Device for pressure reduction, method for manufacturing a device for pressure reduction, and computer program product

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for pressure reduction, to a method for manufacturing a device for pressure reduction and to a computer program product, in particular to a device (100) for pressure reduction configured with an improved flow guidance. The improved flow guidance leads to an advantageous reduction of flow noise and to a reduction of icing problems.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the design of a device for decompression.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method and computer program for controlling production equipment used to manufacture devices for decompression. Background Technology

[0003] Devices used for decompression are often also called depressors and are used in diving technology as regulators or as components of personal protective equipment, such as regulators for compressed air breathing apparatus. To reduce pressure, for example from a high-pressure level above 200 bar to a medium-pressure level of 5 bar, the pressure reduction in diving applications or during the inhalation process during a dive can lead to a special situation where the cooling of the breathing gas accompanying the pressure reduction can cause icing of components or elements. This is partly due to external icing, which involves freezing of the decompression device or regulator in areas surrounded and flushed by water during the dive. It also involves freezing of components within the decompression device or regulator in areas surrounded and flushed by water during the dive. Icing can occur at components or connection points, especially at connections of components in contact with water, where a decrease from input pressure to output pressure occurs. Furthermore, icing is more likely to occur at components or connections where high and locally excessively high flow velocities (mostly associated with turbulence) occur near the walls of flow guides, such as pipes, connecting elements (e.g., nozzles), component transitions, component connections (e.g., mating structures or threaded parts), or the like. Increased flow velocities at walls or steps create localized pressure drops and turbulence, and, in addition to the aforementioned icing problems, are often due to: particularly regarding pressure drops, and the unfavorable conditions for providing and directing sufficient breathing gas to the user.

[0004] In order to provide and deliver sufficient gas to the user, the pressure drop caused by turbulence in the breathing regulator must be structurally balanced, which usually comes at the cost of increasing the flow cross-section of the connecting pipes and valve elements.

[0005] In general, this results in breathing regulators typically being constructed to be large and heavy in terms of size design, which may be considered a disadvantage in terms of the comfort requirements of operation and user.

[0006] Additionally, turbulence during the operation of a breathing regulator is often a cause of noise problems, as noise generated by turbulence can then be transmitted into the user's breathing mask. In fire department rescue applications, the noise transmitted from the breathing regulator to the breathing mask can be particularly problematic, especially when using communication technologies (wireless phones).

[0007] Additionally, noise radiation can be generated into the surrounding environment, and this noise radiation can also be considered or perceived as disruptive.

[0008] As a connecting member or connecting element for connecting devices, a connecting element is mentioned here, for example, which is constructed and configured to connect hoses to a supply container. In the supply container, breathing gas (air, oxygen) or a mixture of breathing gases for use in diving equipment or compressed air breathing apparatus is typically prepared under high pressure, i.e., above 150 bar (typical range: 200 bar to 400 bar).

[0009] As a connecting member or connecting element for connecting the device, and in addition, for example, the following connecting element is mentioned, which is constructed and configured to connect the tubing to the breathing mask. Therefore, regarding the flow guidance and supply of breathing gas, especially regarding the issues mentioned above concerning the pressure drop at the components of the breathing regulator when supplying breathing gas to the user, as well as icing and / or noise issues, there is a need from the prior art for improving the function of devices for decompression, especially breathing regulators.

[0010] The features and details described in connection with the apparatus and embodiments thereof within the scope of this invention are of course also applicable in relation to the methods described within the scope of this invention and the computer programs for performing the methods and their embodiments thereof, and vice versa, so that the disclosures of the various aspects of the invention may always be referred to in relation to each other. Summary of the Invention

[0011] One objective of this invention is to provide a device for decompression with improved flow guidance.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a production facility for automatically manufacturing a pressure-reducing device with improved flow guidance.

[0013] Another objective of this invention is to provide a computer program or computer program product that automates manufacturing steps at a production facility.

[0014] The aforementioned task is solved by the present invention.

[0015] The task is accomplished by the pressure-reducing device of the present invention.

[0016] The task is accomplished by the method of the present invention for controlling production equipment used to automatically manufacture devices for decompression.

[0017] The task is solved by the computer program of the present invention.

[0018] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are derived herein and are set forth in more detail in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] Implementations of devices for decompression, particularly in the design of respiratory regulators, are shown to have improved flow guidance.

[0020] The first aspect of the invention is constructed by means of a device for decompression with improved flow guidance.

[0021] The device for pressure reduction with improved flow guidance has the following components, which have

[0022] o Internal chambers,

[0023] o External chamber,

[0024] o A first gas supply line, the first gas supply line having a gas inlet for fluid connection with a high-pressure gas source, the first gas supply line being used to supply gas from the high-pressure source to the internal chamber of the assembly.

