connector

Abstract

A connector includes a connector main body and a retainer. The connector main body includes a first opening portion and a second opening portion. The retainer includes a first leg portion, a second leg portion, and an intermediate portion that is elastically deformable in a manner that widens a space between the first leg portion and the second leg portion. An end surface of the first opening portion includes a first guide surface that guides the first leg portion in a direction in which the space widens when a force in an insertion direction is applied to the first leg portion. An end surface of the second opening portion includes a second guide surface that guides the second leg portion in the direction in which the space widens when a force in the insertion direction is applied to the second leg portion.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This international application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-070254, filed on April 9, 2020, with the Japan Patent Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to connectors. Background Technology

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a pipe fitting. The pipe fitting includes a convex part, a concave part, and a locking part. The locking part prevents the convex part from falling out when it is inserted into the concave part. The locking part consists of a pair of engaging shaft portions and a connecting shaft portion connecting the pair of engaging shaft portions. The locking part is mounted on the concave part. When the convex part is inserted into the concave part, the locking part is deformed by being pressed by the large-diameter portion of the convex part.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-33891 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Problem to be solved by the invention

[0009] The locking component is deformed when each of the two engaging shafts rotates outwards from its end on the connecting shaft side. Therefore, when the locking component is deformed, the end of the engaging shaft opposite to the connecting shaft protrudes significantly outwards. As a result, a larger gap needs to be provided around the pipe fitting to allow for deformation of the locking component.

[0010] In one aspect of this disclosure, a connector capable of reducing the gap around the retainer is preferably provided.

[0011] Method of solving the problem

[0012] One aspect of this disclosure is a connector having a connector body and a retainer, configured to connect to a first tube and a second tube having protrusions, respectively.

[0013] The connector body includes: an insertion hole for inserting the first tube; a first opening communicating from the outer peripheral surface of the connector body to the insertion hole; and a second opening communicating from the outer peripheral surface of the connector body to the insertion hole and opposite to the first opening.

[0014] The holding member has a first leg portion configured to be inserted into the first opening portion and abut against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe on a front side of the protruding portion, thereby restricting detachment of the first pipe, a second leg portion configured to be inserted into the second opening portion and abut against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe on a front side of the protruding portion, thereby restricting detachment of the first pipe, and an intermediate portion connecting a first connecting portion in the first leg portion and a second connecting portion in the second leg portion and capable of elastically deforming in an open manner such that the interval between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion widens.

[0015] The end surface of the first opening portion has a first guide surface that guides the first leg portion in a direction in which the interval widens when a force in the insertion direction of the first pipe is applied to the first leg portion.

[0016] The end surface of the second opening portion has a second guide surface that guides the second leg portion in a direction in which the interval widens when a force in the insertion direction is applied to the second leg portion.

[0017] The first guide surface guides the first leg portion to which a force in the insertion direction is applied by the protruding portion, and the second guide surface guides the second leg portion to which a force in the insertion direction is applied by the protruding portion when the first pipe is inserted into the insertion hole, whereby the interval between the first leg portion and the second leg portion becomes an interval that allows the protruding portion to pass through.

[0018] When the first pipe is inserted into the insertion hole of the connector of one aspect of the present disclosure, the holding member elastically deforms in an open manner such that the interval between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion widens. Therefore, the connector of one aspect of the present disclosure can suppress a case where the first leg portion turns outward with the first connecting portion as a center. Also, the connector of one aspect of the present disclosure can suppress a case where the second leg portion turns outward with the second connecting portion as a center. Therefore, the connector of one aspect of the present disclosure can suppress a case where the holding member protrudes outward substantially when the first pipe is inserted into the insertion hole. Thus, the connector of one aspect of the present disclosure can reduce a gap around the holding member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a structure of a connector to which a first pipe has been connected, as viewed from an upper direction U.

[0020] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a structure of a connector to which a first pipe has been connected, as viewed from a left direction L.

[0021] Figure 3 is a explanatory view showing the structure of the connector and the first pipe which have been joined, as viewed from a viewpoint on the lower direction D side.

[0022] Figure 4 is a explanatory view showing the structure of the connector and the first pipe which have been joined, as viewed from a viewpoint on the right direction R side.

[0023] Figure 5 is a explanatory view showing the structure of the connector and the first pipe which have been joined, as viewed from a viewpoint on the axial front direction F side.

[0024] Figure 6 is a explanatory view showing the structure of the connector and the first pipe which have been joined, as viewed from a viewpoint on the axial back direction B side.

[0025] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view at the VII-VII section in Figure 1 .

[0026] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view at the VIII-VIII section in Figure 2 .

