JP6978067B2 - Electric valve - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an electric valve capable of performing an emergency operation by a spring force.

Patent Document 1 discloses a spring-return type electric emergency shutoff valve. The electric emergency shutoff valve includes an output shaft to which a valve body is connected, an electric motor, a transmission mechanism combining a plurality of gears, a mainspring, and an electromagnetic clutch brake. The electric motor and the mainspring are coupled to the transmission mechanism.
When the electric motor is energized, the rotation of the electric motor is transmitted to the output shaft via the transmission mechanism, whereby the valve body opens the flow path. At the same time, the rotation of the electric motor is transmitted to the mainspring via the transmission mechanism, and the mainspring is wound. As a result, the mainspring gives a force to the transmission mechanism to urge the valve body in the closing direction. When the valve body reaches full throttle, the energization of the electric motor is stopped, and the electromagnetic clutch brake is energized to put it in a braking state, and the electric motor shaft is fixed. As a result, the valve body is kept in an open state against the urging force of the mainspring.

In the event of a power failure, the drive current to the electromagnetic clutch brake disappears, so that the electromagnetic clutch brake is released and the electric motor shaft is released. Then, the urging force of the mainspring is transmitted to the valve body via the transmission mechanism, and the valve body is driven in the closing direction as the mainspring expands. As a result, the flow path is urgently blocked. Since the valve closing operation due to the extension of the mainspring is faster than the valve closing operation due to the rotation of the electric motor, it is suitable for emergency shutoff of the flow path.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2012-21989

A spring-return type emergency shutoff valve may be unsuitable for an emergency shutoff valve that should be shut off in response to a signal because it is emergency shut off by a spring force when a power failure occurs. For example, in an application where the flow path should be cut off in response to a detection signal of a seismic sensor that detects an earthquake of a predetermined seismic intensity or higher, the flow path may need to be open even during a power failure. Therefore, a spring-return type emergency shutoff valve that shuts off in response to a power failure and then stops responding to the detection signal of the seismic sensor is not always appropriate.

The seismic sensor is equipped with, for example, a microswitch that is operated by a weight in the event of an earthquake. If this micro switch is connected in series with the power supply line of the electromagnetic clutch brake, the power supply to the electromagnetic clutch brake can be stopped in response to the earthquake detection by the seismic sensor, and the emergency shutoff can be performed by the urging force of the mainspring. However, in the event of a power outage, an emergency shutoff operation is started regardless of the operation of the seismic sensor.

This problem is a configuration in which an uninterruptible power supply that generates electric power even during a power failure is connected to the electromagnetic clutch brake, and a micro switch of a seismic sensor is connected in series to the power supply line from the uninterruptible power supply to the electromagnetic clutch brake. Can be solved by. However, since it is impossible to secure a space for the uninterruptible power supply in the electric valve main body, it is necessary to separately prepare an uninterruptible power supply and prepare it for an operation panel or the like located away from the electric valve main body. .. Of course, by providing an uninterruptible power supply, a significant cost increase is inevitable.

Furthermore, since it is necessary to continue to flow the electric power for keeping the electromagnetic clutch brake in the braking state, there is a problem that the electric power consumption increases with the passage of time.
Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide an electric valve that can realize a spring-type emergency operation that responds to an external signal regardless of the presence or absence of a power failure with an inexpensive configuration.

One embodiment of the present invention can operate in a valve body that opens and closes a flow path, a closing direction that is coupled to the valve body and closes the flow path by the valve body, and an opening direction that opens the flow path by the valve body. An output shaft, an electric motor driven by an external power source, a transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the electric motor to the output shaft, and a transmission mechanism that is coupled to the transmission mechanism and wound up and wound up by the rotation of the electric motor. In this state, the output shaft is urged in either the closed direction or the open direction via the transmission mechanism in the spring operating direction, and the spring is urged by the urging force of the spring in a non-excited state. A non-excited actuated electromagnetic brake that is in a braking state that prohibits the operation of the output shaft and is in a non-braking state in which the braking state is released in the excited state, and a storage that stores the brake exciting power to be supplied to the non-excited actuated electromagnetic brake. By conducting the unit, the first brake release switch that opens and closes the circuit between the power storage unit and the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake, and the first brake release switch in response to the valve operation command signal. Provided is an electric valve including a control circuit for supplying an exciting current from the power storage unit to the non-excited actuated electromagnetic brake.

According to this configuration, if the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake is put into a braking state after the spring is wound by the rotation of the electric motor, the wound state of the spring can be maintained without energizing the electric motor. Moreover, since the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake is in the braking state in the non-excitation state in which the exciting current is not supplied, the electric power for maintaining the braking state is not required. When an exciting current is supplied to the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake, the braking state is released, and the energy stored in the spring is released. The released energy is transmitted to the output shaft via the transmission mechanism, and causes the output shaft to operate in the spring operating direction. Thereby, the valve body can be operated in the spring operating direction (opening direction or closing direction) by the urging force of the spring. Therefore, it is possible to realize an emergency operation (emergency shutoff or emergency open) using the spring force.

On the other hand, the electric valve of the present invention is provided with a power storage unit. That is, the power storage unit is built in the electric valve. When the valve operation command signal is input, the control circuit conducts the first braking release switch, whereby an exciting current is supplied from the power storage unit to the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake. As a result, the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake is in the excited state, that is, the non-braking state, so that the energy stored in the spring can be released and the valve body can be urgently actuated.

Since the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake can maintain the braking state without requiring power supply, the power storage unit is a brake sufficient to operate the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake only for the time when the valve is urgently actuated by the energy of the spring. It suffices if the exciting power can be stored. Therefore, since a large-capacity power storage unit is not required, a small power storage unit that can be provided in the electric valve can be used, and the cost is not high.

In this way, an electric valve capable of realizing a spring-type emergency operation in response to an external signal (valve operation command signal) is provided with an inexpensive configuration regardless of the presence or absence of a power failure (disconnection of external power supply).
In one embodiment of the invention, the motorized valve further comprises a charging circuit that charges the power storage unit with electric power supplied from the external power source.
With this configuration, the power storage unit can be charged by an external power source for driving the electric motor, so that a rechargeable power storage unit can be used. Therefore, since a small capacity storage unit can be applied, the power storage unit can be more easily incorporated into the electric valve. Further, by using the rechargeable power storage unit, it is possible to reduce the time and effort for maintenance such as replacement of the power storage unit.

In one embodiment of the invention, the motorized valve further comprises a second brake release switch that opens and closes a circuit connecting the external power source and the non-excited actuated electromagnetic brake. Further, when the power from the external power supply is supplied, the control circuit causes the second braking release switch to conduct the second braking release switch in response to the valve operation command signal, whereby the non-excitation operation is performed from the external power supply. When the exciting current is supplied to the type electromagnetic brake and the power from the external power source is not supplied, the first braking release switch is made conductive in response to the valve operation command signal, whereby the power storage unit is said to be said. Exciting current is supplied to the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake.

