Multi-way valve

Abstract

A multi-way valve adapted to control fluid flow to different thermal fluid circuits includes a valve housing, a valve flow controller, and a sealing system. A valve flow controller is disposed in the valve housing to control flow through the valve housing. A sealing system is configured to seal between the valve housing and the valve flow controller.

Description

[0001] Priority claim

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 443,029, filed on February 2, 2023, the disclosure of which is now expressly incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The utility model relates to a multi-way valve, in particular to a multi-way valve for controlling heating and / or the flow of fluid to various thermal fluid circuits in a vehicle. More specifically, the utility model relates to an electromechanical multi-way valve. Background Art

[0004] Multi-way valves are used to control fluid flow to various thermal fluid circuits in a vehicle. However, there is a need for multi-way valves with an increased number of possible flow paths and improved sealing. Utility Model Content

[0005] To this end, the present disclosure provides a multi-way valve that controls the flow of heating and / or cooling fluid to different thermal fluid circuits in a vehicle and has improved sealing. The multi-way valve may include a valve housing and a valve flow controller located in the housing to control the flow of fluid through the valve housing. The flow of the heating and / or cooling fluid may be controlled to direct the fluid to different thermal fluid circuits in the vehicle.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present application, the valve housing may include a valve housing body coupled to a manifold of a hot fluid circuit and a housing end cap. The valve housing body may be formed to define a valve cavity and a plurality of holes leading to the valve cavity. The housing end cap may be coupled to a second end of the valve housing to close a second end opening leading to the valve cavity.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present application, a valve flow controller may include a valve rotor disposed in a valve cavity of a valve housing body. The valve rotors may each be configured to rotate relative to the valve housing body about a valve axis. When the valve rotors rotate about the valve axis, the valve rotors may cooperate with the valve housing to define a plurality of flow paths in the valve housing, thereby controlling the flow of a fluid through the valve housing.

[0008] With the multi-way valve of the present disclosure, a multi-way valve with an increased number of flow paths and improved sealing is provided. The valve rotor provides an increased number of flow paths while the seal is coupled to rotate with the valve rotor. This arrangement not only improves the seal between the holes in the valve housing body because the flow paths are less complex, but the sealing system also uses less material for the seal and reduces friction on the first valve rotor.

[0009] Other features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the illustrative embodiments illustrating the best mode of carrying out the disclosure as presently recognized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS Reference is made specifically to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective schematic diagram of a multi-way valve configured to control fluid flow to various thermal fluid circuits in a vehicle;

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded view of the multi-way valve;

[0013] Figure 3 is similar to Figure 2 , showing a portion of the valve housing disassembled;

[0014] Figure 4 is included in Figure 3 An exploded view of a valve housing and a valve flow controller in a multi-way valve;

[0015] Figure 5 is included in Figure 3 An exploded view of a valve rotor in a valve flow controller of a multi-way valve and a seal included in a sealing system;

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve;

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve;

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 Detailed view of

[0019] Fig. 9 It is shown Figure 1 A table showing different modes of the multi-way valve and different flow paths generated in each of the different modes AF;

[0020] Fig.9A yes Fig. 9 A top view of the multi-way valve in mode A shown, wherein the valve rotor is in the valve rotor first position;

[0021] Fig. 9B yes Fig. 9 A top view of the multi-way valve of mode B is shown, wherein the valve rotor is in the valve rotor second position;

[0022] Fig. 9C yes Fig. 9 A top view of the multi-way valve in mode C shown, wherein the valve rotor is in the valve rotor valve third position or first throttling configuration;

[0023] Fig.9Dyes Fig. 9 A top view of the multi-way valve in mode D is shown, wherein the valve rotor is in the valve rotor fourth position;

[0024] Fig.9E yes Fig. 9 A top view of the multi-way valve in mode E is shown, wherein the valve rotor is in the valve rotor fifth position;

[0025] Fig.9F yes Fig. 9 A top view of the multi-way valve in mode F is shown, wherein the valve rotor is in the valve rotor sixth position or second throttling configuration;

[0026] Fig.10 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of a multi-way valve;

[0027] Fig.11 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of another embodiment of a multi-way valve;

[0028] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 Exploded view of the multi-way valve;

[0029] Fig.13 yes Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve;

[0030] Fig.14 yes Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve; and

[0031] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 Detailed view of the . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Figure 1 1 is an exemplary multi-way valve 10 configured to control fluid flow to various thermal fluid circuits in a vehicle. The multi-way valve 10 includes a valve housing 12, a valve flow controller 14, and a sealing system 16. The valve flow controller 14 is disposed in the valve housing 12 to control flow through the valve housing 12. The sealing system 16 is configured to seal between the valve housing 12 and the valve flow controller 14.

