Flow path switching valve

Abstract

Provided is a flow path switching valve capable of switching a plurality of ports in various modes by a single valve that rotates integrally. A flow path switching valve (1) is provided with a housing (10), a valve body (30), and a drive unit that drives the valve body (30) via a rotating shaft (32A) so as to rotate the valve body (30). The housing (10) is provided with: a one-side port group (2) having a plurality of one-side ports; and an other-side port group (4) that has a plurality of other-side ports and is disposed at an interval in the axial direction with respect to the one-side port group (2). The valve body (30) is provided with: a one-side circumferential flow path that connects the pair of one-side ports; an axial flow path that connects the one port and the other port; and an other-side circumferential flow path that connects the pair of other-side ports.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a flow path switching valve for switching the flow of fluids flowing in multiple flow paths. Background Technology

[0002] As an automotive air conditioning unit, a known automotive liquid circulation system includes a refrigerant circuit and a water circuit in which heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant and water in the refrigerant circuit, and is used for cooling and heating inside the vehicle.

[0003] In this automotive fluid circulation system, various air conditioning modes are typically required, including cooling and heating, heating by reusing waste heat from the electric motor, and rapid heating using a water-heated electric heater (ECH). As a result, the number of flow path switching valves increases accordingly because the number of modes that switch the flow paths of water flowing in the water circuit and other systems also increases.

[0004] Previously, a technique was proposed to compactly construct the device by preparing two sets of flow path switching valves with four flow paths (ports) and arranging them close to each other (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-68705 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, the technology in Patent Document 1 requires multiple motors to control each flow path switching valve and separate software to control these motors, which limits the compactness and simplification of automotive fluid circulation systems.

[0010] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a flow path switching valve that can switch multiple ports (flow paths) in various modes by means of a single valve that rotates integrally.

[0011] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0012] This invention relates to a flow path switching valve, comprising: a frame; a valve core rotatably disposed within the frame; and a drive unit that drives the valve core to rotate via a rotating shaft. The frame comprises: a side port group having a plurality of side ports spaced apart circumferentially on the rotating shaft; and a other side port group having a plurality of other side ports spaced apart circumferentially on the rotating shaft and spaced apart axially relative to the side port group. The valve core comprises: a circumferential flow path connecting a pair of side ports; an axial flow path connecting the side ports to the other side ports; and a circumferential flow path connecting a pair of other side ports.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to the present invention, a flow path switching valve is available that can switch multiple ports in various modes by means of a single valve that rotates integrally. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 (A) is a top view of the flow path switching valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 (B) is the front view. Figure 1 (C) is a three-dimensional view viewed from above. Figure 1 (D) is a three-dimensional view when viewed from below.

[0016] Figure 2 (A) is an exploded perspective view of the flow path switching valve. Figure 2 (B) is a perspective view of one side of the shell section. Figure 2 (C) is a perspective view of the multi-sided shell section.

[0017] Figure 3 (A) is a three-dimensional view of the valve core of the flow path switching valve disassembled and viewed from above. Figure 3 (B) is a perspective view of the valve core disassembled and viewed from below.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a top view of the valve core.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a top view of the valve core in the first switching mode.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a top view of the valve core in the second switching mode.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a top view of the valve core in the third switching mode.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a top view of the valve core in the fourth switching mode.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a top view of the valve core in the fifth switching mode.

[0024] Figure 10 (A) to (E) are schematic diagrams of an automotive air conditioning system as an example of the application of this flow path switching valve. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The structure shown in the drawings is an example of an embodiment of the present invention. In the drawings, parts labeled with the same symbols represent parts with the same function or the same constituent elements, and repeated descriptions in the drawings are omitted as appropriate.

[0026] <Overall Structure>

[0027] Figure 1 The overall structure of a flow path switching valve 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The flow path switching valve 1 includes: a frame 10; a valve core 30 rotatably disposed within the frame 10; and a drive unit (omitted) such as an electric motor or solenoid that drives the valve core 30 to rotate via a rotating shaft 32A. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, in... Figure 1 In (B), the direction in which the rotation axis 32A extends is defined as the axial direction Z, the direction around the axial direction Z is defined as the circumferential direction S, and the direction orthogonal to the axial direction Z is defined as the radial direction R. Along the axial direction Z, Figure 1 The side above the paper of (B) is called "one side", and the side below the paper is called "the other side". In addition, the angle (position) around the specified rotation axis 32A in the circumferential direction S is called "phase", and the difference between the angles (positions) of the two components around the rotation axis 32A is called "phase difference".

[0028] <Frame>

[0029] like Figure 2 As shown, the frame 10 has a side frame 12 and a side frame 14. The side frame 12 has a bottomed cylindrical side housing portion 12A and a side port group 2 disposed on the peripheral wall of the side housing portion 12A.

[0030] One-side port group 2 includes a first side port to a fourth side port 2Aout, 2Bin, 2Cout, and 2Din arranged at equal intervals (90-degree phase intervals) along the circumferential direction S. In this embodiment, the 90-degree phase interval is defined as the "port-side reference phase difference". The first side port to the fourth side port 2Aout, 2Bin, 2Cout, and 2Din form a cylindrical tube extending radially outward from the circumferential wall of the one-side housing portion 12A. In this embodiment, the axial Z positions of the first side port to the fourth side port 2Aout, 2Bin, 2Cout, and 2Din are shown to be consistent with each other, but the axial Z positions can also be staggered.

[0031] The first side port to the fourth side port 2Aout, 2Bin, 2Cout, and 2Din constitute a flow path for fluid to flow through, and are respectively connected to piping of external devices (not specifically shown). The first side port 2Aout and the third side port 2Cout are the outflow ports for fluid passing through the valve core 30 to flow out of the frame 10 to the outside. The second side port 2Bin and the fourth side port 2Din are the inflow ports for external fluid to flow into the interior of the frame 10. That is, the side port group 2 alternately has inflow ports and outflow ports along the circumferential direction S.

