AU2016266047B2

AU2016266047B2 - Ventilation device

Info

Publication number: AU2016266047B2
Application number: AU2016266047A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Ryuji Sato
Original assignee: Sahara KK
Current assignee: Sahara KK
Priority date: 2016-05-26
Filing date: 2016-12-01
Publication date: 2017-12-21
Anticipated expiration: 2036-12-01
Also published as: JP6682356B2; KR20170134171A; KR101846098B1; CN107436011B; AU2016266047A1; JP2017211145A; CN107436011A

Abstract

Abstract A ventilation device is automatically closed at low temperatures and at high temperatures and automatically opened at normal temperatures. The ventilation device includes an elongated device main body 10 including a main wail 12 having ventilation openings 12a formed therein, an elongated actuating plate 22 extending along the device main body 10 and slidably supported by the device main body 10 and a temperaturesensitive actuator A that automatically controls the actuating plate 22 to open and close the ventilation openings 12a according to temperature. The temperature-sensitive actuator A includes a support structure 30 disposed in the device main body 10, a first slider 40 notable with respect to the support struture 30 in a longitudinal direction of the device main body 10 and a second slider 50 movable with respect to the first slider 40 in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 0 The second slider 50 is connected to the actuating plate 22. A first shape memory spring 61 urges the first slider 40 in a closing direction A first bias spring 62 urges the first slider 40 in an opposite direction. A second shape-memory spring 63 urges the second sider 50 in an opening direction. A second bias spring 64 urges the second slider 50 in an opposite direction. A transformation temperature of the first shape-memory spring 61 is higher than a transformation temperature of the second shape-memory spring 63. Movement of the first slider 40 is limited by stopper portions 32x, 33x ofthe support structure 30. Movement of the second slider 50 is limited by stopper portions 43x, 44x of the first slider 40. 3 1x 17 15 14 22b 2a 2 2 51 22 31 a 40 - A (Indoor) 4 .. 19 21a (Outdoor) 22a ... 42 -16a 12 a - -- 31 --- -53 52a .K 9 3 1b 7 71 22x 21 22b 13 52x 17

Description

DESCRIPTION VENTILATION DEVICE

Field of the Invention [0001]

The present invention relates to a ventilation device in which a temperature-sensitive actuator is used for automatic ventilation.

Background of the Invention [0002] A ventilation device generally includes; a device main body having ventilation openings, an actuating plate for opening/closing the ventilation openings and a manually operating mechanism for operating the actuating plate to open/close the ventilation openings; The actuating plate is rotatably or slidably supported by the device main body.

[0003]

When an actuating plate is manually operated as; mentioned above, the actuating plate may not; be properly controlled to open/close the ventilation openings. For example, if the ventilation .openings; are; left open when the room is heated in winter, cold air outsidCsUiay enter tie room and warm air may flow out of the room. This may reduce heating efficiency and cause waste of energy. If the ventilation openings are left open when the room is cooled in summer, hot air outside may enter the room and cold air may flow out of the room. This may reduce cooling efficiency and cause waste of energy. To cope with such a problem, development of a ventilation device automatically controlled to open and close according to temperature has been called for.

[0004]

Patent Document 1 (International Patent Application Publication No. WO2013/.118291) discloses a ventilation device including a temperature-sensitive : actuator. In this ventilation device, ventilation openings are opened/ciosed by sliding an actuating plate with respect to an elongated device main body in a longitudinal direction. A shape-memory spring (spring made of a shape-memory alloy) is disposed between one end of the actuating plate and the device main body. A bias spring is disposed between the Other end of the actuating plate and the device main body. Position of the actuating plate is controlled according to tensile forces of these twOsSprings to openfolose the ventilation openings. At low temperatures, a spring: force: of the shape-memory spring is weakened, and therefore, the actuating: pi ate: is: moved to a closing position by a force of the bias spring. At high temperatures, an elastic force of the shape-memory spring is enhanced to overcome the force of the bias spring, moving:the actuating plate to an opening position.

In the: ventilation device of Patent Document i, heating efficiency can be enhanced at low temperatures because the ventilation openings are closed. However, cooling efficiency cannot be enhanced at. high temperatures because the ventilation openings are left open.

[0005]

Patent Document 2 (Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. S63-185044) discloses a ventilation device infli&i^::jifl^.pfrature-sensitive actuator intended to close a ventilation opening at low temperatures and at high temperatures.

In a first embodiment, shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 of the Patent Document 2, two shape-memory alloy springs and two bias springs are connected to an actuating plate slidably supported by a device main body. One of the shape-memory springs and one of the bias springs urge the actuating plate in an opening direction (these springs are referred to as an opening side shape-memory spring and an opening side bias spring hereinafter). The other shape-memory spring and the other bias spring urge the actuating plate in a closing direction (these springs are referred to as a closing side shape-memory spring and a closing side bias spring hereinafter). A transformation temperature of the closing side shape-memory spring is higher than a transformation temperature of the opening side shape-memory spring.

[0006]

In the first embodiment of the Patent Document 2, a force of the closing side bias spring overcomes forces of the opening side shape-memory spring and the opening side bias spring at low temperatures, thereby moving the actuating plate in the closing direction. At an ordinary temperature, which is higher than the:: transformation temperature of the opening side shape-memory spring, the: forces of the opening side Shape-memory spring and the opening side bias spring overcome the forces of the closing side nhape-menfofy spring and the closing side bias spring, thereby moving the actuating plate in the opening direction; At::a high temperature, which is higher than the transformation temperature of the closing side shape-memory spring, the forces of the Closing side shape-memory spring and the closing side bias spring overcome the forces of the opening side shape-memory spring and the opening side bias spring, thereby moving the actuating plate in the closing direction.

