Multi-way valves, thermal management systems and vehicles

Abstract

This utility model discloses a multi-way valve, a thermal management system, and a vehicle. The multi-way valve includes a housing and a valve core. The multi-way valve has a first state in which the first flow port of the second flow channel is fully connected to the switching flow channel, and the first flow ports of both first flow channels are partially connected to the switching flow channel. Each first flow channel includes a first flow section and a second flow section that are bent and connected. The end of the first flow section away from the second flow section forms the first flow port, and the end of the second flow section away from the first flow section forms the second flow port. The angle between the central axis of the first flow section and the central axis of the second flow section of at least one first flow channel is α, where 120°≤α≤130°. The angle between the two sidewalls of the switching flow channel on the cross-section of the valve core is β, where 115°≤β≤135°. According to the embodiments of this utility model, by designing the values ​​of α and β to be within a suitable range, the flow resistance of the fluid within the multi-way valve can be effectively reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of multi-way valve technology, and in particular to a multi-way valve, a thermal management system, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, multi-way valves switch between flow channels and flow paths to achieve flow distribution. Many factors influence the flow resistance of the fluid within the multi-way valve, but the design does not address the impact of the switching flow channels on this resistance; therefore, further optimization is needed. Utility Model Content

[0003] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a multi-way valve, a thermal management system, and a vehicle, which, by designing the values ​​of α and β to be within a suitable range, can effectively reduce the flow resistance of fluid within the multi-way valve.

[0004] This application provides a multi-way valve, comprising: a housing having multiple flow channels, including a first flow channel and a second flow channel, wherein one of the first and second flow channels is an inlet channel and the other is an outlet channel, each flow channel having a first outlet and a second outlet, the first outlet being formed inside the housing and the second outlet being formed outside the housing; and a valve core rotatably disposed within the housing, the valve core having at least one switching flow channel, the first and second flow channels being sequentially arranged along the circumference of the valve core, and the second flow channel being located between two first flow channels. The multi-way valve has a first state, in... In the first state, the first flow port of the second flow channel is fully connected to the switching flow channel, and the first flow ports of both first flow channels are partially connected to the switching flow channel; wherein, each flow channel includes a first flow section and a second flow section that are bent and connected, the end of the first flow section away from the second flow section forms the first flow port, the end of the second flow section away from the first flow section forms the second flow port, the angle between the central axis of the first flow section and the central axis of the second flow section of at least one first flow channel is α, 120°≤α≤130°, and the angle between the two side walls of the switching flow channel on the cross-section of the valve core is β, 115°≤β≤135°.

[0005] In the above technical solution, by setting the angle between the central axis of the first flow section of at least one first flow channel and the central axis of the second flow section to be α, 120°≤α≤130°, and the angle between the two side walls of the switching channel on the cross-section of the valve core to be β, 115°≤β≤135°, the flow resistance of the multi-way valve can be effectively reduced.

[0006] In some embodiments of this application, the central axis of the second flow section of the second flow channel intersects perpendicularly with the rotation axis of the valve core, and the two first flow channels are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the second flow section of the second flow channel.

[0007] In some embodiments of this application, the multi-way valve further has a second state in which the first flow port of the second flow channel is fully connected to the switching flow channel, and the first flow port of one of the two first flow channels is fully connected to the switching flow channel.

[0008] In some embodiments of this application, the height of the switching channel in the axial direction of the valve core is h, 14mm≤h≤18mm; and / or, the depth of the switching channel in the radial direction of the valve core is d, 10mm≤d≤12mm.

[0009] In some embodiments of this application, the multi-way valve further includes at least one sealing element, the sealing element including a body, the body forming an avoidance through hole, the avoidance through hole corresponding to and communicating with the first flow port, and the sealing element contacting the valve core and the housing respectively.

[0010] In some embodiments of this application, the seal further includes a sealing rib, which is disposed on at least one side of the body in the thickness direction. At least two sealing ribs are provided on the outer side of the clearance through hole, and each sealing rib is disposed around the corresponding clearance through hole.

[0011] In some embodiments of this application, the seal further includes at least one reinforcing rib, which connects two adjacent sealing ribs.

[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the sealing rib includes a plurality of sealing segments connected end to end, the plurality of sealing segments forming the sealing rib into a polygonal structure.

[0013] In some embodiments of this application, the seal further includes a plurality of reinforcing ribs, at least one of the reinforcing ribs being disposed between two adjacent sealing segments, and the reinforcing rib being disposed in the middle of the corresponding sealing segment.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the housing forms a limiting groove, the first flow port is formed on the bottom wall of the limiting groove, the sealing member is disposed in the limiting groove, and the sealing member is in a stop-fitting engagement with the groove side wall of the limiting groove.

[0015] In some embodiments of this application, a guide surface is formed on the side of the seal facing the housing, the guide surface being used to guide the seal into the limiting groove.

[0016] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a thermal management system, including a multi-way valve according to the first aspect of the present invention described above.

