Ventilation device

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a ventilation device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a ventilation device for a container. The ventilation device is provided in a refrigeration device that cools the internal space of the container body. The ventilation device has a ventilation port, an opening / closing member that opens and closes the ventilation port, and a motor that drives the opening / closing member. When the opening / closing member opens the ventilation port, the internal space of the container body communicates with the external space through the ventilation port. Thereby, the internal space of the container body is ventilated. When the opening / closing member closes the ventilation port, the container body, the internal space, and the external space are blocked. Thus, in the ventilation device of Patent Document 1, the ventilation port can be opened and closed automatically instead of manually.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a structure that automatically opens and closes a ventilation port like the ventilation device of Patent Document 1, a gap may be formed between the lid and the base portion when the lid closes the ventilation port. In this case, since the inside and outside of the container body communicate with each other through the gap, the airtightness of the container body decreases.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to suppress a decrease in the airtightness of a container body in a ventilation device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first aspect is directed to a ventilation device. The ventilation device includes a base portion (47) having a ventilation opening (VO) for communicating the interior and exterior of the container body (2), a lid (60) for opening and closing the ventilation opening (VO), a drive mechanism (70) for displacing the lid (60) between an open position and a closed position, a sealing member (65) formed at a position surrounding the ventilation opening (VO) between the base portion (47) and the lid (60), and pressing portions (77, 121, 122) for pressing the lid (60) toward the base portion (47).

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

[0008] The second aspect is the first aspect, wherein the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) are provided on the drive mechanism (70).

[0009] In the second aspect, by providing the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) on the drive mechanism (70), the ventilation device can be miniaturized.

[0010] The third aspect is the second aspect, wherein the drive mechanism (70) has a drive source (71) and a drive shaft (72) driven by the drive source (71), and the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) have a spring (77) provided along the drive shaft (72).

[0011] In the third aspect, the spring (77) can press the lid (60) in the closed position toward the base portion (47). Since the spring (77) is provided along the drive shaft (72), the ventilation device can be miniaturized.

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

[0013] In the fourth aspect, when the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) press the lid (60) against the base portion (47), the convex portion (55) and the sealing member (65) are in line contact. Thereby, the sealing performance of the portion of the sealing member (65) where the convex portion (55) is located can be improved.

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

[0015] In the fifth aspect, since the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) press the central portion of the lid (60), it is possible to suppress the deviation of the pressing force acting on the lid (60). Even in this case, the pressing force on the outer edge side of the lid (60) becomes small. However, the convex portion (55) is configured such that the height protruding toward the sealing member (65) increases from the central portion of the lid (60) toward the outer edge. For this reason, the distance between the lid (60) and the convex portion (55) becomes smaller from the central portion of the lid (60) toward the outer edge. As a result, the compression force acting on the sealing member (65) can be made uniform, and the sealing performance of the sealing member (65) can be improved.

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

[0017] In the sixth aspect, by the drive mechanism (70) moving the lid (60) in the first direction, the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) is adjusted. Thereby, the compression force acting on the sealing member (65) can be adjusted.

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

[0019] In the seventh aspect, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60), thereby adjusting the overlapping area between the opening (CO) of the lid (60) and the ventilation opening (VO). Thereby, the ventilation volume can be adjusted. Here, the drive mechanism (70) can also adjust the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). For this reason, the lid (60) can be rotated with the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) being relatively large. In this case, the lid (60) can be rotated while reducing the frictional force generated as the lid (60) rotates.

[0020] In the eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the drive mechanism (70) includes a drive source (71) and a drive shaft (72) that is rotationally driven by the drive source (71). The drive mechanism (70) is configured to cause the lid (60) to perform a rotational movement that rotates the lid (60) as the drive shaft (72) rotates, and a reciprocating movement that reciprocates the lid (60) in the first direction as the drive shaft (72) rotates.

[0021] In the eighth aspect, the drive mechanism (70) rotates and reciprocates the lid (60). When the lid (60) performs a rotational movement, the overlapping area between the opening (CO) of the lid (60) and the ventilation opening (VO) is adjusted. When the lid (60) performs a reciprocating movement, the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) is adjusted.

[0022] Aspect 9 is, in Aspect 8, wherein the drive mechanism (70) includes a rod (73) connected to one of the drive shaft (72) and the lid (60), and a cam mechanism (80) connected to the other of the drive shaft (72) and the lid (60) and having a contact surface (82) with which the rod (73) contacts. The contact surface (82) includes a first transmission portion (C1) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to cause the lid (60) to perform the rotational movement, and a second transmission portion (C2) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to cause the reciprocating movement.

[0023] In Aspect 9, as the rod (73) comes into contact with the first transmission portion (C1) of the cam mechanism (80) as the drive shaft (72) rotates, the lid (60) performs a rotational movement. As the rod (73) comes into contact with the second transmission portion (C2) of the cam mechanism (80) as the drive shaft (72) rotates, the lid (60) performs a reciprocating movement.

[0024] Aspect 10 is, in Aspect 9, wherein a low-friction portion (73b) is provided that reduces the frictional force between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80).

[0025] In Aspect 10, the low-friction portion (73b) reduces the frictional force between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80). Thereby, wear of the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) can be suppressed.

[0026] Aspect 11 is, in Aspect 9 or Aspect 10, wherein three or more rods (73) are connected to the drive shaft (72).

[0027] In Aspect 11, since the force acting between the rod (73) and the cam mechanism (80) can be dispersed, the rotational movement and the reciprocating movement of the lid (60) can be stabilized.

[0028] Aspect 12 is such that, in any one of Aspects 7 to 11, the drive mechanism (70) performs a first operation of moving the lid (60) at the first position that compresses the seal member (65) to a second position farther from the base portion (47) than the first position, and after the first operation, a second operation of rotating the lid (60) to a predetermined rotation angle while maintaining the lid (60) at the second position.

[0029] In Aspect 12, by the first operation, when the lid (60) at the first position moves to the second position, the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) increases. Thereby, the compressive force acting on the seal member (65) becomes smaller. After this first operation, by performing the second operation, the lid (60) can be rotated while reducing the frictional force generated as the lid (60) rotates.

[0030] Aspect 13 is such that, in Aspect 12, the drive mechanism (70) is configured to perform a third operation of moving the lid (60) to the first position while maintaining the lid (60) at the predetermined rotation angle after the second operation.

[0031] In Aspect 13, after the lid (60) reaches the predetermined rotation angle in the second operation, the third operation is performed. In the third operation, when the lid (60) moves to the first position, the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) becomes narrower. Thereby, since the lid (60) becomes more stable compared to the case where the lid (60) is at the second position, it is possible to suppress the lid (60) from wobbling.

[0032] Aspect 14 is such that the predetermined rotation angle includes a first rotation angle at which the entire ventilation opening (VO) is blocked by the lid (60).

