Combined filling, draining and venting valve for a heating or cooling system and corresponding heating or cooling system

Abstract

Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) for a heating or cooling system - with a distributor housing (2) having a branch (2.1) for connection to a heating or cooling system as well as an upper outlet (2.2) and a lower outlet (2.3), and - with an actuating device (3) arranged in the distributor housing (2), - wherein the actuating device (3) has a first end position (E 1 ) and a second end position (E 2 ) displaceable valve body (3.1) which has a first fluid connection (F 1 ) between branch (2.1) and upper outlet (2.2) and a second fluid connection (F 2 ) between branch (2.1) and lower outlet (2.3) either blocks or releases, - wherein the valve body (3.1) is designed such that in the first end position (E 1 ) the first fluid connection (F 1) is released and the second fluid connection (F 2 ) is blocked and in the second end position (E 2 ) the first fluid connection (F 1 ) is blocked and the second fluid connection (F 2 ) is released, - wherein the valve body (3.1) extends in the direction of the valve body axis (X) from a first end (3.11) to a second end (3.12) and has a lateral surface (3.13) connecting the first end (3.11) to the second end (3.12), wherein a first valve body channel (3.14) extends through the valve body (3.1), - wherein a second valve body channel (3.15) extends between the valve body (3.1) and the distributor housing (2), which second valve body channel is completely or partially separated from the first valve body channel (3.14) and, - wherein the distributor housing (2) has a wall (2.4) with at least two holes (2.41, 2.41') which separates the branch (2.1) from the remaining interior of the distributor housing (2), wherein one of the holes (2.41, 2.41') can be brought into overlap with the first opening or recessed section (3.141) in the lateral surface (3.13) or in the first end (3.11) and another of the holes (2.41, 2.41') can be brought into overlap with the second opening or recessed section (3.151) in the lateral surface (3.13) or in the first end (3.11), characterized in - that the valve body (3.1) has a recess (3.16) in the area between the first end (3.11) and the second end (3.12) and the distributor housing (2) has a cross-section widening in the direction of the upper outlet (2.2) in the area between the inner end (2.11) of the branch (2.1) and the upper outlet (2.2) and a cross-section widening in the direction of the lower outlet (2.3) in the area between the inner end (2.11) of the branch (2.1) and the lower outlet (2.3), wherein the recess (3.16) and the inner cross-section of the distributor housing (2) extend in such a way that in the first end position (E 1 ) the first fluid connection (F 1 ) from the branch (2.1) via the recess (3.16) to the upper outlet (2.2) and in the second end position (E 2 ) the second fluid connection (F 2 ) runs from the branch (2.1) via the recess (3.16) to the lower outlet (2.3).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a combined filling, draining, and venting valve for a heating or cooling system, comprising a manifold housing that has a branch for connection to a heating or cooling system, for example, a heating circuit manifold, as well as an upper outlet and a lower outlet, and comprising an actuating device arranged in the manifold housing. Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding heating or cooling system with such a combined filling, draining, and venting valve.

[0002] A heating or cooling system, such as underfloor heating, must be capable of being filled with a liquid medium, such as water. The heating system can also be drained or flushed at the same point where it is filled. For this purpose, conventional heating systems have a filling and draining valve that can be moved within a valve housing between a first end position (open position) and a second end position (closed position).

[0003] A filling and emptying valve can, for example, be constructed as described in DE 10 2010 001 087 A1. The valve body is spindle-shaped and mounted inside the housing, with the spindle connected to the housing via a threaded connection. The spindle or valve body is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a cap that protrudes axially from the housing. In addition to the section in which the valve body is mounted, the housing has a branch and an outlet. By turning the cap, the lower end of the valve body opposite the cap can either block a connection opening between the branch and outlet, so that there is no fluid connection between the branch and outlet, or open it, so that there is a fluid connection between the branch and outlet.

[0004] Regardless, heating or cooling systems must also be capable of being vented. For this purpose, a conventional heating system has a vent valve that can be moved within its own housing between a first end position (open position) and a second end position (closed position). Vent valves can be conventional manual valves, quick-acting air vents, or automatic air vents.

[0005] The separate valves, i.e. the filling and emptying valve on the one hand and the venting valve on the other, are usually connected to the piping system independently of each other.

[0006] From EP 1 411 302 A2, it is also known to combine a fill and drain valve and a vent valve in a common distributor housing. Each valve, i.e., the fill and drain valve on the one hand and the vent valve on the other, has its own spindle-shaped valve body, which can be moved between two end positions in the housing. In one end position of the respective valve body, a fluid connection is opened; in the other end position, it is blocked.

[0007] DE 10 2009 004 868 A1 describes an end piece set comprising a ball valve and a vent. The ball of the ball valve is provided with a T-bore and also has a guide plate with vent holes. The displacement (rotation) of the ball valve does not block the fluid connection between the vent holes and the vent, so this connection is always maintained.

[0008] The valve from US 2 106 572 A is intended for mixing liquids and is suitable for filling, emptying and venting.

[0009] The current state of the art has several disadvantages. Due to the large number of components, the technology is relatively complex and cumbersome to operate. Often, different tools are even required to operate the spindle of the fill and drain valve on the one hand and the spindle of the vent valve on the other.

[0010] In the current state of the art, individual components of fill and drain valves or vent valves, which are usually made of metal, are often replaced with plastic parts, but the shape of the parts remains unchanged. The plastic parts are therefore not adapted to the new material, which leads to a short service life, as plastic is less resistant to stress than metal.

[0011] Another problem exists with conventional manual vent valves. These are not suitable for quick or automatic venting. For this, special valves must be replaced with the conventional valves. This conversion is relatively complex. If a heating system with a conventional vent valve is to be converted so that quick or automatic venting is possible, the piping system or distributor housing must first be depressurized. Often, in order to be able to replace a quick vent valve while the heating system is in operation, an additional component, a so-called shut-off valve, is installed in the piping system. The conventional vent valve must then be removed and a quick or automatic vent valve installed in its place.

