WO2022019238A1 - Snap-fit engagement connector - Google Patents
Snap-fit engagement connector Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2022019238A1 WO2022019238A1 PCT/JP2021/026848 JP2021026848W WO2022019238A1 WO 2022019238 A1 WO2022019238 A1 WO 2022019238A1 JP 2021026848 W JP2021026848 W JP 2021026848W WO 2022019238 A1 WO2022019238 A1 WO 2022019238A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- main body
- connector main
- pipe
- connector
- claw
- Prior art date
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
- F16L37/088—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of a split elastic ring
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/12—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members using hooks, pawls or other movable or insertable locking members
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a snap-fit engagement connector that engages a pipe with a snap-fit.
- Patent Document 1 when the inner diameter of a clip is expanded with a knob and the clip is fitted into the clip fitting portion of the body (connector body portion), the pipe body (pipe) inserted inside the body is retracted and bumped.
- a connector having a configuration in which a tube body is prevented from coming off with respect to a body by locking a portion (spool portion) with a locking claw of a clip is disclosed.
- the locking claws of the clips extend from the outer surface side of the body toward the inside of the body.
- Patent Document 1 when pressure is applied to the inside of the pipe and the pipe moves in the direction of exiting from the inside of the connector main body, the locking claw is bent by the spool portion and is engaged with the outer surface side of the connector main body. There is a risk that the pipe will come out from the inside of the connector body due to the raised claws. In particular, in applications such as car air conditioners where the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe is high, there is a high possibility that the pipe will come out from the inside of the connector main body.
- An object of the present invention is to provide a snap-fit engaging connector capable of suppressing the pipe from coming out from the inside of the connector main body.
- the present invention engages a connector main body having an opening into which a pipe is inserted and an internal space communicating with the opening, and a spool portion which is an annular convex portion provided on the outer periphery of the end of the pipe.
- This has a retainer for fixing the pipe inserted inside the connector main body, and the retainer is arranged on the opening side of the connector main body to provide a hole communicating with the opening.
- the connector main body has a claw portion extending toward the connector and penetrating a through hole formed in a side portion of the connector main body portion, and the tip portion of the claw portion has the pipe inserted inside the connector main body portion.
- the connector main body is in contact with the spool portion from the opening side, and the claw portion is provided with a bent portion that is convex toward the opening side of the connector main body portion. Is formed so as to be bent to the opening side of the connector main body and then folded back to the side opposite to the opening side of the connector main body, and the apex of the bent portion is the inside. It is characterized in that it is located on the inner side of the connector main body portion rather than the side surface of the space.
- the apex of the bent portion provided on the claw portion of the retainer is located on the inner side of the connector main body portion rather than the side surface of the internal space of the connector main body portion. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the inside of the pipe and the pipe moves in the direction of exiting from the inside of the connector main body, the spool portion of the pipe pushes the claw portion toward the opening side of the connector main body, and the side surface of the internal space and the outer circumference of the pipe are pushed. The bent part bites into the surface. As a result, it is suppressed that the claw portion is lifted on the outer surface side of the connector main body portion.
- the leg portion of the retainer is pulled to the side opposite to the opening side of the connector main body portion, and the ring portion of the retainer comes into contact with the connector main body portion. After the ring portion comes into contact with the connector main body portion, the tensile load applied to the leg portion increases as the biting amount of the bent portion increases.
- the tensile strength of the legs suppresses the movement of the pipe in the direction of coming out of the inside of the connector body. In the conventional locking claw, the movement of the pipe is suppressed by the bending strength of the locking claw.
- the movement of the pipe cannot be sufficiently suppressed, the locking claws bend, and the locking claws rise on the outer surface side of the connector body. There was a risk that the pipe would come out from the inside of the connector body.
- the tensile strength of the resin or metal is higher than the bending strength. Therefore, by suppressing the movement of the pipe by the tensile strength of the legs, the movement of the pipe can be suitably suppressed even in applications such as car air conditioners where the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe is high. As a result, it is possible to prevent the pipe from coming out from the inside of the connector main body.
- the connector (snap-fit engagement connector) in the present embodiment is, for example, a joint used for connecting a refrigerant pipe of a car air conditioner.
- the burst strength of the connector is 10 MPa or more.
- the connector 100 is a linear connector.
- the material of the connector 100 is, for example, resin.
- the connector 100 includes a connector main body portion 1 as a female joint portion into which the pipe 50 is inserted, and a male joint portion 2.
- the connector main body 1 has an opening 11 into which the pipe 50 is inserted and an internal space 12 communicating with the opening 11.
- the connector main body 1 has a cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.
- the male joint portion 2 is provided coaxially with the connector main body portion 1 and has a flow path 21 communicating with the internal space 12 of the connector main body portion 1.
- a hose (not shown) is connected to the male joint portion 2.
- the portion of the male joint portion 2 to which the hose is connected is cylindrical.
- the connector main body 1 is an integrally molded product, and is integrally molded by, for example, injection molding.
- injection molding the same applies to the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2, and the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 are integrally molded, for example, by injection molding.
- the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 are integrally molded, but the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 do not need to be integrally molded.
- the connector main body 1 and the male joint portion 2 may be separately molded and joined.
- the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 are coaxially arranged, but the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 may be orthogonal to each other. Further, the connector main body portion 1 and the male joint portion 2 may intersect with each other. That is, the connector 100 may be an L-shaped connector.
- the "L-shape" here includes not only those having a right angle between the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 at 90 degrees, but also those having various angles such as 30 degrees, 45 degrees, and 60 degrees. included.
- the pipe 50 is a pipe (pipe) through which a refrigerant flows.
- the material of the pipe 50 is, for example, a metal such as an aluminum alloy.
- a spool portion 51 which is an annular convex portion, is provided on the outer periphery of the end portion of the pipe 50.
- a recess 52 is provided in a part of the outer periphery of the tip of the pipe 50.
- the connector 100 has a retainer 3.
- the retainer 3 fixes the pipe 50 inserted inside the connector main body 1.
- the pipe 50 is fixed (locked) to the connector main body 1 by engaging the spool portion 51 provided on the pipe 50 with the retainer 3.
- the material of the retainer 3 is, for example, a resin.
- the spool portion 51 and the retainer 3 are engaged by a snap fit.
- Snap-fit is the use of the elasticity of a material to fit one into the other. Specifically, as the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body 1, the claw portion 33 described later of the retainer 3 is pushed by the spool portion 51 to the outer peripheral surface (outer surface) side of the connector main body 1. Elastically deforms toward. When the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the back of the connector main body 1 and the spool portion 51 passes through the claw portion 33, the claw portion 33 returns to the original position. As a result, the spool portion 51 and the retainer 3 are engaged with each other.
- FIG. 4 which is a perspective view of the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2
- a first through hole (through hole) 13 is formed on the side of the connector main body 1.
- four first through holes 13 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the connector main body 1.
- a claw portion 33, which will be described later, of the retainer 3 is fitted into the first through hole 13.
- a convex portion 14 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1.
- four convex portions 14 are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the connector main body portion 1.
- the convex portion 14 is arranged in the vicinity of the first through hole 13. In the radial direction of the pipe 50 (the radial direction of the connector main body 1), the height of the convex portion 14 is higher than the height of the spool portion 51.
- a second through hole 15 is formed on the side portion of the connector main body portion 1.
- four second through holes 15 are also formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the connector main body 1.
- the second through hole 15 is formed on the side (back side) opposite to the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1 with respect to the first through hole 13. Further, the second through hole 15 is formed at a position where the spool portion 51 faces each other when the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the connector main body portion 1.
- the second through hole 15 communicates with the first through hole 13, but it does not have to communicate with the first through hole 13.
- the retainer 3 has a ring portion 31, a leg portion 32, and a claw portion 33.
- the ring portion 31 is arranged on the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1.
- the ring portion 31 has a hole portion 31a communicating with the opening 11.
- the leg portion 32 extends from the ring portion 31 to the side (back side) opposite to the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1.
- four leg portions 32 are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the ring portion 31.
- the leg portion 32 has a flat plate shape. That is, the leg portion 32 is not curved in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 (the circumferential direction of the ring portion 31). Therefore, the leg portion 32 can be suitably warped in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection portion between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum.
- the central portion of the leg portion 32 is made thinner than both end portions of the leg portion 32.
- the width of the leg portion 32 in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 is gradually reduced from the end portion of the leg portion 32 toward the center portion. Therefore, the entire leg portion 32 can be easily bent in the direction away from the connector main body portion 1.
- the claw portion 33 extends from the end of the leg portion 32 opposite to the ring portion 31 toward the inside of the connector main body portion 1. That is, four claw portions 33 are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the ring portion 31.
- the number of the leg portion 32 and the claw portion 33 includes not only four but also one, two, or three. As shown in FIG. 2, the claw portion 33 penetrates the first through hole 13 formed in the side portion of the connector main body portion 1.
- the tip portion of the claw portion 33 comes into contact with the spool portion 51 from the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1 when the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the connector main body portion 1.
- the claw portion 33 is provided with a bent portion 33a.
- the bent portion 33a is convex toward the opening 11 of the connector main body 1.
- the bent portion 33a is formed so as to be bent toward the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1 and then folded back to the side opposite to the opening 11 side (back side) of the connector main body 1.
- the bent portion 33a is provided over the entire length of the claw portion 33. That is, after the bent portion 33a is bent from the end portion of the leg portion 32 opposite to the ring portion 31 toward the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1, the portion including the tip portion of the claw portion 33 is the connector main body. It is formed in a shape that looks like it is folded back on the back side of the portion 1. Therefore, everything from the connection portion between the leg portion 32 and the claw portion 33 to the tip portion of the claw portion 33 is the bent portion 33a.
- the portion from the apex to the end of the leg portion 32 and the portion from the apex to the tip of the claw portion 33 are linear, respectively, and the angle formed by these two portions is , 100 degrees or less, preferably 90 degrees or less. In this embodiment, the angle between these two parts is 90 degrees. As a result, it is possible to suppress the deformation of the claw portion 33 and increase the force for holding the pipe 50.
- the apex of the bent portion 33a is located on the inner side of the connector main body portion 1 with respect to the side surface of the internal space 12.
- the width of the first through hole 13 is wider than the width of the claw portion 33 in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50.
