Piping connection structure and connection member

Abstract

Provided is a piping connection structure comprising: a first connection member having a first cylindrical body, an insertion inlet section provided at one end of the first cylindrical body, a first piping connection section that is provided at the other end of the first cylindrical body and to which first piping is connected, and a first valve mechanism capable of opening and closing an internal flow passage in the first cylindrical body; a second connection member having a second cylindrical body, an inserted inlet section provided at one end of the second cylindrical body and inserted into the insertion inlet section, a second piping connection section that is provided at the other end of the second cylindrical body and to which second piping is connected, and a second valve mechanism capable of opening and closing an internal flow passage in the second cylindrical body; and an annular seal member that seals the interval between the inserted inlet section and the insertion inlet section as the result of an inner circumferential section being brought into contact with the inserted inlet section and an outer circumferential section being brought into contact with the insertion inlet section while in an insertion state in which the inserted inlet section is inserted in the insertion inlet section.

Description

Piping connection structure and connection member

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a pipe connection structure and a connection member.

[0002] BACKGROUND ART A pipe connection structure for connecting connecting members to which pipes are connected is known (see Japanese Patent No. 4158074).

[0003] The connecting member disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 4158074 includes a main body in which a ball valve is disposed and a pipe connection portion to which a pipe is connected. The main body and the pipe connection portion of this connecting member are configured to be rotatable relative to each other about an axis. An annular sealing surface is provided at the tip of the main body. This sealing surface comes into contact with the sealing surface of another connecting member, thereby sealing between the connecting members.

[0004] The technology disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 4158074 allows the pipe connection portion to rotate relative to the main body portion when the connection members are connected. Therefore, even if a torsional force acts on the pipe, the torsional force can be eliminated by rotating the pipe connection portion relative to the main body portion. However, the structure of the connection member is complicated in order to allow the pipe connection portion to rotate relative to the main body portion.

[0005] Furthermore, in the technology disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 4158074, the connection parts are sealed by bringing their respective sealing surfaces into contact with each other, but because the sealing is achieved by the force of the connection parts pressing against each other in the axial direction, it is difficult to apply uniform contact pressure in the circumferential direction to each sealing surface.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a technique for improving sealing performance while simplifying the structure of a connecting member.

[0007] a second connecting member having a second cylindrical body, an insertion port provided at one end of the second cylindrical body and inserted into the insertion port, a second pipe connection portion provided at the other end of the second cylindrical body and connected to a second pipe, and a second valve mechanism capable of opening and closing the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body; a ring-shaped sealing member disposed between the insertion port and the insertion port, the ring-shaped sealing member having an inner circumferential portion in contact with an outer circumferential surface of the insertion port and an outer circumferential portion in contact with an inner circumferential surface of the insertion port; and a locking mechanism that maintains the insertion port inserted into the insertion port and allows relative rotation around the axis of the first connecting member and the second connecting member.

[0008] A connecting member of another aspect of the present disclosure comprises a cylindrical body, an insertion port portion provided at one end of the cylindrical body and inserted into an insertion port portion provided on a connection target, an annular sealing member attached to the outer periphery of the insertion port portion and having an inner periphery contacting the outer periphery of the insertion port portion and an outer periphery contacting the inner periphery of the insertion port portion when the insertion port portion is inserted into the insertion port portion, thereby sealing between the insertion port portion and the insertion port portion, a piping connection portion provided at the other end of the cylindrical body and to which a piping is connected, and a valve mechanism capable of opening and closing the internal flow path of the cylindrical body.

[0009] As described above, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve the sealing performance while simplifying the structure of the connecting member.

[0010] 7 is a perspective view showing a state before a first connecting member and a second connecting member that constitute a piping connection structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are connected. FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a connected state of the first connecting member and the second connecting member shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a transverse sectional view (sectional view taken along arrow 3Y-3Y line in FIG. 2) showing a connected state of the first connecting member and the second connecting member shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is a side view showing a connected state of the first connecting member and the second connecting member shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a perspective view for explaining an operation of connecting the first connecting member and the second connecting member. FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along arrow 6Y-6Y line in FIG. 5. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a connected state of the first connecting member and the second connecting member. FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along arrow 8Y-8Y line in FIG. 7. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a connected state of the first connecting member and the second connecting member. FIG. 9 is a side view showing a connected state of the first connecting member and the second connecting member. FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along arrow 11Y-11Y line in FIG. 7. FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along arrow 12Y-12Y line in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective view of a main portion showing a state before an insertion opening portion of the second connecting member is inserted into an insertion opening portion of the first connecting member. 19 is an enlarged perspective view of essential parts showing a connected state between a first connecting member and a second connecting member. FIG. 19 is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of essential parts of a first connecting member constituting a pipe connection structure according to another embodiment. FIG. 19 is an enlarged perspective view of a first valve mechanism of the first connecting member of FIG. 15. FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a state in which an insertion opening portion of a second connecting member is inserted into an insertion receiving opening portion of a first connecting member. FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a state in which a locking member of the second connecting member shown in FIG. 17 is pushed to a second position, and an operating portion of the first connecting member and an operating portion of the second connecting member are rotated relative to their respective valve shafts. FIG. 19 is an enlarged side view of essential parts of a first connecting member and a second connecting member constituting a pipe connection structure according to another embodiment. FIG. 19 is a side view showing a connected state between the first connecting member and the second connecting member shown in FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is an enlarged plan view of essential parts of a first connecting member and a second connecting member constituting a pipe connection structure according to another embodiment. FIG. 19 is an enlarged transverse cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view taken along arrows 22Y-22Y in FIG. 19 ) of essential parts of a first connecting member and a second connecting member constituting a pipe connection structure according to another embodiment. FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a modified locking member used in a pipe connection structure according to another embodiment. 24 is an enlarged plan view of a main portion of a first connecting member and a second connecting member when the locking member of the modified example shown in FIG. 23 is applied to a pipe connection structure according to another embodiment. FIG.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Components indicated by the same reference numerals in each drawing are the same or similar components. Note that duplicated explanations and reference numerals may be omitted in the embodiments described below. Furthermore, all drawings used in the following description are schematic, and the dimensional relationships, ratios, etc. of each element shown in the drawings do not necessarily match those in reality. Furthermore, the dimensional relationships, ratios, etc. of each element between multiple drawings do not necessarily match.

[0012] [Pipe Connection Structure S1] FIGS. 1 to 14 show a pipe connection structure S1 (hereinafter, appropriately abbreviated as "connection structure S1") according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] The connection structure S1 of this embodiment is a structure for connecting a first pipe P1 and a second pipe P2. Specifically, the connection structure S1 is a structure for connecting the first pipe P1 and the second pipe P2 in a state in which the first pipe P1 and the second pipe P2 can rotate relative to each other about their axes. For example, a heat medium flows through the first pipe P1 and the second pipe P2.

[0014] The connection structure S1 includes a first connection member 20, a second connection member 40, a seal member 60, and a locking mechanism 80.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , a first pipe P1 (shown by a two-dot chain line in the figures) is connected to the first connecting member 20. Furthermore, a second pipe P2 (shown by a two-dot chain line in the figures) is connected to the second connecting member 40. By connecting the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40, the first pipe P1 and the second pipe P2 are connected via the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40. The seal member 60 functions to seal between the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40, which are connected to each other. In this embodiment, the seal member 60 is attached to the second connecting member 40, and therefore will be described as one of the components constituting the second connecting member 40. The locking mechanism 80 functions to maintain the connection between the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 and to allow relative rotation about the axis between the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40. The first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 will be described in detail below.

