JP4177586B2

JP4177586B2 - Connector for small diameter pipe connection

Info

Publication number: JP4177586B2
Application number: JP2002060332A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 一美深谷
Original assignee: Usui Co Ltd
Current assignee: Usui Co Ltd
Priority date: 2002-03-06
Filing date: 2002-03-06
Publication date: 2008-11-05
Anticipated expiration: 2022-03-06
Also published as: JP2003254482A

Description

【０００１】
【産業上の利用分野】
本発明は、自動車、各種機械、装置、その他に給油、給気の供給路として配設される管径、４０ｍｍ程度以下の比較的細径からなる金属製又は樹脂製の配管を接続するための細径配管接続用コネクタに係るもので、コネクタ本体と配管との接続が良好に行われているか否かの確認を明確に行うものである。
【０００２】
【従来の技術】
従来、細径配管接続用のコネクタとして、本出願人の提案した特開平１−２２４５９３号公報記載の発明の如きタイプの製品が多く使用されている。この従来製品のコネクタ本体は、配管の挿入部内に一対のテーパー状の係合爪を接続配置している。そして、コネクタ本体の挿入部内に配管を挿入し、係合爪の先端面を配管の環状膨出部の背面に係合する事により、コネクタ本体と配管とを接続している。
【０００３】
そして、上記コネクタ本体と配管との接続が良好に行われているか否かの確認を行うため、コネクタ本体の外周に、Ｕ字型の接続確認部材を装着している。この接続確認部材は、Ｕ字の両先端内周に係合突起を設けており、コネクタ本体への配管の未接続状態では、接続確認部材を人手で容易には取り外せないものとなっている。
【０００４】
そして、コネクタ本体の挿入部に配管を挿入し、係合爪の先端面を配管の環状膨出部に係合して、コネクタ本体と配管との接続が良好に行われると、コネクタ本体外周に装着した接続確認部材を、人手で容易に引き抜く事ができる。しかし、コネクタ本体と配管との接続が不完全な場合は、接続確認部材をコネクタ本体から容易には引き抜く事ができない。従って、この接続確認部材の引き抜きができるか否かで、作業者は配管とコネクタ本体との接続の良・不良を確認する事ができた。
【０００５】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
しかしながら、この従来品の接続確認部材は、自動車の組み付けラインで配管の接続確認を行った後、コネクタ本体から引き抜いた接続確認部材を回収する手間が掛かり、作業効率に影響を及ぼすとともに、車体内に落下し、装置の故障や雑音の発生等の不具合を生じる事もあった。また、使用済みの接続確認部材は、品質上リサイクルには不適であるため、破棄するしかなく、コスト高となるとともに環境保護上の問題があった。また、接続確認部材は、前述の如く、簡単には外せないものであるが、コネクタ本体の運搬・保管時等に、強い衝撃を受けると、接続確認部材はコネクタ本体からの脱落や破損を生じる事があり、接続確認作業ができなくなる虞もあった。また、本従来例の接続確認部材は、配管とコネクタ本体との接続確認を行うのみで、配管の抜け防止効果はなかった。
【０００６】
この配管の抜け防止効果を有するものとして、特開平１１−６５９１号公報記載の従来発明では、樹脂被膜を施した金属製配管の先端付近２ヶ所に環状膨出部を設けている。そして、第１従来例と同様に、配管をコネクタ本体に挿入し、配管の先端側の第１環状膨出部の背面に、コネクタ本体の係合爪の先端面を係合して、配管とコネクタ本体とを接続していた。
【０００７】
この配管の接続完了後に、コネクタ本体と配管との接続部分に、側面から断面Ｕ字型の接続確認部材を装着し、接続確認及び抜け防止を可能としていた。この接続確認部材は、軸方向の両側に、コネクタ本体外周及び配管外周に各々配置する係合凹面を設けて、一対の壁面を形成している。そして、接続確認部材を、配管及びコネクタ本体の接続部分の側面から軸芯方向に押圧して、一方の壁面をコネクタ本体のフランジに係合し、他方の壁面を、配管の第２環状膨出部の背面に係合する事により、接続確認部材を固定する。
【０００８】
そして、コネクタ本体と配管との接続が確実に行われていれば、接続確認部材の一対の壁面間の寸法と、コネクタ本体のフランジと配管の第２環状膨出部間の寸法が同一で、接続確認部材を何ら支障なく装着できる。しかし、コネクタ本体と配管との接続が不完全であると、接続確認部材の他方の壁面が第２環状膨出部に突き当たるため、接続確認部材を装着する事ができない。従って、第２従来例でも、接続確認部材の装着が可能か否かで、コネクタ本体と配管の接続良・不良を確認可能であった。
【０００９】
更に、第２従来例では、コネクタ本体に接続した配管に、何等かの抜け力が作用すると、第２環状膨出部の背面がクリップ部材の他方の壁面内周に突き当たり、配管の抜けが防止される。従って、第２従来例のクリップ部材は、接続確認機能だけでなく、配管の抜け防止機能も有していた。勿論、コネクタ本体の係合爪と配管の第１環状膨出部との係合によっても、配管の抜けが防止されるので、配管の抜け防止効果が高い製品が得られていた。
【００１０】
しかしながら、環状膨出部は、製造の際に樹脂被膜等がダメージを受ける場合があり、第２従来例では、２つの環状膨出部を設けているので、ダメージを受ける確率が高い。特に、コネクタ本体内部に挿入される第１環状膨出部に比べて、第２環状膨出部は接続確認部材の外部に露出しているので、外気の影響を受け易く、防錆上の問題が生じる可能性があった。更に、配管に環状膨出部を２つ設けたり、コネクタ本体のフランジと配管の第２環状膨出部との距離に対応して接続確認部材を形成する事は、厳密な寸法合わせや高度な製作技術が必要であり、コスト高となっていた。
【００１１】
本発明は上述の如き課題を解決しようとするものであって、コネクタ本体と配管の接続状態の適否を目視により明確に確認可能であり、かつコネクタ本体からの配管の抜けを防止可能な細径配管接続用コネクタを得る事を目的とするものである。また、このようなコネクタを、単純な構造で廉価に提供するものである。
【００１２】
【課題を解決するための手段】
本発明は上述の如き課題を解決するため、先端側に軟弾性チューブを連結する連結筒を設け、環状膨出部を設けた配管の挿入部を後端側に設けるとともに先端から後端まで連通したコネクタ本体と、前記配管の環状膨出部を先端面に係合するとともにコネクタ本体の挿入部内に配置した係合爪と、この係合爪の両側に臨ませて形成した挿入窓を介して挿入部内に挿入した状態で配管の両側に配置されるとともに環状膨出部の外径よりも小さな間隔で設けたコ字型の接続確認部材とから成るものである。
【００１３】
また、コネクタ本体の挿入部の外周には、コネクタ本体の挿入窓と連通する挿入口を設けたキャップ部材を装着し、このキャップ部材の挿入口に、接続確認部材を挿入可能としても良い。
【００１４】
また、キャップ部材の挿入口は、接続確認部材の先端により破断可能な脆弱部によって被覆し、この脆弱部の破断により開口可能としても良い。
【００１５】
また、接続確認部材は、一対の挿入壁を、コネクタ本体の後端部から係合爪の先端に至る長さとし、該後端部から挿入部内に挿入して係合爪を外方に変形させ、配管の環状膨出部への係合爪の係合を解除可能としても良い。
【００１６】
また、接続確認部材は、キャップ部材又はコネクタ本体に接続体を介して湾曲可能に接続しても良い。
【００１７】
【作用】
本発明は、上述の如く構成したものであるから、細径配管接続用コネクタと配管とを接続するには、コネクタ本体の後端の開口部から、挿入部内に配管の先端を挿入する。この挿入により、挿入部内に配置した係合爪の内面に、配管外周の環状膨出部が突き当たるが、この環状膨出部が係合爪を内面側から外方に押圧して変形させるので、挿入経路が拡開し、配管の挿入を円滑に続行できる。そして、挿入部内への配管の挿入が完了し、環状膨出部が係合爪の先端面側に移動すると、外方に弾性変形していた係合爪が軸芯方向に復元し、先端面を環状膨出部の背面に係合する。この係合により、コネクタ本体の挿入部内に配管が固定され、抜け方向への移動が阻止されて、コネクタ本体と配管の接続が完了する。
【００１８】
次に、このコネクタ本体と配管の接続状態で、係合爪の両側に臨ませて形成した挿入窓を介して、挿入部内に接続確認部材を挿入し、接続確認を行う。もし、コネクタ本体と配管の接続が良好に行われていれば、接続確認部材を何ら支障なく挿入部内に挿入し、接続確認部材を配管の両側に配置する事ができる。しかし、係合爪と環状膨出部との係合が不完全で、コネクタ本体と配管とが接続不良を生じていれば、環状膨出部の外形よりも小さな間隔で設けた接続確認部材が、環状膨出部に突き当たり、挿入部内への接続確認部材の挿入が阻止される。このように、コネクタ本体の挿入部内への接続確認部材の挿入が可能か否かで、コネクタ本体と配管との接続良・不良を明確に目視する事ができ、信頼性の高い接続確認が行える。
