Multi-path fluid control valve

Abstract

The present invention aims to produce an improved multi-path fluid control valve that can efficiently and effectively provide fluid communication between a number of different inlets and outlets depending on the selected configuration of the multi-path fluid control valve. [Solution] The fluid control valve of the present invention includes a valve assembly including a ring gear, an array of first rotary valve bodies, an array of second rotary valve bodies, and a seal plate, each of the first rotary valve bodies including at least one first flow passage formed therethrough, and each of the second rotary valve bodies including at least one second flow passage formed therethrough.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid control valve, and more particularly to a multi-path fluid control valve that can be adjusted to a number of different configurations to establish a number of different flow paths through the fluid control valve. [Background technology]

[0002] It is becoming increasingly common to integrate multi-channel valves in various fluid systems to define desired flow configurations for multiple different fluid flow paths associated with the fluid, rather than simply permitting or preventing the flow of a single fluid flow path therethrough. Such multi-flow valves can be used to combine, split, switch, or return one or more fluid flow paths associated with such a fluid system. Such multi-channel valves can be used in fluid systems with multiple different operating modes, allowing for multiple different flow configurations through such multi-channel valves, including switching a flow path that traditionally functions as an inlet to function as an outlet, and vice versa, to communicate that fluid with desired components of the associated fluid system. For example, such multi-flow valves can be used within thermal management systems configured to heat or cool various vehicle components or to heat or cool the air provided to the vehicle's cabin, depending on the vehicle's selected operating mode. Such multi-flow valves can be used to improve system efficiency by enabling complex flow configurations that avoid unnecessary energy loss in certain processes associated with the operation of the fluid system.

[0003] However, such multi-flow valves typically suffer from added complexity, such as additional fluid connections that must be sealed and additional moving parts required to achieve a desired flow configuration. Such complexity increases the cost of the system, makes it difficult to package the multi-channel valve relative to adjacent components, and may require the creation of control schemes to ensure proper operation of the system when switching the multi-channel valve to different positions, potentially associated with switching the system to a different operating mode that requires significant changes in the flow configuration through the multi-channel valve. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to produce an improved multi-path fluid control valve that can efficiently and effectively provide fluid communication between a number of different inlets and outlets depending on the selected configuration of the multi-path fluid control valve. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The fluid control valve including a first valve assembly of the present invention is a fluid control valve including a first valve assembly, the first valve assembly including a cylindrical first ring gear selectively rotating about a rotation axis of the first ring gear, and an array of first rotary valve bodies, each of the first rotary valve bodies being cylindrical in shape and configured to selectively rotate about a corresponding rotation axis in response to rotation of the first ring gear, each of the first rotary valve bodies including at least one first passage formed therethrough, an array of second rotary valve bodies offset from the array of first rotary valve bodies with respect to an axial direction of the first ring gear, each of the second rotary valve bodies The valve assembly is characterized in that it comprises a cylindrical second ring gear that is cylindrical and selectively rotates about a corresponding rotation axis in response to rotation of the first ring gear, an array of second rotary valve bodies each including at least one second flow passage formed therethrough, and a first seal plate disposed between the array of first rotary valve bodies and the array of second rotary valve bodies in the axial direction of the first ring gear, the first seal plate including a plurality of first flow passage openings formed therethrough in the axial direction, each of the first flow passage openings configured to provide fluid communication between one of the first flow passages in the array of first rotary valve bodies and one of the second flow passages in the array of second rotary valve bodies. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a multi-path fluid control valve of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 2] 2 is an exploded perspective view of the control valve of FIG. 1 showing the arrangement of two axially adjacent valve assemblies of the control valve. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the internal components forming one of the valve assemblies of the control valve, illustrating the surrounding ring gear. [Figure 4]4 shows a perspective view of a stacked pair of valve assemblies disclosed in FIG. 3, with one of the ring gears positioned to surround each one of the valve assemblies. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a rotary valve body of a control valve, in which the end faces of the rotary valve body are shown transparent to show the internal flow paths within the rotary valve body, and the peripheries of each flow path opening formed through each of the transparent end faces are shown with dotted lines. [Figure 6] The figure shows the interaction between multiple rotary valve bodies and the ring gear that surrounds them, with the end faces of each rotary valve body shown transparent to reveal the internal flow paths. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a partial schematic diagram of one exemplary configuration of a rotary valve body of a first layer of a valve assembly relative to a pair of rotary valve bodies of a second adjacent layer of the valve assembly according to a first rotational position of the ring gear, showing the rotary valve bodies of the adjacent layers in a transparent, overlapping format to illustrate how the flow paths of the second layer and the first layer potentially interact according to the disclosed configuration. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a partial schematic diagram of another exemplary configuration of one of the first layer rotary valve bodies relative to a pair of second layer rotary valve bodies according to a second rotational position of the ring gear, showing the adjacent layer rotary valve bodies in a transparent, overlapping format to illustrate how the second layer flow paths and first layer flow paths interact according to the disclosed configuration. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a first flow path configuration possible between adjacent layers of a valve assembly having six different possible flow path positions associated with each of the rotary valve bodies of each adjacent layer of the present invention, the first flow path configuration including each overlapping rotary valve body being axially aligned with and overlapping two of the rotary valve bodies of the adjacent layer at each of two different flow path positions for each overlapping rotary valve body. [Figure 10]FIG. 1 illustrates a second flow path configuration possible between adjacent layers of a valve assembly of the present invention having six different possible flow path positions associated with each of the rotary valve bodies of each adjacent layer, the second flow path configuration including each overlapping rotary valve body axially aligned with two of the rotary valve bodies of the adjacent layer at one possible flow path position for each overlapping rotary valve body. [Figure 11] 10 is a perspective view of a planetary multi-path fluid control valve of the present invention, the control valve using the first flow path configuration disclosed in FIG. 9. [Figure 12] 12 is a perspective view of the control valve of FIG. 11 with the seal plate and casing cover plate removed to expose one exemplary flow path configuration obtained through a first flow path configuration, exposing the flow paths and rotary valve body for one layer of the valve assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The following detailed description and accompanying drawings describe and illustrate various embodiments of the invention. The description and drawings are intended to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In connection with the methods disclosed, the steps presented are exemplary in nature, and the order of the steps is not necessary or critical.

