Valve device

Abstract

To provide a valve device having a valve seat constructed integrally with a drive part, for reducing the pressure loss in a downstream side flow path of the valve seat and suppressing a deterioration in responsibility of a valve element due to the compression in an internal space of the drive part when the valve element is opened / closed.SOLUTION: A valve device 1 includes: a flow path housing 11 including a plurality of flow paths 21, 221, 222; a valve part 6 for opening / closing the flow paths 221, 222 of the flow path housing 11; and an actuator 15 for driving the valve part 6. The valve part 6 includes valve seats 121, 122, valve elements 131, 132, a valve stem 14, and a compression spring 37. In the flow path 221 of the flow path housing 11, a flow path adapter 41 is arranged including the valve seat 121. The flow path adapter 41 includes: an inner flow path wall 42 which is provided integrally with the valve seat 121 to form an inner flow path 45 and having an insertion hole 42a and into which a valve stem 14 is inserted; an engaging part 43 engageable with the flow path housing 11; and a connection wall 44 which links the inner flow path wall 42 and the engagement part 43 to each other. The inner flow path wall 42 at the side of the actuator 15 has an adapter space 46 between the inner flow path wall 42 and the connection wall 44.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

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, a "valve device" described in Patent Document 1 below is known. FIG. 15 shows this valve device in a sectional view. This valve device generally includes an on-off valve (valve portion) 61 and a solenoid (drive portion) 62.

[0003] The valve portion 61 faces a valve chamber 64 formed in a valve housing (flow path housing) 63, and includes a valve seat 65 disposed in the housing 63 with a valve hole 65a opened at the central portion, a valve body 67 housed in the valve chamber 64 and biased by a spring 66 to close the valve hole 65a when seated on the valve seat 65 and to open the valve hole 65a, and a valve shaft 68 penetrating through the valve hole 65a in an axially movable manner and connected to the valve body 67.

[0004] The drive portion 62 includes a movable core 69 coaxially connected to the valve shaft 68, a fixed core 70 coaxially opposed to the movable core 69, a coil assembly 73 formed by winding a coil 72 around a bobbin 71 surrounding the movable core 69 and the fixed core 70, a solenoid housing 74 formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape so as to cover the coil assembly 73, magnetically coupled to the fixed core 70, and coupled to the flow path housing 63, and an end plate 75 magnetically coupled to the housing 74 with the coil assembly 73 sandwiched between the end plate 75 and the closed end of the housing 74.

[0005] This valve device further includes a mold sealing member 76. The mold sealing member 76 is configured by integrally connecting a valve seat forming member 77 and a coil sealing portion 78. The valve seat forming member 77 is integrally formed with a first partition wall 77a and a second partition wall 77b via a plurality of support walls 77c. The first partition wall 77a forms a valve chamber 64 between itself and the flow path housing 63 and is fitted into the housing 63, and constitutes a valve seat 65 that surrounds the valve hole 65a and the opening end of the valve hole 65a on the valve chamber side. The second partition wall 77b forms a space 79 that always communicates with the valve hole 65a between itself and the first partition wall 77a and is fitted into the flow path housing 63.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] By the way, the valve device described in Patent Document 1 is a technique for integrally forming a coil assembly 73 (drive unit 62) and a valve seat forming member 77. However, since a plurality of support walls 77c that support the valve seat 65 are arranged in the space 79 on the downstream side of the valve seat 65, these support walls 77c inhibit the flow of fluid and cause a pressure loss in the flow path. In addition, the volume of the space (core space) in the solenoid housing 74 was small and there was little spatial margin. Therefore, when the valve body 67 is opened and closed, when the core space is compressed as the movable core 69 moves, there is a concern that the internal pressure rises and impairs the responsiveness of the valve body 67.

[0008] This disclosed technology has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to reduce the pressure loss in the flow path on the downstream side of the valve seat in a valve device in which the valve seat is integrally configured with the drive unit, and to suppress deterioration of the responsiveness of the valve body due to compression of the space in the drive unit when the valve body is opened and closed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] In order to achieve the above object, the technology according to claim 1 is a valve device including a flow path member including a plurality of flow paths, a valve portion for opening and closing the flow paths of the flow path member, and a drive portion fixed to the flow path member for driving the valve portion. The valve portion includes a valve seat provided in the flow path of the flow path member and having a valve hole at the center, a valve body that opens and closes the valve hole by seating on and separating from the valve seat, a valve shaft connected to the valve body to move the valve body axially with respect to the valve seat, and a biasing member for biasing the valve body together with the valve shaft in a direction of seating on the valve seat or separating from the valve seat. The drive portion includes a movable core coaxially connected to the valve shaft and movable together with the valve shaft, a fixed core coaxially opposed to the movable core and fixed to the flow path member, a coil assembly component provided so as to surround the movable core and the fixed core and having a coil wound around a bobbin, and a coil sealing member integrally provided with a coupler that covers the coil and is mold-bonded to the coil assembly component and has terminals connected to the coil. In the flow path of the flow path member, a flow path adapter including the valve seat is disposed. The flow path adapter is integrally provided with the valve seat and includes an inner flow path wall forming an inner flow path and having an insertion hole through which the valve shaft is inserted, an engaging portion enabling engagement with the flow path member, and a connecting wall connecting between the inner flow path wall and the engaging portion. A predetermined adapter space is provided between the side of the inner flow path wall facing the drive portion and the connecting wall.

