Patent Application
20240247844
The present disclosure relates to a directional valve, for example for installation in a line, and to a heat pump with a directional valve of this kind.
Directional valves are used in fluid technology, for example, and are used to block or open the path for a fluid or to change its direction of flow. This is usually achieved by a control element that can be switched between at least two switching positions. Depending on the number of connections, a distinction can be made between two-way valves, three-way valves, four-way valves or other multi-directional valves. For example, four-way valves are typically used in heat pump systems. The four-way valve serves there as a reversing valve, in order to reverse the heat pump circuit and thus use the evaporator of the heat pump as a condenser and, accordingly, the condenser of the heat pump as an evaporator.
The present disclosure provides a novel concept for a directional valve. In particular, the directional valve is suitable for use in a heat pump.
According to one aspect, a directional valve, in particular a mechanical directional valve, is proposed, which is suitable, for example, for use in line systems/for installation into a line. The directional valve comprises, for example, a base body having at least two fluid connections, such as, for example, pipe connections and/or line connections. The fluid connections are suitable for connecting lines or pipes to them/for coupling lines and/or pipes to the directional valve/connecting them in terms of flow. The directional valve, in particular the respective fluid connection, is also suitable for passing a fluid through.
In the present disclosure, the term “fluid” is to be understood in particular as any kind of matter in the liquid and/or gaseous aggregate state. This can also include suspensions and/or aerosols. The fluid can be a liquid, such as, for example, water or oil. The fluid can also be water-based and in particular contain additives. In principle, the fluid can also contain or consist of steam, such as, for example, water vapor. The fluid can also be a mixture of water and steam.
For example, the fluid is a hydraulic fluid or a pneumatic fluid. Such a fluid is used or suitable for transmitting signals, power and/or energy, for example. The hydraulic fluid is, for example, a liquid for transmitting signals, power and/or energy. The pneumatic fluid is, for example, compressed air or another gas for transmitting signals, power and/or energy. The fluid can also be a refrigerant or a coolant.
In particular, the directional valve comprises a control element. In particular, the control element is designed to be moved/switched between at least two switching positions. For example, a passage of flow between the fluid connections is enabled in one of the switching positions. For example, in another of the switching positions, the passage of flow between the fluid connections is blocked.
With one embodiment, the control element is formed as a control slide, such as, for example, a piston slide. In particular, the control slide can be moved/displaced linearly. In particular, the control slide is assigned to the base body, in particular arranged movably in the base body. In particular, the fluid connections have an opening located in the base body and the control slide is displaceable transversely to the center axis of the opening of at least one of the fluid connections.
The directional valve also comprises, in particular, an actuator structure for switching the control element. In particular, the actuator structure is designed to move the control element between the at least two switching positions, for example to move the control element from one switching position to the other switching position. If necessary, the actuator structure is also designed to move the control element from the one other switching position back into the one switching position.
With one embodiment, the actuator structure is formed as an actuator structure with a jolt property. In particular, the actuator structure is designed to switch the control element by way of utilizing its jolt property.
In the present disclosure, the term “actuator structure with a jolt property” is to be understood in particular as a structure that is brought out of a mechanically stable position/shape, in particular an initial position/initial shape, for example by the action of a triggering force, and then, preferably automatically, transitions into another position/shape, preferably abruptly, for example deforms, in particular deforms abruptly. Preferably, such a transition takes place with a certain amount of force. It is therefore referred to as a “jolt” in the present disclosure. Such jolt is used to move/switch the control element. Preferably, the structure/actuator structure is formed so that a jolt is already triggered if the triggering force, which is also referred to below as the actuating force, acts briefly and/or in a pulsed manner on the structure/actuator structure.
Preferably, the actuator structure has an unstable movement behavior. The actuator structure preferably has or consists of a flexible material. For example, the actuator structure is made of a rubber-elastic material or has such a material. For example, the actuator structure has a curvature that changes from a convex shape to a concave shape or vice versa in the course of a jolt. Such measures favor the jolt property of the actuator structure or contribute to the jolt property.
The directional valve also comprises, in particular, an actuating device for actuating the actuator structure. With one embodiment, the actuating device is designed to actuate the actuator structure in such a manner that a jolt of the actuator structure is triggered. In particular, the actuator structure is activated by the actuating device. With this embodiment, for example, the actuating device performs a function as a triggering device/activation device.
