Water flow detector

Abstract

To provide a water flow detector that can improve maintenance workability and reduce a mistake in the maintenance work with a simple device structure.SOLUTION: In a water flow detector 1, a switch 34 for switching between an ON position where the output of a detection signal from a detection unit that detects a valve-open state of a valve body of a check valve mechanism to a notification unit is enabled, and an OFF position where the output of the detection signal is blocked is provided in a housing 40. In the housing 40, a switch operation opening 45 that allows the switch 34 to be operated from the outside of the housing 40 is formed. The device further has a switch cover 50 comprising: a protruding switch operation part 51 that contacts the switch 34 at the OFF position and displaces the switch 34 to the ON position when detachably provided in the switch operation opening 45 and mounted in the switch operation opening 45; and a connecting part 55 that maintains a connected state with the housing 40 even in a state of being detached from the switch operation opening 45.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a flowing water detection device, and more particularly to a flowing water detection device provided as a part of a water distribution pipe system of a fire extinguishing facility.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, fire extinguishing facilities such as sprinkler facilities are provided with a detection unit for detecting water flowing in a water distribution pipe, and when water flows in the water distribution pipe, a flowing water detection device that outputs the detection signal from the detection unit to an alarm unit is provided as a part of the water distribution pipe system. For example, when the flowing water detection device detects the flow of water in the water distribution pipe due to the operation of the sprinkler by the detection unit, the detection signal is output from the detection unit to an alarm unit such as an alarm device. As a result, the alarm unit can notify people around the fire extinguishing facility of the occurrence of a fire as an alarm and prompt immediate evacuation.

[0003] Such a flowing water detection device includes a valve body of a check valve mechanism and a detection unit for detecting the valve open state of the valve body, and a signal is output from the detection unit to the alarm unit when the detection unit and the alarm unit are electrically connected.

[0004] And, in the flowing water detection device, when performing maintenance work, in order to prevent an alarm from being erroneously notified by the alarm unit, before starting the maintenance work, it is set to an off position where the output of the detection signal from the detection unit to the alarm unit is blocked, and after the maintenance work is completed, a switch is provided that can be switched to an on position that enables the output of the detection signal.

[0005] According to such a switch, it is possible to prevent an alarm from being erroneously notified during maintenance work. However, since there is a possibility that the operator may forget to return the switch to the on position after the maintenance work is completed, a technique has been proposed that can surely return the switch set to the off position to the on position after the maintenance work is completed.

[0006] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a water flow detection device in which a signal output stop means for detecting the flowing water in a pipe and preventing the signal output by the signal output means from being transmitted externally is housed in a terminal box. During inspection, to ensure the signal output stop state, the signal output stop means is securely installed at a predetermined position between a limit switch and a limit switch pressing means. After the inspection is completed, to ensure the release of the signal output stop means, a water flow detection device is described in which the lid of the terminal box cannot be closed while the signal output stop means is applied.

[0007] In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses a water flow detection device in which a limit switch, a switch, and an output device are installed inside a housing. The switch can open and close the circuit between the limit switch and the terminal block, and is normally in the "positioning" state where the circuit is closed. The signal of the limit switch can be sent to the receiver via the terminal block. When the circuit is opened to the "signal stop" state by operating the switch, the signal is not sent to the receiver even if the limit switch operates. In the water flow detection device described in this Patent Document 2, in order to ensure the release of the signal stop state after the inspection is completed, when the switch is in the "signal stop" state, it is designed to prompt the operator's attention by means of displays such as sounds, lighting, and flashing.

[0008] In addition to the maintenance work of the water flow detection device itself, when performing maintenance work on the equipment to which the water flow detection device is attached, such as sprinkler equipment, it is also necessary to turn off the switch. In addition, the above-mentioned switch is arranged inside the housing in which the detection unit is housed to prevent unauthorized operation by persons other than the administrator of the water flow detection device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0009]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] However, in the flowing water detection device described in Patent Document 1, not only for the maintenance work of the flowing water detection device itself, but also for the maintenance work of the equipment to be installed such as sprinkler equipment, it is necessary to open the lid of the terminal box for switch operation. Moreover, since the signal output stop means has to be installed at a predetermined position between the limit switch and the limit switch pressing means, there is a problem that the maintenance work becomes complicated. And in the flowing water detection device described in Patent Document 1, the housing is provided with a storage part for the signal output stop means as a loss prevention means. Furthermore, in order to ensure the signal output stop state, it is necessary to provide a guide part for the signal output stop means near the limit switch or the like so that the signal output stop means is surely installed at a predetermined position between the limit switch and the limit switch pressing means. Therefore, there is a problem that the device configuration becomes complicated. Also, for the flowing water detection device described in Patent Document 2, in the maintenance work of the equipment to be installed such as sprinkler equipment, it is necessary to open the lid of the housing for switch operation. And in the flowing water detection device described in Patent Document 2, when the switch is in the "signal stop" state, it alerts the operator by means of display such as sound, lighting, and flashing. Therefore, there is a problem that the device configuration becomes complicated.

