JP2015045406A - Four-way selector valve - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a four-way selector valve which prevents the deterioration of the seal performance of at least one of first and second pistons and enables the first and second pistons and a connection part to be easily inserted into a cylindrical part.SOLUTION: A connection part 23 is formed so as to move in an axial direction relative to a second piston 22 thereby engaging with the second piston 22. The structure eliminates the need of fixing the connection part 23 to the second piston 22 by, for example, a screw.

Description

  The present invention relates to a four-way switching valve used in, for example, an air conditioner.

  Conventionally, as a four-way switching valve, there is one provided with a piston 101 as shown in FIG. The piston 101 has a structure in which a piston seal 104 is sandwiched between a first reinforcing plate 102 and a second reinforcing plate 103. A leaf spring 108 is inserted between the piston seal 104 and the first reinforcing plate 102. The first reinforcing plate 102 and the second reinforcing plate 103 are pressed against the piston seal 104 side by a rivet 107.

  The piston 101 is fixed to one end of a connecting rod 105 with a screw 106. For this reason, the screw 106 passes through the first and second reinforcing plates 102 and 103, the piston seal 104 and the leaf spring 108. As a result, the sealing performance of the piston 101 is degraded.

  A four-way switching valve (hereinafter referred to as “another conventional four-way switching valve”) that prevents such deterioration in sealing performance is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-229214 (Patent Document 1). As shown in FIG. 8, this four-way switching valve has a first piston 111, a second piston 112, and a connecting plate 113 for connecting the first piston 111 and the second piston 112.

  Seal rings 114 and 115 are fitted in the annular grooves 111a and 112a on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons 111 and 112, respectively. The first and second pistons 111 and 112 are fixed to the connecting plate 113 with rivets 116 and 117.

JP-A-9-229214 (FIGS. 1 and 2)

  By the way, the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connecting plate 113 are inserted into a cylindrical portion (not shown) which is a part of the four-way switching valve body. After the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connecting plate 113 are inserted into the cylindrical portion, the first and second pistons 111 and 112 cannot be fixed to the connecting plate 113 with the rivets 116 and 117.

  Accordingly, after the first and second pistons 111 and 112 are fixed to the connecting plate 113 by the rivets 116 and 117 outside the cylindrical portion, the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connecting plate 113 are inserted into the cylindrical portion. Need to be inserted.

  However, it is difficult to insert the assembly unit in which the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connection plate 113 are connected to each other, avoiding, for example, a valve seat in the cylindrical portion.

  That is, the other conventional four-way switching valve has a problem that it becomes difficult to insert the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connecting plate 113 into the four-way switching valve body.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to prevent the deterioration of the sealing performance of at least one of the first and second pistons, and to facilitate the insertion of the first and second pistons and the connecting part into the cylindrical part. It is to provide a switching valve.

In order to solve the above problems, the four-way switching valve of the present invention is
A four-way selector valve body having a cylindrical portion;
A first piston disposed in the tubular portion;
A second piston disposed within the cylindrical portion and facing the first piston in the axial direction;
A connecting portion for connecting the first piston and the second piston;
The connecting portion is formed to be engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by moving relative to at least one of the first and second pistons in the axial direction. It is said.

  According to the above configuration, the connecting portion is formed to be engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by moving relative to at least one of the first and second pistons in the axial direction. Yes. Thereby, it is not necessary to fix a connection part to at least one of the said 1st, 2nd piston with a screw, for example. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate at least one of the first and second pistons, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of at least one of the first and second pistons from being deteriorated.

  Further, the connecting portion is formed so as to be engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by relatively moving in the axial direction with respect to at least one of the first and second pistons. Thereby, after inserting the said 1st, 2nd piston and a connection part in a cylindrical part, a connection part can be latched to at least one of a 1st, 2nd piston. That is, the first and second pistons and the connecting part can be inserted into the cylindrical part before the connecting part is locked to at least one of the first and second pistons. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons and the connecting portion into the cylindrical portion.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The first piston has substantially the same shape as the second piston.

  According to the embodiment, since the first piston has substantially the same shape as the second piston, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons when the first and second pistons are operated is set to be substantially the same. Can do.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The locking of the connecting portion with respect to at least one of the first and second pistons cannot be released.

  According to the embodiment, since the locking of the connecting portion with respect to at least one of the first and second pistons cannot be released, separation of at least one of the first and second pistons from the connecting portion can be prevented. .

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The first piston is formed integrally with the connecting portion.

  According to the embodiment, since the connecting portion is formed integrally with the first piston, the connecting portion does not need to be fixed to the first piston with, for example, a screw. Therefore, since the said screw does not penetrate the 1st piston, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st, 2nd piston falls.

  In addition, since the first piston is formed integrally with the connecting portion, the work for locking the connecting portion to the first piston can be eliminated. Therefore, the manufacturing efficiency of the four-way switching valve can be improved.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The first piston, the second piston, and the connecting portion are formed separately from each other.

  According to the above embodiment, the first and second pistons and the connecting part are formed separately from each other. For example, when one of the first and second pistons and the connecting part is defective, Only one needs to be exchanged.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The connecting portion includes a first connecting portion formed integrally with the first piston, and a second connecting portion formed integrally with the second piston,
The shape exhibited by the first connecting portion and the first piston is substantially the same shape as the shape exhibited by the second connecting portion and the second piston.

  According to the embodiment, since the first and second connecting portions are formed integrally with the first and second pistons, the first and second connecting portions are fixed to the first and second pistons with screws, for example. It is not necessary. Therefore, since the said screw does not penetrate the 1st and 2nd piston, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st and 2nd piston falls.

  In addition, since the shape of the first connecting portion and the first piston is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion and the second piston, the first and second pistons are operated when the first and second pistons are operated. The pressure applied to the two pistons can be set substantially the same.

  Moreover, since the shape which the said 1st connection part and a 1st piston exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which a 2nd connection part and a 2nd piston exhibit, of the 1st, 2nd piston and the 1st, 2nd connection part Manufacturing cost can be reduced.

The four-way selector valve of one embodiment is
Annular grooves provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons;
And a sealing member fitted in the groove.

  According to the embodiment, since the seal member is fitted into the annular grooves provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons, the sealing performance of the first and second pistons can be enhanced.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is formed such that a part thereof protrudes from one surface side of the connecting portion and another portion protrudes from the other surface side of the connecting portion.

  According to the above-described embodiment, the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is formed such that a part protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting portion and the other portion protrudes from the other surface side of the connecting portion. To do. Thereby, the latching by the latching side end of the connecting portion can be strengthened.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end of the connecting portion on the locking side is formed such that a part thereof protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting portion and the other part protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting portion.

  According to the embodiment, a part of the end portion on the locking side of the connecting part protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting part, and the other part protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting part. Formed. Thereby, the latching by the latching side end of the connecting portion can be strengthened.

  In addition, when forming the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion so that a part protrudes from one surface side of the connecting portion and the other part also protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting portion, The formation of the connecting portion can be made relatively simple.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is formed such that a part protrudes from one side surface of the connecting portion and the other portion protrudes from the other side surface of the connecting portion.

  According to the above-described embodiment, the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is formed such that a part protrudes from one side surface of the connecting portion and the other portion protrudes from the other side surface of the connecting portion. Is done. Thereby, the latching by the latching side end of the connecting portion can be strengthened.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The four-way switching valve, wherein an end of the connecting portion on the locking side is locked to a metal member embedded in the first piston or the second piston.

  According to the above-described embodiment, since the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is locked to the metal member embedded in the first piston or the second piston, the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is locked. It is possible to prevent damage to the parts to be performed.

  Moreover, since the metal member is embedded in the first piston or the second piston, the strength of the first piston or the second piston can be increased. Therefore, the first piston or the second piston can be thinned.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end portion on the first piston side of the connecting portion is embedded in the first piston.

  According to the embodiment, since the end portion on the first piston side of the connecting portion is embedded in the first piston, the possibility that the connecting portion is separated from the first piston can be reduced.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end portion on the first piston side of the connecting portion extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction.

  According to the embodiment, since the end portion on the first piston side of the connecting portion extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction, the possibility that the connecting portion is separated from the first piston can be further reduced.

The four-way switching valve of the present invention is
A four-way selector valve body having a cylindrical portion;
A first piston disposed in the tubular portion;
A second piston disposed within the cylindrical portion and facing the first piston in the axial direction;
A first connecting portion formed integrally with the first piston, for connecting the first piston and the second piston;
A second connecting part formed integrally with the second piston, for connecting the first piston and the second piston;
The first connecting portion is formed so as to be engaged with the second connecting portion by relatively moving in the axial direction with respect to the second piston.

  According to the above configuration, since the first and second connecting portions are formed integrally with the first and second pistons, the first and second connecting portions are not fixed to the first and second pistons with screws, for example. It's okay. Therefore, since the said screw does not penetrate the 1st and 2nd piston, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st and 2nd piston falls.

  The first connecting portion is formed so as to be engaged with the second connecting portion by moving relative to the second piston in the axial direction. Thereby, after inserting the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions into the cylindrical portion, the first connecting portion can be locked to the second connecting portion. That is, the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions can be inserted into the cylindrical portion before the first connecting portion is locked to the second connecting portion. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions into the cylindrical portion.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The shape exhibited by the first connecting portion and the first piston is substantially the same shape as the shape exhibited by the second connecting portion and the second piston.

  According to the above embodiment, the shape of the first connecting portion and the first piston is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion and the second piston, and therefore when the first and second pistons are operated. The pressure applied to the first and second pistons can be set substantially the same.

  Moreover, since the shape which the said 1st connection part and a 1st piston exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which a 2nd connection part and a 2nd piston exhibit, of the 1st, 2nd piston and the 1st, 2nd connection part Manufacturing cost can be reduced.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
At least one of the first and second connecting portions has a flow path for guiding fluid from one end side of the four-way switching valve body to the other end side of the four-way switching valve body.

  According to the above embodiment, at least one of the first and second connecting portions has a flow path for guiding fluid from one end side of the four-way switching valve body to the other end side of the four-way switching valve body. Turbulent flow in the four-way switching valve body can be reduced.

  According to the four-way switching valve of the present invention, the connecting portion is engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by moving relative to at least one of the first and second pistons in the axial direction. Therefore, the connecting portion does not have to be fixed to at least one of the first and second pistons with, for example, a screw. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate at least one of the first and second pistons, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of at least one of the first and second pistons from being deteriorated.

  Further, the connecting portion is formed so as to be engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by moving relative to at least one of the first and second pistons in the axial direction. Before the connecting portion is locked to at least one of the first and second pistons, the first and second pistons and the connecting portion can be inserted into the cylindrical portion. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons and the connecting portion into the cylindrical portion.

  According to the four-way switching valve of the present invention, the first and second connecting portions are formed integrally with the first and second pistons, so that the first and second pistons are connected to, for example, screws. It is not necessary to fix with. Therefore, since the said screw does not penetrate the 1st and 2nd piston, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st and 2nd piston falls.

  In addition, the first connecting portion is formed so as to be locked to the second connecting portion by moving in the axial direction relative to the second piston, and thus the first connecting portion is attached to the second connecting portion. Prior to locking, the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions can be inserted into the tubular portion. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons and the connecting portion into the cylindrical portion.

FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a four-way switching valve according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons and the connecting portion of the four-way switching valve according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second piston and the connecting portion. FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons and the connecting portion of the four-way switching valve according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions of the four-way switching valve according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions of the four-way switching valve according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a conventional four-way switching valve. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of first and second pistons and a connecting portion of another conventional four-way switching valve. FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the first and second pistons and the connecting portion of the four-way switching valve according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of the connecting portion. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of the second piston and the connecting portion. FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of the first piston and the connecting portion. FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a second piston according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second piston and the connecting portion. FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second piston and a connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of a connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, the four-way switching valve of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a four-way switching valve according to a first embodiment of the present invention provided in an air conditioner.

  The four-way switching valve includes a four-way switching valve body 1, a valve seat 2 provided in the four-way switching valve body 1, and a valve body 3 provided in the four-way switching valve body 1. Yes.

  The four-way selector valve body 1 closes the cylindrical portion 1a, the first closing portion 1b for closing one end portion in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a, and the other end portion in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a. And a second closing portion 1c. The first and second closing portions 1b and 1c are welded to the cylindrical portion 1a. The cylindrical portion 1a is an example of a cylindrical portion.

