Tube

Abstract

The object of this invention is to provide a tube that has retaining force and is easily compressible. This disclosure provides a tube into which an insert can be inserted. The tube includes a plurality of protrusions configured to project from and be inclined relative to an inner wall surface of the tube.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a tube. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, to identify cables such as fiber optic cables and electrical cables, tubes with text, graphics, symbols, or colors printed on their outer surface were prepared, and the cable was inserted into the tube to attach the tube to the cable. This allowed for cable identification and prevention of incorrect wiring.

[0003] However, the problem is that when the outer diameter of the cable is too large relative to the inner diameter of the tube, it is difficult to insert the cable into the tube, while when the outer diameter of the cable is too small compared to the inner diameter of the tube, the tube and cable are not properly secured and are prone to rotation or slippage.

[0004] To address this problem, Patent Document 1 discloses a tube in which a contact protrudes from the inner wall surface, which bends and contacts the cable when compressed.

[0005] Patent document 2 discloses a tube in which multiple ribs protrude from the inner wall surface toward the center so as to reliably fix the cable even when the outer diameter of the cable changes.

[0006] Patent document 3 discloses a tube in which multiple parallel ribs protruding from the inner wall surface are provided.

[0007] Reference List

[0008] Patent documents

[0009] Patent Document 1: Microfilm of JPS60-192287U

[0010] Patent Document 2: JPH8-148039A

[0011] Patent Document 3: JP2015-096003A

[0012] However, when only a protrusion such as a contact or rib protruding from the inner wall surface is provided, the problem of the tube easily rotating or slipping cannot be solved because the tube cannot be held in the cable with sufficient force.

[0013] On the other hand, compared to a case with only one protrusion, a conventional tube with multiple protrusions on its inner wall surface improves cable retention. However, when printing text on the outer surface of the tube, printing omissions, such as rubbing and misalignment of text, and white streaks may occur. That is, when printing text on the outer surface of the tube, the tube is squeezed between the impression roller and the heating head. However, because multiple protrusions are provided on the inner wall surface of the tube, depending on the direction of compression, the tube is not flattened (but becomes uneven), and there may be areas that the heating head cannot reach, potentially leading to poor printing performance. Summary of the Invention

[0014] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a tube that has holding force and is easy to be squeezed.

[0015] This disclosure provides a tube into which an insert can be inserted. The tube includes a plurality of protrusions configured to project from and be inclined relative to an inner wall surface of the tube.

[0016] This disclosure provides another type of tube into which an insert can be inserted. The tube includes: a first protrusion projecting from and inclined relative to an inner wall surface of the tube; and a second protrusion projecting from and inclined relative to the inner wall surface of the tube, and not parallel to the first protrusion. When the insert is inserted into the tube, the first and second protrusions are configured to clamp the insert between them and to compress the insert in a direction toward the inner wall surface. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the printer.

[0018] Figure 2A This is a cross-sectional view of the tube according to the first embodiment, taken in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction with the cable inserted.

[0019] Figure 2B This is a perspective view of the tube according to the first embodiment in the state where the cable is not inserted.

[0020] Figures 3A to 3C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of the tube being squeezed.

[0021] Figure 4A This is a cross-sectional view of the tube according to the second embodiment, taken in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction with the cable inserted.

[0022] Figure 4BThis is a perspective view of the tube according to the second embodiment in the state where the cable is not inserted.

[0023] Figures 5A to 5C This is a cross-sectional view of the tube according to the third embodiment.

[0024] Figures 6A to 6D It is based on a cross-sectional view of a modified tube. Detailed Implementation

[0025] In the following description, embodiments of the invention will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are merely examples for illustrating the invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0026] First, an example of a printer according to this embodiment that is capable of printing text, graphics, colors, or symbols (hereinafter referred to as "text, etc.") on the outer peripheral surface of a tube will be described.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of this printer 100.

[0028] The printer 100 includes a housing 106, within which a display unit 102 and an operation unit 104 are disposed. A tube can be disposed inside the housing 106 as a printing medium. Note that a tape or other long media can be selectively disposed inside the housing 106 as another printing medium.

[0029] The display unit 102 includes a screen such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and displays text input by the operation unit 104. The operation unit 104 consists of a keyboard with multiple operation buttons. The operation unit 104 inputs text, numbers, and codes onto the printing medium and performs various operations on the printer 100.

[0030] The housing 106 also includes a cover 108, which opens and closes when the ink cartridge 110 and printing media are attached. Note that... Figure 1 The lid 108 is shown in the open position.

[0031] The printer 100, as a printing mechanism for printing on printing media, includes: a cartridge holder 120 in which the printing media, such as a tube, is selectively disposed; and a ribbon holder 121 in which an ink ribbon cartridge 110 is disposed. The cartridge holder 120 and the ribbon holder 121 may be integrally molded products made of resin or the like. The cartridge holder 120 is configured such that when the printing media is a tube having a predetermined inner diameter or smaller, a guide accessory for guiding the tube to a desired position can be installed.

[0032] The printer 100 also includes an impression roller 122 and a heat head 123, the impression roller 122 conveying long printing media (such as a tube disposed in a cartridge holder 120 or a tape released from a tape cassette), and the heat head 123 printing on printing media such as the tube conveyed by the impression roller 122.

[0033] The impression roller 122 conveys printing media, such as tubes, by being rotated by a motor (not shown). The ink ribbon of the ink ribbon cartridge 110 is configured to be fed synchronously with the impression roller 122 by using the same motor. The printing media, such as tubes, conveyed by the impression roller 122 are arranged in the gap between the impression roller 122 and the ink ribbon.

