Multi-way valve

The multi-way valve with two valve cores for sub-chamber communication and proportional fluid delivery addresses the limitations of conventional valves, enabling versatile and efficient fluid distribution.

JP2025537076AActive Publication Date: 2025-11-14ZHEJIANG DUNAN ARTIFICIAL ENVIRONMENT CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025520707
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-11-30
Filing Date
2023-11-30
Publication Date
2025-11-14
Estimated Expiration
2043-11-30

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional multi-way valves lack the ability to adjust the proportion of fluid output to different valve ports, limiting their application scenarios.

Method used

A multi-way valve design featuring two valve cores, where a first valve core switches sub-chambers to communicate with valve ports and a second valve core adjusts the proportion of fluid delivery to two connected ports through a diversion chamber with an opening area greater than the sum of the valve ports, allowing for multiple flow path switching and proportional fluid adjustment.

Benefits of technology

Enables wide-ranging applications by allowing for multiple flow path switching and proportional fluid adjustment, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of fluid distribution.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention provides a multi-way valve including a valve seat having a valve chamber and a plurality of valve ports; a first valve core disposed within the valve chamber, the first valve core having a plurality of sub-chambers distributed therein, capable of switching different sub-chambers to communicate with corresponding valve ports when the first valve core rotates; and a second valve core disposed within the valve chamber, the second valve core having a diversion chamber communicating with at least one sub-chamber, the diversion chamber being capable of communicating with two valve ports, capable of adjusting the proportion of fluids delivered from the diversion chamber to the two corresponding connected valve ports when the second valve core rotates. When this configuration is adopted, two valve cores are provided on the valve seat, and by engaging the two valve cores, multiple types of flow paths can be switched. In addition, the flow-diversion chamber in the second valve core can communicate with two valve ports, and by rotating the second valve core, the proportion of the fluid transported from the flow-diversion chamber to the corresponding two valve ports can be adjusted. Therefore, this multi-way valve also has the function of adjusting the flow rate proportion, which widens the application scenarios.
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority to a patent application bearing application number 202211521281.6 and entitled "Multi-Way Valve" filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of the People's Republic of China on November 30, 2022, and also claims priority to a patent application bearing application number 202223231722.7 and entitled "Multi-Way Valve" filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of the People's Republic of China on November 30, 2022.

[0002] The present invention relates to the technical field of multi-way valves, and more particularly to multi-way valves. [Background technology]

[0003] A multi-way valve (e.g., a water valve in a vehicle) mainly includes a valve seat and a valve core. The valve seat has multiple valve ports, and the valve core has multiple sub-chambers. By adjusting the position of the valve core, communication between different sub-chambers and the valve ports is achieved, thereby enabling switching between different flow paths. Conventional multi-way valves usually have only one valve core, providing relatively few flow path switching modes. Some multi-way valves are equipped with two valve cores, and by engaging the two valve cores, more flow path switching modes can be achieved. However, such multi-way valves lack the ability to adjust the proportion of fluid output to different valve ports, and their application scenarios are still limited. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides a multi-way valve, which has the function of adjusting the flow rate proportion, and thus can be applied in a wide range of applications.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a multi-way valve including a valve seat having a valve chamber and a plurality of valve ports; a first valve core disposed within the valve chamber, the first valve core having a plurality of sub-chambers distributed therein, the first valve core being capable of switching different sub-chambers to communicate with corresponding valve ports when the first valve core rotates; and a second valve core disposed within the valve chamber, the second valve core having a diversion chamber communicating with at least one sub-chamber, the diversion chamber being capable of communicating with two valve ports, the second valve core being capable of adjusting the proportion of fluids delivered from the diversion chamber to the two corresponding connected valve ports when the second valve core rotates.

[0006] Furthermore, the opening area of ​​the diversion chamber is greater than the sum of the areas of the two corresponding valve ports connected to it, and the two valve ports connected to the diversion chamber and the opening of the diversion chamber are all arranged along the circumferential direction of the second valve core. When the second valve core rotates, the overlapping area between the opening of the diversion chamber and the two valve ports is adjusted, thereby proportionally adjusting the fluid.

[0007] Furthermore, the first valve core is provided with multiple layers of flow chambers arranged in order along its axial direction, and each layer of flow chamber has multiple sub-chambers arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the first valve core, where at least one sub-chamber in the flow chamber adjacent to the flow-dividing chamber is connected to the flow-dividing chamber, or at least one sub-chamber in the flow chamber arranged at an interval from the flow-dividing chamber is connected to the flow-dividing chamber.

[0008] Furthermore, the multiple valve ports of the valve seat are divided into at least two sets of parallel valve port assemblies, the multiple valve ports in each set of valve port assemblies are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first valve core, and the flow chamber of the first valve core has 4 to 8 subchambers.

[0009] Furthermore, the first valve core and the second valve core are arranged coaxially, the first valve core has an internal passage extending along its axial direction, one end of the internal passage is connected to the inlet of the flow-division chamber, and at least one sub-chamber is connected to the internal passage, and the multi-way valve further includes a first sealing ring, which is located between the first valve core and the second valve core and is arranged to surround the internal passage and the inlet of the flow-division chamber.

[0010] The multi-way valve further includes a rotating shaft and a shaft sleeve, a portion of the rotating shaft is disposed within the first valve core and passes through the second valve core, a portion of the shaft sleeve is disposed within the second valve core and the shaft sleeve is fitted onto the rotating shaft, the rotating shaft drives the first valve core to rotate, and the shaft sleeve drives the second valve core to rotate; the multi-way valve further includes a second sealing ring, the second sealing ring is fitted onto the rotating shaft, one side of the second sealing ring is abutted against the first valve core, and the other side of the second sealing ring is abutted against the shaft sleeve or the second valve core.

