Flow path switching valve and refrigeration cycle system equipped with flow path switching valve

Abstract

To provide a flow control valve that can suppress the increase in force required to switch the valve state. [Solution] The flow path switching valve 100 comprises a valve body 140 and a main body 120 that houses the valve body. In the flow path switching valve, the valve body is driven by a drive unit to switch between a first state S1 in which the low-pressure port 122c and the first port 122a of the main body are connected by a first flow path R1 and the high-pressure port 122b and the second port 122d of the main body are connected by a second flow path R2, and a second state in which the low-pressure port and the second port are connected by a second flow path and the high-pressure port and the first port are connected by a first flow path. In the flow path switching valve, the main body and the valve body form a second space V21 in the first state and a second space V22 in the second state, and low-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space. The second flow path is located between the second space and the first flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a flow path switching valve and a refrigeration cycle apparatus including the flow path switching valve.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-108782) discloses a flow path switching valve in which a valve body having a plurality of refrigerant flow paths formed therein is disposed inside a main body. In this flow path switching valve, the valve body is driven by a drive unit to change its posture, and the connection state between the refrigerant pipe connected to the main body and the plurality of refrigerant flow paths inside the valve body changes, thereby switching the flow path of the refrigerant circuit provided with the flow path switching valve.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] In the above flow path switching valve, when a high-pressure refrigerant flows through one refrigerant flow path and a low-pressure refrigerant flows through another refrigerant flow path, a pressing force may be generated on the valve body in a direction from the refrigerant flow path through which the high-pressure refrigerant flows to the refrigerant flow path through which the low-pressure refrigerant flows. In particular, when the pressure difference between the high-pressure refrigerant and the low-pressure refrigerant is large, a large force acts on the valve body, and a large force is required to drive the valve body during flow path switching, resulting in problems such as the need for a drive unit with a large output.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The flow path switching valve in the first view comprises a body, a valve element, and an actuation unit. A first space is formed inside the body. On the surface of the body forming the first space, there are a high-pressure port, a low-pressure port, a first port, and a second port, which serve as inlets and outlets for the refrigerant. The valve element has an internal flow path. The valve element is housed inside the first space. The valve element switches between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the low-pressure port and the first port are connected, and the high-pressure port and the second port are connected. In the second state, the low-pressure port and the second port are connected, and the high-pressure port and the first port are connected. The actuation unit drives the valve element to switch between the first state and the second state. The internal flow path has a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path connects the low-pressure port and the first port in the first state, and connects the low-pressure port and the second port in the second state. The second flow path connects the high-pressure port and the second port in the first state, and connects the high-pressure port and the first port in the second state. In a flow path switching valve, 1) in the first or second state, a second space is formed by the main body and the valve body, low-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space, and the second flow path is positioned between the second space and the first flow path. Or, in a flow path switching valve, 2) in the first or second state, a second space is formed by the main body and the valve body, high-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space, and the first flow path is positioned between the second space and the second flow path.

[0005] In the flow path switching valve of the first perspective, a pressing force acts on the valve body from the second flow path side, through which high-pressure refrigerant flows, toward the first flow path side, through which low-pressure refrigerant flows (for convenience, the direction in which this pressing force acts will be called the first direction). At the same time, a force acting on the valve body in the opposite direction to the first direction occurs due to the pressure difference between the second space and the adjacent internal flow path (first or second flow path). As a result, in the flow path switching valve of the first perspective, the force acting on the valve body in the first direction does not tend to become large, and the increase in the driving force of the valve body required to switch between the first and second states can be suppressed.

[0006] The flow path switching valve in the second perspective is the flow path switching valve in the first perspective, wherein when low-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space in the first or second state, the second space and the first flow path are connected by a bypass path. When high-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space in the first or second state, the second space and the second flow path are connected by a bypass path.

[0007] In the second-viewpoint flow switching valve, by utilizing a bypass path, it is easy to equalize the pressure in the second space with the pressure in the first flow path when low-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space, and equalize the pressure in the second space with the pressure in the second flow path when high-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space.

[0008] The flow path switching valve in the third view is the flow path switching valve in the second view, and the bypass path is formed inside the valve body.

[0009] In the third-party flow path switching valve, a bypass passage is provided inside the valve body, enabling communication between the first or second flow path and the second space with a simple structure. This allows for a flow path switching valve that can suppress an increase in the size of the valve while also suppressing an increase in the force required to drive the valve body.

[0010] The flow path switching valve of the fourth aspect is a flow path switching valve of any of the first, second, or third aspects, further comprising a sealing material. The sealing material together with the body and valve body forms a second space. The sealing material seals the space between the body and the valve body.

[0011] In the fourth-viewpoint flow switching valve, the pressure in the second space is more easily maintained at the desired pressure by sealing the space between the main body and the valve body with a sealing material.

[0012] The flow path switching valve of the fifth perspective is a flow path switching valve of either the first or fourth perspective, wherein the valve body switches between a first state and a second state by rotating around a rotation axis.

[0013] In the fifth perspective, a flow path switching valve can be realized with a relatively simple structure.

[0014] The flow path switching valve of the sixth perspective is a flow path switching valve of any of the first to fifth perspectives, wherein the valve body is ball-shaped, with at least a portion of its outer surface being spherical.

[0015] The refrigeration cycle device of the seventh aspect comprises a refrigerant circuit and a flow path switching valve of any of the first to sixth aspects. The refrigerant circuit has a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger, and an expansion mechanism. The flow path switching valve is provided in the refrigerant circuit.

[0016] In the refrigeration cycle device of the eighth aspect, the refrigeration cycle device of any of the seventh aspect is such that the refrigerant circuit has a first pipe and a second pipe connected to a second heat exchanger. The first pipe carries the refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger. The second pipe carries the refrigerant flowing out of the second heat exchanger. A high-pressure port is connected to the first pipe. A low-pressure port is connected to the second pipe. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This is a schematic refrigerant circuit diagram of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of a refrigeration cycle system. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the inside of the flow path switching valve of the air conditioner, viewed along the direction of the valve body's rotation axis. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the inside of the body of the flow path switching valve, viewed along the direction of the rotation axis of the valve body housed within the body. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the valve body of a flow path switching valve. [Figure 5A] This diagram shows the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit during cooling operation. [Figure 5B] This diagram shows the flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit during heating operation. [Figure 6A] This diagram schematically shows the flow of refrigerant inside the flow path switching valve in the first state. [Figure 6B] This diagram schematically shows the refrigerant flow inside the flow path switching valve in the second state. [Figure 7A]It is a diagram schematically showing the inside of the flow path switching valve of Modification A, and is a diagram schematically showing the flow of refrigerant inside the flow path switching valve in the first state. [Figure 7B] It is a diagram schematically showing the inside of the flow path switching valve of Modification A, and is a diagram schematically showing the flow of refrigerant inside the flow path switching valve in the second state. [Figure 8] It is a view of the valve body provided with the sealing material of the flow path switching valve of Modification B, seen from the sealing part side of the valve body. [Figure 9] It is a schematic view of the main body of the flow path switching valve of Modification C, in which a recess forming a part of the second space is formed, seen along the direction of the rotation axis of the valve body accommodated in the main body. [Figure 10] It is a diagram schematically showing the bypass paths formed in the main body and the valve body of the flow path switching valve of Modification D.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] While referring to the drawings, embodiments of the flow path switching valve and embodiments of the refrigeration cycle device provided with the flow path switching valve will be described.

