Valve assembly
By designing a combination of linear and bent flow path structures and check valve solenoid valves, the problems of moisture freezing and flow path complexity in hydrogen are solved, efficient hydrogen filling and simplified structures are achieved, and power consumption is reduced.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202380041608.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-03-23
- Filing Date
- 2023-05-11
- Publication Date
- 2024-12-20
AI Technical Summary
When filling the gas tank with hydrogen, the freezing of moisture in the hydrogen may hinder the smooth movement of the valve assembly, and the gas flow path of the existing valve assembly is complex in shape, difficult to manufacture, and it is difficult to suppress the impact of water droplet adhesion and freezing on the solenoid valve.
A valve assembly is designed, which includes a main body with a gas flow path and a plurality of mounting holes. Through a straight and bent flow path design, a filling part and a feeding part are formed, and the hydrogen flow is controlled by a check valve and a solenoid valve to ensure that Water droplets are difficult to flow into the solenoid valve part, and the check valve state is switched under high pressure to prevent freezing, simplifying the shape of the gas flow path and the main structure.
It effectively suppresses water droplet adhesion and freezing, increases hydrogen filling flow, simplifies the structure of the valve assembly, reduces power consumption, and maintains the normal operation of the valve assembly without increasing power consumption.
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Figure CN119173712A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to valve assemblies. Background Art
[0002] For example, a valve assembly for controlling the flow of gas is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Such a valve assembly is mounted on a gas tank of a fuel cell vehicle to control the flow of hydrogen gas, for example.
[0003] The valve assembly of Patent Document 1 includes a main body and a plurality of valve sub-assemblies mounted on the main body. The valve sub-assemblies include a check valve for limiting the outflow of hydrogen from a gas tank, and a solenoid valve for controlling the delivery of hydrogen to a fuel cell. The main body has a gas flow path for hydrogen flow and a plurality of mounting holes for mounting the plurality of valve sub-assemblies, respectively. The valve assembly is assembled by mounting the plurality of valve sub-assemblies in the corresponding mounting holes.
[0004] Prior art literature
[0005] Patent Literature
[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-523509 Summary of the invention
[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention
[0008] In the valve assembly as described above, when hydrogen is filled into the gas tank, water contained in the hydrogen may become water droplets and adhere to the valve subassembly. Moreover, such water may freeze and hinder the smooth operation of the valve subassembly. In addition, in the valve assembly as described above, for example, from the viewpoint of ease of manufacturing of the main body, it is desirable that the shape of the gas flow path is simple.
[0009] Means for solving problems
[0010] A valve assembly of a technical solution of the present disclosure comprises: a main body having a gas flow path, a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole, the gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path, the first mounting hole being connected to the first flow path and the second flow path, and the second mounting hole being connected to the first flow path and the second flow path; and a plurality of valve sub-assemblies. The first flow path is configured to be connected to a gas tank storing gas, and the second flow path is configured to be selectively connected to any one of a plurality of external devices. The plurality of external devices include a supply source of gas filled into the gas tank and a consumption device for consuming the gas delivered from the gas tank. The valve sub-assembly includes: a check valve mounted on the first mounting hole; and a solenoid valve mounted on the second mounting hole. The first flow path includes: a filling portion connecting the first mounting hole to the gas tank; and a delivery portion connecting the second mounting hole to the gas tank. The second flow path includes: a common port, which is an inlet of gas supplied from the supply source and an outlet of gas delivered to the consumer; a linear first portion extending from the common port; a linear second portion bent and extended from the first portion; a linear third portion connecting the first mounting hole and the second portion; and a linear fourth portion connecting the second mounting hole and the second portion. The check valve is configured to restrict the flow of gas from the filling portion to the third portion and allow the flow of gas from the third portion to the filling portion. The solenoid valve is configured to control the flow of gas from the delivery portion to the fourth portion. The third portion intersects the second portion at an angle of less than 90° with respect to the second portion, based on a first connection portion where the second portion is connected to the first portion in the second portion. The fourth portion extends in parallel with the second portion from an end portion on the opposite side of the first connection portion, based on a second connection portion where the second portion is connected to the third portion in the second portion. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic structure of a valve assembly according to one embodiment.
[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of a composite valve in a valve assembly.
[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the safety valve and check valve in the valve assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the valve assembly will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0015] Regarding the "annular" in this specification, it can be regarded as an annular shape as a whole, and also includes a structure in which a plurality of parts or portions are combined to form an annular shape, and a structure such as a C-shaped structure having a notch in a part. When observed axially, the shape of the "annular" includes but is not limited to a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon with sharp or rounded corners. Regarding the "cylindrical" in this specification, it can be regarded as a cylindrical shape as a whole, and includes a shape in which a plurality of parts or portions are combined to form an annular shape, and a structure such as a C-shaped structure having a notch in a part. When observed axially, the shape of the "cylindrical" includes but is not limited to a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon with sharp or rounded corners.
[0016] (Overall structure)
[0017] Figure 1 The valve assembly 1 shown is installed in, for example, a gas tank 2 of a fuel cell vehicle. High-pressure hydrogen gas, for example, about 72.5 MPa, is stored in the gas tank 2. In addition, the valve assembly 1 is selectively connected to any one of a plurality of external devices 3. The plurality of external devices 3 include a supply source 4 of hydrogen gas filled into the gas tank 2 and a consumer device 5 that consumes the hydrogen gas sent from the gas tank 2. The supply source 4 is, for example, a hydrogen filling station, which is connected to the valve assembly 1 via a pipe 6. The consumer device 5 is, for example, a fuel cell mounted on a vehicle, which is connected to the valve assembly 1 via a pipe 7. The valve assembly 1 controls the flow of hydrogen gas filled in the gas tank 2 and hydrogen gas sent from the gas tank 2.
[0018] The valve assembly 1 includes a main body 11 having a gas flow path and a plurality of valve sub-assemblies assembled on the main body 11. The gas flow path includes a first flow path 12 connected to the gas tank 2 and a second flow path 13 connected to the external device 3. The plurality of valve sub-assemblies include, for example, a manual valve 14, a compound valve 15, a safety valve 16, a check valve 17, and an over-current prevention valve 18. The plurality of valve sub-assemblies may also include any valve sub-assemblies on the basis of or in place of these valve sub-assemblies. In addition, as shown in the figure, the valve assembly 1 may also include a connector 19 for connecting the piping 6 or the piping 7.
