JP4469473B2

JP4469473B2 - Connected device

Info

Publication number: JP4469473B2
Application number: JP2000225642A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 章堀本
Original assignee: Sakura Rubber Co Ltd
Current assignee: Sakura Rubber Co Ltd
Priority date: 2000-07-26
Filing date: 2000-07-26
Publication date: 2010-05-26
Anticipated expiration: 2020-07-26
Also published as: JP2002039454A

Description

【０００１】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明は、構造が簡単で接続操作が容易であるとともに、信頼性の高い配管要素等の２部材の接続装置に関する。さらに特定すれば、本発明は互いに軸方向に嵌合する嵌合突部の側面に形成された係止鉤部が互いに係合して軸方向の移動を規制する接続装置において、接続操作の容易性を損なわずに上記の係止鉤部の係合状態をより確実に維持することができる接続装置を提供するものである。
【０００２】
【従来の技術】
従来から、２つの部材、たとえば油圧システムの配管要素を接続する装置としては、螺子により締結される継手装置が汎用されている。このような継手装置は、構造が簡単であるが、緩みが生じやすい等の本質的な不具合がある。
【０００３】
すなわち、螺子による締結は、締め付けにより発生する各部の弾性力により、雄螺子と雌螺子の螺条の間に生じる摩擦力により、この締結状態を維持する。このような締結状態にある螺子に振動等が作用すると、この振動による各部の慣性力により、雄螺子と雌螺子が微小ではあるが相対的に回動することがある。この場合に、この螺子の締め付け方向の回動抵抗は大きいが、緩み方向の回動抵抗は小さい。一般に振動により発生する慣性力は、正逆両方向に等しいものであるが、上記のように螺子の回動抵抗が方向により差があるため、緩み方向の回動量の方が大きくなる傾向がある。このため、長期間の間振動等が作用すると、次第に螺子の緩みが発生する。このような螺子による締結は、配管要素の接続装置ばかりでなく、各種の部材を螺子により締結して接続する場合一般に共通した問題である。
【０００４】
このような螺子の緩みを減少させるためにスプリングワッシャを介在させる等のことがなされているが、本質的に螺子の緩みの傾向は解消できない。また、螺子を締結した後に、セフティワイヤ等で固定する対策はあるが、このセフティワイヤ掛け作業は面倒であり、非能率的である等の不具合がある。
【０００５】
このような不具合を解消するために、互いに軸方向に嵌合する嵌合突部の側面に係止鉤部を形成し、この係止鉤部を周方向に係合させて軸方向の移動を規制して締結状態とする継手装置が考えられた。このようなものは、これらの係止鉤部の係合面の摩擦により、上記の嵌合部材の相対的な回動が防止されて締結状態が維持されるが、この係止面は周方向に沿った方向に係合しているため、本質的に正逆いずれの方向についても、その回動抵抗力を等しくすることができる。そして、前述のように振動により発生する慣性力は正逆両方向で等しいので、振動によりこれら嵌合部材が一方向に優先的に回動するような傾向を生じることはない。よって、振動による緩みを確実に防止することができる。
【０００６】
しかし、より確実にこれら係止鉤部の係合の緩みを防止するには、この係止鉤部の係合面が、その先端縁が基端側に位置するように傾斜した形状、すなわちオーバーハング状をなしていることが好ましい。このようなオーバーハング状の係止鉤部が係合すると、スプリング等の付勢手段の軸方向の付勢力により、これらの係止鉤部の係合面が互いに噛み合う状態となり、緩みを防止できる。
【０００７】
しかし、これらの係止鉤部を上記のようなオーバーハング状とすると、これら係止鉤部を係合させるには、このオーバーハング分だけ余分に嵌合部材を近接させなければならず、作業性が損なわれる。特に、油圧システムの配管要素の接続装置ののように、シールと付勢の作用を兼用した金属製のリップ部を備えた付勢部材を使用したような場合には、その弾性変形のストロークが小さいとともに、弾性力も大きいので、接続作業が面倒となる。
【０００８】
この係止鉤部の係合面をオーバーハング状とせず、周方向に沿った面、すなわちオーバーハング無し、とすれば、接続作業は容易となる。また、このように構成しても、前述のように、この接続装置の振動等による緩みは防止することができる。
【０００９】
しかしながら、航空宇宙用の油圧その他の配管要素の接続装置のように、強い振動や過酷な条件に晒され、かつ高い信頼性を要求されるものでは、より高い緩み防止の対策が必要となる。
【００１０】
また、上記のような特別な接続装置に限らず、一般的に係止鉤部のオーバーハングを強くすれば緩み止めの効果は大きくなるが、その反面で接続の際の操作性が低下する等、緩み止めと接続作業の容易性とは相反する関係にある。
【００１１】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
本発明は、以上の事情に基づいてなされたもので、構造が簡単であるとともに接続作業の際の操作性が良く、かつ係合に緩み等を生じることがなく、信頼性の高い接続装置を提供することを目的とするものである。
【００１２】
【課題を解決するための手段】
請求項１に記載の本発明は、互いに接続すべき第１および第２の２つの部材を対向させた状態で接続する接続装置であって、上記の第１および第２の部材の端部に夫々設けられた環状の本体部を有しており互いに相補形に嵌合する同じ形状の第１および第２の嵌合部材を備えている。第１および第２の嵌合部材の夫々は、本体部の先端面から軸方向に突設された複数の嵌合突部と、これら嵌合突部の間に形成され相手方の嵌合部材の複数の嵌合突部と周方向に所定の隙間を形成した状態で軸方向に嵌合し第１および第２の嵌合部材の互いの周方向への所定角度の回動を許容する複数の嵌合凹部と、上記の嵌合突部の一側面に周方向に突出して形成され、上記の第１および第２の嵌合部材が相対的に周方向に回動することにより係合して上記の第１および第２の嵌合部材が互いに軸方向に離間する方向の移動を規制する係合面を有している係止鉤部と、を含んでいる。上記接続装置はさらに、上記の第１および第２の嵌合部材の係止鉤部の係合面が互いに係合した状態で上記の第１および第２の嵌合部材を互いに軸方向に離間させる方向に付勢して上記の第１および第２の嵌合部材の係止鉤部の係合面の係合状態を維持させる付勢手段を備えている。上記の係止鉤部の係合面は、係合面に上記の第１および第２の嵌合部材が互いに軸方向に離間する方向の負荷が作用しない場合には、上記周方向に沿って延びている一端縁を有している。そして、上記の係止鉤部が、係合面に上記の第１および第２の嵌合部材が互いに軸方向に離間する方向の負荷が作用した場合には、上記の第１の嵌合部材の上記の係止鉤部の上記周方向における係合面の先端縁部に押された上記の第２の嵌合部材の上記の係止鉤部の上記周方向における係合面の根元部が上記の第１の嵌合部材の上記の係止鉤部の上記係合面の上記先端縁部の押圧方向に変形するとともに、上記の第２の嵌合部材の上記の係止鉤部の上記周方向における係合面の先端縁部に押された上記の第１の嵌合部材の上記の係止鉤部の上記周方向における係合面の根元部が上記の第２の嵌合部材の上記の係止鉤部の上記係合面の上記先端縁部の押圧方向に変形する、ことを特徴とする。
【００２０】
【発明の実施の形態】
