Sealed structure

Abstract

Provided is a sealing structure that suppresses overflow of a sealing member when the sealing member is pressurized in a flat seal and improves pressure resistance. A sealing structure (100) includes a sealing device (10), which is a planar seal arranged in an annular groove (15) provided in one of two components (11, 12) and seals an annular gap (S) between the two components (11, 12). The sealing device (10) includes: a sealing component (31) made of a rubber elastic system, which is arranged on the high-pressure side; and a support ring (32) made of resin, which is adjacent to the sealing component (31) and assembled at a position closer to the low-pressure side than the sealing component (31). The support ring (32) is an end ring with a cutout portion in a part thereof. The cutout portion extends parallel to the thickness direction of the support ring (32) and extends crosswise to the radial direction of the support ring (32). The sealing component (31) and the support ring (32) are arranged between the two components (11, 12) in a state of being pressurized by the two components (11, 12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sealing structure, and more particularly to a sealing structure for suppressing overflow of a sealing member when the sealing member is pressurized in a planar seal. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there are known pressure vessels, high-pressure tanks, and the like having a sealing structure using a sealing member to seal a gap between two members to ensure sealing properties.

[0003] The sealing member used in the sealing structure is specifically an O-ring, which is classified into a flat seal and a cylindrical surface seal according to its assembly method. As a flat seal, for example, the sealing members described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are known.

[0004] Specifically, Patent Document 1 describes a pressure vessel having a sealing member provided between a resin bushing and a valve (see Figure 2 ).

[0005] Patent document 2 describes a high-pressure tank in which at least one side of the bushing is split, and a sealing component is clamped around the entire circumference of the opening end on the joint surface between the bushing main body and the split body (see Figure 12(a)), and a deformation portion is formed on one of the bushing main body and the split body that deforms toward the sealing surface abutting against the sealing component.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-36603

[0009] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-225852 Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0011] In pressure vessels and high-pressure tanks using flat seals as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, when the sealing member is pressurized, a portion of the sealing member may enter between the two components it seals (i.e., the sealing member may overflow). Specifically, the sealing members described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 may enter the gap between the lid and the container that constitute the pressure vessel when subjected to internal or external pressure. Therefore, to prevent this, a support ring is provided adjacent to the sealing member.

[0012] However, in high-pressure components such as pressure vessels and high-pressure tanks, significant deformation of the cover or container during use can create a gap between the support ring and the cover. Therefore, even when using a support ring in a flat seal, there is room for improvement in preventing the seal member from leaking out.

[0013] The present invention has been made in view of such conventional technology, and an object of the present invention is to develop a sealing structure that suppresses the sealing member from leaking out when the sealing member is pressurized in a flat seal and improves pressure resistance.

[0014] Solutions for solving technical problems

[0015] The present invention provides the following sealing structure.

[0016] [1] A sealing structure having a sealing device, wherein the sealing device is a planar seal arranged in an annular groove provided in one of two components and seals a gap between the two components, wherein:

[0017] The sealing device comprises:

[0018] a sealing member made of a rubber-like elastic material, disposed on the high-pressure side; and

[0019] A resin support ring is adjacent to the sealing member and is mounted on a low-pressure side relative to the sealing member.

[0020] The support ring is an end ring with a cutout portion.

[0021] The cutout portion extends parallel to the thickness direction of the support ring and extends in a manner intersecting the radial direction of the support ring.

[0022] The sealing member and the backup ring are arranged between the two members in a state of being pressurized by the two members.

[0023] [2] The sealing structure according to [1], wherein the cutout portion intersects the radial direction of the support ring at an angle of 3 to 45° with the radial direction of the support ring.

[0024] [3] The sealing structure according to [1] or [2], wherein the support ring is arranged so that the outer surface of the support ring is in contact with the side surface of the low-pressure side of the annular groove.

[0025] [4] A sealing structure having a sealing device, wherein the sealing device is a planar seal member arranged in an annular groove provided in one of two components and sealing a gap between the two components.

[0026] A conical surface with a diameter expanding toward the low-pressure side is provided on the low-pressure side of the bottom surface of the annular groove, wherein:

[0027] The sealing device comprises:

[0028] a sealing member made of a rubber-like elastic material, disposed on the high-pressure side; and

[0029] A resin support ring is adjacent to the sealing member and is mounted on a low-pressure side relative to the sealing member.

