Cover member

Abstract

This cover member includes: a cover member body that covers the surface of a liquid inside a tank; and a deformation section that is provided to the cover member body and enables deformation of the cover member body so as to pass through an opening of the tank, spread out inside the tank, and cover said liquid surface.

Description

Covering member

[0001] This disclosure relates to a covering member.

[0002] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024 - 513156 discloses a fuel evaporation prevention device system including a storage tank and a variable - volume tank that can be accommodated within the storage tank. In this technology, the variable - volume tank is configured to receive liquid fuel.

[0003] In a tank in which a liquid is stored, if the liquid surface is exposed, for example, the liquid may evaporate or oxidize upon contact with air.

[0004] For example, if another tank is added inside the tank and the capacity of this additional tank is configured to be variable, members and controls for making the capacity of the added tank variable are required, and the configuration becomes complex.

[0005] An object of this disclosure is to suppress the exposure of the liquid surface without complicating the configuration of the tank.

[0006] The technology of this disclosure includes a covering - member main body that covers the liquid surface in the tank, and a deformation part provided on the covering - member main body that allows the covering - member main body to pass through the opening of the tank and be deformable to unfold within the tank and cover the liquid surface. Thereby, the covering member is inserted into the tank from the opening of the tank in a state smaller or narrower than the opening of the tank and unfolds within the tank to cover the liquid surface. Preferably, the deformation part is a bending - structure part that allows the covering - member main body to be bent. The bending - structure part includes those that bend the covering - member main body and those that gently bend without creases.

[0007] With the technology of this disclosure, the exposure of the liquid surface can be suppressed without complicating the configuration of the tank.

[0008] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the cover member of the first embodiment together with the tank. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the cover member of the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the cover member of the first embodiment together with the tank with liquid inside the tank. Figure 4A is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the first embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 4B is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the first embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 4C is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the first embodiment has been placed inside the tank. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the cover member of the second embodiment together with the tank. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the cover member of the second embodiment. Figure 7A is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 7B is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 7C is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 7D is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 7E is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 7F is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 7G is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 7H is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 7I is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the second embodiment has been placed inside the tank. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the cover member of the third embodiment. Figure 9A is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the cover member of the third embodiment together with the tank and with liquid inside the tank. Figure 9B is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the cover member of the third embodiment together with the tank and with liquid inside the tank. Figure 9C is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the cover member of the third embodiment together with the tank and with liquid inside the tank. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the cover member of the fourth embodiment together with the tank. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the cover member of the fourth embodiment. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of Figure 11 showing the cover member of the fourth embodiment. Figure 13 is a plan view showing the cover member of the fourth embodiment. Figure 14A is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the fourth embodiment is being placed inside the tank. Figure 14B is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the cover member of the fourth embodiment is being placed inside the tank.Figure 14C is an explanatory diagram showing the cover member of the fourth embodiment placed inside the tank. Figure 15A is a perspective view showing the cover member of the fifth embodiment. Figure 15B is an explanatory diagram showing the cover member of the fifth embodiment in the process of being placed inside the tank. Figure 15C is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the cover member of the fifth embodiment together with the tank and liquid inside the tank. Figure 16 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing a modified cover member and tank with liquid inside the tank.

[0009] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the technology of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Components and processes that perform the same operation, action, or function are given the same reference numerals throughout the drawings, and redundant explanations may be omitted as appropriate. Each drawing is only a schematic representation to the extent that the technology of this disclosure can be fully understood. Therefore, the technology of this disclosure is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in this embodiment, explanations of configurations not directly related to this disclosure or well-known configurations may be omitted.

[0010] Figure 1 shows a tank 12 to which the cover member 102 of the first embodiment is applied, along with the cover member 102. Figure 2 also shows the cover member 102. The tank 12 is used to hold a predetermined liquid inside and to agitate this liquid.

[0011] The tank 12 has tank side plates 14, a tank bottom plate 16, and a tank top plate 18. The tank side plates 14 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The tank bottom plate 16 forms the bottom surface of the tank side plates 14, and the tank top plate 18 forms the top surface of the tank side plates 14.

