Diaphragm for regulating internal pressure in tank and diaphragm assembly including same

Abstract

According to the present disclosure, a diaphragm for regulating internal pressure in a tank comprises: a diaphragm including a separating boundary part that separates liquids and gases inside the tank, a connection part that extends in one direction from the separating boundary part, a fixing part that extends from the connection part and is bent toward the inside of the diaphragm, thus having a concave shape, and a locking part that extends from the fixing part and at least partially engages with the inner surface of the tank; and a fixing ring provided inside the diaphragm and configured to fix the diaphragm to the tank by pressing the fixing part. The diaphragm includes: a plurality of first outer reinforcing beads that are provided on the outer surface of the separating boundary part and extend radially from the center of the separating boundary part; and a plurality of first inner reinforcing beads that are provided on the inner surface of the separating boundary part and extend radially from the center of the separating boundary part so as to be spatially overlapped with the plurality of first outer reinforcing beads.

Description

A diaphragm for regulating internal pressure of a tank and a diaphragm assembly including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a diaphragm for regulating internal pressure of a tank and a diaphragm assembly including the same.

[0002] In water or brine circulation systems, such as boilers or chillers, repeated expansion and contraction of volume occur due to changes in liquid temperature, which can lead to pressure changes within the system. If these pressure changes are left unchecked, the piping may become overloaded, potentially causing problems such as leaks, damage, or device malfunctions. To address these issues, a diaphragm may be installed inside the tank, and the diaphragm serves to separate the gas and liquid and absorb pressure changes.

[0003] However, when conventional diaphragms are used repeatedly, stress concentration and physical wear occur in specific parts of the diaphragm due to pressure changes, leading to problems such as breakage and shortened lifespan. Additionally, issues arise where the connection between the diaphragm and the fixing ring securing it to the tank is not robust, or where physical damage to the diaphragm occurs due to friction at the connection point.

[0004] The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems.

[0005] Specifically, one of the problems that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a diaphragm with improved durability by preventing stress concentration in specific parts.

[0006] In addition, one of the problems that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a diaphragm that maintains a stable connection state even under repeated pressure changes by firmly securing the connection with the tank.

[0007] In addition, one of the problems that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a diaphragm with improved reliability by preventing physical damage that may occur at the connection site with the fixed ring.

[0008] To achieve the aforementioned objective, a diaphragm assembly for controlling internal pressure of a tank according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a diaphragm disposed inside the tank, the diaphragm comprising: a separation boundary portion for separating liquid and gas inside the tank; a connecting portion extending in one direction from the separation boundary portion; a fixing portion extending from the connecting portion and bent toward the interior of the diaphragm to have a concave shape; and a locking portion extending from the fixing portion and having at least one part engaged with the inner surface of the tank; and a fixing ring provided inside the diaphragm and configured to press the fixing portion to fix the diaphragm to the tank, wherein the diaphragm comprises: a plurality of first external reinforcing beads provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary portion and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary portion; and a plurality of first internal reinforcing beads provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary portion and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary portion so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of first external reinforcing beads.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the diaphragm further comprises: a plurality of second external reinforcing beads provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary and circumferentially extending to surround the center of the separation boundary; and a plurality of second internal reinforcing beads provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary and circumferentially extending to surround the center of the separation boundary so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of second external reinforcing beads.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the first external reinforcing beads and the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads are characterized by extending to the connection portion of the diaphragm.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the diaphragm comprises a curved reinforcing portion that protrudes from the inner surface of the separation boundary and has a thickness that gradually increases toward the center;

