Electric valve

Abstract

The invention provides an electric valve. An electrically operated valve (100) is provided with: a first valve body (83) formed in a cylindrical shape and having a valve opening (85) and a first central axis (X5); a second valve body (84) formed in a cylindrical shape and having a valve opening (86) and a second central axis (X6); and a first engagement section (81) that is disposed coaxially with the first central axis (X5) and that does not rotate relative to the first valve body (83). The first valve body (83) and the second valve body (84) are disposed such that the first central axis (X5) and the second central axis (X6) are coaxial, and the second valve body (84) has a second engagement section (91) formed in a shape in which the first engagement section (81) can engage. The first valve body (83) and the second valve body (84) can be combined at relative angles in a plurality of rotation directions by taking the first central axis (X5) and the second central axis (X6) as rotation centers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electric valve for adjusting the flow rate of fluids. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, as described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-218763, electric valves were used to adjust the flow rate according to specified conditions. The electric valve in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-218763 has an inlet for cooling fluid, i.e., cooling water, and multiple outlets for discharging the incoming cooling water. The cooling water is supplied to each device through pipes connected to each outlet. The electric valve in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-218763 is installed in the cylinder head of an automotive engine and introduces cooling water into the valve assembly through the inlet.

[0003] The electric valve disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-218763 includes a motor and a valve mechanism comprising a valve core controlled by the motor via a reduction gear. Cooling water is supplied from the electric valve to a heating heat exchanger, oil cooler, and radiator, and the supply of cooling water to the electric valve is controlled by the valve core. The valve core is electrically controlled by an onboard electronic controller based on the cooling water temperature and vehicle operating status, opening and closing the valve core to supply the introduced cooling water to the heating heat exchanger, oil cooler, and radiator.

[0004] The valve core is cylindrical and has two valve opening systems to deliver cooling water to various devices. These valve openings are offset from the central axis on the outer circumference of the valve core. The valve core rotates as a single unit using a motor, causing both valve opening systems to rotate and move in the same direction. Therefore, the relative angle of rotation and the size of each valve opening are determined by controlling the opening and closing of the dual valve opening systems according to the cooling water temperature. With this structure, the electric valve can deliver cooling water to each device at the optimal time.

[0005] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-218763 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve However, the relative positions and rotational lengths of the multiple valve openings in the valve core vary depending on the vehicle equipped with the electric valve and the type of device connected to the electric valve. Therefore, each valve core needs to be manufactured separately for each valve opening with a different relative angle of rotation, which requires considerable effort in development and manufacturing.

[0007] The present invention was made to eliminate the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide an electric valve manufactured in a manner in which the position of the valve opening can be easily changed.

[0008] Methods for solving problems The electric valve of the present invention comprises: a first valve core formed in a cylindrical shape and having a valve opening and a first central axis; a second valve core formed in a cylindrical shape and having a valve opening and a second central axis; and a first engaging portion configured to be coaxial with the first central axis and not to rotate relative to the first valve core, the first valve core and the second valve core being configured such that the first central axis and the second central axis are coaxial, the second valve core having a second engaging portion formed such that the first engaging portion can engage at relative angles in multiple rotational directions centered on the first central axis and the second central axis.

[0009] The electric valve of the present invention allows the first engaging portion to engage with the second engaging portion at relative angles in multiple rotational directions. Therefore, the first valve core, which does not rotate relative to the first engaging portion, is also mounted at relative angles in multiple rotational directions. Thus, it is possible to manufacture an electric valve in a manner where the positions of the valve openings of the first and second valve cores can be easily changed.

[0010] Furthermore, in the electric valve of the present invention, it is preferable that either the first engaging portion or the second engaging portion has a first engaging element protruding from one side toward the other side on the surface in contact with the other, and the other engaging portion has a second engaging element recessed in a manner that allows the first engaging element to engage with the first engaging element on the surface in contact with the first engaging portion.

[0011] According to the electric valve of the present invention, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion can be formed by a simple shape of protrusions and recesses, allowing them to engage at relative angles in multiple rotational directions with the first central axis and the second central axis as rotation centers. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture an electric valve in a manner in which the position of the valve opening can be easily changed.

[0012] Furthermore, preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the first engaging portion of the electric valve of the present invention, which is perpendicular to the first central axis, is polygonal.

[0013] By setting the cross-sectional shape of the first engaging portion of the electric valve of the present invention to a polygon, the engaging shape of the first engaging portion can be formed from a plane that is easy to process, thus making the first engaging portion easy to manufacture. In addition, since the corners of the polygon become protrusions, the protrusions have higher mechanical strength.

[0014] In addition, preferably, the first valve core of the electric valve of the present invention is formed into a cylindrical shape with a diameter smaller than that of the second valve core, and the first engaging portion is a protruding portion integrally formed with the first valve core.

[0015] When the first valve core of the electric valve of the present invention is formed into a cylindrical shape with a diameter smaller than that of the second valve core, the flow path area inside the cylindrical shape of the first valve core can be easily ensured by setting the first engaging portion as a protruding portion integrally formed with the first valve core.

[0016] Furthermore, in the electric valve of the present invention, it is preferable that a central hole is formed coaxially with the first central axis on the first valve core, and the central hole is formed in a shape in which the first engaging portion can engage at relative angles in multiple rotational directions centered on the first central axis, and the first engaging portion is a rotational shaft that is embedded in the aforementioned central hole and the second engaging portion.