[0008] 1-8 illustrate a multi-path fluid control valve 10 of the present invention, hereinafter simply referred to as the "control valve 10." The presently disclosed control valve 10 may be utilized in automotive applications, including, for example, control of various fluids associated with operating the associated vehicle's hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel, refrigeration, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Fluids suitable for use with the control valve 10 may be air, any hydraulic fluid, any type of fuel, any refrigerant, or any coolant commonly used in connection with such vehicle systems, as appropriate. However, it will be apparent that the control valve 10 of the present invention may be configured for use with any fluid associated with any fluid transfer system without necessarily departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0009] The control valve (10) includes a casing (12) comprised of a first shell (13) and a cooperating second shell (14) that can be joined along a seam that may be substantially planar in construction. Each of the first shell (13) and the second shell (14) includes a plurality of flow paths (15) extending therefrom. The flow paths (15) may include an external flow path (15a) and a turnaround flow path (15b). The external flow path (15a) is configured to function as an inlet or outlet of the control valve (10) for transmitting or receiving associated fluids from or to external components and / or fluid lines of an associated fluid system. Accordingly, each external flow path (15a) may be connected at its respective distal end to a corresponding fluid line or adjacent component. The turnaround flow path (15b) may include a turnaround conduit extending at a 180-degree angle from the corresponding shell (13, 14) to change the flow direction of the fluid passing therethrough. As best shown in FIG. 2, each of the flow channels (15) is in fluid communication with a hollow space defined within a corresponding one of the shells (13, 14) via an opening formed through the axial end wall of the corresponding one of the shells (13, 14).

[0010] The control valve (10) further includes a first actuator (17) and a second actuator (18). If desired, each actuator (17, 18) may be a rotary actuator. However, other actuators may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. The first actuator (17) is disposed within the hollow space defined by the first shell (13) and includes an axially extending rotor housed within an opening formed therethrough for operative coupling with a first ring gear (31) of a first gear assembly (30). Similarly, the second actuator (18) includes an axially extending rotor housed within an opening formed therethrough for operative coupling with a second ring gear (33) of a second gear assembly (32) disposed within the hollow space defined by the second shell (14). The first ring gear (31) of the first valve assembly (30) is substantially cylindrical and substantially conforms to the shape of the hollow space of the first shell (13). The first ring gear (31) is rotatably mounted in the casing (12) to rotate about a central axis of rotation that coincides with the axial direction of the control valve (10), which will be described later. The outer circumferential surface of the first ring gear (31) includes external teeth configured to mesh with corresponding teeth on the first actuator (17) to cause selective rotation of the first ring gear (31) relative to the casing (12). The first actuator (17) may be any type of actuator suitable for causing selective rotation of the first ring gear (31) in one of two opposing rotational directions and is therefore not limited to the use of an axially extending rotor. For example, the second actuator (18) may be a linear actuator having teeth configured to mesh with the external teeth (35) of the first ring gear (31), such that the linear actuator reciprocates while meshing with the external teeth (25) to define the desired rotation of the first ring gear (31). The second actuator (18) is not limited to an axially extending rotor, but may be any actuator capable of causing selective rotation of the second ring gear (33) in one of two opposing rotational directions.The present invention is also not limited to the use of geared rotational movement, as various other rotational drive systems may be used to define the rotation of each component described and illustrated. Drive mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, worm drives, belts, spurs, etc.

[0011] The first valve assembly (30) further includes a first seal plate (51), an array of first rotary valve bodies (60), a first fixed valve rotary valve body (70), a second seal plate (52), an array of second rotary valve bodies (80), a second fixed valve rotary valve body (90), and a third seal plate (53). Each of the seal plates (51, 52, 53) is substantially planar and disposed perpendicular to the axial direction of the control valve (10), and the seal plates (51, 52, 53) are spaced apart from one another in the axial direction of the control valve (10). The first array of rotary valve bodies (60) and the first fixed valve rotary valve body (70) are disposed between the first seal plate (51) and the second seal plate (52), respectively, and the array of second rotary valve bodies (80) and the second fixed valve rotary valve body (90) are disposed between the second seal plate (52) and the third seal plate (53), respectively. Each of the rotary valve body (60) and the first fixed valve rotary valve body (70) extends axially such that opposing axial end faces thereof are flush with and in contact with the opposing ones of the seal plates (51, 52) to ensure proper seals are formed at each mating position. Similarly, each of the rotary valve body (80) and the second fixed valve rotary valve body (90) extends axially such that opposing axial end faces thereof are flush with and in contact with the seal plates (52, 53).

[0012] Thus, the first valve assembly (30) can be said to have a laminated configuration including first and second layers, each layer separated from the other by one of the sealing plates (51, 52, 53) relative to the axial direction of the first valve assembly (30). The laminated configuration can include the layers and sealing plates (51, 52, 53) axially compressed together to ensure that an adequate sealing force exists at the axial end faces of each of the described components. This force can be selected to maintain a desired sealing effect while allowing relative movement between the components forming each valve assembly (30, 32). As described in more detail below, this force can be adjusted to facilitate relative movement between the components forming the valve assemblies (30, 32).

[0013] The first seal plate (51) includes a plurality of flow passage openings (55) formed axially therethrough. Each flow passage opening (55) may be axially aligned with one of the flow passages (15) in the axial end wall of the first shell (13) and configured to allow fluid to flow axially through the first seal plate (51) to enter or exit the remainder of the first valve assembly (30). As described below, some of the locations of the flow passages (15) may not include one of the axially aligned flow passage openings (55) formed in the first seal plate (51), thereby forming wall segments that restrict fluid from axially passing through the first seal plate (51). The creation of such segments may occur when the fluid configuration at a location without one of the flow passage openings (55) includes fluid being redirected laterally or fluid being induced to change direction to flow in an opposing axial direction.

[0014] As best shown in FIG. 5, each of the rotary valve bodies 60 forming the first array is substantially cylindrical in shape and includes a first axial end face 61, an opposing second axial end face 62, and a circumferential surface 63 axially connecting the end faces 61, 62. The circumferential surface 63 includes external teeth 65 configured to mesh with the internal teeth 36 disposed along the inner circumferential surface of the first ring gear 31. Each of the rotary valve bodies 60 is rotatably mounted to the stationary casing 12 to permit rotation of each rotary valve body 60 about a corresponding central axis of rotation relative to the stationary casing 12. As shown in FIG. 2, the axis of rotation of each rotary valve body 60 may be formed by a shaft or rod extending axially through the control valve 10. Components including each of the seal plates (51, 52, 53), each of the rotary valve bodies (60, 80), and each of the fixed valve rotary valve bodies (70, 90) may include axially extending openings or holes configured to accommodate such shafts or rods. Such shafts or rods may also extend through the control valve (10) to assemble the axially stacked components in a desired configuration.

[0015] Each of the rotary valve bodies 60 is positioned within the first ring gear 31 such that the circumferential surface 63 of each rotary valve body 60 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the first ring gear 31 at one tangential position to allow meshing between the internal teeth 36 of the ring gear 31 and the external teeth 65 of the rotary valve body 60. Rotation of the first ring gear 31 caused by actuation of the first actuator 17 can thus cause rotation of each of the rotary valve bodies 60, instantly creating meshing between the internal teeth 36 of the first ring gear 31 and the external teeth 65 of each rotary valve body 60.