- the claw portion 33 can move (rotate) in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 inside the first through hole 13.
- the convex portion 14 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1.
- the claw portion 33 moves (rotates) in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50, the leg portion 32 rides on the convex portion 14.
- a part of the inner side surface of the connector main body 1 that is deeper than the internal space 12 in the insertion direction of the pipe 50 (the side surface near the male joint portion 2) is convex.
- a portion 16 is provided.
- the convex portion 16 corresponds to the concave portion 52 of the pipe 50. Therefore, unless the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16 and the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body portion 1, the pipe 50 cannot be completely inserted to the depth of the connector main body portion 1. As a result, the pipe 50 cannot be fixed by the retainer 3.
- the connector 100 has a checker 4.
- the checker 4 checks whether or not the pipe 50 is completely inserted inside the connector main body 1.
- FIG. 6, which is a perspective view of the checker 4 the checker 4 has a fitting portion 41, a pulling portion 42, and a connecting portion 43.
- the material of the checker 4 is, for example, resin.
- the fitting portion 41 is a semi-annular shape along the outer shape of the connector main body portion 1 and is fitted to the outer periphery of the connector main body portion 1.
- the fitting portion 41 has first protrusions 44 protruding inward at both ends.
- the first protrusion 44 is fitted into the second through hole 15 (see FIG. 4), respectively.
- the first protrusion 44 is formed with a taper, respectively. This taper makes it easier for the spool portion 51 to move from the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1 toward the back side.
- the distance between the tips of the first protrusion 44 is shorter than the outer diameter of the spool portion 51. Therefore, when the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the connector main body 1, the spool portion 51 elastically deforms the fitting portion 41 by increasing the distance between the tips of the first protrusions 44.
- a second protrusion 45 projecting to the back side of the connector main body 1 is provided at the center of the fitting portion 41.
- the second protrusion 45 abuts on the outer periphery of the connector main body 1.
- the second protrusion 45 interferes with the claw portion 33 of the retainer 3. , Prevents the fitting portion 41 from fitting on the outer periphery of the connector main body portion 1. Therefore, the fitting portion 41 can be fitted to the outer periphery of the connector main body portion 1 only in the correct direction with the second protrusion 45 on the back side.
- the tension portion 42 has a ring shape and can be hung with a worker's finger.
- the tension portion 42 and the fitting portion 41 are connected by a connecting portion 43.
- the fitting portion 41 is elastically deformed. Therefore, the checker 4 can be easily removed from the connector main body 1 by pulling the pulling portion 42 with a finger. can.
- the two O-rings 5 and the two backup rings 6 are inserted into the connector main body 1 through the opening 11.
- the number of O-rings 5 and backup rings 6 is not limited to two.
- the retainer 3 is attached to the outer periphery of the connector main body 1 from the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1. Specifically, the claw portion 33 that is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1 is moved to the first through hole 13 and fitted into the first through hole 13.
- the leg portion 32 when the leg portion 32 is curved in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50, it is easy to bend the leg portion 32 in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection point between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum. is not it.
- the leg portion 32 when the leg portion 32 has a flat plate shape, the leg portion 32 can be suitably warped in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection portion between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum. Therefore, when attaching the retainer 3 to the connector main body 1, the work of moving the claw portion 33 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body 1 to the first through hole 13 and fitting it into the first through hole 13 is performed by the connector. This can be done while bending the leg portion 32 in a direction away from the main body portion 1. As a result, the connector 100 can be easily assembled.
- the central portion of the leg portion 32 is made thinner than both end portions of the leg portion 32.
- the entire leg portion 32 can be easily bent in the direction away from the connector main body portion 1. Therefore, when attaching the retainer 3 to the connector main body 1, the work of moving the claw portion 33 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body 1 to the first through hole 13 and fitting it into the first through hole 13 is performed as a ring. This can be done while bending the leg portion 32 with the connection point between the portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum and bending the entire leg portion 32. This makes it easier to assemble the connector 100.
- the pipe 50 is inserted inside the connector main body 1.
- the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body 1 so that the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16. Therefore, the orientation of the connector main body 1 with respect to the pipe 50 in the circumferential direction is determined.
- the claw portion 33 is pushed by the spool portion 51 and elastically deforms toward the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body 1.
- the claw portion 33 returns to the original position. As a result, the pipe 50 is fixed to the connector main body 1.
- the connector main body portion 1 cannot be rotated with respect to the pipe 50. This makes it possible to prevent the connector main body 1 from rotating with respect to the pipe 50. As a result, the position of the hose connected to the male joint portion 2 can be prevented from changing with the rotation of the connector main body portion 1, so that the hose can be prevented from coming into contact with the engine or the like. ..
- the fitting portion 41 of the checker 4 is elastically deformed. In this state, the checker 4 can be easily removed from the connector main body 1 by pulling the pulling portion 42 of the checker 4 with an operator's finger. On the other hand, if the pipe 50 is not completely inserted to the depth of the connector main body 1, the fitting portion 41 is not sufficiently elastically deformed, and the checker 4 cannot be easily removed from the connector main body 1.
- the leg portion 32 of the retainer 3 is pulled to the side opposite to the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1, and the ring portion 31 of the retainer 3 comes into contact with the connector main body portion 1.
- the tensile load applied to the leg portion 32 increases as the biting amount of the bent portion 33a increases.
- the tensile strength of the leg portion 32 suppresses the movement of the pipe 50 in the direction of coming out of the inside of the connector main body portion 1.
- the tensile strength of resin or metal is higher than the bending strength. Therefore, by suppressing the movement of the pipe 50 by the tensile strength of the leg portion 32, the movement of the pipe 50 can be suitably suppressed even in an application such as a car air conditioner in which the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe 50 is high. As a result, it is possible to prevent the pipe 50 from coming out from the inside of the connector main body 1.
- the bent portion 33a is provided over the entire length of the claw portion 33. Therefore, for example, the number of bent portions can be reduced as compared with the case where the bent portion 33a is provided only in the central portion of the claw portion 33. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the claw portion 33 from being broken due to stress applied to the bent portion.
- the apex of the bent portion 33a provided on the claw portion 33 of the retainer 3 is the connector main body portion 1 rather than the side surface of the internal space 12 of the connector main body portion 1. It is located on the inner side of. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the inside of the pipe 50 and the pipe 50 moves in the direction of exiting from the inside of the connector main body 1, the claw portion 33 is pushed toward the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1 by the spool portion 51 of the pipe 50. The bent portion 33a bites between the side surface of the internal space 12 and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 50. As a result, it is possible to prevent the claw portion 33 from floating on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body portion 1.
- the leg portion 32 of the retainer 3 is pulled to the side opposite to the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1, and the ring portion 31 of the retainer 3 comes into contact with the connector main body portion 1.
- the tensile load applied to the leg portion 32 increases as the biting amount of the bent portion 33a increases.
- the tensile strength of the leg portion 32 suppresses the movement of the pipe 50 in the direction of coming out of the inside of the connector main body portion 1. In the conventional locking claw, the movement of the pipe 50 is suppressed by the bending strength of the locking claw.
- the movement of the pipe 50 cannot be sufficiently suppressed, the locking claws are bent, and the locking claws are formed on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body 1.
- the tensile strength of the resin or metal is higher than the bending strength. Therefore, by suppressing the movement of the pipe 50 by the tensile strength of the leg portion 32, the movement of the pipe 50 can be suitably suppressed even in an application such as a car air conditioner in which the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe 50 is high. As a result, it is possible to prevent the pipe 50 from coming out from the inside of the connector main body 1.
- the bent portion 33a is provided over the entire length of the claw portion 33. Therefore, for example, the number of bent portions can be reduced as compared with the case where the bent portion 33a is provided only in the central portion of the claw portion 33. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the claw portion 33 from being broken due to stress applied to the bent portion.
- the portion from the apex to the end of the leg portion 32 and the portion from the apex to the tip of the claw portion 33 are linear, respectively. As a result, it is possible to suppress the deformation of the claw portion 33 and increase the force for holding the pipe 50.
- the claw portion 33 moves (rotates) in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50
- the leg portion 32 rides on the convex portion 14 provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1.
- the claw portion 33 rises on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body portion 1.
- the tip portion of the claw portion 33 is separated from the spool portion 51. Therefore, by moving (rotating) the claw portion 33 in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 and riding the leg portion 32 on the convex portion 14, the pipe 50 can be pulled out from the inside of the connector main body portion 1.
- the legs 32 have a flat plate shape.
- the leg portion 32 is curved in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50, it is not easy to bend the leg portion 32 in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection point between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum.
- the leg portion 32 has a flat plate shape, the leg portion 32 can be suitably warped in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection portion between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum.
- the connector 100 can be easily assembled.
- the central portion of the leg portion 32 is made thinner than both end portions of the leg portion 32.
- the entire leg portion 32 can be easily bent in the direction away from the connector main body portion 1. Therefore, when attaching the retainer 3 to the connector main body 1, the work of moving the claw portion 33 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body 1 to the first through hole 13 and fitting it into the first through hole 13 is performed as a ring. This can be done while bending the leg portion 32 with the connection point between the portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum and bending the entire leg portion 32. This makes it easier to assemble the connector 100.
- a part of the inner side surface of the connector main body 1 that is deeper than the internal space 12 in the insertion direction of the pipe 50 (the side surface near the male joint portion 2) is formed in the recess 52 of the pipe 50.
- the corresponding convex portion 16 is provided. Therefore, the pipe 50 cannot be completely inserted to the depth of the connector main body 1 unless the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16 and the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body 1. As a result, the orientation of the connector main body 1 with respect to the pipe 50 in the circumferential direction is determined. Then, when the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16, the connector main body portion 1 cannot be rotated with respect to the pipe 50.
- this portion may be a flange joint or the like.
- the use of the connector 100 is not limited to the connection of the pipe for a car air conditioner or the like, and may be used for the connection of the pipe for fuel or the connection of the pipe through which compressed air flows.
