Valve device

Abstract

To suppress stagnation of fluid flowing into a gap between two valve bodies on a valve shaft.SOLUTION: A valve device includes: a lead-in flow passage 21, a first lead-out flow passage 221, and a second lead-out flow passage 222, which are formed in a flow passage housing 11; a first valve seat 121 which is provided between the lead-in flow passage 21 and the first lead-out flow passage 221; a second valve seat 122 which is provided between the lead-in flow passage 21 and the second lead-out flow passage 222; a first valve body 131 which can abut on the first valve seat 121; a second valve body 132 which can abut on the second valve seat 122; a valve shaft 14 on which the first valve body 131 and the second valve body 132 are mounted; and an actuator 15 which drives the valve shaft 14. A gap 26 is provided between the first body 131 and the second valve body 132. Each of the valve bodies 131, 132 has valve body opposed walls 131a, 132a facing each other in the gap 26. Each of the valve body opposed walls 131a, 132a has a tapered shape or a R shape from the valve shaft 14 to each lead-out flow passage 221, 222.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a valve device for adjusting the flow of fluid in a flow path.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as this type of technology, for example, the technology described in Patent Document 1 below is known. This technology is a diverter valve (valve device) for diverting fluid, and includes an input port (introduction flow path), a first output port (first derivation flow path), a second output port (second derivation flow path), a first valve seat (first valve seat) formed between the introduction flow path and the first derivation flow path, a second valve seat (second valve seat) formed between the introduction flow path and the second derivation flow path, a first valve body (first valve body) that abuts and separates from the first valve seat, a second valve body (second valve body) that abuts and separates from the second valve seat, a shaft (valve shaft) to which the first valve body and the second valve body are attached, and a motor (drive unit) that drives the valve shaft. The first valve body and the second valve body are attached adjacent to each other on the valve shaft with a space therebetween.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the valve device described in Patent Document 1, since the space between the first valve body and the second valve body has a shape that is intricate with respect to the fluid, the flow of the fluid toward the first derivation flow path or the second derivation flow path through the space between the first valve body and the second valve body is inhibited, and there is a concern that the fluid may stagnate.

[0005] This disclosed technology has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a valve device capable of suppressing the stagnation of fluid flowing into the space between two valve bodies on a valve shaft.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the technique according to claim 1 is a valve device including a flow path member, an introduction flow path formed in the flow path member for introducing a fluid, a first derivation flow path formed in the flow path member for deriving the fluid introduced from the introduction flow path, a second derivation flow path formed in the flow path member for deriving the fluid introduced from the introduction flow path, a first valve seat provided between the introduction flow path and the first derivation flow path in the flow path member, a second valve seat provided between the introduction flow path and the second derivation flow path in the flow path member, a first valve body that abuts on and separates from the first valve seat, a second valve body that abuts on and separates from the second valve seat, a valve shaft to which the first valve body and the second valve body are attached, and a drive unit for driving the valve shaft. A predetermined interval is provided between the first valve body and the second valve body. In the interval, each valve body has a valve body facing wall facing each other, and at least a part of the circumferential direction of each valve body facing wall has a tapered shape or an R shape directed from the valve shaft to the corresponding derivation flow path.

[0007] According to the configuration of the above technique, in the interval between the first valve body and the second valve body attached to the valve shaft, each valve body facing wall of each valve body has a tapered shape or an R shape directed from the valve shaft to the corresponding derivation flow path at least in a part of the circumferential direction. Therefore, due to the shape of each valve body facing wall, the pressure loss of the fluid flowing into the interval between the two valve bodies from the introduction flow path is reduced, and the flow of the fluid from the interval to each derivation flow path becomes smooth.

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the technique according to claim 2 is the technique according to claim 1, further including a first valve hole formed in the first valve seat and a second valve hole formed in the second valve seat, and an R-shaped or tapered converging inner wall converging from the introduction flow path to the corresponding valve holes is provided on at least one of the valve seats.

[0009] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the operation of the technology described in claim 1, at least one of each valve seat is provided with a converging inner wall in an R shape or a tapered shape that converges from the introduction flow path to the corresponding valve hole. Therefore, the pressure loss of the fluid flowing from the introduction flow path to the corresponding valve hole is reduced, and the fluid flowing toward at least one of the valve holes flows smoothly.

[0010] To achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 3 is, in the technology described in claim 2, a seal member is provided at the contact portion of each valve body with the corresponding valve seat, and an annular valve seat ridge that can contact the seal member is provided at the opening edge on the valve body side of at least one of the valve holes. A valve seat groove is formed in the converging inner wall inside the valve seat ridge, and the opening of the valve seat groove is formed following a virtual continuous line that is continuous with the R shape or the tapered shape of the converging inner wall. The virtual continuous line is connected to the tip of the valve seat ridge.

[0011] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the operation of the technology described in claim 2, a seal member is provided at the contact portion of each valve body with the corresponding valve seat, and an annular valve seat ridge that can contact the seal member is provided at the opening edge on the valve body side of at least one of the valve holes. Therefore, the contact between at least one of each valve seat and the corresponding valve body is performed by the engagement contact between the valve seat ridge and the seal member. In addition, the opening of the valve seat groove formed in the converging inner wall inside the valve seat ridge is formed following a virtual continuous line that is continuous with the R shape or the tapered shape of the converging inner wall, and the virtual continuous line is connected to the tip of the valve seat ridge. Therefore, the fluid along the R shape or the tapered shape of the converging inner wall of the valve seat flows to its downstream side without colliding with the valve seat ridge.