[0027] Figure 9A is a explanatory view showing the structure of the retainer, as viewed from a viewpoint on the upper direction U side; Figure 9B is a explanatory view showing the structure of the retainer, as viewed from a viewpoint on the axial front direction F side.

[0028] Figure 10 is a explanatory view showing the structure of the first pipe.

[0029] Figure 11A and Figure 11B is a explanatory view showing the connector and the first pipe when the first pipe is inserted into the insertion hole and the protruding portion does not contact the first leg portion and the second leg portion.

[0030] Figure 12A and Figure 12B is a explanatory view showing the connector and the first pipe when the protruding portion exerts a force on the retainer so that the interval becomes large.

[0031] Figure 13A and Figure 13B is a explanatory view showing the connector and the first pipe which have been joined.

[0032] Figure 14A and Figure 14B is a explanatory view showing the retainer when no force is exerted from the protruding portion. Figure 14C and Figure 14D is a explanatory view showing the retainer when a force is exerted from the protruding portion so that the interval becomes large.

[0033] Figure 15A and Figure 15B is an explanatory view showing the structure of the tester.

[0034] Figure 16A and Figure 16B is an explanatory view showing the connector when the first pipe is inserted into the insertion hole and the protruding portion does not contact the first leg portion and the second leg portion.

[0035] Figure 17A and Figure 17B is an explanatory view showing the connector when the protruding portion exerts a force on the holding member so as to make the interval large.

[0036] Figure 18A and Figure 18B is an explanatory view showing the connector which has been connected to the first pipe.

[0037] Figure 19A and Figure 19B is an explanatory view showing the state of the connector when the tester has been rotated.

[0038] Figure 20A and Figure 20B is an explanatory view showing the tester when the protruding portion does not exert a force on the holding member. Figure 20C and Figure 20D is an explanatory view showing the tester when the protruding portion exerts a force on the holding member so as to make the width large.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals

[0040] 1...connector; 3...connector body; 5...holding member; 6...tester; 7...first pipe;

[0041] 9...front end; 11...protruding portion; 13...front end portion; 15...large diameter portion; 17...medium diameter portion;

[0042] 19...small diameter portion; 21...projection; 23...through hole; 25, 27...step portion; 29...insertion hole;

[0043] 31...first opening portion; 33...second opening portion; 35, 39, 43, 47...end portion;

[0044] 37, 41, 45, 49...inclined portion; 50...O-ring; 51, 53...protruding portion; 52...bushing;

[0045] 55...first leg portion; 55A...first connecting portion; 57...second leg portion; 57A...second connecting portion;

[0046] 59...intermediate portion; 61...elastically deformable portion; 71...open ring portion; 73...body portion;

[0047] 75…cover section; 77, 79…grooves; 81, 83…side surfaces; 82, 84…end faces;

[0048] 91, 93… First guiding surface; 95, 97… Second guiding surface; 101, 103… First limiting surface;

[0049] 105, 107… Second Restriction Surface Detailed Implementation

[0050] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] 1. Structure of Connector 1

[0052] (1-1) Overall structure of connector 1

[0053] like Figures 1-8 As shown, connector 1 includes connector body 3 and retainer 5. Connector 1 also includes the inspector 6 shown in Figure 15. Connector 1 and Figure 10 The first tube 7 shown is connected. Furthermore, connector 1 is also connected to a second tube (not shown). The second tube is, for example, a resin tube.

[0054] Additionally, in the following text... Figure 1 The left direction in the middle is taken as the back direction B, and the left direction is taken as the back direction B. Figure 1 The rightward direction in the equation is taken as the forward direction F. Furthermore, [the following is a partial translation of the original text, which is not translated here]. Figure 1 The proximal direction in the middle is taken as the upward direction U, and the direction of the upper direction is taken as U. Figure 1 The deepest direction in the middle is taken as the downward direction D. Furthermore, [the following is taken as]... Figure 1 The downward direction in the middle is taken as the left direction L, and the downward direction is taken as the left direction L. Figure 10 The upward direction in the middle is taken as the right direction R.

[0055] (1-2) Structure of the first tube 7

[0056] Reference Figures 1-8 The structure of the first tube 7 will be described. The first tube 7 has a basic shape that is hollow and cylindrical. The first tube 7 is open at the front end 9. In addition, the first tube 7 is also open at the end opposite to the front end 9.

[0057] The first tube 7 has a protrusion 11 at a position after it has moved from the front end 9 in the forward direction F. Furthermore, the description of the orientation of the first tube 7 indicates the orientation when the first tube 7 is connected to the connector 1.

