Pipe joint

Abstract

To provide a pipe joint which enables reduction of the number of components and reduction of manufacturing costs.SOLUTION: A pipe joint 1 of the disclosure includes: a first holding member (10); a second holding member (20); and a pressing member (30). An inner peripheral surface of a recessed spherical surface part (10a) formed at the first holding member (10) and an outer peripheral surface of a protruding spherical surface part (21a) formed at the second holding member (20) are arranged facing each other. In a state that the protruding spherical surface part (21a) is sandwiched between the recessed spherical surface part (10a) and the pressing member (30), the first holding member (10) and the pressing member (30) are connected to form a continuous hole.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a pipe joint.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a pipe joint having a movable part that can be operated by holding the periphery of a convex spherical surface portion with a left pipe connection portion and a stop ring fixed to the left pipe connection portion at a plurality of locations with bolts and nuts (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the conventional pipe joint, there is a problem that the structure becomes complicated and the manufacturing costs such as processing costs and spare parts costs increase.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a pipe joint capable of reducing the number of parts and suppressing the manufacturing cost in order to solve the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The pipe joint according to the present disclosure includes a first holding member having a first through-hole, a second holding member having a second holding member body with a second through-hole, and a pressing member having a pressing member through-hole. At one opening end of the first holding member, a concave spherical portion with an inner peripheral surface formed as a concave spherical surface is formed. At one opening end of the second holding member body, a convex spherical portion with an outer peripheral surface formed as a convex spherical surface is formed. The inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical portion and the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical portion are arranged to face each other. The pressing member is inserted into the inside of the second holding member body, and the first holding member and the pressing member are connected in a state where the convex spherical portion is sandwiched between the concave spherical portion and the pressing member. The first through-hole, the second through-hole, and the pressing member through-hole are continuous.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the pipe joint of the present disclosure, the number of parts can be reduced and the manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Embodiment 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section taken along line II-II of FIG. 1.

[0010] The pipe joint 1 includes a first holding member 10, a second holding member 20, and a pressing member 30. The pipe joint 1 is configured by connecting the first holding member 10, the second holding member 20, and the pressing member 30 respectively.

[0011] The pipe joint 1 connects wiring and piping. The pipe joint 1 has a through hole, and wiring can be passed through the continuous holes in the piping connected through the pipe joint 1.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the first holding member 10 of FIG. 2. The first holding member 10 will be described based on FIGS. 1, 2, and 3. The first holding member 10 is a tubular member, and a first through hole 10d is formed. Let the axis of the first through hole 10d and the longitudinal axis of the first holding member 10 be axis 10L.

[0013] One end in the longitudinal direction of the first holding member 10, that is, one open end where the first through hole 10d opens, is a concave spherical surface portion 10a. The inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a continuous with the first through hole 10d is formed as a concave spherical surface. The concave spherical surface is formed such that its center exists on the axis 10L.

[0014] At least a part of the first through hole 10d functions as a connection hole portion 60. A connection hole portion screw 60a is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the first through hole 10d as the connection hole portion 60.

[0015] A pipe first connection mechanism 10x is formed at the opening end of the first holding member 10 on the side opposite to one opening end. Another pipe member can be connected to the first holding member 10 by the pipe first connection mechanism 10x. In the first embodiment, the pipe first connection mechanism 10x is a thread groove formed on the outer periphery of the first holding member 10.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the second holding member 20 of FIG. 2. The second holding member 20 will be described based on FIGS. 1, 2, and 4. The second holding member 20 has a second holding member body 21 that is a tubular member and a waterproof member 22. A second through hole 21d is formed in the second holding member body 21.

[0017] Let the axis of the second through hole 21d, the longitudinal axis of the second holding member 20, and the longitudinal axis of the second holding member body 21 be the axis 20L.

[0018] The second through hole 21d opens at one longitudinal end of the second holding member body 21. That is, one longitudinal end of the second holding member body 21 is one opening end of the second holding member body 21 where the second through hole 21d opens.

[0019] The opening of the second through hole 21d that opens at one longitudinal end of the second holding member body 21 is defined as the second opening 21c.

[0020] A convex spherical surface portion 21a is formed at one longitudinal end of the second holding member body 21. The outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a is formed as a convex spherical surface surrounding the second opening 21c. The convex spherical surface that is the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a is formed such that its center exists on the axis 20L.

[0021] The inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a is formed with a convex spherical surface inner peripheral surface 21b that is a concave inner peripheral surface corresponding to the convex spherical surface portion 21a. The convex spherical surface inner peripheral surface 21b is formed such that its center exists on the axis 20L.

[0022] On the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a, a holding groove 21e, which is a continuous annular groove centered on the axis 20L, is formed. A waterproof member 22 is fitted into and held in the holding groove 21e. In the present embodiment, the waterproof member 22 is an O-ring, which is an annular member.

[0023] Note that the waterproof member 22 can be used as long as it is a member having an annular shape and having a waterproof function, other than an O-ring.

