Flow path switching valve

Abstract

A flow path switching valve (10) capable of suppressing flow path resistance is provided with: a valve shaft (28) that rotates about an axis by receiving a rotational force; a valve chamber (12) is formed in the interior of the valve body (14), the valve body (14) is provided with a first inlet / outlet (31), a second inlet / outlet (32) and a third inlet / outlet (33), the valve shaft can penetrate through the valve body (14), the first inlet / outlet is opened in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft, the second inlet / outlet is opened in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft and at a position different from that of the first inlet / outlet, and the third inlet / outlet (33) is opened in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft. The third inlet / outlet is opened in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft and at a position different from the first inlet / outlet and the second inlet / outlet; a valve body (16) having a flow path (36) for switching the communication state of the first, second, and third inlets / outlets, the valve body being disposed in the valve chamber and connected to the valve shaft; and a coupling part (insertion hole (16A)) formed on the opposite side of the valve body from the valve shaft and capable of concentrically coupling a valve shaft different from the valve shaft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a flow path switching valve. Background Technology

[0002] There is a valve device that switches the connection state of multiple ports of the housing by rotating the valve core (see Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-82136).

[0003] Technical problem to be solved by the utility model

[0004] In the above-mentioned conventional example, the shaft that causes the valve core to rotate due to the driving force of the drive unit is located in the fluid flow path within the housing, and thus a flow path resistance is generated through this shaft. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to obtain a flow path switching valve that can suppress flow path resistance.

[0006] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0007] A flow path switching valve of the first type comprises: a valve shaft that rotates about an axis under a rotational force; a valve body having a valve chamber formed therein, having a first inlet, a second inlet, and a third inlet, wherein the valve shaft can pass through the valve body, the first inlet opening in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft, the second inlet opening in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft and at a position different from the first inlet, and the third inlet opening in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft and at a position different from the first and second inlets; a valve core having a flow path for switching the connection state of the first inlet, the second inlet, and the third inlet, the valve core being disposed in the valve chamber and connected to the valve shaft; and a connecting portion formed in the valve core on the side opposite to the valve shaft, capable of connecting to a valve shaft different from the valve shaft in a concentric manner.

[0008] In this flow path switching valve, the valve core is rotated by the valve shaft, which is subjected to rotational force and rotates around the axis, thereby enabling the connection state of the first inlet, second inlet and third inlet of the valve chamber to be switched through the flow path of the valve core.

[0009] A connecting portion is formed in the valve core. When one valve body is arranged overlapping the other, the two valve cores can be rotated as a whole by connecting the valve shaft extending from the valve core in the valve chamber of the other valve body to the connecting portion of the valve core in the valve chamber of the first valve body.

[0010] The first, second, and third inlets / outlets all open in a direction perpendicular to the valve shaft's axis. Therefore, the valve shaft is not located at any of the first, second, or third inlets / outlets. That is, since the fluid flow path at each inlet / outlet is not narrowed by the valve shaft, flow resistance can be suppressed.

[0011] The second type of flow path switching valve is, in the first type, where the first inlet / outlet, the second inlet / outlet, and the third inlet / outlet are formed at the same position in the axial direction of the valve shaft on the valve body.

[0012] Since the first, second, and third inlets / outlets are located at the same position rather than at different positions along the valve shaft, it is possible to achieve a structure in which any one of the first, second, and third inlets / outlets is closed using the valve core without making the valve body and valve core larger in the axial direction.

[0013] The third type of flow path switching valve is, in the first or second type, in which another valve body is overlapped on the side opposite to the valve shaft of the valve core in the valve chamber of one valve body, and a valve shaft extending from the valve core in the valve chamber of the other valve body passes through the valve body as the different valve shaft and is connected to the connecting part.

[0014] In this flow path switching valve, since another valve body is overlapped and connected to the side opposite to the valve shaft in one valve body, two flow path switching valves can be integrally configured. Since the valve shaft extending from the valve core in the valve chamber of the other valve body is connected to the valve core in the valve chamber of one valve body at the connection portion, the valve cores of the valve chambers of one valve body and the valve cores of the valve chambers of the other valve body can rotate integrally.

