Sealing device and sealing structure

Abstract

The sealing device can be positioned in the axial direction while the sealing performance is properly maintained. A sealing device (30) is provided between a first member (10) in which a first space (S1) is formed on a first surface (E1) and a second member (20) in which a second space (S2) having a larger diameter than the first space (S1) is formed on a second surface (E2) facing the first surface (E1), and includes a tubular elastic body (40) including: a first outer peripheral surface (G1) facing an inner peripheral surface (F1) of the first space (S1); a second outer peripheral surface (G2) facing the inner peripheral surface (F2) of the second space (S2) and having a larger diameter than the first outer peripheral surface (G1); a stepped surface (G12) that forms a step between the first outer peripheral surface (G1) and the second outer peripheral surface (G2) and that is in contact with the first surface (E1); an annular first protrusion (41) protruding from the first outer peripheral surface (G1); and an annular second protrusion (42) protruding from the second outer peripheral surface (G2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a sealing device and a sealing structure. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a sealing device has been proposed for connecting a first component with a flow path formed in an opening on an end surface, and a second component with a flow path formed in an opening on an end surface opposite the first component. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a structure that utilizes a straight pipe-shaped joint seal for connecting piping flow paths.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-255470 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] However, in previous structures, it is difficult to position the sealing device in the axial direction. For example, in the structure of Patent Document 1, the axial position of the joint seal can be determined by making each end of the joint seal abut against the step surface in the flow path. However, the end of the joint seal is pressed against the step surface in the flow path, causing the sealing lip of the end to be excessively deformed, and it may be impossible to maintain the target sealing performance. In view of the above situation, one method of the present application is to achieve axial positioning of the sealing device while appropriately maintaining the sealing performance. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0009] However, in previous structures, it is difficult to position the sealing device in the axial direction. For example, in the structure of Patent Document 1, the axial position of the joint seal can be determined by making each end of the joint seal abut against the step surface in the flow path. However, the end of the joint seal is pressed against the step surface in the flow path, causing the sealing lip of the end to be excessively deformed, and it may be impossible to maintain the target sealing performance. In view of the above situation, one method of the present application is to achieve axial positioning of the sealing device while appropriately maintaining the sealing performance.

[0010] Means used to solve problems

[0011] In order to solve the above problems, a sealing device in one embodiment of the present application is arranged between a first component and a second component, the first component forming a first space on a first surface, and the second component forming a second space with a diameter larger than the first space on a second surface opposite to the first surface, the sealing device includes a tubular elastomer, and the elastomer includes: a first outer peripheral surface opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the first space; a second outer peripheral surface opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the second space, with a diameter larger than the first outer peripheral surface; a step surface constituting a step between the first outer peripheral surface and the second peripheral surface, and contacting the first surface; an annular first protrusion protruding from the first outer peripheral surface; and an annular second protrusion protruding from the second outer peripheral surface.

[0012] A sealing structure involved in one embodiment of the present application includes: a first component, which has a first space formed on a first surface; a second component, which has a second space with a diameter larger than that of the first space formed on a second surface opposite to the first surface; a sealing device, which is arranged between the first component and the second component, and the sealing device includes a tubular elastomer, and the elastomer includes: a first outer peripheral surface, which is opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the first space; a second outer peripheral surface, which is opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the second space and has a diameter larger than that of the first outer peripheral surface; a step surface, which constitutes a step between the first outer peripheral surface and the second outer peripheral surface and contacts the first surface; an annular first protrusion, which protrudes from the first outer peripheral surface; and an annular second protrusion, which protrudes from the second outer peripheral surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of the sealing structure according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the sealing device.

[0015] Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view of the sealing structure in a comparative example.

[0016] Figure 4 It is an explanatory diagram of the effects of the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram of the manufacturing process of the sealing structure.

[0018] Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device in a modified example.

[0019] Figure 7 It is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device in a modified example.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device in a modified example.

[0021] Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device in a modified example.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device in a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The following describes a method for implementing the present application with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the dimensions and scales of the elements in the drawings may differ from those of the actual product. Furthermore, the method described below is an example of a method contemplated for implementing the present application. Therefore, the scope of the present application is not limited to the following example.