[0007]

In a second embodiment of the Patent Document 2 shown in FIG. 4, first and second actuating plates are slidably supported by a device main body such that the actuating plates overlap each other. A first shape-memory spring acts on the first actuating plate in an opening direction and a first bias spring acts on the first actuating plate in a closing direction. A second shape-memory spring acts on the second actuating plate in a closing direction and a second bias spring acts on the second actuating plate in an opening direction. A transformation temperature of the second shape-memory spring is higher than a transformation temperature of the first shape-memory spring.

[0008]

In the second embodiment ofithe Patent Document 2 given above, at low temperatures, although the second actuating plate is at an opening position, the first actuating plate is at a closing position since a force of the; first bias spring overcomes a force of the first shape-memory spring. As a result, a venfilatfon opening is closed. At ordinary temperatures^ the first actuating:plate is also at am opening position since the force of the first shape-memory spring overcomes theforec of the first biaswpring: As a result, the ventilation opening isopened: At high temperatures, although the first actuating plate is at the opening position, the second actuating plate is at a closing position since a force of the second shape-memory spring overcomes a force of the second bias spring. As a result, the ventilation opening is closed.

Problem to be Solved by the Invention [0009]

In the ventilation device according to the first embodiment of the Patent Document 2, four springs act. on one actuating plate. Therefore, it is difficult to adjust the springs and it is difficult to put it into practical application.

In the ventilation device according to the second embodiment of the Patent Document 2, two actuating plates overlapping one another are used. Therefore, it is difficult to put it into practical application.

Means for Solving the Problems [ΘΘΙΘ] TO solve the problems mentioned above, the present invention provides a ventilation device including: an elongated device main body iriehidirig a main wall having ventilation openings formed therein; an elongated actuating plate extending: along the device main body and movably supported by the: device main body, the actuating plate opening and closing the ventilation openings as it moves! and a temperature-sensitive actuator automatically controlling the: actuating plate to open and close the ventilation openings aecordihpt© temperatdre, wherein the temperature-sensitive actuator includes: (a) a support structure disposed in the device main hodyt (b) a first movable body movable with respect to the support1 structure in a longitudinal direction of the device main body; (c) a second movable body movable with respect to the first movable body in the longitudinal direction of the device main body; (d) a first shape-memory spring and a first bias spring disposed between the support structure and the first movable body, the first shape-memory spring and the first bias spring providing the first movable body with forces in opposite directions along the longitudinal direction of the device main body; (e) a second shape-memory spring and a second bias spring disposed between the first movable body and the second movable body, the second shape-memory spring and the second bias spring providing the second movable body with forces in opposite directions along the longitudinal direction of the device main body; (f) a connecting means connecting the second movable body to the actuating plate such that the actuating plate may perform a closing motion when the second movable body is moved in a first direction along the longitudinal direction of the device main body and the actuating plate may perform an opening motion when the second movable body is moved is a second direction opposite to the first direction: (g) a first limiting means that may limit a movement of the first movable body with respect to the support structure ini the: second direction; and |h| a second limiting means that may limit a movement of the second movable body: With respect to the first movable body in the second direction, wherein: one of the first shape-memory spring and the second shape-memory spring urges one of the first movable body and the second movable body corresponding thereto in the first direction; the other of the first shape-memory spring and the second shape-memory spring urges the other of the first movable body and the second movable body corresponding thereto in the second direction; and a transformation temperature of the one of the first shape-memory spring and the seeoniishape-inemdry spring is higher than a transformation temperature of Ihndthefof the first Shapeunernory spring and the Second shape-memory spring.

[00:1 1]

According to the features mentioned above, two kinds of shape-memorf springs having different transformation temperatures and bias springs respectively counteracting these shape-memory springs are used. By this arrangement, the actuating plate can be moved in a closing motion in a low temperature region and a high temperature region and in an opening motion in a normal temperature region. Therefore, both high heating; efficiency and high cooling efficiency can be secured.

Moreover, since the movements of ite first and second movable bodies in the second direction (direction to move the actuating plate in the opening motion) are limited, interference and counter vailing do not occur between a spring system composed of the first shape-memory spring and the first bias spring: and a spring system composed of iheseeond shape-memory spring and the second bias spring, allowing the closing motion to he surely performed.

[0012]

Preferably, the ventilation device further includes a third limiting means that may limit a movement of the first movayefiody with respect to the support structure in the first direction and a fourth limiting means that may limit a movement of the second movable body with respect to the: first: movable body in the first direction.

According to the features giveh above, the movements of the first and the second movablesbodies in the first direction (direction to move (he actuating plate in the cfosing motion) are also limited. Therefore; strokes of movements of the firs! pkl the second movable bodies can be [united.

[0013]

Preferably, the firsf shaplsmemory springy the second shape-memory spring, the first bias spring and the second bias spring are tension coil springs extending in the longitudinal direction of the device main body.

According to the features given above, the fom springs can be arranged along an elongated shape of the device main body.

[00l4j

Preferably, the support structure includes an elongated base portion extending in the longitudinal direction of fhe device main body; the first movable body is an elongated first slider extending in the longitudinal direction of the device main body; the first slider is shorter than the base portion and slidably supported by the base portion; and the second movable body is a second slider slidably supported by the first slider.

According to the features given above, the first and the second movable bodies can be arranged along the elongated shape of the device main body .

[0015]

Preferably, the support structure includes a pair of stopper portions for the first slider for stopping opposite end portions of the first slider; and the pair of stopper peftiosiffor the first slider are respectively provided as the first limiting means and: the third limiting means. •According: to the features given above, structures Of fhcsfifSt and the third hmiting means can be simplified.

