Multi-port valve for controlling a medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a multi-port valve for controlling a medium, in particular in a refrigeration circuit of a refrigeration system with heat pump function, comprising: a drive; a valve body, the stroke movement of which along the axis can be controlled by an actuating element of the driver; a valve body chamber facing the driver, into which the valve body can be moved at least partially, the valve body being tubular and extending along a travel axis, the valve body, in a first end position of the stroke movement, passes through at least one first pressure chamber between the inlet and the outlet and through at least one further pressure chamber between the inlet and at least one further outlet, with at least one seal being associated with each pressure chamber for abutting the valve body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-port valve for controlling a medium, and in particular to a multi-port valve for controlling a medium in a refrigeration circuit of a refrigeration system with a heat pump function. Background Art

[0002] DE 10 2017 102 841 A1 discloses a multi-port valve for controlling a refrigeration circuit of a refrigeration system with a heat pump function. The multi-port valve comprises a housing having an inlet connected to a fluid channel having a regulating chamber in the housing. In addition, the housing comprises a first outlet opening and a second outlet opening, which are also connected to the regulating chamber. A rotary slide valve arrangement is provided in the regulating chamber, the rotary slide valve arrangement comprising a first control disk and a second control disk. At least the first control disk of the rotary slide valve arrangement is actuated by a drive so that the first outlet opening and / or the second outlet opening can be controlled as required. The control disk of the rotary slide valve arrangement is made of a wear-resistant and low-friction material, such as ceramic. The requirements for simple design, low actuation force and reduced construction volume are constantly increasing. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The invention is based on the following object: to propose a multi-port valve for controlling a medium, in particular a medium in a refrigeration circuit of a refrigeration system with heat pump functionality, which multi-port valve has a simple design and in which the valve can be actuated by low actuation forces.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a multi-port valve for controlling a medium, in particular a medium in a refrigeration circuit of a refrigeration system with heat pump functionality, which has a simple design and can be actuated with low actuation forces.

[0005] This problem is solved by a multi-port valve comprising a drive and a valve body, whose travel motion along a travel axis can be controlled by an actuating element of the drive. Furthermore, the multi-port valve includes a valve body chamber facing the drive, into which the valve body can at least partially move. The valve body is tubular and extends along the travel axis. In at least one end position of the travel motion, the valve body passes through at least one first pressure chamber between an inlet and a first outlet and extends into or through at least one second pressure chamber between the inlet and at least one further outlet. At least one seal is assigned to each pressure chamber for contact with the valve body. This tubular design of the valve body, which communicates with the first and at least one second pressure chamber, allows for a simple and space-saving arrangement. Furthermore, this valve body achieves the low actuation forces required to move the tubular valve body from one end position to the other and / or to an intermediate position for individual actuation of the pressure chambers.

[0006] The tubular valve body preferably has at least two flow openings, a first flow opening being assigned to the inlet, and at least one second flow opening being provided in the valve body, which is assigned to one outlet and / or at least one additional outlet. This design makes it easy to connect the inlet to the first or second outlet by activating the stroke movement of the valve body. It is also possible to connect the inlet to both the first and second outlets for mixed operation.

[0007] Preferably, stops are provided during the stroke movement of the valve body into the first end position and during the stroke movement of the valve body into the second or further end position. This allows a defined starting position of the valve body to be adopted, in particular the lifting and lowering movement from this starting position being controlled by the drive.

[0008] Preferably, a pressure bypass is provided between the valve body and the valve body chamber. This allows for pressure equalization, reducing the actuation force of the actuator when the valve body moves from a first end position to the other end position. The tubular design of the valve body with at least a first and a second passage opening allows the pressure of the medium to be present in the valve body chamber via the at least one passage opening, so that practically no pressure differences counteract the opening and closing movements or movements of the valve body.

[0009] The seal assigned to at least one of the pressure chambers is preferably designed as a radial seal resting against the outer circumferential portion of the tubular valve body. This allows for sufficient sealing while also enabling the valve body to be actuated with reduced actuation force. Furthermore, the radial seal resting against the outer circumferential portion of the valve body can provide guidance. Alternatively, at least one seal assigned to the pressure chamber can be designed as an axial seal, which can contact the end face of the tubular valve body. Alternatively, at least one radial seal and at least one axial seal can be provided, with the at least one radial seal and at least one axial seal being in sealing contact with the tubular valve body in at least one of the end positions. For example, a central seal can be designed as a radial seal surrounding the valve body, while at least one seal disposed on the end face of the valve body can be designed as an axial seal. Another seal assigned to the opposite end face of the tubular valve body can be designed as either an axial seal or a radial seal.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment, a first seal is provided between the actuator and the first pressure chamber, a second seal is provided between the first and second pressure chambers, and a third seal is provided between the inlet and the second pressure chamber. This simplifies the design of a multi-port valve, in which the inlet can be connected to two outlets as required. Preferably, the series is provided such that the first outlet is provided downstream of the inlet, and the second outlet is provided downstream of the first outlet.

[0011] In the above-described arrangement of the inlet, first outlet, and second outlet, it is preferably provided that the tubular valve body has a length such that, in the first end position, the valve body is guided within the first, second, and third seals, and, in the second end position, the valve body is guided only within the first and second seals. This arrangement has the advantage of shortening the overall length of the multi-port valve structure. Alternatively, it may be provided that the valve body has a length such that, in the first end position, the valve body is guided within the first and second seals and protrudes relative to the third seal, and, in the second end position, the valve body is guided only within the second and third seals and protrudes relative to the first seal. In this embodiment, the valve body can be shorter than in the embodiment described above.