[0030] The bottom surface of the support ring is a tapered surface that expands in diameter from an opening on one side of the support ring toward an opening on the other side.

[0031] The angle formed between the conical surface of the support ring and the conical surface of the annular groove is greater than 0°,

[0032] The support ring is arranged so as to have a gap between the outer surface of the support ring and the side surface of the low-pressure side of the annular groove.

[0033] The sealing member and the support ring are arranged between the two members in a state of being pressurized by the two members.

[0034] [5] The sealing structure according to [4], wherein the angle formed by the conical surface of the support ring and the conical surface of the annular groove is 5 to 25 degrees.

[0035] The sealing structure of the present invention (the first invention and the second invention) has the effect of suppressing the sealing member from overflowing when the sealing member is pressurized in the flat seal and also improving the pressure resistance. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing one embodiment of the sealing structure of the present invention (first invention).

[0037] Figure 2 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of an embodiment of the sealing structure of the first invention in an enlarged manner.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a plan view schematically showing a support ring in one embodiment of the sealing structure according to the first invention.

[0039] Figure 4 Yes Figure 3 An enlarged view in which a portion is enlarged and schematically shown.

[0040] Figure 5 It is schematically shown Figure 3 A sectional view of the XX section.

[0041] Figure 6 It is a plan view schematically showing a sealing member and a backup ring in one embodiment of the sealing structure according to the first invention.

[0042] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a sealing member and a backup ring in a state where internal pressure is applied to the sealing device in one embodiment of the sealing structure of the first invention.

[0043] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing one embodiment of the sealing structure of the present invention (second invention).

[0044] Figure 9 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of an embodiment of the sealing structure of the second invention in an enlarged manner.

[0045] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a sealing member and a backup ring in a state where internal pressure is applied to the sealing device in one embodiment of the sealing structure of the second invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and it should be understood that appropriate design changes, improvements, etc. can be made based on the common knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0047] (1) Sealing structure of the first invention:

[0048] One embodiment of the sealing structure of the present invention (first invention) is Figure 1 The sealing structure 100 shown. The sealing structure 100 has a sealing device 10, which is a flat seal that is arranged in an annular groove 15 provided in one of the two components 11 and 12 and seals the gap S between the two components 11 and 12. In addition, the sealing device 10 includes: a sealing component 31 made of a rubber-like elastic system, which is arranged on the high-pressure side H; and a support ring 32 made of resin, which is adjacent to the sealing component 31 and is assembled at a position closer to the low-pressure side L than the sealing component 31. The support ring 32 is an end ring with a cutout portion 20 formed in a part thereof (refer to Figure 3 The cutout portion 20 extends parallel to the thickness direction of the support ring 32 and extends in a manner intersecting the radial direction of the support ring 32. The sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 are respectively arranged between the two members 11 and 12 in a state of being pressurized by the two members 11 and 12. It should be noted that since the sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 are arranged in a pressurized state, the sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 are respectively in contact with the two members 11 and 12, and no gap is generated between them.

[0049] Regarding the sealing structure 100, in the flat seal, the sealing member 31 is prevented from overflowing when pressurized, and the support ring 32 absorbs the pressure under high pressure, thereby improving the pressure resistance. It should be noted that flat seals are used as fixed seals and are classified into those for internal pressure and those for external pressure. Figure 1 Shown is a flat seal for internal pressure.

[0050] (1-1) Two components (cover and container):

[0051] There is no particular limitation on the two components 11 and 12. Specifically, Figure 1 As shown, one component 11 can serve as the cover 21, and the other component 12 can serve as the container 22. Furthermore, an annular groove 15 is formed near the opening 13 of the container 22, and the sealing device 10 is disposed within the annular groove 15. It should be noted that the annular groove 15 can also be formed on the cover 21 side.

[0052] The bottom surface of the annular groove 15 can be a flat surface in a cross-section along its depth direction, and the side surfaces on both sides of the annular groove 15 can be formed parallel to the depth direction. In other words, the distance between the side surfaces of the annular groove 15 from the opening of the annular groove 15 to the bottom surface can be constant.

[0053] It should be noted that the annular groove 15 can also be as follows Figure 8 As shown in the embodiment, a tapered surface whose diameter increases toward the low-pressure side L is provided on the low-pressure side L of the bottom surface 16 .

