Valve seat mechanism, valve mechanism, and breather valve

Abstract

The object is to provide a valve seat mechanism, a valve mechanism, and a breather valve that are capable of detecting the condition between the valve body and the valve seat. [Solution] The valve seat mechanism 1 of the present disclosure comprises a valve seat 2 that forms part of a flow path, and one or more detectors 61 that detect a predetermined variable of a detection target in a detection direction, and the valve seat 2 is formed with a valve seat end surface 2a with which the flow path is closed when the valve body comes into contact, and the valve seat 2 is formed with a detector installation space 42e in which the detector 61 is installed, and the detection direction is toward the valve body located across the valve seat end surface 2a when the detector 61 is installed in the detector installation space 42e.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a valve seat mechanism, a valve mechanism, and a breather valve for an on-off valve. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a breather valve has been known that has a positive side valve seat having an outlet for a fluid in a container, and a positive side valve that can open and close the outlet depending on the pressure in the container (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-21652 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a valve mechanism consisting of a valve body and a valve seat provided on a fluid flow path, due to the importance of managing the fluid flowing inside, it is required that the valve mechanism reliably closes the flow path, that the amount of fluid passing through the valve mechanism can be verified, that the presence or absence of unexpected fluid leakage from between the valve body and the valve seat can be verified, and that the amount of leakage can be verified in the unlikely event that fluid leaks from the valve mechanism. Furthermore, in order to prevent fluid leakage from the valve mechanism due to an unexpected event or to minimize leakage, it is also required to grasp the signs of unexpected fluid leakage from the valve mechanism. In the case of handling volatile and flammable fluids, or fluids that are harmful to the human body and the environment, this requirement has become even greater due to the recent increase in consideration of animals, plants, and the environment. However, conventional valve mechanisms have a problem in that the state of the valve mechanism, i.e., the state between the valve body and the valve seat, which is the basis for the above-mentioned verification and understanding, cannot be grasped at all. This problem has not been solved at all even in the valve mechanism used in a breather valve that handles volatile fluids, as in the conventional example shown as an example of a valve mechanism, and exists as a general problem with valve mechanisms.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the problems described above, and aims to provide a valve seat mechanism, a valve mechanism, and a breather valve that are capable of grasping the condition between the valve body and the valve seat. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The valve seat mechanism of the present disclosure comprises a valve seat constituting a part of a flow path, and one or more detectors which detect a predetermined variable of a detection target in a detection direction, the valve seat having a valve seat end face with which the flow path is closed when a valve body comes into contact, and a detector installation space in which the detector is installed is formed in the valve seat, and the detection direction is toward the valve body located beyond the valve seat end face when the detector is installed in the detector installation space.

[0007] The valve mechanism according to the present disclosure includes the valve seat mechanism according to the present disclosure and a valve body that closes a flow path.

[0008] The breather valve according to the present disclosure includes the valve seat mechanism according to the present disclosure. Effect of the Invention

[0009] The valve seat mechanism, valve mechanism, and breather valve according to the present disclosure are capable of detecting the condition between the valve body and the valve seat. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a breather valve according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a top view showing the introduction portion of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing a portion including the detection device of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a top view of the valve contact member of FIG. 1; [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a top view showing an introduction section according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment for carrying out the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that, in the following, the scope necessary for the explanation to achieve the object of the present disclosure is shown in a schematic manner, and the scope necessary for the explanation of the relevant part of the present disclosure will be mainly explained, and the parts that are omitted from the explanation will be referred to as publicly known techniques.

[0012] Embodiment 1 In the description of the valve seat mechanism of the present disclosure, in the first embodiment, a valve seat mechanism used in a breather valve is used. However, the valve seat mechanism of the present disclosure is not limited to that used in a breather valve, and can be used appropriately in a general valve mechanism. The same applies to the valve seat mechanism in the second embodiment described later. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a breather valve 5 according to the first embodiment. The breather valve 5 is connected to an opening of the tank 4 via an upstream flange 4b. In FIG. 1, a part of the breather valve 5 is shown in cross section at a plane including the axis of the flow path.

[0013] The tank 4 stores a fluid such as a flammable gas or liquid. Furthermore, the tank 4 also contains a fluid that is the volatilized version of the stored fluid. Examples of the flammable gas or liquid include fossil fuels and volatile gases. The shape of the tank 4 is a sphere, a cylinder, a rectangular solid, a cube, or the like.

[0014] In the first embodiment, the tank 4 is shaped such that the horizontal cross-sectional area of ​​the tank 4 decreases toward the upper end. An attachment portion 4a is provided at the upper end of the tank 4. A through hole that communicates with the inside of the tank 4 is formed in the attachment portion 4a. This allows the fluid inside the tank 4 to be efficiently discharged through the attachment portion 4a.

