Railway installation comprising means for activating and deactivating at least one device

Abstract

The invention relates to a railway installation comprising a fluid transport network, a device connected to the fluid transport network and configured to be activated or deactivated depending on upper and lower threshold values of the fluid pressure, and a device (9) for activating and deactivating the device, connected to the network at the inlet and to the device at the outlet; the device (9) being configured to adopt a first configuration in which the device is deactivated or activated when the pressure fluid is below the lower threshold value or below the upper threshold value, a second configuration in which the device is activated or deactivated when the pressure fluid reaches the upper threshold value, and a third configuration in which the device is activated or deactivated when the fluid is below the upper threshold value and above an intermediate pressure threshold value greater than the lower threshold value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a railway facility comprising a fluid transport network, at least one device connected to the fluid transport network and configured to be activated or deactivated according to an upper fluid pressure threshold and a lower fluid pressure threshold, and an activation and deactivation device for activating and deactivating said at least one device, said activation and deactivation device being connected to the fluid transport network at an inlet and to said at least one device at an outlet.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a railway vehicle including such a facility.

[0003] The present invention also relates to an activation and deactivation device for activating and deactivating at least one device, configured to be connected to a fluid delivery network at an inlet and to the at least one device at an outlet. Background Technology

[0004] Railway vehicles may be equipped with railway facilities, which include a fluid transport network and multiple devices configured to operate the facilities and interconnected within the fluid transport network.

[0005] Different devices can operate at defined fluid pressures. In particular, it may be necessary to activate and / or deactivate devices based on upper and lower fluid pressure thresholds.

[0006] An example of such equipment is a compressor configured to supply power to the main duct or main pipe of a railway vehicle, or to an auxiliary storage tank.

[0007] Therefore, the facility is provided with at least one activation and deactivation device configured to activate and / or deactivate the device based on a pressure gradient detected by the device, the pressure gradient being either positive or negative.

[0008] At the inlet, the activation and deactivation device is connected to the fluid delivery network; at the outlet, the activation and deactivation device is connected to the equipment.

[0009] Therefore, the activation and deactivation device can be configured to activate the device when the fluid pressure reaches an upper limit threshold from a lower pressure and deactivate the device when the fluid pressure reaches a lower limit threshold from a higher pressure, or vice versa.

[0010] Specifically, such activation and deactivation device may include: a body defining a pressure chamber, a piston movable inside the pressure chamber against the action of a spring member, an end rod mounted on the movable piston and protruding from the pressure chamber, and a switch mounted opposite the end rod.

[0011] When the pressure in the pressure chamber increases, the piston moves against the force applied by the spring member, and the end rod approaches the switch until it contacts the switch and triggers the switch to activate or deactivate the device.

[0012] Conversely, when the pressure in the pressure chamber decreases, the piston moves due to the action of the spring member, and the end rod moves away from the switch and disconnects it, thereby deactivating or activating the device.

[0013] Therefore, the activation and deactivation device is configured such that: when the pressure fluid, for example, exceeds a first threshold of fluid pressure, a first configuration is adopted, in which the piston and the end rod are each in an extended position, wherein the end rod is in contact with the actuator; and when the pressure fluid, for example, drops below a second threshold of fluid pressure, a second configuration is adopted, in which the piston and the end rod are each in a retracted position, wherein the end rod is away from the actuator. Summary of the Invention

[0014] The present invention aims to provide a railway facility having activation and deactivation devices of the above type, which has particularly excellent performance while remaining convenient and economical.

[0015] Therefore, according to a first aspect, the object of the present invention is a railway facility comprising a fluid transport network, at least one device connected to the fluid transport network and configured to be activated or deactivated based on an upper fluid pressure threshold and a lower fluid pressure threshold, and an activation and deactivation device for activating and deactivating the at least one device, the activation and deactivation device being connected to the fluid transport network at an inlet and to the at least one device at an outlet; the activation and deactivation device comprising: - Activate and deactivate components, the activation and deactivation components being connected to the at least one device; - Body, the body including a lower chamber; - A control member movably disposed in the lower chamber and defining, together with the body, a pressure chamber connected to the fluid delivery network, the control member further having an actuating rod including an end portion extending out of the lower chamber, the control member being configured to move in the lower chamber between a first position and a second position of the control member under the action of a pressurized fluid, in the first position the activation and deactivation member being deactivated or activated, and in the second position the activation and deactivation member being activated or deactivated; - A contact mechanism configured such that the end portion of the actuating rod moves between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the contact mechanism disconnects or connects the activation and deactivation member, and in the second position the contact mechanism connects or disconnects the activation and deactivation member; The activation and deactivation device is configured as follows: - When the pressure fluid is below the lower limit threshold or the upper limit threshold, a first configuration is adopted, in which the control member and the contact mechanism are in their respective first positions or between their respective first and second positions; - When the pressure fluid reaches the upper limit threshold of the fluid pressure, a second configuration is adopted, in which the control member and the contact mechanism are in their respective second positions; The activation and deactivation device further includes a holding mechanism and a return mechanism. The holding mechanism is configured to hold the contact mechanism in a second position, and the return mechanism is configured to move the contact mechanism from the second position where the contact mechanism is held to its first position. Furthermore, the activation and deactivation device is configured to adopt a third configuration when the pressure fluid is below the upper limit threshold of the fluid pressure and above the middle threshold of the fluid pressure, wherein the middle threshold of the fluid pressure is greater than the lower limit threshold of the fluid pressure. In the third configuration, the control member is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position of the control member, and the holding mechanism resists the action of the return mechanism and holds the contact mechanism in the second position of the contact mechanism.

[0016] In the facility according to the invention, the contact mechanism can be held in its second position, which corresponds to the on or off of the activation and deactivation of the member, as long as the pressure value of the pressure fluid is below the upper threshold but above or equal to the middle threshold.

