Piping Connection Fittings

Abstract

In this invention, a plurality of split flare nuts (1) define an opening portion (OP) and change the opening dimensions (D1b, D1d) of the opening portion (OP) between a first state of being spaced apart from the flare joint (31) and a second state of being connected to the flare joint (31). A flare nut slide clamp (2) linearly moves relative to each of the plurality of split flare nuts (1), to thereby deform each of the plurality of split flare nuts (1) between the first state and the second state. The plurality of split flare nuts (1) each have a connection surface (1c) to be connected to the flare joint (31) in the second state. The connection surface (1c) is formed from a curved surface.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a pipe connection fitting. [Background technology]

[0002] A technology for enabling a pipe and a fitting to be detachably attached is disclosed, for example, in Utility Model Registration No. 3199795 (Patent Document 1). The pipe fitting described in Patent Document 1 employs a cone and thread system. With this pipe fitting, a reliable tightening force is obtained by the force of the threads of the fitting body and the nut screwing together and the reaction force of the cone being pressed against the nut. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Utility model registration No. 3199795 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the piping joint described in Patent Document 1, the joint body and the nut are connected by screwing together, which increases the time required for the screw connection work, resulting in poor efficiency in the connection work.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above, and has an object to provide a pipe connection joint that is efficient in connection work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The pipe connection joint of the present disclosure is a pipe connection joint to be connected to a pipe, and includes a connection member and a moving member. The connection member has an opening, and changes the opening dimension of the opening between a first state in which it is separated from the pipe and a second state in which it is connected to the pipe. The moving member moves linearly relative to the connection member, thereby deforming the connection member between the first state and the second state. The connection member has a connection surface that is connected to the pipe in the second state, and the connection surface is configured with a curved surface. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the pipe connection joint of the present disclosure, the connection member is deformed between the first state in which it is separated from the pipe and the second state in which it is connected to the pipe by linear movement of the moving member, which reduces the time required for the connection work and improves the efficiency of the connection work. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a pipe connection joint according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which a tip of a split flare nut is open in the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 3] 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which a tip of a split flare nut is closed in the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a first step of connecting the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment to a flare joint. FIG. [Diagram 5] 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a second step of connecting the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment to the flare joint. FIG. [Figure 6] 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a third step of connecting the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment to the flare joint. FIG. [Figure 7] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a fourth step of connecting the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment to the flare joint. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram showing a state in which a pipe connection joint according to a first embodiment is attached to an articulated robot. [Figure 9]6 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a pipe connection joint according to a second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10] 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a pipe connection joint according to a second embodiment is connected to a flare joint. FIG. [Figure 11] 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a pipe connection joint according to a third embodiment is connected to a flare joint. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the specification and drawings, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will not be repeated. In addition, in the drawings, configurations may be omitted or simplified for convenience of explanation. In addition, at least a part of each embodiment may be combined with each other in any desired manner.

[0010] Embodiment 1 <Configuration of piping connection fittings> First, the configuration of a pipe connection joint according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0011] Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a pipe connection joint according to embodiment 1. As shown in Fig. 1, a pipe connection joint 10 of the present embodiment can be connected to a flare joint 31, which is a pipe, and can be disconnected from the flare joint 31.

[0012] The pipe connection joint 10 has a plurality of split flare nuts 1, a flare nut slide clamp 2, a seal bush 3, a seal bush slider 4, a seal bush slider stopper 5, and a base 6.

[0013] The base 6 has, for example, a cylindrical shape. The base 6 has a groove 6a. The groove 6a extends in the direction of an axis C (dash line) from a rear end surface 6c of the base 6 to a front end surface 6d of the base 6. The axis C is an imaginary straight line extending along the center of the cylinder of the base 6.

[0014] The multiple split flare nuts 1 constitute a connection member that is connected to a flare joint 31. Furthermore, each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 serves as a connection part that is connected to the flare joint 31. Each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is attached to a base 6 via a rotating shaft 1a.

[0015] Each of the multiple flare nuts 1 has a tip portion 1b located at one end in the longitudinal direction of the flare nut 1 and a root portion 1d located at the other end. Each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is rotatable about a rotation shaft 1a relative to the base 6. Specifically, the root portion 1d is attached to the tip portion of the base 6 via the rotation shaft 1a, and the tip portion 1b rotates with the rotation shaft 1a as a fulcrum. The rotation shaft 1a extends, for example, in a direction perpendicular to the axis C.