[0011] The present invention has been developed to solve the conventional problems. The object is to provide a flowing water detection device with a simple device structure that can improve the maintainability of maintenance work and reduce mistakes in maintenance work.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0012] To achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 includes a valve body of a check valve mechanism and a detection unit that detects the valve open state of the valve body, and an on position that enables the output of a detection signal from the detection unit to a notification unit and a switch for switching an operation to an off position that cuts off the output of the detection signal are provided in the housing. An opening for operating the switch is formed in the housing so that the switch can be operated from the outside of the housing. The switch cover is detachably provided at the switch operation opening, and when attached to the switch operation opening, it abuts against the switch in the off position and displaces the switch to the on position. It is a flowing water detection device having a convex switch operation opening and a connecting portion that maintains the connection state with the housing even when detached from the switch operation opening.

[0013] The invention according to claim 2 is a rocker switch in which an on operation surface and an off operation surface are arranged side by side in a straight line. The switch cover has an extension portion extending in a straight line direction from the base end portion of the convex switch operation portion toward the side facing the off operation surface, and the width from one end surface of the convex switch operation portion to the extending end surface of the extension portion is substantially equal to the opening width of the switch operation opening in the same direction. It is a flowing water detection device provided with a fitting portion fitted into the switch operation opening so that the convex switch operation portion is positioned at a position where it presses the on operation surface.

[0014] The invention according to claim 3 is a flowing water detection device in which the switch cover has a shape in which the extending end surface of the extension portion is warped outward toward the back side in the mounting direction to the switch operation opening.

[0015] The invention according to claim 4 is such that the connecting portion has a rod-shaped portion inserted into an insertion hole formed in the housing and a retaining portion provided at the tip of the rod-shaped portion including a portion having a diameter larger than that of the insertion hole. The rod-shaped portion is set to a length such that when the switch cover is attached to the switch operation opening, the fitting portion cannot be fitted into the switch operation opening in a posture where the convex switch operation portion faces the off operation surface. It is a flowing water detection device.

[0016] The invention according to claim 5 is a flowing water detection device in which the switch cover is made of an elastic material.

Effect of the Invention

[0017] According to the invention according to claim 1, an operation opening for a switch is formed in the housing so that the switch can be operated from the outside of the housing. A switch cover is detachably provided in the operation opening for the switch, and when attached to the operation opening for the switch, it has a convex switch operation portion that abuts on the switch in the off position and displaces this switch to the on position, and a connecting portion that maintains the connection state with the housing even in a state of being detached from the operation opening for the switch. Thereby, when performing maintenance work on the equipment to which the flowing water detection device is attached, the operator only needs to remove the switch cover, which is a part of the housing, from the operation opening for the switch, and can switch the switch to the off position through the operation opening for the switch from the outside of the housing. Also, when the maintenance work is completed, the operator must surely attach the switch cover, which catches the eye in an unnatural state of being detached from the operation opening for the switch while being connected to the housing via the connecting portion, to the operation opening for the switch. When the switch cover is attached to the operation opening for the switch, the convex switch operation portion abuts on the switch in the off position and the switch is displaced to the on position. Therefore, before starting the maintenance work on the equipment to which the flowing water detection device is attached, the switch can be operated to the off position through the operation opening for the switch by simply detaching the switch cover from the operation opening for the switch of the housing. After the maintenance work is completed, the switch can be surely returned to the on position by simply attaching the switch cover to the operation opening for the switch of the housing. As a result, with a simple device structure, the maintainability can be improved and mistakes in the maintenance work can be reduced.

[0018] According to the invention according to claim 2, the switch is a rocker switch in which the on operation surface and the off operation surface are arranged side by side on a straight line. The switch cover has an extension portion extending in a straight line direction from the base end portion of the convex switch operation portion toward the side facing the off operation surface, and the width from one end surface of the convex switch operation portion to the extending end surface of the extension portion is made substantially equal to the opening width of the switch operation opening in the same direction, and a fitting portion is provided which is fitted into the switch operation opening so that the convex switch operation portion is positioned at a position where it presses the on operation surface. Thereby, when the switch cover is attached to the switch operation opening, by fitting the fitting portion of the switch cover into the switch operation opening, the convex switch operation portion is positioned at a position where it abuts against the switch in the off position. For this reason, even if the operator does not specifically pay attention to the on operation of the switch, just by attaching the switch cover to the switch operation opening, the convex switch operation portion is adjusted to a position where it presses the on operation surface. As a result, the convex switch operation portion can be reliably brought into contact with the switch in the off position with high positioning accuracy, and the switch can be surely returned to the on position.

[0019] According to the invention according to claim 3, since the extending end surface of the extension portion of the switch cover is warped outward toward the back side in the mounting direction to the switch operation opening, in a state where the switch cover is completely mounted to the switch operation opening, the extending end portion is caught by the opening edge surface of the switch operation opening, and the switch cover can be prevented from easily detaching from the switch operation opening.

[0020] According to the invention according to claim 4, it has a rod-shaped portion inserted into an insertion hole formed in the housing, and a retaining portion provided at the tip of the rod-shaped portion including a portion having a diameter larger than that of the insertion hole. The rod-shaped portion is set to a length such that when the switch cover is attached to the switch operation opening, the fitting portion cannot be fitted into the switch operation opening with the convex switch operation portion facing the off operation surface. Accordingly, when attaching the switch cover to the opening for switch operation, while the switch cover can be moved with a certain degree of freedom with respect to the opening for switch operation via the connecting portion, the convex switch operation portion is surely arranged to face the on-operation surface instead of the off-operation surface. It is possible to prevent the malfunction that the switch cover is misassembled to the opening for switch operation and the on-operation surface cannot be pressed even when the switch cover is attached.

