rotary disc valve

Abstract

A rotary disc valve includes a valve housing. The housing includes a valve body having a plurality of ports and a cover closing one end of the valve body. Furthermore, the valve may include a diverter and seal assembly disposed within the housing, the seal assembly providing a seal between the diverter and the valve body. The diverter is configured, in at least one rotational orientation of the diverter, to circumferentially divert fluid flow along a first circumferential fluid path portion between a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber disposed between the rotational axis and the sidewall, and to circumferentially divert fluid flow along a second circumferential fluid path portion between a third sub-chamber and a fourth sub-chamber disposed between the rotational axis and the sidewall.The second circumferential fluid path portion is arranged radially outwardly with respect to the first circumferential fluid path portion.

Description

background

[0001] Electric vehicles require thermal management for various vehicle components, including electric drive motors, batteries, autonomous control computers, the vehicle interior, and more. This thermal management is achieved through the efficient use of heat energy contained within multiple coolant circuits. The distribution of this heat energy is accomplished using coolant valves and pumps that move automotive coolant through these circuits to and between the various vehicle components. Due to the number of components requiring cooling, the thermal management system of electric vehicles is complex and necessitates multiple coolant circuits and corresponding sets of pumps and coolant valves.It is desirable to reduce the complexity of vehicle thermal management systems in order to increase efficiency, reduce system costs and improve system reliability. Summary

[0002] A single multi-way rotary valve can be used, for example, to distribute automotive coolant through the various coolant circuits in a vehicle. The multiple ports of the rotary valve allow a single valve-and-actuator assembly to perform the switching of multiple coolant flows, which is typically accomplished by more than one valve. The term "multi-way valve," as used here, refers to a valve that has more than three ports and controls the flow through more than one coolant path.

[0003] Unlike some conventional multi-way valves, the multi-way rotary valve described here uses flat discs, referred to as "sealing plates," as its sealing elements. The term "rotary valve," as used here, refers to a valve in which a fluid-tight seal is provided between planar surfaces of adjacent sealing plates. To this end, the rotary valve incorporates a disc diverter located within the valve body and rotatable about an axis of rotation relative to the valve body. The axis of rotation is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the plane in which the ports are located. The term "substantially perpendicular," as used here, indicates that small angular deviations, e.g., in the range of + / - 3 degrees from the perpendicular, are within an acceptable tolerance.

[0004] The diverter is generally disc-shaped and includes an outer surface from which a shaft protrudes. The diverter is configured to control fluid flow through the valve body such that fluid enters the diverter in a first direction parallel to the shaft's axis of rotation. Fluid exits the diverter in a second direction parallel to the axis of rotation, opposite to the first direction.

[0005] Sealing assemblies that utilize sealing plates require fewer, high-tolerance parts to achieve the necessary sealing function. This disc design configuration also requires less torque for rotation, allowing the use of a smaller, more energy-efficient actuator. The material used for the discs (e.g., the sealing plates) can be varied depending on the required valve lifespan and the amount of abrasive media in the coolant flows.

[0006] For operational and installation efficiency, it can be advantageous to combine several components of a vehicle cooling system into a single integrated thermal control module. Such a thermal control module might include, for example, the cooling circuit pump, a fluid reservoir, one or more fluid valves, a cooling system controller, sensors, and so on. The thermal control module housing may include internal passages that allow fluidic communication between the various system components managed by the thermal control module. Sections of the module housing may be configured to replace housing elements of certain components. For example, a section of the module housing might be used to provide a valve body for a fluid valve, with the fluid valve being connected to and integrated with the module housing.In some embodiments, the valve body, as integrated into the module housing, defines an interface with a fluid distributor, thus eliminating internal passages within the valve body and / or module housing. Therefore, the valve ports defined in the valve body can be configured to reduce pressure drop between the valve and the distributor compared to some conventional valve bodies.

[0007] According to some definitions, a valve comprises a valve body and a diverter and seal assembly located within the body. The valve body includes an inner surface defining a chamber, chamber walls dividing the chamber into sub-chambers providing a portion of a fluid path through the valve body, and valve ports, each connecting to the chamber. The diverter is located within the chamber. The diverter has a diverter outer diameter and is configured to direct fluid flow through the valve body. The diverter includes a shaft extending through an opening in the valve body. The shaft is rotatable about an axis of rotation. The seal assembly is positioned within the chamber so that it is aligned with the diverter along the axis of rotation. The seal assembly is configured to provide a fluid-tight seal between the diverter and the valve body.The diverter is configured to divert fluid flow in at least one rotational orientation of the diverter with respect to the valve housing a) circumferentially along a first circumferential fluid path section between a first subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a second subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and b) circumferentially along a second circumferential fluid path section between a third subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a fourth subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall.

[0008] In some embodiments, the second circumferential fluid path section is arranged radially outwards with respect to the first circumferential fluid path section, and the first circumferential fluid path section and the second circumferential fluid path section are located in a region circumscribed by the diverter outer diameter.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first circumferential fluid path section and the second circumferential fluid path section are concentric.

[0010] In some embodiments, the diverter is configured to divert fluid flow radially along a first radial fluid path section between a fifth subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a sixth subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, in at least one rotational orientation of the diverter with respect to the valve housing.

[0011] In some embodiments, the diverter includes a dome that encloses the first circumferential fluid path section, and the dome does not enclose the second circumferential fluid path section.

[0012] In some embodiments, the diverter comprises a diverter body with a sealing side and an outer surface opposite the sealing side, as well as a shaft projecting from the outer surface and extending through an opening in the valve body. The diverter also includes through-holes extending between the sealing side and the outer surface, and domes projecting from the outer surface, each dome enclosing a specific through-hole.

[0013] In some embodiments, the diverter comprises a diverter body with a sealing side and an outer surface opposite the sealing side, a shaft projecting from the outer surface and extending through an opening in the valve body, and through-holes passing between the sealing side and the outer surface. At least one through-hole is arc-shaped with a first radius, and at least one through-hole is sector-shaped with a second radius. The second radius is smaller than the first radius.

[0014] In some embodiments, the sealing arrangement comprises a first sealing plate and a second sealing plate. The first sealing plate includes a sealing surface, and the second sealing plate includes a sealing surface that abuts the sealing surface of the first plate, forming a fluid-tight seal. One of the sealing surfaces of the first plate and the sealing surface of the second plate comprises a planar surface, and the other of the sealing surfaces of the first plate and the sealing surface of the second plate comprises an annular projection. An end face of the annular projection interacts with the planar surface to form the fluid-tight seal.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first sealing plate is a disc-shaped plate that is fixed relative to the diverter, while the second sealing plate is a disc-shaped plate that is fixed relative to the base, making the first sealing plate rotatable relative to the second sealing plate.

[0016] In some embodiments, the diverter is rotatable relative to the sealing assembly, a base-facing surface of the diverter defines a diverter sealing surface, and the sealing assembly is stacked relative to the diverter in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation without any intervening structures between the sealing assembly and the diverter sealing surface. Furthermore, the sealing assembly rests against the base and is fixed relative to the base, includes a sealing plate positioned between the base and the diverter, and an elastic element positioned between the base and the sealing plate. A fluid-tight seal is located at the interface between the sealing plate and the diverter sealing surface.

[0017] In some embodiments, the subchambers comprise a first subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a second subchamber located between the first subchamber and the side wall.

[0018] In some embodiments, each valve port is connected to a specific subchamber.

[0019] In some embodiments, the chamber walls include base wall sections that project from the base, and a first subset of the base wall sections connects the first subchamber to a corresponding valve port of the first subchamber. Furthermore, the first subset of the base wall sections defines a linear fluid passage that is non-radial with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0020] In some embodiments, a second subset of the base wall sections connects the third subchamber to a corresponding valve port of the third subchamber, and the second subset of the base wall sections defines a linear fluid passage that is radial with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0021] In some embodiments, the height of the side wall is less than the diameter of the side wall.

[0022] In some embodiments, the cover has a central opening through which a shaft of the diverter extends. Furthermore, the cover includes a shaft seal that prevents fluid from escaping between the shaft and the central opening, and the cover includes a cover seal that prevents fluid from escaping between the cover and the valve body.

[0023] From some perspectives, a fluid supply system includes a pump and a rotary valve connected to the pump via a fluid line. The rotary valve comprises a valve body, a diverter, and a sealing assembly. The valve body includes an inner surface defining a chamber, chamber walls dividing the chamber into sub-chambers that provide a portion of a fluid path through the valve body, and valve ports. Each valve port communicates with the chamber. The diverter is located within the chamber. The diverter has a diverter outer diameter and is configured to control fluid flow through the valve body. The diverter includes a shaft extending through an opening in the valve body. The shaft is rotatable about an axis of rotation. The sealing assembly is positioned within the chamber so that it is aligned with the diverter along the axis of rotation.The sealing arrangement is configured to ensure a fluid-tight seal between the diverter and the valve body. The diverter is configured, in at least one rotational orientation of the diverter with respect to the valve body, to a) divert fluid flow circumferentially along a first circumferential fluid path segment between a first subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a second subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and b) divert fluid flow circumferentially along a second circumferential fluid path segment between a third subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a fourth subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall.

