Patent Description:
Conventionally, a heat exchanger system including a valve is known. Such a heat exchanger system is disclosed in International Publication No. <CIT>, for example.

International Publication No. <CIT> discloses a heat exchanger including a heat exchanger body and a bypass valve configured to allow a fluid to be cooled to bypass around a portion of a flow path of the heat exchanger body and flow out of the heat exchanger. The flow path of the heat exchanger body includes a forward path and a return path, and when the bypass valve is closed, the fluid to be cooled that has flowed into the forward path passes through the forward path, reaches the return path, and flows out of an end of the return path. When the bypass valve is opened, the fluid to be cooled that has flowed into the forward path passes through the bypass valve in the course of the forward path, reaches the return path, and flows out of the end of the return path. The bypass valve includes a valve body urged toward a valve seat by a compression coil spring, and is opened by a differential pressure such that a through-hole of the bypass valve communicates.

The bypass function in International Publication No. <CIT> is used when passing of the fluid to be cooled through a portion of the flow path of the heat exchanger is omitted when the temperature of the fluid to be cooled is too low in a low-temperature environment, for example, and the temperature of the fluid to be cooled is quickly raised.

Patent Document <NUM>: International Publication No. <CIT>.

However, in International Publication No. <CIT>, the through-hole of the bypass valve only communicates when the valve is opened, and thus not only does the fluid to be cooled flow into the bypass valve when the valve is opened, but also a portion of the fluid to be cooled flows through the flow path along the same path as when the valve is closed without passing through the bypass valve. Therefore, in International Publication No. <CIT>, even when the bypass valve is opened, a portion of the fluid to be cooled is cooled in the same manner as when the valve is closed, and thus it takes time to raise the temperature of the fluid to be cooled.

In International Publication No. <CIT>, the fluid is cooled by the heat exchanger, but even when the bypass valve is provided in order to significantly reduce or prevent an excessive increase in the temperature of the fluid in a case in which the fluid is heated by the heat exchanger, for example, it becomes difficult to significantly reduce or prevent an increase in the temperature of the fluid even if the bypass valve is opened for the same reason. Therefore, it is desired to construct a heat exchanger system that allows all of a fluid to reliably bypass when a valve is opened (when the valve is switched to a bypassing state).

Further known designs are disclosed in <CIT> and in <CIT>.

The present invention has been proposed in order to solve the aforementioned problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide a heat exchanger system including a valve configured to allow all of a fluid to reliably bypass around a heat exchanger.

In order to attain the aforementioned object, a heat exchanger system according to the present invention includes a heat exchanger configured to allow a fluid to flow therethrough and perform heat exchange, and a valve including an external inlet and an external outlet, both of which are connected to an external fluid circuit configured to allow the fluid to flow therethrough, a supply port configured to allow the fluid to be supplied to the heat exchanger, and a return port configured to receive the fluid that has passed through the heat exchanger. The valve is configured to be switchable between a first state in which the external inlet and the supply port are connected to each other, and the external outlet and the return port are connected to each other and a second state in which at least one of the supply port and the return port is shut off, and the external inlet and the external outlet are connected to each other.

In the heat exchanger system according to the present invention, with the above configuration, in the first state, the fluid from the external fluid circuit is supplied from the external inlet of the valve to the heat exchanger via the supply port, and the fluid that has passed through the heat exchanger is sent from the return port of the valve to the external fluid circuit via the external outlet. Consequently, the heat exchanger is connected to the external fluid circuit to perform heat exchange for the fluid. In the second state, at least one of the supply port and the return port is shut off, and thus the fluid that has flowed in via the external inlet of the valve cannot flow into (or flow out of) the heat exchanger and is sent to the external fluid circuit via the external outlet. Accordingly, the valve is switched to the second state such that the fluid can be sent from the valve to the external fluid circuit without flowing into the heat exchanger. Therefore, all of the fluid is allowed to reliably bypass around the heat exchanger by the valve.

In the heat exchanger system according to the present invention, the valve is preferably configured to switch between the first state and the second state according to a temperature of the fluid that flows through the valve. Accordingly, when the temperature of the fluid is too low in the heat exchanger system for cooling, or when the temperature of the fluid is too high in the heat exchanger system for heating, the valve is switched to the second state according to the temperature of the fluid such that the fluid can bypass around the heat exchanger, and unnecessary cooling or heating of the fluid by the heat exchanger can be prevented. Consequently, when the temperature of the fluid is out of a desired temperature range, the temperature of the fluid can be quickly changed to within the desired temperature range.

In the heat exchanger system according to the present invention, the valve preferably includes one valve body configured to move to switch between the first state and the second state. Accordingly, unlike a configuration in which two or more valve bodies operate in conjunction with each other for flow path switching in the valve, for example, it is possible to switch between the first state and the second state with a simple configuration including only one valve body. Note that particularly in a heat exchanger system mounted on an aircraft, for example, it is required to meet weight restrictions and size restrictions, and thus the above configuration that enables simplification of the configuration of the heat exchanger system is particularly effective.

In this case, the valve preferably includes a first passage configured to connect the external inlet to the supply port, a second passage configured to connect the external outlet to the return port, and a connection passage configured to connect the first passage to the second passage to allow the external inlet and the external outlet to communicate with each other, and the valve body is preferably configured to switch between the first state and the second state by selectively moving to a position at which the connection passage is shut off and a position at which a supply port side of the first passage with respect to the connection passage or a return port side of the second passage with respect to the connection passage is shut off. Accordingly, when the valve body shuts off the first passage, the fluid that has flowed in via the external inlet flows to the external outlet through the connection passage without flowing to the heat exchanger via the supply port. When the valve body shuts off the second passage, the fluid from the heat exchanger cannot flow via the return port, and thus the fluid that has flowed in via the external inlet cannot flow into the supply port but flows to the external outlet through the connection passage. Therefore, either the first passage or the second passage is shut off such that the valve is switched to the second state in which the fluid bypasses around the heat exchanger. Thus, a configuration in which one valve body can perform switching between the first state and the second state can be achieved simply by configuring the valve body to selectively shut off the first passage or the second passage and the connection passage. Note that in this specification, the term "shut off" refers to substantially preventing a fluid from passing. "Substantially preventing a fluid from passing" indicates that a fluid flow at a minute flow rate that is practically negligible, such as an unavoidable leak, is allowed, and does not include partially shutting off a passage to throttle the fluid flow.