[0034] The printer 100 includes a head moving mechanism 130, which performs operations to move the heating head 123 in a direction approaching the impression roller 122 and in a direction away from the impression roller 122. When the heating head 123 moves in the direction approaching the impression roller 122 via the head moving mechanism 130 and presses the impression roller 122, printing media such as ink ribbons and tubes are sandwiched between the heating head 123 and the impression roller 122, and the heat from the heating head 123 causes the ink from the ink ribbon to be transferred to the outer peripheral surface of the tube. In this way, ink can be printed on the outer peripheral surface of the tube. At this time, since the tubular tube is flattened, ink can be appropriately transferred to the outer peripheral surface. By performing such approach and separation operations, desired text can be printed on the outer peripheral surface of the tube.

[0035] Printer 100 may also include a tube heater 129 that heats the tube to prevent it from being rubbed during printing. Additionally, a slitting mechanism (not shown) for slitting printing media such as tubes may be provided downstream of the heating head 123. The tube, temporarily flattened during printing, elastically returns to its tubular shape and is ejected from the printer with its outer peripheral surface printed. When the tube is slid and has a cut, it can be easily cut to the desired length. It can be distinguished from other inserts by inserting cables, wires, or other inserts, such as fiber optic cables, into such tubes and by inserting the cables, wires, or other inserts through the tube.

[0036] The structure of a tube in which printing can be performed on the outer peripheral surface by this printer 100 will be described. Note that text information, etc., can be printed on the tube by a printer with a different structure than printer 100.

[0037] [First Embodiment]

[0038] In the following text, the tube 10 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 2AThis is a cross-sectional view of pipe 10 taken perpendicular to its extension direction, in which cable CA (an example of an "insert") is inserted. Figure 2B This is a perspective view of tube 10 without cable CA inserted. Figure 3A This is a cross-sectional view of the tube 10 in the above-described state, taken along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube 10.

[0039] Note that the inserts can be fiber optic cables, electrical cables, wires, or any other long objects. During use, text information or other identification information is printed on the outer peripheral surface of the tube 10. Therefore, by inserting these inserts through the tube 10, they can be distinguished from other inserts.

[0040] like Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the tube 10 includes an elongated tubular body portion 12 and three protrusions, namely a first protrusion 14A, a second protrusion 14B, and a third protrusion 14C (hereinafter, the first protrusion 14A, the second protrusion 14B, and the third protrusion 14C are collectively referred to as "protrusion 14"). These three protrusions are integrally formed with the body portion 12 and protrude from the inner wall surface 12A of the body portion 12. Since the tube 10 is made of a synthetic resin such as polyvinyl chloride, both the body portion 12 and the protrusions 14 are flexible.

[0041] In this embodiment, the main body 12 is formed with the central axis AX ( Figure 2B The body 12 is a cylinder with its axis as the center. Therefore, in a cross-section perpendicular to the extending direction of the tube 10, the body portion 12 has an annular shape, and both the inner wall surface 12A and the outer peripheral surface 12B have a circular shape. Figure 3A ).

[0042] In this embodiment, the three protrusions 14 are configured to protrude from the inner wall surface 12A of the body portion 12.

[0043] The first protrusion 14A includes: a front end portion 14A1, which contacts the outer peripheral surface of the cable CA when the cable CA is inserted; and a base end portion 14A2, which connects the front end portion 14A1 to the inner wall surface 12A of the body portion 12. Furthermore, the first protrusion 14A is configured to extend in an axial direction substantially parallel to the central axis AX of the body portion 12.

[0044] The first protrusion 14A is configured to be inclined toward a first portion 12A1 of the inner wall surface 12A connecting the first protrusion 14A and the second protrusion 14B, such that the first protrusion 14A has an angle θ1 relative to the straight line L1 (the connection portion between the base end portion 14A2 of the first protrusion 14A and the inner wall surface 12A) of the connecting body portion 12 center C1. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first protrusion 14A is configured to be curved in an arc shape that gradually separates from the inner wall surface 12A from the base end portion 14A2 to the front end portion 14A1. Therefore, the distance between the first protrusion 14A and the first portion 12A1 is greatest at the end of the front end portion 14A1.

[0045] Similarly, in Figure 2B and Figure 3A In the cross-section, the front end portion 14A1 of the first protrusion 14A is provided to have a thickness of at least a predetermined thickness (an example of "first thickness") or greater, and the base end portion 14A2 is provided to include at least a thin-walled portion (sometimes referred to as a "weakened portion") with a thickness less than the predetermined thickness. Therefore, when a force in the outer diameter direction is applied to the front end portion 14A1, the base end portion 14A2 is prone to deformation in the outer diameter direction.

[0046] The thickness of the front end portion (“first thickness”) is greater than the thickness of the base end portion. The thickness of the front end portion (“first thickness”) is greater than the thickness of the weakened portion.

[0047] The length from the inner wall surface to the weakened part can be shorter than the length from the weakened part to the front end.

[0048] In this embodiment, the second protrusion 14B and the third protrusion 14C are arranged symmetrically with respect to the first protrusion 14A at a rotational angle of 120 degrees with respect to the center C1 of the body portion 12. That is, the second protrusion 14B has a front end portion 14B1 and a base end portion 14B2, and the second protrusion 14B is arranged to be inclined toward the second portion 12A2 of the inner wall surface 12A connecting the second protrusion 14B and the third protrusion 14C. The third protrusion 14C has a front end portion 14C1 and a base end portion 14C2, and the third protrusion 14C is arranged to be inclined toward the third portion 12A3 of the inner wall surface 12A connecting the third protrusion 14C and the first protrusion 14A. Since the second protrusion 14B and the third protrusion 14C have the same structure as the first protrusion 14A, a detailed description of them will be omitted. Note that the center C1 of the body portion 12 in cross-section ( Figure 2A ) exists on the central axis AX of the main body 12 Figure 2B )superior.

[0049] Due to this configuration, the first protrusion 14A, the second protrusion 14B, and the third protrusion 14C are arranged non-parallel to each other to form an angle of approximately 120 degrees to each other in the cross-section and are arranged to be inclined in the same direction along the circumferential direction.

