Fluid control valve

Abstract

To allow a user to easily determine whether a fluid on-off valve is closed at a low pressure, open at a predetermined pressure, or closed at a high pressure.SOLUTION: When a diaphragm is in a first position at a low pressure, a low pressure display part is exposed from a predetermined pressure display part in a second direction and a user has an intuition that a fluid on-off valve is closed in a low pressure state. Further, when the diaphragm is in a third position at a predetermined pressure, the low pressure display part is covered with the predetermined pressure display part and the predetermined pressure display part is in the most noticeable state. Thus, the user can grasp a state that the fluid on-off valve is open in a predetermined pressure state. Furthermore, when the diaphragm is in a second position at a high pressure, a high pressure display part pops in the second direction from the predetermined pressure display part. Thus, when the diaphragm is in the second position, the high pressure display part is noticeable and the user can confirm that the fluid on-off valve is closed in a high pressure state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosure of this case relates to an on-off valve that switches the opening and closing of a flow path according to the pressure of a fluid, and can be used, for example, for opening and closing a gas pipe.

Background Art

[0002] As a fluid on-off valve, when the fluid pressure is lower than a predetermined pressure on the low-pressure side in a state where the fluid pressure is lower than the predetermined pressure on the low-pressure side according to the pressure of the fluid, the flow path is closed. When the fluid pressure is in the operating pressure state between the predetermined pressure on the low-pressure side and the predetermined pressure on the high-pressure side, the flow path is opened. When the fluid pressure becomes higher than the predetermined pressure on the high-pressure side, an on-off valve that closes the flow path may be used. In the fluid on-off valve described in Patent Document 1, in order to switch and maintain the three states of closed, open, and closed, a diaphragm that changes according to pressure is used. And the displacement of the diaphragm is transmitted to a cap arranged at the atmosphere communication port.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, although the cap moves according to the displacement of the diaphragm, the cap itself does not intuitively display the position of the diaphragm, that is, the opening and closing position of the fluid on-off valve. Therefore, it has been difficult for the user to immediately determine whether the position of the fluid on-off valve is in the normal open state or the abnormal closed state.

[0005] In view of the above points, the disclosure of this case aims to enable the user to easily determine whether the fluid on-off valve is closed at low pressure, open at a predetermined pressure, or closed at high pressure.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One of the disclosures is a fluid on / off valve having a valve body having a diaphragm chamber, an inlet passage for fluid to flow into the diaphragm chamber, an outlet passage for fluid to flow out of the diaphragm chamber, and a valve cover that is positioned between the diaphragm chamber and a substantially circular diaphragm and forms a constant pressure chamber whose interior is maintained at atmospheric pressure via an atmospheric communication port. Another disclosure also has a valve body mechanism positioned in the diaphragm chamber and movable in a first direction which is the direction of displacement of the diaphragm toward the diaphragm chamber and in a second direction which is the direction of displacement of the diaphragm toward the constant pressure chamber, which blocks the inlet passage and the outlet passage when the diaphragm is at a first position which is the end in the first direction and a second position which is the end in the second direction, and connects the inlet passage and the outlet passage when the diaphragm is at a third position which is an intermediate part between the first direction and the second direction.

[0007] Furthermore, one of the disclosures also includes a fixing member having a high-pressure indicator unit that is movable in a first and second direction relative to the atmospheric communication port of the valve cover and displaces from a first position to a second position of the diaphragm, a predetermined pressure indicator unit that is movable in a first and second direction relative to the atmospheric communication port of the valve cover and displaces from a first position to a third position of the diaphragm, and a low-pressure indicator unit that is fixedly positioned at the atmospheric communication port of the valve cover and is exposed in a second direction from the predetermined pressure indicator unit when the diaphragm is in the first position, and is covered by the predetermined pressure indicator unit when the diaphragm is in the third position.

[0008] According to one of the disclosures, when the diaphragm is in the first position, the low-pressure indicator is exposed in a second direction from the predetermined-pressure indicator, so by looking at the low-pressure indicator, the user can intuitively understand that the fluid valve is closed at low pressure. Also, when the diaphragm is in the third position, the low-pressure indicator is covered by the predetermined-pressure indicator, making the predetermined-pressure indicator the most visible. This allows the user to understand that the fluid valve is open at the predetermined-pressure. Furthermore, while the high-pressure indicator can move up to the second position of the diaphragm, the predetermined-pressure indicator can only move up to the third position of the diaphragm. Therefore, when the diaphragm is in the second position, the high-pressure indicator protrudes in a second direction from the predetermined-pressure indicator. As a result, when the diaphragm is in the second position, the high-pressure indicator is conspicuous, and the user can confirm that the fluid valve is closed at high pressure.

[0009] Except as otherwise provided, the predetermined pressure indicator has a through hole, and the low-pressure indicator is positioned to pass through this through hole. When the diaphragm is in the first position, the low-pressure indicator protrudes from the through hole, and when the diaphragm is in the third position, the low-pressure indicator is embedded in the through hole.

