Valve apparatus

Abstract

Presented is a valve apparatus comprising: a valve housing having a plurality of ports through which cooling water passes; a stem including a flow path portion communicating with the ports and rotatably disposed inside the valve housing; and a seal disposed between the stem and the valve housing, wherein the seal comprises a seat seal which is in contact with the stem and can be in contact with or spaced apart from an inner surface of the valve housing, a seating portion formed on the seat seal, and a rubber seal inserted into the seating portion and coupled to the seat seal.

Description

valve device

[0001] The embodiments relate to a valve device, and more particularly to a valve device capable of increasing the sealing between a seal and a valve housing and increasing the durability of the seal.

[0002] Recently, due to environmental concerns surrounding internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles and other eco-friendly vehicles are expanding in popularity. However, while conventional internal combustion engine vehicles can heat their interiors using waste heat from the engine, eliminating the need for separate heating energy, electric vehicles lack engines and therefore no heat source. Consequently, they must rely on separate energy sources for heating, resulting in lower fuel efficiency. Furthermore, this drawback reduces the driving range of electric vehicles, necessitating frequent recharging, and other inconveniences.

[0003] Meanwhile, electrification of vehicles has introduced new thermal management requirements not only for the interior but also for electrical components such as high-voltage batteries and motors. In other words, in electric vehicles, the interior, battery, and electrical components each have distinct climate control needs. This necessitates technologies that address these needs independently while simultaneously integrating them to maximize energy savings. Accordingly, the concept of integrated vehicle thermal management is being proposed, aiming to independently manage thermal management for each component while simultaneously integrating the overall vehicle's thermal management to enhance thermal efficiency.

[0004] In order to perform integrated thermal management of these vehicles, it is necessary to integrate and modularize complex coolant lines and components. This requires a modularization concept that is simple to manufacture while modularizing multiple components and is also compact in terms of packaging.

[0005] Additionally, for electric vehicles, technology is required to improve driving range and interior heating and cooling performance by utilizing waste heat from components such as heat-generating electrical components and batteries to ensure energy efficiency.

[0006] The matters described as background technology above are only intended to enhance understanding of the background of the present invention, and should not be taken as an admission that they correspond to prior art already known to those skilled in the art.

[0007] The embodiments of the present disclosure aim to provide a valve device capable of increasing the airtightness between a seal and a valve housing.

[0008] In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure aim to provide a valve device capable of improving the durability of a seal.

[0009] In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure aim to provide a valve device capable of reducing the driving force of an actuator.

[0010] In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure aim to provide a valve device having a compact structure.

[0011] The problems to be solved through the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0012] In order to achieve the above object, the valve device according to the present invention comprises: a valve housing having a plurality of ports through which cooling water passes; a stem including a flow path communicating with the ports and rotatably disposed inside the valve housing; and a seal disposed between the stem and the valve housing. The seal comprises a seat seal that is in contact with the stem and can be in contact with or spaced apart from the inner surface of the valve housing, a seating portion formed on the seat seal, and a rubber seal that is inserted into the seating portion and coupled to the seat seal.

[0013] As the pressure inside the valve housing increases, the size of the seating portion may decrease.

[0014] As the pressure inside the valve housing increases, the gap between the seat seal and the rubber seal may become smaller.

[0015] The above-mentioned mounting portion may be a groove formed at a predetermined depth from the seat seal contact surface that contacts the inner surface of the valve housing.

[0016] As the rubber seal is inserted into the mounting portion, the sheet seal may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the rubber seal.

[0017] The above seal may further include a through hole communicating with the euro portion. The sheet seal may spatially separate the through hole and the mounting portion from each other.

[0018] The valve housing may include a seal insertion groove into which at least a portion of the seal is inserted.

[0019] The above seat seal may include a seat seal contact surface that contacts the inner surface of the valve housing, a seat seal pressure surface positioned to face the port of the valve housing, and a seat seal insertion surface positioned opposite the seat seal pressure surface.

[0020] The above seat seal pressure surface can be connected to the seat seal contact surface at an angle with respect to the direction in which the port of the valve housing extends.

[0021] The above seat seal insertion surface can be connected to the seat seal contact surface at an angle with respect to the direction in which the port of the valve housing extends.

[0022] The above rubber seal may include a rubber seal contact surface that is arranged in the mounting portion and comes into contact with the inner surface of the valve housing and one surface of the seat seal.

[0023] As the pressure inside the valve housing increases, the contact area between the rubber seal contact surface and one surface of the seat seal may increase.

[0024] At least one of the above sheet seal or the above rubber seal may include an elastic material.