[0032] The other side frame 14 has a bottomed cylindrical other side housing portion 14A and an other side port group 4 disposed on the peripheral wall of the other side housing portion 14A.

[0033] The other side port group 4 includes a first other side port to a fourth other side port 4Ain, 4Bout, 4Cin, and 4Dout, which are equally spaced (90-degree phase intervals) in the circumferential direction S. The first other side port to the fourth other side port 4Ain, 4Bout, 4Cin, and 4Dout form a cylindrical tube that extends radially outward from the circumferential wall of the other side housing portion 14A. In this embodiment, the axial Z positions of the first other side port to the fourth other side port 4Ain, 4Bout, 4Cin, and 4Dout are shown to be consistent with each other, but the axial Z positions can also be staggered.

[0034] The first side port to the fourth side port 4Ain, 4Bout, 4Cin, 4Dout constitute a flow path for fluid to flow through, and are respectively connected to piping of external devices (not specifically shown). The first other side port 4Ain and the third other side port 4Cin are inflow ports for external fluid to flow into the interior of the frame 10. The second other side port 4Bout and the fourth other side port 4Dout are outflow ports for fluid passing through the valve core 30 to flow out of the frame 10 to the outside. That is, the other side port group 4 alternately has inflow ports and outflow ports along the circumferential direction S.

[0035] Next, the configuration of port group 2 on one side and port group 4 on the other side will be explained.

[0036] When viewing port group 2 on one side and port group 4 on the other side as a whole, the two groups are separated along the Z-axis. The port of port group 4 on the other side closest to the first port 2Aout becomes the first port on the other side 4Ain. The port of port group 4 on the other side closest to the second port 2Bin becomes the second port on the other side 4Bout. The port of port group 4 on the other side closest to the third port 2Cout becomes the third port on the other side 4Cin. The port of port group 4 on the other side closest to the fourth port 2Din becomes the fourth port on the other side 4Dout.

[0037] Similarly, the port in port group 2 closest to the first other-side port 4Ain becomes the first other-side port 2Aout. The port in port group 2 closest to the second other-side port 4Bout becomes the second other-side port 2Bin. The port in port group 2 closest to the third other-side port 4Cin becomes the third other-side port 2Cout. The port in port group 2 closest to the fourth other-side port 4Dout becomes the fourth other-side port 2Din.

[0038] Based on the above results, when observing the port group 2 on one side and the port group 4 on the other side as a whole, the first port 2Aout and the first port 4Ain on the other side that are close to each other in the Z-axis become the outflow port and the inflow port, the second port 2Bin and the second port 4Bout on the other side that are close to each other in the Z-axis become the combination of the inflow port and the outflow port, the third port 2Cout and the third port 4Cin on the other side that are close to each other in the Z-axis become the combination of the outflow port and the inflow port, and the fourth port 2Din and the fourth port 4Dout on the other side that are close to each other in the Z-axis become the combination of the inflow port and the outflow port.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first side port 2Aout and the first other side port 4Ain are at the same position (phase) in the circumferential direction S. The second side port 2Bin and the second other side port 4Bout are at the same position (phase) in the circumferential direction S. The third side port 2Cout and the third other side port 4Cin are at the same position (phase) in the circumferential direction S. The fourth side port 2Din and the fourth other side port 4Dout are at the same position (phase) in the circumferential direction S.

[0040] However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the circumferential S positions of one side port group 2 and the other side port group 4 can also be staggered.

[0041] like Figure 2As shown in (A), one housing portion 12A and the other housing portion 14A are arranged such that their inner bottom surfaces face each other. As a result, when the respective flange portions 12C, 14C of one housing portion 12A and the other housing portion 14A are connected by screws 16 at eight circumferential locations, a receiving space for accommodating the valve core 30 is formed inside.

[0042] A retaining hole 12E is formed at the center of the bottom surface of one housing portion 12A, through which the rotating shaft 32A of the valve core 30 passes, to hold the rotating shaft 32A rotatably. On the other hand, a retaining shaft 14E protruding towards the valve core 30 is provided at the center of the bottom surface of the other housing portion 14A. The retaining shaft 14E is inserted into the retaining hole 32B provided in the valve core 30 (see reference). Figure 3 (B)) to keep the valve core 30 rotated freely.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown in (B), on the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall of one side housing portion 12A, there are openings at the ends of a first side port to a fourth side port 2Aout, 2Bin, 2Cout, and 2Din. An annular seal 12D made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone is disposed in each opening. This annular seal 12D ensures liquid tightness with the internal flow path of the valve core 30, as described later, by contacting the peripheral surface of the valve core 30. Figure 2 As shown in (C), on the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall of the other housing portion 14A, there are openings at the ends of the first other-side port to the fourth other-side port 4Ain, 4Bout, 4Cin, and 4Dout. An annular seal 14D made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone is disposed in each opening. This annular seal 14D ensures liquid tightness with the internal flow path of the valve core 30, as described later, by contacting the peripheral surface of the valve core 30.

[0044] <Valve Core>

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown in (A), the valve core 30 is a cylindrical component. A one-sided opening group 40 is formed on one side of the axial Z direction on the circumferential surface of the valve core 30, and a other-sided opening group 50 is formed on the other side. The number of openings in the one-sided opening group 40 is set to an integer multiple of the number of ports in the one-sided port group 2 (e.g., 4, 8, 12, 16, 20), and the number of openings in the other-sided opening group 50 is set to an integer multiple of the number of ports in the other-sided port group 4 (e.g., 4, 8, 12, 16, 20).

[0046] like Figure 3As shown, the one-sided opening group 40 has a first one-sided opening to a sixteenth one-sided opening 40A to 40P arranged at equal intervals (22.5-degree phase intervals) in the circumferential direction S. In this embodiment, the axial Z positions of the first one-sided opening to the sixteenth one-sided opening 40A to 40P are shown to be consistent with each other, but the axial Z positions can also be staggered. The other-sided opening group 40 has a first other-sided opening to a sixteenth other-sided opening 50A to 50P arranged at equal intervals (22.5-degree phase intervals) in the circumferential direction S. In this embodiment, the axial Z positions of the first other-sided opening to the sixteenth other-sided opening 50A to 50P are shown to be consistent with each other, but the axial Z positions can also be staggered.

