JP2012016982A

JP2012016982A - Nipple device of fuel tank

Info

Publication number: JP2012016982A
Application number: JP2010154486A
Authority: JP
Inventors: Hiroki Saito; 裕樹齊藤; Kosuke Kawai; 功介河合
Original assignee: Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd
Current assignee: Subaru Corp
Priority date: 2010-07-07
Filing date: 2010-07-07
Publication date: 2012-01-26
Anticipated expiration: 2030-07-07
Also published as: JP5613483B2

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a nipple device of a fuel tank that allows turning of a nipple and achieves suppression of the projection amount of the nipple or the like.SOLUTION: The nipple device includes a cap 11 mounted on the outer wall 2 of a fuel tank 1, and a nipple 30 connected with a fuel tube. The cap 11 has a base 12 mounted on the outer wall 2 of the fuel tank 1, and a holder 17 protruding to the inside of the tank from the base 12 and configured such that an opening 20, having a shaft holding part 25 and a locking part 26, penetrates therethrough. The nipple 30 includes: a shaft part 34 extended to a body part 31 and turnably fitted to the shaft holding part 25; an engaging part 35 that is engaged with the locking part 26 by insertion of the shaft part 34 into the shaft holding part and turning of the shaft part in order to regulate displacement in a coming-off direction of the shaft part 34 and to turnably hold the shaft part; and a piping connection part 39 extending to the body part 31 and connected with the fuel tube 7.

Description

本発明は、燃料タンクのニップル装置に関し、特に自動車の燃料タンクに燃料チューブを接続するニップル装置に関する。 The present invention relates to a nipple device for a fuel tank, and more particularly to a nipple device for connecting a fuel tube to a fuel tank of an automobile.

例えば自動車の燃料タンクは、一般に車体後部のフロアパネル下側に配置される。燃料タンク内には燃料ポンプが配置され、燃料ポンプによって燃料が燃料供給チューブを介してエンジンに供給される。またエンジンにおいて余剰となった燃料は、燃料リターンチューブを介して燃料タンクに還流される。更に燃料タンクには、燃料タンク内の蒸発燃料をキャニスタ等に導出するための蒸発燃料導出チューブが設けられる。 For example, a fuel tank of an automobile is generally disposed below a floor panel at the rear of the vehicle body. A fuel pump is disposed in the fuel tank, and fuel is supplied to the engine via the fuel supply tube by the fuel pump. The surplus fuel in the engine is returned to the fuel tank through the fuel return tube. Further, the fuel tank is provided with an evaporative fuel outlet tube for deriving the evaporated fuel in the fuel tank to a canister or the like.

これら燃料供給チューブ、燃料リターンチューブ、蒸発燃料導出チューブ等を燃料タンクに接続する樹脂製のニップル装置が燃料タンクに装着される。ニップル装置は、燃料タンクの外壁の上面部に開口形成されたニップル装置取付部に装着されるキャップ部及びキャップ部からＬ字状に折曲して突出するパイプ状の各ニップルを備え、各ニップルに燃料供給チューブ、燃料リターンチューブ、蒸発燃料導出チューブの基端部が嵌合して接続される。このニップル装置のキャップ部は燃料ポンプを保持する燃料ポンプ保持機能も兼備する。 A resin nipple device that connects the fuel supply tube, the fuel return tube, the evaporated fuel lead-out tube and the like to the fuel tank is mounted on the fuel tank. The nipple device includes a cap portion attached to a nipple device mounting portion formed in an upper surface portion of the outer wall of the fuel tank, and pipe-shaped nipples that bend and project in an L shape from the cap portion. The base ends of the fuel supply tube, the fuel return tube, and the evaporated fuel lead-out tube are fitted and connected to each other. The cap portion of the nipple device also has a fuel pump holding function for holding the fuel pump.

燃料タンクに設けられたニップル装置の各ニップルに燃料供給チューブ、燃料リターンチューブ、蒸発燃料導出用チューブ等の燃料チューブの基端部を取り付ける際には、燃料タンクの外壁から燃料チューブの取付位置までの距離が少ないほど燃料タンク周辺の有効空間、いわゆる空間効率が確保できることから、燃料タンクの外壁から突出するニップルの突出量を抑制することが好ましい。 When attaching the base end of a fuel tube such as a fuel supply tube, fuel return tube, or evaporative fuel outlet tube to each nipple of the nipple device provided in the fuel tank, from the outer wall of the fuel tank to the fuel tube attachment position Since the effective space around the fuel tank, that is, so-called space efficiency, can be ensured as the distance is smaller, it is preferable to suppress the protruding amount of the nipple protruding from the outer wall of the fuel tank.

また、燃料チューブの長さにバラツキがあると燃料チューブの撓みや緊張等により燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブの基端部が延在する方向にバラツキが発生し、燃料チューブが接続されるニップルに対してねじれ方向や回動方向の負荷が作用し、ニップルの基部付近にクリープによる亀裂、いわゆるクリープ亀裂の発生が懸念される。更に、ニップルに接続される樹脂製の燃料チューブの基端部が湾曲あるいは折曲して燃料チューブにも負荷が付与される。また、車種等の仕様間において燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブの基端部が延在する方向が異なるものが多く、ニップルに過剰の負荷が作用してニップル装置の耐久性の低下が懸念される。 Also, if there is variation in the length of the fuel tube, the variation in the direction in which the base end of the fuel tube extends from the fuel tank due to bending or tension of the fuel tube, and the nipple to which the fuel tube is connected There is a concern about the occurrence of cracks due to creep, that is, so-called creep cracks, near the base of the nipple due to the load in the twisting direction and the rotational direction. Further, the base end portion of the resin fuel tube connected to the nipple is curved or bent, so that a load is also applied to the fuel tube. Further, there are many cases where the direction in which the base end portion of the fuel tube extends with respect to the fuel tank differs between specifications such as the vehicle type, and there is a concern that an excessive load acts on the nipple and lowers the durability of the nipple device.

これらに対処すべく燃料チューブ基端部の延在方向に従ってニップルの回動を許容してニップルへの負荷を軽減するニップル装置の一例として特許文献１がある。 In order to cope with these problems, Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a nipple device that allows the nipple to rotate in accordance with the extending direction of the fuel tube base end portion and reduces the load on the nipple.

この特許文献１のニップル装置を図５及び図６を参照して説明する。図５はニップル装置１００の概要を示す斜視図であり、図６は図５のＶＩ−ＶＩ線断面図である。 The nipple device disclosed in Patent Document 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 is a perspective view showing an outline of the nipple device 100, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in FIG.

ニップル装置１００は、燃料タンクの外壁における上面部に開口形成されたニップル装置取付部に嵌合するキャップ部１０１及びニップル１１０を有する。キャップ部１０１にニップル取付用の開口部１０２及びコネクタ１０９が設けられる。このコネクタ１０９は燃料ポンプのポンプモータを外部機器と電気的に接続するために用いられる。 The nipple device 100 includes a cap portion 101 and a nipple 110 that are fitted into a nipple device mounting portion that is formed in the upper surface portion of the outer wall of the fuel tank. The cap portion 101 is provided with an opening 102 for attaching a nipple and a connector 109. This connector 109 is used to electrically connect the pump motor of the fuel pump to an external device.

開口部１０２の周囲に、この開口部１０２を隔てて対向する一対のクリップ保持部１０４、１０５が突設される。一方のクリップ保持部１０４にクリップ挿入口１０４ａが形成され、他方のクリップ保持部１０５にクリップ１１７の先端１１７ａを係止するクリップ係止部１０５ａが形成される。また、図６に示すようにキャップ部１０１の開口部１０２内に開口部１０２の内周面との間に隙間を有する円筒状の被挿入部１０３が一体に形成される。 Around the opening 102, a pair of clip holding portions 104 and 105 are provided so as to face each other with the opening 102 therebetween. A clip insertion opening 104 a is formed in one clip holding portion 104, and a clip locking portion 105 a that locks the tip 117 a of the clip 117 is formed in the other clip holding portion 105. Further, as shown in FIG. 6, a cylindrical inserted portion 103 having a gap with the inner peripheral surface of the opening 102 is integrally formed in the opening 102 of the cap 101.

