CN117870223A

CN117870223A - Electronic expansion valve and thermal management assembly

Info

Publication number: CN117870223A
Application number: CN202410050465.1A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 万轩臣; 张俊新; 熊建军
Original assignee: Valeo Automotive Air Conditioning Hubei Co Ltd
Current assignee: Valeo Automotive Air Conditioning Hubei Co Ltd
Priority date: 2020-05-19
Filing date: 2020-05-19
Publication date: 2024-04-12
Also published as: CN113758065A

Abstract

The invention relates to an electronic expansion valve and a thermal management assembly. In the invention, as the valve component and the main electric control plate are respectively positioned at different sides of the valve body, the main control cavity of the main shell can have larger extension space at one side of the valve body where the main electric control plate is arranged, so that the main control cavity can accommodate the main electric control plate with larger size; the larger main electric control board can integrate more electronic devices, which is very beneficial to realizing intelligent control of the electronic expansion valve. Therefore, the electronic expansion valve provided by the invention has the advantage of reasonable position arrangement of parts. The invention provides a thermal management assembly comprising the electronic expansion valve.

Description

Electronic expansion valve and thermal management assembly

The present application is a divisional application of the chinese invention application 202010425562.6, the application date of the chinese invention application 202010425562.6 is the year 2020, 5, month and 19, and the name of the chinese invention application 202010425562.6 is "an electronic expansion valve and thermal management assembly".

Technical Field

The invention relates to an electronic expansion valve and a thermal management assembly.

Background

Conventional air conditioning systems include four major components, namely a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser, and a throttle device. The restriction may include an expansion valve and a capillary tube depending on the different needs of the air conditioning system. Expansion valves can be classified into thermal expansion valves and electronic expansion valves according to driving principles. The electronic expansion valves may be classified into electromagnetic driven electronic expansion valves and motor driven electronic expansion valves according to driving modes.

Automotive air conditioning systems include the four major components described above, and in terms of throttle devices, automotive air conditioning systems typically use an expansion valve as the throttle device. Chinese patent application CN101551174a discloses an automotive air conditioning system that uses a thermostatic expansion valve as a throttle device. In other prior art, electronic expansion valves are also used as throttle devices in automotive air conditioning systems.

As the automobile industry moves toward electromotive, automobiles using a power battery as a driving source are becoming more and more popular. The power battery generates heat during charge and discharge, resulting in an increase in the temperature of the battery. As known from the technical solution described in chinese patent application CN101551174a, maintaining the battery temperature stable can be achieved by providing a refrigerant branch for battery cooling in the vehicle air conditioning system. An electronic expansion valve can be arranged on the refrigerant branch to realize the throttling process of the refrigerant.

The electronic expansion valve in the prior art comprises a valve body, a valve assembly, a sensor and an electric control plate. The electronic expansion valve in the prior art has the defect of unstable installation of the valve assembly.

Disclosure of Invention

The invention aims to provide an electronic expansion valve, which has the advantage of reasonable position arrangement of parts.

The invention also aims to provide a thermal management assembly which comprises the electronic expansion valve.

An electronic expansion valve for achieving the object, comprising: a valve body having a first refrigerant inlet and a first refrigerant outlet, wherein a first refrigerant channel is formed between the first refrigerant inlet and the first refrigerant outlet; a valve assembly for throttling refrigerant within said first refrigerant passage; the valve assembly includes a coil assembly; the main electric control plate is electrically connected with the coil assembly of the valve assembly; the electronic expansion valve further includes: a housing assembly including a main housing; the main shell is provided with a main control cavity; the main electric control plate is arranged in the main control cavity; the valve assembly and the main electric control plate are respectively positioned on different sides of the valve body; the valve assembly sensor is electrically connected with the main electric control board; the valve assembly sensor is used for detecting the valve assembly; the valve assembly sensor is disposed within the primary control chamber.

The heat management assembly for achieving the purpose comprises a heat exchanger, wherein the heat exchanger is provided with a first heat exchange channel and a second heat exchange channel; the first heat exchange channel and the second heat exchange channel are not communicated with each other, and the heat management assembly is characterized by further comprising the electronic expansion valve; the electronic expansion valve is arranged on the heat exchanger, wherein the electronic expansion valve is communicated with the first heat exchange channel.

The invention has the positive progress effects that: the valve assembly and the main electric control plate are respectively positioned on different sides of the valve body, so that the main control cavity of the main shell can have larger extension space on the side of the valve body, on which the main electric control plate is arranged, and the main control cavity can accommodate the main electric control plate with larger size; the larger main electric control board can integrate more electronic devices, which is very beneficial to realizing intelligent control of the electronic expansion valve. Therefore, the electronic expansion valve provided by the invention has the advantage of reasonable position arrangement of parts. The invention provides a thermal management assembly comprising the electronic expansion valve.

Drawings

The above and other features, properties and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an automotive air conditioning system;

FIGS. 2A to 2D are schematic views showing an electronic expansion valve according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 3 is an exploded view of an electronic expansion valve in a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the direction A-A in FIG. 2C, wherein the dashed arrows illustrate the flow path of the refrigerant;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the direction B-B in FIG. 2D;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the direction C-C in FIG. 2C;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the direction D-D in FIG. 2D;

fig. 8A to 8B are schematic views of a main casing in a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 9A to 9C are schematic views of a valve body;

FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view of the valve body;

FIGS. 10A to 10D are schematic views showing an electronic expansion valve in a second embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 11 is an exploded view of an electronic expansion valve in a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the direction E-E in FIG. 10C;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the direction F-F in FIG. 10D;

fig. 14A to 14B are schematic views of a main casing in a second embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 15A to 15B are schematic views of a sub-housing in a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 16A to 16D are schematic views showing an electronic expansion valve in a third embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 17 is an exploded view of an electronic expansion valve in a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along the direction G-G in FIG. 16C;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view in the J-J direction of FIG. 16D;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along the H-H direction in FIG. 16C;

fig. 21A to 21B are schematic views of a main casing in a third embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 22A to 22B are schematic views of a sub-housing in a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic expansion valve showing the connection of the main housing, the sensor and the valve body with the opening of the main housing facing away from the valve body;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic expansion valve showing the connection of the main housing, the sensor and the valve body with the opening of the main housing facing the valve body;

fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor.

Detailed Description

The following discloses various embodiments or examples of the subject technology of the different implementations. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below for purposes of simplifying the disclosure, and of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. For example, a first feature described later in this specification may be distributed over a second feature, and may include embodiments in which the first and second features are distributed in a direct relationship, and may also include embodiments in which additional features are formed between the first and second features, such that no direct relationship between the first and second features is possible. In addition, the reference numerals and/or letters may be repeated in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed. Further, where a first element is described as being coupled or combined with a second element, the description includes embodiments in which the first and second elements are directly coupled or combined with each other, and also includes embodiments in which one or more other intervening elements are added to indirectly couple or combine the first and second elements with each other.