[0017] In the electric valve of the present invention, a central hole is formed coaxially with a first central axis on a first valve core, and a first engaging portion is a rotating shaft that is inserted into the central hole and a second engaging portion. Therefore, a rotating shaft that drives the rotation of the first and second valve cores can be used as the first engaging portion, enabling the electric valve to be constructed efficiently. Thus, it is possible to manufacture an electric valve in a manner where the position of the valve opening can be easily changed.

[0018] Brief description of the attached diagram Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of a cooling system for an electric valve according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A vertical sectional view of an electric valve.

[0020] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of the first valve core and the second valve core of the electric valve.

[0021] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the central axis of the electric valve.

[0022] Figure 5 It means Figure 1 A top view of the relative angles between the rotation directions of the first valve core and the second valve core of the electric valve.

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A vertical cross-sectional view of the first engaging portion of the electric valve.

[0024] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A vertical cross-sectional view of the second engagement portion of the electric valve.

[0025] Figure 8 It means Figure 1 A vertical sectional view of a modified example of the first engagement portion of an electric valve.

[0026] Figure 9 It means Figure 1 A vertical sectional view of a modified example of the second engagement part of an electric valve.

[0027] Figure 10 It means Figure 1 A vertical sectional view of other variations of the first engagement portion of the electric valve.

[0028] Figure 11 It means Figure 1 A vertical sectional view of other variations of the second engagement portion of the electric valve. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The electric valve 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 This is an overall schematic diagram of the cooling system of the electric valve 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a vertical sectional view of the electric valve 100.

[0030] Reference Figure 1 This describes an automotive cooling system using an electric valve 100. The electric valve 100 can be used as a flow control valve in a cooling system, for example, in an automotive cooling system. The electric valve 100 used in an automotive cooling system is, for example, mounted on the cylinder head CH of an internal combustion engine (ENG) in a vehicle. Cooling water, a fluid from the cooling system pressurized by a water pump WP located in the ENG, is introduced into the electric valve 100. The electric valve 100 adjusts and distributes the cooling water supplied to the radiator (RAD) and the cooling water utilization device. The electric valve 100 has a valve core 80, which adjusts the flow rate of the cooling water delivered from the electric valve 100. It should be noted that... Figure 2 The up and down directions in the text are explained as the up and down directions of the electric valve 100.

[0031] The electric valve 100 has a flow path that directs coolant to the radiator RAD. This flow path is the second flow path B. The automotive cooling system controls the opening and closing of the electric valve 100 via a control device (not shown). In addition to controlling the opening and closing based on the coolant temperature Tx, the electric valve 100 is also controlled based on factors such as the vehicle's driving status.

[0032] Cooling water introduced into the electric valve 100 is sent to the radiator RAD, which serves as a radiator, and multiple cooling water utilization devices. Cooling water utilization devices include, for example, heaters (HT), transmissions (TM) such as AT or CVT, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) devices, which are necessary equipment required for vehicles.

[0033] A pipe L1 connects the electric valve 100 and the radiator RAD. Cooling water flowing to the radiator RAD is delivered from the electric valve 100 through the inlet pipe L1. The radiator RAD is equipped with a fan FAN for cooling. Cooling water cools down as it passes through the interior of the radiator RAD. The cooling water that has passed through the radiator RAD returns to the internal combustion engine ENG through the return pipe L1.

[0034] The electric valve 100 supplies cooling water to the heater HT, transmission TM, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) unit via inlet pipes L2, L3, and L4. The cooling water passing through each cooling water utilization device returns to the internal combustion engine ENG via return pipes L2, L3, and L4. The returning cooling water to the ENG is pressurized by the water pump WP and re-sent out, circulating between the radiator RAD and each cooling water utilization device. The cooling water utilization devices may not include all of the aforementioned devices, or may include any one or more of them. Alternatively, it may include devices other than the aforementioned cooling water utilization devices, such as an oil cooler. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, piping L2, L3 and L4 have shared portions on both the feed side and the return side, but piping L2, L3 and L4 can also be set up independently as piping with no shared portions at all.

[0035] Reference Figure 2 The structure of the electric valve 100 will be described. The electric valve 100 includes a housing 10 forming the main body of the electric valve 100, a motor (not shown), a reduction gear 66, and a valve core 80, all housed within the housing 10.

[0036] Reference Figure 2 The housing 10 will be described below. The housing 10 includes a first outlet 11 that supplies cooling water to the radiator RAD, a second outlet 12 and a third outlet 13 that supply cooling water to various cooling water utilization devices, and an inlet 18 that supplies cooling water to the internal combustion engine ENG. Furthermore, the housing 10 includes a valve housing 20, a motor housing (not shown), and a reduction gear housing 27. The motor housing 26 is located on the side of the valve housing 20, and the reduction gear housing 27 is located on the upper part of the valve housing 20. The electric valve 100 fixes the lower surface of the valve housing 20 to the cylinder head CH.

[0037] The housing 10 is integrally formed using a resin material. The housing 10 is formed from a resin material or a lightweight metal material, thereby easily forming the electric valve 100. Therefore, fuel consumption in vehicles equipped with the electric valve 100 can be reduced. Alternatively, any one of the valve housing 20, motor housing 26, and reduction gear housing 27 can be formed separately, or formed separately and assembled. Alternatively, any one or more of the valve housing 20, motor housing 26, and reduction gear housing 27 can be formed using a material other than resin, such as aluminum alloy.