[0024] A pipe second connection mechanism 20x is formed at the opening end portion of the second holding member main body 21 on the side opposite to one opening end portion. By means of the pipe second connection mechanism 20x, another pipe member can be connected to the second holding member 20. In the first embodiment, the pipe second connection mechanism 20x is a thread groove formed on the outer periphery of the second holding member main body 21.

[0025] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressing member 30 of FIG. 2. The pressing member 30 will be described based on FIGS. 1, 2, and 5. The pressing member 30 is a tubular member. A pressing member through hole 30d is formed in the pressing member 30. The axis of the pressing member through hole 30d and the longitudinal axis of the pressing member 30 are defined as the axis 30L.

[0026] A shaft portion 50 is formed on one end side of the pressing member 30. A contact portion 30a is formed on the other end side of the pressing member 30, which is opposite to one end. The diameter of the shaft portion 50 is smaller than the diameter of the contact portion 30a.

[0027] The pressing member through hole 30d penetrates the center of the shaft portion 50 and opens at the end. The opening of the pressing member through hole 30d that opens at the end of the shaft portion 50 is defined as the pressing member opening 30c. A shaft portion screw 50a, which is a screw, is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion 50.

[0028] The outer shape of the contact portion 30a presents a part of a sphere centered on the axis 30L. The outer peripheral surface of the contact portion 30a is a convex spherical surface. At least a part of the spherical surface of the outer peripheral surface of the contact portion 30a is the contact location 30b. The contact location 30b will be described later.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing the contact portion 30a when the pressing member 30 in FIG. 5 is viewed along the axis 30L. In FIG. 6, the state of the pressing member 30 viewed from the contact portion 30a side is shown. On the end face of the pressing member 30 on the contact portion 30a side, a tool connection portion 30h is formed around the axis 30L.

[0030] The tool connection portion 30h is a hexagonal depression. A hexagonal wrench, which is a corresponding fastening tool, can be inserted and connected to the tool connection portion 30h. The pressing member 30 can be rotated around the axis 30L by the hexagonal wrench.

[0031] In the first embodiment, the shape of the tool connection portion 30h is set to a shape into which a hexagonal wrench can be inserted and connected. However, the tool connection portion 30h can be set to a shape that can connect a well-known fastening tool.

[0032] Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2 to continue the description. The convex spherical surface portion 21a of the second holding member main body 21 is fitted inside the concave spherical surface portion 10a of the first holding member 10. That is, the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a and the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a are arranged to face each other. Further, the pressing member 30 is inserted into the second through hole 21d of the second holding member main body 21 from the shaft portion 50.

[0033] The inner diameter of the second opening 21c is larger than the outer diameter of the shaft portion 50. The shaft portion 50 is screwed into the connection hole portion 60, which is the first through hole 10d, through the second opening 21c. That is, the shaft portion screw 50a is screwed into the connection hole portion screw 60a. Thereby, the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are connected and fixed.

[0034] By screwing and fixing the shaft portion 50 into the connection hole portion 60 which is the first through hole 10d, at least a part of the spherical surface of the outer peripheral surface of the contact portion 30a is in contact with and pressed against the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion of the second holding member main body 21. Further, the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a is pressed against the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a.

[0035] That is, the convex spherical surface portion 21a of the second holding member main body 21 is sandwiched between the concave spherical surface portion 10a and the contact portion 30a. The first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are connected in a state where the convex spherical surface portion 21a is sandwiched between the concave spherical surface portion 10a and the pressing member 30. The contact portion 30b is a part of the pressing member 30 that contacts the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion of the second holding member main body 21.

[0036] Since the shape of the contact portion 30b is a portion where the outer peripheral surface of the contact portion 30a having a spherical surface corresponding to the concave spherical surface which is the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion contacts, it has a continuous annular shape.

[0037] A waterproof member 22 which is a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a and a part of the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a are in annular continuous contact with each other.

[0038] In this way, the first holding member 10, the second holding member 20, and the pressing member 30 are respectively connected and fixed to form the pipe joint 1. Since the maximum outer diameter of the contact portion 30a is larger than the inner diameter of the second opening portion 21c, the second holding member 20 does not come off from the first holding member 10 beyond the contact portion 30a.

[0039] In a state where the first holding member 10, the second holding member 20, and the pressing member 30 are connected to each other, the first through hole 10d, the second through hole 21d, and the pressing member through hole 30d are continuous to form one continuous hole.

[0040] The waterproof member 22, which is a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a, and a part of the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a are in annular continuous contact with each other, so that the pipe joint 1 has a waterproof structure. The waterproof function can be maintained together with the pipes connected via the pipe joint 1.

[0041] In the state where the first holding member 10, the second holding member 20, and the pressing member 30 are respectively connected, the second holding member body 21 is relatively movable with respect to the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the moved state of the pipe joint 1 of FIG. 2.

