Water tap and lead-acid battery equipped therewith

Abstract

To provide a water supply tap capable of suppressing a failure at the time of supplying water.SOLUTION: A water supply tap comprises: a body part 2 including a main surface 2a; and a float mounted onto the body part. The body part includes: a valve chamber provided into an inner part of the body part; a water supply outlet 13 that communicates an external part and the valve chamber; a valve base 15 that is provided to the main surface, and communicates the external part and the valve chamber of the main body part; a first flow outlet 16 and a second flow outlet 17 that penetrate the body part so as to be separated to the valve chamber and the valve base; and a wall part 18 stood from the main surface and separating the first and second flow outlets. The float includes: a floating member that is linked to a liquid surface of an electrolyte housed in a power storage battery; and a valve switching the valve base so as to be linked to the float member. In view of a standing direction of the wall part, the wall part includes: a tip end part 21 positioned at a center part of the main surface; a first side part 22 extended toward the first flow outlet from the tip end part; and a second side part 23 extended toward the second flow outlet from the tip end part. The tip end part is positioned at a position near from the valve base from the first and second flow outlets.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a water replenishing plug and a lead-acid battery including the same.

Background Art

[0002] In a type of battery such as a lead-acid battery, it is necessary to periodically replenish the electrolyte. In such a storage battery, a water replenishing plug for replenishing purified water or the like is provided. Patent Document 1 below discloses a water replenishing plug for a storage battery including a main body portion having a main surface located outside the storage battery when mounted on the storage battery, and a float mounted on the main body portion. In this water replenishing plug, the main body portion has a wall portion including a first side surface that stands upright from the main surface and extends from the outlet toward the valve seat. When viewed from the standing direction of the wall portion, both the valve seat and the outlet are located on one side of the first side surface in the intersecting direction intersecting the first side surface.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In Patent Document 1, the wall portion divides the main surface of the main body portion into a plurality of regions, and the valve seat and the outlet are provided in the same region. Thereby, the water reaching the main surface from the valve seat is supplied to the storage battery through the outlet. In addition, a notch is provided in the wall portion of Patent Document 1. Thereby, it is intended to limit the position of the water overflowing from the above region to the notch.

[0005] However, with respect to the water supply valve described in Patent Document 1, if the amount of water supplied per unit time is increased, the location of the water that is about to overflow from the area where the valve seat and outlet are provided will no longer be limited to the notch. As a result, water may flow to a channel other than the intended one in the water supply valve, which may cause problems such as residual electrolyte on the main surface.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure aims to provide a water replenishment tap that can suppress malfunctions during water replenishment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A water supply valve for a storage battery according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a main body having a main surface located outside the storage battery when it is attached to the storage battery, and a float attached to the main body. The main body comprises a valve chamber located inside the main body, a water inlet connecting the outside of the main body to the valve chamber, a valve seat located on the main surface connecting the outside of the main body to the valve chamber, a first outlet and a second outlet located on the main surface, spaced apart from the valve chamber and valve seat, and penetrating the main body, and a wall portion erected from the main surface and separating the first outlet and the second outlet. The float comprises a floating member that is linked to the liquid level of the electrolyte contained in the storage battery, and a valve located in the valve chamber that opens and closes the valve seat in conjunction with the floating member. Viewed from the direction in which the wall portion is erected, the wall portion comprises a tip located in the center of the main surface, a first side portion extending from the tip toward the first outlet, and a second side portion extending from the tip toward the second outlet, with the tip portion located closer to the valve seat than the first and second outlets.

[0008] In this water supply valve, water supplied from the water inlet to the valve chamber reaches the main surface of the main body via the valve seat, which is in an open state. Water is then supplied to the battery when the water flowing on the main surface reaches either the first or second outlet. Here, the main surface is provided with a wall that extends from the main body and separates the first and second outlets. This wall has a tip located in the center of the main surface, a first side extending from the tip toward the first outlet, and a second side extending from the tip toward the second outlet. The tip is located closer to the valve seat than the first and second outlets. Therefore, water flowing from the valve seat onto the main surface is more likely to reach the tip first in the wall. Furthermore, the water that reaches the tip is more likely to flow along the first side toward the first outlet, and then along the second side toward the second outlet. Therefore, even if the amount of water supplied per unit time increases, water is less likely to flow outside the intended path on the main surface of the main body, and water residue on the main surface is less likely to occur. Consequently, by using the above-mentioned water replenishment valve, problems during water replenishment can be suppressed.

[0009] A water tap for a storage battery according to another aspect of the present invention comprises a main body having a main surface located outside the storage battery when it is attached to the storage battery, and a float attached to the main body. The main body comprises a valve chamber located inside the main body, a water inlet connecting the outside of the main body to the valve chamber, a valve seat provided on the main surface connecting the outside of the main body to the valve chamber, a first outlet and a second outlet provided on the main surface, spaced apart from the valve chamber and valve seat and penetrating the main body, and a wall portion erected from the main surface and separating the first outlet and the second outlet. The float comprises a floating member that is linked to the liquid level of the electrolyte contained in the storage battery, and a valve located in the valve chamber that opens and closes the valve seat in conjunction with the floating member. Viewed from the direction in which the wall portion is erected, the wall portion comprises a tip located in the center of the main surface, a first side portion that guides a portion of the water supplied from the water inlet and reaching the main surface via the valve chamber and valve seat from the tip portion to the first outlet, and a second side portion that guides another portion of the water from the tip portion to the second outlet.

[0010] In this water supply valve, water supplied from the water inlet to the valve chamber reaches the main surface of the main body via an open valve seat. Water is then supplied to the battery as the water flowing along the main surface reaches either the first or second outlet. The main surface is provided with a wall that extends from the main body and separates the first and second outlets. This wall has a tip located in the center of the main surface, a first side that guides a portion of the water supplied from the water inlet and reaching the main surface via the valve chamber and valve seat from the tip to the first outlet, and a second side that guides another portion of the water from the tip to the second outlet. Therefore, even if the amount of water supplied per unit time increases, water is less likely to flow in directions other than the intended path on the main surface of the main body, and water residue on the main surface is less likely to occur. Thus, by using this water supply valve, problems during water replenishment can be suppressed.

