Device for regulating the flow and distribution of a fluid in a fluid circuit

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for controlling the flow and distributing a fluid in a fluid circuit, in particular a refrigerant in a refrigerant circuit. The device (1) has a housing (2) with fluid connections (2a, 2b, 2c) for connecting to fluid lines, each of which is connected via at least one through-opening to an inner volume of the housing (2) designed as a valve chamber (3), and a valve element (4) arranged in the valve chamber (3) with a drive element (5) for moving the valve element (4) relative to the housing (2).The valve element (4) is arranged to be linearly displaceable in an axial direction along a longitudinal axis between a first end position and a second end position such that a passage for the fluid is open between a first fluid port (2a) and a second fluid port (2b) and / or between the first fluid port (2a) and a third fluid port (2c). The valve element (4) is essentially designed in the form of a hollow cylinder consisting of at least two sections (4a, 4b). The invention also relates to the use of the device (1) in a refrigerant circuit of a thermal system, in particular of a motor vehicle.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for regulating a flow and distributing a fluid in a fluid circuit, in particular a refrigerant in a refrigerant circuit. The device comprises a housing with fluid connections for connecting to fluid lines, each of which is connected via at least one through-opening to at least one internal volume of the housing designed as a valve chamber, as well as at least one valve element arranged in the valve chamber with a drive element for moving the valve element relative to the housing. The invention also relates to a use of the device in a refrigerant circuit of a thermal system, in particular of a motor vehicle.

[0002] In state-of-the-art motor vehicles, the high demand for passenger comfort in the passenger compartment is met by air conditioning systems with different circuits for refrigerant and coolant, each with differently operated heat exchangers. Refrigerant circuits of conventional air conditioning systems can be designed to operate in both a heat pump mode and a refrigeration system mode to distribute thermal energy within the vehicle.

[0003] For example, particularly when operating the refrigerant circuit in heat pump mode, heat from the ambient air can be transferred to the refrigerant by means of a refrigerant-to-air heat exchanger or heat from a coolant circuit can be transferred to the refrigerant by means of a refrigerant-to-coolant heat exchanger. This heat can then be transferred to components of the vehicle requiring heat or to the supply air to the passenger compartment. The refrigerant-to-air heat exchanger or the refrigerant-to-coolant heat exchanger is each operated as an evaporator for the refrigerant.

[0004] When the refrigerant circuit is operated in a refrigeration system mode, heat can be absorbed from the passenger compartment or from the supply air to the passenger compartment or other components and transferred to the environment, for example, in the refrigerant-to-air heat exchanger. The refrigerant-to-air heat exchanger is operated as a condenser or, with carbon dioxide as the refrigerant, possibly also as a gas cooler.

[0005] When the refrigerant is liquefied during subcritical operation of the refrigerant circuit, such as with the refrigerant R1234yf, R290, or R152a, or under certain ambient conditions with carbon dioxide, the heat exchanger is referred to as a condenser. Part of the heat transfer takes place at a constant temperature. During supercritical operation, or supercritical heat dissipation in the heat exchanger, the temperature of the refrigerant decreases continuously. In this case, the heat exchanger is also referred to as a gas cooler. Supercritical operation can occur under certain ambient conditions or operating modes of the refrigerant circuit, particularly with the refrigerant carbon dioxide.

[0006] The working process with carbon dioxide as a refrigerant differs thermodynamically from processes with other refrigerants, for example in the supercritical heat release as an isobaric, non-isothermal change of state of the refrigerant, compared to the isobaric, isothermal change of state of the subcritical heat release in a classic cold vapor process, for example with R1234yf, R290 or R152a as the refrigerant. The terms supercritical and subcritical heat release refer to the critical point as the characteristic state of the refrigerant. With supercritical heat release, the process is also referred to as a transcritical process. The process of condensation or gas cooling as a process of heat release with carbon dioxide as a refrigerant takes place at a significantly higher pressure level than in processes with conventional refrigerants.

[0007] In order to be able to operate the heat exchangers in different functions depending on the operating mode of the air conditioning system, in particular of the refrigerant circuit, for example as an evaporator on the one hand and as a condenser / gas cooler of the refrigerant on the other hand, the corresponding heat exchangers are integrated at different points within the refrigerant circuit and are thus supplied with refrigerant under different conditions.

[0008] A multitude of valves and connecting lines are required to provide the various functions of the refrigerant circuit. Each valve has an actuator and must be connected to a control unit, resulting in a high level of system complexity. This results in high costs and a high weight of the refrigerant circuit. Furthermore, it requires considerable installation space.

[0009] In a refrigerant circuit using carbon dioxide as the refrigerant, a great deal of force is required, particularly to adjust the valve between functions at differential pressures of up to 100 bar.

[0010] For example, to ensure the function of a 3 / 2-way valve—that is, a valve with three ports and two switching positions for carbon dioxide as a refrigerant—two separate valves are used in the prior art, for example, as a so-called double valve. Metal-sealed needle valves—that is, valves with valve bodies designed as needles—are preferably used to seal and control the flow.

[0011] DE 10 2020 101 031 A1 discloses a 3 / 2-way valve as a device for regulating a flow and distributing a fluid in a refrigerant circuit. The device comprises a housing with connections for connecting to fluid lines, each of which is connected via a through-opening to at least one internal volume of the housing designed as a valve chamber, and at least one valve element arranged in the valve chamber with a drive element for moving the valve element relative to the housing. The at least one valve element is mounted so as to be linearly displaceable in the axial direction along a longitudinal axis such that a passage for the fluid can be opened between a first connection designed as an inlet and a second connection designed as a first outlet or a third connection designed as a second outlet.The valve element is designed in the form of a cylinder aligned in the axial direction with a first portion having the shape of a needle and a second portion having the shape of a needle, which are arranged spaced apart from one another in the axial direction and are connected to one another via a coupling element.

