阅读说明：本技术 流路切换装置 (Flow path switching device ) 是由 福井康晃 梯伸治 北村圭一 高桥恒吏 桥村信幸 真野贵光 于 2020-02-19 设计创作，主要内容包括：流路切换装置(1)具备第一层侧流路形成部(10)、第二层侧流路形成部(15)以及驱动部(30),并切换供流体循环的流体回路(50)的流路结构。在第一层侧流路形成部(10)形成有与流体回路(50)连接的第一层侧流路(11)。在第二层侧流路形成部(15)形成有第二层侧流路(16),该第二层侧流路在多个部位与第一层侧流路(11)连通,并且与流体回路(50)连接。驱动部(30)至少联动地驱动多个阀芯部(73)。多个阀芯部(73)配置于第二层侧流路(16)的内部,调整通过将第一层侧流路(11)与第二层侧流路(16)连通的连通路的流体的流量。而且,流路切换装置(1)使第一层侧流路形成部(11)、第二层侧流路形成部(16)以及驱动部(30)依次层叠配置。(The flow path switching device (1) is provided with a first layer side flow path forming part (10), a second layer side flow path forming part (15), and a driving part (30), and switches the flow path structure of a fluid circuit (50) for circulating fluid. A first-stage-side channel (11) connected to the fluid circuit (50) is formed in the first-stage-side channel forming section (10). A second-layer-side flow channel (16) that communicates with the first-layer-side flow channel (11) at a plurality of locations and is connected to a fluid circuit (50) is formed in the second-layer-side flow channel forming section (15). The drive unit (30) drives at least the plurality of spool units (73) in an interlocking manner. The plurality of valve body sections (73) are disposed inside the second-layer side flow path (16), and adjust the flow rate of the fluid passing through a communication path that connects the first-layer side flow path (11) and the second-layer side flow path (16). The flow path switching device (1) is configured such that a first-layer-side flow path forming section (11), a second-layer-side flow path forming section (16), and a drive section (30) are arranged in a stacked manner in this order.)

1. A flow path switching device for switching a flow path structure of a fluid circuit (50) through which a fluid circulates, the flow path switching device comprising:

a first-stage-side flow-path formation unit (10) in which a first-stage-side flow path (11) connected to the fluid circuit is formed;

a second-layer-side flow-path forming section (15) in which a second-layer-side flow path (16) that communicates with the first-layer-side flow path at a plurality of locations and that is connected to the fluid circuit is formed; and

a drive unit (30) that drives at least a plurality of valve bodies (73) that adjust the flow rate of the fluid passing through communication passages (75a, 75b) that communicate the first-layer side flow path with the second-layer side flow path in an interlocking manner,

the valve body is disposed inside the second-layer side flow passage,

the first-layer-side flow channel forming section, the second-layer-side flow channel forming section, and the driving section are arranged in a stacked manner in this order.

2. The flow path switching device according to claim 1,

the first-layer-side flow channel forming section is configured such that the first-layer-side flow channel is formed in a groove shape on one surface side of a block-shaped main body member (5),

the second-layer-side flow channel forming section is configured to form the second-layer-side flow channel in a groove shape on the other surface side of the main body member located on the back side of the surface on which the first-layer-side flow channel is formed,

one surface side of the main body part is sealed by a first layer side cover part (20),

the other surface side of the main body member is sealed by a second layer side cover member (25).

3. The flow path switching device according to claim 2,

a flow path resistance section (12) that is formed so as to cross the groove-shaped flow path and changes the flow path cross-sectional area of the flow path is arranged inside the flow path of the first-layer-side flow path and the second-layer-side flow path,

the flow path resistance section has a joint surface (12b) that connects the surfaces of the main body members so as to cross the flow path and is joined to the first-layer side cover member or the second-layer side cover member.

4. The flow path switching device according to claim 3,

the flow path resistance section holds a functional component of the fluid circuit inside the flow path.

5. The flow path switching device according to claim 3 or 4,

the plurality of flow path resistance portions are arranged in the same straight flow path of the first-layer-side flow path and the second-layer-side flow path.

6. The flow path switching device according to any one of claims 2 to 5,

the second layer side cover member has a plurality of through holes (26) that are penetrated by a rotating shaft (74a) of the valve body portion,

a motor (32) as a driving source of the valve body portion and a transmission mechanism (33) configured to be capable of transmitting driving force of the motor to the rotary shaft are mounted on the second layer side cover member.

7. The flow path switching device according to any one of claims 2 to 6,

positioning portions (17, 27) for positioning the second layer side cover member with respect to the main body member are formed on the second layer side cover member and on the other surface side of the main body member.

8. The flow path switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 7,

an insulating section (13) is disposed between the channels disposed close to each other in the first-layer-side channel and the second-layer-side channel, and reduces heat transfer between the channels.

9. The flow path switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 8,

the valve body is arranged in the second-stage side flow passage so that the flow rate of the fluid flowing into the two communication passages (75a, 75b) can be adjusted,

one of the two communication paths is increased in opening degree and the other is decreased in opening degree.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a flow path switching device for switching a flow path structure in a fluid circuit.

Background

Conventionally, in a fluid circuit, a plurality of switching valves are arranged in order to realize a flow path structure according to the application. For example, in the water supply pump device described in patent document 1, first to fifth switching valves are used to switch the flow path structure.

In patent document 1, the flow path structure is switched to five modes by controlling the operations of the first to fifth switching valves.

Documents of the prior art

Patent document

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open No. 2014-37716

Here, in patent document 1, the first to fifth switching valves are connected by a plurality of pipes and joints, respectively. Therefore, the structure for switching the flow path becomes large, and the space and weight of the entire apparatus are affected.

In addition, in patent document 1, a driving unit for switching operation is required for each of the first to fifth switching valves. Therefore, in consideration of the drive section of each switching valve, patent document 1 has room for further improvement with respect to the space and weight of the structure for switching the flow path.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention has been made in view of these problems, and an object thereof is to provide a flow path switching device capable of switching a flow path structure in a fluid circuit with a compact structure.

A flow channel switching device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first-layer-side flow channel forming section, a second-layer-side flow channel forming section, and a driving section, and switches a flow channel structure of a fluid circuit through which a fluid circulates.

The first-stage-side flow channel forming section is formed with a first-stage-side flow channel connected to the fluid circuit. The second-layer-side flow passage forming section is provided with a second-layer-side flow passage that communicates with the first-layer-side flow passage at a plurality of locations and is connected to the fluid circuit.

The driving portion drives the plurality of spool portions at least in an interlocking manner. The plurality of valve bodies are disposed inside the second-stage side flow passage, and regulate the flow rate of the fluid passing through the communication passage that communicates the first-stage side flow passage with the second-stage side flow passage. The flow path switching device is configured by stacking the first-layer-side flow path forming section, the second-layer-side flow path forming section, and the driving section in this order.

In this way, since the first-layer-side flow channel forming section, the second-layer-side flow channel forming section, and the driving section are arranged in a stacked manner, the functions of the piping, the joint, and the valve for switching the flow channel structure of the fluid circuit can be integrated, and a more compact structure can be realized.

Further, since the first-layer-side flow passage forming section, the second-layer-side flow passage forming section, and the driving section are arranged in a stacked manner, the plurality of valve bodies are arranged at positions close to each other. The driving unit drives the plurality of spool units at least in an interlocking manner. Therefore, according to the flow path switching device, compared to the case where a drive source such as a motor is disposed in each valve body portion, the flow path structure of the fluid circuit can be switched with a compact and lightweight structure.

Drawings

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

fig. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a flow path switching device of a first embodiment;

fig. 2 is a side view of the flow path switching device of the first embodiment;

fig. 3 is an overall configuration diagram of the heat medium circuit of the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an explanatory view showing the structure of the first-stage-side flow path of the first embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an explanatory view showing the structure of the second-layer side flow path in the first embodiment;

fig. 6 is an explanatory view of the second layer side cover member and the fixed cover of the first embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along section VII-VII in FIGS. 4 and 5;

fig. 8 is an explanatory view of a flow path resistance section in the flow path switching device of the first embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of section IX-IX in FIGS. 4 and 5;

fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a heat medium three-way valve in the flow path switching device;

fig. 11 is an explanatory view showing a valve body portion of the heat medium three-way valve in a fully open state;

fig. 12 is an explanatory view showing a valve core portion of the heat medium three-way valve in a fully closed state;

fig. 13 is an explanatory view showing a valve body portion of the heat medium three-way valve in a flow rate distribution state;

fig. 14 is a graph showing a relationship between the first opening degree and the second opening degree of the heat medium three-way valve;

fig. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a structure of a heat insulating portion in the flow path switching device;

FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram of a flow channel switching device according to a second embodiment;

fig. 17 is an overall configuration diagram of a heat medium circuit of the second embodiment;

FIG. 18 is an explanatory view showing the configuration of the first-stage-side flow path of the flow path switching device according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 19 is an explanatory view showing the structure of the second-layer side flow path of the flow path switching device of the second embodiment;

fig. 20 is a sectional view of a flow path resistance section in the flow path switching device relating to the third embodiment;

fig. 21 is a sectional view of section XXI-XXI in fig. 20.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to portions corresponding to the matters described in the previous embodiments, and the redundant description may be omitted. In the case where only a part of the structure in each embodiment is described, other embodiments described above can be applied to other parts of the structure. Not only can portions explicitly showing that specific combinations can be combined with each other in each embodiment be combined with each other, but also embodiments can be partially combined with each other even if not explicitly shown as long as the combination does not cause a particular obstacle.