[0016] A tip portion 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 protrudes from a tip surface 6d of the base 6 on the side opposite to a rear end surface 6c. A tip portion 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 has a connection surface 1c that is connected to a flare joint 31. The connection surface 1c is a surface on the axis C side (the surface on the inner circumference side) of the tip portion 1b, and is configured as a curved surface.

[0017] Each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is biased by a biasing member (not shown) in a direction in which the tip portion 1b is centered on the rotation shaft 1a and moves away from the axis C (in the outer circumferential direction centered on the axis C). The biasing member is, for example, a spring.

[0018] The flare nut slide clamp 2 has, for example, a cylindrical shape. The flare nut slide clamp 2 surrounds the outer periphery of the base 6 and is disposed so as to be concentric with the base 6. Being concentric means that imaginary straight lines extending along the cylindrical centers of the flare nut slide clamp 2 and the base 6 share a common axis C.

[0019] The flare nut slide clamp 2 is a moving member that moves linearly relative to the base 6 along the direction in which the axis C extends. The flare nut slide clamp 2 slides against the base 6 by moving linearly along the direction in which the axis C extends.

[0020] A sliding guide 2a is attached to the inner peripheral surface of the flare nut slide clamp 2. The sliding guide 2a has a portion extending along the axis C. The sliding guide 2a is inserted into a groove 6a of the base 6. The sliding guide 2a guides the linear movement of the flare nut slide clamp 2 by moving within the groove 6a.

[0021] The seal bushing 3 has, for example, a cylindrical shape. The outer periphery of the seal bushing 3 is surrounded by the base 6, and the seal bushing 3 is disposed concentrically with the base 6. The tip of the seal bushing 3 is the portion that is pressed against the flare joint 31. The seal bushing 3 is made of a material such as rubber. The seal bushing 3 is made of a material and has a thickness that allows it to maintain airtightness between the seal bushing 3 and the flare joint 31 by deforming when pressed against the flare joint 31.

[0022] The seal bush slider 4 has, for example, a cylindrical shape. The seal bush slider 4 is connected to the rear end of the seal bush 3 and extends rearward from the rear end of the seal bush 3. The outer diameter of the seal bush slider 4 is smaller than the outer diameter of the seal bush 3. The seal bush slider 4 may be formed integrally with the seal bush 3 using the same material.

[0023] The seal bush 3 and the seal bush slider 4 are connected to be concentric with each other. The seal bush 3 and the seal bush slider 4 have a flow path 3a. The flow path 3a passes through the seal bush 3 and the seal bush slider 4 from the rear end surface of the seal bush slider 4 to the front end surface of the seal bush 3.

[0024] With the tip of the seal bushing 3 pressed against the flare joint 31, the flow path 3a communicates with the flow path 31a of the flare joint 31. A fluid (e.g., gas) supplied to the flow path 31a of the flare joint 31 or a fluid recovered from the flow path 31a flows through the flow path 3a.

[0025] The seal bushing 3 and the seal bushing slider 4 are linearly movable relative to the base 6 along the direction in which the axis C extends. The seal bushing 3 slides on the base 6 by moving linearly along the direction in which the axis C extends.

[0026] The seal bushing slider stopper 5 limits the movement of the seal bushing slider 4 in the direction of the axis C. In this way, the seal bushing slider stopper 5 prevents the seal bushing 3 from slipping out of the inner circumferential area of ​​the base 6.

[0027] The seal bushing slider stopper 5 has a cylindrical portion 5a and an annular portion 5b. The cylindrical portion 5a has a cylindrical shape and is fixed to a base 6. The cylindrical portion 5a extends rearward from a rear end surface 6c of the base 6. The cylindrical portion 5a of the seal bushing slider stopper 5 may have a shape other than a cylindrical shape.

[0028] The annular portion 5b has, for example, a circular ring shape, and its outer peripheral edge is connected to the rear end of the cylindrical portion 5a. The inner peripheral edge of the annular portion 5b forms a through hole, through which the seal bush slider 4 is inserted. The diameter of the through hole is larger than the outer diameter of the seal bush slider 4 and smaller than the outer diameter of the seal bush 3.