[0047] When observing both the one-sided opening group 40 and the other-sided opening group 50 as a whole, the two groups are separated along the Z-axis. If the opposite side of the one-sided opening group 40 is defined as the other-sided opening group 40, and the opposite side of the other-sided opening group 50 is defined as the one-sided opening group 40, then the first one-sided opening 40A and the first other-sided opening 50A are the closest opposing openings; the second one-sided opening 40B and the second other-sided opening 50B are the closest opposing openings; the third one-sided opening 40C and the third other-sided opening 50C are the closest opposing openings; the fourth one-sided opening 40D and the fourth other-sided opening 50D are the closest opposing openings; the fifth one-sided opening 40E and the fifth other-sided opening 50E are the closest opposing openings; the sixth one-sided opening 40F and the sixth other-sided opening 50F are the closest opposing openings; the seventh one-sided opening 40G and the seventh other-sided opening 50G are the closest opposing openings; and the eighth one-sided opening 40H... The eighth side opening 50H and the ninth side opening 40I and the ninth side opening 50I become the closest opposing side openings, the eleventh side opening 40J and the eleventh side opening 50J become the closest opposing side openings, the eleventh side opening 40K and the eleventh side opening 50K become the closest opposing side openings, the twelfth side opening 40L and the twelfth side opening 50L become the closest opposing side openings, the thirteenth side opening 40M and the thirteenth side opening 50M become the closest opposing side openings, the fourteenth side opening 40N and the fourteenth side opening 50N become the closest opposing side openings, the fifteenth side opening 40O and the fifteenth side opening 50O become the closest opposing side openings, and the sixteenth side opening 40P and the sixteenth side opening 50P become the closest opposing side openings. In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the openings on the closest opposite sides are aligned in the circumferential direction S is illustrated, but they may also be offset from each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0048] <Valve core opening>

[0049] Next, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The internal flow path of valve core 30 will be explained. Additionally, in Figures 4-9 In the top view of the valve core 30, for ease of explanation, the positions of the first side opening 40A and the first other side opening 50 are labeled with number 1; the positions of the second side opening 40B and the second other side opening 50B are labeled with number 2; the positions of the third side opening 40C and the third other side opening 50C are labeled with number 3; the positions of the fourth side opening 40D and the fourth other side opening 50D are labeled with number 4; the positions of the fifth side opening 40E and the fifth other side opening 50E are labeled with number 5; the positions of the sixth side opening 40F and the sixth other side opening 50F are labeled with number 6; the positions of the seventh side opening 40G and the seventh other side opening 50G are labeled with number 7; and the positions of the eighth side opening 40H and the eighth other side opening 50H are labeled with number 8. Number 9 is marked at the position of the ninth side opening 40I and the ninth other side opening 50I; number 10 is marked at the position of the eleventh side opening 40J and the eleventh other side opening 50J; number 11 is marked at the position of the eleventh side opening 40K and the eleventh other side opening 50K; number 12 is marked at the position of the twelfth side opening 40L and the twelfth other side opening 50L; number 13 is marked at the position of the thirteenth side opening 40M and the thirteenth other side opening 50M; number 14 is marked at the position of the fourteenth side opening 40N and the fourteenth other side opening 50N; number 15 is marked at the position of the fifteenth side opening 40O and the fifteenth other side opening 50O; and number 16 is marked at the position of the sixteenth side opening 40P and the sixteenth other side opening 50P.

[0050] <Flow path of valve core>

[0051] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, a circumferential flow path group 44 on one side, a circumferential flow path group 54 on the other side, and an axial flow path group 60 are formed inside the valve core 30. Specifically, the axial flow path group 60 includes a large phase difference axial flow path group 62 and a small phase difference axial flow path group 68. The circumferential flow path group 44 on one side has multiple flow paths (one-side circumferential flow paths) that interconnect with multiple openings selected from the opening group 40 on one side. The circumferential flow path group 54 on the other side has multiple flow paths that interconnect with multiple openings selected from the opening group 50 on the other side (other-side circumferential flow paths). The axial flow path group 60 has multiple flow paths (axial flow paths) that interconnect with openings selected from the opening group 40 on one side and openings selected from the opening group 50 on the other side. Furthermore, the large phase difference axial flow path group 62 has multiple axial flow paths (large phase difference axial flow paths) where the circumferential phase S of the openings selected from the opening group 40 on one side and the openings selected from the opening group 50 on the other side has a large phase difference. Small phase difference axial flow path group 68 has multiple axial flow paths (small phase difference axial flow paths) where the circumferential phase difference S between an opening selected from one side opening group 40 and an opening selected from another side opening group 50 is smaller than that of a large phase difference axial flow path.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the phase difference between the two openings of the large phase difference axial flow path is preferably 45 degrees or more, and is expected to exceed 45 degrees. Additionally, the phase difference between the two openings of the large phase difference axial flow path is preferably an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference (in this case, 45 degrees). The phase difference between the two openings of the small phase difference axial flow path is preferably 45 degrees or less, and is expected to be less than 45 degrees.