[0012] It is characterized by including more.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the curved reinforcing member is connected to be integrated with the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads and is characterized by having a thickness greater than the thickness of the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the diaphragm comprises a plurality of spacing adjustment portions that protrude from the outer surface of the separation boundary portion to form a spacing space between a portion of the diaphragm and the tank and are provided in a shape symmetrical from the center of the separation boundary portion; wherein some of the plurality of first external reinforcing beads are connected to the plurality of spacing adjustment portions, and other portions of the plurality of first external beads extend between adjacent spacing adjustment portions.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the diaphragm is characterized by comprising: a first support projection protruding toward the interior of the diaphragm from a first support portion relatively close to the connecting portion among the portions of the fixing portion to support at least one portion of the fixing ring; and a second support projection protruding toward the interior of the diaphragm from a second support portion relatively close to the catch portion among the portions of the fixing portion to support at least one portion of the fixing ring.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion length of the second support projection is characterized as being greater than the protrusion length of the first support projection.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing ring comprises: a first fixing portion that contacts the first support projection and is provided in a curved shape; and a second fixing portion that contacts the second support projection and is provided in a curved shape; wherein the fixing portion of the diaphragm is characterized by having a first fixing groove with a concave shape that accommodates the first fixing portion and a second fixing groove with a concave shape that accommodates the second fixing portion.

[0018] Additionally, as an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a diaphragm is provided having a separation boundary portion configured to regulate pressure inside a tank and to separate liquid and gas inside the tank, comprising: a plurality of first external reinforcing beads provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary portion and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary portion; a plurality of first internal reinforcing beads provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary portion and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary portion so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of first external reinforcing beads; a plurality of second external reinforcing beads provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary portion and extending circumferentially to surround the center of the separation boundary portion; a plurality of second internal reinforcing beads provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary portion and extending circumferentially to surround the center of the separation boundary portion so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of second external reinforcing beads; and a curved reinforcing portion protruding from the inner surface of the separation boundary portion, with a thickness that gradually increases toward the center and connected to be integrated with the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads.

[0019] The diaphragm of the present disclosure may include a plurality of reinforcing beads protruding radially and circumferentially from the outer and inner surfaces, so that stress is not concentrated in a specific part of the diaphragm, thereby improving the durability of the diaphragm.

[0020] In addition, the diaphragm of the present disclosure may include a support projection that supports at least one part of a fixed ring, so that the diaphragm can maintain a stable coupling state with the fixed ring even under repeated pressure changes.

[0021] In addition, the edge portion of the fixing ring of the present disclosure may be formed as a curved surface, and a portion of the diaphragm receiving the fixing ring may be provided in a concave shape, so that physical damage to the diaphragm caused by the fixing ring can be prevented.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a diaphragm according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a diaphragm according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a diaphragm according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional view of a portion of a diaphragm according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a part of a diaphragm installed in a tank according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the area marked 'A' in Figure 1.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a fixing ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the coupling relationship between the diaphragm and the fixing ring according to a comparative example.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the coupling relationship between a diaphragm and a fixing ring according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a diaphragm assembly coupled to a tank according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] A diaphragm assembly for controlling internal pressure of a tank according to the present disclosure comprises: a diaphragm disposed inside the tank, the diaphragm comprising: a separation boundary portion for separating liquid and gas inside the tank; a connecting portion extending in one direction from the separation boundary portion; a fixing portion extending from the connecting portion and bent toward the interior of the diaphragm to have a concave shape; and a locking portion extending from the fixing portion and having at least one part engaged with the inner surface of the tank; and a fixing ring provided inside the diaphragm and configured to press the fixing portion to fix the diaphragm to the tank, wherein the diaphragm comprises: a plurality of first external reinforcing beads provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary portion and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary portion; and a plurality of first internal reinforcing beads provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary portion and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary portion so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of first external reinforcing beads.

[0033] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The advantages and features of the present disclosure and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the attached drawings. However, the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments but can be implemented in various different forms. The following embodiments are provided merely to complete the technical concept of the present disclosure and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the present disclosure, and the technical concept of the present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0034] It should be noted that when assigning reference numerals to the components of each drawing, the same components are given the same reference numeral whenever possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the present disclosure, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions could obscure the essence of the present disclosure, such detailed description is omitted.