[0012] The tank bottom plate 16 is provided with a discharge member (not shown). By connecting, for example, a discharge pipe to the discharge member, it is possible to discharge the liquid from the tank 12 and fill it into a predetermined pack (dispensing operation). The tank 12 is used, for example, on the floor, placed on a stand 22.

[0013] An inlet hole 20 is formed in the tank top plate 18. In this embodiment, the inlet hole 20 is a circular hole having an inner diameter N2. The inlet hole 20 is an example of an opening according to the disclosed technology. The inner diameter N2 of the inlet hole 20 is smaller than the inner diameter N1 of the tank 12, and in the illustrated example it is less than half.

[0014] A lid 24 corresponding to the input hole 20 is attached to the top plate 18 of the tank. By closing the input hole 20 with the lid 24, the fluid does not move between the inside and outside of the tank 12. For example, when storing, stirring, and discharging (dispensing) the liquid LQ in the tank 12, the input hole 20 is closed by the lid 24. By removing the lid 24 and opening the input hole 20, a hose (not shown) can be inserted. Liquid is then introduced into the tank 12 through this hose. Alternatively, the liquid may be introduced into the tank 12 by directly passing it through the input hole 20 without using a hose.

[0015] The tank 12 is equipped with an agitation member 26. The agitation member 26 has a rotating shaft 28 and a screw 30. The rotating shaft 28 penetrates the tank top plate 18. The lower end of the rotating shaft 28 reaches near the tank bottom plate 16. The screw 30 is attached to the lower end of the rotating shaft 28. A drive mechanism (not shown) is provided on the rotating shaft 28 above the tank top plate 18. By rotating the rotating shaft 28 with the drive mechanism, the screw 30 can be rotated inside the tank 12, making it possible to agitate the liquid. The specific configuration of the screw 30 is not limited, but for example, a configuration in which one or more rotating blades rotate to agitate the liquid LQ can be given. The rotating blades may have a structure in which the diameter is constant when rotating, or they may have a structure in which they spread radially outward (i.e., the diameter becomes larger).

[0016] The cover member 102 has a film-like or plate-like cover member body 104. The cover member body 104 is formed in a disc shape. The outer diameter G1 of the cover member body 104 is smaller than the inner diameter N1 of the tank 12 and larger than the inner diameter N2 of the input hole 20. The cover member 102 is made of a material that does not undergo chemical changes or deterioration with respect to the liquid LQ in the tank 12 and is resistant to it. As an example, low-density polyethylene can be used as the material for the cover member 102, but it is not limited to this.

[0017] The overall specific gravity of the cover member 102 is made smaller than the specific gravity of the liquid LQ in the tank 12. For example, the specific gravity of the material constituting the cover member 102 may be smaller than the specific gravity of the liquid LQ. Alternatively, even if the specific gravity of the material constituting the cover member 102 is greater than the specific gravity of the liquid LQ, it is sufficient if the overall specific gravity of the cover member 102 is smaller than the specific gravity of the liquid LQ, for example, by forming a hollow portion in the cover member 102.

[0018] The cover member body 104 is elastic and can be bent elastically throughout. When no external force is applied, the cover member body 104 is flat and does not bend. In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the entire cover member body 104 can be rolled into a cylindrical shape that passes through the inlet hole 20 of the tank 12. That is, this is an example in which the bending structure of the cover member 102 is configured to make the cover member body 104 elastically bendable. Since the cover member body 104 is elastic, when the rolling force is removed, it returns to a flat shape that does not bend. In the first embodiment, the entire cover member body 104 is also an example of a deformable part.

[0019] The cover member body 104 has a relief hole 106 formed therein. The inner diameter N3 of the relief hole 106 is larger than the outer diameter G2 of the screw 30. The position of the relief hole 106 corresponds to the position of the screw 30 when the cover member body 104 is placed inside the tank 12. The relief hole 106 is an example of a relief section. Note that the outer diameter G2 of the screw 30 is larger than the outer diameter G3 of the rotating shaft 28, so the inner diameter N3 of the relief hole 106 is necessarily larger than the outer diameter G3 of the rotating shaft 28.

