Valve control device for a coolant circuit of a motor vehicle

Abstract

Valve control device (100) for a coolant circuit of a motor vehicle, comprising the following: a first functional element (120) which is designed to move a valve from a first position to a second position, a second functional element (140) which is designed to move another valve from a first position to a second position, a rotary drive unit (160) which is designed to adjust the first functional element (120) and the second functional element (140) independently of each other, wherein a torque from the rotary drive unit (160) via one of the functional elements (120, 140, 180) to a valve can only be transmitted in one direction, wherein the rotary drive unit (160) has an actuating arm (162) for engaging the functional elements (120, 140, 180).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a valve control device for a coolant circuit of a motor vehicle. The valve control device comprises a first functional element configured to move a valve from a first position to a second position, and a second functional element configured to move another valve from a first position to a second position. The valve control device also includes a drive unit configured to adjust the first and second functional elements. State of the art

[0002] Numerous valve control devices for coolant circuits in motor vehicles are known in the prior art. Such fluid devices are used, for example, to switch or redirect coolant within so-called thermal management modules of electrically powered vehicles. For instance, stepper motors are used to move valves from a first switching position to a second switching position.

[0003] Most valve control devices consist of numerous components and are extremely complex in design, and therefore very expensive.

[0004] For example, US Patent 4,749,004 A relates to a system for regulating airflow in an aircraft to adjust ambient temperature. The system comprises a conventional valve assembly connecting a single inlet pipe to multiple outlet pipes. The valve assembly includes a manifold that provides flow paths between the inlet and outlets. Each outlet contains an operational butterfly valve. A single actuator motor is used to operate all the valves, allowing each valve to be actuated independently.

[0005] DE 10 2016 102 583 A1 relates to another conventional rotary valve for a coolant circuit of an internal combustion engine. The rotary valve comprises a housing with an inlet and outlet, a first rotary valve element having at least two first rotary valve openings, and a second rotary valve element that is rotatable independently of the first rotary valve element and has at least two second rotary valve openings. A drive unit of the rotary valve actuates the first and second rotary valve elements such that they are rotatable relative to each other, allowing fluidic connections between the inlet and outlet to be established by rotating the rotary valve elements.For this purpose, the drive unit has a driveable control ring which is arranged between the rotary valve elements and forms a first freewheel clutch together with the first rotary valve element and a second freewheel clutch together with the second rotary valve element, wherein the freewheel direction of the first freewheel clutch is opposite to the freewheel direction of the second freewheel clutch.

[0006] DE 10 2019 130 952 A1 relates to a conventional control valve arrangement for adjusting at least two coolant flows in a piping system with at least two closing elements for blocking and releasing at least one flow path each, an actuator for positioning the at least two closing elements and at least one coupling with an engagement position in which the actuator is coupled to one of the at least two closing elements in a force-transmitting manner, and an disengagement position in which the actuator is decoupled from one of the at least two closing elements.

[0007] Additionally, the problem arises that increasing complexity necessitates a growing number of actuators, further increasing costs. Alternatively, more powerful actuators must be used to move multiple rotary valves and their associated seals simultaneously.

[0008] A common problem is verifying the valve's current switching position. This is particularly important after a power outage. Another disadvantage arises from the fact that valves can shift due to parameters such as temperature, fluid pressure, or other factors during vehicle operation. To prevent this, actuators typically have a holding current to keep the valves in their switching position. This affects the force required and therefore the actuator's dimensions. Furthermore, it necessitates a continuous power supply for the entire device. Description of the invention

[0009] The object of the invention is to create a valve control device belonging to the aforementioned technical field, which at least partially overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved concept for a valve control device that reduces complexity and cost.

[0010] The solution to the problem is defined by the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0011] According to the invention, the valve control device for a coolant circuit of a motor vehicle comprises a first functional element configured to move a valve from a first position to a second position, and a second functional element configured to move another valve from a first position to a second position. The valve control device also comprises a drive unit configured to adjust the first and second functional elements independently of each other, wherein torque from the drive unit can only be transmitted to a valve via one of the functional elements in one direction.

[0012] This achieves the technical advantage, for example, that multiple functional elements, and thus multiple valves, can be actuated with just one drive unit. For instance, the valve assembly can also include additional valves, meaning that only one drive unit is needed to actuate any number of valves. For example, the valve assembly comprises three functional elements for actuating three valves. For example, the valve assembly comprises four functional elements for actuating four valves. For example, the valve assembly comprises five functional elements for actuating five valves. For example, even more functional elements, each with its own associated valves, are possible.