(first embodiment)

First, a schematic configuration of a flow channel switching device 1 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in fig. 1, the flow path switching device 1 of the first embodiment constitutes a part of a heat medium circuit 50 as a fluid circuit, and switches the flow path structure in the heat medium circuit 50 as will be described later.

The heat medium circuit 50 according to the first embodiment is mounted on an electric vehicle that obtains driving force for traveling from a motor generator. In an electric vehicle, the heat medium circuit 50 is used for air conditioning the vehicle interior, which is a space to be air-conditioned, and for temperature adjustment of a vehicle-mounted device (for example, the heat generating device 54), which is a temperature adjustment target. That is, in the electric vehicle, the heat medium circuit 50 of the first embodiment constitutes a part of the vehicle air conditioner with a temperature adjustment function of the in-vehicle equipment.

In the heat medium circuit 50 of the first embodiment, the heat generating device 54 that generates heat during operation is targeted for temperature adjustment. The heat generating device 54 includes a plurality of constituent devices. Specific examples of the components of the heat generating device 54 include a motor generator, a power control unit (so-called PCU), and a control device for an advanced driving assistance system (so-called ADAS).

The motor generator outputs driving force for traveling by being supplied with electric power, and generates regenerative electric power at the time of deceleration of the vehicle or the like. The PCU is a component in which a transformer, a frequency converter, and the like are integrated in order to appropriately control electric power supplied to each in-vehicle device.

As shown in fig. 1, the flow path switching device 1 of the first embodiment is connected to constituent devices of the heat medium circuit 50. Specifically, in the flow switching device 1, the heater core 51, the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52, the heating device 53, the heat generating equipment 54, the radiator 55, the first water pump 56a, and the second water pump 56b are connected via the heat medium pipes.

As shown in fig. 2, the flow channel switching device 1 includes a first-layer side cover member 20, a body member 5, a second-layer side cover member 25, and a driving unit 30. In the flow switching device 1, the first-layer side cover member 20, the body member 5, the second-layer side cover member 25, and the driving unit 30 are sequentially stacked in the stacking direction L.

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, in the flow path switching device 1 of the first embodiment, the body member 5 is formed of a synthetic resin in a rectangular parallelepiped block shape. A groove-like first-layer-side flow passage 11 is formed on one surface (upper surface in fig. 2) side of the main body member 5, and one surface side of the first-layer-side flow passage 1 is open.

As shown in fig. 2, 7, and the like, the first-layer side cover member 20 is joined to one surface of the main body member 5, whereby the first-layer side flow path 11 functions as a conduit through which the heat medium of the heat medium circuit 50 flows. Therefore, the portion of the body member 5 constituting the one surface side constitutes the first-layer-side flow-path forming portion 10.

A groove-shaped second-layer-side flow passage 16 is formed on the other surface (lower surface in fig. 2) of the main body member 5 located on the back side of the one surface, and the other surface of the second-layer-side flow passage 16 is open. As shown in fig. 2 and 7, the second-layer-side flow path 16 functions as a heat medium passage through which the heat medium of the heat medium circuit 50 flows, by joining the second-layer-side cover member 25 or the like to the other surface of the main body member 5. Therefore, the portion of the body member 5 constituting the other surface side constitutes the second-layer-side flow-path forming portion 15.

Further, a plurality of valve bodies 73 are disposed inside the second-stage side flow passage 16. In the first embodiment, the valve bodies 73 of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, which will be described later, are disposed inside the second-stage side flow passage 16. Each valve body 73 switches the flow of the heat medium in the first-layer side flow passage 11 and the second-layer side flow passage 16, and changes the flow passage structure of the heat medium circuit 50.

In the body member 5, communication portions are formed at a plurality of predetermined locations, and the communication portions are formed to penetrate one surface side and the other surface side. The communicating portion connects the first-layer-side flow path 11 and the second-layer-side flow path 16 so as to allow the heat medium to flow therethrough, and includes a first communicating portion 40a, a second communicating portion 40b, and the like, which will be described later.

As shown in fig. 2, a plurality of connection ports are formed in the side surface of the main body member 5, and the connection ports are connected to the heat medium pipes of the heat medium circuit 50. The flow channel switching device 1 of the first embodiment has the first to tenth connection ports 35a to 35j, and is connected to the constituent devices of the heat medium circuit 50 via heat medium pipes.

As shown in fig. 2, the first-layer side cover member 20 is a synthetic resin plate-like member and is formed to have the same size as one surface side of the main body member 5. The first-layer side cover member 20 is joined to one surface of the main body member 5 (the upper surface of the main body member 5 in fig. 2) by vibration welding, laser welding, or the like and hermetically seals the same. Thus, the open portions of the groove-like first-layer side passages 11 are closed by the first-layer side cover members 20, and therefore, the first-layer side passages 11 function as conduits through which the heating medium flows.

Similarly to the first-layer side cover member 20, the second-layer side cover member 25 is a synthetic resin plate-like member. The second layer side cover member 25 is joined to and hermetically seals the other surface of the body member 5 (the lower surface of the body member 5 in fig. 2) by vibration welding, laser welding, or the like. Thus, the open portion of the groove-like second layer side passage 16 is closed by the second layer side cover 25, and therefore, the second layer side passage 16 functions as a pipe through which the heat medium flows.

As shown in fig. 2 and the like, the drive unit 30 is disposed on the other surface side of the block-shaped body member 5 via the second layer side cover member 25. The drive unit 30 is configured to accommodate the electromagnetic motor 32, the transmission mechanism 33, and the drive control unit 34 in the casing 31. The housing 31 protects the electromagnetic motor 32, the transmission mechanism 33, and the drive control unit 34 from dust and water.

The electromagnetic motor 32 has a drive shaft 32a driven by the supply of electric power, and functions as a drive source for each valve body 73. In the drive section 30, an electromagnetic motor 32 is attached to the second layer side cover member 25 so as to be positioned at a predetermined position inside the housing 31.

The transmission mechanism 33 is a link mechanism including a gear 33a, and is configured to be able to transmit the driving force generated by the electromagnetic motor 32 to each valve body portion 73. The gear 33a is disposed at an end of the rotary shaft 74a of the valve body 73. Therefore, the driving force of the electromagnetic motor 32 is transmitted to the gear 33a and rotates the gear 33a, whereby the valve body portion 73 can be rotated about the rotation shaft 74 a.

Further, since the transmission mechanism 33 is constituted by a link mechanism, the transmission manner of the driving force to each valve body portion 73 can be appropriately switched. For example, the transmission mechanism 33 can transmit the driving force so that the two spool portions 73 operate in conjunction. The transmission mechanism 33 can also transmit a driving force to either one of the two valve body portions 73.

Further, in the drive section 30, the respective components of the transmission mechanism 33 are attached to the second layer side cover member 25 so as to be positioned at predetermined positions in the housing 31.

The drive control unit 34 is an electronic control unit for controlling the operation of the flow switching device 1. Specifically, the drive control unit 34 includes a microcontroller, and controls the operations of the electromagnetic motor 32 and the transmission mechanism 33 based on a control signal from a control device, not shown.

Next, the structure of the first-layer side flow channel 11 and the second-layer side flow channel 16 in the first embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 3 to 5. As described above, the heat medium circuit 50 is a heat medium circulation circuit through which cooling water serving as a heat medium circulates. In the first embodiment, the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50 is switched as will be described later in order to perform air conditioning in the vehicle interior and cooling of the in-vehicle equipment. As the heat medium circulating through the heat medium circuit 50, an ethylene glycol aqueous solution as a non-compressible fluid can be used.

As shown in fig. 1 and the like, the first connection port 35a is connected to a suction port of the first water pump 56a via a heat medium pipe. Here, as shown in fig. 4, the first connection port 35a constitutes one end portion of the first-stage-side flow path 11.

The first water pump 56a is an electric pump whose rotational speed (i.e., pressure-feed capacity) is controlled based on a control voltage output from a control device (not shown). The discharge port of the first water pump 56a is connected to the heat medium inlet of the heat medium passage 52b in the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52 via a heat medium pipe. Therefore, the first water pump 56a pressure-feeds the heat medium to the heat medium passage 52b of the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52.

The water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52 is a constituent device of the heat medium circuit 50 and is also one of constituent devices of the refrigeration cycle 90. The water refrigerant heat exchanger 52 includes a refrigerant passage 52a through which the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle 90 flows, and a heat medium passage 52b through which the heat medium of the heat medium circuit 50 flows.

The water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52 is formed of the same metal (aluminum alloy in the first embodiment) having excellent heat conductivity, and the respective constituent members are integrated by brazing. This allows the refrigerant flowing through the refrigerant passage 52a and the heat medium flowing through the heat medium passage 52b to exchange heat with each other.

The water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52 is switched between a case of functioning as a radiator (so-called water-cooled condenser) and a case of functioning as a heat absorber (so-called chiller) by changing the cycle configuration of the refrigeration cycle 90.

For example, when the cycle configuration of the refrigeration cycle 90 is switched so that the high-pressure refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle 90 flows through the refrigerant passage 52a, the high-pressure refrigerant functions as a radiator for radiating heat of the high-pressure refrigerant to the heat medium of the heat medium passage 52 b. In this case, the water refrigerant heat exchanger 52 can heat the heat medium with the heat of the high-pressure refrigerant.

On the other hand, when the low-pressure refrigerant whose cycle configuration is switched to the refrigeration cycle 90 flows through the refrigerant passage 52a, the low-pressure refrigerant functions as a heat absorber for absorbing heat of the heat medium flowing through the heat medium passage 52 b. In this case, the water refrigerant heat exchanger 52 can cool the heat medium using the low-pressure refrigerant as a cold source.

The heat medium outlet side of the water refrigerant heat exchanger 52 is connected to the second connection port 35b via a heat medium pipe. As shown in fig. 4, the second connection port 35b constitutes one end of the first-stage-side channel 11.