[0054] (1-2) Sealing device:

[0055] The sealing device 10 comprises a sealing member 31 made of a rubber elastic system, which is arranged on the high pressure side H; and a support ring 32 made of resin, which is adjacent to the sealing member 31 and is mounted at a position closer to the low pressure side L than the sealing member 31 (see FIG. Figure 6 ).

[0056] like Figure 2As shown, when the pressure in the space 41 on one side separated by the sealing device 10 increases (that is, when it becomes high pressure), the sealing device 10 is pressed against the side 18 of the annular groove 15 by the pressure so as to move toward the side with lower pressure, that is, the space 42 on the other side (low-pressure side L). In addition, the sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 of the sealing device 10 pressed against the side 18 of the annular groove 15 are deformed. Here, in the conventional sealing device, a gap is generated between the support ring and the cover body, etc., and there is a case where the sealing member enters the gap (so-called sealing member overflow). However, in the present invention (first invention), by providing a specific support ring, that is, the support ring 32, the overflow of the sealing member 31 as in the conventional sealing device is suppressed.

[0057] The sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 constituting the sealing device 10 are respectively arranged between the two members 11 and 12 in a state of being pressurized by the two members 11 and 12. By arranging the sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 in this state, the gap between the two members 11 and 12 can be sealed and maintained in this state.

[0058] The compression allowances of the sealing member 31 and the backup ring 32 are not particularly limited as long as sealing performance is ensured under pressure conditions, and may be the same as those of conventionally known sealing members and backup rings.

[0059] Hereinafter, each component of the sealing device 10 will be described.

[0060] (1-2a) Sealing components:

[0061] The sealing member 31 is an annular member made of a rubber elastic material and is disposed on the high-pressure side H. A conventionally known sealing member can be appropriately selected and used. Examples of the sealing member 31 include an O-ring and the like.

[0062] The same material as that of conventionally known sealing members can be appropriately adopted as the material of the sealing member 31. Specifically, for example, synthetic resins such as rubber can be used.

[0063] The cross-sectional shape of the sealing member 31 in the thickness direction is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, circular or elliptical.

[0064] (1-2b) Support ring:

[0065] The support ring 32 is adjacent to the sealing member 31 (see Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 6) and is a resin member mounted closer to the low-pressure side L than the sealing member 31. Furthermore, the support ring 32 is an annular ring with ends having a cutout portion 20. Specifically, the support ring 32 has a structure in which a portion of the annular support ring is cut away, forming a space (the cutout portion 20) between the two end faces.

[0066] According to the support ring 32 having the cutout portion 20 formed therein, when the pressure in the space 41 on one side increases (becomes high pressure), the end portion of the support ring 32 is deformed well by the pressure. Figure 7 As shown, a portion of the end of the support ring 32 is deformed to fill the cutout portion 20. When the cutout portion 20 is filled in this way, the overflow of the sealing member 31 can be suppressed. Here, in the past, the overflow of the sealing member 31 was suppressed by further providing a support ring 32. However, there is still a tendency in high-pressure components that the cover body and other components are greatly deformed during use, thereby generating a gap between the support ring and the cover body and other components. When a gap is generated like this, the existing support ring may not be able to fully follow the deformation of the cover body and other components, and there is also a possibility that the gap cannot be prevented. As a result, there is a possibility that the sealing member enters the gap between the support ring and the cover body and other components, causing the sealing member to overflow. Even in such a case, by forming the cutout portion 20 in the support ring 32, for example, compared to a case where the cutout portion is not 20 but a simple cutout portion (i.e., a case where the two end faces of the support ring are connected), the overflow of the sealing member 31 can be suppressed even when the cover body and other components are greatly deformed and a gap is generated. This is because the end portion 37 of the cut portion of the end ring-shaped support ring 32 on the side in contact with the sealing member 31 such as the O-ring is thin, and the end rigidity is reduced. Furthermore, due to the presence of the cut portion 20 (gap), the end portion 37 of the cut portion is more easily deformed.

[0067] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the cutout portion 20 extends parallel to the thickness direction of the support ring 32 and extends in a manner intersecting the radial direction of the support ring 32 .