[0016]

Preferably, the second shape-memory spring is hooked between one end portion of the first slider and the second slider; the second bias spring is booked between the other end portion of the first slider and the second slider; and the second shape-memory spring and the second bias spring are arranged on a straight line along the sliding direction.

[0017]

Preferably, the second slider includes a slidable portion slidably supported by the first slider and an engagement protrusion protruded from the: slidable portion in a direction orthogonal to a sliding direction; a pair of stopper portions for the second slider are formed in a middle portion of the first slider, the stopper portions for the second slider are spaced from each other in the: sliding direction and may stop the engagement protrusion of the second slider; ahd the pair of stopper portions for the second slider are respectively provided as the second limiting means and the; fourth limiting means.

According to the features given above, stfuetures of the second and the fourth limiting means can be simplified.

[0018]

In one aspect of the present invention, the first; slider includes a slidable portion slidably supported by the base portion and a spring hook portion protruded from a middle portion of the slidable portion in a direction orthogonal to the sliding direction; the first shape-memory spring is hooked between the spring hook portion and one end portion of the support structure; the first bias spring is hooked between the spring hook portion and the other end portion of the support structure; and the first slipf-memory spring and the first bias spring are arranged in a straight line parallel to the second shape-memory spring and the second bias spring.

According to the features given above, a length of the temperature-sensitive actuator can be reduced since the four springs are arranged in two rows.

[0016]

In another aspect of the present invention, the first bias spring is hooked between one end portion of the support structure and the one end portion of the first Slider: the first shape-memory spring: Is hooked between theother end portion of the support structure and the other end portion of the first slider; the first shape-memory spring, the second shape-memory spring, the first bias spring and the second bias spring are arranged in a straight line along the base portion; and the support structure comprises the pair of the stopper portions for the first slider in the base portion at locations respectively spaced from opposite ends of the base portion toward a center.

According to the features given above, a width of the temperature-sensitive actuator can be reduced since the four springs are arranged in one row.

Advantageous Effects of the Invention [0020]

According to the present invention, the heating efficiency and the cooling efficiency can be enhanced since the actuating plate can be moved in the closing motion at low temperatures and at high temperatures. Moreover, the springs can be easily adjusted, and the invention can be put into practical use.

Brief Description of the Drawings [0021] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a ventilation device including a sliding-type actuating plate according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2A is a rear view of a temperature-sensitive actuator used in the ventilation device, shown in a state at low temperatures. FIG. 2B is a rear view of the temperature-sensitive actuator, shown with four springs omitted, shown in a state at low temperatures. FIG. 2C is a rear view showing a relationship between ventilation openings of a main wall of a device main body and control openings of an actuating plate, shown in a state at low temperatures. FIG. 3A is a figure corresponding to FIG. 2A, shown in a state at ordinary temperatures. FIG. 3B is a figure corresponding to FIG. 2B, shown in a state at ordinary temperatures. FIG. 3C is a figure corresponding to FIG. 2C, shown in a state at ordinary temperatures. FIG. 4A is a figure corresponding to FIG. 2A, shown in a state at high temperatures. FIG. 4B is a figure corresponding to FIG. 2B, shown in a state at high temperatures. 7 FIG, 4G is a figure esrsiespQndirig to FIG. 2C, shown in a state at high temperatures. FIG. 5 iis a perspective view of a baseplate of a support structur&iof the; temperature-sensitive actuator. FIG. 6 is a perspective view,^showing a first: shier and a second slider of the temperature-sensitive actuator. FIG, 7 is an exploded perspective view of the first slider and the second slider.

FIG. 8 is a graph showing temperature characteristics of a first shape-memory spring and a second shape-memory spring used in the temperature-sensitive aetuatiM FIG. 9 is. a cross-sectional· view of a ventilation device including a rotatihg-type actuating plate according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10A is apian view of a temperature-sensitive actuator used in the ventilation device according to the second embodiment. FIG. lil is a plan view of a earn member and a second slider of the temperature-sensitive actuator of FIG. 10A, shown in a disassembled condition. FIG. 11A is a rear view of a temperature-sensitive actuator used in a ventilation device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, shown with four springs attached. FIG. 1 IB is a rear view of the temperature-sensitive actuator of FIG. 11A, shown with the four springs omitted. FIG. 12 is a rear view of a base plate, a first slider and a second slider of the temperature-sensitive actuator of thethird embodiment, shown in a disassembled condition.

Mode fpr Carrying out the invention.

[0022] A ventilation device according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 1., a ventilation device 1 includes a device main body 10 formed in an elongated configuration extending in a direction orthogonal to the plane of the draw ings. The device main body 10 is formed by connecting an inner frame 11 located on an indoor side and an outer frame 15 located on an outdoor side to each other.

[O02:3|

The inner frame 11 mdiudesidmain wall 12; standing vertically and facing; an interior of a room, a pair of horizontal walls 13 respectively continuous from an upper edge and a lower edge of the main wall 12 and a pairiof flange portions 14 respectively extending upward and downward in the vertical direction from: edges of the horizontal walls 13 on the minor Side,

The outer frame 15 includes a secondary wall 16 standing vertically and facing an exterior of the ro«ri and a pair of horizontal walls 17 respectively extending in the horizontal direction from an upper edge and a lower edge of the secondary wall 16 toward the k ior of the room.

[0024]

End portions of the upper and lower horizontal walls 13 of the inner frame 11 are respectively connected to end portions of the upper and Sower horizontal walls; If of the outer frame 15.

The device; main body 1| integrally including components to he described later therein is inserted in an opening 2a of a wall 2 of a building. The device main body 10 is horizontally attached to the; wall 2 by fixing the flange portions 14 to a surface of the wall 2; on the indoor side.