[0033] In the 14th aspect, when the lid (60) reaches the first angular position by the second operation, the entire ventilation opening (VO) is blocked by the lid (60), and the ventilation opening (VO) is in a fully closed state. In the subsequent third operation, as the lid (60) moves to the first position, the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) becomes narrower. As a result, the lid (60) is more stable compared to when the lid (60) is in the second position, so it is possible to suppress the lid (60) from wobbling. In addition, since the lid (60) is in the first position, the sealing member (65) is compressed, so the sealing performance of the sealing member (65) is improved. Thereby, it is possible to suppress air from leaking between the outside and the inside of the container body (2) when the lid (60) fully closes the ventilation opening (VO).

[0034] The 15th aspect includes, in any one of the 7th to 14th aspects, a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the rotation angle of the lid (60) becomes a set target value.

[0035] In the 15th aspect, by the control unit (100) adjusting the drive mechanism (70), the rotation angle of the lid (60) changes. Thereby, the overlapping area between the opening (CO) of the lid (60) and the ventilation opening (VO) can be adjusted, and furthermore, the ventilation volume can be arbitrarily adjusted.

[0036] The 16th aspect includes, in any one of the 1st to 15th aspects, a refrigerant leak sensor (110) that detects refrigerant leakage, and a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the lid (60) assumes a closed position when the refrigerant leak sensor (110) detects refrigerant leakage.

[0037] In the 16th aspect, when the refrigerant leak sensor (110) detects refrigerant leakage, the drive mechanism (70) controlled by the control unit (100) causes the lid (60) to assume a closed position. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the refrigerant from leaking through the ventilation opening (VO). Here, since the pressing portions (77, 121, 122) press the lid (60) toward the base portion (47), it is also possible to suppress refrigerant leakage through the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47).

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0038]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

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Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0039] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical idea of the present disclosure. Since each drawing is for conceptually explaining the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for easy understanding.

[0040] (1) Overall Configuration of the Container The ventilation device (40) is applied to the container (1). The overall configuration of the container (1) of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. In the following description, terms related to "front", "rear", "left", "right", "upper", and "lower" are based on the directions indicated by the arrows in FIG. 1.

[0041] The container (1) is used for maritime transportation. The container (1) is a refrigerated container that cools the air inside it. The container (1) has a container body (2) and a refrigeration device for the container (10). The container body (2) stores objects such as food and plants. The refrigeration device for the container (10) cools the interior space (3) of the container body (2), which is the storage space inside the container. As shown in Figure 2, a front opening (4) is formed on the front surface of the container body (2). The refrigeration device for the container (10) is attached to the container body (2) so as to close the front opening (4) of the container body (2).

[0042] (2) Refrigeration device for the container The refrigeration device for the container (10) has a casing (11). The casing (11) forms a lid for the front opening (4) of the container body (2). The casing (11) has a casing body (12) and a partition plate (13). The casing body (12) separates the external space (5) outside the container body (2), which is the space outside the storage, from the internal space (3). The partition plate (13) is located on the back side (rear side) of the casing (11).

[0043] As equipment arranged outside the storage, the refrigeration device for the container (10) has a compressor (25), an external heat exchanger (26), and an external fan (27). As equipment arranged inside the storage, the refrigeration device for the container (10) has an internal heat exchanger (29) and an internal fan (30).

[0044] (2-1) Casing body As shown in Fig. 2, the casing body (12) has a flat plate portion (12a) and a recessed portion (12b). The flat plate portion (12a) is formed at the upper part of the casing body (12) so as to be substantially flush with the front opening (4) of the casing (11). As shown in Fig. 1, an inspection window (22) and a ventilation device (40) are provided on the flat plate portion (12a). The inspection window (22) is arranged at the rightward portion of the flat plate portion (12a). The ventilation device (40) is arranged at the leftward portion of the flat plate portion (12a). The inspection window (22) is a transparent window for checking the inside of the casing body (12). The ventilation device (40) ventilates the internal space (3).

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

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

[0047] (2-2) Partition Plate and Air Passage As shown in Fig. 2, the partition plate (13) is a plate-shaped member located on the rear side of the recess (12b). The partition plate (13) extends vertically so as to be at a predetermined interval from the rear surface of the recess (12b). An internal passage (19) through which the air inside the cabinet flows is formed between the casing body (12) and the partition plate (13). An inlet (20) is formed between the upper end of the partition plate (13) and the upper wall (2a) of the container body (2). The inlet (20) communicates the space inside the cabinet (3) with the inlet end of the internal passage (19). An outlet (21) is formed between the lower end of the partition plate (13) and the lower wall (2b) of the container body (2). The outlet (21) communicates the space inside the cabinet (3) with the outlet end of the internal passage (19).

[0048] (2-3) Component parts of the space outside the cabinet In the external storage space (14), a compressor (25), an external heat exchanger (26), and an external fan (27) are provided. The compressor (25) is installed on the bottom plate (12c) of the casing (11). The compressor (25) is arranged near the lower part of the external storage space (14). The compressor (25) is arranged on the right side of the external storage space (14).

[0049] The external fan (27) is located near the upper part in the external storage space (14). The external fan (27) is constituted by a propeller fan. As shown in Fig. 2, an external passage (28) through which the external air flows is formed on the back side of the external fan (27).

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

[0051] (2-4) Component parts of the space inside the cabinet In the storage space (15) inside the cabinet, an indoor heat exchanger (29) and an indoor fan (30) are provided. The indoor heat exchanger (29) is supported by the casing (11) so as to span the casing main body (12) and the partition plate (13). The indoor heat exchanger (29) is a fin-and-tube type heat exchanger.

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

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

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

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

[0056] The outdoor heat exchanger (26) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing inside it and the outdoor air. The gas end of the outdoor heat exchanger (26) communicates with the discharge pipe (32). The liquid end of the outdoor heat exchanger (26) is connected to the liquid end of the indoor heat exchanger (29) via a liquid pipe (35). The outdoor heat exchanger (26) functions as a radiator (condenser) where the refrigerant dissipates heat to the air.

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

[0058] The indoor heat exchanger (29) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing inside it and the indoor air. The gas end of the indoor heat exchanger (29) communicates with the intake pipe (33). The indoor heat exchanger (29) functions as an evaporator where the refrigerant absorbs heat from the air.

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

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

[0061] (2-6) Operating Operations The refrigeration device (10) for the container performs a cooling operation and a defrost operation.

[0062] During the cooling operation, a refrigeration cycle is performed in which the refrigerant compressed by the compressor (25) condenses in the outdoor heat exchanger (26), is decompressed by the expansion valve (31), and evaporates in the indoor heat exchanger (29). The air flowing out from the indoor space (3) into the internal passage (19) is cooled by the indoor heat exchanger (29) that functions as an evaporator. The cooled air is sent to the indoor space (3).

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

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

[0065] (3-1) Overall Configuration The ventilation device (40) shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 is a ventilation device for a container that ventilates the internal space (3) of the container body (2). The ventilation device (40) of the present embodiment has a function of supplying air, which is outdoor air, i.e., external air in the container, to the internal space (3), and a function of exhausting the internal air to the external space (5).

[0066] As shown in FIG. 2, the ventilation device (40) is provided at a ventilation attachment port (6) formed on the front surface of the casing body (12). The ventilation attachment port (6) penetrates the casing body (12) from front to back. The ventilation attachment port (6) is formed across the external casing (16), the heat insulation layer (17), and the internal casing (18).