[0025] o Second gas supply line, the second gas supply line is used to supply gas and provide it to the gas output section.

[0026] The component may also be referred to as a respiratory regulator.

[0027] The internal chamber can also be called a high-pressure chamber.

[0028] The external chamber can also be called the medium-pressure chamber.

[0029] The assembly, having an internal chamber and an external chamber, achieves a reduction in the gas volume. The assembly is therefore configured to function as a pressure regulator, designed to reduce the pressure level from a first pressure level to a second pressure level. The assembly can therefore also be referred to as a pressure regulator.

[0030] The gas inlet is used to connect or attach a connecting line to the component, for example, in the form of a hose connection structure suitable for high pressure. The gas volume at the first pressure level is mostly provided by a high-pressure source, typically in the form of a bottle containing a gas mixture compressed under high pressure. The hose connection structure can be fluidly connected to the high-pressure source.

[0031] To reduce pressure, the assembly includes a valve assembly with a valve seat, valve element, flexible diaphragm, and spring element. Additionally, an adjustment element may be provided for adjusting the preload of the spring element.

[0032] The valve assembly includes a connecting element configured to connect the diaphragm not only to the spring element but also to the valve element.

[0033] The diaphragm is held in the outer chamber by means of a diaphragm retainer, for example, held against the wall of the outer chamber. When a force is applied to the diaphragm, for example by a gas volume at a first or second pressure level, by a spring element, or by external pressure, such as water pressure, the diaphragm retainer enables the diaphragm to move and deflect.

[0034] The pressure here decreases from a first pressure level (high pressure, high pressure class) above 10 MPa or 100 bar to a second pressure level (medium pressure, medium pressure class) within a pressure range below 10 MPa or 100 bar and above 0.2 MPa or 2.0 bar. The first pressure level represents the high-pressure range, which is used, for example, for supplying gas via high-pressure cylinders. The high-pressure range is typically above 20 MPa or 200 bar. The second pressure level represents the medium-pressure range. Typical medium pressures used to supply and provide gas to users such as fire brigades, mountain rescue teams, and mine rescue forces are, for example, 0.5 MPa or 5.0 bar to 1 MPa or 10.0 bar. The first pressure level is also called high pressure. The second pressure level is also called medium pressure.

[0035] The first gas supply line within the device is used to supply and guide a quantity of gas at a first pressure level (high pressure) from the gas inlet toward the valve assembly.

[0036] The second gas supply line within the device is used to supply the amount of gas at the second pressure level (medium pressure) of the breathing gas component from the valve assembly to the gas output section.

[0037] The gas output section is used to connect, for example, a connecting line designed in the form of a suitable hose connection structure to a fluid connection structure with an automated lung device.

[0038] The automatic lung device can be considered a second component for pressure reduction, designed to lower the pressure from a second pressure level (medium pressure) to a third pressure level (low pressure). The third pressure level represents a low-pressure range with pressure levels below 0.2 MPa or 2.0 bar, at which the user can inhale and exhale during use. This automatic lung device for supplying the user with a volume of breathing gas is often also called a lung demand valve (LDV). The automatic lung device then supplies the amount of breathing gas at the third pressure level directly to the user as breathing gas in the form of a mouthpiece or connector for a breathing mask. The third pressure level is also referred to as low pressure.

[0039] Users include, for example, firefighters and rescue personnel in fire and rescue units, as well as divers from fire brigades, technical rescue organizations, or police.

[0040] The component (breathing regulator), as part of a decompression device, is configured to reduce pressure from high to medium pressure in the first stage. The second component (lung auto-relief device) is configured to reduce pressure from medium to low pressure as a breathable pressure level for the user.

[0041] According to the invention, the second gas supply line is designed such that it at least partially surrounds at least one gas guiding section of the assembly on its outer side. Here, a thermally conductive contact is formed between the second gas supply line and the assembly. This advantageously creates a temperature balance between the amount of gas in the gas guiding section of the assembly and the amount in the gas supply line, and / or a temperature balance between the gas guiding section of the assembly and the second gas supply line. The gas guiding section of the assembly can be an internal chamber, an external chamber, a gas inlet, a gas outlet, the walls of the internal and external chambers, the gas inlet, the gas outlet, and the valve assembly as a whole, but particularly a valve seat, valve element, connecting element, or diaphragm fixing part, or diaphragm.