[0017] With the help of activation and deactivation devices, the connection or disconnection will not occur once the pressure value of the pressure fluid is below the upper limit threshold.

[0018] However, when the pressure fluid is below the intermediate threshold, the activation and deactivation device is in its first configuration.

[0019] In other words, once the pressure of the pressure fluid falls below the intermediate threshold, the retaining mechanism no longer resists the return member to hold the contact member in its second position; instead, the return member returns the contact member to its first position.

[0020] The following describes the preferred, simple, convenient and economical features of the railway facility according to the present invention.

[0021] The contact mechanism is mechanically connected to the end portion of the actuating rod and is at least partially slidably mounted on the end portion and / or pivotally mounted relative to the end portion.

[0022] The return mechanism includes an upper stop member disposed on the end portion of the actuating rod and configured to directly or indirectly drive the contact mechanism from its second position to its first position via contact.

[0023] The upper stop member is constructed to directly abut against the contact mechanism in order to move the contact mechanism from its second position to its first position.

[0024] The return mechanism also includes at least one intermediate member, to which an upper stop member acts to drive the contact mechanism from its second position to its first position by contact.

[0025] The intermediate component is formed by a return spring and / or a spacer and / or a return lever.

[0026] The contact mechanism includes a sleeve that is translatably movable at the end portion of the actuating rod.

[0027] The contact mechanism includes a lever that is rotatably movable relative to the body and is translatably and rotatably connected to the end portion of the actuating rod.

[0028] The activation and deactivation device includes a lower stop member disposed on the end portion of the actuating rod and configured to move the contact mechanism from its first position to its second position by contact.

[0029] The retaining mechanism includes at least one elastic element configured to apply an elastic retaining force to the contact mechanism directly or indirectly, such that the elastic element retains the contact mechanism in its second position in a second configuration and a third configuration of activating and deactivating the device.

[0030] The retaining mechanism further includes a retainer that is forceped by the at least one elastic element, and the contacting mechanism includes a complementary retaining member configured to cooperate with the retainer of the retaining mechanism in a second and a third configuration of activating and deactivating the device.

[0031] The at least one elastic element is configured to have a first stable position and a second stable position, in the first stable position the at least one elastic element applies force to the contact mechanism away from its second position, and in the second stable position the at least one elastic element applies force to the contact mechanism in its second position, the at least one elastic element also having a flip position for switching from one of the first stable position and the second stable position of the elastic element to the other by an external force.

[0032] The contact mechanism includes an end, and the holding mechanism includes a shoe block disposed between the at least one elastic element and the end of the contact mechanism. The shoe block and the end are configured to hold the contact mechanism in a second position in a second and third configuration of activating and deactivating the device by friction and / or by a stop engagement.

[0033] The body of the activation and deactivation device includes a secondary cavity, and a holding mechanism is formed by a holding piston movably arranged in the secondary cavity and defining a secondary pressure chamber connected to a fluid delivery network together with the body. The holding piston is provided with a holding piston rod, which is configured on one hand to form a position stop when the contact mechanism is in its second position, and on the other hand to retract when the pressure value of the pressure fluid is lower than an intermediate threshold.

[0034] The return component may also include an intermediate component disposed between one of the first stop and the second stop and the contact component.

[0035] According to a second aspect, another object of the present invention is a railway vehicle that includes the facilities described above.

[0036] According to a third aspect, an object of the present invention also lies in an activation and deactivation device for activating and deactivating at least one device, configured to be connected at an inlet to a fluid delivery network and at an outlet to said at least one device; the activation and deactivation device includes: - Activate and deactivate components, the activation and deactivation components being connected to the at least one device; - Body, the body including a lower chamber; - A control member movably disposed in the lower chamber and defining, together with the body, a pressure chamber connected to the fluid delivery network, the control member further having an actuating rod including an end portion extending out of the lower chamber, the control member being configured to move in the lower chamber between a first position and a second position of the control member under the action of a pressurized fluid, in the first position the activation and deactivation member being deactivated or activated, and in the second position the activation and deactivation member being activated or deactivated; - A contact mechanism configured such that the end portion of the actuating rod moves between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the contact mechanism disconnects or connects the activation and deactivation member, and in the second position the contact mechanism connects or disconnects the activation and deactivation member; The activation and deactivation device is configured as follows: - When the pressure fluid is below the lower limit threshold or the upper limit threshold, a first configuration is adopted, in which the control member and the contact mechanism are in their respective first positions or between their respective first and second positions; - When the pressure fluid reaches the upper limit threshold of the fluid pressure, a second configuration is adopted, in which the control member and the contact mechanism are in their respective second positions; The activation and deactivation device further includes a holding mechanism and a return mechanism. The holding mechanism is configured to hold the contact mechanism in a second position, and the return mechanism is configured to move the contact mechanism from the second position where the contact mechanism is held to its first position. Furthermore, the activation and deactivation device is configured to adopt a third configuration when the pressure fluid is below the upper limit threshold of the fluid pressure and above the middle threshold of the fluid pressure, wherein the middle threshold of the fluid pressure is greater than the lower limit threshold of the fluid pressure, wherein the control member is in an intermediate position between the first position and the second position of the control member, and the holding mechanism resists the action of the return mechanism to hold the contact mechanism in its second position. Attached Figure Description

[0037] According to the embodiments, the invention will be well understood and its advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description given in an indicative and non-limiting manner with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 The diagram schematically represents railway facilities, which in particular include fluid transport networks containing pressurized media, railway systems including equipment, and activation and deactivation devices for activating and deactivating the equipment.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an activation and deactivation device according to an embodiment, wherein the activation and deactivation device is in a first state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure medium in the fluid delivery network is equal to a first pressure value.

[0040] Figure 3 and Figure 2 Similarly, the activation and deactivation of the device are schematically represented in a second state, in which the pressure of the pressure medium in the fluid delivery network is equal to a second pressure value that is greater than the first pressure value.