[0016] First Connecting Member 20 As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first connecting member 20 has a first cylindrical body 22 , an insertion receiving portion 26 , a first pipe connecting portion 28 , and a first valve mechanism 30 .

[0017] 2 and 3, the first cylindrical body 22 constitutes the main body of the first connecting member 20. An insertion receiving portion 26 is provided at one axial end of the first cylindrical body 22. Furthermore, a first pipe connecting portion 28 to which the first pipe P1 is connected is provided at the other axial end of the first cylindrical body 22.

[0018] In the following description, the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22 is indicated by an arrow X1.

[0019] 2 and 3 , a first valve element 32 (described in detail below) constituting the first valve mechanism 30 is disposed inside the first cylindrical body 22 (also referred to as an internal flow path). Specifically, a first housing portion 22A is provided inside the first cylindrical body 22 to house the first valve element 32. The first valve element 32 is rotatably housed in this first housing portion 22A. A large diameter portion 27 is provided between the insertion receiving portion 26 and the first pipe connecting portion 28 in the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22, and the inside of this large diameter portion 27 constitutes the first housing portion 22A.

[0020] In addition, a through hole 22B is formed in the large diameter portion 27 of the first cylindrical body 22, through which a first valve rod 34 (details will be described later) passes to rotate the first valve body 32 and open and close the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22.

[0021] In the wall surface 22C constituting the first housing portion 22A, seal grooves 22D are formed on both sides of the through hole 22B in the axial direction X1 of the first cylindrical body 22. Each seal groove 22D is continuous in the circumferential direction of the first cylindrical body 22. An annular seal member 23 is housed in each seal groove 22D. These seal members 23 contact the surface of the first valve body 32. In this embodiment, an O-ring having a circular cross-sectional shape is used as the seal member 23 as an example, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, a seal member having a polygonal cross-sectional shape may be used. An example of a seal member having a rectangular cross-sectional shape is a ball seat.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first cylindrical body 22 of this embodiment is composed of a cylindrical member 37 on the insertion receptacle 26 side and a cylindrical member 38 on the first piping connection portion 28 side. The first cylindrical body 22 is formed by assembling the cylindrical member 38 to the cylindrical member 37. The cylindrical member 37 includes the insertion receptacle 26 and a portion of the large diameter portion 27. The cylindrical member 38 includes the first piping connection portion 28 and the remaining portion of the large diameter portion 27. Specifically, the cylindrical member 37 includes a peripheral wall of the large diameter portion 27 and a side wall portion 37A connecting the peripheral wall to the base end of the insertion receptacle 26. The cylindrical member 38 also includes a flange portion 38A extending from the base end of the first piping connection portion 28. The flange portion 38A is fitted into an opening of the large diameter portion 27 on the side opposite the insertion receptacle 26. A circumferentially continuous groove 38B is formed around the periphery of the flange portion 38A. An O-ring 38C is placed in this groove 38B. The O-ring 38C is disposed between the bottom surface of the groove 38B in the flange portion 38A and the inner circumferential surface of the large diameter portion 27, and provides a seal between the flange portion 38A and the large diameter portion 27.

[0023] 1 to 3 and 6 , the insertion receptacle 26 is provided at one end of the first cylindrical body 22, and is a portion into which the insertion receptacle 46 of the second connecting member 40 is inserted. The inner diameter of the insertion receptacle 26 is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the first pipe connecting portion 28.

[0024] (First Pipe Connection Portion 28) As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and 6 , the first pipe connection portion 28 is provided at the other end of the first cylindrical body 22 and is a portion to which the first pipe P1 is connected. In this embodiment, the first pipe connection portion 28 is connected to the first pipe P1 by being press-fitted into the first pipe P1. If the first pipe P1 is a flexible hose, the portion where the first pipe P1 and the first pipe connection portion 28 overlap in the connected state may be tightened from the outside of the first pipe P1 with, for example, a band member. By tightening using a band member in this manner, the connection between the first pipe P1 and the first pipe connection portion 28 can be made stronger.

[0025] 2, 3, and 6, the first valve mechanism 30 is a mechanism that opens and closes the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22. The first valve mechanism 30 includes a first valve body 32 and an operating portion 36.

[0026] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first valve body 32 opens and closes the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22. The first valve body 32 has a communication hole 32A. When the axial direction of the communication hole 32A of the first valve body 32 (hereinafter referred to as the "axial direction CL1" as appropriate) of the first valve body 32 coincides with the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22 (see FIG. 2 ), the interior of the insertion receptacle 26 communicates with the interior of the first pipe connection portion 28 through the interior of the communication hole 32A. This allows fluid to flow through the first cylindrical body 22. In other words, when the axial direction of the communication hole 32A of the first valve body 32 coincides with the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22, the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22 is completely open. Note that, hereinafter, the state in which the axial direction of the communication hole 32A coincides with the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22 is referred to as the flow path open state of the first cylindrical body 22. Here, "coincidence" includes, for example, a case where the axial direction of the communication hole 32A and the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22 are completely aligned, as well as a case where they are inclined by about ±5 degrees.

[0027] Furthermore, in a state in which the axial direction CL1 of the communication hole 32A of the first valve body 32 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22 (see FIG. 3 ), the interior of the communication hole 32A does not communicate with the interior of the insertion receptacle 26 and the interior of the first piping connection portion 28. This stops the flow of fluid within the first cylindrical body 22. Note that, hereinafter, a state in which the axial direction of the communication hole 32A and the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22 are perpendicular to each other is referred to as a flow path closed state of the first cylindrical body 22. Here, "perpendicular" includes, for example, a state in which the axial direction of the communication hole 32A and the axial direction of the first cylindrical body 22 are completely perpendicular to each other, as well as a state in which they are inclined by approximately 90 degrees ±5 degrees.

[0028] Additionally, a fitting groove 32B extending in the same direction as the axial direction CL1 of the communicating hole 32A is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first valve body 32. A tip end 34A of a first valve stem 34 passing through the through-hole 22B is fitted into this fitting groove 32B. When a rotational force acts on the first valve stem 34, the rotational force is transmitted to the fitting groove 32B via the tip end 34A. When the rotational force is transmitted to the first valve body 32, the first valve body 32 rotates within the first accommodation portion 22A. Therefore, when the first cylindrical body 22 is in the flow path open state, the fitting groove 32B faces in the same direction as the axial direction X1 of the first cylindrical body 22, and when the first cylindrical body 22 is in the flow path closed state, the fitting groove 32B faces in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction X1 of the first cylindrical body 22.

[0029] The operating unit 36 ​​operates the opening and closing operation of the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22 by the first valve body 32. This operating unit 36 ​​is provided on the outer periphery of the first cylindrical body 22. Specifically, the operating unit 36 ​​is fixed to the other end of the first valve stem 34. Note that, in this embodiment, the operating unit 36 ​​is, for example, an operating handle. By gripping and turning this operating handle, the first valve body 32 rotates together with the first valve stem 34 within the first accommodation portion 22A.

