Ventilation structure

Abstract

In the provided ventilation structure, a ventilation member is provided with: an inner member that contains an elastic material and has an open pipe structure; and an outer member having a closed pipe structure. The inner member is fixed to the outer member in a state in which the inner member is inserted into the outer member and an air passage is secured between the inner member and the outer member. The ventilation member is fixed to the housing in a state in which the protrusion of the housing is inserted into the interior of the inner member from the opening on one side of the inner member and the inner peripheral surface of the inner member is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion. The outer peripheral surface of the protrusion of the housing has a recessed portion or a roughened surface portion that has been roughened. The retreating part is located at a position away from the front end of the protrusion. The inner peripheral surface of the inner member is in contact with the rough surface portion or deforms in a direction approaching the axis of the ventilation member at the retreated portion. This configuration facilitates preventing the vent member from falling off from the protrusion of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a ventilation structure having a housing and ventilation components. Background Technology

[0002] Vents are sometimes provided in the housings of automotive electrical components such as lights, transducers, converters, electronic control units (ECUs), battery packs, radars, and cameras, as well as various electronic devices used in homes, medical settings, and offices, to connect the internal space of the housing with the external space. These vents ensure ventilation between the inside and outside of the housing and mitigate pressure fluctuations within the housing. Patent Document 1 discloses a venting component fixed to the housing in a manner that covers the vent. By fixing the venting component, it is possible to prevent liquids such as water and oil, or dust, from entering the housing through the vent.

[0003] The conventional ventilation structure that uses the ventilation component of Patent Document 1 is in Figure 13 As shown in [the image]. Figure 13 The image shows the ventilation component 103 and the portion of the housing 102 in which the ventilation component 103 is fixed, as well as its vicinity. Figure 13 The ventilated structure 101 includes a housing 102 and a ventilated component 103. The housing 102 has a cylindrical protrusion 108 on its outer surface 109, which protrudes towards the edge 107 of a vent 106 that communicates with the internal space 104 and the external space 105 of the housing 102. The ventilated component 103 includes an inner member 110 with an open-pipe structure and an outer member 114 with a closed-pipe structure. The inner member 110 and the outer member 114 are fixed to each other in a manner that ensures a ventilation passage 115 between the two members. The ventilated component 103 is fixed to the housing 102 in a manner where the protrusion 108 of the housing 102 is inserted into the interior of the inner member 110 through an opening 111 on one side of the inner member 110, and the inner peripheral surface 112 of the inner member 110 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 113 of the protrusion 108. The venting component 103 is fixed in a manner that covers the vent 106, ensuring ventilation 117 between the internal space 104 and the external space 105, and preventing liquid and dust from entering the interior of the housing 102 from the vent 106. Additionally, reference numeral 116 indicates a venting membrane.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2021 / 145383 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In a ventilated structure in which a ventilated component is fixed to a protrusion on the housing, it is required to prevent the ventilated component from accidentally falling off the protrusion. Figure 13The ventilation structure warrants further investigation from the viewpoint of preventing the aforementioned detachment. The object of this invention is to provide a ventilation structure comprising a housing and a protrusion fixed to the housing, which facilitates preventing the ventilation component from detaching from the protrusion.

[0008] Solution for solving the problem

[0009] This invention provides a ventilated structure comprising a shell and ventilated components. The aforementioned housing has protrusions on its outer surface, which protrude in a cylindrical shape toward the edge of the vent that connects the internal space of the housing with the external space. The above-mentioned ventilation components include: Internal components, comprising elastic material, having an open tube structure; and External components have a closed-tube structure. The aforementioned internal component is fixed to the aforementioned external component in a manner in which the internal component is inserted inside the aforementioned external component, and an air passage is ensured between the aforementioned internal component and the aforementioned external component. The aforementioned ventilation component is fixed to the housing by inserting the aforementioned protrusion of the housing into the interior of the internal component through an opening on one side of the internal component, with the inner peripheral surface of the internal component abutting against the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned protrusion. Thus, in the aforementioned ventilation structure, gas can circulate between the aforementioned internal space and the aforementioned external space via the aforementioned ventilation path. The aforementioned protrusion has a recessed portion or a roughened surface. The aforementioned rear portion is located at a position that separates from the front end of the aforementioned protrusion. The inner circumferential surface of the aforementioned internal component contacts the aforementioned rough surface or deforms at the aforementioned rear portion in a direction approaching the axis of the aforementioned ventilation component.

[0010] Invention Effects

[0011] The ventilation structure of the present invention helps to prevent the ventilation component from falling off the protrusion. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1A This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the ventilation structure of Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 1B This is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the ventilation structure of Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a top view schematically showing the state of the protrusions and retractors of the housing in Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram illustrating the angle θ1 formed by the step that the protrusion of the frame may have and the axis O of the ventilation component.

[0016] Figure 4A This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the ventilation structure of Embodiment 2.

[0017] Figure 4B This is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the ventilation structure of Embodiment 2.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a top view schematically showing the state of the protrusions and recesses of the frame in Embodiment 2.

[0019] Figure 6A This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the ventilation structure of Embodiment 3.