Depending on the application, the proposed directional valve has the advantage that only a relatively small amount of actuation energy is required to execute a switching operation. This is due, for example, to the fact that the switching operation as such is effected by the actuator structure and the actuating energy to be applied is only required, in order to actuate/activate the actuator structure. For example, due to the jolt property of the actuator structure, only enough actuating energy needs to be applied to trigger the actuator structure, which then automatically transitions from one position/shape to the other position/shape, preferably abruptly, thereby executing the switching operation.
Due to its actuator structure, the proposed directional valve favors a compact design. Therefore, the directional valve is ideal for installation in device arrangements with limited installation space.
It is provided, for example, that the actuator structure is a separate component or a part of a separate assembly, which is present separately from the control element, for example. This makes it easier to retrofit existing directional valves with the actuator structure, since the existing control element is retained, for example. This also makes it easier to replace the actuator structure, since this avoids having to replace the control element, for example. Furthermore, the proposed directional valve can make use of conventional control elements that have been commonly employed until now.
One possible embodiment is that the actuator structure has a base section and a movement section, which can be moved relative to one another in one direction. For example, the actuator structure is formed so that when a jolt is triggered, the movement section moves relative to the base section from an initial position to an extended position.
In particular, the actuator structure and the control element are arranged relative to one another in such a manner that the direction of movement of the movement section of the actuator structure points in the direction in which the control element can be moved/displaced, in order to be switched. For example, the movement section then executes a movement that switches the control element upon a jolt of the actuator structure. Preferably, the base section is arranged in a manner fixed to the housing with respect to the base body and/or fastened to the base body.
If the control element is formed as a control slide, for example, it makes sense for the actuator structure to be arranged to the side of the control element. This is particularly the case if the movement section of the actuator structure can also be moved in the direction of movement of the control slide. Depending on the application, this allows a technically simple switching arrangement to be achieved, in order to move/switch the control element.
In order to actuate the actuator structure, the actuating device is designed, for example, to generate and/or exert an actuating force/triggering force on the actuator structure that triggers a jolt. Due to the actuating force, the actuator structure, for example, is brought out of a mechanically stable position and/or shape, in particular out of a mechanically stable initial position and/or initial shape or a first mechanically stable position and/or shape.
With one embodiment, the actuating device is also designed to generate a holding force and/or exert it on the actuator structure. This makes it possible to hold the actuator structure in an extended position and/or shape after a triggered jolt, for example to counteract it moving back in the direction of the initial position/initial shape, and thus to maintain the current switching position of the control element, for example. This design is suitable, for example, if the actuator structure has a monostable movement behavior.
With a further or different embodiment, the actuating device is furthermore designed to generate a further actuating force/triggering force directed in the opposite direction to the actuating force and/or to exert the actuator structure. This makes it possible to use the further actuating force to trigger a jolt of the actuator structure from a second mechanically stable position and/or shape back into the first mechanically stable position and/or shape, in particular the mechanically stable initial position and/or initial shape. This design is suitable, for example, if the actuator structure has a bistable movement behavior.
Due to the bistable movement behavior, it is possible that only the triggering force is needed to operate the directional valve. The respective switched switching position is held solely by the actuator structure, which is in a mechanically stable position and/or shape in the respective switching position, without any additional holding force having to be applied.
In the present disclosure, the term “bistable movement behavior” means in particular that the other position/shape of the actuator structure is also mechanically stable. The actuator structure can only be brought out of the other position/shape if a triggering force acts on it and, as a result, for example, a jolt back into the one mechanically stable position/shape, i.e. into the initial position/initial shape, takes place. The triggering force is, for example, identical to the triggering force that triggers a jolt of the actuator structure from the initial position/initial shape. In principle, the triggering forces can also vary in size in relation to one another.
In the present disclosure, the term “monostable movement behavior” means in particular that the other position/shape of the actuator structure is not stable, in particular not mechanically stable. In this case, for example, the actuator structure has the property of automatically leaving the other position/shape, for example in the direction of the initial position/initial shape or automatically returning to the initial position/initial shape, in particular deforming back.
According to a further embodiment, a spring element is provided, for example to cause the control element to return to an initial position, in particular an initial switching position. In particular, it is intended that the control element is moved against the force of the spring element upon switching by the actuator structure. In particular, it is further provided that the control element is moved against the force of the spring element if the movement of the control element is caused by a triggered jolt of the actuator structure from a mechanically stable initial position and/or initial shape. This promotes reset of the control element that is technically easy to implement.
For example, the spring element is supported against the control element, on the one hand, and against the base body, on the other hand. For example, the spring element acts on a side of the control element that is opposite the side of the control element on which the actuator structure acts and/or on which the actuator structure engages. For example, the spring element is a compression spring.
