Fluid production device

Abstract

To provide a fluid control device capable of checking sealing while ensuring a stable sealing state.SOLUTION: A fluid control device 10 is equipped with a housing 11 connected to a channel configuring member 1 in a sealing manner, and a fluid control body 12 installed in the housing 11 in a non-interrupted state in a direction crossing the channel configuring member 1 through sealing members 44 and 45. The sealing member 45 is fitted with a groove 40a extended in an installing direction of the fluid control body 12. On at least one of the housing 11 and an opposite surface to the sealing member 45, thin grooves 24, 34a, 34b, 34c, and 34d communicating to the outside of the housing 11 are formed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid control device for controlling the flow of a fluid.

Background Art

[0002] Fluid pipes that make up existing pipelines through which water, gas, etc. flow may need to be renewed due to aging deterioration, the flow path may need to be changed, or a new branch path may be connected. In such construction work, a fluid control device installed to control the flow of a fluid is known.

[0003] Such a fluid control device is mainly composed of a housing connected to a flow path component such as a fluid pipe, and a fluid control member disposed on a seat surface provided in the housing via a seal member. When installing the fluid control device on a fluid pipe, first, the housing is externally fitted to the fluid pipe and fixed in a sealed state. Next, the fluid pipe inside the housing is cut using a punching device attached to the housing, and the fluid control member is inserted into the housing using an insertion device. Then, the fluid control member is fixedly installed in the housing in a state where the space between the housing and the fluid control member is sealed with a seal member.

[0004] By installing the fluid control member in the housing in this way, for example, control such as opening and closing of the flow path becomes possible. On the other hand, even when the flow path is closed by the fluid control member, leakage may occur if there is a problem such as the installation location of the seal member interposed between the housing and the fluid control member being inappropriate. Therefore, a fluid control device capable of checking the sealed state between the housing and the fluid control member is also known.

[0005] For example, the fluid control device shown in Patent Document 1 has a seat surface formed in a U-shaped cross-section in the housing, and the seal member has a pair of extending portions that extend along the seat surface and are spaced apart in the pipe axis direction. Therefore, by inserting the fluid control member into the housing and crimping the respective extending portions, a space defined by the pair of extending portions, the seat surface, and the fluid control member is formed.

[0006] Furthermore, the housing has a connecting passage that penetrates through it, communicating with the defined space described above. This creates a gap between the housing and the fluid control fluid installed inside it. If fluid enters the aforementioned space, opening the connecting passage will discharge the fluid outside the housing, making it possible to check for leakage. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-173133 (page 5, Figure 4) [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] In the fluid control device described in Patent Document 1, the sealing state inside the housing, which is difficult to visually confirm, can be easily checked by confirming the sealing state of the space between a pair of extended parts that are spaced apart in the axial direction of the pipe. However, since the pair of extended parts are independent of each other and can be elastically deformed individually, there is a risk that one side of the extended part may move relative to the other due to the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides, shear stress generated when the fluid control device is installed, etc. As a result, the sealing state may be compromised before it can be determined, making it difficult to confirm the sealing while ensuring a stable sealing state.

[0009] This invention was made in view of these problems, and aims to provide a fluid control device that can confirm a stable sealed state while ensuring a secure seal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] To solve the above problems, the fluid control device of the present invention, A fluid control device comprising a housing sealedly connected to a flow channel component, and a fluid control fluid installed within the housing via a sealing member in a continuous flow state in a direction across the flow channel component, The sealing member is fitted into a groove extending along the direction in which the fluid control is installed. The present invention is characterized in that at least one of the opposing surfaces of the housing and the sealing member has a narrow groove that communicates with the outside of the housing. This feature allows for a stable sealing state to be ensured using a single sealing member fitted into a groove, and furthermore, allows for confirmation of the seal between the housing and the sealing member.

[0011] The aforementioned narrow groove is characterized by extending in the direction in which the sealing member is extended. This feature allows for accurate verification of the seal between the housing and the sealing member.

[0012] The aforementioned narrow groove is characterized by being provided in the housing. This feature allows for the easy construction of narrow grooves with a stable structure.

[0013] The aforementioned narrow groove is characterized by being deeper than the elastic deformation allowance of the sealing member. This feature prevents the sealing member from becoming blocked even if a portion of it enters the narrow groove.

[0014] The aforementioned narrow groove is characterized by its diameter increasing toward the fluid control side. This feature ensures a chamfered shape that provides a contact area with the sealing member, thus reducing the likelihood of damage to the sealing member.

[0015] The aforementioned narrow groove is characterized in that it communicates with a passage that penetrates the housing in the thickness direction. This feature allows for easy detection of leaks.

[0016] The aforementioned narrow groove is characterized by its diameter increasing toward the passage side. This feature prevents the entire enlarged area from being blocked even if a part of the sealing member enters the narrow groove.

[0017] The communication path is a drain hole for discharging the fluid in the housing, which is characterized in that. According to this feature, since the drain for discharging the chips generated by cutting the fluid pipe can be used, the structure of the communication path can be simplified.

