Pipe connection structure

Abstract

To provide an expandable pipe joint having excellent earthquake resistance, capable of easily and quickly carrying out construction work for installing or repairing pipes.SOLUTION: An expandable pipe joint 1 according to this invention includes a universal pipe joint 2 for a pipe to be arranged in a range of turning and bending angle required in pipe connection work in an arbitrary direction, and an expansion joint 3 of which the end on one side is fixed to either one end or the other end of the universal pipe joint 2 and into the end on the other side, as a socket part, of which the pipe is inserted in a removable manner, thus enabling the length in the expansion direction of a pipe passage to be adjusted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an expandable pipe joint used when connecting various pipes as fluid passages.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, ventilation devices for indoor ventilation are installed inside ceilings or walls, etc., and are connected to an external exhaust port attached to the wall of a building via pipes. At this time, since the position of the connection exhaust port on the pipe side and the position of the external exhaust port may not match, the connection exhaust port and the external exhaust port are connected while adjusting the pipe path using an elbow pipe or a bellows pipe.

[0003] An elbow pipe is effective as a pipe joint for indoor ventilation because there are no irregularities on the inner surface that obstruct the flow of air. However, since it is a pipe joint with a fixed bending angle, fine adjustment of the angle is not possible, and there are cases where the connection exhaust port and the external exhaust port cannot be connected with only the elbow pipe. On the other hand, a bellows pipe is effective as a pipe joint capable of finely adjusting the angle because it has flexible flexibility in any direction. However, since there are fine irregularities on the inner wall surface of the pipe, the ventilation resistance becomes high, and smooth circulation of indoor air may not be expected. In particular, when using a bellows pipe for the external piping of a range hood that exhausts contaminated air generated during cooking outdoors, it is not preferable because the oil and fat components contained in the contaminated air tend to accumulate in the concave portions of the pipe.

[0004] Also, regarding the pipes for domestic wastewater in ordinary houses and high-rise houses, similar to the ventilation pipes, they are installed using narrow portions between the inner wall and the outer wall of the building or narrow portions between the floor layer and the ceiling layer. And such pipes are required to take a predetermined gradient (2% or more) defined by the Building Standards Act in an extremely narrow space.

[0005] However, it is difficult to achieve the gradient specified by the Building Standards Act in a narrow space, and in many cases, many pipes cannot set the specified gradient. In some cases, the pipes will be arranged in a substantially parallel state. Therefore, in such houses, it is necessary to clean the inside of the pipes about once a year using a high-pressure washer or the like.

[0006] In addition, there are cases of irregularities in realizing the specified gradient in appearance by forcibly bending a straight pipe. Such improper pipe connections are a problem because the durability of the pipe path deteriorates significantly due to stagnant substances and excessive loads over a long period. This problem occurs not only in the pipes inside the house but also in the pipes from the house to the main sewer pipe.

[0007] As a means for solving the above problems, Patent Document 1 discloses an angle-adjustable joint rotating joint. Specifically, Patent Document 1 describes an A-joint portion in which a tubular A-joint and an inner spherical body are integrally formed, and an outer spherical body that slidably fits concentrically with the outer peripheral surface of the inner spherical body and a B-joint portion in which a tubular B-joint are integrally formed, which are joined in a sliding joint manner, and the A-joint portion is made to be able to swing slightly from the specified shape.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] However, in the joint (conventional joint) described in Patent Document 1 mentioned above, as the A joint (straight pipe portion) is described as "capable of slightly swinging movement from the specified shape", the A joint is configured to be swingable within a range of an inclination angle of 30° with respect to the central axis of the B joint (straight pipe portion) around the center point of the inner spherical body. That is, since it is impossible to make the bending angle between the straight pipe portions larger than 30°, it is still difficult to simply and quickly perform the installation work and repair work of the piping in an extremely narrow space.

[0010] Also, when performing the installation work and repair work of the piping using the conventional joint described in Patent Document 1 or existing joints such as elbow pipes and bellows pipes, it is necessary to adjust the alignment of the pipes, the arrangement position and inclination angle of the pipes to be connected, etc. while actually checking with at least two workers.

[0011] Furthermore, when performing the installation work and repair work of the piping using conventional joints, elbow pipes, or bellows pipes, it is not possible to easily absorb the expansion and contraction of the piping path due to shaking or vibration such as an earthquake, so the coupling strength with respect to the expansion and contraction direction is extremely weak. Therefore, when a large shaking or vibration is applied, the fitting portion of the piping may be broken or detached, and in some cases, the fluid flowing inside the piping may leak to the outside.

[0012] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an expandable pipe joint that can easily and quickly perform the installation work and repair work of the piping and has excellent earthquake resistance.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0013] The expandable pipe joint according to the present invention includes a flexible pipe joint for arranging the pipe in an arbitrary direction within the range of the turning and bending angles required in the pipe connection work, and one end of one side is fixed to either one of the one end or the other end of the flexible pipe joint, and the length in the expansion and contraction direction of the pipe path can be adjusted by inserting the pipe into and removing it from the receiving port portion which is the other end side in a detachable manner.

