Valve seat mechanism, valve mechanism and breather valve

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a valve seat mechanism, a valve mechanism, and a breather valve capable of ascertaining the state between a valve body and a valve seat. A valve seat mechanism (1) according to the present disclosure is provided with: a valve seat (2) constituting a part of a flow path; and one or more detectors (61) that detect a predetermined variable to be detected in a detection direction, in which the valve seat (2) is formed with a valve seat end surface (2a) that closes the flow path due to the contact of the valve body, the valve seat (2) is formed with a detector installation space (42e) in which the detectors (61) are installed, and the detection direction is in a state in which the detectors (61) are installed in the detector installation space (42e). The valve seat end face (2a) is arranged towards the valve body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to valve seat mechanisms, valve mechanisms, and breather valves for on / off valves. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, a breathing valve was known to include: a positive pressure side valve seat having a discharge port for fluid inside the container; and a positive pressure side valve capable of opening and closing the discharge port according to the pressure inside the container (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-21652 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] For valve mechanisms consisting of a valve body and a valve seat, which are positioned in the flow path of a fluid, it is essential to manage the fluid flowing inside. This requires the valve mechanism to reliably seal the flow path and to verify the amount of fluid passing through it; to verify whether fluid is accidentally leaking between the valve body and the valve seat; and, assuming fluid has leaked from the valve mechanism, to verify the amount of leakage. Furthermore, to prevent fluid leakage from the valve mechanism due to unforeseen circumstances, or to minimize leakage, it is also necessary to be aware of the signs of accidental fluid leakage from the valve mechanism. In recent years, with increased awareness of the protection of plants, animals, and the environment, these requirements have become even more important when handling volatile and flammable fluids, or fluids harmful to humans and the environment. However, conventional valve mechanisms suffer from the problem that the state of the valve mechanism itself—the state between the valve body and the valve seat—which forms the basis for verification and control, is completely uncontrollable. The valve mechanism used in a breather valve for handling volatile fluids, as an example of a conventional valve mechanism, also fails to address this problem, which is a common issue with valve mechanisms.

[0008] This disclosure was made to solve the problems described above, and its purpose is to provide a valve seat mechanism, a valve mechanism, and a breather valve that can monitor the state between the valve body and the valve seat.

[0009] Solution to the problem

[0010] The valve seat mechanism disclosed herein includes: a valve seat forming part of a flow path; and one or more detectors for detecting a specified variable of the object to be detected in a detection direction, wherein the valve seat has a valve seat end face that closes the flow path due to contact with the valve body, the valve seat has a detector mounting space in which the detectors are mounted, and the detection direction is toward the valve body across the valve seat end face when the detectors are mounted in the detector mounting space.

[0011] The valve mechanism involved in this disclosure includes the valve seat mechanism of this disclosure and the valve body that closes the flow path.

[0012] The breather valves involved in this disclosure include the valve seat mechanism of this disclosure.

[0013] The effects of the invention

[0014] The valve seat mechanism, valve mechanism and breather valve disclosed herein are capable of controlling the state between the valve body and the valve seat. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the breathing valve of Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 Top view of the inlet section.

[0017] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 An enlarged view of the components included in the detection device.

[0018] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 A top view of the valve contact components.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a top view showing the inlet section of Embodiment 2. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the scope necessary for achieving the purposes of this disclosure is schematically indicated below, primarily focusing on the scope necessary for the description of relevant portions of this disclosure; omitted portions are considered well-known technical content.

[0021] Implementation method 1.

[0022] In Embodiment 1, the valve seat mechanism of this disclosure is described using the valve seat mechanism used in a breather valve. However, the valve seat mechanism of this disclosure is not limited to breather valves and can be appropriately applied to general valve mechanisms. Furthermore, the valve seat mechanism in Embodiment 2, which will be described later, is also the same. Figure 1This is a schematic diagram showing the breather valve 5 according to embodiment 1. The breather valve 5 is connected to the opening of the storage tank 4 via an upstream flange 4b. Figure 1 In the diagram, a portion of the breather valve 5 is represented by a cross-section in a plane containing the flow path axis.

[0023] Storage tank 4 stores flammable gases or liquids. Furthermore, storage tank 4 also contains fluids that have evaporated from the stored fluids. Flammable gases or liquids include, for example, fossil fuels and volatile gases. Storage tank 4 can be spherical, cylindrical, cuboid, or cubic in shape.

[0024] In this embodiment 1, the storage tank 4 has a shape in which the horizontal cross-sectional area gradually decreases towards the upper end. A mounting portion 4a is provided at the upper end of the storage tank 4. A through hole communicating with the interior of the storage tank 4 is formed in the mounting portion 4a. Therefore, the fluid inside the storage tank 4 is efficiently discharged through the mounting portion 4a.

