Connection structure

Abstract

This disclosure provides a connection structure that allows the connection status to be visually confirmed from the outside. [Solution] The connection structure comprises a first connecting pipe 1 and a second connecting pipe 2. The first connecting pipe 1 has a first fitting portion 11 including a first projection 111 that protrudes outward in the radial direction RD from its outer peripheral surface OS1. The second connecting pipe 2 has a second fitting portion 21 including a fitting piece 213 that is cantilevered and extends circumferentially from the tip 2a in the axial direction AD and is elastically deformable in the radial direction. The first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 fit together to restrict the relative movement of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 in the axial direction AD. When the first connecting pipe 1 is inserted into the second connecting pipe 2 from the tip in the axial direction AD, the fitting piece 213 is elastically deformed outward in the radial direction RD by the first projection 111, causing it to overcome the first projection 111 in the axial direction AD and thus fit together.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connection structure.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an air-conditioning duct connection structure for connecting two air-conditioning duct members such as ducts and branch chambers in a building's air-conditioning equipment.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The air-conditioning duct connection structure described in Patent Document 1 cannot be visually confirmed from the outside for the connection state.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a connection structure that allows the connection state to be visually confirmed from the outside.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A first aspect of the present disclosure includes a first connection pipe and a second connection pipe provided respectively on one and the other of an air-conditioning device and an air-conditioning duct member for connecting the air-conditioning device and the air-conditioning duct member. The first connection pipe has a first fitting portion including a first protrusion protruding radially outward from an outer peripheral surface. The second connection pipe has a second fitting portion including a fitting piece provided in a cantilevered manner extending circumferentially at a tip in an axial direction and being elastically deformable in the radial direction. When the first connection pipe is inserted axially from a tip into the inside of the second connection pipe, the fitting piece is elastically deformed radially outward by the first protrusion and gets over the first protrusion in the axial direction, so that the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are fitted to each other, and a connection structure is provided for restricting an axial relative movement between the first connection pipe and the second connection pipe.

[0007] According to the first embodiment described above, a connection structure can be provided that allows the connection status to be visually confirmed from the outside.

[0008] A second aspect of this disclosure is the connection structure of the first aspect, wherein the first connecting pipe is provided in the air conditioning device and the second connecting pipe is provided in the air conditioning passage member.

[0009] According to the second embodiment described above, the air conditioning duct member can be connected to the air conditioning device by inserting the first connecting pipe, provided in the air conditioning device, axially from its tip into the inside of the second connecting pipe provided in the air conditioning duct member, thereby fitting the first fitting portion of the first connecting pipe and the second fitting portion of the second connecting pipe together.

[0010] A third aspect of the present disclosure is the connection structure of the second aspect described above, wherein the first connecting pipe has a tip diameter smaller than the diameter of the base end on the opposite side in the axial direction, and the second connecting pipe has a tip diameter larger than the diameter of the base end on the opposite side in the axial direction.

[0011] According to the third embodiment described above, when attaching the second connecting pipe to the air conditioning duct member, the base end of the second connecting pipe, which has a smaller diameter than the tip of the inverted tapered second connecting pipe, is inserted into the inside of the air conditioning duct member, making it easy to attach the second connecting pipe to air conditioning duct members of various diameters. Furthermore, the tip of the tapered first connecting pipe attached to the air conditioning device, which has a smaller diameter than the base end, can be easily inserted into the inside of the inverted tapered second connecting pipe.

[0012] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a connection structure according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the second fitting portion has a first notch extending in the circumferential direction along one side of the fitting piece opposite to the tip of the second connecting pipe, and a second notch extending in the axial direction along the tip of the fitting piece from the tip of the second connecting pipe to the first notch.

[0013] According to the fourth embodiment described above, by forming a first notch and a second notch in the second connecting pipe, a fitting piece can be formed that is cantilevered in the circumferential direction and extends circumferentially at the tip of the second connecting pipe in the axial direction, and is elastically deformable in the radial direction.

[0014] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is the connection structure of the fourth aspect, wherein the fitting piece has a fitting projection that protrudes radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the second connecting pipe, and the first fitting portion, in a fitted state in which the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are fitted together, has a second projection adjacent to the fitting projection on one side in the circumferential direction and a third projection adjacent to the other side in the circumferential direction.

[0015] According to the fifth embodiment described above, the fitting projection provided on the fitting piece of the second fitting portion crosses over the first projection of the first fitting portion in the axial direction, thereby causing the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion to fit together. Furthermore, in the fitted state in which the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are fitted together, the second projection and the third projection of the first fitting portion are positioned on one side and the other side of the fitting projection in the circumferential direction of the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe, thereby restricting the relative rotation of the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe in the circumferential direction.

[0016] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is the connection structure of the fifth aspect, wherein the first projection and the second projection of the first fitting portion are positioned to overlap radially with respect to the first notch and the second notch of the second fitting portion in the fitted state.

[0017] According to the sixth aspect described above, in the fitted state in which the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are fitted together, when the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe are viewed radially from the outside, the first projection and the second projection of the first fitting portion can be visually seen through the first notch and the second notch of the second fitting portion. This makes it possible to visually confirm from the outside that the connection state of the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe is the fitted state in which the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are fitted together.

[0018] A seventh aspect of the present disclosure is a connection structure according to the fifth or sixth aspect, wherein the side wall surface of the fitting projection opposite to the second notch in the circumferential direction includes an inclined surface such that the radial height decreases as it approaches the circumferential end.