【００１９】
また、本発明の接続確認部材は、接続確認機能だけでなく、配管の抜け防止機能も有している。即ち、配管に何等かの引き抜き力が加えられた場合には、配管の環状膨出部が係合爪の先端面に突き当たり、抜けを防止するものであるが、本発明では更に、環状膨出部が接続確認部材にも突き当たるので、より高い配管の抜け防止効果が得られるものである。
【００２０】
また、コネクタ本体は、運搬時や保管時に、接続確認部材挿入用の挿入窓や、配管挿入用の開口部から、挿入部内に塵埃やゴミが侵入する可能性がある。すると、配管の接続の際に、塵埃やゴミが係合爪と環状膨出部及び配管との接触部に侵入し、配管の樹脂被膜等の表面処理層を摩耗させ、防錆効果を低下させる事があった。更には、コネクタ本体内周面にシールリング部材等を配置した場合、これらと配管との間に塵埃やゴミが介在して、シール性を阻害する虞もあった。また、コネクタ本体に侵入した塵埃やゴミが、配管接続後に内部を流れる流体によって下流側配管部品に移動して、閉塞やカジリによる機能障害を起こす事も考えられる。このような不具合を防止するため、コネクタ本体は、挿入部の外周に、挿入窓や開口部を被覆可能なキャップ部材を装着しても良い。
【００２１】
このキャップ部材は、コネクタ本体の挿入窓と連通する挿入口を設ければ、キャップ部材を装着した状態で、挿入口を介して挿入窓に接続確認部材を挿入して、接続確認を行う事ができる。また、キャップ部材を取り外す必要がなく、配管の接続後も引き続きキャップ部材を装着して使用する事ができ、コネクタ本体内への塵埃やゴミの侵入を防ぐ事ができる。
【００２２】
また、確認部材を挿入する挿入口は、キャップ部材に予め開口しておけば、製造が容易で接続確認部材の挿入作業も簡単に行う事ができる。また、挿入口は、予め開口するのではなく、接続確認部材の先端により破断可能な脆弱部によって被覆し、この脆弱部の破断により挿入口を開口可能としても良い。このような構造では、脆弱部の製作の手間や、接続確認部材による脆弱部の破断の手間があるが、コネクタ本体の未使用時は、挿入口が開口していないので、キャップ部材の防塵効果が高く、運搬・保管時のコネクタ本体への塵埃やゴミの侵入を確実に防止する事ができる。
【００２３】
また、コネクタ本体から配管を離脱するには、接続確認部材をコネクタ本体から取り出した後、コネクタ本体の開口部を介して適宜のリリース部材を挿入部内に挿入する。そして、このリリース部材を、係合爪と配管との間に挿入して係合爪を外方に変形させ、環状膨出部と係合爪との係合を解除する事により、コネクタ本体から配管を抜き出すものである。このリリース部材としての機能を接続確認部材に持たせて形成しても良く、それにはコネクタ本体の後端部から係合爪の先端に至る長さで一対の挿入壁を形成する。この挿入壁を、該後端部から挿入部内に挿入して係合爪を外方に変形し、配管の環状膨出部への係合爪の係合を解除可能とする。このような構造とすれば、接続確認部材は、配管の接続確認及び配管の抜け防止だけでなく、更に配管のリリース部材としての使用が可能な機能的な製品となる。
【００２４】
また、接続確認部材は、単体で形成しても良いが、キャップ部材又はコネクタ本体に接続体により湾曲可能に接続すれば、運搬時の接続確認部材の紛失等を防ぐ事ができるし、接続確認部材の装着も手軽に行える。また、配管の使用中に、振動その他で接続確認部材が挿入窓から離脱しても、車体内等に不用意に落下する事がなく、部品の紛失を防ぎ、装置の故障等の原因となる事がない。
【００２５】
【実施例】
本発明の一実施例を、図１〜図９に於いて詳細に説明すれば、(１)はコネクタ本体で、先端付近に環状膨出部(２)を設けた金属製、硬質樹脂製等の配管(３)を接続可能としている。この配管(３)の環状膨出部(２)は、コネクタ本体(１)への挿入側をテーパー壁(４)とし、背面側の壁面を垂直壁(５)としている。また、コネクタ本体(１)は、先端側に軟弾性チューブ(６)を連結する連結筒(７)を設け、この連結筒(７)内に流体の流通路(８)を設けている。更に、コネクタ本体(１)の後端側には、連結筒(７)よりも径大で配管(３)を接続可能な挿入部(１０)を、前記流通路(８)と連通可能に形成している。
【００２６】
また、挿入部(１０)は、配管(３)の先端を挿入係合する径小部(１１)と、環状膨出部(２)を配置可能な径大部(１２)とで構成している。そして、径小部(１１)には、ゴム、樹脂等で形成したシールリング部材(１４)と筒状のブッシュ部材(１５)とを内装し、コネクタ本体(１)の流通路(８)と配管(３)内部とのシール性を高めている。また、径大部(１２)には、外周に２個の開口窓(１６)を対向して設け、各開口窓(１６)の後端側から挿入部(１０)の内部方向に、係合爪(１７)をテーパー状に突出形成している。この係合爪(１７)は、外方に弾性変形可能で、挿入部(１０)内に配置した先端面(１８)に、配管(３)の環状膨出部(２)の垂直壁(５)を係合可能としている。
【００２７】
また、径大部(１２)は、一対の係合爪(１７)の両側に臨ませて、軸方向に挿入窓(２０)を開口し、この挿入窓(２０)を介して挿入部(１０)内に、配管(３)の接続良・不良を確認するための接続確認部材(２１)を挿入可能としている。本実施例では、接続確認部材(２１)は、図１に示す如く、挿入窓(２０)を介して挿入部(１０)内に挿入し配管(３)の両側に配置可能な一対の挿入壁(２２)と、この一対の挿入壁(２２)の後端を連結する連結壁(２３)とでコ字型に構成している。また、一対の挿入壁(２２)は、環状膨出部(２)の外径よりも径小であるが配管(３)の両側に配置可能な間隔で設け、一方の係合爪(１７)側の挿入窓(２０)から挿入部(１０)内に挿入し、先端を他方の係合爪(１７)側の挿入窓(２０)に係合可能な形成長さとし、挿入部(１０)内での挿入壁(２２)の配置安定性と衝撃に対する強度を高めている。また、連結壁(２３)は、図１に示す如く、一端部をテーパー状に切り欠いて、ドライバーなどの差込部(１９)を設け、コネクタ本体(１)からの接続確認部材(２１)の取り外しを容易としている。
【００２８】
また、本実施例では、コネクタ本体(１)に防塵用のキャップ部材(２６)を装着している。このキャップ部材(２６)は、透明又は半透明な合成樹脂等で形成し、コネクタ本体(１)の挿入部(１０)外周を被覆する円筒部(２４)と、配管(３)を挿入する開口部(１３)を被覆する底部(２５)とから成り、開口部(１３)、挿入窓(２０)、開口窓(１６)等から、挿入部(１０)内に塵埃やゴミが侵入するのを防止可能としている。そして、円筒部(２４)には、コネクタ本体(１)の一方の挿入窓(２０)と連通する挿入口(２７)を設け、この挿入口(２７)を介して、挿入壁(２２)を挿入窓(２０)及び挿入部(１０)内に挿入可能としている。
【００２９】
また、本実施例では、挿入口(２７)は予め開口するのではなく、図１、図６、図７に示す如く、挿入口(２７)形成予定部を肉薄に形成して一対の脆弱部(２８)を設け、この脆弱部(２８)を一対の挿入壁(２２)の先端にて破断する事により挿入口(２７)を開口可能としている。従って、コネクタ本体(１)の運搬・保管時は、挿入口(２７)からの塵埃・ゴミの侵入の心配がないものとなる。また、挿入口(２７)への挿入壁(２２)の挿入を容易とするために、円筒部(２４)には、図１に示す如く、両側の脆弱部(２８)に臨ませてコ字型のガイド壁(３０)を配置している。このガイド壁(３０)を設ける事により、コネクタ本体(１)への装着後は、接続確認部材(２１)を衝撃から保護して脱落を防ぐ効果も得られる。本実施例では更に、ガイド壁(３０)の脆弱部(２８)側の内面に、図７に示す如く、係合凹溝(３１)を設け、この係合凹溝(３１)に、挿入壁(２２)の係合突条(３２)を係合可能とし、コネクタ本体(１)と接続確認部材(２１)との分離を防いでいる。
【００３０】
また、キャップ部材(２６)の底部(２５)は、配管(３)を挿入可能とするが、底部(２５)に、中心から放射状に複数の切れ目を入れておけば、配管(３)の非挿入時は、底部(２５)が開口せず、塵埃・ゴミの侵入を防ぐ事ができる。そして、配管(３)の挿入時は、放射状の切れ目を押し広げる事により底部(２５)が開口し、キャップ部材(２６)を取り外す事なく、コネクタ本体(１)の挿入部(１０)内に配管(３)を挿入可能となる。
【００３１】
そして、本実施例では、前記キャップ部材(２６)と接続確認部材(２１)を、湾曲可能な接続体(３６)を介して接続し、接続確認部材(２１)の紛失や車体内等への落下を防ぐとともに、組み立て部品の点数を少なくしている。
【００３２】
