Multi-way valve and thermal management system

Abstract

Multi-way valve (1), wherein the multi-way valve (1) comprises: a valve body (10) having several valve openings; and a valve core (20) which is arranged in the valve body (10) and is rotatable relative to the valve body (10) between several different operating positions, wherein the valve core (20) is a ball valve core, characterized in that in different operating positions of the valve core (20) at least two of the multiple valve openings can be brought into communication with each other, and that the multiple valve openings are aligned in the same direction.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a multi-way valve and a thermal management system comprising the multi-way valve. State of the art

[0002] In a vehicle's thermal management system, the switching and control of fluid circuits is typically achieved through the interaction of multiple check valves and / or three-way valves with piping. However, this not only complicates installation but also increases the structural complexity of the vehicle's thermal management system, making it difficult to control and requiring a large amount of space. To overcome the above disadvantages, several multi-way valves are available on the market. However, when the multi-way valve is installed in the vehicle's thermal management system, multiple valve openings of the multi-way valve cannot be directly connected or communicated with a flow channel plate. Additional piping is required for the connection, which makes the installation of the multi-way valve extremely difficult.

[0003] In addition, the expert strives to develop a novel multi-way valve that not only increases the degree of integration and reduces costs, but also solves the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art. Disclosure of the utility model

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a multi-port valve that can replace the provision of multiple check valves and / or three-port valves in the prior art, realize switching between different operating modes, and increase the degree of integration of the product. Furthermore, by aligning multiple valve openings of the multi-port valve in the same direction, it is possible to directly connect the multi-port valve to an external component (such as a flow channel plate) by plug-in connection / coupling, without connecting through additional piping. This simplifies / eliminates the piping layout, optimizes the system structure, facilitates assembly, and saves assembly time.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a multi-way valve. The multi-way valve comprises: a valve body having a plurality of valve openings; and a valve core disposed within the valve body and rotatable relative to the valve body between a plurality of different operating positions. The valve core is a ball valve core, wherein in different operating positions of the valve core, at least two of the plurality of valve openings can be brought into communication with each other, and wherein the plurality of valve openings are oriented in the same direction.

[0006] The multi-way valve according to the present disclosure may also include one or more of the following features individually or in combination.

[0007] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that the plurality of valve openings are arranged in the same mounting plane.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that the plurality of valve openings comprise a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets, and that the valve body has a valve chamber for receiving the valve core, wherein a plurality of communication openings corresponding to the plurality of fluid outlets are formed in a side wall of the valve chamber.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that the communication openings are in fluid communication with the fluid outlets via channels.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of fluid outlets comprises a first fluid outlet, a second fluid outlet, and a third fluid outlet, and the plurality of communication openings comprises: a first communication opening in communication with the first fluid outlet via a first channel; a second communication opening in communication with the second fluid outlet via a second channel; and a third communication opening in communication with the third fluid outlet via a third channel.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that communication opening axes of the first communication opening and the third communication opening overlap with each other, and that the communication opening axis of the second communication opening runs perpendicular to the communication opening axis of the first communication opening.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that the valve core is designed in the form of a spherical step and has a top wall, a bottom wall and a spherical side wall which connects the top wall and the bottom wall to one another, and that the valve core comprises a first flow channel and a second flow channel which are in communication with one another, wherein the first flow channel comprises a first flow channel opening in the spherical side wall and the second flow channel comprises a second flow channel opening in the bottom wall.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that the valve core has an escape space, wherein the escape space is located in the first flow channel, wherein the escape space in the valve core has a first boundary and a second boundary, and wherein the first boundary and the second boundary enclose an angle of 150 degrees to 180 degrees.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that the first communication opening, the second communication opening and the third communication opening are arranged distributed at the same angle around an axis of the fluid inlet.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that the valve core is designed in the form of a spherical step and has a top wall, a bottom wall and a spherical side wall which connects the top wall and the bottom wall to one another, and that the valve core comprises a first flow channel and a second flow channel which are in communication with one another, wherein the first flow channel comprises a first flow channel opening in the spherical side wall and the second flow channel comprises a second flow channel opening in the bottom wall.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that the valve core has an escape space, wherein the escape space is located in the first flow channel, wherein the escape space in the valve core has a first boundary and a second boundary, and wherein the first boundary and the second boundary enclose an angle of 120 degrees.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that in a first operating position of the valve core, the multi-way valve is in a first operating mode, wherein in the first operating mode: the first flow channel opening of the first flow channel is in communication with the first fluid outlet and the second flow channel opening of the second flow channel is in communication with the fluid inlet in order to bring the first fluid outlet into communication with the fluid inlet.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that in a second operating position of the valve core, the multi-way valve is in a second operating mode, wherein in the second operating mode: the first flow channel opening of the first flow channel is in communication with the third fluid outlet and the second flow channel opening of the second flow channel is in communication with the fluid inlet in order to bring the third fluid outlet into communication with the fluid inlet.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that in a third operating position of the valve core, the multi-way valve is in a third operating mode, wherein in the third operating mode: the first flow channel opening of the first flow channel is in communication with the first fluid outlet and the second fluid outlet and the second flow channel opening of the second flow channel is in communication with the fluid inlet in order to bring the first fluid outlet and the second fluid outlet into communication with the fluid inlet, and wherein in the third operating mode, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet and the second fluid outlet can be adjusted by adjusting an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening and the first communication opening or the second communication opening.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that in a fourth operating position of the valve core, the multi-way valve is in a fourth operating mode, wherein in the fourth operating mode: the first flow channel opening of the first flow channel is in communication with the second fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet and the second flow channel opening of the second flow channel is in communication with the fluid inlet in order to bring the second fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet into communication with the fluid inlet, and wherein in the fourth operating mode, a flow rate of the second fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet can be adjusted by adjusting an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening and the second communication opening or the third communication opening.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that in a fifth operating position of the valve core, the multi-way valve is in a fifth operating mode, wherein in the fifth operating mode: the first flow channel opening of the first flow channel is in communication with the first fluid outlet, the second fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet and the second flow channel opening of the second flow channel is in communication with the fluid inlet in order to bring the first fluid outlet, the second fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet into communication with the fluid inlet, and wherein in the fifth operating mode, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet can be adjusted by adjusting an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening and the first communication opening or the third communication opening.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that in a fifth operating position of the valve core, the multi-way valve is in a fifth operating mode, wherein in the fifth operating mode: the first flow channel opening of the first flow channel is in communication with the second fluid outlet and the second flow channel opening of the second flow channel is in communication with the fluid inlet in order to bring the second fluid outlet into communication with the fluid inlet.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, it is provided that in a sixth operating position of the valve core, the multi-way valve is in a sixth operating mode, wherein in the sixth operating mode: the first flow channel opening of the first flow channel is in communication with the first fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet and the second flow channel opening of the second flow channel is in communication with the fluid inlet in order to bring the first fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet into communication with the fluid inlet, and wherein in the sixth operating mode, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet and the third fluid outlet can be adjusted by adjusting an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening and the first communication opening or the third communication opening.

