2 can be suppressed from leaking from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall portion M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel portion M11.

[0471] In contrast, the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that is closest to the first circumferential direction DRc1, of the two rows of portions forming the first circumferential direction DRc1, is not surrounded by the portion of the seal member M70 that forms the row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1. Therefore, fluid flowing into the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that forms the row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 may flow toward the back side of the valve M60 through the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall portion M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel portion M11.

[0472] However, even if fluid were to flow into the back side of the valve M60, the portion of the third fluid passage M64c that forms a row on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side is surrounded by the portion of the sealing member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side. Furthermore, the seventh fluid passage M64g is surrounded by the portion of the sealing member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side. Furthermore, the third and fourth sealing portions M65c and M65d are surrounded by the portion of the sealing member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side. Therefore, fluid flowing into the back side of the valve M60 can be prevented from flowing into the third and seventh fluid passages M64c and M64g.

[0473] When the valve M60 is positioned in the fifth valve position, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c communicates with the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side communicates with the first fluid outlet M41. The upstream side of the seventh fluid passage M64g communicates with the second fluid inlet M44 and the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side communicates with the second fluid outlet M43. Furthermore, the second sealing portion M65b seals the first fluid inlet M42. The third sealing portion M65c seals the third fluid outlet M46. The fourth sealing portion M65d seals the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0474] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is guided to the first fluid outlet M41 via the third fluid passage M64c, flowing to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 and the fourth fluid inlet M47 merge in the seventh fluid passage M64g and is guided to the second fluid outlet M43, flowing to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. However, since the first fluid inlet M42 is sealed by the second sealing portion M65b, the fluid cannot flow into the valve accommodating space AS. Furthermore, the third fluid outlet M46 is sealed by the third sealing portion M65c and is not connected to any of the first to fourth fluid inlets M42 to M47, thus preventing the fluid from flowing out. Furthermore, the fourth fluid outlet M48 is sealed by the fourth sealing portion M65d and is not connected to any of the first to fourth fluid inlets M42 to M47, thus preventing the fluid from flowing out.

[0475] In this case, the third fluid passage M64c functions as a first flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from one of the first and fourth fluid inlet portions M42, M47 to any of the first and fourth fluid outlet portions M41, M48 to which it is connected. The seventh fluid passage M64g functions as a third flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from two of the first and fourth fluid inlet portions M42, M47 to any of the first and fourth fluid outlet portions M41, M48 to which it is connected. Furthermore, the fifth valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotational position that allows fluid to flow through the third fluid passage M64c, which functions as the first flow path portion, and an example of a third rotational position that allows fluid to flow through the seventh fluid passage M64g, which functions as the third flow path portion.

[0476] When the valve M60 is positioned in the sixth valve position, the eighth fluid passage M64h communicates with the third fluid inlet M45 and the fourth fluid inlet M47 on its upstream side, and with the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 on its downstream side. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M64c blocks the first fluid outlet M41. The third blocking portion M65c blocks the first fluid inlet M42. The seventh fluid passage M64g blocks the second fluid outlet M43. The fourth blocking portion M65d blocks the second fluid inlet M44.

[0477] As a result, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 and the fourth fluid inlet M47 merges in the eighth fluid passage M64h, is divided, and is directed to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, flowing out of the fluid control valve M1. However, the first fluid outlet M41 is blocked by the third fluid passage M64c and is not connected to any of the first to fourth fluid inlets M42, M47, thereby preventing fluid from flowing out. Since the first fluid inlet M42 is blocked by the third blocking portion M65c, fluid cannot flow into the valve receiving space AS. The second fluid outlet M43 is blocked by the seventh fluid passage M64g and is not connected to any of the first to fourth fluid inlets M42, M47, thereby preventing fluid from flowing out. Since the second fluid inlet M44 is blocked by the fourth blocking portion M65d, fluid cannot flow into the valve receiving space AS.

[0478] In this case, the eighth fluid passage M64h functions as a fourth flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from two of the first fluid inlet M42 and the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two of the first fluid outlet M41 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which it communicates. Furthermore, the sixth valve position corresponds to an example of a fourth rotational position that allows fluid to flow through the eighth fluid passage M64h, which functions as the fourth flow path portion.

[0479] When the valve M60 is positioned in the seventh valve position, the upstream side of the eighth fluid passage M64h communicates with the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side communicates with the first fluid outlet M41 and the second fluid outlet M43. Furthermore, the upstream side of the ninth fluid passage M64i communicates with the third fluid inlet M45 and the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side communicates with the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0480] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 merges in the eighth fluid passage M64h, is divided, and is guided to the first fluid outlet M41 and the second fluid outlet M43, thereby flowing outside the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 and the fourth fluid inlet M47 merges in the ninth fluid passage M64i, is divided, and is guided to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, thereby flowing outside the fluid control valve M1.

[0481] In this case, the eighth fluid passage M64h and the ninth fluid passage M64i function as a fourth flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from two of the first fluid inlet M42 and the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two of the first fluid outlet M41 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which they are connected. Furthermore, the seventh valve position corresponds to an example of a fourth rotational position that allows fluid to flow through the eighth fluid passage M64h and the ninth fluid passage M64i, which function as the fourth flow path portion.

[0482] When the valve M60 is positioned in the eighth valve position, the upstream side of the ninth fluid passage M64i communicates with the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the third fluid inlet M45. Furthermore, in this case, the downstream side of the ninth fluid passage M64i communicates with the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48. Furthermore, the fifth sealing portion M65e seals the fourth fluid inlet M47.

[0483] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the third fluid inlet M45 merges in the ninth fluid passage M64i, is divided, and is guided to the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, thereby flowing out of the fluid control valve M1. However, since the fourth fluid inlet M47 is sealed by the fifth sealing portion M65e, the fluid is prevented from flowing into the valve accommodating space AS.

[0484] In this case, the ninth fluid passage M64i functions as a fourth flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from three of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to all four of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 with which it communicates. Furthermore, the eighth valve position corresponds to an example of a fourth rotational position that allows fluid to flow through the ninth fluid passage M64i, which functions as the fourth flow path portion.

[0485] When the valve M60 is positioned in the ninth valve position, the ninth fluid passage M64i communicates upstream with the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, and downstream with the first fluid outlet M41. At this point, the second fluid inlet M44 and the first fluid outlet M41 communicate via a portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i that is located on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, not facing any of the eight openings M41 to M48. Specifically, the ninth fluid passage M64i connects the non-adjacent second fluid inlet M44 and the first fluid outlet M41 at the first row of openings located at the end portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, among the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, when the valve M60 is positioned in the ninth valve position, the tenth fluid passage M64j communicates upstream with the fourth fluid inlet M47, and downstream with the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48. Furthermore, the fifth sealing portion M65e seals the second fluid outlet portion M43, and the sixth sealing portion M65f seals the third fluid inlet portion M45.

[0486] As a result, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 merges in the ninth fluid passage M64i, is divided, and is directed to the first fluid outlet M41, flowing out of the fluid control valve M1. At this time, the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 bypasses the portion of the valve outer wall M61 that faces the eight openings M41 to M48, and is directed to the first fluid outlet M41.

[0487] Specifically, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 flows into the ninth fluid passage M64i on the second axial direction DRa2 side, then flows toward a portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i connected in the circumferential direction DRc on the first axial direction DRa1 side. Furthermore, the fluid flows toward the first axial direction DRa1 side at the portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, then flows toward the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and finally flows toward the first fluid outlet M41.

[0488] Thus, the fluid flowing from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 into the ninth fluid passage M64i hardly flows in the radial direction DRr in the ninth fluid passage M64i but flows in the circumferential direction DRc and the axial direction DRa.

[0489] Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is divided by the tenth fluid passage M64j and directed to the third and fourth fluid outlets M46, M48, flowing out of the fluid control valve M1. However, the second fluid outlet M43 is sealed by the fifth sealing portion M65e and is not connected to any of the first through fourth fluid inlets M42, M47, preventing fluid from flowing out. Furthermore, since the third fluid inlet M45 is sealed by the sixth sealing portion M65f, fluid is prevented from flowing into the valve accommodation space AS.

[0490] Here, when fluid flowing from the second fluid inlet M44 flows toward the first fluid outlet M41, it bypasses the portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i that faces the eight openings M41 to M48 of the valve outer wall M61. Furthermore, the portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i that bypasses the portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i that faces the eight openings M41 to M48, i.e., the portion forming a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, is surrounded by the portion of the sealing member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side. Therefore, fluid flowing into the portion of the ninth fluid passage M64i that forms a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side can be prevented from leaking from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel M11.

