Irreversible activatable temperature extreme value indicating device

Abstract

The invention relates to a temperature extreme value indicating device (1), comprising:-a bimetallic metal strip (3); -an indicator (5) configured to be rotated by the bimetallic metal strip (3); and-a needle (7, 9) arranged to irreversibly move from a neutral configuration, in which the needle (7, 9) remains stationary as the indicator moves, to a loaded configuration, in which the needle (7, 9) is rotated by the indicator (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to temperature extreme value indicators, particularly for monitoring the extreme temperatures of objects, and especially wine. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, some objects (especially medical or biological products, high-tech products, or food) must be stored within a specific temperature range to prevent them from spoiling.

[0003] Of these substances, wine is a product particularly sensitive to temperature and its variations. Its quality and tasting experience can change dramatically depending on whether it is exposed to excessively high or low temperatures for a longer or shorter period. Wine cannot withstand rapid and frequent thermal shocks or extreme temperatures (frost, direct sunlight). Excessively high temperatures can accelerate the deterioration of wine, but in some cases, can cause its natural qualities to decline prematurely; it cannot reach its potential for normal deterioration under normal and stable temperatures. While wine is most often placed under favorable thermal conditions during the winemaking process, the marketing stage appears to expose the wine bottle to greater risks. Indeed, as wine travels through the distribution chain to merchants, wholesalers, and other distributors, it may be exposed to unsuitable temperatures for extended periods and in largely uncontrolled ways.

[0004] For these objects whose quality depends on storage temperature, a temperature extreme value measuring instrument is needed to measure the temperature in which the object is exposed, especially an instrument that can be activated before the critical period of transportation or distribution. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide a temperature extreme value measuring instrument that can be activated before critical transportation or distribution periods.

[0006] This objective is achieved within the framework of the present invention due to a device for indicating extreme temperature values, the device comprising:

[0007] -Bimetallic strip,

[0008] - The measuring instrument is configured to rotate driven by a bimetallic strip, and

[0009] -Needle,

[0010] The device is configured to irreversibly switch from a neutral configuration to an armed configuration:

[0011] - In the neutral configuration, the needle remains stationary while the measuring instrument moves.

[0012] - In the equipment configuration, the needle is driven to rotate by the measuring instrument.

[0013] This device is advantageously and optionally complemented by the following individual or combined features:

[0014] -The device includes:

[0015] A dial, with a needle movably mounted on it, rotates about axis (A), and

[0016] A support for a bimetallic strip includes a hook-shaped element such that when the device switches from a neutral configuration to an equipped configuration, the support moves along axis (A) toward the dial, and the hook-shaped element elastically deforms to attach to the dial.

[0017] - The dial includes a disk extending about an axis (A) and including an upper face and a lower face, the lower face facing the bimetallic strip. The disk has a slot extending circumferentially about the axis, the slot passing through the dial from the upper face to the lower face in an axial direction parallel to the axis (A). The needle passes through the dial in the axial direction and protrudes from the lower face of the dial to form a stop located axially between the dial and the bimetallic strip.

[0018] The device is configured as follows:

[0019] In a neutral configuration, the stop and the measuring instrument are separated along the axial direction, such that the stop is positioned between the lower surface and the measuring instrument along the axial direction.

[0020] The neutral configuration is switched to the equipment configuration by shifting the support, bimetallic strip and measuring instrument along the axial direction toward the dial, such that the distance separating the lower surface and the measuring instrument along the axial direction is less than or equal to the distance separating the lower surface and the stop.

[0021] - The needle is movably mounted on the dial in a single rotational manner about axis (A), and advantageously, the needle includes a pawl, a slot, and a pawl that contact according to an asymmetrical tooth shape;

[0022] - The dial has a groove passing through the dial from the upper face to the lower face along the axial direction. The groove extends in the circumferential direction around the axis (A) such that the measuring instrument faces the groove along the axial direction. The groove and slot extend around the axis (A) in angular sectors that do not overlap around the axis.

[0023] - The upper surface includes a first group and a second group of temperature scales, each group extending circumferentially around axis (A) along the slot, the first group located between axis (A) and the slot, the slot located between the first and second groups, and the needle comprising:

[0024] A circumferential portion extending circumferentially toward the slot includes a first end in a first group direction and a second end in a second group direction, the first and second ends defining the same radial direction relative to the axis (A).

[0025] The internal portion extends towards the first set of graduations and forms the first loop.

[0026] The outer portion extends towards the second set of scales and forms a second loop.

[0027] The upper surface and the needle are configured such that when the radial direction passes through one of the scales, one of the scales is surrounded by a first loop or a second loop.

[0028] - The needle is the first needle, and the device includes a second needle. The first and second needles are configured to be driven by the measuring instrument in different rotational modes.

[0029] - The slot is a first slot, the dial has a second slot extending in the circumferential direction around the axis, the groove, the first slot and the second slot are evenly angularly distributed around the axis (A), the second pin advantageously includes a second claw, the second slot and the second claw contact according to an asymmetrical tooth shape;

[0030] - A housing, which defines a shell enclosed by a dial, in which a bimetallic strip and a measuring instrument are located, the housing includes a lower wall, the bimetallic strip being axially located between the dial and the lower wall, the lower wall defining an orifice leading to the inside and outside of the housing, and a support including a pusher extending along an axis (A) through the orifice through the lower wall, the pusher and the orifice having a shape complementary in cross section to the axial direction, the complementary shape not having rotational symmetry with respect to the axis (A);

[0031] - The lower wall has a central recess facing the bimetallic strip, such that in the neutral configuration, the end of the pusher that is furthest from the bimetallic strip along the central axis (A) is closer to the bimetallic strip than the end of the lower wall that is furthest from the bimetallic strip.

[0032] One of the housing and the dial includes a groove extending circumferentially to the axis (A), and the other of the housing and the dial includes teeth configured to engage with the groove to fix the angular position between the housing and the dial; and

[0033] - The device includes a component made of transparent material facing the dial, which is enclosed between the housing and the transparent material component.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a method for indicating extreme temperatures, the method comprising an irreversible switch from a neutral configuration to an equipment configuration:

[0035] In this neutral configuration, the needle remains stationary while the measuring instrument is rotated by the bimetallic strip.

[0036] - In this equipment configuration, the needle is driven to rotate by the measuring instrument.

[0037] This approach is advantageously and optionally complemented by the following individual or combined features:

[0038] - The needle is mounted on the dial, allowing it to move relative to the dial about axis (A). Switching from a neutral configuration to an equipped configuration includes displacement along the axis of the bimetallic strip's support toward the dial and attachment of the hook-shaped part of the support to the dial by elastic deformation of the hook-shaped part; and

[0039] - The displacement of the support is configured such that the distance between the measuring instrument and the lower face of the dial along the axial direction parallel to axis (A) is less than or equal to the distance between the needle stop and the lower face along the axial direction, the lower face facing the bimetallic strip, and the stop located between the dial and the bimetallic strip. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is illustrative only and not restrictive, and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0041] Figures 1 to 7 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Bimetallic strip

[0043] about Figures 1 to 7 The device 1 for indicating extreme temperature values ​​includes a bimetallic strip 3. The bimetallic strip 3 includes a slider formed of two different metals fixed to each other. The thickness of the slider is between 5 and 9 mm, preferably between 6 and 8 mm. Ideally, the thickness of the slider is chosen to be 7.2 mm. The bimetallic strip 3 is wound around the central axis A of the device 1 in a helical shape. The total diameter of the bimetallic strip 3 can be:

[0044] - Greater than or equal to 21 mm, and preferably greater than or equal to 25 mm,

[0045] - Less than or equal to 31 mm, and preferably less than or equal to 27 mm.