[0012] The device comprises at least two soft sealing elements, preferably made of rubber, two housings for the respective needle-shaped sections of the valve element, and a plurality of interacting components. To ensure the required tightness of the device, very high precision is required in the manufacture of the components and their assembly into the device. In addition, the soft sealing elements are damaged as a result of the movement of the valve element with the sealing edges formed thereon along the sealing elements, so that they no longer fulfill the function of providing a seal. Furthermore, the design of the two soft sealing elements requires a very high base torque for moving the valve element.

[0013] The object of the invention is to provide a device for regulating a flow and distributing a fluid in a fluid circuit, in particular in a refrigerant circuit, of a thermal system of a motor vehicle. The device should combine valve functions in order to minimize the complexity of the system, as well as the costs, weight, and installation space. Furthermore, the device should be easy to operate, particularly with little effort, and fluid-tight when used in circuits with carbon dioxide as the circulating fluid and thus at very high operating pressures and temperatures, in particular pressures of up to 170 bar and temperatures of up to 165°C.

[0014] The problem is solved by the subject matter having the features of the independent patent claims. Further developments are specified in the dependent patent claims.

[0015] The object is achieved by a device for regulating the flow and distributing a fluid in at least one fluid circuit, in particular a refrigerant in a refrigerant circuit. The device comprises a housing with fluid connections for connecting to fluid lines, each of which is connected via at least one through-opening to at least one internal volume of the housing designed as a valve chamber, as well as at least one valve element arranged in the valve chamber with a drive element for moving the valve element relative to the housing.

[0016] According to the concept of the invention, the at least one valve element is mounted so as to be linearly displaceable in an axial direction along a longitudinal axis between a first end position and a second end position in such a way that a passage for the fluid is opened between a first fluid connection, which is designed in particular as an inlet, and a second fluid connection, which is designed in particular as a first outlet, or between the first fluid connection and a third fluid connection, which is designed in particular as a second outlet.

[0017] The valve element can be arranged in intermediate positions between the two end positions such that a passage for the fluid is at least partially open between the first fluid connection and both the second fluid connection and the third fluid connection.

[0018] Furthermore, according to the invention, the valve element is essentially designed in the form of a hollow cylinder consisting of at least two sections. The sections represent a valve needle of a needle valve, specifically a hollow needle of a hollow needle valve.

[0019] According to a further development of the invention, a wall of the valve element has flow openings, which are preferably arranged around the entire circumference of the valve element. The centers of the flow openings, which advantageously have a circular flow cross-section, are preferably arranged on a plane that is oriented, in particular, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the valve element. The flow openings can be distributed evenly over the circumference of the wall and, in particular, can be formed with the same diameter.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a first section and a second section of the valve element are arranged spaced apart from one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis and connected to one another via a third section. The third section is arranged between the first section and the second section in the longitudinal direction of the valve element. The sections of the valve element are aligned along the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the valve element is arranged coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the device, so that the longitudinal axes of the valve element and the device are identical.

[0021] The second section of the valve element is preferably designed in the form of a hollow cylinder that is substantially rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis, in particular a hollow circular cylinder, with a bottom open on both sides. The second section is connected to the first section of the valve element at a first end via the third section. The axis of symmetry of the hollow circular cylinder runs coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the valve element. In particular, a wall of the second section of the valve element has the flow openings in the region of the first end.

[0022] The second portion of the valve element preferably has a larger diameter than the first portion of the valve element.

[0023] The third section of the valve element is advantageously designed rotationally symmetrically about the longitudinal axis in the shape of a bell with a cross-section tapering in the direction of the longitudinal axis and having two open bases. In particular, an edge of an open first base of the third section with a maximum diameter is fully connected to an edge of the second section of the valve element that extends around a first end. The maximum diameter of the open first base of the third section of the valve element corresponds to the diameter of the edge that extends around the first end of the second section.

[0024] An edge of an open second base of the third section of the valve element with a small diameter is advantageously fully connected to an edge of the first section of the valve element that extends circumferentially at a second end. The small diameter of the open second base of the third section of the valve element corresponds to the diameter of the edge that extends circumferentially around the second end of the first section.

[0025] A further advantage of the invention is that an open bottom of the hollow cylindrical valve element, which corresponds to a second end of the second section of the valve element distal to the first end, is oriented toward the through-opening of the first fluid connection of the housing. The diameter of the open bottom of the second end of the second section of the valve element corresponds approximately to the diameter of the through-opening of the first fluid connection of the housing.

[0026] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one through-opening of the second fluid connection and the at least one through-opening of the third fluid connection each open into a flow channel. The respective flow channel is formed between an outer side of the valve element and the housing, in particular as an annular channel surrounding the valve element.

[0027] When the valve element is arranged in the first end position, the flow openings of the valve element are advantageously arranged entirely in the region of the flow channel of the second fluid connection such that a flow path between the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection is opened through the valve element. The valve element is arranged such that there is no fluidic connection between the internal volume of the valve element, and thus the first fluid connection, and the flow channel of the third fluid connection.

[0028] When the valve element is arranged in the second end position, the flow openings of the valve element are preferably arranged entirely in the region of the flow channel of the third fluid connection such that a flow path between the first fluid connection and the third fluid connection is opened through the valve element. The valve element is arranged such that there is no fluidic connection between the internal volume of the valve element, and thus the first fluid connection, and the flow channel of the second fluid connection.