[0016] The inner circumferential surface of the first ring gear (31) may include segments without internal teeth (36) that cause each valve rotary valve body (60) to immediately face those segments at the tangential positions described above, such that the first ring gear (31) remains fixed and there is no relative rotation when the first ring gear (31) passes over the top without contact between the first ring gear (31) and the opposing teeth (36, 35). Such discontinuous segments can be used to introduce variability into the configuration through the control valve (10) by allowing certain valve rotary valve bodies (60) to rotate to new operating positions while other certain valve rotary valve bodies (60) remain fixed in their conventional operating positions. For example, the first ring gear (31) is shown in Figure 6 as including an inner peripheral surface segment (38) that is free of internal teeth (36) immediately adjacent a tangent point of engagement with one of the valve rotary valve bodies (60), such that clockwise rotation of the first ring gear (31) prevents further rotation of one of the valve rotary valve bodies (60) about its corresponding axis of rotation. Conversely, the two remaining valve rotary valve bodies (60) in Figure 6 are configured to rotate clockwise in response to clockwise rotation of the first ring gear (31), causing the valve rotary valve body (60) to assume a new operating position in response to said rotation.

[0017] The first axial end surface 61 of each rotary valve body 60 includes an array of first fluid passages 66, while the second axial end surface 62 of each rotary valve body 60 includes an array of second fluid passages 67. Each fluid passage 66, 67 represents an axially extending opening formed through a corresponding one of the axial end surfaces 61, 62, and each fluid passage 66, 67 is in fluid communication with at least one fluid passage 68 formed through the rotary valve body 60. Each fluid passage 68 is a hollow space within the rotary valve body 60 that connects at least two of the fluid passages 66, 67 to each other, and each fluid passage 66, 67 functions as an inlet or outlet to the corresponding fluid passage 68.

[0018] One or more flow channels 68 may extend axially to provide fluid communication between one or more first flow channels 66 and one or more second flow channels 67. One or more flow channels 68 may also extend through the rotary valve body 60 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction, thereby allowing fluid communication between laterally offset ones of the flow channels 66, 67. Such flow channels 68 may contain corresponding fluid combinations, including fluid communication in both axial and lateral directions perpendicular to the axial direction. To achieve various flow relationships between the various different flow channels 66, 67, the flow channels 68 may include various different flow configurations, including different fluid segments or combinations. For example, any number of the first flow paths (66) can be in communication with any number and combination of the remaining first flow paths (0, inclusive), any number of the second flow paths (67) can be in communication with any number and combination of the remaining second flow paths (0, inclusive), and any number and combination of the first flow paths (66) can be in communication with any number and combination of the second flow paths (67). In some situations, one of the flow paths (68) can be extended to provide a 180-degree turnaround to change the axial direction of the fluid flow between only the first flow paths (66), or between only the second flow paths (67), or between only the first flow paths (66) and the second flow paths (67). In other situations, the flow from one of the flow paths (66, 67) can branch off to any number of other flow paths (66, 67) located above one of the axial end faces (61, 62). In view of such variability, it should be understood that the flow paths (68) are exemplary in nature, as other flow configurations and combinations of the illustrated flow path configurations may be used to achieve configurations different from those shown in the accompanying drawings, depending on the circumstances. In Figures 1-8, each of the first flow paths (66) is connected to an axially aligned one of the second flow paths (67) by a substantially cylindrical wall segment having a configuration suitable to define the desired flow configuration of any fluid entering or exiting that flow path (66, 67).If purely axial flow is desired, the cylindrical wall segments can extend axially between the aligned flow channels (66, 67) without any other flow channel openings within the wall segments, thereby forming an axially extending, cylindrically shaped flow channel (68) through the interior of the cylindrical wall segments. In other situations where at least some flow is desired to be guided to a lateral position within the valve body (60), the cylindrical wall segments can include an opening formed in their circumferential surface for communication with a flow channel opening formed between adjacent locations of the flow channels (66, 67) (extending linearly between adjacent ones of the flow channels (66, 67)), which flow channel opening is connected to another opening formed in the circumferential surface of the cylindrical wall segments associated with the adjacently disposed flow channels (66, 67). Such a flow channel (68) can thus include a portion of the first cylindrical wall segment, the connecting flow channel opening, and the interior of the second cylindrical wall segment. The flow channel (68) can further include additional lateral flow channel openings to connect to additional cylindrical wall segments associated with the remaining two locations of the flow channels (66, 67) as needed based on the variability described above. An example of a flow channel configuration is shown in Figure 5, where the axial end faces (61, 62) are shown transparent to illustrate the configuration of the flow channel (68) formed between the different locations of the flow channels (66, 67), identified by dotted lines.

[0019] It should be apparent that the flow paths 68 are not limited to the configuration described or illustrated, as virtually any configuration of hollow openings formed within each of the valve rotary valve bodies 60 may be used to provide fluid communication between any set of associated flow paths 66, 67, depending on the desired fluid configuration through the valve rotary valve body 60. For example, to provide fluid communication between adjacent locations of the flow paths 66, 67 without fluid communication between two different flow paths 68, at least one of the flow paths 68 may extend through the valve rotary valve body 60 to a location that is axially adjacent but separated from another of the flow paths 68 passing through the valve rotary valve body 60. For example, a flow path 68 can connect a pair of first flow paths 66 while occupying only one axial half of the valve rotary body 60, such as when a 180-degree turn is required for the fluid in the corresponding first flow path 66, using a partition that separates the flow path 68 from any of the adjacent flow paths 68 associated with the aligned second fluid port 67. The flow path 68 can also include a serpentine configuration as it passes through the corresponding valve rotary body 60, including turns and changes necessary to achieve a desired flow configuration between the corresponding flow paths 66, 67, including extending at least partially axially and at least partially in one or more lateral directions perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0020] Each of the first and second groups of flow passages 66 and 67 is equally spaced from the axis of rotation of the rotary valve body 60. Specifically, the central axis passing through the center of each of the groups of flow passages 66, 67 is a common distance from the axis of rotation of the rotary valve body 60. This common distance is shared among all of the rotary valve bodies 60 forming each array. In the circumferential direction of each rotary valve body 60, adjacent ones of the flow passages 66, 67 are also offset by a common angular displacement, at equal angles relative to the axis of rotation of the rotary valve body 60. In the embodiment of Figures 1-8, the flow passages 66, 67 are spaced apart at 90° intervals to allow for four different positions of the flow passages 66, 67 about the axis of rotation. Such equal spacing and equal angular displacement ensures that each flow passage 66, 67 occupies the same position after rotation of the corresponding rotary valve element 60 through an angle corresponding to the angular displacement between adjacent flow passages 66, 67. Furthermore, each rotary valve element 60 is positioned such that each first flow passage 66 of each rotary valve element 60 is axially aligned with a corresponding one of the flow passage openings 55 formed through the first seal plate 51 whenever the corresponding rotary valve element 60 is rotated a distance corresponding to the angular offset between the adjacent flow passages 66, 67.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiments of Figures 1-8, each rotary valve body 60 includes one of four flow passages 66, 67 at four locations above each of the axial end faces 61, 62, such that four different flow passage openings are provided in each of the axial end faces 61, 62. However, it will be apparent that the present invention is not limited to this configuration. In some embodiments, one or more of the illustrated flow passages 66, 67 can be closed off by a wall segment forming part of the axial end face 61, 62, such that no flow occurs within or outside the rotary valve body 60 relative to the axial end face 61, 62. The closure of one of the flow passages 66, 67 at one of the locations on the axial end face 61, 62 is determined based on the flow configuration through the rotary valve body 60 relative to adjacent flow passages formed through the control valve 10.