According to this configuration, when an external power source is supplied, that is, when a power failure does not occur, the braking state of the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake is released by the electric power from the external power source, and an emergency using the spring force is used. It can be operated. On the other hand, when a power failure occurs, the electric power stored in the power storage unit can be used to release the braking state of the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake to perform an emergency operation using the spring force. In this way, when a power failure does not occur, the spring-type emergency operation can be performed without reducing the stored power of the power storage unit.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the control circuit detects the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electricity storage unit, and when the remaining amount of electricity is reduced to the remaining amount threshold value or less than the remaining amount threshold value, the valve operation command signal is input. Even if it is not present, the first braking release switch is made conductive to supply an exciting current from the power storage unit to the non-excited actuated electromagnetic brake.
According to this configuration, when the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electricity storage unit drops below the remaining amount threshold value or the remaining amount threshold value, the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake is operated by the power supply from the electricity storage unit regardless of the presence or absence of the valve operation command signal. It becomes a non-braking state, and an emergency operation using the spring force is performed. As a result, the emergency operation will not be disabled due to insufficient storage capacity of the power storage unit.

For example, even if the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electricity storage unit decreases as the power failure time elapses, a spring-type emergency that responds to the valve operation command signal before the remaining amount of electricity is reduced to the remaining amount threshold value or less than the remaining amount threshold value. Operation is guaranteed. Therefore, by appropriately determining the capacity of the power storage unit and the remaining amount threshold value, it is possible to guarantee the emergency operation in response to the valve operation command signal even during a power failure for the required guaranteed time.

The remaining amount of electricity stored in the electricity storage unit may be detected by detecting the voltage generated by the electricity storage unit. Further, the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electricity storage unit can be detected by detecting the current flowing in and out of the electricity storage unit. Further, when the remaining amount of the power storage unit decreases with the lapse of the power failure time, the remaining amount of electricity stored in the power storage unit may be indirectly measured by measuring the power failure duration. In other words, instead of directly detecting the remaining amount of electricity stored, the power failure duration is measured, and when the power failure duration reaches a predetermined threshold value (for example, the operation guarantee time during a power failure), the control circuit releases the first braking. By conducting the switch, the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake may be excited to release the braking state.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the operating power of the control circuit is supplied from the power storage unit. With this configuration, the control circuit can be operated properly even in the event of a power failure. Therefore, in response to the input of the valve operation command signal, the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake is controlled to the non-braking state, and the spring. Emergency operation by force can be performed.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the transmission mechanism can transmit the rotation of the electric motor to the output shaft when the spring is wound up and the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake is in the non-excitation state (braking state). It is configured in. According to this configuration, the valve body can be opened and closed by driving the electric motor in a state where the spring is wound up. Therefore, the valve body can be opened and closed, and the opening degree can be adjusted to an arbitrary opening degree between fully open and fully closed.

In one embodiment of the invention, the electricity storage unit comprises an electric double layer capacitor. In this configuration, by using the electric double layer capacitor, the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake can be reliably actuated to perform emergency actuation, and maintenance labor can be reduced. Since the electric double layer capacitor has a mechanism to charge and discharge without a chemical reaction, it has a much longer life than a general storage battery, and there is almost no deterioration or shortening of the life due to charging and discharging. It is virtually maintenance-free. Moreover, since quick charging is possible, the electric power required to operate the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake can be quickly stored. Further, by using an electric double layer capacitor, a compact and lightweight configuration can be obtained.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the power storage unit is housed in a housing together with the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake. With this configuration, a small electric valve can be configured by accommodating the power storage unit in the housing together with the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake. The control circuit may be further housed in the housing. An electric motor may be further housed in the housing. Further, a transmission mechanism may be further housed in the housing.

It is a perspective view for demonstrating the structure of the electric valve which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the electric structure of the electric valve. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the operation of the control circuit provided in the electric valve, and shows the preparatory operation. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the operation of the control circuit after a preparatory operation, and shows the signal monitoring operation which responds to the state of a signal contact. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the electric valve which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a main part perspective view for demonstrating the operation of the electric valve which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the electric structure of the electric valve which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the operation of the control circuit provided in the electric valve which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment, and shows the preparatory operation. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the operation which the control circuit executes after the preparation operation in the electric valve of the 2nd Embodiment, and shows the signal monitoring operation which responds to the state of a signal contact.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view for explaining the structure of an electric valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electric valve 100 includes a valve body 1, an output shaft 2 (valve rod) to which the valve body 1 is coupled to the tip, an electric motor M, and a transmission mechanism 3 for transmitting the rotation of the electric motor M to the output shaft 2. It includes a spring 4 coupled to a transmission mechanism 3 and a non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake B.

The valve body 1 is configured to open and close the flow path 5. For example, the valve body 1 may be a ball valve or a butterfly valve that rotates within a range of 90 degrees in the flow path 5 in the valve box to open and close the flow path 5. A stopper plate 6 is fixed to the output shaft 2. A pair of stopper bolts 7 are arranged so as to face the stopper plate 6. The pair of stopper bolts 7 are arranged so as to abut on the stopper plate 6 at the fully open position and the fully closed position of the output shaft 2 to regulate the rotation of the output shaft 2. The fully open position is a position where the valve body 1 is in a fully open state, and a fully closed position is a position where the valve body 1 is in a fully closed state.

The driving force of the electric motor M is output from the pinion 9 via the gear head 8 (reduction gear). A spur gear 10 is fixed in the middle of the output shaft 2. The transmission mechanism 3 includes a plurality of transmission gears 11 that slow down the rotation of the pinion 9, amplify the torque, and transmit the torque to the spur gear 10. The spring 4 is coupled to the gear shaft 12 of one transmission gear 11 (in this embodiment, the transmission gear 11 that meshes with the spur gear 10 of the output shaft 2) constituting the transmission mechanism 3. The spring 4 is a mainspring spring in this embodiment, but a torsion spring can also be applied. The spring 4 is attached so as to urge the output shaft 2 in the closing direction (an example of the spring operating direction), which is the closing direction of the valve body 1, for example.

Further, two cams 13 are fixed to the output shaft 2. Fully open detection limit switches LS1 and LS2 are engaged with these cams 13, respectively. The fully open detection limit switches LS1 and LS2 are arranged so as to be pushed by the cam 13 in the rotation phase of the output shaft 2 when the valve body 1 is in the fully open position to detect the fully open position.
In this embodiment, the electromagnetic brake B is coupled to the electric motor M and is configured to brake the rotation shaft of the electric motor M. The electromagnetic brake B is composed of a non-excitation actuated electromagnetic clutch brake. That is, in the non-excited state in which the exciting current is not energized, the rotating shaft of the electric motor M is braked, and the rotating shaft is fixed in the non-rotating state. On the other hand, in the excited state in which the exciting current is applied, the electromagnetic brake B is in the non-braking state, and the rotating shaft of the electric motor M is released to allow the rotating shaft to rotate.

