Multi-way valve, thermal management system and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a multi-way valve, a heat management system and a vehicle, and relates to the technical field of vehicles. The multi-way valve comprises a shell and a rotary valve element. A cavity is defined in the shell, valve ports communicating with the cavity are formed in the shell, and the valve ports comprise the first valve port and the multiple second valve ports; the rotary valve element is rotatably arranged in the cavity, the rotary valve element is matched with the inner wall of the cavity to define a first communicating area and a second communicating area which are separated from each other, and the first communicating area communicates with the first valve port; when the rotary valve element rotates, the first communication area selectively communicates with one of the second valve ports, and the second communication area communicates with at least two of the other second valve ports. According to the embodiment of the utility model, the multi-way valve is more in adjustable state and wide in application range.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of vehicles, and in particular to a multi-way valve, a thermal management system and a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] In the design of a vehicle's thermal management system, two main parts are usually involved: the electric drive circuit and the battery circuit. In order to effectively manage the flow of cooling media in these circuits, valves are usually used for regulation. In some existing technologies, a three-way valve is equipped in the electric drive circuit, and a three-way valve or a four-way valve is installed in the battery circuit. Through the coordinated work of these two valves, the electric drive circuit and the battery circuit are effectively connected. This design allows the heat generated by the motor circuit to be directed to the battery's cooling circuit, so that the waste heat can be used to heat the battery in a low-temperature environment, thereby improving the efficiency and overall performance of the battery. However, the disadvantage of adopting this configuration is that it will lead to increased system cost, increased weight, and a more complex control system.

[0003] Therefore, there is room for improvement in the valves in the thermal management system. Utility Model Content

[0004] The utility model aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the first aspect of the utility model aims to provide a multi-way valve, which has a plurality of adjustable states and a wide range of applications.

[0005] A second aspect of the present invention aims to provide a thermal management system.

[0006] A third aspect of the present invention aims to provide a vehicle.

[0007] According to the multi-way valve of the first embodiment of the utility model, it includes a housing and a rotating valve core. A chamber is defined in the housing, and a valve port connected to the chamber is provided on the housing, and the valve port includes a first valve port and a plurality of second valve ports; the rotating valve core is rotatably arranged in the chamber, and the rotating valve core cooperates with the inner wall of the chamber to define a first communication area and a second communication area separated from each other, and the first communication area is connected to the first valve port; when the rotating valve core rotates, the first communication area can be selectively connected to one of the second valve ports, and the second communication area is connected to at least two of the remaining second valve ports.

[0008] According to the multi-way valve of the first embodiment of the utility model, by setting a rotating valve core, the multi-way valve has different working modes, selectively connects different fluid channels, and meets the diverse fluid path requirements. By setting a mutually independent first connecting area and a second connecting area, when the first connecting area is connected to a second valve port, the other second valve ports can still maintain a connected state through the second connecting area, thereby achieving effective management of the fluid. By rotatably setting the rotating valve core in the chamber of the shell, the overall structure of the multi-way valve is compact, the space occupied is small, and the integration and reliability of the multi-way valve are improved.

[0009] According to the multi-way valve of some embodiments of the utility model, the rotating valve core includes a partition portion for separating the first connecting area and the second connecting area; the rotating valve core has at least two switchable gears during rotation, and the numbers of the second valve ports connected to the second connecting area are different in at least two of the gears, and the partition portion blocks at least one of the second valve ports in at least one of the gears.

[0010] In some embodiments, the rotary valve core rotates around the rotation axis, and the partition portion includes: a center connecting plate, which surrounds the outside of the rotation axis, and the first valve port is connected to the area surrounded by the center connecting plate; a valve flap, the valve flap includes a connecting end adjacent to the rotation axis and a stop end away from the rotation axis, the connecting end is connected to the center connecting plate, and the stop end is used to block the second valve port in at least one of the gears, and the valve flap is two and connected at both ends of the center connecting plate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the direction of the valve flap from the connecting end to the stop end is radial, the dimension of the valve flap in a direction perpendicular to the radial direction and the extension direction of the rotation axis is the width of the valve flap, and the width of the valve flap gradually increases from the connecting end to the stop end.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first valve port is disposed on the rotation axis of the rotary valve core, and a plurality of the second valve ports are arranged on the same circumferential surface with the rotation axis as the center.

[0013] In some embodiments, there are five second valve ports, four of which are evenly spaced around the rotation axis, and the remaining second valve port is disposed between two of the second valve ports.

[0014] In some embodiments, the rotary valve core also includes: an upper top plate, the partition portion is arranged on one side of the upper top plate; a rotating shaft is arranged on the other side of the upper top plate; the multi-way valve also includes a driving member, the output end of the driving member is connected to the rotating shaft to drive the rotary valve core to rotate.

[0015] The thermal management system according to the embodiment of the second aspect of the utility model comprises the multi-way valve described in the embodiment of the first aspect of the present application.