[0022] As another example, each of the flow channels (66, 67) is not necessarily limited to having a circular shape corresponding to one of the four aforementioned flow channel locations, as any shape and positioning of the flow channels (66, 67) can be provided to align the flow channels (66, 67) with the flow channel openings of adjacent layers to provide fluid communication. For example, two adjacent ones of the circular openings can be joined by an arcuate slot extending circumferentially between the two disclosed circular opening locations, as opposed to two separate circular openings that communicate as a common component in a common direction. Adjacent seal plates can similarly include arcuate slots that match shapes formed in the valve body. Further examples of such flow combinations to multiple different rotationally spaced flow channel locations are shown and described below with reference to Figures 11 and 12.

[0023] The first fixed valve rotary valve body 70 is positioned between the first seal plate 51 and the second seal plate 52 in a position where one of the valve rotary valve bodies 60 is absent. The first fixed valve rotary valve body 70 includes a plurality of flow passages 71 formed therethrough, each of which is aligned with one of the flow passage openings 55 formed through the first seal plate 51 that is not aligned with one of the first flow passages 66 of the valve rotary valve body 60. The first fixed valve rotary valve body 70 is configured to remain stationary while the valve rotary valve body 60 is repositioned through selective rotation and may alternatively be referred to as the first fixed valve rotary valve body 70. Alternatively, the first fixed valve rotary valve body 70 may be provided as multiple spaced apart structures having flow passages in the same position, if desired, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0024] While flow path 71 is illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 as extending purely axially through first fixed-valve rotary valve body 70, it should be understood that the same variability in possible configurations of flow paths 68 can also be applied to flow paths 71 without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, transversely extending passages can be provided between the illustrated flow paths 71 to redirect fluid flow laterally from one flow path location to another or to split or combine flows at different flow path locations. Any flow configuration illustrated or described with reference to one of flow paths 68 extending between two or more flow paths 66, 67 can be associated with one of flow paths 71 to direct the associated fluid or fluids in any desired transverse and / or axial combination without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, any fixed-valve rotary valve body can include flow configurations similar to any of the disclosed casing shells 13, 14, including turnaround and axial flow sections, as needed.

[0025] The second seal plate 52 has a plurality of flow passage openings 55 formed therein. Each of the flow passage openings 55 in the second seal plate 52 is axially aligned with one of the second flow passages 67 in one of the valve rotary valve bodies 60 or one of the flow passages 71 in the first fixed valve rotary valve body 70. Each of the flow passage openings 55 in the second seal plate 52 allows fluid communication between two different layers of the first valve assembly 30 separated by the second seal plate 52. Specifically, the flow path openings (55) are assigned to a first set of flow path openings (55) and a second set of flow path openings (55), each of the flow path openings (55) assigned to the first set being configured to selectively provide fluid communication between flow paths formed between adjacent layers of the rotary valve body (60, 80), and each of the flow path openings (55) assigned to the second set being configured to selectively provide fluid communication between one of the flow paths of one of the layers of the rotary valve body (60, 80) and one of the flow paths formed through one of the fixed valve rotary valve bodies (70, 90) of an adjacent layer.

[0026] The general structure and operation of each of the rotary valve bodies 80 in the second array is similar to that of the rotary valve bodies 60 in the first array, and therefore will not be described in detail. However, as previously mentioned, each individual rotary valve body 60 and each individual rotary valve body 80 can have a unique configuration of flow passages formed therethrough, and the present invention is not limited to embodiments in which some or all of the flow passage configurations are repeated across multiple valve bodies 60, 80 or multiple layers thereof. As used hereinafter, each rotary valve body 80 in the second array includes a plurality of first flow passages 86 formed at a first axial end toward the second seal plate 52 and a plurality of second flow passages 87 formed at a second axial end toward the third seal plate 53. Each second flow passage 87 is axially aligned with a corresponding one of the flow passage openings 55 formed through the third seal plate 53.

[0027] Each valve rotary valve element (80) has a similar tooth profile so that it rotates about its own rotation axis when meshing with the internal teeth (36) of the first ring gear (31) due to the configuration of the internal teeth (36) along the inner peripheral surface of the first ring gear (31). Specifically, when the first ring gear (31) rotates, each valve rotary valve element (80) rotates while meshing with a segment of the first ring gear (31) that has internal teeth (36). On the other hand, when a segment of the first ring gear (31) that does not have internal teeth (36) passes through the meshing position of the corresponding rotary valve element of the valve rotary valve element (80), each valve rotary valve element (80) may not rotate.

[0028] The second fixed valve rotary valve body (90) is structurally identical to the first fixed valve rotary valve body (70) and similarly includes a plurality of flow passages (91) formed therethrough. Each flow passage (91) is axially aligned at its axial end with one of the second flow passages (67) of one of the valve rotary valve bodies (60) (through one of the flow passage openings (55) in the second seal plate (52)). Each flow passage (91) is further axially aligned with one of the flow passage openings (55) formed through the third seal plate (53) at the opposite end of the valve rotary valve body (60). Additional passages may be incorporated into the second stationary valve body (90) in any desired manner, such as any flow path configuration described herein or alternatively described with reference to either of the casing shells (13, 14), as suitable for communicating fluids or fluids between different locations of the flow paths (67, 67) of the flow path openings (68) to redirect, divide, or combine various fluids entering the second stationary valve body (90). The second stationary valve rotating valve body (90) remains stationary during rotation of the first ring gear (31).