[0020] Figure 6B This is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the ventilation structure of Embodiment 3.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the ventilation structure of Embodiment 4.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the evaluation method for the retention capacity of ventilated structures.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the housing of Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the housing of Embodiment 2.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the shell of the comparative example.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a graph representing the insertion load evaluated in the embodiments.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing an example of a conventional ventilation structure. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The first embodiment of the present invention has a ventilation structure comprising a housing and a ventilation component. The aforementioned housing has protrusions on its outer surface, which protrude in a cylindrical shape toward the edge of the vent that connects the internal space of the housing with the external space. The above-mentioned ventilation components include: Internal components, comprising elastic material, having an open tube structure; and External components have a closed-tube structure. The aforementioned internal component is fixed to the aforementioned external component in a manner in which the internal component is inserted inside the aforementioned external component, and an air passage is ensured between the aforementioned internal component and the aforementioned external component. The aforementioned ventilation component is fixed to the housing by inserting the aforementioned protrusion of the housing into the interior of the internal component through an opening on one side of the internal component, with the inner peripheral surface of the internal component abutting against the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned protrusion. Thus, in the aforementioned ventilation structure, gas can circulate between the aforementioned internal space and the aforementioned external space via the aforementioned ventilation path. The aforementioned protrusion has a recessed portion or a roughened surface. The aforementioned rear portion is located at a position that separates from the front end of the aforementioned protrusion. The inner circumferential surface of the aforementioned internal component contacts the aforementioned rough surface or deforms at the aforementioned rear portion in a direction approaching the axis of the aforementioned ventilation component.

[0029] In a second aspect of the invention, for example, based on the ventilation structure of the first aspect, the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion has a step in the direction of the axis, and the recessed portion extends from the step toward the outer surface of the housing.

[0030] In a third aspect of the invention, for example, based on the ventilation structure of the first or second aspect, when viewed along the aforementioned axis, the aforementioned rear portion is formed throughout the entire circumferential region of the aforementioned outer peripheral surface.

[0031] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, for example, based on the ventilation structure of the first or second aspect, when viewed in the direction along the aforementioned axis, the aforementioned recess is formed in a portion of the circumferential part of the aforementioned outer peripheral surface.

[0032] In a fifth aspect of the invention, for example, based on the ventilation structure of the first or second aspect, the aforementioned retracted portion is formed by a spiral groove formed on the aforementioned outer peripheral surface that advances in the direction along the aforementioned axis.

[0033] In the sixth aspect of the present invention, for example, based on the ventilation structure of any of the fifth aspects of the first aspect, when expressed as the hardness of the above-mentioned elastic material by the type A hardness tester measured in accordance with JISK6253-3:2012, the hardness is A75 or higher.

[0034] In the seventh aspect of the present invention, for example, based on the ventilation structure of any of the first to sixth aspects, the ratio of the height to the inner diameter of the aforementioned internal component is 1.0 or less.

[0035] In the eighth aspect of the present invention, for example, based on the ventilation structure of any of the first to seventh aspects, the ventilation component further includes a ventilation membrane that covers the opening on the other side of the internal component.

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the following description is merely illustrative. The ventilation structure of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments shown below.

[0037] (Implementation Method 1)

[0038] The ventilation structure 1 (1A) of Embodiment 1 is in Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown in [the image]. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The image shows the ventilation component 3 and the portion of the housing 2 where the ventilation component 3 is fixed, as well as its vicinity. Figure 1B This is an exploded perspective view showing the housing 2 separated from the ventilator 3 along the axis O of the ventilator 3. (See image below.) Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the ventilation structure 1A includes a housing 2 and a ventilation component 3 with a protrusion 23 fixed to the housing 2.

[0039] The housing 2 has a cylindrical protrusion 23 that extends from the outer surface 24 toward the edge 22 of the vent 21 that connects the internal space 11 of the housing 2 with the external space 12. Inside the protrusion 23 is a vent passage 4B extending in the direction of the protrusion. Gas can flow between the internal space 11 and the vent 21 via the vent passage 4B.

[0040] The ventilator 3 includes an inner member 31 and an outer member 32. The inner member 31 comprises an elastic material. Furthermore, the inner member 31 has an open tube structure. In other words, the inner member 31 is a tubular member with openings 33 and 34 at both ends. Additionally, the inner member 31 has a protrusion 37. The protrusion 37 protrudes outward from the outer periphery of the open tube structure. In other words, the protrusion 37 protrudes outward in a direction perpendicular to the axis O. The protrusion 37 is formed on the entire outer periphery of the open tube structure of the inner member 31. In other words, the protrusion 37 is formed in a ring shape. However, the shape of the protrusion 37 is not limited to... Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe shape shown is indicated. The outer member 32 has a closed tube structure. In other words, the outer member 32 is a bottomed tubular member with an opening only at one end. The inner member 31 is fixed to the outer member 32 in a state where the inner member 31 is inserted inside the outer member 32 and a ventilation passage 4A is ensured between the inner member 31 and the outer member 32. The outer member 32 has a hook portion 38 on the inner circumferential surface of the closed tube structure. The hook portion 38 hooks onto the protrusion 37. The hook portion 38 hooks onto the protrusion 37, which helps to prevent the outer member 32 from falling off the inner member 31. In addition, the outer member 32 has a plurality of through holes 36 provided across the side wall 39 and bottom wall 40 of the outer member 32. Each through hole 36 passes through the side wall 39 and bottom wall 40 to connect the outer circumferential surface and the inner circumferential surface of the outer member 32. However, the shape and position of the through holes 36 are not limited to... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The shape and position are shown. Each through hole 36 is connected to the ventilation passage 4A, allowing gas to flow between the external space 12 and the ventilation passage 4A.