[0019] (main body)
[0020] The main body 11 is made of, for example, a metal material. The main body 11 is, for example, in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with a portion thereof extending outward. The main body 11 of the present embodiment is a continuous one-piece without a gap. The outer surface of the main body 11 includes a first side surface 11a, a second side surface 11b, a third side surface 11c, and a fourth side surface 11d. The first side surface 11a and the third side surface 11c are, for example, parallel to each other. The second side surface 11b and the fourth side surface 11d are, for example, parallel to each other. The first side surface 11a and the third side surface 11c are, for example, orthogonal to the second side surface 11b and the fourth side surface 11d.
[0021] The main body 11 has a plurality of mounting holes corresponding to the components mounted on the main body 11. The plurality of mounting holes include, for example, a joint mounting hole 21 for mounting the joint 19, a manual valve mounting hole 22 for mounting the manual valve 14, a combined mounting hole 23 as a first mounting hole for mounting the safety valve 16 and the check valve 17, and a composite valve mounting hole 24 as a second mounting hole for mounting the composite valve 15.
[0022] The joint mounting hole 21 is, for example, a circular hole, which opens on the first side surface 11a. The bottom surface of the joint mounting hole 21 is, for example, a plane parallel to the first side surface 11a. The manual valve mounting hole 22 is, for example, a circular hole, which opens on the second side surface 11b. The bottom surface of the manual valve mounting hole 22 is, for example, a plane parallel to the second side surface 11b. The integrated mounting hole 23 is, for example, a circular hole, which opens on the third side surface 11c. Details of the integrated mounting hole 23 will be described later. The composite valve mounting hole 24 is, for example, a circular hole, which opens on the fourth side surface 11d. The bottom surface of the composite valve mounting hole 24 is a plane parallel to the fourth side surface 11d.
[0023] The first flow path 12 includes a filling portion 31 that connects the integrated mounting hole 23 with the gas tank 2 and a delivery portion 32 that connects the composite valve mounting hole 24 with the gas tank 2. The filling portion 31 opens, for example, on the inner circumferential surface of the integrated mounting hole 23. Therefore, the safety valve 16 and the check valve 17 are connected to the gas tank 2 via the filling portion 31. The delivery portion 32 opens, for example, on the inner circumferential surface of the composite valve mounting hole 24. Thus, the composite valve 15 is connected to the gas tank 2 via the delivery portion 32. As shown in the figure, the filling portion 31 and the delivery portion 32 may also be independent flow paths. The flow path cross-sectional area of the filling portion 31 of this embodiment is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of the delivery portion 32 throughout its entire area.
[0024] The second flow path 13 includes a first portion 33, a second portion 34, a third portion 35, and a fourth portion 36. In this embodiment, the entire second flow path 13, the joint mounting hole 21, the manual valve mounting hole 22, the integrated mounting hole 23, and the composite valve mounting hole 24 are arranged in the same plane.
[0025] The first portion 33 opens at the bottom surface of the joint mounting hole 21. Thus, the first portion 33 is connected to the supply source 4 or the consumer device 5 via the joint 19. That is, the open end of the first portion 33 is used as a common port 37, which is an inlet of hydrogen gas supplied from the supply source 4 and an outlet of hydrogen gas sent to the consumer device 5. Therefore, the second flow path 13 includes the common port 37. The first portion 33 extends linearly from the bottom surface of the joint mounting hole 21 in a direction orthogonal to the first side surface 11a.
[0026] The second portion 34 opens at the bottom surface of the manual valve mounting hole 22. The second portion 34 extends linearly from the bottom surface of the manual valve mounting hole 22 in a direction perpendicular to the second side surface 11b, and intersects the first portion 33. Therefore, the second portion 34 is perpendicular to the first portion 33. The inner diameter of the portion of the second portion 34 closer to the inner side than the intersection position with the first portion 33 is smaller than the inner diameter of the portion closer to the front side of the intersection position. That is, the second portion 34 has a step portion.
[0027] The third portion 35 opens, for example, at the bottom surface of the integrated mounting hole 23. The third portion 35 extends linearly from the bottom surface of the integrated mounting hole 23 in a direction perpendicular to the third side surface 11c, and intersects the second portion 34. Therefore, the third portion 35 is perpendicular to the second portion 34. The third portion 35 connects the second portion 34 with the integrated mounting hole 23. As shown in the figure, the third portion 35 is, for example, perpendicular to the small diameter portion of the second portion 34.
[0028] The fourth portion 36 opens, for example, at the bottom surface of the compound valve mounting hole 24. The fourth portion 36 extends linearly from the bottom surface of the compound valve mounting hole 24 in a direction perpendicular to the fourth side surface 11d. That is, the fourth portion 36 extends linearly in a direction parallel to the second portion 34. Furthermore, the fourth portion 36 is connected to the end portion of the second portion 34. The fourth portion 36 connects the second portion 34 to the compound valve mounting hole 24. In the present embodiment, the fourth portion 36 is provided, for example, coaxially with the second portion 34.
[0029] Therefore, the second flow path 13 connects the joint mounting hole 21 (external device) with the composite valve mounting hole 24 (composite valve 15) and the integrated mounting hole 23 (safety valve 16 and check valve 17). The path between the common port 37 and the fourth part 36 in the second flow path 13 is bent at a right angle only at one point between the first part 33 and the second part 34. That is, the path between the common port 37 and the fourth part 36 in the second flow path 13 is L-shaped. In addition, the path between the common port 37 and the third part 35 is bent at a right angle between the first part 33 and the second part 34, and is bent at a right angle between the second part 34 and the third part 35 in a manner away from the first part 33. That is, the path between the common port 37 and the third part 35 is crank-shaped. The connection part of the second part 34 connected to the first part 33 is the first connection part P1, and the connection part of the second part 34 connected to the third part 35 is the second connection part P2. The third portion 35 is based on the first connection point P1, and the angle α with respect to the second portion 34 is approximately 90° in the example shown in the figure. In other words, the third portion 35 is based on the first connection point P1 and intersects the second portion 34 at approximately 90°. The fourth portion 36 is based on the second connection point P2 and extends parallel to the second portion 34 from the end portion, i.e., the terminal portion, on the side opposite to the first connection point P1.
