Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a multi-way valve. In one example, a system may comprise a multi-way valve comprising a regulator material arranged in a toroidal, flexible housing arranged in a passage shaped to flow a fluid. The regulator material may phase change in response to a temperature of the fluid, wherein the phase change may result in a constriction of a flow-through area of the passage.

Abstract: A cooling system for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine permits rapid warm-up of the engine by the use of two electrically-operated valves in addition to a conventional thermostat. A bypass valve and a heater valve both remain closed at low coolant temperatures and engine speeds, thereby inhibiting coolant flow through the engine. A control unit opens the bypass valve to prevent cavitation in the water pump if engine speed and/or load exceeds a certain value. The heater valve is opened when a threshold engine coolant temperature is reached permitting warming of the heater matrix.