[0041] Figure 4 and Figure 2 Similarly, the activation and deactivation of the device are schematically represented in the third state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure medium in the fluid delivery network is equal to a third pressure value that is greater than the first pressure value and the second pressure value.

[0042] Figure 5 and Figure 2 Similarly, the activation and deactivation of the device are schematically represented in a fourth state, in which the pressure of the pressure medium in the fluid delivery network is equal to a fourth pressure value that is greater than the first, second, and third pressure values.

[0043] Figure 6 and Figure 2 Similarly, the activation and deactivation of the device are schematically represented in the fifth state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure medium in the fluid delivery network is equal to a fifth pressure value that is less than the fourth pressure value.

[0044] Figure 7 and Figure 2 Similarly, the activation and deactivation of the device are schematically represented in the sixth state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure medium in the fluid delivery network is equal to a sixth pressure value that is less than the fourth and fifth pressure values.

[0045] Figure 8 and Figure 2 Similarly, the activation and deactivation of the device are schematically represented in the seventh state of the device, in which the pressure of the pressure medium in the fluid delivery network is equal to a seventh pressure value that is less than the fourth, fifth, and sixth pressure values.

[0046] Figure 9 It is schematic and partially representative. Figures 2 to 8 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the activation and deactivation device, wherein the activation and deactivation device is in a first state where the device is deactivated.

[0047] Figure 10 and Figure 9 Similarly, the activation and deactivation device is schematically represented in its second state of activating the device.

[0048] Figure 11 It is schematic and partially representative. Figures 2 to 8 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the activation and deactivation device, wherein the activation and deactivation device is in a first state in which the device deactivates the equipment.

[0049] Figure 12 and Figure 11 Similarly, the activation and deactivation device is schematically represented in its second state of activating the device.

[0050] Figure 13 It is schematic and partially representative. Figures 2 to 8 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the activation and deactivation device, wherein the activation and deactivation device is in a first state in which the device deactivates the equipment.

[0051] Figure 14 and Figure 13 Similarly, the activation and deactivation device is schematically represented in its second state of activating the device.

[0052] Figure 15 It is schematic and partially representative. Figures 2 to 8 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the activation and deactivation device, wherein the activation and deactivation device is in a first state in which the device deactivates the equipment.

[0053] Figure 16 and Figure 15 Similarly, the activation and deactivation device is schematically represented in its second state of activating the device.

[0054] Figure 17 It is a schematic representation Figures 2 to 8 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the activation and deactivation device, wherein the activation and deactivation device is in a first state in which the device deactivates the equipment.

[0055] Figure 18 and Figure 17 Similarly, the activation and deactivation device is schematically represented in its second state of activating the device. Detailed Implementation

[0056] Figure 1 The railway facility 1 is schematically represented, which may be, for example, railway vehicles, including a fluid transport network 2 and at least one source of pressure medium supplied to the fluid transport network 2.

[0057] It is specifically a pneumatic pressure medium, but it can also be a hydraulic pressure medium.

[0058] The railway facility 1 also includes at least one device 3 connected to the fluid transport network 2 and capable of being supplied with fluid by the fluid transport network.

[0059] Railway facility 1 may include a railway system, and equipment 3 may be part of the railway system.

[0060] In the example shown, the system is a railway braking system, which may include a brake cylinder 4 configured to act on a brake pad or brake shoe (not shown) and is supplied with fluid by a fluid delivery network 2.

[0061] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, device 3 is a pressure medium compressor.

[0062] The fluid transport network 2 here includes a conduit called the main conduit 5 and a conduit called the main conduit 6, each extending along the railway facility 1.

[0063] The main conduit 5 is a conduit through which a pressure medium at a first pressure, for example, between 7 and 9 bar, flows, while a pressure medium at a second pressure (for example, between 0 and 5 bar) below the first pressure flows in the main conduit 6.

[0064] Device 3 is fluidly connected to main pipe 5 and is able to supply a pressure medium at a higher pressure to main pipe 5.

[0065] The fluid delivery network 2 may include a driver brake valve 7 that connects the main pipe 5 to the main conduit 6.

[0066] The fluid transport network 2 may also include an auxiliary storage tank 8, which is simultaneously fluidly connected to the main pipe 5 and the main conduit 6.

[0067] In the example shown, brake cylinder 4 is fluidly connected to auxiliary reservoir 8 to supply brake cylinder 4 and to apply or release the braking function.

[0068] In addition, railway facility 1 also includes activation and deactivation device 9, which is configured to activate and deactivate equipment 3.

[0069] The fluid delivery network 2 includes a supply conduit 10, which is branched onto the main pipe 5, and an activation and deactivation device 9 is fluidly connected to the supply conduit at the inlet.

[0070] The activation and deactivation device 9 is also connected to the device 3 at the outlet.

[0071] Specifically, the outlet may be an electrical connection (in) Figure 1 (The middle part is indicated by a dashed line).

[0072] The activation and deactivation device 9 can activate or deactivate the equipment 3 based on the fluid pressure in the fluid delivery network 2.

[0073] Specifically, device 3 can be activated or deactivated based at least on the upper limit threshold and the lower limit threshold of fluid pressure.

[0074] In the example shown, when the pressure of the pressure medium in the main pipe 5 drops below the lower limit threshold of fluid pressure (e.g., below 7 bar), the activation and deactivation device 9 can activate the device 3; and when the pressure of the pressure medium in the main pipe 5 rises above the upper limit threshold of fluid pressure (e.g., above 9 bar), the activation and deactivation device 9 can deactivate the device 3.

[0075] In other words, here, when the pressure in the main pipe 5 drops, for example due to a leak in the fluid delivery network 2, the activation and deactivation device 9 can activate the device 3 (here, the compressor) to keep it activated until the pressure in the main pipe 5 reaches a sufficient level, and then deactivate it.