[0013] Because the functional elements can be adjusted independently, a further advantage arises: the force requirements for the drive unit can be reduced. Since the force requirements influence the dimensions of the drive unit, the drive unit, and thus the entire device, can be made more compact, lighter, and more space-saving. This also results in cost reductions, as lower force requirements for the drive unit translate into lower manufacturing costs.

[0014] An additional advantage arises from the fact that torque from the drive unit can only be transmitted in one direction of rotation via a functional element to a valve. This principle is comparable to a ratchet mechanism, allowing the drive unit to adjust a single functional element in several steps, isolated from the other functional elements.

[0015] In particular, the advantage is that each of the functional elements, and thus each associated valve of the valve control device, can be adjusted and controlled proportionally.

[0016] For example, an additional gearbox can be arranged between the drive unit and the functional elements to deviate from an exemplary radial arrangement of the functional elements or to be able to arrange more functional elements around a drive unit for reasons of space.

[0017] According to the invention, the drive unit is designed as a rotary drive unit. This achieves, for example, the technical advantage that all functional elements can be arranged circularly and adjusted via a centrally located rotary drive unit. Overall, this results in a particularly compact arrangement of the valve control device.

[0018] According to the invention, the rotary drive unit has an actuating arm for engaging the functional elements. This achieves, for example, the technical advantage that with a circular arrangement of the functional elements, any number of functional elements and thus any number of valves can be actuated and adjusted.

[0019] According to another embodiment, each functional element is assigned a freewheel. The freewheel can only transmit torque in one direction of rotation. An example is the freewheel in the hub of a bicycle. The rear wheel continues to rotate freely when the pedal drive is applied more slowly (the rear wheel overtakes the drive) or when the pedals are stopped. This achieves, for example, the technical advantage that individual functional elements can be adjusted independently of the other functional elements. An additional advantage is that the adjustment can be made proportionally in any desired manner.

[0020] To ensure direct torque transmission from the functional elements to their respective valves, each functional element has a transmission shaft for mounting a valve. This achieves, for example, the technical advantage that the valves can be directly actuated and adjusted even when axially separated from the valve control device.

[0021] According to a particular embodiment, each functional element has a first gear for engaging the actuating arm. This achieves, for example, the technical advantage that each functional element can be actuated in an identical manner. For instance, the actuating arm of the rotary drive unit and the first gear of each functional element can be located at the same height in an axial direction, making adjustment of the functional elements particularly simple, trouble-free, and with low friction losses.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the freewheel is arranged as a bearing element between the first gear and the transmission shaft. In this embodiment as well, the freewheel can only transmit torque in one direction of rotation. This again offers the advantage that individual functional elements can be adjusted independently of the other functional elements. An additional advantage is that the adjustment can be made proportionally in any desired manner. Furthermore, the freewheel, as a bearing element between the first gear and the transmission shaft, is positioned in a particularly space-saving manner and is resistant to contamination and wear. Overall, the entire valve control device becomes more compact and reliable.

[0023] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, each functional element has a second gear that is rotationally fixed to the respective transmission shaft. This achieves, for example, the technical advantage that the functional elements, and thus also the associated valves, can be fixed via the second gear. For example, the second gears of all functional elements are suitable for blocking a specific switching state of the valves.

[0024] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the first gear has an axially asymmetrical contour. In other words, each individual gear has an axially asymmetrical contour. For example, the asymmetrical contour can be inclined in one direction, which prevents torque transmission to the first gear due to the inclined contour. The actuating arm thus slides over the inclined contour, resulting in free play in that direction of rotation. In the opposite direction, the gear can, for example, have a straight, downward-sloping contour, which allows torque transmission from the actuating arm to the first gear in the opposite direction of rotation. This achieves the overall technical advantage that torque transmission, and thus the adjustment of the functional element, is not affected.The associated valve can only be operated in one direction of rotation of the drive unit.

[0025] According to another embodiment, the actuating arm has an elastic spring element. For example, the deformation direction of the elastic spring element is essentially orthogonal to the direction of rotation of the rotary drive unit. This achieves, for example, the technical advantage that the actuating arm is deflected against the force of the elastic spring element when it slides over the sloping contour of the first gear. This simplifies freewheeling in this first direction of rotation and, after sliding over the sloping contour, returns the actuating arm to its original position through the restoring force of the elastic spring element.