[0019] (1) Overall Overview The outline of the air conditioner 1 related to an embodiment of the refrigeration cycle device will be described while referring to FIG. 1. Note that the type of the refrigeration cycle device is not limited to the air conditioner, and other types of devices that perform cooling and heating of the target using a vapor compression refrigeration cycle may be used.

[0020] The air conditioner 1 performs cooling and heating of the interior (air-conditioned target space) of a house, a building, etc. The air conditioner 1 mainly includes a heat source unit 2, a utilization unit 4, and a control unit 90 (see FIG. 1). In the example of FIG. 1, the number of utilization units 4 is one, but the number of utilization units 4 may be plural.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, the heat source unit 2 and the utilization unit 4 are connected by connecting pipes 6 and 8. In the air conditioner 1, the connection of the heat source unit 2 and the utilization unit 4 by connecting pipes 6 and 8 forms a refrigerant circuit 50. The refrigerant circuit 50 includes a compressor 10, a flow path switching mechanism 12, a heat source heat exchanger 14, an expansion valve 16, an accumulator 18, a liquid shut-off valve 17a, a gas shut-off valve 17b, a utilization heat exchanger 22, and a flow path switching valve 100. The flow path switching valve 100 is a device for directing the refrigerant to flow in the same direction to the utilization heat exchanger 22 during cooling and heating operations.

[0022] The refrigerant circuit 50 is filled with a refrigerant that exhibits temperature glide, such as R454C, although this is not limited to R454C. However, the refrigerant filled in the refrigerant circuit 50 is not limited to R454C. Furthermore, the refrigerant filled in the refrigerant circuit 50 is not limited to a refrigerant that exhibits temperature glide. The refrigerant filled in the refrigerant circuit 50 can be selected as appropriate.

[0023] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Heat source unit The heat source unit 2 is installed on the rooftop or in the machine room of the building where the air conditioner 1 is installed.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the heat source unit 2 mainly comprises a compressor 10, a flow path switching mechanism 12, a heat source heat exchanger 14, an expansion valve 16, an accumulator 18, a liquid shut-off valve 17a, a gas shut-off valve 17b, and a heat source fan 15. The various components 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 17a, 17b, and 15 of the heat source unit 2 are housed within the casing 2a.

[0025] The suction pipe 19a connects the flow path switching mechanism 12 to the suction side of the compressor 10. An accumulator 18 is provided in the suction pipe 19a. The discharge pipe 19b connects the discharge side of the compressor 10 to the flow path switching mechanism 12. The first gas pipe 19c connects the flow path switching mechanism 12 to the gas side end of the heat source heat exchanger 14. The liquid pipe 19d connects the liquid side end of the heat source heat exchanger 14 to the liquid connecting pipe 6. An expansion valve 16 is provided in the liquid pipe 19d. A liquid shut-off valve 17a is provided at the connection between the liquid pipe 19d and the liquid connecting pipe 6. The second gas pipe 19e connects the flow path switching mechanism 12 to the gas connecting pipe 8. A gas shut-off valve 17b is provided at the connection between the second gas pipe 19e and the gas connecting pipe 8. The liquid shut-off valve 17a and the gas shut-off valve 17b are manually operated valves and are open when the air conditioner 1 is in operation.

[0026] The compressor 10 draws in low-pressure refrigerant from the refrigeration cycle through the suction pipe 19a, compresses the refrigerant using a compression mechanism (not shown), and discharges the compressed high-pressure refrigerant from the refrigeration cycle through the discharge pipe 19b. The compressor 10 is not limited to a specific type, but for example, it is a positive displacement compressor such as a rotary or scroll type. The compression mechanism of the compressor 10 is driven by a motor (not shown). The compressor 10 is an inverter compressor. However, the compressor 10 may also be a constant-speed compressor.

[0027] The flow path switching mechanism 12 switches the flow path of the refrigerant between a first circuit state and a second circuit state. In other words, the flow path switching mechanism 12 switches the destination of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor between the heat source heat exchanger 14 and the utilization heat exchanger 22. In the first circuit state, as shown by the solid line in the flow path switching mechanism 12 in Figure 1, the suction pipe 19a is connected to the second gas pipe 19e and the discharge pipe 19b is connected to the first gas pipe 19c. In the second circuit state, as shown by the dashed line in the flow path switching mechanism 12 in Figure 1, the suction pipe 19a is connected to the first gas pipe 19c and the discharge pipe 19b is connected to the second gas pipe 19e.

[0028] The flow path switching mechanism 12 is not limited to a specific type, but for example, it may be a four-way switching valve (solenoid operated valve, solenoid pilot switching valve, etc.). However, it is not limited to this, and the flow path switching mechanism 12 may also be a mechanism that has multiple solenoid valves connected to the piping and switches the flow path of the refrigerant between a first circuit state and a second circuit state by operating the multiple solenoid valves.

[0029] During cooling operation, the flow path switching mechanism 12 sets the refrigerant flow path to the first circuit state. At this time, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 flows through the refrigerant circuit 50 in the following order: heat source heat exchanger 14, expansion valve 16, flow path switching valve 100, utilization heat exchanger 22, flow path switching valve 100, and returns to the compressor 10. In the first circuit state, the heat source heat exchanger 14 functions as a heat radiator (condenser), and the utilization heat exchanger 22 functions as a heat absorber (evaporator).

[0030] During heating operation, the flow path switching mechanism 12 sets the refrigerant flow path to the second circuit state. At this time, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor 10 flows through the refrigerant circuit 50 in the following order: flow path switching valve 100, utilization heat exchanger 22, flow path switching valve 100, expansion valve 16, heat source heat exchanger 14, and returns to the compressor 10. In the second circuit state, the heat source heat exchanger 14 functions as a heat absorber (evaporator), and the utilization heat exchanger 22 functions as a heat radiator (condenser).