[0046] Ideally, the total diameter of the bimetallic strip 3 is chosen to be 26 mm. The bimetallic strip 3 may include 6 to 12 turns, and preferably 7 to 11 turns. Ideally, the bimetallic strip 3 includes 9 turns.

[0047] The bimetallic strip 3 includes an inner end 65 and an outer end 67. Each of ends 65 and 67 includes a straight portion, wherein the slider extends on one side along an axial direction parallel to axis A and on the other side along a radial direction. The radial direction is perpendicular to axis A and passes through axis A.

[0048] The length of the straight portion of the inner end 65 along the radial direction includes between 4 and 6 mm, with an ideal length of 4.8 mm.

[0049] The length of the straight portion of the outer end 67 along the radial direction includes between 1 and 3 mm, with an ideal length of 1.8 mm.

[0050] Axis A passes through the inner end 65. An angle centered on a straight central axis in a radial plane can be defined from the straight portions of ends 65 and 67. Here, the radial plane is defined as a plane perpendicular to axis A. The bimetallic strip 3 is configured to be heat-sensitive, such that the angle changes according to temperature. In particular, the angle change can be selected according to temperature variations.

[0051] - Greater than or equal to 2 degrees Celsius, preferably greater than or equal to 2.5 degrees Celsius;

[0052] - Less than or equal to 3.6 degrees / degree Celsius, preferably less than or equal to 3.1 degrees / degree Celsius.

[0053] Ideally, the angle change chosen based on temperature variation is equal to 2.8 degrees Celsius, meaning a 20-degree Celsius change results in a 56-degree angle.

[0054] During the manufacture of the bimetallic strip, it can be specified that at a temperature of 20°C, the separation angle between the straight portions of ends 65 and 67 is equal to zero, that is, the straight portions are continuous with each other at this temperature.

[0055] The rotation of the outer end 67 relative to the inner end 65 about the central axis A is defined as follows:

[0056] - It is positive when the temperature rises, and

[0057] - The value is negative when the temperature decreases.

[0058] Current temperature measuring instrument

[0059] The device 1 includes a measuring instrument 5, which is configured to be driven to rotate by the bimetallic strip 3. Specifically, the measuring instrument 5 can be used as a current temperature display. The current temperature refers to the current temperature of the bimetallic strip or the temperature of the bimetallic strip when measuring its angular deviation. Regarding... Figure 6The measuring instrument 5 includes a central portion 75 extending annularly around a central axis A. This central portion 75 has a hollow annular shape at its center so that the area passing through and surrounding the central axis A is free of material. The measuring instrument 5 includes a peripheral portion 77 extending perpendicularly to the central axis A from the central portion 75 and away from the central axis A. The peripheral portion 77 includes two sidewalls 79 and 81, each sidewall extending radially and parallel to the central axis A. The peripheral portion 77 extends between these two sidewalls over an angular sector centered on the central axis A, the angular sector being approximately 56 degrees. Therefore, the value of the angular sector can be between 53 and 60 degrees, preferably between 55 and 57 degrees.

[0060] The measuring instrument 5 extends axially between the lower and upper walls facing the bimetallic strip. The thickness of the measuring instrument in this axial direction can be selected between 1 and 2 mm, for example, equal to 1.6 mm. The lower and upper walls are orthogonal to the central axis A. The upper wall includes temperature markings 39 that are identifiable by the operator.

[0061] Two baffles 83 and 85 extend axially from the lower wall of the measuring instrument 5. The two baffles 83 and 85 are located on either side of the straight portion of the outer end 67 and are in contact with or nearly in contact with this straight portion. The baffles 83 and 85 extend approximately 5 mm in the radial direction associated with this straight portion. The measuring instrument 5 is movably mounted to rotate about a central axis relative to the inner end 65 of the bimetallic strip. Movement of the outer end 67 due to temperature changes causes the measuring instrument 5 to rotate about the central axis via the baffles 83 and 85.

[0062] Therefore, the measuring instrument 5 rotates relative to its inner end 65:

[0063] -When the temperature rises, it proceeds in a positive direction, and

[0064] -When the temperature decreases, it does so in a negative manner.

[0065] Optionally, the upper end portion 67 includes a curved portion in the radially outward continuation of the straight portion, wherein the slider extends on one hand parallel to axis A in the axial direction and on the other hand in the circumferential direction. The circumferential direction is orthogonal to axis A and orthogonal to the radial direction. According to this option, two baffles 83 and 85 are located on both sides of the straight and curved portions of the outer end portion 67. Each baffle 83 and 85 includes, on the one hand, a straight portion extending in the radial direction associated with the straight portion of the outer end portion 67, and on the other hand, a curved portion extending in the circumferential direction associated with the curved portion of the outer end portion 67, the curved portion extending along the continuation of the straight portion. The curved portion of the upper end portion 67 is radially outwardly surrounded by a first curved portion and radially inwardly surrounded by a second curved portion. The addition of the curved portion and the curved portion allows for better retention of the measuring instrument 5 at the outer end of the bimetallic strip, making it easier to hold the two components together, especially during the transport or handling of the device.

[0066] Bimetallic strip support

[0067] The device 1 may include a support member 13 for the bimetallic strip 3. This support member 13 extends along the central axis A through the bimetallic strip 3. (Regarding...) Figure 3 The support member 13 may include a platform 69 configured to contact a first turn of the bimetallic strip along a radial plane, i.e., a first turn surrounding the inner end 65 of the bimetallic strip. The platform 69 is configured to support these first turns. The support member 13 includes two rods 71 ​​and 73 extending from the platform 69 in an axial direction, i.e., in the direction of the central axis A. These two rods face each other and together define a gap into which the straight portion of the inner end 65 of the bimetallic strip 3 can be inserted. The platform 69 is not interrupted at the axial position, such that the platform 69 is configured to block the straight portion of the inner end 65 of the bimetallic strip 3 from insertion into the gap in a manner oriented toward the central axis A. The two rods extend parallel to the radial direction associated with the straight portion, preventing the straight portion of the inner end 65 from rotating relative to the support member 13 about the central axis A.

[0068] The nozzle of the bimetallic strip support

[0069] Each of the two rods 71 ​​and 73 extends axially from the platform 69 to the distal end 20. The two rods 71 ​​and 73 extend axially from the platform and are further apart from each other at a reference position of the support. The reference position corresponds to a location where the support is not subject to any specific mechanical stress. Rods 71 ​​and 73 are chosen to be thin enough and made of a sufficiently elastic material so that the operator can manually bring rods 71 ​​and 73 closer together, and in particular, bring the distal ends 20 closer together. This deformation places the support in a stressed position. This deformation is elastic so that when the operator stops applying pressure to the support 13, rods 71 ​​and 73, as well as the distal end 20, leave the stressed position and return to the reference position.

[0070] Rods 71 ​​and 73 have a receiving area 87 configured to accommodate the central portion 75 of the measuring instrument 5. In a reference position, rods 71 ​​and 73 define a diameter in a radial plane at the location of the receiving area 87, which is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the annular portion of the central portion 75 of the measuring instrument 5. Rods 71 ​​and 73 each have nozzles 86 and 88 that project radially outward relative to a central axis. Nozzles 86 and 88 are located in the same axial position, such that the receiving area 87 is situated between the platform 69 and the nozzles 86 and 88. Nozzles 86 and 88 define an outer diameter in a radial plane in the reference position, which is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the annular portion of the central portion 75 of the measuring instrument 5.

[0071] Between nozzles 86 and 88 and the distal end 20, the radial outer diameter of rods 71 ​​and 73 is smaller than the inner diameter of the annular portion of the central part 75 of measuring instrument 5.