[0050] By providing three protrusions 14 in this manner with 120-degree rotational symmetry, the cable CA can be supported from three directions through each of the three front ends 14A1 to 14C1 when it is inserted through the tube 10. Figure 2A As shown, the front ends 14A1 to 14C1 of each protrusion 14 deform outwards due to the insertion of the cable CA, and respectively compress the cable CA towards the center C1 from three directions. As a result, the tube 10 can apply a large holding force to the cable CA. However, as will be described later, only two protrusions 14 may be provided, or four or more protrusions 14 may be provided. Furthermore, the protrusions 14 do not necessarily have to be arranged in a rotationally symmetrical manner.

[0051] Furthermore, since each of the base ends 14A2 to 14C2 of the protrusion 14 has a thin-walled portion with a thickness less than that of each of the front ends 14A1 to 14C1, each base end is easily deformed when the cable CA is inserted into the tube 10. Therefore, the cable CA can be easily inserted into the tube 10. Moreover, since the protrusion 14 is configured in an arc shape that gradually separates from the inner wall surface 12A from the base ends 14A2 to 14C2 to the front ends 14A1 to 14C1, when the cable CA is inserted into the tube 10, the cable CA typically contacts the area near the front ends 14A1 to 14C1 closer to the center C1. As a result, a large torque is applied to each of the base ends 14A2 to 14C2, allowing them to deform easily. This also facilitates the insertion of the cable CA into the tube 10. Furthermore, since the protrusion 14 is tilted in the same direction along the circumferential direction, it can also prevent the protrusion 14 from interfering with the insertion of the cable CA into the tube 10.

[0052] Furthermore, since the tube 10 has a structure that allows it to be easily compressed from any direction, it can be properly printed on the outer peripheral surface 12B during printing. The effect of the tube 10 according to this embodiment, which allows it to be easily compressed from any direction, will be described below.

[0053] The inventors of this application discovered that in order to apply a large holding force to the cable CA, it is necessary to provide two or more protrusions on the tube. However, when two or more protrusions are provided, depending on the structure of the protrusions, the print quality on the outer peripheral surface of the tube may deteriorate, and print omissions may occur. As a result of further research, the inventors have discovered that when the tube is clamped between the impression roller and the heating head for printing, depending on the tube's orientation, the protrusions may hinder the tube from being compressed. For example, assuming two parallel protrusions are positioned facing each other towards the center of the tube, when a force parallel to the protruding direction of the protrusions is applied to compress the tube, it is difficult to flatten the tube because the protrusions protrude in the same direction, thus hindering the tube from being compressed. Furthermore, even if the tube can be compressed, a protrusion may bend multiple times, resulting in a large undulation and unevenness on the outer peripheral surface of the tube when fully compressed. In this case, print quality deteriorates because it is difficult to properly compress the ink band squeezed by the heating head against the outer peripheral surface of the tube. On the other hand, when a force perpendicular to the protruding direction of the protrusion is applied to squeeze the tube, the protrusion does not obstruct the squeezing of the tube, thus making it easy to squeeze the tube. However, since users do not always position the tube in the printer 100 in a direction where the tube is easily squeezed, in some cases the protrusion may obstruct the tube from being squeezed, and in addition, it may be difficult to perform proper printing.

[0054] On the other hand, although the tube 10 according to this embodiment includes up to three protrusions 14, the deviation in the extrusion difficulty depending on the direction is very small compared with the tube according to the prior art described above. Figures 3A to 3C This is a schematic diagram showing the process of the tube 10 being squeezed. Figure 3A This shows the state of tube 10 before it was squeezed. Figure 3C The diagram shows the state of tube 10 being compressed, and Figure 3B This shows the state of being squeezed in the middle. For example... Figure 3A As shown, the plurality of protrusions 14 of the tube 10 are arranged to be inclined in a direction close to the inner wall surface 12A without being inclined toward the center C1 of the body portion 12. Therefore, any straight line passing through the center C1 of the body portion 12 does not completely coincide with the extending direction of the protrusion 14. Therefore, the deviation in the compression difficulty depending on the direction is small, and the protrusions 14 do not significantly hinder the compression of the tube 10.

[0055] Furthermore, the protrusions 14 are configured to be non-parallel to each other. Therefore, the protrusions extend in nearly the same direction, thus suppressing the detrimental effect of the protrusions hindering the compression of the tube when it is compressed in that direction. This configuration also reduces the variation in compression difficulty depending on the direction.

[0056] Furthermore, the protrusion 14 is inclined in the same direction along the circumferential direction. Therefore, unlike the prior art, the problem that can be suppressed is that a protrusion bends multiple times, and as a result, the outer peripheral surface 12B produces large undulations and unevenness during full compression.

[0057] The following will describe suitable numerical ranges for the construction of the protrusion 14 of the tube 10. Through prototyping and experimentation with protrusions of various shapes, the inventors of this application have concluded that each numerical range described below is suitable.

[0058] First, the length of the protrusion 14 is preferably less than 65% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A. Before being compressed... Figure 3A In the current state, the distance from the base end 14A2 of the first protrusion 14A to the base end 14B2 of the second protrusion 14B (the base end 14B2 of the second protrusion 14B is approximately 120 degrees away from the base end 14A2) is approximately 85% of the inner diameter (half the square root of 3 obtained from the base of an isosceles triangle with apex C1, base end 14A2, and base end 14B2, where the radius of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A is equal to the two sides). If the length of the protrusion is set to approximately 85% of the inner diameter, even in the state before compression, the protrusion may come into contact with adjacent protrusions due to manufacturing errors, and the protrusion may collide with adjacent protrusions during compression. When a protrusion collides with an adjacent protrusion during compression, it may hinder the compression of the tube. Furthermore, when a protrusion bends due to collisions with adjacent protrusions, it may bend multiple times. As a result, the outer peripheral surface may become uneven when compressed, making proper printing difficult. However, when the length of protrusion 14 is set to 65% or less of the inner diameter, the aforementioned problems can be suppressed.