[0031] As an example of a first heat exchanger, the heat source heat exchanger 14 performs heat exchange between the refrigerant flowing inside the heat source heat exchanger 14 and the air surrounding the heat source unit 2. The heat source heat exchanger 14 is, for example, a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger having a plurality of heat transfer fins and a plurality of heat transfer tubes. Note that the substance with which the refrigerant exchanges heat in the heat source heat exchanger 14 is not limited to air, but may be a liquid such as water. If the substance with which the refrigerant exchanges heat is a liquid, then a heat exchanger suitable for heat exchange between the liquid and the refrigerant should be selected for the heat source heat exchanger 14.

[0032] An expansion valve 16, as an example of an expansion mechanism, is a mechanism for regulating the pressure and flow rate of the refrigerant flowing through the liquid pipe 19d. The expansion valve 16 is installed in the liquid pipe 19d. The expansion valve 16 is, for example, an electrically operated valve (electronic expansion valve) with adjustable opening. However, the type of expansion valve 16 is not limited to an electrically operated valve, and may be a temperature-controlled automatic expansion valve, etc.

[0033] The accumulator 18 is a container provided in the suction pipe 19a that has a gas-liquid separation function that separates the incoming refrigerant into gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant flowing into the accumulator 18 is separated into gaseous refrigerant and liquid refrigerant, and the gaseous refrigerant that collects in the upper space flows into the compressor 10.

[0034] The heat source fan 15 supplies heat source air from around the heat source unit 2 to the heat source heat exchanger 14. The heat source fan 15 is not limited to any particular type of fan, but for example, it is an axial flow fan such as a propeller fan. The heat source fan 15 is driven by a motor (not shown in the figure).

[0035] The heat source unit 2 further includes a heat source control unit (not shown). The heat source control unit includes a control calculation device and a memory device. The control calculation device is a processor such as a CPU and a GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. The control calculation device reads a program stored in the memory device and performs predetermined calculation processing according to the program, and in cooperation with the utilization control unit (not shown) of the utilization unit 4, controls the operation of various devices of the air conditioner 1 as the control unit 90. The functions of the control unit 90 will be described later.

[0036] (2-2) Units to use The utilization unit 4 is installed in the air-conditioned space. The utilization unit 4 may be, for example, a ceiling-mounted, ceiling-suspended, wall-mounted, or floor-standing unit.

[0037] As shown in Figure 1, the utilization unit 4 mainly comprises a utilization heat exchanger 22, a utilization fan 24, and a flow path switching valve 100. The utilization heat exchanger 22, the utilization fan 24, and the flow path switching valve 100 are housed within the housing 4a.

[0038] In the utilization heat exchanger 22, which is an example of a second heat exchanger, heat exchange takes place between the refrigerant flowing inside the utilization heat exchanger 22 and the air in the space to be air-conditioned. The utilization heat exchanger 22 is, for example, a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger having a plurality of heat transfer fins and a plurality of heat transfer tubes.

[0039] The heat exchanger 22 has a first connection part 22a and a second connection part 22b, which serve as the inlet and outlet for the refrigerant. By switching the flow path using the flow path switching valve 100, which will be described later, the refrigerant flows into the heat exchanger 22 from the first connection part 22a and flows out from the second connection part 22b, regardless of whether it is in cooling or heating operation. By ensuring that the refrigerant flows in the same direction inside the heat exchanger 22, it is possible to achieve a state where the airflow direction formed by the fan 24 and the refrigerant flow direction are in opposition to each other, regardless of whether it is in cooling or heating operation. As a result, the heat exchange efficiency in the heat exchanger 22 can be maintained at a high level in both cooling and heating operation.

[0040] The utilization fan 24 supplies air taken in from the air-conditioned space to the utilization heat exchanger 22. The utilization fan 24 is, for example, a centrifugal fan such as a turbo fan or a sirocco fan. The utilization fan 24 is driven by a motor (not shown in the figure).

[0041] The flow path switching valve 100 switches the direction of refrigerant flow in the heat exchanger 22. Specifically, the flow path switching valve 100 controls the flow of refrigerant so that refrigerant flows in from the first connection part 22a of the heat exchanger 22 and flows out from the second connection part 22b of the heat exchanger 22, both during cooling and heating operation.

[0042] The outer surface of the flow path switching valve 100 (the outer surface 124 of the main body 120 of the flow path switching valve 100, which will be described later) is provided with a first external port 130a, a second external port 130b, a third external port 130c, and a fourth external port 130d to which piping is connected (see Figure 2). The first external port 130a, the second external port 130b, the third external port 130c, and the fourth external port 130d are connection points to which piping is connected and are inlets and outlets for the refrigerant. The gas connecting pipe 8 is connected to the first external port 130a (directly or via other piping) (see Figures 1 and 3). One end of the first pipe 26a is connected to the second external port 130b (see Figures 1 and 3). The other end of the first pipe 26a is connected to the first connection point 22a, which is the inlet for the refrigerant of the heat exchanger 22. In other words, the first pipe 26a is the pipe through which the refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger 22 flows. One end of the second pipe 26b is connected to the third external port 130c (see Figures 1 and 3). The other end of the second pipe 26b is connected to the second connection part 22b, which is the outlet for the refrigerant from the heat exchanger 22 (see Figures 1 and 3). In other words, the second pipe 26b is the pipe through which the refrigerant flowing out of the heat exchanger 22 flows. The liquid connection pipe 6 is connected to the fourth external port 130d (either directly or via other piping).

[0043] The second external port 130b communicates with the first connection part 22a, which is the inlet for the refrigerant of the heat exchanger 22, so the refrigerant flows in the same direction regardless of whether it is in cooling or heating mode (see arrow A in Figure 1). The third external port 130c communicates with the second connection part 22b, which is the outlet for the refrigerant of the heat exchanger 22, so the refrigerant flows in the same direction regardless of whether it is in cooling or heating mode (see arrow B in Figure 1).

[0044] The refrigerant flowing out from the second external port 130b of the flow path switching valve 100 passes through the utilization heat exchanger 22 and then flows into the third external port 130c of the flow path switching valve 100. Therefore, due to pressure loss in the utilization heat exchanger 22 and piping 26a and 26b, the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the second external port 130b is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the third external port 130c.

[0045] During cooling operation, the flow path switching valve 100 connects the liquid connection pipe 6 to the first pipe 26a and the second pipe 26b to the gas connection pipe 8 (see solid and dashed lines in the flow path switching valve 100 in Figure 5A). During heating operation, the flow path switching valve 100 connects the liquid connection pipe 6 to the second pipe 26b and the first pipe 26a to the gas connection pipe 8 (see solid and dashed lines in the flow path switching valve 100 in Figure 5B).

[0046] A specific example of the structure of the flow path switching valve 100 will be described later.