[0038] Reference Figure 2 The first outlet 11 and the second outlet 12, which serve as outlets for cooling water, will be described below. A first connector 23 is fixed to the first outlet 11, and a second connector 24 is fixed to the second outlet 12. The first connector 23 and the second connector 24 are components having a hollow cylindrical portion for connection to any one or more of the pipes L1 to L4. One end 31 of the first connector 23 is inserted into the first opening 14 of the first outlet 11. One end 32 of the second connector 24 is inserted into the second opening 15 of the second outlet 12.

[0039] An unshown pipe L1 is connected to the open end of the first connector 23 to supply cooling water to the radiator RAD. An unshown pipe L2 is connected to the open end of the second connector 24 to supply cooling water to any one of the cooling water utilization devices, such as the heater HT. The cooling water utilization device connected to the second connector 24 can be appropriately selected depending on the vehicle equipped with the electric valve 100, for example, it can also be connected to the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) device. In addition, the cooling water utilization devices connected to the second connector 24 can be individual or more connected via a bifurcation pipe branching off from the flow path.

[0040] One end 31 of the first connector 23 and one end 32 of the second connector 24 each have a sealing device including a seal and a spring. One end 31 of the first connector 23 has a seal 33 and a spring 76, and one end 32 of the second connector 24 has a seal 37 and a spring 77. The seals 33 and 37 are formed of an elastic material, such as resin or rubber.

[0041] One end portion 31, 32 is formed into a cylindrical shape with an opening. Springs 76, 77 are inserted into the openings of one end portion 31, 32, and the outer diameters of springs 76, 77 are respectively formed to be slightly smaller than the inner diameters of one end portion 31, 32. Annular surfaces perpendicular to the central axes X1, X2 of one end portion 31, 32 are respectively provided on the inner surfaces of the openings of one end portion 31, 32.

[0042] A cylindrical component 34 is disposed between one end 31 and the valve core 80, and a cylindrical component 38 is disposed between one end 32 and the valve core 80. The cylindrical components 34 and 38 respectively contact corresponding portions of the valve core 80. The cylindrical components 34 and 38 are installed such that they abut against one end of springs 76 and 77, respectively. That is, the cylindrical components 34 and 38 are pressed against the corresponding curved surfaces of the valve core 80 by springs 76 and 77. Therefore, even when the valve core 80 is rotating, the cylindrical components 34 and 38, under the force of springs 76 and 77, will maintain contact with the valve core 80. Therefore, the cooling water flowing out of the valve core 80 will not leak due to the presence of the cylindrical components 34 and 38 and the seals 33 and 37, and can flow within the first coupling 23 and the second coupling 24, respectively.

[0043] Reference Figure 2 The abutment portion 17 located at the lower part of the valve housing 20 will be described. A cylinder head opening OP is provided on the cylinder head CH of the internal combustion engine ENG, opening upwards. The abutment portion 17 has a flat surface capable of abutting against the mounting portion of the cylinder head CH of the housing 10. An inflow portion 18 corresponding to the opening shape of the cylinder head opening OP is provided on the abutment portion 17. The electric valve 100 abuts against the upper surface of the cylinder head CH when the inflow portion 18 is aligned with the cylinder head opening OP, and is fixed to the cylinder head CH using bolts (not shown). The inflow portion 18 is an opening formed on the abutment portion 17.

[0044] The contact portion 17 has a seal 19, which is arranged to surround the outside of the inlet portion 18 on the contact portion 17. The cooling water pressurized by the water pump WP is sealed by the seal 19, so that the cooling water is introduced into the inlet portion 18 from the cylinder head opening OP of the internal combustion engine ENG without leakage.

[0045] The electric valve 100 has an internal space 22 that communicates with the inflow section 18 and extends to the upper part of the valve receiving section 20. The valve core 80 is housed in the internal space 22.

[0046] The motor (not shown) is housed in a sealed space located on the side of the valve housing 20, i.e., within the motor housing (not shown). Additionally, as... Figure 2As shown, the reduction gear 66 is housed within a reduction gear housing 27 formed on the upper part of the electric valve 100. The reduction gear housing 27 is a sealed space enclosed by the upper cover 28. The reduction gear 66 has multiple gears 67, forming a multi-stage reduction mechanism from the first-stage gear 67 to the final-stage gear 67, which are driven by the input motor 65. The multiple gears 67 are composed of spur gears with different diameters and numbers of teeth, and are rotatably supported by rotating shafts (not shown) arranged parallel to each other.

[0047] A rotating shaft 87 of the valve core 80 is embedded in a fitting hole located in the center of the final stage gear 67. An output shaft (not shown) of a motor (not illustrated) is embedded in a fitting hole located in the center of the first stage gear 67. The rotation of the motor (not illustrated) is controlled by a control device, and the rotational torque is transmitted through a reduction gear 66. The rotational force transmitted to the final stage gear 67 causes the valve core 80 to rotate a predetermined angle in one direction or the other.

[0048] The reduction gear 66 can also be configured with a structure other than that described above. The shape, size, number of teeth, orientation of the rotation shaft, and arrangement within the reduction gear housing 27 related to the multiple gears 67 constituting the reduction gear 66 can be appropriately determined according to the required output torque, the size of the reduction gear housing 27, etc.

[0049] A support portion 40 is embedded in the inlet portion 18. The support portion 40 is a component that supports the lower end of the rotating shaft 87. The support portion 40 has a plurality of rod-shaped portions 41 and a central portion 43 whose central axis is coaxial with the rotating shaft 87. The support portion 40 is formed such that, when viewed from above, the rod-shaped portions 41 radiate outward from the central portion 43. The support portion 40 is formed in a generally Y-shape with three rod-shaped portions 41 arranged at 120-degree intervals around the center of the central portion 43.

