Body of valve assembly and method for manufacturing body of valve assembly

Abstract

A main body (11) of a valve assembly (1) has a gas flow path including a first flow path (12) and a second flow path (13). The first flow path (12) is configured so as to be connected to a gas tank (2) that stores gas. The second flow path (13) is configured so as to be selectively connected to one of the plurality of external devices (3). The second flow path (13) includes a main flow path partitioned by a linearly extending hole, and a sub-flow path partitioned by a linearly extending hole and intersecting the main flow path. The sub-flow path has an intersecting opening end that opens at the inner peripheral surface of the main flow path. Peripheral edge portions (61, 71) of the intersecting opening ends of the main body (11) have recessed surfaces that are recessed with respect to the center line of either the main flow path or the auxiliary flow path. The concave surface is configured such that, in a cross-section including the center line of the main flow path and the auxiliary flow path, the angle formed by the peripheral edge sections (61, 71) is larger than the intersection angle of the auxiliary flow path with respect to the main flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the body of a valve assembly and a method for manufacturing the body of the valve assembly. Background Technology

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a valve assembly for controlling the flow of gas. Such a valve assembly is, for example, installed in the gas tank of a fuel cell vehicle to control the flow of hydrogen.

[0003] The valve assembly in Patent Document 1 comprises a main body having a gas flow path and multiple valve sub-assemblies mounted on the main body. The valve sub-assemblies include a check valve that restricts the flow of hydrogen from a gas tank and a solenoid valve that controls the delivery of hydrogen to a fuel cell. The gas flow path includes multiple flow paths divided by orifices extending in a straight line and intersecting each other.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-523509 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] In valve assemblies like those described above, a simplified construction and extended lifespan are desirable.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a body of a valve assembly is provided. The body has a gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path is configured to connect to a gas tank storing gas, and the second flow path is configured to selectively connect to one of a plurality of external devices. The plurality of external devices includes a supply source for filling the gas tank and a consumption device for consuming gas supplied from the gas tank. The second flow path includes a main flow path divided by a straight-lined orifice and a secondary flow path divided by a straight-lined orifice and intersecting the main flow path. The secondary flow path has an intersecting opening end that opens into the inner circumferential surface of the main flow path. The peripheral portion of the intersecting opening end in the body has a concave surface that is recessed relative to the centerline of one of the main flow path and the secondary flow path. The concave surface is configured such that, in a cross section including the centerlines of the main flow path and the secondary flow path, the angle formed by the peripheral portion is greater than the intersection angle of the secondary flow path relative to the main flow path.

[0011] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a body of a valve assembly is provided. The body has a gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path is configured to connect to a gas tank storing gas, and the second flow path is configured to selectively connect to one of a plurality of external devices. The plurality of external devices includes a supply source for gas filling the gas tank and a consumption device for consuming gas supplied from the gas tank. The second flow path includes a main flow path divided by a straight-lined orifice and a secondary flow path divided by a straight-lined orifice and intersecting the main flow path. The secondary flow path has an intersecting opening end that opens into the inner circumferential surface of the main flow path. Compressive residual stress is applied to the periphery of the intersecting opening end in the body.

[0012] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for manufacturing the body of a valve assembly is provided. The body has a gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path is configured to connect to a gas tank storing gas, and the second flow path is configured to selectively connect to one of a plurality of external devices. The plurality of external devices includes a supply source for filling the gas tank and a consumption device for consuming gas supplied from the gas tank. The second flow path includes a main flow path divided by a straight-lined orifice and a secondary flow path divided by a straight-lined orifice and intersecting the main flow path. The secondary flow path has an intersecting opening end that opens into the inner circumferential surface of the main flow path. The peripheral portion of the intersecting opening end in the body has a concave surface that is recessed relative to the centerline of one of the main flow path and the secondary flow path. The concave surface is configured such that, in a cross section including the centerlines of the main flow path and the secondary flow path, the angle formed by the peripheral portion is larger than the intersection angle of the secondary flow path relative to the main flow path. The manufacturing method includes the following steps: a flow path forming step, forming a second flow path in the main body; and a chamfering step, forming the concave surface in the peripheral portion.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for manufacturing a body of a valve assembly is provided. The body has a gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path is configured to connect to a gas tank storing gas, and the second flow path is configured to selectively connect to one of a plurality of external devices. The plurality of external devices includes a supply source for filling the gas tank and a consumption device for consuming gas supplied from the gas tank. The second flow path includes a main flow path divided by straight-lined orifices and a secondary flow path divided by straight-lined orifices and intersecting the main flow path. The secondary flow path has an intersecting opening end that opens into the inner circumferential surface of the main flow path. The manufacturing method includes the steps of: a flow path forming step, forming the second flow path in the body; and a compression processing step, applying compressive residual stress to the periphery of the intersecting opening end of the body. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing the schematic structure of the main body of a valve assembly and the valve subassembly mounted on the main body according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 It is formed Figure 1 A schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of the second flow path process of the main body.

[0016] Figure 3 It means acting on Figure 1 A schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of the hydrogen pressure on the inner circumferential surface of the second flow path of the main body.

[0017] Figure 4A Yes Figure 1 An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the second flow path of the main body during the compression process.

[0018] Figure 4B Yes Figure 1 A schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of the second flow path of the main body after compression processing.

[0019] Figure 5 Observation from Part Two Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the first part of the second flow path of the main body.

[0020] Figure 6 It means Figure 1 A schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of the intersection of the first and second parts in the second flow path of the main body.

[0021] Figure 7 Observation from Part Two Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the third part of the second flow path of the main body.

[0022] Figure 8 It means manufacturing Figure 1 The flowchart of the main steps.

[0023] Figure 9A Yes Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of the chamfering process performed at the intersection of the second flow path.