[0012] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a combined filling, emptying and venting valve for a heating or cooling system which is of simpler construction.

[0013] The previously derived and indicated object is achieved according to the present invention in a filling, emptying and venting valve for a heating or cooling system with a (common) distributor housing, in particular in the form of a T-piece, which has a branch for connection to a heating or cooling system, for example a heating circuit distributor, as well as an upper outlet and a lower outlet, and with an actuating device arranged in the distributor housing, wherein the actuating device has a (common) valve body which can be displaced between a first end position and a second end position and which either blocks or releases a first fluid connection (a first flow path or channel) between the branch and the upper outlet and a second fluid connection (a second flow path or channel) between the branch and the lower outlet, wherein the valve body is designed such thatthat in the first end position the first fluid connection is released and the second fluid connection is blocked and in the second end position the first fluid connection is blocked and the second fluid connection is released, wherein the valve body extends in the direction of the valve body axis from a first end to a second end and has a jacket surface connecting the first end to the second end, wherein a first valve body channel runs through the valve body, wherein between the valve body and the distributor housing there runs a second valve body channel which is completely or partially separated from the first valve body channel, achieved in that the distributor housing has a wall with at least two holes which separates the branch from the remaining interior of the distributor housing,wherein in particular one of the holes can be brought into overlap with the first opening or recessed section in the lateral surface or in the first end and another of the holes can be brought into overlap with the second opening or recessed section in the lateral surface or in the first end, and wherein the valve body has a recess, in particular a circumferential recess, in the region between the first end and the second end, and the distributor housing has a cross-section widening in the direction of the upper outlet in the region between the inner end of the branch and the upper outlet, and a cross-section widening in the direction of the lower outlet in the region between the inner end of the branch and the lower outlet, wherein the recess and the inner cross-section of the distributor housing extend in particular in such a way thatthat in the first end position the first fluid connection runs from the branch via the recess to the upper outlet and in the second end position the second fluid connection runs from the branch via the recess to the lower outlet.

[0014] The upper outlet is used primarily for venting and, in this case, for connecting to a vent hose. The upper outlet can also be connected to a separate quick air vent or automatic air vent. A quick air vent or automatic air vent can be placed and screwed onto the upper outlet without any modifications and during normal system operation. This can be done, for example, when the valve body is in the intermediate position, which means the upper outlet is depressurized. After installation, the valve body can be moved to the first end position, which means the upper outlet is permanently pressurized for quick air vent or automatic air vent. The lower outlet is used primarily for emptying, filling, or flushing the lines of the heating or cooling system and, in this case, for connecting to a hose or piece of pipe through which water can flow.Alternatively, the components to be connected (vent hose, quick vent, automatic vent, water-permeable hose / pipe section) can also be connected to the corresponding side of the valve body or to a cap / flange that is non-rotatably connected to the valve body.

[0015] According to the invention, the valve body therefore serves both as a valve body for the filling and emptying function and as a valve body for the venting function. In contrast to the prior art, only a single valve body needs to be installed and operated for both functions. The valve body can assume two end positions, with one end position, for example the first end position, enabling the venting function and the other end position, for example the second end position, enabling the filling and emptying function. The valve body can also assume an intermediate position between the two end positions, in which the distributor housing is completely closed and neither function is possible.

[0016] In the combined filling, draining, and venting valve, the cross-section of the upper outlet is preferably smaller than the cross-section of the lower outlet, with the upper outlet preferably serving for venting. The lower outlet is then used for emptying, filling, or flushing. The cross-section of the upper outlet can additionally or alternatively be smaller than the cross-section of the branch.

[0017] When reference is made to "top" and "bottom" or to an "upper outlet" and a "lower outlet," this means, according to the invention, that the distributor housing extends from a first end or outlet to a second end or outlet in a direction of extension that, when properly installed, corresponds to the direction of gravity. When properly installed, the upper outlet is then arranged above the lower outlet, at least in a plane above the lower outlet.

[0018] Furthermore, the valve body is designed such that in the first end position, the first fluid connection is released and the second fluid connection is blocked, and in the second end position, the first fluid connection is blocked and the second fluid connection is released. The release of one fluid connection or one flow path automatically causes the blocking of the other fluid connection or the other flow path. The valve body can also be designed, as mentioned, such that in an intermediate position between the first end position and the second end position, the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection are blocked, i.e., the valve according to the invention is completely closed.

[0019] According to another embodiment, the valve body is rotatable (about a valve body axis) and / or axially displaceable (along a valve body axis). It is also conceivable for the valve body to be rotationally symmetrical to the valve body axis and, in particular, to be a cylindrical body.

[0020] If the valve body is only rotatable and not axially displaceable, the valve body is in particular a plug. A plug allows one or more flows or a blockage of the flow path(s) solely depending on the angle of rotation. Alternatively, instead of a plug, a spindle can be provided as the valve body, which is then simultaneously rotatable and axially displaceable within the distributor housing due to a threaded connection to the distributor housing, in particular to the inside or outside of the distributor housing. A spindle can also be designed to be only axially displaceable. Different flow states can also be achieved in this way.

[0021] In particular, the valve body axis, around or along which the displacement of the valve body occurs, is parallel, in particular coaxial, or at an acute angle either to the central axis of the branch or to the central axis of the upper and / or lower outlet. If the valve body axis runs parallel, coaxial, or at an acute angle to the central axis of the branch, it runs at an obtuse angle, preferably perpendicular, to the central axis of the upper and / or lower outlet. If the valve body axis runs parallel, coaxial, or at an acute angle to the central axis of the upper and / or lower outlet, it runs at an obtuse angle, preferably perpendicular, to the central axis of the branch.