[0024] A: Implementation Method

[0025] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a sealing structure 100 according to one embodiment of the present application. The sealing structure 100 of this embodiment is a structure utilized in a cooling unit mounted on a mobile object such as an automobile. The cooling unit is a heat transfer mechanism for efficiently utilizing waste heat emitted from a power source such as an internal combustion engine or an electric motor. However, the applications of the sealing structure 100 are not limited to the examples shown above.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, the sealing structure 100 of this embodiment includes a first component 10, a second component 20, and a sealing device 30. The first component 10 and the second component 20 are interconnected pipes that form a refrigerant flow path. The sealing device 30 is a tubular structure disposed between the first component 10 and the second component 20, sealing the refrigerant flow path at the boundary between the first component 10 and the second component 20. The first component 10, the second component 20, and the sealing device 30 are concentrically arranged.

[0027] exist Figure 1 The center axis Z of the sealing device 30 is shown in the figure. In the following description, one direction along the center axis Z is referred to as the Z1 direction, and the direction opposite to the Z1 direction is referred to as the Z2 direction. Furthermore, the direction of the circumference of a virtual circle of arbitrary diameter centered on the center axis Z is referred to as the "circumferential direction," and the direction of the radius of the virtual circle is referred to as the "radial direction." The direction radially toward the center axis Z is referred to as the "inward direction," and the direction radially away from the center axis Z is referred to as the "outward direction."

[0028] The first member 10 is a tubular structure having a first surface E1. The first surface E1 is an end surface of the first member 10 facing the Z2 direction. Specifically, the first surface E1 is a flat surface perpendicular to the central axis Z of the sealing device 30.

[0029] A first space S1 and a first flow path P1 are formed within the first component 10. The first space S1 is a space open to the first surface E1. Specifically, the first space S1 is a cylindrical space (i.e., a circular cross-section) with an inner diameter Da1. The first flow path P1 is a refrigerant flow path connected to the first space S1. The first flow path P1 is located, for example, in the Z1 direction of the first space S1.

[0030] The second component 20 is a tubular structure having a second surface E2. The second surface E2 is the end surface of the second component 20 facing the Z1 direction. Specifically, the second surface E2 is a flat surface perpendicular to the central axis Z of the sealing device 30. The first surface E1 of the first component 10 and the second surface E2 of the second component 20 face each other. Specifically, the first component 10 and the second component 20 are connected in a state where the first surface E1 and the second surface E2 are in contact with each other.

[0031] A second space S2 and a second flow path P2 are formed within the second component 20. The second space S2 is open to the second surface E2. Specifically, the second space S2 is cylindrical (i.e., circular in cross-section) with an inner diameter Da2. The second flow path P2 is a refrigerant flow path that communicates with the second space S2. The second flow path P2 is located, for example, in the Z2 direction of the second space S2.

[0032] The inner diameter Da2 of the second space S2 is greater than the inner diameter Da1 of the first space S1 (Da2>Da1). That is, the diameter of the second space S2 is larger than the diameter of the first space S1. Therefore, when the first component 10 and the second component 20 are connected, a step surface X facing the Z2 direction is formed between the first surface E1 and the second surface E2. The step surface X is the area of the first surface E1 located inside the second space S2 when viewed from the direction of the central axis Z. In other words, the step surface X is a flat surface with a circular shape (width = (Da2-Da1) / 2) along the inner periphery of the first surface E1.

[0033] A sealing device 30 is housed in the space S formed by the first space S1 and the second space S2. The sealing device 30 is a joint seal that seals the space S. Specifically, the sealing device 30 prevents the refrigerant flowing through the first flow path P1, the space S, and the second flow path P2 from leaking from the gap between the first surface E1 and the second surface E2.

[0034] Figure 2 : is a cross-sectional view of the sealing device 30 in a state not accommodated in the space S. Figure 2 As illustrated, the sealing device 30 includes an elastic body 40 and a reinforcing body 50. The sealing device 30 is a molded product in which the elastic body 40 and the reinforcing body 50 are integrally formed by, for example, insert molding.

[0035] The elastic body 40 is an elastically deformable tubular structure. The elastic body 40 is formed of an elastic material such as a rubber material. Examples of the rubber material used to manufacture the elastic body 40 include various rubber materials such as chloroprene rubber (CR), silicone rubber (SR), acrylic rubber (ACM), polyurethane rubber (U), polyurethane rubber (PUR), vinyl methyl silicone rubber (VMQ), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), and fluorocarbon rubber (FKM).

