Fluid control valve

Abstract

A housing (10) includes a cylinder (11), a bottom (12) provided on one side in the axial direction of the cylinder (11), and a port (13) penetrating an outer wall (14) and an inner wall (16) of the cylinder (11). A valve (40) is rotatably provided inside the housing (10) about a predetermined axial center (CL). A sealing member (50) is provided between the inner wall (16) of the housing (10) and the valve (40) and includes a surface (51) on the side of the housing (10) in contact with a periphery (131) of a port (13) in the inner wall (16) of the housing (10) and a surface (52) on the side of the valve (40) in sliding contact with a side wall (41) of the valve (40). A cover (20) closes an opening on the other side in the axial direction of the cylinder (11) of the housing (10).Within the cover (20), a cover-side regulating section (26) is provided which controls the movement of the sealing element (50) inward in the radial direction and to the other side in the axial direction of the cylinder (11).

Description

Cross-reference to related registration

[0001] This application is based on Japanese patent applications Nos. 2022-212180, 2022-212181, 2022-212182, 2022-212183 and 2022-212184, which were filed on December 28, 2022. The complete disclosures of all the above-mentioned applications are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a fluid control valve. background

[0003] A fluid control valve is known that controls a fluid flow by switching the connection and interrupting between a plurality of ports provided in a housing.

[0004] The fluid control valve described in patent literature 1 is configured such that a cylindrical valve is rotatably arranged in a cylindrical housing with a base, which contains a plurality of ports, with a sealing element positioned between them, and the opening of the housing on the side opposite the base is closed by a cover. The sealing element is provided on a portion where the plurality of ports are formed and is physically compressed in the thickness direction by the housing and the valve to adhere to both, thereby preventing fluid leakage between the plurality of flow paths in the housing. In this sealing element, the radial movement of the housing is regulated by a recess provided in the base of the housing, and the circumferential movement of the housing is regulated by a step provided in the cylinder of the housing. Literature on the state of the art Patent literature

[0005] Patent literature 1: WO 2022 / 218407 Summary of the invention

[0006] The fluid control valve described in patent literature 1, however, lacks a configuration that regulates the movement of a portion of the sealing element on the cover side inwards along the radial direction of the housing. Therefore, if the radius of curvature of the sealing element in the component's state is larger than the radius of curvature of the housing's inner wall (e.g., if the sealing element has a planar shape before assembly with the housing), the sliding resistance between the sealing element and the valve increases due to the sealing element's restoring force back to a planar shape. Consequently, a high-output motor, a high-reduction gearbox, or similar device is required as an actuator to drive the valve. This, in addition to increasing the size of the actuator, results in increased operating noise, power consumption, and electrical interference during valve rotation.

[0007] If the pressure force between the inner wall of the housing and the sealing element is reduced due to the force of the sealing element returning to a planar shape, the sealing ability may deteriorate and the amount of fluid leakage between the multiple flow paths in the housing may increase.

[0008] The aim of the present disclosure is to reduce the torque during valve rotation and simultaneously to decrease the amount of fluid leakage between a plurality of flow paths in a housing in a fluid control valve.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a fluid control valve comprises: a housing containing a cylinder, a base on one side in the axial direction of the cylinder, and a port penetrating an outer wall and an inner wall of the cylinder; a valve rotatable within the housing about a predetermined center of axis and having a flow path recessed radially from an outer side wall to the center of axis; a sealing element provided between an inner wall of the housing and the valve, having a surface on a housing side in contact with a periphery of the port in the inner wall of the housing, and a surface on a valve side in sliding contact with the side wall of the valve; a cover closing an opening of the cylinder of the housing on another side in the axial direction;and a cover-side regulating section provided within the cover and configured to regulate movement of the sealing element inwards in the radial direction and towards the other side in the axial direction of the cylinder.

[0010] Accordingly, when the cover is mounted to the housing after the sealing element and valve have been inserted into the housing during the manufacturing of the fluid control valve, the cover-side regulating section can prevent displacement of the sealing element. Even after the cover is mounted to the housing, the cover-side regulating section can prevent displacement of the sealing element. This makes it possible to maintain a condition in which the side wall of the valve and the sealing element are in sliding contact with each other, with low sliding resistance, and the inner wall of the housing and the sealing element are in contact with each other, thus ensuring a seal to prevent fluid leakage between the flow paths in the housing.

[0011] Since the cover-side regulating section also prevents the sealing element from moving radially inwards along the cylinder, an increase in sliding resistance between the valve's side wall and the sealing element during valve rotation can be prevented, and the torque during valve rotation can be reduced. Therefore, the fluid control valve can reduce the size of the actuator driving the valve and also reduce operating noise, power consumption, and electrical noise during valve rotation.

[0012] A reference numeral in parentheses, appended to each element or the like, indicates an example of the correspondence between the element or the like and a specific element or the like described in an embodiment to be described later. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a front view of a fluid control valve according to the first and sixth embodiments. Fig. 2 is a side view in the direction of II from Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a top view in direction III from Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along line IV-IV in Fig. 3 without actuator. Fig. Figure 5 is a side view illustrating only the valve of the fluid control valve. Fig. Figure 6 is a front view illustrating only the housing of the fluid control valve. Fig. 7 is a top view looking towards VII from Fig. 6. Fig. 8 is a sectional view along line VIII-VIII of Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 9 is an enlarged view of Section IX in Fig. 8. Fig. Figure 10 is a bottom view of only the cover of the fluid control valve, seen from the housing side. Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view illustrating only one sealing element in a state removed from the housing. Fig. Figure 12 is a perspective view illustrating only one sealing element in a mounted state on the housing. Fig. Figure 13 is a top view illustrating a state in which the housing and sealing element are mounted. Fig. Figure 14 is an explanatory view to illustrate how a planar sealing element is bent and fitted to the housing. Fig. 15 is a sectional view along line XV-XV in Fig. Figure 11 illustrates an example of the sealing element in a state prior to assembly on the housing. Fig. 16 is a sectional view along line XVI-XVI in Fig. Figure 11 illustrates an example of a sealing element in the state prior to assembly on the housing. Fig. 17 is a sectional view along line XVI-XVI in Fig. Figure 11 illustrates another example of the sealing element in the state prior to assembly on the housing. Fig. 18 is a sectional view along line XVI-XVI of Fig. Figure 11 illustrates another example of the sealing element in the state before assembly on the housing. Fig. Figure 19 is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a second embodiment. Fig. 20 is a top view in the direction of XX from Fig. 19. Fig. 21 is a sectional view along line XXI-XXI of Fig. 20. Fig. Figure 22 is a sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a third embodiment. Fig. 23 is a sectional view along line XXIII-XXIII of Fig. 22. Fig. Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. Figure 25 is an enlarged view of Section XXV in Fig. 24. Fig. Figure 26 is a top view of a fluid control valve according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view along line XXVII-XXVII of Fig. 26. Fig. Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a seventh embodiment. Fig. Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to an eighth embodiment. Fig. Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a ninth embodiment. Fig. Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a tenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to an eleventh embodiment. Fig. Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a twelfth embodiment. Fig. Figure 34 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a thirteenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 35 is a front view of a fluid control valve according to the fourteenth and nineteenth embodiments. Fig. Figure 36 is a side view of the fluid control valve according to the fourteenth and nineteenth embodiments. Fig. Figure 37 is a top view of the fluid control valve according to the fourteenth and nineteenth embodiments. Fig. 38 is a cross-sectional view along the in Fig. 37 illustrated lines XXXVIII-XXXVIII. Fig. Figure 39 is a front view of a housing according to the fourteenth and nineteenth embodiments. Fig. 40 is a top view of the housing according to the fourteenth embodiment, seen from a direction of a Fig. 39 with arrow marked XL. Fig. Figure 41 is a view illustrating the opening sections according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. Figure 42 is a view illustrating a valve according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. 43 is a sectional view along the in Fig. 35 shown line XLIII-XLIII. Fig. Figure 44 is an evolving view in the circumferential direction of the valve according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. Figure 45 is a view illustrating the fluid passages according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. Figure 46 is a view illustrating a condition in which a sealing element is attached to the housing according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. Figure 47 is a view illustrating a condition prior to the attachment of the sealing element to the housing according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. Figure 48 is a view illustrating a state in which the sealing element is attached to the housing according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. Figure 49 is a view illustrating a ninth fluid passage according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. Figure 50 is a view illustrating the fluid flow through the ninth fluid passage according to the fourteenth, nineteenth and twenty-second embodiments. Fig. Figure 51 is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a fifteenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 52 is a view illustrating a condition prior to the attachment of the sealing element to the housing according to the fifteenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 53 is a view illustrating a valve according to a fifteenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 54 is a view illustrating the fluid flow through an eleventh fluid passage according to the fifteenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 55 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to a sixteenth embodiment. Fig. 56 is a sectional view along the in Fig. 55 shown line LVI-LVI. Fig. Figure 57 is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a seventeenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 58 is a top view of the fluid control valve according to the seventeenth embodiment. Fig. 59 is a sectional view along the in Fig. 58 illustrated line LIX-LIX. Fig. Figure 60 is a top view of a fluid control valve according to a modification of the seventeenth embodiment. Fig. 61 is a sectional view along the in Fig. 60 illustrated lines LXI-LXI. Fig. Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid control valve according to an eighteenth embodiment. Fig. Figure 63 is a view illustrating a condition in which fluid flowing in from an opening section on one side of two circumferentially arranged opening sections flows out of the opening section on the other side. Fig. Figure 64 is a view illustrating a type of valve that allows fluid to flow through two circumferentially arranged opening sections. Fig. Figure 65 is a view illustrating a condition in which fluid flowing in from the opening section on one side of the two opening sections arranged in the axis center direction flows out of the opening section on the other side. Fig. Figure 66 is a view illustrating a type of valve that allows fluid to flow through two opening sections arranged in the axis-center direction. Fig. Figure 67 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from one opening section exits from two opening sections. Fig. Figure 68 is a view illustrating another example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from one opening section exits from two opening sections. Fig. Figure 69 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from two opening sections exits from one opening section. Fig. Figure 70 is a view illustrating another example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from two opening sections exits from one opening section. Fig. Figure 71 is a view illustrating a form of valve that allows fluid flowing in from one opening section to exit from two opening sections, or allows fluid flowing in from two opening sections to exit from one opening section. Fig. Figure 72 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from three opening sections exits from two opening sections. Fig. Figure 73 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in through two opening sections exits through three opening sections. Fig. Figure 74 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from one opening section exits from four opening sections. Fig. Figure 75 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from four opening sections flows out of one opening section. Fig. Figure 76 is a view illustrating a type of valve that allows fluid entering from three opening sections to flow out of two opening sections, fluid entering from two opening sections to flow out of three opening sections, and the like. Fig. Figure 77 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from one opening section flows out from six opening sections. Fig. Figure 78 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from six opening sections flows out of one opening section. Fig. Figure 79 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from three opening sections flows out from four opening sections. Fig. Figure 80 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from five opening sections flows out of two opening sections. Fig. Figure 81 is a view illustrating a form of valve that allows fluid flowing in from one opening section to flow out of six opening sections, fluid flowing in from six opening sections to flow out of one opening section, and the like. Fig. Figure 82 is a view illustrating an example of a condition in which fluid flowing in from one opening section flows out from seven opening sections. Fig. Figure 83 is a view illustrating a type of valve that allows fluid flowing in from one opening section to flow out through seven opening sections. Fig. Figure 84 is a view illustrating a section in which a rib is not formed in a valve allowing fluid to flow to two circumferentially arranged opening sections. Fig. Figure 85 is a view to illustrate a section in which a rib is not formed in a valve that allows fluid to flow to two opening sections arranged in the axial center direction. Fig. Figure 86 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve that allows fluid to flow to three circumferentially arranged opening sections. Fig. Figure 87 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve that allows fluid to flow to three opening sections arranged in the axis center direction. Fig. Figure 88 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve having an opening section for fluid outflow in each of the axis center direction and circumferential direction with respect to an opening section for fluid inflow. Fig. Figure 89 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve having an opening section for fluid outflow in each of the axis center direction and circumferential direction with respect to an opening section for fluid inflow. Fig. Figure 90 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve having an opening section for fluid outflow in the circumferential direction with respect to an opening section for fluid inflow. Fig. Figure 91 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve having an opening section for fluid outflow in the axis center direction with respect to an opening section for fluid inflow. Fig. Figure 92 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve having opening sections for fluid inlet arranged in the axial direction and in the circumferential direction, and with opening sections for fluid inlet arranged in the circumferential direction. Fig. Figure 93 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve having opening sections for fluid inflow arranged in the circumferential direction and opening sections for fluid outflow arranged in the axial and circumferential directions respectively. Fig. Figure 94 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve that allows fluid to flow between non-adjacent opening sections, bypassing the sections facing the opening sections. Fig. Figure 95 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve that allows fluid to flow between a plurality of non-adjacent opening sections, bypassing the sections facing the opening sections. Fig. Figure 96 is a view illustrating a section in which no rib is formed in a valve that allows fluid to flow between a plurality of opening sections that are not adjacent to each other, while bypassing the sections opposite the opening sections. Fig. Figure 97 is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a twentieth embodiment. Fig. Figure 98 is a view illustrating a condition prior to the attachment of the sealing element to the housing according to the twentieth embodiment. Fig. Figure 99 is a view illustrating a valve according to a twentieth embodiment. Fig. Figure 100 is an evolving circumferential view of a valve according to a twentieth embodiment. Fig. Figure 101 is a view illustrating fluid passages according to a twentieth embodiment. Fig. Figure 102A is a view illustrating a gap flow path according to a twentieth embodiment. Fig. Figure 102B is a view illustrating a gap flow path according to a twentieth embodiment. Fig. Figure 103 is a front view of a fluid control valve according to a twenty-first embodiment. Fig. 104 is a sectional view along the in Fig. 103 illustrated line CIV-CIV. Fig. Figure 105 is a view to illustrate a section in which no rib is formed in a valve when a gap flow path is formed in the fluid control valve. Fig. Figure 106 is a view to illustrate a section in which no rib is formed in the valve when the gap flow path is formed in the fluid control valve. Description of the embodiments

[0013] The following describes embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, identical or equivalent sections are designated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. If only some of the components are described in the embodiment, the components described in the preceding embodiment may be applied to the other components. In the following embodiments, the embodiments may be partially combined with one another, provided that such combination is not specifically prevented, even if this is not expressly stated. (First embodiment)

[0014] A first embodiment is described with reference to the drawings. The fluid control valve of the present embodiment controls the flow of fluids with different properties that flow through a plurality of fluid passages (not shown). The fluid with different properties is, for example, cooling water at different temperatures.

[0015] The housing 10 contains a cylinder 11, which is cylindrical in shape, and a base 12 that closes one end of the cylinder 11. The housing 10 contains a plurality of ports 13 in a portion of the cylinder 11. The port 13 penetrates an inner wall 16 and an outer wall 14 of the cylinder 11. The spacing H of each port 13 parallel to a direction in which the center of axis CL of the cylinder 11 extends is, for example, 10 mm. Hereinafter, the direction in which the center of axis CL extends is referred to as the “axial direction”.

[0016] The housing 10, for example, is formed from at least one reinforcement of polyamide 66 (hereinafter referred to as "PA66"), one reinforcement of polyphthalamide (hereinafter referred to as "PPA"), and one reinforcement of polyphenylene sulfide (hereinafter referred to as "PPS"). The reinforcement is, for example, glass fiber. Hereinafter, the side of the base 12 in the axial direction of the cylinder 11 is referred to as one side, and the side opposite the base 12 in the axial direction of the cylinder 11 is referred to as the other side.

[0017] The cover 20 closes an opening on the other side of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10. The cover 20 is attached to a locking section 15, which is provided on the outer wall 14 of the cylinder 11 by a snap lock 21. An actuator 30 is attached to the other side of the cover 20 by a screw 31. The actuator 30 contains an electric motor, a speed reduction mechanism, and the like (not illustrated) within a housing 32.

[0018] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 4, the valve 40 is provided to be rotatable within the housing 10 about a predetermined axis center CL. Here, a conical shape is defined which has the same axis as the axis center CL of rotation of the valve 40. Fig. Figure 5 shows only a portion of the axis of the conical shape and a portion of a generating line G, indicated by dashed lines. The axis of the conical shape coincides with the center of the axis CL of valve 40. For the purposes of defining the conical shape, a surface obtained by rotating the generating line G around the axis is called a side surface, a contact point between the generating line G and the axis is called a vertex, and a surface facing the vertex and perpendicular to the axis is called a bottom surface. As in Fig. 4 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 5, the valve 40 includes a side wall 41 formed along the side face of the conical shape. The valve 40 has an end face 42 on one side, formed on the apex (i.e., one side) of the conical shape, and an end face 43 on the other side, opposite the end face 42 on one side and formed on the bottom (i.e., the other side) of the conical shape. An interior angle θ, formed by the generating line G of the conical shape, along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends, and the center of axis CL of the valve 40, is set at 5 degrees or more. The end face 42 on one side and the end face 43 on the other side are perpendicular to the center of axis CL of the valve 40.

[0019] The valve 40 is arranged such that its end face 42 on one side faces the base 12 of the housing 10, and is rotatably mounted in the housing 10 with the axis of its conical shape serving as the axis of rotation CL. The inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 is shaped along one side face similar to a conical shape and is coaxial with the conical shape along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends. That is, the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 and the side wall 41 of the valve 40 are parallel.

[0020] The valve 40 contains a plurality of flow paths 44, which are recessed from the side wall 41 towards the axis center CL. The valve 40 changes its rotation phase, and the plurality of flow paths 44 of the valve 40 each communicate with (or are connected to) the plurality of ports 13 of the housing 10, thereby switching and interrupting the connection or communication between the plurality of ports 13.

[0021] The valve 40 includes an input shaft 45 that projects axially from the position of the end face on the other side 43, which is centered on the axis CL, to the other side. The input shaft 45 is inserted through an insertion hole 22 provided in the cover 20. A bearing 23 and a shaft seal element 24 are provided between the inner wall of the insertion hole 22 and the input shaft 45. The bearing 23 is, for example, a ball bearing, a roller bearing, or the like, and rotatably supports the input shaft 45 with respect to the cover 20. The shaft sealing element 24 is, for example, an O-ring, an oil seal, or the like, and prevents fluid leakage from the gap between the inner wall of the insertion hole 22 and the input shaft 45. A gear 46 is provided at the distal end of the input shaft 45, which protrudes from the cover 20, and torque for rotating the valve 40 is applied by the actuator 30.The torque applied by the actuator 30 to the input shaft 45 to rotate the valve 40 with respect to the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 is set at 2.0 N·m or less.

[0022] Furthermore, the valve 40 includes a projection 47 that extends from the position of the end surface 42 on one side centered on the axis center CL to one side in the axial direction, and a stopper 49 that extends from the position of the end surface 42 on one side that extends away from the axis center CL to one side in the axial direction.

[0023] The projection 47 of the valve 40 is inserted into a hole 17 provided in the base 12 of the housing 10 and is rotatably mounted by the inner wall of the hole 17. If D1 is the outer diameter of the projection 47 of the valve 40, D2 is the inner diameter of the hole 17 of the housing 10, and D3 is the outer diameter of the end face 42 on one side of the valve 40, then the relationships D1 < D3 and D2 < D3 hold. Since D1 is slightly smaller than D2, the relationship D1 < D2 < D3 applies. Thus, by reducing the radius of the sliding section on which the projection 47 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 of the housing 10 slide, i.e., D1 and D2, the sliding resistance of the sliding section can be reduced, and the torque during the rotary operation of the valve 40 can be reduced. The inner wall of the hole 17 is designed parallel to the axis center CL and allows the movement of the projection 47 of the valve 40 in the axial direction.A distal end surface 48 on one side in the axial direction of the projection 47 of the valve 40 and a bottom surface 18 on one side in the axial direction of the hole 17 of the housing 10 do not have contact with each other.

[0024] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 7, the base 12 of the housing 10 is provided with a stop contact section 19, which can be contacted by the stopper 49 of the valve 40. The contact between the stopper 49 of the valve 40 and the stop contact section 19 of the housing 10 defines the standard position of the valve 40 in rotation.

[0025] Valve 40, for example, is formed from at least one reinforcement made of PA66, one reinforcement made of PPA, one reinforcement made of PPS and one reinforcement made of phenol (hereinafter referred to as "PF").

[0026] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 4, the sealing element 50 is provided between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the valve 40. The sealing element 50 is formed in a plate shape; a surface 51 on the housing side 10 is in contact with a section of the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 at the periphery of the port 13, and a surface 52 on the valve side 40 is in sliding contact with a section of the side wall 41 of the valve 40, which is in sliding contact with the sealing element 50. In the following description, the section of the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 at the periphery of the port 13 is referred to as the "port periphery 131," and the section of the side wall 41 of the valve 40 that is in sliding contact with the sealing element 50 is referred to as the "flow path periphery 441." The sealing element 50 contains a plurality of openings 53 that penetrate in the direction of the plate thickness.The majority of openings 53 of the sealing element 50 are provided at positions corresponding to the majority of connections 13 of the housing 10.

[0027] Here, the width of the flow path periphery 441 of the outer wall 14 of the valve 40 is W1, and the width of the connection periphery 131 of the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 is W2. At this point, the relationship W1 ≤ W2 applies. This allows the pressure loss of the fluid flowing from the connection 13 of the housing 10 into the flow path 44 of the valve 40 to be reduced. The width of the section forming the opening 53 in the sealing element 50 is essentially fixed to the same width W2 as the connection periphery 131 of the housing 10.

[0028] The width W1 of the flow path periphery 441 and the width W2 of the connection periphery 131 are both 2 mm or more. As in Fig. 8 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 9, the radius of curvature R of the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 is equal to or greater than the radius of curvature of the surface 52 on the valve side 40 of the sealing element 50 at the same position in the axial direction. The term "equal" essentially implies "same." In other words, the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 is preferably a curved surface or a flat surface with a radius of curvature equal to or greater than that of the conical shape along which the outer wall 14 of the valve 40 extends, and the apex of the curved section with a radius R projecting radially outward is not preferred. Thus, surface contact is achieved between the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50.Therefore, the gap between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 and the gap between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 can be made as small as possible or eliminated to ensure sealing capability with minimal fluid leakage between the flow paths 44. The method of preventing fluid leakage using a tiny gap with a relatively large distance (e.g., about 2 mm or more), as described above, can be referred to as a “gap seal”.

[0029] In the sealing element 50, the material of a section on the housing side 10 differs from the material of a section on the valve side 40. Specifically, the material of the sealing element 50 is at least a combination of rubber and polytetrafluoroethylene (hereinafter referred to as "PTFE"), a combination of rubber and a fluoropolymer resin, and a combination of rubber and a highly lubricating material. More precisely, the material of the sealing element 50 is a rubber material on the housing side 10 and at least one of PTFE, a fluoropolymer resin, and a highly lubricating material on the valve side 40. Methods for manufacturing the sealing element 50 include, for example, applying PTFE or the like to the surface of the rubber material, integrally assembling the rubber material and the PTFE or the like, press-fitting, bonding, and baking.

[0030] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 11, the sealing element 50, when in a state prior to assembly on the housing 10 or in a state removed from the housing 10, has a planar shape or a shape closer to a plane than when mounted on the housing 10. That is, the sealing element 50 is a planar element in the state prior to assembly on the housing 10.

[0031] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 10, the cover-side regulating section 26, which regulates the movement of the sealing element 50, is provided within the cover 20. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 4, the cover-side regulating section 26 projects axially from the surface of the cover 20 on one side to the other. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 10, the cover-side regulating section 26, viewed from one side in the axial direction, has a curved shape parallel to the inner wall 16 of the section of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 on the cover side 20. A section of the sealing element 50, which projects from the valve 40 to the other side in the axial direction, is inserted between the cover-side regulating section 26 and the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10. The cover-side regulating section 26 regulates the movement of the sealing element 50 inwards in the radial direction and to the other side in the axial direction of the cylinder 11. Furthermore, the cover-side regulating section 26 regulates the deformation of the sealing element 50 inwards in the radial direction from a curved surface shape along the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 or the side wall 41 of the valve 40.

[0032] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 7, the housing-side regulating section 70 and a circumferential regulating section 71, which regulate the movement of the sealing element 50, are provided within the housing 10. The housing-side regulating section 70 projects axially from the bottom 12 of the housing 10 to the other side. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 7, the housing-side regulating section 70, viewed from the other side in the axial direction, has a curved shape parallel to the inner wall 16 of the section of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 on the bottom side 12. A section of the sealing element 50, located on the bottom side 12, is fitted between the housing-side regulating section 70 and the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10. The housing-side regulating section 70 regulates the movement of the sealing element 50 inwards in the radial direction and to one side in the axial direction of the cylinder 11. The housing-side regulating section 70 regulates the deformation of the sealing element 50 from a curved surface shape along the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 or the side wall 41 of the valve 40.