[0024] In some embodiments, the second circumferential fluid path section is arranged radially outwards with respect to the first circumferential fluid path section, and the first circumferential fluid path section and the second circumferential fluid path section are located in a region circumscribed by the diverter outer diameter.

[0025] In some embodiments, the diverter includes a dome that encloses the first circumferential fluid path section, and the second circumferential fluid path section is not enclosed by a dome of the diverter.

[0026] In some embodiments, the diverter comprises a diverter body with a sealing side and an outer surface opposite the sealing side, as well as a shaft projecting from the outer surface and extending through an opening in the valve body. Furthermore, the diverter includes through-holes extending between the sealing side and the outer surface, and domes projecting from the outer surface, each dome enclosing a specific through-hole.

[0027] In some embodiments, the diverter includes a diverter plate with a sealing side and an outer surface opposite the sealing side, a shaft projecting from the outer surface and extending through an opening in the valve housing, and through-holes passing between the sealing side and the outer surface. At least one through-hole is sector-shaped with a first radius, and at least one through-hole is sector-shaped with a second radius. The second radius is smaller than the first radius. Brief description of the characters Fig. Figure 1 is a diagram of a vehicle cooling system that includes a multi-way rotary valve. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the rotary valve. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective exploded view of the rotary valve. Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the rotary valve, as shown along line 4-4 of Fig. 2 seen. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective top view of the valve body. Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view from below of the valve body. Fig. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the valve body, as shown along line 7-7 of Fig. 5 seen. Fig. Figure 8 is a top view of the valve body. Fig. Figure 9 is a top view of the valve body with solid arrows representing the flow path of fluid exiting the ports associated with the radially outermost subchambers and dashed arrows representing the flow path of fluid exiting the ports associated with the radially innermost subchambers. Fig. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the valve body, as shown along line 10-10 of Fig. 6 seen. Fig. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the valve body, as shown along line 11-11 of Fig. 6 seen. Fig. Figure 12 is a perspective top view of the diverter. Fig. Figure 13 is a perspective view from below of the diverter. Fig. Figure 14 is an exploded view of the sealing arrangement. Fig. 15A is a schematic representation of the connection between the terminals for a rotational alignment of the diverter according to a first operating mode. Fig. Figure 15B is a top view of the rotary valve without a cover, showing the rotational orientation of the diverter relative to the valve body when the rotary valve is in a first operating mode. Fig. 16A is a schematic representation of the connection between the terminals for a rotational alignment of the diverter according to a second operating mode. Fig. Figure 16B is a top view of the rotary disc valve without the cover, showing the rotational orientation of the diverter relative to the valve body when the rotary disc valve is in a second operating mode. Fig. 17A is a schematic representation of the connection between the terminals for a rotational orientation of the diverter according to a third operating mode. Fig. Figure 17B is a top view of the rotary valve without a cover, showing the rotational orientation of the diverter relative to the valve body when the rotary valve is in a third operating mode. Fig. 18A is a schematic representation of the connection between the terminals for a rotational orientation of the diverter according to a fourth operating mode. Fig. Figure 18B is a top view of the rotary disc valve without the cover, showing the rotational orientation of the diverter relative to the valve body when the rotary disc valve is in a fourth operating mode. Fig. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of a rotary disc valve of an alternative embodiment. Fig. Figure 20 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the rotary disc valve from Fig. 19 without valve body and sealing arrangement. Fig. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of a rotary disc valve of another alternative embodiment. Fig. Figure 22 is a bottom view of the rotary disc valve of the alternative embodiment of Fig. 21. Fig. Figure 23 is a perspective view of the heat control module that controls the rotary valve of the alternative embodiment of Fig. 21 is included. Fig. Figure 24 is a top view of a valve body of an alternative embodiment. Fig. Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of the valve body of Fig. 24, as along line 25-25 from Fig. 26 seen. Fig. Figure 26 is a perspective bottom view of the valve body of Fig. 24. Detailed description

[0028] With reference to Fig. System 1 includes a fluid supply system 1 and a multi-way rotary valve 18, which controls the fluid flow driven by the pumps 8 between several fluid lines 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 within system 1. The rotary valve 18 can be used alone or together with other fluid control valves 7 to control the distribution and flow of coolant in a thermal management system 1 of an electric vehicle. In this example, the rotary valve 18 can control the flow of coolant between the rotary valve 18 and a vehicle radiator 2 via a first fluid line 9. The rotary valve 18 can control the flow of coolant between the rotary valve 18 and the heat exchangers 5(1), 5(2) of a vehicle interior climate control system via a second and third fluid lines 10, 11.The rotary valve 18 can control the flow of coolant between the rotary valve 18 and the front and rear electric drive motors 14(1), 14(2), their respective inverters 15(1), 15(2), and a vehicle control unit via a fourth fluid line 12. Furthermore, the rotary valve 18 can control the flow of coolant between the rotary valve and a battery 3 and the battery management device 4 via a fifth fluid line 13. The fluid supply system 1 can include other auxiliary devices and structures known in the art that facilitate thermal management, including a condenser 16, an evaporator 17, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, check valves, degassing devices 19, etc.

[0029] With reference to the Fig. Figures 2-4 describe the rotary valve 18 comprising a valve housing 38. The valve housing 38 consists of a valve body 20 and a cover 44. A valve chamber 29 is defined between the valve body 20 and the cover 44. The rotary valve 18 includes a diverter 60 located within the valve chamber 29. The diverter 60 includes a valve stem 56 that protrudes through a cover 44, which closes an open end of the valve body 20. The valve stem 56 is configured for connection with a valve actuator (not shown). Upon actuation, the valve stem 56 and the diverter 60 rotate together about an axis of rotation 58 relative to the valve body 20, and the rotational orientation of the diverter 60 relative to the valve body 20 is determined by the valve actuator. Furthermore, the rotary disc valve 18 has a sealing arrangement 80 which ensures a fluid-tight seal between the valve body 20 and the diverter 60.The valve body 20 includes several valve ports 33, the number of which is determined by the specific application. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotary valve includes eight ports 33(1), 33(2), 33(3), 33(4), 33(5), 33(6), 33(7), 33(8). The rotational orientation of the diverter 60 relative to the valve body 20 determines one or more fluid flow paths through the corresponding valve ports 33, thereby controlling the distribution of the cooling fluid in the coolant system 1. Details of the rotary valve 18, which includes the valve body 20, the cover 44, the diverter 60, and the sealing assembly 80, will now be described. Valve body

[0030] With reference to the Fig. 5-11, the valve body 20 comprises a side wall 21 and a base 26, which closes one end (here referred to as the "base end") 22 of the side wall 21. The side wall 21 has an open end 23 opposite the base end 22. The side wall 21 is a circumferential area and, when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58, has a circular profile ( Fig. 10) Although the side wall 21 is shown as cylindrical, it could alternatively be, for example, conical or elliptical. The side wall 21 is connected at the base end 22 to a circumferential edge of the base 26, and the side wall 21 surrounds the base 26. The side wall 21 and the base 26 together form a generally cup-shaped structure. The lid 44 is detachably connected to and closes the open end 23 of the side wall 21. Together, the inner surfaces of the valve body 20 and the lid 44 define a valve chamber 29 between them.

[0031] The valve body 20 includes a central plain bearing 25 that projects from the base 26 to the open end 23 of the side wall. The bearing 25 is coaxial with the axis of rotation 58 and terminates at a first plane 40, which is described below. An inner surface of the bearing 25 defines a cylindrical bearing surface 25(1) and terminates in a slotted end 25(2) ( Fig. 7) The bearing 25 supports one end 59(1) of the valve shaft 56 for rotation about the axis of rotation 58, as discussed below.

[0032] The valve body 20 includes chamber walls 30 that separate the valve chamber 29 into subchambers 32. The chamber walls 30 include radial wall sections 30(1) and a circumferential wall section 30(2) ( Fig. 8 and Fig. 10) The radial wall sections 30(1) extend radially with respect to the axis of rotation 58 between the bearing 25 and the side wall 21. The circumferential wall section 30(2) extends circumferentially and is arranged between the bearing 25 and the side wall 21. In the illustrated embodiment, five radial wall sections 30(1) are present. Consequently, the valve body 20 includes ten subchambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4), 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8), 32(9), 32(10). Five of the ten subchambers, designated as the "radially innermost subchambers" (e.g., subchambers 32(1), 32(4), 32(5), 32(8), 32(9)), are sector-shaped and arranged between the bearing 25 and the circumferential wall section 30(2). The radially innermost subchambers 32(1), 32(4), 32(5), 32(8), 32(9) are arranged along a first circle C1 (in Fig. 8 (shown with dashed lines), which is centered on the axis of rotation 58. The remaining subchambers, which are referred to as the “radially outermost subchambers” (e.g., subchambers 32(2), 32(3), 32(6), 32(7), 32(10)), are arranged between the circumferential wall section 30(2) and the side wall 21. The radially outermost subchambers 32(2), 32(3), 32(6), 32(7), 32(10) are each radially aligned with one of the radially innermost subchambers 32(1), 32(4), 32(5), 32(8), 32(9) and have the shape of a truncated sector (e.g., an arc). The radially outermost subchambers 32(2), 32(3), 32(6), 32(7), 32(10) are arranged along a second circle C2 (in Fig. 8 (shown with a dashed line), which is centered on the axis of rotation 58 and has a larger diameter than the first circle.