[0033] The valve flow controller 14 includes a valve rotor 30 and an actuator 29 disposed in a valve cavity 26 formed by the valve housing 12. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The valve rotor 30 is configured to rotate relative to the valve housing 12 about the valve axis 19. The actuator 29 is coupled to the valve rotor 30 to drive the valve rotor 30 to rotate.

[0034] like 9A to 9FAs shown, the valve rotor 30 cooperates with the valve housing 12 to define a plurality of flow paths through the valve housing 12. 9A to 9F At different setting positions shown, the valve rotor 30 forms different flow paths to control the flow of fluid through the valve housing 12 to different hot fluid circuits.

[0035] Fig. 9 1 and 2. Different modes of the multi-way valve 10 are shown in FIG. The valve rotor 30 is in a different predetermined position in each of the different modes A to F to form a different flow path through the valve housing 12. The multi-way valve 10 and / or the actuator 29 may include a control unit pre-programmed with the different modes A to F.

[0036] The arrangement and shape of the valve rotor 30 in the valve housing 12 reduces the overall size of the multi-way valve 10 and improves the seal between the valve rotor 30 and the valve housing 12 compared to other multi-way valves. Other multi-way valves may have more complex passages through the valve housing, which complicates the seal and increases the pressure drop because the fluid must make more turns / change directions more. The complex passages may increase the likelihood of leakage through the different passages. These valves may include seals to seal between the passages, but adding seals may require the actuator to have increased torque capabilities to overcome the friction of the seals between the different components.

[0037] Additionally, adding more seals increases the overall manufacturing cost of the multi-way valve. Some valves may use Teflon material for the seals. This may make the multi-way valve expensive to manufacture, especially since other valves have complex passages that have large and complex seals that may require large amounts of Teflon material.

[0038] The multi-way valve 10 of the present disclosure includes a single valve rotor 30 that cooperates with the valve housing 12 to form multiple flow paths. The arrangement of the valve rotor 30 reduces the amount of sealing material and improves sealing. In addition, the arrangement of the valve rotor 30 reduces the contact surface area of ​​the seal 60, thereby reducing friction on the valve rotor 30.

[0039] Turning to the valve housing 12 again, the valve housing includes a valve housing body 20, a housing cover 22, and a valve housing body 21. Figures 2 to 4 The valve housing body 20 is formed to include a valve cavity 26 and a plurality of holes 28A to 28E leading to the valve cavity 26. The housing cover 22 is coupled to the upper end of the valve housing body 20 to close the top opening 26O leading to the valve cavity 26. The valve housing body 20 includes a base 20B and a drum 20D extending axially away from the base 20B.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve housing 12 also includes a manifold gasket 17, such as Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5The manifold gasket 17 is axially located between the manifold and the valve housing body 20 .

[0041] The valve housing body 20 is also formed to include a plurality of openings 28A to 28E that lead to the valve chamber 26, such as Figures 2 to 8 The plurality of holes 28A to 28E include a first hole 28A, a second hole 28B, a third hole 28C, a fourth hole 28D and a fifth hole 28E. Figures 2 to 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the second bore 28B extends around the valve housing body 20 at the valve axis 19. The other bores 28A, 28C, 28D, 28E are spaced apart around the valve axis 19. In the illustrated embodiment, the first bore 28A, the third bore 28C, the fourth bore 28D, and the fifth bore 28E are spaced apart 45 degrees around the valve axis 19.

[0042] The valve flow controller 14 includes a valve rotor 30. The valve rotor 30 is disposed in the valve cavity 26 of the valve housing body 20. The valve rotor 30 is configured to rotate relative to the valve housing body 20 about the valve axis 19.