[0076] Therefore, the activation and deactivation device 9 here combines two functions in a single device: the function of activating the device 3 according to a pressure level called the lower limit pressure level, and the function of deactivating the device 3 according to a pressure level called the upper limit pressure level.

[0077] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the activation and deactivation device 9 according to one embodiment.

[0078] The activation and deactivation device 9 is provided with a body 11, which includes a wall 12 and a lower chamber 13 defined by the wall 12.

[0079] In the example shown, the body 11 also includes an upper chamber 14, which is defined by a wall 12 and adjacent to a lower chamber 13.

[0080] Here, wall 12 includes opening 15, through which upper chamber 14 and lower chamber 13 communicate.

[0081] The activation and deactivation device 9 includes a drive assembly 16 disposed in the lower chamber 13 and an actuation assembly 17 disposed in the upper chamber 14.

[0082] The drive component 16 is configured to move the actuation component 17.

[0083] The drive assembly 16 includes a control member 18, which is movably arranged in the lower chamber 13 and is movable under the action of a pressure medium flowing in the fluid delivery network 2.

[0084] The control member 18 includes a piston head 19 movably arranged in the lower chamber 13 and an actuating rod 20 extending from the piston head 19 in the lower chamber 13 toward the upper chamber 14.

[0085] The actuator 20 includes an end portion 21 that extends outside the lower chamber 13 and extends through the opening 15 into the upper chamber 14.

[0086] The body 11 may include a cover 22, which is capable of closing the lower chamber 13.

[0087] On the side opposite to the actuator rod 20, the piston head 19, together with the wall 12 of the body 11 and the cover 22, defines a pressure chamber 23 in the lower chamber 13.

[0088] The drive assembly 16 may also include a diaphragm holder 26 that is inserted into the lower chamber 13 and defines a shoulder for the piston head 19 of the control member 18, that is, the diaphragm holder 26 defines the maximum stroke of the control member 18.

[0089] Additionally, the drive assembly 16 may include a diaphragm 27, the periphery of which can be clamped between the diaphragm holder 26 and the cover 22 that closes the lower chamber 13, which ensures the airtightness of the pressure chamber 23.

[0090] In other words, the pressure chamber 23 is defined here by a cover 22 and a diaphragm 27, which is flexible and deformable and moves with the control member 18.

[0091] The cover 22 includes a filling opening 28 to which the supply conduit 10 can be connected, thereby enabling communication between the pressure chamber 23 and the fluid delivery network 2, so that the pressure chamber can be supplied by the fluid delivery network.

[0092] In addition, the drive assembly 16 includes a return spring 29 disposed in the lower chamber 13, between the piston head 19 of the control member 18 and the wall 12 of the body 11.

[0093] The drive assembly 16 may also include one or more adjusting washers or adjusting shims 30, which can be disposed in the lower chamber 13 between the wall 12 of the body 11 and the return spring 29, the return spring being supported on the adjusting shims 30, which allows the preload of the return spring 29 to be adjusted according to the number of adjusting shims 30 used.

[0094] The function of the return spring 29 is to resist the pressure medium acting on the control member 18 to reset the control member 18, the pressure medium tending to move the control member toward the upper chamber 14.

[0095] The drive assembly 16 may also include a first ring 24 disposed in the opening 15 and a second ring 25 disposed on the periphery of the piston head 19, each of which forms a sliding bearing, which facilitates the sliding of the control member 18 in the lower chamber 13.

[0096] The activation and deactivation device 9 includes an activation and deactivation component 31, which is electrically connected to the device 3 at an outlet.

[0097] The actuation component 17 is configured to act on the activation and deactivation component 31, and includes a contact mechanism 32 configured to trigger the activation and deactivation component 31, and a return mechanism 33 configured to move the contact mechanism 32 under the action of the control component 18.

[0098] Therefore, the activation and deactivation component 31 and thus the device 3 can be activated or deactivated by the control component 18, with the pressure medium pressurized in the pressure chamber 23 acting on the control component.

[0099] For example, the activation and deactivation component 31 is an electrical circuit breaker or electrical switch, also known as a "switch" in English terminology.

[0100] The actuation assembly 17 also includes a holding mechanism 34 configured to hold the contact mechanism 32 in the position where its trigger activation and deactivation member 31 is located, which is the position where the device 3 is activated, as described in more detail below.

[0101] The actuation component 17 is configured to: when the pressure in the pressure chamber 23 increases, when the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 exceeds the upper pressure threshold, activate or deactivate the component 31; and when the pressure in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, when the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 23 drops below the lower pressure threshold, deactivate or deactivate the component 31.

[0102] Therefore, the activation and deactivation device 9 can turn the activation and deactivation component 31 on and off at different pressure levels according to the direction of pressure change in the pressure chamber 23.

[0103] The contact mechanism 32 includes a sleeve 35 and a needle 40, the sleeve being disposed here on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, the needle being movable by the sleeve 35 to mechanically trigger the activation and deactivation member 31.

[0104] The sleeve 35 is freely fitted onto the end portion 21 of the actuator rod 20.

[0105] In other words, the sleeve 35 can move translationally on the end portion 21 of the actuator rod 20.

[0106] The end portion 21 of the actuator 20 is provided with a lower stop member 36, which is arranged on the control member 18 on the side of the sleeve 35 facing the lower chamber 13.

[0107] The lower stop member 36 can move the sleeve 35 together with the control member 18 when the sleeve 35 abuts against the lower stop member 36, especially when the control member 18 is in the first position and when the control member moves toward the upper chamber 14 under the action of the increasing pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23.

[0108] As for the return mechanism 33, it is configured to move the sleeve 35 together with the control member 18, especially when the control member 18 is in the second position and when the control member moves toward the lower chamber 13 under the action of the decreasing pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23.

[0109] In the example shown, the return mechanism 33 includes an upper stop member 37 of the sleeve 35, which is arranged on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 on the side of the sleeve 35 opposite to the lower stop member 36.