[0491] In this case, the ninth fluid passage M64i functions as a bypass flow path portion that allows fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44, located at the end portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, to bypass the portion of the valve outer wall portion M61 that faces the eight openings M41 to M48 and be directed to the first fluid outlet M41. Specifically, the ninth fluid passage M64i on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side faces the eight openings M41 to M48 and functions as an opposing flow path portion that directly guides fluid flowing in from the first and second fluid inlets M42 and M44 to the first fluid outlet M41. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side functions as a bypass flow path portion that allows fluid flowing in from the first and second fluid inlets M42 and M44 to bypass the portion of the valve outer wall portion M61 that faces the eight openings M41 to M48 and be directed to the first fluid outlet M41.

[0492] Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i is provided at the end portion in the first circumferential direction DRc1, connecting the non-adjacent second fluid inlet M44 with the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i is formed to have the same size as the eight openings M41 to M48 in the circumferential direction DRc, and when positioned opposite these eight openings M41 to M48, it also functions as the fourth flow path as described above. The tenth fluid passage M64j functions as a second flow path, guiding fluid flowing from any of the first to fourth fluid inlet M42 to M47 to any two of the first to fourth fluid outlets M41 to M48 with which it is connected.

[0493] Moreover, the ninth valve position corresponds to an example of a fourth rotational position for causing fluid to flow through the ninth fluid passage M64i functioning as the fourth flow path portion, and corresponds to an example of a second rotational position for causing fluid to flow through the tenth fluid passage M64j functioning as the second flow path portion.

[0494] When the valve M60 is positioned in the tenth valve position, the upstream side of the tenth fluid passage M64j communicates with the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side communicates with the second fluid outlet M43. The upstream side of the first fluid passage M64a communicates with the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side communicates with the third fluid outlet M46. Furthermore, the upstream side of the second fluid passage M64b communicates with the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side communicates with the fourth fluid outlet M48. The sixth sealing portion M65f seals the first fluid outlet M41.

[0495] As a result, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 merges in the tenth fluid passage M64j and is guided to the second fluid outlet M43, flowing out of the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is guided via the first fluid passage M64a to the third fluid outlet M46, flowing out of the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is guided via the second fluid passage M64b to the fourth fluid outlet M48, flowing out of the fluid control valve M1.

[0496] In this case, the first fluid passage M64a and the second fluid passage M64b each function as a first flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from any of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which they are connected. The tenth fluid passage M64j functions as a third flow path portion that guides fluid flowing in from both of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 to which they are connected. Furthermore, the tenth valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotational position in which fluid flows through the first fluid passage M64a and the second fluid passage M64b, which function as the first flow path portion, and corresponds to an example of a third rotational position in which fluid flows through the tenth fluid passage M64j, which functions as the third flow path portion.

[0497] In this manner, by switching the valve M60 between the first valve position and the tenth valve position, the operating mode switching pattern is switched to any one of ten. Furthermore, in each switching pattern, the fluid inlet portion through which the fluid flows in can be switched from the first fluid inlet portion M42 to the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, and the fluid outlet portion through which the fluid flows out can be switched from the first fluid outlet portion M41 to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48.

[0498] As described above, the fluid control valve M1 of this embodiment has a seal member M70 with a plurality of through holes M71 arranged in the axial direction DRa and in a plurality of rows in the circumferential direction DRc. The number of through hole rows is set to be greater than the number of opening rows.

[0499] Thus, when the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i are positioned at the opening portion of the end portion across the circumferential direction DRc, the sealing component M70 surrounds these third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i.

[0500] Therefore, even if the third, seventh, and ninth fluid passages M64c, M64g, and M64i are positioned so as to straddle the opening at the end of the circumferential direction DRc, the fluid flowing through these fluid passages can be prevented from flowing between the valve outer wall M61 and the barrel portion M11. Furthermore, the fluid flowing through these third, seventh, and ninth fluid passages M64c, M64g, and M64i can be prevented from circumventing the back side of the valve M60. Therefore, it is unnecessary to adjust the rotational position of the valve M60 so that the third, seventh, and ninth fluid passages M64c, M64g, and M64i do not straddle the opening formed at the end of the circumferential direction DRc. In other words, it is possible to prevent the fluid from flowing toward the back side of the valve M60 without restricting the switching pattern of the fluid control valve M1, which is switched by adjusting the rotational position of the valve M60.

[0501] Furthermore, according to the fourteenth embodiment described above, the following effects can be obtained.

[0502] (1) In the fourteenth embodiment, the number of through-hole rows is set to be two more than the number of opening rows. The through-holes M71 are provided on one side and the other side of the circumferential direction DRc by one more row than the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0503] Therefore, no matter whether the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i are positioned at the opening position across the end on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the end on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, they can be prevented from winding around the back side of the valve M60.

[0504] (2) In the fourteenth embodiment, the eight openings M41 to M48 are formed in a lattice pattern, with a first fluid outlet M41, a first fluid inlet M42, and a second fluid inlet M44 at the end portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1. A ninth fluid passage M64i is formed in the valve outer wall portion M61. This ninth fluid passage M64i guides fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 to the first fluid outlet M41, bypassing portions of the valve outer wall portion M61 that face the eight openings M41 to M48. The sealing member M70 surrounds the ninth fluid passage M64i at a position that does not face the eight openings M41 to M48 in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0505] This allows a flow path to be formed in the ninth fluid passage M64i, which is positioned neither opposite nor directly connected to the eight openings M41 to M48. In other words, the location of fluid flow in the valve outer wall M61 is not limited to the location opposite the eight openings M41 to M48, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in fluid flow patterns. Consequently, it is possible to increase the number of switching options when switching between the first to fourth fluid outlets M41 to M48, which are connected to the first to fourth fluid inlet M42 to M47, respectively.

[0506] (3) In the fourteenth embodiment, the ninth fluid passage M64i allows the second fluid inlet portion M44 and the first fluid outlet portion M41, which are not adjacent to each other, to communicate with each other.

[0507] Thus, the openings connected by the ninth fluid passage M64i among the eight openings M41 to M48 are not limited to mutually opposing openings, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in the fluid flow pattern. Consequently, it is possible to increase the number of switching options when switching between the first to fourth fluid outlets M41 to M48, which are connected to the first to fourth fluid inlet M42 to M47, respectively.

[0508] (4) In the fourteenth embodiment, when the flow path sections of each row are set as one unit of flow path section, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j form ten units on the valve outer wall portion M61.

[0509] Thus, even if the valve M60 is rotated for every two rows so that all the portions facing the eight openings M41 to M48 are changed, five switching patterns can be ensured.

[0510] (5) In the fourteenth embodiment, the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc so that the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j facing the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc change for each row.

[0511] Thus, by the rotation of the valve M60 , portions facing the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc are changed row by row, thereby ensuring ten switching patterns.

[0512] (6) In the fourteenth embodiment, the sealing member M70 includes the sliding portion M72 facing the valve outer wall portion M61 and the pressing portion M73 facing the cylindrical portion M11. The sliding portion M72 and the pressing portion M73 are made of different materials.

[0513] Thus, among the properties required for the sealing member M70 , it is possible to select materials corresponding to the properties required for the cylindrical portion M11 side requiring elasticity and the valve outer wall portion M61 side requiring slidability.

[0514] (7) In the fourteenth embodiment, a force-applying portion M80 is provided for applying force to the valve M60 in the second axial direction DRa2. The valve outer wall portion M61 is formed in a conical side surface with the apex side along the second axial direction DRa2. The force-applying portion M80 applies force to the valve M60 toward the apex side of the cone, maintaining the valve outer wall portion M61 and the sealing member M70 pressed against each other during rotation and when the valve M60 stops, and also maintaining the cylindrical portion M11 and the sealing member M70 pressed against each other.

[0515] Thus, the force component pressing the valve M60 and the sealing member M70 and the force component pressing the housing M10 and the sealing member M70 can be easily adjusted. Therefore, the gap between the valve M60 and the sealing member M70 and the gap between the housing M10 and the sealing member M70 can be reduced, thereby ensuring the sealing between the valve M60 and the sealing member M70 and between the housing M10 and the sealing member M70.

[0516] Furthermore, the valve outer wall portion M61 is configured to conform to the side surface of a cone, and the force-applying portion M80 applies force to the valve M60 toward the apex of the cone. This ensures that even if the sliding surfaces of the valve M60 and the sealing member M70 wear due to aging, the two components remain in sliding contact. Consequently, the fluid control valve M1 maintains the sealing performance between the valve M60 and the sealing member M70 despite aging.