以下、図を参照して本発明の実施形態を説明する。図１ないし図３には本発明の第１の実施形態を示し、このものは、接続すべき２つの部材としてたとえば航空機の油圧システムの配管要素の接続装置等、高い信頼性を要求される接続装置に適したものである。
【００２１】
図中の１ａ，１ｂは接続すべき第１および第２の配管要素であって、この実施形態の場合には油圧配管である。この第１の配管１ａ、第２の配管１ｂは同径のものであるが、もちろん、径の相違する配管を接続する場合、または他の配管要素を接続する場合でも同様である。
【００２２】
また、図中の２はこれらの配管１ａ，１ｂを突き合せた状態で接続するための嵌合部材である。この実施形態の場合には、これら嵌合部材２は互いに相補形に嵌合する同じ形状のものである。
【００２３】
この嵌合部材２は、環状の本体部３を有し、その先端面からは複数、この実施形態の場合には６個の嵌合突部８が一体に突設され、またこれらの嵌合突部８の間には嵌合凹部７が形成されている。これら嵌合部材２は、上述の如く相補形であるので、上記の嵌合突部８は、相手方の嵌合部材２の嵌合凹部７内に軸方向に嵌合するものであるが、周方向には所定の隙間が形成され、これら嵌合部材２は互いに周方向に所定角度だけ回動自在となっている。
【００２４】
また、上記の各嵌合突部８の一側面には、それぞれ係止鉤部９が形成されており、これら係止鉤部９は、相手方の嵌合部材２の嵌合突部８の係止鉤部９に互いに周方向に沿って係合し、これら嵌合部材２が互いに軸方向に離反する方向の移動を規制する。なお、これらの係止鉤部９の形状等は後述する。
【００２５】
なお、上記の嵌合突部８は、先端側に向かって周方向の幅が狭くなるようなテーパ状の形状をなしており、互いの嵌合が容易となるように構成されている。また、その一側面、すなわち上記の係止鉤部９が形成されている側面は、軸方向に沿っている。
【００２６】
また、上記の第１および第２の配管１ａ，１ｂの先端部には、それぞれ付勢部材１０が設けられている。この実施形態の場合には、これらの付勢部材１０は上記の配管１ａ，１ｂの先端部に一体に形成されている。
【００２７】
この付勢部材１０は、弾性を有する金属材料で形成され、先端側に突出した円錐形のリップ部１２を備えている。そして、これらリップ部１２が互いに軸方向に押圧されることにより、これらリップ部１２は図２に示すように弾性変形し、その弾性力によりこれら配管１ａ，１ｂを互いに軸方向に離間させるように付勢する。
【００２８】
なお。この実施形態の場合には、これらの付勢部材１０のリップ部１２が密接することにより、これらの間で液密または気密を維持するように構成されており、したがってこの実施形態の場合には、これらの付勢部材１０はこれらの配管１ａ，１ｂの間の密封を維持するシール部材として兼用されている。
【００２９】
また、上記の配管１ａ，１ｂの端部の外周には、段部１１が形成されており、前記の嵌合部材２の環状の本体部３はこの段部１１に嵌合している。したがって、これらの嵌合部材２は、これらの配管１ａ，１ｂの端部に回動自在でかつ先端部側への軸方向の移動を規制して取り付けられている。
【００３０】
このような接続装置により配管１ａ，１ｂを接続する場合には、まず配管１ａ，１ｂの端部および嵌合部材２を互いに同軸状に対向させる。そして、嵌合部材２を互いに近接させ、それらの嵌合突部８を嵌合凹部７内に軸方向に嵌合させる。また、これとともに、配管１ａ，１ｂの端部は互いに近接し、その先端部の付勢部材１０のリップ部１２が当接する。
【００３１】
そして、この状態からさらに嵌合部材２を近接させることにより、上記のリップ部１２が図２に示すように弾性変形して密着し、シール性を発揮する。そして、この状態で上記の嵌合部材２を相対的に回動させると、各嵌合突部８の係止鉤部９が互いに軸方向に係合し、これら嵌合部材２および配管１ａ，１ｂが離間するような軸方向の移動を規制する。
【００３２】
この場合に、上記の付勢部材１０のリップ部１２の弾性力により、上記の嵌合部材２が互いに離反する方向に強く付勢される。この荷重は、係止鉤部９の係合面に作用し、その摩擦力によりこれら嵌合部材２が互いに回動するのを規制し、この係止鉤部９の係合解除を防止する。このようにして、図２に示すように、これら配管１ａ，１ｂの接続が完了する。なお、この接続装置の接続を解除する場合には、上記と逆の操作をおこなう。
【００３３】
なお、この接続状態でこの接続装置の部分に振動等が作用した場合に、各部の慣性力により、嵌合部材２が互いに回動する方向の荷重が作用する。そして、この振動が強い場合には、前記のように、係止鉤部９の係合面が回動方向すなわち周方向に微小距離だけ相対的に移動する場合がある。
【００３４】
しかし、この実施形態では、上記の係止鉤部９の係合は、周方向に沿った方向の係合であるため、これら係止鉤部９がより強く係合する方向の摩擦力と、これら係止鉤部９の係合が解除される方向の摩擦力は互いに等しい。そして、前述のように、振動による慣性力は、これら嵌合部材２の正逆両方向の回動方向について等しい。よって、従来の螺子の締結にように、摩擦力に方向性がなく、これら係止鉤部９の係合が振動等により不所望に緩むことはなく、信頼性が高い。
【００３５】
また、この実施形態のものは、構造が簡単でコストが低いとともに、接続や接続解除の操作が簡単である。また、振動等による緩みがないので、従来の螺子による締結の場合のようにセフティワイヤ掛け等を必要としない。
【００３６】
なお、上記のような接続操作は、手作業でも可能であるが、作業をより容易とするために、図７および図８に示すような接続工具が使用される。この接続工具は、回動自在に枢着された一対のレバー５１を備えている。そして、これらのレバー５１の先端にはホルダー部材５２，５３が取り付けられている。
【００３７】
一方のホルダー部材５３内には内筒５４が設けられ、この内筒５４の外周面にはたとえば逆ねじの螺条５６が形成され、上記のホルダー部材５３の内面の雌螺子（図示せず）と螺合している。そして、この内筒５４の先端部には、ホルダー部５５が形成されている。また、上記の内筒５４は、板ばね５７およびピン５８により付勢されており、この内筒５４が回動した際に元の回動位置まで戻すように付勢されている。
【００３８】
なお、上記のホルダー部材５２，５３、内筒５４、ホルダー部５５等は、図８に示すように円環の一部を切除した形状をなしており、側方からこの接続装置の嵌合部材２に嵌合可能となっている。
【００３９】
このような接続工具５０を使用して接続作業をする際には、この接続工具５０のホルダー部材５２およびホルダー部５５を嵌合部材２の背面側に嵌合させ、レバー５１を握ることにより、これら嵌合部材２を強い力で互いに近接させることができる。そして、このような軸方向の押圧力により、上記の内筒５４が回動し、嵌合部材２を相対的に回動させ、係止鉤部９が自動的に係合する。なお、接続が完了してこのレバー５１の押圧を解除すると、内筒５４は板ばね５７により元の位置まで回動する。
【００４０】
このような接続工具５０を使用することにより、前記の付勢機構１０のリップ部１２の弾性力が強い場合でも、この接続装置を容易に接続することができる。なお、この接続装置の取り外しの場合には、上記の内筒の螺条の方向が逆の工具を使用することができる。
【００４１】
また、この実施形態では、係止鉤部９の形状について、緩みをより確実に防止し、かつ接続の際の作業性を良好にするため、図３に示すような形状に構成されている。なお、この図３には、その中央部に嵌合突部８を軸方向から見た正面図を示し、その左側には外側から見た側面図、右側には内側から見た側面図を示す。
【００４２】
まず、前述したように、上記の係止鉤部９の係合の緩みを防止するには、この係止鉤部９の係合面が、その先端縁が基端側に位置するように傾斜した形状、すなわちオーバーハング状をなしていることが好ましい。このようなオーバーハング状の係止鉤部９が係合すると、付勢機構１０の軸方向の付勢力により、これらの係止鉤部９が噛み合う状態となり、緩みを防止できる。