[0058] The outer diameter of the protrusion 11 is defined as d1. The outer diameter of the first tube 7, excluding the protrusion 11, is fixed. The outer diameter of the portion excluding the protrusion 11 is defined as d2. d1 is greater than d2. The portion of the first tube 7 closer to the front end 9 than the protrusion 11 is called the front end portion 13. The outer diameter of the front end portion 13 is d2.

[0059] (1-3) Structure of connector body 3

[0060] Reference Figures 5-8 The structure of the connector body 3 will be described. The connector body 3 has a basic hollow cylindrical shape. The connector body 3 includes a large-diameter portion 15, a medium-diameter portion 17, and a small-diameter portion 19. The large-diameter portion 15 is located on the side of the connector body 3 in the forward direction F. The outer diameter of the large-diameter portion 15 is larger than the outer diameters of the medium-diameter portion 17 and the small-diameter portion 19.

[0061] The small-diameter portion 19 is located on the side of the connector body 3 in the rearward direction B. The outer diameter of the small-diameter portion 19 is smaller than the outer diameters of the large-diameter portion 15 and the intermediate-diameter portion 17. Multiple annular protrusions 21 are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the small-diameter portion 19. The second tube is connected to the connector 1 by inserting the small-diameter portion 19 into the inside of the second tube. The protrusions 21 push against the inner circumferential surface of the second tube, thus preventing the second tube from easily disengaging from the small-diameter portion 19. The intermediate-diameter portion 17 is located between the large-diameter portion 15 and the small-diameter portion 19.

[0062] like Figure 8 As shown, the connector body 3 has a through hole 23 inside. The through hole 23 extends parallel to the rearward direction B and the frontward direction F, and passes through the connector body 3.

[0063] like Figures 1-4 As shown, steps 25 and 27 are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the connector body 3. Step 25 is formed in the intermediate diameter portion 17. Step 27 is formed in the large diameter portion 15 on the side located in the rearward direction B. The diameter of the through hole 23 is largest in the portion closer to the front direction F than the step 27. The portion of the through hole 23 closer to the front direction F than the step 27 is referred to as the insertion hole 29. The diameter of the insertion hole 29 is slightly larger than d1.

[0064] The diameter of the portion of through hole 23 on the rearward direction (B side) of the step portion 25 is the smallest and is less than d2. The diameter of the portion of through hole 23 between the step portion 25 and the step portion 27 is slightly larger than d2 and less than d1.

[0065] like Figure 8 , Figure 1 As shown, the connector body 3 has a first opening 31 and a second opening 33. The first opening 31 is a groove formed in the large-diameter portion 15 on the side facing forward (F) and to the right (R). The width of the groove is slightly larger than the diameter of the first foot portion 55, which will be described later. The first opening 31 extends from the outer peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion 15 to the insertion hole 29.

[0066] The first opening 31 extends substantially circumferentially along the large-diameter portion 15. However, as... Figure 4 , Figure 3As shown, the first opening portion 31 has an inclined portion 37 near the end portion 35 on the upper direction U side. The direction away from the end portion 35 along the inclined portion 37 is a direction having a component of the axial rear direction B, a component of the right direction R, and a component of the lower direction D.

[0067] Further, as shown in Figure 4 , Figure 1 As shown, the first opening portion 31 has an inclined portion 37 near the end portion 35 on the upper direction U side. The direction away from the end portion 35 along the inclined portion 37 is a direction having a component of the axial rear direction B, a component of the right direction R, and a component of the lower direction D.

[0068] The second opening portion 33 is a groove formed in the large diameter portion 15 on the axial front direction F side and on the left direction L side. The width of the groove is slightly larger than the diameter of the second leg portion 57 described later. The second opening portion 33 communicates from the outer peripheral surface of the large diameter portion 15 to the insertion hole 29. The second opening portion 33 opposes the first opening portion 31 across the center of the insertion hole 29.

[0069] The second opening portion 33 extends substantially along the circumferential direction of the large diameter portion 15. However, as shown in Figure 2 , Figure 2 As shown, the second opening portion 33 has an inclined portion 45 near the end portion 43 on the upper direction U side. The direction away from the end portion 43 along the inclined portion 45 is a direction having a component of the axial rear direction B, a component of the left direction L, and a component of the lower direction D.

[0070] Further, as shown in Figure 3 , Figure 1 As shown, the second opening portion 33 has an inclined portion 45 near the end portion 43 on the upper direction U side. The direction away from the end portion 43 along the inclined portion 45 is a direction having a component of the axial rear direction B, a component of the left direction L, and a component of the lower direction D.