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- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
Abstract
Provided is a snap-fit engagement connector that can prevent a pipe from pulling out from the interior of the connector body section. When a pipe (50) is inserted into the interior of a connector body section (1), a distal-end portion of a hook part (33) of a retainer (3) makes contact with a spool part (51) from an opening (11) side of the connector body section (1). The hook part (33) is provided with a curved portion (33a) that protrudes toward the opening (11) side of the connector body section (1). The curved section (33a) is formed in a shape that bends toward the opening (11) side of the connector body section (1), and then folds toward the side away from the opening (11) side of the connector body section (1). The apex of the curved section (33a) is positioned closer to the interior of the connector body section (1) than the surface of the connector body section (1) on an internal space (12) side.
Description
本発明は、スナップフィットでパイプに係合するスナップフィット係合コネクタに関する。
The present invention relates to a snap-fit engagement connector that engages a pipe with a snap-fit.
特許文献1には、クリップの内径をつまみで拡開させて、ボディ(コネクタ本体部)のクリップ嵌着部にクリップを嵌めると、ボディの内部に挿入された管体(パイプ)の抜止め突部(スプール部)をクリップの係止爪が係止することで、ボディに対して管体が抜け止めされる構成のコネクタが開示されている。クリップの係止爪は、ボディの外面側からボディの内部に向かって延びている。
In Patent Document 1, when the inner diameter of a clip is expanded with a knob and the clip is fitted into the clip fitting portion of the body (connector body portion), the pipe body (pipe) inserted inside the body is retracted and bumped. A connector having a configuration in which a tube body is prevented from coming off with respect to a body by locking a portion (spool portion) with a locking claw of a clip is disclosed. The locking claws of the clips extend from the outer surface side of the body toward the inside of the body.
しかしながら、特許文献1のものは、パイプの内部に圧力がかかって、コネクタ本体部の内部から抜け出る方向にパイプが動くと、スプール部によって係止爪が折り曲げられ、コネクタ本体部の外面側に係止爪が浮き上がることで、コネクタ本体部の内部からパイプが抜け出る虞がある。特に、カーエアコンなど、パイプの内部にかかる圧力が高い用途では、コネクタ本体部の内部からパイプが抜け出る虞が高くなる。
However, in Patent Document 1, when pressure is applied to the inside of the pipe and the pipe moves in the direction of exiting from the inside of the connector main body, the locking claw is bent by the spool portion and is engaged with the outer surface side of the connector main body. There is a risk that the pipe will come out from the inside of the connector body due to the raised claws. In particular, in applications such as car air conditioners where the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe is high, there is a high possibility that the pipe will come out from the inside of the connector main body.
本発明の目的は、コネクタ本体部の内部からパイプが抜け出るのを抑制することが可能なスナップフィット係合コネクタを提供することである。
An object of the present invention is to provide a snap-fit engaging connector capable of suppressing the pipe from coming out from the inside of the connector main body.
本発明は、パイプが挿入される開口と、前記開口に連通する内部空間とを有するコネクタ本体部と、前記パイプの端部の外周に設けられた環状の凸部であるスプール部と係合することで、前記コネクタ本体部の内部に挿入された前記パイプを固定するリテーナと、を有し、前記リテーナは、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側に配置されて、前記開口に連通する孔部を有するリング部と、前記リング部から、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側とは反対側に延びる脚部と、前記脚部の前記リング部とは反対側の端部から、前記コネクタ本体部の内部に向かって延びて、前記コネクタ本体部の側部に形成された貫通穴を貫通する爪部と、を有し、前記爪部の先端部は、前記コネクタ本体部の内部に前記パイプが挿入された際に、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側から前記スプール部に当接し、前記爪部には、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側に凸となった屈曲部が設けられており、前記屈曲部は、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側に折り曲げられた後に、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側とは反対側に折り返されたような形に形成されており、前記屈曲部の頂点は、前記内部空間の側面よりも前記コネクタ本体部の内部側に位置していることを特徴とする。
The present invention engages a connector main body having an opening into which a pipe is inserted and an internal space communicating with the opening, and a spool portion which is an annular convex portion provided on the outer periphery of the end of the pipe. This has a retainer for fixing the pipe inserted inside the connector main body, and the retainer is arranged on the opening side of the connector main body to provide a hole communicating with the opening. The inside of the connector main body from the ring portion, the leg portion extending from the ring portion to the side opposite to the opening side of the connector main body portion, and the end portion of the leg portion on the side opposite to the ring portion. It has a claw portion extending toward the connector and penetrating a through hole formed in a side portion of the connector main body portion, and the tip portion of the claw portion has the pipe inserted inside the connector main body portion. At that time, the connector main body is in contact with the spool portion from the opening side, and the claw portion is provided with a bent portion that is convex toward the opening side of the connector main body portion. Is formed so as to be bent to the opening side of the connector main body and then folded back to the side opposite to the opening side of the connector main body, and the apex of the bent portion is the inside. It is characterized in that it is located on the inner side of the connector main body portion rather than the side surface of the space.
本発明によれば、リテーナの爪部に設けられた屈曲部の頂点は、コネクタ本体部の内部空間の側面よりもコネクタ本体部の内部側に位置している。よって、パイプの内部に圧力がかかり、コネクタ本体部の内部から抜け出る方向にパイプが動くと、パイプのスプール部によって爪部がコネクタ本体部の開口側に押され、内部空間の側面とパイプの外周面との間に屈曲部が食い込む。その結果、コネクタ本体部の外面側に爪部が浮き上がるのが抑制される。また、リテーナの脚部が、コネクタ本体部の開口側とは反対側に引っ張られ、リテーナのリング部が、コネクタ本体部に当接する。リング部が、コネクタ本体部に当接した後は、屈曲部の食い込み量が増すにつれて、脚部にかかる引張荷重が大きくなる。脚部の引張強度によって、コネクタ本体部の内部から抜け出る方向へのパイプの動きが抑えられる。従来の係止爪では、係止爪の曲げ強度で、パイプの動きを抑えていた。しかし、カーエアコンなど、パイプの内部にかかる圧力が高い用途では、パイプの動きを十分に抑えることができず、係止爪が折れ曲がり、コネクタ本体部の外面側に係止爪が浮き上がることで、コネクタ本体部の内部からパイプが抜け出る虞があった。ここで、一般的に、樹脂や金属の引張強度は、曲げ強度よりも高い。そこで、脚部の引張強度で、パイプの動きを抑えることで、カーエアコンなど、パイプの内部にかかる圧力が高い用途においても、パイプの動きを好適に抑えることができる。これにより、コネクタ本体部の内部からパイプが抜け出るのを抑制することができる。
According to the present invention, the apex of the bent portion provided on the claw portion of the retainer is located on the inner side of the connector main body portion rather than the side surface of the internal space of the connector main body portion. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the inside of the pipe and the pipe moves in the direction of exiting from the inside of the connector main body, the spool portion of the pipe pushes the claw portion toward the opening side of the connector main body, and the side surface of the internal space and the outer circumference of the pipe are pushed. The bent part bites into the surface. As a result, it is suppressed that the claw portion is lifted on the outer surface side of the connector main body portion. Further, the leg portion of the retainer is pulled to the side opposite to the opening side of the connector main body portion, and the ring portion of the retainer comes into contact with the connector main body portion. After the ring portion comes into contact with the connector main body portion, the tensile load applied to the leg portion increases as the biting amount of the bent portion increases. The tensile strength of the legs suppresses the movement of the pipe in the direction of coming out of the inside of the connector body. In the conventional locking claw, the movement of the pipe is suppressed by the bending strength of the locking claw. However, in applications such as car air conditioners where the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe is high, the movement of the pipe cannot be sufficiently suppressed, the locking claws bend, and the locking claws rise on the outer surface side of the connector body. There was a risk that the pipe would come out from the inside of the connector body. Here, in general, the tensile strength of the resin or metal is higher than the bending strength. Therefore, by suppressing the movement of the pipe by the tensile strength of the legs, the movement of the pipe can be suitably suppressed even in applications such as car air conditioners where the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe is high. As a result, it is possible to prevent the pipe from coming out from the inside of the connector main body.
以下、本発明の好適な実施の形態について、図面を参照しつつ説明する。
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(コネクタの構成)
本実施形態におけるコネクタ(スナップフィット係合コネクタ)は、例えば、カーエアコンの冷媒配管の接続に用いられる継手である。用途がカーエアコンの場合、コネクタの破裂強度は10MPa以上である。 (Connector configuration)
The connector (snap-fit engagement connector) in the present embodiment is, for example, a joint used for connecting a refrigerant pipe of a car air conditioner. When the application is a car air conditioner, the burst strength of the connector is 10 MPa or more.
本実施形態におけるコネクタ(スナップフィット係合コネクタ)は、例えば、カーエアコンの冷媒配管の接続に用いられる継手である。用途がカーエアコンの場合、コネクタの破裂強度は10MPa以上である。 (Connector configuration)
The connector (snap-fit engagement connector) in the present embodiment is, for example, a joint used for connecting a refrigerant pipe of a car air conditioner. When the application is a car air conditioner, the burst strength of the connector is 10 MPa or more.
コネクタ100の斜視図である図1、および、コネクタ100の断面図である図2に示すように、コネクタ100は、直線状のコネクタである。コネクタ100の材質は、例えば、樹脂である。コネクタ100は、パイプ50が挿入される雌継手部としてのコネクタ本体部1と、雄継手部2と、を備える。
As shown in FIG. 1 which is a perspective view of the connector 100 and FIG. 2 which is a cross-sectional view of the connector 100, the connector 100 is a linear connector. The material of the connector 100 is, for example, resin. The connector 100 includes a connector main body portion 1 as a female joint portion into which the pipe 50 is inserted, and a male joint portion 2.
コネクタ本体部1は、パイプ50が挿入される開口11と、開口11に連通する内部空間12とを有している。本実施形態において、コネクタ本体部1は、円筒状であるが、これに限定されない。
The connector main body 1 has an opening 11 into which the pipe 50 is inserted and an internal space 12 communicating with the opening 11. In the present embodiment, the connector main body 1 has a cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.
雄継手部2は、コネクタ本体部1と同軸に設けられ、コネクタ本体部1の内部空間12と連通する流路21を有している。雄継手部2には、例えば、ホース(不図示)が接続される。雄継手部2におけるホースが接続される部分は、円筒状である。
The male joint portion 2 is provided coaxially with the connector main body portion 1 and has a flow path 21 communicating with the internal space 12 of the connector main body portion 1. For example, a hose (not shown) is connected to the male joint portion 2. The portion of the male joint portion 2 to which the hose is connected is cylindrical.
