Multi-way valve, thermal management system, and vehicle

Abstract

The present application discloses a multi-way valve, a thermal management system, and a vehicle. The multi-way valve (10) comprises: a valve body (1), provided with a mounting cavity (11), the valve body comprising a valve body bottom wall (101) and a valve body side wall (102); and a valve core (2), rotatably arranged in the mounting cavity. In the circumferential direction of the valve body, a plurality of first circulation openings (12) are provided in the side wall of the valve body at intervals, and a plurality of second circulation openings (13) are provided in the bottom wall of the valve body at intervals; a plurality of circulation grooves (21) are provided in the valve core, groove openings of the circulation grooves face the side wall of the valve body, and the groove openings are used for communicating the first circulation openings with the circulation grooves; the side wall of the side of each circulation groove corresponding to the valve body bottom wall is provided with a flow passage hole (22), and the flow passage hole is used for communicating the circulation groove with the at least one second circulation opening. The multi-way valve provided by the solution of the present application has the functions of connection mode switching and flow regulation and control, thereby facilitating simplifying the structure of the multi-way valve, improving the integration level of the multi-way valve, and reducing the number of valves, thus improving the integration level of the thermal management system.

Description

Multi-way valve, thermal management system and vehicle

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the Patent Office of China on June 30, 2023, with application number 202310803864.6, and invention name “Multi-way valve, thermal management system and vehicle”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the field of valves, and in particular to a multi-way valve, a thermal management system and a vehicle. Background Art

[0003] The thermal management system of new energy vehicles incorporates multiple loops, and the adoption of heat pump technology further complicates these loops. These loops are often regulated by valves with various functions. Some valves switch the thermal management system's conduction mode, while others adjust the coolant flow rate. This results in an excessive number of valves, a low integration level, and increased costs.

[0004] Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above problems, embodiments of the present application provide a multi-way valve, a thermal management system, and a vehicle, aiming to solve the problem of low integration of existing thermal management systems.

[0006] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a multi-way valve, comprising: a valve body having an installation cavity, the valve body comprising a valve body bottom wall and a valve body side wall; a valve core rotatably arranged in the installation cavity; wherein, along the circumference of the valve body, a plurality of first flow ports are spaced apart on the valve body side wall, and a plurality of second flow ports are spaced apart on the valve body bottom wall; a plurality of flow grooves are formed on the valve core, the groove openings of the flow grooves face the valve body side wall, and the grooves are used to connect the first flow ports with the flow grooves; each of the flow grooves is provided with an overflow hole on the side wall corresponding to the side of the valve body bottom wall, and the overflow hole is used to connect the flow groove with at least one of the second flow ports.

[0007] The multi-way valve provided in the embodiment of the present application includes a valve body and a valve core. The valve body has an installation cavity. The valve body includes a valve body bottom wall provided with a plurality of second flow ports and a valve body side wall provided with a plurality of first flow ports. The valve core has a plurality of flow grooves. The flow grooves have notches facing the valve body side wall. The side walls of the flow grooves are provided with flow holes facing the valve body bottom wall. The flow grooves and the flow holes constitute a connecting channel on the valve core. When the valve core is installed in the installation cavity, the connecting channel is used to connect the first flow port and the second flow port. Specifically, the valve core is rotatably installed in the installation cavity. By rotating the valve core, different first flow ports can be adjusted to be connected with different second flow ports, thereby realizing switching of multiple conduction modes. At the same time, during the rotation of the valve core, the connecting area between the flow hole and the second flow port can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the regulation of the flow from the first flow port to the second flow port. Therefore, the multi-way valve provided in the embodiment of the present application not only has the function of switching the conduction mode, but also has the function of flow regulation. At the same time, the connectivity relationship of the multi-way valve is more flexible and diverse, which is conducive to simplifying the structure of the multi-way valve and improving the integration of the multi-way valve itself. When the multi-way valve is applied to the thermal management system, the number of valves can be reduced and the integration of the thermal management system can be improved.

[0008] In some embodiments, the spacing distance between at least two adjacent second flow ports is smaller than the length of the flow hole, and the flow hole can simultaneously connect the at least two adjacent second flow ports, so that the flow hole can connect the flow groove and the at least two second flow ports.

[0009] By setting the spacing distance between at least two adjacent second flow ports to be smaller than the length of the flow hole, the first flow port can be connected to the at least two second flow ports at the same time, thereby enriching the connection relationship of the multi-way valve. At the same time, the flow ratio distribution in the pipeline connected to different second flow ports can also be adjusted by rotating the valve core.

[0010] In some embodiments, a side sealing gasket is further provided in the installation cavity, and the side sealing gasket is clamped between the side wall of the valve body and the valve core. A plurality of first avoidance ports are opened on the side sealing gasket, and the first avoidance ports correspond one-to-one to the first flow ports.

[0011] By arranging a side sealing gasket between the side wall of the valve body and the valve core, the side sealing gasket is used to seal the gap between the side wall of the valve body and the valve core, thereby avoiding cross-flow between different flow grooves.

[0012] In some embodiments, a bottom sealing gasket is further provided in the installation cavity, and the bottom sealing gasket is clamped between the bottom wall of the valve body and the valve core. A plurality of second avoidance ports are opened on the bottom sealing gasket, and the second avoidance ports correspond one-to-one to the second flow ports.

[0013] By arranging a bottom sealing gasket between the bottom wall of the valve body and the valve core, the bottom sealing gasket is used to seal the gap between the bottom wall of the valve body and the valve core, thereby avoiding cross flow between different second flow ports.

[0014] In some embodiments, the valve core includes a side plate and an upper baffle and a lower baffle respectively arranged on opposite ends of the side plate. The side plate, the upper baffle and the lower baffle jointly define the flow groove, and the flow hole is opened on the lower baffle.

[0015] By configuring the valve core to include side plates, an upper baffle and a lower baffle, and utilizing the side plates, the upper baffle and the lower baffle to jointly define a flow groove, the overall mass of the valve core is relatively small, and the valve core is easy to rotate.

[0016] In some embodiments, the valve core further includes a reinforcing rib located in the circulation groove, and the reinforcing rib is connected to the side plate, the upper baffle plate and the lower baffle plate, especially arranged in an integrally formed manner.

[0017] By setting reinforcing ribs in the circulation groove that connect the side plates, upper baffle plate and lower baffle plate, the overall mechanical strength of the valve core is improved and the risk of deformation or breakage of the valve core during rotation is reduced. Especially when the reinforcing ribs are arranged in an integrally formed manner with the side plates, upper baffle plate and lower baffle plate, the overall mechanical strength of the valve core is further improved.

[0018] In some embodiments, the valve body further includes a valve cover connected to the side wall of the valve body and opposite to the bottom wall of the valve body.

[0019] By connecting the valve cover to the end of the valve body side wall opposite to the valve body bottom wall, the installation cavity becomes a closed cavity, and the valve core is installed in the installation cavity. The valve cover can protect the valve core and prevent the valve core from falling out of the installation cavity.

[0020] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve further includes a driving member connected to the valve core and configured to drive the valve core.