[0036] The reinforcement body 50 is a tubular structure having a higher rigidity than the elastomer 40, and reinforces the mechanical strength of the sealing device 30. Most of the reinforcement body 50 is covered by the elastomer 40. That is, the reinforcement body 50 is buried in the elastomer 40. The reinforcement body 50 is formed of, for example, a metal material. Examples of the metal material used in the manufacture of the reinforcement body 50 include stainless steel, SPCC (Steel Plate Cold Commercial: cold rolled steel plate) or SPHC (Steel Plate Hot Commercial: hot rolled steel plate). In addition, the reinforcement body 50 may also be formed of, for example, a resin material having a higher rigidity than the elastomer 40. As described above, in the present embodiment, since the reinforcement body 50 having a higher rigidity than the elastomer 40 is provided, the mechanical strength of the sealing device 30 can be appropriately maintained compared to a method in which the sealing device 30 is composed only of the elastomer 40.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the elastic body 40 includes an outer peripheral surface G and an inner peripheral surface H. The outer peripheral surface G is the outer surface (opposite to the central axis Z) of the elastic body 40 . The inner peripheral surface H is the inner surface (central axis Z side) of the elastic body 40 .

[0038] The outer peripheral surface G of the elastic body 40 includes a first outer peripheral surface G1 and a second outer peripheral surface G2. The first outer peripheral surface G1 is located in the Z1 direction of the second outer peripheral surface G2. Figure 1 As shown, the first outer peripheral surface G1 is a cylindrical surface that faces the inner peripheral surface F1 of the first space S1 at a predetermined distance. The second outer peripheral surface G2 is a cylindrical surface that faces the inner peripheral surface F2 of the second space S2 at a predetermined distance.

[0039] The outer diameter Db2 of the second outer peripheral surface G2 is larger than the outer diameter Db1 of the first outer peripheral surface G1 (Db2>Db1). That is, the second outer peripheral surface G2 has a larger diameter than the first outer peripheral surface G1. Therefore, a step surface G12 facing the Z1 direction is formed between the first outer peripheral surface G1 and the second outer peripheral surface G2. The step surface G12 constitutes a step between the first outer peripheral surface G1 and the second outer peripheral surface G2. That is, the step surface G12 is a flat surface in an annular shape (width = (Db2-Db1) / 2) perpendicular to the center axis Z. As understood from the above description, the area of the outer peripheral surface G located in the Z1 direction of the step surface G12 is the first outer peripheral surface G1, and the area located in the Z2 direction of the step surface G12 is the second outer peripheral surface G2. As Figure 1 As illustrated, the step surface G12 of the elastic body 40 contacts the step surfaces X of the first member 10 and the second member 20 .

[0040] like Figure 2 As shown, the elastic body 40 includes a first protrusion 41, a second protrusion 42, and a third protrusion 43. The first protrusion 41 and the third protrusion 43 protrude radially outward from the first outer peripheral surface G1. The second protrusion 42 protrudes radially outward from the second outer peripheral surface G2. That is, the second protrusion 42 is located closer to the first protrusion 41 in the Z2 direction. The third protrusion 43 is located between the first protrusion 41 and the second protrusion 42.

[0041] The first protrusion 41 is located near the end of the first outer peripheral surface G1 in the Z1 direction. The first protrusion 41 is an annular protrusion that extends over the entire circumference of the first outer peripheral surface G1. Specifically, the first protrusion 41 is a truncated cone-shaped sealing lip that expands in diameter toward the Z1 direction. That is, the outer diameter of the front end of the first protrusion 41 is larger than the outer diameter of the base end of the first protrusion 41. The Z1 direction is a direction away from the step surface G12 along the center axis Z. Therefore, the first protrusion 41 is an annular protrusion that expands in diameter along the center axis Z toward a direction away from the step surface G12 (Z1 direction).

[0042] like Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, when the sealing device 30 is installed in the space S, the first protrusion 41 contacts the inner circumferential surface F1 of the first space S1. Pressed inward by the inner circumferential surface F1 of the first space S1, the first protrusion 41 bends radially inward. The area of the first protrusion 41 that contacts the inner circumferential surface F1 constitutes the sealing surface.

[0043] Figure 2The second protrusion 42 is located near the end of the second outer peripheral surface G2 in the Z2 direction. The second protrusion 42 is an annular protrusion extending along the entire circumference of the second outer peripheral surface G2. Specifically, the second protrusion 42 is a rib protruding radially from the second outer peripheral surface G2. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the second protrusion 42 is a trapezoid (specifically, an isosceles trapezoid).