[0517] (8) In the fourteenth embodiment, the inner angle θ formed between the generatrix of the cone parallel to the valve outer wall portion M61 and the axis CL is 5 degrees or more.

[0518] Thus, the component of the force applied by the force-applying portion M80 in the second axial direction DRa2, i.e., the component of the force acting from the valve outer wall portion M61 on the sealing member M70 and the barrel portion M11, can easily ensure a sliding contact state between the valve outer wall portion M61 and the sealing member M70. In addition, the contact state between the barrel portion M11 and the sealing member M70 can be maintained, thereby ensuring the sealing performance between the barrel portion M11 and the sealing member M70.

[0519] (9) In the fourteenth embodiment, the inner peripheral surface M16 forming the valve accommodating space AS in the cylindrical portion M11 has a shape that follows the side surface of a cone similar to the valve outer wall portion M61.

[0520] Thus, the component of the force applied by the force-applying portion M80 in the second axial direction DRa2, i.e., the component of the force acting from the valve outer wall portion M61 on the sealing component M70 and the cylinder portion M11, can maintain the contact state between the cylinder portion M11 and the sealing component M70, thereby ensuring sealing performance.

[0521] (10) In the fourteenth embodiment, the rotation axis M62 of the valve M60 protrudes toward the first axial direction DRa1 side. The valve M60, the cover seal M23, and the housing cover M20 are attachable to and detachable from the housing M10 from the first axial direction DRa1 side.

[0522] Assume that, contrary to the configuration of the fourteenth embodiment, the rotational axis M62 protrudes toward the second axial direction DRa2, and an axial hole M22 and a cover seal M23 are provided in the bottom M12 of the housing M10. In this case, during the manufacture of the fluid control valve M1, when assembling the valve M60 into the housing M10, care must be taken to avoid contact between the rotational axis M62 and the cover seal M23, thereby damaging the cover seal M23. This presents a difficult assembly problem. Specifically, the valve M60 must be assembled into the housing M10 while maintaining alignment between the central axis of the housing M10 and the central axis of the valve M60 throughout the entire assembly process.

[0523] In contrast, in the fourteenth embodiment, the rotational shaft M62 protrudes toward the first axial direction DRa1, and a cover seal M23 is provided in the shaft hole M22 of the housing cover M20. Therefore, when manufacturing the fluid control valve M1 and assembling the valve M60 to the housing M10, the possibility of contact between the rotational shaft M62 and the cover seal M23 can be reduced, thereby facilitating assembly.

[0524] (11) In the fourteenth embodiment, the housing cover M20 is fixed to the housing M10 by snap fitting.

[0525] Thus, compared with the case where fastening members such as screws are used, the number of parts required for assembling and fixing the case cover M20 to the case M10 can be reduced.

[0526] (12) In the fourteenth embodiment, the valve M60 includes the stopper M63 for restricting the rotation of the valve M60. The stopper M63 is provided at a position different from the position facing the housing cover M20.

[0527] If the stopper M63 is provided on the housing cover M20, the load when restricting the rotation of the valve M60 is applied to the portion where the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10 via the housing cover M20. This could damage the portion where the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10. In contrast, according to the fourteenth embodiment, the load when restricting the rotation of the valve M60 is prevented from being applied to the portion where the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10 via the housing cover M20. Therefore, damage to the portion where the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10 can be avoided.

[0528] (13) In the fourteenth embodiment, the housing M10 includes a bottom portion M12 on the second axial direction DRa2 side that closes the housing M10 on the second axial direction DRa2 side. The stopper M63 protrudes toward the bottom portion M12. The bottom portion M12 includes a rotation restricting portion M122 that restricts the rotation of the valve M60 by abutting against the stopper M63.

[0529] Thus, compared with the case where the rotation restricting portion M122 is formed on the inner peripheral surface M16 of the sealing member M70 provided in the housing M10, the sealing surface between the valve outer wall portion M61 and the cylindrical portion M11 can be reliably ensured.

[0530] (14) In the fourteenth embodiment, the stopper M63 is formed to extend in the axial direction DRa.

[0531] Thus, the stopper M63 can be easily brought into contact with the rotation restricting portion M122 provided on the bottom portion M12.

[0532] (Fifteenth embodiment)

[0533] Next, refer to Figures 51 to 54 The fifteenth embodiment will now be described. In the fifteenth embodiment, the shapes of the housing M10, valve M60, and sealing member M70 differ from those in the fourteenth embodiment. Otherwise, the fifteenth embodiment is identical to the fourteenth embodiment. Therefore, the fifteenth embodiment will primarily be described with respect to the portions that differ from the fourteenth embodiment, and description of the portions that are identical to the fourteenth embodiment will be omitted.

[0534] like Figure 51As shown, the housing M10 of the fifteenth embodiment is larger in the axial direction DRa than the fourteenth embodiment. That is, the barrel M11 of this embodiment is larger in the axial direction DRa than the barrel M11 of the fourteenth embodiment. Moreover, compared to the fourteenth embodiment, the barrel M11 of the fifteenth embodiment has additional openings M49a and M49b. That is, ten openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, M48, M49a, and M49b are formed in the barrel M11. These ten openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, M48, M49a, and M49b are arranged in a grid pattern, with five openings arranged in the axial direction DRa and two rows arranged in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0535] Hereinafter, the ten openings M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, M48, M49a, and M49b are also referred to as the ten openings M41 to 49b. The opening M49a is referred to as the fifth fluid inlet M49a. Furthermore, the opening M49b is referred to as the fifth fluid outlet M49b. The fifth fluid inlet M49a is an inlet port for allowing fluid to flow into the valve accommodating space AS within the housing M10. The fifth fluid outlet M49b is an outlet port for allowing fluid flowing into the valve accommodating space AS within the housing M10 to flow out of the valve accommodating space AS.

[0536] Furthermore, the first fluid outlet portion M41, the first fluid inlet portion M42, the second fluid inlet portion M44, the second fluid outlet portion M43, and the fifth fluid outlet portion M49b are arranged on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2. Furthermore, the third fluid inlet portion M45, the third fluid outlet portion M46, the fourth fluid outlet portion M48, the fourth fluid inlet portion M47, and the fifth fluid inlet portion M49a are arranged on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2.

[0537] Moreover, if Figure 52 As shown, the seal component M70 of the fifteenth embodiment has a larger axial dimension DRa as the cylindrical portion M11 increases in the axial direction DRa compared to the fourteenth embodiment. Furthermore, the seal component M70 has five through-holes M71 arranged in the axial direction DRa, corresponding to the ten openings M41 to M49b arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc. Specifically, the seal component M70 of the fifteenth embodiment has through-holes M71 arranged in five stages in the axial direction DRa and in four rows in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0538] Furthermore, in the fifteenth embodiment, one more row of through holes M71 is provided on each of one side and the other side of the circumferential direction DRc than the ten openings M41 to M49b arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the sealing member M70 includes a row of through holes M71 on the first axial direction DRa1 side and a row of through holes M71 on the second axial direction DRa2 side, formed at positions in the circumferential direction DRc that do not oppose the ten openings M41 to M49b.

[0539] The portion of the sealing member M70 where the two central rows of through-holes M71 are formed surrounds each of the ten openings M41 to M49b and suppresses mixing of the fluids passing through the ten openings M41 to M49b.

[0540] Furthermore, the row of through-holes M71 formed at the end portion of the sealing member M70 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the row of through-holes M71 formed at the end portion on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side surround the fluid passages that do not face the ten openings M41 to M49b. Thus, the row of through-holes M71 formed at the end portion of the sealing member M70 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side respectively seal the fluid passages that do not face the ten openings M41 to M49b.

[0541] In addition, if Figure 53 As shown, in the valve M60 of the fifteenth embodiment, a plurality of fluid passages M64 are formed corresponding to the ten openings M41 to M49b, which are arranged in five rows in the axial direction DRa and in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, an eleventh fluid passage M64k, corresponding to the ninth fluid passage M64i in the fourteenth embodiment, is formed in the valve outer wall portion M61.

[0542] Specifically, the eleventh fluid passage M64k can span five adjacent openings in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, when the valve M60 is rotated in the circumferential direction DRc and positioned opposite the ten openings M41 to M49b, the eleventh fluid passage M64k can face the second-stage opening and the fourth-stage opening, or the second-stage opening through the fourth-stage opening.