[0024] Figure 9B Yes Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of the chamfering process performed at the intersection of the second flow path. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the valve assembly body and its manufacturing method will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] (Overall structure)

[0027] Figure 1 The valve assembly 1 shown is, for example, installed in the gas tank 2 of a fuel cell vehicle. The gas tank 2 stores hydrogen at a high pressure, for example, around 72.5 MPa. Furthermore, the valve assembly 1 is selectively connected to one of a plurality of external devices 3. The plurality of external devices 3 includes a hydrogen supply source 4 for filling the gas tank 2 and a consumption device 5 for consuming the hydrogen supplied from the gas tank 2. The supply source 4 is, for example, a hydrogen refueling station, connected to the valve assembly 1 via a piping 6. The consumption device 5 is, for example, a fuel cell mounted on the vehicle, connected to the valve assembly 1 via a piping 7. The valve assembly 1 controls the flow of hydrogen filling the gas tank 2 and hydrogen supplied from the gas tank 2.

[0028] Valve assembly 1 includes a main body 11 having a gas flow path and multiple valve sub-assemblies mounted on the main body 11. The gas flow path includes a first flow path 12 connected to the gas tank 2 and a second flow path 13 connected to an external device 3. The multiple valve sub-assemblies include, for example, a manual valve 14, a combination valve 15, a safety valve 16, a check valve 17, and an overflow prevention valve 18. The multiple valve sub-assemblies may also include any valve sub-assemblies based on or replacing these valve sub-assemblies. In addition, as shown in the figure, valve assembly 1 may also have a connector 19 for connecting to piping 6 or piping 7.

[0029] (main body)

[0030] The main body 11 is made of, for example, forged metal. The main body 11 is, for example, a cuboid with a portion extending outwards. In this embodiment, the main body 11 is a seamless, continuous one-piece. 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.

[0031] The main body 11 has multiple mounting holes corresponding to the components mounted on it. These mounting holes include, for example, a connector mounting hole 21 for mounting the connector 19, a manual valve mounting hole 22 for mounting the manual valve 14, a combined mounting hole 23 serving as a first mounting hole for mounting the safety valve 16 and the check valve 17, and a combined valve mounting hole 24 serving as a second mounting hole for mounting the combined valve 15. The combined mounting hole 23 includes a safety valve mounting hole 25 for mounting the safety valve 16 and a check valve mounting hole 26 for mounting the check valve 17.

[0032] The mounting hole 21 for the connector is, for example, a circular hole, opening on the first side surface 11a. The bottom surface of the mounting hole 21 for the connector is, for example, a plane parallel to the first side surface 11a. The mounting hole 22 for the manual valve is, for example, a circular hole, opening on the second side surface 11b. The bottom surface of the mounting hole 22 for the manual valve is, for example, a plane parallel to the second side surface 11b. The mounting hole 23 for the composite valve is, for example, a stepped circular hole, opening on the third side surface 11c. Specifically, the mounting hole 25 for the safety valve is, for example, a circular hole, opening on the third side surface 11c, which is the outer surface of the main body 11. The mounting hole 26 for the check valve is, for example, a circular hole with a smaller diameter than the mounting hole 25 for the safety valve, opening on the bottom surface of the mounting hole 25 for the safety valve. A discharge hole 27 communicating with the outside is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the mounting hole 25 for the safety valve. The bottom surface of the mounting hole 26 for the check valve is, for example, a plane parallel to the third side surface 11c. The mounting hole 24 for the composite valve is, for example, a circular hole, opening on the fourth side surface 11d. The bottom surface of the mounting hole 24 for the composite valve is, for example, a plane parallel to the fourth side 11d.

[0033] The first flow path 12 includes a filling portion 31 that connects the integrated mounting hole 23 to the gas tank 2 and a discharging portion 32 that connects the composite valve mounting hole 24 to the gas tank 2. The filling portion 31 and the discharging portion 32 are, for example, divided by the inner circumferential surface of one or more circular holes extending in a straight line. The filling portion 31 opens, for example, on the inner circumferential surface of the integrated mounting hole 23. Therefore, the safety valve 16 and the check valve 17 are connected to the gas tank 2 via the filling portion 31. The discharging portion 32 opens, for example, on the inner circumferential surface of the composite valve mounting hole 24. Thus, the composite valve 15 is connected to the gas tank 2 via the discharging portion 32. As shown, the filling portion 31 and the discharging portion 32 can also be independent flow paths. In this embodiment, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the filling portion 31 is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the discharging portion 32 over its entire area. In other embodiments, the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the filling portion 31 can be the same as or smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the discharging portion 32.

[0034] The second flow path 13 includes a first portion 33, a second portion 34, a third portion 35, and a fourth portion 36. In this embodiment, the entire second flow path 13, the connector mounting hole 21, the manual valve mounting hole 22, the combined mounting hole 23, and the composite valve mounting hole 24 are arranged in the same plane. In other embodiments, for example, at least a portion of the second flow path 13 and the associated mounting holes may not be arranged in the same plane. The first portion 33, the second portion 34, the third portion 35, and the fourth portion 36 are each divided by the inner circumferential surface of a circular hole extending in a straight line, for example. The first portion 33, the second portion 34, the third portion 35, and the fourth portion 36 are formed by drilling holes in the main body 11 using a tool such as a drill bit.

[0035] The first portion 33 opens at the bottom surface of the mounting hole 21 for the connector and extends linearly in a direction orthogonal to the first side surface 11a. The first portion 33 has a first end opening at the bottom surface of the mounting hole 21 for the connector and a second end opposite to the first end. The first end of the first portion 33 is connected to the supply source 4 or the consumption device 5 via the connector 19. That is, the first end of the first portion 33 is used as a common port 37, which is the inlet for hydrogen supplied from the supply source 4 and the outlet for hydrogen delivered to the consumption device 5. Therefore, the second flow path 13 includes the common port 37. The first portion 33 has, for example, a generally uniform circular cross-section throughout its extending direction.

