JP7345171B2 - Check valve, pressure gauge with filling function - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a technique for filling air into a tire.

BACKGROUND ART Pressure gauges with a filling function (hereinafter simply referred to as "pressure gauges") that can both supply compressed air to tires to be filled and measure tire air pressure are known.

Generally, such a pressure gauge is supplied with compressed air to be supplied to the tire from a compressed air supply source, and the supplied compressed air is guided to the tire through an air flow passage provided within the pressure gauge. Fill the tire. Normally, the compressed air supplied from the compressed air supply source is blocked from being transmitted to the tires by the main valve, which is biased to the closed position by an elastic body such as a spring within the pressure gauge. By grasping or pushing a lever or push button provided on the pressure gauge, the main valve is moved from the closed position to the open position against the elastic force of the elastic body, thereby releasing the compressed air. Air is allowed to flow from the supply source to the tire, and the compressed air is transmitted (filled) to the tire.

On the other hand, when using a conventional pressure gauge with a filling function as described above, if the operator wishes to only measure tire air pressure without connecting the pressure gauge to a compressed air supply source, the operator operates the lever described above. By connecting the pressure gauge to the valve of the tire, the air pressure transmitted from inside the tire is measured by the pressure measurement unit provided in the pressure gauge. At this time, in order to accurately measure the air pressure inside the tire, the air pressure transmitted from the tire must be transmitted from the tire without leaking to the compressed air supply source through the air flow path in the pressure gauge. It is necessary for the compressed air to be transmitted to the pressure measuring section (in a state where it is blocked by the main valve and does not leak to the compressed air supply source side). Therefore, the pressing force of the elastic body that urges the main valve to the closed position is generally such that the air pressure transmitted from the tire generates a force that presses the main valve in the direction from the closed position to the open position. In the case of a pressure gauge having a valve configuration, the pressure gauge must be set to a strength that allows it to withstand pressure from the air pressure of the tire being measured and maintain the closed position.

For example, in the case of large truck tires, the air pressure inside the tire can exceed 1200 kPa, and it is necessary to bias the main valve toward the closed position so that it does not move to the open position even under such tire pressure. The required elastic force can even reach 80N. The main valve, which is biased toward the closed position by a strong elastic force, must be moved to the open position by the force of squeezing the lever against the elastic force, especially for women and elderly people who have weak grip strength. can be difficult. Additionally, even if the operator is able to temporarily move the main valve to the open position, filling a large tire typically takes several minutes, and the operator must By continuing to hold the lever, the main valve must be kept in the open position, which places a heavy burden on the operator's hands.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and is capable of moving the valve to the open position by manually operating it against the elastic force that urges the valve to the closed position, thereby discharging compressed air into the tire. To provide a pressure gauge with a filling function that allows even a weak operator to easily supply compressed air to tires.

In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention provides an air flow path that supplies compressed air output from a compressed air supply source toward a tire to be filled, and an air flow path that is provided in the air flow path, and It is elastically biased to a closed position that blocks air flow between the tire side and the compressed air supply source side, and the air pressure transmitted from the tire side through the air flow path is a predetermined pressure. a main valve that is pressed by the air pressure and retracts to an open position that allows movement of air between the air flow passage on the tire side and the air flow passage on the compressed air supply source side when the air pressure is equal to or higher than the air pressure; , a pressure measurement unit that measures the air pressure of the tire transmitted from the tire side via the air flow passage; and a pressure measurement unit that is provided between the main valve and the compressed air supply source in the air flow passage; a check valve that allows air to flow from the compressed air supply source to the main valve in the air flow passage and blocks air flow from the main valve to the compressed air supply source in the air flow passage; By receiving the operating force, the main valve is moved toward the open position against the elastic force that biases the main valve from the open position toward the closed position, and the A pressure gauge comprising a main valve opening/closing mechanism that allows air to flow from the main valve toward the tire, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than the upper limit of a measurable pressure range set in the pressure measurement section. The present invention relates to a pressure gauge characterized by low pressure.

According to the present invention, in the pressure gauge with a filling function, the valve is moved to the open position by manual operation against the elastic force biasing the valve to the closed position, and compressed air is supplied to the tire. It is possible to provide a pressure gauge with a filling function that allows even a weak operator to easily supply compressed air to tires.

1 is an external view showing an example of a pressure gauge according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is an overall sectional view of an example of a pressure gauge according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the detailed configuration of the main valve 101v of the gauge body 101 and the vicinity of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 and its operation. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the detailed configuration of the main valve 101v of the gauge body 101 and the vicinity of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 and its operation. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the detailed configuration of the main valve 101v of the gauge body 101 and the vicinity of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 and its operation. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the detailed configuration of the main valve 101v of the gauge body 101 and the vicinity of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 and its operation. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the specific structure and operation of one embodiment of a check valve. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the specific structure and operation of one embodiment of a check valve. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the specific structure and operation of one embodiment of a check valve. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the specific structure and operation of one embodiment of a check valve. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a check valve that employs a net-like member that allows air to flow as a regulating member. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a check valve that employs a net-like member that allows air to flow as a regulating member. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a check valve that employs a net-like member that allows air to flow as a regulating member. FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a plug including a flapper-type check valve.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

<Overall configuration>
FIG. 1 is an external view showing an example of a pressure gauge according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an overall sectional view of an example of a pressure gauge according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The pressure gauge 1 according to the present embodiment can both supply compressed air to tires of vehicles such as trucks and passenger cars that are to be filled, and measure the air pressure of the tires.