[0059] On the other hand, correspondingly, the length of the protrusion 14 is preferably more than 35% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A. When the length of the protrusion 14 is set to 35%, and the outer diameter of the cable CA is half the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A, the three sides of the triangle in the case where the position where the base end 14A2 of the first protrusion 14A contacts the inner wall surface 12A is a vertex (hereinafter referred to as "vertex A"), the position near the end of the front end 14A1 that contacts the cable CA is a vertex (hereinafter referred to as "vertex B"), and the center C1 is a vertex (hereinafter referred to as "vertex C") are respectively defined such that the length between vertex A and vertex B is 35% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A, the length between vertex B and vertex C is 25% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A, and the length between vertex C and vertex A is 50% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A (between vertex C and vertex A). Therefore, the vertex angle of vertex B is approximately 110 degrees, which is close to a right angle of 90 degrees. Therefore, the elastic force exerted on the cable CA by the first elastically deformed protrusion 14A can be appropriately directed towards the center C1. By providing multiple such protrusions 14, the cable CA can be stably supported, and a large holding force can be applied to the cable CA through its reaction force.

[0060] Furthermore, in a cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube 10, preferably, the thickness of the protrusions 14 is 8% or more and 30% or less of their length. For example, the first protrusion 14A can be formed such that the thickness of the front end portion 14A1 of the first protrusion 14A is 20% or more and 30% or less, and the thickness of the base end portion 14A2 is 8% or more and 20% or less. When the thickness of the protrusions 14 is too large relative to their length, the protrusions 14 are less likely to bend, and therefore, the tube 10 is less likely to be crushed. On the other hand, when the thickness of the protrusions 14 is too small relative to their length, the elastic force acting on the cable CA from the protrusions 14 is insufficient. Therefore, by forming the protrusions 14 with a thickness of 8% or more and 30% or less of their length, it is possible to provide a tube 10 that is easily crushed and exerts a large holding force on the cable CA.

[0061] Furthermore, in the cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube 10, preferably, the virtual inscribed circle C2 of the circumscribed protrusion 14 ( Figure 3A It has a diameter that is more than 25% and less than 50% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A.

[0062] When the protrusion 14 is formed such that the virtual inscribed circle C2 has a diameter that is 50% or less of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A, the protrusion 14 can apply elastic force to the cable CA whose diameter is greater than 50% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A. On the other hand, when the virtual inscribed circle C2 has a diameter that is 25% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A, the position where the base end 14A2 of the first protrusion 14A contacts the inner wall surface 12A is a vertex (hereinafter referred to as "vertex A", and the apex angle of vertex A is called "apex angle A"), the position near the end of the front end 14A1 that contacts the cable CA is a vertex (hereinafter referred to as "vertex B", and the apex angle of vertex B is called "apex angle B"), and the center C1 is a vertex (hereinafter referred to as "vertex C", and the apex angle of vertex C is called "apex angle C"), the two sides of the triangle are respectively defined such that the length between vertex B and vertex C is 12.5% ​​of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A, and the length between vertex C and vertex A is 50% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A (between vertex C and vertex A). When vertex B is a right angle, vertex A is approximately 15 degrees. As the apex angle A becomes less than 10 degrees, the tube approaches a structure where the protrusions protrude approximately vertically, thus hindering the compression of the tube and making it difficult to flatten it. Therefore, by forming the protrusions 14 such that the diameter of the imaginary inscribed circle C2 is more than 25% and less than 50% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A, a tube 10 can be provided that can support a cable CA with a diameter greater than 50% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface 12A and can be easily compressed.

[0063] With the above structure, the tube 10 according to this embodiment can provide a tube that has holding force and is easily crushed.

[0064] Note that the three protrusions 14 of the tube 10 are formed with rotational symmetry of 120 degrees about the center C1, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, in a vertical cross-section, the length of the first part 12A1 connecting the inner wall surface 12A of the first protrusion 14A and the second protrusion 14B, the length of the second part 12A2 connecting the inner wall surface 12A of the second protrusion 14B and the third protrusion 14C, and the length of the third part 12A3 connecting the inner wall surface 12A of the third protrusion 14C and the first protrusion 14A can be different from each other.

[0065] Furthermore, in the vertical cross-section, the thickness of the front end portion 14A1 of the first protrusion 14A, the thickness of the front end portion 14B1 of the second protrusion 14B, and the thickness of the front end portion 14C1 of the third protrusion 14C may be different from each other.

[0066] Furthermore, in the vertical cross-section, the lengths of the first protrusion 14A, the second protrusion 14B, and the third protrusion 14C can be different from each other.

[0067] Furthermore, the shape and structure of the thin-walled portion provided on the base end portion 14A2 of the first protrusion 14A can be changed. For example, a notch can be provided in the base end portion 14A2. In this case, when a notch is provided that opens toward the first portion 12A1 facing the inner wall surface 12A, the base end portion 14A2 of the first protrusion 14A can be easily bent toward the first portion 12A1. Similarly, when notches that open toward the inner wall surface 12A are provided in the base end portion 14B2 of the second protrusion 14B and the base end portion 14C2 of the third protrusion 14C, the base end portions 14B2 of the second protrusion 14B and the base end portion 14C2 of the third protrusion 14C can be easily bent toward the inner wall surface 12A.

[0068] Furthermore, the diameter of tube 10 can be appropriately designed according to the diameter of the cable CA to be inserted. For example, the inner diameter of tube 10 can be, for example, 2mm, 2.7mm, 3.2mm, 3.7mm, 6.4mm or 8mm.

