Switching device

Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of an air vent valve on a thermal circuit increases the number of components and complicates the configuration of the circuit, necessitating additional connectors.

Innovation Solution

A switching device with an integrated air vent valve accommodated in a case, which includes separate spaces for the switching valve and the air vent valve, reducing the need for external connectors and simplifying the circuit configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an air vent valve is provided on a thermal circuit connected to the switching device, then air accumulation in the heat medium can be vented, but the number of components increases and the circuit configuration becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveair venting capabilityVSAvoidcircuit configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The air vent valve is integrated into the case of the switching device, merging two separate components (switching device and air vent valve) into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate connectors and reduces circuit complexity while maintaining the air venting function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The case of the switching device is designed to serve multiple functions: it not only houses the switching valve but also accommodates the air vent valve. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of components needed in the thermal circuit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If an air vent valve is provided on a thermal circuit connected to the switching device, then air accumulation in the heat medium can be vented, but additional connectors are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveair venting capabilityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The air vent valve is integrated into the case of the switching device, merging two separate components (switching device and air vent valve) into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate connectors and reduces circuit complexity while maintaining the air venting function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The case of the switching device is designed to serve multiple functions: it not only houses the switching valve but also accommodates the air vent valve. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of components needed in the thermal circuit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20260063217A1Switching device

Publication Date: 2026.03.05 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK

AI summary

A switching device includes a spool valve that switches flow channels of a heat medium, a case that accommodates the spool valve, and an air vent valve. The case has a first space and a second space formed therein, the spool valve being accommodated in the first space, the second space communicating with the first space. The air vent valve is inserted into the second space.