[0025] The above rubber seal may have a circular ring shape.

[0026] The above rubber seal may have an X-ring shape.

[0027] The above rubber seal may have a rectangular cross-section based on a cross-sectional line perpendicular to the direction in which the seal extends, and may have a protrusion protruding outward.

[0028] The above seat seal and the above rubber seal may be arranged in multiple numbers along the circumference of the valve housing.

[0029] The valve device may further include an actuator for controlling rotation of the stem.

[0030] One side of the above seat seal facing the stem may have a protrusion that protrudes in a belt shape and comes into contact with the stem.

[0031] When one side of the seat seal facing the inner surface of the valve housing is spaced apart from the inner surface of the valve housing, the distance from the inner surface of the valve housing on the side closer to the through hole based on the seating portion may be formed to be equal to or greater than the distance from the inner surface of the valve housing on the side farther from the through hole based on the seating portion.

[0032] The above sheet seal and the above rubber seal can be arranged at equal intervals.

[0033] The above sheet seal and the above rubber seal can be arranged at equal intervals in the same number as the plurality of ports.

[0034] The valve device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can increase the airtightness between the seal and the valve housing, thereby reducing the possibility of coolant leakage.

[0035] In addition, the valve device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can improve the durability of the seal, thereby reducing the maintenance cost of the seal.

[0036] In addition, the valve device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can reduce the driving force of the actuator, thereby eliminating the need to use a high-spec actuator, thereby reducing the overall operating cost.

[0037] In addition, the valve device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can implement a compact structure in which the flow of coolant flowing through multiple ports of the valve housing can be switched.

[0038] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of an integrated thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a valve device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 3 is a schematic bottom cross-sectional view of a valve device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIGS. 4A and 4B are enlarged views of part A of FIG. 3 to explain deformation of the seal when the pressure inside the valve device increases.

[0043] Fig. 5 is a bottom cross-sectional view of a comparative example of a valve device.

[0044] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of part B of Figure 5.

[0045] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a seal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram showing the sealing force between the rubber seal and the seat seal and the sealing force between the rubber seal and the valve housing before pressure is generated inside the valve device.

[0047] Figure 9 is a conceptual diagram showing the sealing force between the rubber seal and the seat seal and the sealing force between the rubber seal and the valve housing when the pressure inside the valve device increases.

[0048] The terms used in the examples are selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of the present invention. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the relevant invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based on their meanings and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply their names.

[0049] Additionally, terms such as “-unit”, “-module”, etc. described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented as hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0050] As used herein, when an expression such as "at least one" precedes an array of elements, it modifies the entire array of elements, not just each individual element. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted to include a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c.

[0051] In addition, in the drawings below, the thickness and size of each layer are exaggerated for convenience and clarity of explanation, and the same reference numerals in the drawings indicate the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any one and all combinations of one or more of the listed items. In addition, the meaning of "connected" in this specification means not only when member A and member B are directly connected, but also when member C is interposed between member A and member B, so that member A and member B are indirectly connected.

[0052] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Furthermore, when used herein, the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" specify the presence of stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0053] Additionally, terms such as “-unit”, “-module”, etc. described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented as hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0054] Although terms such as first, second, etc. are used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, it is to be understood that these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another. Accordingly, a first element, component, region, layer, or portion described below may also refer to a second element, component, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0055] Spatial terms such as "lower," "below," "lower," "upper," and "above" may be used to facilitate understanding of one element or feature depicted in the drawings relative to another element or feature. These spatial terms are intended to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure in various process states or usage states and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. For example, if an element or feature in a drawing is flipped, an element or feature described as "lower" or "below" becomes "upper" or "above." Therefore, "below" encompasses "upper" or "below."

[0056] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0057] Fig. 1 is a conceptual diagram of an integrated thermal management system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a valve device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 is a schematic bottom cross-sectional view of a valve device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figs. 4a and 4b are enlarged views of part A of Fig. 3 to explain deformation of a seal when the pressure inside the valve device increases.

[0058] Fig. 5 is a bottom cross-sectional view of a comparative example of a valve device, and Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of part B of Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a seal according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing the sealing force between a rubber seal and a seat seal and the sealing force between a rubber seal and a valve housing before pressure is generated inside the valve device, and Fig. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing the sealing force between a rubber seal and a seat seal and the sealing force between a rubber seal and a valve housing when pressure inside the valve device increases.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 1, the integrated thermal management system (1) according to the present invention may include a valve device (100), a reservoir tank (200), a pump (300), and a chiller (400).

