Valve assembly

Abstract

A valve assembly is provided with a main body (11) and a plurality of valve subassemblies. The plurality of valve subassemblies include a safety valve (14) having an inflow port (165), as well as other valves. The main body (11) is provided with: a gas flow path having a first flow path (22) connected to the gas tank (2) and a second flow path (23) connected to an external device; and an integrated mounting hole (26) that communicates with each of the first flow path (22) and the second flow path (23). The integrated mounting hole (26) includes: a first mounting hole (91) that opens on the outer surface of the main body (11) and is configured to mount the safety valve (14); and a second mounting hole (92) that opens in the bottom surface of the first mounting hole (91) and is configured so as to mount another valve. The inlet (165) is configured so as to communicate with the first flow path (22) regardless of the open / closed state of the other valves.

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-assembly includes a safety valve (also called a pressure relief device) that releases the hydrogen in the gas tank to the outside when the temperature reaches a high temperature. In addition, in addition to the above-mentioned safety valve, the valve sub-assembly also includes a check valve (also called a one-way valve) that limits the outflow of hydrogen from the gas tank, and a solenoid valve that controls the delivery of hydrogen to the fuel cell. The main body has a gas flow path for hydrogen flow and a plurality of mounting holes for respectively mounting a plurality of valve sub-assemblies. In addition, the valve assembly is assembled by mounting a plurality of valve sub-assemblies in 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 of Patent Document 1, a plurality of mounting holes are provided in the main body as mutually independent holes, so that the structure of the main body tends to become complicated.

[0009] Means for solving problems

[0010] In one technical solution of the present disclosure, a valve assembly is provided. The valve assembly comprises: a main body; and a plurality of valve subassemblies configured to be mounted on the main body. The plurality of valve subassemblies include: a safety valve having an inlet and configured to discharge the gas flowing into the inlet to the outside when the temperature of the safety valve exceeds a threshold temperature; and other valves configured to control the flow of gas in a manner different from that of the safety valve. The main body comprises: a gas flow path having a first flow path connected to a gas tank and a second flow path connected to an external device; and a comprehensive mounting hole, which is connected to the first flow path and the second flow path, respectively. The comprehensive mounting hole comprises: a first mounting hole, which opens on the outer surface of the main body and is configured to be mounted on the safety valve; and a second mounting hole, which opens on the bottom surface of the first mounting hole and is configured to be mounted on the other valves. The inlet is configured to be connected to the first flow path regardless of the open or closed state of the other valves. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view 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 "cylindrical" in this specification, it can be regarded as a cylindrical shape as a whole, and it also includes a shape formed by combining multiple parts or parts to form a cylindrical shape, and a shape with a notch in a part such as a C-shape. 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. Regarding the "annular" in this specification, it can be regarded as a ring-shaped shape as a whole, and it also includes a structure formed by combining multiple parts or parts to form an annular shape, and a structure with a notch in a part such as a C-shape. 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.

[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, and is connected to an external device 3 via a pipe (not shown). The external device 3 includes a fuel cell mounted on the vehicle and a hydrogen supply source such as a hydrogen filling station. High-pressure hydrogen gas of, for example, about 72.5 MPa is stored in the gas tank 2. The valve assembly 1 controls the flow of hydrogen gas filled in the gas tank 2 and hydrogen gas delivered from the gas tank 2.

[0018] In detail, the valve assembly 1 includes a main body 11 and a plurality of valve sub-assemblies assembled to the main body 11. The plurality of valve sub-assemblies include, for example, a manual valve 12, a compound valve 13, a safety valve 14, and a check valve 15. The plurality of valve sub-assemblies may also include any valve sub-assemblies in addition to or in place of these valve sub-assemblies. In addition, as shown in the figure, the valve assembly 1 may also include a joint 16 for connecting a pipe.

[0019] The main body 11 is, for example, made of a metal material. The main body 11 is, for example, in the shape of a cuboid with a portion thereof extending outward. 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.