[0050] The rod-shaped portions 41 are arranged within the space for the flow of cooling water; therefore, each rod-shaped portion 41 possesses the required strength and is relatively thin. There may be more than three rod-shaped portions 41. For example, two rod-shaped portions 41 may be arranged at 180-degree intervals around the center of the central portion 43, with the support portion 40 forming an I-shape. Alternatively, four rod-shaped portions 41 may be arranged at 90-degree intervals around the center of the central portion 43, with the support portion 40 forming a cross shape.

[0051] (Structure of valve core 80) Reference Figure 3 Explain the structure of valve core 80. Figure 3This is a perspective view of a valve core 80 having a first valve core 83 and a second valve core 84. The valve core 80 includes a first valve core 83, a second valve core 84, and a rotating shaft 87. The valve core 80 is an opening and closing valve that operates using the driving force of a motor 65 transmitted via a reduction gear 66. The valve core 80 is housed within the internal space 22 of the valve housing 20. The valve core 80 includes a first valve core 83 having a first central axis X5 and a second valve core 84 having a second central axis X6. The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 are formed such that their respective outer peripheral surfaces protrude in an arc shape when viewed from the side. The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 are arranged coaxially and in contact with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6. The coaxially arranged first central axis X5 and second central axis X6 constitute the central axis X3 of the valve core 80.

[0052] The electric valve 100 of the present invention includes a valve core 80 and a motor (not shown) for driving the valve core 80.

[0053] The second valve core 84, located on the lower side of the valve core 80, is situated on the extension line of the first connector 23 along its length. Additionally, the first valve core 85, located on the upper side of the valve core 80, is situated on the extension line of the second connector 24 along its length. Each of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 has a valve opening 85 and a valve opening 86, respectively, communicating with the internal space of the valve core 80. The valve openings 85 and 86 are elongated openings formed along the circumferential direction, and when viewed from above, they open at a predetermined angle range on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84, centered on their respective central axes X5 and X6.

[0054] The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 are configured to rotate integrally using the driving force of the rotating shaft 87 of the reduction gear 66. On the other hand, the temperature range of the radiator RAD connected to the electric valve 100 and the cooling water supplied to each cooling water utilization device varies depending on the individual cooling water utilization device. Therefore, the opening angles of the elongated holes of the valve openings 85 and 86, as well as the circumferential opening ranges of the outer peripheral surfaces of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84, are determined so that the valve's open / closed state is optimal for each of the radiator RAD and cooling water utilization devices.

[0055] The first valve core 83 has a first engaging portion 81, which is a portion that is coaxial with and protrudes from the first central axis X5. The second valve core 84 has a second engaging portion 91, which is configured to be coaxial with the second central axis X6 and capable of engaging with the first engaging portion 81. The first valve core 83 is connected by engaging the protruding first engaging portion 81 with the second engaging portion 91.

[0056] exist Figure 7The diagram shows a second engaging portion 91 corresponding to the first engaging portion 81. The second engaging portion 91 has a central hole 92 into which the first engaging portion 81 can be inserted. The cross-sectional shape of the central hole 92, perpendicular to the first central axis X5, is formed as a regular decagon, which is composed of 10 surface portions 99 corresponding to the first engaging portion 81. The central hole 92 is formed as a through hole of the same length as the portion into which the first engaging portion 81 is inserted. The second engaging portion 91 is formed by the central hole 92, and a second engaging element 98 (a corner of the regular decagon) is disposed between each two adjacent surface portions 99. It should be noted that the central hole 92 may also be formed as being longer than the portion into which the first engaging portion 81 is inserted. Alternatively, the central hole 92 may be a non-through hole closed on one side. The first engaging portion 81 is formed in a shape that allows it to engage with the second engaging portion 91 at angular positions in multiple rotational directions, centered on the second central axis X5 of the second engaging portion 91.

[0057] The first engaging portion 81 of the electric valve 100 of the present invention is a protruding portion integrally formed with the first valve core 83. Therefore, the first engaging portion 81 can easily and reliably engage with the second valve core 84 at any relative angle in any rotational direction. Therefore, the electric valve 100 can be manufactured in a manner in which the positions of the valve openings 85 and 86 can be easily changed.

[0058] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 This describes the engagement state of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the rotating shaft 87. The valve core 80 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape with an internal space, and has a first engaging portion 81 with a central hole 82 and a rotating shaft 87 embedded in the central hole 82. In addition to the first engaging portion 81, the interior of the valve core 80 also forms a space constituting a flow path for cooling water. The rotating shaft 87 is embedded in the central hole 82 with the first engaging portion 81 engaged with the second engaging portion 91, driving the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 to rotate. The shapes of the central hole 82 and the portion of the rotating shaft 87 that abuts against the central hole 82 are formed to allow them to fit together. Figure 4 As shown, the fitting portion 78 of the rotating shaft 87 is formed with the following shape: the outer peripheral surface, which has a circular cross-section, is cut away from the portion exposed by a pair of opposing parallel planes; in other words, it is formed such that the pair of opposing parallel planes are connected at both ends by an arc. The outer surface of the fitting portion 78 is formed with a pair of parallel planes, thereby allowing the rotating shaft 87 to fit into the central hole 82 in a manner that prevents them from rotating relative to each other. Therefore, the rotating shaft 87 can transmit the rotational driving force to the central hole 82 without slippage.

[0059] It should be noted that the cross-sectional shape of the fitting portion 78 of the rotating shaft 87 can also be replaced by a so-called D-shaped cut cross-section, that is, a shape formed by cutting the outer circumferential surface of a circle with a plane parallel to the rotating shaft 87. In this case, the central hole 82 is also formed as a hole with a D-shaped cross-section for the rotating shaft 87 with a D-shaped cut cross-section to be inserted.