[0026] To prevent the valves arranged on the valve control device from adjusting themselves due to parameters such as temperature, fluid pressure, or other operating influences, the valve control device has a locking mechanism to block the functional elements. This achieves the additional advantage, for example, that no holding current from the drive unit is required to keep the valves in a defined switching position.

[0027] According to an additional embodiment, the locking device comprises locking units, each assigned to a functional element. This achieves, for example, the technical advantage that each functional element can be individually locked and unlocked. In other words, it is not necessary to unlock all functional elements to adjust only one.

[0028] According to an additional embodiment, each locking unit is designed to engage with the second gear of a functional element. Because the second gear is rotationally fixed to the respective transmission shaft, the locking unit can lock the entire functional element, and thus also the associated valve, by engaging the second gear.

[0029] To enable the locking units to lock automatically, each locking unit has a spring element to move the locking unit into a locking position with the second gear. This achieves the technical advantage, for example, that the restoring force of the spring element automatically returns the locking unit to the locking position.

[0030] Preferably, the drive unit includes a release unit for unlocking the locking device. This offers the technical advantage, for example, that the locking device can be unlocked in a first step and the associated functional element adjusted in an immediately subsequent step. It should be noted, for the sake of completeness, that adjusting the functional element also adjusts the associated valve.

[0031] Particularly preferably, the actuating arm of the unlocking unit is configured such that when a specific functional element is adjusted, only the locking unit associated with that specific functional element is unlocked. This achieves the technical advantage, for example, that only the specific functional element to be adjusted is unlocked. In other words, only the locking unit whose functional element or valve is to be adjusted is unlocked from engagement with the second gear. A further advantage arises from the fact that all remaining functional elements that are not to be adjusted are not unlocked. Thus, all functional elements and all valves associated with them remain in a locked state.

[0032] To determine the precise position of the valves arranged on the valve control device, each functional element has a magnetic body for position detection. For example, a magnetic body is located at one end face of each functional element. The specific arrangement of the magnetic body determines the configuration of magnetic field lines. The position and orientation of these magnetic field lines, in turn, allow conclusions to be drawn about the orientation of the magnet and thus of the respective functional element. The orientation of the functional element is identical to the orientation of the associated valve. Therefore, the switching position of the associated valve can be determined from the orientation of the magnetic field lines. For example, each magnet is assigned a sensor designed to detect the position of the magnetic field lines and transmit this information to a central control unit.

[0033] The invention is defined by the attached claims. Brief description of the drawings

[0034] The drawings used to illustrate the exemplary embodiment show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a valve control device according to one embodiment, Fig. 2. Another perspective view of a valve control device according to a further embodiment, Fig. 3 a perspective view of a valve control device according to an additional embodiment, Fig. 4 a schematic top view of a valve control device according to an alternative embodiment, and Fig. 5 a partial sectional view of a valve control device according to the alternative embodiment Fig. 4.

[0035] Basically, identical parts in the figures are marked with the same reference symbols. Ways to implement the invention

[0036] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a valve control device 100 for a coolant circuit of a motor vehicle according to one embodiment. The valve control device 100 comprises a base 110, which serves to accommodate some components of the valve control device 100. The valve control device 100 has a first functional element 120, a second functional element 140, and a third functional element 180. Each of the functional elements 120, 140, 180 is configured to be connected to a valve via a transmission shaft 126, 146, 186. Thus, each functional element 120, 140, 180 is configured to adjust its respective associated valve and move it from a first position to a second position.

[0037] A rotary drive unit 160 is positioned centrally between the three functional elements 120, 140, and 180. The rotary drive unit 160 has an actuating arm 162, which, through the rotation of the rotary drive unit 160, engages with and adjusts the functional elements 120, 140, and 180. A key aspect here is that the adjustment of the functional elements 120, 140, and 180 can be performed independently of one another, allowing individual functional elements 120, 140, and 180 to be controlled separately while the other functional elements 120, 140, and 180 remain in their original position. To adjust the functional elements 120, 140, and 180, a torque is transmitted from the rotary drive unit 160 to one of the functional elements 120, 140, or 180 via the actuating arm 162. The respective functional element 120, 140, 180 transmits the torque via the associated transmission shaft 126, 146, 186 to a valve arranged on the respective functional element 120, 140, 180.The torque from the rotary drive unit 160 can only be transmitted in one direction of rotation because each of the functional elements 120, 140, 180 also has a freewheel 190. The freewheel 190 can only transmit torque in one direction of rotation, as is the case, for example, with a ratchet mechanism or in the hub of a bicycle. Thus, each individual functional element 120, 140, 180 can be adjusted independently of the other functional elements 120, 140, 180 in any number of steps. The torque is transmitted from the actuating arm 162 to a first gear 122, 142, 182 of the respective functional element 120, 140, 180. Each of the functional elements 120, 140, 180 can therefore be actuated identically. The actuating arm 162 and the first gear 122, 142, 182 of the functional elements 120, 140, 180 lie in the same plane.

