Valve for a vehicle

Abstract

A valve device (300) for a vehicle, which is usable in a vehicle to discharge a working fluid flowing therein, comprising: a main body (310) having at least a first outlet (311), a second outlet (315), and an inlet (313), wherein the working fluid flows in through the inlet (313), the first outlet (311) selectively receiving working fluid from the inlet (313); and a first opening and closing unit (320) arranged in the main body (310), wherein the first opening and closing unit (320) selectively fluidically connects one of the first outlet (311) and the second outlet (315) to the inlet depending on the temperature of the working fluid, so that the inflowing working fluid is discharged through the outlet (311), characterized in that the first outlet (311) in the main body (310) is offset from the inlet (313), the second outlet (315) is provided on the side opposite the inlet (313) to be connected to a supply area (340), so that working fluid can optionally be discharged from the inlet (313), the main body (310) further comprises a return (317) provided on a side opposite the inlet (313) for returning the working fluid from the second outlet (315) to the first outlet (311), and the first and a second opening and closing unit are provided to close the first and second outlets (311, 315) respectively and wherein the first outlet, the second outlet and the return are selectively opened or closed by the first and second opening and closing units.

Description

Background of the inventionField of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a valve for a vehicle. More specifically, the invention relates to a valve for a vehicle having a simple device for opening or closing its outlet depending on the temperature of an incoming working fluid. Explanation of related embodiments

[0002] Generally, a valve is placed in a pipe joint or container to admit and discharge a fluid such as air, gas, liquid or water from the environment, stop the flow of the fluid, or control the flow rate or pressure of the fluid.

[0003] The valve controls the flow of fluid by moving over a valve seat, with the fluid flowing along a valve stem and an actuator, and a separate temperature sensing device is used to determine the temperature of the fluid that has passed the valve seat to enable control of the valve.

[0004] JP S60-151 484 A discloses a valve with an inlet and an outlet, in which the flow is controlled by a helical deformation element made of a shape memory alloy that reacts to temperature changes. US Pat. No. 6,253,837 B1 discloses a bypass valve in which a helical deformation element that reacts to temperature changes opens and closes a valve passage to increase or decrease flow through a heat exchanger without completely preventing it. EP 1 302 711 A1 discloses a valve device according to the preamble of claim 1. Short explanation

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a valve for a vehicle which opens and closes an outlet depending on the temperature of an incoming working fluid, wherein, depending on the temperature of the working fluid, the latter is diverted for suitable tempering, and thereby has the advantages of a simple structure.

[0006] A further object of the present invention is to provide a valve for a vehicle which has advantages of saving manufacturing costs by simplified components compared to a conventional wax expansion valve, reduced weight, improved response of the valve with respect to the temperature of the working fluid, reduced flow resistance to achieve a uniform flow rate of the fluid passage and improved reliability of the fluid control.

[0007] These objects are achieved by a valve according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0008] According to the present invention, a valve for a vehicle is provided in a vehicle for discharging a working fluid flowing therein, and comprises a main body having at least a first outlet, a second outlet, and an inlet, wherein the working fluid flows in through the inlet, the first outlet selectively receiving working fluid from the inlet, and a first opening and closing unit provided in the main body, the first opening and closing unit selectively fluidically connecting one of the at least first outlet and second outlet to the inlet depending on the temperature of the working fluid, so that the inflowing working fluid can be discharged or released to the outside through the outlet, the first outlet being formed offset from the inlet in the main body, the second outlet being provided on the side opposite the inlet,to be connected to a supply area so that working fluid can be selectively discharged from the inlet therethrough, the main body further comprises a return line provided on a side opposite the inlet for returning the working fluid from the second outlet to the first outlet, and the first and second opening and closing units are provided to close the first and second outlets, respectively, and wherein the first outlet, the second outlet, and the return line are selectively opened or closed by the first and second opening and closing units.

[0009] The first opening and closing unit may include a mounting cap attached to one end portion of the main body, and a deformation member having one end thereof connected to the mounting cap and inserted into the main body to expand or contract depending on the temperature of the working fluid, the deformation member being disposed close to the at least one outlet.

[0010] The deformation element is, for example, a shape memory alloy, which expands or contracts depending on the temperature of the working fluid.

[0011] The deformation member may include fixed portions provided longitudinally at both end portions of the deformation member and not deformed by temperature, one of the fixed portions being connected to the mounting cap, and a deformation portion provided between the fixed portions and expanding or contracting depending on temperature.

[0012] The deformation element can be in the shape of a circular, cylindrical, or helical spring, so that the coils are in contact with each other (in the longitudinal direction) depending on the temperature. However, the deformation element is not elastic, for example, but rather has the shape or form of a circular or cylindrical helical spring.

