SISTEMA DE GUILHOTINA, EM PARTICULAR PARA UM DISPOSITIVO DE REABASTECIMENTO EM VOO

Abstract

The invention relates to a guillotine system (114), in particular for an in-flight refueling device (100), comprising - a passage (124) through which a pipe (102) is able to pass, - a blade (126) movable between a first position in which the pipe (102) is able to slide freely through the passage (124), and a second position in which the blade (126) is able to cut the pipe (102), the guillotine system (114) further comprising an actuator (128) of the non-pyrotechnic type configured to contain and / or generate a pressurized fluid released to move the blade (126) from the first position to the second position.

Description

1 / 20 Guillotine system, in particular for an in-flight refueling device. FIELD OF THE INVENTION'S TECHNIQUE

[0001] The present invention relates to the general field of aeronautics. It relates, more particularly, to a guillotine system, in particular to an in-flight refueling device for an aircraft, as well as to an aircraft that includes an in-flight refueling device. BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNIQUE

[0002] The background of the technique comprises documents no. US-A12014 / 346279, WO-A1-02 / 24529, US-A1-2002 / 074455, US-A1-2019 / 257710 and EPA1-4032809.

[0003] During a flight, an aircraft is known to be refueled by transferring at least one fluid, such as fuel, to it.

[0004] This is the case, for example, when an aircraft cannot or should not land in an area over which it is flying. The aircraft must then be refueled in flight. This is what happens, in particular, when the volume of fuel on board reaches a lower limit value.

[0005] During this refueling, as shown schematically in Figure 1, a first aircraft 14, also called tanker aircraft 14 or refueling aircraft 14, is equipped with an in-flight refueling device to which a second aircraft 22, also called receiver 22 or refueling aircraft 22, is connected.

[0006] The in-flight refueling device comprises a pipe 10 configured to transfer fluid, unrolled from the first aircraft to the second aircraft, which is located downstream of the first aircraft, in the direction of flight, and which is to be refueled.

[0007] The barrel 10 can be uncoiled or deployed from a downstream end of a fuselage 12 of the refueling aircraft 14, as shown in Figure 1, or from a wing of the refueling aircraft 14.

[0008] Alternatively, the barrel 10 can be deployed from a Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 12 / 46 2 / 20 transporter, also called nacelle, installed at the ventral point of an aircraft, in particular a combat aircraft, or of a transporter installed under the wing of an aircraft, in particular a refueling aircraft or a combat aircraft.

[0009] The pipe 10, suitable for transferring fluid, comprises a first end 10a, connected to a fluid source 16, which comprises, for example, a reservoir and a pump, and a second end 10b, opposite the first end 10a, which comprises a first connector 18.

[0010] The first connector 18 is configured to provide a fluidic connection with a second connector 20, which may cooperate in a complementary manner. The second connector 20 is carried, in particular by a boom, from the aircraft to be refueled 22. This type of connection is well known to those skilled in the art.

[0011] The first connector 18 comprises, for example, a pressure limiting member 24 and a frustoconical basket 26. For this purpose, the connector 18 may comprise a valve that allows adjusting the pressure at the outlet of the first connector 18 to the prevailing limit in the medium.

[0012] The frustoconical basket 26 helps to center and guide the second connector 20 within the first connector 18. To this end, the second connector 20 has a pointed shape that cooperates with the pressure-limiting member 24 of the first connector 18.

[0013] The frustoconical basket 26 is also shaped to facilitate the centering of the first connector 18 in the airflow. The pipe 10 is unrolled by means of a pipe deployment system 10 located inside the refueling aircraft 14 or inside the refueling aircraft carrier 14.

[0014] When the refueling aircraft 14 takes off, the pipe 10 is rolled up. During a refueling operation, the unrolling of the pipe 10 is controlled so as to unroll a sufficient length of pipe 10, for example, over several tens of meters, in particular a length between 15 meters and 30 meters, so that the first connector 18 approaches the Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 13 / 46 3 / 20 second aircraft 22 and may be connected to the second connector 20 of the second aircraft 22.

[0015] Pipe 10 is relatively flexible and will likely move and shift as it is unrolled and subjected to disturbances downstream of the first aircraft 14 or turbulence.

[0016] If the movements of cannon 10 are too large and uncontrolled, it may come into contact with refueling aircraft 14 and / or the second aircraft 22.