[0010] According to the configuration of the above technology, in a valve device including a flow path member including a plurality of flow paths, a valve portion for opening and closing the flow paths, and a drive portion fixed to the flow path member for driving the valve portion, a flow path adapter including the valve seat is disposed in the flow path of the flow path member. The flow path adapter includes an inner flow path wall integrally formed with the valve seat and having an inner flow path and an insertion hole for the valve shaft, an engaging portion engageable with the flow path member, and a connecting wall connecting the inner flow path wall and the engaging portion. Therefore, when the flow path adapter engages with the flow path member via the engaging portion, the valve seat is configured integrally with the drive portion. Also, regardless of the shape of the flow path of the flow path member, the inner flow path can be formed into a flow path with less resistance. Further, the volume communicating with the internal space on the side of the drive portion is increased by the adapter space provided between the inner flow path wall and the connecting wall.

[0011] To achieve the above object, the technique according to claim 2 is, in the technique according to claim 1, characterized in that the adapter space has a pocket portion extending to the side opposite to the drive portion, and a communication hole communicating with the flow path of the flow path member is provided in the connection wall forming the pocket portion.

[0012] According to the configuration of the above technique, in addition to the action of the technique according to claim 1, if foreign matter enters the adapter space by any chance, it will move to the pocket portion on the side opposite to the drive portion by its own weight or the like, and can be discharged from the communication hole in the connection wall to the flow path of the flow path member.

[0013] To achieve the above object, the technique according to claim 3 is, in the technique according to claim 1, characterized in that the movable core is provided with a breathing hole communicating the core space between the fixed core and the adapter space.

[0014] According to the configuration of the above technique, in addition to the action of the technique according to claim 1, since the movable core is provided with a breathing hole, when the internal space of the drive portion is compressed by the movement of the movable core, the fluid in the internal space is discharged from the breathing hole to the adapter space by the breathing action.

[0015] To achieve the above object, the technique according to claim 4 is, in the technique according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the flow path member includes a first flow path communicating with the side of the drive portion and a second flow path communicating with the side opposite to the drive portion, the valve shaft has a diameter-expanded portion that expands in the radial direction, and the diameter-expanded portion is slidably supported on the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole when at least the first flow path is opened by the valve portion.

[0016] According to the configuration of the above technique, in addition to the action of the technique according to any one of claims 1 to 3, when at least the first flow path is opened by the valve portion, the movement of the valve shaft is supported by the sliding of the diameter-expanded portion in the insertion hole.

[0017] To achieve the above object, the technique according to claim 5 is, in the technique according to claim 4, characterized in that the diameter-expanded portion is provided so as to open the insertion hole when the first flow path is closed.

[0018] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the operation of the technology described in claim 4, when the first flow path is closed, the diameter-expanded portion opens the insertion hole. Therefore, when the first flow path is closed, the adapter space communicates with the inner flow path through the insertion hole.

[0019] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 6 is, in the technology described in claim 5, characterized in that on the inner flow path wall, at least a part of the periphery of the opening on the adapter space side of the insertion hole is provided with a guide wall extending toward the drive part. is the gist.

[0020] According to the configuration of the above technology, in addition to the operation of the technology described in claim 5, on the inner flow path wall, at least a part of the periphery of the opening on the adapter space side of the insertion hole is provided with a guide wall extending toward the drive part. Therefore, when the first flow path is closed, the adapter space inside the guide wall communicates with the first flow path through the insertion hole.

[0021] In order 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 drive part is configured to be arranged in a plurality of directions in the circumferential direction of the valve shaft with respect to the flow path member.

[0022] 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, it is possible to change the direction of the drive part in the flow path member in a plurality of ways.

[0023] In order to achieve the above object, the technology described in claim 8 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.

[0024] According to the configuration of the above technology, as a valve device used in a cooling system mounted on an electric vehicle, an operation equivalent to that of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3 can be obtained.

Effects of the Invention

[0025] According to the technology described in claim 1, in a valve device in which a valve seat is integrally formed with a drive unit, it is possible to reduce the pressure loss in the downstream flow path of the valve seat, and when the valve body opens and closes, it is possible to suppress deterioration of the responsiveness of the valve body due to compression of the internal space of the drive unit.

[0026] According to the technology described in claim 2, in addition to the effects of the technology described in claim 1, it is possible to prevent the accumulation of foreign matter in the pocket portion, suppress the intrusion of foreign matter into the drive unit, and suppress the sticking of the movable core due to the biting of foreign matter.