[0033] Eight sub-chambers (e.g., sub-chambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4), 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8)) are "working sub-chambers". The working sub-chambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4), 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8) are in fluidic communication with a corresponding valve port 33(1), 33(2), 33(3), 33(4), 33(5), 33(6), 33(7), 33(8), and one valve port 33 is connected to each working sub-chamber 32. The remaining sub-chambers 32(9), 32(10), which are radially oriented, are not working sub-chambers, i.e. they are ‘non-working sub-chambers’ because they are not connected to a valve port 33 and do not perform a fluid guiding function in the rotary disc valve 18.

[0034] The working chambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4), 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8) each have a shorter arc length than the other chambers 32(9), 32(10). In the illustrated embodiment, the working chambers 32 have the same arc length, but are not limited to this configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the working chambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4), 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8) have an arc length ℓ1 in the range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees, and the other chambers 32(9), 32(10) have an arc length f2 in the range of 120 degrees to 240 degrees. Fig. 5).

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the working chambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4), 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8) are in fluidic connection with a corresponding valve connection 33(1), 33(2), 33(3), 33(4), 33(5), 33(6), 33(7), 33(8), and a valve connection 33 is in connection with each working chamber 32.

[0036] Each subchamber 32 is separated from the other subchambers 32 by the chamber walls 30. The chamber walls 30 have exposed ends 31 spaced from the base 26 and intersecting the side wall 21. The exposed ends 31 of the chamber walls 30 are aligned with the first plane 40. The first plane 40 is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation 58 and intersects the side wall 21 at an axial location between the open end 23 of the side wall and the valve ports 33. A shallow channel 28 is provided in the exposed ends 31 ( Fig. 7) formed. The channel 28 has a profile that corresponds to the shape of the opposing element (e.g., the second elastic element 232) of the sealing arrangement 80. The channel 28 receives and supports this section of the sealing arrangement 80, as discussed below.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve body 20 has eight valve ports 33, but is not limited to this number. In particular, the valve body 20 has a first valve port 33(1), a second valve port 33(2), a third valve port 33(3), a fourth valve port 33(4), a fifth valve port 33(5), a sixth valve port 33(6), a seventh valve port 33(7), and an eighth valve port 33(8). Each of the valve ports 33 corresponds to an opening in the side wall 21 and communicates with a corresponding opening in the sub-chambers 32. The valve ports 33 extend within a common second plane 42, which is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation 58 and intersects the side wall 21 at an axial location between the first plane 40 and the base 26 of the body 20.

[0038] In many applications, the configuration of the valve ports 33 is determined by the installation requirements. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve ports 33 generally define rectangular openings in the valve body side wall 21, but are not limited to this shape. The valve ports 33 are provided at spaced-apart locations around a common circumference of the side wall 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the ports 33 are spaced unevenly along the circumference of the valve body 20. However, the valve ports 33 are not limited to the spacing shown and / or the coplanar configuration.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve ports 33 are not equidistant from one another. For example, the first and eighth valve ports 33(1), 33(8) are positioned on one lateral side of the valve body 20, while the remaining valve ports 33(2), 33(3), 33(4), 33(5), 33(6), 33(7) are arranged on the opposite lateral side of the valve body 20. This arrangement results at least in part from the configuration of internal fluid passages that ensure the fluidic connection between the valve ports 33 and the corresponding valve subchambers 32. For example, the radially outermost working sub-chambers 32(2), 32(3), 32(6), 32(7) adjoin the side wall 21, and the corresponding valve connections 33(2), 33(3), 33(6), 33(7) are openings in the side wall 21 that are directly connected to these sub-chambers 32.Fluid exiting these valve ports 33(2), 33(3), 33(6) 33(7) leaves the valve body 20 along a linear path that is radial with respect to the valve axis of rotation 58.

[0040] The radially innermost working chambers 32(1), 32(4), 32(5), 32(8) are fluidically connected to the corresponding valve ports 33(1), 33(4), 33(5), 33(8) via base fluid passages 35 ( Fig. 11) For example, the first subchamber 32(1) is connected to the first port 33(1) via a first base fluid passage 35(1). The fourth subchamber 32(4) is connected to the fourth port 33(4) via a second base fluid passage 35(2). The fifth subchamber 32(5) is connected to the fifth port 33(5) via a third base fluid passage 35(3). Furthermore, the eighth subchamber 32(8) is connected to the eighth port 33(8) via a fourth base fluid passage 35(4). Each of the base fluid passages 35(1), 35(2), 35(3), and 35(4) extends along a linear path that is not radial with respect to the valve axis of rotation 58.

[0041] The valve body 20 includes at least one valve body support 36, which projects axially to the sealing assembly 80 from the exposed end 31 of one of the chamber walls 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve body 20 includes two valve body supports 36, the valve body supports 36 being arranged on opposite sides of the bearing 25. Each valve body support 36 is a rigid rod extending from the plane 40 and terminating at a point spaced from the open end 23 of the side wall. The valve body supports 36 are configured to engage a section of the sealing assembly 80, as discussed below.

[0042] The valve body 20 includes a sidewall flange 27 that projects from an outer surface of the sidewall 21. The sidewall flange 27 is located next to the open end 23 of the sidewall and extends around the circumference of the sidewall 21. In the plane 40, there is a cover-facing surface 27(1) of the sidewall flange 27 that supports the cover 44 when the cover 44 is joined to the valve body 20. Lid

[0043] With reference to the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. The rotary valve 18 includes the cover 44, which closes the open end of the valve body 20. The cover 44 has a curved dome shape and includes an integrated cylindrical sleeve 46 that is coaxial with the axis of rotation 58. The sleeve 46 extends outward from an outer surface of the cover 44. The sleeve 46 has a non-uniform inner diameter, and a collar 48 is located at the transition between a large-diameter section 46(1) and a small-diameter section 46(2). The small-diameter section 46(2) is located outside the cover 44, while the large-diameter section 46(1) is generally coextensive with a central section of the cover 44. The small-diameter section 46(2) has an inner diameter dimensioned to accommodate the valve stem 56 in a clearance fit, e.g., B. a running fit, wherein the small diameter section 46(2) serves as a bushing for the valve shaft 56.The large diameter section 46(1) defines a recess in which a shaft seal 52 is received.

[0044] The cover 44 has an annular projection 45 that surrounds the sleeve 46. The annular projection 45 is hollow and opens onto the inner surface of the cover, forming an annular groove 47. The annular groove accommodates one end of an elastic element, such as a coil spring (not shown) or a stacked wave washer spring 49 (shown). The opposite end of the spring 49 rests against a flat washer 50, which is located between the cover and the diverter 60. An inner diameter of the washer 50 surrounds the valve stem 56, and an outer diameter of the washer 50 is larger than an outer diameter of the groove 47. In this arrangement, the spring 49 is compressed and thus exerts an axial force on the diverter 60 and the sealing assembly 80, which are located between the washer 50 and the base 26 of the valve body 20.This configuration ensures, through the axial force, that a fluid-tight seal exists between the diverter 60 and the valve body 20. shaft seal

[0045] The shaft seal 52 is located between the valve shaft 56 and the large-diameter sleeve section 46(1). The shaft seal 52 forms a fluid seal between the valve shaft 56 and the sleeve 46. The shaft seal 52 is annular and can be made of an elastomer compatible with automotive coolants, e.g., ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft seal 52 is an O-ring with an "X" cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the shaft seal 52 can have other cross-sectional shapes, such as rectangular, oval, or "I" shapes, but is not limited to these. The shaft seal 52 is held on the valve shaft 56 in an axial position corresponding to the large-diameter sleeve section 46(1) by the washer 50 and the collar 48. Lid seal

[0046] The rotary valve includes a cover seal 54, which is arranged between an inner surface of the cover 44, an outer surface of the side wall 21, and the side wall flange 27. The cover seal 54 provides a fluid seal between the cover 44 and the valve body 20. The cover seal 54 is annular and can be made of an elastomer compatible with automotive coolants, e.g., ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). In the illustrated embodiment, the cover seal 54 is an O-ring with an "O" cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the cover seal 54 can have other cross-sectional shapes, such as rectangular, oval, "X," or "I" shapes, but is not limited to these. Detour

[0047] With reference to the Fig. In sections 3-4 and 12-13, the diverter 60 is arranged in the valve chamber 29 and is rotatable relative to the valve body 20 about the axis of rotation 58. The diverter 60 is a flat plate with a non-uniform circumferential shape and includes a base-facing surface 61 (e.g., a sealing surface) that faces the valve body base 26, and a cover-facing surface 62 (e.g., an outer surface) that is opposite the base-facing diverter surface 61. Although the diverter 60 is generally circular, it has an arcuate cutout 64 along the circumference of one sector of the diverter 60, as discussed below.

[0048] The diverter 60 has a valve shaft 56 that projects from the center of the diverter's outer surface 62 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the diverter surface 61 facing the base. The valve shaft comprises a first section 57 located on the side of the diverter 60 facing the cover, and a second section 59 located on the side of the diverter 60 facing the base.

