Ventilator

Abstract

To suppress deterioration of airtightness of a container body in a ventilator.SOLUTION: A ventilator comprises: a lid (60) that opens and closes a ventilation opening (VO); a drive mechanism (70) that displaces the lid (60) between an open position and a closed position; a sealing member (65) formed between the lid (60) and a base part (47) in a position surrounding the ventilation opening (VO); and pressing units (77, 121, 122) that press the lid (60) against the base part (47).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to ventilation devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a ventilation device for a container. The ventilation device is provided in a refrigeration unit that cools the internal space of a container body. The ventilation device has a ventilation port, an opening / closing member that opens and closes the ventilation port, and a motor that drives the opening / closing member. When the opening / closing member opens the ventilation port, the internal space of the container body communicates with the external space through the ventilation port. This allows the internal space of the container body to be ventilated. When the opening / closing member closes the ventilation port, the container body, the internal space, and the external space are isolated from each other. In this way, the ventilation device of Patent Document 1 allows the ventilation port to be opened and closed automatically, rather than manually. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-222323 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a structure that automatically opens and closes a ventilation port, such as the ventilation device of Patent Document 1, a gap may form between the lid and the base when the lid is in the state where the ventilation port is closed. In this case, the inside and outside of the container body communicate through the gap, reducing the airtightness of the container body.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to suppress a decrease in the airtightness of a container body in a ventilation device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first aspect relates to a ventilation device, which includes a base (47) having a ventilation opening (VO) for communicating the inside and outside of a container body (2), a lid (60) for opening and closing the ventilation opening (VO), a drive mechanism (70) for displacing the lid (60) between an open position and a closed position, a sealing member (65) formed between the base (47) and the lid (60) at a position surrounding the ventilation opening (VO), and pressing members (77, 121, 122) for pressing the lid (60) against the base (47).

[0007] In the first aspect, the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) can press the lid (60) in the closed position toward the base portion (47). As a result, the sealing member (65) between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) is compressed, thereby improving the sealing performance of the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). This can prevent a decrease in the airtightness of the container body (2).

[0008] In a second aspect, in the first aspect, the pressing portion (77, 121, 122) is provided on the drive mechanism (70).

[0009] In the second aspect, the pressing parts (77, 121, 122) are provided in the drive mechanism (70), thereby making it possible to reduce the size of the ventilation device.

[0010] In a third aspect, in the second aspect, the drive mechanism (70) has a drive source (71) and a drive shaft (72) driven by the drive source (71), and the pressing portion (77, 121, 122) has a spring (77) provided along the drive shaft (72).

[0011] In a third embodiment, a spring 77 can bias the lid 60 in the closed position against the base 47. The spring 77 is located along the drive shaft 72, thereby enabling the ventilator to be compact.

[0012] In a fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, a protrusion (55) protruding toward the seal member (65) is provided between the lid (60) and the base (47).

[0013] In the fourth aspect, when the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) press the lid (60) against the base portion (47), the convex portions (55) and the sealing member (65) come into line contact with each other, thereby improving the sealing performance at the portion of the sealing member (65) where the convex portions (55) are located.

[0014] In a fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the pressing portion (77, 121, 122) is configured to press the central portion of the lid (60) toward the base portion (47). The protruding height of the convex portion (55) increases from the central portion of the lid (60) toward the outer edge of the lid (60).

[0015] In the fifth aspect, the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) press against the center of the lid (60), thereby preventing the pressing force acting on the lid (60) from becoming uneven. This configuration also reduces the pressing force on the outer edge of the lid (60). However, the protrusions (55) are configured so that the height of the protrusions toward the seal member (65) increases from the center of the lid (60) toward the outer edge. Therefore, the distance between the lid (60) and the protrusions (55) decreases from the center of the lid (60) toward the outer edge. This allows the compressive force acting on the seal member (65) to be uniform, thereby improving the sealing performance of the seal member (65).

[0016] In a sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) in a first direction so as to adjust the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47).

[0017] In the sixth aspect, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) in the first direction, thereby adjusting the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47), thereby adjusting the compressive force acting on the seal member (65).

[0018] In a seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, an opening (CO) is formed in the lid (60), and the drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60) so as to adjust the overlapping area between the opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO).

[0019] In the seventh aspect, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60), thereby adjusting the overlapping area between the opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO) of the lid (60). This allows adjustment of the ventilation volume. Here, the drive mechanism (70) can also adjust the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). Therefore, the lid (60) can be rotated with a relatively large distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). In this case, the lid (60) can be rotated while reducing the frictional force generated by the rotation of the lid (60).

[0020] In an eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the drive mechanism (70) includes a drive source (71) and a drive shaft (72) that is rotationally driven by the drive source (71). The drive mechanism (70) is configured to perform a rotational motion that rotates the lid (60) in association with the rotation of the drive shaft (72), and a reciprocating motion that moves the lid (60) back and forth in the first direction in association with the rotational motion of the drive shaft (72).

[0021] In the eighth embodiment, the drive mechanism (70) rotates and reciprocates the lid (60). When the lid (60) rotates, the overlapping area between the opening (CO) of the lid (60) and the ventilation opening (VO) is adjusted. When the lid (60) reciprocates, the gap between the lid (60) and the base (47) is adjusted.

[0022] In a ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the drive mechanism (70) includes a rod (73) connected to one of the drive shaft (72) and the lid (60), and a cam mechanism (80) connected to the other of the drive shaft (72) and the lid (60) and having a contact surface (82) with which the rod (73) comes into contact. The contact surface (82) includes a first transmission part (C1) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to cause the lid (60) to perform the rotational motion, and a second transmission part (C2) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to cause the lid (60) to perform the reciprocating motion.

[0023] In the ninth aspect, the rotation of the drive shaft (72) brings the rod (73) into contact with the first transmission part (C1) of the cam mechanism (80), causing the lid (60) to rotate. The rotation of the drive shaft (72) brings the rod (73) into contact with the second transmission part (C2) of the cam mechanism (80), causing the lid (60) to reciprocate.

[0024] In a tenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, a low-friction portion (73b) for reducing the friction force between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80) is provided.

[0025] In the tenth aspect, the low-friction portion (73b) reduces the friction force between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80), thereby suppressing wear on the rod (73) and the contact surface (82).

[0026] In an eleventh aspect, in the ninth or tenth aspect, three or more rods (73) are connected to the drive shaft (72).

[0027] In the eleventh aspect, the force acting between the rod (73) and the cam mechanism (80) can be dispersed, so that the rotational and reciprocating motion of the lid (60) can be stabilized.

[0028] In a twelfth aspect, in any one of the seventh to eleventh aspects, the drive mechanism (70) is configured to perform a first operation of moving the lid (60) from a first position, in which the sealing member (65) is compressed, to a second position that is farther from the base portion (47) than the first position, and a second operation of rotating the lid (60) to a predetermined rotation angle while maintaining the lid (60) at the second position after the first operation.

[0029] In the twelfth aspect, the first action moves the lid (60) from the first position to the second position, thereby increasing the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). This reduces the compressive force acting on the seal member (65). By performing the second action after the first action, the lid (60) can be rotated while reducing the frictional force generated by the rotation of the lid (60).

[0030] In a thirteenth aspect, in the twelfth aspect, the drive mechanism (70) is configured to perform a third operation after the second operation, in which the lid (60) is moved to the first position while maintaining the predetermined rotation angle.

[0031] In the thirteenth aspect, the third action is performed after the lid (60) reaches a predetermined rotation angle in the second action. In the third action, the lid (60) moves to the first position, thereby narrowing the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). This makes the lid (60) more stable than when the lid (60) is in the second position, thereby preventing the lid (60) from wobbling.

[0032] In a fourteenth aspect, the predetermined rotation angle includes a first rotation angle at which the ventilation opening (VO) is entirely closed by the cover (60).

[0033] In the fourteenth aspect, when the lid (60) reaches the first angular position by the second action, the lid (60) completely closes the ventilation opening (VO), and the ventilation opening (VO) is fully closed. In the subsequent third action, the lid (60) moves to the first position, thereby narrowing the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). This stabilizes the lid (60) compared to when the lid (60) is in the second position, thereby preventing the lid (60) from wobbling. In addition, the lid (60) being in the first position compresses the sealing member (65), thereby improving the sealing performance of the sealing member (65). This prevents air from leaking between the outside and the inside of the container body (2) when the lid (60) fully closes the ventilation opening (VO).

[0034] In a fifteenth aspect, in any one of the seventh to fourteenth aspects, the device further includes a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the rotation angle of the lid (60) reaches a set target value.

[0035] In the fifteenth aspect, the control unit (100) adjusts the drive mechanism (70) to change the rotation angle of the lid (60), thereby adjusting the overlapping area between the opening (CO) of the lid (60) and the ventilation opening (VO), and further adjusting the ventilation volume as desired.

[0036] A sixteenth aspect is any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, further comprising a refrigerant leakage sensor (110) that detects refrigerant leakage, and a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) to move the lid (60) to a closed position when the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) detects refrigerant leakage.

[0037] In the sixteenth aspect, when the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) detects a refrigerant leak, the drive mechanism (70) controlled by the control unit (100) moves the lid (60) to the closed position. This prevents the refrigerant from leaking through the ventilation opening (VO). Here, the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) press the lid (60) against the base portion (47), thereby preventing the refrigerant from leaking through the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0038] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a container refrigeration unit according to an embodiment, as seen from the front. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a container refrigeration unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a piping diagram of a container refrigeration unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the relationship between the control unit of the container refrigeration unit and other devices. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the ventilation device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front view of the ventilation device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the portion B1 in FIG. 7 surrounded by the dashed line. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the main part of the drive mechanism as seen from the rear side. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the main part of the drive mechanism. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a top view of the main part of the drive mechanism. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a front view of the edge forming member. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing the reciprocating motion of the drive mechanism. Figure 14(A) shows the state where the lid is in the first position. Figure 14(B) shows the state where the lid is in the second position during the first reciprocating motion. Figure 14(C) shows the state where the lid is in the second position during the second reciprocating motion. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing the rotational movement of the drive mechanism. Figure 15(A) shows the state where the lid is in the closed position. Figure 15(B) shows the state where the lid is in the intermediate position. Figure 15(C) shows the state where the lid is in the fully open position. [Figure 16]FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the basic operation of the ventilation device. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of the initialization control. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a front view of the ventilation device of the first modification. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIX-XIX in FIG. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing the reciprocating movement of the lid in Modification 1. Figure 20(A) shows the lid in a first position (closed position), and Figure 20(B) shows the lid in a second position (open position). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Since the drawings are intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary to facilitate understanding.

[0040] (1) Overall configuration of the container The ventilation device (40) is applied to a container (1). The overall configuration of the container (1) of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. In the following description, terms such as "front," "rear," "left," "right," "upper," and "lower" refer to the directions indicated by arrows in Figure 1.