[0018] The fine groove is provided in the sealing member, which is characterized in that. According to this feature, the fine groove can be easily formed.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] It is a front view showing a state where the housing of the fluid control device in Example 1 is hermetically connected to a fluid pipe and a working valve and a cutting device are installed. [Figure 2] It is a side view showing a state where the fluid control of the fluid control device in Example 1 is installed in the housing. [Figure 3] It is a front view showing a partially broken fluid control device in Example 1. [Figure 4] It is a front cross-sectional view showing the inner peripheral surface of the housing in Example 1. [Figure 5] It is a sectional view taken along the line A-A in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] It is a sectional view taken along the line B-B in FIG. 4. [Figure 7] It is a sectional view taken along the line C-C in FIG. 4. [Figure 8] It is a view showing an enlarged D region in FIG. 5. [Figure 9] It is a view showing an enlarged E region in FIG. 6. [Figure 10] It is a view showing a sealing member crimped on a sheet surface. [Figure 11] It is a cross-sectional view showing another aspect of the fine groove. [Figure 12] It is a cross-sectional view showing yet another aspect of the fine groove. [Figure 13] It is a cross-sectional view showing another shape of the fine groove. [Figure 14] This is a cross-sectional view showing yet another shape of the narrow groove. [Figure 15] This is a top view showing another configuration of grooves in the lower housing. [Figure 16] This is a side cross-sectional view showing another configuration of the grooves in the lower housing. [Figure 17] This is a front view showing the fluid control device housing in Example 2 sealedly connected to the fluid pipe, with the work valve and cutting device installed. [Figure 18] This is a side view showing the fluid control device in Example 2 with the fluid control fluid installed inside the housing. [Figure 19] This is a front view showing a partially cutaway section of the fluid control device in Example 2. [Figure 20] This is a front cross-sectional view showing the inner circumferential surface of the housing in Example 2. [Figure 21] This is a cross-sectional view of FF in Figure 20. [Figure 22] This is a cross-sectional view of GG in Figure 20. [Figure 23] Figure 20 shows a cross-sectional view of HH. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] Embodiments for implementing the fluid control device according to the present invention will be described below based on examples. [Examples]

[0021] The fluid control device according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 16. In this embodiment, for example, a fluid pipe 1, which is a flow path component constituting an existing pipeline, is sealed and fitted onto the housing 11 of the fluid control device 10 according to the present invention, a predetermined location of the fluid pipe 1 inside the housing 11 is cut by a cutting device 5 (see Figure 1), a soft seal valve 12 (see Figure 2) as a fluid control device is installed at the cut location in a continuous flow state, and then the sealing state between the housing 11 and the soft seal valve 12 is confirmed.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, for example, the area around a predetermined location of the fluid pipe 1 buried underground is excavated, and the outer surface of the fluid pipe 1 is cleaned. Then, a housing 11 with a two-part structure, having a neck portion 21 that opens upward and communicates with the interior, is fitted and surrounded via sealing members 15 (see Figure 6), 16, 16 (see Figures 3 and 5) for sealing the cut portion of the fluid pipe 1, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the fluid inside the fluid pipe is tap water, but it is not limited to this; for example, it may be industrial water, agricultural water, sewage, or gas or a gas-liquid mixture.

[0023] Furthermore, the fluid pipe according to the present invention is a ductile cast iron pipe, formed in a substantially cylindrical shape in cross-section. The fluid pipe according to the present invention may also be made of other metals such as cast iron or steel, or concrete, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, or polyolefin. Moreover, the inner circumferential surface of the fluid pipe may be coated with an epoxy resin layer, mortar, plating, or an appropriate material may be applied to the inner circumferential surface of the fluid pipe by powder coating.

[0024] More specifically, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, the enclosure 11 is mainly composed of an upper enclosure 20 and a lower enclosure 30.

[0025] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the upper housing 20 is formed in an inverted T-shape when viewed from the front, comprising a neck portion 21 that extends upward and is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, and split arm portions 22 and 23 that extend laterally substantially perpendicular to the neck portion 21 and are formed in a semi-circular curved plate shape when viewed from the axial direction of the fluid pipe 1.

[0026] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the inside of the upper housing 20 has an annular sheet surface 21a formed concentrically with the axis of the neck portion 21 (i.e., the vertical direction in the drawing), and two linear sheet surfaces 21b, 21b extending vertically substantially perpendicular to the sheet surface 21a. These sheet surfaces 21a, 21b, 21b are formed in a stepped portion of the wall of the upper housing 20 that bulges inward from its inner surface.

[0027] As shown in Figure 5, the sheet surface 21a is an annular sheet surface having a width in the axial direction of the neck portion 21.

[0028] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the two sheet surfaces 21b, 21b are formed in the upper housing 20, positioned in the axial center of the split arms 22, 23 and in the diametrical direction of the neck portion 21 which is substantially perpendicular to the fluid pipe 1, and have width in the same axial direction. If the axial dimensions of one split arm portion and the other split arm portion are different, they only need to be formed in the diametrical direction of the neck portion 21 which is substantially perpendicular to the fluid pipe 1, and do not need to be formed in the axial center of the split arm portion and the other split arm portion.

[0029] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the two sheet surfaces 21b, 21b are inclined toward each other toward the split surface side of the upper housing 20 and are arranged facing each other in a roughly inverted V-shape. In addition, the sheet surface 21b is formed in a curved shape that curves inward toward the center in the width direction.

[0030] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, a linear groove 24 is recessed at approximately the center of each sheet surface 21b in the width direction, extending along its extension direction. The groove 24 is recessed outward from the center of the sheet surface 21b in the width direction, i.e., in the thickness direction of the wall of the upper housing 20 where the sheet surface 21b is located, and is open inward, with a rectangular cross-section (see Figure 5). In addition, the end of each groove 24 on the sheet surface 21a side is closed, and the opposite end is open toward the extension direction.

[0031] As shown in Figure 7, a connecting passage 25 is formed in the upper housing 20, extending substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension of the narrow groove 24. The connecting passage 25 is formed through the wall of the upper housing 20, and the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the exit end of the connecting passage 25, that is, the end that is open to the outside of the upper housing 20, is provided to be wider than the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the narrow groove 24.

[0032] Furthermore, the connecting passage 25 has a tapered tip located inside the upper housing 20 that communicates with the narrow groove 24. This makes it easier to introduce fluid from the narrow groove 24, which has a narrow flow cross-sectional area, into the connecting passage 25.

[0033] Furthermore, the connecting passage 25 can be closed by installing a plug 26 (see Figure 7).