[0053] The circumferential flow path group 44 on one side has a first circumferential flow path to a fourth circumferential flow path 44A to 44D. The first circumferential flow path 44A is formed in a U-shape or V-shape by bypassing the fourteenth circumferential opening 40N, the fifteenth circumferential opening 40O, and the sixteenth circumferential opening 40P, thus connecting the first circumferential opening 40A and the thirteenth circumferential opening 40M, which will have a 90-degree phase difference (port-side reference phase difference). The second circumferential flow path 44B is formed in a U-shape or V-shape by bypassing the sixteenth circumferential opening 40P, the first circumferential opening 40A, and the second circumferential opening 40B, thus connecting the third circumferential opening 40C and the fifteenth circumferential opening 40O, which will have a 90-degree phase difference (port-side reference phase difference). The third circumferential flow path 44C bypasses the eighth side opening 40H, the ninth side opening 40I, and the eleventh side opening 40J, forming a U-shaped or V-shaped flow path that connects the seventh side opening 40G and the eleventh side opening 40K, which will have a 90-degree phase difference (port-side reference phase difference). The fourth circumferential flow path 44D bypasses the thirteenth side opening 40M, the fourteenth side opening 40N, and the fifteenth side opening 40O, forming a U-shaped or V-shaped flow path that connects the twelfth side opening 40L and the sixteenth side opening 40P, which will have a 90-degree phase difference (port-side reference phase difference).

[0054] When viewed from the Z-axis, the first side circumferential flow path 44A intersects with the second side circumferential flow path 44B, the second side circumferential flow path 44B intersects with the fourth side circumferential flow path 44D, and the first side circumferential flow path 44A intersects with the fourth side circumferential flow path 44D.

[0055] The second circumferential flow path 44B and the third circumferential flow path 44C do not intersect each other. Furthermore, the phase difference between the four openings (the two end openings of the second circumferential flow path 44B and the two end openings of the third circumferential flow path 44C) is an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the second circumferential flow path 44B and the third circumferential flow path 44C simultaneously function as a port connection connecting a pair of ports in port group 2 on one side (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 6 ).

[0056] The phase difference between the two openings of the first circumferential flow path 44A and the two openings of the second circumferential flow path 44B is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, the first circumferential flow path 44A and the second circumferential flow path 44B do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in one side of port group 2 (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 7 ).

[0057] The phase difference between the two openings of the first side circumferential flow path 44A and the two openings of the third side circumferential flow path 44C is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, the first side circumferential flow path 44A and the third side circumferential flow path 44C do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in one side port group 2 (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 7 ).

[0058] The phase difference between the two openings of the fourth circumferential flow path 44D and the two openings of the second circumferential flow path 44B is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, the fourth circumferential flow path 44D and the second circumferential flow path 44B do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in one-sided port group 2 (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 9 ).

[0059] The phase difference between the two openings of the fourth circumferential flow path 44D and the two openings of the third circumferential flow path 44C is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, the fourth circumferential flow path 44D and the third circumferential flow path 44C do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in port group 2 on one side (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 9 ).

[0060] The phase difference between the two openings of the first circumferential flow path 44A and the two openings of the fourth circumferential flow path 44D is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the first circumferential flow path 44A and the fourth circumferential flow path 44D do not simultaneously function as port connections (see reference). Figure 7 and Figure 9 ).

[0061] The other side circumferential flow path group 54 has a first other side circumferential flow path to a fourth other side circumferential flow path 54A to 54D. The first other side circumferential flow path 54A forms a U-shaped or V-shaped flow path that connects the third other side opening 50C, which will become a 90-degree phase difference (port-side reference phase difference), and the fifteenth other side opening 50O, by bypassing the sixteenth other side opening 50P, the first other side opening 50A, and the second other side opening 50B. The second other side circumferential flow path 54B forms a U-shaped or V-shaped flow path that connects the fourth other side opening 50D, which will become a 90-degree phase difference (port-side reference phase difference), and the sixteenth other side opening 50P, by bypassing the first other side opening 50A, the second other side opening 50B, and the third other side opening 50C. The third circumferential flow path 54C bypasses the eighth, ninth, and eleventh openings 50H, 50I, and 50J, forming a U-shaped or V-shaped flow path that connects the seventh and eleventh openings 50G and 50K, which will have a 90-degree phase difference (port-side reference phase difference). The fourth circumferential flow path 54D bypasses the eleventh, eleventh, and twelfth openings 50J, 50J, 50K, and 50L, forming a U-shaped or V-shaped flow path that connects the ninth and thirteenth openings 50I and 50M, which will have a 90-degree phase difference (port-side reference phase difference).

[0062] When viewed from the axial direction Z, the first circumferential flow path 54A on the other side intersects with the second circumferential flow path 54B on the other side, and the third circumferential flow path 54C on the other side intersects with the fourth circumferential flow path 54D on the other side.

[0063] The first circumferential flow path 54A and the third circumferential flow path 54C do not intersect each other. The phase difference between the two ends of the first circumferential flow path 54A and the two ends of the third circumferential flow path 54C, totaling four openings, is an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the first circumferential flow path 54A and the third circumferential flow path 54C simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in the other-side port group 4 (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 6 ).

[0064] The phase difference between the two openings of the second circumferential flow path 54B and the two openings of the first circumferential flow path 54A is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, the second circumferential flow path 54B and the first circumferential flow path 54A do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in the other port group 4 (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 9 ).

[0065] The phase difference between the two openings of the second circumferential flow path 54B and the two openings of the third circumferential flow path 54C is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, the second circumferential flow path 54B and the third circumferential flow path 54C do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in the other port group 4 (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 9 ).

[0066] The phase difference between the two openings of the fourth circumferential flow path 54D on the other side and the two openings of the first circumferential flow path 54A on the other side is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, the fourth circumferential flow path 54D and the first circumferential flow path 54A on the other side do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in the other side port group 4 (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 7 ).

[0067] The phase difference between the two openings of the fourth circumferential flow path 54D and the two openings of the third circumferential flow path 54C is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, the fourth circumferential flow path 54D and the third circumferential flow path 54C do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in the other port group 4 (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 7 ).

[0068] The phase difference between the two openings of the second circumferential flow path 54B and the two openings of the fourth circumferential flow path 54D is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the second circumferential flow path 54B and the fourth circumferential flow path 54D do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports in the other port group 4 (see reference). Figure 7 and Figure 9 ).