上述の如く形成したコネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)とを接続するには、キャップ部材(２６)の装着状態で、まず配管(３)を、コネクタ本体(１)の開口部(１３)を介して挿入部(１０)内に挿入する。この挿入により、配管(３)の環状膨出部(２)が係合爪(１７)に突き当たるが、挿入作業の続行により、環状膨出部(２)が係合爪(１７)内面を通過しながら係合爪(１７)を外方に弾性変形させるので、挿入経路が拡開し、環状膨出部(２)を係合爪(１７)の先端面(１８)側に移動させる事ができる。
【００３３】
このように環状膨出部(２)が係合爪(１７)の先端面(１８)側に移動すると、配管(３)の先端が径小部(１１)内に挿入され、シールリング部材(１４)が配管(３)外周に密着して、良好なシール性が保たれる。また、径大部(１２)では、外方に弾性変形していた係合爪(１７)が軸心方向に復元し、図５に示す如く、環状膨出部(２)の垂直壁(５)に係合爪(１７)の先端面(１８)が係合する。この係合により、配管(３)が挿入部(１０)内に固定され、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)との接続が完了する。
【００３４】
次に、接続確認部材(２１)により、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)の接続状態の良・不良を確認する。この接続確認は、キャップ部材(２６)の装着状態で行う事ができ、接続確認部材(２１)の挿入壁(２２)の先端で、キャップ部材(２６)の脆弱部(２８)を破断して挿入口(２７)を開口する。そして、この挿入口(２７)と、コネクタ本体(１)の一方の係合爪(１７)両側に臨ませて形成した挿入窓(２０)を介して、挿入部(１０)内に挿入壁(２２)を挿入する。
【００３５】
この挿入の際、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)の接続が良好に行われていれば、図２〜図４に示す如く、接続確認部材(２１)は何ら支障なく挿入部(１０)内に挿入され、挿入壁(２２)の端面を環状膨出部(２)の垂直壁(５)に臨ませて、配管(３)の両側に配置する事ができる。また、本実施例では、挿入壁(２２)を、一方の挿入窓(２０)から挿入し、先端を他方の挿入窓(２０)に係合するので、挿入壁(２２)の傾斜やがたつきを防いで、安定性が高まるとともに、衝撃に対する強度にも優れたものとなる。そして、挿入壁(２２)の挿入が完了すると、図４に示す如く、キャップ部材(２６)のガイド壁(３０)に凹設した係合凹溝(３１)に、挿入壁(２２)の係合突条(３２)が係合して、接続確認部材(２１)が固定されるとともに、接続確認部材(２１)の端面に環状膨出部(２)の垂直壁(５)が突き当たるので、配管(３)使用時の接続確認部材(２１)の不用意な脱落を防ぐ事ができる。
【００３６】
ところが、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)とが接続不良を生じている場合は、環状膨出部(２)の外形よりも小さな間隔で設けた挿入壁(２２)が、図８、図９に示す如く、環状膨出部(２)に突き当たるので、挿入部(１０)内への挿入が不可能となる。従って、作業者は、接続確認部材(２１)の挿入が可能か否かで、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)との接続良、不良を明確に目視する事ができ、信頼性の高い接続確認が可能となる。また、キャップ部材(２６)を取り外す必要がないから、接続確認作業も容易であるし、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)との接続後の防塵性も良好に保たれるものとなる。この防塵効果により、環状膨出部(２)と係合爪(１７)の接触部や、シールリング部材(１４)及びブッシュ部材(１５)と配管(３)との接触部、及び配管(３)を流動する流体内に防塵・ゴミが侵入しにくいものとなり、配管(３)の摩耗やシール性の低下を良好に防止して、配管(３)内の円滑な流体の流動が可能となる。
【００３７】
また、本発明の接続確認部材(２１)は、接続確認を行うだけでなく、配管(３)の抜けを防止する事ができる。即ち、配管(３)に引き抜き力が加えられると、環状膨出部(２)の垂直壁(５)が係合爪(１７)の先端面(１８)に突き当たって抜けを阻止されるだけでなく、更に、環状膨出部(２)の垂直壁(５)が接続確認部材(２１)の挿入壁(２２)の端面に突き当たる。従って、配管(３)の抜けが二重に防止され、優れた配管(３)の接続構造がえられるものとなる。
【００３８】
以下、他の異なる実施例について説明する。まず、上記第１実施例では、コネクタ本体(１)に挿入窓(２０)を対向して二対設け、一方の挿入窓(２０)から挿入部(１０)に挿入壁(２２)を挿入し、この挿入壁(２２)の先端を他方の挿入窓(２０)に係合している。これに対して、図１０、図１１に示す第２実施例では、挿入壁(２２)を第１実施例のほぼ半分の形成長さとし、挿入壁(２２)を挿入する挿入窓(２０)も一対のみ設けている。
【００３９】
また、第１実施例では、接続確認部材(２１)は、図５〜図７に示す如く、接続確認前には、挿入壁(２２)を挿入部(１０)に挿入する事はないが、第２実施例の接続確認部材(２１)では、挿入壁(２２)の先端を、挿入口(２７)及び挿入窓(２０)を介して、図１１に示す如く、挿入部(１０)内に予め挿入している。また、第２実施例でも、挿入壁(２２)の係合突条(３２)を、キャップ部材(２６)のガイド壁(３０)に設けた係合凹溝(３１)に係合可能としているが、接続確認前は、係合突条(３２)と係合凹溝(３１)とを係合せず、挿入壁(２２)が自在に上下動可能となるようにしている。
【００４０】
上記第２実施例のコネクタ本体(１)に、配管(３)を挿入すると、図１１に示す如く、挿入部(１０)内に配置した挿入壁(２２)に、環状膨出部(２)のテーパー壁(４)が突き当たる。しかし、挿入壁(２２)は短尺で、自在に上下動可能なので、環状膨出部(２)のテーパー壁(４)に挿入壁(２２)が外方に押圧移動され、挿入壁(２２)に邪魔される事なく、配管(３)を挿入部(１０)に挿入し、環状膨出部(２)の垂直壁(５)に係合爪(１７)の先端面(１８)を係合させる事ができる。
【００４１】
そして、配管(３)の接続が完了したら、接続確認を行うが、接続確認部材(２１)を予め挿入部(１０)内に仮挿入しているから、作業者は連結壁(２３)を軸芯方向に押圧して、係合突条(３２)と係合凹部(３１)とを係合させるだけで作業が完了する。第２実施例の場合も、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)との接続が良好に行われていれば、接続確認部材(２１)は、配管(３)の環状膨出部(２)を設けていない部分の両側に配置され、装着が何ら支障なく行えるが、接続不良を生じていれば、接続確認部材(２１)は環状膨出部(２)に突き当たり、装着が行えないから、作業者はコネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)との接続不良を容易に確認できる。
【００４２】
このように、第２実施例に於いても、信頼性の高い接続確認が可能であるし、第１実施例に比べて、接続確認部材(２１)の材料や挿入窓(２０)の形成の手間を省いて、低コストな製品が得られる。また、第１実施例の挿入壁(２２)に比べて強度は劣るものの、第２実施例に於いても、配管(３)に抜け力が作用した場合には、環状膨出部(２)が挿入壁(２２)に突き当たるので、配管(３)の抜け防止効果も有するものとなる。
【００４３】
また、キャップ部材(２６)に設ける挿入口(２７)は、第１実施例の如く、脆弱部(２８)を設ける方式でも良いが、製造時に開口形成しても良く、コネクタ本体(１)の製造や接続確認作業が容易となる。また、挿入壁(２２)を予め挿入部(１０)内に挿入しているので、挿入口(２７)からの塵埃・ゴミの侵入も防げる。
【００４４】
また、上記第１、第２実施例では、使用する接続確認部材(２１)は一個のみであるが、第３実施例では、図１２、図１３に示す如く、接続確認部材(２１)を２個設けている。そして、各々の接続確認部材(２１)を、キャップ部材(２６)及びコネクタ本体(１)に、対向して設けた開口部(１３)と挿入窓(２０)の一方及び他方から、挿入部(１０)内に挿入可能としている。また、第３実施例でも、第２実施例と同様に、２個の接続確認部材(２１)を予め挿入部(１０)内に挿入している。そして、各接続確認部材(２１)は、コネクタ本体(１)外周に装着した接続リング(３７)に、接続体(３６)として、付勢体(３８)を介して連結している。この付勢体(３８)は、挿入部(１０)内に挿入した接続確認部材(２１)を、常に挿入部(１０)の内部方向に付勢し、挿入壁(２２)の先端を互いに突き当てている。また、一対の付勢体(３８)及び接続リング(３７)により、コネクタ本体(１)からの２つの接続確認部材(２１)の離脱を防いでいる。
【００４５】