[0030] The joint 19 is made of, for example, a metal material. The joint 19 is, for example, cylindrical. The joint 19 has a joint flow path 38. The joint flow path 38 extends, for example, in a straight line along the axial direction of the joint 19, and is open at both end faces of the joint 19. The joint 19 is fixed to the joint mounting hole 21 by, for example, any fixing method such as threaded fastening or press-fitting. Thus, the joint flow path 38 is connected to the first portion 33. Any one of the pipes 6 and 7 is connected to the joint 19. Thus, the supply source 4 or the consumer device 5 is connected to the second flow path 13 via the joint flow path 38.
[0031] (Multiple valve subassemblies)
[0032] The manual valve 14 includes a manual valve housing 41 and a manual valve core 42. The manual valve housing 41 is, for example, cylindrical. In the present embodiment, the manual valve housing 41 has a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction. The manual valve housing 41 is fixed to the manual valve mounting hole 22 by any fixing method such as threaded fastening or press-fitting. The manual valve core 42 is, for example, cylindrical. The manual valve core 42 is accommodated in the manual valve housing 41 by, for example, threaded fastening so as to be movable along the second portion 34 of the second flow path 13 and to maintain its position in the manual valve housing 41.
[0033] In the manual valve 14 constructed in this manner, the tip end portion of the manual valve core 42 abuts against the step portion of the second portion 34, thereby restricting the flow of hydrogen between the first portion 33 and the second portion 34. On the other hand, the tip end portion of the manual valve core 42 is separated from the step portion of the second portion 34, thereby allowing the flow of hydrogen between the first portion 33 and the second portion 34.
[0034] The composite valve 15 is mounted in the composite valve mounting hole 24. The composite valve 15 includes a solenoid valve portion that functions as a solenoid valve and a check valve portion that functions as a check valve. The solenoid valve portion corresponds to the solenoid valve as a valve subassembly, and the check valve portion corresponds to the second check valve as a valve subassembly. That is, the solenoid valve and the second check valve are mounted in a single composite valve mounting hole 24. The composite valve 15 controls the flow of hydrogen gas between the delivery portion 32 of the first flow path 12 and the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 13. The composite valve 15 will be described in detail later.
[0035] The safety valve 16 has an inlet 165 described later. When the temperature of the safety valve 16 is below the threshold temperature, the safety valve 16 is in a closed state in which the hydrogen gas flowing into the inlet 165 is not released to the outside. When the temperature of the safety valve 16 exceeds the threshold temperature, the safety valve 16 irreversibly changes from the closed state to the open state. In the open state, the safety valve 16 releases the hydrogen gas flowing into the inlet 165 to the outside. The threshold temperature is set in advance so that the pressure of the hydrogen gas in the gas tank 2 does not become too high and the gas tank 2 is not damaged. The details of the safety valve 16 will be described later.
[0036] The check valve 17 as the first check valve is configured to prevent the backflow of the gas filled in the gas tank 2. Specifically, the check valve 17 restricts the flow of hydrogen gas from the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 12 to the third portion 35 of the second flow path 13, and allows the flow of hydrogen gas from the third portion 35 to the filling portion 31. The details of the check valve 17 will be described later.
[0037] The overflow prevention valve 18 is provided in the joint flow path 38. The overflow prevention valve 18 is configured to restrict the flow of hydrogen gas when the flow rate of hydrogen gas flowing in the joint flow path 38 (second flow path 13) in a predetermined direction exceeds a predetermined predetermined amount. The predetermined direction is, for example, the direction in which hydrogen gas is delivered from the gas tank 2 to the consumer 5. The overflow prevention valve 18 does not restrict the flow rate of hydrogen gas in the direction opposite to the predetermined direction, that is, the direction in which hydrogen gas is filled from the supply source 4 to the gas tank 2.
[0038] (Compound valve 15)
[0039] like Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the composite valve 15 includes a sleeve 51 , a plug 52 , a solenoid actuator 53 , an electromagnetic valve element 54 , a check valve element 55 , and a check valve urging member 56 . The composite valve 15 may further include a cover 57 .
[0040] In the composite valve 15, the solenoid valve portion is constituted by the sleeve 51, the plug 52, the solenoid actuator 53 and the solenoid valve core 54. The solenoid valve portion controls the flow of hydrogen between the delivery portion 32 and the fourth portion 36. In addition, in the composite valve 15, the check valve portion is constituted by the plug 52, the check valve core 55 and the check valve force member 56. The check valve portion allows the flow of hydrogen from the delivery portion 32 to the fourth portion 36, and restricts the flow of hydrogen from the fourth portion 36 to the delivery portion 32. Thus, when filling hydrogen, the high-pressure hydrogen is suppressed from acting on the solenoid valve portion. The check valve portion is arranged between the solenoid valve portion and the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 13. In other words, the solenoid valve portion is connected to the fourth portion 36 via the check valve portion. In the present embodiment, the solenoid valve portion and the check valve portion are arranged on the same axis.
[0041] In detail, the sleeve 51 is made of, for example, a metal material. The sleeve 51 is, for example, in the shape of a tube with one end closed. In the present embodiment, the sleeve 51 has a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction. The sleeve 51 has a stepped shape in which its outer diameter changes in stages along the axial direction. Specifically, the sleeve 51 has a small diameter portion 61, an intermediate portion 62, a large diameter portion 63, and a terminal portion 64 in sequence from one end side. The outer diameter of the small diameter portion 61 is smaller than the outer diameter of the intermediate portion 62. The outer diameter of the intermediate portion 62 is smaller than the outer diameter of the large diameter portion 63. The outer diameter of the terminal portion 64 is smaller than the outer diameter of the large diameter portion 63.
[0042] The sleeve 51 is fixed to the composite valve mounting hole 24 by any fixing method such as screwing or press-fitting. When the sleeve 51 is mounted in the composite valve mounting hole 24, the large diameter portion 63 and the terminal portion 64 are inserted into the composite valve mounting hole 24, and the small diameter portion 61 and the intermediate portion 62 protrude from the main body 11. A sealing member 65 and a support ring 66 are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the large diameter portion 63. Thus, the inner peripheral surface of the composite valve mounting hole 24 and the large diameter portion 63 are sealed.
[0043] The plug 52 is made of, for example, a metal material. The plug 52 is, for example, in the shape of a cylindrical column with a step. The plug 52 is fixed to the terminal end 64 of the sleeve 51 and is arranged between the sleeve 51 and the bottom surface of the mounting hole 24 for the composite valve. The plug 52 is fixed to the terminal end 64 in a manner that allows it to move integrally with the sleeve 51, for example, by any fixing method such as threaded fastening or press-fitting. For example, as shown in the figure, the plug 52 is fixed in a manner that is coaxial with the sleeve 51. As a result, the check valve portion and the solenoid valve portion are coaxially arranged. In addition, a filter 67 and a sealing member 68 may also be provided between the terminal end 64 of the sleeve 51 and the outer periphery of the plug 52.