The third connection port 35c constituting one end of the first-stage-side channel 11 is connected to the heating device 53. The heating device 53 has a heating passage and a heat generating portion, and heats the heat medium flowing into the heater core 51 by electric power supplied from a control device not shown. The amount of heat generated by the heating device 53 can be arbitrarily adjusted by controlling the power from the control device.

The heating passage of the heating device 53 is a passage through which a heating medium flows. The heat generating portion is supplied with electric power to heat the heat medium flowing through the heating passage. As the heat generating portion, a PTC element or a nichrome wire can be specifically used.

The outlet side of the heating passage in the heating device 53 is connected to the heat medium inlet side of the heater core 51 via a heat medium pipe. The heater core 51 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat medium and the air blown from an indoor air blower, not shown.

The heater core 51 can heat the air by using, as a heat source, heat of a heat medium heated by the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52, the heating device 53, and the like. In a case of an indoor air conditioning unit mounted on an electric vehicle, the heater core 51 is disposed on the downstream side of an indoor evaporator constituting the refrigeration cycle 90. The heat medium outlet side of the heater core 51 is connected to the fourth connection port 35d via a heat medium pipe. The fourth connection port 35d constitutes one end portion of the second-layer side flow path 16.

As shown in fig. 4, the fifth connection port 35e constitutes one end of the first-stage-side channel 11. The fifth connection port 35e is connected to the heat medium passage 54a of the heat generating device 54 via a heat medium pipe. The heat medium passage 54a of the heat generating device 54 is formed in an outer shell portion forming a housing of the heat generating device 54, an interior of the housing, or the like.

The heat medium passage 54a of the heat generating device 54 is a heat medium passage for adjusting the temperature of the heat generating device 54 by flowing a heat medium. In other words, the heat medium passage 54a of the heat generating device 54 functions as a temperature adjusting unit that adjusts the temperature of the heat generating device 54 by heat exchange with the heat medium circulating in the heat medium circuit 50.

The other end side of the heat medium passage 54a in the heat generating device 54 is connected to the sixth connection port 35f via a heat medium pipe. The sixth connection port 35f constitutes one end of the first-stage-side flow path 11.

As shown in fig. 4, the seventh connection port 35g constitutes one end of the first-stage-side channel 11. The seventh connection port 35g is connected to the suction port of the second water pump 56b via a heat medium pipe. The second water pump 56b is an electric pump that pumps the heat medium to circulate the heat medium circuit 50. The basic structure of the second water pump 56b is the same as that of the first water pump 56 a. The discharge port side of the second water pump 56b is connected to the eighth connection port 35h via a heat medium pipe. The eighth connection port 35h constitutes one end of the first-stage-side flow path 11.

The ninth connection port 35i is connected to one side of the heat medium inflow/outflow port of the heat sink 55 via a heat medium pipe. The ninth connection port 35i is one end of the second-layer side flow path 16. The radiator 55 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between the heat medium flowing inside and the outside air. Therefore, the radiator 55 radiates heat of the heat medium passing through the inside to the outside.

The radiator 55 is disposed on the front side in the drive device room. Therefore, the radiator 55 may be integrally formed with the outdoor heat exchanger. The other side of the heat medium inflow/outflow port of the heat sink 55 is connected to the tenth connection port 35j via a heat medium pipe. The tenth connection port 35j constitutes one end portion of the first-stage-side flow path 11.

As shown in fig. 3 and 4, the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the second connection port 35b is connected to the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the third connection port 35c and the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the outlet of the first heat medium check valve 60a, and constitutes a first connection portion 80 a.

As shown in fig. 3 and 5, the second-layer side flow path 16 extending from the fourth connection port 35d is connected to the inlet side of the first heat medium three-way valve 70 a. The first heat medium three-way valve 70a is a three-way flow rate adjustment valve, and is capable of adjusting the flow rate ratio of the heat medium flow rate flowing out from one side of the outlet port to the heat medium flow rate flowing out from the other side of the outlet port, among the heat mediums flowing out from the heater core 51. The operation of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a is controlled by controlling the driving unit 30 by a control device, not shown.

Further, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a can cause the entire flow rate of the heat medium flowing out of the heater core 51 to flow out to either one of the two outflow ports. Thereby, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a can switch the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50.

While the heat medium flowing in from the inlet of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a flows toward the outlet inside the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the heat medium flows out from the second-layer side flow passage 16 to the first-layer side flow passage 11 through the communication passage.

The first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from one of the outlet ports of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a is connected to the other three first-stage-side flow paths 11, and constitutes a second connection portion 80 b. As shown in fig. 3, the second connection portion 80b includes the first-stage-side flow path 11 on one side of the outlet of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the first-stage-side flow path 11 on the inlet side of the first heat medium check valve 60a, the first-stage-side flow path 11 on the outlet side of the third heat medium check valve 60c, and the first-stage-side flow path 11 on the first connection port 35a side.

As shown in fig. 3 and 4, the first heat medium check valve 60a allows the heat medium to flow from the second connection portion 80b to the first connection portion 80a, and prohibits the heat medium from flowing from the first connection portion 80a to the second connection portion 80 b.

The first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the other of the outlet ports of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a is connected to the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the fifth connection port 35e and the first-stage-side flow path 11 having the first communication portion 40a formed therein, thereby forming a fourth connection portion 80 d.

Here, the first communicating portion 40a is formed so as to penetrate the block-shaped body member 5 in the stacking direction L, and communicates the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16. Therefore, the heat medium flows between the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16 through the first communication portion 40 a.

As shown in fig. 3 and 5, the heat medium having passed through the first communicating portion 40a reaches the inlet of the second heat medium three-way valve 70b through the second-layer side flow path 16. The second heat medium three-way valve 70b is a three-way flow rate adjustment valve, and is capable of adjusting the flow rate ratio of the heat medium flow rate flowing out from one side of the outlet port to the heat medium flow rate flowing out from the other side of the outlet port, among the heat medium flowing in from the fourth connection portion 80 d. The second heat medium three-way valve 70b has the same basic structure as the first heat medium three-way valve 70 a.

While the heat medium flowing in from the inlet of the second heat medium three-way valve 70b flows toward the outlet inside the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the heat medium flows out from the second-layer side flow passage 16 to the first-layer side flow passage 11 through the communication passage.

A second communicating portion 40b is formed at an end of the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from one side of the outlet of the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b. Therefore, the heat medium flowing out of one of the outlets of the second heat medium three-way valve 70b flows out from the first-layer side flow path 11 to the second-layer side flow path 16 via the second communication portion 40 b. As shown in fig. 5, a ninth connection port 35i is formed in the second-layer side flow path 16 extending from the second communication portion 40 b.

The first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the other of the outlet ports of the second heat medium three-way valve 70b is connected to the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the seventh connection port 35g and the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the tenth connection port 35j, thereby forming a third connection portion 80 c.

As shown in fig. 3 and 4, the first-stage flow path 11 extending from the eighth connection port 35h is connected to the inlet side of the second heat medium check valve 60 b. The first-stage-side channel 11 extending from the sixth connection port 35f is connected to the first-stage-side channel 11 extending from the outlet of the second heat medium check valve 60b and the first-stage-side channel 11 extending from the inlet of the third heat medium check valve 60c, thereby forming a fifth connection portion 80 e.

The second heat medium check valve 60b allows the heat medium to flow from the eighth connection port 35h to the fifth connection portion 80e, and prohibits the heat medium from flowing from the fifth connection portion 80e to the eighth connection port 35 h. The third heat medium check valve 60c allows the heat medium to flow from the fifth connection portion 80e to the second connection portion 80b, and prohibits the heat medium from flowing from the second connection portion 80b to the fifth connection portion 80 e.

Specific configurations of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the first heat medium check valve 60a, the second heat medium check valve 60b, and the third heat medium check valve 60c will be described with reference to the following drawings.

According to the flow path switching device 1 of the first embodiment, the flow path configuration of the heat medium circuit 50 can be switched to various forms by controlling the operations of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b.

For example, as the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50, the flow path switching device 1 circulates the heat medium in the order of the first water pump 56a, the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52, the heating device 53, the heater core 51, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the heat generating device 54, the third heat medium check valve 60c, and the first water pump 56 a.

According to the heat medium circuit 50 having the flow path structure, the heat medium heated by the waste heat of the heat generating device 54 can be made to flow into the heater core 51, and therefore, the heating of the vehicle interior by the waste heat of the heat generating device 54 can be realized.

Further, as the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50, the flow path switching device 1 circulates the heat medium in the order of the first water pump 56a, the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52, the heating device 53, the heater core 51, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the heat generating device 54, the third heat medium check valve 60c, and the first water pump 56 a. At the same time, the heat medium is circulated in the order of the second water pump 56b, the second heat medium check valve 60b, the third heat medium check valve 60c, the first water pump 56a, the water refrigerant heat exchanger 52, the heating device 53, the heater core 51, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the radiator 55, and the second water pump 56 b.

Thus, the circulation path of the heat medium passing through the heater core 51 and the circulation path of the heat medium passing through the radiator 55 can be configured in parallel with respect to the flow of the heat medium passing through the heat generating device 54. Therefore, according to the heat medium circuit 50 having the flow path structure, the surplus heat can be radiated to the outside air while performing the vehicle interior heating using the waste heat of the heat generating equipment 54.

Further, as the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50, the flow path switching device 1 circulates the heat medium in the order of the first water pump 56a, the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52, the heating device 53, the heater core 51, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, and the first water pump 56 a. Meanwhile, the heat medium is circulated in the order of the second water pump 56b, the second heat medium check valve 60b, the heat generating device 54, the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the radiator 55, and the second water pump 56 b.