[0021] According to the invention according to claim 5, since the switch cover is made of an elastic material, the adjustment range of the contact state between the convex switch operation portion and the switch for displacing the convex switch operation portion into contact with the switch and displacing it to the on-position can be expanded by utilizing the elastic deformation of the convex switch operation portion. Therefore, the adjustment of the contact state between the convex switch operation portion and the switch for displacing the convex switch operation portion into contact with the switch and displacing it to the on-position can be easily performed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

[0023] An embodiment of a flowing water detection device according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. Note that the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments described below. Also, the drawings are schematic, and it should be noted that the dimensional relationships between elements, the ratios of the elements, etc. may be different from reality. Furthermore, there may be parts where the dimensional relationships and ratios between the drawings are different from each other. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flowing water detection device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the flowing water detection device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a detection box 30 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a view showing the inside of a housing 40 with a cover portion 42 of the housing 40 of the detection box 30 removed. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B near a switch cover 50 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the switch cover 50. FIG. 7 is a top view of the switch cover 50 in (a) and a side view of the switch cover 50 in (b). Note that FIG. 3 shows a state where the switch cover 50 is detached from the switch operation opening 45. A flowing water detection device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a device main body 10 connected to a water distribution pipe of an attachment target facility such as a sprinkler facility, and a detection box 30 provided inside with a detection unit 31 for detecting water flowing through the water distribution pipe. In the present embodiment, the flowing water detection device 1 is attached to a sprinkler facility (not shown). Note that if the flowing water detection device 1 is a fire extinguishing facility, it may be attached to other facilities other than the sprinkler facility.

[0024] <Regarding the device main body 10> As shown in Fig. 1, the apparatus main body 10 is provided with flange portions 11a and 11b connected to the water distribution pipes of the sprinkler facilities at both ends, and has a substantially cylindrical body 11 with a flow path formed inside. On the outer peripheral surface of the body 11, a pressure gauge 12 for measuring the water pressure of the water inlet side flow path (hereinafter referred to as the "primary side flow path") and the water outlet side flow path (hereinafter referred to as the "secondary side flow path") divided by the valve seat surface 25 in the body 11 is attached to a mounting pedestal 13, a drain valve 14 is attached to a drain port 15, and a box pedestal 16 to which a detection box 30 is attached is provided.

[0025] And inside the body 11, as shown in Fig. 2, a check valve mechanism 20 is provided. The check valve mechanism 20 has an arm 22 that is rotatable about a rotary shaft 21 provided on one end side, and a disk-shaped valve body 23 that is connected to the tip of the arm 22 and is rotatably provided within the apparatus main body 10. When the check valve mechanism 20 is in the valve closed state, the space between the valve body 23 and the valve seat surface 25 is sealed by an O-ring 24 for sealing provided on the valve body 23. When the check valve mechanism 20 is in the valve open state, the valve open state is maintained at a predetermined opening degree by the back protruding portion of the arm 22 abutting against the inner peripheral surface of the apparatus main body 10. Note that the check valve mechanism 20 is exemplified by using a disk-shaped valve body 23, but is not limited thereto, and any other valve body may be used as long as it is various check valve mechanisms used in the flowing water detection device 1. For example, a ball valve body may be used.

[0026] <Regarding the operation of the check valve mechanism 20> Here, the operation of the check valve mechanism 20 will be described. When the water pressure in the secondary side flow path of the body 11 drops due to the water discharge operation of the sprinkler, the valve body 23 opens and water flows from the primary side flow path to the secondary side flow path. On the other hand, when the water discharge of the sprinkler stops and the water pressure in the secondary side flow path of the body 11 rises, the valve body 23 closes and the flow of water from the primary side flow path to the secondary side flow path is blocked.

[0027] <Regarding the detection box 30> Next, the detection box 30 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the detection box 30 includes a detection unit 31 that detects the valve opening state of the valve body 23, a switch 34 for switching operations to an on position that enables the output of a detection signal from the detection unit 31 to a notification unit (not shown) such as an alarm device described later and an off position that cuts off the output of the detection signal, and a terminal block 35 for electrically connecting between the detection unit 31 and the notification unit so that the detection signal by the detection unit 31 can be output to the notification unit, which are provided inside the housing 40.

[0028] <Regarding the detection unit 31> The detection unit 31 includes a delay mechanism 32 and a limit switch 33. The delay mechanism 32 includes an operating plate 32a fixed to the rotating shaft 21 of the check valve mechanism 20 described above and rotated together with the rotating shaft 21, a rotary damper 32b that generates a rotational reaction force in one direction, and a rotating plate 32d that is rotatably attached to the rotating shaft 32c of the rotary damper 32b at its central portion and has one end portion bent in an L shape and formed to be engageable with the operating plate 32a. A weight 32e is fixed to the rotating plate 32d, and a force for rotating toward the limit switch 33 side is applied by the weight of this weight 32e.

[0029] The limit switch 33 is configured to operate by the rotational movement of the rotating plate 32d. That is, when the valve is closed, a rotational force is applied to the operating plate 32a via the rotating shaft 21, and the rotating plate 32d having one end portion bent in an L shape engaged with the operating plate 32a is rotated so that the tip end portion is separated from the limit switch 33 against the self-weight of the weight 32e. That is, when the valve is closed, the rotating plate 32d moves away from the limit switch 33 and the limit switch 33 is in an off state. On one hand, when the valve is opened, due to the weight of the weight, the rotary plate 32d is rotated in a direction approaching the limit switch 33 via the rotary damper 32b. When the engagement with the operating plate 32a is disengaged, the operating plate 32a rotates in the return direction of the rotary damper 32b and abuts against the limit switch 33. That is, when the valve is opened, the rotary plate 32d abuts against the limit switch 33 and the limit switch 33 is turned on. When the limit switch 33 is turned on in this way, a detection signal indicating the valve open state is output from the detection unit 31 to the notification unit.