[0012] It can also be provided that the valve body has a length such that: the valve body is guided by the second seal in the first end position and the second end position, and preferably, the second seal is designed as a radial seal, the first seal and the third seal are designed as radial seals and / or axial seals, wherein the valve body is displaced (lifted) relative to the first seal in the first end position and is raised relative to the third seal in the second end position.

[0013] Alternatively, it can be provided that the valve body has a length such that: in a first end position the valve body is guided in the first and second seals and supported against the third seal in an axially sealing manner, and in a second end position the valve body is guided only in the first and second seals and is lifted off the third seal.

[0014] In the above-described arrangement of the inlet, in the first and second outlets, it can alternatively be provided that the tubular valve body has a length such that the valve body is guided within the first to third seals in both the first and second end positions. In this arrangement, further passage openings are preferably provided in the circumferential wall of the valve body and / or on the end faces of the valve body to enable control of the various switching positions.

[0015] According to an alternative embodiment, a first seal is provided between the driver and the first pressure chamber, a second seal is provided between the inlet and the first pressure chamber, and a third seal is provided between the inlet and the second pressure chamber. This alternative embodiment allows, for example, the inlet to be positioned between the first and second pressure chambers. In particular, this means that only transversely arranged linear connections can be provided at the connection point providing the at least two pressure chambers.

[0016] In the above-described embodiment, it is preferably provided that the valve body extends in each case from a passage opening assigned to the inlet in the direction of at least one outlet toward both sides and that the valve body is guided within at least three seals, in particular the valve body is guided within at least four seals, which are preferably radial seals.

[0017] According to another preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the tubular valve body is circular or oval when viewed in cross section. In particular, the oval embodiment has the advantage that no anti-rotation device, which can be arranged in the valve body chamber, is required.

[0018] According to another preferred embodiment of the multi-port valve, a first valve chamber sleeve is provided in association with the actuator, extending in a direction opposite to the actuator and surrounding the valve body. This first valve chamber sleeve is associated with the first pressure chamber, and a first seal is housed between the first valve chamber sleeve and the actuator, sealing the pressure chamber to the actuator. This arrangement has the advantage that the first seal is housed within the first valve chamber sleeve and can be inserted into the insertion opening of the connection point portion along with the actuator and the tubular valve body.

[0019] According to another preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the first valve chamber sleeve extends through the first pressure chamber and accommodates a second seal, which is arranged opposite the first seal adjacent to the first pressure chamber. This allows the chamber through which the valve body extends to be sealed on both sides, and the outlet associated with the first pressure chamber to be actuated depending on the position of the valve body passage opening.

[0020] Furthermore, it is preferred that the second seal separates the first pressure chamber from the second pressure chamber, or that the second seal separates the first pressure chamber or the second pressure chamber from the inlet. This depends on the position of the inlet relative to the first and second pressure chambers. This embodiment has the advantage that only one seal needs to be provided, which forms a seal in the direction of both the first and second pressure chambers, or in an alternative embodiment, the seal forms a seal between the first pressure chamber and the inlet.

[0021] According to another preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the first valve chamber sleeve is adjacent to the second valve chamber sleeve extending through the second pressure chamber, and the first valve chamber sleeve and the second valve chamber sleeve are separated by a common second seal, which can achieve a simplified design.

[0022] Furthermore, it can be preferably provided that the second valve chamber sleeve has a third sealing element opposite to the first valve chamber sleeve, the third sealing element sealing the second pressure chamber relative to the inlet. In this way, the second valve chamber sleeve, which can be inserted into the second pressure chamber, can seal the valve body extending through the second pressure chamber.

[0023] According to an alternative embodiment, it can be provided that the second valve chamber sleeve has a third sealing element opposite to the first valve chamber sleeve, which seals off the second pressure chamber, to which the inlet leads, from the third pressure chamber, which leads to the second outlet. This embodiment is preferably provided if the inlet is arranged between the two outlets.

[0024] Advantageously, it can be provided that the first valve chamber sleeve and at least the second valve chamber sleeve are designed in one part or in multiple parts, and that at least one radial seal is accommodated in the interface between the at least two valve chamber sleeves or in the interface of the multi-part valve chamber sleeve or in the interface between the first valve chamber sleeve and the actuator. This arrangement allows the multi-port valve to form a so-called cartridge housing together with the valve chamber sleeves, which can be fully inserted into the insertion opening of the connection point.

[0025] Furthermore, it can preferably be provided that the first valve chamber sleeve and the at least one further valve chamber sleeve are connected to each other in a non-detachable manner. This allows the creation of a structural unit in which the actuator is fixedly positioned together with the valve body to the valve chamber sleeve, thus allowing a defined positioning in the connection point. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The invention and its further advantageous and further embodiments are described and explained in more detail below with reference to the examples shown in the drawings. According to the invention, the features from the description and the drawings can be used alone or in any combination. The drawings show:

[0027] i. Figure 1 a schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-port valve in a first end position,

[0028] ii. Figure 2 according to Figure 1 a schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-port valve in a second end position,

[0029] iii. Figure 3 according to Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-port valve in an intermediate position,

[0030] iv. Figure 4 Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve is shown in a first end position,

[0031] v. Figure 5 according to Figure 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve in a second end position,

[0032] vi. Figure 6 according to Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of in an intermediate position,

[0033] vii. Figure 7 according to Figure 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve in a first end position,

[0034] viii. Figure 8 like Figure 7 A perspective view of the front end of the valve body is shown.