[0036] The second portion 34 opens on the bottom surface of the manual valve mounting hole 22 and extends linearly from the bottom surface of the manual valve mounting hole 22 in a direction orthogonal to the second side surface 11b. The second portion 34 has a first end that opens on the bottom surface of the manual valve mounting hole 22 and a second end on the opposite side of the first end. The second end of the first portion 33 opens on the inner circumferential surface of the second portion 34. In other words, the first portion 33 intersects the second portion 34 with its second end opening on the inner circumferential surface of the second portion 34. Therefore, the second portion 34 corresponds to the main flow path, the first portion 33 corresponds to the secondary flow path that intersects the second portion 34, and the second end of the first portion 33 corresponds to the intersecting opening end. In the illustrated example, as described above, the first portion 33 and the second portion 34 extend in directions orthogonal to the first side surface 11a and the second side surface 11b, respectively, so the first portion 33 is orthogonal to the second portion 34. That is, the intersection angle of the first portion 33 with respect to the second portion 34 is approximately 90°. The inner diameter of the second part 34 changes in a stepped manner, with the boundary being a position further inward than the intersection with the first part 33. That is, the second part 34 has a stepped portion. The inner diameter of the smaller diameter portion of the second part 34 located further inward than the stepped portion is smaller than the inner diameter of the larger diameter portion located further forward than the stepped portion. The larger diameter portion and the smaller diameter portion of the second part 34 each have approximately the same circular cross-section, for example, over the entire region in the extending direction. The inner diameter of the first part 33 is smaller than the inner diameter of the larger diameter portion of the second part 34. As will be described later, the region of the second part 34 located further forward than the intersection with the first part 33 is blocked by the manual valve 14.

[0037] The third portion 35 opens, for example, on the bottom surface of the integrated mounting hole 23 (check valve mounting hole 26), and extends linearly from the bottom surface of the integrated mounting hole 23 in a direction orthogonal to the third side surface 11c. The third portion 35 has a first end opening on the bottom surface of the integrated mounting hole 23 and a second end opposite to the first end. The third portion 35 intersects the second portion 34 by opening its second end on the inner circumferential surface of the second portion 34. In other words, the second end of the third portion 35 opens on the inner circumferential surface of the second portion 34. Therefore, the second portion 34 corresponds to the main flow path, the third portion 35 corresponds to the secondary flow path intersecting the second portion 34, and the second end of the third portion 35 corresponds to the intersecting opening end. In the illustrated example, as described above, the second portion 34 and the third portion 35 extend in directions orthogonal to the second side surface 11b and the third side surface 11c, respectively, thus the third portion 35 is orthogonal to the second portion 34. That is, the intersection angle of the third portion 35 with respect to the second portion 34 is approximately 90°. As shown, the third portion 35 is, for example, orthogonal to the small-diameter portion of the second portion 34. The third part 35 connects the second part 34 to the integrated mounting hole 23. The third part 35 has a generally uniform circular cross-section, for example, throughout the extended region. The inner diameter of the third part 35 is approximately equal to the inner diameter of the minor diameter portion of the second part 34.

[0038] The fourth portion 36 opens, for example, on the bottom surface of the mounting hole 24 for the composite valve, and extends linearly from the bottom surface of the mounting hole 24 in a direction orthogonal to the fourth side surface 11d. Therefore, the fourth portion 36 extends linearly in a direction parallel to the second portion 34. The fourth portion 36 has a first end that opens on the bottom surface of the mounting hole 24 for the composite valve and a second end on the side opposite to the first end. The second end of the fourth portion 36 is connected to the second end of the second portion 34. The fourth portion 36 communicates between the second portion 34 and the mounting hole 24 for the composite valve. The fourth portion 36, for example, has a substantially uniform circular cross-section throughout its extending direction. In this embodiment, the fourth portion 36 is, for example, coaxial with the second portion 34, but in other embodiments, the axis of the fourth portion 36 may not be aligned with the axis of the second portion 34.

[0039] Therefore, the second flow path 13 connects the connector mounting hole 21 (external device) to the composite valve mounting hole 24 (composite valve 15) and the combined mounting hole 23 (safety valve 16 and check valve 17). The path between the common port 37 and the fourth part 36 in the second flow path 13 bends at a right angle only at one point between the first part 33 and the second part 34. That is, the path between the common port 37 and the fourth part 36 in the second flow path 13 is L-shaped. In addition, the path between the common port 37 and the third part 35 bends at a right angle between the first part 33 and the second part 34, and bends at a right angle between the second part 34 and the third part 35 with the third part 35 moving away from the first part 33. That is, the path between the common port 37 and the third part 35 is crank-shaped.

[0040] The connector 19 is made of, for example, a metal material. The connector 19 is, for example, cylindrical. The connector 19 has a connector flow path 38. The connector flow path 38 is, for example, divided by the inner circumferential surface of a circular hole extending in a straight line. The connector flow path 38 extends in a straight line along the axial direction of the connector 19 and is open at both end faces of the connector 19. The connector 19 is fixed to the connector mounting hole 21 by any fixing method such as threaded fastening or press-fitting. Thus, the connector flow path 38 communicates with the first part 33. One of the pipes 6 and 7 is connected to the connector 19. Thus, the supply source 4 or the consumable device 5 is connected to the second flow path 13 via the connector flow path 38.

[0041] (Multiple valve subassemblies)

[0042] The manual valve 14 includes a manual valve housing 41 and a manual valve core 42. The manual valve housing 41 is, for example, cylindrical. The manual valve housing 41 is fixed to the manual valve mounting hole 22 by any fixing method such as threaded fastening or press-fitting. The manual valve core 42 is, for example, cylindrical. The manual valve core 42 is housed within the manual valve housing 41 by threaded fastening in a manner that allows it to move along the second portion 34 of the second flow path 13 and maintain its position within the manual valve housing 41.

[0043] In the manual valve 14 constructed in this manner, the end portion of the manual valve core 42 abuts against the stepped portion of the second part 34, thereby restricting the flow of hydrogen between the first part 33 and the second part 34. Conversely, the end portion of the manual valve core 42 separates from the stepped portion of the second part 34, thereby allowing hydrogen to flow between the first part 33 and the second part 34. The manual valve core 42 blocks the area in the second part 34 that is closer to the front of the intersection position with the first part 33.