[0029] Each of split flare nut 1, flare nut slide clamp 2, seal bushing slider 4, and seal bushing slider stopper 5 is constructed with a thickness and material that will not deform when pipe connection joint 10 and flare joint 31 are connected. Each of flare nut slide clamp 2, seal bushing slider 4, seal bushing slider stopper 5, and base 6 may be a tubular shape other than a cylindrical shape, such as a square pipe, or may be a shape other than a cylindrical shape.

[0030] Also, a female thread may be formed on the inner peripheral surface 1c of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1, and a male thread may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the flare joint 31. In other words, the connection surface where the surface 1c and the outer peripheral surface of the flare joint 31 come into contact has a threaded portion. When the surface 1c and the outer peripheral surface of the flare joint 31 come into contact with each other, the female thread and the male thread mesh with each other, thereby preventing the flare joint 31 from coming out of the multiple split flare nuts 1.

[0031] The male thread provided in flare joint 31 is one of three sizes, 7 / 16-20UNF, 5 / 8-18UNF, and 3 / 4-16UNF, as defined in ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 263. Flare joint 31 is made of brass, for example. By changing the sizes of split flare nut 1, flare nut slide clamp 2, seal bush 3, seal bush slider 4, seal bush slider stopper 5, and base 6, flare joint 31 can also accommodate sizes other than those mentioned above.

[0032] <Modifications of piping connection joints> Next, a variation of the pipe connection joint of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs.

[0033] 2 and 3 are perspective views showing the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment with the tip of the split flare nut in an open state and a closed state.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 2, the multiple split flare nuts 1 are arranged separately from one another along a circumference centered on the axis C. The multiple split flare nuts 1 have an opening OP. In other words, the multiple split flare nuts 1 form an opening OP that is surrounded by the multiple split flare nuts 1. The opening OP is a space for inserting the flare joint 31.

[0035] The opening dimensions D1b, D1d of the opening OP change between the open state shown in Fig. 2 and the closed state shown in Fig. 3. Specifically, the opening dimension D1b of the opening OP when the tip of the split flare nut 1 is open as shown in Fig. 2 is larger than the opening dimension D1d of the opening OP when the tip of the split flare nut 1 is closed as shown in Fig. 3. Each of the opening dimensions D1b, D1d is, for example, the diameter of a virtual circumference on which the inner circumferential surfaces at the leading ends of the multiple split flare nuts 1 are disposed. In addition, the opening dimension is not limited to the diameter of the circumference, and may be the distance between the split flare nuts 1 facing each other across the axis C.

[0036] In addition, the diameter D1a of an imaginary circumference on which the outer peripheral surfaces at the tip ends of the multiple split flare nuts 1 in the open state shown in FIG. 2 are located is larger than the inner diameter D2 of the flare nut slide clamp 2 having a cylindrical shape. Therefore, when the flare nut slide clamp 2 is moved linearly along the axis C toward the tip 1b side of the split flare nut 1, the flare nut slide clamp 2 comes into contact with the outer peripheral surface (the surface on the outer peripheral side centered on the axis C) of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1. As a result, each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 rotates about the rotation axis 1a against the biasing force of the biasing member, and the tip 1b moves toward the inner peripheral side centered on the axis C. As a result, the pipe connection joint 10 is transformed from the open state shown in FIG. 2 to the closed state shown in FIG. 3.

[0037] In the open state shown in Fig. 2, even if the flare joint 31 is inserted into the opening OP so that the cylindrical center of the flare joint 31 coincides with the axis C, each of the split flare nuts 1 does not come into contact with the flare joint 31 and is separated from the flare joint 31 (first state). On the other hand, in the closed state shown in Fig. 3, each of the split flare nuts 1 comes into contact with the flare joint 31 (second state). The closed state shown in Fig. 3 does not mean that the opening OP is completely closed, but rather that the opening dimension of the opening OP is smaller than that in the open state shown in Fig. 2.

[0038] 2 and 3, the shapes of the split flare nuts 1 and the like are simplified. For this reason, the portions of the tips 1b of the split flare nuts 1 that bulge outward toward the inner periphery are omitted. The configuration of the base 6 near the mounting portion of the split flare nuts 1 is also simplified.