[0020] Here, the outer diameter G2 of the screw 30 is the maximum diameter of the rotational trajectory when the screw 30 rotates. For example, in a configuration where the screw 30 has one or more rotating blades, it is the diameter of the outer circumference of the trajectory of the rotation of these rotating blades.

[0021] Furthermore, the cover member body 104 has a communication portion 108 that connects the avoidance hole 106 to the outer circumference of the cover member body 104. In the example shown in Figure 2, the communication portion 108 is linear. In the communication portion 108, the width D1 in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the communication portion 108 is wider than the outer diameter G3 of the rotation axis 28 of the stirring member 26 and is also wider than the thickness T1 of the tank top plate 18.

[0022] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be explained.

[0023] By introducing liquid LQ into tank 12 through the inlet hole 20, the tank becomes filled with liquid LQ as shown in Figure 3. The introduction of liquid LQ causes the liquid level LS in tank 12 to rise. Furthermore, the liquid in tank 12 can be discharged from a discharge member (not shown). The discharge of liquid LQ causes the liquid level LS in tank 12 to drop.

[0024] Since the tank 12 is equipped with a stirring member 26, the liquid inside the tank 12 can be stirred by this stirring member 26.

[0025] With the liquid LQ present in the tank 12 in this manner, the covering member 102 is placed on the liquid surface LS. The covering member 102 covers the liquid surface LS. This suppresses the evaporation of the liquid LQ in the tank 12. Furthermore, because the covering member 102 is on the liquid surface LS, the liquid LQ in the tank 12 is not exposed to the gas inside the tank 12, thus suppressing changes in the properties and physical characteristics of the liquid LQ due to contact with the gas, such as oxidation of the liquid LQ. Moreover, in order to suppress the evaporation and changes of the liquid LQ in the tank 12 in this way, there is no need for components or controls to make the capacity of the tank 12 variable, and the configuration of the tank 12 does not become complicated.

[0026] When the liquid LQ in tank 12 is discharged (dispensed), changes in the liquid LQ are suppressed, so there is no need to readjust the composition of the liquid LQ.

[0027] The specific gravity of the covering member 102 is lower than that of the liquid LQ. Therefore, the covering member 102 does not sink in the liquid LQ and can maintain its covering of the liquid surface LS. Furthermore, the covering member 102 is made of a material that does not undergo chemical changes or deterioration in relation to the liquid and is resistant to it. Since the covering member 102 maintains its original shape, it can also maintain its covering of the liquid surface LS.

[0028] In order to cover the liquid surface LS in this way, one could consider a configuration in which, for example, numerous floating objects are floated on the liquid surface LS. However, using numerous floating objects would require considerable effort to put into and retrieve from the tank 12. In contrast, in the present embodiment disclosed, for example, a large amount of liquid surface LS can be created using a single covering member 102, so that the placement and retrieval of the floating objects in the tank 12 can be done with less effort compared to the case in which numerous floating objects are used.

[0029] The cover member body 104 has a relief hole 106 formed therein. The inner diameter of the relief hole 106 is larger than the outer diameter G2 of the screw 30. Therefore, as shown in Figure 1, when the cover member 102 has lowered to the position of the screw 30 due to the lowering of the liquid level LS, the screw 30 is at the position of the relief hole 106. Thus, contact between the cover member body 104 and the screw 30 is avoided. For example, a situation in which the cover member body 104 separates from the liquid level LS due to contact with the screw 30 by a part of the cover member body 104 riding up on it does not occur. As a result, the cover member body 104 can maintain a state in which it covers the liquid level LS.

[0030] Furthermore, the inner diameter N3 of the avoidance hole 106 is necessarily larger than the outer diameter G3 of the rotating shaft 28. Therefore, even when the liquid level LS in the tank 12 is at the position of the rotating shaft 28 and the rotating shaft 28 is located within the avoidance hole 106, the rotating shaft 28 does not come into contact with the cover member body 104. As a result, the rotating shaft 28 can rotate without being affected by the cover member body 104, and can apply rotational force to the screw 30.

