Method for distributing and regulating the flow of coolant

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The valve of the present invention replaces a conventional radiator thermostat and heater valve that are typically employed in modern automobiles.
The valve controls the flow and distribution of coolant to the radiator, radiator bypass and heater and may optionally control the degassing of the coolant.
FIG.
1 is a perspective view of a valve assembly 12 that includes the valve 14 of the present invention.
The valve controls the flow of coolant therethrough, wherein coolant entering through inlet port 16 is distributed via a preselectable combination of outlet ports 18, 20, 22, and 24.
Setting the inlet port into fluid communication with a desired combination of outlet ports is achieved via the operation of an associated drive mechanism 26, which may take the form of a stepper motor and reduction gear combination.
FIG.
2 is a perspective view of the valve 14 sans drive mechanism.
The valve includes a valve rotor 28 that is rotationally received within a valve housing 30.
The valve housing has a plurality of ports formed therein, including an inlet port 16, a radiator port 18, a bypass port 20, a heater port 22 and a degassing port 24.
Each of the ports extend through the wall of the housing to define a conduit to its interior.
The axis 32 of the inlet port and the axis 34 of the radiator port are aligned with one another and lie on a first plane that is perpendicular to the central axis 36 of the cylindrical valve.
The axis 38 of the bypass port and the axis 40 of the heater port lie on a second plane that is perpendicular to the central axis wherein such second plane is axially displaced relative to the first plane.
The axis 42 of the degassing port extends from the base of the valve housing, is generally parallel to the central valve axis 36, and radially offset therefrom.
In the embodiment illustrated, each of the ports has a length of barbed tubing 43, 44 and 45 of appropriate length and diameter extending therefrom configured for receiving a coolant carrying hose or line that may be fitted and clamped thereto