Flow path switching valve

Abstract

This flow path switching valve is provided with: a valve unit provided with: a valve main body in which a first inlet / outlet and a second inlet / outlet are formed in the wall surface of a valve chamber and a third inlet / outlet is formed in the bottom surface of the valve chamber; a valve body rotatably disposed in the valve chamber; the first port is communicated with the first inlet and outlet; the second port is communicated with the second inlet and outlet; and a third port that communicates with the third inlet / outlet, and a rotation drive unit that is connected to the valve unit, rotates the valve body, and is capable of connecting the first port and the second port of another valve unit to the first port and the second port of the valve unit, respectively.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 111828682 (Patent Document 1) discloses a control valve (flow path switching valve) having a valve element that rotates within a valve body and five or more ports (pipe joints).

[0003] In addition, Japanese Patent Gazette No. 2020-94624 (Patent Document 2) discloses the following structure, namely, a flow path switching box, which has: a shell having an inlet and multiple outlets; a chamber, which is connected to the inlet; and a plurality of solenoid valves, which are arranged in the shell and have a movable part that can move relative to the fixed part, the inlets of the multiple solenoid valves are connected to the chamber, and the outlets of each solenoid valve are respectively connected to the outlet, and can independently switch the permission and non-permission of the fluid discharge from the outlet.

[0004] In addition, the following structure is disclosed in Japanese Patent Gazette No. 5560006 (Patent Document 3): a plurality of compound valves are arranged in parallel and stacked, so that the inlet of the first fluid of each compound valve is directly connected, the outlet of the first fluid of each compound valve is directly connected, the inlet of the second fluid of each compound valve is directly connected, and the outlet of the second fluid of each compound valve is directly connected.

[0005] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0006] However, in the conventional examples described in Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2, the number of connection ports and the combination of flow paths are fixed according to the specifications, so there is no degree of freedom, and it is considered that if the specifications change, the design must be redesigned.

[0007] In addition, in a structure in which multiple valve bodies are stacked in parallel as in the conventional example described in Patent Document 3, a structure for coupling the valve bodies together, such as holes for passing through bolts, is required, making it difficult to miniaturize the valve bodies. Summary of the Invention

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to easily realize flow path switching valves of various specifications using a plurality of valve units and to achieve miniaturization of the flow path switching valve.

[0009] Technical solutions to technical problems

[0010] A flow path switching valve according to a first embodiment includes a valve unit and a rotational drive unit. The valve unit includes: a valve body having a valve chamber formed therein, a first inlet and a second inlet for fluid inlet and outlet formed on a wall surface forming the valve chamber, and a third inlet formed on a bottom surface of the valve chamber; a valve element rotatably disposed in the valve chamber and having a flow path formed therein; a first port communicating with the first inlet; a second port disposed parallel to the first port across the valve body and communicating with the second inlet; and a third port communicating with the third inlet and opening on a side opposite to the third inlet. The rotational drive unit is connected to the valve unit and rotates the valve element to selectively switch the communication states of the first inlet, the second inlet, and the third inlet through the flow path of the valve element. By connecting the first port and the second port of the valve unit to the first port and the second port of another valve unit, respectively, a plurality of valve units can be connected in series.

[0011] In this flow path switching valve, by rotating the valve element using a rotary drive unit, the communication state of the first, second, and third inlets of the valve chamber can be selectively switched through the flow path of the valve element. By connecting the first and second ports of one valve unit to the first and second ports of other valve units, respectively, multiple valve units can be connected in series. Therefore, by combining valve units, flow path switching valves of various specifications can be easily implemented, and the flow path switching valve can be miniaturized.

[0012] A second embodiment is the flow path switching valve according to the first embodiment, wherein a female connector is provided at one end of each of the first port and the second port, and a male connector connectable to the female connector is provided at the other end of each of the first port and the second port.

[0013] In this flow path switching valve, a female connector is provided at one end of each of the first and second ports, and a male connector is provided at the other end of each of the first and second ports. Therefore, for example, it is possible to easily connect the first ports of one valve unit to those of another valve unit, and to easily connect the second ports of the other valve unit to each other.

[0014] A third aspect is the flow path switching valve according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein a gap is provided between the adjacent first port and the second port.

[0015] In this flow path switching valve, a gap is provided between the adjacent first and second ports, thereby minimizing heat transfer between, for example, a high-temperature fluid flowing through the first port and a low-temperature fluid flowing through the second port. Consequently, unintended temperature changes in the fluids can be suppressed.