[0027] According to the technology described in claim 3, in addition to the effects of the technology described in claim 1, even if foreign matter has entered the internal space of the drive unit, the foreign matter can be actively discharged from the breathing hole to the adapter space.

[0028] According to the technology described in claim 4, in addition to the effects of the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3, it is possible to suppress the inclination of the valve shaft when at least the first flow path is opened.

[0029] According to the technology described in claim 5, in addition to the effects of the technology described in claim 4, when the first flow path is closed, foreign matter that has entered or accumulated in the adapter space can be discharged from the insertion hole to the internal flow path and the first flow path.

[0030] According to the technology described in claim 6, in addition to the effects of the technology described in claim 5, when the first flow path is closed, foreign matter that has entered or accumulated in the adapter space inside the guide wall can be more reliably discharged from the insertion hole to the internal flow path and the first flow path along the guide wall.

[0031] 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, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom in mounting the valve device in a predetermined system.

[0032] According to the technology described in claim 8, as a valve device used in a cooling system mounted on an electric vehicle, it is possible to obtain the same effects as the technology described in any one of claims 1 to 3.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0033]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

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Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0034] Hereinafter, several embodiments in which the "valve device" of this disclosed technology is embodied will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0035] <First Embodiment> First, the valve device of the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.

[0036] [Regarding the schematic 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 plurality of flow paths, a valve portion 6 for opening and closing the flow paths of the flow path housing 11, and an actuator 15 fixed to the flow path housing 11 for driving the valve portion 6.

[0037] This valve device 1 constitutes a three-way valve, and the flow path housing 11 includes a valve chamber 20 that houses a valve body 13 to be described later, 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.

[0038] 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 communicates with the valve chamber 20 on the side of the actuator 15 and corresponds to an example of the "first flow path" of this disclosed technology. The second discharge flow path 222 communicates with the valve chamber 20 on the side opposite to the actuator 15 and corresponds to an example of the "second flow path" of this disclosed technology.

[0039] [Regarding the valve portion] The valve portion 6 includes a valve seat 12, a valve body 13, a valve shaft 14, and a compression spring 37. The valve seat 12 provided in the flow path housing 11 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 in their central portions respectively. Note that the valve seat 12 is formed of resin, but it can also be formed of rubber.

[0040] The valve body 13 is attached to the lower end portion of the valve shaft 14 and opens and closes the first valve hole 16 and the second valve hole 17 by seating on 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 arranged with a gap 26 therebetween 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. When the valve seat 12 is formed of rubber, the seal members 18, 19 may not be provided.

[0041] 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, the other end side of the valve shaft 14 is disposed in the valve chamber 20, and is connected to each of the valve bodies 131, 132 to move each of the valve bodies 131, 132 axially with respect to the corresponding valve seats 121, 122. 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.

[0042] The compression spring 37 is disposed within the actuator 15 and biases the valve shaft 14 downward in FIGS. 1 and 2 on the outer periphery of the valve shaft 14. That is, the compression spring 37 biases the valve shaft 14 together with the first valve body 131 in a direction away from the corresponding first valve seat 121 or biases the second valve body 132 in a direction to seat on the corresponding second valve seat 122. The compression spring 37 corresponds to an example of the "biasing member" of this disclosed technology.

[0043] [Regarding the actuator] 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 "driving part" 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.

[0044] The movable core 31 is coaxially connected to the valve shaft 14 and is movable in the axial direction together with the valve shaft 14. On the valve shaft 14 directly below the movable core 31, a cylindrical enlarged diameter portion 14a having a larger outer diameter than others is formed. By the upper end of this enlarged diameter portion 14a abutting against the lower end of the movable core 31, the movable core 31 is connected to the valve shaft 14 (the upper end of the enlarged diameter portion 14a does not necessarily have to abut against the lower end of the movable core 31). The fixed core 32 faces the movable core 31 coaxially and is fixed to the flow path housing 11. 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. The compression spring 37 is provided on the outer periphery of the valve shaft 14 between the thrust bearing 36 and the movable core 31. The compression spring 37 corresponds to an example of the "biasing member" of this disclosed technology.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a core space 40 is formed between the movable core 31 and the fixed core 32. A breathing hole 31a that communicates the core space 40 and the adapter space 46 is provided at the bottom (lower end portion) of the movable core 31.

[0046] The movable core 31 and the fixed core 32 are formed of a magnetic material (e.g., 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.