[0042] This temperature balance allows for the reduction or even significant prevention of icing of the device, particularly the components, due to cooling of the breathing gas as the pressure decreases.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the second gas supply line is arranged spirally, annularly, and / or helically around the gas guide section of the component, starting at least partially on the outside from a first end. The second gas supply line extends into the gas outlet at a second end. The annular and / or helically arranged second gas supply line results in a structural configuration where the second gas supply line is wrapped around the component in multiple turns. Advantageously, with this annular and / or helically wound arrangement, the surfaces for constructing thermal contact between the component and the second gas supply line can be optimally and maximized within a limited installation space, thereby achieving efficient temperature balance between the component and the second gas supply line and preventing icing of the component.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the second gas supply line can be configured to at least partially surround other elements of the assembly on the outside, such as also surrounding the valve assembly, and in particular also surrounding the spring element, diaphragm retainer, or connecting element. This circumferential and / or helical winding allows for the advantageously optimal and maximized design of the thermal contact portion between the components of the assembly and the second gas supply line. This results in an efficient temperature balance between the components of the assembly, and in particular between the valve assembly and the second gas supply line, which can greatly help prevent icing of the components of the assembly, especially the valve assembly.

[0045] Some embodiments indicate that individual components or functional structural groups of components for the decompression device can be manufactured or joined in a process based on printing or 3D printing technology for the construction of shape fits and / or force fits and airtight connections for plastic and / or metal materials. Other materials are plastic composites or metal composites.

[0046] Printing technology, or 3D printing technology, enables the production of components and / or parts in so-called additive manufacturing (AM) methods, that is, components, such as lay-up or layer-by-layer additive growth parts. Various printing technologies, especially 3D printing technology, enable the design of shapes that cannot be achieved using cutting or milling methods or by means of conventional injection molding methods.

[0047] The particular advantages of the described implementation using printing technology or 3D printing technology arise from the fact that, due to the new possibilities of shape design, components and / or groups of functional structures can be designed with novel functions and / or also with improved functions.

[0048] Other additive manufacturing methods are exemplified below and briefly described.

[0049] FDM 3D printing Fused deposition modeling (FFF) is also commonly referred to as fused layering, which refers to a manufacturing method that constructs a workpiece layer by layer from fusible plastic or molten metal.

[0050] Binder jetting Or, binder spray molding 3D represents an additive manufacturing method in which powdered starting material is bonded to an binder at selected locations to produce a workpiece. The mechanical properties of the workpiece can be improved by subsequently removing the binder using a sintering process.

[0051] SLS Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) is an industrial 3D printing method ideally suited for manufacturing end-application parts. In SLS, a laser selectively sintersects polymer powder particles, fusing them together and building the part layer by layer.

[0052] Stereolithography

[0053] In stereolithography, workpieces are constructed layer by layer from photocurable plastics (photopolymers, such as acrylic, epoxy, or vinyl ester resins) by freely materializing (grid) points in space, and then cured layer by layer by a laser. In stereolithography, because the laser-cured resin is still relatively soft, large components and elements with specific shapes (e.g., protrusions) must be reliably fixed during the construction process. For this purpose, a support structure is also constructed during manufacturing. After the construction process, the component is released from the support structure, cleaned with a solvent, and fully cured in an enclosure under ultraviolet light. In micro-stereolithography for smaller components, a support structure is not required, and in many cases, re-curing can be omitted.

[0054] MJM MultiJet Modeling (MJM) involves fabricating parts by spraying an adhesive onto a thin layer of polymer powder particles followed by a sintering process using an infrared heat source. MJM produces functional plastic parts with isotropic mechanical properties suitable for prototyping or low-volume production for end-use applications.

[0055] Other additive manufacturing methods are listed, for example, in the German standard “Additive Manufacturing Methods”: VDI 34005, the American standard “Additive Manufacturing Technology”: ASTM F42, or the international standard “Additive Manufacturing”: ISO / TC 261. For the sake of completeness, exemplary excerpts are given below:

[0056] • Stereolithography (SL, SLA)

[0057] Laser sintering (LS)

[0058] • Laser beam melting (SLM = Selective Laser Melting, also: Laser beam melting = LBM)

[0059] Electron beam melting (EBM)

[0060] • Fused Layer Molding (FLM)

[0061] • Fused Filament Manufacturing (FFF)

[0062] • Multi-nozzle molding (MJM)

[0063] • Polymer nozzle forming (PJM)

[0064] • Adhesive spraying

[0065] 3D printing

[0066] • Lamination Manufacturing (LLM)

[0067] Digital Light Processing (DLP)

[0068] • Heat Transfer Sintering (TTS)

