Expansion valve

Abstract

To provide an expansion valve that can suppress wear on sliding parts while keeping costs down. [Solution] The expansion valve 1 comprises a valve body 2 having a valve chamber VC and a valve seat 20, a valve element 3 disposed in the valve chamber, and a vibration-damping spring 44 that displaces together with the valve element. The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and protrusions disposed on each leg, and the protrusions on each leg make surface contact with the inner wall of the valve chamber, or contact at two or more points.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an expansion valve.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a refrigeration cycle used in, for example, an air conditioner mounted on an automobile, a temperature-sensitive thermal expansion valve that adjusts the amount of refrigerant passing through according to temperature has been used. In such a thermal expansion valve, a power element that drives a valve body via an operating rod by the pressure of the enclosed working gas is adopted.

[0003] In the expansion valve of Patent Document 1, a first anti-vibration spring provided in the valve chamber of the valve body to prevent vibration of the valve body and a second anti-vibration spring that abuts on the operating rod that drives the valve body to prevent vibration of the valve body are provided.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The first anti-vibration spring of the expansion valve includes a base portion connected to the valve body and leg portions extending radially from the outer peripheral side of the base portion. The leg portions have a bent portion and a protrusion near the tip. Using the elastic force of the leg portions, the protrusion is pressed against the inner wall of the valve chamber, and the protrusion slides with respect to the inner wall as the valve body moves up and down, thereby exerting an anti-vibration effect on the valve body.

[0006] Here, because the projection is hemispherical, the contact between the projection and the inner wall of the valve chamber is point contact, and the contact pressure at the contact point is relatively high. As a result, there is a risk that the wear of the inner wall will increase due to the projection sliding against the inner wall over a long period of time. One solution to this is to apply an abrasion-resistant coating to the surface of the inner wall of the valve chamber, but this would increase manufacturing costs.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an expansion valve that can suppress wear on the sliding parts while keeping costs down. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, the expansion valve according to the present invention is A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs, Each leg portion is characterized by making line contact, surface contact, or contact at two or more points with the inner wall of the valve chamber.

[0009] The expansion valve according to the present invention is A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and a plurality of protrusions disposed on each leg. The plurality of protrusions are characterized in that they protrude toward the inner wall of the valve chamber and abut against the inner wall.

[0010] The expansion valve according to the present invention is A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and protrusions disposed on each leg. The protruding portion protrudes from the leg portion toward the inner wall of the valve chamber and extends along the circumferential direction of the inner wall of the valve chamber. The length of the protruding portion along the circumferential direction of the valve chamber is longer than the length of the protruding portion along the axial direction of the valve chamber. The protruding portion has a shape in which one location on one end side and one location on the other end side in the extending direction thereof abut on the inner wall, or has a shape in which it continuously abuts on the inner wall from the one end side to the other end side.

[0011] The expansion valve according to the present invention includes a valve body having a valve chamber and a valve seat, a valve element disposed in the valve chamber, and a vibration-proof spring that is displaced together with the valve element. The vibration-proof spring has a plurality of leg portions that are elastically deformable and protruding portions disposed on each leg portion. The protruding portion is annular and protrudes toward the inner wall of the valve chamber.

Advantages of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an expansion valve that can suppress wear of the sliding portion while suppressing an increase in cost.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing an example in which the expansion valve according to the first embodiment is applied to a refrigerant circulation system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the vicinity of the valve element of the expansion valve of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the vibration-proof spring. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the cross-section taken along line A-A (radial cross-section of the valve chamber) of FIG. 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a view showing the vibration-proof spring of the present embodiment in a developed state. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the vibration-proof spring of the present embodiment in a stacked state. [Figure 7]Figure 7 is a perspective view of a comparative example, a vibration-damping spring. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing the vibration-damping spring of the comparative example attached to the expansion valve in Figure 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the vibration-damping springs of the comparative example stacked together. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows the vibration-damping spring according to the second embodiment in an unfolded state. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing a vibration-damping spring according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the tip of the leg portion according to a modified example of this embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows the vibration-damping spring according to the third embodiment in an unfolded state. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing a vibration-damping spring according to the third embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing a modified example of this embodiment of a vibration-damping spring. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows the vibration-damping spring according to the fourth embodiment in an unfolded state. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing a vibration-damping spring according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows the vibration-damping spring according to the fifth embodiment in an unfolded state. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing a vibration-damping spring according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 2, showing a vibration-damping spring according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 21] Figure 21 shows the vibration-damping spring according to the sixth embodiment in an unfolded state. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an expansion valve according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 23] Figure 23 shows the ring spring of the seventh embodiment in an unfolded state. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] (Definition of direction) In this specification, the direction from the valve body 3 toward the actuator rod 5 is defined as "upward," and the direction from the actuator rod 5 toward the valve body 3 is defined as "downward." Therefore, in this specification, regardless of the orientation of the expansion valve 1, the direction from the valve body 3 toward the actuator rod 5 is referred to as "upward."

[0015] (First Embodiment) The expansion valve 1 in the first embodiment will be described below. Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example in which the expansion valve 1 in this embodiment is applied to a refrigerant circulation system 100. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the area around the valve body of the expansion valve 1 in Figure 1. The center line of the operating rod 5 of the expansion valve 1 is defined as axis L.

[0016] In this embodiment, the expansion valve 1 is fluidly connected to the compressor 101, the condenser 102, and the evaporator 103.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the expansion valve 1 comprises a valve body 2 having a valve chamber VC with an inner wall that is a cylindrical surface (or cylindrical surface), a spherical valve element 3 disposed within the valve chamber VC, a biasing device 4, an operating rod 5, and a power element 8. The spherical shape of the valve element 3 is just one example, and the valve is not limited to this shape.

[0018] The valve body 2 is made of aluminum, for example, and includes a valve chamber VC, a first flow path 21, a second flow path 22, an intermediate chamber 221, and a return flow path 23. The first flow path 21 is a supply-side flow path, and refrigerant is supplied to the valve chamber VC via this flow path. The second flow path 22 is a discharge-side flow path, and the fluid in the valve chamber VC is discharged to the outside of the expansion valve via the orifice hole 27, the intermediate chamber 221, and the discharge-side flow path.