[0060] The valve device (100) can control the direction / flow rate / flow of the cooling water circulating through the integrated thermal management system (1) through the cooling water line (10). The cooling water circulating through the integrated thermal management system (1) through the cooling water line (10) can pass through the valve device (100). For example, the valve device (100) can be implemented as a 6-way valve or an 8-way valve, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0061] The valve device (100) is connected to the reservoir tank (200). In addition, the valve device (100) may be connected to a chiller (400), an automobile component (20), a heat exchanger (30), and a battery (40). For example, the coolant may cool the automobile component (20) by dissipating heat generated in the automobile component (20) (PE (Power Electric), motor, inverter, converter, etc.) through a radiator or by transferring the heat of the automobile component (20) to a coolant through the chiller (400). In addition, the coolant may cool the battery (40) by dissipating heat generated in the battery (40) through a battery radiator or by transferring the heat to a coolant through the chiller (400).

[0062] The reservoir tank (200) provides a space through which coolant can circulate. The interior of the reservoir tank (200) can be partitioned by at least one partition wall. Coolant introduced into the reservoir tank (200) can sequentially flow through the interior space of the reservoir tank (200) partitioned by at least one partition wall, and air contained in the coolant can be separated and move upward. That is, the coolant can be separated from the air as it flows through the interior of the reservoir tank (200). The coolant from which the air has been separated can flow to the valve device (100).

[0063] The reservoir tank (200) may be connected to a heat exchanger (30). Coolant may exchange heat with the refrigerant of the heat exchanger (30) as it passes through the heat exchanger (30), and as a result, the temperature of the coolant may be lowered. The coolant with the lowered temperature may be introduced into the reservoir tank (200) through the coolant line (10). The coolant introduced into the reservoir tank (200) may be introduced back into the valve device (100). For example, the heat exchanger (30) may be a coolant HTR (Coolant Sheath Heater). The coolant HTR is a water-heated heater for preheating a battery of an electric vehicle, and may be used for shortening a rapid charging time and for low-temperature battery output.

[0064] The pump (300) can generate driving force to allow coolant to flow within the integrated thermal management system (1) according to the present invention. The pump (300) can be connected to a valve device (100). Coolant introduced into the valve device (100) can flow to the battery (40) and / or automobile parts (20) through the coolant line (10) by the pump (300). In one embodiment, the integrated thermal management system (1) according to the present invention may include a plurality of pumps (300).

[0065] A chiller (400) may be connected to a valve device (100). The chiller (400) may be used to remove heat from cooling water circulating in a cooling water line (10). For example, the chiller (400) may be implemented with a vapor-compression or absorption refrigeration cycle. The cooling water cooled through the chiller (400) may be introduced into the valve device (100) and circulated in the cooling water line (10) of the integrated thermal management system (1).

[0066] In the past, there was a problem that the size of the entire thermal management system increased as multiple valve devices were configured inside the thermal management system for the circulation of coolant through the coolant line (10). However, according to the integrated thermal management system (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention, the structure of the integrated thermal management system (1) can be compact as the flow direction of coolant circulating through the components of the integrated thermal management system (1) is switched by one valve device (100). The integrated thermal management system (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention can realize a compact structure and secure design freedom by configuring an integrated module with one valve device (100).

[0067] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a valve device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 2, the valve device (100) may include a stem (110), a valve housing (120), a seal (130), and an actuator (140).

[0069] The stem (110) is rotatably arranged in the internal space of the valve housing (120). The stem (110) may include a plurality of flow paths (112) that can communicate with a plurality of ports (121, 122, 123) formed in the valve housing (120).

[0070] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the flow of cooling water flowing into multiple ports of a valve housing (120) can be switched by a stem (110) for one valve device, so that a compact structure of a thermal management system using one valve device (100) can be implemented.

[0071] A stem (110) for a valve device may include a stem body (111), a flow path (112), and a communication portion (113).

[0072] The stem body (111) can function as the body of a stem (110) for a valve device. That is, the stem body (111) can be rotatably arranged inside the valve housing (120).

[0073] The flow path (112) may be formed in the stem body (111). A plurality of flow paths (112) may be formed along the circumferential direction of the stem body (111), and may be arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction, for example. Depending on the rotational position of the stem body (111), the flow path (112) may be connected to the through hole (131) of the seal (130).

[0074] The communication portion (113) may be connected to the flow path portion (112). In the present disclosure, the communication portion (113) may be defined as a space inside the stem body (111). Coolant may flow into the communication portion (113) through the flow path portion (112). Depending on the rotational position of the stem body (111), the communication portion (113) may communicate with the ports (121, 122, 123) of the valve housing (120). As a result, coolant may flow into the communication portion (113) from the inlet port (121) of the valve housing (120), and coolant may flow out from the communication portion (113) to the outlet ports (122, 123) of the valve housing (120).