[0034] As shown in Figure 5, a pair of flanges 27, 27 are formed on the outside of the upper housing 20, extending linearly along the split arm portion 22, curving along the neck portion 21, and then extending linearly along the split arm portion 23.

[0035] Furthermore, on the upper housing 20, a seat surface 28 is formed on the inside of the flange 27, extending along the adjacent flange 27. The seat surface 28 also has an extended portion 28a that is substantially perpendicular to the seat surface 21b.

[0036] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 6, the lower housing 30 is formed in a T-shape in front view, comprising a bowl-shaped body 31 and curved plate-like half-split arms 32 and 33 that extend laterally, substantially perpendicular to the body 31, and are curved in a semi-circular arc shape when viewed from the axial direction of the fluid pipe 1.

[0037] The body portion 31 has a drain hole 35 that penetrates axially. The drain hole 35 can be closed by attaching a plug 36 (see Figure 3).

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 4 and 6, the inside of the lower housing 30 has an annular sheet surface 31a surrounding the drain hole 35, two linear sheet surfaces 31b, 31b extending approximately perpendicular to the sheet surface 31a, and two linear sheet surfaces 31c, 31c that are continuous with the end of the sheet surface 31b and bent at approximately 120 degrees relative to its extension direction. These sheet surfaces 31a to 31c are continuous and approximately flush with the surface. Also, the sheet surfaces 31c, 31c are formed in a stepped portion of the wall of the lower housing 30 that bulges inward from its inner surface. Note that in Figures 4 and 6, the sheet surfaces 31a, 31b, 31b are formed flush with the other inner surfaces of the body 31 and are therefore shown with dashed lines.

[0039] As shown in Figure 6, the sheet surface 31a has a width in the radial direction of the drain hole 35 and is formed in a bowl shape that becomes shallower as it moves radially away from the axial side of the drain hole 35.

[0040] As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the two seat surfaces 31b, 31b are positioned in the lower housing 30 at the axial center of the split arms 32, 33 and in the diametrical direction of the body 31 which is substantially perpendicular to the fluid pipe 1, and have width in the same axial direction. If the axial dimensions of one split arm and the other split arm are different, they only need to be positioned in the diametrical direction of the body 31 which is substantially perpendicular to the fluid pipe 1, and do not need to be formed at the axial center of one split arm and the other split arm.

[0041] Furthermore, the two sheet surfaces 31b, 31b are inclined toward the split surface side of the lower housing 30, and are arranged facing each other in a roughly inverted V-shape. In addition, the sheet surface 31b is formed in a curved shape that curves inward toward the center in the width direction.

[0042] The two seat surfaces 31c, 31c are positioned and formed in the axial center of the split arm portions 32, 33 and in the diametrical direction of the body portion 31 which is substantially perpendicular to the fluid pipe 1, and have width in the same axial direction. If the axial dimensions of one split arm portion and the other split arm portion are different, they only need to be positioned and formed in the diametrical direction of the body portion 31 which is substantially perpendicular to the fluid pipe 1, and do not need to be formed in the axial center of one split arm portion and the other split arm portion.

[0043] Furthermore, the two sheet surfaces 31c, 31c are inclined toward the split surface side of the lower housing 30, and are arranged facing each other in a roughly inverted V-shape. In addition, the sheet surface 31c is formed in a curved shape that curves inward toward the center in the width direction.

[0044] As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the lower housing 30 has recessed grooves 34a, 34b, 34c, and 34d.

[0045] As shown in Figure 6, the narrow groove 34a is annular in shape extending along the extension direction of the sheet surface 31a, and is formed in a rectangular cross-section that is recessed outward from the center in the width direction of the sheet surface 31a, that is, in the thickness direction of the wall portion of the lower housing 30 where the sheet surface 31a is located, and opens inward (see Figure 4).

[0046] As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the narrow groove 34b is linear in shape, extending along the extension direction of the sheet surface 31b, and is recessed in the thickness direction of the wall portion of the lower housing 30 from the center in the width direction of the sheet surface 31b. Although not directly shown, the cross-sectional shape of the narrow groove 34a in Figure 4 and the cross-sectional shape of the narrow groove 34c in Figure 6 are substantially the same. Furthermore, the narrow groove 34b is in communication with the narrow groove 34a.

[0047] The narrow groove 34c is linear in shape, extending along the extension direction of the sheet surface 31c (see Figure 4), and is formed in a rectangular cross-section that is recessed in the thickness direction of the wall of the lower housing 30 from the center in the width direction of the sheet surface 31c and opens inward (see Figure 6). Furthermore, the narrow groove 34c is in communication with the narrow groove 34b, and the opposite end is open toward the extension direction.

[0048] As shown in Figure 6, the narrow groove 34d is linear and extends along the axial direction of the split arm portions 32 and 33, and is recessed in the thickness direction of the wall portion of the lower housing 30 from the seat surface 31a. Although not directly shown, the cross-sectional shape of the narrow groove 34a in Figure 4 and the cross-sectional shape of the narrow groove 34c in Figure 6 are substantially the same. Furthermore, the narrow groove 34d communicates with the narrow groove 34a and the drain hole 35.

[0049] On the outside of the lower housing 30, a pair of flanges 37, 37 are formed, which extend linearly along the split arm portion 32, curve along the body portion 31, and then extend linearly along the split arm portion 33.

[0050] Furthermore, in the lower housing 30, a seal groove 38 is formed on the inside of the flange 37, extending along the adjacent flange 37. The seal groove 38 also has an extended portion 38a that is substantially perpendicular to the seat surface 31c.

[0051] A plate-shaped portion 15A of the sealing member 15 is placed in each sealing groove 38. The plate-shaped portion 15A is formed to be fitted into the sealing groove 38 and has an extended portion 15a that is fitted into the extended portion 38a. The extended portion 15a is also positioned substantially flush with the sheet surfaces 21b and 31c.