[0022] According to the invention, the upper outlet and the lower outlet can be located opposite each other, in particular diametrically opposite each other. As mentioned above, the branch or its central axis runs in particular perpendicular to the upper outlet and / or lower outlet or their respective central axis.

[0023] Furthermore, it can be provided that the branch has a thread, in particular an external thread, for connection to a heating circuit manifold. The upper outlet and / or the side of the valve body facing away from the lower outlet can have a thread, in particular an internal thread, for connection to a hose or for mounting an automatic vent. The lower outlet and / or the side of the valve body facing away from the upper outlet can have a thread, in particular an external thread, for connection to a hose or a piece of pipe.

[0024] For particularly simple assembly, the valve according to the invention, in particular the distributor housing, is constructed such that the valve body can be inserted into the distributor housing through the upper outlet and an axial stop (in the direction away from the upper outlet) is preferably provided within the lower outlet inside the distributor housing, which axially fixes the valve body in the distributor housing in the direction of the lower outlet. In particular, the inner cross section of the entire upper outlet is larger than the outer cross section of the valve body. The inner cross section of the lower outlet can also be partially larger than the outer cross section of the valve body, wherein a cross-sectional constriction is preferably provided as a stop in the lower outlet.

[0025] The valve body is further designed as follows.

[0026] The valve body extends in the direction of the valve body axis from a first end to a second end and has a circumferential surface connecting the first end to the second end, with a first valve body channel extending through the valve body or between the valve body and the distributor housing. The first end of the valve body designates one end surface, and the second end the opposite end surface. Said circumferential surface then extends between the two ends.

[0027] A second valve body channel also runs through the valve body or between the valve body and the distributor housing, which is completely or partially separated from the first valve body channel. It is therefore conceivable that the first valve body channel and / or the second valve body channel are formed by a channel that is completely enclosed by the material of the valve body (perpendicular to the direction of the valve body channel).

[0028] The first valve body channel and / or the second valve body channel can also be formed by a recess (for example in the form of a groove) in the valve body, which forms a channel which (perpendicular to the direction of extension of the valve body channel) is enclosed partly by the material of the valve body and partly by the material of the distributor housing.

[0029] Both variants can also be combined, so that the respective valve body channel can also be formed in one section by a channel that is completely enclosed by the material of the valve body, and in another section by a channel formed by a recess (together with the adjacent inner surface of the distributor housing), which is partially enclosed by the material of the valve body and the remaining part by the material of the distributor housing.

[0030] In the following, some possible variants of a valve or valve body structure according to the invention are described.

[0031] The term “recess section” is also used and is defined as follows: In all variants according to the invention, instead of a channel that is completely enclosed by the material of the valve body (e.g. bore), a recess or groove can be provided, i.e. a channel that is only partially surrounded / formed by the material of the valve body. In the latter case, the channel or at least part of the channel is formed by the valve body material in the region of the recess together with the material of the inner surface of the distributor housing that is adjacent to it (perpendicular to the direction of the channel). In this case, a first section of a recess (a first recess section), which in the first end position faces the branch and is then in fluid communication with it, corresponds to the first opening of a corresponding first valve body channel that is completely enclosed by the material of the valve body.In this sense, a second section of the recess (a second recess section), which in the first end position faces the upper outlet and is then in fluid communication with it, corresponds to the second opening of a corresponding first valve body channel completely enclosed by the material of the valve body. Similarly, a first section of a recess (a first recess section), which in the second end position faces the branch and is then in fluid communication with it, corresponds to the first opening of a corresponding second valve body channel completely enclosed by the material of the valve body.In this sense, a second section of the recess (a second recess section), which in the second end position faces the lower outlet and is then in fluid communication with it, also corresponds to the second opening of a corresponding second valve body channel completely enclosed by the material of the valve body.

[0032] In a variant according to the invention, the valve body axis runs in particular parallel or coaxially or at an acute angle to the central axis of the upper and / or lower outlet. The valve body preferably has at least two valve body channels, particularly preferably exclusively or precisely two valve body channels.

[0033] According to this variant, it can be provided that the first valve body channel runs from a first opening or recessed section (a first portion of the recess) in the jacket surface to an opening or recessed section in the first end and the second valve body channel runs from a second opening or recessed section in the jacket surface to an opening or recessed section in the second end, wherein the first and second valve body channels in the valve body run in particular such that in the first end position the first opening or recessed section in the jacket surface is in fluid communication with the branch and the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid communication with the upper outlet and in the second end position the second opening or recessed section in the jacket surface is in fluid communication with the branch and the opening or recessed section in the second end is in fluid communication with the lower outlet.

[0034] In other words, the valve body channels run in such a way that in the first end position the first fluid connection runs from the branch via the first valve body channel to the upper outlet and in the second end position the second fluid connection runs from the branch via the second valve body channel to the lower outlet.

[0035] It is conceivable that in the first end position and / or second end position both the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid communication with the upper outlet and the opening or recessed section in the second end is in fluid communication with the lower outlet, wherein in the first end position only the first opening or recessed section in the shell surface and in the second end position only the second opening or recessed section in the shell surface is in fluid communication with the branch. Alternatively, in the first end position and / or second end position both the first opening or recessed section in the shell surface and the second opening or recessed section in the shell surface are in fluid communication with the branch, wherein in the first end position only the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid communication with the upper outlet and not the opening orThe recessed section in the second end is in fluid communication with the lower outlet, and in the second end position only the opening or recessed section in the second end is in fluid communication with the lower outlet and not the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid communication with the upper outlet.

[0036] According to a further variant, the valve body axis runs in particular parallel or coaxially or at an acute angle to the central axis of the branch. The valve body preferably has at least one, particularly preferably exclusively or precisely one, valve body channel.