[0043] The valve rotor 30 cooperates with the valve housing 12 to define a plurality of flow paths through the valve housing body 20. When the valve rotor 30 rotates about the valve axis 19 to different set positions, the valve rotor 30 forms different flow paths to control the flow of fluid through the housing bores 28A to 28E of the valve housing body 20.

[0044] The valve rotor 30 is formed to define a first chamber 32 and a second chamber 34, as shown in FIG. Figures 5 to 8 As shown. The first chamber 32 is not in fluid communication with the second chamber 34. The valve rotor 30 controls flow to each aperture 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D, 28E by aligning the first chamber 32 and the second chamber 34 with different apertures 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D, 28E at different predetermined positions. This controls which apertures 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D, 28E are in fluid communication with each other.

[0045] The valve rotor 30 includes a valve rotor body 36 and a valve rotor shaft 38. Figures 3 to 8 The valve rotor body 36 defines the first chamber 32 and the second chamber 34. The valve rotor shaft 38 extends axially from the valve rotor body 36 along the valve axis 19 and is coupled to the actuator 29. The valve rotor body 36 is along the valve axis 19.

[0046] The valve rotor body 36 includes a valve rotor plate 42, a first diverter member 44 and a second diverter member 46, as shown in FIG. Figures 2 to 7As shown. The valve rotor plate 42 extends circumferentially around the valve axis 19. The first diverter member 44 extends axially away from the valve rotor plate 42 and defines a first chamber 32, which extends around at least two holes 28A to 28E, which are included in the plurality of holes 28A to 28E and open to the valve cavity 26. The second diverter member 46 extends axially away from the valve rotor plate 42 and defines a second chamber 34 separated from the first chamber 32, which extends around at least two different holes 28A to 28E included in the plurality of holes 28A to 28E and open to the valve cavity 26.

[0047] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first diverter member 44 includes a diverter wall 48 and an end wall 50. The diverter wall 48 extends axially away from the valve rotor plate 42 around at least two holes 28A to 28E included in the plurality of holes 28A to 28E leading to the valve cavity 26. The end wall 50 closes the diverter wall 48 to define the first chamber 32.

[0048] The second diverter member 46 includes a diverter wall 52 and an end wall 54. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diverter wall 52 extends axially away from the valve rotor plate 42 around at least two holes 28A to 28E included in the plurality of holes 28A to 28E leading to the valve cavity 26. The end wall 54 closes the diverter wall 52 to define the second chamber 34.

[0049] As the valve rotor body 36 rotates, the valve rotor body 36 controls flow to each of the holes 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D, 28E included in the valve housing body 20, such as 9A to 9E The valve rotor body 36 controls flow to each of the apertures 28A, 28B, 28D, 28E by aligning the chambers 32, 34 with the apertures 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D, 28E at different predetermined positions.

[0050] In some positions, a portion of the valve rotor plate 42 covers one of the holes 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D, 28E to block fluid flow through the hole. The valve rotor plate 42 has a dead center without chambers 32, 34. Thus, when the valve rotor 30 is in a particular predetermined position, the valve rotor plate 42 blocks flow through one of the holes 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D, 28E.

[0051] Fig. 9 The different modes of the multi-way valve 10 are shown in FIG. The first mode or mode A is Fig.9A The second mode or mode B is shown in Fig. 9B The third mode or mode C is shown in Fig. 9C The fourth mode or mode D is shown in Fig.9D The fifth mode or mode E is shown in Fig.9E Shown in.

[0052] In mode A, the valve rotor 30 is in the valve rotor first position, such as Fig.9A As shown. In the first position of the valve rotor, the valve rotor body 36 connects the first hole 28A to the second hole 28B, connects the third hole 28C to the fifth hole 28E, and covers the fourth hole 28D to form a first flow path. The first chamber 32 surrounds the first hole 28A and the second hole 28B, so that the first hole 28A and the second hole 28B are in fluid communication. The second chamber 34 surrounds the third hole 28C and the fifth hole 28E, so that the third hole 28C and the fifth hole 28E are in fluid communication. The fourth hole 28D is isolated from the other holes 28A, 28B, 28C, and 28E.

