Coolant flow control module

Abstract

The facility includes the following: a coolant flow control module (10) comprising the following: several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), each of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) being arranged in a corresponding one of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); several channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226), each of the several channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226) is integrally formed as part of a corresponding one of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); several first connections (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) which are integrally formed as part of a first of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); several second connections (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b) which are integrally formed as part of a second of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); an actuator (20, 214) connected to a first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); and wherein the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) can be operated in such a way as to be rotated into one of several configurations; wherein the actuator (20, 214) rotates one or more of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) into one of the multiple configurations, such that fluid is passed through one or more of the multiple first ports (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) using one of the multiple channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226) and fluid is passed through one or more of the multiple second ports (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b) using one of the multiple channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226) is directed, the multiple channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226) further exhibit the following: several first channels (48a, 224) which are integrally formed as part of the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); and several second channels (118b, 226) which are integrally formed as part of a second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); wherein the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is arranged in the first of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d), the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is arranged in the second of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d) and is connected to the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is connected, and the actuator (20, 214) rotates the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) into one of the several configurations, such that at least one of the several first channels (48a, 224) is in flow communication with at least one of the several first connections (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) and at least one of the several second channels (118b, 226) is in flow connection with at least one of the several second connections (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b); wherein A) the facility: a lower cylindrical wall (122) formed as part of a first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); a lower notch (122a) which is integrally formed as part of the lower cylindrical wall (122) of the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); an inner cylindrical wall (120) formed as part of a second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); and an outer nose (120a) which is integrally formed as part of the inner cylindrical wall (120) of the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); wherein the lower cylindrical wall (122), which is formed as part of the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), is in contact with the inner cylindrical wall (120), which is formed as part of the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), and the outer nose (120a) engages with the lower notch (122a), such that the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) rotate in harmony; exhibits; or B) the facility: several third connections (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 218d) which are integrally formed as part of a third of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); a third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is arranged in the third of the several outer casings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d), wherein the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is connected to the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); a lateral housing (116) connected to the third of the several housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); an external connection (152) which is integrally formed as part of the side housing (116); at least one channel (144) which is integrally formed as part of the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); a second coupling (216b) that selectively connects the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); wherein at least one channel (144) of the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is in continuous flow communication with the outer port (152), such that when the first, second and third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) are rotated in at least one of the several configurations, one of the several third ports (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 218d) is in flow communication with the outer port (152); and the actuator (20, 214) changes the position of the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) relative to the third of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) when the second coupling (216b) separates the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the third of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); is rotated; exhibits.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates generally to a coolant flow control module comprising several different individual valve modules which are installed in one or more configurations to generate multiple flow paths, each of the valve modules being controlled by one or more actuators. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Valves with multiple ports for directing fluid through various lines are widely known. Some of the more common valve types are three-port and four-port valves, where a single valve element is used to direct fluid from an inlet port to one of the various outlet ports. However, as electric vehicle technology advances, there is an increasing need for cooling various electronic components, which many current valves are unable to provide. Various current valve designs have limited dimensions and performance capabilities for providing adequate cooling of these electronic components. Current valve designs are also expensive, complex, and costly to manufacture.

[0003] JP H07-784 Y2 discloses a distribution valve equipped with: a first passage in which horizontally opening connection ports are provided at the front, rear, left, and right; a horizontally opening water inlet port provided between the front and right connection ports; a second passage for selective communication between adjacent connection ports except for the connection port communicating with the first passage; a main valve, one end of which communicates with a connection port other than the connection port connecting the first and second passages, and has a third passage allowing the other end to communicate with the water inlet port, in a valve body with connection ports at the front, rear, and right side, and a water supply outlet port at the bottom.A primary port, the lower end of which is always connected to the water supply outlet and the upper end of which selectively communicates with one of the rear and right-hand connection ports, and a secondary valve with a second port for connecting the right-hand connection port to the front are provided. When the primary port communicates with the rear connection port, the connecting line is connected to and communicates with the opposing right-hand and left-hand connection ports of the primary and secondary valves. A connecting line, in which a strainer is arranged between a front-hand connection port of a primary valve and a water supply outlet port at the lower end of a secondary valve, is connected to a water inlet pipe at the water inlet port of the primary valve. A drain pipe is connected to the front-hand connection port of the secondary valve.and the valve stem of the main valve body is rotated by a motor, and the valve stem of the auxiliary valve body is rotated in conjunction with it.

[0004] WO 2014 / 013 670 A1 discloses a thermal management system for a vehicle, which is equipped with: a plurality of pumps, each of which draws in and discharges a heat transfer medium; a plurality of flow paths through which the heat transfer medium flows; a first switching device with which end faces of the plurality of flow paths are connected in parallel to each other and which selectively causes the plurality of flow paths to communicate with each other; and a second switching device with which other end faces of the plurality of flow paths are connected in parallel to each other and which selectively causes the plurality of flow paths to communicate with each other.The plurality of pumps are each arranged in a plurality of pump arrangement flow paths below the plurality of flow paths, and the first switching device and the second switching device operate such that at least one flow path below the plurality of pump arrangement flow paths and at least one other flow path below the plurality of pump arrangement flow paths communicate with each other. Consequently, the heat medium circulating through the plurality of flow paths can be switched by a simple configuration.

[0005] DE 10 2018 218 054 A1 discloses a fluid power valve device with several rotary valves arranged in series and an actuator for adjusting the rotary valves, wherein each of the rotary valves has a rotary slide arranged in a rotary valve housing and driven by the actuator via a drive shaft. It is provided that two consecutive rotary valves are mechanically connected to each other via a drive device for adjustment by means of the actuator, wherein the drive device has a drive projection arranged on a first of the two rotary valves, which engages in a drive receptacle formed on the other second of the rotary valves with clearance in the direction of rotation, and wherein one of the two rotary valves can only be driven indirectly via the other of the two rotary valves for adjustment by means of the actuator.DE 10 2018 218 054 A1 further discloses a method for operating a fluid power valve device.

[0006] DE 10 2012 214 845 A1 discloses a multi-way flow control valve with a single actuator, consisting of several generally cylindrical channel bodies rotatably mounted in a valve body. The channel bodies are driven in series by a single actuator via a drive element system consisting of a drive pin on the lower side wall of a channel body in the series, which, during rotation, selectively engages an output lug on the upper side wall of its corresponding channel body in the series. The position of each channel body is known to an electronic control unit, which selectively actuates the actuator to set each channel body angular position.

[0007] DE 10 2018 214 174 A1 discloses a multi-port valve arrangement comprising a housing, a rotor arranged in the housing such that the rotor can be moved into a multitude of positions, and a first channel formed integrally as part of the rotor. The multi-port valve arrangement includes various ports, all formed integrally as part of the housing. The rotor is rotated such that the multi-port valve arrangement is moved into a multitude of configurations, each having two or more flow paths that provide a flow connection between the various ports. The rotor can include a first side channel, a second side channel which is fluidically isolated from the first side channel, and the first and second side channels being fluidly isolated from the first channel.Furthermore, the rotor can include a first channel and a second channel, and the second channel is fluidically isolated from the first channel.