[0030] <Regarding switch 34> The switch 34 is for switching operations to an on position that enables the output of a detection signal from the detection unit 31 to the notification unit and an off position that blocks the output of the detection signal from the detection unit 31 to the notification unit. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, this switch 34 uses a so-called rocker switch, and the on operation surface 34a and the off operation surface 34b are arranged side by side in a straight line.

[0031] <Regarding terminal block 35> The terminal block 35 electrically connects the detection unit 31 and the notification unit via a switching circuit (not shown) including the switch 34. In addition, it has a plurality of connection terminals for connecting other external devices such as terminals of security companies other than the detection unit 31 and the notification unit.

[0032] <Regarding housing 40> As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the housing 40 has a base portion 41 where the detection unit 31, the switch 34, and the terminal block 35 are arranged, and a cover portion 42 that is detachably attached to the base portion 41 while securing an internal accommodation space for accommodating the detection unit 31 and the like arranged on the base portion 41.

[0033] The base portion 41 is a rectangular plate-like member whose outer shape conforms to the opening of the cover portion 42, and is a portion fixed to the box pedestal 16 of the apparatus main body 10. This base portion 41 is configured such that each device housed in the detection box 30, such as the detection unit 31 described above, is arranged on the flat surface.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3, the cover portion 42 generally has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes a top wall 43 and a peripheral side wall 44 erected along the edge surface of the top wall 43, and is a box-shaped cover with an opening on the surface facing the top wall 43. This cover portion 42 is fitted so that the inner edge surface 42a of the opening overlaps with the outer peripheral edge surface 41a of the base portion 41 and is attached to the base portion 41. That is, the cover portion 42 forms the accommodation space of the detection box 30 and functions as a lid. Therefore, when maintaining the devices provided in the detection box 30, the operator needs to remove the cover portion 42 from the base portion 41.

[0035] In addition, an opening 45 for switch operation is formed in the cover portion 42 so that the switch 34 can be operated from the outside of the cover portion 41 attached to the base portion 41. This opening 45 for switch operation is an opening formed in the wall surface of the cover portion 42 facing the operation surfaces 34a and 34b of the switch 34 arranged on the base portion 41 and having a size that allows the switch to be operated from the outside of the cover portion 42. More specifically, the opening 45 for switch operation is a rectangular opening whose vertical and horizontal dimensions are set to be slightly larger than the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the switch 34, which is a rocker switch. That is, it is more preferable that the size of the opening 45 for switch operation is set to the minimum size necessary for the operator to insert a finger into the opening 45 for switch operation and operate the switch. Note that the size and shape of the opening 45 for switch operation are not limited to those illustrated in this embodiment, and may be appropriately set according to the shape of the housing 40 and the like.

[0036] And the flow detection device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided with a switch cover 50 for closing the opening 45 for switch operation.

[0037] <Regarding the switch cover 50> Here, the switch cover 50 will be described in detail. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the switch cover 50 is detachably provided in the switch operation opening 45. When it is detached from the switch operation opening 45, an operator can switch the switch 34 inside the housing 40 through the switch operation opening 45 from the outside of the housing 40. When it is attached to the switch operation opening 45, it is provided with a convex switch operation portion 51 that abuts against the switch 34 in the off position and displaces the switch 34 to the on position. In this embodiment, the switch cover 50 is made of an elastic material such as a rubber material, and a black one which is the color of the rubber material itself is used. Note that, as the material of the switch cover 50, other materials than the elastic material may be used.

[0038] This switch cover 50 has a cover body 52, a fitting portion 53 fitted into the switch operation opening 45, a connecting portion 55 connected to the cover portion 42 of the housing 40, and a gripping operation portion 56 which is a portion that an operator grips and operates when detaching and attaching to / from the switch operation opening 45.

[0039] The cover body 52 has a plate shape with a substantially rectangular outer shape, and has a fitting portion arrangement wall portion 52a provided with a fitting portion 53 fitted into the switch operation opening 45 in a direction in which the on operation surface 34a and the off operation surface 34b of the switch 34 are arranged in a straight line (hereinafter referred to as the “on / off operation surface arrangement direction”), and a connecting portion arrangement wall portion 52b provided with the connecting portion 55.

[0040] The fitting portion 53 has an extending portion 54 extending from the base end portion of the convex switch operation portion 51 to the side facing the off operation surface 34b. This fitting portion 53 is a portion fitted into the switch operation opening 45 so that the width from one end surface of the convex switch operation portion 51 to the extending end surface 54a of the extending portion 54 is made substantially equal to the opening width of the switch operation opening 45 in the same direction, and the convex switch operation portion 51 is positioned at a position where it presses the on operation surface 34a. Further, the width of the fitting portion 53 in the direction orthogonal to the on-off operation surface alignment direction is set to be substantially equal to the opening width of the switch operation opening 45 in that direction. In this way, since the size of the fitting portion 53 in its surface direction is substantially equal to the size of the switch operation opening 45, it can fit exactly into the switch operation opening 45 and will not fall off unless an external force is applied.