[0069] In another preferred embodiment, the gas outlet is designed with an inner geometry that forms an inner contour, thus eliminating steps or shoulders in the transition between the gas outlet and the connecting element. The connecting element for connection to the gas outlet can be designed, for example, as a connecting element, a connecting pipe, or a flexible hose connection structure. The inner contour can be manufactured or joined using printing or 3D printing technology. The absence of flow separation and / or substantially laminar flow at the transition between the gas outlet and the connecting element reduces turbulence and pressure drop at the transition between the connecting element and the gas outlet, and therefore also reduces, for example, potential flow-related noise.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the gas outlet of the component is designed with a cylindrical or tubular outer contour on the outside. The cylindrical or tubular outer contour is configured to attach or receive connecting or coupling elements. Connecting or coupling elements can be configured, for example, to connect to the cylindrical or tubular outer contour of the gas outlet by means of a mating connection, clamping connection, or cutting connection. As an example, the so-called cut-ring threaded connection structure is mentioned herein. The cut-ring threaded connection structure, or cut-ring pipe threaded connection structure, is an assembly component for high-pressure applications up to 600 bar, designed and configured to achieve a gas-tight connection between cylindrical pipe elements. For example, the cut-ring threaded connection structure is listed, for example, in the international standard "Metallic pipe threaded connection structures for hydrodynamic and general applications": ISO 8434-1 and is classified for applications in different pressure ranges. The outer contour can be manufactured or can be manufactured using printing or 3D printing technology.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the second gas supply line is designed as a common component together with the assembly. This common component is preferably, and for example, manufactured in one piece using a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology, or it can be manufactured using printing or 3D printing technology.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, the second gas supply line and the gas output section are designed as a common component. This common component is preferably, and for example, manufactured in one piece using a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology, or it can be manufactured using printing or 3D printing technology.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the gas output section, the second gas supply line, and the assembly are designed as a common component. This common component is preferably, and for example, manufactured in one piece using a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology, or it can be manufactured using printing or 3D printing technology.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the gas inlet is designed as a common component together with the assembly. This common component is preferably, and for example, manufactured in one piece using a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology, or it can be manufactured using printing or 3D printing technology.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the gas inlet, gas outlet, and second gas supply line are designed together with the components as a common component.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the common component may be manufactured in a manufacturing or joining method based on printing technology or 3D printing technology, or may be manufactured based on printing technology or 3D printing technology.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, the valve assembly having a diaphragm, a valve seat, and valve elements, as a structural group, can be manufactured or joined using a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology. The manufacturing or joining method preferably yields a common structural group, and more preferably, a one-piece common structural group.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment, in a manufacturing or joining method based on printing technology or 3D printing technology, a material composed of plastic material, plastic composite material, metal material, or metal composite material is used.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, the common component can preferably be manufactured, for example, in a one-piece manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology, or can be manufactured based on printing or 3D printing technology. The manufacturing or joining method can preferably be implemented as an automated method.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the support structure used in additive manufacturing is not used in the 3D printing-based manufacturing or bonding method. This manufacturing or bonding method offers the advantage that post-processing steps can be omitted. For example, if an inner contour with a teardrop or triangular structure is chosen instead of a substantially circular internal shape, such as the substantially circular internal shape of a gas inlet, gas outlet, and second gas supply pipe, the support structure can be omitted.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the gas inlet is embedded, screwed, or pressed into a mating seat arranged in the assembly as an insert. The seat may be introduced into the assembly, for example, by milling and / or cutting, in the form of a hole, thread, or receiving portion. Here, the assembly may be manufactured from plastic material or plastic composite material using a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology, or may be manufactured using printing or 3D printing technology.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the gas outlet is embedded, screwed in, or pressed into a mating seat arranged in the assembly as an insert. The seat may be introduced into the assembly, for example, by means of milling and / or cutting, in the form of a hole, thread, or receiving portion.

[0083] The above describes aspects of the present invention relating to a decompression apparatus with improved flow guidance.

[0084] The following describes in more detail another aspect of the invention concerning a method for controlling production equipment used to automatically manufacture a pressure-reducing device with improved flow guidance. Furthermore, aspects relating to computer programs or computer program products will be explained. The computer program or computer program product enables the method to be implemented in the production equipment while automating the manufacturing steps.