【００４３】
しかし、これらの係止鉤部９を上記のようなオーバーハング状とすると、これら係止鉤部９を係合させるには、このオーバーハング分だけ余分に嵌合部材２を近接させなければならず、作業性が損なわれる。特に、この実施形態のように、金属製のリップ部１２を備えた付勢部材１０を使用したような場合には、その弾性変形のストロークが小さいとともに、弾性力も大きいので、接続作業が面倒となる。
【００４４】
この係止鉤部９の係合面をオーバーハング状とせず、周方向に沿った面とすれば、接続作業は容易となる。また、このように構成しても、前述のように、この接続装置の振動等による緩みは防止することができる。
【００４５】
しかしながら、航空宇宙用の油圧その他の配管要素の接続装置のように、強い振動や過酷な条件に晒され、かつ高い信頼性を要求されるものでは、より高い緩み防止の対策が必要となる。
【００４６】
この実施形態では、上記の条件を満足するため、この係止鉤部９は以下のように構成されている。すなわち、この係止鉤部９には、鉤状部の根元の応力集中を緩和させるために、円筒面からなる湾曲部２０が形成されている。そして、この実施形態では、この湾曲部２０が嵌合部材２の軸方向および周方向の両方向に対して傾斜して形成されている。そして、好ましくは、この係止鉤部９の係止面の先端縁２３は、周方向に沿うように上記の軸方向および周方向に対する傾斜角度等が設定されている。
【００４７】
このような構成により、この湾曲部２０の一端縁２２においては、この縁、すなわち係合面の縁は周方向に沿っており、オーバーハング状とはなっていない。また、他の部分では、この湾曲部２０の傾斜により、この係止鉤部９の係合面は前述したようなオーバーハング状となり、この湾曲部２０の他端縁１に近づくに従って、このオーバーハング量は大きく、すなわちオーバーハングは強くなる。
【００４８】
このような形状の係止鉤部９が互いに係合する場合には、上記の一端縁２２が相手の嵌合突部８の係止鉤部９の先端縁２３と接触する。この一端縁２２と先端縁２３とは、直交しているので、これらの縁の交点は点接触となる。そして、上記の一端縁２２は、周方向に沿っているので、これらの係止鉤部９は、周方向に沿って相対的に移動しながら係合する。よって、前述のようにこの係止鉤部をオーバーハング状とした場合のように、嵌合部材２を余分に近接させる必要はなく、接続作業が容易となる。
【００４９】
そして、これらの係止鉤部９が互いに係合した状態で前記の付勢機構１０による荷重、または配管１ａ，１ｂの内圧による軸方向の荷重が作用すると、上述したような一端縁２２と先端縁２３の点接触の部分は容易に弾性変形、または塑性変形し、これら一端縁２２以外の部分の係合面が係合する。
【００５０】
前述したように、上記の湾曲部２０の傾斜によって、この一端縁２２以外の部分はオーバーハング状となっているために、これらの部分が係合することにより、互いに噛み合った状態となり、これらの係止鉤部９の係合の緩みをより確実に防止することができる。
【００５１】
なお、図３においては、理解を容易にするために、上記の湾曲部２０の傾斜角度を大きく描いてあるが、実際の製品では、この傾斜角度は僅かでよい。そして、上記の付勢部材１０の弾性力による荷重、または配管１ａ，１ｂの内圧による軸方向の荷重により、上記の一端縁２２の部分から順次変形しながらこの係止鉤部９の係合面が全面的に接触、係合するように設計することが好ましい。また、この係止鉤部９の全面が接触した状態においても、一端縁２２の部分、すなわち最も応力の大きい部分において塑性変形が生じないように設計することが好ましい。このような設計は、この嵌合部材２の材料の物性、荷重下における変形の解析、その他の条件から、上記のような好ましい設計を行うことができる。
【００５２】
なお、上記の係止鉤部９の形状、構成は上記の実施形態のものには限定されない。たとえば、図４には、本発明の第２の実施形態における係止鉤部９の形状を示し、この図４は図３に対応した図で、図３と同様に嵌合突部８の正面図、外側および内側から見た側面図を示す。
【００５３】
この実施形態のものは、嵌合突部８の側面に円筒面またはテーパの付された円筒面等から構成された切除溝２５を斜めに形成したものである。この切除溝２５は、応力集中を防止するため、その一端部に向けて次第に浅くなって消滅しており、他端部は、この係止鉤部９の係合面に達している。
【００５４】
従って、この切除溝２５の達している部分２７では、この係止鉤部９の係合面はオーバーハング状に形成されている。また、この切除溝２５の達していない部分２６では、この係合面は周方向に沿った平面状に形成されている。なお、この部分２６の幅は、この係止鉤部９の全幅の半分以上の幅に設定されている。
【００５５】
このような係止鉤部９が互いに係合すると、切除溝２５の達していない部分２６の係合面、すなわち平面状の係合面同士が、中央部において相手方の係止鉤部９の達していない部分２６と重複する。従って、この中央部の重複した部分で、これら係止鉤部９は周方向に沿って案内され、容易に係合する。
【００５６】
そして、この係合状態にある係止鉤部９に前述のような荷重が作用すると、この中央部の重複した部分が変形し、その両側の切除溝２５の達している部分２７すなわちオーバーハング状の部分が順次接触嵌合してゆき、これらのオーバーハング状の部分が噛み合い、この係止鉤部９の係合の緩みを防止する。
【００５７】
なお、この実施形態の係止鉤部９の構成は、上記の点以外は前記の第１の実施形態と同様の構成であり、また各部の変形、接触の態様も前記の第１の実施形態の場合と同様に設計される。
【００５８】
また、図５には、第３の実施形態における係止鉤部９の構成を示す。このものは、嵌合部材２がアルミニウム合金等、比較的弾性係数の小さい材料、すなわち比較的変形しやすい材料で形成されている場合に適したものである。
【００５９】
この実施形態のものは、係止鉤部９の係合面９ａは周方向に沿った平面状をなしている。したがつて、この係止鉤部９は、周方向に沿って相対的に移動して係合する。
【００６０】
そして、この嵌合突部８の前端面は、高周波焼入れ、その他の表面処理などにより、表面部分のみが硬化され、硬化層３０が形成されている。したがって、これらの係止鉤部９が係合した状態で前述のような荷重が作用すると、この係止鉤部９の係合面９ａが変形するが、上記の硬化層３０の部分は変形し難いので、結果的にこの係合面９ａはオーバーハング状に変形した状態で噛み合う。よって、この係止鉤部９に緩みをより効果的に防止することができる。
【００６１】
この実施形態のものは、係止鉤部９の形状が単純であり、加工が容易でコストを低減することができる。なお、上記の点以外は、この第３の実施形態のものは、前述の第１の実施形態のものと同様である。
【００６２】
また、図６には本発明の第４の実施形態における係止鉤部９の構成を嵌合突部８の正面図および断面図で示す。このものは、嵌合部材２が合成樹脂材料等、軟質で変形しやすい材料で形成されている場合に適するものである。
【００６３】
この実施形態のものは、係合鉤部９の係合面９ａは、周方向に沿った平面で構成されている。そして、この嵌合突部８の前面部の内部には、インサート部材４０が一体的に埋設されている。このインサート部材４０は、硬質の材料、たとえば鋼材で形成された板状のものである。そして、その先端部４１は係止鉤部９の係合面の先端縁部に刃状に露出している。なお、このインサート部材４０には、複数の取付孔４２が形成され、これらの取付孔４２内に樹脂材料が充填され、この嵌合突部８内への埋設強度を高めるように構成されている。
【００６４】
この実施形態のものは、前述の第３の実施形態と同様に、係止鉤部９が係合した状態で荷重が作用すると、係合面９ａの部分が変形するが、インサート部材４０は変形しないため、結果的にこの係合面９ａはオーバーハング状に変形した状態で噛み合う。よって、この係止鉤部９に緩みをより効果的に防止することができる。
