Multi-functional cover with flange for pipes

Abstract

Provided is a flanged multifunctional cover capable of coping with a wide range and properly performing a water-stopping function when inserted into a pipe in the corresponding range. A multifunctional cover (10) is configured to include a cover head (12), a strut (14) that extends downward from the cover head (12) and has a circular shape in a horizontal cross section, a first annular flange (16) that protrudes sideways from a side surface of the strut (14), and a second flange (18) that protrudes sideways from the side surface of the strut (14) at a position lower than the first flange (16). When the multifunctional cover (10) is installed in a pipe (T), the sideways end of the first flange (16) and the second flange (18) abuts against an inner wall (I) of the pipe (T). The second flange (18) extends upward as it goes sideways from the side of the strut (14), and has a bowl shape as a whole.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a flange-equipped multi-functional cap for a tube. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the past, in order to suppress leakage of a liquid sample put into a tube (test tube) from an opening of the tube to the outside, or in order to suppress intrusion of foreign matter into the tube from the opening of the tube, a cap (plug) that is installed to the tube in a manner of plugging the opening of the tube has been proposed (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3).

[0003] In addition, in the past, a cap that can be installed to tubes of a plurality of diameters (referred to as a "multi-functional cap" in the present specification) has been proposed (for example, Non-Patent Document 1).

[0004] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0005] PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-12010

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-88216

[0008] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-36568

[0009] NON-PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0010] Non-Patent Document 1: Test Tube Cap Flange Plug <https: / / wexer-store.com / fisher_product / cap_flange_plug / 165> SUMMARY

[0011] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0012] As shown in Non-Patent Document 1, there is a multi-functional cap that has a cap head portion, a support pillar that extends downward from the cap head portion (in the present specification, the upward and downward directions refer to the elongation direction of the tube, and the tube side is the lower side as viewed from the multi-functional cap), and a flange that protrudes sideways from the side surface of the support pillar. In the present specification, such a multi-functional cap is referred to as a "flange-equipped multi-functional cap". The flange-equipped multi-functional cap is installed to the tube in a posture in which the support pillar and the flange are inserted from the opening of the tube into the tube, and the flange abuts against the inner wall of the tube.

[0013] Here, there are cases where a flange-equipped multi-functional cap that can cope with a larger range of diameters (referred to as a "range" in the present specification) is desired. For example, the range of the flange-equipped multi-functional cap shown in Non-Patent Document 1 is 1 mm, but there are cases where a flange-equipped multi-functional cap that can cope with a range of 2 mm or more is desired.

[0014] It is not easy to realize a flange-equipped multifunctional cap that can cope with a wide range of pipes. If a flange-equipped multifunctional cap is designed in a manner suitable for a pipe of a wide diameter, there is a case where it is not suitable for a pipe of a narrow diameter, and conversely, if a flange-equipped multifunctional cap is designed in a manner suitable for a pipe of a narrow diameter, there is a case where it is not suitable for a pipe of a wide diameter. In detail, it is not easy to realize a flange-equipped multifunctional cap that can be fitted to a pipe of a large diameter within a range and that can be appropriately inserted into a pipe of a small diameter within the range without causing unexpected deformation at the time of insertion.

[0015] In particular, it is sometimes desired to realize a flange-equipped multifunctional cap that can cope with a wide range of pipes, i.e., a flange-equipped multifunctional cap that can appropriately exert a water-stopping function, which is a function of suppressing leakage of a liquid sample put into a pipe to the outside from an opening of the pipe, at the time of insertion into an arbitrary pipe within a corresponding range.

[0016] An object of the present application is to provide a flange-equipped multifunctional cap that can cope with a wide range and that can appropriately exert a water-stopping function at the time of insertion into a pipe within a corresponding range.

[0017] Means for solving the problem

[0018] The present application is a flange-equipped multifunctional cap for a pipe, characterized by comprising: a support that is elongated downward from a cap head portion, has a circular shape in a vertical cross section with respect to an elongation direction, and is hollow, and that can be elastically deformed by a force from a side; a first flange that protrudes from a side surface of the support to the side and that abuts against an inner wall of a pipe; and a second flange that protrudes from a side surface of the support to the side below the first flange and that abuts against the inner wall of the pipe, and that extends upward as it goes from the side surface of the support to the side, and that has a bowl shape as a whole.

[0019] Effects of the Invention

[0020] According to the present application, it is possible to provide a flange-equipped multifunctional cap that can cope with a wide range and that can appropriately exert a water-stopping function at the time of insertion into a pipe within a corresponding range. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a multifunctional cap of the present embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a multifunctional cap of the present embodiment.

[0023] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view as viewed in the A-A direction of Figure 2 .

[0024] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view as viewed in the B-B direction of Figure 3 .

[0025] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the area C. Figure 2

[0026] Figure 6 is a side view showing a multifunctional cap installed to a pipe corresponding to a maximum diameter.

[0027] Figure 7 is a side view showing a multifunctional cap installed to a pipe corresponding to a minimum diameter.