[0017] Furthermore, when pipe 10 movements occur when the second connector 20 of the second aircraft 22 is connected to the first connector 18 of the refueling aircraft 14, it is necessary for the second aircraft 22 to clear the area subject to disturbances downstream of the first aircraft 14 or to turbulence. As a last resort, it may be possible to cut pipe 10 if it cannot be rewound.

[0018] Additionally, after refueling, there is a risk that the first connector 18 of the refueling aircraft 14 and the second connector 20 of the second aircraft 22 will not disconnect. In this case, the second connector 20 acts as a mechanical fuse.

[0019] Finally, there is also the risk of the tube implantation system jamming, making it impossible to rewind the tube once it has been implanted.

[0020] In these cases, it is necessary to cut the pipe to release the uncoiled part of the pipe and prevent it from creating a risk to the refueling aircraft and / or the aircraft to be refueled. For example, the pilot of the refueling aircraft may decide to cut the pipe before landing the refueling aircraft 14.

[0021] It is known to associate with the barrel a guillotine system comprising a passage through which the barrel passes and a movable blade between a first position, in which the barrel can slide freely through the passage, and a second position, in which the blade cuts the barrel in order to separate it in two. Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 14 / 46 4 / 20

[0022] Such a guillotine system comprises an actuator configured to be activated by a control circuit located, generally, in the cockpit of the refueling aircraft. When the pilot of the refueling aircraft activates the control circuit, a signal is sent to the actuator which triggers a movement of the blade from the first position to the second position.

[0023] In the present technique, the actuator is of the pyrotechnic type, that is, it comprises an explosive charge and a detonator that ignites the explosive charge when it receives the aforementioned signal. The ignition of the charge releases a high level of pressure that moves the blade to cut the barrel.

[0024] The advantage of this solution is that the pipe can be cut at any point along its length. In addition, this allows the guillotine system to have good reactivity on the order of a few milliseconds after signal remission.

[0025] However, this technology, described, for example, in document no. FRA-1 590 598, has its disadvantages.

[0026] The first disadvantage is that the explosive charge is subject to strict regulations requiring it to be disarmed daily. Human intervention is required to disarm and reset the actuator every day, which can lead to operational errors such as incorrect connections or forgotten connections, like connecting an electrical harness.

[0027] Another disadvantage is the obsolescence of this type of actuator, which must be replaced regularly due to its relatively short lifespan. Furthermore, the use of this type of actuator may be questioned by new regulations, such as REACH, which aims to ensure the safe manufacture and use of chemicals in European industry.

[0028] Another disadvantage is that it is not possible to monitor the state of such an actuator after it has been installed on a refueling aircraft. An alternative to cutting the barrel is to abandon the entire barrel instead of just a cut portion. To achieve this, the barrel deployment system comprises an electromechanical barrel release system. However, this is also not a Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 15 / 46 5 / 20 is the ideal alternative, since the pipe needs to be fully unrolled to be released, and the pipe deployment system can jam even when the pipe is not fully unrolled.

[0029] The objective of the present invention is to provide a solution to at least some of the problems of the prior art that is simple, effective and economical. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0030] The invention relates to a guillotine system, in particular for an in-flight refueling device, comprising - a passage through which a pipe can pass, - a movable blade between ° a first position, in which the barrel has the ability to slide freely through the passage, and ° a second position, in which the blade has the ability to cut the barrel, in particular to separate it in two, and - an actuator, in particular one that can be activated by a control circuit, configured to move the blade from the first position to the second position.

[0031] In particular, the actuator is of the non-pyrotechnic type. The actuator, therefore, is not subject to the restrictions and disadvantages of the prior art.

[0032] In addition, the actuator is configured to contain and / or generate a pressurized fluid released to move the blade from the first position to the second position.

[0033] The present invention offers several non-pyrotechnic solutions for the actuator.

[0034] In the present application, a non-pyrotechnic actuator should be understood as a non-explosive or spark-free actuator, that is, one that does not generate an explosion or spark during its use.

[0035] In a first aspect, the actuator comprises a cartridge adapted to contain a volume of pressurized gas. This pressurized gas is configured to be released, in particular after activation by the control circuit, of Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 16 / 46 6 / 20 mode to ensure blade movement from the first position to the second position.

[0036] The invention thus proposes replacing the pyrotechnic guillotine system of the prior art with a pneumatic guillotine system.