[0035] ix. Figure 9 according to Figure 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve in a second end position,

[0036] x. Figure 10 according to Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of in an intermediate position,

[0037] xi. Figure 11 exist Figure 4A schematic cross-sectional view of a further alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve shown in FIG. 1 in a first end position,

[0038] xii. Figure 12 according to Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a further alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve in a first end position,

[0039] xiii. Figure 13 according to Figure 12 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of in a second end position,

[0040] xiv. Figure 14 according to Figure 12 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of in an intermediate position,

[0041] xv. Figure 15 Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of a further alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve shown in FIG. 1 in a first end position,

[0042] xvi. Figure 16 according to Figure 15 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of in a second end position,

[0043] xvii. Figure 17 according to Figure 15 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve in an intermediate position,

[0044] xviii. Figure 18 Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of a further alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve is shown in a first end position,

[0045] xix. Figure 19 according to Figure 18 a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a multi-port valve in a second end position,

[0046] xx. Figure 20 according to Figure 18 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a multi-port valve in an intermediate position, and

[0047] xxi. Figure 21 Schematic diagram of the controllable volume flow using a multi-port valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Figure 1A schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-port valve 11 is shown. The multi-port valve 11 can be used to control the refrigeration circuit of a refrigeration system having a heat pump function. The multi-port valve 11 is designed as a three-way valve, for example, and includes an inlet 12, a first outlet 14, and a second outlet 15. Alternatively, the multi-port valve 11 may have multiple inlets and / or outlets.

[0049] As an example, the multi-port valve 11 is shown in an installed position in a connection point portion 16. This connection point portion 16 includes an insertion opening 17 into which the multi-port valve 11 can be inserted and connected to the connection point portion 16, in particular being fastened in a removable threaded connection. An inlet opening 21 and a first outlet opening 22 and a second outlet opening 23 are provided in the connection point portion 16. The inlet opening 21, the first outlet opening 22, and the second outlet opening 23 open into the insertion opening 17. This insertion opening 17 also forms a regulating chamber that connects the inlet 12 and the first outlet 14 and the second outlet 15 to one another.

[0050] The multi-port valve 11 includes a valve housing 25. The valve housing 25 is connected to an actuator 27. The actuator 27 is designed as an electrically controllable actuator 27. For this purpose, a connection 28 is provided. This connection 28 can be used for power supply and / or electronic data transmission in the actuator 27 (not shown in detail). The actuator 27 is designed, for example, as a separating cap motor. Preferably, the electronics of the actuator 27 enable precise control of the stroke movement of the valve body 37. This actuation can be step-by-step or continuous. This allows for control and adoption of defined stroke positions of the valve body 37. The actuator 27 includes a stationary stator 31 and a rotor 32 that can be driven to rotate. A separating cap 33 is arranged between the stator 31 and the rotor 32. The separating cap 33 is arranged in a media-tight manner at the connection point 16 or the insertion opening 17. The rotor 32 rotationally drives the actuating element 34. The adjustment element 34 has a threaded portion 35 on its outer circumference. The adjustment element 34 is firmly positioned axially to the rotor 32 and rotates about its longitudinal axis. Alternatively, a proportional magnetic drive can also be provided, in particular with a magnetic armature position controller or other electrically controllable drive.

[0051] The actuating element 34 extends through the valve housing 25. In particular, the actuating element 34 is positioned in the valve body chamber 36. The actuating element 34 is connected to the valve body 37. The valve body 37 is moved along the longitudinal axis of the valve body 37 by the adjusting element 34 or the actuator 27. The valve body 37 can be moved by the driver 27 from, for example, Figure 1 The first end position 39 shown in FIG. Figure 2In addition, the actuator 27 also enables the valve body 37 to be moved to one or more intermediate positions 42, which are shown in e.g. Figure 3 middle.

[0052] The valve body 37 is secured against rotation relative to the control element 34 by the anti-rotation device 44. The anti-rotation device 44 is movable within the valve body chamber 36. For example, a flattened portion or a spring is provided on the outer circumference of the anti-rotation device 44, and the flattened portion or the spring is guided in a groove of the valve body chamber 36.

[0053] A pressure bypass 46 is provided between the valve body 37 and the valve body chamber 36. The pressure bypass 46 is formed between the threaded portion 35 of the actuating element 34 and the anti-rotation device 44, for example, as a flattening on the actuating element 34. The pressure bypass 46 may also be formed between the anti-rotation device 44 and the valve body chamber 36.

[0054] The valve body 37 is tubular. The valve body 37 can be made of plastic. The valve body 37 can also be made of light metal alloys and other materials suitable for use with various refrigerants. One end portion of the valve body 37 is securely connected to the control element 34 or the anti-rotation device 44. The valve body 37 has at least two through-openings 48, 49. In the example of embodiment, the first passage opening 48 is arranged at the end face end of the tubular valve body 37. The other passage opening 49 is arranged opposite and aligned in the radial direction and is arranged in the circumferential wall. The second passage opening 49 is formed, for example, by a circular recess. One or more recesses distributed around the circumference can be provided on the tubular valve body 37, which recesses form the passage opening 49. The passage openings 48, 49 can be designed, for example, as circular openings. The passage openings 48, 49 can also be polygonal or rectangular. Furthermore, at least one passage opening 48, 49 can have a drop-shaped profile or inflow cross section so that with the stroke movement a change in the volume flow of the medium, in particular a reduction or increase, is released for outflow or inflow into the valve body 37 or a change in the volume flow of the medium can be controlled.