It should be noted that fig. 1 to 25 are only examples, which are not drawn to scale, and should not be taken as limiting the scope of protection actually required by the present invention.

Fig. 1 illustrates an automotive air conditioning system 900 in one embodiment of the invention. The vehicle air conditioning system 900 includes a compressor 90, a condenser 91, electronic expansion valves 92, 94, an evaporator 93, a heat exchanger 95, a pump 96, a battery module 97, a line for refrigerant flow, and a line for coolant flow. These lines communicate the various portions of the vehicle air conditioning system 900.

The evaporator 93 and the electronic expansion valve 92 constitute a thermal management assembly. The electronic expansion valve 92 is mounted on the evaporator 93 and is integrated with the evaporator 93. The evaporator 93 has an evaporator passage 93a, and the refrigerant flows in the evaporator passage 93 a. The evaporator passage 93a communicates with the electronic expansion valve 92.

The heat exchanger 95 and the electronic expansion valve 94 constitute a heat management assembly, and the electronic expansion valve 94 is mounted on the heat exchanger 95 and integrated with the heat exchanger 95. The heat exchanger 95 has a first heat exchange passage 95a and a second heat exchange passage 95b; the first heat exchange passage 95a and the second heat exchange passage 95b are not in communication with each other. The first heat exchange passage 95a is provided with a refrigerant, and the second heat exchange passage 95b is provided with a coolant. The first heat exchanging channel 95a communicates with the electronic expansion valve 94, and the second heat exchanging channel 95b communicates with a circuit provided with the pump 96 and the battery module 97.

During operation of the automotive air conditioning system 900, heat generated by the battery module 97 is carried away by the coolant and follows the coolant into the second heat exchange passage 95b of the heat exchanger 95. The refrigerant is throttled by the electronic expansion valve 94, flows out of the electronic expansion valve 94, and enters the first heat exchange passage 95a in a low-temperature low-pressure state. In the heat exchanger 95, heat in the coolant in the second heat exchange passage 95b is absorbed by the refrigerant in the first heat exchange passage 95a, thereby enabling the automotive air conditioning system 900 to perform a cooling process for the battery module 97.

The refrigerant is throttled by the electronic expansion valve 92, flows out of the electronic expansion valve 92, and enters the evaporator passage 93a in a low-temperature low-pressure state. The evaporator 93 allows an air stream to blow through from outside the evaporator channels 93a to absorb heat in the air stream, thereby cooling the air stream. The cooled air stream may be fed into a vehicle cabin to condition the hot and humid environment within the cabin.

Fig. 2A to 2D and fig. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8A, 8B show a first embodiment of an electronic expansion valve 92, 94 in the present invention. In this embodiment, the electronic expansion valve 92, 94 includes a valve body 1, a valve assembly 2, a refrigerant sensor 31, a main electronic control board 4, and a housing assembly 5.

Referring to fig. 2A to 2D, 4 and 9A to 9D, the valve body 1 is shaped as a block having three sets of respective opposite sides in space. In the internal configuration, the valve body 1 has a first refrigerant inlet 1a and a first refrigerant outlet 1b, wherein a first refrigerant passage 11 penetrating the valve body 1 is formed between the first refrigerant inlet 1a and the first refrigerant outlet 1 b. The first refrigerant inlet 1a and the first refrigerant outlet 1b are preferably provided on opposite sides of the valve body 1. In an embodiment not shown, the first refrigerant inlet 1a and the first refrigerant outlet 1b may also be provided on the same side of the valve body 1, or the first refrigerant inlet 1a and the first refrigerant outlet 1b may also be provided on adjacent sides of the valve body 1. The first refrigerant outlet 1b communicates with an inlet of the evaporator passage 93a or an inlet of the first heat exchange passage 95 a.

In order to enable the valve assembly 2 to throttle the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11, the valve body 1 is preferably provided with a first installation chamber 15 on a side where the first refrigerant inlet 1a and the first refrigerant outlet 1b are not provided. The first installation chamber 15 extends from the outer surface of the valve body 1 toward the inside of the valve body 1, and communicates with the first refrigerant passage 11. The valve assembly 2 is inserted into the first mounting chamber 15, and at least a portion of the valve assembly 2 is positioned in the first refrigerant passage 11 to throttle the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11.

As shown in fig. 3, 4, 5, the valve assembly 2 includes a coil assembly 21 and a spool assembly 22. One end of the valve cartridge assembly 22 is inserted into the first installation chamber 15 of the valve body 1 and protrudes into the first refrigerant passage 11. The portion of the spool assembly 22 inserted into the valve body 1 is fixed to the valve body 1. The other end of the spool assembly 22 is exposed to the outside of the valve body 1. The coil assembly 21 is provided outside the valve body 1 and is sleeved on the spool assembly 22. The coil assembly 21 is electrically connected with the main electric control board 4, and when the electric current is supplied, the coil assembly 21 can drive the valve core assembly 22 to move, so that the valve core assembly 22 realizes a throttling process of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant channel 11. In an embodiment not shown, the valve assembly 2 may also be an electromagnetically driven valve assembly.

The valve cartridge assembly 22 includes a valve seat 221, a valve cartridge 222, a connection seat 224, a rotor assembly 223, and a cover 225 that fit together along the axis of the valve assembly 2 (shown in phantom in fig. 3). The valve seat 221 has a valve hole 221a, and a portion of the valve seat 221 having the valve hole 221a is disposed inside the valve body 1 and is located in the first refrigerant passage 11. The valve seat 221 is fixed to the valve body 1, and the connection seat 224 may be welded to the valve body 1 and the valve seat 221, respectively. Rotor assembly 223 and housing 225 are each coupled to a coupling seat 224. The rotor assembly 223 comprises a permanent magnet which is rotatable about the axis of the valve assembly 2 under the influence of an excitation magnetic field generated by the energized coil assembly 21. The rotor assembly 223 also includes a transmission assembly that converts the rotation of the permanent magnets into movement along the axis of the valve assembly 2.

The valve spool 222 is slidably fitted in the valve seat 221. The permanent magnet of the rotor assembly 223 is used to be driven by the energized coil assembly 21, and the valve core 222 is driven by the transmission assembly to move along the axis of the valve assembly 2 relative to the valve seat 221, thereby adjusting the opening degree of the valve hole 221 a. When the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11 passes through the valve hole 221a having a smaller opening degree, the refrigerant is throttled.

In order to improve the integration of the thermal management assembly, the valve body 1 further has a second refrigerant inlet 1c and a second refrigerant outlet 1d, and a second refrigerant passage 12 penetrating the valve body 1 is formed between the second refrigerant inlet 1c and the second refrigerant outlet 1d, the second refrigerant passage 12 being not in communication with the first refrigerant passage 11. Such a design may be such that the valve body 1 forms part of the refrigerant outlet flow path of the evaporator 93 or the heat exchanger 95. In this embodiment, the second refrigerant inlet 1c communicates with the outlet of the evaporator passage 93a or the outlet of the second heat exchange passage 95 b.

