LOCK DEVICE OF LEVER TYPE PIPE JOINT

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001]

The present invention relates to a lock device for holding a cam arm in a predetermined position in a lever type pipe joint (coupling) that detachably joins a female coupler and a male adapter.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002]

As the lever type pipe joint of this type, there has been a lever type pipe joint in which a pair of bearing parts projecting in an arcuate shape from the surface of a coupler are respectively formed in position symmetrical on the outer surface of the coupler, a cam arm and a lock member are disposed between the bearing parts and a pin is inserted through the cam arm and the lock member, whereby both of the cam arm and the lock member pivotally attached and the cam arm is rotatably supported between a lock position and an unlocked position (see, for example, Patent Literature 1).

An operator grips the cam arm and turns the cam arm from the unlocked position to the lock position along the surfaces of the bearing parts, whereby an adapter is jointed to the coupler. Conversely, the operator turns the cam arm from the lock position to the unlocked position, whereby the adapter can be separated from the coupler In the lock member, a stopper surface part is formed by bending one end of a tabular base part along the surfaces of the bearing parts of the coupler. The stopper surface part is butted against the bearing parts of the coupler in a bending direction of the stopper surface part, whereby the lock member is unrotatably fixed. A projection that engages with a recess of the cam arm is integrally formed at the other end of the base part. A pressure surface part is integrally formed to be spaced apart from the opposite side of the cam arm. When the cam arm is turned to the lock position, the recess engages with the projection-of the lock member, whereby the cam arm is unrotatably held. The cam arm is locked in the lock position. In this lock state, the pressure surface part is pressed toward the cam arm to elastically deform the base part of the lock member, whereby the base part is elastically deformed and the projection disengages from the recess of the cam arm to enable the cam arm to turn from the lock position toward the unlocked position.

RELATED ART LITERATURE

Patent Literature [0003]

Patent Literature 1: US Patent No. 5791694

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0004]

However, in such a conventional lever type pipe joint, the stopper surface part of the lock member is a protrusion always partially projecting from the arcuate surfaces of the bearing parts of the coupler. Therefore, every time the operator grips the cam arm and turns the cam arm from the unlocked position to the lock position along the surfaces of the bearing parts, for example, a part of a finger or a hand comes into contact with the protrusion (the stopper surface part) to be caught. Specifically, a gap is formed between a thin plate end edge of the stopper surface part formed by linearly bending one end of the tabular base part and the arcuate surfaces of bearing parts. Therefore, the thin plate end edge is pointed and projects from the surfaces of the bearing parts and is extremely dangerous. In particular, when the cam arm is turned from the unlocked position to the lock position to join the coupler and the adapter, since the turning of the cam arm requires heavy and large power, there is a problem in that a part of the finger or the hand strongly bumps against the protrusion (the stopper surface part) and the operator is hurt.

Therefore, in order to solve this problem, it is conceivable to perform improvements to bend the stopper surface part of the lock member in an arcuate shape along the arcuate surfaces of the bearing parts and form, on the arcuate surfaces of the bearing parts, recesses in which the stopper surface part of the lock member fits. However, for these improvements, special bending of the stopper surface part, remaking of the entire coupler including the bearing parts, and the like are necessary. There is a problem in that costs increase.
Incidentally, when an inexperienced operator operates the pipe joint in haste, it is likely that the operator does not press the pressure surface part and turns the cam arm while the unlock from the lock member is not performed. In this case, since a strong load is applied to the stopper surface part, the stopper surface part is deformed in the opposite direction of a direction in which the stopper surface part is bent. In order to prevent this deformation, it is desirable to form the lock member with a hardly deformable material. However, in order to smoothly perform the unlock from the cam arm, the lock member needs to be formed of a deformable material excellent in elasticity. That is, the stopper surface part bent and formed at one end of the base part in the lock member and the base part excluding the stopper surface need to have opposite performances. It is difficult to manufacture the lock member having functions of the stopper surface part and the base part.

Therefore, as a realistic manufacturing method for the lock member, there has been only a method of forming the entire lock member in a thin plate shape with an elastically deformable material such that the unlock from the cam arm can be smoothly performed. Therefore, when the stopper surface part receives a strong force because of an act of turning the cam arm without unlocking the cam arm from the lock member, the stopper surface part is gradually deformed in the opposite direction of the bending direction of the stopper surface part and gradually separates from the surfaces of the bearing parts of the coupler. A turning region of the lock member gradually increases. Finally, the stopper surface part returns to a state close to a state before the bending.

Consequently, since a stopper function of the lock member is markedly deteriorated, it is necessary to frequently replace the lock member. There is a problem in that an operation rate decreases because of the replacement. Further, since the entire lock member is easily elastically deformed, there is a problem in that the lock member is accidentally unlocked from the cam arm. The cam arm having a lever shape and the thin plate-like lock member are disposed side by side in parallel across a small gap by the pin. Therefore, there is also a problem in that, when the operator turns the cam arm toward the lock position by the hand, the palm of the operator bumps against the end edge of the deformed thin plate-like lock member and the operator feels pain.