[0038] Axially offset from the first gear 122, 142, 182, each functional element 120, 140, 180 includes a second gear 124, 144, 184. The second gears 124, 144, 184 are each rotationally fixed to the respective transmission shaft 126, 146, 186. In other words, torque transmission from one of the second gears 124, 144, 184 to the transmission shaft 126, 146, 186, or vice versa, is possible in both directions of rotation. This clearly distinguishes the second gears 124, 144, 184 from the first gears 122, 142, 182.

[0039] Additionally, a locking device 200 for locking the functional elements 120, 140, and 180 is located between the actuating arm 162 and the base 110 of the valve control device 100. The locking device 200 serves to lock the functional elements 120, 140, and 180, and thus to lock the respective associated valves in a defined switching position. The locking device 200 comprises several locking units 202, each of which is assigned to a functional element 120, 140, or 180. The locking units 202 can be actuated independently of one another, allowing each functional element 120, 140, or 180 to be individually locked and unlocked. Each locking unit 202 has a spring element 204, which automatically moves the locking unit 202 into a locking position with the second gear 124, 144, or 184. In this case, each blocking unit 202 can be tilted between a blocking position and a release position.

[0040] As previously explained, the second gears 124, 144, 184 are each rotationally fixed to the associated transmission shaft 126, 146, 186, thus enabling torque transmission from one of the second gears 124, 144, 184 to the transmission shaft 126, 146, 186 or vice versa in both directions of rotation. Consequently, the locking unit 202 is suitable as a mechanical lock for all functional elements 120, 140, 180, thereby securing the associated valves. This prevents the valves from adjusting themselves due to influences such as temperature or fluid pressure during operation.

[0041] Between the actuating arm 162 and the locking device 200 is a release unit 166 for releasing the locking device 200. The release unit 166 is designed as a pin that extends laterally from the axis of rotation of the rotary drive unit 160. The pin-shaped release unit 166 is fixedly associated with the rotary drive unit 160 and rotates together with the rotary drive unit 160. The pin-shaped release unit 166 and the actuating arm 162 extend in the same direction from the axis of rotation of the rotary drive unit 160.

[0042] Thus, the pin-shaped unlocking unit 166 is configured such that only the locking unit 202 is unlocked which is directly associated with a functional element 120, 140, 180 to be adjusted by the rotary drive unit 160. Therefore, only the specific functional element 120, 140, 180 that is to be adjusted is unlocked. In other words, only the locking unit 202 whose associated functional element 120, 140, 180 or associated valve is to be adjusted is unlocked from engagement with the second gear 124, 144, 184. All remaining functional elements 120, 140, 180 that are not to be adjusted are not unlocked. Thus, all functional elements 120, 140, 180 and all valves assigned to functional elements 120, 140, 180 remain in a blocked state.

[0043] Each locking unit 202 has a sliding contour 203 designed to interact with the pin-shaped release unit 166. The locking unit 202 is moved into the release position by the interaction of the release unit 166 with the sliding contour 203. As the rotary drive unit 160 rotates, the pin-shaped release unit 166 slides over the sliding contour 203 of a specific locking unit 202. During the sliding contour 203 by the pin-shaped release unit 166, the spring element 204 is moved to the release position to move the locking unit 202 into a locking position. As soon as the pin-shaped unlocking unit 166 leaves the engagement unit 202 after sliding over the sliding contour 203, the engagement unit 202 is returned to the blocking position by the associated spring element 204, thereby automatically blocking the associated functional element 120, 140, 180 again.