The second refrigerant inlet 1c and the second refrigerant outlet 1d are preferably provided on opposite sides of the valve body 1. In a more specific embodiment, the first refrigerant inlet 1a and the second refrigerant outlet 1d are preferably provided on the same side of the valve body 1, and the first refrigerant outlet 1b and the second refrigerant inlet 1c are preferably provided on the same side of the valve body 1. In an embodiment not shown, the second refrigerant inlet 1c and the second refrigerant outlet 1d may also be provided on the same side of the valve body 1, or the second refrigerant inlet 1c and the second refrigerant outlet 1d may also be provided on adjacent sides of the valve body 1.

In order to enable the refrigerant sensor 31 to detect the refrigerant in the second refrigerant passage 12, the valve body 1 is preferably provided with the second installation chamber 16 on the side where the second refrigerant inlet 1c and the second refrigerant outlet 1d are not provided. The second mounting chamber 16 extends from the outer surface of the valve body 1 toward the inside of the valve body 1, and communicates with the second refrigerant passage 12. The refrigerant sensor 31 is inserted into the second mounting chamber 16, and at least a portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 is located in the second refrigerant passage 12 to detect the refrigerant in the second refrigerant passage 12.

The refrigerant sensor 31 is preferably a temperature pressure sensor, which integrates a temperature detection function and a pressure detection function. Structurally, the refrigerant sensor 31 has a temperature detecting portion 31a and a pressure detecting portion 31b provided in parallel. As shown in fig. 4 and 25, the temperature detecting portion 31a and the pressure detecting portion 31b are provided back and forth in the flow direction of the refrigerant, and the temperature detecting portion 31a is preferably provided upstream of the pressure detecting portion 31b. The temperature detecting portion 31a and the pressure detecting portion 31b are preferably disposed in alignment with the center line of the second refrigerant passage 12. Such a design helps to reduce the length that the refrigerant sensor 31 has in the direction of insertion into the valve body 1.

As shown in fig. 3 and 5, in the arrangement orientation, the refrigerant sensor 31 may be disposed on different sides of the valve body 1 than the valve assembly 2, for example, on adjacent sides of the valve body 1. Correspondingly, the first installation chamber 15 and the second installation chamber 16 are respectively arranged on different sides of the valve body 1. In the embodiment not shown, the refrigerant sensor 31 may be provided on the same side of the valve body 1 as the valve assembly 2, and the first installation chamber 15 and the second installation chamber 16 may be provided on the same side of the valve body 1.

With continued reference to fig. 3 and 5, the main electronic control board 4 is electrically connected to the valve assembly 2 and the refrigerant sensor 31, respectively. The refrigerant sensor 31 detects the refrigerant in the second refrigerant passage 12 to generate detection signals such as a temperature signal and a pressure signal; the main electronic control board 4 can receive the detection signal. The main electronic control board 4 is further arranged to send a driving signal to the valve assembly 2 to drive the valve assembly 2 in motion, thereby effecting a throttling of the refrigerant in the first refrigerant channel 11. More specifically, the main electronic control board 4 also has a microprocessor capable of processing the detection signal generated by the refrigerant sensor 31 and generating the above-described driving signal.

The electrical connection may be made by pins or flexible conductive elements, such as flexible flat cables. The electrical connection includes a detachable electrical connection. As shown in fig. 3 and 5, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 include the flexible conductive member 41; the flexible conductive member 41 detachably and electrically connects the refrigerant sensor 31 and the main electronic control board 4. For example, one end of the flexible conductive member 41 is provided to be snap-coupled and electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4, and the other end is welded to the refrigerant sensor 31. In the embodiment shown in fig. 3 and 5, the valve assembly 2 is electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4 by pins.

As shown in fig. 3 and 5, the main electronic control board 4 may be disposed on the same side of the valve body 1 as the refrigerant sensor 31 in the disposed orientation. In fig. 5, the main electronic control board 4 is disposed side by side with the refrigerant sensor 31 and is detachably electrically connected through the flexible conductive member 41. The side-by-side arrangement of the main electronic control board 4 and the refrigerant sensor 31 contributes to a more compact structure of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94.

In an embodiment not shown, the main electric control board 4 and the refrigerant sensor 31 may also be disposed on different sides of the valve body 1, for example, the main electric control board 4 and the refrigerant sensor 31 are disposed on adjacent sides of the valve body 1, respectively.

With continued reference to fig. 2A, 2B, 3, 5 and 6, the main electronic control board 4 is housed in the housing assembly 5, and the refrigerant sensor 31 is attached to the housing assembly 5, more specifically, the refrigerant sensor 31 is pressed against the housing assembly 5. Such a design helps to improve the stability of the installation of the refrigerant sensor 31 and makes the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 compact.

With continued reference to fig. 5, the housing assembly 5 includes a main housing 51; the main housing 51 has a main control chamber 51a; the main electronic control board 4 is disposed in the main control chamber 51 a. The valve assembly 2 and the main electric control plate 4 are located on different sides of the valve body 1, respectively. Such a design enables the main control chamber 51a to have a larger extension space on the side of the valve body 1 where the main electric control board 4 is provided, so that the main control chamber 51a can accommodate the main electric control board 4 of a larger size; the larger size of the main electronic control board 4 enables integration of more electronic devices, which is very advantageous for realizing intelligent control of the electronic expansion valve.

With continued reference to fig. 5, more specifically, the valve assembly 2 and the main electronic control board 4 are located on adjacent sides of the valve body 1, respectively. This helps to improve the compactness of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94. Preferably, the valve assembly 2 and the main electronic control board 4 are respectively located at two adjacent sides of the valve body 1, which are not provided with refrigerant inlets and outlets.

In an embodiment not shown, the valve assembly 2, the main electric control plate 4 and the refrigerant sensor 31 may be located at three different sides of the valve body 1, respectively, where the refrigerant inlet and outlet are not opened.

The electronic expansion valves 92, 94 have mounting locations, which may be orientations of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 after they are mounted on the automobile. The installation position is also the position that the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 have when in operation. In order to avoid accumulation of refrigerant and its contained lubricating oil and impurities in the valve assembly 2, the valve assembly 2 is located on the upper side of the valve body 1 with reference to the vertical direction, with respect to the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 in the installed position. This design allows the refrigerant entering the housing 225 of the valve assembly 2 during operation of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 to flow out of the housing 225 under the force of gravity after the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 cease to operate, thereby avoiding the refrigerant from lodging within the valve assembly 2. In this installed position, the angle of the axis of the valve assembly 2 to the vertical should be less than 90 °, preferably less than or equal to 75 °.