[0071] As shown in Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 8 The connector body 3 has protrusion portions 51, 53. The protrusion portions 51, 53 are formed in the outer peripheral surface of the large diameter portion 15 at portions on the upper direction U side. The protrusion portions 51, 53 protrude radially outward of the large diameter portion 15 more than the surroundings thereof. The protrusion portions 51, 53 are arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the large diameter portion 15.

[0072] As shown in Figure 8 An O-ring 50 and a bushing 52 are interposed in the insertion hole 29. The O-ring 50 is located on the axial rear direction B side in the insertion hole 29. The bushing 52 is located on the axial front direction F side from the O-ring 50.

[0073] The first pipe 7 is inserted into the insertion hole 29 with the front end 9 first, thereby joining the first pipe 7 to the connector 1. As shown inFigures 1-8 As shown, when the first pipe 7 is connected to the connector 1, the front end 9 reaches the vicinity of the stepped portion 25. The protruding portion 11 abuts against the side surface of the bush 52 from the axial front direction F side. The front end portion 13 is inserted into the O-ring 50 and the bush 52. The protruding portion 11 is positioned at a position slightly closer to the axial rear direction B side than the first opening portion 31 and the second opening portion 33.

[0074] (1-4) Structure of the retainer 5

[0075] The structure of the retainer 5 will be described with reference to FIG. 9. The retainer 5 is composed of a wire material such as metal, for example. The retainer 5 is composed of a material that can be elastically deformed. The retainer 5 has a first leg portion 55, a second leg portion 57, and an intermediate portion 59.

[0076] The first leg portion 55 and the second leg portion 57 each have a shape that extends in the downward direction D and is bent inwardly at the vicinity of the lower end.

[0077] The intermediate portion 59 is a portion that connects a first connecting portion 55A in the first leg portion 55 and a second connecting portion 57A in the second leg portion 57. The first connecting portion 55A is the upper end of the first leg portion 55. The second connecting portion 57A is the upper end of the second leg portion 57.

[0078] The intermediate portion 59 has an elastically deformable portion 61 that is bent into a U shape. The elastically deformable portion 61 can produce an elastic deformation in which the width W changes. More specifically, the elastically deformable portion 61 can produce an elastic deformation in which the mouth of the U shape opens (hereinafter referred to as an open elastic deformation). When the open elastic deformation is produced, the interval D between the first connecting portion 55A and the second connecting portion 57A in the right direction R and the left direction L expands. Further, when the open elastic deformation is produced, the width W becomes larger than before the open elastic deformation is produced. The more the measurement position of the width W approaches the axial rear direction B when the open elastic deformation is produced, the more the width W relatively narrows in the elastically deformable portion 61.

[0079] Figure 1 A state in which the retainer 5 is attached to the connector main body 3 and the first pipe 7 is connected to the connector 1 is shown. The state of the retainer 5 at this time will be referred to as a basic state hereinafter. In addition, as the state of the retainer 5, in addition to the basic state, there is an expanded state that will be described later.

[0080] The first leg portion 55 is inserted into the first opening portion 31. As shown in FIG. 9, the first leg portion 55 is inserted into the first opening portion 31 so as to contact the end portion 35 and the end portion 39. Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 As shown, the first leg portion 55 is deeply inserted into the first opening portion 31 until it contacts the end portion 35 and the end portion 39. As shown in FIG. 9, the first leg portion 55 is deeply inserted into the first opening portion 31 until it contacts the end portion 35 and the end portion 39. Figure 8 Figure 1 ​​​As shown in FIG. 9, the first leg 55 is inserted into the first opening 31. As shown in FIG. 10, the first leg 55 is inserted deeper into the first opening 31 until the end portion 43 and the end portion 47 are contacted. As shown in FIG. 11, the first leg 55 is inserted into the center direction of the insertion hole 29. As viewed from the axial front direction F side, the first leg 55 is positioned at a position coinciding with the protruding portion 11. The first leg 55 is positioned at a position on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The first leg 55 abuts against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe 7 on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11 corresponds to the front side than the protruding portion 11. The first leg 55 restricts detachment of the first pipe 7 from the connector 1.