[0110] The upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36 are separated by a distance greater than the size of the sleeve 35 along the overall extension direction of the actuating rod 20.

[0111] Therefore, the control member 18 can slide within the sleeve 35, between the upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36, without causing movement of the sleeve 35.

[0112] Furthermore, the sleeve 35 can also slide relative to the actuating rod 20 between the upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36.

[0113] The upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36 can each be implemented by a pair of first nuts 38 and a pair of second nuts 39, respectively, which are mounted on the actuating rod 20 in an opposing nut configuration, and the actuating rod is threaded here.

[0114] In the example shown, the distance between the upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36 can be adjusted by tightening and loosening nuts 38 and 39, as described below.

[0115] The sleeve 35 is configured to move the needle 40, thereby mechanically triggering the activation and deactivation of the component 31.

[0116] As a variation, the needle can be replaced by a ball or a roller.

[0117] In the example shown, the actuation assembly 17 includes a first block 41 arranged around the sleeve 35 and having a through opening 42 in which the sleeve 35 can slide.

[0118] The first piece 41 is fixed to the wall 12, for example, by screws.

[0119] The activation and deactivation component 31 includes a contactor or switch 43, and the first block 41 is provided with a first groove 44, with the switch 43 arranged at the bottom of the first groove.

[0120] The first groove 44 extends in depth along a direction substantially orthogonal to the extension direction of the through opening 42 (and therefore orthogonal to the extension direction of the sleeve 35).

[0121] The needle 40 is movably arranged in the first groove 44 so that the switch 43 can be mechanically triggered when the needle 40 is at the bottom of the first groove 44.

[0122] Here, the depth of the first groove 44 corresponds essentially to the diameter of the needle 40.

[0123] The sleeve 35 includes an outer wall 46 and a second groove 45 formed in the outer wall 46, in which the needle 40 can be at least partially received.

[0124] In the example shown, the second groove 45 has an asymmetrical cross-section, with the slope of the second groove 45 being gentler on the side facing the lower chamber 13 and steeper on the opposite side.

[0125] In particular, a planar portion with a variable size can be provided in the second groove 45, so that the sleeve 35 has a variable outer diameter in the second groove 45.

[0126] When the sleeve 35 slides in the through opening 42, the needle 40, which is in contact with the outer diameter of the sleeve 35, can be driven to translate in the first groove 44.

[0127] The contact mechanism 32 can have a first position in which the sleeve 35 is in a first position opposite to the first groove 44 of the second groove 45, and the needle 40 is in a first position in which the needle is located at the bottom of the second groove 45, at the entrance of the first groove 44 and away from the switch 43.

[0128] The contact mechanism 32 can also have a second position in which the sleeve 35 is in a second position where the second groove 45 is no longer opposite the first groove 44, and the needle 40 is in a second position in which the needle contacts the outer wall 46 of the sleeve 35, is located at the bottom of the first groove 44, and contacts the switch 43.

[0129] The retaining mechanism 34 here includes a locking element 47 that cooperates with the sleeve 35 to retain the sleeve in its first position, or correspondingly in its second position.

[0130] The sleeve 35 includes at least one third groove 48 formed in the outer wall 46, and the locking member 47 is at least partially received in the third groove.

[0131] In the example shown, the sleeve 35 also includes a fourth groove 49, which is directly adjacent to and similar to the third groove 48.

[0132] Here, the third groove 48 and the fourth groove 49 are arranged one above the other.

[0133] Specifically, the fourth groove 49 is located at approximately the same height as the second groove 45 on the sleeve 35.

[0134] When the locking member 47 is received in the third groove 48, the sleeve 35 is held in its first position; and when the locking member 47 is received in the fourth groove 49, the sleeve 35 is held in its second position.

[0135] In the example shown, the first block 41 includes a radial opening 50 at substantially the same height as the first groove 44, and the locking member 47 includes, in this order from the side of the radial opening 50 near the sleeve 35: a second pin 51 (which may also be replaced by a ball or roller), a movable pin 52, a coil spring 53, and an adjusting screw 54.

[0136] The second pin 51, the movable pin 52, the coil spring 53, and the adjusting screw 54 are housed in the radial opening 50.

[0137] The second pin 51 and the movable pin 52 are translatably movable in the radial opening 50, and the adjusting screw 54 is screwed into the end of the radial opening 50 away from the sleeve 35, which is threaded, for example, here.

[0138] Therefore, the helical spring 53 (which is, for example, a compression spring here) is clamped between the adjusting screw 54 and the movable pin 52, which enables the movable pin 52 and the second needle 51 to return toward the sleeve 35 and apply a retaining force to the sleeve 35.

[0139] When the second needle 51 is at least partially received in the fourth groove 49, the sleeve 35 remains in its first position, in which the first needle 40 is at least partially received in the second groove 45 and the switch 43 is not triggered.

[0140] When the second needle 51 is at least partially received in the third groove 48, the sleeve 35 is held in its second position, in which the first needle 40 is driven by the sleeve 35 to the bottom of the first groove 44 and triggers the switch 43.

[0141] Still referring to the different states of activating and deactivating device 9 Figure 2 as well as Figures 3 to 8 The operation of activating and deactivating device 9 will now be described.

[0142] exist Figure 2 In the process, the activation and deactivation device 9 is in a state where the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 is equal to a first value, which is, for example, zero relative to the atmosphere.

[0143] The control component 18 is in the first position, which is the extremely low position here.

[0144] The upper stop member 37 is close to or even in contact with the sleeve 35, while the lower stop member 36 is far away from the sleeve 35.

[0145] The second needle 51 of the retaining mechanism 34 is received in the fourth groove 49 of the sleeve 35, the sleeve is in its first position, and the contacting mechanism 32 is in its first position, the first needle 40 is in its first position, received in the second groove 45 of the sleeve 35, in the first position the first needle does not trigger the switch 43.