With continued reference to fig. 3, 4, 5, 7, the electronic expansion valve 92, 94 further includes a valve assembly sensor 32, 33; the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4; the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are used to detect the valve assembly 2. The valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are disposed within the main control chamber 51 a. Any sensor that can detect the various parts of the valve assembly and generate a feedback signal falls within the scope of the valve assembly sensors 32, 33. For example, the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 may be hall sensors that detect changes in the magnetic field of the permanent magnets of the rotor assembly 223, or may be position sensors that detect movement of the valve spool 222 along the axis of the valve assembly 2. The valve assembly sensors 32, 33 may detect abnormal operating conditions of the valve assembly 2, such as out-of-step, locked-rotor.

The hall sensor is capable of sensing a change in the magnetic field of the permanent magnet of the rotor assembly 223 and generating a feedback signal. The feedback signal is transmitted to the microprocessor of the main electronic control board 4.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, the refrigerant sensor 31, the main casing 51, and the valve body 1 are stacked and integrally connected in the stacking direction; wherein one of the main housing 51 and the refrigerant sensor 31 is clamped between the valve body 1 and the other of the main housing 51 and the refrigerant sensor 31. Such a design helps to reduce the assembly steps of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 and makes the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 compact.

With continued reference to fig. 6, the refrigerant sensor 31, the main housing 51, and the valve body 1, which are stacked, are integrally connected by a sensor connector 71. The sensor connection 71 may be a screw. The sensor connector 71 penetrates at least one of the main housing 51 and the refrigerant sensor 31, and is fixedly connected with the valve body 1.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 6, the main casing 51 is sandwiched between the refrigerant sensor 31 and the valve body 1, and the sensor connector 71 penetrates the refrigerant sensor 31 and the main casing 51.

In an embodiment not shown, the part of the refrigerant sensor 31 located inside the valve body 1 is screwed with the valve body 1, and the part of the refrigerant sensor 31 located outside the valve body presses the main housing 51 against the valve body 1.

Referring to fig. 3, 4, 5, 8A, 8B, the housing assembly 5 further includes a main cover 52; the main housing 51 has a main opening 51b, the main opening 51b communicating with the main control chamber 51a; the main opening 51b may be directed away from the valve body 1 and allow the main electric control board 4 to enter the main control chamber 51a; the main cover 52 is for covering the main casing 51 to close the main opening 51b.

With continued reference to fig. 3, 4, 5, 8A, 8B, the main seal 81 is disposed along the circumferential direction of the main opening 51B and is clamped between the main cover 52 and the main housing 51 to seal the main opening 51B. One of the main housing 51 and the main cover 52 may be provided with a groove accommodating the main seal 81.

With continued reference to fig. 3, 4, 5, 8A, 8B, the main housing 51 has a sensor bore 51c, the sensor bore 51c communicating with the main control chamber 51 a; the refrigerant sensor 31 penetrates the sensor hole 51c; wherein a part of the refrigerant sensor 31 is located in the main control chamber 51a and is electrically connected with the main electronic control board 4; another portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 is located outside the main control chamber 51a and is used to detect the refrigerant in the second refrigerant passage 12. The portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 located in the main control chamber 51a is pressed against the main casing 51.

As shown in fig. 3 and 6, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a sensor seal 82, the sensor seal 82 being disposed along the circumference of the sensor hole 51c; the sensor seal 82 is clamped between the refrigerant sensor 31 and the main casing 51 to seal the sensor hole 51c.

To effect securement of the valve assembly 2, as shown in fig. 3, 4, and 7, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a valve assembly connector 72; the valve assembly connector 72 is provided to be inserted into the valve body 1 from a side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is not provided, and to be in a limit fit with a portion of the valve assembly 2 located within the valve body 1, thereby fixing the valve assembly 2 to the valve body 1. Such a design allows for easy assembly of the valve assembly 2 to the valve body 1 and the valve assembly connector 72 does not interfere with the valve assembly 2 during insertion into the valve body 1.

More specifically, the valve assembly connector 72 is provided to be inserted into the valve body 1 from the side of the valve body 1 where the main electric control board 4 is provided. The valve assembly connector 72 may be a latch.

As shown in fig. 4, 5, 7, 8A, 8B, the main housing 51 has a drive chamber 51d and a valve assembly hole 51e, the valve assembly hole 51e communicating with the drive chamber 51 d; the valve assembly 2 extends through the valve assembly aperture 51e; wherein a portion of the valve assembly 2 is located within the drive chamber 51d and is electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4; another portion of the valve assembly 2 is located outside the main control chamber 51a and serves to throttle the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11.

With continued reference to fig. 4 and 5, the coil assembly 21 is secured as an insert within the drive chamber 51d by an injection molding process. The spool assembly 22 is inserted into the drive chamber 51d through the valve assembly hole 51e and interposed between the coil assemblies 21. The coil block 21 is electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4 in the main control chamber 51a by a pin which penetrates the partition wall of the drive chamber 51d and the main control chamber 51a as an insert in the injection molding process. The valve seat 221 and the valve spool 222 are disposed outside the drive chamber 51 d.

As shown in fig. 3, 4, 5, the valve assembly seal 83 is provided along the circumferential direction of the valve assembly hole 51e; the valve assembly seal 83 is clamped between the valve assembly 2 and the main housing 51 to seal the valve assembly aperture 51e. The valve assembly seal 83 is pressed by the main housing 51 against the cover 225 of the valve assembly 2 in the radial direction of the valve assembly 2. More specifically, the valve assembly seal 83 is compressed at the seam of the cover 225 and the connection seat 224.

As shown in fig. 7, the main control chamber 51a has a first chamber portion 51a-1, a second chamber portion 51a-2, and a corner chamber portion 51a-3; the first and second chamber portions 51a-1 and 51a-2 are located on different sides of the valve body 1, respectively; the corner cavity portion 51a-3 extends from the side of the valve body 1 where the first cavity portion 51a-1 is provided, around one corner of the valve body 1, to the side of the valve body 1 where the second cavity portion 51a-2 is provided; wherein a part of the main electric control board 4 is located in the first cavity portion 51a-1 and another part is located in the corner cavity portion 51 a-3. This design increases the volume of the main control chamber 51a so that the main electronic control board 4 has a larger extension space. One corner of the valve body 1 refers to the junction of the outer surfaces of two adjacent sides of the valve body 1.

In addition, the valve assembly 2 is electrically connected to a portion of the main electronic control board 4 located within the corner cavity portion 51 a-3. This design allows for a shorter length of pin required to make the electrical connection.

The second chamber portion 51a-2 is located on the side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is provided; the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are disposed in the second cavity portion 51 a-2. The valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are electrically connected to the portion of the main electronic control board 4 located within the corner cavity portion 51 a-3. More specifically, referring to fig. 7, the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are mounted on and electrically connected to connection circuit boards 401, 402, which connection circuit boards 401, 402 are disposed in the main control chamber 51a and fixedly connected to the main housing 51, 401, 402 being electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4 through pins.