[0014] Specifically, the flexible pipe joint includes a first connection structure portion including a first straight pipe portion that is a cylindrical straight pipe, and a first fitting portion that is spherical and joined to one end of the first straight pipe portion and has a predetermined spherical curvature on its outer surface. Further, the flexible pipe joint includes a second connection structure portion including a second straight pipe portion that is a cylindrical straight pipe, and a second fitting portion that is hemispherical and joined to one end of the second straight pipe portion, has the same spherical curvature on its inner surface as the outer surface of the first fitting portion, and further has the same inner diameter as the outer diameter of the first fitting portion. Furthermore, the flexible pipe joint includes an annular reinforcing support body that has the same spherical curvature on its inner peripheral surface as the outer surface of the first fitting portion and can be screwed to the peripheral edge portion of the end of the second fitting portion so as to cover the first fitting portion.

[0015] In addition, the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are each formed to have a larger diameter than the first straight pipe portion and the second straight pipe portion, and form an interlocking fitting portion that interlocks with each other in a state where a part of the spherical surface of the first fitting portion is accommodated inside the second fitting portion. When the interlocking fitting portion is slid in the fitting state, the tip of the second straight pipe portion can turn within the range about the central axis of the first straight pipe portion.

[0016] The expansion joint also includes a rubber ring that is slidably in close contact with the outer surface of the connected pipe and seals between the inside and the outside of the pipe. The expansion joint has a flexible pipe insertion port portion that is inserted into an opening formed in either one end or the other end of the flexible pipe joint, and a pipe receiving port portion into which the pipe is inserted, and the pipe receiving port portion is formed to have a larger inner diameter than the flexible pipe insertion port portion. Further, a stepped surface is formed between the flexible pipe insertion port portion and the pipe receiving port portion due to the difference in inner diameter.

[0017] According to the present invention, by using the expandable and contractible pipe joint configured as described above, even in the installation work or repair work of pipes in an extremely narrow space, while satisfying the gradient specified by the Building Standards Act, the pipe connection work can be realized simply and quickly. Further, when performing the installation work or repair work of pipes using conventional joints, elbow pipes, or bellows pipes, it was necessary for at least two workers to actually check and perform alignment of the pipes, adjustment work such as the arrangement position and inclination angle of the pipes to be connected, etc. However, due to the simplification of the pipe connection work, even a single worker can easily and quickly complete the above adjustment work and the like. Furthermore, the expandable and contractible pipe joint according to the present invention is such that the flexible pipe joint absorbs the deviation in the rotational direction of the pipe path due to shaking or vibration such as an earthquake, and the expansion and contraction joint absorbs the deviation in the expansion and contraction direction of the pipe path due to shaking or vibration such as an earthquake. Due to these interactions, it functions as a joint for a seismic-resistant structure pipe path that absorbs deviations in the pipe path in all directions, and thus excellent seismic resistance can be obtained.

[0018] Further, in the expandable and contractible pipe joint according to the present invention, the first straight pipe portion and the second straight pipe portion may be joined eccentrically with respect to the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion, respectively.

[0019] Further, in the expandable and contractible pipe joint according to the present invention, it is desirable that the angle formed by the straight line connecting the common spherical center portion in the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion and the central axis of the first straight pipe portion, and the central axis, be within the range of 38° or more and 68° or less.

[0020] Further, in the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention, among the straight lines connecting the common spherical center portion in the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion and the central axis of the first straight pipe portion, a straight line within the range of an angle of 38° or more and 68° or less formed between those straight lines and the central axis is included, and a plane orthogonal to the plane formed by the spherical center portion and the central axis of the first straight pipe portion, and a plane formed by the inner wall of the first fitting portion is used as a reference plane. And it is desirable that the end peripheral portion of the first fitting portion is formed at a position separated by a length of 15% or more and 30% or less of the diameter of the reference plane in a direction in which the surface area of the first fitting portion increases with reference to the reference plane.

[0021] Further, in the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention, it is desirable that the inner diameter of the first fitting portion is set to be longer within a range of 1.2 times or more and 2.0 times or less than the inner diameter of the first straight pipe portion.

[0022] Further, in the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention, the end peripheral portion of the second fitting portion includes a straight line within the range of an angle of 38° or more and 68° or less formed between those straight lines and the central axis among the straight lines connecting the common spherical center portion in the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion and the central axis of the second straight pipe portion, and is formed at a position where a plane orthogonal to the plane formed by the spherical center portion and the central axis of the second straight pipe portion intersects with the spherical portion of the second fitting portion.

Advantages of the Invention

[0023] According to the telescopic pipe joint of the present invention, piping installation work and repair work can be carried out simply and quickly, and excellent earthquake resistance can be obtained.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited by this embodiment.

[0026] <<Overall Structure of Telescopic Pipe Joint>> Figs. 1 to 4 are diagrams showing specific examples of the basic structure of the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention. Specifically, Fig. 1 is a side view showing the configuration of a specific example of the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention. Further, Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a specific example of the first connection structure portion constituting the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention, (A) is a cross-sectional view, and (B) is a top view. Further, Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of a specific example of the second connection structure portion constituting the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention, (A) is a side view, (B) is a top view, and (C) is a diagram in which the fitting protrusion is developed in a planar shape. Further, Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the first connection structure portion and the second connection structure portion are combined.