【００６５】
この実施形態のものは、嵌合部材を射出成形する際に、上記のインサート部材４０を係止鉤部９の近傍に埋設するだけで製造でき、コストを低減することができる。なお、上記の点以外は、この第４の実施形態のものは、前述の第１の実施形態のものと同様である。
【００６６】
なお、本発明は上記のような油圧システムの配管要素の接続装置に限らず、その他の接続装置にも適用できる。たとえば、図９ないし図１１には、本発明の第５の実施形態を示す。このものは、本発明を消防ホースの接続装置すなわち結合金具に適用したものである。
【００６７】
図中の１ａ，１ｂは接続すべき消防ホースで、それらの先端部には結合金具本体２ａ，２ｂが取り付けられている。これらの結合金具本体２ａ，２ｂは、嵌合部材３を備え、その後端部内周面には、図１０に示すように鋸歯状のホース取付部４が設けられ、消防ホース１ａ，１ｂはこの内部に挿入され、この消防ホースの端部内に圧入された取付リング（図示せず）により圧着され、取付られる。
【００６８】
そして、これらの嵌合部材３の先端部からは、前述した実施形態と同様の構成の嵌合突部８が突設され、またこれらの嵌合突部８の側面には係止鉤部９が形成されている。そして、これらの係止鉤部９の係合面が前述と同様に互いに周方向に係合して軸方向の移動を規制し、これらの嵌合部材３の結合をなす。
【００６９】
また、この実施形態では、嵌合部材３の先端部に合成ゴム等の弾性材料で形成されたシール部材６が設けられ、これらが当接することによりシール性を維持する。また、この実施形態では、各嵌合突部８の背面側にそれぞれ付勢手段、すなわち付勢機構６０が設けられている。
【００７０】
これらの付勢機構６０は、図１１に示すように、ケース部材６４内に鋼球６５およびこれを付勢するスプリング６６を収容したボールプランジャの構造をなしている。そして、図１１に示すように、上記の嵌合突部８が嵌合し、かつ係止鉤部９が互いに係合した場合に、これらの付勢機構６０の鋼球６５が互いに当接して押し合い、これらの嵌合部材３を互いに軸方向に付勢するとともに、周方向にも互いに回動するように付勢し、これらの付勢力で上記の係止鉤部９の係合を維持するように構成されている。
【００７１】
そして、この実施形態では、図１１に示すように、上記の係止鉤部９の係合面は、無負荷の状態においても所定量のオーバーハング状に形成されている。そして、これらの係止鉤部９の係合面は、前述した第１ないし第４の実施形態に示されるように、軸方向の負荷が作用した場合に変形によりオーバーハング状に噛み合うような構造に形成されている。
【００７２】
この実施形態では、無負荷の初期状態においても係止鉤部９がある程度のオーバーハング状をなしているので、前記の付勢機構６０による付勢力だけでこれら係止鉤部９が互いに噛み合う状態に維持され、これらの係合の緩みが防止される。そして、ホースの内部に圧力が作用した場合には、これらの嵌合部材３は軸方向に離間するような大きな荷重が作用する。したがって、この荷重により係止鉤部９の係合面が前述のように変形してオーバーハング状に噛み合うので、より確実に係合の緩みを防止することができる。
【００７３】
なお、本発明は上記の実施形態にも限定されない。たとえば、係止鉤部の構成、形状は上記のような実施形態には限定されず、各種のものが採用できる。また、航空宇宙用等、特に高い信頼性が要求される用途以外のものでは、係止鉤部の係合面は周方向に沿った方向に係合する単純な形状のものでもよい。
【００７４】
また、上記の付勢部材は、前記の実施形態のものには限定されず、その他の任意の形状、構成のものが採用でき、必ずしも配管等の配管要素と一体のものでなくてもよく、別体のものでもよい。また、この付勢部材は必ずしもシール部材として兼用されるものには限定されず、付勢部材とシール部材は別体のものでもよい。
【００７５】
さらに、本発明は油圧システムの配管要素を接続するものに限らず、その他の任意の配管要素、またはその他の部材を接続するものに適用できることはもちろんであり、またこの接続装置の各部品の材料等も任意に選択することができる。
【００７６】
【発明の効果】
上述の如く本発明によれば、付勢手段や配管要素内の内圧、またはその他の過重による軸方向の負荷が作用した場合に、この係止鉤部の係合面が変形によりオーバーハング状に噛み合い、これらの係合の緩みを防止し、高い信頼性を得ることができる。
【００７７】
また、このものは、上記のように軸方向の負荷によりオーバーハング状に噛み合うので、これら係止鉤部の係合面のオーバーハング量をその分だけ小さくするか、またはオーバーハング量を零、すなわちオーバーハング無しとすることができ、接続の際の作業の容易性を損なうことがない等、その効果は大である。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】第１の実施形態の接続装置の接続解除状態の縦断面図。
【図２】第１の実施形態の接続装置の接続状態の縦断面図。
【図３】第１の実施形態の係止鉤部の正面図および側面図。
【図４】第２の実施形態の係止鉤部の正面図および側面図。
【図５】第３の実施形態の係止鉤部の断面図。
【図６】第４の実施形態の係止鉤部の正面図および断面図。
【図７】本発明の接続装置の接続作業に使用される接続工具の側面図。
【図８】図７の８−８矢視図。
【図９】第５の実施形態の接続装置の斜視図。
【図１０】第５の実施形態の接続装置の縦断面図。
【図１１】第５の実施形態の接続装置の嵌合突部と係止鉤部の部分の平面図。
【符号の説明】
１ａ，１ｂ配管
２嵌合部材
８嵌合突部
９係止鉤部
１０付勢部材
１２リップ部
６０付勢機構[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a two-member connection device such as a piping element having a simple structure and easy connection operation and having high reliability. More specifically, the present invention relates to an easy connection operation in a connection device in which locking hooks formed on side surfaces of fitting projections that are fitted together in the axial direction engage with each other to restrict movement in the axial direction. The connection apparatus which can maintain the engagement state of said latching hook part more reliably, without impairing property is provided.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, as a device for connecting two members, for example, piping elements of a hydraulic system, a joint device fastened by a screw has been widely used. Such a joint device has a simple structure, but has an essential defect such as loosening.