[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) may be used in a meaning commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Additionally, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not to be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. The terms used herein are for describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit this disclosure. In this specification, the singular form includes the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text.

[0036] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used to describe the components of the present disclosure. These terms are intended only to distinguish the components from other components and do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components. Where it is stated that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or joined to the other component, but that another component may also be "connected," "coupled," or "joined" between each component.

[0037] As used in this disclosure, "comprises" and / or "comprising" do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, steps, actions, and / or elements to the mentioned components, steps, actions, and / or elements.

[0038] Components included in any one embodiment and components having common functions may be described using the same names in other embodiments. Unless otherwise stated, the descriptions in any one embodiment may also apply to other embodiments, and specific descriptions may be omitted within the scope of overlap or within the scope that is obvious to a person skilled in the art.

[0039] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments of the present invention and the accompanying drawings.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a diaphragm (100) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a top view of a diaphragm (100) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of a diaphragm (100) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Hereinafter, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0042] The diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure can be installed inside a tank (Fig. 10, 300) to separate liquid and gas, and can be configured to control pressure changes inside the tank (300). That is, the diaphragm (100) can be configured to efficiently control pressure changes resulting from volume changes of liquid caused by temperature changes inside the tank (300).

[0043] Referring together to FIGS. 1 to 3, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may be provided in a shape corresponding to a part of the tank in which the diaphragm (100) is installed. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the diaphragm (100) may be provided in a bowl shape or a hemispherical shape. However, it is not limited thereto, and the diaphragm (100) may be provided in a variety of other shapes.

[0044] The diaphragm (100) may include a separation boundary (110) for separating liquid and gas inside a tank (300), a connecting portion (120) extending in one direction from the separation boundary (110), a fixing portion (130) extending from the connecting portion (120) and bent toward the interior of the diaphragm (100) to have a concave shape, and a catch portion (140) extending from the fixing portion (130) and having at least one part caught on the inner surface of the tank (300).

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the separation boundary (110) is a part of a diaphragm (100) that physically separates the liquid and the gas inside the tank. Additionally, the separation boundary (110) may be configured to be deformable inside the tank to absorb pressure changes based on volume changes of the liquid caused by temperature changes.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, the separation boundary (110) may be provided in a curved shape to evenly distribute pressure and maintain durability. For example, the separation boundary (110) may be provided in a dome shape. However, the shape of the separation boundary (110) is not limited to the above.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the connecting portion (120) is a part of the diaphragm (100) that extends in one direction from the separation boundary portion (110). The one direction may be defined as a direction parallel to an imaginary line passing vertically through the center portion of the separation boundary portion (110). In an exemplary embodiment, the connecting portion (120) may connect the separation boundary portion (110) and the fixing portion (130) to be described later.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixed portion (130) may be extended from the connecting portion (120) and bent toward the interior of the diaphragm (100) to be provided in a concave shape.

[0049] Additionally, the fixed portion (130) may be a part of the diaphragm (100) that is coupled to the tank by a fixed ring (200) to be described later. Accordingly, the separation boundary portion (110) and the connecting portion (120) of the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may move up and down relative to the fixed portion (130) based on pressure changes.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the catch portion (140) may be configured to extend from the fixing portion (130) and at least one portion may be caught on the inner surface of the tank. Specifically, the catch portion (140) may include a catch projection (143) formed on the outer surface of the diaphragm (100). Since the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include the catch projection (143), the diaphragm (100) may be firmly coupled to the tank.

[0051] It is desirable that the separation boundary (110) and the connecting part (120) of the diaphragm (100) be free to move inside the tank so as to prevent sticking to the tank. Alternatively, it is desirable that the fixing part (130) and the locking part (140) of the diaphragm (100) be firmly coupled to the inner surface of the tank to allow movement of the separation boundary (110) and the connecting part (120).

[0052] The diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a locking projection (143), so that the fixed portion (130) and the locking portion (140) of the diaphragm (100) are firmly coupled to the inner surface of the tank, while the separation boundary portion (110) and the connecting portion (120) can move freely inside the tank.