[0028] Figure 8 is a bottom view of a multifunctional cap installed to a pipe corresponding to a minimum diameter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] <Summary of multifunctional cap>

[0030] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a multifunctional cap 10 of the present embodiment. In addition, in Figure 1 , a pipe T is shown below the multifunctional cap 10. Also, Figure 2 is a vertical sectional view of the multifunctional cap 10. As described above, in the present specification, the elongation direction of the pipe T is described as the vertical direction, and the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction is described as the horizontal direction. The multifunctional cap 10 is configured to include a cap head portion 12, a support 14 elongated downward from the cap head portion 12, a first flange 16 protruding sideways from the side surface of the support 14, and a second flange 18 protruding sideways from the side surface of the support 14 at a position lower than the first flange 16.

[0031] The multifunctional cap 10 is a cap installed to a pipe T in a manner to plug an opening portion O of the pipe T which is open upward. Specifically, the multifunctional cap 10 is installed to the pipe T by inserting the support 14, the first flange 16, and the second flange 18 into the pipe T from the opening portion O. In the installed state, the front ends of the first flange 16 and the second flange 18 abut against the inner wall I of the pipe T. In addition, in the installed state, the cap head portion 12 is not inserted into the pipe T, and the lower surface 12a of the cap head portion 12 abuts against the upper surface U of the pipe T.

[0032] The multifunctional cap 10 can be installed to pipes T of multiple diameters, specifically, pipes T in a range from a predetermined minimum diameter to a maximum diameter. In particular, according to the features described later, the multifunctional cap 10 is suitable for a wide range (for example, 2 mm or more) of pipes T.

[0033] ​Thus, the multi-functional cap 10 is a flange-equipped multi-functional cap for a tube. According to the features described below, the multi-functional cap 10, when installed in a tube T within a corresponding range, is able to assume an appropriate posture by deforming in an appropriate shape (particularly, the first flange 16). In addition, according to the features described below, the multi-functional cap 10 is able to appropriately exert a water stop function that suppresses leakage of a liquid sample put into the tube T out of the opening portion O by deforming in an appropriate shape (particularly, the second flange 18). In addition, according to the features described below, the multi-functional cap 10 suppresses floating of the multi-functional cap 10 inserted into the tube T upward. Furthermore, according to the features described below, the multi-functional cap 10 reduces the force, i.e., insertion force, required to insert the support 14, the first flange 16, and the second flange 18 into the tube T.

[0034] <Details of the structure of each part of the multi-functional cap>

[0035] <<Cap head portion>>

[0036] In the present embodiment, the cap head portion 12 has a cylindrical shape. In the present embodiment, installation and removal of the multi-functional cap 10 to and from the tube T are performed by a robot hand as a mechanical device. Specifically, the side surface 12b of the cap head portion 12 is held by a plurality of claws possessed by the robot hand, and the support 14, the first flange 16, and the second flange 18 are inserted into the tube T from the opening portion O, whereby the multi-functional cap 10 is installed in the tube T. In addition, the plurality of claws of the robot hand hold the side surface 12b while twisting in a manner that rotates the cap head portion 12 in the horizontal plane, and the multi-functional cap 10 is pulled upward, whereby the multi-functional cap 10 is removed from the tube T. Note that the shape of the cap head portion 12 can be any shape as long as the side surface 12b can be held by the robot hand.

[0037] In the case where the multi-functional cap 10 is installed in the tube T by the robot hand, there is a limit to the pressing force of the multi-functional cap 10 to the tube T by the robot hand. Therefore, in the case where the multi-functional cap 10 is installed in the tube T by the robot hand, it is more meaningful to reduce the insertion force of the multi-functional cap 10 to the tube T than in the case where a person installs it. Furthermore, the robot hand cannot perform delicate control at the time of insertion more often than a person. Therefore, in the case where the multi-functional cap 10 is installed in the tube T, it is also more meaningful to perform unintended deformation without assuming an inappropriate posture than in the case where a person installs it. In the case where the multi-functional cap 10 is installed in the tube T in an inappropriate posture, the case where the robot hand cannot appropriately hold the side surface 12b of the cap head portion 12 is also considered at the time of removal of the multi-functional cap 10.

[0038] <<Support>>

[0039] The pillar 14 is a member elongated downward from the cap head 12. The pillar 14 functions as a base (a pedestal) of the first flange 16 and the second flange 18. The outer shape of the pillar 14 in a vertical cross section (i.e., a horizontal cross section) with respect to the elongation direction (the up-down direction) is circular. The diameter of the pillar 14 is relatively large, and is a diameter of 70 to 86% of the diameter of the pipe.

[0040] The pillar 14 can be formed of a soft, easily deformable, and water-resistant material. For example, the pillar 14 is formed of a high molecular compound. In the present embodiment, the pillar 14 is formed of LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene). The pillar 14 is formed of the above-described material, and thus the pillar 14 can be elastically deformed by a force from the side. Specifically, the pillar 14 can be elastically deformed in a manner that the horizontal cross section becomes elliptical by a force from the side.

