Integrated Multi-Way Valve for Compact Fluid Circuit Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-way valves require multiple valves (e.g., 3/2-way or 4/2-way) to control complex fluid systems in vehicles, leading to increased assembly effort, costs, and installation space.
Innovation Solution
A multi-way valve design with a valve body having three connecting channels on each level, allowing for the control of multiple external flow channels with a single valve, reducing the need for multiple valves and simplifying the design and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conventional multi-way valves are used to control complex fluid systems, then the control capability is sufficient, but the assembly effort, costs, and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single integrated multi-way valve body with multiple connecting channels (e.g., 4/2-way, 5/2-way, or 3/2-way valve functions in one unit). This merging of previously separate valves into one component directly reduces the number of individual valves needed while maintaining full control capability over complex fluid systems, thereby resolving the contradiction between control capability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body is designed with multiple connecting channels and sealing elements that enable a single valve to perform multiple functions simultaneously - controlling different fluid circuits, switching between heating and cooling modes, and managing multiple actuators. This multi-functionality allows one valve to replace several conventional valves, reducing assembly effort and installation space while preserving comprehensive control capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conventional multi-way valves are used, then the control capability is sufficient, but the assembly effort and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple valve functions into a single valve body with pre-configured connecting channels and sealing elements, the patent reduces the number of assembly operations required. Instead of assembling and sealing multiple separate valves, the manufacturer produces one integrated component with all necessary flow paths and sealing arrangements already in place, significantly reducing assembly effort and associated costs
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body is designed with modular connecting channels and sealing elements that can be manufactured separately and then assembled into the final valve. This segmentation allows for specialized manufacturing of individual components using optimal processes, followed by precise assembly, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining the integrated functionality needed for comprehensive control
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conventional multi-way valves are used, then the control capability is sufficient, but the installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple valve functions into a single compact valve body, dramatically reducing the space required for installation. Instead of requiring separate mounting locations for multiple conventional valves, the integrated design fits into a single space, making it ideal for applications with limited installation room while still providing comprehensive control over complex fluid systems
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4a~7b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a multi-way valve (2), comprising a housing (4) having a plurality of housing openings (6 to 18; A top to G), each for flow-conductive connection to an external flow channel for a fluid, and a valve body (22), arranged in the housing (4) so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis (20), for flow-conductive connection of at least two of the housing openings (6 to 18; A top to G) of the housing (4), wherein a seal (24) having seal openings (26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) corresponding to the housing openings (6 to 18; A top to G) in the housing (4) for sealing the flow-conductive connections from the open environment is arranged between the housing (4) and the valve body (22), and wherein the valve body (22) has a first plane (40) having at least one first connection channel (42, 44, 46; 42, 46) and a second plane (48), arranged parallel to the first plane (40), having at least one second connection channel (50, 52, 54), wherein the connection channels (42, 44, 46, 50, 52, 54; 42, 46, 50, 52, 54) are separate from each other in respect of flow and can be flow-conductively connected to at least two of the housing openings (6 to 18; A top to G) of the housing (4) in each case by means of a rotation of the valve body (22) to a previously specified rotary position of the valve body (22).