Method for manufacturing canister

Abstract

To provide a technology for reducing pressure loss in a canister.SOLUTION: A canister has an activated carbon molding that adsorbs evaporated fuel generated in a fuel tank of a vehicle, and an adsorption chamber that houses the activated carbon molding. A method for manufacturing a canister comprises pressing or suctioning fibrous activated carbon in a predetermined direction to form a columnar activated carbon molding, and arranging the activated carbon molding in the adsorption chamber so that a pressing or suctioning direction of the activated carbon molding is perpendicular to a flow direction of the evaporated fuel.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a canister. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a canister having an activated carbon molded body and an adsorption chamber. The activated carbon molded body is accommodated in the adsorption chamber. The activated carbon molded body adsorbs evaporated fuel generated in a fuel tank of a vehicle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2023 / 054088 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] As described in Patent Document 1, it is preferable that the pressure loss in the canister is small. One aspect of the present disclosure provides a technique for reducing the pressure loss in the canister. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is a method for manufacturing a canister having an activated carbon molded body that adsorbs evaporated fuel generated in a fuel tank of a vehicle and an adsorption chamber that accommodates the activated carbon molded body. The method for manufacturing the canister includes pressing or sucking activated carbon fiber in a predetermined direction to form a columnar activated carbon molded body, and arranging the formed activated carbon molded body in the adsorption chamber so that the pressing or sucking direction of the activated carbon molded body is perpendicular to the flow direction of the evaporated fuel. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce pressure loss in the canister.

[0006] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a dispersion liquid in which the fibrous activated carbon is dispersed may be poured into a mold having a bottom wall formed with a plurality of through holes, and the dispersion liquid may be sucked toward the bottom wall to form an activated carbon molded body. With this configuration, a canister with reduced pressure loss can be realized using a relatively simple device.

[0007] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the activated carbon molded body disposed in the adsorption chamber may have an equivalent diameter in a cross section perpendicular to the direction of the evaporated fuel flow that is larger than the length along the direction of the evaporated fuel flow. With this configuration, it is possible to realize a canister having activated carbon molded bodies whose equivalent diameter in a cross section perpendicular to the direction of the evaporated fuel flow is larger than the length along the direction of the evaporated fuel flow, and which has reduced pressure loss.

[0008] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an outer circumferential surface of the activated carbon molded body disposed in the adsorption chamber, around a flow direction of the evaporated fuel, may be in contact with an inner surface of the adsorption chamber.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the adsorption chamber may be connected to an atmospheric port that is open to the atmosphere. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the canister according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] Fig. 2A is a schematic diagram showing a molding step according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2B is a schematic diagram showing a state following Fig. 2A in the molding step according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2C is a schematic diagram showing a third adsorbent formed in the molding step according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 4A to 4C are cross-sectional views showing an arrangement step according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Fig. 4A is a schematic diagram showing a molding step according to the second embodiment, Fig. 4B is a schematic diagram showing a state following Fig. 4A in the molding step according to the second embodiment, and Fig. 4C is a schematic diagram showing a third adsorbent formed in the molding step according to the second embodiment. [Diagram 5]Fig. 5A is a schematic diagram showing a forming process in a forming step according to the third embodiment, Fig. 5B is a schematic diagram showing a cutting process in a forming step according to the third embodiment, and Fig. 5C is a schematic diagram showing a third adsorbent formed in the forming step according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] [1. First embodiment] [1-1. Canister configuration] 1 is an evaporated fuel treatment device that adsorbs and desorbs evaporated fuel generated in a fuel tank of a vehicle. The canister 1 includes a charge port 2A, a purge port 2B, an atmospheric port 2C, a case 3, a first adsorbent 4A, a second adsorbent 4B, a third adsorbent 4C, a first filter 5A, a second filter 5B, a third filter 5C, a fourth filter 5D, a fifth filter 5E, a first grid 6A, a second grid 6B, a first spring 7A, and a second spring 7B.

[0013] The charge port 2A is connected to a fuel tank of the vehicle via a pipe and is configured to take in the evaporated fuel generated in the fuel tank into the canister 1.

[0014] The purge port 2B is connected to an intake pipe of an engine of a vehicle via a purge valve, and is configured to discharge the evaporated fuel in the canister 1 from the canister 1 and supply it to the engine.