In the aforementioned configuration in which the valve includes one valve body, the valve is preferably a poppet valve including the valve body configured to linearly move between a first valve seat for switching to the first state and a second valve seat for switching to the second state, and the valve body is preferably configured to contact the first valve seat on a first surface in a moving direction of the valve body and contact the second valve seat on a second surface in the moving direction of the valve body. Accordingly, it is possible to switch between the first state and the second state, using a poppet valve that can reduce the stroke of the valve body with a simple structure. In addition, whereas in a poppet valve, one valve body (poppet) generally only opens and closes one passage, one valve body (poppet) contacts the valve seats on the opposite surfaces of the valve body, respectively, and thus one valve body (poppet) can selectively perform passage switching (opening and closing of a plurality of passages) between the first state and the second state. Consequently, the heat exchanger system including the valve can be reduced in size and weight.

In the aforementioned configuration in which the valve includes one valve body, the valve preferably includes a temperature-sensitive drive configured to move the valve body according to a temperature of the fluid, and the temperature-sensitive drive is preferably configured to sense the temperature of the fluid on both a first surface side and a second surface side of the valve body. Accordingly, as compared with a configuration in which temperature sensors are provided at a plurality of locations such as the external inlet and the external outlet in the valve, and the valve body is moved by an electric actuator or the like, for example, due to the common temperature-sensitive drive, the configuration that switches the valve to the first state or the second state according to the temperature of the fluid can be simplified.

In this case, the valve body preferably has a plate shape including the first surface and the second surface, and the temperature-sensitive drive is preferably configured to penetrate the valve body to be exposed on the first surface and the second surface. Accordingly, the temperature-sensitive drive configured to sense the temperature on both the first surface side and the second surface side can be achieved with a simple configuration. In addition, the thickness of the plate-shaped valve body through which the temperature-sensitive drive penetrates can be reduced to the minimum necessary, and thus the size of the valve including the temperature-sensitive drive and the valve body can be minimized.

In the aforementioned configuration in which the valve includes the temperature-sensitive drive, the valve body preferably includes a hollow case including the first surface and the second surface, and the temperature-sensitive drive is preferably arranged inside the case. Accordingly, the temperature-sensitive drive can sense the temperature of the fluid that contacts the surface of the case via the case and move the valve body (case). Thus, the entire case serves as a temperature sensor, and the heat receiving area can be increased. Therefore, the sensitivity of the temperature-sensitive drive can be easily ensured.

In the aforementioned configuration in which the valve includes the temperature-sensitive drive, the temperature-sensitive drive is preferably configured to move the valve body to switch the valve to the first state when the fluid has a temperature equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, and to move the valve body to switch the valve to the second state when the fluid has a temperature lower than the predetermined temperature. Accordingly, the temperature-sensitive drive switches the valve to the second state in a low-temperature environment in which the temperature of the fluid is lower than the predetermined temperature, and thus the fluid bypasses around the heat exchanger to be sent to the external fluid circuit such that the temperature of the fluid can be quickly raised. When the temperature of the fluid rises above the predetermined temperature, the temperature-sensitive drive switches the valve to the first state, and thus the heat exchanger can perform heat exchange for the fluid.

According to the present invention, as described above, it is possible to provide the heat exchanger system including the valve configured to allow all of the fluid to reliably bypass around the heat exchanger.

Embodiments of the present invention are hereinafter described on the basis of the drawings.

The configuration of a heat exchanger system <NUM> according to a first embodiment is described with reference to <FIG>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the heat exchanger system <NUM> includes a heat exchanger <NUM> and a valve <NUM>. The heat exchanger system <NUM> according to the first embodiment is a heat exchanger system for an aircraft engine, and in particular, is an air-cooled heat exchanger (cooler) system mounted in the aircraft engine and configured to perform heat exchange between an airflow in the aircraft engine and a fluid FD (see <FIG>). The aircraft engine is a type of engine, such as a gas turbine engine, which generates a propulsive force, utilizing air taken in a cylindrical casing from the outside, and a high-speed airflow is generated in the casing.

The fluid FD is a liquid. In the first embodiment, the fluid FD is a lubricating oil of an aircraft engine <NUM> (see <FIG>), and is an engine lubricating oil or a lubricating oil of a generator driven by the engine, for example.

The heat exchanger <NUM> is a device that allows the fluid FD to flow therethrough so as to perform heat exchange. In configuration examples of <FIG> and <FIG>, the heat exchanger <NUM> is provided along a curved surface S (see <FIG>) in the aircraft engine <NUM>, and is configured to cool the fluid FD, which flows therethrough, by heat exchange with an airflow that flows through the aircraft engine <NUM>. That is, the heat exchanger <NUM> is configured as a surface cooler. The surface cooler is a type of heat exchanger that cools the fluid FD that flows through a plate-shaped core <NUM> with an airflow that flows along radiating fins <NUM> provided on a surface of the core <NUM>. The heat exchanger <NUM> has a curved plate shape as a whole. The curved surface S in the aircraft engine is the inner peripheral surface of a fan casing of the engine, for example, but the heat exchanger <NUM> may be installed on any portion in the engine as long as the portion is exposed to the airflow.

The heat exchanger <NUM> is typically provided along the substantially cylindrical curved surface S with a length of about <NUM>/n round (n is a natural number) in a circumferential direction (C direction). For example, the heat exchanger <NUM> has a length of about <NUM>/<NUM> round, but the heat exchanger <NUM> may have an annular shape that extends over substantially the entire circumference of the curved surface S in the aircraft engine. The airflow flows along an A direction (see <FIG>), which is a substantially axial direction (the rotational axis direction of a turbine) in the aircraft engine. The curved surface S in the aircraft engine is not necessarily a perfect cylindrical curved surface, and thus the radius of curvature of the heat exchanger <NUM> in that case varies depending on a position in the axial direction (A direction).

The valve <NUM> is a switching valve that has a plurality of openings serving as an inlet and an outlet of the fluid FD and switches a flow path for the fluid FD. The valve <NUM> is configured to connect the heat exchanger <NUM> to an external fluid circuit <NUM> (see <FIG>) through which the fluid FD flows. <FIG> and <FIG> show an example in which the valve <NUM> is provided in a header <NUM> of the heat exchanger <NUM>. The valve <NUM> may be provided separately from the heat exchanger <NUM> and connected by piping or the like. As described below, the valve <NUM> has a function of switching between a state (first state) in which the fluid FD passes through the heat exchanger <NUM> when circulating through the valve <NUM> and the external fluid circuit <NUM> and a state (second state) in which the fluid FD circulates through the valve <NUM> and the external fluid circuit <NUM> without passing through the heat exchanger <NUM> (by bypassing around the heat exchanger <NUM>). That is, the valve <NUM> is a valve that switches a path for the fluid FD to a path along which the fluid FD passes through the heat exchanger <NUM> or a path along which the fluid FD bypasses around the heat exchanger <NUM>.