[0047] The utilization unit 4 further includes a utilization control unit (not shown). The utilization control unit includes a control arithmetic unit and a memory device. The control arithmetic unit is a processor such as a CPU and a GPU. The memory device is a storage medium such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. The control arithmetic unit reads a program stored in the memory device and performs predetermined calculation processing according to the program, and in cooperation with the heat source control unit of the heat source unit 2, controls the operation of various devices of the air conditioner 1 as the control unit 90. The functions of the control unit 90 will be described later.

[0048] (2-2-1) Details of the flow path switching valve A specific example of the structure of the flow path switching valve 100 will be explained with reference to the drawings.

[0049] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the flow path switching valve 100 mainly comprises a body 120, a valve body 140, an actuation unit 150, a sealing material 160, and a sealing material 170. In Figures 2 and 3, the members surrounding the first space V1 (described later) from both sides in the direction of the rotation axis O are omitted from the illustration in order to make the internal structure of the body 120 easier to see. In other words, the first space V1 (described later) is actually a space surrounded by the body 120 (unlike in Figures 2 and 3).

[0050] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the main body 120 has a cylindrical outer shape. However, the shape of the main body 120 can be determined as appropriate and is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, the outer shape of the main body 120 may be a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0051] As described above, the outer surface 124 of the main body 120 (in this embodiment, the side surface of the cylindrical main body 120) is provided with a first external port 130a, a second external port 130b, a third external port 130c, and a fourth external port 130d, which serve as inlets and outlets for the refrigerant (see Figure 2). For example, when the main body 120 is viewed from one side along the rotation axis O of the valve body 140 located inside the main body 120, the third external port 130c, the fourth external port 130d, the second external port 130b, and the first external port 130a are arranged in a clockwise order at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. However, the arrangement of the first external port 130a, the second external port 130b, the third external port 130c, and the fourth external port 130d (the position and order of each port) is not limited to the example arrangement, as long as it is possible to realize the refrigerant flow described later inside the flow path switching valve 100.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4, a first space V1 is formed inside the main body 120. The first space V1 is the space in which the valve body 140 is housed. The surface 122 that forms the first space V1 (surrounding the first space V1) is provided with a first port 122a, a high-pressure port 122b, a low-pressure port 122c, and a second port 122d, which serve as inlets and outlets for the refrigerant. Here, the first port 122a refers to the opening at the tip of the hole on the surface 122 that faces the first space V1. The same applies to the high-pressure port 122b, the low-pressure port 122c, and the second port 122d.

[0053] The first port 122a communicates with the first external port 130a via a passage formed in the main body 120 (shown by a dashed line in Figure 2, reference numerals omitted). The high-voltage port 122b communicates with the second external port 130b via a passage formed in the main body 120 (shown by a dashed line in Figure 2, reference numerals omitted). The low-voltage port 122c communicates with the third external port 130c via a passage formed in the main body 120 (shown by a dashed line in Figure 2, reference numerals omitted). The second port 122d communicates with the fourth external port 130d via a passage formed in the main body 120 (shown by a dashed line in Figure 2, reference numerals omitted). In this embodiment, each of the external ports 130a to 130d is connected to each of the ports 122a to 122d on the surface 122 of the main body 120 by a passage that extends linearly in the radial direction in the cylindrical main body 120. However, the shape of the passage is not limited to the example shape. For example, the passage may extend in directions other than the radial direction (for example, along the axial direction of the axis of rotation O, intersecting the radial direction). Also, the passage is not limited to extending in a straight line.

[0054] As can be seen in Figure 1, the first port 122a, which communicates with the first external port 130a to which the gas connecting pipe 8 is connected, and the second port 122d, which communicates with the fourth external port 130d to which the liquid connecting pipe 6 is connected, are connected via a heat source heat exchanger 14, through which the refrigerant flowing inside and the heat source fluid exchange heat, without going through the utilization heat exchanger 22. The high-pressure port 122b, which communicates with the second external port 130b to which the first pipe 26a is connected, and the low-pressure port 122c, which communicates with the third external port 130c to which the second pipe 26b is connected, are connected via a utilization heat exchanger 22, through which the refrigerant flowing inside and the air in the space to be air-conditioned exchange heat, as can be seen in Figure 1.

[0055] As mentioned above, the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the second external port 130b is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the third external port 130c. Therefore, the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the high-pressure port 122b connected to the second external port 130b is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the low-pressure port 122c connected to the third external port 130c.

[0056] A sealing material 160 may be provided around the openings of the first port 122a, the high-pressure port 122b, and the second port 122d on the surface 122 of the main body 120. The sealing material 160 is an annular member (packing). The material of the sealing material 160 is not limited, but for example, it is made of a fluororesin such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). When the valve body 140 rotates around the rotation axis O, the surface 147 of the sealing portion 146 of the valve body 140 moves while sliding against the sealing material 160. The material and shape of the sealing material 160 may be selected as appropriate.

[0057] The valve body 140 is positioned in the first space V1 formed by the main body 120.

[0058] While not limiting the shape of the valve body 140, it is, for example, ball-shaped. A ball shape being a valve body means that at least a portion of the outer surface of the valve body is spherical. Although not limiting the shape of the valve body 140, here it has a shape obtained by cutting off both ends in the direction of the rotation axis O along a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis O, and then removing the portion that will become the second flow path R2, described later, from the remaining part. Both ends of the valve body 140 in the direction of the rotation axis O are provided with shafts 148 extending along the direction of the rotation axis O (shafts attached to (integrated with) the valve body 140 for rotation, and supported by bearings not shown; see Figure 4).

[0059] As shown in Figure 4, the valve body 140 mainly consists of a main portion 141, a sealing portion 146, and a connecting portion 143. The main portion 141 has a through hole 144 (first flow path R1), which will be described later. The sealing portion 146, together with the main body 120, forms the second spaces V21 and V22, which will be described later. The connecting portion 143 connects the main portion 141 and the sealing portion 146. The space between the main portion 141 and the sealing portion 146 functions as the second flow path R2, which will be described later. The sealing portion 146 and the connecting portion 143 will be described later.

[0060] The valve body 140 has an internal flow path for guiding the refrigerant in a desired direction. The internal flow path includes a first flow path R1 and a second flow path R2. The flow path switching valve 100 uses the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 to guide the refrigerant flowing into the flow path switching valve 100 from a certain pipe to a predetermined pipe.

[0061] The first flow path R1 is a refrigerant flow path surrounded by a valve body 140 and having openings at both ends. Specifically, a through hole 144 is formed in the main part 141 of the valve body 140, and this through hole 144 functions as the first flow path R1.

[0062] When the flow path switching valve 100 takes the first state S1 described later, the first flow path R1 connects the low-pressure port 122c and the first port 122a. When the flow path switching valve 100 takes the second state S2 described later, the first flow path R1 connects the low-pressure port 122c and the second port 122d.