[0049] The first section 57 of the valve shaft extends through the cover sleeve 46 and is rotatably supported by it, such that one end 57(1) of the first section 57 is located outside the rotary valve 18. The end 57(1) of the first section 57 of the valve shaft is configured to connect to the valve actuator, which drives the valve shaft 56 to rotate about the axis of rotation 58. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface of the end 57(1) may have flats, keyways, or other features (not shown) that allow mechanical engagement with an output structure of the valve actuator.

[0050] The second section 59 of the valve shaft is located opposite the first section 57 and is surrounded by a projection 55. One end 59(1) of the second section 59 of the valve shaft projects from the hub 55 and is shaped and dimensioned to be received and rotatably supported by the plain bearing 25 provided in the valve body base 26.

[0051] The diverter 60 includes diverter through-openings 63 with a circular sector-shaped profile when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58. The diverter through-openings 63 extend between the diverter surface 61 facing the base and the diverter outer surface 62, allowing fluid to enter and exit the diverter 60 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the diverter 60 includes five diverter through-openings 63(1), 63(2), 63(3), 63(4), 63(5) arranged side by side and surrounding the axis of rotation 58. The first, second, third and fourth diverter passage opening 63(1), 63(2), 63(3), 63(4) have a shorter arc length than the fifth diverter passage opening 63(5) and a longer radial dimension than the fifth diverter passage opening 63(5).In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the first, second, third and fourth diverter passage openings 63(1), 63(2), 63(3), 63(4) have an arc length ℓ3 in a range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees, and the fifth diverter passage opening 63(5) has an arc length ℓ4 in a range of 120 degrees to 240 degrees (. Fig. 13) Furthermore, the fifth diverter passage opening 63(5) has a radial dimension in the range of 40 percent to 70 percent of the radial dimension of the first, second, third and fourth diverter passage openings 63(1), 63(2), 63(3), 63(4). The fifth diverter passage opening 63(5) is arranged next to the valve shaft 56, whereby the cutout 64 is formed along the circumference of the diverter 60.

[0052] The diverter 60 includes domes 65 projecting from the outer surface 62 of the diverter and positioned over each of the diverter passage openings 63(1), 63(2), 63(3), 63(4), 63(5). Specifically, each dome 65 is a concave structure opening towards the base 26. Each dome 65 encloses a corresponding diverter passage opening 63. Consequently, fluid entering one of the diverter passage openings 63 from a valve body subchamber 32 can be diverted to an adjacent valve body subchamber 32, as discussed in more detail below. Thus, each dome 65 provides a section of an "enclosed" fluid passage within the rotary valve 18.

[0053] The diverter opening 64 is not enclosed by a dome, and fluid entering the opening 64 of the diverter 60 from a corresponding subchamber 32 is confined by the valve body 20 and the cover 44 and diverted to an adjacent subchamber 32, as discussed in more detail below. In other words, for certain rotational positions of the diverter 60 relative to the valve body 20, fluid entering the diverter opening 64 from a corresponding radially outermost subchamber 32 can be diverted circumferentially to an adjacent radially outermost subchamber 32 via this "open" section of a fluid passage within the rotary valve 18.

[0054] It is understood that the number, shape, size and spacing of the diverter passage openings 63 as well as the number, shape, size and spacing of the domes 65 are exemplary and will depend in practice on the specific application.

[0055] The base-facing diverter surface 61, which includes an end face of the projection 55, faces a corresponding diverter-facing surface 135 of the sealing assembly 80. The base-facing diverter surface 61 is generally planar. Due to the size and shape of the diverter passage openings 63, the base-facing diverter surface 61, viewed from below, has the appearance of a wheel with spokes and a hub. The base-facing surface 61 includes a channel 68 that surrounds the diverter passage openings 63 and the shaft 56. The channel 68 provides a recessed pattern that matches the profile of the opposing element (e.g., the first elastic element 132) of the sealing assembly 80. Furthermore, the channel 68 accommodates and supports a section of the first elastic element 132 of the sealing assembly 80, as discussed below.This configuration positions the first elastic element 132 rotatably with respect to the diverter 60 and prevents it from rotating relative to the diverter.

[0056] The diverter 60 includes at least one diverter support 76, which projects axially from the base-facing surface 61 of the diverter 60 towards the sealing arrangement 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the diverter 60 includes two diverter supports 76, the diverter supports 76 being arranged on opposite sides of the shaft 56. Each diverter support 76 is a rigid rod extending axially and terminating at a point spaced from the base-facing surface 61. The diverter supports 76 are configured to engage a section of the sealing arrangement 80, as discussed below.

[0057] In addition to the diverter supports 76, the diverter 60 also includes diverter locks 70 along its outer circumferential surface 69. Each diverter lock 60 projects from the outer circumferential surface 69 at a location adjacent to the diverter surface 62 facing the cover and extends to the sealing arrangement 80. Each lock 60 terminates in a hook-shaped element 72 located axially spaced from the base-facing surface 61. Each hook-shaped element 72 is configured to engage with the corresponding rib projecting from an outer circumference of the first sealing plate 102, as discussed below. In the illustrated embodiment, the diverter 60 includes three diverter locks 70 spaced apart around the circumference of the diverter 60.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the diverter 60 is made of a plastic such as polyoxymethylene (POM) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). Sealing arrangement

[0059] With reference to the Fig. The sealing arrangement 80 is located in the valve chamber 29 between the base-facing diverter surface 61 and the base 26 of the valve body 20, specifically between the base-facing diverter surface 61 and the channel 28 of the valve body 20. The sealing arrangement 80 comprises a first sealing assembly 100 and a second sealing assembly 200. The first sealing assembly 100 is arranged in the chamber 29 such that it is partially surrounded by the diverter 60 and fixed relative to the diverter 60. The second sealing assembly 200 is also arranged in the valve chamber 29 such that it is partially surrounded by the valve body 20 and fixed relative to the valve body 20. The first and second sealing assemblies 100 and 200 are rotatable relative to each other and will now be described in more detail.

[0060] The first sealing assembly 100 is an arrangement of two sealing elements. Specifically, the first sealing assembly 100 comprises a first sealing plate 102, which is arranged between the base-facing diverting surface 61 and the second sealing assembly 200, and a first elastic element 132, which is arranged between the base-facing diverting surface 61 and the first sealing plate 102. The first elastic element 132 is stacked with the first sealing plate 102 parallel to the axis of rotation 58. When viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58, each of the first elastic element 132 and the first sealing plate 102 has a shape similar to that of the base-facing diverting surface 61. The first elastic element 132 and the first sealing plate 102 will now be described in more detail.

[0061] The first sealing plate 102 is a rigid, generally cylindrical plate and includes a diverter-facing surface 104 of the first plate, which faces the base-facing diverter surface 61, and a base-facing surface 106 of the first plate, which faces the base 26. The first sealing plate 102 includes a circumferential surface 108 of the first plate, which extends between the diverter-facing and base-facing surfaces 104, 106 of the first plate. The diverter-facing and base-facing surfaces 104, 106 of the first plate are generally planar (e.g., flat or even and smooth, without surface roughness or irregularities). The first sealing plate 102 has a central opening 120, which is shaped and dimensioned to receive the second section of the valve stem 59 through it in a clearance fit.

[0062] The first sealing plate 102 includes through-openings 110. These through-openings have a sector-shaped profile when the first sealing plate 102 is viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58. The through-openings 110 extend between the surfaces 104, 106 of the first plate facing the diverter and the surface facing the base, allowing fluid to flow through the first sealing plate 102 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sealing plate 102 includes five through-openings 110(1), 110(2), 110(3), 110(4), 110(5) arranged side by side.The first, second, third, and fourth through-holes 110(1), 110(2), 110(3), 110(4) of the first sealing plate 102 have a shorter arc length than that of the fifth through-hole 110(5) of the first sealing plate 102 and a longer radial dimension than that of the fifth through-hole 110(5). In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the first, second, third, and fourth through-holes 110(1), 110(2), 110(3), 110(4) of the first sealing plate 102 have an arc length ℓ5 in a range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees, and the fifth through-hole 110(5) has an arc length ℓ6 in a range of 120 degrees to 240 degrees. In addition to the fifth through-hole 110(5) of the first sealing plate 102, a radial dimension in a range of 40 percent to 70 percent of the radial dimension of the first, second, third and fourth through-holes 110(1), 110(2), 110(3), 110(4) of the first sealing plate 102 is present.The fifth through-hole 110(5) of the first sealing plate 102 is arranged next to the valve shaft 56, whereby a cutout 116 is formed along the circumference of the first sealing plate 102.

[0063] Furthermore, the base-facing surface 106 of the first plate has a narrow projection 112 that surrounds the through-holes 110, the central opening 120, and includes radial spokes arranged between the through-holes 110, giving the projection 112 the appearance of a wheel when viewed from below. The annular projection 112 is narrow in a radial direction, and an end surface 114 of the annular projection 112 interacts with and / or engages the opposite planar surface of the second assembly 200 to form a fluid-tight seal.

[0064] The surface 104 of the first plate facing the diverter points to a corresponding surface 133 of the intermediate first elastic element 132 facing the base and touches it directly, as discussed in more detail below.

