Coils for electric valves, electric valves, and refrigeration cycle systems

Abstract

To provide a coil for a motor-operated valve that can facilitate assembly while securing predetermined waterproof performance, and to provide a motor-operated valve and a refrigeration cycle system.SOLUTION: A coil 2 for a motor-operated valve includes a coil case 30 for storing a winding 22 therein and is fitted to a motor-operated valve body 1, as a fitting object, via an insertion hole 33 about an axis line L. The coil 2 for a motor-operated valve includes a waterproof cap 40 fixed to the coil case 30. The coil case 30 and the waterproof cap 40 are provided with positioning parts A that engage each other to position mutual circumferential positions about the axis line L.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a coil for an electric valve, an electric valve, and a refrigeration cycle system.

Background Art

[0002] A stator coil (coil for an electric valve), which constitutes a stepping motor as a driving part together with a magnet rotor provided inside a case (can) of an electric valve, is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The stator coil described in Patent Document 1 includes a coil wound around a resin bobbin, a stator yoke (armature) assembled to the bobbin, a coil case that surrounds and houses these, and a casting resin filled inside the coil case to cover the coil and the stator yoke. The stator coil is provided with a through-hole centered on an axis in the center, and the case of the electric valve is inserted through the through-hole. A waterproof cover is attached to the stator coil, and the cover is composed of a substantially cylindrical cover body portion that covers the coil case and a cap portion formed on the upper portion of the cover body portion to close the through-hole.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the stator coil described in Patent Document 1, since the cover was integrally formed of rubber with the cover body portion and the cap portion, it was difficult to assemble the cover to the coil. Specifically, when attaching the rubber cover, it is necessary to stretch the opening of the cover and fit the coil into the opening. However, from the viewpoint of ensuring waterproofness after attaching the cover, the cover is made slightly smaller than the coil as a whole, so the work of fitting the coil into the opening is difficult, and the man-hours for that have increased.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide an electric valve coil, an electric valve, and a refrigeration cycle system that can be easily assembled while ensuring a predetermined level of waterproofing performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the aforementioned problems and achieve the objective, the electric valve coil of the present invention comprises a coil case housing a coil unit comprising a bobbin around which a winding is wound and a yoke assembled to the bobbin, and is an electric valve coil that is mounted on an object via a fitting hole centered on an axis, and comprises a waterproof cap fixed to the coil case, and the coil case and the waterproof cap are provided with positioning parts that engage with each other to position their circumferential positions around the axis of each other The coil case is provided with a through hole continuous with the insertion hole, and the waterproof cap comprises a convex cap body covering the through hole and a flange-shaped portion extending radially perpendicular to the axis from the opening edge of the cap body, the flange portion abutting against the upper wall portion of the upper end of the coil case. It is characterized by the following:

[0007] According to the present invention, the positioning parts provided on the coil case and the waterproof cap can be engaged with each other, allowing the waterproof cap to be fixed to the coil case, thus facilitating the assembly of the waterproof cap to the coil case. Furthermore, since the circumferential positions of the coil case and the waterproof cap around their respective axes are determined by the engagement of the positioning parts, circumferential and radial misalignment of the waterproof cap relative to the coil case can be suppressed, and the waterproof function of the waterproof cap can be maintained. Therefore, it is possible to provide an electric valve coil that can be easily assembled while ensuring a predetermined waterproof performance.

[0008] Furthermore, in this case, the coil case has a circumferential wall portion that extends in the circumferential direction and houses the winding, and an annular portion that is continuous with the upper end of the circumferential wall portion. The aforementioned It comprises an upper wall portion, and the upper wall portion has a front KikanPreferably, a through hole is provided, and the positioning portion comprises at least one recess provided on either the periphery of the through hole or the cap body, and at least one protrusion provided on the other of the periphery of the through hole or the cap body, with the waterproof cap being fixed to the upper wall portion in a state where the protrusion and the recess are fitted together. With such a configuration, the waterproof cap can be easily assembled to the upper wall portion of the coil case by fitting the recess and the protrusion together. Furthermore, since the circumferential position of the coil case and the waterproof cap around their respective axes is determined by the fitting of the recess and the protrusion, circumferential and radial positional displacement of the waterproof cap relative to the coil case can be suppressed.

[0009] Furthermore, it is preferable that the waterproof cap is fixed to the upper wall by the fitting of the protrusion and the recess alone, or by adhesive or welding in addition to the fitting of the protrusion and the recess. With such a configuration, by fixing the waterproof cap to the upper wall solely by the fitting of the protrusion and the recess, as described above, it is possible to improve assembly while suppressing displacement of the waterproof cap. In addition, by fixing the waterproof cap to the upper wall by adhesive or welding in addition to the fitting of the protrusion and the recess, the waterproof cap can be fixed to the coil case more firmly. In this case, adhesive or welding is performed with the protrusion and the recess fitted together. With this, compared to adhesive or welding of surfaces without protrusions and recesses, the surface area of ​​the bonded portion increases due to the presence of protrusions and recesses, so the waterproof cap can be fixed to the coil case more firmly.

[0010] Also, before Preferably, the protrusions are provided in multiple locations at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, protruding from the bottom surface of the flange portion or the upper surface of the upper wall portion. With this configuration, by providing multiple protrusions at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, the circumferential and radial displacement of the waterproof cap relative to the coil case can be suppressed at multiple locations. This further suppresses the circumferential and radial positional displacement of the waterproof cap relative to the coil case.

[0011] Furthermore, it is preferable that the recesses are provided in multiple locations at equal intervals in the circumferential direction on the bottom surface of the upper wall or the flange. With this configuration, by providing multiple recesses at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, the circumferential and radial displacement of the waterproof cap relative to the coil case can be suppressed at multiple locations. This further suppresses the circumferential and radial positional displacement of the waterproof cap relative to the coil case.