According to a further or different embodiment, the actuator structure and the actuating device are provided in duplicate. For example, the one actuator structure with its associated actuating device is used to move the control element in one direction, in particular to displace it. For example, the other actuator structure with its associated actuating device is used to move the control element in the opposite direction, in particular to displace it. For example, the two actuating devices can also be combined in a common actuating device. This makes it possible to move the control element in one direction and also to move the control element in the opposite direction by way of utilizing a jolt of the respective actuator structure. This facilitates the switching of the control element between the switching positions at a high switching speed. This also favors a more stable movement behavior of the control element when switching between the switching positions.
Depending on the application, the two actuating devices provided can have the advantage that each actuating device itself can be dimensioned smaller compared to the embodiment in which only a single actuating device and possibly only a single actuator structure is provided. For example, a coil provided with the respective actuating device can be dimensioned smaller. This means that, depending on the application, the respective actuating device can be formed to be more compact and therefore require less installation space.
In order to exert an actuating force on the actuator structure that triggers a jolt, the actuating device can have an electromagnetic drive. This makes it possible to use electromagnetic drive systems, which are common in previous directional valves. However, such drive systems must be selected or dimensioned in such a manner that their actuating force also triggers a jolt of the actuator structure. The electromagnetic drive is also preferably designed to generate the holding force described above.
The electromagnetic drive also makes magnetic field-based position detection possible. For example, the current position and/or shape of the actuator structure and/or the current switching position of the control element can be detected in this manner. For example, it is also possible in this manner to obtain information about whether a jolt has occurred in the actuator structure and, for example, in which direction the jolt has occurred.
In addition or alternatively, the actuating device can have a fluidic drive, in order to exert an actuating force on the actuator structure that triggers a jolt. The fluidic drive is also preferably designed to generate the holding force described above. The fluidic drive makes it possible to generate the actuating force and/or the holding force for the actuator structure using the fluid pressure of a fluid. Such fluid, which is also referred to below as the control fluid, can be a medium in a gaseous state or a liquid state.
With one embodiment, the fluidic actuator has a fluid chamber, for example for receiving the control fluid. For example, the fluid chamber is provided, in particular arranged, in the base body of the directional valve. In particular, it is provided that the fluid chamber is bounded in one direction by the actuator structure. As a result, the fluidic drive can be realized in a technically simple manner depending on the application, since the actuator structure is a part of the fluid chamber. For example, the base section of the actuator structure is connected to at least one wall of the fluid chamber in a fluid-tight manner, in particular is fastened thereto in a fluid-tight manner.
In particular, the fluid chamber is flow-connected to at least one control connection, especially a line connection. For example, the control connection is located on the base body. The fluid chamber can be flow-connected to a control line via the control connection, in order to pressurize the fluid chamber with the control fluid and thus build up the desired fluid pressure. The control connection can be flow-connected to a fluidic control device, for example via the control line. This makes it possible to set the particular desired fluid pressure in the fluid chamber in a targeted manner, in order to actuate the actuator structure.
The proposed directional valve can have more than the two fluid connections described above. For example, the directional valve can have three fluid connections, i.e. can be formed as a three-way valve. The directional valve can also have four fluid connections, i.e. can be formed as a four-way valve. If there are more than two fluid connections, the directional valve can be used as a changeover valve or reversing valve.
With one embodiment, the directional valve is a 4/2-way valve. In this case, four fluid connections are provided and the control element is designed to be moved/switched between two switching positions. For example, in one of the switching positions, the fluid connections are fluidically connected in pairs, and in the other switching position, a fluid connection of one pair is interchanged with a fluid connection of the other pair. This allows the directional valve to be used as a reversing valve, depending on the application. For example, the directional valve can be used as a reversing valve in the circuit of a heat pump.
For example, the 4/2-way valve has a first fluid connection, a second fluid connection, a third fluid connection and a fourth fluid connection. For example, in one switching position, in particular in a first switching position, the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection are flow-connected to one another and preferably there is no flow connection to the third fluid connection and/or the fourth fluid connection. For example, in the one switching position, the third fluid connection and the fourth fluid connection are also flow-connected to one another and preferably there is no flow connection to the first fluid connection and/or the second fluid connection.