[0146] exist Figure 2 In the state shown, activating and deactivating device 9 does not activate device 3.

[0147] Figure 3 The activation and deactivation device 9 is shown in another state, in which the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 23 is relative to... Figure 2 The indicated state increases, for example, to 5 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[0148] exist Figure 3 In the state shown, neither the upper stop member 37 nor the lower stop member 36 is in contact with the sleeve 35.

[0149] Specifically, the upper stop member 37 has moved away from the sleeve 35, while the lower stop member 36 has moved closer to the sleeve 35.

[0150] The second pin 51 of the retaining mechanism 34 is still received in the fourth groove 49 of the sleeve 35, the sleeve is still in its first position, and the contact mechanism 32 is in its first position, the first pin 40 is in its first position, received in the second groove 45, in the first position the first pin does not trigger the switch 43.

[0151] Therefore, the retaining mechanism 34 holds the sleeve 35 in its first position, which is relative to Figure 2 The position of the sleeve 35 shown remains unchanged.

[0152] exist Figure 3 In the state shown, activating and deactivating device 9 still does not activate device 3.

[0153] Figure 4 The activation and deactivation device 9 is shown in a state in which the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 23 is relative to the pressure of the fluid in the chamber. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Further increases, for example, to 10 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[0154] The upper stop member 37 has moved further away from the sleeve 35 and is no longer in contact with the sleeve, while the lower stop member 36 has moved further closer to the sleeve 35 until it contacts the sleeve 35 and pushes the sleeve.

[0155] exist Figure 4The sleeve 35, which begins to move upward, causes the second needle 51 of the retaining mechanism 34 to move in the through opening 42 against the action of the coil spring 53. The second needle is no longer housed in the fourth groove 49 of the sleeve 35, but is located between the third groove 48 and the fourth groove 49.

[0156] The sleeve 35 is between its first and second positions, and the contact mechanism 32 is gradually pushed toward the switch 43 toward its second position, however the switch is not triggered.

[0157] exist Figure 4 In the state shown, device 9 is activated and deactivated, but device 3 is still not activated.

[0158] Figure 5 The activation and deactivation device 9 is shown in yet another state, in which the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 23 is relative to... Figures 2 to 4 Further increases, for example, to 11 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[0159] The control component 18 is in the second position, which is the extremely high position.

[0160] Here, the lower stop member 36 is still in contact with the sleeve 35.

[0161] The sleeve 35 is now in its second position, and the second needle 51 of the retaining mechanism 34 is accommodated in the third groove 48.

[0162] However, it should be noted that the configuration of sleeve 35 allows the sleeve to automatically switch to its second position even when the lower stop member 36 is no longer in contact with sleeve 35.

[0163] The first needle 40 has completely left the second groove 45 and is in its second position, and triggers the switch 43.

[0164] exist Figure 5 In the state shown, activation and deactivation device 9 now activates device 3.

[0165] Therefore, in the example shown, the upper limit of pressure that activates device 3 corresponds to 11 bar.

[0166] Figure 6 The activation and deactivation device 9 is shown to be in another state, in which the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 23 is relative to... Figure 5 Descending, for example, to 8 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[0167] The control component 18 is in a third intermediate position between its high and low positions.

[0168] Neither the upper stop member 37 nor the lower stop member 36 is in contact with the sleeve 35.

[0169] Specifically, the upper stop member 37 has approached the sleeve 35, while the lower stop member 36 has moved away from the sleeve 35.

[0170] The second pin 51 of the retaining mechanism 34 is still accommodated in the third groove 48 of the sleeve 35, the sleeve is in its second position, and the contact mechanism 32 is in its second position, the first pin 40 is in its second position, outside the second groove 45 and located at the bottom of the first groove 44 and triggers the switch 43.

[0171] exist Figure 6 In the state shown, the retaining mechanism 34 thus holds the sleeve 35 in its second position, which is relative to... Figure 5 The positions shown remain unchanged.

[0172] exist Figure 6 In the state shown, despite the pressure drop, the activation and deactivation device 9 still activates the device 3.

[0173] Figure 7 The activation and deactivation device 9 is shown to be in another state, in which the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 23 is relative to... Figure 5 and Figure 6 Further decrease, for example, to 5 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[0174] The upper stop member 37 has approached and contacted the sleeve 35, and the lower stop member 36 has further moved away from and away from the sleeve 35.

[0175] The second needle 51 of the retaining mechanism 34 is accommodated in the third groove 48 of the sleeve 35, the sleeve being in its second position, and the contacting mechanism 32 being in its second position, the first needle 40 being in its second position, outside the second groove 45, located at the bottom of the first groove 44, and triggering the switch 43.

[0176] exist Figure 7 In the state shown, although the pressure drops again, the activation and deactivation device 9 still activates the device 3.

[0177] Figure 8 The activation and deactivation device 9 is shown to be in another state called unstable, in which the fluid pressure in the pressure chamber 23 is relative to the pressure in the pressure chamber 23. Figures 5 to 7 Further decrease, for example, to 3 bar relative to the atmosphere.

[0178] The lower stop member 36 has moved further away from and remained away from the sleeve 35, while the upper stop member 37 has moved further closer until it contacts the sleeve 35 and pulls the sleeve.

[0179] exist Figure 8The sleeve 35, which begins to move downward, causes the second pin 51 of the retaining mechanism 34 to move in the radial opening 50 against the action of the coil spring 53 and the movable pin 52 inserted between the coil spring 53 and the second pin 51. The second pin is no longer accommodated in the third groove 48 of the sleeve 35, but is located between the third groove 48 and the fourth groove 49.

[0180] The sleeve 35 is between its first position and second position, and the contact mechanism 32 is gradually brought back to its first position. The first needle 40 is brought back away from the switch 43 in the direction of the second groove 45, but the switch is still triggered by the contact mechanism 32 in this state.

[0181] Therefore, although the pressure drops again, the activation and deactivation device 9 still activates the device 3 in this state, but the state change is in progress.