[0033] The circumferential regulating section 71 projects radially inwards from the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10. The height of the circumferential regulating section 71, which projects radially inwards from the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10, is less than the thickness of the sealing element 50. The circumferential regulating section 71 is provided on each side of the sealing element 50, which is located inside the housing 10, and regulates the movement of the sealing element 50 to one side and the other in the circumferential direction of the cylinder 11. Thus, as shown in the Fig. 12 and Fig. Figure 13 illustrates that the sealing element 50, in its assembled state, is held on the housing 10 in a curved surface shape along the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10, thereby regulating movement in the axial and circumferential directions. In the following description, the circumferential direction of the cylinder 11 can be referred to as the circumferential direction of the housing 10 or as the circumferential direction of the valve 40, these directions indicating the same direction.

[0034] Fig. Figure 14 schematically illustrates a state in which the planar sealing element 50 is bent when mounted on the housing 10. As indicated by arrows M1 and M2 in Fig. As stated in Figure 14, when the sealing element 50 is bent from a planar state, a section of the sealing element 50 on the valve side 40 contracts, and a section of the sealing element 50 on the housing side 10 expands. Therefore, as shown in Figure 14, the sealing element 50 on the housing side 10 expands. Fig. Figure 15 illustrates that, in the sealing element 50, the length of the surface 51 facing the valve side 40 and the length of the surface 52 facing the housing side 10 are equal or different in the planar state. Here, when the sealing element 50 is in the planar state, a length in the circumferential direction of the valve 40, when the sealing element 50 is mounted on the housing 10 at the surface 51 facing the valve 40, is defined as L IN Furthermore, the sealing element 50 in its planar state has a length in the circumferential direction of the housing 10 when the sealing element 50 is mounted on the housing 10 at the surface 52 facing the housing 10, as defined by L. OUT defined. At this point, the relationship L holds. IN ≤ L OUT .

[0035] Accordingly, if the sealing element 50 is curved and mounted on the housing 10, it is possible to reduce the extent of contraction of the section of the sealing element 50 on the valve side 40 and to reduce the extent of expansion of the section of the sealing element 50 on the housing side 10. Therefore, the product service life of the sealing element 50 can be extended by reducing the internal stress of the sealing element 50.

[0036] If the housing side 10 of the sealing element 50 is made of a rubber material and the valve side 40 is made of a fluoropolymer such as PTFE, a stress concentration can occur at the contact point between the two materials on the outer edge of the sealing element 50 due to the difference in the degree of shrinkage between the rubber material and the fluoropolymer during the cooling of the insert molding process. Insert molding is specifically a vulcanization molding process. In contrast, it is determined by setting L IN ≤ L OUT It is possible to reduce the stress concentration that is generated at the contact section between the two materials at the outer edge of the sealing element 50 during the cooling of the insertion casting (specifically the vulcanization molding).

[0037] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 16, the shapes of the majority of openings 53 in the sealing element 50 can differ in the planar state. For the sake of simplicity, the right side will be described below. Fig. 16 is designated as the right side and the left side as the left.

[0038] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 16, an edge section 531 of the opening 53 on the right side of the center of the sealing element 50 is inclined to the right from the surface 52 on the valve side 40 towards the surface 51 on the housing side. An edge section 531 of the opening 53 on the left side of the center of the sealing element 50 is inclined to the left from the surface 52 on the valve side 40 towards the surface 51 on the housing side. Thus, when the sealing element 50 is bent and mounted on the housing 10, the internal stress of the sealing element 50 can be reduced, thereby extending the product service life of the sealing element 50.

[0039] As a further example of the sealing element 50, as shown in Fig. Figure 17 illustrates that an edge section 531 of the opening 53 of the sealing element 50 is formed perpendicular to the surface 52 on the valve side 40 and the surface 51 on the housing side 10 of the planar sealing element 50. This can simplify the configuration and the like of the shape during the manufacture of the sealing element 50 and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0040] Another example of the sealing element 50 can be seen in Fig. Figure 18 illustrates that the outer edge of the sealing element 50 is formed perpendicular to the surface 52 on the valve side 40 and the surface 51 on the housing side 10 of the planar sealing element 50. That is, L IN = L OUTcan be specified. This can simplify the configuration and the like of the mold during the manufacture of the sealing element 50 and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0041] As again in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 4, the spring 60, which serves as a preload element, is located between the end face 43 on the other side of the valve 40 and the cover 20. The spring 60 is a compression coil spring and preloads the valve 40 in the direction of the apex of the conical shape. As described above, the internal angle θ formed by the generating line G of the conical shape, along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends, and the axis center CL of the valve 40 is set to 5 degrees or more. This generates a force component that acts on the sealing element 50 and the housing 10 from the side wall 41 of the valve 40 in response to the load exerted by the spring 60 in the axial direction of the valve 40. Thus, part of the preload force of the spring 60 acts as a component for pressing the valve 40 and the sealing element 50, and furthermore acts as a component for pressing the sealing element 50 and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10.Therefore, by adjusting the spring force of spring 60, it is possible to maintain a condition in which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 are in sliding contact with each other with low sliding resistance, and a condition in which the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 are in contact with each other both during rotation and when the valve 40 is stationary. In other words, the spring force of spring 60 is adjusted so that the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 are brought into sliding contact with each other with low sliding resistance, and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 are brought into contact with each other. Furthermore, the spring force of spring 60 is adjusted so that gouging or abrasion of the sealing element 50 by the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 is prevented or reduced.This allows the gap seal described above to be achieved between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50, as well as between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50, and the torque during the rotary operation of the valve 40 can be reduced. Furthermore, since the axial length of the spring 60 is kept constant during the rotation of the valve 40, the preload force of the spring 60 is also kept constant. Therefore, the torque fluctuation during the rotary operation of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0042] A spring guide 61 is provided between the end surface 43 on the other side of the valve 40 and the spring 60. The spring guide 61 supports the end section of the spring 60 on the valve side 40. The spring guide 61 has an L-shaped cross-section parallel to the center of the axis CL and includes an inner surface in radial direction in sliding contact with the projecting section 29, which forms the insertion hole 22 of the cover 20, and a surface on one side in axial direction in sliding contact with the end surface 43 on the other side of the valve 40. The spring guide 61 prevents axial displacement of the spring 60 and transmits the preload force of the spring 60 to the valve 40.Although not illustrated, a projecting section extending axially to the other side may be provided on the end face 43 of the valve 40 on the other side, and the projecting section and the radially inner surface of the spring guide 61 may be in sliding contact with each other.

[0043] The material of the spring guide 61 differs from the material of the valve 40. Specifically, the material of the spring guide 61 is at least one of metal alone, a material with PTFE applied to a metal surface, a material with a fluorinated resin applied to a metal surface, a material with a highly lubricating material applied to a metal surface, resin alone, a material with PTFE applied to a resin surface, a material with a fluorinated resin applied to a resin surface, and a material with a highly lubricating material applied to a resin surface.

[0044] In each of the fluid control valve configurations described above, the valve 40, the sealing element 50, and the cover 20 are configured to be axially removable from the housing 10 from the opposite side. Therefore, the following steps can be used as a method for manufacturing the fluid control valve. First, the planar sealing element 50, in a state as a component relative to the housing 10, is deformed into a curved state and mounted on the housing-side regulating section 70 and the circumferential regulating section 71. Next, the valve 40 is axially mounted to the housing 10 from the opposite side. At this point, the projection 47 of the valve 40 is inserted into the hole 17 of the housing 10.Next, the spring 60 and the spring guide 61 are positioned, and the cover 20 is mounted on the housing 10 in such a way that the center of the axis CL is aligned so that the gear 46 of the input shaft 45 of the valve 40 and the shaft sealing element 24 of the cover 20 do not come into contact with each other. At this point, a section of the sealing element 50, which projects axially from the valve 40 to the other side, is fitted between the cover-side regulating section 26 and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10. Finally, the actuator 30 is mounted to the cover 20 by means of the screw 31, and the assembly of the fluid control valve is complete.

[0045] The fluid control valve of the first embodiment, described above, exerts the following effects. (1) The fluid control valve of the first embodiment includes, within the cover 20 that closes the opening of the housing 10, the cover-side regulating section 26, which regulates the movement of the sealing element 50 radially inward and axially to the other side along the cylinder 11. Accordingly, when the cover 20 is mounted on the housing 10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, the cover-side regulating section 26 can prevent the sealing element 50 from shifting position. Even after the cover 20 is mounted on the housing 10, the cover-side regulating section 26 can prevent the sealing element 50 from shifting position.Thus, it is possible to maintain a condition in which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 are in sliding contact with each other with low sliding resistance, and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 are in contact with each other, thereby ensuring the sealing capability to prevent fluid leakage between the flow paths 44 in the housing 10.

[0046] Since the cover-side regulating section 26 also prevents the sealing element 50 from moving inwards in the radial direction of the cylinder 11, an increase in sliding resistance between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 during the rotation of the valve 40 can be prevented, and the torque during the rotation of the valve 40 can be reduced. Therefore, the fluid control valve can reduce the size of the actuator 30 that drives the valve 40 and also reduce the operating noise, power consumption, and electrical noise during the rotation of the valve 40.

[0047] (2) The cover-side regulating section 26 can regulate the deformation of the sealing element 50 from a curved surface shape along the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 and the side wall 41 of the valve 40.

[0048] Accordingly, even when a planar sealing element is used as a component in a state as sealing element 50, the sealing element 50 is held in a curved surface shape by the cover-side regulating section 26. Therefore, an increase in sliding resistance between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 during the rotary operation of the valve 40 can be prevented, and the torque during the rotary operation of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0049] (3) In the fluid control valve of the first embodiment, the base 12 of the housing 10 is provided with the housing-side regulating section 70, which regulates the movement of the sealing element 50 radially inwards and axially to one side along the cylinder 11. The housing-side regulating section 70 can regulate the deformation of the sealing element 50 from a curved surface shape along the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 or the side wall 41 of the valve 40.

[0050] Accordingly, when the sealing element 50 is mounted on the housing 10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, the housing-side regulating section 70 prevents the sealing element 50 from shifting its position. Even after the sealing element 50 is mounted on the housing 10, the housing-side regulating section 70 can prevent its shifting position. This makes it possible to maintain a condition in which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 are in sliding contact with each other with low sliding resistance, and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 are in contact with each other, thus ensuring a seal to prevent fluid leakage between the flow paths 44.

[0051] Even when a planar element is used as a component in a sealing element 50, the sealing element 50 is prevented from moving inwards in the radial direction of the cylinder 11 by the housing-side regulating section 70, and the sealing element 50 is held in a curved surface shape. Therefore, an increase in sliding resistance between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 during the rotary operation of the valve 40 can be prevented, and the torque during the rotary operation of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0052] (4) The fluid control valve of the first embodiment includes within the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 the circumferential regulating section 71, which regulates the movement of the sealing element 50 to one side and to the other side in the circumferential direction of the cylinder 11.

[0053] Accordingly, when the sealing element 50 is mounted on the housing 10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, the circumferential displacement of the sealing element 50 can be prevented by the housing-side regulating section 70. Even after the sealing element 50 is mounted on the housing 10, circumferential displacement of the sealing element 50 can be prevented by the housing-side regulating section 70. Thus, it is possible to maintain a condition in which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 are in sliding contact with each other, with low sliding resistance, and the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 are in contact with each other, thereby ensuring a seal to prevent fluid leakage between the flow paths 44.

[0054] (5) In the first embodiment, a material of a section of the sealing element 50 on the housing side 10 differs from a material of a section on the valve side 40.

[0055] Accordingly, it is possible to select a material suitable for the section on the housing side 10 and the section on the valve side 40 as the sealing element 50.

[0056] (6) Specifically, the material of the sealing element 50 on the housing side 10 is a rubber material and on the valve side 40 is at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin and a material with high lubricity.

[0057] Accordingly, at least one of the following materials is used for the sealing element 50: a rubber material, silicone, PTFE, a fluoropolymer, and an elastic resin. Thus, the sealing element 50 can be deformed by the spring force of the spring 60 to conform to the shape of the inner wall 16 of the housing 10. This improves the ease of assembly of the sealing element 50, and the gap between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50, as well as the gap between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50, can be minimized or eliminated to ensure a tight seal with minimal fluid leakage between the flow paths 44.

[0058] Furthermore, by using at least one of the materials PTFE, fluoropolymer and a material with high lubricity as the material of the sealing element 50 on the valve side 40, it is possible to ensure the sealing capability with minimal fluid leakage between the flow paths 44 and to reduce the sliding resistance between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50.

[0059] (7) In the first embodiment, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 is formed along the side surface of the conical shape, and the valve 40 is biased by the spring 60 towards the apex of the conical shape. This can facilitate the adjustment of the contact force between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 and the contact force between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50. Therefore, the gap between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 and the gap between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 can be minimized or eliminated to ensure sealing capability with minimal fluid leakage between the flow paths 44. Since this prevents or reduces hollowing or abrasion of the sealing element 50 by the valve 40, the torque during rotary operation of the valve 40 can be reduced, and the torque can be prevented from becoming rippled.This allows the fluid control valve to ensure sealing capability both during rotation and when the valve 40 is stationary, and to reduce operating noise, power consumption, and electrical noise during rotation. Furthermore, the size of the actuator 30, which drives the fluid 40, can be reduced in the fluid control valve, thus preventing breakage or damage to the actuator 30 and improving reliability.

[0060] Furthermore, in the fluid control valve, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 is formed along the side surface of the conical shape, and the valve 40 is biased towards the apex of the conical shape by the spring 60. Thus, the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 are kept in sliding contact with each other even when wear occurs on the sliding surface between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 due to aging or similar causes. Therefore, the fluid control valve can maintain the sealing capacity between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 against aging wear.

[0061] (8) In the first embodiment, the valve 40, the sealing element 50 and the cover 20 are configured so that they can be removed from the housing 10 from the other side in an axial direction.

[0062] Accordingly, if, contrary to the configuration of the first embodiment, the input shaft 45 is provided on one side of the end face 42 of the valve 40, the insertion hole 22 and the shaft sealing element 24 are provided in the base 12 of the housing 10. In this case, when mounting the valve 40 to the housing 10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, the valve must be carefully mounted so that the input shaft 45 and the shaft sealing element 24 do not come into contact with each other and the shaft sealing element 24 is not damaged, which is difficult. Specifically, it is necessary to mount the valve 40 to the housing 10 while the center of rotation CL of the housing 10 and the center of rotation CL of the valve 40 remain aligned throughout the entire mounting stroke.

[0063] In contrast, in the present embodiment, the input shaft 45 is provided at the end face 43 on the other side of the valve 40, and the cover 20 contains the insertion hole 22 and the shaft sealing element 24. Therefore, when mounting the valve 40 to the housing 10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, the risk of contact between the input shaft 45 and the shaft sealing element 24 is reduced, thus facilitating assembly.

[0064] (9) In the first embodiment, when the sealing element 50 is in a state away from the housing 10, it has a planar shape or a shape more like a plane than when it is mounted with the housing 10.

[0065] Accordingly, the processability deteriorates if a curved sealing element 50 is to be produced due to large variations in the stamping direction during forming, leading to an increase in the manufacturing costs of the sealing element 50. In contrast, in the fluid control valve of the first embodiment, the planar sealing element 50 can be used as a component by deforming it into a curved state during assembly on the housing 10. This allows for improved processability during the manufacture of the sealing element 50.

[0066] (10) In the first embodiment, the sealing element 50 has the relationship L IN ≤ L OUT .

[0067] Accordingly, if the sealing element 50 is curved and mounted on the housing 10, it is possible to reduce the amount of contraction of the section of the sealing element 50 on the valve side 40 and to reduce the amount of expansion of the section of the sealing element 50 on the housing side 10. Therefore, the product service life of the sealing element 50 can be extended by reducing the internal stress of the sealing element 50.

[0068] If the housing side 10 of the sealing element 50 is made of a rubber material and the valve side 40 is made of a fluoropolymer such as PTFE, a stress concentration can occur at the contact point between the two materials on the outer edge of the sealing element 50 due to the difference in shrinkage of the rubber material and the fluoropolymer during cooling in the case molding process. Case molding is specifically a vulcanization molding process. In contrast, it is by setting L IN≤ L OUT It is possible to reduce the stress concentration that is generated at the contact point between the two materials at the outer edge of the sealing element 50 during the cooling of the insertion casting (specifically the vulcanization molding).

[0069] (11) In the first embodiment, the internal angle θ formed by the generating G of the conical shape along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends and the axis center CL of the valve 40 is 5 degrees or more.

[0070] Accordingly, it is possible to obtain a target component force capable of maintaining the sliding contact state between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50, and the contact state between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing element 50, in response to the load exerted by the spring 60 in the axial direction of the valve 40. Therefore, the gap between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50, and the gap between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50, can be minimized or eliminated to ensure sealing capability with minimal fluid leakage between the flow paths 44.If, on the other hand, the internal angle θ formed by the generating G of the conical shape along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends and the axis center CL of the valve 40 is less than 5 degrees, no target component force can be achieved, making it difficult to ensure the sealing capability.

[0071] The upper limit of the internal angle θ, which is formed by the generating G of the conical shape along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends, and the axis center CL of the valve 40, is determined in a suitable manner according to the volume in the flow path 44 of the valve 40, the radial size of the housing 10 and the like.

[0072] (12) In the first embodiment, the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10 has a shape along a side surface of a conical shape which is similar to and coaxial with the conical shape along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends.

[0073] Accordingly, a component force acting on the sealing element 50 and the housing 10 from the side wall 41 of the valve 40 is generated in response to the load exerted by the spring 60 in the axial direction of the valve 40. This component force allows the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 to be held in contact, thus ensuring a tight seal.

[0074] (13) In the first embodiment, the material of the housing 10 consists at least of a reinforcement of PA66, a reinforcement of PPA or a reinforcement of PPS.

[0075] This allows both the dimensional accuracy and the strength of the housing 10 to be achieved.

[0076] (14) In the first embodiment, the material of the valve 40 is at least one of a reinforcement made of PA66, a reinforcement made of PPA, a reinforcement made of PPS and a reinforcement made of PF.

[0077] This makes it possible to reduce the sliding resistance between the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50, while ensuring the dimensional accuracy and strength of the valve 40.

[0078] (15) In the first embodiment, the cover 20 is attached to the housing 10 by means of the snap lock 21.

[0079] This reduces the number of parts required to assemble and attach the cover 20 to the housing 10.

[0080] (16) In the first embodiment, the valve 40 includes the stopper 49, which projects axially from the end face 42 on one side at a position away from the center of the axis CL. The housing 10 includes the stopper contact section 19, which receives the stopper 49 of the valve 40.

[0081] Accordingly, by providing the stopper 49 on the end surface 42 of the valve 40 on one side and not on the side wall 41, the sealing surface can be reliably ensured.

[0082] (17) In the first embodiment, the stopper contact section 19 is provided on the bottom 12 of the housing 10 and not on the cover 20.

[0083] Accordingly, by providing the stopper contact section 19 in the housing 10 and not on the cover 20, it is possible to reduce the load factor on the fastening section between the housing 10 and the cover 20, for example the snap lock 21. (Second embodiment)

[0084] A second embodiment is described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the method for attaching the actuator 30, the cover 20 and the housing 10, while the other parts are identical to those of the first embodiment, and therefore only the part that differs from the first embodiment is described.

[0085] As in the Fig. As illustrated in Figures 19 to 21, in the second embodiment, the actuator 30 and the cover 20 are fastened to the housing 10 by the same screw 31. A sheet metal screw, for example, is used as the screw 31. The housing 10 includes a housing-side screw receptacle 130 for fastening the screw 31 at a position radially outside the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11. The cover 20 includes a cover-side screw receptacle 25 at a position that axially overlaps the housing-side screw receptacle 130. The actuator 30 also includes an actuator-side screw receptacle 33 at a position that axially overlaps the housing-side screw receptacle 130 and the cover-side screw receptacle 25. The housing 32 and the actuator-side screw receptacle 33 of the actuator 30 are connected by an arm 34.In such a configuration, the housing-side screw receptacle 130, the cover-side screw receptacle 25 and the actuator-side screw receptacle 33 overlap in the axial direction and are connected and fixed to each other by the screw 31.

[0086] The fluid control valve of the second embodiment described above has the following effects.

[0087] In the second embodiment, the actuator 30, the cover 20 and the housing 10 are fastened by the same screw 31.

[0088] Accordingly, the number of parts required to mount and attach the actuator 30 and the cover 20 to the housing 10 can be reduced. (Third embodiment)

[0089] The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment and the like in the shape of the flow path 44 of the valve 40, while the other parts are identical to those of the first embodiment and the like, so that only the part that differs from the first embodiment and the like is described.

[0090] As in the Fig. 22 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 23, in the third embodiment a deep section 440 on the side of the axis center CL of each of the plurality of flow paths 44 contained in the valve 40 is formed along a side surface of a conical shape similar to and coaxial with the conical shape along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends. Fig. 22 is a portion of the generating line G of the conical shape along which the side wall 41 of the valve 40 extends, indicated by a dash-dot line, and a generating line Gs of the conical shape along which the deep section 440 extends on the center-of-axis CL side of each of the multiple flow paths 44 is indicated by a dashed line. Thus, the deep sections 440 of the majority of flow paths 44 of the valve 40 and the side wall 41 of the valve 40 are parallel. Therefore, for each of the axially arranged flow paths 44, a distance D6 between the deep section 440 on the center-of-axis CL side of the flow path 44 and the side wall 41 is uniform.

[0091] The fluid control valve of the third embodiment described above exerts the following effects.

[0092] In the third embodiment, it is possible to reduce a phenomenon characteristic of a conical valve, namely, the reduction of the depth and width of the flow path 44 when the outer diameter of the valve 40 is reduced laterally in the axial direction of the valve 40. That is, for the majority of flow paths 44 contained within the valve 40, the distance D6 between the deep section 440 on the side of the axis CL of the flow path 44 and the side wall 41 can be made uniform. Therefore, the pressure drop of the fluid flowing through each of the multiple flow paths 44 can be made uniform, and water permeability can be ensured. (Fourth embodiment)

[0093] The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment and the like in the form of the cover-side regulatory section 26, while the others are similar to those of the first embodiment and the like, and therefore only the part that differs from the first embodiment and the like is described.

[0094] As in the Fig. 24 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 25, the cover-side regulating section 26 in the fourth embodiment comprises a parallel section 27 and an inclined section 28. The parallel section 27 is a section that is formed parallel to the inner wall 16 of the cylinder 11 of the housing 10. The inclined section 28 is a section that is continuous on one side in the axial direction of the parallel section 27 and is inclined inwards in the radial direction on the other side in the axial direction. The inclined section 28 can guide the sealing element 50 between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the parallel section 27 when the cover 20 is mounted on the housing 10.

[0095] The fluid control valve of the fourth embodiment described above exerts the following effects.

[0096] In the fourth embodiment, the cover-side regulating section 26 includes an inclined section 28 which is inclined inwards in the radial direction from the other side to one side in the axial direction of the cylinder 11.

[0097] Accordingly, the inclined section 28 of the cover-side regulating section 26 is effective when the cover 20 is mounted to the housing 10 after the sealing element 50 and the valve 40 have been inserted into the housing 10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve. At this point, the inclined section 28 of the cover-side regulating section 26 guides the sealing element 50 between the inner wall 16 of the housing 10 and the parallel section 27. Therefore, the cover 20 can be easily mounted. (Fifth embodiment)

[0098] A fifth embodiment is described. The fifth embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments and the like in the method for attaching the actuator 30, the cover 20, and the housing 10, whereas otherwise it is the same as the first and second embodiments and the like. Therefore, only the part that differs from the first and second embodiments and the like is described in the fifth embodiment.

[0099] As in the Fig. 26 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 27, in the fifth embodiment the actuator 30 and the cover 20 are attached to the housing 10 by the same screw 31 as in the second embodiment. That is, the housing-side screw receiving section 130, the cover-side screw receiving section 25 and the actuator-side screw receiving section 33 overlap in the axial direction and are connected and fixed to one another by the screws 31.

[0100] Here, in the fifth embodiment, the snap-fit ​​connection for attaching the cover 20 and the housing 10, as described in the first and second embodiments, and the like, are eliminated. As described above, if the actuator 30 and the cover 20 are attached to the housing 10 by the same screw 31, no snap-fit ​​connection for attaching the cover 20 and the housing 10 can be present.