[0019] According to the seventh embodiment described above, when the second connecting pipe is rotated circumferentially with respect to the first connecting pipe so that the side wall surface including the inclined surface of the fitting projection moves toward the third projection of the first fitting portion, the inclined surface of the fitting projection comes into contact with the third projection and slides toward the third projection. This makes it easier for the fitting piece to elastically deform radially outward, allowing the fitting projection to overcome the third projection in the circumferential direction, and thus easily releases the restriction on relative circumferential rotation between the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe.

[0020] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is a connection structure according to any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, wherein the circumferential side wall surface of the third projection adjacent to the first projection includes an inclined surface such that the radial height decreases as it approaches the circumferential end of the third projection.

[0021] According to the eighth aspect described above, when the second connecting pipe is rotated circumferentially with respect to the first connecting pipe so as to move the fitting projection of the fitting piece toward the side wall surface including the inclined surface of the third projection of the first fitting portion, the inclined surface of the third projection comes into contact with the fitting projection, and the fitting projection slides against the inclined surface of the third projection. This makes it easier for the fitting projection to elastically deform the fitting piece radially outward, allowing it to overcome the third projection in the circumferential direction, and thus easily releases the restriction on relative circumferential rotation between the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe.

[0022] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure is a connection structure according to any one of the fifth to eighth aspects, wherein the front end surface of the fitting projection on the tip side of the second connecting pipe includes an inclined surface such that the radial height decreases as it approaches the tip of the second connecting pipe.

[0023] According to the ninth aspect described above, when the first connection pipe is inserted axially inside the second connection pipe and the second fitting portion is fitted to the first fitting portion, the inclined surface included in the front wall surface of the fitting protrusion provided on the fitting piece facilitates the fitting piece to straddle over the first protrusion of the first fitting portion in the axial direction.

[0024] A tenth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in the connection structure of any one of the first to ninth aspects described above, the front wall surface of the first protrusion facing the distal end side of the first connection pipe includes an inclined surface inclined such that the height in the radial direction decreases as it approaches the distal end of the first connection pipe.

[0025] According to the tenth aspect described above, when the first connection pipe is inserted axially inside the second connection pipe and the second fitting portion is fitted to the first fitting portion, the inclined surface included in the front wall surface of the first protrusion of the first fitting portion facilitates the fitting piece of the second fitting portion to straddle over the first protrusion in the axial direction.

[0026] An eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is that, in the connection structure of any one of the first to tenth aspects described above, an elastic member is further provided between the distal end of the first connection pipe and the proximal end portion on the opposite side of the distal end of the second connection pipe.

[0027] According to the eleventh aspect described above, in a state where the distal end of the first connection pipe is inserted axially from the distal end to the proximal end inside the second connection pipe, the elastic member disposed between the distal end of the first connection pipe and the proximal end portion of the second connection pipe seals the space between the first connection pipe and the second connection pipe, suppressing air leakage.

[0028] A twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is that, in the connection structure of any one of the first to eleventh aspects described above, in the first connection pipe or the second connection pipe to which the air conditioning passage member is attached on the outer periphery, the first fitting portion or the second fitting portion is provided on the distal end side of the first connection pipe or the second connection pipe with respect to the end portion of the air conditioning passage member.

[0029] According to the 12th embodiment described above, the first fitting portion can be exposed from the air conditioning member while the end of the air conditioning member is attached to the outer circumference of the first connecting pipe. Alternatively, the second fitting portion can be exposed from the air conditioning member while the end of the air conditioning member is attached to the outer circumference of the second connecting pipe. Therefore, the connection state of the first fitting portion of the first connecting pipe and the second fitting portion of the second connecting pipe can be visually confirmed from the outside.

[0030] A thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a connection structure according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, further comprising a sealing tape that seals the gap between the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe when the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are fitted together.

[0031] According to the 13th embodiment described above, when the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are fitted together, a sealing tape is used to seal the gap between the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe, thereby suppressing air leakage from the gap between the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe.

[0032] A fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a connection structure according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, wherein a plurality of first fitting portions are provided on the first connecting pipe at intervals in the circumferential direction, and a plurality of second fitting portions are provided on the second connecting pipe at intervals in the circumferential direction, corresponding to the plurality of first fitting portions.

[0033] According to the 14th embodiment described above, the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe can be more firmly connected by simultaneously engaging multiple first fitting parts and multiple second fitting parts. Furthermore, the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe can be easily separated by simultaneously disengaging multiple first fitting parts and multiple second fitting parts. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0034] [Figure 1] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of an embodiment of the connection structure relating to this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of the first connecting pipe that constitutes the connection structure in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the second connecting pipe that constitutes the connection structure in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figures 2 and 3 show axial cross-sectional views of the first and second connecting pipes before connection. [Figure 5] This is an enlarged view of the main parts of the first and second connecting pipes in Figure 4, seen from the radial outside. [Figure 6] Figures 2 and 3 show axial cross-sectional views after the connection of the first and second connecting pipes. [Figure 7] This is an enlarged view of the main parts of the first and second connecting pipes in Figure 6, seen from the radial outside. [Figure 8] This is a radial cross-sectional view of the first and second connecting pipes along the line VIII-VIII in Figure 7. [Figure 9] This is an enlarged view of the first and second connecting pipes after they have been disconnected, seen from the radial outside. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments of the connection structure relating to this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0036] Figure 1 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing an example of an embodiment of the connection structure according to this disclosure. The connection structure CS of this embodiment is a structure for connecting an air conditioning unit AC and an air conditioning duct member DC. In the example shown in Figure 1, the air conditioning unit AC is a ventilation device equipped with a total heat exchanger, and the air conditioning duct member DC is a duct connected to the ventilation device. The air conditioning unit AC and the air conditioning duct member DC are installed, for example, in the space above the ceiling C that partitions the space above the indoor space IDS, which is the space OCS above the ceiling.