[0039] In the present embodiment, the multiple split flare nut 1 has been described as having a structure in which the nut is divided into four, but the number of divisions is not limited to four and may be two, three, five or more. The number of divisions of the split flare nut 1 may be any number as long as the multiple split flare nuts 1 grip the flare fitting 31 when closed and the pipe connection fitting 10 and the flare fitting 31 are concentric.

[0040] <How to connect piping fittings> Next, a method of connecting the pipe connection joint of this embodiment to a flare joint and a method of releasing the connection will be described with reference to Figs. 2 to 7.

[0041] 4 to 7 are cross-sectional views showing a method of connecting the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment to a flare joint in the order of steps.

[0042] The pipe connection joint 10 of this embodiment can be transformed between an open state shown in Fig. 2 and a closed state shown in Fig. 3 by linearly moving the flare nut slide clamp 2 relative to the base 6 along the axis C. In the open state shown in Fig. 2, the pipe connection joint 10 and the flare joint 31 can be disconnected. In the closed state shown in Fig. 3, the pipe connection joint 10 and the flare joint 31 can be connected. First, a method of connecting the pipe connection joint 10 to the flare joint 31 by changing the pipe connection joint 10 from the open state to the closed state will be described.

[0043] 4, in the open state, the flare nut slide clamp 2 is retracted rearward. In this state, the tip portion 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is moved in a direction away from the axis C (in the circumferential direction around the axis C) by the biasing force of the biasing member.

[0044] 5, the pipe connection joint 10 approaches the flare joint 31 while maintaining an open state and loosely aligning its axis with the flare joint 31. This causes the flare joint 31 to be inserted into the opening OP of the pipe connection joint 10. In this state, each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is separated from the flare joint 31 (first state).

[0045] 6, after the pipe connection joint 10 approaches the flare joint 31 to an appropriate position, the flare nut slide clamp 2 moves linearly along the axis C relative to the base 6. At this time, the flare nut slide clamp 2 moves toward the tip portions 1b of the multiple split flare nuts 1.

[0046] During this movement, the inner peripheral surface of the flare nut slide clamp 2 comes into contact with the outer peripheral surfaces of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1. As a result, each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 rotates synchronously with one another, with the rotation shaft 1a as a fulcrum.

[0047] As the flare nut slide clamp 2 approaches the tip 1b of the split flare nut 1, the tip 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 gradually moves toward the axis C. This gradually reduces the opening dimension of the opening OP, and the inner circumferential surface 1c of the tip 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 comes into contact with the flare fitting 31 (second state). At this time, because the inner circumferential surface 1c of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is a curved surface, a type of piping connection fitting 10 can be used to accommodate flare fittings 31 of different diameters.

[0048] In this manner, the flare joint 31 is held by the split flare nuts 1. In a state in which the flare joint 31 is held by the split flare nuts 1, the flare joint 31 and the seal bushing 3 are concentric.

[0049] 7, after the flare joint 31 is gripped by the multiple split flare nuts 1, the seal bushing slider 4 moves toward the flare joint 31 along the axis C. This causes the seal bushing 3 attached to the tip of the seal bushing slider 4 to be pressed against the flare joint 31. Pressing the seal bushing 3 against the flare joint 31 eliminates any gap between the seal bushing 3 and the flare joint 31, ensuring airtightness between the pipe connection joint 10 and the flare joint 31. Thereafter, a fluid (e.g., gas) is supplied or collected through the pipe connection joint 10 and the flare joint 31.

[0050] Next, a method for releasing the connection between the pipe connection joint and the flare joint will be described. The connection between the pipe connection joint 10 and the flare joint 31 is disconnected by reversing the procedure for connecting the pipe connection joint 10 to the flare joint 31. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 7, from a state in which the pipe connection joint 10 and the flare joint 31 are connected, the seal bush slider 4 moves toward the seal bush slider stopper 5.

[0051] 6, the movement of the seal bushing slider 4 releases the connection between the seal bushing 3 and the flare joint 31. When the seal bushing slider 4 moves, the seal bushing slider stopper 5 limits the rearward movement of the seal bushing slider 4.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 5, the flare nut slide clamp 2 moves linearly rearward (the opposite side to the tip portion 1b of the split flare nut 1) along the axis C. As a result, each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 rotates around the rotation axis 1a due to the biasing force of the biasing member. This rotation causes the tip portion 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 to move in the circumferential direction around the axis C. This increases the opening dimension of the opening OP, and the connection between each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 and the flare joint 31 is released.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4, the pipe connection fitting 10 is moved away from the flare fitting 31 to complete the disconnection process.