[0025] A multitude of ventilation openings 12a haying an elongated configuration extending in the vertical direction are formed in the main wall 12. The ventilation openings 12a are arranged at a constant pitch in a longitudinal direction of the main wall 12. A multitude of ventilation openings 16a having an elongated configuration extending in the vertical direction are formed in the secondary wall 16 as well. The ventilation openings 16a arc arranged at a constant pitch in a longitudinal direction of the sccondary wall 16.

The device main body 10 includes ventilation passages 19 formed by up; inner space thereof and the ventilation openings 12a, 16a.

[0026] A manually actuating plate 21 and an automatically actuating plate 22 having elongated configurations extending in a longitudinal direction of the device main body 10 are received in the device may body 10 such that the actuating plates 21, 22 stand in the vertical direction. The actuating plates 21, 22 and the inner frame 11 and the outer frame 15 are made of extruded material such as aluminum.

[0027]

The manually actuating plate 21 is contacted with a surface of the secondary wall 16 on the indoor side and is supported by the device main body 10 sb: as to: he slidable in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10. The manually actuating plate 21 includes a multitude of control openings ill a having the Same eoniguration as theventilation openings 16a and arranged at thCiSame pitch as the ventilation openings 16a. When the control openings 21a and the Ventilation openings 16a completely coincide with each other, the ventilation openings 16a are fully opened and when the control openings 21a and the ventilation openings 16a do not coincide at all with each other, the ventilation openings 16a are completely closed.

The manually actuating plate 21 is connected to an operation tab (not shown 1 slidably supported by the inner frame 11 and is opened or closed ly operation of the operation tab, [0028] T he automatically actuating plate 22 is contacted with a surface of the main wall 12 on the outdoor side and is supported by the device main body 10 so as to be slidable: in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10. The:::aiipmaticaliy actuating plate 22 has a multitude of control openings 22a having the same configuration as the ventilation openings 12a and arranged at the same pitch as the ventilation openings 12a. When the control openings 22a and the ventilation openings 12a completely coincide with each other, the: ventilation openings 12a are hilly opened arid when the control openings 22a and the ventilation openings: 12a do not coincide at all with each other, the ventilation openings 12a are completely closed.

The automatically actuating plate 22 is automatically controlled to be opened or closed according to temperature by a temperature-sensitive actuator A.

[0029]

The temperature-sensitive actuator A is received in one end portion of the inner space of the device: main body 10 in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10 so as to overlap the automatically actuating plate 22 in an indoor-outdoor direction. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the actuator A is formed as a unit including a support structure 30 supported by the device main body 10 so as not to be movable in the longitudinal direction, a first slider 40 (first movable body) movable with respect to the support structure 30 in the longitudinal direction of the device main bpdy 10, a second slider 50 (second movable body) movable with respect to the first slider 40 in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10, four tension coil springs 61, 62. 63. 64 {see FIG. 2) and a cover 70 covering these components from the outdoor side, ’['he cover 70 has a U-shaped cross-sectional configuration and includes a multitude of ventilation openings 71 spacechy arranged in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10.

[0030]

Aashown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the support structure 30 includes a base plate 31 (base portion) having an elongated configuration extending in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10 and spring holders 32, 33 fixed to opposite ends of the base plate 31. The spring holders 32,33 are made of resin. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5. the base plate 31 is made of a metal plate to ha ve a U-shaped cross-sectional configuration. The base plate 31 includes a main plate portion extending vertically, an upper flange portion 31a composed of left and right parts and a lower flange portion 3 lb composed of left and right parts. The main plate portion of the base plate 31 includes a central flange portion 31 c located in a central portion thererof and a plurality of ventilation openings:. The main plate portion of the base plate 31 is disposed so as to be opposed to the automatically actuating plate 22 with a slight gap therebetween. The flange portions 31a, 3tb, 31c are horizontally protruded toward tie outdoor.

[0031]

As shown in FIG. 2, the spring holders 32, 33 include protrusions 32a, 33a in upper and lower ends thereof. The protrusions 32a, 33a can he: engaged with notches (not shown) formed in the outdoor side end portions of the horizontal wails 13 of the inner frame IT in the device main body 30, and thereby the support structure 30 can be supported by the device main body ID so as; not to be movable with respect to the device main body 10 in the longitudinal direction.

[0032]

As shown in FIG. 2, an upper portion of the spring holder 32 is provided as a stopper portion 32x (third limiting means) and a lower portion of the spring holder 32 is provided as a spring hook portion 32y (first spring hook portion). Similarly, an upper portion of the spring holder 33 is provided as a stopper portion 33x (first limiting means) and a lower portion of the spring holder 33 is provided as a spring hook portion 33y (first spring hook portion).

[0033]

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first slider 40 is made of a metal plate. The first slider 40 includes a slidable portion 40a having a L-shaped cross sectional configuration elongated in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10. The sladable portion 40a is composed of a vertical plate portion 4! and a horizontal plate portion 42 protruded toward the outdoor from a lower edge of the vertical plate portion 41. The slidable portion 40a is shorter than the base plate 31 and is disposed in an upper portion of the base plate 31. The vertical plate portion 41 of the first slider 40 is contacted with the base flats 31. The horizontal plate portion 42 is contacted with the central flange portion 31 c of the base plate 31. The first slider 40 is supported by the device main body 10 so as to be slidable in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10 guided by the upper flange portion 31 a and the central flange portion 31 c of the base plate 31.