[0037] The connection structure CS connects, for example, an air conditioning channel member DC for taking in outside air, which is connected to the building's outside air vent, to the air supply inlet of the air conditioning unit AC. The connection structure CS also connects, for example, the air supply outlet of the air conditioning unit AC to an air supply air conditioning channel member DC connected to the air supply vent in the ceiling C. The connection structure CS also connects, for example, an air conditioning channel member DC for ventilation, which is connected to the ventilation opening in the ceiling C, to the exhaust inlet of the air conditioning unit AC. The connection structure CS also connects, for example, the exhaust outlet of the air conditioning unit AC to an air conditioning channel member DC for exhaust, which is connected to the building's exhaust vent.

[0038] Furthermore, the air conditioning system (AC) is not limited to ventilation systems, but may also include ceiling-mounted air conditioners, humidified outdoor air processing units, etc. Additionally, the air conditioning system (AC) may be installed in an indoor space (IDS) that does not have an overhead space (OCS), such as a skeleton ceiling.

[0039] The connection structure CS is provided on one and the other of the air conditioning unit AC and the air conditioning duct member DC, respectively, and includes a first connecting pipe 1 and a second connecting pipe 2 that connect the air conditioning unit AC and the air conditioning duct member DC. In the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the first connecting pipe 1 is provided on the air conditioning unit AC, and the second connecting pipe 2 is provided on the air conditioning duct member DC. Specifically, the first connecting pipe 1 is attached to the side wall of the air conditioning unit AC, and the second connecting pipe 2 is attached to the end of the air conditioning duct member DC. Note that, contrary to the example shown in Figure 1, the second connecting pipe 2 may be provided on the air conditioning unit AC and the first connecting pipe 1 may be provided on the air conditioning duct member DC.

[0040] Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2, respectively, which constitute the connection structure CS in Figure 1.

[0041] As shown in Figure 1, when the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 of the connection structure CS are connected, the central axis C1 of the first connecting pipe 1 and the central axis C2 of the second connecting pipe 2 roughly coincide. Therefore, in the following, the axial direction AD1 along the central axis C1 of the first connecting pipe 1 and the axial direction AD2 along the central axis C1 of the second connecting pipe 2 will be collectively described as the axial direction AD of the connection structure CS.

[0042] Similarly, the circumferential direction CD1 of the first connecting pipe 1 and the circumferential direction CD2 of the second connecting pipe 2 are collectively described as the circumferential direction CD of the connection structure CS. Furthermore, the radial direction of the first connecting pipe 1 perpendicular to its central axis C1 and the radial direction of the second connecting pipe 2 perpendicular to its central axis C2 are collectively described as the radial direction RD of the connection structure CS (see Figures 4 and 6).

[0043] In the first connecting pipe 1 shown in Figure 2, for example, the diameter D1a of the tip 1a is smaller than the diameter D1b of the base end 1b on the opposite side in the axial direction AD. Similarly, in the second connecting pipe 2 shown in Figure 3, the diameter D2a of the tip 2a is larger than the diameter D2b of the base end 2b on the opposite side in the axial direction AD. In other words, the first connecting pipe 1 is a tapered pipe with a narrower tip 1a than the base end 1b, and the second connecting pipe 2 is a reverse tapered pipe with a wider tip 2a than the base end 2b. Note that the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 do not necessarily have to be tapered pipes or reverse tapered pipes; both may be straight pipes.

[0044] As shown in Figure 2, the first connecting pipe 1 has a first fitting portion 11. The first connecting pipe 1 has, for example, a plurality of first fitting portions 11 provided at intervals in the circumferential direction CD. In the example shown in Figure 2, four first fitting portions 11 are provided at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction CD on the outer circumferential surface OS1 of the base end portion 1b of the first connecting pipe 1. The number of first fitting portions 11 in the first connecting pipe 1 is not particularly limited and may be one, two, three, or five or more.

[0045] The first fitting portion 11 includes a first projection 111. The first projection 111 protrudes outward from the outer circumferential surface OS1 of the first connecting pipe 1 in the radial direction RD of the first connecting pipe 1. For example, the first projection 111 extends linearly in the circumferential direction CD along the outer circumferential surface OS1 of the first connecting pipe 1. The height of the first projection 111 in the radial direction RD of the first connecting pipe 1, with respect to the outer circumferential surface OS1 of the first connecting pipe 1, is approximately constant in the circumferential direction CD.

[0046] Furthermore, the first fitting portion 11 may further have, for example, a second projection 112 and a third projection 113 that project radially outward from the outer circumferential surface OS1 of the first connecting pipe 1. The second projection 112 extends axially AD from one end of the first projection 111 in the circumferential direction CD to the base end PS1 opposite to the tip end DS1 of the first connecting pipe 1. As a result, the first projection 111 and the second projection 112 have an L-shape when viewed from the radial direction RD.

[0047] The third projection 113 has an axial distance AD ​​between it and the first projection 111. Furthermore, the third projection 113 is adjacent to the other end of the first projection 111 opposite to the end of the first projection 111 on which the second projection 112 is provided, in the circumferential direction CD. The side wall surface 113s of the third projection 113 adjacent to the first projection 111 in the circumferential direction CD includes, for example, an inclined surface such that its radial height decreases as it approaches the end of the third projection 113 in the circumferential direction CD. In the example shown in Figure 2, the entire side wall surface 113s is an inclined surface, but it may be only partially inclined.