In the examples of <FIG> and <FIG>, the heat exchanger system <NUM> includes one heat exchanger <NUM> and one valve <NUM>. The heat exchanger <NUM> includes the core <NUM> that allows the fluid FD to flow therethrough, and a plurality of plate-shaped heat radiating fins <NUM> provided on surfaces (11a and 11b) of the core <NUM>.

The core <NUM> has a curved shape along the curved surface S in the aircraft engine. The core <NUM> has a hollow plate shape including a first surface 11a that faces the curved surface S and a second surface 11b opposite to the first surface 11a. A flow path <NUM> (see <FIG>) is formed inside the core <NUM>. The core <NUM> is configured by stacking a first member <NUM> (see <FIG>) on the first surface 11a side and a second member <NUM> (see <FIG>) on the second surface 11b side in the plate thickness direction thereof. On the inner surface of the second member <NUM>, the flow path <NUM> including a recess is formed, and corrugated fins <NUM> (see <FIG>) are arranged in the flow path <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the flow path <NUM> has a turned-back shape including a forward path 15a and a return path 15b. The forward path 15a and the return path 15b are partitioned by a peripheral wall 14a and a partition 14b formed on the second member <NUM>. The forward path 15a extends from a first end of the core <NUM> to a second end in a longitudinal direction (C direction), and the return path 15b extends from the second end of the core <NUM> to the first end in the longitudinal direction. The forward path 15a and the return path 15b communicate with each other on the second end side of the core <NUM>. The header <NUM> including the valve <NUM> is provided at the first end of the core <NUM> in the longitudinal direction. The forward path 15a and the return path 15b are connected to the valve <NUM> at the header <NUM>.

The corrugated fins <NUM> are plate-shaped fins having a wave shape in a direction (flow path width direction, A direction) orthogonal to a direction in which the flow path <NUM> (the forward path 15a and the return path 15b) extends. The corrugated fins <NUM> are joined to the first member <NUM> and the second member <NUM> on opposite sides in the thickness direction thereof, and partition the flow path <NUM> into a plurality of fine flow paths. Note that the corrugated fins <NUM> are provided over the entire flow path <NUM>, but in <FIG>, only a portion thereof is shown for convenience of illustration.

As shown in <FIG>, the plurality of radiating fins <NUM> are provided on each of the first surface 11a and the second surface 11b. Each radiating fin <NUM> has a plate shape. Each radiating fin <NUM> is provided upright in a direction substantially perpendicular to each surface (11a and 11b). The plurality of radiating fins <NUM> are provided in parallel to each other at substantially equal intervals (substantially equal pitches). The plurality of radiating fins <NUM> extend along the short-side direction (A direction) of the core <NUM>. That is, the plurality of radiating fins <NUM> extend along the axial direction (A direction) in the aircraft engine.

The core <NUM> is made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, stainless steel, titanium, copper, or Inconel (registered trademark), for example. Materials for the main structures of the radiating fins <NUM>, the valve <NUM> and the header <NUM> are also the same as that of the core <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the valve <NUM> fluidly connects the external fluid circuit <NUM> to the heat exchanger <NUM>. The valve <NUM> includes four openings that serve as flow inlets or flow outlets of the fluid FD. Specifically, the valve <NUM> includes an external inlet 2a and an external outlet 2b connected to the external fluid circuit <NUM> through which the fluid FD flows, a supply port 2c that allows the fluid FD to be supplied to the heat exchanger <NUM>, and a return port 2d that receives the fluid FD that has passed through the heat exchanger <NUM>.

The external inlet 2a is connected to a piping path for the fluid FD that flows from the external fluid circuit <NUM> to the heat exchanger system <NUM>. The external outlet 2b is connected to a piping path for the fluid FD that flows from the heat exchanger system <NUM> to the external fluid circuit <NUM>.

The external fluid circuit <NUM> is a fluid circuit provided in an aircraft to circulate the fluid FD (lubricating oil). As shown in <FIG>, the external fluid circuit <NUM> includes the aircraft engine <NUM> (a lubricating oil flow path in the aircraft engine), a reservoir tank <NUM>, and a pump <NUM> as main components. The external fluid circuit <NUM> includes the aircraft engine <NUM> as a heat generator. The fluid FD absorbs heat generated in the aircraft engine <NUM> in the process of lubricating the inside of the aircraft engine <NUM> and is heated. The fluid FD is stored in the reservoir tank <NUM>. The pump <NUM> circulates the fluid FD in the reservoir tank <NUM> between the external fluid circuit <NUM> and the heat exchanger system <NUM>. Thus, the heat exchanger <NUM> communicates with the external fluid circuit <NUM> including the aircraft engine <NUM> via the valve <NUM>.

The supply port 2c and the return port 2d are connected to the flow path <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the heat exchanger <NUM> at the header <NUM> (see <FIG>). The supply port 2c and the return port 2d are connected to a first end and a second end of the same flow path <NUM>, respectively.

In the first embodiment, the valve <NUM> is configured to be switchable between the first state P1 (see <FIG>) in which the external inlet 2a and the supply port 2c are connected to each other, and the external outlet 2b and the return port 2d are connected to each other and the second state P2 (see <FIG>) in which the return port 2d is shut off, and the external inlet 2a and the external outlet 2b are connected to each other. The valve <NUM> is configured to switch between the first state P1 and the second state P2 according to the temperature of the fluid FD that flows through the valve <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in the first state P1, the valve <NUM> allows the external fluid circuit <NUM> and the heat exchanger <NUM> to communicate with each other. The valve <NUM> receives the high-temperature fluid FD from the external fluid circuit <NUM> via the external inlet 2a and sends the same to the supply port 2c by the pressure of the pump <NUM> by connecting the external inlet 2a to the supply port 2c. The fluid FD flows through the flow path <NUM> of the heat exchanger <NUM> via the supply port 2c into the return port 2d of the valve <NUM>.

The valve <NUM> receives the fluid FD from the heat exchanger <NUM> via the return port 2d and sends the same to the external outlet 2b by the pressure of the pump <NUM> by connecting the external outlet 2b to the return port 2d. The fluid FD cooled in the process of passing through the heat exchanger <NUM> flows into the aircraft engine <NUM> through the piping path in the external fluid circuit <NUM>.