[0069] Viewed from the Z-axis, the phase difference between the two ends of the second circumferential flow path 44B and the two ends of the first circumferential flow path 54A, totaling four openings, is an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Furthermore, the phase difference between the two ends of the third circumferential flow path 44C and the two ends of the third circumferential flow path 54C, totaling four openings, is an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. As a result, these four flow paths simultaneously function as a port connection connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 5 and Figure 6 ).

[0070] The phase difference between the two openings of the first circumferential flow path 44A and the two openings of the fourth circumferential flow path 54D is an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the first circumferential flow path 44A and the fourth circumferential flow path 54D simultaneously function as a port connection connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 7).

[0071] The phase difference between the two openings of the fourth circumferential flow path 44D on one side and the two openings of the second circumferential flow path 54B on the other side is an integer multiple of the reference phase difference on the port side. Therefore, the fourth circumferential flow path 44D on one side and the second circumferential flow path 54B on the other side simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0072] The large phase difference axial flow path group 62 has a first large phase difference axial flow path 63 and a second large phase difference axial flow path 65.

[0073] The first large phase difference axial flow path 63 becomes a radial flow path connecting the fourth side opening 40D, which has a phase difference of 180 degrees (twice the phase difference of the port-side reference phase difference), and the twelfth other side opening 50L. More specifically, the first large phase difference axial flow path 63 has a first side axial flow path piece 63A extending axially along the Z direction from the fourth side opening 40D toward the twelfth other side opening 50L on one side, a first radial flow path piece 63B extending radially, and a first other side axial flow path piece 63C extending axially along the Z direction on the other side. That is, it forms a stepped flow path.

[0074] Viewed from the Z-axis, the twelfth opening 50L at the end of the first large phase difference axial flow path 63 overlaps with the twelfth opening 40L at the end of the fourth side circumferential flow path 44D. Furthermore, the fourth side opening 40D at the end of the first large phase difference axial flow path 63 overlaps with the fourth side opening 50D at the end of the second side circumferential flow path 54B. As a result, the first large phase difference axial flow path 63, the fourth side circumferential flow path 44D, and the second side circumferential flow path 54B simultaneously function as a port connection connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0075] The second large phase difference axial flow path 65 forms a radial flow path that connects the ninth side opening 40I, which has a phase difference of 180 degrees (twice the phase difference of the port-side reference phase difference), with the first other side opening 50A. More specifically, the second large phase difference axial flow path 65 has a second side axial flow path piece 65A extending axially along the Z direction from the ninth side opening 40I toward the first other side opening 50A on one side, a second radial flow path piece 65B extending radially along the R direction, and a second other side axial flow path piece 65C extending axially along the Z direction on the other side. That is, it forms a stepped flow path.

[0076] Viewed from the Z-axis, the first side opening 50A at the end of the second largest phase difference axial flow path 65 overlaps with the first side opening 40A at the end of the first side circumferential flow path 44A. Furthermore, the ninth side opening 40I at the end of the second largest phase difference axial flow path 65 overlaps with the ninth side opening 50I at the end of the fourth side circumferential flow path 54D. As a result, the second largest phase difference axial flow path 65, the first side circumferential flow path 44A, and the fourth side circumferential flow path 54D simultaneously function as a port connection connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0077] When viewed from the Z-axis, the first radial flow path 63B and the second radial flow path 65B intersect. Furthermore, the phase difference between the openings at both ends of the first radial flow path 63B and the openings at both ends of the second radial flow path 65B is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the first radial flow path 63B and the second radial flow path 65B are configured not to simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 7 and Figure 9 ).

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is shown where the phase difference between the two openings of the first large phase difference axial flow path 63 and the second large phase difference axial flow path 65 is 180°, resulting in the first radial flow path piece 63B and the second radial flow path piece 65B intersecting the center line of the rotation axis 32A. However, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the present invention includes a case where the phase difference between the two openings of the first large phase difference axial flow path 63 and the second large phase difference axial flow path 65 is less than 180°, so that the first radial flow path piece 63B and the second radial flow path piece 65B do not intersect the center line.

[0079] Small phase difference axial flow path group 68 has a first small phase difference axial flow path to a sixth small phase difference axial flow path 68A to 68F. The first small phase difference axial flow path 68A forms a straight flow path connecting the second side opening 40B to the second other side opening 50C. The second small phase difference axial flow path 68B forms a flow path connecting the fifth side opening 40E to the fifth other side opening 50E. The third small phase difference axial flow path 68C forms a straight flow path connecting the sixth side opening 40F to the sixth other side opening 50F. The fourth small phase difference axial flow path 68D forms a straight flow path connecting the eighth side opening 40H to the eighth other side opening 50H. The fifth small phase difference axial flow path 68E forms a straight flow path connecting the eleventh side opening 40J to the eleventh other side opening 50J. The sixth small phase difference axial flow path 68F forms a straight flow path connecting the fourteenth side opening 40N to the fourteenth other side opening 50N. In addition, all of the small phase difference axial flow path groups 68 extend parallel to the axial direction Z.

[0080] The first small phase difference axial flow path 68A, the third small phase difference axial flow path 68C, the fifth small phase difference axial flow path 68E, and the sixth small phase difference axial flow path 68F are set to form an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the first small phase difference axial flow path 68A, the third small phase difference axial flow path 68C, the fifth small phase difference axial flow path 68E, and the sixth small phase difference axial flow path 68F simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0081] The phase difference between the openings at both ends of the second circumferential flow path 44B and all phases of the four flow paths 68A, 68C, 68E, and 68F is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Similarly, the phase difference between the openings at both ends of the third circumferential flow path 44C and all phases of the four flow paths 68A, 68C, 68E, and 68F is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Likewise, the phase difference between the openings at both ends of the third circumferential flow path 54C and all phases of the four flow paths 68A, 68C, 68E, and 68F is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference.

[0082] As a result, the group of four flow paths 68A, 68C, 68E, and 68F, the group of the second side circumferential flow path 44B, the first other side circumferential flow path 54A, the third side circumferential flow path 44C, and the third other side circumferential flow path 54C do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 ).