[0053] In mode B, the valve rotor 30 is in the Fig. 9B The valve rotor is in the second position shown. In the valve rotor second position, the valve rotor body 36 connects the first hole 28A to the second hole 28B, connects the third hole 28C to the fourth hole 28D, and covers the fifth hole 28E to form a second flow path. The first chamber 32 continues to surround the first hole 28A and the second hole 28B, so that the first hole 28A and the second hole 28B are in fluid communication. The second chamber 34 surrounds the third hole 28C and the fourth hole 28D, so that the third hole 28C and the fourth hole 28D are in fluid communication. The fifth hole 28E is isolated from the other holes 28A, 28B, 28C, and 28D.

[0054] In mode C, the valve rotor 30 is in the valve rotor third position or the first throttling configuration, such as Fig. 9C As shown. In the first throttling configuration, the valve rotor body 36 connects the first hole 28A to the second hole 28B and connects the third hole 28C to the fourth hole 28D and the fifth hole 28E to form a third flow path. The first chamber 32 continues to surround the first hole 28A and the second hole 28B, so that the first hole 28A and the second hole 28B are in fluid communication. However, the second chamber 34 surrounds the third hole 28C and the fourth hole 28D and the fifth hole 28E, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9C shown.

[0055] When the valve rotor 30 is in the Fig. 9CIn the first throttling configuration shown, the valve rotor plate 42 partially covers the fourth hole 28D and the fifth hole 28E and completely surrounds the third hole 28C. In the first throttling configuration, the valve rotor 30 can be rotated about the valve axis 19 to change or throttle the flow through the fourth hole 28D and the fifth hole 28E. By rotating the valve rotor 30 about the valve axis 19 in a first direction (i.e., counterclockwise), the valve rotor plate 42 can cover more of the fourth hole 28D to reduce the flow to / from the fourth hole 28D, while the second chamber 34 surrounds more of the fifth hole 28E to increase the flow to / from the fifth hole 28E. Conversely, by rotating the valve rotor 30 about the valve axis 19 in a second direction (i.e., clockwise) opposite to the first direction, the second chamber 34 surrounds more of the fourth hole 28D to increase the flow to / from the fourth hole 28D, while more of the fifth hole 28E can be covered by the valve rotor plate 42 to reduce the flow to / from the fifth hole 28E.

[0056] From the first throttle configuration, the valve rotor 30 can be rotated about the valve axis 19 to one of the valve rotor first position or the valve rotor second position. If the valve rotor 30 is rotated in a first direction from the first throttle configuration, the valve rotor 30 returns to the valve rotor first position, i.e., mode A. If the valve rotor 30 is rotated in a second direction from the first throttle configuration, the valve rotor 30 returns to the valve rotor second position, i.e., mode B.

[0057] In mode D, the valve rotor 30 is in the Fig.9D . In the fourth position of the valve rotor, the valve rotor body 36 connects the first hole 28A to the fifth hole 28E, connects the third hole 28C to the second hole 28B, and covers the fourth hole 28D to form a fourth flow path. The second chamber 34 surrounds the first hole 28A and the fifth hole 28E, so that the first hole 28A and the fifth hole 28E are in fluid communication. The first chamber 32 surrounds the third hole 28C and the second hole 28B, so that the third hole 28C and the second hole 28B are in fluid communication. The fourth hole 28D is isolated from the other holes 28A, 28B, 28C, and 28E.

[0058] In mode E, the valve rotor 30 is in the valve rotor fifth position, such as Fig.9E As shown. In the fifth position of the valve rotor, the valve rotor body 36 connects the first hole 28A to the fourth hole 28D, connects the third hole 28C to the second hole 28B, and covers the fifth hole 28E to form a fifth flow path. The second chamber 34 surrounds the first hole 28A and the fourth hole 28D, so that the first hole 28A and the fourth hole 28D are in fluid communication. The first chamber 32 continues to surround the third hole 28C and the second hole 28B, so that the third hole 28C and the second hole 28B are in fluid communication. The fifth hole 28E is isolated from the other holes 28A, 28B, 28C, and 28D.