[0008] Accordingly, there is a need for a valve arrangement that has multiple designs, a simple construction, can be controlled by one or more actuators, can direct a flow from multiple inlet ports to multiple outlet ports, and is less complex and less expensive to manufacture. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The invention is defined in the independent claims. Further preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0010] In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules, including a first outer housing, a first rotor positioned within the first outer housing, a second outer housing positioned adjacent to the first outer housing, and a second rotor arranged on the second outer housing. The second rotor engages with the first rotor, allowing the first and second rotors to rotate in unison and be set into several configurations. The coolant flow control module further includes an actuator connected to the first rotor, several first ports integrally formed as part of the first outer housing, and several second ports integrally formed as part of the second outer housing.The actuator rotates the first rotor and the second rotor in at least one of the several configurations, such that fluid can flow into or out of one or more of the several first ports through the first rotor and fluid can flow into or out of one or more of the several second ports through the second rotor.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first rotor comprises a first channel and a second channel. The first channel of the first rotor is fluidically isolated from the second channel of the first rotor, and the second channel of the first rotor is in fluid communication with two of the multiple first connections when the first rotor is offset in at least one of the multiple configurations. The first channel is in continuous fluid communication with the second rotor, and the first channel is in fluid communication with one of the multiple first connections when the first rotor is offset in at least one of the multiple configurations.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first channel of the first rotor includes a tapered section capable of distributing fluid to two of the multiple first ports or receiving fluid from them when the first rotor and the second rotor are offset in at least one of the multiple configurations.

[0013] In one embodiment, the second rotor includes a first channel that is integrally formed as part of the second rotor, and a second channel that is integrally formed as part of the second rotor, such that the first channel of the second rotor is fluidically isolated from the second channel of the second rotor. The second channel of the second rotor is in fluid communication with two of the several second connections when the second rotor is offset in at least one of the several configurations.

[0014] The first channel of the first rotor is in constant flow communication with the first channel of the second rotor, so that one of the several first connections is in flow communication with one of the several second connections when the first rotor and the second rotor are offset in at least one of the several configurations.

[0015] In one embodiment, a lower cylindrical wall is formed as part of the first rotor, and a lower notch is integrally formed as part of the lower cylindrical wall of the first rotor. A lower cylindrical wall is formed as part of the second rotor, and an outer lug is integrally formed as part of the inner cylindrical wall of the second rotor. The lower cylindrical wall formed as part of the first rotor is in contact with the inner cylindrical wall formed as part of the second rotor, and the outer lug engages with the lower notch, so that the first rotor and the second rotor rotate in unison.

[0016] In one embodiment, the cylindrical wall of the second rotor is part of the first channel of the second rotor, and a section of the cylindrical wall of the rotor extends into the first channel of the first rotor, so that the first rotor is in flow communication with the second rotor.

[0017] In one embodiment, a first coupling selectively connects the first rotor and the second rotor, and the actuator changes the position of the first rotor relative to the second rotor when the coupling separates the first rotor and the second rotor and the first rotor is rotated.

[0018] In one embodiment, a third outer housing is positioned adjacent to the second outer housing, and several third ports are integrally formed as part of the third outer housing. A third rotor is positioned within the third outer housing and engages with the second rotor, and at least one channel is integrally formed as part of the third rotor. A side housing is connected to the third outer housing, and an outer port is formed as part of the side housing. The channel of the third rotor is in continuous flow communication with the outer port, such that at least one of the several third ports is in flow communication with the outer port when the first rotor, the second rotor, and the third rotor are offset in at least one of the several configurations.

[0019] In one embodiment, the channel of the third rotor includes a tapered section capable of distributing fluid to two of the multiple third ports or receiving fluid from them when the first rotor, the second rotor and the third rotor are offset in at least one of the multiple configurations.

[0020] In one embodiment, a cylindrical wall is integrally formed as part of the second rotor, and an outer lug is integrally formed as part of the cylindrical wall of the second rotor. An upper cylindrical wall is formed as part of the third rotor, and an upper lug is integrally formed as part of the upper cylindrical wall of the third rotor. The cylindrical wall formed as part of the second rotor is in contact with the upper cylindrical wall formed as part of the third rotor, and the outer lug engages with the upper notch, so that the second and third rotors rotate in unison.

[0021] In one embodiment, a second coupling selectively connects the second rotor to the third rotor, and the actuator changes the position of the second rotor relative to the third rotor when the coupling separates the second rotor and the third rotor and the second rotor is rotated.

[0022] In one embodiment, the present invention is a valve arrangement with multiple valve modules. In one embodiment, the valve arrangement comprises multiple valve modules, multiple shafts, each of which is part of a corresponding valve module, and an actuator connected to one of the shafts. Multiple couplings are also included, each coupling being operable for selectively coupling two of the shafts. The actuator rotates a first shaft to align a first valve module to provide one or more flow paths, and when one or more couplings connect two or more shafts, one or more valve modules are configured to provide multiple flow paths.

[0023] In one embodiment, each of the valve modules comprises a housing, multiple ports, each of which is formed as part of the housing, and a rotor arranged in the housing, the rotor being selectively in flow communication with the multiple ports. At least two flow paths are formed by the orientation of the rotor with respect to the housing and the ports, and the rotor is positioned in one of several configurations with respect to the ports and the housing, such that each configuration contains at least two flow paths.

[0024] In one embodiment, each rotor contains a first channel, which is integrally formed as part of the rotor, and a second channel, which is integrally formed as part of the rotor, wherein the second channel is fluidically isolated from the first channel. An axis extends through the rotor, and the rotor is rotatable about the axis. At least one section of the first channel or the second channel extends along the axis.

[0025] In one embodiment, each valve module includes a worm connected to one of the multiple shafts and a worm wheel connected to the rotor. The worm wheel meshes with the worm, so that when the worm is turned by one of the multiple shafts, the worm wheel and the rotor are rotated. In one embodiment, the worm wheel circumscribes the first channel or the second channel.

[0026] Further applications of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided below. It is understood that, although the detailed description and specific examples represent the preferred embodiment of the invention, they are intended solely for illustrative purposes and are not meant to limit the scope of protection of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The present invention is better understood through the detailed description and the accompanying drawings; the drawings show: Fig. 1A a perspective view of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 1B a second perspective view of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 2A a first separated partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 2B a second separated partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 3 a sectional view of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 4 a third separated partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 5 a fourth separated partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 6 a fifth expanded partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 7 a view from below of a first outer housing that is part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 8 a sectional view along lines 8-8 in Fig. 1A; Fig. 9A a perspective view of a first rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 9B a section view along lines 9B-9B in Fig. 9A; Fig. 10 a perspective view of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention, wherein the first outer housing, the second outer housing and the third outer housing have been removed; Fig. 11 a sixth expanded partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 12 a seventh expanded partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 13A a perspective view of a second rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 13B a ​​sectional view along lines 13B-13B in Fig. 13A; Fig. 14 a sectional view along lines 14-14 in Fig. 1A; Fig. 15A an eighth expanded partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 15B a ninth separated partial view of some components that are part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 16A a first perspective view of a third rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 16B a second perspective view of a third rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module according to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 17 a sectional view along lines 17-17 in Fig. 1A; Fig. 18 a diagram of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 19A a top view of a rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 19B a perspective view of a rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 20A a first perspective view of another example of a rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 20B a sectional view from below of another example of a rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 20C a second perspective view of another example of a rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 20D a third perspective view of another example of a rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 21A a first perspective view of yet another example of a rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 21B a second perspective view of yet another example of a rotor used as part of a coolant flow control module with multiple valve modules according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0028] The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the invention, its application or uses in any way.

[0029] In Fig. 1A and Fig. Figure 1B shows a general coolant flow control module at 10. The module 10 comprises a first outer housing 12a, a second outer housing 12b, and a third outer housing 12c. Several first ports 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d are integrally formed with the first outer housing 12a. Several second ports 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d are integrally formed with the second outer housing 12b. Several third ports 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d are integrally formed with the third outer housing 12c.