[0010] As otherwise provided in this disclosure, when the diaphragm is in the first position, the low-pressure indicator protrudes from the through-hole, so by looking at the protruding low-pressure indicator, the user can intuitively understand that the fluid valve is closed at a low pressure. Also, when the diaphragm is in the third position, the low-pressure indicator is embedded in the through-hole, so it cannot be seen. Therefore, the user can understand that the fluid valve is open at a predetermined pressure.

[0011] Except as otherwise provided, the low-pressure indicator and through-hole are arranged in multiple positions approximately point-symmetrical with respect to the central axis of the diaphragm. Because multiple indicators are provided, the user can reliably determine whether the fluid valve is closed at low pressure or open at a predetermined pressure. In particular, their arrangement, approximately point-symmetrical with respect to the central axis of the diaphragm, makes them easy for the user to understand.

[0012] Further in this disclosure, the fixing member is provided with a locking mechanism that allows movement of the predetermined pressure indicator from the first position to the third position in the first and second directions, and prevents movement of the predetermined pressure indicator from the third position to the second position in the second direction. This prevents the predetermined pressure indicator from moving further in the second direction from the third position. In other words, only the high-pressure indicator moves in the second direction, and the high-pressure indicator can be made to protrude from the predetermined pressure indicator when the pressure is high.

[0013] Further aspects of this disclosure include a predetermined pressure indicator spring that biases the predetermined pressure indicator in a second direction. This allows the predetermined pressure indicator, together with the high-pressure indicator, to be displaced in the second direction to a third position.

[0014] Further disclosures further include a diaphragm biasing spring that biases the diaphragm in a first direction. While the diaphragm biasing spring is not essential, its addition can stabilize the behavior of the diaphragm.

[0015] Further disclosure of this disclosure is that the high-pressure indicator, the predetermined pressure indicator, and the low-pressure indicator are colored in different colors. By changing the colors of the high-pressure indicator, the predetermined pressure indicator, and the low-pressure indicator, it is possible for the user to more easily determine whether the fluid valve is closed at high pressure, open at predetermined pressure, or closed at low pressure.

[0016] Further disclosures of this disclosure describe a valve mechanism comprising a cam structure that moves with the diaphragm in a first and second direction, and a valve member that moves in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, which is a direction from the valve seat formed in the inlet passage toward the diaphragm chamber, and a fourth direction toward the valve seat toward the diaphragm chamber in the inlet passage, to open and close the valve seat. Furthermore, the cam structure has a shape in which the first and second positions are shifted in the third direction from the third position, and the valve member comprises a valve body that contacts and disengages from the valve seat, and a valve rod that contacts the cam structure and transmits the movement of the cam structure in the first and second directions to the valve body in exchange for displacement in the third and fourth directions.

[0017] According to this disclosure, the valve body mechanism can reliably close the fluid on-off valve in a high-pressure state. And in a predetermined pressure state, the fluid on-off valve can be smoothly opened, and at the same time, the fluid on-off valve can be reliably closed even in a low-pressure state.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid on-off valve in a low-pressure closed state (first position). [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid on-off valve in a predetermined pressure open state (third position). [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid on-off valve in a high-pressure closed state (second position). [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the high-pressure display portion, the predetermined pressure display portion, and the low-pressure display portion of the fluid on-off valve shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the high-pressure display portion, the predetermined pressure display portion, and the low-pressure display portion of the fluid on-off valve shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the high-pressure display portion, the predetermined pressure display portion, and the low-pressure display portion of the fluid on-off valve shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the high-pressure display portion, the predetermined pressure display portion, and the low-pressure display portion of another example of the fluid on-off valve. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the valve cover portion of another example of the fluid on-off valve. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another example of the fluid on-off valve in a low-pressure closed state (first position). [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another example of the fluid on-off valve in a predetermined pressure open state (third position). [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another example of the fluid on-off valve in a high-pressure closed state (second position).

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] In Figures 1 to 3, 1 is a fluid valve. 100 is the valve body, which is formed from die-cast aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The valve body 100 has a cylindrical diaphragm chamber 110 with a maximum diameter of approximately 50 to 60 millimeters. The valve body 100 also has an inlet passage 120 through which fluid flows into the diaphragm chamber 110. In this example, gas is used as the fluid. The inlet passage 120 is connected to a gas inlet pipe from a gas company or the like. The inner diameter of the inlet passage 120 is approximately 5 to 10 millimeters.

[0020] A valve seat 130 is formed on the valve body 100 on the side of the inlet passage 120 opposite to the diaphragm chamber 110. The valve body 100 also has an outlet passage 140 through which fluid flows out of the diaphragm chamber 110. The inner diameter of the outlet passage 140 is also about 5 to 10 millimeters. Downstream of the outlet passage 140, an outlet pipe (not shown) made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon is arranged. Gas piping connecting a gas appliance such as a household gas stove to the fluid shut-off valve 1 is connected to the outlet pipe.