[0083] Furthermore, the phase difference between the openings at both ends of the second small phase difference axial flow path 68B and all phases of the four flow paths 68A, 68C, 68E, and 68F is not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Similarly, the phase difference between the openings at both ends of the fourth small phase difference axial flow path 68D and all phases of the four flow paths 68A, 68C, 68E, and 68F is set to be not an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the group of four flow paths 68A, 68C, 68E, and 68F, the second small phase difference axial flow path 68B, and the fourth small phase difference axial flow path 68D do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0084] Furthermore, the phase difference between the second small phase difference axial flow path 68B and the fourth small phase difference axial flow path 68D is set to be a non-integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Therefore, the second small phase difference axial flow path 68B and the fourth small phase difference axial flow path 68D do not simultaneously perform the port connection function of connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 7 and Figure 9 ).

[0085] The phase difference between the second small phase difference axial flow path 68B and the phase difference between the two openings of the first large phase difference axial flow path 63 is set to an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Thus, the second small phase difference axial flow path 68B and the first large phase difference axial flow path 63 simultaneously function as a port connection connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0086] The phase difference between the fourth small phase difference axial flow path 68D and the phase difference between the two openings of the second large phase difference axial flow path 65 is set to an integer multiple of the port-side reference phase difference. Thus, the fourth small phase difference axial flow path 68D and the second large phase difference axial flow path 65 simultaneously function as a port connection connecting a pair of ports (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0087] <Valve Core Component Structure>

[0088] Return to Figure 2 In order to form the above-mentioned multiple flow paths inside, as independent components, the valve core 30 has a side valve portion 33 with a circular plate shape mainly forming a side opening group 40, a middle valve portion 34 with a circular plate shape mainly forming an axial flow path and a radial flow path, and a other side valve portion 38 with a circular plate shape mainly forming a side opening group 50.

[0089] More specifically, as independent components, the intermediate valve section 34 has a circular plate-shaped intermediate valve plate 35 on one side, a circular plate-shaped intermediate valve plate 37 on the other side, and a circular plate-shaped intermediate valve plate 36 disposed between the intermediate valve plate 35 on one side and the intermediate valve plate 37 on the other side. The one-side valve section 33, the intermediate valve section 34, and the other-side valve section 38 are connected to each other along the Z-axis by screws (not shown).

[0090] like Figure 3 As shown in (B), a circumferential flow path group 44 is mainly formed by multiple grooves in the valve section 33. Specifically, a first circumferential flow path 44A, a second circumferential flow path 44B, and a fourth circumferential flow path 44D are formed by the first circumferential groove 33A. In addition, a third circumferential flow path 44C is formed by the second circumferential groove 33B. The first circumferential groove 33A and the second circumferential groove 33B function as flow paths by being covered by one side of the intermediate valve plate 35.

[0091] like Figure 3As shown in (A), in the other side valve section 38, a plurality of grooves form the other side circumferential flow path group 54. Specifically, the first other side circumferential flow path 54A and the second other side circumferential flow path 54B are concentratedly formed by the first other side groove 38A. In addition, the second other side groove 38B forms the third other side circumferential flow path 54C and the fourth other side circumferential flow path 54D. The first other side groove 38A and the second other side groove 38B function as flow paths by being covered by the other side of the other side intermediate valve plate 37.

[0092] On one side of the intermediate valve plate 35 and / or one side of the intermediate valve plate 36, a first radial flow path plate 63B is formed in the first large phase difference axial flow path 63. Similarly, on one side of the intermediate valve plate 37 and / or the other side of the intermediate valve plate 36, a second radial flow path plate 65B is formed in the second large phase difference axial flow path 65. In this way, by using the intermediate valve plate 36 to separate the first radial flow path plate 63B and the second radial flow path plate 65B in the axial Z direction, mutual interference is avoided.

[0093] Seven through holes are formed in the intermediate valve section 34 (intermediate valve plate 35 on one side, intermediate valve plate 36 on the other side, and intermediate valve plate 37 on the other side) in a straight line along the axial direction Z. These through holes are part of the small phase difference axial flow path group 68 (the first small phase difference axial flow path to the sixth small phase difference axial flow path 68A to 68F).

[0094] <Switch Mode>

[0095] Figures 5 to 9 Five switching modes are shown. Figure 5 In the first switching mode, the second side circumferential flow path 44B connects the third side port 2Cout to the fourth side port 2Din. The third side circumferential flow path 44C connects the first side port 2Aout to the second side port 2Bin. The first other side circumferential flow path 54A connects the third other side port 4Cin to the fourth other side port 4Dout. The third other side circumferential flow path 54C connects the first other side port 4Ain to the second other side port 4Bout. The first switching mode forms a mode that uses only one side circumferential flow path group 44 and the other side circumferential flow path group 54, therefore, it is called the "circumferential connection mode". In addition, the position of the valve core 30 relative to the frame 10 in the first switching mode is defined as the reference stop position of the valve core 30.

[0096] exist Figure 6In the second switching mode, the valve core 30 rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise relative to the frame 10 from the reference stop position. In this second switching mode, the second side circumferential flow path 44B connects the fourth side port 2Din to the first side port 2Aout. The third side circumferential flow path 44C connects the second side port 2Bin to the third side port 2Cout. The first other side circumferential flow path 54A connects the fourth other side port 4Dout to the first other side port 4Ain. The third other side circumferential flow path 54C connects the second other side port 4Bout to the third other side port 4Cin. This second switching mode is a "circumferential connection mode".