[0027] The telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment includes a first connection structure portion 11, a second connection structure portion 12, a reinforcing support 13, and a telescopic structure portion 14, and the telescopic structure portion 14 is fixed in a state of being connected to either one of the first connection structure portion 11 and the second connection structure portion 12. This telescopic pipe joint 1 functions as a flexible pipe joint 2 for arranging pipes in an arbitrary direction by the structure formed by the first connection structure portion 11, the second connection structure portion 12, and the reinforcing support 13, and the telescopic structure portion 14 functions as a telescopic joint 3 capable of adjusting the length in the telescopic direction of the pipe path. That is, this telescopic pipe joint 1 is such that the flexible pipe joint 2 absorbs the deviation in the rotational direction of the pipe path due to shaking or vibration such as an earthquake, and the telescopic joint 3 absorbs the deviation in the telescopic direction of the pipe path due to an earthquake or the like. Due to these interactions, it functions as a joint for a seismic-resistant structure pipe path that absorbs deviations in the pipe path in all directions.

[0028] Note that the structures of the first connection structure portion 11 and the second connection structure portion 12 constituting the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment are basically based on the technical idea and experimental result data disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 5807984.

[0029] <The First Connection Structure Portion and the Second Connection Structure Portion> The first connection structure portion 11 is composed of a first straight pipe portion 11a that is a cylindrical straight pipe, and a first fitting portion 11b that is joined to one end of the first straight pipe portion 11a and has a predetermined spherical curvature and a smooth outer surface (see FIG. 2).

[0030] The second connection structure portion 12 is composed of a second straight pipe portion 12a that is a cylindrical straight pipe, and a second fitting portion 12b that is joined to one end of the second straight pipe portion 12a, has an inner surface with a spherical curvature substantially the same as the spherical curvature of the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b and an inner diameter substantially the same as the outer diameter of the first fitting portion 11b, and further has a smooth inner surface (see FIG. 3).

[0031] Also, the first fitting portion 11b has a spherical shape with a diameter larger than that of the first straight pipe portion 11a (see FIG. 2(A)), while the second fitting portion 12b has a hemispherical shape with a diameter larger than that of the second straight pipe portion 12a (see FIG. 3(A)). The first fitting portion 11b and the second fitting portion 12b having such shapes form an interlocking fitting portion 23 that interlocks with each other when a part of the spherical surface of the first fitting portion 11b is accommodated inside the second fitting portion 12b (see FIG. 4). And in the fitted state (the state where the interlocking fitting portion 23 is formed), when the interlocking fitting portion 23 is slid, for example, the tip of the second straight pipe portion 12a can turn in substantially all directions around the central axis of the first straight pipe portion 11a. At this time, the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b and the inner surface of the second fitting portion 12b slide while maintaining a watertight state around a common spherical center portion P in each fitting portion.

[0032] Note that the above-mentioned "substantially all directions" does not mean all directions in a complete sense, but rather the range of turning and bending angles required in the pipe connection work, meaning that any direction can be flexibly set within this range.

[0033] Also, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the central axis Z1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a and the central axis Z2 of the second straight pipe portion 12a do not pass through the center P of the sphere. That is, the first straight pipe portion 11a and the second straight pipe portion 12a are eccentrically joined to the first fitting portion 11b and the second fitting portion 12b, respectively.

[0034] Specifically, in the cross-sectional view (the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 4) formed by the plane S (not shown) formed by the center P of the sphere and the central axis Z1 or the central axis Z2, a part of the joint portion between the first straight pipe portion 11a and the first fitting portion 11b forms a continuous flat portion 11c due to the above eccentricity. Similarly, a part of the joint portion between the second straight pipe portion 12a and the second fitting portion 12b forms a continuous flat portion 12c due to the above eccentricity.

[0035] Also, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, among the straight lines (W0, W1, W2...) connecting the center P of the sphere and the central axis Z1, a plane that includes a straight line within the range of the angle F formed by these straight lines and the central axis Z1 being 38° to 68° and is orthogonal to the plane S, and the plane formed by the inner wall of the first fitting portion 11b is defined as the reference plane T.

[0036] In the present embodiment, as an example, a plane that includes the straight line W0 with an angle F of 45° with the central axis Z1 and is orthogonal to the plane S, and the plane formed by the inner wall of the first fitting portion 11b is defined as the reference plane T (see FIG. 4).

[0037] And in the first fitting portion 11b, with the reference plane T as a reference, in the direction V (the direction in which the surface area of the first fitting portion 11b increases) opposite to the direction in which the first straight pipe portion 11a is connected, an end peripheral portion 11d is formed at a position (a translated position) separated by a length L of 15% to 30% of the diameter of the reference plane T (the inner diameter R1 of the first fitting portion 11b) (see FIG. 4).

[0038] Furthermore, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, it is desirable to set the inner diameter R1 (diameter of the reference plane T) of the first fitting portion 11b to be 1.2 to 2.0 times longer than the inner diameter X1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a. Most desirably, the inner diameter R1 of the first fitting portion 11b is set to be 1.6 times the length of the inner diameter X1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a. When the ratio R1 / X1 is less than 1.2, the difference between the inner diameter R1 of the first fitting portion 11b and the inner diameter X1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a is small. As a result, the turning angle of the first straight pipe portion 11a is significantly restricted, which is not preferable.

[0039] On the other hand, when the ratio R1 / X1 is greater than 2.0, the difference between the inner diameter R1 of the first fitting portion 11b and the inner diameter X1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a is large. As a result, the turning angle of the first straight pipe portion 11a becomes large. However, on the contrary, the area of the joint portion between the first fitting portion 11b and the first straight pipe portion 11a becomes small, and the strength and durability of the telescopic pipe joint 1 decrease, which is not preferable. Furthermore, under the condition that the ratio R1 / X1 is made larger than 2.0, when the inner diameter X1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a is increased, the inner diameter R1 of the first fitting portion 11b becomes extremely large, and accordingly, the entire telescopic pipe joint 1 also becomes proportionally large, so the manufacturing cost increases. In addition, the increase in the size of the entire telescopic pipe joint 1 becomes a drawback in the pipe connection work in an extremely narrow working space.