[0029] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one through-opening of the first fluid connection is aligned in the axial direction of the valve element, while the at least one through-opening of the second fluid connection or the at least one through-opening of the third fluid connection are preferably aligned in the radial direction of the valve element. The through-openings of the second fluid connection and the third fluid connection are preferably arranged at a distance from one another in the axial direction.

[0030] According to a further development of the invention, at least two sealing areas are formed between the housing and the valve element. In each of the sealing areas, the valve element rests directly against the housing over its entire circumference. The sealing areas are thus advantageously each formed as a metallic seal. A first sealing area is arranged in the axial direction, in particular between the first fluid connection and the third fluid connection, while a second sealing area is arranged between the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection.

[0031] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a sealing element is provided between the housing and the valve element, which sealing element is designed in particular as a sealing ring and bears fully against the valve element. The sealing element is arranged in the axial direction, in particular between the second fluid connection and the third fluid connection, sealing the fluid connections from one another.

[0032] The device can be configured such that the fluid expands as it flows through the device. The device can also be designed to allow bidirectional fluid flow.

[0033] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one valve element is connected via an actuating element to a drive element arranged outside the housing.

[0034] The actuating element is preferably designed as a drive shaft aligned in the axial direction. In particular, the actuating element is arranged at a first end fixedly connected to the drive element and at a second end distal to the first end, extending into the housing and connected to the valve element.

[0035] The drive element can be designed as a linear motor or as a rotary motor with a transmission arrangement, in particular a thread, and a sliding rotation lock element for transmitting a rotational movement of the drive element about the longitudinal axis into a linear movement of the valve element in the direction of the longitudinal axis relative to the housing. The transmission arrangement, in conjunction with the sliding rotation lock element, serves to transmit the rotational movement of the drive element or the actuating element about its longitudinal axis into a translational stroke movement of the valve element, wherein the translational stroke movement corresponds to a linear movement.

[0036] A drive element provided as a rotary motor is preferably designed as an electric actuator, in particular as a stepper motor or servomotor, which advantageously allows, for example, the control of the angular position. The motor can be equipped with a sensor for position determination. The rotational position of the connecting element determined by the sensor can be continuously transmitted to control electronics, which regulates the movement of the motor in a control loop according to adjustable setpoints, such as the target angular positions of the connecting element.

[0037] The transmission arrangement is advantageously designed as a threaded pairing between the actuating element and the valve element. The actuating element is arranged so that it is inserted into an opening of the valve element, in particular the first section of the valve element. The actuating element preferably has an external thread on an outer side, while an internal thread corresponding to the external thread is formed within the opening of the valve element.

[0038] The device advantageously represents a combination of two valves, in particular two shut-off valves, as a 3 / 2-way valve, especially with a hollow needle as the valve element as a passage for the fluid and an actuator. The fluid, especially the refrigerant, is guided from the inlet to the first or primary and / or second or secondary outlet.

[0039] A mass flow of fluid flowing into the device can therefore be directed through one of the two outlets, while the other of the two outlets is sealed and thus closed. Between the end positions of the valve element, in which the mass flow flows out of the device through the two outlets with a distribution of 100% / 0% or 0% / 100%, the flow cross-sections of the outlets are proportional to each other.

[0040] The use of such a device in air conditioning systems, particularly in motor vehicles, with a refrigerant circuit using carbon dioxide as the refrigerant often requires bidirectional flow through at least some components, since the flow direction of the refrigerant within the refrigerant circuit is reversed, for example, between the refrigeration system and heat pump modes, also known as heating mode. The device can also fulfill this function and allow flow in two directions, or bidirectionally.

[0041] The device according to the invention is designed as a highly integrated component, specifically as a refrigerant valve, for performing multiple functions. The device combines the functions of individual valves.

[0042] The advantageous embodiment of the invention enables the use of the device for regulating a flow and distributing a fluid in a refrigerant circuit of a thermal system, in particular a thermal management system, of a motor vehicle, for example, for conditioning an air mass flow to be supplied to a passenger compartment or a component of a drive train. The device then also serves as an adaptive multi-way refrigerant valve for vehicle air conditioning.

[0043] The refrigerant circuit in which a device is used can be operated with any refrigerant, in particular R1234yf, R1234a, R134a, R744, R404a, R600 or R600a, R290, R152a, R32 and their mixtures.

[0044] The device according to the invention, preferably designed as an electrically driven 3 / 2-way needle valve for the refrigerant carbon dioxide, has, in particular as a highly variable refrigerant valve with a plurality of possible flow paths for the refrigerant, various advantages in summary: - Combining different valve functions, especially two valves, especially shut-off valves, in one 3 / 2-way valve, - Reducing the complexity of assembly leads to simple control and a lower probability of errors and failures, which reduces expected warranty costs, - easy operation also by reducing the required actuating force to move the valve element, in particular by the pressure equalization on the valve element, which is in a nearly isostatic state and no resulting pressure forces act on the valve element, especially in the axial direction, - Minimizing weight, also because only one actuator is required and connecting cables are eliminated, - Minimizing refrigerant leakage by eliminating the need for connecting lines and sealing points, thereby reducing costs for the end customer in the event of service, - long service life, since the valve element is essentially metallic and thus wear-resistant and a possible soft sealing element is not moved along or over a sealing edge and - minimal manufacturing, maintenance and operating costs as well as minimal required installation space.