[0055] A first valve chamber sleeve 51 is arranged on the valve housing 25 opposite the actuator 27. The first valve chamber sleeve 51 is tubular in shape and surrounds the valve body 37. The first valve chamber sleeve 51 is preferably attached to the valve housing 25 in a detachable manner. A first seal 52 is provided between the valve housing 25 and the first valve chamber sleeve 51. This first seal 52 comprises, for example, a sealing ring 53 directly adjacent to the outer circumferential portion of the valve body 37. For example, this sealing ring 53 can be made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The sealing ring 53 can be surrounded by an elastomeric seal 54.

[0056] This arrangement can provide a seal between the actuator 27 and the valve body 37, and the actuator 27 can be at least partially retracted into the valve body chamber 36. In addition, a seal can be formed between the first pressure chamber 56, which is preferably formed in the connection point portion 16, in particular, the insertion opening 17, and the actuator 27. At the same time, the detachable connection of the first valve chamber sleeve 51 to the valve housing 25 allows for easy fixation of the first seal 52. The first seal 52 is preferably designed as a radial circumferential seal that engages with the outer circumferential portion of the tubular valve body 37.

[0057] In accordance with Figure 1 In this embodiment, the valve body 37 protrudes freely relative to the first valve chamber sleeve 51. The multiport valve 11, including the actuator 27, the first valve chamber sleeve 51, and the protruding valve body 37, is inserted into the connection point 16 as an installation unit. In the connection point 16, a first pressure chamber 56 is assigned to, for example, the second outlet 15. A second pressure chamber 57 is arranged adjacent to the first pressure chamber 56. This second pressure chamber 57 is assigned to, for example, the first outlet 14. This second pressure chamber 57 is preferably positioned between the first pressure chamber 56 or the second outlet 15 and the inlet 12. A second seal 58 is preferably provided between the first and second pressure chambers 56, 57. This second seal 58 is preferably inserted into an insertion opening 17 separate from the multiport valve 11 and secured to the connection point 16, for example, by a fastening element 61, particularly a threaded ring. This seals the first pressure chamber 56 from the second pressure chamber 57.

[0058] Furthermore, a third seal 62 is inserted into the insertion opening 17. This third seal 62 can be fixed in the insertion opening 17 by means of a fastening element 61 in the same manner as the second seal 58. The third seal 62 seals the second pressure chamber 57 from the inlet 12 and the first outlet 14.

[0059] To position the multi-port valve 11 in the insertion opening 17 of the connection point 16, the valve body 37 is preferably moved to the first end position 39. This first end position 39 means that the valve body 37 has been moved by the actuator 27 to the maximum stroke position relative to the valve housing 25. The valve body 37 is first inserted into the second seal 58 and then into the third seal 62. Subsequently, the actuator 27 is securely connected to the connection point 16 via a preferably detachable threaded connection. For example, an axial seal 64 is provided at this interface.

[0060] The multi-port valve 11 is shown with the valve body 37 in the first switching position in the first end position 39 in the connection point portion 16. In this first switching position, the inlet 12 is connected to the first passage opening 48 and the second passage opening 49 is connected to the second outlet 15, so that the volume flow of the medium is completely transferred from the inlet 12 to the second outlet 15. The tubular valve body 37 is fully extended between the second seal 58 and the third seal 62, so that the first outlet 14 is blocked.

[0061] In this embodiment of the multi-port valve 11, it can be provided that the length of the valve body 37 is designed so that, when the valve body 37 is positioned in the first end position 39 of the valve body 37, the valve body 37 extends from the first seal 52 along the second seal 58 into the third seal 62. Therefore, the valve body 37 is guided in the first seal 52, the second seal 58, and the third seal 62.

[0062] The first seal 52 is understood to be a seal which is arranged between the first pressure chamber and the valve housing.

[0063] The second seal 58 is understood to be a seal which is arranged between the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber or a seal which separates the first pressure chamber from the second pressure chamber.

[0064] The third seal 62 is understood to be a seal positioned between the inlet and the downstream pressure chamber.

[0065] Because according to Figure 1 With this arrangement of the multi-port valve 11, the pressure of the medium applied to the inlet 12 can also be applied to the valve body chamber 36 via the pressure bypass 46. On this basis, the valve body 37 is Figure 1 The first end position 39 is moved to according to Figure 2 The second end position 41 requires a reduction in the actuation force of the actuator 27 .

[0066] In this second end position 41, the free end face of the valve body 37 is guided out of the third sealing element 62. The end face of the valve body 37 is arranged in the second pressure chamber 57. From this second pressure chamber 57, the tubular valve body 37 extends continuously to the first sealing element 52. As a result, the second outlet 15 is blocked. A free passage is formed between the inlet 12 and the first outlet 14. The second sealing element 58 prevents the medium from flowing from the second pressure chamber 57 into the first pressure chamber 56.

[0067] The valve body 37 preferably has an insertion slope at the front end portion of the valve body 37 so that the front end portion of the valve body 37 can be firmly reinserted into the third sealing member 62 .