[0037] The invention solves at least some of the disadvantages described above. First, the cartridge containing the pressurized gas is not subject to strict regulation and does not need to be disarmed. Therefore, it requires less or no human intervention. The cartridge containing the pressurized gas has a longer service life than an explosive charge. This cartridge can also be instrumented to monitor its state over time, which was not possible in the prior art.

[0038] According to a second aspect of the invention, the actuator comprises an accumulator, adapted to contain a volume of pressurized liquid. This pressurized liquid is configured to be released so as to move the blade from the first position to the second position.

[0039] The invention thus proposes to replace the pyrotechnic guillotine system of the prior art with a hydraulic or hydromechanical guillotine system.

[0040] The invention solves at least some of the disadvantages described above. First, the accumulator containing the pressurized liquid is not subject to strict regulation and does not need to be disarmed. Therefore, it requires less or no human intervention. The accumulator containing the pressurized liquid has a longer service life than an explosive charge. Furthermore, this accumulator can be instrumented to monitor its state over time, which was not possible in the prior art.

[0041] According to a third aspect of the invention, the actuator comprises a container that has the capacity to hold chemical reagents, in particular separated from each other and that have the capacity to be mixed and / or brought into contact to generate a pressurized gas. This pressurized gas is then released to move the blade from the first position to the second position. Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 17 / 46 7 / 20

[0042] The invention thus proposes to replace the pyrotechnic guillotine system of the prior art with a chemical reaction guillotine system. The invention makes it possible to solve at least some of the disadvantages described above. Firstly, the container holding the chemical reagents is not subject to strict regulations and does not need to be disarmed. Therefore, it requires less or no human intervention. The container holding the chemical reagents has a longer service life than an explosive charge. This container can also be instrumented to monitor its state over time, which was not possible in the prior art.

[0043] In general, the invention can provide a gain in actuator response time. The gas, liquid or reagents can be released in a reaction time on the order of one millisecond, for example.

[0044] The guillotine system according to the invention may also have one or more of the following features, considered individually or in combination with each other: - Pressurized gas is air and / or an inert gas; - The cartridge comprises a closed casing, adapted to contain the pressurized gas, and a port, adapted to allow the passage of the pressurized gas; - The actuator comprises, in addition to the pressurized gas, a fuel; this fuel has the ability to burn to further increase the gas pressure and thus improve the actuator's performance; - the fuel is associated with an ignition or activation system, preferably connected to said control circuit; - the accumulator comprises a first internal cavity, with the capacity to contain the pressurized liquid, and a second internal cavity, with the capacity to contain pressurized gas and / or a return elastic element, such as a spring, in particular, the first internal cavity and the second internal cavity separated from each other by a membrane, in particular, movable and / or Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 18 / 46 8 / 20 deformable; - the first internal cavity comprises an outlet port adapted to allow the passage of liquid to move the blade and an inlet port adapted to allow the passage of liquid to charge and / or recharge the accumulator with liquid; - The inlet port is connected to a source of pressurized liquid, in particular, a hydraulic pump, specifically one that is manually operated; - The actuator comprises a suitable container for holding chemical reagents, in particular, separated from each other and suitable for being mixed and / or brought into contact to generate a pressurized gas and ensure movement of the blade from the first position to the second position; - The chemical reagents are in a solid state, in particular, one of the chemical reagents is in a powdered state; - each door is equipped with a valve; The system also includes a monitoring unit, adapted to allow monitoring of the actuator's state. - the monitoring unit comprises at least one sensor and / or is connected to at least one sensor, wherein the sensor is, for example, a pressure sensor; - The guillotine system comprises a body that defines the passage; - The guillotine system comprises a chamber connected directly or via a pressurized gas conduit to the actuator; - The blade is carried by a support, in particular a piston, which has the ability to move in the chamber after power is supplied to the chamber by the actuator, where the movement of the support in the chamber causes the blade to move from the first position to the second position; - the guillotine system also includes a status sensor of Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 19 / 46 9 / 20 cut, which has the ability to confirm that the pipe has been cut; this sensor allows the aircraft pilot to confirm that the pipe has been cut correctly; in fact, when the pipe is cut, the aircraft has to decelerate (as happens during the refueling phase); once the correct cut state is indicated, the aircraft can accelerate; currently, this confirmation requires a second device, which must visually confirm that the pipe has been cut correctly; - The cutoff status sensor is connected to the monitoring unit; - The monitoring unit comprises a computer that has the ability to issue an alarm in case of actuator failure and, in particular, of anomalies in the gas, pressurized liquid or reagents, or even has the ability to receive signals from the cut-off status sensor; The monitoring unit and / or the cut-off sensor have the ability to send an alarm to the pilot.