Thus, in the first state P1, a path through which the fluid FD circulates in the order of the reservoir tank <NUM>, the pump <NUM>, the valve <NUM>, the heat exchanger <NUM>, the valve <NUM>, the aircraft engine <NUM>, and the reservoir tank <NUM> is formed. The first state P1 is a switching state to which the valve <NUM> is switched during normal operation in which the fluid FD warmed by the aircraft engine <NUM> is cooled in the heat exchanger <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in the second state P2, the valve <NUM> bypasses the heat exchanger <NUM> from the external fluid circuit <NUM>. The valve <NUM> receives the fluid FD from the external fluid circuit <NUM> via the external inlet 2a and sends the same to the external outlet 2b by the pressure of the pump <NUM> by connecting the external inlet 2a to the external outlet 2b. At this time, the return port 2d is shut off, and thus all of the fluid FD in the valve <NUM> flows out of the external outlet 2b without flowing to the heat exchanger <NUM> side. The fluid FD sent from the valve <NUM> without passing through the heat exchanger <NUM> flows into the aircraft engine <NUM> through the piping path in the external fluid circuit <NUM>.

Thus, in the second state P2, a path through which the fluid FD circulates in the order of the reservoir tank <NUM>, the pump <NUM>, the valve <NUM>, the aircraft engine <NUM>, and the reservoir tank <NUM> is formed. In the second state P2, the fluid FD does not pass through the heat exchanger <NUM>, and thus the heat of the fluid FD warmed by the aircraft engine <NUM> is not discharged from the heat exchanger <NUM> to the outside. Therefore, the second state P2 is a switching state to which the valve <NUM> is switched during low-temperature operation for rapidly raising the temperature of the low-temperature fluid FD in a low-temperature environment, for example, by allowing the fluid FD to bypass around the heat exchanger <NUM>.

A specific structural example of the valve <NUM> is now described in detail with reference to <FIG>. In <FIG>, in the C direction, the core <NUM> side with respect to the valve <NUM> is defined as a C1 direction, and a direction opposite to the C1 direction is defined as a C2 direction. The plate thickness direction of the core <NUM> (header <NUM>) substantially orthogonal to the C direction is defined as a Z direction.

The valve <NUM> includes a main body <NUM> including four openings including the external inlet 2a, the external outlet 2b, the supply port 2c, and the return port 2d. In an example of <FIG>, the external inlet 2a and the external outlet 2b are open at a first end (an end in the C2 direction) of the main body <NUM> in the C direction, and the supply port 2c and the return port 2d are open at a second end (an end in the C1 direction) of the main body <NUM> in the C direction. The external inlet 2a and the external outlet 2b are open to the outside of the header <NUM> (see <FIG>). The supply port 2c is fluidly connected to a first end of the forward path 15a (see <FIG>) in the core <NUM>. The return port 2d is fluidly connected to a first end of the return path 15b (see <FIG>) in the core <NUM>.

The main body <NUM> includes three passages <NUM> (22a to 22c) as internal spaces partitioned by a partition wall 21a.

The passage 22a extends in the C direction from the external inlet 2a to the supply port 2c. The passage 22b extends from the external outlet 2b to the vicinity of the center of the main body <NUM> in the C direction (C1 direction). The passage 22c extends in the C direction (C2 direction) from the return port 2d to the vicinity of the center of the main body <NUM>. The passages 22a, 22b, and 22c are arranged in this order in the Z direction. That is, the passage 22a and the passage 22b are adjacent to each other via the partition wall 21a, and the passage 22b and the passage 22c are adjacent to each other via the partition wall 21a.

The passage 22a and the passage 22b communicate with each other through a communication hole <NUM> in a central portion of the main body <NUM> in the C direction. The communication hole <NUM> penetrates the partition wall 21a between the passage 22a and the passage 22b in the Z direction.

The passage 22b and the passage 22c communicate with each other through a communication hole <NUM> in the central portion of the main body <NUM> in the C direction. The communication hole <NUM> penetrates the partition wall 21a between the passage 22b and the passage 22c in the Z direction.

The communication hole <NUM> and the communication hole <NUM> are formed at the same position in the C direction so as to penetrate the partition wall 21a in the Z direction, and are linearly arranged side by side so as to face each other in the Z direction.

With such a structure, the valve <NUM> includes a first passage <NUM> that connects the external inlet 2a to the supply port 2c, a second passage <NUM> that connects the external outlet 2b to the return port 2d, a connection passage <NUM> (see <FIG>) that connects the first passage <NUM> to the second passage <NUM> and allows the external inlet 2a and the external outlet 2b to communicate with each other.

That is, in examples of <FIG>, the first passage <NUM> includes the passage 22a. The second passage <NUM> includes the passage 22c, the communication hole <NUM>, and the passage 22b. The connection passage <NUM> includes the communication hole <NUM>.

The valve <NUM> includes one valve body <NUM> that moves to switch between the first state P1 and the second state P2. The valve body <NUM> is configured to switch between the first state P1 and the second state P2 by selectively moving to a position at which the connection passage <NUM> is shut off and a position at which the return port 2d side of the second passage <NUM> with respect to the connection passage <NUM> is shut off.

Specifically, the valve <NUM> is a poppet valve including the valve body <NUM> configured to linearly move between a first valve seat 23a for switching to the first state P1 and a second valve seat 24a for switching to the second state P2. The poppet valve is a type of valve in which the valve body moves in a direction perpendicular to the valve seat, and the valve body <NUM> that contacts the valve seat to open and close the flow path is called a poppet.

The valve body <NUM> is arranged inside the passage 22b. The valve body <NUM> is arranged in the central portion in the C direction in which the communication holes <NUM> and <NUM> are formed. That is, the valve body <NUM> faces each of the communication holes <NUM> and <NUM> in the Z direction. The valve body <NUM> has an outer shape that allows each of the communication holes <NUM> and <NUM> to be closed.

The valve body <NUM> is configured to be linearly movable in the Z direction. The valve body <NUM> is connected to the tip side of a rod <NUM> that extends in the Z direction. The rod <NUM> is a piston rod including a base fitted in a cylinder <NUM>, and is configured to be slidable inside the cylinder <NUM> in the Z direction. A spring member <NUM> that urges the rod <NUM> in the extension direction (Z2 direction) thereof is provided in the cylinder <NUM>.

