Rotary disc valve

Abstract

A rotary disc valve for use in a fluid delivery system to control fluid flow between fluid lines connecting system elements. The valve includes a valve body that supports a fixed disk and receives a diverter having a movable disk. The diverter is configured to rotate relative to the valve body about an axis of rotation and cooperate with the stationary disc to control fluid flow through the valve body. The fixed disc and the movable disc have through openings that provide fluid flow through the valve according to a fluid flow-diverter position curve or set of curves.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] A rotary valve is a type of directional control valve used in fluid delivery systems to control and distribute fluid flow through the system. For example, a rotary valve can be used to control the flow of coolant through a vehicle coolant control system. The rotary valve may include a valve body and a diverter, the valve body defining fluid ports, and the diverter disposed within the valve body. The diverter is shaped to distribute flow to predetermined fluid ports, with certain rotational orientation of the diverter within the valve body, and the diverter rotates relative to the valve body to control the flow through the valve. In some conventional rotary disc valves, one or more discs are disposed within the valve body. The discs move relative to each other and cooperate to block or direct all or part of the flow to one or more ports in the valve body. In some applications, it may be desirable for a rotary disc valve to control fluid flow with specific flow characteristics. Summary of the Invention

[0002] A thermal management system for an electric vehicle may include a coolant control system having a disc-type rotary fluid valve that can be used by the thermal management system to direct coolant, for example, to cool a drive motor, a gas-filled heat exchanger, a battery, a power electronics module, a vehicle passenger compartment, and / or other vehicle components or systems requiring temperature control. For operational and packaging efficiency purposes, it may be useful to combine multiple components of the vehicle thermal management system into a single integrated module. Such a module may include the coolant control system, a refrigerant control system, or both. The coolant control system may include, for example, one or more circulation pumps, a fluid reservoir, one or more fluid valves, a coolant control system controller, sensors, a heat exchanger, etc. The housing of the module may include internal flow channels that allow fluid communication between various components of the system included in the module. A portion of the module housing may be configured to replace housing elements of certain components. For example, a portion of the module may be used to provide a cover for a fluid valve and / or a fluid valve assembly, whereby the fluid valve assembly is connected to the module housing. For other components, the module may be configured to allow the component to "insert" into a suitable configuration portion of the module housing.

[0003] Such complex fluid delivery systems may require rotary valves capable of controlling fluid flow between two, three, four, or more individual ports of the valve body. For example, multi-port rotary disc valves can be used in the coolant control systems of electric vehicles to control the flow of coolant fluid between the radiator, electric drive motor, battery, vehicle electronics, and / or one or more bypass lines. Furthermore, such valves may be required to output fluid with specific flow characteristics from one or more of the ports.

[0004] The rotary disc valve may include a valve body (e.g., a valve housing) providing a valve cavity, the valve body including an inlet port, a first outlet port, and a second outlet port, each of the inlet port, the first outlet port, and the second outlet port opening into the valve cavity. The valve may include a fixed disc disposed within the valve cavity and fixed relative to the valve body. The valve may include a flow divider disposed within the valve cavity. The flow divider includes a movable disc parallel to and adjacent to the fixed disc. The flow divider is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation relative to both the valve body and the fixed disc. The orientation of the flow divider including the movable disc about the axis of rotation relative to the fixed disc provides control of fluid flow from the inlet port to the first and second outlet ports. Furthermore, each of the movable disc and the fixed disc includes a through opening shaped and sized to output fluid with specific flow characteristics from one or more of the ports. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, the fluid flow from the inlet to the first outlet or the second outlet is controlled to allow fine control of the fluid flow volume within one range of valve opening amount and coarse control of the fluid flow volume within another range of valve opening amount.

[0005] Specifically, the valve controls the fluid flow such that fluid flows through the first outlet port according to a first flow-diverter position curve, the first flow-diverter position curve having a first curved portion and a second curved portion adjacent to the first curved portion. The first curved portion has a first slope, which is linear. The second curved portion has a second slope, which is linear. The absolute value of the second linear slope is greater than the absolute value of the first linear slope. Furthermore, fluid flows through the second outlet port according to a second flow-diverter position curve. The second flow-diverter position curve is a mirror image of the first flow-diverter position curve with respect to a predetermined flow rate. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined flow rate intersects the second curved portion of the first flow-diverter position curve.

[0006] In some applications, packaging requirements may limit the available space in the axial direction (e.g., in a direction parallel to the valve's axis of rotation). In such cases, the rotary disc valve described herein may be advantageous due to its low profile, for example, the diameter of the valve body being larger than its axial dimension. This is partly achieved by using a disc valve assembly and by positioning the inlet and outlet ports at the end faces of the valve body (e.g., at the valve seat end faces) rather than positioning one or more ports in the cylindrical sidewalls of the valve body.

[0007] In some aspects, the valve includes a valve body and a flow divider. The valve body has an inlet port and an outlet port, and the flow divider is rotatably disposed within the valve body. The flow divider is configured to control the flow through the valve body such that fluid flows through the first outlet port according to a flow rate-flow divider position curve, such that the rate of the fluid flow through the valve body can be adjusted with a first resolution for a flow divider position within a first position range, and with a second resolution for a flow divider position within a second position range, wherein the second resolution is coarser than the first resolution.

[0008] In some embodiments, the second position range does not overlap with the first position range, and each position within the second position range corresponds to a larger shunt position value than each position within the first position range.

[0009] In some aspects, the valve includes a valve body, a fixed disc, and a flow divider. The valve body has an inlet port, a first outlet port, and a second outlet port. The fixed disc is disposed within the valve body and fixed relative to the valve body. Furthermore, the flow divider is rotatably disposed within the valve body. The flow divider includes a movable disc parallel to the fixed disc and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation relative to the fixed disc. The flow divider cooperates with the fixed disc to control fluid flow from the inlet port to at least one of the first and second outlet ports, such that fluid flows through the first outlet port according to a first flow rate-flow divider position curve, the first flow rate-flow divider position curve having a first curved portion and a second curved portion adjacent to the first curved portion. The first curved portion has a first linear slope. The second curved portion has a second linear slope. The absolute value of the second linear slope is greater than the absolute value of the first linear slope. Furthermore, fluid flows through the second outlet port according to a second flow rate-flow divider position curve, and the second flow rate-flow divider position curve is a mirror image of the first flow rate-flow divider position curve with respect to a predetermined flow rate.

[0010] In some embodiments, the predetermined flow rate intersects with the second curve portion of the first flow rate-splitter location curve.

[0011] In some embodiments, the second curve portion does not overlap with the first curve portion. The fluid flow through the first outlet port results in a flow rate at each splitter location for the second curve portion that is less than the flow rate at each splitter location for the first curve portion. Furthermore, the fluid flow through the second outlet port results in a flow rate at each splitter location for the second curve portion that is greater than the flow rate at each splitter location for the first curve portion.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second curve portion of the first flow-splitter location curve intersects with the second curve portion of the second flow-splitter location curve.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second curve portion of the first flow-splitter location curve intersects the second curve portion of the second flow-splitter location curve at a splitter location within 85% to 95% of the full splitter location range.

[0014] In some embodiments, the predetermined flow rate is in the range of 8 (liters / minute) to 12 (liters / minute).

[0015] In some embodiments, the first flow-splitter location curve has the maximum flow at a splitter location within the range of 0% to 10% of the full splitter location range.