[0015] The base of the breather valve 5 is attached to the attachment portion 4a via the upstream flange 4b. In the present embodiment 1, the tank 4 is the upstream side, and the breather valve 5 is installed on the downstream side of the tank 4.

[0016] The breather valve 5 can discharge the fluid inside the tank 4 to the atmosphere according to the internal pressure of the tank 4, and can also allow the atmosphere, which is the suction fluid, to flow into the tank 4. In other words, the breather valve 5 can adjust the pressure inside the tank 4.

[0017] In the first embodiment, the tank 4 and the breather valve 5 are installed outdoors and exposed to the atmosphere.

[0018] The breather valve 5 includes a main section 10, an intake section 20, and an exhaust section 40. The main section 10 is a T-shaped piping member. The ends of the T-shaped piping member of the main section 10 are an inlet side opening end 10a that opens vertically downward, an outlet side opening end 10b that opens vertically upward, and an intake side opening end 10c that opens horizontally.

[0019] The main section 10 is installed with the inlet opening end 10a on the lower side and the outlet opening end 10b on the upper side. A flow path leading from the inlet opening end 10a to the outlet opening end 10b is defined as a main flow path 110. The main section 10 is installed so that the axis of the main flow path 110 is along the vertical direction. The main flow path 110 extends toward the discharge section 40. The main flow path 110 extending to the discharge section 40 will be described later.

[0020] A flow path that branches off from the main flow path 110 and reaches the intake side opening end 10c is referred to as a branch flow path 111. The axis of the branch flow path 111 is aligned in the horizontal direction. The intake section 20 is connected to the intake side opening end 10c of the main section 10.

[0021] The intake section 20 has an intake section main body 21 and an intake valve mechanism 22 provided in the intake section main body 21. The intake section main body 21 is a tubular member having two open ends.

[0022] One end of the intake unit body 21 is a connection side opening end 21a that opens in the horizontal direction. The other end of the intake unit body 21 is formed with an intake port 21b that opens vertically downward. A flow path connecting the connection side opening end 21a and the intake port 21b is defined as an intake flow path 120. Here, the other end of the intake unit body 21 that constitutes the periphery of the intake port 21b is defined as an intake valve seat 21x.

[0023] The intake valve mechanism 22 has an intake valve 23 which is an opening / closing valve, an intake valve shaft 24 fixed to the intake valve 23, and an intake valve guide 25 installed in the intake unit main body 21. When the intake valve 23 comes into contact with an intake valve seat 21x which constitutes the periphery of the intake port 21b, the intake port 21b is closed. When a gap is generated between the intake valve 23 and the intake valve seat 21x, the intake port 21b is opened. That is, the intake valve 23 can open and close the intake flow path 120.

[0024] The intake valve guide 25 supports the intake valve shaft 24 so that it can move in the vertical direction. This allows the intake valve 23 to move between an intake close position and an intake open position as the intake valve shaft 24 moves in the vertical direction. The intake valve 23 is an open valve. The intake valve 23 can move toward the intake close position by dropping along the intake valve guide 25 due to the weight of the intake valve 23 and the intake valve shaft 24.

[0025] When the intake valve 23 is in the intake closing position, the intake valve 23 closes the intake port 21b. That is, since the bottom surface of the intake valve 23 is in contact with the intake valve seat 21x, the intake flow path 120 is closed and communication between the intake flow path 120 and the outside of the breather valve 5 is cut off.

[0026] When the intake valve 23 moves upward against its own weight from the intake closed position to the intake open position, a gap is created between the intake valve 23 and the intake valve seat 21x. In other words, the intake passage 120 is opened and communicates with the atmosphere outside the breather valve 5.

[0027] The intake side opening end 10c and the connection side opening end 21a are connected, and the intake section 20 is connected to the intake side opening end 10c of the main section 10. As a result, the intake flow path 120 inside the intake section main body 21 communicates with the branch flow path 111 inside the main section 10. That is, the intake flow path 120 extends horizontally from the branch flow path 111.

[0028] The discharge part 40 is connected to the outlet opening end 10b of the main part 10. The discharge part 40 has a discharge part main body 41, a vent cover 47, a discharge valve mechanism 50 installed on the vent cover 47, a detection device 60, and a valve contact member 70.

[0029] The exhaust body 41 is composed of a tubular inlet 42 and an air exhaust part 43 provided to surround one open end of the inlet 42. The exhaust body 41 is installed in a position in which the pipe of the inlet 42 is aligned vertically.

[0030] Fig. 2 is a top view showing the introduction portion 42 in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is an enlarged view showing a portion including the detection device 60 in Fig. 1. Fig. 2 shows the top surface of the introduction portion 42, so the valve contact member 70 is not shown. The explanation will continue based on Figs. 1 to 3.