[0037] In this variant, it is provided that the first (in particular only) valve body channel runs from an opening or recessed section in the first end to an opening or recessed section in the jacket surface, wherein the first valve body channel in the valve body runs in particular such that in the first end position the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid communication with the branch and the opening or recessed section in the jacket surface is in fluid communication with the upper outlet and in the second end position the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid communication with the branch and the opening or recessed section in the jacket surface is in fluid communication with the lower outlet.

[0038] In other words, the valve body channel runs in such a way that in the first end position the first fluid connection runs from the branch via the valve body channel to the upper outlet and in the second end position the second fluid connection runs from the branch via the same valve body channel to the lower outlet.

[0039] It is conceivable that in the first end position and / or second end position both the first opening or recessed section in the shell surface is in fluid communication with the upper outlet and the second opening or recessed section in the shell surface is in fluid communication with the lower outlet, wherein in the first end position only the first opening or recessed section in the first end and in the second end position only the second opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid communication with the branch. Alternatively, in the first end position and / or second end position the first opening or recessed section in the first end and the second opening or recessed section in the first end are in fluid communication with the branch, wherein in the first end position only the first opening or recessed section in the shell surface is in fluid communication with the upper outlet and not the second opening orThe recessed section in the lateral surface is in fluid communication with the lower outlet, and in the second end position only the second opening or recessed section in the lateral surface is in fluid communication with the lower outlet and not the first opening or recessed section in the lateral surface is in fluid communication with the upper outlet.

[0040] In principle, a variant would also be conceivable in which the valve body axis runs in particular parallel or coaxially or at an acute angle to the central axis of the branch and the valve body preferably has at least two valve body channels, particularly preferably exclusively or exactly two valve body channels.

[0041] In this variant, it can then be provided that the first valve body channel runs from a first opening or recessed section in the first end to a first opening or recessed section in the jacket surface and the second valve body channel runs from a second opening or recessed section in the first end to a second opening or recessed section in the jacket surface, wherein the first and second valve body channels in the valve body run in particular such that in the first end position the first opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid connection with the branch and the first opening or recessed section in the jacket surface is in fluid connection with the upper outlet and in the second end position the second opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid connection with the branch and the second opening or recessed section in the jacket surface is in fluid connection with the lower outlet.

[0042] Furthermore, a variant would be conceivable in which the valve body axis runs in particular parallel or coaxially or at an acute angle to the central axis of the upper and / or lower outlet and the valve body preferably has at least two valve body channels, particularly preferably exclusively or exactly two valve body channels, wherein both valve body channels start from a common opening in the lateral surface of the valve body and then divide, wherein one valve body channel runs to an opening in the first end and the other valve body channel runs to an opening in the second end of the valve body.

[0043] In this case, it is therefore provided that the first valve body channel runs from an opening or recessed section in the outer surface to an opening or recessed section in the first end and the second valve body channel runs from the opening or recessed section in the outer surface to an opening or recessed section in the second end, wherein the first and second valve body channels in the valve body run in particular such that in the first end position the opening or recessed section in the outer surface is in fluid communication with the branch and the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid communication with the upper outlet and in the second end position the opening or recessed section in the outer surface is in fluid communication with the branch and the opening or recessed section in the second end is in fluid communication with the lower outlet.

[0044] A variant is also conceivable in which the valve body axis runs in particular parallel or coaxially or at an acute angle to the central axis of the branch and in this case too the valve body preferably has at least two valve body channels, particularly preferably exclusively or exactly two valve body channels, both of which extend from a common opening which is provided here in the first end of the valve body, wherein one valve body channel runs from this opening to a first opening in the jacket surface and the second valve body channel runs from the same opening to a second opening in the jacket surface.

[0045] In this case, it is then provided that the first valve body channel runs from an opening or recessed section in the first end to a first opening or recessed section in the jacket surface and the second valve body channel runs from the opening or recessed section in the first end to a second opening or recessed section in the jacket surface, wherein the first and second valve body channels run in particular such that in the first end position the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid connection with the branch and the first opening or recessed section in the jacket surface is in fluid connection with the upper outlet and in the second end position the opening or recessed section in the first end is in fluid connection with the branch and the second opening or recessed section in the jacket surface is in fluid connection with the lower outlet.

[0046] The variants described above, which are only examples and not exhaustive, have, for example, a plug as the valve body, i.e. a valve body which only performs a rotary movement and no axial movement when actuated.

[0047] However, variants are also conceivable in which the valve body is formed by a spindle, meaning that the valve body performs either a simultaneous rotational and translational movement or only a translational movement upon actuation. In this case, the valve body axis runs, in particular, parallel, coaxial, or at an acute angle to the central axis of the upper and / or lower outlet.

[0048] Furthermore, it is provided that the valve body has a recess, in particular a circumferential recess, in the area between the first end and the second end, and the distributor housing has a cross-section that widens in the direction of the upper outlet in the area between the inner end of the branch and the upper outlet, and a cross-section that widens in the direction of the lower outlet in the area between the inner end of the branch and the lower outlet, wherein the recess and the inner cross-section of the distributor housing extend in particular such that in the first end position the first fluid connection runs from the branch via the recess to the upper outlet, and in the second end position the second fluid connection runs from the branch via the recess to the lower outlet.

[0049] In all described variants in which two independent openings or recessed sections are provided in the outer surface of the valve body (i.e., which do not touch each other), it is conceivable that the openings or recessed sections in the outer surface are offset from one another circumferentially (in the circumferential direction), in particular at an angle in a range of 30 to 180°, preferably 45 to 180°, particularly preferably 90 to 180°. Additionally or alternatively, it can also be provided that these openings or recessed sections in the outer surface are offset from one another axially (in the axial direction).

