Multi-way switching valve device

Abstract

The present application provides a multi-way switching valve device which mixes fluids having different state quantities, and achieves miniaturization, simplification, reduction in the number of parts, and the like. The present application includes a base member which defines a first inlet and a first outlet of a first fluid passage, a second inlet and a second outlet of a second fluid passage, a third inlet and a third outlet of a third fluid passage, and a fourth inlet and a fourth outlet of a fourth fluid passage; and a multi-way switching valve which is rotatable relative to the base member to open / close the first inlet to the fourth inlet and the first outlet to the fourth outlet, the multi-way switching valve, at a mixing switching position included in a plurality of switching positions, causing a fluid flowing out of the first outlet to flow into the first inlet and the second inlet through the third fluid passage, and causing a fluid flowing out of the second outlet to flow into the second inlet and the first inlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a multi-way switching valve device that switches the flow of fluid in multiple directions, and more particularly to a multi-way switching valve device that adjusts the flow of a heat medium (cooling water) in a temperature control system, such as an electric vehicle, which includes an HVAC system (for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning in the vehicle compartment). Background Technology

[0002] As an existing multi-way switching valve device, the following structure is known: a switching valve (eight-way valve) is used in a vehicle thermal management system including a vehicle heat pump system containing a cabin electric heater, a battery system cooling loop that exchanges heat with the battery, and a drive train cooling loop containing a heat exchanger that exchanges heat with the oil of the drive motor. The switching valve is connected to both the battery system cooling loop and the drive train cooling loop and has four switching modes (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The switching valve is a component that adjusts the flow of cooling water in each passage, not a component that mixes cooling water flowing in different passages. Therefore, for example, it is not possible to make adjustments such as mixing high-temperature cooling water with low-temperature cooling water to create a cooling water flow at a suitable temperature.

[0004] Furthermore, in a vehicle thermal management system that includes components such as a refrigerant circuit that supplies refrigerant circulation and has an indoor heat exchanger for heat exchange between the refrigerant and the indoor air, a heat medium circuit that supplies heat medium circulation to regulate the temperature of the battery and drive motor, a refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger for heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat medium (cooling water), and a control unit that controls the operation of the refrigerant circuit and the heat medium circuit, as an alternative to a multi-way switching valve device, multiple switching valves are configured in the heat medium circuit, and each switching valve is driven by the control unit to control the flow of the heat medium.

[0005] In this case, since multiple switching valves are used, each switching valve needs to be controlled, which makes the control process complex, with a large number of parts and a complex structure.

[0006] [Existing Technical Documents]

[0007] [Patent Literature]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 11807067

[0009] [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-63729 Summary of the Invention

[0010] [The problem the invention aims to solve]

[0011] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a multi-way switching valve device that can mix fluids with different state quantities (e.g., temperature), thereby achieving miniaturization, system simplification, and reduction of the number of parts, and is particularly applicable to temperature control systems for electric vehicles.

[0012] [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0013] The multi-way switching valve device of the present invention comprises: a base member defining a first inlet and a first outlet of a first fluid passage, a second inlet and a second outlet of a second fluid passage, a third inlet and a third outlet of a third fluid passage, and a fourth inlet and a fourth outlet of a fourth fluid passage; and a multi-way switching valve rotatably disposed on the base member and performing switching operations at multiple switching positions to open / close the first inlet to the fourth inlet and the first outlet to the fourth outlet. The multi-way switching valve, in a mixed switching position included in the multiple switching positions, allows fluid flowing out of the first outlet to flow into the first inlet and the second inlet, and allows fluid flowing out of the second outlet to flow into the second inlet and the first inlet.

[0014] In the multi-port switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: when the multi-port switching valve is in the mixed switching position, the first outlet is connected to the third inlet, the third outlet is connected to the first inlet and the second inlet, the second outlet is connected to the first inlet and the second inlet, and the fourth inlet and the fourth outlet are closed.

[0015] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted, in which multiple switching positions are included in the first switching position, the second switching position, the third switching position, the fourth switching position, and the fifth switching position that are switched sequentially in the rotation of the multi-way switching valve in one direction, and the fifth switching position is a mixed switching position.

[0016] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: in the first switching position, the multi-way switching valve connects the first outlet to the first inlet, connects the third outlet to the second inlet, connects the second outlet to the third inlet, and closes the fourth inlet and the fourth outlet.

[0017] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: In the second switching position, the multi-way switching valve connects the first outlet to the second inlet, the third outlet to the first inlet, the second outlet to the third inlet, and the fourth inlet to the fourth outlet; in the third switching position, the first outlet to the second inlet, the third outlet to the first inlet, the second outlet to the fourth inlet, and the fourth outlet to the third inlet; in the fourth switching position, the first outlet to the third inlet, the third outlet to the first inlet, the second outlet to the fourth inlet, and the fourth outlet to the second inlet.

[0018] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: the base member includes a cylindrical recess that rotatably accommodates the multi-way switching valve about a predetermined axis. The cylindrical recess includes a first inner circumferential surface and a second inner circumferential surface divided in the direction of the axis, four openings arranged circumferentially on the first inner circumferential surface, and four openings arranged circumferentially on the second inner circumferential surface. The multi-way switching valve is rotatably disposed in the cylindrical recess about the axis and is cylindrical in shape. It includes 15 hollow passage portions arranged and opened on the first outer circumferential surface corresponding to the first inner circumferential surface, and 15 hollow passage portions arranged and opened on the second outer circumferential surface corresponding to the second inner circumferential surface, so as to form an operating state from the first switching position to the fifth switching position.

[0019] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: the four openings arranged on the first inner circumferential surface are equivalent to the third outlet, the second inlet, the fourth outlet, and the fourth inlet; and the four openings arranged on the second inner circumferential surface are equivalent to the first inlet, the first outlet, the third inlet, and the second outlet.

[0020] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: the multi-way switching valve includes: a longitudinal groove passage portion, which connects the hollow passage portion of the first outer peripheral surface arranged in the axial direction with the hollow passage portion of the second outer peripheral surface, so as to connect the third outlet with the first inlet and the second inlet and connect the second outlet with the first inlet and the second inlet; and the hollow passage portion of the first outer peripheral surface and the hollow passage portion of the second outer peripheral surface formed for communication with the longitudinal groove passage portion.

[0021] The multi-way switching valve device can adopt the following structure: the multi-way switching valve includes: a rotating shaft with the axis as the center; a first hollow part and a second hollow part, which are hollowed out on both sides around the rotating shaft from the direction of the axis; and a connecting hole to connect the first hollow part and the second hollow part.

[0022] The multi-way switching valve device can be structured as follows: the first fluid passage is a heat medium passage for heat exchange with the battery; the second fluid passage is a heat medium passage for heat exchange with the drive motor that drives the wheels; the third fluid passage is a heat medium passage for heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant passage; and the fourth fluid passage is a heat medium passage for heat exchange with the outside air via the radiator.

[0023] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted, wherein the base component includes: a first inlet side passage and a first outlet side passage forming part of a first heat medium passage, a second inlet side passage and a second outlet side passage forming part of a second heat medium passage, a third inlet side passage and a third outlet side passage forming part of a third heat medium passage, and a fourth inlet side passage and a fourth outlet side passage forming part of a fourth heat medium passage.

[0024] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: a first electric pump for pressurizing and conveying the hot medium is arranged in the base member on the first inlet side passage.

[0025] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: a second electric pump for pressurizing the hot medium is arranged in the base member on the second inlet side passage.

[0026] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: a storage tank through which the heating medium passes is arranged in the base component and in the second outlet side passage.

[0027] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: on the base member, in the second outlet side passage, a first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger is arranged to facilitate heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat medium.

[0028] The multi-way switching valve device may have the following structure: the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger includes a heat exchange section, an intermediate passage forming part of the second heat medium passage, and a first refrigerant passage forming part of the refrigerant passage, with an on / off valve disposed on the upstream side of the first refrigerant passage.

[0029] In the multi-way switching valve device, a structure can be adopted in which a second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger is arranged between the base member, the third inlet side passage and the third outlet side passage to facilitate heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat medium.

[0030] In the multi-way switching valve device, the following structure can be adopted: the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger includes a heat exchange section, an intermediate passage connecting the third inlet side passage and the third outlet side passage, and a second refrigerant passage that constitutes part of the refrigerant passage, with an expansion valve arranged on the upstream side of the second refrigerant passage.

[0031] [The effects of the invention]

[0032] By presenting the structure of the multi-way switching valve device, fluids with different state variables (e.g., temperature) can be mixed, achieving miniaturization, system simplification, and reduction of the number of parts, and in particular, a multi-way switching valve device suitable for temperature regulation systems of electric vehicles can be obtained. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a system diagram illustrating a temperature control system incorporating a multi-way switching valve device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the appearance of a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment, viewed from an obliquely upward direction.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the appearance of a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment, viewed from an obliquely upward direction.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0037] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a base member that constitutes part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the cylindrical recess of the base member that constitutes part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment, obtained by cutting through a surface passing through the axis.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a partial plan view of the area of ​​the cylindrical recess of the base member that constitutes part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment, viewed from the direction of the axis.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view obtained by cutting a base member that constitutes part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment with a plane perpendicular to the axis.

[0042] Figure 10This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view obtained by cutting a base member that constitutes part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment with a plane perpendicular to the axis.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the multi-way switching valve, which is part of a multi-way switching valve device constituting one embodiment, viewed from an obliquely upward angle.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the multi-way switching valve, which is part of a multi-way switching valve device constituting one embodiment, viewed from a slightly lower angle.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a plan view of a multi-way switching valve, which is part of a multi-way switching valve device constituting one embodiment, viewed from above.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the area of ​​the first outer peripheral surface (upper section) of a multi-way switching valve, which is part of a multi-way switching valve device constituting one embodiment, with a plane perpendicular to the axis.