[0016] The fourth method is a flow path switching valve according to any one of the first to third methods, wherein one valve unit is connected in series with other valve units, and the long side direction of the plurality of rotating drive parts provided in each valve unit is set to a direction intersecting with the connection direction of the valve units.

[0017] In this flow path switching valve, the longitudinal direction of the rotation drive unit is set to intersect the connection direction of the valve units. Therefore, the connection pitch of the valve units can be reduced to suppress an increase in the outer dimensions of the flow path switching valve.

[0018] A fifth aspect is the flow path switching valve according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the other valve unit can be superimposed and connected on a side of one valve unit opposite to the rotation drive portion.

[0019] In this flow path switching valve, by overlapping and connecting another valve unit on the side of one valve unit opposite to the rotation drive portion, the degree of freedom in combining the valve units can be increased.

[0020] A sixth aspect is the flow path switching valve according to the fifth aspect, wherein one valve unit is connected to the other valve unit in an overlapping manner, and the two valve elements in the two valve units are rotated by one rotation drive unit.

[0021] In this flow path switching valve, one rotation drive unit rotates the two valve elements in the two overlapping valve units. This reduces the number of parts and reduces costs compared to providing separate rotation drive units in the two valve units.

[0022] A seventh aspect is the flow path switching valve according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein at least four of the valve units are connected in series.

[0023] In this flow path switching valve, flow path switching valves of a wider range of specifications can be easily realized.

[0024] Effects of the Invention

[0025] According to the present disclosure, flow path switching valves of various specifications can be easily realized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the overall structure of a flow path switching valve according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an example in which a storage tank is attached to the flow path switching valve.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing an example in which a storage tank and a pump are attached to a flow path switching valve.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a partially cutaway perspective view showing a flow path switching valve in which two valve units are stacked and two valve elements are rotated by a single rotation drive unit.

[0030] Figure 5 It is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the valve unit.

[0031] Figure 6 It is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the valve unit.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a front view showing a state where the valve unit is viewed from the male connector side of the first flow path.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing a state in which the second flow path is cut in the radial direction, as viewed from the opening side of the third flow path and the valve unit.

[0034] Figure 9 This is a front view showing the valve core.

[0035] Figure 10 It is a bottom view showing the valve core.

[0036] Figure 11 It is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a state in which an opening provided midway in the first flow path is closed by a cover member.

[0037] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing a structure in which, in a flow path switching valve in which two valve units overlap, a portion of one valve unit that overlaps with the other valve unit serves as a cover for closing a valve chamber of the other valve unit.

[0038] Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view showing a flow path switching valve according to Modification 1.

[0039] Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional view showing a flow path switching valve according to Modification 1.

[0040] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which six valve units are connected in series in a flow path switching valve according to Modification 2.

[0041] Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional view showing a valve unit according to Modification 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Below, the method for implementing the present disclosure is described based on the accompanying drawings. The constituent elements represented by the same symbols in each drawing mean that they are the same constituent elements. In addition, the descriptions and symbols repeated in the embodiments described below are sometimes omitted. In addition, the drawings used in the following description are all schematic drawings, and the relationship between the dimensions of the elements, the ratio of the elements, etc. shown in the drawings are not necessarily consistent with the actual ones. In addition, even between multiple drawings, the relationship between the dimensions of the elements, the ratio of the elements, etc. are not necessarily consistent.

[0043] In addition, in this specification, the descriptions of positions and directions such as up and down, left and right, front and back are as follows: Figure 1 The direction arrows are for reference only and do not refer to the actual position and direction under use. Figure 1 In the diagram, "U" indicates the upward direction (upper side), "D" indicates the downward direction (lower side), "LH" indicates the left direction (left side), "RH" indicates the right direction (right side), "F" indicates the front direction (front side), and "R" indicates the rear direction (rear side). The "upward and downward directions" refer to the directions of arrows U and D, and the "leftward and rightward directions" refer to the directions of arrows LH and RH. Furthermore, the "frontward and rearward directions" refer to the directions of arrows F and R.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the overall structure of a flow path switching valve 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this flow path switching valve 10, three valve units 20 are connected in the left-right direction, and other valve units 20 are stacked on the bottom of each valve unit 20. In other words, six valve units 20 are combined. Figure 4 This is a partially cutaway perspective view showing a flow path switching valve in which two valve units 20 are stacked and two valve elements are rotated by a single rotation drive unit. Figure 4 Equivalent to Figure 1 This figure shows the upper and lower valve units 20 removed. Figure 5 、 Figure 6 It is a partially cutaway perspective view showing one valve unit 20 .