[0040] As described above, in the first connection structure portion 11, at least any one of the angle F formed between the reference plane T inside the first fitting portion 11b and the central axis Z1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a, the distance L between the end peripheral portion 11d of the first fitting portion 11b and the reference plane T, and the ratio R1 / X1 of the inner diameter R1 of the first fitting portion 11b to the inner diameter X1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a is set within the range of the above-described values.

[0041] On one hand, as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 4, in the second fitting portion 12b, an end peripheral portion 12d is formed at a position where a plane that includes a straight line (Y0, Y1, Y2...) connecting the spherical center P and the central axis Z2 and is orthogonal to the plane S intersects the spherical surface portion of the second fitting portion 12b, and the angle F' formed by such a straight line and the central axis Z2 is within the range of 38° to 68°. That is, the end peripheral portion 12d of the second fitting portion 12b is formed on a plane including the spherical center P. Thereby, the cost in the molding process of the second fitting portion 12b can be reduced.

[0042] Also, as shown in FIGS. 3(A) and 3(C), an annular fitting protrusion 21 is formed on the outer peripheral wall surface of the end peripheral portion 12d in the second connection structure portion 12, and a plurality of spiral protrusions 22 (or spiral grooves 22) having a predetermined length are formed adjacent to each other on the outer surface of the fitting protrusion 21 at a predetermined interval U.

[0043] Specifically, at least two spiral protrusions 22 need to be provided on the fitting protrusion 21. For example, when there are two spiral protrusions 22, it is preferably arranged at a position that covers the annular fitting protrusion 21 by half a circumference. When three or more spiral protrusions 22 are provided, it is preferably divided and arranged at a position that covers the fitting protrusion 21 in units of 1 / 3, 1 / 4,....

[0044] <Reinforcing support> Further, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, an annular reinforcing support 13 formed to cover the first fitting portion 11b is attached to the annular fitting protrusion 21 which is the end of the second fitting portion 12b.

[0045] Specifically, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, both the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b and the inner surface of the second fitting portion 12b are formed as smooth surfaces, without any irregularities such as protrusions or depressions, and the mutual fitting portion 23 is always maintained in a state where it can slide easily and smoothly. On the other hand, the mutual fitting portion 23 where the first fitting portion 11b and the second fitting portion 12b come into contact due to sliding is a particularly fragile part, so it is reinforced by an annular reinforcing support 13.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the reinforcing support 13 used in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, (A) is a plan view, and (B) is a cross-sectional view taken along A-A'. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the reinforcing support 13, (A) is a cross-sectional view taken along B-B' of the reinforcing support 13 alone, and (B) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the state where the reinforcing support 13 is integrated with each fitting portion. FIG. 7(A) is a perspective view of the reinforcing support 13, and FIG. 7(B) is a side view of the second connection structure portion.

[0047] The reinforcing support 13 has an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the fitting protrusion 21 formed on the second connection structure portion 12 and is formed to be attachable to the outer peripheral wall surface of the fitting protrusion 21 by screwing. This reinforcing support 13 is composed of an annular cylindrical body portion 42 with a height H1 and a truncated hollow conical body portion 43 integrally formed and connected above the annular cylindrical body portion 42.

[0048] An annular first annular recessed portion 46, which is a recess with a depth H1 from the lower end surface 45 of the annular cylindrical body portion 42, is formed on the inner circumference of the annular cylindrical body portion 42. A spiral groove portion 48 (or a spiral protrusion portion 48) that screws into the spiral protrusion portion 22 (or the spiral groove portion 22) formed on the outer surface of the fitting protrusion 21 is formed on the inner wall surface 47 of the first annular recessed portion 46. That is, by fitting the spiral groove portion 48 formed on the annular cylindrical body portion 42 and the spiral protrusion portion 22 formed on the fitting protrusion 21 while sliding (performing a screwing operation), the reinforcing support 13 is fixed to the second connection structure portion 12 (the second fitting portion 12b).

[0049] The outer peripheral surface portion 50 of the truncated hollow conical portion 43 is composed of an inclined surface having an angle θ with respect to the central axis direction of the reinforcing support 13 (see Fig. 6(A)). The angle θ is appropriately set according to the spherical curvature of the first fitting portion 11b. On the other hand, the inner peripheral surface portion 51 of the truncated hollow conical portion 43 has the same spherical curvature as the spherical curvature of the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b (see Fig. 6(B)). Thereby, it becomes possible to slide the inner peripheral surface portion 51 of the truncated hollow conical portion 43 and the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b in a watertight state.

[0050] Also, the height H2 of the reinforcing support 13 is set to a length of 15% to 25% with respect to the maximum inner diameter of the end peripheral portion 12d of the second connection structure portion 12. In addition, the dimensions of each part of the reinforcing support 13 other than the height H2 of the reinforcing support 13 and the height H1 of the annular cylindrical portion 42 (the depth H1 of the first annular recess 46) only need to be maintained in a state where the mutual fitting portion 23 can slide easily and smoothly (the first fitting portion 11b and the second fitting portion 12b can slide in substantially all directions), and are not particularly limited.