[0015] The fourth type of flow path switching valve, in any of the first to third types, comprises: a first flow path component having a first flow path communicating with the first inlet / outlet; a second flow path component having a second flow path communicating with the second inlet / outlet and being arranged parallel to the first flow path component; and a third flow path component having a third flow path communicating with the third inlet / outlet, and being arranged obliquely relative to the axial direction of the first and second flow path components when viewed along the valve shaft.

[0016] Since the first flow path component and the second flow path component are arranged in parallel, it is easy to achieve a structure in which the first flow path component and the second flow path component do not interfere with each other and do not contact each other.

[0017] The third flow path component is arranged at an angle relative to the axial directions of the first and second flow path components when viewed along the valve shaft. Therefore, compared to a configuration where the third flow path component is parallel or perpendicular to the axial directions of the first and second flow path components when viewed along the valve shaft, the third flow path component offers greater flexibility in its configuration.

[0018] The fifth type of flow path switching valve is, in the fourth type, wherein the first flow path component, the second flow path component, and the third flow path component are each provided with connectors for connection with other components, and the third flow path component has an inclined portion that, when viewed along the axial direction of the valve shaft, is intersected and inclinedly arranged with the first flow path component and the second flow path component, such that the connector of the third flow path component is located in a position that does not interfere with the connector of the first flow path component or the second flow path component.

[0019] By having the inclined portion of the third flow path component intersect and be inclinedly arranged with the first and second flow path components, a structure can be achieved in which the connector of the third flow path component does not interfere with the connector of the first or second flow path component.

[0020] The sixth type of flow path switching valve is, in the fifth type, the third flow path component has a tubular connecting portion that connects to the third inlet / outlet and the inclined portion, and becomes part of the third flow path.

[0021] The tubular connecting part enables the third flow path component to be connected to the third inlet / outlet.

[0022] The seventh type of flow path switching valve is, in the sixth type, wherein the connecting portion extends axially along the valve shaft between the first flow path component and the second flow path component.

[0023] Since the connecting part extends along the axial direction of the valve shaft, it can ensure a larger cross-sectional area and volume of the connecting part compared to a structure without extension.

[0024] The flow path switching valve of the eighth type is, in any of the first to seventh types, having a rotary drive unit that rotates the valve shaft.

[0025] The valve shaft is rotated by a rotary drive unit, which in turn allows the valve core to rotate. In a configuration where valve bodies are arranged in an overlapping manner, the valve shaft can be rotated by a rotary drive unit, allowing multiple valve cores—both those in the valve chamber of one valve body and those in the valve chamber of another valve body—to rotate simultaneously.

[0026] The ninth type of flow path switching valve is, in any of the first to eighth types, wherein the connecting part is an insertion hole for the valve shaft to be inserted in a manner in which it cannot rotate relative to the valve core.

[0027] A connecting part can be formed by a simple structure with an insertion hole in the valve core.

[0028] Effects of the utility model

[0029] According to this invention, a flow path switching valve capable of suppressing flow path resistance can be obtained. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a front view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve according to the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a top view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve according to the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a sectional front view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve according to the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a sectional top view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve according to the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve according to the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the valve core of the flow path switching valve according to the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the valve core of the flow path switching valve according to the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0037] Figure 8 This is a front view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve involved in the second embodiment of this utility model.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a top view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve according to the second embodiment of this utility model.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a sectional front view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve according to the second embodiment of this utility model.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a sectional top view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve according to the second embodiment of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described based on the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same symbols used to denote constituent elements indicate the same constituent elements. Furthermore, in the embodiments described below, repeated descriptions and symbols are sometimes omitted. Additionally, the drawings used in the following description are schematic, and the dimensional relationships and ratios of the elements shown in the drawings may not necessarily correspond to actual figures. Figure 1 Furthermore, the dimensional relationships and proportions of the elements may not be consistent across multiple attached figures.