[0030] In the present embodiment, when the first cylindrical body 22 is in the flow path closed state, if the convex portion 36A provided on the operating portion 36 is rotated in the forward direction (clockwise) around the first valve rod 34 as the central axis, the convex portion 36A comes into contact with a stopper 22E provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first cylindrical body 22 and is prevented from rotating at a position where the first cylindrical body 22 is in the flow path closed state. On the other hand, when the first cylindrical body 22 is in the flow path closed state, if the convex portion 36A provided on the operating portion 36 is rotated in the reverse direction (counterclockwise) around the axis where the first valve rod 34 is the central axis, the convex portion 36A comes into contact with a stopper 22F provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first cylindrical body 22 and is prevented from rotating at a position where the first cylindrical body 22 is in the flow path open state.

[0031] [Second connecting member 40] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the second connecting member 40 has a second cylindrical body 42, an insertion port portion 46, a second piping connection portion 48, a second valve mechanism 50, and a sealing member 60.

[0032] 2 and 3, the second cylindrical body 42 constitutes the main body of the second connecting member 40. An insertion opening 46 is provided at one axial end of the second cylindrical body 42. Furthermore, a second pipe connecting portion 48 to which the second pipe P2 is connected is provided at the other axial end of the second cylindrical body 42.

[0033] In the following description, the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42 is indicated by an arrow X2.

[0034] 2 and 3 , a second valve element 52 constituting a second valve mechanism 50 is disposed inside the second cylindrical body 42 (also referred to as an internal flow path). Specifically, a second housing portion 42A in which the second valve element 52 is housed is provided inside the second cylindrical body 42. The second valve element 52 is rotatably housed in this second housing portion 42A. A large diameter portion 47 is provided between the insertion opening portion 46 and the second pipe connection portion 48 in the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42, and the interior of this large diameter portion 47 constitutes the second housing portion 42A.

[0035] In addition, a through hole 42B is formed in the large diameter portion 47 of the second cylindrical body 42, through which a second valve rod 54 (details described later) passes to rotate the second valve body 52 and open and close the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body 42.

[0036] In the wall surface 42C constituting the second housing portion 42A, seal grooves 42D are formed on both sides of the through hole 42B in the axial direction X2 of the second cylindrical body 42. Each seal groove 42D is continuous in the circumferential direction of the second cylindrical body 42. An annular seal member 43 is housed in each seal groove 42D. These seal members 43 contact the surface of the second valve body 52. ​​In this embodiment, an O-ring having a circular cross-sectional shape is used as the seal member 43 as an example, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, a seal member having a polygonal cross-sectional shape may be used. An example of a seal member having a rectangular cross-sectional shape is a ball seat.

[0037] 2 and 3 , the second cylindrical body 42 of this embodiment is composed of a cylindrical member 57 on the insertion opening 46 side and a cylindrical member 58 on the second pipe connecting portion 48 side. The second cylindrical body 42 is formed by assembling the cylindrical member 58 to the cylindrical member 57. The cylindrical member 57 includes the insertion opening 46 and a portion of the large diameter portion 47. The cylindrical member 58 includes the second pipe connecting portion 48 and the remaining portion of the large diameter portion 47. Specifically, the cylindrical member 57 includes a peripheral wall of the large diameter portion 47 and a side wall portion 57A connecting the peripheral wall to the base end of the insertion opening 46. The cylindrical member 58 also includes a flange portion 58A extending from the base end of the second pipe connecting portion 48. The flange portion 58A is fitted into an opening of the large diameter portion 47 on the side opposite the insertion opening 46. A circumferentially continuous groove 58B is formed on the peripheral edge of the flange portion 58A. An O-ring 58C is placed in this groove 58B. The O-ring 58C is disposed between the bottom surface of the groove 58B in the flange portion 58A and the inner circumferential surface of the large diameter portion 47, and provides a seal between the flange portion 58A and the large diameter portion 47.

[0038] 2 and 3 , the insertion opening 46 is provided at one end of the second cylindrical body 42, and is the portion that is inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26. The inner diameter of this insertion opening 46 is set to be the same as the inner diameter of the second pipe connecting portion 48. Here, "the same" includes, for example, cases where the inner diameter of the insertion opening 46 and the inner diameter of the second pipe connecting portion 48 are exactly the same size, as well as cases where the inner diameter of the second pipe connecting portion 48 is within a range of ±5% of the inner diameter of the insertion opening 46.

[0039] An annular housing groove 46A is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening 46, and is continuous in the circumferential direction of the insertion opening 46. A seal member 60 is housed in this housing groove 46A.

[0040] 2 and 3 , the second pipe connection portion 48 is provided at the other end of the second cylindrical body 42 and is a portion to which the second pipe P2 is connected. The second pipe connection portion 48 in this embodiment is a flange portion connected to a flange portion attached to an end of the second pipe P2, and the second pipe P2 and the second pipe connection portion 48 are connected by fastening the flange portion of the second pipe P2 and the second pipe connection portion 48 with, for example, bolts or the like.

[0041] 2 and 3 , the second valve mechanism 50 is a mechanism that opens and closes the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body 42. The second valve mechanism 50 includes a second valve body 52 and an operating portion 56.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the second valve body 52 opens and closes the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body 42. The second valve body 52 has a communication hole 52A. When the axial direction of the communication hole 52A of the second valve body 52 (hereinafter referred to as the "axial direction CL2") coincides with the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42, the interior of the insertion opening 46 and the interior of the second pipe connection portion 48 communicate with each other through the communication hole 52A. This allows fluid to flow through the second cylindrical body 42. That is, when the axial direction of the communication hole 52A of the second valve body 52 coincides with the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42 (see FIG. 2), the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body 42 is completely open. Hereinafter, the state in which the axial direction of the communication hole 52A coincides with the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42 will be referred to as the flow path open state of the second cylindrical body 42. Here, "coincidence" includes, for example, a case where the axial direction of the communication hole 52A and the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42 are completely aligned, as well as a case where they are inclined by about ±5 degrees.

[0043] Furthermore, in a state in which the axial direction CL2 of the communication hole 52A of the second valve body 52 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42 (see FIG. 3 ), the interior of the communication hole 52A does not communicate with the interior of the insertion opening 46 and the interior of the second pipe connection portion 48. This stops the flow of fluid within the second cylindrical body 42. Note that, hereinafter, a state in which the axial direction of the communication hole 52A and the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42 are perpendicular to each other is referred to as a flow path closed state of the second cylindrical body 42. Here, "perpendicular" includes, for example, a state in which the axial direction of the communication hole 52A and the axial direction of the second cylindrical body 42 are completely perpendicular to each other, as well as a state in which they are inclined by approximately 90 degrees ±5 degrees.

[0044] The outer peripheral surface of the second valve body 52 is provided with a fitting groove 52B extending in the same direction as the axial direction CL2 of the communicating hole 52A. A tip end 54A of a second valve rod 54 passing through the through-hole 42B is fitted into this fitting groove 52B. When a rotational force acts on the second valve rod 54, the rotational force is transmitted to the fitting groove 52B via the tip end 54A. When the rotational force is transmitted to the second valve body 52, the second valve body 52 rotates within the second accommodation portion 42A. Therefore, when the second cylinder 42 is in the flow path open state, the fitting groove 52B faces in the same direction as the axial direction X2 of the second cylinder 42, and when the second cylinder 42 is in the flow path closed state, the fitting groove 52B faces in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction X2 of the second cylinder 42.