[0045] The flow path switching valve 10 is used as a rotary three-way valve ( Figure 5 ) or four-way valve ( Figure 13 、 Figure 14 ).like Figures 4 to 8 As shown, the flow path switching valve 10 includes a valve unit 20 and a rotation drive unit 18 .

[0046] [Valve unit]

[0047] The valve unit 20 includes a valve body 14, a valve element 16, a first port 121, a second port 122, and a third port 123. Figure 5 In the example shown, the valve unit 20 is a three-way valve that switches between a state in which the first port 121 communicates with the third port 123 , a state in which the second port 122 communicates with the third port 123 , and a state in which the first port 121 , the second port 122 , and the third port 123 are not in communication with each other.

[0048] (Valve body)

[0049] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment, the valve body 14 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin, and a valve chamber 12 is formed inside. The valve chamber 12 is open at the top, and the valve core 16 and the sealing portion 38 described later are inserted from the top. A first inlet and outlet 31 and a second inlet and outlet 32, for example, which are opposite to each other and respectively allow fluid to enter and exit, are formed on the wall surface forming the valve chamber 12. As an example, the first inlet and outlet 31 is formed on the wall surface in the rear direction of the valve chamber 12, and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​is formed on the wall surface in the front direction of the valve chamber 12. That is, the first inlet and outlet 31 and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​are opposite to each other in the front-to-back direction of the valve chamber 12. In addition, a third inlet and outlet 33 is formed on the bottom surface of the valve chamber 12.

[0050] (Valve core)

[0051] exist Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10 In the embodiment, the valve core 16 is a spherical member made of, for example, synthetic resin and is rotatably disposed within the valve chamber 12. An insertion hole 16A is formed in the upper portion of the valve core 16, into which the valve shaft 28 of the rotation drive unit 18 is inserted. The valve shaft 28 and the insertion hole 16A engage with each other about the axial direction of the valve shaft 28, and the rotation of the valve shaft 28 is transmitted to the valve core 16. The insertion hole 16A extends through, for example, the flow path 36 of the valve core 16.

[0052] In order to selectively connect the first inlet 31, the second inlet 32, and the third inlet 33 of the valve body 14, in other words, to selectively switch the communication state of the first inlet 31, the second inlet 32, and the third inlet 33, a flow path (internal flow path) 36 is provided inside the valve core 16. Figure 9 As shown, the valve core 16 has a horizontal hole 36A extending from its outer periphery (side) to the flow path 36. Furthermore, the valve core 16 has a lower hole 36C extending from its outer periphery (lower portion) to the flow path 36. The flow path 36 communicates from the horizontal hole 36A to the lower hole 36C. Depending on the position of the valve core 16, the horizontal hole 36A can be aligned with either the first inlet 31 or the second inlet 32. When neither inlet or outlet is aligned with the horizontal hole 36A, the valve core 16 is in a closed state in close contact with the valve seat member 40 (described later).

[0053] like Figure 9 、 Figure 10 As shown, a rib 16B extending in a direction (vertical direction) toward the third port 33 is formed in the flow path 36 of the valve element 16. The rib 16B is, for example, a thin plate-shaped protrusion formed on the inner wall of the horizontal hole 36A in the flow path 36 of the valve element 16.

[0054] exist Figure 4 、 Figure 5 In the embodiment, a sealing portion 38 is provided between the valve core 16 and the first and second inlets 31 and 32, respectively, to seal the respective portions. The sealing portion 38 includes, for example, a valve seat component 40 and an O-ring 42. The valve seat component 40 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin and is formed into a ring shape having openings corresponding to the first and second inlets 31 and 32. The valve seat components 40 are respectively arranged around the first and second inlets 31 and 32 on the inner wall surface of the valve body 14 (the front and rear walls of the valve chamber 12). The valve core 16 is sandwiched between the two valve seat components 40 and is arranged so as to be able to rotate and slide freely while in contact with each valve seat component 40.

[0055] The valve seat member 40 and the valve body 14 are sealed, for example, airtightly and watertightly, respectively, by O-rings 42. The O-rings 42 are mounted in, for example, an O-ring groove (not shown) formed in the valve seat member 40.

[0056] As an example, the valve body 14 and the valve element 16 may be made of PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), the valve seat member 40 may be made of PTFE (fluororesin), and the O-ring 42 may be made of synthetic rubber.