[0069] [Second Embodiment]

[0070] In the following description, the tube 20 according to the second embodiment will be described. The tube 20 according to this embodiment differs from the tube 10 having three protrusions in that it has two protrusions. However, those skilled in the art will understand that components having the same construction as the tube 10 according to the first embodiment are referred to by the same name, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0071] Figure 4A It is a cross-sectional view of the tube 20 with the cable CA inserted, taken along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube 20. Figure 4B This is a perspective view of tube 20 without cable CA inserted.

[0072] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the tube 20 includes an elongated tubular body portion 22 and two protrusions, namely a first protrusion 24A and a second protrusion 24B (hereinafter collectively referred to as "protrusion 24"), which are integrally formed with the body portion 22 and protrude from the inner wall surface 22A of the body portion 22.

[0073] The first protrusion 24A is configured to be inclined toward the first portion 22A1 of the inner wall surface 22A connecting the first protrusion 24A and the second protrusion 24B, such that the first protrusion 24A has an angle θ2 relative to the straight line L1 (the connection portion between the base end 24A2 of the first protrusion 24A and the inner wall surface 22A) of the connecting body portion 22 and the inner wall surface 22A. Figure 4AIn this configuration, since the first protrusion 24A and the second protrusion 24B sandwich the cable CA, they are enlarged to form an angle θ2, which is greater than the angle when the cable CA is not inserted. Similarly, the second protrusion 24B is configured to tilt toward the second portion 22A2 of the inner wall surface 22A connecting the second protrusion 24B and the first protrusion 24A, such that the second protrusion 24B has an angle θ2 relative to the straight line L1.

[0074] Since the body portion 22 may have the same or similar structure as the body portion 12, the description of the body portion 22 will be omitted. In addition, the first protrusion 24A and the second protrusion 24B respectively include a front end portion 24A1 and a base end portion 24A2 and a front end portion 24B1 and a base end portion 24B2, as is the case with the first protrusion 14A, etc.

[0075] Similar to the first embodiment, the thickness of the front end portion ("first thickness") can be greater than the thickness of the base end portion. The thickness of the front end portion ("first thickness") can be greater than the thickness of the weakened portion.

[0076] Similar to the first embodiment, the length from the inner wall surface to the weakened portion can be shorter than the length from the weakened portion to the front end.

[0077] In this embodiment, the first protrusion 24A and the second protrusion 24B are arranged in a 180-degree rotational symmetry with respect to the center C1 of the body portion 22. With this configuration, when the cable CA is inserted through the tube 20, the cable CA can be supported from two directions by each of the two front ends 24A1 and 24B1. Figure 4A As shown, the front ends 24A1 and 24B1 of each protrusion 24 deform outwards due to the insertion of the cable CA. Therefore, the front ends 24A1 and 24B1, due to their elasticity, squeeze the cable CA from both directions toward the center C1. As a result, the tube 20 can apply a large holding force to the cable CA.

[0078] The plurality of protrusions 24 of the tube 20 are arranged to be inclined in a direction close to the inner wall surface 22A without toward the center C1 of the body portion 22. Therefore, any straight line passing through the center C1 of the body portion 22 does not completely coincide with the extending direction of the protrusion 24. Thus, the deviation in the compression difficulty depending on the direction is small, and the protrusions 24 do not significantly hinder the compression of the tube 20.

[0079] Since the protrusion 24 is inclined in the same direction along the circumferential direction, the problem of multiple bending of a protrusion can be suppressed, and as a result, the outer peripheral surface 22B produces large undulations and is not flat when fully compressed, unlike the prior art.

[0080] Based on the above structure, the tube 20 according to this embodiment can provide a tube that has holding force and is easily crushed.

[0081] Regarding the construction of tube 20, since the operation effect of tube 20 is similar to that of tube 10, it will be the same as that in the first embodiment, so the description of the operation effect of tube 20 will be omitted.

[0082] [Third Embodiment]

[0083] In the following text, the tube 30 according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C These are cross-sectional views of pipes 30, 40, and 50 taken along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of pipes 30, 40, and 50, respectively.

[0084] The common feature of the tubes according to this embodiment is that the tube includes two protrusions projecting in a direction inclined relative to the inner wall surface. Furthermore, the two protrusions are arranged not to be parallel to each other. The common feature of the two protrusions is that when an insert, such as a cable, is inserted, the protrusions clamp the insert in the middle and compress the insert in a direction toward the inner wall surface. The construction of each tube will be described below. Note that constructions identical or similar to those of tubes according to other embodiments and components that can be understood by those skilled in the art are referred to by the same names, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0085] like Figure 5A As shown, the tube 30 includes a long tubular body portion 32 and two protrusions, namely a first protrusion 34A and a second protrusion 34B, which are integrally formed with the body portion 32 and protrude from the inner wall surface 32A of the body portion 32.

[0086] The body portion 32 has a generally quadrilateral tubular shape in cross-section. Therefore, the inner wall surface 32A and the outer peripheral surface 32B each have four parts that are generally perpendicular to each other, and form a generally quadrilateral with rounded corners in the vertical cross-section.

[0087] The first protrusion 34A is set to be inclined from the first part 32A1, which is one of the four parts of the inner wall surface 32A, such that the first protrusion 34A has an angle θ3 relative to the straight line L1 (the connecting part between the first protrusion 34A and the first part 32A1) connecting the center C1 of the body part 32 and the first part 32A1.

[0088] The second protrusion 34B is configured to be inclined from the same first part 32A1, such that the second protrusion 34B has an angle θ4 relative to the straight line L2 (the connecting part between the second protrusion 34B and the first part 32A1) connecting the center C1 of the body part 32 and the first part 32A1 (note that in this embodiment, the straight line L1 coincides with the straight line L2, and the angles θ3 and θ4 are the same value).

[0089] However, the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B are inclined in opposite directions along the circumferential direction and are configured such that the distance between them increases from the first part 32A1. As a result, the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B are configured not to be parallel to each other.