[0045] Further details, features, and advantages of embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of an embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1a: a first device for regulating a flow of a fluid in a fluid circuit, designed as a double valve comprising two separate valves, with a housing having an inlet and two outlets, as well as with two valve elements, each arranged in a valve chamber of the common housing, from the prior art, in a side sectional view, Fig. 1b: a second device for regulating a flow of a fluid in a fluid circuit with a housing having an inlet and two outlets and with a valve element arranged in a valve chamber from the prior art in a side sectional view, Fig. 2: a device according to the invention for regulating a flow of a fluid in a fluid circuit, in particular a refrigerant in a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system of a motor vehicle, with a housing and a valve element arranged within the housing in a perspective sectional view, Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b: the device from Fig. 2 in the open state of a first outlet and the closed state of a second outlet of the device as well as in the closed state of the first outlet and the open state of the second outlet of the device, each in a lateral sectional view, Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b: the device from the Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b in detailed views and Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b: the device from the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b in detailed views showing pressure equalization.

[0046] In Fig. 1a shows a first device 1' designed as a double valve comprising two separate valves for regulating a flow of a fluid in a fluid circuit with a housing 2' with an inlet and two outlets as well as with two valve elements 4' from the prior art, each arranged in a valve chamber 3' of the common housing 2', in a lateral sectional view.

[0047] The housing 2' of the device 1' is designed with a first fluid port 2a', a second fluid port 2b', and a third fluid port 2c', each for connecting to fluid lines. A through-opening to the first fluid port 2a' is aligned in the axial direction of the valve elements 4', while through-openings of the second fluid port 2b' and the third fluid port 2c' are each aligned in the radial direction of the valve element 4'. The device 1' can be operated as a 3 / 2-way valve.

[0048] The device 1', which is particularly designed as two electrically driven valves, has a drive element 5' for each valve, which sets a drive shaft provided as an actuating element 6' in rotation. The drive element 5' is designed, for example, as an electric servomotor for driving the actuating element 6'.

[0049] With the aid of a transmission arrangement 7' provided on the actuating element 6' oriented in an axial direction, the rotational movement of the actuating element 6' about its longitudinal axis is transferred into a translational stroke movement of the valve element 4', which is preferably designed as a valve needle. The translational stroke movement corresponds to a linear movement 8' of the valve element 4' in the axial direction, i.e., in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the actuating element 6' and the valve element 4'. The transmission arrangement 7' is provided between the actuating element 6' and the valve element 4'. The actuating element 6', which essentially has the shape of a cylindrical rod, in particular a round rod with sections of different diameters, is inserted with a free end into an opening formed in the valve element 4'. The free end of the actuating element 6' is arranged distally to an end connected to the drive element 5'.

[0050] Each valve element 4' is arranged in a valve seat element 9'. The valve element 4', which moves linearly in the axial direction and extends substantially in the axial direction, is held by a sliding rotation lock element 10', which prevents rotational movement of the valve element 4' about the axial direction or the longitudinal axis of the valve element 4' and permits linear movement 8' in the axial direction.

[0051] The valve elements 4' are each arranged in a sealing manner via two sealing elements 11', 12', in particular to the housing 2' and the valve seat element 9', respectively. A first sealing element 11' is designed as a seat seal, in particular as a valve seat seal, and is arranged between the housing 2', the valve element 4', and the valve seat element 9', while a second sealing element 12' is designed as a sliding seal, in particular a rod seal, in the form of an axial seal or an annular seal.

[0052] Due to the dimensions of the electric drive, only a limited amount of force is available to move the valve element 4', i.e., the valve needle. Furthermore, a tight fit of the valve element 4' within the valve seat element 9' must be ensured in the de-energized state of the electric drive element 5' and at temperatures from -40 °C to +120 °C, in particular up to +165 °C. By generating a force acting on the valve element 4' and thus pressing the valve element 4' into the valve seat element 9', the valve element 4' can be held by the transmission arrangement 7', which is designed as a self-locking movement thread.However, a combination of the force pressing the valve element 4' into the valve seat element 9' with a change in temperature and the associated different expansion of the components leads to jamming of the components, in particular the valve element 4' within the first sealing element 11'.

[0053] Out of Fig. 1b shows a second device 1'' for regulating a flow of a fluid in a fluid circuit with a valve element 4'' arranged in a common housing 2'' from the prior art in a lateral sectional view. The device 1'' is two separate valves, according to the device 1' from Fig. 1a, designed to replace, in particular to reduce the number of two valves to one component.

[0054] The device 1'' has the housing 2'' with a first fluid connection 2a'' as an inlet for the fluid, a second fluid connection 2b'' as a first outlet for the fluid, and a third fluid connection 2c'' as a second outlet for the fluid. The fluid connections 2a'', 2b'', 2c'' for fluid lines as connecting lines to other components of the fluid circuit are each connected to an internal volume of the housing 2'' via through openings. The through openings of the fluid connections 2a'', 2b'', 2c'' each open into a valve chamber 3''. The valve element 4'' is arranged within the valve chamber 3''.

[0055] The valve element 4'', which is essentially formed from three sections 4a'', 4b'', 4c'', has a cylindrical shape with circular cross-sections. Two outer sections 4a'', 4b'', which are arranged at a distance from one another in the direction of the axis of symmetry and thus in the longitudinal direction of the valve element 4'', are firmly connected to one another via a section 4c'' referred to as the coupling element. A first section 4a'' and a second section 4b'' are also referred to as the first valve needle and the second valve needle. A third section 4c'', formed as the coupling element, is provided in the longitudinal direction of the valve element 4'' between the outer sections 4a'', 4b''. The sections 4a'', 4b'', 4c'' are arranged aligned on a common axis of symmetry or longitudinal axis.

