JP2015218893A - Channel switching valve and air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent ports from communicating with one another midway through the operation of switching a channel switching valve with the three ports, and prevent enlargement of a diameter of the channel switching valve.SOLUTION: A main valve body 56 and an auxiliary valve body 57 are arranged in such a manner as to overlap each other. The main valve body 56 can switch between a first connection position to communicate first and second connection ports with each other through a first communication passage 58a and a second connection position to communicate the first and third connection ports with each other through a second communication passage 58b. Additionally, the auxiliary valve body 57 can switch between a blocking position in which the first and second communication passages 58a and 58b are blocked, and an open position in which the first and second communication passages 58a and 58b are communicated with each other.

Description

  The present invention relates to a flow path switching valve and an air conditioner including the flow path switching valve.

  Conventionally, an air conditioner configured to include an outdoor unit having a heat source side heat exchanger and a plurality of indoor units having a use side heat exchanger, and each indoor unit can be operated by switching between heating and cooling individually. An apparatus is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this air conditioner, in addition to the operation of cooling in all rooms and the operation of heating in all rooms, the heating / cooling simultaneous operation in which cooling is performed in some rooms and heating is performed in some other rooms at the same time Is configured to be possible.

  A refrigerant flow switching unit is connected between the outdoor unit and each indoor unit of the air conditioner. This refrigerant flow path switching unit includes a flow path switching valve (101) in which three connection ports (A, B, C) are formed in a valve seat (103) fixed to the valve case (102) (FIG. 12). To FIG. 15). The first connection port (A) of the flow path switching valve (101) is connected to the indoor heat exchanger (111), and the second and third connection ports (B, C) are respectively a high pressure gas pipe (112) and a low pressure gas. Connected to the pipe (113).

  The flow path switching valve (101) is in a heating operation in which the first connection port (A) on the indoor heat exchanger (111) side and the third connection port (C) on the high pressure gas pipe (112) side communicate with each other. During the cooling operation in which the first connection position (FIG. 12) is connected to the first connection port (A) on the indoor heat exchanger (111) side and the second connection port (B) on the low pressure gas pipe (113) side. Of the second connection position (FIG. 13), the first connection port (A) on the indoor heat exchanger (111) side, and the second and third connection ports (B, B) on the two gas pipes (112, 113) side. Circumference having the same diameter as the pitch circle of the valve seat (103) where each connection port (A, B, C) is arranged so as to switch to the third connection position (Fig. 14) communicating with C) A valve body (104) having an arcuate communication path (105) located above is provided. The third connection position is the position of all cooling operation in which all indoor heat exchangers (111) perform cooling. At this time, the two gas pipes (112, 113) are both low-pressure gas pipes, Side pressure loss is suppressed.

  A seal ring (106) is provided around the communication passage (105) formed in the valve body (104). In the first connection position during the heating operation shown in FIG. 12, the second connection port (B ) Is shielded by the seal ring (106), the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other through the space outside the valve body (104). Further, at the second connection position during the cooling operation shown in FIG. 13, the first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) communicate with each other inside the communication path (104), and the entire cooling shown in FIG. At the time of the third connection position, the first connection port (A), the second connection port (B), and the third connection port (C) are outside the communication path (105) (the space around the valve body (104)). Are communicating.

JP 2012-037224 A

  By the way, when the position of the flow path switching valve (101) is switched between the first connection position and the second connection position, as shown in FIG. 15, two connection ports on the gas pipe (112, 113) side during the switching. It is conceivable that (B, C) communicate with each other via the first connection port (A) on the indoor heat exchanger (111) side. Then, the high-pressure refrigerant leaks to the low-pressure side, and the efficiency of the other indoor heat exchanger (111) that is not in the middle of switching is reduced. Therefore, the connection ports (B, C) on the gas piping (112, 113) side are prevented from communicating with each other when the flow path switching valve (101) is switched between the first connection position and the second connection position. Therefore, it is conceivable to adopt a structure that prevents the connection ports (B, C) from communicating with each other at a position in the middle of switching.

  However, if the flow path switching valve (101) can be switched to three positions and the connection port (B, C) is prevented from communicating with each other in the middle of switching, the diameter of the pitch circle Increases, the valve body (104) of the flow path switching valve 101) increases, and the diameter of the flow path switching valve (101) may increase.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and its purpose is to prevent connection ports from communicating with each other during switching of a flow path switching valve having three connection ports. It is to prevent the diameter of the flow path switching valve from increasing.

  The first invention relates to a valve seat (52) having a first connection port (A) and a second connection port (B) and a third connection port (C) formed on both sides of the first connection port (A). ), A first connection position where the first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) communicate, a second connection position where the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) communicate, and A valve body (56, 57) configured to switch a third connection position where the first connection port (A), the second connection port (B), and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other; 52) is assumed to be a flow path switching valve provided with a valve case (55) in which a valve element (56, 57) is housed while being fixed.

  The flow path switching valve includes a main valve body (56) and an auxiliary valve body (57) in which the valve bodies (56, 57) are arranged to overlap each other, and the main valve body (56) The first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) are formed, and the first communication port (A) and the second connection port (B) communicate with each other through the first communication path (58a). The position of the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) can be switched to a second communication position where the second connection passage (58b) communicates, and the auxiliary valve body (57) The main valve body (56) is in the first communication position or the second communication position, the blocking position for blocking the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) from each other, and the main valve body (56) An open position in which the valve body (56, 57) is in the third connection position by communicating the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) in the second communication position. The main valve body (56) is provided with seal members (66a, 66) for the valve seat (52) around the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b). 66b), and the seal member (66a, 66b) is connected to the second connection port (B) when the main valve body (56) is at an intermediate position between the first communication position and the second communication position. And the third connection port (C) are prohibited from communicating with each other.

  In the first invention, as shown in FIG. 4, when the main valve body (56) is switched to the first communication position with the auxiliary valve body (57) set to the shut-off position, the first connection port (A) and the first connection port (A) Two connection ports (B) communicate with each other through the first communication path (58a). Further, when the main valve body (56) is switched to the second communication position with the auxiliary valve body (57) set to the shut-off position as shown in FIG. 6, the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C ) Communicates through the second communication path (58b). At this time, the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) are blocked from each other. Further, when the main valve body (56) is switched to the second communication position with the auxiliary valve body (57) set to the open position as shown in FIG. 8, the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b ) Communicate with each other, and the first connection port (A), the second connection port (B), and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, when the main valve body (56) is at an intermediate position between the first communication position and the second communication position, the second connection port (B) and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other. This is prevented by the sealing members (66a, 66b).

  According to a second invention, in the first invention, the main valve body (56) is configured to be rotatable with respect to the valve seat (52), the first connection port (A) of the valve seat (52), The second connection port (B) and the third connection port (C) and the first communication passage (58a) and the second communication passage (58b) of the main valve body (56) are the main valve body (56). It is characterized by being formed on the circumference of mutually the same radius centering on the rotation center.