[0020] The main body 11 has a gas flow path 21 for hydrogen gas to flow and a plurality of mounting holes corresponding to the components mounted on the main body 11. The gas flow path 21 includes a first flow path 22 that connects the check valve 15 to the gas tank 2 to form a filling path, and connects the gas tank 2 to the composite valve 13 to form a delivery path, and a second flow path 23 that connects the composite valve 13 and the check valve 15 to the external device 3 via the joint 16. The plurality of mounting holes include, for example, a joint mounting hole 24 for mounting the joint 16, a manual valve mounting hole 25 for mounting the manual valve 12, a combined mounting hole 26 for mounting the safety valve 14 and the check valve 15, and a composite valve mounting hole 27 for mounting the composite valve 13.

[0021] In detail, the joint mounting hole 24 opens on the first side surface 11a. The joint mounting hole 24 is, for example, a circular hole. The bottom surface of the joint mounting hole 24 is, for example, a plane parallel to the first side surface 11a. The manual valve mounting hole 25 opens on the second side surface 11b. The manual valve mounting hole 25 is, for example, a circular hole. The bottom surface of the manual valve mounting hole 25 is, for example, a plane parallel to the second side surface 11b. The integrated mounting hole 26 opens on the third side surface 11c. Details of the integrated mounting hole 26 will be described later. The composite valve mounting hole 27 opens on the fourth side surface 11d. The composite valve mounting hole 27 is, for example, a circular hole. The bottom surface of the composite valve mounting hole 27 is a plane parallel to the fourth side surface 11d.

[0022] The first flow path 22 includes a filling portion 31 that connects the integrated mounting hole 26 with the gas tank 2 and a delivery portion 32 that connects the composite valve mounting hole 27 with the gas tank 2. The filling portion 31 opens, for example, on the inner peripheral surface of the integrated mounting hole 26. The delivery portion 32 opens, for example, on the inner peripheral surface of the composite valve mounting hole 27.

[0023] The second flow path 23 includes a first portion 33 extending from the bottom surface of the joint mounting hole 24 and a second portion 34 extending from the bottom surface of the manual valve mounting hole 25. The first portion 33 and the second portion 34 extend in a straight line, for example. The second portion 34 is orthogonal 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.

[0024] In addition, the second flow path 23 also includes a third part 35 that connects the second part 34 with the integrated mounting hole 26 and a fourth part 36 that connects the second part 34 with the composite valve mounting hole 27. The third part 35, for example, opens at the bottom surface of the integrated mounting hole 26. The fourth part 36, for example, opens at the bottom surface of the composite valve mounting hole 27. The third part 35 and the fourth part 36, for example, extend in a straight line. As shown in the figure, the third part 35, for example, is orthogonal to the small diameter part in the second part 34. That is, the second flow path 23 may also extend in a crank shape from the joint mounting hole 24 toward the integrated mounting hole 26. The fourth part 36, for example, is arranged coaxially with the second part 34. However, this is not limited to the above, and the third part 35, for example, may also be orthogonal to the second part 34 in a manner coaxially arranged with the first part 33. In addition, the fourth part 36, for example, may also be orthogonal to the second part 34.

[0025] The joint 16 is, for example, cylindrical. The joint 16 is fixed to the joint mounting hole 24 by any fixing method such as threaded fastening or press-fitting. The joint 16 has a joint passage 37 that communicates with the first portion 33 of the second flow path 23. A pipe (not shown) extending from the external device 3 is connected to the joint 16. Thus, the second flow path 23 is connected to the external device 3. The joint 16 may also have a valve mechanism such as an over-current prevention valve assembled in the joint passage 37.

[0026] The manual valve 12 includes a manual valve housing 41 and a manual valve core 42. The manual valve housing 41 is, for example, cylindrical. The manual valve housing 41 is fixed to the manual valve mounting hole 25 by any fixing method such as screwing 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, screwing so that it can move along the second portion 34 of the second flow path 23 and can maintain its position in the manual valve housing 41.