[0019] The first flow path 21 and the valve chamber VC are connected by a smaller diameter connecting passage (also called an introduction passage) 21a than the first flow path 21. The valve chamber VC and the intermediate chamber 221 are connected via the valve seat 20 and the orifice hole 27.

[0020] The operating rod insertion hole 28 formed above the intermediate chamber 221 has the function of guiding the operating rod 5, and the annular recess 29 formed above the operating rod insertion hole 28 has the function of housing the ring spring 6. The ring spring 6 applies a predetermined biasing force by bringing a plurality of spring pieces into contact with the outer circumference of the operating rod 5 along the circumferential direction.

[0021] The valve body 3 is positioned within the valve chamber VC so as to be able to move toward and away from the valve seat 20. When the valve body 3 is seated on the valve seat 20 of the valve body 2, the flow of refrigerant through the orifice hole 27 is restricted. This state is called the non-communication state. However, even when the valve body 3 is seated on the valve seat 20, a limited amount of refrigerant may still flow. On the other hand, when the valve body 3 is separated from the valve seat 20, the flow of refrigerant through the orifice hole 27 increases. This state is called the communication state.

[0022] The operating rod 5 is inserted through the orifice hole 27 with a predetermined gap. The lower end of the operating rod 5 is in contact with the upper surface of the valve body 3. The upper end of the operating rod 5 is fitted into the fitting hole 84c of the stopper member 84, which will be described later.

[0023] The actuator rod 5 can press the valve body 3 in the opening direction against the biasing force of the biasing device 4. When the actuator rod 5 moves downward, the valve body 3 separates from the valve seat 20, and the expansion valve 1 opens.

[0024] Next, the biasing device 4 will be described. In Figure 1, the biasing device 4 includes a coil spring 41 made by winding a circular wire spirally, a valve body support 42 attached to the upper end of the coil spring 41 to support the valve body 3, a spring receiving member 43 attached to the valve body 2 while supporting the lower end of the coil spring 41, and a vibration damping spring 44. The spring receiving member 43 has the function of sealing the valve chamber VC of the valve body 2 and supporting the end of the coil spring 41 that biases the valve body 3 toward the valve seat 20.

[0025] A spherical valve body 3 is welded to the upper surface of the valve body support 42, and the two are integrated. The welding of the valve body support 42 and the valve body 3 is one example of how they can be fixed together, but welding is not the only way they can be fixed together.

[0026] In Figure 2, the valve support 42 has a disc-shaped flange portion 42a and a cylindrical portion 42b connected to the lower surface of the flange portion 42a. The valve support 42 can be formed by press molding, forging, or the like.

[0027] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the vibration-damping spring 44. Figure 4 is a plan view of section AA (radial section of valve chamber VC) in Figure 2. Figure 5 shows the vibration-damping spring 44 in an unfolded state. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the vibration-damping spring 44 in a stacked state.

[0028] As shown in Figure 3, the vibration-damping spring 44 consists of a base portion 44a and leg portions 44b connected together, and can be formed by press forming from an elastic metal sheet material such as stainless steel. Figure 5 shows the vibration-damping spring 44 after press forming and before bending the leg portions 44b. By press forming a flat metal sheet into the shape shown in Figure 5 and forming the raised portion 44d, the vibration-damping spring 44 can be formed at low cost by bending each leg portion 44b and the bent portion 44f as described later. Note that the order of the process for forming the vibration-damping spring 44 is not limited to that above.

[0029] The base portion 44a is a substantially annular part that forms the upper part of the vibration-damping spring 44 and has a circular mounting hole 44c in the center. The inner diameter of the mounting hole 44c is approximately equal to the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 42b of the valve body support 42.

[0030] Multiple legs 44b extend radially from the outer circumference of the base 44a, and eight legs 44b of a common shape are provided at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction. Each leg 44b is elastically deformable and is bent downward in a roughly L-shape at an angle less than right to the base 44a, and has a holding portion 44e near its tip that holds a raised portion 44d aligned around the centerline of the valve chamber VC. It is preferable to have at least three or more legs 44b so that the posture of the vibration-damping spring 44 can be stabilized.

[0031] When the direction from the base 44a side (also called the root side of the leg portion 44b) toward the tip of the leg portion 44b is defined as the vertical direction, and the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction is defined as the horizontal direction, the horizontal width of the holding portion 44e is greater than the horizontal width of the leg portion 44b other than the holding portion 44e. Furthermore, both horizontal sides of the holding portion 44e are bent toward the base 44a side (opposite side from the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC) at a predetermined angle, thereby forming a bent portion 44f. Note that the bent portion 44f may be provided only at one end of the holding portion 44e. In addition, the bending angle of the bent portion 44f with respect to the holding portion 44e is preferably approximately right angle, but is not limited to this.

[0032] Furthermore, each retaining portion 44e has two hemispherical protrusions 44d that are aligned along the lateral direction of the retaining portion 44e and project outward. The protrusions 44d are hemispherical projections that protrude toward the inner wall VCa side of the valve chamber VC, and have a corresponding recess on their inner side (opposite the inner wall of the valve chamber VC). The cross-section of the protrusion 44d perpendicular to the projection direction of the protrusion 44d relative to the leg portion 44b becomes smaller toward the inner wall of the valve chamber VC. In other words, the cross-section of the protrusion 44d perpendicular to the projection direction of the protrusion 44d relative to the leg portion 44b becomes smaller toward the tip in the projection direction. The cross-section referred to here indicates the outer edge and the area inside the edge in the cut shape. In this embodiment, the protrusion 44d is used as the projection and has a recess on the inside. Therefore, the cross-section obtained by cutting the protrusion 44d as described above has, depending on the cutting position, an annular actual flesh portion and an empty portion surrounded by this flesh portion. The cross-section includes the annular fleshy portion and the hollow portion inside this annular fleshy portion. For example, if the projection is not a raised portion but has a solid interior, the cross-section will show only the fleshy portion.

[0033] As shown in Figure 5, the holding portion 44e is positioned symmetrically with respect to the center of the leg portion 44b, and the shape of the holding portion 44e when viewed from the front is rectangular. The folded portions 44f on both sides of the holding portion 44e are, for example, rectangular in shape, and the shape is the same on both sides, and the lower ends of both sides are also at the same position. In this way, because the shape of the folded portions 44f on both sides and the position of the lower ends are the same, when multiple vibration-damping springs 44 are stacked, they can be stacked while maintaining the posture of the multiple vibration-damping springs. Note that the rectangular shape of the folded portion 44f is just one example.