コネクタ本体部1は、一体成形品であり、例えば、射出成形により一体成形される。また、コネクタ本体部1および雄継手部2についても同様であり、コネクタ本体部1と雄継手部2とは、例えば、射出成形により一体成形される。なお、本実施形態では、コネクタ本体部1と雄継手部2とが一体成形されているが、コネクタ本体部1と雄継手部2とが一体成形されている必要はなく、例えば、コネクタ本体部1と雄継手部2とが別々に成形されたものを接合してもよい。
The connector main body 1 is an integrally molded product, and is integrally molded by, for example, injection molding. The same applies to the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2, and the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 are integrally molded, for example, by injection molding. In the present embodiment, the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 are integrally molded, but the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 do not need to be integrally molded. For example, the connector main body 1 and the male joint portion 2 may be separately molded and joined.
また、本実施形態では、コネクタ本体部1と雄継手部2とが同軸に並んでいるが、コネクタ本体部1と雄継手部2とが直交していてもよい。また、コネクタ本体部1と雄継手部2とが交差していてもよい。つまり、コネクタ100は、L字形状のコネクタであってもよい。ここでの「L字形状」には、コネクタ本体部1と雄継手部2とがなす角度が90度のものだけでなく、30度や45度や60度など、様々な角度をなすものが含まれる。
Further, in the present embodiment, the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 are coaxially arranged, but the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 may be orthogonal to each other. Further, the connector main body portion 1 and the male joint portion 2 may intersect with each other. That is, the connector 100 may be an L-shaped connector. The "L-shape" here includes not only those having a right angle between the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2 at 90 degrees, but also those having various angles such as 30 degrees, 45 degrees, and 60 degrees. included.
パイプ50の斜視図である図3に示すように、パイプ50は、内部に冷媒が流されるパイプ(管)である。パイプ50の材質は、例えば、アルミニウム合金等の金属である。パイプ50の端部の外周には、環状の凸部であるスプール部51が設けられている。パイプ50の先端部の外周の一部には、凹部52が設けられている。
As shown in FIG. 3, which is a perspective view of the pipe 50, the pipe 50 is a pipe (pipe) through which a refrigerant flows. The material of the pipe 50 is, for example, a metal such as an aluminum alloy. A spool portion 51, which is an annular convex portion, is provided on the outer periphery of the end portion of the pipe 50. A recess 52 is provided in a part of the outer periphery of the tip of the pipe 50.
図1および図2に示すように、コネクタ100は、リテーナ3を有している。リテーナ3は、コネクタ本体部1の内部に挿入されたパイプ50を固定するものである。パイプ50に設けられたスプール部51と、リテーナ3とが係合されることで、パイプ50は、コネクタ本体部1に固定(ロック)される。リテーナ3の材質は、例えば、樹脂である。
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the connector 100 has a retainer 3. The retainer 3 fixes the pipe 50 inserted inside the connector main body 1. The pipe 50 is fixed (locked) to the connector main body 1 by engaging the spool portion 51 provided on the pipe 50 with the retainer 3. The material of the retainer 3 is, for example, a resin.
ここで、スプール部51とリテーナ3とは、スナップフィットにより係合される。スナップフィットとは、材料の弾性を利用して一方を他方に嵌め込むことである。具体的には、コネクタ本体部1の内部にパイプ50が挿入されていくと、リテーナ3の後述する爪部33がスプール部51に押されて、コネクタ本体部1の外周面(外面)側に向かって弾性変形する。コネクタ本体部1の奥にパイプ50が完全に挿入されて、スプール部51が爪部33を通過すると、爪部33が元の位置に戻る。これにより、スプール部51とリテーナ3とが係合される。
Here, the spool portion 51 and the retainer 3 are engaged by a snap fit. Snap-fit is the use of the elasticity of a material to fit one into the other. Specifically, as the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body 1, the claw portion 33 described later of the retainer 3 is pushed by the spool portion 51 to the outer peripheral surface (outer surface) side of the connector main body 1. Elastically deforms toward. When the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the back of the connector main body 1 and the spool portion 51 passes through the claw portion 33, the claw portion 33 returns to the original position. As a result, the spool portion 51 and the retainer 3 are engaged with each other.
コネクタ本体部1および雄継手部2の斜視図である図4に示すように、コネクタ本体部1の側部には、第1貫通穴(貫通穴)13が形成されている。本実施形態では、第1貫通穴13は、コネクタ本体部1の周方向に等間隔で4つ形成されている。この第1貫通穴13に、リテーナ3の後述する爪部33が嵌る。
As shown in FIG. 4, which is a perspective view of the connector main body 1 and the male joint 2, a first through hole (through hole) 13 is formed on the side of the connector main body 1. In the present embodiment, four first through holes 13 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the connector main body 1. A claw portion 33, which will be described later, of the retainer 3 is fitted into the first through hole 13.
また、コネクタ本体部1の外周面には、凸部14が設けられている。本実施形態では、凸部14は、コネクタ本体部1の周方向に等間隔で4つ設けられている。凸部14は、第1貫通穴13の近傍に配置されている。パイプ50の径方向(コネクタ本体部1の径方向)において、凸部14の高さは、スプール部51の高さよりも高い。
Further, a convex portion 14 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1. In the present embodiment, four convex portions 14 are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the connector main body portion 1. The convex portion 14 is arranged in the vicinity of the first through hole 13. In the radial direction of the pipe 50 (the radial direction of the connector main body 1), the height of the convex portion 14 is higher than the height of the spool portion 51.
また、コネクタ本体部1の側部には、第2貫通穴15が形成されている。本実施形態では、第2貫通穴15もまた、コネクタ本体部1の周方向に等間隔で4つ形成されている。第2貫通穴15は、第1貫通穴13に対して、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側とは反対側(奥側)に形成されている。また、第2貫通穴15は、コネクタ本体部1の内部にパイプ50が完全に挿入された際に、スプール部51が対向する位置に形成されている。
Further, a second through hole 15 is formed on the side portion of the connector main body portion 1. In the present embodiment, four second through holes 15 are also formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the connector main body 1. The second through hole 15 is formed on the side (back side) opposite to the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1 with respect to the first through hole 13. Further, the second through hole 15 is formed at a position where the spool portion 51 faces each other when the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the connector main body portion 1.
本実施形態では、第2貫通穴15は第1貫通穴13に連通しているが、連通していなくてもよい。
In the present embodiment, the second through hole 15 communicates with the first through hole 13, but it does not have to communicate with the first through hole 13.
リテーナ3の斜視図である図5に示すように、リテーナ3は、リング部31と、脚部32と、爪部33と、を有している。図1に示すように、リング部31は、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側に配置されている。図5に示すように、リング部31は、開口11に連通する孔部31aを有している。
As shown in FIG. 5, which is a perspective view of the retainer 3, the retainer 3 has a ring portion 31, a leg portion 32, and a claw portion 33. As shown in FIG. 1, the ring portion 31 is arranged on the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1. As shown in FIG. 5, the ring portion 31 has a hole portion 31a communicating with the opening 11.
脚部32は、リング部31から、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側とは反対側(奥側)に延びている。本実施形態では、脚部32は、リング部31の周方向に等間隔で4つ設けられている。
The leg portion 32 extends from the ring portion 31 to the side (back side) opposite to the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1. In the present embodiment, four leg portions 32 are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the ring portion 31.
本実施形態において、脚部32は、平坦な板状である。即ち、脚部32は、パイプ50の周方向(リング部31の周方向)に湾曲していない。そのため、リング部31と脚部32との接続箇所を支点として、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に脚部32を好適に反らせることができる。
In the present embodiment, the leg portion 32 has a flat plate shape. That is, the leg portion 32 is not curved in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 (the circumferential direction of the ring portion 31). Therefore, the leg portion 32 can be suitably warped in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection portion between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum.
また、脚部32の中央部が、脚部32の両端部よりも細くされている。本実施形態では、パイプ50の周方向における脚部32の幅が、脚部32の端部から中央部に向かって漸減されている。そのため、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に脚部32の全体を容易に撓らせることができる。
Further, the central portion of the leg portion 32 is made thinner than both end portions of the leg portion 32. In the present embodiment, the width of the leg portion 32 in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 is gradually reduced from the end portion of the leg portion 32 toward the center portion. Therefore, the entire leg portion 32 can be easily bent in the direction away from the connector main body portion 1.
爪部33は、脚部32のリング部31とは反対側の端部から、コネクタ本体部1の内部に向かって延びている。つまり、爪部33は、リング部31の周方向に等間隔で4つ設けられている。なお、脚部32および爪部33の数には、4つだけでなく、1つや2つや3つなども含まれる。図2に示すように、爪部33は、コネクタ本体部1の側部に形成された第1貫通穴13を貫通している。
The claw portion 33 extends from the end of the leg portion 32 opposite to the ring portion 31 toward the inside of the connector main body portion 1. That is, four claw portions 33 are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the ring portion 31. The number of the leg portion 32 and the claw portion 33 includes not only four but also one, two, or three. As shown in FIG. 2, the claw portion 33 penetrates the first through hole 13 formed in the side portion of the connector main body portion 1.
図2に示すように、爪部33の先端部は、コネクタ本体部1の内部にパイプ50が完全に挿入された際に、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側からスプール部51に当接する。
As shown in FIG. 2, the tip portion of the claw portion 33 comes into contact with the spool portion 51 from the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1 when the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the connector main body portion 1.
図5に示すように、爪部33には、屈曲部33aが設けられている。この屈曲部33aは、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側に凸となっている。屈曲部33aは、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側に折り曲げられた後に、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側とは反対側(奥側)に折り返されたような形に形成されている。
As shown in FIG. 5, the claw portion 33 is provided with a bent portion 33a. The bent portion 33a is convex toward the opening 11 of the connector main body 1. The bent portion 33a is formed so as to be bent toward the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1 and then folded back to the side opposite to the opening 11 side (back side) of the connector main body 1.