[0051] By using the reinforcing support 13, although the end peripheral portion 12d of the actual second fitting portion 12b is formed on a plane including the sphere center portion P, the position of the end of the second fitting portion 12b is the same as the position of the end peripheral portion 11d of the first fitting portion 11b. It has a structure as if it is formed at a position parallelly moved by a length L (in the direction opposite to the direction in which the second straight pipe portion 12a is connected) from the plane including the sphere center portion P (see Fig. 6(B)). Thereby, the contact area of the sliding portion becomes large, and it becomes possible to slide the first fitting portion 11b smoothly and stably.

[0052] Furthermore, by using the reinforcing support 13, for example, even when the end peripheral portion 11d and the end peripheral portion 12d are open at the portion where the first fitting portion 11b and the second fitting portion 12b overlap (corresponding to the mutual fitting portion 23), the reinforcing support 13 can sufficiently cover the opening portion.

[0053] In addition, by performing screw tightening using a plurality of spiral protrusions 22 (or spiral grooves 22) and spiral grooves 48 (or spiral protrusions 48), the compressive strength and tensile strength between the first fitting portion 11b and the second fitting portion 12b can be significantly improved, and the sliding operation of the mutual fitting portion 23 can be made smoother. Furthermore, due to the reinforcement by the reinforcing support 13, it becomes possible to continuously maintain the absorption effect against shaking and vibration such as earthquakes over a long period of time, so excellent earthquake resistance can be obtained.

[0054] <Universal pipe joint> That is, the universal pipe joint 2 configured as described above includes a first straight pipe portion 11a and a first fitting portion 11b having a spherical shape joined to one end of the first straight pipe portion 11a and having a predetermined spherical curvature on its outer surface, and includes a first connection structure portion. Further, the universal pipe joint 2 includes a second straight pipe portion 12a and a second fitting portion 12b having a hemispherical shape joined to one end of the second straight pipe portion 12a, having the same spherical curvature on its inner surface as the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b, and further having the same inner diameter as the outer diameter of the first fitting portion 11b, and includes a second connection structure portion. Furthermore, the universal pipe joint 2 includes an annular reinforcing support 13 having the same spherical curvature on its inner peripheral surface as the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b and being screwable to the end peripheral portion 12d of the second fitting portion 12b so as to cover the first fitting portion 11b.

[0055] Furthermore, the first fitting portion 11b and the second fitting portion 12b are each formed to have a larger diameter than the first straight pipe portion 11a and the second straight pipe portion 12a, and a mutual fitting portion 23 is formed that mutually fits in a state where a part of the spherical surface of the first fitting portion 11b is accommodated inside the second fitting portion 12b. When the mutual fitting portion 23 is slid in a state where the first fitting portion 11b and the second fitting portion 12b are fitted, the tip of the second straight pipe portion 12a can turn in substantially all directions around the central axis of the first straight pipe portion 11a.

[0056] Thereby, the universal pipe joint 2 can absorb the rotational displacement of the piping path due to shaking and vibration such as earthquakes.

[0057] In the flexible pipe joint 2, the inner diameter X1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a provided in the first connection structure portion 11 and the inner diameter X2 of the second straight pipe portion 12a provided in the second connection structure portion 12 may be the same or different. In this embodiment, it is possible to arbitrarily combine and use straight pipe portions with different diameters. However, when the second connection structure portion 12 is used on the downstream side with respect to the fluid flow direction and the first connection structure portion 11 is used on the upstream side with respect to the fluid flow direction, it is desirable that the inner diameter X2 of the second straight pipe portion 12a is larger than the inner diameter X1 of the first straight pipe portion 11a.

[0058] <Locking device> In the telescopic pipe joint 1 of this embodiment, in order to prevent displacement between the reinforcing support 13 and the second fitting portion 12b and loosening of the screwed portion (locking), a locking device 58 is further introduced.

[0059] Then, in order to perform a locking operation by this locking device 58, at least one first insertion groove 54 having a predetermined length is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the fitting projection 21 upward from the lower end surface 53 (see FIG. 7(B)). Further, in a state where the spiral groove portion 48 formed in the annular cylindrical body portion 42 of the reinforcing support 13 and the spiral protrusion portion 22 formed in the fitting projection 21 are fitted together (a state where the second connection structure portion 12 and the reinforcing support 13 are attached and fixed), at a position facing the first insertion groove 54, a second insertion groove 52 having the same length as the first insertion groove 54 is provided upward from the lower end surface 45 (see FIG. 7(A)). Thereby, when the positions of the first insertion groove 54 and the second insertion groove 52 coincide with each other in a state where the second connection structure portion 12 and the reinforcing support 13 are attached and fixed, an insertion hole for preventing mutual movement (locking) is formed.

[0060] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of a specific example of the locking device 58 used in the present embodiment. The locking device 58 has a base portion 55, a first insertion pin portion 57 formed to be fittingly insertable into the first insertion groove 54, and a second insertion pin portion 56 formed to be fittingly insertable into the second insertion groove 52, and the first insertion pin portion 57 and the second insertion pin portion 56 are integrally formed with the base portion 55 so as to be in a parallel state. Note that a protrusion 59 for preventing the locking device 58 from falling off is provided on the first insertion pin portion 57, and a groove portion 54a that fits into the protrusion 59 is provided in the first insertion groove 54. By inserting this locking device 58 (the first insertion pin portion 57, the second insertion pin portion 56) into the insertion hole for locking and pushing it in until the protrusion 59 and the groove portion 54a are fitted, mutual movement between the second connection structure portion 12 and the reinforcing support 13 can be prevented (locked).