[0059] In mode F, the valve rotor 30 is in the valve rotor sixth position or second throttling configuration, such as Fig.9F As shown. In the second throttling configuration, the valve rotor body 36 connects the third hole 28C to the second hole 28B, and connects the first hole 28A to the fourth hole 28D and the fifth hole 28E to form a sixth flow path. The first chamber 32 continues to surround the third hole 28C and the second hole 28B, so that the third hole 28C and the second hole 28B are in fluid communication. However, as Fig.9F As shown, the second chamber 34 surrounds the first aperture 28A and portions of the fourth aperture 28D and the fifth aperture 28E.

[0060] When the valve rotor 30 is in the Fig.9E In the second throttling configuration shown, the valve rotor plate 42 partially covers the fourth hole 28D and the fifth hole 28E and completely surrounds the first hole 28A. In the second throttling configuration, the valve rotor 30 can be rotated about the valve axis 19 to change or throttle the flow through the fourth hole 28D and the fifth hole 28E. By rotating the valve rotor 30 about the valve axis 19 in one direction, the valve rotor plate 42 can cover more of the fourth hole 28D to reduce the flow to / from the fourth hole 28D, while the second chamber 34 surrounds more of the fifth hole 28E to increase the flow to / from the fifth hole 28E. Conversely, by rotating the valve rotor 30 in the opposite direction about the valve axis 19, the second chamber 34 surrounds more of the fourth hole 28D to increase the flow to / from the fourth hole 28D, while more of the fifth hole 28E can be covered by the valve rotor plate 42 to reduce the flow to / from the fifth hole 28E.

[0061] From the second throttle configuration, the valve rotor 30 can be rotated about the valve axis 19 to one of the valve rotor fourth position or the valve rotor fifth position. If the valve rotor 30 is rotated in the first direction from the second throttle configuration, the valve rotor 30 returns to the valve rotor fifth position, i.e., mode E. If the valve rotor 30 is rotated in the second direction from the second throttle configuration, the valve rotor 30 returns to the valve rotor fourth position, i.e., mode D.

[0062] Each of the multi-way valve 10 and / or the actuator 29 may include a control unit configured to direct the actuator 29 to move the valve rotor 30 to a different predetermined position in each of the different modes A to E. Based on the position of the vehicle requiring fluid, the control unit will direct the actuator 29 to move the valve rotor 30 to one of the positions of the desired mode.

[0063] The sealing system 16 includes a seal 60 and a biasing assembly 62, such as Figures 2 to 8As shown. The seal 60 is coupled to the valve rotor 30 to rotate with the valve rotor between different predetermined positions. The biasing assembly 62 is configured to selectively exert an axial force F on the valve rotor 30 to push the valve rotor 30 and the seal 60 toward the valve housing body 20 when the valve rotor 30 is in one of a plurality of different predetermined positions, thereby increasing the seal between the valve rotor 30 and the valve housing body 20.

[0064] The biasing assembly 62 is configured to selectively apply an axial force F on the valve rotor 30 when the valve rotor 30 is in one of the different predetermined positions in each of the modes A to E to push the valve rotor 30 and the seal 60 toward the bottom surface 20S of the valve housing body 20, thereby improving the seal between the valve rotor 30 and the valve housing body 20. The biasing assembly 274 selectively applies the axial force F to increase the friction between the seal 60 on the valve rotor 30 and the valve housing body 20 at different predetermined positions, but removes at least a portion of the axial force F when the valve rotor 30 rotates to reduce the friction between the seal 60 on the valve rotor 30 and the valve housing body 20. In this way, the torque required to rotate the valve rotor 30 is reduced, and the wear on the seal 60 is reduced.

[0065] In other multi-way seals, a large amount of Teflon material may be used to seal the different channels, which can make the multi-way valve expensive to manufacture. Therefore, by reducing the amount of friction on the seal 60 during the rotation of the valve rotor 30, the wear on the seal 60 is reduced. This also reduces the need to replace the seal 60 and reduces the cost of repairing the multi-way valve 10. In addition, the amount of Teflon material used is significantly reduced compared to other multi-way valves.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the seal 60 comprises a Teflon material. In other embodiments, the seal may be made of other suitable materials.