[0072] The distal end 20 of the rod can be inserted through the annular portion 75 of the measuring instrument 5 and slid through the central portion 75 until it contacts the nozzle. The operator can then apply a slight force to press the central portion 75 against the nozzles 86 and 88 in the direction of the platform 69. Under this force, the rods 71 ​​and 73 of the measuring instrument move closer together, and the support is in a stressed position. Since the central portion 75 is no longer blocked by the nozzles 86 and 88, it can move closer to the platform 69, all the way to the receiving area 87. The nozzle contacts the inner wall of the annular portion, which holds the rods 71 ​​and 73 in the closed position. When the central portion 75 is below the nozzle, the nozzles 86 and 88 no longer contact the inner wall of the annular portion and the support 13, and the rods 71 ​​and 73, along with the distal end 20, leave the stressed position and return to the reference position. The annular portion of the central portion 75 is then held between the platform 69 and the nozzle by the nozzle. Specifically, when the bimetallic strip 3 abuts against the platform 69, the measuring instrument 5 can be placed in this area. In this way, the bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5 are held axially by the platform 69 on one hand and by the nozzle on the other: the bimetallic strip is axially blocked by the platform 69, the bimetallic strip and the measuring instrument 5 are axially blocked together, and the measuring instrument 5 is axially blocked by the nozzle. Furthermore, the distance between the platform 69 and the nozzles 86 and 88 can be adjusted along the length of the central axis A of the bimetallic strip and the central portion 75 of the measuring instrument 5. In this way, the lower wall of the measuring instrument contacts or nearly contacts the turns of the bimetallic strip. The distance adjustment provides sufficient mechanical clearance for the number of turns of the measuring instrument 5 and the bimetallic strip, allowing it to rotate about the axis relative to the support 13.

[0073] Hook-shaped component of bimetallic strip support

[0074] The two rods 71 ​​and 73 may include hook-shaped members 19 located between nozzles 86, 88 and distal end 20. The hook-shaped members 19 project radially outward relative to a central axis. These hook-shaped members 19 are adjacent to the hollow portions 18 of the two rods 71 ​​and 73 such that, axially from the nozzles toward the distal end 20, the outer diameter of the support decreases at the location of the hollow portion 18, increases at the location of the hook-shaped members 19, and then decreases again at the location of the distal end 20. The rods 71 ​​and 73 may also have support members 90 axially located between nozzles 86, 88 and hollow portion 18. The outer diameter defined by the support members 90 of the rods 71 ​​and 73 is larger than the outer diameter of the hollow portion 18.

[0075] Needles that reach the lowest or highest temperature

[0076] Device 1 also includes needle 7 or 9. Optionally, the device includes two needles 7 and 9.

[0077] These two needles share many similar features, which will now be described. Needle 7 (or 9) includes a central ring 92 (or 94) surrounding a central axis A. The central ring 92 (or 94) leaves an area without any material passing through the central axis A. This area can take the form of a disk centered on the central axis A, with the central ring defining a constant inner diameter centered on the central axis A. The central ring 92 (or 94) can also define a constant outer diameter centered on the central axis A.

[0078] Needle 7 (or 9) includes a body 96 (or 98) that extends radially from the central ring 92 (or 94) while being away from the central axis A. The central ring 92 (or 94) and the body 96 (or 98) are rigidly connected to each other.

[0079] The body 96 (or 98) may specifically include a circumferential portion 45 extending around a central axis A. The circumferential portion 45 includes a first end 47 that extends radially outward from the circumferential portion 45 (i.e., away from the central axis A) and points in a radial direction through the central axis A. The circumferential portion 45 includes a second end 49 that extends radially inward from the circumferential portion 45 (i.e., closer to the central axis A) and points in the same radial direction as the first end 47.

[0080] The body 96 (or 98) may include an inner portion 51 that extends radially outward from the central ring 92 (or 94) and continues to the circumferential portion 45.

[0081] The body 96 (or 98) may include an outer portion 53 that extends radially outward from the circumferential portion 45.

[0082] In the radial plane, the inner portion 51 can form a first loop, and the outer portion 53 can form a second loop, each of which is a continuation of the circumferential portion 45. Therefore, the body 96 (or 98) is S-shaped, with the circumferential portion 45 at its center.

[0083] When device 1 includes two needles 7 and 9, bodies 96 and 98 extend in different angular sectors centered on the central axis A. Specifically, these angular sectors extending from bodies 96 and 98 can be centered radially, forming an angle greater than or equal to 120 degrees together. Bodies 96 and 98 can be located at the same axial position along the central axis A, and central rings 92 and 94 can be located at different axial positions along the central axis A. Each ring 92 and 94, and each body 96 and 98, has the same axial thickness along the central axis A, which is between 0.5 mm and 2 mm, ideally 1 mm. One of the central rings (e.g., ring 92) can have the same axial position as bodies 96 and 98, while the other ring (e.g., ring 94) is offset relative to that axial position along the central axis A. The offset is generally equal to the aforementioned axial thickness. Rings 92 and 94 can be in contact with each other or nearly in contact with each other. Each body 96 and 98 is S-shaped, with a circumferential portion 45 at its center, and the S-shape can be oriented in the same or opposite manner. The orientation of the S-shape can be evaluated, in particular, by passing the needle radially from the inside out through the body at a tangential angle relative to the average radial direction of the body. Preferably, the S-shapes of bodies 96 and 98 are oriented in a relative manner.

[0084] The body 96 (or 98) of needle 7 (or 9) includes a stop 55 extending axially from the circumferential portion 45. The stop 55 may extend from the circumferential portion for a length of 2 to 3 millimeters, for example 2.8 millimeters.

[0085] The device 1 is arranged such that the measuring instrument 5 is axially positioned between the bimetallic strip 3 and the needle 7 (or 9). When protruding into the radial plane, the needle 7 (or 9) is positioned at an angle relative to the measuring instrument 5 in the positive (or negative) direction.

[0086] When the device 1 includes two needles 7 and 9, the measuring instrument 5 is axially positioned between the bimetallic strip 3 on one side and the needles 7 and 9 on the other side. When projected onto the radial plane, needle 7 is positioned at an angle to the positive direction relative to the measuring instrument 5, and needle 9 is positioned at an angle to the negative direction relative to the measuring instrument 5. A stop 55 extends axially from the circumferential portion 45 in the direction between the measuring instrument 5 and the bimetallic strip 3.

[0087] In the most general embodiment, device 1 can be arranged in two different configurations.

[0088] In the first configuration, known as the neutral configuration, the needle 7 (or 9) remains stationary while the measuring instrument 5 moves. Specifically, the measuring instrument 5 does not come into contact with the needle 7 (or 9).

[0089] In the second configuration, referred to as the equipment configuration, the needle 7 (or 9) is driven by the measuring instrument 5. For example, the measuring instrument 5 may contact the stop 55 of the needle 7 (or 9) and push the needle in a rotational manner. More specifically, one of the sidewalls 79 or 81 of the measuring instrument 5 is in contact with the stop 55.

[0090] It should be noted that in both the neutral configuration and the equipment configuration, the measuring instrument 5, which is configured to be driven to rotate by the bimetallic strip 3, remains in free rotation, meaning that the bimetallic strip 3 also rotates freely around axis A. Therefore, when the bimetallic strip is in the neutral configuration, it is not necessary to keep the bimetallic strip 3 fixed to avoid temperature monitoring of the device. Compared to the case where the inner end 65 and the outer end 67 are fixed in the neutral configuration, this allows for limiting the wear of the bimetallic strip 3, preventing deformation due to temperature changes in the bimetallic strip 3 from generating internal stress within the bimetallic strip, which could potentially accelerate wear.