[0047] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the area of ​​the second outer peripheral surface (lower section) of a multi-way switching valve, which is part of a multi-way switching valve device constituting one embodiment, with a plane perpendicular to the axis.

[0048] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the middle region of the first outer peripheral surface (upper section) and the second outer peripheral surface (lower section) of a multi-way switching valve that constitutes part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment with a plane perpendicular to the axis.

[0049] Figure 17 This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the area of ​​the first outer peripheral surface (upper section) of a multi-way switching valve that constitutes part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment with a plane perpendicular to the axis.

[0050] Figure 18 This is a three-dimensional perspective view showing the result of simulating the flow of fluid (heat medium) at the mixing switching position (fifth switching position) in a multi-way switching valve that is part of a multi-way switching valve device constituting one embodiment.

[0051] Figure 19 This is a perspective view showing the sealing member and the spacer member that constitute a part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment.

[0052] Figure 20 This is a partial cross-sectional view obtained by cutting through a plane including the axis in the region of the multi-way switching valve and drive unit of the multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment.

[0053] Figure 21This is a perspective view showing the interior of a drive unit that constitutes part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment.

[0054] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger and a second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger that constitute part of a multi-way switching valve device in one embodiment.

[0055] Figure 23 This is a system diagram showing the flow of fluid (heat medium, refrigerant) when the multi-way switching valve is in the first switching position in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment.

[0056] Figure 24 It is a diagram showing the state of the multi-way switching valve when the multi-way switching valve is in the first switching position in a multi-way switching valve device according to an embodiment, and is a partial cross-sectional view of the area of ​​the first outer peripheral surface (upper section) and the second outer peripheral surface (lower section).

[0057] Figure 25 This is a system diagram showing the flow of fluid (heat medium) in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment when the multi-way switching valve is in the second switching position.

[0058] Figure 26 It is a diagram showing the state of the multi-way switching valve when the multi-way switching valve is in the second switching position in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment, and it is a partial cross-sectional view of the area of ​​the first outer peripheral surface (upper section) and the second outer peripheral surface (lower section).

[0059] Figure 27 This is a system diagram showing the flow of fluid (heat medium) in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment when the multi-way switching valve is in the third switching position.

[0060] Figure 28 This is a diagram showing the state of the multi-way switching valve when it is in the third switching position in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment, and it is a partial cross-sectional view of the area of ​​the first outer peripheral surface (upper section) and the second outer peripheral surface (lower section).

[0061] Figure 29 This is a system diagram showing the flow of fluid (heat medium) in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment when the multi-way switching valve is in the fourth switching position.

[0062] Figure 30 This is a diagram showing the state of the multi-way switching valve when it is in the fourth switching position in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment, and it is a partial cross-sectional view of the area of ​​the first outer peripheral surface (upper section) and the second outer peripheral surface (lower section).

[0063] Figure 31This is a system diagram showing the flow of fluid (heat medium, refrigerant) when the multi-way switching valve is in the fifth switching position (a mixing switching position for mixing fluids (heat medium) with different state quantities) in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment.

[0064] Figure 32 This is a diagram showing the state of the multi-way switching valve when it is in the fifth switching position in a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment, and it is a partial cross-sectional view of the area of ​​the first outer peripheral surface (upper section) and the second outer peripheral surface (lower section).

[0065] Figure 33 This is a graph showing the results of a simulation of the time a battery can maintain a range of managed temperature (target temperature) at the fifth switching position (hybrid switching position) as a comparison between the present invention and the prior art.

[0066] Figure 34 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the contact part of the multi-way switching valve and the stop of the base member, and it is a partial cross-sectional view obtained by cutting with a plane perpendicular to the axis.

[0067] Figure 35 This is a table showing 15 operating modes 1 to 15 at five switching positions in a temperature control system including a multi-way switching valve device according to one embodiment.

[0068] Explanation of icon numbers

[0069] Fp1: First heat medium passage (first fluid passage)

[0070] Fp2: Second heat medium passage (second fluid passage)

[0071] Fp3: Third heat medium passage (third fluid passage)

[0072] Fp4: Fourth heat medium passage (fourth fluid passage)

[0073] 1: Storage battery

[0074] 2: Car charger

[0075] 3: Electric heating element

[0076] 4: Vehicle control unit

[0077] 5: Converter

[0078] 6: Inverter

[0079] 7: Oil heat exchanger

[0080] 8: Rear drive motor

[0081] 9: Oil passage

[0082] 10: Oil pump (third electric pump)

[0083] 11: Inverter

[0084] 12: Oil heat exchanger

[0085] 13: Front drive motor

[0086] 14: Oil passage

[0087] 15: Oil pump (third electric pump)

[0088] 16: Radiator

[0089] 17: Liquid reservoir

[0090] 18: Compressor

[0091] 19: On / off valve

[0092] 20: Condenser

[0093] 21: Expansion valve

[0094] 22: Evaporator

[0095] M: Multi-way switching valve device

[0096] 100: Base components

[0097] 101: Recessed part of the cylinder

[0098] S: Axis

[0099] 101a: Inner circumferential surface

[0100] 101a1: First inner circumferential surface

[0101] 101a2: Second inner circumferential surface

[0102] I1, I2, I3, I4: Entrance (4 openings)

[0103] O1, O2, O3, O4: Exits (4 openings)

[0104] 102: First inlet side passage (first heat medium passage)

[0105] 102a: First Entrance

[0106] 102b: First downstream port

[0107] 102c: First pump receiving recess

[0108] 103: First outlet side passage (first heat medium passage)

[0109] 103a: First Exit

[0110] 103b: First upstream port

[0111] 104: Second inlet side passage (second heat medium passage)

[0112] 104a: Second Entrance

[0113] 104b: Second downstream port

[0114] 104c: Second pump receiving recess

[0115] 105: Second outlet side passage (second heat medium passage)

[0116] 105a: Second Exit

[0117] 105b: Second upstream port

[0118] 105c: Branch port

[0119] 105d, 105e: Two disconnect points

[0120] 106: Third inlet side passage (third heat medium passage)

[0121] 106a: Third Entrance

[0122] 106b: Third downstream port

[0123] 107: Third outlet side passage (third heat medium passage)

[0124] 107a: Third Exit

[0125] 107b: Third upstream port

[0126] 108: Fourth inlet side passage (fourth heat medium passage)

[0127] 108a: Fourth Entrance

[0128] 108b: Fourth downstream port

[0129] 109: Fourth outlet side passage (fourth heat medium passage)

[0130] 109a: Fourth Exit

[0131] 109b: Fourth upstream port

[0132] 110: Cover component

[0133] 120: Multi-port switching valve

[0134] 120a: outer peripheral surface

[0135] 120a1: First outer peripheral surface

[0136] 120a2: Second outer peripheral surface

[0137] 121: Rotation axis

[0138] 122: First hollow section

[0139] 123: Second hollow section

[0140] 124: Divider

[0141] 124a: Connecting hole

[0142] 125a~125o: 15 hollow passages on the first outer peripheral surface 120a1

[0143] 126a~126o: 15 hollow passages on the second outer peripheral surface 120a2

[0144] Vg: Longitudinal groove passage section

[0145] 127: Contact Department

[0146] 130: Sealing component

[0147] 140: Spacing member

[0148] 150: Drive Unit

[0149] 152: Motor

[0150] 153, 154: Reduction gears

[0151] 155: Gear

[0152] 155b: The part being inspected

[0153] 156: Hall IC

[0154] 160: Water pump (first electric pump)

[0155] 170: Water pump (second electric pump)

[0156] 180: Storage tank

[0157] 190: First refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger

[0158] 191: Shell

[0159] 192: Heat Exchange Section

[0160] 193: Intermediate Path

[0161] 194: First refrigerant passage

[0162] 195: On / off valve

[0163] 200: Second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger

[0164] 201: Shell

[0165] 202: Heat Exchange Section

[0166] 203: Intermediate Pathway

[0167] 204: Second refrigerant passage

[0168] 205: Expansion valve Detailed Implementation

[0169] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0170] The multi-way switching valve device of the present invention is used, for example, in a temperature control system in an electric vehicle. This temperature control system exchanges heat between the cooling water (e.g., long-life coolant, LLC) and the refrigerant (e.g., Freon-based gas) in the electric vehicle (EV) air conditioning (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system, various functional components (battery, drive motor, etc.), and the cooling water as a heat medium, thereby controlling the temperature of the various functional components at the desired temperature.

[0171] Here, as Figure 1 As shown, the temperature control system includes: a first heat medium passage Fp1 as a first fluid passage, a second heat medium passage Fp2 as a second fluid passage, a third heat medium passage Fp3 as a third fluid passage, a fourth heat medium passage Fp4 as a fourth fluid passage, a refrigerant passage Rp, a battery 1, an on-board charger 2, an electric heating element 3, a vehicle control unit 4, a converter 5, an inverter 6, an oil heat exchanger 7, a rear drive motor 8, an oil passage 9, an oil pump 10 as a third electric pump, an inverter 11, an oil heat exchanger 12, a front drive motor 13, an oil passage 14, an oil pump 15 as a third electric pump, a radiator 16, an accumulator 17, a compressor 18, an on / off valve 19, a condenser 20, an expansion valve 21, an evaporator 22, a blower 23, a multi-way switching valve device M, and other parts.

[0172] Here, the condenser 20, evaporator 22, and blower 23 are located inside the carriage IC or in an area connected to the carriage IC.