[0060] Reference Figure 5 The first engaging part 81 and the second engaging part 91 can engage at a relative angle F3 in multiple rotational directions centered on the second central axis X3. Figure 5 This is a top view showing the connection between the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84. In this figure, the valve opening 85 of the first valve core 83 is located on the right, and the valve opening 86 of the second valve core 84 is located on the left. The valve openings 85 and 86 are formed as elongated holes. If the rotational direction position of the central portion of the valve opening 85 of the first valve core 83 is set as E1, and the rotational direction position of the central portion of the valve opening 86 of the second valve core 84 is set as E2, then the relative angle between their rotational directions is F3. Figure 5 In this case, F3 is approximately 180 degrees. The electric valve 100 of the present invention, during the assembly of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84, can set the relative angle F3 between the rotational directions of the valve opening portion 85 of the first valve core 83 and the valve opening portion 86 of the second valve core 84 to a desired angle.

[0061] Reference Figure 3 The connection state of the first engaging part 81 and the second engaging part 91 will be described. The first engaging part 81 and the second engaging part 91 fix the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 so that they are at the desired relative angle F3 in the direction of rotation.

[0062] The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 are arranged coaxially with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6. A first engaging portion 81, coaxial with and protruding from the central axes X5 and X6 of either the first valve core 83 or the second valve core 84, is provided on the other valve core 83 or the other valve core 84. This second engaging portion 91 is formed to be coaxial with the central axes X5 and X6 of the other valve core and to engage with the first engaging portion 81.

[0063] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 The structure of the first engaging part 81 and the second engaging part 91 is explained. The cross-sectional shape of the first engaging part 81, which is perpendicular to the first central axis X5, is formed as a polygon. The polygon can be a regular polygon such as an equilateral triangle, a regular quadrilateral, a regular pentagon, or a regular hexagon.

[0064] Figure 6 The diagram shows a first engaging portion 81 with a cross-sectional shape of a regular decagon. The first engaging portion 81 has a central hole 82 at its center. The central hole 82 is a through hole of the same length as the portion into which the rotating shaft 87 is inserted. The first engaging portion 81 has first engaging elements 88 on its outer surface and surface portions 89 disposed between each of two adjacent first engaging elements 88. When the polygon is set to an n-sided polygon, n first engaging elements 88 and n surface portions 89 are provided. It should be noted that the central hole 82 may also be formed to be longer than the portion into which the rotating shaft 87 is inserted. Alternatively, the central hole 82 may be a non-through hole closed on one side. In this case, the rotating shaft 87 is supported by an end shaft on the other side.

[0065] The first engaging portion 81 of the electric valve 100 of the present invention has a polygonal cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the first central axis X5. Therefore, the engaging shape of the first engaging portion 81 can be formed using a plane that is easy to process, thereby making it easy to manufacture the first engaging portion 81. Therefore, the electric valve 100 can be manufactured in a manner in which the relative angle of the rotation direction of the valve openings 85 and 86 can be easily changed.

[0066] exist Figure 7 The diagram shows a second engaging portion 91 corresponding to the first engaging portion 81. The second engaging portion 91 has a central hole 92 into which the first engaging portion 81 can be inserted. The cross-sectional shape of the central hole 92, perpendicular to the first central axis X5, is formed as a regular decagon corresponding to the first engaging portion 81. The central hole 92 is formed as a through hole of the same length as the portion into which the first engaging portion 81 is inserted. The second engaging portion 91 has a second engaging element 98 in the central hole 92 and a surface portion 99 disposed between each of two adjacent second engaging elements 98. It should be noted that the central hole 92 may also be formed to be longer than the portion into which the first engaging portion 81 is inserted. Alternatively, the central hole 92 may be a non-through hole closed on one side.

[0067] The electric valve 100 of the present invention includes: a first valve core 83, which is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a valve opening 85 and a first central axis X5; a second valve core 84, which is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a valve opening 86 and a second central axis X6; and a first engaging portion 81, which is configured to be coaxial with the first central axis X5 and cannot rotate relative to the first valve core 83. The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 are arranged coaxially with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6. The second valve core 84 has a second engaging portion 91 formed in a shape that allows it to engage with the first engaging portion 81. The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be engaged at relative angles in multiple rotational directions with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6 as rotation centers. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture the electric valve 100 in a manner in which the relative angles in the rotational directions of the valve openings 85 and 86 of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be easily changed.

[0068] By selecting the relative angle of rotation when the first engaging part 81 and the second engaging part 91 engage, the relative angle F3 of rotation between the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be set to the desired relative angle F3. When the cross-section of the first engaging part 81 perpendicular to the first central axis X5 is formed as a regular decagon, the relative angle F3 of rotation can be adjusted every 360 degrees / 10 = 36 degrees. When the polygon of the cross-section is set to an n-sided polygon, the relative angle F3 of rotation can be adjusted every 360 degrees / n degrees. Although a larger number of n in the polygon makes processing more laborious, it allows for adjustments in more precise angular units.

[0069] In the electric valve 100 of the present invention, each of the first engaging portion 81 and the second engaging portion 91 has a first engaging element 88, 103, or 133 protruding from one side toward the other side on the surface in contact with the other. The other of the first engaging portion 81 and the second engaging portion 91 has a second engaging element 98, 113, or 123 recessed on the surface in contact with the first engaging element 88, 103, or 133. Therefore, the simple shape of the protrusion and the recess allows for a shape in which the first engaging portion 81 and the second engaging portion 91 can engage at relative angles in multiple rotational directions around a first central axis X5 and a second central axis X6. Therefore, the electric valve 100 can be manufactured in a manner where the positions of the valve openings 85 and 86 can be easily changed.