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

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

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

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

[0071] A housing frame (44) is provided at the central part of the side plate (41b). The housing frame (44) is tubular and protrudes forward from the side plate (41b). The drive mechanism (70) is arranged inside the housing frame (44).

[0072] (3-3) Air Supply Duct and Exhaust Duct The air supply duct (45) constitutes a part of the air supply passage (P1). The exhaust duct (46) constitutes a part of the exhaust passage (P2). The air supply duct (45) and the exhaust duct (46) are housed inside the ventilation case (41). The air supply duct (45) and the exhaust duct (46) are horizontally long tubular. The passage cross-section of the air supply duct (45) and the exhaust duct (46) narrows toward the front side. The air supply duct (45) is attached to the side plate (41b) so as to connect to the case-side air supply opening (42). The exhaust duct (46) is attached to the side plate (41b) so as to connect to the case-side exhaust opening (43).

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

[0074] Inside the base-side recess (47b), a flat circular columnar space is formed in the front-rear direction. An air supply port (48) and an exhaust port (49) are formed at the bottom, which is the rear part of the base-side recess (47b). The air supply port (48) and the exhaust port (49) are formed around the axis of the axis (X). The air supply port (48) is formed at the upper part of the base-side recess (47b), and the exhaust port (49) is formed at the lower part of the base-side recess (47b). The air supply port (48) and the exhaust port (49) are substantially fan-shaped. The air supply port (48) and the exhaust port (49) extend in the circumferential direction. The air supply port (48) and the exhaust port (49) are located at positions facing each other with the axis (X) in between.

[0075] The air supply port (48) is connected to the air supply duct (45). The air supply port (48) forms part of the air supply passage (P1). The exhaust port (49) is connected to the exhaust duct (46). The exhaust port (49) forms part of the exhaust passage (P2). The air supply port (48) and the exhaust port (49) form a ventilation port (VO) for communicating the inside storage space (3) of the container body (2) with the outside storage space (5).

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

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

[0078] The edge forming plate (52) has a disc portion (52a), and a first extension portion (52b) and a second extension portion (52c) that extend radially outward from the disc portion (52a). The disc portion (52a) is formed at the center of the edge forming plate (52). When viewed in the axial direction, the disc portion (52a) is circular, and the first extension portion (52b) and the second extension portion (52c) are substantially fan-shaped or arc-shaped. The first extension portion (52b) and the second extension portion (52c) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The first extension portion (52b) and the second extension portion (52c) are located at positions facing each other with the axis (X) interposed therebetween.

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

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

[0081] (3 - 6) Cover The lid (60) is disposed inside the base-side recess (47b) so as to face the outside-space (5). The lid (60) opens and closes the air supply port (48) and the exhaust port (49) which are ventilation openings. The lid (60) is in the shape of a disc centered on the axis (X). The lid (60) performs a rotational motion and a reciprocating motion by being driven by the drive mechanism (70). In the rotational motion, the lid (60) rotates about the axis (X). In the reciprocating motion, the lid (60) moves axially along the axis (X). The lid (60) is made of, for example, an aluminum material.

[0082] On the lid (60), a lid-side air supply opening (61) and a lid-side exhaust opening (62) which are openings are formed. The lid-side air supply opening (61) and the lid-side exhaust opening (62) are substantially fan-shaped. The lid-side air supply opening (61) and the lid-side exhaust opening (62) extend in the circumferential direction. The lid-side air supply opening (61) and the lid-side exhaust opening (62) are located at positions facing each other with the axis (X) interposed therebetween. The lid-side air supply opening (61) is substantially equal in shape and size to the air supply port (48) and the air supply communication port (53). The lid-side exhaust opening (62) is substantially equal in shape and size to the exhaust port (49) and the exhaust communication port (54).

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

[0084] (3-7) Packing The packing (65) is disposed inside the base-side recess (47b). The packing (65) is formed at a position surrounding the air supply port (48) and the exhaust port (49), which are ventilation ports, between the base portion (47) and the lid (60). Strictly speaking, the packing (65) is disposed between the lid (60) and the edge forming plate (52), and is formed at a position surrounding the air supply communication port (53) and the exhaust communication port (54). The packing (65) seals the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). The sealing member (65) suppresses the communication between the outside space (5) and the inside space (3) of the storage through the gap.

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

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

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

[0088] (3-8) Driving mechanism The configuration of the driving mechanism (70) will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 12.

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

[0090] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the above-described housing frame (44) is formed with a cylindrical first housing space (44a) and a prismatic second housing space (44b). The first housing space (44a) houses a cam mechanism (80) and a drive shaft (72). The second housing space (44b) houses a motor (71). The second housing space (44b) is a sealed space that is tightly partitioned from the first housing space (44a). This can prevent water droplets and the like from leaking around the motor (71).

[0091] (3-8-2) Motor and Transmission Mechanism The motor (71) is composed of a stepping motor. The output shaft (71a) of the motor (71) extends rearward parallel to the axis (X). The motor (71) rotationally drives its output shaft (71a) reversibly.

[0092] A transmission mechanism (76) is provided on the rear side of the motor (71) and the drive shaft (72). The transmission mechanism (76) of this embodiment has a pinion (76a), a first gear (76b), and a second gear (76c). The pinion (76a) is fixed to the output shaft (71a). The first gear (76b) meshes with the pinion (76a) and the second gear (76c). The second gear (76c) is connected to the rear end portion of the drive shaft (72). When the output shaft (71a) of the motor (71) rotates, this rotational force is transmitted to the drive shaft (72) via the pinion (76a), the first gear (76b), and the second gear (76c). Thereby, the drive shaft (72) is rotationally driven by the motor (71). The drive shaft (72) is configured to be rotatable in a first rotational direction (R1) and a second rotational direction (R2) shown in FIG. 10.

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

[0094] The drive shaft (72) is rotatably fixed to the fixed plate (78) via a fixture (79). The fixed plate (78) rotatably supports the drive shaft (72). The fixture (79) prohibits axial movement of the drive shaft (72).

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

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

[0097] The number of rods (73) may be one or two, but is preferably three or more. By setting the number of rods (73) to three or more, the force acting between the rods (73) and the cam mechanism (80) can be dispersed. Thereby, the rotational movement and the reciprocating movement of the lid (60) can be stabilized. If the number of rods (73) is four or more, the load torque of the motor (71) becomes excessively large. Therefore, it is more preferable that the number of rods (73) is three.

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

[0099] The bearing (73b) is preferably made of a material with higher wear resistance than the rod body (73a). The rod body (73a) is made of a metal material such as SUS, for example. The bearing (73b) is made of a resin material such as polyacetal, for example.

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

[0101] The cam mechanism (80) has a cylindrical peripheral wall (81) coaxial with the axis (X). At the end portion of the peripheral wall (81) on the rod (73) side, a contact surface (82) with which the bearing (73b), which is the contact portion of the rod (73), contacts is formed. The contact surface (82) includes a first transmission portion (C1) and a second transmission portion (C2). The first transmission portion (C1) is a contact surface for transmitting the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to cause the lid (60) to perform a rotational motion. The second transmission portion (C2) is a contact surface for transmitting the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to cause the lid (60) to perform a reciprocating motion.