[0024] The present disclosure further provides a thermal management system. The thermal management system comprises: a flow channel plate; and a protruding multi-way valve, wherein a plurality of fluid outlets and a fluid inlet of the multi-way valve are plugged onto the flow channel plate. Short description of the characters Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a multi-way valve according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the multi-way valve according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure from a different angle; Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a valve body according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the valve body according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure from a different angle; Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a valve core according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of the valve core according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure from a different angle; Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of the valve core according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure in a third viewing angle; Fig. 8 shows a schematic sectional view of the valve core according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of an assembly of the valve core according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure in the valve body; Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an arrangement of the valve core according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, a sealing member, and a positioning member for the sealing member; Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of a multi-way valve according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure after omitting an actuator; Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of a flow state of the multi-way valve according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure in a first operating mode, wherein the valve core is in a first operating position; Fig. 13 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure in a second operating mode, wherein the valve core is in a second operating position; Fig. 14 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure in a third operating mode, wherein the valve core is in a third operating position; Fig. 15 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure in a fourth operating mode, wherein the valve core is in a fourth operating position; Fig. 16 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure in a fifth operating mode, wherein the valve core is in a fifth operating position; Fig. 17 shows a perspective view of the multi-way valve according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 18 shows a perspective view of the valve body according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 19 shows a plan view of the valve body according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 20 shows a perspective view of the valve core according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 21 shows a schematic sectional view of the valve core according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 22 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure in the fifth operating mode, wherein the valve core is in the fifth operating position; Fig. 23 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure in a sixth operating mode, wherein the valve core is in a sixth operating position; and Fig. 24 shows a perspective view of a thermal management system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed embodiments

[0025] The embodiments of the present disclosure are explained below through specific detailed embodiments. The other advantages and effects of the present disclosure will be readily understood by those skilled in the art from the contents disclosed in this specification.

[0026] It should be noted that the structures, scales, sizes, etc. shown in the accompanying drawings in this specification only interact with the contents disclosed in the specification to make them available to and read by those skilled in the art, without serving as limiting conditions for the implementation of the present disclosure. As such, they have no essential significance. Any modification of the structures, changes in scales, or adjustments of sizes are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure that can be covered by the disclosed technical content, without affecting the effect and purpose of the present disclosure to be achieved.

[0027] To simplify the description, components commonly used in this field are simplified or omitted from the drawings of the present disclosure. These omitted or simplified components do not impair the understanding of the present disclosure by those skilled in the art.

[0028] The present disclosure provides a multi-way valve that can be used for a thermal management system. The detailed embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained in more detail below with reference to the individual accompanying drawings.

[0029] See Fig. 1 to 7. A multi-way valve 1 comprises a valve body 10 and a valve core 20 located within the valve body 10 and rotatable relative to the valve body 10 between a plurality of different operating positions. The valve body 10 has a plurality of valve openings, and the plurality of valve openings are arranged in the same mounting plane 100. This arrangement allows the plurality of valve openings of the multi-way valve 1 to be directly coupled into communication with an external component (such as a flow channel plate). This simplifies the piping layout and optimizes the system structure, and avoids the problem of complicating assembly by using additional piping to connect the external component.In different operating positions of the valve core 20, at least two of the plurality of valve openings can be brought into communication with each other, thus realizing the switching of the fluid circuits (or the change of the operating modes), which leads to simple control, simple assembly and thus simplified structure of the lines, increased degree of integration and reduced space requirement.