[0173] like Figures 1 to 5As shown, a multi-port switching valve device M according to one embodiment includes: a base member 100, a cover member 110, a multi-port switching valve 120, a sealing member 130, a spacer member 140, a drive unit 150, a water pump 160 as a first electric pump, a water pump 170 as a second electric pump, a liquid storage tank 180, a first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190, and a second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200.

[0174] The first heat medium passage Fp1 is configured with inlet I1 and outlet O1 facing the multi-way switching valve 120 of the multi-way switching valve device M. Moreover, in the first heat medium passage Fp1, a water pump 160, an electric heating element 3, a vehicle control unit 4, a storage battery 1, and an on-board charger 2 are arranged sequentially from inlet I1 to outlet O1.

[0175] The storage battery 1 is, for example, a high-voltage battery of 300 V to 400 V, which is mainly used as the power source for the rear drive motor 8 and the front drive motor 13. It is configured in the position of the insulating heat exchange structure (not shown) facing the first heat medium passage Fp1 so that it can exchange heat with the cooling water flowing in the first heat medium passage Fp1.

[0176] In addition, power sources for other electrical components include, for example, low-voltage batteries (not shown) ranging from 12 V to 48 V.

[0177] The on-board charger 2, when charging the battery 1, converts the voltage of, for example, an EV charging station or household AC power supply to the required voltage. It is positioned in the insulating heat exchange structure (not shown) facing the first heat medium passage Fp1 so that it can exchange heat with the cooling water flowing in the first heat medium passage Fp1.

[0178] The electric heating element 3 uses the battery 1 as a power source for heating. For example, a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater is used, and it is positioned facing the first heat medium passage Fp1 so that it can exchange heat with the cooling water flowing in the first heat medium passage Fp1. Here, when using a PTC heater as the electric heating element 3, its resistance increases with its temperature due to its own adjustment characteristics, thereby limiting the current flow and reducing power consumption waste.

[0179] The vehicle control unit 4 is a control unit that starts up using a low-voltage battery as a power source and is responsible for various controls of the vehicle. It is configured in the position of the heat exchange structure (not shown) facing the first heat medium passage Fp1 so that it can exchange heat with the cooling water flowing in the first heat medium passage Fp1.

[0180] The second heat medium passage Fp2 is configured such that its inlet I2 and outlet O2 face the multi-way switching valve 120 of the multi-way switching valve device M. Furthermore, in the second heat medium passage Fp2, a water pump 170, a converter 5, an inverter 6, an oil heat exchanger 7, an inverter 11, an oil heat exchanger 12, a liquid storage tank 180, and a first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 are arranged sequentially from the inlet I2 toward the outlet O2.

[0181] The converter 5 is a DC-DC converter that reduces the voltage of the battery 1 to a low voltage (e.g., 12 V to 48 V) suitable for charging low-voltage batteries. It is configured in the insulating heat exchange structure (not shown) facing the second heat medium passage Fp2 so that it can exchange heat with the cooling water flowing in the second heat medium passage Fp2.

[0182] In order to make the voltage of the battery 1 suitable for driving the rear drive motor 8, the inverter 6 converts DC to AC and boosts the voltage to a high voltage (e.g., 300 V to 800 V). It is positioned in the insulating heat exchange structure (not shown) facing the second heat medium passage Fp2 so that it can exchange heat with the cooling water flowing in the second heat medium passage Fp2.

[0183] The oil heat exchanger 7 is configured to transfer the heat generated by the rear drive motor 8 to the cooling water via oil. It is positioned facing the second heat medium passage Fp2 so that heat exchange can occur between the cooling water and the oil flowing in the second heat medium passage Fp2.

[0184] The rear drive motor 8 drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. The oil pump 10 circulates the oil flowing in the oil passage 9, thereby cooling the oil through heat exchange with the cooling water. In addition, the oil pump 10 is driven by a low-voltage battery.

[0185] In order to make the voltage of the battery 1 suitable for the drive of the front drive motor 13, the inverter 11 converts DC to AC and boosts the voltage to a high voltage (e.g., 300 V to 800 V). It is positioned in the insulating heat exchange structure (not shown) facing the second heat medium passage Fp2 so that it can exchange heat with the cooling water flowing in the second heat medium passage Fp2.

[0186] The oil heat exchanger 12 is configured to transfer the heat generated by the front drive motor 13 to the cooling water via oil. It is positioned facing the second heat medium passage Fp2 so that heat exchange can occur between the cooling water and the oil flowing in the second heat medium passage Fp2.

[0187] The front drive motor 13 drives the front wheels of the vehicle, and the oil pump 15 circulates the oil flowing in the oil passage 14, thereby cooling the oil through heat exchange with the cooling water. In addition, the oil pump 15 is driven by a low-voltage battery.

[0188] The third heat medium passage Fp3 is configured with its inlet I3 and outlet O3 facing the multi-port switching valve 120 of the multi-port switching valve device M. Furthermore, a second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is arranged in the middle of the third heat medium passage Fp3.

[0189] The fourth heat medium passage Fp4 is configured with its inlet I4 and outlet O4 facing the multi-way switching valve 120 of the multi-way switching valve device M. Furthermore, a radiator 16 is disposed midway through the fourth heat medium passage Fp4.

[0190] The radiator 16 dissipates heat from the cooling water flowing in the fourth heat medium passage Fp4 to the outside air.

[0191] The refrigerant passage Rp is configured to pass through a first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 and a second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200. Furthermore, the refrigerant passage Rp is equipped with a liquid receiver 17, a compressor 18, an on / off valve 19, a condenser 20, an expansion valve 21, and an evaporator 22.

[0192] The receiver 17 is located downstream of the evaporator 22 and upstream of the compressor 18 in the refrigerant passage Rp, so as to separate the refrigerant into gas and liquid and deliver only the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor 18.

[0193] The compressor 18 is driven by the battery 1 as a power source, and compresses the refrigerant to a high temperature and high pressure before sending it out.

[0194] The on / off valve 19 is a solenoid valve driven by a low-voltage battery, which opens / closes the refrigerant passage Rp toward the condenser 20.

[0195] The condenser 20 liquefies the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant delivered from the compressor 18 and releases the heat to the outside (inside the vehicle compartment IC).

[0196] The expansion valve 21 is a solenoid valve driven by a low-voltage battery. It is located downstream of the condenser 20 and the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 in the refrigerant passage Rp, causing the refrigerant to expand rapidly and become low temperature and low pressure.

[0197] Evaporator 22 absorbs heat from the outside (inside the vehicle compartment IC) with the help of the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant that has passed through expansion valve 21.

[0198] The blower 23 is driven by a low-voltage battery and generates forced air convection within the vehicle IC to promote the heat dissipation effect based on the condenser 20 and the cooling effect based on the evaporator 22.

[0199] In one embodiment of the multi-port switching valve device M, the base member 100 is molded using a resin material, such as... Figures 6 to 10 The diagram shows: a cylindrical recess 101 centered on axis S; a first inlet side passage 102 and a first outlet side passage 103 forming part of a first heat medium passage Fp1; a second inlet side passage 104 and a second outlet side passage 105 forming part of a second heat medium passage Fp2; a third inlet side passage 106 and a third outlet side passage 107 forming part of a third heat medium passage Fp3; a fourth inlet side passage 108 and a fourth outlet side passage 109 forming part of a fourth heat medium passage Fp4; a plurality of (14) threaded holes H embedded therein; and a plurality of (3) mounting bosses B assembled therefrom.

[0200] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the cylindrical recess 101, on its inner circumferential surface 101a centered on axis S, includes multiple openings (inlet I1, outlet O1, inlet I2, outlet O2, inlet I3, outlet O3, inlet I4, outlet O4) within an angular range θ1 (approximately 110 degrees in this case) narrower than half its circumference. Here, as... Figure 7 As shown, the inner circumferential surface 101a includes a first inner circumferential surface 101a1 and a second inner circumferential surface 101a2 divided in the direction of axis S. The first inner circumferential surface 101a1 has four openings (outlet O3, inlet I2, outlet O4, inlet I4) arranged in the circumferential direction, and the second inner circumferential surface 101a2 has four openings (inlet I1, outlet O1, inlet I3, outlet O2) arranged in the circumferential direction.

[0201] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, the inner circumferential surface 101a includes: a pair of protrusions 101b, which position the sealing member 130 at a position corresponding to the angle range θ1; and a pair of protrusions 101c, which position the spacer member 140 within an angle range θ2 (θ1=θ2) located in a region opposite to the angle range θ1 but separated by the axis S.

[0202] Furthermore, the cylindrical recess 101 as Figure 8 The bottom wall 101d includes a bearing recess 101e that supports the end 121a of the rotating shaft 121 of the multi-way switching valve 120, and a stop 101f that restricts rotation. Figure 6 As shown, the flange portion 101g includes an annular sealing groove 101h for inserting an O-ring Sr1 and five threaded holes 101i.

[0203] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 As shown, the first inlet side passage 102 includes: a first inlet 102a for cooling water to flow into the first heat medium passage Fp1, a first downstream port 102b, and a first pump receiving recess 102c located in the middle.

[0204] The first inlet 102a is the inlet I1 that opens on the second inner circumferential surface 101a2.

[0205] The first downstream port 102b is connected to the first heat medium passage Fp1, which is located upstream of the electric heating element 3.

[0206] The first pump receiving recess 102c is the area that receives the water pump 160, such as Figure 6 The opening shown is parallel to the axis S and faces the same direction as the cylindrical recess 101, and includes a flange 102c1 at its opening end for fixing the water pump 160.

[0207] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 10 As shown, the first outlet side passage 103 includes: a first outlet 103a for cooling water to flow from the first heat medium passage Fp1 into the cylindrical recess 101, and a first upstream port 103b.