[0025] The base of the breather valve 5 is mounted on the mounting portion 4a via the upstream flange 4b. In this embodiment 1, assuming the storage tank 4 is the upstream side, the breather valve 5 is located on the downstream side relative to the storage tank 4.

[0026] The breather valve 5 can discharge the fluid inside the storage tank 4 to the atmosphere according to the internal pressure of the storage tank 4, and allow the atmosphere, which is used as the suction fluid, to flow into the interior of the storage tank 4. That is, the breather valve 5 can regulate the pressure inside the storage tank 4.

[0027] In this embodiment 1, the storage tank 4 and the breather valve 5 are located outdoors and exposed to the atmosphere.

[0028] The breathing valve 5 includes a main section 10, an air inlet section 20, and an air outlet section 40. The main section 10 is a "T"-shaped piping component. The ends of the "T"-shaped piping component of the main section 10 are an inlet side opening end 10a that opens downward in the vertical direction, an outlet side opening end 10b that opens upward in the vertical direction, and an air inlet side opening end 10c that opens horizontally.

[0029] The main section 10 is configured with the inlet end 10a at the bottom and the outlet end 10b at the top. A main flow path 110 is provided, connecting the inlet end 10a to the outlet end 10b. The main section 10 is configured such that the axis of the main flow path 110 is vertical. The main flow path 110 extends toward the discharge section 40. The main flow path 110 extending toward the discharge section 40 will be described below.

[0030] A branch flow path 111 is defined as the flow path that branches off from the main flow path 110 and reaches the intake side opening end 10c. The axis of the branch flow path 111 is horizontal. The intake side opening end 10c of the main section 10 is connected to the intake section 20.

[0031] The intake section 20 has an intake section body 21 and an intake valve mechanism 22 disposed on the intake section body 21. The intake section body 21 is a tubular member with two open ends.

[0032] One end of the intake body 21 is a horizontally opening end 21a. At the other end of the intake body 21, an intake port 21b is formed that opens vertically downwards. The flow path connecting the horizontally opening end 21a and the intake port 21b is designated as the intake flow path 120. Here, the other end of the intake body 21 surrounding the intake port 21b is designated as an intake valve seat 21x.

[0033] The intake valve mechanism 22 includes an intake valve 23 serving as an on / off valve, an intake valve shaft 24 fixed to the intake valve 23, and an intake valve guide 25 disposed on the intake body 21. The intake valve 23 contacts the intake valve seat 21x surrounding the intake port 21b, thereby closing the intake port 21b. A gap is created between the intake valve 23 and the intake valve seat 21x, thereby opening the intake port 21b. That is, the intake valve 23 can open and close the intake airflow path 120.

[0034] The intake valve guide 25 supports the intake valve shaft 24 in a manner that allows it to move vertically. As a result, the intake valve 23 can move between an intake closed position and an intake open position due to the vertical movement of the intake valve shaft 24. The intake valve 23 is an open valve. The intake valve 23 can also move towards the intake closed position by falling along the intake valve guide 25 using its own weight and that of the intake valve shaft 24.

[0035] When the intake valve 23 is in the intake closed position, the intake valve 23 closes the intake port 21b. That is, the lower surface of the intake valve 23 contacts the intake valve seat 21x, so the intake air passage 120 is closed, and the connection between the intake air passage 120 and the outside of the breathing valve 5 is blocked.

[0036] When the intake valve 23 moves upward against its own weight from the intake closed position to the intake open position, a gap is created between the intake valve 23 and the intake valve seat 21x. That is, the intake air passage 120 is opened, and the intake air passage 120 becomes connected to the atmosphere outside the breathing valve 5.

[0037] The intake-side opening end 10c is connected to the connecting-side opening end 21a, and the intake-side opening end 10c of the main part 10 is connected to the intake part 20. Thus, the intake airflow path 120 inside the intake part body 21 is connected to the branch flow path 111 inside the main part 10. That is, the intake airflow path 120 extends horizontally from the branch flow path 111.

[0038] The outlet end 10b of the main part 10 is connected to the discharge part 40. The discharge part 40 has a discharge part body 41, a vent cover 47, a discharge valve mechanism 50 provided on the vent cover 47, a detection device 60, and a valve contact member 70.

[0039] The discharge section body 41 is composed of a tubular inlet section 42 and an atmospheric discharge section 43 that is provided to surround an open end of the inlet section 42. The discharge section body 41 is provided in a vertical orientation with the inlet section 42 as a conduit.

[0040] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 Top view of the inlet section 42. Figure 3 It means Figure 1 An enlarged view of the components included in the detection device 60. Figure 2 In this diagram, because the upper surface of the inlet portion 42 is shown, the valve contact member 70 is not shown. Based on... Figures 1-3 Let's continue with the explanation.