[0056] The valve element 4'' is arranged in a valve seat element 9a'', 9b'', both in the region of the first section 4a'' and in the region of the second section 4b'', so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction. The valve seat elements 9a'', 9b'', which are sealed to the housing 2'' and the valve element 4'' by sealing elements 11'', 12'', enable a linear movement 8'' of the valve element 4'' in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0057] The valve element 4'' is connected via an actuating element 6'' to a drive element 5'', also referred to as an actuator, arranged outside the housing 2''. The longitudinal axes of the valve element 4'' and the actuating element 6'' are aligned coaxially with one another. The actuating element 6'', designed, for example, as a shaft, is fixedly connected to the drive element 5'' at a first end. With its second end, designed distally to the first end, the actuating element 6'' is arranged in a sealed manner to the housing 2'' through the wall of the housing 2'', protruding into the housing 2'' at an end face. The drive element 5'' is designed, for example, as an electric servomotor for driving the actuating element 6''. The cylindrical valve element 4'', which extends essentially in the axial direction, is guided in the linear movement 8'' in the axial direction, i.e., in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the actuating element 6''.

[0058] By linearly moving the valve element 4'', the first fluid port 2a'', serving as the fluid inlet, is fluidly connected either to the second fluid port 2b'', serving as the first fluid outlet, or to the third fluid port 2c'', serving as the second fluid outlet. With a specific arrangement of the valve element 4'', the first fluid port 2a'' can be fluidly connected to both the second fluid port 2b'' and the third fluid port 2c''.

[0059] The devices 1', 1'' from the prior art have at least two rapidly wearing sealing elements 11', 11'', 12', 12'', two housings 2' or one elaborately designed housing 2'' and a multitude of components.

[0060] Ensuring the required tightness of the device 1', 1'' requires extremely high precision in the manufacture of the components and their assembly to the device 1', 1''. Due to the movement of the respective valve element 4', 4'' with its sealing edges along the sealing elements 11', 11'', 12', 12'', the sealing elements 11', 11'', 12', 12'' are damaged, so that the sealing elements 11', 11'', 12', 12'' cannot fulfill their sealing function.

[0061] In Fig. 2 shows a perspective sectional view of a device 1 according to the invention for regulating the flow of a fluid in a fluid circuit, in particular a refrigerant in a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system of a motor vehicle, comprising a housing 2 and a valve element 4 arranged within a valve chamber 3 enclosed by the housing 2. Fig. 3a, the device 1 goes out Fig. 2 in an open state of a first fluid connection 2a as an inlet for the fluid and a second fluid connection 2b as a first outlet for the fluid as well as a closed state of a third fluid connection 2c as a second outlet for the fluid in a lateral sectional view, while from Fig. 3b the device 1 from Fig. 2 in an open state of the first fluid connection 2a and the third fluid connection 2c as well as a closed state of the second fluid connection 2b in a lateral sectional view. In the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b is the device 1 from the Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b each shown in detailed views.

[0062] The housing 2 of the device 1, which is designed in particular as a 3 / 2-way valve, has the first fluid connection 2a, the second fluid connection 2b, and the third fluid connection 2c, each for connecting to fluid lines of the fluid circuit. A through-opening of the first fluid connection 2a is aligned in the axial direction of the valve element 4, while through-openings of the second fluid connection 2b and the third fluid connection 2c are aligned essentially in the radial direction to the valve element 4. The second fluid connection 2b and the third fluid connection 2c each have circumferentially distributed through-openings on the housing 2. The through-openings of a respective fluid connection 2b, 2c are each connected to one another via a flow channel. The flow channel is each formed as an annular channel between the outer side of the wall of the valve element 4 and the housing 2.

[0063] The valve element 4, which is arranged within the valve chamber 3 enclosed by the housing 2 and is designed as a hollow valve needle, is substantially rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis and has three sections 4a, 4b, and 4c along the longitudinal axis. A first section 4a and a second section 4b are designed as hollow cylinders, the second section in particular as a hollow circular cylinder, each with circular open cross-sections. The two first sections 4a and second sections 4b, which are arranged spaced apart from one another in the direction of the axis of symmetry and thus in the longitudinal direction of the valve element 4, are connected to one another by a third section 4c designed as a transition. The sections 4a, 4b, 4c of the valve element 4 are arranged aligned on a common axis of symmetry or longitudinal axis. The third section 4c is arranged between the outer sections 4a, 4b in the longitudinal direction of the valve element 4.

[0064] The device 1, designed in particular as an electrically driven valve, has an electric motor as the drive element 5, which imparts a rotational movement 6a to a drive shaft provided as an actuating element 6. With the aid of a transmission arrangement 7, in particular a thread, specifically a so-called movement thread, provided on the actuating element 6 aligned in the axial direction, the rotational movement 6a of the actuating element 6 about its longitudinal axis is transferred into a translational stroke movement of the valve element 4 designed as a hollow valve needle. The translational stroke movement corresponds to a linear movement 8 of the valve element 4 in the axial direction and thus in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the actuating element 6 designed as a drive shaft.

[0065] The threaded pair of the transmission arrangement 7 is provided between the valve element 4 and the actuating element 6. The actuating element 6, which essentially has the shape of a cylindrical rod, in particular a round rod with sections of different diameters, is inserted with a free end into an opening 4-1 formed in the valve element 4, in particular in the first section 4a of the valve element 4. The free end of the actuating element 6 is arranged distally to an end connected to the drive element 5. The actuating element 6 thus has an external thread at its free end as the first element of the thread pairing of the transmission arrangement 7, while an internal thread is formed within the opening 4-1 of the valve element 4 as the second element of the thread pairing of the transmission arrangement 7. The opening 4-1 is arranged at a first axially oriented end within the first section 4a of the valve element 4, penetrating the first section 4a in the direction of the longitudinal axis. Depending on the arrangement of the actuating element 6 within the opening 4-1 of the valve element 4, the actuating element 6 can protrude into the third section 4c of the valve element 4 and thus protrude through the first section 4a of the valve element 4.