[0012] To achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 4 is, in the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, each valve body has a valve seat facing wall facing the corresponding valve seat, and at least one of each valve seat facing wall has an R shape or a tapered shape that converges toward the corresponding valve hole.

[0013] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the operation of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, at least one of the valve seat facing walls of each valve body facing the corresponding valve seat converges toward the corresponding valve hole in an R shape or a tapered shape. Therefore, for at least one of each valve body, when the valve is opened, the fluid flowing toward the valve hole is rectified by the valve seat facing wall that converges in an R shape or a tapered shape, and the pressure loss of the fluid is reduced.

[0014] To achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 5 is, in the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first valve seat is integrally formed with a holding member separate from the flow path member, and the holding member extends in the coaxial direction with the valve shaft at the connection portion between the introduction flow path and the first derivation flow path and has a connection portion connected to the first valve seat.

[0015] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the operation of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, since the first valve seat is integrally formed with a holding member separate from the flow path member, the degree of freedom in forming the first valve seat is improved compared to being formed in the flow path member. Further, since the holding member extends in the coaxial direction with the valve shaft at the connection portion between the introduction flow path and the first derivation flow path and has a connection portion connected to the first valve seat, the connection portion does not restrict the movement of the valve shaft.

[0016] To achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 6 is, in the technology described in claim 5, characterized in that the holding member is provided integrally with the drive portion.

[0017] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the operation of the technology described in claim 5, since the holding member in which the first valve seat is formed is provided integrally with the drive portion, when the drive portion is assembled to the flow path member, the first valve seat is simultaneously assembled to the flow path member.

[0018] To achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 7 is, in the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the valve device is used in a cooling system mounted on an electric vehicle.

[0019] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the operation of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, since the valve device is used in the cooling system mounted on the electric vehicle, in the cooling system of the electric vehicle, the same operation as the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3 can be obtained. Further, in the cooling system, the flow efficiency of the fluid in the valve device is improved.

Effect of the Invention

[0020] According to the technology described in claim 1, it is possible to suppress the retention of the fluid flowing into the space between the two valve bodies on the valve shaft.

[0021] According to the technology described in claim 2, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 1, it is possible to suppress the retention of the fluid flowing into at least one of the first valve hole and the second valve hole.

[0022] According to the technology described in claim 3, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 2, when fully closed, the sealing performance of the valve seat can be improved by the engagement contact between the valve seat rib and the sealing member, and when the valve is opened, it is possible to suppress the retention of the fluid inside the valve seat rib of the valve seat.

[0023] According to the technology described in claim 4, in addition to the effect of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, it is possible to suppress the retention of the fluid flowing into the valve hole.

[0024] According to the technology described in claim 5, in addition to the effect of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, it is possible to easily form a converging inner wall such as an R shape or a tapered shape around the first valve hole of the first valve seat.

[0025] According to the technology described in claim 6, in addition to the effect of the technology described in claim 5, it is possible to omit the process for assembling only the first valve seat to the flow path member.

[0026] According to the technology described in claim 7, in addition to the effects of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, for the valve device used in the cooling system of an electric vehicle, the same effects as those of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3 can be obtained. Moreover, the energy efficiency of the cooling system of the electric vehicle can be improved, and it can contribute to carbon neutrality.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0028] Hereinafter, several embodiments in which the "valve device" of this disclosed technology is embodied will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0029] <First Embodiment> First, the valve device of the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12.

[0030] [Regarding the Configuration of the Valve Device] FIGS. 1 and 2 show the valve device 1 in a cross-sectional view. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the valve device 1 includes a flow path housing 11 having a flow path, a valve seat 12, a valve body 13, a valve shaft 14, and an actuator 15.

[0031] This valve device 1 constitutes a three-way valve, and the flow path housing 11 includes a valve chamber 20 that houses the valve body 13, one introduction flow path 21, and two discharge flow paths 22. The valve chamber 20 constitutes one end portion of the introduction flow path 21. The flow path housing 11 corresponds to an example of the "flow path member" of this disclosed technology. In this embodiment, the flow path housing 11 is formed of resin.

[0032] The introduction flow path 21 is a flow path that communicates with the valve chamber 20 and allows fluid to flow into the valve chamber 20. The discharge flow path 22 is a flow path that allows fluid to flow out from the valve chamber 20. The two discharge flow paths 22 include a first discharge flow path 221 and a second discharge flow path 222. The first discharge flow path 221 is provided on the side of the actuator 15 with respect to the valve chamber 20. The second discharge flow path 222 is provided on the side opposite to the actuator 15 with respect to the valve chamber 20.

[0033] The valve seat 12 includes a first valve seat 121 and a second valve seat 122. The first valve seat 121 is disposed on the side of the first outlet flow path 221 of the valve chamber 20. The second valve seat 122 is disposed on the side of the second outlet flow path 222 of the valve chamber 20. Both the first valve seat 121 and the second valve seat 122 are formed in an annular shape and have a first valve hole 16 and a second valve hole 17 at their centers respectively. Note that the valve seat 12 is formed of resin, but it can also be formed of rubber.