[0041] The downward-opening end of the inlet portion 42 is designated as the discharge portion inlet-side opening end 42a. The vertically upward-opening end of the inlet portion 42 is designated as the valve-side end 42b. The opening of the valve-side end 42b is designated as the valve-side opening 42c, and the end face of the valve-side end 42b is designated as the main body end face 42d. The discharge portion inlet-side opening end 42a is connected to the discharge portion outlet-side opening end 10b of the main portion 10.

[0042] A detector mounting space 42e is formed in the inlet section 42. The detector mounting space 42e is a space that opens into the main body end face 42d, and after opening into the main body end face 42d, it opens into the outer periphery of the inlet section 42 through the interior wall of the inlet section 42. A portion of the detection device 60 is disposed in the detector mounting space 42e.

[0043] The detection device 60 includes a detector 61 and wiring 62 that transmits signals from the detector 61 to a control device (not shown). The detector 61 is capable of detecting a predetermined variable of the object being detected. At this time, the detector 61 is capable of detecting the predetermined variable of the object being detected in the direction in which the detector 61 faces; this direction is defined as the detection direction of the detector 61. That is, the detection direction of the detector 61 is the direction in which the detector 61 can detect the predetermined variable of the object being detected. A detector 61 and a portion of the wiring 62 extending from the detector 61 are provided in the detector setting space 42e. The detector 61 is positioned such that the detection direction of the detector 61 extends from the detector setting space 42e toward the outside of the main body end face 42d. That is, the detector 61 can measure the predetermined variable of the object being detected outside the main body end face 42d on the valve side end 42b side of the inlet portion 42.

[0044] Wiring 62 is provided extending outward from the outer periphery of the inlet portion 42 through the detector setting space 42e. Wiring 62 is connected to a control device (not shown), which is capable of acquiring a predetermined variable detected by the detector 61.

[0045] A valve contact member 70 is provided at the valve side end 42b. Figure 4 It means Figure 1 A top view of the valve contact component 70. Based on Figures 1-4 Let's continue with the explanation.

[0046] The valve contact member 70 is an annular member. The cross-section of the valve contact member 70 along the radial direction of the annulus is "L"-shaped. That is, the valve contact member 70 is formed by bending an annular planar plate perpendicularly to the plane along its entire circumference on its inner periphery. The valve contact member 70 is formed to correspond to the shape of the body end face 42d.

[0047] The valve contact member 70 is provided on the inlet portion 42 such that it covers the main body end face 42d of the inlet portion 42 and a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the inlet portion 42 extending from the main body end face 42d. Here, the surface of the valve contact member 70 facing the discharge valve 53 is designated as the valve facing surface 70a. The discharge valve 53 will be described below.

[0048] The opening of the detector mounting space 42e formed in the main body end face 42d is closed because the valve contact member 70 is provided in the inlet portion 42. That is, the detector 61 is provided in the detector mounting space 42e covered by the valve contact member 70. In addition, the detection direction of the detector 61 is toward the discharge valve 53 across the valve facing surface 70a.

[0049] The valve contact member 70 is fixed to the inlet portion 42 by screws. A mounting portion for screw fixing is provided on the outer periphery of the valve contact member 70. However, in addition to screw fixing, well-known methods can also be used to fix the valve contact member 70 to the inlet portion 42. Ideally, the valve contact member 70 is made of a material that will not significantly reduce the detection capability of the detector 61. For example, the valve contact member 70 is made of stainless steel.

[0050] Ideally, the shape of the valve contact member 70 should be designed so as not to significantly reduce the detection capability of the detector 61. For example, a significant reduction in the detection capability of the detector 61 can be prevented by thinning the valve contact member 70. Furthermore, as... Figures 1-4 As shown, the inner peripheral surface of the inlet portion 42, where the detector mounting space 42e is formed, is further formed to protrude inward, and the wall thickness of the inlet portion 42 where the detector mounting space 42e is formed becomes thicker than the wall thickness of other portions. Furthermore, the valve contact member 70 is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end face 42d. However, this is not a limitation. For example, the wall thickness of the inlet portion 42 may be uniformly equal, that is, no inwardly protruding portion may be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the inlet portion 42, and the inner peripheral surface of the inlet portion 42 viewed from the axial direction may be circular. In this case, the valve contact member 70 is also formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end face 42d.

[0051] Here, the valve-side end 42b of the inlet portion 42 is designated as the valve seat body 3. That is, the valve seat body 3 is a cylindrical valve seat body that forms part of the flow path closed by the valve body, such that the valve-side end 42b of the inlet portion 42 forms part of the discharge flow path 140. In addition, the main body end face 42d of the inlet portion 42 is the main body end face of the valve seat body 3 facing the valve body, which is formed at the end of the flow path of the valve seat body 3.

