Release mechanism and coupling system

Abstract

The couplings connecting the flow paths can be automatically and smoothly released. [Solution] A coupling release structure according to one embodiment includes a receiving portion projecting radially from the second coupling, a rod for pushing the receiving portion, and a first drive device for driving the rod. Furthermore, when the rod pushes the receiving portion while the first coupling and the second coupling are coupled, the second coupling rotates in the release direction, and the coupling between the first coupling and the second coupling is released.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an uncoupling mechanism for a coupling for connecting flow paths, and a coupling system including the uncoupling mechanism.

Background Art

[0002] For example, when constructing various flow paths for fire fighting, disaster prevention, industrial use, agricultural use and the like, a plurality of elements such as hoses and pumps are sometimes coupled by couplings.

[0003] In such a flow path, it may not be possible to manually uncouple the coupling. For example, when a hose used for fire fighting is coupled by a coupling, and depending on the fire situation, access of firefighters to the coupling is dangerous, or the coupling is located remotely from the firefighters, quick uncoupling is difficult. In addition, when the coupling has a large diameter, the weight of the coupling and the force required for uncoupling increase, and there may be cases where uncoupling cannot be easily performed by human power.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0004]

Patent Literature 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present invention is based on the circumstances as described above, and an object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide an uncoupling mechanism that can automatically and smoothly uncouple a coupling that connects flow paths, and a coupling system including the uncoupling mechanism.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] The release structure according to the present invention relates to the release of a first connector and a second connector that can be connected to each other and released by relative rotation in the release direction.

[0007] In one embodiment, the coupling release structure includes a rotating ring rotatably mounted on the first coupling, a receiving portion provided on the rotating ring, a rod that rotates the rotating ring by pressing the receiving portion, a first drive device that drives the rod, and a pressing portion provided on the rotating ring for pushing the second coupling in the release direction. Furthermore, when the rotating ring rotates while the first coupling and the second coupling are coupled, the second coupling, pressed by the pressing portion, rotates in the release direction, and the coupling between the first coupling and the second coupling is released.

[0008] In another embodiment, the release mechanism includes a receiving portion projecting radially from the second connector, a rod for pushing the receiving portion, and a first drive device for driving the rod. Furthermore, when the rod pushes the receiving portion while the first connector and the second connector are coupled, the second connector rotates in the release direction, and the coupling between the first connector and the second connector is released.

[0009] A coupling system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises the coupling release mechanism, the first coupling device, and the second coupling device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a coupling release mechanism that can automatically and smoothly release the coupling of coupling devices connecting flow channels, and a coupling system equipped with the coupling release mechanism. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of a coupling system. [Figure 2]Figure 2 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a configuration that can be applied to the first and second connectors of the coupling system described above. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view showing parts of the first and second connectors joined together. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of the release mechanism and the first coupling device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the first coupling, rotating ring, and pressing part according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the first connector according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the rotating ring according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first coupling and rotating ring according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of the hook and release pin of the first coupling device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view illustrating the operation of the rotating ring according to the first embodiment, showing the state when the first connector and the second connector are connected. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a perspective view illustrating the operation of the rotating ring according to the first embodiment, showing the state when the first and second connectors are disconnected. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the relationship between the hook of the first connector, the hook of the second connector, the release pin, and the lock pin when they are connected in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows how the engagement between the hook of the first connector and the hook of the second connector shown in Figure 12 is released by the release operation. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view showing other configurations that may be applied to the release mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view of the first connector, the second connector, and the release mechanism according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the uncoupling mechanism according to the second embodiment, showing the state when the first coupler and the second coupler are coupled. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the uncoupling mechanism according to the second embodiment, showing the state when the coupling between the first coupler and the second coupler is released. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] Several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. The coupling structure disclosed in each embodiment can be applied to construction of various flow paths for, for example, fire fighting, disaster prevention, industrial use, agricultural use, and the like.