[0034] The valve body 13 is attached to the lower end of the valve shaft 14 and opens and closes the first valve hole 16 and the second valve hole 17 by coming into contact with and separating from the valve seat 12. In this embodiment, the valve body 13 includes a first valve body 131 and a second valve body 132 that are spaced apart by a distance 26 in the axial direction of the valve shaft 14. A first seal member 18 is provided at the contact portion of the first valve body 131 with the first valve seat 121, and the first seal member 18 comes into contact with and separates from the first valve seat 121. Also, a second seal member 19 is provided at the contact portion of the second valve body 132 with the second valve seat 122, and the second seal member 19 comes into contact with and separates from the second valve seat 122. Note that in this embodiment, the valve body 13 is formed of resin, but it can also be formed of metal. Each of the seal members 18, 19 is formed in an annular plate shape of rubber, but it can also be formed of other elastic materials. Also, when the valve seat 12 is made of an elastic material, the seal members 18, 19 may not be provided.

[0035] The valve shaft 14 is disposed inside the flow path housing 11 and the actuator 15. One end side of the valve shaft 14 is disposed in the actuator 15, and the other end side of the valve shaft 14 is disposed in the valve chamber 20 where the valve body 13 is attached. The valve shaft 14 is reciprocable in the thrust direction which is its axial direction. Note that in this embodiment, the valve shaft 14 is formed of metal, but it can also be formed of resin.

[0036] The actuator 15 is a member that moves the valve shaft 14 in its axial direction together with the valve body 13, and corresponds to an example of the "drive unit" of this disclosed technology. In this embodiment, the actuator 15 includes a movable core 31, a fixed core 32, a bobbin 33, a coil 34, a casing 35, and the like.

[0037] The movable core 31 is provided integrally with the valve shaft 14 and is configured to move the valve shaft 14 in its axial direction by moving in the axial direction. The fixed core 32 is arranged to face the movable core 31 in the axial direction of the valve shaft 14. A thrust bearing 36 for the valve shaft 14 is provided between the upper end portion of the valve shaft 14 and the fixed core 32. Further, a compression spring 37 for biasing the movable core 31 downward in FIGS. 1 and 2 is provided between the thrust bearing 36 and the movable core 31 on the outer periphery of the valve shaft 14.

[0038] The movable core 31 and the fixed core 32 are formed of a magnetic material (for example, metal). When an electric current flows through the coil 34 and a magnetic field is generated around the coil 34, the movable core 31 and the fixed core 32 are magnetized by the magnetic field. When the movable core 31 and the fixed core 32 are magnetized, the movable core 31 is attracted to the fixed core 32 by the magnetic force, and the movable core 31 approaches the fixed core 32 together with the valve shaft 14 against the biasing force of the compression spring 37. When no electric current is flowing through the coil 34, the movable core 31 and the fixed core 32 are not magnetized, the movable core 31 is not attracted to the fixed core 32, and the movable core 31 is separated from the fixed core 32 together with the valve shaft 14 by the biasing force of the compression spring 37.

[0039] The bobbin 33 is formed in a cylindrical shape, with the movable core 31 and the fixed core 32 provided inside and the coil 34 provided outside. By molding and covering the bobbin 33, the coil 34, etc. with resin, a resin casing 35 is formed. A connector 35a protruding laterally is integrally formed on the casing 35. A terminal 34a extending from the coil 34 is provided on the connector 35a.

[0040] The valve device 1 configured as described above can be switched between a first valve-opening state shown in FIG. 1 and a second valve-opening state shown in FIG. 2 by moving the valve shaft 14 in its axial direction by the actuator 15.

[0041] Note that the "first valve-opening state" is a state in which the first valve seat 121 and the first valve body 131 are fully open and the second valve seat 122 and the second valve body 132 are fully closed. Also, the "second valve-opening state" is a state in which the first valve seat 121 and the first valve body 131 are fully closed and the second valve seat 122 and the second valve body 132 are fully open. Further, the "fully closed state" is a state in which the valve seat 12 and the valve body 13 are in contact with each other over the entire circumference on one end side of the annular valve seat 12, and the space between the valve seat 12 and the valve body 13 is sealed.

[0042] Here, in the first valve-opening state shown in FIG. 1, the fluid introduced from the introduction flow path 21 is led out from the first lead-out flow path 221. In the second valve-opening state shown in FIG. 2, the fluid introduced from the introduction flow path 21 is led out from the second lead-out flow path 222.

[0043] [Regarding the integration of the first valve seat and the bobbin] Next, the integration of the first valve seat 121 and the bobbin 33 will be described. FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the first valve seat 121 integrated with the bobbin 33. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 3 of the connecting portion 40 with the bobbin 33. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the first valve seat 121 is formed integrally with a bobbin 33 that is separate from the flow path housing 11. The bobbin 33 extends in the same axial direction as the valve shaft 14 at the connecting portion between the introduction flow path 21 and the first lead-out flow path 221 and has a connecting portion 40 connected to the first valve seat 121. That is, the first valve seat 121 and the bobbin 33 are integrally formed via the connecting portion 40. Note that the first valve seat 121 and the connecting portion 40 are housed inside the flow path housing 11 (a part of the first lead-out flow path 221). In this embodiment, the bobbin 33 is provided integrally with the actuator 15. The bobbin 33 including the connecting portion 40 corresponds to an example of the "holding member" of this disclosed technology.