[0061] The dimensions of the locking device 58 are not particularly limited, but in the present embodiment, the length C is 14 mm, the width D1 is 6.8 mm, the thickness E is 4 mm, the width D2 of the first insertion pin portion 57 connected to the base portion 55 is 3 mm, and the width D3 of the second insertion pin portion 56 is 2 mm.

[0062] Note that the first insertion groove 54 and the second insertion groove 52 are used for aligning the positions of the reinforcing support 13 and the second fitting portion 12b (fitting protrusion 21) when an operator performs a screwing operation at the piping work site.

[0063] <Stopper> Also, when the joint boundary between the first straight pipe portion 11a and the first fitting portion 11b in the first connection structure portion 11 is defined as a joint boundary line 60 (see FIGS. 1 and 2(B)), on the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b, there are provided protruding stoppers 65 formed in an annular shape with two predetermined positions on the joint boundary line 60 as the bases. Specifically, this stopper 65 is a part of the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b, i.e., a first outer surface portion 62, which is close to the shortest portion 61 on the joint boundary line 60 where the distance from the edge portion of the first straight pipe portion 11a is the shortest, and a second outer surface portion 64, which is a part of the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b and is close to the longest portion 63 on the joint boundary line 60 where the distance from the edge portion of the first straight pipe portion 11a is the longest, and is arranged in an annular shape on the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b so as to pass through them.

[0064] The shape of the stopper 65 is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, for example, it is desirable that the height of the protrusion be within the range of 1 mm to 5 mm. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the turning angle of the first straight pipe portion 11a from being excessively enlarged, and the turning and swinging operations of the first straight pipe portion 11a can be smoothed by the guiding function of the stopper 65.

[0065] Note that, depending on the magnitude of the angle F, the wall thickness and outer diameter of the first straight pipe portion 11a, the space near the first outer surface portion 62 may become small and it may be difficult to arrange the stopper 65 in an annular shape. In such a case, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2(B), stopper cutout portions 66 composed of broken line portions of a predetermined length may be formed on both sides centering on the first outer surface portion 62. That is, it may be made into a non - continuous annular stopper 65. Also, regarding the portion of the stopper 65 passing through the second outer surface portion 64, it may be arranged in a direction away from the joint boundary line 60 according to the wall thickness and outer diameter of the first straight pipe portion 11a.

[0066] <Sealing member> Further, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, at the bottom of the first annular recessed portion 46, as shown in FIG. 6(A), an annular second annular recessed portion 70 is formed, which is a recess having a desired step (depth) with an inner diameter smaller than that of the first annular recessed portion 46. An O-ring 71, which is an annular sealing member, is fitted into this annular second annular recessed portion 70 along the inner peripheral wall (see FIG. 6(B)). By closely contacting the outer surface of the first fitting portion 11b and the end peripheral portion 12d of the second fitting portion 12b, the O-ring 71 seals between the inside and the outside of the mutual fitting portion 23 (ensuring the watertightness between the inside and the outside) (see FIG. 6(B)).

[0067] Note that the annular second annular recessed portion 70 only needs to be formed in a stepped manner with respect to the bottom of the first annular recessed portion 46 and be formed so that the O-ring 71 can be fitted therein, and the dimensions such as the depth and the inner diameter are not particularly limited. Also, regarding the material and shape of the O-ring 71, it only needs to ensure the watertightness between the inside and the outside in the state of being fitted into the second annular recessed portion 70, and is not particularly limited. For example, those formed of silicone resin are preferable.

[0068] <Telescopic structure portion (telescopic joint)> Further, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, a telescopic structure portion 14 that functions as a telescopic joint 3 is connected to either one of the first connection structure portion 11 or the second connection structure portion 12.

[0069] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of a specific example of the telescopic structure portion 14 that constitutes the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention. Specifically, the left half of the illustration is a front view, and the right half is a cross-sectional view seen from the front. This telescopic structure portion 14 absorbs the displacement in the telescopic direction of the piping path due to shaking or vibration such as an earthquake.

[0070] The telescopic structure portion 14 is composed of a substantially cylindrical joint body 81, an annular rubber ring 82 that is a sealing member, and an annular receiving port cover 83.

[0071] The joint body 81 has a free pipe insertion port 84 to be inserted into the end opening of the first connection structure portion 11 or the end opening of the second connection structure portion 12, and a pipe receiving port 85 for inserting a pipe such as a PVC pipe forming a piping path, and is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape having a step. Specifically, in the joint body 81, the pipe receiving port 85 is formed with a larger inner diameter than the free pipe insertion port 84. Further, between the free pipe insertion port 84 and the pipe receiving port 85, a step surface 86 having an inclination with respect to the central axis direction of the cylinder is formed due to the difference in inner diameter.

[0072] Also, on the tip side of the pipe receiving port 85 of the joint body 81, a cylindrical enlarged diameter portion 88 having a larger inner diameter than other portions (corresponding to the reduced diameter portion 87 shown in the figure) is formed, and an annular rubber ring 82 is fitted into this enlarged diameter portion 88. Thereby, when the pipe is inserted, the rubber ring 82 is slidably adhered to the outer surface of the pipe, and reliably seals between the inside and the outside of the pipe.