[0015] The atmospheric port 2C is open to the atmosphere through a pipe. The atmospheric port 2C is configured to release gas from which evaporated fuel has been removed into the atmosphere. The atmospheric port 2C is configured to take in outside air (i.e., purged air) to desorb (i.e., purge) the evaporated fuel adsorbed by the canister 1.

[0016] The case 3 is a housing that forms a space inside. The case 3 is provided with a charge port 2A, a purge port 2B, and an atmospheric port 2C. The case 3 has a first adsorption chamber 31, a second adsorption chamber 32, a third adsorption chamber 33, and a communication part 34.

[0017] The first adsorption chamber 31 is a portion that accommodates the first adsorbent 4A. The first adsorption chamber 31 is a cylindrical shape with a bottom. Hereinafter, the end of the first adsorption chamber 31 on the bottom wall 311 side in the axial direction is referred to as the first end 31a of the first adsorption chamber 31. Also, the end of the first adsorption chamber 31 opposite to the first end 31a in the axial direction is referred to as the second end 31b of the first adsorption chamber 31. The bottom wall 311 is provided with a charge port 2A and a purge port 2B. That is, the charge port 2A and the purge port 2B are connected to the first adsorption chamber 31. More specifically, the charge port 2A and the purge port 2B being connected to the first adsorption chamber 31 means that the charge port 2A and the purge port 2B are connected to the first adsorption chamber 31 without going through another chamber (i.e. directly).

[0018] The first adsorption chamber 31 communicates with the second adsorption chamber 32 at the second end 31b via a communication portion 34. The flow direction of the evaporated fuel in the first adsorption chamber 31 is parallel to the axial direction of the first adsorption chamber 31. A first adsorbent 4A, a first filter 5A, a second filter 5B, and a first grid 6A are arranged inside the first adsorption chamber 31.

[0019] The first adsorbent 4A adsorbs evaporated fuel generated in the fuel tank of the vehicle. The first adsorbent 4A in this embodiment is an aggregate of granular activated carbon.

[0020] The first filter 5A and the second filter 5B are configured to not pass the first adsorbent 4A but to pass gas. In the first adsorption chamber 31, the first filter 5A and the second filter 5B are arranged to sandwich the first adsorbent 4A in the flow direction of the evaporated fuel. The first filter 5A is adjacent to the first end 31a side of the first adsorption chamber 31 with respect to the first adsorbent 4A. The second filter 5B is adjacent to the second end 31b side of the first adsorption chamber 31 with respect to the first adsorbent 4A.

[0021] The first grid 6A is a plate-like member having air holes formed therein. The first grid 6A is, for example, in a lattice shape. The first grid 6A is adjacent to the second filter 5B on the second end 31b side of the first adsorption chamber 31 (i.e., the side opposite to the first adsorbent 4A side).

[0022] In the first adsorption chamber 31, the first adsorbent 4A is pressed toward the charge port 2A and the purge port 2B by the first spring 7A via the second filter 5B and the first grid 6A. The first spring 7A is an elastic member that biases an object in a predetermined direction.

[0023] The second adsorption chamber 32 is a portion that accommodates the second adsorbent 4B. The second adsorption chamber 32 is cylindrical. In the following, both axial ends of the second adsorption chamber 32 are referred to as a first end 32a and a second end 32b of the second adsorption chamber 32. The second adsorption chamber 32 is arranged side by side with the first adsorption chamber 31 in the radial direction. The second adsorption chamber 32 is arranged such that the first adsorption chamber 31 and the second ends 31b, 32b face the same side.

[0024] The second adsorption chamber 32 communicates with the first adsorption chamber 31 at the second end 32b via the communication portion 34. The second adsorption chamber 32 communicates with the third adsorption chamber 33 at the first end 32a. The flow direction of the evaporated fuel in the second adsorption chamber 32 is parallel to the axial direction of the second adsorption chamber 32. A second adsorbent 4B, a third filter 5C, a fourth filter 5D, and a second grid 6B are arranged inside the second adsorption chamber 32.

[0025] The second adsorbent 4B adsorbs evaporated fuel generated in the fuel tank of the vehicle. The second adsorbent 4B in this embodiment is an aggregate of granular activated carbon.

[0026] The third filter 5C and the fourth filter 5D are configured to not allow the second adsorbent 4B to pass through, but to allow gas to pass through. In the second adsorption chamber 32, the third filter 5C and the fourth filter 5D are arranged to sandwich the second adsorbent 4B in the flow direction of the evaporated fuel. The third filter 5C is adjacent to the first end 32a side of the second adsorption chamber 32 with respect to the second adsorbent 4B. The fourth filter 5D is adjacent to the second end 32b side of the second adsorption chamber 32 with respect to the second adsorbent 4B.