[0090] According to the tube 30 with this configuration, the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B are arranged to be inclined relative to the inner wall surface 32A, and any straight line passing through the center C1 of the body portion 32 does not completely coincide with the extending direction of the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B. Therefore, the deviation in the compression difficulty depending on the direction is small, and the first protrusion 34A or the second protrusion 34B does not significantly hinder the compression of the tube 30.

[0091] Furthermore, since the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B are configured such that the distance between them increases as they move away from the first portion 32A1, the cable CA (an example of a "generally tubular insert having a generally circular cross-section perpendicular to the insertion direction into the tube 30") can be clamped between the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B. At this time, the resultant force of the forces acting on the cable CA from the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B points towards the third portion 32A3 (not shown) facing the first portion 32A1 (pointing to the right of the paper). Therefore, the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B are configured to clamp the cable CA and to compress the cable CA in the direction toward the third portion 32A3. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the tube 30 can support the cable CA at three points: the first protrusion 34A, the second protrusion 34B, and the third portion 32A3. At this time, the first protrusion 34A contacts the first sector F1 with a central angle of 120 degrees on the outer periphery of the cable CA, the second protrusion 34B contacts the second sector F2 with a central angle of 120 degrees, and the third part 32A3 of the inner wall surface 32A contacts or faces the third sector F3 with a central angle of 120 degrees. Therefore, the tube 30 can stably support the cable CA, and due to its reaction force, it can exert a large holding force on the cable CA.

[0092] Furthermore, even when the cable CA has a small diameter, because the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B are configured such that the distance between them increases with distance from the first portion 32A1, the cable CA can still be supported between the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B. Note that the cable CA does not necessarily have to contact the third portion 32A3 of the inner wall surface 32A.

[0093] like Figure 5BAs shown, tube 40 includes an elongated tubular body portion 42 and two protrusions, namely a first protrusion 44A and a second protrusion 44B, which are integrally formed with the body portion 42 and protrude from the inner wall surface 42A of the body portion 42. Tube 40 differs from tube 30 in that the body portion 42 has a generally annular tubular shape in cross-section. Since other constructions are the same as or similar to those of tube 30, the same names are given and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0094] Even in the tube 40 with this configuration, because the first protrusion 44A and the second protrusion 44B can clamp the cable in the middle and compress the cable CA in the direction toward the inner wall surface 42A, the cable CA can also be supported at three points: the first protrusion 44A, the second protrusion 44B, and the inner wall surface 42A. At this time, the first protrusion 44A contacts the first sector F1 with a central angle of 120 degrees of the cross-section of the cable CA, the second protrusion 44B contacts the second sector F2 with a central angle of 120 degrees, and the inner wall surface 42A contacts or faces the third sector F3 with a central angle of 120 degrees. Therefore, the tube 40 can stably support the cable CA, and due to the reaction force of the cable CA, the tube 40 can apply a large holding force to the cable CA.

[0095] like Figure 5C As shown, the tube 50 includes a long tubular body portion 52 and two protrusions, namely a first protrusion 54A and a second protrusion 54B, which are integrally formed with the body portion 52 and protrude from the inner wall surface 52A of the body portion 52. The first protrusion 54A and the second protrusion 54B are not arranged with 180-degree rotational symmetry. However, even in this configuration, because the first protrusion 54A and the second protrusion 54B can clamp the cable CA in the middle and compress the cable CA in the direction toward the inner wall surface 52A, the cable CA can also be supported at three points: the first protrusion 54A, the second protrusion 54B, and the inner wall surface 52A. At this time, the first protrusion 54A contacts the first sector F1 with a central angle of 120 degrees of the cross-section of the cable CA, the second protrusion 54B contacts the second sector F2 with a central angle of 120 degrees, and the inner wall surface 52A contacts or faces the third sector F3 with a central angle of 120 degrees. Therefore, tube 50 can stably support cable CA, and due to the reaction force of cable CA, tube 50 can exert a large holding force on cable CA.

[0096] The operational effects of the parts of tubes 30, 40 and 50 that are similar to those of tubes 10 and the like according to other embodiments will be the same as in other embodiments, and therefore, their description will be omitted.

[0097] [Variation]

[0098] Figures 6A to 6DCross-sections of tubes 60 to 90 according to variations are shown. To the extent reasonably understood by those skilled in the art, these variations can be applied to tubes 10 to 50 according to each embodiment. Note that those skilled in the art will understand that components having the same construction as the tubes according to the various embodiments are referred to by the same names, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0099] like Figure 6A As shown, the tube 60 includes an elongated tubular body portion 62 and three protrusions, namely a first protrusion 64A, a second protrusion 64B, and a third protrusion 64C, which are integrally formed with the body portion 62 and protrude from the inner wall surface 62A of the body portion 62. Figure 6A As shown, each of the protrusions 64A to 64C is inclined relative to the inner wall surface 62A and protrudes linearly in the cross-section.

[0100] Furthermore, the front end portion 64A1 and the base end portion 64A2 of the first protrusion 64A are provided to have a constant thickness. However, in the middle region of the base end portion 64A2, a thin-walled portion 64A21 with reduced thickness (sometimes referred to as a "weakened portion") is provided.

[0101] Similarly, the second protrusion 64B is provided with a thin-walled portion 64B21 with reduced thickness, and the third protrusion 64C is provided with a thin-walled portion 64C21 with reduced thickness. Even with this structure, because of the thin-walled portions 64A21 to 64C21, the cable CA can be easily inserted into the tube 60.

[0102] Note that each protrusion can have both linear extensions and curved sections.