[0021] By arranging a driving member to drive the valve core to rotate, the multi-way valve can automatically switch the conduction mode and / or adjust the flow.

[0022] In some embodiments, the driving member is disposed outside the valve body, a transmission shaft at least partially extending from the valve body is mounted on the valve core, and the driving member is drivingly connected to the transmission shaft.

[0023] By setting the valve core in the installation cavity, setting the driving component outside the installation cavity, and using the driving component to drive the transmission shaft connected to the valve core to drive the valve core to rotate, this not only facilitates the installation and maintenance of the driving component, but also reduces the impact of the medium in the installation cavity on the driving component.

[0024] In some embodiments, a single first flow port is used to communicate with a single flow groove, and the number of the second flow ports is greater than the number of the first flow ports.

[0025] By setting a single first circulation port to be connected to a single circulation groove and increasing the number of second circulation ports, the communication relationship of the multi-way valve can be enriched and the application scenarios of the multi-way valve can be expanded.

[0026] In some embodiments, the number of the first flow ports is two, and the two first flow ports are respectively a first side hole and a second side hole arranged opposite to each other on the side wall of the valve body; the valve core is provided with at least two flow grooves; the number of the second flow ports is five, and the five second flow ports are respectively a first through hole, a second through hole, a third through hole, a fourth through hole and a fifth through hole arranged adjacent to each other in sequence around the central axis of the valve core, and the multi-way valve is used to adjust the corresponding communication relationship between the first side hole, the second side hole and the first through hole, the second through hole, the third through hole, the fourth through hole and the fifth through hole by rotating the angle of the valve core.

[0027] The multi-way valve provided in the embodiment of the present application can be used as a six-way valve, which can switch between multiple conduction modes.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first through hole and the third through hole are configured to communicate with two first flow ports respectively, the second through hole is an arc-shaped through hole; and the spacing distance between the first through hole and the fifth through hole is less than the length of the flow hole.

[0029] The multi-way valve provided in the embodiment of the present application can be used as a six-way valve, and it can also perform flow control.

[0030] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a thermal management system, which includes the above-mentioned multi-way valve.

[0031] The embodiment of the present application provides the above-mentioned multi-way valve, eliminating the need to use multiple valves, thereby improving the level of integration of the thermal management system.

[0032] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a vehicle comprising the above-mentioned thermal management system.

[0033] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of the present application. In order to more clearly understand the technical means of the present application, it can be implemented in accordance with the contents of the specification. In order to make the above and other purposes, features and advantages of the present application more obvious and easy to understand, the specific implementation methods of the present application are listed below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the detailed description of the optional embodiments below. The accompanying drawings are for illustration purposes only and are not to be considered as limiting the present application. The same reference numerals are used throughout the accompanying drawings to represent the same components. In the accompanying drawings:

[0035] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the framework structure of an existing five-way valve-three-way valve circulation loop system;

[0036] FIG2 is a first schematic diagram of a three-dimensional structure of a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0037] FIG3 is a second schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of the present application, in which the driving member is omitted;

[0038] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of an exploded structure of a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0039] FIG5 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a valve core in a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0040] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of a valve core in a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0041] FIG7 is a first schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a valve body in a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0042] FIG8 is a second schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a valve body in a multi-way valve provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0043] FIG9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve in a conduction mode according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0044] FIG10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve in conduction mode 2 according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0045] FIG11 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of a multi-way valve in conduction mode three provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0046] FIG12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve in conduction mode 4 according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0047] FIG13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-way valve in conduction mode 5 according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0048] FIG14 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional structure of a multi-way valve in conduction mode 6 according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0049] FIG15 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of a valve core in a multi-way valve provided in other embodiments of the present application;

[0050] FIG16 is a schematic diagram of the framework structure of a thermal management system provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0051] FIG17 is a schematic diagram of a thermal management system framework structure in a conduction mode according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0052] FIG18 is a schematic diagram of a thermal management system framework structure in conduction mode 2 provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0053] FIG19 is a schematic diagram of a thermal management system framework structure in conduction mode three provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0054] FIG20 is a schematic diagram of a thermal management system framework structure in conduction mode 4 provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0055] FIG21 is a schematic diagram of a thermal management system framework structure in conduction mode five according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0056] FIG22 is a schematic diagram of the framework structure of a thermal management system in conduction mode six provided in some embodiments of the present application.

[0057] The reference numerals in the specific embodiments are as follows: 10, multi-way valve; 1, valve body; 101, valve body bottom wall; 1011, support rib; 102, valve body side wall; 1021, second mounting ear; 103, valve cover; 104, threaded fastener; 1031, first mounting ear; 11, mounting cavity; 12, first flow port; 12a, first side hole; 12b, second side hole; 13, second flow port; 13a, first through hole; 13b, second through hole; 13c, third through hole; 13d, fourth through hole; 13e, fifth through hole;

[0058] 2. Valve core; 21. Circulation groove; 22. Flow hole; 201. Side plate; 202. Upper baffle; 203. Lower baffle; 204. Reinforcement rib; 3. Side sealing gasket; 31. First avoidance port; 4. Bottom sealing gasket; 41. Second avoidance port; 5. Driving element; 6. Drive shaft; 20. Battery; 30. Water pump; 40. PTC heater; 50. Other circulation loops; 1', five-way valve; 2', three-way valve. Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0059] The following embodiments of the technical solution of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present application and are therefore only examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application.

[0060] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs; the terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application; the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned figure descriptions are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0061] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the quantity, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, the meaning of "plurality" is more than two, unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined.

[0062] References herein to "embodiments" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it constitute an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive of other embodiments. It is understood, both explicitly and implicitly, by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0063] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" is simply a description of the association relationship between associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent the following three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0064] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the term "multiple" refers to more than two (including two). Similarly, "multiple groups" refers to more than two groups (including two groups), and "multiple pieces" refers to more than two pieces (including two pieces).

[0065] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the technical terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship, are based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the embodiments of the present application.

[0066] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, technical terms such as "installed," "connected," "connected," and "fixed" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integration; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; internal connections between two components or interactions between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present application based on specific circumstances.

[0067] The thermal management system of a new energy vehicle is designed with multiple circulation loops, and the adoption of heat pump technology in the thermal management system has made the circulation loops even more complex. Thermal management systems typically also incorporate a variety of valves with different functions to regulate the circulation loops. Some valves are used to switch the thermal management system's conduction mode, while others are used to adjust the coolant flow distribution ratio, thereby meeting the diverse needs of the thermal management system. As an example, see Figure 1, which shows a schematic diagram of the framework structure of a typical existing five-way valve-three-way valve circulation loop system. This circulation loop system includes a five-way valve 1', a three-way valve 2', a battery 20, a water pump 30, a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heater 40, and other components. In this circulation loop system, the five-way valve 1' performs a conduction mode switching function, i.e., it can change the connection relationship between the five pipe ports A, B, C, D, and E. The three-way valve 2' performs a flow distribution function, enabling the coolant to flow from port 1 to port 2, from port 1 to port 3, or from port 1 to port 2 and port 3 in a specific ratio. The mixed use of multiple valves will result in an excessive number of valves in the thermal management system, a low level of integration of the thermal management system, and increased costs.