[0048] As shown in Figure 3, the second connecting pipe 2 has a second fitting portion 21. The second connecting pipe 2 has, for example, a plurality of second fitting portions 21 that are spaced apart in the circumferential direction CD, corresponding to the plurality of first fitting portions 11 of the first connecting pipe 1 shown in Figure 2. In the example shown in Figure 3, four second fitting portions 21 are provided at the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2 at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction CD, corresponding to the four first fitting portions 11 of the first connecting pipe 1.

[0049] As shown in Figure 1, the second fitting portion 21 is located on the tip side DS2 of the second connecting pipe 2, beyond the end of the air conditioning member DC attached to the outer circumference of the second connecting pipe 2. Conversely to the example shown in Figure 1, when the air conditioning member DC is attached to the outer circumference of the first connecting pipe 1, the first fitting portion 11 of the first connecting pipe 1 shown in Figure 2 is located on the tip side DS1 of the first connecting pipe 1, beyond the end of the air conditioning member DC. In other words, in the first connecting pipe 1 or the second connecting pipe 2, to which the air conditioning member DC is attached on the outer circumference, the first fitting portion 11 or the second fitting portion 21 is located on the tip side DS1, DS2 of the first connecting pipe 1 or the second connecting pipe 2, beyond the end of the air conditioning member DC.

[0050] As shown in Figure 3, the second fitting portion 21 of the second connecting pipe 2 includes a fitting piece 213. The fitting piece 213 is provided at the tip 2a in the axial direction AD of the second connecting pipe 2 in a cantilevered manner extending in the circumferential direction CD, thereby being elastically deformable in the radial direction RD.

[0051] Furthermore, the second fitting portion 21 may further have, for example, a first notch 211 and a second notch 212. The first notch 211 extends circumferentially in the direction CD along one side of the fitting piece 213 opposite to the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2. The second notch 212 extends axially in the direction AD along the tip 213a of the fitting piece 213 from the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2 to the end of the first notch 211. The first notch 211 and the second notch 212 are formed in an L-shape extending circumferentially in the direction CD and axially in the direction AD at the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2, thereby forming a cantilevered fitting piece 213 extending circumferentially in the direction CD at the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2.

[0052] Furthermore, the fitting piece 213 has a fitting projection 214 that protrudes inward in the radial direction RD from the inner circumferential surface IS2 of the second connecting pipe 2, for example. The fitting projection 214 has a front end surface 214f ​​on the tip side DS2 of the axial direction AD in the second connecting pipe 2, for example. The front end surface 214f ​​of the fitting projection 214 includes an inclined surface that is sloped such that the height of the radial direction RD from the inner circumferential surface IS2 of the second connecting pipe 2 decreases as it approaches the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2. In the example shown in Figure 3, the entire front end surface 214f ​​of the fitting projection 214 is an inclined surface.

[0053] Furthermore, the fitting projection 214 has, for example, a side wall surface 214s on the side opposite to the second notch 212 in the circumferential direction CD. The side wall surface 214s includes an inclined surface such that the height of the radial RD from the inner circumferential surface IS2 of the second connecting pipe 2 decreases as it approaches the end of the fitting projection 214 in the circumferential direction CD. In the example shown in Figure 3, the entire side wall surface 214s of the fitting projection 214 is an inclined surface.

[0054] In the example shown in Figure 2, the first connecting pipe 1 has a flange 12 at its base end 1b, which is opposite to its tip 1a in the axial direction AD. The flange 12 is provided in an annular shape, projecting outward in the radial direction RD from the base end 1b of the first connecting pipe 1. The flange 12 has, for example, a plurality of through holes. The flange 12 is fixed to the air conditioning unit AC by fastening members such as bolts inserted through the through holes. Note that the first connecting pipe 1 does not have to have a flange 12. In that case, the first connecting pipe 1 may be fixed to the air conditioning unit AC by, for example, welding.

[0055] In the example shown in Figure 3, the base end 2b of the second connecting pipe 2 has an annular rim 22 that protrudes inward in the radial direction RD. The rim 22 faces the tip 1a of the first connecting pipe 1 when the first connecting pipe 1 is inserted axially AD into the second connecting pipe 2 from the opening at the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2, and the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 are fitted together to connect the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2. Note that the second connecting pipe 2 does not necessarily have to have a rim 22.

[0056] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along the axial direction AD showing the state of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 before connection in Figures 2 and 3. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the first fitting portion 11 of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second fitting portion 21 of the second connecting pipe 2 shown in Figure 4, viewed from the outside in the radial direction RD.

[0057] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along the axial direction AD showing the state after the connection of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 as shown in Figures 2 and 3. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the first fitting portion 11 of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second fitting portion 21 of the second connecting pipe 2 as shown in Figure 6, viewed from the outside in the radial direction RD. Note that the sealing tape ST shown in Figure 6 is not shown in Figure 7.

[0058] As shown in Figure 1, the connection structure CS of this embodiment connects the air conditioning unit AC and the air conditioning path member DC via, for example, a first connecting pipe 1 provided in the air conditioning unit AC and a second connecting pipe 2 provided in the air conditioning path member DC.

[0059] When connecting the air conditioning unit AC and the air conditioning path member DC, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the first connecting pipe 1 is inserted into the inside of the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2 from the tip 1a in the axial direction AD (arrow A1). At this time, the fitting piece 213 of the second fitting part 21 is elastically deformed outward in the radial direction RD by the first projection 111 of the first fitting part 11, and the first projection 111 is overcome by the axial direction AD. As a result, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the first fitting part 11 and the second fitting part 21 fit together and restrict the relative movement of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 in the axial direction AD.