[0041] The venting component 3 is fixed to the housing 2 by inserting the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 into the interior of the inner component 31 through the opening 33 on one side, with the inner peripheral surface 35 of the inner component 31 abutting against the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23. In the venting structure 1A, gas can flow between the internal space 11 and the external space 12 via the venting passage 4A. More specifically, when viewed from the internal space 11 side, gas 51 can pass sequentially through the venting passage 4B, the venting passage 4A, and the through hole 36. In addition, the venting component 3 of Embodiment 1 also includes a venting membrane 6 covering the opening 34 on the other side of the inner component 31. Gas 51 flowing between the internal space 11 and the external space 12 passes through the venting membrane 6. When viewed along the axis O, the bottom wall 40 of the outer component 32 covers the vent 21 of the housing 2 and the opening 34 on the other side of the inner component 31. In addition, the bottom wall 40 is covered by the venting membrane 6.

[0042] In the ventilation structure 1A, the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 has a recessed portion 5. The recessed portion 5 is located away from the front end 26 of the protrusion 23. Compared to the portion A of the outer peripheral surface 25 adjacent to the recessed portion 5 and located away from the outer surface 24 of the housing 2, the recessed portion 5 is recessed in a direction closer to the axis O. The inner peripheral surface 35 of the internal member 31 deforms at the recessed portion 5 in a direction closer to the axis O. The deformed inner peripheral surface 35 contacts the recessed portion 5. However, the deformed inner peripheral surface 35 may not contact the recessed portion 5. The deformation is usually elastic. The above-mentioned deformation of the inner peripheral surface 35 helps to prevent the ventilation member 3 from falling off the protrusion 23.

[0043] In Embodiment 1, the recessed portion 5 extends from the step 27 on the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 in the direction of the axis O toward the outer surface 24 of the housing 2. Compared to the outer peripheral surface 25 located adjacent to the recessed portion 5 across the step 27, the recessed portion 5 is recessed in a direction closer to the axis O. Furthermore, when viewed along the axis O, the recessed portion 5 of Embodiment 1 is formed throughout the entire circumferential region of the outer peripheral surface 25 (see reference). Figure 2 ; Figure 2 This is a top view of the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 observed only along the axis O; however, for ease of understanding, the cone-shaped surface near the front end 26 of the protrusion 23 is omitted. The recess 5, formed throughout the entire circumferential region, is particularly suitable for preventing the venting component 3 from detaching from the protrusion 23. Furthermore, according to the inventors' research, this recess 5 is also particularly suitable for suppressing the force required to fix the venting component 3 to the protrusion 23 (hereinafter referred to as "insertion load"). In other words, the venting structure 1A easily fixes the venting component 3 to the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 and is particularly suitable for preventing the venting component 3 from detaching from the protrusion 23.

[0044] The degree of retraction of the retracted portion 5 is represented by the distance D1 between the retracted portion 5 and part A (the portion of the outer peripheral surface 25 adjacent to the retracted portion 5 and located on the side away from the outer surface 24 of the housing 2) when viewed in the direction along the axis O. For example, it is 0.01~2.0 mm, but can also be 0.05~1.5 mm, 0.1~1.3 mm, 0.15~1.1 mm, 0.2~1.0 mm, 0.3~0.9 mm, or even 0.4~0.8 mm. The distance D1 can be determined as the maximum value of the distance between P and Q when the venting structure 1A is viewed in the direction along the axis O, with the intersection point of the imaginary line segment L extending from the axis O and the retracted portion 5 set as P, and the intersection point with part A set as Q, and the line segment L is rotated one revolution circumferentially along the outer peripheral surface 25 (refer to...). Figure 2 ).

[0045] When the protrusion 23 has a step 27, when the protrusion 23 is viewed along a direction orthogonal to the axis O, the angle θ1 formed by the direction D2 of the rear portion 5 extending toward the front end 26 and the step 27 (refer to) Figure 3 For example, it can be 30~150 degrees, or 45~135 degrees, 60~120 degrees, 75~110 degrees, or even 80~105 degrees. Angle θ1 can be an obtuse angle or 90 degrees.