[0068] Based on this, the present application proposes an integrated multi-way valve, which has both a conduction mode switching function and a flow distribution function, thereby improving the integration of the entire thermal management system and reducing the cost of the thermal management system.

[0069] Specifically, the multi-way valve includes a valve body and a valve core, the valve body having an installation cavity, the valve core being installed in the installation cavity, the side walls and bottom walls of the installation cavity being provided with a plurality of flow ports, the valve core being provided with a plurality of flow slots, the flow slots having notches and flow holes, wherein the notches are provided corresponding to the side walls of the installation cavity, and the flow holes are provided corresponding to the bottom wall of the installation cavity, and the flow ports on the side walls of the installation cavity can be connected to the flow ports on the bottom wall of the installation cavity through the notches and flow holes of the flow slots. Furthermore, the valve core is rotatably provided in the installation cavity, and by rotating the valve core, the flow ports on the side walls can be adjusted to be connected to different flow ports on the bottom wall of the installation cavity, thereby realizing switching of the conduction mode; at the same time, during the rotation of the valve core, the connection area between the flow holes and the flow ports on the bottom wall of the installation cavity can also be adjusted, thereby realizing flow control.

[0070] The multi-way valve disclosed in some embodiments of the present application may be used in a thermal management system, which may be, but is not limited to, used in a vehicle.

[0071] Please refer to Figures 2 to 15. An embodiment of the present application provides a multi-way valve 10, including: a valve body 1 and a valve core 2; the valve body 1 has an installation cavity 11, and the valve body 1 includes a valve body bottom wall 101 and a valve body side wall 102; the valve core 2 is rotatably arranged in the installation cavity 11; wherein, along the circumference of the valve body 1, a plurality of first flow ports 12 are spaced apart on the valve body side wall 102, and a plurality of second flow ports 13 are spaced apart on the valve body bottom wall 101; a plurality of flow grooves 21 are formed on the valve core 2, and the grooves of the flow grooves 21 face the valve body side wall 102, and the grooves of the flow grooves 21 are used to connect the first flow ports 12 with the flow grooves 21; each flow groove 21 is provided with an overflow hole 22 on the side wall corresponding to the valve body bottom wall 101, and the overflow hole 22 is used to connect the flow groove 21 with at least one second flow port 13.

[0072] Please refer to Figure 4. The multi-way valve 10 includes a valve body 1 and a valve core 2. As a main component of the multi-way valve 10, the valve body 1 is used to seal together with the valve core 2 and can effectively withstand the medium pressure. The medium here can be water, oil or other liquids. Optionally, the shape of the valve body 1 is columnar, including but not limited to cylindrical, prismatic, etc. The material of the valve body 1 includes but is not limited to at least one of plastic and metal. Optionally, the valve body 1 is a metal part, thereby ensuring that the valve body 1 has higher strength and can better withstand the medium pressure. Optionally, the valve body 1 is a plastic part, so that the valve body 1 can be lightweight.

[0073] Specifically, referring to Figures 4, 7, and 8, a mounting cavity 11 is formed on the valve body 1. The mounting cavity 11 serves as a cavity for accommodating the valve core 2. The mounting cavity 11 is also used to accommodate a medium, such as a coolant. The valve body 1 includes a valve body bottom wall 101 and a valve body side wall 102. The valve body bottom wall 101 and the valve body side wall 102 enclose the mounting cavity 11, and the valve body bottom wall 101 and the valve body side wall 102 both constitute the cavity wall of the mounting cavity 11. The valve body bottom wall 101 is plate-shaped, and the valve body side wall 102 is cylindrical. The valve body bottom wall 101 is connected to one end of the valve body side wall 102. Optionally, the valve body bottom wall 101 is circular plate-shaped, and the valve body side wall 102 is cylindrical. Here, the valve body 1 can be an integrally formed part. For example, the valve body 1 is a plastic part and can be integrally formed by an injection molding process. The valve body 1 can also be an assembly formed by assembling the valve body bottom wall 101 and the valve body side wall 102 together.

[0074] Please refer to Figures 7 and 8. A plurality of first flow openings 12 are provided on the side wall 102 of the valve body. Along the circumference of the valve body 1, the plurality of first flow openings 12 are spaced apart in sequence on the side wall 102 of the valve body. The first flow openings 12 are through holes provided on the side wall 102 of the valve body, and the medium can enter the installation cavity 11 or flow out of the installation cavity 11 through the first flow openings 12. The first flow openings 12 can be connected to an external pipeline to discharge or absorb the medium to the outside. Here, the plurality of first flow openings 12 refer to at least two first flow openings 12, such as two, three or four. The plurality of first flow openings 12 can be arranged at equal intervals or at unequal intervals. The opening area and opening shape of each first flow opening 12 can be the same or different. The height of each first flow opening 12 from the bottom wall 101 of the valve body can be the same or different.

[0075] As an example, referring to Figures 8 to 14, two first flow openings 12 are provided on the side wall 102 of the valve body, namely the first side hole 12a and the second side hole 12b. The first side hole 12a and the second side hole 12b are arranged opposite to each other, that is, the line connecting the first side hole 12a and the second side hole 12b intersects with the central axis of the valve body 1.

[0076] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the valve body bottom wall 101 is provided with a plurality of second flow openings 13. These plurality of second flow openings 13 are spaced apart in sequence along the circumference of the valve body 1. That is, with the central axis of the valve body 1 as the center, the plurality of second flow openings 13 are spaced apart circumferentially around the central axis of the valve body 1 on the valve body bottom wall 101. The second flow openings 13 are through-holes provided on the valve body bottom wall 101, through which the medium can enter or flow out of the installation cavity 11. The second flow openings 13 can be connected to an external pipeline to discharge or absorb the medium to the outside. The plurality of second flow openings 13 herein refers to at least two second flow openings 13. The plurality of second flow openings 13 can be arranged at equal or unequal intervals. The opening area and opening shape of each second flow opening 13 can be the same or different. The distance between each second flow opening 13 and the central axis of the valve body 1 can be the same or different.

[0077] As an example, referring to Figures 8 to 14 , the valve body bottom wall 101 is provided with five second flow openings 13, namely, the first through hole 13a, the second through hole 13b, the third through hole 13c, the fourth through hole 13d, and the fifth through hole 13e, arranged clockwise in Figure 8 . The first through hole 13a, the second through hole 13b, the third through hole 13c, the fourth through hole 13d, and the fifth through hole 13e are arranged in a circular pattern centered on the central axis of the valve body 1. The first through hole 13a, the second through hole 13b, and the fifth through hole 13e are arc-shaped, while the third through hole 13c and the fourth through hole 13d are circular. To ensure the strength of the valve body bottom wall 101, two support ribs 1011 are provided in the second through hole 13b, and one support rib 1011 is provided in each of the first through hole 13a and the fifth through hole 13e.