Specifically, the electromagnetic brake B crimps the disc assembly coupled to the rotating shaft of the electric motor M, the armature to be separated from the disc assembly, the field containing the exciting coil, and the armature to the disc assembly. Includes coil springs. In the non-excited state where the exciting coil is not energized, the armature crimps the disc assembly by the spring force of the coil spring, resulting in a braking state in which the brake is applied. When the exciting coil is energized, the armature is attracted to the field against the spring force of the coil spring to release the crimp to the disc assembly, thereby releasing the braking and allowing the disc assembly to rotate.

The electric motor M, the electromagnetic brake B, the transmission mechanism 3, and the like are housed in the housing 14 as shown by the alternate long and short dash line. A wiring board 15 on which circuit components constituting the control circuit K1 and the like are mounted is housed in the housing 14. An electric double layer capacitor EC, which is an example of a power storage unit, is mounted on the wiring board 15.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the electrical configuration of the electric valve 100. The electric valve 100 includes a power supply circuit U1, a charging circuit K2, an electric double layer capacitor EC, a control circuit K1, and first to third switches SW1 to SW3. The first to third switches SW1 to SW3 may be semiconductor switches such as field effect transistors. The electric motor M is, for example, an AC motor (induction motor). For example, the electric motor M includes a main winding and an auxiliary winding, one end thereof is commonly connected, and a phase advancing capacitor C is connected between the other ends thereof.

The two power lines 21 and 22 connected to the electric motor M are connected to the power supply connection terminals T1 and T2, respectively. A fully open detection limit switch LS1 is interposed in one of the power lines 21. The first switch SW1 is interposed in the other power line 22. The power supply circuit U1 is connected to the pair of power lines 21 and 22. The power supply circuit U1 may be a DC power supply circuit including, for example, an AC / DC (alternating current / direct current) converter.

An electromagnetic brake B is connected to the power supply circuit U1 via a first DC power supply line 31. A second switch SW2 is interposed in the first DC power supply line 31. A first diode D1 for preventing backflow is interposed in the first DC power supply line 31 between the second switch SW2 and the power supply circuit U1. A charging circuit K2 is connected to the first DC power supply line 31 between the first diode D1 and the second switch SW2. The charging circuit K2 constitutes, for example, a constant current circuit. The charging circuit K2 may be a constant current circuit using a general-purpose power supply IC, or may have a configuration in which charging efficiency is enhanced by using a switching power supply.

The charging circuit K2 is connected to the electromagnetic brake B via the second DC power supply line 32. The second DC power supply line 32 bypasses the second switch SW2 and is connected to the electromagnetic brake B. A third switch SW3 is interposed in the second DC power supply line 32. That is, the second and third switches SW2 and SW3 are connected in parallel with the electromagnetic brake B.
An electric double layer capacitor EC is connected to the second DC power supply line 32 between the charging circuit K2 and the third switch SW3. Therefore, the electric double layer capacitor EC is charged by the current from the charging circuit K2. Further, when the third switch SW3 is in a conductive state, the electric double layer capacitor EC supplies an exciting current to the electromagnetic brake B.

The third switch SW3 is an example of the first braking release switch in one embodiment of the present invention. Further, the second switch SW2 is an example of the second braking release switch in one embodiment of the present invention.
On the other hand, between the power supply circuit U1 and the first diode D1, the third DC power supply line 33 is connected to the first DC power supply line 31. The third DC power supply line 33 supplies the power from the first DC power supply line 31 to the control circuit K1. A second diode D2 for preventing backflow is interposed in the third DC power supply line 33. A fourth DC power supply line 34 is further connected to the control circuit K1. The fourth DC power supply line 34 supplies operating power from the electric double layer capacitor EC to the control circuit K1. A third diode D3 for preventing backflow is connected to the fourth DC power supply line 34.

The cathode side of the second diode D2 and the third diode D3 are commonly connected to the fifth DC power supply line 35 to form a diode OR circuit, and the fifth DC power supply line 35 is connected to the control circuit K1. Therefore, power is supplied to the control circuit K1 from the power supply circuit U1 or the electric double layer capacitor EC.
In the event of a power failure, the power supply circuit U1 does not generate a DC voltage. At this time, the first diode D1 and the second diode D2 block the current from the electric double layer capacitor EC toward the power supply circuit U1 and suppress the discharge of the electric double layer capacitor EC.

The control circuit K1 monitors the voltage of the third DC power supply line 33 via the first voltage detection line 41, that is, the output voltage of the power supply circuit U1. Further, the control circuit K1 detects the voltage of the fourth DC power supply line 34 via the second voltage detection line 42, that is, the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC, thereby storing the remaining electricity of the electric double layer capacitor EC. Detect the amount. A fully open detection limit switch LS2 is connected to the control circuit K1, whereby the control circuit K1 detects that the valve body 1 is in the fully open position.

The control circuit K1 controls opening and closing of the first, second and third switches SW1, SW2 and SW3. The control circuit K1 is connected to the signal input terminals TS1 and TS2. The control circuit K1 includes, for example, a microcomputer and executes a control operation according to a program introduced in advance. Specifically, the electromagnetic brake B is operated by controlling the opening and closing of the second and third switches SW2 and SW3 according to the states of the signal input terminals TS1 and TS2.

The electric valve 100 is used by being connected to an operation panel 50 arranged at a place different from the electric valve 100 via a power cable 25 and a signal cable 26. The power cable 25 is connected to the AC power supply 51. An operation switch CS1 is interposed between the AC power supply 51 and the power cable 25. The signal cable 26 is connected to the signal contact ES. The signal contact ES may be, for example, a normally open contact of a micro switch provided in a seismic sensor.

The seismic sensor is configured to, for example, conduct the normally open contact (signal contact ES) of the micro switch in response to a seismic intensity of a predetermined value or higher. More specifically, the seismic sensor is a steel ball, a ball receiver that supports the steel ball, a saucer that can be moved up and down so as to surround the ball receiver, and a micro that is operated by the lowering of the saucer. Including switches. When the steel ball falls from the ball receiver and is received by the saucer due to the earthquake motion, the saucer descends and operates the micro switch. As a result, the signal contact ES becomes conductive and an earthquake is detected.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the control circuit K1 and shows the preparatory operation. In the initial state where the power is not turned on, the valve body 1 is in the initial position (fully open position or fully closed position. Here, the fully closed position). The fully open detection limit switches LS1 and LS2 are both in a conductive state, which corresponds to a non-detection state in which full open detection is not detected. Further, it is assumed that the signal contact ES is in the cutoff state (undetected state). The first to third switches SW1 to SW3 are all in the cutoff state. Since the electromagnetic brake B is not supplied with the exciting current, it is in a braking state.