[0013] [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a coupling system according to the present embodiment. The coupling system shown in this figure includes a first coupler 1A and a second coupler 1B that can be coupled to each other. The first coupler 1A is provided on a first connection target object OA. The second coupler 1B is provided on a second connection target object OB.

[0014] The first connection target object OA and the second connection target object OB each have a flow path. These flow paths are connected when the first coupler 1A and the second coupler 1B are coupled. The types of the first connection target object OA and the second connection target object OB are not particularly limited. In one example, the first connection target object OA is a fire truck, a water supply source, a pump, or a self-propelled robot, and the second connection target object OB is a hose or an intermediate fitting connected to the hose.

[0015] The coupling system further includes an uncoupling mechanism 2, an input device 30, a control device 31, and a power source 32. The uncoupling mechanism 2, the input device 30, the control device 31, and the power source 32 may be provided, for example, on one of the first connection target object OA and the second connection target object OB, or may be provided independently of the first connection target object OA and the second connection target object OB.

[0016] The release mechanism 2 releases the connection between the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B. Specific configurations applicable to the release mechanism 2 will be described later.

[0017] The input device 30 inputs a command to release the coupling between the first coupling device 1A and the second coupling device 1B to the control device 31. In one example, the input device 30 includes a communication device that receives release commands from an external source via wired or wireless connection, and inputs the release command received by the communication device to the control device 31. In another example, the input device 30 may include a button for inputting release commands, and input the release command to the control device 31 in response to the operation of this button.

[0018] The control device 31 drives the coupling release mechanism 2 in response to a release command input from the input device 30, releasing the coupling between the first coupling device 1A and the second coupling device 1B. In this embodiment, the control device 31 causes the power source 32 to supply power to drive the coupling release mechanism 2 in response to the input of a release command. The control device 31 may further control the elements of the coupling release mechanism 2 (for example, the first drive device 62 and the second drive device 73 described later).

[0019] Furthermore, the control device 31 may, for example, supply power from the power source 32 to the coupling release mechanism 2 when the detected values ​​of various sensors meet predetermined conditions. A specific example of such a sensor is a pressure sensor that detects the pressure in the flow path of the first connection target OA or the second connection target OB. The type of power supplied by the power source 32 to the coupling release mechanism 2 is not particularly limited, but in one example, pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric power may be used.

[0020] Figure 2 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a configuration applicable to the first connector 1A. The first connector 1A comprises a first cylindrical portion 11 and a second cylindrical portion 12 provided on the outer circumferential surface of the first cylindrical portion 11. In this embodiment, the direction parallel to the axis AX of the first connector 1A (the axis of the first cylindrical portion 11 and the second cylindrical portion 12) is called the axial direction DX, the direction perpendicular to the axis AX is called the radial direction DR, and the circumferential direction centered on the axis AX is called the circumferential direction Dθ.

[0021] The inside of the first cylindrical portion 11 forms a water flow channel. An annular sealing material SE is provided at the end 11a of the first cylindrical portion 11.

[0022] The second cylindrical portion 12 has a plurality of hooks 14 that protrude in the axial direction DX from the end 11a of the first cylindrical portion 11. These hooks 14 are arranged at regular intervals in the circumferential direction Dθ. Recesses 15 are formed between adjacent hooks 14. These recesses 15 are also arranged at regular intervals in the circumferential direction Dθ, similar to the hooks 14.

[0023] The hook 14 has a first side surface 141 and a second side surface 142 in the circumferential direction Dθ. The second side surface 142 is inclined with respect to the axial direction DX. As a result, the width of the hook 14 in the circumferential direction Dθ decreases towards the tip.

[0024] The first side surface 141 is provided with a claw portion 16 protruding in the circumferential direction Dθ and a recess 17 located closer to the base of the hook 14 than the claw portion 16. The second side surface 142 is provided with a ball plunger 18. For example, the ball plunger 18 includes a hole provided in the second side surface 142, a ball housed in this hole, and an elastic body that biases the ball toward the outside of the hole. A portion of the ball protrudes from the second side surface 142.