As shown in the figure, the pressure gauge 1 according to the present embodiment includes, for example, a gauge body 101, a pressure measuring section 102, a plug 103, a main valve opening/closing mechanism 104, a hose 105, and a chuck 106.

The pressure gauge 1 according to the present embodiment is filled with compressed air taken in from an external compressed air supply source (not shown) connected via a plug 103 through a gauge body 101, a hose 105, a chuck 106, etc. It is guided to the target tire and filled with compressed air.

Moreover, the pressure gauge 1 according to the present embodiment measures the tire air pressure transmitted from the tire via the chuck 106 and the hose 105 using the pressure measuring section 102 connected to the gauge body 101.

Each element constituting the pressure gauge according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

The gauge main body 101 includes, for example, an air flow path AP (FIG. 2), a main valve 101v (FIG. 2), a part of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 (FIG. 2), and the like. Further, the gauge body 101 has a grip portion 101g near the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104, which is used by an operator to hold and operate the pressure gauge 1. Details of the air flow path AP, the main valve 101v, and the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 will be described later.

The pressure measurement unit 102 is a mechanical air pressure measurement unit, and includes a piston (not shown) that receives the air pressure to be measured, and elastically receives the pressure received by the piston and converts it into displacement (for example, compression amount). It includes a compression spring (not shown) and a display section 102d that displays the amount of deformation of the compression spring as a measured value. Of course, the measurement principle of the pressure measuring section 102 is not limited to a mechanical type using a spring or the like, but it is also possible to employ a Bourdon tube type or digital type pressure measuring unit.

The pressure measuring unit 102 measures the tire air pressure transmitted from the tire side via the chuck 106, the hose 105, and an air flow path AP to be described later. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the measurable pressure range of the pressure gauge 1 according to the present embodiment is, for example, from a lower limit value of 0 kPa to an upper limit value of 1200 kPa. This indicates that the pressure gauge 1 according to the present embodiment is designed to be able to measure pressures up to 1200 kPa. The pressure measurement range by the pressure measurement unit 102 can be arbitrarily set according to measurement conditions.

The plug 103 communicates with a compressed air supply source via an air regulator (not shown). The air regulator reduces the pressure of compressed air supplied from the compressed air supply source based on a set value and outputs the reduced pressure to the plug 103.

3 to 6 are partial cross-sectional views showing the detailed configuration and operation of the main valve 101v and the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 of the gauge body 101. As shown in FIG. 3, the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 includes, for example, a handle portion 104h, a compression spring E1, a pressing rod 104n, a packing 104np1, and a packing 104np2.

The handle portion 104h is rotatably supported at one end 104he on the outer surface of the gauge body 101 around a predetermined fulcrum P1. Other parts of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 (compression spring E1, pressing rod 104n, packing 104np1, and packing 104np2) are arranged inside the gauge body 101, and the handle part 104h and other parts of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 are arranged in the gauge body 101. In conjunction with each other, the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 as a whole functions as a whole.

As shown in FIG. 3, the handle portion 104h is placed in the open state (the state shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) in its normal position due to the action of an elastic force in the direction of arrow Q of a compression spring E1 that biases the main valve 101v, which will be described later. When the operator grips the grip portion 101g and the handle portion 104 and applies an operating force F, they rotate toward the closed position in the direction of arrow U (FIG. 4).

The hose 105 is an air flow pipe that communicates the tire side end APt of the air flow path AP formed in the gauge body 101 with the chuck 106.

For example, the chuck 106 can adopt a so-called clip-type structure, and is connected to the valve of the tire to be filled by pinching the valve, so that the inside of the tire and the air flow path AP are in communication with each other. Fixed.

<Internal configuration>
The pressure gauge 1 includes an air flow path AP, a main valve 101v, a check valve 101z, and a part of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 therein.

The air flow path AP is a ventilation path that guides compressed air transmitted from a compressed air supply source toward a tire to be filled. In this embodiment, it is formed as a ventilation path extending from the plug-side end APp to the tire-side end APt of the gauge body 101 (FIG. 2). The air flow passage AP is divided into a first air flow passage AP1 formed in the grip portion 101g, which is the compressed air supply side, with the main valve 101v as a boundary, and a tire side that is the measurement target than the main valve 101v (i.e., A second air flow passage AP2 located on the opposite side of the first air flow passage AP1 with respect to the main valve 101v. The first air flow passage AP1, which is closer to the plug-side end APp than the main valve 101v in the air flow passage AP, is mostly formed inside the grip portion 101g. The first air flow path AP2 communicates with the pressure measuring section 102 via the inner space of the guide hole H.

The main valve 101v is provided in the air flow path AP and is elastically biased to the "closed position" by a compression spring E2, so that the air pressure transmitted from the tire side via the air flow path AP is equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure value. When this happens, it is pressed by the air pressure and moves in the direction of arrow K, retracting to the "open position".

Here, the "closed position" is a position in the air flow path AP that blocks air flow between "the tire side of the main valve 101v" and "the compressed air supply source side of the main valve 101v". (the position shown in FIG. 6, which will be described later), and the "open position" refers to the air flow path AP that is "closer to the tire than the main valve 101v" and the "compressed air supply source that is closer to the main valve 101v" in the air flow path AP. This position allows air to move between the two sides (the position shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, which will be described later).