一方、ニップル１１０は、図６に示すようにＬ字状であって、その基端側に開口部１０２と被挿入部１０３の間に回動可能に嵌入する円筒状の嵌合部１１１が形成され、嵌合部１１１の上部にフランジ状のストッパ部１１２が形成され、このストッパ部１１２の上方に形成される本体部１１３、及び本体部１１３の側部に固定される円筒状の配管接続部１１４を有する。このニップル１１０の嵌合部１１１の内部にはＯリング１１５ａ、スペーサ１１５ｂ、Ｏリング１１５ｃ及びストッパ１１５ｄが配設される。 On the other hand, the nipple 110 is L-shaped as shown in FIG. 6, and a cylindrical fitting portion 111 that is rotatably fitted between the opening portion 102 and the insertion portion 103 is formed on the base end side thereof. A flange-shaped stopper portion 112 is formed on the upper portion of the fitting portion 111, a main body portion 113 formed above the stopper portion 112, and a cylindrical pipe connection portion fixed to a side portion of the main body portion 113. 114. An O-ring 115a, a spacer 115b, an O-ring 115c, and a stopper 115d are disposed inside the fitting portion 111 of the nipple 110.

このＯリング１１５ａ、スペーサ１１５ｂ、Ｏリング１１５ｃ及びストッパ１１５ｄが装着された嵌合部１１１が開口部１０２と被挿入部１０３との間に回動可能に挿入された状態で、Ｕ字状のクリップ１１７を一方のクリップ保持部１０４のクリップ挿入口１０４ａから挿入して他方のクリップ保持部１０５のクリップ係止部１０５ａに先端１１７ａを係止することによって、ストッパ部１１２がクリップ１１７によって係止されてニップル１１０の抜け止めがなされる。このキャップ部１０１に回動可能に嵌合保持されたニップル１１０の配管接続部１１４に燃料チューブ１２０の基端部１２０ａを嵌合して接続する。 A U-shaped clip with the fitting portion 111 fitted with the O-ring 115a, the spacer 115b, the O-ring 115c and the stopper 115d being rotatably inserted between the opening 102 and the inserted portion 103. The stopper portion 112 is locked by the clip 117 by inserting the 117 from the clip insertion port 104a of one clip holding portion 104 and locking the tip 117a to the clip locking portion 105a of the other clip holding portion 105. The nipple 110 is prevented from coming off. The base end portion 120a of the fuel tube 120 is fitted and connected to the pipe connecting portion 114 of the nipple 110 that is rotatably fitted to the cap portion 101.

特許第２９４３７２２号公報Japanese Patent No. 2947722

上記特許文献１によると、燃料タンクの外壁に形成された開口部に嵌合するキャップ部１０１の開口部１０２にニップル１１０の嵌合部１１１を回動可能に嵌挿し、嵌合部１１１の上部に形成したフランジ状のストッパ部１１２をクリップ保持部１０４及び１０５に挿着するクリップ１１７によって係止することでニップル１１０がキャップ部１０１に対して回動自在に保持され、燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブ１２０の基端部１２０ａの延在方向が異なる場合でも、燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブ１２０の基端部１２０の延在方向に追従してニップル１１０が回動してニップル１１０に作用する負荷が軽減される。 According to Patent Document 1, the fitting portion 111 of the nipple 110 is rotatably inserted into the opening portion 102 of the cap portion 101 that fits into the opening portion formed on the outer wall of the fuel tank, and the upper portion of the fitting portion 111 is inserted. The nipple 110 is rotatably held with respect to the cap portion 101 by engaging the flange-shaped stopper portion 112 formed on the cap portion with the clip 117 inserted into the clip holding portions 104 and 105, and the fuel tube 120 for the fuel tank. Even when the extending direction of the base end portion 120a is different, the load applied to the nipple 110 is reduced by rotating the nipple 110 following the extending direction of the base end portion 120 of the fuel tube 120 with respect to the fuel tank. .

しかし、キャップ部１０１上に突出して配置されたニップル１１０のストッパ部１１２をキャップ部１０１から突出する一対のクリップ保持部１０４、１０５に挿着されるクリップ１１７によって係止してニップル１１０を抜け止めする構成であり、キャップ部１０１から突出するニップル１１０の配管接続部１１４の突出量が大きく、また、キャップ部１０１からクリップ保持部１０４、１０５が突出することから、燃料タンク周辺の空間効率の確保が困難になることが懸念される。また、ニップル１１０とフロアパネル等の車体構造部材との間隙が確保できない場合には、例えば車両の後方衝突時に燃料タンクと車体構造部材とが相対変位してニップル１１０が車体構造部材に当接して破損する要因となる。 However, the stopper portion 112 of the nipple 110 that protrudes on the cap portion 101 is locked by the clip 117 inserted into the pair of clip holding portions 104 and 105 that protrudes from the cap portion 101 to prevent the nipple 110 from coming off. Since the protruding amount of the pipe connecting portion 114 of the nipple 110 protruding from the cap portion 101 is large and the clip holding portions 104 and 105 protrude from the cap portion 101, the space efficiency around the fuel tank is ensured. There is concern that it will be difficult. Further, when the gap between the nipple 110 and the vehicle body structural member such as the floor panel cannot be secured, for example, when the vehicle collides rearward, the fuel tank and the vehicle body structural member are relatively displaced so that the nipple 110 contacts the vehicle body structural member. Cause damage.

更に、ニップル装置１００の組み立てにあたり、開口部１０２と被挿入部１０３との間にニップル１１０の嵌合部１１１を挿入した状態で、クリップ１１７を一方のクリップ保持部１０４のクリップ挿入口１０４ａから挿入して他方のクリップ保持部１０５のクリップ係止部１０５ａに係止してニップル１１０を抜け止めする作業は、厄介で多くの作業工数を要する。また、クリップ１１７を要することから、構成部品点数が多くなり、製造コストが増大する。 Further, when assembling the nipple device 100, the clip 117 is inserted from the clip insertion port 104a of one clip holding portion 104 with the fitting portion 111 of the nipple 110 inserted between the opening portion 102 and the insertion portion 103. The operation of locking the nipple 110 by being locked to the clip locking portion 105a of the other clip holding portion 105 is troublesome and requires a lot of work steps. In addition, since the clip 117 is required, the number of components increases and the manufacturing cost increases.

従って、かかる点に鑑みなされた本発明の目的は、ニップルの回動を許容すると共に、ニップル等の突出量を抑制して燃料タンク周辺の空間効率を確保すると共に、簡単な構成で組み立て作業性に優れ製造コストの抑制が得られる燃料タンクのニップル装置を提供することにある。 Accordingly, an object of the present invention made in view of such a point is to allow rotation of the nipple and to suppress the protrusion amount of the nipple and the like to ensure the space efficiency around the fuel tank and to make assembly workability with a simple configuration. An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel tank nipple device which is excellent in manufacturing cost control.

上記目的を達成する請求項１に記載の燃料タンクのニップル装置の発明は、燃料タンクの外壁のニップル装置取付部に取り付けられて貫通する開口部を有するキャップ部及び該開口部に回動可能に嵌合すると共に燃料チューブを接続するニップルとを備える燃料タンクのニップル装置において、上記キャップ部は、燃料タンクの外壁に開口するニップル装置取付部に取り付けられる基部と、該基部からタンク内方に突出して円筒状の軸保持部及び該軸保持部の先端から内方に突出する係止部を備えた開口部が貫通するホルダ部とを備え、上記ニップルは、本体部と、該本体部に上記開口部の中心軸芯方向に沿って延設されて上記軸保持部に回動可能に嵌合する軸部と、該軸部の上記軸保持部内への挿入及び上記中心軸芯回りの回動で上記係止部に係合して上記軸部の抜け方向の変位を規制しかつ上記中心軸芯回りに回動可能に保持する係合部と、上記本体部に上記中心軸芯延在方向と交差する方向に延在して燃料チューブが接続される配管接続部とが一体形成されたニップルと、を備えたことを特徴とする。 The invention of the nipple device for a fuel tank according to claim 1, which achieves the above object, is provided with a cap portion having an opening passing through and attached to a nipple device mounting portion on the outer wall of the fuel tank, and is rotatable to the opening. A nipple device for a fuel tank comprising a nipple for fitting and connecting a fuel tube, wherein the cap portion is a base portion attached to a nipple device attachment portion that opens to an outer wall of the fuel tank, and projects from the base portion toward the inside of the tank. A cylindrical shaft holding portion and a holder portion through which an opening having a locking portion protruding inwardly from the tip of the shaft holding portion passes, and the nipple includes the main body portion and the main body portion with the above-mentioned A shaft portion that extends along the direction of the central axis of the opening and is rotatably fitted to the shaft holding portion, and insertion of the shaft portion into the shaft holding portion and rotation around the central axis. With above locking An engagement portion that restricts displacement of the shaft portion in the removal direction and holds the shaft portion so as to be rotatable about the center axis, and a direction that intersects the direction in which the center axis extends in the main body. And a nipple integrally formed with a pipe connecting portion that extends and is connected to a fuel tube.