[0065] The circumferential surface 108 of the first plate faces the side wall 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the first circumferential surface 108 is circular when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58 and includes three ribs 122. The ribs 122, which are rectangular projections, extend from the first circumferential surface 108 of the first plate. The ribs 122 are spaced apart along the circumference of the first sealing plate 102 and extend to the side wall 21. Each rib 122 is shaped and dimensioned to engage one of the diverter locking mechanisms 70 that project from the diverter 60. One rib 122 is provided for each locking mechanism 70. Each rib 122 engages a corresponding locking mechanism 70, thereby axially securing the first sealing plate 102 with respect to the diverter 60.The ribs 122 and the locking devices 70 are positioned such that each of the diverter supports 76 engages with a corresponding area of ​​a through-opening 110 of the first plate, thereby preventing the first sealing plate 102 from rotating relative to the diverter 60.

[0066] The base-facing surface 106 of the first plate faces the second sealing assembly 200, and the end surface 114 of the projection 112 directly contacts an opposite surface 204 of the second sealing assembly 200. Since the first sealing plate 102 rotates relative to the second sealing assembly 200 along with the diverter 60 during valve operation, the projection 112 of the base-facing surface 106 of the first plate provides a dynamic sealing surface for the sealing assembly 80. Because the seal between the first and second sealing plates 102, 202 is dynamic (e.g., the seal is formed between two relatively moving parts), the first sealing plate 102 is made of a highly wear-resistant material. For example, in some embodiments, the first sealing plate 102 may be made of ceramic or stainless steel. In other embodiments, the first sealing plate 102 may be a plastic such as polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

[0067] The first sealing plate 102 is a thin plate in that its axial dimension or thickness in a direction perpendicular to the axial dimension is smaller than the dimension of the first sealing plate 102 (e.g., smaller than the diameter of the first sealing plate 102). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the first sealing plate 102 can be in a range from 10 times to 20 times the thickness of the first sealing plate.

[0068] The first elastic element 132 is an elastic link with a shape that, viewed in plan, mimics the shape of the first sealing plate 102. The first elastic element 132 comprises an outer section 134 extending around the circumference, an inner section 136 extending around the circumference, and struts 138 extending radially between the outer section 134 and the inner section 136, giving the first elastic element 132 the appearance of a spoked wheel when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58. The first elastic element 132 has through-openings 140 defined between the outer and inner sections 134 and 136, and each pair of adjacent struts 138.In this configuration, the through-openings 140 of the first element are generally sector-shaped. The fluid flows through the first elastic element 132 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the first elastic element 132 includes five through-holes 140(1), 140(2), 140(3), 140(4), 140(5) of the first element, which have the same arrangement as the through-holes 110 of the first plate, and when the first elastic element 132 is joined with the first sealing plate, the through-holes 140(1), 140(2), 140(3), 140(4), 140(5) of the first element are axially aligned with respective through-holes 110(1), 110(2), 110(3), 110(4), 110(5) of the first plate.

[0069] The surface 135 of the first elastic element 132 facing the diverter faces the diverter surface 61 facing the base and directly contacts it. Specifically, the first elastic element 132 is partially received in the diverter channel 68, which is shaped and dimensioned to accommodate the surface 135 of the first elastic element facing the diverter and its circumferential edges 139 in a clearance fit, for example, a sliding fit. The engagement between the circumferential edges 139 of the elastic element and the surfaces of the diverter channel 68 serves to prevent relative rotation of the first elastic element 132 relative to the diverter 60. Thus, both the first elastic element 132 and the first sealing plate 102 are fixed with respect to the valve body 20.

[0070] The first elastic element 132 has greater elasticity than the first sealing plate 102. Furthermore, the first elastic element 132 is made of an elastic material that is compatible with the fluid flowing through the rotary valve 18 and meets the requirements for operating temperature and durability. For example, if the rotary valve 18 is used to control fluid in a vehicle coolant system, the first elastic element 132 is made of an elastomer compatible with automotive coolants, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM).

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer section 134 of the first element, the inner section 136 of the first element, and the struts 138 of the first element of the first elastic element 132 have a rectangular cross-section. The softness and elasticity of the first elastic element 132 can be further increased and / or optimized by providing the outer and inner sections 134, 136 of the first element and the struts 138 of the first element with an irregular cross-sectional shape. For example, in some embodiments, the outer and inner sections 134, 136 of the first element and the struts 138 of the first element can have a non-circular and non-rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0072] The first elastic element 132 is thin in that its axial dimension or thickness is much smaller than its dimension in a direction perpendicular to the axial dimension (e.g., much smaller than its diameter). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the first elastic element 132 can range from 10 to 20 times its thickness. However, the thickness of the first elastic element 132 is approximately equal to the thickness of the first sealing plate 102. Furthermore, the diameter of the first elastic element 132 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the first sealing plate 102.

[0073] The second sealing assembly 200 is an arrangement of two sealing elements. In particular, the second sealing assembly 200 comprises a second sealing plate 202, which is arranged between the first sealing assembly 100 and the valve body 20, and a second elastic element 232, which is arranged between the second sealing plate 202 and the valve body 20. The second sealing plate 202 and the second elastic element 232 are stacked parallel to the axis of rotation 58. When viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58, each of the second elastic element 232 and the second sealing plate 202 has a shape similar to that of the surfaces of the valve body 20 facing the cover. The second elastic element 232 and the second sealing plate 202 will now be described in more detail.

[0074] The second sealing plate 202 comprises an outer section 201, a middle section 203, and an inner section 205. The outer, middle, and inner sections 201, 203, and 205 of the second plate are arranged annularly and radially spaced from one another. The outer, middle, and inner sections 201, 203, and 205 of the second plate are arranged concentrically such that they are centered on the axis of rotation 58, with the middle section 203 positioned between the outer and inner sections 201 and 205. The second sealing plate 202 includes the struts 209 of the second plate, which extend radially between the outer section 201 and the inner section 205 of the second plate and intersect the middle section 203 of the second plate. The inner section 205 of the second plate includes a central opening 207, which is configured so that the valve shaft 56 can extend through it.

[0075] The second sealing plate 202 has second through-openings 210 defined between the outer and middle sections 201, 203 of the plate and each pair of adjacent struts 209 of the second plate, and between the middle and inner sections 203, 205 of the plate and each pair of adjacent struts 209 of the second plate. The struts 209 of the second plate are not equidistant, so that the respective second through-openings 210 of the second plate do not each have the same arc length.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, five struts 209 are present. Consequently, the second sealing plate 202 includes ten through-openings 210(1), 210(2), 210(3), 210(4), 210(5), 210(6), 210(7), 210(8), 210(9), 210(10). Five of the ten through-openings, which are referred to as the "radially innermost through-openings" (e.g., through-openings 210(1), 210(4), 210(5), 210(8), 210(9)), are sector-shaped and arranged between the central section 203 and the inner section 205. The remaining through-openings 210, which are referred to as the “radially outermost through-openings” (e.g., through-openings 210(2), 210(3), 210(6) and 210(7); 210(10)), are arranged between the outer section 201 and the middle section 203.The radially outermost through-openings 210(2), 210(3), 210(6), 210(7), 210(10) are each radially aligned with one of the radially innermost through-openings 210(1), 210(4), 210(5), 210(8), 210(9), and have the shape of a truncated circular sector (e.g., of an arc).

[0077] The outer section 201 of the second plate has a circumferential surface 308 of the second plate, which faces the side wall 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the circumferential surface 308 of the plate is circular.

[0078] Each of the valve body supports 36 engages a respective surface of a through-opening 210 of the second plate, thereby preventing the second sealing plate 202 from rotating relative to the valve body 20.

[0079] The surfaces 204, 206 of the second plate facing the diverter and the base are planar (e.g., flat or even and uniform without raised areas, protrusions, recesses, indentations, or surface features or irregularities). The surface 204 of the second sealing plate 202 facing the diverter forms a section of the dynamic seal of the sealing assembly 80. In particular, the surface 204 facing the diverter faces the protrusion 112 of the first sealing plate 102 of the first sealing assembly 100 and directly contacts it. Since the first sealing assembly 100 rotates relative to the valve body 20 together with the diverter 60 during valve operation, the first sealing plate 102 is rotatable relative to the second sealing plate 202. For this reason, the second sealing plate 202 is rigid and made of a highly wear-resistant material. In some embodiments, the second sealing plate 202 may, for example, be made of ceramic or stainless steel.In other embodiments, the second sealing plate 202 can be a plastic such as polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0080] The second sealing plate 202 is a thin plate in that its axial dimension or thickness in a direction perpendicular to the axial dimension is much smaller than the dimension of the second sealing plate 202 (e.g., much smaller than the diameter of the second sealing plate 202). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the second sealing plate 202 can range from 10 times to 20 times the thickness of the second sealing plate. However, the second sealing plate 202 has approximately the same thickness as the first sealing plate 102.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the second elastic element 232 has the same profile as the second sealing plate 202 when the second elastic element is viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58.

[0082] The second elastic element 232 comprises an outer section 231, a middle section 233, and an inner section 235. The outer, middle, and inner sections 231, 233, 235 of the second element are annular and radially spaced apart. They are arranged concentrically such that they are centered on the axis of rotation 58, with the middle section 233 positioned between the outer and inner sections 231 and 235. The second sealing element 232 includes the struts 239 of the second element, which extend radially between the outer section 231 and the inner section 235 of the second element and intersect the middle section 233.The inner section 235 of the second element includes a central opening 237, which is configured so that the valve shaft 56 can extend through it.