Opposite end portions of the: list slider 40 are opposed to the stopper portions 32x, 33x of the spring holders 32, 33 in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10, which is a sliding direction of the first, slider 40, [0034]

As shown in FIGS. 2, 6 and 7. a notch 43 is formed in a central portion of the horizontal plate portion 42 of the first slider 40. A spring hook portion 44 (middle spring hook portion) is formed in one end portion of the notch 43 in a longitudinal direction. The spring hook portion 44 is bent vertically downward. A side edge 43x of the notch 43 spaced from the spring: hook portion 44 serves as a stopper portion (second limiting means) to be described later. One side edge; 44x of the spring hook portion |4 also serves as a stopper portion (fourth limiting means) to be described later.

MorOOven; spring hook portions 45, 46 (second spring; hook portions) are formed in opposite; end portions of the horizontal plate portion 42 of the first slider 40, The spring hook portions 45, 46 are cut and raised vertically upward.

[0035]

As shown in FIGS. 1 and % the second slider 50 is slidable with respect to the first slider 4i in the iinitudinal direction of the device main body 10.

As shownin FIGS. 6 and 7, the second slider 50 is made of resin, for example, and includes a slidable portion 51 and an engagement protrusion 52. The slidable portion 51 has an elongated configuration extending in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10. The engagement protrusion"52 is protruded downward from one end of the slidable portion 51. The slidable portion 51 is shorter than the first slider 40, [0036] A groove 53 is formed between the slidable portion 51 and the engagement protrusion 52. As shown in FIG. 1, the horizontal plate portion 42 of the first slider 40 and the central flange portion 31c of the base plate 31 are received in the groove 53. An upper surface of the slidable portion 511s contacted with tip upper flange portion 31a of the base plate 31 and a lower surface of the engagCPCPf protrusion 52 is contacted Mill the lower flange portion 31b Of the base plate 31. The second slider 50 is slidably supported by the:base plate 31 and the first slider 40 in this manner.

[0037]

The engagement protrusion 52 of the second slider 50 is disposed in the notch 43 of the first slider 40. Opposite end surfaces of the engagement prohmsion 52 in a sliding direction are opposed to the side edge 43x of the notch 43 and the sile edge 44x of the spring hook portion 44 in the sliding direction.

[0038]

As shown in FIGS. 1,2 and 7, the; second slider 50 includes a connecting claw Six protruded upward from the Slidable portion 51 and a connecting claw 52x protruded downward from the engagement protrusion 52. The connecting claws 5 lx, J2x (connecting means) can be fitted into notches 22x formed in upper and lower horizontal flanges 12b of the automatically actuating plate 22. Thereby, the; second slider 50 can be connected to the automatically actuating plate 22, and thereby, the second slider 50 and the automatically actuating plate 22 can he moved together in the longitudinal direction of the device mam body 10.

[0039] A moving direction of the; first slider 40 and the second slider 50 that pauses the automatically actuating plate:22 to be moved in a closing direction is referred to as aefpsing direction (first direction) hereinafter and indicated with a reference numeral Dc in FIGS. 2A to 4A. A moving direction of the first slider 40 and the second slider 50 that causes the automatically actuating plate 22 to be moved in an opening direction is referred to as an opening direction (second direction) and indicated with a reference numeral Do m FIGS. 2A to 4A.

[0040]

As shown in FIG. 2, the first slider 40 receives a force of a first shape-memory spring 61 (spring made of shape-memory alloy) and a force of a first bias spring 62, which work in opposite directions. The first shape-memory spring 61 works in the closing direction Dc and the first bias spring 62 works in the opening direction Do.

[0041]

The first shape-memory spring 61 and the first bias spring 62 extend in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10 below the slidable portion 40a of the first slider 40 and are arranged in a straight line. One end of the first shape-memory spring 61 is hooked in the spring hook portion 32y of the spring holder 32. The other end of the first shape-memory spring 61 is hooked in the spring hook portion 44 of the first slider 40. One end of the first Mas spring 62 is hooked in a pin disposed in the spring hook portion 33y of the spring holder 33. The other end of the first bias spring 62 is hooked in the spphg hook portion 44 of the first slider 40. A recess 52a for passing the first bias spring 62 therethrough (see FIG. 7) m formed in the engagement protrusion 52 of the second slider 50.

[0042]

The seeond shder 50 receives a force of a seeond shape-memory spring 61 and a force ofia second bias spring 64, which work in opposite directions. The second shape-memory spring 63 (spring made of shape-memory alloy) works in the: opening dlreuhon Do with respect to the second slider 50 and the second bias spring 64 works in the closing direction Dc.

[0043 i

The second shape-memory spring 63 and the second bias spring 64 are arranged in a straight line along the slidable portion 40a of the first slider 40 so as to be parallel to the fu st shape-memory spring 61 and the first bias spring 62. One end of the second shape-memory spring 63 is hooked in the spring hook portion 45 of the first slider 40. The other end of the second shape-memory spring 63 is hooked in the spring hook portion of the slidable: portion 51 of the seeond slider 50. One end of the second bias spring 64 is hooked in the spring hook portion 46 of the first slider 41. The other end of the second bias spring 64 is hooked in a pin disposed in the spring hook portion of the slidable portion 51.

[0044]

As shown in FIG. 8, propertiespf temperature-spring constant of the first shape-memory spring 61 and the second shape-memory spring 63 are; plotted in similar curves. However, a transformation temperature of the first shape-memory spring 61 is shifted to higher temperature than a transformation temperature; of the second shape-memory spring 63. A detailed description of the foregoing: will be provided later.