[0042] Additionally, in this specification, the up and down directions, for example, are... Figure 1 The vertical direction in the attached diagram is consistent with the horizontal direction, for example, it is consistent with the vertical direction. Figure 2 The vertical directions in the attached diagrams are consistent. These directions do not refer to the actual orientation during use.

[0043] The flow path switching valve 10 is used, for example, as a rotary three-way or four-way valve for switching the flow path of fluids flowing in the engine compartment of an automobile.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a front view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a top view showing the overall structure of the flow path switching valve 10 according to the first embodiment. In the technical embodiment of this utility model, multiple valves are arranged overlapping in the vertical direction (in... Figure 1 The example shown contains two flow path switching valves 10.

[0045] Each flow path switching valve 10 includes a valve body 14 and a valve core 16 (see reference). Figure 2 ), Rotary drive unit 18 (refer to) Figure 1 The system comprises a first flow path component 21, a second flow path component 22, a third flow path component 23, and a valve shaft 28. The inner sides of each of the first flow path components 21, 22, and 23 are respectively the first flow path 21P, the second flow path 22P, and the third flow path 23P. The flow path switching valve 10 is, for example, a three-way valve that switches between states where the first flow path 21P and the third flow path 23P are connected, states where the second flow path 22P and the third flow path 23P are connected, and states where the first flow path 21P and the second flow path 22P are connected. For example, in… Figure 2 In the example shown, as indicated by arrow F1, the first flow path 21P and the third flow path 23P are connected.

[0046] The valve body 14 is made of, for example, synthetic resin. A valve chamber 12 is formed inside the valve body 14. A first inlet / outlet 31 and a second inlet / outlet 32 ​​for fluid entry and exit are formed on the wall of the valve chamber 12 (see reference). Figure 2 ) and the third entrance / exit 33 (refer to Figure 5In this embodiment, the first inlet / outlet 31 and the second inlet / outlet 32 ​​are opposite each other across the valve core 16, with a central angle of 180 degrees centered on the center line CL (described later). The third inlet / outlet 33 is located between the first inlet / outlet 31 and the second inlet / outlet 32, with both the central angles between the third inlet / outlet 33 and the first inlet / outlet 31 and between the third inlet / outlet 33 and the second inlet / outlet 32 ​​being 90 degrees. The first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 open in a direction perpendicular to the center line CL. The first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 are equidistant from the center line CL. Furthermore, the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 are located at the same position in the extension direction of the center line CL.

[0047] The valve core 16 is, for example, made of synthetic resin. The valve core 16 is rotatably disposed within the valve chamber 12. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the valve core 16 is shaped as a portion of the outer circumference that is approximately spherical.

[0048] like Figure 6 As shown, an insertion hole 16A is formed on the upper part of the valve core 16, allowing the lower part of the valve shaft 28 to be inserted. Figure 3 As shown, with the lower part of the valve shaft 28 inserted into the insertion hole 16A, the valve shaft 28 protrudes upward from the valve core 16. Furthermore, the lower part of the valve shaft 28 engages with the insertion hole 16A about the axial direction of the valve shaft 28. When the valve shaft 28 rotates due to the rotational driving force of the rotation drive unit 18, the rotation of the valve shaft 28 is transmitted to the valve core 16. The insertion hole 16A does not penetrate the valve core 16 and is formed to a length that does not reach the center of the valve core 16.

[0049] like Figure 7 As shown, an insertion hole 16B is formed in the lower part of the valve core 16 for the upper part of the valve shaft 28 to be inserted. Figure 3 As shown, in a state where multiple flow path switching valves 10 are arranged in an overlapping configuration, the upper part of the valve shaft 28 is inserted into the insertion hole 16B. Thus, with the upper part of the valve shaft 28 inserted into the insertion hole 16B, the valve shaft 28 protrudes downward from the valve core 16. Furthermore, the upper part of the valve shaft 28 and the insertion hole 16B engage with each other axially around the valve shaft 28. That is, the valve shaft 28 connects the valve cores 16 of the overlapping upper flow path switching valve 10 and the valve cores 16 of the overlapping flow path switching valve 10 in a manner that prevents relative rotation, i.e., they rotate as a single unit. When the valve core 16 of the overlapping upper flow path switching valve 10 rotates, the valve core 16 of the lower flow path switching valve 10 also rotates via the valve shaft 28. In this case, the valve shaft 28 protruding upward from the valve core 16 of the lower flow path switching valve 10, with the valve core 16 of the upper flow path switching valve 10 as a reference, is a "different valve shaft" in the disclosed technology.