For example, in the other switching position, in particular in a second switching position, the first fluid connection and the third fluid connection are flow-connected to one another and preferably there is no flow connection to the second fluid connection and/or the fourth fluid connection. For example, in the other switching position, the second fluid connection and the fourth fluid connection are also flow-connected to one another and preferably there is no flow connection to the first fluid connection and/or the third fluid connection.
With a further embodiment, it is provided that the base body has a fluid chamber. In particular, it is also provided that the fluid connections are flow-connected to the fluid chamber. For example, one of the fluid connections is arranged on a side of the base body extending in the direction of movement of the control element, in particular in the direction of displacement of the control slide, and the other fluid connections are arranged on an opposite side of the base body. For example, the control element, in particular the control slide, divides the fluid chamber into two sub-chambers, in particular in a fluid-tight manner. For example, depending on the switching position of the control element/control slide, the fluid connections are in each case flow-connected to one another in pairs via the two sub-chambers.
In another embodiment, the fluid chamber is arranged in an interior chamber of the base body. For example, the fluid chamber is bounded by the control element in the direction of movement of the control element. For example, the control element closes off the fluid chamber in such direction in a fluid-tight manner. In particular, the actuator structure is received in a receiving region of the interior chamber. In particular, the receiving region is located outside the fluid chamber. In particular, the control element delimits the receiving region from the fluid chamber, in particular delimits it in a fluid-tight manner. This makes it possible in a simple manner for the actuator structure to act against the control element, in order to move/displace it, while at the same time maintaining the fluid chamber.
According to a further aspect, a heat pump is proposed for heating or cooling spaces/for space heating or space cooling. For example, the heat pump comprises a compressor, a throttling device, a first heat exchanger, a second heat exchanger and a directional valve, in particular the directional valve described above, for example the 4/2-way valve described above. The heat pump can be a one-to-one heat pump. For example, the heat pump is an air-to-air heat pump or an air-to-water heat pump.
With one possible embodiment, the compressor, the throttling device, the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are arranged/connected in a circuit, in particular a line circuit, in the following order, in particular arranged/connected one behind the other: first heat exchanger, compressor, second heat exchanger, throttling device. For example, in this order, the compressor, the throttle device, the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are flowed through by a working fluid contained in the circuit if the first heat exchanger is used as an evaporator. In this case, the specified order therefore corresponds to the direction of flow of the working fluid.
In particular, the directional valve is integrated/interposed into the circuit between the compressor and the first heat exchanger via one pair of its fluid connections and into the circuit between the second heat exchanger and the compressor via the other pair of its fluid connections. For example, with regard to the aforementioned direction of flow of the working fluid, one pair of fluid connections is connected downstream of the first heat exchanger and upstream of the compressor and the other pair of fluid connections is connected downstream of the compressor and upstream of the second heat exchanger.
For example, the directional valve is in one switching position, which is referred to above as the first switching position. In such switching position, for example, the first fluid connection and the second fluid connection form one pair and, for example, the third fluid connection and the fourth fluid connection form the other pair. The fluid connections of each pair are flow-connected to one another in such switching position.
Based on such a design/interconnection, the first heat exchanger, for example, performs a function as a condenser. In particular, the heat pump emits useful heat via the first heat exchanger, which can be used for space heating, for example. For example, the first heat exchanger is arranged in an indoor unit of the heat pump, which is designed to be arranged inside a building to be heated.
Accordingly, for example, the second heat exchanger performs a function as an evaporator. In particular, the heat pump emits waste heat via the second heat exchanger, which is emitted into the environment, for example. For example, the second heat exchanger is located in an outdoor unit of the heat pump, which is designed to be located outside the building to be heated, in order to emit the waste heat to the outside environment.
After switching the directional valve to the other switching position, which is referred to above as the second switching position, a fluid connection of one pair is interchanged for a fluid connection of the other pair. In such switching position, the first fluid connection and the fourth fluid connection are now flow-connected to one another and the second fluid connection and the third fluid connection are also flow-connected to one another. By switching the directional valve to the second switching position, the heat pump circuit is reversed. The first heat exchanger now performs a function as an evaporator and the second heat exchanger now performs a function as a condenser.
Due to the directional valve, the heat pump can be used either for heating or cooling, depending on the switching position of the directional valve. For example, a heat pump installed in a building can be used in this manner to heat spaces in the winter months and cool them in the summer months. The directional valve also offers the possibility that when the heat pump is operated in winter, a defrosting process can be carried out by reversing the circuit, i.e. switching the directional valve. As a result, the line sections of the circuit that previously had cold medium flowing through them and/or other components of the heat pump, such as, for example, the second heat exchanger previously used as an evaporator, are now flowed through with hot medium, such that any signs of icing are reduced or even completely eliminated. Additional electrical heating for the defrosting process is then only necessary to a limited extent or not at all.