[0053] The diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) that are provided on the outer surface of a separation boundary (110) and extend radially from the center of the separation boundary (110). The radial direction may be defined as a direction away from the center of the separation boundary (110).

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may be provided symmetrically from the center of the separation boundary (110). For example, as shown in FIG. 2, when a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) are provided in eight, the eight first external reinforcing beads (151a to 151h) may be arranged symmetrically at 45-degree intervals. However, the number and arrangement of the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) are not limited to those described above.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may be provided integrated with the separation boundary (110). Specifically, the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) and the separation boundary (110) may be provided with the same material (e.g., rubber) to be integrated.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, some (151a, 151c, 151e, 151g) of the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may be connected to a spacing adjustment member (160) to be described later. Additionally, other some (151b, 151d, 151f, 151h) of the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may extend radially between adjacent spacing adjustment members (160).

[0057] For example, some (151a, 151c, 151e, 151g) may not be interconnected between the first outer reinforcing beads facing each other (e.g., 151a, 151e) by being connected to the spacing adjustment part (160). Other parts (151b, 151d, 151f, 151h) may be interconnected between the first outer reinforcing beads facing each other (e.g., 151b, 151f) to be integrated.

[0058] The first external reinforcing beads (151) of the present disclosure can more evenly distribute repetitive pressure changes or externally applied forces, thereby preventing stress from concentrating on specific parts of the diaphragm (100). Accordingly, fatigue damage occurring on specific parts of the diaphragm (100) can be effectively prevented, physical damage to the diaphragm (100) can be reduced, and durability can be improved.

[0059] Additionally, the first external reinforcing beads (151) of the present disclosure may be provided on the outer surface of the diaphragm (100) to reduce the contact area between the tank and the diaphragm (100). Accordingly, the first external reinforcing beads (151) allow the diaphragm (100) to move freely inside the tank and can suppress the phenomenon of sticking by reducing the contact area between the diaphragm (100) and the tank.

[0060] The above-mentioned sticking phenomenon may be a phenomenon in which the diaphragm (100) is excessively in close contact with the tank and physically adheres to it. The above-mentioned sticking phenomenon may restrict the normal movement of the diaphragm (100), and consequently, the pressure regulating function of the diaphragm (100) may be reduced.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may extend to the connection portion (120) of the diaphragm (100). That is, a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may extend to the side portion of the diaphragm (100). Accordingly, the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) can distribute stress not only to the central portion of the diaphragm (100) but also to the side portion.

[0062] Additionally, the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) can allow the side portion of the diaphragm (100) to move freely, thereby helping the diaphragm (100) to operate stably even under repeated pressure changes. Furthermore, the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) can reduce the contact area between the side portion of the diaphragm (100) and the tank, thereby suppressing the aforementioned sticking phenomenon and improving the durability and operating efficiency of the diaphragm (100).

[0063] The diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a plurality of first internal reinforcing beads (171) that are provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary (110) and extend radially from the center of the separation boundary (110) so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151).

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first internal reinforcing beads (171) may be provided symmetrically from the center of the separation boundary (110). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, when a plurality of first internal reinforcing beads (171) are provided in eight, the eight first internal reinforcing beads (171a to 171h) may be arranged symmetrically at 45-degree intervals. However, the number and arrangement of the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads (171) are not limited to those described above.

[0065] In the following, overlapping details between the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads (171) and the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) will be omitted, and the differences will be explained in detail.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of first internal reinforcing beads (171) and a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may be spatially overlapped. Specifically, when the diaphragm (100) is viewed from a planar perspective, the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads (171) and the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may be spatially overlapped. This overlapping structure can further enhance the structural stability of the diaphragm (100) by maximizing the bonding effect between the reinforcing beads formed on the inner and outer surfaces of the separation boundary (110).