[0027] The second grid 6B is a plate-like member having air holes formed therein. The second grid 6B is, for example, in a lattice shape. The second grid 6B is adjacent to the fourth filter 5D on the second end 32b side of the second adsorption chamber 32 (i.e., the side opposite to the second adsorbent 4B side).

[0028] In the second adsorption chamber 32, the second adsorption material 4B is pressed toward the third adsorption chamber 33 (i.e., toward the atmospheric port 2C, as described below) by the second spring 7B via the fourth filter 5D and the second grid 6B. The second spring 7B is an elastic member that biases an object in a predetermined direction.

[0029] The third adsorption chamber 33 is a portion that accommodates the third adsorbent 4C. The third adsorption chamber 33 has a tubular portion 331 and a lid portion 332. The tubular portion 331 is a tubular portion. The tubular portion 331 in this embodiment is a rectangular tubular portion. Hereinafter, both ends of the tubular portion 331 in the axial direction are referred to as a first end portion 331a and a second end portion 331b of the tubular portion 331. The lid portion 332 is disposed so as to cover the opening of the first end portion 331a of the tubular portion 331. The lid portion 332 is joined to the tubular portion 331 by, for example, vibration welding. The lid portion 332 is provided with an atmospheric port 2C. That is, the atmospheric port 2C is connected to the third adsorption chamber 33. More specifically, the atmospheric port 2C being connected to the third adsorption chamber 33 means that the atmospheric port 2C is connected to the third adsorption chamber 33 without going through another chamber (that is, directly).

[0030] The third adsorption chamber 33 is arranged side by side with the first adsorption chamber 31 in the radial direction. The third adsorption chamber 33 is arranged so that the first end 331a of the cylindrical portion 331 faces the same side as the first end 31a of the first adsorption chamber 31. In addition, the third adsorption chamber 33 is arranged side by side with the second adsorption chamber 32 in the axial direction. The axial direction of the third adsorption chamber 33 coincides with the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 331.

[0031] The third adsorption chamber 33 communicates with the second adsorption chamber 32 at the second end 331b of the cylindrical portion 331. The flow direction of the evaporated fuel in the third adsorption chamber 33 is parallel to the axial direction of the third adsorption chamber 33. A third adsorbent 4C and a fifth filter 5E are disposed inside the third adsorption chamber 33.

[0032] The third adsorbent 4C adsorbs evaporated fuel generated in the fuel tank of the vehicle. The third adsorbent 4C is an activated carbon molding formed from fibrous activated carbon. The third adsorbent 4C is integrally molded. In other words, the third adsorbent 4C is not a combination of multiple activated carbon moldings, but a single activated carbon molding.

[0033] The third adsorbent 4C is columnar. The third adsorbent 4C in this embodiment is square columnar. The third adsorbent 4C is disposed in the third adsorption chamber 33 so that its axial direction coincides with the axial direction of the third adsorption chamber 33. The outer peripheral surface of the third adsorbent 4C is in contact with the inner surface of the third adsorption chamber 33. The outer peripheral surface of the third adsorbent 4C refers to the outer surface of the third adsorbent 4C around the axial direction of the third adsorbent 4C. In other words, the outer peripheral surface of the third adsorbent 4C refers to the outer surface of the third adsorbent 4C around the flow direction of the evaporated fuel. The flow direction of the evaporated fuel referred to here is, more specifically, the flow direction of the evaporated fuel in the third adsorption chamber 33.

[0034] The third adsorbent 4C has an equivalent diameter D in a cross section perpendicular to the evaporated fuel flow direction that is larger than the length L along the evaporated fuel flow direction. The equivalent diameter in a cross section perpendicular to the evaporated fuel flow direction is the diameter (D=(S / π) 1 / 2 ×2) in the direction of fuel vapor flow.

[0035] The fifth filter 5E is configured to allow gas to pass through while not allowing the third adsorbent 4C to pass through. The fifth filter 5E is adjacent to the first end 331a side of the cylindrical portion 331 with respect to the third adsorbent 4C.

[0036] The communication part 34 is a portion that forms a communication passage 341 that communicates between the first adsorption chamber 31 and the second adsorption chamber 32. The communication part 34 is disposed so as to cover the opening of the second end 31b of the first adsorption chamber 31 and the opening of the second end 32b of the second adsorption chamber 32.