[0044] The composite valve 15 is installed in the composite valve mounting hole 24. The composite valve 15 has a solenoid valve section that functions as a solenoid valve and a check valve section that functions as a check valve. The solenoid valve section is equivalent to a solenoid valve as a valve subassembly, and the check valve section is equivalent to a check valve as a valve subassembly. That is, the solenoid valve and the check valve are installed in a single composite valve mounting hole 24. The composite valve 15 controls the flow of hydrogen between the outlet portion 32 of the first flow path 12 and the fourth portion 36 of the second flow path 13.

[0045] Specifically, the solenoid valve controls the flow of hydrogen between the delivery section 32 and the fourth section 36. A check valve is positioned between the solenoid valve and the fourth section 36. Furthermore, the check valve allows hydrogen to flow from the delivery section 32 to the fourth section 36, while restricting the flow of hydrogen from the fourth section 36 to the delivery section 32. Thus, when the solenoid valve is open, hydrogen in the gas tank 2 is delivered via the fourth section 36. On the other hand, during hydrogen filling, high-pressure hydrogen is prevented from acting on the solenoid valve.

[0046] Safety valve 16 has an inlet 43 that communicates with the first flow path 12 regardless of the opening or closing state of check valve 17. When the temperature of safety valve 16 is below a threshold temperature, safety valve 16 is in a closed state, preventing the release of hydrogen gas flowing into inlet 43 to the outside. When the temperature of safety valve 16 exceeds the threshold temperature, safety valve 16 irreversibly changes from the closed state to the open state. In the open state, safety valve 16 releases hydrogen gas flowing into inlet 43 to the outside through vent hole 27. The threshold temperature is preset to prevent the pressure of hydrogen gas in gas tank 2 from becoming too high and damaging gas tank 2.

[0047] The check valve 17 is configured to prevent backflow of gas filled in the gas tank 2. Specifically, the check valve 17 restricts the flow of hydrogen from the filling section 31 of the first flow path 12 to the third section 35 of the second flow path 13, and allows the flow of hydrogen from the third section 35 to the filling section 31.

[0048] An overflow prevention valve 18 is provided within the connector flow path 38. The overflow prevention valve 18 is configured to restrict the flow of hydrogen in the connector flow path 38 if the flow rate of hydrogen flowing in a predetermined direction exceeds a preset predetermined amount. The predetermined direction is, for example, the direction in which hydrogen is supplied from the gas tank 2 to the consumption device 5. The overflow prevention valve 18 does not restrict the flow rate of hydrogen in the opposite direction, i.e., the direction in which hydrogen is supplied from the supply source 4 to the gas tank 2 for filling.

[0049] (Valve assembly operation)

[0050] When filling the gas tank 2 with hydrogen, the supply source 4 is connected to the connector 19 via the piping 6. When hydrogen is supplied from the supply source 4, the hydrogen flows into the check valve 17 via the connector flow path 38, the first portion 33, the second portion 34, and the third portion 35 of the second flow path 13. As described above, the check valve 17 is configured to allow hydrogen to flow from the third portion 35 to the filling portion 31, and is therefore in an open state. As a result, the third portion 35 is connected to the filling portion 31 of the first flow path 12. Therefore, hydrogen is filled into the gas tank 2 via the filling portion 31. At this time, hydrogen also flows from the second portion 34 of the second flow path 13 to the check valve section of the compound valve 15 via the fourth portion 36. However, the check valve section is configured to restrict the flow of hydrogen from the fourth portion 36 to the delivery portion 32, and is therefore in a closed state. Thus, hydrogen does not flow from the second flow path 13 into the delivery portion 32.

[0051] When hydrogen is supplied to the consumption device 5, the consumption device 5 is connected to the connector 19 via piping 7. Hydrogen in the tank 2 flows into the compound valve 15 via the supply portion 32 of the first flow path 12. When the solenoid valve portion of the compound valve 15 is controlled to be open, hydrogen flows into the check valve portion. The check valve portion is configured to allow hydrogen to flow from the supply portion 32 to the fourth portion 36, and is therefore in the open state. Thus, hydrogen flows into the fourth portion 36, the second portion 34, the first portion 33, and the connector flow path 38 of the second flow path 13, and is supplied to the consumption device 5 via piping 7. At this time, hydrogen also flows from the second portion 34 of the second flow path 13 through the third portion 35 into the check valve 17. However, the check valve 17 is closed due to the pressure of the hydrogen stored in the tank 2. Therefore, hydrogen does not flow from the third portion 35 into the filling portion 31.

[0052] Thus, a portion of the second flow path 13 is used as both the hydrogen filling path and the hydrogen supply path. In other words, a portion of the hydrogen filling path and a portion of the hydrogen supply path are shared. Consequently, the shape of the gas flow path is simplified compared to the case where the filling path and the supply path are independent.

[0053] (Fatigue failure of the main body and its countermeasures)

[0054] Here, the inventors conducted an in-depth study and as a result, identified the following main causes of fatigue damage that may occur in the main body 11 due to long-term use.

[0055] First, when the second flow path 13 is formed by drilling as described above, tensile residual stress is applied to the surface layer of the inner circumferential surface containing the second flow path 13. Specifically, as... Figure 2As shown, the second flow path 13 is formed by tearing off a portion of the main body 11 using the cutting edge 51 of a rotating tool. Therefore, tensile stress is applied to the surface layer of the second flow path 13 during its formation. As a result, tensile residual stress is applied to the surface layer of the second flow path 13.

[0056] Second, tensile stress acts on the surface layer of the second flow path 13 due to the pressure of the hydrogen gas flowing inside. Specifically, the pressure of the hydrogen gas acts on the inner circumferential surface of the second flow path 13, such as... Figure 3 As shown by the double-dotted line, the inner circumferential surface expands. Consequently, tensile stress acts on the surface layer of the second flow path 13. Furthermore, this tensile stress overlaps with the tensile residual stress applied during flow path formation, resulting in a larger tensile stress acting on the surface layer of the second flow path 13.

