Check valves and machine tools

Abstract

This technology provides the ability to switch between two flow paths using a single valve body. [Solution] The valve 5 comprises a main body 10 having a first passage F1 and a second passage F2 formed inside it, a valve chamber SP formed inside the main body to connect the first passage and the second passage, and a valve body 20 provided inside the valve chamber. The valve body is configured to be movable between a first position that blocks the second passage and opens the first passage, and a second position that blocks the first passage and opens the second passage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a check valve and a machine tool.

Background Art

[0002] As a mechanism for preventing the reverse flow of fluid, a check valve is known. In this regard, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 09-229215 (Patent Document 1) discloses a check valve used in a water softener that requires switching of a plurality of flow paths.

[0003] The check valve has a plurality of valve chambers each accommodating a valve seat and a valve body. The check valve also includes a casing body forming a main body flow path communicating with each valve chamber and a lid member forming a lid portion flow path corresponding to each valve chamber.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The check valve disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a valve body and a valve seat for each valve chamber. Each valve body prevents only the reverse flow in the corresponding flow path. That is, even if there are a plurality of flow paths, the valve bodies corresponding to the respective flow paths are provided independently, and one valve body does not switch a plurality of flow paths.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the problems described above. An object in one aspect is to provide a check valve capable of switching two flow paths with one valve body. An object in another aspect is to provide a machine tool including the check valve.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] One example of the present disclosure provides a valve. The valve comprises a body having a first flow path formed inside and a second flow path formed inside; a valve chamber formed inside the body to connect the first flow path and the second flow path; and a valve body provided inside the valve chamber. The valve body is configured to be movable between a first position that blocks the second flow path and opens the first flow path and a second position that blocks the first flow path and opens the second flow path.

[0008] In one example of this disclosure, the first channel is for liquids, and the second channel is for gases.

[0009] In one example of the present disclosure, the valve further comprises an elastic body that biases the valve body toward the second position. The valve body is configured to block the first flow path when the liquid is not supplied to the first flow path, and to move toward the first position when the liquid is supplied to the first flow path and receives pressure from the liquid.

[0010] In one example of this disclosure, the main body is formed to extend along the axial direction. The first flow path includes a first upstream flow path connected to the upstream side of the valve chamber and a plurality of first downstream flow paths connected to the downstream side of the valve chamber. The second flow path includes a plurality of second upstream flow paths connected to the upstream side of the valve chamber and a second downstream flow path connected to the downstream side of the valve chamber. In a cross-sectional view of the main body perpendicular to the axial direction, and in a cross-sectional view of the portion where the first upstream flow path branches into the plurality of first downstream flow paths, the first upstream flow path is located inside the plurality of second upstream flow paths. In a cross-sectional view of the main body perpendicular to the axial direction, and in a cross-sectional view of the portion where the plurality of second upstream flow paths merge into the second downstream flow paths, the second downstream flow paths are located inside the plurality of first downstream flow paths.

[0011] In one example of this disclosure, a first valve seat surface is formed on the inner wall constituting the first flow path, where the valve body sits to block the first flow path. A second valve seat surface is formed on the inner wall constituting the second flow path, where the valve body sits to block the second flow path.

[0012] In one example of this disclosure, a first inlet for the first channel and a second inlet for the second channel are formed on one end face of the main body in the axial direction. A first outlet for the first channel and a second outlet for the second channel are formed on the other end face of the main body in the axial direction.

[0013] In one example of this disclosure, the liquid is a coolant.

[0014] In one example of this disclosure, a machine tool equipped with the above-mentioned valve is provided.

[0015] In one example of this disclosure, the machine tool comprises a coolant supply source, a gas supply source, and a fluid discharge mechanism. The inlet of the first flow path is connected to the coolant supply source. The inlet of the second flow path is connected to the gas supply source. The outlets of the first flow path and the second flow path are connected to the discharge mechanism.

[0016] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description relating to the invention, which will be understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of an additive processing device. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the SLM (Selective Laser Melting) additive manufacturing process in chronological order. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view showing a check valve according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic front view showing a check valve according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view schematically showing a flow path in a state where the side surface of the check valve is seen through. [Figure 6] It is a cross-sectional view of the check valve along the line A-A shown in FIG. 4, and shows a cross-section of the check valve in a gas flow state. [Figure 7] It is a cross-sectional view of the check valve along the line A-A shown in FIG. 4, and shows a cross-section of the check valve in a liquid flow state. [Figure 8] It shows a cross-sectional view of the check valve along the line B1-B1 shown in FIG. 4 as viewed from the upstream side. [Figure 9] It shows a cross-sectional view of the check valve along the line B2-B2 shown in FIG. 4 as viewed from the downstream side. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing an example of a drive mechanism of an additional processing device. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a control unit. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing a coolant supply mechanism by a machine tool.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, each embodiment according to the present invention will be described while referring to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. In addition, each embodiment and each modification described below may be selectively combined as appropriate

[0019] <A. Additional Processing Device 100> The shaping accuracy of the additional processing device has been improving in recent years. The said additional processing device can shape a workpiece with a complex shape that could not be manufactured by cutting. Therefore, the inventors devised a check valve 5 (see FIG. 3) having a structure in which two flow paths are switched by one valve body using the additional processing device.

[0020] Examples of molding methods using additive manufacturing equipment include the SLM method and the DED method. Before describing the check valve 5, the SLM method additive manufacturing equipment will be described below.

[0021] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the additive processing apparatus 100. For the sake of explanation, the vertical direction will also be referred to as the "Z' axis direction" below. Furthermore, the downward direction, which corresponds to the direction of gravity, will be referred to as the positive side of the Z' axis direction, and the upward direction will be referred to as the negative side of the Z' axis direction.