[0021] A valve cover 300 made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy is positioned opposite the diaphragm chamber 110 of the valve body 100. The outer circumference of a circular diaphragm 310 made of nitrile rubber is sandwiched between the valve cover 300 and the valve body 100. Thus, the diaphragm chamber 110 is closed by the diaphragm 310. The valve cover 300 is also separated from the diaphragm chamber 110 by the diaphragm 310. Inside the valve cover 300, a constant pressure chamber 320 is formed between the diaphragm 310 and the valve cover 300. The constant pressure chamber 320 communicates with the atmosphere via a cylindrical atmospheric communication port 330, and therefore the constant pressure chamber 320 is at atmospheric pressure.

[0022] The diaphragm 310 is circular, but does not need to be perfectly circular; some deformation is acceptable depending on the shape of the valve cover 300, etc. A metal rod 340 is positioned on the inner circumference of the diaphragm 310. The rod 340 is made of stainless steel, iron, aluminum, or an aluminum alloy, etc. The rod 340 is cylindrical, with a diameter of approximately 5 millimeters and a length of approximately 30 millimeters.

[0023] A disc-shaped retaining plate 350, made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon, is positioned on the inner circumference of the diaphragm 310. The inner circumference of the diaphragm 310 is held together with this retaining plate 350 by a flange 341 and a nut 342 formed on the rod 340. The upper part of the rod 340 is slidably supported by the atmospheric communication port 330 of the valve cover 300. In other words, the lower part of the rod 340 is held by the inner circumference of the diaphragm 310, and the upper part is held by the atmospheric communication port 330.

[0024] A shoulder portion 343 is formed on the upper part of the rod 340, and the high-pressure indicator unit 360 is locked to this shoulder portion 343. The high-pressure indicator unit 360 is made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon, and is roughly cylindrical in shape, with a disc-shaped connecting portion 361 placed on the inner circumference of the cylindrical middle section. Of the high-pressure indicator unit 360, this connecting portion 361 is locked to the shoulder portion 343 of the rod 340, and in that state it is tightened and fixed by a circlip 344. The connecting portion 361 has multiple communication ports 362 that connect the atmospheric communication port 330 to the outside.

[0025] A disc-shaped high-voltage indicator plate 363 is positioned in the opening at the second end of the high-voltage indicator unit 360. This high-voltage indicator plate 363 is also made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon. A high-voltage indicator plate locking portion 364 is formed on the high-voltage indicator plate 363. This high-voltage indicator plate locking portion 364 snaps into place and engages with a high-voltage indicator plate locking portion 365 on the inner circumference of the high-voltage indicator unit 360. Therefore, the high-voltage indicator plate 363 forms part of the high-voltage indicator unit 360 and is movable together with the high-voltage indicator unit 360.

[0026] A cylindrical predetermined pressure indicator 380, having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the high-pressure indicator 360, is positioned on the outer circumference of the high-pressure indicator 360. This predetermined pressure indicator 380 is also made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon. A predetermined pressure locking portion 381 is formed on the outer circumference of the predetermined pressure indicator 380, and a predetermined pressure indicator spring 382 is positioned between this predetermined pressure locking portion 381 and the upper surface of the valve cover 300. That is, a spring receiver is formed on the upper surface of the valve cover 300, and the predetermined pressure indicator spring 382 interposed between this spring receiver and the predetermined pressure locking portion 381 biases the predetermined pressure indicator 380 in a second direction relative to the valve cover 300. As a result, when the high-pressure indicator 360 is displaced in the second direction, the predetermined pressure indicator 380 is also displaced in the second direction.

[0027] A cylindrical fixing member 390, having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the predetermined pressure display unit 380, is positioned on the outer circumference of the predetermined pressure display unit 380. This fixing member 390 is also made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon. A fixing member locking portion 391 is formed on the inner circumference of the fixing member 390, which engages with the predetermined pressure locking portion 381. When the predetermined pressure display unit 380 moves a predetermined distance in the second direction, the predetermined pressure locking portion 381 engages with the fixing member locking portion 391, preventing the predetermined pressure display unit 380 from moving any further in the second direction. The fixing member 390 is fitted and fixed to the upper surface of the valve cover 300. Therefore, the fixing member 390 does not move in the first or second direction.

[0028] The second directional end of the predetermined pressure indicator section 380 widens outward to form a predetermined pressure indicator flange 384. Four through holes 383 are formed in this predetermined pressure indicator flange 384, spaced equally apart in the circumferential direction around the central axis of the diaphragm 310 (as shown in Figure 7). A low pressure indicator section 392 is formed at the second directional end of the fixing member 390, passing through these through holes 383.