[0078] The valve core 2 is a valve part in the valve that realizes the basic functions of direction control, pressure control or flow control by moving or rotating. The material of the valve core 2 includes but is not limited to at least one of plastic and metal. Optionally, the material of the valve core 2 is metal, thereby ensuring the strength of the valve core 2. Optionally, the material of the valve core 2 is plastic, thereby making the valve core 2 lightweight. The valve core 2 is used to be installed in the installation cavity 11. The valve core 2 can be in direct contact with the valve body 1, for example, the valve core 2 and the valve body 1 have an interference fit; or the valve core 2 can be in indirect contact with the valve body 1, for example, a seal is provided between the valve core 2 and the valve body 1. Specifically, the valve core 2 is rotatably arranged in the installation cavity 11. Here, the rotatable arrangement of the valve core 2 refers to the rotation of the valve core 2 around its own central axis.

[0079] Referring to Figures 4 to 6 , a plurality of flow grooves 21 are provided on the valve core 2. Each flow groove 21 has a notch. The notch of each flow groove 21 faces the valve body side wall 102, and the notch is used to connect the first flow port 12 with the flow groove 21. Optionally, the notches of the plurality of flow grooves 21 are arranged in sequence along the circumference of the valve core 2. At the same time, a flow hole 22 is provided on the side wall of each flow groove 21. Specifically, the flow hole 22 is provided on the side wall of the flow groove 21 corresponding to the valve body bottom wall 101, and the flow hole 22 also corresponds to the valve body bottom wall 101. The flow hole 22 is used to connect the flow groove 21 with the second flow port 13. In other words, the flow groove 21 and the flow hole 22 together constitute a connecting channel on the valve core 2, which is used to connect the first flow port 12 and the second flow port 13 on the valve body 1 for medium to pass through. Optionally, the area of ​​a single flow hole 22 is less than or equal to the area of ​​a single second flow port 13.

[0080] Since the valve core 2 is rotatably disposed in the mounting cavity 11, when the valve core 2 is rotated to different positions, the alignment of the flow hole 22 and different second flow ports 13 can be adjusted, so that the first flow port 12 can be connected to different second flow ports 13, thereby achieving adjustment of multiple conduction modes. In addition, since the valve core 2 is rotatably disposed in the mounting cavity 11, by designing the distance between two adjacent second flow ports 13 and the size of the flow hole 22, it can also be achieved that the first flow port 12 is connected to different numbers of second flow ports 13 in the same rotation position or the same conduction mode. In the same rotation position or the same conduction mode, the flow hole 22 is used to connect the flow slot 21 with at least one second flow port 13. For example, the flow slot 21 is connected to one, two, three or more second flow ports 13 at the same time through the flow hole 22, thereby achieving simultaneous connection of the first flow port 12 with one, two, three or more second flow ports 13.

[0081] For ease of understanding, the following explanation will be given of the six-way valve provided in Figures 9 to 14 as an example. Referring to Figure 9, in conduction mode one, the first side hole 12a is connected to the fifth through hole 13e via a flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2, and the second side hole 12b is connected to the second through hole 13b via another flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2. Referring to Figure 10, in conduction mode two, the first side hole 12a is connected to the first through hole 13a and the fifth through hole 13e via a flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2 (i.e., one first flow port 12 is connected to two second flow ports 13), and the second side hole 12b is connected to the second through hole 13b via another flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2 (i.e., one first flow port 12 is connected to one second flow port 13). Please refer to Figure 11. In conduction mode three, the first side hole 12a is connected to the first through hole 13a through a flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2, and the second side hole 12b is connected to the second through hole 13b through another flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2. Please refer to Figure 12. In conduction mode four, the first side hole 12a is connected to the first through hole 13a through a flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2, and the second side hole 12b is connected to the third through hole 13c through another flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2. Please refer to Figure 13. In conduction mode five, the first side hole 12a is connected to the second through hole 13b through a flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2, and the second side hole 12b is connected to the fourth through hole 13d through another flow groove 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2. Referring to Figure 14 , in conduction mode six, the first side hole 12a communicates with the second through hole 13b via a flow slot 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2, and the second side hole 12b communicates with the fifth through hole 13e via another flow slot 21 and a flow hole 22 of the valve core 2. It should be noted that the above conduction modes one, two, three, four, five, and six are merely examples and do not constitute limitations on the present application.

[0082] Because the valve core 2 is rotatably disposed within the mounting cavity 11, the degree of alignment or misalignment between the flow hole 22 and the second flow port 13 varies during the rotation of the valve core 2, resulting in a different connection area between the flow hole 22 and the second flow port 13. This allows the flow from the first flow port 12 to the second flow port 13 to be adjusted. As an example, referring to FIG12 , if the valve core 2 continues to rotate clockwise a little further from the rotation position shown in FIG12 , the connection area between the flow hole 22 and the first through hole 13a decreases, thereby reducing the flow from the first side hole 12a to the first through hole 13a. The connection area between the flow hole 22 and the third through hole 13c also decreases, reducing the flow from the second side hole 12b to the third through hole 13c. In particular, when the first flow port 12 is simultaneously connected to multiple second flow ports 13, the flow distribution can be adjusted by rotating the valve core 2. As an example, please refer to Figure 10. Based on the rotation position shown in Figure 10, the valve core 2 continues to rotate clockwise a little, and the communication area between the flow hole 22 and the first through hole 13a increases, so that the flow from the first side hole 12a to the first through hole 13a increases, and the communication area between the flow hole 22 and the fifth through hole 13e decreases, and the flow from the first side hole 12a to the fifth through hole 13e decreases.

[0083] Since the multi-way valve 10 provided in the embodiment of the present application connects the first flow port 12 on the valve body side wall 102 and the second flow port 13 on the valve body bottom wall 101 through the communication channel formed by the flow groove 21 and the flow hole 22 on the valve core 2, the communication relationship of the entire multi-way valve 10 is more flexible and diverse. As an example, referring to Figures 9 to 11, by rotating the valve core 2, the first side hole 12a can be connected to the fifth through hole 13e, the first through hole 13a, and the second through hole 13b respectively, and the second side hole 12b can be connected to the second through hole 13b, the third through hole 13c, the fourth through hole 13d, and the fifth through hole 13e respectively. It can be seen that by rotating the valve core 2, the same first flow port 12 can be connected to most of the second flow ports 13. Even if some second flow ports 13 are far away from the first flow port 12, they can still be connected to the flow hole 22 through the flow groove 21 on the valve core 2. Compared with the solution of only providing multiple first flow ports 12 on the side wall 102 of the valve body and connecting two adjacent first flow ports 12 using the flow channel on the valve core 2, or the solution of only providing multiple second flow ports 13 on the bottom wall 101 of the valve body and connecting two adjacent second flow ports 13 using the flow channel on the valve core 2, the multi-way valve 10 provided in the present application is more flexible and helps to simplify the structure of the multi-way valve 10.