[0068] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 1 A further schematic cross-sectional view of the multi-port valve 11 is shown, in which the valve body 37 is arranged in an intermediate position 42. In this intermediate position 42, it can be provided that the inlet 12 supplies medium to the first outlet 14 and the second outlet 15. For example, it can be provided that the end-facing end of the valve body 37 again projects relative to the third seal 62. However, at the same time, a stroke position is assumed in which the passage opening 49 is still positioned within the first pressure chamber 56, so that a volume flow can flow into the second outlet 15.

[0069] Depending on the arrangement of the passage opening 48 assigned to the first pressure chamber 56 and the end-face end of the valve body 37 , the volume flow of the first outlet 14 and / or the second outlet 15 can be controlled and distributed in percentages.

[0070] In this embodiment, the multi-port valve 11 can be designed as an assembly, which also includes a second seal 58 and a third seal 62, each of which can be separately inserted and fixed in the connection point portion 16. A fastening element 61 for the seals 58 and 62 can also be included.

[0071] according to Figures 1 to 3 In an alternative embodiment of the multi-port valve 11, which is not shown in detail, it can be provided that, for example, the second seal 58 and the third seal 62 form a second valve chamber sleeve 66. This second valve chamber sleeve 66 can be inserted into the second pressure chamber 57 and comprises the second seal 58 and the third seal 62 at the respective ends. This second valve chamber sleeve 66 can be inserted into the connection point part 16 in a manner separate from the multi-port valve 11 and can be fixed in the connection point part 16. Preferably, in each case, the second valve chamber sleeve 66 comprises a seal 67 located outside the second seal 58 and the third seal 62, which is aligned with the insertion opening 17.

[0072] according to Figures 1 to 3In a further embodiment of the multiport valve 11, which is not shown in greater detail, it can be provided that the first valve chamber sleeve 51 extends along the first pressure chamber 56. In this case, the first seal 52 and the second seal 58 are fixed to the first valve chamber sleeve 51. The third seal 62 can be separately inserted into the connection point 16 and removably fixed by means of a fastening element 61.

[0073] Figures 4 to 6 An alternative embodiment of the multi-port valve 11 according to the above embodiment is shown. In this embodiment of the multi-port valve 11, the first valve chamber sleeve 51 and the second valve chamber sleeve 66 may be connected to each other, and the first valve chamber sleeve 51 may be attached to the valve housing 25. In this embodiment, it is preferably provided that the second seal 58 is positioned and fixed in the interface between the first valve chamber sleeve 51 and the second valve chamber sleeve 66. At the same time, a seal 67 is provided in the interface between the first valve chamber sleeve 51 and the second valve chamber sleeve 66 on the outer circumferential portion of the interface. The seal 67 is accommodated in the first valve chamber sleeve 51 or the second valve chamber sleeve 66, preferably in a circumferential groove in the first valve chamber sleeve 51 or the second valve chamber sleeve 66, depending on whether the first valve chamber sleeve 51 surrounds the exterior of the second valve chamber sleeve 66 or the second valve chamber sleeve 66 surrounds the exterior of the first valve chamber sleeve 51. At the free end face end of the second valve chamber sleeve 66 , a seal 67 is also provided externally and circumferentially.

[0074] Thus, the multi-port valve 11 includes the actuator 27, the valve housing 25, the valve body 37, and the cartridge housing 68, which is composed of at least the first valve chamber sleeve 51 and the second valve chamber sleeve 66, with the second seal 58 disposed between the first valve chamber sleeve 51 and the second valve chamber sleeve 66, and the third seal 62 disposed at the end surface of the second valve chamber sleeve 66. Therefore, the multi-port valve 11 having the cartridge housing 68 can be inserted into the insertion opening 17 of the connection point portion 16 as a single unit.

[0075] Also refer to Figures 1 to 3 The working mode of the multi-port valve 11 is described in detail.

[0076] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of another alternative embodiment of the multi-port valve 11 of the above-described embodiment is shown. This embodiment differs from the above-described embodiment in the design of the valve body 37. In this embodiment, it can be provided that the valve body 37 can be further shortened compared to the above-described embodiment. This is due to the fact that the through-openings 49 radially arranged in the circumferential wall of the valve body 37 in the above-described embodiment are omitted. In this valve body 37, it can be provided that at least one passage opening 49 is formed at the end face end of the valve body 37 connected to the actuating element 34. As in Figure 8 As can be seen in the perspective view of FIG, the passage opening 49 is, for example, star-shaped. For example, at least one mesh 69 or at least one rib, preferably two or three meshes or ribs, may be provided, with at least one through-opening 49 or through-openings 49 extending between the meshes or ribs. Thus, the circumferential wall of the valve body 37 is completely closed.

[0077] from Figure 7 The illustrated view shows the shortened length of the valve body 37. On the other hand, one end face end of the valve body 37, which is provided with the passage opening 48, is positioned in the third seal 62. The opposite end of the valve body 37 can end between the first pressure chamber 56 and the second pressure chamber 57. The medium can enter the first pressure chamber 56 directly from the inlet 12 and then enter the second outlet 15 through the end opening 49 pointing in the direction of the actuator 27.

[0078] Figure 9 Shown according to Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the multi-port valve 11 in the second end position 41 of the valve body 37 . Figure 10 Shown according to Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-port valve 11 , wherein the valve body 37 is arranged in an intermediate position 42 .

[0079] The protruding design of the valve body 37 with two opposing end openings 48 , 49 can also be used in the above-described embodiment.