[0017] In the above technical solution, the performance of the thermal management system can be improved by using the aforementioned multi-way valve.

[0018] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a vehicle including a thermal management system according to the second aspect of the present invention described above.

[0019] In the above technical solution, the performance of the vehicle can be improved by adopting the aforementioned thermal management system.

[0020] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0023] Figure 2 This is another schematic diagram of a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0024] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Sectional view along line AA;

[0025] Figure 4 These are schematic diagrams of the housing and drive structure provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a valve core provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Sectional view along the BB line;

[0028] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of a sealing element provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Another schematic diagram of the seal shown;

[0030] Figure 9 These are schematic diagrams of vehicles provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0031] Figure label:

[0032] Vehicle 300, Thermal Management System 200

[0033] Multi-way valve 100, drive structure 4,

[0034] Housing 1, first flow port 1a, second flow port 1b, first flow section 1e, second flow section 1c, valve cavity 1d, first flow channel 11, second flow channel 12, limiting groove 13.

[0035] Valve core 2, switching flow channel 21

[0036] 3. Seal, 3a. Guide surface, 31. Body, 311. Avoidance through hole, 32. Sealing rib, 321. Reinforcing rib, 33. Wear-resistant part, 34. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0038] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the present invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention; however, those skilled in the art will recognize the applicability of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0039] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0040] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a multi-way valve 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0041] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the multi-way valve 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 1 and a valve core 2. The housing 1 has a plurality of spaced-apart flow channels, including a first flow channel 11 and a second flow channel 12. One of the first flow channel 11 and the second flow channel 12 is a liquid inlet channel and the other is a liquid outlet channel. Each flow channel has a first flow port 1a and a second flow port 1b. The first flow port 1a is formed on the inner side of the housing 1 and the second flow port 1b is formed on the outer side of the housing 1. The first flow port 1a can be formed on the inner surface of the housing 1 and the second flow port 1b is formed on the outer surface of the housing 1. For a single flow channel, one of the first flow port 1a and the second flow port 1b is used as an inlet and the other is used as an outlet.

[0042] Wherein, one of the first flow channel 11 and the second flow channel 12 is a liquid inlet channel and the other is a liquid outlet channel, which may include any of the following situations: 1. The first flow channel 11 is always used as a liquid inlet channel and the second flow channel 12 is always used as a liquid outlet channel; 2. The first flow channel 11 is always used as a liquid outlet channel and the second flow channel 12 is always used as a liquid inlet channel; 3. The first flow channel 11 can be switched between being a liquid inlet channel and a liquid outlet channel, and the second flow channel 12 will also be switched accordingly.

[0043] The valve core 2 is rotatably disposed within the housing 1. The valve core 2 has at least one switching flow channel 21. A first flow channel 11 and a second flow channel 12 are arranged sequentially along the circumference of the valve core 2, and the second flow channel 12 is located between the two first flow channels 11. The multi-way valve 100 has a first state in which the first flow port 1a of the second flow channel 12 is fully connected to the switching flow channel 21, and the first flow ports 1a of both first flow channels 11 are partially connected to the switching flow channel 21. Each first flow channel 11 includes a first flow section 1e and a second flow section 1c that are bent and connected. The first flow section 1e is further away from the second flow channel 21. A first flow port 1a is formed at one end of the second flow section 1c, and a second flow port 1b is formed at the end of the second flow section 1c away from the first flow section 1e. The angle between the central axis of the first flow section 1e and the central axis of the second flow section 1c of at least one first flow channel 11 is α, where 120°≤α≤130°. The angle between the two side walls of the switching channel 21 on the cross-section of the valve core 2 (i.e., the two side walls of the switching channel 21 on the circumferential direction of the valve core 2) is β, where 115°≤β≤135°. The cross-section of the valve core 2 is perpendicular to the central axis of the valve core 2, which is the rotation axis of the valve core 2. Optionally, α can be 120°, 122°, 125°, 127°, or 130°, etc.; β can be 115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, or 135°, etc.

[0044] It is understandable that when the first flow port 1a of the second flow channel 11 is fully connected to the switching channel 21, the connection between the first flow port 1a and the switching channel 21 can reach the maximum connection area between them. When the first flow port 1a of the first flow channel 11 is partially connected to the switching channel 21, it can be understood that a portion of the area of ​​the first flow port 1a of the first flow channel 11 is not connected to the switching channel 21, while another portion is connected to the switching channel 21. That is, the first flow port 1a of the first flow channel 11 can be proportionally connected to the switching channel 21. In this case, the connection area between the first flow port 1a of the first flow channel 11 and the switching channel 21 is less than the maximum connection area that can be achieved when the first flow port 1a is connected to the switching channel 21.