[0073] The receiving port cover 83 is formed in a cap shape that covers the enlarged diameter portion 88 of the joint body 81, and is joined by being pushed axially and fitted into the enlarged diameter portion 88. Note that the method of joining is not limited to this fitting type, and joining by screwing, adhesion, or the like may be used. Further, in a state where the receiving port cover 83 is fitted into the enlarged diameter portion 88 of the joint body 81, an opening 89 for inserting the pipe is formed at the tip of the receiving port cover 83 side of the expansion and contraction structure portion 14. This opening 89 penetrates toward the free pipe insertion port 84 side.

[0074] When performing construction of a piping path using the telescopic pipe joint 1 to which the telescopic structure portion 14 configured as described above is fixed, an operator inserts the pipe through the opening 89 on the receiving port cover 83 side and pushes the tip of the pipe into the pipe receiving port 85 of the joint body 81. At this time, the tip of the pipe inserted into the pipe receiving port 85 is locked around the middle of the reduced diameter portion 87 formed in the pipe receiving port 85 (it does not contact the step surface 86). Thereby, it is possible to secure the expansion and contraction allowance of the piping path due to shaking or vibration such as an earthquake. That is, this expansion and contraction allowance can absorb the displacement in the expansion and contraction direction of the piping path due to an earthquake.

[0075] Further, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, by providing the telescopic structure portion 14, the pipe inserted into the pipe receiving port portion 85 can be easily removed. As a result, the first connection structure portion 11, the second connection structure portion 12, and the reinforcing support 13 assembled by screwing can be disassembled, so that the O-ring 71 can be easily and quickly replaced.

[0076] The materials of the joint body 81 and the receiving port cover 83 are not particularly limited. For example, metals, synthetic resins (such as vinyl chloride resin or polyethylene resin) are preferably used. In addition, FRP resins, ceramics, etc. incorporating reinforcing materials containing glass fibers or carbon fibers may also be used. Further, various well-known rubber rings can be suitably used as the rubber ring 82.

[0077] Further, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the telescopic joint 3 (telescopic structure portion 14) of the concentric type (the free pipe insertion port portion 84 and the pipe receiving port portion 85 are formed concentrically) that mainly absorbs the displacement in the telescopic direction in the vertical pipe path has been described, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the free pipe insertion port portion 84 and the pipe receiving port portion 85 do not necessarily have to be formed on the same concentric circle, and there may be a portion without a step surface 86 by making them eccentric. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a specific example of another telescopic structure portion (telescopic joint) constituting the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention. The telescopic joint shown in FIG. 10 allows the pipe to be inserted from the opening on the pipe receiving port portion 85 side. That is, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, it is also possible to integrate an eccentric type telescopic joint that mainly absorbs the displacement in the telescopic direction in the horizontal pipe path.

[0078] <Effect, etc.> As described above, the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment includes a flexible pipe joint 2 capable of arranging pipes in substantially all directions required in pipe connection work, and a telescopic joint 3 fixed to either the first connection structure portion 11 or the second connection structure portion 12 and capable of adjusting the length in the telescopic direction of the pipe path and removing the pipe. Thereby, installation work and repair work of pipes can be easily and quickly performed, including replacement of the O-ring 71. That is, by using the telescopic pipe joint 1, even in installation work and repair work of pipes in an extremely narrow space, while satisfying the gradient (2% or more) defined by the Building Standards Law, the pipe connection work can be easily and quickly realized.

[0079] In addition, when performing pipe installation work and repair work using conventional joints, elbow pipes, or bellows pipes, it was necessary for at least two workers to actually check and perform alignment of the pipes, adjustment work such as the arrangement position and inclination angle of the pipes to be connected, etc. However, due to the simplification of the pipe connection work, even a single worker can easily and quickly complete the above adjustment work in a short time.

[0080] Furthermore, in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment, the flexible pipe joint 2 absorbs the displacement in the rotational direction of the pipe path due to shaking or vibration such as an earthquake, and the telescopic joint 3 absorbs the displacement in the telescopic direction of the pipe path due to shaking or vibration such as an earthquake. Due to these interactions, it functions as a joint for a seismic-resistant structure pipe path that absorbs displacements of the pipe path in all directions, so excellent seismic resistance can be obtained.

[0081] Note that in the telescopic pipe joint 1 of the present embodiment described above, the telescopic joint 3 is fixed to either the first connection structure portion 11 or the second connection structure portion 12. For example, it does not prevent the telescopic joint 3 from being fixed to both the first connection structure portion 11 and the second connection structure portion 12.

[0082] Also, the telescopic pipe joint 1 in the present embodiment may be used for gases, but it is particularly effective in the field of treating fluids including liquids.

[0083] <Example of earthquake-resistant structure> FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the telescopic pipe joint according to the present invention. Specifically, (A) shows an example of an earthquake-resistant structure piping route using the telescopic pipe joint 1 and a general straight pipe, and (B) shows an example of an earthquake-resistant structure piping route incorporating a T-shaped socket.

[0084] As shown in the examples of FIGS. 11(A) and 11(B), workers at the construction site arrange the telescopic pipe joint 1 and various pipes at various locations in the piping route in an extremely narrow working space, and appropriately adjust the alignment of the pipes, the arrangement positions and inclination angles of the pipes to be connected, etc., thereby performing pipe connection work for collective buildings such as ordinary houses, multi-story houses, and offices.