[0052] Furthermore, the valve-side end 42b of the inlet portion 42, i.e., the valve seat body 3 and the valve contact member 70, is designated as the valve seat 2. Therefore, the valve seat 2 constitutes part of the flow path. Additionally, the valve seat 2 and the detection device 60 are designated as the valve seat mechanism 1. Furthermore, in this case, the valve-facing surface 70a of the valve contact member 70 is designated as the valve seat end face 2a.

[0053] That is, the valve seat end face 2a faces the lower surface of the valve body, i.e., the discharge valve 53, and is the part directly in contact with the discharge valve 53 when the discharge flow path 140 is closed. Furthermore, when a gap is formed between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat end face 2a, and the discharge flow path 140 is open, the fluid in the storage tank 4 is discharged through the gap between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat end face 2a. Additionally, with the detector 61 positioned in the detector placement space 42e, the detection direction is towards the valve body, i.e., the discharge valve 53, which is separated from the valve seat end face 2a.

[0054] return Figure 1 Continuing the explanation, the atmospheric discharge section 43 is formed to surround the valve-side end 42b of the inlet section 42. An opening is formed on the upper end side of the atmospheric discharge section 43. The upper end side of the atmospheric discharge section 43 is designated as the valve mechanism-side opening end 43b. Further down from the valve mechanism-side opening end 43b, i.e., in the main body of the atmospheric discharge section 43, a plurality of horizontally opening outlets 43a are formed.

[0055] A vent cover 47 is attached to the valve mechanism side opening end 43b. The vent cover 47 closes the opening of the valve mechanism side opening end 43b. A well-known structure can be used to attach the vent cover 47 to the valve mechanism side opening end 43b. A discharge valve mechanism 50 is provided at the vent cover 47.

[0056] The discharge valve mechanism 50 has a valve body, namely discharge valve 53, capable of closing the valve side opening 42c, a discharge valve shaft 54 ​​fixed to the discharge valve 53, and a discharge valve guide 55 provided on the vent cover 47.

[0057] With the vent cover 47 connected to the valve mechanism side opening end 43b, the discharge valve guide 55 extends vertically downward from the vent cover 47. The discharge valve guide 55 supports the discharge valve shaft 54 ​​in a manner that allows it to move vertically.

[0058] The discharge valve 53 can move between a closed discharge position and a closed discharge position due to the vertical movement of the discharge valve shaft 54. The discharge valve 53 is an open valve.

[0059] The discharge valve 53 can use its own weight and the discharge valve shaft 54 ​​to fall along the discharge valve guide 55, thereby moving towards the discharge closed position.

[0060] When the discharge valve 53 is in the discharge closed position, the discharge valve 53 closes the valve side opening 42c. Specifically, when the discharge valve 53 is in the discharge closed position, the surface of the discharge valve 53 is in contact with the valve facing surface 70a of the valve contact member 70. At this time, the surface of the discharge valve 53 is in continuous contact with the valve facing surface 70a around the valve side opening 42c.

[0061] In this embodiment 1, the surface of the discharge valve 53 that contacts the valve facing surface 70a is the lower surface of the discharge valve 53. That is, the detector 61 is configured such that its detection direction is toward the lower surface of the discharge valve 53, and it is able to detect a predetermined variable up to the discharge valve 53.

[0062] When the discharge valve 53 moves against its own weight from the discharge closed position to the discharge open position, a gap is generated between the discharge valve 53 and the valve side opening 42c.

[0063] In the discharge section 40, a discharge flow path 140 is formed that communicates with a plurality of discharge ports 43a through the valve side opening 42a of the discharge section inlet side opening 42c. When the discharge valve 53 is in the discharge closed position, the discharge flow path 140, which communicates with the main flow path 110 extending from the interior of the main section 10, is blocked.

[0064] When the discharge valve 53 moves from the discharge closed position to the discharge open position, a gap is generated between the discharge valve 53 and the valve side opening 42c, and the discharge flow path 140, which is connected to the main flow path 110 extending from the interior of the main part 10, becomes an unobstructed connected state.

[0065] Next, the operation of the breather valve 5 will be explained. The breather valve 5 operates based on the internal pressure of the storage tank 4.

[0066] First, when the internal pressure of storage tank 4 is at normal pressure, both the inlet valve 23 and the outlet valve 53 are closed. In this state, no air is introduced through the inlet valve 23 and no air is discharged through the outlet valve 53, thus maintaining the internal pressure inside storage tank 4.

[0067] Next, we will explain the situation where the internal pressure of storage tank 4 becomes lower than the normal pressure. In the air intake section 20, the internal pressure decreases, therefore, the air intake valve 23 is subjected to atmospheric pressure. Consequently, the air intake valve 23 moves from the air intake closed position to the air intake open position.