[0029] A diaphragm biasing spring 370 is positioned in the constant pressure chamber 320 to press the diaphragm 310 toward the diaphragm chamber 110. This diaphragm biasing spring 370 is made of spring steel, with one end in contact with the retaining plate 350 and the other end in contact with a contact surface 301 formed on the valve cover 300.

[0030] A cam structure 400 is positioned below the rod 340. The cam structure 400 is made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon, and a locking pin 401 of the cam structure 400 fits into an engagement hole 345 formed in the lower part of the rod 340. In this example, the diaphragm 310, rod 340, and cam structure 400 move in the vertical direction shown in Figures 1 to 3 according to the pressure difference between the diaphragm chamber 110 and the constant pressure chamber 320. However, the arrangement of the fluid on-off valve 1 in the figures is just one example, and the rod 340, etc., are not necessarily limited to vertical movement. Therefore, the downward direction in the figures will be called the first direction, and the upward direction will be called the second direction. The first direction is the direction in which the diaphragm 310, etc., is displaced toward the diaphragm chamber 110. The second direction is the direction in which the diaphragm 310, etc., is displaced toward the constant pressure chamber 320.

[0031] Furthermore, there are left and right directions that are perpendicular to the first and second directions, with the right direction being designated as the third direction and the left direction as the fourth direction. The third direction is both the direction of fluid flow from the valve seat 130 of the inlet passage 120 toward the diaphragm chamber 110 and the direction that closes the valve seat 130. The fourth direction is both the direction from the diaphragm chamber 110 of the inlet passage 120 toward the valve seat 130 and the direction that opens the valve seat 130.

[0032] A first cam surface 410 is formed at the first (downward) end of the cam structure 400. The first cam surface 410 is substantially flat in the first and second (upward) directions. A second cam surface 420 is formed at the second (upward) end of the cam structure 400. The second cam surface 420 is also substantially flat in the first and second (upward) directions. The first cam surface 410 and the second cam surface 420 are formed at substantially the same position in the third and fourth (left-right) directions.

[0033] A third cam surface 430 is formed in the intermediate portion of the cam structure 400 between the first direction and the second direction (vertical direction). This third cam surface 430 is also substantially flat in the first direction and the second direction (vertical direction). Furthermore, the third cam surface 430 is located in the fourth direction (left direction) compared to the first cam surface 410 and the second cam surface 420. In other words, the first cam surface 410 and the second cam surface 420 are located in the direction away from the valve seat 130 (third direction) compared to the third cam surface 430.

[0034] The space between the third cam surface 430 and the first cam surface 410 of the cam structure 400 is an inclined surface (first inclined surface 440) that slopes in the third direction (rightward) as it moves in the first direction (downward). Furthermore, the space between the second cam surface 420 and the third cam surface 430 is an inclined surface (second inclined surface 450) that slopes in the fourth direction (leftward) as it moves in the first direction (downward).

[0035] The bottom surface 460 of the cam structure 400 in the third direction (rightward), opposite to the surfaces on which the first to third cam surfaces 410, 420, and 430 are formed, is flat in the first direction and the second direction (up and down). This bottom surface 460 is supported by a support surface 150 formed on the valve body 100. That is, the cam structure 400 slides along the support surface 150 in the first direction and the second direction (up and down). Therefore, this support surface 150 also serves as a cam guide that supports the movement of the cam structure 400 in the first direction and the second direction (up and down). However, the movement of the cam structure 400 in the first direction and the second direction (up and down) is also supported by the rod 340. As described above, the movement of the rod 340 is held at the lower part by the inner circumference of the diaphragm 310 and at the upper part by the atmospheric communication port 330. Therefore, the diaphragm 310 and the atmospheric communication port 330 also act as cam guides that support the movement of the cam structure 400 in the first direction and the second direction (vertical direction).

[0036] The valve body member 500 is positioned so as to be in contact with the cam structure 400. The valve body member 500 is made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon, and is integrally molded with a valve body 510 that contacts and disengages from the valve seat 130 and a valve rod 520 that contacts the cam structure 400. In this example, the cam structure 400 and the valve body member 500 constitute the valve mechanism 550.

[0037] The valve rod 520 is held in a state that allows it to move in a third direction and a fourth direction (left and right direction) by a retaining passage 160 formed in the valve body 100. The tip 521 of the valve rod 520 is spherical and can move smoothly along the first cam surface 410, the first inclined surface 440, the third cam surface 430, the second inclined surface 450, and the second cam surface 420 of the cam structure 400.

[0038] A rubber seal material 511 is bonded to the surface of the valve body 510 that contacts the valve seat 130, ensuring that the inflow passage 120 is reliably closed when the valve body 510 is seated on the valve seat 130. In addition, the valve body 510 is pressed towards the valve seat 130 by the biasing force of the valve biasing spring 530, and this valve biasing spring 530 also ensures a secure seal when the valve body 510 is seated on the valve seat 130.

