Railway installation comprising a device for activating and deactivating at least one apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to a railway installation comprising a fluid conveying network, an apparatus which is connected thereto and which is configured to be activated or deactivated according to an upper threshold and a lower threshold for the fluid pressure, and a device (9) for activating and deactivating the apparatus, connected, as input, to the network and, as output, to the apparatus; the device (9) being configured to adopt a first configuration in which the apparatus is deactivated, or respectively activated, when the pressurized fluid is below the lower threshold or below the upper threshold; a second configuration in which the apparatus is activated, or respectively deactivated, when the pressurized fluid reaches the upper threshold; and a third configuration, when the fluid is below the upper threshold and above an intermediate pressure threshold which is higher than the lower threshold, in which the apparatus is activated, or respectively deactivated.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to a railway installation comprising a fluid routing network, at least one apparatus connected to the fluid routing network and configured to be activated or deactivated according to an upper fluid pressure threshold and a lower fluid pressure threshold, and a device for activating and deactivating said at least one apparatus, connected, at the input, to the fluid routing network and, at the output, to the at least one apparatus.

[002] The invention also relates to a railway vehicle comprising such an installation.

[003] The invention also relates to such a device for activating and deactivating at least one apparatus, configured to be connected, at the input, to a fluid routing network and, at the output, to the at least one apparatus. PRIOR ART

[004] Railway vehicles may be provided with a railway installation comprising a fluid routing network and a plurality of apparatuses configured to operate the installation and interconnected in the fluid routing network.

[005] The different apparatuses may be operated with a defined fluid pressure. In particular, it may be necessary to activate and / or deactivate an apparatus according to an upper fluid pressure threshold and a lower fluid pressure threshold.

[006] An example of such an apparatus is a compressor configured to supply a general or main pipe, or an auxiliary tank, of the railway vehicle.

[007] Thus, the installation is provided with at least one activation and deactivation device configured to activate and / or deactivate the apparatus according to a pressure gradient detected by the apparatus, which may be positive or negative.

[008] At the input, the activation and deactivation device is connected to the fluid routing network, and, at the output, the activation and deactivation device is connected to the apparatus.

[009] The activation and deactivation device may therefore be configured to activate the apparatus when the fluid pressure reaches the upper fluid pressure threshold, starting from a lower pressure, and to deactivate the apparatus when the fluid pressure reaches the lower fluid pressure threshold, starting from a higher pressure, or vice versa.

[010] In particular, such an activation and deactivation device may comprise a body delimiting a pressure chamber, a piston movable inside this pressure chamber against a spring member, an end rod mounted on the movable piston projecting from the pressure chamber, and a switch mounted facing the end rod.

[011] When the pressure in the pressure chamber increases, the piston moves against the force exerted by the spring member and the end rod moves closer to the switch until it comes into contact with it and engages it, in order to activate or deactivate the apparatus.

[012] Conversely, when the pressure in the pressure chamber drops, the piston moves due to the action of the spring member and the end rod moves away from the switch and disengages it, so as to deactivate or activate the apparatus.

[013] Thus, the above-described activation and deactivation device is configured to allow: a first configuration when the pressurised fluid exceeds for example the first fluid pressure threshold, in which the piston and the end rod are each in a deployed position with the end rod in contact with the actuator; and a second configuration when the pressurised fluid falls for example below the second fluid pressure threshold, in which the piston and the end rod are each in a retracted position with the end rod at a distance from the actuator. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[014] The present invention relates to a railway installation having an activation and deactivation device of the type described above, which is particularly effective while remaining convenient and economical.

[015] Thus, the invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a railway installation comprising a fluid routing network, at least one apparatus connected to the fluid routing network and configured to be activated or deactivated according to an upper fluid pressure threshold and a lower fluid pressure threshold, and a device for activating and deactivating said at least one apparatus, connected, at the input, to the fluid routing network and, at the output, to the at least one apparatus; the activation and deactivation device comprising: - an activation and deactivation member connected to the at least one apparatus; - a body comprising a lower chamber; - a control member arranged movable in the lower chamber and delimiting with the body a pressure chamber connected to the fluid routing network, the control member further having an actuating rod comprising an end portion extending out of the lower chamber, the control member being configured to be moved in the lower chamber under the effect of the pressurised fluid between a first position of the control member in which the activation and deactivation member is deactivated, respectively activated, and a second position of the control member in which the activation and deactivation member is activated, respectively deactivated; - a contact mechanism configured to be moved by the end portion of the actuating rod between a first position in which the contact mechanism disengages, respectively engages, the activation and deactivation member, and a second position in which the contact mechanism engages, respectively disengages, the activation              and              deactivation              member; the activation and deactivation device being configured to allow: - a first configuration, when the pressurised fluid is below the lower fluid pressure threshold or below the upper fluid pressure threshold, in which the control member and the contact mechanism are in their respective first position or between their first position and their respective second position; - a second configuration, when the pressurised fluid reaches the upper fluid pressure threshold, in which the control member and the contact mechanism are in their respective second position; with the activation and deactivation device which further comprises a holding mechanism configured to hold the contact mechanism in its second position, and a return mechanism configured to move the contact mechanism from its second position in which it is held, to its first position; and the activation and deactivation device which is configured to allow a third configuration, when the pressurised fluid is below the upper fluid pressure threshold and above an intermediate fluid pressure threshold which is higher than the lower fluid pressure threshold, a third configuration in which the control member is in an intermediate position between its first position and its second position, and the holding mechanism holds, against the return mechanism, the contact mechanism in its second position.

[016] In the installation according to the invention, it is possible to hold the contact mechanism in its second position, corresponding to the engagement or disengagement of the activation and deactivation member, as long as the pressurised fluid has a pressure value lower than the upper threshold, but higher than or equal to the intermediate threshold.

[017] Thanks to the activation and deactivation device, there is no engagement, or disengagement, once the pressurised fluid has a pressure value lower than the upper threshold.

[018] Nonetheless, when the pressurised fluid is below the intermediate threshold, then the activation and deactivation device is in its first configuration.

[019] In other words, once the pressurised fluid has a pressure value lower than the intermediate threshold, then the holding mechanism no longer holds, against the return member, the contact member in its second position, but the return member returns the contact member to its first position.

[020] Preferred, simple, convenient and economical features of the railway installation according to the invention are described hereinafter.

[021] The contact mechanism is mechanically secured to the end portion of the actuating rod and mounted at least partially sliding on the end portion and / or pivoting relative to the end portion.

[022] The return mechanism comprises an upper stop member arranged on the end portion of the actuating rod and which is configured to drive by contact, directly or indirectly, the contact mechanism from its second position to its first position.

[023] The upper stop member is configured to bear directly on the contact mechanism to drive it from its second position to its first position.

[024] The return mechanism further comprises at least one intermediate part on which the upper stop member acts to drive by contact the contact mechanism from its second position to its first position.

[025] The intermediate part is formed by a return spring and / or by a spacer and / or by a return lever.

[026] The contact mechanism comprises a sleeve movable in translation on the end portion of the actuating rod.

[027] The contact mechanism comprises a lever movable in rotation relative to the body and which is secured in translation and / or rotation to the end portion of the actuating rod.

[028] The activation and deactivation device comprises a lower stop member arranged on the end portion of the actuating rod, and which is configured to drive by contact the contact mechanism from its first position to its second position.

[029] The holding mechanism comprises at least one elastic element configured to exert an elastic holding force directly or indirectly on the contact mechanism, so that the elastic element holds the contact mechanism in its second position in the second configuration and in the third configuration of the activation and deactivation device.

[030] The holding mechanism further comprises a holding part which is acted upon by the at least one elastic element and the contact mechanism comprises a complementary holding member configured to cooperate with the holding part of the holding mechanism in the second configuration and in the third configuration of the activation and deactivation device.

[031] The at least one elastic element is configured to allow a first stable position in which it acts on the contact mechanism which is away from its second position and a second stable position in which it acts on the contact mechanism which is in its second position, the at least one elastic element further allowing a switching position for switching from one to the other of its first stable position and its second stable position via an external action

[032] The contact mechanism comprises an end head and the holding mechanism comprises a shoe arranged between the at least one elastic element and the end head of the contact mechanism, with the shoe and the end head which are configured to cooperate, by friction and / or by a stop, so as to hold the contact mechanism in its second position in the second configuration and in the third configuration of the activation and deactivation device.