[0047] The bobbin 33 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and a coil assembly part 38 is formed by winding the coil 34 on the outside. The bobbin 33 is provided so as to surround the movable core 31 and the fixed core 32. After winding the coil 34 around the bobbin 33, it is molded with resin to form a resin casing 35. The resin casing 35 covers the coil 34 and is molded and coupled to the coil assembly part 38. A coupler 35a protruding laterally is integrally formed on the casing 35. Terminals 34a connected to the coil 34 are arranged on the coupler 35a. The casing 35 corresponds to an example of the "coil sealing member" of this disclosed technology.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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. Furthermore, 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] [Regarding the flow path adapter] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a flow path adapter 41 including a first valve seat 121 is disposed in the first lead-out flow path 221 of the flow path housing 11. FIG. 3 shows the flow path adapter 41 in a cross-sectional view. As shown in FIG. 3, the flow path adapter 41 is generally cylindrical in shape and includes an inner flow path wall 42, an engaging portion 43, and a connecting wall 44, which are provided integrally with the first valve seat 121. The inner flow path wall 42 forms an inner flow path 45 inside the first lead-out flow path 221 and has an insertion hole 42a through which the valve shaft 14 is inserted. The inner flow path 45 smoothly bends in an arc shape to change the direction of the flow path by 90°. The engaging portion 43 enables engagement with the flow path housing 11. The connecting wall 44 connects between the inner flow path wall 42 and the engaging portion 43. The connecting wall 44 is generally cylindrical in shape and opens to the side of the actuator 15. The engaging portion 43 is formed in a flange shape at the opening of the connecting wall 44. Then, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a predetermined adapter space 46 is provided between the inner flow path wall 42 and the connecting wall 44 on the side of the inner flow path wall 42 facing the actuator 15. In FIGS. 1 and 2, this adapter space 46 is surrounded by the inner flow path wall 42, the connecting wall 44, the movable core 31, and the enlarged diameter portion 14a. As shown in FIG. 3, the adapter space 46 has a pocket portion 46a that partially extends on the side opposite to the actuator 15.

[0052] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the enlarged diameter portion 14a of the valve shaft 14 is slidably supported on the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 42a of the inner flow path wall 42 both when the first lead-out flow path 221 is opened by the valve portion 6 and when the second lead-out flow path 222 is opened. Also, the enlarged diameter portion 14a of the valve shaft 14 is slidably supported on the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 42a of the inner flow path wall 42 both when the first lead-out flow path 221 is closed by the valve portion 6 and when the second lead-out flow path 222 is closed.

[0053] [Connection between the flow path adapter and the actuator] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in this embodiment, the flow path housing 11 and the actuator 15 are fastened via a plurality (four in this embodiment) of bolts 8. That is, a flange 35b is provided at the lower end of the casing 35, and a flange 11a is provided at the upper end of the flow path housing 11. These flanges 35b and 11a are fastened by a plurality of bolts 8. And between these flanges 35b and 11a, the engaging portion 43 of the flow path adapter 41 is clamped together with the plate-shaped yoke 39.

[0054] Here, the bobbin 33 of the actuator 15 is separate from the yoke 39 and is pressed against the upper surface of the yoke 39. FIG. 4 shows the bobbin 33, the yoke 39, and the flow path adapter 41 in an exploded perspective view. As shown in FIG. 4, the yoke 39 is sandwiched between the bobbin 33 and the flow path adapter 41, and the bobbin 33 and the yoke 39 can rotate integrally in the circumferential direction. By rotating the bobbin 33 and the yoke 39 integrally, the position of the terminal 34a protruding laterally at the upper end of the bobbin 33 can be changed in the circumferential direction with respect to the flow path adapter 41. With this configuration, the actuator 15 is configured to be arranged in a plurality of directions in the circumferential direction of the valve shaft 14. That is, in FIGS. 1 and 2, the orientation of the coupler 35a of the casing 35 surrounding the terminal 34a can be arranged in a plurality of directions in the circumferential direction of the valve shaft 14. In this embodiment, since four bolt holes 43a and 39a for the bolts 8 are formed in the engaging portion 43 of the flow path adapter 41 and the yoke 39 respectively, the orientation of the actuator 15 can be changed in four directions. In this embodiment, the bobbin 33 and the yoke 39 are configured separately, but they 33 and 39 can also be configured integrally. Since the flow path adapter 41 is fitted into the first outlet flow path 221 of the flow path housing 11, the assembly of the flow path adapter 41 and the flow path housing 11 is fixed in one direction.

[0055] [Regarding the shape of the valve body] Next, the shape of the valve body 13 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a predetermined interval 26 is provided between the first valve body 131 and the second valve body 132. In this interval 26, the wall surfaces of the first valve body 131 and the second valve body 132 facing each other are each flat.

[0056] Also, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, for each valve body 131, 132, the wall surface facing the corresponding valve seat 121, 122 has an R shape or a tapered shape that converges toward the corresponding valve hole 16, 17.

[0057] [Regarding the shape of the valve seat] Next, the shape of the valve seat 12 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the seal surface of the first valve seat 121 facing the first valve body 131 is annular and flat. Also, the second valve seat 122 is formed in the flow path housing 11, and the seal surface of the second valve seat 122 facing the second valve body 132 is also annular and flat. The seal surfaces of the first valve seat 121 and the second valve seat 122 do not have to be flat surfaces and may be partially convex.

[0058] [Regarding an example of use of the valve device] An example of use of the valve device 1 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 shows an example of use of the above-described valve device 1 in a circuit diagram. As shown in FIG. 5, 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.