[0103] like Figure 6B As shown, the tube 70 includes an elongated tubular body portion 72 and three protrusions, namely a first protrusion 74A, a second protrusion 74B, and a third protrusion 74C, which are integrally formed with the body portion 72 and protrude from the inner wall surface 72A of the body portion 72. Figure 6B As shown, protrusions 74A to 74C have different thicknesses and lengths. However, as those skilled in the art will understand, such a configuration can also provide a tube with holding force and easy compression.

[0104] like Figure 6CAs shown, tube 80 includes an elongated tubular body portion 82 and three protrusions integrally formed with the body portion 82 and projecting from the inner wall surface 82A of the body portion 82, namely a first protrusion 84A, a second protrusion 84B, and a third protrusion 84C. The first protrusion 84A and the second protrusion 84B are inclined in opposite directions along the circumferential direction and are configured such that the distance between them increases with distance from the inner wall surface 82A. As a result, the first protrusion 84A and the second protrusion 84B are configured not to be parallel to each other. However, unlike tube 30, the first protrusion 84A and the second protrusion 84B are configured to bend in the direction away from each other, such that the rate of increase of the distance between the first protrusion 84A and the second protrusion 84B increases with distance from the inner wall surface 82A (on the other hand, the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B are configured to bend in the direction approaching each other, such that the rate of increase of the distance between the first protrusion 34A and the second protrusion 34B of tube 30 decreases with distance from the inner wall surface 32A). Therefore, when the first protrusion 84A and the second protrusion 84B clamp the cable between them, the force exerted by the first protrusion 84A and the second protrusion 84B on the cable pushing against the facing inner wall surface 82A can be increased. The third protrusion 84C supports this cable. Thus, the cable can be supported at three points. As those skilled in the art will understand, this configuration can also provide a tube with holding force and easy compression.

[0105] Note that, in addition to the third protrusion 84C, a configuration can be adopted in which the fourth protrusion adjacent to the third protrusion 84C is arranged to be inclined in the opposite direction to the third protrusion 84C, and the tube is supported at four points.

[0106] like Figure 6D As shown, the tube 90 is characterized by the construction of its body portion 92. Unlike other embodiments, the thickness of the tubular body portion 92 is not constant in the circumferential direction. That is, the body portion 92 has a thin-walled portion 92A1 with decreasing thickness and a thick-walled portion 92A2 with increasing thickness, and a first protrusion 94A is provided to protrude at the boundary between the thin-walled portion 92A1 and the thick-walled portion 92A2. As a result, the first protrusion 94A is connected to the thin-walled portion 92A1 in a predetermined circumferential direction (counterclockwise direction on the paper) and to the thick-walled portion 92A2 in the opposite direction (clockwise direction on the paper). With this structure, the first protrusion 94A can be easily bent toward the thin-walled portion 92A1.

[0107] Similarly, the second protrusion 94B is connected to the thin-walled portion 92B1 in a predetermined circumferential direction (counterclockwise on the paper) and to the thick-walled portion 92B2 in the opposite direction (clockwise on the paper). The third protrusion 94C is connected to the thin-walled portion 92C1 in a predetermined circumferential direction (counterclockwise on the paper) and to the thick-walled portion 92C2 in the opposite direction (clockwise on the paper). Furthermore, as in other embodiments, the first protrusion 94A is inclined toward the portion of the inner wall surface 92A connecting the first protrusion 94A and the second protrusion 94B, the second protrusion 94B is inclined toward the portion of the inner wall surface 92A connecting the second protrusion 94B and the third protrusion 94C, and the third protrusion 94C is inclined toward the portion of the inner wall surface 92A connecting the third protrusion 94C and the first protrusion 94A.

[0108] Even with this structure, a tube that allows for easy insertion of the cable CA and is easily compressed can be provided. Furthermore, by providing the thick-walled portion 92A2, the elasticity towards the cable CA is increased, thereby allowing for the application of a large holding force. However, it is not always necessary to provide the thick-walled portion 92A2. Additionally, when the thin-walled portion 92A1 is provided, the first protrusion 94A can be easily bent, but the shape and thickness of the thin-walled portion 92A1 can be appropriately set according to the application. Furthermore, the first protrusion 94A can be set to be inclined in the opposite direction; that is, the first protrusion 94A can be set to be inclined towards the portion of the inner wall surface 92A connecting the first protrusion 94A and the third protrusion 94C. Additionally, the thickness and length of the first protrusion 94A can be varied.

[0109] With the above-described construction, these tubes can be provided to have retaining force and be easily compressed. Note that these tubes can be manufactured, for example, by extrusion molding using a die.

[0110] Furthermore, the present invention can be modified in various ways as long as it does not depart from its essential points. For example, within the normal inventive capacity of those skilled in the art, some components of one embodiment can be added to other embodiments. Additionally, some components of one embodiment can be replaced with corresponding components in other embodiments.

[0111] [Postscript]

[0112] This application discloses at least the following inventions (1) to (17).

[0113] (1) A tube into which an insert is inserted, the tube including a plurality of protrusions configured to protrude from an inner wall surface of the tube and be inclined relative to the inner wall surface.

[0114] (2) The tube according to (1), wherein each of the plurality of protrusions is arranged to be non-parallel to each other.

[0115] Non-parallelism refers to a state in which one protrusion is significantly non-parallel to another. When non-parallel, the distance between one protrusion and the other varies significantly depending on the position on the protrusion.

[0116] (3) The tube according to (1) or (2), wherein each of the plurality of protrusions is inclined in the same direction along the circumferential direction of the tube.

[0117] (4) The tube according to (1) or (2), wherein at least one of the plurality of protrusions is arranged in an arc shape that gradually separates from the inner wall surface from the base end to the front end.

[0118] (5) The tube according to any one of (1) to (4),

[0119] The first of the plurality of protrusions is inclined toward a first portion of the inner wall surface, and the first portion connects the first protrusion and the second protrusion among the plurality of protrusions.

[0120] The second protrusion is inclined toward the second portion of the inner wall surface, and the second portion connects the second and third protrusions among the plurality of protrusions.