[0085] As suitable production equipment for the automated manufacture of devices for decompression, printing equipment, 3D printing equipment, and drilling, turning, or milling equipment are particularly mentioned herein for machining or post-processing the devices according to the invention prepared by means of printing equipment or 3D printing equipment. Printing equipment and 3D printing equipment enable the manufacture of parts according to methods already mentioned within the scope of this application, such as FDM 3D printing (Fused Deposition Modeling) or FFF, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Multi-nozzle Molding (MJM), Poly-nozzle Molding (PJM), Fused Layer Molding / Manufacturing (FLM), Selective Laser Melting (SLM), Stereolithography (SL), Laser Sintering (LS), and Electron Beam Melting (EBM). Plastic materials, plastic composites, metal materials, or metal composites can be used. Drilling, turning, or milling equipment, especially when designed as machine tools with CNC control (CNC = Computer Numerical Control), can automate the shaping, surface treatment, drilling, milling, and thread cutting of components. The definition of component processing or post-processing can be automated here using a CAM system (Computer-Aided Manufacturing). Plastic materials, plastic composites, metal materials, or metal composites can be used.

[0086] Control here may include closed-loop control, open-loop control, or adjustments (settings, regulation) performed on the printing and 3D printing equipment used, as well as the drilling, turning, or milling equipment.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment, the method enables automated additive manufacturing in a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology, such that a second gas supply line is arranged at an assembly having an internal chamber and an external chamber, and that the second gas supply line and the assembly are constructed together such that the second gas supply line is arranged at least partially on the outside of a gas guiding section of the assembly in annular and / or spiral shape, and that there is at least a thermally conductive contact between the gas guiding section of the assembly and the second gas supply line.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the method enables automated additive manufacturing in a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology, such that a gas outlet with an inner contour is arranged at an assembly having an inner chamber and an outer chamber, and the gas outlet and the assembly are constructed together such that there are no steps or shoulders in the transition between the gas outlet and the connecting element.

[0089] In another embodiment, a computer program or computer program product is constructed, the computer program or computer program product carrying program code for executing at least one of the methods described above for the automated additive manufacturing of a device for decompression. The computer program or computer program product is constructed to carry program code for executing methods for controlling production equipment, wherein the program code can be implemented on a computer, processor, or programmable hardware component. In addition to instructions for controlling 3D printing equipment and / or drilling, turning, or milling equipment, the program code here also contains data regarding the shape and design of the device for decompression, the device having components with internal and external chambers, a gas outlet, a gas inlet, and a second gas supply line. The data may include CAD models, 3D models, 2D models, wireframe models, or vector data from a computer program (Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE)) suitable for shape and structural design.

[0090] The data may include CAD models, 3D models, 2D models, wireframe models, or vector data of computer programs suitable for computer-aided manufacturing (CAM).

[0091] The computer program products and program code herein include data (CAE, CAM) required for creating a device for decompression, so as to manufacture the device for decompression using automated additive manufacturing on printing and 3D printing equipment as well as drilling, turning or milling equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0092] Aspects of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0093] Figure 1 An apparatus having components for decompression is schematically shown.

[0094] Figure 2 Showing according to Figure 1 A gas output section with connecting elements.

[0095] Figure 3 Showing according toFigure 2 The connecting elements.

[0096] Figure 4 Showing according to Figure 1 A variant of the gas output and gas input sections.

[0097] Figure 5 Showing according to Figure 1 Another variation of the gas output and gas input sections. Detailed Implementation

[0098] Figure 1 A decompression device 100 is schematically shown in cross-section, having an assembly 400 for connection to a high-pressure source 25 and a lung auto-device 50. The lung auto-device 50 is connected via a hose 77 to a second gas supply line 70 having a gas output section 30. The high-pressure source 25 is connected to the assembly 400 via a gas input section 20 and a first gas supply line 60. Gases 27 and 29 flow from the high-pressure source 25 through the first gas supply line 60 into the internal chamber 48 (high-pressure chamber) via the gas input section 20. The second gas supply line 70 has a wall 88. The first gas supply line 60 has a wall 87. The internal chamber 48 (high-pressure chamber) has a wall 85. The external chamber 49 (medium-pressure chamber) has a wall 86.

[0099] Gases 27, 29, and 40 flow from the inner chamber 48 to the outer chamber 49 (intermediate pressure chamber) via valve assembly 46. Valve assembly 46 causes a reduction in the first pressure level P141 to a second pressure level P251. To cause this pressure reduction, valve assembly 46 includes a valve seat 45, a valve element 47, a diaphragm 43 with a flexible construction, a spring element 90, and a connecting element 42 for coupling the valve element 47 and the spring element 90 to the diaphragm 43.

[0100] The preload of the spring element 90 can be adjusted by means of the adjusting element 92. Such an adjusting element 92 can be designed, for example, such that the preload can be adjusted by means of the rotational movement 93 via the mechanical adjustment stroke 91.