[0045] The present invention also relates to an in-flight refueling device comprising: - a pipe, configured to allow fluid transfer, wherein said pipe comprises a first end configured to be connected to a fluid source and a second end fitted with an in-flight refueling connector, - a system for deploying the cannon, with the ability to deploy the cannon, in particular, to coil and uncoil the cannon, up to the desired length, in order to ensure in-flight refueling, and - a guillotine system as described above.

[0046] More specifically, the guillotine system can be transported in whole or in part by the deployment system.

[0047] This invention also refers to an assembly comprising Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 20 / 46 10 / 20 - an in-flight refueling device, as described above, - a fluid source, such as fuel, connected to the first end of the pipe, and - a control circuit connected to the actuator.

[0048] The present invention also relates to an aircraft comprising a guillotine system, an in-flight refueling device or an assembly, as described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0049] Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, for the understanding of which reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which: - [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic view of a refueling aircraft equipped with an in-flight refueling device for an aircraft to be refueled; [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an in-flight refueling device according to the invention; [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a guillotine system for an in-flight refueling device according to the invention; [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic view of a variant embodiment of a guillotine system for an in-flight refueling device according to the invention; and [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic view of another variant embodiment of a guillotine system for an in-flight refueling device according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate an embodiment of an in-flight refueling device 100 according to the invention.

[0051] More specifically, Figure 2 is a perspective view of the in-flight refueling device 100 according to the Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 21 / 46 11 / 20 invention.

[0052] The in-flight refueling device 100 comprises a pipe 102, configured to allow fluid transfer, and a cutting system, in particular a guillotine system 114, configured to allow refueling to be cut through the pipe 102, if necessary.

[0053] The in-flight refueling device 100 may also include a deployment system 104, configured to allow the pipe 102 to be deployed, in particular by coiling and uncoiling the pipe 102. The pipe 102 comprises a first end 102a, configured to be connected to a fluid source 106, and a second end 102b fitted with an in-flight refueling connector 108.

[0054] The 102 pipe, for example, is about ten meters or several tens of meters long, in particular between 10 m and 30 m.

[0055] Pipe 102 is preferably a multilayer pipe comprising, for example, a metallic layer, an elastomeric layer and a textile layer.

[0056] Fluid source 106 may include at least one fluid reservoir and one pump. The fluid is, for example, fuel.

[0057] The in-flight refueling connector 108 is of the type described above in relation to Figure 1 and comprises, for example, a pressure-limiting member 110 and a frustoconical basket 112.

[0058] The 104 system for deploying the 102 barrel has the ability to coil the 102 barrel around a geometric axis X and uncoil it to the desired length to ensure in-flight refueling. The 104 deployment system is, for example, of the winch type.

[0059] The deployment system 104 may comprise a portion for attachment to a refueling aircraft structure 14. This attachment portion may be, for example, an attachment flange, not shown in the Figures.

[0060] In one embodiment, the mounting flange may be connected to two parallel arms that carry a movable drum around a geometric axis. Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 22 / 46 12 / 20 rotation X. The 102 barrel can be wound around the movable drum and unwound from the latter.

[0061] The guillotine system 114 is preferably transported by the deployment system 104.

[0062] In one embodiment, the guillotine system 114 may be fixed to a rod connected to the arms that carry the movable drum. In particular, the rod to which the guillotine system 114 is fixed may extend parallel to the geometric axis X of rotation of the movable drum.

[0063] Figure 3 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a guillotine system 114 for the in-flight refueling device 100 according to the invention. The guillotine system 114 comprises a passage 124, through which the barrel 102 has the capability to pass. The barrel 102 has the capability to slide through the passage 124 during deployment, particularly when the barrel 102 is wound and unwound.

[0064] The guillotine system 114 also comprises a blade 126, which can be moved between - a first position, in which barrel 102 can slide freely through passage 124, and - a second position, in which blade 126 cuts pipe 102 to separate it in two.

[0065] In the non-limiting embodiment shown in Figure 3, blade 126 is in the first position, which is a high position in the example shown, and barrel 102 is in the low position.