[0016] In some embodiments, the thermal management system is used for a vehicle and includes: a multi-way valve, which is the multi-way valve mentioned above; a battery heat exchange system, which includes a first flow path and a battery heat exchanger arranged on the first flow path, one end of the first flow path is connected to the first valve port and the other end is connected to the second valve port; an electric drive cooling system, which includes a second flow path and a cooler arranged on the second flow path, and the two ends of the second flow path are connected to another two second valve ports; the multi-way valve has at least two switchable states, in one state the first flow path and the second flow path are connected in series through the multi-way valve, and in the other state the first flow path and the second flow path are separated.

[0017] The vehicle according to the embodiment of the third aspect of the utility model includes the thermal management system described in the embodiment of the second aspect of the application.

[0018] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be given in part in the following description, and in part will become apparent from the following description, or will be learned through the practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and easily understood from the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of a thermal management system in the prior art;

[0021] Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram of a multi-way valve according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0022] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotary valve core according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0024] Figure 5 A top view of a multi-way valve according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic structural diagram of the multi-way valve in the first state according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path structure of the thermal management system (the multi-way valve is in the first state) of an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 8This is a schematic structural diagram of the multi-way valve in the second state according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Fig. 9 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path structure of the thermal management system (the multi-way valve is in the second state) of an embodiment of the present application;

[0029] Fig.10 This is a schematic structural diagram of the multi-way valve in the third state according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0030] Fig.11 This is a schematic diagram of the flow path structure of the thermal management system (the multi-way valve is in the third state) of an embodiment of the present application;

[0031] Fig.12 This is a schematic structural diagram of the multi-way valve in the fourth state according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0032] Fig.13 Schematic diagram of the flow path structure of the thermal management system (the multi-way valve is in the fourth state) of an embodiment of the present application.

[0033] Reference numerals:

[0034] Thermal management system 500a, battery circuit 1a, electric drive circuit 2a, three-way valve 3a, four-way valve 4a of the prior art;

[0035] Multi-way valve 100;

[0036] The housing 10, the chamber 11, the valve port 12, the first valve port 121, the second valve port 122, the first communication area 13, and the second communication area 14;

[0037] Rotating valve core 20, partition 21, central connecting plate 210, valve flap 211, connecting end 2111, stop end 2112, upper top plate 22, rotating shaft 23;

[0038] Branch 30, first branch 31, second branch 32, third branch 33, fourth branch 34, fifth branch 35, sixth branch 36;

[0039] A driving member 40;

[0040] Thermal management system 500;

[0041] Battery heat exchange system 1, battery heat exchanger 101, electric drive cooling system 2, cooler 201, electric drive assembly 202, expansion tank 301;

[0042] A first flow path 501 , a second flow path 502 , a third flow path 503 , and a bypass flow path 504 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, and examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0044] In the description of the present utility model, it is necessary to understand that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like indicate positions or positional relationships based on the positions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present utility model and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present utility model. In addition, features defined as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. In the description of the present utility model, unless otherwise specified, "multiple" means two or more.

[0045] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installation", "connection" and "connection" should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection, or it can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal communication of two components. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0046] As described in the background technology, Figure 1 In the vehicle thermal management system 500a, the control of the cooling medium flow direction of the electric drive circuit 2a and the battery circuit 1a is the key to ensure the stable operation of the system. In the traditional solution, a three-way valve 3a or a four-way valve 4a needs to be installed in the electric drive circuit 2a and the battery circuit 1a respectively. Although it can achieve effective heat transfer, it brings problems such as high system cost, heavy weight and complex control.

[0047] To solve this problem, refer to Figure 2-Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Fig.10 , Fig.12 , describing a multi-way valve 100 according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the utility model.

[0048] It is worth noting that the multi-way valve 100 according to the embodiment of the utility model is not limited to any application field, and can be applied in the vehicle field, the industrial field, etc.

[0049] In the following description of the present application, the application of the multi-way valve 100 in the vehicle field is taken as an example for explanation. After reading the following description, those skilled in the art can easily understand the implementation scheme of the multi-way valve 100 in other fields.

[0050] According to the multi-way valve 100 of the first embodiment of the utility model, Figure 1-Figure 2 As shown, the valve body comprises a housing 10 and a rotary valve core 20 .

[0051] First, a chamber 11 is defined inside the housing 10 , and the chamber 11 is a main passage for fluid flow. On the housing 10 , a plurality of valve ports 12 are connected to the chamber 11 , and the valve ports 12 include a first valve port 121 and a plurality of second valve ports 122 .

[0052] The rotary valve core 20 is the core component of the multi-way valve 100, and is configured to be rotatably disposed in the chamber 11. The rotary valve core 20 is tightly matched with the inner wall of the chamber 11, and together defines two mutually separated communication areas: a first communication area 13 and a second communication area 14. The first communication area 13 is directly connected to the first valve port 121, so that the fluid can smoothly enter or leave the first communication area 13 through the first valve port 121.

[0053] As the rotary valve core 20 rotates, the first communication area 13 can be selectively connected to one of the second valve ports 122. This means that by controlling the rotation angle of the rotary valve core 20, the user can accurately control which second valve port 122 the fluid flows from the first valve port 121 to, or which second valve port 122 the fluid flows from to the first valve port 121.