[0208] The first outlet 103a is the outlet O1 that opens on the second inner circumferential surface 101a2.

[0209] The first upstream port 103b is connected to the first thermal medium passage Fp1, which is located downstream of the vehicle charger 2.

[0210] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 As shown, the second inlet side passage 104 includes: a second inlet 104a for cooling water to flow into the second heat medium passage Fp2, a second downstream port 104b, and a second pump receiving recess 104c located in the middle.

[0211] The second inlet 104a is the inlet I2 that opens on the first inner circumferential surface 101a1.

[0212] The second downstream port 104b is connected to the second thermal medium passage Fp2, which is located upstream of converter 5.

[0213] The second pump receiving recess 104c is the area that receives the water pump 170. It is formed to open parallel to the axis S and in the same direction as the cylindrical recess 101. At its opening end, there is a flange portion 104c1 for fixing the water pump 170.

[0214] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 As shown, the second outlet side passage 105 includes: a second outlet 105a, for cooling water to flow out from the second heat medium passage Fp2 into the cylindrical recess 101; a second upstream port 105b; a branch port 105c, which opens in the middle of the second outlet side passage 105, parallel to the axis S and facing the same direction as the cylindrical recess 101; and two disconnect ports 105d and 105e, which are disconnected in the middle at a downstream side than the branch port 105c, and open in the same direction as the cylindrical recess 101, parallel to the axis S.

[0215] The second outlet 105a is the outlet O2 that opens on the second inner circumferential surface 101a2.

[0216] The second upstream port 105b is connected to the second heat medium passage Fp2, which is located further downstream than the oil heat exchanger 12.

[0217] At branch port 105c, it is connected to the liquid storage tank 180 in a manner that connects from the axis S.

[0218] The two disconnect ports 105d and 105e are connected to the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 in a manner that connects from the axis S.

[0219] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 10 As shown, the third inlet side passage 106 includes a third inlet 106a for cooling water to flow into the third heat medium passage Fp3, and a third downstream port 106b.

[0220] The third inlet 106a is inlet I3, which opens on the second inner circumferential surface 101a2.

[0221] The third downstream port 106b is formed to open parallel to the axis S and in the same orientation as the cylindrical recess 101.

[0222] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 As shown, the third outlet side passage 107 includes a third outlet 107a for cooling water to flow from the third heat medium passage Fp3 into the cylindrical recess 101, and a third upstream port 107b.

[0223] The third outlet 107a is the outlet O3 that opens on the first inner circumferential surface 101a1.

[0224] The third upstream port 107b is formed to open parallel to the axis S and in the same orientation as the cylindrical recess 101.

[0225] Furthermore, the third downstream port 106b and the third upstream port 107b are connected to the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 in a manner that connects from the S-axis direction.

[0226] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 As shown, the fourth inlet side passage 108 includes a fourth inlet 108a for cooling water to flow into the fourth heat medium passage Fp4, and a fourth downstream port 108b.

[0227] The fourth inlet 108a is the inlet I4 that opens on the first inner circumferential surface 101a1.

[0228] The fourth downstream port 108b is formed to open parallel to the axis S and in the same orientation as the cylindrical recess 101.

[0229] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 As shown, the fourth outlet side passage 109 includes: a fourth outlet 109a for cooling water to flow from the fourth heat medium passage Fp4 into the cylindrical recess 101, and a fourth upstream port 109b.

[0230] The fourth outlet 109a is the outlet O4 that opens on the first inner circumferential surface 101a1.

[0231] The fourth upstream port 109b is formed to open parallel to the axis S and in the same orientation as the cylindrical recess 101.

[0232] Furthermore, the fourth downstream port 108b and the fourth upstream port 109b are connected to the connection portion of the heat sink 16 that constitutes part of the fourth heat medium passage Fp4 in a manner that communicates from the axis S direction.

[0233] The cover member 110 is formed of resin material in a generally circular plate shape, covering the cylindrical recess 101 and serving as a base for fixing the drive unit 150, such as... Figure 5 The device includes: a circular hole 111 through which the end 121b of the rotating shaft 121 of the multi-way switching valve 120 passes; an annular joint 112 that engages with the flange 101g of the cylindrical recess 101; five transverse arms 113 that protrude from the annular joint 112 and have circular holes through which screws b2 pass; and three bosses 114 that have threaded holes into which screws b2 are screwed to fix the drive unit 150.

[0234] The multi-way switching valve 120 is molded from resin material into a cylindrical shape centered on axis S, such as... Figures 11 to 17The device includes: a rotating shaft 121 centered on axis S; a first hollow portion 122 and a second hollow portion 123 formed by hollowing out both sides of the rotating shaft 121 in the direction of axis S; a partition wall 124 separating the first hollow portion 122 and the second hollow portion 123; 15 hollow passage portions 125a to 125o of the first outer peripheral surface 120a divided in the direction of axis S in the outer peripheral surface 120a; 15 hollow passage portions 126a to 126o of the second outer peripheral surface 120a2; and an abutment portion 127 located near the second hollow portion 123.

[0235] The rotating shaft 121 includes various ends 121a, 121b and an annular sealing portion 121c formed on the end 121b side.

[0236] The end 121a is inserted into the bearing recess 101e formed on the bottom wall 101d of the cylindrical recess 101 of the base member 100, and is rotatably supported.

[0237] End 121b passes through the circular hole 111 of the cover member 110 and is connected to the gear 155 of the drive unit 150.

[0238] like Figure 20 As shown, the annular sealing part 121c and the cover member 110 cooperate to clamp the O-ring Sr2.

[0239] The partition wall 124 includes a plurality of connecting holes 124a that connect the first hollow portion 122 and the second hollow portion 123.

[0240] like Figure 14 As shown, the openwork passage portions 125a to 125o are arranged radially and are formed to extend centrally toward the rotation axis 121.

[0241] In addition, the hollow passage portions 125a and 125b are connected on the inside, the hollow passage portions 125e and 125f are connected on the inside, and the hollow passage portions 125j and 125k are connected on the inside.

[0242] like Figure 15 As shown, the openwork passage portions 126a to 126o are arranged radially and are formed to extend centrally toward the rotation axis 121.

[0243] In addition, the hollow passage portions 126a and 126b are connected on the inside, the hollow passage portions 126c and 126d are connected on the inside, the hollow passage portions 126e and 126h are connected on the inside, the hollow passage portions 126f and 126g are connected on the inside, and the hollow passage portions 126j and 126k are connected on the inside.

[0244] Furthermore, such as Figure 16 As shown, the hollowed-out passage portions 125e and 126e, 125i and 126i, 1251 and 1261, 125m and 126m, 125n and 126n, 125o and 126o are respectively formed as longitudinal groove passage portions Vg that are interconnected in the direction of axis S.

[0245] In the structure described above, it is formed as follows: Figure 17 As indicated by the arrows, cooling water flowing into the perforated passage 125e flows out from the perforated passage 126e and perforated passage 125f, while cooling water flowing into the perforated passage 126h flows out from the perforated passage 125f and perforated passage 126e. Therefore, the cooling water flowing into the perforated passage 125e mixes with the cooling water flowing into the perforated passage 126h, flowing out from the perforated passage 126e and out from the perforated passage 125f.

[0246] That is, the multi-way switching valve 120 is formed to include: a longitudinal groove passage Vg that connects the hollow passage portion 125e of the first outer peripheral surface 120a1 with the hollow passage portion 126e of the second outer peripheral surface 120a2; and a hollow passage portion 125f of the first outer peripheral surface 120a1 and a hollow passage portion 126h of the second outer peripheral surface 120a2 formed for communicating with the longitudinal groove passage portion Vg.

[0247] Figure 18 Indicates to Figure 17 The simulation results of the fluid flow shown are as follows, as can be seen from the streamline diagram: Cooling water flowing in from the perforated passage 125e bends its flow direction after impacting the inner wall, flowing downwards towards the perforated passage 126e and then towards the transverse perforated passage 125f. Cooling water flowing in from the perforated passage 126h bends its flow direction after impacting the inner wall, flowing towards the perforated passage 126e and then towards the upper perforated passage 125f. Therefore, the fluid flowing in the perforated passages 126e and 125f flows out in a mixed flow pattern.

[0248] Here, in particular, by setting an angle R in the RS region to form a streamlined shape, and by adding a slope (inclined surface) in the SL region, the cooling water can flow smoothly to each passage while mixing.

[0249] like Figure 8As shown, the abutting portion 127 abuts against the stop member 101f formed on the bottom wall 101d of the cylindrical recess 101 of the base member 100, restricting the rotation of the multi-way switching valve 120. That is, the multi-way switching valve 120 rotates clockwise CW and counterclockwise CCW around the axis S to abut against the stop member 101f, thereby restricting further rotation of the multi-way switching valve 120.

[0250] like Figure 19 As shown, the sealing member 130 is assembled into an arcuate plate shape centered on axis S, including: an outer arcuate plate 131 formed of rubber material; an inner arcuate plate 132 formed of crystalline resin material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or other fluororesin; and a plurality of (eight in this case) rectangular holes 133 that are generally rectangular.

[0251] Multiple rectangular holes 133 are formed to correspond to multiple openings (first inlet 102a, first outlet 103a, second inlet 104a, second outlet 105a, third inlet 106a, third outlet 107a, fourth inlet 108a, and fourth outlet 109a) formed on the inner peripheral surface 101a of the cylindrical recess 101.

[0252] Moreover, such as Figure 8 and Figure 20 As shown, the sealing member 130 is disposed between the inner circumferential surface 101a of the cylindrical recess 101 of the base member 100 and the outer circumferential surface 120a of the multi-way switching valve 120 at a position corresponding to the angle range θ1 between a pair of protrusions 101b.