[0050] The center line of the upper insertion hole 16A of the valve core 16 is aligned with the center line of the lower insertion hole 16B. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the centerline coincides with the centerline CL of the valve shaft 28. Therefore, the axial direction of the valve shaft 28 inserted into the upper insertion hole 16A and the axial direction of the valve shaft 28 inserted into the lower insertion hole 16B are also in the direction of the centerline CL, and are concentric. Insertion holes 16A and 16B are examples of insertion holes and also examples of connecting parts.

[0051] The valve core 16 has a central post 44, a wall 46, and a rib 48. The central post 44 forms the center of the valve core 16, and insertion holes 16A and 16B are formed at both ends of the central post 44 in the axial direction, respectively.

[0052] The outer peripheral surface of the wall 46 forms part of the spherical shape of the valve core 16. In the valve core 16, the portion not forming the wall 46 is separated by ribs 48, becoming the flow path 36 within the valve core 16. The wall 46 is reinforced by the ribs 48. Furthermore, when the valve core 16 rotates about the center line CL, the wall 46 closes any one of the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33, depending on its direction. At this time, the inlets / outlets not closed by the wall 46 are connected through the flow path 36. That is, any two of the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 of the valve body 14 are selectively connected. In other words, the connection state of the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 of the valve body 14 can be selectively switched according to the direction of the valve core 16.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 of the valve body 14 all open in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (direction of the centerline CL) of the valve shaft 28. Therefore, as Figure 3 As shown, the structure is such that the valve shaft 28 is absent in the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33. Furthermore, the valve shaft 28 is also absent in the first flow path component 21, the second flow path component 22, and the third flow path component 23, which are respectively connected to the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33.

[0054] When either inlet or outlet is closed, the wall 46 of the valve core 16 is in close contact with the sheet component 40, which will be described later, around the closed inlet or outlet.

[0055] Sealing portions 38 are provided between the valve core 16 and the first inlet / outlet 31 and the second inlet / outlet 32 ​​to seal between them. The sealing portion 38 includes, for example, a sheet component 40 and an O-ring 42. The sheet component 40 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and is formed into an annular shape with openings corresponding to the first inlet / outlet 31 and the second inlet / outlet 32. The sheet component 40 is respectively disposed around the first inlet / outlet 31 and the second inlet / outlet 32 ​​on the inner wall surface of the valve body 14 (the front and rear walls of the valve chamber 12). The valve core 16 is held between two sheet components 40 and is rotatably and slidably disposed while in contact with each sheet component 40.

[0056] The sheet component 40 and the valve body 14 are sealed, for example, airtightly and watertightly, by O-rings 42. The O-rings 42 are installed in, for example, O-ring grooves (not shown) formed in the sheet component 40.

[0057] As an example, the valve body 14 and valve core 16 can be made of PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), the sheet component 40 can be made of PTFE (fluoropolymer), and the O-ring 42 can be made of synthetic rubber.

[0058] The rotary drive unit 18 is connected to the valve body 14. The rotary drive unit 18 includes, for example, a geared electric motor. The rotary drive unit 18 is a device that rotates the valve core 16 to selectively switch the connection state of the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 through the flow path 36 of the valve core 16. The rotary drive unit 18 is disposed above the upper side of the valve body 14.

[0059] A valve shaft 28, serving as an output shaft, is integrated into the rotary drive unit 18. The valve shaft 28 is inserted into a through hole formed in the bracket 24. The lower end of the valve shaft 28 is inserted into the insertion hole 16A of the valve core 16. Figure 5 The valve shaft 28 is subjected to the rotational force of the rotary drive unit 18 and rotates around the shaft (around the center line CL).