[0031] It should be noted that the avoidance portion that prevents contact between the cover member body 104 and the screw 30 is not limited to such an avoidance hole 106. For example, a part of the cover member body 104 may be cut out in a shape that avoids the screw 30. In contrast, when an avoidance hole 106 is formed, the cover member body 104 is positioned to surround the screw 30. Since the liquid LQ is covered by the cover member body 104 in areas other than the part that avoids contact with the screw 30, it is possible to cover the liquid LQ over a wider area.

[0032] In this embodiment, the outer diameter G1 of the cover member body 104 is larger than the inner diameter N2 of the input hole 20. However, since the cover member body 104 is elastically bendable, it is possible to insert the cover member 102 into the tank 12 through the input hole 20 by appropriately bending it.

[0033] For example, as shown in Figure 4A, the worker deforms the entire cover member body 104 into a cylindrical shape by rolling it up. In this case, the outer diameter G4 of the rolled-up cylinder is made smaller than the inner diameter N2 of the input hole 20.

[0034] Then, as shown in Figure 4B, the cylindrical cover member body 104 is inserted into the input hole 20. At this time, the connecting portion 108 is aligned with the position of the rotation axis 28 of the stirring member 26.

[0035] As shown in Figure 4C, when the entire cover member body 104 is inside the tank 12, the shape of the cover member body 104 returns to a flat disc shape, thereby covering the liquid surface LS.

[0036] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, elements, components, etc., similar to those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted. Also, since the configuration of the tank 12 is the same in each of the following embodiments, a detailed description will be omitted.

[0037] The cover member 202 of the second embodiment has a cover member body 204 that is substantially the same shape as the cover member body 104 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the cover member 202 of the second embodiment is provided with two slits 206A, one slit 206B, three hooks 208A, and two hooks 208B on the cover member body 204. Hooks 208A and 208B are examples of engaged parts.

[0038] The two slits 206A are formed at a central angle of 120 degrees from the communication portion 108 with respect to the center of the cover member body 204. The two slits 206A are also at a central angle of 120 degrees from each other. The two slits 206A are formed from the outer circumference of the cover member body 204 toward the center. The length of the slits 206A is such that the tip of the slit 206A does not reach the center of the cover member body 204.

[0039] One slit 206B is formed to extend from the avoidance hole 106 in the longitudinal direction of the communication portion 108. In the example shown in Figure 6, the length of the slit 206B is such that the tip of the slit 206B reaches the center of the cover member body 204, but it may be shorter.

[0040] In slits 206A and 206B, the width W1 in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is wider than the thickness T1 of the tank top plate 18.

[0041] The three hooks 208A are formed on one surface of the cover member body 204, near the outer circumference of the cover member body 204. Each of the hooks 208A is formed in a region demarcated by two slits 206A and one slit 206B (more precisely, including the avoidance hole 106 and the communication portion 108).

[0042] The two hooks 208B are formed on the same surface of the covering member body 204 as the surface on which hook 208A is formed. The hooks 208B are formed on both sides of the communication portion 108.

[0043] In the second embodiment configured as described above, as in the first embodiment, with the liquid LQ (see FIG. 3) present in the tank 12, the covering member 102 is disposed on the liquid surface LS. Since the covering member 102 covers the liquid surface LS, evaporation of the liquid LQ in the tank 12 is suppressed, and also, the change of the liquid LQ in the tank 12 due to contact with the gas in the tank 12 is suppressed.

[0044] In the covering member 202 of the second embodiment, since the slits 206A and 206B are formed in the covering member main body 204, the operation of inserting into the tank 12 is easy. In FIGS. 7A to 7I used in the following description, illustration of the hooks 208A and 298B is omitted in the covering member 202.