[0030] The first outer housing 12a is connected to an actuator assembly, generally shown at 20. The actuator assembly 20 includes an actuator housing with two parts 22a, 22b. When assembled, the two parts 22a, 22b form a cavity which is Fig. 3 generally shown at 24. An actuator is arranged in the cavity 24, which in this embodiment is an electric motor 26 having a pinion 28a that is part of a gear set generally shown at 30, for transmitting power from the electric motor 26 to a first rotor which is in Fig. 2A, 3-6 and 8 to 9B are generally shown in 44a. With reference to Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B and Fig. 3. The pinion 28a meshes with a first drive gear 28b, and the first drive gear 28b is integrally formed with a second pinion 28c. The second pinion 28c meshes with a second drive gear 28d, and the second drive gear 28d is integrally formed with a third pinion 28e. The third pinion 28e meshes with a third drive gear 28f, and the third drive gear 28f is integrally formed with a fourth pinion 28g. The fourth pinion 28d meshes with a tooth segment 28h. The tooth segment 28h contains a cavity 34 with an internal toothing section 34a, wherein the internal toothing section 34a engages with an external toothing section 34b, which is formed as part of a shaft 36 of the first rotor 44a, so that the tooth segment 28h and the first rotor 44a rotate in unison.

[0031] The second part 22b of the actuator housing includes a flanged section 22c, which is connected to a flanged section 38a, formed as part of the first outer housing 12a, by some type of connection, such as welding or, more precisely, ultrasonic welding. There are also two shaft seals 40a, 40b; one seal 40a is located next to the second part 22b of the actuator housing, and the other seal 40b is located within the first outer housing 12a. Both shaft seals 40a, 40b prevent fluid from flowing from the first outer housing 12a into the actuator housing.

[0032] The first outer housing 12a contains a cavity, generally shown at 42a. The first rotor 44a is arranged in the cavity 42a, and the shaft 36 of the first rotor 44a extends out of the first housing 12a and into the actuator housing. The shaft 36 is integrally formed with a body section 46a of the first rotor 44a. The first rotor 44a has several channels that provide multiple flow paths through the rotor 44a. In this embodiment, the first rotor 44a includes a first channel 48a and a second channel 48b. The first channel 48a is formed at an angle of 90°; however, it is within the scope of the invention that the first channel 48a can also be formed at other angles. The first channel 48a extends from the bottom of the first rotor 44a to the side of the first rotor 44a.The first channel 48a further contains a tapered section 50, so that fluid from the tapered section 50 of the first rotor 44a can be distributed to multiple ports. Conversely, fluid can also flow from multiple ports into the first rotor 44a through the tapered section 50. The tapered section 50 is configured such that it has an angle 52; more precisely, there are side walls 54a, 54b that are positioned at an angle 52 to each other, as shown in [Figure]. Fig. 9A and Fig. Figure 9B shows that the angle 52 of the side walls 54a, 54b can vary in different embodiments to change the fluid flow to or from the ports 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d.

[0033] In the cavity 42a of the first outer housing 12a, several first seals 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d are also arranged, which are in sliding contact with the outer surface of the first rotor 44a. Several semicircular recesses 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d are integrally formed as part of the first outer housing 12a. Each of the seals 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d is partially arranged in and supported by a corresponding semicircular recess 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d in the cavity 42a of the first outer housing 12a, as shown in Fig. 3, Fig. 5 and Fig. 7 is shown.

[0034] A first inner intermediate housing, which is in Fig. 3-4 and 10, generally shown at 72, is partially arranged in the cavity 42a of the first outer housing 12a. The first inner intermediate housing 72 has an outer lip section 74a attached to a wall section 76a. A circumferential wall 78a with several first semicircular recesses 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d is integrally formed with the wall section 76a, the circumferential wall 78a being positioned in the cavity 42a when the coolant flow control module 10 is assembled. Each of the seals 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d is partially arranged in and supported by a corresponding semicircular recess 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d of the circumferential wall 78a. The seals 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d are thus supported by the semicircular recesses 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d of the first outer housing 12a and the semicircular recesses 80a, 80b, 80c, 80d of the circumferential wall 78a.The circumferential wall 78a further comprises four keyways 82a, 82b, 82c, 82d which engage with four correspondingly shaped projections 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d formed as part of the first outer housing 12a, thus facilitating proper alignment between the first outer housing 12a and the first inner intermediate housing 72 during assembly. Each of the seals 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d is a three-part seal and includes a groove 86a, 86b, 86c, 86d. However, it is within the scope of protection of the invention that the seals 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d may be constructed in one piece and may be formed in different shapes while still providing the desired functionality.

[0035] When the first inner intermediate housing 72 is connected to the first outer housing 12a, a portion of the outer lip section 74a circumscribes a portion of a side wall 92a of the first outer housing 12a, and the side wall 92a contacts the wall section 76a, thereby providing a seal between the first inner intermediate housing 72 and the first outer housing 12a. In one embodiment, the side wall 92a is welded to the wall section 76a; however, it is within the scope of the invention that other connection methods can be used, such as an adhesive or other welding methods. In another embodiment, an O-ring or other type of seal can be arranged between the side wall 92a and the wall section 76a.

[0036] The first inner intermediate housing 72 is also partially arranged in a cavity, generally shown at 42b, of the second outer housing 12b. The second outer housing 12b also has a side wall 92b. When the first intermediate housing 72 is connected to the second outer housing 12b, a portion of the outer lip section 74a circumscribes a portion of the side wall 92b of the second outer housing 12b, and the side wall 92b contacts the wall section 76a on the side of the wall section 76a opposite the side wall 92a. The side wall 92b contacts the wall section 76a, thereby providing a seal between the first intermediate housing 72 and the second outer housing 12a. In one embodiment, the side wall 92b is welded to the wall section 76a; however, it is within the scope of the invention that other types of connection may be used, such as an adhesive or other welding methods.In one embodiment, an O-ring or other type of seal can be arranged between the side wall 92b and the wall section 76a.

[0037] The first intermediate housing 72 further comprises another circumferential wall 78b with several second semicircular recesses 80e, 80f, 80g, 80h, wherein the circumferential wall 78b is positioned in the cavity 42b when the coolant flow control module 10 is assembled. Several second seals 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d are also positioned in the cavity 42b of the second outer housing 12b, and each of the seals 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d is partially arranged in and supported by a corresponding semicircular recess 80e, 80f, 80g, 80h of the circumferential wall 78b. Both circumferential walls 78a, 78b are similarly shaped.The circumferential wall 78b further comprises four keyways 82e, 82f, 82g, 82h which engage with four correspondingly shaped projections 96a, 96b, 96c, 96d formed as part of the second outer housing 12b, thus facilitating proper alignment between the second outer housing 12b and the first inner intermediate housing 72 during assembly. Each of the seals 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d contains a groove and is shaped and constructed similarly to seals 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d.

[0038] With reference to Fig. 3 and 10-14, a second inner intermediate housing 104 is also partially arranged in the cavity 42b of the second outer housing 12b. The second inner intermediate housing 104 has the same shape and construction as the first inner intermediate housing 72. The second inner intermediate housing 104 includes an outer lip section 74b attached to a wall section 76b. A circumferential wall 78c with several first semicircular recesses 106a, 106b, 106c, 106d is integrally formed with the wall section 76b, the circumferential wall 78c being positioned in the cavity 42b when the coolant flow control module 10 is assembled. Each of the seals 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d is partially arranged in and supported by a corresponding semicircular recess 106a, 106b, 106c, 106d of the circumferential wall 78c.The seals 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d are thus supported by the semicircular recesses 80e, 80f, 80g, 80h of the circumferential wall 78b and the semicircular recesses 106a, 106b, 106c, 106d of the circumferential wall 78c. The circumferential wall 78c further has four keyways 108a, 108b, 108c, 108d which engage with four correspondingly shaped projections 96a, 96b, 96c, 96d formed as part of the second outer housing 12b, thus ensuring proper alignment between the second outer housing 12b and the first inner intermediate housing 104 during assembly.