[0084] The multi-way valve 10 provided in the embodiment of the present application includes a valve body 1 and a valve core 2, the valve body 1 has an installation cavity 11, the valve body 1 includes a valve body bottom wall 101 provided with multiple second flow ports 13 and a valve body side wall 102 provided with multiple first flow ports 12, the valve core 2 has multiple flow grooves 21, the flow grooves 21 have grooves facing the valve body side wall 102, and the side walls of the flow grooves 21 are provided with flow holes 22 facing the valve body bottom wall 101. The flow grooves 21 and the flow holes 22 constitute a connecting channel on the valve core 2. When the valve core 2 is installed in the installation cavity 11, the connecting channel is used to connect the first flow port 12 and the second flow port 13. Specifically, the valve core 2 is rotatably mounted in the mounting cavity 11. By rotating the valve core 2, the connection between different first flow ports 12 and different second flow ports 13 can be adjusted, thereby realizing switching of multiple conduction modes. At the same time, during the rotation of the valve core 2, the connection area between the flow hole 22 and the second flow port 13 can also be adjusted, thereby realizing the regulation of the flow from the first flow port 12 to the second flow port 13. Therefore, the multi-way valve 10 provided in the embodiment of the present application not only has the conduction mode switching function, but also has the function of flow regulation. At the same time, the connection relationship of the multi-way valve 10 is more flexible and diverse, which is conducive to simplifying the structure of the multi-way valve 10 and improving the integration of the multi-way valve 10 itself. When the multi-way valve 10 is applied to a thermal management system, the number of valves can be reduced, thereby improving the integration of the thermal management system.

[0085] Please refer to Figures 8 and 10. In some embodiments of the present application, the spacing distance between at least two adjacent second flow ports 13 is smaller than the length of the flow hole 22. The flow hole 22 can simultaneously connect the at least two adjacent second flow ports 13, so that the flow hole 22 can be used to connect the flow groove 21 with the at least two second flow ports 13.

[0086] The spacing distance between two adjacent second circulation openings 13 refers to the minimum distance between two adjacent second circulation openings 13. Referring to FIG. 10 , h shown in the figure refers to the spacing distance between the adjacent first through hole 13a and the fifth through hole 13e. When the number of second circulation openings 13 on the valve body bottom wall 101 is greater than two, the spacing distance between two adjacent second circulation openings 13 may be less than the length of the flow hole 22, or the spacing distance between every two adjacent second circulation openings 13 may be less than the length of the flow hole 22, or the spacing distance between some of the adjacent second circulation openings 13 may be less than the length of the flow hole 22.

[0087] The length of the flow hole 22 refers to the maximum dimension of the flow hole 22 along the circumference of the valve core 2. Referring to Figure 10 , H in the figure refers to the length of the flow hole 22. The distance between at least two adjacent second flow openings 13 is less than the length of the flow hole 22. The distance between two adjacent second flow openings 13 can be less than the length of one of the flow holes 22, or the distance between two adjacent second flow openings 13 can be less than the length of all the flow holes 22.

[0088] As an example, please refer to Figure 10. The spacing distance h between the adjacent first through hole 13a and the fifth through hole 13e is less than the length H of the flow hole 22. In conduction mode two, the first side hole 12a is connected to the first through hole 13a and the fifth through hole 13e at the same time through the circulation groove 21 and the flow hole 22. Continuing to rotate the valve core 2 can adjust the flow ratio distribution from the first side hole 12a to the first through hole 13a and from the first side hole 12a to the fifth through hole 13e.

[0089] By setting the spacing distance between at least two adjacent second flow ports 13 to be smaller than the length of the flow hole 22, the first flow port 12 can be connected to at least two second flow ports 13 at the same time, thereby enriching the connection relationship of the multi-way valve 10. At the same time, by rotating the valve core 2, the flow ratio distribution in the pipeline connected to different second flow ports 13 can also be adjusted.

[0090] Please refer to Figures 4, 7 and 8. In some embodiments of the present application, a side sealing gasket 3 is further provided in the installation cavity 11. The side sealing gasket 3 is clamped between the valve body side wall 102 and the valve core 2. A plurality of first avoidance ports 31 are opened on the side sealing gasket 3. The first avoidance ports 31 correspond one-to-one to the first flow ports 12.

[0091] The side seal 3 is a component used to seal the gap between the valve body sidewall 102 and the valve core 2. Optionally, the side seal 3 is an elastic member, including but not limited to a silicone member, a rubber member, etc. The side seal 3 is installed in the mounting cavity 11 and is located between the valve body sidewall 102 and the valve core 2. Optionally, to prevent the side seal 3 from moving when the valve core 2 rotates, the side seal 3 is fixed to the valve body sidewall 102, for example, by adhesive bonding to the valve body sidewall 102.

[0092] To prevent the side gasket 3 from obstructing the first flow opening 12 on the valve body side wall 102, the side gasket 3 is further provided with a plurality of first avoidance openings 31. These first avoidance openings 31 correspond one-to-one with the first flow openings 12. That is, the first avoidance openings 31 on the side gasket 3 are equal in number and corresponding in position to the first flow openings 12 on the valve body side wall 102. However, it should be noted that the first avoidance openings 31 and the first flow opening 12 can be of the same shape and area, or they can be of different shapes and areas. Optionally, the area of ​​the first avoidance opening 31 is larger than that of the first flow opening 12.

[0093] Optionally, a plurality of sealing ribs are provided on the surface of the side sealing gasket 3 facing the valve body side wall 102 , and the sealing ribs extend along the height direction of the valve body side wall 102 , so as to further improve the sealing effect between the side sealing gasket 3 and the valve body side wall 102 .

[0094] By arranging a side sealing gasket 3 between the valve body side wall 102 and the valve core 2 , the side sealing gasket 3 is used to seal the gap between the valve body side wall 102 and the valve core 2 , thereby preventing leakage and cross-flow between different flow grooves 21 .

[0095] Please refer to Figures 4, 7 and 8. In some embodiments of the present application, a bottom sealing gasket 4 is further provided in the installation cavity 11. The bottom sealing gasket 4 is clamped between the bottom wall 101 of the valve body and the valve core 2. A plurality of second avoidance ports 41 are opened on the bottom sealing gasket 4. The second avoidance ports 41 correspond one-to-one to the second flow ports 13.

[0096] The bottom sealing gasket 4 is a component used to seal the gap between the valve body bottom wall 101 and the valve core 2. Optionally, the bottom sealing gasket 4 is an elastic member, including but not limited to silicone, rubber, etc. The bottom sealing gasket 4 is installed in the mounting cavity 11 and is located between the valve body bottom wall 101 and the valve core 2. Optionally, to prevent the bottom sealing gasket 4 from moving when the valve core 2 rotates, the bottom sealing gasket 4 is fixed to the valve body bottom wall 101, for example, by adhesive bonding to the valve body bottom wall 101.

[0097] To prevent the bottom gasket 4 from obstructing the second flow opening 13 on the bottom wall 101 of the valve body, the bottom gasket 4 is further provided with a plurality of second avoidance openings 41. These second avoidance openings 41 correspond one-to-one with the second flow openings 13. That is, the second avoidance openings 41 on the bottom gasket 4 are equal in number and corresponding in position to the second flow openings 13 on the bottom wall 101 of the valve body. However, it should be noted that the second avoidance openings 41 and the second flow opening 13 can be of the same shape and area, or they can be of different shapes and areas. Optionally, the area of ​​the second avoidance openings 41 is larger than that of the second flow opening 13.