[0057] (Rotation drive unit)

[0058] exist Figure 4 In the embodiment, the rotary drive unit 18 is connected to the valve unit 20 and is a device that rotates the valve core 16 to selectively switch the communication state of the first inlet and outlet 31, the second inlet and outlet 32, and the third inlet and outlet 33 through the flow path of the valve core 16. The rotary drive unit 18 is arranged above the valve body 14 in the upper valve unit 20. Specifically, a bracket 24 is fixed to the upper valve body 14, and a screw 26 ( Figure 1 ) is fixed with a rotation drive unit 18. The upward opening ( Figure 5 ) is enclosed by bracket 24 ( Figure 12 In other words, the bracket 24 has a shape that blocks the opening of the valve chamber 12. The bracket 24 is welded to the inner side of the opening of the valve chamber 12 in a nested and fitted manner. A protrusion 30 is provided on the bracket 24. This protrusion 30 faces or abuts against the edge surrounding the valve chamber 12 in the valve body 14. The protrusion 30 may also be a molten residue. Alternatively, the protrusion 30 may be provided on the valve body 14 instead of the bracket 24.

[0059] The rotary drive unit 18 is, for example, a geared motor. The rotary drive unit 18 is provided with a connector 50, which is connected to wiring for, for example, communication with a control unit and for power supply. The rotary drive unit 18 is coupled to a valve shaft 28 as an output shaft. The valve shaft 28 is inserted into a through hole 24A formed in the bracket 24. An O-ring 29 is mounted on the valve shaft 28. The watertightness between the valve shaft 28 and the through hole 24A is ensured by the O-ring 29. In addition, the lower end of the valve shaft 28 is inserted into the insertion hole 16A ( Figure 5 ).

[0060] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the plurality of rotary drive units 18 provided in each valve unit 20 is set to intersect the connection direction of the valve unit 20. Specifically, for example, the longitudinal direction of the plurality of rotary drive units 18 is set to be perpendicular to the connection direction of the valve unit 20. In other words, the transverse direction of the plurality of rotary drive units 18 corresponds to the connection direction of the valve unit 20. Furthermore, the angle formed between the longitudinal direction of the rotary drive units 18 and the connection direction of the valve unit 20 can be appropriately changed within a range in which adjacent rotary drive units 18 do not interfere with each other.

[0061] (First flow path, second flow path, third flow path)

[0062] exist Figures 4 to 6 In the figure, the first flow path 21 , the second flow path 22 , and the third flow path 23 are flow paths inside the first port 121 , the second port 122 , and the third port 123 , respectively.

[0063] The first flow path 21 is open at both ends, for example, and communicates with the first inlet and outlet 31 of the valve chamber 12. The first flow path 21 extends linearly in the left-right direction, for example. The first inlet and outlet 31 is connected to the middle of the first flow path 21. Thus, the first flow path 21 and the first inlet and outlet 31 form a substantially T-shape when viewed from above (see FIG. Figure 13 、 Figure 14 ).

[0064] The second flow path 22 is arranged in parallel with the first flow path 21 across the valve body 14, and is, for example, open at both ends and communicates with the second inlet and outlet 32. The second flow path 22 extends linearly in the left-right direction, for example. The second inlet and outlet 32 ​​is connected to the middle of the second flow path 22. Thus, the second flow path 22 and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​are formed into a substantially T-shape when viewed from above (see FIG. Figure 13 、 Figure 14 ).

[0065] like Figure 1 As shown, female connectors 51 and 52 are provided at one end of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22, respectively. Figure 5 、 Figure 6As shown, male connectors 61 and 62 are provided at the other ends of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22, respectively. The male connectors 61 and 62 are configured to be connectable to the female connectors 51 and 52. Annular grooves 61A and 62A are formed on the outer periphery of the male connectors 61 and 62. In addition, a pair of arc-shaped slits 51A and 52A are formed on the female connectors 51 and 52. Figure 13 、 Figure 14 As shown, the structure is as follows: the male connectors 61 and 62 are respectively embedded in the female connectors 51 and 52, and the clip 34 is inserted into the grooves 61A and 62A through the slits 51A and 52A to prevent it from falling off. The watertightness of the connection part of each connector is achieved by, for example, an O-ring 66. By having such a connector structure, the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 of one valve unit 20 can be connected to the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 of another valve unit 20 respectively to connect them (refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 14 ). In addition, this joint structure is an example, and any other joint structure can be used.