  A first port 11 is provided on the upper side (one end side in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction) of the cylindrical portion 1a in the drawing. On the other hand, second, third, and fourth ports 12, 13, and 14 are provided on the lower side (the other end side in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction) of the cylindrical portion 1a. The first port 11 faces the third port 13. The second, third, and fourth ports 12, 13, and 14 are arranged along the axial direction, and the third port 13 is located between the second port 12 and the fourth port 14.

  The first port 11 is connected to a discharge port of a compressor (not shown) via the pipe 4. As a result, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor flows toward the four-way switching valve body 1 in the pipe 4.

  The second port 12 is connected to an outdoor heat exchanger (not shown) via the pipe 5. Thereby, at the time of heating operation, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger flows in the pipe 5 toward the four-way switching valve body 1. Further, during the cooling operation, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor flows in the pipe 5 toward the outdoor heat exchanger.

  The third port 13 is connected to the suction port of the compressor via a pipe 6. During the heating operation, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the four-way switching valve body 1 from the pipe 5 is guided to the pipe 6 by the valve body 3. On the other hand, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant that has flowed into the four-way switching valve body 1 from the pipe 7 is guided to the pipe 6 by the valve body 3 during the cooling operation.

  The fourth port 14 is connected to an indoor heat exchanger (not shown) via the pipe 7. As a result, during the cooling operation, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant from the indoor heat exchanger flows in the pipe 7 toward the four-way switching valve body 1. Further, during the heating operation, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor flows in the pipe 7 toward the indoor heat exchanger.

  The valve seat 2 is provided between the lower portion of the cylindrical portion 1a in the figure and the valve body 3, and is made of, for example, stainless steel.

The valve body 3 is a valve body for switching communication between the second port 12 and the third port 13 and communication between the third port 13 and the fourth port 14, and is made of, for example, resin. The valve body 3 is provided to be slidable in the axial direction on the surface of the valve seat 2 on the valve body 3 side.
The four-way switching valve is disposed in the resin-made first piston 21 disposed in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1. A resin-made second piston 22 facing the first piston 21 in the axial direction, and a resin-made connecting portion 23 for connecting the first piston 21 and the second piston 22 are provided. For example, polyphenylene sulfide may be used as at least one material of the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 23.

  The space between the first piston 21 and the first closing portion 1b can communicate with the space in the pipe 6 via the pilot pipe 8, the pilot electromagnetic valve (not shown), and the pilot pipe 9.

  The space between the second piston 22 and the second closing portion 1c can communicate with the space in the pipe 6 through the pilot pipe 10, the pilot electromagnetic valve, and the pilot pipe 9.

  When the pilot solenoid valve is operated, the space between the first piston 21 and the first closing portion 1b becomes higher or lower than the space between the second piston 22 and the second closing portion 1c. Or Thereby, the 1st, 2nd pistons 21 and 22, the connection part 23, and the valve body 3 move to the left-right direction (axial direction) in the figure.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 23.

  The first piston 21 is formed integrally with the connecting portion 23. The first piston 21 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22. In addition, annular grooves 31 and 32 are provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons 21 and 22. Seal members 41 and 42 (shown in FIG. 1) are fitted in the grooves 31 and 32.

  A large through hole 51 into which the valve body 3 is fitted is provided in the central portion of the connecting portion 23 in the axial direction. A first small through hole 52 that can face the second port 12 is provided on the side of the large through hole 51 on the first piston 21 side. On the other hand, a second small through-hole 53 that can face the fourth port 14 is provided on the side of the large through-hole 51 on the second piston 22 side. The axial lengths of the first and second small through holes 52 and 53 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 51.

  Further, a notch 54 extending in the axial direction is provided at the distal end portion 23 a of the connecting portion 23. Thereby, the front-end | tip part 23a becomes easy to elastically deform in the direction perpendicular | vertical to an axial direction.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second piston 22 and the connecting portion 23.

  An insertion hole 61 through which the distal end portion 23a of the connection portion 23 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the second piston 22 on the connection portion 23 side. The insertion hole 61 communicates with the accommodation chamber 62 in the second piston 22.

  When the distal end portion 23 a of the connecting portion 23 is inserted into the insertion hole 61 of the second piston 22, a part of the distal end portion 23 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 62. At this time, a triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the distal end portion 23 a is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge portion of the insertion hole 61. As a result, the distal end portion 23 a cannot be detached from the second piston 22. That is, the locking of the connecting portion 23 with respect to the second piston 22 cannot be released.

  Hereinafter, the insertion of the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 into the four-way switching valve body 1 will be described.

  First, before welding the first and second closing portions 1b and 1c to the cylindrical portion 1a, the second piston 22 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from one end side in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a. .

  Next, the first piston 21 and the connecting portion 23 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from the other end side in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a. At this time, the valve body 3 is fitted into the large through hole 51 of the connecting portion 23, and the valve body 3 is also inserted into the cylindrical portion 1 a of the four-way switching valve body 1 together with the connecting portion 23.

  Next, the connecting portion 23 is moved relative to the second piston 22 in the axial direction, and the distal end portion 23 a of the connecting portion 23 is inserted into the insertion hole 61. Then, a portion protruding in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction in the distal end portion 23 a is locked to the inner surface of the peripheral edge portion of the insertion hole 61.

  Thus, the connecting portion 23 is formed so as to be locked to the second piston 22 by moving relative to the second piston 22 in the axial direction. May not be fixed with screws, for example. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate the second piston 22, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the second piston 22 from being deteriorated.

  Further, the connecting portion 23 is formed so as to be locked to the second piston 22 by moving in the axial direction relative to the second piston 22, so that the first and second pistons 21, 22 and After the connecting portion 23 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a, the connecting portion 23 can be locked to the second piston 22. That is, the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 23 can be inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a before the connecting portion 23 is locked to the second piston 22. Therefore, the insertion of the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 23 into the cylindrical portion 1a is easy.

  Since the first piston 21 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 21 and 22 when the first and second pistons 21 and 22 are operated is substantially the same. Can be set.

  Further, since the locking of the connecting portion 23 with respect to the second piston 22 cannot be released, it is possible to prevent the connecting portion 23 from being separated from the second piston 22.

  Moreover, since the said connection part 23 is integrally formed with the 1st piston 21, it is not necessary to fix the connection part 23 to the 1st piston 21 with a screw | thread, for example. Therefore, since the screw does not penetrate the first piston 21, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the first piston 21 from being deteriorated.

  Further, since the first piston 21 is formed integrally with the connecting portion 23, the work for locking the connecting portion 23 to the first piston 21 can be eliminated. Therefore, the manufacturing efficiency of the four-way switching valve can be improved.

  In the first embodiment, the four-way switching valve is used in an air conditioner, but may be used in devices other than an air conditioner as long as it is a device that needs to control the flow of gas or liquid. .

  In the said 1st Embodiment, although the 1st, 2nd pistons 21 and 22 and the connection part 23 consisted of resin, you may make it consist of metals (for example, aluminum).

  In the said 1st Embodiment, after inserting the 2nd piston 22 in the cylindrical part 1a from the one end side of the axial direction of the cylindrical part 1a, it is cylindrical from the other end side of the axial direction of the cylindrical part 1a. Although the 1st piston 21 and the connection part 23 were inserted in the part 1a, the 1st piston 21 and the connection part 23 were inserted in the cylindrical part 1a from the one end side of the axial direction of the cylindrical part 1a. Then, the second piston 22 may be inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from the other end side in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a.

  In the first embodiment, the tip portion 23a of the connecting portion 23 is provided with the triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction, and the notch 54. It may not be provided. In this case, for example, the distal end portion 23a of the connecting portion 23 may be bonded to the second piston 22 with an adhesive. That is, the locking of the connecting portion 23 to the second piston 22 may be performed by an adhesive, press-fitting, or the like.

  In the first embodiment, the four-way switching valve main body 1 has the cylindrical portion 1a, but may have a rectangular tube portion or an elliptic tube portion.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 included in the four-way switching valve according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 4, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are assigned to the same components as those in the first embodiment. Also in the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment.

  The four-way switching valve is disposed in the cylindrical portion 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and connects the first piston 221 that is opposed to the second piston 22 in the axial direction, and the first piston 221 and the second piston 22. Only the point which is provided with the connection part 223 for doing is different from the said 1st Embodiment.

  The first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 are made of resin, for example, and are formed separately from each other. For example, polyphenylene sulfide may be used as at least one material of the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223.

  A large through hole 251 into which the valve body 3 is fitted is provided in the axial center of the connecting portion 223. A first small through hole 252 that can face the second port 12 is provided on the side of the large through hole 251 on the first piston 221 side. On the other hand, a second small through hole 253 that can face the fourth port 14 is provided on the side of the large through hole 251 on the second piston 22 side. The axial lengths of the first and second small through holes 252 and 253 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 251.

  Further, a notch 254 extending in the axial direction is provided at one end 223a of the connecting portion 223. On the other hand, the other end portion 223b of the connecting portion 223 is also provided with a notch 255 extending in the axial direction. That is, one end 223 a of the connecting portion 223 has substantially the same shape as the other end 223 b of the connecting portion 223. Thereby, the one end part 223a and the other end part 223a of the connection part 223 are each easily elastically deformed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

  When one end 223 a of the connecting portion 223 is inserted into the insertion hole 61 of the second piston 22, a part of the one end 223 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 62. At this time, a triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the one end 223 a is locked to the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the insertion hole 61. As a result, the one end 223a cannot be detached from the second piston 22. That is, the connecting portion 223 can be locked to the second piston 22 by moving in the axial direction, and the locking of the connecting portion 223 to the second piston 22 cannot be released.

  Further, an insertion hole 261 through which the other end portion 223a of the connection portion 223 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the first piston 221 on the connection portion 223 side. The insertion hole 261 communicates with a storage chamber (not shown) in the first piston 221.

  When the other end 223b of the connecting portion 223 is inserted into the insertion hole 261 of the first piston 221, a part of the other end 223b is accommodated in the accommodation chamber. At this time, the triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the other end 223 b is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the insertion hole 261. As a result, the other end 223 b cannot be detached from the first piston 221. That is, the locking of the connecting portion 223 with respect to the first piston 221 cannot be released.

  An annular groove 231 is provided on the peripheral surface of the first piston 221. The seal member 41 is fitted in the groove 231.

  According to the four-way selector valve having the above-described configuration, as in the first embodiment, the connecting portion 223 moves relative to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 in the axial direction, so that Since the two pistons 221 and 22 are formed so as to be locked, the connecting portion 223 does not have to be fixed to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 with screws, for example. Therefore, since the screw does not penetrate the first and second pistons 221, 22, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the first, second pistons 221, 22 from being deteriorated.

  In addition, the connecting portion 223 is formed to be engaged with the first and second pistons 221 and 22 by moving relative to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 in the axial direction. After the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a, the connecting portion 223 can be locked to the first and second pistons 221 and 22. That is, before the connection part 223 is locked to the first and second pistons 221 and 22, the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connection part 223 can be inserted into the cylindrical part 1a. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 into the cylindrical portion 1a.

  Since the first piston 221 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 when the first and second pistons 221 and 22 are operated is substantially the same. Can be set.

  Further, since the first piston 221 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22, the manufacturing cost of the first and second pistons 221 and 22 can be reduced.

  Further, since the locking of the connecting portion 223 with respect to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 cannot be released, it is possible to prevent the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 from being separated.

  In addition, since the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 are formed separately from each other, for example, one of the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 is defective. In that case, only one of them needs to be replaced.

[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 5 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons 321 and 322 and the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 included in the four-way switching valve according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment.

  The four-way switching valve is arranged in the first piston 321 arranged in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1, and is connected to the first piston 321. Only the point provided with the second piston 322 facing in the axial direction, and the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 for connecting the first piston 321 and the second piston 322 is the same as the first embodiment. Is different.

  The first and second pistons 321 and 322 are formed integrally with the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324. Annular grooves 331 and 332 are provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons 321 and 322. Seal members 41 and 42 (shown in FIG. 1) are fitted in the grooves 331 and 332. The first piston 321 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 322. Moreover, the shape which the 1st connection part 323 and the 1st piston 321 exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which the 2nd connection part 324 and the 2nd piston 322 exhibit.