[0059] In this embodiment, the valve device 1 includes a first valve device 82 and a second valve device 83. 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 through which the refrigerant circulates. The main pipe 90 includes a first pipe section 90a, a second pipe section 90b, and a third pipe section 90c.

[0060] 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 section 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 section 90b. In the middle of the second pipe section 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 section 90b 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 section 90c. The radiator 88 is arranged in the middle of the third pipe section 90c. The first outlet 83b of the second valve device 83 is connected to the third pipe section 90c immediately upstream of the suction port 89b of the electric pump 89 via the second bypass pipe 92.

[0061] 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.

[0062] In this embodiment, the flow path is switched to the first to third flow path patterns by switching the valve devices 82 and 83. 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. As a result, the refrigerant discharged from the electric pump 89 flows sequentially 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 cycle. This first flow path pattern is switched during low-speed operation in spring and autumn to keep the temperature of the battery 85 appropriate.

[0063] 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. As a result, the refrigerant discharged from the electric pump 89 flows sequentially 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 cycle. This second flow path pattern is switched when the temperature is high in summer or when the battery 85 is generating heat, and is configured to cool the battery 85.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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 temperatures 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".

[0066] [Operation and Effect of Valve Device and Cooling System Equipped Therewith] According to the configuration of the valve device 1 of this embodiment described above, in the valve device 1 including a flow path housing 11 having a plurality of flow paths 21, 221, 222, a valve portion 6 that opens and closes the flow paths 221, 222 of the flow path housing 11, and an actuator 15 fixed to the flow path housing 11 to drive the valve portion 6, a flow path adapter 41 including a first valve seat 121 is disposed in the first lead-out flow path 221 of the flow path housing 11. The flow path adapter 41 includes an inner flow path wall 42 that is integral with the first valve seat 121 and has an inner flow path 45 and an insertion hole 42a for the valve shaft 14, an engaging portion 43 that can engage with the flow path housing 11, and a connecting wall 44 that connects the inner flow path wall 42 and the engaging portion. Therefore, when the flow path adapter 41 engages with the flow path housing 11 via the engaging portion 43, the first valve seat 121 is configured integrally with the actuator 15. Further, regardless of the shape of the flow path in the flow path housing 11, the inner flow path 45 can be formed into a flow path with less resistance. Furthermore, the volume communicating with the internal space (core space 40) on the actuator 15 side is enlarged by an adapter space 46 provided between the inner flow path wall 42 and the connecting wall 44. For this reason, in the valve device 1 in which the first valve seat 121 is configured integrally with the actuator 15, the pressure loss of the downstream flow path of the first valve seat 121 can be reduced, and when the valve body 13 is opened and closed, the deterioration of the responsiveness of the valve body 13 due to the compression of the internal space of the actuator 15 can be suppressed.

[0067] According to the configuration of this embodiment, since the downstream side of the first valve seat 121 is formed in the inner flow path 45 curved by the inner flow path wall 42, there are no stagnant portions or resistive substances in that portion, and the flow path pressure loss can be reduced.

[0068] According to the configuration of this embodiment, since the inner flow path wall 42 is provided on the downstream side of the first valve seat 121, the fluid passing through the first valve seat 121 does not directly hit the movable core 31, and foreign matters (such as resin processing powder or metal burr pieces) in the first outlet flow path 221 are less likely to enter the inside of the movable core 31 or the fixed core 32. Even if, by any chance, foreign matters enter the adapter space 46 from the gap between the enlarged diameter portion 14a of the valve shaft 14 and the insertion hole 42a, the foreign matters are trapped in the adapter space 46, so that the intrusion of foreign matters into the inside (such as the core space 40) of the movable core 31 or the fixed core 32 can be suppressed. Here, since there is no fluid flow in the adapter space 46, the intruded foreign matters will accumulate and be trapped in the pocket portion 46a of the adapter space 46 due to their own weight or the like.

[0069] Also, according to the configuration of this embodiment, when the first outlet flow path 221 is opened by the valve portion 6 and when the second outlet flow path 222 is opened, the movement of the valve shaft 14 is supported by the sliding of the enlarged diameter portion 14a in the insertion hole 42a of the inner flow path wall 42. That is, when the valve portion 6 is opened and closed, the lower portion of the valve shaft 14 is always supported by the sliding of the enlarged diameter portion 14a in the insertion hole 42a. Therefore, the inclination of the valve shaft 14 can be suppressed both when the first outlet flow path 221 and the second outlet flow path 222 are opened by the valve portion 6. That is, the inner flow path wall 42 functions as a bearing for the lower portion of the valve shaft 14, and the inclination of the valve shaft 14 can be suppressed.

[0070] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, since the breathing hole 31a is provided in the movable core 31, when the internal space (such as the core space 40) of the actuator 15 is compressed by the movement of the movable core 31, the fluid in the internal space is discharged from the breathing hole 31a to the adapter space 46 by the breathing action. Therefore, even if foreign matters have entered the internal space of the actuator 15, those foreign matters can be actively discharged from the breathing hole 31a to the adapter space 46.