[0067] Due to the above-mentioned overlapping structure, the diaphragm (100) can be designed such that the protrusion length of the first external reinforcing beads (151) protruding from the surface of the separation boundary (110) is reduced. This design can improve durability by minimizing the impact on fluid flow inside the tank and simultaneously alleviating stress concentration that may occur in the diaphragm (100). Additionally, a plurality of first internal reinforcing beads (171) and a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) can be provided with substantially similar sizes and shapes.

[0068] Additionally, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a plurality of second external reinforcing beads (153) that are provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary (110) and extend in a circumferential direction surrounding the center of the separation boundary (110). The circumferential direction may be defined as a direction surrounding the center of the separation boundary (110) and may be defined as a direction perpendicular to the aforementioned radial direction.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of second external reinforcing beads (153) may be provided in circular shapes of various sizes. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, when a plurality of second external reinforcing beads (153) are provided in three, the three second external reinforcing beads (153a to 153c) may be arranged in circular shapes that surround each other. However, the number and arrangement of the plurality of second external reinforcing beads (153) are not limited to those described above.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of second external reinforcing beads (153) may connect the aforementioned plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151). Accordingly, the bonding strength between the reinforcing structures of the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure is improved, thereby maximizing the stress distribution effect and improving the durability of the diaphragm (100).

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of second external reinforcing beads (153) may be integrated with a plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) and may be provided with a material substantially identical to the material of the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151).

[0072] Additionally, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a plurality of second inner reinforcing beads (173) that are provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary (110) and extend circumferentially from the center of the separation boundary (110) so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of second outer reinforcing beads (153).

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of second internal reinforcing beads (173) may be provided in the shape of circles of different sizes surrounding the center of the separation boundary (110). For example, as shown in FIG. 3, when a plurality of second internal reinforcing beads (173) are provided in three, the three second internal reinforcing beads (173a to 173c) may be provided as three circles of different sizes surrounding the center of the separation boundary (110). However, the number and arrangement of the plurality of second internal reinforcing beads (173) are not limited to those described above.

[0074] In the following, overlapping details between the multiple second internal reinforcing beads (173) and the multiple second external reinforcing beads (153) will be omitted, and the differences will be explained in detail.

[0075] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of second inner reinforcing beads (173) and a plurality of second outer reinforcing beads (153) may be spatially overlapped. Additionally, a plurality of second inner reinforcing beads (173) and a plurality of second outer reinforcing beads (153) may be provided with substantially similar sizes and shapes. This overlapping structure can further enhance the structural stability of the diaphragm (100) by maximizing the bonding effect between the reinforcing beads formed on the inner and outer surfaces of the separation boundary (110).

[0076] Due to the above-mentioned overlapping structure, the diaphragm (100) can be designed such that the protrusion length of the first external reinforcing beads (153) protruding from the surface of the separation boundary (110) is reduced. This design can improve durability by further mitigating stress concentration that may occur in the diaphragm (100) while minimizing the impact on fluid flow inside the tank.

[0077] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a cross-sectional view of a portion of a diaphragm (100) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is also a drawing showing a portion of a diaphragm (100) installed in a tank according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 together, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a curved reinforcing portion (180) that protrudes from the inner surface of the separation boundary portion (110) and has a thickness that gradually increases toward the center (i.e., has a thickness that gradually decreases toward the edge).

[0079] The part of the diaphragm (100) where the greatest force acts is the center of the separation boundary (110), and the center of the separation boundary (110) is at the greatest risk of physical damage due to repeated pressure changes.

[0080] To prevent this, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may be provided with a curved reinforcement (180) having an elliptical curved surface on the inner surface of the separation boundary (110). The curved reinforcement (180) can strengthen the rigidity of the separation boundary (110) and effectively disperse stress concentration caused by pressure changes, thereby improving the durability of the diaphragm (100).

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, the curved reinforcement (180) is connected to be integrated with the first internal reinforcement bead (171) so as to distribute force evenly across the front of the separation boundary (110).