これによると、キャップ部が燃料タンクの外壁のニップル装置取付部に取り付けられる基部及び基部からタンク内方に突出して軸保持部及び軸保持部の先端から内方に突出する係止部を備えた開口部が貫通するホルダ部を備え、ニップルが軸部の軸保持部内への挿入及び中心軸芯回りの回動で係止部に係合して軸部の抜け方向の変位を規制しかつ中心軸芯回りに回動可能に保持する係合部を備えることで、ニップルの軸部を開口部の軸保持部に挿入して回動する簡単な組み立て作業により、ニップルがキャップ部に回動自在に保持される。これにより、ニップルの配管接続部に接続される燃料チューブの長さにバラツキがある場合や、仕様等により燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブの基端部の延在する方向が異なる場合でも、燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブの基端部の延在方向に追従してニップルが回動してニップルに作用する負荷が軽減される。更に燃料チューブの基端部の湾曲あるいは折曲等が抑制されて燃料チューブへの負荷が軽減される。 According to this, the cap portion includes a base portion that is attached to the nipple device mounting portion of the outer wall of the fuel tank, and a locking portion that protrudes inward from the base portion and protrudes inward from the tip of the shaft holding portion. The holder includes a holder portion through which the opening penetrates, and the nipple engages with the engaging portion by inserting the shaft portion into the shaft holding portion and rotating around the center axis to restrict displacement in the removal direction of the shaft portion. By having an engaging part that can be pivoted around the axis, the nipple can be pivoted to the cap part by a simple assembling operation that inserts and pivots the shaft part of the nipple into the shaft retaining part of the opening. Retained. As a result, even if the length of the fuel tube connected to the pipe connection portion of the nipple varies or the direction in which the base end portion of the fuel tube extends with respect to the fuel tank varies depending on the specifications, the fuel to the fuel tank The load applied to the nipple is reduced by rotating the nipple following the extending direction of the proximal end portion of the tube. Further, bending or bending of the base end portion of the fuel tube is suppressed, and the load on the fuel tube is reduced.

ニップルに形成した係合部がキャップ部の燃料タンク内に突出するホルダ部の開口部に形成した係止部に係止して、ニップルの抜け方向の変位を規制することから、キャップ部にニップルの抜け止めを規制するクリップ等の抜け止め手段を設ける必要がなくなり、キャップ部から突出するニップルの配管接続部の突出量が抑制され、燃料タンク周辺の空間効率が容易に確保することができる。また、燃料タンクを車体下面に配置した際には、ニップルとフロアパネル等の車体構造部材との間隙が確保でき、例えば車両の後方衝突時に燃料タンクと車体構造部材とが相対変位してもニップルと車体構造部材との当接が回避されてニップル装置の破損が有効的に阻止されて安全性が大幅に向上する。 The engaging part formed on the nipple is locked to the locking part formed on the opening of the holder part protruding into the fuel tank of the cap part, and the displacement of the nipple in the pulling direction is restricted. It is no longer necessary to provide a retaining means such as a clip that restricts retaining of the nipple, and the amount of protrusion of the pipe connection portion of the nipple protruding from the cap portion is suppressed, so that the space efficiency around the fuel tank can be easily ensured. Further, when the fuel tank is arranged on the lower surface of the vehicle body, a gap between the nipple and the vehicle body structural member such as a floor panel can be secured. For example, even when the fuel tank and the vehicle body structural member are relatively displaced at the time of rearward collision of the vehicle, the nipple Contact between the vehicle body structure member and the vehicle body structural member is avoided, and damage to the nipple device is effectively prevented, thereby greatly improving safety.

また、キャップ部及びニップルそれ自体に一体形成した係止部及び係合部の係合によりキャップ部にニップルが係合保持され、キャップ部及びニップルとは別部品のクリップ等の係止手段等が不要になり、構成部品点数の削減及び構成の簡素化が得られると共に、組立作業性の簡略化と相俟って製造コストの低減が得られる。 Further, the nipple is engaged and held in the cap portion by the engagement of the engaging portion and the engaging portion formed integrally with the cap portion and the nipple itself. This eliminates the need for a reduction in the number of components and simplification of the configuration, and in combination with simplification of assembly workability, a reduction in manufacturing cost.

請求項２に記載の発明は、請求項１の燃料タンクのニップル装置において、上記係止部は、上記軸保持部の先端縁に外周が連続する板状で、上記中心軸芯に沿って軸孔及び該軸孔から径方向に凹設された凹状部を有する貫通孔を備え、上記係合部は、上記軸部に延設されて上記軸孔に回動可能に嵌合する係合軸と、上記軸孔から突出した該係合軸の先端外周に突設された上記凹状部内を中心軸芯延在方向に挿通可能な突起部とを備えたことを特徴とする。 According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the fuel tank nipple device according to the first aspect, the locking portion is a plate shape whose outer periphery is continuous with the tip edge of the shaft holding portion, and the shaft extends along the central axis. An engagement shaft having a through hole having a hole and a concave portion recessed in a radial direction from the shaft hole, the engagement portion extending to the shaft portion and rotatably fitted in the shaft hole And a protrusion that can be inserted in the extending direction of the central axis from the inside of the concave portion protruding from the outer periphery of the end of the engagement shaft protruding from the shaft hole.

これによると、係止部が軸保持部の先端縁に外周が連続する板状で、中心軸芯に沿って軸孔及び軸孔から径方向に凹設された凹状部を有する貫通孔を備え、係合部が軸部に延設されて軸孔に回動可能に嵌合する係合軸と、係合軸における軸孔から突出した先端外周に突設された凹状部内を中心軸芯延在方向に挿通可能な突起部とを備える簡単な構成で係止部及び係合部が形成でき、かつニップルの軸部を軸保持部に挿入して係合軸及び突起部を係止部の軸孔及び凹状部を有する貫通孔に挿入して回動する簡単な作業により、キャップ部の開口部にニップルが回動可能に装着できる。 According to this, the locking portion has a plate shape whose outer periphery is continuous with the tip edge of the shaft holding portion, and includes a shaft hole along the central axis and a through hole having a recessed portion radially recessed from the shaft hole. The engaging shaft extends in the shaft portion and is rotatably fitted in the shaft hole, and the center axis extends in the concave portion protruding from the outer periphery of the tip protruding from the shaft hole in the engagement shaft. The locking portion and the engaging portion can be formed with a simple configuration including a protruding portion that can be inserted in the present direction, and the shaft portion of the nipple is inserted into the shaft holding portion, and the engaging shaft and the protruding portion are connected to the locking portion. The nipple can be rotatably mounted on the opening of the cap portion by a simple operation of inserting and rotating the through hole having the shaft hole and the concave portion.

請求項３に記載の発明は、請求項１の燃料タンクのニップル装置において、上記係止部は、上記軸保持部の先端縁に外周が連続する基端側係止面及び先端側係止面を有する板状で、上記中心軸芯に沿って該基端側係止面から先端側係止面に連続する軸孔及び該軸孔から径方向に凹設された凹状部を有する貫通孔を備え、上記係合部は、上記軸部の先端外周縁に外周が連続する平面環状で上記係止部の基端側係止面に摺接可能な係合面と、該係合面の内周縁に外周が連続して上記軸孔に回動可能に嵌合する係合軸と、上記軸孔から突出した該係合軸の先端外周に突設された上記凹状部内を中心軸芯延在方向に挿通可能な突起部とを備えたことを特徴とする。 According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the fuel tank nipple device according to the first aspect, the locking portion includes a proximal-side locking surface and a distal-side locking surface whose outer periphery is continuous with the distal end edge of the shaft holding portion. And a through-hole having a shaft hole extending from the base-side locking surface to the distal-side locking surface along the central axis and a concave portion recessed in the radial direction from the shaft hole. The engaging portion includes a planar annular shape having an outer periphery continuous with the outer peripheral edge of the shaft portion, and an slidable contact surface with the locking surface on the base end side of the locking portion; An engagement shaft that is continuously fitted on the shaft hole so that the outer periphery is continuously connected to the periphery of the shaft, and the central axis extends in the concave portion that protrudes from the outer periphery of the engagement shaft protruding from the shaft hole. And a protrusion that can be inserted in the direction.