[0045] For example, combined Figures 2-4 This explanation uses a multi-way valve 100 as an example, where the housing 1 has three flow channels and the valve core 2 has a switching flow channel 21. Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that the multi-way valve 100 can have more than three flow channels in the housing 1 and multiple switching flow channels 21 in the valve core 2, and can be a four-way valve, five-way valve, six-way valve, or other designs. For example, in conjunction with... Figure 4The multi-way valve 100 includes a housing 1 and a valve core 2. The housing 1 forms a valve cavity 1d. Three flow channels on the housing 1 are spaced apart circumferentially along the valve core 2, and the three flow channels are two first flow channels 11 and one second flow channel 12, with the second flow channel 12 located between the two first flow channels 11. Each flow channel has a first flow port 1a and a second flow port 1b. The first flow ports 1a are formed on the inner side of the housing 1, that is, the three first flow ports 1a are sequentially arranged on the inner wall of the valve cavity 1d along the circumference of the valve core 2. The second flow ports 1b are formed on the outer side of the housing 1, that is, the three second flow ports 1b are sequentially arranged on the outer side of the housing 1. The valve core 2 is formed into a cylindrical structure and is rotatably disposed in the valve cavity 1d. The valve core 2 forms a switching flow channel 21. Rotation of the valve core 2 can switch the connection between the switching flow channel 21 and the first flow channel 11 and the second flow channel 12, or the switching flow channel 21 can be fully or partially connected to the first flow port 1a of the first flow channel 11 or the second flow channel 12.

[0046] In this system, two first flow channels 11 are inlet channels, and a second flow channel 12 is an outlet channel. When the multi-way valve 100 is in its first state, the first flow port 1a of the second flow channel 12 is fully connected to the switching channel 21, and the first flow ports 1a of both first flow channels 11 are partially connected to the switching channel 21. The ratio of the communication area between the first flow ports 1a of the two first flow channels 11 and the switching channel 21 can be changed with the rotation of the valve core 2, thus changing the flow ratio within the two first flow channels 11. Therefore, when the multi-way valve 100 is operating, the communication ratio between the two first flow channels 11 and the switching channel 21 can be adjusted. For example, taking the first flow channel 11 as an inlet channel, increasing the communication ratio between one first flow channel 11 and the switching channel 21 while decreasing the communication ratio between the other first flow channel 11 and the switching channel 21 allows for adjustment of the inlet flow rate of the two first flow channels 11, thereby adjusting the mixing ratio of the inlet flow of the two first flow channels 11 and achieving flow ratio distribution within the multi-way valve 100. For example, if the inlet temperatures of the two first flow channels 11 are different, the outlet temperature of the second flow channel 12 can be adjusted by adjusting the inlet temperatures of the two first flow channels 11, so as to better adapt to the needs of the thermal management system and facilitate the temperature adjustment of various positions in the vehicle.

[0047] Optionally, in the first state, the sum of the flow rates of the two first flow channels 11 is equal to the flow rate of the second flow channel 12, thereby ensuring that the inlet flow rate and outlet flow rate of the multi-way valve 100 are equal, thus guaranteeing stable flow distribution of the multi-way valve 100. For example, if the two first flow channels 11 are inlet channels and the second flow channel 12 is an outlet channel, in the first state, the sum of the inlet flow rates of the two first flow channels 11 is equal to the outlet flow rate of the second flow channel 12.

[0048] After analyzing various factors that may affect the flow resistance of the fluid inside the multi-way valve 100, the inventors creatively discovered that when the range of values ​​for α and β is simultaneously limited, the flow resistance of the fluid inside the multi-way valve 100 in this embodiment of the present invention can be effectively reduced.

[0049] The inventors discovered that the design of β primarily affects the fluid resistance within the multi-way valve 100 by influencing the fluid flow rate. They creatively found that as the angle of β increases, the fluid flow rate in the corresponding switching channel 21 and flow passage of the multi-way valve 100 increases (according to the formula below, an increase in the β angle should decrease the local resistance coefficient ζ; however, simulations show that an increase in the β angle leads to an increase in liquid velocity, resulting in increased local pressure loss. This demonstrates that in the liquid flow process, velocity has a dominant effect on pressure loss). Consequently, the fluid resistance of the multi-way valve 100 also increases. This is consistent with the formula dp=ζ*V. 2 *ρ / 2, dp represents the local pressure loss of the fluid, ζ is the local resistance coefficient, a dimensionless coefficient related to the structure of the local obstacle and determined experimentally, V is the fluid flow velocity (e.g., average velocity, usually referring to the velocity after local loss), and ρ is the fluid density. It can be concluded that as the fluid flow velocity increases, the local pressure loss also increases. Furthermore, the local pressure loss is generally caused by both liquid resistance and frictional resistance. Therefore, it can be understood that as the local pressure loss increases, the flow resistance of the fluid within the multi-way valve 100 increases. In other words, a larger value for β is not always better.

[0050] Secondly, in the embodiments of this application, the switching channel 21 needs to simultaneously connect two first flow channels 11 and two flow channels 12 in the first state, and the two first flow channels 11 and two flow channels 12 are arranged sequentially along the circumference of the valve core 2. Therefore, the design of β of the switching channel 21 has a minimum limiting angle. That is, if the value of β is smaller, the multi-way valve 100 cannot achieve the connected state in the first state (two inlets and one outlet or one inlet and two outlet flow ratio distribution). In other words, the value of β is not necessarily better the smaller it is.