[0057] Third, due to the pressure changes accompanying the filling and discharging of hydrogen, tensile stress repeatedly acts on the surface layer of the second flow path 13. Specifically, during hydrogen filling, hydrogen flows into the second flow path 13 from the supply source 4, thereby changing the pressure of the hydrogen within the second flow path 13 from a low state to a high state. Hydrogen is filled whenever the hydrogen stored in the gas tank 2 decreases. Therefore, due to the pressure changes accompanying hydrogen filling, tensile stress repeatedly acts on the surface layer of the second flow path 13. Furthermore, during hydrogen discharging, hydrogen flows into the second flow path 13 through the open state of the composite valve 15, thereby changing the pressure of the hydrogen within the second flow path 13 from a low state to a high state. Hydrogen discharging occurs each time hydrogen is consumed by the hydrogen consumption device 5. Therefore, due to the pressure changes accompanying hydrogen discharging, tensile stress repeatedly acts on the surface layer of the second flow path 13. In particular, in the second flow path 13 of this embodiment, since a portion of the filling path and a portion of the supply path are shared, the tensile stress acts on this shared portion more frequently.

[0058] Fourth, stress concentration occurs at the intersection of the second flow path 13 in the main body 11. Specifically, as... Figure 1 As shown, stress concentration occurs at the periphery 61 of the cross opening end (i.e., the second end) of the first part 33 and at the periphery 71 of the cross opening end (i.e., the second end) of the third part 35.

[0059] Therefore, in the main body 11 where the second flow path 13 is formed only by drilling, large tensile stresses act on the peripheral portions 61 and 71 of the first portion 33 and the third portion 35 due to the tensile residual stress and stress concentration applied during the flow path formation. Moreover, such large tensile stresses act repeatedly, which easily leads to fatigue failure in the peripheral portions 61 and 71, resulting in a reduced lifespan of the valve assembly 1.

[0060] Based on the above investigation, in the valve assembly 1 of this embodiment, compressive residual stress is applied to the peripheral portions 61 and 71 of the cross opening ends of the first portion 33 and the third portion 35 in the main body 11 by compression processing, and a concave surface is provided by chamfering processing.

[0061] In detail, such as Figure 4A As shown, the compression process includes a polishing step in which the tool 52 is pressed against the inner circumferential surface of the second flow path 13 while the tool 52 slides. Through the polishing step, the inner circumferential surface of the second flow path 13 is expanded, and only the surface layer undergoes plastic deformation. At this time, the outer circumferential region of the surface layer in the main body 11 becomes an elastic region capable of elastic deformation. It should be noted that in... Figure 4A In the diagram, for ease of explanation, a double-dotted line is used to schematically represent the boundary between the surface layer undergoing plastic deformation and the elastic region undergoing elastic deformation. Therefore, as... Figure 4B As shown, when tool 52 is removed from the second flow path 13, the elastic region attempts to recover, thereby applying compressive stress to the surface layer. This results in residual compressive stress on the peripheral portions 61 and 71. For example, the compression process can be reaming or burnishing. In this embodiment, the first portion 33, the second portion 34, and the third portion 35 of the second flow path 13 are subjected to compression processing as a whole. In other embodiments, for example, compression processing may be performed only on the peripheral portions 61 and 71.

[0062] like Figures 5-7 As shown, the peripheral portions 61 and 71 have first concave surfaces 62 and 72 and second concave surfaces 63 and 73. Hereinafter, the plane containing the center line L1 of the first portion 33 and the center line L2 of the second portion 34 will be referred to as the first plane, and the plane containing the center line L2 of the second portion 34 and the center line of the third portion 35 will be referred to as the second plane. As described above, the entire second flow path 13 is arranged in the same plane; therefore, in this embodiment, the first plane and the second plane coincide. Figure 6 The first plane cuts through the cross-section of the main body 11. The second plane cuts through the cross-section of the main body 11, particularly the cross-section near the periphery 71. Figure 6 They are the same, so they are omitted.

[0063] In detail, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, viewed from the direction along the centerline L1 of the first portion 33, the first concave surface 62 of the peripheral portion 61 is annular, extending circumferentially along the first portion 33. The first concave surface 62 is provided throughout the entire circumference of the peripheral portion 61. In a cross-sectional view including the centerlines L1 and L2 of the first portion 33 and the second portion 34, the first concave surface 62 is recessed relative to the centerline L2 of the second portion 34, which is the main flow path. The first concave surface 62 is, for example, an arc-shaped recess.

[0064] The second concave surface 63 of the peripheral portion 61 is continuously provided with the first concave surface 62. The second concave surface 63 is provided only in a portion of the circumferential range of the peripheral portion 61 that includes the portion intersecting with the first plane. The circumferential range in which the second concave surface 63 is provided is any range less than 180°, for example, set to a range of about 60° to 150°. That is, when viewed from the direction along the center line L1 of the first portion 33, the second concave surface 63 is an arc extending circumferentially along the first portion 33. In a cross-sectional view including the center lines L1 and L2 of the first portion 33 and the second portion 34, the second concave surface 63 is recessed relative to the center line L1 of the first portion 33, which is a secondary flow path. The second concave surface 63 is, for example, an arc-shaped recess.

[0065] Therefore, in the cross-section including the center lines L1 and L2 of the first part 33 and the second part 34, the angle of the peripheral portion 61 before chamfering is approximately 90°, and in contrast, the angle of the peripheral portion 61 after chamfering is an obtuse angle greater than 90°. That is, the first concave surface 62 and the second concave surface 63, in the cross-section including the center lines L1 and L2 of the first part 33 and the second part 34, have a shape in which the angle formed by the peripheral portion 61 is greater than the intersection angle of the first part 33 with respect to the second part 34. It should be noted that in Figure 6 In the middle, the periphery 61 before the chamfering process is represented by a double-dotted line.

[0066] like Figure 7 As shown, the first concave surface 72 is only provided in a portion of the circumferential range of the peripheral portion 71 that includes the portion intersecting with the second plane. That is, viewed from the direction along the center line of the third portion 35, the first concave surface 72 of the peripheral portion 71 is an arc shape extending circumferentially along the third portion 35. The circumferential range of the first concave surface 72 can be set in the same way as the second concave surface 63. In a cross-sectional view including the center line L2 of the second portion 34 and the center line of the third portion 35, the first concave surface 72 is recessed relative to the center line L2 of the second portion 34, which is the main path. The first concave surface 72 is, for example, an arc-shaped recess.