[0052] As described above, in detail when fitting the housing 11 onto the fluid pipe 1, first, as shown in Figure 6, the plate-shaped portions 15A, 15A of the sealing member 15 are fitted into the seal grooves 38, 38 of the lower housing 30, the curved portions 15B, 15B of the sealing member 15 are fitted inside the split arm portions 32, 33 of the lower housing 30, and then, as shown in Figure 5, one split sealing member 16 is fitted inside the split arm portions 22, 23 of the upper housing 20.

[0053] Then, as shown in Figure 1, the flanges 27 and 37 of the upper housing 20 and lower housing 30, which are fitted over the fluid pipe 1, are fastened together with bolts and nuts. As a result, the seat surfaces 28, 28 of the upper housing 20 are pressed against the plate-like portions 15A, 15A, sealing the space between the cut surfaces of the upper housing 20 and the lower housing 30. In addition, the curved portions 15B, 15B and the sealing members 16, 16 are pressed against the outer circumferential surface of the fluid pipe 1, sealing the space between the fluid pipe 1 and the housing 11 (see Figure 3).

[0054] Consequently, the extensions 28a, 28a of the seat surfaces 28, 28 of the upper housing 20 and the extensions 38a, 38a of the seal grooves 38, 38 of the lower housing 30 are also sealed by the extensions 15a, 15a of the seal members 15, 15. Therefore, the ends on the split surface side of the narrow grooves 24, 24 of the upper housing 20 and the ends on the split surface side of the narrow grooves 34c, 34c of the lower housing 30 are both closed. In other words, the narrow groove 24 of the upper housing 20 and the narrow groove 34c of the lower housing 30 located below it are not in communication.

[0055] Furthermore, in the housing 11, the sheet surface 21b is substantially flush with the sheet surface 31c, sandwiching the extended portion 15a of the sealing member 15, and together with the other sheet surfaces 31a and 31b, they form a single U-shaped sheet surface 21b to 31c when viewed from the axial direction of the fluid pipe 1.

[0056] Then, anti-movement fittings 14, 14 are attached to the cylindrical arm portion consisting of the split arm portions 22, 32 and the cylindrical arm portion consisting of the split arm portions 23, 33 of the housing 11, respectively. Referring to Figure 3, the anti-movement fitting 14 is formed to be separable in half, and a claw member is provided on its inner diameter side. By fitting these anti-movement fittings 14 onto the arm portion and fastening them with bolts and nuts, the claw member can be pressed against the fluid pipe 1. This prevents the fluid pipe 1 from coming out of the arm portion even if the fluid pipe 1 is cut.

[0057] Next, as shown in Figure 1, the flange of the neck portion 21 and the valve body of the work valve 4, and the valve body and the cutting device 5 are connected with bolts and nuts (not shown). Needless to say, gaskets are used to seal each connection.

[0058] Next, the work valve 4 is opened, and a portion of the fluid pipe 1 is cut by the cutter of the cutting device 5 in a continuous flow state. At this time, by keeping the drain hole 35 open, the metal shavings generated when the fluid pipe 1 is cut by the cutter can be discharged to the outside along with the fluid.

[0059] Subsequently, the drain hole 35 is closed with a plug 36 (see Figure 3), and the cutter is lifted up together with the cut piece of fluid pipe 1, closing the work valve 4. This prevents fluid leakage and allows the cutting device 5 to be removed from the work valve 4 while maintaining a continuous flow state.

[0060] Next, a soft seal valve 12 is installed inside the housing 11 as a fluid control valve. As shown in Figure 2, first the flange of the valve body of the work valve 4 is connected to the housing of the insertion device 6. Then, the work valve 4 is opened, and the insertion device 6 is operated to position the open soft seal valve 12 inside the housing 11. Needless to say, a gasket is interposed between the flange of the valve body and the housing of the insertion device 6 to ensure a seal.

[0061] More specifically, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the soft seal valve 12 comprises a U-shaped partition wall 40 having an opening in its approximate center, an opening / closing shaft 41 rotatably attached to the upper end of the partition wall 40, a valve body 42 provided to open and close the opening of the partition wall 40 in accordance with the rotation of the opening / closing shaft 41, and a substantially circular cover portion 43 extending substantially horizontally and sealedly connected to the upper end of the partition wall 40.

[0062] A groove 43a is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the lid portion 43, recessed on the inner diameter side and open on the outer diameter side, and a sealing member 44 with a circular cross-section is fixed to the groove 43a with adhesive.

[0063] The outer surface of the partition wall 40, that is, the outer surface that is positioned opposite the sheet surfaces 21b to 31c of the housing 11, is formed in a U-shape when viewed from the axial direction of the fluid pipe 1, so as to be aligned with these sheet surfaces 21b to 31c.

[0064] A groove 40a is formed at the axial center of the fluid pipe 1 on the outer surface of the partition wall 40, recessed inward from the partition wall 40 and open outward. The groove 40a extends along the narrow grooves 24-34c and is continuously connected to them. A sealing member 45 with a circular cross-section is fixed to the groove 40a with adhesive.

[0065] In the sealing member 45, the portions positioned on the sheet surfaces 21b, 21b, 31b, 31b, 31c, 31c are string-like structures extending along the narrow grooves 24, 24, 34b, 34b, 34c, 34c, as shown by the dashed lines in Figures 4 and 6, while the portion positioned opposite the sheet surface 31a is annular in shape extending along the narrow groove 34a, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 6. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the longitudinal ends of the sealing member 45 are connected to the sealing member 44 in a continuous manner.

[0066] In detail, when arranging the soft seal valve 12 inside the housing 11, plugs 26, 26 (see Figure 7) and 36 (see Figure 3) are attached to each communication passage 25 and drain hole 35, and the soft seal valve 12 is inserted into the housing 11 with the widthwise center of the sealing member 45, that is, the axial center of the fluid pipe 1 in the sealing member 45, aligned with the widthwise center of each narrow groove 24.