[0045] The operating unit 56 operates the opening and closing operation of the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body 42 by the second valve body 52. ​​This operating unit 56 is provided on the outer periphery of the second cylindrical body 42. Specifically, the operating unit 56 is fixed to the other end of the second valve stem 54. Note that, in this embodiment, the operating unit 56 is, for example, an operating handle. By gripping and turning this operating handle, the second valve body 52 rotates together with the second valve stem 54 within the second accommodation portion 42A.

[0046] In the present embodiment, when the convex portion 56A provided on the operating portion 56 is rotated in the reverse direction (counterclockwise) around the second valve rod 54 as the central axis in the flow path closed state of the second cylindrical body 42, the convex portion 56A comes into contact with a stopper 42E provided on the outer peripheral surface of the second cylindrical body 42 and is prevented from rotating at a position where the flow path of the second cylindrical body 42 is opened. On the other hand, when the convex portion 56A provided on the operating portion 56 is rotated in the forward direction (counterclockwise) around the axis where the second valve rod 54 is opened as the flow path of the second cylindrical body 42, the convex portion 56A comes into contact with a stopper 42F provided on the outer peripheral surface of the second cylindrical body 42 and is prevented from rotating at a position where the flow path of the second cylindrical body 42 is closed.

[0047] (Sealing Member 60) The sealing member 60 is disposed between the insertion opening 46 and the receiving opening 26 to provide a seal between the insertion opening 46 and the receiving opening 26. Specifically, the sealing member 60 is formed in an annular shape, and its inner periphery contacts the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46 and its outer periphery contacts the inner periphery of the receiving opening 26, thereby providing a seal between the insertion opening 46 and the receiving opening 26. As an example, the sealing member 60 in this embodiment is an O-ring with a circular cross section. The outer periphery of the insertion opening 46 also includes the bottom surface of the receiving groove 46A in which the sealing member 60 is accommodated.

[0048] In this embodiment, the seal member 60 is attached to the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46. In other words, the seal member 60 is housed in a housing groove 46A provided on the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46. By housing the seal member 60 in the housing groove 46A in this manner, movement of the seal member 60 in the axial direction X2 when the insertion opening 46 is inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26 can be limited.

[0049] Furthermore, since the first connecting member 20 has an insertion opening portion 26 and the second connecting member 40 has an insertion opening portion 46, the first connecting member 20 may be read as a female member and the second connecting member 40 may be read as a male member.

[0050] [Locking mechanism 80] The locking mechanism 80 is a mechanism that maintains the inserted state in which the insertion opening portion 46 is inserted into the insertion opening portion 26, and allows relative rotation of the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 around the axis.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 6, 8, 11 and 12, the locking mechanism 80 includes a hook portion 82, a pair of slits 84, and a locking member 86.

[0052] 6, the hook portion 82 is provided continuously in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening 46 of the second cylindrical body 42, closer to the second pipe connection portion 48 than the arrangement area of ​​the seal member 60. Here, the arrangement area of ​​the seal member 60 refers to the area on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening 46 where the seal member 60 is arranged, and in this embodiment, this corresponds to the area where the accommodation groove 46A is provided.

[0053] In the present embodiment, a circumferentially continuous annular locking groove 88 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening 46 closer to the second pipe connection portion 48 than the arrangement area of ​​the seal member 60. The hooking portion 82 is formed by a groove wall on the opposite side of this locking groove 88 from the second pipe connection portion 48. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the above configuration, and the hooking portion 82 may be formed by a convex portion on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening 46, and the convex wall of this convex portion on the second pipe connection portion 48 side.

[0054] 11 to 14, the pair of slits 84 are provided on the peripheral wall of the insertion receiving portion 26 closer to the first pipe connection portion 28 than the arrangement area of ​​the sealing member 60. The pair of slits 84 are provided opposite each other and extend in the circumferential direction.

[0055] 11, the locking member 86 is attached to the outer periphery of the insertion opening 26 so as to be movable between a first position and a second position radially inward from the first position. The first position of the locking member 86 is the position shown in FIGS. 11 and 13. The second position of the locking member 86 is the position shown in FIGS. 12 and 14.

[0056] The locking member 86 also has a pair of pin portions 86A that are inserted into the pair of slits 84, respectively, and a connecting portion 86B that connects one end of the pair of pin portions 86A together.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, in the locking member 86, the pair of pin portions 86A do not enter the locking grooves 88 and the pair of pin portions 86A do not get caught on the respective catch portions 82 when in the first position.

[0058] 12 and 14, in the locking member 86, the pair of pin portions 86A enter the locking grooves 88, so that the distance between the pair of pin portions 86A becomes narrower than in the first position, and the pair of pin portions 86A are each caught by the catch portions 82. This maintains the inserted state in which the insertion opening portion 46 is inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26.

[0059] 12, when the locking member 86 is in the second position, a gap G is formed between the connecting portion 86B and the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening portion 26. This gap G is preferably set to a size that allows a tool or an operator's finger to be inserted therein.

[0060] The pair of pin portions 86A have the other end portion positioned opposite to the connecting portion 86B bent.

[0061] The outer peripheral surface of the receptacle 26 is provided with recesses 85 midway through the pair of slits 84, into which the bent portions 86C of the pair of pins 86A are fitted when the locking member 86 is in the first position. Specifically, when the locking member 86 is in the first position, the bent portions 86C fit into the recesses 85, preventing the locking member 86 from falling off during transportation, etc. On the other hand, when the locking member 86 is pushed from the first position to the second position, the spacing between the pair of pins 86A widens, causing the bent portions 86C to climb over the recesses 85. Once the bent portions 86C climb over the recesses 85, the pair of pins 86A return to their original state, narrowing the spacing between the pair of pins 86A. The pair of pins 86A then enter the locking grooves 88, maintaining the insertion state in which the receptacle 46 is inserted into the receptacle 26. In other words, the locking mechanism 80 maintains the connection between the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40.

[0062] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the locking member 86 is located at the second position and the first valve body 32 opens the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22 by operation of the operating unit 36, a portion of the operating unit 36 ​​comes into contact with the locking member 86, thereby preventing the locking member 86 from moving to the first position, as shown in Figures 12 and 147. Specifically, when the locking member 86 is located at the second position and the first cylindrical body 22 is in the flow path open state, a portion of the operating unit 36 ​​protrudes above the connecting portion 86B of the locking member 86 as viewed in the axial direction of the first valve stem 34, thereby preventing the locking member 86 from moving unintentionally from the second position to the first position.

[0063] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described. In the connection structure S1 of this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 8 , the insertion opening 46 of the second connection member 40, having the second pipe P2 connected to the second pipe connection portion 48, is inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26 of the first connection member 20, having the first pipe P1 connected to the first pipe connection portion 28. Then, as shown in FIGS. 9 to 14 , the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40 are connected by operating the locking mechanism 80 in an inserted state with the insertion opening 46 inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26. Specifically, by moving the locking member 86 from the first position to the second position in an inserted state with the insertion opening 46 inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26, the pair of pin portions 86A of the locking member 86 enter the locking grooves 88, maintaining the inserted state. In other words, the connection state between the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40 is maintained.