[0031] The downward opening end of introduction section 42 is referred to as discharge section inlet opening end 42a. The vertically upward opening end of introduction section 42 is referred to as valve side end 42b. The opening of valve side end 42b is referred to as valve side opening 42c, and the end face of valve side end 42b is referred to as main body end face 42d. Discharge section inlet opening end 42a is connected to outlet opening end 10b of main section 10.

[0032] One detector installation space 42e is formed in the introduction portion 42. The detector installation space 42e is a space that opens to the main body end surface 42d, passes through the wall of the introduction portion 42 from the opening in the main body end surface 42d, and opens to the outer periphery side of the introduction portion 42. A part of the detection device 60 is installed in the detector installation space 42e.

[0033] The detection device 60 has a detector 61 and a wiring 62 that transmits a signal from the detector 61 to a control device (not shown). The detector 61 can detect a predetermined variable of the detection target. At this time, the detector 61 can detect a predetermined variable of the detection target in a direction in which the detector 61 is directed, and this direction is defined as the detection direction of the detector 61. That is, the detection direction of the detector 61 is a direction in which the detector 61 can detect a predetermined variable of the detection target. In the detector installation space 42e, one detector 61 and a part of the wiring 62 extending from the detector 61 are installed. The detector 61 is installed so that the detection direction of the detector 61 faces from the detector installation space 42e toward the outside of the main body end surface 42d. That is, the detector 61 can measure a predetermined variable of the detection target outside the main body end surface 42d on the valve side end 42b side of the introduction part 42.

[0034] The wiring 62 is installed to extend outward from the outer periphery of the introduction part 42 through the detector installation space 42e. The wiring 62 is connected to a control device (not shown), and the control device can acquire a predetermined variable detected by the detector 61.

[0035] A valve contact member 70 is provided at the valve side end portion 42b. Fig. 4 is a top view showing the valve contact member 70 of Fig. 1. The description will continue with reference to Figs. 1 to 4.

[0036] The valve contact member 70 is an annular member. In the valve contact member 70, a cross section along a line along the radial direction of the annular shape is L-shaped. That is, the valve contact member 70 has a shape in which an annular flat plate material is bent perpendicularly to the plane around the entire circumference of its inner periphery. The valve contact member 70 is formed into a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end face 42d.

[0037] The valve contact member 70 is installed in the introduction part 42 so as to cover the main body end face 42d of the introduction part 42 and a part of the inner circumferential surface of the introduction part 42 continuing from the main body end face 42d. Here, the surface of the valve contact member 70 facing the discharge valve 53 is referred to as a valve facing surface 70a. The discharge valve 53 will be described later.

[0038] The opening of the detector installation space 42e formed in the main body end surface 42d is closed by installing the valve contact member 70 in the introduction portion 42. That is, the detector 61 is installed in the detector installation space 42e covered by the valve contact member 70. The detection direction of the detector 61 is toward the exhaust valve 53 located beyond the valve facing surface 70a.

[0039] The valve contact member 70 is installed by being screwed to the introduction portion 42. The outer periphery of the valve contact member 70 is provided with attachment points for screwing. However, the valve contact member 70 can be installed to the introduction portion 42 by any known method other than screwing. The valve contact member 70 is preferably made of a material that does not significantly reduce the detection capability of the detector 61. For example, the valve contact member 70 is made of stainless steel.

[0040] It is preferable to devise a shape of the valve contact member 70 so as not to significantly reduce the detection ability of the detector 61. For example, a significant reduction in the detection ability of the detector 61 can be prevented by making the valve contact member 70 thinner. As shown in FIG. 1-4, the inner circumferential surface of the introduction portion 42 where the detector installation space 42e is formed is formed to protrude further inward, and the wall thickness of the introduction portion 42 where the detector installation space 42e is formed is thicker than the wall thickness of the other portions. The valve contact member 70 is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end surface 42d. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the wall thickness of the introduction portion 42 may be uniform, that is, the inner circumferential surface of the introduction portion 42 does not have a part protruding inward, and the inner circumferential surface of the introduction portion 42 viewed from the axial direction may be circular. Even in this case, the valve contact member 70 is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end surface 42d.

[0041] Here, the valve side end 42b of the introduction portion 42 is the valve seat main body 3. That is, the valve seat main body 3 is cylindrical and forms part of a flow path that is closed by the valve body, such that the valve side end 42b of the introduction portion 42 forms part of the discharge flow path 140. Moreover, the main body end surface 42d of the introduction portion 42 is an end of the flow path formed in the valve seat main body 3, and is the main body end surface of the valve seat main body 3 that faces the valve body.