When the operation switch CS1 is operated and the power is turned on, the power from the AC power supply 51 is supplied from the power cable 25 to the electric valve 100 and led out to the power lines 21 and 22. As a result, the power supply circuit U1 operates to supply a DC operating voltage (for example, 24V) to the control circuit K1, so that the control circuit K1 starts operating. On the other hand, the charging circuit K2 starts charging the electric double layer capacitor EC. The electric double layer capacitor EC is charged quickly (for example, in a few seconds).

The control circuit K1 checks the state of the fully open detection limit switch LS2 (step S1). If the fully open detection limit switch LS2 is not fully open (step S1: NO), the control circuit K1 conducts the first switch SW1 and the second switch SW2 (steps S2 and S3). As a result, the electric motor M rotates, and the electromagnetic brake B is excited to release the brake. A current is supplied to the electromagnetic brake B from the power supply circuit U1 through the first diode D1 and the second switch SW2.

Since the rotation of the electric motor M is transmitted to the output shaft 2 by the transmission mechanism 3, the valve body 1 rotates toward full opening. At the same time, the spring 4 is wound by the rotation of the transmission gear 11. When the valve body 1 rotates to the fully open position, the fully open detection limit switch LS1 opens to cut off the power supply to the electric motor M. On the other hand, since it is detected by the fully open detection limit switch LS2 that the output shaft 2 has reached the fully open position (step S1: YES), in response to this, the control circuit K1 shuts off the first switch SW1 and the motor. The drive circuit is disconnected (step S4). At the same time, the control circuit K1 shuts off the second switch SW2 to degauss the electromagnetic brake B (step S5). As a result, the electromagnetic brake B is in a braking state (non-excited state) and locks the output shaft 2 in a non-rotating state. In this way, the electric valve 100 is held in the fully open state.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the control circuit K1 after the preparatory operation, and shows a signal monitoring operation in response to the state of the signal contact ES. When the preparatory operation is completed, the control circuit K1 determines whether or not it is in a power failure state by monitoring whether or not the output voltage of the power supply circuit U1 exceeds the power supply voltage threshold value (step S11).
When the output voltage of the power supply circuit U1 exceeds the power supply voltage threshold value (step S11: YES), and therefore the signal contact ES is in the conduction state (detection state) when no power failure occurs (step S12: YES), control is performed. The circuit K1 conducts the second switch SW2 to excite the electromagnetic brake B (step S13). As a result, the electromagnetic brake B is in the non-braking state, so that the locked state of the transmission mechanism 3 is released. Therefore, the transmission gear 11 is rotated by the urging force of the spring 4, and the rotation is transmitted to the output shaft 2 via the spur gear 10 to rotate the valve body 1 in the closing direction. Thereby, the emergency shutoff operation (emergency operation) is achieved. The control circuit K1 cuts off the second switch SW2 after conducting the second switch SW2 for a set operating time longer than a sufficient time for the valve body 1 to be fully closed (step S14: YES). Then, the power supply to the electromagnetic brake B is cut off (step S15).

When the output voltage of the power supply circuit U1 is equal to or lower than the power supply voltage threshold value and it is determined that a power failure state is established (step S11: NO), in the control circuit K1, the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC exceeds a predetermined capacitor voltage threshold value. It is determined whether or not the capacitor is present (step S16). This determination is a determination as to whether or not the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC exceeds a predetermined remaining amount threshold value.

When the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC exceeds the capacitor voltage threshold value (step S16: YES) and the signal contact ES is in the conduction state (detection state) (step S17: YES), the control circuit K1 is set to the first. 3 Make the switch SW3 conductive (step S18). As a result, the electric power stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC is supplied to the electromagnetic brake B. As a result, the electromagnetic brake B is in the non-braking state, so that the locked state of the transmission mechanism 3 is released. Therefore, the transmission gear 11 is rotated by the urging force of the spring 4, and the rotation is transmitted to the output shaft 2 via the gear to rotate the valve body 1 in the closing direction. Thereby, the emergency shutoff operation (emergency operation) is achieved. The control circuit K1 cuts off the third switch SW3 after conducting the third switch SW3 for an operating time set to be sufficient for the valve body 1 to be fully closed (step S19: YES). Then, the power supply to the electromagnetic brake B is cut off (step S20).

When the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC is equal to or less than the capacitor voltage threshold value (step S16: NO), the control circuit K1 conducts the third switch SW3 regardless of the state of the signal contact ES (step S18). .. As a result, in the same manner as described above, the electromagnetic brake B is excited by the power supply from the electric double layer capacitor EC to be in the non-braking state, and the emergency shutoff operation is performed by the urging force of the spring 4 (steps S18 to S18). S20). In this way, when the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC decreases, an emergency shutoff operation is automatically performed to ensure safety.

The capacitor voltage threshold is the remaining capacity that can excite the electromagnetic brake B by supplying power from the electric double layer capacitor EC and maintain the excited state (non-braking state) until the valve body 1 rotates to the fully closed position. Is determined to be left in the electric double layer capacitor EC. Further, the full charge capacity of the electric double layer capacitor EC and the capacitor voltage threshold value of the electric double layer capacitor EC are set for a predetermined operation guarantee time (for example, 24 hours) during a power failure after charging from the charging circuit K2 is stopped. The output voltage is determined to be maintained above the capacitor voltage threshold.

At the time of a power failure, the control circuit K1 is operated by the electric power supplied from the electric double layer capacitor EC, and some electric power is also consumed in the first to third switches SW1 to SW2 composed of semiconductor switches. As a result, as the power failure time becomes longer, the electric power stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC is consumed, and the remaining amount of the stored electricity decreases. In such a situation, the electric double layer capacitor EC has a sufficient storage remaining amount to excite the electromagnetic brake B to perform an emergency shutoff operation when the guaranteed operation time during a power failure has elapsed. There is.

As described above, according to this embodiment, after the spring 4 is wound up by the rotation of the electric motor M, the energization of the electric motor M is stopped and the energization of the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake B is stopped. Will be done. As a result, the wound state of the spring 4 can be maintained without energizing either the electric motor M or the electromagnetic brake B.
When the signal contact ES conducts, the control circuit K1 interprets this as an input of a valve operation command signal and conducts the second switch SW2 or the third switch SW3. As a result, the exciting current is supplied to the electromagnetic brake B from the power supply circuit U1 or the electric double layer capacitor EC. As a result, the braking state of the electromagnetic brake B is released, and the energy stored in the spring 4 is released. The rotational force generated by the spring 4 is transmitted to the output shaft 2 via the transmission mechanism 3, and the output shaft 2 operates in the closed direction (spring operating direction). In this way, in response to the input from the signal contact ES (input of the valve operation command signal), the emergency shutoff operation (emergency operation) using the urging force of the spring 4 can be realized.