[0070] (Operation of valve core 80) Reference Figure 2 Explain the operation of valve core 80. Valve core 80 opens and closes according to the cooling water temperature Tx.

[0071] (Examples of variations of the first and second engaging parts) The engaging shapes of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion may also be shapes other than those described above. Hereinafter, first to fourth variations related to the engaging shapes of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion will be described.

[0072] (First variation) The first engaging portion 81 can also be formed on the rotating shaft 87, replacing the protruding portion integrally formed with the first valve core 83. The center hole 82 of the first valve core 83 and the second engaging portion 91 of the second valve core 84 can both be structures in which the rotating shaft 87 is inserted and directly supports the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 respectively. The engaging portion 78 of the rotating shaft 87 is provided in such a way that it covers the area abutted by the center hole 82 and the second engaging portion 91. The cross-sectional shape of the engaging portion 78 is formed such that it engages with the center hole 82 and the second engaging portion 91 without relative rotation. The cross-sectional shape of the engaging portion 78 can be a polygon including a regular polygon, a shape formed by cutting the outer peripheral surface of a circle with a pair of parallel planes, a D-shaped cut shape formed by cutting the outer peripheral surface of a circle with a single plane, etc. The hole shapes of the center hole 82 and the second engaging portion 91 can be formed to correspond to the hole shapes of the engaging portion 78.

[0073] In the electric valve 100 of the present invention, a central hole 82 is formed on the first valve core 83 coaxially with the first central axis X5, and the first engaging portion 81 is a rotating shaft 87 that is inserted into the central hole 82 and the second engaging portion 91. Therefore, the rotating shaft 87 that drives the rotation of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be used as the first engaging portion 81, and the electric valve 100 can be constructed efficiently. Therefore, the electric valve 100 can be manufactured in a manner in which the positions of the valve openings 85 and 86 can be easily changed. In addition, by setting the first engaging portion 81 as the rotating shaft 87, it is not necessary to form a protruding portion on the first valve core 83, and the first valve core 83 can be manufactured easily.

[0074] (Second variation) Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 The second variation is explained below. The second variation differs from the one described above. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The embodiments differ only in the shape of the first engaging portion 101 and the second engaging portion 111. The cross-sectional shape of the first engaging portion 101, which is perpendicular to the first central axis X5, is formed as a combination of a circle and multiple protrusions.

[0075] exist Figure 8The diagram shows a first engaging portion 101. The cross-sectional shape of the first engaging portion 101, perpendicular to the first central axis X5, is formed with a plurality of protrusions, namely first engaging elements 103, evenly spaced on a circular circumference. The first engaging portion 101 has a central hole 82 at its center. The central hole 82 is formed as a through hole of the same length as the portion into which the rotating shaft 87 is inserted. The first engaging portion 101 has a plurality of first engaging elements 103 on its outer surface and a surface portion 105 disposed between each of two adjacent first engaging elements 103. It should be noted that the central hole 82 may also be formed to be longer than the length of the portion into which the rotating shaft 87 is inserted. Alternatively, the central hole 82 may be a non-through hole closed on one side.

[0076] exist Figure 9 The diagram shows a second engaging portion 111 corresponding to the first engaging portion 101. The second engaging portion 111 has a central hole 112 into which the first engaging portion 101 can be inserted. The cross-sectional shape of the central hole 112, perpendicular to the first central axis X6, is formed as follows: a shape combining a circle and second engaging elements 113 as multiple recesses, corresponding to the first engaging portion 101. The central hole 112 is formed as a through hole of the same length as the portion into which the first engaging portion 101 is inserted. The second engaging portion 111 has second engaging elements 113 in the central hole 112 and a surface portion 115 disposed between each of two adjacent second engaging elements 113. It should be noted that the central hole 112 may also be formed to be longer than the portion into which the first engaging portion 101 is inserted. Alternatively, the central hole 112 may also be a non-through hole closed on one side. In addition, the top part of the first engaging element 103 and the innermost part of the second engaging element 113 can have the same outline shape, which can be an arc or an acute angle shape where planes intersect at an acute angle.

[0077] By selecting the second engaging element 113 of the second engaging part 111 into which the first engaging element 103 of the first engaging part 101 is respectively inserted, the relative angle F3 of the rotational direction between the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be set to the desired relative angle F3 of the rotational direction. When, for example, eight sets of first engaging elements 103 and second engaging elements 113 are provided, the relative angle F3 of the rotational direction can be selected every 360 degrees / 8 = 45 degrees. When the number of sets of first engaging elements 103 and second engaging elements 113 is set to n sets, the relative angle F3 of the rotational direction can be selected every 360 degrees / n degrees. Although a larger number of n results in more processing time, it allows for the selection of the relative angle F3 of the rotational direction from a wider range of options, and the adjustment of the relative angle F3 at smaller intervals.

[0078] (Third variation) Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The third variation is explained below. The third variation differs from the one described above. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The embodiments differ only in the shape of the first engaging portion 121 and the second engaging portion 131. The cross-sectional shape of the first engaging portion 121, which is perpendicular to the first central axis X5, is formed as a combination of a circle and multiple recesses.