[0044] The plug 52 has an internal flow path 71 and a receiving hole 72 continuous with the internal flow path 71. The internal flow path 71 includes a first opening 73 opened and closed by the electromagnetic valve core 54 and a second opening 74 opened and closed by the check valve core 55. The internal flow path 71 is, for example, in a straight line along the axis of the plug 52. One or more communication grooves 75 extending in a manner to connect the inside and the outside of the sleeve 51 are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the plug 52. Thus, the first opening 73 is connected to the delivery portion 32 of the first flow path 12 via the communication groove 75. The second opening 74 is connected to the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 13 via the receiving hole 72. A sealing member 76 is provided between the plug 52 and the bottom surface of the composite valve mounting hole 24. Thus, the bottom surface of the composite valve mounting hole 24 and the plug 52 are sealed.
[0045] The solenoid actuator 53 includes a solenoid coil 81 , a fixed iron core 82 , a movable iron core 83 , and a solenoid valve urging member 84 .
[0046] The solenoid coil 81 is, for example, cylindrical. In the present embodiment, the solenoid coil 81 has a circular shape when viewed axially. The solenoid coil 81 is fixed to the outer periphery of the small diameter portion 61. The fixed iron core 82 is made of a magnetic material. The fixed iron core 82 is fixed in the sleeve 51. The movable iron core 83 is made of a magnetic material. The movable iron core 83 is, for example, cylindrical. The movable iron core 83 can slide axially in the sleeve 51. The movable iron core 83 is connected to the electromagnetic valve core 54 in a manner that it can slide axially as a whole with the electromagnetic valve core 54. The electromagnetic valve core 54 is made of, for example, a resin material, but may also be a metal material.
[0047] In addition, a known pilot valve mechanism is assembled to the movable iron core 83 of the present embodiment. Thus, before the movable iron core 83 and the electromagnetic valve core 54 move integrally, only the movable iron core 83 moves, thereby enabling a small amount of hydrogen gas to flow from the delivery portion 32 of the first flow path 12 to the internal flow path 71. In other embodiments, the pilot valve mechanism may not be assembled to the movable iron core 83, and the electromagnetic valve core 54 may be fixed to the movable iron core 83 in such a manner that the electromagnetic valve core 54 can slide axially completely integrally with the movable iron core 83.
[0048] The electromagnetic valve core 54 is urged toward the first opening 73 of the plug 52 by the electromagnetic valve urging member 84 via the movable iron core 83. The electromagnetic valve urging member 84 is, for example, a compression coil spring. The first opening 73 is closed by the electromagnetic valve core 54 being seated on the peripheral portion of the first opening 73. In addition, the first opening 73 is opened by the electromagnetic valve core 54 being separated from the peripheral portion of the first opening 73. That is, the peripheral portion of the first opening 73 in the plug 52 is used as a valve seat of the electromagnetic valve core 54. In other embodiments, a valve seat separate from the plug 52 may also be provided on the peripheral portion of the first opening 73.
[0049] The check valve core 55 is made of, for example, a resin material, but may also be made of a metal material. The check valve core 55 is, for example, in the shape of a tube with one end closed. In the present embodiment, the check valve core 55 has a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction. The check valve core 55 is accommodated in the accommodation hole 72 of the plug 52 in a manner that allows it to slide and move in the axial direction. That is, the check valve core 55 is arranged on the opposite side of the solenoid valve core 54 relative to the plug 52. The cylindrical portion of the check valve core 55 has a transverse hole 85 that penetrates in the radial direction. The check valve core 55 is urged toward the second opening 74 of the plug 52 by the check valve urging member 56. The check valve urging member 56 is, for example, a compression coil spring. The second opening 74 is closed by the check valve core 55 being seated on the peripheral portion of the second opening 74. In addition, the second opening 74 is opened by the check valve core 55 being separated from the peripheral portion of the second opening 74. That is, the peripheral edge portion of the second opening 74 in the plug 52 is used as a valve seat of the check valve element 55. In other embodiments, a valve seat separate from the plug 52 may be provided on the peripheral edge portion of the second opening 74.
[0050] The cover 57 is made of, for example, a metal material or a resin material. The cover 57 is, for example, in the shape of a cylinder with one end closed. In the present embodiment, the cover 57 has a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction. The cover 57 accommodates the portion of the composite valve 15 that is exposed from the composite valve mounting hole 24. The cover 57 is fixed to the fourth side surface 11d of the main body 11 by a known fixing method such as a bolt or a snap-fit structure (not shown).
[0051] In the composite valve 15 thus constructed, when power is not supplied to the solenoid coil 81, the electromagnetic valve core 54 is seated on the peripheral portion of the first opening 73 by the force of the electromagnetic valve urging member 84, and the first opening 73 is closed. In this state, the check valve core 55 is seated on the peripheral portion of the second opening 74 by the force of the check valve urging member 56, and the second opening 74 is closed. In this way, the composite valve 15 is in a closed state when power is not supplied to the solenoid coil 81. Therefore, the flow of hydrogen gas from the delivery portion 32 of the first flow path 12 to the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 13 is restricted.
[0052] On the other hand, when power is supplied to the solenoid coil 81, the electromagnetic valve core 54 is attracted by the fixed iron core 82 together with the movable iron core 83, thereby separating the electromagnetic valve core 54 from the peripheral portion of the first opening 73, and the first opening 73 is opened. Then, the check valve core 55 is separated from the peripheral portion of the second opening 74 by the pressure of the hydrogen gas flowing into the internal flow path 71, and the second opening 74 is opened. In this way, the composite valve 15 is in an open state when power is supplied to the solenoid coil 81. Therefore, the flow of hydrogen gas from the delivery portion 32 of the first flow path 12 to the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 13 is allowed.