[0011] The main body may further have a projection that is located on the opposite side of the first outlet via a valve seat when viewed from the vertical direction, and has side walls and a top surface that rise from the main surface. In this case, water that would otherwise flow to the opposite side of the first outlet via the valve seat when viewed from the vertical direction is blocked by the side walls of the projection. This makes it easier to restrict the flow path of water on the main surface to the intended shape.

[0012] The main body is provided on the main surface and is spaced apart from the valve seat, first outlet, second outlet, wall portion, and protrusion portion, and further has a through hole that penetrates the main body. The float has a first shaft connected to the floating member and extending in the vertical direction, through which the through hole is inserted, a second shaft connected to the valve and extending in the vertical direction, through which the valve seat is inserted, and a connecting portion connecting the first shaft and the second shaft, and a part of the connecting portion may be located on the main surface between the wall portion and the protrusion portion. In this case, the movement of the float can be restricted by the wall portion and the protrusion portion, so that the functions of the floating member and valve included in the float can be performed well.

[0013] The protruding portion extends from the side wall when viewed from the vertical direction and further has an extending portion that is erected from the main surface, the extending portion is spaced apart from the wall portion, and the tip of the extending portion may extend toward the second side portion. In this case, water that reaches the protruding portion is more likely to travel along the extending portion toward the second side portion, so that water residue on the main surface is less likely to occur.

[0014] The tip surface included in the tip of the extended portion may be a sloping surface that slopes downward toward the main surface. In this case, water that reaches the protruding portion is more likely to travel along the extended portion toward the second side portion.

[0015] The above-mentioned water supply valve may further include a cover portion positioned in contact with the top surface of the wall and located on the valve seat. In this case, it is possible to effectively suppress the outflow of water from the valve seat to the main surface of the main body to the outside of the water supply valve. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a water supply valve that can suppress problems during water replenishment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view of a water supply valve according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the main parts of the water supply valve. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view showing the main parts of the water supply valve. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a plan view showing the main body. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along the VV line in Figure 4. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an exploded view of the main body. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a float. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the valve seat in the open position. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the valve seat in the closed position.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments according to one aspect of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be used for the same elements or elements having the same function, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a side view of a water replenishing plug according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the main part of the water replenishing plug, and FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the main part of the water replenishing plug. In FIGS. 2 and 3, the float 4 described later is omitted. The water replenishing plug 1 is a member for a storage battery for supplying a liquid such as water stored in the storage battery without excess or deficiency, and is attached to a liquid port 100B provided in a battery case 100A (see FIGS. 8 and 9) of the storage battery. Further, the water replenishing plug 1 also exhibits a function of preventing backflow or the like during liquid supply. Although not shown, from the viewpoint of preventing liquid leakage between the water replenishing plug 1 and the liquid port 100B, the water replenishing plug 1 is attached to the liquid port 100B via a sealing material such as a packing. The storage battery to which the water replenishing plug 1 is attached is a liquid type storage battery such as a lead storage battery.

[0020] The water replenishing plug 1 includes a main body portion 2, a cover portion 3 attached to the main body portion 2, and a float 4 attached to the main body portion 2. Hereinafter, the direction in which the floating member 51 of the float 4 moves in conjunction with the liquid level of the electrolyte L stored in the battery case 100A is defined as direction D1, and the intersecting directions intersecting with direction D1 in a plan view are defined as direction D2 and direction D3. Also hereinafter, looking from direction D1 corresponds to a plan view. In this embodiment, direction D2 and direction D3 are orthogonal to each other, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0021] (Main Body Portion) Next, the structure of the main body 2 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 4 to 6, in addition to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 4 is a plan view showing the main body. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along the VV line in Figure 4. Figure 6 is an exploded view of the main body. The main body 2 is the part through which the liquid supplied to the battery flows, and is also the part that is attached to the battery. In other words, the main body 2 is the part that constitutes the liquid flow path. Also, as shown in Figure 6, the main body 2 is a combined structure of the first structure 5 and the second structure 6. The main body 2 is formed by the combination of the first structure 5 and the second structure 6. When the water supply valve 1 is attached to the battery, the first structure 5 is located outside the battery. On the other hand, most of the second structure 6 is located inside the battery, and the rest of the second structure 6 is covered by the first structure 5.

[0022] As shown in Figures 2-5, the main body 2 has a main surface 2a that is located outside the battery when the water tap 1 is attached to the battery. The main body 2 also has a peripheral wall 11 surrounding the edge of the main surface 2a, a projection 12 protruding along direction D1, a water inlet 13 exposed from the cover 3, an internal space 14 provided inside the main body 2, a valve seat 15 connected to the internal space 14, a first outlet 16 and a second outlet 17 spaced apart from the internal space 14 and the valve seat 15, a wall portion 18 erected from the main surface 2a, and a through hole 19 spaced apart from the valve seat 15.

[0023] When using a water supply valve 1 equipped with a main body 2, the liquid supplied to the water supply valve 1 from the water inlet 13 normally passes through the internal space 14, the valve seat 15, and either the first outlet 16 or the second outlet 17 in that order before being supplied to the battery. In the following, the liquid supplied to the battery by passing through the water inlet 13, the internal space 14, the valve seat 15, and the first outlet 16 in that order is assumed to have passed through the intended flow path FLa configured in the main body 2. Also, the liquid supplied to the battery by passing through the water inlet 13, the internal space 14, the valve seat 15, and the second outlet 17 in that order is assumed to have passed through the intended flow path FLb configured in the main body 2. A detailed explanation of flow paths FLa and FLb will be given later.

[0024] The peripheral wall 11 is a part located on the main surface 2a of the main body 2 that prevents or suppresses leakage of liquid to the outside, and is erected in an annular shape along direction D1. The peripheral wall 11 has an annular base portion 11a, a roughly semicircular first peripheral wall portion 11b that can be housed in the cover portion 3, a second peripheral wall portion 11c that extends along the edge of the cover portion 3, and a cylindrical portion 11d that is exposed from the cover portion 3 and surrounds the water inlet 13 in a plan view. In a plan view, a part of the first peripheral wall portion 11b, the second peripheral wall portion 11c, and the cylindrical portion 11d are located on one side of the center of the main body 2 in direction D3 (right side of the paper in Figure 4), and most of the first peripheral wall portion 11b is located on the other side of the center in direction D3 (left side of the paper in Figure 4), but is not limited to this. The base portion 11a, the first peripheral wall portion 11b, the second peripheral wall portion 11c, and the cylindrical portion 11d are integrally molded.