As shown in fig. 5 and 7, the main housing 51 extends from one side of the valve body 1 to the other side of the valve body 1 by bypassing one corner of the valve body 1. More specifically, the main housing 51 extends from the side of the valve body 1 where the main electric control board 4 is provided, bypassing one corner of the valve body 1, to the side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is provided. This arrangement improves the integrity of the main housing 51 and facilitates assembly and manufacture of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94.

As shown in fig. 3, 5, and 7, the electronic expansion valve 92, 94 further includes a housing connector 73; the housing connector 73 connects the main housing 51 and the valve body 1; wherein one end of the housing connecting member 73 is connected to the main housing 51 at a side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is provided, and the other end of the housing connecting member 73 is connected to the valve body 1 at a side opposite to the side of the valve body 1 where the main electric control board 4 is provided. The provision of the housing connector 73 improves the stability of the connection of the main housing 51 to the valve body 1.

As shown in fig. 3, 8, 9A to 9D, the side of the valve body 1 on which the refrigerant sensor 31 is provided has a first flat portion 13 and a first convex portion 14; wherein the first protrusion 14 protrudes from the first flat portion 13 in a direction opposite to a direction in which the sensor 31 is inserted into the valve body 1; the sensor 31 is arranged to be inserted into the first boss 14. The second mounting cavity 16 opens onto the first boss 14. This design allows the first boss 14 to have a sufficient thickness to mate with the attachment of the fixed refrigerant sensor 31. The first boss 14 is provided with a connection hole 14a for connecting the refrigerant sensor 31, and the connection hole 14a is used for being in plug-in fit with a connector for fixing the refrigerant sensor 31.

The main housing 51 has a second flat portion 511 and a second convex portion 512 on a side thereof close to the valve body 1; wherein the second protrusion portion 512 protrudes from the second flat portion 511 in a direction consistent with a direction in which the sensor 31 is inserted into the valve body 1; the second flat portion 511 is disposed opposite to the first convex portion 14; the second protruding portion 512 is disposed opposite to the first flat portion 13. This design helps to increase the volume of the main control chamber 51 a.

As shown in fig. 5 and 8B, the main electronic control board 4 may be fixed to the main casing 51. For example, the four corners of the main electronic control board 4 may be fixed to the main casing 51 by screws. This design helps to increase the stability of the installation of the main electronic control board 4 in the main control chamber 51 a. Fig. 8B shows a post hole 513 on the main housing 51 for fixing the main electronic control board 4.

As shown in fig. 3, 4, 5, and 6, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a first valve body seal 801, a second valve body seal 802, and a third valve body seal 803.

The first valve body seal 801 is provided in the second mounting chamber 16 of the valve body 1 and around the refrigerant sensor 31; the first valve body seal 801 is pressed by the valve body 1 and the refrigerant sensor 31.

The second valve body seal 802 and the third valve body seal 803 are disposed in the first mounting cavity 15, respectively, and around the valve assembly 2; the second valve body seal 802 and the third valve body seal 803 are compressed by the valve body 1 and the valve assembly 2, respectively.

More specifically, the second valve body seal 802 and the third valve body seal 803 are respectively disposed around the valve seat 221 of the valve assembly 2. The valve hole 221a of the valve seat 221 is located between the second valve body seal 802 and the third valve body seal 803 in the axial direction of the valve assembly 2. This ensures that the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11 can pass through the valve hole 221a entirely.

Fig. 10A to 10D and fig. 11, 12, 13, 14A, 14B, 15A, 15B show a second embodiment of an electronic expansion valve 92, 94 in the present invention. The same reference numerals are used for the same components in the second embodiment as those in the first embodiment, and the same parts of the second embodiment as those in the technical scheme of the first embodiment are not described again.

Referring to fig. 10A-10D and fig. 11, 12, 13, 15A, 15B, the housing assembly 5 further includes a sub-housing 53; the sub-housing 53 has a drive chamber 53a and a valve assembly hole 53b; the valve assembly bore 53b communicates with the drive chamber 53 a; the valve assembly 2 extends through the valve assembly aperture 53b; wherein a portion of the valve assembly 2 is located within the drive chamber 53a and is electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4; another portion of the valve assembly 2 is located outside the drive chamber 53a and serves to throttle the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11; the sub-housing 53 is detachably connected to the main housing 51. This arrangement allows for a high degree of modularity of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94, making the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 easy to disassemble.

With continued reference to fig. 12 and 13, the coil assembly 21 is secured as an insert within the drive chamber 53a by an injection molding process. The spool assembly 22 is inserted into the drive chamber 53a through the valve assembly hole 53b and interposed between the coil assemblies 21. The coil assembly 21 is electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4 in the main control chamber 51a through the flexible conductive member 42. The valve seat 221 and the valve spool 222 are disposed outside the drive chamber 53 a.

As shown in fig. 11, 12, 13, the valve assembly seal 84 is provided along the circumferential direction of the valve assembly hole 53 b; a valve assembly seal 84 is clamped between the valve assembly 2 and the sub-housing 53 to seal the valve assembly aperture 53b. The valve assembly seal 84 is pressed by the sub-housing 53 against the cover 225 of the valve assembly 2 in the radial direction of the valve assembly 2. More specifically, the valve assembly seal 84 is compressed at the seam of the cover 225 and the connection seat 224.

As shown in fig. 11, 12, 13, 14A, 14B, 15A, 15B, the sub-housing 53 further has a sub-control chamber 53c and a sub-connection opening 53d; the sub-connection opening 53d communicates with the sub-control chamber 53 c; the main housing 51 has a main connection opening 51f; the main connection opening 51f communicates with the main control chamber 51 a; the sub-connection opening 53d is provided in communication with the main connection opening 51f, thereby communicating the sub-control chamber 53c with the main control chamber 51 a. The flexible conductive member 42 penetrates the main connection opening 51f and the sub connection opening 53d to detachably and electrically connect the main electronic control board 4 and the valve assembly 2. The flexible conductive element 42 may be a flexible flat cable. One end of the flexible conductive member 42 is provided to be snap-fitted and electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4, and the other end is welded to the valve assembly 2.

With continued reference to fig. 12, 13, 15A, the secondary control chamber 53c and the primary control chamber 51a are located on different sides of the valve body 1, e.g., adjacent sides, respectively; wherein the main control chamber 51a is located at the side of the valve body 1 where the main electric control board 4 is located. The sub control chamber 53c is located on the side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is provided.

The housing assembly 5 further includes a secondary cover 54; the sub-housing 53 has a sub-opening 53e, the sub-opening 53e communicating with the sub-control chamber 53 c; the sub-cover 54 is used to cover the sub-housing 53 to close the sub-opening 53e. The sub-cover 54 and the sub-housing 53 may be welded.