[0030] See Fig. 1 to 4. The plurality of valve openings of the valve body 10 specifically comprise a fluid inlet V4 and a plurality of fluid outlets. The valve body 10 has a valve chamber for accommodating the valve core 20, wherein a plurality of communication openings corresponding to the plurality of fluid outlets are formed in a side wall of the valve chamber, and wherein the respective communication openings are in fluid communication with the fluid outlets via channels. The fluid inlet V4, which passes through the bottom wall, is formed in the center of a bottom wall of the valve chamber.In one embodiment, it is provided that the plurality of fluid outlets can comprise a first fluid outlet V1, a second fluid outlet V2 and a third fluid outlet V3, wherein the first fluid outlet V1, the fluid inlet V4 and the third fluid outlet V3 are arranged approximately in the same straight line (such as a first straight line) and the second fluid outlet V2 and the fluid inlet V4 are arranged in a different straight line (such as a second straight line), and wherein the second straight line runs perpendicular to the first straight line, so that the plurality of valve openings are approximately T-shaped.The plurality of communication openings comprise a first communication opening 11, a second communication opening 12 and a third communication opening 13, wherein the first communication opening 11 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 via a first channel, the second communication opening 12 is in communication with the second fluid outlet V2 via a second channel and the third communication opening 13 is in communication with the third fluid outlet V3 via a third channel, whereby the first fluid outlet to the third fluid outlet V1, V2, V3 can be brought into communication with the valve chamber.

[0031] See further Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. The first communication opening 11 is directed directly toward the third communication opening 13, and a communication opening axis of the first communication opening 11 overlaps with a communication opening axis of the third communication opening 13. The second communication opening 12 is arranged approximately in the central axis (line of symmetry) of the first communication opening 11 and the second communication opening 13, and the communication opening axis of the second communication opening 12 is perpendicular to the communication opening axis of the first communication opening and the third communication opening 11, 13.

[0032] Combined with Fig. 3 and Fig. 11, an opening is formed on a top surface of the valve body 10 to facilitate insertion of the valve core 20 into the interior of the valve body 10 through the opening. Accordingly, the multi-way valve 1 may further comprise a valve body cover 50 for closing the opening of the valve body 10. The valve body cover 50 may be connected to the top surface of the valve body 10 by a locking element such as a screw to firmly mount the valve core 20 in the valve body 10.

[0033] See Fig. 5 to 7. The valve core 20 can be a ball valve core. In particular, the valve core 20 can be designed approximately in the shape of a spherical step and is rotatable relative to the valve body 10. The valve core 20 in the shape of a spherical step has a top wall, a bottom wall, and a spherical side wall that connects the top wall and the bottom wall. The valve core 20 comprises a first flow channel 21 and a second flow channel 22 for bringing various valve openings of the valve body 10 into communication with one another and thus forming a fluid circuit. The first flow channel 21 can represent an open chamber in the valve core 20, and the chamber has a first flow channel opening 210 in the spherical side wall for being brought into communication with at least one of the first, second, and third fluid outlets V1, V2, and V3.The second flow channel 22 may represent a channel in the valve core 20 that communicates with the first flow channel 21, and the second flow channel 22 has a second flow channel opening 220 in the bottom wall of the valve core 20 for communicating with the fluid inlet V4. To ensure that the second flow channel 22 is always in communication with the fluid inlet V4 in various operating positions of the valve core 20, the present disclosure provides that the second flow channel opening 220 for the second flow channel 22 is formed, in particular, in the center of the bottom wall of the valve core 20. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, as long as the second flow channel opening 220 is always in communication with the fluid inlet V4.

[0034] See Fig. 8. In order to reduce the flow resistance of the fluid in the valve core 20, the valve core 20 can be provided with an escape space 200 in the first flow channel 21 to allow the fluid from the second flow channel 22 to escape into the valve core 20 and thus reduce the resistance of the fluid. In particular, the escape space 200 in the valve core has a first boundary 201 and a second boundary 202, wherein the first boundary 201 and the second boundary 202 enclose an angle α in the range of approximately 150 and 180 degrees. Preferably, the angle α can be in the range of approximately 160 degrees to 170 degrees. More preferably, the angle α can be approximately 160 degrees. It should be noted that an intersection of the first boundary 201 and the second boundary 202 can be rounded to further reduce the flow resistance. Of course, the present disclosure is not limited thereto as long as the first flow channel 21 is in communication with the second flow channel 22.