[0253] like Figure 19 As shown, the spacer member 140 is assembled into an arcuate plate shape centered on axis S, including: an outer arcuate plate 141 formed of rubber material; and an inner arcuate plate 142 formed of crystalline resin material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or other fluororesins.

[0254] Moreover, such as Figure 8 and Figure 20 As shown, the spacer member 140 is disposed between the inner circumferential surface 101a of the cylindrical recess 101 of the base member 100 and the outer circumferential surface 120a of the multi-way switching valve 120 in a position corresponding to the angle range θ2, that is, in a region opposite to the sealing member 130 across the axis S.

[0255] Thus, the sealing member 130 and the spacer member 140 are configured to face each other across the axis S, thereby achieving the self-aligning effect of the multi-way switching valve 120. Compared with the case where the sealing member is configured over the entire circumference, the sliding resistance can be reduced, and the driving force of the multi-way switching valve 120 can be reduced.

[0256] like Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, the drive unit 150 includes a housing 151, a motor 152 with a drive gear 152a, a reduction gear 153, a reduction gear 154, a gear 155, and a Hall integrated circuit (IC) 156.

[0257] The housing 151 surrounds the entire structure except for the connecting hole 155a of the gear 155, and includes the housing body 151a and the housing cover 151b, as shown below. Figure 20 As shown, it includes three bosses 151a1 through which screw b2 passes.

[0258] Motor 152 is, for example, a direct current (DC) motor driven by a low-voltage battery.

[0259] The gear 155 includes a connecting hole 155a for connecting to the end 121b of the rotating shaft 121, and a detection part 155b containing a permanent magnet and the like and embedded therein.

[0260] Hall IC 156 is disposed on housing 151b facing the detected part 155b to detect the rotational position of multi-way switching valve 120.

[0261] The drive unit 150, which presents the structure, engages with the outer side of the cover member 110 from the direction of axis S and is fixed to the cover member 110 by screw b2.

[0262] Water pump 160 is an electric centrifugal pump driven by a low-voltage battery, such as... Figure 5 As shown, it includes a fitting flange portion 161 and two boss portions 161a through which the screw b1 passes. Moreover, the water pump 160 is arranged in the first pump receiving recess 102c of the base member 100 from the axis S direction, and the fitting flange portion 161 engages with the flange portion 102c1 and is fixed to the base member 100 by the screw b1.

[0263] Water pump 170 is an electric centrifugal pump driven by a low-voltage battery, such as... Figure 5 As shown, it includes a fitting flange portion 171 and two boss portions 171a through which the screw b1 passes. Moreover, the water pump 170 is arranged in the second pump receiving recess 104c of the base member 100 from the direction of the axis S, and the fitting flange portion 171 engages with the flange portion 104c1 and is fixed to the base member 100 by the screw b1.

[0264] The liquid storage tank 180 allows cooling water to pass through and adjusts the internal pressure, which varies according to changes in the cooling water temperature. Figure 5As shown, it includes: a passage portion 181 forming an internal passage (not shown) communicating with the branch port 105c, and two boss portions 182 through which screws b1 pass. Moreover, the liquid storage tank 180 is engaged with the branch port 105c in a manner communicating from the axis S direction, and is fixed to the base member 100 via the boss portions 182 by screws b1.

[0265] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 enables heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant passage Rp and the cooling water flowing in the second heat medium passage Fp2, and is disposed in the base member 100 further downstream than the liquid storage tank 180 of the second outlet side passage 105.

[0266] like Figure 5 and Figure 22 As shown, the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 includes: a housing 191, a heat exchange section 192 in which multiple metal plates with high heat transfer are arranged inside the housing 191, an intermediate passage 193 forming part of the second heat medium passage Fp2, i.e., the second outlet side passage 105, a first refrigerant passage 194 forming part of the refrigerant passage Rp, and an on / off valve 195 disposed on the upstream side of the first refrigerant passage 194.

[0267] The housing 191 includes four bosses 191a through which screws b1 pass, an inlet joint 193a and an outlet joint 193b of the intermediate passage 193, and an inlet connection 194a and an outlet connection 194b of the first refrigerant passage 194.

[0268] The on / off valve 195 is a solenoid valve driven by a low-voltage battery, which opens / closes the upstream side of the first refrigerant passage 194.

[0269] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 enables heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant passage Rp and the cooling water flowing in the third heat medium passage Fp3, and is disposed in the base member 100 between the third inlet side passage 106 and the third outlet side passage 107.

[0270] like Figure 5 and Figure 22 As shown, the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 includes: a housing 201, a heat exchange section 202 in which multiple metal plates with high heat transfer are arranged inside the housing 201, an intermediate passage 203 connecting the third inlet side passage 106 and the third outlet side passage 107, a second refrigerant passage 204 forming part of the refrigerant passage Rp, and an expansion valve 205 disposed on the upstream side of the second refrigerant passage 204.

[0271] The housing 201 includes four bosses 201a through which screws b1 pass, an inlet joint 203a and an outlet joint 203b of the intermediate passage 203, and an inlet connection 204a and an outlet connection 204b of the second refrigerant passage 204.

[0272] The expansion valve 205 is a solenoid valve driven by a low-voltage battery, which opens the upstream side of the second refrigerant passage 204 to allow the refrigerant to expand.

[0273] Next, the assembly operation of the multi-way switching valve device M with the described structure will be described.

[0274] Prepare in advance, such as Figure 5 The components shown include: base component 100, cover component 110, multi-way switching valve 120, sealing component 130, spacer component 140, drive unit 150, water pump 160, water pump 170, liquid storage tank 180, first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190, second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200, O-ring Sr1, O-ring Sr2, and multiple screws b1 and b2.

[0275] First, the sealing member 130 and the spacer member 140 are respectively disposed in the cylindrical recess 101 of the base member 100 between a pair of protrusions 101b and 101c from the direction of axis S.

[0276] Next, the multi-way switching valve 120 with O-ring Sr2 is inserted into the cylindrical recess 101 from the axis S direction, and the end 121a is inserted into the bearing recess 101e.

[0277] Next, the O-ring Sr1 is inserted into the annular sealing groove 101h of the flange portion 101g, and the cover member 110 engages with the flange portion 101g of the base member 100 from the axial direction S and is fixed by screw b2. In the assembled state, the end 121b of the multi-way switching valve 120 is exposed to the outside through the circular hole 111.

[0278] Next, the drive unit 150 approaches the cover member 110 from the axis S direction, inserts the end 121b into the connecting hole 155a of the gear 155, and fixes it to the cover member 110 by screw b2.

[0279] Next, the water pump 160 is inserted into the first pump receiving recess 102c of the base member 100 from the axis S direction and fixed by screw b1.

[0280] Next, the water pump 170 is inserted into the second pump receiving recess 104c of the base member 100 from the direction of axis S and fixed by screw b1.

[0281] Next, the storage tank 180 is engaged with the base member 100 from the S-axis direction in a manner communicating with the branch port 105c and is fixed by screws b1.

[0282] Next, the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is joined to the base member 100 from the axis S direction and fixed by screws b1 so that the two disconnect ports 105d and 105e are connected to the intermediate passage 193.

[0283] Next, the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is joined to the base member 100 from the S-axis direction and fixed by screws b1 so that the third downstream port 106b and the third upstream port 107b are connected to the intermediate passage 203.

[0284] Furthermore, the assembly sequence is not limited to the process described above, and other processes may also be used.

[0285] Thus, relative to the base member 100, various parts (cover member 110, multi-way switching valve 120, sealing member 130, spacer member 140, drive unit 150, water pump 160, water pump 170, liquid storage tank 180, first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190, second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200) can be assembled from one side of the axis S direction, thereby reducing the number of assembly steps and thus reducing assembly time.

[0286] Furthermore, by employing an assembly method that assembles from one side along the S-axis, multiple passages (first inlet side passage 102, first outlet side passage 103, second inlet side passage 104, second outlet side passage 105, third inlet side passage 106, third outlet side passage 107, fourth inlet side passage 108, and fourth outlet side passage 109) can be radially arranged around the cylindrical recess 101 and integrally formed, thereby achieving simplification of the configuration structure, reduction of the number of parts, and thinning of the device along the S-axis.

[0287] Next, the operation of the temperature control system, which includes the multi-way switching valve device M, will be explained.

[0288] When the multi-way switching valve 120 is in the first switching position, such as Figure 23 and Figure 24As shown, the first outlet-side passage 103 is connected to the first inlet-side passage 102 by connecting the first outlet 103a (outlet O1) and the first inlet 102a (inlet I1) to the hollow passage portion 126b and the hollow passage portion 126a respectively, and the third outlet-side passage 107a (outlet O3) and the second inlet 104a (inlet I2) are connected to the hollow passage portion 125a and the hollow passage portion 125b respectively, and the third outlet-side passage 107 is connected to the second inlet-side passage 104. The second outlet-side passage 105 is connected to the third inlet-side passage 106 by connecting the second outlet 105a (outlet O2) and the third inlet 106a (inlet I3) to the hollow passage portion 126d and the hollow passage portion 126c respectively, and the fourth inlet-side passage 108 and the fourth outlet-side passage 109 are closed by connecting the fourth inlet 108a (inlet I4) and the fourth outlet 109a (outlet O4) to the hollow passage portion 125d and the hollow passage portion 125c respectively.

[0289] Therefore, the first heat transfer medium passage Fp1 becomes a closed loop, and the second heat transfer medium passage Fp2 and the third heat transfer medium passage Fp3 are connected in series to form a closed loop. Thus, by energizing the electric heating element 3 to generate heat, the cooling water in the first heat transfer medium passage Fp1 can be heated, and the heated cooling water can be used to heat the battery 1.