[0068] Specifically, the intake valve 23 is pushed up by atmospheric pressure, which opposes its own weight. In addition, the total weight of the intake valve 23 and the intake valve shaft 24 is set to the weight that rises due to atmospheric pressure after the internal pressure of the intake section 20 becomes below the normal pressure.

[0069] The intake valve 23 rises against its own weight, thereby opening the intake air passage 120, allowing air to enter the interior of the intake section 20 from the intake port 21b.

[0070] On the other hand, the internal pressure of the discharge section 40 decreases, therefore, the discharge valve 53 moves downward due to its own weight, and the discharge valve 53 remains in the discharge closed position. That is, the valve side opening 42c remains closed by the discharge valve 53.

[0071] As a result, air flows in through the air inlet 21b, and soon after, the internal pressure of the storage tank 4 increases. The air inlet valve 23 moves to the air inlet closed position due to its own weight, and closes the air inlet 21b. In this way, the internal pressure of the storage tank 4 reaches the pressure set based on the weight of the air inlet valve 23.

[0072] Next, the situation where the internal pressure of storage tank 4 is higher than the normal pressure will be explained. At this time, the internal pressure of air inlet 20 increases, and therefore, due to the internal pressure and weight of air inlet 20, air inlet valve 23 remains in the air inlet closed position. Therefore, air inlet 21b is closed.

[0073] In the discharge section 40, the internal pressure of the storage tank 4, the main section 10, and the air inlet section 20 increases, causing the discharge valve 53 to move from the discharge closed position to the discharge open position. Specifically, the discharge valve 53 is pushed up by the fluid inside the storage tank 4, rising against its own weight. Furthermore, the total weight of the discharge valve 53 and the discharge valve shaft 54 ​​is set as the weight that rises against its own weight after the internal pressure of the main section 10 becomes above the normal pressure.

[0074] Therefore, the fluid inside the storage tank 4 is discharged from the storage tank 4 through the main flow path 110, the valve-side opening 42c, and the discharge flow path 140. That is, when the internal pressure of the discharge section 40 becomes higher than the normal pressure, the discharge valve mechanism 50 keeps the discharge flow path 140, which is connected to the main flow path 110, connected without obstruction. As a result, the fluid discharged from the inside of the storage tank 4 can be discharged to the downstream side of the discharge valve mechanism 50 through the discharge flow path 140.

[0075] The fluid in the storage tank 4 is discharged from the discharge section 40. Shortly afterward, based on the internal pressure of the storage tank 4, the discharge valve 53 moves to the discharge closed position due to its own weight, closing the valve side opening 42c.

[0076] As a result, the internal pressure of storage tank 4 becomes the pressure based on the weight of the discharge valve 53. Thus, the breather valve 5 can maintain the pressure inside storage tank 4 at a constant pressure.

[0077] Furthermore, as described above, the fluid inside the storage tank 4 includes the fluid inside the storage tank 4 and the fluid formed by the evaporation and vaporization of that fluid. Therefore, the discharged fluid also includes the fluid inside the storage tank 4 and the fluid formed by the evaporation and vaporization of that fluid.

[0078] Next, the detection device 60 will be described. The detector 61 is capable of continuously detecting a predetermined variable up to the discharge valve 53. The predetermined variable detected by the detector 61 can be considered as the state of the discharge valve 53, or the state between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat 2. For example, the detector 61 is a distance sensor capable of measuring the distance up to the lower surface of the discharge valve 53. In this case, the variable that the detector 61 can detect up to the discharge valve 53 is the current distance up to the discharge valve 53, i.e., the current position of the discharge valve 53.

[0079] Based on the distance detected by detector 61 up to the lower surface of discharge valve 53, it is possible to infer whether discharge valve 53 is in the closed position or has moved from the closed position toward the open position. That is, it is possible to determine whether valve-side opening 42c is closed by discharge valve 53. Furthermore, this allows for the calculation of the opening degree of discharge valve 53, and further, the calculation of whether fluid flows between discharge valve 53 and valve seat 2, and the flow rate of that fluid.

[0080] Furthermore, by measuring the time the discharge valve 53 is not in the closed position, it is possible to infer an abnormality in the discharge valve mechanism 50 or an obstruction between the valve seat and the discharge valve 53. Additionally, based on the trend of the measured distance data, although an abnormality in the discharge valve mechanism 50 cannot be detected, signs of such an abnormality can be identified. Thus, the detection device 60 can be used to determine the state of the valve body, i.e., the discharge valve 53, and the valve seat 2. Furthermore, based on the trend of the measured distance data, it is possible to verify whether it is a sudden situation, whether an unexpected fluid leak occurred due to a sudden situation, and to verify the amount of leakage. Moreover, when a specific trend appears in the trend of the distance data measured by the detector 61, it can be determined that there is a sign of unexpected fluid leakage between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat 2.