[0029] The first layer includes three rotary valve bodies (60) arranged in an equilateral triangle with the rotation axes of the rotary valve bodies (60) spaced apart the same distance as the rotation axis of the first ring gear (31) and with the first fixed rotary valve body (70) filling at least a portion of the gap between the rotary valve bodies (60). The second layer includes three rotary valve bodies (80) arranged in an equilateral triangle with the rotation axes of the rotary valve bodies (80) spaced apart the same distance as the rotation axis of the first ring gear (31) and with the second fixed rotary valve body (90) filling at least a portion of the gap between the rotary valve bodies (80). However, the second layer of the first valve assembly (30) formed by the second array of rotary valve bodies (80) and the second fixed rotary valve bodies (90) is angularly offset by 60 degrees relative to the first layer formed by the first array of rotary valve bodies (60) and the first fixed rotary valve bodies (70) about the rotational axis of the first ring gear (31). Due to this angular offset, each rotary valve body (60) in the first layer is axially aligned with one of the two second flow passages (67) formed through the second fixed rotary valve body (90) and one of the second flow passages (67) is axially aligned with one of the first flow passages (86) of the first rotary valve bodies of the rotary valve bodies (80) in the second array, and another of the second flow passages (67) is axially aligned with one of the first flow passages (86) of the second rotary valve bodies of the rotary valve bodies (80) in the second array. The same relationship exists for each of the valve rotary valve bodies (80), including two first flow passages (86) axially aligned with one of the flow passages (71) of the first fixed valve rotary valve body (70), one of the first flow passages (86) axially aligned with one of the second flow passages (86) of the first rotary valve body of the valve rotary valve body (60), and another of the first flow passages (86) axially aligned with one of the second flow passages (67) of the second rotary valve body of the valve rotary valve body (60).

[0030] 1-8, the rotary valve bodies (60, 80) are rotatable through four different rotational positions, each corresponding to a different configuration of flow passages through the corresponding rotary valve body (60, 80). The different rotational positions can be achieved by rotating the first ring gear (31) through a corresponding rotational angle when the teeth of the first ring gear (31) and the corresponding teeth of the rotary valve body (60, 80) mesh with each other. Thus, in some situations, one or more rotary valve bodies (60, 80) can be rotated to each of four different positions via four different rotations of the first ring gear (31). This situation can occur when any of the discontinuous segments (38) of the internal teeth (36) described above do not pass through one of the rotary valve bodies (60, 80). In other situations, one or more discontinuous segments 38 of the internal teeth 36 may pass through any of the rotary valve bodies 60, 80, so that more than four different rotational adjustments of the first ring gear 31 are necessary to achieve each of the four different possible positions of the rotary valve body 60, 80. It is apparent that, due to the manner in which the discontinuous segments 38 of the internal teeth 36 pass through subsequent rotary valve bodies 60, 80, successive rotations of the first ring gear 31 in any direction result in a progression of alternative operating modes of the corresponding rotary valve body 60, 80, thereby alternating between successive rotations of the first ring gear 31 in which the rotary valve body 60, 80 does not undergo rotational progression.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, the structure of the first valve assembly 30 associated with the first ring gear 31 is substantially similar to the structure of the second valve assembly 32 associated with the second ring gear 33, including the stacking of the valve assemblies 30, 32 relative to one another and the repeated angular offsets between different features relative to the axial direction of the control valve 10. Due to this similarity, a description of the components forming the second valve assembly 32 will be omitted, as will a description of the manner in which those components operate. As noted above, any flow passages formed through the corresponding valve rotary valve bodies of the second valve assembly 32 can be formed to include any desired configuration consistent with the required flow configuration through the control valve 10, and therefore, the configurations shown or described herein are not intended to be limiting.

[0032] Each of the valve rotary valve bodies forming either of the valve assemblies (30, 32) can be injection molded in the shapes and configurations described above. Each valve rotary valve body can be configured with one, two, or three sides, by way of non-limiting example. Each of the axial end surfaces of each valve rotary valve body can be associated with an O-ring or other sealing member to facilitate sealing with an adjacent seal plate, or can be formed or coated with a low-friction and / or low-wear material, such as a ceramic, to provide such sealing. Flow passages can be molded, machined, or otherwise formed within the valve rotary valve body. Additionally, each seal plate can be formed or coated with a low-friction material or include a sealing member, such as an O-ring, along a major surface to surround or restrict corresponding flow passage openings oriented toward the rotating or stationary valve rotary valve body.

[0033] In operation, the first ring gear 31 is rotated to rotate each of the rotary valve bodies 60, 80 in accordance with the tooth profile relationship that exists between each of the rotary valve bodies 60, 80 and the first ring gear 31 until a desired configuration is reached. Additionally, the second ring gear 33 is rotated to rotate each of the rotary valve bodies of the second valve assembly 32 to the desired configuration. Tuning the control valve 10 to a particular operating mode can include rotating only the first ring gear 31, only the second ring gear 32, or a combination of rotating each of the ring gears 31, 32, depending on the particular flow configuration established through the control valve 10.

[0034] Fluid enters the control valve 10 through one or more external flow passages 15a present within the first shell 13. The fluid passes through the external flow passages 15a and then through one of the flow passage openings 55 formed through the first seal plate 51. The fluid then axially passes through any of the flow passage openings 71 in the first fixed valve rotary valve body 70 that are axially aligned with the fluid flow. The fluid also enters each of the first flow passages 66 in the rotary valve body 60 that are axially aligned with the external flow passages 15, which transmit the fluid for distribution to a combination of the remaining flow passages 66, 67 formed in the rotary valve body 60, depending on the flow passage configuration. Along these flow passages 68, the fluid can travel axially through the control valve 10 or laterally to another one of the flow passages 66, 67. The manner in which at least a portion of each rotary valve body (60) is partially axially aligned with at least a portion of each adjacent rotary valve body (80) creates the ability to communicate fluid to any location within any of the flow channels (66, 67, 86, 87) formed within any of the rotary valve bodies (60, 80) through sufficient movement of the rotary valve body (60, 80), the fixed valve rotary valve body (70, 90), and any turnaround section (15b) provided within the external flow channel (15a). Fluid flow within the rotary valve body (60, 80) can include axial flow changes as well as lateral flow changes if necessary for the desired flow configuration. In some embodiments, fluid flow within the fixed valve rotary valve body (70, 90) can include lateral flow changes as well as the illustrated axial through flow.

[0035] Fluid advances through the second valve assembly (32) in the same manner as described above with reference to the first valve assembly (30), with the alignment of the various flow features, the selected rotational position of each rotary valve body, the angular offset between adjacent layers, and the flow paths defined within each rotary valve body determining the flow paths that the fluid will occupy. Specifically, the third seal plate (53) can serve as the first seal plate for the next assembly, with the remaining layers of the structure repeatedly operating in the same manner relative to the axial direction of the control valve (10).

[0036] It should be understood that some configurations may include some fluid remaining in only one of the valve assemblies (30, 32) so as to rotate about and flow toward one of the external flow paths (15 a) of the same casing shell (13, 14) without departing from the scope of the present invention. Such other flow configurations may include fluid flowing through successive layers of each of the valve assemblies (30, 32) to exit the remaining casing shell (13, 14) via the external flow path (15 a), as needed.