[0045]

Actions of the ventilation device: 1 having the features given above will be described hereinafter with reference to FIG. 8. At low temperatures of 6°C or lower (low temperature region), the spring constants of the shape-memory springs 61, 63 are very small. Therefore, as show® in FIGS. 2A and 2B| the first bias spring 62 evemomes the first shape-memory spring 61 and the first slider 4| is moved in the opening direction Do. At this time; movement of the first slider If in the opening direction Do is limited because a leflend portion of the first slider 40 is abutted against; the stopper portion 33x of the spring holder ii. On the other hand, the second slider SO is rnoved in the closing direction Dc beeansci the second bias spring 64 overcomes the second shape-memory spring 63. At this time* the movement of the second slider IQ in the closing direction Dc is limited because a right end surface of the engagement protrusion 52 of the second slider 50 is abutted against, die side edge 44x of the spring hook portion 44 of the first slider 40.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 2C, the second slider 50 can be iirsg state: in which the ventilation openings 12a of the device main body 10 are narrowed by the actuating plate 22 (2/3 closed). In this state, cold air outside is constrained from entering fh©: room and warm air inside is constrained from leaving the room, and therefore high/heating efficiency can be maintained. When heating is performed without combustion, the ventilation openings 12a may be completely closed since there is no need1 for ventilation of exhaust gas. f 0046]

Since the movement of the first slider 41 in the opening direction Do is limited at low temperatures us mentioned above, the force of the second bias spring 64 is not interfered or countervailed, by the force of the first bias spring 62. Therefore, the closing motion can be singly performed.

[0047]

Whep t|c tcpiperature reaches 6”C, a spring force of the second shape-memory spring 63 is increased to be equal to a spring force of the second bias spring 64. When the temperature rises higher, the spring force of the second shape-memory spring 63 is increased in a generally linear manner, and moves the second slider 50 in the opening direction Do through a distance corresponding to the rise in the temperature. As a result, the actuating plate 22 is moved in the opening direction. In this manner, a degree of opening of the ventilation openings lia is controlled to be a degree corresponding to the temperature in a temperature range of from 6°C to 16°C (intermediate: temperature region). The degree of opening is greater as the temperature is higher. pince the end portion of the first slider 40 is maintained at a position abutted against the stopper portion 33x of the spring holder 33 during the control of the degree of opening by the second slider 50, the first shape-memory spring il and the first bias spring 62 do not affect the control of the degree of opining.

[004i]

When the temperature rises further and reaches 16°C, the second slider 50 is abutted against the side edge 43x of the notch 43 of the first slider 40 as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B and causes the actuating plate 22 to fully open the ventilation openings 12a as shown in FIG. 3® The ventilation openings 12a are maintained at the fully opened state While the temperature is between 16°C and 26°C (normal temperature region).

[0049]

When the temperature reaches 26?:C, a spring force of the first shape-memory spring 61 is increased to he equal to a spring force of the first bias spring 62. When the temperature rises higher, the spring force of the first shape-memory spring 61 is increased in a generally Imear manner, and moves the first slider 40 in the closing direction Dc through a distance Corresponding to the rise in the temperature.

As a result, the second slider 50 is moved in the same direction and causes the actuating plate 22 to close the ventilation openings 12a. In this manner, the actuating plate 22 is controlled to make a degree of opening of the ventilation openings 12a to he a degree corresponding to the temperature in a temperature range of from 26‘C to 36’C (intermediate temperature region).

The degree of opening is smaller as the temperature is higher.

During the control of the degree of opening by the first shape-memory spring 61 accompanying the movement of the first: slider 40, the second slider 50 is maintained in a state in which the protrusion 52 thereof Is abutted against the side: edge 43x of the notch 43 of the first slider 4h without affecting the control of the degree of opening. In other words, the force of the first shape-memory spring: 61 is not interfered or countervailed by the force of the second shape-memory spring 63.

[0050]

Wlien the temperature reaches 36°C, the first shape-memory spring 61 completely overcomes the first bias spring 62 as shown in FIGS 4A and 4B and causes the actuating plate: 22: to completely close the ventilation openings 12a as shown in FIG, 4G. Therefore* hot air outside is constrained from entering the rqonx and cool air inside iis constrained from leaving the room, and thus high cooling efficiency can be maintained, Jtt this time, an end portion of the first slider 40 is abutted against the stopper portion 32x of die spring holder 32. The second slider 50 is maintained in a state in which the engagement protrusion 52 thereof is abutted against the side edge 43x of the notch 43 of the first slider 40.

[0051]

At a time of fire, the temperature-sensitive actuator A can work in a similar manner as it does at high temperatures to close the ventilation openings 12a. Accordingly, supply of oxygen to the room can be constrained and thus, a spread of fire can be delayed. To achieve this role, it is preferable that fire retardancy of at least the spring holder 32 may be enhanced. In place of the spring holder 32, an end portion of the base plate 31 may be raised to form a spring hook portion for hooking the one end of the first shape-memory spring 61.

[0052]

In the embodiment described above, the first, shape-memory spring 61 and the first bias spring 62 may he disposed in place of each other and the second shape-memory spring 63 and the second bias spring 64 may be disposed in place of each other. In this case, the first shape-memory spring 61 urges the first slider 40 in the opening direction and the second shape-memory spring 63 urges the second slider 60 in the closing direction. In this ease, design is made such that the transformation temperature, of the second shape-memory spring 63 is shifted to higher temperature than the transformation temperature of the first shape-memory spring 61.

[0053]

Cither embodiments of the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. Same or similar reference numerals are used to designate parts that correspond to those in foregoing embodiments and description thereof will be omitted. 16154] A ventilation device Γ according to a second embodiment is shown in FIGS, f and 1|). The ventilation device 1 ’ is to: be incorporated into a window sash as a fop rail. A device main body 10' of the ventilation device 1' is formed so as to he elongated in a direction orthogonal to the plane of FIG. 9. The device main body 10’ includes a pair wall 12 extending vertically. A multitude of ventilation openings f2a are; formed in the main wall 12. The ventilation openings 12a are arranged in a longitudinal direction spaced from each other.