[0046] The height H1 of the protrusion 23 is, for example, 3.0 to 12.0 mm. The upper limit of height H1 can be less than 10.0 mm, less than 9.0 mm, less than 8.0 mm, less than 7.0 mm, less than 6.0 mm, less than 5.0 mm, or even less than 4.0 mm. The lower limit of height H1 can be more than 3.5 mm, more than 4.0 mm, more than 4.5 mm, or even more than 5.0 mm. Height H1 can also be less than 9.0 mm. According to the inventors' research, when height H1 is less than 9.0 mm, the venting component 3 is prone to detachment. Therefore, in the above case, it is particularly advantageous for the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 to have a recessed portion 5. Height H1 can be determined as the maximum distance along the axis O between the outer surface 24 of the housing 2 and the front end 26 of the protrusion 23.

[0047] The minimum length L1 of the portion of the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 that abuts against the inner peripheral surface 35 of the internal member 31, which is located above the rear portion 5 and furthest from the axis O, when viewed along the direction of axis O, is, for example, 0.3 mm or more. A length L1 of 0.3 mm or more helps ensure the sealing between the protrusion 23 and the internal member 31; in other words, it helps ensure the sealing between the housing 2 and the venting component 3. The upper limit of the length L1 is, for example, 10.0 mm or less, and can be 8.0 mm or less, 5.0 mm or less, 3.0 mm or less, 2.0 mm or less, 1.5 mm or less, 1.2 mm or less, 1.0 mm or less, or even 0.8 mm or less. Furthermore, in this specification, "above" refers to the direction in which axis O extends from the outer surface 24 side of the housing 2 towards the front end 26 side of the protrusion 23.

[0048] Regarding protrusion 23, the ratio of length L1 to height H1, L1 / H1, is, for example, 0.05~0.8, and can be 0.07~0.5, 0.09~0.3, or even 0.1~0.2.

[0049] The components of the ventilation structure 1A are described in more detail.

[0050] Examples of materials constituting the shell 2 include resins, metals, and composites thereof. The same applies to materials constituting the protrusion 23. However, the materials are not limited to the examples described above. The materials constituting the parts of the shell 2 other than the protrusion 23 may be the same as or different from the materials constituting the protrusion 23. The modulus of elasticity of the material constituting the protrusion 23 is typically greater than that of the elastic material contained in the internal member 31.

[0051] The shell 2, protrusion 23, and recess 5 can be formed using known methods. Multiple methods can also be combined, and the forming method is not limited. For example, the shell 2 containing metal can also be formed by die casting. According to die casting, a shell 2 with protrusion 23 having a recess 5 can also be formed. The recess 5 can also be formed by post-processing a protrusion that does not have a recess 5. Examples of post-processing include cutting, milling, and CNC machining.

[0052] Examples of housing 2 include housings for automotive electrical components such as lights, converters, transducers, ECUs (Electronic Control Units), battery packs, radars, and cameras. Housing 2 can also be housings for various electronic devices used in homes, medical settings, offices, etc. Housing 2 is not limited to the examples mentioned above.

[0053] The inner diameter R1 of the internal component 31 is, for example, 5.0~10.0 mm, and can be 6.0~9.0 mm, 7.0~8.0 mm, 7.0~7.5 mm, 7.25~7.6 mm, 7.25~7.45 mm, or even 7.3~7.45 mm. The inner diameter R1 can be determined as the inner diameter of the portion of the internal component 31 that contacts the portion with the largest outer diameter of the protrusion 23 when viewed along the axis O. However, the inner diameter R1 is determined with the venting component 3 fixed to the protrusion 23 in a manner closest to the outer surface 24 of the housing 2. In this case, as... Figure 1A As shown, it can also be in a state where the internal component 31 is in contact with the outer surface 24.

[0054] The height H2 of the internal component 31 is, for example, 4.0 to 13.0 mm. The lower limit of height H2 can be 4.2 mm or more, 4.5 mm or more, 4.8 mm or more, 5.0 mm or more, 7.0 mm or more, 8.0 mm or more, 9.0 mm or more, or even 10.0 mm or more. The upper limit of height H2 can be less than 12.0 mm, less than 10.0 mm, less than 8.0 mm, less than 6.0 mm, less than 5.8 mm, less than 5.5 mm, less than 5.3 mm, less than 5.0 mm, or even less than 4.8 mm. Height H2 can be 4.0 to 5.0 mm, or 4.2 to 4.8 mm. Height H2 can be determined as the maximum length of the internal component 31 along the axis O. Height H2 typically corresponds to the distance along the axis O between the opening 33 on one side and the opening 34 on the other side of the internal component 31 with the open tube structure.

[0055] The ratio H2 / R1 of the height H2 of the internal component 31 is, for example, 1.7 or less, and may also be 1.5 or less, 1.2 or less, 1.0 or less, 0.9 or less, 0.8 or less, or even 0.7 or less. The lower limit of the ratio H2 / R1 is, for example, 0.4 or more. According to the inventors' research, when the ratio H2 / R1 is 1.0 or less, or even 0.9 or less, the venting component 3 is prone to detachment. Therefore, in the above case, it is particularly advantageous for the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 to have a recessed portion 5.