[0039] When the second inner intermediate housing 104 is connected to the second outer housing 12b, a portion of the outer lip section 74b circumscribes a portion of a side wall 92b of the second outer housing 12b, and the side wall 92b contacts the wall section 76b, thereby providing a seal between the second inner intermediate housing 104 and the second outer housing 12b. In one embodiment, the side wall 92b is welded to the wall section 76b; however, it is within the scope of the invention that other types of connection may be used, such as an adhesive or other welding methods. In another embodiment, an O-ring or other type of seal may be arranged between the side wall 92b and the wall section 76b.

[0040] A second rotor 44b is arranged in the cavity 42b of the second outer housing 12b. The second rotor 44b further comprises a body section 46b, and the second rotor 44b is in sliding contact with the seals 94a, 94b, 94c, 94d. The second rotor 44b comprises a first channel 118a and a second channel 118b, which are fluidically isolated from each other. The first channel 118a is T-shaped; however, it is within the scope of the invention that the first channel 118a can also be configured at other angles. A first section 170 of the first channel 118a extends along an axis 60, the axis 60 extending through the entire coolant flow control module 10, and the rotors 44a, 44b rotate about the axis 60. A section of the first channel 118a extends through a cylindrical inner wall 120, which is formed as part of the second rotor 44b.A section of the cylindrical inner wall 120 extends into the first channel 48a of the first rotor 44a, such that the first channel 118a of the second rotor 44b is in continuous flow communication with the first channel 48a of the first rotor 44a. There is also an outer protrusion 120a, which is integrally formed as part of the cylindrical inner wall 120 and engages with a lower notch 122a, which is integrally formed as part of a lower cylindrical wall 122, the lower cylindrical wall 122 being integrally formed as part of the first rotor 44a. As shown in Figure 1. Fig. 3 The lower cylindrical wall 122 of the first rotor 44a is in contact with the cylindrical inner wall 120 of the second rotor 44b. There is also a cylindrical outer wall 124, which is integrally formed as part of the second rotor 44b, wherein the cylindrical outer wall 124 extends through and is in contact with an opening 72a, which is formed as part of the first inner intermediate housing 72, and also touches the lower cylindrical wall 122.

[0041] The second inner intermediate housing 104 is also partially arranged in a cavity, generally shown at 42c, of the third outer housing 12c. The third outer housing 12c also has a side wall 92c. When the second intermediate housing 104 is connected to the third outer housing 12c, a portion of the outer lip section 74b circumscribes a portion of the side wall 92c of the third outer housing 12c, and the side wall 92c contacts the wall section 76b on the side of the wall section 76b opposite the side wall 92b. The side wall 92c contacts the wall section 76b, thereby providing a seal between the second intermediate housing 104 and the third outer housing 12c. In one embodiment, the side wall 92c is welded to the wall section 76b; however, it is within the scope of the invention that other types of connection can be used, such as... B. an adhesive or other welding methods.In one embodiment, an O-ring or other type of seal can be arranged between the side wall 92c and the wall section 76b.

[0042] The second inner intermediate housing 104 further comprises another circumferential wall 78d with several second semicircular recesses 106e, 106f, 106g, 106h, wherein the circumferential wall 78d is positioned in the cavity 42c when the coolant flow control module 10 is assembled. Several third seals 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d are also positioned in the cavity 42c of the third outer housing 12c, and each of the seals 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d is partially arranged in and supported by a corresponding semicircular recess 106e, 106f, 106g, 106h of the circumferential wall 78d. Both circumferential walls 78c, 78d are similarly shaped.The circumferential wall 78d further comprises four keyways 108e, 108f, 108g, 108f which engage with four correspondingly shaped projections 112a, 112b, 112c, 112d formed as part of the third outer housing 12c, thus facilitating proper alignment between the third outer housing 12c and the second inner intermediate housing 104 during assembly. Each of the seals 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d contains a groove and is shaped and constructed similarly to seals 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d.

[0043] With reference to Fig. In figures 3, 11-13B, and 15-16B, the first section 170 of the first channel 118a also extends through an opening 104a of the second inner intermediate housing 104. There is a cylindrical wall 126 with an outer projection 126a that engages with an upper notch 128a, which is formed as part of an upper cylindrical wall 128, the upper cylindrical wall 128 being integrally formed as part of the third rotor 44c. In this embodiment, the cylindrical wall 126 and the inner cylindrical wall 120 are integrally formed together, and both are part of the first channel 118a; however, it is within the scope of the invention that the cylindrical wall 126 may be formed separately from the inner cylindrical wall 120. A section of the cylindrical wall 126 is also partially surrounded by the upper cylindrical wall 128 when the coolant flow control module 10 is assembled.The upper cylindrical band 128 also extends through the opening 104a of the second inner intermediate housing 104 and is thus in contact.

[0044] The second channel 118b of the second rotor 44b is generally straight and extends through the second rotor 44b and also has a generally circular cross-section; however, it is within the scope of protection of the invention that the second channel 118b may also have other shapes.

[0045] With reference to the following Fig. 1A-1B, 3, 10-12 and 15A-17 is a side housing, generally shown at 116, connected to the third outer housing 12c. The side housing 116 includes an outer lip section 130 attached to a wall section 132. A circumferential wall 134 with several first semicircular recesses 136a, 136b, 136c, 136d is integrally formed with the wall section 132, the circumferential wall 134 being positioned in the cavity 42c when the coolant flow control module 10 is assembled. Each of the seals 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d is partially arranged in and supported by a corresponding semicircular recess 136a, 136b, 136c, 136d of the circumferential wall 134. The seals 110a,110b,110c,110d are thus supported by the semicircular recesses 106e,106f,106g,106h of the circumferential wall 78d and the semicircular recesses 136a,136b,136c,136d of the circumferential wall 134.The circumferential wall 134 further has four keyways 138a, 138b, 138c, 138d which engage with the four correspondingly shaped projections 112a, 112b, 112c, 112d which are formed as part of the third outer housing 12c, which helps to ensure proper alignment between the third outer housing 12c and the side housing 116 during assembly.

[0046] The third rotor 44c is positioned in the cavity 42c of the third outer housing 12c and is in sliding contact with the seals 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d and also rotates about the axis 60. The third rotor 44c has a body section 46c, and a channel, generally shown at 144, is integrally formed as part of the body section 46c. The channel 144 is at an angle of substantially 90°, but it is within the scope of the invention that the first channel 144 can also be formed at other angles. The channel 144 further includes a tapered section 146, so that fluid from the tapered section 146 of the first rotor 44c can be distributed to several ports. Conversely, fluid can also flow from several ports into the third rotor 44c through the tapered section 146. With reference to Fig. In section 17, the tapered section 146 is designed to have an angle 148; more precisely, there are side walls 150a, 150b that are positioned at an angle 148 to each other. The angle 148 of the side walls 150a, 150b can vary in different embodiments in order to modify and facilitate the fluid flow between the ports 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d and an outer port 152, which is designed as part of the third outer housing 12c.