[0042] Since the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are connected by a screw mechanism, the respective axes 10L and 30L are located on the same straight line. The pipe joint 1 can take a linear posture, that is, a posture in which the posture formed by the first holding member 10 and the second holding member 20 is linear.

[0043] The second holding member body 21 can move with respect to the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 so that the axis 20L of the second holding member body 21 is inclined. That is, it can bend and move so that the axis 10L of the first holding member 10 and the axis 20L of the second holding member 20 intersect. More specifically, the first holding member 10 and the second holding member 20 can relatively bend and move such that their axes 10L and 20L are in a straight line or bent.

[0044] The pipe joint 1 can take a bent posture in a state where the axis 10L of the first holding member 10 and the axis 20L of the second holding member body 21 intersect.

[0045] By applying a force to the second holding member body 21 so that the axis 20L intersects the axis 10L, the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a can move along the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a and bend and move. That is, the second holding member 20 bends and moves with respect to the first holding member 10 against the frictional force between the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a and the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a, and the frictional force between the contact portion 30b and the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion.

[0046] The second holding member 20 can bend and move until the edge of the second opening 21c and the shaft portion 50 interfere with each other and cannot bend and move any further.

[0047] The second holding member main body 21 can rotate around the axis 10L of the first holding member 10 and the axis 30L of the pressing member 30. That is, the first holding member 10 and the second holding member 20 can rotate around the axis of the other party.

[0048] In the rotational movement, by applying a force to the second holding member main body 21 so as to rotate around the axis 10L, the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a moves along the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a. That is, the second holding member 20 rotates relative to the first holding member 10 against the frictional force between the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a and the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a, and the frictional force between the contact portion 30b and the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21b.

[0049] The second holding member main body 21 can perform both bending movement and rotational movement. Even when the second holding member main body 21 bends and rotates with respect to the axis 10L and the axis 30L, the waterproof member 22 remains in continuous contact with the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a. That is, the pipe joint 1 maintains its waterproof function even when it bends and rotates.

[0050] The pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1 includes a first holding member 10 having a first through-hole 10d, a second holding member 20 having a second holding member main body 21 with a second through-hole 21d, and a pressing member 30 having a pressing member through-hole 30d. Further, a concave spherical surface portion 10a with an inner peripheral surface formed into a concave spherical surface is formed at one open end portion of the first holding member 10, and a convex spherical surface portion 21a with an outer peripheral surface formed into a convex spherical surface is formed at one open end portion of the second holding member main body 21. The inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a and the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a are arranged to face each other, and the pressing member 30 is inserted inside the second holding member main body 21. Also, the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are connected in a state where the convex spherical surface portion 21a is sandwiched between the concave spherical surface portion 10a and the pressing member 30, and the first through-hole 10d, the second through-hole 21d, and the pressing member through-hole 30d are continuous. Thereby, the pipe joint 1 can be constituted by three parts. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced and the manufacturing cost can be suppressed. Further, thereby, in a state where the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are connected to each other, the second holding member 20 is sandwiched. Therefore, only the pressing member 30 needs to be prepared to hold and fix the second holding member 20, and the number of parts can be reduced.

[0051] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, when one opening of the second through-hole 21d of the second holding member main body 21 is defined as a second opening 21c, the periphery of the second opening 21c is surrounded by the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a. Also, at least a part of either the pressing member 30 or the first holding member 10 passes through the second opening 21c. Thereby, in a state where the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are connected to each other, the second holding member 20 does not come off. Therefore, in the assembled pipe joint 1, there is little possibility that the parts come off, and it can be used stably.

[0052] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, when either one of the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 is used as the first member and the other is used as the second member, a shaft portion 50 is formed in the first member, and the shaft portion 50 is not formed in the second member. Further, when at least a part of the through hole of the second member, that is, the first through hole 10d or the pressing member through hole 30d, is used as the connection hole portion 60, the shaft portion 50 inserted into the second opening portion 21c is inserted into the connection hole portion 60. Thereby, two products with different variations can be provided in the pipe joint 1. Therefore, it is possible to provide a pipe joint 1 that is convenient for each user of the pipe joint 1.

[0053] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, a shaft portion screw 50a is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion 50, and a connection hole portion screw 60a corresponding to the shaft portion screw 50a is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the connection hole portion 60. Further, the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are connected to each other by screwing the shaft portion 50 into the connection hole portion 60. Thereby, since each of the first holding member 10, the second holding member 20, and the pressing member 30 is connected, it is not necessary to prepare mounting screws or the like. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced and the manufacturing cost can be suppressed. Further, thereby, when assembling the pipe joint 1 by connecting each of the first holding member 10, the second holding member 20, and the pressing member 30, fine members such as mounting screws are not used, and the manufacturing becomes easy. Therefore, the manufacturing cost can be further suppressed.

[0054] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, the first holding member 10 and the second holding member 20 can relatively bend and move so that their axes 10L and 20L are aligned or bent. Further, the first holding member 10 and the second holding member 20 can rotate around the axes 10L and 20L of each other. Thereby, the pipe joint 1 functions as a flexible joint. Thereby, by using the pipe joint 1 of the present disclosure, it is possible to lay pipes that can cope with various situations.