これによると、ニップルの軸部を挿入して、突起部と凹状部が対向した状態でニップルを中心軸芯に沿って開口部内に挿入して係合面を係止部の基端側係止面に当接したニップルに抜け方向に位置を規制した状態で、ニップルを中心軸芯回りに回動することで、各係合部が係止部に係止すると共に、係合面と突起部が係止部を挟持嵌合してニップルの抜け方向の変位が規制される。 According to this, the shaft portion of the nipple is inserted, the nipple is inserted into the opening portion along the central axis with the projection portion and the concave portion facing each other, and the engagement surface is locked on the proximal side of the locking portion. While the position of the nipple in contact with the surface is regulated in the removal direction, the nipple is rotated around the center axis so that each engaging portion is locked to the locking portion, and the engaging surface and the protruding portion However, the engaging portion is clamped and fitted to restrict the displacement of the nipple in the pulling direction.

請求項４に記載の発明は、請求項１の燃料タンクのニップル装置において、上記係止部は、上記軸保持部の先端縁に外周が連続する基端側係止面及び先端側係止面を有する板状で、上記中心軸芯に沿って該基端側係止面から先端側係止面に連続する軸孔及び該軸孔から径方向に放射状に凹設された複数の凹状部を有する貫通孔を備え、上記係合部は、上記軸部の先端外周縁に外周が連続する平面環状で上記係止部の基端側係止面に摺接可能な係合面と、該係合面の内周縁に外周が連続して上記軸孔に回動可能に嵌合する係合軸と、上記軸孔から突出した該係合軸の先端外周に放射状に突設されて上記各凹状部内を中心軸芯延在方向に挿通可能な複数の突起部と、を備えたことを特徴とする。 According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the fuel tank nipple device according to the first aspect, the locking portion includes a proximal-side locking surface and a distal-side locking surface whose outer periphery is continuous with a distal end edge of the shaft holding portion. And a plurality of concave portions that are radially recessed from the shaft hole in the radial direction along the central axis. The engaging portion is a planar ring whose outer periphery is continuous with the outer periphery of the distal end of the shaft portion, and can be slidably contacted with the locking surface on the base end side of the locking portion; An engagement shaft that is rotatably fitted in the shaft hole continuously on the inner peripheral edge of the mating surface, and each of the concave shapes projecting radially from the outer periphery of the end of the engagement shaft protruding from the shaft hole. And a plurality of protrusions that can be inserted through the portion in the direction in which the central axis extends.

これによると、ニップルの軸部を挿入して、放射状に各突起部がそれぞれ各凹状部が対向した状態でニップルを中心軸芯に沿って開口部内に挿入して係合面を係止部の基端側係止面に当接した状態で、ニップルを中心軸芯回りに回動することで、各係合部が係止部に係止すると共に、係合面と突起部が係止部を挟持嵌合してニップルの抜け方向の変位が規制される。 According to this, the shaft portion of the nipple is inserted, the nipple is radially inserted into the opening portion along the central axis while the projections are radially opposed to the respective concave portions, and the engagement surface is inserted into the locking portion. By rotating the nipple around the central axis while in contact with the proximal locking surface, each engaging portion is locked to the locking portion, and the engaging surface and the protrusion are locked to the locking portion. And the displacement of the nipple in the pulling direction is restricted.

請求項５に記載の発明は、請求項３または４の燃料タンクのニップル装置において、上記係止部の先端側係止面に、突起部に当接して軸部の回動を規制するストッパを備えたことを特徴とする。 According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the fuel tank nipple device according to the third or fourth aspect of the present invention, a stopper that abuts against the protruding portion and restricts the rotation of the shaft portion is provided on the distal end side locking surface of the locking portion. It is characterized by having.

これによると、ストッパに突起部が当接して軸部の回動が予め設定された位置に規制されてニップルの配管接続部の延在方向が設定でき、キャップ部にニップルを取り付ける作業の簡素化が得られる。 According to this, the protrusion abuts against the stopper, and the rotation of the shaft portion is restricted to a preset position so that the extending direction of the pipe connection portion of the nipple can be set, and the work of attaching the nipple to the cap portion is simplified. Is obtained.

本発明によると、キャップ部が燃料タンクの外壁のニップル装置取付部に取り付けられる基部及び基部からタンク内方に突出して円筒状の軸保持部及び軸保持部の先端から内方に突出する係止部を備えた開口部が貫通するホルダ部を備えニップルの軸部を開口部の軸保持部に挿入して回動する簡単な作業により、キャップ部にニップルが回動自在に取り付けられる。これにより、配管接続部に接続される燃料チューブの基端部の延在方向が異なる場合でも、燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブの基端部の延在方向に追従してニップルが回動してニップルに作用する負荷が軽減される。更に燃料チューブの基端部の湾曲あるいは折曲等が抑制されて燃料チューブへの負荷が軽減される。 According to the present invention, the cap portion is attached to the nipple device attachment portion on the outer wall of the fuel tank, and the latch that protrudes inward from the base portion from the base portion and protrudes inward from the tip end of the cylindrical shaft holding portion. The nipple is rotatably attached to the cap portion by a simple operation of providing a holder portion through which the opening portion provided with the portion passes and inserting and rotating the shaft portion of the nipple into the shaft holding portion of the opening portion. As a result, even if the extending direction of the base end portion of the fuel tube connected to the pipe connecting portion is different, the nipple rotates following the extending direction of the base end portion of the fuel tube with respect to the fuel tank to become a nipple. The acting load is reduced. Further, bending or bending of the base end portion of the fuel tube is suppressed, and the load on the fuel tube is reduced.

ニップルの係合部がキャップ部の燃料タンク内に突出するホルダ部の開口部に形成した係止部に係止すると共に、ニップルの抜け方向の変位を規制することから、キャップ部にニップルの抜け止めを規制するクリップ等の抜け止めを規制する手段を設ける必要がなく、キャップ部から突出するニップルの配管接続部の突出量が抑制され、燃料タンク周辺の空間効率が容易に確保することができる。 The engaging part of the nipple is locked to the locking part formed in the opening of the holder part protruding into the fuel tank of the cap part, and the displacement of the nipple in the pulling direction is restricted, so that the nipple is not pulled into the cap part. There is no need to provide a means for restricting the retaining of a clip or the like that restricts the stop, the amount of protrusion of the pipe connection portion of the nipple that protrudes from the cap portion is suppressed, and the space efficiency around the fuel tank can be easily ensured. .

また、キャップ部及びニップルそれ自体に一体形成した係止部及び係合部の係合によりキャップ部にニップルが係合保持されることから、構成部品点数の削減が得られ、構成の簡素化が得られると共に、組立作業性の簡略化と相俟って製造コストの低減が得られる。 In addition, since the nipple is engaged and held in the cap portion by engaging the engaging portion and the engaging portion integrally formed with the cap portion and the nipple itself, the number of components can be reduced and the configuration can be simplified. In addition, the manufacturing cost can be reduced in combination with simplification of assembly workability.

本発明の一実施の形態における燃料タンクのニップル装置の平面図である。It is a top view of the nipple apparatus of the fuel tank in one embodiment of the present invention. 図１のＩＩ−ＩＩ線断面図である。It is the II-II sectional view taken on the line of FIG. 図１におけるニップル装置の要部分解斜視図である。It is a principal part disassembled perspective view of the nipple apparatus in FIG. 図３におけるＩＶ矢視方向から見た要部斜視図である。It is the principal part perspective view seen from the IV arrow direction in FIG. 従来の燃料タンクのニップル装置の分解斜視図である。It is a disassembled perspective view of the conventional nipple apparatus of a fuel tank. 組み立てられた状態における図５のＶＩ−ＶＩ線断面図である。FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along line VI-VI in FIG. 5 in an assembled state.