[0025] The base portion 11a is an annular portion provided along the edge of the main surface 2a of the main body portion 2, and serves as the base for the first circumferential wall portion 11b, the second circumferential wall portion 11c, and the cylindrical portion 11d. A part of the base portion 11a is part of the portion that defines the flow paths FLa and FLb on the main surface 2a. In a plan view, the protrusion 12, the valve seat 15, the first outlet 16, the second outlet 17, the wall portion 18, and the through hole 19 are located inside the base portion 11a.

[0026] The first circumferential wall portion 11b and the second circumferential wall portion 11c are portions that prevent or suppress leakage of liquid to the outside of the flow paths FLa and FLb and located on the main surface 2a. The first circumferential wall portion 11b is joined to the second circumferential wall portion 11c without a gap on one side in direction D3, but is not limited to this. The first circumferential wall portion 11b may also be joined to the second circumferential wall portion 11c without a gap on the other side in direction D3. The second circumferential wall portion 11c connects the first circumferential wall portion 11b and the cylindrical portion 11d without a gap. In plan view, the radius of curvature of the second circumferential wall portion 11c is larger than the radius of curvature of the first circumferential wall portion 11b, but is not limited to this. The outer circumferential surface of the first circumferential wall portion 11b is provided with a projection 11e, which is a locking portion that engages with the opening / closing portion 41 (details described later) of the cover portion 3.

[0027] The cylindrical portion 11d is a mounting port for a device that supplies liquid to the water inlet 13, or a mounting port for an accessory (attachment) for mounting said device. The cylindrical portion 11d is located, for example, at one end in direction D3. In direction D1, the height of the cylindrical portion 11d is higher than, but not limited to, the height of the first circumferential wall portion 11b and the height of the second circumferential wall portion 11c. In direction D1, the height of the first circumferential wall portion 11b and the height of the second circumferential wall portion 11c are the same as each other, but not limited to this.

[0028] The protruding portion 12 is a part that defines a connection space CS1 connecting the water inlet 13 and the internal space 14. Therefore, a connection space CS1 is provided inside the protruding portion 12. The protruding portion 12 also supports a part of the cover portion 3. In a plan view, the protruding portion 12 is located on the opposite side of the first outlet 16 via the valve seat 15. Also in a plan view, the protruding portion 12, the valve seat 15, and the first outlet 16 are arranged in order in direction D2. The protruding portion 12 is located on one side in direction D3. The protruding portion 12 is integrated with, for example, the base portion 11a of the peripheral wall 11, but is not limited to this. In this embodiment, the protruding portion 12 corresponds to the part located on one side of the valve seat 15 in direction D2 (the lower side of the paper in Figure 4). Therefore, the part located on the other side of the valve seat 15 in direction D2 (the upper side in Figure 4) and integrated with the protruding portion 12 will be treated as a different part from the protruding portion 12 for explanatory purposes.

[0029] The projection 12 has a side wall 12a erected from the main surface 2a, a top surface 12b extending from the top of the side wall 12a, and an extended portion 12c that extends from the side wall 12a in a plan view and is erected from the main surface 2a. The side wall 12a is part of the portion that defines the flow paths FLa and FLb on the main surface 2a. The side wall 12a is joined to the base portion 11a of the peripheral wall 11 without any gaps, while being spaced apart from the wall portion 18. The top surface 12b is the portion where a part of the cover portion 3 is arranged, and in direction D1 it is located closer to the cover portion 3 than the main surface 2a. The extended portion 12c is the portion that extends from the side wall 12a toward the wall portion 18, and is spaced apart from the wall portion 18. Therefore, a gap S1 is provided between the extended portion 12c and the wall portion 18. The extended portion 12c has a base portion 12d connected to the side wall 12a and a tip portion 12e connected to the base portion 12d and extending toward the wall portion 18 (particularly the second side portion 23 of the wall portion 18, which will be described later). The base portion 12d has a substantially arc shape that protrudes toward the other side in direction D3 when viewed from above, and has a top surface 12f on which the cover portion 3 is arranged. In this embodiment, the top surfaces 12b and 12f are located on the same plane, but are not limited to this. The tip portion 12e has a tip surface 12g which is an inclined surface connected to the top surface 12f and the main surface 2a. The tip surface 12g is an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the main surface 2a as it approaches the wall portion 18.

[0030] The water inlet 13 is the entrance to the flow paths FLa and FLb, and connects the external and internal spaces 14 of the main body 2. In plan view, the water inlet 13 is surrounded by the cylindrical portion 11d of the peripheral wall 11. The water inlet 13 communicates with the internal space 14 via the connection space CS1 defined by the protruding portion 12.

[0031] The internal space 14 is a portion of the main body 2 that temporarily stores liquid. The internal space 14 has a first space 14a that communicates with the connecting space CS1, a second space 14b that communicates with the valve seat 15, and a connecting space CS2 that connects the first space 14a and the second space 14b. For example, from the viewpoint of adjusting the liquid supply speed, in direction D1, the first space 14a does not overlap with the water inlet 13, but is not limited to this. The second space 14b houses a valve 53 (see Figures 7-9; details will be described later) that opens and closes the valve seat 15 in conjunction with the float 4. For this reason, the internal space 14 having the second space 14b is also called the valve chamber in which the valve 53 is housed. The connecting space CS2 is an opening provided in the partition between the first space 14a and the second space 14b, and is located on the bottom side of the main body 2 in direction D1.

[0032] The valve seat 15 is an opening that connects the exterior of the main body 2 with the internal space 14 which is the valve chamber, and is provided on the main surface 2a. The valve seat 15 is located on the side of the main body 2 closer to the center than the first outlet 16 in direction D2, and on the other side of the water inlet 13 in direction D3. The valve seat 15 has a recess 15a that fits into the valve 53. The recess 15a is provided inside the main body 2. In plan view, the area around the valve seat 15 is raised along the shape of the recess 15a, but is not limited to this.