[0054] <Configuration in which pipe connection joints are attached to an articulated robot> Next, a configuration in which the pipe connection joint according to this embodiment is attached to an articulated robot will be described with reference to FIG.

[0055] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a state in which the pipe connection joint according to the first embodiment is attached to a multi-joint robot. As shown in Fig. 8, the pipe connection joint 10 is attached to the hand of the multi-joint robot 9. The multi-joint robot 9 has, for example, six degrees of freedom. The multi-joint robot 9 can change the posture of the pipe connection joint 10 to match the posture of the flare joint 31, and can bring the pipe connection joint 10 closer to the flare joint 31. Note that a transport device other than the multi-joint robot 9 may be used as long as it can bring the pipe connection joint 10 closer to match the posture of the flare joint 31.

[0056] The valve 30 has a flare joint 31, and is connected to the pipe connection joint 10 via the flare joint 31. The valve 30 is fixed to, for example, a workpiece 33 to which a fluid is to be supplied and collected.

[0057] The fluid supplied to the flow path 31a of the flare joint 31 is supplied to the workpiece 33 to be supplied and recovered through the valve 30. If a device (not shown) connected to the piping connection joint 10 is equipped with a mechanism for recovering the fluid, the fluid may be recovered from the workpiece 33 to be supplied and recovered to the device through the valve 30 and the piping connection joint 10.

[0058] The articulated robot 9 moves the pipe connection joint 10 so that the pipe connection joint 10 is concentric with the flare joint 31. At this time, the position coordinates of the flare joint 31 are identified by a 3D (three-dimensions) vision sensor. As long as the position coordinates of the flare joint 31 can be identified, an identification method other than the 3D vision sensor, such as a combination of a distance sensor and a 2D (two-dimensions) camera, may be used.

[0059] Thereafter, the flare nut slide clamp 2 of the pipe connection joint 10 is moved linearly to close each of the split flare nuts 1. Furthermore, the seal bushing 3 is pressed against the flare joint 31, thereby connecting the pipe connection joint 10 and the flare joint 31.

[0060] After the pipe connection fitting 10 and the flare fitting 31 are connected, the pipe connection fitting 10 is disconnected from the articulated robot 9. After the pipe connection fitting 10 is disconnected, a hexagonal wrench is connected to the articulated robot 9. The pipe connection fitting 10 maintains its connection to the flare fitting 31 by the split flare nut 1. The articulated robot 9 uses the hexagonal wrench to open the valve opening and closing screw 32. This opens the flow path of the valve 30, and the flow path 3a of the pipe connection fitting 10 is connected to the workpiece 33 to be supplied and recovered by the flow path of the valve 30. The fluid is then supplied from the pipe connection fitting 10 side to the workpiece 33 to be supplied and recovered.

[0061] After the supply of the fluid to the workpiece 33 to be supplied and collected by the fluid is completed, the articulated robot 9 uses a hexagonal wrench to close the valve opening and closing screw 32. This closes the flow path of the valve 30, and the connection between the flow path 3a of the piping connection fitting 10 and the workpiece 33 to be supplied and collected by the fluid is released.

[0062] After the flow path of valve 30 is closed, articulated robot 9, instead of the hexagonal wrench, is connected to pipe connection fitting 10, which maintains its connection with flare fitting 31. Thereafter, flare nut slide clamp 2 is moved linearly, each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is opened, and the connection between pipe connection fitting 10 and flare fitting 31 is released.

[0063] As described above, the articulated robot 9 can be separated from the pipe connection joint 10. This allows the first pipe connection joint 10 to be attached to the first fluid supply / recovery target workpiece 33 and the fluid to be supplied thereto, while the second pipe connection joint 10 can be attached to the second fluid supply / recovery target workpiece 33 and the fluid can be supplied thereto. In this way, it is possible to supply fluid to a plurality of workpieces in parallel.