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG, “intersecting the radial direction of the support ring 32” means that when a straight line L1 passing through the center O1 of the support ring 32 and the center O2 of the cutout portion 20 is drawn, and a straight line L2 passing through the center O1 of the support ring 32 and parallel to the extending direction of the cutout portion 20 is further drawn, the straight line L1 and the straight line L2 intersect. Figure 4 As shown, the center O2 of the cutout portion 20 refers to the intersection of the straight line T1 and the straight line T2 when a straight line T1 is drawn connecting the end point A on the inner surface 38 side of the end face 35 on one side and the end point b on the outer surface 39 side of the end face 36 on the other side, and a straight line T2 is further drawn connecting the end point B on the outer surface 39 side of the end face 35 on one side and the end point a on the inner surface 38 side of the end face 36 on the other side.

[0069] The width D of the cutout portion 20 (ie, the maximum distance between both end surfaces of the support ring 32 ) is not particularly limited and can be appropriately set.

[0070] The cutout portion 20 may be formed at an angle θ1 with the radial direction of the support ring 32 (ie, an angle θ1 (acute angle) formed between the straight line L1 and the straight line L2) (see Figure 3 ) are crossed in a manner of 3 to 45 degrees. In this way, a part of the end portion of the support ring 32 is easily deformed, thereby effectively suppressing the sealing member 31 from overflowing.

[0071] The cross-sectional shape of the support ring 32 in the thickness direction is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a polygon such as a quadrilateral or a hexagon.

[0072] The same material as that of conventionally known support rings can be appropriately adopted as the material of the support ring 32. Specifically, synthetic resins such as nylon 6 (PA6) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) can be used.

[0073] like Figure 1 、 Figure 2 As shown, the support ring 32 is preferably positioned so that its end surface 33 (outer surface 39) on the low-pressure side L contacts the side surface 18 on the low-pressure side L of the annular groove 15. In other words, the support ring 32 is preferably positioned so that there is no gap between it and the side surface 18 on the low-pressure side L of the annular groove 15. With this configuration, when the pressure in one space 41 increases (when it reaches high pressure), the end of the support ring 32 deforms effectively due to this pressure, effectively preventing the sealing member 31 from leaking out.

[0074] (2) How to use the sealing structure:

[0075] The following description of the method of using the sealing structure of the present invention is based on the sealing structure 100. One of the two components is the cover 21, and the other is the container 22.

[0076] First, the sealing device 10 is fitted into the annular groove 15 formed in the container 22. Then, the lid 21 is placed in the container 22 and fixed to the container 22. In this way, the interior of the container 22 is sealed.

[0077] The sealing device 10 receives the internal pressure from the housing 22 . Figure 7 The internal pressure is shown by the arrow in FIG. 1 . When the pressure in the space 41 on one side separated by the sealing device 10 increases, the sealing device 10 is pressed against the side 18 of the annular groove 15 by the pressure so as to move toward the space 42 on the other side with lower pressure, thereby deforming. Figure 7As shown, a portion of the end of the annular support ring 32 is deformed to fill the cutout 20. When the cutout 20 is filled in this way, the seal member 31 can be prevented from overflowing. In addition, the pressure resistance of the seal member 31 can be improved.

[0078] (3) Sealing structure of the second invention:

[0079] One embodiment of the sealing structure of the present invention (second invention) is Figure 8 The sealing structure 200 shown in FIG. 1 is a sealing device that is a planar seal member that is disposed in an annular groove 15 provided in one of the two components 11 and 12 and seals the gap S between the two components 11 and 12. A groove tapered surface 51 is provided on the low-pressure side L of the bottom surface 16 of the annular groove 15. The groove tapered surface 51 is a tapered surface that expands toward the low-pressure side L (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 9 ). In addition, the sealing device 10 includes: a sealing member 31 made of a rubber-like elastic system, which is arranged on the high-pressure side H; and a support ring 32 made of resin, which is adjacent to the sealing member 31 and is assembled at a position closer to the low-pressure side L than the sealing member 31. The bottom surface 16 of the support ring 32 is a conical surface that expands from the opening on one side of the support ring 32 toward the opening on the other side. The angle θ2 formed by the conical surface of the support ring 32 and the conical surface of the annular groove 15 is greater than 0°. The support ring 32 is arranged in a manner that has a gap 55 between its end face 33 (outer surface 39) on the low-pressure side L and the side face 18 of the low-pressure side L of the annular groove 15. The sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 are arranged between the two components 11 and 12 in a state where they are pressurized by the two components 11 and 12, respectively. Note that, since the sealing member 31 and the backup ring 32 are arranged in a pressurized state, the sealing member 31 and the backup ring 32 are in contact with the two members 11 and 12 , respectively, and no gap is generated between them and the two members 11 and 12 .