Note that the closed position is not limited to the case where the air flow path AP is physically completely blocked, and a slight amount of compressed air can pass through as long as an unacceptable error occurs in the measurement accuracy by the pressure measurement unit 102. It may also include shutoff situations with some degree of leakage. In addition, the open position here refers to the position between the air flow path AP on the "tire side than the main valve 101v" and the "compressed air supply source side than the main valve 101v" in the air flow path AP. It is sufficient that air circulation is allowed, and the main valve 101v does not need to be completely retracted from the air flow path AP.

In the present embodiment, the "predetermined pressure value" is the upper limit value (i.e., 0 kPa to 1200 kPa in the examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) of the measurable pressure range set in the pressure measurement unit , 1200kPa). Specifically, the "predetermined pressure value" can be set to, for example, 200 kPa. This means that the elastic force of the compression spring E2 is 8.5N. That is, in this embodiment, the chuck 106 of the pressure gauge 1 is used to measure the tire air pressure when the operator is not gripping the handle portion 104h and the compressed air supply source is not connected to the plug 103. When connected to a tire valve, if the tire air pressure is below the measurable range of 1200kPa and exceeds 200kPa, the main valve 101v retreats to the open position (moves in the direction of arrow K shown in Figure 3). do).

The upper limit of the measurable pressure range of 1200 kPa set in the pressure measuring section 102 can be adopted, for example, in a pressure gauge with a filling function for large vehicles, but it can also be used, for example, in a pressure gauge with a filling function for ordinary vehicles. The upper limit of the measurable pressure range of the pressure measurement unit that is often employed is 600 kPa, and the "predetermined pressure value" in this case will be set lower than 600 kPa.

Furthermore, the "predetermined pressure value" in this embodiment is set lower than the maximum value of the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires that are measured by the pressure gauge according to this embodiment. Good too. In this case, the tire with the highest set pressure value among the tire group to be measured that must be able to be measured by the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment is connected to the chuck 106 and is not receiving pressure from the pressure supply source. In this situation, the main valve 101v may be opened due to the pressure of the tire.

For example, when the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment include tires for large vehicles, the set pressure value is the highest among the group of tires for large vehicles to be measured. The "predetermined pressure value" can be set to be lower than the actual pressure value.

Furthermore, the "predetermined pressure value" in this embodiment is set lower than the minimum value among the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires that are measured by the pressure gauge according to this embodiment. Good too. In this case, the tire with the lowest set pressure value among the tire group to be measured that must be able to be measured by the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment is connected to the chuck 106 and is not receiving pressure from the pressure supply source. In this situation, the main valve 101v may be opened due to the pressure of the tire.

For example, if the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment are a group of tires for regular vehicles, the most set pressure value among the group of tires for regular vehicles to be measured is The "predetermined pressure value" can also be set to be lower than a lower pressure value.

The check valve 101z is provided between the main valve 101v and the compressed air supply source in the air flow passage AP, allows air to flow from the compressed air supply source to the main valve 101v in the air flow passage AP, and prevents air flow. The flow of air from the main valve 101v in path AP toward the compressed air supply source is blocked.

The main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 resists the elastic force that biases the main valve 101v from the "open position" toward the "closed position" by receiving the operating force of the operator, and moves the main valve 101v to the "open position". ” to allow air to flow from the main valve 101v in the air flow path AP toward the tire.

The lever member 104h in the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 receives the operating force F from the operator's gripping motion, and moves the compression spring E1 that biases the pressing rod 101n and the main valve 101v from the open position to the closed position. The main valve 101v is moved to the "open position" against the resultant force of the elastic force of the compression spring E2 biased toward the main valve 101v. For example, according to the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment, the main valve 101v is moved to the "open position" against the elastic force that urges the main valve 101v from the "open position" to the "closed position". The gripping force required to do this is, for example, about 25N.

In this embodiment, the operation of the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 by the operator is a "gripping motion", and the lever member 104h that opens the main valve 101v by the operating force of the grasping motion is illustrated as an example. However, if the configuration is such that the main valve 101v is opened and closed by the manual operation force of the operator, the direction of the force applied to the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 and the operation force applied by the operator's operation are not limited to The shape and mechanism of the members can be changed as appropriate.

<Explanation of operation near the main valve>
FIG. 3 is a partially enlarged sectional view showing the positional relationship of each part in the pressure gauge according to the present invention when the lever member is in an open state.

The pressing rod 104n is a longitudinal member, and is supported so as to be slidable in the axial direction (horizontal direction in FIG. 3) within a guide hole H1 formed in the gauge body 101. Further, the pressing rod 104n is moved in the direction of the arrow Q shown in FIG. and is elastically biased. The space within the guide hole H1 communicates with a housing portion 101vw that houses a main valve 101v, which will be described later. When the pressing rod 104n is biased to the position shown in FIG. 3 by the compression spring E1, the packing 101np2 provided so as to surround the outer periphery near the center of the pressing rod 104n is attached to the cone-shaped inner periphery of the guide hole H1. This prevents the air on the main valve 101v side from leaking to the outside of the gauge body 101 through the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the pressing rod 104n and the inner peripheral surface of the guide hole H1.