[0034] In this embodiment, the width of the tip of the leg portion 44b is wider than the portion closer to the base of the leg portion 44b, and a bent portion 44f, which is a wall portion extending away from the inner wall of the valve chamber VC, is formed at at least one end in the width direction of the tip, and a raised portion 44d is formed at the tip. Since the holding portion 44e is flat, one raised portion 44d can abut against the inner wall of the valve chamber VC at one point, and since there are two raised portions 44d, one leg portion 44b abuts against the inner wall VCa at two points.

[0035] One example of a protruding portion is the raised portion 44d, which is hemispherical as an example. However, as another example of a protruding portion, the cross-section of the protruding portion perpendicular to the direction of protrusion relative to the leg portion 44b may be smaller towards the tip in the direction of protrusion, and may have a shape other than hemispherical. As an example of this, the protruding portion may be conical, pyramidal, or have a curved surface on its outer surface that bulges toward the inner wall of the valve chamber VC. The tip of the protruding portion having these shapes abuts against the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC. It should be noted that the protruding portion is not limited to a raised portion with an inward recess. The protruding portion does not have to be a shape that protrudes toward the inner wall of the valve chamber VC and has a recess on its inner side (opposite the inner wall of the valve chamber VC). That is, the portion of the leg portion with a protruding portion may have a shape in which the thickness increases in proportion to the protruding portion.

[0036] Alternatively, the protruding portion may be, for example, a portion formed by bending the lower end of the holding portion 44e radially outward from the base portion 44a so that it abuts against the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC at two points. Or, the leg portion 44b may not have a protruding portion, and both ends of the lower end of the leg portion 44b in the width direction may abut against the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC. Even in this configuration, the leg portion 44b will abut against the inner wall VCa at two points.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the vibration-damping spring 44 is assembled such that the base portion 44a is sandwiched between the flange portion 42a of the valve body support 42 and the coil spring 41, with the cylindrical portion 42b of the valve body support 42 inserted through the mounting hole 44c. Furthermore, the cylindrical portion 42b is inserted inside the coil spring 41. After mounting the valve body 3, valve body support 42, vibration-damping spring 44, and coil spring 41 onto the spring receiving member 43, the biasing device 4 can be installed on the valve body 2 by inserting them into the valve chamber VC of the valve body 2 and screwing the spring receiving member 43 onto the valve body 2. At this time, as shown in Figure 1, an O-ring OR with a sealing function is placed between the spring receiving member 43 and the valve body 2.

[0038] When the biasing device 4 is installed in the valve chamber VC, the two raised portions 44d of each leg 44b make point contact with the cylindrical inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC at points P1 and P2, respectively, as shown in Figure 4. Each leg 44b receives reaction forces F1 and F2 from points P1 and P2 and elastically deforms toward the coil spring 41. Points P1 and P2 lie on the intersection of the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC and a plane perpendicular to the center line of the inner wall VCa, and are the points where the hemispherical outer surface of the raised portion 44d makes contact. At this time, the raised portion 44d applies a pressing force to points P1 and P2 based on the elastic force of the leg 44b. Note that even when the valve body 3 is in its lowest position, the raised portion 44d is set so as not to enter the connection passage 21a of the valve body 2. Three or more raised portions 44d may be provided on the leg 44b, and they may make contact with the inner wall VCa at three or more locations.

[0039] Here, point contact refers to at least one of the following contacts: the first contact, the second contact, and the third contact.

[0040] The first contact has a contact area of ​​2 mm². 2 The following are the types of contacts.

[0041] The second type of contact occurs when, in a cross-section including the contact point (point P1 or point P2) between the inner wall VCa and the raised portion 44d, both the outer surface of the raised portion 44d and the inner wall VCa are curved surfaces, and their curvatures are different.

[0042] The third type of contact is when, in a cross-section including the contact point between the inner wall VCa and the raised portion 44d, the raised portion 44d includes two surfaces of different shapes, and the boundary portion of these two surfaces with different shapes contacts the inner wall VCa. Here, two surfaces with different shapes include cases where they have the same shape in a plan view but different orientations. For example, if the shape of the raised portion 44d in a cross-section including the contact point between the inner wall VCa and the raised portion 44d is triangular, the point where the two planes intersect contacts the inner wall VCa, and in this case, the shapes of the two planes may be the same. However, because the orientations of these two planes are different, a point where these two planes intersect is created, and this point comes into contact with the inner wall VCa. The third type of contact also includes such contact.

[0043] In this embodiment, the contact between the raised portion 44d and the inner wall VCa is a point contact that satisfies both the first and second contact conditions. As shown in Figure 4, when the expansion valve 1 is cut perpendicular to the axis of the valve chamber VC, the curvature of the inner wall VCa is different from the curvature of the outer surface of the raised portion 44d (in Figure 4, the curvature of the outer surface of the raised portion 44d is greater than the curvature of the inner wall VCa).

[0044] If the raised portion 44d is cylindrical and extends vertically, the cross-section of the expansion valve 1, as shown in Figure 4, will be the same as in Figure 4. However, the contact between the raised portion 44d and the inner wall VCa will be maintained for a longer vertical length, resulting in a contact area of ​​2 mm². 2 It may become larger. In this way, while making a second contact, the contact area is 2 mm 2 A larger contact is defined as a line contact. The direction in which the contact of the second line contact is maintained is not limited to the vertical direction. Furthermore, the range in which the contact is maintained may be curved. In this embodiment, a line contact is an example of a point contact. Similarly, if the third contact is maintained for a long distance, for example in the vertical direction, the contact area becomes 2 mm². 2 Larger contacts also become line contacts. Similarly, the direction in which the contact of a third line contact is maintained is not limited to the vertical direction. Furthermore, the range in which the contact is maintained may be curved.

[0045] Next, the power element 8 will be described. In Figure 1, the power element 8 is attached to a recess 2a provided at the top of the valve body 2. The recess 2a communicates with the return passage 23 inside the valve body 2 through a communication passage 2b, through which the refrigerant from the evaporator 103 passes.