[0091] The ability to switch between neutral and equipment configurations allows for the selection of when temperature monitoring should begin. Therefore, it is possible to deliver and store the device in a neutral configuration (i.e., a mode where temperature is not monitored), and then precisely select the start date for monitoring temperature changes.

[0092] The switch from neutral configuration to equipment configuration can be achieved by bringing the measuring instrument 5 and the bimetallic strip 3 axially closer to each other, in particular by moving the support 13 axially toward the needle 7 (or 9), especially toward the stop 55 of the needle.

[0093] about Figure 4 The device 1 can be arranged in a neutral configuration such that the stop 55 and the measuring instrument 5 are separated by a non-zero distance 61 along the axial direction. In the equipment configuration, the stop 55 of the needle 7 (or 9) is close to the measuring instrument 5 and the bimetallic strip 3, such that the measuring instrument 5 and the stop 55 are in the same axial position along the axial direction. The needle 7 (or 9) can be driven to rotate by the measuring instrument 5 in a positive (or negative) manner.

[0094] It should be noted that device 1 is designed to cover a temperature range from -15 degrees Celsius to +45 degrees Celsius, i.e., a dynamic range of 60 degrees Celsius. Considering that the angular change of the bimetallic strip is a function of temperature, a dynamic range of 60 degrees Celsius corresponds to an angle less than 180 degrees. Therefore, it is unlikely that measuring instrument 5 will complete a full revolution around the central axis A. This is why it can be said that needle 7 (or 9) is driven to rotate by measuring instrument 5 in a unique positive (or negative) direction.

[0095] Needle 7 is an indicator of the highest temperature reached by the bimetallic strip.

[0096] Needle 9 is an indicator of the lowest temperature reached by the bimetallic strip.

[0097] By arranging needles 7 and 9 on both sides of the measuring instrument 5 relative to the circumferential direction, these needles serve as indicators of the highest or lowest temperature reached by the bimetallic strip. Alternatively, by arranging needles on both sides of the measuring instrument 5, one needle serves as an indicator of the highest temperature reached by the bimetallic strip, and the other needle serves as an indicator of the lowest temperature reached by the bimetallic strip. In this case, the first needle 7 and the second needle 9 are configured to be driven by the measuring instrument 5 in different rotational modes.

[0098] It can force device 1 to switch from neutral configuration to equipment configuration in an irreversible manner.

[0099] This irreversible nature of the switching provides the technical effect that temperature monitoring cannot be interrupted once the device is equipped, meaning it allows for evidence of tampering with temperature monitoring.

[0100] dial

[0101] Device 1 may include a dial 11. The dial 11 extends around a central axis A and takes the form of a disc centered on the central axis A. The diameter of the disc is larger than the diameter of the bimetallic strip 3. The dial 11 has a central sleeve 12 surrounding the central axis A so that the axis A is free of material, and has a material-free region around the central axis A.

[0102] about Figure 1 and Figure 3 The dial 11 can carry one or two needles 7, 9, for example, by arranging the central rings 92, 94 of the needles 7, 9 around the central sleeve 12. The needles 7, 9 are movably mounted on the dial 11 and rotate about the central axis A. For example, the outer diameter of the central sleeve 12 and the inner diameter of the central rings 92, 94 of the needles 7, 9 can be adjusted to allow sufficient mechanical clearance, thereby allowing the needles 7, 9 to rotate relative to the central sleeve 12 about the central axis A.

[0103] The dial 11 includes an upper surface 35 and a lower surface 33, with the lower surface 33 facing the bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5. The thickness of the dial along the central axis A between the upper and lower surfaces can be selected to be greater than or equal to one millimeter.

[0104] Needles 7 and 9 are placed on the central sleeve 12 so that they face the upper surface 35.

[0105] Therefore, the central sleeve 12 rises axially above the upper surface 35, with a height greater than or equal to the axial thickness of the central ring. Advantageously, this rise occurs above a height corresponding to at least two axial thicknesses of the central ring, such that the sleeve 12 accommodates the central rings 92 and 94 one after another on its outer surface.

[0106] The central sleeve 12 has an inner wall that defines an inner diameter centered on the central axis A. This inner diameter can vary axially.

[0107] The inner diameter decreases from the bottom of the central sleeve 12 (i.e., axially on one side of the bimetallic strip 3) to the top of the sleeve (i.e., axially on one side of the dial 11). Then, the interior of the central sleeve 12 gradually narrows as it extends from the bottom to the top.

[0108] When the support 13 is in the reference position, the inner diameter of the lower region of the central sleeve 12 is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the hook 19.

[0109] When the support 13 is in the reference position, the inner diameter of the high region of the central sleeve 12 is:

[0110] The outer diameter of the hollow portion 18 is greater than that of rods 71 ​​and 73, and

[0111] The outer diameter is smaller than that of the hook-shaped part 19.

[0112] The outer diameter of the rod is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the rod between the hook-shaped part 19 and the distal end 20 of the rods 71 ​​and 73.

[0113] Between the lower and higher regions of sleeve 12, sleeve 12 has a transition region where the inner diameter gradually decreases. This decrease can advantageously correspond to the decrease in the outer diameter of rods 71, 73 between hook 19 and the distal end 20 of rods 71, 73.

[0114] In the neutral configuration, the dial 11 is not placed within the hollow portion 18 of the rods 71 ​​and 73 of the support member 13. The dial 11 can remain in contact with the hook-shaped member 19, and more specifically, the hook-shaped member 19 can abut against the central sleeve 12 at the location of the transition region. Therefore, the transition region of the central sleeve 12 blocks the rod at the location of the hook-shaped member 19. The rod is held within the central sleeve 12 of the dial 11. In particular, the distal ends 20 of the rods 71 ​​and 73 can extend to the high portion of the sleeve, beyond the transition region. The distal ends 20 of the rods 71 ​​and 73 can abut against the upper end of the central sleeve 12 opposite to the bimetallic strip 3.

[0115] The equipment configuration can specifically correspond to the case where the dial 11 is placed in the hollow portion 18 of the rods 71 ​​and 73 of the support member 13. Then, the dial 11 is held between the support member 90 and the hook member 19 of the rods 71 ​​and 73.

[0116] Switching from the neutral configuration to the equipment configuration can be achieved specifically by moving the support 13 along the central axis A toward the dial 11. The bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5 are supported by the support 13 toward the dial 11. The distal ends 20 of the rods 71 ​​and 73 can slide through the central sleeve 12 of the dial 11 until the central sleeve 12 contacts the hook 19. Specifically, the hook 19 can be abutted in the central sleeve 12 at a transition area. The operator can then apply a slight force to press the transition area of ​​the central sleeve 12 against the hook 19 in the direction of the platform 69, or equivalently, to press the hook 19 against the transition area in the central sleeve 12 in the direction opposite to the bimetallic strip 3. Under this force, the rods 71 ​​and 73 of the measuring instrument move closer to each other, and the support 13 is in a stressed position. Since the central sleeve 12 is no longer blocked by the hook 19, it moves closer to the platform 69, all the way to the region of the hollow portion 18 of the rods 71 ​​and 73. The hook 19 contacts the inner wall of the central sleeve of the dial, which holds the support 13 and the rods 71 ​​and 73 in the stressed position. The hook 19 eventually extends out of the central sleeve 12. Then, they no longer contact the inner wall of the central sleeve 12 of the dial 11. The support 13 and the rods 71 ​​and 73 return to the reference position. The hook 19 extends radially outward and forms an axial abutment for the central sleeve 12. The central sleeve 12 of the dial 11 is then held between the platform 69 and the hook 19 by the hook 19. When the rods 71 ​​and 73 have a support 90 axially located between the nozzles 86, 88 and the hollow portion 18, this support can define an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the lower portion of the central sleeve 12 of the dial 11. The rod support 90 prevents the central sleeve 12 from axially translating toward the platform 69. Then, the central sleeve 12 of the dial 11 is blocked on one hand by the rod support 90 toward the platform 69, and on the other hand by the hook 19 in another way.