A function of provisionally tacking the cam arm is not provided in the unlocked position. Even if the cam arm is turned to the unlocked position in order to join the adapter to the coupler, it is likely that the cam arm is not held in the unlocked position and turns in the opposite direction toward the lock position. In particular, when the operator holds the coupler with the unlocked position facing upward, there is a problem in that the cam arm turns downward toward the lock position with its own weight and, unless a pair of the cam arms is held in the unlocked position, the adapter cannot be smoothly attached to and detached from the coupler and workability is poor. [0005]
The present invention aims at solving such problems and it is an object of the present invention to, for example, accidental unlock.

SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0006]
In order to attain such an object, a lock device of a lever type pipe joint according to the present invention includes: a coupler including a first tubular part; an adapter including a second tubular part detachably inserted into the first tubular part in an axial direction; a cam arm rotatably and pivotally attached to a bearing part, which is formed to project from an outer surface of the coupler, between an unlocked position and a lock position, the cam arm making the second tubular part movable in the axial direction with respect to the first tubular part when the cam arm is in the unlocked position and making the second tubular part immovable in the axial direction with respect to the first tubular part when the cam arm is in the lock position; and a lock member pivotally attached to the bearing part of the coupler together with the cam arm, the lock member unrotatably locking the cam arm toward the unlocked position when the cam arm turns to the lock position. The lock member includes: a plate-like body pivotally attached to the bearing part; a locking part for lock formed in the plate-like body to unrotatably engage with the cam arm in the lock position; and a pressure part that is opposed to the locking part for lock in the plate-like body and moves the locking part for lock in a direction for separating the locking part for lock from the cam arm. Elastic means for pressing the plate-like body to a side of the cam arm is provided along the lock member. [0007]

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ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION

[0008]
In the lock device of the lever type pipe joint according to the present invention having the characteristics explained above, the lock member includes the pressure part that is opposed to the locking part for lock in the plate-like body and moves the locking part for lock in the direction for separating the locking part for lock from the cam arm.

The elastic means for pressing the plate-like body to the cam arm side is provided along the lock member. Consequently, the plate-like body is elastically pressed toward the cam arm by the elastic means. Therefore, the locking part for lock of the lock member engaging in the lock position does not come off the cam arm 3.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent accidental unlock.

As a result, even if a relatively small shock occurs, it is possible to improve safety compared with the conventional one in which the entire lock member is elastically deformed and the lock member is accidentally unlocked from the cam arm.

Further, when the elastic means is configured be elastically deformed by pressing the pressure part to move the locking part for lock in the direction for separating the locking part for lock from the cam arm, according to the elastic deformation of the elastic means, the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body tilts in the direction for separating the locking part for lock from the cam arm. Therefore, the locking part for lock comes off the cam arm.

Therefore, it is possible to unlock the lock member 4 from the cam arm 3 without elastically deforming the lock member 4.

As a result, the entire lock member can be formed of a material that is less easily deformed. It is possible to further extend the life of the lock member. [0009]

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010]
Fig. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the overall configuration of a lock device of a lever type pipe joint according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein (a) is a partially cutoff front view before joining of a coupler and an adapter and (b) is a partially cutoff front view after the joining.
Fig. 2 is a partially cutoff left side view of the coupler in Fig. 1(b).

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the coupler, wherein (a) is a perspective view at the time when a cam arm is provisionally tacked to an unlocked position and (b) is a perspective view at the time when the cam arm is locked to a lock position.

Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the coupler, the cam arm, and the lock member.

Fig. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a modification of the coupler, wherein (a) is a perspective view at the time when the cam arm is provisionally tacked to the unlocked position and (b) is a perspective view at the time when the cam arm is locked to the lock position.

Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the overall configuration of a lock device of a, lever type pipe joint according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein (a) is a partially cutoff front view before joining of a coupler and an adapter and (b) is a partially cutoff front view after the joining.

Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the coupler, the cam arm, and the lock member.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0011]

Embodiments of the present invention are explained in detail below with reference to the drawings.

A lock device of a lever type pipe joint A according to an embodiment of the present invention includes, as shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 7, as main components, a coupler 1 to which a first pipe body B is connected, the coupler 1 including a first tubular part la, an adapter 2 to which a second pipe body C is connected, the adapter 2 including a second tubular part 2a, a cam arm 3 rotatably provided in the coupler 1, and a lock member 4 provided in the coupler 1 together with the cam arm 3.
The cam arm 3 and the lock member 4 are detachably attached to the coupler 1 of the lever type pipe joint A and are respectively replaceable. [0012]

The coupler 1 is formed in a cylindrical shape from a rigid material such as metal or rigid synthetic resin. The first pipe body B made of, for example, metal or another material is detachably connected to one end opening of the coupler 1 to make it possible to attach a flexible hose or the like to the coupler 1. A first tubular part la of a female type is formed at the other end opposed to the adapter 2 on the opposite side of the one end opening.

In the coupler 1, on an outer surface le of the first tubular part la, the cam arm 3 explained below are rotatably provided. It is preferable that, on an outer surface le of the coupler 1, a pair of cam arms 3 is disposed in positions symmetrical in the radial direction of the outer surface le.