[0075] Although not shown, the stem (110) for the valve device may further include a rotating shaft.

[0076] The rotation shaft is connected to the stem body (111). As the rotation shaft rotates, the stem body (111) can rotate together. The rotation shaft can be connected to an actuator (140). The rotation shaft can include a plurality of gear teeth arranged along the circumferential direction, and the plurality of gear teeth can be engaged with the actuator (140).

[0077] The rotation axis may be positioned at the center of the stem body (111). The center of the stem body may be a point of the stem body (111) spaced at the same distance from the outer surface of the stem body (111). The rotation axis may be positioned to penetrate the upper and lower parts of the stem body (111). The rotation axis may also be formed integrally with the stem body (111).

[0078] The valve housing (120) has an internal space through which coolant flows. The valve housing (120) may be formed with a plurality of ports through which coolant flows in / out. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the coolant may flow into the interior of the valve housing (120) through an inlet port (121) connected to a reservoir tank, and may flow out of the exterior of the valve housing (120) through a first outlet port (122) and / or a second outlet port (123). The plurality of ports (121, 122, 123) may be formed along the circumferential direction of the valve housing (120), and may be arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction, for example. However, in the present disclosure, the functions of the inlet port and the outlet port are not limited by their names alone. That is, the drawing reference numeral 121 may function as an outlet port, and the drawing reference numerals 122 and 123 may function as inlet ports.

[0079] A stem (110) and a seal (130) may be arranged inside the valve housing (120). In the valve device (100) according to the present invention, the flow direction of coolant through the port of the valve housing (120) may be determined depending on the rotational position of the stem (110).

[0080] A seal (130) may be placed between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120). The seal (130) may perform a function of facilitating rotation of the stem (110). In addition, the seal (130) may be placed between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120) to further perform a function of preventing coolant from passing through the space between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120).

[0081] A plurality of through holes (131) corresponding to a plurality of flow paths (112) included in the stem (110) may be formed in the seal (130). Depending on the rotational position of the stem (110), the through holes (131) and the flow paths (112) may be connected, and as a result, the flow of coolant may be secured between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120).

[0082] The actuator (140) controls the rotation of the stem (110). As the stem (110) rotates, at least one of the plurality of flow paths (112) included in the stem (110) can communicate with at least one of the plurality of through holes (131) included in the stem (110). As a result, the coolant inside the stem (110) can sequentially pass through the flow paths (112) and the through holes (131) and flow into the interior of the valve housing (120), and further, the coolant inside the valve housing (120) can sequentially pass through the through holes (131) and the flow paths (112) and flow into the interior of the stem (110).

[0083] The actuator (140) is connected to the rotation axis of the stem (110) and can control the rotation of the stem (110) by controlling the rotation of the rotation axis. The actuator (140) can be installed on the outside of the valve housing (120).

[0084] Figure 3 is a schematic bottom cross-sectional view of a valve device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 3, a valve device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a stem (110), a valve housing (120), and a seal (130). At least one of the components of the valve device (100) illustrated in FIG. 3 (e.g., the stem (110)) has been described above, and therefore, a redundant description thereof will be omitted below.

[0086] The seal (130) may include a through hole (131), a seat seal (132), a rubber seal (133), and a mounting portion (134).

[0087] The through hole (131) can be communicated with the port (121) of the valve housing (120). The through hole (131) can be formed on the inside of the seat seal (132).

[0088] The seat seal (132) may be placed between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120). The seat seal (132) may contact the outer surface of the stem (110) and the inner surface of the valve housing (120), respectively. The seat seal (132) may be formed as an overall circular ring, but its shape is not limited thereto. The seat seal (132) may include an elastic material, for example, a rubber material.

[0089] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the seat seal (132) may change shape when the internal pressure of the valve device (100) increases. In FIG. 3, the direction in which the internal pressure increases is indicated by an arrow, and for example, when coolant passes through the valve housing (120), the internal pressure of the valve device (100) may increase.

[0090] At this time, the sealing force of the seat seal (132) against the outer surface of the stem (110) and the inner surface of the valve housing (120) may increase, and as a result, the gap between the seat seal (132) and the outer surface of the stem (110) and the gap between the seat seal (132) and the inner surface of the valve housing (120) may be eliminated. In the present disclosure, the meaning of “without gap” may mean that the gap between the components is minimized so that a fluid such as coolant does not flow between the components. Accordingly, the possibility that the coolant flows into the stem (110) or flows out of the valve housing (120) through the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) and / or the seal (130) and the stem (110) may be reduced.