[0060] In the examples shown in Figures 4 and 5, the front wall surface 111f of the first projection 111 facing the tip side DS1 of the first connecting pipe 1 includes an inclined surface such that the height of the radial RD decreases as it approaches the tip 1a of the first connecting pipe 1. For example, the front wall surface 111f has an inclined surface at the tip of the first projection 111. The entire front wall surface 111f may be an inclined surface as described above.

[0061] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the state in which the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 are fitted together is referred to as the fitted state of the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21. In this fitted state, the first fitting portion 11 has a second projection 112 adjacent to the fitting projection 214 provided on the fitting piece 213 of the second fitting portion 21 on one side in the circumferential direction CD, and a third projection 113 adjacent to the fitting projection 214 on the other side in the circumferential direction CD. As a result, the fitting projection 214 is located between the second projection 112 and the third projection 113 in the circumferential direction CD.

[0062] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, in the fitted state of the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21, the first projection 111 and the second projection 112 of the first fitting portion 11 are positioned to overlap radially RD with respect to the first notch 211 and the second notch 212 of the second fitting portion 21. As a result, in the fitted state of the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 of the connection structure CS, the first projection 111 and the second projection 112 of the first fitting portion 11 can be visually observed from the outside through the first notch 211 and the second notch 212 of the second fitting portion 21.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the connection structure CS may further include an elastic member EM. The elastic member EM is positioned, for example, between the tip 1a of the first connecting pipe 1 and the base end 2b of the second connecting pipe 2 opposite to the tip 2a. Specifically, in the fitted state of the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21, the elastic member EM is elastically compressed between the rim 22 provided on the base end 2b of the second connecting pipe 2 and the tip 1a of the first connecting pipe 1. As the material of the elastic member EM, for example, a sheet of urethane foam or urethane rubber can be used.

[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the connection structure CS may further include, for example, a sealing tape ST. The sealing tape ST seals the space between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 when the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 are fitted together. In the example shown in Figure 6, the sealing tape ST is, for example, an airtight adhesive tape. The sealing tape ST is, for example, wrapped around the entire circumference of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 so as to cover the entire second fitting portion 21 and close the gap between the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2 and the outer surface OS1 of the first connecting pipe 1. Note that the sealing tape ST may be omitted.

[0065] Figure 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the radial RD of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 along the line VIII-VIII in Figure 7. Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 after disconnection, as seen from outside the radial RD.

[0066] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, when the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 are fitted together and the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 are connected, the connection between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 can be released by, for example, following the procedure below. First, if sealing tape ST is wound around the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2, peel off and remove the sealing tape ST from the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2.

[0067] Next, as shown in Figure 8, the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 are rotated relative to each other in the circumferential direction CD. At this time, the direction of rotation of the second connecting pipe 2 relative to the first connecting pipe 1 is such that the fitting projection 214 provided on the fitting piece 213 of the second connecting pipe 2 is moved toward the third projection 113 provided on the first connecting pipe 1, as shown by arrow A2 in Figure 8. As a result, the fitting projection 214 of the fitting piece 213 rides up onto the third projection 113, and the fitting piece 213 elastically deforms outward in the radial direction RD. Then, the fitting projection 214 crosses over the third projection 113 in the direction of arrow A2 along the circumferential direction CD.

[0068] As a result, as shown in Figure 9, the mating state of the first mating portion 11 and the second mating portion 21 is released, and the connection between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 is released. In this unmatted state, where the mating of the first mating portion 11 and the second mating portion 21 is released, the first projection 111 of the first mating portion 11 and the mating piece 213 of the second mating portion 21 are aligned in the circumferential direction CD and are in positions that do not overlap each other in the axial direction AD. In addition, the mating projection 214 provided on the mating piece 213 of the second mating portion 21 is located outside the second projection 112 and the third projection 113 of the first mating portion 11 that are adjacent in the circumferential direction CD. In this unmatted state, by moving the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 relative to each other in the axial direction AD, the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 can be separated, and the air conditioning path member DC can be removed from the air conditioning unit AC.

[0069] The operation of the connection structure CS in this embodiment will be explained below.

[0070] As described above, the connection structure CS of this embodiment comprises a first connecting pipe 1 and a second connecting pipe 2. The first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 are provided on one and the other of the air conditioning unit AC and the air conditioning path member DC, respectively, and connect the air conditioning unit AC and the air conditioning path member DC. The first connecting pipe 1 has a first fitting portion 11, and the second connecting pipe 2 has a second fitting portion 21. The first fitting portion 11 includes a first projection 111 that protrudes outward in the radial direction RD from the outer peripheral surface OS1 of the first connecting pipe 1. The second fitting portion 21 includes a fitting piece 213 that is cantilevered at the tip 2a in the axial direction AD of the second connecting pipe 2 and extends in the circumferential direction CD, and is elastically deformable in the radial direction RD. The first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 engage with each other when the first connecting pipe 1 is inserted into the second connecting pipe 2 from its tip 1a in the axial direction AD. The fitting piece 213 is elastically deformed radially outward by the first projection 111, causing it to overcome the first projection 111 in the axial direction AD. The mutually engaged first fitting portion 11 and second fitting portion 21 restrict the relative movement of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 in the axial direction AD.