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, when the sealing device 30 is installed in the space S, the second protrusion 42 contacts the inner circumferential surface F2 of the second space S2. Pressed inward by the inner circumferential surface F2 of the second space S2, the second protrusion 42 is compressed radially inward. The area of the second protrusion 42 that contacts the inner circumferential surface F2 constitutes the sealing surface.

[0045] Figure 2 The third protrusion 43 is formed on the first outer peripheral surface G1 together with the first protrusion 41. Specifically, the third protrusion 43 is provided near the base end of the first protrusion 41. That is, the third protrusion 43 protrudes radially outward from the first outer peripheral surface G1 between the first protrusion 41 and the stepped surface G12. The third protrusion 43 is an annular protrusion extending along the entire circumference of the first outer peripheral surface G1.

[0046] like Figure 2 As illustrated, the height h3 of the third protrusion 43 is lower than the height h1 of the first protrusion 41 (h3 Figure 1 In this state, the first protrusion 41 contacts the inner peripheral surface F1 of the first space S1, whereas the third protrusion 43 does not contact the inner peripheral surface F1. That is, the third protrusion 43 faces the inner peripheral surface F1 with a gap therebetween.

[0047] The inner circumferential surface H of the elastic body 40 includes a first inner circumferential surface H1 and a second inner circumferential surface H2. The first inner circumferential surface H1 is located relative to the second inner circumferential surface H2 in the Z1 direction. Specifically, the first inner circumferential surface H1 is the portion of the inner circumferential surface H corresponding to the first outer circumferential surface G1. Meanwhile, the second inner circumferential surface H2 is the portion of the inner circumferential surface H corresponding to the second outer circumferential surface G2.

[0048] ​The inner diameter Dc2 of the second inner circumferential surface H2 is greater than the inner diameter Dc1 of the first inner circumferential surface H1 (Dc2>Dc1). In other words, the diameter of the second inner circumferential surface H2 is larger than the diameter of the first inner circumferential surface H1. Therefore, an annular step surface H12 is formed between the first inner circumferential surface H1 and the second inner circumferential surface H2, facing in the Z2 direction.

[0049] As described above, in this embodiment, since the diameter of the second inner circumferential surface H2 of the elastic body 40 is larger than the diameter of the first inner circumferential surface H1, the diameter of the second inner circumferential surface H2 of the elastic body 40 is the same as the diameter of the first inner circumferential surface H1 (for example, Figure 8 Compared with the structure of the present invention, the amount of material used in the elastic body 40 can be reduced.

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, the reinforcing body 50 of the sealing device 30 is a structure integrally formed of a first portion 51, a second portion 52, and a step portion 53. The reinforcing body 50 is manufactured, for example, by punching a metal ring.

[0051] The first portion 51 is a tubular portion of the reinforcement 50 located in the Z1 direction. Specifically, the first portion 51 is a cylindrical portion of the reinforcement 50 corresponding to the inner circumferential surface F1 of the first member 10. Therefore, the first portion 51 is located inside the first outer circumferential surface G1 of the elastic body 40.

[0052] The second portion 52 is a tubular portion of the reinforcement 50 located in the Z2 direction. Specifically, the second portion 52 is a cylindrical portion of the reinforcement 50 corresponding to the inner peripheral surface F2 of the second member 20. Therefore, the second portion 52 is located inside the second outer peripheral surface G2 of the elastic body 40.

[0053] The step portion 53 is a portion connecting the first portion 51 and the second portion 52. Figure 2 As shown, the second portion 52 has a larger diameter than the first portion 51. The step portion 53 forms a step between the first portion 51 and the second portion 52. Specifically, the step portion 53 is a flat, annular portion perpendicular to the central axis Z. In the direction of the central axis Z, the step portion 53 of the reinforcement body 50 is located between the step surface G12 of the outer peripheral surface G and the step surface H12 of the inner peripheral surface H.

[0054] In the above structure, due to errors such as manufacturing errors or assembly errors, the first space S1 and the second space S2 may be eccentric. Figure 3 and Figure 4The diagram shows a state where the second space S2 is offset to the left relative to the first space S1. When the first and second spaces S1 are offset from each other, the central axis Z of the sealing device 30 is tilted relative to the central axes of the first and second spaces S1, S2. In other words, the sealing device 30 is offset from the first space S1.