[0101] The fluid control valve of the fifth embodiment described above can simplify the attachment of the actuator 30, the cover 20 and the housing 10. (Sixth embodiment)

[0102] The configuration of the fluid control valve of the sixth embodiment is the same as the configuration of the fluid control valve of the first embodiment, which is described with reference to the Fig. Sections 1 to 18 have already been described, and therefore their descriptions are omitted. The fluid control valve of the sixth embodiment has the following effects.

[0103] (1) In the sixth embodiment, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 is formed along the side surface of the conical shape, and the valve 40 is biased towards the apex of the conical shape by the spring 60. Thus, by adjusting the spring force of the spring 60, it is possible to facilitate the adjustment of the pressing force between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 and the pressing force between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50. Therefore, the gap between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 and the gap between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 can be made as small as possible or eliminated to ensure sealing capability with minimal fluid leakage between the flow paths 44. Since thus a hollowing orBy preventing or reducing abrasion of the sealing element 50 by the valve 40 as in the configuration of the fluid control valve according to the aforementioned patent literature 1, the torque during the rotary drive of the valve 40 can be reduced, and the torque can be prevented from being wave-like. As a result, the fluid control valve of the sixth embodiment can reduce the size of the actuator 30 that drives the valve 40, as well as reduce the operating noise, power consumption, and electrical noise during the rotation of the valve 40, while ensuring sealing capability both during rotation and when the valve 40 is stopped. Furthermore, breakage of the actuator 30 gear can be prevented, and reliability can be improved.

[0104] Furthermore, the fluid control valve of the sixth embodiment is configured such that the side wall 41 of the valve 40 is formed along the side surface of the conical shape and the valve 40 is preloaded by the spring 60. Thus, the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 are kept in sliding contact with each other even when wear occurs on the sliding surface between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 due to aging or similar causes. Therefore, the fluid control valve can maintain the sealing capability between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 against aging wear.

[0105] (2) In the sixth embodiment, a material of a section of the sealing element 50 on the housing side 10 differs from a material of a section on the valve side 40.

[0106] Accordingly, the material of the sealing element 50 can be selected as a material suitable for contact with the housing 10 and sliding contact with the valve 40.

[0107] (3) Specifically, the material of the sealing element 50 on the housing side 10 is a rubber material and on the valve side 40 is PTFE, a fluoropolymer or a material with high lubricity.

[0108] Accordingly, at least one of the following materials is used for the sealing element 50: a rubber material, silicone, PTFE, a fluoropolymer, and an elastic resin. Thus, the sealing element 50 can be deformed by the spring force of the spring 60 to conform to the shape of the inner wall 16 of the housing 10. This simplifies the assembly of the sealing element 50, and the gap between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50, as well as the gap between the housing 10 and the sealing element 50, can be kept as small as possible or eliminated to ensure a tight seal with minimal fluid leakage between the flow paths 44.

[0109] Furthermore, by using at least one of the materials PTFE, fluoropolymer and a material with high lubricity as the material of the sealing element 50 on the valve side 40, it is possible to ensure the sealing capability with minimal fluid leakage between the flow paths 44 and to reduce the sliding resistance between the valve 40 and the sealing element 50.

[0110] (4) In the sixth embodiment, the fluid control valve includes the spring guide 61, which is provided between the valve 40 and the spring 60.

[0111] This prevents the edge of the spring 60 from sticking on the surface of the valve 40, and it prevents the sliding resistance between the spring 60 and the valve 40 from increasing due to the edge of the spring 60 scratching the surface of the valve 40. Therefore, the torque during the rotary operation of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0112] (5) In the sixth embodiment, the material of the spring guide 61 differs from the material of the valve 40.

[0113] Accordingly, it is possible to select a material that can reduce the sliding resistance between the spring guide 61 and the valve 40.

[0114] (6) In the sixth embodiment, the material of the spring guide 61 comprises at least a material with PTFE applied to a metal surface, a material with a fluorinated resin applied to a metal surface, a material with a high lubricity applied to a metal surface, a material with PTFE applied to a resin surface, a material with a fluorinated resin applied to a resin surface, and a material with a high lubricity applied to a resin surface.

[0115] This reduces the sliding resistance between the spring guide 61 and the valve 40.

[0116] The material of the spring guide 61 is not limited to the examples mentioned above and can be either metal or resin.

[0117] (7) In the sixth embodiment, the valve 40 includes the projection 47, which projects axially from the position of the end face 42 on one side centered on the axis CL. The housing 10 includes the hole 17, which rotatably supports the projection 47 of the valve 40.

[0118] Accordingly, the hole 17 of the housing 10 rotatably supports the projection 47 of the valve 40, thereby preventing displacement of the axis center CL of the valve 40. Therefore, the contact pressure between the valve 40 and the seal can be stabilized, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 can be kept in sliding contact with each other with low sliding resistance, and the sealing capability can be ensured both during rotation and when the valve 40 is stationary.

[0119] (8) In the sixth embodiment, the outer diameter D1 of the projection 47 of the valve 40 and the inner diameter D2 of the hole 17 of the housing 10 are smaller than the outer diameter D3 of the end face 42 on one side of the valve 40.

[0120] Accordingly, by reducing the radius of the sliding section between the projection 47 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 of the housing 10, the sliding resistance of the sliding section can be reduced, and the torque during the rotary drive of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0121] (9) In the sixth embodiment, the distal end surface 48 on one side in the axial direction of the projection 47 of the valve 40 and the bottom surface 18 on one side in the axial direction of the hole 17 of the housing 10 do not have contact with each other.

[0122] Accordingly, it is possible to eliminate sliding at the points of sliding of the hole 17 of the housing 10 and the projection 47 of the valve 40, which are not related to the function of preventing the positional displacement of the axis center CL of the valve 40, and to reduce the torque during the rotary drive of the valve 40.

[0123] (10) In the sixth embodiment, both the width W1 of the flow path periphery 441 of the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the width W2 of the connection periphery 131 of the housing 10 are 2 mm or more.

[0124] Accordingly, in the configuration in which the connection periphery 131 of the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 are brought into surface contact with each other, it is possible to reduce the amount of fluid leakage between the connections 13 to an even lower level and to improve the sealing capability by increasing the width W2 of the connection periphery 131 and increasing the width of the surface contact area.

[0125] Similarly, in the configuration where the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 are brought into surface contact with each other, it is possible to reduce the amount of fluid leakage between the flow paths 44 to an even lower level and to improve the sealing capability by increasing the width W1 of the flow path periphery 441 and increasing the width of the surface contact area.

[0126] Additionally, increasing the width of the surface contact between the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 prevents or reduces the hollowing or abrasion of the sealing element 50 by the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40. Therefore, the torque during the rotary actuation of the valve 40 can be reduced, and the torque can be prevented from being wave-like. Consequently, the load on the actuator 30, which drives the valve 40, can be reduced.

[0127] (11) In the sixth embodiment, the width W1 of the flow path periphery 441 of the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the width W2 of the connection periphery 131 of the housing 10 have the ratio W2 ≥ W1.

[0128] Accordingly, by making the width W1 of the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 equal to or smaller than the width W2 of the connection periphery 131 of the housing 10, the pressure loss of the fluid flowing from the connection 13 of the housing 10 into the flow path 44 of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0129] (12) In the sixth embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 is equal to or greater than the radius of curvature of the surface 52 on the valve side 40 of the sealing element 50 at the same position in the axial direction.

[0130] Accordingly, in the configuration where the gap between the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 can be made as small as possible or eliminated to ensure sealing capability, surface contact between the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 is achieved. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the amount of fluid leakage between the flow paths 44 to an even lower level in the housing 10 and to improve the sealing capability.

[0131] Additionally, by increasing the radius of curvature R of the flow path periphery 441, the hollowing or abrasion of the sealing element 50 by the flow path periphery 441 of the valve 40 can be prevented or reduced. Therefore, the torque during the rotary actuation of the valve 40 can be reduced, and the torque can be prevented from being wave-like. Consequently, the load on the actuator 30, which drives the valve 40, can be reduced.

[0132] (13) In the sixth embodiment, the torque required to rotate the valve 40 with respect to the housing 10 and the sealing element 50 is 2.0 N·m or less.

[0133] Accordingly, the size of the actuator 30, which drives the valve 40, can be reduced, thereby achieving a reduction in operating noise, power consumption and electrical noise during the rotation of the valve 40.

[0134] (14) In the sixth embodiment, the valve 40, the sealing element 50 and the cover 20 are configured so that they can be removed from the housing 10 from the other side in an axial direction.

[0135] Accordingly, contrary to the configuration of the sixth embodiment, if the input shaft 45 is provided on one side of the end face 42 of the valve 40, the insertion hole 22, through which the input shaft 45 is inserted, and the shaft sealing element 24 are provided in the base 12 of the housing 10. In this case, when assembling the valve 40 onto the housing 10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, care must be taken to ensure that the gear 46 of the input shaft 45 and the shaft sealing element 24 do not come into contact with each other and that the shaft sealing element 24 is not damaged, which is difficult. Specifically, it is necessary to assemble the valve 40 onto the housing 10 while the center of rotation CL of the housing 10 and the center of rotation CL of the valve 40 remain aligned throughout the entire assembly stroke.

[0136] In contrast, in the sixth embodiment, the input shaft 45 is provided at the end face 43 on the other side of the valve 40, and the cover 20 contains the insertion hole 22 and the shaft sealing element 24. Therefore, when assembling the valve 40 on the housing 10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve, the risk of contact between the input shaft 45 and the shaft sealing element 24 is reduced, thus facilitating assembly. (Seventh to twelfth embodiments)

[0137] The seventh to twelfth embodiments differ from the sixth embodiment in the configuration of the sliding section between the end surface on one side 42 of the valve 40 and the bottom 12 of the housing 10, while the others are the same as those of the sixth embodiment, and therefore only the part that differs from the sixth embodiment is described. (Seventh embodiment)

[0138] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 28, the fluid control valve of the seventh embodiment includes a bearing 171 between the projection 47, which extends from the end face 42 on one side of the valve 40, and the hole 17, which is provided in the base 12 of the housing 10. The bearing 171 is, for example, a plain bearing, is attached to the inside of the hole 17 of the housing 10, and slides on the projection 47 of the valve 40. The bearing 171 and the housing 10 are formed in one piece by insert molding or two-material injection molding. Alternatively, the bearing 171 can be subsequently mounted to the inside of the hole 17 of the housing 10 by outsert molding, press fit, or the like.

[0139] The material used for bearing 171 can be a different material than that used for valve 40 or housing 10, for example, metal. Alternatively, if the same type of material is used for bearing 171 as for valve 40 or housing 10, at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin, and a highly lubricating material can be added. Alternatively, bearing 171 can be a material in which at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin, and a highly lubricating material is applied to a metal or resin surface.

[0140] The fluid control valve of the seventh embodiment described above has the following effects.

[0141] (1) The fluid control valve of the seventh embodiment includes the bearing 171, which is provided between the projection 47 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 of the housing 10.

[0142] Accordingly, the sliding resistance between the projection 47 of the valve 40 and the hole 17 of the housing 10 can be further reduced.

[0143] (2) In the seventh embodiment, the material of the valve 40 or the housing 10 differs from the material of the bearing 171.

[0144] Accordingly, any material different from that of the valve 40 or the housing 10 can be selected as the material of the bearing 171.

[0145] (3) In the seventh embodiment, where the material of the bearing 171 is the same as the material of the valve 40 or the housing 10, at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin and a material with high lubricity is added.

[0146] Accordingly, the sliding resistance between the bearing 171 and the projection 47 of the valve 40 can be further reduced. The bearing 171 is specifically a plain bearing.

[0147] (4) In the seventh embodiment, the bearing 171 can be a material in which at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin and a material with high lubricity is applied to a metal surface or a resin surface.

[0148] This also further reduces the sliding resistance between the bearing 171 and the projection 47 of the valve 40. The bearing 171 is specifically a plain bearing. (Eighth embodiment)

[0149] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 29, the fluid control valve of the eighth embodiment also includes a bearing 471 between the projection 47, which extends from the end face 42 on one side of the valve 40, and the hole 17, which is provided in the base 12 of the housing 10. The bearing 471 is, for example, a plain bearing, is attached to the outside of the projection 47 of the valve 40, and slides on the inner wall of the hole 17 of the housing 10. The bearing 471 and the valve 40 are formed in one piece by insert molding or two-material injection molding. Alternatively, the bearing 471 can be subsequently attached to the outside of the projection 47 of the valve 40 by outsert molding, press fit, or the like.

[0150] The same material as in the seventh embodiment can be used for bearing 471.

[0151] The fluid control valve of the eighth embodiment described above can also exert the same effects as that of the seventh embodiment. (Ninth embodiment)

[0152] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 30, the fluid control valve of the ninth embodiment includes a shaft 410 which is injected into a valve body 400.

[0153] A section of shaft 410 projecting from the end face 42 of valve 40 on one side forms the projection 47 of valve 40. The projection 47 of valve 40 is rotatably mounted through the hole 17 of housing 10. A section of shaft 410 projecting from the end face 43 of valve 40 on the other side forms the input shaft 45.

[0154] The fluid control valve of the ninth embodiment described above exerts the following effects.

[0155] In the ninth embodiment, the projection 47 of the valve 40 is formed by the shaft 410 inserted into the valve body 400.

[0156] This allows the dimensional accuracy of the projection 47 in the valve 40 to be improved and the amount of the positional displacement of the axis center CL of the valve 40 to be further reduced. (Tenth embodiment)

[0157] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 31, the fluid control valve of the tenth embodiment does not include the projection 47 extending from the end face 42 on one side of the valve 40, and the hole 17 provided in the base 12 of the housing 10, as described in the sixth to ninth embodiments. Instead, the housing 10 of the fluid control valve of the tenth embodiment includes a projecting section 110 extending axially to the opposite side at a position on the base 12 centered on the axis CL. The valve 40 includes a hole-shaped section 420 that is recessed axially to the opposite side at a position on the end face 42 centered on the axis CL.

[0158] The projecting section 110 of the housing 10 is inserted into the perforated section 420, which is provided on the end face 42 on one side of the valve 40, and is rotatably mounted by the inner wall of the perforated section 420. If the outer diameter of the projecting section 110 of the housing 10 is D4, the inner diameter of the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 is D5, and the outer diameter of the end face 42 on one side of the valve 40 is D3, then the relationships D4 < D3 and D5 < D3 apply. Since D4 is slightly smaller than D5, the relationship D4 < D5 < D3 applies. Thus, by reducing the radius of the sliding section on which the protruding section 110 of the housing 10 and the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 slide, i.e. D4 and D5, the sliding resistance of the sliding section can be reduced and the torque during the rotary drive of the valve 40 can be reduced.The inner wall of the perforated section 420 is parallel to the axis center CL and allows the relative movement of the projecting section 110 in the axial direction. A distal end surface 111 on the other side in the axial direction of the projecting section 110 of the housing 10 and a bottom surface 421 on the other side in the axial direction of the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 do not contact each other.

[0159] The fluid control valve of the tenth embodiment described above has the following effects.

[0160] (1) In the tenth embodiment, the valve 40 includes a hole section 420 which is recessed axially at a position of the end face 42 on one side centered on the axis CL. The housing 10 includes the projecting section 110 which rotatably supports the hole section 420 of the valve 40.

[0161] Accordingly, the projecting section 110 of the housing 10 rotatably supports the perforated section 420 of the valve 40, thereby preventing displacement of the axis center CL of the valve 40. Therefore, the contact pressure between the valve 40 and the seal can be stabilized, the side wall 41 of the valve 40 and the sealing element 50 can be kept in sliding contact with each other with low sliding resistance, and the sealing capability can be ensured both during rotation and when the valve 40 is stationary.

[0162] (2) In the tenth embodiment, the inner diameter D5 of the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 and the outer diameter D4 of the projecting section 110 of the housing 10 are smaller than the outer diameter D3 of the end face 42 on one side of the valve 40.

[0163] Accordingly, by reducing the radius of the sliding section between the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 and the projecting section 110 of the housing 10, the sliding resistance of the sliding section can be reduced and the torque during the rotary drive of the valve 40 can be reduced.

[0164] (3) In the tenth embodiment, the bottom surface 421 on the other side in the axial direction of the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 and the distal end surface 111 on the other side in the axial direction of the projecting section 110 of the housing 10 do not make contact with each other.

[0165] According to this, it is possible to eliminate sliding at the locations of the hole section 420 of the valve 40 and the protruding section 110 of the housing 10, which are not related to the function of preventing the positional displacement of the axis center CL of the valve 40, and to reduce the torque during the rotary drive of the valve 40. (Eleventh embodiment)

[0166] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 32, the fluid control valve of the eleventh embodiment includes a bearing 422 between the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 and the projecting section 110 of the housing 10. The bearing 422 is, for example, a plain bearing, is attached to the inside of the perforated section 420 of the valve 40, and slides on the projecting section 110 of the housing 10. The bearing 422 and the valve 40 are formed in one piece by insert molding or two-material injection molding. Alternatively, the bearing 422 can be subsequently installed in the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 by outsert molding, press fit, or the like.

[0167] As described in the seventh embodiment, the material used for the bearing 422 can be a different material than that used for the valve 40 or the housing 10, for example, metal. Alternatively, if the same type of material is used for the bearing 422 as for the valve 40 or the housing 10, at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin, and a material with high lubricity can be added.

[0168] Alternatively, bearing 422 can be a material in which at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin and a material with high lubricity is applied to a metal surface or a resin surface.

[0169] The fluid control valve of the eleventh embodiment described above exerts the following effects.

[0170] (1) The fluid control valve of the eleventh embodiment includes the bearing 422, which is provided between the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 and the projecting section 110 of the housing 10.

[0171] This allows the sliding resistance between the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 and the protruding section 110 of the housing 10 to be further reduced.

[0172] (2) In the eleventh embodiment, the material of the valve 40 or the housing 10 differs from the material of the bearing 422.

[0173] Accordingly, any material different from that of the valve 40 or the housing 10 can be selected as the material of the bearing 422.

[0174] (3) In the eleventh embodiment, where the material of the bearing 422 is the same as the material of the valve 40 or the housing 10, at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin and a material with high lubricity is added.

[0175] Accordingly, the sliding resistance between the bearing 422 and the projecting section 110 of the housing 10 can be further reduced. The bearing 422 is specifically a plain bearing.

[0176] (4) In the eleventh embodiment, the bearing 422 can be a material in which at least one of PTFE, a fluorinated resin and a material with high lubricity is applied to a metal surface or a resin surface.

[0177] This also further reduces the sliding resistance between the bearing 422 and the projecting section 110 of the housing 10. The bearing 422 is specifically a plain bearing. (Twelfth embodiment)

[0178] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 33, the fluid control valve of the twelfth embodiment also includes a bearing 112 between the perforated section 420 of the valve 40 and the projecting section 110 of the housing 10. The bearing 112 is, for example, a plain bearing, is attached to the outside of the projecting section 110 of the housing 10, and slides on the inner wall of the perforated section 420 of the valve 40. The bearing 112 and the housing 10 are formed in one piece by insert molding or two-material injection molding. Alternatively, the bearing 112 can be subsequently attached to the outside of the projecting section 110 of the housing 10 by outsert molding, press fit, or the like.

[0179] The same material as in the seventh and eleventh embodiments can be used for bearing 112.

[0180] The fluid control valve of the twelfth embodiment described above can also exert the same effects as that of the eleventh embodiment. (Thirteenth embodiment)

[0181] The tenth embodiment differs from the sixth embodiment and the like in the method for installing the spring guide 61, while the others are the same as those in the sixth embodiment and the like, and therefore only the part that differs from the sixth embodiment and the like is described.

[0182] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 34, in the thirteenth embodiment a projecting section 460, which projects axially to the other side, is provided on the end face 43 of the valve 40 on the other side. The projecting section 460 is provided radially within the spring guide 61.

[0183] The spring guide 61 has an L-shaped cross-section parallel to the axis center CL and includes an inner surface in the radial direction that is in sliding contact with the projecting section 460, which is provided on the other end surface 43 of the valve 40, and a surface on one side in the axial direction that is in sliding contact with the other end surface 43 of the valve 40. Even with such a configuration, the spring guide 61 can prevent the axial displacement of the spring 60 and transmit the preload force of the spring 60 to the valve 40.

[0184] The fluid control valve of the thirteenth embodiment can also exert the same effects as those of the sixth to twelfth embodiments. (Fourteenth embodiment)

[0185] The present embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. 35 to 50. A fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment is, for example, a valve device used in a fluid circulation system in which fluid (in this example, coolant) circulates to adjust the temperatures of a vehicle interior and a battery of an electric or hybrid vehicle. The fluid circulation system is a system that circulates coolant to a power source for vehicle operation, a radiator, a heater core for vehicle interior climate control, a battery, and the like. For example, a long-life coolant (LLC) containing ethylene glycol is used as the coolant. The fluid control valve M1 performs a switching of the fluid flow path in the fluid circulation system, an adjustment of the flow rate, or the like.

[0186] First, the fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment is described. As in the Fig. As illustrated in Figures 35 to 39, the fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment comprises a housing M10, a housing cover M20, an actuator M30, a valve M60, a sealing element M70, a preloading element M80, and the like. The fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment is configured as a valve device that rotates the flow path of the cooling water flowing through the fluid circulation system through the actuator M30 about an axis center CL, which will be described later.

[0187] The fluid control valve M1 is configured to switch its operating mode, thereby changing the flow path of the fluid in the fluid circulation system. The operating mode of the fluid control valve M1 is switched by the actuator unit M30. Details of the operating mode are described later.

[0188] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 38, the housing M10 forms the outer shell of the fluid control valve M1 and creates a valve receiving chamber AS that accommodates the valve M60 within the outer shell. The housing M10 is a non-rotating element. Specifically, the housing M10 includes a cylinder M11, which is formed in a cylindrical shape with a base, a base M12, which forms a cylindrical base section, and a port-forming section M13, which allows fluid to flow into and out of the valve receiving chamber AS. The cylinder M11, the base M12, and the port-forming section M13 are formed, for example, by injection molding, in which a plastic material is poured into a mold and solidified in a desired shape. Specifically, the housing M10 is formed, for example, from a PA66 reinforcement, a PPA reinforcement, and a PPS reinforcement.The reinforcement, for example, is an element formed by combining PA66, PPA, or PPS with a glass fiber or the like. In . Fig. The M30 drive unit is omitted in version 38.

[0189] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 38, the valve M60 and the sealing element M70 are housed in the valve receiving chamber AS, which forms the interior of the housing M10. The opening side of the cylinder M11 in the housing M10 is closed by the housing cover M20.

[0190] The following will be described as in Fig. Figure 35 and the like illustrate various configurations and the like, where a direction along the axis center CL is defined as axis center direction DRa, a direction on one side in the axis center direction DRa is defined as first axis center direction DRa1, and a direction opposite to the first axis center direction DRa1 is defined as second axis center direction DRa2. In the present embodiment, the opening side of the cylinder M11 is defined as first axis center direction DRa1, and the bottom side M12 of the housing M10 is defined as second axis center direction DRa2.

[0191] Furthermore, various configurations and the like are described, whereby a direction orthogonal to the axis center direction DRa and extending radially from the axis center CL is defined as the radial direction DRr, and a direction around the axis center CL, centered on the axis center CL, is defined as the circumferential direction DRc. The circumferential direction DRc is the direction in which the valve M60 rotates due to the drive force supplied by the actuator M30. In the circumferential direction DRc, one side is defined as the first circumferential direction DRc1 and the other side as the second circumferential direction DRc2. The in Fig. The directions illustrated in Figure 35 and similar figures are examples and do not restrict the installation state of the fluid control valve M1 of the present disclosure.

[0192] Cylinder M11 is a section that surrounds most of the valve section M60 and is cylindrical in shape. Cylinder M11 is designed such that its central axis is coaxial with the axis center CL. Cylinder M11 is essentially conical, with its outer and inner diameters decreasing from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2. That is, cylinder M11 is essentially conical, with the apex on the side of the second axis center direction DRa2 and the bottom on the side of the first axis center direction DRa1. In other words, in the cross-section of cylinder M11, the distance from the axis center CL to the outer shell decreases orthogonally to the axis center CL from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2.However, the end section of cylinder M11 is flat, with the end section on the side of the first axis center direction DRa1 not being the tip. In the present embodiment, cylinder M11 functions as a housing outer wall section that forms the valve receiving chamber AS.

[0193] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 35 and the like, a claw section M111 is provided for attaching the housing cover M20 to the first axis-center direction DRa1 side of the cylinder M11. The base M12 is connected to the cylinder M11 on the second axis-center direction DRa2 side.