[0182] In practice, when the fluid pressure in pressure chamber 23 decreases further and reaches, for example, 2 bar relative to atmosphere, the second needle 51 re-enters the fourth groove 49, and the sleeve 35 switches to its first position. Therefore, the first needle 40 is brought back to the bottom of the second groove 45 and no longer triggers the switch 43.

[0183] Therefore, the activation and deactivation device 9 is basically in a state of equilibrium with... Figure 2 The state shown is the same as the state shown, and device 3 is no longer activated.

[0184] Therefore, in the example shown, the lower pressure threshold at which device 3 is deactivated corresponds to 2 bar.

[0185] The lower pressure threshold and the upper pressure threshold can be adjusted by adjusting the positions of the upper stop member 37 and the lower stop member 36, respectively.

[0186] This allows adjustment of the difference between the lower pressure threshold and the upper pressure threshold.

[0187] This can also be achieved by calibrating the reset spring 29 (for example, with the help of adjusting shims 30), which allows the lower pressure threshold and the upper pressure threshold to increase or decrease by the same value simultaneously.

[0188] In the example shown, adjustment can be made by turning a pair of first nuts 38, or correspondingly a pair of second nuts 39, to different degrees on the threaded end portion 21.

[0189] According to the operation described above, the activation and deactivation device 9 can activate the device 3 according to the first pressure level and deactivate the device 3 according to the second pressure level.

[0190] Other embodiments of activating and deactivating device 9 are described below.

[0191] In the following description of embodiments, the combination with Figures 2 to 8 Elements similar to or the same as those described in the embodiments are given the same reference numerals.

[0192] Figure 9 and Figure 10 A first embodiment variation of the activation and deactivation device 9 is shown in these figures; only the actuation component 17 is shown, and the drive component and... Figures 2 to 8 The drive component 16 shown is similar to or the same as the one shown.

[0193] In this first variant, the actuation assembly 17 includes a contact mechanism 132, which is provided with a lever 135 having a first end connected to the body 11 at a first pivot point 131.

[0194] The lever 135 is also connected to the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[0195] The lever 135 is mounted on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 in a way that allows it to slide and pivot.

[0196] In the example shown, lever 135 includes a transverse opening 136, which is oblong, into which the end portion 21 of actuating rod 20 is inserted.

[0197] The lever 135 includes a contact member 137 configured to trigger a switch 43 that activates and deactivates the member 31.

[0198] In the example shown, lever 135 includes a through threaded opening 138, and contact member 137 is formed by a screw inserted into the through threaded opening 138 such that the free end of the screw protrudes from the through threaded opening 138, and such that the screw can trigger switch 43 when lever 135 is pivoted.

[0199] In addition, the actuation assembly 17 includes a holding mechanism 134, which here includes a hairpin-type torsion spring 153, the torsion spring including a first free end 154 and a second free end 155.

[0200] The torsion spring 153 is connected to the body 11 at the fixed point 156 via its second free end 155.

[0201] The lever 135 includes a second end opposite to the first end, and the first free end 154 of the torsion spring 153 is connected to the second end at the second pivot point 139.

[0202] Actuation assembly 17 also includes a return mechanism 33, which is coupled here with Figures 2 to 8 The return mechanism is similar to that described in the embodiments.

[0203] For example, the return mechanism 33 includes an upper stop member 37, which can be formed by two nuts 38 arranged in a top-down nut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuator 20.

[0204] In a similar manner, the lower stop member 36 can be formed by two nuts 39 arranged in a counternut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuator rod 20 on the side of the lever 135 near the lower chamber 13.

[0205] The operation of activating and deactivating device 9 is as follows.

[0206] exist Figure 9 In the state shown, lever 135 is in the first position, in which the lever does not trigger switch 43.

[0207] The torsion spring 153 is in a first position, which is the stable position of the device and is a first angular position relative to the body 11 to which the torsion spring is connected.

[0208] When the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, the lower stop member 36 abuts against the lever 135 and resists the torsion spring 153 which is in the first position and holds the lever 135 in the first position.

[0209] When the force applied by the control member 18 is sufficient to overcome the force applied by the torsion spring 153, that is, when the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 reaches the upper pressure threshold, the torsion spring 153 yields, and the lever 135 pivots to its second position, which is the stable position of the device, in which the lever triggers the switch 43.

[0210] Therefore, the torsion spring 153 is in the second position, which is the second angular position relative to the body 11.

[0211] The state of activating and deactivating device 9 is in Figure 10 As shown in the image.

[0212] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the lower stop member 36 moves away from the lever 135, and then the upper stop member 37 approaches and contacts the lever 135.

[0213] The torsion spring 153 remains in its second position and holds the lever 135 in its second position, in which the lever triggers the switch 43.

[0214] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 drops below the lower pressure threshold, the torsion spring 153 switches to its first position, and the lever 135 also switches to its first position. The first position is the stable position of the device, in which the lever does not trigger the switch 43.

[0215] Figure 11 and Figure 12 A second embodiment of the activation and deactivation device 9 is shown, illustrating only the actuation component 17, the drive component, and... Figures 2 to 8 The drive component 16 shown is similar to or the same as the one shown.

[0216] In this second variant, the actuation assembly 17 includes a contact mechanism 232, which is similar to the contact mechanism 132 described above in conjunction with the first embodiment of the actuation assembly 17.

[0217] The contact mechanism 232 includes a lever 235, the lever having a first end connected to the body 11 at a first pivot point 231.

[0218] On the other hand, lever 235 is connected to the end portion 21 of actuator rod 20.

[0219] The lever 235 is mounted on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 in a way that allows it to slide and pivot.

[0220] In the example shown, lever 235 includes a transverse opening 236, which is oblong, into which the end portion 21 of actuating rod 20 is inserted.

[0221] The lever 235 includes a contact member 237 configured to trigger a switch 43 that activates and deactivates the member 31.