[0012] Furthermore, it is preferable that the upper wall portion has an upper surface portion that abuts against the bottom surface of the flange portion, and that at least one of the bottom surface of the flange portion and the upper surface portion is provided with a ventilation passage that extends in the radial direction and communicates the inside and outside of the waterproof cap. With such a configuration, for example, moisture inside the coil case caused by condensation can be easily evaporated through the ventilation passage.

[0013] Furthermore, the ventilation passage may consist of one or more grooves or holes. With such a configuration, the ventilation passage can be made up of one or more grooves or holes, thus increasing the range of choices for the number and shape of the ventilation passage to address the target issues such as how easily water can reach it, how easily water can accumulate, and how easily internal moisture can evaporate.

[0014] Furthermore, it is preferable that the radius L1 from the center of the axis at the location where the ventilation passage is provided to the outer peripheral end of the flange portion is larger than the radius L2 from the center of the axis at the location where the ventilation passage is provided to the outer peripheral end of the upper surface portion. With this configuration, when the coil case with the waterproof cap fixed is viewed from the axial direction, the outer peripheral end of the flange portion protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral end of the upper surface portion. As a result, the upper surface portion of the coil case is not exposed when viewed from above near the ventilation passage, so liquids such as water will not accumulate on the upper surface due to the falling of water droplets such as condensation water attached to pipes etc. arranged on the upper part of the waterproof cap. For example, if a ventilation passage is formed on the bottom surface of the flange portion, it is possible to prevent liquid from entering the ventilation passage via the upper surface portion. Also, for example, if a ventilation passage is formed on the upper surface, it is possible to prevent the ventilation passage from being exposed on the upper surface portion, and it is possible to prevent liquid from entering the ventilation passage via the upper surface portion. Therefore, regardless of whether the ventilation passage is formed on the bottom surface of the flange or the top surface of the coil case, the upper part of the flange can function like an umbrella covering the ventilation passage, preventing liquid from entering the ventilation passage from the outside. As a result, even if liquid such as water flows downward from the top of the waterproof cap, it is possible to prevent the liquid from entering the coil case through the ventilation passage.

[0015] Furthermore, the waterproof cap is preferably made of resin or rubber. With this configuration, the waterproof performance of the waterproof cap can be improved by making the waterproof cap out of resin or rubber.

[0016] Furthermore, the electric valve of the present invention is characterized by comprising an electric valve coil as described in any of the above and an electric valve body to be mounted. With such a configuration, an electric valve can be obtained using an electric valve coil that can be easily assembled while ensuring a predetermined waterproof performance as described above.

[0017] In addition, the refrigeration cycle system of the present invention is a refrigeration cycle system including a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator, wherein the electric valve described in any of the above is The aforementioned used as an expansion valve. According to such a configuration, a refrigeration cycle system can be obtained by using a coil for an electric valve that can facilitate assembly while ensuring the predetermined waterproof performance as described above.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a coil for an electric valve, an electric valve, and a refrigeration cycle system that can facilitate assembly while ensuring a predetermined waterproof performance.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] Cross-sectional view of an electric valve according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of the coil for an electric valve of FIG. 1 constituting the electric valve. [Figure 3] Plan view of a coil case with a waterproof cap removed. [Figure 4] (A) is a bottom view of the waterproof cap, and (B) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line a-a in FIG. 4(A). [Figure 5] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing an example of the waterproof cap and the coil case of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing an example different from the form shown in FIG. 5 of the waterproof cap and the coil case of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Cross-sectional view of an electric valve according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] Enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of the coil for an electric valve of FIG. 7 constituting the electric valve of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] (A) is a bottom view of the waterproof cap of the second embodiment, and (B) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line b-b in FIG. 9(A). [Figure 10] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing an example of the waterproof cap of the second embodiment. [Figure 11] A diagram showing the combination of the coil case and the waterproof cap shown in Figure 10. [Figure 12] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing an example of a waterproof cap of the second embodiment that differs from the form shown in Figure 10. [Figure 13] Combination diagram of the coil case and the waterproof cap shown in Figure 12(B) [Figure 14] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing an example of the waterproof cap of the second embodiment that differs from the form shown in Figures 10 and 12. [Figure 15] A diagram showing the combination of the coil unit and the waterproof cap shown in Figure 14(B). [Figure 16] (A) is a bottom view of the waterproof cap of the first modified example, (B) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line dd in Figure 16(A), and (C) is a top view of the coil case of the first modified example. [Figure 17] Figures 16(A) and (B) show the waterproof caps, and Figure 16(C) shows the coil case. [Figure 18] (A) is a bottom view of the waterproof cap of the second modified example, (B) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line ee in Figure 18(A), and (C) is a top view of the coil case of the second modified example. [Figure 19] Figures 18(A) and (B) show the waterproof caps, and Figure 18(C) shows the coil case. [Figure 20] A diagram showing an example of a refrigeration cycle system according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] The first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 6. In the following description, the concept of "up and down" corresponds to up and down in Figure 1. In addition, the axial direction of the axis L of case 13, which will be described later, will be referred to as the axis L direction, and the circumferential direction around axis L will simply be referred to as the "circumferential direction." Furthermore, one of the radial directions of the virtual circle around axis L will be referred to as the X direction, and the direction perpendicular to the X direction will be referred to as the Y direction. This is merely for the convenience of explanation and does not necessarily coincide with the actual directions during the manufacturing and use of the present invention, nor does it limit the directions. The electric valve 100 according to the present invention comprises an electric valve body 1 and an electric valve coil 2.