[0011] Furthermore, the multi-way valve further includes a valve cover, a third sealing ring and a fourth sealing ring, the valve cover is connected to the valve seat to seal the opening of the valve chamber, the third sealing ring is disposed between the periphery of the opening of the valve chamber and the valve cover, the rotating shaft and the shaft sleeve pass through the valve cover, the fourth sealing ring is fitted into the shaft sleeve, and the fourth sealing ring is sealingly engaged with both the shaft sleeve and the valve cover.

[0012] Furthermore, the second valve core includes an outer cylinder, an inner cylinder, and a connecting plate, the inner cylinder is located within the outer cylinder and is coaxial with the outer cylinder, the connecting plate is connected to both the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder, the dividing chamber includes an input chamber and an output chamber that are connected to each other, the area between the outer surface of the inner cylinder, the inner surface of the outer cylinder, and the connecting plate forms the input chamber, the input chamber is connected to at least one sub-chamber, the output chamber is located within the side wall of the outer cylinder, the opening of the output chamber is located on the outer surface of the outer cylinder, and the output chamber can communicate with two valve ports.

[0013] Furthermore, the connecting plate includes a first plate and a second plate arranged in parallel, the first plate and the second plate are respectively connected to both sides of the inner cylinder, and the first plate and the second plate are both connected to the inner surface of the outer cylinder, and there are two input chambers, which are arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane on which the first plate and the second plate are located.

[0014] Furthermore, the second valve core further includes a sealing plate and a partition plate, the sealing plate sealing one side of the outer cylinder away from the first valve core, and the partition plate is located within the output chamber, and the partition plate divides the output chamber into two symmetrical parts.

[0015] Furthermore, the multi-way valve further includes a valve cover, a first limiting member and a second limiting member, the valve cover is connected to the valve seat to seal the opening of the valve chamber, the first limiting member is provided on the valve cover, the second limiting member is provided on the second valve core, and the first limiting member and the second limiting member are retainingly engaged in the circumferential direction of the second valve core.

[0016] Furthermore, the multi-way valve further includes a gasket, the gasket is disposed on the inner wall of the valve chamber, and the first valve core and the second valve core are both engaged with the gasket.

[0017] Furthermore, a first seal rib is provided around the periphery of the opening of the sub-chamber, and when the sub-chamber and the valve port are in communication, the first seal rib around the periphery of the sub-chamber and the gasket are tightly attached, and a second seal rib is provided around the periphery of the opening of the diversion chamber, and the second seal rib around the periphery of the diversion chamber and the gasket are tightly attached.

[0018] According to the technical aspects of the present invention, there is provided a multi-way valve including: a valve seat having a valve chamber and a plurality of valve ports; a first valve core provided in the valve chamber, the first valve core having a plurality of sub-chambers distributed therein, the first valve core being capable of switching the different sub-chambers to communicate with corresponding valve ports when the first valve core rotates; and a second valve core provided in the valve chamber, the second valve core having a diversion chamber connected to at least one sub-chamber, the diversion chamber being capable of communicating with two valve ports, the second valve core being capable of adjusting the proportion of fluids delivered from the diversion chamber to the two corresponding connected valve ports when the second valve core rotates. When this configuration is adopted, two valve cores are provided on the valve seat, and by engaging the two valve cores, switching between multiple types of flow paths can be realized. In addition, the flow-diversion chamber in the second valve core can communicate with two valve ports, and by rotating the second valve core, the proportion of the fluid transported from the flow-diversion chamber to the corresponding two valve ports can be adjusted. Therefore, this multi-way valve also has the function of adjusting the flow rate proportion, which widens the range of applications. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] The drawings in the specification that form a part of this application are intended to provide a further understanding of the application, and the schematic examples and their descriptions in the application are intended to help interpret the application and are not intended to unduly limit the application.

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 shows an exploded view of a multi-way valve provided in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 shows a side view of a multi-way valve provided in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve of FIG. 2 taken along a line B-B. [Figure 4] 3 shows a cross-sectional view along the radial direction of the second valve core of the multi-way valve of FIG. 2. [Figure 5] 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve of FIG. 2 taken along line AA. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the second valve core of FIG. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of one side of the second valve core of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 7 shows a schematic view of the other side of the second valve core of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the first valve core of FIG. [Figure 10] 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve of FIG. 2 taken along CC line. [Figure 11] A schematic diagram of the gasket in Figure 1 is shown. [Figure 12] 2 shows a schematic diagram of the assembly of the gasket and the valve seat in FIG. 1. [Figure 13] 2 shows a schematic diagram of the assembly of the gasket, the first valve core, and the second valve core of FIG. 1. [Figure 14] 1 illustrates an exploded view of a multi-way valve provided in another embodiment of the present application. [Figure 15] 15 shows a side view of the multi-way valve of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve of FIG. 15 in the DD position. [Figure 17] 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve of FIG. 15 in the EE position. [Figure 18] 16 shows a radial cross-section of the multi-way valve of FIG. 15. [Figure 19] 15 shows a schematic diagram of the first gasket of FIG. 14. [Figure 20] A schematic diagram of the valve seat of Figure 14 is shown.