[0067] The biasing assembly 62 includes a biasing spring 64 and a spring cover 66, as shown in FIG. Figures 3 to 8 As shown. The bias spring 64 is disposed around the valve rotor shaft 38 of the valve rotor 30. The bias spring 64 is configured to apply at least a portion of the axial force F to the valve rotor 30 to push the seal 60 fixed to the valve rotor 30 toward the bottom surface 20S of the valve housing body 20. The spring cover 66 extends around the bias spring 64 and is coupled to the valve rotor 30 to rotate with the valve rotor. In this way, the bias spring 64 is located between the spring cover 66 and the valve rotor 30, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown.

[0068] In some embodiments, the bias spring 64 is configured to apply an axial force F to the valve rotor 30 to push the seal 60 fixed to the valve rotor 30 toward the bottom surface 20S of the valve housing body 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the bias spring 64 applies a portion of the axial force F to the valve rotor 30, that is, applies a baseline force to the valve rotor 30 to provide at least some sealing between the valve rotor 30 and the valve housing body 20. The bias assembly 62 also includes cam devices 68, 70 to increase the amount of axial force F applied to the valve rotor 30 at different predetermined positions. The cam device 68 can be used in combination with the bias spring 64 or in place of the bias spring 64 to apply the axial force F to the valve rotor.

[0069] The cam device 68 includes a cam ramp 70 formed on the axially facing surface 22S of the housing cover 22 of the valve housing 12 and a cam surface 72 on the spring cover 66. The cam surface 72 is configured to engage the cam ramp 70 on the housing cover 22 when the valve rotor 30 rotates about the valve axis 19 to the plurality of different predetermined positions.

[0070] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the cam surface 72 is formed on the axially facing surface of the spring cover 66. The cam surface 72 can be raised at approximately 90 degree intervals around the valve axis 19. Each of the holes 28A, 28C, 28D, 28E is circumferentially spaced at 90 degree intervals around the valve axis 19, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 In this way, an axial force F will be applied at different predetermined locations in order to seal around the corresponding holes.

[0071] The cam ramps 70 on the housing cover 22 are each circumferentially aligned with one of the holes 28A, 28C, 28D, 28E formed in the valve housing body 20 of the valve housing 12. In this manner, the raised portion of the cam surface 72 engages one of the cam ramps 70 in each of the different predetermined positions to apply an axial force F to the valve rotor 30. Then, when the first valve rotor 30 rotates about the valve axis 19, the raised portion of the cam surface 72 disengages from the cam ramp 70, so that at least a portion of the axial force F is removed and the torque required to rotate the valve rotor 30 is reduced.

[0072] The cam ramp 70 is fixed to the housing cover 22. The cam surface 72 on the spring cover 66 abuts the cam ramp 70 in a circular manner and, when aligned with the high point of the cam surface 72, applies a downward axial force F to the valve rotor 30. This force F generates a contact pressure between the seal 60 and the bottom surface 20S of the valve housing body 20. The increased contact pressure and the resulting increase in friction are only generated at predetermined positions of the different modes A to F. This reduces friction and torque on the actuator during movement between sealing points.

[0073] The seal 60 of the sealing system 16 includes an outer ring 76 and a separator member 78, such as Figures 3 to 5 The outer ring 76 extends circumferentially around the valve axis 19 at the outer edge 38E of the valve housing body 20 . The separator member 78 extends between opposite sides of the outer ring 76 .

[0074] exist Figures 11 to 15 Another embodiment of the multi-way valve 210 according to the present invention is shown in FIG. The multi-way valve 210 is substantially similar to Figures 1 to 10 The multi-way valve 10 shown and described herein. Therefore, similar reference numbers in the 200 series represent features that are common between the multi-way valve 10 and the multi-way valve 210. Except where there is a conflict with the specific description and drawings of the multi-way valve 210, the description of the multi-way valve 10 is incorporated by reference to apply to the multi-way valve 210.

[0075] The multi-way valve 210 includes a valve housing 212, a valve flow controller 214, and a sealing system 216. The valve flow controller 214 is disposed in the valve housing 212 to control flow through the valve housing 212. The sealing system 216 is configured to seal between the valve housing 212 and the valve flow controller 214.

[0076] In an illustrative embodiment, Figures 1 to 10 The spring cover 266 included in the sealing system 216 has a different shape than the spring cover 66 in the embodiment of FIG. Figures 1 to 10 Compared to the spring cover 66 in the embodiment of FIG. 2 , the spring cover 266 is coupled to the valve rotor 230 .