[0082] Additionally, the shape of the curved reinforcement (180) can be provided as an elliptical curved surface with a thickness that decreases toward the edge, so that the deformation of the separation boundary (110) of the diaphragm (100) based on pressure change can be natural. Additionally, since the shape of the curved reinforcement (180) can be provided as an elliptical curved surface, the fluid can flow smoothly along the curved surface, and accordingly, flow imbalance caused by fluid flow resistance can be minimized.

[0083] Additionally, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a plurality of spacing adjustment portions (160) that protrude from the outer surface of the separation boundary portion (110) and are provided in a shape symmetrical from the center of the separation boundary portion (110).

[0084] A plurality of spacing adjustment parts (160) are provided to maintain a gap between the diaphragm (100) and the tank (300), thereby ensuring free movement of the diaphragm (100) and preventing sticking.

[0085] Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of gap adjustment portions (160) may include an undercut on the side to facilitate removal from the mold after the molding of the diaphragm (100) is completed. For example, the plurality of gap adjustment portions (160) may have a groove on the side. Due to this undercut structure, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure can be smoothly separated from the mold.

[0086] In an exemplary embodiment, the spacing adjustment portion (160) may be connected to some (151a, 151c, 151e, 151g) of the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) to be integrated. Additionally, other portions (151b, 151d, 151f, 151h) of the plurality of first external reinforcing beads (151) may extend radially between adjacent spacing adjustment portions (160).

[0087] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the area marked 'A' in Figure 1.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 6, the locking portion (140) of the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a locking projection (143) formed on the outer surface of the diaphragm (100).

[0089] The diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a locking projection (143), so that the diaphragm (100) can be firmly coupled to the tank. Specifically, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a locking projection (143), so that the fixed portion (130) and the locking portion (140) of the diaphragm (100) are firmly coupled to the inner surface of the tank, while the separation boundary portion (110) and the connecting portion (120) can move freely inside the tank.

[0090] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a fixed ring (200) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the coupling relationship between a diaphragm (100') and a fixed ring (200') according to a comparative example. FIG. 9 is also a drawing showing the coupling relationship between a diaphragm (100) and a fixed ring (200) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 7, the fixing ring (200) of the present disclosure may be provided inside the diaphragm (100) and configured to press the fixing part (130) of the diaphragm (100) outwardly to fix the diaphragm (100) to the tank.

[0092] In an exemplary embodiment, the cross-section of the fixed ring (200) may have a shape bent toward the inside of the diaphragm (100). For example, the cross-section of the fixed ring (200) may have a 'V' or 'U' shape rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise.

[0093] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing ring (200) may include a first fixing portion (210) that contacts a first support projection (131) of the fixing portion (130) to be described later and has an edge provided in a curved shape. Additionally, the fixing ring (200) may include a second fixing portion (230) that contacts a second support projection (133) of the fixing portion (130) to be described later and has an edge provided in a curved shape.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 8, the edge portion of the fixed ring (200') according to the comparative example is provided as a flat surface rather than a curved shape, so the edge portion may be sharp. Accordingly, a part of the diaphragm (100') in contact with the fixed ring (200') according to the comparative example is at risk of being physically damaged by the edge of the fixed ring (200').

[0095] In addition, the diaphragm (100') according to the comparative example cannot support the fixed ring (200') in the vertical direction, so the connection between the diaphragm (100') and the fixed ring (200') may be weakened by the frequent movement of the diaphragm (100'). Accordingly, the diaphragm (100') may detach from the fixed ring (200') in the vertical direction.

[0096] In addition, as the side of the diaphragm (100') according to the comparative example comes into contact with the inner surface of the tank (300') over a relatively large area, a sticking phenomenon may occur between the diaphragm (100') and the tank (300'). This sticking phenomenon restricts the free movement of the diaphragm (100') and may lead to performance degradation and difficulties in maintenance during long-term use.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 9, the fixing portion (130) of the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may support the first fixing portion (210) of the fixing ring (200) at a first supporting portion that is relatively close to the connecting portion (120) among the portions of the fixing portion (130). Additionally, the fixing portion (130) may have a first fixing groove (131A) provided in a concave shape to accommodate the first fixing portion (210) of the fixing ring (200).