[0050] According to a further embodiment of the filling, emptying, and venting valve according to the invention, the actuating device has several sealing elements, in particular at least three sealing elements, which extend between the outside of the valve body and the inside of the distributor housing. Sealing rings are used as sealing elements, in particular. In principle, molded seals can also be provided instead of O-ring sealing rings. Suitable materials include EPDM (ethylene propylene diene rubber), FKM (fluorocarbon rubber), and / or TPE (thermoplastic elastomers), whereby the connection to the respective component can be achieved, for example, by insertion, bonding, or two-component injection molding.

[0051] Individual or all sealing elements can be mounted or fixed on the valve body or the distributor housing, for example, in a corresponding groove. Preferably, all sealing elements are mounted or fixed on the outer surface of the valve body, so that the valve body and the sealing elements form a single unit. Such a unit can be preassembled and inserted into the distributor housing as a whole, preferably through the upper outlet.

[0052] In particular, a sealing element runs around each opening in the jacket surface. Alternatively or additionally, sealing elements can also be provided circumferentially around the valve body. In this case, all openings in the jacket surface are arranged within a section of the jacket surface that is axially delimited at both ends of the valve body by at least one circumferentially extending sealing element. The sealing elements ensure that in each of the two end positions only the corresponding fluid connection is released, while the other fluid connection is blocked. In the intermediate position, the sealing elements reliably guarantee complete sealing of the distributor housing to the outside. Preferably, in the intermediate position, even the branch is completely sealed off from the rest of the interior of the distributor housing.

[0053] According to another embodiment, the valve body is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a flange protruding axially (in the direction of the valve body axis) from the distributor housing or to a cap protruding axially from the distributor housing. The valve body is in particular formed integrally (made from a single piece) with the flange or cap. Flange and cap form an engagement area for an operator. By rotating the flange or cap, the rotational movement is transmitted to the valve body and the respective function of the combined valve is executed or terminated. The flange and cap can also be angular, in particular as a hexagon or octagon, in order to form an optimized engagement surface for a tool.

[0054] According to the invention, individual or all components, in particular the valve body and / or the distributor housing, can be made of plastic, preferably from injection molding. In this case in particular, the valve body and / or the flange or the cap can be connected to the distributor housing via a snap-in connection (clip connection) and axially fixed in one direction. The valve body is then axially secured opposite to the direction in which it was inserted into the distributor housing (opposite the insertion direction), i.e. in the direction from the lower to the upper outlet. In the other direction, i.e. in the insertion direction, axial fixation or securing can be achieved by a stop for the valve body inside the distributor housing, in particular in the lower outlet, or by a stop for the flange or cap at the upper end of the upper outlet.

[0055] As already mentioned, variants of the combined valve are conceivable in which the valve body is moved both rotaryly and translatorily. In this case, the combined translatory and rotary movement can be achieved through a threaded connection between the valve body and the distributor housing. Alternatively or additionally, a threaded connection can also be provided between the flange or cap and the distributor housing to enable the corresponding movement.

[0056] Furthermore, it is provided that the distributor housing has a wall with at least two holes which separate the branch from the remaining interior of the distributor housing, wherein in particular one of the holes can be brought into overlap with the first opening or recessed section in the outer surface or in the first end and another of the holes can be brought into overlap with the second opening or recessed section in the outer surface or in the first end. The centers of the two holes can lie on a straight line which runs parallel to the valve body axis and / or to the center axis of the upper and / or lower outlet. In particular, when the distributor housing is mounted as intended, the two holes can be spaced apart from one another in the direction of gravity and in particular can be arranged vertically one above the other.This allows air in the branch to be directed through the upper hole to the upper outlet during a venting process, and water to be directed through the lower hole to the lower outlet during a draining process. The wall is useful. when the seal is mounted in the manifold housing around the openings or to guide and secure O-rings that are (removably, i.e., under preload) mounted on the valve body. For seals that are permanently (non-removably) attached to the valve body (e.g., by bonding), the wall is not required, but can provide additional support and / or prevent the seals from shearing off.

[0057] Finally, according to a second teaching of the present invention, the object is achieved by a heating or cooling system with a combined filling, emptying and venting valve as described above and below.

[0058] In such a heating or cooling system, the valve according to the invention can be connected to a heating circuit distributor via the branch directly or via an intermediate piece.

[0059] The combined filling, draining, and venting valve according to the invention, as well as the heating or cooling system according to the invention, has the advantage, among other things, of significantly reducing the number of components. The small number of components also reduces the potential for errors, both during assembly and operation. Assembly can be carried out cost-effectively and easily, for example by plugging or screwing. The components are made of plastic and, for example via a clip connection, are easy to install yet very durable. Operation is particularly simple because only a single actuating element (valve body, flange, or cap) needs to be moved by the operator. The shared valve body prevents the venting and draining sides from opening unintentionally at the same time.In addition, a quick vent or automatic vent can be placed and screwed onto the upper outlet without any modifications and during normal system operation.

[0060] There are now numerous possibilities for designing and developing the combined filling, draining, and venting valve according to the invention and the heating or cooling system according to the invention. Reference is made, on the one hand, to the claims subordinate to claim 1 and, on the other hand, to the description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1a) to c) a first embodiment of a combined filling, emptying and venting valve, Fig. 2a) to c) a second embodiment of a combined filling, emptying and venting valve, Fig. 3a) to d) schematic views of various embodiments of valve bodies for a combined filling, emptying and venting valve, Fig. 4a) to c) a third embodiment of a combined filling, emptying and venting valve and Fig. 5a) to c) a fourth embodiment of a combined filling, emptying and venting valve.