The electric valve 100 has a built-in electric double layer capacitor EC as a power storage unit for storing brake excitation power to be supplied to the electromagnetic brake B in the event of a power failure. Since the non-excitation-operated electromagnetic brake B can maintain the braking state without requiring power supply, the electric double-layer capacitor EC excites the electromagnetic brake B only for the time when the electric valve 100 is urgently operated by the energy of the spring 4. It is only necessary to be able to store enough electricity. Therefore, it is not necessary to use a large-capacity storage battery, and the electric double layer capacitor EC can sufficiently store the required power. Moreover, since it is not necessary to provide a large-capacity electric double capacitor, a small one that can be built in the electric valve 100 is sufficient, and the cost is not high.

In this way, an electric valve 100 is provided that can realize a spring-type emergency operation (emergency shutoff in this embodiment) in response to a signal contact ES regardless of the presence or absence of a power failure with an inexpensive configuration.
In addition, since the electric double layer capacitor EC has a mechanism for charging and discharging without a chemical reaction, it has a much longer life than a general storage battery, and deterioration and shortening of life due to charging and discharging are almost the same. Since there is no such thing, it is virtually maintenance-free. Moreover, since quick charging is possible, the electric power required to operate the electromagnetic brake B can be quickly stored. Further, since the electric double layer capacitor EC can be easily accommodated in the space inside the housing 14 included in the electric valve 100, a small electric valve 100 can be configured.

Further, in this embodiment, when a power failure does not occur, the second switch SW2 is made conductive in response to the input from the signal contact ES, so that the braking state of the electromagnetic brake B is set by the electric power from the external AC power source 51. It is released and an emergency operation using spring force is performed. Therefore, when a power failure does not occur, the spring-type emergency operation can be performed without reducing the electric power stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC.

Further, in this embodiment, the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC is monitored by detecting the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC. Then, when the remaining storage amount decreases and the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC becomes equal to or less than the capacitor voltage threshold value, the third switch SW3 conducts, and the exciting current is supplied from the electric double layer capacitor EC to the electromagnetic brake B. To. As a result, emergency shutoff (emergency operation) using spring force is executed. As a result, it is possible to prevent the emergency operation from becoming impossible due to insufficient storage capacity of the electric double layer capacitor EC. On the other hand, even after a power failure, an emergency cutoff (emergency operation) in response to an input from the signal contact ES can be guaranteed during the period when the electric double layer capacitor EC has a sufficient remaining charge.

Further, in this embodiment, the operating power of the control circuit K1 is supplied from the electric double layer capacitor EC in the event of a power failure. Therefore, even in the event of a power failure, the control circuit K1 can be operated appropriately, so that the electromagnetic brake B is controlled to the non-braking state in response to the input from the signal contact ES, and an emergency cutoff by a spring force is performed. (Emergency operation) can be performed.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the electric valve 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 6A to 6C are perspective views of a main part for explaining the operation. In the drawings illustrating this embodiment, the corresponding parts of the parts described with respect to the motorized valve 100 of the first embodiment described above are indicated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate description is omitted.

The electric valve 200 includes a valve body 1, an output shaft 2 having a valve body 1 coupled to the tip thereof, an electric motor M, a transmission mechanism 60 for transmitting the rotation of the electric motor M to the output shaft 2, and a transmission mechanism 60. Includes a spring 4 coupled to and an electromagnetic brake B. The transmission mechanism 60 includes a planetary gear mechanism 61 in this embodiment. The valve body 1 opens and closes the flow path 5 (see FIG. 6A and the like) by rotating the output shaft 2 (valve rod) by 90 degrees, for example. The valve body 1 may be a ball valve or a butterfly valve.

A stopper plate 6 is fixed to the output shaft 2. A pair of stopper bolts 7 are arranged so as to face the stopper plate 6. The pair of stopper bolts 7 are arranged so as to abut on the stopper plate 6 at the fully open position and the fully closed position of the output shaft 2 to regulate the rotation of the output shaft 2. The fully open position is a position where the valve body 1 is in a fully open state, and a fully closed position is a position where the valve body 1 is in a fully closed state.

The planetary gear mechanism 61 includes an internal gear 62 having inner peripheral teeth and outer peripheral teeth, a plurality of planetary gears 63 arranged so as to mesh with the inner peripheral teeth of the internal gear 62, and a plurality of the planetary gears 63. Includes a carrier 64 that rotatably supports each of the planetary gears 63 and a sun gear 65 that meshes with a plurality of planetary gears 63. The carrier 64 is fixed to the output shaft 2 and rotates integrally with the output shaft 2. The internal gear 62 is rotatably coupled to the output shaft 2 via a bearing 66. A reduction gear 67 meshes with the outer peripheral teeth of the internal gear 62, and a pinion 9 of a gear head 8 meshes with the reduction gear 67. The sun gear 65 is fixed to the outer periphery of the sleeve 68 through which the output shaft 2 is penetrated. The sleeve 68 is rotatably coupled to the output shaft 2 via a bearing 69. Therefore, the sun gear 65 is rotatable relative to the output shaft 2.

A relay gear 70 is fixed to the sleeve 68 together with the sun gear 65. That is, the sun gear 65 is connected to the relay gear 70 via the sleeve 68, and rotates integrally with the relay gear 70. The sun gear 65 and the relay gear 70 may be integrally formed.
The relay gear 70 meshes with the spring drive gear 71. The spring drive gear 71 is fixed to the central shaft 72 of the spring 4 (spring in this embodiment). A gear 73 is provided on the spring center shaft 72 (spring drive shaft). This gear 73 is meshed with another gear 75 fixed to the cam shaft 74. A cam 76 is fixed to the cam shaft 74, and the winding detection limit switch LS13 is engaged with the cam 76. When the winding of the spring 4 is completed, the winding detection limit switch LS13 is pushed by the cam 76 to detect the completion of winding of the spring 4.

A reduction gear 77 is further meshed with the spring drive gear 71, and a gear 78 fixed to the drive shaft of the electromagnetic brake B is meshed with the reduction gear 77. The electromagnetic brake B is a non-excitation actuated type as in the case of the first embodiment described above.
A plurality of cams 79 are coupled to the output shaft 2. Further, a plurality of limit switches corresponding to the plurality of cams 79 are provided. The plurality of limit switches include a fully open detection limit switch LS11 that operates and shuts off at the fully open position of the output shaft 2, a fully closed detection limit switch LS12 that operates and shuts off at the fully closed position of the output shaft 2.

The electric motor M, the electromagnetic brake B, the transmission mechanism 60, and the like are housed in the housing 14 as shown by the alternate long and short dash line. A wiring board 15 on which circuit components constituting the control circuit K1 and the like are mounted is housed in the housing 14. An electric double layer capacitor EC, which is an example of a power storage unit, is mounted on the wiring board 15.
The outline of the operation of the electric valve 200 is shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C, and is as outlined below. In addition, in order to facilitate understanding, in FIGS. 6A to 6B showing each of the plurality of states, the members whose rotation is restricted are shaded.