[0035] See Fig. 9. The multi-way valve 1 may further comprise at least one sealing element 40 arranged on the outer periphery of at least one of the first communication port 11, the second communication port 12, and the third communication port 13 to achieve a sealed connection between the valve body 10 and the valve core 20. In one embodiment, the multi-way valve 1 comprises three sealing elements 40, each arranged on the outer periphery of the first communication port 11, the second communication port 12, and the third communication port 13 to achieve sealed connections between the first fluid outlet V1, the second fluid outlet V2, the third fluid outlet V3, and respective flow channels of the valve core 20. Furthermore, it is not necessary to arrange a sealing element 40 in a position corresponding to the fluid inlet V4 in the valve chamber.Nevertheless, the problem of internal leakage caused by the flow of fluid between the valve core 20 and the valve body 10 is effectively avoided. At the same time, costs can be reduced, thus facilitating assembly. Furthermore, since no sealing element 40 is arranged in the position corresponding to the fluid inlet V4 in the valve chamber and the fluid inlet V4 is always in communication with the valve chamber, fluid is allowed to fully prevail at the upper and lower portions of the valve core 20 in the valve body 10, so that pressure in the axial direction on the valve core 20 is balanced by the fluid, thus reducing the rotational resistance of the valve core 20.

[0036] See Fig. 10. The multi-way valve 1 may further comprise sealing member positioning members 41 for positioning the sealing members 40 so that the sealing members 40 are fixed to the outer periphery of the first communication port 11, the second communication port 12, and the third communication port 13, in order to avoid the problem that the sealing members 40 assume incorrect positions upon rotation of the valve core 20, thereby causing internal fluid leakage.

[0037] The above embodiments are primarily described using the example of a multi-way valve 1 comprising a sealing element 40, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the multi-way valve 1 may also not comprise a sealing element 40, and sealed connections between the first, second, and third fluid outlets V1, V2, and V3 of the valve body 10 and the respective flow channels of the valve core 20 may be achieved solely through a high degree of fit between the valve body 10 and the valve core 20.

[0038] See Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The multi-way valve 1 further comprises an actuator 30 for rotating the valve core 20 between different operating positions. In one embodiment, it is provided that the actuator 30 may comprise a stepper motor for controlling a rotation angle of the valve core 20. In particular, a drive section 23 (as in Fig. 5) is provided on the cover wall of the valve core 20. The drive section 23 penetrates through the valve body cover 20 and is connected (as a spline connection) to an output shaft of the actuator 30 in order to rotate the valve core 20 relative to the valve body 10 via the actuator 30.

[0039] In the following in connection with Fig. 12 to 16, five operating modes of the multi-way valve 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure are described in more detail.

[0040] Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of a flow state of the multi-way valve 1 in a first operating position of the valve core 20, i.e., a first operating mode of the multi-way valve 1. As shown in the figure, in the first operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second communication opening 220 of the second flow channel 22 of the valve core 20, and the first flow channel opening 210 of the first flow channel 21 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 of the valve body 10. That is, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 via the second flow channel 22 and the first flow channel 21 of the valve core 20, and the fluid can flow into the multi-way valve 1 through the fluid inlet V4 and flow out through the first fluid outlet V1, as indicated by the arrow in Fig. 12. It can be seen that in the first operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1, and the second fluid outlet V2 and the third fluid outlet V3 are not in communication with any other valve opening. The multi-way valve 1 is in the first operating mode.

[0041] Fig. 13 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve 1 in a second operating position of the valve core 20, i.e., a second operating mode of the multi-way valve 1. As shown in the figure, in the second operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second communication opening 220 of the second flow channel 22 of the valve core 20, and the first flow channel opening 210 of the first flow channel 21 is in communication with the third fluid outlet V3 of the valve body 10. That is, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the third fluid outlet V3 via the second flow channel 22 and the first flow channel 21 of the valve core 20, and the fluid can flow into the multi-way valve 1 through the fluid inlet V4 and flow out through the third fluid outlet V3, as indicated by the arrow in Fig. 13. It can be seen that in the second operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the third fluid outlet V3, and the first fluid outlet V1 and the second fluid outlet V2 are not in communication with any other valve opening. The multi-way valve 1 is in the second operating mode.

[0042] Fig. 14 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve 1 in a third operating position of the valve core 20, i.e., a third operating mode of the multi-way valve 1. As shown in the figure, in the third operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second communication opening 220 of the second flow channel 22 of the valve core 20, and the first flow channel opening 210 of the first flow channel 21 is simultaneously in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 and the second fluid outlet V2 of the valve body 10.That is, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 and the second fluid outlet V2 via the second flow channel 22 and the first flow channel 21 of the valve core 20, and the fluid can flow into the multi-way valve 1 through the fluid inlet V4 and flow out through the first fluid outlet V1 and the second fluid outlet V2, as shown by the arrow in . Fig. 13. It can be seen that in the third operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 and the second fluid outlet V2, and the third fluid outlet V3 is not in communication with any other valve opening. The multi-way valve 1 is in the third operating mode.

[0043] It should be noted that in the third operating mode of the multi-way valve 1, by adjusting a position of the valve core 20, in particular an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening 210 and the first communication opening 11 or the second communication opening 12, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet V1 and the second fluid outlet V2 can be adjusted in order to achieve different distribution of the flow rate between different valve openings (i.e., different fluid outlets) of the multi-way valve 1.