The first valve seat 23a is provided at an opening edge of the communication hole <NUM> on the passage 22b side. The first valve seat 23a is an inclined surface that is inclined in a concave shape (mortar shape) toward the center of the communication hole <NUM>. Similarly, the second valve seat 24a is provided at an opening edge of the communication hole <NUM> on the passage 22b side. The second valve seat 24a is an inclined surface that is inclined in a concave shape (mortar shape) toward the center of the communication hole <NUM>.

The valve body <NUM> is configured to contact the first valve seat 23a on a first surface 25a in the moving direction (Z direction) thereof and contact the second valve seat 24a on a second surface 25b in the moving direction thereof. The valve body <NUM> has a flat plate shape, and has the first surface 25a on the communication hole <NUM> side and the second surface 25b on the communication hole <NUM> side. Inclined surfaces each having a shape corresponding to the opposing valve seat are formed on each of the peripheries of the first surface 25a and the second surface 25b.

Thus, the valve body <NUM> is configured to move to a first side (Z2 direction) in the Z direction such that the first surface 25a contacts the first valve seat 23a to shut off the communication hole <NUM>. Furthermore, the valve body <NUM> is configured to move to a second side (Z1 direction) in the Z direction such that the second surface 25b contacts the second valve seat 24a to shut off the communication hole <NUM>.

The valve <NUM> includes a temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> that moves the valve body <NUM> according to the temperature of the fluid FD. The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is a temperature-sensitive actuator that generates a driving force according to temperature. Although not shown in detail, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> includes a case that houses wax that expands and contracts according to temperature, and a piston rod that advances from and retracts to the case as the wax expands and contracts. That is, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is configured to expand and deform (the length increases) when the temperature exceeds a preset predetermined temperature, and contract and deform (the length decreases) when the temperature falls below the predetermined temperature.

The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> (see <FIG>) is provided as a portion of the rod <NUM> that supports the valve body <NUM>. Specifically, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is provided at the tip of the rod <NUM>, and the valve body <NUM> is provided at the tip of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM>. The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> expands and contracts in the Z direction. Thus, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> expands and deforms to move the valve body <NUM> toward the first valve seat 23a. The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> (see <FIG>) contracts and deforms to move the valve body <NUM> toward the second valve seat 24a.

The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is configured to move the valve body <NUM> such that the valve <NUM> is in the first state P1 when the fluid FD is at or above the predetermined temperature, and the valve <NUM> is in the second state P2 when the fluid FD is below the predetermined temperature.

That is, when the fluid FD having a temperature equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature flows through the valve <NUM>, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> expands and deforms due to the expansion of the wax, as shown in <FIG>. Consequently, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> brings the first surface 25a of the valve body <NUM> into contact with and presses the first valve seat 23a so as to close the communication hole <NUM>. A reaction force generated when the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> presses the valve body <NUM> against the first valve seat 23a is supported by the spring member <NUM> and the cylinder <NUM> via the rod <NUM>. Thus, when the fluid FD has a temperature equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature, the external inlet 2a and the supply port 2c communicate with each other, and the valve <NUM> is in the first state P1 in which the external outlet 2b and the return port 2d communicate with each other. That is, in the first state, the first passage <NUM> and the second passage <NUM> communicate with each other, and the connection passage <NUM> is shut off.

When the fluid FD having a temperature lower than the predetermined temperature flows through the valve <NUM>, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> contracts and deforms due to the contraction of the wax, as shown in <FIG>. Consequently, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> brings the second surface 25b of the valve body <NUM> into contact with and presses the second valve seat 24a so as to close the communication hole <NUM>. A reaction force generated when the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> presses the valve body <NUM> against the second valve seat 24a acts in a direction in which the rod <NUM> is pulled, and when the rod <NUM> reaches the maximum stroke position, the reaction force is supported by the cylinder <NUM>. Thus, when the fluid FD has a temperature lower than the predetermined temperature, the return port 2d is shut off, and the valve <NUM> is in the second state P2 in which the external inlet 2a and the external outlet 2b communicate with each other. That is, in the second state P2, the second passage <NUM> (the return port 2d side of the second passage <NUM> with respect to the connection passage <NUM>) is shut off, and the connection passage <NUM> communicates.

In the first state (see <FIG>), the spring member <NUM> functions as a relief mechanism that opens the communication hole <NUM> when an excessive pressure acts on the valve <NUM>. In the first state, when a pressure exceeding the urging force of the spring member <NUM> acts on the first passage <NUM>, the spring member <NUM> contracts, and the rod <NUM> separates from the first valve seat 23a together with the valve body <NUM>. Thus, the connection passage <NUM>, in which the external inlet 2a and the external outlet 2b communicate with each other via the communication hole <NUM>, communicates, and a portion of the fluid FD flows into the connection passage <NUM> such that an excessive pressure is released.

The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> can sense the temperature of the fluid FD on both the first surface 25a side and the second surface 25b side of the valve body <NUM>. In the first embodiment, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> penetrates the valve body <NUM> to be exposed on the first surface 25a and the second surface 25b. The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is fitted in a through-hole 25c that penetrates the valve body <NUM> in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the valve body <NUM>. The tip surface 29a of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is exposed from the through-hole 25c to the passage 22a side (communication hole <NUM>). The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> includes a portion that extends from the second surface 25b of the valve body <NUM> to the tip of the rod <NUM> so as to protrude to the second side (Z1 direction), and is exposed to the passage 22c side (communication hole <NUM>) with respect to the valve body <NUM>.

In the first state (see <FIG>) in which the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> expands and deforms, the base side of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> protrudes into the communication hole <NUM>. The heat receiving area of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is larger on the second surface 25b side of the valve body <NUM> than on the first surface 25a side. Therefore, although the temperature is also sensed on the first passage <NUM> side, the sensitivity to the temperature of the fluid FD that passes through the second passage <NUM> via the return port 2d after passing through the heat exchanger <NUM> is particularly ensured.

The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is exposed in the connection passage <NUM> in the second state P2 in which the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> contracts. In the second state P2, the fluid FD does not flow on the passage 22c side, but the tip surface 29a of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> faces the communication hole <NUM>. Consequently, when the fluid FD that passes through the connection passage <NUM> during bypassing passes through the communication hole <NUM> via the external inlet 2a, the fluid FD is likely to contact the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM>, and the sensitivity to the temperature of the fluid FD is ensured.

An operation example of the heat exchanger system <NUM> is now described. <FIG> are referred to for each portion of the valve <NUM>. <FIG> are referred to for each portion of the external fluid circuit <NUM>.