[0041] The container (1) is used for marine transportation. The container (1) is a refrigerated container that cools the air inside the container (1). The container (1) has a container body (2) and a container refrigeration unit (10). The container body (2) stores objects such as food and plants. The container refrigeration unit (10) cools an interior space (3) that is the internal space of the container body (2). As shown in FIG. 2, a front opening (4) is formed in the front of the container body (2). The container refrigeration unit (10) is attached to the container body (2) so as to close the front opening (4) of the container body (2).

[0042] (2) Container refrigeration equipment The container refrigeration unit (10) has a casing (11). The casing (11) forms a lid for the front opening (4) of the container body (2). The casing (11) has a casing main body (12) and a partition plate (13). The casing main body (12) separates the container body (2) into an external space (5), which is the external space, and the internal space (3). The partition plate (13) is located on the back side (rear side) of the casing (11).

[0043] The container refrigeration system (10) has, as components arranged outside the container, a compressor (25), an external heat exchanger (26), and an external fan (27). The container refrigeration system (10) has, as components arranged inside the container, an internal heat exchanger (29) and an internal fan (30).

[0044] (2-1) Casing body As shown in FIG. 2, the casing body (12) has a flat plate portion (12a) and a recessed portion (12b). The flat plate portion (12a) is formed on the upper part of the casing body (12) so as to be substantially flush with the front opening (4) of the casing (11). As shown in FIG. 1, the flat plate portion (12a) is provided with an inspection window (22) and a ventilation device (40). The inspection window (22) is located on the right side of the flat plate portion (12a). The ventilation device (40) is located on the left side of the flat plate portion (12a). The inspection window (22) is a transparent window through which the inside of the casing body (12) can be seen. The ventilation device (40) ventilates the interior space (3).

[0045] The recess (12b) is formed in the lower part of the casing (11). The recess (12b) is recessed rearward from the lower end of the flat plate portion (12a). An external storage space (14) is formed in front of the recess (12b). An internal storage space (15) is formed above the recess (12b) and between the flat plate portion (12a) and the partition plate (13). The lower end of the recess (12b) forms a bottom plate (12c). The bottom plate (12c) extends to both the left and right ends of the casing body (12).

[0046] The casing body (12) is formed by laminating an external casing (16), a heat insulating layer (17), and an internal casing (18) in the thickness direction (front-rear direction). The external casing (16) faces the external space (5). The internal casing (18) faces the interior of the refrigerator. The heat insulating layer (17) is provided between the external casing (16) and the internal casing (18). The external casing (16) is made of aluminum material. The internal casing (18) is made of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP). The heat insulating layer (17) is made of foamed resin.

[0047] (2-2) Partition plate and air passage As shown in FIG. 2, the partition plate (13) is a plate-like member located on the rear side of the recessed portion (12b). The partition plate (13) extends in the vertical direction so as to be spaced a predetermined distance from the rear surface of the recessed portion (12b). An internal passage (19) through which internal air flows is formed between the casing body (12) and the partition plate (13). An inlet (20) is formed between the upper end of the partition plate (13) and the upper wall (2a) of the container body (2). The inlet (20) connects the internal space (3) with the inlet end of the internal passage (19). An outlet (21) is formed between the lower end of the partition plate (13) and the lower wall (2b) of the container body (2). The outlet (21) connects the internal space (3) with the outlet end of the internal passage (19).

[0048] (2-3) External space components The external storage space (14) is provided with a compressor (25), an external heat exchanger (26), and an external fan (27). The compressor (25) is installed on the bottom plate (12c) of the casing (11). The compressor (25) is disposed near the bottom of the external storage space (14). The compressor (25) is disposed near the right of the external storage space (14).

[0049] The external fan (27) is located near the upper part of the external storage space (14). The external fan (27) is a propeller fan. As shown in FIG. 2, an external passage (28) through which outside air flows is formed behind the external fan (27).

[0050] The external heat exchanger (26) is provided in the external storage space (14) at a height position between the external fan (27) and the compressor (25). The external heat exchanger (26) is located in the external passage (28). The external heat exchanger (26) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger.

[0051] (2-4) Interior space components An internal heat exchanger (29) and an internal fan (30) are provided in the internal storage space (15). The internal heat exchanger (29) is supported by the casing (11) so as to span the casing body (12) and the partition plate (13). The internal heat exchanger (29) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger.

[0052] (2-5) Refrigerant circuit As shown in Figure 3, the container refrigeration unit (10) has a refrigerant circuit (R). The refrigerant circuit (R) is filled with a refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit (R) performs a vapor compression refrigeration cycle by circulating the refrigerant.

[0053] The refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (R) has a density greater than that of air. In this example, the refrigerant is carbon dioxide (CO2), a natural refrigerant. Natural refrigerants have zero ozone depletion potential, low global warming potential, and low environmental impact. The refrigerant may be propane (R290), ammonia (R717), methane (R50), ethane (R170), butane (R600), or isobutane (R600a). The refrigerant may be difluoromethane (R32), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234yf), or 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234ze). The refrigerant may be a single refrigerant or a mixed refrigerant containing other refrigerants. The mixed refrigerant may be a refrigerant consisting of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234yf) and difluoromethane (R32). The mixed refrigerant may be a two-component refrigerant (R454C) consisting of 78.5% by weight of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234yf) and 21.5% by weight of difluoromethane (R32).

[0054] The refrigerant circuit (R) mainly includes a compressor (25), an external heat exchanger (26), an expansion valve (31), and an internal heat exchanger (29).

[0055] The compressor (25) compresses the drawn refrigerant. The compressor (25) discharges the compressed refrigerant. A discharge pipe (32) is connected to a discharge portion of the compressor (25). A suction pipe (33) is connected to a suction portion of the compressor (25). An accumulator (34) is provided in the suction pipe (33). The accumulator (34) is a container for storing liquid refrigerant.

[0056] The external heat exchanger (26) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing therethrough and the external air. The gas end of the external heat exchanger (26) communicates with the discharge pipe (32). The liquid end of the external heat exchanger (26) is connected to the liquid end of the internal heat exchanger (29) via a liquid pipe (35). The external heat exchanger (26) functions as a radiator (condenser) that radiates heat from the refrigerant to the air.

[0057] The expansion valve (31) is provided in the liquid pipe (35). The expansion valve (31) reduces the pressure of high-pressure refrigerant to low-pressure refrigerant. The expansion valve (31) is an electronic expansion valve with an adjustable opening. A receiver (36) is provided in the liquid pipe (35) between the external heat exchanger (26) and the expansion valve (31). The receiver (36) is a container for storing excess refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (R).

[0058] The internal heat exchanger (29) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing therethrough and the internal air. The gas end of the internal heat exchanger (29) communicates with the suction pipe (33). The internal heat exchanger (29) functions as an evaporator in which the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air.

[0059] The refrigerant circuit (R) has a bypass pipe (37). An inflow end of the bypass pipe (37) communicates with the discharge pipe (32), and an outflow end of the bypass pipe (37) communicates with the liquid pipe (35). The bypass pipe (37) sends the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (25) to the internal heat exchanger (29), bypassing the external heat exchanger (26).

[0060] The refrigerant circuit (R) is provided with a first valve (38) and a second valve (39). The first valve (38) is provided between the discharge side of the compressor (25) and the gas end of the external heat exchanger (26), and downstream of the connection portion of the bypass pipe (37). The second valve (39) is provided in the bypass pipe (37). The first valve (38) and the second valve (39) are formed by solenoid on-off valves. The first valve (38) and the second valve (39) may be flow control valves whose opening degrees are adjustable.

[0061] (2-6) Driving behavior The container refrigeration system (10) performs a cooling operation and a defrosting operation.

[0062] During the cooling operation, a refrigeration cycle is performed in which refrigerant compressed by the compressor (25) is condensed in the external heat exchanger (26), reduced in pressure by the expansion valve (31), and evaporated in the internal heat exchanger (29). Air flowing out from the internal space (3) into the internal passage (19) is cooled by the internal heat exchanger (29) functioning as an evaporator. The cooled air is sent to the internal space (3).

[0063] During the defrosting operation, the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (25) flows through the bypass pipe (37) and then through the internal heat exchanger (29). The frost on the surface of the internal heat exchanger (29) melts due to the heat of the refrigerant flowing through the internal heat exchanger (29).

[0064] (3) Ventilation equipment The ventilation device (40) will be described in detail below. In the following description, the "axial direction" corresponds to the direction extending along the axis (X) of the drive shaft (72). The "circumferential direction" corresponds to the direction of rotation of the drive shaft (72). The "radial direction" corresponds to the direction connecting the axis (X) of the drive shaft (72) and the outer circumferential surface of the drive shaft (72).

[0065] (3-1) Overall structure 5 to 7 is a container ventilation device that ventilates the internal space (3) of the container body (2). The ventilation device (40) of this embodiment has an air supply function that supplies outside air, which is outdoor air, to the internal space (3) and an exhaust function that exhausts the internal air to the external space (5).

[0066] As shown in Fig. 2, the ventilation device (40) is provided in a ventilation mounting opening (6) formed in the front surface of the casing body (12). The ventilation mounting opening (6) penetrates the casing body (12) from front to rear. The ventilation mounting opening (6) is formed through the exterior casing (16), the heat insulating layer (17), and the interior casing (18).

[0067] The ventilation device (40) is formed with an air supply passage (P1) and an exhaust passage (P2). The air supply passage (P1) and the exhaust passage (P2) communicate between the internal space (3) and the external space (5). Specifically, the inflow end of the air supply passage (P1) communicates with the external space (5). The outflow end of the air supply passage (P1) communicates with the primary side (upstream side) of the internal fan (30) in the internal passage (19). The inflow end of the exhaust passage (P2) communicates with the secondary side (downstream side) of the internal fan (30) in the internal passage (19). The outflow end of the exhaust passage (P2) communicates with the external space (5).

[0068] As shown in Figures 5 and 7, the ventilation device (40) has, from the rear to the front, a ventilation case (41), a drive mechanism (70), an air intake duct (45), an exhaust duct (46), a base portion (47), an edge forming member (50), a gasket (65), and a lid (60).

[0069] (3-2) Ventilation case The ventilation case (41) houses the drive mechanism (70), the air intake duct (45), and the exhaust duct (46). The ventilation case (41) has a rectangular cylindrical frame (41a), a side plate (41b) that closes the rear opening of the frame (41a), and a flange (41c) that extends radially outward from the front edge of the frame (41a). The frame (41a) is embedded inside the heat insulating layer (17). The side plate (41b) has a rectangular plate shape. A case-side air intake opening (42) is formed in the upper part of the side plate (41b). A case-side exhaust opening (43) is formed in the lower part of the side plate (41b). The case-side air intake opening (42) and the case-side exhaust opening (43) are rectangular and laterally elongated.

[0070] The case-side air intake opening (42) constitutes a part of the air intake passage (P1). The case-side air intake opening (42) opens toward the primary side (upstream side) of the internal fan (30) in the internal passage (19). The case-side exhaust opening (43) constitutes a part of the exhaust passage (P2). The case-side exhaust opening (43) opens toward the secondary side (downstream side) of the internal fan (30) in the internal passage (19).