With one embodiment, the directional valve is the directional valve described above with the fluidic actuator. In this case, the control connection of the fluidic actuator is fluidically connected to the circuit, for example. As a result, the fluid pressure in the fluid chamber of the fluidic actuator is the same as the fluid pressure in the circuit in the region of the connection point.
If there is an increase in fluid pressure in the circuit in the region of the connection point, the fluid pressure in the fluid chamber of the fluidic drive will also increase. If, for example, the fluid pressure increases to such an extent that a pressure value/triggering pressure triggering a jolt of the actuator structure is reached, a jolt is triggered, by which the control element is switched, in particular moved from the first switching position to the second switching position. This in turn switches the heat pump circuit to the operating mode described above.
Such an increase in pressure in the circuit can occur if signs of icing arise in the circuit and/or in the heat exchanger used as an evaporator, such as, for example, the second heat exchanger. These cause clogging of the line cross-section, for example. Such narrowing of the line then results in an increase in the fluid pressure in the line.
With a further embodiment, the control connection of the fluidic drive with the circuit is fluidically connected in the region between the compressor and the fluid connections of the directional valve and/or, viewed in the direction of flow of the working fluid, is connected upstream of the compressor and/or is fluidically connected in the region of an inlet into the compressor. As a result, the fluid pressure is drawn specifically from the region of the circuit most prone to icing, in order to control the fluidic drive.
According to a further aspect, a use of the directional valve described above, for example the 4/2-way valve described above, in a heat pump is proposed. For example, the heat pump is used to heat or cool spaces. For example, the heat pump is the heat pump described above.
Further details and features are shown in the following description of several exemplary embodiments based on the drawing. The following are shown
Preferably, the directional valve 1 has a control element, such as, for example, a control slide 6. In the following, the control slide 6 is used by way of example, wherein the explanations can generally be generalized to the control element. The control slide 6 is preferably assigned to the base body 2. Preferably, the control slide 6 is movable, in particular displaceable, relative to the base body 2. Preferably, the control slide 6 is mounted on the base body 2 so that it can be moved, in particular displaced. For example, the control slide 6 is movably, in particular displaceably, received in an interior chamber 5 of the base body 2.
Preferably, the control slide 6 is guided via at least one, preferably two, guide sections 9, 10 spaced apart from one another on a wall of the base body 2 bounding the interior chamber 5, for example in order to be moved in a guided manner in the direction of its displacement movement. The guide sections 9, 10 are preferably arranged in the region of the longitudinal ends 7, 8 of the control slide 6. Preferably, the control slide 6 has a curvature 11.1 over one length section and a preferably flat closing surface 11.2 over an adjacent and/or neighboring length section.
Preferably, the control slide 6 is designed to be moved/displaced/switched between at least two switching positions, in particular two or exclusively two switching positions. For example, one of the switching positions is a first switching position A and another of the switching positions is a second switching position B. The first switching position A is shown in
For example, in the first switching position A, a passage of flow between the fluid connections 3, 4 is enabled, for example by the curvature 11.1 bridging the free ends of the fluid connections 3, 4. In this case, a fluid flow 200 is permitted through the directional valve 1 via the fluid connections 3, 4. For example, in the second switching position B, the passage of flow between the fluid connections 3, 4 is blocked, for example by the closing surface 11.2 closing at least one of the two fluid connections 3, 4, in particular the fluid connection 3 that can be used as an inlet, at its free end. In this case, the fluid flow 200 is interrupted by the directional valve 1.
Preferably, the directional valve 1 also has an actuator structure 12, in order to switch the control slide 6. Preferably, the actuator structure 12 is arranged in the interior chamber 5 of the base body 2 or in a cavity of the base body 2 adjacent to the interior chamber 5. Preferably, the actuator structure 12 is arranged in the base body 2 in such a manner that the actuator structure 12 can have a switching effect on the control slide 6. Preferably, the actuator structure 12 has an unstable movement behavior. Preferably, the actuator structure 12 is an actuator structure with a jolt property.