  Large through-holes 351 and 356 into which the valve body 3 is fitted are provided in the central portion in the axial direction of the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324. First small through holes 352 and 357 are provided on the side of the base end side of the large through holes 351 and 356. On the other hand, second small through holes 353 and 358 are provided on the side of the leading end side of the large through holes 351 and 356. The first and second small through holes 352 and 358 can face the second port 12. The first and second small through holes 357 and 353 can face the fourth port 14. The axial lengths of the first and second small through holes 352 and 353 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 351. Further, the axial lengths of the first and second small through holes 357 and 358 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 356.

  Further, notches 354 and 359 extending in the axial direction are provided at the tip portions 323a and 324a of the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324, respectively. Thereby, the front-end | tip parts 323a and 324a become easy to elastically deform in the direction perpendicular | vertical to an axial direction.

  An insertion hole 361 through which the distal end portion 324a of the second connection portion 324 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the first piston 321 on the first connection portion 323 side. The insertion hole 361 communicates with a storage chamber (not shown) in the first piston 321.

  When the distal end portion 324a of the second connecting portion 324 is inserted into the insertion hole 361 of the first piston 321, a part of the distal end portion 324a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber. At this time, the triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the distal end portion 324 a is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge portion of the insertion hole 361. As a result, the tip 324a cannot be detached from the first piston 321. That is, the locking of the second connecting portion 324 with respect to the first piston 321 cannot be released.

  Although not shown, an insertion hole through which the tip end portion 323a of the first connection portion 323 is inserted is also provided on the end surface of the second piston 322 on the first connection portion 323 side. The insertion hole communicates with a storage chamber (not shown) in the second piston 322.

  When the distal end portion 323a of the first connecting portion 323 is inserted into the insertion hole of the second piston 322, a part of the distal end portion 323a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber. At this time, a triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the distal end portion 323a is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge portion of the insertion hole. As a result, the distal end portion 323a cannot be detached from the second piston 322. That is, the locking of the first connecting portion 323 with respect to the second piston 322 cannot be released.

  According to the four-way selector valve having the above configuration, the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 move relative to the first and second pistons 321 and 322 in the axial direction, as in the first embodiment. Thus, the first and second pistons 321 and 322 are formed so as to be locked. Therefore, the second connecting portion 324 may not be fixed to the first piston 321 with a screw, for example, and the second piston The first connecting portion 323 may not be fixed to the 322 with, for example, a screw. Therefore, since the screw does not penetrate the first and second pistons 321 and 322, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the first and second pistons 321 and 322 from deteriorating.

  Also, the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 are engaged with the first and second pistons 321 and 322 by moving relative to the first and second pistons 321 and 322 in the axial direction. After the first and second pistons 321 and 322 and the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a, the first and second pistons 321 and 322 are The second connecting portions 323 and 324 can be locked. That is, the first and second pistons 321 and 322 and the first and second connection portions 323 and 324 are connected before the first and second pistons 321 and 322 are locked to the first and second connection portions 323 and 324. It can be inserted into the cylindrical part 1a. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons 321 and 322 and the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 into the cylindrical portion 1a.

  Since the first piston 221 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 321 and 322 when the first and second pistons 321 and 322 are operated is substantially the same. Can be set.

  Further, since the locking of the second connecting portion 324 with respect to the first piston 321 cannot be released, it is possible to prevent the second connecting portion 324 from being separated from the first piston 321.

  Further, since the locking of the first connecting portion 323 with respect to the second piston 322 cannot be released, it is possible to prevent the first connecting portion 323 from being separated from the second piston 322.

  Moreover, since the said 1st connection part 323 is integrally formed with the 1st piston 321, the screw | thread for fixing the 1st connection part 323 to the 1st piston 321 is unnecessary. Therefore, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st piston 321 falls with the above-mentioned screw.

  Further, since the second connecting portion 323 is formed integrally with the second piston 322, for example, a screw for fixing the second connecting portion 324 to the second piston 322 is unnecessary. Therefore, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 2nd piston 322 falls with the said screw.

  Moreover, since the shape which the 1st connection part 323 and the 1st piston 321 exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which the 2nd connection part 324 and the 2nd piston 322 exhibit, the 1st, 2nd pistons 321 and 322 are operated. Sometimes the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 321 and 322 can be set substantially the same.

  In addition, since the shape of the first connecting portion 323 and the first piston 321 is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion 324 and the second piston 322, the first and second pistons 321, 322 and The manufacturing cost of the 1st and 2nd connection parts 323 and 324 can be lowered.

  In the third embodiment, the first piston 321 may be formed integrally with the first connecting portion 323 using, for example, polyphenylene sulfide. That is, as a material for the first piston 321 and the first connecting portion 323, polyphenylene sulfide as an example of a resin may be used.

  Further, like the first piston 321 and the first connecting portion 323, polyphenylene sulfide as an example of a resin may be used as the material of the second piston 322 and the second connecting portion 324.

[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the first and second pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 included in the four-way switching valve according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment.

  The four-way switching valve is arranged in the first piston 421 disposed in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1, and is connected to the first piston 421. Unlike the first embodiment, only the second piston 422 facing in the axial direction and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 for connecting the first piston 421 and the second piston 422 are provided. Yes.

  The first and second pistons 421 and 422 are integrally formed with the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424. On the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons 421 and 422, annular grooves 431 and 432 are provided. Seal members 41 and 42 (shown in FIG. 1) are fitted into the grooves 431 and 432. The first piston 421 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 422. Moreover, the shape which the 1st connection part 423 and the 1st piston 421 exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which the 2nd connection part 424 and the 2nd piston 422 exhibit.

  The first connecting portion 423 includes a flow path 471 for guiding the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the pipe 4 side to the pipe 5 side, and a substantially quarter elliptical concave portion 481 into which a part of the valve body 3 is fitted. And are provided. The second connecting portion 424 has a substantially elliptical spherical shape in which the flow path 472 for guiding the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the pipe 4 side to the pipe 14 side and the remaining part of the valve body 3 are fitted. A recess 482 is provided. The inlet 471a of the channel 471 is continuous with the inlet 472a of the channel 472 in the axial direction. In addition, recesses 481 and 482 are positioned between the outlet 471b of the channel 471 and the outlet 472b of the channel 472.

  Further, the distal end surface of the first connecting portion 423 is fixed to the distal end surface of the second connecting portion 424 with an adhesive. The leading end surface of the first connecting portion 423 is formed so as to be fixed to the leading end surface of the second connecting portion 424 with an adhesive. In other words, the first connecting portion 423 is formed to be engaged with the second connecting portion 424 by moving relative to the second piston 422 in the axial direction.

  According to the four-way switching valve having the above-described configuration, the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 are formed integrally with the first and second pistons 421 and 422. For example, the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 may not be fixed with screws. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate the first and second pistons 421 and 422, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the first and second pistons 421 and 422 from deteriorating.

  When the first connecting portion 423 is locked to the second connecting portion 424, first, the first piston 421 and the first connecting portion 423 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from one end side of the cylindrical portion 1a. Then, the valve body 3 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from the other end side of the cylindrical portion 1a, and a part of the valve body 3 is fitted into the recess 481. Subsequently, the second piston 422 with the adhesive applied to the tip surface and the second connecting portion 424 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from the other end side of the cylindrical portion 1a. As a result, the remaining portion of the valve body 3 is fitted into the recess 482, and the first connecting portion 423 is locked to the second connecting portion 424.

  As described above, the first connecting portion 423 is formed to be engaged with the second connecting portion 424 by moving relative to the second piston 422 in the axial direction. After the pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a, the first connecting portion 423 can be locked to the second connecting portion 424. That is, before the first connecting portion 423 is locked to the second connecting portion 424, the first and second pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a. Can do. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 into the cylindrical portion 1a.

  Further, the valve body 3 does not have to be fitted into the recesses 481 and 482 before the first and second pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connection portions 423 and 424 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a. Since it is good, the said four-way switching valve is easy to assemble compared with the four-way switching valve of 1st-3rd embodiment.

  Further, since the shape of the first connecting portion 423 and the first piston 421 is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion 424 and the second piston 422, the first and second pistons 421 and 422 are operated. The pressure applied to the first and second pistons 421 and 422 can be set substantially the same.

  Further, since the shape of the first connecting portion 423 and the first piston 421 is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion and the second piston, the first, second pistons 421, 422 and the first, first, The manufacturing cost of the 2nd connection part 423,424 can be lowered | hung.

  The first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 provide flow paths 471 and 472 that guide high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from one end side of the four-way switching valve body 1 to the other end side of the four-way switching valve body 1. Therefore, the turbulent flow in the four-way selector valve body 1 can be reduced.

  In the fourth embodiment, the front end surface of the first connection portion 423 is locked with the front end surface of the second connection portion 424 by an adhesive, but may be performed by press-fitting or the like.

  In the fourth embodiment, the front end surface of the first connection portion 423 is locked with the front end surface of the second connection portion 424 with an adhesive. However, as in the first to third embodiments, a rod shape is used. You may carry out by inserting the front-end | tip part of a member through an insertion hole.

  In the said 4th Embodiment, although the 1st connection part 423 had the flow path 471 which guides the high temperature / high pressure refrigerant | coolant from the one end side of the cylindrical part 1a to the other end side of the four-way selector valve main body 1. The flow path 471 may not be provided.

  In the said 4th Embodiment, although the 2nd connection part 424 had the flow path 472 which guides the high temperature / high pressure refrigerant | coolant from the one end side of the cylindrical part 1a to the other end side of the four-way selector valve main body 1. The flow path 472 may not be provided.

  In the fourth embodiment, the first piston 421 may be formed integrally with the first connecting portion 423 using, for example, polyphenylene sulfide. That is, as a material for the first piston 421 and the first connecting portion 423, polyphenylene sulfide as an example of a resin may be used.

  Further, like the first piston 421 and the first connecting portion 423, polyphenylene sulfide as an example of a resin may be used as the material of the second piston 422 and the second connecting portion 424.

[Fifth Embodiment]
FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the first and second pistons 521 and 522 and the connecting portion 523 provided in the four-way switching valve according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of the connecting portion 523. In the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the four-way switching valve includes a first piston 521 disposed in a cylindrical part 1 a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and a cylindrical part 1 a of the four-way switching valve body 1. The first piston 521 is disposed in the first piston 521 in the axial direction, and has a connecting portion 523 for connecting the first piston 521 and the second piston 522. It is different from the embodiment.

  The first and second pistons 521 and 522 are made of resin, for example, and are formed separately from each other. The first piston 521 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 522. For example, polyphenylene sulfide may be used as the material of at least one of the first and second pistons 521 and 522.

  A large through-hole 551 into which the valve body 3 is fitted is provided in the central portion of the connecting portion 523 in the axial direction. A first small through hole 552 that can face the second port 12 is provided on the side of the large through hole 551 on the first piston 521 side. On the other hand, a notch 554 that extends in the axial direction and can partially face the fourth port 14 is provided on the side of the large through hole 551 on the second piston 522 side. The axial lengths of the small through hole 552 and the notch 554 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 551.

  The notch 554 is provided at one end 523 a of the connecting portion 523. Thereby, the one end part 523a of the connection part 523 is easily elastically deformed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11, an insertion hole 561 through which one end 523 a of the connection part 523 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the second piston 522 on the connection part 523 side. The insertion hole 561 communicates with the accommodation chamber 562 in the second piston 522.

  When one end 523 a of the connecting portion 523 is inserted into the insertion hole 561 of the second piston 522, a part of the one end 523 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 562. At this time, the trapezoidal portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the one end 523a is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the insertion hole 561. As a result, the one end 523a cannot be detached from the second piston 522. That is, the connecting portion 523 can be locked to the second piston 522 by moving in the axial direction, and the locking of the connecting portion 523 to the second piston 522 cannot be released.

  Moreover, the said 1st piston 521 and the connection part 523 are integrated by insert molding, as shown in FIG. More specifically, the other end portions (end portions on the first piston 521 side) 523b-1 and 523b-2 of the connecting portion 523 are embedded in the first piston 521 and extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction. . The other end 523b-1 extends toward the lower side (the side on the valve seat 2 side), while the other end 523b-2 extends on the upper side (the side opposite to the valve seat 2 side). Extending towards.

  The connecting portion 523 is formed by processing a metal plate (for example, an aluminum plate). More specifically, the right side portion 523c and the left side portion 523d of the connecting portion 523 are formed by bending a part of the metal plate downward. Thereby, even if the large through-hole 551 is provided in the connecting portion 523, the strength of the connecting portion 523 can be prevented.