[0194] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 40, a circumferential sealing regulating section M112 is provided within the cylinder M11, which regulates the circumferential movement of the sealing element M70 DRc. The circumferential sealing regulating section M112 regulates the circumferential movement of the sealing element M70 DRc with the rotation of the valve M60 when the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc. The circumferential sealing regulating section M112 is formed at each of the positions corresponding to the end section of the sealing element M70 on the first circumferential DRc1 side and the end section on the second circumferential DRc2 side in a section where the sealing element M70 is arranged on the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11. The circumferential sealing regulating section M112 is designed to project towards the axis center CL.

[0195] The cylinder M11 is designed with a plurality of opening sections M40 through which the fluid flows into the valve receiving chamber AS, as in the Fig. Figures 39 to 41 illustrate the fluid flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS and the fluid flowing out of the housing M10, as shown in Figures 39 to 41. Fig. 38 illustrates. Specifics are, as in Fig. Figures 39 to 41 illustrate eight opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 formed in the cylinder M11. These eight opening sections are formed in a section of the cylinder M11 in which the connecting section M13 is provided. The eight opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 are formed through the cylinder M11 in the radial direction DRr. That is, the eight opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 are formed by cutting out the cylinder M11.

[0196] In the following, the eight opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, M48 can be referred to as eight opening sections M41 to M48. Fig. Figure 41 is a view to explain the eight opening sections M41 to M48 and is a view that schematically illustrates a section of the housing M10 in which the eight opening sections M41 to M48 are formed when the housing M10 is viewed from a direction along the radial direction DRr.

[0197] As in the Fig. As illustrated in Figures 39 to 41, the eight opening sections M41 to M48 are formed in a grid pattern, with four opening sections arranged in the axial direction DRa and the opening sections arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. The eight opening sections M41 to M48 have shapes corresponding to the substantially conical cylinder M11, with the outer and inner diameters decreasing from the first axial direction DRa1 to the second axial direction DRa2. Specifically, as shown in the Fig. 39 and Fig. Figure 40 illustrates that each of the eight opening sections M41 to M48 has an opening shape that is essentially trapezoidal, and the size in the circumferential direction DRc on the side of the second axis center direction DRa2 is smaller than that on the side of the first axis center direction DRa1. The opening area (i.e., the cross-sectional area orthogonal to the radial direction DRr) of each of the eight opening sections M41 to M48 decreases from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2.

[0198] The cylinder M11 contains a partition M50 that separates the eight opening sections M41 to M48. Specifically, the partition M50 contains three circumferential partitions M51 that separate the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the axial direction DRa, and one axial side partition M52 that separates the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0199] The partition wall M50 contains an outer circumferential partition wall M53, which surrounds the eight opening sections M41 to M48 and is connected to three circumferential partition walls M51 and an axial side partition wall M52.

[0200] The three circumferential partitions M51 extend in the circumferential direction DRc. These three circumferential partitions M51 separate four opening sections M41, M42, M43, and M44, which are arranged in one column on the first circumferential side DRc1, within the eight opening sections M41 to M48 arranged in two columns in the axial direction DRa. The three circumferential partitions M51 also separate four opening sections M45, M46, M47, and M48, which are arranged in the other column on the second circumferential side DRc2, within the axial direction DRa, within the axial direction DRa.

[0201] An axial partition M52 extends in the axis center direction DRa. Among the eight opening sections M41 to M48 arranged in two rows, an axial partition M52 separates the opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44 in one row and the opening sections M45, M46, M47, M48 in the other row in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0202] The outer circumferential partition M53 is an outer circumferential section that surrounds the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The outer circumferential partition M53 surrounds the eight opening sections M41 to M48 on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, the second axial center direction DRa2 side, the first axial center direction DRa1 side, and the second axial center direction DRa2 side.

[0203] In the present embodiment, four of the eight opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 allow the fluid to flow into the valve receiving chamber AS. Four of the eight opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, and M48 allow the fluid to flow out of the housing M10. Hereinafter, the opening sections M42, M44, M45, and M47 for fluid flow into the valve receiving chamber AS are referred to as the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the third fluid inlet M45, and the fourth fluid inlet M47. The four opening sections M41, M43, M46, M48, through which the fluid exits the housing M10, are referred to as first fluid outlet M41, second fluid outlet M43, third fluid outlet M46 and fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0204] The first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the third fluid inlet M45, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 are inlet ports that allow the fluid to flow into the valve receiving chamber AS in the housing M10. The first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 are outlet ports that allow the fluid flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS in the housing M10 to flow out of the valve receiving chamber AS.

[0205] In the present embodiment, the first fluid outlet M41, the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44 are arranged on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, from the first axial center direction DRa1 to the second axial center direction DRa2. The third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 are arranged on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, from the first axial center direction DRa1 to the second axial center direction DRa2.

[0206] This means that the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41 are adjacent to each other in the axis-center direction DRa. The second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43 are adjacent to each other in the axis-center direction DRa. The third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46 are adjacent to each other in the axis-center direction DRa. The fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 are adjacent to each other in the axis-center direction DRa.

[0207] The first fluid inlet M42 and the third fluid outlet M46 are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc. The second fluid inlet M44 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc. The third fluid inlet M45 and the first fluid outlet M41 are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc. The fourth fluid inlet M47 and the second fluid outlet M43 are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0208] The connection forming section M13 is provided in a position opposite the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the third fluid inlet M45, the fourth fluid inlet M47, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0209] In the following, a group of opening sections containing the first fluid outlet M41, the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44 can be referred to as opening sections of the first column. Furthermore, a group of opening sections containing the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 can be referred to as opening sections of the second column. Additionally, a group of opening sections containing the third fluid inlet M45 and the first fluid outlet M41 can be referred to as opening sections of the first row. A group of opening sections containing the first fluid inlet M42 and the third fluid outlet M46 can be referred to as opening sections of the second row.A group of opening sections containing the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the second fluid outlet M43 can be referred to as the third-row opening section. A group of opening sections containing the second fluid inlet M44 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 can be referred to as the fourth-row opening section.

[0210] The arrangement of the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the third fluid inlet M45, the fourth fluid inlet M47, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 is not limited to this example and can be modified accordingly. Hereinafter, the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the third fluid inlet M45, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 may be referred to as first fluid inlet M42 through fourth fluid inlet M47. The first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 may be referred to as first fluid outlet M41 through fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0211] The base M12 closes off part of the valve receiving chamber AS and carries a rotating shaft M62 of the valve M60, which will be described later. The base M12 is formed by planar extension along the radial direction DRr and the circumferential direction DRc. As in Fig. 38 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 40, the base M12 contains a support hole M121 into which the second axis center direction DRa2 side of the rotary shaft M62 of the valve M60 is fitted. The support hole M121 rotatably supports the rotary shaft M62.

[0212] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 40, the base M12 is provided with two rotary control sections M122 that regulate the rotation of the valve M60. The rotary control section M122 is positioned so that it can come into contact with a stopper M63 of the valve M60, which will be described later. When the valve M60 rotates in the direction of the first circumferential direction DRc1, the stopper M63 of the valve M60 comes into contact with one rotary control section M122, thereby reducing the rotation of the valve M60 in the first circumferential direction DRc1. When the valve M60 rotates in the direction of the second circumferential direction DRc2, the stopper M63 of the valve M60 comes into contact with the other rotary control section M122, thereby reducing the rotation of the valve M60 in the direction of the second circumferential direction DRc2. Thus, the rotational position of the valve M60 is set to its initial position.

[0213] Furthermore, the base M12 is provided with a radially oriented sealing regulating section M123, which regulates the movement of the sealing element M70 in the circumferential direction DRc and the radial direction DRr. When the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, the radially oriented sealing regulating section M123 regulates the movement of the sealing element M70 in the circumferential direction DRc with the rotation of the valve M60 and regulates the inward movement in the radial direction DRr. The radially oriented sealing regulating section M123 is formed in a groove that extends along the circumferential direction DRc from one circumferential sealing regulating section M112 to the other circumferential sealing regulating section M112 at the end section of the cylinder M11 in the radial direction DRr.

[0214] The connection-forming section M13 is a section that allows fluid to flow into the valve receiving chamber AS and allows the fluid flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS to flow to the outside of the housing M10. The connection-forming section M13 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and its axis center direction DRa is longitudinal. The connection-forming section M13 is formed with flow holes M131, which are connected from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 and from the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48. The flow hole M131 extends radially through the connection-forming section M13 in the DRr direction.

[0215] The housing cover M20 closes the valve receiving chamber AS by sealing the opening side of the cylinder M11 in the housing M10 and supports the rotary shaft M62 of the valve M60. As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 38, the housing cover M20 includes a bearing section M21 and a cover seal M23. The bearing section M21 supports the first axis-center direction DRa1 side of the rotary shaft M62 of the valve M60. The cover seal M23 has an annular shape and seals a gap between the rotary shaft M62 and a shaft hole M22 into which the rotary shaft M62 is inserted in the housing cover M20. Furthermore, the housing cover M20 is provided with an actuator seal M24, which seals a gap between a section of the housing cover M20 into which the actuator M30 is inserted and the actuator M30 itself.

[0216] The bearing section M21, for example, contains a ball bearing or a roller bearing and rotatably supports the rotating shaft M62. The cover seal M23 contains, for example, an O-ring made of an elastically deformable rubber element. The cover seal M23 ensures a seal between the housing cover M20 and the rotating shaft M62. The drive unit seal M24 contains, for example, an O-ring made of an elastically deformable rubber element. The drive unit seal M24 ensures a seal between the housing cover M20 and the drive unit M30.

[0217] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figures 35 to 37, the housing cover M20 includes an engagement receptacle M25 into which the claw section M111, provided in the cylinder M11, is fitted on the first axis center direction DRa1 side. The housing cover M20 is attached to the cylinder M11 by fitting the claw section M111 into the engagement receptacle M25. In other words, the housing cover M20 is attached to the cylinder M11 by a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0218] The housing cover M20 contains a cover screw receptacle section M26, into which the screw element S is inserted on the second axis center direction DRa2 side.

[0219] The drive unit M30 is located on the first axis center direction DRa1 side of the housing cover M20. The drive unit M30 is attached to the housing cover M20 by a screw element S, which is inserted into the cover screw receptacle M26 of the housing cover M20.

[0220] The drive unit M30 is an actuator for outputting a torque to rotate the valve M60. The drive unit M30 includes a motor (not shown) that serves as the drive source for rotating the valve M60, and a speed reduction mechanism (not shown) that transfers the motor's output to the valve M60's rotating shaft M62. The motor could be, for example, a servo motor, a stepper motor, or a brushless motor. The speed reduction mechanism could be, for example, a gear mechanism containing a helical gear or a spur gear. Although not shown, the motor rotates according to a control signal from a control unit that is electrically connected to the motor.

[0221] The control unit can use a computer containing memory (a non-volatile physical storage medium), a processor, and similar components. The control unit is, for example, a control device that executes a computer program stored in memory and performs various control processes in accordance with the computer program. The control unit executes the computer program stored in memory and transmits a control signal to the fluid control valve M1 to change the rotary position of valve M60. The operating mode of the fluid control valve M1 is switched based on the control signal transmitted by the control unit.

[0222] The M60 valve is a valve element that switches the flow of fluid to each of the first fluid inlets M42 up to the fourth fluid inlets M47 and from the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlets M48 by rotating around the center axis CL using the rotational force output by the actuator M30. As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 38, the valve M60 is arranged in the valve receiving chamber AS and is rotatably positioned so that it is not in contact with the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11. That is, the valve M60 is arranged such that a predetermined gap is formed between the valve M60 and the cylinder M11. The valve M60 is designed such that its central axis is coaxial with the axis center CL and also coaxial with the central axis of the cylinder M11.

[0223] The M60 valve is essentially conical, with the outer diameter decreasing from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2. That is, the M60 valve is essentially conical, with the apex located on the side of the second axis center direction DRa2 and the base on the side of the first axis center direction DRa1. In other words, in the cross-section of the M60 valve, the distance from the axis center CL to the outer shell decreases orthogonally to the axis center CL from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2. However, the M60 valve is flat, with the end section on the side of the first axis center direction DRa1 not being the apex.

[0224] As in the Fig. 38 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 42, the valve M60 comprises a valve outer wall section M61, which forms an substantially conical outer shell, the rotating shaft M62, and the stopper M63. The valve outer wall section M61, the rotating shaft M62, and the stopper M63 are formed as a single piece. For example, the valve outer wall section M61, the rotating shaft M62, and the stopper M63 are formed by forming a reinforcement of PA66, a reinforcement of PPA, a reinforcement of PPS, and a reinforcement of phenol (hereinafter referred to as "PF").

[0225] Here, a conical shape is defined that has the same axis as the M62 rotary shaft of the M60 valve. As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 38, the valve M60 has an outer wall section M61 formed along the side surface of the defined conical shape. The outer wall section M61 faces the cylinder M11 in the radial direction DRr and includes an outer circumferential surface M611 that faces the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11. Here, as in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 42, the internal angle θ formed by the generating line of the conical shape parallel to the valve outer wall section M61 and the rotating shaft M62 (i.e., axis center CL) is set to 5 degrees or more. In other words, the internal angle θ formed by the generating line along the outer circumferential surface M611 and the axis center CL is set to 5 degrees or more. In the present embodiment, the internal angle θ is set to 7 degrees. The internal angle θ can be set to an angle less than 7 degrees, as long as the internal angle θ is 5 degrees or more, or it can be set to an angle greater than 7 degrees.

[0226] The valve outer wall section M61 has a conical shape along the cylinder M11. That is, sections of the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 that are opposite each other are essentially parallel, and the radial distance DRr between the outer circumferential surface M611 and the inner circumferential surface M16 is essentially constant. This means that the inner circumferential surface M16, which forms the valve receiving chamber AS in the cylinder M11, is shaped along the side face of the conical form similarly to the valve outer wall section M61. In other words, the cylinder M11 has a conical shape along the valve outer wall section M61.

[0227] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 42, a plurality of fluid passages M64 are formed in the valve outer wall section M61, corresponding to the eight opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, M48, wherein four opening sections are arranged in the axial center direction DRa and the opening sections are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. Specifically, as shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 44, the valve outer wall section M61 is designed with ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, M64j through which the fluid flows.

[0228] Furthermore, the valve outer wall section M61 is designed with a plurality of closing sections M65 that prevent the fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS. Specifically, six closing sections M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f are formed in the valve outer wall section M61. The ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j, and the six closing sections M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f are each designed such that they face one of the eight openings M41 to M48 when the valve M60 rotates. Additionally, the valve outer wall section M61 is formed with a rib M66 that separates the ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, M64j and the six closure sections M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, M65f from each other.

[0229] The ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j control the flow of fluid to and from the fluid control valve M1 by rotating valve M60, which switches the opening section to which each fluid passage faces among the eight opening sections M41 to M48. Additionally, the six closing sections M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f prevent the flow of fluid to and from the opposite opening section by rotating valve M60, which switches the opening section opposite each closing section among the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The rib M66 is designed to surround the ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, M64j and the six closure sections M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, M65f.

[0230] In the following, the ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j can be referred to as the ten fluid passages M64a to M64j. The ten fluid passages M64a, M64b, M64c, M64d, M64e, M64f, M64g, M64h, M64i, and M64j are designated as the first fluid passage M64a, second fluid passage M64b, third fluid passage M64c, fourth fluid passage M64d, fifth fluid passage M64e, sixth fluid passage M64f, seventh fluid passage M64g, eighth fluid passage M64h, ninth fluid passage M64i, and tenth fluid passage M64j. The first fluid passage M64a, the second fluid passage M64b, the third fluid passage M64c, the fourth fluid passage M64d, the fifth fluid passage M64e, the sixth fluid passage M64f, the seventh fluid passage M64g, the eighth fluid passage M64h, the ninth fluid passage M64i and the tenth fluid passage M64j can be designated as first fluid passage M64a to tenth fluid passage M64j.

[0231] The six closure sections M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f can be designated as six closure sections M65a to M65f. The six closure sections M65a, M65b, M65c, M65d, M65e, and M65f are designated as first closure section M65a, second closure section M65b, third closure section M65c, fourth closure section M65d, fifth closure section M65e, and sixth closure section M65f. The first closure section M65a, the second closure section M65b, the third closure section M65c, the fourth closure section M65d, the fifth closure section M65e, and the sixth closure section M65f can be designated as first closure section M65a to sixth closure section M65f. Additionally, the side of the M60 valve facing the eight openings M41 to M48 is defined as the front, and the side facing the front is defined as the back.In the valve M60, each of the first fluid passages M64a up to the tenth fluid passages M64j and each of the first closure sections M65a up to the sixth closure sections M65f, which are positioned on the front, are oriented towards the first fluid inlet M42 up to the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the first fluid outlet M41 up to the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0232] The ten fluid passages M64a to M64j are recessed in the valve outer wall section M61 along at least one of the axial directions DRa or the circumferential direction DRc towards the axial center CL. Among the ten fluid passages M64a to M64j, the passages formed along the valve outer wall section M61 and having the same position in the axial direction DRa are formed at positions that overlap in the circumferential direction DRc. The ten fluid passages M64a to M64j are designed such that they have essentially the same size in the radial direction DRr. In other words, the ten recessed fluid passages M64a to M64j are designed such that they have essentially the same size in the depth direction.

[0233] The ten fluid passages M64a to M64j have shapes that combine a plurality of essentially trapezoidal forms corresponding to the eight opening sections M41 to M48, which have opening shapes in a grid pattern. That is, the opening shape of each of the first fluid passages M64a to the tenth fluid passages M64j is a combination of a plurality of trapezoidal shapes, where the circumferential size DRc on the second axis center direction (DRa2 side) is smaller than on the first axis center direction (DRa1 side). The first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j are designed in a size that can span two or more of the eight opening sections M41 to M48 when the fluid passages are positioned by rotating the valve M60 to positions opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48.

[0234] The first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j are configured such that at least one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 and at least one of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48 are interconnected. Thus, each of the first fluid passages M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j can direct the fluid flowing from any connected fluid inlet of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any connected fluid outlet of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0235] The first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are designed to prevent fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS from the opposite inlet when the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f is opposite a fluid inlet from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47. Specifically, the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f have opening shapes corresponding to the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 and are designed to be recessed towards the center of the axis CL. That is, the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are essentially trapezoidally recessed.

[0236] When facing one of the first fluid outlets M41 up to the fourth fluid outlets M48, each of the first closure sections M65a up to the sixth closure sections M65f is designed to prevent the outflow of fluid from the facing outlet. Specifically, the first closure section M65a up to the sixth closure section M65f have opening shapes corresponding to the first fluid outlet M41 up to the fourth fluid outlet M48 and are designed to be recessed towards the center of the axis CL. That is, the first closure section M65a up to the sixth closure section M65f are essentially trapezoidally recessed.

[0237] The rib M66 separates the first fluid passage M64a from the tenth fluid passage M64j and the first closure section M65a from the sixth closure section M65f. The rib M66 includes an axial rib M66a extending in the axial direction DRa and a circumferential rib M66b extending in the circumferential direction DRc. The axial rib M66a is configured to face the axial partition M52 when the valve M60 rotates. The circumferential rib M66b is configured to face the circumferential partition M51 when the valve M60 rotates. The first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j and the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b.For example, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which surround the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f, are formed at positions opposite the axial partition M52 and the circumferential partition M51, which surround any one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlets M47.

[0238] In the present embodiment, the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j and the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are adjacent to each other. The rib M66, which separates the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j and the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f, which are adjacent to each other, is designed such that the axially facing rib M66a and the circumferentially facing rib M66b, which separate the adjacent sections, are continuous and integral.

[0239] Specific shapes and forming positions of the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j and of the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are described with reference to the Fig. 44 and Fig. 45 described. Each M60 valve in the Fig. 44 and Fig. Figure 45 illustrates the front of valve M60 when the valve M60 is rotated circumferentially DRc so that the corresponding fluid passages and closure sections facing the eight openings M41 to M48 are visible. In the Fig. 44 and Fig. Figure 45 schematically shows the grid mass sections in which the ten fluid passages M64a to M64j and the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are formed when the valve M60 is developed in the circumferential direction DRc into a grid pattern, and the grid shows the rib M66. In the grid, a solid line indicates a section in which the rib M66 is formed. A dashed line indicates a section in which the rib M66 is not formed.

[0240] As in the Fig. 44 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 45, the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j and the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f extend along the entire axial direction DRa of the valve outer wall section M61 and along the entire circumferential direction DRc. The first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j and the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are formed in any column if the fluid passage M is subdivided into a plurality of columns in the circumferential direction DRc, and in any row if the fluid passage M is subdivided into a plurality of rows in the axial direction DRa.

[0241] The first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j are formed as ten cells in the valve outer wall section M61, if the fluid passage in each column is a single-cell flow path section. That is, the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j are formed in one or more of ten columns if the valve outer wall section M61 is divided into ten columns in the circumferential direction DRc. The valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc such that the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j, which face the eight opening sections M41 to M48 arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc, change with respect to each column.

[0242] Here, each area of ​​the valve outer wall section M61, obtained by dividing the valve outer wall section M61 into four parts in the axial direction DRa and into ten parts in the circumferential direction DRc, is defined as a section. One section corresponds to each of the eight opening sections M41 to M48, and in the Fig. 44 and Fig. 45 is the size of each section, illustrated in the same form for clarity.

[0243] The sections obtained when the valve outer wall section M61 is divided into four parts in the axial direction DRa are defined as the first row section, second row section, third row section, and fourth row section from the first axial direction DRa1 side to the second axial direction DRa2 side. The sections obtained when the valve outer wall section M61 is divided into ten parts in the circumferential direction DRc are defined from the first axial direction DRa1 to the second axial direction DRa2 as a section of the first column, a section of the second column, a section of the third column, a section of the fourth column, a section of the fifth column, a section of the sixth column, a section of the seventh column, a section of the eighth column, a section of the ninth column, and a section of the tenth column.The column corresponds to the cell described above.

[0244] The first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j, when defined in this way, have shapes formed by combining a plurality of sections, each positioned in one of the first to fourth rows and one of the first to tenth columns. The first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j are each formed at positions that may face one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 and may face one of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48. The first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f correspond to a section positioned in any one of the first to fourth rows and any one of the first to tenth columns.The first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are each formed in a position that can be opposite any of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlets M47 or any of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlets M48. The shapes and positions of the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j and the first closure section M65a to the sixth closure section M65f are described below using sections.

[0245] The first fluid passage M64a has a shape formed by combining the section in the first row and first column with the section in the second row and first column. In the first fluid passage M64a, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side and the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The first fluid passage M64a has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between the section in the first row and the section in the second row and first column.

[0246] The first fluid passage M64a, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, with the first fluid passage M64a positioned opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The first fluid passage M64a can be opposite the opening section of the first row and the opening section of the second row. The first fluid passage M64a allows the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other. The first fluid passage M64a allows the third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.

[0247] In this case, under the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are located next to each other, the first fluid inlet M42 corresponds to a first adjacent inlet and the first fluid outlet M41 to a first adjacent outlet. Under the third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are arranged next to each other, the third fluid inlet M45 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet and the third fluid outlet M46 to the first adjacent outlet.

[0248] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the first fluid passage M64a at a location where the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the first fluid passage M64a, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41.

[0249] The second fluid passage M64b has a shape formed by combining the section in the third row and first column with the section in the fourth row and first column. In the second fluid passage M64b, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side from the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side from the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The second fluid passage M64b has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between the section in the third row and first column and the section in the fourth row and first column.

[0250] The second fluid passage M64b, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, thereby positioning the second fluid passage M64b opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The second fluid passage M64b can be opposite the opening section of the third row and the opening section of the fourth row. The second fluid passage M64b allows the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other. The second fluid passage M64b allows the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.

[0251] In this case, under the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are arranged side by side, the second fluid inlet M44 corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the second fluid outlet M43 to the first adjacent outlet. Under the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are arranged side by side, the fourth fluid inlet M47 corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the fourth fluid outlet M48 to the first adjacent outlet.

[0252] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the second fluid passage M64b at a location where the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the second fluid passage M64b, face the partition M50, which separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0253] The third fluid passage M64c has a shape formed by combining the sections in the first row and the second to sixth columns with the section in the second row and second column. In the third fluid passage M64c, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side and the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The third fluid passage M64c has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between the section in the first row and the second row and the section in the second row and second column, and the axial rib M66a is not formed between any of the sections in the first row and the second to sixth columns.