以下、本発明の一実施の形態を、燃料タンクが車体後部のフロアパネル下側に配置され、燃料タンク内の蒸発燃料をキャニスタ等に導出する蒸発燃料導出チューブ、燃料ポンプからの燃料をエンジンに供給する燃料供給チューブ、エンジンにおいて余剰となった燃料を燃料タンクに還流する燃料リターンチューブの各基端部が接続されるニップル装置が燃料タンクの外壁の上面部に配設された場合を例に、図１乃至図４を参照して説明する。 Hereinafter, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a fuel tank is disposed below the floor panel at the rear of the vehicle body, an evaporative fuel outlet tube for deriving the evaporated fuel in the fuel tank to a canister, etc., and fuel from the fuel pump to the engine As an example, the nipple device to which each base end portion of the fuel return tube for returning the surplus fuel in the engine to the fuel tank is connected is connected to the upper surface portion of the outer wall of the fuel tank. A description will be given with reference to FIGS.

図１は、燃料タンク１の上面部２に配設されるニップル装置１０の平面図であり、図２は、図１のＩＩ−ＩＩ線断面図である。 FIG. 1 is a plan view of a nipple device 10 disposed on the upper surface portion 2 of the fuel tank 1, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II in FIG.

ニップル装置１０は樹脂製であって、燃料タンク１の外壁２の上面部に開口形成されたニップル装置取付部３に取り付けられるキャップ部１１及びキャップ部１１に装着されて燃料供給チューブ、燃料リターンチューブ、蒸発燃料導出チューブ等の燃料チューブの各基端部が接続されるＬ字状に折曲形成されたニップル５１、５２、３０を有する。 The nipple device 10 is made of resin, and is attached to the cap portion 11 attached to the nipple device attachment portion 3 formed in the upper surface portion of the outer wall 2 of the fuel tank 1 and the fuel supply tube and the fuel return tube. The nipples 51, 52, and 30 are bent in an L shape to which the base ends of the fuel tubes such as the evaporative fuel lead-out tube are connected.

キャップ部１１は、燃料タンク１の外壁２の上面部に形成された開口を有するニップル装置取付部３に外周が嵌合すると共に開口を蓋閉する板状の基部１２を有し、基部１２にコネクタ１３及びニップル５１、５２、３０を装着するニップル取付部１４、１５、１６が形成される。コネクタ１３は燃料タンク１内に配置される燃料ポンプのポンプモータと外部機器とを電気的に接続するために用いられる。なお、コネクタ１３及び燃料ポンプ等は本発明と直接的に関係するものではないので、詳細な説明を省略する。 The cap portion 11 has a plate-like base portion 12 whose outer periphery is fitted to a nipple device mounting portion 3 having an opening formed in the upper surface portion of the outer wall 2 of the fuel tank 1 and whose opening is closed. Nipple attachment portions 14, 15, 16 for mounting the connector 13 and the nipples 51, 52, 30 are formed. The connector 13 is used to electrically connect a pump motor of a fuel pump disposed in the fuel tank 1 and an external device. The connector 13 and the fuel pump are not directly related to the present invention, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

ニップル５１、５２、３０及びニップル取付部１４、１５、１６の構成は実質的に同様の構成であり、ニップル３０及びニップル取付部１６についてのみ説明する。 The configurations of the nipples 51, 52, and 30 and the nipple mounting portions 14, 15, and 16 are substantially the same, and only the nipple 30 and the nipple mounting portion 16 will be described.

ニップル３０を装着するニップル取付部１６を図１のＩＩ−ＩＩ線断面を示す図２及び図３に示す要部分解斜視図を参照して説明する。 A nipple mounting portion 16 for mounting the nipple 30 will be described with reference to an exploded perspective view of a main part shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 showing a cross section taken along line II-II in FIG.

ニップル取付部１６は、基部１２に基端１７ａが一体に接続されて先端１７ｂが燃料タンク１の内に突出すると共に基部１２側から先端１７ｂに亘って、ほぼ上下方向に延在する中心軸芯Ｌに沿って貫通してニップル３０を回動可能に支持する開口部２０を有する筒状のホルダ部１７を備える。 The nipple mounting portion 16 has a base axis 17a integrally connected to the base 12 and a tip 17b protruding into the fuel tank 1 and extending substantially vertically from the base 12 side to the tip 17b. The cylindrical holder part 17 which has the opening part 20 which penetrates along L and supports the nipple 30 so that rotation is possible is provided.

ホルダ部１７に形成される開口部２０は、中心軸芯Ｌに沿って基部１２の上面１２ａに開口する大径環状のフランジ嵌合部２１、このフランジ嵌合部２１の先端側端縁に外周が連続する平面環状のフランジ当接面２２、このフランジ当接面２２の内周縁に基端側が連続してフランジ嵌合部２１より小径で円筒内周面状の本体部保持部２３、この本体部保持部２３の先端側端縁に外周が連続する環状の段部２４、この段部２４の内周縁に基端側が連続する円筒内面状で本体部保持部２３より小径の軸保持部２５が同軸上に連続形成され、軸保持部２５の先端に係止部２６が形成される。 The opening portion 20 formed in the holder portion 17 has a large-diameter annular flange fitting portion 21 that opens on the upper surface 12a of the base portion 12 along the center axis L, and an outer periphery on the front end side edge of the flange fitting portion 21. A planar annular flange contact surface 22 which is continuous, a base end side which is continuous with the inner peripheral edge of the flange contact surface 22 and has a diameter smaller than the flange fitting portion 21 and a cylindrical inner peripheral surface, and the main body An annular step portion 24 whose outer periphery is continuous with the distal end side edge of the portion holding portion 23, and a shaft holding portion 25 having a cylindrical inner surface whose base end side is continuous with the inner peripheral edge of the step portion 24 and having a smaller diameter than the main body holding portion 23. A locking portion 26 is formed at the tip of the shaft holding portion 25.

係止部２６は、軸保持部２５の先端縁に外周が連続する基端側係止面２６ａ及び先端側係止面２６ｂを有する円板状で、その中心軸芯Ｌと同軸上に円筒状の軸孔２７ａ及びこの軸孔２７ａから互いに離反する径方向に延在するＵ字状乃至溝状に凹設された一対の凹状部２７ｂが形成された断面形状で基端側係止面２６ａから先端側係止面２６ｂに貫通する貫通孔２７を有する。更に、図４に図３のＩＶ矢視図を示すように先端側係止面２６ｂから先端方向に突出して後述するニップル３０の回動を規制するストッパ２８が形成される。 The locking portion 26 has a disc shape having a proximal end locking surface 26a and a distal end locking surface 26b whose outer periphery is continuous with the distal end edge of the shaft holding portion 25, and is cylindrical on the same axis as the central axis L thereof. Of the shaft hole 27a and a pair of concave portions 27b formed in a U-shape or groove shape extending radially away from the shaft hole 27a. There is a through hole 27 penetrating the distal end side locking surface 26b. Further, as shown in FIG. 4 as viewed in the direction of arrow IV in FIG. 3, a stopper 28 is formed that protrudes from the distal end side locking surface 26b in the distal direction and restricts the rotation of the nipple 30 described later.

一方、ニップル３０は、本体部保持部２３に回動可能に嵌合可能な円筒状の本体部３１を有し、本体部３１の中央部にフランジ嵌合部２１に嵌合すると共に側面３２ａがフランジ当接面２２に当接可能な環状のフランジ３２が突出形成される。本体部３１の先端側端縁から中心軸芯Ｌの延在方向に段状に縮径する環状のＯリング装着部３３を介して軸部３４が延設される。軸部３４は嵌合軸保持部２５に回動可能に嵌合する円筒状で軸部３４の先端外周縁に外周が連続する平面環状で係止部２６の基端側係止面２６ａに摺接可能な係合面３６が形成される。 On the other hand, the nipple 30 has a cylindrical main body portion 31 that can be rotatably fitted to the main body portion holding portion 23. The nipple 30 is fitted to the flange fitting portion 21 at the center of the main body portion 31 and has a side surface 32 a. An annular flange 32 that can come into contact with the flange contact surface 22 is formed to protrude. A shaft portion 34 is extended from an end edge on the front end side of the main body portion 31 via an annular O-ring mounting portion 33 whose diameter is reduced stepwise in the extending direction of the central axis L. The shaft portion 34 is a cylindrical shape that is fitted to the fitting shaft holding portion 25 so as to be rotatable. An engaging surface 36 that can be contacted is formed.