[0044] The Fig. Figure 2 shows another perspective view of a valve control device 100 according to a further embodiment. Identical features are identified by the same reference numerals. Therefore, a repeated description of identical features is omitted. On one end face, each functional element 120, 140, 180 of the valve control device 100 comprises a magnetic body 220, which serves to detect the position of the respective functional element 120, 140, 180. The magnetic bodies 220 are each arranged directly on the axis of rotation of each functional element 120, 140, 180. The specific arrangement of the magnetic body 220 results in a configuration of magnetic field lines. The position and orientation of the magnetic field lines, in turn, allow conclusions to be drawn about the orientation and arrangement of the magnetic body 220 and thus of the respective functional element 120, 140, 180.The orientation of the functional element 120, 140, 180 is identical to the orientation of the associated valve. Therefore, the switching position of the associated valve can be determined from the orientation of the magnetic field lines. For this purpose, each magnetic body 220 is assigned a sensor designed to detect the position of the magnetic field lines and transmit this information to a central control unit. Additionally, the drive unit 160 also includes a magnetic body 220, which is arranged directly on the rotation axis of the drive unit 160. Thus, it is also possible to check the orientation of the drive unit 160 using a magnetic body 220 and an associated sensor.

[0045] The Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a valve control device 100 according to an additional embodiment. This embodiment shows the valve control device 100 with the base 110, which serves to accommodate some components of the valve control device 100. The valve control device 100 has a first functional element 120, a second functional element 140, a third functional element 180, and a fourth functional element 230. Each of the functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230 is configured to be connected to a valve via a transmission shaft 126, 146, 186, 236. Thus, each functional element 120, 140, 180, 230 is configured to adjust its respective associated valve and move it from a first position to a second position.

[0046] A rotary drive unit 160 is arranged centrally between the four functional elements 120, 140, 180, and 230. The rotary drive unit 160 has an actuating arm 162 which, through the rotation of the rotary drive unit 160, can engage with and adjust the functional elements 120, 140, 180, and 230. A key aspect here is that the adjustment of the functional elements 120, 140, 180, and 230 can be performed independently of one another, allowing individual functional elements 120, 140, 180, and 230 to be controlled individually while the other functional elements 120, 140, 180, and 230 remain in their original position.

[0047] To adjust the functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230, a torque is transmitted from the rotary actuator unit 160 via the actuating arm 162 to one of the functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230. The respective functional element 120, 140, 180, 230 transmits the torque via the associated transmission shaft 126, 146, 186, 236 to a valve located on the respective functional element 120, 140, 180, 230. The torque from the rotary actuator unit 160 can only be transmitted in one direction of rotation.

[0048] Each of the functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230 comprises a first gear 122, 142, 182, 232. The first gears 122, 142, 182, 232 each have an axially asymmetrical contour 147. In other words, each individual gear of the first gears 122, 142, 182, 232 has an axially asymmetrical contour. The asymmetrical contour 147 is inclined in one direction, which prevents torque transmission to the first gear 122, 142, 182, 232 due to the inclined contour. The actuating arm 162 slides over the inclined contour of a first gear 122, 142, 182, 232, creating free rotation in that direction. In the opposite direction of rotation, the first gear 122, 142, 182, 232 has a straight downward contour, which makes it possible to transmit torque in the opposite direction of rotation from the actuating arm 162 to the first gear 122, 142, 182, 232.This means that torque transmission and thus adjustment of the first gear 122, 142, 182, 232, and thus of the respective associated functional element 120, 140, 180, 230 and thus of a valve associated with the functional element 120, 140, 180, 230, is only possible in one direction of rotation of the drive unit 160.

[0049] Additionally, the actuating arm 162 has an elastic spring element 164 whose deformation direction is essentially orthogonal to the direction of rotation of the rotary drive unit. This allows the actuating arm 162 to be deflected against the force of the elastic spring element 164 by sliding over the sloping contour 147 of the first gear 122, 142, 182, 232. This simplifies freewheeling in this first direction of rotation, and the actuating arm 162 is returned to its original position by the restoring force of the elastic spring element 164 after sliding over the sloping contour 147.

[0050] In this respect, the interaction of the first gears 122, 142, 182, 232 with asymmetrical contour 147, which allow torque transmission via the actuating arm 162 only in one direction of rotation and create a freewheel in the opposite direction, forms a freewheel 190. The freewheel 190 is thus implemented as, for example, in a ratchet mechanism or a bicycle hub. Overall, a single functional element 120, 140, 180, 230 can therefore be adjusted in any number of steps independently of the other functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230.

[0051] This embodiment can also optimally include a second gear 124, 144, 184, 234 (not shown) offset axially from the first gear 122, 142, 182, 232. The second gears 124, 144, 184, 234 are each rotationally fixed to their respective transmission shaft 126, 146, 186, 236. In other words, torque transmission from one of the second gears 124, 144, 184, 234 to the transmission shaft 126, 146, 186, 236, or vice versa, is possible in both directions of rotation. This clearly distinguishes the second gears 124, 144, 184, 234 from the first gears 122, 142, 182, 232.