[033] The body of the activation and deactivation device comprises a secondary cavity and the holding mechanism is formed by a holding piston arranged movable in the secondary cavity and delimiting with the body a secondary pressure chamber connected to the fluid routing network, the holding piston being provided with a holding piston rod which is configured on the one hand to form a stop in position when the contact mechanism is in its second position and on the other hand to move aside when the pressurised fluid has a pressure value lower than the intermediate threshold.

[034] The return member may further comprise an intermediate part disposed between one of the first stop and the second stop and the contact member.

[035] The invention also relates, according to a second aspect, to a railway vehicle comprising an installation as described above.

[036] The invention also relates, according to a third aspect, to a device for activating and deactivating at least one apparatus, configured to be connected, at the input, to a fluid routing network and, at the output, to the at least one apparatus, the activation and deactivation device comprising: - an activation and deactivation member connected to the at least one apparatus; - a body comprising a lower chamber; - a control member arranged movable in the lower chamber and delimiting with the body a pressure chamber connected to the fluid routing network, the control member further having an actuating rod comprising an end portion extending out of the lower chamber, the control member being configured to be moved in the lower chamber under the effect of the pressurised fluid between a first position of the control member in which the activation and deactivation member is deactivated, respectively activated, and a second position of the control member in which the activation and deactivation member is activated, respectively deactivated; - a contact mechanism configured to be moved by the end portion of the actuating rod between a first position in which the contact mechanism disengages, respectively engages, the activation and deactivation member, and a second position in which the contact mechanism engages, respectively disengages, the activation and deactivation member; the activation and deactivation device being configured to allow: - a first configuration, when the pressurised fluid is below the lower fluid pressure threshold or below the upper fluid pressure threshold, in which the control member and the contact mechanism are in their respective first position or between their first position and their respective second position; - a second configuration, when the pressurised fluid reaches the upper fluid pressure threshold, in which the control member and the contact mechanism are in their respective second position; with the activation and deactivation device which further comprises a holding mechanism configured to hold the contact mechanism in its second position, and a return mechanism configured to move the contact mechanism from its second position in which it is held, to its first position; and the activation and deactivation device which is configured to allow a third configuration, when the pressurised fluid is below the upper fluid pressure threshold and above an intermediate fluid pressure threshold which is higher than the lower fluid pressure threshold, a third configuration in which the control member is in an intermediate position between its first position and its second position, and the holding mechanism holds, against the return mechanism, the contact mechanism in its second position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[037] The invention, according to an exemplary embodiment, will be better understood and the advantages thereof will become clearer upon reading the following detailed description, given by way of indication and without limitation, with reference to the appended drawings.

[038] Figure 1 schematically represents a railway installation comprising in particular a fluid routing network comprising a pressure agent, a railway system comprising an apparatus and a device for activating and deactivating the apparatus.

[039] Figure 2 is a sectional view schematically representing the activation and deactivation device according to one embodiment and in a first state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure agent in the fluid routing network is equal to a first pressure value.

[040] Figure 3 is similar to Figure 2 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a second state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure agent in the fluid routing network is equal to a second pressure value higher than the first pressure value.

[041] Figure 4 is similar to Figure 2 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a third state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure agent in the fluid routing network is equal to a third pressure value higher than the first pressure value and the second pressure value.

[042] Figure 5 is similar to Figure 2 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a fourth state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure agent in the fluid routing network is equal to a fourth pressure value higher than the first, second and third pressure values.

[043] Figure 6 is similar to Figure 2 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a fifth state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure agent in the fluid routing network is equal to a fifth pressure value lower than the fourth pressure value.

[044] Figure 7 is similar to Figure 2 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a sixth state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure agent in the fluid routing network is equal to a sixth pressure value lower than the fourth and fifth pressure values.

[045] Figure 8 is similar to Figure 2 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a seventh state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure agent in the fluid routing network is equal to a seventh pressure value lower than the fourth, fifth and sixth pressure values.

[046] Figure 9 is a sectional view schematically and partially representing a first variant of the activation and deactivation device seen in Figures 2 to 8, in a first state in which the activation and deactivation device deactivates the apparatus.

[047] Figure 10 is similar to Figure 9 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a second state in which it activates the apparatus.

[048] Figure 11 is a sectional view schematically and partially representing a second variant of the activation and deactivation device seen in Figures 2 to 8, in a first state in which the activation and deactivation device deactivates the apparatus.

[049] Figure 12 is similar to Figure 11 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a second state in which it activates the apparatus.

[050] Figure 13 is a sectional view schematically and partially representing a third variant of the activation and deactivation device seen in Figures 2 to 8, in a first state in which the activation and deactivation device deactivates the apparatus.

[051] Figure 14 is similar to Figure 13, and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a second state in which it activates the apparatus.

[052] Figure 15 is a sectional view schematically and partially representing a fourth variant of the activation and deactivation device seen in Figures 2 to 8, in a first state in which the activation and deactivation device deactivates the apparatus.

[053] Figure 16 is similar to Figure 15 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a second state in which it activates the apparatus.

[054] Figure 17 is a sectional view schematically representing a fifth variant of the activation and deactivation device seen in Figures 2 to 8, in a first state in which the activation and deactivation device deactivates the apparatus.

[055] Figure 18 is similar to Figure 17 and schematically represents the activation and deactivation device in a second state in which it activates the apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[056] Figure 1 schematically represents a railway installation 1, which may for example be a railway vehicle, comprising a fluid routing network 2 and at least one pressure agent source supplying the fluid routing network 2.

[057] In particular, the pressure agent is pneumatic, but it could be hydraulic.

[058] The railway installation 1 also comprises at least one apparatus 3, connected to the fluid routing network 2 and which can be fluidically supplied by the latter.

[059] The railway installation 1 may comprise a railway system of which the apparatus 3 may be part.

[060] In the illustrated example, the system is a railway braking system which may comprise a brake cylinder 4 configured to act on a pad or shoe brake (not shown) and which is fluidically supplied by the fluid routing network 2.

[061] In the example illustrated in Figure 1, the apparatus 3 is a pressure agent compressor.

[062] The fluid routing network 2 here comprises a so-called main pipe 5, and a so-called general pipe 6, each running along the railway installation 1.

[063] The main pipe 5 is a pipe in which a pressure agent flows at a first pressure, for example between 7 and 9 bar, whereas a pressure agent at a second pressure lower than the first pressure, for example between 0 and 5 bar, flows in the general pipe 6.

[064] The apparatus 3 is fluidically connected to the main pipe 5 and makes it possible to supply the main pipe 5 with pressure agent at the higher pressure.

[065] The fluid routing network 2 may comprise a driver's brake valve 7 which fluidically connects the main pipe 5 to the general pipe 6.

[066] The fluid routing network 2 may further comprise an auxiliary tank 8 which is fluidically connected to both the main pipe 5 and the general pipe 6.

[067] In the illustrated example, the brake cylinder 4 is fluidically connected to the auxiliary tank 8 for supplying the brake cylinder 4 and applying or releasing a braking function.

[068] Furthermore, the railway installation 1 also comprises an activation and deactivation device 9 which is intended to activate and deactivate the apparatus 3.

[069] The fluid routing network 2 comprises a supply pipe 10 tapped onto the main pipe 5 and to which the activation and deactivation device 9 is fluidically connected at the input.

[070] The activation and deactivation device 9 is further connected at the output to the apparatus 3.

[071] In particular, the output may be an electrical connection (shown as a dashed line in Figure 1).

[072] The activation and deactivation device 9 makes it possible to activate or deactivate the apparatus 3 according to the pressure of the fluid in the fluid routing network 2.

[073] In particular, the apparatus 3 may be activated or deactivated according to at least an upper fluid pressure threshold and a lower fluid pressure threshold.

[074] In the illustrated example, the activation and deactivation device 9 allows the apparatus 3 to be activated when the pressure of the pressure agent in the main pipe 5 falls below a lower fluid pressure threshold, for example below 7 bar, and allows the apparatus 3 to be deactivated when the pressure of the pressure agent in the main pipe 5 passes above an upper fluid pressure threshold, for example above 9 bar.

[075] In other words, here, the activation and deactivation device 9 allows the apparatus 3, here the compressor, to be activated when the pressure in the main pipe 5 decreases, for example because of leaks in the fluid routing network 2, to be kept activated until the pressure reaches a sufficient pressure in the main pipe 5, and then deactivate it.

[076] Thus, the activation and deactivation device 9 here combines in a single device two functions, namely the function of activating the apparatus 3 according to a so-called lower pressure level, and the function of deactivating the apparatus 3 according to a so-called upper pressure level.

[077] Figure 2 is a sectional view of the activation and deactivation device 9 according to one embodiment.