When no operating force is applied to the handle portion 104h and the internal space of the guide hole H is kept airtight by the packing 101np2, air is removed from the tire via the chuck 106, the hose 105, and the first air flow path AP2. The transmitted pressure is transmitted to the pressure measurement unit 102 while maintaining the atmospheric pressure (transmission path indicated by a dotted line arrow in FIG. 3). As described above, the pressure gauge 1 according to the present embodiment is capable of measuring the air pressure of the tire to be measured when no operating force is applied to the handle portion 104h. In addition, in the state shown in FIG. 3, the end of the main valve 101v on the pressure rod 104n side is pressed against the inner surface of the housing portion 101vw in the direction of arrow Q by the compression spring E2, and is in the "closed position". This blocks the flow of air between the inside of the housing portion 101vw and the inside of the guide hole H1. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, when the operator's operating force is not applied to the hand portion 104h and the pressure measurement portion 102 starts measuring the air pressure of the tire to be measured, the main valve 101v is activated by the compression spring E2. It is in the "closed position" due to the pressing force.

FIG. 5 is a partially enlarged sectional view showing the positional relationship of each part in the pressure gauge according to the present invention when the lever member is in the middle of transitioning from the open state to the closed state. The operator applies an operating force F to the handle portion 104h that exceeds the elastic force of the compression spring E1 that biases the pressure rod 104n and the compression spring E2 that biases the main valve 101v from the "open position" to the "closed position". , the main valve 101v moves in the direction of arrow K. As shown in FIG. 5, when the main valve 101v is moved in the direction of the arrow K by the operating force F of the operator, the second air flow passage AP2 and the first air flow passage AP1 are connected to the guide hole H1 and the housing portion 101vw. This allows air to circulate through the air. That is, by being in the state shown in FIG. 5, air flows from the compressed air supply source to the tire via the first air flow path AP1, the housing portion 101vw, the guide hole H1, the second air flow path AP2, and the hose 105. This makes it possible to supply compressed air (transmission path indicated by a dashed-dotted line arrow in FIG. 3). Further, FIG. 6 shows a state in which the main valve 101v is retracted in the direction of arrow K due to the air pressure transmitted from the tire when the operator does not manually operate the handle portion 104h. In the example shown in FIG. 6, when the main valve 101v is retracted and moved toward the open position, the air pressure transmitted from the tire is transferred to the second air flow passage AP2, the housing portion 101vw, and the first air flow passage AP1. is transmitted to the check valve 101z via.

<Explanation of check valve>
7 to 10 are diagrams for explaining the specific structure and operation of one embodiment of the check valve. Specifically, the check valve 101z has an annular portion 101zw that partitions the inside of the air flow passage AP and has a through hole 101zh of a predetermined diameter, and a space in the air flow passage AP that is closer to the main valve 101v than the annular portion 101zw. An elastic body sphere 101zb made of rubber and having an outer diameter larger than the through hole 101zh is housed therein. Specifically, the inner diameter of the through hole 101zh is set to 4.5 mm, which is smaller than the outer diameter of the elastic sphere 101zb, which is 6 mm.

In this embodiment, a rubber ball is used as the elastic ball 101zb, but the material is not limited to this, and various materials that can realize the function of a check valve, including other materials, can be used. Adoptable. For example, a metal ball may be used instead of the elastic ball 101zb, and the surface of the portion of the annular portion 101zw that comes into contact with the metal ball may have elasticity, or it may function as a check valve even if the surface does not have elasticity. If this can be realized, the surface in contact with the metal ball can also be a metal surface.

Moreover, the outer diameter of the elastic body sphere 101zb is set such that the pressure applied to the elastic body sphere 101zb from the main valve 101v side exceeds the upper limit of the recommended pressure value set for the tire to be filled. Even in such a case, the size is set so that it does not pass through the through hole 101zh or fit into the through hole 101zh to the extent that it obstructs the supply of compressed air from the compressed air supply source side.

Moreover, the pressure gauge according to this embodiment further includes a regulating member E3. The regulating member E3 is, for example, a "double-ended conical spring" having a small outer diameter near both ends in the direction of the central axis of the helix, and is provided between the main valve 101v and the check valve 101z in the airflow passage AP, and has an elastic body 101zb. The movement is restricted so that the main valve 101v does not move more than a predetermined distance from the annular portion 101zw toward the main valve 101v. In the present embodiment, a portion of the outer circumference centered on the helical central axis of the regulating member E3 is a tapered inner circumferential surface of the first air flow passage AP1 whose inner circumferential diameter decreases as it approaches the main valve 101v side. By fitting in, the regulating member E3 is prevented from being displaced from the first air flow path AP1 toward the main valve 101v side in the direction of the helical center axis.

In the above example, a "double-end conical spring" with a small outer diameter near both ends in the direction of the helical center axis is used as the regulating member E3, but as a result, the elastic ball 101zb moves from the annular portion 101zw to the main valve 101v side. As long as the member can restrict its movement so that it does not move beyond a predetermined distance, it is possible to use, for example, a normal compression spring whose outer diameter in the direction of the helical center axis is substantially constant.

FIG. 8 is a partially enlarged sectional view showing a state of the check valve in a state where no pressure is transmitted to the pressure gauge from the tire or from the compressed air supply source. In the pressure state shown in the figure, the elastic body sphere 101zb is movably located in the space between the through hole 101zh and the regulating member E3.

FIG. 9 is a portion showing the state of the check valve 101z when the operator operates the lever member 104h and the main valve 101v is in the open position, and compressed air is being supplied from the compressed air supply source to the air flow path AP1. It is an enlarged sectional view. As shown in the figure, when compressed air is being supplied from the compressed air supply source to the air flow path AP1, the elastic sphere 101zb moves toward the main valve 101v side due to the pressure of the compressed air transmitted, and the regulation The end of the member E3 restricts movement toward the main valve 101v beyond the position of the end. As a result, the elastic body sphere 101zb moves toward the main valve 101v within the air flow path AP1 by the compressed air supplied from the compressed air supply source, and as a result, closes the vicinity of the main valve 101v of the air flow path AP1. It is possible to prevent such problems from occurring. Moreover, the inner diameter of the end of the regulating member E3 is set to be sufficiently smaller than the outer diameter of the elastic body 101zb so that the elastic body 101zb does not fit into the end of the regulating member E3.