[0071] A storage frame (44) is provided in the center of the side plate (41b). The storage frame (44) is cylindrical and protrudes forward from the side plate (41b). A drive mechanism (70) is disposed inside the storage frame (44).

[0072] (3-3) Air supply duct and exhaust duct The air intake duct (45) constitutes a part of the air intake passage (P1). The air exhaust duct (46) constitutes a part of the air exhaust passage (P2). The air intake duct (45) and the air exhaust duct (46) are housed inside the ventilation case (41). The air intake duct (45) and the air exhaust duct (46) are tubular and elongated from side to side. The air intake duct (45) and the air exhaust duct (46) have a passage cross-section that decreases toward the front. The air intake duct (45) is attached to the side plate (41b) so as to connect with the case-side air intake opening (42). The air exhaust duct (46) is attached to the side plate (41b) so as to connect with the case-side air exhaust opening (43).

[0073] (3-4) Base The base portion (47) closes the front opening of the ventilation case (41). The base portion (47) faces the external space (5) and constitutes a part of the external casing (16). The base portion (47) is made of aluminum. The base portion (47) has a rectangular plate-shaped base plate (47a) and a circular base-side recess (47b) recessed rearward from the center of the base plate (47a). The base plate (47a) is fastened to the flange (41c) of the ventilation case (41). The base plate (47a) is exposed to the external space (5).

[0074] A flat cylindrical space is formed in the front and rear of the base-side recess (47b). An air inlet (48) and an air outlet (49) are formed in the bottom, which is the rear portion of the base-side recess (47b). The air inlet (48) and the air outlet (49) are formed around the axis (X). The air inlet (48) is formed in the upper portion of the base-side recess (47b), and the air outlet (49) is formed in the lower portion of the base-side recess (47b). The air inlet (48) and the air outlet (49) are generally fan-shaped. The air inlet (48) and the air outlet (49) extend in the circumferential direction. The air inlet (48) and the air outlet (49) are positioned opposite each other across the axis (X).

[0075] The air inlet (48) is connected to the air supply duct (45). The air inlet (48) constitutes a part of the air supply passage (P1). The air outlet (49) is connected to the air exhaust duct (46). The air exhaust port (49) constitutes a part of the air exhaust passage (P2). The air inlet (48) and the air exhaust port (49) constitute a ventilation opening (VO) for communicating the internal space (3) of the container body (2) with the external space (5).

[0076] A first insertion hole (47c) is formed in the center of the bottom of the base-side recess (47b). The first insertion hole (47c) has a circular shape.

[0077] (3-5) Edge forming member The edge forming member (50) functions to improve the sealing performance of the packing (65). The edge forming member (50) is disposed between the base portion (47) and the packing (65). The edge forming member (50) is made of a resin material such as ABS resin. The edge forming member (50) has a cylindrical boss portion (51) that fits into the first insertion hole (47c) and an edge forming plate (52) that extends radially outward from the front end of the boss portion (51). In this embodiment, the edge forming member (50) is fixed to the base portion (47).

[0078] The edge forming plate (52) has a disk portion (52a) and a first extending portion (52b) and a second extending portion (52c) extending radially outward from the disk portion (52a). The disk portion (52a) is formed in the center of the edge forming plate (52). When viewed in the axial direction, the disk portion (52a) is circular, and the first extending portion (52b) and the second extending portion (52c) are generally fan-shaped or arc-shaped. The first extending portion (52b) and the second extending portion (52c) are disposed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The first extending portion (52b) and the second extending portion (52c) are positioned opposite each other across the axis (X).

[0079] A second insertion hole (52d) is formed in the disk portion (52a). The second insertion hole (52d) has a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction.

[0080] An air intake communication port (53) is formed in the first extension portion (52b), and an exhaust communication port (54) is formed in the second extension portion (52c). The air intake communication port (53) has substantially the same shape and size as the air intake port (48). The air intake communication port (53) overlaps with the air intake port (48) in the axial direction. The exhaust communication port (54) has substantially the same shape and size as the exhaust port (49). The exhaust communication port (54) overlaps with the exhaust port (49) in the axial direction. As shown in FIG. 6, a protrusion (55) is formed on the front surface of the edge forming plate (52). The protrusion (55) will be described in detail below.

[0081] (3-6) Lid The lid (60) is disposed inside the base-side recess (47b) so as to face the external space (5). The lid (60) opens and closes the air intake port (48) and the air exhaust port (49), which are ventilation ports. The lid (60) is disk-shaped and has an axis (X) as its center. The lid (60) is driven by a drive mechanism (70) to perform rotational and reciprocating motions. In the rotational motion, the lid (60) rotates around the axis (X). In the reciprocating motion, the lid (60) moves axially along the axis (X). The lid (60) is made of, for example, aluminum.

[0082] The lid (60) is formed with a lid-side air intake opening (61) and a lid-side exhaust opening (62), which are openings. The lid-side air intake opening (61) and the lid-side exhaust opening (62) are generally fan-shaped. The lid-side air intake opening (61) and the lid-side exhaust opening (62) extend in the circumferential direction. The lid-side air intake opening (61) and the lid-side exhaust opening (62) are positioned opposite each other across the axis (X). The lid-side air intake opening (61) has substantially the same shape and size as the air intake port (48) and the air intake communication port (53). The lid-side exhaust opening (62) has substantially the same shape and size as the exhaust port (49) and the exhaust communication port (54).

[0083] The lid-side air intake opening (61) is configured to be able to communicate with the air intake port (48) and the air intake communication port (53) as the lid (60) rotates. The lid-side exhaust opening (62) is configured to be able to communicate with the exhaust port (49) and the exhaust communication port (54) as the lid (60) rotates. The lid-side air intake opening (61) constitutes a part of the air intake passage (P1), and the lid-side exhaust opening (62) constitutes a part of the exhaust passage (P2). The lid-side air intake opening (61) and the lid-side exhaust opening (62) constitute a lid-side opening (CO) whose overlapping area with the ventilation opening (VO) is adjustable.

[0084] (3-7) Gasket The packing (65) is disposed inside the base-side recess (47b). The packing (65) is formed between the base (47) and the lid (60) at a position surrounding the air intake port (48) and the air exhaust port (49), which are ventilation openings. Strictly speaking, the packing (65) is disposed between the lid (60) and the edge forming plate (52) at a position surrounding the air intake communication port (53) and the air exhaust communication port (54). The packing (65) seals the gap between the lid (60) and the base (47). The sealing member (65) prevents the external space (5) and the internal space (3) from communicating with each other through the gap.

[0085] The packing (65) is disk-shaped and centered on the axis (X). The packing (65) is fixed to the rear surface of the lid (60). The packing (65) is made of an elastic resin material. The packing (65) is elastically deformed when compressed in the axial direction (thickness direction). The packing (65) is preferably a closed-cell foam, and is made of, for example, polyethylene foam.

[0086] The packing (65) is formed with a packing-side air intake opening (66), a packing-side exhaust opening (67), and a central hole (68). The packing-side air intake opening (66) is substantially the same in shape and size as the lid-side air intake opening (61). When the packing (65) is fixed to the rear side of the lid (60), the entire lid-side air intake opening (61) and the entire packing-side air intake opening (66) overlap in the axial direction. The packing-side exhaust opening (67) is substantially the same in shape and size as the lid-side exhaust opening (62). When the packing (65) is fixed to the rear side of the lid (60), the entire lid-side exhaust opening (62) and the entire packing-side exhaust opening (67) overlap in the axial direction. The central hole (68) is substantially the same in shape and size as the first insertion hole (47c) and the second insertion hole (52d). The central hole (68) overlaps with the first insertion hole (47c) and the second insertion hole (52d) in the axial direction.

[0087] The packing (65) is configured to be rotatable together with the lid (60). The packing-side air intake opening (66) is configured to be able to communicate with the air intake port (48) and the air intake communication port (53) as the lid (60) rotates. The packing-side exhaust opening (67) is configured to be able to communicate with the exhaust port (49) and the exhaust communication port (54) as the lid (60) rotates. The packing-side air intake opening (66) forms part of the air intake passage (P1), and the packing-side exhaust opening (67) forms part of the exhaust passage (P2).

[0088] (3-8) Drive mechanism The configuration of the drive mechanism (70) will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0089] (3-8-1) Overall structure The drive mechanism (70) drives the lid (60). The drive mechanism (70) displaces the lid (60) between a closed position where the lid (60) closes the ventilation opening (VO) and an open position (strictly speaking, a fully open position) where the lid (60) opens the ventilation opening (VO). The drive mechanism (70) includes a motor (71) as a drive source and a drive shaft (72) driven by the motor (71). The drive mechanism (70) of this embodiment is configured to perform a rotational motion that rotates the lid (60) in response to the rotation of the drive shaft (72) and a reciprocating motion that moves the lid (60) back and forth in a first direction, which is the axial direction, in response to the rotation of the drive shaft (72). The drive mechanism (70) includes a rod (73) connected to the drive shaft (72) and a cam mechanism (80) connected to the lid (60). The drive mechanism (70) includes a drive case (75) and a transmission mechanism (76) that transmits the rotational force of the output shaft (71a) of the motor (71) to the drive shaft (72). The drive mechanism (70) includes a spring (77) that presses the lid (60) against the base portion (47).

[0090] As shown in Figures 5 and 7, the housing frame (44) has a cylindrical first housing space (44a) and a rectangular pillar-shaped second housing space (44b). The first housing space (44a) accommodates the cam mechanism (80) and the drive shaft (72). The second housing space (44b) accommodates the motor (71). The second housing space (44b) is a sealed space tightly separated from the first housing space (44a). This prevents water droplets and the like from leaking around the motor (71).

[0091] (3-8-2) Motor and transmission mechanism The motor 71 is a stepping motor. An output shaft 71a of the motor 71 extends rearward parallel to the axis X. The motor 71 rotates the output shaft 71a in a reversible manner.

[0092] A transmission mechanism (76) is provided behind the motor (71) and the drive shaft (72). The transmission mechanism (76) of this embodiment includes a pinion (76a), a first gear (76b), and a second gear (76c). The pinion (76a) is fixed to the output shaft (71a). The first gear (76b) meshes with the pinion (76a) and the second gear (76c). The second gear (76c) is connected to the rear end of the drive shaft (72). When the output shaft (71a) of the motor (71) rotates, the rotational force is transmitted to the drive shaft (72) via the pinion (76a), the first gear (76b), and the second gear (76c). As a result, the drive shaft (72) is rotated by the motor (71). The drive shaft (72) is configured to be rotatable in a first rotation direction (R1) and a second rotation direction (R2) shown in FIG.

[0093] (3-8-3) Drive shaft The drive shaft (72) extends from the second gear (76c) toward the lid (60) in the thickness direction of the lid (60). The direction in which the axis (X) of the drive shaft (72) extends corresponds to the thickness direction of the lid (60) and the direction of air flow in the air supply passage (P1) and the air exhaust passage (P2). The drive shaft (72) is made of a metal material such as stainless steel.

[0094] The drive shaft 72 is rotatably fixed to a fixed plate 78 via a fixture 79. The fixed plate 78 rotatably supports the drive shaft 72. The fixture 79 prevents the drive shaft 72 from moving in the axial direction.