[0066] exist Figures 6 to 8 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 14 In the connection portion between the first flow path 21 and the first inlet and outlet 31, a first protrusion 71 is provided that protrudes from the first inlet and outlet 31 side toward the inside of the first flow path 21. The first protrusion 71 is, for example, an arc-shaped protrusion formed along the opening of the first inlet and outlet 31 relative to the first flow path 21. The range of the first protrusion 71 is set to, for example, be smaller than half of the first inlet and outlet 31 side of the inner circumference of the first flow path 21. One side of the first protrusion 71 in the left and right directions is set to be a concave surface formed by extending a part of the inner wall of the first flow path 21. In the example shown in the figure, the first protrusion 71 is provided on the left side of the first inlet and outlet 31. In addition, the first protrusion 71 may be provided on the right side of the first inlet and outlet 31, or may be provided on both the left and right sides of the first protrusion 71.

[0067] In addition, a second protrusion 72 that protrudes from the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​side toward the inside of the second flow path 22 is provided at the connection portion of the second flow path 22 with the second inlet and outlet 32. The second protrusion 72 is, for example, an arc-shaped protrusion formed along the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​relative to the opening of the second flow path 22. The range of the second protrusion 72 is set to, for example, be smaller than half of the inner circumference of the second flow path 22 on the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​side. One side of the second protrusion 72 in the left and right directions is set to be a concave surface formed by extending a part of the inner wall of the second flow path 22. In the example shown in the figure, the second protrusion 72 is provided on the left side of the second inlet and outlet 32. In addition, the second protrusion 72 may also be provided on the right side of the second inlet and outlet 32, or may be provided on both the left and right sides of the second protrusion 72.

[0068] like Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 9 As shown, a secondary flow path 46 closed by a cover body 44 may also be provided in the first flow path 21, for example, at a position opposite to the first inlet and outlet 31. The cover body 44 and the end of the secondary flow path 46 are sealed by welding, or water is stopped by a sealing member such as an O-ring 48. The secondary flow path 46 can also be utilized by removing the cover body 44. For example, a storage tank 54 can be connected to the secondary flow path 46. When the valve unit 20 is overlapped up and down, there are two secondary flow paths 46 on the upper and lower sides. The two secondary flow paths 46 can also be connected to a storage tank 54 provided with two connection ports ( Figure 2 In this case, the storage tank 54 may also have two storage chambers corresponding to the respective connection ports and separated from each other. In this way, even the same fluid but with different temperatures can be stored separately.

[0069] In addition, pumps 81 and 82 can be attached to the female connector 51 or male connector 61 of the first flow path 21 at the end of the flow path switching valve 10 and the female connector 52 or male connector 62 of the second flow path 22 at the end of the flow path switching valve 10, respectively. Figure 3 In the example shown, the pump 81 is mounted on the female connector 51 of the first flow path 21 in the upper valve unit 20 (see FIG. Figure 2 ). Furthermore, the pump 82 is mounted on the female connector 52 of the second flow path 22 in the upper valve unit 20. The pump 81 has a connector 91 that serves as an inlet and outlet for the fluid. Furthermore, the pump 82 has a connector 92 that serves as an inlet and outlet for the fluid. The pump 81 can supply fluid from another device to the first flow path 21 via the connector 91, or supply fluid from the first flow path 21 to another device. Furthermore, the pump 82 can supply fluid from another device to the second flow path 22 via the connector 92, or supply fluid from the second flow path 22 to another device.

[0070] exist Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 7 In the embodiment, the third flow path 23 is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33, and the third flow path 23 is open on the side opposite to the third inlet and outlet 33. Specifically, the third flow path 23 has a curved portion 23A. The third inlet and outlet 33 is located above the curved portion 23A. The end of the opening side of the third flow path 23 is located, for example, in front of the curved portion 23A, and protrudes forward relative to the second flow path 22. A male connector 64, for example, is provided at the end of the opening side of the third flow path 23, which can be connected to piping to other equipment.

[0071] like Figure 4 、 Figure 5As shown, a spherical recess 23B, for example, is provided in the curved portion 23A of the third flow path 23, at a location opposite the third inlet and outlet 33, i.e., below the third inlet and outlet 33. Recess 23B is formed into a roughly hemispherical shape. Recess 23B is recessed downward relative to a bottom 23C of the transverse flow path, which is located forward of the curved portion 23A. As a result, a portion of the fluid entering the third flow path 23 from the third inlet and outlet 33 first falls into recess 23B before entering the transverse flow path of the third flow path 23.