[0083] The second elastic element 232 has through-openings 240 defined between the outer and middle sections 201, 203 of the element and each pair of adjacent struts 239 of the second element, and between the middle and inner sections 203, 205 of the element and each pair of adjacent second element struts 239. The struts 239 of the second element are not equidistant, so the through-openings 240 of the second element do not each have the same arc length.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, five struts 239 are present. Consequently, the second sealing element 202 includes ten through-openings 240(1), 240(2), 240(3), 240(4), 240(5), 240(6), 240(7), 240(8), 240(9), 240(10). Five of the ten through-openings, which are referred to as the "radially innermost through-openings" (e.g., through-openings 240(1), 240(4), 240(5), 240(8), 240(9)), are sector-shaped and arranged between the central section 203 of the element and the inner section 205 of the element. The remaining through-openings 240, which are referred to as the “radially outermost through-openings” (e.g., through-openings 240(2), 240(3), 240(6) and 240(7); 240(10)), are arranged between the outer section 201 and the middle section 203.The radially outermost through-openings 240(2), 240(3), 240(6), 240(7), 240(10) are each radially aligned with one of the radially innermost through-openings 240(1), 240(4), 240(5), 240(8), 240(9), and have the shape of a truncated circular sector (e.g., of an arc).

[0085] The base-facing surface 236 of the second elastic element 232 faces the channel 28 provided in the valve body 20 and is received by it. Specifically, the second elastic element 232 lies within the channel 28, which is shaped and dimensioned to receive the base-facing surface 236 of the elastic element and the circumferential edges 238 in a clearance fit, for example, a sliding fit. The engagement between the circumferential edges 238 of the elastic element and the surfaces of the channel 28 serves to prevent relative rotation of the second elastic element 232 relative to the valve body 20. Thus, both the second elastic element 232 and the second sealing plate 202 are fixed relative to the valve body 20.

[0086] The second elastic element 232 has greater elasticity than the second sealing plate 202. Furthermore, the second elastic element 232 is made of an elastic material that is compatible with the fluid flowing through the rotary valve 18 and meets the requirements for operating temperature and durability. For example, if the rotary valve 18 is used to control fluid in a vehicle coolant system, the second elastic element 232 is made of an elastomer compatible with automotive coolants, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM).

[0087] In addition to material selection, the softness and elasticity of the second elastic element 232 can be further increased and / or optimized by providing the outer, middle, and inner sections 231, 233, 235 of the second element and the struts 239 of the second element with an irregular cross-sectional shape. For example, in some embodiments, the outer, middle, and inner sections 231, 233, 235 of the second element and the struts 239 of the second element can have a non-circular and non-rectangular cross-sectional shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer, middle, and inner sections 231, 233, 235 of the second element and the struts 239 of the second element each have a rectangular cross-section.

[0088] The second elastic element 232 is thin in that its axial dimension or thickness is much smaller than its dimension in a direction perpendicular to the axial dimension (e.g., much smaller than its diameter). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the second elastic element 232 can range from 10 to 20 times its thickness. However, the thickness of the second elastic element 232 is approximately equal to the thickness of the second sealing plate 202, and its diameter is equal to the diameter of the second sealing plate 202.

[0089] With reference to Fig. In the rotary valve 18, the spring 49 is arranged between the cover 44 and the diverter 60. As in the previous embodiment, the spring 49 is under pressure, thereby biasing the diverter 60 towards the valve body base 26 and exerting a sealing force on the sealing arrangement 80. In particular, the spring 49 pushes the diverter 60 towards the valve body base 26, with the sealing arrangement 80 positioned between them to provide a fluid-tight seal within the rotary valve 18, consisting of several static seals and one dynamic seal. In the illustrated embodiment, a fluid-tight first static seal is provided between the diverter surface 61 facing the base and the diverter-facing surface 135 of the first elastic element 132.A fluid-tight second static seal is provided between the base-facing surface 133 of the first elastic element 132 and the diverter-facing surface 104 of the first sealing plate 102. A fluid-tight dynamic seal is provided between the base-facing surface 106 of the first sealing plate 102 and the diverter-facing surface 204 of the second sealing plate 202 (in particular between the projection 112 and the diverter-facing surface 204 of the second sealing plate 202). A fluid-tight third static seal is provided between the base-facing surface 206 of the second sealing plate 202 and the diverter-facing surface 234 of the second elastic element 232. Furthermore, a fluid-tight fourth static seal is provided between the base-facing surface 236 of the second elastic element 232 and the valve body channel 28.

[0090] The first sealing assembly 100 rests against the diverter 60, so that it is located in the diverter channel 68, and has through-openings 110, 140 that are aligned with the diverter through-openings 63. The second sealing assembly 200 rests against the valve body 20, so that it is located in the valve body channel 28, and has through-openings 210, 240 that are aligned with a corresponding subchamber 32 of the valve body 20. In certain rotational positions of the diverter 60 relative to the valve body 20, a subset of the through-openings 110, 140 and 210, 240 of the first and second sealing assemblies are aligned with each other, thus providing flow paths between the diverter 60 and the valve body 20.

[0091] While the first sealing assembly 100 prevents fluid flow between the sealing arrangement 80 and the diverter 60, and the second sealing assembly 200 prevents fluid flow between the sealing arrangement 80 and the valve body 20, the dynamic seal is provided between adjacent parts of the first and second sealing assemblies 100, 200. The dynamic seal prevents fluid flow between the contact surfaces of the first and second sealing assemblies 100, 200 and retains fluid in the through-holes 110, 140, 210, 240 of the sealing arrangement 80.

[0092] In the rotary valve 18, the diverter 60 is configured to control fluid flow through the valve body 20 such that fluid enters the valve body 20 via one or more ports 33 and flows through the respective subchambers 32, which direct the fluid via the sealing assembly 80 to the diverter 60. The path through the diverter 60 depends on the rotational orientation of the diverter 60 relative to the valve body 20, as discussed below. The fluid exits the diverter 60 and is directed via the sealing assembly 80 to the valve body 20, where the fluid exits the valve 18 via a different port 33 than the one through which it entered.

[0093] As previously described, the diverter 60 includes the domes 65, which project from the outer surface 62 of the diverter and are located above each of the diverter through-openings 63(1), 63(2), 63(3), 63(4), 63(5), thereby providing a section of a closed fluid passage within the rotary valve 18. The first to fourth domes 65(1), 65(2), 65(3), 65(4), corresponding to the respective first to fourth diverter through-openings 63(1), 63(2), 63(3), 63(4), which have a relatively longer radial dimension compared to that of the fifth through-opening 63(5) of the diverter, are configured to divert fluid in a radial direction. Furthermore, the fifth dome 65(5) and the diverter cutout 64 (which provides a section of an “open” fluid passage) allow fluid flow in a circumferential direction.

[0094] The rotary valve 18 can be operated in four modes, each mode corresponding to a specific rotational orientation of the diverter 60 relative to the valve body 20. The four operating modes will now be described in more detail.

[0095] With reference to the Fig. 15A and Fig. 15B corresponds to the first operating mode of a first rotational alignment of the diverter 60 with respect to the valve body 20. In the first operating mode, the first dome 65(1) is axially aligned with the first and third sub-chambers 32(1), 32(3), the second dome 65(2) is axially aligned with the second and fourth sub-chambers 32(2), 32(4), the third dome 65(3) is axially aligned with the seventh and fifth sub-chambers 32(7), 32(5), the fourth dome 65(4) is axially aligned with the sixth and eighth sub-chambers 32(6), 32(8), the fifth dome 65(5) is axially aligned with the non-working sub-chamber 32(9), and the cutout 64 is axially aligned with the non-working sub-chamber 32(10).

[0096] In the first operating mode, the first and third ports 33(1), 33(3) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the first dome 65(1), the second and fourth ports 33(2), 33(4) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the second dome 65(2), the fifth and seventh ports 33(5), 33(7) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the third dome 65(3), and the sixth and eighth ports 33(6), 33(8) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the fourth dome 65(4). The fifth dome 65(5) and the cutout 64 do not provide a fluid path while the valve 18 is in the first operating mode.

[0097] With reference to the Fig. 16A and Fig. 16B corresponds to the second operating mode of a second rotational alignment of the diverter 60 with respect to the valve body 20. In the second operating mode, the first dome 65(1) is axially aligned with the fifth and seventh sub-chambers 32(5), 32(7), the second dome 65(2) is axially aligned with the sixth and eighth sub-chambers 32(6), 32(8), the third and fourth domes 65(3), 65(4) are axially aligned with the non-working sub-chambers 32(9), 32(10), and the fifth dome 65(5) and the cutout 64 are axially aligned with the first to fourth sub-chambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4).

[0098] In the second operating mode, the first and fourth ports 33(1), 33(4) are in fluidic connection via a circumferential flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the fifth dome 65(5), the second and third ports 33(2), 33(3) are in fluidic connection via a circumferential flow path, as provided by the cutout 64, the fifth and seventh ports 33(5), 33(7) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the first dome 65(1), and the sixth and eighth ports 33(6), 33(8) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the second dome 65(2).