[0102] The structure related to the contact surface (82) will be described in more detail. At the end of the peripheral wall (81) on the side of the rod (73), three protruding plates (83) are formed. The number of the protruding plates (83) is the same as the number of the rods (73). The number of the protruding plates (83) may be one, two, or four or more, and may also be different from the number of the rods (73). The protruding plate (83) is a rectangular plate having the same thickness as the peripheral wall (81).

[0103] The portion between each adjacent protruding plate (83) in the circumferential direction of the contact surface (82) is recessed in a V shape toward the lid (60). In this recessed portion, a first inclined surface (84) and a second inclined surface (85) are formed with the top (P) therebetween. The top (P) is the portion of the contact surface (82) of the peripheral wall (81) having the shortest axial distance from the lid (60). The top (P) is at the circumferential intermediate position between the adjacent protruding plates (83). The first inclined surface (84) extends along the first rotation direction (R1) from the top (P). The first inclined surface (84) is inclined so as to approach the rod (73) as it advances in the first rotation direction (R1). The second inclined surface (85) extends along the second rotation direction from the top (P). The second inclined surface (85) is inclined so as to approach the rod (73) as it advances in the second rotation direction. The inclination angles of the first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) with respect to the plane perpendicular to the axis (X) of the drive shaft (72) are equal to each other. The circumferential lengths of the first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) are equal to each other. The first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) are symmetrically shaped with the top (P) therebetween.

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

[0105] On the side surface of the protruding plate (83) closer to the first inclined surface (84), a first end surface (83a) is formed. The first end surface (83a) is the surface of the protruding plate (83) facing the second rotation direction (R2) side. On the side surface of the protruding plate (83) closer to the second inclined surface (85), a second end surface (83b) is formed. The second end surface (83b) is the surface of the protruding plate (83) facing the first rotation direction (R1) side. The first end surface (83a) and the second end surface (83b) constitute a second transmission portion (C2) with which the rod (73) comes into contact. By having surfaces along the axis (X), the first end surface (83a) and the second end surface (83b) transmit the rotational force acting from the rod (73) directly to the lid (60).

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

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

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

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

[0110] The drive shaft (72) is disposed inside the spring (77). In other words, the spring (77) is spiral and turns so as to surround the drive shaft (72).

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

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

[0113] (3-9) Details of the Edge Forming Plate As shown in FIGS. 6, 12, and 13, a convex portion (55) protruding toward the packing (65) is provided between the packing (65) and the base portion (47). The convex portion (55) has a tapered shape that becomes thinner as it extends toward the packing (65). The convex portion (55) improves the sealing performance of the packing (65) by compressing the packing (65). The convex portion (55) includes an air supply side convex portion (56) corresponding to the air supply communication port (53), an exhaust side convex portion (57) corresponding to the exhaust communication port (54), and a central convex portion (58) corresponding to the second insertion hole (52d).

[0114] The air supply side convex portion (56) is in a closed loop shape surrounding the air supply communication port (53). The air supply side convex portion (56) is in line contact with a portion of the packing (65) corresponding to the outer edge of the air supply communication port (53) when the lid (60) is in the fully closed position. Thereby, the sealing performance between the packing (65) and the outer edge of the air supply communication port (53) is improved.

[0115] The exhaust side convex portion (57) is in a closed loop shape surrounding the exhaust communication port (54). The exhaust side convex portion (57) is in line contact with a portion of the packing (65) corresponding to the outer edge of the exhaust communication port (54) when the lid (60) is in the fully closed position. Thereby, the sealing performance between the packing (65) and the outer edge of the exhaust communication port (54) is improved.

[0116] The structures of the air supply side convex portion (56) and the exhaust side convex portion (57) are basically the same, but they may have different structures. The air supply side convex portion (56) and the exhaust side convex portion (57) each have an outer peripheral portion (55a), an inner peripheral portion (55b), a first side edge portion (55c), and a second side edge portion (55d). The outer peripheral portion (55a) is located near the outer peripheral edge of the edge forming plate (52). The outer peripheral portion (55a) is arc-shaped along the outer peripheral edge of the edge forming plate (52) when viewed in the axial direction. The inner peripheral portion (55b) is located near the inner peripheral edge of the edge forming plate (52), that is, near the second insertion hole (52d). The inner peripheral portion (55b) is arc-shaped along the inner peripheral edge of the edge forming plate (52).

[0117] The first side edge portion (55c) is continuous with each one end in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral portion (55a) and the inner peripheral portion (55b). Here, each one end corresponds to the end portion in the first rotation direction (R1). The first side edge portion (55c) extends substantially linearly so as to span one end of the outer peripheral portion (55a) and one end of the inner peripheral portion (55b).

[0118] The second side edge portion (55d) is continuous with each other end in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral portion (55a) and the inner peripheral portion (55b). Here, each other end corresponds to the end portion in the second rotation direction (R2). The second side edge portion (55d) extends substantially in an arc shape so as to span the other end of the outer peripheral portion (55a) and the other end of the inner peripheral portion (55b). The second side edge portion (55d) is arc-shaped and bulges toward the first rotation direction (R1).

[0119] The central convex portion (58) is in a closed loop shape surrounding the second insertion hole (52d). The central convex portion (58) is in line contact with the portion corresponding to the outer edge of the second insertion hole (52d) in the packing (65). Thereby, the sealing performance between the packing (65) and the outer edge of the second insertion hole (52d) is improved.

[0120] The protruding height of the convex portion (55) increases from the central portion of the lid (60) toward the outer edge of the lid (60). In other words, the protruding height of the convex portion (55) increases toward the radially outer side of the edge forming plate (52). Here, when viewed in the axial direction, the spring (77) presses the central portion of the lid (60) toward the base portion (47). For this reason, the pressing force acting on the lid (60) decreases from the central portion of the lid (60) toward the outer edge. As a result, the compression force of the packing (65) due to the spring (77) decreases from the central portion of the lid (60) toward the outer edge. On the other hand, by increasing the protruding height of the convex portion (55) toward the radially outer side of the edge forming plate (52), the compression force of the packing (65) can be made uniform over the entire radial direction. As a result, the sealing performance by the packing (65) can be improved.

[0121] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, assuming that the protruding height h1 of the outer peripheral portion (55a), the protruding height h2 of the inner peripheral portion (55b), and the protruding height of the central convex portion (58) is h3, h1 is larger than h2, and h2 is larger than h3. The protruding height h1 of the outer peripheral portion (55a) is equal throughout. The protruding height h2 of the inner peripheral portion (9) is equal throughout. The protruding height of the central convex portion (58) is equal throughout.

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

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

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

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

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

[0127] As shown in FIG. 15(A), the first lid-side convex portion (63) and the first pin (95) come into contact with each other when the lid (60) is at the first rotation angle (θ1) at which the ventilation opening (VO) is fully closed. Specifically, the side edge on the second rotation direction (R2) side of the first lid-side convex portion (63) comes into contact with the first pin (95). Thereby, the further rotation of the lid (60) at the first rotation angle (θ1) in the second rotation direction (R2) is restricted by the first lid-side convex portion (63) and the first pin (95). The first lid-side convex portion (63) and the first pin (95) constitute a first limiting mechanism for restricting the rotation of the lid (60) that fully closes the ventilation opening (VO) in the direction of closing the ventilation opening (VO).