First, when the aircraft engine <NUM> is started, for example, the pump <NUM> of the external fluid circuit <NUM> starts circulating the fluid FD in a low-temperature state, and the fluid FD flows into the external inlet 2a of the valve <NUM>. While the temperature of the fluid FD that has flowed into the external inlet 2a is lower than the predetermined temperature, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> contracts and deforms, and the valve body <NUM> contacts the second valve seat 24a. Consequently, the valve <NUM> is in the second state P2. The fluid FD is sent from the external outlet 2b to the external fluid circuit <NUM> through the connection passage <NUM> without flowing to the heat exchanger <NUM> side. Therefore, while the valve <NUM> is in the second state P2, the fluid FD receives heat from the aircraft engine <NUM>, for example, in the process of flowing through the external fluid circuit <NUM>, but does not actively release heat in the heat exchanger <NUM>. Thus, the temperature rises efficiently.

When the temperature of the fluid FD that has flowed into the external inlet 2a becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> expands and deforms, and the valve body <NUM> contacts the first valve seat 23a. Consequently, the valve <NUM> is in the first state P1. The fluid FD flows to the heat exchanger <NUM> side through the first passage <NUM>. The fluid FD flows in from a first end of the forward path 15a (see <FIG>) via the supply port 2c of the valve <NUM>, flows into the return path 15b (see <FIG>) at a second end (turned-back portion) of the forward path 15a, and returns from a first end of the return path 15b to the return port 2d of the valve <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, on the outside of the core <NUM>, a high-speed airflow passes along each radiating fin <NUM> on the surfaces (11a and 11b) of the core <NUM> as the aircraft engine <NUM> (see <FIG>) operates. Consequently, heat exchange is performed between the fluid FD that flows through the core <NUM> (through the flow path <NUM>) shown in <FIG> and an external airflow via the core <NUM> and each radiating fin <NUM>. That is, the heat of the high-temperature fluid FD is transferred to each radiating fin <NUM> via the corrugated fins <NUM>, the first member <NUM>, and the second member <NUM>, and is radiated from each radiating fin <NUM> to the external airflow.

The fluid FD cooled in the heat exchanger <NUM> is sent from the heat exchanger <NUM> to the external fluid circuit <NUM> through the second passage <NUM> of the valve <NUM>. Therefore, while the valve <NUM> is in the first state P1, the fluid FD circulates in the external fluid circuit <NUM>, the valve <NUM>, and the heat exchanger <NUM> while efficiently releasing the heat absorbed from the aircraft engine <NUM>, for example, in the heat exchanger <NUM>.

According to the first embodiment, the following advantageous effects are achieved.

According to the first embodiment, with the above configuration, in the first state P1, the heat exchanger <NUM> is connected to the external fluid circuit <NUM>, and performs heat exchange for the fluid FD. In the second state P2, the return port 2d is shut off, and thus the fluid FD that has flowed in via the external inlet 2a of the valve <NUM> is sent to the external fluid circuit <NUM> via the external outlet 2b. Accordingly, the valve <NUM> is switched to the second state P2 such that the fluid FD can be sent from the valve <NUM> to the external fluid circuit <NUM> without flowing into the heat exchanger <NUM>. Therefore, all of the fluid FD is allowed to reliably bypass around the heat exchanger <NUM> by the valve <NUM>.

Furthermore, the valve <NUM> includes one valve body <NUM> that moves to switch between the first state P1 and the second state P2. Accordingly, unlike a configuration in which two or more valve bodies operate in conjunction with each other for flow path switching in the valve <NUM>, for example, it is possible to switch between the first state P1 and the second state P2 with a simple configuration. Note that particularly in a heat exchanger system <NUM> mounted on an aircraft, it is required to meet weight restrictions and size restrictions, and thus the above configuration that enables simplification of the configuration of the heat exchanger system <NUM> is particularly effective.

Furthermore, the valve body <NUM> is configured to switch between the first state P1 and the second state P2 by selectively moving to the position at which the connection passage <NUM> is shut off and the position at which the return port 2d side of the second passage <NUM> with respect to the connection passage <NUM> is shut off. Accordingly, a configuration in which one valve body <NUM> can perform switching between the first state P1 and the second state P2 can be achieved simply by configuring the valve body <NUM> to selectively shut off the second passage <NUM> and the connection passage <NUM>.

Furthermore, the valve <NUM> is a poppet valve, and the valve body <NUM> contacts the first valve seat 23a on the first surface 25a in the moving direction and contacts the second valve seat 24a on the second surface 25b in the moving direction. Accordingly, it is possible to switch between the first state P1 and the second state P2, using a poppet valve that can reduce the stroke of the valve body <NUM> with a simple structure. In addition, whereas in a poppet valve, one valve body (poppet) generally only opens and closes one passage, one valve body <NUM> (poppet) contacts the valve seats (23a and 24a) on the opposite surfaces (25a and 25b) of the valve body <NUM>, respectively, and thus one valve body <NUM> can selectively perform passage switching (opening and closing of a plurality of passages) between the first state P1 and the second state P2. Consequently, the heat exchanger system <NUM> including the valve <NUM> can be reduced in size and weight.

Furthermore, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> configured to sense the temperature of the fluid FD on both the first surface 25a side and the second surface 25b side of the valve body <NUM> is provided. Accordingly, as compared with a configuration in which temperature sensors are provided at a plurality of locations such as the external inlet 2a and the external outlet 2b in the valve, and the valve body is moved by an electric actuator or the like, for example, due to the common temperature-sensitive drive <NUM>, the configuration that switches the valve <NUM> to the first state P1 or the second state P2 according to the temperature of the fluid FD can be simplified.

Furthermore, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> penetrates the valve body <NUM> to be exposed on the first surface 25a and the second surface 25b. Accordingly, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> configured to sense the temperature on both the first surface 25a side and the second surface 25b side can be achieved with a simple configuration. In addition, the thickness of the plate-shaped valve body <NUM> through which the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> penetrates can be reduced to the minimum necessary, and thus the size of the valve <NUM> including the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> and the valve body <NUM> can be minimized.

Furthermore, the valve <NUM> switches between the first state P1 and the second state P2 according to the temperature of the fluid FD that flows through the valve <NUM>. Accordingly, when the temperature of the fluid FD is out of a desired temperature range, the temperature of the fluid FD can be changed quickly to within the desired temperature range.