[0091] The rubber seal (133) may be placed on the seat seal (132). The rubber seal (133) may be placed between the seat seal (132) and the valve housing (120). The rubber seal (133) may be formed in an overall circular ring shape, but the shape is not limited thereto. The rubber seal (133) may include an elastic material, for example, a rubber material.

[0092] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rubber seal (133) may be deformed in shape when the internal pressure of the valve device (100) increases.

[0093] At this time, the sealing force of the rubber seal (133) against the inner surface of the seat seal (132) and the inner surface of the valve housing (120) may increase, and as a result, the gap between the rubber seal (133) and the inner surface of the seat seal (132) and the gap between the rubber seal (133) and the inner surface of the valve housing (120) may be eliminated. Accordingly, the possibility of coolant flowing into the stem (110) through the space between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) or flowing out of the valve housing (120) may be reduced.

[0094] The seating portion (134) may be formed in the seat seal (132). A rubber seal (133) may be inserted into the seating portion (134). As the rubber seal (133) is inserted into the seating portion (134), at least a portion of the rubber seal (133) may be arranged to be surrounded by the seat seal (132). In other words, the seat seal (132) may spatially partition the through hole (131) and the seating portion (134). Accordingly, the seat seal (132) may have a structure that protects the rubber seal (133) from the internal pressure of the valve device (100). Therefore, the durability of the rubber seal (133) may be improved.

[0095] In addition, since the rubber seal (133) can be seated on the seat seal (132) through the seating portion (134), even if the shape of the seat seal (132) is deformed within a predetermined range as the internal pressure of the valve device (100) increases, the connection between the rubber seal (133) and the seat seal (132) can be safely maintained.

[0096] The mounting portion (134) can be formed by machining a groove of a predetermined depth from one side of the seat seal (132). Here, one side of the seat seal (132) can be the seat seal contact surface (132a) described later. The size of the mounting portion (134) can be greater than or equal to the size of the rubber seal (133).

[0097] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the shape of the mounting portion (134) can be deformed when the internal pressure of the valve device (100) increases.

[0098] At this time, the size of the mounting portion (134) can be reduced. Accordingly, the gap between the seat seal (132) and the rubber seal (133) can be reduced, and as a result, the sealing force between the seat seal (132) and the rubber seal (133) can be increased.

[0099] A plurality of seals (130) may be arranged along the circumferential direction of the stem (110). Similarly, a plurality of seals (130) may be arranged along the circumferential direction of the valve housing (120). That is, a plurality of seat seals (132) and rubber seals (133) may be arranged along the circumferential direction of the valve housing (120), and for example, may be arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction.

[0100] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the shape deformation of the seal (130) when the pressure increases in one area of ​​the valve device (100) (e.g., the port (121) of the valve housing (120)) will be described.

[0101] FIGS. 4A and 4B are enlarged views of part A of FIG. 3 to explain deformation of the seal when the pressure inside the valve device increases.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a valve device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a stem (110), a valve housing (120), and a seal (130). At least one of the components of the valve device (100) illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B (e.g., the seal (130)) has been described above, and therefore, a redundant description thereof will be omitted below.

[0103] Figure 4a illustrates the appearance of the seal (130) before pressure is generated in one area of ​​the valve device (100).

[0104] The valve housing (120) may include an inner surface (120a) and a seal insertion groove (120b).

[0105] The inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) can be positioned to face the seal (130). The inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) can come into contact with the seal (130).

[0106] A seal (130) can be inserted into the seal insertion groove (120b). Specifically, a seat seal (132) can be inserted into the seal insertion groove (120b). The seal insertion groove (120b) can be formed in a shape corresponding to the seat seal (132). As the seal (130) is inserted into the seal insertion groove (120b), the seal (130) can come into contact with the valve housing (120).

[0107] The seat seal (132) may include a seat seal contact surface (132a), a seat seal pressure surface (132b), and a seat seal insertion surface (132c).

[0108] The seat seal contact surface (132a) may be in contact with the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) or may be spaced apart from the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120). The seat seal contact surface (132a) may be a surface of the seat seal (132) facing the valve housing (120). A seating portion (134) may be formed on the seat seal contact surface (132a).

[0109] In one embodiment, when the seat seal contact surface (132a) is spaced apart from the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120), the distance from the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) on the side closer to the through hole (131) with respect to the seating portion (134) may be formed to be equal to or greater than the distance from the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) on the side farther from the through hole (131) with respect to the seating portion (134).