係合面３６の内周縁に外周が連続して係止部２６の軸孔２７ａに回動可能に嵌合する係合軸３７が連続形成され、係合軸３７の先端外周に係合面３６から係止部２６の厚さより若干大きな離間距離を隔てて各凹状部２７ｂ内を挿通可能な一対の突起部３８が形成される。この係合面３６、係合軸３７、及び突起部３８によって係止部２６に回動可能に係合する係合部３５が形成される。 An engagement shaft 37 is continuously formed on the inner peripheral edge of the engagement surface 36 so as to be rotatably fitted in the shaft hole 27 a of the locking portion 26, and the engagement surface 36 is formed on the outer periphery of the distal end of the engagement shaft 37. A pair of protrusions 38 that can be inserted through the concave portions 27b with a distance slightly larger than the thickness of the locking portion 26 is formed. The engaging surface 35, the engaging shaft 37, and the protruding portion 38 form an engaging portion 35 that is rotatably engaged with the locking portion 26.

また、本体部３１の側部に中心軸芯Ｌの延在方向と交差する方向、例えば直交する方向に延在する円筒状の配管接続部３９が延設され、係合軸３７の先端に開口４０ａを有し嵌合軸３４、本体部３１、配管接続部３９内を貫通して配管接続部３９の先端に開口４０ｂを有する連通路４０が形成される。 Further, a cylindrical pipe connecting portion 39 extending in a direction intersecting with the extending direction of the central axis L, for example, a direction orthogonal to the side portion of the main body portion 31 is extended and opened at the end of the engaging shaft 37. A communication passage 40 having an opening 40 b at the tip of the pipe connection portion 39 is formed through the fitting shaft 34, the main body portion 31, and the pipe connection portion 39.

このように形成されたニップル３０をキャップ部１１のニップル取付部１６に装着する作業について説明する。 An operation of mounting the nipple 30 formed in this way on the nipple mounting portion 16 of the cap portion 11 will be described.

先ず、ニップル３０のＯリング装着部３３にＯリング４１を装着すると共に、軸部３４をその先端に形成される係合軸３７及び突起部３８側からキャップ部１１の開口部２０に中心軸芯Ｌに沿って挿入して軸部３４の先端側を軸保持部２５に嵌挿する。この軸保持部２５に軸部３４の先端側が軸保持部２５に嵌合した状態で中心軸芯Ｌを中心にニップル３０を回動して係合軸３７の先端外周に形成された各突起部３８を係止部２６に形成された貫通孔２７の凹状部２７ｂと中心軸芯Ｌの延在方向で対向させる。 First, the O-ring 41 is mounted on the O-ring mounting portion 33 of the nipple 30, and the shaft portion 34 is connected to the opening 20 of the cap portion 11 from the side of the engagement shaft 37 and the projection portion 38 formed at the tip thereof. The tip end side of the shaft portion 34 is inserted into the shaft holding portion 25 by being inserted along L. Each protrusion formed on the outer periphery of the distal end of the engagement shaft 37 by rotating the nipple 30 about the central axis L in a state where the distal end side of the shaft portion 34 is fitted to the shaft holding portion 25. 38 is opposed to the concave portion 27b of the through hole 27 formed in the locking portion 26 in the extending direction of the central axis L.

この各突起部３８と凹状部２７ｂが対向した状態で、ニップル３０を中心軸芯Ｌに沿って開口部２０内に挿入して係合面３６を係止部２６の基端側係止面２６ａに当接させると共に本体部３１を本体部保持部２５に嵌合し、かつフランジ３２をフランジ嵌合部２１内に嵌合してフランジ３２の側面３２ａをフランジ当接面２２に当接させる。このニップル２０の挿入に伴い係合軸３７の先端外周に形成され各突起部３８が凹状部２７ｂ内を通過して係止部６６の貫通孔２７から突出して先端側係止面２６ｂ側に突出する。 With the projections 38 and the concave portions 27b facing each other, the nipple 30 is inserted into the opening 20 along the center axis L and the engagement surface 36 is inserted into the proximal-side engagement surface 26a of the engagement portion 26. The body portion 31 is fitted into the body portion holding portion 25, and the flange 32 is fitted into the flange fitting portion 21 so that the side surface 32 a of the flange 32 is brought into contact with the flange contact surface 22. Along with the insertion of the nipple 20, each protrusion 38 formed on the outer periphery of the engagement shaft 37 passes through the concave portion 27 b and protrudes from the through hole 27 of the engagement portion 66 to protrude toward the distal end side engagement surface 26 b. To do.

また、この係合面３６と係止部２６の基端側係止面２６ａとの当接及びフランジ３２の側面３２ａとフランジ当接面３２との当接により開口部２０に対するニップル３０の挿入位置、即ちニップル３０の抜け方向に位置が規制されると共に、Ｏリング装着部３３と段部２４とによってＯリングが挟持されて開口部２０とニップル３０との間がシールされる。 Further, the insertion position of the nipple 30 with respect to the opening portion 20 by the contact between the engagement surface 36 and the base end side locking surface 26a of the locking portion 26 and the contact between the side surface 32a of the flange 32 and the flange contact surface 32. That is, the position of the nipple 30 is regulated in the removal direction, and the O-ring is held between the O-ring mounting portion 33 and the step portion 24 to seal between the opening 20 and the nipple 30.

この係合面３６と係止部２６の基端側係止面２６ａとが当接し、フランジ３２の側面３２ａとフランジ当接面３２とが当接して本体部３１が本体部保持部２５内に嵌挿し、軸部３４が軸保持部２５に嵌合すると共に係合軸３６が係止部２６の軸孔２７ａに嵌合したニップル３０の抜け方向に位置が規制され状態で、ニップル３０を中心軸芯Ｌ回りに突起部３８がストッパ２８に当接するまで、例えば略９０°回動する。この突起３８がストッパ２８に当接することで、軸部３４の回動が予め設定された位置に規制されてニップル３０の配管接続部３９の延在方方向が設定できる。 The engaging surface 36 and the base end side locking surface 26 a of the locking portion 26 come into contact with each other, the side surface 32 a of the flange 32 and the flange contact surface 32 come into contact with each other, and the main body portion 31 enters the main body portion holding portion 25. The shaft portion 34 is fitted to the shaft holding portion 25 and the engagement shaft 36 is centered on the nipple 30 in a state where the position of the engagement portion 36 is regulated in the removal direction of the nipple 30 fitted in the shaft hole 27a of the locking portion 26. The protrusion 38 is rotated by, for example, approximately 90 ° around the axis L until the protrusion 38 comes into contact with the stopper 28. When the projection 38 abuts against the stopper 28, the rotation of the shaft portion 34 is restricted to a preset position, and the extending direction of the pipe connecting portion 39 of the nipple 30 can be set.

このニップル３０の回動により係合面３６が係止部２６の基端側係止面２６ａ上を摺接移動すると共に各突起部３８が係止部２６の先端側係止面２６ｂに沿って移動して各係合部２６が係止部２６に係止すると共に、係合面３６と各突起部３８が係止部２６を挟持嵌合してニップル３０の抜け方向の変位を規制する。 By the rotation of the nipple 30, the engaging surface 36 slides on the proximal end side locking surface 26a of the locking portion 26, and each protrusion 38 extends along the distal end side locking surface 26b of the locking portion 26. Each engaging portion 26 is moved and locked to the locking portion 26, and the engaging surface 36 and each protrusion 38 sandwich and engage the locking portion 26 to restrict displacement of the nipple 30 in the removal direction.

また、ニップル３０は、本体部３１、軸部３４、係合軸３６がそれぞれ本体保持部２３、軸保持部２５及び係止部２６の軸孔２７ａに回動可能に軸止されて、突起部３８が係止部２６の先端側係止面２６ａに摺接可能な範囲、即ち凹状部２７ｂとストッパ２８との間で突起部３８が先端側係止面２６ａに摺接移動する回動範囲において中心軸芯Ｌ回りの回動が許容される。このキャップ部１１の開口部２０に回動可能に嵌合保持されたニップル３０の配管接続部３９に燃料チューブ７の基端部７ａを嵌合して接続する。 The nipple 30 has a main body 31, a shaft 34, and an engagement shaft 36 that are pivotally supported in shaft holes 27 a of the main body holding part 23, the shaft holding part 25, and the locking part 26, respectively, In a range in which 38 can slide in contact with the front end side locking surface 26a of the locking portion 26, that is, in a rotation range in which the projection 38 moves in sliding contact with the front end side locking surface 26a between the concave portion 27b and the stopper 28. Rotation around the central axis L is allowed. The base end portion 7a of the fuel tube 7 is fitted and connected to the pipe connecting portion 39 of the nipple 30 that is rotatably fitted and held in the opening portion 20 of the cap portion 11.