  Although not shown, annular grooves are provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first pistons 521 and 522, and a seal member is fitted in the grooves.

  According to the four-way switching valve configured as described above, the connecting portion 523 is formed so as to be engaged with the second piston 522 by moving relative to the second piston 522 in the axial direction. For example, the connecting portion 523 may not be fixed to the piston 522 with a screw. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate the second piston 522, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the second piston 522 from deteriorating.

  Further, the connecting portion 523 is formed so as to be locked to the second piston 522 by moving relative to the second piston 522 in the axial direction, so that the second piston 522 and the connecting portion 523 are cylindrical. After the insertion into the shaped portion 1a, the connecting portion 523 can be locked to the second piston 522. In other words, the second piston 522 and the connecting portion 523 can be inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a before the connecting portion 523 is locked to the second piston 522. Therefore, it is easy to insert the second piston 522 and the connecting portion 523 into the cylindrical portion 1a.

  Since the first piston 521 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 522, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 521 and 522 when the first and second pistons 521 and 522 are operated is substantially the same. Can be set.

  Further, since the locking of the connecting portion 523 with respect to the second piston 522 cannot be released, separation of the first and second pistons 521, 522 and the connecting portion 523 can be prevented.

  Since the first piston 521 and the connecting portion 523 are integrated by insert molding, the first piston 521 made of resin and the connecting portion 523 made of metal are easily integrated without increasing the number of parts. can do.

  Further, since the other end portions 523b-1 and 523b-2 of the connecting portion 523 are embedded in the first piston 521, the possibility that the connecting portion 523 is separated from the first piston 521 can be reduced.

  Further, since the other end portions 523b-1 and 523b-2 of the connecting portion 523 are embedded in the first piston 521, the strength of the first piston 521 can be increased. Therefore, the axial length of the first piston 521 can be shortened. That is, the first piston 521 can be thinned.

  In addition, since the other end portions 523b-1 and 523b-2 of the connecting portion 523 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction, the possibility that the connecting portion 523 is separated from the first piston 521 can be further reduced.

  In the fifth embodiment, one end portion 523a of the connecting portion 523 partially protrudes from one surface side (the upper side in FIG. 10) of the connecting portion 523, and the other portion is on the other surface side of the connecting portion 523. Although it did not protrude from (lower side in FIG. 10), it may be protruded. As an example of the connecting portion to be configured in this manner, there is a connecting portion 623 shown in FIG.

  The connecting portion 623 is formed by processing a metal plate (aluminum plate). More specifically, after cutting one end 623a of the connecting portion 623, the portion 623a-1 on one side of the one end 623a is pressed toward the arrow A1 side, and the portion 623a- on the other side of the one end 623a. 2 is pressed to the arrow A2 side. Thereby, the part 623a-1 protrudes from one surface side (upper side in FIG. 10) of the connecting part 623, and the part 623a-2 protrudes from the other surface side (lower side in FIG. 10) of the connecting part 623. . The one end 623a is an example of an end on the locking side.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of the second piston 622 attached to the one end 623a of the connecting portion 623. As shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second piston 622 and the connecting portion 623.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the second piston 622 is made of a resin (for example, polyphenylene sulfide), and has a substantially cylindrical recess on the end surface of the second piston 622 opposite to the connecting portion 623 side. 660A and 660B. On the other hand, an insertion hole 661 through which the one end 623a of the connection part 623 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the second piston 622 on the connection part 623 side. The insertion hole 661 communicates with the accommodation chamber 662 in the second piston 622.

  In addition, annular grooves 632A and 632B are provided on the peripheral surface of the second piston 622. A seal member 642A is fitted in the groove 632A. The seal member 642A has a cross-sectional shape that is divided into two forks on the connecting portion 623 side. On the other hand, a sealing member 642B having a circular cross section is fitted in the groove 632B.

  When one end 623 a of the connecting portion 623 is inserted into the insertion hole 661 of the second piston 622, a part of the one end 623 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 662. At this time, the part 623a-1 on one side of the one end 623a and the part 623a-2 on the other side of the one end 623a engage with the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the insertion hole 661. As a result, the one end 623a cannot be detached from the second piston 622. That is, the connecting portion 623 can be locked to the second piston 622 by moving in the axial direction, and the locking of the connecting portion 623 to the second piston 622 cannot be released.

  Further, the one end 623 a of the connecting portion 623 has a step between one surface side of the connecting portion 623 and the other surface side of the connecting portion 623.

  The one end 623a of the connecting portion 623 is formed such that the portion 623a-1 protrudes from one surface side of the connecting portion 623 and the portion 623a-2 protrudes from the other surface side of the connecting portion 623. Therefore, the locking of the one end 623a of the connecting portion 623 can be strengthened.

  Although not shown, the other end of the connecting portion 623 may have the same shape as the one end 623a, or the same shape as the other ends 523b-1 and 523b-2 of FIG. Also good.

  Moreover, you may attach the one end part 623a of the connection part 623 to the 2nd piston 722 shown in FIG.

  More specifically, the second piston 722 is made of resin (for example, polyphenylene sulfide), and substantially cylindrical recesses 760A and 760B are provided on the end surface of the second piston 722 opposite to the connecting portion 623 side. ing. On the other hand, an insertion hole 761 through which the one end 623a of the connection part 623 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the second piston 722 on the connection part 623 side. The insertion hole 661 communicates with a through-hole 791 of a substantially disc-shaped metal member 790 embedded in the second piston 722 and also communicates with a storage chamber 762 in the second piston 722. The shape of the metal member 790 may be a shape other than a substantially disk shape (for example, a square plate shape). The second piston 722 may be formed by sandwiching the metal member 790 between two resin members and then fusing the two resin members.

  In addition, annular grooves 732A and 732B are provided on the peripheral surface of the second piston 722. A sealing material (not shown) having the same shape as the sealing members 642A and 642B of FIG. 15 is fitted in the grooves 732A and 732B.

  When one end 623 a of the connecting portion 623 is inserted into the insertion hole 761 of the second piston 722, a part of the one end 623 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 762. At this time, the part 623a-1 on one side of the one end 623a and the part 623a-2 on the other side of the one end 623a are engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the through hole 791. As a result, the one end 623a cannot be detached from the second piston 722. That is, the connecting portion 623 can be locked to the second piston 722 by moving in the axial direction, and the locking of the connecting portion 623 to the second piston 722 cannot be released.

  Even when such a second piston 722 is used, the same effect as that obtained when the second piston 622 is used can be obtained.

  In addition, one end 623 of the connecting portion 623 is locked to a metal member 790 embedded in the second piston 622. Thereby, the damage of the location which the one end part 623a of the connection part 623 latches can be prevented.

  Further, since the metal member 790 is embedded in the second piston 722, the strength of the second piston 722 can be increased. Therefore, the second piston 722 can shorten the axial length. That is, the second piston 722 can be thinned.

  Further, instead of the connecting portion 623, a connecting portion 723 shown in FIG. 17 may be used. The connecting portion 723 is formed by processing a metal plate (for example, an aluminum plate). More specifically, after cutting one end portion 723a of the connecting portion 723, the portion 723a-1 on one side surface of the one end portion 723a is pressed toward the arrow A1 side, and the portion 723a− on the other side surface of the one end portion 723a. 2 is also pressed to the arrow A1 side. Thereby, the portions 723a-1 and 723a-2 protrude from one surface side (the upper side in FIG. 17) of the connecting portion 723. The one end 723a is an example of an end on the locking side.

  As described above, the one end 723a of the connecting portion 723 is formed such that the portions 723a-1 and 723a-2 protrude from one surface side of the connecting portion 723. Therefore, the locking of the one end 723a of the connecting portion 723 can be strengthened.

  Further, the one end portion 723a of the connecting portion 723 can be formed more easily than the one end portion 623a of the connecting portion 623.

  Although not shown, the other end of the connecting portion 723 may have the same shape as the one end 723a, or the same shape as the other ends 523b-1 and 523b-2 of FIG. Also good.

  Further, the one end 723a of the connecting portion 723 may be attached to, for example, the second piston 522 of FIG. 15 or may be attached to the second piston 722 of FIG.

  Further, instead of the connecting portion 623, a connecting portion 823 shown in FIG. 18 may be used. The connecting portion 823 is formed by processing a metal plate (for example, an aluminum plate). More specifically, after cutting one end 823a of the connecting portion 823, the portion 823a-1 on one side of the one end 823a is pulled to the arrow A3 side, and the portion 823a-2 on the other side of the one end 823a. Is pulled to the arrow A4 side. Thereby, the part 823a-1 protrudes from one side surface (upper side surface in FIG. 10) of the connecting portion 823, and the portion 823a-2 is the other side surface of the connecting portion 823 (lower side in FIG. 10). Protrude from. The one end 823a is an example of an end on the locking side.

  Thus, the one end 823a of the connecting part 823 is formed such that the part 823a-1 protrudes from one side of the connecting part 823 and the part 823a-2 protrudes from the other side of the connecting part 823. The Therefore, the locking of the one end 823a of the connecting portion 823 can be strengthened.

  Although not shown, the other end of the connecting portion 823 may have the same shape as the one end 823a, or the same shape as the other ends 523b-1 and 523b-2 of FIG. Also good.

  Further, the one end 823a of the connecting portion 823 may be attached to, for example, the second piston 522 of FIG. 15 or may be attached to the second piston 722 of FIG.

  Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, one embodiment of the present invention may be a combination of the descriptions of the first to fifth embodiments and the modifications as appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Four-way switching valve main body 1a Cylindrical part 2 Valve seat 3 Valve body 21,221,321,421,521 First piston 22,322,422,522,622,722 Second piston 23,223,523,623 723,823 connection part 323 1st connection part 324 2nd connection part 31,32,231,331,332,431,431 groove | channel 41,42 Seal member 471,472 Flow path 790 Metal member

  The present invention relates to a four-way switching valve used in, for example, an air conditioner.

  Conventionally, as a four-way switching valve, there is one provided with a piston 101 as shown in FIG. The piston 101 has a structure in which a piston seal 104 is sandwiched between a first reinforcing plate 102 and a second reinforcing plate 103. A leaf spring 108 is inserted between the piston seal 104 and the first reinforcing plate 102. The first reinforcing plate 102 and the second reinforcing plate 103 are pressed against the piston seal 104 side by a rivet 107.

  The piston 101 is fixed to one end of a connecting rod 105 with a screw 106. For this reason, the screw 106 passes through the first and second reinforcing plates 102 and 103, the piston seal 104 and the leaf spring 108. As a result, the sealing performance of the piston 101 is degraded.

  A four-way switching valve (hereinafter referred to as “another conventional four-way switching valve”) that prevents such deterioration in sealing performance is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-229214 (Patent Document 1). As shown in FIG. 8, this four-way switching valve has a first piston 111, a second piston 112, and a connecting plate 113 for connecting the first piston 111 and the second piston 112.

  Seal rings 114 and 115 are fitted in the annular grooves 111a and 112a on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons 111 and 112, respectively. The first and second pistons 111 and 112 are fixed to the connecting plate 113 with rivets 116 and 117.

JP-A-9-229214 (FIGS. 1 and 2)

  By the way, the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connecting plate 113 are inserted into a cylindrical portion (not shown) which is a part of the four-way switching valve body. After the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connecting plate 113 are inserted into the cylindrical portion, the first and second pistons 111 and 112 cannot be fixed to the connecting plate 113 with the rivets 116 and 117.

  Accordingly, after the first and second pistons 111 and 112 are fixed to the connecting plate 113 by the rivets 116 and 117 outside the cylindrical portion, the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connecting plate 113 are inserted into the cylindrical portion. Need to be inserted.

  However, it is difficult to insert the assembly unit in which the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connection plate 113 are connected to each other, avoiding, for example, a valve seat in the cylindrical portion.

  That is, the other conventional four-way switching valve has a problem that it becomes difficult to insert the first and second pistons 111 and 112 and the connecting plate 113 into the four-way switching valve body.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to prevent the deterioration of the sealing performance of at least one of the first and second pistons, and to facilitate the insertion of the first and second pistons and the connecting part into the cylindrical part. It is to provide a switching valve.