[0027] In the manual valve 12 thus constructed, the tip 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 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.

[0028] The safety valve 14 has an inlet 165 described later. When the temperature of the safety valve 14 is below the threshold temperature, the safety valve 14 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 14 exceeds the threshold temperature, the safety valve 14 irreversibly changes from the closed state to the open state. In the open state, the safety valve 14 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 14 will be described later.

[0029] The check valve 15 is used to prevent the backflow of the gas filled in the gas tank 2, restrict the flow of hydrogen gas from the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 22 to the third portion 35 of the second flow path 23, and allow the flow of hydrogen gas from the third portion 35 to the filling portion 31. That is, the check valve 15 is equivalent to another valve configured to control the flow of hydrogen gas in a manner different from the safety valve 14. The details of the check valve 15 will be described later.

[0030] The composite valve 13 is mounted in the composite valve mounting hole 27. The composite valve 13 has the functions of a solenoid valve and a check valve. The composite valve 13 controls the flow of hydrogen between the delivery portion 32 of the first flow path 22 and the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 23. The composite valve 13 will be described in detail later.

[0031] (Compound valve 13)

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the composite valve 13 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 13 may further include a cover 57 .

[0033] In the composite valve 13, the function of the electromagnetic valve for controlling the flow of hydrogen gas between the first flow path 22 and the second flow path 23 is realized by the sleeve 51, the plug 52, the solenoid actuator 53, and the electromagnetic valve core 54. In addition, the flow of hydrogen gas from the first flow path 22 to the second flow path 23 is allowed and the flow of hydrogen gas from the second flow path 23 to the first flow path 22 is restricted by the plug 52, the check valve core 55, and the check valve urging member 56. Thus, the function of the check valve for preventing high pressure from acting on the electromagnetic valve during the filling of hydrogen gas is realized.

[0034] In detail, the sleeve 51 is, for example, in the shape of a tube with one end closed. The sleeve 51 has a stepped shape in which its outer diameter changes stepwise 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 order 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.

[0035] The sleeve 51 is fixed to the composite valve mounting hole 27 by any fixing method such as screw fastening or press-fitting. In addition, when the sleeve 51 is fixed by screw fastening, it can be removed from the main body 11. In the state where the sleeve 51 is installed in the composite valve mounting hole 27, the large diameter portion 63 and the terminal portion 64 are inserted into the composite valve mounting hole 27, 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. As a result, the inner peripheral surface of the composite valve mounting hole 27 and the large diameter portion 63 are sealed.

[0036] The plug 52 is, for example, a cylindrical shape 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 composite valve mounting hole 27. The plug 52 is fixed to the terminal end 64 by, for example, press-fitting or threaded fastening so as to be movable as a whole with the sleeve 51. For example, as shown in the figure, the plug 52 is fixed in a coaxial manner with the sleeve 51. In addition, a filter 67 and a sealing member 68 may be provided between the outer periphery of the sleeve 51 and the plug 52.

[0037] 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 22 via the communication groove 75. The second opening 74 is connected to the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 23 via the receiving hole 72. A sealing member 76 is provided between the plug 52 and the bottom surface of the compound valve mounting hole 27. Thus, the bottom surface of the compound valve mounting hole 27 and the plug 52 are sealed.

[0038] 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 .

[0039] The solenoid coil 81 is, for example, cylindrical. 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 integrally with the electromagnetic valve core 54. The electromagnetic valve core 54 is, for example, made of a resin material.

[0040] 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 22 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.

[0041] 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 electromagnetic valve core 54 is seated on the peripheral portion of the first opening 73, so that the first opening 73 is closed. In addition, the electromagnetic valve core 54 is separated from the peripheral portion of the first opening 73, so that the first opening 73 is opened. That is, the peripheral portion of the first opening 73 in the plug 52 is used as a valve seat for the electromagnetic valve core 54.