[0045] Specifically, for example, as shown in Figure 7A, the worker grasps a part of the cover member body 204 and places the cover member body 204 against the input hole 20 so that the communication portion 108 faces the rotation axis 28 from the input hole 20. Then, as shown in Figure 7B, the worker inserts a part of the cover member body 204 into the tank 12 so that the tank top plate 18 fits into the communication portion 108. At this time, as shown in Figure 7C, a part of the tank top plate 18 (the edge portion of the input hole 20) fits into the position of the avoidance hole 106, and the width of the portion of the cover member body 204 that substantially passes through the input hole 20 is narrower than the outer diameter G1 of the cover member body 204. Moreover, the portion of the cover member body 204 above the input hole 20 can be appropriately curved. This makes it easy to insert the cover member body 204 into the input hole 20. As shown in Figure 7D, the worker further inserts the cover member body 204 into the input hole 20. As shown in Figure 7E, when the tank top plate 18 is inserted into one of the two slits 206A and slit 206B, the cover member body 204 is supported by the tank top plate 18. In this state, as can be seen by comparing Figure 7D and Figure 7E, the operator can change the gripping position GP of the cover member body 204 to the other gripping position GP. Then, for example as shown in Figure 7F, the operator partially bends the cover member body 204 and inserts the portion of the communication part 108 (the portion located on the upper side of the tank top plate 18) into the input hole 20. As a result, as shown in Figure 7G, the tank top plate 18 is inserted into each of the two slits 206A. At this stage, the rotation axis 28 of the stirring member 26 is located inside the avoidance hole 106. Furthermore, the portion of the cover member body 204 between the two slits 206A is inserted into the input hole 20. As a result, as shown in Figure 7H, the entire cover member body 204 is inside the tank 12. Then, as shown in Figure 7I, the cover member body 204 is positioned above the liquid surface LS.

[0046] Thus, in the cover member 202 of the second embodiment, slits 206A and 206B are formed in the cover member body 204. Therefore, it is possible to limit the portion of the cover member body 204 that needs to be curved, and to change the grip of the cover member body 204 during the insertion work into the insertion hole 20, resulting in high work efficiency.

[0047] In the covering member 202 of the second embodiment, hooks 208A and 208B are formed on the upper surface of the covering member main body 204. For example, when inserting the covering member main body 204 into the insertion hole 20 and when it is placed inside the tank 12, by hooking the hooked pieces 34 of the hook bar 32 on the hooks 208A and 208B, it is possible to adjust the shape and posture of the covering member main body 204. For example, when the deployment (return to a flat shape) of the covering member main body 204 in the tank 12 is insufficient, by hooking the hooked pieces 34 of the hook bar 32 on the hooks 208A and 208B, it is possible to hold the deployment of the covering member main body 204. The hooked piece 34 is an example of an engaging member.

[0048] Also, by hooking the hooked pieces 34 of the hook bar 32 on the hooks 208A and 208B of the covering member main body 204 inside the tank 12, the operation of taking out the covering member 202 from the tank 12 through the insertion hole 20 is also facilitated.

[0049] [[ID=Z]] Next, the third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment as well, for the same elements, members, etc. as in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment or the second embodiment are given, and the detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0050] The covering member 302 of the third embodiment has a closing member 304 in addition to the covering member main body 204 of the second embodiment. The closing member 304 is, for example, made of the same material and has the same thickness as the covering member main body 204.

[0051] The shape of the closing member 304 is, for example, substantially rectangular or substantially elliptical. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the closing member 304 has a shape with semi-circular arc portions at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the rectangle, and may be referred to as an oval track shape or a race track shape. The closing member 304 is shaped such that it can partially block the avoidance hole 106 when overlapped with the covering member main body 204.

[0052] The sealing member 304 has a connecting portion 306 that has the same width D1 as the connecting portion 108 of the covering member body 104. Even when the sealing member 304 is placed on top of the covering member body 104, the connecting portion 306 prevents the connecting portion 108 of the covering member body 104 from being blocked.

[0053] The sealing member 304 has a slit 308 that is continuous with the communication portion 306. Even when the sealing member 304 is placed on top of the cover member body 104, the slit 206A of the cover member body 104 is not blocked.