[0081] Furthermore, the detector 61 is not limited to a distance sensor. For example, a vibration sensor facing the lower surface of the discharge valve 53 can also be used as the detector 61. This vibration sensor can detect vibrations that extend from the valve contact member 70 to the discharge valve 53. Even when a vibration sensor is used as the detector 61, the state between the valve body, i.e., the discharge valve 53, and the valve seat 2 can be determined using the detection device 60, just like with a distance sensor.

[0082] Alternatively, an acoustic sensor facing the lower surface of the discharge valve 53 can be used as the detector 61. This acoustic sensor can also be used to detect sound up to the discharge valve 53. The acoustic sensor can detect the sound of the discharge valve 53 operating, the sound of the valve seat 2 colliding with the discharge valve 53, and the sound of the fluid between the valve seat 2 and the discharge valve 53. Even when using an acoustic sensor as the detector 61, similar to a distance sensor, the state between the valve body, i.e., the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat 2, can be determined using the detection device 60. Furthermore, the directivity of the detector 61 in the detection direction varies depending on the sensor used as the detector 61. Therefore, when setting the detector 61, the detection direction can be appropriately set considering the directivity of the sensor used, thereby appropriately setting the installation posture of the detector 61.

[0083] The valve seat mechanism 1 in Embodiment 1 includes: a valve seat 2, which forms part of the flow path; and one or more detectors 61, which detect a predetermined variable of the object to be detected in the detection direction. The valve seat 2 has a valve seat end face 2a that closes the flow path due to contact with the valve body, i.e., the discharge valve 53, and a detector placement space 42e in which the detectors 61 are installed. Furthermore, the detection direction is towards the valve body across the valve seat end face 2a when the detectors 61 are installed in the detector placement space 42e. This allows for the monitoring of the state between the valve body and the valve seat. Furthermore, by accumulating data representing the state between the valve body and the valve seat obtained by the detectors 61 and comparing past and present data, it is possible to verify the amount of fluid flowing between the valve body and the valve seat, verify whether fluid is accidentally leaking between them, verify the amount of leakage, and identify signs of fluid leakage. Additionally, the degree of deterioration of the valve body or valve seat can be determined. Therefore, it is possible to detect valve body or valve seat malfunctions and their signs in advance.

[0084] According to the valve seat mechanism 1 in Embodiment 1, the detector mounting space 42e is not exposed to the flow path and the valve seat end face 2a. Therefore, a more reliable seal can be achieved for the flow path. Thus, the valve seat mechanism 1 of this disclosure can be applied even when an explosion-proof structure is required.

[0085] According to the valve seat mechanism 1 in Embodiment 1, the valve seat 2 includes: a cylindrical valve seat body 3, which forms part of the flow path; and a valve contact member 70, which is disposed on the valve seat body 3 and forms the valve seat end face 2a. Furthermore, the valve seat body 3 has a body end face 42d that serves as the end of the flow path and faces the valve body, i.e., the discharge valve 53, which closes the flow path. Additionally, a detector placement space 42e is formed in the valve seat body 3, and the detector placement space 42e is exposed on the body end face 42d. Furthermore, the valve contact member 70 covers the body end face 42d. Therefore, if the data obtained by the detection device 60 shows a trend different from the usual pattern, considering a certain anomaly in the valve body or valve seat 2, such as wear on the valve seat end face 2a of the valve seat 2, the problem can be solved simply by replacing the valve contact member 70. Therefore, maintenance work can be reduced. Moreover, in terms of ensuring spare parts for the valve seat mechanism 1, only the valve contact member 70 needs to be ensured as a replacement part. Therefore, the arrangement and storage of spare parts become easier.

[0086] The breather valve 5 in Embodiment 1 includes the valve seat mechanism 1 of this disclosure. This allows for monitoring of the state between the valve body and the valve seat. Furthermore, by accumulating data representing the state between the valve body and the valve seat obtained by the detector 61, and comparing past and present data, it is possible to verify the amount of fluid flowing between the valve body and the valve seat, whether fluid is accidentally leaking from between them, the amount of leakage, and to detect signs of leakage. Additionally, the degree of deterioration of the valve body or valve seat can be determined. Therefore, it is possible to detect valve body or valve seat malfunctions and their signs in advance.

[0087] Furthermore, in the breathing valve 5 of Embodiment 1, the detection device 60 is provided in the discharge section 40. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the detection device 60 may also be provided in the air intake section 20. That is, the detection device 60 may also be provided in the air intake valve seat 20x corresponding to the air intake valve 23 to monitor the behavior of the air intake valve 23.