[0033] The first outlet 16 is the outlet of the flow path FLa and is a through-hole provided on the main surface 2a and penetrating the main body 2. In a plan view, the first outlet 16 is located on the other side of the valve seat 15 in direction D2. A part of the main surface 2a surrounding the first outlet 16 may be provided with an inclined portion that slopes downward toward the first outlet 16. The first outlet 16 is located on one side of the wall 18 in direction D3. Therefore, in direction D3, the first outlet 16 is closer to the water inlet 13 than to the wall 18.

[0034] The second outlet 17 is the outlet of the flow path FLb, and is provided on the main surface 2a and penetrates the main body 2. When liquid that has reached the main surface 2a via the valve seat 15 leaves the flow path FLa and reaches the second outlet 17, that is, when liquid that has reached the main surface 2a reaches the second outlet 17 along the flow path FLb, the liquid is supplied into the battery via the second outlet 17. The second outlet 17 has, but is not limited to, a main through hole 17a and a sub-through hole 17b defined within the main through hole 17a. The second outlet 17 is also the part through which an inspection device (not shown) for inspecting the inside of the battery is inserted. In plan view, the second outlet 17 is located on the opposite side of the first outlet 16 via the wall portion 18. For this reason, the second outlet 17 is located on the other side of the wall portion 18 in direction D3. Around the second outlet 17, the main surface 2a has a sloping portion SF that slopes downward toward the second outlet 17. This makes it easier for liquid that reaches the sloping portion SF to reach the second outlet 17 via the sloping portion SF.

[0035] The wall portion 18, like the side wall 12a of the protruding portion 12, is part of the portion that defines the flow paths FLa and FLb on the main surface 2a, and is erected along direction D1. For this reason, direction D1 is also referred to as the direction in which the wall portion 18 is erected. In plan view, the wall portion 18 is located between the first outlet 16 and the second outlet 17. For this reason, the wall portion 18 functions as a partition separating the first outlet 16 and the second outlet 17. The wall portion 18 extends from the first circumferential wall portion 11b toward the center of the main surface 2a along direction D2. In plan view, the wall portion 18 has a tip portion 21, a first side portion 22, a second side portion 23, and a top surface 25.

[0036] The tip portion 21 is the free end of the wall portion 18 in a plan view and is located in the center of the main surface 2a. The tip portion 21 extends along direction D3 in a plan view and faces the side wall 12a in direction D2. The tip portion 21 and the side wall 12a are spaced apart from each other. Therefore, a gap S2 is provided between the tip portion 21 and the side wall 12a. The tip portion 21 is positioned, for example, alongside the valve seat 15 in direction D3, but is not limited to this. The tip portion 21 may also be positioned alongside the valve seat 15 in direction D2. The tip portion 21 is located closer to the valve seat 15 than the first outlet 16 and the second outlet 17. Therefore, liquid that has reached the main surface 2a from the valve seat 15 is more likely to reach the tip portion 21 than the first outlet 16 and the second outlet 17. The central part of the main surface 2a is, for example, the region including the center of the main surface 2a and its surroundings, and corresponds to a region closer to the center than the peripheral wall 11.

[0037] The first side portion 22 functions as a guide that directs a portion of the liquid that has reached the main surface 2a from the tip portion 21 to the first outlet 16, and extends from the base portion 11a of the peripheral wall 11 to the tip portion 21 in a plan view. In a plan view, the first side portion 22 extends generally in direction D1 and intersects with direction D3. In direction D3, the first side portion 22 is located on the other side of the valve seat 15 and the first outlet 16. In other words, both the valve seat 15 and the first outlet 16 are located on one side of the first side portion 22 in direction D3. A portion 22a of the first side portion 22 defines a portion of the first outlet 16 in a plan view. The other portion 22b of the first side portion 22 is located on one side of the portion 22a in direction D2. In addition, in a plan view, the other portion 22b is aligned with the valve seat 15 and the water inlet 13 in direction D3. Therefore, in a plan view, the first side portion 22 extends from the tip portion 21 toward the first outlet portion 16.

[0038] The second side portion 23 functions as a guide to direct another portion of the liquid that has reached the main surface 2a from the tip portion 21 to the second outlet 17, and extends from the base portion 11a of the peripheral wall 11 to the tip portion 21 in a plan view. In a plan view, the second side portion 23 extends generally in direction D1 and intersects with direction D3. In direction D3, the second side portion 23 is located on the opposite side of the valve seat 15 and the first outlet 16, with the first side portion 22 in between. A portion 23a of the second side portion 23 defines a part of the second outlet 17 in a plan view and is provided with a groove extending along direction D1. This groove functions as a guide when inserting a member into the second outlet 17 and extends to the second outlet 17. The other portion 23b of the second side portion 23 is located on one side of the above portion 23a in direction D2. In addition, in a plan view, the other part 23b is aligned with the valve seat 15 and the water inlet 13 in direction D3. Therefore, in a plan view, the second side part 23 extends from the tip part 21 toward the second outlet 17.

[0039] The through-hole 19 is a portion through which a part of the float 4 is inserted, and is provided on the main surface 2a and penetrates the main body 2. The through-hole 19 is spaced apart from the valve seat 15, the first outlet 16, the second outlet 17, the wall portion 18, and the protruding portion 12. In direction D2, the through-hole 19 is located on the other side of the valve seat 15 and the wall portion 18. In plan view, the through-hole 19 is located on the opposite side of the second outlet 17 in direction D2, via a gap S1. Therefore, in plan view, a gap S1 is provided between the through-hole 19 and the second outlet 17. In addition, a gap S2 is located between the through-hole 19 and the valve seat 15, formed by the protruding portion 12 and the tip portion 21 of the wall portion 18. Therefore, the through-hole 19 is located on the opposite side of the valve seat 15 via the gap S2. When the liquid that has reached the main surface 2a via the valve seat 15 passes through the gap S2 and leaves the flow paths FLa and FLb to reach the through hole 19, the liquid is supplied into the storage battery through the through hole 19 (flow path EFL).