[0025] The configuration of the second connector 1B is the same as that of the first connector 1A. Specifically, the second connector 1B has multiple hooks 14 (second hooks) that are the same shape as the hook 14 (first hook) of the first connector 1A, and multiple recesses 15 (second recesses) that are the same shape as the recesses 15 (first recess) of the first connector 1A. In addition, the first side surface 141 of the hook 14 of the second connector 1B is provided with a claw portion 16 and a recess 17, and the second side surface 142 of the hook 14 is provided with a ball plunger 18.

[0026] Figure 3 is a side view showing a portion of the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B joined together. When joining the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B, the second connector 1B is pressed against the first connector 1A with their axes AX aligned. At this time, each hook 14 of the second connector 1B is inserted into the recess 15 of the first connector 1A, and each hook 14 of the first connector 1A is inserted into the recess 15 of the second connector 1B. In addition, the sealing material SE of the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B come into contact, sealing the gap between the two connectors.

[0027] When the second connector 1B is pushed as far as possible into the first connector 1A, the ball plungers 18 of both connectors come into contact and push against each other, causing the second connector 1B to rotate slightly in the circumferential direction Dθ. At this time, the claw portions 16 of both connectors engage and prevent them from coming loose in the axial direction DX.

[0028] Once the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B are connected, the connection is maintained by the biasing force of the ball plunger 18. To release the connection between the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B, the second connector 1B is rotated relative to the first connector 1A in the release direction DL (the direction indicated by the lower arrow in the figure, within the circumferential direction Dθ) against the biasing force of the ball plunger 18. This releases the engagement of each claw portion 16.

[0029] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of the release mechanism 2 and the first connector 1A according to this embodiment. In this figure, the first connector 1A and the release mechanism 2 are observed parallel to axis AX.

[0030] The coupling release mechanism 2 includes a rotating ring 4 that is rotatable in the circumferential direction Dθ relative to the first coupling device 1A. The rotating ring 4 is provided with a pressing portion 5 for pushing the second coupling device 1B in the aforementioned release direction DL. For example, the pressing portion 5 includes a release pin 50 extending in the radial direction DR and a holder 51 for holding the release pin 50.

[0031] In the example shown in Figure 4, one pressing portion 5 is provided for each hook 14 of the first connector 1A, but the example is not limited to this. That is, the number of pressing portions 5 may be less than the number of hooks 14 provided on the first connector 1A.

[0032] The coupling release mechanism 2 further comprises a receiving portion 40 provided on the rotating ring 4, a support portion 60 provided on the first coupling device 1A, a rod 61 for pushing the receiving portion 40, and a first drive device 62 for driving the rod 61.

[0033] The receiving portion 40 is, for example, a plate-shaped member that protrudes radially DR from the rotating ring 4. The support portion 60 is, for example, a plate-shaped member that protrudes radially DR from the first coupling 1A and faces the receiving portion 40 in the circumferential direction Dθ. The rod 61 is passed through a through hole 60a provided in the support portion 60. The first drive device 62 is fixed to the back surface of the support portion 60 (the surface opposite to the surface facing the receiving portion 40) and supports the rod 61.

[0034] In the example shown in Figure 4, three sets of receiving parts 40, support parts 60, rods 61, and first drive devices 62 are provided at a pitch of 120° in the circumferential direction Dθ. However, the number of sets of receiving parts 40, support parts 60, rods 61, and first drive devices 62 provided in the coupling release mechanism 2 may be two or fewer, or four or more.

[0035] The coupling release mechanism 2 further includes a locking device 7 to prevent unintended coupling of the first coupling 1A and the second coupling 1B. In the example shown in Figure 4, the locking device 7 includes a support portion 70 provided on the first coupling 1A, a rod 71, a locking pin 72 provided at the tip of the rod 71, and a second drive device 73 that drives the rod 71 and the locking pin 72.

[0036] The support portion 70 is, for example, a plate-shaped member located on the outside of the hook 14 in the radial direction DR. The rod 71 is passed through a through hole 70a provided in the support portion 70. The second drive device 73 is fixed to the back surface (outer surface in the radial direction DR) of the support portion 70 and supports the rod 71.