[0056] Examples of elastic materials that can be included in the internal component 31 are elastomers (elastic resins). Elastomers can also be rubber. Examples of elastomers include nitrile rubber (NBR), ethylene propylene rubber (EPDM), silicone rubber, fluororubber, acrylic rubber, hydrogenated rubber, or various thermoplastic elastomers. Examples of thermoplastic elastomers are polyester elastomers (TPEE; also known as TPC), polystyrene elastomers (TPS), polyolefin elastomers (TPO), and polyamide elastomers (TPAE). TPEE is also an elastic material. TPEE offers a particularly excellent balance between heat resistance and mechanical properties when considered for use as the internal component 31.

[0057] When expressed using the hardness of a Type D durometer as measured according to Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) K6253-3:2012, the elastic material is typically a material with a hardness of D70 or less. When expressed using the hardness of a Type A durometer as measured according to JIS K6253-3:2012, the hardness of the elastic material can be A55 or higher, A65 or higher, or even A75 or higher. Furthermore, when expressed using the hardness of a Type D durometer, the hardness of the elastic material can be D25 or higher, D30 or higher, D35 or higher, D40 or higher, or even D45 or higher. Having the hardness of the elastic material contained in the internal component 31 in the range above the aforementioned lower limit increases the frictional force between the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 and the inner peripheral surface 35 of the internal component 31, helping to prevent the venting component 3 from detaching from the protrusion 23. On the other hand, if the hardness of the elastic material increases, the force required to fix the venting component 3 relative to the protrusion 23 tends to increase. However, the recess 5 is also suitable for suppressing the insertion load when the venting component 3 is fixed to the protrusion 23. In other words, the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 has a particularly large advantage with the recess 5 when the hardness of the elastic material contained in the internal component 31 is above the aforementioned lower limit value.

[0058] When expressed as the Vicat softening temperature (VST) measured according to the A50 method of JISK 7206:2016, the heat resistance of the elastic material is, for example, 70°C or higher. The upper limit of the VST is, for example, 210°C or lower. Furthermore, the VST can be determined according to JISK 7206:2016.

[0059] The internal component 31 may also contain materials other than elastic materials. Examples of such materials include resins other than elastic materials, pigments such as carbon black and titanium dioxide, reinforcing fillers such as glass particles and glass fibers, and additives such as waterproofing agents. However, the materials that the internal component 31 can contain are not limited to the examples mentioned above.

[0060] The internal component 31 is not limited to the above example as long as it contains an elastic material, has an open tube structure, can be fixed to the external component 32 in a state where it is inserted into the external component 32 and a ventilation passage 4A is ensured between the internal component 32 and the external component 32, and can be fixed to the housing 2 in a state where the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 is inserted into the internal component from the opening 33 on one side and the inner peripheral surface 35 abuts against the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23, and gas can flow between the internal space 11 and the external space 12 through the ventilation passage 4A. For example, the internal component structure disclosed in Patent Document 1 may also be used.

[0061] Examples of materials that can be included in the external component 32 are resins. Examples of resins include thermoplastic resins and the elastomers described above. Examples of thermoplastic resins include polyamides (PA) such as nylon, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), and polyphenylene ether (PPE). The materials included in the external component 32 may be the same as or different from the materials included in the internal component 31. The external component 32 may include pigments such as carbon black and titanium dioxide, reinforcing fillers such as glass particles and glass fibers, and additives such as waterproofing agents. However, the materials that can be included in the external component 32 are not limited to the examples described above.

[0062] The external member 32 is not limited to the above example as long as it has a closed tube structure, which allows the internal member 31 to be inserted inside while the ventilation passage 4A is ensured between the internal member 31 and the external member 32, and allows the flow of gas between the internal space 11 and the external space 12 via the ventilation passage 4A. For example, it may also have the structure of the external member disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0063] The ventilation membrane 6 is not a necessary component, but its configuration along the gas flow path 51 between the external space 12 and the internal space 11 is particularly suitable for preventing the intrusion of foreign objects from the external space 12 into the internal space 11. Examples of foreign objects are liquids such as water or oil, and dust.

[0064] Examples of breathable membrane 6 include woven fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, meshes, and porous membranes. Breathable membrane 6 may also have a laminated structure of two or more membranes. Breathable membrane 6 may comprise a porous membrane and at least one layer selected from the group consisting of woven fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, and meshes. Examples of materials constituting breathable membrane 6 are organic polymers. Examples of organic polymers include fluoropolymers, polyolefins, polyesters, polyamides, and ethylene vinyl acetate. Examples of fluoropolymers include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polychlorotrifluoroethylene, tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymers, and tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene copolymers. Examples of polyolefins include homopolymers and copolymers of ethylene, propylene, and 4-methylpentene-1,1-butene. Examples of polyamides include nylon and aromatic polyamides. Breathable membrane 6 may also include nanofibers. Examples of nanofibers include nanofibers containing various resins such as polyacrylonitrile, nylon, and polylactic acid. Porous membranes can be manufactured by known stretching or extraction methods.

[0065] The breathable membrane 6 can also include a PTFE porous membrane. The PTFE porous membrane has a particularly excellent balance between air permeability per unit area and the function of inhibiting foreign matter intrusion. The breathable membrane 6 can also have a laminated structure of PTFE porous membrane and breathable support materials such as non-woven fabric.