[0052] This embodiment additionally includes a locking device 200 (not shown) for locking the functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230. The locking device 200 thus serves to lock the respective associated valves in a defined switching position. The locking device 200 comprises several locking units 202, each of which is assigned to a functional element 120, 140, 180, 230. The locking units 202 can be actuated independently of one another, allowing each functional element 120, 140, 180, 230 to be individually locked and unlocked. Each locking unit 202 has a spring element 204, which automatically moves the locking unit 202 into a locking position with the second gear 124, 144, 184, 234. Each locking unit 202 can be tilted between a locking position and a release position.

[0053] As already explained, the second gears 124, 144, 184, 234 are each rotationally fixed to the associated transmission shaft 126, 146, 186, 236, which makes it possible to transmit torque from one of the second gears 124, 144, 184, 234 to the transmission shaft 126, 146, 186, 236 or vice versa in both directions of rotation.

[0054] Consequently, the locking unit 202 is suitable as a mechanical block for all functional elements 120, 140, 180, and 230, thereby fixing the associated valves. This prevents the valves from adjusting themselves due to influences such as temperature or fluid pressure during operation.

[0055] This embodiment additionally includes a release unit 166 (not shown) for releasing the locking device 200. The release unit 166 is designed as a pin that extends laterally from the axis of rotation of the rotary drive unit 160. The pin-shaped release unit 166 is fixedly associated with the rotary drive unit 160 and rotates together with the rotary drive unit 160. The pin-shaped release unit 166 is configured such that only the locking unit 202 associated with a functional element 120, 140, 180, or 230 that is directly adjustable by the rotary drive unit 160 is released. Thus, only the specific functional element 120, 140, 180, or 230 that is to be directly adjusted is released. In other words, only the locking unit 202 whose associated functional element 120, 144, 184, 234 is engaged with the second gear 124, 144, 184, 234 is unlocked.The assigned valve is to be adjusted. All remaining functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230, which are not to be adjusted, are also not unlocked. Thus, all functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230 and all valves assigned to functional elements 120, 140, 180, 230 remain in a blocked state.

[0056] Each locking unit 202 has a sliding contour 203 (not shown) designed to interact with the pin-shaped release unit 166. The locking unit 202 is moved into the release position by the interaction of the release unit 166 with the sliding contour 203. As the rotary drive unit 160 rotates, the pin-shaped release unit 166 slides over the sliding contour 203 of a specific locking unit 202. During the sliding contour 203 by the pin-shaped release unit 166, the spring element 204 is moved from the locking position to the release position. As soon as the pin-shaped unlocking unit 166 leaves the engagement unit 202 after sliding over the sliding contour 203, the engagement unit 202 is returned to the blocking position by the associated spring element 204, thereby automatically blocking the associated functional element 120, 140, 180, 230 again.

[0057] The Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic top view of a valve control device 100 according to an alternative embodiment. The valve control device 100 has a first functional element 120, a second functional element 140, and a third functional element 180. Each of the functional elements 120, 140, 180 is configured to be connected to a valve via a transmission shaft 126, 146, 186. Thus, each functional element 120, 140, 180 is configured to adjust its respective associated valve and move it from a first position to a second position.

[0058] A rotary drive unit 160 is arranged centrally between the three functional elements 120, 140, and 180. The rotary drive unit 160 has an actuating arm 162, which, through the rotation of the rotary drive unit 160, can engage with and adjust the functional elements 120, 140, and 180. A key aspect here is that the adjustment of the functional elements 120, 140, and 180 can be performed independently of one another, allowing individual functional elements 120, 140, and 180 to be controlled separately while the other functional elements 120, 140, and 180 remain in their original position.

[0059] To adjust the functional elements 120, 140, 180, a torque is transmitted from the rotary drive unit 160 via the actuating arm 162 to one of the functional elements 120, 140, 180. The respective functional element 120, 140, 180 transmits the torque via the associated transmission shaft 126, 146, 186 to a valve located on the respective functional element 120, 140, 180. The torque from the rotary drive unit 160 can only be transmitted in one direction of rotation because each of the functional elements 120, 140, 180 also has a freewheel 190. The freewheel 190 can only transmit torque in one direction of rotation, as is the case, for example, with a ratchet mechanism or in the hub of a bicycle. In summary, a single functional element 120, 140, 180 can therefore be adjusted in any number of steps in isolation from the other functional elements 120, 140, 180.