[0080] Regarding the sealing structure 200, in the flat seal, the sealing member 31 is prevented from overflowing when pressurized, and the support ring 32 absorbs the pressure under high pressure, thereby improving the pressure resistance. It should be noted that flat seals are used as fixed seals and are classified into those for internal pressure and those for external pressure. Figure 8 Shown is a flat seal for internal pressure.

[0081] Conventionally, the sealing member 31 has been prevented from overflowing by further providing a support ring 32. However, in high-pressure components, there is still a tendency for components such as the cover to deform significantly during use, creating a gap between the support ring and the cover. When this gap occurs, conventional support rings may not be able to adequately follow the deformation of components such as the cover, and there is a possibility that the gap cannot be prevented. As a result, the sealing member may enter the gap between the support ring and the cover, causing it to overflow. Even in such situations, the structure of the present invention prevents the sealing member 31 from overflowing, as the support ring 32 follows the gap upward along the tapered surface. Specifically, the support ring 32 is configured to have a gap 55 between its end surface on the low-pressure side L and the side surface 18 of the annular groove 15 on the low-pressure side L. Therefore, when pressed by the sealing member 31, the support ring 32 can move (deform) by expanding its diameter by an amount corresponding to the provision of this gap 55. Furthermore, since the angle θ2 formed by the conical surface of the support ring 32 and the conical surface of the annular groove 15 is greater than 0°, compared with the case where the entire bottom surface of the support ring 32 is in contact with the conical surface of the annular groove 15, even when a component such as a cover body is significantly deformed and a gap is generated, the sealing component 31 can be prevented from overflowing.

[0082] (3-1) Two components (first component and second component):

[0083] There is no particular limitation on the two components 11 and 12. Specifically, Figure 8 As shown, the component 11 on one side can serve as the cover 21, and the component 12 on the other side can serve as the container 22. Furthermore, an annular groove 15 is formed near the opening 13 of the container 22, and the sealing device 10 is disposed in the annular groove 15. It should be noted that the annular groove 15 can also be formed in the cover 21.

[0084] In the present invention (second invention), a groove taper surface 51 , which is a tapered surface that increases in diameter toward the low-pressure side L, is provided on the low-pressure side L of the bottom surface 16 of the annular groove 15 .

[0085] If the annular groove 15 having such a groove tapered surface 51 is provided and the support ring 32 is arranged on the groove tapered surface 51 (see Figure 8 、 Figure 9 ), when the sealing member 31 moves in a manner that expands in diameter due to the internal pressure (pressure) in the housing 22, the support ring 32 is pushed by the sealing member 31 and moves upward along the groove tapered surface 51 (refer to Figure 10 ), thereby preventing a gap from being generated between the support ring 32 and the cover body 21. Thus, when the sealing member 31 is pressurized, it is possible to suppress overflow of the sealing member 31.

[0086] In the annular groove 15, the angle θ3 formed between the extension line of the bottom surface 16 of the annular groove 15 and the groove tapered surface 51 can be 45 to 85 degrees, and further can be 50 to 80 degrees. By forming such an angle, the sealing member 31 can be further effectively suppressed from overflowing when the sealing member 31 is pressurized.

[0087] More specifically, the angle θ3 is the angle (acute angle) formed between the extension line of the bottom surface 16 of the annular groove 15 and the groove tapered surface 51 in the depth direction cross section of the annular groove 15 (see Figure 9 ).

[0088] (3-2) Sealing structure:

[0089] The sealing device 10 includes a sealing member 31 made of a rubbery elastic material and disposed on the high-pressure side H, and a backup ring 32 made of resin and attached adjacent to the sealing member 31 and positioned closer to the low-pressure side L than the sealing member 31 .