[0066] When blade 126 is in the second position, shown as dashed line 126' in Figure 3, which is the low position in the example shown, it is level with barrel 102. When blade 126 is moved from the first position to the second position, blade 126 cuts or slices barrel 20, in particular an entire section of barrel 20.

[0067] Blade 126 is preferably a metal blade.

[0068] The guillotine system 114 further comprises an actuator 128, Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 23 / 46 13 / 20 in particular configured to be activated by a control circuit 130 and configured to ensure the displacement of blade 126 from the first position to the second position.

[0069] According to the invention, actuator 128 is of the non-pyrotechnic type.

[0070] According to a first aspect of the invention illustrated in Figure 3, the actuator 128 comprises a cartridge 132, which has the capacity to contain a pressurized gas, such as air, in particular compressed air and / or a pressurized inert gas. The cartridge 132 contains a volume of pressurized gas, configured to be released after activation by the control circuit 130. Upon releasing the pressurized gas, the blade 126 can be moved from the first position to the second position. In addition to the pressurized gas, the cartridge may also comprise a fuel to form a hydride actuator. This fuel has the capacity to burn to further increase the gas pressure and thus improve the actuator's performance. The fuel is preferably associated with an ignition or activation system controlled, for example, by the control circuit 130.

[0071] Preferably, the cartridge 132 comprises a closed casing 134, which has the capacity to contain the pressurized gas. In addition, the cartridge 132 may comprise a port 136, suitable for allowing the passage of pressurized gas from the casing 134. The port 136 may be fitted with a valve 138.

[0072] The guillotine system 114 may also comprise a monitoring unit 140, which has the capacity to monitor the state of the cartridge 132.

[0073] The monitoring unit 140 comprises, for example, at least one sensor 142 and / or is connected to a sensor 142. Sensor 142 is, in particular, a pressure sensor.

[0074] The monitoring unit 140 can be remote, mounted in the cartridge 132, in particular via port 136, and / or integrated into port 136.

[0075] The monitoring unit 140 and / or the sensor or sensors 142 may be connected to port 136, in particular to valve 138.

[0076] Monitoring unit 140 may also include or be Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 24 / 46 14 / 20 connected to at least one pipe cut status sensor, where that sensor has the capability to confirm that the pipe has been cut.

[0077] The monitoring unit preferably comprises an onboard computer, which has the capability to send an alarm in case of actuator failure and, in particular, a failure in the pressurized gas (such as a leak), and also to receive signals from the cut-off status sensor. The monitoring unit has the capability to send an alarm to the aircraft pilot.

[0078] In the example shown, the guillotine system 114 comprises a body 143, suitable for defining the passage 124. The body 143 of the guillotine system 114 comprises a chamber 144 connected, directly or by means of a pressurized gas conduit 146, to the cartridge 132, in particular to the port 136, in particular to the valve 138.

[0079] Blade 126 is disposed in passage 124 of body 143 of guillotine system 114. Blade 126 can also be carried by a support 148, like a piston. Support 148 also has the ability to move within chamber 144 when chamber 144 is fed by cartridge 132.

[0080] The movement of support 148 in chamber 144 causes blade 126 to move from the first position to the second position, thereby cutting the barrel 102.

[0081] The in-flight refueling device 100 comprising the guillotine system 114 according to the invention may, in particular, be arranged: - inside refueling aircraft 14; - at one downstream end of a fuselage 12 of the refueling aircraft 14; - under one wing of refueling aircraft 14; and / or - on a carrier, also called a nacelle, installed either at a central point on the refueling aircraft 14, and / or under the wing of the refueling aircraft 14.

[0082] Furthermore, according to the invention, the pressurized gas may be contained in cartridge 132 at a pressure of at least 10 MPa (100 bar). The pressure Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 25 / 46 15 / 20 of the pressurized gas in the cartridge 132 depends on the material, the construction of the barrel 102, the shape of the blade 126 and / or the force to be applied to cut at least part of the barrel 102.

[0083] Figure 4 is a schematic view of a variant embodiment of the guillotine system 114 for the in-flight refueling device 100 according to the invention. The guillotine system 114 further comprises an actuator 228, in particular configured to be activated by a control circuit 130, configured to move the blade 126 from the first position to the second position.

[0084] According to the invention, actuator 228 is of the non-pyrotechnic type.