[0016] In some embodiments, the valve body includes a valve seat and a cover. The valve seat extends in a plane and includes an outer periphery surrounded by upright edges, and the cover includes a cylindrical sidewall and a cover portion that closes one end of the sidewall. The valve seat and the cover cooperate in a fluidly tight manner to define a valve cavity configured to receive the diverter and to be in fluid communication with the inlet port, the first outlet port, and the second outlet port.

[0017] In some embodiments, each of the inlet port, the first outlet port, and the second outlet port is formed in the valve seat.

[0018] In some embodiments, the diverter includes a driver and the movable disk. The movable disk is disposed on the valve seat-facing surface of the driver and configured to be driven to rotate by the driver.

[0019] In some embodiments, the diverter includes a driver and the movable disk. The movable disk is compressed between the valve seat-facing surface of the driver and the cover-facing surface of the fixed disk. The movable disk is driven by the driver to rotate.

[0020] In some embodiments, the actuator has a disc-shaped base disposed in the valve cavity, and the valve stem protrudes from a surface of the base facing the cover plate portion. The valve stem is configured to extend through an opening in the cover plate portion and be mechanically connected to the actuator. The valve stem has a centerline coinciding with the axis of rotation. Furthermore, the diverter is configured to control the fluid flow through the valve body based on the rotational orientation of the actuator relative to the valve body.

[0021] In some embodiments, the foot includes a plurality of foot through openings.

[0022] In some embodiments, the surface of the foot facing the cover plate portion has a protrusion configured to engage with a stop element of the cover to limit the degree of rotation of the actuator relative to the valve body.

[0023] In some embodiments, the fixed disc is supported on and fixed relative to the valve seat, a sealing element is disposed between the fixed disc and the valve seat, the sealing element provides a fluid tight seal between the fixed disc and the valve seat, and the surface of the fixed disc facing the cover plate faces and abuts the surface of the distributor facing the valve seat.

[0024] In some aspects, the valve includes a valve body, a fixed disc, and a flow divider. The valve body includes a first end, a second end, and a cylindrical sidewall extending between the first end and the second end. The first end, the second end, and the sidewall together form a valve cavity. The valve body also includes an inlet port, a first outlet port, and a second outlet port, the inlet port communicating with the valve cavity, the first outlet port communicating with the valve cavity, and the second outlet port communicating with the valve cavity. The fixed disc is fixed relative to the valve body and isolates the valve cavity into a first cavity portion and a second cavity portion. The fixed disc includes a fixed disc opening. The flow divider is rotatably disposed in the first cavity portion. The flow divider includes a movable disc adjacent to and rotatable relative to the fixed disc. The movable disc includes a movable disc opening. The fixed disc opening and the movable disc opening are configured such that the valve controls the flow of fluid through the valve body in a predetermined manner. In particular, fluid flows through the first outlet port according to a first flow rate-flow divider position curve. The first flow rate-flow divider position curve has a first curved portion and a second curved portion adjacent to the first curved portion. The first curve portion has a first linear slope, the second curve portion has a second linear slope, and the absolute value of the second linear slope is greater than the absolute value of the first linear slope. Furthermore, fluid flows through the second outlet port according to a second flow-splitter position curve, and the second flow-splitter position curve is a mirror image of the first flow-splitter position curve relative to a predetermined flow rate.

[0025] In some embodiments, each of the inlet port, the first outlet port, and the second outlet port is in communication with the second cavity. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the thermal management module, which includes multiple multi-port rotary disc valves.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the thermal management module, which is seen along a line that bisects one of the rotary disc valves.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the rotary disc valve, which is separated from the thermal management module.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a top perspective view of a portion of the valve body, showing the valve seat.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a top perspective view of the valve body cover.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a bottom perspective view of the valve body cover.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a top perspective view of the stacked arrangement of internal valve components, including a flow divider comprising an actuator and a movable disc, and also including a fixed disc and sealing elements.

[0033] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view of the stacked arrangement of the internal components of the valve, as along Figure 7 The view seen along the center line 8-8.

[0034] Figure 9 This is a top perspective exploded view of the stacked arrangement of the internal components of the valve.

[0035] Figure 10 This is a bottom perspective exploded view of the stacked arrangement of the internal components of the valve.

[0036] Figure 11 This is a top plan view of the fixed disk, with the three areas of the disk shown in dashed lines.

[0037] Figure 12 The chart illustrates the relationship between the flow rate (liters / minute) at each of the two fluid outlet ports of the rotary valve and the position of the distributor (percentage).

[0038] Figure 13 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative positions of the sealing element and the retaining disc relative to the distributor and cover when the distributor position is 0%.

[0039] Figure 14 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative position of the sealing element with respect to the distributor and cover when the distributor position is 0%.

[0040] Figure 15 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative positions of the splitter and the cover when the splitter position is 0%.

[0041] Figure 16 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative positions of the sealing element and the retaining disc with respect to the distributor and cover when the distributor position is 50%.

[0042] Figure 17 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative position of the sealing element with respect to the splitter and cover when the splitter position is 50%.

[0043] Figure 18 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative positions of the splitter and the cover when the splitter position is 50%.

[0044] Figure 19 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative positions of the sealing element and the retaining disc with respect to the distributor and cover when the distributor position is 100%.

[0045] Figure 20 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative position of the sealing element with respect to the distributor and cover when the distributor position is 100%.

[0046] Figure 21 This is a bottom plan view of the valve section, showing the relative positions of the splitter and the cover when the splitter position is 100%.

[0047] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the shunt in an alternative embodiment.

[0048] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of the splitter, as along Figure 22 View as seen from center line 23-23.

[0049] Figure 24 yes Figure 22 Top perspective exploded view of the splitter.

[0050] Figure 25 yes Figure 22 Bottom perspective view of the splitter.

[0051] Figure 26 yes Figure 22 Bottom plan view of the shunt driver of the shunt. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Reference Figures 1 to 3The thermal management module 1 includes a coolant control section for a thermal management system of an electric vehicle. The module 1 may include a disc-type rotary fluid valve 3, which can be used by the vehicle's thermal management system to direct coolant, for example, to cool the drive motor, gas-filled heat exchanger, battery, power electronics module, vehicle passenger compartment, and / or other vehicle components or systems requiring temperature control. The module 1 may also include, for example, one or more circulation pumps, fluid reservoirs, additional fluid valves, a coolant control system controller, sensors, heat exchangers, etc. The rotary valve 3 is partially incorporated into the housing 2 of the module 1, which may include internal flow channels that allow fluid communication between various components of the system included in the module 1. The rotary valve 3 includes features that allow the output of fluid with specific flow characteristics from one or more outlet ports 13, 14, which will be described in detail below.

[0053] The rotary disc valve 3 includes a valve body 4 and a fluid control assembly 41 disposed within the valve body 4. The fluid control assembly 41 includes a distributor 42 having a movable disc 43, which is rotatable relative to the valve body 4 about a rotation axis 61. The fluid control assembly 41 also includes a fixed disc 80 and a sealing element 110. The fluid control assembly 41 will be described below.