上記第３実施例に於いて、コネクタ本体(１)の挿入部(１０)内に配管(３)を挿入すると、環状膨出部(２)が２つの挿入壁(２２)に突き当たるが、挿入を続行すると環状膨出部(２)のテーパー壁(４)により各挿入壁(２２)が外方に押圧され、付勢体(３８)の付勢力に抗して挿入壁(２２)が離脱方向に移動するので、図１３に示す如く、何ら支障なく配管(３)の挿入を続行して、挿入壁(２２)よりも先端側に環状膨出部(２)を移動させる事ができる。また、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)の接続が完了すると、付勢体(３８)の復元力により、挿入壁(２２)が軸芯方向に復元移動する。
【００４６】
そして、コネクタ本体(１)への配管(３)の接続が良好に行われていれば、図１２に示す如く、双方の挿入壁(２２)が確実に挿入部(１０)内に挿入され、互いの先端を再び突き当てる。しかし、配管(３)の接続が不完全であれば、挿入壁(２２)が環状膨出部(２)に突き当たり、挿入部(１０)から外方に突出した状態となる。従って、作業者は、配管(３)の接続良・不良を、明確に目視する事ができる。また、第１、第２実施例に比べて、接続リング(３７)や付勢体(３８)の製造の手間やコストはかかるが、コネクタ本体(１)への配管(３)の接続を行うだけで、接続確認作業も行う事ができ、作業者の手間を省く事ができる。また、配管(３)に抜け力が作用した場合には、環状膨出部(２)の垂直壁(５)が２つの挿入壁(２２)に突き当たり、その接触面積も多いので、高い抜け防止効果が得られる。
【００４７】
また、上記第１〜第３実施例の接続確認部材(２１)は、配管(３)の接続確認機能、及び抜け防止機能を有するものであるが、図１４〜図１６に示す第４実施例では更に、接続確認部材(２１)に配管(３)のリリース機能も持たせている。その構造は、接続確認部材(２１)の一対の挿入壁(２２)を、コネクタ本体(１)の開口部(１３)から挿入部(１０)内に挿入可能に、挿入壁(２２)の外周面を、図１５に示す如く、円弧状に形成し、その挿入の際に挿入壁(２２)の先端が、図１６に示す如く、係合爪(１７)の先端面(１８)に到達可能な形成長さとする。
【００４８】
また、第１〜第３実施例では、挿入壁(２２)を連結壁(２３)にて連結しているが、第４実施例では、配管(３)の接続状態での挿入を妨げないように、挿入壁(２２)を三日月型の連結体(４０)にて分離不能に連結している。また、この連結体(４０)は、コネクタ本体(１)外周に装着した接続リング(３７)に、湾曲可能な接続体(３６)にて連結し、この接続体(３６)は、長尺な挿入壁(２２)を開口部(１３)から容易に挿入部(１０)内に挿入可能なように、長尺に形成している。尚、接続確認部材(２１)は、接続体(３６)を介してキャップ部材(２６)に接続するものであっても良いが、接続リング(３７)を用いる事により、使用目的に応じて接続確認部材(２１)を任意の位置に回転させる事ができる。
【００４９】
上記第４実施例では、コネクタ本体(１)への配管(３)の非接続時は、第１実施例と同様に、接続確認部材(２１)をコネクタ本体(１)に挿入する事はなく、コネクタ本体(１)への配管(３)の接続が完了した後に、挿入作業を行う。また、長尺な挿入壁(２２)を挿入可能とするため、キャップ部材(２６)及びコネクタ本体(１)には、対向して二対の挿入口(２７)及び挿入窓(２０)を設けている。そして、コネクタ本体(１)と配管(３)との接続が良好であれば、挿入壁(２２)の挿入は何ら支障なく行えるし、接続不良であれば、挿入壁(２２)が環状膨出部(２)に突き当たり、挿入ができなくなるので、作業者は明確に接続確認を行う事ができる。また、挿入壁(２２)を、二対の挿入口(２７)と挿入窓(２０)に係合しているので、環状膨出部(２)の突当てに対する接続確認部材(２１)の安定性と強度が高く、配管(３)の抜け防止効果にも優れたものとなる。
【００５０】
次に、第４実施例の接続確認部材(２１)を使用して、コネクタ本体(１)から配管(３)を離脱するには、まず、挿入部(１０)内から挿入壁(２２)を抜き取る。次に、挿入壁(２２)を円周方向に９０度回転させて係合爪(１７)と平行に配置した後、挿入壁(２２)をコネクタ本体(１)の開口部(１３)側に移動して、この開口部(１３)を介して挿入壁(２２)を挿入部(１０)内に挿入する。そして、挿入壁(２２)を、コネクタ本体(１)の２つの係合爪(１７)内面に沿って移動すると、図１６に示す如く、係合爪(１７)が外方に弾性変形し、係合爪(１７)と環状膨出部(２)との係合が解除される。従って、作業者はコネクタ本体(１)から配管(３)を容易に抜き出す事ができる。
【００５１】
【発明の効果】
本発明は上述の如く構成したものであるから、コネクタ本体と配管との接続良・不良の確認を、コネクタ本体への接続確認部材の装着可・不可により明確に目視する事ができ、信頼性の高い接続確認が可能となる。また、接続確認だけでなく、配管の不用意な抜けも防止可能であるから、配管の接続構造の耐久性が向上し、配管内の円滑な流体の流動が可能となる。また、配管に２つの環状膨出部を設ける等の手間を必要とせず、配管の劣化による装置の故障等も防ぐ事ができる。更に、接続確認部材を単純な構造で容易に製造する事ができ、高性能であるだけでなく低コストな細径配管用コネクタを得る事ができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の第１実施例のコネクタ本体の分解斜視図。
【図２】コネクタ本体への接続確認部材の挿入状態を示す断面図。
【図３】図２の一部切り欠き平面図。
【図４】図２のＡ−Ａ線断面図。
【図５】配管の接続が完了し、接続確認部材の未挿入状態の断面図。
【図６】図５の一部切り欠き平面図。
【図７】図５のＢ−Ｂ線断面図。
【図８】配管の接続不良のため、接続確認部材が環状膨出部に突き当たった状態を示す断面図。
【図９】図８のＣ−Ｃ線断面図。
【図１０】本発明の第２実施例で、接続確認部材の挿入状態を示す断面図。
【図１１】コネクタ本体への配管の挿入過程を示す断面図。
【図１２】本発明の第３実施例で、接続確認部材の挿入状態を示す断面図。
【図１３】コネクタ本体への配管の挿入過程を示す断面図。
【図１４】本発明の第４実施例で、接続確認部材の挿入状態を示す断面図。
【図１５】図１４の一部切り欠き平面図。
【図１６】第４実施例の接続確認部材を配管のリリーサーとして使用した状態の断面図。
【符号の説明】
１コネクタ本体
２環状膨出部
３配管
６軟弾性チューブ
７連結筒
１０挿入部
１７係合爪
１８先端面
２０挿入窓
２１接続確認部材
２２挿入壁
２６キャップ部材
２７挿入口
２８脆弱部
３６接続体[0001]
[Industrial application fields]
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention is for connecting pipes made of metal or resin made of a relatively small diameter of about 40 mm or less to a pipe diameter provided as an oil supply or supply air supply path to automobiles, various machines, devices, etc. This relates to the connector for small-diameter pipe connection, and clearly confirms whether or not the connection between the connector main body and the pipe is satisfactorily performed.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, as a connector for connecting a small-diameter pipe, a product of the type described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 1-222459 proposed by the present applicant is often used. In the connector body of this conventional product, a pair of tapered engagement claws are connected and arranged in the insertion portion of the pipe. And piping is inserted in the insertion part of a connector main body, and the connector main body and piping are connected by engaging the front end surface of an engaging claw with the back surface of the cyclic | annular bulging part of piping.