According to the heat medium circuit 50 having this configuration, the circulation path of the heat medium passing through the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52 and the heater core 51 and the circulation path of the heat medium circulating through the heat generating device 54 and the radiator 55 can be formed independently. As a result, the heat medium circuit 50 can cool the heat generating equipment 54 by radiating heat to the outside while heating the vehicle interior by the refrigeration cycle 90.

Next, the second layer side cover member 25 and the like in the flow path switching device 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. As described above, the second layer side cover member 25 is attached to the other surface side of the body member 5. As shown in fig. 6, the second-layer-side cover member 25 is attached so as to seal the second-layer-side flow passage 16 including the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second-layer-side flow passage 16 including the second heat medium three-way valve 70b in the second-layer-side flow passage 16.

Further, a fixed cover 28 is attached to the other surface side of the main body member. The fixed cover 28 is attached to seal the second-layer-side flow path 16 connected to the ninth connection port 35i of the second-layer-side flow path 16.

Since the second layer side cover member 25 and the fixed cover 28 are attached to the other surface side of the body member 5, the second layer side cover member 25 can be removed in a state where the fixed cover 28 is joined even when the leak inspection of the flow path in the flow path switching device 1 is performed. This reduces the workload of the leak inspection.

As shown in fig. 6, a plurality of through holes 26 are formed in the second layer side cover member 25, and the plurality of through holes 26 are formed to penetrate the second layer side cover member 25 in the thickness direction. The plurality of through holes 26 are formed so as to be aligned in the stacking direction L with the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b in the second-layer side flow path 16.

The through holes 26 are respectively penetrated by the rotary shafts 74a of the valve bodies 73 in the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b. Thus, the ends of the rotary shaft 74a of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b reach the inside of the driving portion 30, and therefore, the driving force generated in the electromagnetic motor 32 can be transmitted to the valve body portions 73.

As shown in fig. 6, a plurality of positioning pins 27 are formed in the second layer side cover member 25. Each positioning pin 27 is formed to protrude toward the other surface of the main body member 5.

On the other hand, a plurality of positioning recesses 17 are formed in the other surface of the body member 5. Each positioning recess 17 is formed by recessing the other surface of the main body member 5 in the stacking direction L, and is arranged to correspond to the position of the positioning pin 27 in the second layer side cover member 25.

When the second layer side cover member 25 is attached to the other surface of the main body member 5, the positioning pins 27 are fitted into the positioning concave portions 17, respectively. The second layer side cover member 25 is positioned at a predetermined position on the other surface of the main body member 5 by fitting the positioning concave portions 17 to the positioning pins 27. That is, the positioning recess 17 and the positioning pin 27 function as positioning portions.

Here, the second layer side cover member 25 is formed with a plurality of through holes 26 as described above, and is penetrated by the rotation shaft 74a of the valve body 73. Therefore, if the position of the second layer side cover member 25 is shifted with respect to the other surface of the main body member 5, the rotation shaft 74a interferes with the through hole 26, and the operation of the valve body section 73 may be hindered.

In this regard, since the main body member 5 and the second layer side cover member 25 can be joined in an appropriate positional relationship by the cooperation of the positioning recessed portions 17 and the positioning pins 27, the through hole 26 and the rotation shaft 74a do not interfere with each other, and smooth operation of the valve body section 73 can be ensured.

Next, the structure and mounting of the first heat medium check valve 60a and the like in the flow path switching device 1 will be described with reference to fig. 7 and 8. As described above, the flow path switching device 1 according to the first embodiment is attached with the first heat medium check valve 60a, the second heat medium check valve 60b, and the third heat medium check valve 60 c. In the following description, the first to third heat medium check valves 60a to 60c may be collectively referred to as the heat medium check valve 60 unless otherwise particularly required.

As shown in fig. 3, the first heat medium check valve 60a, the second heat medium check valve 60b, and the third heat medium check valve 60c are disposed in the first-stage flow passage 11, and the first-stage flow passage 11 extends linearly so as to connect from the second connection port 35b to the eighth connection port 35 h.

That is, the first heat medium check valve 60a, the second heat medium check valve 60b, and the third heat medium check valve 60c are respectively attached to predetermined positions by the plurality of flow path resistance portions 12 formed in the first stage side flow path 11 having the same straight line shape. Therefore, the flow resistance section 12 holds functional components such as the first heat medium check valve 60a in the first-stage-side flow path 11.

Here, the structure of the heat medium check valve 60 including the first heat medium check valve 60a and the like will be described with reference to fig. 7. As shown in fig. 7 and 8, the heat medium check valve 60 is configured such that a spherical valve body 62 is housed inside a cylindrical valve body case 61. The interior of the cylindrical valve element housing 61 forms a pipe through which the heating medium passes.

A flow passage hole 61a is formed on the heat medium inlet side of the valve body case 61. As shown in fig. 6, the flow passage hole 61a is formed to have a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the heat medium outlet of the valve body case 61 and the outer diameter of the spherical valve body 62. When the heat medium flows in from the heat medium outlet side, the flow passage hole 61a constitutes a valve seat on which the spherical valve element 62 is seated.

A regulating pin 63 is disposed on the heat medium outlet side of the valve body case 61. The regulating pin 63 is formed in a rod shape and is disposed so as to intersect the flow direction of the heat medium in the valve body case 61. The restricting pin 63 restricts the movement range of the spherical valve element 62 inside the valve element housing 61 by cooperating with the spherical valve element 62.

The heat medium check valve 60 such as the first heat medium check valve 60a configured as described above is attached to the inside of the first-stage-side flow passage 11 via the flow passage resistance portion 12 formed in the first-stage-side flow passage 11. As shown in fig. 7 and 8, the flow path resistance portion 12 is formed in a wall shape so as to cross the first-layer side flow path 11 formed in a groove shape, and has a holding hole 12 a.

The holding hole 12a is formed to penetrate the flow path resistance portion 12 in the thickness direction. That is, the flow path resistance portion 12 changes so as to reduce the flow path cross-sectional area of the first-stage side flow path 11, thereby increasing the flow path resistance of the heat medium flowing through the first-stage side flow path 11.

The inner diameter of the holding hole 12a is formed slightly larger than the outer diameter of the valve body case 61. Therefore, as shown in fig. 8, the heat medium check valve 60 is attached to the holding hole 12a of the flow path resistance portion 12 by moving in the extending direction of the first layer side flow path 11. Therefore, the flow path resistance portion 12 holds the heat medium check valve 60 as a functional component.

As shown in fig. 7, a seal member 64 is disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the valve body case 61 and the inner wall surface of the holding hole 12 a. The sealing member 64 is formed of a so-called O-ring, and prevents the heat medium from leaking between the outer peripheral surface of the valve body case 61 and the inner wall surface of the holding hole 12 a.

By mounting the heat medium check valve 60 configured as described above to the flow path resistance portion 12, the first to third heat medium check valves 60a to 60c in the flow path switching device 1 function.

According to the example shown in fig. 7, when the heat medium flows from the eighth connection port 35h side to the second connection port 35b side, the ball-shaped valve 62 moves toward the heat medium outlet side in accordance with the flow of the heat medium in the valve body case 61 of each heat medium check valve 60.

Thereby, the flow passage hole 61a in the heat medium check valve 60 is opened, and the heat medium is allowed to flow from the eighth connection port 35h side toward the second connection port 35b side. At this time, the movement of the spherical valve 62 to the heat medium outlet side is restricted by the restriction pin 63, and therefore the heat medium does not flow out of the valve body case 61.

On the other hand, when the heat medium flows from the second connection port 35b side toward the eighth connection port 35h side, the spherical valve element 62 moves toward the heat medium inlet side in accordance with the flow of the heat medium and is seated in the flow passage hole 61a inside the valve element housing 61 of each heat medium check valve 60. Thereby, the flow passage hole 61a of the heat medium check valve 60 is closed by the ball valve 62, and the heat medium is prohibited from flowing from the second connection port 35b side to the eighth connection port 35h side.

As shown in fig. 8, a joint surface 12b is formed in the flow path resistance portion 12. The joint surface 12b of the channel resistance section 12 is configured to connect the surface on one surface side of the main body member 5 so as to cross the first-stage channel 11. As shown in fig. 7, when the first-layer side cover member 20 is attached to one surface side of the main body member 5, the attachment surface 12b abuts against the surface of the first-layer side cover member 20.

Therefore, according to the flow path switching device 1, when the first-layer side cover member 20 is joined to the main body member 5 by laser welding or the like, the joining can be performed via the joining surface 12b of the flow path resistance portion 12. Thus, in the flow switching device 1, the use of the plurality of joint surfaces 12b can improve the joint strength between the first-layer side cover member 20 and the main body member 5.

Further, since the bonding surface 12b is formed to connect the surfaces on the one surface side of the body member 5, when laser welding or the like is employed, it is possible to minimize the change in the setting of the focal length or the like, and to perform a continuous bonding operation.

Next, the configuration of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the like in the flow path switching device 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. As described above, the flow path switching device 1 according to the first embodiment is provided with the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b.

In the following description, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b may be collectively referred to as a heat medium three-way valve 70 unless otherwise specified. The diagram shown in fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a basic configuration of the heat medium three-way valve 70, and the specific configuration of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a is different from that of the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b.

As shown in fig. 10, the heat medium three-way valve 70 is a three-way flow rate adjustment valve, and is capable of adjusting the flow rate ratio of the heat medium flow rate flowing out from the first heat medium outlet 76 and the heat medium flow rate flowing out from the second heat medium outlet 77, of the heat medium flowing in from the heat medium inlet 72.