[0290] Additionally, the cooling water heated by the heat generated from the rear drive motor 8 and the front drive motor 13 (or the heat generated from the converter 5, inverter 6, and inverter 11) can be guided to the third heat medium passage Fp3.

[0291] Therefore, in operating mode 1, with the on / off valve 195 and expansion valve 21 in the closed (OFF) state, the on / off valve 19 is set to the open (ON) state, the compressor 18 is started, and the expansion valve 205 is opened. This allows the refrigerant to be heated in the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 using cooling water, and the heat released from the condenser 20 can be used to heat the interior of the vehicle compartment IC. In operating mode 1, when the outside air temperature is low, for example, below -10°C, the power consumption of the battery 1 can be suppressed, the battery 1 can be heated to a suitable temperature, and the exhaust heat generated by the drive motor can be recovered to heat the refrigerant, improving the heating efficiency inside the vehicle compartment IC.

[0292] Additionally, at the first switching position, such as Figure 35 As shown, action mode 2 and action mode 3 are set as other action modes.

[0293] In operation mode 2, the electric heating element 3 is turned on, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is closed, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is closed, and the compressor 18 is turned off, thereby heating the battery 1.

[0294] In operating mode 3, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is opened, and the compressor 18 is turned on, thereby heating the refrigerant.

[0295] When the multi-way switching valve 120 is in the second switching position, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, the first outlet-side passage 103 is connected to the second inlet-side passage 104 by connecting the first outlet 103a (outlet O1) and the second inlet 104a (inlet I2) to the hollow passage portion 126o and the hollow passage portion 125o respectively, thereby connecting the first outlet-side passage 103 to the second inlet-side passage 104. Similarly, the third outlet-side passage 107a (outlet O3) and the first inlet 102a (inlet I1) are connected to the hollow passage portion 125n and the hollow passage portion 126n respectively, thereby connecting the third outlet-side passage 107 to the first inlet-side passage 102. The second outlet-side passage 105 is connected to the third inlet-side passage 106 by connecting the second outlet 105a (outlet O2) and the third inlet 106a (inlet I3) to the hollow passage section 126b and the hollow passage section 126a respectively, and the fourth inlet-side passage 108 is connected to the fourth outlet-side passage 109 by connecting the fourth inlet 108a (inlet I4) and the fourth outlet 109a (outlet O4) to the hollow passage section 125b and the hollow passage section 125a respectively.

[0296] Therefore, the first heat medium passage Fp1, the second heat medium passage Fp2, and the third heat medium passage Fp3 are connected in series to form a closed loop, in which cooling water circulates. In addition, the fourth heat medium passage Fp4 connects the fourth inlet 108a and the fourth outlet 109a to form a closed loop, so no cooling water circulation occurs for the radiator 16.

[0297] At the second switching position, such as Figure 35 As shown, set action modes 4 to 7.

[0298] In operation mode 4, the electric heating element 3 is turned on, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is opened, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is closed, and the compressor 18 is turned on, so that the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 functions as a liquid-cooled condenser, using the electric heating element 3 and refrigerant to heat the cooling water, thereby heating the battery 1.

[0299] In operation mode 5, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is opened, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is closed, and the compressor 18 is turned on, so that the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 functions as a liquid-cooled condenser, using refrigerant to heat the cooling water, thereby heating the battery 1.

[0300] In operation mode 6, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is turned off, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is turned off, and the compressor 18 is turned off. Only the heat generated by the heating parts (rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13, etc.) is used to heat the cooling water, thereby heating the battery 1.

[0301] In operation mode 7, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is closed, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is opened, and the compressor 18 is turned on, so that the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 functions as a chiller to cool the cooling water, thereby cooling the battery 1.

[0302] When the multi-way switching valve 120 is in the third switching position, such as Figure 27 and Figure 28 As shown, the first outlet-side passage 103 is connected to the second inlet-side passage 104 by connecting the first outlet 103a (outlet O1) and the second inlet 104a (inlet I2) to the hollow passage portion 126m and the hollow passage portion 125m respectively, thereby connecting the first outlet-side passage 103 to the second inlet-side passage 104. Similarly, the third outlet-side passage 107a (outlet O3) and the first inlet 102a (inlet I1) are connected to the hollow passage portion 125l and the hollow passage portion 126l respectively, thereby connecting the third outlet-side passage 107 to the first inlet-side passage 102. The second outlet-side passage 105 is connected to the fourth inlet-side passage 108 by connecting the second outlet 105a (outlet O2) and the fourth inlet 108a (inlet I4) to the hollow passage section 126o and the hollow passage section 125o respectively, and the fourth outlet-side passage 109 is connected to the third inlet-side passage 106 by connecting the fourth outlet 109a (outlet O4) and the third inlet 106a (inlet I3) to the hollow passage section 125n and the hollow passage section 126n respectively.

[0303] Therefore, the first heat medium passage Fp1, the second heat medium passage Fp2, the fourth heat medium passage Fp4, and the third heat medium passage Fp3 are connected in series to form a closed loop, in which the cooling water circulates.

[0304] At the third switching position, such as Figure 35As shown, set action mode 8 and action mode 9.

[0305] In operation mode 8, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is closed, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is opened, and the compressor 18 is turned on, so that the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 functions as a cooler to cool the cooling water, and the heat is released to the outside by the radiator 16, thereby cooling the battery 1 and the heat-generating parts (rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13, etc.).

[0306] In operation mode 9, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is turned off, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is turned off, the compressor 18 is turned off, and the heat is released to the outside by the radiator 16, thereby cooling the battery 1 and the heat-generating parts (rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13, etc.).

[0307] When the multi-way switching valve 120 is in the fourth switching position, such as Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown, the first outlet-side passage 103 is connected to the third inlet-side passage 106 by connecting the first outlet 103a (outlet O1) and the third inlet 106a (inlet I3) to the hollow passage portions 126j and 126k respectively, thereby connecting the first outlet-side passage 103 to the third inlet-side passage 106. Similarly, the third outlet-side passage 107a (outlet O3) and the first inlet 102a (inlet I1) are connected to the hollow passage portions 125i and 126i respectively, thereby connecting the third outlet-side passage 107 to the first inlet-side passage 102. The second outlet-side passage 105 is connected to the fourth inlet-side passage 108 by connecting the second outlet 105a (outlet O2) and the fourth inlet 108a (inlet I4) to the hollow passage section 126l and the hollow passage section 125l respectively, and the fourth outlet-side passage 109 is connected to the second inlet-side passage 104 by connecting the fourth outlet 109a (outlet O4) and the second inlet 104a (inlet I2) to the hollow passage section 125k and the hollow passage section 125j respectively.

[0308] Therefore, the first heat medium passage Fp1 and the third heat medium passage Fp3 are connected in series to form a closed loop, and the second heat medium passage Fp2 and the fourth heat medium passage Fp4 are connected in series to form a closed loop, with cooling water circulating in each closed loop.

[0309] At the fourth switching position, such as Figure 35 As shown, set action modes 10 to 13.

[0310] In operating mode 10, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is opened, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is opened, and the compressor 18 is turned on. The first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 functions as a liquid-cooled condenser, releasing heat from the refrigerant to the cooling water. The second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 functions as a cooler to cool the cooling water, and the radiator 16 releases the heat to the outside, thereby cooling the battery 1 and the heat-generating components (rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13, etc.).

[0311] In operation mode 11, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is closed, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is opened, and the compressor 18 is turned on, so that the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 functions as a cooler to cool the cooling water, and the heat is released to the outside by the radiator 16, thereby cooling the battery 1 and the heat-generating parts (rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13, etc.).

[0312] In operation mode 12, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is opened, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is closed, and the compressor 18 is turned on, so that the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 functions as a liquid-cooled condenser, releasing heat from the refrigerant to the cooling water, and using the radiator 16 to release the heat to the outside, thereby cooling the heat-generating parts (rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13, etc.).

[0313] In operation mode 13, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is turned off, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is turned off, the compressor 18 is turned off, and the heat is released to the outside by the radiator 16, thereby cooling the heat-generating parts (rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13, etc.).

[0314] When the multi-way switching valve 120 is in the mixing switching position, i.e., the fifth switching position, which mixes cooling water with different state variables (temperature in this case), such as Figure 31 and Figure 32As shown, the first outlet-side passage 103 is connected to the third inlet-side passage 106 by connecting the first outlet 103a (outlet O1) and the third inlet 106a (inlet I3) to the hollow passage portion 126f and the hollow passage portion 126g respectively, thereby connecting the first outlet-side passage 103 to the third inlet-side passage 106. The third outlet 107a (outlet O3) is connected to the first inlet 102a (inlet I1) and the second inlet 104a (inlet I2) to the hollow passage portion 125e, the hollow passage portion 126e, and the hollow passage portion 125f respectively, thereby connecting the third outlet-side passage 107 to the first inlet-side passage 102 and the second inlet-side passage 104. The second outlet-side passage 105 is connected to the first inlet-side passage 102 and the second inlet-side passage 104 by connecting the second outlet 105a (outlet O2) to the first inlet 102a (inlet I1) and the second inlet 104a (inlet I2) to the hollow passage section 126h, the hollow passage section 126e, and the hollow passage section 125f respectively. The fourth inlet-side passage 108 and the fourth outlet-side passage 109 are closed by connecting the fourth inlet 108a (inlet I4) and the fourth outlet 109a (outlet O4) to the hollow passage section 125h and the hollow passage section 125g respectively.

[0315] Therefore, the first heat medium passage Fp1 and the third heat medium passage Fp3 are connected in series to form a closed loop passage, and the first heat medium passage Fp1, the third heat medium passage Fp3, and the second heat medium passage Fp2 are connected in series to form a closed loop passage, and the second heat medium passage Fp2 becomes a closed loop passage circulating in itself, with cooling water circulating in each closed loop passage.