[0003]
That is, the fastening by the screw maintains this fastening state by the frictional force generated between the male screw and the female screw by the elastic force of each part generated by the fastening. When a vibration or the like acts on the screw in such a fastening state, the male screw and the female screw may be relatively rotated due to the inertial force of each part due to the vibration. In this case, the rotational resistance in the tightening direction of the screw is large, but the rotational resistance in the loosening direction is small. In general, the inertial force generated by vibration is the same in both forward and reverse directions. However, since the rotational resistance of the screw varies depending on the direction as described above, the rotational amount in the loosening direction tends to be larger. For this reason, when vibration or the like acts for a long period of time, the screw gradually loosens. Such fastening with screws is a common problem not only when connecting devices for piping elements but also when various members are fastened and connected with screws.
[0004]
In order to reduce such loosening of the screw, a spring washer is interposed, but the tendency of loosening of the screw cannot be essentially eliminated. Further, there is a measure to fix the screw with a safety wire after the screw is fastened, but this safety wire hanging work is troublesome and inefficient.
[0005]
In order to solve such a problem, a locking hook portion is formed on the side surfaces of the fitting protrusions that are axially fitted to each other, and the locking hook portion is engaged in the circumferential direction to move in the axial direction. A joint device that is regulated to be in a fastening state has been considered. In such a case, due to the friction of the engaging surfaces of these engaging hooks, the relative rotation of the fitting member is prevented and the fastening state is maintained. Therefore, the rotational resistance force can be made equal in both the forward and reverse directions. Since the inertial force generated by vibration is equal in both the forward and reverse directions as described above, there is no tendency for these fitting members to preferentially rotate in one direction due to vibration. Therefore, loosening due to vibration can be reliably prevented.
[0006]
However, in order to more reliably prevent loosening of the engagement of the locking hooks, the engagement surface of the locking hook is inclined so that the distal end edge is located on the proximal side, that is, over It is preferable that it is hung. When such an overhanging locking hook part is engaged, the engaging surfaces of these locking hook parts are engaged with each other by the urging force in the axial direction of the urging means such as a spring, so that loosening can be prevented. .
[0007]
However, if these locking hooks are in the overhang shape as described above, in order to engage these locking hooks, it is necessary to bring the fitting members close to each other by the amount of the overhang. Sexuality is impaired. In particular, when an urging member having a metal lip portion that serves both as a seal and an urging function is used, such as a connecting device for a piping element in a hydraulic system, the elastic deformation stroke is reduced. Since it is small and has a large elastic force, the connection work becomes troublesome.
[0008]
If the engagement surface of the locking hook is not overhanged, but is a surface along the circumferential direction, that is, no overhang, the connection work is facilitated. Even with this configuration, as described above, loosening due to vibration or the like of the connecting device can be prevented.
[0009]
However, in the case of equipment that is exposed to strong vibrations or severe conditions and requires high reliability, such as a connecting device for hydraulic and other piping elements for aerospace, higher measures for preventing loosening are required.
[0010]
Moreover, not only the special connection device as described above, but generally, if the overhang of the locking hook portion is strengthened, the effect of locking is increased, but on the other hand, the operability at the time of connection is reduced, etc. The loosening prevention and the ease of connection work are in conflict.
[0011]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The present invention has been made based on the above circumstances, and has a simple structure and good operability during connection work, and does not cause looseness in engagement, etc., and a highly reliable connection device. It is intended to provide.
[0012]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention according to claim 1 is a connection device for connecting the first and second members to be connected to each other in a state of being opposed to each other, at the end portions of the first and second members. Each of the first and second fitting members has the same shape and has an annular main body provided in a complementary manner . Each of the first and second fitting members includes a plurality of fitting protrusions protruding in the axial direction from the front end surface of the main body portion, and a mating fitting member formed between the fitting protrusions . more to allow a predetermined angle of rotation to each other's circumferential direction of a plurality of fitting protrusions and circumferentially engaged with the axial direction while forming a predetermined gap first and second engagement member and the fitting recesses, are formed to protrude on one side of the fitting projection in the circumferential direction, engages by first and second fitting members of the pivots relative circumferential direction The first and second fitting members include a locking collar portion having an engagement surface that restricts movement in a direction away from each other in the axial direction . The connection device further separates the first and second fitting members of said axially to each other in a state in which the engagement surface of the locking hook of the first and second fitting members of the are engaged with each other urges comprises a first and second biasing means Ru to maintain the engagement state of the engagement surface of the locking hook of the fitting member of the direction to be. When the load of the direction which the said 1st and 2nd fitting member mutually spaces apart to an engagement direction does not act on the engagement surface, the engagement surface of said latching hook part follows the said circumferential direction. It has an end edge that extends. Then, the above locking hook is, when the load of the direction in which the first and second engagement member the engaging surface is axially spaced from one another is applied, the first fitting member of the A base portion of the engagement surface in the circumferential direction of the locking collar portion of the second fitting member pushed by a tip edge portion of the engagement surface in the circumferential direction of the locking flange portion of the The first fitting member is deformed in the pressing direction of the distal end edge portion of the engagement surface of the locking collar portion of the first fitting member, and the locking collar portion of the second fitting member is The root portion of the engaging surface in the circumferential direction of the locking collar portion of the first fitting member pushed by the distal end edge of the engaging surface in the circumferential direction is the second fitting member. deformed in the pressing direction of the leading edge of the engagement surface of the locking hook, characterized in that.
[0020]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIGS. 1 to 3 show a first embodiment of the present invention, which is a connection requiring high reliability, for example, a connecting device for a piping element of an aircraft hydraulic system as two members to be connected. It is suitable for the device.
[0021]
Reference numerals 1a and 1b in the figure denote first and second piping elements to be connected, and in this embodiment, hydraulic piping. The first pipe 1a and the second pipe 1b have the same diameter, but of course the same applies when connecting pipes having different diameters or connecting other pipe elements.
[0022]
Reference numeral 2 in the figure denotes a fitting member for connecting the pipes 1a and 1b in a butted state. In the case of this embodiment, these fitting members 2 have the same shape that fits in a complementary manner.
[0023]
The fitting member 2 has an annular main body portion 3, and a plurality of fitting projections 8 are integrally projected from the front end surface, and in the case of this embodiment, these fitting projections 8 are integrally provided. A fitting recess 7 is formed between the protrusions 8. Since the fitting members 2 are complementary as described above, the fitting protrusion 8 is fitted in the fitting recess 7 of the mating fitting member 2 in the axial direction. A predetermined gap is formed in the direction, and the fitting members 2 are rotatable by a predetermined angle in the circumferential direction.
[0024]
Further, locking hooks 9 are formed on one side surface of each of the fitting protrusions 8, and these locking hooks 9 are engaged with the fitting protrusions 8 of the mating fitting member 2. The engaging members 9 are engaged with each other along the circumferential direction, and the fitting members 2 are restricted from moving in the direction away from each other in the axial direction. In addition, the shape of these latching hook parts 9 is mentioned later.
[0025]
Note that the fitting protrusion 8 has a tapered shape such that the width in the circumferential direction becomes narrower toward the distal end side, and is configured to be easily fitted to each other. Further, one side surface thereof, that is, the side surface on which the locking collar portion 9 is formed is along the axial direction.
[0026]
Further, urging members 10 are provided at the distal ends of the first and second pipes 1a and 1b, respectively. In the case of this embodiment, these urging members 10 are integrally formed at the distal ends of the pipes 1a and 1b.