[0088] Implementation method 2.

[0089] In Embodiment 2, the valve seat mechanism of this disclosure is described using the valve seat mechanism used in a breathing valve. However, the valve seat mechanism of this disclosure is not limited to breathing valves and can be appropriately applied to general valve mechanisms. In Embodiment 2, the structure with three detectors 61 differs from the detection device 60 of Embodiment 1. Figure 5 This is a top view showing the inlet section 42 of embodiment 2.

[0090] The detection device 60 has three detectors 61 and wiring 62 that transmits signals from each detector 61 to a control device (not shown). In the inlet section 42, three detector mounting spaces 42e are formed. In one detector mounting space 42e, one detector 61 and wiring 62 connected to the detector 61 are mounted.

[0091] The valve contact member 70 is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end face 42d. The openings of the plurality of detector mounting spaces 42e formed in the main body end face 42d are closed because the valve contact member 70 is provided at the inlet portion 42. That is, a plurality of detectors 61 are provided in the detector mounting spaces 42e covered by the valve contact member 70. The plurality of detectors 61 are respectively provided along the valve facing surface 70a. Furthermore, as... Figure 5As shown, the inner peripheral surface of the inlet portion 42, where each detector placement space 42e is formed, is further formed to protrude inward, and the wall thickness of the inlet portion 42 where the detector placement space 42e is formed becomes thicker than the wall thickness of the other portions. Furthermore, the valve contact member 70 is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end face 42d. However, this is not a limitation. For example, the wall thickness of the inlet portions 42 may be uniformly equal, that is, no inwardly protruding portion may be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the inlet portion 42, and the inner peripheral surface of the inlet portion 42 viewed from the axial direction may be circular. In this case, the valve contact member 70 is also formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end face 42d.

[0092] The multiple detectors 61 are all sensors of the same type; for example, all three detectors 61 can be set as distance sensors. Other structures in this embodiment 2 are the same as those disclosed in embodiment 1, therefore descriptions are omitted.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment 2, three detectors 61 are provided in the inlet portion 42. However, it is not limited to this. The number of detectors 61 provided in the inlet portion 42 may be two or more, that is, multiple. In addition, one or more detectors 61 may be provided in a detector setting space 42e. In this embodiment 2, multiple detectors 61 of the valve seat mechanism 1 are provided along the valve seat end face 2a. As a result, minute tilting or shaking of the discharge valve 53 can be studied in more detail. Therefore, the behavior of the valve body can be observed in more detail.

[0094] In embodiment 2, the multiple detectors 61 of the valve seat mechanism 1 are of a single type of sensor. Therefore, it is easy to compare and study the signals obtained from each detector 61. Consequently, it is easy and possible to study even minor tilting or wobbling of the discharge valve 53 in greater detail.

[0095] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, all three detectors 61 are sensors of the same type. However, this is not a limitation. For example, the three detectors 61 may be configured to use more than one distance sensor and more than one vibration sensor. That is, multiple sensors may be used as multiple detectors 61.

[0096] In the valve seat mechanism 1 of embodiment 2, at least two detectors 61 are sensors of different types. This allows for a multi-faceted study of the behavior of the discharge valve 53.

[0097] Furthermore, the valve seat mechanism 1 in Embodiments 1 and 2 is provided on the breather valve 5. However, it is not limited to this. Any valve mechanism that closes the flow path by using the valve member to close the valve seat end face 2a of the valve seat 2 and opens the flow path by leaving a gap between the valve member and the valve seat 2 can be provided with the valve seat mechanism 1 in Embodiments 1 and 2. Examples of such valve mechanisms include rotary valves such as ball valves and diaphragm valves.

[0098] The valve mechanism in Embodiment 1 includes the valve seat mechanism 1 of this disclosure and a valve body, i.e., a discharge valve 53, that closes the flow path. This allows for monitoring the state between the valve body and the valve seat. Furthermore, by accumulating data representing the state between the valve body and the valve seat obtained by the detector 61 and comparing past and present data, it is possible to verify the amount of fluid flowing between the valve body and the valve seat, whether fluid is accidentally leaking between them, the amount of leakage, and to identify signs of leakage. Additionally, the degree of deterioration of the valve body or valve seat can be determined. Therefore, it is possible to detect valve body or valve seat malfunctions and their signs in advance.