[0128] As shown in FIG. 15(C), the second lid-side convex portion (64) and the second pin (96) come into contact with each other when the lid (60) is at the second rotation angle (θ2) at which the opening (CO) is fully opened. Specifically, the side edge on the first rotation direction (R1) side of the second lid-side convex portion (64) comes into contact with the second pin (96). Thereby, the rotation of the lid (60) at the second rotation angle (θ2) in the first rotation direction (R1) is restricted by the second lid-side convex portion (64) and the second pin (96). The second lid-side convex portion (64) and the second pin (96) constitute a second restriction mechanism that restricts the lid (60) that fully opens the ventilation port (VO) from rotating in the direction of opening the ventilation port (VO).

[0129] With the above configuration, the lid (60) of the present embodiment is configured such that the rotation angle is adjustable in the range from the first rotation angle (θ1 = 0°) to the second rotation angle (θ2 = 90°).

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

[0131] The control unit (100) controls the refrigeration device (10) for a container. The control unit (100) includes a microprocessor, an electric circuit, and an electronic circuit. The microprocessor includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, a communication interface, analog input / output, and a contact input / output interface. Various programs for the CPU to execute and data used by the programs are stored in the memory.

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

[0133] When the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) detects refrigerant leakage, the control unit (100) controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the lid (60) is in the closed position.

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

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

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

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

[0138] When the rod (73) further moves in the first rotation direction (R1), the rod (73) reaches the first flat surface (86). As the rod (73) further rotates in the first rotation direction (R1), as shown in FIG. 14(B), the rod (73) comes into contact with the first end surface (83a) of the protrusion plate (83). In this state, the cam mechanism (80) is located at the most axially one end side. As a result, the axial distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) becomes the longest, and the packing (65) moves away from the base portion (47). The position shown in FIG. 14(B) corresponds to a second position where the lid (60) is farther from the base portion (47) than the first position. When the lid (60) is in the second position, the compression of the packing (65) by the lid (60) is released.

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

[0140] In the first reciprocating motion, the first rotation angle range (θd1) in which the rod (73) contacts the first inclined surface (84) is set to 45°. In other words, to move the rod (73) at the position of FIG. 14(A) to the position of FIG. 14(B), it is necessary to rotate the drive shaft (72) in the first rotation direction (R1) by the first rotation angle range (θd1).

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

[0142] When the rod (73) further moves in the second rotation direction (R2), the rod (73) reaches the second flat surface (87). As the rod (73) further rotates in the second rotation direction (R2), as shown in FIG. 14(C), the rod (73) contacts the second end surface (83b) of the protruding plate (83). In this state, the cam mechanism (80) is located at the most axially one end side. As a result, the axial distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) becomes the longest, and the packing (65) moves away from the base portion (47). The position shown in FIG. 14(C) corresponds to a second position where the lid (60) is farther from the base portion (47) than the first position. When the lid (60) is in the second position, the compression of the packing (65) by the lid (60) is released.

[0143] From the state of FIG. 14(C), when the motor (71) rotates the drive shaft (72) and further the rod (73) in the first rotation direction (R1), the rod (73) contacts the second inclined surface (85). As the rod (73) moves in the first rotation direction (R1) and approaches the top (P), the cam mechanism (80) moves to the other axially end side. As shown in FIG. 14(A), when the rod (73) reaches the top (P), the packing (65) is compressed by the lid.

[0144] In the second reciprocating motion, the second rotation angle range (θd2) in which the rod (73) contacts the second inclined surface (85) is set to 45°. In other words, to move the rod (73) at the position of FIG. 14(A) to the position of FIG. 14(C), it is necessary to rotate the drive shaft (72) in the second rotation direction (R2) by the second rotation angle range (θd2).

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

[0146] (5-2-1) First rotational motion When the rod (73) is in the position shown in Fig. 14(B), as the drive shaft (72) rotates in the first rotation direction (R1), the rotational force of the rod (73) acts on the cam mechanism (80), and the lid (60) performs a first rotational movement. Specifically, as the rod (73) moves further in the first rotation direction (R1) while contacting the first end face (83a) of the protrusion plate (83), the cam mechanism (80), and further the lid (60) rotate in the first rotation direction (R1). Then, the lid (60) rotates in the order of Figs. 15(A), 15(B), and 15(C). Along with this, the area where the lid-side opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO) overlap in the axial direction increases. As a result, the substantial opening area of the ventilation opening (VO) increases, and the ventilation volume of the ventilation device (40) becomes larger.

[0147] The position of the lid (60) in Fig. 15(A) is a closed position where the ventilation opening (VO) is fully closed. In this state, the entire lid-side opening (CO) is blocked by the base portion (47). Specifically, the entire lid-side air supply opening (61) axially overlaps with the base portion (47), and the entire lid-side exhaust opening (62) axially overlaps with the base portion (47).

[0148] The position of the lid (60) in Fig. 15(C) is an open position (strictly speaking, a fully open position) where the lid (60) fully opens the ventilation opening (VO). In this state, the entire lid-side opening (CO) and the entire ventilation opening (VO) axially overlap. Specifically, the entire lid-side air supply opening (61) and the entire air supply opening (48) axially overlap, and the entire lid-side exhaust opening (62) and the entire exhaust opening (49) axially overlap.

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

[0150] Specifically, the lid-side air supply opening (61) and the packing-side air supply opening (66) are surrounded by the air supply-side convex portion (56) when viewed from the axial direction. Thereby, the air supply-side convex portion (56) compresses the outer edge of the packing-side air supply opening (66) of the packing (65), so leakage of air and water at this portion can be suppressed.

[0151] The lid-side exhaust opening (62) and the packing-side exhaust opening (67) are surrounded by the exhaust-side convex portion (55) when viewed from the axial direction. Thereby, the exhaust-side convex portion (55) compresses the outer edge of the packing-side exhaust opening (67) of the packing (65), so that leakage of air and water at this portion can be suppressed.

[0152] The position of the lid (60) in Fig. 15(B) is an intermediate position between the closed position and the open position. The lid (60) at the intermediate position opens the ventilation opening (VO) with a predetermined opening area (opening degree).

[0153] (5-2-2) Second rotational movement When the rod (73) is in the position shown in Fig. 14(C), as the drive shaft (72) rotates in the second rotation direction (R1), the rotational force of the rod (73) acts on the cam mechanism (80), and the lid (60) performs a second rotational movement. Specifically, as the rod (73) moves further in the second rotation direction (R2) while contacting the second end face (83b) of the protrusion plate (83), the cam mechanism (80), and further the lid (60) rotate in the second rotation direction (R2). Then, the lid (60) rotates in the order of Fig. 15(C), Fig. 15(B), and Fig. 15(A). Along with this, the area where the lid-side opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO) overlap in the axial direction becomes smaller. As a result, the substantial opening area of the ventilation opening (VO) decreases, and the ventilation volume of the ventilation device (40) becomes smaller.