[0055] Figure 3 This is a method in which the third protrusion 43 is not formed (hereinafter referred to as a "comparative example"). Figure 3 As shown in the comparative example, when the sealing device 30 is eccentric relative to the first space S1, the first outer peripheral surface G1 of the sealing device 30 may be too close to the inner peripheral surface F1 of the first space S1. In addition, when the first outer peripheral surface G1 is too close to the inner peripheral surface F1, the portion of the first protrusion 41 close to the inner peripheral surface F1 ( Figure 3 The left side portion of the first protrusion 41 is pressed by the inner peripheral surface F1 and deformed excessively, and the portion on the opposite side of the portion in the first protrusion 41 ( Figure 3 That is, in the comparative example, due to the eccentricity of the sealing device 30 relative to the first space S1, it is sometimes impossible to maintain an appropriate interference with the first protrusion 41.

[0056] In contrast to the comparative example, in this embodiment, a third protrusion 43 is formed on the first outer peripheral surface G1. When the sealing device 30 is eccentric relative to the first space S1, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in the example, the third protrusion 43 contacts the inner circumferential surface F1 of the first space S1, thereby suppressing further eccentricity of the sealing device 30. In other words, excessive eccentricity of the sealing device 30 relative to the first space S1 is suppressed. Consequently, excessive or insufficient deformation of the first protrusion 41 caused by eccentricity of the sealing device 30 can be reduced, resulting in maintaining an appropriate interference fit within the first protrusion 41. In other words, the sealing performance of the first protrusion 41 can be appropriately ensured.

[0057] In this embodiment, the third protrusion 43 is particularly annular. Therefore, even when the sealing device 30 is eccentric relative to the first space S1 in any direction within a plane perpendicular to the central axis Z, excessive proximity between the inner circumferential surface F1 of the first space S1 and the first outer circumferential surface G1 can be suppressed. Consequently, the first protrusion 41 can maintain a moderate interference fit relative to the inner circumferential surface F1 of the first space S1, resulting in a particularly significant effect as described above.

[0058] Figure 5 1 is a process diagram illustrating the assembly steps of the sealing structure 100. Figure 5As illustrated, in step Q1, the portion of the sealing device 30 located in the Z1 direction is housed in the first space S1 of the first component 10. Specifically, the sealing device 30 is first moved in the Z1 direction with the first protrusion 41 bent radially inward, thereby causing the first protrusion 41 to enter the first space S1. The sealing device 30 is moved in the Z1 direction until the step surface G12 of the elastic body 40 contacts the first surface E1 (step surface X) of the first component 10. The contact between the step surface G12 of the elastic body 40 and the first surface E1 (step surface X) determines the position of the sealing device 30 relative to the first component 10 in the direction of the central axis Z.

[0059] After step Q1, in step Q2, the first component 10 and the second component 20 are joined. Specifically, as the second component 20 moves in the Z1 direction toward the first component 10, the portion of the sealing device 30 located in the Z2 direction is accommodated in the second space S2 of the second component 20. When the second surface E2 of the second component 20 contacts the first surface E1 of the first component 10, the first and second components 10, 20 are secured to each other using fasteners such as screws or bolts (not shown). The steps illustrated above complete the sealing structure 100.

[0060] As described above, in this embodiment, the first and second spaces S1, S2 are connected in a sealed manner by the contact between the first protrusion 41 and the inner circumferential surface F1 of the first space S1, and the contact between the second protrusion 42 and the inner circumferential surface F2 of the second space S2. Furthermore, the contact between the stepped surface G12 of the elastic body 40 and the first surface E1 allows the position of the sealing device 30 in the direction of the central axis Z to be determined. In other words, the first and second protrusions 41, 42 maintain sealing performance while achieving the desired positioning of the sealing device 30 in the direction of the central axis Z.

[0061] In this embodiment, the first protrusion 41 is formed by a sealing lip, and the second protrusion 42 is formed by a rib. Generally, a sealing lip is more easily deformed in the radial direction than a rib. In step Q1, where the portion of the elastic body 40 corresponding to the first outer peripheral surface G1 is accommodated in the first space S1, deformation of the first protrusion 41 (sealing lip) facilitates insertion of the elastic body 40 into the first space S1. Furthermore, the contact between the stepped surface G12 of the elastic body 40 and the first surface E1 allows the sealing device 30 to be positioned in the direction of the central axis Z.