Specifically, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> switches the valve <NUM> to the second state P2 in a low-temperature environment in which the temperature of the fluid FD is lower than the predetermined temperature, and thus the fluid FD bypasses around the heat exchanger <NUM> to be sent to the external fluid circuit <NUM> such that the temperature of the fluid FD can be quickly raised. When the temperature of the fluid FD rises above the predetermined temperature, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> switches the valve <NUM> to the first state P1, and thus the heat exchanger <NUM> can perform heat exchange for the fluid FD.

Furthermore, the heat exchanger <NUM> is provided along the curved surface S in the aircraft engine <NUM> to cool the fluid FD that flows therethrough by heat exchange with the airflow that flows through the aircraft engine <NUM>. Accordingly, it is possible to obtain the heat exchanger system <NUM> including the valve <NUM> configured to allow the fluid FD (lubricating oil) to be cooled to reliably bypass around a surface cooler formed along the curved surface S (such as the inner peripheral surface of the fan casing) in the aircraft engine <NUM>.

A second embodiment is now described with reference to <FIG>, <FIG>. In the second embodiment, an example is described in which a heat exchanger system <NUM> (see <FIG>) has a valve configuration different from that of the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the configurations other than a valve <NUM> are the same as or similar to those of the first embodiment, and thus the same reference numerals are used, and description thereof is omitted.

The heat exchanger system <NUM> according to the second embodiment includes a heat exchanger <NUM> and the valve <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, the valve <NUM> includes one valve body <NUM> that moves to switch between a first state P1 (see <FIG>) and a second state P2 (see <FIG>). The valve <NUM> according to the second embodiment is a poppet valve including the valve body <NUM> configured to linearly move between a first valve seat 23a for switching to the first state P1 and a second valve seat 24a for switching to the second state P2, similarly to the first embodiment.

In the second embodiment, the valve body <NUM> includes a hollow case <NUM> including a first surface 211a and a second surface 211b. The case <NUM> has the first surface 211a, the second surface 211b, and a side surface 211c, and includes, on the second surface 211b side, an insertion hole 211d that penetrates the case <NUM>. The tip of a rod <NUM> is inserted into the insertion hole 211d so as to be slidable on the inner peripheral surface of the case <NUM>.

In the second embodiment, a temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is arranged inside the case <NUM>. That is, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is housed in an internal space surrounded by the case <NUM> and the tip of the rod <NUM>. The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> according to the second embodiment has a configuration in which wax is encapsulated in the valve body <NUM> (case <NUM>), and the rod <NUM> functions as a piston rod of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM>.

With this configuration, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> can sense the temperature of a fluid FD on both the first surface 211a side and the second surface 211b side of the valve body <NUM>, and can sense the temperature of the fluid FD from the entire surface of the valve body <NUM> (case <NUM>) via the case <NUM>. In other words, in the second embodiment, in addition to the function of selectively closing a second passage <NUM> or a connection passage <NUM>, the valve body <NUM> functions as a temperature sensor that senses the heat of the fluid FD to expand or contract the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM>. The case <NUM> is made of a material such as metal capable of transmitting the heat of the fluid FD to the internal temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> (wax).

The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> moves the valve body <NUM> to switch the valve <NUM> to the first state P1 when the fluid FD has a temperature equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature. That is, when the fluid FD having a temperature equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature contacts the valve body <NUM>, the temperature of the fluid FD is transmitted to the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> inside the valve body <NUM>, and the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> expands and deforms. Due to the expansion and deformation of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> inside the case <NUM>, the first surface 211a of the valve body <NUM> moves toward a communication hole <NUM>, and contacts the first valve seat 23a. Consequently, the connection passage <NUM> is shut off, and the valve <NUM> is in the first state. Thus, an external inlet 2a and a supply port 2c are connected to each other, and an external outlet 2b and a return port 2d are connected to each other.

The temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> moves the valve body <NUM> to switch the valve <NUM> to the second state P2 when the fluid FD has a temperature lower than the predetermined temperature. That is, when the fluid FD having a temperature lower than the predetermined temperature contacts the valve body <NUM>, the temperature of the fluid FD is transmitted to the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> inside the valve body <NUM>, and the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> contracts and deforms. Due to the contraction and deformation of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> inside the case <NUM>, the second surface 211b of the valve body <NUM> moves toward a communication hole <NUM>, and contacts the second valve seat 24a. Consequently, the second passage <NUM> (the return port 2d side of the second passage <NUM> with respect to the connection passage <NUM>) is shut off, and the valve <NUM> is in the second state P2. Thus, the return port 2d is shut off, and the external inlet 2a and the external outlet 2b are connected to each other.

The dimension in a Z direction of the valve body <NUM> according to the second embodiment is larger by the stroke of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> than that of the plate-shaped valve body <NUM> according to the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, heat can be transferred from the entire outer surface of the case <NUM>, which contacts the fluid FD, to the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM>, and thus the heat receiving area of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is increased. Consequently, it is possible to improve the sensitivity of the valve <NUM> to the temperature of the fluid FD when the valve <NUM> switches between the first state P1 and the second state P2.

The remaining configurations of the second embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment.

According to the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, in the first state P1, the heat exchanger <NUM> is connected to an external fluid circuit <NUM>, and the heat exchanger <NUM> performs heat exchange for the fluid FD. In the second state P2, the return port 2d is shut off, and thus the fluid FD that has flowed in via the external inlet 2a of the valve <NUM> is sent to the external fluid circuit <NUM> via the external outlet 2b. Accordingly, the valve <NUM> is switched to the second state P2 such that the fluid FD can be sent from the valve <NUM> to the external fluid circuit <NUM> without flowing into the heat exchanger <NUM>, and thus all of the fluid FD is allowed to reliably bypass around the heat exchanger <NUM> by the valve <NUM>.

Furthermore, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> is arranged inside the case <NUM> of the valve body <NUM> including the first surface 211a and the second surface 211b. Accordingly, the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> can sense the temperature of the fluid FD that contacts the surface of the case <NUM> via the case <NUM> and move the valve body <NUM> (case <NUM>). Thus, the entire case <NUM> serves as a temperature sensor, and thus the sensitivity of the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> can be easily ensured.

The remaining advantageous effects of the second embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment.

The embodiments disclosed this time must be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is not shown by the above description of the embodiments but by the scope of claims for patent, and all modifications (modified examples) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims for patent are further included.