[0022] Furthermore, the direction on the horizontal plane perpendicular to the Z' axis is also referred to as the "X' axis direction." The X' axis direction corresponds to the left-right direction when the additive processing device 100 is viewed from the front. Also, the right direction when the additive processing device 100 is viewed from the front is also referred to as the positive X' axis direction, and the left direction when the additive processing device 100 is viewed from the front is also referred to as the negative X' axis direction.

[0023] Furthermore, the direction on the horizontal plane perpendicular to both the X'-axis and Z'-axis directions is also referred to as the "Y'-axis direction." In Figure 1, the Y'-axis direction indicates the front-to-back direction of the paper. Also, the back side of the additive processing device 100, when viewed from the front, is referred to as the positive Y'-axis direction, and the front side of the additive processing device 100 is referred to as the negative Y'-axis direction.

[0024] The additive processing device 100 is a processing machine capable of stacking workpieces using the SLM method. The additive processing device 100 irradiates a spread-out metal powder material with laser light, locally melting and solidifying the metal powder material to stack the workpieces.

[0025] The additive processing device 100 includes a lifting mechanism 130, a lifting mechanism 140, a recoater 150, and a laser irradiation mechanism 160.

[0026] Furthermore, a storage area AR1 for metal powder material PM is provided inside the additive processing apparatus 100. The metal powder material PM is the material of the workpiece W. Any metal powder that can be melted by laser light LS can be used as the metal powder material PM.

[0027] The storage area AR1 is partitioned, for example, by a lifting mechanism 130 and a wall surface 132. The wall surface 132 is configured to surround the upper surface of the lifting mechanism 130 when viewed from above.

[0028] The upper surface of the lifting mechanism 130 forms the floor surface of the storage area AR1. The upper surface of the lifting mechanism 130 is also configured to move up and down in the Z' axis direction. The lifting mechanism 130 is moved up and down by, for example, the motor 212Z (see Figure 10), which will be described later. The top of the storage area AR1 is open, and when the lifting mechanism 130 rises, the metal powder material PM is pushed out of the storage area AR1.

[0029] Furthermore, a processing area AR2 for the workpiece W is provided inside the additional processing device 100. The processing area AR2 is partitioned, for example, by a lifting mechanism 140 and a wall surface 142. The wall surface 142 is configured to surround the upper surface of the lifting mechanism 140 when viewed from above.

[0030] The upper surface of the lifting mechanism 140 forms the floor surface of the machining area AR2. The lifting mechanism 140 is configured to move up and down in the Z' axis direction. The lifting mechanism 140 is moved up and down by, for example, the motor 222Z (see Figure 10), which will be described later. The upper part of the machining area AR2 is open.

[0031] A base plate 144 may be mounted on the upper surface of the lifting mechanism 140. The base plate 144 may be fixed to the lifting mechanism 140 by, for example, a chuck mechanism (not shown). The base plate 144 is fixed to the lifting mechanism 140 before the start of the lamination process by the additive processing device 100.

[0032] The recoater 150 is configured to spread the metal powder material PM extruded from the storage area AR1 into the processing area AR2. The recoater 150 is composed of blades or rollers, etc.

[0033] More specifically, the recoater 150 extends in the Y' axis direction. The width of the recoater 150 in the Y' axis direction is longer than the width of the storage area AR1 in the Y' axis direction, and also longer than the width of the processing area AR2 in the Y' axis direction.

[0034] Furthermore, the recoater 150 is configured to be drivable in the X' axis direction. The recoater 150 is driven, for example, by the motor 232X (see Figure 10), which will be described later. In a top view, the recoater 150 is configured to pass through at least the storage area AR1 and the processing area AR2. When the recoater 150 is driven in the negative direction of the X' axis direction, the metal powder material PM extruded from the top surface of the storage area AR1 is transported to the processing area AR2. In this way, the metal powder material PM is supplied from the storage area AR1 to the processing area AR2.

[0035] The laser irradiation mechanism 160 irradiates the metal powder material PM, which is spread in the processing area AR2, with laser light LS to selectively melt and solidify the metal powder material PM. For example, the laser irradiation mechanism 160 consists of a laser oscillator, an optical system, and a laser scanner.

[0036] A laser oscillator is a device that generates high-energy laser light. The optical system focuses the laser light generated by the laser oscillator to produce laser light LS. For example, a galvanometer scanner is used as a laser scanner. A galvanometer scanner consists of a galvanometer mirror for deflecting the laser light LS in the X' axis direction and a galvanometer mirror for deflecting the laser light LS in the Y' axis direction. The additive processing device 100 irradiates the laser light LS to any position on the X'Y' plane by controlling the drive of the two galvanometer mirrors.

[0037] Next, the SLM (Steel-Laminated Manufacturing) process will be explained with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the SLM process in chronological order.

[0038] In step S1, the additive processing device 100 raises the lifting mechanism 130. The lifting range of the lifting mechanism 130 is preset. When the lifting mechanism 130 rises, the metal powder material PM is pushed out from the storage area AR1.

[0039] Also, the additive processing device 100 lowers the lifting mechanism 140. The lowering range of the lifting mechanism 140 is preset. This lowering range corresponds to the thickness of one layer of the workpiece W. As a result, a space without the metal powder material PM is formed in the processing area AR2.

[0040] In step S2, the additive processing device 100 drives the recoater 150, which is waiting at a predetermined position, in the negative X'-axis direction. At this time, the additive processing device 100 drives the recoater 150 so that the recoater 150 passes through the storage area AR1 and the processing area AR2 in order in a top view. As a result, the recoater 150 evenly spreads the metal powder material PM pushed out from the storage area AR1 over the processing area AR2. Then, the additive processing device 100 returns the recoater 150 to the predetermined standby position.