[0062] In addition, in this embodiment, the reinforcement body 50 is provided so as to extend over both the portion corresponding to the first outer peripheral surface G1 and the portion corresponding to the second outer peripheral surface G2 of the elastic body 40. Therefore, compared with the embodiment in which the reinforcement body 50 is provided only on one of the portion corresponding to the first outer peripheral surface G1 and the portion corresponding to the second outer peripheral surface G2 of the elastic body 40, or the embodiment in which the first portion 51 and the second portion 52 are different components (for example, Figure 10 Compared to a structure (such as a structure with a plurality of steps 53 and a plurality of steps 54), it is possible to appropriately maintain mechanical strength throughout the entirety of the sealing device 30. For example, mechanical strength is also ensured in the vicinity of the step surface G12 in the elastic body 40, so that the sealing device 30 can be appropriately positioned based on the contact of the step surface G12 with the first surface E1. In this embodiment, in particular, the reinforcement body 50 includes the step portion 53, making it easier to ensure mechanical strength in the vicinity of the step surface G12 in the elastic body 40. Therefore, the sealing device 30 can be easily and reliably positioned based on the contact of the step surface G12 with the first surface E1.

[0063] B: Modification

[0064] The following examples illustrate specific variations of the above-described embodiments. Two or more embodiments arbitrarily selected from the following examples may be appropriately combined within a range that does not conflict with each other.

[0065] (1) In the embodiment, the second protrusion 42 is exemplified as a rib, but the form of the second protrusion 42 is not limited to the above example. Figure 6 As illustrated, the second protrusion 42 may be formed of a sealing lip. Figure 6 The second protrusion 42 is a truncated cone-shaped sealing lip whose diameter increases in the Z2 direction. In the embodiment, the first protrusion 41 is exemplified as a sealing lip, but the first protrusion 41 may be formed of a rib.

[0066] (2) In the embodiment, the elastic body 40 includes the third protrusion 43, but Figure 7 As shown in the example, the third protrusion 43 may be omitted. Figure 3 The illustrated comparative examples are also included in the scope of this application.

[0067] (3) In the embodiment, the third protrusion 43 is shown as being spaced apart from the inner peripheral surface F1 in the standard state in which the sealing device 30 and the first component 10 are concentrically arranged. However, the third protrusion 43 may be in contact with the inner peripheral surface F1 of the first component 10 in the standard state.

[0068] (4) In the embodiment, a structure in which a step is formed between the first inner peripheral surface H1 and the second inner peripheral surface H2 constituting the inner peripheral surface H of the elastic body 40 is exemplified, but the step in the inner peripheral surface H may be omitted. For example, Figure 8 As illustrated, the inner peripheral surface H of the elastic body 40 may be a simple cylindrical surface having a substantially constant inner diameter.

[0069] (5) In the embodiment, the sealing device 30 includes the elastic body 40 and the reinforcing body 50, but Figure 9 As shown in the example, the reinforcing body 50 may be omitted. That is, the sealing device 30 may be composed of the elastic body 40 alone.

[0070] (6) In the embodiment, the first portion 51 and the second portion 52 are connected via the step portion 53 to form an integral reinforcement body 50, but the form of the reinforcement body 50 is not limited to the above example. Figure 10 As shown in the example, the first portion 51 and the second portion 52 of the reinforcement body 50 may be formed separately. Figure 10 One of the first part 51 and the second part 52.

[0071] (7) In the embodiment, the third protrusion 43 is exemplified as being annular in shape. However, the shape of the third protrusion 43 is not limited to the above example. For example, the third protrusion 43 may be formed of a plurality of protrusions arranged at intervals along the circumference of the first outer peripheral surface G1. However, according to the embodiment in which the third protrusion 43 is annular in shape, as described above, regardless of the eccentricity of the sealing device 30 relative to the first space S1, it is possible to prevent the inner peripheral surface F1 of the first space S1 from coming too close to the first outer peripheral surface G1.

[0072] (8) The term "nth" (n is a natural number) in this application is used merely as a convenient identifier (label) to distinguish between elements in the description and does not have any substantive meaning. Therefore, there is no room for restrictive interpretation of the position or manufacturing order of each element based on the term "nth".

[0073] C: Notes

[0074] According to the above-exemplified embodiment, for example, the following configurations can be understood.