[0041] The pillar 14 can have an internal space 14a. That is, the pillar 14 can be hollow. As shown in FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, the pillar 14 is hollow, and has a shape that is open downward. Thus, the pillar 14 is cylindrical. As shown in FIG. 1, in the cap head 12, an internal space 12c that is open downward is formed in the radial center portion, and the internal space 12c communicates with the internal space 14a of the pillar 14, and forms one space that is open downward. Figure 2 Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1, in the present embodiment, the pillar 14 is hollow, and has a shape that is open downward. Thus, the pillar 14 is cylindrical. As shown in FIG. 1, in the cap head 12, an internal space 12c that is open downward is formed in the radial center portion, and the internal space 12c communicates with the internal space 14a of the pillar 14, and forms one space that is open downward.

[0042] The thickness of the side wall 14b of the pillar 14 can be a thin wall of several millimeters or less. For example, the side wall 14b can be 1.0 mm or less, and preferably about 0.5 mm. In addition, the side wall 14b can be thinner as it approaches the lower end side. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a slope 14c toward the side and the lower side of the pillar 14 is formed in the lower end portion of the side wall 14b, and by the slope 14c, the wall thickness of the side wall 14b gradually thins as it approaches the lower end portion of the side wall 14b. Figure 2

[0043] On the other hand, the root portion 14d of the cap head 12 side end portion of the side wall 14b, in other words, the root portion 14d of the connecting portion of the cap head 12 and the pillar 14 is thicker than the other portions of the side wall 14b. Thus, when the multifunctional cap 10 is removed, when the robot hand twists the cap head 12, by suppressing the deformation of the root portion 14d, the multifunctional cap 10 is more easily removed. Or, the possibility of breakage of the root portion 14d is reduced when the multifunctional cap 10 is removed.

[0044] <<First flange>>

[0045] ​​The first flange 16 is a component that protrudes laterally from the side of the support column 14. The first flange 16 can be formed integrally with the support column 14. Therefore, the first flange 16 is also formed of a soft, easily deformable, and water-resistant polymer compound, which in this embodiment is formed of LDPE.

[0046] like Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the first flange 16 is flat and is configured to protrude from the support column 14 in a generally horizontal direction. Furthermore, the first flange 16 protrudes laterally from the support column 14 along its entire circumference, and its shape is circular when viewed from above. Therefore, the first flange 16 has an overall flat, annular shape.

[0047] Figure 3 From Figure 2 A cross-sectional view viewed along the AA direction (top view of the first flange 16). The first flange 16 has a slit 30 that is cut in a radially extending manner and extends vertically. In this embodiment, the slit 30 has a shape that becomes wider towards the radially outer side of the first flange 16 when viewed from above.

[0048] Multiple slits 30 can be equally spaced along the circumference of the first flange 16. For example... Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, two slits 30 are provided at equal intervals along the circumference of the first flange 16. Of course, three or more slits 30 may also be provided at equal intervals along the circumference of the first flange 16.

[0049] Figure 4 From Figure 3 A sectional view viewed in the BB direction (side view of the first flange 16). The slit 30 can be configured to extend in a direction that is not parallel to the vertical direction when viewed from the side. That is, as... Figure 4 As shown, an angle θ (θ≠0°) is required between the extending direction S of the slit 30 and the vertical direction V. In other words, the inner surfaces 30a of the opposing slits 30 are formed to be non-parallel to the vertical direction. In this embodiment, θ is 45°.

[0050] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of region C. A groove 32 along the circumference of the support column 14 can be provided on the side of the support column 14 (the outer side of the side wall 14b) and at a position adjacent to the upper side of the connection position of the first flange 16.

[0051] Additionally, the lateral outer surface 16a of the first flange 16 can be an inclined surface facing to the side and downward in its natural state (when no external force is applied to the first flange 16).

[0052] Furthermore, the diameter L1 of the first flange 16 can be larger than the diameter L2 of the second flange 18. Specifically, among the portions inserted into the interior of the tube T (support 14, first flange 16, and second flange 18) in the installed state, the first flange 16 becomes the component with the largest diameter. Additionally, in this specification, the diameter L1 of the first flange 16 is the horizontal distance from the outer surface of the support 14 to the lateral end point of the first flange 16, and the diameter L2 of the second flange 18 is the horizontal distance from the outer surface of the support 14 to the lateral end point of the second flange 18. The diameters L1 of the first flange 16 and L2 of the second flange 18 are uniformly distributed along the entire circumference of the support 14.

[0053] <<Second Flange>>

[0054] The second flange 18 is a component that protrudes laterally from the side of the support column 14 below the first flange 16. Like the first flange 16, the second flange 18 can also be formed integrally with the support column 14. Therefore, the second flange 18 is also formed of a soft and easily deformable water-resistant polymer compound, which in this embodiment is formed of LDPE.

[0055] like Figure 5 As shown, the second flange 18 has a shape that extends upward from the side of the support 14 toward the side. Similar to the first flange 16, the second flange 18 also protrudes laterally from the support 14 throughout its entire circumference, and its shape is circular when viewed from above. Therefore, the second flange 18 is generally bowl-shaped.