[0066] The thickness of the ventilated membrane 6 is, for example, 1 μm or more and 5 mm or less. When expressed as Grylls permeability measured according to Method B (Grylls method) of permeability determination as specified in JIS L1096:2020, the permeability of the ventilated membrane 6 is, for example, 0.1 to 300 seconds / 100 mL. However, the thickness and permeability of the ventilated membrane 6 are not limited to the above ranges.

[0067] The ventilated membrane 6 can also be treated with a liquid-repellent finish. Furthermore, the liquid-repellent finish can be applied to at least a portion of the surfaces of the internal component 31 and / or the external component 32. The liquid-repellent finish on the ventilated membrane 6, the internal component 31, and the external component 32 can be performed using known methods.

[0068] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The venting membrane 6 is joined to the end face of the internal component 31 by covering the opening 34 on the other side of the internal component 31. The joining of the venting membrane 6 can be achieved using various welding methods such as thermal welding, ultrasonic welding, and laser welding. Alternatively, the joining can be achieved using adhesives, bonding agents, double-sided adhesive tape, etc. The internal component 31 with the joined venting membrane 6 can also be formed by insert molding.

[0069] The outer diameter R2 of the venting component 3 is, for example, 10.0~20.0 mm, and can be 11.0~19.0 mm, 12.0~18.0 mm, 13.0~17.0 mm, 14.0~16.0 mm, 14.5~15.5 mm, or even 14.7~15.1 mm. The outer diameter R2 can be determined as the maximum width when observing the cross-section of the venting component 3 along the direction of axis O. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The outer diameter R2 of the venting component 3 shown is in Figure 1A The maximum distance between the opposing sidewalls 39 in the external member 32 shown. However, the outer diameter R2 is determined with the venting member 3 fixed to the protrusion 23 in a manner that is closest to the outer surface 24 of the housing 2.

[0070] The height H3 of the venting component 3 is, for example, 5.0~15.0 mm, and can be 5.2~13.0 mm, 5.5~10.0 mm, 5.7~9.0 mm, 5.5~8.0 mm, 5.7~7.5 mm, 6.0~7.0 mm, or even 6.2~6.8 mm. The height H3 can be determined as the maximum distance between the lower and upper ends of the venting component 3 when viewed along the axis O. However, the height H3 is determined with the venting component 3 fixed to the protrusion 23 in a manner that is closest to the outer surface 24 of the housing 2. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The lower end and upper end of the ventilation component 3 shown are respectively located at the opening 33 on one side of the inner component 31 and the bottom wall 40 of the outer component 32.

[0071] The ratio of the height H3 of the ventilation component 3 to its outer diameter R2, H3 / R2, is, for example, 1.0 to 4.0, and can be 1.5 to 3.5, 1.7 to 3.0, 1.9 to 2.7, 2.0 to 2.5, or even 2.15 to 2.45.

[0072] The ventilation component 3 is not limited to the above example, as long as it can be inserted into the interior of the inner member 31 through the opening 33 on one side of the inner member 31 with the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 and the inner peripheral surface 35 of the inner member 31 abutting against the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23, and can allow circulation between the internal space 11 and the external space 12 through the ventilation passage 4A while fixed to the protrusion 23. For example, it can be a ventilation component disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-143524 or International Publication No. 2020 / 075848.

[0073] (Implementation Method 2)

[0074] The ventilation structure 1 (1B) of Embodiment 2 is in Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown in [the image]. Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe image shows the ventilation component 3 and the portion of the housing 2 where the ventilation component 3 is fixed, as well as its vicinity. Figure 4B This is an exploded perspective view showing the housing 2 and the venting component 3 separated along axis O. The venting structure 1B is identical to the venting structure 1A of Embodiment 1, except for the shape of the recessed portion 5 of the protrusion 23 on the outer peripheral surface 25 of the housing 2. Descriptions repeated in Embodiment 1 are omitted.

[0075] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The recessed portion 5 extends from the step 27 on the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 in the direction of the axis O toward the outer surface 24 of the housing 2. Compared to portion A of the outer peripheral surface 25 located adjacent to the recessed portion 5 across the step 27, the recessed portion 5 is recessed toward the axis O. Furthermore, Figure 4A and Figure 4B When viewed along the axis O, the rear portion 5 is formed in a portion of the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 25 (see reference). Figure 5 ; Figure 5 This is a top view of the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 observed only along the direction of axis O; however, for ease of understanding, the illustration of the conical surface near the front end 26 of the protrusion 23 is omitted. According to the inventors' research, the retractable portion 5 of embodiment 2 is also suitable for suppressing the force required to fix the venting component 3 to the protrusion 23.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, the step 27 of Embodiment 2 extends in a straight line when viewed along the axis O. Furthermore, when viewed along the axis O, the step 27 connects two points S and T located on the circumference of the outer peripheral surface 25. The angle θ2, which is ∠SOT, is, for example, 10 to 120 degrees, but can also be 30 to 100 degrees, 45 to 90 degrees, 50 to 80 degrees, or 55 to 70 degrees. However, the step 27 is not limited to the above examples; for example, it can also extend in a curved or serrated shape.