[0099] With reference to the Fig. 17A and Fig. 17B corresponds to the third operating mode of a third rotational alignment of the diverter 60 with respect to the valve body 20. In the third operating mode, the first dome 65(1) is axially aligned with the sixth and eighth sub-chambers 32(6), 32(8), the second and third domes 65(2), 65(3) are axially aligned with the non-working sub-chambers 32(9), 32(10), the fourth dome 65(4) is axially aligned with the first and third sub-chambers 32(1), 32(3), and the fifth dome 65(5) and the cutout 64 are axially aligned with the second, fourth, fifth and seventh sub-chambers 32(2), 32(4), 32(5), 32(7).

[0100] In the third operating mode, the first and third ports 33(1), 33(3) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the fourth dome 65(4), the second and seventh ports 33(2), 33(7) are in fluidic connection via a circumferential flow path, as provided by the cutout 64, the fourth and fifth ports 33(4), 33(6) are in fluidic connection via a circumferential flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the fifth dome 65(5), and the sixth and eighth ports 33(6), 33(8) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the first dome 65(1).

[0101] With reference to the Fig. 18A and Fig. 18B corresponds to the fourth operating mode of a fourth rotational alignment of the diverter 60 with respect to the valve body 20. In the fourth operating mode, the first and second domes 65(1), 65(2) are axially aligned with the non-working sub-chambers 32(9), 32(10), the third dome 65(3) is axially aligned with the first and third sub-chambers 32(1), 32(3), the fourth dome 65(4) is axially aligned with the second and fourth sub-chambers 32(2), 32(3), and the fifth dome 65(5) and the cutout 64 are axially aligned with the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth sub-chambers 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8).

[0102] In the fourth operating mode, the first and third ports 33(1), 33(3) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the third dome 65(3), the second and fourth ports 33(2), 33(4) are in fluidic connection via a radial flow path, as provided by the fourth dome 65(4), the fifth and eighth ports 33(5), 33(8) are in fluidic connection via a circumferential flow path through the diverter 60, as provided by the fifth dome 65(5), and the sixth and seventh ports 33(6), 33(7) are in fluidic connection via a circumferential flow path, as provided by the cutout 64.

[0103] With reference to the Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 A rotary disc valve 218 of an alternative embodiment resembles the one described above with reference to the Fig. The rotary valve 18 described in sections 1-18 is described, and common reference numbers are used to identify common elements. For example, the rotary valve 218 is a type of directional control valve that can be used in the fluid supply system 1 to control the fluid flow and distribution through the system 1, and includes the valve body 20, the cover 44, the cover seal 56, the shaft seal 54, and the cover spring 49, as previously described. The rotary valve 218 of the Fig. 19 and Fig. The embodiment 20 differs from the previous embodiment in that the dynamic seal between two sealing assemblies is omitted. For this purpose, the rotary disc valve 218 includes a diverter 260 of an alternative embodiment and a sealing arrangement 280 of an alternative embodiment, each of which is arranged in the valve chamber 29.

[0104] The sealing arrangement 280 of the alternative embodiment is identical to the second sealing assembly 200 described above, and the first sealing assembly is omitted.

[0105] The diverter 260 is similar to the one above, with reference to the Fig. 12 and Fig. The diverter 60 described in section 13 is identical, except that the first sealing plate 102 is integral with the base-facing surface 61. Thus, the base-facing surface 261 of the diverter 260 provides a section of the dynamic seal, as discussed below.

[0106] The diverter 260 is rotatable relative to the valve body 20 about the axis of rotation 58. The diverter 260 is a flat plate with an irregular circumferential shape and includes a base-facing surface 261, which points towards the base 26, and a cover-facing surface 62, which is opposite the base-facing surface 261 of the diverter. Although the diverter 260 is generally circular, it has an arc-shaped cutout 64 along the circumference of one sector of the diverter 260.

[0107] The diverter 260 has the valve shaft 56, which projects from the center of the diverter's outer surface 62 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the diverter surface 261 facing the base. The diverter 260 includes the diverter passage openings 63 with a circular sector-shaped profile when the diverter 260 is viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 58, as previously described. The diverter 260 includes domes 65, which project from the outer surface 62 of the diverter and, as previously described, are located above each of the diverter passage openings 63(1), 63(2), 63(3), 63(4), 63(5).

[0108] The base-facing diverter surface 261, which includes an end face of the projection 55, faces a corresponding diverter-facing surface 135 of the sealing arrangement 80. The base-facing diverter surface 261 is generally planar. Due to the size and shape of the diverter through-openings 63, the base-facing diverter surface 261, viewed from below, resembles a wheel with spokes and a hub. In the illustrated embodiment, the base-facing surface 261 of the diverter has a narrow projection 212 that surrounds the through-openings 63, surrounds the shaft 56, and includes radial spokes arranged between the through-openings 63, giving the projection 212 the appearance of a wheel when viewed from below.The annular projection 212 is narrow in the radial direction, and an end surface 214 of the annular projection 212 interacts with and / or engages with the opposite planar surface 204 of the sealing plate 232 of the sealing arrangement 280 to form a fluid-tight dynamic seal.

[0109] The diverter 260 and the first and second sealing plates 102, 202 can be made of plastic, ceramic, stainless steel, or another material with sufficient rigidity and wear resistance. In the illustrated embodiment, the diverter 260 is, for example, made of a plastic such as polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

[0110] The above, referring to Fig. The rotary disc valve 18 described in 1-18 is illustrated by a dynamic seal between the first and second sealing plates 102, 202, while the one described in the Fig. 19 and Fig. The rotary disc valve 218 described in section 20 is illustrated by a dynamic seal between the diverter 260 and the sealing plate 202 of the sealing arrangement 280.

[0111] With reference to the Fig. 21-23 is a rotary disc valve 318 of an alternative embodiment to the one described above with reference to the Fig. The rotary valve 318 is similar to the rotary valve 18 described in 1-18, and common reference numerals are used to identify common elements. For example, the rotary valve 318 is a type of directional control valve integrated into a module housing 352 of a thermal control module 350 and can be used in the fluid supply system 1 to control fluid flow and distribution through the system 1. As in previous embodiments, the rotary valve 318 includes the cover 44, the cover seal 56, the shaft seal 54, the sealing assembly 80, and the cover spring 49 as previously described. The rotary valve 318 of the Fig. 21-23 differs from the previous embodiments in that the valve body is configured for integration into the module housing 352. For this purpose, the rotary valve 318 includes a valve body 320 of an alternative embodiment. The valve body 320 of the rotary valve 318 is similar to the valve body 20 described above, and common reference numerals are used to identify common elements.

[0112] The valve body 320 differs from the preceding embodiments with respect to the arrangement of the valve ports 333. Each of the valve ports 333 corresponds to an opening in the valve body base 326 and is connected to a corresponding subchamber 32.

[0113] In particular, the radially innermost working subchambers 32(1), 32(4), 32(5), 32(8) and the radially outermost working subchambers 32(2), 32(3), 32(6), 32(7) each adjoin the base 326, and each valve port 333(1), 333(2), 333(3), 333(4), 333(5), 333(6), 333(7), 333(8) is directly connected to one of the subchambers 32, the term “directly” referring to the absence of intermediate structures such as fluid passages. Fluid exiting the valve body 320 leaves the corresponding valve port 333 along a linear path parallel to the valve axis of rotation 58 and is received in a distributor 354, which is defined in the module housing 352 and adjoins the base 326 of the valve body 320. The valve ports 333 have the same arrangement with respect to the sealing arrangement 80 and the diverter 60 as described in the previous embodiments.

[0114] There may be other variants of the valve body 320. For example, in some embodiments, each of the radially innermost working chambers 32(1), 32(4), 32(5), 32(8) adjoins the base 326 and is in fluidic communication with a respective valve port 333 provided in the base 326, while each of the radially outermost working chambers 32(2), 32(3), 32(6), 32(7) adjoins the valve body side wall 21 and is in direct communication with a respective valve port 333 provided in the valve body side wall 21.

[0115] In other embodiments, each subchamber 32 can be connected to a port 333, which, depending on the valve installation requirements of the specific application, is provided either in the valve body side wall 21 or in the base 326. With reference to the Fig.For example, in the valve body 420 of the alternative embodiment, two of the radially innermost working chambers 32(1), 32(8) and two of the radially outermost working chambers 32(2), 32(3) each adjoin the base 426 and are directly connected to a respective valve port 433(1), 433(2), 433(3), 433(8) that passes through the valve body base 426. Fluid exits these valve ports 433(1), 433(2), 433(3), 433(8) in an axial direction. Furthermore, the two other radially innermost working chambers 32(4), 32(5) and the two other radially outermost working chambers 32(6), 32(7) are each connected to a respective valve port 433(4), 433(5), 433(6), 433(7) which extends through the valve body side wall 421. Fluid exits in a radial direction from the valve ports 433(6), 433(7) of the radially outermost working chambers 32(6), 32(7).In this example, the radially innermost working chambers 32(4), 32(5) are connected to their respective valve ports 433(4), 433(5) via a respective base fluid passage 435(2), 435(3). Each of the base fluid channels 435(2), 435(3) extends along a linear path that is not radial with respect to the valve axis of rotation 58. The valve ports 433 have the same arrangement with respect to the sealing arrangement 80 and the diverter 60 as described in the previous embodiments.

[0116] In each of the illustrated embodiments, a cover 44 is provided which closes the open end of the valve body 20. In other embodiments (not shown), however, the cover 44 can be omitted, and the open end of the valve body 20 can be closed by a housing of the valve actuator, a section of a module housing, or another accessory structure.