The electronic expansion valves 92, 94 also include a connection seal 85; the connection seal 85 is provided along the circumferential direction of the sub connection opening 53d and the main connection opening 51 f; the connection seal 85 is clamped between the main casing 51 and the sub-casing 53 to seal the sub-connection opening 53d and the main connection opening 51f.

The valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are disposed within the secondary control chamber 53 c. The flexible conductive member 43 penetrates the main connection opening 51f and the sub connection opening 53d to detachably electrically connect the main electronic control board 4 and the valve assembly sensors 32, 33. More specifically, referring to fig. 13, the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are mounted on and electrically connected to the connection circuit boards 404, 405, 404, 405 provided in the sub control chamber 53c and fixedly connected to the main casing 51, and the connection circuit boards 404, 405 are electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4 through the flexible conductive members 43.

The flexible conductive member 43 may be a flexible flat cable. One end of the flexible conductive member 43 is provided to be snap-fitted and electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4, and the other end is soldered to the connection circuit boards 404, 405.

As shown in fig. 11, 13, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a housing connection 74; the housing connector 74 connects the sub-housing 53 and the valve body 1; wherein one end of the housing connecting member 74 is connected to the sub-housing 53 on the side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is provided, and the other end of the housing connecting member 74 is connected to the valve body 1 on the opposite side of the valve body 1 where the main electric control board 4 is provided. This arrangement can provide stability in the connection of the sub-housing 53 to the valve body 1.

As shown in fig. 11, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a housing assembly connection 75; the sub-housing 53 is detachably connected to the main housing 51 by a housing assembly connector 75. The housing assembly connector 75 may be a screw.

As shown in fig. 11, the main casing 51 has an interface portion 510. The interface 510 is electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4 through the connection circuit board 403. The interface 510 is for connection with the outside.

Fig. 16A to 16D and fig. 17, 18, 19, 20, 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B show a third embodiment of an electronic expansion valve 92, 94 in the present invention. The same reference numerals are used for the same components in the third embodiment as those in the first embodiment, and the same parts of the third embodiment as those in the technical solution of the first embodiment are not described again.

As shown in fig. 16A to 16D and fig. 17, 22A, 22B, the housing assembly 5 further includes a sub-housing 55; the sub-housing 55 has a sub-control chamber 55a and a sensor hole 55b; the sensor hole 55b communicates with the sub control chamber 55 a; the refrigerant sensor 31 penetrates the sensor hole 55b; wherein a part of the refrigerant sensor 31 is located in the sub control chamber 55a and is electrically connected with the main electronic control board 4; another portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 is located outside the sub-control chamber 55a and is used to detect the refrigerant in the second refrigerant passage 12; the sub-housing 55 is detachably connected to the main housing 51. This arrangement allows for a high degree of modularity of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94, making the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 easy to disassemble.

The portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 located in the sub control chamber 55a is pressed against the sub housing 55.

Referring to fig. 17, 19, 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B, the sub-housing 55 further has a sub-connection opening 55c; the sub-connection opening 55c communicates with the sub-control chamber 55 a; the main housing 51 has a main connection opening 51g; the main connection opening 51g communicates with the main control chamber 51 a; the sub-connection opening 55c is provided in communication with the main connection opening 51g, thereby communicating the sub-control chamber 55a with the main control chamber 51 a. The flexible conductive member 41 penetrates the main connection opening 51g and the sub connection opening 55c to detachably electrically connect the main electronic control board 4 and the refrigerant sensor 31. The flexible conductive member 41 may be a flexible flat cable. One end of the flexible conductive member 41 is provided to be snap-coupled and electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4, and the other end is welded to the refrigerant sensor 31.

With continued reference to fig. 19, the secondary control chamber 55a and the primary control chamber 51a are both located on the side of the valve body 1 where the primary control plate 4 is located. The sub control chamber 55a is provided side by side with the main control chamber 51 a.

As shown in fig. 17 and 20, the housing assembly 5 further includes a sub-cover 56; the sub-housing 55 has a sub-opening 55d, the sub-opening 55d communicating with the sub-control chamber 55 a; the sub-cover 56 is used to cover the sub-housing 55 to close the sub-opening 55d. In the present embodiment, the sub cover 56 may be welded with the sub case 55. The main cover 52 may be welded to the main housing 51. Both the sub opening 55d and the main opening 51b open in a direction away from the valve body 1.

As shown in fig. 17 and 19, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a connection seal 86; the connection seal 86 is provided along the circumferential direction of the sub connection opening 55c and the main connection opening 51 g; the connection seal 86 is clamped between the main casing 51 and the sub-casing 55 to seal the sub-connection opening 55c and the main connection opening 51g.

With continued reference to fig. 19, the refrigerant sensor 31, the sub-housing 55, and the valve body 1 are arranged in a stacked manner, and are connected as one body in the direction of stacking; wherein one of the sub-housing 55 and the refrigerant sensor 31 is clamped between the valve body 1 and the other of the sub-housing 55 and the refrigerant sensor 31. Such a design helps to reduce the assembly steps of the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 and makes the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 compact.

As shown in fig. 17, 20, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 also include a sensor connection 76; the refrigerant sensor 31, the sub-housing 55, and the valve body 1, which are stacked, are integrally connected by a sensor connector 76. The sensor connection 76 may be a screw. The sensor connector 76 penetrates at least one of the sub-housing 55 and the refrigerant sensor 31, and is fixedly connected to the valve body 1.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 20, the sub-housing 55 is sandwiched between the refrigerant sensor 31 and the valve body 1, and the sensor connector 76 penetrates the refrigerant sensor 31 and the sub-housing 55.

In an embodiment not shown, the part of the refrigerant sensor 31 located inside the valve body 1 is screwed with the valve body 1, and the part of the refrigerant sensor 31 located outside the valve body presses the sub-housing 55 against the valve body 1.

As shown in fig. 17, 20, the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a sensor seal 87; the sensor seal 87 is provided along the circumferential direction of the sensor hole 55 b; the sensor seal 87 is clamped between the sub-housing 55 and the valve body 1 to seal the sensor hole 55b.

The electronic expansion valves 92, 94 also include a housing assembly connection 77; the sub-housing 55 is detachably connected to the main housing 51 by a housing assembly connector 77. The housing assembly connector 77 may be a screw.

To achieve a fixation of the valve assembly 2 to the valve body 1, the person skilled in the art will also derive from the description of the invention: an electronic expansion valve comprising: a valve body 1, the valve body 1 having a first refrigerant inlet 1a and a first refrigerant outlet 1b, wherein a first refrigerant passage 11 is formed between the first refrigerant inlet 1a and the first refrigerant outlet 1 b; a valve assembly 2 for throttling the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11; the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include: a valve assembly connector 72; the valve assembly connector 72 is provided to be inserted into the valve body 1 from a side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is not provided, and to be in a limit fit with a portion of the valve assembly 2 located within the valve body 1, thereby fixing the valve assembly 2 to the valve body 1. Such a solution makes the valve assembly 2 not to interact with the valve assembly connector 72 during the fixing of the valve body 1 and the fixing is relatively simple.