[0064] <Effects> Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0065] According to the pipe connection joint 10 of this embodiment, as shown in Figs. 4 to 7, the flare nut slide clamp 2 moves linearly along the direction in which the axis C extends. This causes each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 to deform between a first state (Figs. 4 and 5) in which it is separated from the flare joint 31 and a second state (Figs. 6 and 7) in which it is connected to the flare joint 31. Since the connection work can be performed by linear movement of the flare nut slide clamp 2 in this way, the time required for the connection work can be shortened compared to the case of a screw connection. This improves the efficiency of the connection work.

[0066] According to this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 7, the inner peripheral surface 1c of each of the split flare nuts 1 is a curved surface. Therefore, it is possible to use a single pipe connection joint 10 to accommodate flare joints 31 having different diameters.

[0067] 1, a female thread is formed on the inner peripheral surface 1c of each of the split flare nuts 1. Therefore, if a male thread is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the flare joint 31, when the inner peripheral surface 1c of each of the split flare nuts 1 comes into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the flare joint 31, the female thread and the male thread mesh with each other, thereby preventing the flare joint 31 from coming off the split flare nuts 1.

[0068] 7, in the second state, the flare nut slide clamp 2 comes into contact with the outer circumferential surface of each of the split flare nuts 1, thereby connecting the inner circumferential surface of each of the split flare nuts 1 to the flare joint 31. This allows the flare joint 31 to be gripped by the inner circumferential surface of each of the split flare nuts 1.

[0069] Embodiment 2 Next, a pipe connection joint according to a second embodiment will be described.

[0070] 10, pipe connection joint 20 of the present embodiment has flare nut slide clamp 12, which is a moving member, in contact with the inner periphery of each of the split flare nuts 1. This connects the outer periphery of each of the split flare nuts 1 to flange portion 31c of flare joint 31. In this respect, pipe connection joint 20 of the present embodiment differs from embodiment 1.

[0071] In this embodiment, the flare nut slide clamp 12 has a cylindrical portion 12a and an outer peripheral protruding portion 12b. The cylindrical portion 12a has, for example, a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 12a is arranged so as to be concentric with the base 6. The cylindrical portion 12a extends along the axis C. The rear end of the cylindrical portion 12a is inserted into the groove 6a of the base 6. The cylindrical portion 12a moves along the axis C relative to the base 6 by moving within the groove 6a. As a result, the flare nut slide clamp 12 moves linearly along the axis C.

[0072] The outer peripheral projection 12b is provided on the outer periphery of the tip of the cylindrical portion 12a. The outer peripheral projection 12b projects outward from the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 12a. The outer peripheral projection 12b has, for example, a circular ring shape. The outer peripheral end of the outer peripheral projection 12b contacts the inner peripheral surface of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 (the surface on the inner peripheral side centered on the axis C).

[0073] Each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is biased by a biasing member (not shown) in a direction in which the tip portion 1b approaches the axis C around the rotation shaft 1a (inner circumferential direction around the axis C). The biasing member is, for example, a spring.

[0074] The flare joint 31 has a pipe section 31b and a flange section 31c. The pipe section 31b has a tubular shape and has a flow path 31a penetrating therethrough. The flange section 31c is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the pipe section 31b. The flange section 31c protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the pipe section 31b toward the outer periphery. The flange section 31c is provided around the entire outer periphery of the flare joint 31. The flange section 31c has a cylindrical section 31ca spaced apart from the outer peripheral surface of the pipe section 31b in the outer periphery.

[0075] Other than the above, the configuration of this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, so the same elements are given the same reference numerals and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0076] 9, when the tip portion 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is in a closed state, each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is not connected to the cylindrical portion 31ca of the flange portion 31c and is in a separated state (first state). From this closed state, the flare nut slide clamp 12 moves linearly along the axis C relative to the base 6. At this time, the flare nut slide clamp 12 moves to the side opposite the tip portion 1b of the split flare nut 1.

[0077] During this movement, the outer peripheral surface of outer peripheral protrusion 12b of flare nut slide clamp 12 comes into contact with the inner peripheral surface of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1. This causes each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 to rotate about rotation shaft 1a as a fulcrum.

[0078] As the flare nut slide clamp 12 moves away from the tip portion 1b of the split flare nut 1, the tip portion 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 gradually moves away from the axis C. This causes the opening dimension of the opening OP to gradually increase, and the outer periphery of the tip portion 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 comes into contact with the cylindrical portion 31ca of the flange portion 31c (second state).