[0041] In step S3, the additive processing device 100 controls the laser irradiation mechanism 160 according to the additive processing program and irradiates the laser light LS onto the metal powder material PM spread over the processing area AR2. At this time, the laser light LS is irradiated onto the metal powder material PM on the base plate 144. The metal powder material PM at the irradiated portion of the laser light LS melts and solidifies. As a result, the first layer SL1 of the workpiece W is formed.

[0042] Thereafter, the additive processing device 100 repeats the processes of steps S1 to S3 to shape a workpiece W with a predetermined shape on the base plate 144 mounted on the floor surface of the processing area AR2. The workpiece W to be shaped is, for example, the check valve 5 described later.

[0043] <B. Overview of the check valve 5> Next, with reference to Figures 3 to 5, the check valve 5 formed by the additive processing device 100 will be described.

[0044] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view showing a check valve 5 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic front view showing a check valve 5 according to the embodiment. Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view showing the flow paths F1 and F2 as seen through the side of the check valve 5. In Figure 5, different types of hatching are applied to the flow paths F1 and F2, respectively.

[0045] The shape of the check valve 5 is arbitrary. In the examples in Figures 3 and 4, the check valve 5 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The check valve 5 comprises a body 10 that forms the external appearance of the check valve 5.

[0046] The main body 10 consists of a base portion 10A located on the upstream side and a cover portion 10B located on the downstream side. The base portion 10A and the cover portion 10B may be integrally constructed or may be separable.

[0047] Inside the main body 10, a flow path F1 for liquid LI and a flow path F2 for gaseous AI are formed. The check valve 5 can selectively discharge either liquid LI or gaseous AI by switching between flow paths F1 and F2. The structure for switching between flow paths F1 and F2 will be described later.

[0048] In the following, using the direction of the fluid flowing through check valve 5 as a reference, the side from which the fluid flows in will also be referred to as the "upstream side," and the side from which the fluid flows out will also be referred to as the "downstream side."

[0049] The main body 10 has an upstream end face EU (first end face) and a downstream end face ED (second end face). End faces EU and ED correspond to both end faces of the check valve 5 in the direction of axis AX. Axis AX is an axis that extends from one end face to the other of the main body 10 in the direction of the fluid flow through the check valve 5 and passes through the center of the main body 10.

[0050] On the upstream end face EU, an inlet IN1 corresponding to the upstream end of the flow path F1 and an inlet IN2 corresponding to the upstream end of the flow path F2 are formed. Liquid LI flows in from the inlet IN1. The liquid LI includes, for example, a coolant used during the machining of the machine tool 200 (see FIG. 12). Gas AI is supplied from the inlet IN2. The gas AI includes nitrogen, air, etc. used during the machining of the machine tool 200.

[0051] On the other hand, on the downstream end face ED, an outlet OUT1 corresponding to the downstream end of the flow path F1 and an outlet OUT2 corresponding to the downstream end of the flow path F2 are formed. The liquid LI discharged from the outlet OUT1 and the gas AI discharged from the outlet OUT2 are selectively switched via the check valve 5.

[0052] <Definition of the C direction> For the sake of convenience in explanation, a coordinate system based on the check valve 5 is defined. The coordinate system is defined by the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis.

[0053] The Z-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the direction from one of the end faces EU and ED to the other. In the example of FIG. 4, the Z-axis direction corresponds to the vertical direction. Also, the upstream side in the Z-axis direction is also referred to as the positive side of the Z-axis direction, and the downstream side in the Z-axis direction is also referred to as the negative side of the Z-axis direction.

[0054] Also, the direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction is also referred to as the "X-axis direction". In the example of FIG. 4, the X-axis direction corresponds to the left-right direction. Also, one side in the X-axis direction is also referred to as the positive side of the X-axis direction, and the other side in the X-axis direction is also referred to as the negative side of the X-axis direction. In the example of FIG. 4, the positive side of the X-axis direction corresponds to the right side, and the negative side of the X-axis direction corresponds to the left side.

[0055] Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to both the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is also referred to as the "Y-axis direction". In the example of FIG. 4, the Y-axis direction corresponds to the front-back direction. Also, one side in the Y-axis direction is also referred to as the positive side of the Y-axis direction, and the other side in the Y-axis direction is also referred to as the negative side of the Y-axis direction. In the example of FIG. 4, the positive side of the Y-axis direction corresponds to the front side, and the negative side of the Y-axis direction corresponds to the back side.

[0056] Note that the coordinate system with the check valve 5 as a reference may be the same as or different from the X'Y'Z' coordinate system (see FIG. 1) with the additional processing device 100 as a reference.

[0057] <D. Internal Structure of Check Valve 5> The check valve 5 selectively discharges either the liquid LI or the gas AI by switching between the flow path F1 for the liquid LI and the flow path F2 for the gas AI.

[0058] Hereinafter, the flow path state of the check valve 5 in which the flow path F1 for the liquid LI is opened and the flow path F2 for the gas AI is blocked is also referred to as the "liquid flow state". On the other hand, the flow path state of the check valve 5 in which the flow path F1 for the liquid LI is blocked and the flow path F2 for the gas AI is opened is also referred to as the "gas flow state".

[0059] While referring to FIG. 5 described above, FIGS. 6 and 7 will be referred to for an explanation of the internal structure of the check valve 5 for switching between the liquid flow state and the gas flow state.

[0060] FIGS. 6 and 7 are cross-sectional views showing a cross-section of the check valve 5 along the line A-A shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 shows a cross-section of the check valve 5 in the gas flow state. FIG. 7 shows a cross-section of the check valve 5 in the liquid flow state. Note that the hatching shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 indicates the cross-section.