[0081] The second leg 57 is inserted into the second opening 33. As shown in FIG. 18, the second leg 57 is inserted deeper into the second opening 33 until the end portion 43 and the end portion 47 are contacted. As shown in FIG. 19, the second leg 57 is inserted into the center direction of the insertion hole 29. As viewed from the axial front direction F side, the second leg 57 is positioned at a position coinciding with the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 is positioned at a position on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 abuts against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe 7 on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 restricts detachment of the first pipe 7 from the connector 1. Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 18, the second leg 57 is inserted deeper into the second opening 33 until the end portion 43 and the end portion 47 are contacted. As shown in FIG. 19, the second leg 57 is inserted into the center direction of the insertion hole 29. As viewed from the axial front direction F side, the second leg 57 is positioned at a position coinciding with the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 is positioned at a position on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 abuts against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe 7 on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 restricts detachment of the first pipe 7 from the connector 1. Figure 8 、 Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 19, the second leg 57 is inserted into the center direction of the insertion hole 29. As viewed from the axial front direction F side, the second leg 57 is positioned at a position coinciding with the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 is positioned at a position on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 abuts against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe 7 on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 restricts detachment of the first pipe 7 from the connector 1.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 18, the second leg 57 is inserted deeper into the second opening 33 until the end portion 43 and the end portion 47 are contacted. As shown in FIG. 19, the second leg 57 is inserted into the center direction of the insertion hole 29. As viewed from the axial front direction F side, the second leg 57 is positioned at a position coinciding with the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 is positioned at a position on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 abuts against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe 7 on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 restricts detachment of the first pipe 7 from the connector 1. Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 11A As shown in FIG. 18, the second leg 57 is inserted deeper into the second opening 33 until the end portion 43 and the end portion 47 are contacted. As shown in FIG. 19, the second leg 57 is inserted into the center direction of the insertion hole 29. As viewed from the axial front direction F side, the second leg 57 is positioned at a position coinciding with the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 is positioned at a position on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 abuts against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe 7 on the axial front direction F side than the protruding portion 11. The second leg 57 restricts detachment of the first pipe 7 from the connector 1.

[0083] (1-5) Structure of the verifier 6

[0084] The structure of the verifier 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 15. The verifier 6 has a substantially ring shape. More specifically, as viewed from the axial direction of the ring, the verifier 6 has a C-letter shape having an open ring portion 71. The verifier 6 is fitted on the large-diameter portion 15. The large-diameter portion 15 is inserted into the inside of the verifier 6. The verifier 6 is elastically deformable to expand the open ring portion 71.

[0085] The verifier 6 has a main body portion 73 and a cover portion 75. The main body portion 73 is a portion abutting against the outer peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion 15. The cover portion 75 is a portion extending from the outer peripheral side of the main body portion 73 toward the axial front direction F. There is a gap between the outer peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion 15 and the cover portion 75.

[0086] Grooves 77 and 79 are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the main body 73. Grooves 77 and 79 are formed from the end of the main body 73 in the rearward direction B to the end in the forward direction F. Grooves 77 and 79 are arranged such that the open ring portion 71 is sandwiched between grooves 77 and 79.

[0087] The side surface 81 of groove 77 that is farther from the open-ring portion 71 is inclined in such a way that a point on side surface 81 is closer to the rearward direction B than the axis, and that point is closer to the end face 82. End face 82 is the end face of the main body 73 facing the open-ring portion 71. The side surface 83 of groove 79 that is farther from the open-ring portion 71 is inclined in such a way that a point on side surface 83 is closer to the rearward direction B than the axis, and that point is closer to the end face 84. End face 84 is the end face of the main body 73 facing the open-ring portion 71.

[0088] 2. The movement of retainer 5

[0089] Referring to Figures 11 to 14, the operation of the retaining member 5 when connecting the first tube 7 to the connector 1 will be explained. Also, for ease of explanation, the markings for the inspector 6 are omitted in Figures 11 to 13.

[0090] Figure 11B as well as Figure 11A The shown state is when the first tube 7 is inserted into the insertion hole 29, and the protrusion 11 is not in contact with the first foot 55 and the second foot 57. At this time, the retainer 5 is in its basic state. Figure 11B as well as Figure 14A In the state shown, such as Figure 14B As shown, the elastic deformation portion 61 does not exhibit open elastic deformation, and its width W is relatively small. Furthermore, as... Figure 11A As shown, the interval D is relatively small.

[0091] If from Figure 11B as well as Figure 1 If the first tube 7 is inserted further into the state shown, the protrusion 11 applies a force in the rear-axis direction B to the first foot 55 and the second foot 57. The rear-axis direction B corresponds to the insertion direction.

[0092] The first foot 55 was pressed down Figure 3 The first guide surface 91 is shown. The first guide surface 91 is the end face of the large-diameter portion 15 facing the inclined portion 37, and is the end face located on the B side in the rearward direction of the shaft. In addition, the first foot portion 55 is pressed onto Figure 12A On the first guide surface 93 shown. The first guide surface 93 is the end face of the large-diameter portion 15 facing the inclined portion 41, and is the end face located on the side in the rear-axis direction B. The first guide surfaces 91 and 93 are inclined in such a way that the closer a point on the first guide surfaces 91 and 93 is to the rear-axis direction B, the closer that point is to the right direction R. Therefore, as Figure 1As shown, the first foot 55 is guided by the first guide surfaces 91 and 93, thereby moving in the right direction R.