[0543] Here, if the second circumferential direction DRc2 of the eleventh fluid passage M64k is positioned opposite to the first row of openings, the first circumferential direction DRc1 side does not face the ten openings M41 to M49b. Thus, the eleventh fluid passage M64k connects the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are not adjacent to each other, via a portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side that does not face the ten openings M41 to M49b. Thus, as Figure 54As shown, the fluid control valve M1 allows the fluid flowing from the first fluid inlet portion M42 into the valve M60 to flow to the second fluid outlet portion M43 via a portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side in the eleventh fluid passage M64k.

[0544] Here, when fluid flowing from the second fluid inlet M44 flows toward the second fluid outlet M43, it bypasses the portion of the eleventh fluid passage M64k that faces the ten openings M41 to M49b of the valve outer wall M61. The portion of the eleventh fluid passage M64k that bypasses the portion of the eleventh fluid passage M64k that faces the ten openings M41 to M49b forms a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side. Furthermore, the portion of the eleventh fluid passage M64k that forms a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side is surrounded by a portion of the sealing member M70 that forms a row of through-holes M71 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side. Therefore, fluid flowing into the portion of the eleventh fluid passage M64k that forms a row on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side is prevented from leaking through the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the barrel M11.

[0545] The fifteenth embodiment is otherwise the same as the fourteenth embodiment. As in the fourteenth embodiment, the fluid control valve M1 of the fifteenth embodiment can obtain the effects achieved by the configuration common to or equivalent to that of the fourteenth embodiment.

[0546] (Sixteenth embodiment)

[0547] Next, refer to Figures 55 to 56 The sixteenth embodiment will now be described. In the sixteenth embodiment, the shape of the valve M60 differs from that of the fourteenth embodiment. Otherwise, the sixteenth embodiment is identical to the fourteenth embodiment. Therefore, in the sixteenth embodiment, the differences from the fourteenth embodiment will be primarily described, and the description of the identical portions will be omitted.

[0548] like Figure 55 and Figure 56 As shown, the valve M60 of the sixteenth embodiment includes an inner cylinder portion M67 that regulates the size in the radial direction DRr of a plurality of fluid passages M64. The inner cylinder portion M67 is cylindrical and is formed so that the central axis is coaxial with the axis CL.

[0549] like Figure 56As shown, the inner cylinder portion M67 is formed inside the valve M60 along the axial direction DRa, extending from an end portion on the first axial direction DRa1 side to an end portion on the second axial direction DRa2 side. Furthermore, the inner cylinder portion M67 is formed into a generally conical shape, with the outer diameter decreasing from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2. In other words, the inner cylinder portion M67 is formed into a generally conical shape with the second axial direction DRa2 side as the apex and the first axial direction DRa1 side as the base. In other words, in a cross section perpendicular to the axial center CL, the distance from the axial center CL to the housing decreases as the inner cylinder portion M67 moves from the first axial direction DRa1 toward the second axial direction DRa2.

[0550] Furthermore, the inner cylindrical portion M67 has a conical shape that conforms to the cylindrical portion M11. Specifically, the outer surface M671 of the outer shell forming the inner cylindrical portion M67 conforms to a conical side surface similar to that of the cylindrical portion M11. In other words, the portion of the outer surface M671 of the inner cylindrical portion M67 that faces the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylindrical portion M11 is substantially parallel, and the distance between the outer surface M671 and the inner circumferential surface M16 in the radial direction DRr is substantially constant.

[0551] Here, the distance between the outer surface M671 and the inner peripheral surface M16 in the radial direction DRr is set as the distance D. According to the sixteenth embodiment, the distance D between the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j formed in any of the first, second, third, and fourth stage sections is constant.

[0552] However, in the fourteenth embodiment, the distances in the radial direction DRr between the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j formed in each of the first, second, third, and fourth stage sections decrease from the first axial direction DRa1 side toward the second axial direction DRa2 side. Therefore, when the fluid flowing through each of the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j flows to different stages in the axial direction DRa, the flow path area decreases, potentially causing pressure loss.

[0553] In contrast, in the sixteenth embodiment, the distance D between the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j formed in any one of the first, second, third and fourth stages is constant, thereby suppressing the pressure loss caused by the reduction in flow path area.

[0554] The sixteenth embodiment is otherwise the same as the fourteenth embodiment. As in the fourteenth embodiment, the fluid control valve M1 of the sixteenth embodiment can obtain the effects achieved by the configuration common to or equivalent to that of the fourteenth embodiment.

[0555] (Seventeenth embodiment)

[0556] Next, refer to Figures 57 to 59 The seventeenth embodiment will now be described. In the seventeenth embodiment, the method for mounting the drive unit M30 and the housing cover M20 to the housing M10 differs from that in the fourteenth embodiment. Otherwise, the seventeenth embodiment is identical to the fourteenth embodiment. Therefore, in the seventeenth embodiment, the differences from the fourteenth embodiment will be primarily described, and the description of the identical portions will be omitted.

[0557] like Figure 57 As shown, on the first axial direction DRa1 side of the cylindrical portion M11 , in addition to the claw portion M111 for attaching the housing cover M20 , a housing screw hole M113 for inserting a screw member S for fixing the housing cover M20 is provided.

[0558] In addition, the housing cover M20 has a cover screw receiving portion M26 for inserting a screw member S, and the screw member S is inserted into the housing screw hole M113 provided in the cylinder M11. Figure 59 As shown, the central axes of the housing screw holes M113 and the cover screw receiving portion M26 coincide with each other. Furthermore, the housing cover M20 is secured by screw members S inserted into the housing screw holes M113 and the cover screw receiving portion M26. In other words, the housing cover M20 is secured to the barrel M11 through a snap fit and secured by the screw members S. The screw members S can be various screws, such as countersunk screws and self-tapping screws.

[0559] The driving unit M30 is fixed to the housing cover M20 by screw members S for attaching the housing cover M20 to the cylindrical portion M11. That is, the housing cover M20 and the driving unit M30 are fastened and fixed to the cylindrical portion M11 by the common screw members S.

[0560] As described above, in the seventeenth embodiment, the driving unit M30 and the housing cover M20 are fastened and fixed to the housing M10 using the common screw members S.

[0561] This can reduce the number of parts required for assembling and fixing the driving unit M30 and the housing cover M20 to the housing M10.

[0562] The seventeenth embodiment is otherwise the same as the fourteenth embodiment. As in the fourteenth embodiment, the fluid control valve M1 of the seventeenth embodiment can obtain the effects achieved by the configuration common to or equivalent to that of the fourteenth embodiment.

[0563] (Variation of the Seventeenth Embodiment)

[0564] In the seventeenth embodiment, the housing cover M20 is fixed to the cylinder M11 by snap-fitting and fixed by the screw member S, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in the case where the housing cover M20 and the driving unit M30 are fastened to the cylinder M11 by the common screw member S, as shown in FIG. Figure 60 and Figure 61 As shown, the housing cover M20 may not be fixed to the cylinder M11 by snap-fitting. In this case, the fluid control valve M1 may not have the claw M111 provided on the cylinder M11 and the engagement receiving portion M25 provided on the housing cover M20.

[0565] (Eighteenth embodiment)

[0566] Next, refer to Figure 62 The eighteenth embodiment will now be described. In the eighteenth embodiment, the method for disposing the force-applying portion M80 differs from the fourteenth embodiment. Otherwise, the eighteenth embodiment is identical to the fourteenth embodiment. Therefore, in the eighteenth embodiment, the differences from the fourteenth embodiment will be primarily described, and the description of the identical portions will be omitted.

[0567] like Figure 62 As shown, the valve M60 of the eighteenth embodiment is provided with a protrusion M114 protruding toward the first axial direction DRa1 on the first axial direction DRa1 side. The protrusion M114 is provided inside the biasing portion M80 formed of a compression coil spring.

[0568] The cross section of the spring guide M81 parallel to the axis CL is formed into an L shape, and its radially inner surface slides in contact with the protrusion M114 provided on the first axial direction DRa1 side of the valve M60, and its surface on the first axial direction DRa1 side slides in contact with the surface on the first axial direction DRa1 side of the valve M60.

[0569] Thus, the spring guide M81 can suppress positional deviation of the urging portion M80 in the radial direction DRr and can transmit the urging force of the urging portion M80 to the valve M60.

[0570] The other aspects of the eighteenth embodiment are the same as those of the fourteenth embodiment. As in the fourteenth embodiment, the fluid control valve M1 of the eighteenth embodiment can obtain the effects achieved by the configuration common to or equivalent to that of the fourteenth embodiment.

[0571] (Nineteenth embodiment)

[0572] Configuration and References of the Fluid Control Valve of the Nineteenth Embodiment Figures 35 to 50 The structure of the fluid control valve of the fourteenth embodiment described above is the same, so the description thereof is omitted. The nineteenth embodiment has the following effects.