[0061] In the flow path F1 and the flow path F2, a valve body chamber SP of a space is formed in the middle of each of the flow path F1 and the flow path F2. The valve body chamber SP is formed so as to connect between the flow path F1 and the flow path F2 inside the main body 10. That is, the valve body chamber SP is a region where the flow path F1 and the flow path F2 are spatially connected. A valve body 20 is provided in the valve body chamber SP. The flow path F1 and the flow path F2 are spatially separated by the valve body 20. In other words, the liquid LI flowing through the flow path F1 does not flow into the flow path F2 due to the valve body 20. On the other hand, the gas AI flowing through the flow path F2 does not flow into the flow path F1 due to the valve body 20.

[0062] The valve body 20 is configured to be movable within the valve chamber SP. The valve body 20 is configured to be movable between a first position in which the flow path F2 is blocked and the flow path F1 is opened, and a second position in which the flow path F1 is blocked and the flow path F2 is opened. By moving to the first position, the valve body 20 enters a liquid flow state in which the flow path F2 is blocked and the flow path F1 is opened, and by moving to the second position, it enters a gas flow state in which the flow path F1 is blocked and the flow path F2 is opened. In this way, the valve body 20 is configured to switch the flow state between a liquid flow state and a gas flow state by moving within the valve chamber SP.

[0063] This allows switching between the liquid LI flow path F1 and the gaseous AI flow path F2 to be achieved with a single valve body 20, eliminating the need to individually provide multiple valve bodies or switching valves. As a result, the configuration of the check valve 5 can be simplified. Consequently, the number of parts and assembly man-hours can be reduced compared to conventional methods.

[0064] More specifically, the valve body 20 is configured to move along the axis AX direction within the valve chamber SP. An elastic body 25 is provided in the valve chamber SP. The elastic body 25 is, for example, a spring. The elastic body 25 is configured to bias the valve body 20 toward the second position. The valve body 20 is configured to block the flow path F1 when no liquid is supplied to the flow path F1, and to move toward the first position when liquid is supplied to the flow path F1 by receiving pressure from the liquid.

[0065] In other words, the elastic body 25 is configured to bias the valve body 20 to one side in the axial AX direction (i.e., direction DU) so as to block the flow path F1 when the liquid LI is not flowing through it. On the other hand, the valve body 20 is configured to move to the other side in the axial AX direction when pressure is received from the liquid LI flowing through the flow path F1. In the examples of Figures 6 and 7, the elastic body 25 is biased in direction DU when a gas is flowing and is pushed up in direction DD, which is opposite to direction DU, when a liquid is flowing.

[0066] As a result, when liquid LI is not flowing through the flow path F1, the check valve 5 maintains a gas flow state by the biasing force of the elastic body 25. On the other hand, when the pressure of liquid LI flowing through the flow path F1 exceeds a predetermined value, the check valve 5 switches the flow state from a gas flow state to a liquid flow state by moving the valve body 20 in the direction DD against the biasing force of the elastic body 25. Therefore, the check valve 5 can automatically switch whether to open flow path F1 or flow path F2 in accordance with the pressure of liquid LI flowing through flow path F1, without providing an external actuator or electrical control signal. This makes it possible to achieve stable switching operation while simplifying the configuration.

[0067] Preferably, a seating surface SSU is formed on the upstream side of the valve body 20. Furthermore, a valve seat surface VSU (first valve seat surface) is formed on the inner wall constituting the flow path F1, on which the seating surface SSU sits. The seating surface SSU is, for example, a substantially annular plane extending continuously around the axis AX. The valve seat surface VSU is a substantially annular plane formed to face the seating surface SSU in the direction of the axis AX. The seating surface SSU contacts the valve seat surface VSU when the elastic body 25 is biasing the valve body 20 in the direction DU. In this state, the flow path F1 is blocked and the flow path F2 is opened. As a result, the gas AI flows through the flow path F2.

[0068] The valve body 20 has a bottom surface BS that is subjected to the flow pressure of the liquid LI. The bottom surface BS is the region inside the seating surface SSU of the valve body 20. When the seating surface SSU and the valve seat surface VSU are in contact, the bottom surface BS does not come into contact with the valve seat surface VSU.

[0069] Furthermore, a seating surface SSD is formed on the downstream side of the valve body 20. Also, a valve seat surface VSD is formed on the inner wall constituting the flow path F2, on which the seating surface SSD sits. The seating surface SSD is formed, for example, as a substantially annular plane that extends continuously around the axis AX. The valve seat surface VSD is a substantially annular plane formed to face the seating surface SSD in the direction of axis AX. When liquid LI flows into the flow path F1 and the pressure acting on the bottom surface BS of the valve body 20 exceeds the biasing force of the elastic body 25, the valve body 20 moves in the direction DD. In this state, the flow path F2 is blocked and the flow path F1 is opened. As a result, liquid LI flows through the flow path F1.

[0070] In the above description, we explained an example in which the valve body 20 is moved using the spring force of the elastic body 25 and the fluid pressure of the liquid LI, but the means of applying force to the valve body 20 are not limited to this.

[0071] As another example, the valve body 20 may be configured to move in direction DD by receiving pressure from the liquid LI flowing through the flow path F1, and to move in direction DU by receiving pressure from the gas AI flowing through the flow path F2. That is, the valve body 20 moves within the valve chamber SP due to the pressure from the liquid LI and the pressure from the gas AI. In this way, the check valve 5 may be configured to switch between a liquid flow state and a gas flow state using the flow pressure from the liquid LI and the atmospheric pressure from the gas AI.