[0101] In addition to the spring element 93 applying spring force 99 to the diaphragm 43 via spring movement 98, in underwater or diving applications, an additional force 95 acts on the diaphragm 43 via water pressure 94. For the diaphragm 43, this results in an adjustment stroke 991, which is a combination of the hydraulic-pneumatic adjustment stroke 941 caused by water pressure 94 and the mechanical adjustment stroke 91.

[0102] The first pressure level P141 reacts to the preload, water pressure 94, and spring force 98. Pressure level P141 acts on valve element 47. Valve element 47, in most cases designed as a pressure regulator, has a pressure-reducing function in the region of the first pressure level (within this...). Figure 1 (The spring assembly, which is not shown together for clarity of the drawing, together with the spring element 90, is sized and designed to adjust the pressure drop from the first pressure level P141 to the second pressure level P251, that is, from a high pressure level of, for example, 200 bar to a medium pressure level of, for example, 5 bar.)

[0103] The effect of water pressure 94 on the position of the flexible diaphragm 43 in the application of device 100 in diving equipment is obtained through the water pressure 94 related to the diving depth during use. This enables the tracking of adjustments for pressure reduction at different diving depths. In a variant for land-based applications, such as when device 100 is used by fire department rescue forces, the water inlet to device 100 can be omitted, and the adjustment made by means of mechanical adjustment stroke 91 via rotational movement 93 can also be omitted if possible and / or optionally. Separated portions 81, 82 indicate how connections to the gas supply lines 60, 70 leading to the high-pressure compressed gas source 25 or the automatic lung device 50 can be designed. Figure 1 The other separate parts 83 and 84 show how component 400 can be embedded into the overall structure of device 100.

[0104] In Figure 1 In the middle, the second gas supply line 70 at least partially surrounds the assembly 400 on the outside. According to... Figure 1 In this embodiment, the second gas supply line 70 is wound around the component 400 having an inner chamber 48 and an outer chamber 49 in a spiral, annular and / or helical manner.

[0105] By designing the second gas supply line 70 in the form of this temperature exchange channel, temperature balance is achieved between the walls 85, 86 of the internal and / or external chambers 48, 49 and / or the walls 87, 88 of the gas supply lines 60, 70, and thus also between the gas quantities 27 flowing within the internal and / or external chambers 48, 49 and / or the gas supply lines 60, 70, and between the elements 42, 43, 44, 45, 47 of the valve assembly 46. Temperature balance is exemplarily shown in the figure by contact portion 61. This temperature balance has the advantage that icing of the device 100 due to cooling caused by the decrease in pressure in the gas quantity 40 at the valve assembly 46 can be reduced or even largely prevented.

[0106] The assembly 400 having the second gas supply conduit 70 can preferably be constructed as a single piece with the walls 87, 88 of the internal chamber 48 or the external chamber 49, the internal chamber 48 or the external chamber 49 itself, and other components of the assembly 400 or device 100. This single-piece design, preferably made of solid material, can advantageously be provided by a manufacturing or joining method based on printing or 3D printing technology to construct a form-fitting and / or force-fitting, and airtight connection between plastic and / or metal materials. In an alternative design, the second gas supply conduit 70 can be joined as a separate structural assembly or a separate component to the assembly 400 having the internal or external chambers 48, 49 or their walls 87, 88 via a thermal contact 61.

[0107] Figure 2 The figure shown is in contact with the connecting element 300 according to Figure 1 The gas outlet 30 is located at the end of the second gas supply line 70. The connecting element 300 is designed as a so-called cut-ring clamping threaded connection structure. The central axis 390 is shown to indicate the orientation of the engagement between the second gas supply line 70 and the connecting element 300 in / at the assembly 400.

[0108] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The same components in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The same reference numerals are used to denote the components. The connecting element 300 is received within a second gas supply line 70, which has a gas outlet 30 on its inner side. (See attached figures.) Figure 3 As illustrated in the drawing, the cutting clamping element establishes a force-fit and form-fit connection between the second gas supply pipe 70 with a gas output section 30 and the connecting element 300 at the end of the connecting element, ensuring a force-fit and form-fit connection. Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 In this embodiment, the connecting element 300 exemplarily has a plug element 308 at another end, which is configured for connection with a mating connecting element, for example, to enable connection with the automatic lung device 50. Figure 1 ) connected hose 77 ( Figure 1 ).

[0109] In a similar manner, it includes a gas inlet section 20 ( Figure 1 ) First gas supply pipeline 60 ( Figure 1 It can also be connected to a high-voltage source 25 (using connecting elements). Figure 1 Fluid connection.