[0056] More specifically, in this embodiment, the second flange 18 has a portion on the side of the support 14, namely an inner peripheral portion 40, and a portion further to the side of the inner peripheral portion 40, namely an outer peripheral portion 42. In this embodiment, the inner peripheral portion 40 extends laterally from the support 14 in a first direction D1 that is slightly upward than the horizontal direction in a radial section. Furthermore, the first direction D1 in which the inner peripheral portion 40 extends can also be horizontal. The outer peripheral portion 42 is connected to the side end of the inner peripheral portion 40 and extends laterally in a second direction D2 in a radial section. The second direction D2 in which the outer peripheral portion 42 extends is a direction that bends upward relative to the extension direction of the inner peripheral portion 40, namely the first direction D1. That is, the second direction D2 is a direction that is more upward than the first direction D1. Therefore, it can be said that the outer peripheral portion 42 is more easily deformed by upward displacement compared to the inner peripheral portion 40.

[0057] The lateral outer surface 42a of the outer peripheral portion 42 (in other words, the lateral outer surface of the second flange 18) can be a surface parallel to the vertical direction in its natural state (the state in which no external force is applied to the second flange 18). In addition, an inclined surface 42b that communicates with the upper side of the lateral outer surface 42a and faces to the side and upward can be formed at the front end of the outer peripheral portion 42 (in other words, the front end of the second flange 18).

[0058] The diameter L2 of the second flange 18 is slightly larger than the diameter of the pipe T to which the multifunctional cover 10 corresponds (referred to as "corresponding maximum diameter pipe" in this specification). For example, the diameter L2 is about 0.1 mm larger than the diameter of the corresponding maximum diameter pipe. Further, as described above, since the diameter LI of the first flange 16 is larger than the diameter L2 of the second flange 18, the diameter LI of the first flange 16 is of course larger than the diameter of the corresponding maximum diameter pipe.

[0059] In addition, the diameter L3 of the inner peripheral portion 40 can be smaller than the diameter of the pipe T to which the multifunctional cover 10 corresponds (referred to as "corresponding minimum diameter pipe" in this specification). Further, the diameter L3 of the inner peripheral portion 40 is the horizontal distance between the outer side surface of the pillar 14 and the side surface side end point (connection point with the outer peripheral portion 42) of the inner peripheral portion 40. The diameter L3 of the inner peripheral portion 40 is also uniform over the entire circumference of the pillar 14.

[0060] Hereinafter, the effects of each portion of the multifunctional cover 10 (each function that the multifunctional cover 10 exerts) will be described with reference to Figure 6 and Figure 7 and appropriate reference to Figures 1 to 5 Figure 6 is a side surface view of the multifunctional cover 10 mounted to the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, Figure 7 is a side surface view of the multifunctional cover 10 mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin.

[0061] Hereinafter, the effects of each portion of the multifunctional cover 10 in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmaxand in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tminwill be described. Here, even in the case of observing the same function, the effects of each portion of the multifunctional cover 10 are sometimes different between the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmaxand the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin. In this case, it should be understood that, as the diameter of the pipe T to which the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted becomes smaller from the corresponding maximum diameter toward the corresponding minimum diameter, the effects of each portion of the multifunctional cover 10 gradually change from the effects in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmaxtoward the effects in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin.

[0062] <Effects of multifunctional cover (posture holding function)>

[0063] <<In the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax>>

[0064] ​As described above, the diameter LI of the first flange 16 and the diameter L2 of the second flange 18 are each larger than the diameter of the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax. Therefore, in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax (refer to Figure 6 ), the side end (side outer surface 16a) of the first flange 16 and the side end (side outer surface 42a) of the second flange 18 both abut against the inner wall I of the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax. Thereby, the posture of the multifunctional cover 10 is maintained.

[0065] Suppose that in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 has only the second flange 18 (in the case where the first flange 16 is not provided), the multifunctional cover 10 sometimes moves with respect to the pipe T with the abutting position of the second flange 18 against the inner wall I as a fulcrum (in accordance with the principle of a lever) to displace the cover head 12 to the side, and the posture of the multifunctional cover 10 cannot be maintained. In the present embodiment, the multifunctional cover 10 has not only the second flange 18 but also the first flange 16, and the two flanges abut against the inner wall I. Therefore, the above-described movement of the multifunctional cover 10 with the second flange 18 as a fulcrum is suppressed by the abutment of the first flange 16 against the inner wall I.

[0066] In particular, in the present embodiment, the diameter LI of the first flange 16 is larger than the diameter L2 of the second flange 18 (refer to Figure 5 ). Thereby, the first flange 16 can more strongly suppress the change in the posture of the multifunctional cover 10 with the abutting position of the second flange 18 against the inner wall I as a fulcrum.

[0067] In this way, the first flange 16, in cooperation with the second flange 18, exerts the posture maintaining function of maintaining the posture of the multifunctional cover 10 with respect to the pipe T.