[0098] By disposing a bottom sealing gasket 4 between the valve body bottom wall 101 and the valve core 2 , the bottom sealing gasket 4 is used to seal the gap between the valve body bottom wall 101 and the valve core 2 , thereby preventing cross flow between different second flow ports 13 .

[0099] Please refer to Figures 4, 5 and 6. In some embodiments of the present application, the valve core 2 includes a side plate 201 and an upper baffle 202 and a lower baffle 203 respectively arranged on opposite ends of the side plate 201. The side plate 201, the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203 jointly define a flow groove 21, and the flow hole 22 is opened on the lower baffle 203.

[0100] The valve core 2 includes a side plate 201, an upper baffle 202 and a lower baffle 203. The side plate 201 refers to a plate body arranged upright relative to the bottom wall 101 of the valve body. The lower baffle 203 is a plate body arranged parallel to the bottom wall 101 of the valve body, and the lower baffle 203 is connected to one end of the side plate 201, specifically, the lower baffle 203 is connected to the end of the side plate 201 corresponding to the bottom wall 101 of the valve body, that is, the lower baffle 203 is arranged corresponding to the bottom wall 101 of the valve body. The upper baffle 202 is connected to the other end of the side plate 201. Optionally, the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203 are arranged parallel to each other. Optionally, the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203 are both circular plates. Optionally, the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203 are integrally formed with the side plate 201.

[0101] The side plate 201, the upper baffle 202, and the lower baffle 203 collectively define a flow channel 21. Specifically, the side plate 201, the upper baffle 202, and the lower baffle 203 form the sidewalls of the flow channel 21. A flow hole 22 is defined on the sidewall of the flow channel 21 corresponding to the valve body bottom wall 101. Specifically, the flow hole 22 is defined on the lower baffle 203. The side plate 201 can be configured in a variety of different shapes. For example, the projection of the side plate 201 on the valve body bottom wall 101 can be in the shape of a straight line, a Y-shape, a cross, or a shuttle. Depending on the shape of the side plate 201, the side plate 201, the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203 jointly define different numbers of flow grooves 21. For example, when the projection of the side plate 201 on the bottom wall 101 of the valve body is in the shape of a straight line, the side plate 201, the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203 can jointly define two flow grooves 21. When the projection of the side plate 201 on the bottom wall 101 of the valve body is in the shape of a cross, the side plate 201, the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203 can jointly define four flow grooves 21.

[0102] By configuring the valve core 2 to include a side plate 201 , an upper baffle 202 and a lower baffle 203 , the side plate 201 , the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203 are used to define the flow groove 21 , so that the overall mass of the valve core 2 is relatively small and the valve core 2 is easy to rotate.

[0103] Please refer to Figures 4, 5 and 6. In some embodiments of the present application, the valve core 2 also includes a reinforcing rib 204 located in the circulation groove 21, and the reinforcing rib 204 is connected to the side plate 201, the upper baffle 202 and the lower baffle 203, especially arranged in an integrally molded manner.

[0104] The reinforcing ribs 204 are convex ribs used to enhance the overall mechanical strength of the valve core 2. Specifically, the reinforcing ribs 204 are located within the circulation slot 21 and are connected to the side plates 201, the upper baffle 202, and the lower baffle 203. Optionally, the reinforcing ribs 204 are integrally formed with the side plates 201, the upper baffle 202, and the lower baffle 203. Optionally, multiple reinforcing ribs 204 are provided within each circulation slot 21, with the multiple reinforcing ribs 204 spaced apart within the circulation slot 21.

[0105] By setting the reinforcing ribs 204 connected to the side plate 201, the upper baffle plate 202 and the lower baffle plate 203 in the circulation groove 21, the overall mechanical strength of the valve core 2 is improved and the risk of deformation or breakage of the valve core 2 during rotation is reduced, especially when the reinforcing ribs 204 are arranged in an integrally formed manner with the side plate 201, the upper baffle plate 202 and the lower baffle plate 203, the overall mechanical strength of the valve core 2 is further improved.

[0106] 3 and 4 , in some embodiments of the present application, the valve body 1 further includes a valve cover 103 , which is connected to the valve body side wall 102 and is opposite to the valve body bottom wall 101 .

[0107] The valve cover 103 is a component used to seal the installation cavity 11. It is mounted on the valve body sidewall 102, specifically at the end of the valve body sidewall 102 opposite the valve body bottom wall 101, so that the valve cover 103 faces the valve body bottom wall 101. Optionally, a sealing ring (not shown) is interposed between the valve body sidewall 102 and the valve cover 103. Optionally, the valve cover 103 is removably mounted on the valve body sidewall 102. Optionally, four first mounting ears 1031 are protruding from the edge of the valve cover 103, and the first mounting ears 1031 are provided with a first mounting hole, which can be a plain hole or a threaded hole; four second mounting ears 1021 are protruding from the outer surface of the valve body side wall 102, and the second mounting ears 1021 correspond one-to-one to the first mounting ears 1031, and the second mounting ears 1021 are provided with a second mounting hole, which is a threaded hole; the first mounting ears 1031 and the second mounting ears 1021 are connected by a threaded fastener 104, specifically, the threaded fastener 104 passes through the first mounting hole and is threadedly connected to the second mounting hole.

[0108] Optionally, the valve cover 103 abuts the valve core 2. Optionally, the valve core 2 includes a side plate 201, an upper baffle 202, and a lower baffle 203. The valve cover 103 abuts a surface of the upper baffle 202 that is away from the side plate 201. By facilitating the abutment of the valve cover 103 against the valve core 2, the valve core 2 is confined within the installation cavity 11.

[0109] By connecting the valve cover 103 to the end of the valve body side wall 102 opposite to the valve body bottom wall 101, the installation cavity 11 becomes a closed cavity, and the valve core 2 is installed in the installation cavity 11. The valve cover 103 can protect the valve core 2 and prevent the valve core 2 from falling out of the installation cavity 11.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 2 , in some embodiments of the present application, the multi-way valve 10 further includes a driving member 5 , which is connected to the valve core 2 and is used to drive the valve core 2 .

[0111] The driving member 5 refers to a device that provides power. Here, the driving member 5 is connected to the valve core 2, and the driving member 5 is used to drive the valve core 2 to rotate. As an example, the driving member 5 is a motor, and the output shaft of the motor is connected to the valve core 2.

[0112] By providing the driving member 5 to drive the valve core 2 to rotate, the multi-way valve 10 can automatically switch the conduction mode and / or adjust the flow.

[0113] 2 to 5 , in some embodiments of the present application, the driving member 5 is disposed outside the valve body 1 , a transmission shaft 6 at least partially extending out of the valve body 1 is mounted on the valve core 2 , and the driving member 5 is drivingly connected to the transmission shaft 6 .

[0114] The driving member 5 is arranged outside the valve body 1. As an example, the valve body 1 includes a valve body bottom wall 101, a valve body side wall 102 and a valve cover 103. The valve body bottom wall 101 and the valve cover 103 are respectively connected to the two ends of the valve body side wall 102, and are enclosed with the valve body side wall 102 to form a sealed installation cavity 11. The valve core 2 is installed in the installation cavity 11, and the driving member 5 is installed outside the installation cavity 11. Specifically, the driving member 5 is installed on the valve cover 103.