In the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the second-layer side flow path 16 extending from the fourth connection port 35d corresponds to the heat medium inlet 72. The first layer side channel 11 extending to the second connection portion 80b and the first layer side channel 11 extending to the fourth connection portion 80d correspond to the first heat medium outlet 76 and the second heat medium outlet 77.

In the case of the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the second-layer side flow path 16 extending from the first communication portion 40a corresponds to the heat medium inlet 72. The first layer side channel 11 extending to the second communication portion 40b and the first layer side channel 11 extending to the third connection portion 80c correspond to the first heat medium outlet 76 and the second heat medium outlet 77.

As shown in fig. 9 and 10, the heat medium three-way valve 70 is formed in a tubular shape extending in the stacking direction L. Therefore, in the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the communication passage that communicates the second-layer side flow passage 16 and the first-layer side flow passage 11 in the stacking direction L corresponds to the body 71.

The valve body 73 is disposed inside the body 71. The valve body 73 is constituted by a drive disk 74 and a fixed disk 75. The fixed disk 75 is disposed to partition the main body portion 71 in the stacking direction L, and the fixed disk 75 has a first communication passage 75a and a second communication passage 75 b.

The first communication passage 75a penetrates the fixed disk 75 in the thickness direction of the fixed disk 75, and communicates the space on the heat medium inlet 72 side with the space on the first heat medium outlet 76 side. Second communication passage 75b penetrates fixed disk 75 in the thickness direction of fixed disk 75 at a position adjacent to first communication passage 75 a. The second communication passages 75b communicate the space on the heat medium inlet 72 side with the space on the second heat medium outlet 77 side.

The interior of the body portion 71 is divided into a space on the first heat medium outlet 76 side and a space on the second heat medium outlet 77 side. Therefore, the heat medium does not flow out between the space on the first heat medium outlet port 76 side and the space on the second heat medium outlet port 77 side without passing through the first communication passage 75a and the second communication passage 75 b.

The drive disk 74 is disposed along the surface of the fixed disk 75 on the heat medium inlet 72 side, and is formed in a substantially fan-shaped plate shape. The drive plate 74 is formed in a size capable of blocking at least either one of the first communication passage 75a and the second communication passage 75 b. The drive plate 74 is fixed to a rotary shaft 74a constituting the valve body 73.

Therefore, the drive disk 74 slides on the surface of the fixed disk 75 in accordance with the rotation of the rotary shaft 74 a. As described above, the rotary shaft 74a reaches the inside of the driving unit 30 through the through hole 26 of the second layer side cover member 25. The gear 33a constituting the transmission mechanism 33 is fixed to a rotary shaft 74a in the drive unit 30. Therefore, the drive disk 74 slides on the surface of the fixed disk 75 in accordance with the operation of the electromagnetic motor 32 of the drive unit 30.

That is, the heat medium three-way valve 70 can change the position of the drive disk 74 relative to the fixed disk 75 by controlling the operation of the drive unit 30. Thus, the heat medium three-way valve 70 can adjust the flow ratio of the heat medium flow rate flowing out of the first heat medium outlet 76 to the heat medium flow rate flowing out of the second heat medium outlet 77.

Next, adjustment of the flow rate ratio in the heat medium three-way valve 70 will be described with reference to fig. 11 to 14. In the following description, the opening degree of the first communication passage 75a is referred to as a first opening degree Oa, and the opening degree of the second communication passage 75b is referred to as a second opening degree Ob.

In the case shown in fig. 11, the drive plate 74 completely closes the second communication passage 75b, and the first communication passage 75a is fully opened. In other words, the state is shown in which the first opening degree Oa is 100% and the second opening degree Ob is 0%. In this case, the heat medium three-way valve 70 is in a state in which the entire flow rate of the heat medium flowing in from the heat medium inlet 72 is caused to flow out from the first heat medium outlet 76.

When the drive plate 74 is gradually slid in a predetermined direction (clockwise direction in fig. 11) from the state shown in fig. 11, the drive plate 74 moves forward toward the first communication passage 75a and moves away from the second communication passage 75 b.

That is, when this operation is performed, as shown in fig. 14, the heat medium three-way valve 70 decreases the first opening degree Oa as the second opening degree Ob is increased. Thereby, the heat medium three-way valve 70 can adjust the flow ratio of the heat medium at the first heat medium outlet 76 and the second heat medium outlet 77.

As shown in fig. 12, when the drive plate 74 completely closes the first communication passage 75a, the second communication passage 75b is fully opened. That is, the first opening degree Oa is 0% and the second opening degree Ob is 100%. In this case, the heat medium three-way valve 70 is in a state in which the entire flow rate of the heat medium flowing in from the heat medium inlet 72 is discharged from the second heat medium outlet 77.

In this way, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b having the structure of the heat medium three-way valve 70 can adjust the flow rate of the heat medium flowing out from one side of the outlet port and the flow rate of the heat medium flowing out from the other side of the outlet port. The heat medium three-way valve 70 can allow the heat medium to flow out from one of the two outflow ports.

Therefore, according to the flow switching device 1 of the first embodiment, the flow configuration of the heat exchange medium circuit 50 can be appropriately switched by controlling the operation of the valve bodies 73 of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b.

As shown in fig. 13, according to the heat medium three-way valve 70 having this configuration, when one of the first communication passage 75a and the second communication passage 75b is fully opened, the opening degree of the other can be increased or decreased. Even in the state shown in fig. 13, the three-way heat medium valve 70 can adjust the flow rate of the heat medium flowing out from one of the outlet ports and the flow rate of the heat medium flowing out from the other of the outlet ports.

In the flow switching device 1, the heat insulating portion 13 is formed between the flow paths arranged close to each other in the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16. For example, as shown in fig. 15, a groove-shaped heat insulating portion 13 is formed between the two first-stage side flow channels 11 on one surface side of the main body member 5.

The heat insulating portion 13 is formed independently of the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16, and the heat medium does not flow into the heat insulating portion 13. Therefore, since the inside of the heat insulating portion 13 is filled with air, the heat insulating portion 13 can block heat transfer between the two first-stage side channels 11. Thus, the heat insulating portion 13 can suppress the influence of heat transfer between the closely arranged flow paths, and each component in the heat medium circuit 50 can be appropriately used.

Preferably, the heat insulating section 13 is disposed at a position where the low-temperature heat medium flows through one of the closely disposed flow paths and the high-temperature heat medium flows through the other. This is because the heat medium flowing through the channels arranged in proximity to each other can be maintained at an appropriate temperature.

As described above, according to the flow channel switching device 1 of the first embodiment, as shown in fig. 2, 7, and the like, the first-layer-side flow channel forming section 10, the second-layer-side flow channel forming section 15, and the drive section 30 of the body member 5 are arranged in a stacked manner in the stacking direction L. Therefore, according to the flow path switching device 1, the functions of the pipe, the joint, and the valve for switching the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50 can be integrated, and a more compact structure can be realized.

Further, as shown in fig. 5, the valve body portions 73 of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b can be disposed at positions close to each other by disposing the first layer side flow passage forming portion 10, the second layer side flow passage forming portion 15, and the driving portion 30 of the body member 5 in a stacked manner in the stacking direction L. Therefore, according to the flow path switching device 1, the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50 can be switched with a compact and lightweight configuration, as compared with the case where a drive source such as a motor is disposed in each of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b.

As shown in fig. 7, the first-layer-side flow-path forming section 10 is configured to form a groove-like first-layer-side flow path 11 on one surface side of the block-like body member 5, and the second-layer-side flow-path forming section 15 is configured to form a groove-like second-layer-side flow path 16 on the other surface side of the body member 5.

One surface side of the body member 5 is sealed by the first-layer side cover member 20, and the other surface side of the body member 5 is sealed by the second-layer side cover member 25. Thus, the flow channel switching device 1 can reliably stack and arrange the first layer side flow channel forming section 10 and the second layer side flow channel forming section 15, and can realize a compact and lightweight structure.

Further, as shown in fig. 7, a flow path resistance portion 12 is formed in the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending linearly so as to connect the second connection port 35b to the eighth connection port 35 h. The joint surface 12b of the flow path resistance portion 12 is connected to the surface of the main body member 5 so as to cross the first-stage flow path 11, and is joined to the first-stage side cover member 20.

Thus, the flow path switching device 1 can join the first-layer side cover member 20 and the body member 5 by the joint surface 12b of the flow path resistance portion 12, and therefore, the joint strength between the body member 5 and the first-layer side cover member 20 can be improved.

The heat medium check valve 60, which is a functional component of the heat medium circuit 50, is held by the holding hole 12a of the flow path resistance portion 12. Therefore, the flow path resistance portion 12 exerts various effects as follows: the flow path resistance in the heat medium circuit 50 is adjusted to increase the bonding strength between the first-layer side cover member 20 and the main body member 5, and the heat medium check valve 60 in the heat medium circuit 50 is held.

Further, as shown in fig. 7 and the like, a plurality of flow path resistance portions 12 are arranged inside the first layer side flow paths 11 in the same straight line. The first heat medium check valve 60a, the second heat medium check valve 60b, and the third heat medium check valve 60c are attached as functional components to the holding hole 12a of each flow path resistance portion 12. The joint surfaces 12b of the flow path resistance portions 12 are joined to the first-layer side cover members 20, respectively.

Thus, since a plurality of joint portions formed by the joint surfaces 12b can be arranged in the linear first-stage flow path 11, the joint portions formed by the joint surfaces 12b can be provided at short intervals, and the joint strength of the linear flow path portion can be improved.