[0068] <<In the case of being mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin>>

[0069] In the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin (refer to Figure 7 ), as in the case of being mounted to the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, the first flange 16 and the second flange 18 abut against the inner wall I, and therefore the posture of the multifunctional cover 10 is maintained by the above-described principle. That is, in this case, the first flange 16, in cooperation with the second flange 18, exerts the posture maintaining function of maintaining the posture of the multifunctional cover 10 with respect to the pipe T.

[0070] On the other hand, in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin, suppose that the first flange 16 undergoes an unintended deformation, then at least a part of the first flange 16 cannot properly abut against the inner wall I, and it can be impossible to maintain the posture of the multifunctional cover 10. In this case, as in the case of being mounted to the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, the second flange 18 abuts against the inner wall I, and therefore the posture of the multifunctional cover 10 is maintained by the above-described principle. That is, in this case, the second flange 18 exerts the posture maintaining function of maintaining the posture of the multifunctional cover 10 with respect to the pipe T. Figure 7As shown, the envisaged deformation of the first flange 16 refers to a deformation in which the side end portion becomes the upper side compared with the root portion (the strut 14 side) in the entire circumferential direction of the first flange 16 (referred to as "upward deformation"). A deformation in which the side end portion becomes the lower side compared with the root portion in at least a portion of the first flange 16 (referred to as "downward deformation") is envisaged outside.

[0071] When the first flange 16 is inserted into the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin, the first flange 16 is deformed due to a force received from the inner wall I. At this time, as in the case of the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin, in a case where only a narrow space is present between the strut 14 and the inner wall I, a wrinkle of displacement of the first flange 16 in the circumferential direction of the first flange 16 is sometimes generated. Assuming a case where the first flange 16 is not provided with the slits 30, it is not possible to absorb the wrinkle of displacement in the circumferential direction of the first flange 16, and it is possible that a downward deformation is accidentally generated in a portion of the first flange 16. In this case, in a side view, the side end of the first flange 16 becomes a shape that is extremely undulated, and it is possible that a portion in which the side end of the first flange 16 cannot properly abut against the inner wall I is generated.

[0072] In the present embodiment, by the slits 30 (refer to Figure 3 ) provided in the first flange 16 being closed (the inner side surfaces 30a (refer to Figure 4 ) of the mutually opposing slits 30 moving in a direction in which they approach), it is possible to absorb the wrinkle of displacement in the circumferential direction of the first flange 16. In other words, the slits 30 function as a retreat place for displacement in the circumferential direction of the first flange 16. The slits 30 are closed to absorb the wrinkle of displacement in the circumferential direction of the first flange 16, and thus the deformation of the first flange 16 that is envisaged outside is suppressed. In this way, by the function of the slits 30, it is possible to exert the posture maintaining function based on the first flange 16.

[0073] In addition, in the present embodiment, the groove 32 is provided at a position on the side surface of the strut 14 and adjacent to the upper side of the connection position of the first flange 16. The groove 32 exerts a function of assisting (promoting) the upward deformation of the first flange 16. That is, by the groove 32, the downward deformation of at least a portion of the first flange 16 is suppressed. In this way, by the function of the groove 32, it is also possible to exert the posture maintaining function based on the first flange 16.

[0074] <Function of the multifunctional cover (water stop function)>

[0075] <<Case where installed in corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax>>

[0076] When the multi-functional cap 10 is installed on the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, the second flange 18 primarily functions as a water-stopping device. As described above, the diameter L2 of the second flange 18 is slightly larger than the diameter of the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax. Therefore, when the multi-functional cap 10 is installed on the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, its side end abuts against the inner wall I in the circumferential direction of the second flange 18. This suppresses leakage of liquid samples placed in the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the diameter L2 of the second flange 18 is 0.1 mm larger than the diameter of the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, but this is the minimum size required to perform the water-stopping function. However, the minimum size required to perform the water-stopping function can vary depending on the material of the second flange 18, etc.

[0077] In this embodiment, the outer lateral surface 42a of the second flange 18 is parallel to the vertical direction in its natural state. Since the diameter L2 of the second flange 18 is slightly larger than the diameter of the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, even when the second flange 18 is inserted into the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, the second flange 18 will not deform as much, and the outer lateral surface 42a abuts against the inner wall I. That is, the outer lateral surface 42a and the inner wall I abut against each other in a substantially parallel state, which increases the contact area between the outer lateral surface 42a and the inner wall I. Therefore, the water-stopping performance of the second flange 18 is improved. Specifically, the amount of liquid sample leaking from the gap between the outer lateral surface 42a and the inner wall I is reduced.

[0078] Additionally, the lower surface 12a of the cap head 12 abuts against the upper surface U of the tube T (see reference). Figure 1 It can also function as a water stopper.

[0079] <<Installation in the case of the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin>>

[0080] When the multi-functional cap 10 is installed on the corresponding minimum diameter tube Tmin, the second flange 18 mainly performs the water-stopping function. However, if the second flange 18 cannot completely prevent the leakage of the liquid sample, the first flange 16 also performs an auxiliary water-stopping function.

[0081] When the multi-functional cover 10 is installed on the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin, the second flange 18 abuts against the inner wall I, just as when it is installed on the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, thereby performing the water-stopping function through the above principle.