[0013] The mounting cap may include an insertion portion having one end thereof inserted into the deformation member, and a mounting portion having one end thereof integrally connected to the other end of the insertion portion and attached to an inner periphery of the main body.

[0014] The mounting portion may have an external thread provided on an external circumferential shape to engage with an internal circumferential shape of the main body.

[0015] The mounting portion may have an engagement portion integrally formed at the other end thereof to be fixed to an outer end portion of the main body.

[0016] The engagement region may have a tool recess formed thereon at the other end thereof.

[0017] The engagement region may have a tool recess formed thereon at the other end thereof.

[0018] The deformation element may have an end cap that is slidably inserted into the main body.

[0019] The end cap may have a passage opening through which, in the form of a bypass, the working fluid can reach the area of ​​the deformation element in the event of pressure fluctuations caused by the inflowing working fluid in order to improve the response behavior of the deformation element due to temperature.

[0020] The main body may have a cylindrical tubular shape with open ends, and the first and second opening and closing units are arranged at both ends to open and close the second outlet and the return, respectively.

[0021] As described above, a valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention for a vehicle uses a simple structure to selectively open or close an outlet depending on the temperature of an inflowing working fluid, and discharges the working fluid effectively, while simplifying the components compared with a conventional wax expansion valve, reducing the manufacturing cost, and simultaneously reducing the weight.

[0022] Also, the response of the valve opening and closing depending on the temperature of the working fluid is improved, the flow resistance of the working fluid is reduced to maintain a constant flow rate, the reliability of fluid control is improved, and in the case where the working fluid is a coolant, the coolant flow is maintained evenly, so that the cooling properties are improved and the energy consumption is reduced.

[0023] The internal structure has also been simplified by reducing the number of components in order to reduce manufacturing costs, reduce weight and simplify maintenance.

[0024] The apparatus of the present invention has other features and advantages which will be apparent from and further detailed in the accompanying drawings, which are hereby incorporated by reference, and which, together with the following detailed description, serve to explain certain principles of the present invention. Short description of the characters Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a valve for a vehicle to illustrate the structure and operation of an opening and closing unit that can be used according to the invention in some exemplary embodiments. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an opening and closing unit that can be used with a valve for a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an opening and closing unit according to various exemplary embodiments. Fig. 4 shows a view under working conditions of an opening and closing unit according to different exemplary embodiments. Fig. 5 shows a view with different operating states of a valve for a vehicle to illustrate the structure and functioning of an opening and closing unit which can be used according to the invention in different exemplary embodiments. Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a valve for a vehicle to illustrate the structure and operation of an opening and closing unit which can be used according to the invention in several exemplary embodiments. Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 show a perspective view and an exploded view of an opening and closing unit for a valve for a vehicle according to the several different embodiments. Fig. 9 shows the opening and closing unit according to several different embodiments under operating conditions. Fig. 10 shows a diagram with different operating states of a valve for a vehicle to illustrate the structure and functioning of an opening and closing unit which can be used according to the invention in different exemplary embodiments. Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a valve for a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 12 shows different operating conditions of a valve for a vehicle according to several exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] It should be understood that the accompanying figures are not necessarily to scale, representing in a somewhat simplified manner various features intended to illustrate basic principles of the invention. The specific structural features of the present invention as disclosed herein include, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, arrangements, and shapes that will become apparent in part from the particular application and conditions of use.

[0026] In the figures, reference symbols refer to the same or corresponding parts throughout the different figures of the drawings. Detailed explanation

[0027] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments as well as to different embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures and described below. While the invention(s) will be explained with reference to exemplary embodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that the present description is not intended to limit the invention to these exemplary embodiments of the invention. On the contrary, the invention(s) are intended to cover not only the exemplary embodiments, but also various alternatives, modifications, equivalents, or other embodiments which may be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0028] Exemplary embodiments and exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a valve for a vehicle to illustrate the structure and operation of an opening and closing unit which can be used according to the invention in an exemplary embodiment, Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an opening and closing unit used with a valve for a vehicle according to the first exemplary embodiment, Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an opening and closing unit according to the first exemplary embodiment, Fig. Fig. 4 shows a view under working conditions of an opening and closing unit according to the first exemplary embodiment and Fig. 5 shows a view with different operating states of a valve for a vehicle to illustrate the structure and operation of an opening and closing unit which can be used according to the invention in an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] Referring to the drawings, a valve 100 for a vehicle shown for explaining the operation of an opening and closing unit has a simple structure for selectively opening and closing an outlet 111 depending on the temperature of a working fluid and thus allowing the passage of the working fluid.