[078] The activation and deactivation device 9 is provided with a body 11 comprising a wall 12 and a lower chamber 13 delimited by the wall 12.

[079] In the illustrated example, the body 11 also comprises an upper chamber 14 delimited by the wall 12, and which is adjacent to the lower chamber 13.

[080] Here, the wall 12 comprises an opening 15 through which the upper chamber 14 and the lower chamber 13 communicate.

[081] The activation and deactivation device 9 comprises a drive assembly 16 arranged in the lower chamber 13, and an actuation assembly 17 arranged in the upper chamber 14.

[082] The drive assembly 16 is configured to move the actuation assembly 17.

[083] The drive assembly 16 comprises a control member 18 arranged movable in the lower chamber 13, and which can be moved under the effect of the pressure agent travelling in the fluid routing network 2.

[084] The control member 18 comprises a piston head 19 arranged movable in the lower chamber 13, and an actuating rod 20 extending from the piston head 19 into the lower chamber 13 and which is oriented towards the upper chamber 14.

[085] The actuating rod 20 comprises an end portion 21 which extends out of the lower chamber 13, and here extends into the upper chamber 14 through the opening 15.

[086] The body 11 may comprise a cover 22 which makes it possible to close the lower chamber 13.

[087] On the side of the piston head 19 opposite to the actuating rod 20, the piston head 19 defines with the wall 12 of the body 11 as well as with the cover 22 a pressure chamber 23 in the lower chamber 13.

[088] The drive assembly 16 may also comprise a membrane clamp 26 inserted into the lower chamber 13 and defining a shoulder for the piston head 19 of the control member 18, i.e. the membrane clamp 26 defines a maximum travel of the control member 18.

[089] Moreover, the drive assembly 16 may comprise a membrane 27, the periphery of which may be engaged between the membrane clamp 26 and the cover 22 closing the lower chamber 13, which makes it possible to ensure tightness of the pressure chamber 23.

[090] In other words, the pressure chamber 23 is here delimited by the cover 22 and the membrane 27, which is flexible and deformable and which follows the movement of the control member 18.

[091] The cover 22 comprises a filling opening 28, to which the supply pipe 10 may be connected, which makes it possible to connect the pressure chamber 23 to the fluid routing network 2, and thus its supply by the latter.

[092] Furthermore, the drive assembly 16 comprises a return spring 29 disposed in the lower chamber 13, between the piston head 19 of the control member 18 and the wall 12 of the body 11.

[093] The drive assembly 16 may also comprise one or more adjusting washers or shims 30, which may be disposed in the lower chamber 13 between the wall 12 of the body 11 and the return spring 29, which bears on the adjusting shims 30, which makes it possible to adjust pre-stressing of the return spring 29 according to the number of adjusting shims 30 used.

[094] The return spring 29 has the effect of returning the control member 18 against the pressure agent acting on the control member 18 and which tends to move it in the direction of the upper chamber 14.

[095] The drive assembly 16 may also comprise a first ring 24 arranged in the opening 15, and a second ring 25 arranged on the periphery of the piston head 19, these rings each forming a smooth bearing, which facilitates sliding of the control member 18 in the lower chamber 13.

[096] The activation and deactivation device 9 comprises an activation and deactivation member 31 which is connected, herein electrically, at the output to the apparatus 3.

[097] The actuation assembly 17 is configured to act on the activation and deactivation member 31, and comprises a contact mechanism 32 configured to act on the activation and deactivation member 31, and a return mechanism 33 configured to move the contact mechanism 32 under the effect of the control member 18.

[098] Thus, the activation and deactivation member 31, and therefore the apparatus 3, may be activated or deactivated via the control member 18, on which the pressure agent, which is pressurised in the pressure chamber 23, acts.

[099] For example, the activation and deactivation member 31 is a reversing switch or electrical switch, also referred to as switch.

[100] The actuation assembly 17 also comprises a holding mechanism 34 configured to hold the contact mechanism 32 in a position in which it acts on the activation and deactivation member 31, which is herein a position in which the apparatus 3 is activated, as described in more detail hereinafter in the description.

[101] The actuation assembly 17 is configured to engage, respectively disengage, the activation and deactivation member 31 when the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 exceeds an upper pressure threshold, when the pressure in the pressure chamber 23 increases, and to disengage, respectively engage, the activation and deactivation member 31 when the pressure of the fluid in the pressure chamber 23 falls below a lower pressure threshold, when the pressure in the pressure chamber 23 decreases.

[102] Thus, the activation and deactivation device 9 makes it possible to engage and disengage the activation and deactivation member 31 at different pressure levels according to the direction of evolution of the pressure in the pressure chamber 23.

[103] The contact mechanism 32 comprises a sleeve 35 which is here arranged on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, and a needle 40 which can be moved by the sleeve 35 so as to mechanically act on the activation and deactivation member 31.

[104] The sleeve 35 is inserted freely on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[105] In other words, the sleeve 35 is movable in translation on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[106] The end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is provided with a lower stop member 36, arranged on the control member 18 on one side of the sleeve 35 directed towards the lower chamber 13.

[107] The lower stop member 36 allows moving the sleeve 35 with the control member 18 when the sleeve 35 is at a stop with the lower stop member 36, in particular when the control member 18 is in a first position, when it is moved in the direction of the upper chamber 14 under the effect of an increasing pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23.

[108] For its part, the return mechanism 33 is configured to move the sleeve 35 with the control member 18 particularly when the control member 18 is in a second position, when it is moved in the direction of the lower chamber 13 under the effect of a decreasing pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23.

[109] In the illustrated example, the return mechanism 33 comprises an upper stop member 37 of the sleeve 35, which is arranged on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 on the side of the sleeve 35 opposite to the lower stop member 36.

[110] The upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36 are separated by a distance larger than the dimension of the sleeve 35 along a general extension direction of the actuating rod 20.

[111] Thus, the control member 18 may slide in the sleeve 35 between the upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36 without generating movement of the sleeve 35.

[112] Furthermore, the sleeve 35 may therefore also slide relative to the actuating rod 20 between the upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36.

[113] The upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36 may each be embodied respectively by a pair of first nuts 38 and a pair of second nuts 39 mounted in a locknut configuration on the actuating rod 20, which is threaded here.

[114] In the illustrated example, the distance between the upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36 may be adjusted by screwing and unscrewing the nuts 38 and 39, as described hereinafter in the description.

[115] The sleeve 35 is configured to move the needle 40 so as to mechanically act on the activation and deactivation member 31.

[116] Alternatively, the needle may be replaced by a ball or a roller.

[117] In the illustrated example, the actuation assembly 17 comprises a first block 41, arranged around the sleeve 35, and which is provided with a through opening 42 in which the sleeve 35 can slide.

[118] The first block 41 is secured to the wall 12, for example by screwing.

[119] The activation and deactivation member 31 comprises a contactor or switch 43, and the first block 41 is herein provided with a first groove 44 at the bottom of which the switch 43 is arranged.

[120] The first groove 44 here extends in-depth in a direction substantially orthogonal to the extension direction of the through opening 42 and therefore of the sleeve 35.

[121] The needle 40 is arranged movable in the first groove 44, so as to be able to mechanically act on the switch 43 when the needle 40 is at the bottom of the first groove 44.

[122] Here, the depth of the first groove 44 corresponds substantially to the diameter of the needle 40.

[123] The sleeve 35 comprises an outer wall 46 and a second groove 45 formed in the outer wall 46, in which the needle 40 may be at least partially housed.

[124] In the illustrated example, the second groove 45 has an asymmetrical section, with a slope of the second groove 45 which is slighter on the side facing the lower chamber 13, and steeper on the side opposite thereto.

[125] In particular, a flat section of variable dimension may be arranged in the second groove 45, such that the sleeve 35 has a variable outer diameter at the second groove 45.

[126] When the sleeve 35 slides in the through opening 42, the needle 40 which is in contact with the outer diameter of the sleeve 35 may be driven in translation in the first groove 44.

[127] The contact mechanism 32 may allow a first position, in which the sleeve 35 is in a first position in which the second groove 45 is facing the first groove 44, and the needle 40 is in a first position in which it is at the bottom of the second groove 45, at the entry of the first groove 44 and at a distance from the switch 43.

[128] The contact mechanism 32 may also allow a second position, in which the sleeve 35 is in a second position in which the second groove 45 is no longer facing the first groove 44, and the needle 40 is in a second position in which it is in contact with the outer wall 46 of the sleeve 35, at the bottom of the first groove 44 and in contact with the switch 43

[129] The holding mechanism 34 here comprises a lock 47 which cooperates with the sleeve 35 to hold the latter in its first position, respectively in its second position.

