Multi-way valve and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of multi-way valve and vehicle, it is related to vehicle component technical field.The utility model's multi-way valve includes valve body and valve core, valve body is provided with multiple first passageway being set along the circumference of valve core;Valve core is located in valve body, valve core includes the first layer structure and second layer structure being distributed along its axial direction, valve core is defined with at least part in the first layer structure First flow channel, and at least part in the second layer structure Second flow channel;Wherein, valve core is configured as: driven relatively valve body rotation, to make first flow channel connect two first passageway, and / or, second flow channel connect two first passageway.The multi-way valve structure is more simple, with good stability and longer service life.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] As the energy efficiency of thermal management systems continues to improve, the architecture of these systems becomes increasingly complex in order to achieve higher system energy efficiency, leading to more complex cooling loop designs. For example, in the field of new energy vehicles, to improve the driving range of electric vehicles, it is necessary to implement multiple modes such as cooling the battery with a coolant electric heater, dissipating heat between the battery and the drive system through a radiator, and using waste heat from the drive system to heat the battery.

[0003] Multi-way valves are typically required in thermal management systems to switch between multiple thermal management modes. However, existing multi-way valves often consist of multiple valve cores, each defining a flow path and cooperating with the valve body to achieve flow between different paths. This type of multi-way valve with multiple valve cores has a complex structure, and the multiple valve cores are prone to interference or influence, resulting in a high failure rate and short service life. Utility Model Content

[0004] 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 with a simpler structure, better stability, and a longer service life.

[0005] This utility model also proposes a vehicle having the above-mentioned multi-way valve.

[0006] The multi-way valve according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention includes a valve body and a valve core:

[0007] The valve body is provided with a plurality of first channels arranged circumferentially along the valve core;

[0008] The valve core is located in the valve body, and the valve core includes a first layer structure and a second layer structure distributed along its axial direction. The valve core defines a first flow channel at least partially located in the first layer structure and a second flow channel at least partially located in the second layer structure.

[0009] The valve core is configured to be driven to rotate relative to the valve body, such that the first flow channel connects to two first channels, and / or the second flow channel connects to two first channels.

[0010] The multi-way valve according to the embodiments of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0011] The multi-way valve of this application employs a layered, staggered arrangement of the first and second flow channels within the valve core. This allows for multiple flow channels within a single valve core, enhancing the valve's connectivity and enabling it to manage multiple flow paths. This reduces the number of multi-way valves required, lowers the manufacturing cost of the thermal management system, and shrinks its size, contributing to vehicle weight reduction and integration. Furthermore, because the multi-way valve manages multiple flow paths through a single valve core, its structure is simpler and its operation more reliable. Compared to valve structures with multiple valve cores, it offers more stable operation and a longer service life.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outer periphery of the valve core is defined by a plurality of water inlets, wherein the water inlets defined by the two ends of the first flow channel on the outer periphery of the valve core are designated as first water inlets, and the water inlets defined by the two ends of the second flow channel on the outer periphery of the valve core are designated as second water inlets. Each first water inlet and each second water inlet are located in the first layer structure, or are located in the second layer structure.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, each of the first water inlets and each of the second water inlets are located on the first layer structure; the second flow channel includes two first sections disposed in the first layer structure and one second section disposed in the second layer structure, and the two ends of the second section are respectively connected to the second water inlet through one of the first sections.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outer peripheral wall of the valve core defines a plurality of water passages, wherein the water passages defined by the two ends of the first flow channel on the outer peripheral wall of the valve core are designated as first water passages, the water passages defined by the two ends of the second flow channel on the outer peripheral wall of the valve core are designated as second water passages, a sealing portion is defined between adjacent water passages, at least a portion of the first channel forms a first channel opening on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body, the arc length of the first channel opening is less than the arc length of the sealing portion, and the valve core is configured to be able to rotate to the sealing portion to close the first channel opening.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a portion of the first channel forms a first channel opening on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body, and the remaining first channels form a second channel opening on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body, wherein the arc length of the second channel opening is greater than the arc length of the sealing portion.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the inner peripheral wall of the valve body forms two first channel openings, which are arranged adjacent to each other. When one of the first channel openings is connected to any of the first water inlets or the second water inlets, the other first channel opening is closed by the sealing part.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the valve body includes a first main body and a first end cap located at one end of the first main body. The first end cap defines a second channel, and the valve core defines a third flow channel. One end of the third flow channel communicates with the second channel, and the other end defines a third water outlet on the outer peripheral wall of the valve core.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the second layer structure is disposed close to the first end cap, the third flow channel is located in the second layer structure, the third flow channel includes a third segment extending axially along the valve core and a fourth segment extending radially along the valve core, the fourth segment defining the third water outlet on the outer peripheral wall of the second layer structure.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the multi-way valve further includes a sealing element located between the valve core and the valve body. The inner peripheral wall of the valve body is provided with at least one set of anti-rotation structures, which abut against the sealing element to restrict the relative rotation between the sealing element and the valve body.