[0054] At the same time, the second communication area 14 can maintain communication with at least two of the remaining second valve ports 122. In this way, even when the first communication area 13 is connected to a specific second valve port 122, the other second valve ports 122 can still maintain communication with the chamber 11 through the second communication area 14, thereby ensuring the continuity and efficiency of the fluids in different flow paths.

[0055] In summary, according to the multi-way valve 100 of the first aspect of the utility model, the rotation of the rotary valve core 20 and the design of the connecting area realize the flexible switching and efficient circulation of the fluid between different valve ports 12, and the multi-way valve 100 has many adjustable states and a wide range of applications.

[0056] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the multi-way valve 100 is combined with Figure 6The rotary valve core 20 includes a partition 21 for separating the first communication area 13 and the second communication area 14. The rotary valve core 20 has at least two switchable gears during rotation, and the number of second valve ports 122 connected to the second communication area 14 is different in at least two gears, and the partition 21 blocks at least one second valve port 122 in at least one gear.

[0057] By providing the partition 21, it is ensured that the fluids between the two connecting areas will not interfere with each other, and accurate control of the fluid flow is achieved. In addition, the multi-way valve 100 can also achieve the connection and blocking functions of multiple different flow paths. This feature reduces the number of multi-way valves 100 required in the thermal management system 500, thereby simplifying the system structure, reducing costs, and improving the reliability of the overall system.

[0058] The rotary valve core 20 has at least two switchable gears during the rotation process. In each gear, the second communication area 14 is connected to a different number of second valve ports 122, and the partition 21 may be blocked at some of the second valve ports 122. By adjusting the rotary valve core 20 to different gears, the user can selectively connect different numbers of second valve ports 122 according to actual needs to meet the needs of different flow rates or flow directions.

[0059] For example, combined with Figure 6 , Figure 8 In this gear position, the second communication area 14 can communicate with three second valve ports 122, while the partition 21 blocks another second valve port 122. This design allows fluid to flow between the three selected second valve ports 122, while the blocked second valve port 122 is completely closed, ensuring that the fluid does not flow into the channel.

[0060] For example, combining Fig.10 , in this gear position, the second communication area 14 can communicate with four second valve ports 122. However, at this time, the design of the partition 21 makes it block at least part of two of the second valve ports 122. This partial blocking design reduces the flow of the two second valve ports 122, thereby reducing the impact of the multi-way valve 100 on the two flow paths after switching. This design is particularly suitable for scenarios where the flow of certain flow paths needs to be gradually reduced or adjusted.

[0061] For example, combining Fig.12 In this position, the second communication area 14 can only communicate with two second valve ports 122. At this time, the partition 21 can completely block the other two second valve ports 122 to ensure that the fluid does not flow into the two blocked channels. This design is suitable for situations where only two specific flow paths need to be opened.

[0062] In summary, the multi-way valve 100 can realize a variety of fluid control strategies to meet the needs of different application scenarios. Whether it is necessary to accurately control the flow, adjust the flow path or completely close a channel, the multi-way valve 100 can provide a flexible solution.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the rotary valve core 20 rotates around the rotation axis, and the partition 21 includes: a central connecting plate 210 and a valve flap 211 .

[0064] The central connecting plate 210 surrounds the outer side of the rotation axis, and the first valve port 121 is connected to the area surrounded by the central connecting plate 210 .

[0065] The central connecting plate 210 is an arc-shaped plate. When the arc-shaped plate rotates with the rotation axis as the center, the area enclosed by the arc-shaped plate always maintains a communication state with the first valve port 121, forming a first communication area 13. No matter which position the rotary valve core 20 rotates to, the first valve port 121 can be covered by the arc-shaped area enclosed by the central connecting plate 210, ensuring that the fluid is always unobstructed between the first valve port 121 and the first communication area 13.

[0066] The valve flap 211 includes a connecting end 2111 close to the rotation axis and a stop end 2112 away from the rotation axis. The connecting end 2111 is connected to the central connecting plate 210. The stop end 2112 is used to block the second valve port 122 in at least one gear position. There are two valve flaps 211 connected to both ends of the central connecting plate 210.

[0067] The valve flap 211 is used to block or open the second valve port 122 when the rotary valve core 20 is in different rotation positions. In this embodiment, the valve flap 211 is composed of two main parts: a connecting end 2111 close to the rotation axis and a stop end 2112 away from the rotation axis.

[0068] The connecting end 2111 is directly connected to the central connecting plate 210, which ensures the stability and synchronization of the valve flap 211 and the central connecting plate 210. When the rotary valve core 20 rotates around the rotation axis, the valve flap 211 rotates with the central connecting plate 210 to achieve the opening and closing control of the fluid channel.

[0069] The stop end 2112 is a key part of the valve flap 211, which is responsible for blocking the second valve port 122 in at least one gear. Specifically, when the rotary valve core 20 rotates to a certain position, the stop end 2112 will accurately align with and block one or more second valve ports 122, thereby preventing fluid from flowing out of or in from these valve ports 12.