[0117] In each of the illustrated embodiments, the valve body 20 includes a central sliding bearing 25 that projects from the base 26 to the open end 23 of the side wall. The sliding bearing 25 receives the second section 59 of the valve stem, which projects from the base-facing surface 61 of the diverter 60. In some embodiments, however, the rotary disc valve may include a valve body 20 in which the second section 59 of the valve stem and the sliding bearing 25 are omitted.

[0118] In each of the illustrated embodiments, the spring 49 biases the diverter 60 towards the valve body base 26 and provides a sealing force for the sealing assembly 80. In other embodiments, however, the rotary disc valve may include a valve body 20 in which the spring 49 is omitted. In the latter case, an interference fit between the cover 44 and the diverter 60 can provide the axial force on the sealing assembly 80. The springless configuration can also be used in some embodiments in which the section 59 of the valve stem and the sliding bearing 25 are omitted.

[0119] In each of the illustrated embodiments, the working subchambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4), 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8) of the valve body 20 have an arc length ℓ1 in a range of 30 degrees to 60 degrees, and the remaining subchambers 32(9), 32(10) have an arc length f2 in a range of 120 degrees to 240 degrees. However, the valve body 20 is not limited to this configuration. In other embodiments, the arc lengths ℓ1 and ℓ2 of the working and non-working subchambers may, for example, be the same.

[0120] In each of the illustrated embodiments, the working chambers 32(1), 32(2), 32(3), 32(4), 32(5), 32(6), 32(7), 32(8) of the valve body 20 are in fluidic communication with a corresponding valve port 33(1), 33(2), 33(3), 33(4), 33(5), 33(6), 33(7), 33(8), and the remaining chambers 32(9), 32(10) are not in fluidic communication with a valve port. In some embodiments, however, the valve body 20 includes an equal number of valve ports 33 and chambers 32, and each chamber 32 is in fluidic communication with a corresponding valve port 33.

[0121] Selective illustrative embodiments of the fluid supply system, including the rotary valve, are described in detail above. It is understood that only structures deemed necessary to explain the fluid supply system and the rotary valve have been described. It is assumed that those skilled in the art are familiar with and understand other conventional structures and those of subordinate and additional components of the fluid supply system and the rotary valve. Furthermore, although an embodiment of the fluid supply system and the rotary valve has been described above, the fluid supply system and the rotary valve are not limited to the embodiment described above; various design modifications can be made without deviating from the fluid supply system and / or the rotary valve as set forth in the claims.

Claims

[1] Valve, comprising: a valve housing, the valve housing comprising the following: an inner surface defining a chamber, chamber walls dividing the chamber into sub-chambers providing a section of a fluid path through the valve body, and valve ports, each valve port being connected to the chamber; a diverter arranged in the chamber, the diverter having a diverter outer diameter and configured to control fluid flow through the valve housing, the diverter including a shaft extending through an opening in the valve housing, the shaft being rotatable about an axis of rotation; and a sealing arrangement positioned in the chamber such that it is aligned along the axis of rotation with the diverter, wherein the sealing arrangement is configured to ensure a fluid-tight seal between the diverter and the valve body, where the diverter is configured to operate in at least one rotational orientation of the diverter with respect to the valve housing a) to redirect fluid flow circumferentially along a first circumferential fluid path section between a first sub-chamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a second sub-chamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and b) to redirect the fluid flow circumferentially along a second circumferential fluid path section between a third sub-chamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a fourth sub-chamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall. [2] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the second circumferential fluid path section is arranged radially outwards with respect to the first circumferential fluid path section, and wherein the first circumferential fluid path section and the second circumferential fluid path section are located in an area circumscribed by the diverter outer diameter. [3] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the first circumferential fluid path section and the second circumferential fluid path section are concentric. [4] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the diverter is configured to divert fluid flow radially along a first radial fluid path section between a fifth subchamber arranged between the axis of rotation and the side wall and a sixth subchamber arranged between the axis of rotation and the side wall in at least one rotational orientation of the diverter with respect to the valve housing. [5] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the diverter includes a dome that encloses the first circumferential fluid path section, and the dome does not enclose the second circumferential fluid path section. [6] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the diverter comprises: a diverter body with a sealing side and an outer side opposite the sealing side; a wave that protrudes from the outside and extends through an opening in the valve housing; Through openings extending between the sealing side and the outer surface; and Domes protruding from the outside, with each dome enclosing a specific one of the passageways. [7] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the diverter comprises: a diverter body with a sealing side and an outer side opposite the sealing side; a shaft that protrudes from the outside and extends through an opening in the valve casing; and Through openings extending between the sealing side and the outside; wherein at least one through-opening is arc-shaped and has a first radius, and at least one passage opening is circular sector-shaped and has a second radius, the second radius being smaller than the first radius. [8] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the sealing arrangement comprises a first sealing plate and a second sealing plate, the first sealing plate includes a sealing surface of the first plate, the second sealing plate includes a sealing surface of the second plate that rests against the sealing surface of the first plate and forms a fluid-tight seal with it, a planar surface comprising the sealing surface of the first plate and the sealing surface of the second plate, and the other comprises an annular projection from the sealing surface of the first plate and the sealing surface of the second plate, and an end surface of the annular projection interacts with the planar surface to form the fluid-tight seal. [9] Valve according to claim 8, wherein the first sealing plate is a disc-shaped plate which is fixed relative to the diverter, while the second sealing plate is a disc-shaped plate which is fixed relative to the base, whereby the first sealing plate is rotatable relative to the second sealing plate. [10] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the diverter is rotatable relative to the sealing arrangement, a base-facing surface of the diverter defines a diverter sealing surface, The sealing arrangement is stacked in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation with respect to the diverter, without any intermediate structures between the sealing arrangement and the diverter sealing surface. the sealing arrangement rests against the base and is fixed relative to the base, the sealing arrangement includes a sealing plate arranged between the base and the diverter, and an elastic element arranged between the base and the sealing plate, and a fluid-tight seal is located at the interface between the sealing plate and the sealing surface of the diverter. [11] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the subchambers comprise a first subchamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a second subchamber located between the first subchamber and the side wall. [12] Valve according to claim 1, wherein each valve port is connected to a specific subchamber. [13] Valve according to claim 12, wherein the chamber walls include base wall sections that protrude from the base, a first subset of the base wall sections connects the first subchamber with a corresponding valve connection of the first subchamber, and the first subset of the base wall sections defines a linear fluid passage that is not radial with respect to the axis of rotation. [14] Valve according to claim 13, wherein a second subset of the base wall sections connects the third sub-chamber to a corresponding valve connection of the third sub-chamber, and The second subset of the base wall sections defines a linear fluid passage that is radial with respect to the axis of rotation. [15] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the height of the side wall is less than the diameter of the side wall. [16] Valve according to claim 1, wherein the cover has a central opening through which a shaft of the diverter extends, the cover includes a shaft seal which prevents fluid from escaping between the shaft and the central opening, and the cover includes a cover seal which prevents fluid from escaping between the cover and the valve body. [17] Fluid supply system, comprising: a pump, and a rotary valve connected to the pump via a fluid line, the rotary valve comprising the following: a valve housing, the valve housing comprising the following: an inner surface defining a chamber, chamber walls dividing the chamber into sub-chambers providing a section of a fluid path through the valve body, and valve ports, each valve port being connected to the chamber; a diverter arranged in the chamber, the diverter having a diverter outer diameter and configured to control fluid flow through the valve housing, the diverter including a shaft extending through an opening in the valve housing, the shaft being rotatable about an axis of rotation; and a sealing arrangement positioned in the chamber such that it is aligned along the axis of rotation with the diverter, wherein the sealing arrangement is configured to ensure a fluid-tight seal between the diverter and the valve body, where the diverter is configured to operate in at least one rotational orientation of the diverter with respect to the valve housing a) to redirect fluid flow circumferentially along a first circumferential fluid path section between a first sub-chamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a second sub-chamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and b) to redirect the fluid flow circumferentially along a second circumferential fluid path section between a third sub-chamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall, and a fourth sub-chamber located between the axis of rotation and the side wall. [18] Valve according to claim 17, wherein the second circumferential fluid path section is arranged radially outwards with respect to the first circumferential fluid path section, and wherein the first circumferential fluid path section and the second circumferential fluid path section are located in an area circumscribed by the diverter outer diameter. [19] Valve according to claim 17, wherein the diverter includes a dome that encloses the first circumferential fluid path section, and the second circumferential fluid path section is not enclosed by a dome of the diverter. [20] Valve according to claim 17, wherein the diverter comprises: a diverter body with a sealing side and an outer side opposite the sealing side; a wave that protrudes from the outside and extends through an opening in the valve housing; Through openings extending between the sealing side and the outside; Domes protruding from the outside, with each dome enclosing a specific one of the passageways. [21] Valve according to claim 17, wherein the diverter comprises: a diverter plate with a sealing side and an outer side opposite the sealing side; a shaft that protrudes from the outside and extends through an opening in the valve casing; and Through openings extending between the sealing side and the outside; wherein at least one through-opening is sector-shaped and has a first radius, and at least one through-opening is sector-shaped and has a second radius, the second radius being smaller than the first radius.

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