[0037] In the canister 1, a substantially U-shaped flow passage for the evaporated fuel is formed by the first adsorption chamber 31, the communication portion 34, the second adsorption chamber 32, and the third adsorption chamber 33. The evaporated fuel taken in from the charge port 2A is adsorbed by the first adsorbent 4A in the first adsorption chamber 31. The evaporated fuel that is not completely adsorbed in the first adsorption chamber 31 flows through the communication passage 341 into the second adsorption chamber 32, where it is adsorbed by the second adsorbent 4B. Furthermore, the evaporated fuel that is not completely adsorbed in the second adsorption chamber 32 flows into the third adsorption chamber 33, where it is adsorbed by the third adsorbent 4C. The gas from which the evaporated fuel has been removed is released from the atmosphere port 2C.

[0038] Furthermore, by supplying air from the atmospheric port 2C, the evaporated fuel adsorbed in the first adsorption chamber 31, the second adsorption chamber 32, and the third adsorption chamber 33 is discharged from the purge port 2B to the vehicle engine, so that air containing evaporated fuel is supplied to the engine.

[0039] [1-2. Canister manufacturing method] A method for manufacturing the canister 1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. The method for manufacturing the canister 1 includes at least a molding step and a placement step.

[0040] <Forming process> The forming step is a step of pressing or sucking the fibrous activated carbon 41 in a predetermined direction to form the third adsorbent 4C. As shown in Figures 2A to 2C, the forming step in this embodiment is a step of sucking the fibrous activated carbon 41 in a predetermined direction to form the third adsorbent 4C. Hereinafter, the direction in which the fibrous activated carbon 41 is sucked is referred to as the suction direction W1.

[0041] In the molding process of this embodiment, molding apparatus 100 A is used. Molding apparatus 100 A includes molding die 110 and suction unit 120.

[0042] The forming die 110 is a die having a molding surface for molding the fibrous activated carbon 41. The forming die 110 is made of, for example, metal. The forming die 110 forms a recess 111 corresponding to the outer shape of the third adsorbent 4C. That is, the forming die 110 has a bottom wall 112 that constitutes the bottom surface of the recess 111, and a side wall 113 that constitutes the side surface of the recess 111. The bottom surface and the side surface of the recess 111 correspond to the molding surface.

[0043] The bottom wall 112 of this embodiment has a flat plate shape with a rectangular outer shape in a plan view. A plurality of through holes 114 are formed in the bottom wall 112. The bottom wall 112 has, for example, a mesh shape.

[0044] The side wall 113 extends from the entire circumference of the outer periphery of the bottom wall 112 in a plan view to one surface side of the bottom wall 112. The distance S1 between two opposing portions on the inner surface of the side wall 113 (i.e., the side surface of the recess 111) is set corresponding to the length L of the third adsorbent 4C.

[0045] The suction section 120 is configured to suck the inside of the recess 111 through the multiple through holes 114. In other words, the suction section 120 is configured to suck the inside of the recess 111 toward the bottom wall 112.

[0046] 2A, in the molding step, a dispersion 42 in which fibrous activated carbon 41 is dispersed is placed in a recess 111 of a molding die 110. The dispersion 42 may contain, for example, a binder and granular activated carbon in addition to the fibrous activated carbon 41.

[0047] The dispersion liquid 42 placed in the recess 111 is sucked toward the bottom wall 112 by the suction unit 120, and the moisture is removed. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 2B, the dispersion liquid 42 is sucked toward the bottom wall 112 until the moisture is removed and the height of the fibrous activated carbon 41 from the bottom wall 112 in the recess 111 decreases to a predetermined height H. The predetermined height H is set corresponding to the equivalent diameter D of the third adsorbent 4C.

[0048] In this manner, the dispersion liquid 42 placed in the forming mold 110 is sucked and the moisture is removed, so that the fibrous activated carbon 41 is formed into a columnar shape. In this embodiment, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is formed into a square columnar shape. As a result, as shown in FIG. 2C, the third adsorbent 4C is obtained. In the process of sucking the dispersion liquid 42, as shown in FIG. 2B, the fibers of the fibrous activated carbon 41 contained in the dispersion liquid 42 tend to be oriented perpendicular to the suction direction W1. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2C, the third adsorbent 4C formed in the molding process tends to contain a large amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the suction direction W1.