[0070] Optionally, the valve flap 211 and the central connecting plate 210 can be processed and formed at one time. This one-piece processing method ensures that the connection between the valve flap 211 and the central connecting plate 210 is stable and seamless, thereby improving the overall strength and sealing performance of the rotary valve core 20.

[0071] Of course, the present invention is not limited thereto. In some cases, in order to meet specific design requirements or production conditions, a step-by-step processing method may also be used. Specifically, the center connecting plate 210 may be processed first, and then the valve flap 211 may be processed on the basis of the center connecting plate 210. This processing method may require two or more processing steps, but it can also ensure that the connection between the valve flap 211 and the center connecting plate 210 is firm and reliable.

[0072] Regardless of the processing sequence, the key is to ensure that after the rotary valve core 20 is processed as a whole, the valve flap 211 and the center connecting plate 210 form an integrated structure. This integrated structure not only ensures the strength and sealing performance of the rotary valve core 20, but also enables the entire valve core to maintain a stable fluid control effect during the rotation process.

[0073] In some embodiments, the direction of the valve flap 211 from the connecting end 2111 to the stop end 2112 is radial, and the dimension of the valve flap 211 in a direction perpendicular to the radial direction and the extension direction of the rotation axis is the width of the valve flap 211. From the connecting end 2111 to the stop end 2112, the width of the valve flap 211 gradually increases.

[0074] Then the valve flap 211 is extended in the direction radiating outward from the rotation axis. In the direction from the connection end 2111 to the stop end 2112, the width of the valve flap 211 gradually increases. This design allows the valve flap 211 to have a narrower width at a position close to the rotation axis. It will not be too close to or interfere with the first valve port 121, thereby ensuring that the fluid flow of the first valve port 121 will not be obstructed. This design ensures that even during the rotation of the valve flap 211, the first valve port 121 can remain unobstructed, achieving smooth flow of the fluid in the first communication area 13.

[0075] The position away from the rotation axis has a wider width. This gradually widening design enables the stop end 2112 to have a sufficient width to completely cover the opening of the second valve port 122, thereby ensuring that when the rotary valve core 20 rotates to a specific position, one or more second valve ports 122 can be accurately blocked to prevent fluid from flowing out of or in from these valve ports 12.

[0076] In some embodiments, Figure 5 As shown, the first valve port 121 is disposed on the rotation axis of the rotary valve core 20, and the plurality of second valve ports 122 are arranged on the same circumferential surface with the rotation axis as the center.

[0077] First, the first valve port 121 is arranged on the rotation axis of the rotary valve core 20. This design allows the fluid to flow in or out directly along the direction of the rotation axis, simplifies the fluid path, and improves the efficiency and stability of the fluid flow.

[0078] At the same time, the plurality of second valve ports 122 are arranged on the same circumferential surface with the rotation axis as the center. This circumferential layout ensures that the distances between the second valve ports 122 and the rotation axis are equal, so that the fluid pressures between the valve ports 12 are balanced. This balanced pressure distribution helps to reduce the flow resistance of the fluid between the valve ports 12, thereby improving the flow efficiency of the fluid.

[0079] In addition, by arranging the plurality of second valve ports 122 on the same circumferential surface, the rotary valve core 20 can simultaneously control the opening and closing of a plurality of fluid channels during the rotation process. When the rotary valve core 20 rotates to a certain specific position, the stop end 2112 can simultaneously block one or more second valve ports 122, thereby achieving simultaneous control of a plurality of fluid channels. This improves the flexibility and adaptability of the multi-way valve 100, enabling it to meet various complex fluid control requirements.

[0080] Optionally, the housing 10 is in the shape of a cylinder. The second valve port 122 is formed on the side wall of the cylinder along the circumferential direction. The cylindrical housing 10 design can make the overall structure of the multi-way valve 100 more compact and easy to install. At the same time, the geometric characteristics of the cylinder enable the housing 10 to evenly distribute the pressure when subjected to fluid pressure from all directions, thereby avoiding stress concentration. This allows the multi-way valve 100 to maintain stable performance under high-pressure working conditions, thereby ensuring the accuracy and reliability of fluid control.

[0081] In some specific embodiments, Figure 5 As shown, a plurality of branches 30 communicating with the chamber 11 are formed on the shell 10 , and the plurality of branches 30 include a first branch 31 , a second branch 32 , a third branch 33 , a fourth branch 34 , a fifth branch 35 and a sixth branch 36 .

[0082] The first branch 31 is connected to the first valve port 121, and the second branch 32, the third branch 33, the fourth branch 34, the fifth branch 35 and the sixth branch 36 are connected to a second valve port 122 respectively. Figure 3, the first branch 31 is extended along the rotation axis, and the second branch 32, the third branch 33, the fourth branch 34, the fifth branch 35 and the sixth branch 36 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the housing 10. The third branch 33 and the fourth branch 34 extend along the same radial direction of the housing 10; the second branch 32 and the fifth branch 35 extend along the same radial direction of the housing 10; the extension line of the third branch 33 and the fourth branch 34 is perpendicular to the extension line of the second branch 32 and the fifth branch 35; the sixth branch 36 is arranged between the third branch 33 and the fifth branch 35.