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

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

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

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

[0158] In the first operation of step S14, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) at the first position shown in FIG. 14(A) to the second position shown in FIG. 14(B). Specifically, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the first rotation direction (R1) by the first rotation angle range (θd1). Thereby, the compressive force of the packing (65) by the lid (60) is released or reduced.

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

[0160] At this time, since the lid (60) is in the second position shown in FIG. 14(B), the frictional force (frictional resistance) acting on the packing (65) can be reduced as compared with the case where the lid (60) is in the first position. As a result, the power for rotating the lid (60) can be reduced. In addition, wear at the contact portion between the packing (65) and the base portion (47) can be suppressed.

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

[0162] In this way, after the lid (60) reaches the target rotation angle (θt), the drive mechanism (70) returns the lid (60) to the first position. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the lid (60) from wobbling due to vibration or the like. In addition, since the sealing performance of the packing (65) can be improved, it is possible to suppress air or water from leaking from the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47).

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

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

[0165] In the first operation of step S18, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) in the first position shown in FIG. 14(A) to the second position shown in FIG. 14(C). Specifically, the drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) in the second rotation direction (R2) by the second rotation angle range (θd2). As a result, the compressive force of the packing (65) by the lid (60) is released or reduced.

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

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

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

[0169] In this way, after the lid (60) reaches the target rotation angle (θt), the drive mechanism (70) returns the lid (60) to the first position. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the lid (60) from wobbling due to vibration or the like. In addition, since the sealing performance of the packing (65) can be improved, it is possible to suppress air or water from leaking from the gap between the lid (60) and the base portion (47).

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

[0171] (5-3-2) Initialization Control During the initial operation of the refrigeration device (10) for the container, etc., the current rotation angle (θc) may not be set yet in step S17. For this reason, when the current rotation angle (θc) is not set in step S11, the control unit (100) performs the initialization control shown in FIG. 17. Note that the control unit (100) may execute the initialization control according to a manual input by the user. The control unit (100) may execute the initialization control according to a command to turn on or off the power supply of the refrigeration device (10) for the container. For example, it may be executed by a manual operation of the user.

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

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

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

[0175] As described above, in the subsequent control operation of the ventilation device (40), while setting the lid (60) to the first rotation angle (θ1) and the first position, the current rotation angle (θc) of the lid (60) can be adjusted to the target rotation angle (θt).

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

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

[0178] Next, the drive mechanism (70) returns the lid (60) to the first position shown in FIG. 14(A) by the third operation. As a result, the lid (60) in the fully open position adheres to the base portion (47) via the packing (65), so that the lid (60) can be prevented from wobbling and can be stably supported. In addition, since the sealing performance of the packing (65) can be improved, leakage of air and water through the gap between the packing (65) and the base portion (47) can be suppressed.

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

[0180] Next, the drive mechanism (70) returns the lid (60) to the first position shown in Fig. 14(A) by the third operation. As a result, since the lid (60) in the closed position adheres to the base portion (47) via the packing (65), it is possible to suppress the lid (60) from wobbling and stably support the lid (60). In addition, since the sealing performance of the packing (65) can be improved, leakage of air and water through the gap between the packing (65) and the base portion (47) can be suppressed. Particularly in full-closed control, since ventilation of the internal space (3) of the container (1) is not performed, the airtightness of the container (1) is important. This is because if air from the external space (5) enters the container (1), the quality of the stored items may be impaired or the cooling load on the container refrigeration device (10) may increase. Therefore, by improving the sealing performance of the packing (65) in this way, the airtightness of the container (1) can be ensured and such problems can be avoided.

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

[0182] Next, the drive mechanism (70) returns the lid (60) to the first position shown in Fig. 14(A) by the third operation. As a result, since the lid (60) in the intermediate position adheres to the base portion (47) via the packing (65), it is possible to suppress the lid (60) from wobbling and stably support the lid (60). In addition, since the sealing performance of the packing (65) can be improved, leakage of air and water through the gap between the packing (65) and the base portion (47) can be suppressed. In the opening degree adjustment control, it is also possible to suppress the target ventilation volume from not being obtained due to air leakage.

[0183] (6) Effects of the Embodiment In the case of a structure for manually opening and closing the lid of the ventilation device, by firmly fastening the lid toward the base portion, the sealing performance between the lid and the base portion can be ensured. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since the ventilation opening (VO) is automatically opened and closed by the drive mechanism (70), the sealing performance between the lid and the base portion cannot be ensured manually.

[0184] On the other hand, the ventilation device (40) of the present embodiment includes a spring (77) as a pressing portion that presses the lid (60) toward the base portion (47). Since the spring (77) presses the lid (60) in the closed position toward the base portion (47), the packing (65) between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) can be sufficiently compressed. As a result, while automatically opening and closing the ventilation opening (VO), leakage of air and water between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) can be suppressed.

[0185] By suppressing air leakage, the airtightness of the container (1) can be improved. In particular, in the fully closed control, the airtightness of the container (1) can be sufficiently ensured, and the reliability of the refrigeration device (10) for the container can be improved. In the fully open control and the opening degree adjustment control, it is possible to suppress the situation where the target ventilation volume cannot be obtained. By suppressing water leakage, it is possible to suppress the wetting of devices such as the motor (71) of the ventilation device (40).

[0186] The spring (77) of the present embodiment is provided in the drive mechanism (70) as shown in FIG. 8. For this reason, while suppressing the spring (77) from interfering with the lid (60) or the base portion (47), the spring (77) can be provided inside the ventilation device (40). Therefore, the ventilation device (40) can be downsized.

[0187] Furthermore, since the spring (77) of the present embodiment is provided along the drive shaft (72), interference between the spring (77) and other components can be suppressed.

[0188] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the spring (77) is spiral, and the drive shaft (72) is inserted inside the spring (77). Therefore, interference between the spring (77) and other components can be suppressed. Since the spring (77) and the drive shaft (72) are arranged coaxially, interference between the spring (77) and other components can be suppressed even when the drive shaft (72) rotates.

[0189] In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, a convex portion (55) is provided between the lid (60) and the base portion (47). Since the convex portion (55) protrudes toward the packing (65), the packing (65) and the tip of the convex portion (55) can be brought into substantially line contact. Thereby, the sealing performance at the portion of the packing (65) that contacts the convex portion (55) can be improved.

[0190] The convex portion (55) of the present embodiment contacts the outer edges of the packing-side air supply opening (66) and the packing-side exhaust opening (67), which are openings through which air flows in the packing (65). Therefore, leakage of air and water can be suppressed at the outer edges of these openings in the packing (65).

[0191] In the present embodiment, the spring (77) presses the central portion of the lid (60) toward the base portion (47). Therefore, it is possible to suppress the pressing force of the packing (65) by the spring (77) from being biased in the circumferential direction. On the other hand, if this is done, the pressing force of the packing (65) by the spring (77) will decrease from the central portion toward the outer edge. In contrast, in the present embodiment, the protruding height of the convex portion (55) increases from the central portion of the lid (60) of the (60) toward the outer edge of the lid (60). Therefore, the compression force of the packing (65) can be made uniform in the radial direction, and the sealing performance of the packing (65) can be improved.