[0254] The third fluid passage M64c, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axial direction DRa and can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The third fluid passage M64c can span three adjacent opening sections either in the axial direction DRa or in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, thereby positioning the third fluid passage M64c opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The third fluid passage M64c can be opposite the opening section of the first row and the opening section of the second row. The third fluid passage M64c allows the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent in the axial direction DRa, to be connected to each other.The third fluid passage M64c allows the third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are adjacent in the axial direction DRa, to be connected to each other. Furthermore, the third fluid passage M64c allows the third fluid inlet M45 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other. The third fluid passage M64c allows the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, and the third fluid inlet M45, which are adjacent either in the axial direction DRa or in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0255] In this case, under the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent to each other, the first fluid inlet M42 corresponds to a first adjacent inlet and the first fluid outlet M41 to a first adjacent outlet. Under the third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are adjacent to each other, the third fluid inlet M45 corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the third fluid outlet M46 to the first adjacent outlet. Furthermore, under the third fluid inlet M45 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent to each other, the third fluid inlet M45 corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the first fluid outlet M41 to the first adjacent outlet.

[0256] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the third fluid passage M64c at a location where the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the third fluid passage M64c, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, and the third fluid inlet M45 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41.

[0257] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc, with the third fluid passage M64c positioned at a location where the third fluid inlet M45 and the first fluid outlet M41 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite the axial partition M52, which separates the third fluid inlet M45 and the first fluid outlet M41.

[0258] The fourth fluid passage M64d has a shape formed by combining the section in the third row and second column with the section in the fourth row and second column. In the fourth fluid passage M64d, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side and the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The fourth fluid passage M64d has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between the section in the third row and second column and the section in the fourth row and second column.

[0259] The fourth fluid passage M64d, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, thereby positioning the fourth fluid passage M64d opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The fourth fluid passage M64d can be opposite the opening section of the third row and the opening section of the fourth row. The fourth fluid passage M64d allows the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other. The fourth fluid passage M64d allows the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.

[0260] In this case, under the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are arranged side by side, the second fluid inlet M44 corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the second fluid outlet M43 to the first adjacent outlet. Under the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are arranged side by side, the fourth fluid inlet M47 corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the fourth fluid outlet M48 to the first adjacent outlet.

[0261] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the fourth fluid passage M64d at a location where the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the fourth fluid passage M64d, face the partition M50, which separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0262] The fifth fluid passage M64e has a shape formed by combining the sections in the second to fourth rows and the third column. In the fifth fluid passage M64e, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side from the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side from the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The fifth fluid passage M64e has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between each of the sections in the second to fourth rows and the third column.

[0263] The fifth fluid passage M64e, configured in this way, can span three opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, positioning the fifth fluid passage M64e opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The fifth fluid passage M64e can be opposite the opening section of the second row up to the opening section of the fourth row. The fifth fluid passage M64e allows the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be interconnected. The fifth fluid passage M64e also allows the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be interconnected.

[0264] In this case, under the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43, which are arranged side by side, the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 correspond to a third adjacent inlet, and the second fluid outlet M43 corresponds to the third adjacent outlet. Under the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are arranged side by side, the third fluid inlet M45 corresponds to a second adjacent inlet, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 correspond to second adjacent outlets.

[0265] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc, positioning the fifth fluid passage M64e at a location where the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43 are interconnected. The axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the fifth fluid passage M64e, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not located in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0266] The sixth fluid passage M64f has a shape formed by combining the section in the second row and fourth column with the section in the third row and fourth column. In the sixth fluid passage M64f, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side and the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The sixth fluid passage M64f has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between the section in the second row and fourth row and the section in the third row and fourth column.

[0267] The sixth fluid passage M64f, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, thus positioning the sixth fluid passage M64f opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The sixth fluid passage M64f can be opposite the opening section of the second row and the opening section of the third row. The sixth fluid passage M64f allows the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected. The sixth fluid passage M64f allows the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected.

[0268] In this case, under the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are located next to each other, the first fluid inlet M42 corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the second fluid outlet M43 to the first adjacent outlet. Under the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the third fluid outlet M46, which are arranged next to each other, the fourth fluid inlet M47 corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the third fluid outlet M46 to the first adjacent outlet.

[0269] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the sixth fluid passage M64f at a location where the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the sixth fluid passage M64f, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0270] The seventh fluid passage M64g has a shape formed by combining the section in the third row and fifth column, the section in the fourth row and fifth column, and the section in the third row and sixth column. In the seventh fluid passage M64g, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side and the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The seventh fluid passage M64g has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between the section in the third row and fifth row and the section in the fourth row and fifth column, and the axial rib M66a is not formed between the section in the third row and fifth row and the section in the third row and sixth column.

[0271] The seventh fluid passage M64g, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axial direction DRa and can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The seventh fluid passage M64g can bridge three opening sections that are adjacent either in the axial direction DRa or in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, thereby positioning the seventh fluid passage M64g in a position facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The seventh fluid passage M64g can face the opening section of the third row and the opening section of the fourth row. The seventh fluid passage M64g allows the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent in the axial direction DRa, to be connected to each other.The seventh fluid passage M64g allows the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43 and the fourth fluid inlet M47, which are adjacent to each other either in the axis center direction DRa or in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0272] In this case, among the adjacent fourth fluid inlet M47 and fourth fluid outlet M48, the fourth fluid inlet M47 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet and the fourth fluid outlet M48 to the first adjacent outlet. Among the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fourth fluid inlet M47, which are arranged side by side, the second fluid inlet M44 and the fourth fluid inlet M47 correspond to the third adjacent inlets, and the second fluid outlet M43 corresponds to the third adjacent outlet.

[0273] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc, thereby positioning the seventh fluid passage M64g at a location where the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the seventh fluid passage M64g, face the partition M50, which separates the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0274] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the seventh fluid passage M64g at a location where the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite the axial partition M52, which separates the second fluid outlet M43 and the fourth fluid inlet M47.

[0275] The eighth fluid passage M64h has a shape formed by combining the sections in the first to fourth rows and the seventh column. In the eighth fluid passage M64h, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side and the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The eighth fluid passage M64h has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between each of the sections in the first to fourth rows and the seventh column.

[0276] The eighth fluid passage M64h, configured in this way, can span four opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, thereby positioning the eighth fluid passage M64h opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The eighth fluid passage M64h can be opposite the opening section of the first row up to the opening section of the fourth row. The eighth fluid passage M64h allows the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be interconnected. The eighth fluid passage M64h enables the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are arranged adjacent to each other in the axial center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.

[0277] In this case, under the first fluid outlet M41, the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44, which are adjacent to each other, the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 correspond to fourth adjacent inlets. Under the first fluid outlet M41, the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44, which are adjacent to each other, the first fluid outlet M41 and the second fluid outlet M43 correspond to fourth adjacent outlets. Under the third fluid inlet M45, the fourth fluid inlet M47, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid inlet M47, which are adjacent to each other, the third fluid inlet M45 and the fourth fluid inlet M47 correspond to fourth adjacent inlets.Below the third fluid inlet M45, the fourth fluid inlet M47, the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid inlet M47, which are arranged adjacent to each other, the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 correspond to the fourth adjacent outlets.

[0278] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the eighth fluid passage M64h at a location where the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the eighth fluid passage M64h, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not located in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the second fluid inlet M44.

[0279] The ninth fluid passage M64i has a shape formed by combining the sections in the first to fourth rows and the eighth column, the section in the first row and the ninth column, the section in the second row and the ninth column, and the section in the fourth row and the ninth column. In the ninth fluid passage M64i, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side and the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The ninth fluid passage M64i has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between each of the sections in the first to fourth rows and the eighth column, and the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between the section in the first row and the ninth row and the section in the second row and the ninth column.The ninth fluid passage M64i has a shape in which the axial rib M66a is not formed between the section in the first row and the eighth row and the section in the first row and the ninth column, and between the section in the second row and the eighth row and the section in the second row and the ninth column. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i has a shape in which the axial rib M66a is not formed between the section in the fourth row and the eighth row and the section in the fourth row and the ninth column.

[0280] The ninth fluid passage M64i, configured in this way, can span two and four opening sections in the axial direction DRa and can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The ninth fluid passage M64i can span seven opening sections that are adjacent to each other either in the axial direction DRa or in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0281] Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the ninth fluid passage M64i opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The ninth fluid passage M64i can be opposite the opening section of the first row and the opening section of the second row, or opposite the opening section of the first row up to the opening section of the fourth row. The ninth fluid passage M64i allows the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are adjacent in the axial direction DRa, to be connected to each other.The ninth fluid passage M64i enables the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are arranged adjacent to each other in the axial center direction DRa or in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0282] In this case, under the first fluid outlet M41 and the first fluid inlet M42, which are adjacent, the first fluid inlet M42 corresponds to the first adjacent inlet and the first fluid outlet M41 to the first adjacent outlet. Under the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent to each other, the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44 and the third fluid inlet M45 correspond to the fourth adjacent inlets.Below the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are arranged next to each other, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 correspond to the fourth adjacent outlets.

[0283] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the ninth fluid passage M64i at a location where the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the ninth fluid passage M64i, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48 from the fourth fluid inlet M47, which is distinct from these.

[0284] The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position opposite the circumferential partition M51, which separates the third fluid inlet M45 and the third fluid outlet M46.

[0285] Furthermore, the axial rib M66a is not formed at every position opposite the axial partition M52, which separates the first fluid outlet M41 and the third fluid inlet M45, and at every position opposite the axial partition M52, which separates the first fluid inlet M42 and the third fluid outlet M46. The axial rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite the axial partition M52, which separates the second fluid inlet M44 and the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0286] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc, with the ninth fluid passage M64i positioned at a location where the first fluid inlet M42 and the first fluid outlet M41 are connected. At this point, in the axial-side partition M52 separating the first fluid inlet M42, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite the axial-side partition M52 on the side where the third fluid outlet M46 circumferentially DRc (i.e., on the first circumferential DRc1 side) is not present. In the axial-side partition M52 separating the second fluid inlet M44, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position opposite the axial-side partition M52 on the side where the fourth fluid outlet M48 circumferentially DRc (i.e., on the first circumferential DRc1 side) is not present.Furthermore, in the axial-side partition M52, which separates the first fluid outlet M41, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed in a position opposite the axial-side partition M52 on the side where the third fluid inlet M45 in the circumferential direction DRc (i.e. first circumferential direction DRc1 side) is not present.

[0287] The tenth fluid passage M64j has a shape formed by combining the sections in the second to fourth rows and the tenth column. In the tenth fluid passage M64j, the axial rib M66a separates the first circumferential direction DRc1 side from the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, and the circumferential rib M66b separates the first axial center direction DRa1 side from the second axial center direction DRa2 side. The tenth fluid passage M64j has a shape in which the circumferential rib M66b is not formed between each of the sections in the second to fourth rows and the tenth column.

[0288] The tenth fluid passage M64j, configured in this way, can span three opening sections in the axial direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, thereby positioning the tenth fluid passage M64j in a location facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The tenth fluid passage M64j can face the opening section of the second row up to the opening section of the fourth row. The tenth fluid passage M64j allows the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43, which are adjacent in the axial direction DRa, to be interconnected. The tenth fluid passage M64j allows the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are adjacent in the axial direction DRa, to be interconnected.

[0289] In this case, under the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43, which are arranged side by side, the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 correspond to a third adjacent inlet, and the second fluid outlet M43 corresponds to the third adjacent outlet. Under the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, which are arranged side by side, the third fluid inlet M45 corresponds to a second adjacent inlet, and the fourth fluid inlet M47 and the fourth fluid outlet M48 correspond to second adjacent outlets.

[0290] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the tenth fluid passage M64j at a location where the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43 are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the tenth fluid passage M64j, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43 from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the second fluid outlet M43.

[0291] The first closing section M65a is formed in the section of the fourth row. The first closing section M65a is surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b. The first closing section M65a, thus configured, can face the opening section of the fourth row when, by rotating the valve M60 circumferentially DRc, it is positioned in a location facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48. When positioned opposite the second fluid inlet M44, the first closing section M65a closes the second fluid inlet M44, thus preventing fluid from flowing into it. When positioned opposite the fourth fluid outlet M48, the first closing section M65a closes the fourth fluid outlet M48, thus preventing fluid from flowing out of it.

[0292] The second closing section M65b is formed in the section in the second row and the fifth column. The second closing section M65b is surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b. The second closing section M65b, thus configured, can face the opening sections of the second row when it is moved into a position opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48 by rotating the valve M60 circumferentially DRc. When positioned opposite the first fluid inlet M42, the second closing section M65b closes the first fluid inlet M42, thus preventing the flow of fluid into the first fluid inlet M42. When positioned opposite the third fluid outlet M46, the second closing section M65b closes the third fluid outlet M46, thus preventing the flow of fluid from the third fluid outlet M46.

[0293] The third closing section M65c is formed in the section in the second row and the sixth column. The third closing section M65c is surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b. The third closing section M65c, thus configured, can face the opening section of the second row when, by rotating the valve M60 circumferentially DRc, it is brought into a position where it faces the eight opening sections M41 to M48. When positioned opposite the first fluid inlet M42, the third closing section M65c closes the first closing section M42, thereby preventing the flow of fluid into the first fluid inlet M42. When positioned opposite the third fluid outlet M46, the third closing section M65c closes the third fluid outlet M46, thereby preventing the flow of fluid out of the third fluid outlet M46.

[0294] The fourth closing section M65d is formed in the section in the fourth row and the sixth column. The fourth closing section M65d is surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b. The fourth closing section M65d, thus configured, can face the opening sections of the fourth row when it is positioned opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48 by the circumferential rotation of the valve M60 DRc. When positioned opposite the second fluid inlet M44, the fourth closing section M65d closes the second fluid inlet M44, thereby preventing the flow of fluid into the second fluid inlet M44. When positioned opposite the fourth fluid outlet M48, the fourth closing section M65d closes the fourth fluid outlet M48, thereby preventing the flow of fluid from the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0295] The fifth closing section M65e is formed in the section in the third row and the ninth column. The fifth closing section M65e is surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b. The fifth closing section M65e, thus configured, can face the opening sections of the third row when, by rotating the valve M60 circumferentially DRc, it is positioned opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. When positioned opposite the fourth fluid inlet M47, the fifth closing section M65e closes the fourth fluid inlet M47, thus preventing fluid from flowing into it. When positioned opposite the second fluid outlet M43, the fifth closing section M65e closes the second fluid outlet M43, thus preventing fluid from flowing out of it.

[0296] The sixth closure section M65f is formed in the section in the first row and the tenth column. The sixth closure section M65f is surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b. The sixth closure section M65f, thus configured, can face the opening sections of the first row when, by rotating the valve M60 circumferentially DRc, it is brought into a position where it faces the eight opening sections M41 to M48. When positioned opposite the third fluid inlet M45, the sixth closure section M65f closes the third fluid inlet M45, thereby preventing the flow of fluid into the third fluid inlet M45. When positioned facing the first fluid outlet M41, the sixth closure section M65f closes the first fluid outlet M41, thereby preventing fluid from flowing out of the first fluid outlet M41.

[0297] The valve M60 contains the rotary shaft M62, which projects from the first axis center direction DRa1 side and the second axis center direction DRa2 side. A section of the rotary shaft M62 projecting towards the first axis center direction DRa1 is rotatably supported by the bearing section M21, and a section projecting towards the second axis center direction DRa2 is rotatably supported by a support hole M121 formed in the base M12. The end section of the rotary shaft M62 on the first axis center direction DRa1 side penetrates the housing cover M20 and is connected to the speed reduction mechanism of the drive unit M30.

[0298] Furthermore, the valve M60 is provided with the stopper M63 on the surface of the valve M60 on the second axis center direction DRa2 side, which is a section different from the section facing the housing cover M20. The stopper M63 is configured to extend in the axis center direction DRa in the direction of the second axis center direction DRa2 at a position radially DRr from the rotating shaft M62. The stopper M63 is configured in a position facing the rotation control section M122 in the circumferential direction DRc and can come into contact with the rotation control section M122 when the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc. The sealing element M70 is provided between the valve outer wall section M61 of the valve M60 and the cylinder M11 of the housing M10.

[0299] The sealing element M70 is arranged on a section where the eight opening sections M41 to M48 are formed in the valve outer wall section M61 and the cylinder M11, and seals a predetermined gap between the valve M60 and the eight opening sections M41 to M48. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 46, the sealing element M70 is configured to cover all eight opening sections M41 to M48. Fig. 47 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 48, the sealing element M70 is designed with a plurality of through holes M71, which allow the passage of the fluid flowing through the eight opening sections M41 to M48.

[0300] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 47, the sealing element M70 is formed in an essentially fan-shaped plate element in a state prior to fastening between the valve outer wall section M61 and the cylinder M11. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 46, the sealing element M70 is arranged such that the plate thickness direction is the radial direction DRr. The sealing element M70 is bent and, as shown in Fig. 46 and Fig. Figure 48 illustrates the arrangement when it is positioned between the valve outer wall section M61 and the cylinder M11, with an arc-forming section extending in the circumferential direction DRc and arranged along the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11. As described above, the plate surface of the sealing element M70 has a planar shape before installation and, when installed, has a curved surface shape bent in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0301] The sealing element M70 is positioned between the two circumferential sealing adjustment sections M112, and one side and the other side in the circumferential direction DRc are held by the circumferential sealing adjustment section M112. Additionally, the sealing element M70 is inserted into and held by a circumferential sealing adjustment section M112, which is formed on the base M12 on the second axis center direction DRa2 side.

[0302] The sealing element M70 comprises a sliding section M72, positioned on the valve outer wall section M61 side, and a pressure section M73, positioned on the cylinder M11 side when arranged between the valve outer wall section M61 and the cylinder M11. That is, the sealing element M70 is configured by laminating the sliding section M72 and the pressure section M73 in the plate thickness direction. The sliding section M72 and the pressure section M73 are made of different materials.

[0303] Specifically, in the sealing element M70, the sliding section M72 is made of an element with high lubricity and a low coefficient of friction, such as PTFE or a fluorinated resin. In contrast, the pressure section M73 is made of an elastic element, such as a rubber element.

[0304] The sealing element M70 is formed, for example, by applying the sliding section M72, which is made of PTFE, a fluorinated resin, or the like, to the surface of the pressure section M73, which is made of an elastic element such as a rubber element. Alternatively, the sealing element M70 can be formed by integrating the sliding section M72, which is made of PTFE, a fluorinated resin, or the like, and the pressure section M73, which is made of an elastic element such as a rubber element, or by bonding them with an adhesive or by a firing process.

[0305] When the sealing element M70 is positioned between the valve outer wall section M61 and the cylinder M11, the pressure section M73 can be easily deformed to conform to the shape of the cylinder M11. This simplifies the assembly of the sealing element M70 and reduces the gap between the valve M60 and the sealing element M70, as well as the gap between the housing M10 and the sealing element M70. This, in turn, reduces fluid flow into the gap between the valve M60 and the sealing element M70, as well as into the gap between the housing M10 and the sealing element M70.

[0306] Furthermore, the sliding section M72, which is positioned on the valve outer wall section M61 side, is an element with high lubricity and a low coefficient of friction, such as PTFE or a fluorinated resin, so that the sliding resistance between the valve M60 and the sealing element M70 can be reduced.

[0307] In the sealing element M70 of the present embodiment, the size in the circumferential direction DRc is larger than the area in which the eight opening sections M41 to M48 are formed in the cylinder M11. The sealing element M70 has a plurality of through holes M71 in a grid pattern, which penetrate the sealing element M70 in the plate thickness direction along the entire axial direction DRa and the entire circumferential direction DRc. The through holes M71 are arranged in four rows in the axial direction DRa and in four columns in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0308] The four through-holes M71, arranged in each of the axial directions DRa and circumferential directions DRc, have a trapezoidal opening shape corresponding to the eight opening sections M41 to M48. In the trapezoidal shape of the through-hole M71, the size in the circumferential direction DRc is smaller on the second axial direction DRa2 side than on the first axial direction DRa1 side. In other words, the opening shape of the through-hole M71 corresponds to the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j and specifically to the sections that form the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j.

[0309] Among the through holes M71 arranged in four columns circumferentially DRc, the groups of through holes M71 in the two middle columns are formed at positions opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The group of through holes M71 in the two middle columns allows the passage of the fluid flowing through the eight opening sections M41 to M48.

[0310] In contrast, among the through holes M71 arranged in four columns in the circumferential direction DRc, the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, and the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, are located at positions that are not opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. That is, the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, and the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, are located on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction DRc2 side with respect to the eight opening sections M41 to M48.

[0311] The sections of the sealing element M70, which form the groups of through holes M71 in the two middle columns, surround the eight opening sections M41 to M48 and reduce the mixing of the fluid flowing through each of the eight opening sections M41 to M48.

[0312] In the sealing element M70, the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on the first circumferential DRc1 side, and the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on the second circumferential DRc2 side, surround the fluid passage that does not face the eight openings M41 to M48. Thus, the sealing element M70 seals the fluid passage from the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j, in which the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on each of the first circumferential DRc1 side and the second circumferential DRc2 side does not face the eight opening sections M41 to M48.In this case, the sealing element M70 reduces the mixing of the fluid flowing through the fluid passage that is not opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48 under the first fluid passages M64a to the tenth fluid passages M64j.

[0313] Here, the number of columns of the eight opening sections M41 to M48, arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc, is referred to as the number of opening columns, and the number of columns of the through holes M71, arranged in four columns in the circumferential direction DRc, is referred to as the number of through hole columns. In the present embodiment, the number of opening columns is fixed at two. The number of through hole columns is fixed at four. That is, in the present embodiment, the number of through hole columns is fixed at two more than the number of opening columns. Specifically, the through holes M71 are provided in an additional column on each side in the circumferential direction DRc with respect to the eight opening sections M41 to M48, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc.Thus, the sealing element M70 contains the group of through holes M71 in a column on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and the group of through holes M71 in a column on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, which are formed in positions that are not opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0314] The reason why the number of through-holes is set to be greater than the number of openings is explained with reference to Fig. 49 and Fig. 50 described. Illustrated here Fig. 49 A front view of valve M60 when valve M60 is positioned such that part of the ninth fluid passage M64i faces the opening section of the first column and the sixth closure section M65f and the tenth fluid passage M64j face the opening section of the second column. A dashed line in Fig. 49 indicates an area covered by the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the valve outer wall section M61.

[0315] As described above, the ninth fluid passage M64i can span two circumferential opening sections DRc. Therefore, if the second circumferential DRc2 side of the ninth fluid passage M64i is positioned facing the opening section of the first column, the first circumferential DRc1 side is not facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The ninth fluid passage M64i then allows the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, which are not adjacent to each other, to be connected via a section on the first circumferential DRc1 side that is not facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The fluid flowing from the second fluid inlet M44 into the valve M60 then flows through a section of the ninth fluid passage M64i on the first circumferential DRc1 side to the first fluid outlet M41.This means that the fluid flowing into the valve M60 from the second fluid inlet M44 flows to the first fluid outlet M41, bypassing the position opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48.

[0316] Here, it is assumed that the number of through-hole gaps is fixed to the same number as the number of opening gaps. In this case, if the fluid flowing from the second fluid inlet M44 into the valve M60 flows into the section of the ninth fluid passage M64i on the first circumferential DRc1 side, the fluid can escape from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11.

[0317] In contrast, in the present embodiment, the number of through-hole slots is fixed at two more than the number of opening slots. The sealing element M70 includes sections that form the group of through-holes M71 in a slot on the first circumferential DRc1 side and the group of through-holes M71 in a slot on the second circumferential DRc2 side at positions that are not opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the circumferential DRc direction.

[0318] Thus, the section forming the group of through holes M71 in a column on the first circumferential DRc1 side surrounds the non-opposite section, even if the sealing element M70 is positioned where the first circumferential DRc1 side of the ninth fluid passage M64i is not opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. Therefore, if the fluid flowing from the second fluid inlet M44 into the valve M60 flows into the section of the ninth fluid passage M64i on the first circumferential DRc1 side, it is possible to reduce fluid leakage from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11.

[0319] Back to Fig. Figure 38 describes the preload section M80 located between the first axis-centered side DRa1 of the valve M60 and the second axis-centered side DRa2 of the housing cover M20. The preload section M80 is an element that presses the valve M60 in the second axis-centered direction DRa2 and is, for example, formed from a compression coil spring. The compression coil spring is located between the valve M60 and the housing cover M20 in a compressed state and presses the valve M60 in the second axis-centered direction DRa2 by means of a preload force generated by the compression.

[0320] Here, as described above, the internal angle θ, formed by the generating line of the conical shape parallel to the valve outer wall section M61 and the axis center CL, is set to 5 degrees or more. Thus, the preload force of the preload section M80 acts as a component for pressing the valve M60 and the sealing element M70, and as a component for pressing the sealing element M70 and the cylinder M11. Therefore, by adjusting the preload force of the preload section M80, it is possible to maintain a state in which the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the sealing element M70 are in sliding contact with each other, and a state in which the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 and the sealing element M70 are in contact with each other, both during rotation and when the valve M60 is stationary.