[0020] The vehicle according to a second aspect of the present invention includes the multi-way valve mentioned in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0021] 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

[0022] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, wherein:

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the multi-way valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the multi-way valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a bottom schematic diagram of the multi-way valve according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the valve core structure according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0027] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the cross section along the AA direction;

[0028] Figure 6 for Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the cross section along the BB direction;

[0029] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of the multi-way valve according to another perspective of an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0030] Figure 8 for Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the cross section along the CC direction;

[0031] Figure 9 for Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the cross section along the DD direction;

[0032] Figure 10 This is a half-sectional schematic diagram of the multi-way valve according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0033] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the valve body according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0034] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the valve body and the seal in an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0035] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve in the first mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve in the second mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve in the third mode according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0038] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve in the fourth mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve in the fifth mode according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the sixth mode of the multi-way valve according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure label:

[0042] Valve body 100; First main body 110; First channel 111; First channel opening 112; Second channel opening 113; First valve port 114; Third channel opening 115; First end cap 120; Second channel 121; Second valve port 122; Anti-rotation structure 130; Buckle 131; Snap-fit ​​groove 132;

[0043] Valve core 200; First water inlet 201; Second water inlet 202; Third water inlet 203; Sealing part 204; Fourth water inlet 205; First layer structure 210; First flow channel 211; Second layer structure 220; Second flow channel 221; First section 2111; Second section 2112; Third flow channel 222; Third section 2221; Fourth section 2222; Second main body 230; First partition 240; Second partition 250; Third partition 260;

[0044] Seal 300;

[0045] End cap sealing ring 400; second end cap 500; actuator 600; Detailed Implementation

[0046] 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.

[0047] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the directional descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., indicate the directional or positional relationship based on the directional or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They 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. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0048] In the description of this utility model, "several" means one or more, "multiple" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. The use of "first" and "second" in the description is merely for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.

[0049] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly defined, terms such as "setting," "installation," and "connection" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model in conjunction with the specific content of the technical solution.

[0050] In the description of this utility model, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this utility model. 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.

[0051] As the energy efficiency of thermal management systems continues to improve, the architecture of these systems becomes increasingly complex in order to achieve higher system energy efficiency, leading to more complex cooling loop designs. For example, in the field of new energy vehicles, to improve the driving range of electric vehicles, it is necessary to implement multiple modes such as cooling the battery with a coolant electric heater, dissipating heat between the battery and the drive system through a radiator, and using waste heat from the drive system to heat the battery.

[0052] Multi-way valves are typically required in thermal management systems to switch between multiple thermal management modes. However, existing multi-way valves often consist of multiple valve cores, each defining a flow path and cooperating with the valve body to achieve flow between different paths. This type of multi-way valve with multiple valve cores has a complex structure, and the multiple valve cores are prone to interference or influence, resulting in a high failure rate and short service life.

[0053] To address the aforementioned problems, this application proposes a multi-way valve with only one valve core 200. By designing flow channels in layers on the valve core 200, multiple flow channels can be designed within a single valve core 200, thereby providing greater pipeline control capabilities. Specifically, the multi-way valve includes a valve body 100 and a valve core 200, as shown below. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the valve body 100 has a hollow structure with an open end along its axial direction to facilitate the installation of the valve core 200 into the valve body 100. The other end has a first end cap 120 to restrict the movement of the valve core 200. The first end cap 120 can be as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 A portion of the valve body 100 shown is integrally formed with the valve body 100, or the first end cap 120 is a component independent of the valve body 100, which can be connected to the valve body 100 to limit the valve core 200.