[0063] When the flow path switching valve 100 takes the first state S1 described later, one of the openings at both ends of the first flow path R1 is connected to the opening of the first port 122a, and the other of the openings at both ends of the first flow path R1 is connected to the opening of the low-pressure port 122c (see Figure 6A). If a sealing material 160 is provided at the openings of the first port 122a and the low-pressure port 122c, each of the openings at both ends of the first flow path R1 is connected to the openings of the first port 122a and the low-pressure port 122c via the sealing material 160. In other words, the sealing material 160 seals the space between the openings of ports 122a and 122c of the connected main body 120 and the opening of the first flow path R1 of the valve body 140.

[0064] When the flow path switching valve 100 takes the second state S2 described later, one of the openings at both ends of the first flow path R1 is connected to the opening of the second port 122d, and the other of the openings at both ends of the first flow path R1 is connected to the opening of the low-pressure port 122c (see Figure 6B). If a sealing material 160 is provided at the openings of the second port 122d and the low-pressure port 122c, each of the openings at both ends of the first flow path R1 is connected to the openings of the second port 122d and the low-pressure port 122c via the sealing material 160. In other words, the sealing material 160 seals the space between the openings of ports 122c and 122d of the connected main body 120 and the opening of the first flow path R1 of the valve body 140.

[0065] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the second flow path R2 is a flow path enclosed only on both sides in the width direction perpendicular to the refrigerant flow direction. Specifically, the second flow path R2 is a flow path formed between the wall surface 142 of the main part 141 of the valve body 140 and the seal part 146 of the valve body 140 (see Figure 4).

[0066] The valve body 140 is driven by a motor, which is an example of a drive unit 150. In this embodiment, the drive unit 150 rotates the valve body 140 around the rotation axis O by rotating a shaft 148 that is attached to the valve body 140 and extends along the direction of the rotation axis O.

[0067] The valve body 140 is driven by the drive unit 150, which switches the state of the flow path switching valve 100 between a first state S1 and a second state S2. As a result, the flow of refrigerant within the flow path switching valve 100 changes. In this embodiment, the first state S1 of the flow path switching valve 100 is used during cooling operation, and the second state S2 of the flow path switching valve 100 is used during heating operation.

[0068] Specifically, in the first state S1, the first flow path R1 of the valve body 140 connects the low-pressure port 202c and the first port 202a, and the second flow path R2 of the valve body 140 connects the high-pressure port 202b and the second port 202d. In the second state S2, the first flow path R1 of the valve body 140 connects the low-pressure port 202c and the second port 202d, and the second flow path R2 of the valve body 140 connects the high-pressure port 202b and the first port 202a.

[0069] As described above, during operation of the air conditioner 1, the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the high-pressure port 122b is higher than the pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the low-pressure port 122c. Therefore, the pressure in the second flow path R2 connected to the high-pressure port 122b is higher than the pressure in the first flow path R1 connected to the low-pressure port 122c. Consequently, when the flow path switching valve 100 is in the first state S1 and the second state S2, a force F1 acts on the valve body 140 in the direction from the side where the second flow path R2 is located to the side where the first flow path R1 is located, due to the pressure difference between the second flow path R2 and the first flow path R1 (see Figures 6A and 6B). The magnitude of the force F1 varies depending on the operating conditions of the air conditioner 1, etc. Depending on the magnitude of the force F1, the valve body 140 may be slightly shifted from the side where the second flow path R2 is located to the side where the first flow path R1 is located, which may reduce the sealing performance between the second flow path R2 and the first flow path R1. Furthermore, the force F1 acts on the shaft 148 attached to the valve body 140 from the side where the second flow path R2 is located to the side where the first flow path R1 is located, which may require a large driving force (torque) when the valve body 140 rotates.

[0070] Therefore, in this flow path switching valve 100, when the flow path switching valve 100 is in the first state S1, a second space V21 is formed that has approximately the same pressure as the first flow path R1, and the second flow path R2 is positioned between the first flow path R1 and the second space V21. Furthermore, in this flow path switching valve 100, when the flow path switching valve 100 is in the second state S2, a second space V22 is formed that has approximately the same pressure as the first flow path R1, and the second flow path R2 is positioned between the first flow path R1 and the second space V22.

[0071] The presence of the second spaces V21 and V22 causes the seal portion 146 of the valve body 140 to be pushed toward the second spaces V21 and V22 by a force F2 due to the pressure difference (Figures 6A and 6B), thus reducing the force F1 acting on the valve body 140. It is preferable that the formation of the second spaces V21 and V22 cancels out 20% to 80% of the force F1 compared to the case where the second spaces V21 and V22 do not exist. In other words, it is preferable that the area of ​​the seal portion 146 of the valve body 140, viewed along the direction in which the force F2 acts, is in the range of 20% to 80% of the area of ​​the portion on which the force F1 acts, viewed along the direction in which the force F1 acts.

[0072] In this case, the second space (V21, V22) is formed regardless of whether the flow path switching valve 100 is in the first state S1 or the second state S2, but it is not limited to this, and the second space may be formed only in either the first state S1 or the second state S2. For example, if there are circumstances in either the first state S1 or the second state S2 where the pressure difference between the first flow path R1 and the second flow path R2 is not very large, then the second space may not be formed in the state where the pressure difference is not very large.

[0073] The second spaces V21 and V22 will be explained in detail.

[0074] The second spaces V21 and V22 are formed by the sealing portion 146 of the valve body 140 (the surface 147 of the sealing portion 146 facing the surface 122 of the main body 120), the surface 122 of the main body 120 that forms the first space V1, and the sealing material 170. This will be explained in detail.

[0075] On the surface 122 of the main body 120, a sealing material 170 is positioned opposite the sealing portion 146 when the valve body 140 is positioned so that the flow path switching valve 100 is in the first state S1 (when the first flow path R1 connects the low-pressure port 122c and the first port 122a). The sealing portion 146 of the valve body 140 moves while in contact with the end face of the sealing material 170. When the valve body 140 is positioned so that the flow path switching valve 100 is in the first state S1, a space is formed enclosed by the outer surface 147 of the sealing portion 146, the inner circumferential surface of the sealing material 170, and the surface 122 of the main body 120. This space functions as the second space V21.

[0076] Furthermore, on the surface 122 of the main body 120, a sealing material 170 is positioned opposite the sealing portion 146 when the valve body 140 is positioned so that the flow path switching valve 100 is in the second state S2 (when the first flow path R1 connects the low-pressure port 122c and the second port 122d). The sealing portion 146 of the valve body 140 moves while in contact with the end face of the sealing material 170. When the valve body 140 is positioned so that the flow path switching valve 100 is in the second state S2, a space is formed enclosed by the outer surface 147 of the sealing portion 174, the inner circumferential surface of the sealing material 170, and the surface 122 of the main body 120. This space functions as the second space V22.