[0021] The electric valve body 1 is a valve device to which the electric valve coil 2 is mounted. The electric valve body 1 comprises a cylindrical housing 10 made of a metal material such as stainless steel, and the valve chamber inside the housing 10 houses valve members (not shown) and valve ports whose opening degree is changed by the valve members. A first coupling pipe 11 is connected to the side wall of the housing 10 and communicates with the valve chamber, and a second coupling pipe 12 is connected to the bottom wall of the housing 10 and communicates with the valve chamber. A bottomed cylindrical case 13 is airtightly assembled to the upper open edge of the housing 10 by welding or the like. Inside the case 13 are a magnet rotor (not shown) that constitutes a stepping motor M as a drive unit, and a mechanism that transmits the rotational force of the magnet rotor to the valve members described above and converts it into displacement in the axial direction L. As a result, by driving the stepping motor, the valve members change the opening degree of the valve port, and the flow rate of the fluid flowing between the first coupling pipe 11 and the second coupling pipe 12 through the valve chamber is controlled.

[0022] The motorized valve coil 2, together with the magnet rotor described above, constitutes the stepping motor M and constitutes the motorized valve coil in the present invention. The motorized valve coil 2 comprises a coil unit 20, a coil case 30 housing the coil unit 20, and a waterproof cap 40. The coil unit 20 comprises a bobbin 21 formed in a substantially cylindrical shape using a resin material, a winding 22 wound around the bobbin 21, and a yoke 23 integrally assembled to the bobbin 21 by molding or the like. A pair of winding stacking sections 24, recessed radially inward, are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the bobbin 21, arranged vertically. The winding 22 is wound around each of the pair of winding stacking sections 24. The yoke 23 has magnetic pole teeth 25 along the inner circumferential surface of the bobbin 21, and the magnetic pole teeth 25 constitute a part of the inner circumferential surface of the insertion hole 33, which will be described later.

[0023] The coil case 30 houses the coil unit 20 inside and constitutes the outer shell of the electric valve coil 2. It is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape using, for example, a resin material. The coil case 30 includes a circumferential wall portion 31 that extends in the circumferential direction and houses the coil unit 20, an annular upper wall portion 32 that is continuous with the upper end of the circumferential wall portion 31, and a fitting hole 33 that penetrates vertically with respect to the axis L. The inner diameter of the circumferential wall portion 31 is formed to be larger than the outer diameter of the coil unit 20, and its dimension in the direction of the axis L is formed to be larger than the dimension of the coil unit 20 in the direction of the axis L. A gap is formed between the inner circumferential surface of the circumferential wall portion 31 and the outer circumferential surface of the coil unit 20 before the electric valve coil 2 is manufactured, and mold resin R is injected into this gap.

[0024] The central part of the upper wall portion 32 forms a base 34 that protrudes upward. As shown in Figure 3, the base 34 has a rounded rhombus shape in plan view, and its upper surface is an upper surface portion 35 that abuts against the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 of the waterproof cap 40, which will be described later. At the center of the upper surface portion 35, i.e., at the center of the upper wall portion 32, a through hole 36 is formed that is coaxial with the axis L and communicates with the insertion hole 33. In fact, in the drawing, the hole at the top of the coil case 30 is referred to as the through hole 36, and the hole in the inner circumference of the bobbin 21 is referred to as the insertion hole 33, but the through hole 36 and the insertion hole 33 are formed with the same central axis L and the same inner diameter. Therefore, the through hole 36 and the insertion hole 33 are not a single hole, but are continuous holes in the direction of the axis L. Two recesses 37 that are recessed downward are formed on the periphery of the through hole 36, facing each other in the Y direction. In other words, the recesses 37 are provided in multiple locations on the upper surface portion 35 (upper wall portion 32) at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The recesses 37 may be, for example, notches that penetrate the upper surface portion 35 formed by cutting out the upper end of the through hole 36, as shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3, or they may be notches that do not penetrate. Although not shown, the upper end of the through hole 36 may not be cut out, and the hole may penetrate the upper surface portion 35 (such as a rectangular hole similar in shape to the protrusion 44 of the waterproof cap 40 described later, so that the protrusion 44 can be fitted into it).

[0025] By forming the recess 37 with multiple notches and holes, it is possible to minimize the impact on the internal structure of the coil case 30, as described below. In other words, when attaching a waterproof cap (corresponding to the waterproof cap 40 in this embodiment) to a coil case (corresponding to the coil case 30 in this embodiment), it is assumed that the diameter of the through hole (corresponding to the through hole 36 in this embodiment) at the top of the coil case is made larger than the insertion hole (corresponding to the insertion hole 33 in this embodiment) to create a stepped hole, and that a circumferentially arranged protrusion provided on the waterproof cap side is fitted into this enlarged through hole. However, in this case, the entire circumference of the yoke portion (corresponding to the yoke 23 in this embodiment) and the bobbin portion (corresponding to the bobbin 21 in this embodiment) that constitute the upper surface of the coil unit (corresponding to the coil unit 20 in this embodiment) is exposed by the enlarged through hole, making it easier for liquids such as condensation water (moisture, etc.) to enter through the gap between the yoke portion and the bobbin portion, which may lead to insulation deterioration. In contrast, the formation of several recesses 37 prevents the yoke portion and bobbin portion from being exposed around the entire circumference, reducing the exposed area of ​​these parts. This makes it more difficult for liquids (such as moisture) like condensation to penetrate through the gap between the yoke portion and the bobbin portion, thus reducing the risk of insulation deterioration. For this reason, it is preferable to form the recesses 37 with multiple notches or holes. The recesses 37 formed in this way engage with the protrusions 44 of the waterproof cap 40, which will be described later, to form a positioning portion A that positions the circumferential positions of the coil case 30 and the waterproof cap 40 around their respective axes L. The insertion hole 33 is the portion through which the case 13 of the electric valve body 1, which is the object to be mounted, is inserted, and it extends in the direction of the axis L. The upper end opening of the insertion hole 33 communicates with the lower end opening of the through hole 36 described above, and the lower end opening opens downward.