[0085] According to a second aspect of the invention illustrated in Figure 4, the actuator 228 comprises an accumulator 232, which has the capacity to hold a volume of pressurized liquid, such as oil or fuel.

[0086] Accumulator 232 contains a volume of pressurized liquid, configured to be released after activation by control circuit 130. Upon releasing the pressurized liquid, blade 126 can be moved from the first position to the second position.

[0087] Preferably, the accumulator 232 comprises a first internal cavity 234a, suitable for containing pressurized liquid, and a second internal cavity 234b, suitable for containing pressurized gas and / or a resilient return member, such as a spring.

[0088] The first internal cavity 234a and the second internal cavity 234b can be separated from each other by a membrane 235, which is particularly mobile and / or deformable.

[0089] Preferably, the accumulator 232 comprises a closed casing, which has the capacity to contain pressurized liquid, pressurized gas and / or a return member. In particular, the first internal cavity 234a comprises a closed casing, suitable for containing pressurized liquid, and / or the second internal cavity 234b comprises a closed casing, suitable for containing pressurized gas. Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 26 / 46 16 / 20

[0090] In addition, the first internal cavity 234a may comprise an outlet port 236, suitable for allowing the passage of liquids to move the blade 126. In addition, the first internal cavity 234a may comprise an inlet port 239, suitable for allowing the passage of liquid to charge and / or recharge the accumulator 232 with liquid.

[0091] Outlet port 236 has the capability to allow pressurized liquid to pass from the first internal cavity 234a. Outlet port 236 can be fitted with a valve 238.

[0092] Inlet port 239 is connected to a pressurized liquid source. In particular, the pressurized liquid source may be a hydraulic pump 240, in particular, a manually operated pump, consisting of and / or connected to a liquid reservoir.

[0093] A connection between the inlet port 239 and the hydraulic pump 240 can be made by a flexible pipe 241.

[0094] The guillotine system 114 may also comprise a monitoring unit 140, which has the capability to monitor the state of the accumulator 232.

[0095] The monitoring unit 140 comprises, for example, at least one sensor 142 and / or is connected to a sensor 142. Sensor 142 is, in particular, a pressure sensor.

[0096] The monitoring unit 140 can be remote, mounted on the accumulator 232, in particular via port 236, and / or integrated into port 236.

[0097] The monitoring unit 140 and / or the sensor or sensors 142 may be connected to port 236, in particular to valve 238.

[0098] Monitoring unit 140 may also comprise or be connected to at least one pipe cut status sensor, wherein that sensor has the capability to confirm that the pipe has been cut.

[0099] The monitoring unit preferably comprises an on-board computer, which has the capability to send an alarm in case of actuator failure and, in particular, a failure in the pressurized liquid (such as a Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, p. 27 / 46 17 / 20 leak), and also to receive signals from the cut-off state sensor. The monitoring unit has the capability to send an alarm to the aircraft pilot.

[0100] In the example shown, the guillotine system 114 comprises a body 143, suitable for setting the passage 124. As mentioned above, the body 143 of the guillotine system 114 may comprise a chamber connected, directly or via a pressurized liquid conduit 146, to the accumulator 232, in particular to the port 236, in particular to its valve 238. The blade 126 is disposed in the passage 124 of the body 143 of the guillotine system 114. The blade 126 may also be carried by a support, such as a piston. As mentioned above, the support may also move within a chamber, after power is supplied to the chamber by the accumulator 232.

[0101] The movement of the support in the chamber causes blade 126 to move from the first position to the second position, thereby cutting the barrel 102.

[0102] The in-flight refueling device 100 comprising the guillotine system 114 according to the invention may, in particular, be arranged: - inside refueling aircraft 14; - at one downstream end of a fuselage 12 of the refueling aircraft 14; - under one wing of refueling aircraft 14; and / or - on a carrier, also called a nacelle, installed either at a central point on the refueling aircraft 14, and / or under the wing of the refueling aircraft 14.

[0103] Furthermore, according to the invention, the pressurized liquid may be contained in the accumulator 232 at a pressure of at least 10 MPa (100 bar). The pressure of the pressurized liquid in the accumulator 232 depends on the material, the construction of the pipe 102, the shape of the blade 126 and / or the force to be applied to cut at least part of the pipe 102.