[0067] In this case, since each sheet surface 21b to 31c is curved, the sealing member 45 can be guided into the narrow grooves 34 to 34c formed in the center in the width direction.

[0068] Furthermore, since each narrow groove 24 extends in the insertion direction of the soft seal valve 12, i.e., the installation direction, as shown in Figure 10, a part of the sealing member 45 enters the narrow groove 24, allowing for more accurate guidance during insertion of the soft seal valve 12. The same applies to each narrow groove 34c, 34b, and 34a, which extend in approximately the same direction as the extension direction of the narrow groove 24. Therefore, it is easy to position the soft seal valve 12 with respect to the housing 11 at the correct relative position and angle.

[0069] Furthermore, the groove 40a in the partition wall 40 of the soft seal valve 12 extends in the direction in which the soft seal valve 12 is installed. Therefore, when inserting the soft seal valve 12 into the housing 11, the sealing member 45 is less likely to undergo elastic deformation that would cause it to bend in the axial direction of the fluid pipe 1. This not only makes it difficult for the sealing member 45 to detach from the groove 40a, but also makes it easier to align the sealing member 45 with respect to each of the narrow grooves 24 to 34a. In addition, since the sealing member 45 is fixed to the groove 40a, it can stably seal the groove 40a.

[0070] More specifically, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the width W of each of the narrow grooves 24, 34c, and 34b is formed to be shorter than the diameter D of the sealing member 45 in its natural state before elastic deformation, and in this embodiment, it is formed to be approximately one-tenth (10 × W ≈ D).

[0071] As a result, as shown in Figure 10, by positioning the sealing member 45 along the narrow groove 24, a region that can be reliably sealed can be pressed onto the sheet surface 21b while straddling the narrow groove 24. The same applies to each of the other sheet surfaces 31a to 31c, and a region that can be reliably sealed can be pressed onto each of the other narrow grooves 34a to 34c, which have approximately the same width dimension as the narrow groove 24, while straddling them.

[0072] Furthermore, the sealing member 44 fixed to the groove 43a is not only less likely to detach from the groove 43a, but can also stably seal the groove 43a.

[0073] Then, as shown in Figure 3, the radially slidable locking piece 43b provided on the lid 43 is inserted into the groove formed in the neck portion 21 of the housing 11, thereby temporarily fixing the soft seal valve 12 to the housing 11. This maintains the state in which the seal member 44 is pressed against the seat surface 21a and the seal member 45 is pressed against the seat surfaces 21b to 31c.

[0074] Subsequently, the annular cover 13 is fixed to the neck portion 21 with bolts and nuts. This causes the protrusion of the cover 13 to be pressed against the locking piece 43b of the soft seal valve 12, preventing the soft seal valve 12 from coming loose. In this manner, the fluid control device 10 can be installed in the fluid pipe 1.

[0075] Although the soft seal valve 12 has been described as being installed inside the housing 11 with plugs 26, 26, 36 attached to each communication passage 25 and drain hole 35, the configuration is not limited to this, and the soft seal valve 12 may be placed inside the housing 11 with each communication passage 25 and drain hole 35 open or with the opening degree restricted. With such a configuration, even if metal shavings remain in each of the narrow grooves 24 to 34d, they can be smoothly discharged as the sealing member 45 compresses. In addition, as the sealing member 45 advances, fluid can be discharged from each communication passage 25 and drain hole 35, thus achieving a more efficient sealed state.

[0076] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the depth dimension L of each of the narrow grooves 24 and 34c is formed to be deeper than the deformation allowance C that occurs when the sealing member 45 is pressed against the seat surfaces 21b and 31c and elastically deformed when the soft seal valve 12 is placed inside the housing 11 (L > C).

[0077] As a result, as shown in Figure 10, even if a portion of the sealing member 45 bulges into the narrow grooves 24 and 34c, a sufficient flow cross-sectional area for fluid flow can be secured. The same applies to the narrow grooves 34a, 34b, and 34d, which are formed to approximately the same depth dimension L as the respective depth dimensions L of the narrow grooves 24 and 34c.

[0078] Therefore, if there is a problem with the installation of the soft seal valve 12 inside the housing 11, and a gap is created between the sealing member 45 and the seat surface 21b, fluid will enter the narrow groove 24 through this gap. Then, by removing the plug 26 (see Figure 7) and opening the communication passage 25, the fluid that has entered the narrow groove 24 can be discharged to the outside of the housing 11.

[0079] This allows us to determine that if fluid continues to be discharged from the communication passage 25, a gap has formed between the sealing member 45 and the seat surface 21b, meaning that there is a problem with the installation of the soft seal valve 12.

[0080] Furthermore, if there is no fluid discharge from the communication passage 25, or if the discharge is minimal and then terminates, it can be determined that the space between the sealing member 45 and the seat surface 21b of the housing 11 is sealed. The same applies when confirming the sealed state between the opposite seat surface 21b and the sealing member 45.

[0081] Furthermore, if the discharge is minimal, the fluid stored in the narrow groove 24 will be discharged, and as the fluid pressure in the narrow groove 24 decreases due to the discharge of the fluid, the sealing member 45 will expand into the narrow groove 24, thereby increasing the degree of sealing.

[0082] Furthermore, to check the sealing state between the sealing member 45 and the respective seat surfaces 31a, 31b, and 31c of the housing 11, the plug 36 (see Figure 3) is removed to open the drain hole 35. This allows any fluid that has flowed into groove 34a through one of the grooves 34c or 34b, or any fluid that has directly entered groove 34a, to be discharged through groove 34d and out of the drain hole 35.

[0083] This allows us to determine if a gap has formed between the sealing member 45 and any of the seat surfaces 31a to 31c if fluid continues to be discharged from the drain hole 35. Furthermore, if there is no fluid discharge from the drain hole 35, or if the discharge has stopped, we can determine that the space between the sealing member 45 and the seat surfaces 31a to 31c is sealed.