[0026] The waterproof cap 40 is a lid member fixed to the coil case 30 and is made of resin or rubber. The waterproof cap 40 has a bottomed cylindrical cap body 41. The cap body 41 is formed so that its bottom wall (the upper wall portion when attached to the coil case 30 as shown in Figure 1) is inclined to become convex towards the bottom as it approaches the center. As shown in Figure 4, a flange portion 42 extending radially is formed on the opening edge of the cap body 41. Two convex portions 44 projecting downward are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 along the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 42, and are facing each other in the Y direction. That is, multiple convex portions 44 are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, protruding from the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42. The convex portions 44 are formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the axial direction L. The convex portions 44, together with the recess 37 described above, constitute the positioning portion A. The waterproof cap 40 configured in this way is fixed to the upper wall portion 32 of the coil case 30.

[0027] When attaching the waterproof cap 40 to the coil case 30, as shown in Figure 2, the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 is aligned with the top surface 35 of the coil case 30 in the direction of axis L, and the convex portion 44 and the concave portion 37 are aligned with each other in the direction of axis L, and the waterproof cap 40 and the coil case 30 are brought closer together. As a result, the convex portion 44 fits into the concave portion 37 and the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 comes into contact with the top surface 35. This fixes the waterproof cap 40 to the coil case 30. At this time, the engagement of the positioning portions A (convex portion 44 and concave portion 37) determines the circumferential position of the coil case 30 and the waterproof cap 40 around their respective axes L. Note that the waterproof cap 40 may be fixed to the top wall portion 32 only by the fitting of the convex portion 44 and the concave portion 37, or it may be fixed to the top wall portion 32 by adhesive or welding in addition to the fitting of the convex portion 44 and the concave portion 37.

[0028] The motorized valve coil 2 configured in this way is then attached to the motorized valve body 1. At this time, the case 13 of the motorized valve body 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 33 from the bottom to the top, and is inserted through the insertion hole 33. In this state, the motorized valve body 1 and the motorized valve coil 2 can be fixed using known methods. For example, a member such as a bracket may be interposed between the motorized valve body 1 and the motorized valve coil 2 to fix them together, or a projection or the like that which engages with a dimple 14 (shown in Figure 1) formed in the case 13 may be provided on the coil case 30, and the motorized valve body 1 and the motorized valve coil 2 may be fixed together by these engagements.

[0029] In this embodiment, two recesses 37 are formed on the upper wall portion 32 of the coil case 30, and two protrusions 44 are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 of the waterproof cap 40 to constitute the positioning portion A. However, the configuration of the positioning portion A is not limited to these. Figures 5(A) and 5(B) show an example of the waterproof cap 40 and coil case 30 of the first embodiment. Figures 6(A) and 6(B) show an example of the waterproof cap 40 and coil case 30 of the first embodiment that differs from the configuration shown in Figure 5. In the configuration shown in Figure 5, two downwardly recessed recesses 37a are formed on the periphery of the through hole 36 in the upper wall portion 32, facing each other in the Y direction, and two downwardly recessed recesses 37a are formed facing each other in the X direction (i.e., a total of four recesses are formed). Furthermore, a downwardly protruding protrusion 44a is formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 of the waterproof cap 40. Four protrusions 44a are formed along the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 42, two facing each other in the Y direction and two facing each other in the X direction. The protrusions 44a are formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the axis L direction. The recess 37a and the protrusions 44a constitute a positioning portion A with respect to each other.

[0030] In the configuration shown in Figure 6, a total of 12 downwardly recessed recesses 37b are formed around the periphery of the through-hole 36 in the upper wall portion 32, extending circumferentially along the periphery of the through-hole 36. Furthermore, a downwardly projecting convex portion 44b is formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 of the waterproof cap 40. Twelve convex portions 44b are formed circumferentially along the inner periphery of the flange portion 42. In the aforementioned first embodiment and the example configuration shown in Figure 5, the shapes of the convex portions 44 and 44a were rectangular when viewed from the axial direction L. However, in the example configuration shown in Figure 6, the shape of the convex portion 44b is a curved rectangle that follows the outer circumference of the flange portion 42 when viewed from the axial direction L. The recesses 37b and convex portions 44b constitute a positioning portion A. Note that the arrangement of the recesses 37, 37a, 37b and the convex portions 44, 44a, 44b may be reversed. In other words, protrusions 44, 44a, and 44b may be formed on the upper wall portion 32 of the coil case 30, and recesses 37, 37a, and 37b may be formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 of the waterproof cap 40. Thus, the positioning portion A comprises at least one recess 37 provided on either the periphery of the through hole 36 or the flange portion 42 (cap body 41), and at least one protrusion 44 provided on the other of the periphery of the through hole 36 or the flange portion 42.

[0031] Next, the refrigeration cycle system of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 20. Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of the refrigeration cycle system of the present invention. In Figure 20, reference numeral 100 denotes an expansion valve using the electric valve 100, 200 denotes an outdoor heat exchanger mounted on the outdoor unit, 300 denotes an indoor heat exchanger mounted on the indoor unit, 400 denotes a flow path switching valve that constitutes a four-way valve, and 500 denotes a compressor. The electric valve 100 (expansion valve), outdoor heat exchanger 200, indoor heat exchanger 300, flow path switching valve 400, and compressor 500 are connected by conduits as shown in the figure, and constitute a heat pump type refrigeration cycle. Accumulators, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, etc. are omitted from the illustration.

[0032] The flow path of the refrigeration cycle can be switched between two paths by the flow path switching valve 400: one for cooling operation and one for heating operation. During cooling operation, as shown by the solid arrows in Figure 20, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 500 flows from the flow path switching valve 400 into the outdoor heat exchanger 200, which functions as a condenser. The liquid refrigerant flowing out of the outdoor heat exchanger 200 flows through the electric valve 100, which acts as an expansion valve, into the indoor heat exchanger 300, which functions as an evaporator. On the other hand, during heating operation, as shown by the dashed arrows in Figure 20, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor 500 circulates in the following order: from the flow path switching valve 400 to the indoor heat exchanger 300, through the electric valve 100 (acting as an expansion valve), to the outdoor heat exchanger 200, and then back to the compressor 500. The indoor heat exchanger 300 functions as a condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger 200 functions as an evaporator.