[0021] Here, the above drawings include the following reference numerals: 10 valve seat, 11 valve port, 12 first arc-shaped groove, 13 second arc-shaped groove, 20 first valve core, 21 sub-chamber, 22 internal passage, 23 first seal rib, 24 third seal rib, 30 second valve core, 31 flow dividing chamber, 311 input chamber, 312 output chamber, 32 outer cylinder, 321 straight rib, 33 inner cylinder, 34 connecting plate, 341 first plate body, 342 second plate body, 35 sealing plate, 36 partition plate, 37 second seal rib, 41 first sealing ring, 42 second sealing ring, 43 third sealing ring, 44 fourth sealing ring, 51 rotating shaft, 52 shaft sleeve, 53 first limiting ring, 54 second limiting ring, 61 valve cover, 62 second limiting member, 70 gasket, 71 horizontal convex rib, 72 vertical convex rib, 81 first sub-gasket, 811 through hole, 812 sub-horizontal convex rib, 813 sub-vertical convex rib, 82 Second subgasket. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The technical aspects of the embodiments of the present invention will be described clearly and completely below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention, but it is clear that the described embodiments are only some of the embodiments of the present invention, and are not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments that can be obtained by those skilled in the art without creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0023] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 13, an embodiment of the present invention provides a multi-way valve including: a valve seat 10 having a valve chamber and a plurality of valve ports 11; a first valve core 20 disposed within the valve chamber, the first valve core 20 having a plurality of sub-chambers 21 distributed thereon, the first valve core 20 being switchable to connect different sub-chambers 21 to corresponding valve ports 11 when rotated; and a second valve core 30 disposed within the valve chamber, the second valve core 30 having a diversion chamber 31 connected to at least one sub-chamber 21, the diversion chamber 31 being able to connect two valve ports 11, the second valve core 30 being able to adjust the proportion of fluids delivered from the diversion chamber 31 to the two corresponding connected valve ports 11 when rotated.

[0024] When this configuration is adopted, two valve cores are provided on the valve seat 10, and by engaging the two valve cores, switching between multiple types of flow paths can be realized. In addition, the flow-diversion chamber 31 in the second valve core 30 can be connected to two valve ports 11, and by rotating the second valve core 30, the proportion of the fluid transported from the flow-diversion chamber 31 to the corresponding two valve ports 11 can be adjusted. Therefore, this multi-way valve also has the function of adjusting the flow rate proportion, which widens the range of applications.

[0025] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the two valve ports 11 connected to the flow distribution chamber 31 and the opening of the flow distribution chamber 31 are arranged along the circumferential direction of the second valve core 30. When the second valve core 30 rotates, the overlapping area between the opening of the flow distribution chamber 31 and the two valve ports 11 changes, and the overlapping area between the opening of the flow distribution chamber 31 and the two valve ports 11 is adjusted to proportionally regulate the fluid. This configuration allows continuous adjustment of the proportion of the fluid delivered to the two valve ports 11. Specifically, the opening area of ​​the flow distribution chamber 31 is greater than the sum of the areas of the two valve ports 11 connected to it.

[0026] In this embodiment, the first valve core 20 is provided with multiple layers of flow chambers arranged in order along its axial direction, and each layer of flow chamber has multiple sub-chambers 21 arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the first valve core 20, where at least one sub-chamber 21 in the flow chamber adjacent to the flow diversion chamber 31 is connected to the flow diversion chamber 31, or at least one sub-chamber 21 in the flow chamber spaced apart from the flow diversion chamber 31 is connected to the flow diversion chamber 31. When one sub-chamber 21 in the flow chamber adjacent to the flow diversion chamber 31 is connected to the flow diversion chamber 31, the length of the flow path can be shortened, thereby reducing the resistance to fluid transport.

[0027] Optionally, the multiple valve orifices 11 of the valve seat 10 are divided into at least two sets of parallel valve orifice assemblies, and the multiple valve orifices 11 in each set of valve orifice assemblies are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first valve core 20. For example, there are two sets of valve orifice assemblies, and each set of valve orifice assemblies has five valve orifices 11. The flow chamber of the first valve core 20 has four to eight subchambers 21. Compared with the conventional single valve core structure, the first valve core 20 of this embodiment has a relatively small number of subchambers 21, which can reduce the overall volume of the first valve core 20. That is, even when the volume of the first valve core 20 is relatively small, the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30 can be engaged with each other to achieve multiple modes of flow.

[0028] 3 and 5, the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30 are arranged coaxially, and the first valve core 20 has an internal passage 22 extending along its axial direction, one end of the internal passage 22 communicating with the inlet of the diverter chamber 31, and at least one sub-chamber 21 communicating with the internal passage 22. Thus, the internal passage 22 realizes communication between the sub-chambers 21 and the diverter chamber 31. The multi-way valve further includes a first sealing ring 41, which is located between the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30 and surrounds the internal passage 22 and the inlet of the diverter chamber 31. The first sealing ring 41 can prevent the fluid in the internal passage 22 of the first valve core 20 from flowing out through the gap between the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30, and can also prevent the fluid located within the valve seat 10 but outside the two valve cores from entering the valve core through the gap between the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30.

[0029] Optionally, as shown in Figures 5 and 9, a first limiting ring 53 is provided at one end of the first valve core 20, and the first limiting ring 53 is inserted into the second valve core 30. The first limiting ring 53 has a first annular step, and the second valve core 30 has a second annular step, the circumferential surface of the first annular step faces the circumferential surface of the second annular step, and the bottom surface of the first annular step faces the bottom surface of the second annular step. The first sealing ring 41 is sandwiched within the area formed by the circumferential surface of the first annular step, the circumferential surface of the second annular step, and the bottom surface of the first annular step and the bottom surface of the second annular step, thereby realizing the restriction of the first sealing ring 41 and ensuring the sealing effect.

[0030] In this embodiment, the multi-way valve further includes a rotating shaft 51 and a shaft sleeve 52, a portion of the rotating shaft 51 is disposed within the first valve core 20 and passes through the second valve core 30, a portion of the shaft sleeve 52 is disposed within the second valve core 30 and the shaft sleeve 52 is fitted onto the rotating shaft 51, the rotating shaft 51 drives the first valve core 20 to rotate, and the shaft sleeve 52 drives the second valve core 30 to rotate. The multi-way valve further includes a second sealing ring 42, the second sealing ring 42 is fitted onto the rotating shaft 51, one side of the second sealing ring 42 is abutted against the first valve core 20, and the other side of the second sealing ring 42 is abutted against the shaft sleeve 52 or the second valve core 30. By providing the second sealing ring 42, it is possible to prevent fluid from leaking through the gap between the first valve core 20 and the rotating shaft 51, and to prevent fluid from leaking through the gap between the second valve core 30 and the rotating shaft 51, thereby improving the sealing effect.