[0027]
The urging member 10 is formed of an elastic metal material and includes a conical lip portion 12 protruding to the tip side. When the lip portions 12 are pressed in the axial direction, the lip portions 12 are elastically deformed as shown in FIG. 2, and the pipes 1a and 1b are separated from each other in the axial direction by the elastic force. Energize.
[0028]
Note that. In the case of this embodiment, the lip portions 12 of these urging members 10 are in close contact with each other so as to maintain liquid-tightness or airtightness between them. These urging members 10 are also used as seal members for maintaining a seal between the pipes 1a and 1b.
[0029]
Further, a step portion 11 is formed on the outer periphery of the end portions of the pipes 1 a and 1 b, and the annular main body portion 3 of the fitting member 2 is fitted to the step portion 11. Therefore, these fitting members 2 are attached to the end portions of the pipes 1a and 1b while being freely rotatable and restricting movement in the axial direction toward the tip end side.
[0030]
When connecting the pipes 1a and 1b with such a connecting device, first, the ends of the pipes 1a and 1b and the fitting member 2 are coaxially opposed to each other. Then, the fitting members 2 are brought close to each other, and the fitting protrusions 8 are fitted in the fitting recesses 7 in the axial direction. At the same time, the end portions of the pipes 1a and 1b are close to each other, and the lip portion 12 of the biasing member 10 at the tip end portion comes into contact therewith.
[0031]
Then, by further bringing the fitting member 2 closer from this state, the lip portion 12 is elastically deformed and brought into close contact as shown in FIG. And if said fitting member 2 is rotated relatively in this state, the latching hook part 9 of each fitting protrusion 8 will mutually engage an axial direction, and these fitting member 2 and piping 1a, The movement in the axial direction such that 1b is separated is restricted.
[0032]
In this case, the fitting member 2 is strongly biased in the direction away from each other by the elastic force of the lip portion 12 of the biasing member 10. This load acts on the engaging surface of the locking hook 9 and restricts the fitting members 2 from rotating due to the frictional force, thereby preventing the locking hook 9 from being disengaged. In this way, as shown in FIG. 2, the connection of these pipes 1a and 1b is completed. In order to release the connection of the connection device, the reverse operation is performed.
[0033]
In addition, when a vibration etc. act on the part of this connection apparatus in this connection state, the load of the direction in which the fitting member 2 rotates mutually acts by the inertial force of each part. And when this vibration is strong, as mentioned above, the engaging surface of the locking hook part 9 may move relatively by a minute distance in the rotation direction, that is, the circumferential direction.
[0034]
However, in this embodiment, since the engagement of the locking hooks 9 is an engagement in the direction along the circumferential direction, the frictional force in the direction in which the locking hooks 9 engage more strongly, The frictional forces in the direction in which the engagement of the engagement hooks 9 are released are equal to each other. As described above, the inertial force due to vibration is the same in both the forward and reverse rotation directions of the fitting member 2. Therefore, unlike the conventional screw fastening, there is no directionality in the frictional force, and the engagement of the locking hooks 9 is not undesirably loosened due to vibration or the like, and the reliability is high.
[0035]
Further, this embodiment has a simple structure and low cost, and is easy to connect and disconnect. Further, since there is no loosening due to vibration or the like, safety wire hooking or the like is not required as in the case of fastening with a conventional screw.
[0036]
The connection operation as described above can be performed manually, but a connection tool as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 is used to make the operation easier. This connection tool includes a pair of levers 51 pivotally attached to each other. Holder members 52 and 53 are attached to the ends of these levers 51.
[0037]
An inner cylinder 54 is provided in one holder member 53, and a thread 56 of, for example, a reverse screw is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner cylinder 54, and a female screw (not shown) on the inner surface of the holder member 53. Are screwed together. A holder portion 55 is formed at the tip of the inner cylinder 54. The inner cylinder 54 is urged by a leaf spring 57 and a pin 58, and is urged so as to return to the original rotation position when the inner cylinder 54 rotates.
[0038]
Note that the holder members 52 and 53, the inner cylinder 54, the holder portion 55 and the like have a shape in which a part of the ring is cut away as shown in FIG. 2 can be fitted.
[0039]
When performing a connection operation using such a connection tool 50, the holder member 52 and the holder portion 55 of the connection tool 50 are fitted to the back side of the fitting member 2, and the lever 51 is gripped. These fitting members 2 can be brought close to each other with a strong force. Then, the inner cylinder 54 is rotated by such an axial pressing force, the fitting member 2 is relatively rotated, and the locking collar portion 9 is automatically engaged. When the connection is completed and the lever 51 is released, the inner cylinder 54 is rotated to the original position by the leaf spring 57.
[0040]
By using such a connection tool 50, even when the elastic force of the lip portion 12 of the urging mechanism 10 is strong, the connection device can be easily connected. In the case of removing this connecting device, a tool having the reverse direction of the thread of the inner cylinder can be used.
[0041]
Moreover, in this embodiment, in order to prevent looseness more reliably about the shape of the latching hook part 9, and to make workability | operativity at the time of a connection favorable, it is comprised in the shape as shown in FIG. In addition, in this FIG. 3, the front view which looked at the fitting protrusion 8 from the axial direction in the center part is shown, the side view seen from the outside on the left side, and the side view seen from the inside on the right side .
[0042]
First, as described above, in order to prevent loosening of the engagement of the locking hook 9, the engaging surface of the locking hook 9 is inclined so that the distal end edge is located on the proximal side. It is preferable that the shape is an overhang. When such an overhanging locking hook portion 9 is engaged, the locking hook portions 9 are engaged with each other by the urging force of the urging mechanism 10 in the axial direction, and loosening can be prevented.
[0043]
However, if these locking hooks 9 are in an overhang shape as described above, the engagement members 2 must be brought close to each other by an amount corresponding to the overhangs in order to engage the locking hooks 9. Therefore, workability is impaired. In particular, when the urging member 10 having the metal lip portion 12 is used as in this embodiment, the stroke of the elastic deformation is small and the elastic force is large, so that the connection work is troublesome. Become.
[0044]
If the engagement surface of the latching flange portion 9 is not an overhang, but a surface along the circumferential direction, the connection work is facilitated. Even with this configuration, as described above, loosening due to vibration or the like of the connecting device can be prevented.
[0045]
However, in the case of equipment that is exposed to strong vibrations or severe conditions and requires high reliability, such as a connecting device for hydraulic and other piping elements for aerospace, higher measures for preventing loosening are required.
[0046]
In this embodiment, in order to satisfy the above-described conditions, the locking collar 9 is configured as follows. That is, the latching flange 9 is formed with a curved portion 20 having a cylindrical surface in order to relieve stress concentration at the base of the flange. In this embodiment, the curved portion 20 is formed to be inclined with respect to both the axial direction and the circumferential direction of the fitting member 2. Preferably, the tip edge 23 of the locking surface of the locking collar 9 is set with the above-described axial direction and an inclination angle with respect to the circumferential direction so as to be along the circumferential direction.
[0047]
With such a configuration, at the one end edge 22 of the curved portion 20, the edge, that is, the edge of the engagement surface is along the circumferential direction, and is not in an overhang shape. In the other portions, due to the inclination of the curved portion 20, the engagement surface of the locking collar portion 9 becomes overhanged as described above, and as the other end edge 1 of the curved portion 20 is approached, the overhanging shape is increased. The hang amount is large, that is, the overhang becomes strong.