[0041] The convex switch operation portion 51 is provided to protrude from the surface of the fitting portion arrangement wall portion 52a on the side where it is attached to the switch operation opening 45, and is set such that the width in the on-off operation surface alignment direction is substantially the same as or smaller than the width of the on-operation surface 34a of the switch 34. That is, the convex switch operation portion 51 is sized to be able to press only the on-operation surface 34a of the switch 34.

[0042] Further, the protruding height of the convex switch operation portion 51 from the surface of the fitting portion arrangement wall portion 52a is adjusted to a dimension such that in a state where the switch cover 50 is completely attached to the switch operation opening 45, the switch 34 in the off position can be pressed to be displaced to the on position. Here, in a general rocker switch, as described above, the on-operation surface 34a and the off-operation surface 34b are arranged in a straight line, and when the on-operation surface 34a is pushed in, the off-operation surface 34b pops out, and when the off-operation surface 34b is pushed in, the on-operation surface 34a pops out, and on / off switching is performed like a seesaw. Since the rocker switch returns to its original position until the on-operation surface 34a or the off-operation surface 34b is pushed in by a certain amount or more, in this embodiment, the height of the convex switch operation portion 51 is adjusted so that the switch 34 can be surely pushed in to the extent that it does not return. Regarding the protruding height of the convex switch operation portion 51, in this embodiment, since an elastic material is used as the switch cover 50, it can be adjusted by providing a width by an amount that elastically collapses in the contact state between the convex switch operation portion 51 for displacing the switch 34 from the off position to the on position and the switch 34. That is, even when the convex switch operation portion 51 is in an elastically crushed state and in contact with the switch 34 with the switch cover 50 completely mounted in the switch operation opening 45, it is acceptable. The amount of crushing may be appropriately adjusted according to the material of the switch cover 50. In addition, if the switch 34 can be turned on by the convex switch operation portion 45, it is acceptable that the convex switch operation portion 51 is in contact with the switch without being elastically crushed, or in a state separated from the switch 34, with the switch cover 50 completely mounted in the switch operation opening 45.

[0043] The extended portion 54 is provided to protrude with a predetermined thickness on the surface of the fitting portion arrangement wall portion 52a of the cover main body 52 on the side to be mounted in the switch operation opening 45, and the thickness of the extended end face 54a is set to be substantially equal to the width of the opening edge face 45a of the switch operation opening 45. This extended portion 54 has a shape in which its extended end face 54a is warped outward toward the back side in the mounting direction to the switch operation opening 45, and is configured to be caught by the opening edge face 45a of the switch operation opening 45. More specifically, the extended portion 54 has a locking piece portion 54b protruding in the mounting direction so that the extended end face 54a at the end of the extended portion 54 is warped outward toward the back side in the mounting direction. This locking piece portion 54b is configured to be locked to the cover portion 42 in a state warped from the opening edge face 45a of the switch operation opening 45 toward the inner surface side of the cover portion 42 when the switch cover 50 is mounted in the switch operation opening 45. When the switch cover 50 is mounted in the switch operation opening 45 by fitting its fitting portion 53, the locking piece portion 54b is made to be caught by the opening edge of the switch operation opening 45, so that the switch cover 50 is more difficult to come off from the cover portion 42.

[0044] The connecting portion 55 is provided to protrude on the surface of the connecting portion arrangement wall portion 52b on the side to be mounted in the switch operation opening 45. Since the connecting portion arranging wall portion 52b is arranged to face the outer surface of the cover portion 42 of the housing 40, an insertion hole 44a through which the connecting portion 55 is inserted is formed in the cover portion 42.

[0045] The connecting portion 55 has a rod-shaped portion 55a inserted into the insertion hole 44a formed in the housing 40, and a retaining portion 55b provided at the tip of the rod-shaped portion 55a including a portion having a diameter larger than that of the insertion hole 44a. Note that the insertion hole 44a formed in the cover portion 42 is set to have a hole diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the rod-shaped portion 55a of the connecting portion 55.

[0046] The rod-shaped portion 55a is set to a length such that when the switch cover 50 is attached to the switch operation opening 45, the fitting portion 53 cannot be fitted into the switch operation opening 45 in a posture where the convex switch operation portion 51 faces the off operation surface 34b. That is, even when the switch cover 50 is in a posture inverted 180 degrees with respect to the normal posture when attached to the switch operation opening 45, since the fitting portion 53 is substantially rectangular, it can be fitted into the switch operation opening 45. Therefore, the rod-shaped portion 55a is set to a length such that when the switch cover 50 is attached to the switch operation opening 45 in a wrong posture, the fitting portion 53 cannot be fitted into the switch operation opening 45 when the switch cover 50 is inverted 180 degrees with respect to the normal attachment posture.

[0047] That is, the length of the rod-shaped portion 55a is preferably set to the minimum necessary length that can separate the switch cover 50 from the switch operation opening 45 to such an extent that it does not interfere with the operation of the switch 34 in a state where the switch cover 50 is detached from the switch operation opening 45. By making the rod-shaped portion 55a such a minimum necessary length, rigidity for maintaining a linear state is ensured although it has elasticity. Therefore, when the switch cover 50 is inverted with respect to the normal mounting posture, the fitting portion 53 is disposed at a position away from the switch operation opening 45, and even if an attempt is made to fit the fitting portion 53 into the switch operation opening 45 forcibly from that position, the length of the rod-shaped portion 55a is insufficient, and the fitting portion 53 cannot be fitted into the switch operation opening 45.