[0031] Also, the present invention provides a valve for a vehicle having the advantages of saving manufacturing costs due to simplified components compared to conventional wax expansion type valves, reduced weight, improved response characteristics of the valve with respect to the temperature of the working fluid, reduced flow resistance to maintain a flow rate, and improved reliability of fluid control.

[0032] For this purpose, as shown in the figure to explain the functioning of an opening and closing unit, Fig. 1, a valve 100 for a vehicle is installed in a vehicle and includes a main body 110 and an opening and closing unit 120 so that an inflowing working fluid can be discharged to the outside, and each of these components will be explained in detail below.

[0033] First, the main body 110 has at least one outlet 111 and one inlet 113, wherein the working fluid flows in through the inlet 113.

[0034] One end of the main body 110 is closed in the longitudinal direction and the other end is opened in the form of a cylindrical pipe piece and the opening and closing unit 120 is provided on the opened side of the main body 110.

[0035] Furthermore, the main body has an inlet 113 formed in a longitudinal direction thereof and one (e.g., exactly one) outlet 111 provided on the opened side of the main body corresponding to the opening and closing unit, the outlet 111 being spaced from the inlet 113.

[0036] Here, the valve 100 for a vehicle is selectively opened or closed by the opening and closing unit 120, and an outlet 111 is provided in a form on a side of the main body 110 opposite to the inlet 113, so that a 2-way valve type is provided.

[0037] Furthermore, the opening / closing unit 120 is arranged on the main body 110 so that the outlet 111 is connected to the inlet 113 depending on the temperature of the incoming working fluid, so that the working fluid flowing in through the inlet 113 can be discharged through the outlet 111.

[0038] As it is in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the opening and closing unit 120 includes a mounting cap 121 and a deformation member 131, and these will be described below.

[0039] First, the mounting cap 121 is attached to one side in the longitudinal direction of the main body 110.

[0040] For this purpose, the mounting cap 121 has an insertion portion 123, one end of which is firmly inserted into the deformation element, and a mounting portion 125, one end of which is connected in connection with the other end of the insertion portion 123, and which is held on an inner circumference of the main body 110.

[0041] An external thread N is provided on an outer periphery of the mounting portion 125 to engage with the inner periphery of the main body 110, and an internal thread is provided on an inner periphery of one open end of the main body 110 in correspondence to the external external thread N.

[0042] Also, the mounting portion 125 is connected to an outer end portion of the other end of the main body 110 such that an engagement portion or collar 127 integrally formed on the mounting portion 125 prevents the mounting portion 125 from being completely inserted into the main body 110.

[0043] The collar has a tool (receptacle) or recess 128 provided on a side facing away from the collar 127, wherein a tool can engage in the tool receiving recess 128, and a user can use the tool to rotate the mounting cap 121 so that the mounting portion 125 can be engaged with the main body 110.

[0044] Furthermore, the mounting portion 125 has a sealing portion 129 which prevents the inflowing working fluid from escaping between the insertion portion 123 and the main body 110.

[0045] Thus, the sealing portion 129 seals a gap between an inner periphery of the main body 110 and an outer periphery of the mounting portion 125 so that the working fluid cannot leak along the external thread N of the mounting portion 125 which is engaged with the main body 110.

[0046] Furthermore, one end portion of the deformation member 131 is connected to the mounting cap 121, which is inserted into the main body 110 to expand or contract depending on the temperature of the working fluid.

[0047] The deformation element 131 may be made of a shape memory alloy that expands or contracts depending on the temperature of the working fluid.

[0048] Depending on a higher or lower temperature relative to a given temperature, the shape memory alloy (SMA = shape memory alloy) expands or contracts, and the shape memory alloy returns to its original shape when the temperature returns to the originally specified reference temperature.

[0049] The deformation element 131, which is made of a shape memory alloy, has a fixed region 133 and a deformation region 135, and these regions are explained in more detail below.

[0050] First, the fixed portion 133 is fixed in the sense that both end portions of the deformation element are not deformed by temperature and one end is welded to maintain the shape.

[0051] The fixed portion 133 is connected to the mounting cap 121, which is attached to the open end of the main body 110. The insertion portion 123 of the mounting cap 121 engages with an inner periphery of the fixed portion 133 to thereby attach the deformation member 131 thereto.

[0052] The deformation region 135 extends over the fixed region 133 in such a way that it can expand or contract depending on the temperature of the working fluid.

[0053] The deformation element 131 has the shape of a circular or cylindrical coil spring, the coils being in contact with each other in the case in which the element 131 has contracted.