[0061] The examples in the Fig. 1 to 5 differ, among other things, in that the valve bodies are rotated once around a vertical valve body axis ( Fig. 1a) to c), Fig. 3a) and c), Fig. 4a) to c), Fig. 5a) to c) and once around a horizontal valve body axis ( Fig. 2a) to c), Fig. 3b) and d)). Another difference is that in some embodiments, valve body channels run through the valve body ( Fig. 1a) to c), Fig. 2a) to c), Fig. 3a) and b), Fig. 5a) to c)), and in other embodiments, additionally or alternatively, valve body channels are formed between the valve body and the distributor housing ( Fig. 3c) and d), Fig. 4a) to c), Fig. 5a) to c)).

[0062] All embodiments are based on the common basic principle of a combined filling, emptying and venting valve 1 with a distributor housing 2 and an actuating device 3 arranged in the distributor housing 2. The distributor housing 2 has a branch 2.1 for connection to a heating circuit distributor, an upper outlet 2.2 and a lower outlet 2.3.

[0063] The actuating device 3 has a between a first end position E 1 and a second end position E 2 displaceable valve body 3.1, which has a first fluid connection F 1 between branch 2.1 and upper outlet 2.2 and a second fluid connection F 2between branch 2.2 and lower branch 2.3 either blocked or released.

[0064] For all valves in the first end position E 1 the first fluid connection F 1 released and the second fluid connection F 2 blocked. In all cases, the second end position E 2 the first fluid connection F 1 blocked and the second fluid connection F 2 released. In an intermediate position Z, both the first fluid connection F 1 as well as the second fluid connection F 2 The intermediate position Z is in the Fig. 1a), Fig. 2a), Fig. 4a) and Fig. 5a), the first end position E 1 in the Fig. 1b), Fig. 2b), Fig. 4b) and Fig. 5b) and the second end position E 2 in the Fig. 1c), 2c), 4c) and 5c).

[0065] In the Fig. 1a) to c), the valve body 3.1 is designed to rotate around the valve body axis X, which runs vertically here. The valve body 3.1 is a plug. The valve body axis X runs coaxially to the central axis x. 2 of the upper outlet 2.2 and coaxial to the central axis x 3 of the lower outlet 2.3 and perpendicular to the central axis x 1 of branch 2.1.

[0066] The valve body 3.1 extends in the direction of the valve body axis X (axial direction) from a first end 3.11 to a second end 3.12, with a lateral surface 3.13 connecting the two ends of the cylindrical valve body 3.1. An upper valve body channel 3.14 and a lower valve body channel 3.15 are formed in the valve body 3.1, wherein in the first end position E 1 the upper valve body channel 3.14 the fluid connection F 1 releases, whereas in the end position E 2the lower valve body channel 3.15 the fluid connection F 2 releases.

[0067] In other words, it is provided that the first valve body channel 3.14 runs from a first opening 3.141 in the lateral surface 3.13 to an opening 3.142 in the first end 3.11 and the second valve body channel 3.15 runs from a second opening 3.151 in the lateral surface 3.13 to an opening 3.152 in the second end 3.12, wherein the first and second valve body channels 3.14, 3.15 in the valve body 3.1 run in such a way that in the first end position E 1 the first opening 3.141 in the shell surface 3.13 is in fluid communication with the branch 2.1 and the opening 3.142 in the first end 3.11 is in fluid communication with the upper outlet 2.2 and in the second end position E 2 the second opening 3.151 in the shell surface 3.13 is in fluid communication with the branch 2.1 and the opening 3.152 in the second end 3.12 is in fluid communication with the lower outlet 2.3.

[0068] In the Fig. 1a) to c) it can also be seen that a wall 2.4 with an upper hole 2.41 and a lower hole 2.41' is provided at the inner end 2.11 of the branch 2.1. The wall 2.4 separates the branch 2.1 from the remaining interior of the distributor housing 2, wherein the upper hole 2.41 can be brought into overlap with the first opening 3.141 in the outer surface 3.13 and the lower hole 2.41' can be brought into overlap with the second opening 3.151 in the outer surface 3.13 (see Fig. 1b) and Fig. 1c)).

[0069] It can also be seen that the openings 3.141 and 3.151 in the lateral surface 3.13 are offset from each other, circumferentially at an angle of 180° and axially.

[0070] The valve body 3.1 is also equipped with four O-rings 3.2 and 3.2', which are detachably (pulled on under pre-tension) or permanently (e.g., by gluing) connected to the valve body 3.1. The sealing rings reliably ensure the fluid connections F 1 and F2 in the respective end position or prevent a fluid connection in the intermediate position Z.

[0071] The valve body in the Fig. 1a) to c) is also firmly connected to a cap 3.4, which is locked to the distributor housing 2. The valve body 3.1 and cap 3.4 are formed as a single piece. Inside the cap 3.4, above the first end 3.11 of the valve body 3.1, there is an internal thread for connecting a quick-acting vent or automatic vent, or a vent hose. The lower outlet 2.3 is provided with an external thread for connecting a hose or pipe for draining, filling, or flushing.

[0072] The valve in the Fig. 2a) to c), the valve body axis X is arranged horizontally or orthogonally to the direction of gravity and the valve body 3.1 has only a single valve body channel 3.14, which, depending on the end position, provides a fluid connection F1 to the upper exit 2.2 ( Fig. 2 b)) or a fluid connection F 2 to the lower exit 2.3 ( Fig. 2 c)).

[0073] In this embodiment, it is therefore provided that the first valve body channel 3.14 runs from an opening 3.141' in the first end 3.11 to an opening 3.142' in the jacket surface 3.13, wherein the first valve body channel 3.14 in the valve body 3.1 runs in such a way that in the first end position E 1 the opening 3.141' in the first end 3.11 is in fluid communication with the branch 2.1 and the opening 3.142' in the shell surface 3.13 is in fluid communication with the upper outlet 2.2 and in the second end position E 2 the opening 3.141' in the first end 3.11 is in fluid communication with the branch 2.1 and the opening 3.142' in the shell surface 3.13 is in fluid communication with the lower outlet 2.3.