[0098] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing portion (130) may include a first support projection (131) that protrudes from the first support portion toward the interior of the diaphragm (100) and supports at least a portion of the fixing ring (200). The first support projection (131) can firmly secure the connection between the diaphragm (100) and the fixing ring (200) to prevent the diaphragm (100) from detaching from the fixing ring (200).

[0099] The fixing portion (130) of the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may support a second fixing portion (230) of the fixing ring (200) at a second supporting portion that is relatively close to the catch portion (140) among the portions of the fixing portion (130). Additionally, the fixing portion (130) may have a second fixing groove (133A) provided in a concave shape to accommodate the second fixing portion (230) of the fixing ring (200).

[0100] The first fixing portion (210) and the second fixing portion (230) of the fixing ring (200) of the present disclosure are provided in a curved shape, and the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may have a first fixing groove (131A) and a second fixing groove (133B) in a concave shape that accommodate the first fixing portion (210) and the second fixing portion (230), so that physical damage to the diaphragm (100) by the fixing ring (200) can be prevented.

[0101] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixing portion (130) may include a second support projection (133) that protrudes from the second support portion toward the interior of the diaphragm (100) and supports at least a portion of the fixing ring (200). The second support projection (133) can firmly secure the connection between the diaphragm (100) and the fixing ring (200) to prevent the diaphragm (100) from detaching from the fixing ring (200).

[0102] The separation boundary (110) and the connection (120) provided on one side of the fixed part (130) of the diaphragm (100) must be free to move based on pressure changes in the tank, and the locking part (140) provided on the other side of the fixed part (130) of the diaphragm (100) must be restricted from moving even with pressure changes in the tank.

[0103] To this end, the protrusion length of the second support projection (133) of the present disclosure may be provided to be longer than the protrusion length of the first support projection (131). Accordingly, the separation boundary portion (110) and the connection portion (120) of the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may move freely based on pressure changes within the tank by means of the first support projection (131) having a relatively short protrusion length. On the other hand, the movement of the locking portion (140) may be restricted even by pressure changes within the tank by means of the second support projection (133) having a relatively long protrusion length. Due to this structure of the diaphragm (100), both the operational efficiency and the coupling strength of the diaphragm (100) may be improved.

[0104] In addition, the locking portion (140) of the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure may include a locking projection (143), so that the fixing portion (130) and the locking portion (140) of the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure can be firmly coupled to the inner surface of the tank.

[0105] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a diaphragm assembly (10) coupled to a tank (300) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 10, the diaphragm assembly (10) of the present disclosure may include a diaphragm (100) and a fixing ring (200) configured to connect the diaphragm (100) to a tank (300).

[0107] The technical concept regarding the diaphragm (100) and the fixing ring (200) of the present disclosure overlaps with the description made with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, so detailed information is omitted.

[0108] An air injection valve (500) may be provided in one part of the tank (300), and a liquid connection valve (400) may be provided in another part of the tank (300). For example, the air injection valve (500) may be sealed by a separate sealing member after filling the inside of the tank (300) with air. Additionally, expansion and contraction of the volume may occur repeatedly due to changes in the liquid temperature inside the tank (300), which may result in changes in pressure inside the tank (300).

[0109] The diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure can maintain the pressure inside the tank (300) by moving up and down inside the tank (300). For example, the diaphragm (100) of the present disclosure can absorb the pressure change inside the tank (300) by moving based on the pressure change inside the tank (300) as shown by the dotted line (B) in FIG. 10.

[0110] As described above, exemplary embodiments have been disclosed in the drawings and specification. Although specific terms have been used to describe the embodiments in this specification, they are used only for the purpose of explaining the technical concept of this disclosure and are not intended to limit the meaning or the scope of this disclosure as defined in the claims. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the true technical scope of protection of this disclosure should be determined by the technical concept of the appended claims.