従って、ニップル３０を、その軸部３４の先端に設けられた嵌合軸３７側からキャップ部１１の開口部２０に挿入し、係合面３６を係止部２６の基端側係止面２６ａに当接させ、かつフランジ３２の側面３２ａをフランジ当接面２２に当接して挿入位置が規制された状態で、ニップル３０を中心軸芯Ｌの回りに突起部３８がストッパ２８に当接して回動する簡単な組み立て作業により、キャップ部１１にニップル３０を確実に組み付けることができる。 Accordingly, the nipple 30 is inserted into the opening 20 of the cap portion 11 from the side of the fitting shaft 37 provided at the tip of the shaft portion 34, and the engagement surface 36 is connected to the proximal end side locking surface 26 a of the locking portion 26. In the state where the side surface 32a of the flange 32 is brought into contact with the flange contact surface 22 and the insertion position is restricted, the projection 38 is brought into contact with the stopper 28 around the center axis L. The nipple 30 can be reliably assembled to the cap portion 11 by a simple assembling operation that rotates.

このように組み立てられたニップル装置１０によると、燃料タンクの上面部に形成された開口部に嵌合するキャップ部１１の開口部２０に軸部３４が回動可能に装着されてニップル３０がキャップ部１１に回動自在に保持され、ニップル３０の配管接続部３９に接続される燃料チューブ７の長さにバラツキがある場合や、仕様等が異なり燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブ７の基端部７ａの延在方向が異なる場合でも、燃料タンクに対する燃料チューブ７の基端部７ａの延在方向に追従してニップル３０が回動してニップル３０に作用する負荷が軽減され、キャップ部１１に接続されるニップル３０に発生するクリープによる亀裂、いわゆるクリープ亀裂の発生が抑制できる。更に燃料チューブ７の基端部７ａの湾曲あるいは折曲等が抑制されて燃料チューブ７への負荷が軽減される。 According to the nipple device 10 assembled in this manner, the shaft portion 34 is rotatably attached to the opening portion 20 of the cap portion 11 that fits into the opening portion formed on the upper surface portion of the fuel tank, and the nipple 30 is capped. When the length of the fuel tube 7 that is rotatably held by the portion 11 and is connected to the pipe connection portion 39 of the nipple 30 varies, or the specifications differ, the base end portion 7a of the fuel tube 7 with respect to the fuel tank Even when the extending directions are different, the load applied to the nipple 30 by rotating the nipple 30 following the extending direction of the base end portion 7a of the fuel tube 7 with respect to the fuel tank is reduced, and the cap portion 11 is connected. It is possible to suppress the generation of so-called creep cracks due to creep generated in the nipple 30. Further, the bending or bending of the base end portion 7a of the fuel tube 7 is suppressed, and the load on the fuel tube 7 is reduced.

キャップ部１１の燃料タンク内に突出するホルダ部１７に形成した開口部２０に形成した係止部２６に係止すると共に、係合面３６と各突起部３８が係止部２６を挟持嵌合してニップル３０の抜け方向の変位を規制することから、キャップ部１１にニップル３０の抜け止めを規制するクリップ等の抜け止めを規制する手段を設ける必要がなく、キャップ部１１の上面１１ａから突出するニップル３０の配管接続部３９の突出量が抑制され、燃料タンク周辺の空間効率が容易に確保することができる。また、ニップル３０とフロアパネル等の車体構造部材との間隙の確保でき、例えば車両の後方衝突時に燃料タンクと車体構造部材とが相対変位してもニップル３０と車体構造部材との当接が回避されてニップル装置１０の破損が有効的に阻止されて安全性が大幅に向上する。 The cap portion 11 is engaged with the engaging portion 26 formed in the opening portion 20 formed in the holder portion 17 protruding into the fuel tank 17, and the engaging surface 36 and each protruding portion 38 sandwich and engage the engaging portion 26. Since the displacement of the nipple 30 in the removal direction is restricted, it is unnecessary to provide the cap part 11 with a means for restricting the removal of the clip such as a clip that restricts the nipple 30 from coming off, and the cap part 11 protrudes from the upper surface 11a. The projecting amount of the pipe connecting portion 39 of the nipple 30 is suppressed, and the space efficiency around the fuel tank can be easily ensured. Further, a gap between the nipple 30 and a vehicle body structural member such as a floor panel can be secured. For example, contact between the nipple 30 and the vehicle body structural member is avoided even when the fuel tank and the vehicle body structural member are relatively displaced at the time of a rear collision of the vehicle. As a result, breakage of the nipple device 10 is effectively prevented and safety is greatly improved.

また、キャップ部１１及びニップル３０それ自体に一体形成した係止部２６及び係合部３５の係合によりキャップ部１１にニップル３０が係合保持され、キャップ部１１及びニップル３０とは別部品の係止手段等が不要になり、構成部品点数の削減が得られ、構成の簡素化が得られると共に、組立作業性の簡略化と相俟って製造コストの低減が得られる。 In addition, the nipple 30 is engaged and held in the cap portion 11 by the engagement of the engaging portion 26 and the engaging portion 35 formed integrally with the cap portion 11 and the nipple 30 itself, and is a separate part from the cap portion 11 and the nipple 30. The locking means or the like is not required, the number of components can be reduced, the configuration can be simplified, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced in combination with the simplified assembly workability.

なお、本発明は上記実施の形態に限定されることなく、発明の趣旨を逸脱しない範囲で種々変更可能である。例えば上記実施の形態では、ニップル３０の係合軸３７の先端外周に一対の突起部３８を放射状に形成し、係止部２６に一対の凹状部２７ｂを備えた貫通孔２７を形成して構成したが、係合軸３７の先端外周に一個あるいは３個以上複数の突起部３８を配置し、係合部２６の貫通孔２７の凹状部２７ｂを突起部３８の数に合わせて１個あるいは３個以上の複数個にすることもできる。 In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, A various change is possible in the range which does not deviate from the meaning of invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the pair of protrusions 38 are formed radially on the outer periphery of the tip of the engagement shaft 37 of the nipple 30, and the through hole 27 having the pair of concave portions 27 b is formed in the locking portion 26. However, one or three or more projecting portions 38 are arranged on the outer periphery of the distal end of the engaging shaft 37, and the concave portions 27 b of the through holes 27 of the engaging portion 26 are one or three according to the number of the projecting portions 38. It can also be more than one.

また、組み付けにあたりニップル３０の回動に伴って突起部３０が摺接する係止部２６の先端側係止面２６ａの凹状部２７ｂとストッパ２８との範囲を凹状部２７ｂからストッパ２８側に移行するに従って次第にＯリング４１が装着される段部２４から離反するように緩やかに傾斜させることで、ニップル３０の回動に伴ってニップル３０のＯリング装着部３３を段部２４側に移動させることで、段部２４とＯリング装着部３３によりＯリング４１に締め付け力を付与することもできる。また、係止部２６の先端側係止面２６ａの凹状部２７ｂとストッパ２８との範囲に凹部を形成して、突起部３０の移動を容易にすることでニップル３０の回動を容易にすることもできる。 Further, when the nipple 30 is rotated during assembly, the range of the concave portion 27b and the stopper 28 on the distal end side locking surface 26a of the locking portion 26 with which the protruding portion 30 comes into sliding contact is shifted from the concave portion 27b to the stopper 28 side. Accordingly, the O-ring mounting portion 33 of the nipple 30 is moved to the step portion 24 side as the nipple 30 is rotated by being gently inclined so as to be separated from the step portion 24 to which the O-ring 41 is mounted. The tightening force can also be applied to the O-ring 41 by the step portion 24 and the O-ring mounting portion 33. Further, a concave portion is formed in the range of the concave portion 27b and the stopper 28 on the distal end side locking surface 26a of the locking portion 26 to facilitate the movement of the protruding portion 30, thereby facilitating the rotation of the nipple 30. You can also.