[0072] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, a through hole 23D is formed at the bottom of the recess 23B. The valve shaft 58 can be passed through the through hole 23D ( Figure 4 ). The valve shaft 58 and the through hole 23D are sealed with an O-ring 60. When no other valve units are overlapped below, Figure 4 Like the valve unit 20 on the lower side, for example, a structure is provided in which there is no through-hole 23D at the bottom of the recess 23B. In addition, even if a through-hole 23D is provided, the through-hole 23D may be closed by another component (for example, a closing portion 86). For example, the closing portion 86 may also include a temperature sensor 84. The temperature sensor 84 is supported on the closing portion 86, for example, and is arranged so that the top end is located in the third flow path 23. For example, an O-ring 88 is installed in the closing portion 86. The watertightness between the closing portion 86 and the through-hole 23D is ensured by the O-ring 88. By using the temperature sensor 84, the temperature in the third flow path 23 can be accurately measured.

[0073] (First port, second port, third port)

[0074] The first port 121 is connected to the first inlet and outlet 31 and is, for example, a cylindrical portion protruding from the valve body 14. The second port 122 is connected to the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​and is, for example, a cylindrical portion protruding from the valve body 14. The third port 123 is connected to the third inlet and outlet 33 and is, for example, a cylindrical portion protruding from the valve body 14. The female connectors 51 and 52 are respectively provided at one end of the first port 121 and the second port 122. The male connectors 61 and 62 are respectively provided at the other end of the first port 121 and the second port 122. In other words, a male connector 61 is provided at one end of the first port 121 and a female connector 51 is provided at the other end of the first port 121. In addition, a male connector 62 is provided at one end of the second port 122 and a female connector 52 is provided at the other end of the second port 122. A gap S ( Figure 13 、 Figure 14 ).

[0075] By connecting the first port 121 and the second port 122 of one valve unit 20 to the first port 121 and the second port 122 of another valve unit 20 , respectively, a plurality of valve units 20 can be connected in series.

[0076] [Overlap of valve units]

[0077] exist Figure 1 、 Figure 4 In this embodiment, it is possible to overlap and connect another valve unit 20 on the side opposite to the rotation drive unit 18 of one valve unit 20. The portion of the upper valve unit 20 that overlaps with the lower valve unit 20 is provided as a cover 68 that closes the valve chamber 12 of the lower valve unit 20. This closing structure is similar to Figure 12 The bracket 24 has a substantially similar structure for closing the valve chamber 12 , with the bottom of the upper valve body 14 being welded to the inner side of the opening of the valve chamber 12 in the lower valve body 14 in a nested and fitted state.

[0078] In addition, if Figure 4 As shown, a structure in which one valve unit 20 is stacked and connected to another valve unit 20, and the two valve cores 16 in the two valve units 20 are rotated by a single rotational drive unit 18. In this example, the valve shaft 28 of the upper valve unit 20 is connected to the valve shaft 58 of the lower valve unit 20 via a connecting shaft 56. The connecting shaft 56 connects the upper and lower valve shafts 28 and 58 through the interior of the upper valve core 16 and the longitudinal flow path of the third flow path 23. When the upper valve shaft 28 is rotated by the rotational drive unit 18, this rotation is transmitted to the lower valve shaft 58 via the connecting shaft 56, causing the upper and lower valve cores 16 to rotate synchronously.

[0079] Alternatively, the rotation drive section 18 may be provided in each of the upper and lower valve units 20 to control the rotation of the valve element 16 separately.

[0080] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the center-to-center distance W between the end of the first flow path 21 and the end of the second flow path 22 in one valve unit 20 may be equal to the center-to-center distance H between the ends of the first flow path 21 in the overlapping direction when one valve unit 20 is overlapped and connected to another valve unit 20. In other words, W = H.

[0081] like Figure 1 、 Figure 4 As shown, when the valve units 20 are overlapped, gaps S are also formed between the two first ports 121 and between the two second ports 122 of the overlapping valve units 20 .

[0082] (effect)

[0083] This embodiment is constructed as described above, and its function will be described below. Figure 4 In the flow path switching valve 10 according to this embodiment, the valve element 16 is rotated by the rotational drive unit 18, thereby selectively switching the communication state between the first inlet and outlet 31, the second inlet and outlet 32, and the third inlet and outlet 33 of the valve chamber 12 via the flow path 36 of the valve element 16. The first inlet and outlet 31 and the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​face each other across the valve chamber 12, and a horizontal hole 36A is formed in the valve element 16. Therefore, the flow path can be switched by rotating the valve element 16 180 degrees.

[0084] By respectively connecting the first port 121 and the second port 122 of one valve unit 20 to the first port 121 and the second port 122 of other valve units 20, a plurality of valve units 20 can be connected in series. Therefore, flow path switching valves of various specifications can be easily realized by combining the valve units 20, and the flow path switching valve 10 can be miniaturized.