The adapter 2 is formed in a cylindrical shape from a rigid material such as-metal or rigid synthetic resin. The second pipe body C made of, for example, metal or another material is detachably connected to one end opening of the coupler 1 to make it possible to attach a flexible hose or the like to the coupler 1. A second tubular part 2a of a male type smaller in diameter than the first tubular part la and detachably inserted into (fit in) the first tubular part la is formed at the other end opposed to the coupler 1 on the opposite side of the one end opening.

In the adapter 2, a circumferential groove 2b that engage with a cam surface 3 a of the cam arm 3 explained below is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the second tubular part 2a.

Specific examples of the coupler 1 and the adapter 2 are described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2007-32791 and the like. [0013]

As a specific example of the coupler 1, as shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 7, on the outer surface le of the coupler 1, in symmetrical positions on 180 degree opposite sides in the circumferential direction of the outer surface le, a pair of bearing parts lb projecting in an arcuate shape from the outer surface le of the coupler 1 are respectively formed. Opening parts lc are respectively opened in positions sandwiched by the bearing parts lb.

Between the bearing parts lb, the cam arm 3 explained below is disposed substantially in parallel to the axial direction of the coupler 1. A pin Id is inserted through between the bearing part lb and the proximal end part of the cam arm 3, whereby the cam arm 3 is rotatably pivotally attached to the coupler 1. The cam arm 3 is disposed such that, according to turning operation of the cam arm 3, the cam surface 3a pierces through the opening part lc to project toward the inner circumferential surface of the first tubular part la.

Further, between the bearing parts lb, the lock member 4 explained below are disposed side by side with the cam arm 3 substantially in parallel to the axial direction of the coupler 1. The pin Id is inserted through from the bearing part lb to one end part of the lock member 4, whereby the lock member 4 is pivotally attached together with the cam arm 3. [0014]

The cam arm 3 is a lever to be manually operated between an unlocked position PI for enabling the second tubular part 2a of the adapter 2 to be inserted into or removed from the First tubular part la of the coupler 1 in the axial direction and a lock position P2 in which the second tubular part 2a of the adapter 2 is inserted into the first tubular part la of the coupler 1 and the first tubular part la and the second tubular part 2a are joined.

The cam surface 3a is formed at the proximal end of the cam arm 3. A pivot hole 3b, through which the pin Id pierces, is drilled in the vicinity of the cam surface 3a. A ring 3r is desirably attached to the distal end of the cam arm 3. [0015]

Further, the cam surface 3a of the cam arm 3 is designed such that a radial direction length from the pin Id to the cam surface 3a changes according to turning operation of the cam arm 3.

An example shown in a solid line in Fig. 1(a) and Fig. 3(a) represents a state in which the cam arm 3 turns to the unlocked position PL A part of the cam arm 3 bumps against the opening edge of the opening part lc of the coupler 1 to regulate further turning of the cam arm 3.

In the unlocked position PI, the cam arm 3 turns to extend toward the radial direction outer side of the coupler 1. In this state, a projection amount of the cam surface 3a in the radial direction inner side is minimized. The cam surface 3a is disposed in the opening part lc of the coupler 1 and does not project to the inner circumferential surface of the first tubular part la to enable the second tubular part 2a of the adapter 2 to reciprocatingly move in the axial direction along the inner circumferential surface of the first tubular part la. [0016]

An example shown in a solid line in Fig. 1(b) and Fig. 3(b) represents a state in which the cam arm 3 turns to the lock position P2. A part of the cam arm 3 indirectly bumps against the outer circumferential surface of the coupler 1 via the lock member 4 explained below or directly bumps against the outer circumferential surface of the coupler 1 to regulate further turning of the cam arm 3.

In the lock position P2, the cam arm 3 turns to extend substantially in parallel to one end of the coupler 1 in the axial direction toward the radial direction outer side of the coupler 1. In this state, a projection amount of the cam surface 3a in the radial direction inner side is maximized. The cam surface 3a projects from the opening part lc of the coupler 1 toward the inner circumferential surface of the first tubular part la and engages with the circumferential groove 2b of the outer circumferential surface of the second tubular part 2a to disable the second tubular part 2a of the adapter 2 to move in the axial direction with respect to the inner circumferential surface of the first tubular part la.

Further, in the coupler 1, on the inside of the first tubular part la, an annular seal material If opposed to a distal end 2c of the second tubular part 2a in the adapter 2 is provided. During joining of the coupler 1 and the adapter 2 indicated by a solid line in Fig. 1(b), the distal end 2c of the second tubular part 2a comes into press contact with the annular seal material If to partially compression-deform the annular seal material If, whereby the coupler 1 and the adapter 2 are sealed; [0017]

Incidentally, in accidental turning of the cam arm 3 from the unlocked position PI shown in the solid line in Fig. 1(a) and in Fig. 3(a), when the second tubular part 2a of the adapter 2 is inserted into the first tubular part la of the coupler 1, the second tubular part 2a of the adapter 2 interferes with the cam surface 3 a of the cam arm 3. The adapter 2 cannot be smoothly inserted. Connection work to the coupler 1 is difficult.