[0046] The power element 8 includes a plug 81, an upper cover member 82, a diaphragm 83, a stopper member 84, and a receiving member 86.

[0047] A hole 82a is formed at the top of the upper lid member 82, and it can be sealed with a plug 81.

[0048] The diaphragm 83 is made of a thin plate material with multiple concentric circular indentations formed on it.

[0049] The stopper member 84 has a disc portion and a cylindrical portion coaxially connected to the lower surface of the disc portion, and a fitting hole 84c is formed in the center of the lower end of the cylindrical portion.

[0050] The receiving member 86 has a flange portion having an outer diameter approximately the same as that of the upper cover member 82, and a hollow cylindrical portion connected to the lower end of the flange portion, with a male thread 86c formed on the outer circumference of the hollow cylindrical portion.

[0051] During the assembly of the power element 8, the outer periphery of the upper cover member 82, the diaphragm 83, and the flange portion of the receiving member 86 are first overlapped, and these outer periphery portions are then integrated by circumferential welding, such as TIG welding, laser welding, or plasma welding.

[0052] Next, after sealing the working gas into the space enclosed by the upper cover member 82 and the diaphragm 83 (called the pressure working chamber PO) through the hole 82a formed in the upper cover member 82, the hole 82a is sealed with a plug 81, and the plug 81 is then fixed to the upper cover member 82 using projection welding or the like.

[0053] At this time, the working gas sealed in the pressure working chamber PO causes the diaphragm 83 to be subjected to pressure in a way that causes it to protrude toward the receiving member 86, and so it is supported by contacting the upper surface of the stopper member 84 located in the lower space LS surrounded by the diaphragm 83 and the receiving member 86. Furthermore, since the disc portion of the stopper member 84 is held by the receiving member 86, the stopper member 84 will not come out of the power element 8.

[0054] When assembling the power element 8 to the valve body 2, with the upper end of the operating rod 5 fitted into the fitting hole 84c of the stopper member 84, the operating rod 5 is inserted into the valve body 2 while passing through the ring spring 6 assembled to the valve body 2, and the lower end is brought into contact with the valve body 3. Furthermore, the male thread 86c of the receiving member 86 is screwed into the female thread 2c of the recess 2a of the valve body 2 and screwed in to fix the power element 8 to the valve body 2. In this state, the lower space LS of the power element 8 is in communication with the return passage 23.

[0055] A packing PK is interposed between the assembled power element 8 and the valve body 2, sealing the space within the recess 2a that connects to the lower space LS, thereby preventing external leakage of refrigerant from the recess 2a. In this state, the lower space LS of the power element 8 is in communication with the return flow path 23 via a communication passage 2b formed between the recess 2a and the return flow path 23.

[0056] (Operation of the expansion valve) Referring to Figure 1, an example of the operation of the expansion valve 1 will be explained. The refrigerant pressurized by the compressor 101 is liquefied in the condenser 102 and sent to the expansion valve 1. The refrigerant that has been adiabatically expanded in the expansion valve 1 is then sent to the evaporator 103, where it undergoes heat exchange with the air flowing around it. The refrigerant returning from the evaporator 103 is returned to the compressor 101 side through the expansion valve 1 (more specifically, the return passage 23).

[0057] The expansion valve 1 is supplied with high-pressure refrigerant from the condenser 102. More specifically, the high-pressure refrigerant from the condenser 102 is supplied to the valve chamber VC via the first flow path 21.

[0058] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, when the valve body 3 is seated on the valve seat 20 (non-communication state), the flow rate of refrigerant sent from the valve chamber VC to the evaporator 103 through the orifice hole 27, intermediate chamber 221, and second flow path 22 is limited. On the other hand, when the valve body 3 is separated from the valve seat 20 (communication state), the flow rate of refrigerant sent from the valve chamber VC to the evaporator 103 through the orifice hole 27, intermediate chamber 221, and second flow path 22 increases. Switching between the closed and open states of the expansion valve 1 is performed by an operating rod 5 connected to the power element 8 via a stopper member 84.

[0059] In Figure 1, the power element 8 is provided with a pressure-operated chamber PO and a lower space LS, separated by a diaphragm 83. Therefore, when the pressure of the working gas in the pressure-operated chamber PO decreases, the diaphragm 83 rises, causing the stopper member 84 and the operating rod 5 to move upward in accordance with the biasing force of the coil spring 41.

[0060] On the other hand, when the pressure of the working gas in the pressure working chamber PO increases, the diaphragm 83 and the stopper member 84 are pressed downwards, causing the operating rod 5 to move downwards. Furthermore, the refrigerant in the return passage 23 can pass through the gap between the stopper member 84 and the receiving member 86 to the lower space LS of the power element 8. Therefore, the volume of the working gas in the pressure working chamber PO changes according to the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the return passage 23, and the operating rod 5 is driven. In other words, in the expansion valve 1 shown in Figure 1, the amount of refrigerant supplied from the expansion valve 1 to the evaporator 103 is automatically adjusted according to the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant returning from the evaporator 103 to the expansion valve 1.

[0061] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the raised portion 44d of the leg portion 44b of the vibration-damping spring 44 comes into contact with the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC, the leg portion 44b undergoes elastic deformation. As a result, the raised portion 44d is pressed against the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC with a predetermined force by the elastic force of the leg portion 44b, thereby generating sliding resistance in accordance with the movement of the valve body 3. This makes it possible to suppress vibrations of the valve body 3 and the operating rod 5.

[0062] (Comparative example) Next, the advantages of this embodiment will be described in comparison with the comparative example. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the comparative example, vibration-damping spring 44'. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing the comparative example vibration-damping spring 44' attached to the expansion valve in Figure 1. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the comparative example vibration-damping springs 44' stacked on top of each other.

[0063] The vibration-damping spring 44' has a base portion 44a and leg portions 44b', similar to the vibration-damping spring 44 of the above embodiment, but each leg portion 44b' has a semicircular holding portion 44e' and further has a single protrusion 44d' projecting outward from the holding portion 44e'. The vertical length of the leg portion 44b' is equal to the vertical length of the leg portion 44b including the holding portion 44e of the above embodiment. The other configurations are also the same as in the above embodiment.