[0115] A transmission shaft 6 is mounted on the valve core 2. The valve core 2 is mounted within a mounting cavity 11, and the driver 5 is mounted outside the mounting cavity 11. At least a portion of the transmission shaft 6 extends out of the mounting cavity 11 and is drivingly connected to the driver 5. As an example, the transmission shaft 6 is integrally formed with the valve core 2, and the driver 5 is mounted on the valve cover 103. The valve cover 103 is provided with a through hole (not shown). The free end of the transmission shaft 6 passes through the through hole and extends out of the mounting cavity 11. The free end of the transmission shaft 6 is drivingly connected to the driver 5. Optionally, the free end of the transmission shaft 6 is spline-connected to the driver 5, wherein the free end of the transmission shaft 6 is provided with an external spline, and the output shaft of the driver 5 is provided with an internal spline.

[0116] By setting the valve core 2 in the installation cavity 11, the driving member 5 outside the installation cavity 11, and using the driving member 5 to drive the transmission shaft 6 connected to the valve core 2 to drive the valve core 2 to rotate, this not only facilitates the installation and maintenance of the driving member 5, but also reduces the impact of the medium in the installation cavity 11 on the driving member 5.

[0117] 4 , 7 and 8 , in some embodiments of the present application, a single first flow port 12 is used to communicate with a single flow groove 21 , and the number of the second flow ports 13 is greater than the number of the first flow ports 12 .

[0118] Specifically, a single first flow port 12 is used to communicate with a single flow groove 21, that is, the number of first flow ports 12 is equal to the number of flow grooves 21, and as the valve core 2 rotates, at different rotational positions, the positions of the first flow ports 12 correspond to the positions of the flow grooves 21, respectively, thereby achieving a one-to-one communication between a single first flow port 12 and a single flow groove 21. As an example, referring to FIG15 , there are three first flow ports 12, each of which is arranged at equal angular intervals, that is, along the circumference of the valve body 1, the angle α formed between two adjacent first flow ports 12 and the central axis of the valve body 1 is equal, both being 120°; there are three flow grooves 21, and along the circumference of the valve core 2, the arc β of the notch of each flow groove 21 is also equal, both being 120°; thus, when the valve core 2 rotates, at different rotational positions, one first flow port 12 is connected with one flow groove 21.

[0119] The number of second flow ports 13 is greater than the number of first flow ports 12. Thus, at least one first flow port 12 can communicate with different second flow ports 13 at different rotational positions, thereby enriching the communication relationships of the multi-way valve 10. It will be appreciated that the greater the number of second flow ports 13, the more complex and diverse the communication relationships of the multi-way valve 10. Optionally, the number of second flow ports 13 is greater than twice the number of first flow ports 12. For example, the number of first flow ports 12 is two, and the number of second flow ports 13 is five.

[0120] By setting a single first flow port 12 to be connected to a single flow groove 21 and increasing the number of second flow ports 13, the connection relationship of the multi-way valve 10 can be enriched and the application scenarios of the multi-way valve 10 can be expanded.

[0121] Please refer to Figures 2 to 14. In some embodiments of the present application, there are two first flow ports 12, which are respectively a first side hole 12a and a second side hole 12b arranged opposite to each other on the side wall 102 of the valve body; the valve core 2 is provided with at least two flow grooves 21; there are five second flow ports 13, which are respectively a first through hole 13a, a second through hole 13b, a third through hole 13c, a fourth through hole 13d and a fifth through hole 13e arranged adjacent to each other in sequence around the central axis of the valve core 2. The multi-way valve 10 is used to adjust the corresponding communication relationship between the first side hole 12a, the second side hole 12b and the first through hole 13a, the second through hole 13b, the third through hole 13c, the fourth through hole 13d and the fifth through hole 13e by rotating the angle of the valve core 2. Optionally, the first through hole 13a and the third through hole 13c are configured to communicate with the two first flow ports 12 respectively, and the second through hole 13b is an arc-shaped through hole; the spacing distance between the first through hole 13a and the fifth through hole 13e is less than the length of the flow hole 22.

[0122] When the multi-way valve 10 is used, the valve core 2 can be rotated to switch the conduction mode of the multi-way valve 10. The multi-way valve 10 has at least the following six conduction modes:

[0123] Referring to FIG. 9 , in the first conduction mode, the first side hole 12 a is connected to the fifth through hole 13 e , and the second side hole 12 b is connected to the second through hole 13 b .

[0124] 10 , in conduction mode 2, the first side hole 12a is connected to the first through hole 13a and the fifth through hole 13e, and the second side hole 12b is connected to the second through hole 13b. During the rotation of the valve core 2, the flow ratio distribution between the first through hole 13a and the fifth through hole 13e can also be adjusted.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 11 , in conduction mode three, the first side hole 12 a is connected to the first through hole 13 a , and the second side hole 12 b is connected to the second through hole 13 b .

[0126] Referring to FIG. 12 , in conduction mode four, the first side hole 12 a is connected to the first through hole 13 a , and the second side hole 12 b is connected to the third through hole 13 c .

[0127] Referring to FIG. 13 , in conduction mode five, the first side hole 12 a is connected to the second through hole 13 b , and the second side hole 12 b is connected to the fourth through hole 13 d .

[0128] Referring to FIG. 14 , in conduction mode six, the first side hole 12 a is connected to the second through hole 13 b , and the second side hole 12 b is connected to the fifth through hole 13 e .

[0129] The multi-way valve 10 provided in the embodiment of the present application can be used as a six-way valve, which can not only switch between multiple conduction modes, but also regulate flow.

[0130] 16 to 22 , an embodiment of the present application provides a thermal management system including the multi-way valve 10 described above.

[0131] Thermal management systems are installed within vehicles to distribute heat between different systems, such as the battery system and motor system. With the development of new energy vehicles, their thermal management systems are constantly being upgraded. The number of loop states that require control within the vehicle is constantly increasing, and the requirements for valves are also constantly increasing. To meet the thermal management needs of new energy vehicles, the current main method is to connect multiple valves in parallel or series to achieve multiple loops. This results in a larger overall valve footprint and a lower level of integration in the thermal management system.

[0132] Referring to Figure 16 , the thermal management system includes a battery circuit and other circuits 50. These other circuits 50 include, but are not limited to, at least one of an air conditioning circuit and a motor circuit. The thermal management system also includes a multi-way valve 10, which connects to the battery circuit and other circuits 50. By adjusting the conduction mode of the multi-way valve 10, the different circuits can be opened and closed.

[0133] Specifically, referring to Figure 16 , the battery circulation loop includes a first branch, a second branch, and a third branch. The first branch is connected in parallel with the second branch, and both are connected in series with the third branch. The first branch flows through the battery 20, and the third branch flows through the PTC heater 40. A water pump 30 is connected to the third branch. One end of the first branch is connected to the third branch, while the other end is connected to a second flow port 13 on the multi-way valve 10. The second branch is connected to the third branch at one end, while the other end is connected to another second flow port 13 on the multi-way valve 10. The third branch is connected to another circulation loop 50.