[0083] In some embodiments, Figure 4 As shown, the rotary valve core 20 further includes: an upper top plate 22 and a rotating shaft 23. The partition 21 is arranged on one side of the upper top plate 22; the rotating shaft 23 is arranged on the other side of the upper top plate 22. The multi-way valve 100 further includes a driving member 40, and the output end of the driving member 40 is connected to the rotating shaft 23 to drive the rotary valve core 20 to rotate.

[0084] The rotating shaft 23 is a key component for the rotary valve core 20 to rotate. It is connected to the driving member 40, so that the rotary valve core 20 can rotate around the rotation axis under the action of an external force. By adjusting the rotation angle of the rotary valve core 20, the relative position of the partition 21 and each valve port 12 can be controlled, thereby controlling the flow direction and flow rate of the fluid.

[0085] In this way, the partition 21 and the rotating shaft 23 are respectively arranged on both sides of the upper top plate 22, which not only ensures the compactness of the structure of the rotary valve core 20, but also facilitates installation and maintenance. At the same time, this layout also ensures that the partition 21 and the rotating shaft 23 can work together to achieve precise fluid control.

[0086] Optionally, the driving method of the driving member 40 includes but is not limited to: motor drive, pneumatic drive or hydraulic drive, etc. In the present application, the driving member 40 can adopt a known solution in the prior art. The driving member 40 itself is not the core point of the present application solution, so it will not be repeated here.

[0087] Optionally, a sealing rubber ring is provided between the driving member 40 and the rotary valve core 20 .

[0088] In some embodiments, the driving member 40 is connected to the housing 10 by welding or screwing. Optionally, a sealing rubber ring is provided between the driving member 40 and the housing 10.

[0089] Under the drive of the driving member 40, the multi-way valve 100 is in one of the following four states to meet different thermal management requirements:

[0090] like Figure 6 As shown, in the first state, the fifth branch 35 is connected with the fourth branch 34 and the sixth branch 36, the first branch 31 is connected with the second branch 32, and the third branch 33 is closed;

[0091] like Figure 8 As shown, in the second state, the fifth branch 35 is connected with the third branch 33 and the sixth branch 36, the first branch 31 is connected with the second branch 32, and the fourth branch 34 is closed;

[0092] like Fig.10 As shown, in the third state, the fifth branch 35 is connected to the third branch 33, the fourth branch 34 and the sixth branch 36, the first branch 31 is connected to the second branch 32, and at the same time, the valve ports 12 of the third branch 33 and the fourth branch 34 are adjusted to a smaller state, so that the fluid flow of these two branches is restricted.

[0093] like Fig.12 As shown, in the fourth state, the fifth branch 35 is connected to the first branch 31, the third branch 33 is connected to the second branch 32, and the fourth branch 34 and the sixth branch 36 are closed.

[0094] like Figure 6-Figure 13 FIG. 2 shows a thermal management system 500 according to an embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention. The thermal management system 500 is used in a vehicle.

[0095] In order to solve the problems of the background technology, the thermal management system 500 of some embodiments of the utility model includes the multi-way valve 100 of the first aspect of the utility model. This multi-way valve 100 enables the system to achieve accurate distribution of the cooling medium between the electric drive circuit and the battery circuit by flexibly adjusting the gear position of the valve according to different thermal management requirements. In this way, not only the structure of the thermal management system 500 is simplified and the cost is reduced, but also the control efficiency of the thermal management system 500 is improved. At the same time, since a multi-way valve 100 integrates the functions of a three-way valve and a four-way valve at the same time, the weight of the thermal management system 500 is also reduced, achieving the lightweight effect of the vehicle.

[0096] like Figure 7 , Fig. 9 , Fig.11 , Fig.13 As shown, the thermal management system 500 also includes a battery heat exchange system 1 and an electric drive cooling system 2. The battery heat exchange system 1 includes a first flow path 501 and a battery heat exchanger 101 disposed on the first flow path 501. One end of the first flow path 501 is connected to a first valve port 121 and the other end is connected to a second valve port 122. The electric drive cooling system 2 includes a second flow path 502 and a cooler 201 disposed on the second flow path 502. Both ends of the second flow path 502 are connected to two other second valve ports 122. The multi-way valve 100 has at least two switchable states, in which the first flow path 501 and the second flow path 502 are connected in series through the multi-way valve 100 in one state, and the first flow path 501 and the second flow path 502 are separated in another state.

[0097] The battery heat exchange system 1 is composed of a first flow path 501 and a battery heat exchanger 101 disposed on the first flow path 501 to ensure that the temperature of the battery is properly regulated. One end of the first flow path 501 is connected to a first valve port 121 of the multi-way valve 100, and the other end is connected to a second valve port 122 of the multi-way valve 100.

[0098] The electric drive cooling system 2 includes a second flow path 502 and a cooler 201 disposed on the second flow path 502, which is used to reduce the heat generated by the electric drive system. The two ends of the second flow path 502 are respectively connected to two different second valve ports 122 of the multi-way valve 100, ensuring that the electric drive cooling system 2 can work independently and cooperate with the battery heat exchange system 1.