本実施形態では、屈曲部33aは、爪部33の全長にわたって設けられている。つまり、屈曲部33aは、脚部32のリング部31とは反対側の端部から、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側に折り曲げられた後に、爪部33の先端部を含む部分が、コネクタ本体部1の奥側に折り返されたような形に形成されている。よって、脚部32と爪部33との接続箇所から爪部33の先端部にかけてのすべてが、屈曲部33aとなっている。
In the present embodiment, the bent portion 33a is provided over the entire length of the claw portion 33. That is, after the bent portion 33a is bent from the end portion of the leg portion 32 opposite to the ring portion 31 toward the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1, the portion including the tip portion of the claw portion 33 is the connector main body. It is formed in a shape that looks like it is folded back on the back side of the portion 1. Therefore, everything from the connection portion between the leg portion 32 and the claw portion 33 to the tip portion of the claw portion 33 is the bent portion 33a.
また、屈曲部33aにおいて、その頂点から脚部32の端部にかけての部分と、その頂点から爪部33の先端部にかけての部分とが、それぞれ直線状であり、これら2つの部分のなす角度は、100度以下、好ましくは90度以下である。本実施形態では、これら2つの部分のなす角度は、90度である。これにより、爪部33の変形を抑制し、パイプ50を保持する力を高めることができる。
Further, in the bent portion 33a, the portion from the apex to the end of the leg portion 32 and the portion from the apex to the tip of the claw portion 33 are linear, respectively, and the angle formed by these two portions is , 100 degrees or less, preferably 90 degrees or less. In this embodiment, the angle between these two parts is 90 degrees. As a result, it is possible to suppress the deformation of the claw portion 33 and increase the force for holding the pipe 50.
図2に示すように、屈曲部33aの頂点は、内部空間12の側面よりもコネクタ本体部1の内部側に位置している。
As shown in FIG. 2, the apex of the bent portion 33a is located on the inner side of the connector main body portion 1 with respect to the side surface of the internal space 12.
図1に示すように、パイプ50の周方向において、第1貫通穴13の幅は、爪部33の幅よりも広くされている。これにより、爪部33は、第1貫通穴13の内部において、パイプ50の周方向に移動(回転)可能になっている。
As shown in FIG. 1, the width of the first through hole 13 is wider than the width of the claw portion 33 in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50. As a result, the claw portion 33 can move (rotate) in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 inside the first through hole 13.
ここで、上述したように、コネクタ本体部1の外周面には、凸部14が設けられている。パイプ50の周方向に爪部33が移動(回転)した際に、この凸部14に脚部32が乗り上げる。
Here, as described above, the convex portion 14 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1. When the claw portion 33 moves (rotates) in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50, the leg portion 32 rides on the convex portion 14.
図2に示すように、コネクタ本体部1の内部の側面であって、パイプ50の挿入方向における内部空間12よりも奥側の側面(雄継手部2付近の側面)の一部には、凸部16が設けられている。この凸部16は、パイプ50の凹部52に対応している。よって、凹部52が凸部16に対向するようにして、パイプ50をコネクタ本体部1の内部に挿入しなければ、コネクタ本体部1の奥までパイプ50を完全に挿入することができず、その結果、リテーナ3でパイプ50を固定することもできない。
As shown in FIG. 2, a part of the inner side surface of the connector main body 1 that is deeper than the internal space 12 in the insertion direction of the pipe 50 (the side surface near the male joint portion 2) is convex. A portion 16 is provided. The convex portion 16 corresponds to the concave portion 52 of the pipe 50. Therefore, unless the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16 and the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body portion 1, the pipe 50 cannot be completely inserted to the depth of the connector main body portion 1. As a result, the pipe 50 cannot be fixed by the retainer 3.
また、図1に示すように、コネクタ100は、チェッカー4を有している。チェッカー4は、コネクタ本体部1の内部にパイプ50が完全に挿入されたか否かをチェックするものである。チェッカー4の斜視図である図6に示すように、チェッカー4は、嵌合部41と、引張部42と、接続部43と、を有している。チェッカー4の材質は、例えば、樹脂である。
Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the connector 100 has a checker 4. The checker 4 checks whether or not the pipe 50 is completely inserted inside the connector main body 1. As shown in FIG. 6, which is a perspective view of the checker 4, the checker 4 has a fitting portion 41, a pulling portion 42, and a connecting portion 43. The material of the checker 4 is, for example, resin.
嵌合部41は、コネクタ本体部1の外形に沿った半環状であり、コネクタ本体部1の外周に嵌められる。嵌合部41は、その内側に突出した第1突起部44を両端部に有している。この第1突起部44は、それぞれ第2貫通穴15(図4参照)に嵌め込まれる。コネクタ本体部1の開口11側において、第1突起部44には、テーパがそれぞれ形成されている。このテーパにより、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側から奥側に向かってスプール部51が移動しやすくなる。
The fitting portion 41 is a semi-annular shape along the outer shape of the connector main body portion 1 and is fitted to the outer periphery of the connector main body portion 1. The fitting portion 41 has first protrusions 44 protruding inward at both ends. The first protrusion 44 is fitted into the second through hole 15 (see FIG. 4), respectively. On the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1, the first protrusion 44 is formed with a taper, respectively. This taper makes it easier for the spool portion 51 to move from the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1 toward the back side.
第1突起部44の先端同士の距離は、スプール部51の外径よりも短い。そのため、コネクタ本体部1の内部にパイプ50が完全に挿入されると、スプール部51によって、第1突起部44の先端同士の距離が広げられることで、嵌合部41が弾性変形する。
The distance between the tips of the first protrusion 44 is shorter than the outer diameter of the spool portion 51. Therefore, when the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the connector main body 1, the spool portion 51 elastically deforms the fitting portion 41 by increasing the distance between the tips of the first protrusions 44.
嵌合部41の中央部には、コネクタ本体部1の奥側に突出した第2突起部45が設けられている。第2突起部45を奥側にして、コネクタ本体部1の外周に嵌合部41が嵌められた際に、第2突起部45は、コネクタ本体部1の外周に当接する。一方、第2突起部45を開口11側にして、コネクタ本体部1の外周に嵌合部41が嵌められようとした際に、第2突起部45は、リテーナ3の爪部33と干渉し、コネクタ本体部1の外周に嵌合部41が嵌るのを阻害する。よって、第2突起部45を奥側にした正しい向きでしか、コネクタ本体部1の外周に嵌合部41を嵌めることができない。
A second protrusion 45 projecting to the back side of the connector main body 1 is provided at the center of the fitting portion 41. When the fitting portion 41 is fitted on the outer periphery of the connector main body 1 with the second protrusion 45 on the back side, the second protrusion 45 abuts on the outer periphery of the connector main body 1. On the other hand, when the fitting portion 41 is about to be fitted to the outer periphery of the connector main body 1 with the second protrusion 45 on the opening 11 side, the second protrusion 45 interferes with the claw portion 33 of the retainer 3. , Prevents the fitting portion 41 from fitting on the outer periphery of the connector main body portion 1. Therefore, the fitting portion 41 can be fitted to the outer periphery of the connector main body portion 1 only in the correct direction with the second protrusion 45 on the back side.
引張部42は、リング状であり、作業者の指を掛けることが可能である。引張部42と嵌合部41とは、接続部43で接続されている。コネクタ本体部1の奥までパイプ50が完全に挿入されると、嵌合部41が弾性変形するので、引張部42を指で引っ張ることで、コネクタ本体部1からチェッカー4を容易に取り外すことができる。
The tension portion 42 has a ring shape and can be hung with a worker's finger. The tension portion 42 and the fitting portion 41 are connected by a connecting portion 43. When the pipe 50 is completely inserted to the back of the connector main body 1, the fitting portion 41 is elastically deformed. Therefore, the checker 4 can be easily removed from the connector main body 1 by pulling the pulling portion 42 with a finger. can.
(コネクタの組立方法)
次に、コネクタ100の組立方法について説明する。 (How to assemble the connector)
Next, a method of assembling theconnector 100 will be described.
次に、コネクタ100の組立方法について説明する。 (How to assemble the connector)
Next, a method of assembling the
まず、図2に示すように、2個のOリング5および2個のバックアップリング6を、開口11からコネクタ本体部1の内部へ挿入する。なお、Oリング5およびバックアップリング6の個数は、2個に限定されない。
First, as shown in FIG. 2, the two O-rings 5 and the two backup rings 6 are inserted into the connector main body 1 through the opening 11. The number of O-rings 5 and backup rings 6 is not limited to two.
次に、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側から、コネクタ本体部1の外周にリテーナ3を取り付ける。具体的には、コネクタ本体部1の外周面に当接させた爪部33を第1貫通穴13まで移動させて第1貫通穴13に嵌める。
Next, the retainer 3 is attached to the outer periphery of the connector main body 1 from the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1. Specifically, the claw portion 33 that is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1 is moved to the first through hole 13 and fitted into the first through hole 13.
ここで、パイプ50の周方向に脚部32が湾曲している場合、リング部31と脚部32との接続箇所を支点として、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に脚部32を反らせるのは容易ではない。これに対して、脚部32が平坦な板状の場合、リング部31と脚部32との接続箇所を支点として、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に脚部32を好適に反らせることができる。よって、コネクタ本体部1にリテーナ3を取り付ける際に、コネクタ本体部1の外周面に当接させた爪部33を第1貫通穴13まで移動させて第1貫通穴13に嵌める作業を、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に脚部32を反らせながら行うことができる。これにより、コネクタ100の組み立てを容易に行うことができる。
Here, when the leg portion 32 is curved in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50, it is easy to bend the leg portion 32 in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection point between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum. is not it. On the other hand, when the leg portion 32 has a flat plate shape, the leg portion 32 can be suitably warped in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection portion between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum. Therefore, when attaching the retainer 3 to the connector main body 1, the work of moving the claw portion 33 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body 1 to the first through hole 13 and fitting it into the first through hole 13 is performed by the connector. This can be done while bending the leg portion 32 in a direction away from the main body portion 1. As a result, the connector 100 can be easily assembled.
また、脚部32の中央部が、脚部32の両端部よりも細くされている。これにより、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に、脚部32の全体を容易に撓らせることができる。よって、コネクタ本体部1にリテーナ3を取り付ける際に、コネクタ本体部1の外周面に当接させた爪部33を第1貫通穴13まで移動させて第1貫通穴13に嵌める作業を、リング部31と脚部32との接続箇所を支点に脚部32を反らせながら、且つ、脚部32の全体を撓らせながら行うことができる。これにより、コネクタ100の組み立てをさらに容易に行うことができる。
Further, the central portion of the leg portion 32 is made thinner than both end portions of the leg portion 32. As a result, the entire leg portion 32 can be easily bent in the direction away from the connector main body portion 1. Therefore, when attaching the retainer 3 to the connector main body 1, the work of moving the claw portion 33 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body 1 to the first through hole 13 and fitting it into the first through hole 13 is performed as a ring. This can be done while bending the leg portion 32 with the connection point between the portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum and bending the entire leg portion 32. This makes it easier to assemble the connector 100.