[0121] The third protrusion is inclined toward a third portion of the inner wall surface, and the third portion connects the third protrusion and the first protrusion.

[0122] (6) The tube according to any one of (1) to (5),

[0123] In the cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube,

[0124] Each of the plurality of protrusions includes a front end portion and a base end portion, the front end portion having at least a first thickness, the base end portion connecting the front end portion and the inner wall surface, and the base end portion having a thin-walled portion having a thickness smaller than the first thickness.

[0125] (7) The tube according to any one of (1) to (6),

[0126] In the cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube,

[0127] Each of the plurality of protrusions is arranged rotationally symmetrically with respect to the center of the tube.

[0128] The center of the tube corresponds, for example, to the center of a circle near the inner wall surface of the tube in a cross-section perpendicular to the direction of the tube's extension.

[0129] (8) The tube according to any one of (1) to (7),

[0130] In the cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube,

[0131] The length of each of the plurality of protrusions is more than 35% and less than 65% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface.

[0132] Here, the inner diameter of the inner wall surface corresponds, for example, to the diameter of the circle that is close to the inner wall surface of the pipe in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction of the pipe.

[0133] (9) The tube according to any one of (1) to (8),

[0134] In the cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube,

[0135] The thickness of each of the plurality of protrusions is more than 8% and less than 30% of the length of the protrusion.

[0136] (10) The tube according to any one of (1) to (9),

[0137] In the cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube,

[0138] The diameter of the virtual inscribed circle circumscribed by the plurality of protrusions is more than 25% and less than 50% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface.

[0139] (11) A tube into which an insert is inserted, the tube comprising:

[0140] A first protrusion, the first protrusion protruding from the inner wall surface of the tube and inclined relative to the inner wall surface; and

[0141] A second protrusion protrudes from the inner wall surface of the tube, is inclined relative to the inner wall surface, and is not parallel to the first protrusion.

[0142] When the insert is inserted into the tube, the first protrusion and the second protrusion are configured to clamp the insert between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, and are configured to press the insert in a direction toward the inner wall surface.

[0143] (12) The tube according to (11), wherein when the insert has a generally tubular shape, in a cross-section perpendicular to the extending direction of the tube, the tubular shape has a generally circular cross-section perpendicular to the insertion direction into the tube.

[0144] The first protrusion contacts a first sector-shaped portion on the outer periphery of the insert, the first sector having a central angle of 120 degrees.

[0145] The second protrusion contacts the second sector of the outer periphery of the insert, the second sector having a central angle of 120 degrees, and

[0146] The inner wall surface contacts or faces the third sector of the outer periphery of the insert, the third sector having a central angle of 120 degrees.

[0147] (13) A tube into which an insert is inserted, the tube comprising:

[0148] Inner wall surface; and

[0149] Protrusions extending from the inner wall surface

[0150] The protrusion includes a base end, a front end, and a weakened portion, and

[0151] The weakening portion is disposed between the base end and the front end.

[0152] (14) The tube according to (13), wherein, in a cross-section perpendicular to the extending direction of the tube,

[0153] The base end is disposed on the inner wall surface, and the weakened portion extends from the base end toward the front end.

[0154] (15) The tube according to (13), wherein, in a cross-section perpendicular to the extending direction of the tube,

[0155] The length from the base end to the weakened portion is shorter than the length from the weakened portion to the front end.

[0156] (16) The tube according to (13), wherein, in a cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube, the front end portion has a first thickness, the base end portion has a second thickness, and the weakened portion has a third thickness.

[0157] Wherein the first thickness is greater than the second thickness, and

[0158] The first thickness is greater than the third thickness.

[0159] (17) The tube according to (16),

[0160] The second thickness is greater than the third thickness.

Claims

1. A tube capable of inserting a cable into the tube, and the tube being flexible, the tube comprising: The outer peripheral surface is printed with identification information, which is information used to identify the inserted cable; inner wall surface; as well as Multiple protrusions protrude from the inner wall surface. Each of the multiple protrusions includes a front end and a base end. The front end is used to contact the outer peripheral surface of the inserted cable. The base end connects the front end and the inner wall surface. The front ends of the multiple protrusions press the inserted cable toward the center of the tube from multiple directions to support the inserted cable. Each of the plurality of protrusions is configured to be non-parallel to each other, and each of the plurality of protrusions is configured to be inclined in the same direction along the circumferential direction of the tube without pointing towards the center of the tube. Furthermore, each of the plurality of protrusions is configured in an arc shape that gradually separates from the inner wall surface from the base end to the front end, the arc shape convex towards the inner wall surface. The base end portion has a thin-walled portion, which has a thickness smaller than that of the front end portion.

2. The pipe according to claim 1, wherein the first protrusion of the plurality of protrusions is inclined toward a first portion of the inner wall surface, the first portion connecting the first protrusion and the second protrusion of the plurality of protrusions. The second protrusion is inclined toward the second portion of the inner wall surface, and the second portion connects the second and third protrusions among the plurality of protrusions. The third protrusion is inclined toward a third portion of the inner wall surface, and the third portion connects the third protrusion and the first protrusion.

3. The pipe according to claim 1, wherein, In a cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube, Each of the plurality of protrusions is arranged rotationally symmetrically with respect to the center of the tube.

4. The pipe according to claim 1, wherein, In a cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube, The length of each of the plurality of protrusions is more than 35% and less than 65% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface.

5. The pipe according to claim 1, wherein, In a cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube, The thickness of each of the plurality of protrusions is more than 8% and less than 30% of the length of the protrusion.

6. The pipe according to claim 1, wherein, In a cross-section perpendicular to the extension direction of the tube, The diameter of the virtual inscribed circle circumscribed by the plurality of protrusions is more than 25% and less than 50% of the inner diameter of the inner wall surface.

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