[0037] In one example, the first drive unit 62 includes a cylinder housing the rod 61. Similarly, the second drive unit 73 includes a cylinder housing the rod 71. In one example, the power source 32 shown in Figure 1 supplies high-pressure gas to the cylinders of the first drive unit 62 and the second drive unit 73, and uses this pressure to change the amount of protrusion of the rods 61 and 71 from each cylinder. In another example, the first drive unit 62 and the second drive unit 73 may be equipped with motors that change the amount of protrusion of the rods 61 and 71 from each cylinder. In this case, power is supplied to the first drive unit 62 and the second drive unit 73 from the power source 32. In addition to those exemplified here, various configurations can be applied to the first drive unit 62 and the second drive unit 73.

[0038] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the first coupling 1A, the rotating ring 4, and the pressing part 5. Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the first coupling 1A. Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the rotating ring 4. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first coupling 1A and the rotating ring 4. Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of the hook 14 and the release pin 50 of the first coupling 1A. Hereinafter, the details of each part of the coupling release mechanism 2 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to these figures.

[0039] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the first connector 1A includes a third cylindrical portion 13 located behind the hook 14. The support portion 60 is provided on the third cylindrical portion 13. For example, the support portion 60 is fixed to the third cylindrical portion 13 by fastening means such as screws. Figure 6 shows the first connector 1A with the support portion 60 removed from the third cylindrical portion 13.

[0040] As shown in Figure 5, the rotating ring 4 is positioned between the support portion 60 and the hook 14 in the axial direction DX. The rotating ring 4 also comprises a cylindrical base portion 41 and a flange portion 42 that protrudes radially DR from one end of the base portion 41.

[0041] For example, the receiving portion 40 is fixed to the base portion 41 by fastening means such as screws. Figure 7 shows the rotating ring 4 with the receiving portion 40 removed. The receiving portion 40 extends behind the base portion 41 to a position opposite the support portion 60 in the circumferential direction Dθ.

[0042] As shown in Figure 6, a pair of grooves 19 extending in the circumferential direction Dθ are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the third cylindrical portion 13. These grooves 19 are aligned in the axial direction DX.

[0043] As shown in Figure 7, a pair of grooves 43 extending in the circumferential direction Dθ are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the base portion 41 of the rotating ring 4. These grooves 43 are substantially the same shape as the pair of grooves 19 and are arranged in the axial direction DX at the same interval as the grooves 19.

[0044] As shown in Figure 8, the rotating ring 4 is mounted on the third cylindrical portion 13 such that a pair of grooves 43 are opposite to a pair of grooves 19. Multiple metal balls 20 are housed in the spaces formed by the grooves 19, 43. This forms a bearing B that allows the rotating ring 4 to rotate relative to the third cylindrical portion 13. The base portion of the second cylindrical portion 12, which has a hook 14, is held between the first cylindrical portion 11 and the rotating ring 4 in the radial direction DR.

[0045] Although not shown in Figure 8, the base portion 41 of the rotating ring 4 has a pair of through holes formed on its outer surface, each leading to a groove 43. Each ball 20 is placed through these through holes into the space formed by the grooves 19 and 43. After all the balls 20 have been placed, the through holes are closed by appropriate means such as screws.

[0046] As shown in Figure 5, the holder 51 of the pressing portion 5 is fixed to the front surface of the flange portion 42. The method of fixing the holder 51 to the flange portion 42 is not particularly limited, but in one example, screw fastening may be used.

[0047] As shown in Figure 9, the release pin 50 has a first portion 501 held by the holder 51 and a second portion 502 located on the inner diameter side (axis AX side) of the first portion 501. In Figure 9, the first portion 501 is cylindrical, but this is not the only example.

[0048] The second part 502 is wider than the first part 501. In this embodiment, the second part 502 has a shape that allows it to be inserted into the recess 17 of the hook 14. Specifically, the side surface of the second part 502 has a curved surface F1 and a flat surface F2.