[0066] The valve element 4, which moves linearly in the axial direction and extends substantially in the axial direction, is held by a sliding rotation locking element 10, which prevents a rotational movement of the valve element 4 about the axial direction or the longitudinal axis of the valve element 4 and allows the linear movement 8 in the axial direction.

[0067] The valve element 4, which is essentially rotationally symmetrical about its longitudinal axis, has radially oriented protrusions 4-2 in its first section 4a, and thus at its first axially oriented end. The protrusions 4-2 provided in the first section 4a at the first end of the valve element 4 facing the drive element 5 protrude in pairs from the valve element 4 in opposite directions and extend along its longitudinal axis.

[0068] The anti-rotation element 10, which is arranged within the housing 2 in a rotationally secure manner and is particularly disc-shaped, has a passage opening with notch-shaped or groove-like recesses arranged opposite one another with respect to the longitudinal axis of the valve element 4, which correspond in shape and dimensions to those of the formations 4-2 of the valve element 4. The shapes of the recesses of the passage opening of the anti-rotation element 10 each correspond to the outer shape of the formations 4-2 of the valve element 4, plus a clearance for the sliding movement of the valve element 4 in the axial direction within the passage opening of the anti-rotation element 10.

[0069] By forming the protrusions 4-2 on an outer side of the first region 4a of the valve element 4 and arranging the protrusions 4-2 within the notch-shaped or groove-like recesses of the anti-slide element 10 fixed in the housing 2, a rotational movement of the valve element 4, driven by the actuating element 6 rotating about the longitudinal axis, is prevented. Thus, the valve element 4 is guided in the linear movement 8 by the rotational movement 6a of the actuating element 6 without rotating about the longitudinal axis itself.

[0070] With the linear movement 8 of the valve element 4 designed as a hollow needle along the longitudinal axis of the device 1, a 3 / 2-way valve is realized.

[0071] In particular, the second section 4b of the valve element 4 serves to adjust the corresponding flow paths of the fluid through the device 1.

[0072] The second section 4b of the valve element 4 is designed in the form of a hollow circular cylinder with a bottom open on both sides. The axis of symmetry of the hollow circular cylinder is aligned coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the device 1. The second section 4b is connected at a first end via the third section 4c to the first section 4a of the valve element 4. The second section 4b has a larger diameter than the first section 4a of the valve element 4.

[0073] To connect the first section 4a and the second section 4b of the valve element 4, the third section 4c is designed in the shape of a bell with a cross-section tapering in the direction of the longitudinal axis, either cup-shaped or hemispherical with two open bottoms. An edge of an open bottom of the third section 4c with the maximum diameter is fully connected to the edge of the second section 4b surrounding a first end. The maximum diameter of the open bottom of the third section 4c corresponds to the diameter of the edge surrounding the first end of the second section 4b.

[0074] In addition, an edge of an open base of the third section 4c with a small diameter is fully connected to an edge of the first section 4a that surrounds a second end. The small diameter of the open base of the third section 4c corresponds to the diameter of the edge that surrounds the second end of the first section 4a.

[0075] The open bottom of a second end of the second section 4b of the valve element 4, which is distal to the first end and also corresponds to the second end of the valve element 4, is arranged aligned with the through opening of the first fluid connection 2a.

[0076] The wall of the second section 4b of the valve element 4, which is preferably formed with a constant wall thickness, has flow openings 4-3 in the region of the first end and transition to the third section 4c of the valve element 4. The flow openings 4-3 are particularly evenly distributed over the circumference of the wall and preferably have the same diameter.

[0077] When the valve element 4 is arranged in a first end position, according to the Fig. 2, Fig. 3a and Fig. 4a, the flow openings 4-3 are arranged completely in the region of the flow channel of the second fluid connection 2b, so that a flow path is open between the first fluid connection 2a as the inlet of the device 1 for the fluid and the second fluid connection 2b as the first outlet of the device 1 for the fluid. The valve element 4 is arranged with the wall of the second section 4b in such a way that no fluidic connection is open between the inner volume of the valve element 4 and the flow channel of the third fluid connection 2c. The flow path between the first fluid connection 2a as the inlet of the device 1 for the fluid and the third fluid connection 2c as the second outlet of the device 1 for the fluid is closed. The fluid flows into the device 1 through the first fluid connection 2a and out of the device 1 through the second fluid connection 2b.

[0078] In a second end position of the valve element 4, according to the Fig. 3b and Fig. 4b, the valve element 4 is arranged such that the flow channel of the third fluid connection 2c with the associated through openings to the first fluid connection 2a is completely open and consequently a flow path is opened between the first fluid connection 2a as the inlet of the device 1 for the fluid and the third fluid connection 2c as the second outlet of the device 1 for the fluid. The valve element 4 is arranged with the wall of the second section 4b such that no fluidic connection is open between the inner volume of the valve element 4 and the flow channel of the second fluid connection 2b. The flow path between the first fluid connection 2a as the inlet of the device 1 for the fluid and the second fluid connection 2b as the first outlet of the device 1 for the fluid is closed. The fluid flows into the device 1 through the first fluid connection 2a and out of the device 1 through the third fluid connection 2c.

[0079] The valve element 4 is sealed to the housing 2 in two different sealing areas 11, 12, each designed as a sealing edge, and by means of a sealing element 13, which is particularly important in the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b. The valve element 4 rests directly against the housing 2 in the sealing areas 11, 12, while the sealing element 13 is arranged between the housing 2 and the valve element 4, in particular the second section 4b of the sealing element 4, in a fully abutting manner. The sealing element 13 is preferably designed as a sealing ring.