[0071] FIG. 6 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the valve device 1 in the first valve opening state. FIG. 7 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the valve device 1 in the second valve opening state. In FIGS. 6 and 7, if the internal space formed by the movable core 31 and the fixed core 32 is defined as the core internal space, and the space formed between the bobbin 33 and the flow path adapter 41 is defined as the bobbin internal space, the breathing volume associated with the vertical movement of the valve body 13 and the movable core 31 is as follows. That is, in FIG. 6, the volumes of the three spaces SC shown with hatching correspond to the core internal breathing volume of the core internal space. On the other hand, in FIG. 7, the volume of the single space SB shown with hatching corresponds to the bobbin internal breathing volume of the bobbin internal space. Here, the core internal breathing volume is clearly larger than the bobbin internal breathing volume.

[0072] Therefore, when the movable core 31 rises from the state shown in FIG. 6, turbulence occurs in the bobbin internal space. And even if foreign matter is discharged from the core internal space to the bobbin internal space, the foreign matter floats due to the turbulence in the bobbin internal space. On the other hand, when the movable core 31 descends from the state shown in FIG. 7, foreign matter remains in the vicinity of the valve shaft 14 in the bobbin internal space. Therefore, there is a concern that the foreign matter will be inhaled into the core internal space again.

[0073] In contrast, in this embodiment, in FIGS. 6 and 7, since the adapter space 46 is inclined to the right to expand the volume, the turbulence of the discharge from the core internal space to the bobbin internal space is attenuated, and foreign matter can be precipitated in the lower pocket portion 46a where the turbulence does not reach.

[0074] In addition, according to the configuration of this embodiment, by rotating the bobbin 33 and the yoke 39 integrally, the position of the bobbin 33 can be changed in the circumferential direction with respect to the flow path adapter 41. That is, the actuator 15 is configured to be arranged in a plurality (four directions in this embodiment) of directions in the circumferential direction of the valve shaft 14 with respect to the flow path housing 11. That is, it is possible to change the direction of the coupler 35a protruding laterally from the casing 35 of the actuator 15 in the flow path housing 11 in a plurality of ways in the circumferential direction. For this reason, the degree of freedom in mounting the valve device 1 (valve devices 82, 83) in the cooling system 81 of this embodiment can be improved.

[0075] In addition, according to the configuration of this embodiment, as the valve device 1 (82, 83) used in the cooling system 81 mounted on the electric vehicle 80, an operation equivalent to the above operation can be obtained, and an effect equivalent to the above effect can be obtained.

[0076] <Second Embodiment> Next, the valve device of the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10. In the following description, the same reference numerals are 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 differences.

[0077] [Configuration of Flow Path Adapter and Valve Shaft] In this embodiment, it is different from the first embodiment in terms of the configurations of the flow path adapter 41 and the valve shaft 14. FIG. 8 shows the valve device 1 in the first valve-opening state of this embodiment by a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 1. FIG. 9 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the portion of the valve device 1 in FIG. 8 surrounded by the chain line rectangle S2. FIG. 10 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the valve device 1 in the second valve-opening state similar to FIG. 9. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8 to 10, when the first outlet flow path 221 is closed by the first valve body 131 in the second valve-opening state of the valve device 1, that is, the enlarged diameter portion 14a of the valve shaft 14 is provided so as to open the insertion hole 42a of the inner flow path wall 42 of the flow path adapter 41. For this purpose, the axial movable range of the valve shaft 14 and the axial length of the enlarged diameter portion 14a are set to predetermined dimensions. Thereby, when the first outlet flow path 221 is opened, the enlarged diameter portion 14a of the valve shaft 14 slides on the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 42a, and when the first outlet flow path 221 is closed, it separates from the insertion hole 42a and opens the insertion hole 42a.

[0078] [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, when the first outlet flow path 221 is closed by the valve portion 6, the enlarged diameter portion 14a of the valve shaft 14 opens the insertion hole 42a of the inner flow path wall 42. Therefore, when the first outlet flow path 221 is closed, as shown in FIG. 10, the adapter space 46 communicates with the inner flow path 45 through the insertion hole 42a. For this reason, when the first outlet flow path 221 is closed, foreign matters that have entered or deposited in the adapter space 46 due to the breathing action caused by the movement of the movable core 31 can be discharged from the insertion hole 42a to the inner flow path 45 and the first outlet flow path 221. It should be noted that when the first outlet flow path 221 is closed by the valve portion 6, since no fluid flows in the inner flow path 45, it is considered that no foreign matter will enter the adapter space 46 even if the insertion hole 42a is opened.

[0079] Moreover, according to the configuration of this embodiment, since the diameter-expanded portion 14a becomes shorter in the axial direction and the amount of protrusion into the internal flow path 45 is reduced accordingly (see FIG. 9), the pressure loss in the internal flow path 45 can be reduced. Further, even if the diameter-expanded portion 14a moves slightly from the state shown in FIG. 9 and the insertion hole 42a is opened, since the gap between the valve shaft 14 and the insertion hole 42a is narrow, it is difficult for foreign matter to enter the adapter space 46 even when fluid flows in the internal flow path 45.