[0077] While not limited, the sealing material 170 is a component (annular component (packing)) similar to the aforementioned sealing material 160. The material of the sealing material 170 is not limited, but for example, it is made of a fluororesin such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The sealing material 170 seals the gap that occurs between the valve body 140 and the main body 120. In particular, when an elastic material is used for the sealing material 170, a gap is less likely to form between the sealing portion 146 of the valve body 140 and the sealing material 170, making it easier to obtain high sealing performance.

[0078] In order to introduce low-pressure refrigerant into the second spaces V21 and V22, the main body 120 and valve body 140 should be provided with a refrigerant flow path for introducing low-pressure L (here, low-pressure L means a pressure equivalent to the refrigerant pressure at the low-pressure port 122c).

[0079] Specifically, for example, the main body 120 and the valve body 140 may be provided with a bypass passage connecting the first flow path R1 and the second spaces V21 and V22. For example, such a bypass passage may be formed inside the valve body 140. As a specific example, a hole extending from the first flow path R1 to the outer surface of the seal portion 146 and having an opening 145a (see Figure 4) on the surface 147 can be provided as a bypass passage 145 in the connecting portion 143 of the valve body 140 (see Figures 6A and 6B).

[0080] However, this is not limited to this, and the flow path that introduces the low-pressure refrigerant L into the second spaces V21 and V22 may be one that introduces the low-pressure refrigerant L from a location other than the first flow path R1.

[0081] (2-3) Control Unit The control unit 90 consists of the heat exchanger 22 used by the heat source unit 2 and the utilization control unit 4. Note that part or all of the control unit 90 may be composed of devices provided separately from the heat source unit 2 and the utilization unit 4.

[0082] The control unit 90 controls the operation of the entire air conditioner 1 by causing the control calculation device to execute a program stored in the memory device.

[0083] As shown by the dashed lines in Figure 1, the control unit 90 is electrically connected to the utilization fan 24, the flow path switching valve 100, the compressor 10, the flow path switching mechanism 12, the expansion valve 16, and the heat source fan 15. The control unit 90 is also electrically connected to various sensors (not shown) that measure the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant, the temperature of the air in the air-conditioned space, the outside air temperature, etc. The control unit 90 controls the operation of various components of the air conditioner 1 based on control signals received by the utilization unit 4 from an operating remote control (not shown) and measurement signals from various sensors.

[0084] The control unit 90 primarily performs cooling and heating operations.

[0085] (2-3-1) Cooling operation When the control unit 90 receives a command to perform cooling operation, for example from the operating remote control via the user unit 4, it sets the flow path switching mechanism 12 to the first circuit state, controls the drive unit 150 of the flow path switching valve 100 to set the state of the valve body 140 to the first state S1 (see Figure 6A), and starts the operation of the compressor 10. In addition, based on the measurement results of sensors that measure the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant, which are provided in the refrigerant circuit 50, it appropriately controls the rotation speed of the compressor 10 motor and the opening degree of the expansion valve 16.

[0086] The flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit 50 will be explained with reference to Figure 5A. When the compressor 10 starts operating, low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle (the expression "low pressure in the refrigeration cycle" is different from the low pressure explained in relation to the low-pressure port 122c) is drawn into the compressor 10 and compressed by the compressor's compression mechanism to become high-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle (the expression "high pressure in the refrigeration cycle" is different from the high pressure explained in relation to the low-pressure port 122c). The high-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is sent to the heat source heat exchanger 14 via the flow path switching mechanism 12, where it exchanges heat with the air around the heat source unit 2 supplied by the heat source fan 15 and condenses to become high-pressure liquid refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant flows through the liquid pipe 19d, passes through the expansion valve 16, and is reduced in pressure to near the suction pressure of the compressor 10 (the suction pressure is a higher pressure), becoming a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant. The refrigerant reduced in pressure by the expansion valve 16 is sent to the utilization unit 4 and flows into the flow path switching valve 100. The refrigerant flowing from the liquid connecting pipe 6 into the flow path switching valve 100 via the fourth external port 130d and the second port 122d flows through the second flow path R2 and flows into the utilization heat exchanger 22 from the first connection part 22a via the high-pressure port 122b, the second external port 130b and the first piping 26a. The gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant flowing into the utilization heat exchanger 22 exchanges heat with the air of the air-conditioned space supplied to the utilization heat exchanger 22 by the utilization fan 24 and evaporates, and is also depressurized as it passes through the utilization heat exchanger 22, becoming low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle. The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle flowing out from the utilization heat exchanger 22 flows out from the second connection part 22b and flows into the flow path switching valve 100 from the third external port 130c via the second piping 26b. The refrigerant flowing into the flow path switching valve 100 flows from the low-pressure port 122c through the first flow path R1 of the valve body 140 (shown as a solid line within the flow path switching valve 100 in Figure 5A), and flows out to the gas connecting pipe 8 via the first port 122a and the first external port 130a. The refrigerant is then sent to the heat source unit 2 via the gas connecting pipe 8 and flows into the accumulator 18 via the flow path switching mechanism 12. The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle that flows into the accumulator 18 is then drawn back into the compressor 10.Furthermore, the temperature of the air supplied to the heat exchanger 22 decreases as it exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing through the heat exchanger 22, and the cooled air is blown into the air-conditioned space.

[0087] (2-3-2) Heating operation When the control unit 90 receives a command to start heating operation, for example from the operating remote control via the user unit 4, it sets the flow path switching mechanism 12 to the second circuit state, controls the drive unit 150 of the flow path switching valve 100 to set the state of the valve body 140 to the second state S2 (see Figure 6B), and starts the operation of the compressor 10. In addition, based on the measurement results of sensors that measure the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant, which are provided in the refrigerant circuit 50, it appropriately controls the rotation speed of the compressor 10 motor and the opening degree of the expansion valve 16.