[0049] <Placement process> 3, the disposing step is a step of disposing the third adsorbent 4C formed in the molding step in the third adsorption chamber 33. The third adsorbent 4C formed in the molding step is press-fitted into the cylindrical portion 331 from the opening of the first end 331a of the cylindrical portion 331. The third adsorbent 4C is disposed in the cylindrical portion 331 so that the suction direction W1 in the third adsorbent 4C is perpendicular to the flow direction F of the evaporated fuel. More specifically, the flow direction F of the evaporated fuel in this case is the flow direction F of the evaporated fuel in the third adsorption chamber 33.

[0050] Next, fifth filter 5E is press-fitted into cylindrical portion 331 through the opening at first end 331a of cylindrical portion 331.

[0051] Then, the lid portion 332 is disposed so as to cover the opening of the first end portion 331a of the cylindrical portion 331. The lid portion 332 is joined to the cylindrical portion 331 by, for example, vibration welding.

[0052] As a result of the disposing step, the third adsorbent 4C is disposed in the third adsorption chamber 33 as shown in FIG.

[0053] <Other processes> The first adsorbent 4A, the first filter 5A, the second filter 5B, and the first grid 6A are disposed in the first adsorption chamber 31. The second adsorbent 4B, the third filter 5C, the fourth filter 5D, and the second grid 6B are disposed in the second adsorption chamber 32. In addition, the communication part 34 is disposed in a state in which the first spring 7A is disposed so as to press the first adsorbent 4A, and the second spring 7B is disposed so as to press the second adsorbent 4B. Specifically, the communication part 34 is disposed so as to cover the opening of the second end 31b of the first adsorption chamber 31 and the opening of the second end 32b of the second adsorption chamber 32.

[0054] Through these steps, the canister 1 is manufactured.

[0055] [1-3. Effects] According to the first embodiment described above in detail, the following effects can be obtained.

[0056] (1a) The manufacturing method of the canister 1 includes a molding step and an arrangement step. In the molding step, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is sucked in a predetermined direction to form the third adsorbent 4C. In the arrangement step, the third adsorbent 4C is arranged in the third adsorption chamber 33 so that the suction direction W1 of the third adsorbent 4C is perpendicular to the flow direction F of the evaporated fuel.

[0057] According to this configuration, in the molding step, the third adsorbent 4C containing a large amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the suction direction W1 can be molded. Then, in the disposing step, the third adsorbent 4C molded in the molding step is disposed in the third adsorption chamber 33 as described above. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the flow direction F of the evaporated fuel in the third adsorbent 4C disposed in the third adsorption chamber 33. Therefore, the air flow resistance in the third adsorbent 4C can be reduced. As a result, the pressure loss in the canister 1 can be reduced.

[0058] (1b) In the molding step, the dispersion liquid 42 in which the fibrous activated carbon 41 is dispersed is placed in the recess 111 of the forming die 110 and is sucked toward the bottom wall 112. This forms the third adsorbent 4C. With this configuration, the third adsorbent 4C containing a large amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the suction direction W1 can be formed using a relatively simple device. Therefore, the canister 1 with reduced pressure loss can be realized using a relatively simple device.

[0059] (1c) When forming an adsorbent such as the third adsorbent 4C of this embodiment, in which the length L is smaller than the equivalent diameter D, the fibrous activated carbon is generally sucked in a direction corresponding to the length L, which is a relatively small dimension of the adsorbent. When the adsorbent formed in this manner is placed in the adsorption chamber, the suction direction in the adsorbent is parallel to the flow direction of the evaporated fuel in the adsorption chamber. That is, the adsorbent placed in the adsorption chamber is likely to contain a large amount of fibrous activated carbon oriented perpendicular to the flow direction of the evaporated fuel. When the adsorbent contains a large amount of fibrous activated carbon oriented perpendicular to the flow direction of the evaporated fuel, the airflow resistance of the adsorbent becomes high.

[0060] In contrast to this, in the manufacturing method of the canister 1 of this embodiment, although the third adsorbent 4C has an equivalent diameter D larger than the length L, in the molding step, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is sucked in a direction corresponding to the direction of the equivalent diameter D of the third adsorbent 4C and molded. Then, in the arrangement step, the third adsorbent 4C molded in the molding step is placed in the third adsorption chamber 33 such that the suction direction W1 of the third adsorbent 4C is perpendicular to the flow direction F of the evaporated fuel. With this configuration, it is possible to realize a canister 1 having a third adsorbent 4C whose equivalent diameter D is larger than the length L and in which pressure loss is reduced.