[0082] When the multi-functional cover 10 is installed on the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin, assuming that the second flange 18 undergoes unexpected deformation, at least a portion of the second flange 18 may not be able to properly abut against the inner wall I, and may therefore fail to perform its waterproofing function properly. Here, as... Figure 7As shown, the supposed deformation of the second flange 18 refers to an upward deformation throughout the entire circumference of the second flange 18. A downward deformation of at least a portion of the second flange 18 is an out-of-supposition deformation.

[0083] First, the second flange 18 as a whole has a bowl shape, whereby an out-of-supposition deformation of the second flange 18 in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin can be suppressed. That is, the second flange 18 has a shape extending upward toward the lateral side in a natural state, and thus, when the second flange 18 enters the opening portion O from above, a downward deformation of the second flange 18 is suppressed.

[0084] Figure 8 is a plan view of the multifunctional cover 10 mounted to the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin. If the second flange 18 is deformed by a force from the inner wall I of the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin, the force is transmitted to the strut 14, and the strut 14 also receives a force from the lateral side. If the hollow, that is, the strut 14, receives a force from the lateral side, as shown in Figure 8 the elastic deformation is an oval shape in a horizontal cross-sectional shape. This elastic deformation of the strut 14 suppresses an out-of-supposition deformation of the second flange 18.

[0085] Specifically, it is assumed that, in the case where the space between the outer side surface of the strut 14 and the inner wall I of the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin is insufficient as a space in which the second flange 18 is accommodated, in the case where the strut 14 is not deformed, the second flange 18 is sometimes forcibly pressed into this space, and thus, the second flange 18 is deformed out of supposition. In the present embodiment, the strut 14 is elastically deformed, and for a portion of the circumference thereof, the space between the strut 14 and the inner wall I is expanded. That is, along the circumference, the distance from the strut 14 to the inner wall I differs. Thus, along the circumference, the inclination of the second flange 18 also differs, and the second flange 18 can retreat in the vertical direction. In more detail, the inner peripheral portion 40 of the second flange 18, which is less likely to be deformed upward than the outer peripheral portion 42, is deformed along with the elastic deformation of the strut 14 (of course, the inner peripheral portion 40 can also be deformed upward by a force from the inner wall I), and specifically, a portion of the circumference of the strut 14 (the upper side and the lower side of the strut 14 in the example of Figure 8 this way, as described above, the outer peripheral portion 42 can retreat in the vertical direction, and an out-of-supposition deformation of the outer peripheral portion 42 is suppressed. Further, as shown in Figure 7 along with the elastic deformation of the strut 14, the side end portion of the second flange 18 slightly undulates when viewed from the side, but this is an in-supposition deformation.

[0086] In the present embodiment, the pillar 14 has an open shape downward. Thereby, it can be said that the lower side of the pillar 14 is more easily elastically deformed than the upper side thereof. The second flange 18 is located on the lower side of the pillar 14, at least on the lower side than the first flange 16, and thus it can be said that the pillar 14 has an open shape downward, whereby the pillar 14 is easily elastically deformed in the vicinity of the second flange 18. Thereby, the unintended deformation of the second flange 18 is further suppressed.

[0087] Further, in the present embodiment, the side wall 14b of the pillar 14 is thinner as it is closer to the lower end side. Thereby, it can be said that the lower side of the pillar 14 is more easily elastically deformed than the upper side thereof. In this way, the side wall 14b is thinner as it is closer to the lower end side, and thereby the unintended deformation of the second flange 18 is further suppressed.

[0088] As described above, in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is attached to the pipe Tmincorresponding to the minimum diameter, by suppressing the unintended deformation of the second flange 18, the water stopping function based on the second flange 18 is appropriately exerted.

[0089] As described above, when the multifunctional cover 10 is attached to the pipe Tmincorresponding to the minimum diameter, on the basis that the slit 30 provided to the first flange 16 is closed, the side end portion of the first flange 16 is in abutment with the inner wall I. Thereby, the first flange 16 also exerts the water stopping function assistively.

[0090] In particular, in the present embodiment, the slit 30 is provided to extend in a direction that is not parallel to the up-down direction when viewed in side view. Thereby, when the slit 30 is closed, the abutment faces of the inner side faces 30a (refer to Figure 4 ) with each other have an angle with respect to the up-down direction when viewed in side view. Therefore, the liquid sample flows through the gap of the abutment faces of the inner side faces 30a with each other at least in the up-down direction. In other words, in order for the liquid sample to leak upward of the first flange 16, the liquid sample must advance in the gap of the abutment faces of the inner side faces 30a in an inclined direction having an angle with respect to the up-down direction. In this way, by providing the slit 30 to extend in a direction that is not parallel to the up-down direction when viewed in side view, as compared to the case where at least the slit 30 is provided to extend in the up-down direction, the water stopping performance based on the first flange 16 is improved.

[0091] Further, by the lower surface 12a of the cover head portion 12 being in abutment with the upper surface U of the pipe T, the water stopping function can also be exerted.