[0054] In this sense, the opening and closing unit 120, which has already been described and in Fig. 4, when the working fluid flows at a predetermined temperature, the deformation portion 135 of the deformation member 131 expands deformably.

[0055] Accordingly, the deformation region 135 of the deformation element 131 expands so that the adjacent turns widen and form a distance (S) and the fluid can flow through the distance (S).

[0056] The fixed area 133 is strengthened by welding and therefore retains its original shape.

[0057] According to Fig. 3 shows the state when a cold working fluid flows into the main body 110 and when the deformation element 131 deforms back to the original shape of the deformation region 135.

[0058] Fig. 5 shows a view of a valve shown to explain the operation of an opening and closing unit for a vehicle with different operating states.

[0059] First, in the state that the insertion portion 123 of the mounting cap 121 is inserted into one of the two fixed portions 133 provided at both end portions of the deformation member for fastening, a tool is used to insert the deformation member 131 into the opening portion of the main body 110. The deformation member 131 is connected to the mounting portion 125.

[0060] In this state, the deformation element 131 is arranged to close the outlet 111 of the body 110. The sealing portion 129 is located between the insertion portion 123 and the mounting portion 125 and seals the gap between the main body 110 and the mounting portion 125, preventing the working fluid from leaking between the main body 110 and the mounting portion 125.

[0061] In this state, as shown in S1 of the Fig. 5, the valve 100 for a vehicle closes the outlet 111 in the case that the temperature of the working fluid flowing in via the inlet 113 of the main body 110 is lower than a predetermined value, and the deformation portion 135 of the deformation member 131 maintains its original shape.

[0062] Accordingly, the working fluid flowing into the main body 110 is not discharged through the outlet 111.

[0063] In contrast, S2 shows the Fig. 5 the case where the working fluid flowing into the main body has a higher temperature than a predetermined value, so that the deformation region 135 of the deformation element 131 expands to provide a distance (S) between the turns.

[0064] Accordingly, the outlet 111 is opened and the working fluid flows through the respective distance (S) (between the turns of the coil spring-shaped deformation element 131) in the deformation region 135 to be discharged through the outlet 111.

[0065] When the deformation region 135 has expanded to open the outlet 111 and a fluid of a low temperature now flows in, the deformation region 135 contracts to close the outlet 111, as shown in S1 of the Fig. 5 is shown.

[0066] Thus, due to the operation described above, the deformation element 131 of the opening and closing unit 120 of the valve 110 for a vehicle alternately opens or closes the outlet 111 depending on the temperature of an inflowing working fluid.

[0067] Accordingly, when a valve 100 is designed for a vehicle, the valve has a simple structure, wherein the opening and closing unit 120 has a mounting cap 121 and the deformation member 131 made of a shape memory alloy is used to selectively open and close the outlet 111 depending on the temperature of the working fluid and to discharge the working fluid accordingly, and the number of components used is reduced, the manufacturing cost is reduced, and the weight is lightened compared to a conventional wax expansion valve.

[0068] Accordingly, since a shape memory alloy is used as the deformation element 131 for the opening and closing movements of the valve depending on the temperature of the working fluid, the flow resistance of the working fluid in the valve 100 is reduced to obtain a uniform flow rate, the reliability of the flow control is increased, and in the case where the working fluid is a coolant, the coolant flow is maintained uniformly, so that the cooling properties are improved and the energy consumption of the water pump is reduced.

[0069] The simplified internal structure also reduces the number of components required, thus lowering production costs, reducing weight and simplifying maintenance.

[0070] Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a valve for a vehicle shown to explain the operation of an opening and closing unit, Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 show a perspective view and an exploded view of an opening and closing unit for a valve for a vehicle that can be used in exemplary embodiments, and Fig. 9 shows the opening and closing unit that can be used in exemplary embodiments under operating conditions.

[0071] Referring to the figures, the valve 200 for a vehicle selectively opens or closes the outlet 211 depending on the temperature of a working fluid to discharge the working fluid accordingly.

[0072] Also, the valve for a vehicle has advantages of saving manufacturing costs by simpler components compared to a conventional wax expansion valve, reducing weight, improving the response of the valve depending on the temperature of the working fluid, reducing the flow resistance to maintain a fluid outflow rate, and improving the reliability of fluid control.

[0073] For this purpose, the valve 200 for a vehicle as shown in Fig. 6, is installed in a vehicle and includes a main body 210 and an opening and closing unit 220 so as to let the inflowing working fluid out, and each of these components will be explained in detail below.

[0074] First, the main body 210 has an outlet 211 and at least one inlet 213, wherein the working fluid flows in via the inlet 213.