[0095] A disk-shaped flange (72a) is formed on the end (front end) of the drive shaft (72) on the lid (60) side. The flange (72a) is coaxial with the axis (X) of the drive shaft (72). The outer diameter of the flange (72a) is larger than the outer diameter of the drive shaft (72). The flange (72a) forms a support plate that supports one end of the spring (77).

[0096] (3-8-4) Rod As shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, three rods (73) are fixed to the drive shaft (72). Each rod (73) is bar-shaped and extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the drive shaft (72). Each rod (73) extends in a direction perpendicular to the axis (X). The three rods (73) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0097] The number of rods (73) may be one or two, but is preferably three or more. By using three or more rods (73), the force acting between the rods (73) and the cam mechanism (80) can be dispersed. This stabilizes the rotational and reciprocating motion of the lid (60). If the number of rods (73) is four or more, the load torque of the motor (71) becomes excessively large. For this reason, it is more preferable that the number of rods (73) is three.

[0098] Each rod (73) includes a rod body (73a) connected to the drive shaft (72) and a ring-shaped bearing (73b) attached to the radially outer end of the rod body (73a). The bearing (73b) is rotatably supported on the rod body (73a) by, for example, bolts (73c). The bearing (73b) is configured to be rotatable about the axis of the rod body (73a). The axis of rotation of the bearing (73b) is aligned with the radial direction of the drive shaft (72). The bearing (73b) contacts the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80). When the bearing (73b) contacts the contact surface (82), the bearing (73b) rotates about its axis. This reduces the frictional force between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80). The bearing (73b) constitutes a low-friction portion that reduces the frictional force (frictional resistance) between the cam mechanism (80) and the rod (73).

[0099] The bearing (73b) is preferably made of a material having higher wear resistance than the rod body (73a). The rod body (73a) is made of a metal material such as stainless steel, and the bearing (73b) is made of a resin material such as polyacetal.

[0100] (3-8-5) Cam mechanism The cam mechanism 80 is connected to the lid 60 and transmits the power of the drive shaft 72 to the lid 60. The cam mechanism 80 has a cylindrical outer shape that is coaxial with the axis X. The front end of the cam mechanism 80 is fastened to the center of the rear surface of the lid 60.

[0101] The cam mechanism (80) has a cylindrical peripheral wall (81) coaxial with the axis (X). A contact surface (82) is formed at the end of the peripheral wall (81) on the rod (73) side, with which the bearing (73b), which is the contact part of the rod (73), comes into contact. The contact surface (82) includes a first transmission part (C1) and a second transmission part (C2). The first transmission part (C1) is a contact surface for transmitting the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to rotate the lid (60). The second transmission part (C2) is a contact surface for transmitting the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to reciprocate the lid (60).

[0102] The structure of the contact surface 82 will be described in more detail. Three protruding plates 83 are formed on the end of the peripheral wall 81 on the rod 73 side. The number of protruding plates 83 is the same as the number of rods 73. The number of protruding plates 83 may be one, two, four or more, or may be different from the number of rods 73. The protruding plates 83 are rectangular plates with the same thickness as the peripheral wall 81.

[0103] A portion of the contact surface (82) between adjacent protruding plates (83) in the circumferential direction is recessed in a V-shape toward the lid (60). A first inclined surface (84) and a second inclined surface (85) are formed in this recessed portion, sandwiching a peak (P) of the recess. The peak (P) is the portion of the contact surface (82) of the peripheral wall (81) that is the shortest in the axial direction from the lid (60). The peak (P) is located at the midpoint in the circumferential direction between adjacent protruding plates (83). The first inclined surface (84) extends from the peak (P) along the first rotation direction (R1). The first inclined surface (84) inclines toward the rod (73) as it progresses in the first rotation direction (R1). The second inclined surface (85) extends from the peak (P) along the second rotation direction. The second inclined surface (85) inclines toward the rod (73) as it progresses in the second rotation direction. The first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) have the same inclination angle with respect to a plane perpendicular to the axis (X) of the drive shaft (72). The first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) have the same circumferential length. The first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) are symmetrical with respect to the apex (P).

[0104] The first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) constitute a first transmission part (C1) with which the rod (73) comes into contact. The first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) are inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the axis (X). As a result, the first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) convert the rotational force acting from the rod (73) into an axial force and transmit it to the lid (60).

[0105] A first end face (83a) is formed on the side of the protruding plate (83) closer to the first inclined surface (84). The first end face (83a) faces the second rotation direction (R2) of the protruding plate (83). A second end face (83b) is formed on the side of the protruding plate (83) closer to the second inclined surface (85). The second end face (83b) faces the first rotation direction (R1) of the protruding plate (83). The first end face (83a) and the second end face (83b) form a second transmission part (C2) with which the rod (73) comes into contact. The first end face (83a) and the second end face (83b) have surfaces aligned with the axis (X), and thus transmit the rotational force acting from the rod (73) directly to the lid (60).

[0106] A first flat surface (86) is formed between the first inclined surface (84) and the first end surface (83a) of the contact surface (82). A second flat surface (87) is formed between the second inclined surface (85) and the second end surface (83b) of the contact surface (82). The first flat surface (86) and the second flat surface (87) lie along a plane perpendicular to the axis (X). The circumferential lengths of the first flat surface (86) and the second flat surface (87) are approximately equal to the diameter of the contact portion of the rod (73), specifically, the diameter of the bearing (73b).

[0107] As shown in FIG. 8, a substantially disk-shaped inner plate (90) is formed inside the cam mechanism (80). A circular recess (91) recessed toward the rod (73) and a circular protrusion (92) protruding toward the lid (60) are formed in the center of the inner plate (90). A shaft hole (91b) through which the drive shaft (72) passes is formed in the center of a support bottom plate (91a) that is the bottom of the circular recess (91). The circular protrusion (92) is cylindrical and surrounds the drive shaft (72). A spring accommodating space (93) for accommodating the spring (77) is formed among the flange (72a), the support bottom plate (91a) of the circular recess (91), the circular protrusion (92), and the drive shaft (72).

[0108] As shown in Figure 9, a plurality of ribs (94) are provided on the surface of the support bottom plate (91a) of the cam mechanism (80) facing the rod (73). The plurality of ribs (94) extend radially from the outer peripheral surface of the annular recess (91) to the inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall (81). The plurality of ribs (94) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The ribs (94) form a reinforcing portion that reinforces the support bottom plate (91a) on which the pressing force of the spring (77) acts.

[0109] (3-8-5) Spring As shown in FIG. 8, the spring (77) of this embodiment is provided in the drive mechanism (70). The spring (77) constitutes a pressing portion that presses the lid (60) toward the base portion (47). The spring (77) is spiral-shaped. The spring (77) rotates around the axis (X) and extends in the axial direction as a whole. The spring (77) is made of a metal wire such as SUS or tungsten.

[0110] The drive shaft 72 is disposed inside the spring 77. In other words, the spring 77 is spirally shaped and rotates around the drive shaft 72.

[0111] One end of the spring (77) contacts the flange (72a) of the drive shaft (72). The one end of the spring (77) may or may not be fixed to the flange (72a). The other end of the spring (77) contacts the support bottom plate (91a). In this manner, the spring (77) is sandwiched and held between the flange (72a) and the support bottom plate (91a). The flange (72a) and the support bottom plate (91a) face each other and form a first surface and a second surface that hold the spring (77). The first surface is provided on the drive shaft (72), and the second surface is provided on the cam mechanism (80) that connects to the lid (60).

[0112] As described above, the drive shaft (72) is prohibited from moving in the axial direction. Therefore, the biasing force of the spring (77) acts to move the cam mechanism (80) rearward. This biasing force presses the lid (60) connected to the cam mechanism (80) toward the base portion (47). When the lid (60) is pressed against the base portion (47), the packing (65) between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) is compressed in the thickness direction. This improves the sealing performance of the packing (65).

[0113] (3-9) Details of the edge forming plate As shown in Figures 6, 12, and 13, a protrusion (55) protruding toward the packing (65) is provided between the packing (65) and the base portion (47). The protrusion (55) is tapered so as to become narrower toward the packing (65). The protrusion (55) compresses the packing (65), thereby improving the sealing performance of the packing (65). The protrusion (55) includes an air intake side protrusion (56) corresponding to the air intake communication port (53), an exhaust side protrusion (55) corresponding to the exhaust communication port (54), and a central protrusion (58) corresponding to the second insertion hole (52d).

[0114] The air intake side protrusion (56) has a closed loop shape surrounding the air intake communication port (53). When the lid (60) is in the fully closed position, the air intake side protrusion (56) comes into line contact with a portion of the packing (65) that corresponds to the outer edge of the air intake communication port (53). This improves the sealing performance between the packing (65) and the outer edge of the air intake communication port (53).

[0115] The exhaust-side protrusion (57) has a closed loop shape surrounding the exhaust communication port (54). When the lid (60) is in the fully closed position, the exhaust-side protrusion (57) comes into line contact with a portion of the packing (65) that corresponds to the outer edge of the exhaust communication port (54). This improves the sealing performance between the packing (65) and the outer edge of the exhaust communication port (54).

[0116] The intake-side protrusion (56) and the exhaust-side protrusion (57) basically have the same structure, but may have different structures. The intake-side protrusion (56) and the exhaust-side protrusion (57) each have an outer circumferential portion (55a), an inner circumferential portion (55b), a first side edge (55c), and a second side edge (55d). The outer circumferential portion (55a) is located near the outer circumferential edge of the edge forming plate (52). When viewed from the axial direction, the outer circumferential portion (55a) has an arc shape that follows the outer circumferential edge of the edge forming plate (52). The inner circumferential portion (55b) is located near the inner circumferential edge of the edge forming plate (52), i.e., near the second insertion hole (52d). The inner circumferential portion (55b) has an arc shape that follows the inner circumferential edge of the edge forming plate (52).

[0117] The first side edge (55c) is continuous with one circumferential end of each of the outer peripheral portion (55a) and the inner peripheral portion (55b). The one end here corresponds to an end in the first rotational direction (R1). The first side edge (55c) extends in a substantially straight line from one end of the outer peripheral portion (55a) to one end of the inner peripheral portion (55b).

[0118] The second side edge (55d) is continuous with the other circumferential ends of the outer peripheral portion (55a) and the inner peripheral portion (55b). The other ends correspond to the ends in the second rotational direction (R2). The second side edge (55d) extends in a generally arc-like shape from the other end of the outer peripheral portion (55a) to the other end of the inner peripheral portion (55b). The second side edge (55d) has an arc-like shape that bulges out in the first rotational direction (R1).

[0119] The central protrusion (58) has a closed loop shape surrounding the second insertion hole (52d). The central protrusion (58) is in line contact with a portion of the packing (65) that corresponds to the outer edge of the second insertion hole (52d). This improves the sealing performance between the packing (65) and the outer edge of the second insertion hole (52d).