[0104] Figure 5 is a schematic view of another variant embodiment of the guillotine system 114 for the in-flight refueling device 100 according to the invention. Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 28 / 46 18 / 20

[0105] The guillotine system 114 also comprises an actuator 328, in particular configured to be activated by a control circuit 130 and configured to move the blade 126 from the first position to the second position.

[0106] According to the invention, actuator 328 is of the non-pyrotechnic type.

[0107] According to a third aspect of the invention illustrated in Figure 5, the actuator 328 comprises a container 332, suitable for containing chemical reagents 333.

[0108] In a particular embodiment, the chemical reagents 333 are separated from each other and can be mixed and / or brought into contact to generate and release a pressurized gas. Upon releasing the pressurized gas, blade 126 can be moved from the first position to the second position.

[0109] Chemical reagents 333 are, for example, in the solid state, where one of the chemical reagents 333 is in powder form.

[0110] Container 332 contains a volume of chemical reagents 333, configured so that, after mixing, it generates a pressurized gas that has the ability to be released after activation by the control circuit 130. Upon releasing the pressurized gas, blade 126 can be moved from the first position to the second position.

[0111] Preferably, the container 332 comprises a closed enclosure that has the capacity to contain the pressurized gas. In addition, the container 332 comprises a port 336, which has the capacity to allow the passage of pressurized gas to the outside of the container 332. The port 336 may be fitted with a valve 338.

[0112] The guillotine system 114 may also include a monitoring unit 140, suitable for monitoring the state of the container 332. The monitoring unit 140 comprises, for example, at least one sensor 142 and / or is connected to a sensor 142. The sensor 142 is, in particular, a pressure sensor.

[0113] Monitoring unit 140 can be remote, mounted in container 332, in particular via port 336, and / or integrated into port 336. Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, page 29 / 46 19 / 20

[0114] The monitoring unit 140 and / or the sensor or sensors 142 may be connected to port 336, in particular to its valve 338.

[0115] Monitoring unit 140 may also comprise or be connected to at least one pipe cut status sensor, wherein that sensor has the capability to confirm that the pipe has been cut.

[0116] The monitoring unit preferably comprises an onboard computer, which has the capability to send an alarm in case of reagent failure and also to receive signals from the cut-off status sensor. The monitoring unit has the capability to send an alarm to the aircraft pilot.

[0117] In the example shown, the guillotine system 114 comprises a body 143, suitable for defining the passage 124. As mentioned above, the body 143 of the guillotine system 114 may comprise a chamber connected, directly or by means of a pressurized gas conduit, to the container 332, in particular to its port 336, notably to the valve 338.

[0118] Blade 126 is disposed in passage 124 of body 143 of guillotine system 114. Blade 126 can also be carried by a support, such as a piston. As mentioned above, the support can also move within a chamber as a result of the chamber being provided by container 332.

[0119] The movement of the support in the chamber causes blade 126 to move from the first position to the second position, thereby cutting the barrel 102.

[0120] The in-flight refueling device 100 comprising the guillotine system 114 according to the invention may, in particular, be arranged: - inside refueling aircraft 14; - at one downstream end of a fuselage 12 of the refueling aircraft 14; - under one wing of refueling aircraft 14; and / or - on a carrier, also called a nacelle, installed either at a central point on the refueling aircraft 14, and / or under the wing of the refueling aircraft 14.

[0121] Furthermore, according to the invention, the pressurized gas can be Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, pp. 30 / 46 20 / 20 generated in container 332 at a pressure of at least 10 MPa (100 bar). The pressure depends on the material, the construction of pipe 102, the shape of blade 126 and / or the force to be applied to cut at least part of pipe 102.

[0122] The advantages of the invention are numerous and include, for example: - less maintenance, since the guillotine system 114 no longer requires verification before each flight and after each return flight of the refueling aircraft 14. In addition, cartridge 132 and / or actuator 128, 228, 328 no longer have a time limit for use; - Greater reliability, since the daily assembly and disassembly work on the guillotine system 114 is eliminated; - Greater availability and flight safety, since the guillotine system 114 can be monitored by means of feedback on the pressure inside the cartridge 132 and / or the state of the actuator 128, 228, 328. This eliminates the occurrence of a failure, ensuring a better availability rate of an essential safety function so that the refueling aircraft 14, in case of failure of the in-flight refueling device 100, can land or take off with complete peace of mind; - simpler commercialization, since the guillotine 114 system is no longer subject to restrictive regulations; -etc. Petition 870250085475, dated 09 / 22 / 2025, p. 31 / 46

