Rotary Multi-Layer Valve for Heat Medium Flow Path Switching
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heat management systems lack an efficient mechanism to switch the flow path of a heat medium effectively.
Innovation Solution
A switching device comprising a valve body unit with rotatable disc-shaped valve bodies and grooves that allow for efficient switching of the flow path by altering the states of overlap between openings and through holes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional switching valve is used to switch the flow path of a heat medium, then the flow path can be switched, but the switching efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body is divided into multiple independent disc-shaped valve bodies (first, second, and third valve bodies), each with specific groove patterns. This segmentation allows each valve body to control specific flow paths independently, enabling efficient multi-way flow switching without requiring a single complex valve structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-layer axial arrangement of valve bodies stacked in the axial direction, adding a dimensional aspect to the flow control mechanism. By stacking valve bodies and using through-holes that penetrate axially, the system achieves complex flow path switching in a compact axial space, improving switching efficiency without excessive complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valve bodies are stacked to improve flow path switching capability, then flow path versatility is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each disc-shaped valve body serves multiple functions: the first valve body with partition walls creates radial grooves for flow distribution, the second valve body with fan-shaped grooves provides additional flow paths, and the third valve body with through-holes enables axial flow penetration. This multi-functionality allows a single stacked assembly to achieve complex multi-way flow switching without requiring even more components.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve bodies are stacked in an axial arrangement where the third valve body is positioned between the first and second valve bodies. The through-holes of the third valve body align with grooves in the other valve bodies to create integrated flow paths, effectively nesting functional elements in a compact configuration that enhances versatility while controlling complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The switching device includes a ten-way valve. The ten-way valve includes a lower body (first valve body), an upper body (second valve body), and a drive plate (third valve body). The switching device rotates each of the upper body and the drive plate relative to the lower body to switch an overlapping state in the Z direction (axial direction) between an opening (first opening) of each of the plurality of grooves (first grooves) of the lower body, a groove (second groove) of the upper body, and a through hole of the drive plate.