[0033] According to the present invention, the positioning parts A provided on the coil case 30 and the waterproof cap 40 are engaged with each other, allowing the waterproof cap 40 to be fixed to the coil case 30, thus facilitating the assembly of the waterproof cap 40 to the coil case 30. Furthermore, since the circumferential positions of the coil case 30 and the waterproof cap 40 around their respective axes L are determined by the engagement of the positioning parts A, circumferential and radial positional misalignment of the waterproof cap 40 relative to the coil case 30 can be suppressed, and the waterproof function of the waterproof cap 40 can be maintained. Therefore, it is possible to provide an electric valve coil 2 that can be easily assembled while ensuring a predetermined waterproof performance.

[0034] Furthermore, with this configuration, the waterproof cap 40 can be easily assembled to the upper wall portion 32 of the coil case 30 by fitting the recess 37 and the protrusion 44 together. In addition, since the circumferential position of the coil case 30 and the waterproof cap 40 around their respective axes L is determined by the fitting of the recess 37 and the protrusion 44, circumferential and radial positional displacement of the waterproof cap 40 relative to the coil case 30 can be suppressed.

[0035] Furthermore, with the above configuration, the waterproof cap 40 can be fixed to the upper wall portion 32 by bonding or welding in addition to the fitting of the protrusion 44 and recess 37, thereby fixing the waterproof cap 40 to the coil case 30 more firmly. In this case, the bonding or welding is performed with the protrusion 44 and recess 37 fitted together. As a result, compared to bonding or welding surfaces without protrusions 44 and recess 37, the presence of these irregularities increases the area of ​​the bonded portion, thus fixing the waterproof cap 40 to the coil case 30 more firmly.

[0036] Furthermore, since the convex portions 44 and concave portions 37 can be provided in multiple locations at equal intervals in the circumferential direction along the periphery of the through hole 36, the circumferential and radial displacement of the waterproof cap 40 relative to the coil case 30 can be suppressed at multiple locations. This further suppresses the circumferential and radial positional misalignment of the waterproof cap 40 relative to the coil case 30.

[0037] Furthermore, the waterproof performance of the waterproof cap 40 can be improved by making it out of resin or rubber.

[0038] Then, using the electric valve coil 2 which allows for easy assembly while ensuring a predetermined waterproof performance, an electric valve 100 can be obtained, and this electric valve 100 can be used as an expansion valve to constitute a refrigeration cycle system.

[0039] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 15. As shown in Figure 7, the electric valve 101 includes an electric valve body 1 and an electric valve coil 2, similar to the first embodiment. In this second embodiment, the structure of the waterproof cap 40' and the coil case 30' differs from that of the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, a ventilation hole 45 (ventilation passage) is formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 of the waterproof cap 40', which is formed as a recessed groove that is recessed upward and becomes a hole that extends radially after the waterproof cap 40' is assembled. Note that the ventilation hole 45 becomes a hole after the waterproof cap 40' is assembled, while it is a recessed groove before the waterproof cap 40' is assembled. However, in the following description, even if the waterproof cap 40' is used alone, it will not be described as a recess, but as a ventilation hole 45. As shown in Figure 9, a total of two ventilation holes 45 are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 and are facing each other in the X direction. The ventilation holes 45 are formed extending from the radial inner edge to the radial outer edge of the flange portion 42, connecting the inside and outside of the waterproof cap 40'. The formation of the ventilation holes 45 makes it easier for moisture inside the coil case 30', for example, caused by condensation, to evaporate through the ventilation holes 45. In the second embodiment, the radial size of the flange portion 42 and the upper surface portion 35' of the coil case 30' differs from that of the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, in the assembled state of the waterproof cap 40', the radius dimension L1 from the center of the axis L at the location where the ventilation holes 45 are provided to the outer peripheral edge 42a of the flange portion 42 is set to be larger than the radius dimension L2 from the center of the axis L at the location where the ventilation holes 45 are provided to the outer peripheral edge 35'a of the upper surface portion 35'.

[0040] In Figure 9, two ventilation holes 45 are formed in the shape of grooves, but the shape and number of ventilation holes 45 are not limited to this and may be changed as appropriate. For example, the ventilation holes 45 may be formed as holes that penetrate radially through the flange portion 42, which is formed with a thicker wall in the axial direction L, or the ventilation holes 45 may be formed as holes that penetrate radially through the side surface of the waterproof cap 40' other than the flange portion 42. Also, there may be one ventilation hole 45, or there may be three or more ventilation holes 45. In other words, the ventilation holes 45 consist of one or more grooves or holes. Figures 10(A) and (B) show an example of the waterproof cap 40' of the second embodiment. Figure 10(A) shows a bottom view of the waterproof cap 40', and Figure 10(B) shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line cc in Figure 10(A). In this waterproof cap 40', as seen in the bottom view in Figure 10(A), three ventilation holes 45a are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction along the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 42 on one side in the X direction, flanking the two protrusions 44. Additionally, three ventilation holes 45a are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction along the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 42 on the other side in the X direction. In other words, the waterproof cap 40' has two protrusions 44 and six ventilation holes 45a.