[0003]
And in order to confirm whether the connection with the said connector main body and piping is performed favorably, the U-shaped connection confirmation member is mounted | worn with the outer periphery of the connector main body. This connection confirmation member is provided with engagement protrusions on the inner periphery of both ends of the U-shape, and the connection confirmation member cannot be easily removed manually when the pipe is not connected to the connector body.
[0004]
Then, when the pipe is inserted into the insertion portion of the connector main body, the tip end surface of the engagement claw is engaged with the annular bulging portion of the pipe, and the connection between the connector main body and the pipe is performed well, The attached connection confirmation member can be easily pulled out manually. However, when the connection between the connector body and the pipe is incomplete, the connection confirmation member cannot be easily pulled out from the connector body. Therefore, the operator can confirm whether the connection between the pipe and the connector main body is good or bad depending on whether or not the connection confirmation member can be pulled out.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, this conventional connection confirmation member takes time and effort to collect the connection confirmation member pulled out from the connector body after confirming the connection of the piping in the assembly line of the automobile, and affects the work efficiency. Could cause problems such as equipment failure or noise. Moreover, since the used connection confirmation member is unsuitable for recycling in terms of quality, it has to be discarded, resulting in high costs and problems in environmental protection. In addition, the connection confirmation member cannot be easily removed as described above. However, if the connector confirmation member is subjected to a strong impact during transportation or storage of the connector body, the connection confirmation member may drop or break from the connector body. There was a possibility that the connection confirmation work could not be performed. Moreover, the connection confirmation member of this prior art example only confirmed the connection between the pipe and the connector body, and had no effect of preventing the pipe from coming off.
[0006]
In order to have the effect of preventing the pipe from coming off, in the conventional invention described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-6591, two annular bulges are provided in the vicinity of the tip of the metal pipe provided with the resin coating. Then, as in the first conventional example, the pipe is inserted into the connector main body, the front end surface of the engagement claw of the connector main body is engaged with the back surface of the first annular bulging portion on the front end side of the pipe, The connector body was connected.
[0007]
After the connection of the pipe is completed, a connection confirmation member having a U-shaped cross section is attached to the connection portion between the connector main body and the pipe from the side to enable connection confirmation and prevention of disconnection. This connection confirmation member is provided with a pair of wall surfaces by providing engagement concave surfaces disposed on the outer periphery of the connector main body and the outer periphery of the pipe on both sides in the axial direction. Then, the connection confirmation member is pressed in the axial direction from the side surface of the connection portion of the pipe and the connector main body, one wall surface is engaged with the flange of the connector main body, and the other wall surface is connected to the second annular bulge of the pipe. The connection confirmation member is fixed by engaging the back surface of the portion.
[0008]
If the connection between the connector main body and the pipe is securely performed, the dimension between the pair of wall surfaces of the connection confirmation member and the dimension between the flange of the connector main body and the second annular bulging portion of the pipe are the same, The connection confirmation member can be installed without any trouble. However, if the connection between the connector main body and the pipe is incomplete, the other wall surface of the connection confirmation member abuts against the second annular bulge portion, so that the connection confirmation member cannot be mounted. Therefore, even in the second conventional example, it was possible to confirm whether the connector main body and the pipe were connected or not, depending on whether or not the connection confirmation member could be attached.
[0009]
Further, in the second conventional example, when any pulling force acts on the pipe connected to the connector body, the back surface of the second annular bulging portion hits the inner peripheral surface of the other wall surface of the clip member, thereby preventing the pipe from coming off. Is done. Therefore, the clip member of the second conventional example has not only a connection confirmation function but also a function of preventing the pipe from coming off. Of course, the engagement between the engagement claw of the connector main body and the first annular bulging portion of the pipe also prevents the pipe from coming off, so that a product with a high effect of preventing the pipe from coming off has been obtained.
[0010]
However, the annular bulging portion may be damaged by the resin film or the like during manufacture. In the second conventional example, since the two annular bulging portions are provided, the probability of receiving damage is high. In particular, compared to the first annular bulging portion inserted into the connector body, the second annular bulging portion is exposed to the outside of the connection confirmation member. Could occur. Furthermore, providing two annular bulges in the pipe, or forming a connection confirmation member corresponding to the distance between the flange of the connector body and the second annular bulge of the pipe, requires strict dimensional adjustment and advanced Manufacturing technology was required, and the cost was high.
[0011]
The present invention is intended to solve the problems as described above, and it is possible to clearly confirm the appropriateness of the connection state between the connector body and the pipe by visual observation, and to prevent the pipe from coming off from the connector body. The object is to obtain a connector for pipe connection. Further, such a connector is provided at a low cost with a simple structure.
[0012]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides a connecting cylinder for connecting a soft elastic tube on the front end side, and provides an insertion portion of a pipe provided with an annular bulging portion on the rear end side and communicates from the front end to the rear end. Through the connector body, the engagement claw disposed in the insertion portion of the connector body, and the insertion window formed facing both sides of the engagement claw. It is composed of U-shaped connection confirmation members which are arranged on both sides of the pipe in a state of being inserted into the insertion portion and which are provided at intervals smaller than the outer diameter of the annular bulge portion.
[0013]
In addition, a cap member provided with an insertion port communicating with the insertion window of the connector main body may be attached to the outer periphery of the insertion portion of the connector main body, and the connection confirmation member may be inserted into the insertion port of the cap member.
[0014]
Further, the insertion opening of the cap member may be covered with a fragile portion that can be broken by the tip of the connection confirmation member, and may be opened by breaking the fragile portion.
[0015]
In the connection confirmation member, the pair of insertion walls have a length extending from the rear end of the connector body to the tip of the engaging claw, and are inserted into the insertion portion from the rear end to deform the engaging claw outward. The engagement claw may be disengaged from the annular bulging portion of the pipe.
[0016]
Further, the connection confirmation member may be connected to the cap member or the connector body via a connecting body so as to be bent.
[0017]
[Action]
Since the present invention is configured as described above, in order to connect the small-diameter pipe connection connector and the pipe, the front end of the pipe is inserted into the insertion section from the opening at the rear end of the connector main body. By this insertion, the annular bulging portion on the outer periphery of the pipe abuts on the inner surface of the engaging claw disposed in the insertion portion, but this annular bulging portion presses the engaging claw outward from the inner surface side and deforms it. The insertion path is expanded and piping can be inserted smoothly. Then, when the insertion of the pipe into the insertion portion is completed and the annular bulge portion moves to the distal end surface side of the engagement claw, the engagement claw that has been elastically deformed outward is restored in the axial direction, and the distal end surface Is engaged with the back surface of the annular bulge. By this engagement, the pipe is fixed in the insertion portion of the connector main body, the movement in the disconnecting direction is prevented, and the connection between the connector main body and the pipe is completed.