[130] The sleeve 35 comprises at least one third groove 48 formed in the outer wall 46, and in which the lock 47 may be at least partially housed.

[131] In the illustrated example, the sleeve 35 also comprises a fourth groove 49, which may be directly adjacent to the third groove 48 and be similar to the latter.

[132] Here, the third groove 48 and the fourth groove 49 are arranged one on top of the other.

[133] In particular, the fourth groove 49 is located on the sleeve 35 substantially at the same height as the second groove 45.

[134] The sleeve 35 is held in its first position when the lock 47 is housed in the third groove 48, and held in its second position when the lock 47 is housed in the fourth groove 49.

[135] In the illustrated example, the first block 41 comprises a radial opening 50, substantially at the same height as the first groove 44, and the lock 47 comprises, starting from one side of the radial opening 50 which is proximal to the sleeve 35 and in this order, a second needle 51 which may also be replaced by a ball or a roller, a movable pin 52, a helical spring 53 and an adjusting screw 54.

[136] The second needle 51, the movable pin 52, the helical spring 53 and the adjusting screw 54 are housed in the radial opening 50.

[137] The second needle 51 and the movable pin 52 are movable in translation in the radial opening 50, and the adjusting screw 54 is screwed into the end of the radial opening 50 which is distal to the sleeve 35, this end being for example threaded here.

[138] Thus, the helical spring 53, which is herein for example a compression spring, is engaged between the adjusting screw 54 and the movable pin 52, which makes it possible to return the movable pin 52 and the second needle 51 in the direction of the sleeve 35, and exerting a retaining force on the sleeve 35.

[139] When the second needle 51 is housed at least partially in the fourth groove 49, the sleeve 35 is held in its first position in which the first needle 40 is housed at least partially in the second groove 45, and does not act on the switch 43.

[140] When the second needle 51 is housed at least partially in the third groove 48, the sleeve 35 is held in its second position in which the first needle 40 is driven by the sleeve 35 into the bottom of the first groove 44, and acts on the switch 43.

[141] The operation of the activation and deactivation device 9 will now be described, still with reference to Figure 2 as well as Figures 3 to 8 which show different states of the activation and deactivation device 9.

[142] In Figure 2, the activation and deactivation device 9 is in a state in which the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 is equal to a first value, for example a zero value relative to the atmosphere.

[143] The control member 18 is in a first position, here a low extreme position.

[144] The upper stop member 37 is in immediate proximity to, or even in contact with, the sleeve 35 while the lower stop member 36 is at a distance from the sleeve 35.

[145] The second needle 51 of the holding mechanism 34 is housed in the fourth groove 49 of the sleeve 35, which is in its first position, and the contact mechanism 32 is in its first position, with the first needle 40 which is in its first position, housed in the second groove 45 of the sleeve 35, and in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[146] In the state shown in Figure 2, the activation and deactivation device 9 does not activate the apparatus 3.

[147] Figure 3 shows the activation and deactivation device 9 in another state in which the pressure of the fluid in the pressure chamber 23 has increased relative to the state shown in Figure 2, for example at 5 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[148] In the state shown in Figure 3, neither the upper stop member 37 nor the lower stop member 36 are in contact with the sleeve 35.

[149] In particular, the upper stop member 37 has moved away from the sleeve 35 while the lower stop member 36 has moved closer to the sleeve 35.

[150] The second needle 51 of the holding mechanism 34 is still housed in the fourth groove 49 of the sleeve 35, which is in its first position, and the contact mechanism 32 is in its first position, with the first needle 40 which is in its first position, housed in the second groove 45, in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[151] Thus, the holding mechanism 34 holds the sleeve 35 in its first position, which remains unchanged compared to the position of the sleeve 35 shown in Figure 2.

[152] In the state shown in Figure 3, the activation and deactivation device 9 still does not activate the apparatus 3.

[153] Figure 4 shows the activation and deactivation device 9 in a state in which the pressure of the fluid in the pressure chamber 23 has further increased relative to Figures 2 and 3, for example to 10 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[154] The upper stop member 37 has moved further away from the sleeve 35 and is not in contact with the latter, while the lower stop member 36 has moved even closer to the sleeve 35 until it comes into contact with the sleeve 35, and pushes it.

[155] The sleeve 35, which starts moving upwards in Figure 4, moves the second needle 51 of the holding mechanism 34 in the through opening 42 against the helical spring 53, and is no longer housed in the fourth groove 49 of the sleeve 35, but is located between the third groove 48 and the fourth groove 49.

[156] The sleeve 35 is between its first position and its second position, and the contact mechanism 32 is progressively pushed into its second position, in the direction of the switch 43, which is nonetheless not acted upon.

[157] Nonetheless, in the state shown in Figure 4, the activation and deactivation device 9 still does not activate the apparatus 3.

[158] Figure 5 shows the activation and deactivation device 9 in yet another state in which the pressure of the fluid in the pressure chamber 23 has further increased relative to Figures 2 to 4, for example to 11 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[159] The control member 18 is in a second position, here a high extreme position.

[160] The lower stop member 36 is here still in contact with the sleeve 35.

[161] The sleeve 35 is now in its second position, and the second needle 51 of the holding mechanism 34 is housed in the third groove 48.

[162] However, it should be noted that the configuration of the sleeve 35 automatically allows it to switch into its second position, even if the lower stop member 36 is no longer in contact with the sleeve 35.

[163] The first needle 40 has completely left the second groove 45 and is in its second position, and acts on the switch 43.

[164] In the state shown in Figure 5, the activation and deactivation device 9 now activates the apparatus 3.

[165] Thus, the upper pressure threshold from which apparatus 3 is activated corresponds to 11 bar in the example shown.

[166] Figure 6 shows the activation and deactivation device 9 in yet another state in which the pressure of the fluid in the pressure chamber 23 has decreased relative to Figure 5, and is for example at 8 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[167] The control member 18 is in a third intermediate position between its high position and its low position.

[168] Neither the upper stop member 37 nor the lower stop member 36 are in contact with the sleeve 35.

[169] In particular, the upper stop member 37 has moved closer to the sleeve 35 whereas the lower stop member 36 has moved away from the sleeve 35.

[170] The second needle 51 of the holding mechanism 34 is still housed in the third groove 48 of the sleeve 35, which is in its second position, and the contact mechanism 32 is in its second position, with the first needle 40 which is in its second position, out of the second groove 45 at the bottom of the first groove 44 and acting on the switch 43.

[171] In the state shown in Figure 6, the holding mechanism 34 thus holds the sleeve 35 in its second position, which remains unchanged relative to that shown in Figure 5.

[172] In the state shown in Figure 6, the activation and deactivation device 9 still activates the apparatus 3 despite the pressure drop.

[173] Figure 7 shows the activation and deactivation device 9 in yet another state in which the pressure of the fluid in the pressure chamber 23 has further decreased relative to Figures 5 and 6, for example to 5 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[174] The upper stop member 37 has moved closer to and is in contact with the sleeve 35 and the lower stop member 36 has moved further away and is at a distance from the sleeve 35.

[175] The second needle 51 of the holding mechanism 34 is housed in the third groove 48 of the sleeve 35, which is in its second position, and the contact mechanism 32 is in its second position, with the first needle 40 which is in its second position out of the second groove 45 at the bottom of the first groove 44 and acting on the switch 43.

[176] In the state shown in Figure 7, the activation and deactivation device 9 thus still activates the apparatus 3, despite the new pressure drop.

[177] Figure 8 shows the activation and deactivation device 9 in yet another, so-called unstable, state, in which the pressure of the fluid in the pressure chamber 23 has further decreased relative to Figures 5 to 7, for example to 3 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[178] The lower stop member 36 has moved further away and remains at a distance from the sleeve 35, while the upper stop member 37 has moved even closer until it comes into contact with the sleeve 35, and pulls it.

[179] The sleeve 35, which starts to move downwards in Figure 8, moves the second needle 51 of the holding mechanism 34 in the radial opening 50 against the helical spring 53 and the movable pin 52 interposed between the helical spring 53 and the second needle 51, which is no longer housed in the third groove 48 of the sleeve 35, but which is located between the third groove 48 and the fourth groove 49.

[180] The sleeve 35 is between its first position and its second position, and the contact mechanism 32 is progressively returned to its first position, the first needle 40 being returned in the direction of the second groove 45 and away from the switch 43, which is however still acted upon by the contact mechanism 32 in this state.