[0041] Figure 11 is a diagram showing the combination of the coil case 30' and the waterproof cap 40' shown in Figure 10. In this diagram, the waterproof cap 40' is fixed to the coil case 30', and each component is shown from above in the direction of axis L. Here, as explained in Figure 8, in the assembled state of the waterproof cap 40', the radius dimension L1 from the center of axis L at the location where the ventilation hole 45a is provided to the outer peripheral end 42a of the flange portion 42 is set to be larger than the radius dimension L2 from the center of axis L at the location where the ventilation hole 45a is provided to the outer peripheral end 35'a of the upper surface portion 35'. In the second embodiment, the ventilation hole 45a is formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 of the waterproof cap 40', but it is not limited to this, and the ventilation hole 45a may be formed on the upper surface portion 35' of the coil case 30'. In this case, for example, a recess or the like can be formed on the upper surface portion 35' that opens upward and extends radially outward from the opening edge of the through hole 36, and this recess or the like can be made into a ventilation hole 45a after the waterproof cap 40' is attached.

[0042] Furthermore, regardless of whether the ventilation holes 45a are provided on the bottom surface 43 or the top surface 35' of the flange portion 42, the radius dimension L1 > radius dimension L2 is set as described above. Therefore, the ventilation holes 45 of the waterproof cap 40' are positioned such that the ventilation holes 45 are not located in the portion of the outer peripheral edge 35'a of the rounded rhombus-shaped top surface 35' that protrudes from the outer peripheral edge of the waterproof cap 40' (for example, the portion corresponding to one end or the other end in the longitudinal direction of the rounded rhombus-shaped top surface 35'). As a result, when the coil case 30' with the waterproof cap 40' fixed is viewed from the direction of axis L, the outer peripheral edge 42a of the flange portion 42 protrudes radially outward more than the outer peripheral edge 35'a of the top surface 35'. Therefore, since the upper surface 35' of the coil case 30' is not exposed when viewed from above near the ventilation hole 45a, water or other liquids will not accumulate on the upper surface 35' due to the falling of water droplets such as condensation water attached to piping etc. located on the upper part of the coil case 30, and it is possible to prevent liquid from entering the ventilation hole 45a through the upper surface 35'. Furthermore, this is also true, for example, even if the ventilation hole 45a is formed in the upper surface 35', in which case it is possible to prevent the ventilation hole 45a from being exposed to the upper surface 35', and it is possible to prevent liquid from entering the ventilation hole 45a through the upper surface 35'.

[0043] Therefore, regardless of whether the ventilation hole 45a is formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 or the top surface 35' of the coil case 30', the upper part of the flange portion 42 functions like an umbrella covering the ventilation hole 45a, preventing liquid from entering the ventilation hole 45a from the outside. Furthermore, with this configuration, for example, even if the orientation of the coil case 30' changes, the outer peripheral end 42a of the flange portion 42 protrudes radially outward more than the outer peripheral end 35'a of the top surface 35', so even if the coil case 30' is slightly tilted with respect to the horizontal, the upper part of the flange portion 42 functions like the umbrella described above, which is preferable.

[0044] Figures 12(A) and (B) show an example of the waterproof cap 40' of the second embodiment that differs from the form shown in Figure 10. In the waterproof cap 40' shown in Figure 12(A), a protruding projection 44a is formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42. A total of four protrusions 44a are formed along the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 42: two facing each other in the Y direction and two facing each other in the X direction. The protrusions 44a are formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the axis L direction. In addition, a total of two ventilation holes 45b are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42, facing each other in the intersecting directions of the X and Y directions. In the waterproof cap 40' shown in Figure 12(B), a protruding projection 44a is formed on the inner peripheral edge of the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42. Four protrusions 44a are formed along the inner periphery of the flange portion 42, two facing each other in the Y direction and two facing each other in the X direction. The protrusions 44a are formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the axis L direction. Four ventilation holes 45c are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42, facing each other in the intersecting directions of the X and Y directions.

[0045] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the combination of the coil case 30' and the waterproof cap 40' shown in Figure 12(B). Similar to the combination diagram shown in Figure 11, this diagram also shows the components being viewed from above in the direction of axis L with the waterproof cap 40' fixed to the coil case 30'. In the waterproof cap 40' and coil case 30' shown in Figure 13, in the assembled state of the waterproof cap 40', the radius dimension L1 from the center of axis L to the outer peripheral end 42a of the flange portion 42 is set to be larger than the radius dimension L2 from the center of axis L to the outer peripheral end 35'a of the upper surface portion 35 at all locations where the ventilation holes 45c are provided.

[0046] Figures 14(A) and (B) show an example of the waterproof cap 40' of the second embodiment that differs from the forms shown in Figures 10 and 12. In the waterproof cap 40' shown in Figure 14(A), a total of 12 downward-projecting protrusions 44b are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42, along the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 42 in the circumferential direction. In addition, a total of 2 ventilation holes 45b are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42, facing each other in the intersecting directions of the X and Y directions. In the waterproof cap 40' shown in Figure 14(B), a total of 12 downward-projecting protrusions 44b are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42, along the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 42 in the circumferential direction. In addition, a total of 4 ventilation holes 45c are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42, facing each other in the intersecting directions of the X and Y directions. The protrusions 44b shown in Figures 14(A) and (B) are formed in the same shape as the example protrusion 44b shown in Figure 6 described above. That is, the shape of the protrusion 44b is a curved rectangle that follows the outer circumference of the flange portion 42 when viewed from the direction of axis L.

[0047] Figure 15 is a diagram showing the combination of the coil case 30' and the waterproof cap 40' shown in Figure 14(B). Similar to the diagram described above, this diagram also shows the components being viewed from above in the direction of axis L with the waterproof cap 40' fixed to the coil case 30'. In the waterproof cap 40' and coil case 30' shown in Figure 15, in the assembled state of the waterproof cap 40', the radius dimension L1 from the center of axis L to the outer peripheral end 42a of the flange portion 42 is set to be larger than the radius dimension L2 from the center of axis L to the outer peripheral end 35'a of the upper surface portion 35' at all locations where the ventilation holes 45c are provided.