[0316] At the fifth switching position, such as Figure 35 As shown, set action mode 14 and action mode 15.

[0317] In operating mode 14, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is opened, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is opened, and the compressor 18 is turned on. The first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 functions as a liquid-cooled condenser, releasing heat from the refrigerant to the cooling water, while the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 functions as a cooler to cool the cooling water and moderately heats (slightly heats) the battery 1. In this way, by appropriately heating and cooling the cooling water, the temperature of the battery 1 can be prevented from becoming unstable, thereby maintaining the battery 1 at a suitable management temperature.

[0318] In operating mode 15, the electric heating element 3 is turned off, the on / off valve 195 of the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is turned off, the expansion valve 205 of the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is turned off, the compressor 18 is turned off, and the cooling water is heated by the heat recovered from the heating parts (rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13, etc.), and the battery 1 is moderately heated (micro-heated).

[0319] Thus, for example, the heat generated by the electric heating element 3 can be suppressed, and the cooling water in the first heat medium passage Fp1 can be adjusted to the most suitable temperature by utilizing the heat emitted from the heating components (converter 5, inverter 6, inverter 11, rear drive motor 8, front drive motor 13) (heat dissipation), thereby heating (micro-heating) the battery 1 to a suitable temperature.

[0320] Figure 33 This represents a simulation result comparing the duration of temperature stabilization (i.e., the time it takes for the temperature of the battery 1 of the present invention to be maintained within a specified range centered on the target temperature) with the battery 1's management temperature (target arrival temperature) set to 30°C. (As per...) Figure 33 It is understood that, compared with the prior art, the present invention can maintain the target temperature range for a longer period of time, thereby achieving temperature stabilization of the battery 1.

[0321] If the heat output of the heating element 3 is increased, the time it takes for the battery 1 to reach its optimal temperature will be shorter. However, this will cause overshoot exceeding the allowable upper temperature limit, increasing the frequency of switching to cooling mode and raising concerns about increased control complexity and instability of the battery 1. Therefore, by mixing and flowing cooling water with different state variables (temperatures), the cooling water can be adjusted to the optimal temperature for the battery 1, avoiding overshoot as before, reducing the switching frequency, and maintaining the battery 1 at a stable temperature.

[0322] As described above, the multi-way switching valve 120 appropriately switches from the first switching position to the fifth switching position, such as... Figure 34 As shown, when the position of the abutment portion 127 (shown by the solid line) rotates in one direction (clockwise CW) corresponding to the first switching position, it passes through the second, third, and fourth switching positions and reaches the position of the abutment portion 127 (shown by the double-dotted line), which is the fifth switching position. Thus, the multi-way switching valve 120 rotates clockwise (CW) or counterclockwise (CCW) with the stop member 101f as the boundary, and the angular position is detected by the Hall IC 156 and positioned at the desired switching position.

[0323] As described above, the multi-way switching valve device of the present invention includes: a base member 100 defining a first inlet 102a and a first outlet 103a of a first fluid passage, a second inlet 104a and a second outlet 105a of a second fluid passage, a third inlet 106a and a third outlet 107a of a third fluid passage, and a fourth inlet 108a and a fourth outlet 109a of a fourth fluid passage; and a multi-way switching valve 120 rotatably disposed on the base member 100 and performing switching operations at multiple switching positions to open / close the first inlet 102a to the fourth inlet 108a and the first outlet 103a to the fourth outlet 109a. The multi-way switching valve 120, in a mixed switching position included in the multiple switching positions, allows fluid flowing out of the first outlet 103a to flow into the first inlet 102a and the second inlet 104a, and allows fluid flowing out of the second outlet 105a to flow into the second inlet 104a and the first inlet 102a.

[0324] Accordingly, in the first fluid passage, the fluid flowing therein can be circulated and introduced into the fluid flowing in the second fluid passage to form a mixed flow, and in the second fluid passage, the fluid flowing therein can be circulated and introduced into the fluid flowing in the first fluid passage to form a mixed flow. Therefore, when the state variables (e.g., temperature) of each fluid are different, they can be adjusted to a suitable temperature respectively.

[0325] In addition, when the multi-way switching valve 120 is in the mixed switching position, it connects the first outlet 103a to the third inlet 106a, connects the third outlet 107a to the first inlet 102a and the second inlet 104a, connects the second outlet 105a to the first inlet 102a and the second inlet 104a, and closes the fourth inlet 108a and the fourth outlet 109a.

[0326] Accordingly, fluid flowing out of the first fluid passage can be returned to the first fluid passage via the third fluid passage, and can also flow into the second fluid passage; conversely, fluid flowing out of the second fluid passage can be returned to the second fluid passage, and can also flow into the first fluid passage. Therefore, when fluid flowing in the third fluid passage is heated or cooled from the outside, fluid in the corresponding state can be guided to the first and second fluid passages.

[0327] In addition, the multiple switching positions include a first switching position, a second switching position, a third switching position, a fourth switching position, and a fifth switching position that are switched sequentially during the rotation of the multi-way switching valve 120 in one direction. The fifth switching position is a mixed switching position.

[0328] Accordingly, by rotating the multi-way switching valve 120 in one direction, the switching action can be performed from the first switching position to the fifth switching position; conversely, by rotating it in the other direction, the switching action can be performed from the fifth switching position to the first switching position.

[0329] In addition, in the first switching position, the multi-way switching valve 120 connects the first outlet 103a to the first inlet 102a, connects the third outlet 107a to the second inlet 104a, connects the second outlet 105a to the third inlet 106a, and closes the fourth inlet 108a and the fourth outlet 109a.

[0330] Accordingly, the first fluid passage can be formed into a closed loop, and the second and third fluid passages can be connected in series to form a closed loop, allowing the fluid to circulate in each closed loop.

[0331] In addition, in the second switching position, the multi-way switching valve 120 connects the first outlet 103a to the second inlet 104a, the third outlet 107a to the first inlet 102a, the second outlet 105a to the third inlet 106a, and the fourth inlet 108a to the fourth outlet 109a. In the third switching position, the first outlet 103a is connected to the second inlet 104a, the third outlet 107a to the first inlet 102a, the second outlet 105a to the fourth inlet 108a, and the fourth outlet 109a to the third inlet 106a. In the fourth switching position, the first outlet 103a is connected to the third inlet 106a, the third outlet 107a to the first inlet 102a, the second outlet 105a to the fourth inlet 108a, and the fourth outlet 109a to the second inlet 104a.

[0332] Accordingly, the first fluid passage, the second fluid passage, and the third fluid passage can be connected in series to form a closed loop passage, and the fluid can circulate in the closed loop passage. On the other hand, the fourth fluid passage can be formed into a closed loop passage.

[0333] Additionally, the base member 100 includes a cylindrical recess 101 that rotatably accommodates the multi-way switching valve 120 about a predetermined axis S. The cylindrical recess 101 includes a first inner circumferential surface 101a1 and a second inner circumferential surface 101a2 divided in the direction of the axis S, four openings O3, I2, O4, and I4 arranged circumferentially on the first inner circumferential surface 101a1, and four openings I1, O1, I3, and O4 arranged circumferentially on the second inner circumferential surface 101a2. 2. The multi-way switching valve 120 is rotatably disposed in the cylindrical recess 101 and is cylindrical in shape, and includes 15 hollow passage portions 125a to 125o arranged and opened on the first outer peripheral surface 120a1 corresponding to the first inner peripheral surface 101a1, and 15 hollow passage portions 126a to 126o arranged and opened on the second outer peripheral surface 120a2 corresponding to the second inner peripheral surface 101a2, so as to form an operating state from the first switching position to the fifth switching position.

[0334] Therefore, instead of using multiple switching valves, a single multi-way switching valve 120 is used, which achieves miniaturization and provides the function of performing five switching actions from the first switching position to the fifth switching position.

[0335] In addition, the four openings O3, I2, O4, I4 arranged on the first inner circumferential surface 101a1 correspond to the third outlet 107a, the second inlet 104a, the fourth outlet 109a, and the fourth inlet 108a, respectively, and the four openings I1, O1, I3, O2 arranged on the second inner circumferential surface 101a2 correspond to the first inlet 102a, the first outlet 103a, the third inlet 106a, and the second outlet 105a.

[0336] Accordingly, by arranging multiple openings in a two-level structure on the inner circumferential surface 101a of the cylindrical recess 101, a first fluid passage to a fourth fluid passage can be arranged accordingly, thereby achieving the thinning, miniaturization, and reduction of the number of parts of the base component 100.

[0337] Additionally, the multi-way switching valve 120 includes: a longitudinal groove passage portion Vg, which connects the hollow passage portion 125e of the first outer peripheral surface 120a1 arranged in the direction of the axis S with the hollow passage portion 126e of the second outer peripheral surface 120a2, so as to connect the third outlet 107a with the first inlet 102a and the second inlet 104a and connect the second outlet 105a with the first inlet 102a and the second inlet 104a; and the hollow passage portion 125f of the first outer peripheral surface 120a1 and the hollow passage portion 126h of the second outer peripheral surface 120a2 formed for communication with the longitudinal groove passage portion Vg.

[0338] Accordingly, in a multi-way switching valve 120, the function of mixing fluids flowing in multiple passages and allowing them to flow downstream in the form of a mixed flow can be achieved.

[0339] In addition, the multi-way switching valve 120 includes: a rotating shaft 121 centered on the axis S, a first hollow portion 122 and a second hollow portion 123 formed by hollowing out both sides of the rotating shaft 121 in the direction of the axis S, and a connecting hole 124a that connects the first hollow portion 122 and the second hollow portion 123.