[0072] Furthermore, in the example described above, we explained a case where channel F1 is for liquid and channel F2 is for gas, but either gas or liquid may flow through channel F1 and channel F2, respectively. As another example, both channel F1 and channel F2 may be for gas. Alternatively, both channel F1 and channel F2 may be for liquid. Alternatively, channel F1 may be for gas and channel F2 may be for liquid.

[0073] Furthermore, the check valve 5 does not need to completely prevent backflow, and there may be leakage within an allowable range. For example, even in the gas flow state, a small amount of liquid can flow through the flow path F1, and even in the liquid flow state, a small amount of gas can flow through the flow path F2. Thus, the check valve 5 in this embodiment is not limited to a strict check valve and may be a valve.

[0074] <E. Flow paths F1, F2> Continuing to refer to FIGS. 5 to 7 and referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the structure of the flow paths F1 and F2 will be described in more detail.

[0075] FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the check valve 5 along the line B1-B1 shown in FIG. 4, viewed from the upstream side. FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the check valve 5 along the line B2-B2 shown in FIG. 4, viewed from the downstream side. For ease of understanding, the valve body 20 is not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0076] For the convenience of explanation, the portion of the flow path F1 connected to the upstream side from the valve body chamber SP is also referred to as the upstream flow path F1U (first upstream flow path), and the portion of the flow path F1 connected to the downstream side from the valve body chamber SP is also referred to as the downstream flow path F1D (first downstream flow path). Also, the portion of the flow path F2 connected to the upstream side from the valve body chamber SP is also referred to as the upstream flow path F2U (second upstream flow path), and the portion of the flow path F2 connected to the downstream side from the valve body chamber SP is also referred to as the downstream flow path F2D (second downstream flow path).

[0077] The upstream flow path F1U is the path from the inlet IN1 to the valve body chamber SP. The upstream flow path F1U branches into a plurality of downstream flow paths F1D through the valve body chamber SP. In the example of FIG. 8, the downstream flow path F1D is shown by three flow paths. Each of the downstream flow paths F1D is connected to the outlet OUT1. Thereby, the liquid LI flows in the order of inlet IN1 → upstream flow path F1U → valve body chamber SP → downstream flow path F1D → outlet OUT1.

[0078] As the flow path F2 proceeds downstream from the inlet IN2, it branches into multiple upstream flow paths F2U. In the example in Figure 8, the upstream flow paths F2U are shown as three separate paths. Each of the upstream flow paths F2U is connected to a valve chamber SP, and via the valve chamber SP, they merge into a single downstream flow path F2D. The downstream flow path F2D is connected to the outlet OUT2. As a result, the gas AI flows in the following order: inlet IN2 → upstream flow path F2U → valve chamber SP → downstream flow path F2D → outlet OUT2.

[0079] The flow paths F1 and F2 are formed to intersect each other via the valve chamber SP. More specifically, as shown in Figure 8, in a cross-sectional view of the main body 10 perpendicular to the axis AX, and in a cross-sectional view of the portion where the upstream flow path F1U branches into multiple downstream flow paths F1D, the upstream flow path F1U is located inside the multiple upstream flow paths F2U. That is, the upstream flow path F1U is formed on the central side of the main body 10 as an annular or circular flow path that is approximately concentric with the axis AX, and each of the upstream flow paths F2U is located radially outward from the upstream flow path F1U. Each of the upstream flow paths F2U is formed at equal intervals along the circumferential direction centered on the axis AX.

[0080] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, in a cross-sectional view of the main body 10 perpendicular to the axis AX, and in a cross-sectional view of the portion where multiple upstream channels F2U merge into a downstream channel F2D, the downstream channel F2D is located inside the multiple downstream channels F1D. That is, the downstream channel F2D is formed on the central side of the main body 10 as an annular or circular channel that is approximately concentric with axis AX, and each of the downstream channels F1D is located radially outward from the downstream channel F2D. In the example in Figure 9, each of the downstream channels F1D is formed at equal intervals along the circumferential direction centered on axis AX.

[0081] As described above, the upstream channel F1U is located inside each of the upstream channels F2U on the upstream side of the valve body chamber SP. As a result, the check valve 5 can guide the liquid LI introduced from the inlet IN1 to the valve body chamber SP in an aggregated state. Consequently, the check valve 5 can efficiently apply the flow pressure of the liquid LI to the bottom surface BS of the valve body 20. That is, the check valve 5 can transmit the flow pressure of the liquid LI flowing through the channel F1 to the bottom surface BS without waste, making it easier to push up the valve body 20 in the direction DD.

[0082] <Drive mechanism of the additional processing device 100> Next, referring to FIG. 10, the drive mechanism in the additional processing device 100 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the drive mechanism of the additional processing device 100.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 10, the additional processing device 100 includes a control unit 50, the above-described lifting mechanisms 130 and 140, the above-described re-coater 150, the above-described laser irradiation mechanism 160, and drive units 210, 220, 230, and 240.

[0084] The control unit 50 controls various devices within the additional processing device 100. The device configuration of the control unit 50 is arbitrary. The control unit 50 may be composed of a single control unit or a plurality of control units. As an example, the control unit 50 includes at least one of a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) and a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).

[0085] The drive unit 210 is a drive mechanism for driving the above-described lifting mechanism 130. The drive unit 210 may be composed of a single drive unit or a plurality of drive units. In the example of FIG. 10, the drive unit 210 is composed of a motor driver 211Z and a motor 212Z.

[0086] The motor driver 211Z sequentially receives input of the target position for the lifting mechanism 130 from the control unit 50 and outputs a current corresponding to the target position to the motor 212Z. As a result, the motor 212Z moves the lifting mechanism 130 to any position in the Z' axis direction. The motor 212Z may be an AC motor, a stepping motor, a servo motor, or any other type of motor.