[0047] When the side housing 116 is connected to the third outer housing 12c, a portion of the outer lip section 130 surrounds a portion of the side wall 92c of the third outer housing 12c, and the side wall 92c contacts the wall section 132, thus providing a seal between the side housing 116 and the third outer housing 12c. In one embodiment, the side wall 92c is welded to the wall section 132; however, it is within the scope of the invention that other types of connection may be used, such as an adhesive or other welding methods. In another embodiment, an O-ring or other type of seal may be arranged between the side wall 92c and the wall section 132.

[0048] With reference to Fig. 16A and Fig. 16B, a first circumferential wall 154a and a second circumferential wall 154b are also formed as part of the third rotor 44c, and a groove 154c is arranged between the walls 154a, 154b. When the third rotor 44c is positioned in the third outer housing 12c and the temporal housing 116 is connected to the third outer housing 12c, a circular flange section 156 is arranged in the groove 154c, thereby ensuring proper alignment of the third rotor 44c.

[0049] Each of the terminals 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 152 can be connected to various cables of different shapes, which can also be laid out at different angles. Fig. 1A and Fig. In 1B, there are two lines: a first line 158a is connected to port 14a, and a second line 158b is connected to port 14c. In the illustrated embodiment, lines 158a and 158b are configured at a 90° angle. However, it is within the scope of the invention that lines 158a and 158b can be straight or configured at various angles to meet different packaging requirements. In the illustrated embodiment, lines 158a and 158b are welded to ports 14a and 14c. However, it is within the scope of the invention that lines 158a and 158b can be connected to ports 14a and 14c using other connections, such as a snap-fit ​​connection with a seal, a threaded connection, or another suitable fluid-tight connection.

[0050] The first outer casing 12a comprises several mounting flanges 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, and each of the flanges 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d includes an opening 162a, 162b, 162c, 162d. A bracket 164 is connected to three of the flanges 160a, 160b, 160c. In particular, the bracket 164 includes three openings (not shown), and corresponding fasteners 166a, 166b, 166c extend through the openings of the bracket 164 and three openings 162a, 162b, 162c of the flanges 160a, 160b, 160c. The second outer casing 12b and the third outer casing 12c further contain flanges 166a, 166b, 166c, 166d and flanges 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d respectively.The flanges 166a, 166b, 166c, 166d and the flanges 168a, 168b, 168c, 168d all have corresponding openings which can be used to connect one or more of the outer housings 12b, 12c to various supports or other components, so that the cooling module 10 can be positioned in any number of configurations to meet different packaging requirements.

[0051] Referring to the figures in general, during operation the electric motor 26 rotates the gears 28a, 28b, 28c, 28d, 28e, 28f, 28g, 28h of the gear set 30, which in turn rotates the rotors 44a, 44b, 44c in unison. In one example, the rotors 44a, 44b, 44c are rotated in a first configuration, in which channel 48a is in flow communication with connection 14a and channel 48b is closed off from channels 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d. In the first configuration, channel 118a is in flow communication with connection 16a and channel 118b is also closed off from channels 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d. In the first configuration, channel 144 of the third rotor 44c is also in flow communication with connection 18a. Thus, when rotors 44a, 44b, 44c are rotated into the first configuration, connection 14a and connection 16a are in flow communication with each other, and connection 18a is in flow communication with connection 152.

[0052] Rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c can be rotated into a second configuration, in which channel 48a is in flow communication with both ports 14a and 14b, and channel 48b is in flow communication with ports 14c and 14d. In this second configuration, channel 118a is closed off from ports 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, while channel 118b is in flow communication with both ports 16c and 16d. Channel 144 is also in flow communication with ports 18a and 18b in this second configuration. Thus, when rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c are rotated into the second configuration, port 14a and port 14b are in flow communication with each other, and port 14c and port 14d are in flow communication with each other. In the second design, connection 16c and connection 16d are in flow connection with each other, and connection 152 is in flow connection with connection 18a and connection 18b.

[0053] The rotors 44a, 44b, 44c can be rotated into a third configuration, wherein channel 48a is in flow communication with connection 14b and channel 48b is closed off from channels 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, as shown in Fig. Figure 3 shows that in the third design, channel 118a is in flow connection with connection 16b, and channel 118b is also shut off from channels 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, as in Figure 3. Fig. Figure 3 shows that, in the third configuration, channel 144 of the third rotor 44c is also in flow communication with connection 18b. Thus, when rotors 44a, 44b, 44c are rotated into the third configuration, connection 14b and connection 16b are in flow communication with each other, and connection 18b is in flow communication with connection 152.

[0054] Rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c can be rotated into a fourth configuration, in which channel 48a is in flow communication with both ports 14b and 14c, and channel 48b is in flow communication with ports 14a and 14d. In this fourth configuration, channel 118a is closed off from ports 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, while channel 118b is in flow communication with both ports 16a and 16d. Channel 144 is also in flow communication with ports 18b and 18c in this fourth configuration. Thus, when rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c are rotated into the fourth configuration, port 14b and port 14c are in flow communication with each other, and port 14a and port 14d are in flow communication with each other. In the fourth design, connection 16a and connection 16d are in flow connection with each other, and connection 152 is in flow connection with connection 18b and connection 18c.

[0055] Rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c can be rotated into a fifth configuration, in which channel 48a is in flow communication with connection 14c and channel 48b is closed off from channels 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d. In this fifth configuration, channel 118a is in flow communication with connection 16c, and channel 118b is also closed off from channels 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d. Channel 144 of the third rotor 44c is also in flow communication with connection 18c in this fifth configuration, as shown in Fig. Figure 17 shows that when rotors 44a, 44b, 44c are rotated into the fifth configuration, port 14c and port 16c are in flow communication with each other, and port 18c is in flow communication with port 152.

[0056] Rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c can be rotated into a sixth configuration, in which channel 48a is in flow communication with both ports 14c and 14d, and channel 48b is in flow communication with ports 14a and 14b. In this sixth configuration, channel 118a is closed off from ports 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, while channel 118b is in flow communication with both ports 16a and 16b. Channel 144 is also in flow communication with ports 18c and 18d in this sixth configuration. Thus, when rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c are rotated into the sixth configuration, port 14c and port 14d are in flow communication with each other, and port 14a and port 14b are in flow communication with each other. In the sixth design, connection 16a and connection 16b are in flow connection with each other, and connection 152 is in flow connection with connection 18c and connection 18d.

[0057] Rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c can be rotated into a seventh configuration, in which channel 48a is in flow communication with port 14d, and channel 48b is closed off from channels 14a, 14b, 14c, and 14d. In the seventh configuration, channel 118a is in flow communication with port 16d, and channel 118b is also closed off from channels 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d. Channel 144 of the third rotor 44c is also in flow communication with port 18d in the seventh configuration. Thus, when rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c are rotated into the seventh configuration, port 14d and port 16d are in flow communication with each other, and port 18d is in flow communication with port 152.

[0058] Rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c can be rotated into an eighth configuration, in which channel 48a is in flow communication with both ports 14a and 14d, and channel 48b is in flow communication with ports 14b and 14c. In the eighth configuration, channel 118a is closed off from ports 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d, while channel 118b is in flow communication with both ports 16b and 16c. Channel 144 is also in flow communication with ports 18a and 18d in the eighth configuration. Thus, when rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c are rotated into the eighth configuration, port 14a and port 14d are in flow communication with each other, and port 14b and port 14c are in flow communication with each other. In the eighth design, connection 16b and connection 16c are in flow connection with each other, and connection 152 is in flow connection with connection 18a and connection 18d.