[0117] During this movement, the support 13 elastically deforms, particularly the hook 19 and the rods 71, 73, which elastically deform from the reference position to the stressed position and then return to the reference position. During this movement, the hook 19 passes through the central sleeve 12 and is attached to the dial 11.

[0118] It is the deformation of the hook-shaped member 19 that makes the switch from the neutral configuration to the equipped configuration irreversible. It should be noted that other implementations can achieve this irreversibility. For example, the dial 11 can have an elastically deformable portion, particularly at the location of the central sleeve 12.

[0119] Needle stop and drive

[0120] The stop 55 of needles 7 and 9 extends through the dial 11, for example through through the through slots 27 and 29 of the dial, toward the bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5. The slots 27 and 29 can extend through the dial 11 from the upper surface 35 to the lower surface 33 in an axial direction parallel to the central axis A. The stop 55 extends axially toward the bimetallic strip 3 beyond the lower surface 33 of the dial 13. The length of the stop 55 extending from the lower surface 33 toward the bimetallic strip is between 1 and 2 mm, for example, 1.7 mm. Therefore, a distance 57 separating the lower surface 33 and the stop 55 can be defined. Figure 4 As shown, distance 57 can be more specifically defined between the lower surface 33 and the end of the stop 55 that is axially furthest from the lower surface 33. This distance includes a range of 1 mm and 2 mm, for example, 1.7 mm.

[0121] In the neutral configuration of device 1, the lower surface 33 of the measuring instrument 5 and the dial 11 can be separated by a distance 59, which is greater than a distance 57. For example... Figure 4 As shown, distance 59 can be more specifically defined between the lower surface 33 and the upper wall of the measuring instrument 5 facing the dial 11. The stop 55 and the measuring instrument 5 are separated by a distance 61 in the axial direction, such that the stop 55 is located axially between the lower surface 33 and the measuring instrument 5. This distance 61 can be optionally included between 0.5 mm and 1 mm, for example, 0.6 mm. This neutral configuration also corresponds to... Figure 1 In this neutral configuration, the measuring instrument 5 and the stop 55 extend axially over a non-overlapping area. Furthermore, regardless of its rotational movement, the measuring instrument 5 does not contact the stop 55, cannot push the stop, and thus causes the needle 7 to move.

[0122] In equipment configuration, and with Figure 3 Relatedly, the distance 63 between the lower surface 33 of the dial 11 and the measuring instrument 5 is less than or equal to the distance 57 between the lower surface and the stop. In this case, the measuring instrument 5 and the stop 55 extend axially over an area with non-zero overlap. Furthermore, the measuring instrument 5 can rotate to contact the stop 55, push the stop, and thus set the needle 7 to move.

[0123] Therefore, the axial displacement of the support 13, bimetallic strip, and measuring instrument 5 between the neutral configuration and the equipment configuration is greater than or equal to the length 61 by which the stop 55 and the measuring instrument 5 are axially separated in the neutral configuration. This axial displacement corresponds to the axial displacement of the hook 19 during the switch from the neutral configuration to the equipment configuration. This axial displacement can be selected to be equal to 2 mm, for example, equal to 2.1 mm.

[0124] Claw system

[0125] Needles 7 and 9 are movably mounted on the dial 11 about the central axis A. More specifically, needles 7 and 9 can be movably rotated about the central axis A relative to the central sleeve 12.

[0126] When device 1 is in the equipment configuration, needles 7 and 9 are set to rotate by measuring instrument 5. This rotation setting is only performed in one rotation mode, and measuring instrument 5 can only push the needles in one mode.

[0127] Needles 7 and 9 have a stop 55 that passes through slots 27 and 29 through the dial 11. The slots 27 and 29 extend circumferentially about an axis to allow the stop 55 to rotate about the central axis A in the dial 11.

[0128] Needles 7 and 9 can also be movably mounted on dial 11 in a single rotational manner about an axis along the axial direction. There are several possibilities to prevent the rotation of needles 7 and 9.

[0129] For example, the slots 27, 29 of the dial 11 have an asymmetrical toothed shape, which is configured to contact the pawl 31 carried by the pins 7, 9 at the position of the stop 55. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The system formed by these tooth shapes and jaws allows for the restriction of the rotation of needles 7 and 9. Needles 7 and 9 are then configured to rotate in only one mode. Jaw 31 may, for example, include three identical teeth projecting toward the central axis A, and slots 27 and 29 may, for example, have numerous toothed notches complementary to the teeth of jaw 31.

[0130] This chuck system makes the movement of the needle irreversible: once the needle is pushed in one way and moved at least one additional step in the slot, it cannot be moved in the opposite way unless it is removed from the dial and reinstalled.

[0131] Current temperature indication

[0132] The dial 11 has a groove 37 that passes through the dial 11 from the upper surface 35 to the lower surface 33 in an axial direction parallel to the central axis A. The groove 37 thus allows viewing through the dial 11. The device 1 is configured such that the measuring instrument 5 faces the groove 37 in the axial direction.

[0133] An operator positioned above the dial 11 (i.e., facing the upper surface 35 of the dial 11) can see the measuring instrument 5 through the groove 37. He can see the upper wall of the measuring instrument 5, including the temperature markings 39 that the operator can identify.

[0134] Compared to Figure 1 and Figure 5Groove 37 extends circumferentially around the central axis A. Groove 37 and slots 27 and 29 extend around the central axis A in non-overlapping angular sectors around axis A.

[0135] The groove 37 can extend along the circumferential direction at an angle centered on axis A, corresponding to the angular change of the bimetallic strip during a temperature variation of approximately 20 degrees Celsius. This range can advantageously be included between 20 and 25 degrees. If the angular change is chosen as a function of temperature change (equal to an angle of 2.8 degrees per degree Celsius), then the circumferential range of the groove 37 is approximately 56 degrees. This particularly corresponds to the case where the device 1 is fixed to a bottle during operation, which is at a temperature close to 14 degrees Celsius, within a range of approximately 22 degrees Celsius, and therefore generally can be well stored between 3 and 25 degrees Celsius. It should be noted that this is well compatible with the fact that the device 1 covers a wider temperature range including between -15 and +45 degrees Celsius, to store the temperature extremes within this wider range in memory.

[0136] The position of temperature marker 39 relative to groove 37 allows the operator to estimate the current temperature.

[0137] For ease of this estimation, refer to Figure 5 The dial 11 may include thermal graduations 100 and 102 around a groove 37. The thermal graduations extend circumferentially along the groove about an axis, with the first graduation 100 located between the central axis A and the groove 37, and the groove 37 located between the first graduation 100 and the second graduation 102. The first graduation 100 may correspond to a temperature scale in degrees Celsius. The second graduation 101 may correspond to a temperature scale in degrees Fahrenheit.

[0138] Temperature mark 39 is set on the upper wall of measuring instrument 5, and thermal scales 100 and 102 are set on dial 11, such that the radial direction passing through the central axis and temperature mark 39 intersects with thermal scales 100 and 102 at the temperature value of the current temperature value.