[0087] The drive unit 220 is a drive mechanism for driving the lifting mechanism 140 described above. The drive unit 220 may consist of a single drive unit or multiple drive units. In the example in Figure 10, the drive unit 220 consists of a motor driver 221Z and a motor 222Z.

[0088] The motor driver 221Z sequentially receives input of the target position for the lifting mechanism 140 from the control unit 50 and outputs a current corresponding to the target position to the motor 222Z. As a result, the motor 222Z moves the lifting mechanism 140 to any position in the Z' axis direction. The motor 222Z may be an AC motor, a stepping motor, a servo motor, or any other type of motor.

[0089] The drive unit 230 is a drive mechanism for driving the recoater 150 described above. The drive unit 230 may consist of a single drive unit or multiple drive units. In the example in Figure 10, the drive unit 230 consists of a motor driver 231X and a motor 232X.

[0090] The motor driver 231X sequentially receives input of a target position for the recoater 150 from the control unit 50 and outputs a current corresponding to the target position to the motor 232X. As a result, the motor 232X moves the recoater 150 to any position in the X' axis direction. The motor 232X may be an AC motor, a stepping motor, a servo motor, or any other type of motor.

[0091] The drive unit 240 is a drive mechanism for rotationally driving the galvanometric mirrors 162A and 162B in the laser irradiation mechanism 160. The drive unit 240 may be composed of a single drive unit or a plurality of drive units. In the example of FIG. 10, the drive unit 240 is composed of motor drivers 241A and 241B and motors 242A and 242B.

[0092] The motor driver 241A sequentially receives an input of the target rotation angle or the target rotation speed of the galvanometric mirror 162A centered on the X'-axis direction from the control unit 50, and outputs a current corresponding to the target rotation angle or the target rotation speed to the motor 242A. The motor 242A rotationally drives the galvanometric mirror 162A centered on the X'-axis direction. The additional processing device 100 can irradiate the laser light LS at an arbitrary position in the X'-axis direction by reflecting the laser light LS generated by the laser irradiation mechanism 160 with the galvanometric mirror 162A. The laser light LS reflected by the galvanometric mirror 162A is guided to the galvanometric mirror 162B.

[0093] The motor driver 241B sequentially receives an input of the target rotation angle or the target rotation speed of the galvanometric mirror 162B centered on the Y'-axis direction from the control unit 50, and outputs a current corresponding to the target rotation angle or the target rotation speed to the motor 242B. The motor 242B rotationally drives the galvanometric mirror 162B centered on the Y'-axis direction. The additional processing device 100 can irradiate the laser light LS at an arbitrary position in the Y'-axis direction by reflecting the laser light LS generated by the laser irradiation mechanism 160 with the galvanometric mirror 162B.

[0094] <G. Hardware Configuration of Control Unit 50> Next, referring to FIG. 11, the hardware configuration of the control unit 50 shown in FIG. 10 will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the control unit 50.

[0095] As described above, the control unit 50 may be a CNC or a PLC. Figure 11 shows the hardware configuration of the control unit 50 as a CNC.

[0096] The control unit 50 includes, for example, a control circuit 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a communication interface 104, and an auxiliary storage device 120. These components are connected to the internal bus 109.

[0097] The control circuit 101 is comprised of, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit may consist of, for example, at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.

[0098] The control circuit 101 controls the operation of the control unit 50 by executing various programs, such as the additive machining program 122. The additive machining program 122 is a program for fabricating the check valve 5 described above. Based on receiving an execution command for the additive machining program 122, the control circuit 101 reads the additive machining program 122 from the ROM 102 into the RAM 103. The RAM 103 functions as working memory and temporarily stores various data necessary for executing the additive machining program 122.

[0099] The communication interface 104 is an interface for enabling communication with various devices. The additive processing device 100 communicates, for example, with various drive units (for example, the drive units 210, 220, 230, 240, etc.) for performing additive processing on a workpiece via the communication interface 104.

[0100] The auxiliary storage device 120 is, for example, a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 120 stores an additional processing program 122, three-dimensional data 124, and the like. The additional processing program 122 is, for example, pre-generated from the three-dimensional data 124 of the check valve 5. The additional processing device 100 executes the additional processing program 122 to model the check valve 5 having the shape shown in the three-dimensional data 124.

[0101] Note that the storage locations of the additional processing program 122 and the three-dimensional data 124 are not limited to the auxiliary storage device 120, and may be stored in a storage area (for example, a cache memory) of the control circuit 101, the ROM 102, the RAM 1 A03, an external device (for example, a server), or the like.

[0102] Further, the additional processing program 122 may be provided not as a single program but as incorporated into a part of an arbitrary program. In this case, various processes according to the present embodiment are realized in cooperation with an arbitrary program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the gist of the additional processing program 122 according to the present embodiment. Furthermore, some or all of the functions provided by the additional processing program 122 may be realized by dedicated hardware. Furthermore, the control unit 50 may be configured in a form such as a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes a part of the processing of the additional processing program 122.

[0103] <H. Application Example of Check Valve 5> The above-described check valve 5 can be applied to various machines that need to switch the flow paths F1 and F2. As an example, the check valve 5 is applied to a machine tool.

[0104] Hereinafter, an example in which the check valve 5 is applied to a machine tool will be described with reference to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a coolant supply mechanism by a machine tool 200.

[0105] As used herein, "machine tool" is a concept that encompasses various devices equipped with the function of processing a workpiece. The machine tool 200 may be a horizontal machining center or a vertical machining center. Alternatively, the machine tool 200 may be a lathe, or other cutting machine, grinding machine, multi-tasking machine, 5-axis machining center, etc. Furthermore, the machine tool 200 is not limited to performing only subtractive machining. The machine tool 200 may perform additive machining in addition to subtractive machining.