[0042] The check valve core 55 is made of, for example, a resin material. The check valve core 55 is, for example, in the shape of a tube with one end closed. The check valve core 55 is housed in the housing 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 electromagnetic 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 portion of the second opening 74 in the plug 52 is used as a valve seat for the check valve core 55.

[0043] 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 tube with one end closed. The cover 57 accommodates the portion of the composite valve 13 that is exposed from the composite valve mounting hole 27. 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).

[0044] In the composite valve 13 thus configured, 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 13 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 22 to the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 23 is restricted.

[0045] 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 13 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 22 to the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 23 is allowed.

[0046] (Comprehensive mounting holes 26)

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the integrated mounting hole 26 includes a first mounting hole 91 for mounting the safety valve 14 and a second mounting hole 92 for mounting the check valve 15 as another valve. The first mounting hole 91 is opened at the third side surface 11c which is the outer surface of the main body 11. The second mounting hole 92 is opened at the bottom surface of the first mounting hole 91. That is, the second mounting hole 92 is arranged on the inner side of the first mounting hole 91 in a linear manner relative to the first mounting hole 91. In the following description, the side where the first mounting hole 91 is arranged relative to the second mounting hole 92 is referred to as the first side, and the opposite side, that is, the side where the second mounting hole 92 is arranged relative to the first mounting hole 91 is referred to as the second side.

[0048] For example, as shown in the figure, the first mounting hole 91 is a stepped hole whose inner diameter decreases in a stepped manner toward the second side. In detail, the first mounting hole 91 has a large diameter hole portion 94, a medium diameter hole portion 95, and a small diameter hole portion 96 in sequence from the first side. The inner diameter of the first mounting hole 91 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. An internal thread is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the large diameter hole portion 94. A discharge path 97 opens on the inner circumferential surface of the medium diameter hole portion 95. The discharge path 97 extends, for example, in a direction orthogonal to the axis L1 of the first mounting hole 91 and opens on the outer surface of the main body 11. The small diameter hole portion 96 is continuous with the second mounting hole 92. 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 conical surface whose inner diameter gradually decreases toward the second side.

[0049] For example, as shown in the figure, the second mounting hole 92 has a substantially constant inner diameter along the entire length of the axis L2. An internal thread is provided at the first side end of the inner circumferential surface of the second mounting hole 92. The bottom surface of the second mounting hole 92 is, for example, a plane parallel to the third side surface 11c. The second mounting hole 92 is continuous with the small-diameter hole portion 96 by opening at the bottom surface of the first mounting hole 91. The filling portion 31 of the first flow path 22 constituting the outlet of the check valve 15 opens at the inner circumferential surface of the second mounting hole 92, and the third portion 35 of the second flow path 23 constituting the inlet of the check valve 15 opens at the bottom surface of the second mounting hole 92. In this way, the second mounting hole 92 does not open on the outer surface of the main body 11. In other words, the main body 11 does not have an opening of the second mounting hole 92 on its outer surface. The second mounting hole 92 is arranged coaxially with the first mounting hole 91. That is, the axis L2 of the second mounting hole 92 coincides with the axis L1 of the first mounting hole 91.

[0050] (Check valve 15)

[0051] The check valve 15 includes a check valve housing 101 and a check valve element 102. In addition, the check valve 15 may further include a valve seat 103 and a check valve urging member 104.

[0052] The check valve housing 101 is configured to form a space S between the inner circumferential surface of the second mounting hole 92. The check valve housing 101 is, for example, in the shape of a cylinder with a first side end portion closed. Specifically, the check valve housing 101 has a cylindrical portion 111 and an end wall portion 112 provided at the 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 the second side end portion of the receiving hole 113. The inner diameter of the enlarged diameter hole portion 114 is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the first side portion of the receiving hole 113. The outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 111 is set to be smaller than the inner diameter of the second 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 set to be substantially equal to the inner diameter of the second mounting hole 92. The cylindrical portion 111 has one or more transverse holes 115 that penetrate in the radial direction. The horizontal hole 115 is provided at a position closer to the first side than the second side end portion in the cylindrical portion 111 .