[0053] (Comprehensive mounting holes 23)
[0054] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the integrated mounting hole 23 includes a safety valve mounting hole 91 for mounting the safety valve 16 and a check valve mounting hole 92 for mounting the check valve 17. The safety valve mounting hole 91 opens at the third side surface 11c, which is the outer surface of the main body 11. The check valve mounting hole 92 opens at the bottom surface of the safety valve mounting hole 91. That is, the check valve mounting hole 92 is arranged on the inner side of the safety valve mounting hole 91 in a linear manner relative to the safety valve mounting hole 91. In the following description, the opening end side of the integrated mounting hole 23 (safety valve mounting hole 91) is referred to as the first side, and the opposite side, that is, the bottom surface side of the integrated mounting hole 23 (check valve mounting hole 92) is referred to as the second side.
[0055] For example, as shown in the figure, the mounting hole 91 for the safety valve is a stepped hole whose inner diameter decreases in a step-like manner toward the second side. In detail, the mounting hole 91 for the safety valve has a large-diameter hole portion 94, a medium-diameter hole portion 95, and a small-diameter hole portion 96 in order from the first side. The inner diameter of the mounting hole 91 for the safety valve decreases in the order of the large-diameter hole portion 94, the medium-diameter hole portion 95, and the small-diameter hole portion 96. The large-diameter hole portion 94 opens on the third side surface 11c. A discharge path 97 opens on the inner peripheral surface of the medium-diameter hole portion 95. The discharge path 97 extends in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the mounting hole 91 for the safety valve, for example, and opens on the outer surface of the main body 11. The small-diameter hole portion 96 is continuous with the mounting hole 92 for the check valve. The bottom surfaces of the large-diameter hole portion 94 and the small-diameter hole portion 96 are, for example, planes parallel to the third side surface 11c. The bottom surface of the medium-diameter hole portion 95 is, for example, a tapered surface whose inner diameter gradually decreases toward the second side.
[0056] For example, as shown in the figure, the check valve mounting hole 92 has a substantially constant inner diameter along the entire length of its axis. An internal thread is provided at the first side end of the inner circumferential surface of the check valve mounting hole 92. The bottom surface of the check valve mounting hole 92 is, for example, a plane parallel to the third side surface 11c. The check valve mounting hole 92 is continuous with the small diameter hole portion 96 by opening at the bottom surface of the safety valve mounting hole 91. The filling portion 31 of the first flow path 12 opens at the inner circumferential surface of the check valve mounting hole 92. The opening of the filling portion 31 constitutes the outlet of the check valve 17. In other embodiments, the filling portion 31 may also open at a position close to the bottom surface of the inner circumferential surface of the safety valve mounting hole 91. The third portion 35 of the second flow path 13 opens at the bottom surface of the check valve mounting hole 92. The opening of the third portion 35 constitutes the inlet of the check valve 17. In this way, the main body 11 does not have an opening of the check valve mounting hole 92 on its outer surface. In other words, the main body 11 does not have an opening of the check valve mounting hole 92 on its outer surface. The check valve mounting hole 92 is provided coaxially with the safety valve mounting hole 91. Thus, the check valve 17 and the safety valve 16 are arranged coaxially.
[0057] (Check valve 17)
[0058] The check valve 17 includes a check valve housing 101 and a check valve element 102. The check valve 17 may further include a valve seat 103 and a check valve biasing member 104.
[0059] The check valve housing 101 is made of, for example, a metal material. The check valve housing 101 is configured to form a space S between the inner circumferential surface of the check valve mounting hole 92. The check valve housing 101 is, for example, in the shape of a cylinder with a first side end portion closed. In the present embodiment, the check valve housing 101 has a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction. Specifically, the check valve housing 101 has a cylindrical portion 111 and an end wall portion 112 provided at a first side end portion of the cylindrical portion 111. The interior of the cylindrical portion 111 is configured as a receiving hole 113 that opens to the second side. An enlarged diameter hole portion 114 is provided at a second side end portion of the receiving hole 113. The inner diameter of the enlarged diameter hole portion 114 is larger than the inner diameter of the first side portion of the receiving hole 113. The outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 111 is smaller than the inner diameter of the check valve mounting hole 92 except for the second side end portion. The outer diameter of the second side end portion of the cylindrical portion 111 is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the check valve mounting hole 92. The cylindrical portion 111 has one or more lateral holes 115 penetrating in the radial direction. The lateral holes 115 are provided at positions closer to the first side than the second side end portion in the cylindrical portion 111 .
[0060] The end wall portion 112 has a threaded portion 116. An external thread is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the threaded portion 116. The threaded portion 116 is provided, for example, at the first side end portion of the end wall portion 112. Except for the threaded portion 116, the outer diameter of the end wall portion 112 is smaller than the inner diameter of the check valve mounting hole 92. For example, as shown in the figure, the outer diameter of the portion other than the threaded portion 116 in the end wall portion 112 may also be the same as the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 111. The threaded portion 116 is threadedly fastened to the check valve mounting hole 92, and the check valve housing 101 is fixed in the check valve mounting hole 92 in an immovable manner. As a result, a cylindrical space S connected to the filling portion 31 is formed between the inner peripheral surface of the check valve mounting hole 92 and the outer peripheral surface of the check valve housing 101.
[0061] In addition, the end wall portion 112 has a communication path 117 that connects the filling portion 31 (the outlet of the check valve) of the first flow path 12 with the safety valve 16 via the space S. For example, as shown in the figure, the communication path 117 has a longitudinal passage 118 extending along the axis of the check valve housing 101 and one or more transverse passages 119 that are orthogonal to the axis. One end of the transverse passage 119 opens at the outer peripheral surface of the end wall portion 112, and the other end of the transverse passage 119 opens at the longitudinal passage 118. In addition, the first side end of the longitudinal passage 118 constitutes the inlet of the safety valve 16 and opens at the bottom surface of the safety valve mounting hole 91. Sometimes, the first side end of the longitudinal passage 118 is referred to as the outlet of the check valve 17 to the safety valve 16. In addition, the end wall portion 112 has a back pressure hole 121 that connects the receiving hole 113 with the communication path 117. The back pressure hole 121 is, for example, in a straight line extending parallel to the longitudinal passage 118.
[0062] The valve seat 103 is made of, for example, a resin material. The valve seat 103 is annular. The valve seat 103 has a valve port 131 that passes through along its axis. The valve seat 103 is arranged in the enlarged diameter hole portion 114 of the check valve housing 101. And, by fixing the check valve housing 101 in the check valve mounting hole 92, the valve seat 103 is sandwiched between the bottom surface of the check valve mounting hole 92 and the check valve housing 101. As a result, the bottom surface of the check valve mounting hole 92 and the check valve housing 101 are sealed by the valve seat 103.