[0106] As an example, the machine tool 200 includes a control device 201, a coolant tank 252, a motor driver 254, a motor 255, a pump 256, a gas supply source 264, a valve 266, and a discharge mechanism 270.

[0107] Inside the machine tool 200, there is a flow path FA through which a liquid LI, such as coolant, flows. One end of the flow path FA is connected to the coolant tank 252. The other end of the flow path FA is connected to the inlet IN1 (see Figure 3) of the check valve 5. Thus, the inlet IN1 is connected to the coolant tank 252, which is the coolant supply source.

[0108] Pump 256 is located in the flow path FA and pumps coolant from the coolant tank 252 into the flow path FA. The rotational speed of pump 256 is controlled by the control device 201. The coolant pumped by pump 256 is sent to the check valve 5 via the flow path FA.

[0109] More specifically, a motor 255 is connected to the pump 256. The motor 255 is driven by a motor driver 254. The motor driver 254 consists of a control circuit and an inverter, etc. The motor driver 254 receives a control signal input from the control device 201 and outputs an alternating current with a frequency corresponding to the control signal to the motor 255. This changes the rotational speed of the motor 255, and controls the flow rate of the coolant pumped into the flow path FA.

[0110] Furthermore, a flow path FB through which gas AI flows is provided inside the machine tool 200. One end of flow path FB is connected to a gas supply source 264. The other end of flow path FB is connected to the inlet IN2 (see Figure 3) of the check valve 5. Thus, inlet IN2 is connected to the gas supply source 264. The gas supply source 264 can be, for example, a compressor. The gas AI supplied from the gas supply source 264 flows into flow path FB.

[0111] Valve 266 is located in the flow path FB and regulates the flow of gas AI in the flow path FB. The opening and closing of valve 266 is switched according to a control command from the control device 201.

[0112] When valve 266 is closed, the flow of gas AI in the flow path FB is stopped. On the other hand, when valve 266 is open, gas AI is supplied from the gas supply source 264 to the flow path FB and sent to the check valve 5.

[0113] The check valve 5 and the discharge mechanism 270 are connected by the flow path FC. Flow path FC is shorter than flow path FA. Also, flow path FC is shorter than flow path FB.

[0114] More specifically, one end of the flow path FC is connected to the outlets OUT1 and OUT2 of the check valve 5 (see Figure 3). In other words, one flow path FC is provided for each of the two outlets OUT1 and OUT2. The other end of the flow path FC is connected to the discharge mechanism 270. Thus, the outlets OUT1 and OUT2 of the check valve 5 are connected to the discharge mechanism 270.

[0115] An example of the discharge mechanism 270 is a spindle 224. Various types of tools can be mounted on the spindle 224. In the example shown in Figure 12, a tool TL having a fluid passage L1 (first passage) formed inside is mounted on the spindle 224. The passage L1 extends from the connection surface between the tool TL and the spindle 224 to the tip of the tool TL and penetrates the tool TL along the axial direction of the spindle 224.

[0116] Furthermore, the discharge port of the through passage L1 formed within the tool TL is not limited to being formed on the base end face or tip end face of the tool TL, but may also be formed on the side surface of the tool TL, for example. In this case, a nozzle is provided at the discharge port. The check valve 5 described above is provided at the nozzle. The check valve 5 is provided, for example, as an attachment to the nozzle.

[0117] Furthermore, although the example in Figure 12 shows a tool TL having one discharge port, the tool TL may have multiple discharge ports. The diameter of the discharge port of the tool TL is, for example, 5 mm or less.

[0118] The through passage L1 is connected to the internal communication passage L2 of the spindle 224 when the tool TL is mounted on the spindle 224. That is, one end of the communication passage L2 is connected to the through passage L1. The other end of the communication passage L2 may be connected to the flow path FC. The check valve 5 may be connected directly to the communication passage L2 of the spindle 224 without going through the flow path FC.

[0119] Furthermore, as described above, the check valve 5 can switch between the liquid flow path F1 and the gas flow path F2 with a single valve body 20. As a result, the configuration of the check valve 5 can be simplified, and the check valve 5 can be mounted closer to the tip of the spindle 224. Therefore, the amount of coolant that drips from the check valve 5 to the tip of the tool TL can be reduced compared to conventional methods.

[0120] In the above explanation, the main shaft 224 was used as an example of the discharge mechanism 270, but the check valve 5 can also be applied to other discharge mechanisms 270.

[0121] As another example, the discharge mechanism 270 may be a nozzle that discharges fluid into the machining area of ​​the machine tool 200. The check valve 5 described above may be attached to various nozzles located within the machine tool 200. These nozzles may be located, for example, on the side or ceiling of the machining area. Furthermore, these nozzles may discharge fluid onto the bed of the machine tool 200 rather than onto the workpiece.