For example, the actuator structure 12 is formed to transition from a first mechanically stable state, in particular a first mechanically stable position and/or shape, to a second state, in particular a second position and/or shape, preferably abruptly, in particular to deform abruptly, i.e. to jolt. By way of example, the first mechanically stable state is shown in
For example, the actuator structure 12 has a base section 13 and a movement section 14. For example, the movement section 14 can be moved relative to the base section 13 from an initial position to an extended position. For example, the movement section 14 is located in the initial position if the actuator structure 12 is in the first mechanically stable state (
The actuator structure 12 can have or consist of a rubber-elastic material. For example, the actuator structure 12 is formed to be rotationally symmetrical about an axis of rotation. For example, the actuator structure 12 has a curvature that, for example, is directed inwards in the first mechanically stable state (
Preferably, the actuator structure 12 is designed to move/displace/switch the control slide 6 by way of utilizing its jolt property. For example, the actuator structure 12 is aligned in such a manner that the movement section 14 moves relative to the base section 13 in the direction of displacement of the control slide 6, preferably abruptly. For example, the base section 13 is anchored/fastened to the base body 2. Preferably, the actuator structure 12 is dimensioned in such a manner that, upon a jolt, the movement section 14 acts on the actuator structure 12 from its initial position in the direction of its extended position with such a large force that a jolt is triggered.
An actuating device 15 is provided in order to actuate the actuator structure 12. The actuating device 15 is designed in order to actuate the actuator structure 12 by triggering a jolt. As indicated in
Preferably, the coil 17 is arranged inside the base body 2. For example, the coil 17 is arranged adjacent to and/or in the immediate vicinity of the actuator structure 12. For example, the coil 17 is arranged inside the cavity or inside the interior chamber 5 of the base body 2. In principle, the coil 17 can also be arranged outside the base body 2, in particular outside the cavity or the interior chamber 5. Due to the coil 17, it is possible to generate a magnetic field. An iron element (not shown in
Preferably, a magnetic field-generating element (not shown in
For example, the element generating the magnetic field is a component with a permanent magnetic effect, such as, for example, a permanent magnet. Preferably, the element generating the magnetic field/the device generating the magnetic field is connected to the actuator structure 12 or fastened thereto or formed thereon or molded thereon. For example, it is a permanently magnetic coating or at least one material section of the actuator structure 12 consists of a permanently magnetic material or has such a material.
Preferably, the coil 17 is signal-connected and/or electrically connected to an electrical control device (not shown in
As can be seen in
Due to the spring element 18, the control slide 6 is moved against the force of the spring element 18 if the control slide 6 is displaced from the first switching position A to the second switching position B. Preferably, the spring element 18 is dimensioned in such a manner that the control slide 6 is automatically moved back by its restoring force; i.e., it is moved back into the switching position A.
Due to the structure described above, the directional valve 1 can have the following mode of operation: In an initial state, the control slide 6 is located in the first switching position A and the actuator structure 12 is located in the first mechanically stable position/shape, in which the movement section 14 is located in the initial position (
If the actuator structure 12 is now actuated by the actuating device 15, for example by the coil 17 being controlled/energized by the control device and a magnetic field being built up, an actuating force acting on the actuator structure 12 is generated. The actuating force is so great that a jolt of the actuator structure 12 is triggered. Due to such jolt, the actuator structure 12 transitions abruptly from the first mechanically stable position/shape to the second position/shape, such that the movement section 14 simultaneously moves from the initial position in the direction of the extended position. In the course of such change in position/change in shape of the actuator structure 12, a compressive force is exerted on the control slide 6, by the movement section 14, due to which the control slide 6 is moved from the first switching position A to the second switching position B.
In the second switching position B, the actuator structure 12 is located in the second position/shape and the movement section 14 is moved in the direction of its extended position or is located in its extended position (
In order to return the directional valve 1 to the initial state, a distinction can be made between a mode of operation for the case in which the actuator structure 12 has a bistable movement behavior and a mode of operation for the case in which the actuator structure 12 has a monostable movement behavior. If the actuator structure 12 has a monostable movement behavior, i.e. it automatically moves back into the first mechanically stable position/shape, the energization of the coil 17 is maintained, for example. The energization is dimensioned in such a manner that the resulting force is so great that the control slide 6 remains in the second switching position B.
To switch the control slide 6 back into the first switching position A, it is then only necessary to reduce or terminate the energization of the coil 17 and the actuator structure 12 moves automatically, for example abruptly, back into the first mechanically stable position/shape. Due to the restoring force of the spring element 18, the control slide 6 moves back into the first switching position A.