[0051] Furthermore, the inventors discovered that the first flow channel 11 can be approximately understood as a flow bend (e.g., a uniform bend with a smooth wall). According to the formula for the local resistance coefficient of a bend in engineering fluid mechanics, ζ = ζ' * (180 - α)° / 90°, it can be concluded that within a certain range, as the value of α increases, the local resistance coefficient of the bend in the first flow channel 11 becomes smaller, that is, the fluid resistance within the first flow channel 11 becomes smaller. Here, ζ' is the local resistance coefficient of the flow bend, and ζ' is a constant value related to d0 / (2*R) of the flow bend. d0 is the diameter of the straight section of the flow bend (e.g., when the central axes of the first flow section 1e and the second flow section 1c are both straight lines, it can be understood as the diameter of the first flow section and the diameter of the second flow section 1c), and R is the bending radius of the bend section of the flow bend (which can be understood as the bent connection between the first flow section 1e and the second flow section 1c). The relationship between d0 / (2*R) and ζ' is shown in Table 1 below.

[0052] Table 1:

[0053] <![CDATA[d0 / (2*R)]]> 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 ζ' 0.13 0.14 0.16 0.21 0.29

[0054] When it is necessary to increase the angle α, the first method is to reduce the vertical distance between the central axis of the second flow section 1c of the first flow channel 11 and the rotation axis of the valve core 2. This can be understood as the second flow section 1c moving closer to the position of the second flow channel 12, while the first flow port 1a of the first flow channel 11 moves circumferentially closer to the first flow port 1a of the second flow channel 12. At this time, the overall structure of the multi-way valve 100 will be reduced accordingly, that is, the corresponding structure of the housing 1 of the multi-way valve 100 also needs to be reduced accordingly. The inventor's experiment found that when the structure of the housing 1 of the multi-way valve 100 is reduced, the demolding difficulty of the housing 1 in the injection molding process of mass production increases, and the yield rate decreases. Secondly, the position of the first flow channel 11 moving closer to the second flow channel 12 will squeeze the design of the second flow channel 12, that is, the design structure of the first flow channel 11 will occupy the design space of the second flow channel 12. Furthermore, if the design structure of the first flow channel 11 occupies less space in the second flow channel 12, the wall thickness of the corresponding flow channel of the first flow channel 11 can be reduced. However, this would further exacerbate the demolding difficulty of the injection molding of the housing 1. Therefore, the design scheme of increasing the angle α by reducing the vertical distance between the central axis of the second flow section 1c of the first flow channel 11 and the rotation axis of the valve core 2 cannot meet the requirements of mass production.

[0055] The second approach involves increasing the vertical distance between the central axis of the second flow section 1c of the first flow channel 11 and the rotation axis of the valve core 2. This can be understood as the second flow section 1c moving further away from the second flow channel 12, while the first flow port 1a of the first flow channel 11 moves circumferentially away from the second flow channel 12. This would correspondingly increase the size of the multi-way valve 100. This design increases the cost of the multi-way valve 100, and the circumferential distance between the first flow port 1a of the first flow channel 11 and the first flow port 1a of the second flow channel 12 also increases. Consequently, the value of β in the switching channel 21 also needs to be increased. However, increasing β in the switching channel 21 increases the flow resistance. Therefore, there is a certain contradiction between the design values ​​of α and β. When the value of α increases, the value of β also needs to increase due to limitations in the functionality of the multi-way valve 100. However, increasing β increases the flow resistance, and the value of β has a limiting design angle. Therefore, the inventors' experiments have shown that when the value of α is between 120° and 130° and the value of β is between 115° and 135°, the design requirements of α and β can be effectively taken into account at the same time, and the fluid resistance can be significantly reduced.

[0056] The specific experimental simulation results are as follows: Fluid medium properties: The fluid is 50% ethylene glycol and 50% water, the fluid temperature is 20℃, and the fluid density is 1073 kg / m³. 3 The fluid viscosity is 3.95 mPas. Pressure drop can be understood as the pressure loss of the fluid after passing through the switching channel 21 and the first flow channel 11. The greater the pressure drop, the greater the flow resistance of the fluid, and vice versa.