[0040] (Flow path in the main body) Next, referring to Figures 4 and 5, we will explain the intended flow paths FLa and FLb formed in the main body 2, and the liquid flow that deviates from these flow paths FLa and FLb (i.e., unintended flow paths). As shown in Figures 4 and 5, flow path FLa can be divided into, for example, the first flow path FL1, the second flow path FL2, the third flow path FL3, the fourth flow path FL4, and the fifth flow path FL5. Similarly, flow path FLb can be divided into, for example, the first flow path FL1, the second flow path FL2, the third flow path FL3, the fourth flow path FL4, and the sixth flow path FL6.

[0041] The first flow path FL1 indicates the flow path of liquid supplied from the outside to the water inlet 13. The second flow path FL2 indicates the flow path of liquid that passes through the first flow path FL1 and then heads towards the connection space CS1 of the protruding part 12. The third flow path FL3 indicates the flow path of liquid that passes through the second flow path FL2 and then heads towards the internal space 14. The fourth flow path FL4 indicates the flow path of liquid that passes through the valve seat 15, which is in an open state, from the internal space 14 to the main surface 2a of the main body 2.

[0042] The fifth flow path FL5 indicates the flow path of the liquid that has reached the main surface 2a and is heading toward the first outlet 16. For example, a portion of the liquid that has reached the main surface 2a via the valve seat 15 flows toward the first outlet 16, or flows toward the first outlet 16 via the tip 21 of the wall portion 18 and along the first side portion 22. Therefore, the liquid that has passed through the first flow path FL1 to the fifth flow path FL5 in order is supplied to the inside of the battery via the first outlet 16.

[0043] The sixth flow path FL6 indicates the flow path of the liquid that has reached the main surface 2a and is heading toward the second outlet 17. For example, another portion of the liquid that has reached the main surface 2a via the valve seat 15 flows toward the second outlet 17 through gaps S1 and S2, or flows toward the second outlet 17 by traveling along the second side portion 23 while passing through gap S1 from the tip portion 21 of the wall portion 18. Alternatively, the other portion that has passed through gap S2 is guided by the extended portion 12c to the wall portion 18 or gap S1, and consequently flows toward the second outlet 17. The liquid that has passed through the first flow path FL1 to the fourth flow path FL4 and then the sixth flow path FL6 in order is supplied to the inside of the battery via the first outlet 16.

[0044] Some of the liquid described above deviates from either of the channels FLa or FLb and reaches, for example, the through-hole 19. This liquid is supplied to the inside of the battery through the through-hole 19. Therefore, some of the liquid that deviates from the channels FLa or FLb is supplied to the inside of the battery along the channel leading to the through-hole 19 (the unintended channel EFL).

[0045] (Cover section) Next, the configuration of the cover portion 3 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. The cover portion 3 is the part that prevents the liquid flowing through the main body portion 2 from leaking to the outside, and is located on the main surface 2a of the main body portion 2 in direction D1. For this reason, when the water supply valve 1 is attached to the storage battery, the cover portion 3 is located outside the storage battery. The cover portion 3 has a main portion (housing portion) 31 and an opening / closing portion 41.

[0046] The main portion 31 is a part that covers a portion of the main surface 2a of the main body portion 2 in a plan view, and is positioned in contact with the top surface 12b of the protruding portion 12 and the top surface 25 of the wall portion 18 of the main body portion 2. Therefore, the main portion 31 is located at least on the valve seat 15 and above the first outlet 16 (see Figure 4 above). The main portion 31 is also provided at the other end of the main body portion 2 opposite to the end facing the inside of the battery case 100A, and houses a part of the float 4 that moves the valve 53, which opens and closes the valve seat 15, in direction D1 in conjunction with the liquid surface of the electrolyte L inside the battery case 100A. The main portion 31 has a substantially semicircular shape, for example, with a portion missing that overlaps with the cylindrical portion 11d in a plan view. The main portion 31 has a bottom portion 32 positioned on the main body portion 2 and a raised portion 33 that rises from the bottom portion 32 along direction D1.

[0047] The bottom portion 32 is the base of the cover portion 3 and is the part that contacts the main body portion 2. The bottom portion 32 is in gapless contact with, for example, the second peripheral wall portion 11c of the peripheral wall 11 and a part of the cylindrical portion 11d of the peripheral wall 11. In this case, leakage of liquid located on the main surface 2a of the main body portion 2 to the outside is effectively prevented or suppressed. The bottom portion 32 is fixed to the main body portion 2 by various methods.

[0048] The raised portion 33 defines a space (not shown) that accommodates a part of the float 4 located on the main surface 2a (details will be described later). The raised portion 33 also supports the opening / closing portion 41 of the cover portion 3. The raised portion 33 has a top surface 33a facing the main body portion 2 in direction D1, a wall surface 33b rising from the top surface 33a toward the main body portion 2, a recessed portion 33c in which a part of the wall surface 33b is recessed along direction D1, a pair of bearing portions 33d provided on the top surface 33a, and a pair of side surfaces 33e, 33f intersecting in direction D2. The wall surface 33b extends along directions D1 and D2 and is the part closest to the opening / closing portion 41 in direction D3. When the opening / closing portion 41 is closed, the wall surface 33b is the opposing surface facing the opening / closing portion 41. The recessed portion 33c is a part that recesses from the bottom portion 32 towards the top surface 33a in direction D1, and overlaps with the gap S2 between the protruding portion 12 and the tip portion 21 of the wall portion 18. The bearing portion 33d is a part that rotatably supports the opening and closing portion 41.

[0049] The opening / closing section 41 is a part that is attached to the main body 2 so as to be openable and closable. When the opening / closing section 41 is closed, it covers the first peripheral wall portion 11b of the main body 2 and another part of the main surface 2a in a plan view. When the opening / closing section 41 is opened, an inspection device or the like can be inserted into the battery through the exposed second outlet 17. The opening / closing section 41 is, for example, a resin molded product, similar to the main body 31. In this case, the resin contained in the opening / closing section 41 may be the same as or different from the resin contained in the main body 31. The opening / closing section 41 has a lid portion 42, a rotating portion 43, and a handle 44.