[0110] The seat seal pressure surface (132b) may face the through hole (131). The seat seal pressure surface (132b) may be positioned to face the port (121, shown in FIG. 3) of the valve housing (120). Pressure generated in one area of ​​the valve device (100) may pressurize the seat seal pressure surface (132b). The seat seal pressure surface (132b) may be connected to the seat seal contact surface (132a).

[0111] In one embodiment, a surface facing the stem (110) and disposed opposite the seat seal contact surface (132a) of the seat seal (132) may have a protrusion that protrudes in the form of a band extending to a constant thickness and contacts the stem (110).

[0112] In one embodiment, the seat seal pressure surface (132b) may be connected at an angle toward the direction in which the port of the valve housing (120) extends. In addition, the seat seal pressure surface (132b) may be connected at an angle toward the seat seal contact surface (132a). Accordingly, the seat seal (132) may be implemented with a structure that is easily affected by the pressure generated at the port of the valve housing (120).

[0113] The seat seal insertion surface (132c) may be positioned opposite the seat seal pressing surface (132b). The seat seal insertion surface (132c) may be inserted into the seal insertion groove (120b). The seat seal insertion surface (132c) may be connected to the seat seal contact surface (132a). The seat seal insertion surface (132c) may have the same or similar inclination as the seat seal pressing surface (132b). The seat seal insertion surface (132c) may be connected to the seat seal pressing surface (132b) through a curved surface without an edge.

[0114] The rubber seal (133) may include a rubber seal contact surface (133a).

[0115] The rubber seal contact surface (133a) may be in contact with the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) and one surface of the seat seal (132). The rubber seal contact surface (133a) may be the outer surface of the rubber seal (133) facing the valve housing (120) and the seat seal (132). The rubber seal contact surface (133a) may include a curved surface before its shape is deformed.

[0116] Figure 4b illustrates the appearance of the seal (130) after pressure is generated in one area of ​​the valve device (100).

[0117] When pressure increases in one area of ​​the valve device (100) (e.g., port (121) of the valve housing (120)), the pressure can pressurize the seat seal pressurizing surface (132b) to pressurize the seat seal (132) and the rubber seal (133) together.

[0118] At this time, the sealing force between the seat seal contact surface (132a) and the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) may increase, and as a result, the gap between the seat seal (132) and the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) may be eliminated. Accordingly, the possibility of coolant flowing into the stem (110) through the space between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) or flowing out of the valve housing (120) may be reduced.

[0119] In addition, the contact area between the rubber seal contact surface (133a) and the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) can increase, and as a result, the sealing force between the rubber seal contact surface (133a) and the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) can increase. In this case, the gap between the rubber seal (133) and the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) can also be eliminated. Therefore, the airtightness between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) can be further increased.

[0120] At this time, the contact area between the rubber seal contact surface (133a) and one side of the sheet seal (132) may also increase, and as a result, the adhesive force between the rubber seal contact surface (133a) and the sheet seal (132) may increase. In this case, the gap between the rubber seal (133) and the sheet seal (132) may also disappear. Accordingly, the airtightness between the rubber seal (133) and the sheet seal (132) may be increased. One side of the sheet seal (132) may be the side of the sheet seal (132) facing the mounting portion (134).

[0121] In addition, since the seat seal pressure surface (132b) is pressurized, the overall size of the seating portion (134) can be reduced. Accordingly, the gap between the seat seal (132) and the rubber seal (133) can be reduced, and as a result, the sealing force between the seat seal (132) and the rubber seal (133) can be increased.

[0122] According to the valve device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, as the pressure inside the valve device (100) increases, the sealing between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) and / or the sealing between the seal (130) and the stem (110) can be increased through the structure of the seal (130). Therefore, the valve device (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention does not require a high bonding force or compressive force between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) and / or between the seal (130) and the stem (110), and thus the driving force for the actuator to rotate the stem (110) can be reduced. Accordingly, the valve device (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention can reduce the overall operating cost because it does not need to use a high-spec actuator, and can be implemented with a compact structure.

[0123] Below, comparative examples of the seals shown in FIGS. 3 to 4b will be described.

[0124] Fig. 5 is a bottom cross-sectional view of a comparative example of a valve device, and Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of part B of Fig. 5.

[0125] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a valve device (1000) according to a comparative example may include a stem (110), a valve housing (120), and a seal (1300). The stem (110) and the valve housing (120) illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 are identical or similar to the stem (110) and the valve housing (120) described above, and therefore, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0126] A seal (1300) may be placed between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120). The seal (1300) may perform a function of facilitating rotation of the stem (110). In addition, the seal (1300) may be placed between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120) to further perform a function of preventing coolant from passing through the space between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120).