[0071] This configuration provides a connection structure CS that allows the connection status to be visually confirmed from the outside. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, when connecting the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2, the first connecting pipe 1 is inserted into the second connecting pipe 2 from its tip 1a in the axial direction AD. Then, the fitting piece 213 provided on the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2 and the first projection 111 of the first fitting portion 11 provided on the outer peripheral surface OS1 of the first connecting pipe 1 are brought closer together in the axial direction AD. As a result, the fitting piece 213 comes into contact with the first projection 111 and is elastically deformed outward in the radial direction RD, so that it crosses over the first projection 111 in the axial direction AD, as shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0072] As a result, the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 are engaged, and the relative movement of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 in the axial direction AD is restricted. At this time, as shown in Figures 5 and 7, the fitting piece 213, which is cantilevered and extends in the circumferential direction CD from the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2, crosses over the first projection 111 in the axial direction AD, and the process of changing from a non-engaged state to an engaged state can be visually confirmed from the radial outside of the connection structure CS. Therefore, according to this embodiment, a connection structure CS can be provided in which the engaged state and non-engaged state, which are the connection states of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2, can be visually confirmed from the outside.

[0073] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the first connecting pipe 1 is provided in the air conditioning unit AC, and the second connecting pipe 2 is provided in the air conditioning path member DC.

[0074] With this configuration, by inserting the first connecting pipe 1, provided in the air conditioning unit AC, into the second connecting pipe 2, provided in the air conditioning passage member DC, from its tip 1a in the axial direction AD, the first fitting portion 11 of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second fitting portion 21 of the second connecting pipe 2 can be fitted together. This allows the air conditioning passage member DC to be connected to the air conditioning unit AC via the connection structure CS.

[0075] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the diameter D1a of the tip 1a of the first connecting pipe 1 is smaller than the diameter D1b of the base end 1b on the opposite side in the axial direction AD. Also, the diameter D2a of the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2 is larger than the diameter D2b of the base end 2b on the opposite side in the axial direction AD.

[0076] This configuration allows the base end portion 2b, which has a smaller diameter D2b than the tip 2a of the inversely tapered second connecting pipe 2, to be inserted into the air conditioning duct member DC when attaching the second connecting pipe 2 to the air conditioning duct member DC. This makes it easy to attach the second connecting pipe 2 to air conditioning duct members DC of various diameters. Furthermore, the tip 1a, which has a smaller diameter D1a than the base end portion 1b of the tapered first connecting pipe 1 attached to the air conditioning unit AC, can be easily inserted into the inversely tapered second connecting pipe 2.

[0077] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the second fitting portion 21 has a first notch 211 and a second notch 212. The first notch 211 extends circumferentially in the direction CD along one side of the fitting piece 213 opposite to the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2. The second notch 212 extends axially in the direction AD along the tip 213a of the fitting piece 213 from the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2 to the first notch 211.

[0078] With this configuration, by forming a first notch 211 and a second notch 212 in the second connecting pipe 2, a fitting piece 213 can be formed at the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2 in the axial direction AD, extending in the circumferential direction CD in a cantilevered manner and elastically deformable in the radial direction RD.

[0079] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the fitting piece 213 has a fitting projection 214 that protrudes inward in the radial direction RD from the inner circumferential surface IS2 of the second connecting pipe 2. In the fitted state in which the first fitting piece 11 and the second fitting piece 21 are fitted together, the first fitting piece 11 has a second projection 112 adjacent to the fitting projection 214 on one side in the circumferential direction CD, and a third projection 113 adjacent to the other side in the circumferential direction CD.

[0080] In this configuration, the fitting projection 214 provided on the fitting piece 213 of the second fitting portion 21 crosses over the first fitting portion 11 of the first fitting portion 11 in the axial direction AD, thereby causing the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 to engage with each other. Furthermore, in the engaged state where the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 are engaged, as shown in Figure 8, the second projection 112 and the third projection 113 of the first fitting portion 11 are positioned on one side and the other side of the fitting projection 214 in the circumferential direction CD. This restricts the relative rotation of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 in the circumferential direction CD, thereby preventing the engagement of the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 from being unexpectedly released.

[0081] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the first projection 111 and the second projection 112 of the first fitting portion 11 are positioned to overlap radially RD with respect to the first notch 211 and the second notch 212 of the second fitting portion 21 when the fitting is performed.

[0082] This configuration allows the fitted state of the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 to be visually confirmed from the outside. Specifically, when the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 are viewed radially RD from the outside, the first projection 111 and the second projection 112 of the first fitting portion 11 can be visually confirmed through the first notch 211 and the second notch 212 of the second fitting portion 21. This allows the connection state of the first connecting pipe and the second connecting pipe to be visually confirmed from the outside to be in a fitted state.

[0083] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the side wall surface 214s of the fitting projection 214 on the side opposite to the second notch 212 in the circumferential CD includes an inclined surface such that the height of the radial RD decreases as it approaches the end of the circumferential CD.

[0084] This configuration makes it easy to release the restriction on the relative rotation of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 in the circumferential direction CD by the fitting projection 214 and the third projection 113. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the second connecting pipe 2 is rotated in the circumferential direction CD relative to the first connecting pipe 1 so that the side wall surface 214s, including the inclined surface of the fitting projection 214, moves toward the third projection 113 of the first fitting portion 11.

[0085] As a result, the side wall surface 214s of the fitting projection 214 comes into contact with the third projection 113 and slides relative to the third projection 113. This elastically deforms the fitting piece 213 outward in the radial direction RD, making it easier for the fitting projection 214 to overcome the third projection 113 in the circumferential direction CD, and thus easily releases the restriction on the relative rotation of the circumferential direction CD between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2.