[0120] The protruding height of the convex portion 55 increases from the center of the lid 60 toward the outer edge of the lid 60. In other words, the protruding height of the convex portion 55 increases radially outward from the edge forming plate 52. Here, the spring 77 presses the center of the lid 60 toward the base portion 47 when viewed in the axial direction. Therefore, the pressing force acting on the lid 60 decreases from the center of the lid 60 toward the outer edge. As a result, the compressive force of the packing 65 caused by the spring 77 decreases from the center of the lid 60 toward the outer edge. In contrast, by increasing the protruding height of the convex portion 55 radially outward from the edge forming plate 52, the compressive force of the packing 65 can be made uniform throughout the entire radial direction. As a result, the sealing performance of the packing 65 can be improved.

[0121] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, when the protruding height h1 of the outer peripheral portion (55a) is defined as h2, the protruding height of the inner peripheral portion (55b) is defined as h2, and the protruding height of the central convex portion (58) is defined as h3, h1 is greater than h2, and h2 is greater than h3. The protruding height h1 of the outer peripheral portion (55a) is uniform throughout. The protruding height h2 of the inner peripheral portion (55b) is uniform throughout. The protruding height of the central convex portion (58) is uniform throughout.

[0122] The protruding height h4 of the first side edge portion (55c) increases from the center of the lid (60) toward the outer edge of the lid (60). In other words, the protruding height h4 of the first side edge portion (55c) increases radially outward of the edge forming plate (52).

[0123] The protruding height h5 of the second side edge portion (55d) increases from the center of the lid (60) toward the outer edge of the lid (60). In other words, the protruding height h5 of the second side edge portion (55d) increases toward the radially outward direction of the edge forming plate (52).

[0124] (3-10) Limiting mechanism The ventilation device (40) has a limiting mechanism for limiting rotation of the lid (60) relative to the base portion (47). As shown in Fig. 6, the limiting mechanism has a first lid-side protrusion (63) and a second lid-side protrusion (64) provided on the lid (60), and a first pin (95) and a second pin (96) provided on the base portion (47).

[0125] The first lid protrusion (63) and the second lid protrusion (64) protrude radially outward from the outer edge of the lid (60). The first lid protrusion (63) and the second lid protrusion (64) are offset from each other by approximately 90 degrees in the circumferential direction. The first lid protrusion (63) is located on the outer edge of the lid (60) near the lid air intake opening (61). The second lid protrusion (64) is located on the outer edge of the lid (60) near a portion between the lid air intake opening (61) and the lid exhaust opening (62) in the circumferential direction.

[0126] The first pin (95) and the second pin (96) are formed on the base plate (47a) of the base portion (47). The first pin (95) and the second pin (96) protrude forward from the base plate (47a), which is one end in the axial direction. The first pin (95) and the second pin (96) are offset by approximately 180 degrees in the circumferential direction. The first pin (95) and the second pin (96) are disposed on the outer edge of the base-side recess (47b). The first pin (95) is positioned approximately 90 degrees offset in the second rotation direction (R2) from the air intake port (48), and the second pin (96) is positioned approximately 90 degrees offset in the second rotation direction (R2) from the air exhaust port (49).

[0127] As shown in FIG. 15(A), the first lid protrusion (63) and the first pin (95) come into contact with each other when the lid (60) is at a first rotation angle (θ1) that fully closes the ventilation opening (VO). Specifically, the side edge of the first lid protrusion (63) on the second rotation direction (R2) side comes into contact with the first pin (95). As a result, the first lid protrusion (63) and the first pin (95) restrict further rotation of the lid (60) at the first rotation angle (θ1) in the second rotation direction (R2). The first lid protrusion (63) and the first pin (95) constitute a first restriction mechanism that restricts rotation of the lid (60) that fully closes the ventilation opening (VO) in a direction that closes the ventilation opening (VO).

[0128] As shown in FIG. 15(C), the second lid protrusion (64) and the second pin (96) come into contact with each other when the lid (60) is at a second rotation angle (θ2) that fully opens the opening (CO). Specifically, the side edge of the second lid protrusion (64) on the first rotation direction (R1) side comes into contact with the second pin (96). As a result, the second lid protrusion (64) and the second pin (96) restrict further rotation of the lid (60) at the second rotation angle (θ2) in the first rotation direction (R1). The second lid protrusion (64) and the second pin (96) constitute a second restriction mechanism that restricts rotation of the lid (60) that fully opens the ventilation opening (VO) in the direction that opens the ventilation opening (VO).

[0129] With the above configuration, the lid (60) of this embodiment is configured so that the rotation angle can be adjusted within the range from the first rotation angle (θ1=0°) to the second rotation angle (θ2=90°).

[0130] (4) Refrigerant leak sensor and control unit As shown in Fig. 4, the container refrigeration unit (10) includes a refrigerant leakage sensor (110) and a control unit (100). The refrigerant leakage sensor (110) detects leakage of refrigerant from the refrigerant circuit (R). Specifically, the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) outputs a detection signal to the control unit (100) when the concentration of the refrigerant around the sensor (110) reaches or exceeds a predetermined value. As shown in Fig. 2, the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) is disposed in the internal storage space (15). Specifically, for example, the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) is disposed in the internal passage (19) downstream of the internal heat exchanger (29) in the air flow direction.

[0131] The control unit (100) controls the container refrigeration unit (10). The control unit (100) includes a microprocessor, an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The microprocessor includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, a communication interface, an analog input / output, and a contact input / output interface. The memory stores various programs executed by the CPU and data used by the programs.

[0132] The control unit (100) controls mechanical elements of the container refrigeration unit (10). The control unit (100) controls the drive mechanism (70) of the ventilation device (40). Specifically, the control unit (100) controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the rotation angle (current rotation angle (θc)) of the lid (60) converges to a set target value (target rotation angle (θt)). As shown in FIG. 4, this target value may be a value that can be arbitrarily set by a user of the container refrigeration unit (10) via an operation unit (101). The operation unit (101) is configured, for example, with a touch panel, a remote controller, or a DIP switch provided on the container refrigeration unit (10). The operation unit (101) may be a communication terminal connected to the container refrigeration unit (10) via a network. The target value does not necessarily have to be set by a user, and may be a value that is automatically determined by the control unit (100) depending on, for example, an operation mode or an operation condition.

[0133] When the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) detects a refrigerant leakage, the control unit (100) controls the drive mechanism (70) to move the lid (60) to the closed position.

[0134] (5) Basic operation of ventilation equipment In the ventilation device (40), the lid (60) performs reciprocating motion and rotational motion. These motions will be described first, mainly with reference to Figures 14 and 15. In the following description, "one axial end" means the end of the drive shaft (72) that is closer to the lid (60) in the axial direction, and "the other axial end" means the end of the drive shaft (72) that is farther from the lid (60) in the axial direction.

[0135] (5-1) Reciprocating motion During the reciprocating motion, the axial position of the cam mechanism (80) relative to the rod (73) changes due to contact between the rod (73) and the second transmission part (C2). Accordingly, the relative axial positions of the lid (60) connected to the cam mechanism (80) and the base part (47) change. The reciprocating motion includes a first reciprocating motion corresponding to the first inclined surface (84) and a second reciprocating motion corresponding to the second inclined surface (85).

[0136] (5-1-1) First reciprocating motion As shown in Figure 14(A), when the rod 73 of the drive mechanism 70 is positioned at the top P of the cam mechanism 80, the cam mechanism 80 is positioned at the other end in the axial direction. In this state, the axial distance between the lid 60 and the base 47 is shortest. As a result, the packing 65 is sandwiched between the lid 60 and the base 47, and the packing 65 is pressed against the base 47 by the lid 60. The position shown in Figure 14(A) is the first position in which the lid 60 compresses the packing 65.

[0137] 14(A), when the motor (71) rotates the drive shaft (72) and further the rod (73) in the first rotation direction (R1), the rod (73) comes into contact with the first inclined surface (84). As the rod (73) moves in the first rotation direction (R1) and away from the top (P), the cam mechanism (80) moves toward one end in the axial direction.

[0138] As the rod (73) moves further in the first rotation direction (R1), the rod (73) reaches the first flat surface (86). Further rotation of the rod (73) in the first rotation direction (R1) brings the rod (73) into contact with the first end surface (83a) of the protruding plate (83), as shown in FIG. 14(B). In this state, the cam mechanism (80) is positioned at the extreme one end in the axial direction. As a result, the axial distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) is at its longest, and the packing (65) is spaced apart from the base portion (47). The position shown in FIG. 14(B) corresponds to the second position, in which the lid (60) is farther from the base portion (47) than the first position. When the lid (60) is in the second position, the compression of the packing (65) by the lid (60) is released.

[0139] When the motor (71) rotates the drive shaft (72) and further the rod (73) in the second rotation direction (R2) from the state shown in Figure 14(B), the rod (73) comes into contact with the first inclined surface (84). As the rod (73) moves in the second rotation direction (R2) and approaches the top (P), the cam mechanism (80) moves toward the other end in the axial direction. As shown in Figure 14(A), when the rod (73) reaches the top (P), the packing (65) is compressed by the lid.

[0140] In the first reciprocating motion, the first rotation angle range (θd1) within which the rod (73) and the first inclined surface (84) come into contact is set to 45°. In other words, to move the rod (73) from the position shown in Figure 14(A) to the position shown in Figure 14(B), the drive shaft (72) needs to be rotated in the first rotation direction (R1) through the first rotation angle range (θd1).

[0141] (5-1-2) Second reciprocating motion 14(A), when the motor (71) rotates the drive shaft (72) and further the rod (73) in the second rotation direction (R2), the rod (73) comes into contact with the second inclined surface (85). As the rod (73) moves in the second rotation direction (R2) and away from the top (P), the cam mechanism (80) moves toward one end in the axial direction.

[0142] As the rod 73 moves further in the second rotation direction R2, it reaches the second flat surface 87. Further rotation of the rod 73 in the second rotation direction R2 brings the rod 73 into contact with the second end surface 83b of the protruding plate 83, as shown in FIG. 14(C). In this state, the cam mechanism 80 is positioned at its axially most distal end. As a result, the axial distance between the lid 60 and the base 47 is maximized, and the packing 65 moves away from the base 47. The position shown in FIG. 14(C) corresponds to the second position, in which the lid 60 is farther from the base 47 than the first position. When the lid 60 is in the second position, the compression of the packing 65 by the lid 60 is released.

[0143] When the motor (71) rotates the drive shaft (72) and further the rod (73) in the first rotation direction (R1) from the state shown in Figure 14(C), the rod (73) comes into contact with the second inclined surface (85). As the rod (73) moves in the first rotation direction (R1) and approaches the top (P), the cam mechanism (80) moves toward the other end in the axial direction. As shown in Figure 14(A), when the rod (73) reaches the top (P), the packing (65) is compressed by the lid.

[0144] In the second reciprocating motion, the second rotation angle range (θd2) within which the rod (73) and the second inclined surface (85) come into contact is set to 45°. In other words, to move the rod (73) from the position shown in Figure 14(A) to the position shown in Figure 14(C), the drive shaft (72) needs to be rotated in the second rotation direction (R2) through the second rotation angle range (θd2).