[0079] exist Figure 10 The diagram shows a first engaging portion 121. The cross-sectional shape of the first engaging portion 121, perpendicular to the first central axis X5, is formed with a plurality of recesses, namely second engaging elements 123, evenly spaced on a circular circumference. The first engaging portion 121 has a central hole 82 at its center. The central hole 82 is formed as a through hole of the same length as the portion into which the rotating shaft 87 is inserted. The first engaging portion 121 has a plurality of second engaging elements 123 on its outer surface and a surface portion 125 disposed between each of two adjacent second engaging elements 123. It should be noted that the central hole 82 may also be formed to be longer than the length of the portion into which the rotating shaft 87 is inserted. Alternatively, the central hole 82 may be a non-through hole closed on one side. In this case, the rotating shaft 87 is supported by the housing 10 shaft at the other end.

[0080] exist Figure 11 The diagram shows a second engaging portion 131 corresponding to the first engaging portion 121. The second engaging portion 131 has a central hole 132 into which the first engaging portion 121 can be inserted. The cross-sectional shape of the central hole 132, perpendicular to the first central axis X6, is formed to combine a circle and multiple protrusions, i.e., first engaging elements 133, corresponding to the first engaging portion 101. The central hole 132 is formed as a through hole of the same length as the portion into which the first engaging portion 121 is inserted. The second engaging portion 131 has second engaging elements 133 within the central hole 132 and a surface portion 135 disposed between each of two adjacent second engaging elements 133. It should be noted that the central hole 132 may also be formed to be longer than the portion into which the first engaging portion 121 is inserted. Alternatively, the central hole 132 may be a non-through hole closed on one side. In addition, the outline shapes of the innermost part of the first engaging element 123 and the top part of the second engaging element 133 can both be outline shapes, which can be arc shapes or acute angle shapes where planes intersect at acute angles.

[0081] By selecting the second engaging element 123 of the first engaging part 121 into which the first engaging element 133 of the second engaging part 131 is respectively inserted, the relative angle F3 of rotational direction between the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be set to the desired relative angle F3 of rotational direction. When, for example, eight sets of first engaging elements 133 and second engaging elements 123 are provided, the relative angle F3 of rotational direction can be selected every 360 degrees / 8 = 45 degrees. When the number of sets of first engaging elements 133 and second engaging elements 123 is set to n sets, the relative angle F3 of rotational direction can be selected every 360 degrees / n degrees. Although a larger number of n results in more processing work, it allows for adjustments in more precise angular units.

[0082] (Fourth variation) Although not illustrated, the above description Figure 6 and Figure 7 The shapes of the first engaging portion 81 and the second engaging portion 91 can be modified as follows. The cross-sectional shape of the first engaging portion 81 can also be a polygon other than a regular polygon. For example, in Figure 6 Alternatively, the first engaging portion can be configured as an octagonal cross-section cut by a straight line, wherein the straight line is a line segment connecting two adjacent first engaging elements 88a and 88b on opposite corners, i.e., the two sides of the first engaging element 88c. And it can be used directly. Figure 7 The second engaging portion 91 shown makes the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion 91 engage in a mutually engaging shape. Alternatively, the first engaging portion can also be provided with a rectangular cross-sectional shape. In this engaging shape, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion can also engage in each other at a relative angle F3 in multiple rotational directions with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6 as rotation centers. By reducing the number of corner portions of the first engaging portion, it is easier to manufacture the first engaging portion.

[0083] The electric valve 100 of the present invention includes: a first valve core 83, which is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a valve opening portion 85 and a first central axis X5; a second valve core 84, which is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a valve opening portion 86 and a second central axis X6; and a first engaging portion 81, which is configured to be coaxial with the first central axis X5 and not to rotate relative to the first valve core 83. The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 are arranged in a manner coaxial with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6. The second valve core 84 has a second engaging portion 91 formed in a shape that can engage with the first engaging portion 81. The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be engaged at relative angles in multiple rotational directions with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6 as the rotation center.

[0084] The electric valve 100 of the present invention includes: a first valve core 83, which is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a valve opening 85 and a first central axis X5; a second valve core 84, which is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a valve opening 86 and a second central axis X6; and a first engaging portion 81, which is configured to be coaxial with the first central axis X5 and not to rotate relative to the first valve core 83. The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 are arranged coaxially with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6. The second valve core 84 has a second engaging portion 91 formed in a shape that allows it to engage with the first engaging portion 81. The first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be engaged at relative angles in multiple rotational directions with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6 as rotation centers. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture the electric valve 100 in a manner in which the relative angles in the rotational directions of the valve openings 85 and 86 of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be easily changed.

[0085] Furthermore, preferably, in the electric valve 100 of the present invention, either the first engaging portion 81 or the second engaging portion 91 has a first engaging element 88, 103, or 133 protruding from one side to the other side on the surface in contact with the other, and the other engaging portion 81 or the second engaging portion has a second engaging element 98, 113, or 123 recessed on the surface in contact with the first engaging element in a manner that allows the first engaging element to engage.

[0086] In the electric valve 100 of the present invention, each of the first engaging portion 81 and the second engaging portion 91 has a first engaging element 88, 103, or 133 protruding from one side toward the other side on the surface in contact with the other. The other of the first engaging portion 81 and the second engaging portion 91 has a second engaging element 98, 113, or 123 recessed on the surface in contact with the first engaging element 88, 103, or 133, which engages with the first engaging element 88, 103, or 133. Therefore, the simple shape of the protrusion and the recess can be used to form a shape in which the first engaging portion 81 and the second engaging portion 91 can engage at relative angles in multiple rotational directions with the first central axis X5 and the second central axis X6 as rotation centers. Therefore, the electric valve 100 can be manufactured in a manner in which the positions of the valve openings 85 and 86 can be easily changed.