[0127] A seal (1300) may be formed with a plurality of through holes (131) corresponding to a plurality of flow paths included in the stem (110). Depending on the rotational position of the stem (110), the through holes (131) and the flow paths may be connected, and as a result, the flow of coolant may be secured between the stem (110) and the valve housing (120).

[0128] The seal (1300) may include a sheet seal (1310) and a rubber seal (1320).

[0129] In the comparative example, the seat seal (1310) does not have a groove into which the rubber seal (1320) can be inserted. That is, unlike the embodiment, the seat seal (1310) is not arranged to surround the rubber seal (1320). Accordingly, the seat seal (1310) cannot have a structure that protects the rubber seal (1320) from the internal pressure of the valve device (1000). Therefore, the durability of the rubber seal (1320) may be reduced.

[0130] In addition, since the rubber seal (1320) cannot be seated on the seat seal (1310) through the groove, the connection between the rubber seal (1320) and the seat seal (1310) cannot be completely maintained as the internal pressure of the valve device (100) increases.

[0131] In a comparative example, as illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 6, when pressure increases in one area of ​​the valve device (100), the protrusion (1321) of the rubber seal (1320) may be pressurized. At this time, the contact surface (1321a) of the protrusion (1321) may move in a direction in which the area in contact with the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) decreases, and as a result, the sealing force between the protrusion (1321) of the rubber seal (1320) and the inner surface (120a) of the valve housing (120) may decrease. Accordingly, the airtightness between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) may decrease, and the possibility of coolant passing through the space between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) may increase.

[0132] According to the valve device (1000) according to the comparative example, as the pressure inside the valve device (1000) increases, the sealing between the seal (1300) and the valve housing (120) and / or the sealing between the seal (1300) and the stem (110) cannot be increased through the structure of the seal (1300). Therefore, the comparative example requires a high bonding force or compressive force between the seal (1300) and the valve housing (120) and / or between the seal (1300) and the stem (110), so that the driving force for the actuator to rotate the stem (110) must be increased. Accordingly, the comparative example requires a high-spec actuator, which increases the overall operating cost, and has the problem of being implemented with a complex, multi-stage structure.

[0133] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a seal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Referring to Fig. 7, the seal (130) may include a through hole (131), a sheet seal (132), and a rubber seal (133). At least one of the components of the seal (130) illustrated in Fig. 7 is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the seal (130) illustrated in Figs. 3 to 4b, and therefore, the following description will focus on the differences.

[0135] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the seal (130) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular ring as a whole. That is, based on a cross-sectional line crossing the direction in which the seal (130) extends, the seal (130) may have an overall rectangular cross-section. That is, when viewed from below with reference to FIG. 7, the seal (130) may have an overall rectangular cross-section.

[0136] The seat seal (132) may have a through hole formed on the inside, and the seat seal (132) may have a rectangular cross-section based on a cross-sectional line perpendicular to the direction in which the seal (130) extends.

[0137] The rubber seal (133) can be inserted into a mounting portion (not shown) formed in the seat seal (132). The rubber seal (133) may also have a rectangular cross-section based on a cross-sectional line along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the seal (130) extends. More specifically, the rubber seal (133) may have an overall X-ring shape.

[0138] Also, although not shown, the seal (130) is formed in the shape of an overall circular ring, but may also be formed in the form of an oil seal.

[0139] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the sealing force between the rubber seal and the seat seal and the sealing force between the rubber seal and the valve housing will be described in the case where the seal (130) illustrated in FIG. 7 is used.

[0140] Fig. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing the sealing force between the rubber seal and the seat seal and the sealing force between the rubber seal and the valve housing before pressure is generated inside the valve device, and Fig. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing the sealing force between the rubber seal and the seat seal and the sealing force between the rubber seal and the valve housing when pressure inside the valve device increases.

[0141] Drawing symbol P1 illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 conceptually illustrates the size of the sealing force between the rubber seal (133) and the seat seal (132), and drawing symbol P2 conceptually illustrates the size of the sealing force between the rubber seal (133) and the valve housing (120).

[0142] The rubber seal (133) may have an overall X-ring shape. In this case, the rubber seal (133) may include protrusions (1331) protruding outward. The protrusions (1331) may be located at four corners of the rubber seal (133).

[0143] As can be seen from FIGS. 8 and 9, even when the seal (130) illustrated in FIG. 7 is used, when the pressure inside the valve device increases, the size (P1) of the sealing force between the rubber seal (133) and the seat seal (132) increases, and the size (P2) of the sealing force between the rubber seal (133) and the valve housing (120) also increases.