[0079] In this manner, the flare joint 31 is held by the split flare nuts 1. In a state in which the flare joint 31 is held by the split flare nuts 1, the piping portion 31b of the flare joint 31 and the seal bushing 3 are concentric.

[0080] Thereafter, the seal bushing slider 4 moves toward the flare joint 31 along the axis C. As a result, the seal bushing 3 attached to the tip of the seal bushing slider 4 is pressed against the piping section 31b of the flare joint 31. By pressing the seal bushing 3 against the piping section 31b, the gap between the seal bushing 3 and the piping section 31b is eliminated, and airtightness is ensured between the piping connection joint 20 and the piping section 31b. Thereafter, gas is supplied or collected through the piping connection joint 20 and the piping section 31b.

[0081] The above describes the method of connecting the pipe connection fitting 20 and the flare fitting 31, but the connection between the pipe connection fitting 20 and the flare fitting 31 can be disconnected by reversing the procedure for connecting the pipe connection fitting 20 to the flare fitting 31.

[0082] A male thread may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1, and a female thread may be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 31ca of the flare joint 31. The outer peripheral surface of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 may be configured as a curved surface.

[0083] In this embodiment, the same effects as those in the first embodiment can be obtained. 9 and 10, in the second state, flare nut slide clamp 12 contacts the inner circumferential surface of each of the split flare nuts 1, thereby connecting the outer circumferential portion of each of the split flare nuts 1 to flare joint 31. This allows flare joint 31 to be gripped by the outer circumferential portion of each of the split flare nuts 1.

[0084] Embodiment 3 Next, a pipe connection joint according to a third embodiment will be described.

[0085] <Structure of piping connection joint> Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a pipe connection joint according to embodiment 3 is connected to a flare joint. As shown in Fig. 11, in a pipe connection joint 20A of this embodiment, a base 6 is disposed on the inner periphery of the seal bush 3 and the seal bush slider 4. The base 6 is linearly movable along the axis C relative to the seal bush 3 and the seal bush slider 4.

[0086] Each of the multiple flare nuts 1 has a tip portion 1b located at one end in the longitudinal direction of the flare nut 1 and a root portion 1d located at the other end. Each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is attached to a base 6 on the root portion 1d side via a rotating shaft 1a. Each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is rotatable about the rotating shaft 1a relative to the base 6. The rotating shaft 1a extends in a direction perpendicular to the axis C, for example.

[0087] Each tip portion 1b of the multiple split flare nuts 1 has a connection surface 1c that is connected to the flare joint 31. The connection surface 1c is the surface of the tip portion 1b on the opposite side to the axis C (the surface on the outer circumferential side) and is configured as a curved surface. A tapered seal 8 is provided on the connection surface 1c. The tapered seal 8 provides a seal between the flare joint 31 and the split flare nut 1.

[0088] Each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is biased by a biasing member (not shown) in a direction in which the tip portion 1b is centered on the rotation shaft 1a and moves away from the axis C (in the outer circumferential direction centered on the axis C). The biasing member is, for example, a spring.

[0089] The flare nut slide clamp 12, which is a movable member, is inserted into the groove 6a of the base 6. The flare nut slide clamp 12 is disposed so as to be concentric with the base 6. The flare nut slide clamp 12 is movable linearly along the axis C relative to the base 6 by moving within the groove 6a.

[0090] Flare nut slide clamp 12 has a cylindrical shape and is located on the outer periphery of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1. As flare nut slide clamp 12 slides along axis C relative to base 6, flare nut slide clamp 12 comes into contact with the outer periphery of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1, and each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 moves around rotation shaft 1a in a direction in which tip portion 1b approaches axis C. This causes split flare nut 1 to open and close around rotation shaft 1a.

[0091] A seal 7 is attached to the tip of the seal bush 3. The seal 7 has, for example, a circular ring shape. The seal 7 is not limited to a circular ring shape as long as it covers the entire circumference of the opening of the seal bush 3, and may have a shape other than a circular ring shape.