When using the electric valve 200, the gear winding operation shown in FIG. 6A is performed. In the initial state where the power is not turned on, the valve body 1 is in the initial position. The initial position is the fully closed position or the fully open position. Hereinafter, the fully closed position will be described as the initial position. In the initial state, the stopper bolt 7 is in contact with the stopper plate 6, whereby the rotation of the output shaft 2 in the closed direction (clockwise rotation in FIG. 6A) is restricted. In this state, the electromagnetic brake B is energized to put it in a non-braking state, and the electric motor M is driven in the winding direction. As a result, the pinion 9 rotates, and the rotation is transmitted to the internal gear 62 via the reduction gear 67. Then, the internal gear 62 rotates in the closing direction (clockwise direction in FIG. 6A). This rotation is transmitted to the planetary gear 63. Since the revolution of the planetary gear 63, that is, the rotation of the carrier 64 fixed to the output shaft 2 is regulated by the stopper bolt 7, the planetary gear 63 rotates without revolving. The rotation of the planetary gear 63 causes the sun gear 65 to rotate in the winding direction (counterclockwise direction in FIG. 6A). The rotation of the sun gear 65 is transmitted to the spring drive gear 71 via the relay gear 70, causing the rotation of the spring center shaft 72. As a result, the spring 4 is wound up.

When the winding of the spring 4 is completed, the electromagnetic brake B is put into a braking state by cutting off the energization of the electromagnetic brake B. Since the braking force is transmitted to the spring central shaft 72 via the reduction gear 77 and the spring drive gear 71, the spring 4 is held in a wound state. Further, since the braking force is further transmitted from the spring drive gear 71 to the relay gear 70, the rotation of the sun gear 65 connected to the relay gear 70 is restricted.

When the electric motor M is driven in the open direction in this state, the internal gear 62 rotates in the open direction (counterclockwise direction in FIG. 6B) as shown in FIG. 6B. Then, since the rotation of the sun gear 65 is restricted, the rotation of the internal gear 62 causes the planetary gear 63 to revolve around the sun gear 65, causing the carrier 64 to rotate. As a result, the output shaft 2 fixed to the carrier 64 rotates in the opening direction (counterclockwise direction in FIG. 6B), and the valve body 1 opens. If the energization of the electric motor M is stopped, the valve body 1 can be stopped at an arbitrary intermediate opening degree. If the electric motor M is driven in the closed direction from this state, the internal gear 62 rotates in the closed direction (clockwise in FIG. 6B). Since the rotation of the sun gear 65 is restricted, the planetary gear 63 revolves, causing the carrier 64 and the output shaft 2 fixed to the carrier 64 to rotate in the closed direction (clockwise in FIG. 6B). As a result, the valve body 1 rotates in the closing direction. In this way, by driving the electric motor M in the closing direction and the opening direction, the output shaft 2 can be rotated in the closing direction and the opening direction, respectively, and the valve body 1 can be opened and closed, and the opening can be fully opened and fully closed. It can be adjusted to any opening between and.

When the electric motor M is not energized, the rotation of the internal gear 62 is regulated by the electric motor M as shown in FIG. 6C. In that state, when the electromagnetic brake B is excited to be in a non-braking state and the spring 4 is released, the spring central shaft 72 is rotated by the elastic restoring force of the spring 4. This rotation causes the sun gear 65 to rotate via the reduction gear 77 and the relay gear 70. Since the rotation of the internal gear 62 is restricted, the rotation of the sun gear 65 causes the planetary gear 63 to revolve, whereby the output shaft 2 rotates in the closed direction (clockwise in FIG. 6C) together with the carrier 64. .. The rotation of the output shaft 2 in the closing direction stops when the stopper plate 6 comes into contact with the stopper bolt 7. In this way, the restoring force of the spring 4 can quickly achieve an emergency shutoff operation (emergency operation) that leads the valve body 1 to the fully closed position.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram for explaining the electrical configuration of the electric valve 200 according to the second embodiment. The electric valve 200 includes a power supply circuit U1, an electric double layer capacitor EC, a control circuit K1, and first to fifth switches SW1 to SW5. The first to fifth switches SW1 to SW5 may be semiconductor switches such as field effect transistors.
Four power lines 81 to 84 are provided. The first power line 81 connects the open drive terminal 91 of the electric motor M and the open command terminal T11. The open drive terminal 91 is a terminal to which electric power should be supplied when the electric motor M is driven in the open direction. The open command terminal T11 is connected to the open command contact 101 of the operation switch CS2 provided on the operation panel 50 via the power cable 95. The second power line 82 connects the closed drive terminal 92 of the electric motor M and the closed command terminal T12. The closed drive terminal 92 is a terminal to which electric power should be supplied when the electric motor M is driven in the closed direction. The closing command terminal T12 is connected to the closing command contact 102 of the operation switch CS2 provided on the operation panel 50 via the power cable 95. The common contact 103 of the operation switch CS2 is connected to one terminal of the AC power supply 51. The third power line 83 connects the common drive terminal 93 of the electric motor M and the common terminal T13. The common terminal T13 is connected to the other terminal of the AC power supply 51 via the power cable 95. The power supply circuit U1 is connected to the third power line 83 and the fourth power line 84. The fourth power line 84 is connected to the common contact terminal T14 connected to the common contact 103 of the operation switch CS2 of the AC power supply 51 via the power cable 95.

A fully open detection limit switch LS11 and a fifth switch SW5 are interposed in series on the first power line 81. A fully closed detection limit switch LS12 is interposed in the second power line 82. Further, the relay power line 85 is connected to the second power line 82 on the electric motor M side of the fully closed detection limit switch LS12. The relay power line 85 relays the second power line 82 and the fourth power line 84, bypassing the fully closed detection limit switch LS12, and connecting the fourth power line 84 to the closed drive terminal 92 of the electric motor M. A fourth switch SW4 is interposed in the middle of the relay power line 85.

The control circuit K1 controls opening and closing of the fourth and fifth switches SW4 and SW5 in addition to the first to third switches SW1 to SW3. Further, a winding detection limit switch LS13 for detecting the completion of winding of the spring 4 is connected to the control circuit K1.
Other configurations are the same as in the case of the first embodiment described above.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the control circuit K1 and shows the preparatory operation. In the initial state where power is not supplied, the valve body 1 is in the initial position (fully open position or fully closed position, here, the fully closed position). The non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake B is in a non-excitation state, that is, an actuated state, and brakes the rotation of the spring center shaft 72 and the sun gear 65.