[0039] A flow control valve 600 is positioned upstream of the valve body member 500 in the inflow passage 120. One end of the valve biasing spring 530 is locked to the passage throttling portion 610 of the flow control valve 600. The other end of the valve biasing spring 530 is in contact with the valve body 510.

[0040] The flow control valve 600 has a ball valve 620 positioned opposite the passage throttling section 610, and a ball valve biasing spring 630 is positioned between the ball valve 620 and the passage throttling section 610 to bias the ball valve 620 away from the passage throttling section 610. The ball valve 620 and the ball valve biasing spring 630 are located inside the flow control valve housing 640. The flow control valve housing 640 has numerous passage holes 641 formed therein, so the inflow passage 120 is not restricted by the flow control valve housing 640. The passage throttling section 610, the ball valve 620, and the flow control valve housing 640 are all made of resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon. The passage throttling section 610 and the flow control valve housing 640 are bonded together.

[0041] A fluid switching valve 700 is positioned in the outflow passage 140 to switch the opening and closing of the passage. The fluid switching valve 700 comprises a valve member 710 and a seal member 720. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, a valve chamber 705 is formed so as to cross the linearly arranged outflow passage 140. The valve member 710 and the seal member 720 are positioned in this valve chamber 705.

[0042] The valve member 710 is made of a resin such as polyacetal POM or nylon and rotates within the valve chamber 705. A communication passage 730 is formed in the valve member 710 and the seal member 720. When the valve member 710 rotates and the communication passage 730 faces the outlet valve seat 141, the diaphragm chamber 110 and the outlet passage 140 are connected. When the seal member 720 rotates and faces the outlet valve seat 141, the space between the diaphragm chamber 110 and the outlet passage 140 is blocked. The valve member 710 and the seal member 720 are positioned eccentrically with respect to the valve chamber 705. As a result, when the seal member 720 faces the outlet valve seat 141 due to rotation, the seal member 720 is pressed against the outlet valve seat 141, ensuring a secure seal.

[0043] Next, the operation of the fluid switching valve 1 with the above configuration will be explained. During normal operation, the fluid switching valve 700 is open to the outflow passage 140 in the state shown in Figures 1 to 3. The state in Figure 1 is the state before the fluid switching valve 1 is connected to the gas pipe, and the state after it is connected to the gas pipe but the gas pressure is less than 1 kilopascal higher than atmospheric pressure. In the state in Figure 1, the diaphragm 310 is shifted toward the diaphragm chamber 110 side (first direction) by the diaphragm biasing spring 370 and is in the first position. As a result, the tip 521 of the valve rod 520 is in contact with the second cam surface 420.

[0044] The state of the valve body member 500 is maintained by the pressing force of the valve biasing spring 530. Therefore, even when the fluid on / off valve 1 is being transported as a standalone unit before being connected to the piping, movement of the rod 340, valve body member 500, etc., is effectively suppressed by the biasing force of the diaphragm biasing spring 370 and the valve biasing spring 530.

[0045] When the fluid valve 1 is connected to the gas piping and the pressure in the diaphragm chamber 110 exceeds atmospheric pressure by approximately 1 kilopascal or more, the diaphragm 310 shifts toward the constant pressure chamber 320 (second direction) against the biasing force of the diaphragm biasing spring 370. Along with this shift, the cam structure 400 also moves in the second direction. In response to this movement of the cam structure 400, the tip 521 of the valve rod 520 comes into contact with the second inclined surface 450 and moves in a direction that pulls the valve body 510 away from the valve seat 130 (fourth direction).

[0046] Figure 2 shows the state in which the tip 521 of the valve rod 520 has passed the second inclined surface 450 and is in contact with the third cam surface 430. In the state shown in Figure 2, the diaphragm 310 is in the intermediate third position. In this state, the sealing material 511 of the valve body 510 is detached from the valve seat 130, and the inflow passage 120 is open. In this state, the gas flow rate is adjusted by the flow control valve 600.

[0047] The ball valve 620 of the flow control valve 600 is pressed toward the flow control valve housing 640 by the ball valve biasing spring 630. Therefore, normally, the passage throttling section 610 is not throttled, and a predetermined amount of gas can flow. However, when the gas flow rate exceeds a predetermined amount, the ball valve 620 is displaced toward the passage throttling section 610 against the biasing force of the ball valve biasing spring 630. Then, the ball valve 620 and the passage throttling section 610 narrow the gas flow path and limit the gas flow rate. The cooperation of the ball valve 620, the passage throttling section 610, and the ball valve biasing spring 630 adjusts the gas flow rate to a predetermined amount. In particular, in this embodiment, the behavior of the flow control valve 600 is linked to the downstream fluid on / off valve 1. When the diaphragm 310 moves from the first position to the third position, the gas flow rate will rise sharply from zero. Also, even in the third position, the gas flow rate may increase rapidly. Even in such cases, the flow control valve 600 can stabilize the behavior of the fluid on / off valve 1 located downstream.