[0077] The degree to which the retracting part 5 retracts from the outer peripheral surface 25 can be the same as in Embodiment 1. The degree of retraction can be expressed as a distance D1.

[0078] (Implementation Method 3)

[0079] The ventilation structure 1 (1C) of embodiment 3 is in Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown in [the image]. Figure 6A and Figure 6B The image shows the ventilation component 3 and the portion of the housing 2 where the ventilation component 3 is fixed, as well as its vicinity. Figure 6BThis is an exploded perspective view showing the housing 2 and the venting component 3 separated along axis O. The venting structure 1C is identical to the venting structure 1A of Embodiment 1, except for the shape of the recessed portion 5 of the protrusion 23 on the outer peripheral surface 25 of the housing 2. Repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0080] Figure 6A and Figure 6B The retractable portion 5 is formed by a spiral groove 8 that advances in the direction along the axis O and is formed on the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23. According to the inventors' research, the retractable portion 5 of embodiment 3 is also suitable for suppressing the force required to fix the venting component 3 to the protrusion 23.

[0081] The degree of retraction of the retracting part 5 can be the same as in Embodiment 1. The degree of retraction can be constant or variable in the length direction of the groove 8. In addition, the spacing (pitch) between adjacent grooves 8 in the direction along the axis O can be constant or variable in the length direction of the groove 8.

[0082] (Implementation Method 4)

[0083] The ventilation structure 1 (1D) of embodiment 5 is in Figure 7 As shown in the figure. The ventilation structure 1D is the same as the ventilation structure 1A of Embodiment 1, except that the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 has a rough surface 7 instead of the rear portion 5 and the inner peripheral surface 35 of the internal member 31 contacts the rough surface 7. The descriptions that are repeated between Embodiment 1 are omitted.

[0084] The roughened surface 7 is the roughened area within the outer peripheral surface 25. The surface roughness of the roughened surface 7 is typically greater than that of the outer surface 24 of the housing 2. Contact between the inner peripheral surface 35 and the roughened surface 7 helps to prevent the venting component 3 from detaching from the protrusion 23. The roughening treatment of the outer peripheral surface 25 can be performed using known methods such as sandblasting or oxidation. The surface roughness of the roughened surface 7 can also be evaluated using a non-contact evaluation device, such as a magnifying observation device like a confocal laser microscope. The maximum height of the roughened surface 7 evaluated using a magnifying observation device can, for example, be 6.3 μm or more.

[0085] The rough surface 7 can be formed entirely on the outer peripheral surface 25 or on a portion thereof. Furthermore, when viewed along the axis O, the rough surface 7 can be formed over the entire circumferential region of the outer peripheral surface 25 or on a portion thereof. Figure 7 The rough surface 7 is formed throughout the entire circumferential region of the outer peripheral surface 25; in other words, it is annular. However, the shape of the rough surface 7 is not limited to the example described above.

[0086] In addition to the above-described ventilation structure, the present invention can have various modifications. For example, the recessed portion 5 and the roughened portion 7 can be combined; in other words, the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 can also have both the recessed portion 5 and the roughened portion 7. At least a portion of the surface of the recessed portion 5 can also be roughened.

[0087] [Example]

[0088] The present invention will now be described in more detail through examples. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific examples shown below.

[0089] In this embodiment, the holding force and insertion load of the ventilation structure were evaluated. The holding force is an indicator of the degree to which the ventilation component 3 is prevented from detaching from the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 in the ventilation structure. The insertion load is an indicator of the force required to secure the ventilation component 3 to the protrusion 23 of the housing 2 in the ventilation structure. The evaluation methods for the holding force and insertion load are as follows.

[0090] [Persistence]

[0091] Prepare with Figure 1A and Figure 1B The ventilation component 3 shown is used for evaluation. The internal component 31 is made of TPEE, with an inner diameter R1 of 7.35 mm and a height H2 of 4.5 mm. Next, the ventilation component 3 is pressed into and fixed by hand onto the protrusion 23 of the separately prepared housing 2. The ventilation component 3 is fixed by inserting it into the protrusion 23 through the opening 33 on one side of the internal component 31, with the end of the internal component 31 on the side of the opening 33 contacting the outer surface 24 of the housing 2. Next, the housing 2 is mounted on the worktable of a universal tensile testing machine (manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation), and the lower end 41 of the external component 32 in the ventilation component 3 is connected to the chuck of the testing machine (see reference). Figure 8 ; Figure 8 (Ref. 61 in the attached drawing refers to the chuck of the testing machine.) A test is conducted in which the venting component 3 is pulled out from the protrusion 23 at a certain speed (200 mm / min). The direction of pulling out is defined as the extension direction of the axis O of the venting component 3. The maximum load measured from the start of pulling out to the end is determined as the holding force of the venting structure.