[0050] The lid portion 42 is the main body of the opening / closing portion 41 and covers the first circumferential wall portion 11b and another part of the main surface 2a. The opening / closing portion 41 can be kept closed by the lid portion 42 engaging with the projection 11e located outside the first circumferential wall portion 11b. The lid portion 42 has a top surface 42a facing the main body portion 2 in direction D1, a wall surface (second wall portion) 42b that intersects in direction D3 and faces the wall surface 33b of the raised portion 33 in direction D3, a protrusion 42c provided to avoid interference with the first shaft 52 connected to the floating member 51 of the float 4, and a pair of side surfaces (second side surfaces) 42e, 42f that intersect in direction D2 and face the pair of side surfaces 33e, 33f of the raised portion 33 in direction D2.

[0051] The rotating part 43 is a portion that is rotatably mounted on the bearing portion 33d of the raised portion 33 and is integrated with the cover portion 42. The rotating part 43 has, for example, an axial shape that allows it to rotate on the bearing portion 33d. The pivot axis of the rotating part 43 extends in the direction D2 in which the wall surface 33b extends. The handle 44 is a protruding portion used when opening the opening / closing portion 41 and is provided on the other end side in direction D3.

[0052] In a plan view from direction D1, the wall surface 33b extends from the inside of the main body 2 toward the peripheral wall 11, which is the outer edge of the main body 2, to the outer edge end, and intersects with direction D3 which is perpendicular to direction D1.

[0053] A gap G1 is provided between wall surface 33b and wall surface 42b in a direction D3 opposite to each other. Here, gap G1 refers to a gap that has a distance at which no interfacial tension is generated between wall surface 33b and wall surface 42b, and is a gap with a distance that is appropriately calculated depending on the materials forming wall surface 33b and wall surface 42b, the type of liquid supplied as electrolyte L, etc. The size of gap G1 is such that no interfacial tension is generated when, for example, condensed moisture is interposed between wall surface 33b, which is formed from a resin material such as ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), and wall surface 42b, which is formed from a resin material such as AS (acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer), for example, 2 mm to 5 mm.

[0054] (float) Next, the configuration of the cover portion 3 will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 9. Figure 7 is a diagram of the float. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the valve seat in an open state, and Figure 9 is a diagram showing the valve seat in a closed state. In Figures 8 and 9, the cover portion 3 is omitted. As shown in Figures 7 to 9, the float 4 has a floating member 51, a first shaft 52 connected to the floating member 51, a valve 53 corresponding to the valve seat 15 of the main body portion 2, a second shaft 54 ​​connected to the valve 53, and a connecting portion 55 connecting the first shaft 52 and the second shaft 54. When the water supply valve 1 is installed in the storage battery, the floating member 51, a part of the first shaft 52, the valve 53, and a part of the second shaft 54 ​​are located inside the storage battery or inside the main body portion 2, while the other part of the first shaft 52, the other part of the second shaft 54, and the connecting portion 55 are located on the main surface 2a of the main body portion 2 and outside the storage battery.

[0055] The floating member 51 is a member that floats in the electrolyte L contained in the storage battery. Therefore, the floating member 51 exhibits a function that is linked to the liquid surface of the electrolyte L contained in the storage battery. In this embodiment, when the floating member 51 is linked to the liquid surface, the entire float 4 is also linked. The shape of the floating member 51 is not particularly limited.

[0056] The first shaft 52 is a member that extends in direction D1 when mounted on the main body 2 and passes through the through hole 19. The first shaft 52 is easily visible through the opening / closing part 41 (see Figure 2, etc.). Therefore, by checking the position of the first shaft 52, it is easy to determine whether or not liquid needs to be supplied to the battery.

[0057] As described above, the valve 53 is a component housed in the internal space 14 of the main body 2 and has a shape that allows it to fit into the recess 15a of the valve seat 15. The valve 53 opens and closes the valve seat 15 in conjunction with the floating member 51. As shown in Figure 8, when the main body 2 is attached to the storage battery 100 and the electrolyte L is not sufficiently contained, the valve 53 is spaced apart from the recess 15a, opening the valve seat 15. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 9, when the storage battery 100 is sufficiently filled with electrolyte L, the valve 53 is fitted into the recess 15a, closing the valve seat 15. In this embodiment, the valve 53 has a substantially hemispherical shape, but is not limited to this.

[0058] The second shaft 54 ​​is a member that extends in direction D1 when the float 4 is mounted on the main body 2, and passes through the valve seat 15. Unlike the first shaft 52, the second shaft 54 ​​is located inside the raised portion 33 (see Figure 3) of the cover portion 3. For this reason, the second shaft 54 ​​is less visible than the first shaft 52. The second shaft 54 ​​is molded integrally with the valve 53, but is not limited to this.

[0059] The connecting portion 55 transmits the displacement of the floating member 51 to the valve 53 and the second shaft 54. The valve 53 is linked to the floating member 51 by the connection of the first shaft 52 and the second shaft 54 ​​via the connecting portion 55. The connecting portion 55 is integrated with the first shaft 52 and has a gripping portion 55a that grips the second shaft 54, but is not limited to this. When the float 4 is mounted on the main body 2, a part of the connecting portion 55 passes through the gap S2 between the tip portion 21 and the protruding portion 12 of the wall portion 18 on the main surface 2a. When the battery is sufficiently filled with electrolyte L, this part is located in the recessed portion 33c of the raised portion 33 (see Figure 3).