[0085] Specifically, female connectors 51 and 52 are provided at one end of the first port 121 and the second port 122, respectively, and male connectors 61 and 62 are provided at the other end of the first port 121 and the second port 122. The male connectors 61 and 62 can be connected to the female connectors 51 and 52, respectively.

[0086] Therefore, for example, it is possible to easily connect the first ports 121 of one valve unit 20 to the first ports 121 of another valve unit 20, and the second ports 122 to the second ports 122 of another valve unit 20. Figure 15 As shown, at least four, for example, six valve units 20 may be connected in series. This makes it possible to easily realize flow path switching valves of a wider range of specifications.

[0087] exist Figure 1 For example, when W = H, when two overlapping valve units 20 are connected in the direction of the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 of the two overlapping valve units 20, it is possible not only to connect the first ports 121 to each other and the second ports 122 to each other, but also to connect the first port 121 to the second port 122. In other words, the two valve units 20 can be rotated 90 degrees relative to each other and connected. This further increases the degree of freedom in the combination of the valve units 20. Furthermore, the angle at which the two valve units 20 are rotated relative to each other can be an angle other than 90 degrees.

[0088] Furthermore, the fluid flowing from the valve chamber 12 into the third flow path 23 through the third inlet and outlet 33 passes through the curved portion 23A. Providing a spherical recessed portion 23B in the portion of the curved portion 23A of the third flow path 23 that faces the third inlet and outlet 33 reduces fluid resistance compared to a configuration in which the portion is curved without the recessed portion 23B. Consequently, pressure loss in the third flow path 23 can be suppressed.

[0089] Moreover, if Figure 9 、 Figure 10 As shown, when the flow path 36 of the valve core 16 is formed with a rib 16B extending in the direction toward the third port 33, the fluid flowing in the valve core 16 can be rectified. When the valve core 16 is assembled into the valve chamber 12, the direction of the valve core 16 can be easily adjusted by applying a force to the rib 16B.

[0090] In addition, if Figures 6 to 8 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 14 As shown, when a first protrusion 71 is provided at a connection portion of the first flow path 21 connected to the first inlet and outlet 31 of the valve chamber 12, the first protrusion 71 disrupts the flow of the fluid in the first flow path 21. Thus, the fluid flowing in the first flow path 21 can be guided toward the first inlet and outlet 31. Furthermore, when a second protrusion 72 is provided at a connection portion of the second flow path 22 connected to the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​of the valve chamber 12, the second protrusion 72 disrupts the flow of the fluid in the second flow path 22, thereby guiding the fluid flowing in the second flow path 22 toward the second inlet and outlet 32. In this way, the flow of fluid from the first flow path 21 and the second flow path 22 into the valve chamber 12 can be promoted.

[0091] Moreover, if Figure 1 、 Figure 4 As shown, by being able to overlap and connect another valve unit 20 on the side of one valve unit 20 opposite to the rotation drive unit 18 , the degree of freedom in combining the valve units 20 can be increased.

[0092] When the portion of one valve unit 20 that overlaps with another valve unit 20 is provided as the cover 68 for closing the valve chamber 12 of the other valve unit 20, when the one valve unit 20 is overlapped with the other valve unit 20, no additional parts are required for closing the valve chamber 12 of the other valve unit 20. Therefore, an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed, and workability when overlapping and connecting the valve units 20 can be improved.

[0093] When the two valve elements 16 in the two stacked valve units 20 are rotated by one rotation drive unit 18 , the number of parts and the cost can be reduced compared to providing the rotation drive units 18 in the two valve units 20 .

[0094] Furthermore, since a gap S is provided between the adjacent first port 121 and second port 122, heat transfer is less likely to occur between, for example, a high-temperature fluid flowing through the first port 121 and, for example, a low-temperature fluid flowing through the second port 122. Consequently, unintended temperature changes in the fluids can be suppressed.

[0095] Furthermore, since the longitudinal direction of the rotation drive unit 18 is set to intersect the connection direction of the valve unit 20 , the connection pitch of the valve unit 20 can be reduced and the increase in the outer dimensions of the flow path switching valve 10 can be suppressed.

[0096] Thus, according to this embodiment, various specifications of flow path switching valves can be easily realized, and the flow path switching valve can be miniaturized.

[0097] (Variation 1)

[0098] The valve unit 20 is not limited to a three-way valve, but may also be Figure 13 、 Figure 14 As shown, this is a four-way valve, for example. In this case, the valve core 16 has a horizontal hole 36B formed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis O1 of the valve core 16 and perpendicular to the horizontal hole 36A. The hole 36B extends from the outer periphery (side portion) of the valve core 16 and converges at the center of the horizontal hole 36A. By rotating the valve core 16 90 degrees, the state in which the first inlet 31 is connected to the third inlet 33 and the state in which the second inlet 32 ​​is connected to the third inlet 33 can be switched.