As shown in fig. 6, a plurality of through holes 26 are formed in the second layer side cover member 25. The through hole 26 is penetrated by the rotary shaft 74a of the valve body 73 in the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b. Further, as shown in fig. 2, a transmission mechanism 33 and an electromagnetic motor 32 as a drive source of each valve body portion 73 are attached to the second layer side cover member 25.

Accordingly, the positional relationship between the rotary shaft 74a penetrating the through hole 26, the transmission mechanism 33, and the electromagnetic motor 32 can be accurately determined, and therefore the valve bodies 73 in the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b can be reliably operated.

As shown in fig. 5, a plurality of positioning concave portions 17 are formed in the second-layer-side flow passage forming portion 15, and a plurality of positioning pins 27 are formed in the second-layer-side cover member 25. The second layer side cover member 25 can be positioned at a predetermined position with respect to the body member 5 and joined to the body member 5 by fitting the positioning pins 27 into the positioning concave portions 17.

This allows the rotary shaft 74a of the valve body portions 73 of the first and second heat medium three-way valves 70a, 70b to be accurately positioned with respect to the through hole 26 of the second layer side cover member 25, and prevents the rotary shaft 74a from interfering with the through hole 26. That is, the flow path switching device 1 can ensure smooth operation of the valve body 73.

As shown in fig. 15, a heat insulating portion 13 is formed between the channels disposed close to each other in the first-layer side channel 11 and the second-layer side channel 16. The heat insulating portion 13 blocks heat transfer between the two first-stage side channels 11.

Therefore, the flow channel switching device 1 can suppress the influence of heat transfer between the closely arranged flow channels by the heat insulating portion 13. Thus, according to the flow path switching device 1, the temperature of the heat medium flowing through each flow path can be appropriately maintained, and thus each component in the heat medium circuit 50 can be appropriately used.

As shown in fig. 9 to 14, the valve body portions 73 of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b are arranged so as to be able to adjust the flow rates of the heat medium flowing into the first communication passage 75a and the second communication passage 75 b. As shown in fig. 14, the drive plate 74 of the valve body portion 73 decreases one of the first communication passage 75a and the second communication passage 75b in accordance with the increase in the opening degree of the other.

Therefore, the flow path configuration of the heat medium circuit 50 can be switched to various configurations by controlling the operations of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b by the flow path switching device 1. Thus, the heat medium circuit 50 can adjust the temperature of the air conditioning in the vehicle interior and the temperature of the vehicle-mounted device such as the heat generating device 54 in various ways.

(second embodiment)

Next, a flow channel switching device 1 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 16 to 19. As in the first embodiment, the flow switching device 1 of the second embodiment constitutes a part of the heat medium circuit 50.

Further, similarly to the first embodiment, the flow channel switching device 1 of the second embodiment has a structure in which the first-layer-side flow channel forming section 10, the second-layer-side flow channel forming section 15, and the driving section 30 are sequentially arranged in a stacked manner in the stacking direction L.

In the second embodiment, the first-stage-side flow channel 11 is also formed on one surface side of the body member 5, and constitutes the first-stage-side flow channel forming section 10. The first-layer-side cover member 20 is joined to one surface side of the main body member 5, and the first-layer-side flow path 11 is sealed.

Further, a second-layer-side flow channel 16 is formed on the other surface side of the body member 5, and constitutes a second-layer-side flow channel forming section 15. The second layer side cover member 25 is joined to the other surface side of the body member 5, and the second layer side flow path 16 is sealed.

The basic configuration of the flow path switching device 1 of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment except for the configurations of the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16, and the arrangement of the spool portion 73 and the like. Therefore, the same structure as that of the second embodiment will not be described again.

The heat medium circuit 50 of the second embodiment includes a battery 57 as a temperature adjustment target device, in addition to the constituent devices of the first embodiment. The heat medium circuit 50 of the second embodiment is used when the temperature of the battery 57 is adjusted, in addition to the air conditioning of the vehicle interior and the temperature adjustment of the vehicle-mounted equipment (for example, the heat generating equipment 54) in the electric vehicle.

As in the first embodiment, the flow channel switching device 1 of the second embodiment has a plurality of connection ports on a side surface of the body member 5. As shown in fig. 16, the flow channel switching device 1 according to the second embodiment includes an eleventh connection port 35k and a twelfth connection port 35l in addition to the first to tenth connection ports 35a to 35j similar to those of the first embodiment.

As in the first embodiment, the first to tenth connection ports 35a to 35j are connected to the respective constituent devices in the heat medium circuit 50 via heat medium pipes. The correspondence relationship between each connection port and the constituent devices is basically the same as that in the first embodiment.

The eleventh connection port 35k and the twelfth connection port 35l are connected to the heat medium passage 57a of the battery 57 via heat medium pipes. The battery 57 is a secondary battery (for example, a lithium ion battery) that stores electric power supplied to the motor generator and the like. The battery 57 is a battery pack formed by connecting a plurality of battery cells in series or in parallel. The battery 57 generates heat during charge and discharge.

The heat medium passage 57a of the battery 57 is a heat medium passage for adjusting the temperature of the battery 57 by flowing a heat medium therethrough, and constitutes a device heat exchange unit. That is, the heat medium passages 57a of the battery 57 are connected so as to allow the heat medium of the heat medium circuit 50 to flow out and into.

When the heat medium cooled by the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52 flows through the heat medium passage 57a of the battery 57, the heat medium passage 57a functions as a cooling unit that cools the battery 57 using a low-temperature heat medium as a cold heat source. When a high-temperature heat medium flows through the heat medium passage 57a of the battery 57, the heat medium passage functions as a heating unit that heats the battery 57 using the high-temperature heat medium as a heat source.

The heat medium passage 57a of the battery 57 is formed in a dedicated case of the battery 57. The passage structure of the heat medium passage 57a of the battery 57 is a passage structure in which a plurality of passages are connected in parallel inside the dedicated case.

This allows the heat medium passage 57a to uniformly exchange heat with the heat medium over the entire area of the battery 57. For example, the heat medium passage 57a is formed to uniformly absorb heat from heat of all the battery cells, and thus all the battery cells can be uniformly cooled.

Further, the flow path switching device 1 of the second embodiment has the third heat medium three-way valve 70c and the heat medium on-off valve 78 as a configuration for switching the flow path configuration of the heat medium circuit 50. The third heat medium three-way valve 70c is constituted by a three-way flow rate adjustment valve, similarly to the first heat medium three-way valve 70a and the second heat medium three-way valve 70b described above.

The heat medium opening/closing valve 78 is an opening/closing valve that opens and closes a flow path in the heat medium circuit 50, and the heat medium opening/closing valve 78 has the valve body 73, similarly to the heat medium three-way valve 70. In the valve body 73 of the heat medium opening/closing valve 78, one communication passage having the same configuration as the first communication passage 75a is formed in the fixed disk 75. The communication path is opened and closed by the drive plate 74, whereby the opening and closing operation of the heat medium opening/closing valve 78 is realized.

Next, the structures of the first-layer side flow channel 11 and the second-layer side flow channel 16 in the second embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 17 to 19.

Between the first connection port 35a and the second connection port 35b in the second embodiment, a first water pump 56a and a heat medium passage 52b of the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52 are connected via a heat medium pipe. As shown in fig. 18, the first connection port 35a constitutes one end portion of the first-stage-side channel 11. On the other hand, as shown in fig. 19, the second connection port 35b constitutes one end portion of the second-layer side flow path 16.

Further, a heating device 53 and a heater core 51 are connected between the third connection port 35c and the fourth connection port 35d via a heat medium pipe. As shown in fig. 18 and 19, the third connection port 35c constitutes one end of the first-layer-side channel 11, and the fourth connection port 35d constitutes one end of the second-layer-side channel 16.

Further, a heat medium passage 54a of the heat generating device 54 is connected between the fifth connection port 35e and the sixth connection port 35f via a heat medium pipe. As shown in fig. 18, the fifth connection port 35e constitutes one end of the first-stage-side channel 11. On the other hand, as shown in fig. 19, the sixth connection port 35f constitutes one end portion of the second-layer side flow path 16.

As shown in fig. 17, a second water pump 56b is connected between the seventh connection port 35g and the eighth connection port 35h via a heat medium pipe. As shown in fig. 18, the seventh connection port 35g and the eighth connection port 35h constitute one end of the first-stage-side flow path 11.

Further, a heat sink 55 is connected between the ninth connection port 35i and the tenth connection port 35j via a heat medium pipe. As shown in fig. 19, the ninth connection port 35i constitutes one end portion of the second-layer side flow path 16. On the other hand, as shown in fig. 18, the tenth connection port 35j constitutes one end portion of the first-stage-side flow path 11.

As described above, the heat medium passage 57a of the battery 57 is connected between the eleventh connection port 35k and the twelfth connection port 35l via the heat medium pipe. As shown in fig. 18, the eleventh connection port 35k constitutes one end portion of the first-stage-side channel 11. Further, as shown in FIG. 19, the twelfth connection port 35l constitutes one end portion of the second-layer side flow path 16.

In the first-stage-side flow channel forming unit 10 according to the second embodiment, the first-stage-side flow channel 11 extending from the first connection port 35a is connected to the first-stage-side flow channel 11 extending from the outflow port of the fourth heat medium check valve 60 d. A sixth communicating portion 40f is formed in the first-stage side flow path 11 between the first connection port 35a and the outlet of the fourth heat medium check valve 60 d.

Here, as shown in fig. 17 to 19, the sixth communicating portion 40f forms a sixth connecting portion 80f by communicating the second-layer-side flow path 16 extending from a fifth communicating portion 40e described later with the first-layer-side flow path 11.