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

[0193] In this embodiment, a lid side opening (CO) is formed in the lid (60). The drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60) so as to adjust the overlapping area between the lid side opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO). Therefore, the opening degree of the ventilation opening (VO), and thus the ventilation volume, can be adjusted. When rotating the lid (60), by increasing the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47), the frictional force acting on the packing (65) can be reduced. As a result, the power of the motor (71) can be reduced, and the power consumption can be suppressed. Since the load torque of the motor (71) can be reduced, the motor (71) can be miniaturized. Since wear of the packing (65) can be suppressed, the frequency of replacement of the packing (65) can be reduced.

[0194] The drive mechanism (70) of this embodiment includes a motor (71) as a drive source and a drive shaft (72) that is rotationally driven by the motor (71). The drive mechanism (70) is configured to perform a rotational motion that rotates the lid (60) as the drive shaft (72) rotates, and a reciprocating motion that reciprocates the lid (60) in the axial direction, which is the first direction, as the drive shaft (72) rotates. Thereby, with one motor (71) and one drive shaft (72), the rotational motion and the reciprocating motion of the lid (60) can be performed.

[0195] The drive mechanism (70) of this embodiment includes a rod (73) connected to the drive shaft (72), and a cam mechanism (80) connected to the lid (60) and having a contact surface (82) with which the rod (73) contacts. The contact surface (82) includes a first transmission portion (C1) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to rotate the lid (60), and a second transmission portion (C2) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to reciprocate it. Thereby, the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) can be utilized as the reciprocating motion and the rotational motion of the lid (60).

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

[0197] The ventilation device (40) of the present embodiment includes a bearing (73b) as a low-friction part that reduces the frictional force between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80). Thereby, the frictional force between the rod (73) and the bearing (73b) can be reduced, so that wear of the rod (73) and the cam mechanism (80) can be suppressed. As a result, it is possible to suppress the reciprocating motion and rotational motion of the lid (60) from becoming unstable due to wear of these parts.

[0198] On the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80) of the present embodiment, a first flat surface (86) along a surface perpendicular to the axial direction is formed between the first end face (83a) and the first inclined surface (84). For this reason, the rod (73) moving from the first inclined surface (84) to the first end face (83a) contacts the first end face (83a) after passing through the first flat surface (86). As a result, it is possible to suppress the rod (73) from contacting both the first inclined surface (84) and the first flat surface (86) at the same time, and it is possible to smoothly shift from the first reciprocating motion to the first rotational motion.

[0199] Similarly, on the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80) of the present embodiment, a second flat surface (87) along a surface perpendicular to the axial direction is formed between the second end surface (83b) and the second inclined surface (85). For this reason, the rod (73) moving from the second inclined surface (85) to the second end surface (83b) contacts the second end surface (83b) after passing through the second flat surface (87). As a result, it is possible to suppress the rod (73) from contacting both the second inclined surface (85) and the second flat surface (87) at the same time, and it is possible to smoothly shift from the second reciprocating motion to the second rotational motion.

[0200] Three or more rods (73) are connected to the drive shaft (72) of the present embodiment. Thereby, the stress between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) can be dispersed, and the cam mechanism (80) can be stably driven. Furthermore, wear between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) can be suppressed.

[0201] The drive mechanism (70) of the present embodiment is configured to perform a first operation of moving the lid (60) at the first position that compresses the packing (65) to a second position farther from the base portion (47) than the first position, and after the first operation, a second operation of rotating the lid (60) to a predetermined rotation angle while maintaining the lid (60) at the second position. By this operation, since the lid (60) can be rotated while reducing the frictional force of the packing (65), the power of the motor (71) can be reduced, and the power consumption can be suppressed. Since the load torque of the motor (71) can be reduced, the motor (71) can be miniaturized. Since wear of the packing (65) can be suppressed, the frequency of replacement of the packing (65) can be reduced.

[0202] The drive mechanism (70) of the present embodiment is configured to perform a third operation of moving the lid (60) to the first position while maintaining the lid (60) at a predetermined rotation angle after the second operation. Thereby, after adjusting the lid (60) to a predetermined angle, the lid (60) approaches the base portion (47) by the third operation. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the lid (60) from wobbling due to vibration or the like. In addition, since the packing (65) is compressed by the third operation, it is possible to suppress air or water from leaking.

[0203] In this embodiment, the predetermined rotation angle includes a first rotation angle (θ1) at which the entire ventilation opening (VO) is blocked by the lid (60). In other words, the drive mechanism (70) sets the lid (60) to the first position after setting the lid (60) to the closed position. When the lid (60) is in the closed position, it is necessary to ensure the airtightness of the container (1). On the other hand, when the lid (60) is in the first position, the packing (65) is compressed, so that the airtightness of the container (1) can be sufficiently ensured.

[0204] This embodiment includes a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the rotation angle of the lid (60) becomes a set target value. Thereby, the opening area of the ventilation opening (VO), and further the ventilation volume, can be arbitrarily adjusted.

[0205] When the refrigerant leakage sensor (110) detects refrigerant leakage, the control unit (100) of this embodiment controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the lid (60) is in the closed position. Thereby, when the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (R) leaks, it is possible to suppress the refrigerant from leaking from the inside of the container (1) to the outside.

[0206] (7) Modification The above embodiment may be configured as the following modification. Hereinafter, basically, the differences from the above embodiment will be described.

[0207] (7-1) Modification 1 In the ventilation device (40) of Modification 1 shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, the lid (60) does not perform a rotational movement but only a reciprocating movement. A lid-side opening (CO) is not formed in the lid (60). A packing-side air supply opening (66) and a packing-side exhaust opening (67) are not formed in the packing (65). When the lid (60) moves away from the base portion (47), a gap is formed between the outer edge of the lid (60) and the base portion (47). In Modification 1, this gap constitutes the ventilation opening (VO).

[0208] The drive mechanism (70) rotates the drive shaft (72) as in the above-described embodiment. When the rod (73) comes into contact with the first inclined surface (84) and the second inclined surface (85) which are the second transmission part (C2), the cam mechanism (80) reciprocates in the axial direction. As shown in Fig. 20(A), when the lid (60) is in the first position, a packing (65) is sandwiched between the lid (60) and the base part (47), and the packing (65) is compressed. In this state, the ventilation port (VO) between the lid (60) and the base part (47) is closed. In Modification 1, when the lid (60) is in the first position (closed position), the ventilation port (VO) is in a fully closed state. In this state, since the gap between the lid (60) and the base part (47) is sealed by the packing (65), the airtightness of the container (1) can be sufficiently ensured.

[0209] As shown in Fig. 20(B), when the lid (60) is in the second position, the lid (60) moves away from the base part (47), and a ventilation port (VO) is formed between the lid (60) and the base part (47). In Modification 1, when the lid (60) is in the second position (open position), the ventilation port (VO) is in an open state. In this state, the compression of the packing (65) by the lid (60) is released.