[0053] 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. The outer diameter of the end wall portion 112 is set to be smaller than the inner diameter of the second mounting hole 92 except for the threaded portion 116. 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 check valve housing 101 is fixed in the second mounting hole 92 in an immovable manner by the threaded portion 116 being threadedly fastened to the second mounting hole 92. As a result, a cylindrical space S connected to the first flow path 22 is formed between the inner peripheral surface of the second mounting hole 92 and the outer peripheral surface of the check valve housing 101.

[0054] 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 22 to the safety valve 14 of the first mounting hole 91 via the space S. For example, as shown in the figure, the communication path 117 has a longitudinal passage 118 extending along the axis L2 and one or more transverse passages 119 that are orthogonal to the axis L2. One end of the transverse passage 119 opens on the outer peripheral surface of the end wall portion 112, and the other end of the transverse passage 119 opens on the longitudinal passage 118. In addition, the first side end of the longitudinal passage 118 constitutes the inlet of the safety valve 14 and opens on the bottom surface of the first mounting hole 91. Sometimes, the first side end of the longitudinal passage 118 is referred to as the outlet of the safety valve 14 side of the check valve 15.

[0055] Furthermore, 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. The end wall portion 112 may also have one or more tool holes 122 that engage with a tool not shown. The tool holes 122 may also be opened on the first side and arranged around the longitudinal passage 118 at equal angles.

[0056] 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 the axis L2. 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 second mounting hole 92, the valve seat 103 is sandwiched between the bottom surface of the second mounting hole 92 and the check valve housing 101. As a result, the bottom surface of the second mounting hole 92 and the check valve housing 101 are sealed by the valve seat 103.

[0057] The check valve core 102 is made of, for example, a metal 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 biasing member 104 is, for example, a compression coil spring. The check valve biasing member 104 is arranged in the receiving hole 113 in a manner that biases the check valve core 102 toward the second side.

[0058] The check valve 15 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 15 restricts the flow of hydrogen between the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 22 and the third portion 35 of the second flow path 23. On the other hand, the check valve core 102 is separated from the valve seat 103 and the valve port 131 is opened, thereby becoming an open state. Thus, the check valve 15 allows the flow of hydrogen between the filling portion 31 and the third portion 35.

[0059] (Safety valve 14)

[0060] The safety valve 14 includes a safety valve housing 141 , a safety valve element 142 , and a plug body 143 . The safety valve 14 may further include a safety valve biasing member 144 and a fastener 145 .

[0061] The safety valve housing 141 is, for example, in the shape of a cylindrical column 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. An external thread is provided on the head 151. The external thread is provided, for example, on the second side end portion of the outer periphery of the head 151. The outer peripheral surface of the first side end portion of the head 151 may also be a polygonal shape that can be engaged with a tool not shown in the figure. The safety valve housing 141 is fixed to the first mounting hole 91 by threading the head 151 and the large diameter hole portion 94.

[0062] The outer diameter of the fitting portion 152 is set to be substantially equal to the inner diameter of the medium diameter hole portion 95 of the first mounting hole 91. The outer diameter of the shaft portion 153 is set to be substantially equal to the inner diameter of the small diameter hole portion 96 of the first 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.

[0063] The length of the shaft portion 153 along the axis L1 is set to be longer than the length of the small-diameter hole portion 96 along the axis L1. Thus, when the safety valve housing 141 is mounted in the first mounting hole 91, a portion of the shaft portion 153 is disposed in the medium-diameter hole portion 95. It should be noted that, when the safety valve housing 141 is mounted in the first 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.

[0064] The safety valve housing 141 has a through hole 161 that penetrates along the axis L1. 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. An internal thread is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the first hole portion 162. 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 14. 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 22 via the communication path 117 and the space S. As described above, the check valve 15 switches the open and closed states by the movement of the check valve core 102 in the receiving hole 113, but the structures of the communication path 117 and the space S do not change due to the movement of the check valve core 102. Therefore, regardless of the open and closed states of the check valve 15 as another valve, the inlet 165 is connected to the first flow path 22.