[0093] The second foot, 57, was pressed down as if... Figure 3 The second guide surface 95 is shown. The second guide surface 95 is the end face of the large-diameter portion 15 facing the inclined portion 45, and is the end face located on the B side in the rearward direction of the shaft. In addition, the second foot portion 57 is pressed onto... Figure 12A On the second guide surface 97 shown. The second guide surface 97 is the end face of the large-diameter portion 15 facing the inclined portion 49, and is the end face located on the side in the rear-axis direction B. The second guide surfaces 95 and 97 are inclined in such a way that the closer a point on the second guide surfaces 95 and 97 is to the rear-axis direction B, the further that point is to the left in the direction L. Therefore, as Figure 12A As shown, the second foot 57 is guided by the second guide surfaces 95 and 97, thereby moving in the left direction L.

[0094] like Figure 14C , Figure 12B As shown, by moving the first foot 55 to the right (R) and the second foot 57 to the left (L), the elastic deformation portion 61 undergoes open elastic deformation, thereby increasing the width W. The result is as follows: Figure 14D , Figure 14A As shown, the interval D widens.

[0095] By widening the gap D, the gap between the first foot 55 and the second foot 57 becomes a gap that allows the protrusion 11 to pass through. The state of the retainer 5 at this time is referred to as the expanded state. The protrusion 11 passes between the first foot 55 and the second foot 57 and enters towards the side further back in the axial direction B than the first foot 55 and the second foot 57.

[0096] If the protrusion 11 enters towards the side further back in the rearward direction B than the first foot 55 and the second foot 57, the protrusion 11 no longer exerts force on the first foot 55 and the second foot 57. Therefore, the first foot 55 and the second foot 57 recover to their original position through the restoring force generated by elastic deformation. Figure 14B as well as Figure 13A The state shown indicates that the state of component 5 has been restored to its basic state. Figure 13B as well as Figure 13A This shows the current state of connector 1 and tube 7.

[0097] like Figure 13B As shown, the first foot 55 and the second foot 57 are located on the forward F side of the axis, relative to the protrusion 11. Figure 1As shown, viewed from the F side in the direction of the shaft front, the first foot 55 and the second foot 57 are located at positions coinciding with the protrusion 11. Therefore, the first foot 55 and the second foot 57 restrict the disengagement of the first tube 7. The result of the above process is that the first tube 7 is connected to the connector 1.

[0098] If a force F in the forward direction is applied to the connected first tube 7, the protrusion 11 will press the first foot 55 against the shaft. Figure 3 The first limiting surface 101 shown and Figure 1 On the first limiting surface 103 shown. The forward direction F corresponds to the disengagement direction. The first limiting surface 101 is the end face of the large-diameter portion 15 facing the inclined portion 37, and is the end face located on the side of the forward direction F. The first limiting surface 103 is the end face of the large-diameter portion 15 facing the inclined portion 41, and is the end face located on the side of the forward direction F.

[0099] The first limiting surfaces 101 and 103 are inclined such that the closer a point on the first limiting surfaces 101 and 103 is to the rearward direction B, the further it is to the rightward direction R. Therefore, even if a force in the forward direction F is applied to the first foot 55, causing the first foot 55 to be pressed against the first limiting surfaces 101 and 103, the first foot 55 will not be guided to the rightward direction R. That is, even if a force in the forward direction F is applied to the first tube 7, the first foot 55 will not be guided in a direction that widens the gap D.

[0100] Furthermore, if a force F in the forward direction is applied to the connected first tube 7, the protrusion 11 presses the second foot 57 against the shaft. Figure 3 The second limiting surface 105 shown and Figure 16A The second limiting surface 107 is shown. The second limiting surface 105 is the end face of the large-diameter portion 15 facing the inclined portion 45, and is the end face located on the side in the forward direction F. The second limiting surface 107 is the end face of the large-diameter portion 15 facing the inclined portion 49, and is the end face located on the side in the forward direction F.

[0101] The second limiting surfaces 105 and 107 are inclined such that the closer a point on the second limiting surfaces 105 and 107 is to the rearward direction B, the further it is to the leftward direction L. Therefore, even if a force in the forward direction F is applied to the second foot 57, causing the second foot 57 to be pressed against the second limiting surfaces 105 and 107, the second foot 57 will not be guided to the leftward direction L. That is, even if a force in the forward direction F is applied to the first tube 7, the second foot 57 will not be guided in a direction that widens the gap D.