[0049] As shown in Figure 9, the curved surface F1 faces the inner surface of the recess 17 when the second portion 502 is inserted into the recess 17. At this time, at least a portion of the curved surface F1 may be in contact with the inner surface of the recess 17. Preferably, the curved surface F1 has the same shape as the inner surface of the recess 17. In this case, the curved surface F1 and the inner circumferential surface of the recess 17 can be in surface contact.

[0050] The plane F2 is substantially parallel to, for example, the first side surface 141 of the hook 14. Specifically, it is preferable that the plane F2 is parallel to the tip portion 141a of the first side surface 141, which is located on the tip side of the hook 14 beyond the recess 17. The tip portion 141a protrudes circumferentially Dθ beyond the plane F2. From another point of view, the claw portion 16 protrudes circumferentially Dθ beyond the plane F2 to such an extent that it can engage with the claw portion 16 of the hook 14 of the second connector 1B even when the second portion 502 is inserted into the recess 17.

[0051] In the example shown in Figure 9, plane F2 is parallel to the root portion 141b of the first side surface 141, which is located closer to the root of the hook 14 than the recess 17. Furthermore, plane F2 is approximately in the same plane as the root portion 141b.

[0052] Figures 10 and 11 are perspective views illustrating the operation of the rotating ring 4. Some elements of the coupling release mechanism 2 are omitted in these figures.

[0053] The positional relationship between the first connector 1A and the rotating ring 4 shown in Figure 10 corresponds to the state when the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B are connected. Similarly, the positional relationship between the first connector 1A and the rotating ring 4 shown in Figure 11 corresponds to the state when the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B are disconnected.

[0054] In Figure 10, the release pins 50 of each pressing portion 5 are housed in the recesses 17 of each hook 14 of the first coupling device 1A, as shown in Figure 9. At this time, for each of the three sets of receiving portions 40 and support portions 60, a distance D in the circumferential direction Dθ is formed between the receiving portion 40 and the support portion 60.

[0055] Each first drive unit 62 (see Figure 4) drives the rod 61, increasing the amount of rod 61 protruding, causing the tip of the rod 61 to press against the receiving portion 40. As a result, as shown in Figure 11, the rotating ring 4 rotates in the release direction DL, and the distance D increases.

[0056] If bearing B shown in Figure 8 is formed, the rotating ring 4 can be rotated smoothly with low resistance. As a result, the output required for the first drive unit 62 is suppressed, so a smaller first drive unit 62 can be used.

[0057] Next, the details of the release operation of the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B by the release mechanism 2 will be explained using Figures 12 and 13. Figure 12 shows the relationship between the hook 14 of the first connector 1A, the hook 14 of the second connector 1B, the release pin 50, and the lock pin 72 when they are connected. Figure 13 shows how the engagement between the hook 14 of the first connector 1A and the hook 14 of the second connector 1B shown in Figure 12 is released by the release operation.

[0058] As shown in Figure 12, when the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B are connected, the second portion 502 of the release pin 50 is housed in the recess 17 of the hook 14 of the first connector 1A. At this time, if the second portion 502 has the shape shown in Figure 9, interference between the second portion 502 and the hook 14 of the second connector 1B can be suppressed.

[0059] Here, the recess 17 is an example of a first gap G1 formed between the first side surface 141 of the hook 14 of the first connector 1A and the hook 14 of the second connector 1B adjacent to the first side surface 141.

[0060] A second gap G2 is formed between the second side surface 142 of the hook 14 of the first connector 1A and the hook 14 of the second connector 1B adjacent to the second side surface 142. When the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B are connected, a lock pin 72 is inserted into this second gap G2.

[0061] When the locking pin 72 is inserted into the second gap G2, the second connector 1B cannot be rotated relative to the first connector 1A. Therefore, the connection between the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B is locked.

[0062] For example, the lock pin 72 is manually inserted into the second gap G2 after the first coupling 1A and the second coupling 1B are coupled. In another example, the lock pin 72 may be inserted into the second gap G2 by a second drive device 73. In this case, the command to drive the second drive device 73 may be input by the input device 30.