[0044] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the connecting portion 40 includes four pillar portions 41. These pillar portions 41 are formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. Note that the connecting portion 40 is not limited to four, and may be configured by a plurality other than four.

[0045] In this present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the four pillar portions 41 are arranged at equal angular intervals from each other in the circumferential direction of the annular first valve seat 121. That is, the four pillar portions 41 are evenly arranged at intervals of 90° in the circumferential direction of the first valve seat 121. The pillar portion 41 has a substantially rectangular cross section and is arranged such that its long side direction coincides with the radial direction of the first valve seat 121. Note that an opening 42 through which fluid flows is formed between adjacent pillar portions 41. Note that the arrangement and cross-sectional shape of the four pillar portions 41 are not limited to the above, and can be changed as appropriate.

[0046] [Regarding the shape of the valve body] Next, the shape of the valve body 13 of this embodiment will be described in detail. FIG. 5 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion including the valve body 13 of FIG. 1. FIG. 6 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of only the valve body 13 and the valve shaft 14. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a predetermined interval 26 is provided between the first valve body 131 and the second valve body 132. In this interval 26, the first valve body 131 and the second valve body 132 have valve body opposing walls 131a and 132a that face each other. The entire circumferential direction of each valve body opposing wall 131a and 132a has a tapered shape or an R shape (arc shape having a radius R) that extends from the valve shaft 14 toward the corresponding respective outlet flow paths 221 and 222. Note that a part of the circumferential direction of each valve body opposing wall 131a and 132a can also be formed in a tapered shape or an R shape that extends from the valve shaft 14 toward the corresponding respective outlet flow paths 221 and 222.

[0047] Also, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each valve body 131 and 132 has a valve seat opposing wall 131b and 132b that faces the corresponding respective valve seats 121 and 122. Each valve seat opposing wall 131b and 132b has an R shape or a tapered shape that converges toward the corresponding respective valve holes 16 and 17.

[0048] [Regarding the Shape of the Valve Seat] Next, the shape of the valve seat 12 of this embodiment will be described in detail. In FIG. 7, only the first valve seat 121 in FIG. 5 is shown in an enlarged cross-sectional view. In FIG. 8, only the second valve seat 122 in FIG. 5 is shown in an enlarged cross-sectional view. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, on the side of the first valve seat 121 facing the first valve body 131, a converging inner wall 121a having an R shape or a tapered shape converging from the introduction flow path 21 to the first valve hole 16 is provided over the entire circumference. Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, on the side of the second valve seat 122 facing the first valve body 131, a converging inner wall 122a having an R shape or a tapered shape converging from the valve chamber 20 (introduction flow path 21) to the second valve hole 17 is provided.

[0049] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, an annular valve seat ridge 121b capable of abutting against the first seal member 18 is formed at the valve body side opening edge of the first valve hole 16. Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, an annular valve seat ridge 122b capable of abutting against the second seal member 19 is formed at the valve body side opening edge of the second valve hole 17. Each of the valve seat ridges 121b, 122b has an acute tip that smoothly continues to the corresponding converging inner walls 121a, 122a, and is formed so as to surround the respective valve holes 16, 17.

[0050] FIG. 9 shows, in an enlarged cross-sectional view, a part of the first valve seat 121 surrounded by the chain line circle S1 in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 9, the height H from the upper end of the inner wall of the introduction flow path 21 to the upper end of the converging inner wall 121a is set to be greater than or equal to the radius height Rh of the converging inner wall 121a. In this embodiment, on the side of the first valve seat 121 facing the first valve body 131, since the converging inner wall 121a having an R shape or a tapered shape is provided, the axial length of the first valve seat 121 becomes longer, and accordingly, the press-fitting allowance of the first valve seat 121 in the flow path housing 11 becomes longer, and the overall height of the valve device 1 becomes higher.

[0051] [Regarding the Usage Example of the Valve Device] An example of the use of the valve device 1 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 shows an example of the use of the above-described valve device 1 in a circuit diagram. As shown in FIG. 10, in this embodiment, the valve device 1 is used in a cooling system 81 mounted on an electric vehicle 80. This cooling system 81 corresponds to an example of the "cooling system" of this disclosed technology. In this example of use, the refrigerant flowing through the cooling system 81 corresponds to an example of the "fluid" of this disclosure. The electric vehicle 80 is, for example, a vehicle equipped with a motor driven by the power of a secondary battery as a drive source of the vehicle, and travels by driving drive wheels with that motor, including electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, etc.

[0052] In this embodiment, as the valve device 1, a first valve device 82 and a second valve device 83 are included. The cooling system 81 includes, in addition to each valve device 82, 83, a heater 84, a battery 85, a DC-DC converter 86, a battery charger 87, a radiator 88, and an electric pump 89. Each valve device 82, 83 has an inlet 82a, 83a of the introduction flow path 21, a first outlet 82b, 83b of the first derivation flow path 221, and a second outlet 82c, 83c of the second derivation flow path 222. These members 82 to 89 are arranged along a main pipe 90 that circulates the refrigerant. The main pipe 90 includes a first pipe portion 90a, a second pipe portion 90b, and a third pipe portion 90c.