[0080] Figure 11 Shown according to Figures 1 to 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of the multi-port valve 11 of the above embodiment. The multi-port valve 11 is different from the multi-port valve 11 in the design of the third sealing member 62 according to the embodiment. Figures 4 to 6 In the implementation method. Figures 1 to 10 In the embodiment, the third seal 62 is designed as a radial seal. Figure 11In the multi-port valve 11, the third seal 62 is designed as an axial seal. It can be provided that the seal 62 points in the direction of the end face of the valve body 37. When the valve body 37 is transferred to the first end position 39 by a lifting movement, the end face annular surface of the valve body 37 comes into sealing contact with the axial seal 62. The axial seal 62 can be arranged in a retaining ring 65 and securely held in the retaining ring 65, for example, by screws. The receiving ring 65 can be inserted, pressed into, or integrated into the second valve chamber sleeve 66. The third seal 62 can be surrounded by an outer circumferential seal 67. In this embodiment of the multi-port valve 11, it can be provided that during the stroke movement between the first end position 39 and the second end position 41, the valve body 37 is guided by the radial first seal 52 and the radial second seal 58 and rests in a sealing manner on the third seal 62 designed as an axial seal in the first end position 39.

[0081] about Figure 11 For other designs and implementations of the multi-port valve 11, please refer to Figures 1 to 10 .

[0082] The third seal 62 designed as an axially aligned seal can also be used according to Figures 1 to 3 The embodiment of the multi-port valve 11 and the alternative embodiments described in connection therewith are described.

[0083] Figures 12 to 14 A further alternative embodiment of the multi-port valve 11 is shown. Figure 12 The multi-port valve 11 is shown in a first end position 39 . Figure 13 The second end position 41 is shown according to Figure 12 The multi-port valve 11, and Figure 14 Shown in the middle position 42 according to Figure 12 In this embodiment, it can be provided that the tubular valve body 37 corresponds to the multi-port valve 11. Figures 7 to 10 The other structure of this embodiment also corresponds to the embodiment according to Figures 7 to 10 Implementation method. Figures 12 to 14Unlike the present embodiment, it is possible to provide that the first seal 52 and the third seal 62 are each designed as axial seals. This means that one end face of the valve body 37 is in sealing contact with the first seal 52 or the third seal 62 in the first end position 39 and the second end position 41. In between, the second seal 58 is designed as a radial seal, and the valve body 37 is guided in a displaceable manner during the travel movement between the first end position 39 and the second end position 41. As an alternative to this embodiment, it is also possible to provide that the first seal 52 is designed as a radial seal, while only the third seal 62 is designed as an axial seal. Interchangeable arrangements can also be provided.

[0084] Figures 15 to 17 An alternative embodiment of the multiport valve 11 to the above-described embodiment is shown. In this embodiment of the multiport valve 11 , it can be provided that the tubular valve body 37 has a longer extension than is the case in the above-described embodiment. Figure 15 In, with Figure 4 Similarly, the valve body 37 is positioned in the first end position 39 . Therefore, the medium flows from the inlet 12 through the valve body 37 and into the second outlet 15 via the passage opening 49 . Figure 16 The multiport valve 11 is shown with the valve body 37 in a second end position 41. In this second end position 41, the inlet 12 is connected to the first outlet 14. The outflow of the medium to the second outlet 15 is blocked.

[0085] In this embodiment, it can be provided that, due to the greater length of the valve body 37, the valve body 37 is guided into the first seal 52, the second seal 58 and the third seal 62 during the stroke movement of the valve body 37 from the first end position 39 to the second end position 41. As a result, the valve body 37 does not escape from the third seal 62. This longer version of the valve body 37 can also be provided in the alternative embodiment described above, which is not shown in greater detail.

[0086] Figure 17 Shown as Figure 15 and Figure 16 The multiport valve 11 is shown with the valve body 37 in the intermediate position 42 . Thus, a volume flow of a medium entering the through-opening 48 of the valve body 37 via the inlet 12 can flow out via the further through-opening 49 into the first and second pressure chambers 56 , 57 .

[0087] Figures 18 to 20 FIG. 1 shows another alternative embodiment of a multi-port valve 11. The multi-port valve 11 is adjusted relative to the valve body 37 so that at least one transversely arranged inlet 12 and also transversely arranged outlets 14, 15 are provided in the connection point portion 16. Figures 1 to 10、 Figures 15 to 17 In the embodiment shown, the inlet 12 is provided on the end face of the connection point portion 16, while the outlets 14, 15 are arranged on the side wall at right angles to the inlet 12. The connectors 14, 15 may be arranged on the same side wall as the inlet 12 or on the opposite side wall.

[0088] In accordance with Figures 18 to 20 In the above-described embodiment, it is possible that outlets 14, 15 are arranged on one side wall of connection point portion 16, and at least one inlet 12 is arranged on another or opposite side wall. In particular, at least one inlet 12 is not arranged on the end face of connection point portion 16. Advantageously, inlet 12 is positioned between the two outlets 14, 15. Due to this arrangement of inlet 12 and outlets 14, 15, valve body 37 includes, for example, three passage openings 48, 49, 50. Preferably, the two passage openings 48, 49 are arranged in a radially spaced relationship on the circumferential wall. The two passage openings 48, 49 are spaced apart from each other by a distance corresponding to the distance between inlet 12 and first outlet 14, as viewed in the stroke direction of valve body 37. Advantageously, the distance between inlet 12 and second outlet 15 is the same as the distance between inlet 12 and first outlet 14, as viewed in the stroke direction.