[0054] The valve body 100 is provided with a plurality of first channels 111 arranged circumferentially along the valve core 200. In such a way... Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the first channel 111 extends axially along the valve body 100, and one end of the first channel 111 defines a channel opening on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 100 (see reference). Figure 11The first channel 111 has a first channel 112, a second channel 113, and a third channel 115, and the other end extends axially along the valve body 100 to the first end cap 120 to form a first valve port 114. In some other embodiments (not shown in the figures), the first channel 111 may also extend radially along the valve body 100, such that one end of the first channel 111 defines a channel opening on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 100, and the other end extends to the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 100 to form the first valve port 114.

[0055] For example, every two first channels 111 form a group, and the valve body 100 can be provided with multiple groups of first channels 111. It is understood that the first channels 111 can be connected to external pipes. For instance, one first channel 111 in one group can be connected to the outlet port of the battery coolant, and another first channel 111 can be connected to the inlet port of the battery coolant; one first channel 111 in another group can be connected to the outlet port of the radiator coolant, and another first channel 111 can be connected to the inlet port of the radiator coolant, and so on. The connection objects of each first channel 111 can be determined according to the design concept of the thermal management system, and will not be described in detail here.

[0056] The valve core 200 is located within the valve body 100. It should be noted that the valve core 200 in this design has a multi-layered structure, such as... Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the structure includes at least a first layer structure 210 and a second layer structure 220 axially distributed with a valve core 200. The valve core 200 defines a first flow channel 211 and a second flow channel 221. The first flow channel 211 is at least partially located in the first layer structure 210, and the second flow channel 221 is at least partially located in the second layer structure 220.

[0057] Specifically, in order to arrange multiple flow channels in a single valve core 200, the valve core 200 is layered so that the first flow channel 211 and the second flow channel 221 are spatially staggered. In such a way... Figures 4 to 6In the embodiment shown, the valve core 200 includes two first flow channels 211 and two second flow channels 221. The two first flow channels 211 are arc-shaped and are both disposed in the first layer structure 210. They are not connected to each other. The two ends of the first flow channels 211 respectively form two first water inlets 201 on the outer peripheral wall of the first layer structure 210, and the two first flow channels 211 form a total of four first water inlets 201. A part of the second flow channel 221 is disposed in the second layer structure 220 and is arranged parallel to the first flow channels 211. The two ends of the second flow channel 221 extend into the first layer structure 210 and penetrate the outer peripheral wall of the first layer structure 210 to form second water inlets 202. The two second flow channels 221 form a total of four second water inlets 202. In some other embodiments (not shown in the figures), the first flow channel 211 is entirely disposed in the first layer structure 210, and the second flow channel 221 is entirely disposed in the second layer structure 220; or (not shown in the figures), a portion of the first flow channel 211 is located in the first layer structure 210, and both ends extend into the second layer structure 220, and the second flow channel 221 is entirely disposed in the second layer structure 220.

[0058] The valve core 200 is provided with a part for connection with the actuator 600, such as... Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the top of the valve core 200 is provided with a spline structure, which can be connected to the output shaft of the actuator 600 so that the actuator 600 drives the valve core 200 to rotate. In the vehicle's thermal management system, the actuator 600 can be a motor, which, upon receiving a mode switching command from the vehicle controller, drives the valve core 200 to rotate so that the first flow channel 211 connects to the two first channels 111 through the first water inlet 201, and / or, the second flow channel 221 connects to the two first channels 111 through the second water inlet 202.

[0059] It should be noted that the multi-way valve has multiple modes. Different rotation angles of the valve core 200 within the valve body 100 correspond to different modes, with the first channels 111 connected in pairs. Since the valve core 200 has multiple first flow channels 211 and second flow channels 221, the connectivity of these channels varies depending on the mode. For example, in some modes, all first channels 111 are connected through first flow channels 211, while all second flow channels 221 are closed; or, in other modes, all first channels 111 are connected through second flow channels 221, while all first flow channels 211 are closed; or, in still other modes, some first channels 111 are connected through first flow channels 211, and some first channels 111 are connected through second flow channels 221 (see reference). Figures 7 to 9 By designing the positions of each water inlet and channel opening, the connectivity between different flow channels can be altered.

