Integrated valve device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid circulation circuits, such as refrigeration cycle apparatuses, require multiple control valves to switch between cooling and heating modes, leading to increased complexity and cost due to the need for numerous valve mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An integrated valve device that combines a heating expansion valve and a three-way valve within a single unit, utilizing a shaft member to interlock the valve bodies and adjust flow rates, allowing for mode switching with reduced valve count and simplified operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control valves are used to switch between cooling and heating modes, then the flow path control functionality is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control valve functions into a single integrated valve body that houses both a flow rate adjustment valve and a flow passage switching valve. This merging of previously separate valve mechanisms into one unified device directly reduces the total number of control valves while maintaining the ability to control both flow rate and flow path switching between cooling and heating modes
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated valve body is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it controls flow rate through the flow rate adjustment valve and switches flow paths between different outlets through the flow passage switching valve. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate valves, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control valves are used to switch between cooling and heating modes, then the flow path control functionality is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple valve functions into a single integrated valve body, the patent reduces the total number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This consolidation reduces material costs, manufacturing complexity, and assembly operations, thereby lowering overall production cost while maintaining the required flow path control functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control valves are used, then the flow path switching capability is achieved, but the compactness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the flow rate adjustment valve and flow passage switching valve are both housed within the same valve body. The valves are arranged concentrically or in a compact configuration that allows one valve mechanism to be positioned within or adjacent to another, maximizing space utilization and reducing the overall volume occupied by the valve assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated valve includes a body portion, a flow rate adjustment valve body, a flow passage switching valve body, and a shaft member. The body portion has formed therein a plurality of passages. The flow rate adjustment valve body is provided inside the body portion that adjusts a flow rate of fluid. The flow passage switching valve body is provided inside the body portion configured to switch a flow path of the predetermined fluid in the fluid circulation circuit, the flow passage switching valve body being switchable between distinct communication states. The shaft member is provided inside the body portion that interlocks the flow rate adjustment valve body and the flow passage switching valve body.