  In the second aspect of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 8, the main valve body (56) is rotated with respect to the valve seat (52), so that the valve body (56, 57) is moved to the first connection position. The first connection port (A) can communicate with the second connection port (B), and the first connection port (A) can be switched to the third connection port (A). The state communicating with C) can be switched.

  In a third aspect based on the second aspect, the valve case (55) is provided with a drive mechanism (60, 61, 62, 63), and the drive mechanism (60, 61, 62, 63) is driven. The shaft (63) is formed with a first drive part (63a) for driving the main valve body (56) and a second drive part (63b) for driving the auxiliary valve body (57), and the drive shaft (63 ), When the main valve body (56) is switched from the first communication position to the second communication position by the first drive section (63a), the second drive section (63b) brings the auxiliary valve body (57) to the shut-off position. The second drive unit (63b) is the auxiliary valve body when the first drive unit (63a) is used to switch the main valve body (56) from the second communication position to the cutoff release position opposite to the first connection position. (57) is switched from the shut-off position to the open position, and the second drive section (63b) is the auxiliary valve body when the first drive section (63a) switches the main valve body (56) from the shut-off release position to the second communication position. Open (57) The second drive unit (63b) opens the auxiliary valve body (57) when the main valve body (56) is switched from the second communication position to the first communication position by the first drive unit (63a). It is characterized in that it is configured to switch from to the blocking position.

  In the third aspect of the invention, when the main valve body (56) is in the first communication position and the auxiliary valve body (57) is in the blocking position, the first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) It communicates through the first communication path (58a) (FIG. 4). As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, when the main valve body (56) is switched from the first communication position to the second communication position by the first drive section (63a) of the drive shaft (63), the second drive section (63b) is used. Since the auxiliary valve body (57) is held in the cutoff position, the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other through the second communication path (58b) after switching. As shown in FIGS. 6 to 7, when the main valve body (56) is switched from the second communication position to the cutoff release position opposite to the first connection position, the auxiliary valve body (57) is switched from the cutoff position to the open position. Change. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 8, when the main valve body (56) is switched from the shut-off release position to the second communication position, the auxiliary valve body (57) is held in the open position, so that the valve bodies (56, 57 ) Enters the third connection position, and the first connection port (A), the second connection port (B), and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other. Further, as shown in FIGS. 8 to 6 and FIG. 4, when the main valve body (56) is switched from the second communication position to the first communication position, the auxiliary valve body (57) is switched from the open position to the cutoff position, The first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) return to the state of communicating through the first communication path (58a). Thus, the communication state of each port is switched by rotating the valve body (56, 57).

  In a fourth aspect based on the third aspect, the first drive section (63a) constitutes a full range drive type drive mechanism (65A) in which the drive shaft (63) and the main valve body (56) rotate integrally. The second drive section (63b) does not drive the auxiliary valve body (56) when the main valve body (56) rotates within an angular range between the first communication position and the second communication position. When the body rotates beyond the angular range, a drive range limited drive mechanism (65B) is configured to drive the auxiliary valve body (56).

  In the fourth aspect of the invention, the first drive portion (63a) has a structure in which the drive shaft (63) and the main valve body (56) rotate integrally, and the second drive portion (63b) is the main valve body (56). ), The operation range of the valve element (56, 57) in the third aspect of the invention can be reliably realized. Further, the drive range limiting drive mechanism (65B) can be realized by combining, for example, a semi-circular shaft with a driving hole having a fan-shaped cross section with a central angle larger than 180 °.

  5th invention is provided in the refrigerant circuit (10) which has a compressor (21), a heat-source side heat exchanger (22), and a plurality of utilization side heat exchangers (31), and each utilization side heat exchanger An air conditioner provided with a flow path switching valve (51) for switching the flow path of the refrigerant so that (31) communicates with either the discharge pipe (11) or the suction pipe (12) of the compressor (21) Is assumed.

  And in this air conditioning apparatus, the said flow-path switching valve (51) is a flow-path switching valve of Claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, and the said flow-path switching valve (51) is the said valve body ( 56, 57) in the first connection position or the second connection position, the first connection port (A) is connected to the use-side heat exchanger (31), and the second connection port (B) and One of the third connection ports (C) is connected to the discharge pipe (11) of the compressor (21), and the other is connected to the suction pipe (12) of the compressor (21), while the valve body (56, 57) in the third connection position, the first connection port (A) is connected to the use side heat exchanger (31), and the second connection port (B) and the third connection port (C). Both are connected to the suction pipe (12) of the compressor (21).

  In this fifth invention, the first connection port (A) of the flow path switching valve (51) is connected to the indoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner, and the second connection port (B) is connected to the high-pressure gas pipe. When the third connection port (C) is connected to the low-pressure gas pipe, the first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) are switched by switching the valve body (56, 57) to the first connection position. As shown in FIG. 4, it can be set to the 1st connection position to which an indoor heat exchanger and a high pressure gas piping are connected, making it communicate through a 1st communicating path (58a). Further, by switching the valve bodies (56, 57) to the second connection position, the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) are communicated with each other through the second communication path (58b). As shown, it can be set to the second connection position where the indoor heat exchanger and the low-pressure gas pipe are connected. Furthermore, in the fifth aspect of the invention, the first connection port (A), the second connection port (B), and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other through the second communication path (58b) in the third connection position of FIG. Can be set to In the third connection position, the high-pressure gas pipe at the first connection position and the second connection position is also used as the low-pressure gas pipe as shown in FIG. 10, so that the cross-sectional area of the low-pressure gas pipe can be increased. . Further, in the configuration using the flow path switching valve (51) that can be set to the first connection position, the second connection position, and the third connection position, in an intermediate position between the first connection position and the second connection position. Unnecessary communication between high-pressure gas piping and low-pressure gas piping can be prevented.

  In a sixth aspect based on the fifth aspect, the refrigerant circuit (10) includes a discharge side port connected to the discharge pipe (11) and a heat source side connected to the heat source side heat exchanger (22). A first three-way valve (24) formed with a suction port connected to the port and the suction pipe (12), a discharge side port connected to the discharge pipe (11), and the flow path switching valve (51) And a second three-way valve (25) formed with a suction side port connected to the suction pipe (12), while the flow path switching valve (51) 2 When the use side port of the three-way valve (25) and the suction side port are in communication with each other and the discharge side port is closed, the valve body (56, 57) is switched to the third connection position, thereby 1. Switch to a fully-cooled state where the second and third connection ports (C) all communicate. It is characterized by a door.

  In the sixth aspect of the invention, when the valve body (56, 57) is switched to the third connection position, the second connection port is provided by the first three-way valve (24) and the second three-way valve (25) as shown in FIG. The pipe connected to (B) and the pipe connected to the third connection port (C) are switched to the low-pressure gas pipe. As a result, pressure loss in the low-pressure gas pipe can be reduced in the state of all cooling in which cooling is performed in all the rooms.