１燃料タンク
２外壁
３ニップル装置取付部
７燃料チューブ
７ａ基端部
１０ニップル装置
１１キャップ部
１２基部
１４、１５、１６ニップル取付部
１７ホルダ部
１７ａ基端
１７ｂ先端
２０開口部
２１フランジ嵌合部
２２フランジ当接面
２３本体部保持部
２５軸保持部
２６係止部
２６ａ基端側係止面
２６ｂ先端側係止面
２７貫通孔
２７ａ軸孔
２７ｂ凹状部
２８ストッパ
３０、５１、５２ニップル
３１本体部
３２フランジ
３４軸部
３５係合部
３６係合面
３７係合軸
３８突起部
３９配管接続部
４０連通路
４１Ｏリング DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Fuel tank 2 Outer wall 3 Nipple apparatus attachment part 7 Fuel tube 7a Base end part 10 Nipple apparatus 11 Cap part 12 Base part 14, 15, 16 Nipple attachment part 17 Holder part 17a Base end 17b Tip 20 Opening part 21 Flange fitting part 22 Flange contact surface 23 Body holding portion 25 Shaft holding portion 26 Locking portion 26a Base end side locking surface 26b Tip side locking surface 27 Through hole 27a Shaft hole 27b Concave portion 28 Stopper 30, 51, 52 Nipple 31 Body portion 32 Flange 34 Shaft part 35 Engagement part 36 Engagement surface 37 Engagement axis 38 Projection part 39 Pipe connection part 40 Communication path 41 O-ring

Claims

燃料タンクの外壁のニップル装置取付部に取り付けられて貫通する開口部を有するキャップ部及び該開口部に回動可能に嵌合すると共に燃料チューブを接続するニップルとを備える燃料タンクのニップル装置において、
上記キャップ部は、
燃料タンクの外壁に開口するニップル装置取付部に取り付けられる基部と、
該基部からタンク内方に突出して円筒状の軸保持部及び該軸保持部の先端から内方に突出する係止部を備えた開口部が貫通するホルダ部とを備え、
上記ニップルは、
本体部と、
該本体部に上記開口部の中心軸芯方向に沿って延設されて上記軸保持部に回動可能に嵌合する軸部と、
該軸部の上記軸保持部内への挿入及び上記中心軸芯回りの回動で上記係止部に係合して上記軸部の抜け方向の変位を規制しかつ上記中心軸芯回りに回動可能に保持する係合部と、
上記本体部に上記中心軸芯延在方向と交差する方向に延在して燃料チューブが接続される配管接続部とが一体形成されたニップルと、
を備えたことを特徴とする燃料タンクのニップル装置。 In a nipple device for a fuel tank, comprising a cap portion having an opening that is attached to and penetrates a nipple device attachment portion on an outer wall of the fuel tank, and a nipple that rotatably fits in the opening and connects a fuel tube.
The cap part is
A base attached to a nipple device attachment that opens to the outer wall of the fuel tank;
A cylindrical shaft holding portion that protrudes inward from the base portion and a holder portion through which an opening including a locking portion that protrudes inward from the tip of the shaft holding portion passes,
The nipple is
The main body,
A shaft portion extending along the central axis direction of the opening to the main body portion and fitted to the shaft holding portion in a rotatable manner;
The shaft portion is inserted into the shaft holding portion and rotated around the central axis to engage the locking portion to restrict displacement in the removal direction of the shaft and rotate about the central axis. An engaging part for holding
A nipple integrally formed with a pipe connection portion that extends in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the central axis extends and is connected to the fuel tube.
A nipple device for a fuel tank, comprising:

上記係止部は、
上記軸保持部の先端縁に外周が連続する板状で、上記中心軸芯に沿って軸孔及び該軸孔から径方向に凹設された凹状部を有する貫通孔を備え、
上記係合部は、
上記軸部に延設されて上記軸孔に回動可能に嵌合する係合軸と、
上記軸孔から突出した該係合軸の先端外周に突設された上記凹状部内を中心軸芯延在方向に挿通可能な突起部と、
を備えたことを特徴とする請求項１に記載の燃料タンクのニップル装置。 The locking part is
A plate-like outer periphery is continuous with the tip edge of the shaft holding portion, and includes a through hole having a shaft hole along the center axis and a recessed portion recessed in the radial direction from the shaft hole,
The engaging portion is
An engagement shaft extending to the shaft portion and rotatably fitted in the shaft hole;
A protrusion that can be inserted in the extending direction of the central axis through the concave portion protruding from the outer periphery of the end of the engagement shaft protruding from the shaft hole;
The nipple device for a fuel tank according to claim 1, comprising:

上記係止部は、
上記軸保持部の先端縁に外周が連続する基端側係止面及び先端側係止面を有する板状で、上記中心軸芯に沿って該基端側係止面から先端側係止面に連続する軸孔及び該軸孔から径方向に凹設された凹状部を有する貫通孔を備え、
上記係合部は、
上記軸部の先端外周縁に外周が連続する平面環状で上記係止部の基端側係止面に摺接可能な係合面と、
該係合面の内周縁に外周が連続して上記軸孔に回動可能に嵌合する係合軸と、
上記軸孔から突出した該係合軸の先端外周に突設された上記凹状部内を中心軸芯延在方向に挿通可能な突起部と、
を備えたことを特徴とする請求項１に記載の燃料タンクのニップル装置。 The locking part is
A plate-like shape having a proximal end side locking surface and a distal side locking surface whose outer periphery is continuous with the distal end edge of the shaft holding portion, and extending from the proximal side locking surface to the distal side locking surface along the central axis. A through hole having a continuous axial hole and a concave portion recessed radially from the axial hole,
The engaging portion is
An engagement surface that is slidably in contact with the proximal-side engagement surface of the engagement portion in a planar ring shape whose outer periphery is continuous with the outer peripheral edge of the shaft portion;
An engagement shaft that is continuously engaged with the inner peripheral edge of the engagement surface so as to be rotatable in the shaft hole;
A protrusion that can be inserted in the extending direction of the central axis through the concave portion protruding from the outer periphery of the end of the engagement shaft protruding from the shaft hole;
The nipple device for a fuel tank according to claim 1, comprising:

上記係止部は、
上記軸保持部の先端縁に外周が連続する基端側係止面及び先端側係止面を有する板状で、上記中心軸芯に沿って該基端側係止面から先端側係止面に連続する軸孔及び該軸孔から径方向に放射状に凹設された複数の凹状部を有する貫通孔を備え、
上記係合部は、
上記軸部の先端外周縁に外周が連続する平面環状で上記係止部の基端側係止面に摺接可能な係合面と、
該係合面の内周縁に外周が連続して上記軸孔に回動可能に嵌合する係合軸と、
上記軸孔から突出した該係合軸の先端外周に放射状に突設されて上記各凹状部内を中心軸芯延在方向に挿通可能な複数の突起部と、
を備えたことを特徴とする請求項１に記載の燃料タンクのニップル装置。 The locking part is
A plate-like shape having a proximal end side locking surface and a distal side locking surface whose outer periphery is continuous with the distal end edge of the shaft holding portion, and extending from the proximal side locking surface to the distal side locking surface along the central axis. And a through hole having a plurality of concave portions radially recessed from the shaft hole in a radial direction,
The engaging portion is
An engagement surface that is slidably in contact with the proximal-side engagement surface of the engagement portion in a planar ring shape whose outer periphery is continuous with the outer peripheral edge of the shaft portion;
An engagement shaft that is continuously engaged with the inner peripheral edge of the engagement surface so as to be rotatable in the shaft hole;
A plurality of protrusions that project radially from the outer periphery of the end of the engagement shaft protruding from the shaft hole and can be inserted through the concave portions in the direction in which the central axis extends.
The nipple device for a fuel tank according to claim 1, comprising:

上記係止部の先端側係止面に、突起部に当接して軸部の回動を規制するストッパを備えたことを特徴とする請求項３または４に記載の燃料タンクのニップル装置。 The nipple device for a fuel tank according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising a stopper on the front-end-side engaging surface of the engaging portion, the stopper being in contact with the protruding portion and restricting the rotation of the shaft portion.