[0063] When the above-mentioned release command is input, the second drive unit 73 retracts the lock pin 72 from the second gap G2. Furthermore, each first drive unit 62 drives the rod 61, rotating the rotating ring 4 as shown in Figure 11.

[0064] At this time, as shown in Figure 13, the second portion 502 of the release pin 50 comes into contact with the first side surface 141 of the hook 14 of the second connector 1B, more specifically the tip portion 141a, and pushes the hook 14 in the release direction DL. As a result, the engagement between the hooks 14 of the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B is released, and the second connector 1B detaches from the first connector 1A.

[0065] If a flat surface F2 is provided on the second portion 502 of the release pin 50, the flat surface F2 will make surface contact with the first side surface 141 of the hook 14 of the second connector 1B when the coupling is released. Therefore, a good biasing force can be applied to the hook 14 of the second connector 1B in the release direction DL.

[0066] Furthermore, if the second part 502 has a curved surface F1 that is the same shape as the inner surface of the recess 17, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second part 502 can be increased and the strength of the release pin 50 can be increased compared to the case where the second part 502 is, for example, prismatic. Also, it is possible to suppress snagging when returning the release pin 50 to the recess 17 after disengaging. The operation of returning the release pin 50 to the recess 17 may be performed manually or by the first drive device 62.

[0067] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view showing other configurations that may be applied to the release mechanism 2. As shown in this figure, the release mechanism 2 may further include an elastic body 63 that biases the rotating ring 4 in the opposite direction to the release direction DL. This allows the release pin 50 to be automatically returned to the recess 17 after the release operation without requiring any special operation or drive, and facilitates the subsequent re-connection of the second connector 1B.

[0068] In Figure 14, an L-shaped stay 64 is fixed to the support portion 60, and locking members 65 and 66 are attached to the stay 64 and the receiving portion 40, respectively. The elastic body 63 has both ends locked to these locking members 65 and 66, and pulls the receiving portion 40 toward the support portion 60.

[0069] The elastic body 63 can be arranged in various ways, and is not limited to this example. For example, the elastic body 63 may be arranged to push the receiving portion 40 toward the support portion 60. One elastic body 63 may be provided for each pair of receiving portions 40 and support portions 60, or one may be provided for either pair.

[0070] [Second Embodiment] A second embodiment will now be described. In this embodiment, other configurations applicable to the release mechanism 2 are disclosed. Configurations not specifically mentioned are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0071] Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view of the first connector 1A, the second connector 1B, and the release mechanism 2 according to the second embodiment. The configuration for connecting the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B is the same as described above using Figure 2, etc.

[0072] The coupling release mechanism 2 according to this embodiment includes a support portion 80, a rod 81, and a first drive device 82 as elements provided on the first coupling device 1A. The coupling release mechanism 2 also includes a receiving portion 90 as an element provided on the second coupling device 1B.

[0073] In the example shown in Figure 15, two sets of support parts 80, rods 81, first drive devices 82, and receiving parts 90 are provided at a 180° pitch. However, the coupling release mechanism 2 may consist of one set of support parts 80, rods 81, first drive devices 82, and receiving parts 90, or three or more sets.

[0074] The support portion 80 is, for example, a long, plate-shaped member provided along the outer circumferential surface of the first connector 1A, and protrudes axially DX from the hook 14 of the first connector 1A. The rod 81 is passed through a through hole 80a provided in the support portion 80. The first drive device 82 is fixed near the tip of the support portion 80 and supports the rod 81. The receiving portion 90 is, for example, a long, plate-shaped member and extends radially DR from the outer circumferential surface of the second connector 1B.

[0075] The first drive unit 82 drives the rod 81 based on power supplied from the power source 32 shown in Figure 1. The first drive unit 82 can be configured in the same way as the first drive unit 62 disclosed in the first embodiment.