If the actuator structure 12 has a bistable movement behavior, i.e. the second position/shape is also a mechanically stable position/shape and thus the actuator structure 12 remains in the second position/shape of its own accord, the energization of the coil 17 is carried out in the reverse manner, for example. This results in a reversal of the polarity of the magnetic field generated by the coil 17 and a reverse force effect. Due to such reverse force effect, an actuating force acts in the opposite direction and this triggers a jolt of the actuator structure 12 from the second position/shape back into the first mechanically stable position/shape. The restoring force of the spring element 18 also causes the control slide 6 to move back into the first switching position A.
In the case of the bistable movement behavior of the actuator structure 12, only an energization of the coil 17 is required to operate the directional valve 1, in order to trigger a jolt of the actuator structure 12. An energization of the actuator structure 12 between two switching operations is not necessary.
Preferably, the further actuator structure 12′ is arranged in the interior chamber 5 of the base body 2 or in a cavity of the base body 2 adjacent to the interior chamber 5. Preferably, the further actuator structure 12′ is arranged in the base body 2 in such a manner that the further actuator structure 12′ can have a switching effect on the control slide 6. Preferably, the further actuator structure 12′ is arranged opposite the actuator structure 12 and the control slide 6 is located between them. Preferably, the control slide 6 can be displaced back and forth in the direction of displacement by the respective actuator structure 12/12′ and in this manner can be switched between the first switching position A and the second switching position B.
Preferably, the further actuator structure 12′ has an unstable movement behavior. Preferably, the further actuator structure 12′ is an actuator structure with a jolt property. In this respect, the further actuator structure 12′ can also be formed to transition from a first mechanically stable state, in particular a first mechanically stable position and/or shape, to a second state, in particular a second position and/or shape, preferably abruptly, in particular to deform abruptly, i.e. to jolt. By way of example, the first mechanically stable state of the other actuator structure 12′ is shown in
Preferably, the further actuator structure 12′ is arranged relative to the actuator structure 12 in such a manner that the further actuator structure 12′ is located in an initial state, in particular in the first mechanically stable state, if the control slide 6 is located in the second switching position B; i.e., the actuator structure 12 has already executed a jolt. Preferably, the control slide 6 is moved back/switched back from the second switching position B to the first switching position A by triggering a jolt in the further actuator structure 12′.
For example, the further actuator structure 12′ corresponds to the actuator structure 12. In particular, the actuator structure 12 and the further actuator structure 12′ are identical parts. For example, the further actuator structure 12′ has a base section 13′ and a movement section 14′. For example, the movement section 14′ can be moved relative to the base section 13′ from an initial position to an extended position. For example, the movement section 14′ is located in the initial position if the further actuator structure 12′ is located in the first mechanically stable state (
The actuating device 15′ associated with the further actuator structure 12′ can have an electromagnetic drive 16′, which is shown by way of example in
With this embodiment, the actuator structure 12 and the further actuator structure 12′ preferably in each case have a bistable movement behavior, such that the respective second state present after a jolt is also a mechanically stable state, in particular a mechanically stable position and/or shape is present. Preferably, in the respective switching position A/B of the control slide 6, in each case one of the two actuator structures 12, 12′ is brought into to the second state and the other of the two actuator structures 12, 12′ is located in the initial state/the first state.
Preferably, with this embodiment, the actuating device 15 for the actuator structure 12 and the actuating device 15′ for the further actuator structure 12′ are in each case designed to generate an actuating force/triggering force triggering a jolt in the associated actuator structure 12/12′, in particular to exert it on the associated actuator structure 12/12′, preferably in order to transfer the respective associated actuator structure 12/12′ from the first state to the second state. Preferably, in each case a jolt of one of the actuator structures 12, 12′ triggered by the associated actuating device 15/15′ simultaneously causes a jolt in the other of the two actuator structures 12, 12′, which is thereby moved back from the second state to the first state/initial state.
Preferably, the heat pump 100 comprises a compressor 110, a throttling device 120, a first heat exchanger 130 and a second heat exchanger 140, which are arranged/integrated into a circuit 150, in particular a line circuit. As can be seen from
In this interconnection arrangement, the first heat exchanger 130 is used as a condenser and the second heat exchanger 140 is used as an evaporator. In this respect, the first heat exchanger 130 is used, for example, to provide useful heat and is arranged, for example, in an indoor unit. For example, the indoor unit is designed to be arranged/installed inside a building to be heated, for example as a part of a central heating system. Accordingly, the second heat exchanger 140 can be arranged in an outdoor unit of the heat pump 110, in order to emit the waste heat to the environment. For example, the outdoor unit is designed to be arranged/installed outside the building to be heated, in order to emit the waste heat to the outside environment.