When power is supplied from the operation panel 50, the power supply circuit U1 generates a DC voltage (for example, 24V), whereby the control circuit K1 starts processing. On the other hand, the charging circuit K2 starts charging the electric double layer capacitor EC. The electric double layer capacitor EC is charged quickly (for example, in a few seconds).
First, the control circuit K1 executes an operation for winding up the spring 4. The control circuit K1 checks the state of the winding detection limit switch LS13 (step S31). If the winding detection limit switch LS13 has not detected the completion of winding (step S31: NO), the control circuit K1 controls the fifth switch SW5 to the cutoff state and controls the first switch SW1 to the conduction state (step S32). ). As a result, preparations are made for energizing the electric motor M. By setting the fifth switch SW5 to the cutoff state, the open command operation of the operation switch CS2 becomes invalid.

After that, the control circuit K1 conducts the second switch SW2 while keeping the third switch SW3 disconnected, and excites the electromagnetic brake B to put it in the non-braking state (step S33). As a result, the braking of the spring center shaft 72 and the sun gear 65 is released, and they become rotatable. Then, the control circuit K1 conducts the fourth switch SW4 (step S34). As a result, a closed circuit is formed from the AC power supply 51, which passes through the electric motor M via the fourth power line 84 and the relay power line 85, and then returns to the AC power supply 51 through the third power line 83, and the electric motor M is closed. Driven by.

By driving the electric motor M in the closing direction, the internal gear 62 rotates, and the rotation is transmitted to the sun gear 65 via the planetary gear 63. As a result, the spring central shaft 72 rotates and the spring 4 is wound up (see FIG. 6A).
When the winding detection limit switch LS13 detects the completion of winding of the spring 4 (step S31: YES), the control circuit K1 shuts off the fourth switch SW4 and stops the energization of the electric motor M (step S35). Further, the control circuit K1 shuts off the second switch SW2 to stop the energization of the electromagnetic brake B (step S36). As a result, the electromagnetic brake B is in a non-excited state, and is in a braking state that regulates the rotation of the spring center shaft 72 and the sun gear 65.

Further, the control circuit K1 holds the first switch SW1 in the conductive state and controls the fifth switch SW5 in the conductive state (step S37). As a result, the use preparation operation of the electric valve 200 is completed, and the operation switch CS2 is operated to energize the electric motor M to adjust the opening degree of the valve body 1.
When the operation switch CS2 is operated to the open command contact 101 side, power is supplied from the first power line 81 to the open drive terminal 91 of the electric motor M, so that the electric motor M is driven in the open direction. Further, when the operation switch CS2 is operated to the close command contact 102 side, power is supplied from the second power line 82 to the closed drive terminal 92 of the electric motor M, so that the electric motor M is driven in the closed direction. By driving the electric motor M, the internal gear 62 rotates in a state where the rotation of the sun gear 65 is restricted, so that the output shaft 2 rotates together with the carrier 64 due to the revolution of the planetary gear 63. As a result, the opening degree adjustment of the valve body 1 is achieved (see FIG. 6B).

When the output shaft 2 reaches the fully open position, the fully open detection limit switch LS11 is shut off and the electric motor M is stopped. When the output shaft 2 rotates from the fully open position to the closed direction, the fully open detection limit switch LS11 returns to the conduction state. Similarly, when the output shaft 2 reaches the fully closed position, the fully closed detection limit switch LS12 is shut off and the electric motor M is stopped. When the output shaft 2 rotates from the fully closed position in the open direction, the fully closed detection limit switch LS12 returns to the conduction state.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the control circuit K1 after the preparatory operation, and shows a signal monitoring operation in response to the state of the signal contact ES. When the preparatory operation is completed, the control circuit K1 determines whether or not it is in a power failure state by monitoring whether or not the output voltage of the power supply circuit U1 exceeds the power supply voltage threshold value (step S41).
When the output voltage of the power supply circuit U1 exceeds the power supply voltage threshold (step S41: YES), and therefore the signal contact ES is in the conduction state (detection state) when no power failure occurs (step S42: YES), control is performed. The circuit K1 shuts off the first switch SW1 and shuts off the circuit of the electric motor M to prohibit energization of the electric motor M (step S43). After that, the control circuit K1 conducts the second switch SW2 and excites the electromagnetic brake B while the third switch SW3 is in the cutoff state (step S44). As a result, the electromagnetic brake B is in the non-braking state, so that the braking state (locked state) of the spring center shaft 72 and the sun gear 65 is released. Therefore, the sun gear 65 is rotated by the urging force of the spring 4. Since the rotation of the internal gear 62 is regulated by the electric motor M, the rotation of the sun gear 65 revolves the planetary gear 63, whereby the output shaft 2 rotates in the closed direction together with the carrier 64 (see FIG. 6C). ). As a result, the valve body 1 can be fully closed by the urging force of the spring 4, and an emergency shutoff operation (emergency operation) can be achieved.

The control circuit K1 cuts off the second switch SW2 after conducting the second switch SW2 for a set operating time longer than a sufficient time for the valve body 1 to be fully closed (step S45: YES). Then, the power supply to the electromagnetic brake B is cut off (step S46).
When the output voltage of the power supply circuit U1 is equal to or lower than the power supply voltage threshold value and it is determined that a power failure state is established (step S41: NO), in the control circuit K1, the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC exceeds a predetermined capacitor voltage threshold value. It is determined whether or not the capacitor is present (step S47). This determination corresponds to the determination of whether or not the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC exceeds the predetermined remaining amount threshold value, as in the case of the first embodiment.

When the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC exceeds the capacitor voltage threshold value (step S47: YES) and the signal contact ES is in the conduction state (detection state) (step S48: YES), the control circuit K1 is set to the first. The 1 switch SW1 is cut off to prohibit the energization of the electric motor M (step S49), and the second switch SW2 is kept in the cutoff state to conduct the third switch SW3 (step S50). As a result, the electric power stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC is supplied to the electromagnetic brake B. As a result, the electromagnetic brake B is in the non-braking state, so that the locked state of the spring center shaft 72 and the sun gear 65 is released. Therefore, the urging force of the spring 4 causes the spring central shaft 72 to rotate, which causes the sun gear 65 to rotate. Since the rotation of the internal gear 62 is regulated by the electric motor M, the rotation of the sun gear 65 revolves the planetary gear 63, whereby the output shaft 2 rotates in the closed direction together with the carrier 64 (see FIG. 6C). ). In this way, the valve body 1 can be fully closed by the urging force of the spring 4, and an emergency shutoff operation (emergency operation) can be achieved.

The control circuit K1 cuts off the third switch SW3 after conducting the third switch SW3 for an operating time set to be sufficient for the valve body 1 to be fully closed (step S51: YES). Then, the power supply to the electromagnetic brake B is cut off (step S52).
When the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC is equal to or less than the capacitor voltage threshold (step S47: NO), the control circuit K1 shuts off the first switch SW1 regardless of the state of the signal contact ES (step S49). , The third switch SW3 is made conductive (step S50). As a result, in the same manner as described above, the electromagnetic brake B is excited by the power supply from the electric double layer capacitor EC to be in the non-braking state, and the emergency shutoff operation is performed by the urging force of the spring 4. The control circuit K1 conducts the third switch SW3 for an operating time set to be sufficient for the valve body 1 to be fully closed (step S51: YES), and then shuts off the third switch SW3. Then, the power supply to the electromagnetic brake B is cut off (step S52).