[0053] The discharge port 89a of the electric pump 89 is connected to the inlet 82a of the first valve device 82 via the first pipe portion 90a. The second outlet 82c of the first valve device 82 is connected to the inlet 83a of the second valve device 83 via the second pipe portion 90b. In the middle of the second pipe portion 90b, the heater 84, the battery 85, the DC-DC converter 86, and the battery charger 87 are sequentially arranged from its upstream side. The first outlet 82b of the first valve device 82 is connected to the second pipe portion 90b at a position immediately upstream of the DC-DC converter 86 via the first bypass pipe 91. The second outlet 83c of the second valve device 83 is connected to the suction port 89b of the electric pump 89 via the third pipe portion 90c. A radiator 88 is arranged in the middle of the third pipe portion 90c. The first outlet 83b of the second valve device 83 is connected to the third pipe portion 90c at a position immediately upstream of the suction port 89b of the electric pump 89 via the second bypass pipe 92.

[0054] And in this cooling system 81, by starting the electric pump 89 and driving each valve device 82, 83 to switch the flow path, the flow of the refrigerant to each member 84 to 88 is switched.

[0055] In this embodiment, by switching the flow path by each valve device 82, 83, it is switched to the first to third flow path patterns. Here, the first flow path pattern is switched when preventing overheating and overcooling of the battery 85. In this first flow path pattern, the electric pump 89 is started and the heater 84 is turned off, the first valve device 82 is switched to the first outlet 82b, and the second valve device 83 is switched to the second outlet 83c. Thereby, the refrigerant discharged from the electric pump 89 sequentially flows through the first bypass pipe 91, the second pipe portion 90b, and the third pipe portion 90c from the first valve device 82, the DC-DC converter 86, the battery charger 87, the second valve device 83, and the radiator 88, and returns to the suction port 89b of the electric pump 89, repeating this circulation. This first flow path pattern is switched during low-speed operation in spring and autumn to keep the temperature of the battery 85 appropriate.

[0056] The second flow path pattern is switched when cooling the battery 85 or performing waste heat overheating. In this second flow path pattern, the electric pump 89 is started and the heater 84 is turned off, the first valve device 82 is switched to the second outlet 82c, and the second valve device 83 is switched to the second outlet 83c. Thereby, the refrigerant discharged from the electric pump 89 sequentially flows through the second pipe portion 90b and the third pipe portion 90c from the first valve device 82, the heater 84, the battery 85, the DC-DC converter 86, the battery charger 87, the second valve device 83, and the radiator 88, and returns to the suction port 89b of the electric pump 89, repeating this circulation. This second flow path pattern is switched when the temperature in summer becomes high or when the battery 85 is generating heat, and is configured to cool the battery 85.

[0057] The third flow path pattern is switched when the battery 85 is heated by the heater 84. In this third flow path pattern, the electric pump 89 is started and the heater 84 is turned on. The first valve device 82 is switched to the second outlet 82c, and the second valve device 83 is switched to the first outlet 83b. As a result, the refrigerant discharged from the electric pump 89 passes through the second piping section 90b, the second bypass pipe 92, and the third piping section 90c from the first valve device 82, and sequentially flows through the heater 84, the battery 85, the DC-DC converter 86, the battery charger 87, and the second valve device 83, and returns to the suction port 89b of the electric pump 89, repeating this circulation. This third flow path pattern is switched when the winter temperature drops or when it is desired to quickly warm up the battery 85.

[0058] The battery 85 of the electric vehicle 80 has the characteristic that its performance deteriorates outside a certain temperature range. Therefore, in this embodiment, while monitoring the temperature of the battery 85 and the refrigerant, the switching of the above flow path patterns is performed so that the temperature of the battery 85 becomes "25 to 35°C".

[0059] [Regarding the operation and effects of the valve device and the cooling system equipped with the same] According to the configuration of the valve device 1 of this embodiment described above, in the interval 26 between the first valve body 131 and the second valve body 132 attached to the valve shaft 14, the valve body facing walls 131a, 132a of the respective valve bodies 131, 132 have a tapered shape or an R shape extending from the valve shaft 14 toward the first outlet flow path 221 and the second outlet flow path 222 at least in a part of the circumferential direction. Therefore, due to the shape of the valve body facing walls 131a, 132a, the pressure loss of the fluid flowing from the introduction flow path 21 into the interval 26 between the two valve bodies 131, 132 is reduced, and the flow of the fluid from the interval 26 toward the corresponding outlet flow paths 221, 222 becomes smooth. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the retention of the fluid flowing into the interval 26 between the two valve bodies 131, 132 on the valve shaft 14.

[0060] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the first valve seat 121 is provided with a converging inner wall 121a having an R shape or a tapered shape that converges from the introduction flow path 21 to the first valve hole 16. Further, the second valve seat 122 is provided with a converging inner wall 122a having an R shape or a tapered shape that converges from the valve chamber 20 to the second valve hole 17. Therefore, the pressure loss of the fluid flowing from the introduction flow path 21 to the first valve hole 16 and the second valve hole 17 is reduced, and the fluid flowing toward the first valve hole 16 and the second valve hole 17 flows smoothly. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the retention of the fluid flowing into the first valve hole 16 and the second valve hole 17.

[0061] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the valve seat facing walls 131b and 132b of the respective valve bodies 131 and 132 facing the corresponding valve seats 121 and 122 have an R shape or a tapered shape that converges toward the corresponding valve holes 16 and 17. Therefore, for each of the valve bodies 131 and 132, when the valve is opened, the fluid flowing toward the valve holes 16 and 17 is rectified by the valve seat facing walls 131b and 132b that converge into an R shape or a tapered shape, and the pressure loss of the fluid is reduced. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the retention of the fluid flowing into the valve holes 16 and 17.