[0097] exist Figure 7 In the third switching mode, the valve core 30 rotates 45 degrees counterclockwise relative to the frame 10 from the reference stop position. In the third switching mode, the first side circumferential flow path 44A connects the third side port 2Cout to the fourth side port 2Din. The fourth side circumferential flow path 54D connects the second side port 4Bout to the third side port 4Cin. The second small phase difference axial flow path 68B connects the first side port 2Aout to the first side port 4Ain. The second large phase difference axial flow path 65 connects the second side port 2Bin to the fourth side port 4Dout. This third switching mode forms a mode that combines the use of the one side circumferential flow path group 44 and the other side circumferential flow path group 54 with the axial flow path group 60, and is therefore called a "hybrid connection mode". In addition, in this hybrid connection mode, the flow paths of both the large phase difference axial flow path group 62 and the small phase difference axial flow path group 68 in the axial flow path group 60 are utilized.

[0098] exist Figure 8 In the fourth switching mode, the valve core 30 rotates 22.5 degrees counterclockwise relative to the frame 10 from the reference stop position. In the fourth switching mode, the first small phase difference axial flow path 68A connects the fourth side port 2Din to the fourth other side port 4Dout. The third small phase difference axial flow path 68C connects the first side port 2Aout to the first other side port 4Ain. The fifth small phase difference axial flow path 68E connects the second side port 2Bin to the second other side port 4Bout. The sixth small phase difference axial flow path 68F connects the third side port 2Cout to the third other side port 4Cin. This fourth switching mode forms a mode that uses only the axial flow path group 60, therefore, it is called the "axial connection mode".

[0099] exist Figure 9In the fifth switching mode, the valve core 30 rotates 337.5 degrees counterclockwise (22.5 degrees clockwise) relative to the frame 10 from the reference stop position. In the fifth switching mode, the fourth side circumferential flow path 44D connects the second side port 2Bin to the third side port 2Cout. The second other side circumferential flow path 54B connects the third other side port 4Cin to the fourth other side port 4Dout. The fourth small phase difference axial flow path 68D connects the first side port 2Aout to the first other side port 4Ain. The first large phase difference axial flow path 63 connects the fourth side port 2Din to the second other side port 4Bout. This fifth switching mode belongs to the "hybrid connection mode". In addition, in the hybrid connection mode of the fifth switching mode, the flow paths of both the large phase difference axial flow path group 62 and the small phase difference axial flow path group 68 are utilized.

[0100] According to the flow path switching valve 1 of this embodiment, by utilizing a single drive unit and a single valve core 30 to stop the valve core 30 relative to the frame 10 at five different stop positions, the connection mode of the flow path of a total of eight ports—from the first other side port to the fourth other side port 2Aout, 2Bin, 2Cout, 2Din and from the first other side port to the fourth other side port 4Ain, 4Bout, 4Cin, 4Dout—can be freely switched between the first switching mode and the fifth switching mode. Although these five switching modes are implemented in this flow path switching valve 1, since it is not necessary to combine multiple flow path switching valves as in the past, the overall configuration can be extremely compact.

[0101] In this flow path switching valve 1, one side port group 2 is alternately equipped with inflow ports and outflow ports along the circumferential direction S, and the other side port group 4 is also alternately equipped with inflow ports and outflow ports along the circumferential direction S. Furthermore, for adjacent side port groups 2 and the other side port group 4 along the axial direction Z, inflow ports and outflow ports are also arranged in pairs. As a result, the flow path lengths of the one-sided circumferential flow path group 44 connecting the one-sided port groups 2 to each other and the other-sided circumferential flow path group 54 connecting the other-sided port groups 4 to each other can be shortened, thus simplifying the internal structure of the valve core 30. Furthermore, the flow path length of the small phase difference axial flow path group 68 can also be shortened, thus further simplifying the internal structure of the valve core 30.

[0102] Furthermore, according to this flow path switching valve 1, a mixed connection mode can be realized through the axial flow path 63 with the first large phase difference and the axial flow path 65 with the second large phase difference, thus increasing the number of switching modes.

[0103] Furthermore, according to this flow path switching valve 1, the valve core 30 is assembled from at least three components: a valve section 33 on one side, a valve section 34 in the middle, and a valve section 38 on the other side. This allows for efficient manufacturing of the flow path within the valve core 30. Maintenance is also simple for the operator by disassembling the valve core 30.

[0104] <Application Examples>

[0105] Figure 10 (A) shows an automotive air conditioning system 100 using the flow path switching valve 1 of this embodiment. The automotive air conditioning system 100 includes: a refrigerant circuit 110; a first heat transfer circuit 120 for circulating a heat transfer medium that exchanges heat using a heat exchanger 104A of the refrigerant circuit 110; a second heat transfer circuit 130 for circulating a heat transfer medium that exchanges heat using a heat exchanger 104B of the refrigerant circuit 110; an external heat transfer circuit 140 for circulating a heat transfer medium via an external heat exchanger 142 that exchanges heat with the outside (outdoors); an HVAC unit 150 for circulating ventilation air in the vehicle interior; a motor heat transfer circuit 160 for circulating a heat transfer medium that regulates the temperature of the motor M; and a battery heat transfer circuit 170 for circulating a heat transfer medium that regulates the temperature of the battery B.

[0106] In this embodiment, the flow path switching valve 1 is connected to a pair of pipes for the second heat transfer circuit 130, a pair of pipes for the external heat transfer circuit 140, a pair of pipes for the motor heat transfer circuit 160, and a pair of pipes for the battery heat transfer circuit 170. Furthermore, the external heat transfer circuit 140 and the first heat transfer circuit 120 are connected via a general-purpose four-way valve 180. The refrigerant circuit 110, in addition to a pair of heat exchangers 104A and 104B, includes a compressor 102, an expansion mechanism 106, and a storage tank 108. The HVAC unit 150 includes a heater 152 that heats air using the heat transfer medium of the first heat transfer circuit 120, and a heat absorber 154 that cools air using the heat transfer medium of the second heat transfer circuit 130. The battery heat transfer circuit 170 includes a water-heating electric heater ECH at an intermediate point.