[0099] Furthermore, the valve seat mechanism 1 in Embodiments 1 and 2 uses a valve contact member 70. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the valve contact member 70 may not be used. In this case, a detector mounting space 42e is formed without an opening in the main body end face 42d of the valve side end 42b, and the main body end face 42d becomes the end face that contacts the discharge valve 53. That is, in this case, the valve seat end face 2a becomes the main body end face 32d. Because of this structure, the sealing between the discharge valve 53 and the main body end face 42d, i.e., the valve seat end face 2a, can be ensured, and the flow path can be closed. Moreover, because the valve contact member 70 is not used, the number of parts is reduced, which can save design and manufacturing costs. In addition, because the number of parts is reduced, the possibility of failure or malfunction is reduced.

[0100] The various methods disclosed herein are hereby recorded as notes.

[0101] (Note 1)

[0102] A valve seat mechanism includes: a valve seat forming part of a flow path; and one or more detectors for detecting a predetermined variable of a detection object in a detection direction, wherein the valve seat has a valve seat end face that closes the flow path due to contact with a valve body, the valve seat has a detector mounting space in which the detectors are mounted, and the detection direction is toward the valve body across the valve seat end face when the detectors are mounted in the detector mounting space.

[0103] (Note 2)

[0104] According to the valve seat mechanism described in Note 1, the detector mounting space is not exposed in the flow path and the valve seat end face.

[0105] (Note 3)

[0106] According to the valve seat mechanism described in Note 1 or Note 2, a plurality of the detectors are arranged along the end face of the valve seat.

[0107] (Note 4)

[0108] According to any one of Notes 1 to 3, the valve seat mechanism, the plurality of detectors are sensors of a single type.

[0109] (Note 5)

[0110] According to the valve seat mechanism described in Note 3, at least two of the detectors are sensors of different types.

[0111] (Note 6)

[0112] According to any one of Notes 1 to 5, the valve seat includes: a valve seat body forming part of the flow path; and a valve contact member disposed on the valve seat body and forming the valve seat end face, wherein the valve seat body has a body end face facing the valve body that closes the flow path, the detector placement space is formed in the valve seat body, the detector placement space is exposed on the body end face, and the valve contact member covers the body end face.

[0113] (Note 7)

[0114] A valve mechanism comprising: a valve seat mechanism according to any one of notes 1 to 6; and a valve body that closes the flow path.

[0115] (Note 8)

[0116] A breathing valve comprising a valve seat mechanism as described in any one of Notes 1 to 6.

[0117] Symbol Explanation

[0118] 1: Valve seat mechanism, 2: Valve seat, 2a: Valve seat end face, 3: Valve seat body, 4: Storage tank, 4a: Mounting part, 4b: Upstream flange, 5: Breather valve, 10: Main part, 10a: Inlet opening end, 10b: Outlet opening end, 10c: Inlet opening end, 20: Inlet part, 21: Inlet part body, 21a: Connecting side opening end, 21b: Inlet port, 21x: Inlet valve seat, 22: Inlet valve mechanism, 23: Inlet valve (valve body), 24: Inlet valve shaft, 25: Inlet valve guide, 40: Discharge part, 41: Discharge part body, 42: 42a: Inlet section; 42b: Valve side end; 42c: Valve side opening; 42d: Main body end face; 42e: Detector mounting space; 43: Atmospheric exhaust section; 43a: Exit outlet; 43b: Valve mechanism side opening end; 47: Vent cover; 50: Exhaust valve mechanism; 53: Exhaust valve (valve body); 54: Exhaust valve shaft; 55: Exhaust valve guide; 60: Detection device; 61: Detector; 62: Wiring; 70: Valve contact component; 110: Main flow path; 111: Branch flow path; 120: Inlet flow path; 140: Exhaust flow path.

Claims

1. A valve seat mechanism, characterized in that... include: The valve seat forms part of the flow path; and One or more detectors detect the specified variables of the target object in the detection direction, wherein, The valve seat has a valve seat end face that closes the flow path upon contact with the valve body. The valve seat forms a detector mounting space for the detector. The detection direction is toward the valve body, which is separated from the valve seat end face, when the detector is set in the detector setting space.

2. The valve seat mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detector space is not exposed in the flow path and the valve seat end face.

3. The valve seat mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple detectors are arranged along the end face of the valve seat.

4. The valve seat mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detectors are all sensors of a single type.

5. The valve seat mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, At least two of the detectors are sensors of different types.

6. The valve seat mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve seat includes: The valve seat body forms part of the flow path; and A valve contact component is disposed on the valve seat body and forms the valve seat end face, wherein, The valve seat body has a main end face that serves as the end of the flow path and faces the valve body that closes the flow path. The detector mounting space is formed in the valve seat body. The space where the detector is installed is exposed on the end face of the main body. The valve contact component covers the end face of the main body.

7. A valve mechanism, characterized in that... include: The valve seat mechanism according to claim 1; as well as The valve body closes the flow path.

8. A breathing valve, characterized in that, Includes the valve seat mechanism according to claim 1.

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