[0037] It is clear that the control valve (10) can utilize only one of the valve assemblies (30, 32) while allowing for variability in the flow path configuration therethrough. Therefore, the second valve assembly (32) can be omitted in this embodiment, and instead, the casing (12) can enclose only the first valve assembly (30), which can be actuated solely by the first actuator (17). Alternatively, these features can be repeated in the stacking direction to introduce additional flow path configurations, such as by using a second valve assembly having a similar repeating structure. In contrast to the two disclosed embodiments, one of the valve assemblies associated with one of the ring gears can include three or more layers of rotary and fixed valve bodies arranged within the assembly to define flow through three different layers with the actuation of a single actuator. Such a configuration can operate in the same manner as the configuration shown and described, but can only involve axial extension of the associated ring gear and the use of additional seal plates to engage with each of the three layers of the rotary valve body. It is understood that any combination of the layers can be used, such as one ring gear rotating two layers of the rotary valve body, another ring gear rotating three layers, or a combination of the two. Additionally, the ring gear of each valve assembly can be axially divided to include different patterns of internal teeth for each layer of the rotary valve body associated with the ring gear, including different circumferential distributions of discontinuous segments of teeth for different axial locations on the same ring gear. Such a configuration can allow axially adjacent segments of internal teeth to differ from one another, such that one segment includes teeth and an adjacent segment does not. In this way, additional variability can be added to the flow configuration achievable with rotation of one gear of the ring gear.

[0038] The control valve 10 can also include a hydraulic clutch feature that can use pressure from a fluid pump associated with fluid movement through the control valve 10 to separate features from each adjacent layer of the valve assembly when pressures experienced within the control valve 10 are relatively low, and axially engage features from adjacent layers when pressures are relatively high, thereby ensuring proper sealing when a new operating mode is achieved by reconfiguring the rotary valve body. This can be achieved through a system of integrated channels, diaphragms, and springs, as needed. Alternatively, the control valve 10 can include a mechanical ramp feature that is automatically engaged to secure and release the plate and engaged rotary valve body during the initial stages of rotation between adjacent features from the layers of the control valve 10.

[0039] 7 and 8 illustrate schematic diagrams of exemplary flow configurations that may exist between portions of different layers of a valve assembly according to certain aspects of the present invention. This example shows one of the first layer rotary valve bodies (60) positioned relative to two of the second layer rotary valve bodies (labeled 80a and 80b) to illustrate exemplary flow configurations that may occur between different layers in response to rotation of a ring gear that meshes with each of the disclosed layers, such as the first ring gear (31) of FIG. 2. It will be apparent based on the following description that the features illustrated for limited combinations of rotary valve bodies (60, 80a, 80b) can be repeated throughout the valve assembly to define desired axial or lateral fluid flow. The disclosed configuration includes a first portion of the rotary valve body 60 that is axially aligned and overlapping with a first portion of the rotary valve body 80a, where one of the flow passage openings (designated 55a for differentiation) that is axially disposed between the rotary valve body 60 and the rotary valve body 80a and thereby provides fluid communication between the different flow passages 68, 88 is formed axially through the overlapping and axially aligned portions, as opposed to one of the layers of the rotary valve body 60, 80 and one of the layers of the fixed valve rotary valve body 70, 90, whereby the flow passage opening 55a can be said to belong to a first set of flow passage openings 55 that provide fluid communication between adjacent layers of the rotary valve body 60, 80. The configuration also includes a second portion of the rotary valve body (60) axially aligned and overlapping with the first portion of the rotary valve body (80b), and another of the flow passage openings (55b) axially disposed therebetween to provide fluid communication between the second portion of the rotary valve body (60) and the first portion of the rotary valve body (80b).

[0040] Exemplary rotary valve bodies 60, 80a, 80b include flow passages 68, 88 having a variety of different configurations, including but not limited to: the rotary valve body 60 includes a first flow passage 68a in fluid communication with three of the possible adjacent flow passage positions and a second flow passage 68b extending axially through the rotary valve body 60 at one of the flow passage positions; the rotary valve body 80a includes a first flow passage 88a in fluid communication with two of the possible flow passage positions, a second flow passage 88b extending axially through the rotary valve body 80a at one of the flow passage positions, and a third flow passage 88c extending axially through the rotary valve body 80a at one of the flow passage positions; Rotatable valve body 80b includes a configuration similar to that of rotary valve body 60, including a first flow passage 88d in fluid communication with three of the possible adjacent flow passage locations, and a second flow passage 88e extending axially through rotary valve body 80b at one of the flow passage locations. It is envisioned in this embodiment that each of the four possible flow passage locations for each of rotary valve bodies 60, 80a, 80b includes at least one of opposing flow passages 66, 67 for fluid communication in either of the opposing axial directions following lateral flow as shown in that embodiment.

[0041] 7 corresponds to the first ring gear 31 (not shown in FIG. 7) selectively meshing with each of the illustrated rotary valve bodies 60, 80a, and 80b in a first rotational position. The first rotational position corresponds to the flow passage opening 55a, which is in fluid communication with the first flow passage 68a of the rotary valve body 60 and the first flow passage 88a of the rotary valve body 80a, on the opposite axial side. The first rotational position also corresponds to the flow passage opening 55b, which is in fluid communication with the first flow passage 68a of the rotary valve body 60 (via a flow passage other than the flow passage opening 55a) and the first flow passage 88d of the rotary valve body 80b, on the opposite axial side. As indicated by the arrows between the flow paths (68a, 88a, 88d) communicating with the multiple laterally displaced flow path positions, the first flow path configuration can optionally coincide with fluid flow throughout the three rotary valve bodies of the disclosed rotary valve bodies (60, 80a, 80b) when moved forward and rearward from the flow path openings (55a, 55b).

[0042] In contrast, Figure 8 corresponds to first ring gear 31 undergoing a selective degree of rotation to rotate each of rotary valve bodies 60 and 80a clockwise to one flow path position, as indicated by the rotational arrows around each of rotary valve bodies 60 and 80a shown in Figure 7. However, this example also corresponds to rotary valve body 80b having one of the discontinuous segments of teeth (not shown in Figure 7) at a tangential position to mesh with first ring gear 31 when rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position of Figure 8. Thus, rotary valve body 80b is shown not to undergo any rotation from Figure 7 to Figure 8.

[0043] The second rotational position of the first ring gear 31 corresponds with the flow passage openings 55a that are in fluid communication with the second axially extending flow passages 68b of the rotary valve body 60 and the second axially extending flow passages 88b of the rotary valve body 80a from the opposite axial side. The second rotational position also corresponds with the flow passage openings 55b that remain in fluid communication with the first flow passages 68a of the rotary valve body 60 (through different flow passages than shown in FIG. 7) and the first flow passages 88d of the rotary valve body 80b on the opposite axial side. As shown by the arrows of the flow passages 68a, 88a, 88d communicating with the multiple laterally displaced flow passage positions, the second flow passage configuration corresponds with different combinations of lateral and axial flow rates between the different flow passages 68a, 68b, 88a, 88b, 88c, 88d, 88e.