[0062] FIG. 11 shows the states of the valve bodies 131 and 132 and the valve seats 121 and 122 in the first valve open state by a cross-sectional view that simplifies FIG. 5. FIG. 12 shows the states of the valve bodies 131 and 132 and the valve seats 121 and 122 in the second valve open state by a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 11. In FIGS. 11 and 12, the dashed arrow indicates the "valve seat opening area SA", which represents the opening areas of the valve holes 16 and 17 excluding the cross-sectional area of the valve shaft 14. The solid arrow indicates the "total valve body peripheral area BA", which represents the opening area of the entire periphery of each valve body 131 and 132 due to the movement of each valve body 131 and 132. The one-dot chain line arrow indicates the "taper total peripheral area TA", which represents the opening area of the entire periphery of the valve seat facing walls 131b and 132b due to the movement of each valve body 131 and 132.

[0063] In the first valve opening state shown in Fig. 11, the fluid introduced into the introduction flow path 21 flows into the first discharge flow path 221 through the first valve hole 16 of the first valve seat 121. Here, the total taper area TA is larger than the smaller side of the total valve body area BA and the valve seat opening area SA. Also, when the total valve body area BA is larger than the valve seat opening area SA, if a taper is formed in the first valve hole 16, the valve seat opening area SA, which is the minimum opening area, becomes even smaller, and the pressure loss increases due to the decrease in the opening area of the minimum opening area part. Therefore, it is not possible to form a taper in the first valve hole 16. Then, the fluid flowing into the space 26 between the two valve bodies 131 and 132 from the introduction flow path 21 flows toward the first valve hole 16 of the first valve seat 121 as shown by the thick arrow, but flows smoothly while bending along the curved surface of the valve seat facing wall 131b and passes through the first valve hole 16 to the downstream side.

[0064] Also, in the second valve opening state shown in Fig. 12, the fluid introduced into the introduction flow path 21 flows into the second discharge flow path 222 through the second valve hole 17 of the second valve seat 122. Here too, the total taper area TA is larger than the smaller side of the total valve body area BA and the valve seat opening area SA. Also, when the total valve body area BA is larger than the valve seat opening area SA, if a taper is formed in the second valve hole 17, the valve seat opening area SA, which is the minimum opening area, becomes even smaller, and the pressure loss increases due to the decrease in the opening area of the minimum opening area part. Therefore, it is not possible to form a taper in the second valve hole 17. Since there is no valve shaft 14, the valve seat facing wall 132b of the second valve body 132 can have a larger taper or R shape than the valve seat facing wall 131b of the first valve body 131. The fluid flowing into the space 26 between the two valve bodies 131 and 132 from the introduction flow path 21 flows toward the second valve hole 17 of the second valve seat 122 as shown by the thick arrow, but bends along the curved surface of the valve seat facing wall 132b and forms a smooth flow while passing through the second valve hole 17 to the downstream side.

[0065] According to the configuration of this embodiment, since the first valve seat 121 is formed integrally with the bobbin 33 which is separate from the flow path housing 11, the degree of freedom in molding the first valve seat 121 is improved compared to being formed in the flow path housing 11. Also, since the bobbin 33 has a connecting portion 40 that extends in the coaxial direction with the valve shaft 14 and is connected to the first valve seat 121 at the connecting portion of the introduction flow path 21 and the first discharge flow path 221, the connecting portion 40 does not restrict the movement of the valve shaft 14. Therefore, it is possible to easily mold a converging inner wall 121a having an R shape or a tapered shape and a valve seat rib 121b around the first valve hole 16 of the first valve seat 121.

[0066] According to the configuration of this embodiment, since the bobbin 33 on which the first valve seat 121 is formed is provided integrally with the actuator 15, when the actuator 15 is assembled to the flow path housing 11, the first valve seat 121 is simultaneously assembled to the flow path housing 11. For this reason, the process for assembling only the first valve seat 121 to the flow path housing 11 can be omitted.

[0067] In this embodiment, since the first valve seat 121 and the bobbin 33 are one part, the number of parts of the valve device 1 is reduced by that much, and the manufacturing cost of the valve device 1 can be reduced.

[0068] Also, in this embodiment, since the connecting portion 40 is constituted by four pillar portions 41 arranged at equal angular intervals, the shape of the connecting portion 40 can be simplified, and the flow path resistance in the first discharge flow path 221 can be reduced.

[0069] In addition, in this embodiment, since the first valve seat 121 and the bobbin 33 are integrally formed via the connecting portion 40, the positioning of the first valve seat 121 and the bobbin 33 is achieved. Therefore, the axial displacement (i.e., the displacement of the central axis) between the first valve hole 16 of the first valve seat 121 and the bobbin 33 can be suppressed, and the axial displacement between the valve shaft 14 disposed inside the first valve hole 16 and the bobbin 33 can be suppressed. As a result, the centering accuracy (i.e., the accuracy with which the positions of the central axes coincide) between the first valve seat 121 and the first valve body 131 can be improved. Further, when the first valve seat 121 and the first valve body 131 are in the fully closed state (i.e., the second valve opening state in FIG. 2), the space between the first valve seat 121 and the first valve body 131 can be sealed, and fluid leakage between the first valve seat 121 and the first valve body 131 can be reduced.