[0061] (1d) As described in Patent Document 1, when an adsorbent is formed by stacking a plurality of plate-shaped activated carbon moldings, it is common to fasten the activated carbon moldings together using a fastener when placing the adsorbent in the adsorption chamber so that the activated carbon moldings do not separate from each other.

[0062] In contrast, in this embodiment, the third adsorbent 4C is formed as a columnar activated carbon molding. The third adsorbent 4C is placed in the third adsorption chamber 33 without using a fixing tool. In the completed canister 1, the outer peripheral surface of the third adsorbent 4C around the flow direction of the evaporated fuel contacts the inner surface of the third adsorption chamber 33.

[0063] According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the number of steps and parts required when manufacturing the canister 1. In turn, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost of the canister 1.

[0064] [2. Second embodiment] [2-1. Canister manufacturing method] The method for manufacturing the canister 1 of the second embodiment includes at least a molding step and an arrangement step, similarly to the first embodiment. Note that the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment indicate the same configurations, and the preceding description is to be referred to.

[0065] <Forming process> The molding step in the first embodiment is a step of sucking the fibrous activated carbon 41 in a predetermined direction to mold the third adsorbent 4C. In contrast, the molding step in the second embodiment is a step of pressing the fibrous activated carbon 41 in a predetermined direction to mold the third adsorbent 4C, as shown in Figures 4A to 4C. Hereinafter, the direction in which the fibrous activated carbon 41 in the second embodiment is pressed is referred to as the pressing direction W2.

[0066] In the molding step of the second embodiment, a molding apparatus 100B is used. The molding apparatus 100B includes a molding die 130 and a pressing unit 140.

[0067] The molding die 130 is a die having a molding surface for molding the fibrous activated carbon 41. The molding die 130 is made of, for example, metal. The molding die 130 forms a recess 131 corresponding to the outer shape of the third adsorbent 4C. That is, the molding die 130 has a bottom wall 132 that constitutes the bottom surface of the recess 131, and a side wall 133 that constitutes the side surface of the recess 131. The bottom surface and the side surface of the recess 131 correspond to the molding surface.

[0068] The bottom wall 132 in this embodiment has a flat plate shape with a rectangular outer shape in a plan view.

[0069] The side wall 133 extends from the entire circumference of the outer periphery of the bottom wall 132 in a plan view to one surface side of the bottom wall 132. The distance S2 between two opposing portions on the inner surface of the side wall 133 (i.e., the side surface of the recess 131) is set corresponding to the above-mentioned length L of the third adsorbent 4C.

[0070] The pressing portion 140 is configured to be able to slide inside the recessed portion 131. The pressing portion 140 is configured to press inside the recessed portion 131. The pressing surface of the pressing portion 140 corresponds to the molding surface. The pressing surface of the pressing portion 140 refers to the outer surface of the pressing portion 140 that faces the bottom wall 132 when pressing inside the recessed portion 131. The pressing surface in this embodiment is flat.

[0071] In the molding step, as shown in Fig. 4A, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is placed in the recess 131 of the molding die 130. The fibrous activated carbon 41 placed in the recess 131 is pressed toward the bottom wall 132 by the pressing part 140. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 4B, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is pressed toward the bottom wall 132 until the height of the fibrous activated carbon 41 from the bottom wall 132 in the recess 131 decreases to a predetermined height H. The predetermined height H is the same as the predetermined height H in the first embodiment.

[0072] By pressing the fibrous activated carbon 41 in this manner, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is formed into a columnar shape. In this embodiment, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is formed into a square columnar shape. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4C, a third adsorbent 4C is obtained. In the process of pressing the fibrous activated carbon 41, the fibers of the fibrous activated carbon 41 tend to be oriented perpendicular to the pressing direction W2, as shown in FIG. 4B. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4C, the third adsorbent 4C formed by the forming process tends to contain a large amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the pressing direction W2.

[0073] <Placement process> The arrangement process of the second embodiment is similar to the arrangement process of the first embodiment, except that in the second embodiment, the suction direction W1 in the first embodiment is replaced with a pressing direction W2.

[0074] [2-2. Effects] According to the second embodiment described above in detail, the same effects as those in (1a) and (1b) above can be obtained as described below. In addition, the same effects as those in (1c) and (1d) above can be obtained. Note that the word "suction" in (1c) above should be read as "pressure" and the suction direction W1 should be read as "pressure direction W2."