[0076] Although not shown in Figure 15, the coupling release mechanism 2 is equipped with a locking device 7, similar to the first embodiment. The configuration of the locking device 7 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0077] Figures 16 and 17 are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the coupling release mechanism 2 according to this embodiment. These figures show a simplified second coupling 1B, rod 81, first drive device 82, receiving part 90, and locking device 7, while the first coupling 1A and other components are omitted.

[0078] The state shown in Figure 16 corresponds to the state when the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B are connected. In this state, the tips of each rod 81 are facing the receiving portion 90 in the circumferential direction Dθ. Also, the lock pin 72 is positioned to restrict the unconnection of the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B (see Figure 12).

[0079] During the disengagement operation, as shown in Figure 17, the second drive unit 73 retracts the lock pin 72. Furthermore, each first drive unit 82 drives the rod 81, increasing the amount of rod 81 protruding. As a result, the tip of each rod 81 is pressed against the receiving portion 90, and the second connector 1B rotates in the disengagement direction DL. When the second connector 1B has rotated sufficiently, the engagement between the hooks 14 of the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B is released, and the second connector 1B detaches from the first connector 1A.

[0080] With the configuration of the coupling release mechanism 2 according to the first and second embodiments, the coupling between the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B can be automatically released without manual intervention. Furthermore, since the second connector 1B is rotated by mainly moving the rods 61 and 81 provided on the first connector 1A in the circumferential direction Dθ and pressing the receiving parts 40 and 90, the force for releasing the coupling can be efficiently applied to the second connector 1B, allowing the coupling between the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B to be released smoothly.

[0081] The above embodiments do not limit the scope of the present invention to the configurations disclosed in those embodiments. The present invention can be implemented by modifying the configurations disclosed in each embodiment in various ways. The configurations disclosed in each embodiment can be combined as appropriate as needed.

[0082] In each embodiment, it is assumed that the first connector 1A and the second connector 1B have the shapes shown in Figure 2, etc. However, the coupling release mechanism 2 disclosed in each embodiment can be applied to releasing connectors of various structures that can be released by relative rotation. The uncoupling structure and coupling system described in the original claims of this application are listed below. [1] A coupling release mechanism for a first coupling and a second coupling, which are able to be coupled to each other and released by relative rotation in the release direction, A rotating ring is rotatably mounted on the first coupling, The receiving portion provided on the aforementioned rotating ring, A rod that rotates the rotating ring by pressing the receiving portion, A first drive device that drives the aforementioned rod, The rotating ring is provided with a pressing portion for pushing the second coupling in the release direction, Equipped with, As the rotating ring rotates while the first connector and the second connector are connected, the second connector, which is pressed by the pressing part, rotates in the release direction, and the connection between the first connector and the second connector is released. Uncoupling mechanism. [2] The rotating ring is further provided with an elastic body that biases it in the opposite direction to the release direction. The coupling release mechanism described in [1] above. [3] The device further includes a bearing provided between the rotating ring and the first coupling. The coupling release mechanism described in [1] above. [4] The first connector is, A plurality of first hooks arranged circumferentially at the end of the first connector, A plurality of first recesses formed between adjacent first hooks, Equipped with, The second connector is, A plurality of second hooks arranged circumferentially at the end of the second connector, A plurality of second recesses formed between adjacent second hooks, Equipped with, When the first connector and the second connector are connected, the first hook is inserted into the second recess and the second hook is inserted into the first recess, and the first hook and the second hook engage with each other. The pressing portion includes a release pin that can be inserted into the gap formed between the first hook and the second hook when the first connector and the second connector are connected. The coupling release mechanism described in [1] above. [5] The aforementioned first hook is, A claw portion that engages with the second hook, A recess adjacent to the claw portion into which the release pin is inserted, Equipped with, The aforementioned release pin is The inner surface of the recess and the curved surface facing it, In the state in which the first connector and the second connector are connected, the plane facing the side surface of the second hook in the circumferential direction, It has, The release mechanism described in [4] above. [6] The device further includes a locking device that prevents the second connector from rotating in the release direction when the first connector and the second connector are connected. The release mechanism described in [5] above. [7] The aforementioned first hook is, In the state in which the first connector and the second connector are connected, the second hook and the first side surface facing the release direction, In the release direction, the second side is located on the opposite side of the first side, It has, The release pin is inserted into the first gap formed between the first side surface and the second hook adjacent to the first side surface when the first coupling and the second coupling are coupled together. The locking device is In the state in which the first connector and the second connector are connected, a lock pin is inserted into the second gap formed between the second side surface and the second hook adjacent to the second side surface, A second drive device for driving the lock pin, It is equipped with The coupling release mechanism described in [6] above. [8] A coupling release mechanism for a first coupling and a second coupling, which are able to be coupled to each other and released by relative rotation in the release direction, A receiving portion projecting radially from the second connector, A rod for pressing the aforementioned receiving portion, A first drive device that drives the aforementioned rod, Equipped with, When the rod presses the receiving portion while the first connector and the second connector are connected, the second connector rotates in the release direction, and the connection between the first connector and the second connector is released. Uncoupling mechanism. [9] The device further includes a locking device that prevents the second connector from rotating in the release direction when the first connector and the second connector are connected. The release mechanism described in [8] above.