[0018]
Next, a connection confirmation member is inserted into the insertion portion through an insertion window formed so as to face both sides of the engagement claw in a connected state of the connector main body and the pipe, thereby confirming the connection. If the connector main body and the pipe are connected well, the connection confirmation member can be inserted into the insertion portion without any trouble, and the connection confirmation member can be arranged on both sides of the pipe. However, if the engagement between the engaging claw and the annular bulging portion is incomplete and the connector main body and the pipe are poorly connected, the connection confirmation member provided at a smaller interval than the outer shape of the annular bulging portion Then, it hits the annular bulging portion and the insertion of the connection confirmation member into the insertion portion is prevented. In this way, whether or not the connection confirmation member can be inserted into the insertion portion of the connector body makes it possible to clearly see whether the connector body and the pipe are connected or not, and to confirm the connection with high reliability. .
[0019]
In addition, the connection confirmation member of the present invention has not only a connection confirmation function but also a function of preventing the pipe from coming off. That is, when any pulling force is applied to the piping, the annular bulging portion of the piping abuts against the distal end surface of the engaging claw to prevent it from coming off. Since the portion also hits the connection confirmation member, a higher effect of preventing the piping from coming off can be obtained.
[0020]
In addition, when the connector body is transported or stored, dust or dirt may enter the insertion portion from the insertion window for inserting the connection confirmation member or the opening for pipe insertion. Then, when the pipe is connected, dust or dirt enters the contact portion between the engaging claw, the annular bulge and the pipe, wears the surface treatment layer such as a resin film of the pipe, and reduces the rust prevention effect. There was a thing. Furthermore, when a seal ring member or the like is disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the connector main body, there is a possibility that dust and dirt are interposed between these and the piping, thereby hindering the sealing performance. In addition, it is also conceivable that dust or dirt that has entered the connector main body moves to the downstream piping parts by the fluid flowing inside after connecting the pipes, causing functional failure due to blockage or galling. In order to prevent such a problem, the connector body may be provided with a cap member that can cover the insertion window and the opening on the outer periphery of the insertion portion.
[0021]
If this cap member is provided with an insertion port that communicates with the insertion window of the connector main body, the connection confirmation member may be inserted into the insertion window through the insertion port with the cap member attached thereto to confirm the connection. it can. Further, it is not necessary to remove the cap member, and the cap member can be continuously mounted and used even after the pipe is connected, and dust and dirt can be prevented from entering the connector body.
[0022]
In addition, if the insertion port for inserting the confirmation member is opened in the cap member in advance, it is easy to manufacture and the connection confirmation member can be inserted easily. Further, the insertion port may not be opened in advance, but may be covered with a fragile portion that can be broken by the tip of the connection confirmation member, and the insertion port may be opened by breaking the fragile portion. In such a structure, there is a trouble of manufacturing the weak part and a trouble of breaking the weak part by the connection confirmation member, but when the connector main body is not used, since the insertion port is not opened, the dust-proof effect of the cap member It can prevent dust and debris from entering the connector body during transportation and storage.
[0023]
In order to remove the pipe from the connector main body, after removing the connection confirmation member from the connector main body, an appropriate release member is inserted into the insertion portion through the opening of the connector main body. Then, the release member is inserted between the engaging claw and the pipe, the engaging claw is deformed outwardly, and the engagement between the annular bulging portion and the engaging claw is released, so that from the connector main body. The piping is extracted. The connection confirmation member may be provided with the function as the release member, and a pair of insertion walls are formed with a length from the rear end portion of the connector main body to the front end of the engaging claw. The insertion wall is inserted into the insertion portion from the rear end portion, and the engagement claw is deformed outward, so that the engagement of the engagement claw with the annular bulging portion of the pipe can be released. With such a structure, the connection confirmation member becomes a functional product that can be used as a pipe release member, as well as pipe connection confirmation and pipe removal prevention.
[0024]
In addition, the connection confirmation member may be formed as a single unit, but if it is connected to the cap member or the connector main body so that it can be bent, the connection confirmation member can be prevented from being lost during transportation. You can easily install the components. Also, even if the connection confirmation member is detached from the insertion window due to vibration or other causes during piping use, it will not accidentally fall into the vehicle body, etc., preventing parts from being lost and causing equipment failure, etc. There is nothing.
[0025]
【Example】
An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9. (1) is a connector body, made of metal, hard resin, etc. provided with an annular bulge (2) near the tip. The pipe (3) can be connected. The annular bulging portion (2) of the pipe (3) has a tapered wall (4) on the insertion side to the connector body (1) and a vertical wall (5) on the back wall. Further, the connector body (1) is provided with a connecting cylinder (7) for connecting the soft elastic tube (6) on the distal end side, and a fluid flow passage (8) is provided in the connecting cylinder (7). Further, on the rear end side of the connector body (1), an insertion portion (10) having a diameter larger than that of the connecting cylinder (7) and connecting the pipe (3) is formed so as to be able to communicate with the flow passage (8). is doing.
[0026]
The insertion portion (10) is composed of a small-diameter portion (11) into which the tip of the pipe (3) is inserted and engaged, and a large-diameter portion (12) in which the annular bulge portion (2) can be arranged. Yes. The small diameter portion (11) includes a seal ring member (14) formed of rubber, resin, etc. and a cylindrical bush member (15), and a flow passage (8) of the connector body (1). The seal with the pipe (3) is improved. In addition, the large-diameter portion (12) is provided with two opening windows (16) facing each other on the outer periphery, and is engaged from the rear end side of each opening window (16) toward the inside of the insertion portion (10). A claw (17) is formed to project in a tapered shape. This engaging claw (17) is elastically deformable outward, and the vertical wall (5) of the annular bulging portion (2) of the pipe (3) is formed on the tip surface (18) disposed in the insertion portion (10). ) Can be engaged.
[0027]
The large-diameter portion (12) faces both sides of the pair of engaging claws (17), opens an insertion window (20) in the axial direction, and inserts the insertion portion (10 through the insertion window (20). ), A connection confirmation member (21) for confirming whether the pipe (3) is connected or not can be inserted. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the connection confirmation member (21) is inserted into the insertion portion (10) through the insertion window (20) and can be disposed on both sides of the pipe (3). (22) and the connecting wall (23) connecting the rear ends of the pair of insertion walls (22) form a U-shape. In addition, the pair of insertion walls (22) is provided with an interval that is smaller than the outer diameter of the annular bulging portion (2) but can be arranged on both sides of the pipe (3), and has one engagement claw (17). The insertion window (20) on the side is inserted into the insertion section (10), and the tip is formed to be engageable with the insertion window (20) on the other engagement claw (17) side. The placement stability of the insertion wall (22) and the strength against impact are increased. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the connecting wall (23) has one end cut out into a tapered shape, and is provided with an insertion portion (19) such as a screwdriver, so that a connection confirmation member (21) from the connector body (1) is provided. It is easy to remove.
[0028]
In this embodiment, the connector body (1) is provided with a dust-proof cap member (26). The cap member (26) is made of a transparent or translucent synthetic resin or the like, and has a cylindrical portion (24) covering the outer periphery of the insertion portion (10) of the connector body (1) and an opening for inserting the pipe (3). The bottom portion (25) that covers the portion (13) is configured to prevent dust and dirt from entering the insertion portion (10) from the opening portion (13), the insertion window (20), the opening window (16), and the like. It can be prevented. The cylindrical portion (24) is provided with an insertion port (27) communicating with one insertion window (20) of the connector main body (1), and the insertion wall (22) is provided through the insertion port (27). It can be inserted into the insertion window (20) and the insertion portion (10).
[0029]
Further, in this embodiment, the insertion port (27) is not opened in advance, but as shown in FIGS. 1, 6, and 7, the insertion port (27) formation planned portion is formed thinly to form a pair of fragile portions. (28) is provided, and the insertion port (27) can be opened by breaking the fragile portion (28) at the tips of the pair of insertion walls (22). Therefore, when the connector main body (1) is transported or stored, there is no fear of dust and dirt entering from the insertion port (27). In order to facilitate the insertion of the insertion wall (22) into the insertion port (27), the cylindrical portion (24) faces the weakened portions (28) on both sides as shown in FIG. A mold guide wall (30) is arranged. By providing this guide wall (30), after the connector body (1) is mounted, the connection confirmation member (21) can be protected from impact and prevented from falling off. In the present embodiment, an engagement groove (31) is provided on the inner surface of the guide wall (30) on the weakened portion (28) side, as shown in FIG. 7, and an insertion wall is provided in the engagement groove (31). The engagement protrusion (32) of (22) can be engaged, and the connector main body (1) and the connection confirmation member (21) are prevented from being separated.