It is preferable to set the capacitor voltage threshold value and the capacity of the electric double layer capacitor EC in the same manner as in the case of the first embodiment described above.
As described above, in this embodiment, while the electromagnetic brake B is held in the braking state (non-excited state), the electric motor M is driven in the open direction or the closed direction by the operation of the operation switch CS2 to open and close the valve body 1. Or the opening can be adjusted between fully closed and fully open. On the other hand, in response to the input from the signal contact ES, an emergency cutoff (emergency operation) using a spring force can be performed.

In addition, the same effects as described with respect to the first embodiment can be realized.
Although the two embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention can be implemented in still other embodiments. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the flow path is urgently shut off in response to the input of the signal contact ES has been mainly described, but depending on the use of the electric valves 100 and 200, in response to the input of the signal contact ES and the like. In some cases, the flow path should be opened urgently. For example, when the electric valves 100 and 200 are arranged in the water supply channel of the sprinkler for sprinkling water for fire extinguishing, an emergency opening (emergency operation) of the electric valve may be required in response to an emergency signal. In such a case, the spring 4 in the wound state may urge the valve body 1 in the opening direction.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the electric double layer capacitor EC is exemplified as the power storage unit, but a primary battery or a secondary battery may be applied as the power storage unit. However, from the viewpoint of reducing maintenance, it is preferable that the power storage unit is rechargeable.
Further, in the above-described embodiment, when a power failure does not occur, the second switch SW2 is made conductive in response to the input from the signal contact ES, and the exciting current is supplied from the power supply circuit U1 to the electromagnetic brake B. However, the direct connection between the power supply circuit U1 and the electromagnetic brake B is not always necessary, and the exciting current may be supplied from the electric double layer capacitor EC to the electromagnetic brake B even when a power failure does not occur. That is, the circuit for directly connecting the first DC power supply line 31 to the electromagnetic brake B and the second switch SW2 interposed in such a circuit may be omitted.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the operating power is supplied from the power supply circuit U1 to the control circuit K1 via the second diode D2, but the power supply to the control circuit K1 is performed exclusively from the electric double layer capacitor EC. It may be configured as. That is, the third DC power supply line 33 may be omitted. However, in this case, since the control circuit K1 does not start until the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC rises, there is a slight delay before the start of the preparatory operation.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the semiconductor switches are applied to the first to fifth switches SW1 to SW5, but these may be replaced with other opening / closing units such as relays.
Further, in the above-described embodiment, the output voltage of the electric double layer capacitor EC is detected as an index of the remaining storage amount of the electric double layer capacitor EC. Instead of or in addition to this, the elapsed time from the time of power failure detection (power failure duration) is measured, and the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electric double layer capacitor EC is obtained based on this measurement time, or the measurement thereof. Time may be used as an alternative index of the remaining charge.

In addition, various design changes can be made within the scope of the matters described in the claims.

100,200 Electric valve 1 Valve body 2 Output shaft 3 Transmission mechanism 4 Spring 5 Flow path 14 Housing 15 Wiring board 41, 42 Voltage detection line 50 Operation panel 51 AC power supply 60 Transmission mechanism 61 Planetary gear mechanism 71 Spring drive gear 72 Spring center Axis B Electromagnetic brake CS1, CS2 Operation switch EC Electric double layer capacitor ES Signal contact M Electric motor K1 Control circuit K2 Charging circuit U1 Power supply circuit SW1 to SW5 Switch

Claims (8)

A valve body that opens and closes the flow path,
An output shaft that is coupled to the valve body and can be operated in the closing direction in which the flow path is closed by the valve body and in the open direction in which the flow path is opened by the valve body.
An electric motor driven by an external power supply and
A transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the electric motor to the output shaft,
In a state of being coupled to the transmission mechanism, being wound up by the rotation of the electric motor, and being wound up, the output shaft is moved through the transmission mechanism in either the closing direction or the opening direction. With a spring that urges
A non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake that is in a braking state that prohibits the operation of the output shaft by the urging force of the spring in the non-excitation state and is in a non-braking state in which the braking state is released in the excitation state.
A power storage unit that stores brake excitation power to be supplied to the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake, and
A first braking release switch that opens and closes a circuit between the power storage unit and the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake,
A second brake release switch that opens and closes a circuit that connects the external power supply and the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake, and
When the power from the external power source is not supplied, the exciting current is supplied from the power storage unit to the non-excited actuated electromagnetic brake by conducting the first braking release switch in response to the valve operation command signal. When the power from the external power supply is supplied, the second braking release switch is made conductive in response to the valve operation command signal to excite the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake from the external power supply. a control circuit Ru is supplied with current,
Including electric valve. A valve body that opens and closes the flow path,
An output shaft that is coupled to the valve body and can be operated in the closing direction in which the flow path is closed by the valve body and in the open direction in which the flow path is opened by the valve body.
An electric motor driven by an external power supply and
A transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the electric motor to the output shaft,
In a state of being coupled to the transmission mechanism, being wound up by the rotation of the electric motor, and being wound up, the output shaft is moved through the transmission mechanism in either the closing direction or the opening direction. With a spring that urges
A non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake that is in a braking state that prohibits the operation of the output shaft by the urging force of the spring in the non-excitation state and is in a non-braking state in which the braking state is released in the excitation state.
A power storage unit that stores brake excitation power to be supplied to the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake, and
A first braking release switch that opens and closes a circuit between the power storage unit and the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake,
A control circuit that supplies an exciting current from the power storage unit to the non-excited actuated electromagnetic brake by conducting the first braking release switch in response to a valve operation command signal.
Including
The control circuit detects the remaining amount of electricity stored in the electricity storage unit, and when the remaining amount of electricity is reduced to the remaining amount threshold value or less than the remaining amount threshold value, the first braking is performed even if the valve operation command signal is not input. by conducting a release switch, to supply an exciting current to the non-excitation type electromagnetic brake from the energy storage unit, electric valve operating. The electric valve according to claim 1 or 2 , further comprising a charging circuit for charging the power storage unit with electric power supplied from the external power source. The electric valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the operating power of the control circuit is supplied from the power storage unit. The transmission mechanism, the spring is wound up, the non-excitation type electromagnetic brake when de-energized, the which the rotation of the electric motor is configured to be transmitted to the output shaft, according to claim 1-4 The electric valve according to any one of the items. The electric valve according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein the power storage unit includes an electric double layer capacitor. The electric valve according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the power storage unit is housed in a housing together with the non-excitation actuated electromagnetic brake. The electric valve according to claim 7, wherein the control circuit is housed in the housing.

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