[0048] With this configuration, the same functions and effects as in the first embodiment can be achieved. Furthermore, with this configuration, for example, moisture inside the coil case caused by condensation can be easily evaporated through the ventilation holes 45 (ventilation passages).

[0049] Furthermore, since the ventilation holes 45 can be composed of one or more grooves or holes, the range of choices for the number and shape of the ventilation holes 45 can be increased to address the target issues such as how easily water can reach the holes, how easily water can accumulate, and how easily internal moisture can evaporate.

[0050] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, in the assembled state of the waterproof cap 40', the radius dimension L1 from the center of the axis L at the location where the ventilation hole 45 is provided to the outer peripheral end 42a of the flange portion 42 was set to be larger than the radius dimension L2 from the center of the axis L at the location where the ventilation hole 45 is provided to the outer peripheral end 35'a of the upper surface portion 35'. Therefore, when the coil case 30' with the waterproof cap 40' fixed is viewed from the direction of the axis L, the outer peripheral end 42a of the flange portion 42 protrudes radially outward more than the outer peripheral end 35'a of the upper surface portion 35'. Therefore, since the upper surface 35' of the coil case 30' is not exposed when viewed from above near the ventilation hole 45a, water or other liquids will not accumulate on the upper surface 35' due to the falling of water droplets such as condensation water attached to piping etc. located on the upper part of the coil case 30. For example, if the ventilation hole 45a is formed in the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42, it is possible to prevent liquid from entering the ventilation hole 45a through the upper surface 35'. Also, for example, if the ventilation hole 45a is formed in the upper surface 35', it is possible to prevent the ventilation hole 45a from being exposed to the upper surface 35', and thus prevent liquid from entering the ventilation hole 45a through the upper surface 35'.

[0051] Therefore, regardless of whether the ventilation holes 45a are formed on the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42 or the top surface 35' of the coil case 30', the upper portion of the flange portion 42 can function like an umbrella covering the ventilation holes 45a, thereby preventing liquid from entering the ventilation holes 45a from the outside. As a result, even if a liquid such as water flows downward from the top of the waterproof cap 40', it is possible to prevent the liquid from entering the coil case 30' through the ventilation holes 45.

[0052] Although embodiments of the electric valve 100 have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and any design changes, etc., that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included in the present invention.

[0053] Figure 16(A) is a bottom view of the waterproof cap 40' of the first modified example, Figure 16(B) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line dd in Figure 16(A), and Figure 16(C) is a plan view of the coil case 60 of the first modified example. Since the waterproof cap 40' has the same configuration as the waterproof cap 40' of the second embodiment described above, the same reference numerals are used for each component, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified. In the coil case 60, the central part of the upper wall portion 32 forms a base 61 that protrudes upward. As shown in Figure 16(C), the base 61 has a circular shape in plan view, and its upper surface forms an upper surface portion 62 that abuts against the bottom surface 43 of the flange portion 42. At the center of the upper surface portion 62, i.e., at the center of the upper wall portion 32, a through hole 63 is formed that is coaxial with the axis L and communicates with the insertion hole 33. On the periphery of the through hole 63, a total of two recesses 37 that are recessed downward are formed, facing each other in the Y direction. Figure 17 is a combination diagram of the waterproof cap 40' shown in Figures 16(A) and (B) and the coil case 60 shown in Figure 16(C). In this combination diagram, only the waterproof cap 40' portion is shown as a cross-sectional view cut along the axis L. In the waterproof cap 40' and coil case 60 shown in Figure 17, in the assembled state of the waterproof cap 40', the radius dimension L1 from the center of the axis L to the outer peripheral edge 42a of the flange portion 42 is set to be larger than the radius dimension L2 from the center of the axis L to the outer peripheral edge 62a of the upper surface portion 62 at all locations where the ventilation holes 45 are provided.

[0054] Figure 18(A) is a bottom view of the waterproof cap 70 of the second modified example, Figure 18(B) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line ee in Figure 18(A), and Figure 18(C) is a plan view of the coil case 80 of the second modified example. The waterproof cap 70 is equipped with a flange-shaped large-diameter flange portion 71 that has a larger diameter than the waterproof cap 40 of the above-described embodiment and modified example. Two protrusions 44 projecting downward are formed on the bottom surface 72 of the large-diameter flange portion 71 along the inner peripheral edge of the large-diameter flange portion 71, and are facing each other in the Y direction. In addition, two ventilation holes 73 (ventilation passages) are formed on the bottom surface 72 of the large-diameter flange portion 71 in a groove-like shape that recesses upward and extends radially, and are facing each other in the X direction. In the coil case 80, the central part of the upper wall portion 32 constitutes a base 81 that projects upward. The base 81 has a circular shape when viewed from above and occupies most of the upper wall portion 32 so that it can come into contact with the entire large-diameter flange portion 71.

[0055] The upper surface of the base 81 constitutes an upper surface portion 82 that abuts against the bottom surface 72 of the large-diameter flange portion 71. At the center of the upper surface portion 82, i.e., at the center of the upper wall portion 32, a through hole 83 is formed that is coaxial with the axis L and communicates with the insertion hole 33. Two recesses 37 that are recessed downwards are formed on the periphery of the through hole 83, facing each other in the Y direction. Figure 19 is a combination diagram of the waterproof cap 70 shown in Figures 18(A) and (B) and the coil case 80 shown in Figure 18(C). In this combination diagram, only the waterproof cap 70 portion is shown as a cross-sectional view cut along the axis L. In the waterproof cap 70 and coil case 80 shown in Figure 19, in the assembled state of the waterproof cap 70, the radius dimension L1 from the center of the axis L to the outer peripheral end 71a of the large-diameter flange portion 71 is set to be larger than the radius dimension L2 from the center of the axis L to the outer peripheral end 82a of the upper surface portion 82 at all locations where the ventilation holes 73 are provided.