[0074] In this embodiment, the valve body 3.1 is provided with 3 O-rings 3.2 and 3.2', respectively, which form the corresponding fluid connection F 1 or F 2 ensure.

[0075] In addition, the valve body 3.1 is provided with an octagonal flange 3.3 that protrudes axially from the distributor housing 2. The valve body 3.1 and flange 3.3 are integrally formed, so that a rotary movement is transmitted from the flange 3.3 to the valve body 3.1. The flange 3.3 is connected to the distributor housing 2 via a snap-in connection 4.

[0076] The upper outlet 2.2, or a collar surrounding the upper outlet 2.2, is provided with an internal thread for connecting a quick-acting vent valve, automatic vent valve, or a vent hose. The lower outlet 2.3 is provided with an external thread for connecting a hose or pipe for draining, filling, or flushing.

[0077] The Fig. 3a) to d) show schematically different variants of valve bodies 3.1.

[0078] In Fig. 3a) shows a valve body 3.1 with a vertical valve body axis X and two valve body channels 3.14 and 3.15. The valve body 3.1 is shown interrupted in the middle of the drawing, with the upper half of the illustration representing the first end position E. 1 and the lower half of the illustration shows the second end position E 2 The dotted line v 1 or v 2 shows the respective course of the valve body channel 3.14 or 3.15.

[0079] Fig. 3b) shows a valve body 3.1, which is rotatable about a horizontal valve body axis X and has only a single valve body channel 3.14. Here, too, the upper half of the illustration shows the first end position E 1 and the lower half of the illustration shows the second end position E 2 .

[0080] Fig. 3c) shows a Fig. 3a) comparable variant, wherein instead of a valve body channel 3.14 or 3.15 which is completely surrounded by the material of the valve body 3.1, a valve body channel 3.14 or 3.15 is formed between a recess in the valve body 3.1 and the distributor housing 2.

[0081] Fig. 3d) shows a Fig. 3b) comparable embodiment, wherein here too, instead of a channel 3.14 running through the valve body 3.1, a channel 3.14 is formed between a recess in the valve body 3.1 and the distributor housing 2.

[0082] In the Fig. 4a) to c) show an embodiment with a valve body 3.1, which is designed as a spindle that is rotatable about the valve body axis X and axially movable along this axis. The spindle-shaped valve body 3.1 is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a separate cap 3.4, which is placed on the valve body 3.1 and is connected to the distributor housing 2 via a threaded connection 5. A rotational movement of the cap 3.4 leads, through the threaded connection 5, to a simultaneous translational and rotational movement of the cap 3.4 and the valve body 3.1, so that the latter can be moved between a first end position E 1 ( Fig. 4b)) and a second end position E 2 ( Fig. 4c)) is movable.

[0083] In the first end position E 1 a first fluid connection F 1 to the upper exit 2.2 and in the second end position E 2 a second fluid connection F 2to the lower outlet 2.3.

[0084] The fluid connections F 1 and F 2 are each formed by a valve body channel 3.14 and 3.15, respectively, wherein the valve body channel 3.14 is formed partly by a recess 3.16 in the valve body 3.1 (together with the adjacent inner side of the distributor housing 2) and partly by a channel completely enclosed by the material of the valve body 3.1. The valve body channel 3.15 is formed entirely (over its entire length) between the recess 3.16 of the valve body 3.1 and the distributor housing 2.

[0085] At the lower end 3.12 of the valve body 3.1, a stop element 6 is also attached, which limits a movement of the valve body 3.1 in the direction of the upper outlet 2.2.

[0086] The combined valve 1 in the Fig. 4a) to c) functions in such a way that the valve body 3.1 has a circumferential recess 3.16 in the area between the first end 3.11 and the second end 3.12 and the distributor housing 2 has a cross-section widening in the direction of the upper outlet 2.2 in the area between the inner end 2.11 of the branch 2.1 and the upper outlet 2.2 and a cross-section widening in the direction of the lower outlet 2.3 in the area between the inner end 2.11 of the branch 2.1 and the lower outlet 2.3, wherein the recess 3.16 and the inner cross-section of the distributor housing 2 extend in such a way that in the first end position E 1 the first fluid connection F 1 from branch 2.1 via the recess 3.16 to the upper exit 2.2 and in the second end position E 2 the second fluid connection F 2 from branch 2.1 via depression 3.16 to the lower exit 2.3.

[0087] Finally, it can be seen that inside the cap 3.4, around the first end 3.11 of the valve body 3.1, there is an internal thread for connecting a quick-acting or automatic venting device or a venting hose. The lower outlet 2.3 is provided with an external thread for connecting a hose or pipe for draining, filling, or flushing.

[0088] The Fig. 5a) to c) also show a spindle-shaped valve body 3.1, which has a vertical valve body axis X. This valve body 3.1 is axially movable along the valve body axis X. Rotation of the valve body 3.1 is possible in principle, but not necessary and can be prevented by a corresponding anti-twist device (not shown). Adjusting the upper fluid connection F 1 in the first end position E 1 and the lower fluid connection F 2 in the second end position E 2occurs exclusively through a translational movement along the valve body axis X.

[0089] In this case, too, a flange 3.3 is provided at the upper end 3.11 of the valve body 3.1, which is made in one piece with the valve body 3.1. This flange 3.3 projects laterally beyond the distributor housing 2 and forms a flange there in the first end position E. 1 an axial stop in the direction of the lower outlet 2.3. A stop element 6 attached to the lower end 3.12 of the valve body 3.1 forms in the second end position E 2 an axial stop in the opposite direction.

[0090] In this embodiment, the upper valve body channel 3.14 is formed by a channel that is completely enclosed by the material of the valve body 3.1. The lower valve body channel 3.15 is formed between a recess 3.16 in the valve body 3.1 and the distributor housing 2, i.e., its inner wall.