[0054] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The valve body 4 has a valve seat 5 and a cover 21 that cooperates with the valve seat 5 to provide a closed container. The valve seat 5 extends in a plane P perpendicular to the axis of rotation 61 and includes a circular outer periphery surrounded by an upright edge 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve seat 5 and the edge 10 are integrally formed with the module housing 2 and are defined by a portion of the module housing 2. In other embodiments, the valve seat 5 and the edge 10 are separately formed from the module housing 2 and are configured to be inserted into the module housing 2. Still in other embodiments, the valve seat 5 and the edge 10 are separately formed from the module housing 2 and can be used independently of the module 2.

[0055] The edge 10 is concentric with the axis of rotation 61 and surrounds valve ports 12, 13, and 14, which pass through the opening in the valve seat 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotary disc valve 3 includes a single inlet port 12 and two outlet ports 13 and 14. These valve ports 12, 13, and 14 are fan-shaped, and the sum of the arc lengths of the valve ports 12, 13, and 14 is approximately 360 degrees, thereby defining a circular valve opening region 6 centered on the axis of rotation 61. The outlet ports 13 and 14 have equal areas, and the area of ​​the inlet port 12 is smaller than the area of ​​either the outlet ports 13 or 14. For example, in some embodiments, the inlet port 12 may have an arc length of 60 degrees, and the outlet ports 13 and 14 may each have an arc length of 150 degrees. It should be understood that the arc lengths of the valve ports 12, 13, and 14 depend on the requirements of the specific application and may therefore differ from this example.

[0056] The valve opening region 6 is separated into the inlet and outlet ports 12, 13, and 14 by three radially extending seat shoulders 7, which intersect at the axis of rotation 61 and have a spoke-like appearance. As used herein, the term "radial" refers to a direction perpendicular to and intersecting the axis of rotation 61. A seat recess 8 is provided in the valve seat 5, which surrounds the valve opening region 6 and also extends along the surface of each seat shoulder 7 facing the cover plate portion. The seat recess 8 is shaped and sized to receive a sealing element 110, which will be described in detail below.

[0057] An annular gap 15 exists in the valve seat 5 between the valve seat groove 8 and the edge 10. The valve seat 5 includes two pairs of locating protrusions disposed in the gap 15. The pairs of locating protrusions are disposed on opposite diametrically opposed sides of the valve port opening region 6. Each pair of locating protrusions includes two closely spaced and upright posts 16. The spacing between a given pair of posts 16 is sized to receive a rod 85 protruding from the peripheral surface 84 of the fixed plate 80 in a positional clearance fit, thereby preventing the fixed plate 80 from rotating relative to the valve seat 5.

[0058] The valve seat 5 includes guide rails 18 disposed in the gap 15 on opposite diametrically opposed sides of the valve port opening region 6 and spaced apart from the post 16. Each guide rail 18 is an upright structure that is circumferentially elongated. In use, the inner surface 19 of each guide rail 18 faces the peripheral surfaces of the fixed disc 80 and the sealing element 110, thereby maintaining the axial alignment of these structures. The end 20 of each guide rail 18 facing the cover is beveled to facilitate the assembly of the fluid control element with the valve body 4.

[0059] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 5-6The cover 21 includes a cylindrical sidewall 22 and a cover portion 28 that closes a first end 23 of the sidewall 22. The centerline 17 of the sidewall 22 coincides with the axis of rotation 61. The end of the sidewall 22 opposite to the cover portion 28 (e.g., the second end 24 of the sidewall) is open and surrounds the edge 10. An annular cover seal 11, such as an O-ring, is disposed between the second end 24 of the sidewall and the edge 10 to provide a fluid tight seal between the cover 21 and the valve seat 5. The sidewall 22 has a non-uniform diameter, such that the diameter of the cover portion 28 of the cover 21 is smaller than the diameter of the second end 24 of the sidewall. Furthermore, the inner surface of the sidewall 22 defines a shoulder 25 facing the valve seat at the transition between the diameters. The cover 21 includes a beam 27 projecting inward from the sidewall 22 toward the centerline 17. The beam 27 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape and is configured to be engaged by the capture structure 86 of the fixing disc 80, as discussed in detail below. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 21 includes four beams 27, but fewer or more beams 27 may be used depending on the requirements of the specific application.

[0060] The cover portion 28 includes a central opening 29 centered on the sidewall centerline 17 and sized to receive the rod 58 of the diverter 42, as discussed below. A sleeve 30, integrally formed with the cover portion 28, surrounds the central opening 29 and projects outwardly from the cover portion 28. The sleeve 30 serves as a sliding bearing supporting the rod 58 during rotation.

[0061] The cover portion 28 includes an annular cover groove 31 that extends around the inner circumference of the sleeve 30. The cover groove 31 opens towards the centerline 17 and is shaped and sized to receive the rod seal 33. The rod seal 33 provides a tight fluid seal between the cover 21 and the rod 58. The rod seal 33 is annular and may be formed of an elastomer compatible with automotive coolants, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). In the illustrated embodiment, the rod seal 33 is an O-ring with an "X" shaped cross-section. In other embodiments, the rod seal 33 may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as, but not limited to, rectangular, elliptical, or "I" shaped.

[0062] The valve seat-facing surface of the cover portion 28 includes axially projecting ribs 34. Each rib 34 includes an arcuate circumferential portion 35 that partially surrounds the central opening 29. Furthermore, each rib 34 includes radial portions 36 extending linearly in the radial direction between each opposite end of the circumferential portion 35 and the sidewall 22. These radial portions 36 serve as stops that control the degree of rotation of the diverter 42 relative to the valve body 4, as discussed in more detail below. Rib-free regions between the radial portions 36 define a cover receiving groove 37 that receives the stop arm 57 of the diverter 42 with a loose operating clearance fit. The length of the cover receiving groove 37 corresponds to the distance between the radial portions 36 and is determined by the requirements of the specific application. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance between the radial portions 36 in the rib-free region corresponds to an arc length of 150 degrees.

[0063] The valve seat 5 and the cover 21 cooperate in a fluidly tight manner to define a valve cavity 38, which is configured to receive the diverter 42, the wave spring 66, and the thrust washer 68. Furthermore, the fixed disc 80 and the sealing element 110 are also arranged in the valve cavity 38 in an axially stacked configuration with respect to the diverter 42. The valve cavity 38 is in fluid communication with valve ports 12, 13, and 14, which are formed in the valve seat 5 and thus allow fluid flow to enter and exit the valve body 4 in the axial direction.

[0064] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 7-11 The splitter 42 includes a driver 50 and a movable disk 43, which engages with the base 51 of the driver 50, such that the movable disk 43 and the driver 50 rotate synchronously about the rotation axis 61.

[0065] The actuator 50 includes a base 51, which is typically disc-shaped. Furthermore, the actuator 50 includes a rod 58 that integrally projects from the surface 52 of the base 51 facing the cover plate portion. Both the base 51 and the rod 58 are concentric with the axis of rotation 61.

[0066] The first end or base 59 of the valve stem 58 has a diameter that increases relative to the middle portion and the second end 60 of the valve stem 58. The valve stem 58 has an axial dimension sufficient to protrude through the central opening 29 of the cover portion. The second end 60 of the valve stem is configured to connect to the valve actuator 150. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface of the second end 60 of the valve stem may include a plane, a spline (shown), or other features that allow engagement with the output structure of the valve actuator 150. Upon actuation, the diverter 42 rotates about the axis of rotation 61 relative to the valve body 4, and the rotational orientation of the diverter 42 relative to the valve body 4 is set and / or changed via the valve actuator 150.