The valve assembly connector 72 is provided to be inserted into the valve body 1 from the side adjacent to the side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is provided.

The valve body 1 is provided with a first installation cavity 15 and a limiting hole 1e; the first installation cavity 15 is formed in one side of the valve body 1, and the limiting hole 1e is formed in the other side of the valve body 1; wherein the first mounting cavity 15 allows insertion of the valve assembly 2 and the limiting aperture 1e allows insertion of the valve assembly connector 72; the spacing bore 1e communicates with the first mounting cavity 15 within the interior of the valve body 1 such that the valve assembly connector 72 can be positioned within the first mounting cavity 15 after insertion into the spacing bore 1e to thereby be in a spacing fit with the portion of the valve assembly 2 that is positioned within the first mounting cavity 15.

The valve assembly 2 has a recess 221b for a positive fit with the valve assembly connector 72.

The valve assembly connector 72 is held by the inner wall of the limiting hole 1e and the recess 221b.

The number of the valve assembly connectors 72 is two, and the valve assembly connectors are respectively in limit fit with two sides of the valve assembly 2.

The valve seat 221 of the valve assembly 2 is in positive engagement with the valve assembly connector 72.

The two valve assembly connectors 72 are symmetrically disposed about the valve assembly 2.

To achieve the detection of the operating state of the valve assembly 2, the person skilled in the art can also derive from the description of the invention: an electronic expansion valve, comprising: a valve body 1, the valve body 1 having a first refrigerant inlet 1a and a first refrigerant outlet 1b, wherein a first refrigerant passage 11 is formed between the first refrigerant inlet 1a and the first refrigerant outlet 1 b; a valve assembly 2 for throttling the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11; a main electric control board 4 electrically connected with the valve assembly 2; the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include: valve assembly sensors 32, 33; the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are electrically connected to the main electronic control board 4; valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are used to detect the valve assembly 2; the valve assembly 2 and the main electric control plate 4 are located on different sides of the valve body 1, respectively. Such a solution enables the operating condition of the valve assembly 2 to be detected. The valve assembly sensors 32, 33 may be, but are not limited to, hall sensors.

The electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a housing assembly 5, the housing assembly 5 including a main housing 51; the main housing 51 has a main control chamber 51a; the main electric control board 4 is arranged in the main control cavity 51a; the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are disposed within the main control chamber 51 a.

The valve assembly sensor 32 is disposed at an end of the valve assembly 2 remote from the valve body 1 along an axis of the valve assembly 2. In this embodiment, the valve assembly sensor 32 is an angle hall sensor.

The valve assembly sensor 33 is disposed radially outward of the valve assembly 2. In this embodiment, the valve assembly sensor 32 is a switch-type hall sensor.

The main control chamber 51a has a first chamber portion 51a-1, a second chamber portion 51a-2, and a corner chamber portion 51a-3; the first and second chamber portions 51a-1 and 51a-2 are located on different sides of the valve body 1, respectively; the corner cavity portion 51a-3 extends from the side of the valve body 1 where the first cavity portion 51a-1 is provided, around one corner of the valve body 1, to the side of the valve body 1 where the second cavity portion 51a-2 is provided; wherein a part of the main electric control board 4 is provided in the first cavity portion 51a-1 and another part is provided in the corner cavity portion 51 a-3.

The valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are disposed within the second cavity portion 51a-2, and the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are electrically connected to the portion of the main electronic control board 4 located within the corner cavity portion 51 a-3.

The second chamber portion 51a-2 is located on the side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is provided, and the first chamber portion 51a-1 is located on the side of the valve body 1 where the main electric control board 4 is provided.

The electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include a housing assembly 5, the housing assembly 5 including a main housing 51 and a sub-housing 53; the sub-housing 53 is detachably connected to the main housing 51; the main housing 51 has a main control chamber 51a; the main electric control board 4 is arranged in the main control cavity 51a; the sub-housing 53 has a sub-control chamber 53c, and the valve assembly sensors 32, 33 are disposed within the sub-control chamber 53 c.

The sub-housing 53 also has a sub-connection opening 53d; the sub-connection opening 53d communicates with the sub-control chamber 53 c; the main housing 51 has a main connection opening 51f; the main connection opening 51f communicates with the main control chamber 51a; the sub-connection opening 53d is provided in communication with the main connection opening 51f, thereby communicating the sub-control chamber 53c with the main control chamber 51a; the flexible conductive member 43 penetrates the main connection opening 51f and the sub connection opening 53d to detachably electrically connect the main electronic control board 4 and the valve assembly sensors 32, 33.

The sub control chamber 53c is located on the side of the valve body 1 where the valve assembly 2 is provided.

To achieve the fixation of the refrigerant sensor 31 on the electronic expansion valves 92, 94, it will also be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that: an electronic expansion valve, comprising: a valve body 1, the valve body 1 having a first refrigerant inlet 1a, a first refrigerant outlet 1b, a second refrigerant inlet 1c, and a second refrigerant outlet 1d, wherein a first refrigerant passage 11 is formed between the first refrigerant inlet 1a and the first refrigerant outlet 1b, and a second refrigerant passage 12 is formed between the second refrigerant inlet 1c and the second refrigerant outlet 1 d; a valve assembly 2 for throttling the refrigerant in the first refrigerant passage 11; a refrigerant sensor 31 for detecting the refrigerant in the second refrigerant passage 12; a main electronic control board 4 electrically connected to the valve assembly 2 and the refrigerant sensor 31, respectively; the electronic expansion valves 92, 94 further include: a housing assembly 5 comprising a main housing 51; the main housing 51 has a main control chamber 51a; the main electric control board 4 is arranged in the main control cavity 51a; the refrigerant sensor 31 is pressed against the housing assembly 5. This arrangement can improve the stability of the mounting of the refrigerant sensor 31 on the electronic expansion valves 92, 94.

The refrigerant sensor 31, the main casing 51, and the valve body 1 are stacked and connected as one body in the stacking direction; wherein one of the main housing 51 and the refrigerant sensor 31 is clamped between the valve body 1 and the other of the main housing 51 and the refrigerant sensor 31.

The electronic expansion valves 92, 94 also include a sensor connection 71; the refrigerant sensor 31, the main casing 51, and the valve body 1, which are stacked, are integrally connected by a sensor connector 71.

The portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 located in the main control chamber 51a is pressed against the main casing 51.

The housing assembly 5 further comprises a secondary housing 55; the sub-housing 55 is detachably connected to the main housing 51; the refrigerant sensor 31 is pressed against the sub-housing 55.

The refrigerant sensor 31, the sub-housing 55, and the valve body 1 are stacked and connected as one body in the stacking direction; wherein one of the sub-housing 55 and the refrigerant sensor 31 is clamped between the valve body 1 and the other of the sub-housing 55 and the refrigerant sensor 31.