[0139] The temperature mark 39 is advantageously positioned equidistant from the two side walls 79 and 81 of the measuring instrument 5. This ensures that the measuring instrument 5 is most readily visible throughout the trench 37. Conversely, if the temperature mark 39 were placed closer to either side wall 79 or 81, the measuring instrument 5 and the bimetallic strip would be visible through the trench 37, which would be unsightly.

[0140] Grooves 37 and slots 27, 29 extend around the central axis A in non-overlapping angular sectors. In the equipment configuration, when needle 7 (or 9) is at the same axial height as the sidewall 79 or 81 of measuring instrument 5, the rotating measuring instrument 5 can push needle 7 (or 9) in a positive (or negative) manner. In this case, temperature marker 39, placed at equidistant distances from the two sidewalls 79 and 81 of measuring instrument 5, is intended to occupy the angular sector that does not cover the angular sector of needle 7 (or 9).

[0141] Temperature extreme value indication

[0142] The position of needle 7 (or 9) relative to dial 11 allows the operator to read the maximum (or minimum) temperature experienced by device 1 since it was equipped.

[0143] For ease of reading and reference Figure 5 The dial 11 may include a first group 41 and a second group 43 of temperature scales surrounding the slot 27 (or 29). Each group 41, 43 extends circumferentially along the slot 27 (or 29) around the central axis A. The first group 41 is located between the central axis A and the slot 27 (or 29). The slot 27 (or 29) is located between the first group 41 and the second group 43. The first group 41 may correspond to a temperature scale in degrees Celsius. The second group 43 may correspond to a temperature scale in degrees Fahrenheit.

[0144] When the device 1 is in the equipment configuration and the measuring instrument 5 rotates under the influence of temperature changes, causing the needle 7 (or 9) to be driven by the measuring instrument 5, the needle 7 (or 9) is then placed at a specific position in the slot 27 (or 29). At a certain extreme temperature, the measuring instrument 5 stops driving the needle 7 (or 9) and rotates in a relative manner.

[0145] The needle 7 (or 9), the first group 41 of the scale, and the second group 43 of the scale are configured such that the radial direction defined by the needle 7 (or 9) intersects the first group 41 of the scale and the second group 43 of the scale at a temperature value that is the extreme temperature at which the last movement of the needle 7 (or 9) occurs.

[0146] As described above, needle 7 (or 9) may include a first end 47 and a second end 49, both pointing in the same radial direction. Similarly, needle 7 (or 9) may include an inner portion 51 forming a first loop and an outer portion 53 forming a second loop. In this case, the radial direction defined by needle 7 (or 9) may be the radial direction defined by the first end 47 and the second end 49. If this radial direction passes through one of the first set 41 or the second set 43 of the scale, then the scale may advantageously be surrounded by the first loop of the inner portion 51 or the second loop of the outer portion 53. Therefore, the operator can more easily estimate the extreme temperature that caused the last movement of needle 7 (or 9).

[0147] Each loop of the inner portion 51 and the outer portion 53 can extend in a radial plane, like an arc, with an angle range of approximately 220°. This allows for the identification of extreme temperature values ​​exceeding 180 degrees and limits reading errors.

[0148] The slot 27 (or 29) may extend circumferentially at an angle centered on axis A, corresponding to the angular change of the bimetallic strip during a temperature variation of approximately 20 degrees Celsius. This range may advantageously be included between 20 and 25 degrees. If the angular change is chosen as a function of temperature change (equal to an angle of 2.8 degrees per degree Celsius), then the circumferential range of the slot 27 (or 29) is an angle of 56 degrees. If the device 1 is intended in operation to be fixed to a bottle preferably stored at a temperature close to 14 degrees Celsius, in the range of +22 degrees Celsius, and therefore typically between +3 and +25 degrees Celsius, then a slot 27 (or 29) corresponding to a maximum experienced temperature range including between +25 and +47 degrees Celsius and / or a minimum experienced temperature range including between +5 and -17 degrees Celsius or between +3 and -15 degrees Celsius can be provided.

[0149] When device 1 includes two needles 7 and 9, dial 11 includes two slots 27 and 29. Advantageously, groove 37, first slot 27 and second slot 29 are evenly distributed at an angle around a central axis A. Groove 37 and the two slots 27 and 29 can be paired and centered on a radial direction forming a 120-degree angle.

[0150] Box

[0151] The device 1 may include a housing 15 defining a housing 16 configured to receive a bimetallic strip 3 and a measuring instrument 5. The housing 15 extends along a central axis A at a height greater than the sum of the axial height of the bimetallic strip and the axial height of the measuring instrument 5. The housing 15 includes a peripheral wall 22 extending radially about the central axis A to radially surround the bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5. The housing 15 includes a lower wall 21. The bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5 are axially located between the lower wall 21 and the dial 11.

[0152] The housing 16 is defined by a lower wall 21 and a peripheral wall 22. The housing 16 can be closed by a dial 11. For this purpose, the peripheral wall 22 can define an edge 24 that matches the outer diameter of the dial 11. Thus, the dial 11 can be inserted into the housing and supported on the edge 24. The dial 11 can be fixed to the housing in this position.

[0153] The enclosure 15 allows for the fixed mounting of the bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5. In particular, access to the outer end of the bimetallic strip 67 (i.e., the movable and heat-sensitive part that allows the monitoring device 1 to detect temperature changes over time) becomes more difficult. This makes temperature monitoring more difficult to forge. This is even more true if the dial 11 closes the housing 16 of the enclosure 15.

[0154] The lower wall 21 defines an opening 23 that leads to the exterior of the housing 16 and the box 15. The opening 23 leaves the area passing through the central axis A without material.

[0155] The support member 13 includes a pusher 17 that extends along the central axis A through the orifice 23 and through the lower wall 21.

[0156] The pusher 17 extends on the opposite side of the platform 69 relative to rods 71 ​​and 73. The pusher 17 extends from the platform 69 along the central axis A. The radial length of the pusher is less than the radial length of the platform 69.

[0157] The pusher 17 and the orifice 23 have shapes in cross-section (i.e., in the radial plane) that are complementary to the axial direction. In this way, the pusher 17 can be inserted into the orifice 23 and slide through the orifice 23 along the central axis A. In other words, the support 13 can move relative to the housing 13 along the central axis A, and doing so changes the distance along the central axis A between the bimetallic strip 3 and the dial 11.

[0158] Because the radial length of the pusher is less than the radial length of the platform 69, the platform 69 cannot pass through the orifice 23. When the platform abuts against the lower wall 21, the platform 69 restricts the movement of the pusher 17 along the central axis by displacement. When the platform abuts against the lower wall 21, the device is in a neutral configuration.

[0159] By acting on the pusher 17, the device can be switched from a neutral configuration to an equipped configuration. More specifically, if the pusher 17 is pressed to move the support 13 toward the dial, the hook 19 abuts against the inner support of the central sleeve 12 of the dial 11. Under sufficient force, the support 13 deforms to its stressed position, the hook 19 moves on one side of the upper surface of the dial 11, and the device switches to the equipped configuration. In the equipped configuration, the pusher 17 extends through the orifice. Mechanical clearance can be ensured to avoid overly restricting the device in the neutral configuration. For this purpose, a distance of less than 0.5 mm, for example 0.2 mm, can be provided between the first axial position of the support 13 (where the platform abuts against the lower wall 21) and the second axial position of the support (where the hook abuts against the inner side of the central sleeve 12).