[0055] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, at least a part of the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a and at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a are in continuous contact with each other. Thereby, the pipe joint 1 of the present disclosure can have a waterproof structure. Therefore, the pipe joint 1 of the present disclosure can be used in an environment where a waterproof function is required. Therefore, it is possible to provide a pipe joint 1 having a waterproof structure and with suppressed manufacturing costs.

[0056] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, the second holding member 20 further includes a waterproof member 22. The waterproof member 22 is in continuous contact with at least a part of the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion 10a as at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a. Thereby, it is possible to obtain a pipe joint 1 with an even further improved waterproof function. Therefore, it is possible to provide a pipe joint 1 having a high waterproof structure and with suppressed manufacturing costs. Also, thereby, the joint surface of the pipe joint 1 is narrowed down to one location between the first holding member 10 and the second holding member 20. Therefore, the flooding route can be narrowed down to one location, and the waterproof function can be more easily added to the pipe joint 1.

[0057] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, the waterproof member 22 is an annular member, and a continuous holding groove 21e is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a. The waterproof member 22 is fitted and held in the holding groove 21e. Thereby, it is possible to obtain a pipe joint 1 having an even higher waterproof function. Therefore, it is possible to provide a pipe joint 1 having a higher waterproof structure and with suppressed manufacturing costs. Also, thereby, the arrangement of the waterproof member 22 becomes easy, and when assembling the pipe joint 1, the movement of the waterproof member 22 is reduced, so that the assembly of the pipe joint 1 becomes easy. Therefore, it is possible to provide a pipe joint 1 with even more suppressed manufacturing costs. Also, thereby, by applying the annular waterproof member 22 to the flooding route narrowed down to one location, a higher waterproof function can be easily added to the pipe joint 1.

[0058] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, a continuous annular contact portion 30b that contacts the convex spherical surface inner periphery 21b, which is the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a, is formed on the pressing member 30. Thereby, the contact portion 30b can be increased. By increasing the contact portion 30b, the second holding member 20 can be stably pressed by the pressing member 30.

[0059] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, the surface of the contact portion 30b is a part of a spherical surface corresponding to the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a. Thereby, the occurrence of scratches on the second holding member 20 due to the contact of the pressing member 30 can be prevented. Therefore, the life of the pipe joint 1 can be extended.

[0060] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, a pipe first connection mechanism 10x for connecting to another pipe member is formed at the other end of the first holding member 10 on the side opposite to the one end where the concave spherical surface portion 10a is formed in the longitudinal direction. Thereby, the connection between the pipe member and the pipe joint 1 becomes easy. Therefore, the labor for constructing the pipe joint 1 can be reduced.

[0061] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, a pipe second connection mechanism 20x for connecting to another pipe member is formed at the other end of the second holding member 20 on the side opposite to the one end where the convex spherical surface portion 21a is formed in the longitudinal direction. Thereby, the connection between the pipe member and the pipe joint 1 becomes easy. Therefore, the labor for constructing the pipe joint 1 can be reduced.

[0062] In the pipe joint 1 according to Embodiment 1, a tool connection portion 30h to which a fastening tool is connected is formed on the end surface of the pressing member 30. Thereby, the manufacture of the pipe joint 1 becomes easy. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the pipe joint 1 can be further suppressed.

[0063] Embodiment 2. In Embodiment 2, the shape of the pressing member 30 is different from that in Embodiment 1. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressing member 30 in Embodiment 2.

[0064] The shape of the contact portion 30a is a disk shape centered on the axis 30L. The outer diameter of the contact portion 30a is larger than the outer diameter of the shaft portion 50. Among the edge portions of the outer periphery of the contact portion 30a, the edge portion on the shaft portion 50 side becomes the contact location 30b.

[0065] Among the edge portions of the outer periphery of the contact portion 30a, a curved surface is formed on the edge portion on the shaft portion 50 side. That is, the contact location 30b is composed of a curved surface. Since the edge portion of the outer periphery of the disk-shaped contact portion 30a that contacts the concave spherical surface that is the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion is the contact location 30b, the shape of the contact location 30b is a continuous annular shape. Other configurations of the pipe joint 1 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the description thereof is omitted.

[0066] Note that the contact location 30b in the second embodiment is composed of a curved surface. However, it is not limited to this. For example, as the curved surface constituting the contact location 30b, a part of the spherical surface corresponding to the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion may be adopted. Thereby, deformation of the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion due to the contact of the contact location 30b can be prevented.

[0067] In the pipe joint 1 according to the second embodiment, the contact location 30b is composed of a curved surface. Thereby, generation of scratches on the second holding member 20 due to the contact of the pressing member 30 can be prevented. Therefore, the life of the pipe joint 1 can be extended. Also, thereby, the frictional force between the second holding member 20 and the pressing member 30 is not increased. That is, by setting the contact location 30b to a smooth surface, the frictional force between the second holding member 20 and the pressing member 30 can be made appropriate. Therefore, the movement of the second holding member 20 relative to the first holding member 10 becomes smooth, and the handling of the pipe joint 1 can be facilitated.