[0060] In this embodiment, multiple flow path switching valves 10 can be connected in an overlapping manner. For example, when one flow path switching valve 10 is connected to a rotary drive unit 18, other flow path switching valves 10 can be connected in an overlapping manner on the opposite side of the rotary drive unit 18. Alternatively, three or more flow path switching valves 10 can be connected in an overlapping manner. When multiple flow path switching valves 10 are arranged in an overlapping manner, the valve bodies 14 of each flow path switching valve 10 are also arranged in an overlapping manner.

[0061] like Figure 3As shown, the connecting portion 66 of the valve body 14 extends downward from the valve chamber 12, and the connecting portion 68 extends upward. When multiple flow path switching valves 10 are connected vertically, the lower surface of the connecting portion 66 faces the upper surface of the connecting portion 68. The connecting portions 66 and 68 are connected without offset, for example, by internal angle fitting, maintaining the connection state of the multiple flow path switching valves 10.

[0062] Through holes 74 are formed in connecting portions 66 and 68. Valve shaft 28 can be inserted through the through holes 74. By inserting the valve shaft 28 through the through holes 74, the valve cores 16 of the upper and lower flow path switching valves 10 can be synchronously connected in a rotatable manner. In this case, as described above, the valve shaft 28 protruding upwards from the lower valve core 16 corresponds to a "different valve shaft" in the disclosed technology based on the upper valve core 16. That is, the valve shaft 28 protruding from the lower valve core 16, as a "different valve shaft," passes through the through hole 74 of the valve body 14 and is inserted into the insertion hole 16B of the upper valve core 16.

[0063] The first flow path component 21, the second flow path component 22, and the third flow path component 23 are, for example, tubular components integrally formed with the valve body 14.

[0064] The first flow path component 21, for example, has a straight portion that is open at both ends and extends along the direction of axis J1, and a branch portion that branches off from the middle of the straight portion, forming a roughly T-shape when viewed from above (see reference). Figure 2 and Figure 4 The straight portion of the first flow path component 21 is arranged, for example, in the left-right direction. The branch portion of the first flow path component 21 communicates with the first inlet / outlet 31 of the valve chamber 12.

[0065] The second flow path component 22 is arranged side-by-side with the first flow path component 21 across the valve body 14. The second flow path component 22 has, for example, a straight portion that is open at both ends and extends along the direction of the axis J2, and a branch portion that branches from the straight portion, forming a roughly T-shape when viewed from above (see reference). Figure 2 and Figure 4 The straight portion of the second flow path component 22 is arranged, for example, in the left-right direction, parallel to the straight portion of the first flow path component 21. The branch portion of the second flow path component 22 communicates with the second inlet / outlet 32 ​​of the valve chamber 12. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the flow path switching valve 10 viewed along the axial direction of valve shaft 28 (in the direction of centerline CL). Additionally, Figure 2This is a view of the flow path switching valve 10 viewed in the normal direction of the plane containing the axis J1 of the first flow path component 21 and the axis J2 of the second flow path component 22. The center line CL of the valve shaft 28 is one of the normals of the plane containing the axis J1 of the first flow path component 21 and the axis J2 of the second flow path component 22. The direction in which the flow path switching valve 10 is viewed from above or below is the normal direction of the plane containing the axis J1 of the first flow path component 21 and the axis J2 of the second flow path component 22.

[0066] like Figure 2 As shown, female connectors 51 and 52 are respectively provided at one end of the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22. Male connectors 61 and 62 are respectively provided at the other end of the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22. Male connectors 61 and 62 are configured to connect with female connectors 51 and 52. By connecting male connectors 61 and 62 and female connectors 51 and 52 respectively, multiple flow path switching valves 10 can be connected in the left-right direction (lateral direction). The outer diameter of the first flow path component 21 is larger in the part where female connectors 51 and male connectors 61 are formed than in the part where female connectors 51 and male connectors 61 are not formed (the middle part of the straight section). Similarly, the outer diameter of the second flow path component 22 is larger in the part where female connectors 52 and male connectors 62 are formed than in the part where female connectors 52 and male connectors 62 are not formed (the middle part of the straight section). Male connector 61 is an example of a connector in the first flow path component 21. Male connector 62 is an example of a connector in the second flow path component 22.