[0064] Since each leg portion 44b' has a single raised portion 44d', when the comparative example vibration damping spring 44' is attached to the expansion valve 1, as shown in Figure 8, each leg portion 44b makes point contact with the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC at point P3, and each leg portion 44b receives a reaction force F3 from point P3 and elastically deforms toward the coil spring 41 (see Figure 2).

[0065] Here, assuming that the elastic forces of leg portion 44b' and leg portion 44b are equal, F3 ≈ F1 + F2, so the contact pressure at point P3 is approximately twice the contact pressure at points P1 and P2. Since the amount of wear on the sliding part increases in proportion to the contact pressure, according to this embodiment, the amount of wear between the raised portion 44d and the inner wall VCa can be halved compared to the comparative example. In particular, if the vibration-damping spring 44 is made of stainless steel and the valve body 2 is made of aluminum, there is a risk that the wear on the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC, which has lower hardness than the vibration-damping spring 44, will increase, but according to this embodiment, the wear on the inner wall VCa can be suppressed.

[0066] On the other hand, since F3 ≈ F1 + F2, the frictional force acting on point P3 is approximately equal to the total frictional force acting on points P1 and P2. Therefore, the vibration-damping spring 44 of this embodiment can exhibit the same vibration-damping effect as the vibration-damping spring 44' of the comparative example.

[0067] Furthermore, when storing multiple vibration-damping springs 44, for example, if multiple vibration-damping springs 44 are housed in a storage container such as a box, the multiple vibration-damping springs 44 may become integrated by stacking them on top of each other. In this case, as shown in Figure 9, since the raised portion 44d' of the comparative example has a hollow hemispherical shape, if the inner surface of the raised portion 44d' of the stacked upper vibration-damping spring 44' engages with the outer surface of the raised portion 44d' of the lower vibration-damping spring 44', it becomes difficult to separate the two vibration-damping springs 44' vertically, which may reduce ease of handling.

[0068] In contrast, according to this embodiment, when the vibration-damping springs 44 are stacked vertically, as shown in Figure 6, the lower edge of the bent portion 44f of the holding portion 44e of the stacked upper vibration-damping spring 44 comes into contact with the upper edge of the holding portion 44e or the upper edge of the bent portion 44f of the lower vibration-damping spring 44, thereby avoiding engagement between the hollow hemispherical protrusions 44d, and thereby improving ease of handling.

[0069] In this embodiment, the two raised portions 44d of one leg portion 44b each make point contact with the inner wall VCa. However, in other examples, at least one of the multiple raised portions 44d of one leg portion 44b may make surface contact with the inner wall VCa. In this embodiment, surface contact is a type of contact other than point contact.

[0070] (Second embodiment) Figure 10 shows the vibration-damping spring 44A according to the second embodiment in an unfolded state. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing the vibration-damping spring 44A. The vibration-damping spring 44A can be used in place of the vibration-damping spring 44 in the expansion valve 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0071] The vibration-damping spring 44A of this embodiment differs from the above embodiment in that the lateral ends of the holding portion 44Ae of the leg portion 44Ab are not bent. By not bending the holding portion 44Ae, the manufacturing process of the vibration-damping spring 44A can be simplified, while still exhibiting the same vibration damping effect and wear reduction effect as the vibration-damping spring 44 of the above embodiment. The other configurations of the vibration-damping spring 44A are the same as those of the above embodiment, so a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0072] Furthermore, as shown in the modified example in Figure 12, the lateral width of the leg portion 44Ab can be made uniform along the length of the leg portion 44Ab. In other words, the lateral width of the holding portion 44Ae can be made equal to the lateral width of the leg portions 44Ab other than the holding portion 44e.

[0073] (Third embodiment) Figure 13 shows the vibration-damping spring 44B according to the third embodiment in an unfolded state. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of Figure 4. The vibration-damping spring 44B can also be used in place of the vibration-damping spring 44 in the expansion valve 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0074] The vibration-damping spring 44B of this embodiment differs from that of the second embodiment in that the raised portion 44Bd formed on the leg portion 44Bb is a single unit and has a shape that is substantially semi-cylindrical, rising along the lateral direction of the holding portion 44Be. However, the lateral ends of the holding portion 44Be may be bent to form a bent portion (similar to the embodiment having a holding portion that is longer laterally than the lateral width of the leg portion other than the holding portion). Note that the method of forming the bent portion is not limited to bending, and in other examples, it may be formed by fixing the holding portion 44Be and a separate member to the holding portion 44Be with fixing means. The fixing means may be, for example, welding or adhesive.

[0075] When the vibration-damping spring 44B is assembled to the expansion valve, as shown in Figure 14, the raised portion 44Bd extends along the circumferential direction of the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC. That is, the raised portion 44Bd, which is a protruding part, projects from the leg portion 44Bb toward the inner wall VCa and extends along the circumferential direction of the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC.

[0076] The length of the raised portion 44Bd along the circumferential direction of the valve chamber VC is longer than the length of the raised portion 44Bd along the axis of the valve chamber VC, in other words, the length of the raised portion 44Bd in the vertical direction. The raised portion 44Bd has a shape in which one point on one end and one point on the other end in the direction of its extension abut against the inner wall VCa. Note that "one end" includes not only the exact end but also the surrounding portion. Similarly, "the other end" includes not only the exact other end but also the surrounding portion.

[0077] As shown in Figure 14, the raised portion 44Bd has arc-shaped ends in the width direction, and the portion connecting these arcs is straight. The boundary between this arc-shaped portion and the straight portion is in contact with the inner wall VCa. In other words, the raised portion 44Bd is in contact with the inner wall VCa by a third type of contact.

[0078] Therefore, at points P1 and P2 near the lateral end of the raised portion 44Bd, the raised portion 44Bd makes point contact with the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC at two locations, and the leg portion 44Bb receives reaction forces from points P1 and P2 and elastically deforms toward the coil spring 41.