[0067] A thrust washer 68 surrounds the valve stem 58 and is disposed between the valve stem base 59 and the surface of the cover plate portion 28 facing the valve seat.

[0068] The rotary valve 3 includes a spring 66 disposed between the cover 21 and the diverter 42 and surrounding the diverter stem 58. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the spring 66 is a wave spring, other springs (i.e., compression springs) or elastic members may be used instead. One end of the spring 66 abuts a thrust washer 68, which in turn abuts the cover 21. The opposite end of the spring 66 is received in an annular foot groove 62 surrounding the stem 58, thereby abutting the base 59 of the diverter stem 58. Within the assembly, the spring 66 is in a compressed state, thereby biasing the diverter 42 toward the valve body base seat 5 and providing a sealing force to the fluid control assembly 41 of the rotary valve 3. In particular, the spring 66 pushes the diverter 42 toward the valve body seat 5, ensuring a fluid tight seal between the movable disc 43 and the fixed disc 80, and between the fixed disc 80 and the valve seat 5, via the relatively soft and resilient sealing element 110. Furthermore, the sealing element 110 allows the internal components to adapt to dimensional changes caused by temperature variations and wear of the diverter 42 and the discs 43, 80.

[0069] The actuator foot 51 includes a surface 52 facing the cover portion and a surface 53 facing the valve seat opposite the surface 52 facing the cover portion. The actuator foot 51 includes a peripheral surface 54 facing the cover sidewall 22. The axial dimension of the foot peripheral surface 54 is smaller than the axial dimension of the valve stem base 59.

[0070] The actuator foot 51 includes a foot opening 55 disposed between the valve stem base 59 and the foot peripheral surface 54. The foot openings 55 are arranged side-by-side to surround the valve stem 58. Each foot opening 55 is a through opening extending from the surface 52 facing the cover portion to the surface 53 facing the valve seat. The portion of the actuator foot 51 between adjacent foot openings 55 is hereinafter referred to as a foot ridge 65. On the surface 52 of the foot facing the cover portion, each foot ridge 65 protrudes toward the cover portion 28 to provide a curved support extending from a minimum axial dimension at the foot peripheral surface 54 to a maximum axial dimension at the valve stem base 59.

[0071] In the described embodiment, there are six foot openings 55. Each foot opening 55 is fan-shaped and has the same arc length, for example, an arc length of 60 degrees. The first to fourth foot openings 55(1), 55(2), 55(3), 55(4) have a radial dimension greater than that of the fifth and sixth foot openings 55(5), 55(6). The fifth and sixth foot openings 55(5), 55(6) are positioned closer to the valve stem base 59 than to the foot peripheral surface 54, and a web 56 (e.g., a thin plate) extends between each of the fifth and sixth foot openings 55(5), 55(6) and the foot peripheral surface 54. Each web 56 extends circumferentially between foot edges 65 adjacent to the fifth and sixth foot openings 55(5), 55(6) and is supported by said foot edges 65.

[0072] The drive foot 51 includes a stop arm 57 that projects axially from one of the foot ridges 65 toward the cover portion 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the stop arm 57 is positioned on the diametrically opposite portion of the foot surface 52 facing the cover portion, relative to the foot ridges 65 (2) extending between two adjacent webs 56.

[0073] The stop arm 57 has a shape and axial dimensions that allow it to protrude into the cover plate receiving groove 37. When viewed from the side, the diverter 42 has a rectangular profile, but is not limited to this configuration. For certain angular orientations of the diverter 42 relative to the valve seat 5 and valve body 2, the stop arm 57 abuts a corresponding radial portion 36 of the ribs. Thus, the diverter 42 can be actuated by the actuator 150 to rotate freely relative to the valve body 4 about the axis of rotation 61, wherein the stop arm 57 moves within the cover plate receiving groove 37 to a degree of movement permitted by the length of the cover plate receiving groove 37. The radial portion 36 of the ribs acts as a stop to the movement of the stop arm 57, thereby limiting the amount of rotation of the diverter 42 relative to the valve body 4.

[0074] Although the valve seat-facing surface 53 of the foot 51 is generally flat (e.g., planar), the foot 51 includes a protruding key element 67 configured to form a mechanical connection with the movable disk 43 and drive the movable disk 43 to rotate synchronously with the driver 50.

[0075] Key element 67 protrudes axially toward valve seat 5 from the foot surface 53 facing the valve seat. Key element 67 is disposed on a diametrically opposite portion of the foot surface 53 facing the valve seat, relative to the foot ridge 65(1) including the stop arm 57. Key element 67 has a curved shape corresponding to a curve defined by the foot peripheral surface 54. In the illustrated embodiment, key element 67 is shaped and sized to be received in a recess 47 disposed in the surface 44 of the movable disc 43 facing the cover plate. Key element 67 is an arcuate protrusion disposed between the fifth and sixth foot openings 55(5), 55(6) and the foot peripheral surface 54. Key element 67 extends circumferentially along the web 56 of the foot 51 facing the valve seat. Key element 67 has a radial dimension greater than fifty percent of the radial distance between the fifth and sixth foot openings 55(5), 55(6) and the foot peripheral surface 54. The axial dimension of the key element 67 is smaller than the axial dimension of the movable disk 43.

[0076] When the driver 50 is assembled with the movable disk 43, the key element 67 is received in and engages with the recess 47 of the movable disk 43. As a result, the torque supplied to the driver 50 by the actuator 150 is transmitted to the movable disk 43, thereby causing the movable disk 43 to rotate synchronously with the driver 50.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the driver 50 of the shunt 42 is formed of plastic, such as glass fiber reinforced polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), for example, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS GF40) with 40% glass. Other suitable materials include, but are not limited to, polypropylene (PP) or polyamide (PA). The material used for a particular application is selected based on the requirements of the application.

[0078] The movable disk 43 is a rigid cylindrical plate with an axial dimension much smaller than its diameter (e.g., the movable disk 43 is disc-shaped). The movable disk 43 includes a cover-facing surface 44 and a valve seat-facing surface 45, the cover-facing surface 44 facing the valve seat-facing surface 53 of the actuator foot 51, and the valve seat-facing surface 45 facing the valve seat 5. The movable disk 43 includes a peripheral surface 46 extending from the cover-facing surface 44 to the valve seat-facing surface 45. The valve seat-facing surface 45 of the movable disk 43 is planar (e.g., flat or level and smooth, without protrusions, recesses, dents, or surface features or irregularities). The cover-facing surface 44 of the movable disk 43 includes features that allow a mechanical engagement between the movable disk 43 and the foot 51 of the distributor driver 50. In particular, the surface 44 of the movable disk 43 facing the cover plate includes a recess 47, which is positioned, shaped and sized to receive the key element 67 of the foot 51 in a position clearance fit manner.

[0079] Although the surface 44 of the movable disk 43 facing the cover plate faces and engages with the surface 53 of the actuator foot 51 facing the valve seat, the surface 45 of the movable disk facing the valve seat faces and directly contacts the corresponding surface 81 of the fixed disk 80.