[0064] 2 , when the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 are connected, the space between the insertion opening 46 and the insertion receiving opening 26 is sealed by the annular sealing member 60. Therefore, by operating the first valve mechanism 30 of the first connecting member 20 and the second valve mechanism 50 of the second connecting member 40, respectively, and opening the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22 and the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body 42, respectively, the interior of the first pipe P1 and the interior of the second pipe P2 are communicated with each other via the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22 and the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body 42.

[0065] Here, in the connection structure S1, the locking mechanism 80 maintains the inserted state in which the insertion opening portion 46 is inserted into the insertion opening portion 26, and also allows relative rotation about the axis between the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40. Therefore, even if excessive force in the torsional direction acts on at least one of the first piping P1 connected to the first connection member 20 and the second piping P2 connected to the second connection member 40, the excessive force in the torsional direction acting on at least one of the first piping P1 and the second piping P2 can be alleviated by rotating the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40 in the connected state relative to each other about the axis.

[0066] Furthermore, in the connection structure S1, the inner peripheral portion of the annular sealing member 60 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion 46, and the outer peripheral portion of the sealing member 60 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion 26, thereby sealing the space between the insertion opening portion 46 and the insertion opening portion 26.Therefore, even if the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 in the connected state are rotated relative to each other around the axis, the sealing effect of the sealing member 60 can be maintained.

[0067] In this way, in the above-mentioned connection structure S1, by rotating the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40 in a connected state relative to each other around the axis, it is possible to alleviate excessive torsional force acting on at least one of the first pipe P1 and the second pipe P2, and the sealing effect of the sealing member 60 can be maintained even when the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40 are rotated relative to each other around the axis.Therefore, the structure of the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40 can be simplified compared to, for example, a configuration in which a mechanism that allows relative rotation is incorporated into each connection member.

[0068] Furthermore, the connection structure S1 uses a structure (axial seal structure) in which the inner periphery of the annular seal member 60 contacts the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46, and the outer periphery of the seal member 60 contacts the inner periphery of the insertion receiving opening 26. By using this structure, the connection structure S1 makes the contact pressure between the seal member 60 and the insertion receiving opening 26 nearly uniform in the circumferential direction of the seal member 60, and makes the contact pressure between the seal member 60 and the insertion opening 46 nearly uniform in the circumferential direction of the seal member. As a result, the connection structure S1 has improved sealing performance compared to, for example, a structure (face seal structure) in which the seal surfaces of the connection members are pressed against each other.

[0069] As such, according to the connection structure S1 of this embodiment, the sealing performance between the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40 can be improved while simplifying the structure of the first connection member 20 and the second connection member 40.

[0070] Furthermore, in the connection structure S1 of this embodiment, since the sealing member 60 is attached to the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46 of the second cylindrical body 42, the sealing member 60 can be attached to the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46 by the simple task of passing the insertion opening 46 inside the annular sealing member 60.

[0071] Furthermore, in the connection structure S1 of this embodiment, a circumferentially continuous annular housing groove 46A is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening 46, and the seal member 60 is housed in this housing groove 46A. Therefore, in the connection structure S1, the insertion opening 46 is passed inside the annular seal member 60 and the seal member 60 is housed in the housing groove 46A, making it easy to position the seal member 60 relative to the insertion opening 46.

[0072] Furthermore, in the connection structure S1 of this embodiment, when the locking member 86 is moved from the first position to the second position, the pair of pin portions 86A are each caught by the hooking portions 82, maintaining the inserted state in which the insertion opening portion 46 is inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26. That is, the connection state between the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 is maintained. Furthermore, when the locking member 86 is moved from the second position to the first position, the pair of pin portions 86A are no longer caught by the hooking portions 82, making it possible to pull the insertion opening portion 46 out of the insertion receiving portion 26. That is, it is possible to release the connection state between the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40. In this way, in the connection structure S1, the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 can be connected or released by the simple operation of moving the locking member 86 between the first position and the second position.

[0073] Furthermore, in the connection structure S1 of this embodiment, when the locking member 86 is in the second position, the pair of pin portions 86A each enter the locking groove 88, thereby maintaining the inserted state in which the insertion opening portion 46 is inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26. Here, the pair of pin portions 86A that enter the locking groove 88 move along the locking groove 88 while being guided by both groove walls of the locking groove 88 when the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 rotate relatively about the axis. Therefore, rattle that occurs when the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 rotate relatively about the axis can be suppressed.

[0074] Furthermore, in connection structure S1 of this embodiment, when locking member 86 is in the second position, a gap is formed between connecting portion 86B and the outer peripheral surface of insertion receptacle 26. Here, by inserting a finger or a tool into gap G between connecting portion 86B and the outer peripheral surface of insertion receptacle 26 and lifting connecting portion 86B relative to the outer peripheral surface of insertion receptacle 26, locking member 86 can be easily moved from the second position to the first position.

[0075] Furthermore, in the connection structure S1 of this embodiment, when the locking member 86 is in the first position, the bent portions 86C of the pair of pin portions 86A are respectively fitted into the recesses 85 of the insertion opening portion 26, making it easy to know that the locking member 86 is in the first position. Also, it is possible to prevent the locking member 86 from being moved from the first position to the second position due to an erroneous operation.

[0076] Furthermore, in the connection structure S1 of this embodiment, in an inserted state in which the insertion opening 46 is inserted into the insertion receiving portion 26, the locking member 86 is positioned at the second position, and the first valve body 32 opens the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body 22 by operation of the operating portion 36 (flow path open state), a portion of the operating portion 36 abuts against the locking member 86, thereby preventing the locking member 86 from moving from the second position to the first position. In this way, in the connection structure S1, because the locking member 86 cannot be moved from the second position to the first position when the flow path of the first cylindrical body 22 is open, it is possible to prevent the insertion opening 46 from being pulled out of the insertion receiving portion 26 when the first cylindrical body 22 is in the flow path open state. This makes it possible to prevent the first connecting member 20 and the second connecting member 40 from being disconnected due to an erroneous operation of the locking member 86.

[0077] In the above-described embodiment, the operating portion 36 of the first connecting member 20 is an operating handle having a protrusion 36A. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, the operating portion 136 shown in FIGS. 16 to 18 may be used. This operating portion 136 is a hexagonal portion formed on the upper portion of the first valve stem 34. Because of its hexagonal shape, this operating portion 136 can be rotated using a tool. Note that the operating portion 136 is not limited to a hexagonal shape, as long as the width (spacing) between the two opposing faces is the same. That is, the shape of the operating portion 136 may be rectangular or octagonal. Furthermore, a plate 137 is attached to the operating portion 136 using a screw member 138 to prevent the locking member 86 from coming loose when in the second position. Furthermore, a plate 139 having a protrusion 36A is attached to the lower portion of the operating portion 136 to prevent rotation of the operating portion 136. Note that a similar operating portion 156 may also be used for the operating portion 56 of the second connecting member 40. The operating unit 156 is a hexagonal portion formed on the upper portion of the first valve stem 34. Because of its hexagonal shape, the operating unit 156 can be rotated using a tool. The operating unit 156 is not limited to a hexagonal shape, as long as the width (spacing) between the two opposing faces is the same. That is, the shape of the operating unit 156 may be rectangular or octagonal. A plate 157 is attached to the operating unit 156 using a screw member 158. The plate 157 may be omitted. Furthermore, a plate 159 having a protrusion 56A is attached to the lower portion of the operating unit 156 to prevent the operating unit 156 from rotating. As described above, when the operating unit 136 and the operating unit 156 are used, there is no need to provide an operating handle that is easy for the operator to grip, thereby reducing costs.