[0075] Here, one end of the main body 210 is closed in the longitudinal direction and the other end is opened and has a cylindrical tube portion, and the opening and closing unit 220 is attached to the open end of the main body 210.

[0076] In the valve currently under discussion, the inlet 213 is provided on one side in the longitudinal direction of the main body 210 and the first outlet 211 is provided in the direction opposite to the inlet 213 at the closed end and a second outlet 215 is provided spaced from the first outlet 211 on the opposite side of the inlet 213.

[0077] In this sense, the first and second outlets 211 and 215 are formed in opposite directions with respect to the inlet 213 at a predetermined distance from each other, and the valve 200 is selectively closed or opened in the manner of a three-way valve by the opening and closing unit 220.

[0078] The opening and closing unit 220 is attached to the main body 210 to selectively connect the inlet 213 to the first and second outlets 211 and 215 depending on the temperature of an inflowing working fluid so that the working fluid can be discharged from the main body 210 to the atmosphere.

[0079] This shows the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 the opening and closing unit 220, which has a mounting cap 221 and a deformation element 231 and these elements are described below.

[0080] First, the mounting cap 221 is attached to one side in the longitudinal direction of the main body 210.

[0081] The mounting cap 221 has an insertion portion 223 at one of its ends, which is inserted into the deformation element 231 for fastening, and a mounting portion 225, one end of which is connected to the other end of the insertion portion 223 and is mounted on the inner circumference of the main body 210.

[0082] An external thread N is formed on an outer periphery of the mounting portion 225 to engage with an inner periphery of the main body 210, and an internal thread is formed on the inner periphery of one open end portion of the main body 210 corresponding to the external thread N.

[0083] Further, the mounting portion 225 is securely held at an outer end portion of the other end of the main body 210, and an engagement portion or collar 227 is integrally formed on the mounting portion 225 to prevent the mounting portion from being completely inserted into the main body 210.

[0084] The engagement portion or collar 227 includes a tool (receiving) recess 228 formed on another surface of the collar 227, where a tool can be inserted into the tool receiving recess 228 so that a user can use the tool to rotate the mounting cap 221 so that the mounting portion 225 can engage the main body 210.

[0085] Furthermore, the mounting portion 225 has a sealing portion 229 which prevents the inflowing working fluid from escaping between the insertion portion 223 and the main body 210.

[0086] Thus, the sealing portion 229 seals a gap between an inner circumferential shape of the main body 210 and an outer circumferential shape of the mounting portion 225 so that the working fluid cannot leak along the external thread N of the mounting portion 225 engaged with the main body 210.

[0087] Furthermore, an end portion of the deformation member 231 is connected to the mounting cap 221 and inserted into the main body 210 to expand or contract depending on the temperature of the working fluid.

[0088] The deformation element 231 may be made of a shape memory alloy that expands or contracts depending on the temperature of the working fluid.

[0089] The deformation element 231, which is made of a shape memory alloy, has a fixed region 233 and a deformation region 235, and these regions will be explained in more detail below.

[0090] First, the fixed portion 233 is fixed in the sense that the two end portions of the deformation element are not deformed by temperature and one end is welded to the mold.

[0091] The fixed portion 233 is connected to the mounting cap 221, which is attached to the open end of the main body 210. The insertion portion 223 of the mounting cap 221 engages with an inner periphery of the fixed portion 233 to thereby attach the deformation member 231 thereto.

[0092] The deformation region 235 extends between the fixed region(s) 233 such that it can expand or contract depending on the temperature of the working fluid.

[0093] The deformation element 231 has the shape of a circular or cylindrical coil spring, with the coils being in contact with each other when the element 231 has contracted. The deformation element 231, for example, is not or only slightly spring-elastic.

[0094] Thus, the deformation element 231 is slidably received in the main body 210, and its end cap 237 is located at one end thereof.

[0095] When the deformation member 231 of the opening and closing unit 220, which is installed so that the second outlet 215 is open, expands or contracts, the end cap 237 fixed to the fixed portion 233, together with the fixed portion 233, prevents the working fluid from being discharged through the first outlet 211.

[0096] The end cap 237 has a passage opening 239 for passing working fluid to the interior of the deformation element 231 in order to improve the response of the deformation element depending on the flow of the working fluid flowing through the inlet.

[0097] Thus, the passage opening 239 prevents the deformation element 231 from being damaged by the pressure of the working pressure and at the same time, a bypass of the inflowing working fluid is created in the main body 210 so that the deformation element 231 can quickly detect temperature changes of the working fluid.