[0090] When the pressure in the space 41 on one side partitioned by the sealing device 10 increases (that is, when it becomes high pressure), the sealing device 10 is pressed against the side surface 18 of the annular groove 15 (see FIG. 1 ) so as to move toward the side with lower pressure, that is, the space 42 on the other side (low pressure side L). Figure 9 、 Figure 10 ). Furthermore, the sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 of the sealing device 10, which are pressed against the side surface 18 of the annular groove 15, are deformed. Here, in the conventional sealing device, a gap is generated between the support ring and the cover body, etc., and there is a case where the sealing member enters this gap (so-called overflow of the sealing member). However, in the present invention (the second invention), by providing a groove tapered surface 51 and a specific support ring, namely the support ring 32, which is arranged on the groove tapered surface 51, and the support ring 32 is arranged in a manner that has a gap 55 between it and the side surface 18 of the annular groove 15, it is possible to suppress the overflow of the sealing member 31 as described above.

[0091] The sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 constituting the sealing device 10 are respectively arranged between the two members 11 and 12 in a state of being pressurized by the two members 11 and 12. By arranging the sealing member 31 and the support ring 32 in such a state, the gap between the two members 11 and 12 can be sealed and maintained in this state.

[0092] The compression allowances of the sealing member 31 and the backup ring 32 are not particularly limited as long as sealing performance is ensured under pressure conditions, and may be the same as those of conventionally known sealing members and backup rings.

[0093] Hereinafter, each component of the sealing device 10 will be described.

[0094] (3-2a) Sealing member:

[0095] The sealing member 31 is an annular member made of a rubber-like elastic material and is disposed on the high-pressure side H. A conventionally known sealing member can be appropriately selected and used. Examples of the sealing member 31 include an O-ring and the like.

[0096] The same material as that of conventionally known sealing members can be appropriately adopted as the material of the sealing member 31. Specifically, for example, synthetic resins such as rubber can be used.

[0097] The cross-sectional shape of the sealing member 31 in the thickness direction is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, circular or elliptical.

[0098] (3-2b) Support ring:

[0099] As described above, the support ring 32 is a resin member that is adjacent to the sealing member 31 and mounted closer to the low-pressure side L than the sealing member 31. By positioning the support ring 32 in a predetermined position, the sealing member 31 is prevented from leaking out. Furthermore, the pressure resistance of the sealing member 31 can be improved.

[0100] The bottom surface 34 of the support ring 32 is a tapered surface (bottom tapered surface) that increases in diameter from one opening toward the other opening of the support ring 32. That is, the support ring 32 has a conical inclined surface on one opening side.

[0101] The angle θ2 formed by the bottom surface 34 of the support ring 32, i.e., the bottom tapered surface, and the tapered surface of the annular groove 15 is greater than 0°. In other words, when the angle formed by the extension line of the bottom surface 16 of the annular groove 15 and the bottom surface 34 of the support ring 32 is set to angle α, and the angle formed by the extension line of the bottom surface 16 of the annular groove 15 and the tapered surface of the annular groove 15 is set to angle β, if angle α is compared with angle β, angle α is larger than angle β. The above-mentioned angle θ2 is preferably 5 to 25°, and more preferably 5 to 15°. In this way, since the support ring 32 is not easy to fall over, the overflow of the sealing component 31 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the pressure resistance of the sealing component 31 can be improved.

[0102] The support ring 32 is arranged to define a gap 55 between its end surface 33 (outer surface 39) on the low-pressure side L and the side surface 18 of the annular groove 15 on the low-pressure side L. This gap 55, combined with the fact that the angle formed between the bottom surface 34 (bottom tapered surface) of the support ring 32 and the groove tapered surface 51 of the annular groove 15 is greater than 0°, allows the support ring 32 to move (deform) when pressed by the sealing member 31, expanding in diameter by an amount corresponding to the provision of the gap 55. This prevents the formation of a gap between the support ring 32 and components such as the cover 21, and suppresses the sealing member 31 from entering the gap (that is, from overflowing).

[0103] The support ring 32 may be an annular body without the above-mentioned cutout portion, or may be an end-shaped ring in which a portion is cut to form a slit. In the case of an end-shaped ring, it may be an end-shaped ring having a cutout portion 20 as in the support ring 32 in the first invention described above, or it may be a state in which the two end faces 35, 36 are connected (not a structure in which a gap is provided between the two end faces 35, 36 as in the cutout portion 20). When formed into an end-shaped ring in this way, the diameter of the support ring 32 is likely to expand when it is subjected to the force from the sealing component 31. It should be noted that by providing a slit in the same direction as the cutout portion 20 of the support ring 32 in the first invention described above, it is possible to avoid the situation in which the sealing component 31 is damaged by the support ring 32.