[0063] The check valve core 102 is made of, for example, a metal material, but may also be made of a resin material. The check valve core 102 is, for example, cylindrical. The check valve core 102 is configured to be able to open and close the valve port 131 of the valve seat 103. For example, the second side end portion of the check valve core 102 has a tapered shape whose outer diameter gradually decreases toward the second side. The check valve core 102 is slidably received in the receiving hole 113 of the check valve housing 101. The check valve force member 104 is, for example, a compression coil spring. The check valve force member 104 is arranged in the receiving hole 113 in a manner that forces the check valve core 102 toward the second side.
[0064] The check valve 17 thus constructed is in a closed state when the check valve core 102 is seated on the valve seat 103 and the valve port 131 is closed. Thus, the check valve 17 restricts the flow of hydrogen between the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 12 and the third portion 35 of the second flow path 13. On the other hand, the check valve 17 is in an open state when the check valve core 102 is separated from the valve seat 103 and the valve port 131 is opened. Thus, the check valve 17 allows the flow of hydrogen between the filling portion 31 and the third portion 35.
[0065] (Safety valve 16)
[0066] The safety valve 16 includes a safety valve housing 141 , a safety valve element 142 , and a plug body 143 . The safety valve 16 may further include a safety valve biasing member 144 and a fastener 145 .
[0067] The safety valve housing 141 is made of, for example, a metal material. The safety valve housing 141 is, for example, a cylindrical shape with a step. Specifically, the safety valve housing 141 has a head 151, a fitting portion 152, and a shaft portion 153 in order from the first side. The outer diameter of the safety valve housing 141 decreases in the order of the head 151, the fitting portion 152, and the shaft portion 153. At the head 151, the safety valve housing 141 is fixed to the safety valve mounting hole 91 by any fixing method such as screwing or press-fitting.
[0068] The outer diameter of the fitting portion 152 is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the medium diameter hole portion 95 of the safety valve mounting hole 91. The outer diameter of the shaft portion 153 is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the small diameter hole portion 96 of the safety valve mounting hole 91. A sealing member 154 is provided at the second side end portion of the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion 153. Thus, the small diameter hole portion 96 and the shaft portion 153 of the safety valve housing 141 are sealed.
[0069] The length of the shaft portion 153 along the axis is longer than the length of the small diameter hole portion 96 along the axis. Thus, when the safety valve housing 141 is mounted in the safety valve mounting hole 91, a portion of the shaft portion 153 is disposed in the medium diameter hole portion 95. In addition, when the safety valve housing 141 is mounted in the safety valve mounting hole 91, a gap may be formed between the shaft portion 153 and the check valve housing 101 as shown in the figure, but the shaft portion 153 may also be in contact with the check valve housing 101.
[0070] The safety valve housing 141 has a through hole 161 that penetrates along the axis. For example, as shown in the figure, the through hole 161 is a stepped hole whose inner diameter decreases in a step-like manner as it moves toward the second side. Specifically, the through hole 161 has a first hole portion 162, a second hole portion 163, and a third hole portion 164 in sequence from the first side. The inner diameter of the through hole 161 decreases in the order of the first hole portion 162, the second hole portion 163, and the third hole portion 164. A sealing member 174 is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the third hole portion 164. The second side end portion of the third hole portion 164 is used as an inlet 165 of the safety valve 16. The inlet 165 faces the communication path 117 of the check valve housing 101. As a result, the inlet 165 is connected to the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 12 via the communication path 117 and the space S. As described above, the check valve 17 switches the open and closed state by the movement of the check valve core 102 in the receiving hole 113, but the structure of the communication path 117 and the space S does not change due to the movement of the check valve core 102. Therefore, regardless of the open and closed state of the check valve 17, the inlet 165 is connected to the first flow path 12.
[0071] The safety valve housing 141 further includes a communication hole 166. The communication hole 166 extends linearly, for example, in a direction perpendicular to the axis. One end of the communication hole 166 opens at the inner circumferential surface of the second hole portion 163, and the other end of the communication hole 166 opens at a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion 153 that is disposed in the middle diameter hole portion 95. Thus, the second hole portion 163 is connected to the outside via the communication hole 166 and the above-mentioned release path 97.
[0072] The safety valve core 142 is made of, for example, a metal material. The safety valve core 142 is, for example, a cylindrical shape with a step. Specifically, the safety valve core 142 has a base portion 171 and a pin portion 172 in order from the first side. The length of the safety valve core 142 along the axis is shorter than the length of the second hole portion 163 along the axis. Thus, when the pin portion 172 is detached from the third hole portion 164, the safety valve core 142 can be accommodated in the second hole portion 163 as a whole.
[0073] The outer diameter of the base portion 171 is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the second hole portion 163. The outer diameter of the pin portion 172 is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the third hole portion 164. The second side end of the outer peripheral surface of the pin portion 172 is surrounded by the sealing member 174. Thus, the third hole portion 164 and the pin portion 172 are sealed.
[0074] The safety valve urging member 144 is, for example, a compression coil spring. The safety valve urging member 144 is attached to the outer periphery of the pin portion 172. The safety valve urging member 144 is disposed in a compressed state between the step portion between the second hole portion 163 and the third hole portion 164 and the base portion 171. Thus, the safety valve urging member 144 urges the safety valve element 142 toward the first side.
[0075] The plug body 143 is made of, for example, a fusible alloy. An example of a fusible alloy is a bismuth-indium alloy. The melting point of the plug body 143 is the above-mentioned threshold temperature. The plug body 143 is arranged at the first side end of the second hole portion 163. The plug body 143 is, for example, cylindrical with an outer diameter substantially equal to the inner diameter of the second hole portion 163. The length of the plug body 143 along the axis is set in such a way that the total length of the plug body 143 and the safety valve core 142 is longer than the length of the second hole portion 163. Thus, in a state where the solid plug body 143 is arranged in the second hole portion 163, the third hole portion 164 is maintained in a state of being closed by the pin portion 172. In other embodiments, the plug body 143 may also be a glass tube that is destroyed when the threshold temperature is reached.
[0076] The fastener 145 is, for example, in the shape of a cylindrical body with a step. Specifically, the fastener 145 has a cylindrical pressing portion 181 protruding toward the second side. The fastener 145 is fixed to the safety valve housing 141 by any fixing method such as threaded fastening or press-fitting, and closes the first side opening of the through hole 161. The pressing portion 181 abuts against the plug body 143. Thus, the safety valve core 142 and the plug body 143 are prevented from falling off from the second hole portion 163 due to the pressure of the hydrogen gas flowing into the third hole portion 164, that is, the safety valve 16 through the inlet 165.