[0054] In the third embodiment, the cover member body 204 is provided with a protrusion 310. The sealing member 304 is provided with a recess 312 at a position corresponding to the protrusion 310. By fitting the protrusion 310 into the recess 312, the sealing member 304 is superimposed on the cover member body 204 at a predetermined position. The number of protrusions 310 and recesses 312 may be one, but providing multiple protrusions 310 and recesses 312 can suppress unintentional rotation of the sealing member 304 relative to the cover member body 204. The recess 312 may penetrate the sealing member 304, or it may not penetrate and may be formed by partially recessing the lower surface. Alternatively, the relationship between the protrusion 310 and recess 312 may be reversed, that is, the sealing member 304 may have a protrusion and the cover member body 204 may have a recess 312.

[0055] In this third embodiment, as shown in Figure 9A, when the liquid level LS in the tank 12 is above the screw 30, a portion of the avoidance hole 106 of the cover member body 204 can be blocked by the blocking member 304. Since the portion of the liquid level LS at the location of the avoidance hole 106 is also covered by the blocking member 304, evaporation and changes in the liquid LQ can be suppressed more effectively.

[0056] As shown in Figure 9B, even if the liquid level LS drops, the sealing member 304 will continue to descend together with the covering member body 204 and maintain its covering of the liquid level LS until the liquid level LS reaches the position of the screw 30.

[0057] As shown in Figure 9C, when the liquid level LS is below the screw 30, the blocking member 304 catches on the screw 30. Then, the protrusion 310 disengages from the recess 312, and only the covering member body 204 descends together with the liquid level LS. In other words, even when the liquid level LS is below the screw 30, a state in which a portion of the liquid surface is covered by the covering member body 204 can be achieved, similar to the first and second embodiments.

[0058] In practice, the screw 30 has, for example, a screw cover positioned on top, so the rotating blades that make up the screw 30 are not exposed. Therefore, even if the blocking member 304 gets caught on the screw 30, it does not affect the rotation of the screw 30.

[0059] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, elements, components, etc., similar to those in the first to third embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first to third embodiments, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0060] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, in the fourth embodiment, the covering member 402 has a covering member body 404 which includes a plurality of floating plates 406 and a plurality of connecting parts 408.

[0061] The floating plate 406 is a plate-shaped member that is thicker than, for example, the cover member body 104 of the first embodiment. Each of the floating plates 406 may be elastically bendable, but may also have sufficient rigidity to maintain a flat state without substantially bending.

[0062] Each width W2 of the float plate 406 is shorter than the inner diameter N2 of the input hole 20. In particular, as shown in Figure 13, in this example, the width W2 of the float plate 406 is shorter than half the inner diameter N2 of the input hole 20 (see Figure 10).

[0063] The multiple float plates 406, as a whole, form a disc shape having a predetermined outer diameter shorter than the inner diameter of the tank 12, similar to the cover member 102 of the first embodiment.

[0064] The specific gravity of each float plate 406 is made smaller than the specific gravity of the liquid LQ in the tank 12. Similar to the first embodiment, the specific gravity of the material constituting the float plate 406 may be smaller than the specific gravity of the liquid LQ, or the specific gravity of the float plate 406 may be made smaller than the specific gravity of the liquid LQ by, for example, forming a hollow portion in the float plate 406.

[0065] The connecting portion 408 connects multiple floating plates 406. The multiple floating plates 406 are connected by the connecting portion 408, and as a whole, they form the shape of a disc-shaped covering member 402. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 408 is integrally molded with the floating plates 406. The connecting portion 408 is an example of a deformable portion and also an example of a bent structure.

[0066] As shown in Figure 12, the thickness T2 of the connecting portion 408 is shorter than the thickness T3 of the floating plate 406. By making the connecting portion 408 thinner than the floating plate 406 in this way, the floating plate 406 is connected to the connecting portion 408 in a foldable manner. The connecting portion 408 allows the covering member 402 to be bent and deformed by bending the covering member 402, and is an example of a deformable portion. From a different perspective, the connecting portion 408 is a thin-walled portion relative to the floating plate 406 and functions as a thin-walled hinge. In other words, it can be said that multiple floating plates 406 are integrally molded by the connecting portion 408 acting as a thin-walled hinge.