[0573] The valve M60 of the nineteenth embodiment includes a flow path that guides fluid flowing in from any one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 to any one of the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48 to which the valve M60 is connected. Furthermore, the valve M60 includes a flow path that guides fluid flowing in from any one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 to any one of the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48 to which the valve M60 is connected. Furthermore, the valve M60 functions as a flow path that guides fluid flowing in from any one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 to any one of the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48 to which the valve M60 is connected. Furthermore, the valve M60 includes a flow path that guides fluid flowing in from any one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M42 to M47 to any one of the first to fourth fluid outlet portions M41 to M48 to which the valve M60 is connected.

[0574] Thus, the fluid control valve M1 can realize various fluid flow modes, such as rotating the valve M60 to make the fluid flowing in from one fluid inlet flow out from one or more fluid outlets, or making the fluid flowing in from multiple fluid inlets flow out from one or more fluid outlets.

[0575] Furthermore, according to the nineteenth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0576] (1) In the nineteenth embodiment, the ribs M66 that divide adjacent fluid passages among the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j are formed by continuously and integrally forming the axial ribs M66a and the circumferential ribs M66b that divide adjacent portions.

[0577] Thus, the volume of the valve M60 can be reduced compared to a case where the ribs M66 that divide the adjacent fluid passages are not continuously formed and are not integrally formed.

[0578] (2) In the nineteenth embodiment, the eight openings M41 to M48 are formed in a lattice pattern, with a first fluid outlet M41, a first fluid inlet M42, and a second fluid inlet M44 at the end portion on the first circumferential direction DRc1. A ninth fluid passage M64i is formed in the valve outer wall portion M61. This ninth fluid passage M64i guides fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 to the first fluid outlet M41, bypassing portions of the valve outer wall portion M61 that face the eight openings M41 to M48. The sealing member M70 surrounds the ninth fluid passage M64i at a position that does not face the eight openings M41 to M48 in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0579] This allows a flow path to be formed in the ninth fluid passage M64i, which is positioned neither opposite nor directly connected to the eight openings M41 to M48. In other words, the location of the valve outer wall M61 through which fluid flows is not limited to locations opposite the eight openings M41 to M48, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in fluid flow patterns. Consequently, it is possible to increase the number of switching options when switching between the first to fourth fluid outlets M41 to M48, which are connected to the first to fourth fluid inlet M42 to M47, respectively.

[0580] (3) In the nineteenth embodiment, the ninth fluid passage M64i allows the second fluid inlet portion M44 and the first fluid outlet portion M41, which are not adjacent to each other, to communicate with each other.

[0581] Thus, the openings connected by the ninth fluid passage M64i among the eight openings M41 to M48 are not limited to mutually opposing openings, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in the fluid flow pattern. Consequently, it is possible to increase the number of switching options when switching between the first to fourth fluid outlets M41 to M48, which are connected to the first to fourth fluid inlet M42 to M47, respectively.

[0582] (4) In the nineteenth embodiment, when the ninth fluid passage M64i is positioned opposite to the first fluid inlet portion M42 to the fourth fluid inlet portion M47 and the first fluid outlet portion M41 to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet portion M42, the second fluid inlet portion M44 and the third fluid inlet portion M45 is guided to the fourth fluid outlet portion M48.

[0583] In this way, the fluid is caused to flow around the portions opposing the eight openings M41 to M48. This allows the ninth fluid passage M64i to function not only as a bypass passage, but also as a bypass passage. Consequently, the volume of the valve M60 can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the ninth fluid passage M64i is used exclusively as a bypass passage.

[0584] (5) In the nineteenth embodiment, the valve M60 includes the closing portion M65 that closes one of the eight openings M41 to M48.

[0585] Thus, the fluid control valve M1 can not only allow the fluid to flow but also prohibit the fluid from flowing, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in the fluid flow pattern.

[0586] (6) In the nineteenth embodiment, when the flow path portions of each row are set as one unit of flow path portion, the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j form ten units on the valve outer wall portion M61.

[0587] Thus, even if the valve M60 is rotated in every two rows so that all the portions facing the eight openings M41 to M48 are changed, five switching patterns can be ensured.

[0588] (7) In the nineteenth embodiment, the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc so that the first to tenth fluid passages M64a to M64j facing the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc change for each row.

[0589] Thus, by the rotation of the valve M60 , portions facing the eight openings M41 to M48 arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc are changed row by row, thereby ensuring ten switching patterns.

[0590] (8) In the nineteenth embodiment, the seal member M70 is provided with a plurality of through holes M71 arranged in the axial direction DRa and in a plurality of rows in the circumferential direction DRc. The number of rows of through holes is set to be greater than the number of rows of openings.

[0591] Thus, when the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i are positioned at the opening portion of the end portion across the circumferential direction DRc, the sealing component M70 surrounds these third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i.

[0592] Therefore, even if the third, seventh, and ninth fluid passages M64c, M64g, and M64i are positioned so as to straddle the opening at the end of the circumferential direction DRc, the fluid flowing through these fluid passages can be prevented from flowing between the valve outer wall M61 and the barrel portion M11. Furthermore, the fluid flowing through these third, seventh, and ninth fluid passages M64c, M64g, and M64i can be prevented from circling around the back side of the valve M60. Therefore, it is unnecessary to adjust the rotational position of the valve M60 so that the third, seventh, and ninth fluid passages M64c, M64g, and M64i do not straddle the opening formed at the end of the circumferential direction DRc. In other words, it is possible to prevent the fluid from flowing toward the back side of the valve M60 without restricting the switching pattern of the fluid control valve M1, which is switched by adjusting the rotational position of the valve M60.

[0593] (Twentieth embodiment)

[0594] Next, refer to Figures 97 to 102BThe twentieth embodiment will now be described. In this embodiment, the shapes of the housing M10, valve M60, and sealing member M70 differ from those of the nineteenth embodiment. Otherwise, the twentieth embodiment is identical to the nineteenth embodiment. Therefore, in the twentieth embodiment, the differences from the nineteenth embodiment will be primarily described, and the description of the identical portions will be omitted.

[0595] like Figure 97 As shown, the housing M10 of the twentieth embodiment has a larger size in the axial direction DRa than the nineteenth embodiment. That is, the barrel M11 of the twentieth embodiment has a larger size in the axial direction DRa than the barrel M11 of the nineteenth embodiment. Furthermore, the barrel M11 of the twentieth embodiment has ten openings M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f. These ten openings M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f are arranged in a grid pattern, with five openings arranged in the axial direction DRa and two rows arranged in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, ten openings M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f are formed in the portion of the barrel M11 where the port-forming portion M13 is provided. Hereinafter, the ten openings M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f may be referred to as the ten openings M91a to M92f.

[0596] like Figure 97 As shown, the ten openings M91a to M92f are formed in a lattice shape in which five openings are arranged in the axial direction DRa and two rows are arranged in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0597] In the twentieth embodiment, four openings M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f allow fluid to flow into the valve accommodating space AS. Six openings M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f allow fluid to flow out of the housing M10. Hereinafter, the openings M91a, M91b, M91c, and M91d through which fluid flows into the valve accommodating space AS are designated as a first fluid inlet M91a, a second fluid inlet M91b, a third fluid inlet M91c, and a fourth fluid inlet M91d. Furthermore, the six openings M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f through which fluid flows out of the housing M10 are designated as a first fluid outlet M92a, a second fluid outlet M92b, a third fluid outlet M92c, a fourth fluid outlet M92d, a fifth fluid outlet M92e, and a sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0598] The first fluid inlet M91a, the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, and the fourth fluid inlet M91d are inlet ports for allowing fluid to flow into the valve accommodating space AS. The first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, the third fluid outlet M92c, the fourth fluid outlet M92d, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f are outlet ports for allowing fluid flowing into the valve accommodating space AS to flow out of the valve accommodating space AS.

[0599] Hereinafter, the first fluid inlet portion M91a, the second fluid inlet portion M91b, the third fluid inlet portion M91c, and the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d may sometimes be referred to as the first fluid inlet portion M91a to the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d. In addition, the first fluid outlet portion M92a, the second fluid outlet portion M92b, the third fluid outlet portion M92c, the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d, the fifth fluid outlet portion M92e, and the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f may sometimes be referred to as the first fluid outlet portion M92a to the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f.