[0068] Embodiment 3. In the third embodiment, the shape of the pressing member 30 is different from that of the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressing member 30 in the third embodiment.

[0069] Among the edge portions on the outer periphery of the contact portion 30a, a slope that is a part of the surface of a cone is formed on the edge portion on the shaft portion 50 side. That is, the contact portion 30b is composed of a slope.

[0070] The inclination angle of the slope of the contact portion 30a is an angle corresponding to the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion with which the contact portion 30b comes into contact. Since other configurations of the pipe joint 1 of the third embodiment are the same as those of the second embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

[0071] Embodiment 4. In the fourth embodiment, the shape of the pressing member 30 is different from that of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressing member 30 in the fourth embodiment. The pressing member 30 includes a pressing member main body 31 and a plurality of contact members 32.

[0072] The pressing member main body 31 is a tubular member. A pressing member through hole 30d is formed in the pressing member main body 31. The axis of the pressing member through hole 30d, the pressing member main body 31, and the longitudinal axis of the pressing member 30 are defined as axis 30L.

[0073] A shaft portion 50 is formed on one end side of the pressing member main body 31. A contact portion 30a is formed on the other end side, which is opposite to one end of the pressing member main body 31.

[0074] The pressing member through hole 30d penetrates the center of the shaft portion 50 and opens at the end. The opening of the pressing member through hole 30d at the end of the shaft portion 50 is defined as a pressing member opening 30c. A shaft portion screw 50a, which is a screw, is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion 50.

[0075] The shape of the contact portion 30a is a disk shape centered on the axis 30L. The outer diameter of the contact portion 30a is larger than the outer diameter of the shaft portion 50. Among the edge portions on the outer periphery of the contact portion 30a, a contact member recess 30e is formed on the edge portion on the shaft portion 50 side.

[0076] One or more contact members 32 are fitted and held in the plurality of recesses 30e for contact members. For example, one contact member 32 may be held in one recess 30e for contact member. Also, for example, a groove-shaped recess 30e for contact member may be formed along the outer periphery of the contact portion 30a. In this case, a plurality of contact members 32 may be held in one recess 30e for contact member.

[0077] Each contact member 32 is a sphere. Each contact member 32 is rotatably held in the corresponding recess 30e for contact member.

[0078] Each contact member 32 may be, for example, fitted into the recess 30e for contact member and held in the recess 30e for contact member using a lid member (not shown). Each contact member 32 is rotatably held in the recess 30e for contact member.

[0079] The surface of each contact member 32 contacts the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion as the contact portion 30b. That is, a plurality of contact portions 30b are formed by the surfaces of the plurality of contact members 32. Since the other configurations of the pipe joint 1 of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

[0080] In the pipe joint 1 according to the fourth embodiment, the pressing member 30 includes a pressing member main body 31 and a plurality of contact members 32 rotatably held by the pressing member main body 31, and each of the plurality of contact portions 30b is a part of the surface of each of the plurality of contact members 32. Thereby, the number of contact portions 30b can be increased without excessively increasing the frictional force between the second holding member 20 and the pressing member 30. By increasing the number of contact portions 30b, the second holding member 20 can be stably pressed by the pressing member 30, and the frictional force between the second holding member 20 and the pressing member 30 can be made appropriate, so that the movement of the second holding member 20 relative to the first holding member 10 becomes smooth, and the handling of the pipe joint 1 can be facilitated. Also, this can prevent the occurrence of scratches on the second holding member 20 due to the contact of the pressing member 30. Therefore, the service life of the pipe joint 1 can be extended.

[0081] Embodiment 5. In Embodiment 5, the shape of the contact portion 30a is different from that in Embodiment 1. FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing the pressing member 30 in Embodiment 5. In FIG. 11, a state of the pressing member 30 viewed from the contact portion 30a side along the axis 30L is shown.

[0082] The shape of the contact portion 30a is a plate-like shape having three outer end portions 30f. When viewed along the axis 30L, the shape of the contact portion 30a is a Y shape. That is, the shape of the contact portion 30a is a shape having three outer end portions 30f which are portions protruding in three directions around the axis 30L.

[0083] Contact points 30b are provided at the tips of the respective outer end portions 30f. That is, a plurality of contact points 30b exist. Each of the contact points 30b is provided at a location equidistant from the axis 30L.

[0084] Each of the contact points 30b, that is, each of the tips of the three outer end portions 30f, exists on a single circumference centered on the axis 30L. When the diameter of a single circle centered on the axis 30L where each of the contact points 30b exists is defined as the outer diameter of the contact portion 30a, the outer diameter of the contact portion 30a is larger than the outer diameter of the shaft portion 50.