[0059] Each of the ports 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 152 can be used as an inlet or an outlet, and there are numerous possible flow paths and flow configurations. In a non-restrictive example, if the rotors 44a, 44b, 44c are shifted to the third configuration, as shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 14, fluid can flow from port 14b, through the first channel 48b of the first rotor 44a, through the first channel 118a of the second rotor 44b, and out of outlet 46b. Conversely, fluid can flow from outlet 16b, through the first channel 118a of the second rotor 44b, through the first channel 48b of the first rotor 44a, and out of port 14b. Furthermore, if rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c are in the third configuration, fluid can flow into outlet 18b, through channel 144 of the third rotor 44c, and out of outlet 152. Conversely, fluid can flow from outlet 152, through channel 144 of the third rotor 44c, and out of outlet 18b. Varying flow paths and directions can also be used in any of the other designs.

[0060] The rotors 44a, 44b, 44c can also be designed differently with respect to each other. The lower notch 122a of the first rotor 44a can be located at a different position on the lower cylindrical wall 122, the upper notch 128a of the second rotor 44b can be located at a different position on the upper cylindrical band 128, and the noses 120a, 126a of the second rotor 44b can be located at different positions on the corresponding cylindrical walls 120, 126, so that the channels 48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144 are oriented differently with respect to each other, thus enabling different flow paths and designs.

[0061] The design of the outer housings 12a, 12b, 12c is generally similar. The design of the inner intermediate housings 72, 104 is also generally similar. This allows for the inclusion of additional intermediate housings or outer housings as part of the coolant flow control module 10, enabling the use of additional rotors and the creation of numerous additional flow paths and configurations. Furthermore, the coolant flow control module 10 can also be assembled without the second inner intermediate housing 72, the third outer housing 120, and the second outer housing 12b, allowing for the use of a reduced number of rotors to generate a reduced number of flow paths. Therefore, the coolant flow control module 10 can be used for any number of applications requiring varying numbers of flow paths.

[0062] In the embodiment described above, all three rotors 44a, 44b, 44c rotate in unison. In other embodiments, the movement of the rotors 44a, 44b, 44c may include a "free stroke" feature, wherein the lower notch 122a and / or the upper notch 128a may have different widths. In these embodiments, the first rotor 44a may rotate relative to the second rotor 44b and the third rotor 44c. Furthermore, the first rotor 44a and the second rotor 44b may rotate relative to the third rotor 44c. For example, the width of the lower notch 122a may be such that the first rotor 44a may be rotated by 45° relative to the second rotor 44b and the third rotor 44c. The first rotor 44a can be rotated more or less relative to the second rotor 44b and the third rotor 44c, depending on the width of the lower notch 122a.Similarly, in one example, the width of the upper notch 128a can be such that the first rotor 44a and the second rotor 44b can be rotated by 45° relative to the third rotor 44c. Depending on the width of the upper notch 122a, the first rotor 44a and the second rotor 44b can be rotated more or less relative to the third rotor 44c. The idle stroke feature allows for relative movement between the rotors 44a, 44b, and 44c, which in turn provides additional flow design possibilities.

[0063] It is also noted that the angle 52 of the side walls 54a, 54b of the first rotor 44a and the angle 148 of the side walls 150a, 150b of the third rotor 44c can be varied between parallel to each other and 180°, so that a wide flow control range can be achieved, allowing different flow rates between the ports 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d of the first outer casing 12a and between the ports 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d of the third outer casing 12c and the outer port 152 of the side casing 116.

[0064] An alternative embodiment of a coolant flow control module with a valve arrangement containing multiple valve modules is described in Fig. 18, generally at 200, shown. At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 18, there is a first valve module 202a, a second valve module 202b is connected to the first valve module 202a, and a third valve module 202c is connected to the second valve module 202b. A fourth valve module 202d is also connected to the first valve module 202a. Each of the valve modules 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d contains a corresponding housing 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d and a corresponding rotor 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d. Each rotor 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d can be rotated to direct fluid through each of the corresponding housings 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d.

[0065] Three of the valve modules 202a, 202b, 202c also contain a gear element, in this embodiment a worm gear 208a, 208b, 208c, and each worm gear 208a, 208b, 208c meshes with a corresponding worm 210a, 210b, 210c. Each worm gear 208a, 208b, 208c is integrally formed as part of a corresponding rotor 206a, 206b, 206c. Each worm 210a, 210b, 210c is attached to a corresponding shaft 212a, 212b, 212c, and each shaft 212a, 212b, 212c is attached to one of the corresponding housings 204a, 204b, 204c.

[0066] The first shaft 212a is connected to an actuator 214, which can rotate the first shaft 212a in a first direction (clockwise) or a second direction (counterclockwise). The first shaft 212a is selectively connected to the second shaft 212b by a first coupling 216a, and the second shaft 212b is selectively connected to the third shaft 212c by a second coupling 216b.

[0067] There are also several ports that allow fluid to flow through the various housings 204a, 204b, 204c, and 204d. Specifically, there is a first port 218a, which is integrally formed as part of the first housing 204a. There is a second port 218b and a third port 210c, which are integrally formed as part of the second housing 204b. There is also a fourth port 218d, which is integrally formed as part of the third housing 204c. Furthermore, there is a fifth port 218e and a sixth port 218f, which are integrally formed as part of the fourth housing 204d. Each of the ports 218a, 218b, 218c, 218e, 218f can act as an inlet port or an outlet port depending on the design of each of the rotors 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d.

[0068] In this embodiment, there are also terminals 220a, 220b, which are integrally formed as part of the first housing 204a and the second housing 204b, which are in Fig. Figure 18 shows in dashed lines and provides a flow connection between the first housing 204a and the second housing 204b. It is also within the scope of the invention that connections can be formed as part of the second housing 204b and the third housing 204c, so that there is a flow connection between the second housing 204b and the third housing 204c.

[0069] The fourth rotor 206d is connected to the first rotor 206a, so that both rotors 206a and 206d rotate in unison. The fourth rotor 206d can be connected to the first rotor 206a by using any suitable connecting piece or device. A non-limiting example of how the rotors 206a and 206d can be connected is by a shaft 222, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 18, however, it is within the scope of protection of the invention that the rotors 206a, 206d may be connected by the use of other connecting devices, such as, among others, one or more gears, a locking mechanism or the like.

[0070] During operation, when couplings 216a and 216b are deactivated, actuator 214 rotates shaft 212a in the first or second direction, which in turn rotates worm 210a and thus also worm wheel 208a and rotors 206a and 206d. Depending on the positions of rotors 206a and 206d, fluid is then directed through the various ports 218a, 218e, 218f, 220a, and 220b.

[0071] The couplings 216a and 216b can be actuated to couple the first shaft 212a with the second shaft 212b and the second shaft 212b with the third shaft 212c, so that shafts 212b and 212c also rotate when the first shaft 212a is rotated by the actuator 214. As with the first module 202a, rotation of shaft 212b rotates the worm 210b, and thus also the worm wheel 208b and the rotor 206b. Furthermore, rotation of shaft 212c rotates the worm 210c, and thus also the worm wheel 208c and the rotor 206c. A rotation of the rotors 206b, 206c enables or prevents the flow of fluid through the ports 218b, 218c.

[0072] An example of a rotor 206b, which is used in one or more of the modules 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d, is given in Fig. Figures 19A-19B show the following example: Rotor 206b contains a first channel 224, which allows flow between a first opening 224a and a second opening 224b. Rotor 206b also contains a second channel 226, which allows flow between a third opening 226a and a fourth opening 226b. The first channel 224 and the second channel 226 are fluidically isolated from each other, so that the first channel 224 and the second channel 226 are not in flow communication with each other.