[0048] Since the third cam surface 430 is at a predetermined distance, even if the pressure inside the diaphragm chamber 110 rises by more than 1 kilopascal above atmospheric pressure and the cam structure 400 moves in the first direction, the state shown in Figure 2 can be maintained. This state is when the gas pressure inside the diaphragm chamber 110 is about 0.8 to 8 kilopascals higher than the atmospheric pressure inside the constant pressure chamber 320.

[0049] In other words, the predetermined operating pressure of the gas is approximately 0.8 to 8 kilopascals higher than atmospheric pressure. When the pressure falls below the predetermined low-pressure side pressure of 0.8 kilopascals, the tip 521 of the valve rod 520 extends beyond the second inclined surface 450 and contacts the first cam surface 410. This returns the valve to the first position shown in Figure 1.

[0050] When the gas pressure in the diaphragm chamber 110 becomes approximately 8 kilopascals or more higher than the atmospheric pressure in the constant pressure chamber 320, and exceeds the high-pressure side predetermined pressure, the tip 521 of the valve rod 520 extends beyond the first inclined surface 440 and faces the first cam surface 410. Figure 3 shows the state where the gas pressure is higher than the high-pressure side predetermined pressure and the diaphragm 310 is in the second position.

[0051] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the inclination angle of the first inclined surface 440 is steeper than that of the second inclined surface 450. This allows the cam to move to the first cam surface 410 immediately when the gas pressure rises above the high-pressure side predetermined pressure. Furthermore, once the cam moves to the first cam surface 410, it is difficult to return to the third cam surface 430. Conversely, since the inclination angle of the second inclined surface 450 is gentle, switching between the state where the gas pressure shown in Figure 2 is the predetermined operating pressure and the state where the gas pressure falls below the low-pressure side predetermined pressure, as shown in Figure 1, can be done relatively easily.

[0052] As shown in Figure 3, when the gas pressure exceeds the high-pressure side predetermined pressure and the fluid on-off valve 1 is closed, it is desirable to close the outflow passage 140 with the fluid switching valve 700. The switching operation of the fluid switching valve 700 is performed by an operator manually rotating the operating part formed on the valve member 710.

[0053] Once the abnormal gas pressure condition is resolved and the fluid on / off valve 1 returns to function, the fluid switching valve 700 also opens the outflow passage 140. The operator rotates the operating part 90 degrees, and the sealing member 720 separates from the outflow passage valve seat, returning to a state where gas can flow.

[0054] The fluid valve 1 performs the operations described above, and according to this disclosure, the user can visually understand what state the fluid valve 1 is in. The fluid valve 1 can be in several states: firstly, it is in a first position where the pressure in the diaphragm chamber 110 is low and it is at the end in the first direction. This is the state in which the fluid valve 1 is closed, as shown in Figure 1. Secondly, it is in a second position where the pressure in the diaphragm chamber 110 is high and it is at the end in the second direction. In this second position, the fluid valve 1 is closed, as shown in Figure 3. Thirdly, it is in a third position where the pressure in the diaphragm chamber 110 is at a predetermined pressure and it is an intermediate position between the first and second positions. In this third position, the fluid valve 1 is open, as shown in Figure 2.

[0055] In the first position shown in Figure 1, both the high-pressure indicator 360 and the predetermined-pressure indicator 380 are displaced to their maximum extent in the first direction. As a result, the low-pressure indicator 392 of the fixed member 390, which does not change position relative to the valve cover 300, protrudes in the second direction from the through-hole 383 of the predetermined-pressure indicator 380. This state is shown in the perspective view of Figure 4, and the user will notice the low-pressure indicator 392 protruding from the through-hole 383. In particular, in this example, the low-pressure indicator 392 is colored yellow, and the predetermined-pressure indicator 380 and high-pressure indicator plate 363 are colored gray, the same as the valve cover 300, so the protruding low-pressure indicator 392 is strongly impressed upon the user. Furthermore, because the low-pressure indicator 392 is protruding, it can be intuitively understood that the predetermined-pressure indicator 380 is fitted in the first direction. This makes it easy to understand that the diaphragm 310 is in the first position, displaced in the first direction. This first position represents the closed state of the fluid valve 1, which is the state during transport before use or immediately after installation on the gas pipe.

[0056] On the other hand, in the third position shown in Figure 2, the predetermined pressure indicator 380 and the high-pressure indicator 360 are moving in the second direction. More specifically, the high-pressure indicator 360 moves in the second direction along with the movement of the rod 340. The predetermined pressure indicator 380 is then biased by the predetermined pressure indicator spring 382 and displaces in the second direction together with the high-pressure indicator 360. The amount of movement of the predetermined pressure indicator 380 and the high-pressure indicator 360 in the second direction changes according to the pressure fluctuations in the diaphragm chamber 110. However, under normal gas usage conditions, the predetermined pressure locking portion 381 is generally in a position where it engages with the fixing member locking portion 391.