[0067] In the cover member body 404 of the fourth embodiment, one surface of the float plate 406 (the lower surface in Figure 12) and one surface of the connecting portion 408 are on the same plane when the float plate 406 is not bent. In other words, one surface of the float plate 406 and one surface of the connecting portion 408 form a plane. The cover member 402 of the fourth embodiment is placed inside the tank 12 with the side that forms a plane with the float plate 406 and the connecting portion 408 facing downwards.

[0068] In this fourth embodiment, the liquid level LS inside the tank 12 is covered by the sealing member 304, which more effectively suppresses evaporation and changes in the liquid LQ.

[0069] In the fourth embodiment, the cover member 402 has a structure in which a plurality of float plates 406 are connected by a connecting portion 408 in a foldable manner. Therefore, by folding it using the connecting portion 408, the cover member 402 can be inserted into the tank 12 through the input hole 20.

[0070] Specifically, as shown in Figure 14A, the worker folds the cover member body 404 using the connecting portion 408 so that the float plate 406 overlaps. Since the width of the float plate 406 is shorter than the inner diameter of the input hole 20, in this state, as shown in Figure 14B, the cover member 402 is inserted into the tank 12 through the input hole 20. At this time, the cover member is inserted with the connecting portion 108 facing the tip in the insertion direction, and the connecting portion 108 is positioned to align with the rotation axis 28 of the stirring member 26.

[0071] Then, as shown in Figure 14C, the entire cover member 402 is placed inside the tank 12. After that, the folding is released by the connecting part 408 inside the tank 12, and the cover member 402 is spread out into a flat shape, thereby covering the liquid surface LS with the cover member 402.

[0072] In the fourth embodiment, a rod-shaped member or the like may be inserted through the input hole 20 to widen the cover member 402.

[0073] In the fourth embodiment of the covering member 402, the configuration for folding the covering member body 404 is not limited to the linear folding configuration described above. For example, it may be a bellows-like folding configuration or a Miura fold, etc.

[0074] Furthermore, the connecting portion 408 does not have to be integrally molded with the floating plate 406. For example, a structure may be in which multiple floating plates 406 are connected in a foldable manner by a hinge made of a separate component from the floating plates 406.

[0075] Next, the fifth embodiment will be described. In the fifth embodiment, elements, members, etc., similar to those in the first to fourth embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first to fourth embodiments, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0076] As shown in Figure 15A, the cover member 502 of the fifth embodiment has two flexible films 502A. The cover member 502 has a shape with avoidance holes 106 and communication portions 108, and this shape is joined by welding or adhesive around the periphery of the two films 502A. As a result, for example, a cover member body 504 is formed which has the same shape as the cover member body 104 of the first embodiment in a plan view. The two films 502A are sealed, and a space can be formed inside.

[0077] A valve 506 is provided on one side of the film 502A. By connecting a gas supply source (not shown) to the valve 506, gas can be introduced into the inside of the covering member 502, that is, between the two films 502A, causing it to inflate (increase its volume). When the gas is removed from inside the covering member 502, the two films 502A adhere tightly to each other, forming a sheet-like structure. In this sheet-like state, the covering member 502 is flexible. In the fifth embodiment, the two films 502A are configured to be flexible, and the film 502A is an example of a deformable portion.

[0078] A check valve is provided inside the valve 506, and under normal conditions, the outflow of gas from inside the cover member 502 is suppressed. However, opening this check valve allows gas to escape from inside the cover member 502. Opening the check valve can be achieved, for example, by inserting a rod-shaped member into the valve 506 and using this rod-shaped member to push the check valve in.

[0079] In this fifth embodiment, the shape is stable when the cover member 502 is inflated with gas. In contrast to this stable shape, as shown in Figure 15B, when the gas inside the cover member 502 is removed, it can be folded or rolled up to create a shape that can pass through the input hole 20. In this case, it is possible not only to fold the cover member 502 along a predetermined fold line, but also to roll up the entire structure irregularly to create a shape smaller than the inner diameter N2 of the input hole 20.