[0110] Figure 3 The figures are shown in sectional view 301 and perspective view 302 according to Figure 2The connecting element 300 in an exemplary design of a cutting ring clamping threaded connection structure. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0111] Figure 4 As shown in detail figure 303, according to Figure 1 A variation of the gas output section 30 and the gas input section 20. Figure 1 , 2 The same elements in 3 and 4 Figure 1 , 2 The same reference numerals are used in figures 3 and 4. Figure 5 As shown in further detail Figure 304, according to Figure 1 Further variations of the gas output and gas input sections. Figure 1 , 2 The same elements in 3, 4, and 5 Figure 1 , 2 The same reference numerals are used in reference numerals 3, 4, and 5. The gas inlet 20 and the gas outlet 30 are... Figure 1 The shape is shown on the outside and inside with a circular form without any outline or shape.

[0112] Figure 4 and Figure 5 A variation is shown of a circularly shaped gas inlet section 20 and gas outlet section 30 with external connections for connecting elements, the connecting elements receiving the external circular shapes of the gas inlet section 20 and gas outlet section 30 internally. For example, a connecting element 300 configured as a cut-ring clamping connection structure (…) Figure 2 The gas inlet 20 and the gas outlet 30 can be configured to have a contour on their inner sides.

[0113] This profile achieves the avoidance of additional and potentially complex support structures, which may be necessary for some manufacturing or joining methods, particularly 3D printing technologies. For example, 3D printing technologies such as Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) or Selective Laser Melting (SLM) typically require support structures, i.e., methods in which metal powder is welded in a powder bed using a laser.

[0114] Figure 4 Detailed Figure 303 shows not only the gas inlet section 20 but also the gas outlet section 30, which has a triangular structure 305 on its inner side. The triangular structure can preferably be constructed in the form of an equilateral triangle.

[0115] Figure 5Detailed Figure 304 shows not only the gas inlet section 20 but also the gas outlet section 30, which has a droplet-shaped structure 306 on its inner side.

[0116] according to Figure 4 and 5 Structures 305 and 306, for example, achieve the following: in embodiments of the apparatus having components for decompression, in the SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) or SLM (Selective Laser Melting) manufacturing methods, no support structure is required inside the gas inlet 20 or gas outlet 30.

[0117] List of reference numerals

[0118] 20 Gas Inlet Section

[0119] 25 High-pressure gas source

[0120] 27 gas quantity

[0121] 29. Arrow representing the flow of the incoming gas.

[0122] 30 Gas output section, medium pressure output section

[0123] 39. Arrow representing the flow of the outflowing gas

[0124] 40 Flow arrow, flow through the valve seat / valve element

[0125] 41 First pressure level P1

[0126] 42 Connecting elements

[0127] 43. Membranes, flexible membranes, elastic membranes

[0128] 44 Diaphragm Fixing Section

[0129] 45 valve seat

[0130] 46 with valve assemblies 42, 43, 44, 45, and 47.

[0131] 47 Valve Components

[0132] 48 Internal chambers, high-pressure chambers

[0133] 49. External chambers, medium-pressure chambers

[0134] 50 Automated Lung Devices

[0135] 51 Second pressure level P2

[0136] 60 First gas supply pipeline

[0137] 61. Contact area, thermal contact area, thermally conductive contact area

[0138] 70 Second gas supply pipeline

[0139] 77 Hose Piping

[0140] The separation sections in gas supply lines 20, 30, 60, and 70 of pipelines 81 and 82.

[0141] The separating parts in components 83 and 84 400

[0142] 85, 86 Internal chambers / External chambers 48, 49

[0143] 87, 88 Gas supply pipelines 60, 70 wall

[0144] 90 spring element

[0145] 91 Mechanical Adjustment Stroke

[0146] 92 Adjustment element, turn the handle

[0147] 93 Adjusting motion, rotating motion

[0148] 94 water pressure

[0149] 95 additional forces

[0150] 98 Spring motion, spring travel

[0151] 99 spring force

[0152] 100 Devices for pressure reduction

[0153] 300 connecting elements

[0154] 301 Sectional View

[0155] 302 perspective view

[0156] Detailed images of 303 and 304

[0157] 305 Triangle Structure

[0158] 306 teardrop structure

[0159] 308 central axis

[0160] 400 components

[0161] 941 Hydraulic and pneumatic adjustment stroke

[0162] Adjustment of the stroke for 991 synthesis.