  According to the present invention, three connection ports (A, B, C) are provided, and the valve body (56, 57) can be switched to three positions of the first connection position, the second connection position, and the third connection position. In a possible flow path switching valve, a main valve body having a first communication path (58a) and a second communication path (58b) each provided with a sealing member (66a, 66b) as a valve body (56, 57). (56) and an auxiliary valve body (57) for switching between communication and blocking of the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) of the main valve body (56). By providing the auxiliary valve body (57), the communication state and the cutoff state of the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) of the main valve body (56) can be easily switched. . Further, since the auxiliary valve element (57) can be provided so as to overlap the main valve element (56), the three positions can be switched without increasing the diameter of the main valve element (56). Therefore, the flow path switching valve can be prevented from increasing in size (increasing in diameter).

  According to the second aspect, the position of the main valve body (56) can be switched by rotating the main valve body (56) with respect to the valve seat (52). Therefore, in the flow path switching valve, a state where the first connection port (A) communicates with the second connection port (B) and a state where the first connection port (A) communicates with the third connection port (C). It can be set easily. In the second aspect of the invention, it is easy to realize a configuration for switching between the shut-off position and the open position by rotating the auxiliary valve element (57), and the configuration can be simplified.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, the valve body (56, 57) can be switched to the first connection position, the second connection position, and the third connection position using the drive mechanism (60, 61, 62, 63). .

  According to the fourth aspect of the invention, the first drive unit (63a) constitutes a mechanism in which the drive shaft (63) and the main valve body (56) rotate integrally, and the second drive unit (63b) has an angular range. By configuring the limited drive mechanism, the operation of the valve body (56, 57) in the third invention can be realized with a simple configuration.

  According to the fifth aspect of the invention, the high pressure gas piping side port and the low pressure gas piping side port communicate with each other at a position in the middle of switching the flow path switching valve (51) between the first connection position and the second connection position. It is possible to prevent a problem that the performance of the indoor unit (30) deteriorates. In addition, the pressure loss of the low-pressure gas refrigerant can be suppressed.

  According to the sixth aspect of the invention, the pressure loss of the low-pressure gas pipe can be reduced in the fully cooled state, so that it is possible to effectively suppress the performance degradation of the indoor unit.

FIG. 1 is a piping system diagram of a refrigerant circuit of an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the refrigerant flow path switching unit. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the refrigerant flow path switching unit. FIG. 4 is a plan sectional view showing the position of the valve body of the flow path switching valve in the first position during heating operation, FIG. 4 (A) shows the position of the auxiliary valve body, and FIG. 4 (B) shows the main valve. Shows the position of the body. FIG. 5 is a plan sectional view showing a state in which the valve body of the flow path switching valve is at an intermediate position between the heating operation and the cooling operation. FIG. 5 (A) shows the position of the auxiliary valve body, and FIG. The position of the main valve body is shown. 6 is a plan sectional view showing the position of the valve body of the flow path switching valve in the second position during cooling operation, FIG. 6 (A) shows the position of the auxiliary valve body, and FIG. 6 (B) shows the main valve. Shows the position of the body. FIG. 7 is a plan sectional view showing a state in which the valve body of the flow path switching valve is at an intermediate position between the cooling operation and the entire cooling operation. FIG. 7 (A) shows the position of the auxiliary valve body, and FIG. Indicates the position of the main valve element. FIG. 8 is a plan sectional view showing the position of the valve body of the flow path switching valve in the third position during the entire cooling operation. FIG. 6 (A) shows the position of the auxiliary valve body, and FIG. The position of the valve body is shown. FIG. 9 is a refrigerant circuit diagram illustrating the flow of the refrigerant during all heating operations. FIG. 10 is a refrigerant circuit diagram illustrating the flow of the refrigerant during the entire cooling operation. FIG. 11 is a refrigerant circuit diagram illustrating a refrigerant flow during simultaneous heating / cooling operation. It is sectional drawing which shows the state which has a valve body in the 1st connection position at the time of heating operation in the conventional flow-path switching valve. It is sectional drawing which shows the state which has a valve body in the 2nd connection position at the time of air_conditionaing | cooling operation in the conventional flow-path switching valve. It is sectional drawing which shows the state which has all the valve bodies in the 3rd connection position at the time of air_conditionaing | cooling operation in the conventional flow-path switching valve. It is sectional drawing which shows the state which has a valve body in the intermediate position between a 1st connection position and a 2nd connection position in the conventional flow-path switching valve.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

Embodiment 1 of the Invention
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The first embodiment relates to an air conditioner (1) that can individually heat or cool a plurality of rooms as shown in FIG. This air conditioner (1) is a so-called cooling / heating-free air conditioner capable of performing an operation of cooling one room while cooling another room (an operation in which heating and cooling are mixed in the system).

  The air conditioner (1) includes one outdoor unit (20), three indoor units (30, 30, 30), and three refrigerant flow switching units (50, 50, 50). A refrigerant circuit (10) connected by piping is provided. In the refrigerant circuit (10), the refrigerant circulates to perform a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

<Configuration of outdoor unit>
The outdoor unit (20) constitutes a heat source side unit, and includes a compressor (21), an outdoor heat exchanger (22), an outdoor expansion valve (23), a first three-way valve (24), and a second three-way valve (25 ). The compressor (21) is an inverter type compressor having a variable capacity. The outdoor heat exchanger (22) is a cross-fin heat exchanger and constitutes a heat source side heat exchanger. The outdoor expansion valve (23) is composed of, for example, an electronic expansion valve.

  The first and second three-way valves (24, 25) have a first port, a second port, and a third port, respectively. The first three-way valve (24) has a first port connected to the discharge pipe (11) of the compressor (21), a second port connected to the outdoor heat exchanger (22), and a third port connected to the compressor (21). Connected to the suction pipe (12). The second three-way valve (25) has a first port (discharge side port) connected to the discharge pipe (11) of the compressor (21), and a second port (use side port) connected to each refrigerant flow switching unit (50). The third port (suction side port) is connected to the suction pipe (12) of the compressor (21). The first and second three-way valves (24, 25) have a state in which the third port is closed at the same time that the first and second ports communicate with each other (a state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 1), a second port and a third port. Can be switched to a state in which the first port is closed at the same time as is communicated with (a state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1).

<Configuration of indoor unit>
The air conditioner (1) includes first to third indoor units (30). In the following description, the first, second, and third indoor units (30) are referred to in order from the top of FIG. Each indoor unit (30) includes an indoor heat exchanger (31) and an indoor expansion valve (32). Each indoor heat exchanger (31) is a cross fin type heat exchanger, and constitutes a use side heat exchanger. Each indoor heat exchanger (31) has one end connected in parallel to the end of the liquid pipe (15). Each indoor expansion valve (32) is composed of, for example, an electronic expansion valve. Each indoor expansion valve (32) is provided on one end side of the corresponding indoor heat exchanger (31).