[0042] Moreover, the valve seat main body 3, which is the valve side end 42b of the introduction part 42, and the valve contact member 70 are defined as the valve seat 2. Therefore, the valve seat 2 constitutes a part of the flow path. Moreover, the valve seat 2 and the detection device 60 are defined as the valve seat mechanism 1. In this case, the valve facing surface 70a of the valve contact member 70 is defined as the valve seat end surface 2a.

[0043] That is, the valve seat end face 2a faces the lower surface of the discharge valve 53, which is a valve body, and is in direct contact with the discharge valve 53 when the discharge valve 53 closes the discharge flow path 140. Furthermore, a gap is formed between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat end face 2a, and when the discharge flow path 140 is opened, the fluid in the tank 4 is discharged through the gap between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat end face 2a. Moreover, the detection direction is toward the discharge valve 53, which is a valve body, located across the valve seat end face 2a, when the detector 61 is installed in the detector installation space 42e.

[0044] Returning to Fig. 1, the explanation will be continued. The atmosphere exhaust part 43 is formed so as to surround the valve side end part 42b of the introduction part 42. An opening is formed on the upper end side of the atmosphere exhaust part 43. The upper end side of the atmosphere exhaust part 43 is defined as the valve mechanism side opening end part 43b. Below the valve mechanism side opening end part 43b of the atmosphere exhaust part 43, i.e., in the body part of the atmosphere exhaust part 43, a plurality of discharge ports 43a that open in the horizontal direction are formed.

[0045] The vent cover 47 is connected to the valve mechanism side opening end 43b. The vent cover 47 closes the opening of the valve mechanism side opening end 43b. A known configuration can be used for connecting the vent cover 47 to the valve mechanism side opening end 43b. The vent cover 47 is provided with a discharge valve mechanism 50.

[0046] The exhaust valve mechanism 50 has a exhaust valve 53 which is a valve body capable of closing the valve side opening 42c, a exhaust valve shaft 54 ​​fixed to the exhaust valve 53, and a exhaust valve guide 55 installed on the vent cover 47.

[0047] With the vent cover 47 connected to the valve mechanism side opening end 43b, the exhaust valve guide 55 extends vertically downward from the vent cover 47. The exhaust valve guide 55 supports the exhaust valve shaft 54 ​​so as to be movable along the vertical direction.

[0048] The discharge valve 53 is movable between a discharge closed position and a discharge open position by the discharge valve shaft 54 ​​moving along the vertical direction. The discharge valve 53 is an open valve.

[0049] The discharge valve 53 can move toward the discharge closed position by dropping along the discharge valve guide 55 due to the weight of the discharge valve 53 and the discharge valve shaft 54 ​​.

[0050] When the exhaust valve 53 is in the exhaust closing position, the exhaust valve 53 closes the valve side opening 42c. Specifically, when the exhaust valve 53 is in the exhaust closing position, the surface of the exhaust valve 53 contacts the valve facing surface 70a of the valve contact member 70. At this time, the surface of the exhaust valve 53 and the valve facing surface 70a are in continuous contact around the valve side opening 42c.

[0051] In the first embodiment, the surface of the discharge valve 53 that contacts the valve facing surface 70a is the underside of the discharge valve 53. That is, the detector 61 is installed such that its detection direction faces the underside of the discharge valve 53, and can detect a predetermined displacement up to the discharge valve 53.

[0052] When the discharge valve 53 moves against its own weight from the discharge closed position to the discharge open position, a gap is generated between the discharge valve 53 and the valve side opening 42c.

[0053] The discharge section 40 has a discharge flow path 140 that runs from the discharge section inlet opening end 42a through the valve side opening 42c to the multiple discharge ports 43a. When the discharge valve 53 is in the discharge closed position, the discharge flow path 140 that is in communication with the main flow path 110 extending from the inside of the main section 10 is in a disconnected state.

[0054] When the exhaust valve 53 moves from the exhaust closed position toward the exhaust open position and a gap is created between the exhaust valve 53 and the valve side opening 42c, the exhaust flow path 140, which is connected to the main flow path 110 extending from the inside of the main section 10, is not blocked and remains connected.

[0055] Next, a description will be given of the operation of the breather valve 5. The breather valve 5 operates based on the internal pressure of the tank 4.

[0056] First, when the internal pressure of the tank 4 is normal, the intake valve 23 and the exhaust valve 53 are both closed. In this state, intake from the intake valve 23 and exhaust from the exhaust valve 53 are not performed, and the internal pressure in the tank 4 is maintained.