Claims

1 / 4 CLAIMS 1. Guillotine system (114), in particular, for an in-flight refueling device (100) comprising: - a passage (124) through which a pipe (102) can pass, - a blade (126) movable between - a first position, in which the pipe (102) has the ability to slide freely through the passage (124), and - a second position, in which the blade (126) has the ability to cut the pipe (102), in particular, to separate it into two, and - an actuator (128, 228, 328) configured to move the blade (126) from the first position to the second position, wherein said actuator (128, 228, 328) is of a non-pyrotechnic type, configured to contain and / or generate a pressurized fluid released to move the blade (126) from the first position to the second position, in wherein the actuator (228) comprises an accumulator (232), adapted to contain a volume of pressurized liquid, wherein the system comprises a monitoring unit (140),adapted to allow monitoring of an actuator state (128, 228, 328), and characterized in that the accumulator (232) comprises a first internal cavity (234a), which has the capacity to contain pressurized liquid, and a second internal cavity (234b), which has the capacity to contain pressurized gas and / or a spring return member, in particular, wherein the first internal cavity (234a) and the second internal cavity (234b) are separated from each other by a membrane (235), in particular, one that is movable and / or deformable.., 2. Guillotine system (114), according to claim 1, characterized in that the actuator (128) comprises a cartridge (132), adapted to contain a volume of a pressurized gas, in particular air and / or an inert gas.

3. Guillotine system (114), according to claim 2, Petition 870250085475, dated 22 / 09 / 2025, page 41 / 46 2 / 4 characterized in that the cartridge (132) comprises a closed casing (134) adapted to contain the pressurized gas and a door (136) adapted to allow passage of the pressurized gas.

4. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the first internal cavity (234a) comprises an outlet port (236), adapted to allow the passage of liquid for the purpose of moving the blade (126), and / or an inlet port (239), adapted to allow the passage of liquid for the purpose of charging and / or recharging the accumulator (232) with liquid.

5. System according to claim 4, characterized in that the inlet port (239) is connected to a pressurized liquid source, in particular a hydraulic pump (240), in particular one that is manually operated.

6. Guillotine system (114), according to claim 1, characterized in that the actuator (328) comprises a container (332), suitable for containing chemical reagents (333), in particular separated from each other and suitable for being mixed and / or brought into contact to generate a pressurized gas.

7. Guillotine system (114), according to claim 6, characterized in that the chemical reagents (333) are in solid form, in particular, in that one of the chemical reagents is in powder form.

8. Guillotine system (114), according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the monitoring unit (140) comprises at least one sensor (142) and / or is connected to at least one sensor (142).

9. Guillotine system (114), according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the guillotine system (114) is characterized in that it comprises a chamber (144) connected to the actuator (128, 228, 328).

10. Guillotine system (114), according to claim 9, characterized in that the blade (126) is carried by a support (148), Petition 870250085475, dated 22 / 09 / 2025, page 42 / 46 3 / 4 which has the ability to move in the chamber (144) after power is supplied to the chamber (144) by the actuator (128, 228, 328), wherein the movement of the support (148) in the chamber (144) causes the blade (126) to move from the first position to the second position.

11. Guillotine system (114), according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it further comprises a cutting status sensor, which has the capability to confirm that the barrel (102) has been cut.

12. In-flight refueling device (100) comprising: - a pipe (102), configured to allow fluid transfer, wherein said pipe comprises a first end (102a), configured to be connected to a fluid source (106), and a second end (102b) fitted with an in-flight refueling connector (108), and - a system (104) for deploying the pipe (102), wherein said system has the capability to deploy the pipe (102), in particular to coil and uncoil the pipe (102), to a desired length to ensure in-flight refueling, characterized by comprising a guillotine system (114), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. In-flight refueling device (100), according to claim 12, characterized in that the guillotine system (114) is carried wholly or in part by the deployment system (104).

14. Assembly characterized in that it comprises: - an in-flight refueling device (100), as defined in any one of claims 12 or 13, - a fluid source (106), such as fuel, connected to the first end (102a) of the pipe (102), and - a control circuit (130) connected to the actuator (128, 228, 328).

15. Aircraft (14) characterized in that it comprises a guillotine system (114), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11, or an in-flight refueling device (100), as defined in any one of claims 12 or 13, or an assembly, as defined in claim 14.

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