<Configuration of refrigerant flow path switching unit>
The air conditioner (1) includes first to third refrigerant flow switching units (50) corresponding to the indoor units (30) described above. In the following description, the first, second and third refrigerant flow switching units (50) will be referred to in order from the top of FIG. Each refrigerant channel switching unit (50) includes a channel switching valve (51). In this flow path switching valve (51), each indoor heat exchanger (31) is either a discharge pipe (high pressure gas pipe) (11) or a suction pipe (low pressure gas pipe) (12) of the compressor (21). The refrigerant flow path is switched so as to communicate with the air conditioner, and the operation state of the air conditioner (1) is switched between the cooling operation and the heating operation.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 8, the flow path switching valve (51) has a first connection port (A), a second connection port (B), and a third connection port (C). In FIG. 1, the first connection port (A) corresponds to the circled number (1), the second connection port (B) corresponds to the circled number (2), and the third connection port (C) corresponds to the circled number (3 ).

  In the flow path switching valve (51), the first connection port (A) is connected to the indoor heat exchanger (31), the second connection port (B) is connected to the second port of the second three-way valve (25), The third connection port (C) is connected to the suction pipe (12). The flow path switching valve (51) has a first connection position in a heating state in which the first and second connection ports (A, B) communicate with each other and at the same time the third connection port (C) is closed (the solid line and FIG. 1). 4) and the second connection position in the cooling state in which the first and third connection ports (A, C) communicate with each other and the second connection port (B) is closed at the same time (the broken line in FIG. 1 and FIG. 6). The state shown in FIG. FIG. 5 shows a state where the flow path switching valve (51) is at an intermediate position (switching intermediate position) between the first connection position of FIG. 4 and the second connection position of FIG. In addition, the flow path switching valve (51) has a third connection position in a fully cooled state in which the first connection port (A), the second connection port (B), and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other (see FIGS. 8 and 8). The state shown in FIG. 10 is also switchable. FIG. 7 shows a state where the flow path switching valve (51) is at an intermediate position between the second connection position of FIG. 6 and the third connection position of FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the internal structure of the refrigerant flow path switching unit (50), and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the refrigerant flow path switching unit. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the refrigerant flow switching unit (50) includes a flow switching valve (51), a motor (60) as a drive mechanism, a gear box (62), and a valve body ( 56, 57) and a valve case (55). The gear box (62) and the valve body (56, 57) are housed in the valve case (55), and the motor (60) is mounted on the upper end surface of the valve case (55). The motor (60) is formed of a stepping motor and can control the rotation angle of the valve body (56, 57). As a result, it is possible to perform control such that the valve body (56, 57) is gradually opened to reduce the refrigerant sound when the valve is opened.

  A drive transmission shaft (61) is connected to the motor (60), and the drive transmission shaft (61) is connected to the gear box (62). The gear box (62) is a speed reduction mechanism, and a drive shaft (63) is connected to the output shaft (62a). The drive shaft (63) is fitted to the valve body (56, 57) of the flow path switching valve (51). The motor (60), the drive transmission shaft (61), the gear box (62), and the drive shaft (63) constitute a drive mechanism for the valve bodies (56, 57).

  The valve case (55) includes a valve seat (52, 53, 54) and a body (55a) in which the valve seat (52, 53, 54) is fixed and the valve body (56, 57) is accommodated. It has. The valve seat (52, 53, 54) is composed of a disc-shaped first valve seat (52), second valve seat (53), and third valve seat (54) arranged at predetermined intervals in order from the bottom. Yes. The valve body (56, 57) is composed of a main valve body (56) and an auxiliary valve body (57), and the main valve body (56) is composed of the first valve seat (52) and the second valve seat (53). The auxiliary valve body (57) is disposed between the second valve seat (53) and the third valve seat (54) so as to be rotatable with respect to the first and second valve seats (52, 53). 2, It arrange | positions so that rotation with respect to the 3rd valve seat (53,54) is possible. The main valve body (56) and the auxiliary valve body (57) are arranged one above the other so as to sandwich the second valve seat (53).

  The opposing surfaces of the first valve seat (52) and the second valve seat (53), that is, the upper surface of the first valve seat (52) and the lower surface of the second valve seat (53) are flat valve seat surfaces ( 52a, 53a). The opposing surfaces of the second valve seat (53) and the third valve seat (54), that is, the upper surface of the second valve seat (53) and the lower surface of the third valve seat (54) are also flat valve seats. It is formed on the surface (53a, 54a).

  As shown in FIG. 4, the first valve seat (52) is formed with first to third connection ports (A, B, C). One end of each of the first to third connection ports (A, B, C) opens to the valve seat surface (52a) and extends from the opening of the valve seat surface (52a) in the thickness direction of the first valve seat (52). The first valve seat (52).

  The openings of the first to third connection ports (A, B, C) are arranged at predetermined angular intervals (90 ° intervals) so that the respective hole centers are located on the same virtual circumference (pitch circle). Has been. Specifically, the openings of the second connection port (B) and the third connection port (C) are located on both sides of the opening of the first connection port (A), and the first connection port (A) And the opening of the second connection port (B) are set equal to the distance between the opening of the first connection port (A) and the opening of the third connection port (C).

  In FIG. 2, a bearing (not shown) is fitted into the third valve seat (54) at the center, and the output shaft (62a) of the gear box (62) is fitted into this bearing.

  The second valve seat (53) has a first communication hole (D) having the same diameter as that of the first connection port (A) on the same center as the first connection port (A). A second communication hole (E) having the same diameter as the second connection port (B) is formed on the same center as B).

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 8, the main valve body (56) has a first communication path (58 a) and a second communication path ( 58b) is formed. Each communication path (58a, 58b) is used to switch the communication state between the first to third connection ports (A, B, C) of the first valve seat (52). For example, in FIG. 4B, the valve body (56) has a first communication passage (58a) positioned on the first and second connection ports (A, B), and the first and second connection ports ( A, B) is in the first connection position in the cooling state where the communication is made between the second connection passage (58b) is located on the third connection port (C) and the third connection port (C) is closed. Yes. At this time, the auxiliary valve body (57) is in the blocking position shown in FIG. 4A, and the first communication hole (D) and the second communication hole (E) are not in communication with each other (the auxiliary valve body (57 ) Will be described in detail later).

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 8, the planar shape of the main valve element (56) has two circular shapes (a portion where the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) are not formed). The outer periphery of the shape is recessed toward the center. The main valve body (56) is rotatably provided around an axis perpendicular to the valve seat surface (52a, 53a, 54a), and the drive transmission shaft (61) of the motor (60) and the drive shaft concentric with it. It rotates integrally with the drive shaft (63) around the axis of (63). That is, the main valve body (56) is displaced in the rotational direction with respect to the first valve seat (52).

  The lower end surface of the drive shaft (63) is located on the same plane as the lower end surface of the main valve body (56). The drive shaft (63) is rotatably supported by the first valve seat (52) by a support pin (64) provided at the lower end.