[0031] Optionally, a second restricting ring 54 is provided at one end of the first valve core 20, and the second restricting ring 54 is provided around the rotary shaft 51. The second valve core 30 has a first hole segment and a second hole segment that are connected to each other, the diameter of the first hole segment is larger than that of the second hole segment, the shaft sleeve 52 is inserted into the first hole segment, one end of the shaft sleeve 52 is snap-engaged with the end face of the second hole segment, the second restricting ring 54 is inserted into the second hole segment, and the second sealing ring 42 is located in the area surrounded by the inner wall of the second hole segment, the outer wall of the rotary shaft 51, the end face of the shaft sleeve 52 and the end face of the second restricting ring 54, thereby providing reliable restriction for the second restricting ring 54 and ensuring a sealing effect.

[0032] Here, a first annular rib protrudes from the end face of the shaft sleeve 52 and abuts against one side of the second sealing ring 42, and a second annular rib protrudes from the end face of the second limiting ring 54 and abuts against the other side of the second sealing ring 42, thereby achieving a better sealing effect.

[0033] Optionally, in this embodiment, the multi-way valve further includes a valve cover 61, a third sealing ring 43, and a fourth sealing ring 44. The valve cover 61 is connected to the valve seat 10 to seal the opening of the valve chamber. The third sealing ring 43 is disposed between the periphery of the opening of the valve chamber and the valve cover 61. The rotary shaft 51 and the shaft sleeve 52 pass through the valve cover 61. The fourth sealing ring 44 is fitted into the shaft sleeve 52 and sealingly engaged with both the shaft sleeve 52 and the valve cover 61. In this way, the gap between the valve cover 61 and the valve seat 10 is sealed, and the gap between the valve cover 61 and the shaft sleeve 52 is sealed to prevent fluid leakage through the gap. Here, the first sealing ring 41 and the third sealing ring 43 are O-shaped sealing rings, and the second sealing ring 42 and the fourth sealing ring 44 are X-shaped sealing rings.

[0034] 6 to 8, the second valve core 30 includes an outer cylinder 32, an inner cylinder 33, and a connecting plate 34. The inner cylinder 33 is located within the outer cylinder 32 and is coaxial with the outer cylinder 32. The connecting plate 34 is connected to both the outer cylinder 32 and the inner cylinder 33. The flow-dividing chamber 31 includes an input chamber 311 and an output chamber 312, which are connected to each other. The input chamber 311 is formed by the area between the outer surface of the inner cylinder 33, the inner surface of the outer cylinder 32, and the connecting plate 34. The input chamber 311 is connected to at least one sub-chamber 21. The output chamber 312 is located within the side wall of the outer cylinder 32, and the opening of the output chamber 312 is located on the outer surface of the outer cylinder 32. The output chamber 312 can communicate with two valve ports 11. The input chamber 311 communicates with the sub-chambers 21 to input fluid, and the output chamber 312 communicates with the valve port 11 to adjust the flow output and flow rate proportionality. The opening direction of the input chamber 311 is in the axial direction of the second valve core 30, and the opening direction of the output chamber 312 is in the radial direction of the second valve core 30. This realizes a change in the fluid direction.

[0035] Here, the connecting plate 34 includes a first plate 341 and a second plate 342 arranged in parallel, the first plate 341 and the second plate 342 respectively connected to either side of the inner cylinder 33, and the first plate 341 and the second plate 342 both connected to the inner surface of the outer cylinder 32, and there are two input chambers 311, which are arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane on which the first plate 341 and the second plate 342 are located. Compared with the prior art using multiple plate structures, the use of two plate structures in this embodiment ensures that the second valve core 30 has the largest accommodating chamber and reduces the resistance loss of fluid between the inlet and outlet of the diversion chamber 31.

[0036] The second valve core 30 further includes a sealing plate 35 and a partition plate 36, and the sealing plate 35 seals one side of the outer cylinder 32 away from the first valve core 20. In this way, the one side of the outer cylinder 32 away from the first valve core 20 has a closed structure, preventing leakage. The partition plate 36 is located within the output chamber 312 and divides the output chamber 312 into two symmetrical parts, thereby dividing the fluid output from the output chamber 312 and providing structural support and strength.

[0037] Optionally, in this embodiment, the multi-way valve further includes a valve cover 61, a first restricting member and a second restricting member 62. The valve cover 61 is connected to the valve seat 10 to seal the opening of the valve chamber. The first restricting member is provided on the valve cover 61, and the second restricting member 62 is provided on the second valve core 30. The first restricting member and the second restricting member 62 are retainingly engaged in the circumferential direction of the second valve core 30. The engagement between the first restricting member and the second restricting member 62 can limit the rotation range of the second valve core 30.

[0038] The engagement between the first and second restricting members can be divided into the following three situations.

[0039] When the second valve core 30 has one limiting member and the valve cover 61 has one limiting member, the position where the limiting member of the second valve core 30 and the limiting member of the valve cover 61 come into contact with each other is defined as the zero point position, and the second valve core 30 then rotates in a direction away from the limiting member of the valve cover 61 until the limiting member of the second valve core 30 and the limiting member of the valve cover 61 come into contact with each other, and then the second valve core 30 rotates backward / reverse. In this case, the rotation angle of the second valve core 30 from the zero point position to the backward / reverse rotation start position is relatively large.

[0040] When the second valve core 30 has two symmetrical limiting members and the valve cover 61 has one corresponding limiting member, the position where the limiting member of one second valve core 30 and the limiting member of the valve cover 61 abut against each other is defined as the zero point position, and the second valve core 30 then rotates away from the limiting member of the valve cover 61 until the limiting member of the other second valve core 30 and the limiting member of the valve cover 61 abut against each other, and then the second valve core 30 rotates backward / reverse. By providing two limiting members on the second valve core 30, the rotation angle of the second valve core 30 from the zero point position to the backward / reverse rotation start position can be reduced.