[0044] Fig. 15 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve 1 in a fourth operating position of the valve core 20, i.e., a fourth operating mode of the multi-way valve 1. As shown in the figure, in the fourth operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second communication opening 220 of the second flow channel 22 of the valve core 20, and the first flow channel opening 210 of the first flow channel 21 is simultaneously in communication with the second fluid outlet V2 and the third fluid outlet V3 of the valve body 10.That is, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second fluid outlet V2 and the third fluid outlet V3 via the second flow channel 22 and the first flow channel 21 of the valve core 20, and the fluid can flow into the multi-way valve 1 through the fluid inlet V4 and flow out through the second fluid outlet V2 and the third fluid outlet V3, as shown by the arrow in . Fig. 15. It can be seen that in the fourth operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second fluid outlet V2 and the third fluid outlet V3, and the first fluid outlet V1 is not in communication with any other valve opening. The multi-way valve 1 is in the fourth operating mode.

[0045] It should be noted that in the fourth operating mode of the multi-way valve 1, by adjusting a position of the valve core 20, in particular an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening 210 and the second communication opening 12 or the third communication opening 13, a flow rate of the second fluid outlet V2 and the third fluid outlet V3 can be adjusted in order to achieve different distribution of the flow rate between different valve openings (i.e., different fluid outlets) of the multi-way valve 1.

[0046] Fig. 16 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve 1 in a fifth operating position of the valve core 20, i.e., a fifth operating mode of the multi-way valve 1. As shown in the figure, in the fifth operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second communication opening 220 of the second flow channel 22 of the valve core 20, and the first flow channel opening 210 of the first flow channel 21 is simultaneously in communication with the first fluid outlet V1, the second fluid outlet V2, and the third fluid outlet V3 of the valve body 10.That is, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1, the second fluid outlet V2 and the third fluid outlet V3 via the second flow channel 22 and the first flow channel 21 of the valve core 20, and the fluid can flow into the multi-way valve 1 through the fluid inlet V4 and flow out through the first fluid outlet V1, the second fluid outlet V2 and the third fluid outlet V3, as indicated by the arrow in . Fig. 16. It can be seen that in the fifth operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1, the second fluid outlet V2, and the third fluid outlet V3. The multi-way valve 1 is in the fifth operating mode.

[0047] It should be noted that in the fifth operating mode of the multi-way valve 1, by adjusting a position of the valve core 20, in particular an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening 210 and the first communication opening 11 or the third communication opening 13, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet V1 and the third fluid outlet V3 can be adjusted in order to achieve different distribution of the flow rate between different valve openings (i.e., different fluid outlets) of the multi-way valve 1.

[0048] As described above, the valve core 20 is arranged in the valve body 10 and is rotatable relative to the valve body 10 between the first operating position and the fifth operating position, thereby enabling switching between the first operating mode and the fifth operating mode of the multi-way valve 1. This configuration not only results in easy assembly and low cost, but also in simplified control and the possibility of simplifying the piping structure, thereby increasing the degree of integration of the product and thus avoiding the problem that, in the prior art, the switching of the above operating modes is realized by multiple components such as multiple check valves and / or multiple three-way valves.

[0049] Various embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. To simplify the description, the differences between individual embodiments will be described in more detail below, and the same content will not be repeated. Furthermore, like elements in the individual embodiments of the present disclosure are denoted by like reference numerals to facilitate comparison between the individual embodiments.

[0050] Fig. Figure 17 shows a perspective view of the multi-way valve 1 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in the figure, the multi-way valve 1 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in the relative positions of individual communication ports and the relative positions of individual valve ports on the valve body 10.

[0051] See Fig. 17 to 19. In particular, the valve body 10 also comprises four valve openings in the same mounting plane 100, i.e., the fluid inlet V4, the first fluid outlet V1, the second fluid outlet V2, and the third fluid outlet V3, respectively. The first fluid outlet V1, the second fluid outlet V2, and the third fluid outlet V3 are arranged distributed at the same angle around the fluid inlet V4. This means that any two connecting lines from a first connecting line between the first fluid outlet V1 and the fluid inlet V4, a second connecting line between the second fluid outlet V2 and the fluid inlet V4, and a third connecting line between the third fluid outlet V3 and the fluid inlet V4 enclose an angle of 120 degrees, so that the fluid outlets are arranged distributed uniformly around the circumference of the fluid inlet V4.The first communication port 11, the second communication port 12, and the third communication port 13 are also provided in the side wall of the valve chamber of the valve body 10, and the axes of the three communication ports 11, 12, and 13 are arranged at equal angles around the fluid inlet V4. That is, any two communication port axes of the first communication port 11, the second communication port 12, and the third communication port 13 form an angle of 120 degrees, so that the three communication ports 11, 12, and 13 are evenly distributed in the side wall of the valve chamber.The first communication opening 11 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 via a first channel, the second communication opening 12 is in communication with the second fluid outlet V2 via a second channel and the third communication opening 13 is in communication with the third fluid outlet V3 via a third channel.