To prevent this, the cam arm 3 is provisionally tacked by the lock member 4 explained below not to accidentally turn from the unlocked position PI to the lock position P2.

Further, in accidental turning of the cam arm 3 from the lock position P2 shown in the solid line in Fig. 1(b) and in Fig. 3(b), it is likely that the first tubular part la of the coupler 1 and the second tubular part 2a of the adapter 2 are disjoined and fluid passing through the first pipe body B and the second pipe body C flows out.

To prevent this, the cam arm 3 is locked by the lock member 4 explained below not to accidentally turn from the lock position P2 to the unlocked position PI.

That is, in the cam arm 3, an engaged part for provisional tacking 3c for provisionally tacking and holding the cam arm 3 in the unlocked position PI and a locked part for lock 3d for locking and holding the cam arm 3 in the lock position P2 are provided. [0018]

The lock member 4 includes, as main components, a plate-like body 4a made of a plate material and pivotally attached to the bearing part lb by the pin Id, a stopper part for lock 4b formed in the plate-like body 4a to be opposed to the outer surface le of the coupler, an engaging part for provisional tacking 4c formed in the plate-like body 4a to be opposed to the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c of the cam arm 3 in the unlocked position PI, and a locking part for lock 4d formed in the plate-like body 4a to be opposed to the locked part for lock 3d of the cam arm 3 in the lock position P2.

The plate-like body 4a is desirably formed in a band plate shape from a rigid material such as metal less easily rusted and having rigidity such as stainless steel and configured to be not compression-deformed even if receiving a load in a longitudinal direction thereof or a width direction crossing the longitudinal direction but to be reduced in a plate thickness dimension to be slightly elastically deformable in a plate thickness direction.

That is, the plate-like body 4a is formed not to be deformable in a contact direction of a stopper part for lock 4b and the outer surface le of the coupler 1, that is, the width direction of the plate-like body 4a but is desirably configured to be elastically deformable in an engaging direction of the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c and the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c and an engaging direction of the locked part for lock 3d and the locking part for lock 4d, that is, the plate thickness direction of the plate-like body 4a. [0019]

As a setting example of the plate-like body 4a, in the case shown in Fig. 1 to

Fig. 7, a through-hole 4e is drilled in the vicinity of the stopper part for lock 4b explained below in the plate-like body 4a and the pin Id is inserted through the through-hole 4e in a loose fitting state, whereby the plate-like body 4a is pivotally attached between the inner side surface of one bearing part lb and one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3 close to each other, and the plate-like body 4a is supported to be capable of tilting by a predetermined angle in an insert-through direction of the pin Id.

As another example, although not shown in the figures, a substantially C-shaped recess that fits with the pin Id is formed instead of the through-hole 4e and the recess is unremovably fit with the pin Id, whereby the lock member 4 is supported to be capable of tilting by a predetermined angle in an insert-through direction of the pin Id and, when the lock member 4 is replaced, only the lock member 4 can be changed to be detached by a tool or the like without pulling the pin Id out of the bearing part lb. [0020]

The stopper part for lock 4b is formed on one end side in the longitudinal direction on a thin inner end face (an inner end face with a small plate thickness direction) of the plate-like body 4a, which is opposed to the outer surface le of the coupler, across a pivotally attached part by the pin Id or the like. The stopper part for lock 4b is set in contact with the outer surface le of the coupler 1 in a pivotally attached state, whereby the plate-like body 4a and the locking part for lock 4d are unrotatably held and fixed centering on the pivotally attached part.

As a specific example of the stopper part for lock 4b, in the case shown in Fig. 1 to Fig.. 7, on the thin inner end face of the plate-like body 4a, one end side in the longitudinal direction is inclined to be opposed to the opening edge of the opening part 1c as the outer surface le of the coupler 1. This inclined surface is set in contact with the opening edge of the opening part lc. Further, the plate-like body 4a is desirably set in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the first tubular part la to prevent turning of the lock member 4.

As another example, although not shown in the figures, instead of the inclined surface, the stopper part for lock 4b can also be formed in a recession-projection shape that fit with the opening edge of the opening part lc. [0021]

The engaging part for provisional tacking 4c is formed on one end side.in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a to be opposed to the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c of the cam arm 3 and is configured to unrotatably provisionally tack and hold the cam arm 3 in the unlocked position PI by being engaged with the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c of the cam arm 3 turned to the unlocked position PL
The engaged part for provisional tacking 3c is desirably formed on an opposed surface to the plate-like body 4a or at the end edge in the cam arm 3 to be opposed to the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c of the lock member 4 to recession-projection-fit the engaged part for provisional tacking 3 c and the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c each other. [0022]

The locking part for lock 4d is formed to be opposed to the locked part for lock 3d of the cam arm 3 on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a and configured to unrotatably lock and hold the cam arm 3 in the lock position P2 by being locked with the locked part for lock 3d of the cam arm 3 turned to the lock position P2.