[0098] In this sense, as it is in Fig. 8, in the above-described opening and closing unit 220, the deformation portion 235 of the deformation member 231 is expanded or contracted in response to the temperature of the working fluid.

[0099] Accordingly, the deformation region 235 of the deformation element 231 is expanded so that the adjacent turns thereof move away from each other and form a distance (S) so that the working fluid can flow through this gap.

[0100] The fixed area 233 is fixed by welding so that it retains its original shape.

[0101] As in Fig. 6, the deformation element 231 returns to its original shape when a cold working fluid flows into the main body 210 and the deformation region 235 contracts.

[0102] In the following, the operation and function of the valve 200 for a vehicle shown to explain the operation of an opening and closing unit will be explained in detail.

[0103] Fig. 10 shows a diagram of a valve for a vehicle with operating states shown to explain the operation of an opening and closing unit.

[0104] First, one fixed portion 233 of the two side fixed portions 233 of the deformation member 231 is fixed to the insertion portion 233 of the mounting cap 221 and the end cap 237 is fixed to the other fixed end 233, and a tool is used to insert the deformation member 231 into the open portion of the main body via the mounting portion 225.

[0105] In this state, the deformation element 231 is aligned to close the second outlet 215 of the main body 210. A sealing portion 229 is provided between the insertion portion 223 and the mounting portion 225, sealing the gap between the main body 210 and the mounting portion 225 so that the working fluid cannot leak between the main body 210 and the mounting portion 225.

[0106] In this state, which is shown in S10 of the Fig. 10, the valve 200 for a vehicle closes the second outlet 215 in the event that the temperature of the working fluid flowing in through the inlet 213 of the main body 210 is lower than a predetermined value, and the deformation portion 235 of the deformation member 231 maintains its original shape.

[0107] Accordingly, the working fluid flowing into the main body 210 is discharged through the first outlet 211.

[0108] In contrast, as in S20 the Fig. 10, the deformation portion 235 of the deformation member 231 expands and forms a gap (S) between the turns when the temperature of a working fluid flowing into the main body is higher than a predetermined value.

[0109] In this case, the fixed portion 233 of the deformation member 231 to which the end cap 237 is attached closes the first outlet 211 and the second outlet 215 is opened so that the working fluid can flow out through the second outlet 215 due to the respective clearance (S) formed in the deformation member 235.

[0110] When a cold working fluid flows in the state in which the deformation element 235 has expanded and the second outlet is opened, the deformation element 235 contracts as shown in S10 of the Fig. 10 to close the second outlet 215 and open the first outlet 211.

[0111] The passage opening 239 is provided as a bypass for the inflowing working fluid in the end cap 237 in order to compensate for pressure differences of the inflowing working fluid and thus damage to the deformation element 231 due to the pressure of the working fluid is avoided.

[0112] At the same time, due to the passage opening 239, a bypass or passage for the working fluid into the deformation element 231 is enabled, so that the deformation element 231 can quickly detect temperature differences in the working fluid and thus the response behavior of the deformation element 231 in response to temperature changes is increased.

[0113] Due to the operations described above, the deformation element 231 of the opening and closing unit 220 of the valve for a vehicle selectively opens or closes the first or second outlet 211 and 215 depending on the temperature of the incoming working fluid.

[0114] Accordingly, when a valve 200 is used for a vehicle, it has a simple structure, wherein the opening and closing unit 220 has a mounting cap 221 and a deformation member 231 made of a shape memory alloy is used to selectively open or close the outlets 211 and 215 depending on the temperature of the working fluid and discharge the working fluid accordingly, and the number of components is reduced, and the manufacturing cost is lower, and the weight is lighter compared to a conventional wax expansion valve.

[0115] Furthermore, by using a shape memory alloy for the deformation element 231 for the opening and closing movement of the valve depending on the temperature, the flow resistance for the working fluid in the valve 200 is reduced to obtain a uniform amount of fluid passage and thus the reliability of the flow control is increased and in the case where the working fluid is a coolant, the coolant flow is maintained uniformly and thus the cooling properties are improved and the energy consumption of the water pump is reduced.

[0116] The number of parts used is also reduced to simplify the internal structure, thus reducing manufacturing costs and weight and making maintenance easier.

[0117] Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of a valve for a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] Referring to the figures, the valve 300 for a vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention selectively opens or closes an outlet 311 depending on the temperature of a working fluid to discharge the working fluid accordingly.

[0119] Also, the present invention of a valve for a vehicle offers the advantages of saving manufacturing costs due to simpler components compared to a conventional wax expansion valve, reducing weight, improving the response speed of a valve depending on the temperature of a working fluid, reducing flow resistance to ensure a flow rate, and improving the reliability of fluid control.