[0102] Therefore, even if a force in the axial forward direction F is applied to the first pipe 7 that has been connected, the interval D does not widen, and thus the protrusion portion 11 cannot pass between the first leg portion 55 and the second leg portion 57, and therefore the first pipe 7 does not come off the connector 1.

[0103] 3. Action of the verifier 6

[0104] The action of the verifier 6 when the first pipe 7 is connected and when the first pipe 7 is removed will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 20.

[0105] Figure 16B and Figure 16A The state shown in FIG. 16 is a state in which the first pipe 7 is inserted into the insertion hole 29, and the protrusion portion 11 does not contact the first leg portion 55 and the second leg portion 57. At this time, the state of the retainer 5 is the basic state.

[0106] The verifier 6 is fitted in the portion of the large diameter portion 15 on the axial forward direction F side. The cover portion 75 is located at a position further on the axial forward direction F side than the main body portion 73. The elastically deformable portion 61 is inserted into the split portion 71. Since the elastically deformable portion 61 does not undergo an open elastic deformation, as shown in FIG. 17, the split portion 71 is not widened. Figure 16B 、 Figure 20A 、 Figure 20B 、 Figure 16A

[0107] The positions of the protrusion portions 51, 53 in the circumferential direction of the large diameter portion 15 are offset from the positions of the grooves 77, 79. Even if a force in the axial rearward direction B is applied to the verifier 6, since the protrusion portions 51, 53 come into contact with the main body portion 73, the verifier 6 cannot move in the axial rearward direction B. The protrusion portions 51, 53 and the grooves 77, 79 correspond to movement restriction portions.

[0108] If the first pipe 7 is further inserted from the state shown in FIG. 16, the state shown in FIG. 18 is reached. The elastically deformable portion 61 undergoes a spreading deformation so as to increase the width W. As a result, as shown in FIG. 19, the verifier 6 undergoes an elastic deformation in such a manner that the split portion 71 is widened. Figure 16B 、 Figure 17A 、 Figure 17B 、 Figure 17A Figure 17B 、 Figure 20C 、 Figure 20D 、 Figure 17A

[0109] The end faces 82, 84 opposite the split portion 71 are pressed at the elastically deformable portion 61 by the restoring force resulting from the elastic deformation, and receive a reaction force from the elastically deformable portion 61. As shown in FIG. 20, the verifier 6 is elastically deformed in such a manner that the split portion 71 is widened. Figure 17A ​​​As shown, the elastically deformed portion 61 has a shape in which the measurement position of the width W becomes narrower as it approaches the rearward direction B, and thus the reaction force includes a component in the rearward direction B. As a result, the checker 6 is forced in the rearward direction B. The rearward direction B corresponds to the axial direction of the insertion hole 29.

[0110] In Figure 17B and Figure 18A In the state shown, the positions of the protruding portions 51, 53 in the circumferential direction of the large-diameter portion 15 coincide with the positions of the grooves 77, 79. Therefore, the checker 6, which is forced in the rearward direction B, can move in the rearward direction B. As the checker 6 moves, the protruding portions 51, 53 pass through the grooves 77, 79.

[0111] When the protruding portions 51, 53 pass through the interiors of the grooves 77, 79, the side surfaces 81, 83 are pressed against the protruding portions 51, 53 and receive reaction forces from the protruding portions 51, 53. Since the side surfaces 81, 83 are inclined in the manner described above, the reaction forces include a component in the rearward direction B. As a result, the checker 6 is further strongly forced in the rearward direction B.

[0112] Figure 18B and Figure 19A A state in which the connection of the first pipe 7 is completed is shown. The checker 6 has moved in the rearward direction B compared to before the first pipe 7 was connected. The holder 5 returns to the basic state, and thus the width W becomes small. Therefore, the open loop portion 71 is reduced. Since the open loop portion 71 has been reduced, the positions of the protruding portions 51, 53 in the circumferential direction of the large-diameter portion 15 are misaligned with the positions of the grooves 77, 79. As a result, even if a force in the forward direction F is applied to the checker 6, the checker 6 does not move.

[0113] Figure 19B and Figure 19B A state in which the checker 6 has been rotated in the circumferential direction of the large-diameter portion 15 after the first pipe 7 has been connected to the connector 1 is shown. Since the elastically deformed portion 61 is inserted into the open loop portion 71, the holder 5 rotates together with the checker 6. At this time, as shown in ​ As shown, the interval between the first leg portion 55 and the second leg portion 57 is larger than the protruding portion 11. Therefore, the first pipe 7 can be removed from the connector 1.