[0079] The raised portion 44Bd has a shape in which the cross-section of the raised portion 44Bd perpendicular to the direction in which the raised portion 44Bd protrudes relative to the leg portion 44Bb becomes smaller toward the inner wall VCa. In this embodiment, the outer surface of the raised portion 44Bd has a shape in which the shape obtained by cutting along the cross-section perpendicular to the direction in which the raised portion 44Bd extends is, for example, a triangular prism shape or a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall VCa. An example of a shape that bulges toward the inner wall VCa is a semi-cylindrical shape. The rest of the configuration of the vibration-damping spring 44B is the same as in the above embodiment, so a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0080] Furthermore, as shown in the modified example in Figure 15, the shape of the outer surface of the raised portion 44Bd can be adjusted to conform to the cylindrical shape of the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC, thereby allowing the raised portion 44Bd to make line contact or surface contact with the inner wall VCa. That is, the raised portion 44Bd has a shape that continuously abuts the inner wall VCa from one end to the other. As a result, the contact surface pressure of the raised portion 44Bd is reduced, which further reduces wear on the sliding part.

[0081] If the raised portion 44Bd has a shape such that, for example, the outer surface of the raised portion 44Bd is triangular prism-shaped or a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall VCa, then when the expansion valve 1 is cut in a cross-sectional view with a cross section parallel to the vertical direction passing through the center line of the valve chamber VC, the raised portion 44Bd and the inner wall VCa will be in point contact (second contact, third contact), and this contact will be maintained along the inner wall VCa. The contact area will be 2 mm². 2 If the size increases, the raised portion 44Bd will be in line contact with the inner wall VCa.

[0082] (Fourth embodiment) Figure 16 shows the vibration-damping spring 44C according to the fourth embodiment in an unfolded state. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing the vibration-damping spring 44C. The vibration-damping spring 44C can also be used in place of the vibration-damping spring 44 in the expansion valve 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0083] The vibration-damping spring 44C of this embodiment differs from that of the third embodiment in that the raised portion 44Cd formed on the holding portion 44Ce of the leg portion 44Cb is formed in a curved shape. The other configurations of the vibration-damping spring 44C are the same as those of the above embodiment, so a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0084] When the vibration-damping spring 44C of this embodiment is bent from the flat plate shape shown in Figure 16 and formed into the product shape shown in Figure 3, and assembled to the valve chamber VC, the raised portion 44Cd is recessed downwards in the center and around it compared to both ends of the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC in the circumferential (lateral) direction.

[0085] In other words, the raised portion 44Cd extends along the circumferential direction of the inner wall VCa, and is curved such that one end and the other end in the direction of its extension are located above the center and surrounding area in the direction of its extension.

[0086] Such a curved shape of the raised portion 44Cd is an example of a shape in which one point on one end and one point on the other end in the direction of extension abut against the inner wall VCa, and the one end and the other end are located above the space between the one end and the other end.

[0087] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17, the center and surrounding area of ​​the raised portion 44Cd in the direction in which it extends are recessed inward in the radial direction of the vibration-damping spring 44C. That is, the raised portion 44Cd has recesses B on the surface of the raised portion 44Cd facing the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC, at the center and surrounding area in the direction in which it extends, which are recessed away from the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VCa from the portion that abuts the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VCa on that surface (in this embodiment, one location on one end and one location on the other end in the direction in which it extends). The recesses B open upward.

[0088] Furthermore, the raised portion 44Cd in this embodiment has a shape obtained by deforming the raised portion 44Bd shown in Figure 14 of the third embodiment into a curved shape as described above. For this reason, the raised portion 44Cd has a recess B and is in contact (point contact or surface contact) with the inner wall VCa at two points: one point on one end and one point on the other end in the direction in which it extends.

[0089] The cross-section of the raised portion 44Cd perpendicular to the direction of projection of the raised portion 44Cd relative to the leg portion 44Cb becomes smaller toward the inner wall VCa. The shape obtained by cutting the outer surface of the raised portion 44Cd in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the raised portion 44Cd extends is preferably triangular or a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall VCa. Since the raised portion 44Cd is curved as described above, the direction in which the raised portion 44Cd extends is also curved.

[0090] According to this embodiment, the lubricant mixed with the refrigerant in the valve chamber VC tends to accumulate in the recess B of the raised portion 44Cd (the part indicated by arrow B in Figures 16 and 17), and this lubricant can be used to lubricate the sliding surface between the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC and the raised portion 44Cd. Furthermore, the recess B is recessed in the upper part of the central and surrounding portions of the raised portion 44Cd. As a result, the gap between the portion below the recess B and the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber becomes smaller than the gap between the recess B and the inner wall VCa, making it easier for lubricant to accumulate in the recess B.

[0091] In this embodiment, one example described is a configuration in which the raised portion 44Cd contacts the inner wall of the valve chamber VC at one point on one end and one point on the other end in the direction of extension. In other examples, the raised portion 44Cd may have a shape in which the raised portion 44Bd, which continuously contacts the inner wall VCa from one end to the other in the direction of extension, is positioned above the center in the direction of extension, as described with reference to Figure 15 as a modification of the third embodiment, and the center and surrounding portions in the direction of extension are recessed inward in the radial direction of the vibration-damping spring 44C. This recess B opens upward as shown in Figure 16 for the raised portion 44Cd. As shown in Figure 15, the raised portion 44Cd according to this modification can continuously contact the inner wall VCa from one end to the other in the direction of extension, while also being able to store lubricant using the recess B.

[0092] (Fifth embodiment) Figure 18 shows the vibration-damping spring 44D according to the fifth embodiment in an unfolded state. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing the vibration-damping spring 44D. The vibration-damping spring 44D can also be used in place of the vibration-damping spring 44 in the expansion valve 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0093] The vibration-damping spring 44D of this embodiment differs from the third embodiment in that the holding portion 44De of the leg portion 44Db is formed in a semicircular shape, and the raised portion 44Dd formed on the holding portion 44De is formed in an annular shape that protrudes toward the inner wall of the valve chamber VC. The cross-section of the raised portion 44Dd perpendicular to the direction of protrusion of the raised portion 44Dd relative to the leg portion 44Db becomes smaller toward the inner wall VCa. The shape obtained by cutting the outer surface of the raised portion 44Dd along a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the raised portion 44Dd is preferably triangular or a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall VCa. The rest of the configuration of the vibration-damping spring 44D is the same as in the above embodiment, so a redundant explanation is omitted.