[0085] Note that although the shape of the contact portion 30a when viewed along the axis 30L is a Y shape, it may be an equilateral triangle. Further, although there are three contact points 30b, the contact point 30b may be one, and further, a plurality of contact points 30b are preferable.

[0086] When there are a plurality of contact points 30b, each of the contact points 30b may be provided at a location equidistant from the axis 30L and at the edge portion of the outer periphery of the contact portion 30a.

[0087] If the contact points 30b are provided as described above, the shape of the contact portion 30a can be freely designed. Since the other configurations of the pipe joint 1 of Embodiment 5 are the same as those of Embodiment 1, the description thereof is omitted.

[0088] In the pipe joint 1 according to the first embodiment, the pressing member 30 is formed with a plurality of contact portions 30b that are in contact with the convex spherical surface inner periphery 21b, which is the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion 21a. Thereby, the second holding member 20 can be firmly pressed by the pressing member 30. Therefore, a more stable pipe joint 1 can be provided. Further, by pressing the second holding member 20 with the plurality of contact portions 30b, the contact area between the second holding member 20 and the pressing member 30 can be appropriately set, and the frictional force is not increased. That is, by appropriately setting the number of the contact portions 30b, the frictional force between the second holding member 20 and the pressing member 30 can be made appropriate. Therefore, the movement of the second holding member 20 with respect to the first holding member 10 becomes smooth, and the handling of the pipe joint 1 can be facilitated.

[0089] Embodiment 6. In the pipe joint 1 of the sixth embodiment, the shapes of the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are different from those of the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the pipe joint 1 in the sixth embodiment. In FIG. 12, a cross-sectional view corresponding to the cross section along the line II-II in FIG. 1 is shown.

[0090] Inside the concave spherical surface portion 10a of the first holding member 10, a shaft portion 50 having the axis 10L as the central axis is formed. That is, the shaft portion 50 is formed so as to project inside the concave spherical surface portion 10a.

[0091] A first through hole 10d is continuously formed in the shaft portion 50. A shaft portion screw 50a is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion 50.

[0092] The pressing member through hole 30d of the pressing member 30 functions as a connection hole portion 60. A connection hole portion screw 60a is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the pressing member through hole 30d that is the connection hole portion 60.

[0093] The pressing member 30 is entirely formed as a contact portion 30a. The outer shape of the contact portion 30a presents a part of a sphere centered on the axis 30L. The outer peripheral surface of the contact portion 30a is a convex spherical surface that is the surface of the said sphere. At least a part of the spherical surface of the outer peripheral surface of the contact portion 30a is the contact location 30b.

[0094] Inside the concave spherical surface portion 10a of the first holding member 10, the convex spherical surface portion 21a of the second holding member body 21 is fitted so that the shaft portion 50 passes through the second opening 21c. Inside the second through hole 21d of the second holding member body 21 with the convex spherical surface portion 21a fitted inside the concave spherical surface portion 10a, the pressing member 30 is inserted.

[0095] The pressing member 30 is inserted into the second through hole 21d such that the spherical surface which is the outer peripheral surface of the contact portion 30a corresponds to the inner peripheral surface 21b of the convex spherical surface portion.

[0096] The shaft portion 50 and the pressing member through hole 30d which is the connection hole portion 60 are fitted together, and the first holding member 10 and the pressing member 30 are fixed. That is, the shaft portion screw 50a of the shaft portion 50 and the connection hole portion screw 60a of the connection hole portion 60 are tightened together and fixed.

[0097] In this way, the first holding member 10, the second holding member 20, and the pressing member 30 are respectively connected and fixed to constitute the pipe joint 1. Note that since the maximum outer diameter of the contact portion 30a is larger than the inner diameter of the second opening 21c, the second holding member 20 does not come off from the first holding member 10 beyond the contact portion 30a.

[0098] That is, as shown in the pipe joint 1 of Embodiment 1 and the pipe joint 1 of Embodiment 6, a shaft portion may be formed on either the first holding member 10 or the pressing member 30. That is, when either the first holding member 10 or the pressing member 30 is defined as the first member and the other is defined as the second member, the shaft portion 50 is formed on the first member, and the shaft portion 50 is not formed on the second member. And when at least a part of either the through hole of the second member, that is, the first through hole 10d or the pressing member through hole 30d, is defined as the connection hole portion 60, the shaft portion 50 inserted into the second opening portion 21c is inserted into the connection hole portion 60.

[0099] Since the other configurations of the pipe joint 1 of Embodiment 6 are the same as those of Embodiment 1, the description thereof is omitted.

[0100] Note that the pipe joint 1 in Embodiments 1 to 6 has a waterproof function. However, it is not limited to this. The pipe joint 1 may not have a waterproof function. Thereby, it is not necessary to impart waterproof performance between the first holding member 10 and the second holding member 20, and the manufacturing cost of the pipe joint 1 can be further suppressed.