[0077] When the temperature of the safety valve 16 constructed in this way is below the threshold temperature, the third hole portion 164 is closed by the safety valve core 142. That is, the safety valve 16 is in a closed state. Therefore, even if the hydrogen in the gas tank 2 flows into the safety valve 16 via the inlet 165, the hydrogen will not be released to the outside. On the other hand, when the temperature of the safety valve 16 exceeds the threshold temperature, the plug body 143 melts out, and the safety valve core 142 is pressed into the second hole portion 163 by the pressure of the hydrogen and the force of the safety valve force member 144. As a result, the third hole portion 164 is opened. That is, the safety valve 16 is in an open state. Therefore, the hydrogen flowing into the safety valve 16 from the third hole portion 164 is released to the outside via the second hole portion 163, the connecting hole 166 and the release path 97.
[0078] (Valve assembly movement)
[0079] When filling the gas tank 2 with hydrogen, the supply source 4 is connected to the joint 19 via the pipe 6. When hydrogen is supplied from the supply source 4, the hydrogen flows into the check valve 17 via the joint flow path 38, the first portion 33, the second portion 34, and the third portion 35 of the second flow path 13. As described above, the check valve 17 is configured to allow the flow of hydrogen from the third portion 35 to the filling portion 31, and thus becomes an open state. Specifically, the check valve core 102 is moved to the first side by the pressure of the hydrogen, so that the check valve 17 becomes an open state. As a result, the first flow path 12 communicates with the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 12 via the horizontal hole 115 of the check valve housing 101 and the space S. Therefore, hydrogen is filled into the gas tank 2 via the filling portion 31. At this time, hydrogen also flows from the second portion 34 of the second flow path 13 via the fourth portion 36 into the check valve portion of the composite valve 15. However, the check valve portion is configured to restrict the flow of hydrogen from the fourth portion 36 to the delivery portion 32, and thus becomes a closed state. Thus, hydrogen does not flow from the second flow path 13 into the delivery portion 32 .
[0080] When hydrogen is delivered to the consumer 5, the consumer 5 is connected to the joint 19 via the piping 7. The hydrogen in the gas tank 2 flows into the compound valve 15 via the delivery portion 32 of the first flow path 12. When the solenoid valve portion of the compound valve 15 is controlled to be in an open state, the hydrogen flows into the check valve portion. The check valve portion is configured to allow the flow of hydrogen from the delivery portion 32 to the fourth portion 36, and thus becomes in an open state. Thus, hydrogen flows into the fourth portion 36, the second portion 34, the first portion 33, and the joint flow path 38 of the second flow path 13, and is delivered to the consumer 5 via the piping 7. At this time, hydrogen also flows from the second portion 34 of the second flow path 13 via the third portion 35 into the check valve 17. However, the check valve 17 is closed due to the pressure of the hydrogen stored in the gas tank 2. Thus, hydrogen does not flow from the third portion 35 into the filling portion 31.
[0081] In this way, the second flow path 13 is used as a hydrogen filling path and a hydrogen supply path. In other words, a part of the hydrogen filling path and a part of the hydrogen supply path are shared.
[0082] Next, the operation and effects of this embodiment will be described.
[0083] (1) The third portion 35 intersects the second portion 34 at approximately 90° with respect to the first connection portion P1. The fourth portion 36 extends in parallel with the second portion 34 from the terminal portion on the opposite side to the first connection portion P1 with respect to the second connection portion P2. Therefore, there is only one bend in the path between the common port 37 and the fourth portion 36 (i.e., the solenoid valve portion of the composite valve 15), and thus the shape of the second flow path 13 can be suppressed from becoming complicated. In addition, when hydrogen is filled, water contained in the hydrogen may become water droplets and adhere to the inner surface of the second portion 34. Such water droplets usually move linearly along the extending direction of the second portion 34, and thus are easily accumulated in the fourth portion 36 extending in parallel from the second portion 34. In particular, since the third portion 35 intersects the second portion 34 at approximately 90°, the water droplets are less likely to flow into the third portion 35 than when the third portion 35 intersects the second portion 34 at an angle greater than 90° (obtuse angle). Thus, it is possible to suppress the adhesion of water droplets to the check valve 17.
[0084] (2) The flow path cross-sectional area of the filling portion 31 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of the delivery portion 32. This makes it possible to easily increase the flow rate when filling the gas tank 2 with hydrogen gas, and to quickly fill the gas tank 2 with hydrogen gas.
[0085] (3) The second flow path 13, the integrated mounting hole 23, and the composite valve mounting hole 24 are arranged in the same plane. This makes it possible to make the main body 11 more compact in a direction perpendicular to the plane.
[0086] (4) The valve subassembly further includes a composite valve 15 having a check valve portion configured to restrict the flow of hydrogen gas from the fourth portion 36 to the delivery portion 32 and to allow the flow of hydrogen gas from the delivery portion 32 to the fourth portion 36. The check valve portion is disposed between the solenoid valve portion of the composite valve 15 and the fourth portion 36.
[0087] In the case where water droplets adhere to the electromagnetic valve part and freeze, a large electromagnetic attraction force needs to be generated in order to operate the electromagnetic valve part, and power consumption increases. In this regard, according to the above-mentioned structure, water droplets flowing into the fourth part 36 are blocked by the check valve part, so it is possible to suppress water droplets from adhering to the electromagnetic valve part. In addition, in the case where water droplets adhere to the check valve part and freeze, the check valve part is fixed in a closed state. However, when hydrogen is delivered to the consumer device 5, the check valve part is switched to an open state by acting on the high gas pressure of the gas tank 2. That is, the valve assembly 1 can be properly operated without increasing power consumption.
[0088] (5) The filling portion 31 opens on the inner peripheral surface of the check valve mounting hole 92 of the integrated mounting hole 23, and the third portion 35 opens on the bottom surface of the check valve mounting hole 92. The check valve 17 includes: a check valve housing 101, which is configured to form a space S between the check valve housing 101 and the inner peripheral surface of the check valve mounting hole 92 and is fixed in the check valve mounting hole 92; and a check valve core 102 slidably received in the check valve housing 101. The check valve housing 101 has: a receiving hole 113 that receives the check valve core 102 and communicates with the third portion 35; and a horizontal hole 115 that connects the receiving hole 113 with the space S. According to the above structure, when hydrogen is filled, the hydrogen gas flowing into the receiving hole 113 from the third portion 35 flows into the filling portion 31 via the horizontal hole 115 and the space S. Therefore, compared with, for example, a case where the check valve element 102 slides in the check valve mounting hole 92 , moisture contained in the hydrogen gas is less likely to adhere to the check valve element 102 .