[0055] A shaft support portion 18 is formed in an upper edge portion of the main will 12. An upper edge porfion pf an actuating plate 25 is rotatably supported by the shaft support portion 18. When the actuating plate 25 is brought closer to the main wall 12^ foe ventilation openings 12a are closed and when the actuating plate 25 is brought away from the main wad fi, foe ventilation openings 12a are opened.

[0056] A temperature-sensitive actuator; A includes four Springs 61, 62, 63. 64 arranged on a horizontal plane in two rows. As shown in FIG, 10, the actuator A includes a cam member 80 as connecting means for connecting; a second slider 50 to the actuating plate 25, The cam member 80 includes a cam groove 81 inclined with respect to the main wall 12. A protrusion 25a (shown only in FIG. 9) formed in a lower edge of the actuating plate 25 is received in the cam groove 81.

[0057]

The second slider 50 includes a connecting portion 59 in place of the connecting claws Six, Six in the first embodiment. The connecting portion 59 passes through a lower portion of tie main wall 12 m as to be slidable in a longitudinal direction of the device main body 10’ and is engaged in an engagement opening (not shown) of the cam member 80. By this arrangement, the cam member 80 can be moved in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10’ together with the second slider 50.

[0058]

Actions of the ventilation device Γ according to the second embodiment will he inscribed briefly. FIG. 10 shows the actuator A at normal temperatures. At normal temperatures, a first slider 40 is moved in an opening direction Do by a force of a first bias spring 62. An end portion the first slider 4§ is abutted against a stopper portion 3|x. The second slider 50 is moved in the opening direction Do by a force of a second shape-memory spring 6i, An engagement protrusion 52 of the second slider 50 is abutted against a side edge 4|x of a notch 43. Thereby, the cam member 80 is moved in the opening direction Do. The actuating plate 25 is moved away from the main wail 12 by a camming action of the; cam groove 8], thereby opening the ventilation openings 12a.

[00591

At low7 temperatures, the second slider 50 is moved in a closing direction Dp by a force of a second bias spring 64. An engagement protrusion 52 of the second slider 50 is abutted against a side edge 44x of a spring hook; portion 44, Thereby, the earn member 80 is moved in the closing direction Dc. The actuating plate 25 Is rotated to he closer to the main wall 12 by the camming action of the cam groove 81, thereby dosing the ventilation openings 12a.

[0060]

At high temperatures, the first slider 40 is moved in a closing direction Dc by a force of a first shape-memory spring 61. An end portion of the first slider 40 is abutted against a stopper portion 32x. Thereby, the cam member 80 is moved in the closing direction De. The; actuating plate 25 is rotated to be closer to the main wall 12 bpthe camming: action: of the cain pOove 81, thereby: closing the ventilation openings 12a.

[Mil]

In die second errs bod intent, the cam member 80 may be fixed to the device main body 10* and the actuating plate 25 may be made slidable in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10’. The actuating plate 25, as it slides, may be brought closer to or away from the main wall 12 by the camming action of the cam groove Hi lit this case, the second slider 50 is connected to the actuating plate 25 such that tbesactuating plate 25 may be rotatable and may be slidable together with the second slider 50 in the longitudinal direction of the device main body 10’.

[0062]

In a temperature-sensitive actuator A’ according to a third embodiment shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, four springs 61, 62, 63, 64 are arranged in a row; along a straight line extending in a longitudinal direction of a device main body. A support structure 30’ includes a base plate 31’ (base portion) and spring holders 32’, 33’ fixed in opposite end portions of the base plate 3Γ. The base plate 3Γ is longer and narrower than the base plate 31 of the first and second embodiments.

[0063] A slidable portion 40# of a first slider 405 ;s shorter than the base plate 3Γ, The: first slider 40’ Includes spring hook portions: 4|, 49 (second spring hook: portions) in opposite end portions of the slidable portion 40a’ A first shape-memory spring 61 is hooked between a spring hook portion 32v of the spring holder 32" and the spring hook portion 48. A first bias spring; 62 is hooked between a spring hook portion 33y of the spring; holder 33’ and the spring hook portion 49.

[0064] A second bias spring 64 is hooked between a slidable portion 51 ’ of the second slider 5®’ and the spring hook portion 481 A second shape-memory spring 63 is hooked between the slidable portion 5Γ and the spring hook portion 49.

[0065!

Stopper portions 3lx, 31 y (stopper portions for first slider) are; cut;and raised from |he base plate 31 ’. The stopper portions 31 x, 31 v are disposed closer |p a center of the base plate 3Γ than the spring holders 32’, 33’. The first slider 40’ is disposed between the stopper portions 31 x, 3 ly. A movement of the first slider 40’ in an opening direction Do is limited by abutment of one end portion of the first slider 40’ against the stopper portion 31 x (first limiting means) and a movement of the first

Slider 40’ in a desing direction Dc is limited by abutment of the other end portion of the first slider 4Θ’ against the stopper portion 31 y {third limiting means).

[0066]

The second slider Si)’ includes connecting claws 5lx, 5lx similar to those of the first embodiment; The connecting claws Six, Six function as connecting means for connecting to anactuating plate 22 {See FMT 1). Two connecting daws Six located on a lower side: also function as engagement protrusions described later.