[0070] Furthermore, in this embodiment, due to the integration with the bobbin 33, the function for holding the first valve seat 121 is simplified. That is, when the first valve seat and the bobbin are formed separately, a function for fixing the position of the first valve seat so that it does not shift is required. Therefore, for example, in order to press-fit the first valve seat into the body, it is necessary to increase the thickness of the body to ensure strength. In contrast, in this embodiment, since the first valve seat 121 and the bobbin 33 are integrally formed, it is difficult for the position of the first valve seat 121 to shift, and measures against the position shift of the first valve seat 121 become unnecessary. For this reason, for example, it is no longer necessary to press-fit the first valve seat 121 into the flow path housing 11, and the thickness of the flow path housing 11 can be reduced. Also, the configuration for holding the first valve seat 121 can be simplified.

[0071] According to the configuration of this embodiment, since the valve device 1 is used in the cooling system 81 mounted on the electric vehicle 80, in the cooling system 81 of the electric vehicle 80, the same operations as described above can be obtained. Also, in the cooling system 81, the flow efficiency of the fluid in the valve device 1 is improved. Therefore, for the valve device 1 used in the cooling system 81 of the electric vehicle 80, the same effects as described above can be obtained. Further, the energy efficiency of the cooling system 81 of the electric vehicle 80 can be improved, contributing to carbon neutrality.

[0072] In this embodiment, the valve device 1 is a device used in the cooling system 81 of the electric vehicle 80. When the first valve seat 121 and the first valve body 131 are fully closed, the contact between the valve seat ridge 121b and the first seal member 18 can reduce the leakage of the refrigerant between the first valve seat 121 and the first valve body 131. Therefore, the flow rate of the refrigerant can be accurately controlled. For this reason, the refrigerant with the required flow rate in the electric vehicle 80 can be made to flow. In this sense, the energy efficiency of the electric vehicle 80 can be improved, and it can contribute to carbon neutrality.

[0073] <Second Embodiment> Next, the valve device of the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 13. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be given to the components equivalent to those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted, and the description will be centered on the different points.

[0074] [Regarding the shape of the valve seat] In this embodiment, it is different from the first embodiment in terms of the shape of the first valve seat 121. FIG. 13 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the valve device 1 according to FIG. 5. In this embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, with respect to the inner wall outside the valve seat ridge 121b of the first valve seat 121, on the side closer to the introduction flow path 21 (the right side in FIG. 11), the converging inner wall 121a is not formed and has a flat shape, and on the side farther from the introduction flow path 21 (the left side in FIG. 11), the converging inner wall 121a having an R shape or a tapered shape is formed.

[0075] [Regarding the operation and effect of the valve device] According to the configuration of the valve device 1 of this embodiment described above, unlike the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, with respect to the inner wall outside the valve seat ridge 121b of the first valve seat 121, the converging inner wall 121a is not formed on the side closer to the introduction flow path 21 (the right side in FIG. 11) and has a flat shape. Therefore, the height of the flow path housing 11 is slightly reduced compared to the first embodiment, the flow path length to the first derivation flow path 221 is shortened, and the pressure loss can be reduced accordingly.

[0076] <Third Embodiment> Next, the valve device according to the third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0077] [Regarding the shape of the valve seat] FIG. 14 shows a partial enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the first valve seat 121 according to the proportional relationship (each of the above embodiments). In each of the above embodiments, as shown in FIG. 14, an annular valve seat ridge 121b capable of contacting the first seal member 18 is formed continuously along a converging inner wall 121a having an R shape or a tapered shape at the valve body side opening edge of the first valve hole 16. Therefore, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 14, the flow of fluid along the converging inner wall 121a may collide with the valve seat ridge 121b and become turbulent, causing a pressure loss. Therefore, in this embodiment, the converging inner wall 121a inside the valve seat ridge 121b is configured as follows.

[0078] FIG. 15 shows a partial enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the first valve seat 121 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, in this embodiment, different from the first embodiment, an annular valve seat groove 121c is formed along the valve seat ridge 121b in the converging inner wall 121a inside the valve seat ridge 121b of the first valve seat 121. The opening of this valve seat groove 121c is formed following a virtual continuous line L1 that is continuous with the R shape or tapered shape of the converging inner wall 121a, and the virtual continuous line L1 is connected to the tip of the valve seat ridge 121b.

[0079] Although illustration and description are omitted, an annular valve seat groove can also be formed along the valve seat ridge 122b in the converging inner wall 122a inside the valve seat ridge 122b of the second valve seat 122 in the same manner as above.

[0080] [Regarding the operation and effects of the valve device] According to the configuration of the valve device 1 of this embodiment described above, different from the first embodiment, each valve body 131, 132 is provided with each sealing member 18, 19 at the contact portion with each valve seat 121, 122, and annular valve seat ridges 121b, 122b capable of contacting each sealing member 18, 19 are provided at the valve body side opening edges of each valve hole 16, 17. Therefore, the contact between each valve seat 121, 122 and the corresponding valve bodies 131, 132 is performed by the engagement contact between the valve seat ridges 121b, 122b and the sealing members 18, 19. Further, the opening of the valve seat groove 121c formed in the converging inner wall 121a inside the valve seat ridge 121b of the first valve seat 121 is formed following a virtual continuous line L1 that is continuous with the R shape or tapered shape of the converging inner wall 121a, and the virtual continuous line L1 is connected to the tip of the valve seat ridge 121b. Therefore, the fluid along the R shape or tapered shape of the converging inner wall 121a of the first valve seat 121 flows to its downstream side without colliding with the valve seat ridge 121b (see FIG. 14). For this reason, when the first valve seat 121 is fully closed (see FIG. 2), the sealing performance of the first valve seat 121 can be improved by the engagement contact between the valve seat ridge 121b and the first sealing member 18, and when the first valve seat 121 is opened (see FIG. 1), the retention of fluid inside the valve seat ridge 121b of the first valve seat 121 can be suppressed.