[0078] In the above-described embodiment, the locking member 86 is attached to the first connecting member 20, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, a locking member may also be attached to the second connecting member. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 19 to 22, the locking member 86 may be attached to the first connecting member 220, and the locking member 286 may be attached to the second connecting member 240. As shown in FIG. 22, a circumferentially continuous locking groove 288 is provided on the distal end side of the slit 84 in the insertion receptacle 26 of the first connecting member 220. Furthermore, a concentric annular rib is provided radially outward of the insertion receptacle 46 of the second connecting member 240, so that the distal end of the insertion receptacle 26 is inserted between the insertion receptacle 46 and the annular rib. A pair of slits 284 is then formed in the annular rib. A pair of pin portions 286A of the locking member 286 are inserted into the pair of slits 284. The locking member 286 has a connecting portion 286B connecting one end of a pair of pin portions 286A and a bent portion 286C formed by bending the other end. The outer periphery of each annular rib is provided with a recess 285 into which the bent portion 286C fits. The operation of this locking member 286 is similar to that of the locking member 86. The plate 237 of the first connecting member 220 has a plate shape that prevents the locking member 86 from being operated until the first valve body 32 completely closes the flow path. Similarly, the plate 257 of the second connecting member 240 has a plate shape that prevents the locking member 286 from being operated until the second valve body 52 completely closes the flow path. This configuration prevents the insertion opening 46 from being pulled out of the insertion receptacle 26 when at least one of the first valve body 32 and the second valve body 52 is in an open state, thereby suppressing water leakage when the insertion opening 46 is pulled out of the insertion receptacle 26.

[0079] In the above-described embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 19 to 22 , the locking member 86 is attached to the first connecting member 220, and the locking member 286 is attached to the second connecting member 240. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, a locking member 290 shown in FIG. 23 may be used to connect the first connecting member 220 and the second connecting member 240. As shown in FIG. 23 , the locking member 290 has a structure (integrated structure) in which the locking member 86 and the locking member 286 are combined. Specifically, the locking member 290 is configured by connecting the connecting portion 86B of the locking member 86 and the connecting portion 286B of the locking member 286 with a pair of connecting portions 292. By using this locking member 290 to connect the first connecting member 220 and the second connecting member 240 as shown in FIG. 24 , it is possible to prevent the insertion opening portion 46 from being pulled out of the insertion opening portion 26 when at least one of the first valve body 32 and the second valve body 52 is in an open state, as in the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, with the locking member 290, the first connecting member 220 and the second connecting member 240 can be connected and disconnected with a single operation, compared to when the locking member 86 and the locking member 286 are separate, making the connection and disconnection operations simpler.

[0080] In the above-described embodiment, the first pipe P1 is connected to the first pipe connection portion 28, and the second pipe P2 is connected to the second pipe connection portion 48, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the structures of the first pipe connection portion 28 and the second pipe connection portion 48 may be interchanged, so that the second pipe P2 is connected to the first pipe connection portion 28, and the first pipe P1 is connected to the second pipe connection portion 48. Furthermore, the structure of the first pipe connection portion 28 may be any structure as long as it can be connected to the target pipe. Like the first pipe connection portion 28, the second pipe connection portion 48 may also be any structure as long as it can be connected to the target pipe.

[0081] In the above-described embodiment, a single seal member 60 is attached to the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, multiple seal members 60 may be attached to the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46. In this case, multiple storage grooves 46A may be provided on the outer periphery of the insertion opening 46, and the seal members 60 may be respectively stored in the multiple storage grooves 46A.

[0082] In the above-described embodiment, a ball valve mechanism is used as the first valve mechanism 30, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, a needle valve mechanism or a butterfly valve mechanism may be used as the first valve mechanism 30. Furthermore, similar to the first valve mechanism 30, the second valve mechanism 50 may also be a needle valve mechanism or a butterfly valve mechanism instead of a ball valve mechanism.

[0083] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, these embodiments are merely examples and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. It goes without saying that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments.

[0084] The following additional notes are provided regarding the above-described embodiments.

[0085] (Supplementary Note 1) A piping connection structure comprising: a first connecting member having a first cylindrical body, an insertion receiving portion provided at one end of the first cylindrical body, a first piping connection portion provided at the other end of the first cylindrical body and to which a first piping is connected, and a first valve mechanism capable of opening and closing an internal flow path of the first cylindrical body; a second connecting member having a second cylindrical body, an insertion port provided at one end of the second cylindrical body and inserted into the insertion receiving portion, a second piping connection portion provided at the other end of the second cylindrical body and to which a second piping is connected, and a second valve mechanism capable of opening and closing an internal flow path of the second cylindrical body; an annular sealing member disposed between the insertion port portion and the insertion receiving portion, the annular sealing member having an inner circumferential portion in contact with an outer circumferential surface of the insertion port portion and an outer circumferential portion in contact with an inner circumferential surface of the insertion receiving portion, thereby sealing between the insertion port portion and the insertion receiving portion; and a locking mechanism that maintains an inserted state in which the insertion port portion is inserted into the insertion receiving portion, and allows relative rotation around the axis of the first connecting member and the second connecting member.

[0086] In the pipe connection structure of Supplementary Note 1, the insertion opening of a second connection member, which has a second pipe connected to a second pipe connection portion, is inserted into the insertion receiving opening of a first connection member, which has a first pipe connected to a first pipe connection portion, and the locking mechanism is activated in this inserted state, thereby connecting the first connection member and the second connection member. When the first connection member and the second connection member are connected, the annular seal member seals the insertion opening and the insertion receiving opening. Therefore, by operating the first valve mechanism of the first connection member and the second valve mechanism of the second connection member, respectively, to open the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body and the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body, respectively, the interior of the first pipe and the interior of the second pipe are communicated via the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body and the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body.

[0087] In the above-described pipe connection structure, the locking mechanism maintains the insertion opening portion inserted into the insertion receiving opening portion while allowing relative rotation about the axis between the first connecting member and the second connecting member. Therefore, even if excessive torsional force acts on at least one of the first pipe connected to the first connecting member and the second pipe connected to the second connecting member, the excessive torsional force acting on at least one of the first pipe and the second pipe can be alleviated by rotating the connected first connecting member and the second connecting member relative to each other about the axis. Furthermore, in the above-described pipe connection structure, the inner peripheral portion of the annular seal member contacts the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion, and the outer peripheral portion of the seal member contacts the inner peripheral surface of the insertion receiving portion, thereby sealing between the insertion opening portion and the insertion receiving portion. Therefore, even when the connected first connecting member and the second connecting member are rotated relative to each other about the axis, the sealing effect of the seal member can be maintained. In this way, in the above-mentioned piping connection structure, by rotating the first connecting member and the second connecting member in a connected state relative to each other around the axis, it is possible to alleviate excessive torsional force acting on at least one of the first and second piping, and the sealing effect of the sealing member can be maintained even when the first connecting member and the second connecting member are rotated relative to each other around the axis, so the structure of the first connecting member and the second connecting member can be simplified compared to, for example, a configuration in which a mechanism that allows relative rotation is incorporated into each connecting member.