The locked part for lock 3d is desirably formed on the opposed surface to the plate-like body 4a in the cam arm 3 to be opposed to the locking part for lock 4d of the lock member 4 to recession-projection-fit the locked part for lock 3d and the locking part for lock 4d each other. A recession-projection fitting force of the locked part for lock 3d and the locking part for lock 4d is set to be stronger than that of the engaged part for provisional tacking 3 c and the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c. [0023]

Further, in the lock member 4, on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a, a pressure part 4f that moves the locking part for lock 4d in a direction for separating the locking part for lock 4d from the one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3 is desirably formed to be opposed to the locking part for lock 4d.

The pressure part 4f is a projecting piece processed by bending the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a in a C shape in cross section along a bottom surface 3f and the other side surface 3g of the cam arm 3 and disposed to be opposed to the other side surface 3g of the cam arm 3 with a predetermined gap. The pressure part 4f is pressed toward the other side surface 3g of the cam arm 3 by a finger or the like to move the locking part for lock 4d in a direction for separating the locking part for lock 4d from the one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3, whereby at least the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a tilts and the locking part for lock 4d comes off the one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3. A spring material functioning as elastic means 5 is elastically deformed according to the pressing operation of the pressure part 4f to tiltably support the entire plate-like body 4a.

In the example shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 7, the pressure part 4f is bent in a double shape such as a reverse U shape in cross section.

As another example, although not shown in the figures, it is also possible that the pressure part 4f is changed from the double shape in cross section to one sheet or the pressure part 4f is not provided and the cam arm 3 is configured or changed to come off the locking part for lock 4d by being directly held and turned by the operator. [0024]

The elastically deformable elastic means 5 that presses the plate-like body 4a to the cam arm 3 side is desirably provided in the vicinity of the lock member 4.

As a specific example of the elastic means 5, in the case shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 7, as the elastic means 5, a spring material formed by a coil spring, a wave-shaped washer, or a spring washer is prepared separately from the plate-like body 4a. The spring material functioning as the elastic means 5 is unremovably attached by being held between one end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a and the bearing part lb of the coupler 1 adjacent to the plate-like body 4a and inserting the pin Id through the spring material.

Consequently, in the unlocked position PI, the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c of the plate-like body 4a is pressed toward the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c of the cam arm 3 and more surely recession-projection-fit to prevent the cam arm 3 from being accidentally disengaged to turn from the unlocked position PI toward the lock position P2.

In the lock position P2, the locking part for lock 4d of the plate-like body 4a is pressed toward the locked part for lock 3d of the cam arm 3 and more surely recession- projection-fit to prevent the cam arm 3 from being accidentally unlocked to turn from the lock position P2 to the unlocked position PI.

As another example, although not shown in the figures, it is also possible to fixedly attach the spring material functioning as the elastic means 5 to one end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a to integrate the spring material with the plate-like body 4a, process one end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a to configure the elastic means 5 to be integrally formed, or elastically deform the plate-like body 4a of the lock member 4 without providing the elastic means 5 to tilt the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a in a direction for separating the locking part for lock 4d from the cam arm 3. [0025]

With such a lock device of the lever type pipe joint A according to the embodiment of the present invention, for example, as shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) and Figs. 3(a) and 3(b), the stopper part 4b on the thin inner end face in the plate-like body 4a of the lock member 4 comes into contact with the opening edge of the opening part lc or the like as the outer surface le of the coupler 1, whereby the plate-like body 4a is immovable fixed to the coupler 1. In this state, as shown the solid line in Fig. 1(b) and Fig. 3(b), the cam arm 3 is turned from the unlocked position PI to the lock position P2, whereby the locked part for lock 3d of the cam arm 3 is locked with the locking part for lock 4d of the lock member 4 to lock and hold the cam arm 3 not to accidentally turn from the lock position P2 to the unlocked position PL Further, in the lock state of the cam arm 3, in particular, when an inexperienced operator operates the cam arm 3 in haste, although the cam arm 3 is unrotatably held in the lock member 4 by the locking part for lock 4d, the operator sometimes forcedly turns the cam arm 3 from the lock position P2 toward the unlocked position PL Even if a strong force in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a acts on the lock member 4 because of such wrong operation to separate the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a, in which the locking part for lock 4d is disposed, from the outer surface le of the coupler 1, the plate-like body 4a turns centering on the pivotally attached part by the pin Id or the like to bring the stopper part 4b disposed on one end side in the longitudinal direction and on the thin inner end face (the inner end. face with the small plate thickness dimension) into contact with the outer surface le of the coupler 1. Therefore, the plate-like body 4a receives a compression load in the thickness direction (a direction in which the plate thickness is large) of the plate-like body 4a. Consequently, the shape of the stopper part 4b is not deformed and the stopper part 4b continues to function as a stopper that unrotatably fixes the entire lock member 4.

Therefore, it is possible to surely lock the cam arm 3 in the lock position P2 with a simple structure without causing a protrusion in the bearing part lb of the coupler 1.