[0099] In the above technical solution, the multi-way valve 100 has at least two switchable states.

[0100] In one state, the first flow path 501 and the second flow path 502 are connected in series through the multi-way valve 100 to form a continuous cooling circuit. This means that at low temperatures, after the electric drive temperature rises, it is connected in series with the first flow path 501, and the electric drive water temperature can be used to heat the battery to improve battery performance.

[0101] Combination Figure 7 , Fig. 9 , Fig.11 , Fig.13 In some embodiments, the thermal management system 500 further includes an expansion tank 301, which is disposed on the third flow path 503 and is used to add coolant to the thermal management system 500. The expansion tank 301 pumps the coolant toward the first flow path 501 and the second flow path 502. When the first flow path 501 and the second flow path 502 are connected in series, the multi-way valve 100 blocks the third flow path 503, which can prevent the cooling water from circulating in the expansion tank 301 and causing heat loss.

[0102] In another state, combined Figure 7 , Fig. 9 , Fig.11 The first flow path 501 and the second flow path 502 are separated by switching of the multi-way valve 100 and work independently. This design allows the battery heat exchange system 1 and the electric drive cooling system 2 to be independently controlled according to actual needs, thereby improving the flexibility and efficiency of the system.

[0103] In some embodiments, in combination Fig.13The electric drive cooling system 2 also includes an electric drive assembly 202 and a bypass flow path 504, and the bypass flow path 504 is connected in parallel at both ends of the electric drive assembly 202. When the electric drive assembly 202 needs to be heated up quickly, the bypass flow path 504 will be opened, and the second flow path 502 originally flowing through the cooler 201 will be disconnected. Such an operation can prevent the cooling medium from continuing to take away the heat of the electric drive assembly 202 through the cooler 201, thereby ensuring that the electric drive assembly 202 can be heated up quickly.

[0104] For example, the first branch 31 and the second branch 32 are connected to the first flow path 501 and the multi-way valve 100, respectively. The fifth branch 35 and the fourth branch 34 are connected to the second flow path 502 and the multi-way valve 100, respectively. The fifth branch 35 and the third branch 33 are connected to the bypass flow path 504 and the multi-way valve 100, respectively; the sixth branch 36 is used to connect the multi-way valve 100 and one end of the third flow path 503. Among them, the second branch 32 and the fifth branch 35 are both liquid inlet branches of the multi-way valve 100, and the remaining branches are liquid outlet branches of the multi-way valve 100.

[0105] Reference below Figure 6-Figure 13 Four working modes and application scenarios of the thermal management system 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention are described in detail.

[0106] In a high temperature environment, in order to ensure that the electric drive cooling system 2 and the battery cooling system can independently and efficiently dissipate heat, the multi-way valve 100 is switched to the first state. At this time, the branch configuration of the multi-way valve 100 is as follows:

[0107] like Figure 6-Figure 7 As shown, the fifth branch 35 is connected to the fourth branch 34 and the sixth branch 36 to form a loop for the circulation of cooling medium. In this loop, the second flow path 502 (the flow path of the electric drive cooling system 2) is opened. After the cooling medium is cooled by the cooler 201, it can continue to circulate and provide a continuous cooling effect for the electric drive component 202. The third flow path 503 is also opened, and a part of the cooling medium is supplemented to the second flow path 502, and another part of the cooling medium is supplemented to the first flow path 501.

[0108] The first branch 31 and the second branch 32 are also in a connected state, which ensures the opening of the first flow path 501 (the flow path of the battery cooling system). At the same time, the battery heat exchanger 101 is located on the first flow path 501, which can take away the heat generated by the battery through the cooling medium to ensure the stable operation of the battery.

[0109] The third branch 33 is closed in this state to prevent the cooling medium from directly entering the electric drive assembly 202 without being cooled, and to ensure that all cooling medium flowing through the electric drive assembly 202 is sufficiently cooled to improve the heat dissipation efficiency.

[0110] like Figure 8-Figure 9As shown, in a low temperature cold car environment, in order to promote the rapid heating of the electric drive assembly 202 to reach the normal working temperature, the multi-way valve 100 will switch to the second state. In this state, the branch configuration of the multi-way valve 100 is as follows:

[0111] The fifth branch 35 is connected to the third branch 33 and the sixth branch 36, while the fourth branch 34 is closed. This configuration opens the bypass flow path 504, allowing the cooling medium to bypass the cooler 201 and flow directly to the electric drive assembly 202, thereby preventing the electric drive assembly 202 from being excessively heated by the cooling medium flowing through the cooler 201. This design helps the electric drive assembly 202 heat up faster and improves its startup and operation efficiency in a low temperature environment.

[0112] At the same time, the second flow path 502 (the flow path where the cooler 201 is located) is closed at this time, which can ensure that the cooling medium does not pass through the cooler 201 but flows directly to the electric drive component 202, thereby minimizing heat loss.