[0065] 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 L1. One end of the communication hole 166 opens at the inner peripheral surface of the second hole portion 163, and the other end of the communication hole 166 opens at a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion 153 that is disposed in the middle diameter hole portion 95. Thus, the second hole portion 163 communicates with the outside via the communication hole 166 and the above-mentioned release path 97.

[0066] The safety valve core 142 is, for example, in the shape of a cylindrical column 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 L1 is set shorter than the length of the second hole portion 163 along the axis L1. Thus, when the pin portion 172 of the plug body 143 described later is detached from the third hole portion 164, the safety valve core 142 as a whole can be accommodated in the second hole portion 163.

[0067] The outer diameter of the base portion 171 is set to be substantially equal to the inner diameter of the second hole portion 163. The outer diameter of the pin portion 172 is set to be 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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 L1 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 state where the third hole portion 164 is closed by the pin portion 172 is maintained. In other embodiments, the plug body 143 may also be a glass tube that is destroyed when the threshold temperature is reached.

[0070] The fastener 145 is, for example, cylindrical with a step. Specifically, the fastener 145 has a cylindrical pressing portion 181 protruding toward the second side. The outer diameter of the pressing portion 181 is set to be smaller than the outer diameter of the first side portion of the fastener 145. An external thread is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the pressing portion 181. The fastener 145 is fixed to the safety valve housing 141 by being threadedly fastened to the first hole portion 162, closing the first side opening of the through hole 161. The pressing portion 181 abuts against the bolt body 143. Thus, the safety valve core 142 and the bolt 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 14, through the inlet 165.

[0071] When the temperature of the safety valve 14 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 14 is in a closed state. Therefore, even if the hydrogen in the gas tank 2 flows into the safety valve 14 via the inlet 165, the hydrogen will not be released to the outside. On the other hand, when the temperature of the safety valve 14 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 14 is in an open state. Therefore, the hydrogen flowing into the safety valve 14 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.

[0072] (Action of valve assembly 1)

[0073] Reference Figure 1~Figure 3 , the operation of the valve assembly 1 when filling the gas tank 2 with hydrogen will be described. In this case, the connector 16 is connected to a pipe extending from a supply source of hydrogen, which is an external device 3. When hydrogen is supplied from the external device 3 via the connector 16, the hydrogen flows into the check valve 15 via the first portion 33, the second portion 34, and the third portion 35 of the second flow path 23. Then, the check valve core 102 is moved toward the first side by the pressure of the hydrogen, so that the check valve 15 is opened. As a result, the first flow path 22 is connected to the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 22 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.

[0074] At this time, hydrogen also flows into the inlet 165 of the safety valve 14 via the space S and the communication path 117. However, if the safety valve 14 is not at a high temperature, the safety valve 14 is in a closed state, so the hydrogen is not released to the outside. In addition, hydrogen also flows into the composite valve 13 from the second portion 34 of the second flow path 23 via the fourth portion 36. However, the check valve core 55 is pressed against the second opening 74 of the plug 52 by the pressure of the hydrogen, so the second opening 74 remains in a closed state. Therefore, the high-pressure hydrogen does not act on the solenoid valve and does not adversely affect the function of the solenoid valve.

[0075] Next, the operation of the valve assembly 1 when hydrogen gas is delivered from the gas tank 2 will be described. In this case, the joint 16 is connected to a pipe extending from a fuel cell as the external device 3. The hydrogen gas in the gas tank 2 flows into the composite valve 13 via the delivery portion 32 of the first flow path 22. When power is supplied to the solenoid coil 81 as described above, the first opening 73 and the second opening 74 of the internal flow path 71 in the plug 52 are also opened. As a result, the hydrogen gas flows into the joint 16 via the fourth portion 36, the second portion 34 and the first portion 33 of the second flow path 23, and is delivered to the fuel cell.