[0092] 11, the outer periphery (connection surface 1c) of the tip portion 1b of each of the split flare nuts 1 is connected to the flare joint 31. In this state, the flare joint 31 and the pipe connection joint 20A are connected so that the axis C of the flare joint 31 and the axis C of the pipe connection joint 20A are concentric. Also, in this state, the taper seal 8 seals between the flare joint 31 and the split flare nut 1.

[0093] Other than the above, the configuration of this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, so the same elements are given the same reference numerals and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0094] <How to connect piping fittings> Next, a method of connecting the pipe connection joint 20A of this embodiment to a flare joint and a method of disconnecting the connection will be described with reference to FIG.

[0095] 11, flare nut slide clamp 12 is moved linearly along axis C relative to base 6 so as to protrude from base 6. As a result, flare nut slide clamp 12 comes into contact with the outer periphery of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1, and tip portion 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 moves in a direction approaching axis C, centered on rotation shaft 1a. As a result, the tip of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is brought into a closed state (approaching axis C).

[0096] In this state, each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is inserted into the flare joint 31. After that, the flare nut slide clamp 12 is moved linearly along the axis C relative to the base 6 so as to enter deeply into the groove 6a. As a result, the tip 1b of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 connected to the flare nut slide clamp 12 moves in a direction away from the axis C, centered on the rotation axis 1a. As a result, the tip of each of the multiple split flare nuts 1 is put into an open state (a state away from the axis C), and each of the multiple tip portions 1b is connected to the flare joint 31. As a result of each of the multiple tip portions 1b being connected to the flare joint 31, the axis C of the flare joint 31 and the axis C of the pipe connection joint 20A become concentric.

[0097] After the above-mentioned axial alignment, the seal bushing slider 4 is pushed out relative to the base 6 in a direction approaching the flare joint 31. This causes the seal 7 at the tip of the seal bushing 3 to be pressed against the flare joint 31. The connection between the seal 7 and the flare joint 31 ensures airtightness between the pipe connection joint 20A and the flare joint 31.

[0098] When disconnecting, the seal bushing slider 4 is pulled in a direction away from the flare fitting 31 relative to the base 6, and the connection between the seal 7 and the flare fitting 31 is released. Then, the flare nut slide clamp 12 is pushed out relative to the base 6. As a result, the tip portions 1b of the multiple split flare nuts 1 move in the closing direction (direction approaching the axis C), the axial alignment between the flare fitting 31 and the pipe connection fitting 20A is released, and the connection between the flare fitting 31 and the pipe connection fitting 20A is released.

[0099] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, not the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1 split flare nut, 1a rotating shaft, 1b tip portion, 1c connection surface, 1d base portion, 2,12 flare nut slide clamp, 2a sliding guide, 3 seal bush, 3a,31a flow path, 4 seal bush slider, 5 seal bush slider stopper, 5a,12a cylindrical portion, 5b annular portion, 6 base, 6a groove, 6c rear end surface, 6d tip surface, 7 seal, 8 taper seal, 30 valve, 9 articulated robot, 10,20,20A piping connection joint, 12b outer peripheral protrusion portion, 31 flare joint, 31b piping portion, 31c flange portion, 31ca cylindrical portion, 32 valve opening and closing screw, 33 workpiece to be supplied and collected with fluid, C axis, OP opening portion.

Claims

1. A pipe connection joint for connection to a pipe, a connection member having an opening, the opening dimension of which changes between a first state in which the connection member is separated from the piping and a second state in which the connection member is connected to the piping; a moving member that moves linearly relative to the connecting member to deform the connecting member between the first state and the second state, The connection member has a connection surface that is connected to the pipe in the second state, A pipe connection joint, wherein the connection surface is formed by a curved surface, has a threaded portion, and meshes with the threaded portion of the pipe.

2. The pipe connection joint according to claim 1 , wherein in the second state, the movable member comes into contact with an outer circumferential surface of the connection member, thereby connecting an inner circumferential surface of the connection member to the pipe.

3. The pipe connection joint according to claim 1 , wherein in the second state, the movable member comes into contact with an inner circumferential surface of the connecting member, thereby connecting an outer circumferential surface of the connecting member to the pipe.

4. Further equipped with a base, The connection member has a plurality of connection portions arranged along a circumference, Each of the plurality of connection portions is rotatably supported by the base, The pipe connection joint according to claim 1 , wherein the opening is surrounded by the plurality of connection portions.

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