[0084] Furthermore, if the discharge is minimal, it is conceivable that the fluid stored in any of the narrow grooves 34a to 34d will be discharged, and that the sealing member 45 will expand into the narrow grooves 34a to 34d in response to the decrease in fluid pressure within the narrow grooves 34a to 34d due to the discharge of the fluid, thereby increasing the degree of sealing.

[0085] As described above, the fluid control device 10 of this embodiment can ensure a stable sealing state between the housing 11 and the soft seal valve 12 by utilizing a single sealing member 45 fitted into the groove 40a of the soft seal valve 12. Furthermore, it is possible to confirm the sealing between the housing 11 and the sealing member 45.

[0086] Furthermore, since each of the narrow grooves 24 to 34c is formed along the corresponding seat surfaces 21b to 31c and extends in the installation direction of the soft seal valve 12, the sealing member 45 extending in the installation direction can be stably pressed against the corresponding seat surface, thereby enabling accurate confirmation of the seal between the housing 11 and the sealing member 45.

[0087] Furthermore, since each of the narrow grooves 24-34c is formed along the corresponding seat surfaces 21b-31c, the distance to the connecting passage 25 and drain hole 35 can be shortened, making it easier to reduce flow resistance compared to a meandering configuration, and facilitating the smooth discharge of fluid within each of the narrow grooves 24-34c.

[0088] Furthermore, since each of the narrow grooves 24-34c is formed in the highly rigid housing 11, it is possible to easily construct narrow grooves with a stable structure.

[0089] Furthermore, since the narrow groove 24 is connected to the passage 25 that penetrates the housing 11 in the thickness direction, leakage can be easily checked without having to perform operations such as removing the lid 13 from the housing 11.

[0090] This also applies to the narrow grooves 34a to 34d and the drain hole 35. However, since the function of the connecting passage can be shared with the drain hole 35, the configuration of the connecting passage can be simplified compared to a configuration that provides a separate connecting passage.

[0091] Furthermore, since the sealing member 45 protrudes in a curved tapered shape toward each of the narrow grooves 24 to 34c, a portion of the sealing member 45 can be advanced into the narrow groove, making it easier to press the sealing member 45 against the corner formed by the edge of the narrow groove, i.e., the end face extending in the depth direction of each of the narrow grooves 24 to 34c, and the sheet surface 21b to 31c which is substantially perpendicular to the said end face. This makes it possible to more effectively improve the sealing performance.

[0092] The sealing member 45 only needs to be tapered, protruding toward the narrow groove, and its cross-sectional shape can be changed as appropriate, such as triangular or trapezoidal. On the other hand, it does not have to be tapered.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sealing member 45 is not arranged along the narrow groove 34d, but it may be arranged along the narrow groove 34d and the drain hole 35 if it is able to communicate with them, and the portion that is pressed against the sheet surface 31a may be disc-shaped, and its configuration may be changed as appropriate.

[0094] Furthermore, although the upper housing 20 and the lower housing 30 have been described as being fastened together with bolts and nuts, the configuration is not limited to this, and they may also be connected in a sealed manner by welding. In such a configuration, the narrow groove 24 of the upper housing 20 and the narrow groove 34c of the lower housing 30 may be in direct communication. In such a configuration, even if a gap occurs at any point between these seat surfaces 21b to 31c and the sealing member 45, the sealing between the housing and the sealing member can be confirmed through only one communication passage.

[0095] Although not shown directly in the illustration, a narrow groove communicating with the narrow grooves 24 and 34c may also be formed in the extended portions 15a, 15a of the sealing members 15, 15 described above. Even with such a configuration, the sealing between the housing and the sealing member can be confirmed using only one communication passage.

[0096] Although not shown directly in the illustration, the narrow groove 24 of the upper housing 20 may also traverse the seat surface 21a and communicate with the area outside the seat surface 21a. With such a configuration, fluid that enters the narrow groove 24 is discharged through the narrow groove 24 to the area outside the seat surface 21a, allowing for confirmation of sealing. In other words, a communication passage is not required.

[0097] Next, we will explain another form of the narrow groove by illustrating the configuration of either the upper or lower housing. Note that components identical to those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0098] As shown in Figure 11, the sealing member 145 is formed in a U-shape in cross-section, having a continuous narrow groove 145a that extends continuously in its longitudinal direction. This makes it easier to form the narrow groove 145a compared to a configuration in which a narrow groove is formed in a highly rigid housing.

[0099] Furthermore, the seat surface 121b of the upper housing 120 may be formed in a flush curved shape. Even with such a configuration, by providing a communication passage that communicates with the narrow groove 145a, it is possible to confirm the seal between the housing and the sealing member 145. Moreover, with such a configuration, it is possible to confirm the seal between the housing and the sealing member 145 using only one communication passage.

[0100] Furthermore, the narrow groove 145a may traverse the sealing member 44 longitudinally, provided that a sealed state can be ensured. With such a configuration, the fluid that enters through the narrow groove 145a is discharged to the outside of the seat surface 21a, so the connecting passage can be omitted.

[0101] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, the end of the sealing member 145 located outside the groove 40a may be pressed against the sheet surface 21b, spanning the narrow groove 24. With such a configuration, a wide flow cross-sectional area can be secured.

[0102] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, the narrow groove 224 formed in the upper housing 220 may be configured to widen in diameter toward the seat surface 221b. With such a configuration, the sealing member can be pressed over a wide area while increasing the angle of the edge of the narrow groove 224, thereby suppressing damage and wear of the sealing member.

[0103] Furthermore, when inserting the soft seal valve 12, the large angle of the edge of the narrow groove 224 that is continuous with the seat surface 221b guides the seal member 45 toward the center in the width direction of the narrow groove 224, making it easier to position the seal member 45 in the appropriate location.