[0092] <Effect of multifunctional cover (anti-floating function)>

[0093] Sometimes the multifunctional cap 10 installed in the pipe T floats up. As a primary cause thereof, there is a case where, when the multifunctional cap 10 is installed in the pipe T, the multifunctional cap 10 (particularly the first flange 16 or the second flange 18) is deformed beyond expectation, and thus the first flange 16 or the second flange 18 pushes back the inner wall I, thereby applying an upward force to the multifunctional cap 10. Alternatively, as a primary cause of the floating up, there is also an internal pressure caused by compressed air that can be generated by the air being compressed in the pipe T when the multifunctional cap 10 is installed in the pipe T. Also, in a case where a taper is provided near the opening portion O of the pipe T, the taper can also become a primary cause of the floating up.

[0094] <<Installation in a pipe Tmax corresponding to the maximum diameter>>

[0095] In a case where the multifunctional cap 10 is installed in a pipe Tmax corresponding to the maximum diameter, the deformation amount of the first flange 16 and the second flange 18 is not so large, and thus the possibility of the floating up caused by the unexpected deformation of the first flange 16 and the second flange 18 is low. In this case, the internal pressure caused by the compressed air becomes a primary cause of the floating up.

[0096] In the present embodiment, the strut 14 has an internal space 14a (hollow) and is open downward (see FIG. 1). Figure 2 Therefore, when the multifunctional cap 10 is installed in the pipe Tmax corresponding to the maximum diameter, the space in the pipe Tmax corresponding to the maximum diameter communicates with the internal space 14a. That is, when the multifunctional cap 10 is installed, the volume of the space in the pipe Tmax corresponding to the maximum diameter increases compared to a case where at least the strut 14 is not open downward. Thereby, the internal pressure of the pipe Tmax corresponding to the maximum diameter decreases compared to the case where at least the strut 14 is not open downward, and the floating up of the multifunctional cap 10 is suppressed.

[0097] In particular, in the present embodiment, the cap head portion 12 also has an internal space 12c that communicates with the internal space 14a of the strut 14. Thereby, when the multifunctional cap 10 is installed, the volume of the space in the pipe Tmax corresponding to the maximum diameter further increases by the amount of the internal space 12c, and thus the internal pressure of the pipe Tmax corresponding to the maximum diameter further decreases, and the floating up of the multifunctional cap 10 is further suppressed.

[0098] Further, in the present embodiment, the side outer side surface 16a of the first flange 16 becomes an inclined surface that faces sideways and downward in the natural state. When the first flange 16 is inserted into the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, the side end of the first flange 16 comes into abutment with the inner wall I, and as a result, the side end is slightly displaced upward. By this displacement, the side outer side surface 16a comes into abutment with the inner wall I in a substantially parallel state, and the contact area of the side outer side surface 16a and the inner wall I can be further enlarged. As a result, the frictional force between the side outer side surface 16a and the inner wall I increases, and the floating of the multifunctional cover 10 is suppressed.

[0099] Further, in the present embodiment, the side outer side surface 42a of the second flange 18 becomes a surface that is parallel to the vertical direction in the natural state, and as described above, when the second flange 18 is inserted into the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax, the side outer side surface 42a comes into abutment with the inner wall I in a substantially parallel state. As a result, the frictional force between the side outer side surface 42a and the inner wall I increases, and the floating of the multifunctional cover 10 is suppressed.

[0100] Further, in the present embodiment, an inclined surface 42b that communicates with the upper side of the side outer side surface 42a and faces sideways and upward is formed at the front end portion of the second flange 18 (refer to FIG. 6). Figure 5 In the pipe T, sometimes, a protruding portion that protrudes inward from the inner wall I is provided. This protruding portion is sometimes also a protruding ridge portion that extends around the entire circumference of the inner wall I of the pipe T. By providing the inclined surface 42b at the second flange 18, the side end of the second flange 18 is more easily hooked on the protruding portion provided at the inner wall I. By the second flange 18 being hooked on the protruding portion, the floating of the multifunctional cover 10 is suppressed.

[0101] <<In the case of being installed in the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin>>

[0102] In the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is installed in the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin, the unintended deformation of the first flange 16 and the second flange 18, and the internal pressure caused by the compressed air become the main causes of the floating. With respect to the internal pressure of the compressed air, the volume of the space inside the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin increases by the internal space 14a of the strut 14 and the internal space 12c of the cover head portion 12, the internal pressure of the corresponding minimum diameter pipe Tmin decreases, and the floating of the multifunctional cover 10 is suppressed, which is the same as in the case where the multifunctional cover 10 is installed in the corresponding maximum diameter pipe Tmax.

[0103] Regarding the unexpected deformation of the first flange 16 and the second flange 18, as described in the explanation of the posture-maintaining function and the water-stopping function, for the first flange 16, the unexpected deformation is suppressed by the action of the slit 30 or the groove 32, and for the second flange 18, the unexpected deformation is suppressed by the elastic deformation of the overall bowl shape or the support 14. In this way, by suppressing the unexpected deformation of the first flange 16 and the second flange 18, the floating of the multifunctional cover 10 is suppressed.