[0030]
The bottom (25) of the cap member (26) allows the pipe (3) to be inserted. However, if a plurality of cuts are made radially from the center of the bottom (25), the pipe (3) can be removed. At the time of insertion, the bottom part (25) does not open, and entry of dust / dust can be prevented. When the pipe (3) is inserted, the bottom part (25) is opened by expanding the radial cut, and the cap member (26) is not removed and is inserted into the insertion part (10) of the connector body (1). The pipe (3) can be inserted.
[0031]
In this embodiment, the cap member (26) and the connection confirmation member (21) are connected via a bendable connection body (36), so that the connection confirmation member (21) is lost or put into the vehicle body. It prevents falling and reduces the number of assembly parts.
[0032]
In order to connect the connector body (1) and the pipe (3) formed as described above, the pipe (3) is first connected to the opening (13) of the connector body (1) with the cap member (26) attached. It inserts in an insertion part (10) via. By this insertion, the annular bulging portion (2) of the pipe (3) abuts against the engaging claw (17), but the annular bulging portion (2) passes through the inner surface of the engaging claw (17) by continuing the insertion operation. While the engaging claw (17) is elastically deformed outward, the insertion path is expanded, and the annular bulging portion (2) can be moved to the distal end surface (18) side of the engaging claw (17). it can.
[0033]
When the annular bulging portion (2) moves to the distal end surface (18) side of the engaging claw (17) in this way, the distal end of the pipe (3) is inserted into the small diameter portion (11), and the seal ring member ( 14) closely adheres to the outer periphery of the pipe (3), and good sealing performance is maintained. Further, in the large diameter portion (12), the engaging claw (17) elastically deformed outward is restored in the axial direction, and as shown in FIG. 5, the vertical wall (5) of the annular bulging portion (2) is restored. ) Engages the front end surface (18) of the engaging claw (17). By this engagement, the pipe (3) is fixed in the insertion portion (10), and the connection between the connector main body (1) and the pipe (3) is completed.
[0034]
Next, the connection confirmation member (21) confirms whether the connector body (1) and the pipe (3) are connected properly. This connection confirmation can be performed with the cap member (26) attached, and the weakened portion (28) of the cap member (26) is broken at the tip of the insertion wall (22) of the connection confirmation member (21). The insertion port (27) is opened. An insertion wall (20) is inserted into the insertion portion (10) through the insertion port (27) and insertion windows (20) formed so as to face both engagement claws (17) of the connector main body (1). 22) is inserted.
[0035]
If the connector body (1) and the pipe (3) are well connected at the time of this insertion, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the connection confirmation member (21) has no problem with the insertion portion (10). It can be inserted into the pipe and placed on both sides of the pipe (3) with the end face of the insertion wall (22) facing the vertical wall (5) of the annular bulge (2). In this embodiment, since the insertion wall (22) is inserted from one insertion window (20) and the tip engages with the other insertion window (20), the inclination of the insertion wall (22) is not easy. Prevents sticking, increases stability, and provides superior strength against impact. When the insertion of the insertion wall (22) is completed, the engagement of the insertion wall (22) into the engaging groove (31) formed in the guide wall (30) of the cap member (26) as shown in FIG. Since the joint protrusion (32) is engaged, the connection confirmation member (21) is fixed, and the vertical wall (5) of the annular bulging portion (2) abuts against the end surface of the connection confirmation member (21). It is possible to prevent inadvertent dropping of the connection confirmation member (21) when the pipe (3) is used.
[0036]
However, when the connection between the connector body (1) and the pipe (3) is poor, the insertion wall (22) provided at a smaller interval than the outer shape of the annular bulge (2) is shown in FIGS. As shown in FIG. 9, since it hits the annular bulging portion (2), it cannot be inserted into the insertion portion (10). Therefore, the operator can clearly see whether the connector body (1) and the pipe (3) are connected or not, depending on whether or not the connection confirmation member (21) can be inserted, and is highly reliable. Connection confirmation is possible. Further, since it is not necessary to remove the cap member (26), the connection confirmation work is easy, and the dust resistance after the connection between the connector main body (1) and the pipe (3) is also kept good. Due to this dustproof effect, the contact portion between the annular bulge portion (2) and the engaging claw (17), the contact portion between the seal ring member (14) and bush member (15) and the pipe (3), and the pipe (3 ) Is prevented from entering dust and dust, and it is possible to prevent the wear of the pipe (3) and the deterioration of the sealing performance, and to smoothly flow the fluid in the pipe (3). .
[0037]
Further, the connection confirmation member (21) of the present invention can not only confirm the connection but also prevent the pipe (3) from coming off. That is, when a pulling force is applied to the pipe (3), the vertical wall (5) of the annular bulging portion (2) hits the tip surface (18) of the engaging claw (17) and is prevented from coming off. Furthermore, the vertical wall (5) of the annular bulging portion (2) abuts against the end surface of the insertion wall (22) of the connection confirmation member (21). Accordingly, the disconnection of the pipe (3) is prevented double and an excellent connection structure of the pipe (3) can be obtained.
[0038]
Other different embodiments will be described below. First, in the first embodiment, two pairs of insertion windows (20) are provided opposite to the connector body (1), and the insertion wall (22) is inserted into the insertion portion (10) from one insertion window (20). The tip of the insertion wall (22) is engaged with the other insertion window (20). On the other hand, in the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the insertion wall (22) is substantially half the length of the first embodiment, and the insertion window (20) for inserting the insertion wall (22) is also provided. Only one pair is provided.
[0039]
Further, in the first embodiment, the connection confirmation member (21) does not insert the insertion wall (22) into the insertion portion (10) before the connection confirmation as shown in FIGS. In the connection confirmation member (21) of the second embodiment, the tip of the insertion wall (22) is inserted into the insertion portion (10) through the insertion port (27) and the insertion window (20) as shown in FIG. Inserted in advance. Also in the second embodiment, the engagement protrusion (32) of the insertion wall (22) can be engaged with the engagement groove (31) provided in the guide wall (30) of the cap member (26). However, before the connection is confirmed, the engagement protrusion (32) and the engagement groove (31) are not engaged, and the insertion wall (22) can freely move up and down.
[0040]
When the pipe (3) is inserted into the connector main body (1) of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the annular bulging portion (2) is inserted into the insertion wall (22) disposed in the insertion portion (10). The taper wall (4) comes into contact. However, since the insertion wall (22) is short and can be freely moved up and down, the insertion wall (22) is pushed and moved outwardly by the tapered wall (4) of the annular bulging portion (2), and the insertion wall (22). Without being obstructed, the pipe (3) is inserted into the insertion part (10), and the front end face (18) of the engagement claw (17) is engaged with the vertical wall (5) of the annular bulge part (2). You can make it.
[0041]
Then, when the connection of the pipe (3) is completed, the connection is confirmed. However, since the connection confirmation member (21) is temporarily inserted into the insertion portion (10) in advance, the operator pivots the connecting wall (23). The operation is completed simply by pressing in the core direction to engage the engaging protrusion (32) and the engaging recess (31). Also in the case of the second embodiment, if the connector main body (1) and the pipe (3) are connected well, the connection confirmation member (21) is connected to the annular bulging portion (2) of the pipe (3). It is arranged on both sides of the part that is not provided, and can be mounted without any trouble, but if there is a connection failure, the connection confirmation member (21) hits the annular bulging portion (2) and cannot be mounted. The operator can easily check the connection failure between the connector body (1) and the pipe (3).
[0042]
Thus, in the second embodiment, it is possible to confirm the connection with high reliability, and compared with the first embodiment, the material of the connection confirmation member (21) and the insertion window (20) are formed. Save time and get a low-cost product. Further, although the strength is inferior to that of the insertion wall (22) of the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, when the pulling force acts on the pipe (3), the annular bulging portion (2) Since it hits the insertion wall (22), it also has an effect of preventing the pipe (3) from coming off.
[0043]
The insertion port (27) provided in the cap member (26) may be provided with a weakened portion (28) as in the first embodiment, but may be formed at the time of manufacture, and the connector body (1) Manufacture and connection confirmation work becomes easy. Further, since the insertion wall (22) is inserted into the insertion portion (10) in advance, it is possible to prevent dust and dirt from entering through the insertion port (27).