[0086] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the side wall surface 113s of the circumferential CD of the third projection 113 adjacent to the first projection 111 includes an inclined surface such that the height of the radial RD decreases as it approaches the end of the circumferential CD of the third projection 113.

[0087] This configuration makes it easy to release the restriction on the relative rotation of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 in the circumferential direction CD by the fitting projection 214 and the third projection 113. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the second connecting pipe 2 is rotated in the circumferential direction CD relative to the first connecting pipe 1 so that the fitting projection 214 of the fitting piece 213 moves toward the side wall surface 113s including the inclined surface of the third projection 113 of the first fitting portion 11.

[0088] As a result, the side wall surface 113s of the third projection 113 comes into contact with the fitting projection 214, and the fitting projection 214 slides against the side wall surface 113s of the third projection 113. This elastically deforms the fitting piece 213 outward in the radial direction RD, making it easier for the fitting projection 214 to cross over the third projection 113 in the circumferential direction CD, and thus easily releases the restriction on the relative rotation of the circumferential direction CD between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2.

[0089] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the front end surface 214f ​​of the tip side DS2 of the second connecting pipe 2 in the fitting projection 214 includes an inclined surface such that the height of the radial RD decreases as it approaches the tip 2a of the second connecting pipe 2.

[0090] This configuration makes it easier for the fitting piece 213 to overcome the first projection 111 of the first fitting piece 11 in the axial direction AD when the first connecting pipe 1 is inserted into the second connecting pipe 2 in the axial direction AD and the second fitting piece 21 is fitted into the first fitting piece 11. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the first connecting pipe 1 is inserted into the second connecting pipe 2 in the axial direction AD and the front end surface 214f ​​of the fitting projection 214 abuts against the first projection 111. Then, the front end surface 214f ​​of the fitting projection 214 slides against the first projection 111, and the fitting projection 214 rides up onto the first projection 111. This facilitates the elastic deformation of the fitting piece 213 outward in the radial direction RD, making it easier for the fitting piece 213 to overcome the first projection 111 of the first fitting piece 11 in the axial direction AD.

[0091] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, the front wall surface 111f of the first projection 111 facing the tip side DS1 of the first connecting pipe 1 includes an inclined surface that is inclined such that the height of the radial RD decreases as it approaches the tip 1a of the first connecting pipe 1.

[0092] This configuration makes it easier for the fitting piece 213 of the second fitting portion 21 to overcome the first projection 111 of the first projection 111 in the axial direction AD. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the first connecting pipe 1 is inserted axially AD into the inside of the second connecting pipe 2, and the second fitting portion 21 is fitted into the first fitting portion 11. At this time, the inclined surface of the front wall surface 111f of the first projection 111 comes into contact with the fitting projection 214 of the fitting piece 213, causing the fitting projection 214 to slide. This makes it easier for the fitting projection 214 to ride up onto the first projection 111, facilitating the elastic deformation of the fitting piece 213 outward in the radial direction RD, and thus making it easier for the fitting piece 213 to overcome the first projection 111 in the axial direction AD.

[0093] Furthermore, the connection structure CS of this embodiment further includes an elastic member EM disposed between the tip 1a of the first connecting pipe 1 and the base end 2b of the second connecting pipe 2 on the opposite side of the tip 2a.

[0094] In this configuration, the space between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 is sealed by the elastic member EM, suppressing air leakage. Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, with the tip 1a of the first connecting pipe 1 inserted axially AD from the tip to the base end inside the second connecting pipe 2, the elastic member EM is placed between the tip of the first connecting pipe 1 and the base end 2b of the second connecting pipe 2. This elastic member EM seals the space between the tip 2a of the first connecting pipe 1 and the base end 2b of the second connecting pipe 2, suppressing air leakage.

[0095] Furthermore, in the connection structure CS of this embodiment, in the first connecting pipe 1 or the second connecting pipe 2 to which the air conditioning passage member DC is attached on the outer circumference, the first fitting portion 11 or the second fitting portion 21 is provided on the tip side DS1, DS2 of the first connecting pipe 1 or the second connecting pipe 2, rather than on the end of the air conditioning passage member DC.

[0096] This configuration allows the second fitting portion 21 to be exposed from the air conditioning member DC when the end of the air conditioning member DC is attached to the outer circumference of the second connecting pipe 2. Furthermore, when the air conditioning member DC is attached to the outer circumference of the first connecting pipe 1, the first projection 111 can also be exposed from the air conditioning member DC. Therefore, the connection status between the first fitting portion 11 of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second fitting portion 21 of the second connecting pipe 2 can be visually confirmed from the outside.

[0097] Furthermore, the connection structure CS of this embodiment further includes a sealing tape ST that seals the gap between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 when the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 are fitted together.

[0098] With this configuration, when the first fitting portion 11 and the second fitting portion 21 are fitted together, the sealing tape ST seals the gap between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2, thereby suppressing air leakage from the gap between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the connection structure CS has a plurality of first fitting portions 11 provided at intervals along the circumferential CD of the first connecting pipe 1, and a plurality of second fitting portions 21 provided at intervals along the circumferential CD of the second connecting pipe 2, corresponding to the plurality of first fitting portions 11.

[0100] This configuration allows for a stronger connection between the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2 by simultaneously engaging multiple first fitting parts 11 and multiple second fitting parts 21. Furthermore, the engagement of multiple first fitting parts 11 and multiple second fitting parts 21 can be simultaneously released, allowing for easy separation of the first connecting pipe 1 and the second connecting pipe 2.