In order to solve the above problems, the four-way switching valve of the present invention is
A four-way selector valve body having a cylindrical portion;
A first piston disposed in the tubular portion;
A second piston disposed within the cylindrical portion and facing the first piston in the axial direction;
A connecting portion for connecting the first piston and the second piston;
At least one of the first and second pistons has a non-through hole in the axial direction on the end surface on the connecting part side,
The connecting portion is inserted into the hole of at least one of the first and second pistons by being relatively moved in the axial direction with respect to at least one of the first and second pistons, and is engaged with the hole . It is characterized by being formed.

  According to the above configuration, the connecting portion is formed to be engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by moving relative to at least one of the first and second pistons in the axial direction. Yes. Thereby, it is not necessary to fix a connection part to at least one of the said 1st, 2nd piston with a screw, for example. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate at least one of the first and second pistons, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of at least one of the first and second pistons from being deteriorated.

  Further, the connecting portion is formed so as to be engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by relatively moving in the axial direction with respect to at least one of the first and second pistons. Thereby, after inserting the said 1st, 2nd piston and a connection part in a cylindrical part, a connection part can be latched to at least one of a 1st, 2nd piston. That is, the first and second pistons and the connecting part can be inserted into the cylindrical part before the connecting part is locked to at least one of the first and second pistons. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons and the connecting portion into the cylindrical portion.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The first piston has substantially the same shape as the second piston.

  According to the embodiment, since the first piston has substantially the same shape as the second piston, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons when the first and second pistons are operated is set to be substantially the same. Can do.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The locking of the connecting portion with respect to at least one of the first and second pistons cannot be released.

  According to the embodiment, since the locking of the connecting portion with respect to at least one of the first and second pistons cannot be released, separation of at least one of the first and second pistons from the connecting portion can be prevented. .

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The first piston is formed integrally with the connecting portion.

  According to the embodiment, since the connecting portion is formed integrally with the first piston, the connecting portion does not need to be fixed to the first piston with, for example, a screw. Therefore, since the said screw does not penetrate the 1st piston, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st, 2nd piston falls.

  In addition, since the first piston is formed integrally with the connecting portion, the work for locking the connecting portion to the first piston can be eliminated. Therefore, the manufacturing efficiency of the four-way switching valve can be improved.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The first piston, the second piston, and the connecting portion are formed separately from each other.

  According to the above embodiment, the first and second pistons and the connecting part are formed separately from each other. For example, when one of the first and second pistons and the connecting part is defective, Only one needs to be exchanged.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The connecting portion includes a first connecting portion formed integrally with the first piston, and a second connecting portion formed integrally with the second piston,
The shape exhibited by the first connecting portion and the first piston is substantially the same shape as the shape exhibited by the second connecting portion and the second piston.

  According to the embodiment, since the first and second connecting portions are formed integrally with the first and second pistons, the first and second connecting portions are fixed to the first and second pistons with screws, for example. It is not necessary. Therefore, since the said screw does not penetrate the 1st and 2nd piston, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st and 2nd piston falls.

  In addition, since the shape of the first connecting portion and the first piston is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion and the second piston, the first and second pistons are operated when the first and second pistons are operated. The pressure applied to the two pistons can be set substantially the same.

  Moreover, since the shape which the said 1st connection part and a 1st piston exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which a 2nd connection part and a 2nd piston exhibit, of the 1st, 2nd piston and the 1st, 2nd connection part Manufacturing cost can be reduced.

The four-way selector valve of one embodiment is
Annular grooves provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons;
And a sealing member fitted in the groove.

  According to the embodiment, since the seal member is fitted into the annular grooves provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons, the sealing performance of the first and second pistons can be enhanced.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is formed such that a part thereof protrudes from one surface side of the connecting portion and another portion protrudes from the other surface side of the connecting portion.

  According to the above-described embodiment, the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is formed such that a part protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting portion and the other portion protrudes from the other surface side of the connecting portion. To do. Thereby, the latching by the latching side end of the connecting portion can be strengthened.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end of the connecting portion on the locking side is formed such that a part thereof protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting portion and the other part protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting portion.

  According to the embodiment, a part of the end portion on the locking side of the connecting part protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting part, and the other part protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting part. Formed. Thereby, the latching by the latching side end of the connecting portion can be strengthened.

  In addition, when forming the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion so that a part protrudes from one surface side of the connecting portion and the other part also protrudes from the one surface side of the connecting portion, The formation of the connecting portion can be made relatively simple.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is formed such that a part protrudes from one side surface of the connecting portion and the other portion protrudes from the other side surface of the connecting portion.

  According to the above-described embodiment, the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is formed such that a part protrudes from one side surface of the connecting portion and the other portion protrudes from the other side surface of the connecting portion. Is done. Thereby, the latching by the latching side end of the connecting portion can be strengthened.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The four-way switching valve, wherein an end of the connecting portion on the locking side is locked to a metal member embedded in the first piston or the second piston.

  According to the above-described embodiment, since the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is locked to the metal member embedded in the first piston or the second piston, the end portion on the locking side of the connecting portion is locked. It is possible to prevent damage to the parts to be performed.

  Moreover, since the metal member is embedded in the first piston or the second piston, the strength of the first piston or the second piston can be increased. Therefore, the first piston or the second piston can be thinned.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end portion on the first piston side of the connecting portion is embedded in the first piston.

  According to the embodiment, since the end portion on the first piston side of the connecting portion is embedded in the first piston, the possibility that the connecting portion is separated from the first piston can be reduced.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
An end portion on the first piston side of the connecting portion extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction.

  According to the embodiment, since the end portion on the first piston side of the connecting portion extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction, the possibility that the connecting portion is separated from the first piston can be further reduced.

The four-way switching valve of the present invention is
A four-way selector valve body having a cylindrical portion;
A first piston disposed in the tubular portion;
A second piston disposed within the cylindrical portion and facing the first piston in the axial direction;
A first connecting portion formed integrally with the first piston, for connecting the first piston and the second piston;
A second connecting part formed integrally with the second piston, for connecting the first piston and the second piston;
The first connecting portion is formed so as to be engaged with the second connecting portion by relatively moving in the axial direction with respect to the second piston.

  According to the above configuration, since the first and second connecting portions are formed integrally with the first and second pistons, the first and second connecting portions are not fixed to the first and second pistons with screws, for example. It's okay. Therefore, since the said screw does not penetrate the 1st and 2nd piston, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st and 2nd piston falls.

  The first connecting portion is formed so as to be engaged with the second connecting portion by moving relative to the second piston in the axial direction. Thereby, after inserting the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions into the cylindrical portion, the first connecting portion can be locked to the second connecting portion. That is, the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions can be inserted into the cylindrical portion before the first connecting portion is locked to the second connecting portion. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions into the cylindrical portion.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
The shape exhibited by the first connecting portion and the first piston is substantially the same shape as the shape exhibited by the second connecting portion and the second piston.

  According to the above embodiment, the shape of the first connecting portion and the first piston is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion and the second piston, and therefore when the first and second pistons are operated. The pressure applied to the first and second pistons can be set substantially the same.

  Moreover, since the shape which the said 1st connection part and a 1st piston exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which a 2nd connection part and a 2nd piston exhibit, of the 1st, 2nd piston and the 1st, 2nd connection part Manufacturing cost can be reduced.

In the four-way selector valve of one embodiment,
At least one of the first and second connecting portions has a flow path for guiding fluid from one end side of the four-way switching valve body to the other end side of the four-way switching valve body.

  According to the above embodiment, at least one of the first and second connecting portions has a flow path for guiding fluid from one end side of the four-way switching valve body to the other end side of the four-way switching valve body. Turbulent flow in the four-way switching valve body can be reduced.

  According to the four-way switching valve of the present invention, the connecting portion is engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by moving relative to at least one of the first and second pistons in the axial direction. Therefore, the connecting portion does not have to be fixed to at least one of the first and second pistons with, for example, a screw. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate at least one of the first and second pistons, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of at least one of the first and second pistons from being deteriorated.

  Further, the connecting portion is formed so as to be engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons by moving relative to at least one of the first and second pistons in the axial direction. Before the connecting portion is locked to at least one of the first and second pistons, the first and second pistons and the connecting portion can be inserted into the cylindrical portion. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons and the connecting portion into the cylindrical portion.

  According to the four-way switching valve of the present invention, the first and second connecting portions are formed integrally with the first and second pistons, so that the first and second pistons are connected to, for example, screws. It is not necessary to fix with. Therefore, since the said screw does not penetrate the 1st and 2nd piston, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st and 2nd piston falls.

  In addition, the first connecting portion is formed so as to be locked to the second connecting portion by moving in the axial direction relative to the second piston, and thus the first connecting portion is attached to the second connecting portion. Prior to locking, the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions can be inserted into the tubular portion. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons and the connecting portion into the cylindrical portion.

FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a four-way switching valve according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons and the connecting portion of the four-way switching valve according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second piston and the connecting portion. FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons and the connecting portion of the four-way switching valve according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions of the four-way switching valve according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the first and second pistons and the first and second connecting portions of the four-way switching valve according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a conventional four-way switching valve. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of first and second pistons and a connecting portion of another conventional four-way switching valve. FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the first and second pistons and the connecting portion of the four-way switching valve according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of the connecting portion. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of the second piston and the connecting portion. FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view of the first piston and the connecting portion. FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a second piston according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second piston and the connecting portion. FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second piston and a connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of a connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, the four-way switching valve of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a four-way switching valve according to a first embodiment of the present invention provided in an air conditioner.

  The four-way switching valve includes a four-way switching valve body 1, a valve seat 2 provided in the four-way switching valve body 1, and a valve body 3 provided in the four-way switching valve body 1. Yes.

  The four-way selector valve body 1 closes the cylindrical portion 1a, the first closing portion 1b for closing one end portion in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a, and the other end portion in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a. And a second closing portion 1c. The first and second closing portions 1b and 1c are welded to the cylindrical portion 1a. The cylindrical portion 1a is an example of a cylindrical portion.

  A first port 11 is provided on the upper side (one end side in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction) of the cylindrical portion 1a in the drawing. On the other hand, second, third, and fourth ports 12, 13, and 14 are provided on the lower side (the other end side in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction) of the cylindrical portion 1a. The first port 11 faces the third port 13. The second, third, and fourth ports 12, 13, and 14 are arranged along the axial direction, and the third port 13 is located between the second port 12 and the fourth port 14.

  The first port 11 is connected to a discharge port of a compressor (not shown) via the pipe 4. As a result, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor flows toward the four-way switching valve body 1 in the pipe 4.

  The second port 12 is connected to an outdoor heat exchanger (not shown) via the pipe 5. Thereby, at the time of heating operation, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger flows in the pipe 5 toward the four-way switching valve body 1. Further, during the cooling operation, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor flows in the pipe 5 toward the outdoor heat exchanger.

  The third port 13 is connected to the suction port of the compressor via a pipe 6. During the heating operation, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant flowing into the four-way switching valve body 1 from the pipe 5 is guided to the pipe 6 by the valve body 3. On the other hand, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant that has flowed into the four-way switching valve body 1 from the pipe 7 is guided to the pipe 6 by the valve body 3 during the cooling operation.

  The fourth port 14 is connected to an indoor heat exchanger (not shown) via the pipe 7. As a result, during the cooling operation, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant from the indoor heat exchanger flows in the pipe 7 toward the four-way switching valve body 1. Further, during the heating operation, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the compressor flows in the pipe 7 toward the indoor heat exchanger.

  The valve seat 2 is provided between the lower portion of the cylindrical portion 1a in the figure and the valve body 3, and is made of, for example, stainless steel.

The valve body 3 is a valve body for switching communication between the second port 12 and the third port 13 and communication between the third port 13 and the fourth port 14, and is made of, for example, resin. The valve body 3 is provided to be slidable in the axial direction on the surface of the valve seat 2 on the valve body 3 side.
The four-way switching valve is disposed in the resin-made first piston 21 disposed in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1. A resin-made second piston 22 facing the first piston 21 in the axial direction, and a resin-made connecting portion 23 for connecting the first piston 21 and the second piston 22 are provided. For example, polyphenylene sulfide may be used as at least one material of the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 23.

  The space between the first piston 21 and the first closing portion 1b can communicate with the space in the pipe 6 via the pilot pipe 8, the pilot electromagnetic valve (not shown), and the pilot pipe 9.

  The space between the second piston 22 and the second closing portion 1c can communicate with the space in the pipe 6 through the pilot pipe 10, the pilot electromagnetic valve, and the pilot pipe 9.