[0080] The movable disc 43 includes a single movable disc opening 49 disposed between the center of the movable disc 43 and the peripheral surface 46 of the movable disc 43. The movable disc opening 49 is located at a position diametrically opposite to the first recess 47. The movable disc opening 49 is a through opening extending from the surface 44 facing the cover portion to the surface 45 facing the valve seat. As seen when the movable disc 43 is viewed axially, the movable disc opening 49 has a generally fan-shaped profile. The movable disc opening 49 extends radially from a position adjacent to the center of the disc to a position adjacent to the peripheral surface 46 of the movable disc. Furthermore, the movable disc opening 49 extends along an arc length of approximately 210 degrees.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiments, the movable disk 43 is formed of plastic, such as polyketone (PK), polyoxymethylene (POM), or other suitable materials. The material used for a particular application is selected based on the requirements of the application.

[0082] A fixed disk 80 is disposed in the valve chamber 38 in an axially stacked assembly, which includes a flow divider 42, a fixed disk 80, a sealing element 110, and a valve seat 5. The fixed disk 80 is positioned between the movable disk 43 of the flow divider 42 and the sealing element 110 in the stack. The fixed disk 80 isolates the valve chamber 38 into a first chamber portion 39 and a second chamber portion 40. The first chamber portion 39 includes valve ports 12, 13, and 14, and the second chamber portion 40 includes the flow divider 42.

[0083] The fixed plate 80 is a rigid cylindrical plate with an axial dimension much smaller than its diameter (e.g., the fixed plate 80 is disc-shaped). The fixed plate 80 includes a cover-facing surface 81 and a valve seat-facing surface 82. The cover-facing surface 81 faces and abuts the movable plate 43 of the distributor 42, and the valve seat-facing surface 82 faces and abuts the valve seat 5 and the sealing element 110. The fixed plate 80 includes a peripheral surface 84 that extends between its cover-facing surface 81 and its valve seat-facing surface 82.

[0084] The fixed disc 80 includes features that position the fixed disc 80 angularly and axially relative to the valve body 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed disc 80 includes a rod 85 projecting outwardly from the peripheral surface 84 of the fixed disc. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed disc 80 includes rods 85 disposed on each diametrically opposed side of the fixed disc 80. Two rods 85 extend along a common diameter. Furthermore, the rods 85 are shaped and sized to be received in a gap between each pair of posts 16 of the positioning protrusions in the valve body 4. In particular, each rod 85 is received in a corresponding gap in a positional clearance fit. As a result, rotation of the fixed disc 80 relative to the valve body 4 is prevented.

[0085] In addition to the rod 85, the fixed disk 80 includes a capture structure 86 that projects outward from the peripheral surface 84 of the fixed disk. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed disk 80 includes four capture structures 86 spaced circumferentially along the peripheral surface 84 of the fixed disk. Each capture structure 86 includes a plate portion 87 that projects parallel to the base-facing surface 82 of the fixed disk. Furthermore, each capture structure 86 includes a leading lip 88 and a trailing lip 89. The leading and trailing lips 88, 89 extend toward the valve seat 4 such that each capture structure 86 has a generally C-shape. The axial dimension of the leading lip 88 is smaller than the axial dimension of the trailing lip 89. The circumferential spacing between the leading and trailing lips 88 corresponds to or is slightly larger than the circumferential dimension of the sidewall beam 27. In use, each sidewall beam 27 engages with and is partially surrounded by a corresponding capture structure 86. Specifically, for each capture structure 86, the corresponding beam 27 is located below the plate portion 87 and positioned between the leading and trailing edge lips 88, 89. As a result, when the subassembly, including the cover 21, spring 66, thrust washer 68, cover seal 11, sealing element 110, diverter 42, and fixed disc 80, is transported to module 1 for final assembly, axial movement (e.g., sudden disintegration) of the fixed disc 80 relative to the valve body 4 is prevented. When the subassembly is attached to the valve seat, the rods 85 of the fixed disc 80 contact the base of each gap 15 between the paired rods 16, thereby axially positioning the fixed disc 80 within the rotary valve 3. When the cover 21 is attached to module 1, the cover 21 moves axially relative to the fixed disc 80 so that the beam 27 moves away from the capture structure 86 until the cover 21 is fully seated. The cover 21 is then secured to the module boss using fasteners such as screws.

[0086] The fixed disk 80 has three sector areas 91, 92, and 93. Figure 11The first region 91 covers the inlet port 12 and has an arc length corresponding to the arc length of the inlet port 12. Furthermore, the second and third regions 92 and 93 cover the first and second outlet ports 13 and 14, respectively. The second and third regions 92 and 93 have arc lengths corresponding to the arc lengths of the first and second outlet ports 13 and 14. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the first region 91 has an arc length of 60 degrees, the second region 92 has an arc length of 150 degrees, and the third region 93 has an arc length of 150 degrees.

[0087] The fixed disk 80 includes a first fixed disk opening 94 formed in a first region 91. The shape and size of the first fixed disk opening 94 generally correspond to those of the inlet port 12. In particular, the first fixed disk opening 94 is a through opening extending from the surface 81 of the fixed disk facing the cover plate portion to the surface 82 of the fixed disk facing the valve seat. When the fixed disk 80 is viewed axially, the first fixed disk opening 94 has a fan-shaped profile. The first fixed disk opening 94 extends radially from a position adjacent to the center of the disk to a position adjacent to the peripheral surface 84 of the fixed disk. In the illustrated embodiment, the first fixed disk opening 94 has an arc length of 60 degrees.

[0088] The second and third regions 92 and 93 are substantially complete. However, each of the second and third regions 92 and 93 includes an irregularly shaped fixing disc opening. Specifically, the second region 92 includes a second fixing disc opening 95, and the third region 93 includes a third fixing disc opening 96. The second and third fixing disc openings 95 and 96 are through openings extending from the surface 81 of the fixing disc facing the cover plate portion to the surface 82 of the fixing disc facing the valve seat. The second fixing disc opening 95 has the same shape and size as the third fixing disc opening 96. Each of the second and third fixing disc openings 95 and 96 has a smaller area compared to the area of ​​the corresponding regions 92 and 93.

[0089] Each of the second and third mounting plate openings 95, 96 has a first opening portion 98 and a second opening portion 99. The first opening portion 98 defines a fan-shaped opening having an arc length of approximately 20% of the total arc length of the region. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc length of the first opening portion 98 is 30 degrees. The radially extending edge of the first opening portion 98 of the second mounting plate opening 95 generally coincides with the radial boundary between the first and second regions 91, 92. The second opening portion 99 of the second mounting plate opening 95 defines a narrow, curved slot that extends along the outer periphery of the second region 92, spanning an arc length of 120 degrees. The second opening portion 99 has a different shape and a smaller opening area than the first opening portion 98, and may consist of a single continuous slot or may be a series of slots with smaller arc lengths. The second opening portion 99 of the second mounting plate opening 95 extends between the first opening portion 98 and the radial boundary between the second and third regions 92, 93.

[0090] A third fixing disc opening 96 is formed in a third region 93 and has the same shape and size as the second fixing disc opening 95. Specifically, a first opening portion 98 of the third fixing disc opening 96 defines a fan-shaped opening. The radially extending edge of the first opening portion 98 of the third fixing disc opening 96 generally coincides with the radial boundary between the second and third regions 92, 93. A second opening portion 99 of the third fixing disc opening 96 defines a narrow, curved slot that extends along the outer periphery of the third region 93, spanning an arc length of 120 degrees. The second opening portion 99 may consist of a single continuous slot or may be a series of slots with smaller arc lengths. The second opening portion 99 of the third fixing disc opening 96 extends between the first opening portion 98 and the radial boundary between the third and first regions 93, 91.