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the strength of the spring 64, 264 can be varied depending on the baseline force to be applied to the valve rotor 30, 230. For example, if a greater baseline force is desired, the spring 64, 264 can have a greater spring constant. However, if a lesser baseline force is desired, the spring 64, 264 can have a lower spring constant. Depending on the spring 64, 264 selected, the spring cap 66, 266 can be changed to accommodate the size of the spring 64, 264. This allows different springs to be used without changing different components of the valve 10 and limits the amount of redesign required.

[0078] The valve housing 212 includes a valve housing body 220 and a housing cover 222. Fig.11 and Fig.12 The valve housing body 220 is formed to include a valve cavity 226 and a plurality of holes 228A to 228E leading to the valve cavity 226. The housing cover 222 is coupled to the upper end of the valve housing body 220.

[0079] The valve housing body 220 is also formed to include a plurality of holes 228A to 228E that open into the valve cavity 226, such as Fig.13 and Fig.14 The plurality of holes 228A to 228E include a first hole 228A, a second hole 228B, a third hole 228C, a fourth hole 228D, and a fifth hole 228E.

[0080] The valve flow controller 214 includes a valve rotor 230. The valve rotor 230 is disposed in the valve cavity 226 of the valve housing body 220. The valve rotor 230 is configured to rotate relative to the valve housing body 220 about the valve axis 19.

[0081] The valve rotor 230 cooperates with the valve housing 212 to define a plurality of flow paths through the valve housing body 220. When the valve rotor 230 rotates about the valve axis 19 to different set positions, the valve rotor 230 forms different flow paths to control the flow of fluid through the housing holes 228A to 228E of the valve housing body 220.

[0082] like Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown, the valve rotor 230 is formed to define a first chamber 232 and a second chamber 234. The first chamber 232 is not in fluid communication with the second chamber 234.

[0083] The valve rotor 230 includes a valve rotor body 236 and a valve rotor shaft 238. Figure 12 to Figure 14 The valve rotor body 236 defines a first chamber 232 and a second chamber 234. The valve rotor shaft 238 extends axially from the valve rotor body 236 along the valve axis 19 and is coupled to the actuator 229. The valve rotor body 236 is along the valve axis 19.

[0084] The valve rotor body 36 includes a valve rotor plate 242, a first diverter member 244 and a second diverter member 246, as shown in FIG. Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown. The valve rotor plate 242 extends circumferentially around the valve axis 19. The first diverter member 244 extends axially from the valve rotor plate 242 to the end wall 250 and defines a first chamber 232, which extends around at least two holes 228A to 228E included in the plurality of holes 228A to 228E, and the at least two holes 228A to 228E open to the valve cavity 226. The second diverter member 246 extends axially from the valve rotor plate 242 to the end wall 254 and defines a second chamber 234 separated from the first chamber 232, the first chamber 232 extending around at least two different holes 228A to 228E included in the plurality of holes 228A to 228E, and the at least two different holes 228A to 228E open to the valve cavity 226.

[0085] The sealing system 216 includes a seal 260 and a biasing assembly 262, such as Figure 12 to Figure 14As shown. The seal 260 is coupled to the valve rotor 230 to rotate with the valve rotor between different predetermined positions. The biasing assembly 262 is configured to selectively apply an axial force F on the valve rotor 230 to push the valve rotor 230 and the seal 260 toward the valve housing body 220 when the valve rotor 230 is in one of a plurality of different predetermined positions, thereby increasing the seal between the valve rotor 230 and the valve housing body 220.

[0086] The biasing assembly 262 includes a biasing spring 264 and a spring cover 266. Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown. The bias spring 264 is disposed around the valve rotor shaft 238 of the valve rotor 230. The bias spring 264 is configured to apply at least a portion of the axial force F to the valve rotor 230 to push the seal 260 fixed to the valve rotor 230 toward the bottom surface of the valve housing body 220. The spring cover 266 extends around the bias spring 264 and is coupled to the valve rotor 230 to rotate with the valve rotor. In this way, the bias spring 264 is located between the spring cover 266 and the valve rotor 30.