[0089] (6) The valve subassembly also includes a safety valve 16 having an inlet 165 and configured to discharge hydrogen gas flowing into the inlet 165 to the outside when the temperature of the safety valve 16 exceeds a threshold temperature. The safety valve 16 is mounted on the integrated mounting hole 23 together with the check valve 17. The inlet 165 is configured to communicate with the filling portion 31 regardless of the open or closed state of the check valve 17. According to the above structure, the structure of the main body 11 can be simplified compared to a case where a dedicated mounting hole for mounting the safety valve 16 is provided in the main body 11. In addition, in the present embodiment, since the flow path cross-sectional area of the filling portion 31 is large, hydrogen gas can be quickly discharged from the safety valve 16 in the event of an abnormality.
[0090] This embodiment can be implemented by being modified as follows. This embodiment and the following modified examples can be implemented in combination with each other within the range that there is no technical contradiction.
[0091] The check valve housing 101 is fixed in the check valve mounting hole 92 by screwing, but the invention is not limited thereto and may be fixed in the check valve mounting hole 92 by any fixing method such as press fitting.
[0092] The check valve 17 may not include the check valve housing 101 , and the check valve element 102 may be slidably accommodated in the check valve mounting hole 92 .
[0093] The second flow path 13, the integrated mounting hole 23, and the composite valve mounting hole 24 may not be arranged in the same plane.
[0094] The safety valve 16 may not be arranged coaxially with the check valve 17. In this case, the check valve mounting hole 92 and the safety valve mounting hole 91 may not be provided coaxially.
[0095] Instead of mounting the safety valve 16 in the integrated mounting hole 23 , a dedicated mounting hole for mounting the safety valve 16 may be provided in the main body 11 . In addition, the valve assembly 1 may not include the safety valve 16 .
[0096] The flow path cross-sectional area of the filling portion 31 may be the same as the flow path cross-sectional area of the delivery portion 32 , or may be smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of the delivery portion 32 .
[0097] The check valve portion of the compound valve 15 may not be arranged coaxially with the solenoid valve portion.
[0098] The valve assembly 1 may include a solenoid valve and a check valve independent of the solenoid valve instead of the compound valve 15. In addition, the compound valve 15 may include only the solenoid valve portion without including the check valve portion.
[0099] The angle α of the third portion 35 relative to the second portion 34 may be 90° or less, for example, 30°, 45°, or 60°.
[0100] The fourth portion 36 only needs to extend from the distal end of the second portion 34 in parallel with the second portion 34 and may not be provided coaxially with the second portion 34. That is, the axis of the fourth portion 36 may not coincide with the axis of the second portion 34.
[0101] The over-flow prevention valve 18 may be assembled in the main body 11 instead of being assembled in the joint 19 . In addition, the valve assembly 1 may not include the over-flow prevention valve 18 .
[0102] The valve assembly 1 controls the flow of high-pressure hydrogen gas, but is not limited to this, and may control the flow of gas other than hydrogen gas.
[0103] Next, technical ideas that can be grasped from the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications are additionally described below.
[0104] (Note 1) It may also be that the valve sub-assembly also includes a safety valve, which has an inlet and is configured to release the gas flowing into the inlet to the outside when the temperature of the safety valve exceeds a threshold temperature, and the safety valve is installed in the first mounting hole together with the check valve, and the inlet is configured to be connected to the filling part regardless of the opening or closing state of the check valve.
Claims
1. A valve assembly comprising: A main body having a gas flow path, a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole, wherein the gas flow path includes a first flow path and a second flow path, the first mounting hole is connected to the first flow path and the second flow path, and the second mounting hole is connected to the first flow path and the second flow path; and Multiple valve sub-assemblies, in, The first flow path is configured to be connected to a gas tank storing gas. The second flow path is configured to be selectively connected to any one of a plurality of external devices. The plurality of external devices include a supply source of gas for filling the gas cylinder and a consumption device for consuming the gas delivered from the gas cylinder. The valve subassembly comprises: a check valve, mounted in the first mounting hole; and A solenoid valve is installed in the second installation hole. The first flow path comprises: a filling portion, connecting the first mounting hole to the gas tank; and The delivery part connects the second mounting hole to the gas tank, The second flow path comprises: The common port is an inlet for the gas supplied from the supply source and an outlet for the gas sent to the consumer. a linear first portion extending from the common port; a second straight portion, bent and extended from the first portion; a linear third portion connecting the first mounting hole and the second portion; and A fourth straight portion connects the second mounting hole and the second portion. The check valve is configured to restrict the flow of gas from the filling portion to the third portion and to allow the flow of gas from the third portion to the filling portion. The solenoid valve is configured to control the flow of gas from the delivery portion to the fourth portion. The third portion intersects the second portion at an angle of less than 90° with respect to the second portion, based on a first connection point where the second portion is connected to the first portion in the second portion. The fourth portion extends in parallel with the second portion from an end portion on the opposite side to the first connection portion, with a second connection portion of the second portion connected to the third portion as a reference.
2. The valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The flow path cross-sectional area of the filling portion is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of the delivery portion.
3. The valve assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The second flow path, the first mounting hole, and the second mounting hole are arranged in the same plane.
4. The valve assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The check valve is a first check valve, The valve subassembly further includes a second check valve configured to restrict the flow of gas from the fourth portion to the delivery portion and to allow the flow of gas from the delivery portion to the fourth portion. The second check valve is disposed between the solenoid valve and the fourth portion.
5. The valve assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The filling portion opens at the inner peripheral surface of the first mounting hole, The third portion opens at the bottom surface of the first mounting hole, The check valve has: a housing, configured to form a space between the housing and the inner peripheral surface of the first mounting hole, and fixed in the first mounting hole; and The valve core is slidably received in the housing. The housing has: a receiving hole, receiving the valve core and communicating with the third portion; and The transverse hole enables the receiving hole to communicate with the space.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Valve assembly for fluid control
JP2015523509A