[0052] Since the relative positions of individual communication openings and the relative positions of individual valve openings of the valve body 10 differ from those in the first embodiment, the valve core 20 in the present embodiment also differs from that in the first embodiment. See Fig. 20. In particular, the valve core 20 may be approximately in the shape of a spherical step and may include a top wall, a bottom wall, and a spherical side wall connecting the top wall and the bottom wall. The valve core 20 includes a first flow channel 21 and a second flow channel 22 for communicating various valve openings of the valve body 10 with each other, thereby forming a fluid circuit. The first flow channel 21 may be an open chamber in the valve core 20, and the chamber includes a first flow channel opening 210 in the spherical side wall for communicating with one or both of the first, second, and third fluid outlets V1, V2, and V3.The second flow channel 22 may represent a channel in the valve core 20 that communicates with the first flow channel 21, and the second flow channel 22 has a second flow channel opening 220 in the bottom wall of the valve core for communicating with the fluid inlet V4. To ensure that the second flow channel 22 is always in communication with the fluid inlet V4 in various operating positions of the valve core 20, the present disclosure provides that the second flow channel opening 220 for the second flow channel 22 is formed, in particular, in the center of the bottom wall of the valve core 20. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, as long as the second flow channel opening 220 is always in communication with the fluid inlet V4.

[0053] See Fig. 21. In order to reduce the flow resistance of the fluid in the valve core 20, the valve core 20 can be provided with an escape space 200 in the first flow channel 21 to allow the fluid to escape from the second flow channel 22 into the valve core 20 and thus reduce the resistance of the fluid. In particular, the escape space 200 in the valve core has a first boundary 201 and a second boundary 202, wherein the first boundary 201 and the second boundary 202 enclose an angle α of approximately 120 degrees. An intersection of the first boundary 201 and the second boundary 202 can be rounded to further reduce the flow resistance. Of course, the present disclosure is not limited to this, as long as the first flow channel 21 is in communication with the second flow channel 22.

[0054] See also Fig. 20 and Fig. 21. The valve core 20 of the present disclosure may further include a support member 23 located in the first flow channel 21 and supported between an upper wall and a lower wall of the first flow channel 21 to increase the structural strength of the valve core 20 and thereby prevent the deformation of the valve core 20 by providing the larger first flow channel 21.

[0055] In addition to the differences of the above valve body 10 and the valve core 20 from those in the first embodiment, the operating modes of the multi-port valve 1 of the present embodiment are also different from those in the first embodiment. Specifically, the multi-port valve 1 of the present embodiment has six operating modes, wherein the first operating mode to the fourth operating mode (i.e., the communicating states of the valve openings) are completely the same as the first to the fourth operating modes in the first embodiment and thus will not be repeated here. The following mainly describes the fifth operating mode and the sixth operating mode of the multi-port valve 1 of the second embodiment, wherein the two operating modes are different from the operating modes in the first embodiment.

[0056] Fig. Figure 22 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve 1 in the fifth operating position of the valve core 20 according to the present embodiment, i.e., the fifth operating mode of the multi-way valve 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, in the fifth operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second communication opening 220 of the second flow channel 22 of the valve core 20, and the first flow channel opening 210 of the first flow channel 21 is in communication with the second fluid outlet V2 of the valve body 10. That is, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second fluid outlet V2 via the second flow channel 22 and the first flow channel 21 of the valve core 20, and the fluid can flow into the multi-way valve 1 through the fluid inlet V4 and flow out through the second fluid outlet V2, as indicated by the arrow in Fig. 22. It can be seen that in the second exemplary embodiment, in the fifth operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second fluid outlet V2, and the first fluid outlet V1 and the third fluid outlet V3 are not in communication with any other valve opening. The multi-way valve 1 is in the fifth operating mode.

[0057] Fig. 23 shows a schematic representation of the flow state of the multi-way valve 1 in a sixth operating position of the valve core 20, i.e., a sixth operating mode of the multi-way valve 1. As shown in the figure, in the sixth operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the second communication opening 220 of the second flow channel 22 of the valve core 20, and the first flow channel opening 210 of the first flow channel 21 is simultaneously in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 and the third fluid outlet V3 of the valve body 10.That is, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 and the third fluid outlet V3 via the second flow channel 22 and the first flow channel 21 of the valve core 20, and the fluid can flow into the multi-way valve 1 through the fluid inlet V4 and flow out through the first fluid outlet V1 and the third fluid outlet V3, as shown by the arrow in . Fig. 23. It can be seen that in the second exemplary embodiment, in the sixth operating position of the valve core 20, the fluid inlet V4 of the valve body 10 is in communication with the first fluid outlet V1 and the third fluid outlet V3, and the second fluid outlet V2 is not in communication with any other valve opening. The multi-way valve 1 is in the sixth operating mode.

[0058] It should be noted that in the sixth operating mode of the multi-way valve 1, by adjusting a position of the valve core 20, in particular an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening 210 and the first communication opening 11 or the third communication opening 13, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet V1 and the third fluid outlet V3 can be adjusted in order to achieve different distribution of the flow rate between different valve openings (i.e., different fluid outlets) of the multi-way valve 1.

[0059] Although the individual embodiments of the present disclosure are primarily described using the example of the valve core 20 in the form of a spherical step, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the valve core 20 may be formed in the shape of a spherical segment, a sphere, or a circular cylinder, etc., as long as it is rotatable relative thereto in the valve body 10. The valve chamber of the valve body 10 should also be formed as a chamber in a shape corresponding to the valve core 20.