[0056] Furthermore, the descriptions of the various embodiments and modifications above are not limited to the outer circumference of the portion of the flange 42 of the waterproof cap 40' with the ventilation holes 45 may be inclined downward. In this case, it becomes even more difficult for liquid to enter the waterproof cap 40' than when there is no inclination. In this case, the outer circumference of the portion of the flange 42 with the ventilation holes 45 may be formed flat up to a position slightly radially outward from the outer circumference end 35'a of the upper surface portion 35' of the coil case 30', and may be inclined downward radially outward from this flat portion. This configuration also has a similar effect, making it even more difficult for liquid to enter the waterproof cap 40' compared to the configuration without the inclination.

[0057] Furthermore, the groove-shaped recess provided at the lower end of the flange portion 42 (the portion that becomes the ventilation hole 45 after the waterproof cap 40' is assembled) may be inclined downward from the axis L toward the outer circumference (in this case, the lower surface of the recess is horizontal, and the upper surface of the recess is inclined downward toward the outer circumference). This configuration also makes it even more difficult for liquid to penetrate into the waterproof cap 40' compared to a configuration without such inclination. In addition, the upper part of the waterproof cap 40' may be formed in a flat shape, or it may be formed in a hemispherical shape (dome shape) with space inside. Furthermore, the shape of the recesses 37, 37a, 37b and the protrusions 44, 44a, 44b that fit into the recesses 37, 37a, 37b, which serve as positioning parts A for positioning the waterproof caps 40, 40', is not limited to a rectangular shape or a curved rectangle when viewed from the direction of the axis L, as described in the above embodiments and modifications. The recesses 37, 37a, 37b and the protrusions 44, 44a, 44b may be fitted together and have the function of suppressing misalignment in the circumferential and radial directions. In addition, the shape of the recesses 37, 37a, 37b and the protrusions 44, 44a, 44b may be formed in a square shape, a round shape, an elliptical shape, etc., when viewed from the direction of the axis L.

[0058] In the embodiments and modifications described above, the groove-shaped recess that functions as a ventilation hole 45a is formed on the bottom surface 43 side of the flange portion 42 of the waterproof cap 40, or on the top surface 35' side of the coil case 30'. However, this recess may be formed on both the bottom surface 43 side and the top surface 35' side of the flange portion 42. Furthermore, in the embodiments and modifications described above, the positioning portion A is composed of recesses 37, 37a, and 37b provided on the periphery of the through hole 36 or on one of the cap body 41, and protrusions 44, 44a, and 44b provided on the other. However, if each recess 37, 37a, and 37b is fitted with the protrusions 44, 44a, and 44b, both the recesses 37, 37a, and 37b and the protrusions 44, 44a, and 44b may be arranged on the periphery of the through hole 36 or on one of the cap body 41, for example, alternating in the circumferential direction, and both the recesses 37, 37a, and 37b and the protrusions 44, 44a, and 44b may also be arranged on the other, for example, alternating in the circumferential direction. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0059] A Positioning section L axis 1. Electric valve body (to be installed) 2. Coil for electric valve 22 windings 30 coil cases 33 Insertion hole 40 Waterproof Cap

Claims

1. A coil for an electric valve, comprising a coil case that houses a coil unit comprising a bobbin around which a winding is wound and a yoke assembled to the bobbin, and mounted to an object via an insertion hole centered on the axis, The coil case is equipped with a waterproof cap that is fixed to it, The coil case and the waterproof cap are provided with positioning parts that engage with each other to position their circumferential positions around their respective axes. The coil case is provided with a through hole that is continuous with the insertion hole. The waterproof cap comprises a convex cap body that covers the through hole, and a flange-shaped portion that extends radially perpendicular to the axis from the opening edge of the cap body. The coil for an electric valve is characterized in that the flange portion abuts against the upper wall portion of the upper end of the coil case.

2. The coil case comprises a circumferential wall portion extending in the circumferential direction and housing the winding, and an annular upper wall portion continuous with the upper end of the circumferential wall portion, the upper wall portion being provided with the through hole. The positioning portion comprises at least one recess provided on the periphery of the through hole or the cap body, and at least one protrusion provided on the periphery of the through hole or the cap body, The electric valve coil according to claim 1, characterized in that the waterproof cap is fixed to the upper wall portion in a state in which the convex portion and the concave portion are fitted together.

3. The electric valve coil according to claim 2, characterized in that the waterproof cap is fixed to the upper wall by the fitting of the protrusion and the recess, or by adhesive or welding in addition to the fitting of the protrusion and the recess.

4. The coil for an electric valve according to claim 3, characterized in that the protrusions are provided in multiple locations at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, protruding from the bottom surface of the flange portion or the upper surface of the upper wall portion.

5. The coil for an electric valve according to claim 4, characterized in that the recesses are provided in multiple locations at equal intervals in the circumferential direction on the bottom surface of the upper wall or the flange.

6. The upper wall portion has an upper surface portion that abuts against the bottom surface of the flange portion. The electric valve coil according to claim 5, characterized in that at least one of the bottom surface and the top surface of the flange portion is provided with a ventilation passage that extends in the radial direction and communicates the inside and outside of the waterproof cap.

7. The electric valve coil according to claim 6, characterized in that the aforementioned ventilation passage is composed of one or more grooves or holes.

8. The electric valve coil according to claim 7, characterized in that the radius dimension L1 from the center of the axis at the location where the ventilation passage is provided to the outer peripheral end of the flange portion is greater than the radius dimension L2 from the center of the axis at the location where the ventilation passage is provided to the outer peripheral end of the upper surface portion.

9. The electric valve coil according to claim 8, characterized in that the waterproof cap is made of resin or rubber.

10. A coil for an electric valve according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and the electric valve to be mounted. An electric valve equipped with a main body.

11. A refrigeration cycle system comprising a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator, wherein the electric valve described in claim 10 is used as the expansion valve.

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