[0120] For this purpose, Fig. 11 shows a valve 300 for a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention for a vehicle, which includes a main body 310 and an opening and closing unit 320 so that the inflowing working fluid can flow out, and each of the components will be explained below.

[0121] First, the main body 310 has at least one outlet 311 and one inlet 313, wherein the working fluid flows in through the inlet 313.

[0122] The valve 300 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention has a first outlet 311 which is spaced from the inlet 313 in the longitudinal direction of the main body 310, a second outlet 315 which is spaced on the side opposite the inlet 313 and which is connected to a separate supply area 340 and a return 317 is provided spaced from the second outlet 315 on the same side as the second outlet 315.

[0123] The supply area 340 may be a heat exchanger with a condenser.

[0124] In the present exemplary embodiment, the main body has a cylindrical tube shape with both ends opened, and an opening and closing unit 320 is provided in the region of the second outlet 315 and the return 317 to close or open them, respectively.

[0125] The valves 300 are provided on both sides of the main body 310 to selectively close or open the second outlet 315 connected to the supply area 340 and the return 317, thus forming a four-way valve.

[0126] The opening and closing unit 320 is provided on the main body 310 to selectively connect the first and second outlets 311 and 315 to the return 317 depending on the temperature of the inflowing fluid, so that the inflowing fluid can be discharged to the outside of the main body 310.

[0127] The opening and closing unit 320 includes a mounting cap 321 and a deformation member 331 and an end cap 337 provided on the deformation member 331, wherein the end cap is the same as in the second exemplary embodiment and therefore further detailed description will be omitted.

[0128] The operation and function of the valve 300 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention for a vehicle will be explained in detail below.

[0129] Fig. 12 is a diagram of a valve for a vehicle according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention with states of operation.

[0130] First, one fixed portion 333 of both fixed portions 333 of the deformation member 331 is connected to the insertion portion 323 of the mounting cap 327, and the end cap 337 is fixed to the other fixed end 333, and a tool is used to insert the deformation member 331 into an open portion of the main body 310 via the mounting portion 325.

[0131] In this case, the deformation elements 321 are configured to close the second outlet 315 and the return 317 in the main body. A sealing region is provided between the insertion region 323 and the mounting region 325 to seal the gap between the main body 310 and the mounting region 325 so that no working fluid can leak between the main body 310 and the mounting region 325.

[0132] In the condition as it appears in S100 of the Fig. 12, a valve 300 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention for a vehicle closes the second outlet 315 and the return 317 in the case that the temperature of the working fluid flowing through the inlet 313 of the main body 310 is lower than a predetermined value, and the deformation portion 335 of the deformation member 331 maintains its original shape. Accordingly, the working fluid flowing into the main body 310 is discharged through the first outlet 311.

[0133] In contrast, the deformation region 335 of the deformation element 331 expands, as shown in S200 of the Fig. 12, when the temperature of a working fluid flowing into the main body is higher than a predetermined value, a clearance (S) is caused between the turns.

[0134] In this case, the fixed portions 333 to which the end caps 337 are respectively attached are located opposite each other in a central portion of the main body 310, so that the working fluid is discharged through the second outlet 315 and cannot exit directly through the first outlet 311, but only after being passed through the supply portion 340.

[0135] Accordingly, when the second outlet 315 is opened, the working fluid flows into the supply section 340 through the clearance (S) provided in the deformation section 335, and the fluid that has supplied the supply section flows back into the main body 310 through the return 317.

[0136] When a cold working fluid flows in the state in which the deformation portion 335 is expanded to open the second outlet 315, the deformation portion 335 contracts as shown in S100 of the Fig. 12, to close the second outlet 315 and the return 317 and to open the first outlet 311 so that the incoming working fluid can flow out directly through the outlet without being passed through the supply area 340.

[0137] A passage opening is provided in an end cap 337 to allow a bypass for the working fluid into the deformation element 331, to compensate for pressure differences of the working fluid flowing in through the inlet 313 and to prevent the deformation element 331 from being damaged by the pressure of the working fluid.

[0138] Also, the working fluid enters the deformation element 331 through the passage opening 339 as a bypass, so that the deformation element 331 can quickly detect temperature changes of the working fluid and thus improves the reaction speed of the deformation element with respect to temperature changes.

[0139] In this sense, due to the above operation, the deformation element 331 of the opening and closing unit 320 of the valve 310 according to the exemplary embodiment for a vehicle opens or closes the first and second outlets 311 and 315 and the return 317 depending on the temperature of the inflowing working fluid.

