Integrated Multi-Way Valve for Compact Thermal Fluid Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing new energy thermal management systems require multiple control valves for fluid control, which occupy significant space, are cumbersome to install, and increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-way valve with a valve body and rotatable valve core, featuring nine openings and channels that form four flow passages with five working modes, integrating functions of two four-way valves and a three-way valve, allowing for compact and cost-effective installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control valves are used for fluid control in thermal management systems, then the control functionality is achieved, but the installation space requirement increases and installation convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control valve functions into a single multi-way valve body with integrated flow paths. The valve body includes multiple inlets and outlets with internal flow channels that can simultaneously control multiple fluid circuits, replacing what would traditionally require separate control valves. This merging reduces the number of individual valve components and consolidates them into one compact unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-way valve is designed with universal functionality to control multiple fluid circuits through a single device. The valve body incorporates multiple flow paths and control mechanisms that can simultaneously or independently regulate different fluid streams, making one valve perform the work of multiple valves. This multi-functionality addresses the space constraint by eliminating the need for multiple separate valve installations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control valves are used for fluid control, then the control functionality is achieved, but the installation convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple valve functions into a single multi-way valve assembly, reducing the number of separate components that need to be individually installed. The unified valve body with integrated flow channels and control mechanisms simplifies the installation process by requiring fewer mounting operations, connections, and alignments compared to installing multiple separate control valves.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control valves are used, then the control functionality is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple control valve functions into a single multi-way valve body, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation decreases material costs, manufacturing complexity, and assembly labor. The integrated design allows for more efficient production processes and reduces the bill of materials compared to sourcing and assembling multiple separate control valves.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-way valve is provided. The multi-way valve includes a valve body and a valve core rotatably installed in the valve body. The valve body is provided with nine openings, the valve core is provided with a plurality of channels for matching with the nine openings, and the nine openings are capable of matching with the plurality of channels of the valve core to form four flow passages, the four flow passages of the multi-way valve includes at least five working modes, and the valve core is capable of rotating in the valve body to realize a switching of the multiple working modes.