[0104] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, the narrow groove 324 formed in the upper housing 320 may be configured to widen in the direction away from the seat surface 321b, that is, toward the communication passage. With such a configuration, even if a part of the sealing member enters the narrow groove 324, it is possible to prevent the entire widened area from being blocked.

[0105] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, the lower housing 430 may have narrow grooves 34c, 34c, 34b, 34b and a connecting passage 435 that communicates with the narrow groove 34c and can be closed with a plug 436. In other words, the annular seat surface 431a of the body portion 431 does not necessarily have narrow grooves.

[0106] Even with this configuration, sealing can be confirmed through the connecting passage 435. The connecting passage may also be connected to the narrow grooves 34b, 34b, and its arrangement and position may be changed as appropriate. The same applies to the upper housing. [Examples]

[0107] Next, the fluid control device according to Example 2 will be described with reference to Figures 17 to 23. Note that components identical to those shown in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0108] As shown in Figures 17 to 19, the fluid control device 510 (see Figure 19) of this embodiment connects a branch pipe (not shown) as a flow path component to a housing 511 that is sealed and fitted onto the fluid pipe 1, and allows the fluid flow to be switched using a switching valve 512 (see Figures 18 and 19) installed inside the housing 511 as a fluid control device.

[0109] As shown in Figure 19, the housing 511 is formed in a T-shape when viewed from above, and has a connection part 511A to which the branch pipe is connected, and is composed of an upper housing 520 and a lower housing 530.

[0110] As shown in Figures 19 to 21, the upper housing 520 includes a neck portion 521, split arm portions 522 and 523, and a curved plate-shaped split connecting portion 529 that extends substantially perpendicular to the axial center of the split arm portions 522 and 523 in the neck portion 521.

[0111] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the inside of the upper housing 520 has an annular seat surface 521a, three seat surfaces 521b, 521b, 521b extending together with the narrow groove 524, and three connecting passages 525 (see Figure 23). One seat surface 521b is formed on the axis of the split joint 529, and the remaining two are formed one each on the split arm portions 522 and 523 side of the split joint 529.

[0112] As shown in Figure 21, the upper housing 520 has a flange 527A, a flange 527B that extends along the split arm portion 522 and substantially perpendicularly along the split connection portion 529, and a flange 527C that extends along the split arm portion 523 and substantially perpendicularly along the split connection portion 529.

[0113] Furthermore, the upper housing 520 has a seat surface 528A extending along flange 527A, a seat surface 528B extending along flange 527B, and a seat surface 528C extending along flange 527C.

[0114] Furthermore, the sheet surfaces 528A, 528B, and 528C have extensions 528Aa, 528Ba, and 528Ca that are substantially perpendicular to the corresponding sheet surface 521b.

[0115] As shown in Figures 19, 20, and 22, the lower housing 530 comprises a body portion 531, split arm portions 532 and 533, and a curved plate-shaped split connecting portion 539 that extends substantially perpendicular to the axial center of the split arm portions 532 and 533 in the body portion 531.

[0116] As shown in Figures 20 and 22, the inside of the lower housing 530 has an annular seat surface 531a extending with the narrow groove 534a, three seat surfaces 531b, 531b, 531b extending with the narrow groove 534b, three seat surfaces 531c, 531c, 531c extending with the narrow groove 534c, and three connecting passages 535 (see Figure 23). One seat surface 531b is formed on the axis of the split connection portion 539, and the remaining two are formed one each on the split arm portions 532 and 533 side of the split connection portion 539. The same applies to the three seat surfaces 531c.

[0117] As shown in Figure 22, the lower housing 530 has a flange 537A, a flange 537B that extends along the split arm portion 532 and substantially perpendicularly along the split connection portion 539, and a flange 537C that extends along the split arm portion 533 and substantially perpendicularly along the split connection portion 539.

[0118] Furthermore, the lower housing 530 has a seal groove 538A extending along flange 537A, a seal groove 538B extending along flange 537B, and a seal groove 538C extending along flange 537C.

[0119] Furthermore, each seal groove 538A, 538B, and 538C has an extended portion 538Aa, 538Ba, and 538Ca that is substantially perpendicular to the corresponding seat surface 531c. The extended portion 538Aa is fitted with the extended portion 515Aa of the seal member 515A, the extended portion 538Ba is fitted with the extended portion 515Ba of the seal member 515B, and the extended portion 538Ca is fitted with the extended portion 515Ca of the seal member 515C.

[0120] When fitting the housing 511 onto the fluid pipe 1, the sealing members 515A, 515B, and 515C are fitted into the sealing grooves 538A, 538B, and 538C of the lower housing 530, and the flanges 527 and 537 of the upper housing 520 and lower housing 530, which are fitted onto the fluid pipe 1, are fastened together with bolts and nuts. Although the upper housing 520 and lower housing 530 have been described as being fastened together with bolts and nuts, the configuration is not limited to this, and they may also be connected in a sealed manner by welding.

[0121] Then, as shown in Figure 19, the sealing member 516 is pressed into the space between each arm portion of the housing 511 and the fluid pipe 1 using the thrust rings 514, 514 to create a seal. In addition, the claw members provided on the thrust rings 514 are extended inward by tightening the bolts and pressed against the fluid pipe 1. This prevents the fluid pipe 1 from coming out of the arm portion even if the fluid pipe 1 is cut.

[0122] Next, the work valve 504 and the cutting device 505 are installed, and a portion of the fluid pipe 1 is cut by the cutter of the cutting device 505 in a continuous flow state (see Figure 17). At this time, a drain pipe is sealed and connected to the housing 511, and by opening its valve, the metal shavings generated when the fluid pipe 1 is cut by the cutter can be discharged to the outside along with the fluid.

[0123] Next, the switching valve 512 is installed inside the housing 511 using the insertion device 506 (see Figure 18).