[0057] Next, a case where the internal pressure of the tank 4 becomes low, which is lower than the normal pressure, will be described. In the intake section 20, since the internal pressure of the intake section 20 is low, the intake valve 23 is pushed by the atmosphere. Therefore, the intake valve 23 moves from the intake closed position toward the intake open position.

[0058] Specifically, the intake valve 23 is pushed by the atmosphere and rises against its own weight. The total weight of the intake valve 23 and the intake valve shaft 24 is set to a weight that rises when pushed by the atmosphere when the internal pressure of the intake section 20 falls below the normal pressure.

[0059] As the intake valve 23 rises against its own weight, the intake passage 120 is opened and the air enters the inside of the intake part 20 through the intake port 21b.

[0060] On the other hand, since the internal pressure of the discharge part 40 is low, the discharge valve 53 moves downward by its own weight and remains in the discharge closed position. That is, the valve-side opening 42c is maintained in a state where it is closed by the discharge valve 53.

[0061] As a result, air flows in through the intake port 21b, and the internal pressure of the tank 4 increases, causing the intake valve 23 to move to the intake closing position due to its own weight, closing the intake port 21b. In this way, the internal pressure of the tank 4 becomes the pressure set by the weight of the intake valve 23.

[0062] Next, a case where the internal pressure of the tank 4 is higher than the normal pressure will be described. At this time, since the internal pressure of the intake section 20 is high, the intake valve 23 remains in the intake closing position due to the internal pressure of the intake section 20 and its own weight. Therefore, the intake port 21b is closed.

[0063] In the discharge section 40, the internal pressure of the tank 4, the main section 10, and the intake section 20 is high, so the discharge valve 53 moves from the discharge closed position to the discharge open position. Specifically, the discharge valve 53 is pushed by the fluid inside the tank 4 and rises against its own weight. The total weight of the discharge valve 53 and the discharge valve shaft 54 ​​is set to a weight that rises against its own weight when the internal pressure of the main section 10 becomes equal to or higher than the normal pressure.

[0064] Therefore, the fluid in the tank 4 is discharged from the tank 4 through the main flow path 110, the valve side opening 42c, and the discharge flow path 140. That is, when the internal pressure of the discharge part 40 becomes higher than the normal pressure, the discharge valve mechanism 50 does not block the discharge flow path 140 that communicates with the main flow path 110, but keeps it open. This allows the fluid discharged from inside the tank 4 to be discharged downstream of the discharge valve mechanism 50 through the discharge flow path 140.

[0065] When the fluid in the tank 4 is discharged from the discharge portion 40, the discharge valve 53 eventually moves to the discharge closing position by its own weight based on the internal pressure of the tank 4, and closes the valve side opening 42c.

[0066] As a result, the internal pressure of the tank 4 becomes a pressure based on the weight of the discharge valve 53. In this manner, the breather valve 5 can maintain the pressure inside the tank 4 at a constant pressure.

[0067] As described above, the fluid inside the tank 4 includes the fluid inside the tank 4 and the fluid that has volatilized and gasified. Therefore, the discharged fluid also includes the fluid inside the tank 4 and the fluid that has volatilized and gasified.

[0068] Next, the detection device 60 will be described. The detector 61 can constantly detect a predetermined change up to the discharge valve 53. The predetermined change of the detection target detected by the detector 61 can be recognized as the state of the discharge valve 53 or the state between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat 2. For example, the detector 61 is a distance sensor that can measure the distance to the underside of the discharge valve 53. In this case, the change up to the discharge valve 53 that can be detected by the detector 61 is the current distance to the discharge valve 53, i.e., the current position of the discharge valve 53.

[0069] From the distance to the underside of the discharge valve 53 detected by the detector 61, it can be inferred whether the discharge valve 53 is in the valve closed position or has moved from the valve closed position toward the valve open position. In other words, it can be known whether the valve-side opening 42c is closed by the discharge valve 53. This also makes it possible to calculate the opening degree of the discharge valve 53, and further the presence and flow rate of fluid flowing between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat 2.

[0070] Also, for example, by measuring the time when the discharge valve 53 is not in the valve closed position, it is possible to infer that there is a defect such as an abnormality in the discharge valve mechanism 50 or an obstruction between the valve seat and the discharge valve 53. Also, although the behavior of the change in the measured distance data does not necessarily indicate an abnormality in the discharge valve mechanism 50, it is possible to find a sign of an abnormality in the discharge valve mechanism 50. In this way, the detection device 60 can know the state between the discharge valve 53, which is a valve body, and the valve seat 2. Also, the behavior of the change in the measured distance data can be used to verify whether an unexpected situation has occurred, whether there is an unexpected leakage of fluid due to the unexpected situation, and the amount of leakage. Furthermore, when a specific behavior is observed in the behavior of the change in the distance data measured by the detector 61, it can be determined that there is a sign of an unexpected leakage of fluid from between the discharge valve 53 and the valve seat 2.