  The auxiliary valve body (57) is an arm that rotates within a predetermined angle range about the axis of the drive shaft (63). The arm shape of the auxiliary valve body (57) is formed such that the tip side is wider than the center side of rotation. The auxiliary valve body (57) has an operation switching hole having the same center as that of the second communication hole (E) of the second valve seat (53) and the same diameter as that of the second communication hole (E) in FIG. (57b) is formed. This operation switching hole (57b) prohibits the communication of the three connection ports (A, B, C) at the positions shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 (blocking position described later) overlapping the second communication hole (E). These are holes for communicating the three connection ports (A, B, C) at the position of FIG. 8 (open position described later) that does not overlap the second communication hole (E).

  The main valve body (56) includes a first communication position (FIG. 4) during heating operation in which the first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) communicate with each other through the first communication path (58a), The first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) are configured to be switchable to a second communication position (FIGS. 6 and 8) during cooling operation in which the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other through the second communication path (58b). The auxiliary valve body (57) is connected to the first communication passage (58a) and the first communication passage (58a) by shielding the second communication hole (E) while the main valve body (56) is in the first communication position or the second communication position. A blocking position (FIGS. 4 and 6) for blocking the two communicating passages (58b) from each other and a first communicating hole (E) by opening the second communicating hole (E) in a state where the main valve body (56) is in the second communicating position. The communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) are connected to each other so that the flow path switching valve (51) can be switched to an open position (FIG. 8) where the third connection position is set.

  The drive shaft (63) includes a first drive unit (63a) that drives the main valve body (56) and a second drive unit (63b) that drives the auxiliary valve body (57). The first drive section (63a) constitutes a full-range drive type drive mechanism (65A) in which the drive shaft (63) and the main valve body (56) rotate together by the engagement of the key (63c). . The second drive unit (63b) is a drive pin having a non-circular cross section formed on the drive shaft (63). The auxiliary valve body (57) has a non-circular cross-section drive hole (57a) corresponding to the second drive portion (63b), and the drive angle is determined by the drive pin (63b) and the drive hole (57a). A limited drive mechanism (65B) is constructed.

  Specifically, the drive pin (63b) is an axis having a semicircular cross section, and a straight part of the semicircle is a drive surface for driving the auxiliary valve body (57). The drive hole (57a) of the auxiliary valve body (57) is a fan-shaped hole having a central angle of 270 °. With this configuration, the drive pin (63b) rotates independently without driving the auxiliary valve element (57) as long as the drive surface rotates inside the fan center angle, and rotates to a range exceeding the fan center angle. Then, the auxiliary valve body (57) is integrally rotated.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the drive shaft (63) has a second drive when the first drive part (63 a) switches the main valve body (56) from the first communication position to the second communication position. The part (63b) holds the auxiliary valve body (57) in the blocking position. Further, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 7, the drive shaft (63) rotates the main valve body (56) from the second communication position in the direction opposite to the first communication position by the first drive part (63a). When switching to the shut-off release position, the second drive unit (63b) switches the auxiliary valve body (57) from the shut-off position to the open position. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 8, the drive shaft (63) has a second drive unit when the first drive unit (63 a) returns the main valve body (56) from the shut-off release position to the second communication position. (63b) holds the auxiliary valve body (57) in the open position. Further, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 4, the drive shaft (63) has a second position when the main valve body (56) is switched from the second communication position to the first communication position by the first drive portion (63 a). The drive unit (63b) switches the auxiliary valve body (57) from the open position to the cutoff position.

  Between the first valve seat (53) and the third valve seat (54) of the flow path switching valve (51) in order to limit the rotation angle range of the auxiliary valve body (57) between the open position and the shut-off position. Is provided with stopper pins (59, 59). The stopper pins (59, 59) come into contact with the auxiliary valve body (57) from the outside at both ends of the movable range of the auxiliary valve body (57).

  In order to realize the above switching operation, the communication path (58a, 58b) has a shape and the like set as follows. That is, the communication path (58a, 58b) communicates the first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) or the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) that are adjacent to each other. It is comprised in this way, The shape of planar view is circular, and it is formed with the hole of constant width. Further, the communication path (58a, 58b) has the above-described virtual circle in which an arc passing through the center in the width direction (hereinafter referred to as a center arc) defines the position of the first to third connection ports (A, B, C). It has the same curvature as (pitch circle) and is concentric with the virtual circle. That is, the first connection port (A), the second connection port (B) and the third connection port (C) of the first valve seat (52) and the first communication passage (58a) of the valve body (56). And the 2nd communicating path (58b) is formed on the circumference of the mutually same radius centering on the rotation center of the said valve body (56). The width of the communication path (58a, 58b) is set to be the same as or slightly larger than the hole diameter of the first to third connection ports (A, B, C).

  On the first and second valve seats (52, 53) side (the upper surface side and the lower surface side in FIG. 2) of the valve body (56), a seal groove (56a) extending along the periphery of the communication path (58a, 58b). ) Are formed. In the seal groove (56a), seal rings (66a, 66b) which are seal members that close the gap between the first and second valve seats (52, 53) and the valve body (56) are fitted. Thus, the valve body (56) has a first seal that seals the valve seat (52, 53) around each of the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b). A ring (66a) and a second seal ring (66b) are provided as seal members. By this seal ring (66a, 66b), the connection port located inside the seal ring (66a, 66b) is sealed so that it does not communicate with the outside. The seal ring (66a, 66b) employs a packing made of PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene). This PTFE is merely an example, and may be appropriately selected according to usage conditions (fluid pressure or fluid physical properties).

  Between the first and second seal rings (66a, 66b) and the seal groove (56a), first and second O-rings (67a, 67b) formed of an elastic body are provided. The O-rings (67a, 67b) press the seal rings (66a, 67b) toward the first and second valve seats (52, 53), respectively.

  Then, by the seal rings (66a, 66b), the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) are connected to the first connection port (A) at the intermediate position (switching intermediate position) in FIG. It becomes a state where it does not communicate. Thus, the seal ring (66a, 66b) is connected to the second connection port (B) and the third port when the valve body (56) is at an intermediate position between the first connection position and the second connection position. Connection port (C) is prohibited from communicating.

  The auxiliary valve body (57) has a structure similar to that of the main valve body (56), and a third seal ring (66c) is provided around the operation switching hole (57b). The third seal ring (66c) prevents the refrigerant in the operation switching hole (57b) from leaking outside.

-Driving action-
<Operation of flow path switching valve>
Next, the operation of the flow path switching valve (51) will be described.

  First, in the state of FIG. 4 in which the valve body (56, 57) of the flow path switching valve (51) is in the first connection position, the main valve body (56) constituting the valve body (56, 57) is the first. The communication valve is in the communication position, and the auxiliary valve body (57) is in the blocking position. In this state, the first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) are surrounded by the first seal ring (66a) around the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b). Since the second connection ring (66b) is surrounded by the second seal ring (66b) and the operation switching hole (57b) is surrounded by the third seal ring (66c), the refrigerant is contained in the first connection port. It can only flow between (A) and the second connection port (B).