As a result, the stopper part 4b does not partially project from the surface of the bearing part lb. Therefore, even if the operator grips the cam arm 3 and turns the cam arm 3 between the unlocked position PI and the lock position P2 along the surface of the bearing part lb, a finger, a hand, or the like of the operator does not come into contact with the stopper part 4b. Occurrence of injuries can be prevented. The lock device and the lock member are excellent in safety. Further, bending of the stopper part 4b, remake or the like of the entire coupler 1 including the bearing part lb, and the like are unnecessary. Therefore, a reduction in costs can be attained.

A replacement period of the lock member 4 is extended and the life of the lock member 4 is increased. Improvement of an operation rate can be attained. Therefore, the lock device and the lock member are economical.
Consequently, it is possible to prevent, for a long period, careless separation of the coupler 1 and the adapter 2 due to accidental turning of the cam arm 3 without replacement of components of the lock member 4. Therefore, the lock device and the lock member are excellent in safety and economy. [0026]

In particular, when the lock member 4 includes, on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a, opposed to the locking part for lock 4d, the pressure part 4f that moves the locking part for lock 4d in the direction for separating the locking part for lock 4d from the cam arm 3 and the elastic means 5 for pressing the plate-like body 4a to the cam arm 3 side is provided along the lock member 4, the plate-like body 4a is elastically pressed toward the cam arm 3 by the elastic means 5. Therefore, the locking part for lock 4d of the lock member 4 engaging in the lock position P2 does not come off the cam arm 3.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent accidental unlock.

As a result, even if a relatively small shock occurs, it is possible to improve safety compared with the conventional one in which the entire lock member is elastically deformed and the lock member is accidentally unlocked from the cam arm.

Further, when the elastic means 5 is configured be elastically deformed by pressing the pressure part 4f to move the locking part for lock 4d in the direction for separating the locking part for lock 4d from the cam arm 3, according to the elastic deformation of the elastic means 5, the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a tilts in the direction for separating the locking part for lock 4d from the cam arm 3. Therefore, the locking part for lock 4d comes off the cam arm 3.

Therefore, it is possible to unlock the lock member 4 from the cam arm 3 without elastically deforming the lock member 4.

As a result, the entire lock member 4 can be formed of a material that is less easily deformed. It is possible to further extend the life of the lock member 4. [0027]

Further, when the lock member 4 includes, in the plate-like body 4a, the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c formed to unrotatably engage with the cam arm 3 in the unlocked position PI, as shown in the solid line in Fig. 1(a) and Fig. 3(a), the cam arm 3 is turned from the lock position P2 toward the unlocked position PI, whereby, when the cam arm 3 reaches the unlocked position PI, the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c of the cam arm 3 engages with the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c of the lock member 4. According to this engagement, the cam arm 3 is provisionally tacked and held by the coupler 1 unrotatably toward the lock position P2 via the lock member 4.

Therefore, it is possible to provisionally tack and hold the cam arm 3 in the unlocked position PI with a simple structure to prevent an insertion failure of the adapter 2 due to accidental turning of the cam arm 3.

As a result, even if the operator holds the coupler 1 with the unlocked position PI directed upward, since the cam arm 3 does not turn downward toward the lock position P2 with its own weight, the adapter 2 can be smoothly attached to and detached from the coupler 1. The lock device and the lock member are excellent in workability.

Furthermore, the coupler 1 can be remodeled simply by adding the lock member 4 as a component even if the conventional coupler not having a provisional tacking mechanisms is not remodeled. Therefore, not only the conventionally used coupler but also the cam arm and the like assembled to the coupler can be effectively used as they are. Therefore, the lock device and the lock member are economical and protection of the natural environment can be attained. [0028]

When the plate-like body 4a of the lock member 4 is configured to be elastically deformable in an engaging direction of the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c and (the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c of) the cam arm 3, the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c of the plate-like body 4a is elastically deformed toward (the engaged part for provisional tacking 3 c of) the cam arm 3, whereby an engaging force of the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c and (the engaged part for provisional tacking 3 c of) the cam arm 3 increases and the provisional tacking and holding of the cam arm 3 is not released by vibration, as light shock, or the like.

Therefore, it is possible to further improve the provisional tacking and holding force of the cam arm 3 in the unlocked position PI.

Examples of the present invention are explained with reference to the drawings.

Example 1 [0029]

In this example 1, as shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4, in the cam arm 3, on the opposed surface to the plate-like body 4a, the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c is formed to be opposed to the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c of the lock member4 and recession-projection-fit with each other.

In the example shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4, on the one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3, the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c and the locked part for lock 3d are respectively integrally formed in concave shapes. Specifically, on the one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3, parts to be formed as the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c and the locked part for lock 3d are recessed in a hemispherical shape or another shape by cutting or pressing.

On the side surfaces of the plate-like body 4a of the lock member 4, the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c and the locking part for lock 4d are respectively integrally formed in convex shapes. The engaging part for provisional tacking 4c is disposed on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a. The locking part for lock 4d is disposed on the other end side in .the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a. Specifically, on the side surfaces of the plate-like body 4a, parts to be formed as the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c and the locking part for lock 4d are projected by pressing or the like from the rear surface side of the parts.