[0067] The second concave surface 73 of the peripheral portion 71 is continuously provided with the first concave surface 72. The second concave surface 73 is provided only in a portion of the circumferential range of the peripheral portion 71 that includes the portion intersecting with the second plane. That is, when viewed from the direction along the center line of the third portion 35, the second concave surface 73 is an arc shape extending circumferentially along the third portion 35. The circumferential range of the second concave surface 73 may be provided in the same way as the second concave surface 63. In a cross-sectional view including the center line L2 of the second portion 34 and the center line of the third portion 35, the second concave surface 73 is recessed relative to the center line of the third portion 35, which is a secondary flow path. The second concave surface 73 is, for example, an arc-shaped recess.

[0068] Therefore, similar to the peripheral portion 61, the angle of the peripheral portion 71 after chamfering is an obtuse angle greater than 90°. That is, the first concave surface 72 and the second concave surface 73 have the following shape: in a cross-section including the center line L2 of the second portion 34 and the center line of the third portion 35, the angle formed by the peripheral portion 71 is greater than the intersection angle of the third portion 35 with respect to the second portion 34.

[0069] Next, the manufacturing method of the main body 11 will be explained.

[0070] like Figure 8 As shown, firstly, the main body 11, i.e. the unprocessed main body, is prepared before multiple mounting holes and gas flow paths are formed (step 101).

[0071] Next, multiple mounting holes and gas flow paths are formed in the unprocessed body (step 102). In step 102, the multiple mounting holes and the first flow path 12 can be formed before or after the second flow path 13 is formed. The second flow path 13 is formed by hole-making as described above. The multiple mounting holes and the first flow path 12 are formed by the same hole-making process as the second flow path 13 or by other processes.

[0072] Next, compression processing is performed on the second flow path 13 (step 103). After that, chamfering processing is performed on the peripheral portions 61 and 71 of the first portion 33 and the third portion 35 (step 104).

[0073] like Figure 9A As shown, in step 104, a tool 53 is inserted into the second portion 34 to form a first concave surface 62 on the peripheral portion 61. Similarly, a first concave surface 72 is formed on the peripheral portion 71.

[0074] Next, as Figure 9B As shown, a tool 53 is inserted into the first portion 33 to form a second concave surface 63 on the peripheral portion 61. Similarly, a tool is inserted into the third portion 35 to form a second concave surface 73 on the peripheral portion 71.

[0075] Thus, manufacturing entity 11 is achieved. It should be noted that this manufacturing method may also include any other steps before, during, or after steps 101-104. Next, the function and effects of this embodiment will be explained.

[0076] (1) Since the second flow path 13 is configured to be selectively connected to one of the supply source 4 and the consumption device 5, a portion of the hydrogen filling path and a portion of the hydrogen supply path in the gas flow path can be shared. As a result, compared with the case where the filling path and the supply path are independent of each other, the shape of the gas flow path can be simplified and the construction of the main body 11 can be simplified.

[0077] The peripheral portion 61 has a concave surface, so the angle formed by the peripheral portion 61 is larger than the intersection angle of the first portion 33 with respect to the second portion 34. Similarly, the peripheral portion 71 has a concave surface, so the angle formed by the peripheral portion 71 is larger than the intersection angle of the third portion 35 with respect to the second portion 34. Therefore, for example, it is possible to suppress abrupt changes in the cross-sectional shape of the peripheral portions 61 and 71 along the second flow path 13. That is, it is possible to reduce the stress concentration factor of the peripheral portions 61 and 71. Consequently, the stress acting on the peripheral portions 61 and 71 can be reduced. As a result, the main body 11 is less prone to fatigue failure, and a longer service life of the valve assembly 1 can be achieved.

[0078] Furthermore, the peripheral portions 61 and 71 are chamfered using concave surfaces, thus making chamfering easier compared to chamfering using flat or convex surfaces.

[0079] (2) The peripheral portion 61 has a first concave surface 62 recessed relative to the center line L2 of the second portion 34 and a second concave surface 63 recessed relative to the center line L1 of the first portion 33. The second concave surface 63 is continuously provided with the first concave surface 62. Therefore, compared with the case where the peripheral portion 61 only has the first concave surface 62, the stress concentration factor of the peripheral portion 61 can be appropriately reduced. In addition, the peripheral portion 71 has a first concave surface 72 recessed relative to the center line L2 of the second portion 34 and a second concave surface 73 recessed relative to the center line of the third portion 35. The second concave surface 73 is continuously provided with the first concave surface 72. Therefore, compared with the case where the peripheral portion 71 only has the first concave surface 72, the stress concentration factor of the peripheral portion 71 can be appropriately reduced.

[0080] (3) The second concave surface 63 is provided only in a portion of the circumferential range of the peripheral portion 61 that includes the portion intersecting the first plane. Therefore, compared to providing the second concave surface 63 throughout the entire circumference of the peripheral portion 61, the chamfering time can be reduced. Here, the stress concentration factor is greatest at the position in the peripheral portion 61 where it intersects the first plane, and gradually decreases as it moves away from this position in the circumferential direction. Therefore, according to the above structure, by providing the second concave surface 63 in the portion of the peripheral portion 61 with a high stress concentration factor, the stress acting on the peripheral portion 61 can be effectively reduced.

[0081] Furthermore, the first concave surface 72 and the second concave surface 73 are only provided in a portion of the circumferential range of the peripheral portion 71, including the portion intersecting with the second plane. Therefore, the chamfering process time can be reduced, and the stress acting on the peripheral portion 71 can be effectively reduced.

[0082] (4) Apply compressive residual stress to the peripheral portions 61 and 71. Therefore, the tensile stress acting on the surface layer of the gas flow path due to the pressure changes accompanying the filling and delivery of hydrogen cancels out the compressive residual stress. As a result, the stress acting on the peripheral portions 61 and 71 can be reduced.

[0083] This embodiment can be modified as follows. This embodiment and the following variations can be combined with each other within the scope of technical inconsistency.

[0084] The peripheral portion 61 may also have only a first concave surface 62 or a second concave surface 63. Similarly, the peripheral portion 71 may also have only a first concave surface 72 or a second concave surface 73.