[0101] In addition, each of the configurations described in Embodiments 1 to 6 can be adapted to other embodiments.

[0102] Hereinafter, aspects of the present disclosure will be summarized as appendices.

[0103] (Appendix 1) A first holding member (10) having a first through hole (10d), A second holding member (20) having a second holding member body (21) having a second through hole (21d), A pressing member (30) having a pressing member through hole (30d), On one open end of the first holding member (10), a concave spherical surface portion (10a) having an inner peripheral surface formed as a concave spherical surface is formed, On one opening end of the second holding member body (21), a convex spherical surface portion (21a) with a convex outer peripheral surface is formed. The inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion (10a) and the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a) are arranged to face each other. The pressing member (30) is inserted into the second holding member body (21). The first holding member (10) and the pressing member (30) are connected in a state where the convex spherical surface portion (21a) is sandwiched between the concave spherical surface portion (10a) and the pressing member (30). The first through hole (10d), the second through hole (21d), and the pressing member through hole (30d) are continuous. Pipe joint. (Appendix 2) When one opening of the second through hole (21d) of the second holding member body (21) is defined as the second opening portion (21c), the periphery of the second opening portion (21c) is surrounded by the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a). At least a part of either the pressing member (30) or the first holding member (10) passes through the second opening portion (21c). The pipe joint according to Appendix 1. (Appendix 3) When either one of the first holding member (10) and the pressing member (30) is defined as the first member and the other is defined as the second member, A shaft portion (50) is formed on the first member. A shaft portion (50) is not formed on the second member. When at least a part of the through holes (10d, 30d) of the second member is defined as a connection hole portion (60), The shaft portion (50) inserted into the second opening portion (21c) is inserted into the connection hole portion (60). The pipe joint according to Appendix 2. (Appendix 4) A shaft portion thread (50a) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion (50). On the inner peripheral surface of the connection hole portion (60), a connection hole portion screw (60a) corresponding to the shaft portion screw (50a) is formed. The first holding member (10) and the pressing member (30) are connected to each other when the shaft portion (50) is screwed into the connection hole portion (60). The pipe joint according to Addendum 3. (Addendum 5) The first holding member (10) and the second holding member (20) can relatively bend and move such that their axes (10L, 20L) are aligned or bent. The first holding member (10) and the second holding member (20) can rotate relative to each other about the axes (10L, 20L) of the other party. The pipe joint according to any one of Addenda 1 to 4. (Addendum 6) At least a part of the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion (10a) and at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a) are in continuous contact with each other. The pipe joint according to any one of Addenda 1 to 5. (Addendum 7) The second holding member (20) further includes a waterproof member (22). The waterproof member (22) is in continuous contact with at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a) and at least a part of the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion (10a) as at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a). The pipe joint according to Addendum 6. (Addendum 8) The waterproof member (22) is an annular member. On the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a), a continuous holding groove (21e) is formed. The waterproof member (22) is fitted and held in the holding groove (21e). The pipe joint according to Addendum 7. (Addendum 9) On the pressing member (30), a plurality of contact portions (30b) that are in contact with the convex spherical surface portion inner peripheral surface (21b) which is the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a) are formed. The pipe joint according to any one of Appendices 1 to 8. (Appendix 10) The pressing member (30) includes a pressing member main body (31) and a plurality of contact members (32) rotatably held by the pressing member main body (31). Each of the plurality of contact portions (30b) is a part of the surface of each of the plurality of contact members (32). The pipe joint according to Appendix 9. (Appendix 11) A continuous annular contact portion (30b) that contacts the convex spherical surface inner peripheral surface (21b), which is the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a), is formed on the pressing member (30). The pipe joint according to any one of Appendices 1 to 8. (Appendix 12) The contact portion (30b) is formed of a curved surface. The pipe joint according to any one of Appendices 9 to 11. (Appendix 13) The surface of the contact portion (30b) is a part of a spherical surface corresponding to the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a). The pipe joint according to any one of Appendices 9, 11, or 12. (Appendix 14) A pipe first connection mechanism (10x) for connecting to another pipe member is formed at the other end of the first holding member (10) in the longitudinal direction, which is opposite to the end where the concave spherical surface portion (10a) is formed. The pipe joint according to any one of Appendices 1 to 13. (Appendix 15) A pipe second connection mechanism (20x) for connecting to another pipe member is formed at the other end of the second holding member in the longitudinal direction, which is opposite to the end where the convex spherical surface portion (21a) is formed. The pipe joint according to any one of Appendices 1 to 14. (Appendix 16) A tool connection portion (30h) to which a fastening tool is connected is formed on the end surface of the pressing member (30). The pipe joint according to any one of Appendices 1 to 15.