[0060] The torque is transmitted from the actuating arm 162 to a first gear 122, 142, 182 of the respective functional element 120, 140, 180. Each of the functional elements 120, 140, 180 can thus be actuated identically. The actuating arm 162 and the first gear 122, 142, 182 of each functional element 120, 140, 180 lie in the same plane. Axially offset from the first gear 122, 142, 182, each functional element 120, 140, 180 includes a second gear 124, 144, 184 (not shown). The second gears 124, 144, 184 are each rotationally fixed to the respective transmission shaft 126, 146, 186. In other words, torque transmission from one of the second gears 124, 144, 184 to the transmission shaft 126, 146, 186 or vice versa is possible in both directions of rotation. This clearly distinguishes the second gears 124, 144, 184 from the first gears 122, 142, 182.

[0061] Additionally, a locking device 200 for locking the functional elements 120, 140, and 180 is located between the actuating arm 162 and the base 110 of the valve control device 100. The locking device 200 serves to lock the functional elements 120, 140, and 180, and thus to lock the respective associated valves in a defined switching position. The locking device 200 has an annular engagement element 206 for engaging and locking all functional elements 120, 140, and 180. The annular engagement element 206 is mechanically moved from a release position to a locking position in order to lock the entire valve control device 100, including the associated valves.

[0062] The annular engagement element 206 is arranged coaxially with the drive unit 160 and has a spring element 208 (not shown) for moving the engagement element 206 into a locking position with the functional elements 120, 140, and 180. The spring element 208 thus enables all functional elements 120, 140, and 180 to be locked simultaneously. Above the engagement element 206 is a release unit 166 for unlocking the locking device 200. The release unit 166 is designed as a pin that extends laterally from the axis of rotation of the rotary drive unit 160. The pin-shaped release unit 166 is fixedly associated with the rotary drive unit 160 and rotates together with the rotary drive unit 160.

[0063] The Fig. Figure 5 shows a partial sectional view of a valve control device 100 according to the alternative embodiment. Fig. 4. The valve control device 100 comprises the base 110, which carries some components of the valve control device 100. For simplified illustration, the Fig. 4. The valve control device 100 with the first functional element 120. The functional element 120 is designed to be connected to a valve via a transmission shaft 126 (not shown). Thus, all functional elements 120, 140, 180 are designed to adjust their respective assigned valves and move them from a first position to a second position.

[0064] Next to the functional element 120 is the rotary drive unit 160 with the actuating arm 162, which, through the rotation of the rotary drive unit 160, can engage with the functional elements 120, 140, and 180 to adjust them. The rotary drive unit 160 generates a torque that is transmitted via the actuating arm 162 to one of the functional elements 120, 140, or 180. The torque transmission occurs from the actuating arm 162 to a first gear 122, 142, or 182 of the respective functional element 120, 140, or 180. Each of the functional elements 120, 140, or 180 can thus be actuated identically. The actuating arm 162 and the respective first gear 122, 142, or 182 of the functional elements 120, 140, or 180 lie in the same plane.

[0065] Axially offset from the first gear 122, 142, 182, each functional element 120, 140, 180 comprises a second gear 124, 144, 184. The second gears 124, 144, 184 are each rotationally fixed to the respective transmission shaft 126, 146, 186. In other words, torque transmission from one of the second gears 124, 144, 184 to the transmission shaft 126, 146, 186 or vice versa is possible in both directions of rotation. The locking device 200 for locking the functional elements 120, 140, 180 is arranged between the actuating arm 162 and the base 110 of the valve control device 100. The blocking device 200 serves to block the functional elements 120, 140, 180 and thus to block the respective associated valves in a defined switching position. The blocking device 200 has an annular engagement element 206 for engaging and blocking all functional elements 120, 140, 180.The ring-shaped engagement means 206 is mechanically moved from a release position to a blocking position in order to block the entire valve control device 100 including the associated valves.

[0066] The annular engagement element 206 is arranged coaxially with the drive unit 160 and has a spring element 208 (not shown) for moving the engagement element 206 into a locking position with the functional elements 120, 140, and 180. The spring element 208 thus enables all functional elements 120, 140, and 180 to be locked simultaneously. Above the engagement element 206 is a release unit 166 for unlocking the locking device 200. The release unit 166 is designed as a pin that extends laterally from the axis of rotation of the rotary drive unit 160. The pin-shaped release unit 166 is fixedly associated with the rotary drive unit 160 and rotates together with the rotary drive unit 160.