[0321] A spring guide M81 is provided between the first axis-centered DRa1 side of the valve M60 and the second axis-centered DRa2 side of the housing cover M20. The spring guide M81 supports the preload section M80, which contains a compression coil spring. The spring guide M81 comprises a cylindrical section M811, which has a cylindrical shape and is located within the preload section M80, and a disc section M812, which has a thin disc shape and is connected to the cylindrical section M811 on the second axis-centered DRa2 side.

[0322] The cylindrical section M811 extends along the DRa axis, and its interior is supported by the housing cover M20. The disc section M812 is located on the first DRa1 axis side of the valve M60 and is supported by the valve M60. The disc section M812 supports the preload section M80 on the second DRa2 axis side.

[0323] The spring guide M81, configured as described above, can reduce the radial displacement of the preload section M80 DRr and transfer the preload force of the preload section M80 to the valve M60.

[0324] In each of the fluid control valve M1 configurations described above, the housing cover M20, the cover seal M23, the valve M60, the sealing element M70, and the preload section M80 are configured to be removable from the first axis center direction DRa1 side of the housing M10. Therefore, the following steps can be used as a procedure for manufacturing the fluid control valve M1. First, the sealing element M70 is mounted to the housing M10. Next, the valve M60 is mounted to the housing M10. Then, the housing cover M20, fitted with the cover seal M23, is mounted to the housing M10, while the spring guide M81 and the preload section M80 are positioned. Finally, the actuator M30 is mounted to the housing cover M20, and the assembly of the fluid control valve M1 is complete.

[0325] Next, the operation of the fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. As described in section 45, the fluid control valve M1 allows the fluid to flow into the valve receiving chamber AS from one or more of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 by adjusting the rotational position of the valve M60. The fluid control valve M1 also allows the fluid flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS to flow out from one or more of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlets M48. That is, the fluid control valve M1 rotates the valve M60 around its axis CL and switches the flow path inlet facing the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j, thereby changing the fluid outlet from which the fluid exits. This switches the operating mode of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment is configured to change the operating mode by switching the rotary position of the valve M60 into the ten rotary positions described with reference to Fig. 45 are described, to switch between ten switching patterns.

[0326] Here is among the in Fig. Figure 45 illustrates the rotational positions of valve M60. A position in which the first fluid passage M64a faces the opening section of the first column is defined as the first valve position, and a position in which the fourth fluid passage M64d faces the opening section of the first column is defined as the second valve position. Furthermore, a position in which the fifth fluid passage M64e faces the opening section of the first column is defined as the third valve position, a position in which the sixth fluid passage M64f faces the opening section of the first column is defined as the fourth valve position, and a position in which the first closing section M65a faces the opening section of the first column is defined as the fifth valve position.A position where the eighth fluid passage M64h faces the opening section of the second column is defined as the sixth valve position; a position where the eighth fluid passage M64h faces the opening section of the first column is defined as the seventh valve position; and a position where the fifth closure section M65e faces the opening section of the second column is defined as the eighth valve position. A position where the tenth fluid passage M64j faces the opening section of the second column is defined as the ninth valve position; and a position where the tenth fluid passage M64j faces the opening section of the first column is defined as the tenth valve position.

[0327] When valve M60 is in the first valve position, the upstream side of the first fluid passage M64a is connected to the first fluid inlet M42, and the downstream side is connected to the first fluid outlet M41. In the second fluid passage M64b, the upstream fluid flow is connected to the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream fluid flow is connected to the second fluid outlet M43. In the third fluid passage M64c, the upstream fluid flow is connected to the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream fluid flow is connected to the third fluid outlet M46. In the fourth fluid passage M64d, the upstream fluid flow is connected to the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream fluid flow is connected to the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0328] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 is directed via the first fluid passage M64a to the first fluid outlet M41 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 is directed via the second fluid passage M64b to the second fluid outlet M43 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is directed via the third fluid passage M64c to the third fluid outlet M46 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is directed via the fourth fluid passage M64d to the fourth fluid outlet M48 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1.

[0329] In this case, each of the first fluid passage M64a, the second fluid passage M64b, the third fluid passage M64c and the fourth fluid passage M64d acts as a first flow path section that directs the fluid flowing from any of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to one of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which each fluid passage provides a connection.

[0330] When valve M60 is in the second valve position, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c is connected to the first fluid inlet M42 and the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side is connected to the first fluid outlet M41. In the fourth fluid passage M64d, the upstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the second fluid outlet M43. In the fifth fluid passage M64e, the upstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0331] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 are combined at the third fluid passage M64c, directed to the first fluid outlet M41, and flow to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 is directed via the fourth fluid passage M64d to the second fluid outlet M43 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is split by the fifth fluid passage M64e, directed to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1.

[0332] In this case, the third fluid passage M64c acts as the third flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from two of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any one of the first fluid outlets M41 up to the fourth fluid outlet M48, to which the fluid passage is connected. The fourth fluid passage M64d acts as the first flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlets M47 to any one of the first fluid outlets M41 up to the fourth fluid outlet M48, to which the fluid passage is connected. The fifth fluid passage M64e acts as the second flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two of the first fluid outlets M41 up to the fourth fluid outlet M48, to which the fluid passage is connected.The second valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotation position in which the fluid flows through the fourth fluid passage M64d, which acts as the first flow path section, and corresponds to an example of a third rotation position in which the fluid flows through the third fluid passage M64c, which acts as the third flow path section. The second valve position corresponds to an example of a second rotation position in which the fluid flows through the fifth fluid passage M64e, which acts as the second flow path section.

[0333] When valve M60 is in the third valve position, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c is connected to the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side is connected to the first fluid outlet M41. In the fifth fluid passage M64e, the upstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the second fluid outlet M43. In the sixth fluid passage M64f, the upstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the third fluid outlet M46. The first closure section M65a closes the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0334] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is directed via the third fluid passage M64c to the first fluid outlet M41 and flows out of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 are combined at the fifth fluid passage M64e, directed to the second fluid outlet M43, and flow to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is directed via the sixth fluid passage M64f to the third fluid outlet M46 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. However, the fourth fluid outlet M48 is closed by the first sealing section M65a and is not connected to any of the first fluid inlets M42 up to the fourth fluid inlet M47, thus preventing fluid from escaping.

[0335] In this case, the third fluid passage M64c and the sixth fluid passage M64f act as the first flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlets M47 to one of the first fluid outlets M41 up to the fourth fluid outlets M48, with which the fluid passages connect. The fifth fluid passage M64e acts as the second flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two of the first fluid outlets M41 up to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage connects.The third valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotation position in which the fluid flows through the third fluid passage M64c and the sixth fluid passage M64f, which act as the first flow path section, and corresponds to an example of a second rotation position in which the fluid flows through the fifth fluid passage M64e, which acts as the second flow path section.

[0336] When valve M60 is positioned in the third valve position, one column of the third fluid passage M64c on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side is not facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48, and two columns on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side are not facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 flows to a section that forms one column on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and to a section that forms two columns on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side in the third fluid passage M64c.

[0337] The section forming the single gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the third fluid passage M64c is, however, surrounded by the section forming the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the sealing element M70. This results in a reduction of the fluid leakage flowing from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 to the section forming the single gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the third fluid passage M64c.

[0338] In contrast, among the sections forming the two gaps on the second circumferential DRc2 side in the third fluid passage M64c, the section closest to the second circumferential DRc2 side is not surrounded by the section forming the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the second circumferential DRc2 side in the sealing element M70. Therefore, the fluid flowing to the section forming the two gaps on the second circumferential DRc2 side in the third fluid passage M64c can flow from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 to the rear of the valve M60.

[0339] Assuming that the fluid flows towards the rear of the valve M60, the section forming the gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side of the third fluid passage M64c is surrounded by the section forming the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side of the sealing element M70. The fourth fluid passage M64d is surrounded by the section of the sealing element M70 that forms the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side. This reduces the leakage of fluid flowing into the rear of the valve M60 from the third fluid passage M64c and the fourth fluid passage M64d.

[0340] When valve M60 is in the fourth valve position, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c is connected to the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side is connected to the first fluid outlet M41. In the sixth fluid passage M64f, the upstream fluid flow is connected to the first fluid inlet M42, and the downstream fluid flow is connected to the second fluid outlet M43. In the seventh fluid passage M64g, the upstream fluid flow is connected to the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream fluid flow is connected to the fourth fluid outlet M48. The first closing section M65a closes the second fluid inlet M44. The second closing section M65b closes the third fluid outlet M46.

[0341] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is directed via the third fluid passage M64c to the first fluid outlet M41 and flows out of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 is directed via the sixth fluid passage M64f to the second fluid outlet M43 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is directed via the seventh fluid passage M64g to the fourth fluid outlet M48 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. However, the second fluid inlet M44 is closed by the first sealing section M65a, preventing the fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS. The third fluid outlet M46 is closed by the second sealing section M65b and is not connected to any of the fluid inlets from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, thus preventing the fluid from flowing out.

[0342] In this case, the third fluid passage M64c, the sixth fluid passage M64f, and the seventh fluid passage M64g act as the first flow path segment, directing the fluid flowing from one of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to one of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passages provide a connection. The fourth valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotary position, in which the fluid flows through each of the third fluid passage M64c, the sixth fluid passage M64f, and the seventh fluid passage M64g, which act as the first flow path segment.

[0343] When valve M60 is positioned in the fourth valve position, in the third fluid passage M64c, two gaps on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side do not face the eight opening sections M41 to M48, and one gap on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side does not face the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 flows to the section that forms the two gaps on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side and to the section that forms the one gap on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side in the third fluid passage M64c.

[0344] The section forming the gap on the second circumferential DRc2 side in the third fluid passage M64c is surrounded by the section forming the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the second circumferential DRc2 side in the sealing element M70. This reduces the leakage of fluid flowing from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 to the section forming the gap on the second circumferential DRc2 side in the third fluid passage M64c.

[0345] In contrast, among the sections forming the two gaps on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the third fluid passage M64c, the section closest to the first circumferential DRc1 side is not surrounded by the section forming the group of through-hole gaps M71 in a single gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the sealing element M70. Therefore, the fluid flowing to the section forming the single gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the third fluid passage M64c can flow from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 to the rear of the valve M60.

[0346] Assuming that the fluid flows towards the rear of valve M60, the section forming a gap on the second circumferential DRc2 side in the third fluid passage M64c is surrounded by the section forming the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the second circumferential DRc2 side in the sealing element M70. The seventh fluid passage M64g is surrounded by the section of the sealing element M70 that forms the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the second circumferential DRc2 side. Furthermore, the third closure section M65c and the fourth closure section M65d are surrounded by the section of the sealing element M70 that forms the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side. This allows a reduction in the fluid flow flowing into the rear of the M60 valve into the third fluid passage M64c and the seventh fluid passage M64g.

[0347] When valve M60 is in the fifth valve position, the upstream side of the third fluid passage M64c is connected to the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side is connected to the first fluid outlet M41. In the seventh fluid passage M64g, the upstream fluid flow is connected to the second fluid inlet M44 and the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream fluid flow is connected to the second fluid outlet M43. The second closing section M65b closes the first fluid inlet M42. The third closing section M65c closes the third fluid outlet M46. The fourth closing section M65d closes the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0348] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is directed via the third fluid passage M64c to the first fluid outlet M41 and flows out of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 and the fluid flowing from the fourth fluid inlet M47 are combined at the seventh fluid passage M64g, directed to the second fluid outlet M43, and flow to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. However, the first fluid inlet M42 is closed by the second sealing section M65b, preventing fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS. The third fluid outlet M46 is closed by the third sealing section M65c and is not connected to any of the fluid inlets from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, thus preventing fluid from flowing out.The fourth fluid outlet M48 is closed by the fourth closure section M65d and is not connected to any of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, thus preventing fluid from escaping.

[0349] In this case, the third fluid passage M64c acts as the first flow path segment, directing the fluid flowing from one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to one of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection. The seventh fluid passage M64g acts as the third flow path segment, directing the fluid flowing from two of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to one of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection. The fifth valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotation position in which the fluid flows through the third fluid passage M64c, which acts as the first flow path segment, and corresponds to an example of a third rotation position in which the fluid flows through the seventh fluid passage M64g, which acts as the third flow path segment.

[0350] When valve M60 is in the sixth valve position, the upstream side of the eighth fluid passage M64h is connected to the third fluid inlet M45 and the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side is connected to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48. The third fluid passage M64c closes the first fluid outlet M41. The third closure section M65c closes the first fluid inlet M42. The seventh fluid passage M64g closes the second fluid outlet M43. The fourth closure section M65d closes the second fluid inlet M44.

[0351] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 and the fluid flowing from the fourth fluid inlet M47 are combined and divided at the eighth fluid passage M64h, directed to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, and flow to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. However, the first fluid outlet M41 is closed by the third fluid passage M64c and is not connected to any of the fluid inlets from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, thus preventing fluid from flowing out. The first fluid inlet M42 is closed by the third closure section M65c, thus preventing fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS. The second fluid outlet M43 is closed by the seventh fluid passage M64g and is not connected to any of the fluid inlets from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, thus preventing fluid from flowing out.The second fluid inlet M44 is closed by the fourth closure section M65d, thus preventing the fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS.

[0352] In this case, the eighth fluid passage M64h acts as the fourth flow path segment, directing the fluid flowing from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection. The sixth valve position corresponds to an example of a fourth rotary position, in which the fluid flows through the eighth fluid passage M64h, which acts as the fourth flow path segment.

[0353] When valve M60 is in the seventh valve position, the upstream side of the fluid flow in the eighth fluid passage M64h is connected to the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the first fluid outlet M41 and the second fluid outlet M43. In the ninth fluid passage M64i, the upstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the third fluid inlet M45 and the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0354] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 are combined and divided at the eighth fluid passage M64h, directed to the first fluid outlet M41 and the second fluid outlet M43, and flow outwards from the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 and the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 are combined and divided at the ninth fluid passage M64i and directed to the third fluid outlet M46. Fluid is directed from the fourth fluid outlet M48 and flows outwards from the fluid control valve M1.

[0355] In this case, the eighth fluid passage M64h and the ninth fluid passage M64i act as a fourth flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from two of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlets M47 to any two from the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, to which the fluid passages are connected. The seventh valve position corresponds to an example of a fourth rotary position, in which the fluid flows through the eighth fluid passage M64h and the ninth fluid passage M64i, which act as a fourth flow path section.

[0356] When valve M60 is in the eighth valve position, the upstream side of the ninth fluid passage M64i is connected to the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, and the third fluid inlet M45. In this case, the downstream side of the ninth fluid passage M64i is connected to the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48. The fifth closure section M65e closes the fourth fluid inlet M47.

[0357] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42, the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44, and the fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 are combined and divided in the ninth fluid passage M64i and directed to the first fluid outlet M41, the second fluid outlet M43, the third fluid outlet M46, and the fourth fluid outlet M48, and flow to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. However, the fourth fluid inlet M47 is closed by the fifth closure section M65e, preventing fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS.

[0358] In this case, the ninth fluid passage M64i acts as the fourth flow path segment, directing the fluid flowing from three of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to all four of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection. The eighth valve position corresponds to an example of a fourth rotary position, in which the fluid flows through the ninth fluid passage M64i, which acts as the fourth flow path segment.

[0359] When valve M60 is positioned in the ninth valve position, the upstream side of the ninth fluid passage M64i is connected to the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side is connected to the first fluid outlet M41. At this point, the second fluid inlet M44 and the first fluid outlet M41 are connected to each other via a section on the first circumferential DRc1 side, which is not opposite any of the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the ninth fluid passage M64i. This means that the ninth fluid passage M64i allows the second fluid inlet M44 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are not adjacent to each other, to be connected in the opening section of the first column, which is provided at the end section on the first circumferential DRc1 side below the eight opening sections M41 to M48, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc.When valve M60 is in the ninth valve position, the upstream side of the tenth fluid passage M64j is connected to the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side is connected to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48. The fifth closing section M65e closes the second fluid outlet M43. The sixth closing section M65f closes the third fluid inlet M45.

[0360] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 are combined and separated at the ninth fluid passage M64i, directed to the first fluid outlet M41, and flow to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. At this point, the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 is directed to the first fluid outlet M41, bypassing the sections facing the eight openings M41 to M48 in the valve outer wall section M61.

[0361] Specifically, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 flows to the side in the second axis direction DRa2 in the ninth fluid passage M64i and then flows to a section on the side in the first axis direction DRa1 in the ninth fluid passage M64i, which continues in the circumferential direction DRc. The fluid flows to the side in the first axis direction DRa1 at a section in the first circumferential direction DRc1 in the ninth fluid passage M64i and then flows to the side in the second circumferential direction DRc2 to flow to the first fluid outlet M41.

[0362] As described above, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 and then flowing into the ninth fluid passage M64i flows in the circumferential direction DRc and the axis-center direction DRa, while in the ninth fluid passage M64i it hardly flows in the radial direction DRr.

[0363] The fluid flowing in through the fourth fluid inlet M47 is divided by the tenth fluid passage M64j, directed to the third fluid outlet M46 and the fourth fluid outlet M48, and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. However, the second fluid outlet M43 is closed by the fifth closure section M65e and is not connected to any of the first fluid inlets M42 through the fourth fluid inlet M47, thus preventing fluid from flowing out. The third fluid inlet M45 is closed by the sixth closure section M65f, thus preventing fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS.

[0364] When the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 to the first fluid outlet M41, the fluid flows into the ninth fluid passage M64i, bypassing the sections opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48 of the valve outer wall section M61. The section forming a gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side, which allows flow bypassing the sections facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the ninth fluid passage M64i, is surrounded by the section forming the group of through holes M71 in a gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the sealing element M70.This leads to a reduction in the leakage of the fluid flowing from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 through the section that forms the one gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the ninth fluid passage M64i.

[0365] In this case, the ninth fluid passage M64i acts as a bypass flow path section, diverting the fluid flowing from the second fluid inlet M44, located on the end section on the first circumferential DRc1 side, to the first fluid outlet M41, while bypassing the sections facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the valve outer wall section M61. Specifically, the second circumferential DRc2 side of the ninth fluid passage M64i faces the eight openings M41 to M48 and acts as an opposing flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 directly to the first fluid outlet M41.The first circumferential DRc1 side of the ninth fluid passage M64i acts as a bypass flow path section, diverting the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44 to the first fluid outlet M41, while bypassing the sections facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the valve outer wall section M61.

[0366] The ninth fluid passage M64i is provided at the end section on the first circumferential DRc1 side and allows the second fluid inlet M44, the first fluid inlet M42, and the first fluid outlet M41, which are not adjacent to each other, to be connected. Furthermore, the ninth fluid passage M64i is configured to have the same size as the eight opening sections M41 to M48 on the circumferential DRc side and also functions as the fourth flow path section, as described above, when positioned opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48. The tenth fluid passage M64j functions as a second flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two fluid outlets from the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection.

[0367] The ninth valve position corresponds to an example of a fourth rotary position in which the fluid flows through the ninth fluid passage M64i, which acts as the fourth flow path section, and corresponds to an example of a second rotary position in which the fluid flows through the tenth fluid passage M64j, which acts as the second flow path section.

[0368] When valve M60 is in the tenth valve position, the upstream side of the tenth fluid passage M64j is connected to the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid inlet M44, and the downstream side is connected to the second fluid outlet M43. In the first fluid passage M64a, the upstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the third fluid inlet M45, and the downstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the third fluid outlet M46. In the second fluid passage M64b, the upstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the downstream side of the fluid flow is connected to the fourth fluid outlet M48. The sixth closure section M65f closes the first fluid outlet M41.

[0369] Thus, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42 and the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 are combined in the tenth fluid passage M64j, directed to the second fluid outlet M43, and flow to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. The fluid flowing in from the third fluid inlet M45 is directed via the first fluid passage M64a to the third fluid outlet M46 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1. Furthermore, the fluid flowing in from the fourth fluid inlet M47 is directed via the second fluid passage M64b to the fourth fluid outlet M48 and flows to the outside of the fluid control valve M1.

[0370] In this case, each of the first fluid passage M64a and the second fluid passage M64b acts as a first flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from one of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlets M47 to one of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlets M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection. The tenth fluid passage M64j acts as a third flow path section, directing the fluid flowing from two of the first fluid inlets M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to one of the first fluid outlets M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection.The tenth valve position corresponds to an example of a first rotary position in which the fluid flows through the first fluid passage M64a and the second fluid passage M64b, which act as the first flow path section, and corresponds to an example of a third rotary position in which the fluid flows through the tenth fluid passage M64j, which acts as the third flow path section.

[0371] In this way, switching valve M60 from the first valve position to the tenth valve position changes the switching pattern of the operating mode to one of the ten patterns. In each switching pattern, the fluid inlet, into which the fluid flows from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fluid outlet, from which the fluid flows from the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, can be switched.

[0372] As described above, in the fluid control valve M1 of the present embodiment, the through holes M71 are formed in the sealing element M70, wherein a plurality of through holes are arranged in the axial direction DRa and the through holes are arranged in a plurality of slots in the circumferential direction DRc. The number of through hole slots is set to be greater than the number of opening slots.

[0373] Accordingly, the sealing element M70 surrounds the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i, when the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i are positioned at positions extending along the opening section at the end section in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0374] Therefore, it is possible to reduce the flow of fluid through these fluid passages between the valve outer wall section M61 and the cylinder M11, even if the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g, and the ninth fluid passage M64i are positioned in locations that span the opening section at the end section in the circumferential direction DRc. It is also possible to reduce the flow of fluid through the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g, and the ninth fluid passage M64i to the rear of the valve M60. Therefore, the rotational position of the valve M60 cannot be adjusted so that the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g, and the ninth fluid passage M64i do not span the opening section formed at the end section in the circumferential direction DRc.This means it is possible to reduce the fluid flow to the rear of valve M60 without limiting the switching pattern of the fluid control valve M1, which is switched by adjusting the rotary position of valve M60.

[0375] According to the fourteenth embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0376] (1) In the fourteenth embodiment, the number of through-hole slots is set at two more than the number of opening slots. The through-holes M71 are provided in an additional slot on each side in the circumferential direction DRc with respect to the eight opening sections M41 to M48, which are arranged in two slots in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0377] Accordingly, even if the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i are positioned at locations spanning the opening section at either the end section on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side or the end section on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, it is possible to reduce the flow of fluid to the rear of the valve M60.

[0378] (2) In the fourteenth embodiment, the eight opening sections M41 to M48 are formed in a grid pattern, and the first fluid outlet M41, the first fluid inlet M42, and the second fluid inlet M44 are provided at the end section on the first circumferential DRc1 side. The valve outer wall section M61 is formed with the ninth fluid passage M64i, which directs the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 to the first fluid outlet M41, while bypassing sections facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the valve outer wall section M61. The sealing element M70 surrounds the ninth fluid passage M64i at a position that does not face the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the circumferential DRc direction.

[0379] Accordingly, the flow path can be formed by the ninth fluid passage M64i, which is positioned outside the eight opening sections M41 to M48 and is not directly connected to them. This means that the portion of the valve outer wall section M61 through which the fluid flows is not limited to the position facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48, thus increasing the degree of freedom in the fluid flow pattern. This allows for an increase in switching patterns at the time of switching from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, which are connected to the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0380] (3) In the fourteenth embodiment, the ninth fluid passage M64i enables a connection between the second fluid inlet M44 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are not adjacent to each other.

[0381] Accordingly, among the eight opening sections M41 to M48, the opening sections connected by the ninth fluid passage M64i are not limited to those opposite each other, thus allowing for an improvement in the degree of freedom in the nature of the fluid flow. This enables an increase in the switching patterns at the time of switching from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, which are connected to the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0382] (4) In the fourteenth embodiment, the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j are designed as ten cells in the valve outer wall section M61, if the flow path section of each column is a single-cell flow path section.

[0383] Accordingly, even if the M60 valve is rotated every two columns so that all sections facing the eight openings M41 to M48 are changed, five switching patterns can be ensured.

[0384] (5) In the fourteenth embodiment, the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc such that the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j, which are opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc, all change one column.

[0385] Accordingly, the rotation of the valve M60 changes the sections opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc, to each column, so that ten switching patterns can be ensured.

[0386] (6) In the fourteenth embodiment, the sealing element M70 comprises the sliding section M72 facing the valve outer wall section M61 and the pressure section M73 facing the cylinder M11. The sliding section M72 and the pressure section M73 are made of different materials.

[0387] Accordingly, materials can be selected from among the properties required for the sealing element M70 that correspond to the required properties, namely for the cylinder M11 side, which requires elasticity, and for the valve outer wall section M61 side, which requires lubricity.