  When the drive shaft (63) is rotated counterclockwise in FIG. 4, from the state shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the second valve body (57) is kept in the blocking position and the first valve body (56). Rotates. 5, the second connection port (B) is surrounded by the first seal ring (58a) and the third connection port (C) is surrounded by the second seal ring (58b). Furthermore, since the operation switching hole (57b) is surrounded by the third seal ring (66c), the connection ports (A, B, C) do not communicate with each other, and between the connection ports (A, B, C) The refrigerant flow is cut off.

  When the main valve body (56) is switched to the second communication position in FIG. 6 (the valve bodies (56, 57) of the flow path switching valve (51) are switched to the second connection position), the second connection port (B ) Is surrounded by the first seal ring (66a), the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) are surrounded by the second seal ring (66b), and the operation switching hole (57b) is Since it is surrounded by the three seal rings (66c), the refrigerant can flow only between the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C).

  When the drive shaft (63) is further rotated counterclockwise, the auxiliary valve body (57) moves to the open position in FIG. In this position, the first communication hole (D) and the second communication hole (E) communicate with each other through the space around the auxiliary valve body (57).

  Next, when the drive shaft (63) is rotated in the clockwise direction to switch the main valve body (56) to the second communication position, the valve bodies (56, 57) are in the third connection position shown in FIG. In the operation from FIG. 7 to FIG. 8, since the auxiliary valve body (57) is stationary, the first communication hole (D) and the second communication hole (E) remain in communication. Accordingly, the first connection port (A) communicates with the third connection port (C) via the second communication path (58b), and from the first communication hole (D) and the second communication hole (E). It communicates with the second connection port (B) via the one communication path (58a).

  When the drive shaft (63) is rotated clockwise from the state shown in FIG. 8, the auxiliary valve element (57) can be switched to the state shown in FIG. When the drive shaft is further rotated in the clockwise direction, the main valve body (56) can be switched to the state shown in FIG. 4 at the first communication position.

<Operation of air conditioner>
Next, the operation of the air conditioner (1) will be described. In this air conditioner (1), multiple types of operation are possible depending on the setting of each three-way valve (24, 25) and the open / close state of the flow path switching valve (51) of each refrigerant flow path switching unit (50). It is possible. Below, typical operation is illustrated and demonstrated among these driving | operations.

<All heating operation>
The all heating operation is for heating each room by all the indoor units (30). As shown in FIG. 9, in this operation, the first three-way valve (24) is in a state where the second port and the third port communicate with each other, and the second three-way valve (25) is connected with the first port and the second port. Each is set to a communicating state. Moreover, in each refrigerant | coolant flow path switching unit (50), a valve body (56, 57) is set to the state of FIG. 4, and the 1st and 2nd connection ports (A, B) of a flow path switching valve (51) are set. The communication state is established, and the third connection port (C) is closed. In this state, the refrigerant flowing into the first communication path (58a) from the second connection port (B) flows only to the first connection port (A) because the operation switching hole (57b) is shielded. The refrigerant does not flow into or out of the third connection port (C).

  In this operation, a refrigeration cycle is performed in which the outdoor heat exchanger (22) is an evaporator and each indoor heat exchanger (31) is a condenser. In addition, in the same figure and other figures for explaining other driving | operation operation | movement, a dot is attached | subjected to the heat exchanger used as a condenser, and the heat exchanger used as an evaporator is illustrated on the white background. In this refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (21) passes through the second three-way valve (25) and then diverts to each refrigerant flow switching unit (50). The refrigerant that has passed through each refrigerant flow switching unit (50) is sent to each corresponding indoor unit (30).

  For example, when the refrigerant flows into the first indoor heat exchanger (31) in the first indoor unit (30), the refrigerant radiates heat to the indoor air and condenses in the first indoor heat exchanger (31). . As a result, the room corresponding to the first indoor unit (30) is heated. The refrigerant condensed in the first indoor heat exchanger (31) passes through the first indoor expansion valve (32).

  Here, the opening degree of the first indoor expansion valve (32) is adjusted according to the degree of supercooling of the refrigerant. That is, the first indoor expansion valve (32) increases the flow rate of the refrigerant by increasing the opening degree under the condition that the indoor heating requirement is large and the refrigerant supercooling degree is large, while the heating requirement is small. Under such conditions that the degree of supercooling of the refrigerant is small, the opening degree is reduced to control the flow rate of the refrigerant. In the 2nd and 3rd indoor unit (30), a refrigerant flows like the 1st indoor unit (30), and heating of the corresponding room is performed, respectively.

  The refrigerant that has flowed out of the indoor units (30) joins in the liquid pipe (15). When the refrigerant passes through the outdoor expansion valve (23), the refrigerant is depressurized to a low pressure and flows through the outdoor heat exchanger (22). In the outdoor heat exchanger (22), the refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor air and evaporates. The refrigerant evaporated in the outdoor heat exchanger (22) passes through the first three-way valve (24), and then is sucked into the compressor (21) and compressed again.

<All cooling operation>
In the all-cooling operation, all the indoor units (30) cool each room. As shown in FIG. 10, in this operation, the first three-way valve (24) connects the first port and the second port, and the second three-way valve (25) connects the second port and the third port. It is set to the state to communicate. In addition, each refrigerant flow switching unit (50) sets all flow switching valves (51) to the first to third by setting the valve body (56) to the third connection position in the state shown in FIG. All connection ports (A, B, C) are in communication. In this state, the refrigerant flowing into the second communication path (58b) from the first connection port (A) flows to the third connection port (C) through the second communication path (58b) and operates. Since the switching hole (57b) is opened, the first communication hole (D) and the second communication hole (E) enter the first communication path (58a) and also flow to the second connection port (B). .

  In this operation, a refrigeration cycle is performed in which the outdoor heat exchanger (22) is a condenser and each indoor heat exchanger (31) is an evaporator. Specifically, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (21) flows through the outdoor heat exchanger (22) after passing through the first three-way valve (24). In the outdoor heat exchanger (22), the refrigerant dissipates heat to the outdoor air and condenses. The refrigerant condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger (22) passes through the outdoor expansion valve (23) set to a fully opened state, flows through the liquid pipe (15), and is divided into each indoor unit (30).

  For example, in the first indoor unit (30), when the refrigerant passes through the first indoor expansion valve (32), the refrigerant is decompressed to a low pressure and flows through the first indoor heat exchanger (31). In the first indoor heat exchanger (31), the refrigerant absorbs heat from the room air and evaporates. As a result, the indoor cooling corresponding to the first indoor unit (30) is performed.