[0060] Based on the above, the multi-way valve of this application, through the layered and staggered arrangement of the first flow channel 211 and the second flow channel 221 within the valve core 200, allows multiple flow channels to be configured within a single valve core 200, thereby enhancing the connectivity of the multi-way valve. This enables a single multi-way valve to control multiple pipelines, reducing the number of multi-way valves required, lowering the manufacturing cost of the thermal management system, and shrinking its size, which is beneficial for vehicle lightweighting and integration. Furthermore, since the multi-way valve of this application achieves control of multiple pipelines through a single valve core 200, its structure is relatively simple and its operation is more reliable. Compared to valve structures with multiple valve cores 200, it exhibits more stable operation and a longer service life.

[0061] In some embodiments, the outer periphery of the valve core 200 is provided with a plurality of water passages, which communicate with the flow channels in the valve core 200. For ease of description, the water passages defined by the two ends of the first flow channel 211 on the outer periphery of the valve core 200 are designated as first water passages 201, and the water passages defined by the two ends of the second flow channel 221 on the outer periphery of the valve core 200 are designated as second water passages 202. Each first water passage 201 and each second water passage 202 is located on the same layer structure, that is, each first water passage 201 and each second water passage 202 is located on the first layer structure 210, or each first water passage 201 and each second water passage 202 is located on the second layer structure 220. Thus, the various channel openings communicating with the water passages are also located on the same layer structure. This unified water passage design is beneficial to the manufacturing of the valve core 200 and the valve body 100, and also facilitates designers in designing the on / off relationships of various water passages and channel openings under different modes.

[0062] Furthermore, in such Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first layer structure 210 is positioned further away from the first end cap 120 than the second layer structure 220. Each first inlet 201 and each second inlet 202 are located within the first layer structure 210. Consequently, the second flow channel 221 is partially located within the second layer structure 220, with both ends extending into the first layer structure 210. Specifically, the second flow channel 221 includes two first segments 2111 (shown in the first layer structure 210). Figure 5 (in the middle) and a second paragraph 2112 (shown in the middle) Figure 4 In the middle, the first segment 2111 is located in the first layer structure 210, and the second segment 2112 is located in the second layer structure 220. The two ends of the second segment 2112 are respectively connected to one of the first segments 2111.

[0063] It is understandable that, such as Figure 10As shown, the valve core 200 includes a tubular second main body 230 and three partitions disposed within the second main body 230, the three partitions being arranged in parallel. For ease of description, they are respectively named the first partition 240, the second partition 250, and the third partition 260. The first partition 240 and the second partition 250 constitute a first layer structure 210, and the second partition 250 and the third partition 260 define a second layer structure 220. The second main body 230, the first partition 240, and the second partition 250 are integrally injection molded. Due to limitations in the injection molding process, the third partition 260 cannot be integrally injection molded with the second main body 230. Therefore, after the third partition 260 is injection molded separately, it is welded to the second main body 230 or connected and fixed by other means, thus the third partition 260 and the second partition 250 constitute the second layer structure 220.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the outer peripheral wall of the valve core 200 defines a plurality of water passages, each water passage being evenly distributed along the circumference of the valve core 200, and the water passages being spaced apart, thereby forming a sealing portion 204 on the outer peripheral wall between adjacent water passages. At least a portion of the first channel 111 forms a first channel opening 112 on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 100, as shown. Figure 8 As shown, the arc length of the first channel opening 112 is less than the arc length of the blocking part 204, so when the blocking part 204 rotates to the position of the first channel opening 112, the flow path of the first channel 111 corresponding to the first channel opening 112 is cut off.

[0065] It should be noted that in some multi-way valve structures (not shown in the figure), the arc length of each channel port is greater than the arc length of the sealing part 204. The rotation of the valve core 200 will only change the connection relationship between the first channels 111, but will not cause the first channels 111 to close. For example, a multi-way valve has multiple first channels 111, named channel 1, channel 2, channel 3, channel 4, etc. In the initial mode, channel 1 is connected to channel 2, and channel 3 is connected to channel 4. When the valve core 200 rotates to the next position, channel 1 is connected to channel 3, and channel 2 is connected to channel 4. If the first channel port 112 of this embodiment is provided, the first channel port 112 can be closed by the sealing part 204. Therefore, after the valve core 200 rotates to the next position, there may be a situation where channel 1 is connected to channel 3, and channels 2 and 4 are both closed by the sealing part 204.