[0080] With the construction of both the housing 2 and the valve element 4 from a metal, the valve element 4 is metallically sealed to the housing 2 in the sealing areas 11, 12. The housing 2 and the valve element 4 are made of stainless steel. Fig. 4a, a first sealing area 11 is formed in the axial direction between the first fluid connection 2a as an inlet for the fluid into the device 1 and the third fluid connection 2c as a second outlet for the fluid from the device 1. The valve element 4 lies in the region of the second end and thus also in the region of the second end of the second section 4b of the valve element 4, completely and sealingly against the housing 2. According to Fig. 4b, a second sealing area 12 is formed between the first fluid connection 2a as the inlet for the fluid into the device 1 and the second fluid connection 2b as the first outlet for the fluid from the device 1. The valve element 4 rests completely and sealingly against the housing 2 in the area of ​​the second section 4b. In addition, the sealing element 13 arranged in the axial direction between the second fluid connection 2b as the first outlet for the fluid from the device 1 and the third fluid connection 2c as the second outlet for the fluid from the device 1 seals off the fluid connections 2b, 2c, each serving as an outlet for the fluid. This ensures that in the end positions of the valve element 4, 100% of the mass flow of fluid flowing into the device flows out of the device 1 through one of the outlets.

[0081] The sealing element 13 is always in contact, especially surface contact, with an outer side of the valve element 4, in particular the second section 4b of the valve element 4, even during the movement of the valve element 4, so that the sealing element 13 is not swept over by a sealing edge of the valve element 4.

[0082] When the valve element 4 is arranged in one of the two end positions, according to the Fig. 2, Fig. 3a and Fig. 4a on the one hand and the Fig. 3b and Fig. 4b, on the other hand, the mass flow flowing in through the first fluid connection 2a as the inlet of the device 1 is diverted through one of the two fluid connections 2b, 2c as the outlet of the device 1 for the fluid, which is open, while at the same time the other of the two fluid connections 2c, 2b as the outlet of the device 1 for the fluid is closed or sealed by the valve element 4. In this case, 100% of the mass flow of the fluid flowing into the device 1 is diverted again from the device 1 through one of the fluid connections 2b, 2c as the outlet for the fluid.

[0083] In a not shown arrangement of the valve element 4 between the two end positions, the opening cross sections of the flow paths and thus the partial mass flows of the fluid through the second fluid connection 2b and the third fluid connection 2c are proportional to one another.

[0084] As can be seen in particular from the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b and the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b, the valve element 4 is each pressurized with fluid at a first pressure p1 via the through-opening of the first fluid connection 2a, such that the pressure p1 acts on the valve element 4 essentially in the axial direction. The through-openings of the second fluid connection 2b and the third fluid connection 2c are each pressurized with fluid at a second pressure p2, such that the pressure p2 acts on the valve element 4 essentially in the radial direction. All pressurized surfaces of the valve element 4 are designed such that the valve element 4 is arranged in a nearly isostatic state. The pressure forces acting on the valve element 4 are in equilibrium, such that no resulting pressure forces are applied to the valve element 4, particularly in the axial direction.The valve element 4 is completely pressure-relieved, which enables a drive with a low torque even at high operating pressures and, for example, eliminates the need for complex pressure compensation springs.

[0085] The device 1 preferably has flow cross-sections from the first fluid connection 2a to the second fluid connection 2b in the diameter range of 3 mm to 9 mm and from the first fluid connection 2a to the third fluid connection 2c in the diameter range of 3 mm to 10 mm. The smaller maximum flow cross-section through the second fluid connection 2b is due to the flow through the valve element 4. The stroke of the valve element 4 in the direction of the linear movement 8 is 5 mm with a length L of the installation, according to Fig. 4b, of about 41 mm, specifically 41.2 mm.

[0086] In particular, in the two end positions of the valve element 4 within the housing 2, the fluid can flow through the device 1 bidirectionally, so that the second fluid port 2b and the third fluid port 2c can each serve as an inlet for the fluid, while the first fluid port 2a then serves as an outlet for the fluid. Likewise, the second fluid port 2b or the third fluid port 2c could serve as an inlet for the fluid, while the other fluid port 2b, 2c serves as an outlet for the fluid.

[0087] The device 1 can be designed as a so-called "drop-in valve." In this case, the device 1 or several devices 1 are each inserted into a block, in particular a block made of aluminum, which is specifically aimed at use in a refrigerant circuit with carbon dioxide as the refrigerant. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 1, 1', 1'' device 2, 2', 2'' housing 2a, 2a', 2a'' first fluid connection 2b, 2b', 2b'' second fluid connection 2c, 2c', 2c'' third fluid connection 3, 3', 3'' valve chamber 4, 4', 4'' valve element 4-1 Opening of the valve element 4 4-2 Formation of the valve element 4 4-3 Flow opening of the valve element 4 4a, 4a'' first section of the valve element 4, 4'' 4b, 4b'' second section of the valve element 4, 4'' 4c, 4c'' third section of the valve element 4, 4'' 5, 5', 5'' drive element 6, 6', 6'' actuator 6a Rotational movement 7, 7' transmission arrangement 8, 8', 8'' linear movement 9', 9a'', 9b'' valve seat element 10, 10' sliding rotation lock element 11 first sealing area 11', 11'' first sealing element 12 second sealing area 12', 12'' second sealing element 13 Sealing element p1, p2 pressure L length QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2020 101 031 A1

[0011]