  When the pilot solenoid valve is operated, the space between the first piston 21 and the first closing portion 1b becomes higher or lower than the space between the second piston 22 and the second closing portion 1c. Or Thereby, the 1st, 2nd pistons 21 and 22, the connection part 23, and the valve body 3 move to the left-right direction (axial direction) in the figure.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 23.

  The first piston 21 is formed integrally with the connecting portion 23. The first piston 21 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22. In addition, annular grooves 31 and 32 are provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons 21 and 22. Seal members 41 and 42 (shown in FIG. 1) are fitted in the grooves 31 and 32.

  A large through hole 51 into which the valve body 3 is fitted is provided in the central portion of the connecting portion 23 in the axial direction. A first small through hole 52 that can face the second port 12 is provided on the side of the large through hole 51 on the first piston 21 side. On the other hand, a second small through-hole 53 that can face the fourth port 14 is provided on the side of the large through-hole 51 on the second piston 22 side. The axial lengths of the first and second small through holes 52 and 53 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 51.

  Further, a notch 54 extending in the axial direction is provided at the distal end portion 23 a of the connecting portion 23. Thereby, the front-end | tip part 23a becomes easy to elastically deform in the direction perpendicular | vertical to an axial direction.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second piston 22 and the connecting portion 23.

  An insertion hole 61 through which the distal end portion 23a of the connection portion 23 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the second piston 22 on the connection portion 23 side. The insertion hole 61 communicates with the accommodation chamber 62 in the second piston 22.

  When the distal end portion 23 a of the connecting portion 23 is inserted into the insertion hole 61 of the second piston 22, a part of the distal end portion 23 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 62. At this time, a triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the distal end portion 23 a is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge portion of the insertion hole 61. As a result, the distal end portion 23 a cannot be detached from the second piston 22. That is, the locking of the connecting portion 23 with respect to the second piston 22 cannot be released.

  Hereinafter, the insertion of the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 into the four-way switching valve body 1 will be described.

  First, before welding the first and second closing portions 1b and 1c to the cylindrical portion 1a, the second piston 22 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from one end side in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a. .

  Next, the first piston 21 and the connecting portion 23 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from the other end side in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a. At this time, the valve body 3 is fitted into the large through hole 51 of the connecting portion 23, and the valve body 3 is also inserted into the cylindrical portion 1 a of the four-way switching valve body 1 together with the connecting portion 23.

  Next, the connecting portion 23 is moved relative to the second piston 22 in the axial direction, and the distal end portion 23 a of the connecting portion 23 is inserted into the insertion hole 61. Then, a portion protruding in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction in the distal end portion 23 a is locked to the inner surface of the peripheral edge portion of the insertion hole 61.

  Thus, the connecting portion 23 is formed so as to be locked to the second piston 22 by moving relative to the second piston 22 in the axial direction. May not be fixed with screws, for example. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate the second piston 22, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the second piston 22 from being deteriorated.

  Further, the connecting portion 23 is formed so as to be locked to the second piston 22 by moving in the axial direction relative to the second piston 22, so that the first and second pistons 21, 22 and After the connecting portion 23 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a, the connecting portion 23 can be locked to the second piston 22. That is, the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 23 can be inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a before the connecting portion 23 is locked to the second piston 22. Therefore, the insertion of the first and second pistons 21 and 22 and the connecting portion 23 into the cylindrical portion 1a is easy.

  Since the first piston 21 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 21 and 22 when the first and second pistons 21 and 22 are operated is substantially the same. Can be set.

  Further, since the locking of the connecting portion 23 with respect to the second piston 22 cannot be released, it is possible to prevent the connecting portion 23 from being separated from the second piston 22.

  Moreover, since the said connection part 23 is integrally formed with the 1st piston 21, it is not necessary to fix the connection part 23 to the 1st piston 21 with a screw | thread, for example. Therefore, since the screw does not penetrate the first piston 21, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the first piston 21 from being deteriorated.

  Further, since the first piston 21 is formed integrally with the connecting portion 23, the work for locking the connecting portion 23 to the first piston 21 can be eliminated. Therefore, the manufacturing efficiency of the four-way switching valve can be improved.

  In the first embodiment, the four-way switching valve is used in an air conditioner, but may be used in devices other than an air conditioner as long as it is a device that needs to control the flow of gas or liquid. .

  In the said 1st Embodiment, although the 1st, 2nd pistons 21 and 22 and the connection part 23 consisted of resin, you may make it consist of metals (for example, aluminum).

  In the said 1st Embodiment, after inserting the 2nd piston 22 in the cylindrical part 1a from the one end side of the axial direction of the cylindrical part 1a, it is cylindrical from the other end side of the axial direction of the cylindrical part 1a. Although the 1st piston 21 and the connection part 23 were inserted in the part 1a, the 1st piston 21 and the connection part 23 were inserted in the cylindrical part 1a from the one end side of the axial direction of the cylindrical part 1a. Then, the second piston 22 may be inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from the other end side in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 1a.

  In the first embodiment, the tip portion 23a of the connecting portion 23 is provided with the triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction, and the notch 54. It may not be provided. In this case, for example, the distal end portion 23a of the connecting portion 23 may be bonded to the second piston 22 with an adhesive. That is, the locking of the connecting portion 23 to the second piston 22 may be performed by an adhesive, press-fitting, or the like.

  In the first embodiment, the four-way switching valve main body 1 has the cylindrical portion 1a, but may have a rectangular tube portion or an elliptic tube portion.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 included in the four-way switching valve according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 4, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are assigned to the same components as those in the first embodiment. Also in the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment.

  The four-way switching valve is disposed in the cylindrical portion 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and connects the first piston 221 that is opposed to the second piston 22 in the axial direction, and the first piston 221 and the second piston 22. Only the point which is provided with the connection part 223 for doing is different from the said 1st Embodiment.

  The first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 are made of resin, for example, and are formed separately from each other. For example, polyphenylene sulfide may be used as at least one material of the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223.

  A large through hole 251 into which the valve body 3 is fitted is provided in the axial center of the connecting portion 223. A first small through hole 252 that can face the second port 12 is provided on the side of the large through hole 251 on the first piston 221 side. On the other hand, a second small through hole 253 that can face the fourth port 14 is provided on the side of the large through hole 251 on the second piston 22 side. The axial lengths of the first and second small through holes 252 and 253 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 251.

  Further, a notch 254 extending in the axial direction is provided at one end 223a of the connecting portion 223. On the other hand, the other end portion 223b of the connecting portion 223 is also provided with a notch 255 extending in the axial direction. That is, one end 223 a of the connecting portion 223 has substantially the same shape as the other end 223 b of the connecting portion 223. Thereby, the one end part 223a and the other end part 223a of the connection part 223 are each easily elastically deformed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

  When one end 223 a of the connecting portion 223 is inserted into the insertion hole 61 of the second piston 22, a part of the one end 223 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 62. At this time, a triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the one end 223 a is locked to the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the insertion hole 61. As a result, the one end 223a cannot be detached from the second piston 22. That is, the connecting portion 223 can be locked to the second piston 22 by moving in the axial direction, and the locking of the connecting portion 223 to the second piston 22 cannot be released.

  Further, an insertion hole 261 through which the other end portion 223a of the connection portion 223 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the first piston 221 on the connection portion 223 side. The insertion hole 261 communicates with a storage chamber (not shown) in the first piston 221.

  When the other end 223b of the connecting portion 223 is inserted into the insertion hole 261 of the first piston 221, a part of the other end 223b is accommodated in the accommodation chamber. At this time, the triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the other end 223 b is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the insertion hole 261. As a result, the other end 223 b cannot be detached from the first piston 221. That is, the locking of the connecting portion 223 with respect to the first piston 221 cannot be released.

  An annular groove 231 is provided on the peripheral surface of the first piston 221. The seal member 41 is fitted in the groove 231.

  According to the four-way selector valve having the above-described configuration, as in the first embodiment, the connecting portion 223 moves relative to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 in the axial direction, so that Since the two pistons 221 and 22 are formed so as to be locked, the connecting portion 223 does not have to be fixed to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 with screws, for example. Therefore, since the screw does not penetrate the first and second pistons 221, 22, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the first, second pistons 221, 22 from being deteriorated.

  In addition, the connecting portion 223 is formed to be engaged with the first and second pistons 221 and 22 by moving relative to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 in the axial direction. After the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a, the connecting portion 223 can be locked to the first and second pistons 221 and 22. That is, before the connection part 223 is locked to the first and second pistons 221 and 22, the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connection part 223 can be inserted into the cylindrical part 1a. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 into the cylindrical portion 1a.

  Since the first piston 221 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 when the first and second pistons 221 and 22 are operated is substantially the same. Can be set.

  Further, since the first piston 221 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22, the manufacturing cost of the first and second pistons 221 and 22 can be reduced.

  Further, since the locking of the connecting portion 223 with respect to the first and second pistons 221 and 22 cannot be released, it is possible to prevent the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 from being separated.

  In addition, since the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 are formed separately from each other, for example, one of the first and second pistons 221 and 22 and the connecting portion 223 is defective. In that case, only one of them needs to be replaced.

[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 5 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the first and second pistons 321 and 322 and the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 included in the four-way switching valve according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment.

  The four-way switching valve is arranged in the first piston 321 arranged in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1, and is connected to the first piston 321. Only the point provided with the second piston 322 facing in the axial direction, and the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 for connecting the first piston 321 and the second piston 322 is the same as the first embodiment. Is different.

  The first and second pistons 321 and 322 are formed integrally with the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324. Annular grooves 331 and 332 are provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons 321 and 322. Seal members 41 and 42 (shown in FIG. 1) are fitted in the grooves 331 and 332. The first piston 321 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 322. Moreover, the shape which the 1st connection part 323 and the 1st piston 321 exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which the 2nd connection part 324 and the 2nd piston 322 exhibit.

  Large through-holes 351 and 356 into which the valve body 3 is fitted are provided in the central portion in the axial direction of the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324. First small through holes 352 and 357 are provided on the side of the base end side of the large through holes 351 and 356. On the other hand, second small through holes 353 and 358 are provided on the side of the leading end side of the large through holes 351 and 356. The first and second small through holes 352 and 358 can face the second port 12. The first and second small through holes 357 and 353 can face the fourth port 14. The axial lengths of the first and second small through holes 352 and 353 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 351. Further, the axial lengths of the first and second small through holes 357 and 358 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 356.

  Further, notches 354 and 359 extending in the axial direction are provided at the tip portions 323a and 324a of the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324, respectively. Thereby, the front-end | tip parts 323a and 324a become easy to elastically deform in the direction perpendicular | vertical to an axial direction.

  An insertion hole 361 through which the distal end portion 324a of the second connection portion 324 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the first piston 321 on the first connection portion 323 side. The insertion hole 361 communicates with a storage chamber (not shown) in the first piston 321.

  When the distal end portion 324a of the second connecting portion 324 is inserted into the insertion hole 361 of the first piston 321, a part of the distal end portion 324a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber. At this time, the triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the distal end portion 324 a is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge portion of the insertion hole 361. As a result, the tip 324a cannot be detached from the first piston 321. That is, the locking of the second connecting portion 324 with respect to the first piston 321 cannot be released.

  Although not shown, an insertion hole through which the tip end portion 323a of the first connection portion 323 is inserted is also provided on the end surface of the second piston 322 on the first connection portion 323 side. The insertion hole communicates with a storage chamber (not shown) in the second piston 322.

  When the distal end portion 323a of the first connecting portion 323 is inserted into the insertion hole of the second piston 322, a part of the distal end portion 323a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber. At this time, a triangular portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the distal end portion 323a is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge portion of the insertion hole. As a result, the distal end portion 323a cannot be detached from the second piston 322. That is, the locking of the first connecting portion 323 with respect to the second piston 322 cannot be released.

  According to the four-way selector valve having the above configuration, the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 move relative to the first and second pistons 321 and 322 in the axial direction, as in the first embodiment. Thus, the first and second pistons 321 and 322 are formed so as to be locked. Therefore, the second connecting portion 324 may not be fixed to the first piston 321 with a screw, for example, and the second piston The first connecting portion 323 may not be fixed to the 322 with, for example, a screw. Therefore, since the screw does not penetrate the first and second pistons 321 and 322, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the first and second pistons 321 and 322 from deteriorating.