[0600] Furthermore, in the twentieth embodiment, the first fluid inlet portion M91a, the first fluid outlet portion M92a, the second fluid outlet portion M92b, the second fluid inlet portion M91b, and the third fluid outlet portion M92c are arranged on the side in the first circumferential direction DRc1. Specifically, the first fluid inlet portion M91a, the first fluid outlet portion M92a, the second fluid outlet portion M92b, the second fluid inlet portion M91b, and the third fluid outlet portion M92c are arranged in the axial direction DRa from the side in the second axial direction DRa2 toward the side in the first axial direction DRa1. Furthermore, the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d, the third fluid inlet portion M91c, the fifth fluid outlet portion M92e, the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f, and the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d are arranged on the side in the second circumferential direction DRc2. Specifically, the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d, the third fluid inlet portion M91c, the fifth fluid outlet portion M92e, the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f, and the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d are arranged in the axial direction DRa from the second axial direction DRa2 side toward the first axial direction DRa1 side.

[0601] Hereinafter, the group of openings consisting of the first fluid inlet M91a, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, the second fluid inlet M91b, and the third fluid outlet M92c is referred to as the first row of openings. Furthermore, the group of openings consisting of the fourth fluid outlet M92d, the third fluid inlet M91c, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, the sixth fluid outlet M92f, and the fourth fluid inlet M91d is sometimes referred to as the second row of openings.

[0602] In addition, the group of openings consisting of the first fluid inlet portion M91a and the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d is sometimes referred to as the first-level openings, and the group of openings consisting of the first fluid outlet portion M92a and the third fluid inlet portion M91c is sometimes referred to as the second-level openings. In addition, the group of openings consisting of the second fluid outlet portion M92b and the fifth fluid outlet portion M92e is sometimes referred to as the third-level openings, and the group of openings consisting of the second fluid inlet portion M91b and the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f is sometimes referred to as the fourth-level openings. In addition, the group of openings consisting of the third fluid outlet portion M92c and the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d is sometimes referred to as the fifth-level openings.

[0603] In addition, if Figure 98As shown, the seal component M70 of the twentieth embodiment has a larger axial dimension DRa as the cylindrical portion M11 increases in the axial dimension DRa, compared to the nineteenth embodiment. Furthermore, the through-holes M71 formed in the seal component M70 correspond to ten openings M91a to M92f, arranged five in the axial dimension DRa and two in the circumferential direction DRc. Specifically, the seal component M70 of the twentieth embodiment has through-holes M71 arranged in five stages in the axial dimension DRa and four in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0604] Furthermore, in the twentieth embodiment, the through-holes M71 are provided in one row on each side of the circumferential direction DRc, one more than the ten openings M91a to M92f arranged in two rows in the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the sealing member M70 includes a row of through-holes M71 on the first axial direction DRa1 side and a row of through-holes M71 on the second axial direction DRa2 side, formed at positions in the circumferential direction DRc that do not oppose the ten openings M91a to M92f.

[0605] The portion of the sealing component M70 where the two central rows of through-holes M71 are formed surrounds the ten openings M91a to M92f, respectively, and prevents mixing of the fluids passing through the ten openings M91a to M92f. Furthermore, the row of through-holes M71 formed at the end portion of the sealing component M70 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the row of through-holes M71 formed at the end portion of the sealing component M70 on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side surround fluid pathways that are not opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. Thus, the row of through-holes M71 formed at the end portion of the sealing component M70 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the end portion of the second circumferential direction DRc2 side seals the fluid pathways that are not opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f.

[0606] In addition, if Figure 99 As shown, in the valve M60 of the twentieth embodiment, a plurality of fluid passages M68 are formed corresponding to ten openings M91a to M92f arranged in five rows in the axial direction DRa and two rows in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, eleven blocking portions M69 are formed on the valve outer wall M61 to prevent fluid from flowing into the valve housing space AS.

[0607] Specifically, if Figure 100As shown, the valve outer wall portion M61 has fifteen fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, and M68s through which fluid flows. Furthermore, the valve outer wall portion M61 has eleven closing portions M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, and M69k formed therein. These fifteen fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, and M68s and eleven closing portions M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, and M69k are formed so that when the valve M60 rotates, any fluid passage is opposite to any one of the ten openings M91a to M92f. Moreover, the fifteen fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, M68s and the eleven closing portions M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, M69k are separated by ribs M66.

[0608] Hereinafter, the fifteen fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, and M68s are sometimes represented as fifteen fluid passages M68a to M68s. In addition, the fifteen fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, and M68s are called the first fluid passage M68a, the second fluid passage M68b, the third fluid passage M68c, the fourth fluid passage M68d, the fifth fluid passage M68e, the sixth fluid passage M68f, the seventh fluid passage M68g, the eighth fluid passage M68h, the ninth fluid passage M68i, the tenth fluid passage M68j, the eleventh fluid passage M68k, the twelfth fluid passage M68m, the thirteenth fluid passage M68n, the fourteenth fluid passage M68r, and the fifteenth fluid passage M68s. Moreover, the first fluid passage M68a, the second fluid passage M68b, the third fluid passage M68c, the fourth fluid passage M68d, the fifth fluid passage M68e, the sixth fluid passage M68f, the seventh fluid passage M68g, the eighth fluid passage M68h, the ninth fluid passage M68i, the tenth fluid passage M68j, the eleventh fluid passage M68k, the twelfth fluid passage M68m, the thirteenth fluid passage M68n, the fourteenth fluid passage M68r, and the fifteenth fluid passage M68s are sometimes referred to as the first fluid passage M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s.

[0609] In addition, the eleven closing parts M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, and M69k are sometimes expressed as the eleven closing parts M69a to M69k. In addition, the eleven closing parts M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, and M69k are referred to as the first closing part M69a, the second closing part M69b, the third closing part M69c, the fourth closing part M69d, the fifth closing part M69e, the sixth closing part M69f, the seventh closing part M69g, the eighth closing part M69h, the ninth closing part M69i, the tenth closing part M69j, and the eleventh closing part M69k. Moreover, the first closed part M69a, the second closed part M69b, the third closed part M69c, the fourth closed part M69d, the fifth closed part M69e, the sixth closed part M69f, the seventh closed part M69g, the eighth closed part M69h, the ninth closed part M69i, the tenth closed part M69j, and the eleventh closed part M69k are sometimes referred to as the first closed part M69a to the eleventh closed part M69k.

[0610] Any one of the first to fifteenth fluid passages M68a to M68s and any one of the first to eleventh closing portions M69a to M69k of the valve M60 positioned on the front side are opposite to the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M91a to M91d and the first to sixth fluid outlet portions M92a to M92f.

[0611] Here, the first to fifteenth fluid passages M68a to M68s are formed so as to enable at least one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M91a to M91d to communicate with at least one of the first to sixth fluid outlet portions M92a to M92f. Thus, the first to fifteenth fluid passages M68a to M68s can guide a fluid flowing from any of the connected fluid inlet portions from the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M91a to M91d to any of the connected fluid outlet portions from the first to sixth fluid outlet portions M92a to M92f.

[0612] When the first to eleventh sealing portions M69a to M69k are opposed to any one of the first to fourth fluid inlet portions M91a to M91d, the fluid is prevented from flowing into the valve accommodating space AS from the opposed inlet portion. Furthermore, when the first to eleventh sealing portions M69a to M69k are opposed to any one of the first to sixth fluid outlet portions M92a to M92f, the fluid is prevented from flowing out of the opposed outlet portion.

[0613] Moreover, the first to fifteenth fluid passages M68a to M68s and the first to eleventh sealing portions M69a to M69k are respectively surrounded by the axial ribs M66a and the circumferential ribs M66b.

[0614] Reference Figure 100 and Figure 101 The shapes and formation positions of the first to fifteenth fluid passages M68a to M68s and the first to eleventh sealing portions M69a to M69k will be specifically described. Figure 100 and Figure 101 The valves M60 shown in the figure show the front side of each valve M60 when the valve M60 is rotated in the circumferential direction DRc to identify the fluid passages and the blocking portions facing the ten openings M91a to M92f. Figure 100 and Figure 101 In FIG, the grid-shaped block schematically shows the portion where the first fluid passage M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s and the first closing portion M69a to the eleventh closing portion M69k are formed when the valve M60 is expanded along the circumferential direction DRc. Figure 100 and Figure 101In FIG, the grid represents the rib M66. In addition, the solid line in the grid represents the portion where the rib M66 is formed. The dotted line represents the portion where the rib M66 is not formed.

[0615] The first fluid passage M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s are shaped by combining a plurality of partitions positioned at any one of the first to fifth stages and any one of the first to tenth columns. In addition, the first closed portion M69a to the tenth closed portion M69j correspond to a partition positioned at any one of the first to fifth stages and any one of the first to tenth columns. Figure 100 In order to facilitate viewing of the drawings, the reference numerals representing the axial side ribs M66a and the circumferential side ribs M66b are omitted.