[0094] When the vibration-damping spring 44D is assembled to the expansion valve, as shown in Figure 19, the raised portion 44Dd makes point contact with the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC at points P1 and P2, and the leg portion 44Db receives the reaction force from points P1 and P2 and elastically deforms toward the coil spring 41. The raised portion 44Dd may also have a shape that makes contact with the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC at three or more points.

[0095] Furthermore, when the raised portion 44Dd contacts the inner wall VCa, a space SP is created between the inner wall VCa and the leg portion 44Db at the center of the raised portion 44Dd, and lubricant tends to accumulate in this space SP. Therefore, the lubricant accumulated in this space SP can be used to lubricate the sliding surface between the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber VC and the raised portion 44Dd.

[0096] (Sixth embodiment) Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 2, showing the vibration-damping spring 44E according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 21 is a diagram showing the vibration-damping spring 44E according to the sixth embodiment in an unfolded state. The vibration-damping spring 44E can also be used in place of the vibration-damping spring 44 in the expansion valve 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0097] The vibration-damping spring 44E of this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in that each leg portion 44Eb has two hollow hemispherical protrusions 44Ed arranged vertically and two horizontally, forming a total of four protrusions 44Ed (2 columns and 2 rows). Three or more protrusions 44Ed may be formed. The rest of the configuration of the vibration-damping spring 44E is the same as in the above embodiment, so a redundant explanation will be omitted.

[0098] In this embodiment, an example of a configuration in which multiple protrusions (three or more) are formed on a single leg is shown, as well as an example of a configuration in which multiple protrusions are arranged in the vertical direction of the inner wall VCa. In other examples, the multiple protrusions may be arranged one in the circumferential direction (lateral direction) and multiple in the vertical direction on a single leg. Alternatively, the multiple protrusions may be arranged multiple in the circumferential direction and one in the vertical direction on a single leg.

[0099] (Seventh Embodiment) Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the expansion valve 1F according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 23 is a diagram showing the ring spring 6F of the seventh embodiment in an unfolded state.

[0100] The expansion valve 1F of this embodiment differs from the expansion valve of the first embodiment only in the ring spring 6F; therefore, a redundant explanation of the other common components will be omitted.

[0101] The ring spring 6F comprises a base portion 61 and a plurality of legs 65. The base portion 61 is annular and fixed within the annular recess 29. In this embodiment, since the annular recess 29 is a recess whose inner circumferential surface is a cylindrical surface, for example, the base portion 61 is cylindrical. The outer circumferential surface of the base portion 61 is in surface contact with the inner circumferential surface of the annular recess 29. The operating rod 5 is positioned inside the base portion 61.

[0102] The multiple legs 65 are provided, for example, in the form of three. The multiple legs 65 are arranged at equal intervals around the base 61 in the circumferential direction. The multiple legs 65 extend toward the center of the base 61. The multiple legs 65 abut against the outer circumferential surface of the operating rod 5 in one direction around the operating rod 5. Such a ring spring 6F can be formed from a metal sheet, such as stainless steel, by press working. The structure of the ring spring 6F will be described below based on the unfolded state of the ring spring 6F, as shown in Figure 23.

[0103] In Figure 23, the longitudinal direction of the rectangular plate-shaped base 61 is defined as the Y direction, and the width direction as the X direction. A rectangular tongue portion 62 is attached to one end of the base 61 in the Y direction, and a tongue portion receiver 63 is formed on the other end to receive the tongue portion 62. The base 61 has three rectangular openings 64 at predetermined intervals along the Y direction.

[0104] From the Y-direction end of each rectangular opening 64, a leg portion 65 extends in a cantilevered manner along the Y-direction, and a holding portion 66 is formed at the end of each leg portion 65, extending in both directions in the X-direction from that end. Each holding portion 66 has two hollow hemispherical protrusions 67 formed along the X-direction at equidistant from the leg portion 65. The ring spring 6F has a shape symmetrical in the X-direction with respect to the center line of the leg portion 65.

[0105] The ring spring 6F is formed by winding the unfolded base 61 into a cylindrical shape, with the tongue portion 62 being held by the tongue receiver 63 at the other end. Each leg portion 65 extends radially inward from the cylindrically wound base portion 61. In this wound state, the ring spring 6F is housed in the annular recess 29 as shown in Figure 22.

[0106] According to this embodiment, two raised portions 67 contact the outer circumference of the operating rod 5, which is inserted inside the ring spring 6F, for each leg portion 65, thereby applying an elastic force based on the leg portion 65, while the raised portions 67 slide in accordance with the vertical displacement of the operating rod 5. At this time, each leg portion 65 can suppress vibration of the operating rod 5 while minimizing wear, as the raised portions 67 make point contact with the outer circumference of the operating rod 5 at two points, upper and lower.

[0107] In the above-described embodiment, an example was described in which the ring spring 6F is constructed by shaping a press-formed metal plate into a cylindrical shape. In other words, as shown in Figure 23, a deployable configuration of the ring spring 6F was described as one example. The ring spring 6F may have a configuration other than this deployable configuration. For example, it may be constructed by fixing a plurality of legs 65, which are made up of separate components, to a non-deployable cylindrical base 61.

[0108] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, two raised portions 67 are formed on one leg portion 65, but the invention is not limited to this. In other examples, three or more raised portions 67 may be formed on one leg portion 65.

[0109] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, one example of a configuration was described in which the multiple protrusions 67 formed on one leg portion 65 are arranged in a line in the axial direction of the operating rod 5. In other examples, the multiple protrusions 67 formed on one leg portion 65 may be arranged in the circumferential direction of the operating rod 5. Alternatively, as described in the sixth embodiment above, multiple protrusions may be arranged in both the axial direction and the circumferential direction of the operating rod 5.

[0110] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Within the scope of the present invention, any component of the embodiments described above can be modified. Furthermore, any component can be added or omitted in the embodiments described above. For example, the shape in which the protrusion is a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall VCa of the valve chamber includes hemispherical and semi-ellipsoidal shapes.

[0111] This specification includes disclosures of the following inventions. (First aspect) A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs, Each leg portion makes line contact, surface contact, or contact at two or more points with the inner wall of the valve chamber. An expansion valve characterized by the following features.

[0112] (Second aspect) A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and a plurality of protrusions disposed on each leg. An expansion valve characterized in that the plurality of protrusions protrude toward the inner wall of the valve chamber and abut against the inner wall.