[0122] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0123] 5 Check valve, 10 Main body, 10A Base, 10B Cover, 20 Valve body, 25 Elastic body, 50 Control unit, 100 Additional processing device, 101 Control circuit, 102 ROM, 103 RAM, 104 Communication interface, 109 Internal bus, 120 Auxiliary storage device, 122 Additional processing program, 124 Three-dimensional data, 130 Lifting mechanism, 132 Wall surface, 140 Lifting mechanism, 142 Wall surface, 144 Base plate, 150 Recoater, 160 Laser irradiation mechanism, 162A Galvanometer mirror, 162B Galvanometer mirror, 200 Machine tool, 201 Control device, 210 Drive unit, 211Z Motor driver, 212Z Motor, 220 Drive unit, 221Z Motor driver, 222Z Motor, 224 Spindle, 230 Drive unit, 231X Motor driver, 232X Motor, 240 Drive unit, 241A Motor driver, 241B Motor driver, 242A Motor, 242B Motor, 252 Coolant tank, 254 Motor driver, 255 Motor, 256 Pump, 264 Gas supply source, 266 Valve, 270 Discharge mechanism, AI Gas, AR1 Storage area, AR2 Processing area, AX Axis, BS Bottom surface, DD Direction, DU Direction, ED End surface, EU End surface, F1 Flow path, F1D Downstream flow path, F1U Upstream flow path, F2 Flow path, F2D Downstream flow path, F2U Upstream flow path, FA Flow path, FB Flow path, FC Flow path, IN1 Inlet, IN2 Inlet, L1 Through passage, L2 Connecting passage, LI Liquid, LS Laser beam, OUT1 Outlet, OUT2 Outlet, PM metal powder material, SL1 layer, SP valve chamber, SSD seating surface, SSU seating surface, TL tool, VSD valve seating surface, VSU valve seating surface, W workpiece.

Claims

1. A main body having a first channel formed inside and a second channel formed inside, A valve chamber formed inside the main body to connect the first flow path and the second flow path, The valve body is provided within the valve chamber, The valve body is configured to be movable between a first position in which the second flow path is blocked and the first flow path is opened, and a second position in which the first flow path is blocked and the second flow path is opened. The inner wall constituting the first flow path is formed with a first valve seat surface that blocks the first flow path when the valve body is seated therein. A valve having a second valve seat surface formed on the inner wall constituting the second flow path, where the valve body sits to block the second flow path.

2. The first channel is for liquids, The valve according to claim 1, wherein the second flow path is for gas.

3. The valve further comprises an elastic body that biases the valve body toward the second position, The valve according to claim 2, wherein the valve body is configured to block the first flow path when the liquid is not supplied to the first flow path, and to move toward the first position when the liquid is supplied to the first flow path by receiving pressure from the liquid.

4. The main body is formed to extend along the axial direction, The first channel is, A first upstream flow path connected to the upstream side from the valve chamber, It includes a plurality of first downstream flow paths connected downstream from the valve chamber, The second channel is, Multiple second upstream passages connected to the upstream side from the valve chamber, It includes a second downstream flow path connected downstream from the valve chamber, In a cross-sectional view of the main body perpendicular to the axial direction, and in a cross-sectional view of the portion where the flow branches from the first upstream channel to the plurality of first downstream channels, the first upstream channel is located inside the plurality of second upstream channels. The valve according to claim 1, wherein in a cross-sectional view of the main body perpendicular to the axial direction, and in a cross-sectional view at the portion where the plurality of second upstream flow paths merge with the second downstream flow path, the second downstream flow path is located inside the plurality of first downstream flow paths.

5. A first inlet for the first flow path and a second inlet for the second flow path are formed on one end face of the main body in the axial direction. The valve according to claim 4, wherein a first outlet for the first flow path and a second outlet for the second flow path are formed on the other end face of the main body in the axial direction.

6. The valve according to claim 2, wherein the liquid is a coolant.

7. A body having a first channel formed inside and a second channel formed inside, A valve chamber formed inside the main body to connect the first flow path and the second flow path, The valve body is provided within the valve chamber, The valve body is configured to be movable between a first position in which the second flow path is blocked and the first flow path is opened, and a second position in which the first flow path is blocked and the second flow path is opened. The valve further comprises an elastic body that biases the valve body toward the second position, The valve body is configured to block the first flow path when no fluid is supplied to the first flow path, and to move toward the first position when the fluid is supplied to the first flow path by receiving pressure from the fluid.

8. A body having a first channel formed inside and a second channel formed inside, A valve chamber formed inside the main body to connect the first flow path and the second flow path, The valve body is provided within the valve chamber, The valve body is configured to be movable between a first position in which the second flow path is blocked and the first flow path is opened, and a second position in which the first flow path is blocked and the second flow path is opened. The main body is formed to extend along the axial direction, The first channel is, A first upstream flow path connected to the upstream side from the valve chamber, It includes a plurality of first downstream flow paths connected downstream from the valve chamber, The second channel is, Multiple second upstream passages connected to the upstream side from the valve chamber, It includes a second downstream flow path connected downstream from the valve chamber, In a cross-sectional view of the main body perpendicular to the axial direction, and in a cross-sectional view of the portion where the flow branches from the first upstream channel to the plurality of first downstream channels, the first upstream channel is located inside the plurality of second upstream channels. A valve in which, in a cross-sectional view of the main body perpendicular to the axial direction, and in a cross-sectional view of the portion where the plurality of second upstream flow passages merge with the second downstream flow passage, the second downstream flow passage is located inside the plurality of first downstream flow passages.

9. A body having a first channel formed inside and a second channel formed inside, A valve chamber formed inside the main body to connect the first flow path and the second flow path, The valve body is provided within the valve chamber, The valve body is configured to be movable between a first position in which the second flow path is blocked and the first flow path is opened, and a second position in which the first flow path is blocked and the second flow path is opened. The main body is formed to extend along the axial direction, A first inlet for the first flow path and a second inlet for the second flow path are formed on one end face of the main body in the axial direction. A valve having a first outlet for the first flow path and a second outlet for the second flow path formed on the other end face of the main body in the axial direction.

10. A machine tool comprising a valve according to any one of claims 1, 7, 8, or 9.

11. The aforementioned machine tool is Coolant supply source and Gas supply source, Equipped with a fluid discharge mechanism, The inlet of the first flow path is connected to the coolant supply source. The inlet of the second flow path is connected to the gas supply source. The machine tool according to claim 10, wherein the outlet of the first flow path and the outlet of the second flow path are connected to the discharge mechanism.

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