The electronic expansion valves 92, 94 also include a sensor connection 76; the refrigerant sensor 31, the sub-housing 55, and the valve body 1, which are stacked, are integrally connected by a sensor connector 76.

The sub-housing 55 has a sub-control chamber 55a and a sensor hole 55b; the sensor hole 55b communicates with the sub control chamber 55 a; the refrigerant sensor 31 penetrates the sensor hole 55b; wherein a part of the refrigerant sensor 31 is located in the sub control chamber 55a and is electrically connected with the main electronic control board 4; another portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 is located outside the sub-control chamber 55a and is used to detect the refrigerant in the second refrigerant passage 12.

As shown in fig. 23, the pins of the refrigerant sensor 31 penetrate the sensor holes 51c and protrude into the main control chamber 51a to be plugged with the main electronic control board 4. The portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 located outside the main control chamber 51a is clamped between the main housing 51 and the valve body 1.

In fig. 23, the portion of the refrigerant sensor 31 located outside the main control chamber 51a is pressed against the main casing 51. The main housing 51 has a main opening 51b provided toward away from the valve body 1. The main circuit board 4 is fitted into the main control chamber 51a through the main opening 51b.

As shown in fig. 24, the main housing 51 has a main opening 51b provided toward the valve body 1, and the main circuit board 4 is provided between the main housing 51 and the valve body 1 in the main control chamber 51a. The refrigerant sensor 31 is clamped between the main housing 51 and the valve body 1. The main circuit board 4 is fitted into the main housing 51 through the opening.

One skilled in the art will also recognize, in view of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing an electronic expansion valve that includes the step of compressing the refrigerant sensor 31 against the housing assembly 5.

More specifically, the manufacturing method of the electronic expansion valve includes the step of pressing the refrigerant sensor 31 against the main casing 51 or the sub-casing 55.

More specifically, the method of manufacturing the electronic expansion valve includes the steps of stacking the refrigerant sensor 31, the main casing 51, and the valve body 1, and then connecting the refrigerant sensor 31, the main casing 51, and the valve body 1 in a stacking direction into one body.

More specifically, the method of manufacturing the electronic expansion valve includes the steps of stacking the refrigerant sensor 31, the sub-housing 55, and the valve body 1, and then connecting the refrigerant sensor 31, the sub-housing 55, and the valve body 1 together in the stacking direction.

More specifically, the manufacturing method of the electronic expansion valve includes a step of integrally connecting the refrigerant sensor 31, the main casing 51, and the valve body 1 in the stacking direction using the sensor connector 71.

More specifically, the manufacturing method of the electronic expansion valve includes a step of integrally connecting the refrigerant sensor 31, the sub-housing 55, and the valve body 1 in the stacking direction using the sensor connector 76.

While the invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and that any changes, equivalents, and modifications to the above embodiments in accordance with the technical principles of the invention fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An electronic expansion valve, comprising:

a valve body (1), the valve body (1) having a first refrigerant inlet (1 a) and a first refrigerant outlet (1 b), wherein a first refrigerant channel (11) is formed between the first refrigerant inlet (1 a) and the first refrigerant outlet (1 b);

-a valve assembly (2) for throttling the refrigerant in said first refrigerant channel (11); the valve assembly (2) comprises a coil assembly (21);

a main electric control board (4) electrically connected with the coil assembly (21) of the valve assembly (2);

characterized in that the electronic expansion valve (92, 94) further comprises:

a housing assembly (5) comprising a main housing (51); the main housing (51) has a main control chamber (51 a); the main electric control plate (4) is arranged in the main control cavity (51 a); the valve assembly (2) and the main electric control plate (4) are respectively positioned on different sides of the valve body (1);

a valve assembly sensor (32, 33) electrically connected to the main electronic control board (4); -the valve assembly sensor (32, 33) is for detecting the valve assembly (2); the valve assembly sensors (32, 33) are disposed within the primary control chamber (51 a).

2. The electronic expansion valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a refrigerant sensor (31); the valve body (1) is also provided with a second refrigerant inlet (1 c) and a second refrigerant outlet (1 d), wherein a second refrigerant channel (12) is formed between the second refrigerant inlet (1 c) and the second refrigerant outlet (1 d); the electronic expansion valve is used for detecting the refrigerant in the second refrigerant channel (12);

The refrigerant sensor (31) and the valve assembly (2) are respectively arranged on different sides of the valve body (1); the main electric control plate (4) and the refrigerant sensor (31) are arranged on the same side of the valve body (1).

3. The electronic expansion valve according to claim 1, wherein the first chamber portion (51 a-1) and the second chamber portion (51 a-2) of the main control chamber (51 a) are located on different sides of the valve body (1), respectively; wherein the second chamber portion (51 a-2) is located on the side of the valve body (1) where the valve assembly (2) is provided; the valve assembly sensor (32, 33) is disposed in the second cavity portion (51 a-2).

4. An electronic expansion valve according to claim 1, characterized in that the valve assembly sensor (33) is arranged radially outside the valve assembly (2).

5. The electronic expansion valve of claim 1, wherein said valve assembly sensor (32, 33) is mounted on a connection circuit board (401, 402) and is electrically connected to said connection circuit board (401, 402); -the connection circuit board (401, 402) is arranged in the main control chamber (51 a); the connection circuit board (401, 402) is electrically connected with the main electric control board (4).

6. The electronic expansion valve according to claim 5, wherein said connection circuit board (401, 402) is fixedly connected to said main housing (51).

7. Electronic expansion valve according to claim 5, wherein the connection circuit board (401, 402) is electrically connected to the main electronic control board (4) by means of pins.

8. An electronic expansion valve according to claim 2, wherein the refrigerant sensor (31) has a portion located within the main control chamber (51 a).

9. The electronic expansion valve of claim 3, wherein,

the corner cavity portion (51 a-3) of the main control cavity (51 a) extends from a side of the valve body (1) where the first cavity portion (51 a-1) is provided to a side of the valve body (1) where the second cavity portion (51 a-2) is provided, bypassing one corner of the valve body (1);

wherein a part of the main electric control plate (4) is arranged in the first cavity part (51 a-1), and the other part is arranged in the corner cavity part (51 a-3); the valve assembly sensor (32, 33) is electrically connected to a portion of the main electronic control board (4) located within the corner cavity portion (51 a-3).

10. A thermal management assembly comprising a heat exchanger (95), the heat exchanger (95) having a first heat exchange channel (95 a) and a second heat exchange channel (95 b); -the first heat exchange channel (95 a) and the second heat exchange channel (95 b) are not in communication with each other, characterized in that the thermal management assembly further comprises an electronic expansion valve (94) according to any of claims 1 to 9; the electronic expansion valve (94) is mounted on the heat exchanger (95), wherein the electronic expansion valve (94) is in communication with the first heat exchange channel (95 a).