[0073] As in Fig. 19A and Fig. As shown in Figure 19B, the worm gear 208a is connected to the rotor 206b, such that a section of the first channel 224 extends through the first worm gear 208a. Furthermore, the rotor 206b rotates about an axis 228, and a section of the first channel 224 is positioned such that there is a flow along the axis 228. A section of the second channel 226 is also positioned such that there is a flow along the axis 228.

[0074] Other examples of rotors are found in Fig. Figures 20A-21B show different possible channels with different flow paths through the rotor.

Claims

[1] Establishment which has the following features: a coolant flow control module (10) comprising the following: several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), each of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) being arranged in a corresponding one of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); several channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226), each of the several channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226) is integrally formed as part of a corresponding one of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); several first connections (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) which are integrally formed as part of a first of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); several second connections (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b) which are integrally formed as part of a second of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); an actuator (20, 214) connected to a first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); and wherein the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) can be operated in such a way as to be rotated into one of several configurations; wherein the actuator (20, 214) rotates one or more of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) into one of the multiple configurations, such that fluid is passed through one or more of the multiple first ports (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) using one of the multiple channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226) and fluid is passed through one or more of the multiple second ports (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b) using one of the multiple channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226) is directed, the multiple channels (48a, 48b, 118a, 118b, 144, 224, 226) further exhibit the following: several first channels (48a, 224) which are integrally formed as part of the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); and several second channels (118b, 226) which are integrally formed as part of a second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); wherein the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is arranged in the first of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d), the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is arranged in the second of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d) and is connected to the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is connected, and the actuator (20, 214) rotates the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) into one of the several configurations, such that at least one of the several first channels (48a, 224) is in flow communication with at least one of the several first connections (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) and at least one of the several second channels (118b, 226) is in flow connection with at least one of the several second connections (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b); wherein A) the facility: a lower cylindrical wall (122) formed as part of a first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); a lower notch (122a) which is integrally formed as part of the lower cylindrical wall (122) of the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); an inner cylindrical wall (120) formed as part of a second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); and an outer nose (120a) which is integrally formed as part of the inner cylindrical wall (120) of the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); wherein the lower cylindrical wall (122), which is formed as part of the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), is in contact with the inner cylindrical wall (120), which is formed as part of the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), and the outer nose (120a) engages with the lower notch (122a), such that the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) rotate in harmony; exhibits; or B) the facility: several third connections (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 218d) which are integrally formed as part of a third of the several outer housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); a third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is arranged in the third of the several outer casings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d), wherein the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is connected to the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); a lateral housing (116) connected to the third of the several housings (12a, 12b, 12c, 204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); an external connection (152) which is integrally formed as part of the side housing (116); at least one channel (144) which is integrally formed as part of the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); a second coupling (216b) that selectively connects the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); wherein at least one channel (144) of the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is in continuous flow communication with the outer port (152), such that when the first, second and third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) are rotated in at least one of the several configurations, one of the several third ports (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 218d) is in flow communication with the outer port (152); and the actuator (20, 214) changes the position of the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) relative to the third of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) when the second coupling (216b) separates the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the third of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); is rotated; exhibits. [2] Device according to claim 1, wherein one of the several first channels (48a, 224) is in flow communication with one of the several second channels (118b, 226), such that when the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) are rotated into one of the several configurations, one of the several first connections (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) is in flow communication with one of the several second connections (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b). [3] Device according to claim 1, wherein the multiple first channels (48a, 224) are operable to provide a flow connection between two of the multiple first ports (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) when the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) are rotated in at least one of the multiple configurations. [4] Device according to claim 1, wherein one of the several second channels (118b, 226) is operable to provide a flow connection between two of the several second ports (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b) when the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) are rotated in at least one of the several configurations. [5] Device according to claim 1, further comprising a tapered section (50) formed as part of one of the several first channels (48a, 224), wherein the tapered section (50) can direct fluid to or receive fluid from two of the several first channels (48a, 224) when the first and second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) are rotated in at least one of the several configurations. [6] Device according to claim 1, wherein the cylindrical wall (120) of the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is part of one of the multiple second channels (118b, 226) and a section of the cylindrical wall (120) of the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) extends into one of the multiple first channels (48a, 224) such that the first of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is connected to the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is in flow connection. [7] Device according to variant B) of claim 1, which further comprises: a first coupling (216a) selectively connecting the first of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); wherein the actuator (20, 214) changes the position of the first of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) relative to the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) when the coupling (216a) separates the first of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the first of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is being filmed. [8] Device according to variant A) of claim 1, which further comprises: a cylindrical wall (126) which is integrally formed as part of the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); an outer nose (126a) formed integrally as part of the cylindrical wall (126) of the second of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); an upper cylindrical wall (128) formed as part of a third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); and an upper notch (128a) which is integrally formed as part of the upper cylindrical wall (128) of the third of the several rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); wherein the cylindrical wall (126), which is formed as part of the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), is in contact with the upper cylindrical wall (128), which is formed as part of the third of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), and the outer nose (126a) engages with the upper notch (128a), such that the second of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) and the third of the multiple rotors (44a, 44b, 44c, 206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) are in contact Turn in harmony. [9] Coolant flow control module (10) with multiple valve modules comprising the following: a first outer casing (12a, 204a); a first rotor (44a, 206a) positioned in the first outer casing (12a, 204a); a second outer casing (12b, 204b) positioned next to the first outer casing (12a, 204a); a second rotor (44b, 206b) arranged in the second outer housing (12b, 204b), wherein the second rotor (44b, 206b) engages with the first rotor (44a, 206a) so that the first rotor (44a, 206a) and the second rotor (44b, 206b) rotate in unison and can be rotated in one of several configurations; an actuator (20, 214) connected to the first rotor (44a, 206a); several first connections (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) which are integrally formed as part of the first outer casing (12a, 204a); and several second connections (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b) which are integrally formed as part of the second outer casing (12b, 204b); wherein the actuator (20, 214) rotates the first rotor (44a, 206a) and the second