[0089] The length of the valve body 37 is such that the valve body 37 can be Figure 18 The first end position 39 shown is moved to Figure 19 The second end position 41 shown. Figure 18 In the first end position 39 shown, the inlet 12 is connected to the first outlet 14 and the second outlet 15 is blocked. Figure 19 In the second end position 41 of the valve body 37 shown, the first outlet 14 is blocked and the second outlet 15 is connected to the inlet 12 . Figure 20 The valve body 37 is shown in an intermediate position 42 , so that both outlets 14 , 15 can be supplied with medium flowing into the inlet 12 .

[0090] In this embodiment, it can be provided that the valve body 37 is permanently guided by the first seal 52 , the two third seals 62 and, for example, the fourth seal 71 .

[0091] A fourth seal is understood to be an additional seal that is arranged outside the pressure chamber to seal the pressure chamber on one side. In the present embodiment of the multi-port valve 11, it can be provided that the first seal 52 seals the first pressure chamber 56 to the valve housing 25. The third seal 62 seals the first pressure chamber 56 to the inlet 12. The further third seal 62 in turn seals the inlet 12 to the second pressure chamber 57. Preferably, a fourth seal 71 is also provided in the present embodiment. The fourth seal 71 can also be used to seal and / or guide the valve body 37, which is for example through the end face passage opening 50. In this embodiment, the third pressure chamber 72 is preferably provided between the following two aspects: one of the two aspects is the inlet 12 and the other of the two aspects is the first outlet 14 and the second outlet 15. In Figures 18 to 20 In the illustrated embodiment, a cartridge housing 68 is provided, which is composed of the first valve chamber sleeve 51, the second valve chamber sleeve 66, and the third valve chamber sleeve 74. The third valve chamber sleeve 74 is constructed in a similar manner to the second valve chamber sleeve 66 and is adjacent to the second valve chamber sleeve 66.

[0092] Alternatively, it may be provided that, in this embodiment of the connection point portion 16, the second seal 58, the third seal 62, and the fourth seal 71 are each inserted and fastened in the insertion opening 17. Alternatively, it may be provided that the first seal 52 and the second seal 58 are received by the first valve chamber sleeve 51, and the third seal 66 and the fourth seal 71 are inserted into the connection point portion 16. It may also be provided that only the fourth seal 71 is separately inserted into the connection point portion 16, and the first seal 52, the second seal 58, and the third seal 62 are attached to the valve chamber sleeves 51, 66 or are received in the valve chamber sleeves 51, 66.

[0093] In all embodiments of the multi-port valve 11 provided, reverse actuation is also possible, so that two outlets are actuated as two inlets and one inlet is used as an outlet.

[0094] Figure 21A diagram schematically illustrates the controllable volume flow through one of the above-described embodiments. In this diagram, the volume flow is plotted as a function of the travel path of the valve body 37. The travel path of the valve body 37 between the first end position 39 and the second end position 41 is plotted along the X-axis. The Y-axis shows the volume flow of the medium as a function of the movement of the valve body 37 relative to the first outlet 14 (characteristic curve A) and the volume flow of the medium as a function of the movement of the valve body 37 relative to the second outlet 15 (characteristic curve B). The multi-port valve 11 is designed so that it releases the full volume flow of the medium in either end position 39 or 41. In the end position 39, the volume flow between the inlet 12 and the second outlet 15 is fully open, and the first outlet 14 is blocked. In the second end position 41, the volume flow between the inlet 12 and the first outlet 14 is fully open, and the volume flow between the inlet 12 and the second outlet 15 is blocked. In the intermediate position 42, depending on the travel path of the valve body 37, mixed operation can be achieved, for example, with one volume flow continuously decreasing while the other continuously increasing. Nonlinear reduction or increase or a mixture thereof can also be controlled.

Claims

1. A multi-port valve for controlling a medium, particularly a medium in a refrigeration circuit of a refrigeration system having a heat pump function, wherein the multi-port valve comprises: - driver (27), a valve body (37), the stroke movement of which along a stroke axis can be controlled by an actuating element (34) of the drive (27), a valve body chamber (36) facing the actuator (27), into which the valve body (37) is at least partially movable, It is characterized by: - the valve body (37) is tubular and extends along the stroke axis, and - the valve body (37) in the end position (39, 41) of the stroke movement passes through at least one first pressure chamber (56) between the inlet (12) and the outlet (14, 15) and extends into or through at least one second pressure chamber (57) between the inlet (12) and at least one further outlet (15, 14), wherein at least one seal (52, 58, 62, 71) is associated with each pressure chamber (56, 57) for abutting the valve body (37).

2. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: The tubular valve body (37) has at least two passage openings (48, 49, 50), a first passage opening (48) being assigned to the inlet (12) and at least one further passage opening (49) being assigned to at least one outlet (14, 15).

3. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: In each case of a stroke movement of the valve body (37) into a first end position (39) and a stroke movement of the valve body (37) into a second end position (41), a stop is provided.

4. The multi-port valve according to claim 3, wherein: The valve body (37) connects the inlet (12) to one of the outlets (14, 15) in the first end position (39) of the valve body (37), and connects the inlet (12) to one of the further outlets (15, 14) in the second end position (41) of the valve body (37).

5. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: A pressure bypass (46) is provided between the valve body (37) and the valve body chamber (36).

6. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: At least one seal (52, 58, 62, 71) assigned to the pressure chamber (56, 57) is designed as a radial seal supported against the outer circumferential portion of the tubular valve body (37); or, at least one seal (52, 62, 71) assigned to the pressure chamber (56, 57) is designed as an axial seal, and the end face of the tubular valve body (37) is supported against the axial seal in a sealing manner in one end position (39, 41); or, at least one radial seal and at least one axial seal (52, 58, 62, 71) are provided, and the tubular valve body (37) is supported against the at least one radial seal and at least one axial seal in a sealing manner in at least one of the end positions (39, 41).

7. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: A first seal (52) is provided between the driver (27) and the first pressure chamber (56), a second seal (58) is provided between the first pressure chamber (56) and the second pressure chamber (57), and a third seal (62) is provided between the inlet (12) and the second pressure chamber (57).

8. The multi-port valve according to claim 7, wherein: The valve body (37) has a length such that: in the first end position (39), the valve body (37) is guided in the first seal (52), the second seal (58) and the third seal (62), and the valve body (37) is guided only in the first seal (52) and the second seal (58) in the second end position (41); or the valve body (37) has a length such that: in the first end position (39), the valve body (37) is guided in the second seal (58) and the third seal (62) and the valve body (37) is relatively close to the first seal (52). 2) protrudes, and the valve body (37) is guided in the second end position (41) only in the first seal (52) and the second seal (58) and the valve body (37) protrudes relative to the third seal (62); or the valve body (37) has a length such that: the valve body (37) is guided through the second seal (58) in the first end position (39) and the second end position (41), and preferably, the second seal (58) is designed as a radial seal, and the first seal (52) and the third seal (62) are designed as radial seals and / or axial seals.

9. The multi-port valve according to claim 7, wherein: The tubular valve body (37) has a length such that the valve body (37) is guided in the first seal (52), the second seal (58) and the third seal (62) in the first end position (39) and the second end position (41), and a further passage opening (50) leading to the second passage opening (49) is provided in the circumferential wall of the valve body (37) and / or on the end face of the valve body (37).

10. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: A first seal (52) is arranged between the driver (27) and the first pressure chamber (56), a third seal (62) is arranged between the inlet (12) and the second pressure chamber (57), and a fourth seal (71) is assigned to the second pressure chamber (57), the fourth seal (71) being arranged opposite to the third seal (62) and the fourth seal (71) being also adjacent to the second pressure chamber (57).

11. The multi-port valve according to claim 10, wherein: The valve body (37) extends from the passage opening (48) assigned to the inlet (12) toward both sides in the direction of the corresponding outlet (14, 15) and is guided at least within the first seal (52) and the third seal (62).

12. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: The cross section of the tubular valve body (37) is circular or elliptical.

13. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: A first valve chamber sleeve (51) is assigned to the driver (27), the first valve chamber sleeve (51) extends in a direction opposite to the driver (27) and surrounds the valve body (37), and the first valve chamber sleeve (51) is assigned to a first pressure chamber (56), and a first seal (52) is accommodated between the first valve chamber sleeve (51) and the driver (27) for sealing the first pressure chamber (56) to the driver (27).

14. The multi-port valve according to claim 13, wherein: The first valve chamber sleeve (51) extends through the first pressure chamber (56) and receives the second seal (58), which is associated in a manner opposite to the first seal (52) of the first pressure chamber (56), and preferably, the second seal (58) separates the first pressure chamber (56) from the second pressure chamber (57).

15. The multi-port valve according to claim 13, wherein: The first valve chamber sleeve (51) is adjacent to a second valve chamber sleeve (66) extending through the second pressure chamber (57), wherein the second seal (58) is received in the interface between the first valve chamber sleeve (51) and the second valve chamber sleeve (66), and the second valve chamber sleeve (66) receives a third seal (57) opposite to the first valve chamber sleeve (51), and the third seal (57) seals the second pressure chamber (57) relative to the inlet (12).

16. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: A third valve chamber sleeve (74) is arranged between the second valve chamber sleeve (66) and the first valve chamber sleeve (51), the third valve chamber sleeve (74) being assigned to the inlet (12) and positioned between the first outlet (14) and at least one further outlet (15).

17. The multi-port valve according to claim 16, wherein: Each valve chamber sleeve (51, 66, 74) is designed as one part or more parts, and the seal (52, 58, 62, 71) facing the valve body (37) at least radially is arranged in the interface between two valve chamber sleeves (51, 66, 74) or in the interface of a multi-part valve chamber sleeve (51, 66, 74) or in the interface between the valve chamber sleeve (51) and the actuator (27), and at least one seal (67) is arranged outside the interface.

18. The multi-port valve according to claim 16, wherein: The first valve chamber sleeve (51) and at least one further valve chamber sleeve (66, 74) are non-detachably connected to each other to form a cartridge housing (68), and can be inserted together into an insertion opening (17) of the connection point portion (16).

19. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein: The valve body (37) can be inserted into an insertion opening (17) of a connection point portion (16), the connection point portion (16) having an inlet (12) and at least two outlets (22, 23), which can be selectively actuated by movement of the valve body (37).

20. The multi-port valve according to claim 1, wherein The multi-port valve is designed as a 3 / 2-way valve. In particular, the 3 / 2-way valve is configured for refrigeration R744 or R290.

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