[10] The first connector is, A plurality of first hooks arranged circumferentially at the end of the first connector, A plurality of first recesses formed between adjacent first hooks, Equipped with, The second connector is, A plurality of second hooks arranged circumferentially at the end of the second connector, A plurality of second recesses formed between adjacent second hooks, Equipped with, When the first connector and the second connector are connected, the first hook is inserted into the second recess and the second hook is inserted into the first recess, and the first hook and the second hook engage with each other. The locking device is In the state in which the first connector and the second connector are connected, a pin is inserted between the adjacent first hook and the second hook, A second drive device for driving the aforementioned pin, It is equipped with The release mechanism described in [9] above.

[11] A release mechanism described in any one of the above items [1] to

[10] , The first connector and, The second connector and, A coupling system equipped with the following features.

[12] At least one of the first connector and the second connector is connected to a hose. The coupling system described in

[11] above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0083] 1A...First coupling, 1B...Second coupling, 2...Release mechanism, 4...Rotating ring, 5...Pressing part, 7...Locking device, 14...Hook, 15...Recess, 19...Groove, 20...Ball, 30...Input device, 31...Control device, 32...Power source, 40...Receiving part, 50...Release pin, 60...Support part, 61...Rod, 62...First drive device, 63...Elastic body, 72...Locking pin, 73...Second drive device, B...Bearing, DL...Release direction.

Claims

1. A coupling release mechanism for a first coupling and a second coupling, which are able to be coupled to each other and released by relative rotation in the release direction, A receiving portion projecting radially from the second connector, A rod for pressing the aforementioned receiving portion, A first drive device that drives the aforementioned rod, Equipped with, When the rod presses the receiving portion while the first connector and the second connector are connected, the second connector rotates in the release direction, and the connection between the first connector and the second connector is released. Uncoupling mechanism.

2. The device further includes a locking device that prevents the second connector from rotating in the release direction when the first connector and the second connector are connected. The coupling release mechanism according to claim 1.

3. The first connector is, A plurality of first hooks arranged circumferentially at the end of the first connector, A plurality of first recesses formed between adjacent first hooks, Equipped with, The second connector is, A plurality of second hooks arranged circumferentially at the end of the second connector, A plurality of second recesses formed between adjacent second hooks, Equipped with, When the first connector and the second connector are connected, the first hook is inserted into the second recess and the second hook is inserted into the first recess, and the first hook and the second hook engage with each other. The locking device is In the state in which the first connector and the second connector are connected, a pin is inserted between the adjacent first hook and the second hook, A second drive device for driving the aforementioned pin, It is equipped with The coupling release mechanism according to claim 2.

4. A release mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The first connector and, The second connector and, A coupling system equipped with the following features.

5. At least one of the first connector and the second connector is connected to a hose. The coupling system according to claim 4.

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