Description of Symbols

[0104] 1 Pipe Joint, 10 First Holding Member, 10a Concave Spherical Surface Portion, 10d First Through Hole, 10L Axis, 10x Pipe First Connection Mechanism, 20 Second Holding Member, 20L Axis, 20x Pipe Second Connection Mechanism, 21 Second Holding Member Body, 21a Convex Spherical Surface Portion, 21b Inner Peripheral Surface of Convex Spherical Surface Portion, 21c Second Opening, 21d Second Through Hole, 21e Holding Groove, 22 Waterproof Member, 30 Suppressing Member, 30a Contact Portion, 30b Contact Location, 30c Suppressing Portion Opening, 30d Suppressing Member Through Hole, 30e Concave Portion for Contact Member, 30f Outer End Portion, 30h Tool Connection Portion, 30L Axis, 31 Suppressing Member Body, 32 Contact Member, 50 Shaft Portion, 50a Shaft Portion Thread, 60 Connection Hole Portion, 60a Connection Hole Portion Thread.

Claims

1. A first holding member (10) having a first through hole (10d); A second holding member (20) having a second holding member body (21) with a second through hole (21d); A pressing member (30) having a pressing member through hole (30d), and comprising: At one opening end of the first holding member (10), a concave spherical portion (10a) is formed with an inner circumferential surface formed as a concave spherical surface; At one opening end of the second holding member body (21), a convex spherical portion (21a) is formed with an outer circumferential surface formed as a convex spherical surface; The inner circumferential surface of the concave spherical portion (10a) and the outer circumferential surface of the convex spherical portion (21a) are arranged to face each other; The pressing member (30) is inserted into the second holding member body (21); The first holding member (10) and the pressing member (30) are connected in a state where the convex spherical portion (21a) is sandwiched between the concave spherical portion (10a) and the pressing member (30); The first through hole (10d), the second through hole (21d), and the pressing member through hole (30d) are continuous; A pipe joint.

2. When one opening of the second through hole (21d) of the second holding member body (21) is defined as a second opening (21c), the periphery of the second opening (21c) is surrounded by the outer circumferential surface of the convex spherical portion (21a); At least a part of either one of the pressing member (30) and the first holding member (10) passes through the second opening (21c); The pipe joint according to Claim 1.

3. When either one of the first holding member (10) and the pressing member (30) is defined as a first member and the other is defined as a second member: A shaft portion (50) is formed on the first member; No shaft portion (50) is formed on the second member; When at least a part of the through holes (10d, 30d) of the second member is defined as a connection hole portion (60): The shaft portion (50) inserted into the second opening (21c) is inserted into the connection hole portion (60); The pipe joint according to Claim 2.

4. A shaft portion thread (50a) is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the shaft portion (50); A connection hole portion thread (60a) corresponding to the shaft portion thread (50a) is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the connection hole portion (60); The first holding member (10) and the pressing member (30) are connected to each other by screwing the shaft portion (50) into the connection hole portion (60). The pipe joint according to claim 3.

5. The first holding member (10) and the second holding member (20) can relatively bend and move such that their axes (10L, 20L) are aligned or bent. The first holding member (10) and the second holding member (20) can rotate about the axes (10L, 20L) of each other. The pipe joint according to claim 1.

6. At least a part of the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion (10a) and at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a) are in continuous contact with each other. The pipe joint according to claim 1.

7. The second holding member (20) further includes a waterproof member (22). The waterproof member (22) is in continuous contact with at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a) and at least a part of the inner peripheral surface of the concave spherical surface portion (10a) as at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a). The pipe joint according to claim 6.

8. The waterproof member (22) is an annular member. A continuous holding groove (21e) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a). The waterproof member (22) is fitted and held in the holding groove (21e). The pipe joint according to claim 7.

9. A plurality of contact portions (30b) that are in contact with the convex spherical surface inner peripheral surface (21b) which is the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a) are formed on the pressing member (30). The pipe joint according to claim 1.

10. The pressing member (30) includes a pressing member main body (31) and a plurality of contact members (32) that are rotatably held by the pressing member main body (31). Each of the plurality of contact portions (30b) is a part of the surface of each of the plurality of contact members (32). The pipe joint according to claim 9.

11. A continuous annular contact portion (30b) that is in contact with the convex spherical surface inner peripheral surface (21b) which is the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a) is formed on the pressing member (30). The pipe joint according to claim 1.

12. The contact portion (30b) is composed of a curved surface. The pipe joint according to claim 9.

13. The surface of the contact portion (30b) is a part of a spherical surface corresponding to the inner peripheral surface of the convex spherical surface portion (21a). The pipe joint according to claim 9.

14. On the other end of the first holding member (10) in the longitudinal direction, which is opposite to the one end where the concave spherical surface portion (10a) is formed, a first pipe connection mechanism (10x) for connecting to other pipe members is formed. The pipe joint according to claim 1.

15. On the other end of the second holding member in the longitudinal direction, which is opposite to the one end where the convex spherical surface portion (21a) is formed, a second pipe connection mechanism (20x) for connecting to other pipe members is formed. The pipe joint according to claim 1.

16. On the end face of the pressing member (30), a tool connection portion (30h) to which a fastening tool is connected is formed. The pipe joint according to claim 1.

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