[0066] like Figure 8 and Figure 11In the illustrated embodiment, two adjacent first channel ports 112 on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 100 are used as an example. When any water inlet on the valve core 200 is connected to one of the first channel ports 112, the sealing part 204 adjacent to that water inlet closes the other first channel port 112. Thus, in the application of the thermal management system, these two first channel ports 112 can be used in a pipeline design where one can be connected at a time. For example, if component A has two coolant inlets, B and C, and coolant is introduced either through inlet B or through inlet C, then inlet B can be connected to one of the first channel ports 112, and inlet C can be connected to the other first channel port 112.

[0067] Furthermore, based on the foregoing, such as Figure 8 and Figure 11 As shown, a portion of the first channel 111 forms a first channel opening 112 on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 100, while the remaining first channels 111 form a second channel opening 113 on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 100. The arc length of the second channel opening 113 is greater than the arc length of the sealing portion 204, thus preventing the second channel opening 113 from failing to open due to the valve core 200 not being in position. Therefore, in this embodiment of the application, as shown... Figure 13 and Figure 18 As shown in the example, the valve body 100 is provided with 9 first channels 111, which are named channel 1 to channel 9 respectively. The channel openings of channel 7 and channel 9 are set as first channel openings 112, and the channel openings of the remaining channels are set as second channel openings 113. Thus, channel 7 and channel 9 can be opened and the other closed. Although the connection relationship of the remaining channel openings can be changed with the rotation of valve core 200, they are always in the normally open state.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the valve body 100 includes a first main body 110 and a first end cap 120. The first end cap 120 defines a second channel 121. The valve core 200 defines a third flow channel 222 for communicating with the second channel 121. One end of the third flow channel 222 communicates with the second channel 121, and the other end defines a third water outlet 203 on the outer peripheral wall of the valve core 200. Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the second channel 121 is located at the axial position of the first end cap 120, and the third flow channel 222 is used to communicate with the fourth water outlet 205 (shown in the figure). Figure 6The third flow channel 222 is positioned along the axis of the valve core 200, ensuring that the valve core 200 remains connected to the second channel 121 regardless of its rotation angle. In other embodiments (not shown in the figures), the second channel 121 may be eccentrically positioned, with the corresponding third flow channel 222 eccentrically positioned to connect with the fourth water outlet 205, thus ensuring that the third flow channel 222 only connects to the second channel 121 when the valve core 200 rotates to a specific angle.

[0069] It should be noted that in the aforementioned embodiments, the first channels were all connected in pairs. In this embodiment, the third flow channel 222 provides a three-way mode for the multi-way valve, so as to... Figure 13 As shown in the example, at this angle, channel 1 and channel 2 are connected, and channel 10 is connected to channel 1, thus connecting channels 1, 2, and 10.

[0070] In such Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, a first channel 111 surrounds the valve core 200. A portion of the first channel 111 is located on the first main body 110, while another portion extends axially along the valve core 200 to the first end cap 120, forming a first valve port 114 at the edge of the first end cap 120. Each first valve port 114 is evenly distributed circumferentially around the first end cap 120. A second channel 121 forms a second valve port 122 on the first end cap 120, located at the center of the first end cap 120. Each first valve port 114 is arranged around the second valve port 122. Thus, the multi-way valve can connect to an external pipeline at the first end cap 120. Furthermore, since the second valve port 122 is located in the middle of each first valve port 114, the space utilization of the first end cap 120 is further improved, enhancing the connection capability between the first end cap 120 and the external pipeline.

[0071] Furthermore, the second layer structure 220 is disposed close to the first end cap 120, and the third flow channel 222 is formed in the second layer structure 220. For example... Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the third flow channel 222 includes a third segment 2221 extending axially along the valve core 200 and a fourth segment 2222 extending radially along the valve core 200. The fourth segment 2222 defines a third water inlet 203 on the outer peripheral wall of the second layer structure 220. Thus, the outer peripheral wall of the first layer structure 210 defines a first water inlet 201 and a second water inlet 202, and the outer peripheral wall of the second layer structure 220 defines a third water inlet 203. Setting the third water inlet 203 independently from the first water inlet 201 and the second water inlet 202 facilitates the separate design of the opening and closing of the third flow channel 222.