[0081] <Another embodiment> Note that the disclosed technology is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and a part of the configuration can be appropriately changed and implemented without departing from the spirit of the disclosed technology.

[0082] (1) In each of the above embodiments, both of the valve body facing walls 131a, 132a of each valve body 131, 132 are formed in a tapered shape or an R shape facing the corresponding first discharge channel 221 and second discharge channel 222. On the other hand, one of the valve body facing walls 131a, 132a of each valve body 131, 132 can also be formed in a tapered shape or an R shape facing the corresponding first discharge channel 221 and second discharge channel 222.

[0083] (2) In each of the above embodiments, both of the converging inner walls 121a and 122a of the valve holes 16 and 17 of each valve seat 121 and 122 are tapered or R-shaped. In contrast, one of the converging inner walls 121a and 122a of each valve seat 121 and 122 can also be tapered or R-shaped.

[0084] (3) In each of the above embodiments, both of the valve seat facing walls 131b and 132b of each valve body 131 and 132 are R-shaped or tapered so as to converge toward the corresponding valve holes 16 and 17. In contrast, one of the valve seat facing walls 131b and 132b of each valve body 131 and 132 can also be R-shaped or tapered so as to converge toward the corresponding valve holes 16 and 17.

Industrial Applicability

[0085] This disclosed technology can be used in a fluid circuit of a cooling system mounted on an electric vehicle or the like.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0086] 1 Valve device 11 Flow path housing (flow path member) 12 Valve seat 121 First valve seat 121a Converging inner wall 121b Valve seat rib 121c Valve seat groove 122 Second valve seat 122a Converging inner wall 122b Valve seat rib 13 Valve body 131 First valve body 131a Valve body facing wall 131b Valve seat facing wall 132 Second valve body 132a Valve body facing wall 132b Valve seat facing wall 14 Valve shaft 15 Actuator (drive unit) 16 First valve hole 17 Second valve hole 18 First seal member 19 Second seal member 20 Valve chamber (inlet passage) 21 Inlet passage 22 Outlet passage 221 First outlet passage 222 Second outlet passage 26 Spacing 33 Bobbin (holding member) 40 Connecting part 80 Electric vehicle 81 Cooling system L1 Virtual continuous line

Claims

1. A flow path member, An introduction flow path formed in the flow path member for introducing a fluid, A first discharge flow path formed in the flow path member for discharging the fluid introduced from the introduction flow path, A second discharge flow path formed in the flow path member for discharging the fluid introduced from the introduction flow path, A first valve seat provided between the introduction flow path and the first discharge flow path in the flow path member, A second valve seat provided between the introduction flow path and the second discharge flow path in the flow path member, A first valve body that abuts and separates from the first valve seat, A second valve body that abuts and separates from the second valve seat, A valve shaft to which the first valve body and the second valve body are attached, A drive unit for driving the valve shaft In a valve device provided with, A predetermined interval is provided between the first valve body and the second valve body, In the interval, each valve body has a valve body facing wall facing each other, At least a part of the circumferential direction of each valve body facing wall has a tapered shape or an R shape extending from the valve shaft toward the corresponding discharge flow path A valve device characterized by this.

2. In the valve device according to Claim 1, A first valve hole formed in the first valve seat, A second valve hole formed in the second valve seat With, On at least one of the valve seats, a converging inner wall having an R shape or a tapered shape converging from the introduction flow path to the corresponding valve hole is provided A valve device characterized by this.

3. In the valve device according to Claim 2, On each valve body, a seal member is provided at the contact portion with the corresponding valve seat, On at least one valve body side opening edge of each valve hole, an annular valve seat ridge that can contact the seal member is provided, A valve seat groove is formed in the converging inner wall inside the valve seat ridge, The opening of the valve seat groove is formed following a virtual continuous line continuous with the R shape or the tapered shape of the converging inner wall, and the virtual continuous line is connected to the tip of the valve seat ridge A valve device characterized by this.

4. In the valve device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, Each valve body has a valve seat facing wall facing the corresponding valve seat, At least one of the valve seat facing walls has an R shape or a tapered shape converging toward the corresponding valve hole A valve device characterized by this.

5. In the valve device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, The first valve seat is integrally formed with a holding member separate from the flow path member, The holding member has a connecting portion that extends in the same axial direction as the valve shaft at the connection portion between the introduction flow path and the first discharge flow path and is connected to the first valve seat. A valve device characterized by the above. **Claim 6** In the valve device according to claim 5, the holding member is provided integrally with the driving portion A valve device characterized by the above. **Claim 7** In the valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the valve device is used in a cooling system mounted on an electric vehicle A valve device characterized by the above.

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