[0060] (Effects and Benefits) In the water supply valve 1 according to the embodiment described above, liquid such as water supplied from the water inlet 13 to the internal space 14 which is a valve chamber reaches the main surface 2a of the main body 2 via the valve seat 15 which is in an open state. Then, the liquid flowing on the main surface 2a reaches the first outlet 16 or the second outlet 17, thereby supplying liquid to the storage battery. Here, the main surface 2a is provided with a wall portion 18 that is erected from the main body 2 and separates the first outlet 16 and the second outlet 17. The wall portion 18 has a tip portion 21 located in the center of the main surface 2a, a first side portion 22 extending from the tip portion 21 toward the first outlet 16, and a second side portion 23 extending from the tip portion 21 toward the second outlet 17. The tip portion 21 is located closer to the valve seat 15 than the first outlet 16 and the second outlet 17. Therefore, the liquid flowing from the valve seat 15 onto the main surface 2a is more likely to reach the tip portion 21 first at the wall portion 18. Furthermore, the liquid that reaches the tip portion 21 is more likely to flow along the first side portion 22 towards the first outlet 16, and then along the second side portion 23 towards the second outlet 17. Thus, even if the amount of water supplied per unit time increases, the liquid is less likely to flow on the main surface 2a of the main body portion 2 other than the intended flow paths FLa and FLb. As a result, the residue of liquid on the main surface 2a (for example, residue of liquid in the area on the opposite side of the through hole 19 via the extended portion 12c on the main surface 2a) is less likely to occur. Therefore, by using the water replenishment valve 1 according to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress problems during water replenishment.

[0061] In addition, in this embodiment, a gap S1 is provided between the extended portion 12c of the protruding portion 12 and the wall portion 18. As a result, any liquid that reaches the main surface 2a from the valve seat 15 and does not go towards the intended flow path FLa is more likely to go towards the intended flow path FLb through the gap S1. Therefore, the liquid that reaches the main surface 2a from the valve seat 15 is efficiently discharged at the first outlet 16 or the second outlet 17. Consequently, the liquid is less likely to overflow from the extended portion 12c, etc., and is less likely to accumulate in areas such as the region between the extended portion 12c and the first peripheral wall portion 11b on the main surface 2a. Therefore, since less liquid remains on the main surface 2a, problems after water replenishment caused by the liquid are less likely to occur.

[0062] In this embodiment, the main body 2 is located on the opposite side of the first outlet 16 via the valve seat 15 in a plan view, and has a projection 12 having a side wall 12a and a top surface 12b that rises from the main surface 2a. As a result, liquid attempting to flow to the opposite side of the first outlet 16 via the valve seat 15 in a plan view is blocked by the side wall 12a of the projection 12. This makes it easier to restrict the flow path of liquid on the main surface 2a to the intended shape.

[0063] In this embodiment, the main body 2 is provided on the main surface 2a and has a through hole 19 that penetrates the main body 2, spaced apart from the valve seat 15, the first outlet 16, the second outlet 17, the wall portion 18, and the protruding portion 12. The float 4 has a first shaft 52 that is connected to the floating member 51 and extends in direction D1 and passes through the through hole 19, a second shaft 54 ​​that is connected to the valve 53 and extends in direction D1 and passes through the valve seat 15, and a connecting portion 55 that connects the first shaft 52 and the second shaft 54. A part of the connecting portion 55 is located on the main surface 2a between the wall portion 18 and the protruding portion 12. Therefore, the movement of the float 4 can be restricted by the wall portion 18 and the protruding portion 12, so that the functions of the floating member 51 and the valve 53 included in the float 4 can be performed well.

[0064] In this embodiment, the projection 12 has an extension portion 12c that extends from the side wall 12a in a plan view and is erected from the main surface 2a. The extension portion 12c is spaced apart from the wall portion 18, and the tip portion 12e of the extension portion 12c extends toward the second side portion 23. As a result, liquid that reaches the projection 12 is not blocked by the extension portion 12c, but rather tends to flow along the extension portion 12c toward the second side portion 23. Consequently, it becomes easier to restrict the flow path of liquid on the main surface 2a to the intended shape, and the occurrence of liquid residue on the main surface 2a becomes less likely.

[0065] The water supply valve 1 according to this embodiment includes a cover portion 3 positioned in contact with the top surface 25 of the wall portion 18 and located on the valve seat 15. Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the outflow of liquid from the valve seat 15 to the main surface 2a of the main body portion 2 to the outside of the water supply valve 1.

[0066] In this embodiment, the tip surface 12g included in the tip portion 12e of the extended portion 12c is an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the main surface 2a. Therefore, liquid that reaches the protruding portion 12 is more likely to travel along the extended portion 12c toward the second side portion 23.

[0067] Water taps and lead-acid batteries equipped therewith according to one aspect of the present invention are, for example, those described below [1] to [8], which have been described in detail based on the above embodiments. [1] A main body having a main surface that is located outside the battery when it is attached to the battery, A float attached to the main body, A water supply tap for a storage battery, The main body is, A valve chamber provided inside the main body, A water inlet connecting the outside of the main body and the valve chamber, A valve seat provided on the main surface and communicating the outside of the main body and the valve chamber, The main surface is provided with a first outlet and a second outlet that are spaced apart from the valve chamber and the valve seat and penetrate the main body, It has a wall portion that is erected from the main surface and located between the first outlet and the second outlet, The float comprises a floating member that moves in conjunction with the liquid level of the electrolyte contained in the battery, and a valve located within the valve chamber that opens and closes the valve seat in conjunction with the floating member. Viewed from the direction in which the wall portion is erected, the wall portion has a tip portion located in the center of the main surface, a first side portion extending from the tip portion toward the first outlet, and a second side portion extending from the tip portion toward the second outlet. The valve seat is located closer to the tip than the first outlet and the second outlet. Water supply tap. [2] A main body having a main surface that is located outside the battery when it is attached to the battery, A float attached to the main body, A water supply tap for a storage battery, The main body is, A valve chamber provided inside the main body, A water inlet connecting the outside of the main body and the valve chamber, A valve seat provided on the main surface and communicating the outside of the main body and the valve chamber, The main surface is provided with a first outlet and a second outlet that are spaced apart from the valve chamber and the valve seat and penetrate the main body, It has a wall portion that is erected from the main surface and located between the first outlet and the second outlet, The float comprises a floating member that moves in conjunction with the liquid level of the electrolyte contained in the battery, and a valve located within the valve chamber that opens and closes the valve seat in conjunction with the floating member. Viewed from the direction in which the wall portion is erected, the wall portion has a tip portion located in the center of the main surface, a first side portion that guides a portion of the water supplied from the water inlet and which has reached the main surface via the valve chamber and valve seat from the tip portion to the first outlet, and a second side portion that guides another portion of the water from the tip portion to the second outlet. Water supply tap. [3] The water tap according to [1] or [2], wherein the main body is located on the opposite side of the first outlet via the valve seat when viewed from the vertical direction, and further has a projection having a side wall and a top surface that rises from the main surface. [4] The main body is provided on the main surface and has through holes that are spaced apart from the valve seat, the first outlet, the second outlet, the wall and the protrusion, and that penetrate the main body. The aforementioned float is A first shaft is connected to the floating member and extends in the vertical direction, and passes through the through hole, A second shaft is connected to the valve and extends in the vertical direction, passing through the valve seat, It has a connecting part that connects the first axis and the second axis, A portion of the connecting portion is located on the main surface between the wall portion and the protruding portion, as described in [3]. [5] The protruding portion further has an extending portion that extends from the side wall and is erected from the main surface when viewed from the direction of vertical installation, The extended portion is spaced apart from the wall portion. The tip of the extended portion extends toward the second side portion, as described in [3] or [4]. [6] The tip surface included in the tip of the extended portion is an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the main surface, as described in [5]. [7] A water supply valve according to any one of [1] to [6], further comprising a cover portion arranged in contact with the top surface of the wall portion and located on the valve seat. A lead-acid battery equipped with a water supply valve as described in any of [8][1] to [7].