[0048]
When the locking hooks 9 having such a shape are engaged with each other, the one end edge 22 comes into contact with the leading edge 23 of the locking hook part 9 of the mating fitting protrusion 8. Since the one end edge 22 and the front end edge 23 are orthogonal to each other, the intersection of these edges is a point contact. And since said one end edge 22 is along the circumferential direction, these latching hook parts 9 engage, moving relatively along the circumferential direction. Therefore, it is not necessary to bring the fitting member 2 too close as in the case where the locking hook portion is in an overhang shape as described above, and the connection work is facilitated.
[0049]
When the load by the urging mechanism 10 or the axial load due to the internal pressure of the pipes 1a and 1b is applied in a state in which these locking hooks 9 are engaged with each other, the one end edge 22 and the tip end as described above The point contact portion of the edge 23 is easily elastically deformed or plastically deformed, and the engaging surfaces of the portions other than the one end edge 22 are engaged.
[0050]
As described above, since the portion other than the one end edge 22 is overhanged due to the inclination of the curved portion 20, the portions are engaged with each other, and these portions are engaged with each other. The loosening of the engagement of the locking collar 9 can be prevented more reliably.
[0051]
In FIG. 3, for easy understanding, the inclination angle of the bending portion 20 is drawn large, but in an actual product, this inclination angle may be small. Then, the engagement surface of the locking collar portion 9 is sequentially deformed from the portion of the one end edge 22 by the load due to the elastic force of the biasing member 10 or the axial load due to the internal pressure of the pipes 1a and 1b. Are preferably designed so that they are fully contacted and engaged. Further, it is preferable to design so that plastic deformation does not occur in the portion of the one end edge 22, that is, the portion having the greatest stress even in a state where the entire surface of the locking collar portion 9 is in contact. Such a design can be performed as described above from the physical properties of the material of the fitting member 2, analysis of deformation under load, and other conditions.
[0052]
Note that the shape and configuration of the locking collar 9 are not limited to those of the above embodiment. For example, FIG. 4 shows the shape of the locking collar 9 in the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a view corresponding to FIG. 3, and the front of the fitting protrusion 8 as in FIG. The figure shows a side view seen from outside and inside.
[0053]
In this embodiment, the cut groove 25 made of a cylindrical surface or a tapered cylindrical surface is formed obliquely on the side surface of the fitting protrusion 8. In order to prevent stress concentration, the cut groove 25 gradually disappears toward one end portion and disappears, and the other end portion reaches the engagement surface of the locking hook portion 9.
[0054]
Accordingly, in the portion 27 where the cut groove 25 has reached, the engagement surface of the locking collar 9 is formed in an overhang shape. Further, in the portion 26 where the cut groove 25 does not reach, the engagement surface is formed in a planar shape along the circumferential direction. The width of the portion 26 is set to a width that is at least half of the entire width of the locking collar portion 9.
[0055]
When such locking hooks 9 are engaged with each other, the engagement surfaces of the portion 26 where the cutting groove 25 does not reach, that is, the flat engagement surfaces, reach the other locking hook 9 at the center. It overlaps with the part 26 which is not. Accordingly, at the overlapping portion of the central portion, the locking collar portions 9 are guided along the circumferential direction and easily engaged.
[0056]
When the load as described above is applied to the locking collar 9 in this engaged state, the overlapping portion of the central portion is deformed, and the portions 27 reaching the cut grooves 25 on both sides, that is, overhanging shapes are formed. These portions are successively brought into contact with each other, and these overhang-like portions are engaged with each other to prevent loosening of the engagement of the locking collar portion 9.
[0057]
In addition, the structure of the latching hook part 9 of this embodiment is the same structure as said 1st Embodiment except said point, Moreover, the deformation | transformation of each part and the aspect of contact are also said 1st Embodiment. Designed in the same way as
[0058]
Moreover, in FIG. 5, the structure of the latching hook part 9 in 3rd Embodiment is shown. This is suitable when the fitting member 2 is formed of a material having a relatively small elastic coefficient, such as an aluminum alloy, that is, a material that is relatively easily deformed.
[0059]
In this embodiment, the engaging surface 9a of the locking collar 9 has a planar shape along the circumferential direction. Therefore, the locking collar 9 is relatively moved and engaged along the circumferential direction.
[0060]
And the front end surface of this fitting protrusion 8 is hardened only by the surface part by induction hardening, other surface treatments, etc., and the hardening layer 30 is formed. Therefore, when the above-described load is applied with these engaging hooks 9 engaged, the engaging surface 9a of the engaging hooks 9 is deformed, but the portion of the hardened layer 30 is deformed. Since it is difficult, as a result, the engaging surface 9a meshes in a state of being deformed into an overhang shape. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively prevent the locking collar portion 9 from loosening.
[0061]
The thing of this embodiment has the shape of the latching hook part 9 simple, can be processed easily and can reduce cost. Except for the above points, the third embodiment is the same as the first embodiment.
[0062]
FIG. 6 is a front view and a cross-sectional view of the fitting projection 8 showing the configuration of the locking collar portion 9 in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. This is suitable when the fitting member 2 is formed of a soft and easily deformable material such as a synthetic resin material.
[0063]
In this embodiment, the engagement surface 9a of the engagement flange 9 is constituted by a plane along the circumferential direction. And the insert member 40 is embed | buried under the inside of the front part of this fitting protrusion 8. As shown in FIG. This insert member 40 is a plate-shaped member formed of a hard material, for example, a steel material. And the front-end | tip part 41 is exposed to the front-end edge part of the engagement surface of the latching hook part 9 at blade shape. The insert member 40 is formed with a plurality of mounting holes 42, filled with a resin material in the mounting holes 42, and configured to increase the embedding strength in the fitting protrusion 8. .
[0064]
In this embodiment, as in the third embodiment described above, when a load is applied with the locking collar portion 9 engaged, the portion of the engaging surface 9a is deformed, but the insert member 40 is deformed. As a result, the engagement surface 9a meshes in a state of being deformed in an overhang shape. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively prevent the locking collar portion 9 from loosening.
[0065]
The thing of this embodiment can be manufactured only by embed | buying said insert member 40 in the vicinity of the latching hook part 9 when injection-molding a fitting member, and can reduce cost. Except for the above points, the fourth embodiment is the same as the first embodiment described above.
[0066]
In addition, this invention is applicable not only to the connection apparatus of the piping element of the above hydraulic systems but to other connection apparatuses. For example, FIGS. 9 to 11 show a fifth embodiment of the present invention. This is one in which the present invention is applied to a fire hose connecting device, that is, a fitting.
[0067]
Reference numerals 1a and 1b in the figure denote fire hoses to be connected, and fitting metal bodies 2a and 2b are attached to their tips. These coupling metal bodies 2a and 2b are provided with a fitting member 3, and a sawtooth hose mounting portion 4 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the rear end portion thereof as shown in FIG. Inserted into the end of the fire hose and press-fitted by an attachment ring (not shown) inserted into the end of the fire hose.
[0068]
And from the front-end | tip part of these fitting members 3, the fitting protrusion 8 of the structure similar to embodiment mentioned above protrudes, and the locking collar part 9 is provided in the side surface of these fitting protrusions 8. FIG. Is formed. Then, the engaging surfaces of these locking hooks 9 are engaged with each other in the circumferential direction in the same manner as described above to restrict the movement in the axial direction, and the fitting members 3 are coupled.