次に、コネクタ本体部1にチェッカー4を取り付ける。具体的には、第2突起部45を奥側にして、2つの第1突起部44を、それぞれ第2貫通穴15に嵌め込む。
Next, attach the checker 4 to the connector body 1. Specifically, the two first protrusions 44 are fitted into the second through holes 15 with the second protrusion 45 on the back side.
(コネクタの各部品の動き)
次に、コネクタ100の各部品の動きについて説明する。 (Movement of each part of the connector)
Next, the movement of each component of theconnector 100 will be described.
次に、コネクタ100の各部品の動きについて説明する。 (Movement of each part of the connector)
Next, the movement of each component of the
(パイプ挿入時)
図1に示すように、コネクタ本体部1の内部にパイプ50が挿入される。このとき、図2に示すように、凹部52が凸部16に対向するようにして、パイプ50がコネクタ本体部1の内部に挿入される。そのため、パイプ50に対するコネクタ本体部1の周方向の向きが決まる。 (When inserting a pipe)
As shown in FIG. 1, thepipe 50 is inserted inside the connector main body 1. At this time, as shown in FIG. 2, the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body 1 so that the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16. Therefore, the orientation of the connector main body 1 with respect to the pipe 50 in the circumferential direction is determined.
図1に示すように、コネクタ本体部1の内部にパイプ50が挿入される。このとき、図2に示すように、凹部52が凸部16に対向するようにして、パイプ50がコネクタ本体部1の内部に挿入される。そのため、パイプ50に対するコネクタ本体部1の周方向の向きが決まる。 (When inserting a pipe)
As shown in FIG. 1, the
コネクタ本体部1の内部にパイプ50が挿入されていくと、爪部33がスプール部51に押されて、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に向かって弾性変形する。コネクタ本体部1の奥にパイプ50が完全に挿入されて、スプール部51が爪部33を通過すると、爪部33が元の位置に戻る。これにより、コネクタ本体部1にパイプ50が固定される。
As the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body 1, the claw portion 33 is pushed by the spool portion 51 and elastically deforms toward the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body 1. When the pipe 50 is completely inserted into the back of the connector main body 1 and the spool portion 51 passes through the claw portion 33, the claw portion 33 returns to the original position. As a result, the pipe 50 is fixed to the connector main body 1.
凹部52を凸部16に対向させると、パイプ50に対してコネクタ本体部1を回転させることができなくなる。これにより、パイプ50に対してコネクタ本体部1が回転するのを防止することができる。その結果、雄継手部2に接続されたホースの位置が、コネクタ本体部1の回転に伴って変化するのを防止することができるので、ホースがエンジンなどに接触するのを防止することができる。
If the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16, the connector main body portion 1 cannot be rotated with respect to the pipe 50. This makes it possible to prevent the connector main body 1 from rotating with respect to the pipe 50. As a result, the position of the hose connected to the male joint portion 2 can be prevented from changing with the rotation of the connector main body portion 1, so that the hose can be prevented from coming into contact with the engine or the like. ..
コネクタ本体部1の奥までパイプ50が完全に挿入されると、チェッカー4の嵌合部41が弾性変形する。この状態で、チェッカー4の引張部42を作業者の指で引っ張ることで、コネクタ本体部1からチェッカー4を容易に取り外すことができる。一方、コネクタ本体部1の奥までパイプ50が完全に挿入されていなければ、嵌合部41が十分に弾性変形せず、コネクタ本体部1からチェッカー4を容易に取り外すことができない。
When the pipe 50 is completely inserted to the back of the connector main body 1, the fitting portion 41 of the checker 4 is elastically deformed. In this state, the checker 4 can be easily removed from the connector main body 1 by pulling the pulling portion 42 of the checker 4 with an operator's finger. On the other hand, if the pipe 50 is not completely inserted to the depth of the connector main body 1, the fitting portion 41 is not sufficiently elastically deformed, and the checker 4 cannot be easily removed from the connector main body 1.
(パイプ挿入後)
コネクタ本体部1にパイプ50が固定された後に、カーエアコンの冷媒などが、パイプ50の内部を流通する。これにより、パイプ50の内部に圧力がかかり、コネクタ本体部1の内部から抜け出る方向にパイプ50が動く。すると、図2に示すように、パイプ50のスプール部51によって、リテーナ3の爪部33が、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側に押され、内部空間12の側面とパイプ50の外周面との間に屈曲部33aが食い込む。その結果、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に爪部33が浮き上がるのが抑制される。また、矢印で示すように、リテーナ3の脚部32が、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側とは反対側に引っ張られ、リテーナ3のリング部31が、コネクタ本体部1に当接する。リング部31が、コネクタ本体部1に当接した後は、屈曲部33aの食い込み量が増すにつれて、脚部32にかかる引張荷重が大きくなる。脚部32の引張強度によって、コネクタ本体部1の内部から抜け出る方向へのパイプ50の動きが抑えられる。 (After inserting the pipe)
After thepipe 50 is fixed to the connector main body 1, the refrigerant of the car air conditioner or the like circulates inside the pipe 50. As a result, pressure is applied to the inside of the pipe 50, and the pipe 50 moves in the direction of exiting from the inside of the connector main body 1. Then, as shown in FIG. 2, the claw portion 33 of the retainer 3 is pushed toward the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1 by the spool portion 51 of the pipe 50, and the side surface of the internal space 12 and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 50 are brought into contact with each other. The bent portion 33a bites in between. As a result, it is possible to prevent the claw portion 33 from floating on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body portion 1. Further, as shown by an arrow, the leg portion 32 of the retainer 3 is pulled to the side opposite to the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1, and the ring portion 31 of the retainer 3 comes into contact with the connector main body portion 1. After the ring portion 31 comes into contact with the connector main body portion 1, the tensile load applied to the leg portion 32 increases as the biting amount of the bent portion 33a increases. The tensile strength of the leg portion 32 suppresses the movement of the pipe 50 in the direction of coming out of the inside of the connector main body portion 1.
コネクタ本体部1にパイプ50が固定された後に、カーエアコンの冷媒などが、パイプ50の内部を流通する。これにより、パイプ50の内部に圧力がかかり、コネクタ本体部1の内部から抜け出る方向にパイプ50が動く。すると、図2に示すように、パイプ50のスプール部51によって、リテーナ3の爪部33が、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側に押され、内部空間12の側面とパイプ50の外周面との間に屈曲部33aが食い込む。その結果、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に爪部33が浮き上がるのが抑制される。また、矢印で示すように、リテーナ3の脚部32が、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側とは反対側に引っ張られ、リテーナ3のリング部31が、コネクタ本体部1に当接する。リング部31が、コネクタ本体部1に当接した後は、屈曲部33aの食い込み量が増すにつれて、脚部32にかかる引張荷重が大きくなる。脚部32の引張強度によって、コネクタ本体部1の内部から抜け出る方向へのパイプ50の動きが抑えられる。 (After inserting the pipe)
After the
特許文献1に開示されているような従来の係止爪では、係止爪の曲げ強度で、パイプ50の動きを抑えていた。しかし、カーエアコンなど、パイプ50の内部にかかる圧力が高い用途では、パイプ50の動きを十分に抑えることができず、係止爪が折れ曲がり、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に係止爪が浮き上がることで、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50が抜け出る虞があった。
In the conventional locking claw as disclosed in Patent Document 1, the movement of the pipe 50 is suppressed by the bending strength of the locking claw. However, in applications such as car air conditioners where the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe 50 is high, the movement of the pipe 50 cannot be sufficiently suppressed, the locking claws are bent, and the locking claws are formed on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body 1. By floating, there is a risk that the pipe 50 will come out from the inside of the connector main body 1.
ここで、一般的に、樹脂や金属の引張強度は、曲げ強度よりも高い。そこで、脚部32の引張強度で、パイプ50の動きを抑えることで、カーエアコンなど、パイプ50の内部にかかる圧力が高い用途においても、パイプ50の動きを好適に抑えることができる。これにより、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50が抜け出るのを抑制することができる。
Here, in general, the tensile strength of resin or metal is higher than the bending strength. Therefore, by suppressing the movement of the pipe 50 by the tensile strength of the leg portion 32, the movement of the pipe 50 can be suitably suppressed even in an application such as a car air conditioner in which the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe 50 is high. As a result, it is possible to prevent the pipe 50 from coming out from the inside of the connector main body 1.
ここで、屈曲部33aは、爪部33の全長にわたって設けられている。そのため、例えば、爪部33の中央部のみに屈曲部33aを設けるのに比べて、折れ曲がり箇所の数を少なくすることができる。よって、折れ曲がり箇所にストレスがかかって、爪部33が折れてしまうのを抑制することができる。
Here, the bent portion 33a is provided over the entire length of the claw portion 33. Therefore, for example, the number of bent portions can be reduced as compared with the case where the bent portion 33a is provided only in the central portion of the claw portion 33. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the claw portion 33 from being broken due to stress applied to the bent portion.
(パイプ抜き取り時)
コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50を抜き取る際には、図1に矢印で示すように、パイプ50の周方向に爪部33が移動(回転)される。すると、コネクタ本体部1の外周面に設けられた凸部14に脚部32が乗り上げる。これにより、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に爪部33が浮き上がる。このとき、パイプ50の径方向において、凸部14の高さは、スプール部51の高さよりも高いので、爪部33の先端部がスプール部51から離れる。よって、パイプ50の周方向に爪部33を移動(回転)させて、凸部14に脚部32を乗り上げさせることで、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50を抜き出すことができる。 (When pulling out the pipe)
When thepipe 50 is pulled out from the inside of the connector main body 1, the claw portion 33 is moved (rotated) in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 as shown by an arrow in FIG. Then, the leg portion 32 rides on the convex portion 14 provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1. As a result, the claw portion 33 rises on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body portion 1. At this time, since the height of the convex portion 14 is higher than the height of the spool portion 51 in the radial direction of the pipe 50, the tip portion of the claw portion 33 is separated from the spool portion 51. Therefore, by moving (rotating) the claw portion 33 in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 and riding the leg portion 32 on the convex portion 14, the pipe 50 can be pulled out from the inside of the connector main body portion 1.
コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50を抜き取る際には、図1に矢印で示すように、パイプ50の周方向に爪部33が移動(回転)される。すると、コネクタ本体部1の外周面に設けられた凸部14に脚部32が乗り上げる。これにより、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に爪部33が浮き上がる。このとき、パイプ50の径方向において、凸部14の高さは、スプール部51の高さよりも高いので、爪部33の先端部がスプール部51から離れる。よって、パイプ50の周方向に爪部33を移動(回転)させて、凸部14に脚部32を乗り上げさせることで、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50を抜き出すことができる。 (When pulling out the pipe)
When the
(効果)
以上に述べたように、本実施形態に係るコネクタ100によると、リテーナ3の爪部33に設けられた屈曲部33aの頂点は、コネクタ本体部1の内部空間12の側面よりもコネクタ本体部1の内部側に位置している。よって、パイプ50の内部に圧力がかかり、コネクタ本体部1の内部から抜け出る方向にパイプ50が動くと、パイプ50のスプール部51によって爪部33がコネクタ本体部1の開口11側に押され、内部空間12の側面とパイプ50の外周面との間に屈曲部33aが食い込む。その結果、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に爪部33が浮き上がるのが抑制される。また、リテーナ3の脚部32が、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側とは反対側に引っ張られ、リテーナ3のリング部31が、コネクタ本体部1に当接する。リング部31が、コネクタ本体部1に当接した後は、屈曲部33aの食い込み量が増すにつれて、脚部32にかかる引張荷重が大きくなる。脚部32の引張強度によって、コネクタ本体部1の内部から抜け出る方向へのパイプ50の動きが抑えられる。従来の係止爪では、係止爪の曲げ強度で、パイプ50の動きを抑えていた。しかし、カーエアコンなど、パイプ50の内部にかかる圧力が高い用途では、パイプ50の動きを十分に抑えることができず、係止爪が折れ曲がり、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に係止爪が浮き上がることで、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50が抜け出る虞があった。ここで、一般的に、樹脂や金属の引張強度は、曲げ強度よりも高い。そこで、脚部32の引張強度で、パイプ50の動きを抑えることで、カーエアコンなど、パイプ50の内部にかかる圧力が高い用途においても、パイプ50の動きを好適に抑えることができる。これにより、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50が抜け出るのを抑制することができる。 (effect)
As described above, according to theconnector 100 according to the present embodiment, the apex of the bent portion 33a provided on the claw portion 33 of the retainer 3 is the connector main body portion 1 rather than the side surface of the internal space 12 of the connector main body portion 1. It is located on the inner side of. Therefore, when pressure is applied to the inside of the pipe 50 and the pipe 50 moves in the direction of exiting from the inside of the connector main body 1, the claw portion 33 is pushed toward the opening 11 side of the connector main body 1 by the spool portion 51 of the pipe 50. The bent portion 33a bites between the side surface of the internal space 12 and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 50. As a result, it is possible to prevent the claw portion 33 from floating on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body portion 1. Further, the leg portion 32 of the retainer 3 is pulled to the side opposite to the opening 11 side of the connector main body portion 1, and the ring portion 31 of the retainer 3 comes into contact with the connector main body portion 1. After the ring portion 31 comes into contact with the connector main body portion 1, the tensile load applied to the leg portion 32 increases as the biting amount of the bent portion 33a increases. The tensile strength of the leg portion 32 suppresses the movement of the pipe 50 in the direction of coming out of the inside of the connector main body portion 1. In the conventional locking claw, the movement of the pipe 50 is suppressed by the bending strength of the locking claw. However, in applications such as car air conditioners where the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe 50 is high, the movement of the pipe 50 cannot be sufficiently suppressed, the locking claws are bent, and the locking claws are formed on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body 1. By floating, there is a risk that the pipe 50 will come out from the inside of the connector main body 1. Here, in general, the tensile strength of the resin or metal is higher than the bending strength. Therefore, by suppressing the movement of the pipe 50 by the tensile strength of the leg portion 32, the movement of the pipe 50 can be suitably suppressed even in an application such as a car air conditioner in which the pressure applied to the inside of the pipe 50 is high. As a result, it is possible to prevent the pipe 50 from coming out from the inside of the connector main body 1.
以上に述べたように、本実施形態に係るコネクタ100によると、リテーナ3の爪部33に設けられた屈曲部33aの頂点は、コネクタ本体部1の内部空間12の側面よりもコネクタ本体部1の内部側に位置している。よって、パイプ50の内部に圧力がかかり、コネクタ本体部1の内部から抜け出る方向にパイプ50が動くと、パイプ50のスプール部51によって爪部33がコネクタ本体部1の開口11側に押され、内部空間12の側面とパイプ50の外周面との間に屈曲部33aが食い込む。その結果、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に爪部33が浮き上がるのが抑制される。また、リテーナ3の脚部32が、コネクタ本体部1の開口11側とは反対側に引っ張られ、リテーナ3のリング部31が、コネクタ本体部1に当接する。リング部31が、コネクタ本体部1に当接した後は、屈曲部33aの食い込み量が増すにつれて、脚部32にかかる引張荷重が大きくなる。脚部32の引張強度によって、コネクタ本体部1の内部から抜け出る方向へのパイプ50の動きが抑えられる。従来の係止爪では、係止爪の曲げ強度で、パイプ50の動きを抑えていた。しかし、カーエアコンなど、パイプ50の内部にかかる圧力が高い用途では、パイプ50の動きを十分に抑えることができず、係止爪が折れ曲がり、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に係止爪が浮き上がることで、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50が抜け出る虞があった。ここで、一般的に、樹脂や金属の引張強度は、曲げ強度よりも高い。そこで、脚部32の引張強度で、パイプ50の動きを抑えることで、カーエアコンなど、パイプ50の内部にかかる圧力が高い用途においても、パイプ50の動きを好適に抑えることができる。これにより、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50が抜け出るのを抑制することができる。 (effect)
As described above, according to the
また、屈曲部33aは、爪部33の全長にわたって設けられている。そのため、例えば、爪部33の中央部のみに屈曲部33aを設けるのに比べて、折れ曲がり箇所の数を少なくすることができる。よって、折れ曲がり箇所にストレスがかかって、爪部33が折れてしまうのを抑制することができる。
Further, the bent portion 33a is provided over the entire length of the claw portion 33. Therefore, for example, the number of bent portions can be reduced as compared with the case where the bent portion 33a is provided only in the central portion of the claw portion 33. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the claw portion 33 from being broken due to stress applied to the bent portion.
また、屈曲部33aにおいて、その頂点から脚部32の端部にかけての部分と、その頂点から爪部33の先端部にかけての部分とが、それぞれ直線状である。これにより、爪部33の変形を抑制し、パイプ50を保持する力を高めることができる。
Further, in the bent portion 33a, the portion from the apex to the end of the leg portion 32 and the portion from the apex to the tip of the claw portion 33 are linear, respectively. As a result, it is possible to suppress the deformation of the claw portion 33 and increase the force for holding the pipe 50.
また、パイプ50の周方向に爪部33が移動(回転)した際に、コネクタ本体部1の外周面に設けられた凸部14に脚部32が乗り上げる。これにより、コネクタ本体部1の外周面側に爪部33が浮き上がる。このとき、パイプ50の径方向において、凸部14の高さは、スプール部51の高さよりも高いので、爪部33の先端部がスプール部51から離れる。よって、パイプ50の周方向に爪部33を移動(回転)させて、凸部14に脚部32を乗り上げさせることで、コネクタ本体部1の内部からパイプ50を抜き出すことができる。
Further, when the claw portion 33 moves (rotates) in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50, the leg portion 32 rides on the convex portion 14 provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body portion 1. As a result, the claw portion 33 rises on the outer peripheral surface side of the connector main body portion 1. At this time, since the height of the convex portion 14 is higher than the height of the spool portion 51 in the radial direction of the pipe 50, the tip portion of the claw portion 33 is separated from the spool portion 51. Therefore, by moving (rotating) the claw portion 33 in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50 and riding the leg portion 32 on the convex portion 14, the pipe 50 can be pulled out from the inside of the connector main body portion 1.
また、脚部32が、平坦な板状である。パイプ50の周方向に脚部32が湾曲している場合、リング部31と脚部32との接続箇所を支点として、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に脚部32を反らせるのは容易ではない。これに対して、脚部32が平坦な板状の場合、リング部31と脚部32との接続箇所を支点として、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に脚部32を好適に反らせることができる。よって、コネクタ本体部1にリテーナ3を取り付ける際に、コネクタ本体部1の外周面に当接させた爪部33を第1貫通穴13まで移動させて第1貫通穴13に嵌める作業を、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に脚部32を反らせながら行うことができる。これにより、コネクタ100の組み立てを容易に行うことができる。
Also, the legs 32 have a flat plate shape. When the leg portion 32 is curved in the circumferential direction of the pipe 50, it is not easy to bend the leg portion 32 in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection point between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum. On the other hand, when the leg portion 32 has a flat plate shape, the leg portion 32 can be suitably warped in a direction away from the connector main body portion 1 with the connection portion between the ring portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum. Therefore, when attaching the retainer 3 to the connector main body 1, the work of moving the claw portion 33 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body 1 to the first through hole 13 and fitting it into the first through hole 13 is performed by the connector. This can be done while bending the leg portion 32 in a direction away from the main body portion 1. As a result, the connector 100 can be easily assembled.