[0091] The surface 81 of the fixed disc 80 facing the cover plate includes a narrow, protruding edge 83 that extends along the contour of each of the first, second, and third fixed disc openings 94, 95, 96. The axial dimension of the edge 83 is smaller than the axial dimension of the fixed disc 80. The end face 83(1) of the edge 83 provides a surface that abuts against and forms a fluid-tight seal with the valve seat-facing surface 45 of the movable disc 43.

[0092] The valve seat-facing surface 82 of the fixed disc 80 includes a shallow receiving groove 100, which is shaped and sized to receive a portion of the sealing element 110 therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving groove 100 has an annular portion 101 and a central portion 102, the annular portion 101 surrounding first, second, and third regions 91, 92, and 93, and the central portion 102 including three channels 103 extending radially between the center of the fixed disc 80 and the annular portion 101. The three channels 103 extend along ridges disposed between the respective first, second, and third fixed disc openings 94, 95, and 96.

[0093] The mounting plate 80 includes a plurality of receiving slot openings 104 disposed in a receiving slot 90. Each receiving slot opening 104 is a through opening extending from the surface 81 of the mounting plate facing the cover plate portion to the bottom of the receiving slot 90. Each of the receiving slot openings 104 has a smaller area compared to the areas of the mounting plate openings 94, 95, and 96. Each of the receiving slot openings 104 is shaped and sized as a receiving post 114 that protrudes from the surface of the sealing element 110 facing the cover plate portion. The number of receiving slot openings 104 is determined by the requirements of the specific application. In the illustrated embodiment, there are eight circumferentially spaced receiving slot openings 104 disposed in the annular portion 101 of the receiving slot, and the receiving slot openings 104 are disposed in each channel 103.

[0094] A sealing element 110 provides a fluid-tight seal between a fixed disc 80 and a valve seat 5. The sealing element 110 is shaped and sized to correspond to the shape and size of a seat recess 8 of the valve seat 5. The sealing element 110 is a circular, resilient member whose axial dimension is much smaller than its diameter (e.g., the sealing element 110 is typically disc-shaped). The sealing element 110 includes a cover-facing surface 111 facing the fixed disc 80 and received in a receiving groove 100, and a seat-facing surface 112 facing the valve seat 5 and received in the seat recess 8. The sealing element 110 includes a sealing element peripheral surface 113 extending between its cover-facing surface 111 and its seat-facing surface 112.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing element 110 has an annular portion 115 surrounding a valve opening region 6, which includes an inlet port 12 and first and second outlet ports 13, 14. Furthermore, the sealing element 110 includes a central portion 116. The central portion 116 includes three supports 118 extending radially between the center of the sealing element 110 and the annular portion 115. As a result, when viewed along a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 61, the sealing element 110 has the appearance of a support wheel. The three supports 118 are supported on a radially extending valve seat ridge 7 disposed between the inlet port 12 and the first and second outlet ports 13, 14.

[0096] The sealing element 110 has a sealing element opening 120 defined between adjacent supports 118. The sealing element opening 120 is shaped, sized, and spaced relative to accommodate the shape, size, and spacing of the inlet port 12 and the first and second outlet ports 13, 14, as defined between the seat ridges 7 of the valve seat 5. More specifically, the sealing element 110 includes a first sealing element opening 121 axially aligned with the inlet port 12 and having the same shape and size as the inlet port 12. The sealing element 110 includes second and third sealing element openings 122, 123 axially aligned with the first and second outlet ports 13, 14, respectively, and having the same shape and size as the first and second outlet ports 13, 14. Like the valve ports 12, 13, 14, the sealing element opening is fan-shaped. As with the valve seat ridge 7, the sealing element supports 118 are not equidistant, and thus the corresponding sealing element openings 120 do not all have the same arc length. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sealing element opening 121 may have an arc length of 60 degrees, and the second and third sealing element openings 122, 123 may each have an arc length of 150 degrees. It should be understood that the arc length of the sealing element openings 120 depends on the requirements of the specific application and may therefore differ from this example.

[0097] The surface 111 of the sealing element 110 facing the cover plate includes protruding posts 114. Each post 114 is positioned, shaped, and sized to be received in a corresponding receiving groove opening 104 by press fitting. In the illustrated embodiment, there are eight circumferentially spaced posts 114 arranged along the annular portion 115 of the sealing element, and the posts 114 are arranged along each post 118. The engagement of the posts 114 with the receiving groove openings 104 serves to prevent relative rotation of the sealing element 110 relative to the retaining plate 80, and to prevent relative axial movement between the sealing element 110 and the retaining plate 80.

[0098] Furthermore, the surface 111 of the sealing element 110 facing the cover plate faces and directly contacts the surface 82 of the fixed disc facing the valve seat. More specifically, the sealing element 110 is partially received in the receiving groove 100. The engagement between the surface of the sealing element 110 and the opposing surfaces of the receiving groove 100 serves to prevent relative rotation of the sealing element 110 relative to the fixed disc 80.

[0099] Similarly, the valve seat-facing surface 112 of the sealing element 110 faces and directly contacts the valve seat 5. More specifically, the sealing element 110 is partially received in the valve seat recess 8. The engagement between the surface of the sealing element 110 and the opposing surface of the valve seat recess 8 serves to prevent relative rotation of the sealing element 110 relative to the valve seat 5.

[0100] Therefore, both the fixed plate 80 and the sealing element 110 are fixed relative to the valve seat 5.

[0101] The sealing element 110 has greater elasticity than the fixed disc 80. Furthermore, the sealing element 110 is formed of an elastic material that is compatible with the fluid flowing through the rotary disc valve 3 and meets the requirements for operating temperature and durability. For example, when the rotary disc valve 3 is used to control fluid in a vehicle coolant system, the first elastic element 110 is formed of an elastomer compatible with automotive coolant, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM).

[0102] The rotational orientation of the distributor 42 relative to the valve body 4 determines one or more fluid flow paths through the corresponding inlet port 12 and the first and second outlet ports 13, 14, thereby controlling the distribution of coolant fluid in the cooling system 1.

[0103] In some embodiments, the diverter 42 cooperates with the fixed disk 80 to control the fluid flow from the inlet port 12 to the first outlet port 13 and / or the second outlet port 14, such that the fluid exits the rotary valve 3 at a predetermined flow rate based on the position (e.g., angular orientation) of the diverter 42 relative to the valve body 4.

[0104] Reference Figure 12 In the illustrated embodiment, fluid flows through the first outlet port 13 according to a first flow-diverter position curve 130, the first flow-diverter position curve 130 having a first curve portion 131 and a second curve portion 132 adjacent to and continuous with the first curve portion 131. The first curve portion 131 is linear and has a first slope M1, and the second curve portion 132 is substantially linear and has a second slope M2, and the second slope M2 has an absolute value greater than the absolute value of the first slope M1. Furthermore, fluid flows through the second outlet port 14 according to a second flow-diverter position curve 135. The second flow-diverter position curve 135 has a first curve portion 136 and a second curve portion 137 adjacent to and continuous with the first curve portion 136. The second flow-diverter position curve 135 is a mirror image of the first flow-diverter position curve 130 with respect to a predetermined flow rate. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined flow rate is 10 liters per minute. The first curve portion 136 is linear and has a first slope M3, which is equal to and opposite to the first slope M1 of the first flow-splitter position curve 130. The second curve portion 132 is substantially linear and has a second slope M4, which is equal to and opposite to the second slope M2 of the first flow-splitter position curve 130. Relative to the second flow-splitter position curve 135, the second slope M4 has an absolute value greater than the absolute value of the first slope M3.