[181] Thus, the activation and deactivation device 9 still activates the apparatus 3 in this state, despite the new pressure drop, but a change of state is in progress.

[182] Indeed, when the pressure of the fluid in the pressure chamber 23 decreases further, and reaches for example 2 bar relative to the atmosphere, the second needle 51 once again moves into the fourth groove 49 and the sleeve 35 switches into its first position. Consequently, the first needle 40 is returned to the bottom of the second groove 45 and no longer acts on the switch 43.

[183] The activation and deactivation device 9 is then substantially in the same state as that shown in Figure 2, and no longer activates the apparatus 3.

[184] Thus, the lower pressure threshold from which the apparatus 3 is deactivated corresponds to 2 bar in the example shown.

[185] The lower pressure threshold and the upper pressure threshold may be adjusted by adjusting the position of the upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36 respectively.

[186] This allows adjusting the difference between the lower and upper pressure thresholds.

[187] This may also be performed by calibrating the return spring 29, for example by means of the adjusting shims 30, which makes it possible to increase or decrease both the lower pressure threshold and the upper pressure threshold by the same value.

[188] In the illustrated example, adjustment may be performed by screwing more or less the pair of first nuts 38, respectively second nuts 39 on the end portion 21 which is threaded.

[189] According to the operation described above, the activation and deactivation device 9 makes it possible to activate the apparatus 3 according to a first pressure level, and to deactivate the apparatus 3 according to a second pressure level.

[190] Further embodiments of the activation and deactivation device 9 are described hereinafter.

[191] In the following description of embodiments, elements similar to or identical to those described in relation to the embodiment of Figures 2 to 8 bear the same reference numbers.

[192] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a first variant of the activation and deactivation device 9, only the actuation assembly 17 being shown in these figures, the drive assembly being similar or identical to the drive assembly 16 illustrated in Figures 2 to 8.

[193] In this first variant, the actuation assembly 17 comprises a contact mechanism 132 provided with a lever 135 having a first end which is secured to the body 11 at a first pivot point 131.

[194] The lever 135 is also secured to the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[195] The lever 135 is mounted both sliding and pivoting on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[196] In the illustrated example, the lever 135 comprises a transverse opening 136 which is oblong, and in which the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is inserted.

[197] The lever 135 comprises a contact member 137 which is configured to act on the switch 43 of the activation and deactivation member 31.

[198] In the illustrated example, the lever 135 comprises a threaded through opening 138 and the contact member 137 is formed by a screw which is inserted into the threaded through opening 138 so that the free end of the screw protrudes from the threaded through opening 138, and may act on the switch 43 when the lever 135 pivots.

[199] Furthermore, the actuation assembly 17 comprises a holding mechanism 134 which here comprises a hairpin-type torsion spring 153, comprising a first free end 154 and a second free end 155.

[200] The torsion spring 153 is secured by its second free end 155 to the body 11, at an attachment point 156.

[201] The lever 135 comprises a second end, opposite to the first end, and to which the first free end 154 of the torsion spring 153 is secured at a second pivot point 139.

[202] The actuation assembly 17 further comprises a return mechanism 33 which is herein similar to that described in the embodiment in relation to Figures 2 to 8.

[203] For example, the return mechanism 33 comprises an upper stop member 37 which may be formed by two nuts 38 arranged in a locknut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[204] Similarly, the lower stop member 36 may be formed by two nuts 39 arranged in a locknut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, on the side of the lever 135 which is proximal to the lower chamber 13.

[205] The operation of the activation and deactivation device 9 is as follows.

[206] In the state illustrated in Figure 9, the lever 135 is in a first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[207] The torsion spring 153 is in a first position, which is here a stable position of the device, which is here a first angular position relative to the body 11 to which it is secured.

[208] When the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, the lower stop member 36 comes to a stop with the lever 135, and acts against the torsion spring 153 which is in its first position and which the lever 135 holds in its first position.

[209] When the force exerted by the control member 18 is sufficient to overcome the force exerted by the torsion spring 153, i.e. herein when the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 reaches an upper pressure threshold, the torsion spring 153 yields and the lever 135 pivots towards its second position, which is herein a stable position of the device, in which it acts on the switch 43.

[210] The torsion spring 153 is then in a second position, which is here a second angular position relative to the body 11.

[211] This state of the activation and deactivation device 9 is illustrated in Figure 10.

[212] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the lower stop member 36 moves away and is at a distance from the lever 135, then the upper stop member 37 moves closer and comes into contact with the lever 135.

[213] The torsion spring 153 is still in its second position and it holds the lever 135 in its second position in which it acts on the switch 43.

[214] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 falls below a lower pressure threshold, the torsion spring 153 switches into its first position, and the lever 135 also switches into its first position, which is herein a stable position of the device, in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[215] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate a second variant of the activation and deactivation device 9, only the actuation assembly 17 being shown, the drive assembly being similar or identical to the drive assembly 16 illustrated in Figures 2 to 8.

[216] In this second variant, the actuation assembly 17 comprises a contact mechanism 232 similar to the contact mechanism 132 described above in relation to the first variant of the actuation assembly 17.

[217] The contact mechanism 232 comprises a lever 235, comprising a first end which is secured to the body 11 at a first pivot point 231.

[218] On the other hand, the lever 235 is secured to the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[219] The lever 235 is mounted both sliding and pivoting on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[220] In the illustrated example, the lever 235 comprises a transverse opening 236 which is oblong, and in which the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is inserted.

[221] The lever 235 comprises a contact member 237 which is configured to act on the switch 43 of the activation and deactivation member 31.

[222] In the illustrated example, the lever 235 comprises a threaded through opening 238 and the contact member 237 is formed by a screw which is inserted into the threaded through opening 238 so that the free end of the screw protrudes from the threaded through opening 238, and could act on the switch 43 of the activation and deactivation member 31 when the lever 235 pivots.

[223] Furthermore, the actuation assembly 17 comprises a holding mechanism 234 which here comprises a shoe 251 configured to be able to pivot relative to the body 11 about a third pivot point 250.

[224] The shoe 251 comprises a first friction surface 252 on one of its faces which is oriented towards the lever 235.

[225] The lever 235 comprises a second end, opposite to the first end, which comprises an end head 248, herein widened in the form of a hammer head with a curved front face in the illustrated example.

[226] The end head 248 comprises a second friction surface 249 on a front face of the lever 235, oriented towards the shoe 251.

[227] The lever 235 and the shoe 251 are configured to come into contact by their respective friction surfaces 249 and 252. Here, the lever 235 and the shoe 251 are arranged substantially orthogonal to each other.

[228] The holding mechanism 234 further comprises a compression spring 253, here of the helical spring type, engaged between the shoe 251 and the wall 12 of the body 11.

[229] The holding mechanism 234 may also comprise a connecting member 255 mechanically secured to the shoe 251, on the one hand, and bearing on the compression spring 253, on the other hand, and which allows adjustment of pre-stressing of the compression spring 253.

[230] For example, the connecting member 255 may comprise a threaded connecting rod 256 mechanically secured to the shoe 251, a pair of nuts 257 screwed onto the connecting rod 256, and a bearing washer 258 inserted on the connecting rod 256 and which rests on the one hand at a stop against the pair of nuts 257 and on the other hand against the compression spring 253.

[231] The actuation assembly 17 further comprises a return mechanism 33 which is herein similar to that described in the embodiment in relation to Figures 2 to 8.

[232] For example, the return mechanism 33 comprises an upper stop member 37 which may be formed by two nuts 38 arranged in a locknut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[233] Similarly, the lower stop member 36 may be formed by two nuts 39 arranged in a locknut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, on the side of the lever 235 which is proximal to the lower chamber 13.

[234] The operation of the activation and deactivation device 9 is as follows.

[235] In the state illustrated in Figure 11, the lever is in a first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[236] The shoe 251 is in a first position, which is herein a first angular position relative to the body 11 to which it is secured.

[237] When the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, the lower stop member 36 comes to a stop with the lever 235.

[238] The shoe 251 is held against the end head 248 of the lever 235 by the compression spring 253.

[239] When the force exerted by the control member 18 is sufficient to overcome the frictional force resulting from the force exerted by the compression spring 253 at the contact zone between the first friction surface 252 and the second friction surface 249, i.e. herein when the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 reaches an upper pressure threshold, the lever 235 pivots towards its second position in which it acts on the switch 43.

[240] The shoe 251 is then in a second position, which is here a second angular position relative to the body 11.

[241] This state of the activation and deactivation device 9 is illustrated in Figure 12. Because of the complementary shape of the first friction surface 252 and the second friction surface 249, which are here respectively concave and convex, the angular rotation of the shoe 251 between its first position and its second position is small, for example in the range of a few degrees.