[0134] The following description uses the multi-way valve 10 as an example, a six-way valve as shown in Figures 2 to 14. Specifically, referring to Figures 16 to 22, the six-way valve has seven circulation openings, namely a first side hole 12a, a second side hole 12b, a first through hole 13a, a second through hole 13b, a third through hole 13c, a fourth through hole 13d, and a fifth through hole 13e. The first side hole 12a, the second side hole 12b, the second through hole 13b, and the third through hole 13c are each connected to another circulation loop 50; the first through hole 13a and the fourth through hole 13d are used to connect to the same external pipeline. Specifically, the first through hole 13a and the fourth through hole 13d are both connected to the other end of the first branch; and the fifth through hole 13e is connected to the other end of the second branch.

[0135] By rotating the valve core 2, the six-way valve can realize the switching of the conduction mode, and the different circulation loops in the thermal management system can realize the switching of conduction and shutdown.

[0136] Please refer to Figure 17. When the six-way valve is in conduction mode one, other circulation loops 50 in the thermal management system are connected through the second side hole 12b and the second through hole 13b (the bold solid line in the figure represents conduction). In the battery circulation loop, the second branch and the third branch are connected through the first side hole 12a and the fifth through hole 13e, and the first branch flowing through the battery 20 is cut off, so that the coolant does not flow through the battery 20.

[0137] Please refer to Figure 18. In conduction mode two, other circulation loops 50 in the thermal management system are connected through the second side hole 12b and the second through hole 13b. In the battery circulation loop, the second branch and the third branch are connected through the first side hole 12a and the fifth through hole 13e, and the first branch and the third branch are connected through the first side hole 12a and the first through hole 13a. The flow rate of the coolant in the first branch and the second branch is distributed proportionally.

[0138] Please refer to Figure 19. In conduction mode three, other circulation loops 50 in the thermal management system are connected through the second side hole 12b and the second through hole 13b. In the battery circulation loop, the first branch and the third branch are connected through the first side hole 12a and the first through hole 13a, and the second branch is closed.

[0139] Please refer to Figure 20. In conduction mode four, other circulation loops 50 in the thermal management system are connected to the third through hole 13c through the second side hole 12b. In the battery circulation loop, the first branch and the third branch are connected to each other through the first side hole 12a and the first through hole 13a, and the second branch is closed.

[0140] Please refer to Figure 21. In conduction mode five, other circulation loops 50 in the thermal management system are connected to the second through hole 13b through the first side hole 12a. In the battery circulation loop, the first branch and the third branch are connected to the fourth through hole 13d through the second side hole 12b, and the second branch is closed.

[0141] Please refer to Figure 22. In conduction mode six, other circulation loops 50 in the thermal management system are connected to the second through hole 13b through the first side hole 12a. In the battery circulation loop, the second branch and the third branch are connected to the fifth through hole 13e through the second side hole 12b. The first branch is closed and the coolant does not flow through the battery 20.

[0142] In the embodiment of the present application, the multi-way valve 10 is provided, eliminating the need for multiple valves and improving the integration level of the thermal management system.

[0143] An embodiment of the present application also provides a vehicle, which includes the above-mentioned thermal management system.

[0144] Vehicles can be but are not limited to fuel vehicles, gas vehicles or new energy vehicles. New energy vehicles can be but are not limited to pure electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles or extended-range vehicles, etc.

[0145] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and they should all be included in the scope of the claims and specification of the present application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. The present application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions that fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A multi-way valve, characterized in that: include: A valve body having a mounting cavity, wherein the valve body comprises a valve body bottom wall and a valve body side wall; A valve core is rotatably disposed in the installation cavity; Among them, along the circumference of the valve body, a plurality of first flow ports are spaced apart on the side wall of the valve body, and a plurality of second flow ports are spaced apart on the bottom wall of the valve body; a plurality of flow grooves are formed on the valve core, and the groove openings of the flow grooves face the side wall of the valve body, and the grooves are used to connect the first flow ports with the flow grooves; each of the flow grooves is provided with a flow hole on the side wall corresponding to the side of the bottom wall of the valve body, and the flow hole is used to connect the flow groove with at least one of the second flow ports.

2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that: The spacing distance between at least two adjacent second flow openings is smaller than the length of the flow hole, and the flow hole can simultaneously connect the at least two adjacent second flow openings, so that the flow hole can connect the flow groove with the at least two second flow openings.

3. The multi-way valve according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A side sealing gasket is also arranged in the installation cavity, and the side sealing gasket is clamped between the side wall of the valve body and the valve core. A plurality of first avoidance openings are opened on the side sealing gasket, and the first avoidance openings correspond to the first flow openings one by one.

4. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: A bottom sealing gasket is also arranged in the installation cavity, and the bottom sealing gasket is clamped between the bottom wall of the valve body and the valve core. A plurality of second avoidance openings are opened on the bottom sealing gasket, and the second avoidance openings correspond to the second flow openings one by one.

5. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The valve core includes a side plate and an upper baffle and a lower baffle respectively arranged on opposite ends of the side plate, the side plate, the upper baffle and the lower baffle jointly define the flow slot, and the flow hole is opened on the lower baffle.

6. The multi-way valve according to claim 5, characterized in that: The valve core further comprises a reinforcing rib located in the circulation groove, wherein the reinforcing rib is connected to the side plate, the upper baffle plate and the lower baffle plate, and is particularly arranged in an integrally formed manner.

7. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The valve body further comprises a valve cover, which is connected to the side wall of the valve body and is opposite to the bottom wall of the valve body.

8. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The multi-way valve further comprises a driving member, wherein the driving member is connected to the valve core and is used for driving the valve core.

9. The multi-way valve according to claim 8, characterized in that: The driving member is arranged outside the valve body, a transmission shaft at least partially extending out of the valve body is installed on the valve core, and the driving member is drivingly connected to the transmission shaft.

10. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The single first flow opening is used to communicate with the single flow groove, and the number of the second flow openings is greater than the number of the first flow openings.

11. The multi-way valve according to claim 10, characterized in that: The number of the first flow openings is two, and the two first flow openings are respectively a first side hole and a second side hole arranged opposite to each other on the side wall of the valve body; the valve core is provided with at least two flow grooves; the number of the second flow openings is five, and the five second flow openings are respectively a first through hole, a second through hole, a third through hole, a fourth through hole and a fifth through hole arranged adjacent to each other in sequence around the central axis of the valve core, and the multi-way valve is used to adjust the corresponding connection relationship between the first side hole, the second side hole and the first through hole, the second through hole, the third through hole, the fourth through hole and the fifth through hole by rotating the angle of the valve core.

12. The multi-way valve according to claim 11, characterized in that: The first through hole and the third through hole are configured to be connected to the two first flow ports respectively, and the second through hole is an arc-shaped through hole; the spacing distance between the first through hole and the fifth through hole is smaller than the length of the flow hole.

13. A thermal management system, characterized in that: It comprises a multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A vehicle, characterized in that: Comprising a thermal management system according to claim 13.

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