[0105] By controlling the fluid flow through the rotary valve 3 according to the first and second flow-diverter position curves 131 and 135, the rate of fluid flow through the valve body 4 can be adjusted with a first resolution for the diverter position within a first position range and with a second resolution for the diverter position within a second position range, and the second resolution is coarser than the first resolution. For example, by controlling the fluid flow through the rotary valve 3 according to the curves 130 and 135, the fluid flow leaving the first and second outlet ports 13 and 14 can be controlled to finely control the vehicle compartment temperature for the first diverter position range relative to the valve body, and to allow for larger variations in the vehicle compartment temperature for the second diverter position range relative to the valve body 4.

[0106] To achieve the desired flow characteristics, the through openings of the movable disk 43 and the fixed disk 80 have specific shapes and are movable relative to each other about the axis of rotation 61. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the movable disk 43 has a single fan-shaped opening 49 that extends through an arc of 210 degrees. The movable disk 43 moves synchronously with the actuator 50 within a range of motion defined by the movement of the stop arm 57 within the cover plate receiving groove 37 of the cover member 21.

[0107] Furthermore, the fixed disk stacked with the movable disk within the valve chamber has a first fixed disk opening 94, a second fixed disk opening 95, and a third fixed disk opening 96. The first fixed disk opening 94 is axially aligned with the inlet port 12, the second fixed disk opening 95 is axially aligned with the first outlet port 13, and the third fixed disk opening 96 is axially aligned with the second outlet port 14. The first fixed disk opening 94 has a fan-shaped shape and an arc length of 60 degrees. The second fixed disk opening 95 and the third fixed disk opening 96 have the same irregular shape and size. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the second and third fixed disk openings 95 and 96 has a fan-shaped first opening portion 98 and a narrow, circumferentially extending slotted second opening portion 99. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc length of the first opening portion 98 is 30 degrees, and the arc length of the second opening portion 99 is 120 degrees, thereby giving the second and third fixed disk openings 95 and 96 a total arc length of 150 degrees.

[0108] The diverter 42, including the movable disk 43, is driven by the actuator 150, which is controlled by a controller (not shown) to rotate relative to the fixed disk 80 by a range of approximately 135 degrees.

[0109] Regardless of the location of the splitter across the entire range of possible locations, the movable disk opening 49 extends fully across the inlet port 12 so that the inlet port 12 is always fully open. In the illustrated embodiment, the range of possible locations is between 0 degrees and 135 degrees, including the endpoints.

[0110] Reference Figure 12-15 When the diverter 42 is in its initial position corresponding to the radial portion 36 of a rib adjacent to the cover portion 28 of the baffle 57, referred to here as the "0%" position, the movable disc opening 49 is fully axially aligned with the inlet port 12 and the first outlet port 13. The second outlet port 14 is completely closed.

[0111] As the movable disk 43 rotates, the stop arm 57 moves away from the radial portion 36 of one rib. The movable disk opening 49 gradually moves away from alignment with the first outlet port 13 and toward alignment with the second outlet port 14. When the splitter 42 is in the "50% position," the stop arm 57 is positioned midway between the radial portions of one rib and the other. In this orientation, the movable disk opening 49 extends partially across the first outlet port 13, fully across the inlet port 12, and partially across the second outlet port 14, as... Figure 16-18 As shown in the image.

[0112] Reference Figure 19-21 When the diverter 42 is in its final position, corresponding to the radial portion 36 of another rib adjacent to the cover portion 28 of the baffle 57, referred to herein as the "100%" position, the movable disc opening 49 is fully axially aligned with the inlet port 12 and the second outlet port 14. The first outlet port 13 is completely closed.

[0113] Reference Figure 22-26 In an alternative embodiment, the diverter 242 can be used in the rotary valve 3. The alternative embodiment diverter 242 is similar to the one described above relative to... Figure 2-3 and Figure 7-10 The diverter 42 is described, and common reference numerals are used to refer to common elements. The alternative embodiment diverter 242 differs from diverter 42 in the mechanical engagement between the diverter base 251 and the movable disk 243.

[0114] As in the previous embodiments, the surface 53 of the foot 251 facing the valve seat is typically flat (e.g., planar). Figure 22-26 In the embodiment shown, the foot 251 includes a protruding first key element 267 and a protruding second key element 269, which are configured to form a mechanical connection with the movable disk 243 and drive the movable disk 243 to rotate synchronously with the driver 250.

[0115] The first key element 267 and the second key element 269 protrude axially toward the valve seat 5 from the surface 53 of the foot facing the valve seat. The first key element 267 is disposed on a diametrically opposite portion of the surface 53 of the foot facing the valve seat, relative to the second key element 269. Although the first and second key elements 267 and 269 do not have the same shape, each of the first and second key elements 267 and 269 has a curved shape corresponding to a curve defined by the peripheral surface 54 of the foot.

[0116] The first key element 267 is shaped and sized to be received in a first recess 247 on the surface 44 of the cover portion of the movable disk 243. The first key element 267 is an arcuate protrusion disposed between the fifth and sixth foot openings 55(5), 55(6) and the peripheral surface 254 of the foot. The first key element 267 extends circumferentially along the web 56 of the valve seat-facing surface 53 of the foot 251. The first key element 267 has a radial dimension greater than fifty percent of the radial distance between the fifth and sixth foot openings 55(5), 55(6) and the peripheral surface 54 of the foot. The axial dimension of the first key element 267 is smaller than the axial dimension of the movable disk 243.

[0117] The second key element 269 is shaped and sized to be received in a second recess 248 on the surface 44 of the cover portion of the movable disk 243. The second key element 269 is an arcuate protrusion having an outer edge aligned with the peripheral surface 54 of the foot. With this configuration, the second key element 269 extends circumferentially along the seat-facing surface 53 of the foot 251 at a position below the stop arm 57. The second key element 269 has a radial dimension greater than fifty percent of the radial distance between the second and third foot openings 55(2), 55(3) and the peripheral surface 54 of the foot. The axial dimension of the second key element 269 is smaller than the axial dimension of the movable disk 243.

[0118] As in the previous embodiment, the movable disk 243 is a rigid cylindrical plate with an axial dimension much smaller than its diameter (e.g., the movable disk 243 is disc-shaped). The surface 44 of the movable disk 243 facing the cover plate includes features that allow a mechanical engagement between the movable disk 243 and the foot 251 of the shunt driver 50. Specifically, the surface 44 of the movable disk 243 facing the cover plate includes a first recess 247 positioned, shaped, and sized to receive a first key element 267 of the foot 51 in a positional clearance fit. Furthermore, the surface 44 of the movable disk 243 facing the cover plate includes a second recess 248 positioned, shaped, and sized to receive a second key element 69 of the foot 51 in a positional clearance fit.