[0210] In Modification 1, the drive mechanism (70) moves the lid (60) so as to adjust the distance between the lid (60) and the base part (47). When the distance between the lid (60) and the base part (47) changes, the opening area of the ventilation port (VO) also changes. Therefore, the ventilation amount can be adjusted by adjusting the axial position of the lid (60).

[0211] As shown in Figs. 18 and 19, in the ventilation device (40), as pressing parts, in addition to the spring (77) similar to the embodiment, a first auxiliary spring (121) and a second auxiliary spring (122) are provided. The first auxiliary spring (121) and the second auxiliary spring (122) are located near the outer periphery of the lid (60). The first auxiliary spring (121) and the second auxiliary spring (122) are in positions facing each other with the axis (X) interposed therebetween. The first auxiliary spring (121) and the second auxiliary spring (122) are respectively located between the air supply port (48) and the exhaust port (49) when viewed from the axial direction.

[0212] The ventilation device (40) is provided with a first column member (123), a second column member (124), a first connecting member (125), and a second connecting member (126).

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

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

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

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

[0217] The container (1) does not have to be for maritime transportation, and may be for overland transportation carried by vehicles such as trailers or by railways.

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

[0219] The ventilation device (40) may only have the function of supplying air that conveys the air in the exterior space (5) to the interior space (3), and the exhaust may be carried out naturally from the exhaust port. The ventilation device (40) may only have the function of exhausting air that conveys the air in the interior space (3) to the exterior space (5), and the supply of air may be carried out naturally from the air supply port.

[0220] The ventilation device (40) of the above-described embodiment adjusts the opening degree of the ventilation port (VO) by rotating the lid (60). However, similar to Modification 1, the ventilation device (40) may adjust the opening degree of the ventilation port (VO) by adjusting the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47).

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

[0222] The sealing member may be a member other than packing as long as it is a material having elasticity.

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

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

[0225] In Modification 1, the packing (65) may be fixed to the base portion (47). In this case, an opening serving as a ventilation port is formed in the packing (65).

[0226] The drive source of the drive mechanism (70) is not limited to the motor (71), and may have any configuration as long as it can rotate or reciprocate the lid (60).

[0227] The drive mechanism (70) may separately include a drive source for rotating the lid (60) and a drive source for reciprocating the lid (60).

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

[0229] The spring (77) may be a leaf spring or an elastic material. The spring (77) does not have to have the drive shaft (72) inserted therethrough. The spring (77) may extend axially so as to be adjacent to the drive shaft (72).

[0230] The pressing portion does not have to be a spring. The pressing portion presses the lid (60) toward the base portion (47) using, for example, hydraulic pressure or the pressure of a refrigerant.

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

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

[0233] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Also, the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or replaced as appropriate as long as the functions of the subject of the present disclosure are not impaired.

[0234] The above descriptions such as "first", "second", "third",... are used to distinguish the phrases to which these descriptions are given, and do not limit even the number or order of those phrases.

Industrial Applicability

[0235] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for a ventilation device.

Explanation of Signs

[0236] 2 Container body 40 Ventilation device 47 Base portion 55 Protrusion 60 Lid 65 Packing (sealing member) 70 Driving mechanism 71 Motor (driving source) 72 Driving shaft 73 Rod 73b Bearing (low friction portion) 77 Spring 77, 121, 122 Pressing portion 80 Cam mechanism 82 Contact surface 100 Control unit 110 Refrigerant leakage sensor C1 First transmission portion C2 Second transmission portion CO Lid-side opening (opening) VO Ventilation port

Claims

1. A ventilation device for a container provided in a container body (2), a base portion (47) having a ventilation opening (VO) for communicating the inside and the outside of the container body (2), a lid (60) for opening and closing the ventilation opening (VO), a drive mechanism (70) for displacing the lid (60) between an open position and a closed position, a seal member (65) formed at a position surrounding the ventilation opening (VO) between the base portion (47) and the lid (60), a pressing portion (77, 121, 122) for pressing the lid (60) toward the base portion (47) and comprising, the drive mechanism (70) has a drive source (71) and a drive shaft (72) rotationally driven by the drive source (71), the drive mechanism (70) is configured to move the lid (60) in the axial direction of the drive shaft (72) so as to adjust the distance between the lid (60) and the base portion (47), an opening (CO) that penetrates the lid (60) in the axial direction of the drive shaft (72) is formed in the lid (60), the drive mechanism (70) rotates the lid (60) so as to adjust the overlapping area of the opening (CO) and the ventilation opening (VO) when viewed in the axial direction of the drive shaft (72) A ventilation device for a container.

2. the pressing portion (77, 121, 122) is provided in the drive mechanism (70) The ventilation device for a container according to claim 1.

3. the pressing portion (77, 121, 122) has a spring (77) provided along the drive shaft (72) The ventilation device for a container according to claim 2.

4. a convex portion (55) protruding toward the seal member (65) is provided between the lid (60) and the base portion (47) The ventilation device for a container according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The pressing portion (77, 121, 122) is configured to press the central portion of the lid (60) toward the base portion (47), The protruding height of the convex portion (55) increases from the central portion of the lid (60) toward the outer edge of the lid (60). The ventilation device for a container according to claim 4.

6. The drive mechanism (70) is configured to perform a rotational movement that rotates the lid (60) as the drive shaft (72) rotates, and a reciprocating movement that reciprocates the lid (60) in the axial direction of the drive shaft (72) as the drive shaft (72) rotates. The ventilation device for a container according to claim 1.

7. The drive mechanism (70) A rod (73) connected to one of the drive shaft (72) and the lid (60), A cam mechanism (80) that is connected to the other of the drive shaft (72) and the lid (60) and has a contact surface (82) with which the rod (73) contacts, The contact surface (82) includes a first transmission portion (C1) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to rotate the lid (60), and a second transmission portion (C2) that transmits the rotational force of the drive shaft (72) to the lid (60) to reciprocate the lid (60). The ventilation device for a container according to claim 6.

8. A low friction portion (73b) that reduces the frictional force between the rod (73) and the contact surface (82) of the cam mechanism (80) is provided. The ventilation device for a container according to claim 7.

9. Three or more rods (73) are connected to the drive shaft (72). The ventilation device for a container according to claim 7.

10. The drive mechanism (70) performs a first operation of moving the lid (60) at the first position that compresses the seal member (65) to a second position farther from the base portion (47) than the first position, and is configured to perform a second operation of rotating the lid (60) to a predetermined rotation angle while maintaining the lid (60) at the second position after the first operation. The ventilation device for a container according to claim 1.

11. The drive mechanism (70) is configured to perform a third operation of moving the lid (60) to the first position while maintaining the lid (60) at the predetermined rotation angle after the second operation. The ventilation device for a container according to claim 10.

12. The predetermined rotation angle includes a first rotation angle at which the entire ventilation opening (VO) is closed by the lid (60). The ventilation device for a container according to claim 11.

13. comprises a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the rotation angle of the lid (60) becomes a set target value. The ventilation device for a container according to claim 1.

14. a refrigerant leak sensor (110) for detecting a refrigerant leak, and a control unit (100) that controls the drive mechanism (70) so that the lid (60) is in a closed position when the refrigerant leak sensor (110) detects a refrigerant leak. The ventilation device for a container according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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