[0087] The biasing assembly 262 also includes a camming device 268 to increase the amount of axial force F applied to the valve rotor 230 at different predetermined positions. The camming device 268 may be used in conjunction with or in place of the biasing spring 264 to apply the axial force F to the valve rotor.

[0088] like Fig.15 As shown, the cam device 268 includes a cam ramp 270 formed on an axially facing surface of the housing cover 22 of the valve housing 12 and a cam surface 272 on the spring cover 266. The cam surface 272 is configured to engage the cam ramp 270 on the housing cover 222 when the valve rotor 230 rotates about the valve axis 19 to a plurality of different predetermined positions.

Claims

1. A multi-way valve, comprising: a valve housing coupled to a manifold of a thermal fluid circuit, the valve housing comprising a valve housing body and a housing end cap coupled to the valve housing body, the valve housing body being shaped to define a valve cavity and a plurality of holes leading to the valve cavity, and the housing end cap being coupled to the valve housing to close a top opening leading to the valve cavity; A valve flow controller, comprising: a valve rotor disposed in the valve cavity of the valve housing body and configured to rotate relative to the valve housing body about a valve axis; and an actuator coupled to the valve rotor to drive the valve rotor to rotate about the valve axis, wherein when the valve rotor rotates about the valve axis to a plurality of different predetermined positions, the valve rotor cooperates with the valve housing to define a plurality of flow paths, thereby controlling the flow of a fluid through the valve housing; and a sealing system configured to seal between the valve rotor and the valve housing in the valve cavity, the sealing system comprising: a sealing member coupled to the valve rotor to rotate therewith and axially disposed between the valve rotor and a bottom surface of the valve housing; and a biasing assembly configured to selectively apply an axial force on the valve rotor when the valve rotor is in one of the plurality of different predetermined positions to urge the valve rotor toward the plurality of holes formed in the valve housing body, thereby increasing the seal between the valve rotor and the valve housing, Characterized in that the plurality of holes formed in the valve housing body include a central hole extending axially through the valve housing body at the valve axis and four outer holes spaced circumferentially around the valve axis around the central hole.

2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that: The biasing assembly includes a biasing spring and a spring cover, wherein the biasing spring is arranged around the valve rotor axis of the valve rotor and is configured to apply at least a portion of the axial force on the valve rotor to push the valve rotor toward the multiple holes formed in the valve housing body, and the spring cover extends around the biasing spring and is connected to the valve rotor.

3. The multi-way valve according to claim 2, characterized in that: The biasing assembly also includes: a cam ramp on an axially facing surface of a housing cover of the valve housing; and a cam surface on a spring cover, the cam surface on the spring cover being configured to engage the cam ramp on the housing cover when the valve rotor rotates about the valve axis to the multiple different predetermined positions.

4. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that: The biasing assembly includes: a cam ramp on an axially facing surface of a housing cover of the valve housing; and a cam surface on the valve rotor, the cam surface on the valve rotor being configured to engage the cam ramp on the housing cover when the valve rotor rotates about the valve axis to the multiple different predetermined positions.

5. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The sealing element comprises Teflon material.

6. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The valve rotor includes a valve rotor body extending circumferentially around the valve axis and a valve rotor shaft extending axially from the valve rotor body through a housing cover of the valve housing and coupled to the actuator.

7. The multi-way valve according to claim 6, characterized in that: The valve rotor body is formed to define a first chamber and a second chamber, wherein the first chamber extends around at least two holes included in the plurality of holes and leading to the valve cavity, and the second chamber is separated from the first chamber and extends around at least two different holes included in the plurality of holes and leading to the valve cavity.

8. The multi-way valve according to claim 6, characterized in that: The valve rotor body includes: a valve rotor plate extending circumferentially around the valve axis; a first diverter member extending axially away from the valve rotor plate and defining a first chamber, the first chamber extending around at least two holes included in the plurality of holes and leading to the valve cavity; and a second diverter member extending axially away from the valve rotor plate and defining a second chamber separated from the first chamber, the second chamber extending around at least two different holes included in the plurality of holes and leading to the valve cavity.

9. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The seal of the sealing system includes an outer ring extending circumferentially around the valve axis at an outer edge of the valve housing body and a separator member extending between opposite sides of the outer ring.

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