[0041] When the second valve core 30 has one limiting member, the valve cover 61 has two corresponding limiting members. The position where the limiting member of the second valve core 30 and one of the limiting members of the valve cover 61 abut against each other is defined as the zero-point position. The second valve core 30 then rotates away from the limiting member of the valve cover 61 until the limiting member of the second valve core 30 and the other limiting member of the valve cover 61 abut against each other, and then the second valve core 30 rotates backward / reverse. By providing two limiting members on the valve cover 61, the rotation angle of the second valve core 30 from the zero-point position to the backward / reverse rotation position can be reduced. By providing both limiting members on the valve cover 61, the stability of the limiting member structure can be ensured, and this structure is optimal.

[0042] 1, 10 to 13, the multi-way valve further includes a gasket 70, which is mounted on the inner wall of the valve chamber, and the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30 are both engaged with the gasket 70. The gasket 70 can seal the assembly gap to prevent fluid leakage.

[0043] Here, a first seal rib 23 is provided around the periphery of the opening of sub-chamber 21, and when sub-chamber 21 and valve port 11 are in communication, first seal rib 23 on the periphery of sub-chamber 21 and gasket 70 are tightly attached, and a second seal rib 37 is provided around the periphery of the opening of flow diversion chamber 31, and second seal rib 37 on the periphery of flow diversion chamber 31 and gasket 70 are tightly attached. By providing them as described above, it is possible to achieve reliable sealing around the periphery of the opening of sub-chamber 21 and reliable sealing around the periphery of the opening of flow diversion chamber 31.

[0044] Optionally, the outer peripheral surface of the outer cylinder 32 is provided with a plurality of linear ribs 321 arranged in parallel in the circumferential direction, each of which extends along the axial direction of the outer cylinder 32. The linear ribs 321 are used for sealing engagement with the gasket 70, thereby improving the sealing effect for the opening of the diversion chamber 31.

[0045] Alternatively, there may be two gaskets 70, which are arranged opposite each other, with the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30 positioned between the two gaskets 70. Compared with the prior art, the two opposing gaskets have a better sealing and restricting effect on the valve core. As a result, even if the fluid flow rate at the valve core is relatively large or the rotating shaft engaged with the valve core is worn, the valve core is less likely to become eccentric, making it less likely to leak, and improving the sealing performance of the multi-way valve.

[0046] In this embodiment, the two gaskets 70 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry, and the rotation center line of the valve core may be located on the plane of symmetry. In this way, the two symmetrically arranged gaskets 70 have a better positioning effect on the valve core and can better prevent the valve core from becoming eccentric during use. In this embodiment, the multiple valve ports 11 are all located on the same side of the plane of symmetry. As a result, when fluid flowing from the valve ports 11 into the sub-chamber 21 generates an acting force on the valve core, the gasket located on the other side of the plane of symmetry supports the valve core, offsetting or reducing the acting force on the valve core caused by the fluid, thereby preventing the valve core from becoming eccentric.

[0047] Here, one gasket 70 has multiple through holes, and the multiple through holes correspond one-to-one to the multiple valve ports. This allows the multiple through holes to avoid the multiple valve ports 11 while ensuring the passage of fluid. This also allows the gasket 70 to surround the multiple valve ports 11, sealing the area around the valve ports 11 and preventing leakage. When fluid enters the subchamber 21 through the valve ports 11, the fluid generates an acting force on the valve core, which is mainly directed in the other direction. If there were only one gasket, the valve core would be easily decentered by the acting force of the fluid, affecting coaxiality and causing leakage. However, in this embodiment, there are two gaskets, which can support the valve core and reduce the effect of the acting force of the fluid on the valve core, thereby preventing eccentricity of the valve core and preventing leakage.

[0048] 11, one side of the gasket 70 away from the valve core is provided with a plurality of parallel horizontal convex ribs 71 and a plurality of parallel vertical convex ribs 72, the horizontal convex ribs 71 extending circumferentially around the valve core and the vertical convex ribs 72 extending axially around the valve core, and each valve orifice 11 is surrounded by the horizontal convex ribs 71 and the vertical convex ribs 72. Each valve orifice 11 on the inner wall of the valve chamber is surrounded by the horizontal convex ribs 71 and the vertical convex ribs 72, which reliably seals the periphery of the valve orifice 11 and prevents fluid from leaking through gaps around the periphery of the valve orifice 11, ensuring effective sealing.

[0049] Specifically, the horizontal convex rib 71 includes a plurality of spaced first sub-ribs that extend in the circumferential direction of the valve core, and the vertical convex rib 72 includes a plurality of spaced second sub-ribs that extend in the axial direction of the valve core. The provision of a plurality of first sub-ribs and a plurality of second sub-ribs further improves the sealing effect.

[0050] As shown in Figure 9, a first seal rib 23 is provided around the periphery of the opening of the sub-chamber 21, and the first seal rib 23 has a closed structure. When the sub-chamber 21 and the valve port 11 are in communication, the first seal rib 23 on the periphery of the sub-chamber 21 and the gasket 70 are in close contact, and the first seal rib 23 faces the horizontal convex rib 71 and vertical convex rib 72 surrounding the valve port 11. Because the horizontal convex rib 71 and the vertical convex rib 72 have a protruding structure and are relatively thick, when the sub-chamber 21 and the valve port 11 are in communication, the first seal rib 23 on the periphery of the sub-chamber 21 faces the horizontal convex rib 71 and vertical convex rib 72. This increases the pressure between the first seal rib 23 and the gasket 70, preventing gaps from forming between the first seal rib 23 and the gasket 70 and between the gasket 70 and the periphery of the valve port 11, thereby achieving a reliable seal.

[0051] The gasket 70 includes a connected arc-shaped plate layer and a rubber layer. The arc-shaped plate layer is located between the rubber layer and the valve core, and the rubber layer has horizontal convex ribs 71 and vertical convex ribs 72. The arc-shaped plate layer may be made of plastic, which has a higher hardness than the rubber layer and provides support, while the rubber layer has relatively good elastic deformation ability, improving the sealing effect. The surface of the arc-shaped plate layer facing the valve core is smooth, reducing resistance when the valve core rotates.