[0085] Thereby, an earthquake-resistant structure piping route having excellent earthquake resistance against horizontal and vertical forces caused by shaking and vibration such as earthquakes can be realized while satisfying a predetermined gradient defined by the Building Standards Act with simple and rapid pipe connection work.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0086] 1 Telescopic pipe joint 2 Flexible pipe joint 3 Expansion joint 11 First connection structure part 11a First straight pipe part 11b First fitting part 11c Continuous flat part 11d End peripheral part 12 Second connection structure part 12a Second straight pipe part 12b Second fitting part 12c Continuous flat part 12d End peripheral part 13 Reinforcing support 14 Telescopic structure part 21 Fitting protrusion 22 Spiral protrusion (spiral groove part) 23 Mutual fitting part 42 Annular cylindrical body part 43 Truncated hollow conical body part 45 Lower end surface 46 First annular recessed portion 47 Inner wall portion 48 Spiral groove portion (spiral protrusion portion) 50 Outer peripheral surface portion 51 Inner peripheral surface portion 52 Second insertion groove 53 Lower end surface 54 First insertion groove 54a Groove portion 55 Base portion 56 Second insertion pin portion 57 First insertion pin portion 58 Locking device 59 Protrusion 60 Joining boundary line 61 Shortest portion 62 First outer surface portion 63 Longest portion 64 Second outer surface portion 65 Stopper 66 Stopper notch 70 Second annular recessed portion 71 O-ring 81 Joint body 82 Rubber ring 83 Receiver cover 84 Flexible pipe insertion port 85 Pipe receiver 86 Step surface 87 Reduced diameter portion 88 Enlarged diameter portion 89 Opening

Claims

1. A flexible pipe joint for laying a pipe in any direction within the range of turning and bending angles required for pipe connection work, One end is fixed to either one end or the other end of the flexible pipe joint, and the length in the telescopic direction of the pipe path can be adjusted by inserting and removing the pipe into and from the receiving port, which is the other end, of the telescopic joint, comprising, The flexible pipe joint is, A first connection structure portion including a first straight pipe portion that is a cylindrical straight pipe, and a first fitting portion that is joined to one end of the first straight pipe portion and has an outer surface with a predetermined spherical curvature, A second connection structure portion including a second straight pipe portion that is a cylindrical straight pipe, and a second fitting portion that is joined to one end of the second straight pipe portion, has an inner surface with the same spherical curvature as the outer surface of the first fitting portion, and further has an inner diameter the same as the outer diameter of the first fitting portion and is hemispherical, An annular reinforcing support body having an inner peripheral surface with the same spherical curvature as the outer surface of the first fitting portion and being screwable to the peripheral edge portion of the end of the second fitting portion so as to cover the first fitting portion, including, Further, the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are each formed to have a larger diameter than the first straight pipe portion and the second straight pipe portion, and a mutually fitting portion is formed in which a part of the spherical surface of the first fitting portion is accommodated inside the second fitting portion and they fit together, When the mutually fitting portion is slid in the fitted state, the tip of the second straight pipe portion can turn within the range about the central axis of the first straight pipe portion, A telescopic flexible pipe joint characterized by this.

2. The first straight pipe portion and the second straight pipe portion are each joined eccentrically to the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion, The telescopic flexible pipe joint according to claim 1, characterized by this.

3. The angle formed by the straight line connecting the common spherical center in the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion and the central axis of the first straight pipe portion, and the central axis, is within the range of 38° or more and 68° or less. The telescopic pipe joint according to claim 1, characterized in that.

4. Among the straight lines connecting the common spherical center in the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion and the central axis of the first straight pipe portion, the straight lines whose angle formed by those straight lines and the central axis is within the range of 38° or more and 68° or less are included, and in the case where a plane orthogonal to the plane formed by the spherical center and the central axis of the first straight pipe portion, and the plane formed by the inner wall of the first fitting portion is used as the reference plane, The peripheral edge portion of the end of the first fitting portion is formed at a position separated by a length of 15% or more and 30% or less of the diameter of the reference plane in the direction in which the surface area of the first fitting portion increases with reference to the reference plane. The telescopic pipe joint according to claim 1, characterized in that.

5. The inner diameter of the first fitting portion is set to be longer within the range of 1.2 times or more and 2.0 times or less than the inner diameter of the first straight pipe portion. The telescopic pipe joint according to claim 1, characterized in that.

6. The peripheral edge portion of the end of the second fitting portion is Among the straight lines connecting the common spherical center in the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion and the central axis of the second straight pipe portion, the straight lines whose angle formed by those straight lines and the central axis is within the range of 38° or more and 68° or less are included, and a plane orthogonal to the plane formed by the spherical center and the central axis of the second straight pipe portion, and The spherical portion of the second fitting portion, and Is formed at the intersecting position. The telescopic pipe joint according to claim 1, characterized in that.

7. The telescopic joint is It includes a rubber ring that slidably adheres to the outer surface of the connected pipe and seals between the inside and outside of the pipe. It has a flexible pipe socket portion that is inserted into an opening formed at either one end or the other end of the flexible pipe joint, and a pipe receiving portion into which the pipe is inserted. The inner diameter of the pipe receiving portion is formed larger than that of the flexible pipe socket portion. Further, a stepped surface due to the difference in inner diameter is formed between the flexible pipe socket portion and the pipe receiving portion. The telescopic pipe joint according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that.

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