  Also, the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 are engaged with the first and second pistons 321 and 322 by moving relative to the first and second pistons 321 and 322 in the axial direction. After the first and second pistons 321 and 322 and the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a, the first and second pistons 321 and 322 are The second connecting portions 323 and 324 can be locked. That is, the first and second pistons 321 and 322 and the first and second connection portions 323 and 324 are connected before the first and second pistons 321 and 322 are locked to the first and second connection portions 323 and 324. It can be inserted into the cylindrical part 1a. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons 321 and 322 and the first and second connecting portions 323 and 324 into the cylindrical portion 1a.

  Since the first piston 221 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 22, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 321 and 322 when the first and second pistons 321 and 322 are operated is substantially the same. Can be set.

  Further, since the locking of the second connecting portion 324 with respect to the first piston 321 cannot be released, it is possible to prevent the second connecting portion 324 from being separated from the first piston 321.

  Further, since the locking of the first connecting portion 323 with respect to the second piston 322 cannot be released, it is possible to prevent the first connecting portion 323 from being separated from the second piston 322.

  Moreover, since the said 1st connection part 323 is integrally formed with the 1st piston 321, the screw | thread for fixing the 1st connection part 323 to the 1st piston 321 is unnecessary. Therefore, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 1st piston 321 falls with the above-mentioned screw.

Also, the second connecting portion 32 4 are integrally formed with the second piston 322, for example, a screw for fixing the second connecting portion 324 to the second piston 322 is unnecessary. Therefore, it can prevent that the sealing performance of the 2nd piston 322 falls with the said screw.

  Moreover, since the shape which the 1st connection part 323 and the 1st piston 321 exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which the 2nd connection part 324 and the 2nd piston 322 exhibit, the 1st, 2nd pistons 321 and 322 are operated. Sometimes the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 321 and 322 can be set substantially the same.

  In addition, since the shape of the first connecting portion 323 and the first piston 321 is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion 324 and the second piston 322, the first and second pistons 321, 322 and The manufacturing cost of the 1st and 2nd connection parts 323 and 324 can be lowered.

  In the third embodiment, the first piston 321 may be formed integrally with the first connecting portion 323 using, for example, polyphenylene sulfide. That is, as a material for the first piston 321 and the first connecting portion 323, polyphenylene sulfide as an example of a resin may be used.

  Further, like the first piston 321 and the first connecting portion 323, polyphenylene sulfide as an example of a resin may be used as the material of the second piston 322 and the second connecting portion 324.

[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the first and second pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 included in the four-way switching valve according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment.

  The four-way switching valve is arranged in the first piston 421 disposed in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and in the cylindrical part 1a of the four-way switching valve body 1, and is connected to the first piston 421. Unlike the first embodiment, only the second piston 422 facing in the axial direction and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 for connecting the first piston 421 and the second piston 422 are provided. Yes.

  The first and second pistons 421 and 422 are integrally formed with the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424. On the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons 421 and 422, annular grooves 431 and 432 are provided. Seal members 41 and 42 (shown in FIG. 1) are fitted into the grooves 431 and 432. The first piston 421 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 422. Moreover, the shape which the 1st connection part 423 and the 1st piston 421 exhibit is substantially the same shape as the shape which the 2nd connection part 424 and the 2nd piston 422 exhibit.

The first connecting portion 423 includes a flow path 471 for guiding the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the pipe 4 side to the pipe 5 side, and a substantially quarter elliptical concave portion 481 into which a part of the valve body 3 is fitted. And are provided. The second connecting portion 424 has a substantially ¼ elliptical spherical shape in which the flow path 472 for guiding the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from the pipe 4 side to the pipe 7 side and the remaining part of the valve body 3 are fitted. A recess 482 is provided. The inlet 471a of the channel 471 is continuous with the inlet 472a of the channel 472 in the axial direction. In addition, recesses 481 and 482 are positioned between the outlet 471b of the channel 471 and the outlet 472b of the channel 472.

  Further, the distal end surface of the first connecting portion 423 is fixed to the distal end surface of the second connecting portion 424 with an adhesive. The leading end surface of the first connecting portion 423 is formed so as to be fixed to the leading end surface of the second connecting portion 424 with an adhesive. In other words, the first connecting portion 423 is formed to be engaged with the second connecting portion 424 by moving relative to the second piston 422 in the axial direction.

  According to the four-way switching valve having the above-described configuration, the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 are formed integrally with the first and second pistons 421 and 422. For example, the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 may not be fixed with screws. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate the first and second pistons 421 and 422, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the first and second pistons 421 and 422 from deteriorating.

  When the first connecting portion 423 is locked to the second connecting portion 424, first, the first piston 421 and the first connecting portion 423 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from one end side of the cylindrical portion 1a. Then, the valve body 3 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from the other end side of the cylindrical portion 1a, and a part of the valve body 3 is fitted into the recess 481. Subsequently, the second piston 422 with the adhesive applied to the tip surface and the second connecting portion 424 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a from the other end side of the cylindrical portion 1a. As a result, the remaining portion of the valve body 3 is fitted into the recess 482, and the first connecting portion 423 is locked to the second connecting portion 424.

  As described above, the first connecting portion 423 is formed to be engaged with the second connecting portion 424 by moving relative to the second piston 422 in the axial direction. After the pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a, the first connecting portion 423 can be locked to the second connecting portion 424. That is, before the first connecting portion 423 is locked to the second connecting portion 424, the first and second pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a. Can do. Therefore, it is easy to insert the first and second pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 into the cylindrical portion 1a.

  Further, the valve body 3 does not have to be fitted into the recesses 481 and 482 before the first and second pistons 421 and 422 and the first and second connection portions 423 and 424 are inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a. Since it is good, the said four-way switching valve is easy to assemble compared with the four-way switching valve of 1st-3rd embodiment.

  Further, since the shape of the first connecting portion 423 and the first piston 421 is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion 424 and the second piston 422, the first and second pistons 421 and 422 are operated. The pressure applied to the first and second pistons 421 and 422 can be set substantially the same.

  Further, since the shape of the first connecting portion 423 and the first piston 421 is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting portion and the second piston, the first, second pistons 421, 422 and the first, first, The manufacturing cost of the 2nd connection part 423,424 can be lowered | hung.

  The first and second connecting portions 423 and 424 provide flow paths 471 and 472 that guide high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant from one end side of the four-way switching valve body 1 to the other end side of the four-way switching valve body 1. Therefore, the turbulent flow in the four-way selector valve body 1 can be reduced.

  In the fourth embodiment, the front end surface of the first connection portion 423 is locked with the front end surface of the second connection portion 424 by an adhesive, but may be performed by press-fitting or the like.

  In the fourth embodiment, the front end surface of the first connection portion 423 is locked with the front end surface of the second connection portion 424 with an adhesive. However, as in the first to third embodiments, a rod shape is used. You may carry out by inserting the front-end | tip part of a member through an insertion hole.

  In the said 4th Embodiment, although the 1st connection part 423 had the flow path 471 which guides the high temperature / high pressure refrigerant | coolant from the one end side of the cylindrical part 1a to the other end side of the four-way selector valve main body 1. The flow path 471 may not be provided.

  In the said 4th Embodiment, although the 2nd connection part 424 had the flow path 472 which guides the high temperature / high pressure refrigerant | coolant from the one end side of the cylindrical part 1a to the other end side of the four-way selector valve main body 1. The flow path 472 may not be provided.

  In the fourth embodiment, the first piston 421 may be formed integrally with the first connecting portion 423 using, for example, polyphenylene sulfide. That is, as a material for the first piston 421 and the first connecting portion 423, polyphenylene sulfide as an example of a resin may be used.

  Further, like the first piston 421 and the first connecting portion 423, polyphenylene sulfide as an example of a resin may be used as the material of the second piston 422 and the second connecting portion 424.

[Fifth Embodiment]
FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the first and second pistons 521 and 522 and the connecting portion 523 provided in the four-way switching valve according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of the connecting portion 523. In the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the four-way switching valve includes a first piston 521 disposed in a cylindrical part 1 a of the four-way switching valve body 1 and a cylindrical part 1 a of the four-way switching valve body 1. The first piston 521 is disposed in the first piston 521 in the axial direction, and has a connecting portion 523 for connecting the first piston 521 and the second piston 522. It is different from the embodiment.

  The first and second pistons 521 and 522 are made of resin, for example, and are formed separately from each other. The first piston 521 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 522. For example, polyphenylene sulfide may be used as the material of at least one of the first and second pistons 521 and 522.

A large through-hole 551 into which the valve body 3 is fitted is provided in the central portion of the connecting portion 523 in the axial direction. A first small through hole 552 that can face the second port 12 is provided on the side of the large through hole 551 on the first piston 521 side. On the other hand, a notch 554 that extends in the axial direction and can partially face the fourth port 14 is provided on the side of the large through hole 551 on the second piston 522 side. The axial lengths of the first small through hole 552 and the notch 554 are shorter than the axial length of the large through hole 551.

  The notch 554 is provided at one end 523 a of the connecting portion 523. Thereby, the one end part 523a of the connection part 523 is easily elastically deformed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11, an insertion hole 561 through which one end 523 a of the connection part 523 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the second piston 522 on the connection part 523 side. The insertion hole 561 communicates with the accommodation chamber 562 in the second piston 522.

  When one end 523 a of the connecting portion 523 is inserted into the insertion hole 561 of the second piston 522, a part of the one end 523 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 562. At this time, the trapezoidal portion in plan view that protrudes in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction at the one end 523a is engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the insertion hole 561. As a result, the one end 523a cannot be detached from the second piston 522. That is, the connecting portion 523 can be locked to the second piston 522 by moving in the axial direction, and the locking of the connecting portion 523 to the second piston 522 cannot be released.

  Moreover, the said 1st piston 521 and the connection part 523 are integrated by insert molding, as shown in FIG. More specifically, the other end portions (end portions on the first piston 521 side) 523b-1 and 523b-2 of the connecting portion 523 are embedded in the first piston 521 and extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction. . The other end 523b-1 extends toward the lower side (the side on the valve seat 2 side), while the other end 523b-2 extends on the upper side (the side opposite to the valve seat 2 side). Extending towards.

  The connecting portion 523 is formed by processing a metal plate (for example, an aluminum plate). More specifically, the right side portion 523c and the left side portion 523d of the connecting portion 523 are formed by bending a part of the metal plate downward. Thereby, even if the large through-hole 551 is provided in the connecting portion 523, the strength of the connecting portion 523 can be prevented.

  Although not shown, annular grooves are provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first pistons 521 and 522, and a seal member is fitted in the grooves.

  According to the four-way switching valve configured as described above, the connecting portion 523 is formed so as to be engaged with the second piston 522 by moving relative to the second piston 522 in the axial direction. For example, the connecting portion 523 may not be fixed to the piston 522 with a screw. Accordingly, since the screw does not penetrate the second piston 522, it is possible to prevent the sealing performance of the second piston 522 from deteriorating.

  Further, the connecting portion 523 is formed so as to be locked to the second piston 522 by moving relative to the second piston 522 in the axial direction, so that the second piston 522 and the connecting portion 523 are cylindrical. After the insertion into the shaped portion 1a, the connecting portion 523 can be locked to the second piston 522. In other words, the second piston 522 and the connecting portion 523 can be inserted into the cylindrical portion 1a before the connecting portion 523 is locked to the second piston 522. Therefore, it is easy to insert the second piston 522 and the connecting portion 523 into the cylindrical portion 1a.

  Since the first piston 521 has substantially the same shape as the second piston 522, the pressure applied to the first and second pistons 521 and 522 when the first and second pistons 521 and 522 are operated is substantially the same. Can be set.

  Further, since the locking of the connecting portion 523 with respect to the second piston 522 cannot be released, separation of the first and second pistons 521, 522 and the connecting portion 523 can be prevented.

  Since the first piston 521 and the connecting portion 523 are integrated by insert molding, the first piston 521 made of resin and the connecting portion 523 made of metal are easily integrated without increasing the number of parts. can do.

  Further, since the other end portions 523b-1 and 523b-2 of the connecting portion 523 are embedded in the first piston 521, the possibility that the connecting portion 523 is separated from the first piston 521 can be reduced.

  Further, since the other end portions 523b-1 and 523b-2 of the connecting portion 523 are embedded in the first piston 521, the strength of the first piston 521 can be increased. Therefore, the axial length of the first piston 521 can be shortened. That is, the first piston 521 can be thinned.