FIG. 10 shows a state in which the chuck 106 of the pressure gauge according to this embodiment is connected to the tire valve, and the main valve 101v is opened only by the tire air pressure, with the operator not operating the lever member 104h. 7 is a partially enlarged sectional view showing the state of the check valve 101z when the check valve 101z is in the state shown in FIG. 6. FIG. As shown in the figure, as the pressure inside the tire is transmitted to the first air flow passage AP1, the elastic body sphere 101zb moves toward the annular portion 101zw, is pressed against the through hole 101zh, and is pressed against the through hole 101zh. Block 101zh. As a result, the pressure transmitted from the tire to the pressure gauge does not leak to the outside through the first airflow passage AP1 even when the main valve 101v is in the open position due to the tire pressure, and the pressure measurement unit 102 It is possible to stably measure tire air pressure.

In order to measure the tire air pressure using the pressure measurement unit, it is necessary to maintain the pressure on the tire side of the main valve in the air flow path equal to the tire air pressure. However, if the compressed air supply source is connected to the plug 103 If the check valve 101z is not installed and the main valve is opened due to the tire air pressure, the pressure in the air flow passage will leak through the main valve, making it impossible to accurately measure the tire air pressure. I can't. Therefore, in a conventional pressure gauge without the check valve 101z, the elastic force that urges the main valve from the open position to the closed position is the upper limit of the recommended pressure value set for the tire to be filled. By setting the value higher than the value, when measuring the tire air pressure, the pressure in the air flow passage closer to the tire than the main valve is kept equal to the tire air pressure.

On the other hand, according to the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment, the elastic force of the elastic means for biasing the main valve 101v to the closed position is lower than the pressing force due to the upper limit value of the measurable pressure range set in the pressure measuring section 102. Since the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 is set weakly, if the air flow path is connected to the tire without the operator operating the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104, the main valve 101v will automatically retreat to the open position depending on the tire air pressure. The tire air pressure is transmitted to the compressed air supply source side from the main valve 101v. However, since the check valve 101z is provided between the main valve 101v and the compressed air supply source, the space between the main valve 101v and the check valve 101z in the air flow path is kept equal to the tire air pressure, The tire air pressure can be measured by the pressure measuring unit 102.

On the other hand, when filling a tire with compressed air output from a compressed air supply source, the operator manually operates the main valve opening/closing mechanism 104 to open and close the main valve 101v, which is biased by a weak elastic force as described above. By retracting the main valve 101v to the open position, the main valve 101v is set to the open position, and pressure from the compressed air supply source can be transmitted to the tire side. Doesn't require a lot of force. This makes it possible to provide a pressure gauge that is easy to use, for example, even by women and elderly people with weak grip strength.

In addition, in the above-mentioned example, a case is illustrated in which a conical spring at both ends is employed as the regulating member E3 that regulates the movement of the elastic body sphere 101zb, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, as shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 Thus, it is also possible to configure a check valve 101z' that employs a net-like member 101zn that allows air circulation as the regulating member E3.

FIG. 11 is a partially enlarged sectional view showing a state of the check valve in a state where no pressure is transmitted to the pressure gauge from the tire or from the compressed air supply source. In the pressure state shown in the figure, the elastic body sphere 101zb is movably located in the space between the through hole 101zh and the net member 101zn.

FIG. 12 shows the state of the check valve 101z' when the operator operates the lever member 104h and the main valve 101v is in the open position, and compressed air is being supplied from the compressed air supply source to the air flow path AP1. FIG. 3 is a partially enlarged sectional view. As shown in the figure, when compressed air is supplied from the compressed air supply source to the air flow path AP1, the elastic body sphere 101zb moves toward the main valve 101v side due to the pressure of the transmitted compressed air, and the mesh-like The member 101zn restricts movement toward the main valve 101v beyond the position of the member. As a result, the elastic body sphere 101zb moves toward the main valve 101v within the air flow path AP1 by the compressed air supplied from the compressed air supply source, and as a result, closes the vicinity of the main valve 101v of the air flow path AP1. It is possible to prevent such problems from occurring.

FIG. 13 shows a state in which the chuck 106 of the pressure gauge according to this embodiment is connected to the tire valve, and the main valve 101v is opened only by the tire air pressure, with the operator not operating the lever member 104h. FIG. 7 is a partially enlarged sectional view showing the state of the check valve 101z' when the check valve 101z' is in the state shown in FIG. 6; As shown in the figure, as the pressure inside the tire is transmitted to the first air flow passage AP1, the elastic body sphere 101zb moves toward the annular portion 101zw, is pressed against the through hole 101zh, and is pressed against the through hole 101zh. Block 101zh. As a result, the pressure transmitted from the tire to the pressure gauge does not leak to the outside through the first airflow passage AP1 even when the main valve 101v is in the open position due to the tire pressure, and the pressure measurement unit 102 It is possible to stably measure tire air pressure.