[0085] The first concave surface 62 may be provided only in a portion of the circumferential range of the peripheral portion 61, including the portion intersecting with the first plane. Conversely, the second concave surface 63 may be provided throughout the entire circumference of the peripheral portion 61. Similarly, the first concave surface 72 and the second concave surface 73 may also be provided throughout the entire circumference of the peripheral portion 71.

[0086] • Alternatively, only one of the peripheral portions 61 and 71 may be subjected to chamfering and compression machining, or at least one of them.

[0087] Alternatively, the peripheral portions 61 and 71 may not undergo compression processing, but only chamfering. In other words, as long as the peripheral portions 61 and 71 have concave surfaces, they may not be subjected to compressive residual stress.

[0088] • Alternatively, chamfering can be omitted from the peripheral portions 61 and 71, and only compression machining can be performed. In other words, the peripheral portions 61 and 71 may not have concave surfaces as long as compressive residual stress is applied.

[0089] • Alternatively, the compression process can be performed after the chamfering process.

[0090] • The first part 33 may not be orthogonal to the second part 34. That is, the angle of intersection of the first part 33 with respect to the second part 34 may be, for example, an acute or obtuse angle such as 30°, 45°, 60°, 120°, 135°, or 150°. Similarly, the third part 35 may not be orthogonal to the second part 34.

[0091] • At least one of chamfering and compression machining can also be performed on the connection between the second part 34 and the fourth part 36.

[0092] The second flow path 13 can also be formed on the body 11 through other processes besides hole-making.

[0093] The shape of the second flow path 13 can be appropriately modified. For example, the third portion 35 can intersect the second portion 34 in a manner coaxial with the first portion 33. Additionally, the fourth portion 36 can, for example, be orthogonal to the second portion 34. In this case, at least one of chamfering and compression machining can be performed on the intersection of the second portion 34 and the fourth portion 36. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the first portion 33 can be approximately equal to, or larger than, the inner diameter of the larger diameter portion of the second portion 34. The inner diameter of the third portion 35 can be larger or smaller than the inner diameter of the smaller diameter portion of the second portion 34.

[0094] The valve assembly 1 may also include a solenoid valve and a check valve independent of the solenoid valve to replace the composite valve 15. Alternatively, the composite valve 15 may only have a solenoid valve section and not a check valve section.

[0095] Valve assembly 1 controls the flow of high-pressure hydrogen, but is not limited to this; it can also control the flow of gases other than hydrogen.

[0096] Next, the technical ideas that can be grasped based on the above-described embodiments and variations are further described below.

[0097] (Note 1) Alternatively, the valve assembly may include multiple valve sub-assemblies mounted on the main body, wherein... The main body also has a first mounting hole connected to the first flow path and the second flow path, and a second mounting hole connected to the first flow path and the second flow path. The valve subassembly includes: A check valve installed in the first mounting hole; and The solenoid valve installed in the second mounting hole The first flow path includes: The filling portion that connects the first mounting hole to the gas cylinder; and The delivery portion connects the second mounting hole to the gas cylinder. The second flow path includes: The common port is the inlet for the gas supplied from the supply source and the outlet for the gas sent to the consuming device. A straight first portion extends from the common port; The second, linear portion extends in a direction intersecting the first portion; The third, linear portion connects the first mounting hole to the second portion; and The fourth, straight section connects the second mounting hole to the second section. The check valve is configured to restrict the flow of gas from the filling section to the third section, and allow the flow of gas from the third section to the filling section. The solenoid valve is configured to control the flow of gas from the outlet section to the fourth section. The first part intersects the second part by opening one end of the first part into the inner circumferential surface of the second part. The third part intersects the second part by opening one end of the third part on the inner circumferential surface of the second part. The first part and the third part constitute the secondary flow path, and the second part constitutes the main flow path.

[0098] (Note 2) Alternatively, the concave surface may be provided only in a portion of the circumferential range of the peripheral portion, including the portion that intersects with the plane containing the centerline of the main flow path and the secondary flow path.

[0099] (Note 3) Alternatively, the flow path forming step may include the step of performing hole processing on the body. Claims (as amended under Article 19 of the Treaty) 1. A body of a valve assembly, wherein, The main body has a gas flow path, which includes a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path is configured to connect to a gas tank for storing gas. The second flow path is configured to selectively connect to one of a plurality of external devices. The plurality of external devices include a supply source for the gas filling the gas tank and a consumption device for consuming the gas supplied from the gas tank. The second flow path includes a main flow path divided by straight-lined holes and a secondary flow path divided by straight-lined holes and intersecting the main flow path. The secondary flow path has a cross-opening end that opens onto the inner circumferential surface of the main flow path. The peripheral portion of the intersecting opening end in the main body has a concave surface, which is recessed relative to the centerline of one of the main flow path and the secondary flow path. The concave surface is configured such that, in a cross-section including the centerlines of the main flow path and the secondary flow path, the angle formed by the peripheral portion is greater than the intersection angle of the secondary flow path relative to the main flow path. The concave surface is the first concave surface. The peripheral portion also has a second concave surface, which is recessed relative to the centerline of the other of the main flow path and the secondary flow path, and is continuously disposed with the first concave surface. The second concave surface is configured such that, in a cross section including the center lines of the main flow path and the secondary flow path, the angle formed by the peripheral portion is greater than the intersection angle. 2. The body of the valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The second concave surface is only provided on a portion of the circumferential range of the peripheral portion, including the portion that intersects with the plane containing the center line of the main flow path and the secondary flow path. 3. The body of the valve assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Compressive residual stress is applied to the periphery. 4. A method for manufacturing the body of a valve assembly, wherein, The main body has a gas flow path, which includes a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path is configured to connect to a gas tank for storing gas. The second flow path is configured to selectively connect to one of a plurality of external devices. The plurality of external devices include a supply source for the gas filling the gas tank and a consumption device for consuming the gas supplied from the gas tank. The second flow path includes a main flow path divided by straight-lined holes and a secondary flow path divided by straight-lined holes and intersecting the main flow path. The secondary flow path has a cross-opening end that opens onto the inner circumferential surface of the main flow path. The peripheral portion of the intersecting opening end in the main body has a concave surface, which is recessed relative to the centerline of one of the main flow path and the secondary flow path. The concave surface is configured such that, in a cross-section including the centerlines of the main flow path and the secondary flow path, the angle formed by the peripheral portion is greater than the intersection angle of the secondary flow path relative to the main flow path. The manufacturing method includes the following steps: The flow path forming step involves forming the second flow path in the main body; and The chamfering process involves forming the concave surface on the peripheral edge. The concave surface is the first concave surface. The peripheral portion also has a second concave surface, which is recessed relative to the centerline of the other of the main flow path and the secondary flow path, and is continuously disposed with the first concave surface. The second concave surface is configured such that, in a cross-section including the centerlines of the main flow path and the secondary flow path, the angle formed by the peripheral portion is greater than the intersection angle. The chamfering process includes the following steps: Insert a tool into one of the main flow path and the secondary flow path to form the first concave surface at the periphery; and Insert a tool into the other of the main flow path and the secondary flow path to form the second concave surface at the periphery. 5. The method for manufacturing the body of the valve assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The manufacturing method further includes a compression processing step of applying compressive residual stress to the peripheral portion. The compression process is performed before the chamfering process.