[0087] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the first engaging portion 81 of the electric valve 100 of the present invention, which is perpendicular to the first central axis X5, is preferably polygonal.

[0088] The first engaging portion 81 of the electric valve 100 of the present invention has a polygonal cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the first central axis X5. Therefore, the engaging shape of the first engaging portion 81 can be formed from a plane that is easy to process, thereby making it easy to manufacture the first engaging portion 81. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture the electric valve 100 in a manner that allows for easy changing of the relative angle of the rotational directions of the valve openings 85 and 86.

[0089] In addition, preferably, the first engaging portion 81 of the electric valve 100 of the present invention is a protruding portion integrally formed with the first valve core 83.

[0090] The first engaging portion 81 of the electric valve 100 of the present invention is a protruding portion integrally formed with the first valve core 83. Therefore, the first engaging portion 81, which protrudes from the position adjacent to the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84, can easily and reliably engage with the second valve core 84 at any relative angle in any rotational direction. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture the electric valve 100 in a manner that allows for easy changes in the position of the valve openings 85 and 86.

[0091] Furthermore, in the electric valve 100 of the present invention, it is preferable that a central hole 82 is formed on the first valve core 83 coaxially with the first central axis X5, and the first engaging portion 81 is a rotating shaft 87 that is embedded in the central hole 82 and the second engaging portion 92.

[0092] In the electric valve 100 of the present invention, a central hole 82 is formed coaxially with a first central axis X5 on the first valve core 83, and a first engaging portion 81 is a rotating shaft 87 that is inserted into the central hole 82 and the second engaging portion 91. Therefore, the rotating shaft 87 that drives the rotation of the first valve core 83 and the second valve core 84 can be used as the first engaging portion 81, and the electric valve 100 can be constructed efficiently. Therefore, it is possible to manufacture the electric valve 100 in a manner that allows for easy modification of the positions of the valve openings 85 and 86.

[0093] In addition, the electric valve 100 of the present invention preferably includes a motor (not shown) for driving the valve core 80.

[0094] The electric valve 100 of the present invention includes a motor (not shown) that drives the valve core 80. Therefore, the electric valve 100 can be easily configured to engage at relative angles in multiple rotational directions. Thus, the electric valve 100 can be manufactured in a manner in which the relative angles of the rotational directions of the valve openings 85 and 86 can be easily changed.

[0095] (Other implementation methods) The electric valve of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and appropriate modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the electric valve 100 can also be applied to devices other than vehicles that only have an internal combustion engine ENG as a drive source, and can be applied to fluid-cooled vehicle devices such as the internal combustion engine ENG of a hybrid vehicle, the drive force generating motor of an electric vehicle, or devices other than vehicles.

[0096] Furthermore, the electric valve 100 of the present invention may also include a bypass passage with a thermostat. Additionally, the materials of the components, the locations of the piping, and the configuration of the devices in the piping path described in the above embodiments of the present invention can be appropriately modified.

[0097] Symbol Explanation 10: Housing; 11: First outlet; 12: Second outlet; 13: Third outlet; 18: Inlet; 22: Internal space; 23: First connector; 24: Second connector; 25: Third connector; 31, 32: One end; 34, 38: Cylindrical component; 40: Support; 41: Rod-shaped part; 43: Central part; 65: Motor; 66: Reduction gear; 80: Valve core; 81: First engaging part; 82: Center hole; 83: First valve core; 84: Second valve core Core, 85, 86: Valve opening, 87: Rotating shaft, 88, 103, 133: First engaging element, 91: Second engaging part, 98, 113, 123: Second engaging element, 100: Electric valve, 112: Center hole, T1: First temperature, T2: Second temperature, Tx: Fluid temperature (cooling water temperature), ENG: Internal combustion engine, CH: Cylinder head, WP: Water pump, RAD: Radiator, HT: Heater, TM: Transmission, EGR: Exhaust gas recirculation device.

Claims

1. An electric valve comprising: a first valve core formed in a cylindrical shape and having a valve opening and a first central axis; a second valve core formed in a cylindrical shape and having a valve opening and a second central axis; and a first engaging portion configured to be coaxial with the first central axis and not to rotate relative to the first valve core, characterized in that... The first valve core and the second valve core are configured such that the first central axis and the second central axis are coaxial. The second valve core has a second engaging portion, which is formed such that the first engaging portion can engage at relative angles in multiple rotational directions centered on the first central axis and the second central axis.

2. The motorized valve of claim 1, wherein, Each of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion has a first engaging element protruding from the side of the first engaging portion toward the side of the second engaging portion on the surface that contacts the other engaging portion. The other of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion has a second engaging element formed by recessing on the surface that contacts the first engaging element in a manner that allows it to engage with the first engaging element.

3. The electric valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cross-sectional shape of the first engaging part perpendicular to the first central axis is polygonal.

4. The motorized valve of claim 3, wherein, The first valve core is formed into a cylindrical shape with a diameter smaller than that of the second valve core, and the first engaging portion is a protruding portion integrally formed with the first valve core.

5. The motorized valve of claim 3, wherein, A central hole is formed on the first valve core coaxially with the first central axis. The central hole is formed in a shape that allows the first engaging portion to engage at relative angles in multiple rotational directions centered on the first central axis. The first engaging portion is a rotational shaft that is embedded in the central hole and the second engaging portion.

6. The motorized valve according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, It has a motor that drives the first valve core and the second valve core.

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