Note that the check valve can also be a flapper type check valve, as shown in FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a sectional view of a plug 103'' equipped with a flapper-type check valve 101z''. The plug 103 is connected to the plug side end APp (check valve mounting part) with a screw. Specifically, the check valve 101z" shown in FIG. 14 has a pipe line forming a part of the air flow passage AP1 and a through hole 101zh, and the air flow passage on the air supply source side through the through hole 101zh. and an annular portion 101zw that communicates between the annular portion 101zw and the air flow path on the main valve 101v side, and a closed position (FIG. 14 A plate-like member 101zv is rotatably supported between a position shown by a solid line in FIG. Be prepared.

Also in the configuration shown in FIG. 14, when the operator operates the lever member 104h and the main valve 101v is in the open position and compressed air is being supplied from the compressed air supply source to the air flow path AP1, the compressed air to be transmitted The pressure causes the plate member 101zv to open toward the open position. The plate-like member 101zv as a valve body will not be plastically deformed or damaged even if the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment receives the maximum value among the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured. Instead, when the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment receives the minimum value of the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured, it functions as a check valve.

On the other hand, when the operator is not operating the lever member 104h, the chuck 106 of the pressure gauge according to the present embodiment is connected to the tire valve, and the main valve 101v is opened only by the tire air pressure (Fig. 6 In the state shown in ), the plate member 101zv is in the closed position and closes the through hole 101zh. As a result, the pressure transmitted from the tire to the pressure gauge does not leak to the outside through the first airflow passage AP1 even when the main valve 101v is in the open position due to the tire pressure, and the pressure measurement unit 102 It is possible to stably measure tire air pressure. Of course, the number of through holes provided in the annular portion 101zw is not necessarily limited to one, and a plurality of through holes may be provided.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the check valve is provided in the plug, but the check valve is not limited to this, and the check valve is provided somewhere in the air flow path between the main valve 101v and the compressed air supply source. For example, it may be provided in the airflow passage AP formed in the gauge body 101.

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the following pressure gauge can be provided.
(1) An air flow path that supplies compressed air output from a compressed air supply source toward the tire to be filled;
The air flow passage is provided in the air flow passage and is elastically biased to a closed position that blocks air flow between the tire side and the compressed air supply source side. When the air pressure transmitted through the compressed air is equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure value, it is pressed by the air pressure to allow air to move between the air flow path on the tire side and the air flow path on the compressed air supply source side. a main valve that retreats to an open position;
a pressure measuring unit that measures the air pressure of the tire transmitted from the tire side via the air flow path;
provided between the main valve and the compressed air supply source in the air flow passage, allowing air to flow from the compressed air supply source to the main valve in the air flow passage; a check valve that blocks the flow of air from the main valve toward the compressed air supply source;
By receiving the operating force of the operator, the main valve is moved toward the open position against the elastic force that biases the main valve from the open position toward the closed position, and the air flow is reduced. A pressure gauge comprising a main valve opening/closing mechanism that allows air to flow from the main valve toward the tire in the road,
The pressure gauge, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than an upper limit value of a measurable pressure range set in the pressure measurement section.
(2) The pressure according to (1), wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a maximum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. gauge.
(3) The pressure according to (1), wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a minimum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. gauge.
(4) The main valve opening/closing mechanism operates the main valve against an elastic force that urges the main valve from the open position to the closed position in response to the operating force generated by the operator's gripping action. The pressure gauge according to any one of (1) to (3), further comprising a lever member that moves the pressure gauge to the open position.
(5) The check valve has a through hole narrower than the inner diameter of the pipe line, and communicates the air flow path on the air supply source side with the air flow path on the main valve side via the through hole. (1), characterized in that it comprises an annular portion, and an elastic body sphere provided closer to the main valve than the annular portion in the air flow passage and having an outer diameter larger than the through hole. Pressure gauge.
(6) A regulating member that is provided between the main valve and the check valve in the air flow passage and regulates movement of the elastic body ball so that it does not move more than a predetermined distance from the annular portion toward the main valve. The pressure gauge according to (5), further comprising:
(7) The check valve is a flapper-type check valve, and the valve body is configured to measure the maximum value of the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires that the pressure gauge measures. The pressure gauge is characterized in that it does not undergo plastic deformation even when exposed to the pressure, and functions as a valve body even when the pressure gauge receives the minimum value of the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured. The pressure gauge described in 1).

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the following pressure gauge can be provided.
(8) an air flow path that supplies compressed air output from a compressed air supply source toward the tire to be filled;
The air flow passage is provided in the air flow passage and is elastically biased to a closed position that blocks air flow between the tire side and the compressed air supply source side. When the air pressure transmitted through the compressed air is equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure value, it is pressed by the air pressure to allow air to move between the air flow path on the tire side and the air flow path on the compressed air supply source side. a main valve that retreats to an open position;
a pressure measuring unit that measures the air pressure of the tire transmitted from the tire side via the air flow path;
provided between the main valve and the compressed air supply source in the air flow passage, allowing air to flow from the compressed air supply source to the main valve in the air flow passage; a check valve mounting part for mounting a check valve that blocks the flow of air from the main valve toward the compressed air supply source;
By receiving the operating force of the operator, the main valve is moved toward the open position against the elastic force that biases the main valve from the open position toward the closed position, and the air flow is reduced. A pressure gauge comprising a main valve opening/closing mechanism that allows air to flow from the main valve toward the tire in the road,
The pressure gauge, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than an upper limit value of a measurable pressure range set in the pressure measurement section.
(9) The pressure according to (8), wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a maximum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. gauge.
(10) The pressure according to (8), wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a minimum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. gauge.
(11) The main valve opening/closing mechanism operates the main valve against an elastic force that urges the main valve from the open position to the closed position in response to an operating force generated by the operator's gripping action. The pressure gauge according to any one of (8) to (10), further comprising a lever member that moves the pressure gauge to the open position.
(12) The check valve has a through hole narrower than the inner diameter of the pipe line, and communicates the air flow passage on the air supply source side with the air flow passage on the main valve side via the through hole. (8), characterized in that it includes an annular portion, and an elastic body sphere that is provided closer to the main valve than the annular portion in the air flow passage and has an outer diameter larger than the through hole. Pressure gauge.
(13) A regulating member that is provided between the main valve and the check valve in the air flow passage and restricts movement of the elastic body so that it does not move more than a predetermined distance from the annular portion toward the main valve. The pressure gauge according to (12), further comprising:
(14) The check valve is a flapper type check valve, and the valve body is configured to measure the maximum value of the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires that the pressure gauge measures. The pressure gauge is characterized in that it does not undergo plastic deformation even when exposed to the pressure, and functions as a valve body even when the pressure gauge receives the minimum value of the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured. 8) The pressure gauge described in 8).