rotor (44b, 206b) in at least one of the several configurations, such that fluid can flow into or out of one or more of the several first ports (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) through the first rotor (44a, 206a) and fluid can flow into or out of one or more of the several second ports (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b) through the second rotor (44b, 206b), wherein A) the coolant flow control module (10): a lower cylindrical wall (122) formed as part of the first rotor (44a, 206a); a lower notch (122a) which is integrally formed as part of the lower cylindrical wall (122) of the first rotor (44a, 206a); an inner cylindrical wall (120) which is formed as part of the second rotor (44b, 206b); an outer nose (120a) which is integrally formed as part of the inner cylindrical wall (120) of the second rotor (44b, 206a); wherein the lower cylindrical wall (122), which is formed as part of the first rotor (44a, 206a), is in contact with the inner cylindrical wall (120), which is formed as part of the second rotor (44b, 206b), and the outer nose (120a) engages with the lower notch (122a), so that the first rotor (44a, 206a) and the second rotor (44b, 206b) rotate in unison; or B) the coolant flow control module (10): a third outer casing (12c, 204c) positioned next to the second outer casing (12b, 204b); several third connections (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 218d) which are integrally formed as part of the third housing (12c,204c); a third rotor (44c, 206c) which is positioned in the third outer housing (12c, 204c) and engages with the second rotor (44b, 206b); at least one channel (144) which is integrally formed as part of the third rotor (44c, 206c); a side case (116) connected to the third outer case (12c, 204c); an external connection (152) which is integrally formed as part of the side housing (116); and a second coupling (216b) that selectively connects the second rotor (44b, 206b) to the third rotor (44c, 206c); wherein at least one channel (144) of the third rotor (44c, 206c) is in continuous flow communication with the outer port (152), such that when the first rotor (44a, 206a) and the third rotor (44c, 206c) are rotated in at least one of the several configurations, at least one of the several third ports (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 218d) is in flow communication with the outer port (152); and the actuator (20, 214) changes the position of the second rotor (44b, 206b) relative to the third rotor (44c, 206c) when the coupling (216b) separates the second rotor (44b, 206b) and the third rotor (44c, 206c) and the second rotor (44b, 206b) is rotated; exhibits. [10] Coolant flow control module (10) with multiple valve modules according to claim 9, wherein the first rotor (44a, 206a) further comprises: a first channel (48a, 224); and a second channel (48b, 226), wherein the first channel (48a, 224) of the first rotor (44a, 206a) is fluidically isolated from the second channel (48b, 226) of the first rotor (44a, 206a), and the second channel (48b, 226) of the first rotor (44a, 206a) is in flow communication with two of the several first connections (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) when the first rotor (44a, 206a) is rotated in at least one of the several configurations; wherein the first channel (48a, 224) is in continuous flow communication with the second rotor (44b, 206b) and the first channel (48a, 224) is in flow communication with one of the several first connections (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) when the first rotor (44a, 206a) is rotated in at least one of the several configurations. [11] Coolant flow control module (10) with multiple valve modules according to claim 10, wherein the first channel (48a, 224) of the first rotor (44a, 206a) further comprises a tapered section (50) that can direct fluid to or receive fluid from two of the multiple first channels (48a, 224) when the first rotor (44a, 206a) and the second rotor (44b, 206b) are rotated in at least one of the multiple configurations. [12] Coolant flow control module (10) with multiple valve modules according to claim 10, wherein the second rotor (44b, 206b) further comprises: a first channel (118a, 224) which is integrally formed as part of the second rotor (44b, 206b); and a second channel (118b, 226) which is integrally formed as part of the second rotor (44b, 206b), so that the first channel (118a, 224) of the second rotor (44b, 206b) is fluidically isolated from the second channel (118b, 226) of the second rotor (44b, 206b), and the second channel (118b, 226) of the second rotor (44b, 206b) is in flow communication with two of the several second connections (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b) when the second rotor (44b, 206b) is rotated in at least one of the several configurations; wherein the first channel (48a, 224) of the first rotor (44a, 206a) is in flow communication with the first channel (118a, 224) of the second rotor (44b, 206b) throughout, so that when the first rotor (44a, 206a) and the second rotor (44b, 206b) are rotated in at least one of the several configurations, one of the several first ports (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 218a, 220a) is in flow communication with one of the several second ports (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 218b, 218c, 220b). [13] Coolant flow control module (10) with multiple valve modules according to claim 9, wherein the cylindrical wall (120) of the second rotor (44b, 206b) is part of the first channel (224) of the second rotor (44b, 206b) and a section of the cylindrical wall (120) of the second rotor (44b, 206b) extends into the first channel (48a, 224) of the first rotor (44a, 206a) so that the first rotor (44a, 206a) is in flow communication with the second rotor (44b, 206b). [14] Coolant flow control module (10) with multiple valve modules according to variant B) of claim 9, further comprising: a first coupling (216a) selectively connecting the first rotor (44a, 206a) and the second rotor (44b, 206b); wherein the actuator (20, 214) changes the position of the first rotor (44a, 206a) relative to the second rotor (44b, 206b) when the coupling (216a) separates the first rotor (44a, 206a) and the second rotor (44b, 206b) and the first rotor (44a, 206a) is rotated. [15] Coolant flow control module (10) with multiple valve modules according to claim 9, wherein the at least one channel (144) of the third rotor (44c, 206c) further comprises a tapered section (146) which can direct fluid to or receive fluid from two of the multiple third ports (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 218d) which are integrally formed as part of the third outer housing (12c, 204c) when the first rotor (44a, 206a), the second rotor (44b, 206b) and the third rotor (44c, 206c) are rotated in at least one of the multiple configurations. [16] Coolant flow control module (10) with several valve modules according to variant A) of claim 9, further comprising: an inner cylindrical wall (126) which is integrally formed as part of the second rotor (44b, 206b); an outer nose (126a) which is integrally formed as part of the cylindrical wall (126) of the second rotor (44b, 206b); an upper cylindrical wall (128) which is formed as part of the third rotor (44c, 206c); an upper notch (128a) which is integrally formed as part of the upper cylindrical wall (128) of the third rotor (44c, 206c); wherein the lower cylindrical wall (126), which is formed as part of the second rotor (44b, 206b), is in contact with the upper cylindrical wall (128), which is formed as part of the third rotor (44c, 206c), and the outer nose (126a) engages with the upper notch (128a), so that the second rotor (44b, 206b) and the third rotor (44c, 206c) rotate in unison. [17] Valve arrangement with several valve modules (202a, 202b, 202c, 202d) comprising the following: several valve modules (202a, 202b, 202c, 202d); several shafts (212a, 212b, 212c), wherein each of the several shafts (212a, 212b, 212c) is part of a corresponding of the several valve modules (202a, 202b, 202c, 202d); an actuator (214) connected to one of the several shafts (212a, 212b, 212c); and several couplings (216a, 216b), each of the several couplings (216a, 216b) being operable for selective coupling of two of the several shafts (212a, 212b, 212c); wherein the actuator (214) rotates a first of the several shafts (212a, 212b, 212c) to design a first of the several valve modules (202a, 202b, 202c, 202d) to provide one or more flow paths, and if one or several of the multiple couplings (216a, 216b) two or more of the shafts (212a, 212b, 212c) connects, are one or more of the several valve modules (202a, 202b, 202c, 202d) designed to provide multiple flow paths, each of the multiple valve modules (202a, 202b, 202c, 202d) further comprising: a housing (204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); several terminals (218a, 218b, 218c, 218d, 218e), each of the several terminals (218a, 218b, 218c, 218d, 218e) being formed as part of the housing (204a, 204b, 204c, 204d); a rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) arranged in the housing (204a, 204b, 204c, 204d), wherein the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is selectively in flow communication with the multiple ports (218a, 218b, 218c, 218d, 218e); and at least two flow paths formed by the orientation of the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) with respect to the housing (204a, 204b, 204c, 204d) and the multiple connections (218a, 218b, 218c, 218d, 218e); wherein the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is rotated into one of several configurations with respect to the multiple ports (218a, 218b, 218c, 218d, 218e) and the casings (204a, 204b, 204c, 204d) such that each of the multiple configurations has the at least two flow paths, wherein the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) further comprises the following: a first channel (224) which is integrally formed as part of the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d); a second channel (226) which is integrally formed as part of the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), wherein the second channel (226) is fluidically isolated from the first channel (224); an axis (228) extending through the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), and the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) is rotatable about the axis (228); wherein at least one section of the first channel (224) or of the second channel (226) extends along the axis (228), wherein the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) further comprises the following: a snail (210a, 210b, 210c) connected to one of the several shafts (212a, 212b, 212c); a worm wheel (208a, 208b, 208c) connected to the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d), wherein the worm wheel (208a, 208b, 208c) meshes with the worm (210a, 210b, 210c) so that the worm wheel (208a, 208b, 208c) and the rotor (206a, 206b, 206c, 206d) are rotated when the worm (210a, 210b, 210c) is rotated by one of the several shafts (212a, 212b, 212c). wherein the worm gear (208a, 208b, 208c) circumscribes the first channel (48a, 224) or the second channel (48b, 118b, 226).

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