[0044]
In the first and second embodiments, only one connection confirmation member (21) is used. However, in the third embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, two connection confirmation members (21) are used. Provided. And each connection confirmation member (21) is inserted into the cap member (26) and the connector main body (1) from one side and the other side of the opening (13) and the insertion window (20). 10) It can be inserted in. Also in the third embodiment, as in the second embodiment, two connection confirmation members (21) are inserted in the insertion portion (10) in advance. And each connection confirmation member (21) is connected to the connection ring (37) with which the connector main body (1) outer periphery was mounted | worn via the biasing body (38) as a connection body (36). The urging body (38) constantly urges the connection confirmation member (21) inserted into the insertion portion (10) toward the inside of the insertion portion (10), and pushes the distal ends of the insertion walls (22) toward each other. I guess. The pair of urging members (38) and the connection ring (37) prevent the two connection confirmation members (21) from being detached from the connector main body (1).
[0045]
In the third embodiment, when the pipe (3) is inserted into the insertion part (10) of the connector body (1), the annular bulge part (2) hits the two insertion walls (22). If it continues, each insertion wall (22) will be pressed outward by the taper wall (4) of the annular bulging part (2), and the insertion wall (22) will be disengaged against the biasing force of the biasing body (38). Since it moves in the direction, as shown in FIG. 13, the insertion of the pipe (3) can be continued without any trouble, and the annular bulging portion (2) can be moved to the tip side from the insertion wall (22). When the connection between the connector body (1) and the pipe (3) is completed, the insertion wall (22) is restored and moved in the axial direction by the restoring force of the biasing body (38).
[0046]
If the pipe (3) is connected well to the connector body (1), both insertion walls (22) are securely inserted into the insertion portion (10) as shown in FIG. Rebutt each other's tip. However, if the connection of the pipe (3) is incomplete, the insertion wall (22) hits the annular bulge portion (2) and protrudes outward from the insertion portion (10). Therefore, the operator can clearly visually check whether the pipe (3) is connected or not. In addition, compared with the first and second embodiments, the connection ring (37) and the urging body (38) are manufactured and costly, but the pipe (3) is connected to the connector body (1). It is possible to perform connection confirmation work only by this, and the labor of the operator can be saved. Also, when a pulling force is applied to the pipe (3), the vertical wall (5) of the annular bulge (2) abuts against the two insertion walls (22), and the contact area is large, thus preventing high slipping. An effect is obtained.
[0047]
Moreover, although the connection confirmation member (21) of the said 1st-3rd Example has a connection confirmation function of piping (3) and a disconnection prevention function, 4th Example shown in FIGS. 14-16. Then, the connection confirmation member (21) is also provided with a release function of the pipe (3). The structure is such that a pair of insertion walls (22) of the connection confirmation member (21) can be inserted into the insertion portion (10) from the opening (13) of the connector body (1), so that the outer periphery of the insertion wall (22) is inserted. The surface is formed in an arc shape as shown in FIG. 15, and the tip of the insertion wall (22) can reach the tip surface (18) of the engaging claw (17) as shown in FIG. Length
[0048]
In the first to third embodiments, the insertion wall (22) is coupled by the coupling wall (23). However, in the fourth embodiment, the insertion in the connected state of the pipe (3) is not hindered. In addition, the insertion wall (22) is connected inseparably by a crescent-shaped connecting body (40). The connecting body (40) is connected to a connecting ring (37) mounted on the outer periphery of the connector main body (1) by a bendable connecting body (36), and the connecting body (36) is long. The insertion wall (22) is formed long so that it can be easily inserted into the insertion portion (10) from the opening (13). The connection confirmation member (21) may be connected to the cap member (26) through the connection body (36). However, by using the connection ring (37), the connection confirmation member (21) can be connected according to the purpose of use. The confirmation member (21) can be rotated to an arbitrary position.
[0049]
In the fourth embodiment, when the pipe (3) is not connected to the connector body (1), the connection confirmation member (21) is not inserted into the connector body (1) as in the first embodiment. After the connection of the pipe (3) to the connector body (1) is completed, the insertion work is performed. In order to enable insertion of a long insertion wall (22), the cap member (26) and the connector body (1) are provided with two pairs of insertion ports (27) and an insertion window (20) facing each other. ing. If the connection between the connector main body (1) and the pipe (3) is good, the insertion wall (22) can be inserted without any trouble. If the connection is poor, the insertion wall (22) is annularly expanded. Since it hits the section (2) and cannot be inserted, the operator can clearly check the connection. Further, since the insertion wall (22) is engaged with the two pairs of insertion ports (27) and the insertion window (20), the stability of the connection confirmation member (21) against the abutment of the annular bulging portion (2) is stabilized. It has high performance and strength, and is excellent in preventing the pipe (3) from coming off.
[0050]
Next, in order to detach the pipe (3) from the connector body (1) using the connection confirmation member (21) of the fourth embodiment, first, the insertion wall (22) is inserted from the insertion portion (10). Pull out. Next, after the insertion wall (22) is rotated 90 degrees in the circumferential direction and arranged parallel to the engaging claw (17), the insertion wall (22) is moved to the opening (13) side of the connector body (1). It moves and inserts an insertion wall (22) in an insertion part (10) through this opening part (13). When the insertion wall (22) is moved along the inner surfaces of the two engaging claws (17) of the connector body (1), the engaging claws (17) are elastically deformed outward as shown in FIG. The engagement between the engagement claw (17) and the annular bulge (2) is released. Therefore, the operator can easily extract the pipe (3) from the connector body (1).
[0051]
【The invention's effect】
Since the present invention is configured as described above, it is possible to clearly check whether the connection between the connector body and the pipe is good or bad by checking whether the connection confirmation member can be attached to the connector body. High connection confirmation is possible. Moreover, not only the connection check but also the inadvertent disconnection of the pipe can be prevented, so that the durability of the pipe connection structure is improved and the fluid can smoothly flow in the pipe. In addition, troubles such as providing two annular bulging portions on the pipe are not required, and failure of the apparatus due to deterioration of the pipe can be prevented. Further, the connection confirmation member can be easily manufactured with a simple structure, and a low-cost connector for small-diameter piping can be obtained as well as high performance.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a connector main body according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an insertion state of a connection confirmation member to the connector body.
FIG. 3 is a partially cutaway plan view of FIG. 2;
4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a connection confirmation member in a non-inserted state after pipe connection is completed.
6 is a partially cutaway plan view of FIG. 5. FIG.
7 is a sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a connection confirmation member has abutted against an annular bulging portion due to poor piping connection.
9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG.
FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing an insertion state of a connection confirmation member in the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a process of inserting a pipe into the connector body.
FIG. 12 is a sectional view showing an insertion state of a connection confirmation member in the third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the process of inserting a pipe into the connector body.
FIG. 14 is a sectional view showing an insertion state of a connection confirmation member in a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
15 is a partially cutaway plan view of FIG. 14. FIG.
FIG. 16 is a sectional view showing a state in which the connection confirmation member of the fourth embodiment is used as a pipe releaser.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Connector body
2 Annular bulge
3 Piping
6 Soft elastic tube
7 Connecting cylinder
10 Insertion part
17 engaging claw
18 Tip surface
20 Insertion window
21 Connection confirmation member
22 Insertion wall
26 Cap member
27 insertion slot
28 Vulnerable parts
36 connection body

Claims

A connecting body for connecting a soft elastic tube is provided on the front end side, and an insertion portion of a pipe provided with an annular bulging portion is provided on the rear end side and communicated from the front end to the rear end, and an annular bulging portion of the pipe Is arranged on both sides of the pipe in a state where it is inserted into the insertion part through an insertion window formed so as to face both sides of the engagement claw and the engagement claw. And a U-shaped connection confirmation member provided at an interval smaller than the outer diameter of the annular bulging portion.

A cap member provided with an insertion port communicating with the insertion window of the connector main body is attached to the outer periphery of the insertion portion of the connector main body, and a connection confirmation member can be inserted into the insertion port of the cap member. The small diameter pipe connection connector according to claim 1.

3. The connector for connecting a small-diameter pipe according to claim 2, wherein the insertion port of the cap member is covered with a fragile portion that can be broken by the tip of the connection confirmation member, and can be opened by breaking the fragile portion.

The connection confirmation member has a pair of insertion walls extending from the rear end of the connector main body to the tip of the engagement claw, and is inserted into the insertion portion from the rear end to deform the engagement claw outwardly. 2. The connector for connecting a small-diameter pipe according to claim 1, wherein the engagement of the engagement claw with the annular bulging portion of the pipe is disengageable.

5. The small diameter pipe connection connector according to claim 1, wherein the connection confirmation member is connected to the cap member or the connector main body via a connecting body so as to be bent.