[0140] Accordingly, a valve 300 for a vehicle provided according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention has a simple structure, wherein the opening and closing unit 320 has a mounting cap 327 and a shape memory alloy is used for the deformation member 331 to selectively open and close the outlet 311 depending on the temperature of the working fluid and thus discharge the working fluid, whereby the number of components is reduced, the manufacturing cost is reduced, and the weight is reduced compared to a conventional wax expansion valve.

[0141] Since a shape memory alloy is also used for the deformation element 331 to cause the valve to open and close depending on the temperature of the working fluid, the flow resistance of the working fluid 300 in the valve 300 is reduced and maintained at a uniform flow rate, and the reliability of the flow control is increased. In the case where the working fluid is a coolant, the coolant flow is ensured uniformly and the cooling performance is thereby improved and the energy consumption of the water pump is reduced.

[0142] The number of components is also reduced to simplify the internal structure, thus reducing manufacturing costs, reducing weight and simplifying maintenance.

[0143] So far, in the exemplary embodiments, it has been explained that the deformation element expands at a high temperature and contracts at a low temperature, but the invention is not limited to this, but the deformation element may expand at low temperatures and contract at high temperatures.

[0144] Also, as the working fluid flowing in the valve for a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, all kinds of fluids in which temperature changes, such as a kind of oil or a coolant used in a vehicle, can be used.

[0145] For the purpose of explanation and accurate definition in the appended claims, the terms "upper", "lower", "inner" and "outer" are used to describe features of exemplary embodiments with reference to the locations of the corresponding features according to the figures.

Claims

[1] A valve device (300) for a vehicle, which is usable in a vehicle to discharge a working fluid flowing therein, comprising: a main body (310) having at least a first outlet (311), a second outlet (315), and an inlet (313), wherein the working fluid flows in through the inlet (313), the first outlet (311) selectively receiving working fluid from the inlet (313); and a first opening and closing unit (320) arranged in the main body (310), wherein the first opening and closing unit (320) selectively fluidically connects one of the first outlet (311) and the second outlet (315) to the inlet depending on the temperature of the working fluid, so that the inflowing working fluid is discharged through the outlet (311), characterized by , that the first outlet (311) in the main body (310) is offset from the inlet (313), the second outlet (315) is provided on the side opposite the inlet (313) to be connected to a supply area (340), so that working fluid can optionally be discharged from the inlet (313), the main body (310) further comprises a return (317) provided on a side opposite the inlet (313) for returning the working fluid from the second outlet (315) to the first outlet (311), and the first and a second opening and closing unit are provided to close the first and second outlets (311, 315) respectively and wherein the first outlet, the second outlet and the return are selectively opened or closed by the first and second opening and closing units. [2] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the first opening and closing unit (320) comprises: a mounting cap (327) attached to an end portion in the main body (310); and a deformation element (331) having one end connected to the mounting cap and inserted into the main body to expand or contract depending on the temperature of the working fluid, wherein the deformation element is arranged close to the at least one outlet (311). [3] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the deformation member (331) is made of a shape memory alloy which expands or contracts depending on the temperature of the working fluid. [4] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the deformation element comprises: fixed portions (333) provided longitudinally at both end portions of the deformation member and which are not deformable by temperature, one of the fixed portions (333) being connected to the mounting cap (327); and a deformation region (335) formed between the fixed regions (333) to expand or contract depending on the temperature. [5] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the deformation element (331) has the shape of a coil spring having radially overlapping turns which are in contact with each other depending on the temperature. [6] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the mounting cap (327) comprises: an insertion portion (323) having one end received in the deformation element (331); and a mounting portion (325) having one end integrally connected to the other end of the insertion portion (323) and disposed in an inner periphery of the main body (310). [7] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the mounting portion (325) has an external thread (N) formed on an outer periphery to engage with an inner periphery of the main body. [8] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the mounting portion has an engagement portion integrally formed at its other end to be fixed to an outer end portion of the main body. [9] Valve device for a vehicle according to claim 8, wherein the engagement region has a tool holder or tool holder recess at its end facing away from the mounting region. [10] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the deformation member (331) has an end cap (337) slidably received in the main body (310). [11] Valve device for a vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the end cap (337) has a passage opening (339) through which a working fluid can reach the region of the deformation element (331) in the event of pressure fluctuations caused by the inflowing working fluid in order to improve the temperature-dependent response behavior of the deformation element (331). [12] A valve device for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the main body (310) has a cylindrical tube shape with both ends open, and the first and second opening and closing units (320) are arranged at both ends to respectively open or close the second outlet (315) and the return (317).

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