[242] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the lower stop member 36 moves away and is at a distance from the lever 235, then the upper stop member 37 moves closer and comes into contact with the lever 235.

[243] The shoe 251 is still in its second position and holds the lever 235 in its second position in which it acts on the switch 43.

[244] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 falls below a lower pressure threshold, the force exerted by the control member 18 exceeds the frictional force at the contact zone between the first friction surface 252 and the second friction surface 249, the shoe 251 switches into its first position, and the lever 235 also switches into its first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[245] Figures 13 and 14 illustrate a third variant of the activation and deactivation device 9, only the actuation assembly 17 being shown, the drive assembly being similar or identical to the drive assembly 16 illustrated in Figures 2 to 8.

[246] In this third variant, the actuation assembly 17 comprises a contact mechanism 332 which comprises a lever 335, comprising a first end which is secured to the body 11 at a first pivot point 331.

[247] The lever 335 comprises a contact member 337 which is configured to act on the switch 43 of the activation and deactivation member 31.

[248] In the illustrated example, the lever 335 comprises a threaded through opening 338 and the contact member 337 is formed by a screw which is inserted into the threaded through opening 338 so that the free end of the screw protrudes from the threaded through opening 338, and may act on the switch 43 when the lever 335 pivots.

[249] The lever 335 is secured to the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[250] The end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is configured to come into contact with the lever 335 at an end bearing point 336 of the end portion 21, in particular when the control member 18 switches from its first position into its second position.

[251] The actuating rod 20 may comprise a cap 346 inserted or screwed onto the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, and which comprises the end bearing point 336 and which here forms a lower stop member.

[252] When the cap 346 is screwed onto the end portion 21, the stop member thus formed is adjustable in position.

[253] Furthermore, the actuation assembly 17 comprises a holding mechanism 334 which here comprises a ratchet 351 configured to be capable of pivoting relative to the body 11 about a third pivot point 350.

[254] The ratchet 351 comprises a tooth 352 which is oriented towards the lever 335.

[255] The lever 335 comprises a second end, opposite to the first end, which comprises a nose 348, oriented towards the ratchet 351.

[256] The tooth 352 of the ratchet 351 is configured to retain the nose 348 when the latter rests on the tooth 352.

[257] Here, the lever 335 and the ratchet 351 are arranged substantially orthogonal to each other.

[258] The holding mechanism 334 further comprises a compression spring 353, here of the hairpin spring type, engaged between the ratchet 351 and the wall 12 of the body 11.

[259] The actuation assembly 17 further comprises a return mechanism 333 which here comprises a return lever 340 capable of pivoting relative to the body 11.

[260] The return lever 340 comprises a first end whereby it is secured in rotation to the body 11, at a fourth pivot point 341.

[261] The return lever 340 is mounted both sliding and pivoting on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[262] In the illustrated example, the return lever 340 comprises a transverse opening which is oblong, and in which the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is inserted.

[263] Furthermore, the return mechanism 333 comprises an upper stop member 339 which may be formed by two nuts 330 arranged in a locknut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, and which may come into contact with the return lever 340.

[264] The upper stop member 339 is here arranged between the end bearing point 336 and the return lever 340.

[265] The return mechanism 333 further comprises a connecting part 342 mechanically connecting the lever 335 and the return lever 340.

[266] The connecting part 342 is connected in rotation to the second end of the lever 335, at a fifth pivot point 343, and connected in rotation to a second end of the return lever 340, opposite to the first end, at a sixth pivot point 344.

[267] The connecting part 342 here comprises a tension spring extending between the fifth pivot point 343 and the sixth pivot point 344.

[268] Furthermore, the ratchet 351 has a contact surface 354, oriented towards the lever 335, and the return lever 340 may comprise, at its second end, a rounded head 345 which may also be a roller or a bearing, and which is configured so as to be capable of coming into contact with the contact surface 354, in particular when the control member 18 switches from its second position to its first position.

[269] The rounded head may for example be formed by a roller or a bearing.

[270] The operation of the activation and deactivation device 9 is as follows.

[271] In the state illustrated in Figure 13, the lever 335 is in a first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[272] The ratchet 351 is in a first position, which is herein a first angular position relative to the body 11 to which it is secured.

[273] When the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, the cap 346 moves closer to and comes to a stop with the lever 335 by the end bearing point 336.

[274] The lever 335 is moved towards its second position, and moves the ratchet 351 in rotation by acting against the compression spring 353.

[275] When the force exerted by the control member 18 is sufficient to overcome the force exerted by the compression spring 353, i.e. herein when the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 reaches an upper pressure threshold, the nose 348 passes over the tooth 352 and the ratchet 351 holds the lever 335 in its second position in which it acts on the switch 43.

[276] The ratchet 351 is then in a second position, which is herein a second angular position relative to the body 11.

[277] This state of the activation and deactivation device 9 is illustrated in Figure 14. Here, the angular rotation of the ratchet 351 between its first position and its second position is small, for example in the range of a few degrees.

[278] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the cap 346 moves away and is at a distance from the lever 335, then the upper stop member 339 moves closer and comes into contact with the return lever 340.

[279] The ratchet 351 is still in its second position and holds the lever 335 in its second position in which it acts on the switch 43.

[280] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 falls below a lower pressure threshold, the return lever 340, which is driven in rotation by the upper stop member 339 thanks to the connecting part 342 which comprises a spring which allows a relative movement between the return lever 340 and the lever 335, comes into contact with the ratchet 351 by contact of the rounded head 345 with the contact surface 354 and thus lifts the locking of the nose 348 by the tooth 352, and pulls the connecting part 342, which in turn pulls the released lever 335, the latter then progressively switching from its second position into its first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[281] It should be noted that the return lever 340 is driven in rotation by the upper stop member 339, thanks to the spring of the connecting part 342 which allows a relative movement between the return lever 340 and the lever 335

[282] Figures 15 and 16 illustrate a fourth variant of the activation and deactivation device 9, only the actuation assembly 17 being shown, the drive assembly being similar or identical to the drive assembly 16 illustrated in Figures 2 to 8.

[283] In this fourth variant, the actuation assembly 17 comprises a contact mechanism 432 which comprises a sleeve 435, similarly to the embodiment described in relation to Figures 2 to 8.

[284] The sleeve 435 is arranged on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, and is here movable in translation on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[285] The sleeve 435 comprises a lateral arm 438 extending transversely from the sleeve 435. The lateral arm 438 is provided with a threaded opening, and the contact mechanism 432 comprises a contact member 437 which is here formed by a screw inserted into the threaded opening of the lateral arm 438.

[286] The contact member 437, and here in particular a free end of the screw protruding from the threaded opening in the lateral arm 438, is configured to come into contact with the switch 43 of the activation and deactivation member 31.

[287] The end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 comprises a lower stop member 436 which is here formed by a shoulder comprised by the actuating rod 20.

[288] The lower stop member 436 allows moving the sleeve 435 with the control member 18 when the sleeve 435 is at a stop with the lower stop member 436, in particular when the control member 18 is in a first position, when it is moved in the direction of the upper chamber 14 under the effect of an increasing pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23.

[289] The actuation assembly 17 comprises a return mechanism 433 which here comprises an upper stop member 439, for example formed by a nut screwed onto the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 which is here threaded.

[290] The return mechanism 433 here further comprises a return spring 430 arranged on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 between the upper stop member 439 and the sleeve 435.

[291] Optionally, the return mechanism 433 may also comprise a spacer (not shown) arranged on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 between the upper stop member 439 and the sleeve 435, and with which the upper stop member 439 is configured to come into contact.

[292] The actuation assembly 17 also comprises a holding mechanism 434 which here comprises a hairpin-type torsion spring 453, comprising a first free end and a second free end.

[293] The torsion spring 453 is secured in rotation by its second free end to the body 11, at an attachment point 454.

[294] The torsion spring 453 comprises at its first end a roller 440, which may also be a ball or a needle.

[295] The sleeve 435 comprises a first groove 445, in which the roller 440 may be housed at least partially.

[296] The operation of the activation and deactivation device 9 is as follows.

[297] In the state illustrated in Figure 15, the sleeve 435 is in a first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[298] The torsion spring 453 is in a first position, in which the roller 440 is out of the first groove 445, bearing against the sleeve 435.

[299] When the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, the lower stop member 436 comes to a stop with the sleeve 435, and the sleeve 435 is moved to its second position.