[0076] Next, it is assumed that the temperature of the safety valve 14 becomes a high temperature exceeding the threshold temperature. In this case, the plug 143 of the safety valve 14 melts out, and the safety valve 14 becomes an open state. At this time, hydrogen flows from the gas tank 2 into the inlet 165 of the safety valve 14 via the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 22, the space S, and the communication path 117. And the hydrogen that flows into the safety valve 14 is released to the outside via the third hole portion 164, the second hole portion 163, the communication hole 166, and the release path 97. Thereby, the pressure of the gas tank 2 is suppressed from becoming excessive.

[0077] Next, the operation and effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0078] (1) The integrated mounting hole 26 of the main body 11 includes: a first mounting hole 91, which is open at the third side surface 11c, which is the outer surface of the main body 11, and is used to mount the safety valve 14; and a second mounting hole 92, which is open at the bottom surface of the first mounting hole 91, and is used to mount the check valve 15. In this way, the second mounting hole 92 is open at the bottom surface of the first mounting hole 91, and is arranged in a manner to be aligned with the first mounting hole 91 in a straight line. Therefore, compared with the case where the first mounting hole 91 and the second mounting hole 92 are independent holes, for example, the structure of the main body 11 can be simplified. In addition, compared with the case where the first mounting hole 91 and the second mounting hole 92 intersect, it is possible to suppress the stress caused by the pressure of hydrogen gas from concentrating on the connecting portion between the first mounting hole 91 and the second mounting hole 92. Furthermore, regardless of the open / closed state of the check valve 15 , the inlet 165 of the safety valve 14 communicates with the inside of the gas tank 2 via the first flow path 22 (filling path). Therefore, when the gas tank 2 reaches a high temperature, hydrogen gas can be reliably released to the outside via the safety valve 14 as described above.

[0079] (2) The second mounting hole 92 is provided coaxially with the first mounting hole 91. Therefore, the first mounting hole 91 and the second mounting hole 92 can be formed more easily than when the axis L2 of the second mounting hole 92 deviates from the axis L1 of the first mounting hole 91. Thus, for example, the processing time of the main body 11 can be shortened.

[0080] (3) The check valve 15 is used as another valve for controlling the flow of hydrogen gas in a manner different from the safety valve 14 . The check valve 15 restricts the flow of hydrogen gas from the first flow path 22 to the second flow path 23 and allows the flow of hydrogen gas from the second flow path 23 to the first flow path 22 .

[0081] Here, in the structure in which the second mounting hole 92 opens at the bottom surface of the first mounting hole 91, other valves need to be mounted on the second mounting hole 92 via the first mounting hole 91. Therefore, compared with, for example, a case in which the second mounting hole 92 opens at the outer surface of the body 11, it is inevitable that the assemblability of other valves is reduced. In this regard, the check valve 15 is a valve with a relatively simple structure compared with, for example, a solenoid valve, and can therefore be easily mounted on the second mounting hole 92 via the first mounting hole 91. Thus, it is possible to suppress the reduction in assemblability of the valve assembly 1.

[0082] (4) The first flow path 22 opens on the inner peripheral surface of the second mounting hole 92, and the second flow path 23 opens on the bottom surface of the second mounting hole 92. Therefore, for example, compared with the case where the first flow path 22 opens on the inner peripheral surface of the first mounting hole 91, the hydrogen gas flowing in from the second flow path 23 can be quickly filled into the gas tank 2.

[0083] (5) The check valve 15 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 second mounting hole 92 and is fixed in the second mounting hole 92; and a check valve core 102 slidably accommodated 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 second flow path 23; a horizontal hole 115 that communicates the receiving hole 113 with the space S; and a communication path 117 that communicates the space S with the first mounting hole 91. The inlet 165 of the safety valve 14 communicates with the first flow path 22 via the communication path 117 and the space S.