[00671 A notch 43 is formed in a horizontal plate portion 42 of the first slider 40’. Opposite side edges 43x, 43y of the notch 43 function as stopper portions for the second slider SOT The connecting daws Six on the lower side of the second slider S(F are disposed in the notch 43. A movement of the second slider 50' in the opening direction Do is limited by abutment of the connecting daws Six on a left side against the side edge 43x (second limiting means) on a left side of the notch 43and a movement of the second slider I#’ in closing direction Dc is limited by abutment of the connecting claws Six on a right side against the side edge 43y (fourth limiting means) on a right side of the notch 43.

[0068]

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of this invention. For examples; the; ventilation device of the first embodiment may be used as a top rail of a window sash. In this case, the device main body needs to have a configuration similar to; that of the; second embodiment.

The support structure may be integrally formed with the device main body. Temperature characteristics of the temperature-sensitive actuator can be changed as appropriates

The first; arid second s;hape-memory springs and the first and second bias springs may be compressed springs,

Indυstrial Applicability [0066]

The present invention may be applied to a ventilation device automat|eilly controlled to open and close according to the temperature;·

Claims

Claims [Claim i] A ventilation device comprising: an elongated device main body comprising a main wall having ventilation openings formed therein; an elongated actuating plate extending along the device main body and movably supported by the device main body, the actuating plate opening and closing the ventilation openings as it moves; and a tempepinte--sensitiye actuator automatically controlling the actuating plate to open and close the ventilation openings according; to temperature; wherein the temperature-sensitive actuator comprises: (a) a support structure disposed in the device main body; (b) a first movable body movable with respect to the support structure in a longitudinal direction of the device main body; (c) a second movable body movable with respect to the first movable body in the longitudinal direction of the device main body; (d) a first shape-memory spring and a first bias spring disposed between the support structure and the first movable body, the first shape-memory spring and the first bias spring providing the first movable body with forces in opposite directions along the longitudinal direction of the device main body; (e) a second Shape-memory Spring and a second bias spring disposed between the first movable body arid the Second movable body, the second shape-memory spring and the Second bias Spfiilg providing the second movable body with forces in opposite directions along the longitudinal direction of the device main body; (f) a connecting means connecting the second movable body to the actuating plate such that the actuating plate may perform a closing motion when the second movable body is moved in a first direction along the longitudinal direction of the device main body and the actuating plate may perform an opening motion when the .second movable bodyls moved in a second direction opposite to the first direction; |g) a first limiting meahs that may limit a movement of the first movable body with respect to the support Structure In the second direction; and |h) a second limiting means that may limit a movement of the second movable body with respect to the first movable body in the second direction, wherein: one of the first shape-memory spring and the second shape-memory spring urges one of the first movable body and the second movable body corresponding thereto in the first direction; the other of the first shape-memory spring and the second shape-memory spring urges; the other of the first movable body and die second movable body corresponding thereto in the second direction; and a transformation temperature of the one of the first shape-memory spring and the second shape-memory spring is higher than a transformation temperature of the other of the first shape-memory spring and the second shape-memory spring. [Maim 2 j The ventilation device according to claim 1, further comprising: a third limiting means that may limit a movement; of the first movabte body with respect to the support structure in the first direction; and a fourth limiting means that may limit a movement of the second movable hedy Vtith respect to the first movable body in the first diteefiom [Maim 3] The ventilation device according to claim 2, wherein the first shape-memory spring, the second shape-memory spring, the first bias spring and the second bias spring are tension coil springs extending in the longitudinal direction of the device main body. [Claim 4] The ventilation device according to eMa 3, wherein: the support structure comprises an elongated base portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the device main body; the first movable body is an elongated first slider extending in the longitudinal direction of the device main body; the first slider is shorter than the base poitioii and slidably supported by the base portion; and the second movable body is a second slider slidably supported by the first slider. [Claim 5j The venfilatfon de vice according to claim 4, wherein: the support structure comprises a pair of stopper portions for the first slider for stopping Opposite end portions of the first slider; and the pair of Stopper portions for the first slider are respectively provided as the; first limiting; means; and the third limiting means. The ventilation device according to claim 5, wherein: the second shape-memory spring is hookedfeetweea one end portion of the first slider and the second slider; the second Bias spring is hooked between the other end portion of the first shier and the second slider; and the second shape-memory spring and the second pas Spring are arranged on a straight line along the sliding direction, plaim 7] The ventilation device according to clamp wherein: the second slider comprises; a slidable portion; slidably supported by the first slider and an engagement protrusion protruded from the slidable portion in a direction orthogonal to a sliding direction; a pair of stopper portions for the second slider are formed in a middle portion of the first slider, the stopper portions; for the second slider are spaced from each other in the sliding direction and may s|pp the engagement; protrusion of the second slider ; and the pair of stopper portions for the second slider are respectively provided as the second limiting means and the fourth limiting means, [Claim 8} The ventilation device according to claim 7, wherein: the first slider comprises a slidable portion slidably supported by the base portion and a spring hook portion protruded from a middle portion of the slidable portion in a direction orthogonal to the sliding direction; the first shape-memory spring is hooked between the spring hook portion and one end portion of the support structure: the first bias spring is hooked between the spring hook portion and the other end portion of the support struct ure; and the first shape-memory spring and the first bias spring are arranged in a straight line parallel to the second shape-memory spring and the Second bias spring. [Claim 9] The ventilation device according to claim ;S, Wherein: the first bias spring is hooked between one end portion of fbe support structure and the one end portion of the first slider; the first shape-memory spring; is hooked between the other end portion of the support structure and the other end portion of the first slider; the first shape-memory spring, the second shape-memory spring, the first bias spring and the second bias spring are arranged in a straight line along the base portion; and the support structure comprises the pair of the stopper portions for the first slider in the base portion at locations respectively spaced from opposite ends of the base portion toward a center.