[300] When the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 reaches an upper pressure threshold, the roller 440 is housed in the first groove 445, in which it is held under the effect of the torsion spring 453, and the holding mechanism 434, which is in a second position, holds the sleeve 435 in its second position in which it acts on the switch 43.

[301] This state of the activation and deactivation device 9 is illustrated in Figure 16.

[302] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the lower stop member 436 and the sleeve 435 are moved away and therefore at a distance from each other.

[303] The upper stop member 339 moves towards the sleeve 435 which is held in its second position in which it acts on the switch 43, and the return spring 430 is compressed.

[304] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 falls below a lower pressure threshold, the force exerted by the return spring 430 which is compressed exceeds the force exerted by the torsion spring 453, and the roller 440 is moved out of the first groove 445 and the sleeve 435 moves from its second position to its first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[305] Figures 17 to 18 illustrate a fifth embodiment of the activation and deactivation device 9.

[306] In this fifth variant, the drive assembly 16 is similar to that illustrated in Figures 2 to 8.

[307] Thus, the drive assembly 16 comprises a control member 18 arranged movable in the lower chamber 13, and which may be moved under the effect of the pressure agent travelling in the fluid routing network.

[308] The control member 18 comprises a piston head 19 arranged movable in the lower chamber 13, and an actuating rod 20 extending from the piston head 19 into the lower chamber 13 and which is oriented towards the upper chamber 14.

[309] The actuating rod 20 comprises an end portion 21 which extends out of the lower chamber 13, and here extends into the upper chamber 14 through the opening 15.

[310] The body 11 may comprise a cover 22 which makes it possible to close the lower chamber 13.

[311] On the side of the piston head 19 opposite to the actuating rod 20, the piston head 19 defines with the wall 12 of the body 11 as well as with the cover 22, a pressure chamber 23 in the lower chamber 13.

[312] The drive assembly 16 may comprise a sheath 55 arranged in the opening 15, extending inside the lower chamber 13 and in which the actuating rod 20 can slide.

[313] The drive assembly 16 may also comprise a membrane clamp 26 inserted into the lower chamber 13 and defining a shoulder for the piston head 19 of the control member 18, i.e. the membrane clamp 26 defines a maximum travel of the control member 18.

[314] Moreover, the drive assembly 16 may comprise a membrane 27, the periphery of which may be engaged between the membrane clamp 26 and the cover 22 closing the lower chamber 13, which makes it possible to ensure tightness of the pressure chamber 23.

[315] In other words, the pressure chamber 23 is here delimited by the cover 22 and the membrane 27, which is flexible and deformable and which follows the movement of the control member 18.

[316] The cover 22 comprises a filling opening 28, to which the supply pipe may be connected, which allows the connection of the pressure chamber 23 to the fluid routing network, and thus its supply by the latter.

[317] Furthermore, the drive assembly 16 comprises a return spring 29 disposed in the lower chamber 13, between the piston head 19 of the control member 18 and the wall 12 of the body 11.

[318] The drive assembly 16 may also comprise an adjusting shim 30, which may be disposed in the lower chamber 13 between the wall 12 of the body 11 and the return spring 29 bearing on the adjusting shim 30.

[319] Here, the adjusting shim 30 may comprise a threaded central opening, and the sheath 55 may comprise an outer thread, so that the adjusting shim 30 could be screwed onto the sheath 55, and so that pre-stressing of the return spring 29 could be adjusted by screwing and unscrewing the adjusting shim 30.

[320] The return spring 29 has the effect of returning the control member 18 against the pressurised pressure agent acting on the control member 18 and which tends to move it in the direction of the upper chamber 14.

[321] The activation and deactivation device 9 comprises an activation and deactivation member 31 which is connected at the output to the apparatus.

[322] The actuation assembly 17 is configured to act on the activation and deactivation member 31, and comprises a contact mechanism 532 configured to act on the activation and deactivation member 31, and a return mechanism 533 configured to move the contact mechanism 532 under the effect of the control member 18.

[323] The contact mechanism 532 comprises a lever 535, comprising a first end which is secured to the body 11 at a first pivot point 531.

[324] The lever 535 comprises a contact member 537 which is configured to act on the switch 43 of the activation and deactivation member 31.

[325] In the illustrated example, the lever 535 comprises a threaded through opening 538 and the contact member 537 is formed by a bolt which is inserted into the threaded through opening 538 so that the head of the bolt may act on the switch 43 when the lever 535 pivots.

[326] The end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is configured to come into contact with the lever 535 at an end bearing point 536 of the end portion 21, in particular when the control member 18 switches from its first position into its second position.

[327] The actuating rod 20 may comprise an axial threaded opening and a lower stop member formed by a lower stop screw 539 inserted into the axial threaded opening. The head of the lower stop screw 539 herein comprises the end bearing point 536 and is configured to come into contact with the lever 535. The actuating rod 20 may also comprise a nut inserted on the lower stop screw 539, and which makes it possible to adjust the position of the lower stop with the lever 535.

[328] Furthermore, the lever 535 comprises at a second end, opposite to the first end, a nose 546.

[329] The actuation assembly 17 further comprises a return mechanism 533 which here comprises a return spring 540, which here is a torsion spring.

[330] The return spring 540 comprises a first end whereby it is secured to the body 11, and a second end which bears against the lever 535.

[331] The actuation assembly 17 may further comprise an upper stop member 541, which may be formed by a stud protruding from the wall 12 of the body 11 into the upper chamber 14.

[332] The actuation assembly 17 also comprises a holding mechanism 534 configured to hold the contact mechanism 532 in a position in which it acts on the activation and deactivation member 31, which is herein a position in which the apparatus is activated.

[333] The holding mechanism 534 comprises a holding piston 547 which is configured to hold the lever 535 in its second position.

[334] The holding mechanism 534 comprises a secondary cavity 548 in which the holding piston 547 is housed, and a secondary pressure chamber 549 delimited by the holding piston 547 and the secondary cavity 548.

[335] The secondary cavity 548 may be formed directly in the wall 12 of the body 11, or be formed by a wall mounted and secured to the body 11.

[336] The holding mechanism 534 also comprises a secondary fluid circulation network comprising a secondary pipe 550 in which the pressure agent can flow.

[337] The secondary pipe 550 fluidically connects the pressure chamber 23, herein by means of a branch in the filling opening 28, and the secondary pressure chamber 549.

[338] For example, the secondary pipe 550 is formed directly in the wall 12 of the body 11.

[339] The holding piston 547 comprises a holding piston head 551 and a holding piston rod 552 secured to each other.

[340] The secondary pressure chamber 549 comprises an opening in the wall 12 of the body 11, and through which the holding piston rod 552 opens into the upper chamber 14, facing the nose 546 of the lever 535.

[341] The holding piston 547 also comprises a secondary return spring 553 arranged around the holding piston rod 552 between the holding piston head 551 and a wall of the secondary cavity 548.

[342] The holding piston 547 may comprise one or more secondary adjusting shims 554 arranged between the secondary return spring 553 and the secondary cavity 548, and which make it possible to adjust the stress of the secondary return spring 553.

[343] The operation of the activation and deactivation device 9 is as follows.

[344] In the state illustrated in Figure 17, the lever 535 is in a first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[345] The holding piston rod 552 is in a first position, in which it does not open into the upper chamber 14.

[346] Under the effect of an increasing pressure in the pressure chamber 23, and therefore also in the secondary pressure chamber 549, the holding piston rod 552 is moved out of the secondary cavity 548, until it comes to a stop against the nose 546 of the lever 535.

[347] Here, the control member 18 and the holding piston 547 are dimensioned such that the holding piston rod 552 first moves from its first position to a second position, before the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, when the pressure in the pressure chamber 23 increases.

[348] In particular, the holding piston rod 552 moves when the pressure in the pressure chamber 23 and therefore in the secondary pressure chamber 549 reaches a lower pressure threshold.

[349] When the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 reaches an upper pressure threshold, the lower stop member, which is herein formed by the lower stop screw 539, moves the lever 535 from its first position to its second position in which it acts on the switch 43.

[350] The holding piston rod 552 then passes under the nose 546 of the lever 535, and is in a second position in which it holds the lever 535 in its second position.

[351] This state of the activation and deactivation device 9 is illustrated in Figure 18.

[352] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the lower stop member which is here formed by the lower stop screw 539 moves away and is located at a distance from the lever 535.

[353] The return spring 540 exerts a return force on the lever 535, but the latter is held in its second position by the holding piston rod 552.