[0145] (5-2) Rotational motion In the rotational movement, the rotational force of the rod (73) acts on the protruding plate (83), thereby changing the rotation angle of the cam mechanism (80) and, consequently, the rotation angle of the lid (60). The rotational movement includes a first rotational movement in which the lid (60) increases the rotation of the ventilation opening (VO), and a second rotational movement in which the lid (60) reduces the opening of the ventilation opening (VO).

[0146] (5-2-1) First rotation When the rod (73) is in the position shown in FIG. 14(B), the drive shaft (72) rotates in the first rotation direction (R1), causing the rotational force of the rod (73) to act on the cam mechanism (80), causing the lid (60) to perform a first rotational motion. Specifically, the rod (73) moves further in the first rotation direction (R1) while contacting the first end surface (83a) of the protruding plate (83), causing the cam mechanism (80) and the lid (60) to rotate in the first rotation direction (R1). The lid (60) then rotates in the order shown in FIG. 15(A), FIG. 15(B), and FIG. 15(C). Accordingly, the area of overlap between the lid-side opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO) in the axial direction increases. As a result, the effective opening area of the ventilation opening (VO) increases, and the ventilation volume of the ventilation device (40) increases.

[0147] The position of the lid (60) in Figure 15(A) is the closed position in which the ventilation opening (VO) is fully closed. In this state, the lid opening (CO) is entirely blocked by the base portion (47). Specifically, the lid air intake opening (61) entirely overlaps with the base portion (47) in the axial direction, and the lid exhaust opening (62) entirely overlaps with the base portion (47) in the axial direction.

[0148] The position of the lid (60) in Figure 15(C) is the open position (strictly speaking, the fully open position) in which the lid (60) fully opens the ventilation opening (VO). In this state, the entire lid-side opening (CO) and the entire ventilation opening (VO) overlap in the axial direction. Specifically, the entire lid-side air intake opening (61) and the entire air intake opening (48) overlap in the axial direction, and the entire lid-side exhaust opening (62) and the entire exhaust opening (49) overlap in the axial direction.

[0149] Furthermore, in this state, the lid-side opening (CO) is surrounded by the convex portion (55) of the edge forming plate (52) shown in Fig. 12. As a result, leakage of air and water between the inside and outside of the lid-side opening (CO) can be suppressed.

[0150] Specifically, when viewed in the axial direction, the lid-side air intake opening (61) and the packing-side air intake opening (66) are surrounded by the air intake-side protrusion (56). As a result, the air intake-side protrusion (56) compresses the outer edge of the packing-side air intake opening (66) of the packing (65), thereby suppressing air and water leakage from this portion.

[0151] When viewed in the axial direction, the lid-side exhaust opening (62) and the packing-side exhaust opening (67) are surrounded by the exhaust-side convex portion (55). As a result, the exhaust-side convex portion (55) compresses the outer edge of the packing-side exhaust opening (67) of the packing (65), thereby suppressing leakage of air and water from this portion.

[0152] The position of the cover (60) in Figure 15(B) is an intermediate position between the closed position and the open position. When the cover (60) is in the intermediate position, the ventilation opening (VO) is open with a predetermined opening area (opening degree).

[0153] (5-2-2) Second rotation When the rod (73) is in the position shown in FIG. 14(C), the drive shaft (72) rotates in the second rotation direction (R1), causing the rotational force of the rod (73) to act on the cam mechanism (80), causing the lid (60) to perform the second rotational motion. Specifically, the rod (73) moves further in the second rotation direction (R2) while contacting the second end surface (83b) of the protruding plate (83), causing the cam mechanism (80) and the lid (60) to rotate in the second rotation direction (R2). The lid (60) then rotates in the order shown in FIG. 15(C), FIG. 15(B), and FIG. 15(A). Accordingly, the area of overlap between the lid-side opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO) in the axial direction decreases. As a result, the effective opening area of the ventilation opening (VO) decreases, and the ventilation volume of the ventilation device (40) decreases.

[0154] (5-3) Control operation The control operation of the ventilation device (40) will be described in detail. The control unit (100) controls the rotation angle of the lid (60) within a range from a first rotation angle (θ1 = 0°) shown in Fig. 15(A) to a second rotation angle (θ2 = 90°) shown in Fig. 15(C). The control unit (100) controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the current rotation angle (θc) of the lid (60) becomes a target value (target rotation angle (θt)). At the start of the control operation, the rod (73) is located at the top (P) and the lid (60) is in the first position (position shown in Fig. 14(A)) where the lid (60) compresses the packing (65).

[0155] (5-3-1) Basic Control 16, in the control operation of the ventilation device (40), in step S11, the control unit (100) determines whether or not a current rotation angle (θc) has already been set. If the current rotation angle (θc) has not been set in step S11, the process proceeds to initialization control, the details of which will be described later. If the current rotation angle (θc) has been set in step S11, the process proceeds to step S12.

[0156] In step S12, the control unit (100) determines whether the current rotation angle (θc) is equal to the target rotation angle (θt). The target rotation angle (θt) is a predetermined value in the range of 0° to 90°. If the current rotation angle (θc) is equal to the target rotation angle (θt), the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the target rotation angle (θt) is set as the current rotation angle (θc). The set current rotation angle (θc) is stored in a storage unit such as a memory in the control unit (100). If the current rotation angle (θc) is not equal to the target rotation angle (θt) in step S12, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0157] If the target rotation angle (θt) is greater than the current rotation angle (θc) in step S13, the drive mechanism (70) successively performs a first operation in step S14 and a second operation in step S15.

[0158] In the first operation of step S14, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) from the first position shown in Fig. 14(A) to the second position shown in Fig. 14(B). Specifically, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the first rotation direction (R1) through a first rotation angle range (θd1). This releases or reduces the compressive force of the lid (60) on the packing (65).

[0159] In the second operation of step S15, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60) to the target rotation angle (θt) while maintaining the lid (60) at the second position. Specifically, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the first rotation direction (R1) by the difference (θt-θc) between the target rotation angle (θt) and the current rotation angle (θc).

[0160] At this time, the lid (60) is in the second position shown in FIG. 14(B), so the frictional force (frictional resistance) acting on the packing (65) can be reduced compared to when the lid (60) is in the first position. As a result, the power required to rotate the lid (60) can be reduced. In addition, wear at the contact portion between the packing (65) and the base portion (47) can be reduced.

[0161] Next, in step S16, the drive mechanism (70) performs a third operation of moving the lid (60) to the first position while maintaining the lid (60) at the target rotation angle (θt). Specifically, in step S16, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the second rotation direction (R2) through the first rotation angle range (θd1). This brings the lid (60) closest to the base portion (47), compressing the packing (65).

[0162] In this way, after the lid (60) reaches the target rotation angle (θt), the drive mechanism (70) returns the lid (60) to the first position. This prevents the lid (60) from wobbling due to vibrations, etc. In addition, the sealing performance of the packing (65) can be improved, thereby preventing air and water from leaking from the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47).

[0163] After step S16, the process proceeds to step S17, where the target rotation angle (θt) is set as the current rotation angle (θc).

[0164] If the target rotation angle (θt) is smaller than the current rotation angle (θc) in step S13, the drive mechanism (70) successively performs the first operation in step S18 and the second operation in step S19.

[0165] In the first operation of step S18, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) from the first position shown in Fig. 14(A) to the second position shown in Fig. 14(C). Specifically, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the second rotation direction (R2) through the second rotation angle range (θd2). This releases or reduces the compressive force of the lid (60) on the packing (65).

[0166] In the second operation of step S19, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60) to the target rotation angle (θt) while maintaining the lid (60) at the second position. Specifically, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the second rotation direction (R2) by the difference (θc-θt) between the current rotation angle (θc) and the target rotation angle (θt).

[0167] At this time, since the lid (60) is in the second position shown in FIG. 14(C), the frictional force (frictional resistance) acting on the packing (65) can be reduced compared to when the lid (60) is in the first position. As a result, the power required to rotate the lid (60) can be reduced. In addition, wear at the contact portion between the packing (65) and the base portion (47) can be reduced.

[0168] Next, in step S20, the drive mechanism (70) performs a third operation of moving the lid (60) to the first position while maintaining the lid (60) at the target rotation angle (θt). Specifically, in step S20, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the first rotation direction (R1) through the second rotation angle range (θd2). This brings the lid (60) closest to the base portion (47), compressing the packing (65).

[0169] In this way, after the lid (60) reaches the target rotation angle (θt), the drive mechanism (70) returns the lid (60) to the first position. This prevents the lid (60) from wobbling due to vibrations, etc. In addition, the sealing performance of the packing (65) can be improved, thereby preventing air and water from leaking from the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47).

[0170] After step S20, the process proceeds to step S17, where the target rotation angle (θt) is set as the current rotation angle (θc).

[0171] (5-3-2) Initialization control During the first operation of the container refrigeration unit (10), the current rotation angle (θc) may not yet be set in step S17. Therefore, when the current rotation angle (θc) is not set in step S11, the control unit (100) performs the initialization control shown in FIG. 17. The control unit (100) may perform the initialization control in response to a manual input by the user. The control unit (100) may perform the initialization control in response to a command to turn on or off the power supply of the container refrigeration unit (10). The initialization control may be performed, for example, by a manual operation by the user.

[0172] In the initialization control, in step S21, the drive mechanism (70) performs a fourth operation. In the fourth operation, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the second rotation direction (R2) by a third rotation angle (θ3). The third rotation angle (θ3) is the sum of the first rotation angle range (θd1), the second rotation angle range (θd2), and the second rotation angle (θ2=90°). In this embodiment, the third rotation angle (θ3) is set to 180°, which is the sum of the first rotation angle range (θd1=45°) + the second rotation angle range (θd2=45°) + the second rotation angle (θ2=90°). When the fourth operation is performed, regardless of the current rotation angle (θc) of the lid (60), the rod (73) is positioned as shown in FIG. 14(C) and the lid (60) is positioned at the closed position (first rotation angle) shown in FIG. 15(A).

[0173] Next, in step S22, the drive mechanism 70 performs a fifth operation. In the fifth operation, the drive mechanism 70 rotates the drive shaft 72 in the first rotation direction R1 through the second rotation angle range θd2. As a result, the rod 73, which was in the position shown in FIG. 14(C), is positioned at the top P as shown in FIG. 14(A).

[0174] Next, in step S23, the control unit (100) sets the current rotation angle (θc) to the first rotation angle (θ1=0°). Specifically, 0° is stored in the storage unit of the control unit (100) as the current rotation angle (θc).

[0175] As a result, in the subsequent control operation of the ventilation device (40), the current rotation angle (θc) of the cover (60) can be adjusted to the target rotation angle (θt) while the cover (60) is at the first rotation angle (θ1) and in the first position.

[0176] (5-4) Control example Next, an example of control of the ventilation device (40) will be described. The control unit (100) performs full-open control, full-close control, and opening degree adjustment control.