[0069]
Moreover, in this embodiment, the sealing member 6 formed with elastic materials, such as a synthetic rubber, is provided in the front-end | tip part of the fitting member 3, and a sealing performance is maintained when these contact | abut. Further, in this embodiment, an urging means, that is, an urging mechanism 60 is provided on the back side of each fitting protrusion 8.
[0070]
As shown in FIG. 11, these urging mechanisms 60 have a ball plunger structure in which a steel ball 65 and a spring 66 that urges the steel ball 65 are accommodated in a case member 64. Then, as shown in FIG. 11, when the fitting protrusions 8 are fitted and the locking collars 9 are engaged with each other, the steel balls 65 of these urging mechanisms 60 are brought into contact with each other. The fitting members 3 are pressed against each other in the axial direction, and are also urged so as to rotate in the circumferential direction, and the engagement of the above-described locking hook portion 9 is maintained by these urging forces. It is configured as follows.
[0071]
And in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the engaging surface of said latching hook part 9 is formed in the overhang shape of predetermined amount even in the no-load state. And, as shown in the first to fourth embodiments described above, the engagement surfaces of these locking hooks 9 are structured so as to engage with each other in an overhanging manner due to deformation when an axial load is applied. Is formed.
[0072]
In this embodiment, since the locking hooks 9 have a certain degree of overhang even in the initial state of no load, the locking hooks 9 are engaged with each other only by the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 60. And the loosening of these engagements is prevented. When pressure is applied to the inside of the hose, these fitting members 3 are subjected to a large load that is separated in the axial direction. Therefore, the engagement surface of the locking collar portion 9 is deformed as described above and meshes in an overhang shape by this load, so that the loosening of the engagement can be more reliably prevented.
[0073]
In addition, this invention is not limited to said embodiment. For example, the configuration and shape of the locking hook portion are not limited to the above embodiment, and various types can be adopted. Further, in applications other than applications that require particularly high reliability, such as for aerospace, the engagement surface of the locking collar may be of a simple shape that engages in the direction along the circumferential direction.
[0074]
In addition, the biasing member is not limited to that of the above-described embodiment, other arbitrary shapes and configurations can be adopted, and may not necessarily be integrated with piping elements such as piping, It may be a separate one. Further, the urging member is not necessarily limited to a member that is also used as a sealing member, and the urging member and the sealing member may be separated.
[0075]
Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to connecting the piping elements of the hydraulic system, but can be applied to other arbitrary piping elements or those connecting other members. Etc. can be arbitrarily selected.
[0076]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, when an axial load is applied due to the internal pressure in the urging means or the piping element, or other excessive load, the engagement surface of the engagement hook portion is deformed to be overhanged. Engagement and loosening of these engagements can be prevented, and high reliability can be obtained.
[0077]
In addition, since this is engaged in an overhang shape by an axial load as described above, the overhang amount of the engagement surface of these engagement hooks is reduced by that amount, or the overhang amount is zero, That is, there is no overhang, and the effect is great, such as not impairing the ease of work at the time of connection.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a connection device according to a first embodiment in a disconnected state.
FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of a connection state of the connection device according to the first embodiment.
FIGS. 3A and 3B are a front view and a side view of a locking collar portion according to the first embodiment. FIGS.
FIGS. 4A and 4B are a front view and a side view of a locking collar part according to a second embodiment. FIGS.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a locking collar portion according to a third embodiment.
FIGS. 6A and 6B are a front view and a cross-sectional view of a locking collar portion according to a fourth embodiment. FIGS.
FIG. 7 is a side view of a connection tool used for connection work of the connection device of the present invention.
8 is a view taken along arrow 8-8 in FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a connection device according to a fifth embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of a connection device according to a fifth embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a plan view of portions of a fitting protrusion and a locking hook portion of a connection device according to a fifth embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1a, 1b Piping 2 Fitting member 8 Fitting protrusion 9 Locking hook portion 10 Energizing member 12 Lip portion 60 Energizing mechanism

Claims

A connection device for connecting the first and second members to be connected to each other in a state of facing each other,
They comprise a first and second mating members of the same shape that fits into the first and second end portions respectively provided with mutually complementary has a main body portion of the annular member described above,
Each of the first and second fitting members is
A plurality of fitting protrusions protruding in the axial direction from the front end surface of the main body ,
The first and second fitting members are fitted in the axial direction with a predetermined gap formed in the circumferential direction with a plurality of fitting projections of the mating fitting member formed between the fitting projections . A plurality of fitting recesses that allow rotation of a predetermined angle in the circumferential direction of each other ;
Is formed to protrude on one side of the fitting projection in the circumferential direction, the first and engage the by first and second fitting members of the pivots relative circumferential direction A locking collar portion having an engagement surface for restricting movement in a direction in which the second fitting members are separated from each other in the axial direction;
Contains
The connecting device further includes
The first and second fitting members are biased in the axially spaced direction with the engaging surfaces of the locking collars of the first and second fitting members engaged with each other. Te comprise a first and second biasing means Ru to maintain the engagement state of the engagement surface of the locking hook of the fitting member of the above,
When the load of the direction which the said 1st and 2nd fitting member mutually spaces apart to an engagement direction does not act on the engagement surface, the engagement surface of said latching hook part follows the said circumferential direction. Has one extending edge,
When the load in the direction in which the first and second fitting members are separated from each other in the axial direction is applied to the engagement surface , the locking hook portion is configured to be the first fitting member. The base portion of the engagement surface in the circumferential direction of the locking collar portion of the second fitting member pushed by the distal end edge of the engagement surface in the circumferential direction of the locking flange portion is The circumferential direction of the locking hook portion of the second fitting member is deformed in the pressing direction of the tip edge portion of the engaging surface of the locking hook portion of the first fitting member. The base portion of the engagement surface in the circumferential direction of the locking collar portion of the first fitting member pushed by the distal end edge of the engagement surface is the above-mentioned second fitting member. Deformation in the pressing direction of the tip edge of the engagement surface of the locking collar,
A connection device characterized by that.

It said engagement surface of said locking barb, said tip edges from one edge along the circumferential direction except for the above one edge is the engaging hook portion toward the other end edge on the opposite side An inclined surface is formed in a direction toward the protruding end in the axial direction in the fitting protrusion formed.
The connection device according to claim 1.

The inclined surface of the engagement surface of the locking hook, the locking as the toward the other edge opposite tip edges from one edge along the circumferential direction except for said one edge In the fitting protrusion where the flange is formed, the fitting protrusion is inclined in the direction toward the protruding end and in the circumferential direction toward the root portion, and is spaced apart in the axial direction from the engagement surface. A bending portion that relaxes stress concentration at the root portion of the engagement surface when a load in a direction is applied;
The connection device according to claim 2.

The inclined surface of the engagement surface of the locking hook, the locking as the toward the other edge opposite tip edges from one edge along the circumferential direction except for said one edge A cutting groove formed by extending a part of the cylindrical surface with a taper formed in a direction toward the protruding end of the fitting protrusion in which the flange is formed,
The connection device according to claim 2 .

Said engagement surface of said locking hook, the hardness of the distal end portion is set higher than the hardness of the other portions,
The connection device according to claim 1 .

Wherein said locking hook engaging surface, the insert member to be higher than the hardness of the internal hardness of the other portions of the leading edge of the tip edge portion is embedded,
The connection device according to claim 1 .