[0104] <Function of the multi-functional cap (reduced insertion force)>

[0105] The insertion force becomes a problem when installing the multi-functional cover 10 into the pipe T (by inserting the support 14, the first flange 16, and the second flange 18 into the pipe T), mainly when installing the multi-functional cover 10 into a pipe T with a relatively small diameter. Therefore, the case of installing the multi-functional cover 10 into a pipe Tmin with the smallest diameter will be explained.

[0106] The insertion force of the multi-functional cover 10 is determined by the ease with which the first flange 16 and the second flange 18 deform.

[0107] Regarding the first flange 16, the slit 30 suppresses unintended deformation and facilitates deformation. That is, the slit 30 reduces the insertion force of the multi-functional cover 10. Additionally, the groove 32 promotes upward deformation of the first flange 16. That is, the groove 32 facilitates deformation of the first flange 16, thus also reducing the insertion force of the multi-functional cover 10.

[0108] The inner circumference 40 of the second flange 18 is less prone to upward deformation than the outer circumference 42 due to its elongation direction. Therefore, in order to install the multi-functional cover 10 onto the corresponding minimum diameter tube Tmin, a relatively large insertion force is required if the inner circumference 40 needs to be deformed upward significantly. However, in this embodiment, the diameter L3 of the inner circumference 40 of the second flange 18 (refer to...) Figure 5 The diameter L3 of the inner circumference 40 is smaller than that of the corresponding minimum diameter tube Tmin. Therefore, even when the second flange 18 is inserted into the corresponding minimum diameter tube Tmin, the inner circumference 40 will not reach the inner wall I, and the inner circumference 40 will not deform significantly upwards, allowing the multi-functional cover 10 to be installed in the corresponding minimum diameter tube Tmin. In this way, by making the diameter L3 of the inner circumference 40 smaller than the diameter of the corresponding minimum diameter tube Tmin, the insertion force of the multi-functional cover 10 can also be reduced.

[0109] <Functions of the multi-functional lid (other functions)>

[0110] The multi-purpose lid 10 also functions to center the multi-purpose lid 10 near the center of the tube T in plan view, in addition to the above-described functions, by virtue of the above-described configuration. Specifically, the second flange 18 has a bowl shape as a whole, thereby functioning to center. In detail, if the second flange 18 is inserted into the tube T from the opening portion O in a state of being offset from the center, the lower surface of the second flange 18 abuts against the edge of the opening portion O. At this time, since the second flange 18 has a bowl shape, the second flange 18 is subjected to a force from the edge of the opening portion O toward the center side of the tube T. By virtue of this force, the multi-purpose lid 10 is brought near the center side of the tube T.

[0111] Further, as described above, by virtue of the various structures possessed by the multi-purpose lid 10, deformation of the multi-purpose lid 10 beyond the intended range is suppressed. This functions to suppress individual differences in deformation of the multi-purpose lid 10 caused by individual differences in dimensional deviations of the multi-purpose lid 10. For example, by virtue of the fact that the first flange 16 is provided with the slit 30, even if there is a dimensional deviation in the diameter LI of the first flange 16, the first flange 16 is able to deform within the intended range, regardless of which multi-purpose lid 10. As for the second flange 18, the second flange 18 also has the above-described shape, and deforms in conjunction with the strut 14, whereby even if there is a dimensional deviation in the diameter L2 of the second flange 18, the second flange 18 is able to deform within the intended range, regardless of which multi-purpose lid 10.

[0112] The above-described embodiments relating to the present application have been described, but the present application is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present application.

[0113] Explanation of Symbols

[0114] 10 - Multi-purpose lid; 12 - Lid head portion; 14 - Strut; 16 - First flange; 18 - Second flange; 30 - Slit; 32 - Groove; 40 - Inner peripheral portion; 42 - Outer peripheral portion.

Claims

1. A multi-functional flanged cap for tubing, characterized in that, have: The support extends downward from the top of the cover. Its cross-section is circular and hollow relative to the direction of extension, and it can be elastically deformed by forces from the side. A first flange, which projects laterally from the side of the support and abuts against the inner wall of the tube, and whose outer lateral surface forms an inclined surface facing laterally and downward in its natural state, the first flange having a slit cut in a radially extending manner and extending vertically, the slit being configured to extend in a direction not parallel to the vertical direction when viewed from the side; and The second flange, which is located below the first flange, protrudes laterally from the side of the support and abuts against the inner wall of the tube, and extends upward as it moves from the side of the support, forming a bowl shape overall.

2. The multi-functional flanged cap for tubing according to claim 1, characterized in that, A groove along the circumference of the support is provided on the side of the support and at a position adjacent to the upper side of the connection position of the first flange.

3. The multi-functional flanged cap for tubing according to claim 1, characterized in that, When viewed from above, the slits are wider as they approach the radial outer edge of the first flange, and multiple slits are provided at equal intervals along the circumference of the first flange.

4. The multi-functional flanged cap for tubing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second flange serves as a water-stopping function to suppress leakage of the sample injected into the tube.

Images