[0104] The same material as that of conventionally known support rings can be appropriately adopted as the material of the support ring 32. Specifically, synthetic resins such as nylon 6 (PA6) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) can be used.

[0105] (4) How to use the sealing structure:

[0106] The following description of the method of using the sealing structure of the present invention is based on the sealing structure 200. One of the two components is the cover 21, and the other is the container 22.

[0107] First, the sealing device 10 is fitted into the annular groove 15 formed in the container 22. Then, the lid 21 is placed on the container 22 and fixed to the container 22. In this way, the interior of the container 22 is sealed.

[0108] The sealing device 10 receives the internal pressure from the interior of the container 22. Figure 10 This internal pressure is indicated by the hollow arrows in the figure. Furthermore, in the sealing device 10, when the pressure in the space 41 on one side partitioned by the sealing device 10 increases, the support ring 32 is pushed by the sealing member 31 and moves upward along the groove tapered surface 51, preventing a gap from forming between the support ring 32 and the lid 21. This prevents overflow of the sealing member 31 when pressurized. Furthermore, since the support ring 32 absorbs the pressure, the pressure resistance of the sealing member 31 is improved.

[0109] Example

[0110] Hereinafter, the present invention will be specifically described based on Examples, but the present invention is not limited to these Examples.

[0111] (Example 1)

[0112] Make as Figure 1The sealing structure shown. This sealing structure is a sealing device arranged in an annular groove, wherein the annular groove is formed in the opening of the container body in two components, the cover body and the container body, and the sealing device has an annular sealing member made of rubber material and a support ring made of rubber material. In addition, the sealing member and the support ring constituting the sealing device are arranged between the cover body and the container body in a state where they are pressurized by the cover body and the container body respectively. The sealing member is an O-ring with a circular cross-section. The support ring is an end ring with a cutout portion. The support ring is adjacent to the sealing member and is assembled at a position closer to the low-pressure side than the sealing member, and the support ring is arranged in such a way that its end face (outer surface) on the low-pressure side is in contact with the side face on the low-pressure side of the annular groove. Furthermore, the cutout portion extends parallel to the thickness direction of the support ring and extends in a manner intersecting with the radial direction of the support ring. The angle (angle θ1) formed by the cutout portion and the radial direction of the support ring is in the range of 3 to 45 degrees.

[0113] When the internal pressure of the container is generated, the sealing structure is made so that the sealing member expands outward (moves in an outward expansion manner) and pushes the support ring in such a manner that the diameter of the adjacent support ring is expanded. At this time, the support ring is deformed in such a manner that the cutout portion is filled (see Figure 7 ). In this way, it is believed that the overflow of the sealing member can be suppressed. In addition, it is believed that the pressure resistance can be improved because the support ring absorbs the pressure.

[0114] (Comparative Example 1)

[0115] A sealing structure was fabricated in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the support ring was formed into an annular shape with both end faces in contact without a gap (no cutouts were provided). However, as in Example 1, this sealing structure was found to be insufficiently effective in suppressing the sealing member from overflowing when the internal pressure within the container increased and the sealing member was pressurized. Furthermore, no improvement in pressure resistance was observed.

[0116] (Example 2)

[0117] Make as Figure 8 The sealing structure shown. This sealing structure is a structure in which a sealing device is arranged in an annular groove, wherein the annular groove is formed in the opening of the container body in two components, the cover body and the container body, and the sealing device has an annular sealing member made of a rubber material and a support ring made of a rubber material. In addition, the sealing member and the support ring constituting the sealing device are arranged between the cover body and the container body in a state where they are pressurized by the cover body and the container body respectively. The sealing member is an O-ring having a circular cross-sectional shape. The support ring is adjacent to the sealing member and is assembled at a position closer to the low-pressure side than the sealing member.

[0118] A tapered surface (groove tapered surface) whose diameter increases toward the low-pressure side is provided on the low-pressure side of the bottom surface of the annular groove.