[0052] As shown in Figures 14 to 20, another embodiment of the present application provides a multi-way valve including: a valve seat 10 having a valve chamber and a plurality of valve ports 11; a first valve core 20 provided in the valve chamber, the first valve core 20 having a plurality of sub-chambers 21 distributed thereon, the first valve core 20 being capable of switching between communicating different sub-chambers 21 with corresponding valve ports 11 when rotated; and a first subgasket 81 and a second subgasket 82 provided opposite each other on the inner wall of the valve chamber, the first valve core 20 being positioned between the first subgasket 81 and the second subgasket 82, the outer circumferential surface of the first valve core 20 being sealingly engaged with both the first subgasket 81 and the second subgasket 82.

[0053] When this embodiment is adopted, opposing first and second sub-gaskets 81 and 82 are provided within the valve seat 10, i.e., gaskets are provided on both opposing sides of the first valve core 20 to seal and restrict the first valve core 20, and the sealing and restricting effect of the two opposing gaskets on the first valve core 20 is better than that of the prior art. As a result, even if the fluid flow rate in the first valve core 20 is relatively large or the rotating shaft engaged with the first valve core 20 is worn, the first valve core 20 is less likely to become eccentric, making it less likely to leak, and improving the sealing performance of the multi-way valve.

[0054] In this embodiment, the first subgasket 81 and the second subgasket 82 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry, the rotation center line of the first valve core 20 is located on the plane of symmetry, and the multiple valve ports 11 may all be located on the same side of the plane of symmetry. In this way, the two symmetrically arranged gaskets have a better positioning effect on the first valve core 20 and can better prevent eccentricity of the first valve core 20 during use. In addition, the first subgasket 81 and the second subgasket 82 have the same structure, which facilitates processing and assembly. Because the multiple valve ports 11 are all located on the same side of the plane of symmetry, when fluid flowing from the valve port 11 into the subchamber 21 generates an acting force on the first valve core 20, the gasket located on the other side of the plane of symmetry supports the first valve core 20, offsetting or reducing the acting force on the first valve core 20 caused by the fluid, thereby preventing eccentricity of the first valve core 20.

[0055] 14 and 19, the first subgasket 81 has a plurality of through holes 811, and the plurality of through holes 811 are provided in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of valve ports 11. This allows the plurality of through holes 811 to avoid the plurality of valve ports 11 and ensure the passage of fluid. This also allows the first subgasket 81 to surround the plurality of valve ports 11, sealing the area around the valve ports 11 and preventing leakage. When fluid enters the sub-chamber 21 through the valve port 11, the fluid generates an acting force on the first valve core 20, and the acting force is mainly directed toward the second sub-gasket 82. If the second sub-gasket 82 were not provided, the first valve core 20 would be prone to eccentricity due to the acting force of the fluid, which would affect coaxiality and make it more likely to cause leakage. However, in this embodiment, the presence of the second sub-gasket 82 can support the first valve core 20, and by reducing the effect of the acting force of the fluid on the first valve core 20, eccentricity of the first valve core 20 and leakage can be avoided.

[0056] 17 to 19, one side of the first sub-gasket 81 away from the first valve core 20 is provided with a plurality of parallel sub-horizontal convex ribs 812 and a plurality of parallel sub-vertical convex ribs 813, the sub-horizontal convex ribs 812 extending circumferentially around the first valve core 20, and the sub-vertical convex ribs 813 extending axially around the first valve core 20, such that each valve orifice 11 is surrounded by the sub-horizontal convex ribs 812 and the sub-vertical convex ribs 813. As a result, on one side of the first sub-gasket 81 facing the inner wall of the valve chamber, each valve orifice 11 is surrounded by the sub-horizontal convex ribs 812 and the sub-vertical convex ribs 813, which reliably seals the periphery of the valve orifice 11, prevents fluid from leaking through gaps around the periphery of the valve orifice 11, and ensures effective sealing.

[0057] Specifically, the sub-horizontal convex rib 812 includes a plurality of first sub-ribs spaced apart, which extend along the circumferential direction of the first valve core 20, and the sub-vertical convex rib 813 includes a plurality of second sub-ribs spaced apart, which extend along the axial direction of the first valve core 20. Providing a plurality of first sub-ribs and a plurality of second sub-ribs further improves the sealing effect.

[0058] 17, a third seal rib 24 is provided on the periphery of the opening of the subchamber 21, and when the subchamber 21 and valve orifice 11 are in communication, the third seal rib 24 on the periphery of the subchamber 21 and the first sub-gasket 81 are in tight contact, and the third seal rib 24 faces the sub-horizontal convex rib 812 and sub-vertical convex rib 813 that surround the valve orifice 11. Because the sub-horizontal convex rib 812 and sub-vertical convex rib 813 have a protruding structure and are relatively thick, when the subchamber 21 and valve orifice 11 are in communication, the subchamber 21 and the third seal rib 24 on the periphery face each other, and the sub-horizontal convex rib 812 and sub-vertical convex rib 813 face each other. This increases the mutual pressure between the third seal rib 24 and the first subgasket 81, preventing gaps from forming between the third seal rib 24 and the first subgasket 81 and between the first subgasket 81 and the periphery of the valve port 11, thereby achieving reliable sealing.

[0059] In this embodiment, the first valve core 20 is provided with multiple layers of flow chambers arranged in order along its axial direction, and each layer of flow chamber has multiple sub-chambers 21 spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the first valve core 20, with one layer of flow chamber provided between any two adjacent sub-horizontal convex ribs 812. By providing multiple layers of flow chambers in the first valve core 20 and having multiple sub-chambers 21 within each layer of flow chamber, multiple flow path switching modes can be realized. Each layer of flow chamber is arranged between any two adjacent sub-horizontal convex ribs 812, and each layer of flow chamber can be reliably sealed by the sub-horizontal convex ribs 812.