[0044] Although not shown in detail, the relationship that exists between the rotary valve body 60 and the remaining axially aligned flow passages 55c, 55d and an adjacent fixed valve rotary valve body (not shown) changes when the first ring gear 31 is adjusted from a first rotational position to a second rotational position. For example, flow passage opening 55c undergoes switching as which of the flow passages 68a, 68b are in fluid communication with the axially aligned fixed valve rotary valve body between the first and second rotational positions. It will be apparent from review of the remaining drawings that the same relationship exists for each of the non-aligned, axially positioned flow passage openings 55 between two of the rotary valve bodies of different layers of each of one or more valve assemblies, and therefore, this same concept is applicable at any position relative to the control valve 10.

[0045] 9 and 10 show additional possible configurations for the valve bodies of adjacent layers of a control valve having six flow passages in four opposing directions, however the same general principles still apply, with the valve bodies of adjacent layers being angularly offset such that at least a portion of the flow passages of adjacent layers are aligned with one another and each valve body axially overlaps multiple other valve bodies of the adjacent layer.

[0046] Specifically, Figure 9 illustrates an example of a closely packed six-fluid location configuration, in contrast to the single-fluid location overlap of Figures 1-8, in which each rotary valve body (60) in one layer overlaps two respective rotary valve bodies (80) in an adjacent layer at two different respective fluid location positions. Such a configuration allows the rotary valve bodies (60, 80) to be axially aligned with two respective fluid location openings (55) associated with adjacently positioned fixed valve rotary valve bodies (70, 90). Conversely, Figure 10 illustrates a less densely packed six-fluid location configuration in which each rotary valve body (60, 80) in one layer overlaps two respective rotary valve bodies (60, 80) in an adjacent layer at one fluid location. This configuration allows each rotary valve body (60, 80) to have four open fluid location positions for communication with adjacent fixed valve rotary valve bodies, etc., via fluid location openings that are not axially aligned with one of the adjacent axially adjacent rotary valve bodies (60, 80) in each layer. Each of the six position configurations includes flow path positions offset by approximately 60 degrees and spaced the same distance from the axis of rotation of the rotary valve body. While the six flow path position configurations operate in substantially the same manner as the disclosed four flow path position configurations, the introduction of additional flow paths results in important differences, such as different available overlaps and additional available actuation modes. For example, each rotary valve body can be associated with six different unique positions where the flow path positions align with adjacent layers of the valve assembly, as opposed to four valve assemblies, thereby increasing the number of available flow configurations that can be achieved using one of the ring gear assemblies and its actuators.

[0047] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate an embodiment of a six-channel configuration for use in a multi-channel planetary fluid control valve (110) of the present invention. The control valve (110) operates in substantially the same manner as the control valve (10), and therefore will not be described in detail below unless relevant. The control valve (110) is illustrated without the peripheral ring gear to more fully illustrate the stacked nature of the six-channel configuration when implemented in multiple layers. The control valve (110) includes opposing casing shells (113, 114) for alternating layers of first and second rotary valve bodies (160, 180), with angular offsets between the different layers of the rotary valve bodies (160, 180) to introduce axial alignment and overlap between axially adjacent portions of the rotary valve bodies (160, 180), consistent with the configuration of Figure 9. The alternating layers also include a fixed valve rotary valve body (170, 190) in locations where there is no rotary valve body (160, 180). One of the plurality of seal plates (150) is disposed between adjacent layers of the rotary valve bodies (160, 170, 180, 190).

[0048] Control valve 110 also illustrates the applicability of various features described herein to the control valves of Figures 1-8. As shown in Figure 11, shell 114 includes an axially extending external flow passage 115a associated with a single flow passage location, and a multi-flow passage external flow passage 115b in fluid communication with a plurality of different flow passage locations, the multi-flow passage external flow passage 115b including flow passage locations that are not immediately adjacent to the axially extending portion of flow passage 115b extending for connection to an external fluid line, pipe, hose, or the like. The flow combinations and redirections illustrated for such shell 114 can be applied to any of the passages formed through any of the rotary valve bodies of the fixed valve or rotary valve bodies, as desired, or used within one of the seal plates between adjacent layers of the valve assembly.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 12, a pair of rotary valve bodies (180a, 180b) from one of the layers of the rotary valve body (180) is shown with adjacent layers of the valve assembly omitted to expose them. Each of the rotary valve bodies (180a, 180b) includes a channel configuration located on the end face of the rotary valve body, in contrast to those illustrated throughout FIGS. 1 through 8. In particular, the rotary valve body (180a) includes a two-legged channel (188a) having a circumferential shape including two perforated legs of the channel (187a), for use of three independent circular channels at each of its channel locations. Alternatively, openings formed within the periphery of the channel (187a) can be in fluid communication with any of the aligned fluid openings formed through the adjacent seal plate (150). The rotary valve body (180b) includes a substantially triangular channel (188b) extending around the axis of rotation of the rotary valve body (180b). Here, the periphery of the channel (187b) extends to two non-adjacent channel locations around the axis of rotation. Thus, the opening formed by the perimeter of flow channel 187b may be in fluid communication with any of the flow channel openings formed within the adjacent seal plate 150 that are similarly axially aligned with triangular flow channel 188b. Thus, rotary valve bodies 180a, 180b represent additional flow configurations that may be used with any of the rotary valve bodies of any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0050] From the above description, those skilled in the art can easily ascertain the essential features of the present invention, and can make various changes and modifications to adapt the present invention to various uses and conditions without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0051] 10 Control Valve 12 Casing 13 First Shell 14 Second Shell 15 Flow path 15a External flow path 15b Turnaround channel 17 First Actuator 18 Second Actuator 25, 35, 36 outer teeth 30 Gear assembly, first valve assembly 31 First ring gear 32 Second gear assembly, valve assembly 33 Second ring gear 36 Inner teeth 51 First seal plate 52 Second seal plate 53 Seal plate, third seal plate 55 Flow path opening 55a Flow path opening 55b Flow path opening 55c, 55d flow path 60 First rotating valve body 61 1st axis end face 62 End face in 2nd axis direction 63 Circumferential Surface 65 Outer teeth 66 First Channel 67 Second Channel 68 Flow path 68a First flow path 68b Channel 70 First fixed valve rotating valve body 80 Second rotary valve body 80a, 80b Rotating valve body 86 First Channel 87 Second Channel 88a First flow path 88b Second flow path 88c Third Channel 88d First flow path 88e Flow path 90 Second fixed valve rotating valve body 110 Control valve 114 Casing Shell 150 Seal Plate 115a External flow path 115b Multi-channel external channel 160 first rotary valve body 190 Fixed valve Rotating valve body 180, 180a, 180b Rotating valve body 187a Channel 188a Legged channel 187b Channel