[0107] exist Figure 10 In (A), the flow path switching valve 1 forms a first switching mode. Thus, the external heat transfer circuit 140 is connected to the motor heat transfer circuit 160, and the second heat transfer circuit 130 is connected to the battery heat transfer circuit 170, enabling (dehumidification) cooling of the room while cooling the battery B. Figure 10 As shown in (B), when the flow path switching valve 1 is set to the second switching mode, the external heat transfer circuit 140 is connected to the second heat transfer circuit 130, and the motor heat transfer circuit 160 is connected to the battery heat transfer circuit 170, enabling indoor (dehumidification) heating. Figure 10As shown in (C), when the flow path switching valve 1 is set to the third switching mode, the external heat transfer circuit 140, the second heat transfer circuit 130, and the motor heat transfer circuit 160 are connected, enabling the use of the waste heat from the motor M to heat the room. Figure 10 As shown in (D), when the flow path switching valve 1 is set to the fourth switching mode, the external heat transfer circuit 140 is connected to the battery heat transfer circuit 170, and the motor heat transfer circuit 160 is connected to the second heat transfer circuit 130, enabling heating of the room while defrosting. Figure 10 As shown in (E), when the flow path switching valve 1 is set to the fifth switching mode, the second heat transfer circuit 130, the motor heat transfer circuit 160 and the battery heat transfer circuit 170 are connected, and the room can be heated by using ECH for supplementary heating.

[0108] Furthermore, the flow path switching valve 1 of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0109] Symbol Explanation

[0110] 1. Flow path switching valve; 2. One-sided port group; 2Aout First side port; 2-Bin second side port; 2Cout Third side port; 2Din Fourth side port; 4. The other side port group; 4Ain First port on the other side; 4Bout Second port on the other side; 4Cin Third port on the other side; 4Dout is the fourth port on the other side; 10. Frame; 12. One side frame; 12A One side of the housing section; 12C, 14C flange portion; 12D annular seal; 12E retaining hole; 14. The other side of the frame; 14A The other side of the housing; 14D annular seal; 14E retaining axis; 30 Valve core; 32A Rotary Shaft; 32B retaining hole; 33. One-sided valve section; 33A First side groove; 33B Second side groove; 34. Intermediate valve section; 35. One-sided intermediate valve plate; 36. Intermediate valve plate; 37. The other side, the intermediate valve plate; 38. Valve section on the other side; 38A First groove on the other side; 38B The second groove on the other side; 40. One-sided opening assembly; 44. One-sided circumferential flow path group; 44A First side circumferential flow path; 44B Second side circumferential flow path; 44C Third side circumferential flow path; 44D Fourth side circumferential flow path; 50. Opening group on the other side; 54. The other side of the circumferential flow path group; 54A First circumferential flow path on the other side; 54B Second circumferential flow path on the other side; 54C Third circumferential flow path on the other side; 54D Fourth circumferential flow path on the other side; 60 Axial flow path group; 62 large phase difference axial flow path groups; 63. First axial flow path with the largest phase difference; 63A First side axial flow path plate; 63B First radial flow path plate; 63C First axial flow path plate on the other side; 65. The second largest phase difference axial flow path; 65A Second Side Axial Flow Path Plate; 65B Second Radial Flow Path Plate; 65C Second axial flow path plate on the other side; 68 small phase difference axial flow path groups; 68A First small phase difference axial flow path; 68B Second Small Phase Difference Axial Flow Path; 68C Third Small Phase Difference Axial Flow Path; 68D Fourth Small Phase Difference Axial Flow Path; 68E Fifth small phase difference axial flow path; 68F Sixth smallest phase difference axial flow path; 100. Vehicle air conditioning system; 102 Compressor; 104A heat exchanger; 104B heat exchanger; 106. Expansion mechanism; 108 storage tanks; 110 Refrigerant circuit; 120 First heat carrier circuit; 130 Second heat transfer circuit; 140 External heat transfer circuit; 142 External heat exchanger; 150 HVAC unit; 152 Heater; 154 Heat absorber; 160 Electric motor heat transfer circuit; 170 Battery heat transfer circuit; 180 Four-way Valve; B. Battery; ECH water heating electric heater; M motor.

Claims

1. A flow path switching valve, The flow path switching valve comprises: a frame; a valve core rotatably disposed within the frame; and a drive unit that drives the valve core to rotate via a rotating shaft, characterized in that... The frame has: A side port group, the side port group having a plurality of side ports spaced apart circumferentially on the rotation axis; and The other side port group has a plurality of other side ports arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis, and arranged at intervals in the axial direction of the rotation axis relative to the one side port group. The valve core includes: A circumferential flow path on one side connects a pair of ports on that side. An axial flow path that connects one side port to the other side port; and The other circumferential flow path connects the paired ports on the other side.

2. The flow path switching valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core has multiple circumferential flow paths on one side and multiple circumferential flow paths on the other side. When the valve core is viewed from the axial direction, a plurality of circumferential flow paths on one side intersect each other, and a plurality of circumferential flow paths on the other side intersect each other.

3. The flow path switching valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the valve core is viewed from the axial direction, the multiple axial flow paths intersect each other.

4. The flow path switching valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, As the axial flow path, the valve core includes: A high-phase-difference axial flow path connects the port on one side with a larger relative angular difference in the circumferential direction to the port on the other side; and A low phase difference axial flow path connects the port on one side with a smaller relative circumferential angle difference to the port on the other side.

5. The flow path switching valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The port on one side is alternately configured with inflow and outflow ports in a circumferential arrangement. The other port is alternately configured with inflow and outflow ports in a circumferential arrangement.

6. The flow path switching valve as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The port on the other side that is closest to the port on the side that forms the inflow port becomes the port on the outflow port. The other side port that is closest to the one side port that forms the outflow port becomes the inflow port.

7. The flow path switching valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core includes: A side valve section, wherein at least a portion of the side flow path is formed; The other valve section, which forms at least a portion of the other flow path; and An intermediate valve section is disposed between the one-side valve section and the other-side valve section, and forms at least a portion of the axial flow path.

8. The flow path switching valve as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The one-sided port group has four one-sided ports. The other side port group has four other side ports.

Images