[0099] (Variation 2)

[0100] like Figure 15 As shown, in the flow path switching valve 10 according to the second modification, at least four valve units 20 may be connected in series. In this example, for example, six valve units 20 are connected in series. Figure 15 、 Figure 16 As shown, the protruding length of the first port 121 and the second port 122 of the valve unit 20 from the valve body 14 is greater than Figure 13 、 Figure 14 The protruding lengths of the first port 121 and the second port 122 are long. Figure 16 The void S ratio Figure 13 、 Figure 14 The gap S in is large.

[0101] In addition, as in this modified example, the auxiliary flow path 46 may not be provided at a position opposite to the first inlet and outlet 31 in the first flow path 21 ( Figure 13 、 Figure 14 etc.) structure.

[0102] [Other embodiments]

[0103] An example of the embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, but the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the above content, and it is apparent that various modifications other than the above can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0104] Although female connectors 51 and 52 are provided at one end of the first port 121 and the second port 122, and male connectors 61 and 62 connectable to the female connectors 51 and 52 are provided at the other end of the first port 121 and the second port 122, a configuration without such connector structures is also possible.

[0105] Although the concave portion 23B is provided in the curved portion 23A of the third flow path 23, such a concave portion 23B may be omitted. Although the rib 16B is formed in the flow path 36 of the valve element 16, such a rib 16B may be omitted.

[0106] Although the first protrusion 71 is provided at the connection portion connected to the first inlet and outlet 31 in the first flow path 21, and the second protrusion 72 is provided at the connection portion connected to the second inlet and outlet 32 ​​in the second flow path 22, either the first protrusion 71 or the second protrusion 72 may be provided, or neither the first protrusion 71 nor the second protrusion 72 may be provided ( Figure 15 、 Figure 16 ).

[0107] Although one valve unit 20 can be overlapped and connected to another valve unit 20 on the side opposite to the rotation drive unit 18, another component may be present between the two valve units 20. Alternatively, such connection may not be possible.

[0108] Although the center-to-center distance W between the end of the first flow path 21 and the end of the second flow path 22 in one valve unit 20 is equal to the center-to-center distance H between the ends of the first flow path 21 in the overlapping direction when one valve unit 20 is overlapped and connected to another valve unit 20 (W=H), the center-to-center distance W may be different from the center-to-center distance H. Furthermore, in the above-described flow path switching valve, although the valve units 20 are overlapped in two layers, three or more layers may be overlapped.

[0109] The disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-27791 filed on February 24, 2023 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0110] All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described in this specification are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, or technical standard were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A flow path switching valve, wherein: It has a valve unit and a rotation drive unit, The valve unit comprises: a valve body having a valve chamber formed therein, a first inlet and a second inlet for fluid inlet and outlet formed on a wall surface forming the valve chamber, and a third inlet formed on a bottom surface of the valve chamber; a valve core rotatably disposed in the valve chamber and having a flow path formed therein; a first port communicating with the first inlet and outlet; a second port arranged in parallel with the first port across the valve body and communicating with the second inlet and outlet; and a third port communicating with the third inlet and outlet, the third port being open on a side opposite to the third inlet and outlet. The rotation drive unit is connected to the valve unit and rotates the valve element to selectively switch the communication states of the first inlet and outlet, the second inlet and outlet, and the third inlet and outlet through the flow path of the valve element. By connecting the first port and the second port of the valve unit to the first port and the second port of another valve unit, respectively, a plurality of the valve units can be connected in series.

2. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein: A female connector is provided at one end of the first port and the second port, respectively. A male connector that is connectable to the female connector is provided at the other end of each of the first port and the second port.

3. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein: A gap is provided between adjacent first ports and second ports.

4. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein One of the valve units is connected in series with the other valve units. The longitudinal direction of the plurality of rotation drive parts provided in each valve unit is set to a direction intersecting with the connection direction of the valve unit.

5. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein The other valve unit can be connected in a stacked manner on the side of one valve unit opposite to the rotation drive portion.

6. The flow path switching valve according to claim 5, wherein: One of the valve units is connected to another valve unit in an overlapping manner. The two valve elements in the two valve units are rotated by one rotation drive unit.

7. The flow path switching valve according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: At least four of the valve units are connected in series.

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