Claims

1. A valve assembly main body, wherein the main body has a gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path is configured to be connected to a gas tank that stores a gas, the second flow path is configured to be selectively connected to one of a plurality of external devices, the plurality of external devices include a supply source that supplies the gas to the gas tank and a consumption device that consumes the gas sent from the gas tank, the second flow path includes a main flow path divided by a hole extending in a straight line and a sub flow path divided by a hole extending in a straight line and intersecting the main flow path, the sub flow path has an intersection opening end that is opened at an inner peripheral surface of the main flow path, a peripheral edge portion of the intersection opening end in the main body has a concave surface that is recessed with respect to a center line of one of the main flow path and the sub flow path, the concave surface is configured so that an angle made by the peripheral edge portion is larger than an intersection angle of the sub flow path with respect to the main flow path in a cross section including the center lines of the main flow path and the sub flow path.

2. The valve assembly main body according to claim 1, wherein the concave surface is a first concave surface, the peripheral edge portion further has a second concave surface that is recessed with respect to a center line of the other one of the main flow path and the sub flow path and is continuously provided with the first concave surface, the second concave surface is configured so that an angle made by the peripheral edge portion is larger than the intersection angle in the cross section including the center lines of the main flow path and the sub flow path.

3. The valve assembly main body according to claim 2, wherein the second concave surface is provided only in a part of a circumferential range of the peripheral edge portion including a portion intersecting a plane including the center lines of the main flow path and the sub flow path.

4. The valve assembly main body according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a compressive residual stress is applied to the peripheral edge portion.

5. A valve assembly main body, wherein the main body has a gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path is configured to be connected to a gas tank that stores a gas, the second flow path is configured to be selectively connected to one of a plurality of external devices, the plurality of external devices include a supply source that supplies the gas to the gas tank and a consumption device that consumes the gas sent from the gas tank, the second flow path includes a main flow path divided by a hole extending in a straight line and a sub flow path divided by a hole extending in a straight line and intersecting the main flow path, the sub flow path has an intersection opening end that is opened at an inner peripheral surface of the main flow path, a compressive residual stress is applied to a peripheral edge portion of the intersection opening end in the main body.

6. A method of manufacturing a valve assembly main body, wherein the main body has a gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path is configured to be connected to a gas tank that stores a gas, the second flow path is configured to be selectively connected to one of a plurality of external devices, the plurality of external devices include a supply source that supplies the gas to the gas tank and a consumption device that consumes the gas sent from the gas tank, The second flow path includes a main flow path divided by a hole extending linearly and a sub flow path divided by a hole extending linearly and intersecting the main flow path, The sub flow path has an intersection opening end opening in an inner peripheral surface of the main flow path, A peripheral edge portion of the intersection opening end in the main body has a concave surface recessed with respect to a center line of one of the main flow path and the sub flow path, The concave surface is configured so that an angle made by the peripheral edge portion is larger than an intersection angle of the sub flow path with respect to the main flow path in a cross section including the center lines of the main flow path and the sub flow path, The manufacturing method includes the following steps: A flow path forming step of forming the second flow path in the main body; and A chamfering step of forming the concave surface in the peripheral edge portion.

7. The manufacturing method of the main body of the valve assembly according to claim 6, wherein The concave surface is a first concave surface, The peripheral edge portion further has a second concave surface recessed with respect to a center line of the other of the main flow path and the sub flow path and disposed continuously with the first concave surface, The second concave surface is configured so that an angle made by the peripheral edge portion is larger than the intersection angle in the cross section including the center lines of the main flow path and the sub flow path, The chamfering step includes the following steps: Inserting a tool into one of the main flow path and the sub flow path to form the first concave surface in the peripheral edge portion; and Inserting a tool into the other of the main flow path and the sub flow path to form the second concave surface in the peripheral edge portion.

8. The manufacturing method of the main body of the valve assembly according to claim 6 or 7, wherein The manufacturing method further includes a compression working step of applying a compressive residual stress to the peripheral edge portion, The compression working step is performed before the chamfering step.

9. A manufacturing method of a main body of a valve assembly, wherein The main body has a gas flow path including a first flow path and a second flow path, The first flow path is configured to be connected to a gas tank storing a gas, The second flow path is configured to be selectively connected to one of a plurality of external devices, The plurality of external devices include a supply source of the gas to fill the gas tank and a consumption device to consume the gas sent from the gas tank, The second flow path includes a main flow path divided by a hole extending linearly and a sub flow path divided by a hole extending linearly and intersecting the main flow path, The sub flow path has an intersection opening end opening in an inner peripheral surface of the main flow path, The manufacturing method includes the following steps: A flow path forming step of forming the second flow path in the main body; and A compression working step of applying a compressive residual stress to a peripheral edge portion of the intersection opening end in the main body.

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