また、脚部32の中央部が、脚部32の両端部よりも細くされている。これにより、コネクタ本体部1から離れる方向に、脚部32の全体を容易に撓らせることができる。よって、コネクタ本体部1にリテーナ3を取り付ける際に、コネクタ本体部1の外周面に当接させた爪部33を第1貫通穴13まで移動させて第1貫通穴13に嵌める作業を、リング部31と脚部32との接続箇所を支点に脚部32を反らせながら、且つ、脚部32の全体を撓らせながら行うことができる。これにより、コネクタ100の組み立てをさらに容易に行うことができる。
Further, the central portion of the leg portion 32 is made thinner than both end portions of the leg portion 32. As a result, the entire leg portion 32 can be easily bent in the direction away from the connector main body portion 1. Therefore, when attaching the retainer 3 to the connector main body 1, the work of moving the claw portion 33 in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the connector main body 1 to the first through hole 13 and fitting it into the first through hole 13 is performed as a ring. This can be done while bending the leg portion 32 with the connection point between the portion 31 and the leg portion 32 as a fulcrum and bending the entire leg portion 32. This makes it easier to assemble the connector 100.
また、コネクタ本体部1の内部の側面であって、パイプ50の挿入方向における内部空間12よりも奥側の側面(雄継手部2付近の側面)の一部には、パイプ50の凹部52に対応する凸部16が設けられている。よって、凹部52が凸部16に対向するようにして、パイプ50をコネクタ本体部1の内部に挿入しなければ、コネクタ本体部1の奥までパイプ50を完全に挿入することができない。これにより、パイプ50に対するコネクタ本体部1の周方向の向きが決まる。そして、凹部52を凸部16に対向させると、パイプ50に対してコネクタ本体部1を回転させることができなくなる。これにより、パイプ50に対してコネクタ本体部1が回転するのを防止することができる。その結果、雄継手部2に接続されたホースの位置が、コネクタ本体部1の回転に伴って変化するのを防止することができるので、ホースがエンジンなどに接触するのを防止することができる。
Further, a part of the inner side surface of the connector main body 1 that is deeper than the internal space 12 in the insertion direction of the pipe 50 (the side surface near the male joint portion 2) is formed in the recess 52 of the pipe 50. The corresponding convex portion 16 is provided. Therefore, the pipe 50 cannot be completely inserted to the depth of the connector main body 1 unless the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16 and the pipe 50 is inserted into the connector main body 1. As a result, the orientation of the connector main body 1 with respect to the pipe 50 in the circumferential direction is determined. Then, when the concave portion 52 faces the convex portion 16, the connector main body portion 1 cannot be rotated with respect to the pipe 50. This makes it possible to prevent the connector main body 1 from rotating with respect to the pipe 50. As a result, the position of the hose connected to the male joint portion 2 can be prevented from changing with the rotation of the connector main body portion 1, so that the hose can be prevented from coming into contact with the engine or the like. ..
以上、本発明の実施形態を説明したが、具体例を例示したに過ぎず、特に、本発明を限定するものではなく、具体的構成などは、適宜設計変更可能である。また、発明の実施の形態に記載された、作用及び効果は、本発明から生じる最も好適な作用及び効果を列挙したに過ぎず、本発明による作用及び効果は、本発明の実施の形態に記載されたものに限定されるものではない。
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they merely exemplify specific examples, and are not particularly limited to the present invention, and the specific configuration and the like can be appropriately redesigned. Further, the actions and effects described in the embodiments of the present invention merely list the most suitable actions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the actions and effects according to the present invention are described in the embodiments of the present invention. It is not limited to what has been done.
例えば、コネクタ100の雄継手部2の部分については、この部分が、フランジ継手などにされていてもよい。
For example, regarding the portion of the male joint portion 2 of the connector 100, this portion may be a flange joint or the like.
また、コネクタ100の用途は、カーエアコン用配管などの接続に限られず、燃料用配管の接続や、圧縮空気が流れる配管の接続に用いられてもよい。
Further, the use of the connector 100 is not limited to the connection of the pipe for a car air conditioner or the like, and may be used for the connection of the pipe for fuel or the connection of the pipe through which compressed air flows.
1 コネクタ本体部
2 雄継手部
3 リテーナ
4 チェッカー
5 Oリング
6 バックアップリング
11 開口
12 内部空間
13 第1貫通穴(貫通穴)
14 凸部
15 第2貫通穴
16 凸部
21 流路
31 リング部
31a 孔部
32 脚部
33 爪部
33a 屈曲部
41 嵌合部
42 引張部
43 接続部
44 第1突起部
45 第2突起部
50 パイプ
51 スプール部
52 凹部
100 コネクタ 1Connector body 2 Male fitting 3 Retainer 4 Checker 5 O-ring 6 Backup ring 11 Opening 12 Internal space 13 First through hole (through hole)
14Convex part 15 Second through hole 16 Convex part 21 Flow path 31 Ring part 31a Hole part 32 Leg part 33 Claw part 33a Bending part 41 Fitting part 42 Pulling part 43 Connecting part 44 First protruding part 45 Second protruding part 50 Pipe 51 Spool part 52 Recess 100 Connector
2 雄継手部
3 リテーナ
4 チェッカー
5 Oリング
6 バックアップリング
11 開口
12 内部空間
13 第1貫通穴(貫通穴)
14 凸部
15 第2貫通穴
16 凸部
21 流路
31 リング部
31a 孔部
32 脚部
33 爪部
33a 屈曲部
41 嵌合部
42 引張部
43 接続部
44 第1突起部
45 第2突起部
50 パイプ
51 スプール部
52 凹部
100 コネクタ 1
14
Claims (7)
- パイプが挿入される開口と、前記開口に連通する内部空間とを有するコネクタ本体部と、
前記パイプの端部の外周に設けられた環状の凸部であるスプール部と係合することで、前記コネクタ本体部の内部に挿入された前記パイプを固定するリテーナと、
を有し、
前記リテーナは、
前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側に配置されて、前記開口に連通する孔部を有するリング部と、
前記リング部から、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側とは反対側に延びる脚部と、
前記脚部の前記リング部とは反対側の端部から、前記コネクタ本体部の内部に向かって延びて、前記コネクタ本体部の側部に形成された貫通穴を貫通する爪部と、
を有し、
前記爪部の先端部は、前記コネクタ本体部の内部に前記パイプが挿入された際に、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側から前記スプール部に当接し、
前記爪部には、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側に凸となった屈曲部が設けられており、
前記屈曲部は、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側に折り曲げられた後に、前記コネクタ本体部の前記開口側とは反対側に折り返されたような形に形成されており、
前記屈曲部の頂点は、前記内部空間の側面よりも前記コネクタ本体部の内部側に位置していることを特徴とするスナップフィット係合コネクタ。 A connector body having an opening into which a pipe is inserted and an internal space communicating with the opening,
A retainer for fixing the pipe inserted inside the connector main body portion by engaging with a spool portion which is an annular convex portion provided on the outer periphery of the end portion of the pipe.
Have,
The retainer is
A ring portion arranged on the opening side of the connector main body portion and having a hole portion communicating with the opening portion, and a ring portion.
A leg portion extending from the ring portion to the side opposite to the opening side of the connector main body portion,
A claw portion extending from the end of the leg portion opposite to the ring portion toward the inside of the connector main body portion and penetrating a through hole formed in the side portion of the connector main body portion.
Have,
When the pipe is inserted into the connector main body, the tip of the claw portion abuts on the spool portion from the opening side of the connector main body.
The claw portion is provided with a bent portion that is convex on the opening side of the connector main body portion.
The bent portion is formed so as to be bent toward the opening side of the connector main body and then folded back to the side opposite to the opening side of the connector main body.
A snap-fit engagement connector characterized in that the apex of the bent portion is located on the inner side of the connector main body portion with respect to the side surface of the internal space. - 前記屈曲部は、前記爪部の全長にわたって設けられていることを特徴とする請求項1に記載のスナップフィット係合コネクタ。 The snap-fit engagement connector according to claim 1, wherein the bent portion is provided over the entire length of the claw portion.
- 前記屈曲部において、その頂点から前記脚部の端部にかけての部分と、その頂点から前記爪部の先端部にかけての部分とが、それぞれ直線状であることを特徴とする請求項2に記載のスナップフィット係合コネクタ。 The second aspect of claim 2, wherein the portion of the bent portion from the apex to the end of the leg and the portion from the apex to the tip of the claw are linear. Snap-fit engagement connector.
- 前記パイプの周方向に前記爪部が移動可能なように、前記周方向において、前記貫通穴の幅は、前記爪部の幅よりも広くされており、
前記コネクタ本体部の外面には、前記周方向に前記爪部が移動した際に、前記脚部が乗り上げる凸部が設けられており、
前記パイプの径方向において、前記凸部の高さは、前記スプール部の高さよりも高いことを特徴とする請求項1~3のいずれか1項に記載のスナップフィット係合コネクタ。 The width of the through hole is wider than the width of the claw portion in the circumferential direction so that the claw portion can move in the circumferential direction of the pipe.
The outer surface of the connector main body is provided with a convex portion on which the leg portion rides when the claw portion moves in the circumferential direction.
The snap-fit engagement connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the height of the convex portion is higher than the height of the spool portion in the radial direction of the pipe. - 前記脚部が、平坦な板状であることを特徴とする請求項1~4のいずれか1項に記載のスナップフィット係合コネクタ。 The snap-fit engagement connector according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the legs have a flat plate shape.
- 前記脚部の中央部が、前記脚部の両端部よりも細くされていることを特徴とする請求項5に記載のスナップフィット係合コネクタ。 The snap-fit engagement connector according to claim 5, wherein the central portion of the leg portion is made thinner than both end portions of the leg portion.
- 前記パイプの先端部の外周の一部に凹部が設けられており、
前記コネクタ本体部の内部の側面であって、前記パイプの挿入方向における前記内部空間よりも奥側の側面の一部に、前記凹部に対応する凸部が設けられていることを特徴とする請求項1~6のいずれか1項に記載のスナップフィット係合コネクタ。 A recess is provided in a part of the outer circumference of the tip of the pipe.
The claim is characterized in that a convex portion corresponding to the concave portion is provided on a part of the inner side surface of the connector main body portion on the inner side surface of the inner space in the insertion direction of the pipe. Item 1. The snap-fit engagement connector according to any one of Items 1 to 6.
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JP2020123567A JP6989167B1 (en) | 2020-07-20 | 2020-07-20 | Snap-fit engagement connector |
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Citations (1)
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JP2010223319A (en) * | 2009-03-23 | 2010-10-07 | Nifco Inc | Connector for connecting pipe |
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JP2010223319A (en) * | 2009-03-23 | 2010-10-07 | Nifco Inc | Connector for connecting pipe |
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