[0160] The complementary shapes of the pusher 17 and the orifice 23 do not have rotational symmetry with respect to the central axis A. For example, regarding Figure 2 The shape is a disk centered on the central axis A, which includes a flat portion 25 to avoid rotational symmetry. In this way, the pusher 17 cannot rotate relative to the central axis A within the orifice 23. The angular position of the support 13 about the central axis A is fixed relative to the housing 15. This means that the inner end 65 of the bimetallic strip 3 has an angular position about the central axis A that is fixed relative to the housing 15. This means that the outer end 67 of the bimetallic strip 3 has an angular position about the central axis A that is movable relative to the housing 15, and this angular position depends only on temperature. Since the pusher 17 extends through the orifice in either the neutral or mounted configuration, rotation of the pusher 17 relative to the housing 15 is blocked in both configurations. In the mounted configuration, the pusher 17 does not necessarily protrude beyond the outside of the housing 15. On the other hand, the pusher 17 extends sufficiently through the lower wall 21 facing the orifice 23, such that in the mounted configuration, the pusher is prevented from rotating about the central axis A by the housing 15.

[0161] The lower wall 21 may include:

[0162] - Peripheral portion 21A, which extends from peripheral wall 22 toward central axis A orthogonally to central axis A, and

[0163] - The central portion 21B directly surrounds the orifice 23 and is located radially between the peripheral portion and the central axis A.

[0164] Advantageously, and relative to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The lower wall 21 has a central recess facing the bimetallic strip 3, such that the central portion 21B is closer to the dial 11 in the axial direction than the peripheral portion 21A.

[0165] The recess is large enough that, in the neutral configuration, the axial end of the pusher 17 is located between the peripheral portion 21A and the dial 11. In other words, in the neutral configuration, the end of the pusher 17 furthest from the bimetallic strip 3 is positioned along the central axis A, closer to the bimetallic strip 3 than the end of the lower wall 21 furthest from the bimetallic strip 3. In other words, relative to... Figure 1 By extending the peripheral portion 21A toward the central axis A with a virtual surface 21C orthogonal to the axis A, the pusher 17 and the central portion 21B are located between the virtual surface 21C and the bimetallic strip 3.

[0166] In a neutral configuration, the pusher 17 can protrude beyond the outer side of the lower wall 21, which means there is an unnecessary equipment risk when handling the device. The recess can limit this risk. In particular, by placing the device on the surface through contact between the lower wall 21 and the surface, the recess ensures that it only contacts the peripheral portion 21A. The pusher 17 does not contact the surface.

[0167] Optionally, one of the housing 15 and the dial 11 may include a groove extending circumferentially to the central axis A, and the other of the housing and the dial includes teeth configured to engage with the groove to fix an angular position between the housing and the dial. The groove specifically includes a plurality of notches, each complementary to a tooth. The teeth can be positioned in each notch corresponding to a specific angular position of the housing 15 relative to the dial 11. Therefore, this angular position can be set before the dial 11 and the housing 15 are rigidly fixed together. For example, the groove includes 11 notches, each separated by an angle of 1.4 degrees centered on the central axis A.

[0168] This possibility allows for adjustment of the position of the different thermal scales contained in the dial 11 relative to the bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5.

[0169] The installation of device 1 can begin with the following steps: Install the bimetallic strip 3 in the support 13 such that the inner end 65 of the bimetallic strip slides into the gap between the two rods 71, 73. Then, install the measuring instrument 5 on the bimetallic strip 3 such that the baffles 83, 85 surround the outer end 67 of the bimetallic strip 3. Place the support 13 in the housing 15 such that the pusher 17 is inserted into the orifice 23 and the platform 69 contacts the lower wall 21 of the housing 15. Then, place the dial 11 above the measuring instrument 5 such that the rods 71, 73 are inserted into the central sleeve 12. Adjust the dial 11 so that the current temperature mark 39 of the measuring instrument 5 is visible through the groove 37. The temperature of all these components is stabilized at a reference temperature, for example, 20 degrees Celsius. Then, adjust the angular position of the dial 11 relative to the housing 15 by aligning the position of the current temperature mark 39 with the scale of the reference temperature. Finally, secure the dial 11 to the housing 15.

[0170] Transparent sealing components

[0171] The device 1 can be advantageously supplemented by a component 26 made of transparent material facing the dial 11, which is enclosed between the housing 15 and the transparent material component 26.

[0172] Component 26 may be in the form of a disc, with its center passing through the central axis A. The upper wall of the disc (i.e., the wall opposite to the dial 11) may have an outwardly curved portion centered on the central axis A. Component 26 completely covers the dial 11 and advantageously extends beyond the dial. In other words, the diameter of component 26 is larger than the diameter of the dial 11. In particular, the diameter of component 26 may be equal to or almost equal to the outer diameter of the housing 15. Here, "almost equal" means a relative deviation of 5% or 2%. The periphery of component 26 may be used to fix the component to the housing 15, particularly by ultrasonic welding.

[0173] This welding is irreversible because once welded, component 26 and housing 15 can only be separated by at least partially breaking housing 15 and / or component 26. If this occurs, an observer can easily see that component 26 and housing 15 have been separated from each other.

[0174] Regarding this welding step, advantageously, the dial 11, component 26, needles 7 and 9, measuring instrument 5, and support 13 are composed of different materials, particularly different plastic materials. In this way, the ultrasonic waves used to weld component 26 to housing 15 will be unable to weld the dial 11, needles 7 and 9, and support 13 to each other or to component 26 and / or housing 15. For example, it can be specifically chosen that:

[0175] - Box 15 made of polycarbonate

[0176] - Component 26 made of polycarbonate

[0177] - The first needle, made of POM, is advantageously positioned between the other needle and the dial.

[0178] - The second needle, made of PA66, is advantageously located between the first needle and component 26.

[0179] - Dial 11 made of PBT

[0180] - Support member 13 made of POM, and

[0181] - Measuring instrument 5 made of PA66 and 30% glass fiber.

[0182] Like PBT, PA66 is not easily soldered with polycarbonate or POM.

[0183] An opaque ring, such as a metal ring (e.g., anodized aluminum), can be added to cover the welded area of ​​component 26. Component 26 may have a lower wall facing the dial, which follows the release of the dial, needles, and support 13. In particular, the lower wall may have a central recess to receive the distal ends 20 of the rods 71, 73. The lower wall may be in close contact with the needles 7, 9, i.e., the axial distance separating the lower wall from the needles is less than or equal to 2 mm.

[0184] The presence of component 26 makes the areas of the central sleeve 12 that contact the hook-shaped parts 19, needles 7, and 9 inaccessible, and more importantly, the areas that contact the bimetallic strip 3 and the measuring instrument 5 are also inaccessible. Component 26 seals the device 1 and ensures its inviolability.

[0185] The installation of device 1 (the first step of which has been described above) can continue with the following steps.

[0186] One or more needles 7, 9 are mounted on the outside of sleeve 12, above the dial. For each needle, a stop 55 is inserted through the slot, and the needle is positioned as close as possible to the radial plane of measuring instrument 5. This corresponds to the hot scale of the slot closest to 15 degrees Celsius. A component 26 made of transparent material is placed against housing 15 to cover the dial 11 and needles 7, 9. Component 26 is welded to housing 15. An opaque annular piece is placed around the perimeter of component 26 to conceal the welded area.

[0187] At the end of installation, device 1 is in a neutral configuration. It is ready to be fitted by pressure on pusher 17.

[0188] Once device 1 is equipped, the pad can be placed against housing 15 and pusher 17 to seal the position of pusher 17.

[0189] Alternatively, the device 1 can be fitted when it is adhered to an object (e.g., a bottle). The device 1 is inserted into a housing disposed within the object, such that the dial is visible from the outside. The housing includes a support configured to face the pusher 17. The housing has edges against which the casing is secured; these edges only come into contact with the casing after the support contacts the pusher 17 and moves the pusher 17 toward the dial 11 to fit the device. The casing then contacts the edges and can be secured to the object. In this option, securing the device to the object and fitting it are performed simultaneously.