[0060] The individual embodiments of the present disclosure are mainly described using the example of the arrangement of the plurality of valve openings in the same mounting plane. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the plurality of valve openings may also be aligned in the same direction and have height differences in the axial directions of the valve openings, whereby they may also be directly plugged into an external component (such as a flow channel plate). For example, the plurality of valve openings may be arranged in two different mounting planes with a height difference (for example, the fluid inlet V4 is arranged in a first mounting plane, while the first to third fluid outlets V1, V2, and V3 are arranged in a second mounting plane), as long as they can be directly plugged into the external component.

[0061] Furthermore, in individual embodiments of the present disclosure, the multi-way valve 1 is primarily described using the example of a four-way valve, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the multi-way valve 1 may also have a plurality of valve openings, which depends primarily on the operating mode of the multi-way valve 1.

[0062] In summary, the multi-port valve according to the present disclosure comprises a valve body and a valve core disposed within the valve body and rotatable relative to the valve body between multiple operating positions. By aligning multiple valve openings of the valve body in the same direction (or, more specifically, by arranging the multiple valve openings in the same mounting plane), the multi-port valve can be directly connected to an external component (such as a flow channel plate) by plug-in connection / coupling, without requiring additional piping for connection. This simplifies / eliminates the piping layout and optimizes the system structure. Furthermore, assembly is facilitated and assembly time is saved. At the same time, switching the multi-port valve between different operating modes is also enabled.This design not only results in easy assembly and low costs, but also in simplified control and the possibility of simplifying the structure of the piping, thereby increasing the degree of integration of the product and thus avoiding the fact that, in the prior art, the change of operating modes is realized by several components such as several check valves and / or several three-way valves.

[0063] The present disclosure further provides a thermal management system 2. See Fig. 24. The thermal management system 2 comprises the above multi-way valve 1 and a flow channel plate 3, wherein the first fluid outlet V1, the second fluid outlet V2, the third fluid outlet V3 and the fluid inlet V4 of the multi-way valve 1 are directly in communication with the flow channel plate 3 by plug-in connection / coupling.

[0064] Above, exemplary embodiments of a multi-way valve and a thermal management system according to the present disclosure are described with reference to preferred embodiments. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the above embodiments can be varied and modified in various ways without departing from the concept of the present disclosure. Furthermore, various technical features or structures according to the present disclosure can be combined with each other in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