[0088] The flow of refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit 50 will be explained with reference to Figure 5B. When the compressor 10 is started, the low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is drawn into the compressor 10 and compressed by the compressor 10 to become the high-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle. The high-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle is sent to the utilization unit 4 via the flow path switching mechanism 12 and flows into the flow path switching valve 100. The gaseous refrigerant that has flowed into the flow path switching valve 100 from the gas connecting pipe 8 via the first external port 130a and the first port 122a flows through the second flow path R2 (shown as a solid line within the flow path switching valve 100 in Figure 5B) and flows into the utilization heat exchanger 22 from the first connection part 22a via the high-pressure port 122b, the second external port 130b and the first piping 26a. The gaseous refrigerant sent to the heat exchanger 22 condenses through heat exchange with the air in the conditioned space supplied to the heat exchanger 22 by the heat fan 24, and is also slightly depressurized due to pressure loss in the heat exchanger 22, becoming liquid refrigerant. The pressure of the refrigerant flowing out of the heat exchanger 22 is close to the high pressure in the refrigeration cycle (although slightly lower than the discharge pressure). The temperature of the air supplied to the heat exchanger 22 rises as it exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing through the heat exchanger 22, and the heated air is blown out into the conditioned space. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant from the refrigeration cycle flowing out of the unit 4 flows out from the second connection part 22b and flows through the second piping 26b to the flow path switching valve 100 from the third external port 130c. The refrigerant flowing into the flow path switching valve 100 flows from the low-pressure port 122c to the second flow path R2 (shown as a dashed line within the flow path switching valve 100 in Figure 7B), and flows out to the liquid connecting pipe 6 via the second port 122d and the fourth external port 130d. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle that flows out to the liquid connecting pipe 6 flows into the heat source unit 2. The refrigerant that flows into the heat source unit 2 flows through the liquid pipe 19d and, as it flows through the expansion valve 16, is reduced to near the suction pressure of the compressor 10, becoming a gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant, and flows into the heat source heat exchanger 14. The low-pressure gas-liquid two-phase refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle that flows into the heat source heat exchanger 14 exchanges heat with the air around the heat source unit 2 supplied by the heat source fan 15 and evaporates, becoming a low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle. The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle flows into the accumulator 18 via the flow path switching mechanism 12.The low-pressure gaseous refrigerant that flows into the accumulator 18 is then drawn back into the compressor 10.

[0089] (3) Features (3-1) The flow path switching valve 100 comprises a main body 120, a valve body 140, and an drive unit 150. A first space V1 is formed inside the main body 120. The surface 122 of the main body 120 forming the first space V1 is provided with a high-pressure port 122b, a low-pressure port 122c, a first port 122a, and a second port 122d, which serve as inlets and outlets for the refrigerant. The valve body 140 has an internal flow path. The valve body 140 is housed inside the first space V1. The valve body 140 switches between a first state S1 and a second state S2. In the first state S1, the low-pressure port 122c and the first port 122a are connected, and the high-pressure port 122b and the second port 122d are connected. In the second state S2, the low-pressure port 122c and the second port 122d are connected, and the high-pressure port 122b and the first port 122a are connected. The drive unit 150 drives the valve body 140 to switch between the first state S1 and the second state S2. The internal flow path has a first flow path R1 and a second flow path R2. The first flow path R1 connects the low-pressure port 122c and the first port 122a in the first state S1, and connects the low-pressure port 122c and the second port 122d in the second state S2. The second flow path R2 connects the high-pressure port 122b and the second port 122d in the first state S1, and connects the high-pressure port 122b and the first port 122a in the second state S2. In the flow path switching valve 100, in the first state S1, a second space V21 is formed by the main body 120 and the valve body 140, and low-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space V21, with the second flow path R2 positioned between the second space V21 and the first flow path R1. Furthermore, in the second state S2, a second space V22 is formed by the main body 120 and the valve body 140, and low-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space V22, with the second flow path R2 positioned between the second space V22 and the first flow path R1.

[0090] In this flow path switching valve 100, a force F1 acts on the valve body 140 from the second flow path R2 side through which high-pressure refrigerant flows to the first flow path R1 side through which low-pressure refrigerant flows. At the same time, a force F2 acts in the opposite direction to the first direction due to the pressure difference between the second spaces V21, V22 and the adjacent second flow path R2. As a result, in this flow path switching valve 100, the force F1 acting on the valve body 140 is less likely to be large in direction, and the driving force (torque) of the valve body 140 required to switch between the first state S1 and the second state S2 can be suppressed.

[0091] Furthermore, the force F1 causes the valve body 140 to shift from the side where the second flow path R2 is located to the side where the first flow path R1 is located, thereby suppressing a decrease in the sealing performance between the second flow path R2 and the first flow path R1.

[0092] (3-2) In the flow path switching valve 100, in the first state S1, the second space V21 and the first flow path R1 are connected by a bypass passage 145. Also, in the flow path switching valve 100, in the second state S2, the second space V22 and the first flow path R1 are connected by a bypass passage 145. With this flow path switching valve 100, it is easy to set the second spaces V21 and V22 to a desired pressure (here, low pressure L) by using the bypass passage 145.

[0093] In this case, the bypass passage 145 is formed inside the valve body 140 (specifically, in the connecting portion 143). By providing the bypass passage 145 inside the valve body 140, communication between the first flow path R1 or the second flow path R2 and the second spaces V21, V22 can be achieved with a simple structure, and a flow path switching valve 100 can be realized that does not require excessive force to drive the valve body 140 while suppressing an increase in the size of the flow path switching valve 100.

[0094] (3-3) The flow path switching valve 100 is equipped with a sealing material 170. The sealing material 170 together with the main body 120 and the valve body 140 forms second spaces V21 and V22. The sealing material 170 seals the space between the main body 120 and the valve body 140.

[0095] Here, by sealing the space between the main body 120 and the valve body 140 with the sealing material 170, the pressure in the second spaces V21 and V22 is more easily maintained at the desired pressure.

[0096] (3-4) In the flow path switching valve 100, the valve body 140 switches between a first state S1 and a second state S2 by rotating around the rotation axis O.

[0097] Here, a flow path switching valve 100 can be realized with a relatively simple structure.

[0098] (3-5) An air conditioner 1, as an example of a refrigeration cycle device, comprises a refrigerant circuit 50 and a flow path switching valve 100. The refrigerant circuit 50 includes a compressor 10, a heat source heat exchanger 14 as an example of a first heat exchanger, a utilization heat exchanger 22 as an example of a second heat exchanger, and an expansion valve 16 as an example of an expansion mechanism. The flow path switching valve 100 is provided in the refrigerant circuit 50.

[0099] In particular, the refrigerant circuit 50 here has a first pipe 26a and a second pipe 26b connected to the heat exchanger 22. The refrigerant flowing into the heat exchanger 22 flows through the first pipe 26a. The refrigerant flowing out of the heat exchanger 22 flows through the second pipe 26b. The high-pressure port 122b is connected to the first pipe 26a. The low-pressure port 122c is connected to the second pipe 26b.

[0100] (4) Variations The following are variations of the above embodiment. The following variations may be combined as appropriate, as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0101] (4-1) Variation A In the above embodiment, the case in which the through hole 144 is used as a first flow path R1 connected to the low-pressure port 122c was described. However, the through hole 144 may also be used as a second flow path R2 connected to the high-pressure port 122b, and the space between the main part 141 and the seal part 146 of the valve body 140 may be used as the first flow path R1.

[0102] In this case, ports 122a to 122d are arranged as shown in Figures 7A and 7B. When configured as in modified example A, a second space V21' is formed by the main body 120 and the valve body 140 in the first state S1, similar to the embodiment described above. The first flow path R1 is positioned between the second space V21' and the second flow path R2. In the second state S2, a second space V22' is formed by the main body 120 and the valve body 140.