[0067] Pumps can be installed at the female connector 51 or male connector 61 of the first flow path component 21 at the end of the flow path switching valve 10 and at the female connector 52 or male connector 62 of the second flow path component 22 at the end. These pumps can supply fluid from other equipment to the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22, or supply fluid from the first flow path component 21 to other equipment.

[0068] The third flow path component 23 has a tubular connecting portion 23A communicating with the third inlet / outlet 33 and a tubular inclined portion 23B extending from the connecting portion 23A. The connecting portion 23A is arranged, for example, parallel to the centerline CL of the valve shaft 28. More specifically, the connecting portion 23A is located between the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22, extending axially along the valve shaft 28. One end of the connecting portion 23A communicates with the third inlet / outlet 33.

[0069] One end of the inclined portion 23B communicates with the connecting portion 23A. The other end of the inclined portion 23B is located on the side opposite to the third inlet / outlet 33, and the end of the third flow path component 23 is open. A male connector 63, for example, is provided at the open end of the third flow path component 23 for connection to piping to other equipment. The outer diameter of the third flow path component 23 is larger in the portion where the male connector 63 is formed than in the portion where the male connector 63 is not formed. The male connector 63 is an example of a connector in the third flow path component 23.

[0070] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, when the flow path switching valve 10 is viewed along the axial direction of the valve shaft 28, the inclined portion 23B intersects with and is inclined laterally to the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22. More specifically, the inclined portion 23B is inclined relative to the axis J1 of the first flow path component 21 and the axis J2 of the second flow path component 22. By inclining the inclined portion 23B in this way, the male connector 63 of the third flow path component 23 becomes part of the first flow path component 21, specifically, the position of the first flow path component 21 offset relative to the male connector 61. That is, the male connector 63 is configured to be in a position that does not interfere with the male connector 61.

[0071] The connecting part 23A is located at a different position from the valve chamber 12 between the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22. Figure 2 In the example shown, the connecting part 23A is more inclined towards the valve chamber 12 than the valve chamber 12. Figure 2 The lower side of the valve is offset and extends axially along the valve shaft 28. In this way, by extending the connecting part 23A and the valve chamber 12 in different spaces, a structure is formed that can ensure the cross-sectional area and volume of the connecting part 23A without being affected by the shape of the valve chamber 12.

[0072] Next, the function of the first embodiment will be explained.

[0073] In the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, the valve shaft 28 is rotated by the rotation drive 18, thereby rotating the valve core 16, which allows selective switching of the connection state of the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 of the valve chamber 12 through the flow path 36 of the valve core 16. For example, in Figure 2 In the example shown, the wall 46 of the valve core 16 closes the second inlet / outlet 32. In this state, the first inlet / outlet 31 and the third inlet / outlet 33 are connected.

[0074] In the first embodiment, multiple flow path switching valves 10 are connected in an overlapping manner, and each valve body 14 is also arranged in an overlapping manner. Furthermore, the valve cores 16 of each flow path switching valve 10 are connected in a synchronous rotational manner via valve shafts 28. Therefore, by the rotational driving force of a rotation drive unit 18, multiple valve cores 16 can be rotated synchronously as a whole via valve shafts 28.

[0075] The first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 of the valve chamber 12 all open in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (direction of the centerline CL) of the valve shaft 28. Therefore, the valve shaft 28 is absent in the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33. When the valve shaft 28 is present in any of the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet / outlet containing the valve shaft 28 becomes narrower, thus creating flow path resistance caused by the valve shaft 28 for fluid movement. However, in the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, since the valve shaft 28 is absent in any of the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33, no flow path resistance caused by the valve shaft 28 is generated.