  Here, the opening degree of the first indoor expansion valve (32) is adjusted according to the degree of superheat of the refrigerant. That is, the first indoor expansion valve (32) increases the flow rate of the refrigerant by increasing the opening degree under the condition that the indoor cooling requirement is large and the degree of superheat of the refrigerant is large, while the cooling requirement is small. In such a condition that the degree of superheat of the refrigerant becomes small, the opening degree is reduced to control the flow rate of the refrigerant. In the second and third indoor units (30), the refrigerant flows similarly to the first indoor unit (30), and the corresponding indoor cooling is performed.

  The refrigerant flowing out of each indoor unit (30) flows into the first connection port (A) of each refrigerant flow switching unit (50) and then branches to the second and third connection ports (B, C). Flowing. Here, the refrigerant flowing out from the second connection port (B) passes through the second three-way valve (25) after being merged and is sucked into the compressor (21). On the other hand, the refrigerant flowing out from the third connection port (C) is sucked into the compressor (21) after joining. The refrigerant sucked into the compressor (21) is compressed again.

  Thus, in the all cooling operation, the refrigerant flowing from the indoor heat exchanger (31) into the first connection port (A) of the flow path switching valve (51) is converted into the second and third connection ports (B, C). To be branched. Thereby, the pressure loss of the refrigerant | coolant which flows through the inside of piping can be reduced.

<Simultaneous heating / cooling operation>
The heating / cooling simultaneous operation is an operation in which indoor heating is performed by some indoor units, while indoor cooling is performed by other indoor units, and heating and cooling are mixed in the system. In the heating / cooling simultaneous operation, the outdoor heat exchanger (22) serves as an evaporator or a condenser according to the operation conditions. Moreover, in each indoor unit (30), the indoor indoor heat exchanger with a heating request | requirement becomes a condenser, On the other hand, the indoor indoor heat exchanger with a cooling request | requirement becomes an evaporator. Hereinafter, an example of the cooling and heating mixed operation in which the outdoor heat exchanger (22) is a condenser, at least one of the indoor heat exchangers (31) is a condenser, and the remaining is an evaporator will be described.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, the first and second indoor units (30) heat the room, while the third indoor unit (30) cools the room. In this operation, the first and second three-way valves (24, 25) are set to communicate with the first port and the second port, respectively.

  In the first and second refrigerant flow switching units (50), as shown in FIG. 4, the first and second connection ports (A, B) are in communication, and the third connection port (C) is connected. Closed state. In this state, the refrigerant flowing into the first communication path (58a) from the second connection port (B) flows only to the first connection port (A) because the operation switching hole (57b) is shielded. The refrigerant does not flow into or out of the third connection port (C). In the third refrigerant flow switching unit (50), as shown in FIG. 6, the first and third connection ports (A, C) are in a communication state and the second connection port (B) is in a closed state. Become. In this state, the refrigerant flowing into the second communication path (58b) from the first connection port (A) flows only to the third connection port (C) because the operation switching hole (57b) is shielded. The refrigerant does not flow into or out of the second connection port (B).

  In this heating / cooling simultaneous operation, the outdoor heat exchanger (22) and the first and second indoor heat exchangers (31) are used as condensers, while the third indoor heat exchanger (31) is used as an evaporator. A refrigeration cycle is performed. Specifically, the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (21) is divided into the first three-way valve (24) side and the second three-way valve (25) side. The refrigerant that has passed through the first three-way valve (24) is condensed in the outdoor heat exchanger (22), and then flows into the liquid pipe (15) through the outdoor expansion valve (23) adjusted to a predetermined opening degree. To do.

  On the other hand, the refrigerant that has passed through the second three-way valve (25) is divided into the first refrigerant channel switching unit (50) side and the second refrigerant channel switching unit (50) side. The refrigerant that has flowed out of the first refrigerant flow switching unit (50) flows through the first indoor heat exchanger (31). In the first indoor heat exchanger (31), the refrigerant dissipates heat to the indoor air and condenses. As a result, the room corresponding to the first indoor unit (30) is heated. Here, the opening degree of the first indoor expansion valve (32) is adjusted according to the indoor heating request, as in the case of the full heating operation described above. The refrigerant used for indoor heating in the first indoor unit (30) flows out into the liquid pipe (15). Similarly, the refrigerant that has flowed out of the second refrigerant flow switching unit (50) is used for room heating in the second indoor unit (30), and then flows out into the liquid pipe (15).

  The refrigerant merged in the liquid pipe (15) flows into the third indoor unit (30). The refrigerant is decompressed to a low pressure when passing through the third indoor expansion valve (32) and then flows through the third indoor heat exchanger (31). In the third indoor heat exchanger (31), the refrigerant absorbs heat from the room air and evaporates. As a result, room cooling corresponding to the third indoor unit (30) is performed. The refrigerant used for cooling the room in the third indoor unit (30) passes through the third refrigerant flow switching unit (50), and then is sucked into the compressor (21) and compressed again.

  The above-described simultaneous heating / cooling operation is merely an example. For example, the first indoor unit (30) heats the room while the second and third indoor units (30) cool the room. You may make it.

-Effect of Embodiment 1-
According to the present embodiment, three connection ports (A, B, C) are provided, and the valve body (56, 57) is switched to three positions of the first connection position, the second connection position, and the third connection position. In the flow path switching valve (51) that can be operated, the valve body (56, 57) is connected to the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) each provided with a seal member (66a, 66b). The main valve body (56) which has and the auxiliary valve body (57) which switches interruption | blocking and communication of the 1st communicating path (58a) and the 2nd communicating path (58b) of the main valve body (56) are provided. By providing the auxiliary valve body (57), the communication state and the cutoff state of the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) of the main valve body (56) can be easily switched. . Further, since the auxiliary valve element (57) is provided so as to overlap the main valve element (56), the above three positions can be switched without increasing the diameter of the main valve element (56). Therefore, the flow path switching valve (51) can be prevented from increasing in size (increasing in diameter).

  According to the present embodiment, the position of the main valve body (56) can be easily switched by rotating the main valve body (56) with respect to the valve seat (52, 53). Therefore, in the flow path switching valve (51), the first connection port (A) communicates with the second connection port (B), and the first connection port (A) communicates with the third connection port (B). The state can be easily switched. Moreover, according to this embodiment, it is easy to implement | achieve the structure which switches an interruption | blocking position and an open position by rotating an auxiliary valve body (57), and simplification of a structure can be implement | achieved.

  Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to switch the valve bodies (56, 57) to the first connection position, the second connection position, and the third connection position using the motor (60) that is a drive mechanism. Further, since the sealing members (66a, 65b) are provided, it is possible to prevent the connection ports (A, B, C) from communicating with each other at a position midway between the first connection position and the second connection position.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the first drive unit (63a) constitutes a full-range drive type drive mechanism in which the drive shaft (63) and the main valve body (56) rotate integrally, and the second drive Since the drive mechanism (65) of the drive angle limited system is configured by the section (63b), the operation of the valve body (56, 57) can be realized with a simple configuration.

  Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the connection port on the high-pressure gas piping side and the low-pressure gas at a position in the middle of switching the valve element (56, 57) of the flow path switching valve (51) between the first connection position and the second connection position. Since the connection port (2nd connection port (B) and 3rd connection port (C)) on the piping side is prevented from communicating, there is a problem that the performance of other indoor units (30) deteriorates. Can be prevented. In addition, since the pressure loss of the low-pressure gas pipe can be reduced in a fully-cooled state, it is possible to effectively suppress the performance degradation of the indoor unit.

<< Other Embodiments >>
About the said embodiment, it is good also as the following structures.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the flow path switching valve (51) is structured such that the valve body (56) rotates, but the position is switched by the valve body (56, 57) performing a linear motion operation. You may use the flow-path switching valve of a structure.

  Moreover, the flow path switching valve (51) of the present invention may be applied to other uses such as an air conditioner other than a so-called cooling / heating-free air conditioner.

  In addition, the above embodiment is an essentially preferable illustration, Comprising: It does not intend restrict | limiting the range of this invention, its application thing, or its use.

  As described above, the present invention is useful for a flow path switching valve and an air conditioner including the flow path switching valve.

1 Air conditioner
10 Refrigerant circuit
11 Discharge pipe
12 Suction tube
21 Compressor
22 Heat source side heat exchanger
24 First three-way valve
25 Second three-way valve
31 Use side heat exchanger
51 Channel switching valve
52 Valve seat
55 Valve case
56 Main disc
57 Auxiliary valve
58a 1st passage
58b Second passage
60 Motor (drive mechanism)
61 Drive transmission shaft (drive mechanism)
62 Gearbox (drive mechanism)
63 Drive shaft (drive mechanism)
63a First drive section
63b Second drive unit
65A full range drive mechanism
65B Drive angle limited drive mechanism
66a First seal ring (seal member)
66b Second seal ring (seal member)
A First connection port
B Second connection port
C Third connection port

Claims (6)

A first connection port (A) and a valve seat (52) having a second connection port (B) and a third connection port (C) formed on both sides of the first connection port (A); The first connection position where the port (A) and the second connection port (B) communicate, the second connection position where the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) communicate, and the first connection port (A ), The second connection port (B), and the third connection port (C) communicate with each other, and the valve body (56, 57) configured to be switchable is fixed to the valve seat (52). And a valve switching valve (55) in which the valve body (56, 57) is housed,
The valve body (56, 57) includes a main valve body (56) and an auxiliary valve body (57) arranged to overlap each other,
The main valve body (56) is formed with a first communication path (58a) and a second communication path (58b), and the first connection port (A) and the second connection port (B) are the first communication path. (58a) is configured to be switchable between a first communication position communicating through the first communication port (58a) and a second communication position where the first connection port (A) and the third connection port (C) communicate through the second communication path (58b),
The auxiliary valve body (57) is a blocking position that blocks the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) from each other when the main valve body (56) is in the first communication position or the second communication position. The valve body (56, 57) is connected to the third connection by connecting the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b) with the main valve body (56) in the second communication position. It is configured to be switchable to an open position that becomes a position,
The main valve body (56) is provided with seal members (66a, 66b) for the valve seat (52) around each of the first communication path (58a) and the second communication path (58b). The seal member (66a, 66b) has a second connection port (B) and a third connection port (C) when the main valve body (56) is at an intermediate position between the first communication position and the second communication position. ) Is configured to prohibit communication, a flow path switching valve. In claim 1,
The main valve body (56) is configured to be rotatable with respect to the valve seat (52),
The first connection port (A), the second connection port (B) and the third connection port (C) of the valve seat (52), the first communication passage (58a) and the second connection port of the main valve body (56). The communication path (58b) is a flow path switching valve characterized in that it is formed on the circumference of the same radius centered on the rotation center of the main valve body (56). In claim 2,
The valve case (55) is provided with a drive mechanism (60, 61, 62, 63),
The drive shaft (63) of the drive mechanism (60, 61, 62, 63) has a first drive part (63a) for driving the main valve element (56) and a second drive for driving the auxiliary valve element (57). Part (63b) is formed,
In the drive shaft (63), the second drive unit (63b) is connected to the auxiliary valve body (57) when the first drive unit (63a) switches the main valve body (56) from the first communication position to the second communication position. ) In the shut-off position, and when the first drive part (63a) switches the main valve body (56) from the second communication position to the shut-off release position in the direction opposite to the first connection position, the second drive part (63b ) Switches the auxiliary valve body (57) from the shut-off position to the open position, and the first drive section (63a) switches the main valve body (56) from the shut-off release position to the second communication position. ) Holds the auxiliary valve body (57) in the open position, and the second drive section (63b) is used when the first drive section (63a) switches the main valve body (56) from the second communication position to the first communication position. Is configured to switch the auxiliary valve body (57) from the open position to the shut-off position. In claim 3,
The first drive unit (63a) constitutes a full range drive type drive mechanism (65A) in which the drive shaft (63) and the main valve body (56) rotate integrally,
The second drive part (63b) does not drive the auxiliary valve element (56) when the main valve element (56) rotates within an angular range between the first communication position and the second communication position, and the main valve element A flow path switching valve comprising a drive range limited drive mechanism (65B) that drives the auxiliary valve element (56) when rotated beyond the angular range. Provided in a refrigerant circuit (10) having a compressor (21), a heat source side heat exchanger (22), and a plurality of usage side heat exchangers (31), each usage side heat exchanger (31) being compressed An air conditioner comprising a flow path switching valve (51) for switching the flow path of the refrigerant so as to communicate with either the discharge pipe (11) or the suction pipe (12) of the machine (21),
The flow path switching valve (51) is the flow path switching valve according to claim 1, 2, 3, or 4.
In the state where the valve body (56, 57) is in the first connection position or the second connection position, the first connection port (A) is connected to the use side heat exchanger (31). ), One of the second connection port (B) and the third connection port (C) is connected to the discharge pipe (11) of the compressor (21), and the other is connected to the suction pipe ( 12), while the valve body (56, 57) is in the third connection position, the first connection port (A) is connected to the use side heat exchanger (31), Both the 2 connection port (B) and the 3rd connection port (C) are connected to the suction pipe (12) of a compressor (21), The air conditioning apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. In claim 5,
The refrigerant circuit (10) is connected to a discharge side port connected to the discharge pipe (11), a heat source side port connected to the heat source side heat exchanger (22), and the suction pipe (12). A first three-way valve (24) formed with a suction side port; a discharge side port connected to the discharge pipe (11); a use side port connected to the flow path switching valve (51); and the suction pipe ( A second three-way valve (25) with a suction port connected to 12) is provided,
The flow path switching valve (51) is connected to the valve body (56, 57) in a state where the use side port of the second three-way valve (25) and the suction side port are in communication with each other and the discharge side port is closed at the same time. By switching to the third connection position, the air conditioning apparatus is switched to a fully cooling state in which all of the first, second, and third connection ports (C) communicate.

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