[0177] (5-4-1) Full-open control The full-open control is a control for fully opening the ventilation opening (VO). In the full-open control, the target rotation angle (θt) is set to the second rotation angle (θ2=90°). The drive mechanism (70) performs a first operation to move the cover (60) to the second position shown in FIG. 14(B), and then performs a second operation to move the cover (60) to the open position (fully open position) shown in FIG. 15(C).

[0178] Next, the drive mechanism (70) performs a third operation to return the lid (60) to the first position shown in Fig. 14(A). As a result, the lid (60) in the fully open position is tightly attached to the base portion (47) via the packing (65), preventing the lid (60) from wobbling and stably supporting the lid (60). In addition, the sealing performance of the packing (65) is improved, preventing air and water from leaking from the gap between the packing (65) and the base portion (47).

[0179] (5-4-2) Fully closed control The full-close control is a control for fully closing the ventilation opening (VO). In the full-close control, the target rotation angle (θt) is set to a first rotation angle (θ2=0°). The drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) to the second position shown in FIG. 14(C) through a first operation, and then moves the lid (60) to the closed position shown in FIG. 15(A) through a second operation.

[0180] Next, the drive mechanism (70) performs a third operation to return the lid (60) to the first position shown in FIG. 14(A). This allows the lid (60) in the closed position to tightly contact the base (47) via the packing (65), thereby preventing the lid (60) from wobbling and stably supporting the lid (60). Furthermore, the improved sealing performance of the packing (65) reduces air and water leakage through the gap between the packing (65) and the base (47). In particular, in the fully closed control, ventilation of the interior space (3) of the container (1) is not performed, so airtightness of the container (1) is important. If air from the exterior space (5) enters the container (1), the quality of the stored items may be impaired or the cooling load of the container refrigeration unit (10) may increase. Therefore, improving the sealing performance of the packing (65) in this manner ensures the airtightness of the container (1) and avoids such problems.

[0181] (5-4-3) Opening adjustment control The opening adjustment control is a control for adjusting the opening area of the ventilation opening (VO) to a predetermined opening. In the opening adjustment control, the target rotation angle (θt) of the lid (60) is set to a predetermined rotation angle, for example, in the range of 5° to 85°. The drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) to the second position shown in FIG. 14(B) or 14(C) through a first operation, and then moves the lid (60) to the predetermined intermediate position shown in FIG. 15(B).

[0182] Next, the drive mechanism (70) performs a third operation to return the lid (60) to the first position shown in FIG. 14(A). This allows the lid (60) in the intermediate position to be in close contact with the base (47) via the packing (65), thereby preventing the lid (60) from wobbling and stably supporting the lid (60). Furthermore, the improved sealing performance of the packing (65) can prevent air and water from leaking from the gap between the packing (65) and the base (47). The opening adjustment control can also prevent the target ventilation volume from being lost due to air leakage.

[0183] (6) Effects of the embodiment In a ventilation device with a structure in which the lid is opened and closed manually, the lid can be tightly fastened toward the base to ensure a seal between the lid and the base. In contrast, in this embodiment, the ventilation opening (VO) is opened and closed automatically by the drive mechanism (70), so a seal between the lid and the base cannot be manually ensured.

[0184] In contrast, the ventilation device (40) of this embodiment includes a spring (77) as a pressing part that presses the lid (60) toward the base part (47). The spring (77) presses the lid (60) in the closed position toward the base part (47), thereby sufficiently compressing the packing (65) between the lid (60) and the base part (47). As a result, the ventilation opening (VO) can be automatically opened and closed while preventing air and water from leaking between the lid (60) and the base part (47).

[0185] By suppressing air leakage, the airtightness of the container (1) can be improved. In particular, in the fully closed control, the airtightness of the container (1) can be sufficiently ensured, and the reliability of the container refrigeration system (10) can be improved. In the fully open control or the opening adjustment control, it is possible to prevent the target ventilation volume from being not obtained. By suppressing water leakage, it is possible to prevent devices such as the motor (71) of the ventilation device (40) from getting wet.

[0186] The spring (77) of this embodiment is provided in the drive mechanism (70) as shown in Fig. 8. Therefore, the spring (77) can be provided inside the ventilation device (40) while preventing the spring (77) from interfering with the lid (60) or the base (47). This allows the ventilation device (40) to be made smaller.

[0187] Furthermore, since the spring (77) of this embodiment is provided along the drive shaft (72), it is possible to prevent the spring (77) from interfering with other components.

[0188] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the spring 77 is spiral, and the drive shaft 72 is inserted into the spring 77. This prevents the spring 77 from interfering with other components. The spring 77 and the drive shaft 72 are coaxially arranged, so that the spring 77 is prevented from interfering with other components even when the drive shaft 72 rotates.

[0189] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, a protrusion (55) is provided between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). The protrusion (55) protrudes toward the packing (65), so that the packing (65) and the tip of the protrusion (55) can be in substantial line contact. This improves the sealing performance at the portion of the packing (65) that comes into contact with the protrusion (55).

[0190] The protrusions (55) of the present embodiment come into contact with the outer edges of the packing-side air supply opening (66) and the packing-side exhaust opening (67), which are openings through which air flows in the packing (65), thereby preventing air and water from leaking from the outer edges of these openings in the packing (65).

[0191] In this embodiment, the spring (77) presses the center of the lid (60) toward the base portion (47), thereby preventing the pressing force of the spring (77) on the packing (65) from becoming uneven in the circumferential direction. However, this configuration reduces the pressing force of the spring (77) on the packing (65) from the center toward the outer edge. In contrast, in this embodiment, the protruding height of the convex portion (55) increases from the center of the lid (60) toward the outer edge of the lid (60). This makes it possible to uniformize the compressive force of the packing (65) in the radial direction, thereby improving the sealing performance of the packing (65).

[0192] In this embodiment, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) in the first direction so as to adjust the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). By adjusting this distance, the compressive force of the packing (65) can be adjusted.

[0193] In this embodiment, the lid (60) has a lid-side opening (CO). The drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60) so as to adjust the overlapping area between the lid-side opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO). This allows for adjustment of the opening degree of the ventilation opening (VO), and therefore the ventilation volume. When the lid (60) is rotated, the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) is widened, thereby reducing the frictional force acting on the packing (65). As a result, the power of the motor (71) can be reduced, and power consumption can be reduced. The load torque of the motor (71) can be reduced, allowing the motor (71) to be made smaller. The wear of the packing (65) can be reduced, thereby reducing the frequency of replacement of the packing (65).

[0194] The drive mechanism (70) of this embodiment includes a motor (71) as a drive source and a drive shaft (72) that is rotationally driven by the motor (71). The drive mechanism (70) is configured to perform a rotational motion that rotates the lid (60) in association with the rotation of the drive shaft (72), and a reciprocating motion that moves the lid (60) back and forth in the axial direction, which is a first direction, in association with the rotational motion of the drive shaft (72). This allows the lid (60) to rotate and reciprocate with one motor (71) and one drive shaft (72).

[0195] The drive mechanism (70) of this embodiment includes a rod (73) connected to the drive shaft (72) and a cam mechanism (80) connected to the lid (60) and having a contact surface (82) with which the rod (73) comes into contact. The contact surface (82) includes a first transmission part (C1) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to rotate the lid (60), and a second transmission part (C2) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to reciprocate the lid (60). This allows the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to be used to rotate and reciprocate the lid (60).

[0196] In this embodiment, the first transmission part (C1) has a first end surface (83a) formed along the axial direction and contacting the rod (73) moving in the first rotation direction (R1), and a second end surface (83b) formed along the axial direction and contacting the rod (73) moving in the second rotation direction (R2). The second transmission part (C2) has a first inclined surface (84) approaching the other end side in the axial direction (the side opposite the lid (60)) as it approaches the first end surface (83a), and a second inclined surface (85) approaching the other end side in the axial direction as it approaches the second end surface (83b). This allows the distance between the lid (60) and the base part (47) to be adjusted and the lid (60) to be rotated in the first rotation direction (R1) while the drive shaft (72) is rotated in the first rotation direction (R1). By rotating the drive shaft (72) in the second rotation direction (R2), the distance between the lid (60) and the base part (47) can be adjusted, and the lid (60) can be rotated in the second rotation direction (R2).

[0197] The ventilation device (40) of this embodiment includes a bearing (73b) as a low-friction part that reduces the friction between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80). This reduces the friction between the rod (73) and the bearing (73b), thereby reducing wear on the rod (73) and the cam mechanism (80). As a result, it is possible to prevent the reciprocating motion or rotational motion of the lid (60) from becoming unstable due to wear on these parts.

[0198] In this embodiment, the contact surface 82 of the cam mechanism 80 has a first flat surface 86 formed between the first end surface 83 a and the first inclined surface 84, the first flat surface 86 extending along a plane perpendicular to the axial direction. Therefore, the rod 73 moving from the first inclined surface 84 to the first end surface 83 a passes through the first flat surface 86 before coming into contact with the first end surface 83 a. This prevents the rod 73 from simultaneously coming into contact with both the first inclined surface 84 and the first flat surface 86, allowing for a smooth transition from the first reciprocating motion to the first rotational motion.

[0199] Similarly, the contact surface 82 of the cam mechanism 80 of this embodiment has a second flat surface 87 formed along a plane perpendicular to the axial direction between the second end surface 83b and the second inclined surface 85. Therefore, the rod 73 moving from the second inclined surface 85 to the second end surface 83b passes through the second flat surface 87 before coming into contact with the second end surface 83b. As a result, the rod 73 is prevented from simultaneously coming into contact with both the second inclined surface 85 and the second flat surface 87, and a smooth transition from the second reciprocating motion to the second rotational motion can be achieved.

[0200] In this embodiment, three or more rods 73 are connected to the drive shaft 72. This distributes stress between the rods 73 and the contact surface 82, stably driving the cam mechanism 80, and also reduces wear between the rods 73 and the contact surface 82.

[0201] The drive mechanism (70) of this embodiment is configured to perform a first operation of moving the lid (60) from a first position, where the packing (65) is compressed, to a second position that is farther from the base portion (47) than the first position, and a second operation of rotating the lid (60) to a predetermined rotation angle while maintaining the lid (60) at the second position after the first operation. These operations allow the lid (60) to rotate while reducing the frictional force of the packing (65), thereby reducing the power of the motor (71) and reducing power consumption. The load torque of the motor (71) can be reduced, allowing the motor (71) to be made smaller. Wear of the packing (65) can be suppressed, thereby reducing the frequency of replacement of the packing (65).

[0202] The drive mechanism (70) of this embodiment is configured to perform a third operation, after the second operation, to move the lid (60) to the first position while maintaining the lid (60) at a predetermined rotation angle. Thus, after the lid (60) is adjusted to the predetermined angle, the third operation moves the lid (60) closer to the base portion (47). This prevents the lid (60) from wobbling due to vibrations or the like. Additionally, the third operation compresses the packing (65), thereby preventing air and water from leaking.

[0203] In this embodiment, the predetermined rotation angle includes a first rotation angle (θ1) at which the vent hole (VO) is entirely closed by the lid (60). In other words, the drive mechanism (70) places the lid (60) in the closed position and then places the lid (60) in the first position. When the lid (60) is in the closed position, it is necessary to ensure airtightness of the container (1). In contrast, when the lid (60) is in the first position, the packing (65) is compressed, and therefore, the airtightness of the container (1) can be sufficiently ensured.