[0388] (7) In the fourteenth embodiment, the preload section M80 is provided, which preloads the valve M60 in the second axis center direction DRa2. The valve outer wall section M61 is formed along the side surface of the conical shape with its apex on the side of the second axis center direction DRa2. The preload section M80 preloads the valve M60 towards the apex of the conical shape, maintains a state in which the valve outer wall section M61 and the sealing element M70 are pressed both during rotation and during the stopping of the valve M60, and maintains a state in which the cylinder M11 and the sealing element M70 are pressed.

[0389] Accordingly, it is possible to easily adjust one component of the force for pressing the M60 valve and the M70 sealing element, and another component of the force for pressing the M10 housing and the M70 sealing element. Since the gap between the M60 valve and the M70 sealing element, and the gap between the M10 housing and the M70 sealing element, can thus be reduced, the sealing capacity between the M60 valve and the M70 sealing element, and between the M10 housing and the M70 sealing element, can be ensured.

[0390] Furthermore, the valve outer wall section M61 is formed along the side surface of the conical shape, and the valve M60 is pre-tensioned by the pre-tensioning section M80 towards the apex of the conical shape. Thus, the valve M60 and the sealing element M70 remain in sliding contact with each other even if wear occurs on the sliding surface between the valve M60 and the sealing element M70 due to aging or similar causes. Therefore, the fluid control valve M1 can maintain the sealing capacity between the valve M60 and the sealing element M70 against aging wear.

[0391] (8) In the fourteenth embodiment, the internal angle θ formed by the generating end of the conical shape parallel to the valve outer wall section M61 and the axis center CL is 5 degrees or more.

[0392] Accordingly, the sliding contact state between the valve outer wall section M61 and the sealing element M70 can be easily ensured by the component force of the preload force of the preload section M80 in the second axis center direction DRa2, i.e., a component force acting on the sealing element M70 and the cylinder M11 from the valve outer wall section M61. Furthermore, the contact state between the cylinder M11 and the sealing element M70 can be maintained, and the sealing capability between the cylinder M11 and the sealing element M70 can be ensured.

[0393] (9) In the fourteenth embodiment, the inner circumferential surface M16, which forms the valve receiving chamber AS in the cylinder M11, is shaped along the side surface of the conical shape similarly to the valve outer wall section M61.

[0394] Accordingly, the contact state between the cylinder M11 and the sealing element M70 can be maintained and the sealing capability can be ensured by the component force of the preload force of the preload section M80 in the second axis center direction DRa2, i.e. a component force acting on the sealing element M70 and the cylinder M11 from the valve outer wall section M61.

[0395] (10) In the fourteenth embodiment, the rotary shaft M62 of the valve M60 projects in the direction of the first axis center direction DRa1. The valve M60, the cover seal M23 and the housing cover M20 can be removed from the housing M10 from the first axis center direction DRa1.

[0396] In contrast to the configuration of the fourteenth embodiment, when the rotary shaft M62 projects in the direction of the second axis centerline DRa2, the shaft hole M22 and the cover seal M23 are provided in the base M12 of the housing M10. In this case, when mounting the valve M60 to the housing M10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve M1, care must be taken to ensure that the rotary shaft M62 and the cover seal M23 do not come into contact with each other and that the cover seal M23 is not damaged, which is difficult. Specifically, it is necessary to mount the valve M60 to the housing M10 in such a way that the centerline of the housing M10 and the centerline of the valve M60 are aligned over the entire mounting stroke.

[0397] In contrast, in the fourteenth embodiment, the rotating shaft M62 projects in the direction of the first axis center direction DRa1, and the cover seal M23 is provided in the shaft hole M22 of the housing cover M20. Therefore, when mounting the valve M60 to the housing M10 during the manufacture of the fluid control valve M1, the probability of contact between the rotating shaft M62 and the cover seal M23 is reduced, thus facilitating assembly.

[0398] (11) In the fourteenth embodiment, the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10 by a snap fastener.

[0399] Accordingly, compared to the case where a fastener such as a screw is used, the number of parts required to mount and secure the M20 housing cover to the M10 housing can be reduced.

[0400] (12) In the fourteenth embodiment, the valve M60 includes the stopper M63, which regulates the rotation of the valve M60. The stopper M63 is provided on a section that differs from a section facing the housing cover M20.

[0401] If the stopper M63 is provided in the housing cover M20, a load is exerted on the section where the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10 when the rotation of the valve M60 is regulated. This can lead to breakage of the section where the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10. In contrast, according to the fourteenth embodiment, it is possible to avoid exerting a load on the section where the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10 when the rotation of the valve M60 is regulated. Therefore, breakage of the section where the housing cover M20 is attached to the housing M10 can be avoided.

[0402] (13) In the fourteenth embodiment, the housing M10 includes the base M12, which closes the second axis center direction DRa2 side of the housing M10. The stopper M63 projects towards the base M12. The base M12 contains the rotation control section M122, which is in contact with the stopper M63 to control the rotation of the valve M60.

[0403] Accordingly, in comparison to the case in which the rotation regulating section M122 is formed on the inner circumferential surface M16 of the housing M10, on which the sealing element M70 is provided, the sealing surface between the valve outer wall section M61 and the cylinder M11 can be reliably ensured.

[0404] (14) In the fourteenth embodiment, the stopper M63 is designed to extend in the axis center direction DRa.

[0405] Accordingly, the stopper M63 can easily be brought into contact with the rotary control section M122, which is provided on the base M12. (Fifteenth embodiment)

[0406] Next, a fifteenth embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. The fifteenth embodiment is described in sections 51 to 54. It differs from the fourteenth embodiment in the shapes of the housing M10, the valve M60, and the sealing element M70. Otherwise, the fifteenth embodiment is similar to the fourteenth embodiment. Therefore, the fifteenth embodiment mainly describes the parts that differ from the fourteenth embodiment, and the description of parts similar to those of the fourteenth embodiment can be omitted.

[0407] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 51, the housing M10 of the fifteenth embodiment is larger in the axial direction DRa than that of the fourteenth embodiment. That is, the cylinder M11 of the present embodiment is larger in the axial direction DRa than the cylinder M11 of the fourteenth embodiment. Compared to the fourteenth embodiment, opening sections M49a and M49b have been added to the cylinder M11 of the fifteenth embodiment. That is, ten opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, M48, M49a, and M49b are formed in the cylinder M11. These ten opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, M48, M49a, M49b are formed in a grid pattern, with five opening sections arranged in the axis center direction DRa and the opening sections arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0408] In the following, the ten opening sections M41, M42, M43, M44, M45, M46, M47, M48, M49a, and M49b will also be referred to as the ten opening sections M41 to M49b. Opening section M49a is referred to as the fifth fluid inlet M49a. Opening section M49b is referred to as the fifth fluid outlet M49b. The fifth fluid inlet M49a is an inlet port that allows fluid to flow into the valve receiving chamber AS in the housing M10. The fifth fluid outlet M49b is an outlet port that allows the fluid flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS in the housing M10 to flow outwards from the valve receiving chamber AS.

[0409] The first fluid outlet M41, the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44, the second fluid outlet M43, and the fifth fluid outlet M49b are arranged on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side, from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2. The third fluid inlet M45, the third fluid outlet M46, the fourth fluid outlet M48, the fourth fluid inlet M47, and the fifth fluid inlet M49a are arranged on the second circumferential direction DRc2 side, from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2.

[0410] In the sealing element M70 of the fifteenth embodiment, as in Fig. Figure 52 illustrates that when the size DRa in the axial direction of the cylinder M11 is increased, the size DRa in the axial direction increases compared to the fourteenth embodiment. The five through-hole slots M71 formed in the sealing element M70 are arranged in the axial direction DRa and correspond to the ten opening sections M41 to M49b, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. Specifically, in the sealing element M70 of the fifteenth embodiment, the through-hole slots M71 are formed in five rows in the axial direction DRa and in four columns in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0411] In the fifteenth embodiment, the through holes M71 are provided in an additional column on each side in the circumferential direction DRc with respect to the ten opening sections M41 to M49b, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the sealing element M70 contains the group of through holes M71 in a column on the first axis-center direction DRa1 side and the group of through holes M71 in a column on the second axis-center direction DRa2 side, which are formed at positions that are not opposite the ten opening sections M41 to M49b in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0412] The sections of the sealing element M70, which form the groups of through holes M71 in the two middle columns, surround the ten opening sections M41 to M49b and reduce the mixing of the fluid flowing through each of the ten opening sections M41 to M49b.

[0413] In the sealing element M70, the group of through holes M71 in a slit formed at the end section on the first circumferential DRc1 side, and the group of through holes M71 in a slit formed at the end section on the second circumferential DRc2 side, surround the fluid passage that does not face the ten opening sections M41 to M49b. Thus, the sealing element M70 seals the fluid passage in which the group of through holes M71 in a slit formed at the end section on each of the first circumferential DRc1 side and the second circumferential DRc2 side does not face the ten opening sections M41 to M49b.

[0414] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 53, in the valve M60 of the fifteenth embodiment, a plurality of fluid passages M64 are formed corresponding to the ten opening sections M41 to M49b, wherein five opening sections are arranged in the axial direction DRa and the opening sections are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. In the valve outer wall section M61, an eleventh fluid passage M64k corresponding to the ninth fluid passage M64i in the fourteenth embodiment is formed below the plurality of fluid passages M64.

[0415] Specifically, the eleventh fluid passage M64k can span five opening sections that are adjacent either in the axial direction DRa or in the circumferential direction DRc. When it is positioned opposite the ten opening sections M41 to M49b by rotating the valve M60 in the circumferential direction DRc, the eleventh fluid passage M64k can be opposite the opening section of the second row and the opening section of the fourth row, or opposite the opening section of the second row up to the opening section of the fourth row.

[0416] Here, in the eleventh fluid passage M64k, when the second circumferential direction DRc2 is positioned facing the opening section of the first column, the first circumferential direction DRc1 side is not facing the ten opening sections M41 to M49b. Then, the eleventh fluid passage M64k allows the first fluid inlet M42 and the second fluid outlet M43, which are not adjacent to each other, to be connected via a section on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side that is not facing the ten openings M41 to M49b. Thus, the fluid control valve M1, as shown in Fig. Figure 54 illustrates that the fluid flowing from the first fluid inlet M42 into the valve M60 flows via the section of the eleventh fluid passage M64k on the first circumferential direction DRc1 side to the second fluid outlet M43.

[0417] When the fluid flowing from the second fluid inlet M44 to the second fluid outlet M43 flows, it bypasses the sections of the valve outer wall section M61 that face the ten opening sections M41 to M49b in the eleventh fluid passage M64k. The section that allows flow bypassing the section facing the ten opening sections M41 to M49b in the eleventh fluid passage M64k is a section that forms a gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the eleventh fluid passage M64k. This section, which forms the gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the eleventh fluid passage M64k, is surrounded by the section that forms the group of through-hole gaps M71 in a gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the sealing element M70.This leads to a reduction in the leakage of the fluid flowing from the gap between the outer circumferential surface M611 of the valve outer wall section M61 and the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 through the section that forms the gap on the first circumferential DRc1 side in the eleventh fluid passage M64k.

[0418] Other configurations of the fifteenth embodiment are similar to those of the fourteenth embodiment. As in the fourteenth embodiment, the fluid control valve M1 of the fifteenth embodiment can achieve an effect that is equivalent to or comparable with that of the fourteenth embodiment. (Sixteenth embodiment)

[0419] Next, a sixteenth embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 55 and Fig. 56. The sixteenth embodiment differs from the fourteenth embodiment in the shape of the M60 valve. Otherwise, the sixteenth embodiment is similar to the fourteenth embodiment. Therefore, the sixteenth embodiment mainly describes the parts that differ from the fourteenth embodiment, and the description of parts that are similar to those of the fourteenth embodiment can be omitted.

[0420] As in the Fig. 55 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 56, the valve M60 of the sixteenth embodiment includes an inner cylinder M67 that limits the size of the plurality of fluid passages M64 in the radial direction DRr. The inner cylinder M67 has a cylindrical shape and is designed such that its central axis is coaxial with the axis center CL.

[0421] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 56, the inner cylinder M67 extends from the end section on the first axis center direction DRa1 side to the end section on the second axis center direction DRa2 side along the axis center direction DRa within the valve M60. The inner cylinder M67 is essentially conical, with the outer diameter decreasing from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2. That is, the inner cylinder M67 is essentially conical, with the apex located on the side of the second axis center direction DRa2 and the base on the side of the first axis center direction DRa1. In other words, in the cross-section of the inner cylinder M67 orthogonal to the axis center CL, the distance from the axis center CL to the outer shell decreases from the first axis center direction DRa1 to the second axis center direction DRa2.

[0422] The inner cylinder M67 has a conical shape along the cylinder M11. That is, an outer surface M671, which forms the outer shell of the inner cylinder M67, is shaped along the side face of the conical shape similarly to the cylinder M11. In other words, the section of the outer surface M671 of the inner cylinder M67 that faces the inner circumferential surface M16 of the cylinder M11 is essentially parallel to the inner circumferential surface, and the radial distance DRr between the outer surface M671 and the inner circumferential surface M16 is essentially constant.

[0423] Here, the radial distance DRr between the outer side surface M671 and the inner circumferential surface M16 is defined as distance D. According to the sixteenth embodiment, the distance D of each of the first fluid passages M64a up to the tenth fluid passages M64j, which are formed in the section in one of the first row, the second row, the third row and the fourth row, is constant.

[0424] In the fourteenth embodiment, the radial distance DRr of each fluid passage from the first to the tenth fluid passage M64j, which are formed in the section in one of the first, second, third and fourth rows, decreases from the first axis center direction DRa1 towards the second axis center direction DRa2. For this reason, the flow path area decreases when the fluid flowing through each of the fluid passages from the first to the tenth fluid passage M64j flows in a different row in the axis center direction DRa, and a pressure drop may occur.

[0425] In contrast, in the sixteenth embodiment, since the distance D of each from the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j, which are formed in the section in one of the first row, the second row, the third row and the fourth row, is constant, the occurrence of a pressure loss due to a reduction of the flow path area can be reduced.

[0426] Other configurations of the sixteenth embodiment are similar to those of the fourteenth embodiment. As in the fourteenth embodiment, the fluid control valve M1 of the sixteenth embodiment can achieve an effect that is obtained through a configuration common to or equivalent to that of the fourteenth embodiment. (Seventeenth embodiment)

[0427] Next, a seventeenth embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. The seventeenth embodiment is described in sections 57 to 59. The seventeenth embodiment differs from the fourteenth embodiment in the method for attaching the drive unit M30 and the housing cover M20 to a housing M10. Otherwise, the seventeenth embodiment is similar to the fourteenth embodiment. Therefore, the seventeenth embodiment mainly describes the part that differs from the fourteenth embodiment, and the description of parts that are similar to those of the fourteenth embodiment can be omitted.

[0428] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 57, on the first axis center direction DRa1 side of the cylinder M11, in addition to the claw section M111 for attaching the housing cover M20, a housing screw hole M113 is provided, into which the screw element S for attaching the housing cover M20 is inserted.

[0429] The housing cover M20 contains the cover screw receptacle M26 for inserting the screw element S, which is inserted into the housing screw hole M113 provided in the cylinder M11. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 59, the center axes of the housing screw hole M113 and the cover screw receptacle M26 coincide. The housing cover M20 is attached and secured by the screw element S, which is inserted into the housing screw hole M113 and the cover screw receptacle M26. In other words, the housing cover M20 is attached to the cylinder M11 by a snap-fit ​​connection and is secured by the screw element S. Various screws, such as countersunk screws and sheet metal screws, can be used as the screw element S.

[0430] The drive unit M30 is attached to the housing cover M20 by the screw element S, which fastens the housing cover M20 to the cylinder M11. That is to say, the housing cover M20 and the drive unit M30 are attached and fixed to the cylinder M11 by the screw element S.

[0431] As described above, in the seventeenth embodiment the drive unit M30 and the housing cover M20 are attached and fixed to the housing M10 by the screw element S.

[0432] Accordingly, the number of parts required to mount and attach the drive unit M30 and the housing cover M20 to the housing M10 can be reduced.

[0433] Other configurations of the seventeenth embodiment are similar to those of the fourteenth embodiment. As in the fourteenth embodiment, the fluid control valve M1 of the seventeenth embodiment can achieve an effect that is equivalent to or comparable with that of the fourteenth embodiment. (Modification of the seventeenth embodiment)

[0434] In the seventeenth embodiment described above, an example was described in which the housing cover M20 is attached to the cylinder M11 by the snap lock and secured by the screw element S, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, if the housing cover M20 and the drive unit M30 are attached to the cylinder M11 by the screw element S, the housing cover M20 cannot be attached to the cylinder M11 by the snap lock as in the Fig. 60 and Fig. Figure 61 illustrates this. In this case, the fluid control valve M1 can have a configuration in which the cylinder M11 is not provided with the claw section M111 and the housing cover M20 is not provided with the engagement receiving section M25. (Eighteenth embodiment)

[0435] Next, an eighteenth embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 62. The eighteenth embodiment differs from the fourteenth embodiment in the method for installing the preload section M80. Otherwise, the eighteenth embodiment is similar to the fourteenth embodiment. Therefore, the eighteenth embodiment mainly describes the parts that differ from the fourteenth embodiment, and the description of parts that are similar to those of the fourteenth embodiment can be omitted.

[0436] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 62, a projecting section M114 is provided on the first axis-center direction DRa1 side of the valve M60 of the eighteenth embodiment, projecting in the direction of the first axis-center direction DRa1. The projecting section M114 is provided within the preload section M80, which is formed from a compression coil spring.

[0437] The spring guide M81 has an L-shaped cross-section parallel to the axis center CL and includes an inner surface in radial direction in sliding contact with the preceding section M114, which is provided on the first axis center direction DRa1 side of the valve M60, and a surface on the first axis center direction DRa1 side in sliding contact with the surface on the first axis center direction DRa1 side of the valve M60.

[0438] Accordingly, the spring guide M81 can reduce the positional displacement of the preload section M80 in the radial direction DRr and transfer the preload force of the preload section M80 to the valve M60.

[0439] Other configurations of the eighteenth embodiment are similar to those of the fourteenth embodiment. As in the fourteenth embodiment, the fluid control valve M1 of the eighteenth embodiment can achieve an effect that is obtained through a configuration common to or equivalent to that of the fourteenth embodiment. (Nineteenth embodiment)

[0440] The configuration of the fluid control valve of the nineteenth embodiment is the same as the configuration of the fluid control valve of the fourteenth embodiment, which is described with reference to the Fig. The nineteenth embodiment was described in sections 35 to 50, and therefore its description is omitted. The nineteenth embodiment exhibits the following effects.

[0441] The valve M60 of the nineteenth embodiment includes a flow path for directing the fluid flowing from one of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to one of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection. Furthermore, the valve M60 includes a flow path for directing the fluid flowing from any one of the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any two or more of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection. The valve M60 acts as a flow path that directs the fluid flowing from a plurality of inlets below the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to any one of the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage provides a connection.Furthermore, the M60 valve contains a flow path that directs the fluid flowing in from a plurality of inlets below the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47 to a plurality of outlets below the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48, with which the fluid passage enables a connection.

[0442] Accordingly, the fluid control valve M1 can achieve different types of fluid flow by rotating the valve M60, for example by allowing fluid flowing in from one fluid inlet to flow out of one or more fluid outlets, and by allowing fluid flowing in from a plurality of fluid inlets to flow out of one or more fluid outlets.

[0443] According to the nineteenth embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0444] (1) In the nineteenth embodiment, the rib M66, which separates adjacent fluid passages from the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j, is designed such that the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the adjacent sections, are formed continuously and in one piece.

[0445] This allows the size of the M60 valve to be reduced compared to a case where the M66 rib, which separates adjacent fluid passages, is not continuous and not integral.

[0446] (2) In the nineteenth embodiment, the eight opening sections M41 to M48 are formed in a grid pattern, and the first fluid outlet M41, the first fluid inlet M42, and the second fluid inlet M44 are provided at the end section on the first circumferential DRc1 side. The valve outer wall section M61 is formed with the ninth fluid passage M64i, which directs the fluid flowing in from the second fluid inlet M44 to the first fluid outlet M41, while bypassing sections facing the eight openings M41 to M48 in the valve outer wall section M61. The sealing element M70 surrounds the ninth fluid passage M64i at a position that does not face the eight opening sections M41 to M48 in the circumferential DRc direction.

[0447] Accordingly, the flow path can be formed by the ninth fluid passage M64i, which is positioned outside the eight opening sections M41 to M48 and is not directly connected to them. This means that the portion of the valve outer wall section M61 through which the fluid flows is not limited to the position facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48, thus increasing the degree of freedom in the fluid flow pattern. This allows for an increase in switching patterns at the time of switching from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, which are connected to the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0448] (3) In the nineteenth embodiment, the ninth fluid passage M64i enables a connection between the second fluid inlet M44 and the first fluid outlet M41, which are not adjacent to each other.

[0449] Accordingly, among the eight opening sections M41 to M48, the opening sections connected by the ninth fluid passage M64i are not limited to those opposite each other, thus increasing the degree of freedom in the nature of the fluid flow. This allows for an increase in the switching patterns at the time of switching from the first fluid inlet M42 to the fourth fluid inlet M47, which are connected to the first fluid outlet M41 to the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0450] (4) In the nineteenth embodiment, when the ninth fluid passage M64i is positioned opposite the first fluid inlet M42 to fourth fluid inlet M47 and the first fluid outlet M41 to fourth fluid outlet M48, the fluid flowing in from the first fluid inlet M42, the second fluid inlet M44 and the third fluid inlet M45 is directed to the fourth fluid outlet M48.

[0451] As described above, the ninth fluid passage M64i, which acts as a bypass flow path section by diverting the fluid away from the sections facing the eight opening sections M41 to M48, can be used for purposes other than bypass flow path. Therefore, the size of valve M60 can be reduced compared to a configuration where the ninth fluid passage M64i is used exclusively for the bypass flow path section.

[0452] (5) In the nineteenth embodiment, the valve M60 includes the closing section M65, which closes one of the eight opening sections M41 to M48.

[0453] Accordingly, the fluid control valve M1 can both prevent and allow fluid flow, thereby improving the degree of freedom in the type of fluid flow.

[0454] (6) In the nineteenth embodiment, the first fluid passage M64a to tenth fluid passage M64j are designed as ten cells in the valve outer wall section M61 if the flow path section of each column is a single-cell flow path section.

[0455] Accordingly, even if the M60 valve is rotated every two columns so that all sections facing the eight openings M41 to M48 are changed, five switching patterns can be ensured.

[0456] (7) In the nineteenth embodiment, the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc such that the first fluid passage M64a to the tenth fluid passage M64j, which are opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc, all change one column.

[0457] According to this, the rotation of the valve M60 changes the sections opposite the eight opening sections M41 to M48, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc, each one column, so that ten switching patterns can be ensured.

[0458] (8) In the nineteenth embodiment, through holes M71 are formed in the sealing element M70, wherein a plurality of through holes are arranged in the axial direction DRa and the through holes are arranged in a plurality of slots in the circumferential direction DRc. The number of through hole slots is specified as greater than the number of opening slots.

[0459] Accordingly, the sealing element M70 surrounds the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i when the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g and the ninth fluid passage M64i are positioned at locations that span the opening section at the end section in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0460] Therefore, even if the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g, and the ninth fluid passage M64i are positioned in locations that span the opening section at the end section in the circumferential direction DRc, it is possible to reduce the flow of fluid through these fluid passages between the valve outer wall section M61 and the cylinder M11. It is also possible to reduce the flow of fluid through the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g, and the ninth fluid passage M64i to the rear of the valve M60. Therefore, the rotational position of the valve M60 does not need to be adjusted so that the third fluid passage M64c, the seventh fluid passage M64g, and the ninth fluid passage M64i do not span the opening formed at the end section in the circumferential direction DRc.This means it is possible to reduce the flow of fluid to the rear of valve M60 without limiting the switching pattern of the fluid control valve M1, which is switched by adjusting the rotary position of valve M60. (Twentieth embodiment)

[0461] Next, a twentieth embodiment is described with reference to Fig. The present embodiment is described in sections 97 to 102B. It differs from the nineteenth embodiment in the shapes of the housing M10, the valve M60, and the sealing element M70. Otherwise, the twentieth embodiment is similar to the nineteenth embodiment. Therefore, the description of the twentieth embodiment mainly concerns the parts that differ from those of the nineteenth embodiment, and the description of parts similar to those of the nineteenth embodiment can be omitted.