[0075] (2a) The method for manufacturing the canister 1 of the second embodiment includes a molding step and an arrangement step, similar to the first embodiment. According to this configuration, in the molding step, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is pressed in a predetermined direction, so that the third adsorbent 4C containing a large amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the pressing direction W2 can be formed. Then, in the arrangement step, the third adsorbent 4C is arranged in the third adsorption chamber 33 so that the pressing direction W2 of the third adsorbent 4C is perpendicular to the flow direction F of the evaporated fuel. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the flow direction F of the evaporated fuel in the third adsorbent 4C arranged in the third adsorption chamber 33. Therefore, the same effect as that of (1a) above can be obtained.

[0076] (2b) In the molding step, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is placed in the recess 131 of the molding die 130 and pressed toward the bottom wall 132. This forms the third adsorbent 4C. With this configuration, it is possible to mold the third adsorbent 4C, which contains a large amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the pressing direction W2, using a relatively simple device. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the same effect as in (1b) above.

[0077] [3. Third embodiment] [3-1. Canister manufacturing method] The manufacturing method of the canister 1 of the third embodiment includes at least a molding step and an arrangement step, similarly to the first and second embodiments. Note that the same reference numerals as those of the first and second embodiments indicate the same configurations, and the preceding description is to be referred to.

[0078] <Forming process> 5A to 5C, the molding step of the third embodiment is a step of pressing the activated carbon fiber 41 in a predetermined direction to form a third adsorbent 4C, similar to the molding step of the second embodiment. Hereinafter, the direction in which the activated carbon fiber 41 in the third embodiment is pressed is referred to as a pressing direction W3. The molding step of the third embodiment includes a molding process and a cutting process.

[0079] (molding process) In the molding process, a molding apparatus 100C shown in Fig. 5A is used. The molding apparatus 100C has a conveyor 150 and a roller 160. The conveyor 150 has a rotatable belt 151. The conveyor 150 is configured to convey the fibrous activated carbon 41 deposited on the belt 151 to the roller 160 side by the rotation of the belt 151.

[0080] The roller 160 is disposed above the belt 151. The roller 160 is configured to be rotatable about a rotation shaft 161. The roller 160 is configured to press the fibrous activated carbon 41 deposited on the belt 151 toward the belt 151.

[0081] In the molding process, as shown in Fig. 5A, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is deposited on the upper surface of the belt 151. Then, as the belt 151 rotates, the fibrous activated carbon 41 is transported to the roller 160 side, and is pressed toward the belt 151 side by the roller 160. In this way, a sheet-like intermediate molded body 43 is molded. The thickness T of the intermediate molded body 43 is the same as the equivalent diameter D of the third adsorbent 4C. That is, in the molding device 100C, the roller 160 is disposed between the upper surface of the belt 151 and the roller 160 at a distance corresponding to the equivalent diameter D of the third adsorbent 4C.

[0082] In the process of pressing the fibrous activated carbon 41, the fibers of the fibrous activated carbon 41 tend to be oriented perpendicular to the pressing direction W3, as shown in Fig. 5B. Therefore, the intermediate molded body 43 formed by molding tends to contain a large amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to the pressing direction W3.

[0083] (cutting process) In the cutting process, intermediate compact 43 formed by molding is cut to a dimension S3 corresponding to the length L of third adsorbent 4C and formed into a columnar shape. In Fig. 5B, an example of the cutting line is shown by a two-dot chain line. By forming intermediate compact 43 into a columnar shape, third adsorbent 4C is obtained as shown in Fig. 5C. Third adsorbent 4C formed through molding and cutting tends to contain a large amount of fibrous activated carbon 41 oriented perpendicular to pressing direction W3.

[0084] <Placement process> The arrangement process of the third embodiment is similar to the arrangement process of the first embodiment, except that in the third embodiment, the suction direction W1 in the first embodiment is replaced with a pressing direction W3.

[0085] [3-2. Effects] According to the third embodiment described above in detail, for the same reason as described in (2a) above, the same effect as in (1a) above can be obtained. Furthermore, the same effects as in (1c) and (1d) above can be obtained. Note that the word "suction" in (1c) above should be read as "pressure" and the suction direction W1 should be read as "pressure direction W3."

[0086] [4. Other embodiments] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it goes without saying that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can take various forms.