[0080] <Third Embodiment> Next, the valve device of the third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 11.

[0081] [Configuration of Flow Path Adapter] In this embodiment, it is different from the second embodiment in terms of the configuration of the flow path adapter 41. FIG. 11 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 10 of a part of the valve device 1 in the second valve-opening state of this embodiment. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, on the inner flow path wall 42, a guide wall 47 extending toward the actuator 15 is provided at least in part around the opening on the adapter space 46 side of the insertion hole 42a. The guide wall 47 is formed so as not to interfere with the diameter-expanded portion 14a and the movable core 31, and so that the breathing hole 31a of the movable core 31 opens inside the guide wall 47.

[0082] [Operation and Effects of Valve Device] According to the configuration of the valve device 1 of this embodiment described above, different from the second embodiment, on the inner flow path wall 42, a guide wall 47 extending toward the actuator 15 is provided at least in part around the opening on the adapter space 46 side of the insertion hole 42a. Therefore, when the first lead-out flow path 221 is closed, the adapter space 46 inside the guide wall 47 communicates with the first lead-out flow path 221 through the insertion hole 42a. For this reason, when the first lead-out flow path 221 is closed, foreign matter that has entered or accumulated in the adapter space 46 inside the guide wall 47 can be more reliably discharged from the insertion hole 42a along the guide wall 47 into the internal flow path 45 and the first lead-out flow path 221.

[0083] <Fourth Embodiment> Next, the valve device of the fourth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0084] [Configuration of valve shaft and movable core] In this embodiment, it is mainly different from the above embodiments in the configuration of the valve shaft 14 and the movable core 31. FIG. 12 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the valve device 1 in the first valve-opening state of this embodiment. FIG. 13 shows the valve shaft 14 and the like in a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 12. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the axial length of the enlarged-diameter portion 14a of the valve shaft 14 is short, and the entire enlarged-diameter portion 14a is disposed in the adapter space 46 of the flow path adapter 41 and abuts against the lower surface of the movable core 31. Further, the valve shaft 14 other than the enlarged-diameter portion 14a is slidably inserted into the insertion hole 42a of the inner flow path wall 42 of the flow path adapter 41, and the inner diameter of the insertion hole 42a is smaller than the inner diameter of the other embodiments.

[0085] Also, in this embodiment, the opening of the breathing hole 31a of the movable core 31 is disposed facing the connection wall 44 on the side of the movable core 31. The lower part of the connection wall 44 forms a pocket portion 46a of the adapter space 46.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the upper cross-section of the valve shaft 14 has a double-width shape composed of two opposing planes and two opposing curved surfaces, and accordingly, the inner surface of the thrust bearing 36 also has a double-width shape.

[0087] [Operation and effect of valve device] According to the configuration of the valve device 1 of this embodiment described above, different from the above embodiments, the valve shaft 14 other than the enlarged-diameter portion 14a is slidably inserted into the insertion hole 42a of the inner flow path wall 42 of the flow path adapter 41, and the inner diameter of the insertion hole 42a is smaller than the inner diameter of the above embodiments. Therefore, the breathing volume between the inner flow path 45 and the adapter space 46 is reduced due to the movement of the movable core 31. In this sense, the intrusion of foreign matter from the adapter space 46 into the inside of the movable core 31 can be further suppressed.

[0088] In this embodiment, the upper part of the valve shaft 14 has a two-sided width shape, and accordingly, the inner surface of the thrust bearing 36 has a two-sided width shape. Therefore, the rotation of the valve shaft 14 can be restricted. Further, since the opening of the breathing hole 31a of the movable core 31 faces from the movable core 31 toward the connection wall 44, foreign matter discharged from the breathing hole 31a can be guided to the pocket portion 46a along the connection wall 44.

[0089] <Fifth Embodiment> Next, the valve device of the fifth embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 14.

[0090] [Configuration of Flow Path Adapter] In this embodiment, it is different from the first embodiment in terms of the configuration of the flow path adapter 41. FIG. 14 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 9 of a part of the valve device 1 in the first valve opening state of this embodiment. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, in the case of the flow path adapter 41, a communication hole 44a communicating with the first lead-out flow path 221 of the flow path housing 11 is provided in the connection wall 44 forming the adapter space 46. This communication hole 44a opens at the connection wall 44 corresponding to the bottom of the adapter space 46, that is, the pocket portion 46a.

[0091] [Operation and Effects of Valve Device] According to the configuration of the valve device 1 of this embodiment described above, different from the first embodiment, in the unlikely event that foreign matter enters the adapter space 46, it moves by its own weight or the like to the pocket portion 46a on the side opposite to the actuator 15 and can be discharged from the communication hole 44a of the connection wall 44 to the first lead-out flow path 221 of the flow path housing 11. Therefore, the accumulation of foreign matter in the pocket portion 46a can be prevented, the intrusion of foreign matter into the actuator 15 can be suppressed, and the fixing of the movable core 31 due to the biting of foreign matter can be suppressed.