[0057] Simulation experiment: The pressure drop of the fluid after passing through the switching channel 21 and the first flow channel 11 was measured at different values ​​of α and β at volumetric flow rates of 5 L / min, 10 L / min, 15 L / min, 20 L / min, and 25 L / min. The angle between the central axis of the first flow section and the central axis of the second flow section 1c of the first flow channel 11 is α, and the angle between the two sidewalls of the switching channel 21 on the cross-section of the valve core 2 is β. The results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0058] Table 2:

[0059]

[0060] Therefore, referring to Table 2, α and β in the experiments of this application embodiment (e.g., Experiments 3, 5, and 6) are all within the above-mentioned value range. Compared to the comparative experiments (e.g., Experiments 1, 2, 7, and 8) where one of α and β is within the above-mentioned value range, the pressure drop of the fluid after passing through the switching channel 21 and the first flow channel 11 is smaller. That is, when the value of α or β is within the above-mentioned value range, the flow resistance within the multi-way valve 100 can be reduced. Although the flow resistance of Experiment 4 is smaller than that of the embodiments of this application, the multi-way valve structure corresponding to Experiment 4 is more difficult to manufacture.

[0061] As shown in Table 2, as the value of α increases, the pressure drop of the fluid decreases after passing through the switching channel 21 and the first flow channel 11, meaning that increasing the value of α can reduce the flow resistance within the multi-way valve 100. As the value of β decreases, the pressure drop of the fluid decreases after passing through the switching channel 21 and the first flow channel 11, meaning that decreasing the value of β can reduce the flow resistance within the multi-way valve 100.

[0062] In the above technical solution, by setting the angle between the central axis of the first flow section of at least one first flow channel 11 and the central axis of the second flow section 1c to be α, 120°≤α≤130°, and the angle between the two side walls of the switching channel 21 on the cross section of the valve core 2 to be β, 115°≤β≤135°, both processing convenience and effective reduction of fluid flow resistance of the multi-way valve 100 can be taken into account.

[0063] Optionally, combined Figure 1 The multi-way valve 100 also includes a drive structure 4, which is located on one axial side of the valve core 2 and is connected to the valve core 2 in a transmission manner. The drive structure 4 can drive the valve core 2 to rotate relative to the housing 1 so as to realize the switching connection between the switching flow channel 21 and the flow channel.

[0064] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 3 The central axis of the second flow section 1c of the second flow channel 12 intersects perpendicularly with the rotation axis of the valve core 2, and the two first flow channels 11 are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the second flow section 1c of the second flow channel 12. Therefore, the symmetrical arrangement of the flow channels in the multi-way valve 100 simplifies its structural design. Furthermore, it effectively reduces the fluid flow resistance of the second flow channel 12, thereby reducing the fluid flow resistance of the multi-way valve 100.

[0065] For example, combining Figure 3The multi-way valve 100 includes two first flow channels 11 and one second flow channel 12. The central axis of the second flow section 1c of the second flow channel 12 intersects perpendicularly with the rotation axis of the valve core 2, meaning the second flow channel 12 is directly opposite the rotation axis of the valve core 2. The second flow channel 12 can be understood as a straight pipe structure. The two first flow channels 11 are located on both sides of the second flow channel 12 in the circumferential direction of the valve core 2 and are symmetrically arranged, meaning the included angle between the central axis of the first flow section of the two first flow channels 11 and the central axis of the second flow section 1c is equal. The two first flow channels 11 can be understood as bent pipe structures. Therefore, the symmetrical arrangement of the flow channels in the multi-way valve 100 simplifies its structural design.

[0066] In some embodiments of this application, the multi-way valve 100 also has a second state in which the first flow port 1a of the second flow channel 12 is fully connected to the switching flow channel 21, and the first flow port 1a of one of the two first flow channels 11 is fully connected to the switching flow channel 21. Thus, the multi-way valve 100 can switch between one of the first flow channels 11 and the second flow channel 12, allowing the multi-way valve 100 to have multiple connection states, enabling it to adapt to the needs of the thermal management system 200 or the vehicle 300.

[0067] For example, combining Figure 3 The multi-way valve 100 has two first flow channels 11 and one second flow channel 12, and the second flow channel 12 is located between the two first flow channels 11. In the second state, the valve core 2 rotates to a certain angle to switch the flow channel 21 to connect the first flow port 1a of one of the two first flow channels 11 and the flow port of the second flow channel 12. Alternatively, the valve core 2 rotates to a certain angle to switch the flow channel 21 to connect the first flow port 1a of the other of the two first flow channels 11 and the flow port of the second flow channel 12.

[0068] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the axial direction of valve core 2, the height of the switching channel 21 is h, 14mm ≤ h ≤ 18mm; and / or, in the radial direction of valve core 2, the depth of the switching channel 21 is d, 10mm ≤ d ≤ 12mm. Therefore, by setting the height of the switching channel 21 within a suitable range in the axial direction of valve core 2, the switching channel 21 can better cooperate with the flow channel, improving the stability of the connection between the switching channel 21 and the flow channel, and helping to reduce the flow resistance between the switching channel 21 and the flow channel. By setting the depth of the switching channel 21 within a suitable range in the radial direction of valve core 2, the fluid has suitable space to flow within the switching channel 21, which helps to improve the stability of the fluid flow within the switching channel 21.