As shown in fig. 19, the second-layer side flow path 16 extending from the fourth connection port 35d is connected to an inlet of the first heat medium three-way valve 70 a. While the heat medium flowing in from the inlet of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a flows toward the outlet inside the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the heat medium flows out from the second-layer side flow passage 16 to the first-layer side flow passage 11 through the communication passage.

The first-stage side flow path 11 extending from one of the outlets of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a is connected to the first-stage side flow path 11 extending from the inlet of the first heat medium check valve 60a, the first-stage side flow path 11 extending from the outlet of the second heat medium check valve 60b, and the first-stage side flow path 11 extending from the fifth communicating portion 40 e. The second connection portion 80b is formed by connecting the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from one of the outlets of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a to the three other first-stage-side flow paths 11.

The fifth communicating portion 40e communicates between the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16 in the stacking direction L. Therefore, the heat medium flows between the first-layer side flow passage 11 and the second-layer side flow passage 16 through the fifth communicating portion 40 e.

As shown in fig. 19, the second-layer-side flow path 16 extending from the fifth communicating portion 40e has a sixth communicating portion 40f at an end thereof. Therefore, the heat medium can be surely flowed between the first-layer side flow path 11 including the sixth connection portion 80f and the first-layer side flow path 11 including the second connection portion 80b through the fifth and sixth communication portions 40e and 40 f.

The first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the other of the outlets of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a is connected to the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the fifth connection port 35e and the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the first communication portion 40a, thereby forming a fourth connection portion 80 d.

As described above, in the first communication portion 40a, the heat medium flows between the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16. As shown in fig. 19, the second-layer side flow path 16 extending from the first communication portion 40a is connected to an inlet of the second heat medium three-way valve 70 b. While the heat medium flowing in from the inlet of the second heat medium three-way valve 70b flows toward the outlet inside the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the heat medium flows out from the second-layer side flow passage 16 to the first-layer side flow passage 11 through the communication passage.

The first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from one side of the outlet of the second heat medium three-way valve 70b is connected to the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the seventh connection port 35g and the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the tenth connection port 35j, thereby forming a third connection portion 80 c.

The first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the other of the outlet ports of the second heat medium three-way valve 70b has a second communicating portion 40b at an end thereof. In the second communication portion 40b, the heat medium flows between the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16. As shown in fig. 19, the second-layer side flow path 16 extending from the second communication portion 40b extends to the ninth connection port 35 i.

A third communicating portion 40c is formed between the second communicating portion 40b and the ninth connecting port 35 i. In the third communicating portion 40c, the heat medium flows between the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16. The first layer side channel 11 extending from the third communicating portion 40c is connected to one side of the inlet and outlet of the heat medium opening/closing valve 78. In the heat medium opening/closing valve 78, the heat medium flows in and out between the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16 while flowing from one side of the inflow/outflow port to the other side thereof.

As shown in fig. 18, the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the third connection port 35c is connected to the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the outlet port of the first heat medium check valve 60a and the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from one of the outlet ports of the third heat medium three-way valve 70c, thereby forming a first connection portion 80 a.

The second-stage side flow path 16 extending from the second connection port 35b is connected to an inlet of the third heat medium three-way valve 70 c. While the heat medium flowing in from the inlet of the third heat medium three-way valve 70c flows toward the outlet inside the third heat medium three-way valve 70c, the heat medium flows out from the second-layer side flow path 16 to the first-layer side flow path 11 through the communication path.

As described above, the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from one of the outlets of the third heat medium three-way valve 70c is connected to the first connection portion 80 a. As shown in fig. 18, the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the other of the outlets of the third heat medium three-way valve 70c is connected to the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the eleventh connection port 35k and the first-stage-side flow path 11 extending from the outlet of the fifth heat medium check valve 60e, thereby forming an eighth connection portion 80 h.

The first-stage-side channel 11 extending from the eighth connection port 35h is connected to the first-stage-side channel 11 extending from the inlet of the second heat medium check valve 60b and the first-stage-side channel 11 extending from the inlet of the fifth heat medium check valve 60e, thereby forming a tenth connection portion 80 j.

As shown in fig. 19, the second-layer-side flow path 16 extending from the sixth connection port 35f has a fourth communication portion 40d at an end thereof. In the fourth communication portion 40d, the heat medium flows between the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16.

Here, as shown in fig. 18, the fourth communicating portion 40d is disposed inside the first-stage side flow path 11 that connects the outlet port of the first heat medium check valve 60a and the inlet port of the third heat medium check valve 60 c. Therefore, the fourth communicating portion 40d connects the first layer side channel 11 extending from the outlet of the first heat medium check valve 60a, the first layer side channel 11 extending from the inlet of the third heat medium check valve 60c, and the second layer side channel 16 extending from the sixth connection port 35f, and constitutes the fifth connection portion 80 e.

As shown in fig. 19, the second-layer-side flow path 16 extending from the twelfth connection port 35l is connected to the second-layer-side flow path 16 extending from the other of the inlet and outlet of the heat medium opening/closing valve and the second-layer-side flow path 16 extending from the seventh communication portion 40g, and constitutes a seventh connection portion 80 g. Therefore, the second-layer-side flow path 16 extending from the twelfth connection port 35l is connected to the first-layer-side flow path 11 extending from the third communication portion 40c via the heat medium opening/closing valve 78.

In the seventh communication portion 40g, the heat medium flows between the first-layer side flow path 11 and the second-layer side flow path 16. The first-stage side channel 11 extending from the seventh communication portion 40g is connected to an inlet of the fourth heat medium check valve 60 d.

According to the flow path switching device 1 of the second embodiment, air conditioning in the vehicle interior, temperature adjustment of the heat generating equipment 54, and temperature adjustment of the battery 57 can be performed by switching the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50.

For example, the flow switching device 1 of the second embodiment circulates the heat medium in the order of the first water pump 56a, the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52, the third heat medium three-way valve 70c, the battery 57, the fourth heat medium check valve 60d, and the first water pump 56a as the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50. Meanwhile, the heat medium is circulated in the order of the second water pump 56b, the second heat medium check valve 60b, the heat generating device 54, the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the radiator 55, and the second water pump 56 b.

According to the heat medium circuit 50 having this flow path structure, the waste heat of the heat generating equipment 54 can be radiated to the outside air while cooling the battery 57 having the refrigeration cycle 90 as a cold source. That is, the temperature adjustment of the battery 57 and the temperature adjustment of the heat generating device 54 can be performed independently and in parallel.

According to the flow path switching device 1 of the second embodiment, in the circuit configuration of the heat medium circuit 50 described above, the circulation path of the heat medium can be further switched by the second water pump 56 b. The heat medium is circulated in the order of the second water pump 56b, the second heat medium check valve 60b, the third heat medium three-way valve 70c, the first heat medium check valve 60a, the heating device 53, the heater core 51, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the radiator 55, and the second water pump 56 b.

With this configuration, cooling of the battery 57 by the refrigeration cycle 90, heating of the vehicle interior using the waste heat of the heat generating equipment 54, and heat dissipation of the surplus heat of the waste heat of the heat generating equipment 54 to the outside air can be performed in parallel.

Further, as the flow path structure of the heat medium circuit 50, the flow path switching device 1 of the second embodiment circulates the heat medium in the order of the first water pump 56a, the water-refrigerant heat exchanger 52, the heating device 53, the heater core 51, the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the heat generating equipment 54, the third heat medium check valve 60c, and the first water pump 56 a. At the same time, the heat medium is circulated in the order of the second water pump 56b, the fifth heat medium check valve 60e, the battery 57, the heat medium on-off valve 78, the radiator 55, and the second water pump 56 b.

Thus, according to the heat medium circuit 50 having the flow path structure, the vehicle interior air conditioning using the waste heat of the heat generating device 54 and the refrigeration cycle 90 and the cooling of the battery 57 by the heat radiation to the outside air can be performed in parallel.

As described above, according to the flow channel switching device 1 of the second embodiment, even when the temperature adjustment of the battery 57 is added to the function of the heat medium circuit 50, the operational effects of the configuration and the operation common to those of the first embodiment can be obtained as in the first embodiment.

(third embodiment)

Next, a flow channel switching device 1 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 20 to 21. As in the above-described embodiments, the flow channel switching device 1 of the third embodiment constitutes a part of the heat medium circuit 50.

The flow path switching device 1 of the third embodiment is basically configured in the same manner as the first embodiment, including the configuration of the heat medium circuit 50. The third embodiment differs in the structure of the flow path resistance portion 12 and the structures of the first to third heat medium check valves 60a to 60 c. Therefore, the same structure in the third embodiment will not be described again, and the differences will be described in detail.

Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along a cross section of the first-stage-side channel 11 linearly extending so as to connect the second connection port 35b to the eighth connection port 35h in the channel switching device 1 according to the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, a plurality of flow path resistance portions 12 are also arranged inside the linear first-stage-side flow path 11 connecting the second connection port 35b and the eighth connection port 35 h.

Each of the flow path resistance portions 12 is formed in a wall shape so as to cross the first-layer side flow path 11 formed in a groove shape, and has a holding hole 12a, as in the first embodiment. The holding hole 12a is formed to penetrate the flow path resistance portion 12 in the thickness direction. That is, the flow path resistance portion 12 changes so as to reduce the flow path cross-sectional area of the first-stage side flow path 11, thereby increasing the flow path resistance of the heat medium flowing through the first-stage side flow path 11.

In the third embodiment, the inner diameter of the holding hole 12a is formed smaller than the outer diameter of the spherical valve body 62 constituting the valve bodies of the first to third heat medium check valves 60a to 60 c. As shown in fig. 20, each of the spherical valve bodies 62 is disposed on the second connection port 35b side of the flow path resistance portion 12 and is configured to be movable in accordance with the flow of the heat medium passing through the first-stage-side flow path 11.