[0113] At this time, the first branch 31 and the second branch 32 are still in a connected state, ensuring that the first flow path 501 is open.

[0114] like Figure 10-11 As shown, when the water temperature of the flow path where the electric drive component 202 is located rises to a preset temperature, in order to ensure its normal operation and prevent overheating, the cooler 201 needs to be used to cool the cooling medium. However, if the low-temperature cooling medium flowing out of the cooler 201 is directly connected to the system loop, it may cause excessive temperature shock to the components in the loop. In order to alleviate this temperature shock, the multi-way valve 100 will switch to the third state. In this state, the branch configuration of the multi-way valve 100 is as follows:

[0115] The fifth branch 35 is connected to the third branch 33, the fourth branch 34 and the sixth branch 36 to form a flow path for the cooling medium. However, at this time, the valve ports 12 of the third branch 33 and the fourth branch 34 are adjusted to a smaller state, and this configuration limits the fluid flow in these two branches. The purpose of this is to gradually and slowly introduce the low-temperature cooling medium into the system circuit to avoid excessive temperature shock to sensitive components in the circuit.

[0116] At the same time, the first branch 31 and the second branch 32 are still in a connected state. The first flow path 501 is ensured to be open, so that the battery cooling system works normally.

[0117] like Figure 12-13As shown, at low temperatures, after the temperature of the electric drive component 202 rises, in order to more effectively utilize this heat and improve battery performance, the multi-way valve 100 will switch to the fourth state. In this state, the branch configuration of the multi-way valve 100 is as follows: the fifth branch 35 is connected to the first branch 31 to form a heating path. At the same time, the third branch 33 is connected to the second branch 32 to form another independent flow path. In this way, the water temperature of the flow path where the electric drive component 202 is located can be effectively utilized through these two paths. Specifically, the connection between the fifth branch 35 and the first branch 31 is to transfer the heat generated by the electric drive component 202 to the first flow path 501 where the battery is located through the bypass flow path 504, thereby heating the battery and improving its performance. This direct use of heat not only improves energy efficiency, but also helps the battery reach a suitable operating temperature faster at low temperatures.

[0118] At the same time, in order to prevent the cooling medium from passing through the cooler 201 when cooling is not required, the fourth branch 34 will be closed, so as to ensure that the cooler 201 will not work at this time, thereby reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

[0119] In addition, the sixth branch 36 also needs to be closed to prevent the cooling medium from circulating into the expansion tank 301, thereby causing heat loss.

[0120] The vehicle according to the third embodiment of the utility model includes the thermal management system 500 of the second embodiment of the present application. By adopting the thermal management system 500 of the above embodiment, the vehicle has higher efficiency and reliability in thermal management, and at the same time, the vehicle of this embodiment also has the advantage of being lightweight.

[0121] Optionally, the vehicle includes a vehicle controller, which is electrically connected to the driving component 40 to achieve control of the multi-way valve 100 .

[0122] Reference below Figure 2 - Figure 6 The multi-way valve 100 according to the embodiment of the utility model is described in detail with a specific embodiment. It is worth noting that the following description is only an exemplary description, and is not a specific limitation to the utility model.

[0123] Reference Figure 2-Figure 3 The multi-way valve 100 includes: a housing 10 , a rotary valve core 20 , a plurality of branches 40 and a driving member 40 .

[0124] The housing 10 includes a chamber 11 and a valve port 12. The chamber 11 is defined within the housing 10. The valve port 12 is provided on the housing 10 and communicates with the chamber 11.

[0125] The valve port 12 includes a first valve port 121 and a plurality of second valve ports 122. The first valve port 121 is disposed on the rotation axis of the rotary valve core 20, and the plurality of second valve ports 122 are arranged on the same circumferential surface of the housing 10 with the rotation axis as the center.

[0126] There is one first valve port 121 and five second valve ports 122 , four of which are evenly spaced around the rotation axis, and the remaining second valve port 122 is disposed between two of the second valve ports 122 .

[0127] The rotary valve core 20 is rotatably disposed in the chamber 11 around a rotation axis. The rotary valve core 20 cooperates with the inner wall of the chamber 11 to define a first communication area 13 and a second communication area 14 that are separated from each other.

[0128] The rotary valve core 20 rotates so that the first valve port 121 can selectively communicate with one of the second valve ports 122 through the first communication area 13 , and the second communication area 14 communicates with at least two of the remaining second valve ports 122 .

[0129] Reference Figure 5 The branch 30 includes: a first branch 31, a second branch 32, a third branch 33, a fourth branch 34, a fifth branch 35 and a sixth branch 36.

[0130] The first branch 31 is communicated with the first valve port 121 , and the first branch 31 is extended along the rotation axis.

[0131] The second branch 32, the third branch 33, the fourth branch 34, the fifth branch 35 and the sixth branch 36 are respectively connected to a second valve port 122. The second branch 32, the third branch 33, the fourth branch 34, the fifth branch 35 and the sixth branch 36 are respectively arranged at intervals along the circumference of the housing 10. The third branch 33 and the fourth branch 34 extend along the same radial direction of the housing 10. The second branch 32 and the fifth branch 35 extend along the same radial direction of the housing 10. The extension line of the third branch 33 and the fourth branch 34 is perpendicular to the extension line of the second branch 32 and the fifth branch 35. The sixth branch 36 is arranged on the angular bisector between the third branch 33 and the fifth branch 35.