[0190] Methods for indicating extreme temperatures

[0191] The device 1 described so far allows for the implementation of a method for indicating extreme temperatures, which includes an irreversible switch from a neutral configuration to an equipment configuration:

[0192] In this neutral configuration, needles 7 and 9 remain stationary while the measuring instrument 5 is driven to rotate by the bimetallic strip 3.

[0193] - In this equipment configuration, needles 7 and 9 are driven to rotate by the measuring instrument.

[0194] Needles 7 and 9 can be mounted on the dial 11, allowing them to move relative to the dial 11 about axis A. In this case, switching from the neutral configuration to the equipped configuration involves displacement along the central axis A of the support 13 of the bimetallic strip 3 toward the dial 11, and attaching the hook 19 to the dial 11 by elastic deformation.

[0195] The displacement can be specifically configured such that the distance between the measuring instrument 5 and the lower surface 3 of the dial 11 along the axial direction parallel to the axis is less than or equal to the distance between the stop 55 of the needles 7 and 9 and the lower surface 33 along the axial direction, the lower surface 33 facing the bimetallic strip 3, and the stop 55 located between the dial 11 and the bimetallic strip 3.

Claims

1. A device (1) for indicating extreme temperature values, comprising: - Bimetallic strip (3) - Measuring instrument (5), which is configured to be driven to rotate by the bimetallic strip (3), and -Needle (7, 9) The device (1) is arranged to irreversibly switch from a neutral configuration to an equipped configuration: In the neutral configuration, the needles (7, 9) remain stationary during the movement of the measuring instrument. - In the equipment configuration, the needle (7, 9) is driven to rotate by the measuring instrument.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, comprising: - A dial (11), on which the needles (7, 9) are movably mounted, and rotate about axis (A), and - A support (13) for the bimetallic strip (3), the support (13) including a hook (19) such that when the device (1) switches from the neutral configuration to the equipment configuration, the support (13) moves along the axis (A) toward the dial (11), and the hook (19) elastically deforms to attach to the dial (11).

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The dial (11) includes a disk extending about the axis (A) and including an upper surface (35) and a lower surface (33), the lower surface (33) facing the bimetallic strip (3), the disk having slots (27, 29) extending circumferentially about the axis, the slots (27, 29) passing through the dial (11) from the upper surface (35) to the lower surface (33) in an axial direction parallel to the axis (A), the needles (7, 9) passing through the dial (11) in the axial direction and protruding from the lower surface (33) of the dial (11) to form a stop (55), the stop (55) being located between the dial (11) and the bimetallic strip (3) in the axial direction, the device (1) being configured as follows: -So that, in the neutral configuration, the stop (55) and the measuring instrument (5) are separated along the axial direction, such that the stop (55) is located between the lower surface (33) and the measuring instrument (5) along the axial direction, and - To switch from the neutral configuration to the equipment configuration by shifting the support (13), the bimetallic strip (3) and the measuring instrument (5) toward the dial (11) along the axial direction, such that the distance (63) separating the lower surface (33) and the measuring instrument (5) along the axial direction is less than or equal to the distance (57) separating the lower surface (33) and the stop (55).

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The needles (7, 9) are movably mounted on the dial (11) in a single rotational manner about axis (A). Advantageously, the needles (7, 9) include a claw (31), and the slots (27, 29) and the claws (31) contact each other according to an asymmetrical tooth shape.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein, The dial (11) has a groove (37) extending through the dial (11) from the upper surface (35) to the lower surface (33) along the axial direction. The groove (37) extends in a circumferential direction around the axis (A) such that the measuring instrument (5) faces the groove (37) along the axial direction. The groove (37) and the slots (27, 29) extend in non-overlapping angular sectors around the axis (A).

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The upper surface (35) includes a first group (41) of temperature scales and a second group (43) of temperature scales, each group (41, 43) extending circumferentially around the axis (A) along the slots (27, 29), the first group (41) being located between the axis (A) and the slots (27, 29), the slots (27, 29) being located between the first group (41) and the second group (43), and the needles (7, 9) comprising: - A circumferential portion (45) extending circumferentially toward the slots (27, 29), the circumferential portion (45) including a first end (49) in the direction of the first group (41) and a second end (47) in the direction of the second group (43), the first end (49) and the second end (47) defining the same radial direction relative to the axis (A). -The inner part (51), which extends toward the first set (41) of the scale and forms the first loop, - The outer part (53), which extends toward the second group (43) of the scale and forms a second loop, The upper surface (35) and the needles (7, 9) are configured such that when the radial direction passes through one of the scales, one of the scales is surrounded by the first loop or the second loop.

7. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The needles (7, 9) are first needles (7, 9), and the device includes a second needle (9, 7). The first needle (7, 9) and the second needle (9, 7) are configured to be driven by the measuring instrument (5) in different rotational modes.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, which is dependent on claim 5, wherein, The slots (27, 29) are first slots (27, 29), the dial (11) has second slots (29, 27) extending circumferentially around the axis, the groove (37), the first slots (27, 29) and the second slots (29, 27) are evenly angularly distributed around the axis (A), and the second pin (9, 7) advantageously includes a second claw, the second slot and the second claw contacting each other according to an asymmetrical tooth shape.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 8, which are dependent on claim 2, comprises a housing (15) defining a shell (16) enclosed by the dial (11), the bimetallic strip (3) and the measuring instrument (5) being located in the shell (16), the housing (15) including a lower wall (21), the bimetallic strip (3) being axially located between the dial (11) and the lower wall (21), the lower wall (21) defining an opening (23) leading to the shell (16) and the outside of the housing (15), the support (13) including a pusher (17) extending along the axis (A) through the opening (23) through the lower wall (21), the pusher (17) and the opening (23) having a cross-sectional shape complementary to the axial direction, the complementary shape not having rotational symmetry with respect to the axis (A).

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The lower wall (21) has a central recess pointing toward the bimetallic strip (3) such that, in the neutral configuration, the end of the pusher (17) that is furthest from the bimetallic strip (3) along the central axis (A) is closer to the bimetallic strip (3) than the end of the lower wall (21) that is furthest from the bimetallic strip (3).

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 10, wherein, One of the housing (15) and the dial (11) includes a groove extending in the circumferential direction to the axis (A), and the other of the housing (15) and the dial (11) includes teeth configured to engage with the groove in order to fix the angular position between the housing (15) and the dial (11).

12. The device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, comprising a member (26) made of transparent material facing the dial (11), the dial (11) being enclosed between the housing (15) and the transparent material member (26).

13. A method for indicating extreme temperatures, comprising an irreversible switch from a neutral configuration to an equipment configuration: - In the neutral configuration, the needles (7, 9) remain stationary while the measuring instrument (5) is driven to rotate by the bimetallic strip (3). - In the equipment configuration, the needle (7, 9) is driven to rotate by the measuring instrument (5).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The needles (7, 9) are mounted on the dial (11) such that the needles can move relative to the dial (11) about an axis (A). Switching from the neutral configuration to the equipment configuration includes displacement toward the dial (11) along the axis of the support (13) of the bimetallic strip (3), and attachment of the hook (19) of the support (13) to the dial (11) by the elastic deformation of the hook (19).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The displacement of the support (13) is configured such that the distance between the measuring instrument (5) and the lower surface (33) of the dial (11) along an axial direction parallel to the axis (A) is less than or equal to the distance between the stop (55) of the needle (7, 9) and the lower surface (33) along the axial direction, the lower surface (33) facing the bimetallic strip (3), the stop (55) being located between the dial (11) and the bimetallic strip (3).

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