As another example, although not shown in the figures, it is also possible that one or both of the engaged part for provisional tacking 3 c and the locked part for lock 3d are formed in convex shapes on the one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3 and one or both of the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c and the locking part for lock 4d are formed in concave shapes on the opposed surface of the plate-like body 4a of the lock member 4. [0030]

With the lock device of the lever type pipe joint A according to the example 1 of the present invention, it is possible to relatively widely secure a recession-projection fitting area of the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c and the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c. Therefore, the cam arm 3 is more surely provisionally tacked and held in the unlocked position PL Therefore, even if one or both of the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c and the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c are worn by repetition of engagement and disengagement thereof, it is possible to surely provisionally tack and hold the cam arm 3.

As a result, there is an advantage that it is possible to provisionally tack and hold the cam arm 3 in the unlocked position PL [0031]

Further, in the example 1, the cam arm 3 includes a smooth surface part 3h formed to project to cover the lock member 4 in the lock position P2. Consequently, an operation surface of the cam arm 3 in contact with the palm of the operator is widened.

In the example shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4, on the plane of the cam arm 3 in contact with the lock member 4 when being turned to the lock position P2, the smooth surface part 3h is formed to project at not only the end edge of the one side surface 3e opposed to the lock member 4 but also the end edge of the other side surface 3g on the opposite side and formed in a substantially T shape in cross section.

Further, on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a, a cover part 4g covering a cut surface of the lock member 4 is formed. As the cover part 4g, a cut edge of the plate-like body 4a integrally formed with the locking part for lock 4d is bent in a reverse L shape in cross section to the opposite side of the cam arm 3 to prevent the cut edge of the plate-like body 4a from being exposed.

As another example, although not shown in die figures, it is also possible that, on the plane of the cam arm 3, the smooth surface part 3h is formed to project and formed in a substantially L shape in cross section such that only the end edge of the one side surface 3e opposed to the lock member 4 covers the-lock member 4, or the cover part 4g is changed to another shape. [0032]

With such, a lock device of the lever type pipe joint A according to the example 1 of the present invention, the area of the operation surface in contact with the palm of the operator is widened. Therefore, during the turning operation of the cam arm 3, the operation surface of the cam arm 3 less easily bites into the palm.

Therefore, there is an advantage that it is possible to lighten the turning operation of the cam arm 3 and facilitate lever operation.
Further, the cam arm 3 is turned to the lock position P2, whereby the lock member 4 is covered by the smooth surface part 3h of the cam arm 3. Therefore, the palm of the operator does not bump against the end edge of the lock member 4 with excessive motion.

Therefore, there is an advantage that, when the cam arm 3 is turned to the lock position P2, the operator does not feel pain in the palm and can safely operate the cam arm 3.

When the cover part 4g that covers the cut surface of the lock member 4 is formed, there is an advantage that injuries can be prevented even if a finger or the like is pinched between the smooth surface part 3h of the cam arm 3 and the lock member 4.

[0033]
In particular, as shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4, when the smooth surface part 3h is formed to project not only at one side end opposed to the lock member 4 but also at the other side end on the opposite side on the plane of the cam arm 3 and formed in a substantially T shape in cross section, a contact area with the palm increases when the cam arm 3 is turned to the lock position P2. Therefore, there is an advantage that, during the turning operation of the cam arm 3, the plane of the cam arm 3 does not bite into the palm, the turning operation of the cam arm 3 is further lightened, and the cam arm 3 can more smoothly turned.

[0034]
In the example shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4, an inner screw is provided in the one end opening of the coupler 1 as connecting means lg for connecting the first pipe body B. An outer screw pipe (not shown in the figures) screwing in the inner screw is inserted into the first pipe body B, whereby the first pipe body B is detachably connected to the one end opening of the coupler 1. An inner screw is provided in the one end opening of the adapter 2 as connecting means 2d for connecting the second pipe body C. An outer screw pipe (not shown in the figures) screwing in the inner screw is inserted into the second pipe body C, whereby the second pipe body C is detachably connected to the one end opening of the adapter 2.

As another example, although not shown in the figures, changes are also possible, for example, an outer screw is protrudingly provided instead of the inner screw as the connecting means lg provided in the one end opening of the coupler 1, the first pipe body B inserted with an inner screw pipe screwing with the outer screw is detachably connected or a bamboo shoot nipple is integrally protrudingly provided as the connecting means lg to detachably connect a. flexible hose or the like, an outer screw is protrudingly provided instead of the inner screw as the connecting means 2d provided in the one end opening of the adapter 2 to detachably connect the second pipe body C inserted with an inner screw pipe screwed with the outer screw, a bamboo shoot nipple is integrally protrudingly provided as the connecting means 2d to detachably connect a pipe body having flexibility such as a hose, or bamboo shoot nipples are connected as the first pipe body B and the second pipe body C to respectively attach flexible hoses or the like.

[0035]
Further, in the example shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4, the coupler 1 is formed of metal such as an aluminum alloy, stainless steel, or bronze.

As another example, as in a modification shown in Figs. 5(a) and 5(b), the coupler 1 can also be formed of rigid synthetic resin such as polypropylene.