Claims

1. As a diaphragm assembly for regulating internal tank pressure, A diaphragm disposed inside the tank, comprising: a separation boundary portion for separating liquid and gas inside the tank; a connecting portion extending in one direction from the separation boundary portion; a fixing portion extending from the connecting portion and bent toward the interior of the diaphragm to have a concave shape; and a catch portion extending from the fixing portion and having at least one part catch on the inner surface of the tank; and A fixing ring provided inside the above diaphragm and configured to fix the diaphragm to the tank by pressing the fixing part; Includes, The above diaphragm is, A plurality of first external reinforcing beads provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary portion and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary portion; and A plurality of first internal reinforcing beads provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of first external reinforcing beads; A diaphragm assembly including 2. In Paragraph 1, The above diaphragm is, A plurality of second external reinforcing beads extended in a circumferential direction, provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary portion and surrounding the center of the separation boundary portion; and A plurality of second internal reinforcing beads extending in a circumferential direction to surround the center of the separation boundary, provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary and spatially overlapping with the plurality of second external reinforcing beads; A diaphragm assembly characterized by further including 3. In Paragraph 1, A diaphragm assembly characterized in that the first external reinforcing beads and the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads extend to the connection portion of the diaphragm.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above diaphragm is, A curved reinforcing member protruding from the inner surface of the aforementioned separation boundary and having a thickness that gradually increases toward the center; A diaphragm assembly characterized by further including 5. In Paragraph 4, The above curved reinforcement part is, A diaphragm assembly characterized by being connected to be integrated with the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads and having a thickness greater than the thickness of the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above diaphragm is, A plurality of gap adjustment portions protruding from the outer surface of the separation boundary portion to form a gap space between a part of the diaphragm and the tank, and provided in a shape symmetrical from the center of the separation boundary portion; Includes, Some of the plurality of first external reinforcing beads are connected to the plurality of spacing adjustment parts, and A diaphragm assembly characterized in that some of the other parts of the plurality of first outer beads extend between adjacent spacing adjustment parts.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above diaphragm is, A first support projection protruding toward the interior of the diaphragm from a first support portion relatively close to the connecting portion among the portions of the fixed portion above, and supporting at least one portion of the fixed ring; and A second support projection protruding toward the interior of the diaphragm from a second support portion relatively close to the catch portion among the portions of the fixed portion above, supporting at least one portion of the fixed ring; A diaphragm assembly characterized by including 8. In Paragraph 7, A diaphragm assembly characterized in that the protrusion length of the second support projection is greater than the protrusion length of the first support projection.

9. In Paragraph 7, The above fixed ring is, A first fixing part that contacts the first support projection and is provided in a curved shape; and A second fixed part that contacts the second support projection and is provided in a curved shape; Includes, The fixed part of the above diaphragm is, A diaphragm assembly characterized by having a first fixing groove with a concave shape that accommodates the first fixing part and a second fixing groove with a concave shape that accommodates the second fixing part.

10. A diaphragm configured to regulate the pressure inside a tank and having a separation boundary that separates the liquid and gas inside the tank, A plurality of first external reinforcing beads provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary; A plurality of first internal reinforcing beads provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary and extending radially from the center of the separation boundary so as to spatially overlap with the plurality of first external reinforcing beads; A plurality of second external reinforcing beads extended in a circumferential direction, provided on the outer surface of the separation boundary and surrounding the center of the separation boundary; A plurality of second internal reinforcing beads extending in a circumferential direction that surround the center of the separation boundary and are provided on the inner surface of the separation boundary and spatially overlap with the plurality of second external reinforcing beads; and A curved reinforcing member protruding from the inner surface of the separation boundary portion, with a thickness that gradually increases toward the center and connected to be integrated with the plurality of first internal reinforcing beads; A diaphragm containing

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