Claims

[1] Device (1) for regulating a flow and distributing a fluid in a fluid circuit, in particular a refrigerant in a refrigerant circuit, comprising a housing (2) with fluid connections (2a, 2b, 2c) for connecting to fluid lines, which are each connected via at least one through-opening to an inner volume of the housing (2) designed as a valve chamber (3), and a valve element (4) arranged in the valve chamber (3) with a drive element (5) for moving the valve element (4) relative to the housing (2), characterized bythat the valve element (4) is mounted so as to be linearly displaceable in an axial direction along a longitudinal axis between a first end position and a second end position in such a way that a passage for the fluid is open between a first fluid connection (2a) and a second fluid connection (2b) and / or between the first fluid connection (2a) and a third fluid connection (2c), and that the valve element (4) is designed substantially in the form of a hollow cylinder comprising at least two sections (4a, 4b). [2] Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that a wall of the valve element (4) has flow openings (4-3). [3] Device (1) according to claim 2, characterized by that the flow openings (4-3) of the valve element (4) are arranged completely around the valve element (4). [4] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized bythat a first section (4a) and a second section (4b) of the valve element (4) are arranged at a distance from one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis and are connected to one another via a third section (4c). [5] Device (1) according to claim 4, characterized by that the second section (4b) of the valve element (4) is designed in the form of a hollow cylinder which is substantially rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis, in particular a hollow circular cylinder, with a bottom open on both sides, wherein the second section (4b) is connected at a first end via the third section (4c) to the first section (4a) of the valve element (4). [6] Device (1) according to claim 5, characterized by that a wall of the second section (4b) of the valve element (4) has the flow openings (4-3) in the region of the first end. [7] Device (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized bythat the second section (4b) of the valve element (4) has a larger diameter than the first section (4a) of the valve element (4). [8] Device (1) according to claim 7, characterized by that the third section (4c) of the valve element (4) is rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis in the form of a bell with a cross-section tapering in the direction of the longitudinal axis and having two open bottoms, wherein an edge of an open bottom of the third section (4c) with a maximum diameter is fully connected to an edge of the second section (4b) of the valve element (4) which runs around a first end. [9] Device (1) according to claim 8, characterized by that an edge of an open bottom of the third section (4c) with a small diameter is fully connected to an edge of the first section (4a) of the valve element (4) which edge extends around a second end. [10] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by that an open bottom of the hollow cylindrical valve element (4) is arranged aligned towards the through opening of the first fluid connection (2a). [11] Device (1) according to one of claims 2 to 10, characterized by that the at least one through-opening of the second fluid connection (2b) and / or the at least one through-opening of the third fluid connection (2c) are / is each designed to open into a flow channel, wherein the respective flow channel is designed to encircle the valve element (4) between an outer side of the valve element (4) and the housing (2). [12] Device (1) according to claim 11, characterized bythat when the valve element (4) is arranged in the first end position, the flow openings (4-3) of the valve element (4) are arranged completely in the region of the flow channel of the second fluid connection (2b) such that a flow path is formed between the first fluid connection (2a) and the second fluid connection (2b). [13] Device (1) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized by that when the valve element (4) is arranged in the second end position, the flow openings (4-3) of the valve element (4) are arranged completely in the region of the flow channel of the third fluid connection (2c) such that a flow path is formed between the first fluid connection (2a) and the third fluid connection (2c). [14] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by that the at least one through-opening of the first fluid connection (2a) is arranged aligned in the axial direction of the valve element (4). [15] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by that the at least one through-opening of the second fluid connection (2b) and / or the at least one through-opening of the third fluid connection (2c) are / is arranged aligned in the radial direction to the valve element (4). [16] Device (1) according to claim 15, characterized by that the through openings of the second fluid connection (2b) and the third fluid connection (2c) are formed spaced apart from one another in the axial direction. [17] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized by that at least two sealing areas (11, 12) are formed between the housing (2) and the valve element (4), wherein the valve element (4) in the sealing areas (11, 12) lies directly on the housing (2) over its entire circumference and the sealing areas (11, 12) are each formed as a metallic seal. [18] Device (1) according to claim 17, characterized bythat a first sealing region (11) is arranged in the axial direction between the first fluid connection (2a) and the third fluid connection (2c). [19] Device (1) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by that a second sealing region (12) is arranged between the first fluid connection (2a) and the second fluid connection (2b). [20] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized by that a sealing element (13) is arranged between the housing (2) and the valve element (4), which sealing element rests completely on the valve element (4). [21] Device (1) according to claim 20, characterized by that the sealing element (13) is arranged in the axial direction between the second fluid connection (2b) and the third fluid connection (2c), the fluid connections (2b, 2c) being arranged in a sealing manner with respect to one another. [22] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized by that the device (1) is designed to allow bidirectional flow. [23] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterized by that the valve element (4) is connected via an adjusting element (6) to the drive element (5) arranged outside the housing (2). [24] Device (1) according to claim 23, characterized by that the adjusting element (6) is designed as a drive shaft aligned in the axial direction. [25] Device (1) according to claim 24, characterized by that the actuating element (6) is arranged at a first end fixed to the drive element (5) and at a second end formed distal to the first end, protruding into the housing (2) and connected to the valve element (4). [26] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized by that the drive element (5) is designed as a servo motor. [27] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 26, characterized bythat the actuating element (6) as well as a transmission arrangement (7) and a sliding rotation locking element (10) are designed to transmit a rotational movement (6a) of the drive element (5) about the longitudinal axis into a linear movement (8) of the valve element (4) in the direction of the longitudinal axis relative to the housing (2). [28] Device (1) according to claim 27, characterized by that the transmission arrangement (7) is designed as a threaded pairing between the actuating element (6) and the valve element (4), wherein the actuating element (6) is arranged inserted into an opening (4-1) of the valve element (4). [29] Use of a device (1) for regulating a flow and distributing a fluid according to one of claims 1 to 28 in a refrigerant circuit of a thermal system, in particular a thermal management system, of a motor vehicle.

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