[0132] Reference Figure 4 The rotary valve core 20 includes a partition 21 , an upper top plate 22 and a rotating shaft 23 .

[0133] Reference Figure 6 The partition 21 is used to separate the first communication area 13 and the second communication area 14.

[0134] The rotating shaft 23 is disposed on one side of the upper top plate 22. The output end of the driving member 40 is connected to the rotating shaft 23 to drive the rotary valve core 20 to rotate.

[0135] The partition portion 21 is provided on the other side of the upper top plate 22 .

[0136] The partition 21 includes a central connecting plate 210 and a valve flap 211 .

[0137] The central connecting plate 210 surrounds the outer side of the rotation axis, and the first valve port 121 is connected to the area surrounded by the central connecting plate 210 .

[0138] The valve flap 211 includes a connection end 2111 near the rotation axis and a stop end 2112 away from the rotation axis. The connection end 2111 is connected to the central connecting plate 210, and the stop end 2112 is used to block the second valve port 122 in at least one gear. There are two valve flaps 211 connected to both ends of the central connecting plate 210.

[0139] The direction of the valve flap 211 from the connecting end 2111 to the stop end 2112 is radial, and the dimension of the valve flap 211 in a direction perpendicular to the radial direction and the extension direction of the rotation axis is the width of the valve flap 211. From the connecting end 2111 to the stop end 2112, the width of the valve flap 211 gradually increases.

[0140] Other components of the multi-way valve 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, such as the thermal management system 500 and the vehicle, and operations thereof are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail herein.

[0141] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to the terms "embodiment", "example", etc. means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the utility model. In this specification, the schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner.

[0142] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-way valve, characterized in that: include: A housing, wherein a chamber is defined in the housing, and a valve port communicating with the chamber is formed on the housing, wherein the valve port includes a first valve port and a plurality of second valve ports; A rotary valve core, the rotary valve core is rotatably disposed in the chamber, the rotary valve core cooperates with the inner wall of the chamber to define a first communication area and a second communication area separated from each other, the first communication area is connected to the first valve port; When the rotary valve core rotates, the first communication area can be selectively communicated with one of the second valve ports, and the second communication area is communicated with at least two of the remaining second valve ports.

2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotary valve core includes a partition portion for separating the first communication area and the second communication area; The rotary valve core has at least two switchable gears during rotation, and the numbers of the second valve ports connected to the second communication area are different in at least two of the gears. In at least one of the gears, the partition is blocked on at least one of the second valve ports.

3. The multi-way valve according to claim 2, characterized in that: The rotary valve core rotates around a rotation axis, and the partition portion includes: A central connecting plate, wherein the central connecting plate surrounds the outer side of the rotation axis, and the first valve port is connected to the area surrounded by the central connecting plate; A valve flap, the valve flap comprises a connecting end adjacent to the rotation axis and a stop end away from the rotation axis, the connecting end is connected to the central connecting plate, the stop end is used to block the second valve port under at least one of the gear positions, and the valve flap is in two and connected to both ends of the central connecting plate.

4. The multi-way valve according to claim 3, characterized in that: The direction of the valve flap from the connecting end to the stop end is radial, and the dimension of the valve flap in a direction perpendicular to the radial direction and the extension direction of the rotation axis is the width of the valve flap. From the connecting end to the stop end, the width of the valve flap gradually increases.

5. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first valve port is arranged on the rotation axis of the rotary valve core, and the plurality of second valve ports are arranged on the same circumferential surface with the rotation axis as the center.

6. The multi-way valve according to claim 5, characterized in that: There are five second valve ports, four of which are evenly spaced around the rotation axis, and the remaining second valve port is disposed between two of the second valve ports.

7. The multi-way valve according to claim 3, characterized in that: The rotary valve core also includes: An upper top plate, wherein the partition is arranged on one side of the upper top plate; A rotating shaft, arranged on the other side of the upper top plate; The multi-way valve further comprises a driving member, an output end of which is connected to the rotating shaft to drive the rotary valve core to rotate.

8. A thermal management system, characterized in that: It comprises a multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1-7.

9. The thermal management system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The thermal management system is for a vehicle and comprises: A multi-way valve, wherein the multi-way valve is a multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 7; A battery heat exchange system, the battery heat exchange system comprising a first flow path and a battery heat exchanger provided on the first flow path, one end of the first flow path being connected to the first valve port and the other end being connected to the second valve port; An electric drive cooling system, the electric drive cooling system comprising a second flow path and a cooler provided on the second flow path, wherein two ends of the second flow path are connected to another two second valve ports; The multi-way valve has at least two switchable states, in which the first flow path and the second flow path are connected in series through the multi-way valve in one state, and the first flow path and the second flow path are separated in the other state.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that: A thermal management system comprising any one of claims 8-9.

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