[0072] Furthermore, such as Figure 4As shown, the projection area of ​​the third water inlet 203 along the axial direction of the valve core 200 at least partially overlaps with the projection area of ​​any of the first water inlets 201, or the projection area of ​​the third water inlet 203 at least partially overlaps with the projection area of ​​any of the second water inlets 202. Figure 4 As shown, each of the first channels 111 has a first channel opening 112 or a second channel opening 113 at one end of the corresponding position of the first layer structure 210. One of the first channels 111 also has a third channel opening 115 at the position corresponding to the second layer structure 220. When the valve core 200 rotates to the point where the third water inlet 203 connects with the third channel opening 115, the first channel 111, in addition to connecting with the third flow channel 222 through the third channel opening 115, also connects with the first flow channel 211 or the second flow channel 221 through the second channel opening 113, forming a three-way structure.

[0073] It is understood that the third flow channel 222 may also include multiple fourth segments 2222 connected to the same third segment 2221. Each fourth segment 2222 defines a third water inlet 203, so that the outer peripheral wall of the second layer structure 220 has multiple third water inlets 203. The valve body 100 is provided with multiple third channel ports 115. Thus, when the valve core 200 rotates to a specific angle, each third channel port 115 can connect with the corresponding third water inlet 203, so that the multi-way valve has four-way, five-way and other modes.

[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 12 As shown, the multi-way valve also includes a seal 300, which is located between the valve core 200 and the valve body 100 and is fixedly connected to the valve body 100. The seal 300 is made of a soft material and can abut against both the valve core 200 and the valve body 100 to prevent water leakage. The seal 300 has through holes corresponding to each passage opening to facilitate communication between the passage opening and the water inlet. Additionally, as... Figure 12 As shown, the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 100 is provided with at least one set of anti-rotation structure 130, which abuts against the sealing element 300 to restrict the relative rotation between the sealing element 300 and the valve body 100.

[0075] More specifically, each anti-rotation structure 130 includes two oppositely arranged snap fasteners 131, the snap fasteners 131 defining snap-fit ​​grooves 132, the seal 300 is arranged around the valve core 200, and the two ends of the seal 300 are respectively inserted into the two snap-fit ​​grooves 132 to complete the fixation of the seal 300 and the valve body 100.

[0076] like Figure 3In the illustrated embodiment, the multi-way valve further includes an end cap sealing ring 400 and a second end cap 500. The end cap sealing ring 400 is connected to the first end cap 120 and can provide a seal when connected to an external pipeline. The first end cap 120 and the second end cap 500 are respectively provided at both axial ends of the first main body 110 to confine the valve core 200 within the valve body 100.

[0077] Based on such Figure 13 As for Figure 18 The illustrated embodiment provides a detailed description of various modes of the multi-way valve in this application. The multi-way valve has a first layer structure 210 and a second layer structure 220. The first layer structure 210 has two first flow channels 211, and the second layer structure 220 has two second flow channels 221 and one third flow channel 222. The outer peripheral wall of the first layer structure 210 has eight water inlets, spaced 45° apart. The inner peripheral wall of the valve body 100 has nine first channels 111 (named channels 1 to 9), with channels 7 and 9 adjacent and having a first channel opening 112. The remaining channels have second channel openings 113. The first end cap 120 has one second channel 121 (named channel 10), for a total of ten channels for connecting to external pipelines. The multi-way valve can switch the connection relationship once with each 22.5° rotation, and has the following connection modes, which should be noted:

[0078] Mode 1: Valve core 200 is in the initial state, channel 1 is connected to channel 2, channel 3 is connected to channel 4, channel 5 is connected to channel 6, channel 7 is connected to channel 8, channel 9 is closed, and channel 10 is connected to channel 1.

[0079] Mode 2: Rotate valve core 200 clockwise 135°, connecting channel 1 with channel 2, channel 3 with channel 4, channel 5 with channel 7, channel 8 with channel 6, closing channel 9, and closing channel 10.

[0080] Mode 3: Rotate valve core 200 clockwise 157.5° to connect channel 1 with channel 2, channel 3 with channel 4, channel 5 with channel 9, channel 8 with channel 6, and close channel 7 and channel 10.