[0076] Furthermore, in the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, there is no valve shaft 28 in the first flow path component 21, the second flow path component 22, and the third flow path component 23, which are respectively connected to the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33. Therefore, no flow path resistance caused by the valve shaft 28 will be generated in the first flow path component 21, the second flow path component 22, and the third flow path component 23.

[0077] In the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22 are arranged in parallel in their respective straight sections. This achieves a structure in which the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22 do not interfere with each other.

[0078] In the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, the inclined portion 23B of the third flow path component 23 intersects the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22 when viewed axially along the valve shaft 28. Furthermore, the inclined portion 23B of the third flow path component 23 extends in a direction inclined relative to the axis J1 of the first flow path component 21 and the axis J2 of the second flow path component 22. Therefore, compared to a configuration where the inclined portion 23B of the third flow path component 23 is arranged parallel or perpendicular to the axis J1 of the first flow path component 21 and the axis J2 of the second flow path component 22 when viewed axially along the valve shaft 28, the shape and arrangement of the third flow path component 23 have a higher degree of freedom.

[0079] Furthermore, the first flow path component 21, the second flow path component 22, and the third flow path component 23 all have male connectors 61, 62, and 63. When viewed axially along the valve shaft 28, the inclined portion 23B of the third flow path component 23 is configured perpendicularly to the axis J1 of the first flow path component 21 and the axis J2 of the second flow path component 22, raising concerns that any one of the male connectors 61, 62, and 63 might interfere. However, in the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, from... Figure 2As can be seen, the inclined portion 23B of the third flow path component 23 extends in a direction inclined relative to the axis J1 of the first flow path component 21 and the axis J2 of the second flow path component 22. This results in a configuration where the male connectors 61, 62, and 63 are positioned so as not to interfere with each other. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In this configuration, the male connector 63 of the third flow path component 23 is positioned so as not to interfere with the male connector 61 of the first flow path component 21. However, depending on the shape of the third flow path component 23, the male connector 63 may also be positioned so as not to interfere with the male connector 62 of the second flow path component 22. Furthermore, in... Figure 2 In the middle, the inclined portion 23B of the third flow path component 23 appears to be in contact with the male connector 61 of the first flow path component 21, but in reality, the third flow path component 23 and the first flow path component 21 are offset in the axial direction of the valve shaft 28, so the inclined portion 23B does not contact the male connector 61.

[0080] In the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, the connecting portion 23A extends axially along the valve shaft 28. By extending the connecting portion 23A in this way, a flow configuration that ensures the flow rate of the connecting portion 23A can be formed regardless of the shapes of the valve chamber 12, the first flow path component 21, and the second flow path component 22. In particular, by positioning the connecting portion 23A between the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22, the cross-sectional area and volume of the connecting portion 23A are ensured without excessively increasing the size of the flow path switching valve 10.

[0081] In the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, a rotary drive unit 18 is provided. On the opposite side of the rotary drive unit 18 of one valve body 14, other valve bodies 14 are connected in an overlapping manner. In this configuration where multiple flow path switching valves 10 are connected in an overlapping manner, the valve cores 16 of the multiple flow path switching valves 10 are connected by a valve shaft 28. Therefore, by the rotary driving force of one rotary drive unit 18, multiple valve cores 16 connected by the valve shaft 28 can be rotated synchronously.

[0082] Insertion holes 16A and 16B are formed in the valve core 16. By inserting the valve shaft 28 into these insertion holes 16A and 16B, the valve shaft 28 and the valve core 16 can be easily connected. Furthermore, the connection part disclosed in the technology is not limited to insertion holes such as insertion holes 16A and 16B; for example, the valve shaft 28 and the valve core 16 can also be connected by bonding, welding, fastening, etc.

[0083] Next, the second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, elements, components, etc., that are the same as those in the first embodiment are marked with the same symbols as in the first embodiment, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0084] like Figures 8-11As shown, in the flow path switching valve 80 of the second embodiment, when the flow path switching valve 10 is viewed from above or below, the inclined portion 23B of the third flow path component 23 extends in a direction perpendicular to the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22 (strictly speaking, it is in a torsional position). Furthermore, the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22 are formed to be longer than those in the flow path switching valve 10 of the first embodiment, thereby achieving a structure in which the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22 do not interfere with the third flow path component 23.