[0060] In this embodiment, the multiple valve orifices 11 of the valve seat 10 are divided into at least two sets of parallel valve orifice assemblies, and the multiple valve orifices 11 in each set of valve orifice assemblies are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first valve core 20, and a set of valve orifice assemblies is provided between any two adjacent sub-longitudinal convex ribs 813 corresponding to the first sub-gasket 81 adjacent to the valve seat 10. In this way, the multiple parallel sub-longitudinal convex ribs 813 and the parallel valve orifice assemblies are correspondingly provided to ensure a sealing effect for the valve orifices 11 in the valve orifice assemblies.

[0061] The first sub-gasket 81 includes an arc-shaped plate layer and a rubber layer connected to each other. The arc-shaped plate layer is located between the rubber layer and the first valve core 20, and the rubber layer has sub-horizontal convex ribs 812 and sub-vertical convex ribs 813. The arc-shaped plate layer may be made of plastic, which has a higher hardness than the rubber layer and provides support, while the rubber layer has relatively good elastic deformation ability and improves sealing performance. The surface of the arc-shaped plate layer facing the first valve core 20 is smooth, reducing resistance when the first valve core 20 rotates.

[0062] 20, the inner wall of the valve chamber has a first arc-shaped groove 12 and a second arc-shaped groove 13 arranged opposite each other, with a first sub-gasket 81 located in the first arc-shaped groove 12 and a second sub-gasket 82 located in the second arc-shaped groove 13. The side walls of the arc-shaped grooves can thereby position and restrict the gasket, preventing the gasket from moving along with the first valve core 20 when the first valve core 20 rotates.

[0063] The multi-way valve further includes a rotating shaft 51 and a valve cover 61. The rotating shaft 51 rotates the first valve core 20, and the valve cover 61 is connected to the valve seat 10 to seal the opening of the valve chamber. The rotating shaft 51 passes through the valve cover 61, and a sealing ring is provided between the rotating shaft 51 and the valve cover 61 to prevent leakage.

[0064] In the multi-way valve provided in this embodiment, a first sub-gasket 81 and a second sub-gasket 82 are provided opposite each other within the valve seat 10, i.e., there are gaskets on both opposing sides of the first valve core 20 to seal and restrict the first valve core 20, and the sealing and restricting effect of the two opposing gaskets on the first valve core 20 is better than that of the prior art. As a result, even if the fluid flow rate through the first valve core 20 is relatively large or the rotating shaft engaged with the first valve core 20 is worn, the first valve core 20 is less likely to become eccentric, making it less likely to leak, and improving the sealing performance of the multi-way valve.

[0065] The above-mentioned are only preferred embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications and changes to the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present invention should be included in the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. a valve seat (10) having a valve chamber and a plurality of valve ports (11); a first valve core (20) provided in the valve chamber, the first valve core (20) having a plurality of sub-chambers (21) distributed therein, the first valve core (20) being switchable so that different sub-chambers (21) communicate with corresponding valve ports (11) when the first valve core (20) rotates; a second valve core (30) provided in the valve chamber, the second valve core (30) having a branch chamber (31), the branch chamber (31) communicating with at least one of the sub-chambers (21), the branch chamber (31) being capable of communicating with two of the valve ports (11), and the second valve core (30) being capable of adjusting the proportion of fluids delivered from the branch chamber (31) to the two corresponding connected valve ports (11) when the second valve core (30) rotates.

2. 2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, wherein the two valve ports (11) communicating with the flow-diversion chamber (31) and the opening of the flow-diversion chamber (31) are both arranged along the circumferential direction of the second valve core (30), and when the second valve core (30) rotates, the overlapping area between the opening of the flow-diversion chamber (31) and the two valve ports (11) is adjusted to proportionally adjust the fluid.

3. 2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, wherein the first valve core (20) is provided with a plurality of layers of flow chambers arranged in order along its axial direction, and the flow chambers of each layer are provided with a plurality of sub-chambers (21) spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the first valve core (20), and at least one of the sub-chambers (21) in the flow chamber adjacent to the flow diverter chamber (31) is communicated with the flow diverter chamber (31), or at least one of the sub-chambers (21) in the flow chamber spaced apart from the flow diverter chamber (31) is communicated with the flow diverter chamber (31).

4. 2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, wherein the first valve core (20) and the second valve core (30) are arranged coaxially, the first valve core (20) has an internal passage (22) extending along its axial direction, one end of the internal passage (22) is connected to the inlet of the divided chamber (31), and at least one of the sub-chambers (21) is connected to the internal passage (22), the multi-way valve further includes a first sealing ring (41), the first sealing ring (41) is located between the first valve core (20) and the second valve core (30), and the first sealing ring (41) is arranged to surround the internal passage (22) and the inlet of the divided chamber (31).

5. 5. The multi-way valve according to claim 4, wherein a first limiting ring is provided at one end of the first valve core, the first limiting ring is inserted into the second valve core, the first limiting ring has a first annular step, the second valve core has a second annular step, the circumferential surface of the first annular step faces the circumferential surface of the second annular step, the bottom surface of the first annular step faces the bottom surface of the second annular step, and the first sealing ring is sandwiched within a region formed by the circumferential surface of the first annular step, the circumferential surface of the second annular step, the bottom surface of the first annular step, and the bottom surface of the second annular step.

6. The multi-way valve further includes a rotating shaft (51) and a shaft sleeve (52), a portion of the rotating shaft (51) is disposed within the first valve core (20) and passes through the second valve core (30), a portion of the shaft sleeve (52) is disposed within the second valve core (30), and the shaft sleeve (52) is fitted onto the rotating shaft (51), and the rotating shaft (51) rotates the first valve core (20); 2. The multi-way valve of claim 1, wherein the shaft sleeve (52) rotates the second valve core (30), and the multi-way valve further includes a second sealing ring (42), the second sealing ring (42) is fitted to the rotating shaft (51), one side of the second sealing ring (42) is abutted against the first valve core (20), and the other side of the second sealing ring (42) is abutted against the shaft sleeve (52) or the second valve core (30).