[0087] (4a) In the above embodiment, the equivalent diameter D of the third adsorbent 4C is larger than the length L, but the equivalent diameter D does not necessarily have to be larger than the length L. The equivalent diameter D of the third adsorbent 4C may be equal to the length L, for example.

[0088] (4b) In the above embodiment, the atmospheric port 2C is directly connected to the third adsorption chamber 33. However, the third adsorption chamber 33 may be connected to the atmospheric port 2C via, for example, another chamber. In other words, another chamber may be provided between the third adsorption chamber 33 and the atmospheric port 2C.

[0089] (4c) The function of one component in the above embodiments may be distributed among multiple components, or the functions of multiple components may be integrated into one component. Also, part of the configuration of the above embodiments may be omitted. Also, at least part of the configuration of the above embodiments may be added to or substituted for the configuration of another of the above embodiments.

[0090] [Technical idea disclosed in this specification] [Item 1] A method for manufacturing a canister having an activated carbon molded body for adsorbing evaporated fuel generated in a fuel tank of a vehicle and an adsorption chamber for accommodating the activated carbon molded body, comprising the steps of: Pressing or sucking the fibrous activated carbon in a predetermined direction to form a columnar activated carbon molding; placing the formed activated carbon molded body in the adsorption chamber such that a pressing or suction direction of the activated carbon molded body is perpendicular to a flow direction of the evaporated fuel; A method for manufacturing a canister comprising the steps of:

[0091] [Item 2] A method for producing the canister according to item 1, A method for manufacturing a canister, comprising: putting a dispersion liquid in which the fibrous activated carbon is dispersed into a mold having a bottom wall formed with a plurality of through holes; and sucking the dispersion liquid toward the bottom wall to form the activated carbon molded body.

[0092] [Item 3] A method for producing a canister according to item 1 or 2, The activated carbon molded body disposed in the adsorption chamber has an equivalent diameter in a cross section perpendicular to a flow direction of the evaporated fuel that is larger than a length along the flow direction of the evaporated fuel.

[0093] [Item 4] A method for producing a canister according to any one of items 1 to 3, comprising the steps of: a first activated carbon molding disposed in the adsorption chamber and having an outer peripheral surface in a direction along which the fuel vapor flows, the outer peripheral surface being in contact with an inner surface of the adsorption chamber;

[0094] [Item 5] A method for producing a canister according to any one of items 1 to 4, comprising the steps of: A method for manufacturing a canister, wherein the adsorption chamber is connected to an atmospheric port that is open to the atmosphere. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1...canister, 2A...charge port, 2B...purge port, 2C...atmospheric port, 3...case, 31...first adsorption chamber, 32...second adsorption chamber, 33...third adsorption chamber, 34...communicating portion, 4A...first adsorbent, 4B...second adsorbent, 4C...third adsorbent, 41...fibrous activated carbon, 42...dispersion liquid, 100A...molding apparatus, 110...molding mold, 111...recess, 112...bottom wall, 113...side wall, 114...through hole, 120...suction portion.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a canister having an activated carbon molded body for adsorbing evaporated fuel generated in a fuel tank of a vehicle and an adsorption chamber for accommodating the activated carbon molded body, comprising the steps of: Pressing or sucking the fibrous activated carbon in a predetermined direction to form a columnar activated carbon molding; placing the formed activated carbon molded body in the adsorption chamber such that a pressing or suction direction of the activated carbon molded body is perpendicular to a flow direction of the evaporated fuel; A method for manufacturing a canister comprising the steps of:

2. A method for manufacturing a canister according to claim 1, comprising the steps of: A method for manufacturing a canister, comprising: putting a dispersion liquid in which the fibrous activated carbon is dispersed into a mold having a bottom wall formed with a plurality of through holes; and sucking the dispersion liquid toward the bottom wall to form the activated carbon molded body.

3. A method for manufacturing a canister according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the steps of: The activated carbon molded body disposed in the adsorption chamber has an equivalent diameter in a cross section perpendicular to a flow direction of the evaporated fuel that is larger than a length along the flow direction of the evaporated fuel.

4. A method for manufacturing a canister according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the steps of: a first activated carbon molding disposed in the adsorption chamber and having an outer peripheral surface in a direction along which the fuel vapor flows, the outer peripheral surface being in contact with an inner surface of the adsorption chamber;

5. A method for manufacturing a canister according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the steps of: The adsorption chamber is connected to an atmospheric port that is open to the atmosphere.

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