[0144] Accordingly, even when the seal (130) illustrated in FIG. 7 is used, as the pressure inside the valve device increases, the sealing between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120) can be increased through the structure of the seal (130). Therefore, the valve device (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention does not require a high bonding force or compressive force between the seal (130) and the valve housing (120), and thus the driving force for the actuator to rotate the stem can be reduced. Accordingly, the valve device according to the embodiment of the present invention can reduce the overall operating cost because it does not require a high-spec actuator, and can be implemented with a compact structure.

[0145] In addition, even when the seal (130) illustrated in FIG. 7 is used, the rubber seal (133) may be inserted into the mounting portion (134). As the rubber seal (133) is inserted into the mounting portion (134), at least a portion of the rubber seal (133) may be arranged to be surrounded by the seat seal (132). Accordingly, the seat seal (132) may have a structure that protects the rubber seal (133) from the internal pressure of the valve device (100). Accordingly, the durability of the rubber seal (133) may be improved.

[0146] Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0147] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

[0148] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A valve housing having multiple ports formed through which coolant passes; a stem including a portion of a flow path communicating with the port and rotatably positioned within the valve housing; and a seal disposed between the stem and the valve housing; A valve device, wherein the seal comprises a seat seal that comes into contact with the stem and can come into contact with or be separated from the inner surface of the valve housing, a seating portion formed in the seat seal, and a rubber seal that is inserted into the seating portion and coupled to the seat seal.

2. In paragraph 1, A valve device in which the size of the seating portion decreases as the pressure inside the valve housing increases.

3. In paragraph 1, A valve device, wherein as the pressure inside the valve housing increases, the gap between the seat seal and the rubber seal becomes smaller.

4. In paragraph 1, A valve device, wherein the above-mentioned mounting portion is a groove formed at a predetermined depth from the seat seal contact surface facing the inner surface of the valve housing.

5. In paragraph 1, A valve device, wherein the seat seal is arranged to surround at least a portion of the rubber seal as the rubber seal is inserted into the mounting portion.

6. In paragraph 1, The above seal further includes a through hole communicating with the euro portion, A valve device in which the above seat seal spatially separates the through hole and the mounting portion from each other.

7. In paragraph 1, A valve device, wherein the valve housing includes a seal insertion groove into which at least a portion of the seal is inserted.

8. In paragraph 1, A valve device, wherein the seat seal includes a seat seal contact surface facing the inner surface of the valve housing, a seat seal pressure surface arranged to face the port of the valve housing, and a seat seal insertion surface arranged on the opposite side of the seat seal pressure surface.

9. In paragraph 8, A valve device wherein the above seat seal pressurized surface is connected to the seat seal contact surface at an angle relative to the direction in which the port of the valve housing extends.

10. In paragraph 8, A valve device wherein the above seat seal insertion surface is connected to the seat seal contact surface at an angle relative to the direction in which the port of the valve housing extends.

11. In paragraph 1, A valve device, wherein the rubber seal is disposed on the mounting portion and includes a rubber seal contact surface that comes into contact with the inner surface of the valve housing and one surface of the seat seal.

12. In paragraph 11, A valve device, wherein as the pressure inside the valve housing increases, the contact area between the rubber seal contact surface and one surface of the seat seal increases.

13. In paragraph 1, A valve device, wherein at least one of the seat seal or the rubber seal comprises an elastic material.

14. In paragraph 1, The above rubber seal is a valve device having a circular ring shape.

15. In paragraph 1, The above rubber seal is a valve device having an X-ring shape.

16. In paragraph 1, A valve device in which the above rubber seal has a rectangular cross-section based on a cross-sectional line along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the seal extends, and has a protrusion protruding outward.

17. In paragraph 1, A valve device in which the above seat seal and the above rubber seal are arranged in multiple numbers along the circumferential direction of the valve housing.

18. In paragraph 1, A valve device further comprising an actuator for controlling rotation of the stem.

19. In paragraph 1, A valve device, wherein one side of the seat seal facing the stem has a protrusion that protrudes in a belt shape and comes into contact with the stem.

20. In paragraph 6, A valve device, wherein, when a surface of the seat seal facing the inner surface of the valve housing is separated from the inner surface of the valve housing, a distance from the inner surface of the valve housing on a side closer to the through hole based on the seating portion is formed to be equal to or greater than a distance from the inner surface of the valve housing on a side farther from the through hole based on the seating portion.

21. In paragraph 17, A valve device in which the above seat seal and the above rubber seal are arranged at equal intervals.

22. In paragraph 1, A valve device in which the above seat seal and the above rubber seal are arranged at equal intervals in the same number as the plurality of ports.

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