  In addition, since the other end portions 523b-1 and 523b-2 of the connecting portion 523 extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction, the possibility that the connecting portion 523 is separated from the first piston 521 can be further reduced.

  In the fifth embodiment, one end portion 523a of the connecting portion 523 partially protrudes from one surface side (the upper side in FIG. 10) of the connecting portion 523, and the other portion is on the other surface side of the connecting portion 523. Although it did not protrude from (lower side in FIG. 10), it may be protruded. As an example of the connecting portion to be configured in this manner, there is a connecting portion 623 shown in FIG.

  The connecting portion 623 is formed by processing a metal plate (aluminum plate). More specifically, after cutting one end 623a of the connecting portion 623, the portion 623a-1 on one side of the one end 623a is pressed toward the arrow A1 side, and the portion 623a- on the other side of the one end 623a. 2 is pressed to the arrow A2 side. Thereby, the part 623a-1 protrudes from one surface side (upper side in FIG. 10) of the connecting part 623, and the part 623a-2 protrudes from the other surface side (lower side in FIG. 10) of the connecting part 623. . The one end 623a is an example of an end on the locking side.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of the second piston 622 attached to the one end 623a of the connecting portion 623. As shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second piston 622 and the connecting portion 623.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the second piston 622 is made of a resin (for example, polyphenylene sulfide), and has a substantially cylindrical recess on the end surface of the second piston 622 opposite to the connecting portion 623 side. 660A and 660B. On the other hand, an insertion hole 661 through which the one end 623a of the connection part 623 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the second piston 622 on the connection part 623 side. The insertion hole 661 communicates with the accommodation chamber 662 in the second piston 622.

  In addition, annular grooves 632A and 632B are provided on the peripheral surface of the second piston 622. A seal member 642A is fitted in the groove 632A. The seal member 642A has a cross-sectional shape that is divided into two forks on the connecting portion 623 side. On the other hand, a sealing member 642B having a circular cross section is fitted in the groove 632B.

  When one end 623 a of the connecting portion 623 is inserted into the insertion hole 661 of the second piston 622, a part of the one end 623 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 662. At this time, the part 623a-1 on one side of the one end 623a and the part 623a-2 on the other side of the one end 623a engage with the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the insertion hole 661. As a result, the one end 623a cannot be detached from the second piston 622. That is, the connecting portion 623 can be locked to the second piston 622 by moving in the axial direction, and the locking of the connecting portion 623 to the second piston 622 cannot be released.

  Further, the one end 623 a of the connecting portion 623 has a step between one surface side of the connecting portion 623 and the other surface side of the connecting portion 623.

  The one end 623a of the connecting portion 623 is formed such that the portion 623a-1 protrudes from one surface side of the connecting portion 623 and the portion 623a-2 protrudes from the other surface side of the connecting portion 623. Therefore, the locking of the one end 623a of the connecting portion 623 can be strengthened.

  Although not shown, the other end of the connecting portion 623 may have the same shape as the one end 623a, or the same shape as the other ends 523b-1 and 523b-2 of FIG. Also good.

  Moreover, you may attach the one end part 623a of the connection part 623 to the 2nd piston 722 shown in FIG.

  More specifically, the second piston 722 is made of resin (for example, polyphenylene sulfide), and substantially cylindrical recesses 760A and 760B are provided on the end surface of the second piston 722 opposite to the connecting portion 623 side. ing. On the other hand, an insertion hole 761 through which the one end 623a of the connection part 623 is inserted is provided on the end surface of the second piston 722 on the connection part 623 side. The insertion hole 661 communicates with a through-hole 791 of a substantially disc-shaped metal member 790 embedded in the second piston 722 and also communicates with a storage chamber 762 in the second piston 722. The shape of the metal member 790 may be a shape other than a substantially disk shape (for example, a square plate shape). The second piston 722 may be formed by sandwiching the metal member 790 between two resin members and then fusing the two resin members.

  In addition, annular grooves 732A and 732B are provided on the peripheral surface of the second piston 722. A sealing material (not shown) having the same shape as the sealing members 642A and 642B of FIG. 15 is fitted in the grooves 732A and 732B.

  When one end 623 a of the connecting portion 623 is inserted into the insertion hole 761 of the second piston 722, a part of the one end 623 a is accommodated in the accommodation chamber 762. At this time, the part 623a-1 on one side of the one end 623a and the part 623a-2 on the other side of the one end 623a are engaged with the inner surface of the peripheral edge of the through hole 791. As a result, the one end 623a cannot be detached from the second piston 722. That is, the connecting portion 623 can be locked to the second piston 722 by moving in the axial direction, and the locking of the connecting portion 623 to the second piston 722 cannot be released.

  Even when such a second piston 722 is used, the same effect as that obtained when the second piston 622 is used can be obtained.

In addition, one end 623 a of the connecting portion 623 is engaged with a metal member 790 embedded in the second piston 622. Thereby, the damage of the location which the one end part 623a of the connection part 623 latches can be prevented.

  Further, since the metal member 790 is embedded in the second piston 722, the strength of the second piston 722 can be increased. Therefore, the second piston 722 can shorten the axial length. That is, the second piston 722 can be thinned.

  Further, instead of the connecting portion 623, a connecting portion 723 shown in FIG. 17 may be used. The connecting portion 723 is formed by processing a metal plate (for example, an aluminum plate). More specifically, after cutting one end portion 723a of the connecting portion 723, the portion 723a-1 on one side surface of the one end portion 723a is pressed toward the arrow A1 side, and the portion 723a− on the other side surface of the one end portion 723a. 2 is also pressed to the arrow A1 side. Thereby, the portions 723a-1 and 723a-2 protrude from one surface side (the upper side in FIG. 17) of the connecting portion 723. The one end 723a is an example of an end on the locking side.

  As described above, the one end 723a of the connecting portion 723 is formed such that the portions 723a-1 and 723a-2 protrude from one surface side of the connecting portion 723. Therefore, the locking of the one end 723a of the connecting portion 723 can be strengthened.

  Further, the one end portion 723a of the connecting portion 723 can be formed more easily than the one end portion 623a of the connecting portion 623.

  Although not shown, the other end of the connecting portion 723 may have the same shape as the one end 723a, or the same shape as the other ends 523b-1 and 523b-2 of FIG. Also good.

  Further, the one end 723a of the connecting portion 723 may be attached to, for example, the second piston 522 of FIG. 15 or may be attached to the second piston 722 of FIG.

  Further, instead of the connecting portion 623, a connecting portion 823 shown in FIG. 18 may be used. The connecting portion 823 is formed by processing a metal plate (for example, an aluminum plate). More specifically, after cutting one end 823a of the connecting portion 823, the portion 823a-1 on one side of the one end 823a is pulled to the arrow A3 side, and the portion 823a-2 on the other side of the one end 823a. Is pulled to the arrow A4 side. Thereby, the part 823a-1 protrudes from one side surface (upper side surface in FIG. 10) of the connecting portion 823, and the portion 823a-2 is the other side surface of the connecting portion 823 (lower side in FIG. 10). Protrude from. The one end 823a is an example of an end on the locking side.

  Thus, the one end 823a of the connecting part 823 is formed such that the part 823a-1 protrudes from one side of the connecting part 823 and the part 823a-2 protrudes from the other side of the connecting part 823. The Therefore, the locking of the one end 823a of the connecting portion 823 can be strengthened.

  Although not shown, the other end of the connecting portion 823 may have the same shape as the one end 823a, or the same shape as the other ends 523b-1 and 523b-2 of FIG. Also good.

  Further, the one end 823a of the connecting portion 823 may be attached to, for example, the second piston 522 of FIG. 15 or may be attached to the second piston 722 of FIG.

  Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, one embodiment of the present invention may be a combination of the descriptions of the first to fifth embodiments and the modifications as appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Four-way switching valve main body 1a Cylindrical part 2 Valve seat 3 Valve body 21,221,321,421,521 First piston 22,322,422,522,622,722 Second piston 23,223,523,623 723,823 connection part 323 1st connection part 324 2nd connection part 31,32,231,331,332,431,431 groove | channel 41,42 Seal member 471,472 Flow path 790 Metal member

Claims (16)

A four-way selector valve body (1) having a tubular portion (1a);
A first piston (21, 221, 321, 521) disposed in the tubular part (1a);
A second piston (22, 332, 522, 622, 722) disposed in the tubular portion (1a) and facing the first piston (21, 221, 321, 521) in the axial direction;
Connecting portions (23, 223, 323, 324, 523, 623, 723) for connecting the first piston (21, 221, 321, 521) and the second piston (22, 332, 522, 622, 722). , 823),
The connecting portion (23, 223, 323, 324, 523, 623, 723, 823) is at least one of the first and second pistons (21, 221, 321, 521, 22, 332, 522, 622, 722). By being relatively moved in the axial direction with respect to one, it is formed so as to be engaged with at least one of the first and second pistons (21, 221, 321, 521, 22, 332, 522, 622, 722). A four-way switching valve characterized by The four-way selector valve according to claim 1,
4. The four-way switching valve according to claim 1, wherein the first piston (21, 221, 321, 521) has substantially the same shape as the second piston (22, 332, 522). In the four-way selector valve according to claim 1 or 2,
The connecting portion (23, 223, 323, 324, 523, 623, 723, 823) for at least one of the first and second pistons (21, 221, 321, 521, 22, 332, 522, 622, 722) The four-way switching valve is characterized in that it cannot be released. In the four-way selector valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The four-way selector valve, wherein the first piston (21, 521) is formed integrally with the connecting portion (23, 523). In the four-way selector valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The four-way switching valve, wherein the first piston (221), the second piston (22), and the connecting portion (223) are formed separately from each other. In the four-way selector valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The connecting portions (323, 324) include a first connecting portion (323) formed integrally with the first piston (321) and a second connecting portion formed integrally with the second piston (322) ( 324), and
The shape of the first connecting part (323) and the first piston (321) is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting part (324) and the second piston (322). A four-way selector valve. In the four-way selector valve according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
Annular grooves (31, 32, 231, 331, 332, 431, 431) provided on the peripheral surfaces of the first and second pistons (21, 221, 321, 22, 332);
A four-way switching valve comprising a seal member (41, 42) fitted in the groove (31, 32, 231, 331, 332, 431, 431). In the four-way selector valve according to claim 3,
The end (623a) on the locking side of the connecting portion (623) has a part (623a-1) protruding from one surface side of the connecting portion (623) and the other part (623a-2). Is formed so as to protrude from the other surface side of the connecting portion (623). In the four-way selector valve according to claim 3,
The end (723a) on the locking side of the connecting portion (723) has a part (723a-1) protruding from one surface side of the connecting portion (723) and the other part (723a-2). Is formed so as to protrude from one surface side of the connecting portion (723). In the four-way selector valve according to claim 3,
The end (823a) on the locking side of the connecting portion (823) has a part (823a-1) protruding from one side of the connecting portion (823) and the other part (823a-2). Is formed so as to protrude from the other side surface of the connecting portion (823). The four-way selector valve according to any one of claims 8 to 10,
A four-way switching characterized in that an end (623a) on the locking side of the connecting portion (623) is locked to a metal member (799) embedded in the first piston or the second piston (722). valve. The four-way selector valve according to claim 4,
An end (523b-1, 523b-2) on the first piston (522) side of the connecting portion (523) is embedded in the first piston (522), and the four-way switching valve is characterized in that . The four-way selector valve according to claim 12,
An end portion (523b-1, 523b-2) of the connecting portion (523) on the first piston (522) side extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction. A four-way selector valve body (1) having a tubular portion (1a);
A first piston (421) disposed in the tubular part (1a);
A second piston (422) disposed in the cylindrical part (1a) and facing the first piston (421) in the axial direction;
A first connecting part (423) formed integrally with the first piston (421), for connecting the first piston (421) and the second piston (422);
The second piston (422) is integrally formed, and includes the first piston (421) and a second connecting part (424) for connecting the second piston (422),
The first connection part (423) is formed to be engaged with the second connection part (424) by moving relative to the second piston (422) in the axial direction. A four-way selector valve. The four-way selector valve according to claim 14,
The shape of the first connecting part (423) and the first piston (421) is substantially the same as the shape of the second connecting part (424) and the second piston (422). A four-way selector valve. The four-way selector valve according to claim 14 or 15,
At least one of the first and second connection parts (424) is a flow path for guiding fluid from one end of the four-way switching valve body (1) to the other end of the four-way switching valve body (1). (471,472) Four-way selector valve characterized by having.

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