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the following check valve can be provided.
(15) An air flow passage that supplies compressed air output from a compressed air supply source toward the tire to be filled; and an air flow passage provided in the air flow passage that connects the tire side and the compressed air supply source side. The tire is elastically biased to a closed position that blocks air flow between the tires, and is pressed by air pressure transmitted from the tire side through the air flow path when the air pressure is equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure value. a main valve that is retracted to an open position that allows air to move between the air flow passage on the tire side and the air flow passage on the compressed air supply source side; A pressure measurement unit that measures the air pressure of the tire transmitted from a main valve opening/closing mechanism that moves the main valve toward the open position and allows air to flow from the main valve toward the tire in the air flow passage; A check valve provided between the main valve and the compressed air supply source in the air flow path of a pressure gauge that is lower than the upper limit of a set measurable pressure range,
a tubular portion forming a conduit that allows air to flow from an opening at one end to an opening at the other end;
a valve body that allows air to flow from the compressed air supply source to the main valve in the pipe line and blocks air flow from the main valve to the compressed air supply source in the pipe line; Stop valve.
(16) The predetermined pressure value is lower than the maximum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. Stop valve.
(17) The predetermined pressure value is lower than the minimum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. Stop valve.
(18) The main valve opening/closing mechanism operates the main valve against an elastic force that urges the main valve from the open position to the closed position in response to the operating force generated by the operator's gripping action. The check valve according to any one of (15) to (17), further comprising a lever member that moves the check valve to the open position.
(19) The check valve has a through hole narrower than the inner diameter of the pipe line, and communicates the air flow path on the air supply source side with the air flow path on the main valve side via the through hole. (15), characterized in that it comprises an annular portion, and an elastic body sphere that is provided closer to the main valve than the annular portion in the air flow passage and has an outer diameter larger than the through hole. non-return valve.
(20) The pressure gauge is provided between the main valve and the check valve in the air flow passage, and the elastic ball moves from the annular portion toward the main valve so that it does not move more than a predetermined distance. The check valve according to (19), further comprising a regulating member that regulates.
(21) The check valve is a flapper type check valve having a flat plate-shaped valve body, and the valve body has an appropriate pressure set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. The pressure gauge does not undergo plastic deformation even when subjected to the maximum value, and functions as a valve body even when the pressure gauge receives the minimum value among the appropriate pressure values set for each of the multiple types of tires to be measured. The check valve according to (15), characterized in that:

The invention may be embodied in various other forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the above-described embodiments are merely illustrative in all respects, and should not be interpreted in a limiting manner. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and is not restricted in any way by the main text of the specification. Furthermore, all changes, various improvements, substitutions and modifications that come within the scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be within the scope of the invention.

Reference Signs List 1 Pressure gauge, 101 Gauge body, 102 Pressure measuring section, 103 Plug, 104 Main valve opening/closing mechanism, 105 Hose, 106 Chuck.

Claims (21)