[0084] According to the above configuration, the first mounting hole 91 communicates with the first flow path 22 via the communication path 117 of the check valve housing 101 fixed to the body 11. Therefore, the inlet 165 of the safety valve 14 and the first flow path 22 can be stably communicated.

[0085] 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.

[0086] The check valve housing 101 is fixed to the second mounting hole 92 by screw fastening, but is not limited thereto, and may be fixed to the second mounting hole 92 by any fixing method such as press fitting. Similarly, the safety valve housing 141 may be fixed to the first mounting hole 91 by any fixing method such as press fitting. In addition, the fastener 145 may be fixed to the safety valve housing 141 by any fixing method such as press fitting.

[0087] The communication path 117 includes the vertical path 118 and the horizontal path 119, but is not limited thereto. The communication path 117 may be any path as long as it allows the filling portion 31 to communicate with the first mounting hole 91, and may be, for example, a straight line inclined with respect to the axis L2.

[0088] A cylindrical space S is formed between the inner circumference of the second mounting hole 92 and the outer circumference of the check valve housing 101 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. The shape of the space S may not be cylindrical as long as the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 22 can communicate with the first mounting hole 91 .

[0089] The check valve housing 101 and the safety valve housing 141 are configured as separate independent components, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the check valve housing and the safety valve housing may be configured as a continuous one-piece without gaps. That is, the safety valve 14 and the check valve 15 may share a housing.

[0090] The shape of the first mounting hole 91 can be changed appropriately. For example, the first mounting hole 91 can have a substantially constant inner diameter along the entire length of the axis L1. That is, the first mounting hole 91 can be a simple round hole instead of a stepped hole. In addition, the shape of the second mounting hole 92 can be changed appropriately. For example, the second mounting hole 92 can also be a stepped hole. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the first mounting hole 91 and the inner diameter of the second mounting hole 92 can also be substantially the same as each other.

[0091] A valve subassembly other than the check valve 15, such as an over-flow prevention valve, a solenoid valve, etc., may be used as another valve.

[0092] Although the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 22 opens on the inner peripheral surface of the second mounting hole 92 , the present invention is not limited thereto, and for example, the filling portion 31 may open near the bottom surface of the inner peripheral surface of the first mounting hole 91 .

[0093] The axis L2 of the second mounting hole 92 may not coincide with the axis L1 of the first mounting hole 91. That is, the second mounting hole 92 and the first mounting hole 91 may not be provided coaxially.

[0094] 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.

Claims

1. A valve assembly comprising: the subject; and A plurality of valve subassemblies configured to be mounted on the main body, in, The plurality of valve subassemblies include: a safety valve having an inlet and configured to release gas flowing into the inlet to the outside when a temperature of the safety valve exceeds a threshold temperature; and other valves, configured to control the flow of gas in a manner different from that of the safety valve, The subject includes: a gas flow path having a first flow path connected to the gas tank and a second flow path connected to an external device; and The integrated mounting hole is connected to the first flow path and the second flow path respectively. The comprehensive mounting holes include: A first mounting hole, which opens on the outer surface of the main body and is configured to allow the safety valve to be mounted thereon; and a second mounting hole, which opens at the bottom surface of the first mounting hole and is configured to be mounted with the other valve; The inlet port is configured to communicate with the first flow path regardless of the open / closed state of the other valve.

2. The valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The second mounting hole is coaxially arranged with the first mounting hole.

3. The valve assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The other valve is a check valve that restricts the flow of gas from the first flow path to the second flow path and allows the flow of gas from the second flow path to the first flow path.

4. The valve assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The first flow path opens on the inner peripheral surface of the second mounting hole, The second flow path opens at a bottom surface of the second mounting hole.

5. The valve assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The check valve has: a housing, configured to form a space between the housing and the inner peripheral surface of the second mounting hole, and fixed in the second 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 second flow path; A transverse hole, so that the receiving hole is connected with the space; and a communication path, so that the space is connected with the first mounting hole, The inlet communicates with the first flow path via the communication path and the space.

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