Claims

1. 1. A fluid control valve including a first valve assembly, The first valve assembly a cylindrical first ring gear that selectively rotates about its axis of rotation; an array of first rotary valve bodies; the array of first rotary valve bodies, each of the first rotary valve bodies being cylindrical in shape and configured to selectively rotate about a corresponding axis of rotation in response to rotation of the first ring gear, each of the first rotary valve bodies including at least one first passage formed therethrough; the array of second rotary valve bodies is an array of second rotary valve bodies that are offset from the array of first rotary valve bodies in an axial direction of the first ring gear, each of the second rotary valve bodies being cylindrical in shape and comprising a cylindrical second ring gear that selectively rotates about a corresponding rotation axis in response to rotation of the first ring gear; an array of second rotary valve bodies, each of the second rotary valve bodies including at least one second passageway formed therethrough; a first seal plate disposed between the first array of rotary valve bodies and the second array of rotary valve bodies with respect to the axial direction of the first ring gear; a first seal plate including a plurality of first flow passage openings formed axially therethrough, each of the first flow passage openings configured to provide fluid communication between one of the first flow passages of the array of the first rotary valve body and one of the second flow passages of the array of the second rotary valve body.

2. 2. The fluid control valve according to claim 1, wherein a first rotational position of the first ring gear coincides with a first opening of the first flow passage openings that fluidly communicates with a first channel of the first flow passage, and a second rotational position of the first ring gear coincides with a first opening of the first flow passage openings that fluidly communicates with a second channel of the first flow passage.

3. 3. The fluid control valve according to claim 2, wherein the first rotational position of the first ring gear coincides with the first opening of the first flow path openings that fluidly communicate with a first channel of the second flow path, and the second rotational position of the second ring gear coincides with the first opening of the first flow path openings that fluidly communicate with a second channel of the second flow path.

4. 2. The fluid control valve of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first flow passages extends axially through the corresponding one of the first rotary valve bodies from a first axial end surface to an opposing second axial end surface.

5. 2. The fluid control valve according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first flow passages extends in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the corresponding first rotary valve element.

6. 10. The fluid control valve of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first passages is axially aligned with and in fluid communication with at least two of the first passage openings.

7. 2. The fluid control valve of claim 1, wherein the array of the first rotary valve bodies includes three of the first rotary valve bodies, and the rotation axes of the three first rotary valve bodies are arranged in an equilateral triangle.

8. 2. The fluid control valve according to claim 1, wherein the array of second rotary valve bodies includes three of the second rotary valve bodies, and the rotation axes of the three second rotary valve bodies are arranged in an equilateral triangle.

9. 9. The fluid control valve according to claim 8, wherein the equilateral triangle formed by the rotation axes of the three first rotary valve bodies is offset by an angle of 60° from the equilateral triangle formed by the rotation axes of the three second rotary valve bodies with respect to the rotation axis of the first ring gear.

10. 2. The fluid control valve of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the first rotary valve body is axially aligned with the first portion of the second rotary valve body.

11. 11. The fluid control valve according to claim 10, wherein at least one of the first flow passage openings is axially disposed between the first portion of the first rotary valve body of the first rotary valve body and the first portion of the first rotary valve body of the second rotary valve body.

12. 12. The fluid control valve of claim 11, wherein the second portion of the first rotary valve body is axially aligned with the first portion of the second rotary valve body, and at least one of the first flow passage openings is axially disposed between the second portion of the first rotary valve body and the first portion of the second rotary valve body.

13. 2. The fluid control valve of claim 1, wherein each of the first rotary valve bodies includes a plurality of first flow passages formed on an outer surface of the rotary valve body, each of the first flow passages extending toward at least two of the first flow passages of the corresponding one of the first rotary valve bodies, and each of the first flow passages forms an inlet or outlet into the corresponding one of the first flow passages.

14. 14. The fluid control valve of claim 13, wherein each of the first flow passages in each of the first rotary valve bodies is equally spaced from the rotation axis of the corresponding one of the first rotary valve bodies, and each of the first flow passages in each of the first rotary valve bodies is angularly displaced from an adjacent one of the first flow passages by a common angular displacement relative to the rotation axis of the corresponding one of the first rotary valve bodies, and is obliquely displaced from an adjacent one of the first flow passages by a common angular displacement relative to the rotation axis of the corresponding one of the first rotary valve bodies.

15. 15. The fluid control valve of claim 14, wherein the common angular displacement is either 60 degrees or 90 degrees.

16. 2. The fluid control valve of claim 1, further comprising an actuator for selectively rotating the first ring gear.

17. 2. The fluid control valve of claim 1, further comprising a first fixed valve rotary valve body that does not rotate in response to rotation of the first ring gear, the first fixed valve rotary valve body including at least one first flow passage formed therethrough, the first seal plate including at least one second flow passage formed therethrough, each of the first flow passage openings providing fluid communication between one of the first flow passages of the first fixed valve rotary valve body and one of the first flow passages of the array of the first rotary valve body or one of the second flow passages of the array of the second rotary valve body.

18. 2. The fluid control valve of claim 1, wherein when internal teeth arranged on an inner peripheral surface of the first ring gear mesh with external teeth arranged on the corresponding one of the rotary valve bodies of the first rotary valve body, each of the first rotary valve bodies rotates about the corresponding rotation axis in response to rotation of the ring gear; and when a segment of the inner peripheral surface of the first ring gear without internal teeth passes the external teeth of the corresponding rotary valve body of the first rotary valve body, each of the first rotary valve bodies does not rotate about the corresponding rotation axis in response to rotation of the first ring gear.

19. a second valve assembly spaced apart from the first valve assembly in the axial direction of the first ring gear, The second valve assembly a cylindrical second ring gear that selectively rotates about a rotation axis; an array of third rotary valve bodies; an array of fourth rotary valve bodies disposed offset from the array of third rotary valve bodies in an axial direction of the second ring gear; a second seal plate disposed between the array of the third rotary valve body and the array of the fourth rotary valve body with respect to the axial direction of the second ring gear; Each of the third rotary valve bodies is cylindrical and selectively rotates about a corresponding rotational axis in response to rotation of the first ring gear, and each of the third rotary valve bodies includes at least one third passage formed therethrough. each of the fourth rotary valve bodies is cylindrical and selectively rotates about a corresponding rotation axis in response to rotation of the second ring gear, and each of the fourth rotary valve bodies includes at least one fourth passage formed therethrough; 2. The fluid control valve of claim 1, wherein the second seal plate includes a plurality of second flow passage openings formed axially therethrough, each of the second flow passage openings providing fluid communication between one of the third flow passages of the array of the third rotary valve body and one of the fourth flow passages of the array of the fourth rotary valve body.

20. 20. The fluid control valve of claim 19, further comprising a third seal plate axially disposed between the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly, the third seal plate including at least one third flow passage opening providing fluid communication between one of the second flow passages of the array of the second rotary valve body and one of the third flow passages of the array of the third rotary valve body.

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