[0124] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the switching valve 512 comprises a partition wall 540 having a flow path extending axially in the fluid pipe 1 and a flow path communicating with the same flow path and extending axially in the branch pipe, an opening / closing shaft 541, a valve body 542 (see Figure 19) that is provided to be able to select and open or close one of the openings of the partition wall 540 in accordance with the rotation of the opening / closing shaft 541, and a cover portion 543.

[0125] A sealing member 544 is fixed to the groove 543a of the lid portion 543 with adhesive.

[0126] On the outer surface of the partition wall 540, that is, the outer surface facing the sheet surfaces 521b to 531c of the housing 511, a groove 540a is formed that extends along the narrow grooves 524 to 534c and is in continuous communication with them. A sealing member 545 with a circular cross-section is fixed to the groove 540a with adhesive.

[0127] As shown by the dashed lines in Figures 20 and 22, the sealing member 545 is positioned along the narrow grooves 524 to 534c and pressed against the sheet surface 521b to 531c.

[0128] After inserting the switching valve 512 into the housing 511 and securing the switching valve 512 with fixing screws (not shown) provided on the neck portion 521, the annular cover 513 is fixed to the neck portion 521 of the housing 511 with bolts and nuts, as shown in Figure 19. This prevents the switching valve 512 from coming out.

[0129] To check the sealing state between the sealing member 545 and the seat surface 521b of the housing 511, the plug 526 (see Figure 23) is removed to open the communication passage 525 and check for the presence or absence of fluid discharge. Similarly, the sealing between the sealing member 545 and the seat surfaces 531a to 531c can be checked by removing the plug 536 (see Figure 23) to open the communication passage 535.

[0130] Thus, even if the fluid control is a switching valve 512, a stable sealing state can be ensured by using a single sealing member 545 fitted into the groove 540a, and the sealing between the housing 511 and the sealing member 545 can be confirmed. In other words, the fluid control may be a gate valve, a water stop plug, a water stop plate, etc., and can be appropriately changed as long as the sealing member is pressed against the seat surface.

[0131] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, the specific configurations are not limited to these embodiments, and any changes or additions that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included.

[0132] For example, in the above embodiment, fluid pipes and branch pipes were described as examples of flow path components, but the invention is not limited to these. Any component that constitutes a flow path may be a valve, fitting, cover used to stop leaks, etc., and may be modified as appropriate.

[0133] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described the housing as being divisible into an upper housing and a lower housing, it may be divided into three or more parts.

[0134] Furthermore, although the sealing member of the fluid control system was described as a single sealing member in the above embodiment, more specifically, multiple sealing members may be connected to form a single sealing member, as long as it is configured as a single sealing member when installed.

[0135] Furthermore, although the groove into which the sealing member of the fluid control is fitted was described as being continuous in the longitudinal direction in the above embodiment, it is not limited to this configuration, and multiple grooves may be provided along the installation direction of the fluid control.

[0136] Furthermore, although the fine grooves were described in the above embodiment as being continuous in the extending direction of the sheet surface, the invention is not limited to this configuration, and multiple fine grooves may be formed in the extending direction of the sheet surface.

[0137] Furthermore, although the cutting device in the above embodiment was described as a hole saw with a cutter, it is not limited to this and may be a cutting tool, wire saw, end mill, etc., and may be changed as appropriate. Also, the fluid pipe constituting the flow path is not limited to being cut, but it is sufficient that fluid can flow through at least a portion of it that has been perforated. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0138] 1 Fluid tube 4. Working valve 5 Cutting device 6 Insertion device 10 Fluid control device 11 cabinets 12. Soft seal valve (fluid control valve) 15 sealing member 16. Sealing member 20 Upper chassis 21a, 21b Sheet surface 24 Narrow groove 25 Communication path 26 plugs 30 Lower enclosure 31a~31c Seat surface 34 Narrow groove 34a~34d narrow groove 35 Drain holes (connecting passages) 36 plugs 40a,43a groove 44,45 Sealing member 120~320 Upper enclosure 121b, 221b Sheet surface 145 Sealing member 145a narrow groove 224,324 narrow groove 430 Lower enclosure 431a Sheet surface 435 Communication path 436 plug 504 Work valve 505 Cutting device 506 Insertion device 510 Fluid control device 511 cabinet 512 Switching valve (fluid control valve) 515A~515C Sealing material 516 Sealing member 520 Upper Chassis 521a, 521b Sheet surface 524 Narrow groove 525 Communication path 526 Plug 530 Lower enclosure 531a~531c Seat surface 534a~534c narrow groove 535 Communication path 536 plug 540a,543a Groove 544,545 sealing member

Claims

1. A fluid control device comprising a housing that is sealedly connected to a flow channel component, and a fluid control fluid installed on the inner surface of the housing via a sealing member in a continuous flow state in a direction crossing the flow channel component, The sealing member is fitted into a groove extending along the direction in which the fluid control is installed. A fluid control device characterized in that at least one of the surfaces facing the inner surface of the housing and the sealing member which is continuous in the width direction has a narrow groove formed thereon that is narrower than the sealing member which is continuous in the width direction and communicates with the outside of the housing.

2. The fluid control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the narrow groove extends in the direction of extension of the sealing member.

3. The fluid control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the aforementioned narrow groove is provided in the housing.

4. The fluid control device according to claim 3, characterized in that the narrow groove is deeper than the elastic deformation allowance of the sealing member.

5. The fluid control device according to claim 3, characterized in that the narrow groove is widened toward the fluid control side.

6. The fluid control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the narrow groove is in communication with a passage that penetrates the housing in the thickness direction.

7. The fluid control device according to claim 6, characterized in that the narrow groove is widened toward the communication passage side.

8. The fluid control device according to claim 6, characterized in that the communication passage is a drain hole for discharging fluid from inside the housing.

9. The fluid control device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the aforementioned narrow groove is provided in the sealing member.

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