[0071] The detector 61 is not limited to a distance sensor. For example, a vibration sensor facing the underside of the discharge valve 53 may be used as the detector 61. The vibration sensor can detect vibrations up to the discharge valve 53 beyond the valve contact member 70. Even if a vibration sensor is used as the detector 61, the state between the discharge valve 53 (valve body) and the valve seat 2 can be known by the detection device 60, as in the case of a distance sensor.

[0072] Also, for example, an acoustic sensor facing the underside of the discharge valve 53 may be used as the detector 61. The acoustic sensor may detect the sound up to the discharge valve 53. The acoustic sensor can detect the operating sound of the discharge valve 53, the collision sound between the valve seat 2 and the discharge valve 53, and the sound of the fluid between the valve seat 2 and the discharge valve 53. Even if an acoustic sensor is used for the detector 61, the state between the discharge valve 53, which is the valve body, and the valve seat 2 can be known by the detection device 60, as with a distance sensor. Note that the strength of the directivity in the detection direction of the detector 61 differs depending on the sensor used as the detector 61. Therefore, when installing the detector 61, the detection direction can be appropriately set in consideration of the strength of the directivity of the sensor used, and the installation posture of the detector 61 can be appropriately set.

[0073] According to the valve seat mechanism 1 of the first embodiment, the valve seat 2 constituting a part of the flow path and one or more detectors 61 for detecting a predetermined variable of a detection target in a detection direction are provided. The valve seat 2 is formed with a valve seat end surface 2a with which the flow path is closed when the exhaust valve 53, which is a valve body, comes into contact, and the valve seat 2 is formed with a detector installation space 42e in which the detector 61 is installed. The detection direction is toward the valve body located beyond the valve seat end surface 2a when the detector 61 is installed in the detector installation space 42e. This makes it possible to grasp the state between the valve body and the valve seat. In addition, by accumulating data indicating the state between the valve body and the valve seat acquired by the detector 61 and comparing and examining the past data with the current data, it is possible to verify the amount of fluid passing between the valve body and the valve seat, verify the presence or absence of unexpected fluid leakage from between the valve body and the valve seat, verify the amount of leakage, and grasp the signs of fluid leakage from between the valve body and the valve seat. In addition, it is possible to know the degree of deterioration of the valve body or the valve seat. Therefore, failure of the valve body or the valve seat, and signs of such failure, can be detected at an early stage.

[0074] According to the valve seat mechanism 1 of the first embodiment, the detector installation space 42e is not exposed to the flow path and the valve seat end surface 2a. This makes it possible to achieve stronger sealing of the flow path. Therefore, even when an explosion-proof structure is required, the valve seat mechanism 1 of the present disclosure can be applied.

[0075] According to the valve seat mechanism 1 in the first embodiment, the valve seat 2 has a cylindrical valve seat body 3 constituting a part of the flow path, and a valve contact member 70 that is installed on the valve seat body 3 and constitutes the valve seat end surface 2a. The valve seat body 3 is also formed with a body end surface 42d that faces the discharge valve 53, which is an end of the flow path and is a valve body that closes the flow path. The detector installation space 42e is also formed in the valve seat body 3, and the detector installation space 42e is exposed to the body end surface 42d. The valve contact member 70 covers the body end surface 42d. As a result, if the data acquired by the detection device 60 shows a behavior different from normal, some abnormality in the valve body or the valve seat 2 is considered. For example, if wear of the valve seat end surface 2a of the valve seat 2 is considered, the treatment is completed by replacing only the valve contact member 70. Therefore, the maintenance work can be reduced. Furthermore, as a maintenance item for the valve seat mechanism 1, it is sufficient to mainly secure the valve contact member 70 as a replacement part. This will make it easier to arrange and store maintenance items.

[0076] According to the breather valve 5 in the first embodiment, the valve seat mechanism 1 of the present disclosure is provided. This allows the state between the valve body and the valve seat to be grasped. In addition, by accumulating data indicating the state between the valve body and the valve seat acquired by the detector 61 and comparing and examining the past data with the current data, it is possible to verify the amount of fluid passing between the valve body and the valve seat, verify the presence or absence of unexpected fluid leakage from between the valve body and the valve seat, verify the amount of leakage, and grasp the signs of fluid leakage from between the valve body and the valve seat. In addition, it is possible to know the degree of deterioration of the valve body or the valve seat. Therefore, it is possible to find the failure of the valve body or the valve seat and the signs of failure at an early stage.

[0077] In the breather valve 5 in the first embodiment, the detection device 60 is provided in the exhaust section 40. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the detection device 60 may be provided in the intake section 20. That is, the detection device 60 may be provided on the intake valve seat 20x corresponding to the intake valve 23 to monitor the behavior of the intake valve 23.