an air flow path that supplies compressed air output from a compressed air supply source toward a tire to be filled;
The air flow passage is provided in the air flow passage and is elastically biased to a closed position that blocks air flow between the tire side and the compressed air supply source side. When the air pressure transmitted through the compressed air is equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure value, it is pressed by the air pressure to allow air to move between the air flow path on the tire side and the air flow path on the compressed air supply source side. a main valve that retreats to an open position;
a pressure measuring unit that measures the air pressure of the tire transmitted from the tire side via the air flow path;
provided between the main valve and the compressed air supply source in the air flow passage, allowing air to flow from the compressed air supply source to the main valve in the air flow passage; a check valve that blocks the flow of air from the main valve toward the compressed air supply source;
By receiving the operating force of the operator, the main valve is moved toward the open position against the elastic force that biases the main valve from the open position toward the closed position, and the air flow is reduced. A pressure gauge comprising a main valve opening/closing mechanism that allows air to flow from the main valve toward the tire in the road,
The pressure gauge, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than an upper limit value of a measurable pressure range set in the pressure measurement section. The pressure gauge according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a maximum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. The pressure gauge according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a minimum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of a plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. The main valve opening/closing mechanism is configured to move the main valve to the open position by resisting an elastic force that urges the main valve from the open position to the closed position in response to an operating force generated by a gripping motion of the operator. The pressure gauge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a lever member for moving the pressure gauge. The check valve has an annular shape that has a through hole narrower than the inner diameter of the air flow passage and communicates the air flow passage on the compressed air supply source side with the air flow passage on the main valve side via the through hole. and an elastic sphere that is provided closer to the main valve than the annular part in the airflow passage and has a larger outer diameter than the through hole. gauge. Further comprising a regulating member that is provided between the main valve and the check valve in the air flow passage and that regulates movement of the elastic body ball so that it does not move more than a predetermined distance from the annular portion toward the main valve. The pressure gauge according to claim 5, characterized in that: The check valve is a flapper type check valve , and the valve body remains plastic even when the pressure gauge receives the maximum value among the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured. According to claim 1, the pressure gauge does not deform and functions as a check valve even when the pressure gauge receives a minimum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of a plurality of types of tires to be measured. Pressure gauge listed. an air flow path that supplies compressed air output from a compressed air supply source toward a tire to be filled;
The air flow passage is provided in the air flow passage and is elastically biased to a closed position that blocks air flow between the tire side and the compressed air supply source side. When the air pressure transmitted through the compressed air is equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure value, it is pressed by the air pressure to allow air to move between the air flow path on the tire side and the air flow path on the compressed air supply source side. a main valve that retreats to an open position;
a pressure measuring unit that measures the air pressure of the tire transmitted from the tire side via the air flow path;
provided between the main valve and the compressed air supply source in the air flow passage, allowing air to flow from the compressed air supply source to the main valve in the air flow passage; a check valve mounting part for mounting a check valve that blocks the flow of air from the main valve toward the compressed air supply source;
By receiving the operating force of the operator, the main valve is moved toward the open position against the elastic force that biases the main valve from the open position toward the closed position, and the air flow is reduced. A pressure gauge comprising a main valve opening/closing mechanism that allows air to flow from the main valve toward the tire in the road,
The pressure gauge, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than an upper limit value of a measurable pressure range set in the pressure measurement section. The pressure gauge according to claim 8, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a maximum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. The pressure gauge according to claim 8, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a minimum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. The main valve opening/closing mechanism is configured to move the main valve to the open position by resisting an elastic force that urges the main valve from the open position to the closed position in response to an operating force generated by a gripping motion of the operator. The pressure gauge according to any one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising a lever member for moving the pressure gauge. The check valve has an annular shape that has a through hole narrower than the inner diameter of the air flow passage and communicates the air flow passage on the compressed air supply source side with the air flow passage on the main valve side via the through hole. and an elastic sphere that is provided closer to the main valve than the annular part in the air flow passage and has a larger outer diameter than the through hole. gauge. Further comprising a regulating member that is provided between the main valve and the check valve in the air flow passage and that regulates movement of the elastic body ball so that it does not move more than a predetermined distance from the annular portion toward the main valve. 13. The pressure gauge according to claim 12. The check valve is a flapper type check valve , and the valve body remains plastic even when the pressure gauge receives the maximum value among the appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured. According to claim 8, the pressure gauge does not deform and functions as a check valve even when the pressure gauge receives a minimum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of a plurality of types of tires to be measured. Pressure gauge listed. An air flow path that supplies compressed air output from a compressed air supply source toward a tire to be filled; and an air flow path provided in the air flow path between the tire side and the compressed air supply source side. The tire is elastically biased to a closed position that blocks air flow, and when the air pressure transmitted from the tire side through the air flow passage is equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure value, the tire is pressed by the air pressure. a main valve retracted to an open position that allows air to move between the side air flow passage and the compressed air supply source side air flow passage; a pressure measuring unit that measures the air pressure of the tire; and a pressure measuring unit that receives an operating force from an operator to operate the main valve against an elastic force that urges the main valve from the open position to the closed position. a main valve opening/closing mechanism that moves the main valve toward the open position and allows air to flow from the main valve toward the tire in the air flow path, and the predetermined pressure value is set in the pressure measuring section. A check valve provided between the main valve and the compressed air supply source in the air flow passage of a pressure gauge that is lower than the upper limit of a measurable pressure range,
a tubular portion forming a conduit that allows air to flow from an opening at one end to an opening at the other end;
a valve body that allows air to flow from the compressed air supply source to the main valve in the pipe line and blocks the air flow from the main valve to the compressed air supply source in the pipe line; Stop valve. 16. The check valve according to claim 15, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a maximum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. 16. The check valve according to claim 15, wherein the predetermined pressure value is lower than a minimum value among appropriate pressure values set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. The main valve opening/closing mechanism is configured to move the main valve to the open position by resisting an elastic force that urges the main valve from the open position to the closed position in response to an operating force generated by a gripping motion of the operator. The check valve according to any one of claims 15 to 17, further comprising a lever member for moving the check valve. The check valve includes an annular portion having a through hole narrower than the inner diameter of the pipe line and communicating the air flow path on the air supply source side and the air flow path on the main valve side via the through hole. , an elastic body sphere provided closer to the main valve than the annular portion in the airflow passage and having a larger outer diameter than the through hole. . The pressure gauge is provided between the main valve and the check valve in the air flow passage, and restricts movement of the elastic body so that it does not move more than a predetermined distance from the annular portion toward the main valve. The check valve according to claim 19, further comprising a regulating member. The check valve is a flapper type check valve having a flat plate-shaped valve body, and the valve body has a pressure value within the appropriate pressure value set for each of the plurality of types of tires to be measured by the pressure gauge. It is confirmed that the pressure gauge does not undergo plastic deformation even when subjected to the maximum value of The check valve according to claim 15.