[0103] However, in modified example A, high-pressure refrigerant flows into the second spaces V21' and V22'. Also, the first flow path R1 is located between the second space V21' and the second flow path R2.

[0104] When formed in this manner, the force F1' acting on the valve body 140 from the second flow path R2 side to the first flow path R1 side is reduced by the presence of the second space V22' (by force F2' acting in the opposite direction to force F1'). Note that the directions of forces F1' and F2' are opposite to those of forces F1 and F2, as can be seen by comparing Figures 6A and 6B with Figures 7A and 7B.

[0105] Furthermore, for the inflow of high-pressure refrigerant into the second spaces V21' and V22', a bypass passage 145 formed inside the valve body 140 can be used, as in the above embodiment.

[0106] (4-2) Modification B In the above embodiment, the sealing material 170 is fixed by the surface 122 of the main body 120. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 8, the sealing material 170 may be fixed to the surface 127 of the sealing portion 146 of the valve body 140 and move with the rotation of the valve body 140.

[0107] In this configuration, the sealing material 170 primarily seals the gap between the sealing material 170 and the surface 122 of the main body 120.

[0108] (4-3) Modification C In the above embodiment, the space inside the sealing material 170 becomes the second spaces V21 and V22, but the second spaces V21 and V22 are not limited to those formed in this manner. For example, at the position where the sealing material 170 is placed, as shown in Figure 9, a recess 125 is formed on the surface 122 of the main body 120, which is recessed in the direction away from the sealing portion 146 of the valve body 140, and the space mainly formed by this recess 125 may function as the second spaces V21 and V22. Also, although not shown, a recess may be provided on the surface 147 of the sealing portion 146 of the valve body 140, which is recessed in the direction away from the surface 122 of the main body 120.

[0109] Furthermore, if a recess is formed in the main body 120 or the valve body 140 in this manner, the sealing material 170 may be omitted if there is no particular problem in ensuring sealing performance (for example, if a slightly lower sealing performance does not pose a major problem), and the sealing portion 146 of the main body 120 and the valve body 140 are in direct contact with each other to seal the space between them.

[0110] (4-4) Modification D In the above embodiment, a bypass passage 145 is formed inside the valve body 140 (connecting portion 143). However, it is not limited to this, and as shown in Figure 10, a bypass passage 128 that connects the second spaces V21, V22 and the first flow path R1 may be formed across the valve body 140 and the main body 120 only when the state of the flow path switching valve 100 is in the first state S1 or when the state of the flow path switching valve 100 is in the second state S2.

[0111] (4-5) Modification E In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the flow path switching valve 100 is provided in the utilization unit 4, but the location where the flow path switching valve 100 is installed is not limited to within the utilization unit 4. The flow path switching valve 100 may be provided in the heat source unit 2, or it may be provided separately in the connecting pipes 6 and 8 from the heat source unit 2 and the utilization unit 4.

[0112] (4-6) Modification F In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the flow path switching valve 100 is used to control the flow direction of the refrigerant flowing to the heat exchanger 22. However, the applications of the flow path switching valve 100 are not limited to the examples given.

[0113] For example, the flow path switching valve 100 may be used as a flow path switching mechanism 12. In this case, the discharge pipe 19b is connected to the second external port 130b, and the suction pipe 19a is connected to the third external port 130c.

[0114] <Note> While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as described in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0115] 1. Air conditioner (refrigeration cycle device) 10 Compressor 14 Heat source heat exchanger (first heat exchanger) 16. Expansion valve (expansion mechanism) 22 Heat exchanger used (second heat exchanger) 26a First piping 26b Second piping 50 Refrigerant Circuit 100 Flow path switching valve 120 Main Unit 122 sides 122a Port 1 122b High-voltage port 122c low-voltage port 122d Port 2 128 Bypass Road 140 valve body 145 Bypass Road 150 Drive unit 170 sealant O Rotation axis R1 First channel (internal channel) R2 Second channel (internal channel) S1 First state S2 Second state V1 1st space V21 2nd space V22 2nd space V21' 2nd space V22' 2nd space [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0116] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-108782

Claims

1. A main body (120) having a first space (V1) formed inside, and a high-pressure port (122b), a low-pressure port (122c), a first port (122a), and a second port (122d) which serve as inlets and outlets for refrigerant provided on the surface (122) forming the first space, A valve body (140) having internal flow paths (R1, R2), housed inside the first space, and switching between a first state (S1) in which the low-pressure port (122c) and the first port (122a) are connected and the high-pressure port (122b) and the second port (122d) are connected and a second state (S2) in which the low-pressure port (122c) and the second port (122d) are connected and the high-pressure port (122b) and the first port (122a) are connected, A drive unit (150) that drives the valve body to switch between the first state and the second state, Equipped with, The internal flow path includes a first flow path (R1) that connects the low-pressure port and the first port in the first state and connects the low-pressure port and the second port in the second state, and a second flow path (R2) that connects the high-pressure port and the second port in the first state and connects the high-pressure port and the first port in the second state. 1) In the first or second state, a second space (V21', V22') is formed by the main body and the valve body, low-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space, and the second flow path is positioned between the second space and the first flow path, or 2) In the first or second state, a second space (V21, V22) is formed by the main body and the valve body, high-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space, and the first flow path is positioned between the second space and the second flow path. Flow path switching valve (100).

2. When a low-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space in the first or second state, the second space and the first flow path are connected by bypass paths (128, 145). If high-pressure refrigerant flows into the second space in the first or second state, the second space and the second flow path are connected by bypass paths (128, 145). The flow path switching valve according to claim 1.

3. The bypass passage (145) is formed inside the valve body. The flow path switching valve according to claim 2.

4. The sealing material (170) further comprises the main body and the valve body together forming the second space, The sealing material seals the space between the main body and the valve body. A flow path switching valve according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The valve body switches between the first state and the second state by rotating around the axis of rotation (O). A flow path switching valve according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The valve body is ball-shaped, with at least a portion of its outer surface being spherical. A flow path switching valve according to claim 1 or 2.

7. A refrigerant circuit (50) having a compressor (10), a first heat exchanger (14), a second heat exchanger (22), and an expansion mechanism (16), A flow path switching valve according to claim 1 or 2 is provided in the refrigerant circuit, A refrigeration cycle device (1) equipped with the following:

8. The refrigerant circuit includes a first pipe (26a) connected to the second heat exchanger through which refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger flows, and a second pipe (26b) connected to the second heat exchanger through which refrigerant flowing out of the second heat exchanger flows. The high-pressure port is connected to the first piping, The low-pressure port is connected to the second piping, The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 7.

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