[0101] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications or substitutions can be applied to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, features described separately can be combined as long as no technical inconsistencies arise. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0102] 1. First connecting pipe 1a Tip 11 First mating section 111 1st protrusion 111f front wall 112 2nd protrusion 113 Third protrusion 113s Side wall 2. Second connecting pipe 2a tip 2b Proximal end 21 Second fitting section 211 1st notch 212 2nd notch 213 Fitting piece 214 Attachment projection 214f Front end 214s Side wall 213a Tip AC air conditioner AD Axial direction CD circumferential direction D1a diameter D1b diameter D2a diameter D2b diameter DC air conditioning duct components DS1 tip side DS2 tip side EM elastic member IS2 inner surface OS1 outer surface RD radial direction ST Sealing Tape

Claims

1. The air conditioning unit (AC) and the air conditioning duct member (DC) are provided with a first connecting pipe (1) and a second connecting pipe (2) respectively, which connect the air conditioning unit (AC) and the air conditioning duct member (DC). The first connecting pipe (1) has a first fitting portion (11) which includes a first projection (111) that protrudes radially (RD) outward from the outer circumferential surface (OS1), The second connecting pipe (2) has a second fitting portion (21) which includes a fitting piece (213) that is cantilevered at its tip (2a) in the axial direction (AD) and extends in the circumferential direction (CD), and is elastically deformable in the radial direction (RD). The first fitting portion (11) and the second fitting portion (21) engage with each other when the first connecting pipe (1) is inserted into the second connecting pipe (2) from its tip (1a) in the axial direction (AD), by the first projection (111) causing the fitting piece (213) to be elastically deformed outward in the radial direction (RD), thereby overriding the first projection (111) in the axial direction (AD), thereby restricting the relative movement of the first connecting pipe (1) and the second connecting pipe (2) in the axial direction (AD). Connection structure (CS).

2. The first connecting pipe (1) is provided in the air conditioning unit (AC), The second connecting pipe (2) is provided in the air conditioning passage member (DC), The connection structure (CS) according to claim 1.

3. The first connecting pipe (1) has a diameter (D1a) at its tip (1a) that is smaller than the diameter (D1b) at its base end (1b) on the opposite side in the axial direction (AD). The second connecting pipe (2) has a diameter (D2a) at its tip (2a) that is larger than the diameter (D2b) at its base end (2b) on the opposite side in the axial direction (AD). The connection structure (CS) according to claim 2.

4. The second fitting portion (21) has a first notch (211) extending in the circumferential direction (CD) along one side of the fitting piece (213) opposite to the tip (2a) of the second connecting pipe (2), and a second notch (212) extending in the axial direction (AD) along the tip (213a) of the fitting piece (213) from the tip (2a) of the second connecting pipe (2) to the first notch (211). The connection structure (CS) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The fitting piece (213) has a fitting projection (214) that protrudes inward in the radial direction (RD) from the inner circumferential surface (IS2) of the second connecting pipe (2), In the fitted state in which the first fitted portion (11) and the second fitted portion (21) are fitted together, the first fitting portion (11) has a second projection (112) adjacent to the fitting projection (214) on one side in the circumferential direction (CD), and a third projection (113) adjacent to the fitting projection (214) on the other side in the circumferential direction (CD). The connection structure (CS) according to claim 4.

6. The first projection (111) and the second projection (112) of the first fitting portion (11) are positioned to overlap in the radial direction (RD) with respect to the first notch (211) and the second notch (212) of the second fitting portion (21) in the fitted state. The connection structure (CS) according to claim 5.

7. The side wall surface (214s) of the fitting projection (214) on the side opposite to the second notch (212) in the circumferential direction (CD) includes an inclined surface such that the height in the radial direction (RD) decreases as it approaches the end in the circumferential direction (CD). The connection structure (CS) according to claim 5.

8. The circumferential (CD) side wall surface (113s) of the third projection (113) adjacent to the first projection (111) includes an inclined surface such that the radial (RD) height decreases as it approaches the circumferential (CD) end of the third projection (113). The connection structure (CS) according to claim 5.

9. The front end surface (214f) of the fitting projection (214) on the tip side (DS2) of the second connecting pipe (2) includes an inclined surface such that the height in the radial direction (RD) decreases as it approaches the tip (2a) of the second connecting pipe (2). The connection structure (CS) according to claim 5.

10. The front wall surface (111f) of the first projection (111) facing the tip side (DS1) of the first connecting pipe (1) includes an inclined surface that is inclined such that the height in the radial direction (RD) decreases as it approaches the tip (1a) of the first connecting pipe (1). The connection structure (CS) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

11. The device further comprises an elastic member (EM) positioned between the tip (1a) of the first connecting pipe (1) and the base end (2b) of the second connecting pipe (2) opposite to the tip (2a), The connection structure (CS) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

12. In the first connecting pipe (1) or the second connecting pipe (2) to which the air conditioning passage member (DC) is attached on its outer circumference, the first fitting portion (11) or the second fitting portion (21) is provided on the tip side (DS1, DS2) of the first connecting pipe (1) or the second connecting pipe (2) rather than the end of the air conditioning passage member (DC). The connection structure (CS) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

13. The device further includes a sealing tape (ST) that seals the gap between the first connecting pipe (1) and the second connecting pipe (2) when the first fitting portion (11) and the second fitting portion (21) are fitted together. The connection structure (CS) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

14. Multiple first fitting portions (11) are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction (CD) of the first connecting pipe (1), Multiple second fitting portions (21) are provided on the second connecting pipe (2) at intervals in the circumferential direction (CD), corresponding to multiple first fitting portions (11). The connection structure (CS) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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