[0092] [Inserted Load]

[0093] Prepare a venting component 3, identical to the venting component used in the evaluation of holding force. Next, install the prepared housing 2 on the worktable of the universal tensile testing machine (manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation). The housing 2 is installed with the protrusion 23 facing upwards. Next, install the prepared venting component 3 into the chuck of the testing machine and lower it at a certain speed (50 mm / min), inserting it into the protrusion 23 through an opening 33 of the internal member 31 and fixing it to the protrusion 23. The load measured at insertion is equivalent to the insertion load. The direction of descent is set to the extension direction of the axis O of the venting component 3. The venting component 3 descends at a certain speed until its end on the opening 33 side of the internal member 31 contacts the outer surface 24 of the housing 2.

[0094] (Example 1)

[0095] Prepare with Figure 9 The shell 2 of the protrusion 23 is shown. The prepared shell 2 corresponds to that of Embodiment 1. The shell 2 is made of aluminum and is integrally formed by die casting, including the protrusion 23 and the recess 5. The maximum outer diameter of the protrusion 23 is 8.2 mm, the height is 4 mm, the length L1 of the outer peripheral surface 25 of the protrusion 23 is 0.5 mm, the distance from the outer surface 24 of the shell 2 to the step 27 along the axis O is 2.5 mm, and the recess amount of the recess 5 is represented by D1 as 0.2 mm. In addition, a tapered shape with a diameter of 1.0 mm is machined at the connection between the front end 26 of the protrusion 23 and the outer peripheral surface 25.

[0096] (Example 2)

[0097] Prepare with Figure 10 The shell 2 of the protrusion 23 is shown. The prepared shell 2 corresponds to Embodiment 2. The shell 2 is made of aluminum and is formed by die casting. The recess 5 is formed by machining the protrusion formed by die casting. The maximum outer diameter of the protrusion 23 is 8.2 mm, the height is 4 mm, the length L1 of the protrusion 23 on the outer peripheral surface 25 is 0.5 mm, the distance from the outer surface 24 of the shell 2 to the step 27 along the axis O is 2.5 mm, the recess amount of the recess 5 is represented by D1 as 0.4 mm, and the angle θ2 of the recess 5 is 70 degrees. In addition, a tapered shape with a diameter of 1.0 mm is machined on the connection portion between the front end 26 of the protrusion 23 and the outer peripheral surface 25.

[0098] (Comparative example)

[0099] Prepare with Figure 11 The shell with the protrusion shown. The protrusion of the prepared shell is the same as the protrusion 23 of the shell 2 in Embodiment 1, except that the recessed portion 5 is not formed.

[0100] The evaluation results of holding force and insertion load for the embodiments and comparative examples are shown in Table 1 and Table 2, respectively. Figure 12As shown in the figure. Furthermore, the insertion load was evaluated only for Example 1 and the comparative example. Additionally, Figure 12 The insertion distance shown corresponds to the insertion depth of the protrusion 23 relative to the internal member 31, with the position where the internal member 31 contacts the front end 26 of the protrusion 23 as a reference.

[0101] [Table 1]

[0102] As shown in Table 1, the holding power of Examples 1 and 2 is higher than that of the Comparative Example. Additionally, as... Figure 12 As shown, the insertion load of Example 1 was suppressed compared to the comparative example, and remained approximately constant from the moment the insertion distance reached 2 mm, suppressing further increases.

Claims

1. A breather structure provided with a housing and a breather member, the housing has a protrusion on an outer surface, the protrusion protruding in a cylindrical shape toward an edge of a breather port that communicates an inner space of the housing with an outer space, the breather member is provided with: an inner member containing an elastic material, having an open pipe structure; and an outer member having a closed pipe structure, the inner member is fixed to the outer member in a state where the inner member is inserted into the inner portion of the outer member and a breather passage is ensured between the inner member and the outer member, the breather member is fixed to the housing in a state where the protrusion of the housing is inserted into the inner portion of the inner member from an opening of one side of the inner member and an inner peripheral surface of the inner member abuts against an outer peripheral surface of the protrusion, so that in the breather structure, a gas can flow between the inner space and the outer space via the breather passage, the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion has a recessed portion or a roughened surface portion that is roughened, the recessed portion is located at a position apart from a front end of the protrusion, the inner peripheral surface of the inner member contacts the roughened surface portion or is deformed in a direction approaching an axis of the breather member at the recessed portion.

2. The breather structure according to claim 1, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion has a step in a direction of the axis, the recessed portion extends from the step in a direction of the outer surface of the housing.

3. The breather structure according to claim 1, wherein the recessed portion is formed throughout an entire interval of a circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface when viewed in a direction along the axis.

4. The breather structure according to claim 1, wherein the recessed portion is formed in an interval of a part of the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface when viewed in a direction along the axis.

5. The breather structure according to claim 1, wherein the recessed portion is formed by a spiral-shaped groove formed in the outer peripheral surface that advances in a direction along the axis.

6. The breather structure according to claim 1, wherein a hardness of the elastic material, when expressed in terms of a type A durometer hardness measured in accordance with the provisions of JIS K6253-3:2012, is A75 or more.

7. The breather structure according to claim 1, wherein a ratio of a height to an inner diameter of the inner member is 1.0 or less.

8. The breather structure according to claim 1, wherein the breather member is further provided with a breather film that covers an opening of the other side of the inner member.

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