[0078] Embodiment 2 In the explanation of the valve seat mechanism of the present disclosure, in the second embodiment, a valve seat mechanism used in a breather valve is used. However, the valve seat mechanism of the present disclosure is not limited to that used in a breather valve, and can be used as appropriate in a general valve mechanism. In the second embodiment, the configuration in which three detectors 61 are installed is different from that of the detection device 60 of the first embodiment. Fig. 5 is a top view showing the introduction portion 42 according to the second embodiment.

[0079] The detection device 60 has three detectors 61 and wiring 62 that transmits signals from each detector 61 to a control device (not shown). Three detector installation spaces 42e are formed in the introduction section 42. In each detector installation space 42e, one detector 61 and wiring 62 connected to the detector 61 are installed.

[0080] The valve contact member 70 is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end surface 42d. The openings of the multiple detector installation spaces 42e formed in the main body end surface 42d are closed by installing the valve contact member 70 in the introduction portion 42. That is, the multiple detectors 61 are installed in the detector installation space 42e covered with the valve contact member 70. Each of the multiple detectors 61 is installed along the valve facing surface 70a. As shown in FIG. 5, the inner circumferential surface of the introduction portion 42 where each detector installation space 42e is formed is formed to protrude further inward, and the thickness of the introduction portion 42 where the detector installation space 42e is formed is thicker than the thickness of the other portions. Also, the valve contact member 70 is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end surface 42d. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the wall thickness of the introduction portion 42 may be uniform, i.e., the inner peripheral surface of the introduction portion 42 may not have any inwardly protruding portion, and the inner peripheral surface of the introduction portion 42 may be circular when viewed in the axial direction. Even in this case, the valve contact member 70 is formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the main body end surface 42d.

[0081] Each of the multiple detectors 61 may be the same type of sensor, for example, all three detectors 61 may be distance sensors. Other configurations of the second embodiment are similar to those disclosed in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0082] In the second embodiment, three detectors 61 are installed in the introduction section 42. However, this is not limited to this. The number of detectors 61 arranged in the introduction section 42 may be two or more, i.e., multiple. Also, one or multiple detectors 61 may be installed in one detector installation space 42e. The detectors 61 of the valve seat mechanism 1 in the second embodiment are installed multiple times along the valve seat end surface 2a. This allows even slight tilts and wobble of the discharge valve 53 to be examined in more detail. Therefore, the behavior of the valve body can be observed in more detail.

[0083] The multiple detectors 61 of the valve seat mechanism 1 in the second embodiment are sensors of a single type. This allows easy comparison of signals obtained from the detectors 61. This allows even slight tilts or deviations of the exhaust valve 53 to be easily examined in more detail.

[0084] In the second embodiment, all three detectors 61 are sensors of the same type. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the types of sensors of the three detectors 61 may be one or more distance sensors and one or more vibration sensors. In other words, multiple types of sensors may be used for the multiple detectors 61.

[0085] In the valve seat mechanism 1 in the second embodiment, at least two detectors 61 are different types of sensors, which allows the behavior of the discharge valve 53 to be examined from multiple angles.

[0086] Moreover, the valve seat mechanism 1 in the first and second embodiments is provided in the breather valve 5. However, this is not limited to this. The valve seat mechanism 1 in the first and second embodiments can be provided in any valve mechanism that closes the flow path by closing the valve seat end face 2a of the valve seat 2 with a valve member and opens the flow path by opening a gap between the valve member and the valve seat 2. Examples of such valve mechanisms include a rotary valve such as a ball valve, a diaphragm valve, and the like.

[0087] According to the valve mechanism in the first embodiment, the valve mechanism includes the valve seat mechanism 1 of the present disclosure and a discharge valve 53 which is a valve body that closes the flow path. This allows the state between the valve body and the valve seat to be grasped. In addition, by accumulating data indicating the state between the valve body and the valve seat acquired by the detector 61 and comparing the past data with the current data, it is possible to verify the amount of fluid passing between the valve body and the valve seat, verify the presence or absence of unexpected fluid leakage from between the valve body and the valve seat, verify the amount of leakage, and grasp the signs of fluid leakage from between the valve body and the valve seat. In addition, it is possible to know the degree of deterioration of the valve body or the valve seat. Therefore, it is possible to find the failure of the valve body or the valve seat and the signs of failure at an early stage.