[0092] In this embodiment, since the communication hole 44a is provided in the connection wall 44 corresponding to the bottom of the adapter space 46, that is, the pocket portion 46a, unlike the first embodiment, the bottom of the pocket portion 46a can be made flat. Therefore, there is no acute angle portion between the inner flow path wall 42 and the connection wall 44, and the flow path adapter 41 can be easily molded.

[0093] <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.

[0094] (1) In the first embodiment, the enlarged diameter portion 14a of the valve shaft 14 is configured to be slidably supported by the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole 42a of the inner flow path wall 42 both when the first outlet flow path 221 and the second outlet flow path 222 are opened by the valve portion 6. On the other hand, it can also be configured such that the enlarged diameter portion of the valve shaft is slidably supported by the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole of the inner flow path wall only when the first outlet flow path is opened by the valve portion.

[0095] (2) In each of the above embodiments, the valve device 1 is configured as a three-way valve, but it is not limited thereto.

Industrial applicability

[0096] 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

[0097] 1 Valve device 6 Valve portion 11 Flow path housing (flow path member) 11a Flange 12 Valve seat 121 First valve seat 122 Second valve seat 13 Valve body 131 First valve body 132 Second valve body 14 Valve shaft 14a Enlarged diameter portion 15 Actuator (drive unit) 16 First valve hole 17 Second valve hole 21 Introduction flow path 22 Outlet flow path 221 First outlet flow path 222 Second outlet flow path 31 Movable core 31a Breathing hole 32 Fixed core 33 Bobbin 34 Coil 34a Terminal 35 Casing (coil sealing member) 35a Coupler 37 Compression spring (biasing member) 38 Coil assembly parts 40 Core space 41 Flow path adapter 42 Inner flow path wall 42a Insertion hole 43 Engagement part 43a Bolt hole 44 Connection wall 44a Communication hole 45 Inner flow path 46 Adapter space 46a Pocket part 47 Guide wall 80 Electric vehicle 81 Cooling system 82 First valve device 83 Second valve device

Claims

1. A flow path member including a plurality of flow paths, a valve portion for opening and closing the flow paths of the flow path member, and a drive portion fixed to the flow path member for driving the valve portion In a valve device provided with, The valve portion is, provided in the flow path of the flow path member, a valve seat having a valve hole at the center, a valve body that opens and closes the valve hole by seating and separating from the valve seat, a valve shaft connected to the valve body for axially moving the valve body with respect to the valve seat, and a biasing member for biasing the valve body together with the valve shaft in a direction of seating on the valve seat or separating from the valve seat provided with, The drive portion is, a movable core coaxially connected to the valve shaft and movable together with the valve shaft, a fixed core coaxially opposed to the movable core and fixed to the flow path member, a coil assembly component provided so as to surround the movable core and the fixed core, with a coil wound around a bobbin, A coil sealing member that is integrally provided with a coupler that is mold-bonded to the coil assembly component covering the coil and has terminals connected to the coil provided with, In the flow path of the flow path member, a flow path adapter including the valve seat is arranged, The flow path adapter is integrally provided with the valve seat, includes an inner flow path wall that forms an inner flow path and has an insertion hole through which the valve shaft is inserted, an engaging portion that enables engagement with the flow path member, and a connecting wall that connects between the inner flow path wall and the engaging portion, On the side of the inner flow path wall facing the drive portion, a predetermined adapter space is provided between the inner flow path wall and the connecting wall A valve device characterized by this.

2. In the valve device according to claim 1, The adapter space has a pocket portion extending to the side opposite to the drive portion, and a communication hole communicating with the flow path of the flow path member is provided in the connection wall forming the pocket portion. The valve device is characterized by this.

3. In the valve device according to claim 1, the movable core is provided with a breathing hole that communicates the core space between the movable core and the fixed core and the adapter space. The valve device is characterized by this.

4. In the valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the flow path member includes a first flow path communicating with the side of the drive portion and a second flow path communicating with the side opposite to the drive portion, the valve shaft has a diameter-expanded portion that expands in the radial direction, and when at least the first flow path is opened by the valve portion, the diameter-expanded portion is slidably supported by the inner peripheral surface of the insertion hole. The valve device is characterized by this.

5. In the valve device according to claim 4, the diameter-expanded portion is provided so as to open the insertion hole when the first flow path is closed. The valve device is characterized by this.

6. In the valve device according to claim 5, a guide wall extending toward the drive portion side is provided on at least a part of the periphery of the opening on the adapter space side of the insertion hole in the inner flow path wall. The valve device is characterized by this.

7. In the valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the drive portion is configured to be arranged in a plurality of directions in the circumferential direction of the valve shaft with respect to the flow path member. The valve device is characterized by this.

8. 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 Valve device, characterized by the above.

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