[0085] Furthermore, in the flow path switching valve 80 of the second embodiment, the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33 of the valve chamber 12 all open in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (direction of the center line CL) of the valve shaft 28, and the valve shaft 28 is absent in the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33. Therefore, in the flow path switching valve 80 of the second embodiment, no flow path resistance caused by the valve shaft 28 is generated in any of the first inlet / outlet 31, the second inlet / outlet 32, and the third inlet / outlet 33. In addition, the valve shaft 28 is absent in the first flow path component 21, the second flow path component 22, and the third flow path component 23, and no flow path resistance caused by the valve shaft 28 is generated in the first flow path component 21, the second flow path component 22, and the third flow path component 23.

[0086] Furthermore, the flow path switching valve 10 is not limited to a three-way valve; for example, it can also be a four-way valve. In this case, for example, four inlets and outlets are formed in the valve core 16 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft 28. And, for example, by rotating the valve core 16, it is possible to switch the state in which two of the four inlets and outlets are connected.

[0087] The embodiments of this utility model have been described above. However, the embodiments of this utility model are not limited to the above content. In addition to the above, various modifications can be made within the scope of its spirit, which is self-evident.

[0088] Although the structure consists of female connectors 51 and 52 respectively provided at one end of the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22, and male connectors 61 and 62 respectively provided at the other end of the first flow path component 21 and the second flow path component 22, which can be connected to the female connectors 51 and 52, it can also be a structure without such connector structure.

Claims

1. A flow path switching valve, comprising: A valve shaft that is subjected to a rotational force and rotates about its axis; A valve body having a valve chamber inside, having a first inlet, a second inlet and a third inlet, and a valve shaft passing through the valve body, the first inlet opening in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft, the second inlet opening in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft and at a different position than the first inlet, and the third inlet opening in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve shaft and at a different position than the first and second inlets; A valve core, which forms a flow path for switching the connection state of the first inlet / outlet, the second inlet / outlet and the third inlet / outlet, is disposed in the valve chamber and connected to the valve shaft; as well as A connecting part is formed in the valve core on the side opposite to the valve shaft, which can connect to a valve shaft different from the valve shaft in a coaxial manner.

2. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein, The first inlet / outlet, the second inlet / outlet, and the third inlet / outlet are formed at the same position in the axial direction of the valve shaft in the valve body.

3. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein, On the side of the valve core, which is located in the valve chamber of one valve body and is opposite to the valve shaft, another valve body is disposed overlapping thereon. A valve shaft extending from the valve core in the valve chamber of another valve body passes through the valve body as the different valve shaft and is connected to the connecting part.

4. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, comprising: A first flow path component, the first flow path component having a first flow path communicating with the first inlet / outlet; A second flow path component, which has a second flow path communicating with the second inlet / outlet and is arranged parallel to the first flow path component; and A third flow path component has a third flow path communicating with the third inlet / outlet, and when viewed along the axial direction of the valve shaft, the third flow path component is arranged obliquely relative to the axial direction of the first flow path component and the second flow path component.

5. The flow path switching valve according to claim 4, wherein, The first flow path component, the second flow path component, and the third flow path component each have connectors for connecting with other components. The third flow path component has an inclined portion that, when viewed along the axial direction of the valve shaft, intersects and is inclinedly configured with respect to the first and second flow path components, such that the connector of the third flow path component is located in a position that does not interfere with the connector of the first or second flow path component.

6. The flow path switching valve according to claim 5, wherein, The third flow path component has a tubular connecting portion that communicates with the third inlet / outlet and the inclined portion, and becomes part of the third flow path.

7. The flow path switching valve according to claim 6, wherein, The connecting portion extends axially along the valve shaft between the first flow path component and the second flow path component.

8. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein, It has a rotary drive unit that rotates the valve shaft.

9. The flow path switching valve according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting part is an insertion hole for inserting the valve shaft in a manner that prevents relative rotation with respect to the valve core.

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