[0088] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned pipe connection structure, the inner peripheral portion of the annular seal member contacts the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening, and the outer peripheral portion of the seal member contacts the inner peripheral surface of the receiving opening (axial seal structure), so the contact pressure between the seal member and the receiving opening becomes nearly uniform in the circumferential direction of the seal member, and the contact pressure between the seal member and the insertion opening becomes nearly uniform in the circumferential direction of the seal member. Therefore, the above-mentioned pipe connection structure has improved sealing performance compared to a structure in which the seal surfaces of the connection members are pressed against each other (face seal structure).

[0089] Thus, according to the piping connection structure of Appendix 1, it is possible to improve the sealing performance between the first connecting member and the second connecting member while simplifying the structure of the first connecting member and the second connecting member.

[0090] (Supplementary Note 2) The pipe connection structure according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the sealing member is attached to an outer periphery of the insertion opening portion.

[0091] In the pipe connection structure of Supplementary Note 2, the seal member can be attached to the outer periphery of the insertion opening by the simple operation of passing the insertion opening through the inside of the annular seal member.

[0092] (Supplementary Note 3) The pipe connection structure according to Supplementary Note 2, wherein an annular accommodating groove that is continuous in a circumferential direction is provided on an outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion, and the sealing member is accommodated in the accommodating groove.

[0093] In the pipe connection structure of Supplementary Note 3, the insertion opening is passed through the inside of the annular seal member, and the seal member is accommodated in the accommodation groove, so that the seal member can be easily positioned relative to the insertion opening.

[0094] (Supplementary Note 4) The piping connection structure described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein the locking mechanism comprises: hook portions provided circumferentially continuously on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion on the second pipe connection portion side of the arrangement area of ​​the seal member; a pair of circumferentially extending slits provided on the outer peripheral wall of the insertion receiving opening portion facing the first pipe connection portion side of the arrangement area of ​​the seal member; and a locking member having a pair of pin portions to be inserted into the pair of slits, the locking member being attached to the outer periphery of the insertion receiving opening portion so as to be movable between a first position and a second position radially inward from the first position, wherein the pair of pin portions do not hook on the hook portions at the first position, and wherein the spacing between the pair of pin portions is narrower than at the first position at the second position so that the pair of pin portions hook on the hook portions, maintaining the inserted state.

[0095] In the pipe connection structure of Supplementary Note 4, when the locking member is moved from the first position to the second position, the pair of pin portions each engage with the catch portion, maintaining the inserted state in which the insertion opening portion is inserted into the insertion opening portion. That is, the connected state between the first connecting member and the second connecting member is maintained. Furthermore, when the locking member is moved from the second position to the first position, the pair of pin portions do not engage with the catch portion, making it possible to pull the insertion opening portion out of the insertion opening portion. That is, it is possible to release the connected state between the first connecting member and the second connecting member. In this way, with the above pipe connection structure, the first connecting member and the second connecting member can be connected or released by the simple operation of moving the locking member between the first position and the second position.

[0096] (Appendix 5) A piping connection structure according to Appendix 4, wherein an annular locking groove is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion, the locking groove being continuous in the circumferential direction on the second pipe connection portion side of the arrangement area of ​​the sealing member, the hooking portion is formed by a groove wall on the opposite side of the locking groove from the second pipe connection portion side, and when the locking member is positioned at the second position, the pair of pin portions each enter into the locking groove.

[0097] In the pipe connection structure of Supplementary Note 5, when the locking member is in the second position, the pair of pins each enter the locking groove, maintaining an inserted state in which the insertion opening portion is inserted into the insertion receiving opening portion. Here, the pair of pins entering the locking groove move along the locking groove while being guided by both groove walls of the locking groove when the first connecting member and the second connecting member rotate relative to each other about the axis. This makes it possible to suppress rattling when the first connecting member and the second connecting member rotate relative to each other about the axis.

[0098] (Appendix 6) The piping connection structure described in Appendix 5, wherein the locking member has a connecting portion that connects one end of the pair of pin portions, and when positioned in the second position, a gap is formed between the connecting portion and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion.

[0099] In the pipe connection structure of Supplementary Note 6, when the locking member is in the second position, a gap is formed between the connecting portion and the outer peripheral surface of the receiving portion. Here, the locking member can be easily moved from the second position to the first position by inserting a finger or a tool into the gap between the connecting portion and the outer peripheral surface of the receiving portion and lifting the connecting portion relative to the outer peripheral surface of the receiving portion.

[0100] (Appendix 7) A piping connection structure as described in Appendix 6, wherein the other ends of the pair of pin portions are each bent, and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion is provided with recesses in the middle of the pair of slits, into which the bent portions of the pair of pin portions are accommodated at the first position.

[0101] In the pipe connection structure of Supplementary Note 7, when the locking member is in the first position, the bent portions of the pair of pins are fitted into the recesses of the insertion opening, making it easy to know that the locking member is in the first position. Also, it is possible to prevent the locking member from being moved from the first position to the second position by mistake.

[0102] (Appendix 8) The piping connection structure described in any one of Appendices 4 to 7, wherein the first valve mechanism includes a valve body that opens and closes the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body, and an operating part that is provided on the outer periphery of the first cylindrical body and operates the opening and closing operation of the valve body, and when the locking member is located at the second position and the valve body opens the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body by operating the operating part, a part of the operating part abuts against the locking member, thereby preventing the locking member from moving to the first position.

[0103] In the pipe connection structure of Supplementary Note 8, when the insertion opening is inserted into the receiving opening, the locking member is in the second position, and the valve body opens the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body by operating the operating member, a portion of the operating member abuts against the locking member, preventing the locking member from moving from the second position to the first position. In this way, with the pipe connection structure, the locking member cannot be moved from the second position to the first position while the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body is open, so it is possible to prevent the insertion opening from being pulled out of the receiving opening while the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body is open. This prevents the first connecting member and the second connecting member from being disconnected due to incorrect operation of the locking member.

[0104] (Appendix 9) A piping connection structure described in any one of Appendices 1 to 7, wherein the first valve mechanism includes a first valve body that opens and closes the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body, and a first operating unit that is provided on the outer periphery of the first cylindrical body and operates the opening and closing operation of the first valve body; the second valve mechanism includes a second valve body that opens and closes the internal flow path of the second cylindrical body, and a second operating unit that is provided on the outer periphery of the second cylindrical body and operates the opening and closing operation of the second valve body; and the locking mechanism prevents the insertion port portion from being pulled out of the insertion port portion when at least one of the first valve body and the second valve body is in an open state in the inserted state.