[0462] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 97, the housing M10 of the twentieth embodiment is larger in the axial direction DRa than that of the nineteenth embodiment. That is, the cylinder M11 of the twentieth embodiment is larger in the axial direction DRa than the cylinder M11 of the nineteenth embodiment. The cylinder M11 of the twentieth embodiment has ten opening sections M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f. These ten opening sections M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f are arranged in a grid pattern, with five opening sections arranged in the axial direction DRa and the opening sections arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. The ten opening sections M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, M92f are formed in sections of the cylinder M11 in which the connection forming section M13 is provided.In the following, the ten aperture sections M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, M92f can be referred to as ten aperture sections M91a to M92f.

[0463] As in Fig. Figure 97 illustrates that ten opening sections M91a to M92f are formed in a grid pattern, with five opening sections arranged in the axis center direction DRa and the opening sections arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0464] In the twentieth embodiment, four of the ten opening sections M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, M92f allow the fluid to flow into the valve receiving chamber AS. Six of the ten opening sections M91a, M91b, M91c, M91d, M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, M92f allow the fluid to flow out of the housing M10. The opening sections M91a, M91b, M91c, and M91d for fluid inlet into the valve receiving chamber AS are referred to as first fluid inlet M91a, second fluid inlet M91b, third fluid inlet M91c, and fourth fluid inlet M91d, respectively. The six opening sections M92a, M92b, M92c, M92d, M92e, and M92f, through which the fluid exits the housing M10, are referred to as first fluid outlet M92a, second fluid outlet M92b, third fluid outlet M92c, fourth fluid outlet M92d, fifth fluid outlet M92e, and sixth fluid outlet M92f, respectively.

[0465] The first fluid inlet M91a, the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, and the fourth fluid inlet M91d are inlet ports for allowing fluid to flow into the valve receiving chamber AS. The first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, the third fluid outlet M92c, the fourth fluid outlet M92d, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f are outlet ports that allow the fluid flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS to flow out of the valve receiving chamber AS.

[0466] In the following, the first fluid inlet M91a, the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, and the fourth fluid inlet M91d can be referred to as first fluid inlet M91a to fourth fluid inlet M91d. The first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, the third fluid outlet M92c, the fourth fluid outlet M92d, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f can be referred to as first fluid outlet M92a to sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0467] In the twentieth embodiment, the first fluid inlet M91a, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, the second fluid inlet M91b, and the third fluid outlet M92c are arranged on the first circumferential direction (DRc1). Specifically, the first fluid inlet M91a, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, the second fluid inlet M91b, and the third fluid outlet M92c are arranged in the axial direction (DRa) from the second axial direction (DRa2) to the first axial direction (DRa1). The fourth fluid outlet M92d, the third fluid inlet M91c, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, the sixth fluid outlet M92f, and the fourth fluid inlet M91d are arranged on the second circumferential direction (DRc2).Specifically, the fourth fluid outlet M92d, the third fluid inlet M91c, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, the sixth fluid outlet M92f and the fourth fluid inlet M91d are arranged in the axis center direction DRa from the second axis center direction-DRa2 side to the first axis center direction-DRa1 side.

[0468] In the following, a group of opening sections containing the first fluid inlet M91a, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, the second fluid inlet M91b, and the third fluid outlet M92c is referred to as opening sections of the first column. A group of opening sections containing the fourth fluid outlet M92d, the third fluid inlet M91c, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, the sixth fluid outlet M92f, and the fourth fluid inlet M91d can be referred to as opening sections of the second column.

[0469] A group of opening sections containing the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d can be referred to as the first-row opening section, and a group of opening sections containing the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c can be referred to as the second-row opening section. A group of opening sections containing the second fluid outlet M92b and the fifth fluid outlet M92e can be referred to as the third-row opening section, and a group of opening sections containing the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f can be referred to as the fourth-row opening section. A group of opening sections containing the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d can be referred to as the fifth-row opening section.

[0470] In the sealing element M70 of the twentieth embodiment, if the size in the axial direction DRa of the cylinder M11 is increased, the size in the axial direction DRa increases compared to the nineteenth embodiment, as shown in Fig. Figure 98 illustrates this. The five through holes M71 formed in the sealing element M70 are arranged in the axial direction DRa and correspond to the ten opening sections M91a to M92f, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. Specifically, in the sealing element M70 of the twentieth embodiment, the through holes M71 are formed in five rows in the axial direction DRa and in four columns in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0471] In the twentieth embodiment, the through-hole slots M71 are provided in an additional column on each side in the circumferential direction DRc with respect to the ten opening sections M91a to M92f, which are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. That is, the sealing element M70 contains the group of through-holes M71 in a column on the first axis-center-direction-DRa1 side and the group of through-holes M71 in a column on the second axis-center-direction-DRa2 side, which are formed at positions that are not opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0472] The sections of the sealing element M70, which form the groups of through holes M71 in the two central columns, surround the ten opening sections M91a to M92f and reduce the mixing of the fluid flowing through each of the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. In the sealing element M70, the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on the first circumferential-direction DRc1 side, and the group of through holes M71 in a column formed at the end section on the second circumferential-direction DRc2 side, surround the fluid passage that does not face the ten opening sections M91a to M92f.Thus, the sealing element M70 seals the fluid passage in which the group of through holes M71 in a gap formed at the end section on each of the first circumferential direction-DRc1 side and the second circumferential direction-DRc2 side is not opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f.

[0473] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 99, the valve M60 of the twentieth embodiment has a plurality of fluid passages M68 corresponding to the ten opening sections M91a to M92f, wherein five opening sections are arranged in the axial direction DRa and the opening sections are arranged in two columns in the circumferential direction DRc. Furthermore, the valve outer wall section M61 is formed with 11 closing sections M69, which prevent the fluid from flowing into the valve receiving chamber AS.

[0474] Specifically, as in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 100, the valve outer wall section M61 is formed with 15 fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, and M68s through which the fluid flows. Eleven closure sections M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, and M69k are formed in the valve outer wall section M61. The 15 fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, M68s and the 11 closure sections M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, M69k are designed to face each of the ten opening sections M91a to M92f when the valve M60 rotates. The rib M66 separates the 15 fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, M68s and the 11 closure sections M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, M69k from each other.

[0475] In the following, the 15 fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, M68s can be referred to as 15 fluid passages M68a to M68s. The 15 fluid passages M68a, M68b, M68c, M68d, M68e, M68f, M68g, M68h, M68i, M68j, M68k, M68m, M68n, M68r, M68s are designated as first fluid passage M68a, second fluid passage M68b, third fluid passage M68c, fourth fluid passage M68d, fifth fluid passage M68e, sixth fluid passage M68f, seventh fluid passage M68g, eighth fluid passage M68h, ninth fluid passage M68i, tenth fluid passage M68j, eleventh fluid passage M68k, twelfth fluid passage M68m, thirteenth fluid passage M68n, fourteenth fluid passage M68r and fifteenth fluid passage M68s.The first fluid passage M68a, the second fluid passage M68b, the third fluid passage M68c, the fourth fluid passage M68d, the fifth fluid passage M68e, the sixth fluid passage M68f, the seventh fluid passage M68g, the eighth fluid passage M68h, the ninth fluid passage M68i, the tenth fluid passage M68j, the eleventh fluid passage M68k, the twelfth fluid passage M68m, the thirteenth fluid passage M68n, the fourteenth fluid passage M68r and the fifteenth fluid passage M68s can be designated as first fluid passage M68a to fifteenth fluid passage M68s.

[0476] The 11 shutter sections M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, M69k can be referred to as 11 shutter sections M69a to M69k. The 11 locking sections M69a, M69b, M69c, M69d, M69e, M69f, M69g, M69h, M69i, M69j, M69k are designated as first locking section M69a, second locking section M69b, third locking section M69c, fourth locking section M69d, fifth locking section M69e, sixth locking section M69f, seventh locking section M69g, eighth locking section M69h, ninth locking section M69i, tenth locking section M69j and eleventh locking section M69k.The first shutter section M69a, the second shutter section M69b, the third shutter section M69c, the fourth shutter section M69d, the fifth shutter section M69e, the sixth shutter section M69f, the seventh shutter section M69g, the eighth shutter section M69h, the ninth shutter section M69i, the tenth shutter section M69j and the eleventh shutter section M69k can be designated as first shutter section M69a to eleventh shutter section M69k.

[0477] In the valve M60, one of the first fluid passages M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s and one of the first closure section M69a to the eleventh closure section M69k, which are positioned on the front, are facing the first fluid inlet M91a to the fourth fluid inlet M91d and the first fluid outlet M92a to the sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0478] Here, the first fluid passage M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s are configured such that at least one of them, from the first fluid inlet M91a to the fourth fluid inlet M91d, and at least one of them, from the first fluid outlet M92a to the sixth fluid outlet M92f, are interconnected. Thus, the first fluid passage M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s can direct the fluid flowing from a connected fluid inlet of the first fluid inlet M91a to the fourth fluid inlet M91d to a connected fluid outlet of the first fluid outlet M92a to the sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0479] When facing one of the first fluid inlets M91a up to the fourth fluid inlets M91d, the first closure section M69a up to the eleventh closure section M69k prevents the flow of fluid from the facing inlet into the valve receiving chamber AS. When facing one of the first closure sections M69a up to the eleventh closure sections M69k, the first fluid outlet M92a up to the sixth fluid outlet M92f prevents the flow of fluid from the opposite outlets.

[0480] The first fluid passage M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s and the first closure section M69a to the eleventh closure section M69k are surrounded by the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b.

[0481] Specific shapes and forming positions of the first fluid passage M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s and of the first closure section M69a to the eleventh closure section M69k are described with reference to Fig. 100 and Fig. 101 described. Each in the Fig. 100 and Fig. Figure 101 illustrates valve M60, showing the front of the valve M60 when the valve M60 is rotated circumferentially DRc, so that the corresponding fluid passages and closure sections facing the ten openings M91a to M92f are visible. Fig. 100 and Fig. Figure 101 schematically shows the grid patterns as sections in which the first fluid passage M68a to the fifteenth fluid passage M68s and the first closure section M69a to the eleventh closure section M69k are formed when the valve M60 is developed into a grid pattern in the circumferential direction DRc. Fig. 100 and Fig. In diagram 101, the grid indicates rib M66. A solid line in the grid indicates a section where rib M66 is present. A dashed line indicates a section where rib M66 is not present.

[0482] The first fluid passage M68a through the fifteenth fluid passage M68s have shapes formed by combining multiple sections, each positioned in one of the first to fifth columns and one of the first to tenth columns. The first shutter section M69a through the tenth shutter section M69j correspond to a section positioned in one of the first to fifth columns and one of the first to tenth columns. Fig. The reference symbols indicating the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b have been omitted to make the drawing clearer.

[0483] The first fluid passage M68a has a shape formed by combining the sections in the second row and the first to third columns. The first fluid passage M68a, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, thereby positioning the first fluid passage M68a opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The first fluid passage M68a can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The first fluid passage M68a allows the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0484] In this case, between the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c, which are located next to each other, the third fluid inlet M91c corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the first fluid outlet M92a to the first adjacent outlet.

[0485] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the first fluid passage M68a at a location where the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the first fluid passage M68a, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c from other fluid inlets and outlets. The axial rib M66a is not formed in a position facing the axial partition M52, which separates the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c.

[0486] The second fluid passage M68b has a shape formed by combining the section in the third row and first column with the section in the fourth row and first column. The second fluid passage M68b, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, thereby positioning the second fluid passage M68b opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The second fluid passage M68b can be opposite the opening section of the third row and the opening section of the fourth row. The second fluid passage M68b allows the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.The second fluid passage M68b allows the fifth fluid outlet M92e and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent in the axis center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.

[0487] In this case, of the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b, which are arranged next to each other, the second fluid inlet M91b corresponds to the first adjacent inlet and the second fluid outlet M92b to the first adjacent outlet.

[0488] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the second fluid passage M68b at a location where the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the second fluid passage M68b, face the partition M50, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the axial partition M52, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the second fluid outlet M92b.

[0489] The third fluid passage M68c has a shape formed by combining the sections in the fifth row and the first to third columns. This third fluid passage M68c can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the third fluid passage M68c opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The third fluid passage M68c can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The third fluid passage M68c allows the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0490] In this case, of the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d, which are adjacent to each other, the fourth fluid inlet M91d corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the third fluid outlet M92c to the first adjacent outlet.

[0491] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the third fluid passage M68c at a location where the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the third fluid passage M68c, face the partition M50, which separates the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d from other fluid inlets and outlets. The axial rib M66a is not formed in a position facing the axial partition M52, which separates the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d.

[0492] The fourth fluid passage M68d has a shape formed by combining the section in the first row and second column with the section in the first row and third column. The fourth fluid passage M68d, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc and positions the fourth fluid passage M68d opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The fourth fluid passage M68d can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The fourth fluid passage M68d allows the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0493] In this case, of the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d, which are adjacent to each other, the first fluid inlet M91a corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the fourth fluid outlet M92d to the first adjacent outlet.

[0494] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the fourth fluid passage M68d at a location where the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the fourth fluid passage M68d, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d from other fluid inlets and outlets. The axial rib M66a is not formed in a position facing the axial partition M52, which separates the first fluid inlet M91a and the fourth fluid outlet M92d.

[0495] The fifth fluid passage M68e has a shape formed by combining the section in the fourth row and second column with the section in the fourth row and third column. The fifth fluid passage M68e, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the fifth fluid passage M68e opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The fifth fluid passage M68e can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The fifth fluid passage M68e allows the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0496] In this case, of the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent, the second fluid inlet M91b corresponds to the first adjacent inlet and the sixth fluid outlet M92f to the first adjacent outlet.

[0497] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the fifth fluid passage M68e at a location where the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f are connected. The axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the fifth fluid passage M68e, face the partition M50, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f from other fluid inlets and outlets. The axial rib M66a is not formed at a location facing the axial partition M52, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0498] The sixth fluid passage M68f has a shape formed by combining the sections in the second to fourth rows and the fourth column, the section in the second row and the fifth column, and the section in the fourth row and the fifth column. The sixth fluid passage M68f, configured in this way, can span three opening sections in the axial direction DRa and can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The ninth fluid passage M68i can span five opening sections, which are adjacent to each other either in the axial direction DRa or in the circumferential direction DRc.

[0499] Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, thereby positioning the sixth fluid passage M68f opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The sixth fluid passage M68f can be opposite the opening section of the second row up to the opening section of the fourth row. The sixth fluid passage M68f allows the third fluid inlet M91c, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent in the DRa axis direction, to be interconnected. The sixth fluid passage M68f also allows the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent in either the DRa axis direction or the DRc axis direction, to be interconnected.Furthermore, the sixth fluid passage M68f enables a connection between the second fluid inlet M91b and the first fluid outlet M92a, which are not adjacent in the axis center direction DRa.

[0500] In this case, under the third fluid inlet M91c, the fifth fluid outlet M92e, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent to each other, the third fluid inlet M91c corresponds to the second adjacent inlet, and the fifth fluid outlet M92e and the sixth fluid outlet M92f correspond to the second adjacent outlets. Under the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent to each other, the second fluid inlet M91b and the third fluid inlet M91c correspond to the fourth adjacent inlets. Below the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are arranged next to each other, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f correspond to the fourth adjacent outlets.

[0501] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the sixth fluid passage M68f at a location where the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f are interconnected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the sixth fluid passage M68f, face the partition M50, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b, the third fluid inlet M91c, the first fluid outlet M92a, the second fluid outlet M92b, and the sixth fluid outlet M92f from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b, the first fluid outlet M92a and the second fluid outlet M92b.Furthermore, the axial rib M66a is not formed at every position opposite the axial partition M52, which separates the first fluid outlet M92a and the third fluid inlet M91c, and opposite the axial partition M52, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0502] It is also assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc, with the sixth fluid passage M68f positioned at a location where the second fluid inlet M91b and the first fluid outlet M92a, which are not adjacent in the axial direction DRa, are connected. At this point, in the axial-side partition M52, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed at a position facing the axial-side partition M52 on the side where the sixth fluid outlet M92f is not present circumferentially DRc (i.e., the first circumferential DRc1 side). In the axial-side partition M52, which separates the second fluid outlet M92b, the axial-side rib M66a is not formed in a position opposite the axial-side partition M52 on the side where the third fluid inlet M91c is not present in the circumferential direction DRc (i.e., the first circumferential direction DRc1 side).

[0503] The seventh fluid passage M68g has a shape formed by combining the sections in the fifth row and the fifth to eighth columns. The seventh fluid passage M68g, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the seventh fluid passage M68g opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The seventh fluid passage M68g can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The seventh fluid passage M68g allows the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0504] In this case, of the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d, which are adjacent to each other, the fourth fluid inlet M91d corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the third fluid outlet M92c to the first adjacent outlet.

[0505] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the seventh fluid passage M68g at a location where the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the seventh fluid passage M68g, face the partition M50, which separates the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d from other fluid inlets and outlets. The axial rib M66a is not formed in a position facing the axial partition M52, which separates the third fluid outlet M92c and the fourth fluid inlet M91d.

[0506] The eighth fluid passage M68h has a shape formed by combining the section in the first row and sixth column with the section in the second row and sixth column. The eighth fluid passage M68h, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, thus positioning the eighth fluid passage M68h opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The eighth fluid passage M68h can be opposite the opening section of the first row and the opening section of the second row. The eighth fluid passage M68h allows the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.The eighth fluid passage M68h allows the third fluid inlet M91c and the fourth fluid outlet M92d, which are adjacent in the axis center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.

[0507] In this case, of the first adjacent fluid inlet M91a and the first adjacent fluid outlet M92a, the first fluid inlet M91a corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the first fluid outlet M92a to the first adjacent outlet. Of the third adjacent fluid inlet M91c and the fourth adjacent fluid outlet M92d, the third adjacent fluid inlet M91c corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the fourth adjacent fluid outlet M92d to the first adjacent outlet.

[0508] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the eighth fluid passage M68h at a location where the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the eighth fluid passage M68h, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M91a from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a.

[0509] The ninth fluid passage M68i has a shape formed by combining the sections in the fourth row and the sixth to eighth columns. The ninth fluid passage M68i, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates in the circumferential direction DRc, positioning the ninth fluid passage M68i opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The ninth fluid passage M68i can span two opening sections in the circumferential direction DRc. The ninth fluid passage M68i allows the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction DRc, to be connected to each other.

[0510] In this case, with the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f located next to each other, the second fluid inlet M91b corresponds to the first adjacent inlet and the sixth fluid outlet M92f to the first adjacent outlet.

[0511] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the ninth fluid passage M68i at a location where the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f are connected. The axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the ninth fluid passage M68i, face the partition M50, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f from other fluid inlets and outlets. The axial rib M66a is not formed at a location facing the axial partition M52, which separates the second fluid inlet M91b and the sixth fluid outlet M92f.

[0512] The tenth fluid passage M68j has a shape formed by combining the section in the first row and seventh column with the section in the second row and seventh column. The tenth fluid passage M68j, configured in this way, can span two opening sections in the axis-center direction DRa. Here, it is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially in the DRc direction, positioning the tenth fluid passage M68j opposite the ten opening sections M91a to M92f. The tenth fluid passage M68j can be opposite the opening section of the first row and the opening section of the second row. The tenth fluid passage M68j allows the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a, which are adjacent in the axis-center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.The tenth fluid passage M68j allows the third fluid inlet M91c and the fourth fluid outlet M92d, which are adjacent in the axis center direction DRa, to be connected to each other.

[0513] In this case, of the first adjacent fluid inlet M91a and the first adjacent fluid outlet M92a, the first fluid inlet M91a corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the first fluid outlet M92a to the first adjacent outlet. Of the third adjacent fluid inlet M91c and the fourth adjacent fluid outlet M92d, the third adjacent fluid inlet M91c corresponds to the first adjacent inlets and the fourth adjacent fluid outlet M92d to the first adjacent outlet.

[0514] It is assumed that the valve M60 rotates circumferentially DRc and positions the tenth fluid passage M68j at a location where the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a are connected. At this point, the axial rib M66a and the circumferential rib M66b, which separate the tenth fluid passage M68j, face the partition M50, which separates the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a from other fluid inlets and outlets. The circumferential rib M66b is not formed in a position facing the circumferential partition M51, which separates the first fluid inlet M91a and the first fluid outlet M92a.

[0515] The eleventh fluid passage M68k has a shape formed by combining the sections in the first to third rows and the eighth column. This eleventh fluid passage M68k can span three opening sections in the axis-center direction...

Claims

[1] Fluid control valve comprising: a housing (10) comprising a cylinder (11), a base (12) on one side in the axial direction of the cylinder and a connection (13) penetrating an outer wall (14) and an inner wall (16) of the cylinder; a valve (40) which is rotatable within the housing about a predetermined axis center (CL) and has a flow path (44) which is recessed from an outside of a side wall (41) in a radial direction towards the axis center; a sealing element (50) which is provided between an inner wall of the housing and the valve and has a surface (51) on a housing side in contact with a periphery (131) of the connection in the inner wall of the housing and a surface (52) on a valve side in sliding contact with the side wall of the valve; a cover (20) that closes an opening of the cylinder of the housing on another side in the axial direction; and a cover-side regulating section (26) which is provided inside the cover and configured to control the movement of the sealing element inwards in the radial direction and to the other side in the axial direction of the cylinder. [2] Fluid control valve according to claim 1, wherein the housing-side regulating section is configured to control the deformation of the sealing element from a curved surface along the inner wall of the cylinder of the housing and the side wall of the valve. [3] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a housing-side regulating section (70) provided at a bottom of the housing and configured to control the movement of the sealing element inwards in the radial direction and to one side in the axial direction of the cylinder, and configured to control the deformation of the sealing element from a curved surface along the inner wall of the cylinder or the side wall of the valve. [4] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a circumferential regulating section (71) which is provided in the cylinder of the housing and is configured to control the movement of the sealing element to one side and to the other side in the circumferential direction of the cylinder. [5] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover-side regulating section includes an inclined section (28) which is inclined inwards in the radial direction from the other side to the one side in the axial direction of the cylinder. [6] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in the sealing element a material of a section on the housing side differs from a material of a section on the valve side. [7] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the side wall of the valve is formed along a surface with a conical shape, and the fluid control valve further features: a preloading element (60) that preloads the valve towards a vertex of the conical shape and is configured both during rotation and during stopping of the valve to keep the side wall of the valve and the sealing element in sliding contact with each other and to keep the inner wall of the housing and the sealing element in contact with each other. [8] Fluid control valve according to claim 7, wherein an internal angle (θ) formed by a generating (G) of the conical shape along which the side wall of the valve extends and the axis center of the valve is 5 degrees or more. [9] Fluid control valve according to claim 7, wherein the inner wall of the cylinder of the housing is formed along a surface with a conical shape which is similar to and coaxial with the conical shape along which the side wall of the valve extends. [10] Fluid control valve according to claim 7, wherein the valve has a plurality of flow paths along an axis center direction, and a deep section (440) on an axis mid-side of the majority of the flow paths is formed along a side surface with a conical shape that is similar to and coaxial with the conical shape along which the side wall of the valve extends. [11] Fluid control valve according to claim 7, wherein the valve has a plurality of flow paths along an axis center direction, and a distance (D6) between the side wall and a deep section on the axis mid-side is uniform from each of the majority of the flow paths. [12] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in a state in which the sealing element has been removed from the housing, the sealing element has a planar shape or deforms into a shape that is closer to a plane than in a state in which the sealing element is mounted on the housing. [13] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in a state in which the sealing element has been removed from the housing and is in a planar state, a ratio of L( lN ) ≤ L( OUT ) applies, where a length in the circumferential direction of the valve L IN is when a surface (51) of the sealing element facing the valve side is mounted on the housing, and a length L in the circumferential direction of the housing OUT is when a surface (52) of the sealing element facing the housing side is mounted on the housing. [14] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover is attached to the housing by a snap connection (21). [15] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the valve, the sealing element and the cover are configured so that they can be removed from the housing in an axial direction from the other side of the housing, the valve includes an input shaft (45) which projects axially from an other-side end face and receives a torque, and the cover has an insertion hole (22) through which the input shaft is inserted, and a shaft sealing element (24) which is provided inside the insertion hole and is configured to prevent fluid leakage from a gap between the inner wall of the insertion hole and the input shaft. [16] Fluid control valve according to claim 15, further comprising: an actuator (30) which is provided on the other side of the cover and is configured to exert a torque on the input shaft of the valve, wherein the actuator and the cover are attached to the housing by the same screw (31). [17] Fluid control valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the valve includes a stopper (49) which projects axially from a one-sided end face at a position away from the center of the axis, and the housing contains a stopper contact section (19) that accommodates the stopper of the valve. [18] Fluid control valve according to claim 17, wherein the stopper contact section is contained in the bottom of the housing without being provided in the cover.

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