[0340] Accordingly, in the case of molding the multi-way switching valve 120, weight reduction can be achieved, and by providing the connecting hole 124a, it can be used as an exhaust hole for discharging air mixed in with the fluid.

[0341] In addition, the first fluid passage is a first heat medium passage Fp1 for heat exchange with the battery 1, the second fluid passage is a second heat medium passage Fp2 for heat exchange with the drive motor 8 and drive motor 13 that drive the wheels, the third fluid passage is a third heat medium passage Fp3 for heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant passage Rp, and the fourth fluid passage is a fourth heat medium passage Fp4 for heat exchange with the outside air via the radiator 16.

[0342] Accordingly, the temperature of the heat medium (cooling water) can be appropriately adjusted to a suitable temperature through the first heat medium passage Fp1, the second heat medium passage Fp2, the third heat medium passage Fp3, and the fourth heat medium passage Fp4.

[0343] Additionally, the base member 100 includes: a first inlet side passage 102 and a first outlet side passage 103 forming part of a first heat medium passage Fp1, a second inlet side passage 104 and a second outlet side passage 105 forming part of a second heat medium passage Fp2, a third inlet side passage 106 and a third outlet side passage 107 forming part of a third heat medium passage Fp3, and a fourth inlet side passage 108 and a fourth outlet side passage 109 forming part of a fourth heat medium passage Fp4.

[0344] Accordingly, by providing a passage in the base member 100 that constitutes part of the first heat medium passage Fp1 to the fourth heat medium passage Fp4 included in the temperature control system, simplification of the system and reduction of the number of parts can be achieved.

[0345] Additionally, a first electric pump (water pump 160) for pressurizing the heat medium is provided in the first inlet side passage 102 of the base member 100.

[0346] Accordingly, the heat medium can be forcibly pumped in the first inlet side passage 102.

[0347] Additionally, a second electric pump (water pump 170) for pressurizing the heat medium is provided in the second inlet side passage 104 of the base member 100.

[0348] Accordingly, the heat medium can be forcibly pumped in the second inlet side passage 104.

[0349] Additionally, a storage tank 180 through which the heating medium passes is disposed in the second outlet side passage 105 of the base member 100.

[0350] Therefore, the internal pressure of the second heat medium passage Fp2, which varies according to the temperature change of the heat medium (cooling water), can be adjusted, and damage to parts caused by overpressure can be prevented.

[0351] Additionally, on the base member 100, a first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 is disposed on the downstream side of the second outlet side passage 105, which enables heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat medium.

[0352] Accordingly, heat exchange can be performed between the heat medium flowing in the second outlet side passage 105 and the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant passage Rp via the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190. For example, the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 can function as a liquid-cooled condenser to heat the heat medium.

[0353] In addition, the first refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 190 includes a heat exchange section 192, an intermediate passage 193 that forms part of the second heat medium passage Fp2, and a first refrigerant passage 194 that forms part of the refrigerant passage Rp. An on / off valve 195 is disposed on the upstream side of the first refrigerant passage 194.

[0354] Accordingly, the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat medium can be appropriately adjusted by the opening and closing action of the on / off valve 195.

[0355] Additionally, a second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 is disposed on the base member 100 between the third inlet side passage 106 and the third outlet side passage 107 to facilitate heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat medium.

[0356] Accordingly, heat exchange can be performed between the heat medium flowing in the third heat medium passage (third inlet side passage 106 and third outlet side passage 107) and the refrigerant flowing in the refrigerant passage Rp via the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200, for example, the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 can function as a cooler to cool the heat medium.

[0357] In addition, the second refrigerant-heat medium heat exchanger 200 includes a heat exchange section 202, an intermediate passage 203 connecting the third inlet side passage 106 and the third outlet side passage 107, and a second refrigerant passage 204 forming part of the refrigerant passage Rp, with an expansion valve 205 disposed on the upstream side of the second refrigerant passage 204.

[0358] Therefore, the heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat medium can be appropriately adjusted by opening and closing the expansion valve 205.

[0359] In the described embodiment, a multi-way switching valve device is shown for adjusting the flow of a hot medium (cooling water) as the target fluid, but it is not limited to this and can also be used to adjust the flow of other fluids.

[0360] In the embodiment described, the mixing switching position (fifth switching position) of the multi-way switching valve 120 is shown as passing through the third fluid passage (third heat medium passage Fp3), but it is not limited to this. It is also possible to adopt a configuration that includes the following mixing switching position: directly returning the fluid flowing out of the first outlet of the first fluid passage to the first inlet of the first fluid passage and guiding it to the second inlet of the second fluid passage to mix the fluid, and returning the fluid flowing out of the second outlet of the second fluid passage to the second inlet of the second fluid passage and guiding it to the first inlet of the first fluid passage to mix the fluid.

[0361] In the embodiment described, a structure in which a first electric pump (water pump 160) is arranged in the first inlet side passage 102 of the first heat medium passage Fp1 is shown, but it is not limited to this. As long as the passage and structure generate natural circulation due to the temperature gradient of the heat medium, it may be in a form that does not employ a first electric pump.

[0362] In the embodiment described, a structure in which a second electric pump (water pump 170) is arranged in the second inlet side passage 104 of the second heat medium passage Fp2 is shown. However, it is not limited to this. As long as the passage and structure generate natural circulation due to the temperature gradient of the heat medium, it may be in a form that does not employ a second electric pump.

[0363] As described above, the multi-way switching valve device of the present invention can mix fluids with different state quantities (e.g., temperature), achieving miniaturization, system simplification, and reduction of the number of parts. Therefore, it can be applied to electric vehicles and other applications, and can also be effectively used in systems or other equipment in other fields.

Claims

1. A multi-port switching valve device, characterized in that, include: The base component defines the first inlet and first outlet of the first fluid passage, the second inlet and second outlet of the second fluid passage, the third inlet and third outlet of the third fluid passage, and the fourth inlet and fourth outlet of the fourth fluid passage. as well as A multi-way switching valve is rotatably disposed on the base member and performs switching actions in multiple switching positions to open / close the first inlet to the fourth inlet and the first outlet to the fourth outlet. The multi-way switching valve, in the mixed switching position included in the plurality of switching positions, allows fluid flowing out of the first outlet to flow into the first inlet and the second inlet, and allows fluid flowing out of the second outlet to flow into the second inlet and the first inlet.

2. The multi-way switching valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the mixed switching position, the multi-port switching valve connects the first outlet to the third inlet, connects the third outlet to the first inlet and the second inlet, connects the second outlet to the first inlet and the second inlet, and closes the fourth inlet and the fourth outlet.

3. The multi-way switching valve device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The multiple switching positions include a first switching position, a second switching position, a third switching position, a fourth switching position, and a fifth switching position that are switched sequentially during the rotation of the multi-way switching valve in one direction. The fifth switching position is the hybrid switching position.

4. The multi-way switching valve device according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the first switching position, the multi-way switching valve connects the first outlet to the first inlet, the third outlet to the second inlet, the second outlet to the third inlet, and closes the fourth inlet and the fourth outlet.

5. The multi-way switching valve device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The multi-port switching valve At the second switching position, the first outlet is connected to the second inlet, the third outlet is connected to the first inlet, the second outlet is connected to the third inlet, and the fourth inlet is connected to the fourth outlet. At the third switching position, the first outlet is connected to the second inlet, the third outlet is connected to the first inlet, the second outlet is connected to the fourth inlet, and the fourth outlet is connected to the third inlet. At the fourth switching position, the first outlet is connected to the third inlet, the third outlet is connected to the first inlet, the second outlet is connected to the fourth inlet, and the fourth outlet is connected to the second inlet.

6. The multi-way switching valve device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The base member includes a cylindrical recess that rotatably accommodates the multi-way switching valve about a predetermined axis. The cylindrical recess includes a first inner circumferential surface and a second inner circumferential surface divided along the axis, four openings arranged circumferentially on the first inner circumferential surface, and four openings arranged circumferentially on the second inner circumferential surface. The multi-way switching valve is rotatably disposed in the cylindrical recess about the axis and is cylindrical in shape. It includes 15 hollow passages arranged and opened on the first outer peripheral surface corresponding to the first inner peripheral surface, and 15 hollow passages arranged and opened on the second outer peripheral surface corresponding to the second inner peripheral surface, so as to form an operating state from the first switching position to the fifth switching position.

7. The multi-way switching valve device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The four openings arranged on the first inner circumferential surface correspond to the third outlet, the second inlet, the fourth outlet, and the fourth inlet. The four openings arranged on the second inner circumferential surface correspond to the first inlet, the first outlet, the third inlet, and the second outlet.

8. The multi-way switching valve device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The multi-port switching valve includes: a longitudinal groove passage portion that connects a perforated passage portion on the first outer peripheral surface arranged in the direction of the axis with a perforated passage portion on the second outer peripheral surface, so as to connect the third outlet to the first inlet and the second inlet and connect the second outlet to the first inlet and the second inlet; and a perforated passage portion on the first outer peripheral surface and a perforated passage portion on the second outer peripheral surface formed for communication with the longitudinal groove passage portion.

9. The multi-way switching valve device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The multi-way switching valve includes: a rotating shaft centered on the axis; a first hollow portion and a second hollow portion formed by hollowing out the rotating shaft from both sides in the direction of the axis; and a connecting hole for communicating between the first hollow portion and the second hollow portion.

10. The multi-way switching valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The first fluid passage is a passage for the flow of the heat medium that exchanges heat with the battery. The second fluid passage is a passage for the flow of a heat medium that exchanges heat with the drive motor that drives the wheels. The third fluid passage is a third heat medium passage for heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant passage. The fourth fluid passage is a fourth heat medium passage for the flow of heat medium that exchanges heat with the outside air via the radiator.

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