[0081] Mode 4: Rotate valve core 200 clockwise 270°, channel 1 connects to channel 3, channel 2 connects to channel 4, channel 5 connects to channel 7, channel 8 connects to channel 6, channel 9 is closed, and channel 10 is closed.

[0082] Mode 5: Rotate valve core 200 clockwise 112.5°, channel 1 connects with channel 3, channel 2 connects with channel 4, channel 5 connects with channel 9, channel 8 connects with channel 6, channel 7 is closed, and channel 10 is closed.

[0083] Mode 6: Rotate valve core 200 clockwise 22.5° to connect channel 1 with channel 2, channel 3 with channel 4, channel 5 with channel 6, channel 8 with channel 9, and close channel 7 and channel 10.

[0084] The second aspect of this application also proposes a vehicle that includes the multi-way valve mentioned in any of the foregoing embodiments. It should be noted that the vehicle can be a private car, such as a sedan, SUV, MPV, or pickup truck. The vehicle can also be a commercial vehicle, such as a van, bus, small truck, or large trailer. The vehicle can be a gasoline-powered vehicle or a new energy vehicle. When the vehicle is a new energy vehicle, it can be a hybrid vehicle or a pure electric vehicle. Since the vehicle in this aspect of the embodiment includes the multi-way valve of the foregoing embodiments, it has the beneficial effects described in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0085] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art, various changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the embodiments of the present invention and the features thereof can be combined with each other unless otherwise specified.

Claims

1. A multi-way valve, characterized in that, Including valve body and valve core: The valve body is provided with a plurality of first channels arranged circumferentially along the valve core; The valve core is located in the valve body, and the valve core includes a first layer structure and a second layer structure distributed along its axial direction. The valve core defines a first flow channel at least partially located in the first layer structure and a second flow channel at least partially located in the second layer structure. The valve core is configured to be driven to rotate relative to the valve body, such that the first flow channel connects to two first channels, and / or the second flow channel connects to two first channels.

2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer periphery of the valve core defines a plurality of water inlets. The water inlets defined by the two ends of the first flow channel on the outer periphery of the valve core are designated as first water inlets, and the water inlets defined by the two ends of the second flow channel on the outer periphery of the valve core are designated as second water inlets. Each first water inlet and each second water inlet is located in the first layer structure or in the second layer structure.

3. The multi-way valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, Each of the first water inlets and each of the second water inlets are located on the first layer structure; the second flow channel includes two first sections disposed in the first layer structure and one second section disposed in the second layer structure, with the two ends of the second section respectively connected to the second water inlet through one of the first sections.

4. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the valve core defines a plurality of water passages. The water passages defined by the two ends of the first flow channel on the outer peripheral wall of the valve core are designated as first water passages, and the water passages defined by the two ends of the second flow channel on the outer peripheral wall of the valve core are designated as second water passages. A sealing portion is defined between adjacent water passages. At least a portion of the first channel forms a first channel opening on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body. The arc length of the first channel opening is smaller than the arc length of the sealing portion. The valve core is configured to be able to rotate to the sealing portion to close the first channel opening.

5. The multi-way valve according to claim 4, characterized in that, A portion of the first channel forms a first channel opening on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body, and the remaining first channels form a second channel opening on the inner peripheral wall of the valve body, wherein the arc length of the second channel opening is greater than the arc length of the sealing portion.

6. The multi-way valve according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner peripheral wall of the valve body forms two first channel openings, which are arranged adjacent to each other. When one of the first channel openings is connected to either the first water inlet or the second water inlet, the other first channel opening is closed by the sealing part.

7. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve body includes a first main body and a first end cap located at one end of the first main body. The first end cap defines a second channel, and the valve core defines a third flow channel. One end of the third flow channel communicates with the second channel, and the other end defines a third water outlet on the outer peripheral wall of the valve core.

8. The multi-way valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second layer structure is disposed close to the first end cap, and the third flow channel is located in the second layer structure. The third flow channel includes a third segment extending axially along the valve core and a fourth segment extending radially along the valve core. The fourth segment defines the third water outlet on the outer peripheral wall of the second layer structure.

9. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-way valve also includes a sealing element located between the valve core and the valve body. The inner peripheral wall of the valve body is provided with at least one set of anti-rotation structures, which abut against the sealing element to restrict the relative rotation between the sealing element and the valve body.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a multi-way valve as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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