[0616] The first fluid passage M68a is formed into a shape formed by combining the partitions of the second level and the first column to the partitions of the second level and the third column. The first fluid passage M68a thus formed can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the first fluid passage M68a at a position opposite to the ten openings M91a to M92f. The first fluid passage M68a can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Moreover, the first fluid passage M68a can connect the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c, which are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0617] In this case, in the first fluid outlet portion M92a and the third fluid inlet portion M91c adjacent to each other, the third fluid inlet portion M91c corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the first fluid outlet portion M92a corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0618] Furthermore, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the first fluid passage M68a so that the first fluid outlet M92a communicates with the third fluid inlet M91c. In this case, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the first fluid passage M68a are opposed to the partition M50 that divides the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c, and the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions that are different therefrom. Furthermore, the axial rib M66a is not formed at a position that is opposed to the axial partition M52 that divides the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c.

[0619] The second fluid passage M68b is formed into a shape that is a combination of a partition of the third level and the first column and a partition of the fourth level and the first column. The second fluid passage M68b thus constructed can span two openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the second fluid passage M68b at a position opposite to the ten openings M91a to M92f. The second fluid passage M68b can be opposite to the third-level opening and the fourth-level opening. Moreover, the second fluid passage M68b can connect the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b that are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. In addition, the second fluid passage M68b can connect the fifth fluid outlet M92e and the sixth fluid outlet M92f that are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0620] In this case, in the second fluid inlet portion M91b and the second fluid outlet portion M92b adjacent to each other, the second fluid inlet portion M91b corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the second fluid outlet portion M92b corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0621] Furthermore, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the second fluid passage M68b so that the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b are in communication. In this case, the axial-side rib M66a and the circumferential-side rib M66b that separate the second fluid passage M68b are opposed to the partition M50 that separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b, as well as the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions different therefrom. Furthermore, the circumferential-side rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the axial-side partition M52 that separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b.

[0622] The third fluid passage M68c is formed by combining the partitions of the fifth level and first row to the partitions of the fifth level and third row. The third fluid passage M68c thus configured can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the third fluid passage M68c opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. The third fluid passage M68c can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M68c can connect the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d, which are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0623] In this case, in the third fluid outlet portion M92c and the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d adjacent to each other, the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the third fluid outlet portion M92c corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0624] Furthermore, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the third fluid passage M68c so that the third fluid outlet M92c communicates with the fourth fluid inlet M91d. In this case, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the third fluid passage M68c oppose the partition M50 that divides the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d, as well as the fluid inlet and outlet portions that are different therefrom. Furthermore, the axial rib M66a is not formed at a position that opposes the axial partition M52 that divides the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d.

[0625] The fourth fluid passage M68d has a shape formed by combining the first-stage, second-row partitions with the first-stage, third-row partitions. The fourth fluid passage M68d thus constructed can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated in the circumferential direction DRc to position the fourth fluid passage M68d opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. The fourth fluid passage M68d can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the fourth fluid passage M68d can connect the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d, which are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0626] In this case, in the first fluid inlet portion M91a and the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d adjacent to each other, the first fluid inlet portion M91a corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0627] Furthermore, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the fourth fluid passage M68d so that the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d are in communication. In this case, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the fourth fluid passage M68d oppose the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d, and the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions that are different therefrom. Furthermore, the axial rib M66a is not formed at a position that opposes the axial partition M52 that divides the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d.

[0628] The fifth fluid passage M68e is formed by combining the partitions of the fourth level and second row with the partitions of the fourth level and third row. The fifth fluid passage M68e thus configured can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the fifth fluid passage M68e opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. The fifth fluid passage M68e can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the fifth fluid passage M68e can connect the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0629] In this case, in the second fluid inlet portion M91b and the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f adjacent to each other, the second fluid inlet portion M91b corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0630] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the fifth fluid passage M68e so as to connect the second fluid inlet M91b with the sixth fluid outlet M92f, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the fifth fluid passage M68e oppose the partition M50 that divides the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f from the other fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions. Furthermore, the axial rib M66a is not formed at a position that opposes the axial partition M52 that divides the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0631] The sixth fluid passage M68f has a shape formed by combining the second-stage, fourth-row section, the fourth-stage, fourth-row section, the second-stage, fifth-row section, and the fourth-stage, fifth-row section. The sixth fluid passage M68f configured in this manner can span three openings in the axial direction DRa and two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M68i can span five adjacent openings in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc.

[0632] Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the sixth fluid passage M68f opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. The sixth fluid passage M68f can be opposite the second-stage openings to the fourth-stage openings. Furthermore, the sixth fluid passage M68f can connect the third fluid inlet M91c, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. Furthermore, the sixth fluid passage M68f can connect the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent to each other in either the axial direction DRa or the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the sixth fluid passage M68f can connect the second fluid inlet M91b and the first fluid outlet M92a, which are not adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0633] In this case, among the mutually adjacent third fluid inlet portion M91c, fifth fluid outlet portion M92e, and sixth fluid outlet portion M92f, the third fluid inlet portion M91c corresponds to the second adjacent inlet portion, and the fifth fluid outlet portion M92e and the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f correspond to the second adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, among the mutually adjacent second fluid inlet portion M91b, third fluid inlet portion M91c, first fluid outlet portion M92a, second fluid outlet portion M92b, and sixth fluid outlet portion M92f, the second fluid inlet portion M91b and the third fluid inlet portion M91c correspond to the fourth adjacent inlet portion. Among the mutually adjacent second fluid inlet portion M91b, third fluid inlet portion M91c, first fluid outlet portion M92a, second fluid outlet portion M92b, and sixth fluid outlet portion M92f, the first fluid outlet portion M92a, second fluid outlet portion M92b, and sixth fluid outlet portion M92f correspond to the fourth adjacent outlet portion.

[0634] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the sixth fluid passage M68f so as to connect the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the sixth fluid passage M68f are opposed to the partition M50 that divides the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f from the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions different therefrom. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the circumferential partition M51 that divides the second fluid inlet M91b, the first fluid outlet M92a, and the second fluid outlet M92b. Furthermore, the axial side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite to the axial side partition M52 that divides the first fluid outlet portion M92a and the third fluid inlet portion M91c, and at a position opposite to the axial side partition M52 that divides the second fluid inlet portion M91b and the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f.

[0635] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the sixth fluid passage M68f so as to connect the second fluid inlet portion M91b and the first fluid outlet portion M92a, which are not adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposing the axial-side partition M52 on the side of the axial-side partition M52 that divides the second fluid inlet portion M91b in the circumferential direction DRc where the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f is not present (i.e., on the side of the first circumferential direction DRc1). Furthermore, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposing the axial-side partition M52 on the side of the axial-side partition M52 that divides the second fluid outlet portion M92b in the circumferential direction DRc where the third fluid inlet portion M91c is not present (i.e., on the side of the first circumferential direction DRc1).

[0636] The seventh fluid passage M68g is formed by combining the partitions of the fifth level and fifth column to the partitions of the fifth level and eighth column. The seventh fluid passage M68g thus configured can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated in the circumferential direction DRc to position the seventh fluid passage M68g opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. The seventh fluid passage M68g can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the seventh fluid passage M68g can connect the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d, which are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0637] In this case, in the third fluid outlet portion M92c and the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d adjacent to each other, the fourth fluid inlet portion M91d corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the third fluid outlet portion M92c corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0638] Furthermore, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated in the circumferential direction DRc to position the seventh fluid passage M68g so that the third fluid outlet M92c communicates with the fourth fluid inlet M91d. In this case, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the seventh fluid passage M68g oppose the partition M50 that divides the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d, as well as the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions different therefrom. Furthermore, the axial rib M66a is not formed in a position that opposes the axial partition M52 that divides the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d.

[0639] The eighth fluid passage M68h is formed into a shape formed by combining the first-stage and sixth-row partitions with the second-stage and sixth-row partitions. The eighth fluid passage M68h thus constructed can span two openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the eighth fluid passage M68h opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. The eighth fluid passage M68h can be opposite the first-stage openings and the second-stage openings. Moreover, the eighth fluid passage M68h can connect the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. In addition, the eighth fluid passage M68h can connect the third fluid inlet M91c and the fourth fluid outlet M92d, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0640] In this case, in the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M91a and first fluid outlet portion M92a, the first fluid inlet portion M91a corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the first fluid outlet portion M92a corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. In addition, in the mutually adjacent third fluid inlet portion M91c and fourth fluid outlet portion M92d, the third fluid inlet portion M91c corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0641] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc to position the eighth fluid passage M68h so as to connect the first fluid inlet M91a with the first fluid outlet M92a, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the eighth fluid passage M68h oppose the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M91a from the first fluid inlet M91a and the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions other than these. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that opposes the circumferential partition M51 that divides the first fluid inlet M91a from the first fluid outlet M92a.