[354] When the pressure of the pressure agent in the pressure chamber 23 falls below a lower pressure threshold, the holding piston rod 552 moves from its second position to its first position, and thus releases the nose 546 and therefore the lever 535 which moves from its second position to its first position in which it does not act on the switch 43.

[355] Non-illustrated variants are described below.

[356] The activation and deactivation device may be configured to engage or disengage the apparatus according to more than two pressure thresholds, for example, according to three or four pressure thresholds. To this end, for example, the sleeve described in the embodiment of Figures 2 to 8 may comprise three or four grooves in which the second needle may be housed, and the activation and deactivation device may comprise two or three activation and deactivation members for example arranged in separate radial planes.

[357] The activation and deactivation member may be different from an electrical “switch” type device, and may for example be a mechanical, or fluidic, activation and deactivation member.

[358] The operation of the activation and deactivation device may be inverted, i.e. the activation and deactivation member is deactivated when the control member switches from its first position into its second position, and activated when the control member switches from its second position into its first position.

[359] In all embodiments and variants, the springs whether helical, torsional or pin type may be replaced with different springs performing the same function, in a similar arrangement.

[360] The body of the activation and deactivation device may be of a shape different from that one shown, and the lower chamber and the upper chamber may be arranged differently relative to each other, in particular side-by-side or on top of one another but the opposite of the configuration shown in the figures

[361] The activation and deactivation member comprises more than one contactor or switch.

[362] More generally, the invention is not limited to the examples described and represented.

Claims

1. Railway installation (1) comprising a fluid routing network (2), at least one apparatus (3) connected to the fluid routing network (2) and configured to be activated or deactivated according to an upper fluid pressure threshold and a lower fluid pressure threshold, and a device (9) for activating and deactivating said at least one apparatus (3), connected, at the input, to the fluid routing network (2) and, at the output, to the at least one apparatus (3); the activation and deactivation device (9) comprising:- an activation and deactivation member (31) connected to the at least one apparatus;- a body (11) comprising a lower chamber (13);- a control member (18) arranged movable in the lower chamber (13) and delimiting with the body (11) a pressure chamber (23) connected to the fluid routing network (2), the control member (18) further having an actuating rod (20) comprising an end portion (21) extending out of the lower chamber (13), the control member (18) being configured to be moved in the lower chamber (13) under the effect of the pressurised fluid between a first position of the control member in which the activation and deactivation member (31) is deactivated, respectively activated, and a second position of the control member in which the activation and deactivation member (31) is activated, respectively deactivated;- a contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) configured to be moved by the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) between a first position in which the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) disengages, respectively engages, the activation and deactivation member (31), and a second position in which the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) engages, respectively disengages, the activation and deactivation member (31);the activation and deactivation device (9) being configured to allow:- a first configuration, when the pressurised fluid is below the lower fluid pressure threshold or below the upper fluid pressure threshold, in which the control member (18) and the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) are in their respective first position or between their first position and their respective second position;- a second configuration, when the fluid under pressure reaches the upper fluid pressure threshold, in which the control member (18) and the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) are in their respective second position;characterised in that the activation and deactivation device (9) further comprises a holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434; 534) configured to hold the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) in its second position, and a return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533) configured to move the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) from its second position in which it is held, to its first position;and in that the activation and deactivation device (9) is configured to allow a third configuration, when the pressurised fluid is below the upper fluid pressure threshold and above an intermediate fluid pressure threshold which is higher than the lower fluid pressure threshold, third configuration in which the control member (18) is in an intermediate position between its first position and its second position, and the holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434; 534) holds, against the return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533), the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) in its second position.

2. Railway installation (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) is mechanically secured to the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) and mounted at least partially sliding on the end portion (21) and / or pivoting relative to the end portion (21).

3. Railway installation (1) according to claim 2, characterised in that the return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533) comprises an upper stop member (37; 339; 439; 541) arranged on the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) and which is configured to drive by contact, directly or indirectly, the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) from its second position to its first position.

4. Railway installation (1) according to claim 3, characterised in that the upper stop member (37; 439; 541) is configured to bear directly on the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 432; 532) to drive it from its second position to its first position.

5. Railway installation (1) according to claim 3, characterised in that the return mechanism (333; 433) further comprises at least one intermediate part on which the upper stop member (339; 439) acts to drive by contact the contact mechanism (332; 432) from its second position to its first position.

6. Railway installation according to claim 5, characterised in that the intermediate part is formed by a return spring (430) and / or by a spacer and / or by a return lever (340).

7. Railway installation (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterised in that the contact mechanism (32; 432) comprises a sleeve (35; 435) movable in translation on the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20).

8. Railway installation (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterised in that the contact mechanism (132; 232; 332) comprises a lever (135; 235; 335) movable in rotation relative to the body (11) and which is secured in translation and rotation on the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20).

9. Railway installation (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterised in that the activation and deactivation device (9) comprises a lower stop member (36; 436) arranged on the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20), and which is configured to drive by contact the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) from its first position to its second position.

10. Railway installation (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434) comprises at least one elastic element configured to exert an elastic holding force directly or indirectly on the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432), so that the elastic element holds the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432) in its second position in the second configuration and in the third configuration of the activation and deactivation device.

11. Railway installation (1) according to claim 10, characterised in that the holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434) further comprises a holding part which is acted upon by the at least one elastic element and in that the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432) comprises a complementary holding member configured to cooperate with the holding part of the holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434) in the second configuration and in the third configuration of the activation and deactivation device.

12. Railway installation (1) according to one of claims 10 and 11, characterised in that the at least one elastic element is configured to allow a first stable position in which it acts on the contact mechanism (132) which is at a distance from its second position and a second stable position in which it acts on the contact mechanism (132) which is in its second position, the at least one elastic element further allowing a switching position for switching from one to the other of its first stable position and its second stable position via an external action.

13. Railway installation (1) according to claim 10, characterised in that the contact mechanism (232) comprises an end head (248) and the holding mechanism (234) comprises a shoe (251) arranged between the at least one elastic element and the end head (248) of the contact mechanism (232), with the shoe (251) and the end head (248) which are configured to cooperate, by friction and / or by a stop, so as to hold the contact mechanism (242) in its second position in the second configuration and in the third configuration of the activation and deactivation device.

14. Railway installation (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the body of the activation and deactivation device comprises a secondary cavity (548) and the holding mechanism (534) is formed by a holding piston (547) arranged movable in the secondary cavity (548) and delimiting with the body (11) a secondary pressure chamber (549) connected to the fluid routing network (2), the holding piston (547) being provided with a holding piston rod (552) which is configured on the one hand to form a stop in position when the contact mechanism (542) is in its second position and on the other hand to move asidewhen the pressurised fluid has a pressure value lower than the intermediate threshold.

15. Railway vehicle comprising a railway installation (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. Device (9) for activating and deactivating at least one apparatus (3), configured to be connected, at the input, to a fluid routing network (2) and, at the output, to the at least one apparatus (3); the activation and deactivation device (9) comprising:- an activation and deactivation member (31) connected to the at least one apparatus;- a body (11) comprising a lower chamber (13);- a control member (18) arranged movable in the lower chamber (13) and delimiting with the body (11) a pressure chamber (23) connected to the fluid routing network (2), the control member (18) further having an actuating rod (20) comprising an end portion (21) extending out of the lower chamber (13), the control member (18) being configured to be moved in the lower chamber (13) under the effect of the pressurised fluid between a first position of the control member in which the activation and deactivation member (31) is deactivated, respectively activated, and a second position of the control member in which the activation and deactivation member (31) is activated, respectively deactivated;- a contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) configured to be moved by the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) between a first position in which the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) disengages, respectively engages, the activation and deactivation member (31), and a second position in which the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) engages, respectively disengages, the activation and deactivation member (31);the activation and deactivation device (9) being configured to allow:- a first configuration, when the pressurised fluid is below the lower fluid pressure threshold or below the upper fluid pressure threshold, in which the control member (18) and the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) are in their respective first position or between their first position and their respectivesecond position;- a second configuration, when the fluid under pressure reaches the upper fluid pressure threshold, in which the control member (18) and the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) are in their respective second position;characterised in that the activation and deactivation device (9) further comprises a holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434; 534) configured to hold the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) in its second position, and a return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533) configured to move the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) from its second position in which it is held, to its first position;and in that the activation and deactivation device (9) is configured to allow a third configuration, when the pressurised fluid is below the upper fluid pressure threshold and above an intermediate fluid pressure threshold which is higher than the lower fluid pressure threshold, third configuration in which the control member (18) is in an intermediate position between its first position and its second position, and the holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434; 534) holds, against the return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533), the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) in its second position.

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