[0068] However, one aspect of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, modifications, and [1] to [8], and various other modifications are possible. For example, in the above embodiments, the cover portion has a main portion and an opening / closing portion, but is not limited thereto. For example, the cover portion may consist only of a main portion.

[0069] In the above embodiment, the main body and the cover are separate components, but the invention is not limited to this. The main body may be integrated with at least a part of the cover. For example, the main part of the cover is integrated with the main body. In this case, the main body and the cover may be integrally molded. For example, the main body is integrated with the wall and has a cover located on the valve seat. Even in this case, the same effects and advantages as in the above embodiment are achieved. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 1…Water supply valve, 2…Main body, 2a…Main surface, 3…Cover section, 4…Float, 5…First structure, 6…Second structure, 11…Surrounding wall, 11a…Earth platform section, 11b…First surrounding wall section, 11c…Second surrounding wall section, 11d…Cylinder section, 11e…Protrusion, 12…Protrusion, 12a…Side wall, 12b…Top surface, 12c…Extension section, 12d…Base, 12e…Tip section, 12g…Tip surface, 13…Water inlet, 14…Internal space (bencha), 15…Bezel, 16…First outlet, 17…Second outlet 18…wall, 19…through hole, 21…aperture, 22…first side, 23…second side, 25…top surface, 31…main part, 32…bottom, 33…protrusion, 33a…top surface, 33b…wall, 33c…submerged part, 33d…shaft receiving part, 41…opening and closing part, 42…cover, 43…returning part, 44…handle, 51…floating part, 52…first shaft, 53…en, 54…second shaft, 55…connection part, 100…battery, FLa, FLb…flow path, L…electrolyte, S1, S2…gap, SF…inclined part.

Claims

1. A main body having a main surface that is located outside the battery when it is attached to the battery, A float attached to the main body, A water supply tap for a storage battery, The main body is, A valve chamber provided inside the main body, A water inlet connecting the outside of the main body and the valve chamber, A valve seat provided on the main surface and communicating the outside of the main body and the valve chamber, The main surface is provided with a first outlet and a second outlet, which are spaced apart from the valve chamber and the valve seat and penetrate the main body, It has a wall portion that is erected from the main surface and located between the first outlet and the second outlet, The float comprises a floating member that moves in conjunction with the liquid level of the electrolyte contained in the battery, and a valve located within the valve chamber that opens and closes the valve seat in conjunction with the floating member. Viewed from the direction in which the wall portion is erected, the wall portion has a tip portion located in the center of the main surface, a first side portion extending from the tip portion toward the first outlet, and a second side portion extending from the tip portion toward the second outlet. The tip portion is located closer to the valve seat than the first outlet and the second outlet. Water supply tap.

2. A main body having a main surface that is located outside the battery when it is attached to the battery, A float attached to the main body, A water supply tap for a storage battery, The main body is, A valve chamber provided inside the main body, A water inlet connecting the outside of the main body and the valve chamber, A valve seat provided on the main surface and communicating the outside of the main body and the valve chamber, The main surface is provided with a first outlet and a second outlet, which are spaced apart from the valve chamber and the valve seat and penetrate the main body, It has a wall portion that is erected from the main surface and located between the first outlet and the second outlet, The float comprises a floating member that moves in conjunction with the liquid level of the electrolyte contained in the battery, and a valve located within the valve chamber that opens and closes the valve seat in conjunction with the floating member. Viewed from the direction in which the wall portion is erected, the wall portion has a tip portion located in the center of the main surface, a first side portion that guides a portion of the water supplied from the water inlet and which has reached the main surface via the valve chamber and valve seat from the tip portion to the first outlet, and a second side portion that guides another portion of the water from the tip portion to the second outlet. Water supply tap.

3. The water replenishment tap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the main body portion is located on the opposite side of the first outlet via the valve seat when viewed from the vertical direction, and further has a protruding portion having a side wall and a top surface that rises from the main surface.

4. The main body is provided on the main surface and has through holes that are spaced apart from the valve seat, the first outlet, the second outlet, the wall portion and the protruding portion, and that penetrate the main body. The aforementioned float is A first shaft is connected to the floating member and extends in the vertical direction, and passes through the through hole, A second shaft is connected to the valve and extends in the vertical direction, and through which the valve seat is inserted, It has a connecting part that connects the first axis and the second axis, The water tap according to claim 3, wherein a part of the connecting portion is located on the main surface between the wall portion and the protruding portion.

5. The aforementioned protruding portion further has an extending portion that extends from the side wall and rises from the main surface when viewed from the direction of vertical installation, The extended portion is spaced apart from the wall portion. The tip of the extended portion extends toward the second side portion, as described in claim 3.

6. The water tap according to claim 5, wherein the tip surface included in the tip of the extended portion is an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the main surface.

7. The water replenishment tap according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a cover portion positioned in contact with the top surface of the wall portion and located on the valve seat.

8. A lead-acid battery comprising a water supply valve as described in claim 7.

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