[0119] The bottom surface of the support ring is a tapered surface that expands in diameter from one opening toward the other. Furthermore, the angle (angle θ2) formed between the tapered surface of the support ring and the tapered surface of the annular groove is greater than 0°, specifically within the range of 5 to 25°. The support ring is positioned so that a gap exists between its low-pressure-side end surface (outer surface) and the low-pressure-side side surface of the annular groove.

[0120] When internal pressure is generated in the container, the sealing structure is manufactured so that the sealing member expands outward (moves in an outwardly expanding manner) and pushes against the adjacent support ring in such a way that the diameter of the support ring increases. At this time, the support ring moves upward along the conical surface of the groove. It is believed that this movement can prevent the formation of a gap between the support ring and the cover body, and can inhibit the sealing member from entering the gap (that is, overflowing the sealing member). In addition, it is believed that because the support ring absorbs pressure, it can improve pressure resistance.

[0121] (Comparative Example 2)

[0122] A sealing structure was fabricated in the same manner as in Example 2, except that the angle (angle θ2) formed between the tapered surface of the support ring and the tapered surface of the annular groove was set to 0°. Furthermore, as in Example 2, this sealing structure was found to be insufficiently effective in suppressing the protrusion and overflow of the sealing member when the internal pressure within the housing increased and the sealing member was pressurized. Furthermore, no improvement in pressure resistance was observed.

[0123] As can be seen from Examples 1 and 2 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2, it is speculated that the sealing structures of Examples 1 and 2 can suppress the overflow of the sealing member when the sealing member is pressurized, compared to the sealing structures of Comparative Examples 1 and 2. Furthermore, it is speculated that the pressure resistance can be improved because the backup ring absorbs the pressure under high pressure.

[0124] Industrial applicability

[0125] The sealing structure of the present invention can be adopted as a sealing structure used in various devices such as vehicles where sealing performance is required.

[0126] Description of Reference Numerals

[0127] 10 Sealing device

[0128] 11, 12 two components

[0129] 13 Opening

[0130] 15 annular groove

[0131] 16 Bottom

[0132] 18 Side of the annular groove

[0133] 21 Cover

[0134] 22 Containment

[0135] 31 Sealing component

[0136] 32 Support ring

[0137] 33 Side of the support ring

[0138] 34 Bottom of support ring

[0139] 35 End face on one side

[0140] 36 End face on the other side

[0141] 37 End of cut section

[0142] 38 inner surface

[0143] 39 outer surface

[0144] 41 Space on one side

[0145] 42 The space on the other side

[0146] 51 Cone

[0147] 55 Gap

[0148] D The width of the cutout

[0149] H High pressure side

[0150] L Low pressure side

[0151] S Gap

Claims

1. A sealing structure comprising a sealing device, wherein the sealing device is a planar seal member disposed in an annular groove provided in one of two components and sealing a gap between the two components, wherein: The sealing device comprises: a sealing member made of a rubber-like elastic material, disposed on the high-pressure side; and A resin support ring is adjacent to the sealing member and is mounted on a low-pressure side relative to the sealing member. The support ring is a ring with ends having a cutout portion formed as a space between the two end faces. The cutout portion extends parallel to the thickness direction of the support ring and extends in a manner intersecting the radial direction of the support ring. When a first straight line passing through the first center of the support ring and the second center of the cutout portion is drawn, and a second straight line passing through the first center of the support ring and parallel to the extending direction of the cutout portion is further drawn, the first straight line and the second straight line intersect, and the second center of the cutout portion refers to the intersection of the first straight line and the first straight line when a first straight line connecting the end point on the inner surface side of the end face on one side and the end point on the outer surface side of the end face on the other side is drawn, and a second straight line connecting the end point on the outer surface side of the end face on one side and the end point on the inner surface side of the end face on the other side is further drawn. The cutout portion intersects the radial direction of the support ring in such a manner that the angle formed with the cutout portion is 3 to 45 degrees. The sealing member and the support ring are respectively arranged between the two members in a state of being pressurized by the two members. The support ring is arranged adjacent to the sealing member in the radial direction of the support ring. When the sealing device moves toward a lower pressure side due to high pressure, a portion of the end portion of the support ring deforms to fill the cutout portion.

2. The sealing structure according to claim 1, wherein: The support ring is arranged such that an outer surface of the support ring is in contact with a side surface of the annular groove on the low-pressure side.

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