Claims

1. A device (100) for reducing pressure, said device for adjusting gas pressure, said device having: An assembly (400) having an internal chamber (48) and an external chamber (49), the assembly being used to reduce a first pressure level (41) above 10 MPa to a second pressure level (51) below 10 MPa and above 2 MPa. in, The component (400) has a first gas supply line (60) having a gas inlet (20) for fluid connection with a high-pressure gas source (25) and for supplying a quantity of gas at a first pressure level from the high-pressure gas source to the component (400) and into the internal chamber (48). The component (400) includes a second gas supply line (70) for supplying and providing a gas quantity at the second pressure level (51) to the gas output section (30). The second gas supply line (70) at least partially surrounds at least one gas guiding section of the component (400) on the outside. A thermally conductive contact (61) is present at least partially between the second gas supply line (70) and the component (400). thereby There is a temperature balance between the amount of gas in the gas guiding section of the component (400) and the amount of gas in the second gas supply line (70). There is a temperature balance between the gas guiding section of the component (400) and the second gas supply line (70).

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, in, The second gas supply line (70) begins at the first end. The gas guiding section of the assembly (400) is arranged at least partially on the outer side in an annular and / or spiral manner, wherein the second gas supply line (70) extends into the gas output section (30) at a second end, and wherein the second gas supply line (70) at least partially surrounds other elements of the assembly (400) on the outer side, wherein a thermally conductive contact (61) is at least partially present between the second gas supply line (70) and the other elements of the assembly (400). Thus, there is a temperature balance between the other element of the assembly (400) and the amount of gas in the second gas supply line (70) and / or between the other element of the assembly (400) and the second gas supply line (70).

3. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, in, The gas output section (30) of the component (400) is designed with a geometric structure on the inside, which forms an inner contour so that there are no steps or shoulders in the transition between the gas output section (30) and the connecting element (300). Thus, a flow state without flow separation and / or substantially local laminar flow is generated at the transition between the gas output section (30) and the connecting element (300) for the supply of gas from the gas output section (30) toward the automatic lung device (50) via the connecting pipe. The inner contour can be manufactured in a manufacturing or joining method that is based on printing technology for the construction of shape fit and / or force fit and airtight connection of plastic and / or metal materials.

4. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The gas output section (30) of the component (400) is designed with a columnar or tubular outer contour on the outside. The columnar outer contour can be manufactured in a manufacturing or joining method that is based on printing technology for the construction of shape fit and / or force fit and airtight connection of plastic and / or metal materials.

5. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein The second gas supply line (70) together with the component (400) And / or, the second gas supply line (70) together with the gas output section (30) And / or, the gas output section (30) together with the component (400) and the second gas supply line (70) And / or, the gas inlet (20) together with the component (400) and the second gas supply line (70) And / or, the gas inlet (20), the gas outlet (30), and the second gas supply line (70) together with the component (400) and the second gas supply line (70) Designed as common components.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The common component can be manufactured in a printing-based manufacturing or joining method, wherein a material made of plastic or metal is used in the printing-based manufacturing or joining method.

7. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, A valve assembly (46) having a diaphragm (43), a diaphragm fixing part (44), a valve element (47), a spring element (90), and a valve seat (45) as part of the common component can be manufactured in a printing-based manufacturing or joining method.

8. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The common component can be manufactured in one piece using a printing-based manufacturing or joining method.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, No support structure is used in manufacturing or joining methods based on 3D printing technology.

10. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The gas output section (30) and / or the gas input section (20) are inserted, screwed in or pressed into a mating seat arranged in the assembly (400) as inserts.

11. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The gas input section (20) and / or the gas output section (30) And / or, at least some of the following portions of a valve assembly (46) having a valve seat (45), a valve element (47), a spring element (90), a diaphragm (43), and a diaphragm retainer (44), Preparation or pre-processing is carried out in manufacturing or joining methods based on 3D printing technology, and further processing is carried out with the aid of traditional mechanical cutting post-processing.

12. A method for automatically additive manufacturing of the apparatus (100) for decompression according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The method achieves the following: The second gas supply line (70) is arranged in such a way as to the assembly (400) having an inner chamber (48) and an outer chamber (49). And the components that are constructed together by the second gas supply line (70) and the assembly (400), The second gas supply line (70) is arranged at least partially on the outside of the gas guiding section of the component (400) in an annular and / or spiral manner, and there is a thermally conductive contact (61) between the gas guiding section of the component (400) and the second gas supply line (70) at least partially.

13. A method for automatically additive manufacturing of the apparatus (100) for decompression according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The method achieves the following: The gas outlet section (30) with an inner contour is arranged in such a way that it is located at the assembly (400) having an inner chamber (48) and an outer chamber (49). and the component that is constructed together by the gas output section (30) and the assembly (400). This ensures that there are no steps or shoulders in the transition between the gas output section (30) and the connecting element (300).

14. A computer program product having program code for performing at least one of the methods according to any one of claims 12 or 13.

Images