For example, while the example in which the heat exchanger is a surface cooler has been shown in each of the aforementioned first and second embodiments, the present invention is not restricted to this. The present invention may be applied to a plate-fin heat exchanger or a shell and tube heat exchanger other than a surface cooler. In that case, it is not necessary to provide the heat exchanger along the curved surface S in the aircraft engine, and the heat exchanger may be installed at a predetermined position in the engine or may be installed in a bypass flow path through which a branched portion of the airflow in the engine flows, for example. Alternatively, the present invention may be applied to a heat exchanger system mounted on an aircraft other than the heat exchanger system as an oil cooler configured to cool a lubricating oil of the aircraft, or a heat exchanger system provided in other equipment other than an aircraft.

While the example in which the fluid FD is a lubricating oil of an engine or a lubricating oil of a generator, for example has been shown in each of the aforementioned first and second embodiments, the present invention is not restricted to this. The type of fluid FD is not particularly limited. The fluid FD may be any fluid.

While the heat exchanger system <NUM> in which the high-temperature fluid FD is cooled by the heat exchanger <NUM> has been shown as an example in each of the aforementioned first and second embodiments, the present invention is not restricted to this. In the present invention, a heat exchanger system in which a low-temperature fluid is heated by a heat exchanger may be used. In that case, when the temperature of the fluid is too high in a high-temperature environment, for example, a valve is switched to a second state P2 according to the temperature of the fluid so as to allow the fluid to bypass around the heat exchanger and sent to an external fluid circuit. Thus, the temperature of the fluid can be quickly reduced.

While the example in which the valve <NUM> (<NUM>) that switches between the first state P1 and the second state P2 according to the temperature of the fluid FD is provided has been shown in each of the aforementioned first and second embodiments, the present invention is not restricted to this. In the present invention, the valve may be switched based on a physical quantity other than the temperature of the fluid, such as a pressure, or the valve may be switched based on an electric signal from a controller, for example.

While the example in which one valve body <NUM> (<NUM>) switches between the first state P1 and the second state P2 has been shown in each of the aforementioned first and second embodiments, the present invention is not restricted to this. In the present invention, the valve may include a plurality of valve bodies that move in conjunction with each other.

While the example in which the valve <NUM> (<NUM>) is configured as a poppet valve has been shown in each of the aforementioned first and second embodiments, the present invention is not restricted to this. In the present invention, the valve may be a type of valve other than a poppet valve, such as a spool valve.

While the example in which in the second state P2, the valve body <NUM> (<NUM>) shuts off the return port 2d (the return port 2d side of the second passage <NUM> with respect to the connection passage <NUM>) such that the fluid FD is allowed to bypass around the heat exchanger <NUM> has been shown in each of the aforementioned first and second embodiments, the present invention is not restricted to this. In the second state P2, the valve body <NUM> may shut off the supply port 2c (the supply port 2c side of the first passage <NUM> with respect to the connection passage <NUM>) such that the fluid FD is allowed to bypass around the heat exchanger <NUM>. For example, as in a modified example shown in <FIG>, the positions of an external inlet 302a and an external outlet 302b may be opposite to those of the first embodiment, and the positions of a supply port 302c and a return port 302d may be opposite to those of the first embodiment.

In the case of <FIG>, a first valve seat 323a is formed in a communication hole <NUM> that allows a passage 22b and a passage 22c to communicate with each other, and a second valve seat 324a is formed in a communication hole <NUM> that allows a passage 22a and the passage 22b to communicate with each other. A first passage <NUM> includes the passage 22b, the communication hole <NUM>, and the passage 22c. A second passage <NUM> includes the passage 22a. A connection passage <NUM> includes the communication hole <NUM>. In a second state P2, a valve body <NUM> is moved in a Z1 direction to shut off the supply port 302c (the supply port 2c side of the first passage <NUM> with respect to the connection passage <NUM>). A fluid FD cannot flow into the heat exchanger <NUM>, the inlet (forward path 15a) of which is shut off, and thus the fluid FD flows into the external outlet 302b via the external inlet 302a through the connection passage <NUM> without flowing into the heat exchanger <NUM>. Alternatively, when a plurality of valve bodies are provided, both the supply port 302c and the return port 302d may be shut off in the second state P2.

While the example in which the temperature-sensitive drive <NUM> (<NUM>) (temperature-sensitive actuator) that moves the valve body <NUM> (<NUM>) according to the temperature of the fluid FD is provided has been shown in each of the aforementioned first and second embodiments, the present invention is not restricted to this. In the present invention, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the fluid and a drive that moves the valve body may be separately provided. As a temperature sensor, a temperature sensor can be used. As a drive, an electric motor or a solenoid can be used, for example. In this case, the drive is only required to move the valve body according to a temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

Claim 1:
A heat exchanger system comprising:
a heat exchanger (<NUM>) configured to allow a fluid (FD) to flow therethrough and perform heat exchange; and
a valve (<NUM>; <NUM>) including an external inlet (2a; 302a) and an external outlet (2b; 302b), both of which are connected to an external fluid circuit (<NUM>) configured to allow the fluid (FD) to flow therethrough, a supply port (2c; 302c) configured to allow the fluid (FD) to be supplied to the heat exchanger (<NUM>), and a return port (2d; 302d) configured to receive the fluid (FD) that has passed through the heat exchanger (<NUM>); characterized in that
the valve (<NUM>; <NUM>) is configured to be switchable between:
a first state (P1) in which the external inlet (2a; 302a) and the supply port (2c; 302c) are connected to each other, and the external outlet (2b; 302b) and the return port (2d; 302d) are connected to each other; and
a second state (P2) in which at least one of the supply port (2c; 302c) and the return port (2d; 302d) is shut off, and the external inlet (2a; 302a) and the external outlet (2b; 302b) are connected to each other; and
the valve (<NUM>; <NUM>) includes:
only one valve body (<NUM>; <NUM>) configured to move to contact a first valve seat (23a; 323a) on a first surface (25a; 211a) in a moving direction of the valve body (<NUM>; <NUM>) so as to switch to the first state (P1) and to contact a second valve seat (24a; 324a) on a second surface (25b; 211b) in the moving direction of the valve body (<NUM>; <NUM>) so as to switch to the second state (P2);
a rod urged toward the first valve seat (23a; 323a) by a spring member; and
a temperature-sensitive drive (<NUM>; <NUM>) provided at a tip of the rod and configured to move the valve body (<NUM>; <NUM>) according to a temperature of the fluid (FD); and
the only one valve body (<NUM>; <NUM>) having the first surface (25a; 211a) and the second surface (25b; 211b) is fixed to the temperature-sensitive drive (<NUM>; <NUM>).