[0088] Moreover, the valve seat mechanism 1 in the first and second embodiments uses the valve contact member 70. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the valve contact member 70 may not be used. In that case, the detector installation space 42e is formed without opening at the main body end face 42d of the valve side end portion 42b, and the main body end face 42d becomes the end face that contacts the exhaust valve 53. That is, in this case, the valve seat end face 2a becomes the main body end face 32d. With this configuration, the airtightness between the exhaust valve 53 and the valve seat end face 2a, which is the main body end face 42d, is ensured, and the flow path can be closed. Furthermore, since the valve contact member 70 is not used, the number of parts is small, and the design and manufacturing costs can be reduced. Also, since the number of parts is small, the possibility of occurrence of failure or malfunction is reduced.

[0089] Various aspects of the present disclosure are summarized below as appendices.

[0090] (Appendix 1) A valve seat that constitutes a part of a flow path; one or more detectors for detecting a predetermined variable of a detection target in a detection direction; Equipped with The valve seat has a valve seat end surface with which the flow passage is closed when the valve body comes into contact with the valve seat, A detector installation space in which the detector is installed is formed in the valve seat, The detection direction is toward the valve body located beyond the valve seat end surface when the detector is installed in the detector installation space. Valve seat mechanism. (Appendix 2) The detector installation space is not exposed to the flow path and the valve seat end surface. 2. The valve seat arrangement of claim 1. (Appendix 3) The detector is provided in plurality along the valve seat end surface. 3. The valve seat arrangement of claim 1 or 2. (Appendix 4) a plurality of said detectors are sensors of a single type; 4. The valve seat mechanism of claim 1. (Appendix 5) At least two of the detectors are different types of sensors. 4. The valve seat arrangement of claim 3. (Appendix 6) The valve seat is A valve seat body that constitutes a part of the flow path; a valve contact member disposed on the valve seat body and constituting the valve seat end surface; having The valve seat body has a body end surface that is an end of the flow passage and faces the valve body that closes the flow passage, The detector installation space is formed in the valve seat body, The detector installation space is exposed to an end surface of the main body, The valve contact member covers the body end surface. 6. The valve seat mechanism of any one of claims 1 to 5. (Appendix 7) A valve seat mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 6; A valve body that closes the flow path; Equipped with Valve mechanism. (Appendix 8) A valve seat mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Breather valve. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 1 valve seat mechanism, 2 valve seat, 2a valve seat end face, 3 valve seat body, 4 tank, 4a mounting portion, 4b upstream flange, 5 breather valve, 10 main portion, 10a inlet opening end, 10b outlet opening end, 10c intake side opening end, 20 intake portion, 21 intake body, 21a connection side opening end, 21b intake port, 21x intake valve seat, 22 intake valve mechanism, 23 intake valve (valve body), 24 intake valve shaft, 25 intake valve guide, 40 exhaust portion, 41 exhaust body, 42 introduction portion, 42a exhaust portion inlet opening end, 42b valve side end, 42c valve side opening, 42d body end face, 42e detector installation space, 43 atmospheric exhaust portion, 43a discharge port, 43b Open end on the valve mechanism side, 47 vent cover, 50 exhaust valve mechanism, 53 exhaust valve (valve body), 54 exhaust valve shaft, 55 exhaust valve guide, 60 detection device, 61 detector, 62 wiring, 70 valve contact member, 110 main flow path, 111 branch flow path, 120 intake flow path, 140 exhaust flow path.

Claims

1. A valve seat that constitutes a part of a flow path; one or more detectors for detecting a predetermined variable of a detection target in a detection direction; Equipped with The valve seat has a valve seat end surface with which the flow passage is closed when the valve body comes into contact with the valve seat, A detector installation space in which the detector is installed is formed in the valve seat, the detection direction is toward the valve body located beyond the valve seat end face when the detector is installed in the detector installation space, The detector installation space is not exposed to the flow path and the valve seat end surface. Valve seat mechanism.

2. The detector is provided in plurality along the valve seat end surface.

2. A valve seat arrangement as claimed in claim 1.

3. a plurality of said detectors are sensors of a single type; 2. A valve seat arrangement as claimed in claim 1.

4. At least two of the detectors are different types of sensors.

3. A valve seat arrangement as claimed in claim 2.

5. The valve seat A valve seat body that constitutes a part of the flow path; a valve contact member disposed on the valve seat body and constituting the valve seat end surface; having The valve seat body has a body end surface that is an end of the flow passage and faces the valve body that closes the flow passage, The detector installation space is formed in the valve seat body, The detector installation space is exposed to an end surface of the main body, The valve contact member covers the body end surface.

2. A valve seat arrangement as claimed in claim 1.

6. Each of the detectors is any one of a distance sensor, a vibration sensor, and an acoustic sensor. A valve seat mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A valve seat mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5; A valve body that closes the flow path; Equipped with Valve mechanism.

8. A valve seat mechanism comprising: Breather valve.

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