[0057] Therefore, as shown in Figure 5, the low-pressure indicator 392 fits into the through-hole 383 of the predetermined-pressure indicator 380. As a result, the yellow-colored low-pressure indicator 392 becomes less conspicuous. In the black and white displays of Figures 4 to 6, the predetermined-pressure indicator 380 and the high-pressure indicator 363 have different brightness levels, but in reality, the predetermined-pressure indicator 380 and the high-pressure indicator 363 are colored in the same gray as the valve cover 300. Therefore, the user can intuitively see that the fluid on-off valve 1 is in a steady state. The third position is when the fluid on-off valve 1 is open and gas can be used steadily.

[0058] When the pressure in the diaphragm chamber 110 rises abnormally to the second position shown in Figure 3, the high-pressure indicator 360 moves further in the second direction due to the displacement of the rod 340. On the other hand, the predetermined pressure indicator 380 is restricted from moving in the second direction by the fixed member 390 because the predetermined pressure locking part 381 is engaged with the fixed member locking part 391. As a result, as shown in Figure 6, the user perceives the high-pressure indicator 360 as protruding from the predetermined pressure indicator 380. As mentioned above, the high-pressure indicator plate 363 is colored gray, but the high-pressure indicator 360 is colored red. Therefore, in the second position, the cylindrical part of the red-colored high-pressure indicator 360 protrudes from the predetermined pressure indicator 380, making it easy to attract the user's attention. This allows the user to intuitively understand that the fluid on-off valve 1 has been displaced in the second direction. The second position is the state in which the fluid on-off valve 1 is in an abnormal state and is closed.

[0059] The above is a preferred example of this disclosure, but there are various embodiments of this disclosure. In the examples in Figures 4 to 6, the low-voltage indicator 392 has four pins, but as shown in Figure 7, it may also have three pins. The number of low-voltage indicators 392 is not limited to three or four and can be set as appropriate. It may even have just one. However, having multiple indicators improves visibility for the user. When there are multiple low-voltage indicators 392, it is best to arrange them so that they are point-symmetric with respect to the central axis of the diaphragm 310 for better balance.

[0060] The shape of the low-voltage indicator 392 is preferably a cylindrical pin, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, to improve visibility. However, the shape of the low-voltage indicator 392 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. Other shapes such as a rectangular prism are also acceptable. Furthermore, the through-hole 383 in the predetermined-pressure indicator 380 does not necessarily have to be a hole, as long as the low-voltage indicator 392 can pass through it. A groove shape is also possible.

[0061] It is desirable to color the low-pressure indicator 392 yellow and the high-pressure indicator 360 red (excluding the high-pressure indicator board 363) so that the user can intuitively see the status of the fluid on / off valve 1. However, the coloring is not limited to yellow or red; other colors may also be used. Furthermore, if necessary, the colors of the low-pressure indicator 392 and the high-pressure indicator 360 can be the same as the color of the predetermined pressure indicator 380.

[0062] In the example described above, a diaphragm biasing spring 370 was placed inside the constant pressure chamber 320. This is desirable as it stabilizes the behavior of the diaphragm 310. However, the diaphragm 310 only needs to be displaced by the pressure difference between the pressure inside the diaphragm chamber 110 and the pressure inside the constant pressure chamber 320, and the diaphragm biasing spring 370 is not necessarily required. As shown in Figure 8, it is also possible to eliminate the diaphragm biasing spring 370. Note that Figure 8 shows the third position of the fluid on / off valve 1.

[0063] In the above-described embodiment, the cam structure 400 and the rod 340 were separate components, but they may be formed as a single unit. If they are formed as a single unit, the rod 340 can also be eliminated. In that case, the cam structure 400 will be directly fixed to the diaphragm 310. If the rod 340 is eliminated, the support surface 150 will serve as a cam guide for the cam structure 400.

[0064] In the example described above, the valve body mechanism 550 is composed of a cam structure 400 and a valve body member 500, but other valve body mechanisms can of course be used. For example, a magnet 800 may be used to close the valve when the diaphragm 310 is in a first position (as shown in Figure 9) and to open the valve when it is in a third position (as shown in Figure 10). Then, when the diaphragm 310 moves to a second position, the magnet 800 may be moved away, and the valve may be closed again (as shown in Figure 11). Note that Figures 9 to 11 illustrate the outline of the valve body mechanism 550, and descriptions of the predetermined pressure indicator 380 and other components of this disclosure have been omitted.

[0065] In other words, since Figures 9 to 11 do not include the high-pressure indicator 360, predetermined-pressure indicator 380, and low-pressure indicator 392 of this disclosure, the user can only recognize the change in the position of the cap 810. Therefore, it is not possible to intuitively understand whether the diaphragm 310 is in the third position and the fluid valve 1 is in a normally open state, or whether the diaphragm 310 is in the second position and the fluid valve 1 is in an abnormally closed state.