[1] Multi-way valve (1), wherein the multi-way valve (1) comprises: a valve body (10) having a plurality of valve openings; and a valve core (20) arranged in the valve body (10) and rotatable relative to the valve body (10) between a plurality of different operating positions, wherein the valve core (20) is a ball valve core, characterized by that in different operating positions of the valve core (20) at least two of the plurality of valve openings can be brought into communication with one another, and that the plurality of valve openings are aligned in the same direction. [2] Multi-way valve (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the plurality of valve openings are arranged in the same mounting plane (100). [3] Multi-way valve (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized byin that the plurality of valve openings comprises a fluid inlet (V4) and a plurality of fluid outlets (V1, V2, V3), and in that the valve body (10) has a valve chamber for receiving the valve core (20), wherein a plurality of communication openings (11, 12, 13) corresponding to the plurality of fluid outlets (V1, V2, V3) are formed in a side wall of the valve chamber. [4] Multi-way valve (1) according to claim 3, characterized by that the communication openings are in fluid communication with the fluid outlets via channels. [5] Multi-way valve (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized byin that the plurality of fluid outlets comprise a first fluid outlet (V1), a second fluid outlet (V2) and a third fluid outlet (V3), and in that the plurality of communication openings comprise: a first communication opening (11) which is in communication with the first fluid outlet (V1) via a first channel; a second communication opening (12) which is in communication with the second fluid outlet (V2) via a second channel; and a third communication opening (13) which is in communication with the third fluid outlet (V3) via a third channel. [6] Multi-way valve (1) according to claim 5, characterized by that communication opening axes of the first communication opening (11) and the third communication opening (13) overlap with each other, and that the communication opening axis of the second communication opening (12) is perpendicular to the communication opening axis of the first communication opening (11). [7] Multi-way valve (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by in that the valve core (20) is designed in the form of a spherical step and has a top wall, a bottom wall and a spherical side wall which connects the top wall and the bottom wall to one another, and in that the valve core (20) comprises a first flow channel (21) and a second flow channel (22) which are in communication with one another, wherein the first flow channel (21) comprises a first flow channel opening in the spherical side wall (210) and the second flow channel (22) comprises a second flow channel opening (220) in the bottom wall. [8] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized byin that the valve core (20) has an escape space (200), wherein the escape space (200) is located in the first flow channel (21), wherein the escape space (200) in the valve core (20) has a first boundary (201) and a second boundary (202), and wherein the first boundary (201) and the second boundary (202) enclose an angle (α) of 150 degrees to 180 degrees. [9] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, as far as it refers back to claim 5, characterized by that the first communication opening (11), the second communication opening (12) and the third communication opening (13) are arranged distributed at the same angle around an axis of the fluid inlet (V4). [10] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the valve core (20) is designed in the form of a spherical step and has a top wall, a bottom wall and a spherical side wall which connects the top wall and the bottom wall to one another, and in that the valve core (20) comprises a first flow channel (21) and a second flow channel (22) which are in communication with one another, wherein the first flow channel (21) comprises a first flow channel opening in the spherical side wall (210) and the second flow channel (22) comprises a second flow channel opening (220) in the bottom wall. [11] Multi-way valve (1) according to claim 10, characterized by in that the valve core (20) has an escape space (200), wherein the escape space (200) is located in the first flow channel (21), wherein the escape space (200) in the valve core (20) has a first boundary (201) and a second boundary (202), and wherein the first boundary (201) and the second boundary (202) enclose an angle (α) of 120 degrees. [12] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, as far as it refers back to claim 7 or 10, characterized by that in a first operating position of the valve core (20) the multi-way valve (1) is in a first operating mode, wherein in the first operating mode: the first flow channel opening (210) of the first flow channel (21) is in communication with the first fluid outlet (V1) and the second flow channel opening (220) of the second flow channel (22) is in communication with the fluid inlet (V4) to bring the first fluid outlet (V1) into communication with the fluid inlet (V4). [13] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, as far as it refers back to claim 7 or 10, characterized by that in a second operating position of the valve core (20) the multi-way valve (1) is in a second operating mode, wherein in the second operating mode: the first flow channel opening (210) of the first flow channel (21) is in communication with the third fluid outlet (V3) and the second flow channel opening (220) of the second flow channel (22) is in communication with the fluid inlet (V4) to bring the third fluid outlet (V3) into communication with the fluid inlet (V4). [14] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, as far as it refers back to claim 7 or 10, characterized by that in a third operating position of the valve core (20) the multi-way valve (1) is in a third operating mode, wherein in the third operating mode: the first flow channel opening (210) of the first flow channel (21) is in communication with the first fluid outlet (V1) and the second fluid outlet (V2) and the second flow channel opening (220) of the second flow channel (22) is in communication with the fluid inlet (V4) in order to bring the first fluid outlet (V1) and the second fluid outlet (V2) into communication with the fluid inlet (V4), and wherein in the third operating mode, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet (V1) and the second fluid outlet (V2) can be adjusted by adjusting an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening (210) and the first communication opening (11) or the second communication opening (12). [15] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, as far as it refers back to claim 7 or 10, characterized bythat in a fourth operating position of the valve core (20) the multi-way valve (1) is in a fourth operating mode, wherein in the fourth operating mode: the first flow channel opening (210) of the first flow channel (21) is in communication with the second fluid outlet (V2) and the third fluid outlet (V3) and the second flow channel opening (220) of the second flow channel (22) is in communication with the fluid inlet (V4) in order to bring the second fluid outlet (V2) and the third fluid outlet (V3) into communication with the fluid inlet (V4), and wherein in the fourth operating mode, a flow rate of the second fluid outlet (V2) and the third fluid outlet (V3) can be adjusted by adjusting an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening (210) and the second communication opening (12) or the third communication opening (13). [16] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, as far as it refers back to claim 7, characterized by that in a fifth operating position of the valve core (20) the multi-way valve (1) is in a fifth operating mode, wherein in the fifth operating mode: the first flow channel opening (210) of the first flow channel (21) is in communication with the first fluid outlet (V1), the second fluid outlet (V2) and the third fluid outlet (V3) and the second flow channel opening (220) of the second flow channel (22) is in communication with the fluid inlet (V4) in order to bring the first fluid outlet (V1), the second fluid outlet (V2) and the third fluid outlet (V3) into communication with the fluid inlet (V4), and wherein in the fifth operating mode, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet (V1) and the third fluid outlet (V3) can be adjusted by adjusting an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening (210) and the first communication opening (11) or the third communication opening (13). [17] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, as far as it refers back to claim 10, characterized by that in a fifth operating position of the valve core (20) the multi-way valve (1) is in a fifth operating mode, wherein in the fifth operating mode: the first flow channel opening (210) of the first flow channel (21) is in communication with the second fluid outlet (V2) and the second flow channel opening (220) of the second flow channel (22) is in communication with the fluid inlet (V4) to bring the second fluid outlet (V2) into communication with the fluid inlet (V4). [18] Multi-way valve (1) according to one of the preceding claims, as far as it refers back to claim 7 or 10, characterized by that in a sixth operating position of the valve core (20) the multi-way valve (1) is in a sixth operating mode, wherein in the sixth operating mode: the first flow channel opening (210) of the first flow channel (21) is in communication with the first fluid outlet (V1) and the third fluid outlet (V3) and the second flow channel opening (220) of the second flow channel (22) is in communication with the fluid inlet (V4) in order to bring the first fluid outlet (V1) and the third fluid outlet (V3) into communication with the fluid inlet (V4), and wherein in the sixth operating mode, a flow rate of the first fluid outlet (V1) and the third fluid outlet (V3) can be adjusted by adjusting an overlap ratio between the first flow channel opening (210) and the first communication opening (11) or the third communication opening (13). [19] Thermal management system (2), characterized by that the thermal management system (2) comprises: a flow channel plate (3); and a multi-way valve (1) according to one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a plurality of fluid outlets (V1, V2, V3) and a fluid inlet (V4) of the multi-way valve (1) are plugged onto the flow channel plate (3).

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