7. 7. The multi-way valve according to claim 6, wherein a second limiting ring (54) is provided at one end of the first valve core (20), and the second limiting ring (54) is provided surrounding the rotary shaft (51); the second valve core (30) has a first hole segment and a second hole segment communicated with each other, the diameter of the first hole segment is larger than the diameter of the second hole segment; the shaft sleeve (52) is inserted into the first hole segment, one end of the shaft sleeve (52) is engaged with the end face of the second hole segment; the second limiting ring (54) is inserted into the second hole segment; and the second sealing ring (42) is located in an area surrounded by the inner wall of the second hole segment, the outer wall of the rotary shaft (51), the end face of the shaft sleeve (52), and the end face of the second limiting ring (54).

8. The second valve core (30) includes an outer cylinder (32), an inner cylinder (33), and a connecting plate (34). The inner cylinder (33) is located within the outer cylinder (32) and is coaxial with the outer cylinder (32). The connecting plate (34) is connected to both the outer cylinder (32) and the inner cylinder (33). The dividing chamber (31) includes an input chamber (311) and an output chamber (312) that are connected to each other. The outer surface of the inner cylinder (33), the outer cylinder (32), and the connecting plate (34) forms the input chamber (311), the input chamber (311) is in communication with at least one of the subchambers (21), the output chamber (312) is located within a side wall of the outer cylinder (32), an opening of the output chamber (312) is located on the outer surface of the outer cylinder (32), and the output chamber (312) can communicate with two of the valve ports (11).

9. 9. The multi-way valve of claim 8, wherein the connecting plate (34) comprises a first plate (341) and a second plate (342) arranged in parallel, the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) respectively connected to either side of the inner cylinder (33), and the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) both connected to the inner surface of the outer cylinder (32), and the number of input chambers (311) is two, and the two input chambers (311) are arranged opposite each other on either side of a plane on which the first plate (341) and the second plate (342) are located.

10. 9. The multi-way valve of claim 8, wherein the second valve core (30) further includes a sealing plate (35) and a partition plate (36), the sealing plate (35) sealing one side of the outer cylinder (32) away from the first valve core (20), the partition plate (36) being located within the output chamber (312), and the partition plate (36) dividing the output chamber (312) into two parts.

11. 2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, further comprising a gasket (70), the gasket (70) being attached to an inner wall of the valve chamber, the first seal rib (23) being provided around the periphery of the opening of the subchamber (21), and when the subchamber (21) and the valve port (11) are in communication, the first seal rib (23) around the periphery of the subchamber (21) and the gasket (70) are tightly fitted together, and a second seal rib (37) being provided around the periphery of the opening of the branch chamber (31), and the second seal rib (37) around the periphery of the branch chamber (31) and the gasket (70) are tightly fitted together.

12. The multi-way valve is 2. The multi-way valve of claim 1, further comprising a first subgasket (81) and a second subgasket (82) provided on an inner wall of the valve chamber in opposing relation, the first valve core (20) being positioned between the first subgasket (81) and the second subgasket (82), and a peripheral edge of an opening of the subchamber (21) being sealingly engaged with both the first subgasket (81) and the second subgasket (82).

13. 13. The multi-way valve of claim 12, wherein the first subgasket (81) and the second subgasket (82) are arranged symmetrically with respect to a plane of symmetry, the rotation center line of the first valve core (20) is located on the plane of symmetry, and the multiple valve ports (11) are all located on the same side of the plane of symmetry.

14. The multi-way valve according to claim 12, wherein the first subgasket (81) has a plurality of through holes (811), and the plurality of through holes (811) and the plurality of valve ports (11) are provided in one-to-one correspondence.

15. 13. The multi-way valve according to claim 12, wherein a plurality of parallel sub-horizontal convex ribs (812) and a plurality of parallel sub-vertical convex ribs (813) are provided on one side of the first subgasket (81) away from the first valve core (20), the sub-horizontal convex ribs (812) extending along the circumferential direction of the first valve core (20), the sub-vertical convex ribs (813) extending along the axial direction of the first valve core (20), and each of the valve orifices (11) being surrounded by the sub-horizontal convex ribs (812) and the sub-vertical convex ribs (813).

16. 16. The multi-way valve according to claim 15, wherein a third seal rib (24) is provided on the periphery of the opening of the subchamber (21), and when the subchamber (21) and the valve port (11) are in communication, the third seal rib (24) on the periphery of the subchamber (21) and the first subgasket (81) are in close contact with each other, and the third seal rib (24) faces the sub-horizontal convex rib (812) and the sub-vertical convex rib (813) surrounding the valve port (11).

17. 16. The multi-way valve according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of valve orifices (11) of the valve seat (10) are divided into at least two sets of parallel valve orifice assemblies, and the plurality of valve orifices (11) in each set of the valve orifice assemblies are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first valve core (20), and wherein one set of the valve orifice assemblies is provided between any two adjacent sub-longitudinal convex ribs (813) corresponding to the first subgasket (81) adjacent to the valve seat (10).

18. The multi-way valve of claim 15, wherein the first subgasket (81) includes an arc-shaped plate layer and a rubber layer connected to each other, the arc-shaped plate layer being positioned between the rubber layer and the first valve core (20), and the rubber layer having the sub-horizontal convex rib (812) and the sub-vertical convex rib (813).

19. 13. The multi-way valve of claim 12, wherein the inner wall of the valve chamber has a first arc-shaped groove (12) and a second arc-shaped groove (13) arranged opposite each other, the first subgasket (81) being positioned in the first arc-shaped groove (12) and the second subgasket (82) being positioned in the second arc-shaped groove (13).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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    CN215928493U

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    CN217301734U