[0075] A sealing device according to one embodiment of the present application (embodiment 1) is provided between a first component and a second component, wherein the first component has a first space formed on a first surface, and the second component has a second space formed on a second surface opposite the first surface, the second space having a larger diameter than the first space. The sealing device includes a tubular elastic body, the elastic body including: a first outer peripheral surface opposite the inner peripheral surface of the first space; a second outer peripheral surface opposite the inner peripheral surface of the second space, the second outer peripheral surface having a larger diameter than the first outer peripheral surface; a stepped surface forming a step between the first and second outer peripheral surfaces and in contact with the first surface; an annular first protrusion protruding from the first outer peripheral surface; and an annular second protrusion protruding from the second outer peripheral surface. In the above embodiment, the first and second spaces are connected to each other in a sealed state by the contact between the first protrusion and the inner peripheral surface of the first space and the contact between the second protrusion and the inner peripheral surface of the second space. In addition, the contact between the stepped surface of the elastic body and the first surface can determine the position of the sealing device in the axial direction. That is, the first and second protrusions can maintain sealing performance and achieve axial positioning of the sealing device.

[0076] In a specific example of Method 1 (Method 2), the first protrusion is a sealing lip that expands in diameter along the central axis of the elastomer in a direction away from the stepped surface, and the second protrusion is a rib that protrudes radially from the second outer peripheral surface. In this method, the sealing lip is more easily deformed in the radial direction than the rib. During the process of accommodating the portion of the elastomer corresponding to the first outer peripheral surface in the first space, the deformation of the sealing lip facilitates insertion of the elastomer into the first space, and the contact between the stepped surface of the elastomer and the first surface allows the sealing device to be positioned axially.

[0077] In a specific example of method 1 or method 2 (method three), a third protrusion protruding from the first outer peripheral surface between the first protrusion and the step surface is further included, and the height of the third protrusion is lower than the height of the first protrusion. In the above method, when the sealing device is eccentric relative to the first space, the third protrusion contacts the inner peripheral surface of the first space, thereby suppressing the excessive proximity of the inner peripheral surface to the first outer peripheral surface. That is, the possibility of excessive deformation of the first protrusion due to the first protrusion being pressed by the inner peripheral surface of the first space is reduced. Therefore, with respect to the first protrusion, a moderate interference fit relative to the inner peripheral surface of the first space can be maintained.

[0078] In a specific example of Method 3 (Method 4), the third protrusion is formed into an annular shape extending along the entire circumference of the first outer peripheral surface. In this method, the annular shape of the third protrusion prevents the inner peripheral surface of the first space from coming too close to the first outer peripheral surface, even if the sealing device is eccentric relative to the first space in any direction within a plane perpendicular to the central axis. Therefore, the aforementioned effect of maintaining a moderate interference fit between the first protrusion and the inner peripheral surface of the first space is particularly significant.

[0079] In any specific example of any one of the embodiments 1 to 4 (embodiment 5), a tubular reinforcement having higher rigidity than the elastic body is further included. In the above embodiment, since the reinforcement having higher rigidity than the elastic body is provided, the mechanical strength of the sealing device can be appropriately maintained compared to an embodiment in which the sealing device is composed only of the elastic body.

[0080] In a specific example of method 5 (method 6), the reinforcing body is an integral component, including a tubular first portion located on the inner side of the first outer peripheral surface and a tubular second portion located on the inner side of the second outer peripheral surface. In the above method, the reinforcing body is provided in a manner that covers both the portion corresponding to the first outer peripheral surface and the portion corresponding to the second outer peripheral surface in the elastomer. Therefore, compared with a method in which the reinforcing body is provided only on one side of the portion corresponding to the first outer peripheral surface and the portion corresponding to the second outer peripheral surface in the elastomer, or a method in which the first portion and the second portion are different components, it is possible to appropriately maintain mechanical strength throughout the entire sealing device. In particular, mechanical strength is also ensured for the portion near the step surface in the elastomer, so that the positioning of the sealing device based on the abutment of the step surface with respect to the first surface can be appropriately achieved.

[0081] In a specific example of aspect 6 (aspect 7), the second portion has a larger diameter than the first portion, and the reinforcing body further includes a stepped portion that forms a step between the first and second portions. In this aspect, since the reinforcing body includes the stepped portion, it is easier to ensure mechanical strength in the vicinity of the stepped surface of the elastic body. Consequently, positioning of the sealing device based on the contact of the stepped surface with the first surface can be easily and reliably achieved.