[0067] The ring-shaped engagement element 206 has a detent contour 210, which makes the engagement element 206 resemble an ashtray including cigarette notches. As the rotary drive unit 160 rotates, the pin-shaped release unit 166 slides along the upper edge of the ring-shaped engagement element 206. During this slide along the upper edge, the engagement element 206 is held in a release position against the spring element 208 by the pin-shaped release unit 166. In the release position, the position of a functional element 120, 140, or 180 can be adjusted. As soon as the pin-shaped unlocking unit 166 enters the detent contour 210 of the engagement means 206 while sliding along the upper edge, the engagement means 206 is moved into the blocking position by the associated spring element 208, thereby blocking all functional elements 120, 140, 180 simultaneously.

[0068] If a valve is to be moved from a first position to a second position, the rotary actuator unit 160 engages the functional element 120, 140, 180 associated with the valve and moves the functional element 120, 140, 180 accordingly from a first position to a second position. For the rotary actuator unit 160 to move the functional element 120, 140, 180 from the first position to the second position, at least the functional element 120, 140, 180 to be adjusted must first be unlocked. This occurs when the pin-shaped unlocking unit 166 is automatically released from a detent contour 210 of the engagement element 206 by the torque of the rotary actuator unit 160, thereby moving the engagement element 206 against the spring element 208 in the release position.This unlocks the functional elements 120, 140, 180, and the rotary drive unit 160 can then move the functional element 120, 140, 180 from the first position to the second position. The release position of the engagement means 206 remains in place until the pin-shaped unlocking unit 166 enters the next ratchet contour 210.

Claims

[1] Valve control device (100) for a coolant circuit of a motor vehicle, comprising the following: a first functional element (120) which is designed to move a valve from a first position to a second position, a second functional element (140) which is designed to move another valve from a first position to a second position, a rotary drive unit (160) which is designed to adjust the first functional element (120) and the second functional element (140) independently of each other, wherein a torque from the rotary drive unit (160) via one of the functional elements (120, 140, 180) to a valve can only be transmitted in one direction, wherein the rotary drive unit (160) has an actuating arm (162) for engaging the functional elements (120, 140, 180). [2] Valve control device (100) according to claim 1, wherein each of the functional elements (120, 140, 180) is associated with a freewheel (190). [3] Valve control device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the functional elements (120, 140, 180) each have a transmission shaft (126, 146, 186) for arranging a valve. [4] Valve control device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the functional elements (120, 140, 180) each have a first gear (122, 142, 182) for engaging the actuating arm (162). [5] Valve control device (100) according to claim 2, wherein the functional elements (120, 140, 180) each have a transmission shaft (126, 146, 186) for arranging a valve, wherein the functional elements (120, 140, 180) each have a first gear (122, 142, 182) for engaging the actuating arm (162), and wherein the freewheel (190) is arranged as a bearing element between the first gear (122) and the transmission shaft (126). [6] Valve control device (100) according to claim 4 in combination with claim 3, wherein the functional elements (120, 140, 180) each have a second gear (124, 144, 184) which is non-rotatably connected to the respective transmission shaft (126, 146, 186). [7] Valve control device (100) according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the first gear (142) has a contour (147) that is asymmetrical in the axial direction. [8] Valve control device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating arm (162) has an elastic spring element (164). [9] Valve control device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the valve control device (100) has a blocking device (200) for blocking the functional elements (120, 140, 180). [10] Valve control device (100) according to claim 9, wherein the blocking device (200) comprises blocking units (202) each assigned to a functional element (120, 140, 180). [11] Valve control device (100) according to claim 10, wherein each blocking unit (202) is designed to engage with the second gear (124, 144, 184) of a functional element (120, 140, 180). [12] Valve control device (100) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein each locking unit (202) has a spring element (204) for moving the locking unit (202) into a locking position with the second gear (124, 144, 184). [13] Valve control device (100) according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the drive unit (160) has a release unit (166) for unlocking the locking device (200). [14] Valve control device (100) according to claim 13, wherein the actuating arm (162) of the unlocking unit (166) is assigned such that when adjusting a specific functional element (120, 140, 180) only the locking unit (202) assigned to the specific functional element (120, 140, 180) is unlocked. [15] Valve control device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each functional element (120, 140, 180) has a magnetic body (220) for detecting a position.

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