[0048] The retaining portion 55b has a conical shape with a gradually decreasing diameter toward the tip side. Therefore, when connecting the switch cover 50 to the cover portion 42 of the housing 40 via the connecting portion 55, it is inserted into the insertion hole 44a from the tip portion of the retaining portion 55b having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the insertion hole 44a of the cover portion 42. By doing so, when a portion having a diameter larger than the diameter of the insertion hole 44a passes through the insertion hole 44a while being elastically deformed, and when the retaining portion 55b completely passes through the insertion hole 44a, the elastically deformed portion is restored to its original state larger than the diameter of the insertion hole 44a. In this way, the retaining portion 55b serves as a locking portion, and the connected state between the switch cover 50 and the cover portion 42 is maintained.

[0049] The knob operation portion 56 is a portion projecting in a flange shape on the outer surface side of the cover main body 52. The knob operation portion 56 is continuously provided from one end side to the other end side in the on-off operation surface alignment direction of the cover main body 52. Therefore, the knob operation portion 56 not only functions as an operation portion of the switch cover 50 but also functions as a reinforcing rib for increasing the rigidity of the cover main body 52 made of an elastic material.

[0050] <Handling Procedure of Switch Cover 50 during Maintenance Work and Switching Operation by Switch Cover 50> Next, with reference to FIG. 8, the handling procedure of the switch cover 50 during maintenance work and the switch switching operation by the switch cover 50 will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the handling procedure of the switch cover 50 during maintenance work and the switch switching operation by the switch cover 50. First, at the start of the maintenance work, the operator detaches the switch cover 50 provided on the cover portion 42 of the housing 40 of the detection box 30 from the switch operation opening 45. In this operation, when the operator pinches the grip operation portion 56 of the switch cover 50 with a finger and pulls it forward, the locking piece portion 54b of the switch cover 50 bends inward of the switch operation opening 45 while slidingly contacting the opening edge surface 45a of the switch operation opening 45, and the locked state of the switch cover 50 is released. In the state where the locking is released, the fitting portion 53 comes out of the switch operation opening 45, and thus the switch cover 50 is detached from the switch operation opening 45. Note that even when the switch cover 50 is detached from the switch operation opening 45 in this way, since the switch cover 50 is connected to the cover portion 42 of the housing 40 by the connecting portion 55, the switch cover 50 will not be left somewhere by mistake. When the switch cover 50 is detached from the switch operation opening 45, the switch 34 can be faced through the switch operation opening 45 from the outside of the housing 40. Note that the switch 34 is in a state where it has been switched to the on position by the convex switch operation portion 51 of the switch cover 50 when the switch cover 50 is attached to the switch operation opening 45. Therefore, immediately after the switch cover 50 is detached from the switch operation opening 45, the switch 34 is in the on position state.

[0051] Next, the operator performs an operation to switch the switch 34 in the on position to the off position. In this operation, the operator inserts a finger into the housing 40 through the switch operation opening 45 from the outside of the housing 40 of the detection box 30 and presses the off operation surface 34b of the switch 34 to switch the switch 34 to the off position. That is, in this operation, without performing the complicated operation of removing the cover portion 42 sized to surround the entire accommodation space of the detection box 30, the switch cover 50 sized to be easily removed by pinching with a finger is simply detached from the switch operation opening 45, and the switch 34 can be switched from on to off. By switching the switch 34 from on to off in this way, during maintenance work, a detection signal will not be erroneously output from the detection unit 31 to the notification unit, and an alarm or the like will not be notified by the notification unit.

[0052] When the maintenance work on the equipment to which the flowing water detection device 1 is to be attached is completed, the operator attaches the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45. In this operation, the operator pinches the gripping operation portion 56 of the switch cover 50 and fits the fitting portion 53 into the switch operation opening 45. When fitting the fitting portion 53 of the switch cover 50 into the switch operation opening 45, the switch cover 50 cannot fit the fitting portion 53 into the switch operation opening 45 in a posture inverted with respect to the normal posture by the connecting portion 55, so the fitting portion 53 can be surely attached to the switch operation opening 45 in the normal posture. Further, when the operator attaches the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45 while inserting the rod-shaped portion 55a of the connecting portion 55 straight into the insertion hole 44a of the housing 40, the switch cover 50 can be attached to the switch operation opening 45 while using the rod-shaped portion 55a as a guide. Here, when the switch cover 50 is not attached to the switch operation opening 45, an unnatural state in which the switch cover 50 hangs from the housing of the detection box 30 via the connecting portion 55 will catch the operator's eye, so the operator can surely attach the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45. In addition, in order to surely attach the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45, it is preferable to make the color of the switch cover 50 different from the color of the housing 40 to make it conspicuous. Since the housing 40 is often painted red for use as fire-fighting equipment, it is more preferable that the switch cover 50 be a color that stands out against red. In this embodiment, the switch cover 50 is the original black color of the rubber material and is a color that stands out sufficiently against the red color of the housing 40. However, for example, if it is made blue, which is the complementary color of red, it can be made even more prominent. Also, since the switch cover 50 is connected to the cover portion 42 of the housing 40, in other words, since the switch cover 50 is connected to the cover portion 42 at a predetermined position attached to the base portion 41, the switch cover 50 will not be left somewhere and lost during maintenance work.