[0119] When the actuator 250 is assembled with the movable disk 243, the first key element 267 is received in and engages with the first recess 247 of the movable disk 243, and the second key element 269 is received in and engages with the second recess 248. As a result, the torque provided to the actuator 250 by the actuator 150 is transmitted to the movable disk 243, thereby causing the movable disk 243 to rotate synchronously with the actuator 50. More specifically, the torque is transmitted to each of the opposite sides of the movable disk 243.

[0120] Although, in the illustrated embodiment, the valve body 4 includes a single inlet port and two outlet ports, the rotary disc valve is not limited to this configuration. In other embodiments, the rotary disc valve includes a single outlet port. Still in other embodiments, the rotary disc valve includes more than two outlet ports. Still in other embodiments, the rotary disc valve includes multiple inlet ports and one or more outlet ports.

[0121] Selective illustrative embodiments of the fluid delivery system including the rotary disc valve have been described in detail above. It should be understood that only structures deemed necessary for illustrating the fluid delivery system and the rotary disc valve have been described herein. Other conventional structures of the fluid delivery system and the rotary disc valve, as well as their auxiliary and accessory components, are assumed to be known and understood by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, while operational examples of the fluid delivery system and the rotary disc valve have been described above, the fluid delivery system and the rotary disc valve are not limited to the operational examples described above, but various design changes can be made without departing from the fluid delivery system and / or the rotary disc valve as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. A valve, comprising: Valve body, the valve body including an inlet port and an outlet port; as well as A flow divider rotatably disposed in the valve body is configured to control the flow through the valve body such that fluid flows through the first outlet port according to a flow rate-flow divider position curve. The flow rate of the fluid flowing through the valve body can be adjusted with a first resolution for the position of the diverter within a first position range, and with a second resolution for the position of the diverter within a second position range. The second resolution is coarser than the first resolution.

2. The valve according to claim 1, wherein, The second position range does not overlap with the first position range, and Each position within the second position range corresponds to a larger shunt position value than each position within the first position range.

3. A valve, comprising: The valve body includes an inlet port, a first outlet port, and a second outlet port; A fixing plate, wherein the fixing plate is disposed in the valve body and fixed relative to the valve body; as well as A flow divider, rotatably disposed within the valve body, includes a movable disc parallel to and configured to rotate relative to the fixed disc about a rotation axis. The flow divider cooperates with the fixed disc to control fluid flow from the inlet port to at least one of the first outlet port and the second outlet port, such that: Fluid flows through the first outlet port according to a first flow-splitter position curve, the first flow-splitter position curve having a first curved portion and a second curved portion adjacent to the first curved portion, the first curved portion having a first linear slope, and the second curved portion having a second linear slope, wherein the second linear slope has an absolute value greater than the absolute value of the first linear slope, and The fluid flows through the second outlet port according to the second flow-splitter position curve, and the second flow-splitter position curve is a mirror image of the first flow-splitter position curve with respect to a predetermined flow rate.

4. The valve according to claim 3, wherein, The predetermined flow rate intersects with the second curve portion of the first flow rate-splitter position curve.

5. The valve according to claim 3, wherein, The second curve portion does not overlap with the first curve portion. The fluid flow through the first outlet port causes the flow rate at each splitter location for the second curve portion to be less than the flow rate at each splitter location for the first curve portion, and The fluid flow through the second outlet port results in a flow rate at each splitter location for the second curve portion that is greater than the flow rate at each splitter location for the first curve portion.

6. The valve according to claim 3, wherein, The second curve portion of the first flow-splitter position curve intersects with the second curve portion of the second flow-splitter position curve.

7. The valve according to claim 3, wherein, The second curve portion of the first flow-splitter position curve intersects with the second curve portion of the second flow-splitter position curve at a splitter position within 85% to 95% of the full splitter position range.

8. The valve according to claim 3, wherein, The predetermined flow rate is in the range of 8 (liters / minute) to 12 (liters / minute).

9. The valve according to claim 3, wherein, The first flow-splitter location curve has the maximum flow for a splitter location within the range of 0% to 10% of the full splitter location range.

10. The valve according to claim 3, wherein, The valve body includes a valve seat and a cover, wherein... The valve seat extends in a plane and includes an outer periphery surrounded by upright edges, and The cover includes a cylindrical sidewall and a cover plate portion, the cover plate portion closing one end of the sidewall. The valve seat and the cover cooperate in a fluidly tight manner to define a valve cavity configured to receive the splitter and to be in fluid communication with the inlet port, the first outlet port and the second outlet port.

11. The valve according to claim 10, wherein, Each of the inlet port, the first outlet port, and the second outlet port is formed in the valve seat.

12. The valve according to claim 10, wherein, The splitter includes a driver and the removable disk, and The movable disk is disposed on the valve seat-facing surface of the actuator and configured to be driven by the actuator to rotate.

13. The valve according to claim 10, wherein, The splitter includes a driver and the removable disk. The movable disk is compressed between the valve seat-facing surface of the actuator and the cover-facing surface of the fixed disk, and The movable disk is driven to rotate by the driver.

14. The valve according to claim 13, wherein, The actuator has a disc-shaped base and a valve stem, the disc-shaped base being disposed in the valve cavity, and the valve stem protruding from the surface of the base facing the cover plate. The valve stem is configured to extend through an opening in the cover plate portion and be mechanically connected to the actuator. The valve stem has a centerline that coincides with the axis of rotation, and The flow divider is configured to control the fluid flow through the valve body based on the rotational orientation of the actuator relative to the valve body.

15. The valve according to claim 14, wherein, The base includes multiple through openings.

16. The valve according to claim 14, wherein, The surface of the foot facing the cover plate includes a protrusion configured to engage with a stop element of the cover to limit the degree of rotation of the actuator relative to the valve body.

17. The valve according to claim 10, wherein, The fixed plate is supported on the valve seat and fixed relative to the valve seat. A sealing element is disposed between the fixed disc and the valve seat, the sealing element providing a tight fluid seal between the fixed disc and the valve seat, and The surface of the fixed plate facing the cover plate faces and is adjacent to the surface of the distributor facing the valve seat.

18. A valve comprising: Valve body, the valve body comprising First end, The second end, A cylindrical sidewall extends between the first end and the second end, and the first end, the second end, and the sidewall together form a valve cavity. The inlet port is connected to the valve chamber. A first outlet port, the first outlet port being connected to the valve chamber, and The second outlet port is connected to the valve cavity; A fixed plate, which is fixed relative to the valve body and isolates the valve cavity into a first cavity portion and a second cavity portion, the fixed plate including a fixed plate opening; and A diverter, rotatably disposed within the first cavity portion, includes a movable disk adjacent to and rotatable relative to the fixed disk, the movable disk including an opening. The fixed disk opening and the movable disk opening are configured such that the valve controls the flow of fluid through the valve body, characterized in that: Fluid flows through the first outlet port according to a first flow-splitter position curve, the first flow-splitter position curve having a first curved portion and a second curved portion adjacent to the first curved portion, the first curved portion having a first linear slope, and the second curved portion having a second linear slope, wherein the absolute value of the second linear slope is greater than the absolute value of the first linear slope, and The fluid flows through the second outlet port according to the second flow-splitter position curve, and the second flow-splitter position curve is a mirror image of the first flow-splitter position curve with respect to a predetermined flow rate.

19. The valve according to claim 18, wherein, Each of the inlet port, the first outlet port, and the second outlet port is connected to the second cavity.

Images