[0066] In the above-described embodiment, the fluid on-off valve 1 included an outlet pipe 200, a flow control valve 600, and a fluid switching valve 700. The outlet pipe 200 is useful because it can change the routing direction of the gas piping. The flow control valve 600 is useful because it can limit the gas flow rate to a certain amount. The fluid switching valve 700 is also useful because it can shut off the gas flow. However, these functions are not essential to the fluid on-off valve 1 of this disclosure and can be omitted as needed.

[0067] In the embodiments described above, polyacetal POM and nylon were given as examples of resin materials, but other materials may be used. Furthermore, metals such as zinc, iron, or aluminum alloys may be used instead of resin materials. Also, the dimensions shown in the embodiments above are examples, and other sizes are certainly possible.

[0068] The above-described embodiment shows an example in which gas is used as the fluid. The method of opening and closing the inlet passage 120 by contacting and disengaging the valve seat 130 in accordance with the gas pressure is a desirable application. However, the fluid valve of this disclosure can also be used as a valve for other gases, and it can also be used as a valve for liquids. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0069] 1. Fluid control valve 100... Valve body 110...Diaphragm Chamber 120...Inflow passage 140...Outflow passage 300... Valve cover 310...Diaphragm 360... High-voltage display unit 380...Prescribed pressure display section 390... Fixing components 392...Low-voltage display section 400... Cam structure 500... Valve body component

Claims

1. A valve body comprising a diaphragm chamber, an inlet passage for introducing fluid into the diaphragm chamber, and an outlet passage for introducing fluid from the diaphragm chamber, A valve cover is positioned between the diaphragm chamber and a roughly circular diaphragm, forming a constant-pressure chamber whose interior is maintained at atmospheric pressure via an atmospheric communication port. A valve mechanism is disposed in the diaphragm chamber and is movable in a first direction, which is the direction of displacement of the diaphragm toward the diaphragm chamber, and in a second direction, which is the direction of displacement of the diaphragm toward the constant pressure chamber, and when the diaphragm is at a first position, which is the end in the first direction, and at a second position, which is the end in the second direction, it blocks the inlet passage and the outlet passage, and when it is at a third position, which is an intermediate part between the first and second directions, it connects the inlet passage and the outlet passage. A high-pressure indicator unit is provided which is movable in a first direction and a second direction relative to the atmospheric communication port of the valve cover and which is displaced from the first position to the second position of the diaphragm, A predetermined pressure indicator is provided which is movable in a first direction and a second direction relative to the atmospheric communication port of the valve cover and which is displaced from a first position to a third position of the diaphragm, A fixing member having a low-pressure indicator which is fixedly positioned at the atmospheric communication port of the valve cover, and which is exposed in the second direction from the predetermined pressure indicator when the diaphragm is in the first position, and is covered by the predetermined pressure indicator when the diaphragm is in the third position, A fluid on / off valve characterized by having the following features.

2. The predetermined pressure indicator section has a through hole, and the low pressure indicator section is positioned to pass through this through hole. When the diaphragm is in the first position, the low pressure indicator section protrudes from the through hole, and when the diaphragm is in the third position, the low pressure indicator section is embedded in the through hole. The fluid on / off valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a fluid on / off valve.

3. The low-voltage indicator and the through-hole are arranged in multiple positions that are approximately point-symmetrical with respect to the central axis of the diaphragm. The fluid on / off valve according to claim 2, characterized in that it is a fluid on / off valve.

4. The fixing member is provided with a locking mechanism that allows movement of the predetermined pressure display unit from the first position to the third position in the first and second directions, and prevents movement of the predetermined pressure display unit from the third position to the second position in the second direction. The fluid on / off valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a fluid on / off valve.

5. The predetermined pressure indicator unit is further provided with a predetermined pressure indicator unit spring that biases the predetermined pressure indicator unit in the second direction. The fluid on / off valve according to claim 4.

6. The system further comprises a diaphragm biasing spring that biases the diaphragm in the first direction. The fluid on / off valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a fluid on / off valve.

7. The high-voltage display unit, the predetermined-pressure display unit, and the low-pressure display unit are colored in different colors from each other. The fluid on / off valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a fluid on / off valve.

8. The valve mechanism comprises a cam structure that moves together with the diaphragm in the first and second directions, and a valve member that moves in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions and toward the diaphragm chamber from the valve seat formed in the inflow passage, and toward the diaphragm chamber in the inflow passage, and toward the valve seat in a fourth direction, thereby opening and closing the valve seat. The cam structure has a shape in which the first position and the second position are shifted in the third direction from the third position. The valve member comprises a valve body that contacts and disengages from the valve seat, and a valve rod that contacts the cam structure and transmits the movement of the cam structure in the first and second directions to the valve body in exchange for displacement in the third and fourth directions. The fluid on / off valve according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a fluid on / off valve.

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