[0204] This embodiment includes a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the rotation angle of the lid (60) reaches a set target value, thereby allowing the opening area of the ventilation opening (VO) and the ventilation volume to be adjusted as desired.

[0205] When the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) detects a refrigerant leakage, the control unit (100) of this embodiment controls the drive mechanism (70) to close the lid (60). This prevents the refrigerant from leaking from the inside to the outside of the container (1) in the event of a refrigerant leakage in the refrigerant circuit (R).

[0206] (7) Variations The above embodiment may be configured as the following modified examples. Below, the differences from the above embodiment will be basically described.

[0207] (7-1) Variation 1 In the ventilation device (40) of the first modified example shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, the lid (60) does not rotate but only reciprocates. The lid (60) does not have a lid-side opening (CO). The packing (65) does not have a packing-side air intake opening (66) or a packing-side exhaust opening (67). When the lid (60) moves away from the base (47), a gap is formed between the outer edge of the lid (60) and the base (47). In the first modified example, this gap forms a ventilation opening (VO).

[0208] The drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) as in the above embodiment. The rod (73) contacts the first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85), which are the second transmission part (C2), causing the cam mechanism (80) to reciprocate in the axial direction. As shown in FIG. 20(A), when the lid (60) is in the first position, the packing (65) is sandwiched between the lid (60) and the base part (47) and compressed. In this state, the ventilation opening (VO) between the lid (60) and the base part (47) is closed. In the first modification, the ventilation opening (VO) is fully closed when the lid (60) is in the first position (closed position). In this state, the packing (65) seals the gap between the lid (60) and the base part (47), thereby ensuring sufficient airtightness of the container (1).

[0209] As shown in Fig. 20(B), when the lid (60) is in the second position, the lid (60) is separated from the base (47), and the ventilation opening (VO) is formed between the lid (60) and the base (47). In Modification 1, the ventilation opening (VO) is in an open state when the lid (60) is in the second position (open position). In this state, the lid (60) releases the compression of the packing (65).

[0210] In the first modification, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) to adjust the distance between the lid (60) and the base (47). When the distance between the lid (60) and the base (47) changes, the opening area of the ventilation opening (VO) also changes. Therefore, the ventilation volume can be adjusted by adjusting the axial position of the lid (60).

[0211] 18 and 19, the ventilation device (40) is provided with a first auxiliary spring (121) and a second auxiliary spring (122) as pressing portions in addition to the spring (77) similar to that of the embodiment. The first auxiliary spring (121) and the second auxiliary spring (122) are located near the outer periphery of the lid (60). The first auxiliary spring (121) and the second auxiliary spring (122) are located opposite each other across the axis (X). When viewed in the axial direction, the first auxiliary spring (121) and the second auxiliary spring (122) are located between the air inlet (48) and the air outlet (49).

[0212] The ventilation device (40) includes a first pillar member (123), a second pillar member (124), a first connecting member (125), and a second connecting member (126).

[0213] The first pillar member (123) and the second pillar member (124) are fixed to a portion of the base portion (47) near the outer periphery. The first pillar member (123) and the second pillar member (124) extend along the axis (X). A first flange portion (123a) is formed at one axial end (front end) of the first pillar member (123), and a second flange portion (124a) is formed at one axial end (front end) of the second pillar member (124).

[0214] The first connecting member (125) and the second connecting member (126) are formed in a cylindrical shape with an axis in the front-rear direction. The first connecting member (125) and the second connecting member (126) are fixed to a portion of the rear surface (rear face) of the lid (60) near the outer periphery. A first support plate (125a) is formed behind the first connecting member (125), and a second support plate (126a) is formed behind the second connecting member (126).

[0215] The first auxiliary spring (121) is sandwiched between the first flange (123a) and the first support plate (125a). The first auxiliary spring (121) is formed in a spiral shape. The first pillar member (123) is inserted into the first auxiliary spring (121). The second auxiliary spring (122) is sandwiched between the second flange (124a) and the second support plate (126a). The second auxiliary spring (122) is formed in a spiral shape. The second pillar member (124) is inserted into the second auxiliary spring (122). The biasing force of the first auxiliary spring (121) acts to move the first support plate (125a) rearward. The biasing force of the second auxiliary spring (122) acts to move the second support plate (126a) rearward. This biasing force presses the lid (60) connected to the first connecting member (125) and the second connecting member (126) toward the base portion (47). When the lid (60) is pressed against the base portion (47), the packing (65) between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) is compressed in the thickness direction. This improves the sealing performance of the packing (65).

[0216] (8) Other embodiments The ventilation device (40) may be applied to a container (1) that does not have a refrigeration function.

[0217] The container (1) does not have to be for marine transport, but may be for land transport carried by a vehicle such as a trailer or by rail.

[0218] The container refrigeration system (10) may have an air composition adjusting device that adjusts the composition of oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc., of the air in the interior space (3). The air composition adjusting device adjusts the air in the interior space (3) using, for example, a PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) or a gas separation membrane.

[0219] The ventilation device (40) may have only an air supply function to transport air from the external space (5) to the internal space (3), and may exhaust air naturally through an exhaust port.The ventilation device (40) may have only an air exhaust function to transport air from the internal space (3) to the external space (5), and may supply air naturally through an air supply port.

[0220] In the ventilation device (40) of the above-described embodiment, the opening degree of the ventilation opening (VO) is adjusted by rotating the lid (60). However, the ventilation device (40) may adjust the opening degree of the ventilation opening (VO) by adjusting the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47), as in the first modification.

[0221] The base portion (47) may be formed integrally with the casing body (12) of the container refrigeration unit (10).

[0222] The sealing member may be a member other than a packing, as long as it is made of an elastic material.

[0223] The edge forming member (50) may be integrally formed with the base portion (47).

[0224] An edge forming member (50) may be provided between the lid (60) and the packing (65).

[0225] In the first modification, the packing (65) may be fixed to the base portion (47). In this case, an opening serving as a ventilation port is formed in the packing (65).

[0226] The drive source of the drive mechanism (70) is not limited to the motor (71) and may be any other configuration that can rotate or reciprocate the lid (60).

[0227] The drive mechanism (70) may have separate drive sources for rotating the lid (60) and for reciprocating the lid (60).

[0228] The first direction does not have to be the axial direction, but may be any other direction as long as it allows adjustment of the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47).

[0229] The spring 77 may be a leaf spring or an elastic material. The drive shaft 72 does not have to be inserted through the spring 77. The spring 77 may extend in the axial direction so as to be adjacent to the drive shaft 72.

[0230] The pressing portion does not have to be a spring, and may be configured to press the lid (60) against the base portion (47) by using, for example, hydraulic pressure or the pressure of the refrigerant.

[0231] The low-friction portion may be a liquid lubricant such as grease applied between the rod 73 and the contact surface 82. The low-friction portion may be a low-friction material formed on at least the surface of the rod 73 or the contact surface 82. The low-friction material may be made of a resin material such as POM (polyacetal) or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene).

[0232] The lid (60) in the second position may be located farther from the base portion (47) than the lid (60) in the first position, and the packing (65) may be slightly compressed.

[0233] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate as long as the functionality of the subject matter of the present disclosure is not impaired.

[0234] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the terms to which these terms are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the terms. [Industrial Applicability]

[0235] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for ventilation devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0236] 2. Container body 40 Ventilation Equipment 47 Base 55 Convex part 60 Lid 65 Packing (sealing material) 70 Drive mechanism 71 Motor (drive source) 72 Drive shaft 73 Rod 73b Bearing (low friction part) 77 Spring 77,121,122 Pressing part 80 Cam mechanism 82 Contact surface 100 control section 110 Refrigerant leak sensor C1 First transmission section C2 Second transmission section CO Lid side opening (opening) VO vent

Claims

1. a base portion (47) having a ventilation opening (VO) for communicating the inside and outside of the container body (2); a cover (60) for opening and closing the ventilation opening (VO); a drive mechanism (70) for displacing the lid (60) between an open position and a closed position; a seal member (65) formed between the base portion (47) and the lid (60) at a position surrounding the ventilation opening (VO); a pressing portion (77, 121, 122) that presses the lid (60) against the base portion (47); A ventilation system equipped with:

2. The pressing portion (77, 121, 122) is provided in the drive mechanism (70).

10. The ventilation device of claim 1.

3. The drive mechanism (70) A driving source (71) and a drive shaft (72) driven by the drive source (71); The pressing portion (77, 121, 122) has a spring (77) provided along the drive shaft (72).

3. The ventilation device of claim 2.

4. A protrusion (55) protruding toward a sealing member (65) is provided between the lid (60) and the base (47). A ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the pressing portion (77, 121, 122) is configured to press the central portion of the lid (60) against the base portion (47); The protruding height of the convex portion (55) increases from the central portion of the lid (60) toward the outer edge of the lid (60).

5. The ventilation device of claim 4.

6. The drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) in a first direction so as to adjust the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). A ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The lid (60) has an opening (CO), The drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60) so as to adjust the overlapping area between the opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO).

7. The ventilation device of claim 6.

8. The drive mechanism (70) A driving source (71) and a drive shaft (72) that is rotationally driven by the drive source (71); The drive shaft (72) is configured to rotate the lid (60) in accordance with a rotation of the drive shaft (72), and to reciprocate the lid (60) in the first direction in accordance with the rotation of the drive shaft (72).

8. The ventilation device of claim 7.

9. The drive mechanism (70) a rod (73) connected to the drive shaft (72) and one of the lids (60); a cam mechanism (80) connected to the other of the drive shaft (72) and the lid (60), and having a contact surface (82) with which the rod (73) comes into contact; The contact surface (82) includes a first transmission part (C1) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to rotate the lid (60), and a second transmission part (C2) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to reciprocate the lid (60).

9. The ventilation device of claim 8.

10. a low-friction portion (73b) that reduces the frictional force between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80); 10. The ventilation device of claim 9.

11. Three or more of the rods (73) are connected to the drive shaft (72).

10. The ventilation device of claim 9.

12. The drive mechanism (70) a first operation of moving the lid (60) from a first position where the seal member (65) is compressed to a second position that is farther from the base portion (47) than the first position; After the first operation, a second operation is performed in which the lid (60) is rotated to a predetermined rotation angle while being maintained at the second position.

8. The ventilation device of claim 7.

13. The drive mechanism (70) After the second operation, a third operation is performed to move the lid (60) to the first position while maintaining the lid (60) at the predetermined rotation angle.

13. A ventilation device according to claim 12.

14. The predetermined rotation angle includes a first rotation angle at which the ventilation opening (VO) is entirely closed by the cover (60).

14. A ventilation device according to claim 13.

15. a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the rotation angle of the lid (60) reaches a set target value.

8. The ventilation device of claim 7.

16. a refrigerant leakage sensor (110) for detecting leakage of a refrigerant; a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the lid (60) is in a closed position when the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) detects a refrigerant leakage. A ventilation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

Images