Further, a restricting piece 63a and a restricting projection 63b are formed at a position closer to the second connection port 35b side than the position of each of the ball valve bodies 62, and the restricting piece 63a and the restricting projection 63b are formed to face each other. As shown in fig. 20 and 21, the restriction piece 63a is formed to protrude from the first-layer-side cover member 20 into the first-layer-side channel 11.

On the other hand, the restricting protrusion 63b protrudes from the bottom surface of the groove-shaped first-stage flow channel 11 toward the open portion of the first-stage flow channel 11. The restriction piece 63a and the restriction protrusion 63b are arranged such that the channel width of the first-stage-side channel 11 is smaller than the outer diameter of the spherical valve element 62. That is, the regulating piece 63a and the regulating projection 63b function similarly to the regulating pin 63 of the heat medium check valve 60 in the first embodiment.

Therefore, the spherical valve element 62 is accommodated in the first-stage side flow passage 11 so as to be movable in a range from the regulating piece 63a and the regulating projection 63b to the flow passage resistance portion 12. Therefore, according to the example shown in fig. 20, when the heat medium flows from the eighth connection port 35h side toward the second connection port 35b side, the ball valve body 62 moves toward the regulating piece 63a and the regulating protrusion 63b side in accordance with the flow of the heat medium.

In this case, the holding hole 12a of the flow path resistance portion 12 is opened as the ball valve 62 moves. Further, as shown in fig. 21, on the restricting piece 63a and the restricting projection 63b side, the flow path of the first-stage-side flow path 11 is not closed by the ball valve 62, and therefore the heat medium is allowed to flow from the eighth connection port 35h side toward the second connection port 35b side.

At this time, the spherical valve 62 abuts against the regulating piece 63a or the regulating projection 63b, and the movement accompanying the flow of the heat medium is regulated, so that the spherical valve 62 does not flow out from the predetermined range in the first-stage side flow path 11 to the outside.

On the other hand, when the heat medium flows from the second connection port 35b side toward the eighth connection port 35h side, the heat medium having passed through the restriction piece 63a and the restriction protrusion 63b flows toward the holding hole 12a of the flow path resistance portion 12. At this time, the ball valve element 62 moves toward the holding hole 12a with the flow of the heat medium and is seated in the holding hole 12 a. That is, the holding hole 12a of the flow path resistance portion 12 is closed by the ball valve 62, and the flow of the heat medium from the second connection port 35b side to the eighth connection port 35h side is prohibited.

That is, the first to third heat medium check valves 60a to 60c in the third embodiment are constituted by the first-stage side flow passage 11 from the flow passage resistance portion 12 to the regulating piece 63a and the regulating protrusion 63b, and the ball valve 62. This allows the heat medium check valve 60 to have the same function as the heat medium check valve 60 of the first embodiment, and to have a more compact structure.

In other words, the first-stage side flow path 11 from the flow path resistance portion 12 to the regulating piece 63a and the regulating protrusion 63b corresponds to the valve body case 61 in the first embodiment. The regulating piece 63a and the regulating projection 63b correspond to the regulating pin 63 in the first embodiment. The holding hole 12a of the flow path resistance portion 12 is the flow path hole 61a in the first embodiment, and constitutes a valve seat on which the ball valve 62 is seated. That is, the flow path resistance portion 12 holds the spherical valve element 62 as a functional component.

As shown in fig. 20, the joint surface 12b is also formed in the flow path resistance portion 12 of the third embodiment. The joint surface 12b of the channel resistance section 12 is configured to connect the surface on one surface side of the main body member 5 so as to cross the first-stage channel 11. As shown in fig. 20, when the first-layer side cover member 20 is attached to one surface side of the main body member 5, the attachment surface 12b abuts against the surface of the first-layer side cover member 20.

Therefore, according to the flow path switching device 1, when the first-layer side cover member 20 and the main body member 5 are joined by laser welding or the like, the joining can be performed via the joining surface 12b of the flow path resistance portion 12. Thus, in the flow switching device 1, the strength of bonding between the first-layer side cover member 20 and the main body member 5 can be increased by using the plurality of bonding surfaces 12 b.

Further, since the bonding surface 12b is formed as a surface on one side of the connecting body member 5, when laser welding or the like is employed, the setting of the focal length or the like can be changed to the minimum, and a continuous bonding operation can be performed.

As described above, according to the flow channel switching device 1 of the third embodiment, even when the configurations of the flow channel resistance section 12, the first heat medium check valve 60a, and the like are changed, the operational effects of the configuration and the operation common to those of the first embodiment can be obtained as in the first embodiment.

In the third embodiment, the description has been made of the case where the flow channel switching device 1 of the first embodiment is applied to the third embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. That is, the configurations of the flow path resistance section 12, the first heat medium check valve 60a, and the like in the third embodiment can be applied to the flow path switching device 1 of the second embodiment.

In the third embodiment, the restricting piece 63a of the first-stage-side cover member 20 and the restricting projection 63b formed on the first-stage-side flow path 11 side of the body member 5 are used as a structure for restricting the movement range of the ball valve 62, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. Either one of the restricting piece 63a and the restricting projection 63b may be used. The projecting direction of the restricting projection 63b need not be the open side of the first-stage side flow path 11, and may be a structure projecting from the inner wall surface of the first-stage side flow path 11 in parallel with the bottom surface as long as the movement of the ball valve 62 can be restricted.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as follows.

In the above-described embodiment, the first-layer-side flow channel forming section 10 is provided on one surface side of the body member 5 in the flow channel switching device 1, and the second-layer-side flow channel forming section 15 is provided on the other surface side. The first-layer-side flow-path forming section 10 and the second-layer-side flow-path forming section 15 may be configured as separate members. In addition, either one of the first-layer side flow channel 11 of the first-layer side flow channel forming section 10 and the second-layer side flow channel 16 of the second-layer side flow channel forming section 15 may be configured by a plurality of heat medium pipes.

In the above-described embodiment, the first-layer-side flow passage 11 and the second-layer-side flow passage 16 are formed in the groove shape on the surface of the body member 5, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. The first-layer-side flow channel-forming section 10 and the second-layer-side flow channel-forming section 15, which are arranged in a stacked manner, may be formed with the first-layer-side flow channel 11 and the second-layer-side flow channel 16, respectively, and the method of forming the first-layer-side flow channel 11 and the like can be changed as appropriate.

In the above-described embodiment, as shown in fig. 7, 9, and the like, the first-layer side cover member 20 and the second-layer side cover member 25 are formed in a flat plate shape, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The first-layer side cover member 20 and the second-layer side cover member 25 may be provided with surfaces facing the body member 5.

For example, a concave portion formed in the same pattern as the first-layer side flow path 11 may be provided on the surface of the first-layer side cover member 20 facing the main body member 5. The recessed portion on the lid member side and the groove shape on the main body member 5 side ensure a flow path area of the first-stage-side flow path and the like, and can improve the strength as the lid member.

In the above-described embodiment, as shown in fig. 5, the positioning recessed portion 17 formed on the other surface side of the main body member 5 and the positioning pin 27 formed on the second layer side cover member 25 cooperate with each other to function as a positioning portion, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

For example, the positioning pins may be provided in the second-layer-side flow-path forming section 15 and the positioning recesses may be provided in the second-layer-side cover member 25. Further, the present invention is not limited to the combination of the pins and the recesses, and various forms such as ribs and grooves may be employed as long as the second-layer-side flow passage forming section 15 and the second-layer-side cover member 25 can be positioned according to the shape specification of the structure.

In the above-described embodiment, the heat insulating portion 13 is provided between the closely arranged channels in the first-layer side channel 11 and the second-layer side channel 16, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown in fig. 15. For example, in the heat medium three-way valve 70, the heat insulating portion 13 may be formed between a flow path extending from the first communication passage 75a to the first heat medium outlet 76 and a flow path extending from the second communication passage 75b to the second heat medium outlet 77.

In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the flow path switching device 1 of the present invention is applied to the heat medium circuit 50 in the vehicle air conditioner with an in-vehicle equipment cooling function has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

The flow path switching device 1 of the present invention is not limited to the heat medium circuit for the vehicle, and may be applied to a heat medium circuit of a stationary air conditioner or the like. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a heat medium circuit of an air conditioner or the like with a server cooling function that performs air conditioning of a room in which a server (computer) is housed while appropriately adjusting the temperature of the server.

In the above-described embodiment, the valve portions 73 of the first heat medium three-way valve 70a, the second heat medium three-way valve 70b, the third heat medium three-way valve 70c, and the heat medium on-off valve 78 are used as the plurality of valve portions 73 in the flow path switching device 1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As long as the flow path structure in the heat medium circuit 50 can be switched, another structure such as a combination of a plurality of opening/closing valves may be employed.

In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the ethylene glycol aqueous solution is used as the heat medium in the heat medium circuit 50 has been described, but the heat medium is not limited thereto. For example, a solution containing dimethylpolysiloxane, a nanofluid, or the like, an antifreeze, or the like can be used as the heat medium.

In the above-described embodiment, the holding hole 12a is formed in the flow path resistance portion 12, and the flow path cross-sectional area of the first-stage-side flow path 11 is changed so as to be reduced. Various methods can be employed as long as the flow path resistance of the heat medium can be increased by changing the flow path cross-sectional area. For example, the cross-sectional area of the flow path may be rapidly increased, and the vortex of the heat medium may be generated in the enlarged portion to increase the flow path resistance.

While the invention has been described in terms of embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments, constructions. The present invention also includes various modifications and modifications within an equivalent range. In addition, various combinations, forms, even other combinations, forms including only one element, including more than one or less than one, also fall within the scope or spirit of the present invention.