[0053] When the fitting portion 53 of the switch cover 50 is fitted into the switch operation opening 45, the convex switch operation portion 51 abuts against the switch 34 in the off position and displaces the switch 34 to the on position. Here, the switch cover 50 is fixed in a state where the fitting portion 53 is just fitted into the switch operation opening 45. The state where the fitting portion 53 is just fitted into the switch operation opening 45 means that the extending end face 54a of the extending portion 54 is caught by the opening edge face 45a of the switch operation opening 45 in its warped shape, and the surface of the fitting portion arrangement wall portion 52a is in contact with the outer wall surface of the cover portion 42. If the switch cover 50 is not fitted until this state, the switch cover 50 will be in a state of floating from the cover body 52, which is unnatural. Therefore, the operator can naturally and firmly fit the switch cover into the switch operation opening 45, thereby reliably displacing the switch 34 to the on position. More specifically, the convex switch operation portion 51 presses the on operation surface 34a that protrudes toward the switch operation opening 45 by the seesaw operation to displace the switch 34 to the on position. In this way, when the operator attaches the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45, the switch 34 is returned to the on position. Note that before attaching the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45, the operator should use his / her finger to return the switch 34 to the ON position, and then attach the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45, so as to perform a double switching operation to turn on the switch 34. That is, even if the operator forgets to return the switch 34 to the ON position after the maintenance is completed, the switch 34 will be surely returned to the ON position by attaching the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45.

[0054] When the switch 34 is switched from the OFF position to the ON position in this way, the detection unit 31 in the detection box 30 becomes capable of outputting a detection signal in the valve-open state to the notification unit, and in the event of a fire, evacuation instructions and the like can be notified via the notification unit.

[0055] <Effect of the Embodiment> As described above, according to the flowing water detection device 1 according to the embodiment, on the cover portion 42 of the housing 40, a switch operation opening 45 is formed through which the switch 34 can be operated from outside the cover portion 42. The switch cover 50 is detachably provided at the switch operation opening 45, and when attached to the switch operation opening 45, it has a convex switch operation portion 51 that abuts against the switch 34 in the OFF position and displaces this switch 34 to the ON position, and a connecting portion 55 that maintains the connection state with the housing even when detached from the switch operation opening. Thereby, when the operator performs maintenance work on the sprinkler equipment, which is the equipment to which the flowing water detection device 1 is attached, the operator removes the switch cover 50, which is a part of the cover portion 42, from the switch operation opening 45, and switches the switch 34 to the OFF position through the switch operation opening 45 from outside the cover portion 42. Also, when the maintenance work on the sprinkler equipment is completed, the operator must not forget to attach the switch cover 50, which catches the eye in an unnatural state of being detached from the switch operation opening 45 while being connected to the cover portion 42 via the connecting portion 55, to the switch operation opening 45. When the switch cover 50 is attached to the switch operation opening 45, the convex switch operation portion 51 abuts against the switch 34 in the off position, and the switch 34 is displaced to the on position. Therefore, before starting the maintenance work on the equipment to which the flowing water detection device 1 is to be attached, by simply detaching the switch cover 50 from the switch operation opening 45 of the cover portion 42, the switch 34 can be operated to the off position through the switch operation opening 45. After the maintenance work is completed, by simply attaching the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45 of the cover portion 42, the switch 34 can be surely returned to the on position. As a result, with a simple device structure, the maintainability can be improved, and mistakes in the maintenance work can be reduced.

[0056] Also, according to the flowing water detection device 1 according to the embodiment, the switch 34 is a rocker switch in which the on operation surface 34a and the off operation surface 34b are arranged side by side in a straight line. The switch cover 50 has an extension portion 54 extending in a straight line direction from the base end portion of the convex switch operation portion 51 to the side facing the off operation surface 34b, and the width from one end surface of the convex switch operation portion 51 to the extending end surface 54a of the extension portion 54 is made substantially equal to the opening width of the switch operation opening 45 in the same direction, and a fitting portion 53 is provided which is fitted into the switch operation opening 45 so as to be positioned at a position where the convex switch operation portion 51 presses the on operation surface 34a. Thereby, when the switch cover 50 is attached to the switch operation opening 45, by fitting the fitting portion 53 of the switch cover 50 into the switch operation opening 45, the convex switch operation portion 51 is positioned and arranged at a position where it abuts against the switch 34 in the off position. Therefore, the convex switch operation portion 51 can be accurately positioned to abut against the switch 34 in the off position, and the switch 34 can be returned to the on position.

[0057] Further, according to the flowing water detection device 1 according to the embodiment, since the extending end surface 54a of the extending portion 54 of the switch cover 50 is warped outward toward the back side in the mounting direction to the switch operation opening, in a state where the switch cover is completely mounted to the switch operation opening 45, the extending end surface 54a is caught by the opening edge surface 45a of the switch operation opening 45, and the switch cover 50 can be prevented from detaching from the switch operation opening 45.

[0058] Further, according to the flowing water detection device 1 according to the embodiment, it has a rod-shaped portion 55a inserted into the insertion hole 44a formed in the cover portion 42, and a retaining portion 55b provided at the tip of the rod-shaped portion 55a including a portion having a diameter larger than that of the insertion hole 44a. When the rod-shaped portion 55a mounts the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45, the fitting portion 53 cannot be fitted to the switch operation opening 45 in a posture where the convex switch operation portion 51 faces the off operation surface 34b, and is set to a length. Thereby, when mounting the switch cover 50 to the switch operation opening 45, while the switch cover 50 is moved with a certain degree of freedom with respect to the switch operation opening 45 via the connecting portion 55, the convex switch operation portion 51 is surely arranged to face the on operation surface 34a instead of the off operation surface 34b. Therefore, the switch cover 50 can be mounted to the switch operation opening 45 without being misassembled.