[0069] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 3 and Figure 7 The multi-way valve 100 also includes at least one sealing element 3. The sealing element 3 includes a body 31, and the body 31 forms a clearance through hole 311. The clearance through hole 311 is connected to the first flow port 1a in a one-to-one correspondence. The sealing element 3 contacts the valve core 2 and the housing 1 respectively. Therefore, by setting the sealing element 3 between the valve core 2 and the housing 1, the sealing performance between the valve core 2 and the housing 1 can be improved, thereby improving the sealing performance between the switching flow channel 21 and the flow channel, and thus improving the stability of the switching connection of the multi-way valve 100.

[0070] For example, combining Figure 3 and Figure 7 The multi-way valve 100 has two first flow channels 11 and one second flow channel 12, with the first flow channels 11 located between the two first flow channels 11. The multi-way valve 100 includes two sealing elements 3, each sealing element 3 having a clearance through hole 311 formed on its body 31. The two sealing elements 3 are respectively located at the first flow opening of the corresponding first flow channel 11, and the clearance through hole 311 communicates with the corresponding first flow opening. Thus, the two sealing elements 3 can achieve a seal between the first flow opening of the first flow channel 11 and the valve core 2, and the two sealing elements 3, in combination, can achieve a seal between the first flow opening of the second flow channel 12 and the valve core 2, which simplifies the structural design of the multi-way valve 100. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the multi-way valve 100 includes one sealing element 3, the sealing element 3 having three clearance through holes 311 formed on its body 31, with the first flow openings of the two first flow channels 11 and the second flow channel 12 corresponding one-to-one with the clearance through holes 311.

[0071] It is evident that the number of clearance holes 311 can be less than the number of first flow ports 1a. For example, if there are three first flow ports 1a and two clearance holes 311, the two clearance holes 311 can be connected one-to-one with the two first flow ports 1a on both sides, thus achieving sealing at the three first flow ports 1a. It is understood that in this embodiment, multiple clearance holes 311 can be provided on one sealing element 3, or multiple clearance holes 311 can be provided on multiple sealing elements 3 to form multiple clearance holes 311.

[0072] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 7 The sealing element 3 also includes a sealing rib 32, which is disposed on at least one side of the thickness direction of the body 31. At least two sealing ribs 32 are provided on the outer side of the clearance through hole 311, and each sealing rib 32 is arranged around the corresponding clearance through hole 311.

[0073] Optionally, a sealing rib 32 is provided on the thickness side of the body 31 facing the housing 1 or the valve core 2. The sealing rib 32 protrudes from the surface of the body 31 on the corresponding thickness side. The sealing rib 32 can improve the sealing performance between the seal 3 and the housing 1, or between the seal 3 and the valve core 2. Alternatively, sealing ribs 32 are provided on both sides of the thickness of the body 31. The sealing ribs 32 can improve the sealing performance between the seal 3 and the housing 1, or between the seal 3 and the valve core 2, thereby improving the sealing performance between the housing 1 and the valve core 2.

[0074] For example, combining Figure 7 The main body 31 is provided with a sealing rib 32 on the side facing the housing 1, and two sealing ribs 32 are provided on the outer side of the clearance through hole 311. Each sealing rib 32 is arranged around the corresponding clearance through hole 311. Thus, the sealing rib 32 is in contact with the housing 1. When the seal 3 is under pressure, the sealing rib 32 will undergo elastic deformation, that is, the sealing rib 32 will be flattened. The sealing rib 32 is in close contact with the housing 1 to block fluid from passing through the gap between the seal 3 and the housing 1, thereby improving the sealing performance between the seal 3 and the housing 1.

[0075] It is evident that, compared to some technologies, excessive compression of the rubber seal increases the valve core's rotational torque and reduces its accuracy, increasing the load on the drive structure and output gear used to rotate the valve core, and reducing their lifespan. Conversely, insufficient compression of the rubber seal makes it difficult to effectively prevent liquid outflow under liquid pressure, easily leading to leakage. The solution described in this application can, to a certain extent, overcome the excessive deformation of the seal 3 during assembly and use, eliminating the need for the skeleton sealing ring used in related technologies to seal between the valve core and valve body, thus simplifying the structure.

[0076] Optionally, the shape of the sealing rib 32 is not limited. For example, the shape of the sealing rib 32 can be circular, elliptical, or polygonal.

[0077] In the above technical solution, by setting at least two spaced sealing ribs 32 on the outside of the avoidance through hole 311, the sealing area of ​​the sealing ribs 32 can be increased, that is, the sealing performance between the seal 3 and the housing 1, and / or between the seal 3 and the valve core 2 can be improved, thereby improving the sealing reliability of the seal 3.

[0078] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 7The sealing element 3 also includes at least one reinforcing rib 33, which connects two adjacent sealing ribs 32. Thus, the reinforcing rib 33 can improve the connection strength between two adjacent sealing ribs 32, meaning it can support the two adjacent sealing ribs 32, reducing the deformation of the sealing ribs 32 and improving their stability. This allows the sealing ribs 32 to maintain stable contact with the housing 1 or valve core 2, thereby improving the sealing performance of the sealing element 3 and giving it a better sealing effect.