The directional valve 1.1 is based, for example, on the design of the directional valve 1 in
With the directional valve 1.1, for example, the base body 20 has a fluid chamber 26, which is formed in the interior chamber 5, for example. Preferably, the fluid chamber 26 is bounded by the control slide 6 in the direction of displacement of the control slide 6. Preferably, the control slide 6 closes the fluid chamber 26 in such direction in a fluid-tight manner, for example by way of utilizing a sealing element 25. Preferably, the actuator structure 12 and/or the spring element 18 is received in a receiving region 5.1 of the interior chamber 5, wherein preferably the receiving region 5.1 is located outside the fluid chamber 26.
Preferably, the fluid connections 21, 22, 23, 24 are flow-connected to the fluid chamber 26. For example, one of the fluid connections 21, 22, 23, 24 is arranged on a side of the base body 20 extending in the direction of displacement of the control slide 6, and the other fluid connections 21, 22, 24 are arranged on an opposite side of the base body 20. The control slide 6 preferably divides the fluid chamber 26 into two sub-chambers 26.1, 26.2, in particular in a fluid-tight manner. For example, depending on the switching position of the control slide 6, the fluid connections 21, 22, 23, 24 are in each case flow-connected to one another in pairs in each case via the two sub-chambers 26.1, 26.2.
With the directional valve 1.1, the control slide 6 is designed to be moved/switched between a first switching position A′ and a second switching position B′. In the first switching position A′, the first fluid connection 21 and the second fluid connection 22 are flow-connected and, furthermore, the third fluid connection 23 and the fourth fluid connection 24 are flow-connected. In the second switching position B′, the first fluid connection 21 and the third fluid connection 23 are flow-connected and, furthermore, the second fluid connection 22 and the fourth fluid connection 24 are flow-connected.
The directional valve 1.1′ in
The directional valve 1.1″ of
Preferably, the fluidic actuator 19 has a fluid chamber 19.1, for example for receiving a control fluid. Preferably, the fluid chamber 19.1 is provided, in particular arranged, in the base body 20 of the directional valve 1.1″. Preferably, the fluid chamber 19.1 is bounded in one direction by the actuator structure 12. For example, the base section 13 of the actuator structure 12 is connected to at least one wall of the fluid chamber 19.1 in a fluid-tight manner, in particular is fastened thereto in a fluid-tight manner.
Preferably, the fluid chamber 19.1 is flow-connected to a control connection 19.2. The control connection 19.2 is preferably arranged on the base body 20. Preferably, the control connection 19.2 is fluidically connected to the circuit 150 via a control line 160. As a result, the fluid pressure present in the fluid chamber 19.1 of the fluidic actuator 19 is that which is present in the circuit 150 in the region of the connection point of the control line 160. For example, the control connection 19.2 with the circuit 150 is fluidically connected in the region between the compressor 110 and the fourth fluid connection 24 and/or is fluidically connected upstream of the compressor 110 as seen in the direction of flow (arrow 300) of the working medium of the heat pump 100″ and/or in the region of an inlet into the compressor 110. In
If there is an increase in the fluid pressure in the circuit 150 in the region of the connection point of the control line 160, the fluid pressure in the fluid chamber 19.1 of the fluidic actuator 19 also increases. If the fluid pressure increases to such an extent that a pressure value/triggering pressure triggering a jolt of the actuator structure 12 is reached, a jolt is triggered, by which the control slide 6 is switched, in particular moved from the present first switching position A′ to the second switching position B′, which is shown in
With the directional valve 1.1″, the actuator structure 12 preferably has a monostable movement behavior. If the directional valve 1.1″ is brought into the switching position B′ after the actuator structure 12 has failed and the circuit 150 is reversed as a result, any signs of icing are reduced, for example, and the fluid pressure in the fluid chamber 19.1 decreases. As a result, in turn, the actuator structure 12 can revert back and automatically return to its original state. Due to the restoring force of the spring element 18, the control slide 6 is brought back into the switching position A′.
Instead of the spring element 18, the directional valve 1.1″ can also have a further actuator structure and an associated actuating device, as described, for example, in the directional valve 1.1′ of
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 2021 113 889.2 | May 2021 | DE | national |
This application is a national stage application, filed under 35 U.S.C. § 371, of International Patent Application PCT/DE2022/100373, filed on May 18, 2022, which claims the benefit of German Patent Application DE 10 2021 113 889.2, filed on May 28, 2021.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/DE2022/100373 | 5/18/2022 | WO |