[0105] In the piping connection structure of Appendix 9, the locking mechanism prevents the insertion port portion from being pulled out from the insertion port portion when at least one of the first valve body and the second valve body is in the open state, thereby suppressing water leakage when the insertion port portion is pulled out from the insertion port portion.

[0106] (Appendix 10) A connection member comprising: a cylindrical body; an insertion port provided at one end of the cylindrical body and inserted into an insertion receiving port provided on a connection target; an annular sealing member attached to the outer periphery of the insertion port, and having an inner circumferential portion contacting the outer circumferential surface of the insertion port and an outer circumferential portion contacting the inner circumferential surface of the insertion receiving port when the insertion port is inserted into the insertion receiving port, thereby sealing between the insertion port and the insertion receiving port; a piping connection provided at the other end of the cylindrical body and to which a piping is connected; and a valve mechanism capable of opening and closing an internal flow path of the cylindrical body.

[0107] In the connection member of Supplementary Note 10, the connection object and the connection member are connected by inserting the insertion port of the connection member, with the pipe connected to the pipe connection port, into the insertion port of the connection object. When the connection object and the connection member are connected, the gap between the insertion port and the insertion port is sealed by an annular seal member. Therefore, by operating the valve mechanism of the connection member to connect the internal flow path of the connection object to the internal flow path of the cylindrical body, the inside of the pipe connected to the connection object and the inside of the pipe connected to the connection member are connected via the internal flow path of the connection object and the internal flow path of the cylindrical body.

[0108] Here, in the connection member, the inner peripheral portion of the annular seal member contacts the outer peripheral surface of the insertion port portion, and the outer peripheral portion of the seal member contacts the inner peripheral surface of the insertion receiving port portion of the connection object, thereby sealing between the insertion port portion and the insertion receiving port portion, so that the sealing effect of the seal member can be maintained even when the connection object and the connection member in the connected state are rotated relative to each other about the axis. In this way, in the connection member, by rotating the connection object and the connection member in the connected state relative to each other about the axis, excessive torsional force acting on at least one of the pipes can be alleviated, and the sealing effect of the seal member can be maintained even when the connection object and the connection member are rotated relative to each other about the axis, so the structure of the connection member can be simplified compared to, for example, a configuration in which a relative rotation mechanism is incorporated into the connection member.

[0109] Furthermore, the connecting member uses a structure (axial seal structure) in which the inner periphery of the annular seal member contacts the outer periphery of the insertion opening and the outer periphery of the seal member contacts the inner periphery of the receiving opening, so the contact pressure between the seal member and the receiving opening becomes nearly uniform around the periphery of the seal member, and the contact pressure between the seal member and the insertion opening becomes nearly uniform around the periphery of the seal member. Therefore, the connecting member has improved sealing performance compared to a structure (face seal structure) in which the seal surfaces of the connecting members are pressed against each other.

[0110] In this way, according to the connection member of Supplementary Note 10, the structure of the connection member can be simplified while improving the sealing performance between the connection object and the connection member.

[0111] The disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-195977, filed on November 17, 2023, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0112] All publications, patent applications, and technical standards mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent application, or technical standard was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

Claims

a first connecting member having a first cylindrical body, an insertion port provided at one end of the first cylindrical body, a first piping connection provided at the other end of the first cylindrical body and to which a first piping is connected, and a first valve mechanism capable of opening and closing an internal flow path of the first cylindrical body; a second connecting member having a second cylindrical body, an insertion port provided at one end of the second cylindrical body and inserted into the insertion port, a second piping connection provided at the other end of the second cylindrical body and to which a second piping is connected, and a second valve mechanism capable of opening and closing an internal flow path of the second cylindrical body; an annular seal member disposed between the insertion port and the insertion receiving port, the inner periphery of which contacts an outer periphery of the insertion port and the outer periphery of which contacts an inner periphery of the insertion receiving port, thereby sealing between the insertion port and the insertion receiving port; and a locking mechanism which maintains an insertion state in which the insertion port is inserted into the insertion receiving port and allows relative rotation about an axis between the first connecting member and the second connecting member.

2. A pipe connection structure as set forth in claim 1, wherein the sealing member is attached to the outer periphery of the insertion opening portion.

3. A piping connection structure as set forth in claim 2, wherein a circumferentially continuous annular accommodation groove is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion, and the seal member is accommodated in the accommodation groove.

4. A piping connection structure as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the locking mechanism comprises: hook portions provided circumferentially continuously on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion port portion on the second pipe connection portion side of the arrangement area of ​​the seal member; a pair of circumferentially extending slits provided in the peripheral wall of the insertion receiving portion facing the first pipe connection portion side of the arrangement area of ​​the seal member; and a locking member having a pair of pin portions to be inserted into the pair of slits respectively, the locking member being mounted on the outer periphery of the insertion receiving portion so as to be movable between a first position and a second position radially inward from the first position, the pair of pin portions not getting caught by the hook portions at the first position, and the interval between the pair of pin portions being narrower at the second position than at the first position so that the pair of pin portions get caught by the hook portions respectively, maintaining the inserted state.

5. A piping connection structure as described in claim 4, wherein an annular locking groove is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion, the locking groove being circumferentially continuous on the second piping connection portion side of the area where the sealing member is arranged, the hook portion is formed by a groove wall on the opposite side of the locking groove to the second piping connection portion side, and when the locking member is located in the second position, the pair of pin portions each enter into the locking groove.

6. A piping connection structure as described in claim 5, wherein the locking member has a connecting portion that connects one ends of a pair of the pin portions together, and when positioned in the second position, a gap is formed between the connecting portion and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion receiving portion.

7. A piping connection structure as described in claim 6, wherein the other ends of the pair of pin portions are each bent, and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion opening portion is provided with recesses midway between the pair of slits, into which the bent portions of the pair of pin portions are accommodated at the first position.

8. A piping connection structure as described in any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the first valve mechanism has a valve body that opens and closes the internal flow path of the first cylindrical body, and an operating part that is provided on the outer periphery of the first cylindrical body and operates the opening and closing operation of the valve body, and when the locking member is located in the second position and the valve body is opened by operation of the operating part, a part of the operating part abuts against the locking member to prevent the locking member from moving to the first position.

9. A piping connection structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first valve mechanism has a first valve body that opens and closes an internal flow path of the first cylindrical body, and a first operating unit that is provided on the outer periphery of the first cylindrical body and operates the opening and closing operation of the first valve body; the second valve mechanism has a second valve body that opens and closes an internal flow path of the second cylindrical body, and a second operating unit that is provided on the outer periphery of the second cylindrical body and operates the opening and closing operation of the second valve body; and the locking mechanism prevents the insertion opening portion from being pulled out of the insertion opening portion when at least one of the first valve body and the second valve body is in an open state in the inserted state.

10. A connection member having: a cylindrical body; an insertion port provided at one end of the cylindrical body and inserted into an insertion port provided on a connection target; a ring-shaped sealing member attached to the outer periphery of the insertion port and having an inner periphery contacting the outer periphery of the insertion port and an inner periphery contacting the inner surface of the insertion port when the insertion port is inserted into the insertion port, thereby sealing between the insertion port and the insertion port; a piping connection provided at the other end of the cylindrical body and to which a piping is connected; and a valve mechanism capable of opening and closing an internal flow path of the cylindrical body.

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