[0113] (Third aspect) The cross-section of the protrusion perpendicular to the direction of projection relative to the leg portion becomes smaller towards the tip in the projection direction. An expansion valve according to a second embodiment, characterized by the following:

[0114] (Fourth aspect) The protruding portion has a conical, pyramidal, or curved shape in which the outer surface bulges toward the inner wall. An expansion valve according to a second or third embodiment, characterized by the following:

[0115] (Fifth aspect) A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and protrusions disposed on each leg. The aforementioned protrusion extends from the leg portion toward the inner wall of the valve chamber and along the circumferential direction of the inner wall of the valve chamber, and the length of the protrusion along the circumferential direction is longer than the length of the protrusion along the axial direction of the valve chamber. The protruding portion has a shape in which one point on one end and one point on the other end in the direction of its extension abuts against the inner wall, or has a shape in which it abuts against the inner wall continuously from one end to the other end. An expansion valve characterized by the following features.

[0116] (Sixth aspect) The cross-section of the protrusion perpendicular to the direction of projection relative to the leg portion has a shape that becomes smaller towards the tip in the direction of projection. A fifth embodiment of an expansion valve characterized by the following:

[0117] (Seventh aspect) The aforementioned inner wall is a cylindrical surface, The aforementioned protrusion has a shape such that its outer surface is a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall, or a triangular prism shape. An expansion valve according to a fifth or sixth embodiment, characterized by the following:

[0118] (Eighth aspect) The protruding portion has a shape in which one end and the other end are located above the space between the one end and the other end. An expansion valve according to any of the fifth to seventh embodiments, characterized by the following:

[0119] (Ninth aspect) The shape obtained by cutting the outer surface of the protruding portion in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the protruding portion extends is triangular, or a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall. An expansion valve according to an eighth embodiment, characterized by the following:

[0120] (Tenth aspect) A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and protrusions disposed on each leg. The aforementioned projection is annular in shape and protrudes toward the inner wall of the valve chamber. An expansion valve characterized by the following features.

[0121] (The 11th aspect) The cross-section of the protrusion perpendicular to the direction of projection relative to the leg portion becomes smaller towards the tip in the direction of projection. A tenth embodiment of an expansion valve characterized by the following:

[0122] (The 12th aspect) The shape obtained by cutting the outer surface of the protrusion along a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the protrusion is triangular, or a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall. An expansion valve according to a tenth or eleventh embodiment, characterized by the above.

[0123] (The 13th aspect) The width of the tip of the leg is wider than the part of the leg closer to the base. At least one end of the tip portion in the width direction is formed with a wall portion extending away from the inner wall, A protrusion is formed at the tip portion. An expansion valve according to any of the first to twelfth embodiments, characterized by the above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0124] 1. 1F: Expansion valve 2: Valve body 3: Valve body 4: Biasing device 5: Actuator rod 6, 6F: Ring spring 8: Power Element 20: Alveolar seat 21: First channel 22: Second channel 221: Intermediate Room 23: Return channel 27: Orifice hole 28: Actuator rod insertion hole 29: Annular recess 41: Coil spring 42: Valve support 43: Spring support member 44, 44A, 44B, 44C, 44F: Vibration damping springs 81: Stopper 82: Top cover component 83: Diaphragm 84: Stopper component 86: Receiving member 100: Refrigerant circulation system 101: Compressor 102: Capacitor 103: Evaporator VC: Valve chamber

Claims

1. A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs, Each leg portion makes line contact, surface contact, or contact at two or more points with the inner wall of the valve chamber. An expansion valve characterized by the following features.

2. A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and a plurality of protrusions disposed on each leg. An expansion valve characterized in that the plurality of protrusions protrude toward the inner wall of the valve chamber and abut against the inner wall.

3. The cross-section of the protrusion perpendicular to the direction of projection relative to the leg portion becomes smaller towards the tip in the projection direction. The expansion valve according to feature 2.

4. The protruding portion has a conical, pyramidal, or curved shape in which the outer surface bulges toward the inner wall. The expansion valve according to claim 3.

5. A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and protrusions disposed on each leg. The aforementioned protrusion extends from the leg portion toward the inner wall of the valve chamber and along the circumferential direction of the inner wall of the valve chamber, and the length of the protrusion along the circumferential direction is longer than the length of the protrusion along the axial direction of the valve chamber. The expansion valve is characterized in that the protruding portion has a shape in which one point on one end and one point on the other end in the direction of its extension abuts against the inner wall, or has a shape in which it abuts against the inner wall continuously from one end to the other end.

6. The cross-section of the protrusion perpendicular to the direction of projection relative to the leg portion has a shape that becomes smaller towards the tip in the direction of projection. The expansion valve according to claim 5, characterized in that it is a feature of the present invention.

7. The aforementioned inner wall is a cylindrical surface, The aforementioned protrusion has a shape where its outer surface is curved and bulges toward the inner wall, or it is triangular prism-shaped. The expansion valve according to feature 6.

8. The protruding portion has a shape in which one end and the other end are located above the space between the one end and the other end. The expansion valve according to claim 5, characterized in that it is a feature of the present invention.

9. The shape obtained by cutting the outer surface of the protruding portion in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the protruding portion extends is triangular, or a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall. The expansion valve according to feature 8.

10. A valve body comprising a valve chamber and a valve seat, A valve body arranged in the valve chamber, It has a vibration-damping spring that is displaced together with the valve body, The vibration-damping spring has a plurality of elastically deformable legs and protrusions disposed on each leg. The aforementioned projection is annular in shape and protrudes toward the inner wall of the valve chamber. An expansion valve characterized by the following features.

11. The cross-section of the protrusion perpendicular to the direction of projection relative to the leg portion becomes smaller towards the tip in the direction of projection. The expansion valve according to claim 9.

12. The shape obtained by cutting the outer surface of the protrusion along a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the protrusion is triangular, or a curved surface that bulges toward the inner wall. The expansion valve according to claim 10.

13. The width of the tip of the leg is wider than the part of the leg closer to the base. At least one end of the tip portion in the width direction is formed with a wall portion extending away from the inner wall, A protrusion is formed at the tip portion. An expansion valve according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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