[0082] In any specific example of any one of Embodiments 1 to 7 (Aspect 8), the elastic body further includes: a first inner circumferential surface corresponding to the first outer circumferential surface; and a second inner circumferential surface corresponding to the second circumferential surface and having a larger diameter than the first inner circumferential surface. In this embodiment, since the second inner circumferential surface of the elastic body has a larger diameter than the first inner circumferential surface, the amount of material used in the elastic body can be reduced compared to an embodiment in which the second inner circumferential surface of the elastic body has the same diameter as the first inner circumferential surface.

[0083] The sealing structure involved in one method (method 9) of the present application includes: a first component, which has a first space formed on a first surface; a second component, which has a second space with a diameter larger than the first space formed on a second surface opposite to the first surface; a sealing device, which is arranged between the first component and the second component, and the sealing device includes a tubular elastomer, and the elastomer includes: a first outer peripheral surface, which is opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the first space; a second outer peripheral surface, which is opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the second space and has a diameter larger than the first outer peripheral surface; a step surface, which constitutes a step between the first outer peripheral surface and the second outer peripheral surface and contacts the first surface; an annular first protrusion, which protrudes from the first outer peripheral surface; and an annular second protrusion, which protrudes from the second outer peripheral surface.

[0084] Description of reference numerals:

[0085] 100…Sealed structure

[0086] 10…First component

[0087] 20…Second component

[0088] 30…Sealing device

[0089] 40…Elastomer

[0090] 41…first protrusion

[0091] 42…Second protrusion

[0092] 43…third protrusion

[0093] 50… Strengthen the body

[0094] 51…Part 1

[0095] 52…Part 2

[0096] 53…Steps

Claims

1. A sealing device disposed between a first component and a second component, wherein a first space is formed on a first surface of the first component and a second space is formed on a second surface of the second component, wherein the diameter of the second space is larger than the diameter of the first space, and the second surface is opposite to the first surface. The sealing device comprises a tubular elastic body, The elastomer comprises: a first outer peripheral surface facing the inner peripheral surface of the first space; a second outer peripheral surface facing the inner peripheral surface of the second space, wherein the diameter of the second outer peripheral surface is larger than the diameter of the first outer peripheral surface; a step surface, constituting a step between the first peripheral surface and the second peripheral surface and contacting the first surface; a first annular protrusion protruding from the first outer peripheral surface; as well as The annular second protrusion protrudes from the second outer peripheral surface.

2. The sealing device according to claim 1, wherein: The first protrusion is a sealing lip that expands in diameter along the central axis of the elastic body in a direction away from the step surface. The second protrusion is a reinforcement rib protruding radially from the second outer peripheral surface.

3. The sealing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: A third protrusion protruding from the first outer peripheral surface is further included between the first protrusion and the step surface. The height of the third protrusion is lower than that of the first protrusion.

4. The sealing device according to claim 3, wherein: The third protrusion is formed in an annular shape extending over the entire circumference of the first outer peripheral surface.

5. The sealing device according to claim 1, further comprising: The rigidity of the tubular reinforcement body is greater than that of the elastic body.

6. The sealing device according to claim 5, wherein: The reinforcement body is an integral component, comprising: a tubular first portion located inside the first outer peripheral surface; and The tubular second portion is located inside the second outer peripheral surface.

7. The sealing device according to claim 6, wherein: The diameter of the second portion is greater than the diameter of the first portion, The reinforcement body further includes a step portion constituting a step between the first portion and the second portion.

8. The sealing device according to claim 1, wherein: The elastomer further comprises: a first inner peripheral surface corresponding to the first outer peripheral surface; and The second inner circumferential surface corresponds to the second outer circumferential surface, and the diameter of the second inner circumferential surface is larger than the diameter of the first inner circumferential surface.

9. A sealing structure comprising: a first component having a first space formed on a first surface of the first component; a second component, wherein a second space is formed on a second surface of the second component, a diameter of the second space is larger than a diameter of the first space, and the second surface is opposite to the first surface; as well as a sealing device disposed between the first component and the second component, The sealing device comprises a tubular elastic body, The elastomer comprises: a first outer peripheral surface facing the inner peripheral surface of the first space; a second outer peripheral surface facing the inner peripheral surface of the second space, wherein the diameter of the second outer peripheral surface is larger than the diameter of the first outer peripheral surface; a step surface, constituting a step between the first peripheral surface and the second peripheral surface and contacting the first surface; a first annular protrusion protruding from the first outer peripheral surface; and The annular second protrusion protrudes from the second outer peripheral surface.

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