[0642] The ninth fluid passage M68i is formed by combining the partitions of the fourth level and sixth column to the partitions of the fourth level and eighth column. The ninth fluid passage M68i thus constructed can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the ninth fluid passage M68i opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. The ninth fluid passage M68i can span two openings in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M68i can connect the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0643] In this case, in the second fluid inlet portion M91b and the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f adjacent to each other, the second fluid inlet portion M91b corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the sixth fluid outlet portion M92f corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0644] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the ninth fluid passage M68i so as to connect the second fluid inlet M91b with the sixth fluid outlet M92f, the axial-side rib M66a and the circumferential-side rib M66b that divide the ninth fluid passage M68i oppose the partition M50 that divides the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f from the other fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions. Furthermore, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position that opposes the axial-side partition M52 that divides the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0645] The tenth fluid passage M68j has a shape formed by combining the first-stage and seventh-row partitions with the second-stage and seventh-row partitions. The tenth fluid passage M68j constructed in this way can span two openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the tenth fluid passage M68j at a position opposite to the ten openings M91a to M92f. The tenth fluid passage M68j can be opposite to the first-stage openings and the second-stage openings. Moreover, the tenth fluid passage M68j can connect the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. In addition, the tenth fluid passage M68j can connect the third fluid inlet M91c and the fourth fluid outlet M92d, which are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0646] In this case, in the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M91a and first fluid outlet portion M92a, the first fluid inlet portion M91a corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the first fluid outlet portion M92a corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion. In addition, in the mutually adjacent third fluid inlet portion M91c and fourth fluid outlet portion M92d, the third fluid inlet portion M91c corresponds to the first adjacent inlet portion, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d corresponds to the first adjacent outlet portion.

[0647] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc to position the tenth fluid passage M68j so as to connect the first fluid inlet M91a with the first fluid outlet M92a, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b that divide the tenth fluid passage M68j are opposed to the partition M50 that divides the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid inlet M91a from the fluid inlet and fluid outlet portions different therefrom. Furthermore, the circumferential rib M66b is not formed at a position that is opposed to the circumferential partition M51 that divides the first fluid inlet M91a from the first fluid outlet M92a.

[0648] The eleventh fluid passage M68k is formed into a shape formed by combining the first-stage and eighth-row partitions to the third-stage and eighth-row partitions. The eleventh fluid passage M68k thus constructed can span three openings in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 is rotated along the circumferential direction DRc to position the eleventh fluid passage M68k opposite the ten openings M91a to M92f. The eleventh fluid passage M68k can be opposite the first-stage openings to the third-stage openings. Moreover, the eleventh fluid passage M68k can connect the first fluid inlet M91a, the first fluid outlet M92a, and the second fluid outlet M92b that are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa. In addition, the eleventh fluid passage M68k can connect the third fluid inlet M91c, the fourth fluid outlet M92d, and the fifth fluid outlet M92e that are adjacent to each other in the axial direction DRa.

[0649] In this case, among the mutually adjacent first fluid inlet portion M91a, first fluid outlet portion M92a, and second fluid outlet portion M92b, the first fluid inlet portion M91a corresponds to the second adjacent inlet portion, and the first fluid outlet portion M92a and the second fluid outlet portion M92b correspond to the second adjacent outlet portion. Furthermore, among the mutually adjacent third fluid inlet portion M91c, fourth fluid outlet portion M92d, and fifth fluid outlet portion M92e, the third fluid inlet portion M91c corresponds to the second adjacent inlet portion, and the fourth fluid outlet portion M92d and the fifth fluid outlet portion M92e correspond to the second adjacent outlet portion.

[0650] Furthermore, assuming that the valve M60 rotates along the circumferential direction DRc to position the eleventh fluid passage M68k so as to connect the first fluid inlet M91a, the first fluid outlet M92a, and the second fluid outlet M92b, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66...

Claims

1. A fluid control valve comprising: The housing (10) comprises a cylindrical portion (11), a bottom portion (12) provided on one axial side of the cylindrical portion, and a port (13) penetrating an outer wall (14) and an inner wall (16) of the cylindrical portion; A valve (40) is rotatably provided inside the housing with a predetermined axis (CL) as the center, and has a flow path (44) recessed from a radially outer side wall (41) toward the axis; a sealing member (50) disposed between the inner wall of the housing and the valve, wherein a surface (51) of the sealing member on the housing side abuts against a peripheral edge portion (131) of the port in the inner wall of the housing, and a surface (52) of the sealing member on the valve side is in sliding contact with the side wall of the valve; a cover (20) for sealing the opening on the other axial side of the cylindrical portion of the housing; as well as A cover-side limiting portion (26) is provided on the inner side of the cover and limits the movement of the sealing component toward the radial inner side and the other axial side of the cylindrical portion.

2. The fluid control valve according to claim 1, The cover-side restricting portion restricts the sealing member from deforming from a curved shape along the inner wall of the cylindrical portion of the housing and the side wall of the valve.

3. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, The invention also includes a shell side limiting portion (70) which is arranged at the bottom of the shell and limits the movement of the sealing component toward the radial inner side and axial side of the cylinder and limits the deformation of the sealing component from the curved shape along the inner wall of the cylinder or the side wall of the valve.

4. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, A circumferential restriction portion (71) is also provided, which is provided on the cylindrical portion of the housing and restricts the movement of the sealing component to one side and the other side of the circumference of the cylindrical portion.

5. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, The cover-side restriction portion includes an inclined portion (28) inclined radially inward from the other axial side of the cylindrical portion toward one side.

6. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, The material of the portion of the sealing member on the housing side is different from the material of the portion on the valve side.

7. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, The side wall of the valve is formed along the side surface of a cone. The fluid control valve further includes a force applying member (60) which applies force to the valve toward the apex side of the cone, and maintains the side wall of the valve in sliding contact with the sealing member when the valve rotates and stops, and maintains the inner wall of the housing in abutment with the sealing member.

8. The fluid control valve according to claim 7, An inner angle (θ) formed between a generatrix (G) of the cone along which the side wall of the valve extends and an axis of the valve is greater than or equal to 5 degrees.

9. The fluid control valve according to claim 7, The inner wall of the cylindrical portion of the housing has a shape that follows the side surface of a cone that is similar to and coaxial with the cone along which the side wall of the valve follows.

10. The fluid control valve according to claim 7, The valve has a plurality of flow paths arranged in the axial direction. The deep portions (440) on the axial center side of the plurality of flow paths are shaped along the side surface of a cone that is similar to and coaxial with the cone along which the side wall of the valve follows.

11. The fluid control valve according to claim 7, The valve has a plurality of flow paths arranged in the axial direction. In the plurality of flow paths, the distance (D6) between the deep portion on the axial side and the side wall is consistent.

12. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, When the sealing member is removed from the housing, the sealing member becomes a flat surface or is deformed into a shape closer to a flat surface than when the sealing member is assembled into the housing.

13. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, The sealing member is removed from the housing to become a flat state, and the length of the surface (51) of the sealing member facing the valve side when assembled to the housing is set as L. IN In the surface (52) of the sealing member facing the housing side, the length in the circumferential direction of the housing when assembled to the housing is set as L OUT , then L IN ≤L OUT .

14. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, The cover is fixed to the housing by snap-fitting (21).

15. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, The valve, the sealing member, and the cover are configured to be attachable to and detachable from the other axial side of the housing. The valve has an input shaft (45) protruding axially from the other end surface for inputting torque. The cover has an insertion hole (22) for the input shaft to be inserted through, and a shaft sealing component (24) provided inside the insertion hole to prevent fluid from leaking from a gap between an inner wall of the insertion hole and the input shaft.

16. The fluid control valve according to claim 15, An actuator (30) is also provided, which is arranged on the other side of the cover and inputs torque to the input shaft of the valve. The actuator and the cover are fixed to the housing by the same screw (31).

17. The fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, The valve has a stopper (49) protruding from one end surface toward the axial direction at a position away from the axis. The housing has a stopper abutment portion (19) for receiving the stopper of the valve.

18. The fluid control valve according to claim 17, The bottom of the housing has the stopper abutment portion, and the cover does not have the stopper abutment portion.

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