[0079] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 7 The sealing rib 32 includes multiple sealing segments 321 connected end to end, the multiple sealing segments 321 forming a polygonal structure for the sealing rib 32. For example, combined with Figure 7 The sealing rib 32 includes four sealing segments 321 connected end to end, so that the sealing rib 32 forms a quadrilateral structure. Thus, the sealing rib 32 can have various structures so that it can meet the sealing requirements of the multi-way valve 100 and improve the applicability of the sealing element 3.

[0080] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 7 The sealing element 3 also includes multiple reinforcing ribs 33, with at least one reinforcing rib 33 disposed between two adjacent sealing segments 321, and the reinforcing rib 33 located in the middle of the corresponding sealing segment 321. Thus, the presence of at least one reinforcing rib 33 between two adjacent sealing segments 321 improves the stability of the two adjacent sealing segments 321, minimizing the deformation of the sealing segments 321 and enhancing the sealing reliability of the sealing ribs 32. Furthermore, the placement of the reinforcing rib 33 in the middle of the corresponding sealing segment 321 effectively supports the middle of the sealing segment 321, effectively reducing deformation and thus improving the structural stability of the sealing segment 321.

[0081] It is understandable that the reinforcing rib 33 is located in the middle of the corresponding sealing section 321. The reinforcing rib 33 can support the position of the sealing section 321 that is most prone to deformation, and can reduce the deformation of the middle of the sealing section 321. This can, to a certain extent, prevent the sealing failure between the sealing element 3 and the housing 1, or between the sealing element 3 and the valve core 2, due to excessive deformation of the sealing section 321.

[0082] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 3 and Figure 4The housing 1 has a limiting groove 13, and a first flow port 1a is formed on the bottom wall of the limiting groove 13. The sealing member 3 is disposed in the limiting groove 13, and the sealing member 3 is in a stop-fitting engagement with the side wall of the limiting groove 13. Thus, the limiting groove 13 can restrict the movement of the sealing member 3, reduce the risk of the sealing member 3 falling off, improve the connection stability between the sealing member 3 and the housing 1, and improve the sealing effect of the sealing member 3.

[0083] Optionally, the sidewall of the limiting groove 13 forms a limiting groove, and the sealing element 3 forms a limiting protrusion. The limiting protrusion cooperates with the limiting groove to connect the sealing element 3 and the housing 1 as a whole, which can further improve the connection stability between the sealing element 3 and the housing 1. For example, combined with Figure 3 and Figure 4 The sealing element 3 can be inserted into the limiting groove 13 from one side, and the limiting protrusion of the sealing element 3 abuts against the limiting groove to make the sealing element 3 stably disposed on the housing 1. Of course, the side wall of the limiting groove 13 may not have a limiting groove, and the sealing element 3 abuts against the side wall of the limiting groove 13.

[0084] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 8 A guide surface 3a is formed on the side of the seal 3 facing the housing 1. The guide surface 3a is used to guide the seal 3 into the limiting groove 13. Thus, the guide surface 3a can guide the seal 3 to fit into the limiting groove 13, improving the accuracy of the fit between the seal 3 and the limiting groove 13 and reducing damage to the seal 3 during assembly. Exemplarily, the seal 3 has multiple sides that are generally polygonal, and at least one of the sides forms a point surface 3a.

[0085] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 8 The seal 3 also includes a wear-resistant portion 34, which is located on the thickness side of the body 31 facing the valve core 2. Therefore, the wear-resistant portion 34 can reduce the wear of the valve core 2 on the body 31 during rotation, thus protecting the seal 3 and extending its service life.

[0086] Optionally, the wear-resistant part 34 is made of a material with a low coefficient of friction and wear resistance, such as a fluoroplastic film or polytetrafluoroethylene. This makes the wear-resistant part 34 wear-resistant and has a low coefficient of friction, thereby reducing the wear of the valve core 2 on the body 31 during rotation and reducing the friction between the seal 3 and the valve core 2. This provides lubrication between the seal 3 and the valve core 2, extending the service life of the seal 3. At the same time, it keeps the torque of the valve core 2 within a small range.

[0087] Of course, the material of the wear-resistant part 34 can also be any material that meets the performance requirements, and there are no restrictions here.

[0088] In other embodiments, the wear-resistant part 34 is configured as a coating film, which can be a fluoroplastic film, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, so that the coating film has wear-resistant and lubricating properties, which is beneficial to improving its friction and wear performance.

[0089] For example, in actual production, the side of the coating film facing the body 31 is chemically treated, and the side of the body 31 facing the coating film is chemically treated. Then, the coating film and the body 31 are assembled and injection molded so that the shape of the coating film and the body 31 are the same. Then, the coating film is stamped by a stamping tool so that a through hole corresponding to the clearance through hole 311 of the body 31 is formed on the coating film.

[0090] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a thermal management system 200, including a multi-way valve 100 according to the first aspect embodiment of the present invention described above.