[0091] The examples in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 differ in the position of the end positions of the valve body. The end position E1 is Fig. 4 in the upper, in Fig. 5 in the lower spindle position. The end position E2 is reached in Fig. 4 in the lower, in Fig. 5 in the upper spindle position.

[0092] Finally, an internal thread is provided inside the flange 3.3 around the first end 3.11 of the valve body 3.1 for connecting a quick-acting or automatic venting device or a venting hose. The lower outlet 2.3 is provided with an external thread for connecting a hose or pipe for draining, filling, or flushing.

[0093] All components of the previously described embodiments of a combined filling, emptying and venting valve 1 according to the invention are made of plastic.

Claims

[1] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) for a heating or cooling system - with a distributor housing (2) having a branch (2.1) for connection to a heating or cooling system as well as an upper outlet (2.2) and a lower outlet (2.3), and - with an actuating device (3) arranged in the distributor housing (2), - wherein the actuating device (3) has a first end position (E 1 ) and a second end position (E 2 ) displaceable valve body (3.1) which has a first fluid connection (F 1 ) between branch (2.1) and upper outlet (2.2) and a second fluid connection (F 2 ) between branch (2.1) and lower outlet (2.3) either blocks or releases, - wherein the valve body (3.1) is designed such that in the first end position (E 1 ) the first fluid connection (F 1) is released and the second fluid connection (F 2 ) is blocked and in the second end position (E 2 ) the first fluid connection (F 1 ) is blocked and the second fluid connection (F 2 ) is released, - wherein the valve body (3.1) extends in the direction of the valve body axis (X) from a first end (3.11) to a second end (3.12) and has a lateral surface (3.13) connecting the first end (3.11) to the second end (3.12), wherein a first valve body channel (3.14) extends through the valve body (3.1), - wherein a second valve body channel (3.15) extends between the valve body (3.1) and the distributor housing (2), which second valve body channel is completely or partially separated from the first valve body channel (3.14) and, - wherein the distributor housing (2) has a wall (2.4) with at least two holes (2.41, 2.41') which separates the branch (2.1) from the remaining interior of the distributor housing (2), wherein one of the holes (2.41, 2.41') can be brought into overlap with the first opening or recessed section (3.141) in the lateral surface (3.13) or in the first end (3.11) and another of the holes (2.41, 2.41') can be brought into overlap with the second opening or recessed section (3.151) in the lateral surface (3.13) or in the first end (3.11), characterized by , - that the valve body (3.1) has a recess (3.16) in the area between the first end (3.11) and the second end (3.12) and the distributor housing (2) has a cross-section widening in the direction of the upper outlet (2.2) in the area between the inner end (2.11) of the branch (2.1) and the upper outlet (2.2) and a cross-section widening in the direction of the lower outlet (2.3) in the area between the inner end (2.11) of the branch (2.1) and the lower outlet (2.3), wherein the recess (3.16) and the inner cross-section of the distributor housing (2) extend in such a way that in the first end position (E 1 ) the first fluid connection (F 1 ) from the branch (2.1) via the recess (3.16) to the upper outlet (2.2) and in the second end position (E 2 ) the second fluid connection (F 2 ) runs from the branch (2.1) via the recess (3.16) to the lower outlet (2.3). [2] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the valve body (3.1) is designed so that in an intermediate position (Z) between the first end position (E 1 ) and the second end position (E 2 ) the first fluid connection (F 1 ) and the second fluid connection (F 2 ) are blocked. [3] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the valve body (3.1) is rotatable and / or axially displaceable and is formed by a plug or a spindle. [4] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to claim 3, characterized by that the valve body axis (X), around or along which the displacement of the valve body (3.1) takes place, is parallel or at an acute angle either to the central axis (x 1 ) of the branch (2.1) or to the central axis (x 2 ,x 3) of the upper outlet (2.2) and / or lower outlet (2.3). [5] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the first valve body channel (3.14) and / or the second valve body channel (3.15) is formed by a channel which is completely enclosed by the material of the valve body (3.1) and / or by a recess (3.16) in the valve body (3.1) which forms a channel which is partially enclosed by the material of the valve body (3.1) and the remaining part by the material of the distributor housing (2). [6] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the openings or recess sections (3.141,3.142,3.142',3.151,3.152) in the lateral surface (3.13) are circumferentially offset from one another at an angle in a range of 30 to 180°, preferably 45 to 180°, particularly preferably 90 to 180°, and / or axially. [7] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the actuating device (3) has a plurality of sealing elements (3.2, 3.2') which run between the outside of the valve body and the inside of the distributor housing and which are preferably all mounted on the outer surface (3.13) of the valve body (3.1), with at least one sealing element (3.2) running around each opening (3.141, 3.142, 3.142', 3.151, 3.152) in the outer surface (3.13) and / or all openings (3.141, 3.142, 3.142', 3.151, 3.152) in the outer surface (3.13) being arranged within a section of the outer surface (3.13) which is delimited axially to both ends (3.11, 3.12) of the valve body (3.1) by at least one circumferentially extending sealing element (3.2'). [8] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the valve body (3.1) is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a flange (3.3) or cap (3.4) projecting axially from the distributor housing (2) and is formed in one piece. [9] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the valve body (3.1) and / or the flange (3.3) or the cap (3.4) is axially fixed to the distributor housing (2) via a snap-in connection (4). [10] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that there is a threaded connection (5) between the valve body (3.1) and / or between the flange (3.3) or cap (3.4) and the distributor housing (2). [11] Combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the distributor housing (2) and / or the valve body (3.1) and / or the flange (3.3) or the cap (3.4) is made of plastic. [12] Heating or cooling system with a combined filling, emptying and venting valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

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