[0080] Then, after the operator places the cover member 502 into the tank 12, they connect a gas supply source (not shown) to the valve 506 and supply gas to the inside of the cover member 502. As a result, as shown in Figure 15C, the liquid level LS inside the tank 12 is covered, and evaporation and changes in the liquid LQ can be more effectively suppressed. Alternatively, for example, by inserting the rod-shaped member into the valve 506 and opening the check valve of the valve 506, the gas can be removed from the cover member 502, making it flexible. When the cover member 502 is flexible, it is possible to remove the cover member 502 from the tank 12 through the insertion hole 20.

[0081] In the disclosed technology, it is also possible to use the configuration of the first modified example shown in Figure 16. Although Figure 16 shows a configuration using the covering member 302 of the third embodiment, it is also applicable to configurations using the covering member of other embodiments.

[0082] As shown in Figure 16, in the first modified configuration, a guide rod 36 extends from the lower surface of the lid 24. The guide rod 36 is inserted through a cover member 302 located inside the tank 12. In the example in Figure 16, the guide rod 36 is inserted through a slit 206B in the cover member body 204 and a slit 308 in the sealing member 304.

[0083] Therefore, in this modified configuration, even when the screw 30 rotates and the liquid LQ flows in the tank 12, the guide rod 36 can suppress the rotation of the cover member body 204 and the sealing member 304.

[0084] Furthermore, the following appendices are disclosed: (Appendix 1) A covering member having a covering member body that covers the liquid surface in a tank, and a deformable part provided on the covering member body that allows the covering member body to pass through the opening of the tank, unfold inside the tank, and deform to cover the liquid surface. (Appendix 2) The covering member according to Appendix 1, wherein the deformable part is a bending structure that allows the covering member body to be bent and deformed. (Appendix 3) The covering member according to Appendix 2, wherein the bending structure is configured to allow the covering member body to be elastically bendable. (Appendix 4) The covering member according to Appendix 3, having a slit formed from the outer circumference of the covering member body toward the inside. (Appendix 5) The covering member according to Appendix 2, wherein the covering member body includes a plurality of float plates that are narrower than the inner diameter of the opening and float on the liquid in the tank, and a connecting part as the bending structure that foldably connects the plurality of float plates. (Note 6) A covering member according to any one of Notes 1 to 5, having an avoidance portion formed on the covering member body to avoid contact with a stirring member provided in the tank when the covering member body covers the liquid surface. (Note 7) A covering member according to Note 6, wherein the avoidance portion includes an avoidance hole larger in diameter than the screw that agitates the liquid in the tank by rotation in the stirring member. (Note 8) A covering member according to Note 7, having a blocking member superimposed on the covering member body to partially block the avoidance hole. (Note 9) A covering member according to any one of Notes 1 to 8, having an engaged portion provided on the covering member body, into which an engaging member engages from above when the covering member body covers the liquid surface.

[0085] The disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-190063, filed on 29 October 2024, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if the incorporation of each individual document, patent application, and technical standard were specifically and individually noted.

Claims

1. A cover member comprising: a main body covering the liquid surface inside a tank; and a deformable portion provided on the main body of the cover member, which allows the main body of the cover member to pass through the opening of the tank, unfold inside the tank, and deform to cover the liquid surface.

2. The cover member according to claim 1, wherein the deformable portion is a bending structure that allows the cover member body to be bent and deformed.

3. The covering member according to claim 2, wherein the bending structure is configured such that the covering member body can be elastically bent.

4. The covering member according to claim 3, having a slit formed inward from the outer circumference of the covering member body.

5. The covering member according to claim 2, wherein the covering member body includes a plurality of float plates that are narrower than the inner diameter of the opening and float on the liquid in the tank, and a connecting portion that serves as the bending structure portion and connects the plurality of float plates in a foldable manner.

6. The covering member according to claim 1, having an avoidance portion formed on the covering member body to avoid contact with a stirring member provided in the tank when the covering member body covers the liquid surface.

7. The covering member according to claim 6, wherein the avoidance portion includes an avoidance hole with a larger diameter than the screw that agitates the liquid in the tank by rotation in the agitating member.

8. The covering member according to claim 7, further comprising a sealing member superimposed on the covering member body to partially close the avoidance hole.

9. The covering member according to claim 1, having an engaged portion provided on the covering member body, which engages with an engaging member from above while covering the liquid surface.

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