[0091] In the above technical solution, the performance of the thermal management system 200 can be improved by using the multi-way valve 100.

[0092] Optionally, the thermal management system 200 also includes a flange and a thermal management module. The flange is located between the housing 1 and the thermal management module, and the flange forms a connection port corresponding to the second flow port 1b. Thus, each flow channel is connected to the corresponding connection port, and the valve core 2 rotates to control the switching flow channel 21 to switch the connection, thereby controlling the thermal management system 200 to switch modes.

[0093] It should be noted that the thermal management system 200 can be applied to vehicles 300, as well as to household air conditioners, central air conditioners, and any equipment with a thermal management system 200. The application of the thermal management system 200 does not limit this utility model.

[0094] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a vehicle 300, including a thermal management system 200 according to the second aspect of the present invention described above.

[0095] In the above technical solution, the performance of the vehicle 300 can be improved by adopting the thermal management system 200.

[0096] Optionally, vehicle 300 can be a new energy vehicle. In some embodiments, the new energy vehicle can be a pure electric vehicle with an electric motor as the main driving force, or it can be a hybrid vehicle with both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor as the main driving force. Regarding the internal combustion engine and electric motor mentioned in the above embodiments that provide driving power for the new energy vehicle, the internal combustion engine can use gasoline, diesel, hydrogen, etc. as fuel, and the way to provide electrical energy to the electric motor can be a power battery, hydrogen fuel cell, etc., without special limitations. It should be noted that this is merely an exemplary description of the structure of new energy vehicles, etc., and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0097] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Furthermore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0098] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0099] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0100] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-way valve characterized by comprising: include: The housing has a plurality of spaced-apart flow channels, including a first flow channel and a second flow channel. One of the first flow channel and the second flow channel is a liquid inlet channel and the other is a liquid outlet channel. Each flow channel has a first flow port and a second flow port. The first flow port is formed on the inner side of the housing and the second flow port is formed on the outer side of the housing. A valve core is rotatably disposed within the housing. The valve core has at least one switching flow channel. A first flow channel and a second flow channel are sequentially arranged along the circumference of the valve core, and the second flow channel is located between the two first flow channels. The multi-way valve has a first state in which the first flow port of the second flow channel is fully connected to the switching flow channel, and the first flow ports of the two first flow channels are partially connected to the switching flow channel. Each of the first flow channels includes a first flow segment and a second flow segment that are bent and connected. The end of the first flow segment away from the second flow segment forms the first flow port, and the end of the second flow segment away from the first flow segment forms the second flow port. The angle between the central axis of the first flow segment and the central axis of the second flow segment of at least one first flow channel is α, where 120°≤α≤130°. The angle between the two side walls of the switching flow channel on the cross-section of the valve core is β, where 115°≤β≤135°.

2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized by The central axis of the second flow section of the second flow channel intersects perpendicularly with the rotation axis of the valve core, and the two first flow channels are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the second flow section of the second flow channel.

3. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, wherein The multi-way valve also has a second state in which the first flow port of the second flow channel is fully connected to the switching flow channel, and the first flow port of one of the two first flow channels is fully connected to the switching flow channel.

4. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the axial direction of the valve core, the height of the switching flow channel is h, 14mm ≤ h ≤ 18mm; and / or, In the radial direction of the valve core, the depth of the switching flow channel is d, 10mm≤d≤12mm.

5. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that It also includes at least one sealing element, the sealing element comprising a body, the body having a clearance through hole, the clearance through hole corresponding to and communicating with the first flow port, the sealing element contacting the valve core and the housing respectively.

6. The multiple port valve of claim 5, wherein, The sealing element further includes sealing ribs, which are disposed on at least one side of the thickness direction of the body. At least two sealing ribs are provided on the outer side of the clearance through hole, and each sealing rib is arranged around the corresponding clearance through hole.

7. The multiple way valve of claim 6, wherein, The seal also includes at least one reinforcing rib, which connects two adjacent sealing ribs.

8. The multiple port valve of claim 6, wherein, The sealing rib includes multiple sealing segments connected end to end, and the multiple sealing segments make the sealing rib form a polygonal structure.

9. The multiple way valve of claim 8, wherein, The sealing member further comprises a plurality of reinforcing ribs, at least one of the reinforcing ribs is arranged between two adjacent sealing segments, and the reinforcing rib is arranged at a middle portion of the corresponding sealing segment.

10. The multi-way valve according to claim 5, wherein The housing forms a limiting groove, the first flow passage is formed on a bottom wall of the limiting groove, the sealing member is arranged in the limiting groove, and the sealing member is in abutting engagement with a groove side wall of the limiting groove.

11. The multiple way valve of claim 10, wherein, A guide surface is formed on a side of the sealing member facing the housing, and the guide surface is used to guide the sealing member into the limiting groove.

12. A thermal management system characterized by, A multi-way valve comprising any one of the claims 1-11.

13. A vehicle characterized by comprising: A thermal management system comprising the claim 12.

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