In this modification, the cam arm 3, the lock member 4, and the other components are configured the same as those in the example shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4.

Example 2

[0036]
As shown in Figs. 6(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 7, an example 2 is different from the example 1 shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4 in a configuration in which the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c is formed at the end edge (a corner portion) of the cam arm 3 to be opposed to and recession-projection-fit with the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c of the lock member 4 each other. Otherwise, the example 2 is the same as the example 1.
In the example shown in Figs. 6(a) and 6(b) and Fig. 7, the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c is integrally formed at a concave end edge (corner portion) formed along the one side surface 3e and the bottom surface 3f of the cam arm 3. The locked part for lock 3d is integrally formed in a concave shape on the one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3. A part to be formed as the locked part for lock 3d on the one side surface 3e of the cam arm 3 is recessed in a hemispherical shape or another shape by cutting or pressing.

On side surfaces of the plate-like body 4a of the lock member 4, the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c and the locking part for lock 4d are respectively integrally formed in a convex shape. The engaging part for provisional tacking 4c is disposed on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a. The locking part for lock 4d is disposed on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the plate-like body 4a. Specifically, parts to be formed as the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c and the locking part for lock 4d on the side surfaces of the plate¬like body 4a are projected from the rear surface side of the parts by pressing or the like.

As another example, although not shown in the figures, like the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c, the locked part for lock 3d can be integrally formed at the end edge (the corner portion) of the cam arm 3.

[0037]
With such a lock device of the lever type pipe joint A according to the example 2 of the present invention, the end edge (the corner portion) of the cam arm 3 is formed as the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c. Therefore, it is unnecessary to apply new additional machining such as cutting or pressing to the cam arm 3 as the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c.

Therefore, the conventionally used cam arm 3 not including a provisional tacking mechanism can be effectively used as it is.

Consequently, compared with the example 1 shown in Figs. 1(a) and 1(b) to Fig. 4, a further reduction in costs can be attained. The lock device and the lock member are economical and protection of the natural environment can be attained.

Although not shown in the figures in particular, when the locked part for lock 3d is integrally formed at the end edge (the corner portion) of the cam arm 3 like the engaged part for provisional tacking 3c, it is unnecessary to apply new additional machining such as cutting or pressing to the cam arm 3 as the locked part for lock 3d. Therefore, there is an advantage that the conventionally used cam arm 3 not having a provisional tacking mechanism and a lock mechanism can be effectively used as it is and a further reduction in costs can be attained.

[0038]
Note that the engaging part for provisional tacking 4c of the lock member 4 is not limited to the examples and the illustrated examples explained above and may be formed in other shapes.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[0039]

A lever type pipe joint

1 coupler

la first tubular part lb bearing part le outer surface

2 adapter

2a second tabular part

3 cam arm

3c engaged part for provisional.tacking 3h smooth surface part

4 lock member
4a plate-like body

4b stopper part

4c engaging part for provisional tacking 4d locking part for lock 4f pressure part

5 elastic means

PI unlocked position P2 lock position

CLAIMS

What is claim is: ,. [Claim 1]

A lock device of a lever type pipe joint comprising:

a coupler including a first tubular part;

an adapter including a second tubular part detachably inserted into said first tubular part in an axial direction;

a cam arm rotatably and pivotally attached to a bearing part, which is formed to project from an outer surface of said coupler, between an unlocked position and a lock position, said cam arm making said second tubular part movable in the axial direction with respect to said first tubular part when said cam arm is in said unlocked position and making said second tubular part unmovable in the axial direction with respect to said first tubular part when said cam arm is in said lock position; and
a lock member pivotally attached to said bearing part of said coupler together with said cam arm, said lock member unrotatably locking said cam arm toward said unlocked position when said cam arm turns to said lock position,

wherein said lock member includes: a plate-like body pivotally attached to said bearing part; a locking part for lock formed in said plate-like body to unrotatably engage with said cam arm in said lock position; and a pressure part that is opposed to said locking part for lock in said plate-like body and moves said locking part for lock in a direction for separating said locking part for lock from said cam arm, and elastic means for pressing said plate-like body to a side of said cam arm is provided along said lock member.

[Claim 2]

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[Claim 3]

The lock device of a lever type pipe joint according to claim 1, wherein said cam arm includes a smooth surface part formed to project and cover said lock member in said lock position.

[Claim 4]

The lock device of a lever type pipe joint according to claim 1, wherein said lock member includes an engaging part for provisional tacking formed in said plate-like body to unrotatably engage with said cam arm in said unlocked position.

[Claim 5]

The lock device of a lever type pipe joint according to claim 4, wherein said plate-like body of said lock member is configured to be elastically deformable in an engaging direction of said engaging part for provisional tacking and said cam arm.

[Claim 6]

The lock device of a lever type pipe joint according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said cam arm includes an engaged part for provisional tacking formed on an opposed surface to said plate-like body or at an end edge of said cam arm to be opposed to and recession-projection-fit with said engaging part for provisional tacking of said lock member each other.

[Claim 7]

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[Claim 8]

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