[0114] 4. Effects achieved by the connector 1

[0115] (1A) When the first pipe 7 is inserted into the insertion hole 29, the holder 5 is elastically deformed in such a manner that the interval D is widened. Thus, the connector 1 can suppress the first leg 55 from turning outward about the first connecting portion 55A. Also, the connector 1 can suppress the second leg 57 from turning outward about the second connecting portion 57A. Thus, the connector 1 can suppress the holder 5 from protruding outward to a large extent when the first pipe 7 is inserted into the insertion hole 29. Thus, the connector 1 can reduce the gap around the holder 5.

[0116] (1B) When a force in the axial forward direction F is applied to the first pipe 7 that has been coupled to the connector 1, the first restriction surfaces 101, 103 and the second restriction surfaces 105, 107 do not guide the first leg 55 and the second leg 57 in a direction in which the interval D is widened. Thus, even if a force in the axial forward direction F is applied to the first pipe 7 that has been coupled to the connector 1, the first pipe 7 is not easily detached from the connector 1.

[0117] (1C) The connector 1 is provided with the verifier 6. The position of the verifier 6 before the first pipe 7 is coupled to the connector 1 is different from the position of the verifier 6 after the first pipe 7 is coupled to the connector 1. Thus, the user can know whether the first pipe 7 has been coupled to the connector 1 by observing the position of the verifier 6. Also, the user can easily remove the first pipe 7 from the connector 1 by rotating the verifier 6.

[0118] <Other Embodiments>

[0119] The embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be variously modified and implemented.

[0120] (1) The functions of one constituent element in each of the above-described embodiments can be shared by a plurality of constituent elements, or the functions of a plurality of constituent elements can be integrated into one constituent element. Also, a part of the constitution of the above-described embodiments can be omitted. Also, at least a part of the constitution of the above-described embodiments can be added to the constitution of the above-described other embodiments, or at least a part of the constitution of the above-described embodiments can be replaced with the constitution of the above-described other embodiments, or the like.

[0121] (2) The present disclosure can be implemented not only by the connector 1 described above, but also by various means such as a system that uses the connector 1 as a constituent element, and a manufacturing method of the connector 1.

Claims

1. A connector having a connector main body and a retainer, and configured to be connected to a first pipe having a protruding portion and a second pipe, characterized in that: the connector main body has: an insertion hole into which the first pipe is inserted; a first opening portion that communicates from an outer peripheral surface of the connector main body to the insertion hole; and a second opening portion that communicates from the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body to the insertion hole and is opposite to the first opening portion, the retainer has: a first leg portion configured to be inserted into the first opening portion and abut against a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the first pipe that is on a front side of the protruding portion, thereby restricting separation of the first pipe; a second leg portion configured to be inserted into the second opening portion and abut against a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first pipe that is on the front side of the protruding portion, thereby restricting separation of the first pipe; and an intermediate portion that connects a first connecting portion in the first leg portion and a second connecting portion in the second leg portion, and is elastically deformable in such a manner that a space between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion widens, an end surface of the first opening portion has a first guide surface that guides the first leg portion in a direction in which the space widens when a force in an insertion direction of the first pipe is applied to the first leg portion, an end surface of the second opening portion has a second guide surface that guides the second leg portion in the direction in which the space widens when a force in the insertion direction is applied to the second leg portion, the first guide surface guides the first leg portion to which the force in the insertion direction is applied by the protruding portion, and the second guide surface guides the second leg portion to which the force in the insertion direction is applied by the protruding portion when the first pipe is inserted into the insertion hole, whereby the space between the first leg portion and the second leg portion becomes a space that allows the protruding portion to pass through, the connector further has an inspector that is in a C shape having an open loop portion, is elastically deformable in such a manner that the open loop portion expands, and is fitted on the connector main body, the intermediate portion is elastically deformable in such a manner that a width of the intermediate portion changes, the intermediate portion has an elastically deformed portion that is inserted into the open loop portion, the elastically deformed portion has a shape in which, at least when the width has expanded, the wider the measurement position of the width is from an axial direction of the insertion hole, the narrower the width is, the inspector is configured to be elastically deformed in such a manner that the open loop portion expands by the width increasing when the first pipe is inserted into the insertion hole, and to be forced in the axial direction by a restoring force generated by the elastic deformation. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The connector further has a movement restriction portion that restricts movement of the tester in the axial direction when the first pipe is not inserted into the insertion hole, and that permits movement of the tester in the axial direction when the first pipe is inserted into the insertion hole and the split portion has expanded.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein an end surface of the first opening portion is configured not to guide the first leg portion in a direction in which the interval becomes wider when a force in a direction in which the first pipe is separated is applied to the first leg portion; an end surface of the second opening portion is configured not to guide the second leg portion in a direction in which the interval becomes wider when a force in the direction in which the first pipe is separated is applied to the second leg portion.

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