[0059] Further, according to the flowing water detection device 1 according to the embodiment, since the switch cover 50 is made of an elastic material, the adjustment range of the contact state between the convex switch operation portion 51 and the switch 34 for displacing the convex switch operation portion 51 into contact with the switch 34 and displacing it to the on position can be expanded by utilizing the elastic deformation of the convex switch operation portion 51. Therefore, the adjustment of the contact state between the convex switch operation portion 51 and the switch 34 for displacing the convex switch operation portion 51 into contact with the switch 34 and displacing it to the on position can be easily performed.

[0060] As described above, embodiments of the present disclosure have been explained. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit thereof.

[0061] In the above embodiment, the housing 40 has a plate-shaped base portion 41 and a box-shaped cover portion 42, and the detection box 30 is opened by removing the box-shaped cover portion 42 from the base portion 41. However, any other configuration may be used as long as the housing 40 has a structure that allows maintenance of the equipment housed inside by opening the lid. For example, the base portion 41 may be box-shaped, the cover portion 42 may be a plate-shaped lid, and the switch operation opening 45 may be provided in the box-shaped base portion 41.

[0062] Also, in the above embodiment, the connecting portion 55 is exemplified as being rod-shaped. However, as long as the switch cover can be connected to the housing, for example, the connecting portion may be chain-shaped.

[0063] Also, in the above embodiment, a rocker switch is used as the switch, and when the switch cover 50 is attached to the switch operation opening 45, the convex switch operation portion 51 abuts on the switch 34 in the off position and displaces the switch to the on position. However, other switches 34 can also be used. For example, when a slide switch is used as the switch 34, the switch cover 50 may be configured to be slidably moved while being attached to the switch operation opening 45. When such a configuration is adopted, the convex switch operation portion 51 slides while sliding in contact with the slider, which is the operation portion of the slide switch, as the switch cover 50 slides when the switch cover 50 is attached to the switch operation opening 45, and the slider can be slid from the off position to the on position.

[0064] Each embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The above embodiments may be omitted, substituted, or changed in various forms without departing from the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

Description of Symbols

[0065] 1 Flow detection device 10 Device main body 11 Body 11a, 11b Flange part 12 Pressure gauge 13 Mounting pedestal 14 Drain valve 15 Drain outlet 16 Box pedestal 20 Check valve mechanism 21 Rotating shaft 22 Arm 23 Valve body 24 O-ring 25 Valve seat surface 30 Detection box 31 Detection part 32 Delay mechanism 32a Actuating plate 32b Rotary damper 32c Rotating shaft 32d Rotating plate 32e Weight 33 Limit switch 34 Switch 34a ON operation surface 34b OFF operation surface 35 Terminal block 40 Housing 41 Base part 41a Outer peripheral edge surface 42 Cover part 42a Inner edge surface of opening 43 Ceiling wall 44 Peripheral side wall 44a Insertion hole 45 Opening for switch operation 45a Edge surface of opening 50 Switch cover 51 Convex switch operation part 52 Cover body 52a Wall part for fitting part arrangement 52b Wall part for connecting part arrangement 53 Fitting part 54 Extension part 54a Extended end face 54b Locking piece part 55 Connecting part 55a Rod-shaped part 55b Anti-disengagement part 56 Knob operation part

Claims

1. A water flow detection device provided with a valve body of a check valve mechanism and a detection unit for detecting the valve open state of the valve body, and having a switch in a housing for switching an operation to an on position that enables output of a detection signal from the detection unit to a notification unit and an off position that cuts off the output of the detection signal, wherein a switch operation opening for operably operating the switch from outside the housing is formed in the housing, a switch cover is detachably provided in the switch operation opening, and when attached to the switch operation opening, has a convex switch operation portion that abuts against the switch in the off position and displaces the switch to the on position, and a connecting portion that maintains a connection state with the housing even in a state of being detached from the switch operation opening. The water flow detection device is characterized by having the switch cover.

2. The switch is a rocker switch in which an on operation surface and an off operation surface are arranged side by side in a straight line, the switch cover has an extending portion extending in the direction of the straight line from the base end portion of the convex switch operation portion toward the side facing the off operation surface, and the width from one end surface of the convex switch operation portion to the extending end surface of the extending portion is made substantially equal to the opening width of the switch operation opening in the same direction so that the convex switch operation portion is positioned at a position pressing the on operation surface. The water flow detection device according to claim 1, further comprising a fitting portion fitted into the switch operation opening.

3. The water flow detection device according to claim 2, wherein an extending end surface of the extending portion of the switch cover is warped outward toward the back side in the mounting direction to the switch operation opening.

4. The connecting portion has a rod-shaped portion inserted into an insertion hole formed in the housing, and a retaining portion provided at the tip of the rod-shaped portion including a portion having a diameter larger than that of the insertion hole, the rod-shaped portion is set to a length such that when the switch cover is attached to the switch operation opening, the fitting portion cannot be fitted into the switch operation opening in a posture where the convex switch operation portion faces the off operation surface. The water flow detection device according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The switch cover is made of an elastic material. The water flow detection device according to claims 1 to 3.

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