[0222] In the example shown, lever 235 includes a through threaded opening 238, and contact member 237 is formed by a screw inserted into the through threaded opening 238 such that the free end of the screw protrudes from the through threaded opening 238, and such that the screw can trigger a switch 43 to activate and deactivate member 31 when lever 235 is pivoted.

[0223] In addition, the actuation assembly 17 includes a retaining mechanism 234, which here includes a hoof block 251 configured to pivot about a third pivot point 250 relative to the body 11.

[0224] The shoe block 251 includes a first friction surface 252 on one of its faces facing the lever 235.

[0225] The lever 235 includes a second end opposite to the first end, the second end including an end head 248, which in the illustrated example is widened into a hammer shape and has a curved front surface.

[0226] End 248 includes a second friction surface 249 on the front surface of lever 235 facing shoe 251.

[0227] The lever 235 and the shoe block 251 are configured to contact each other through their respective friction surfaces 249 and 252. Here, the lever 235 and the shoe block 251 are arranged substantially orthogonally to each other.

[0228] The retaining mechanism 234 also includes a compression spring 253, which is a helical spring type, clamped between the shoe 251 and the wall 12 of the body 11.

[0229] The retaining mechanism 234 may also include a connecting member 255, which is mechanically fixed to the shoe block 251 on one hand and supported on the compression spring 253 on the other hand, and is capable of adjusting the preload of the compression spring 253.

[0230] For example, the connecting member 255 may include a threaded connecting rod 256 (which is mechanically fixed to the shoe 251), a pair of nuts 257 screwed onto the connecting rod 256, and a support washer 258 fitted onto the connecting rod 256, the support washer abutting against the pair of nuts 257 on one hand and against the compression spring 253 on the other.

[0231] Actuation assembly 17 also includes a return mechanism 33, which is coupled here with Figures 2 to 8 The return mechanism is similar to that described in the embodiments.

[0232] For example, the return mechanism 33 includes an upper stop member 37, which can be formed by two nuts 38 arranged in a top-down nut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuator 20.

[0233] In a similar manner, the lower stop member 36 can be formed by two nuts 39 arranged in a counternut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuator rod 20 on the side of the lever 235 near the lower chamber 13.

[0234] The operation of activating and deactivating device 9 is as follows.

[0235] exist Figure 11 In the state shown, the lever is in the first position, in which the lever does not trigger switch 43.

[0236] The hoof block 251 is in a first position, which is a first angular position relative to the body 11 to which the hoof block is connected.

[0237] When the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, the lower stop member 36 abuts against the lever 235.

[0238] The shoe block 251 is held against the end 248 of the lever 235 by a compression spring 253.

[0239] When the force applied by the control member 18 is sufficient to overcome the frictional force (which is generated by the force applied by the compression spring 253 at the contact area between the first friction surface 252 and the second friction surface 249), that is, when the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 reaches the upper pressure threshold, the lever 235 pivots to its second position, in which the lever triggers the switch 43.

[0240] Therefore, hoof block 251 is in the second position, which is the second angular position relative to the body 11.

[0241] The state of activating and deactivating device 9 is in Figure 12 As shown in the figure. Due to the complementary shapes of the first friction surface 252 and the second friction surface 249 (which are concave and convex here, respectively), the angular rotation of the shoe 251 between its first position and second position is small, for example, on the order of a few degrees.

[0242] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the lower stop member 36 moves away from the lever 235, and then the upper stop member 37 approaches and contacts the lever 235.

[0243] The hoof block 251 remains in its second position, and holds the lever 235 in the second position of the lever trigger switch 43.

[0244] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 drops below the lower pressure threshold, the force applied by the control member 18 exceeds the friction force at the contact area between the first friction surface 252 and the second friction surface 249, the shoe block 251 switches to its first position, and the lever 235 also switches to the first position of the lever non-trigger switch 43.

[0245] Figure 13 and Figure 14 A third embodiment of the activation and deactivation device 9 is shown, illustrating only the actuation component 17, the drive component, and... Figures 2 to 8 The drive component 16 shown is similar to or the same as the one shown.

[0246] In this third variation, the actuation assembly 17 includes a contact mechanism 332, which includes a lever 335, the lever including a first end connected to the body 11 at a first pivot point 331.

[0247] The lever 335 includes a contact member 337 configured to trigger a switch 43 that activates and deactivates the member 31.

[0248] In the example shown, lever 335 includes a through threaded opening 338, and contact member 337 is formed by a screw inserted into the through threaded opening 338 such that the free end of the screw protrudes from the through threaded opening 338 and is able to trigger switch 43 when lever 335 is pivoted.

[0249] The lever 335 is connected to the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20.

[0250] The end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is configured to contact the lever 335 at the end support point 336 of the end portion 21, particularly when the control member 18 switches from its first position to its second position.

[0251] The actuator 20 may include an end cap 346 that is inserted into or screwed onto the end portion 21 of the actuator 20, and the end cap includes an end support point 336 and forms a lower stop member thereon.

[0252] When the end cap 346 is screwed onto the end portion 21, the resulting stop member is adjustable in position.

[0253] In addition, the actuation assembly 17 includes a retaining mechanism 334, which here includes a pawl 351 configured to pivot relative to the body 11 about a third pivot point 350.

[0254] The pawl 351 includes teeth 352 facing the lever 335.

[0255] The lever 335 includes a second end opposite to the first end, the second end including a beak 348 facing the pawl 351.

[0256] The teeth 352 of the pawl 351 are configured to retain the beak 348 when the beak 348 rests on the teeth 352.

[0257] Here, lever 335 and pawl 351 are arranged substantially orthogonally to each other.

[0258] The retaining mechanism 334 also includes a compression spring 353, which is a hairpin spring type, held between the pawl 351 and the wall 12 of the body 11.

[0259] In addition, the actuation component 17 includes a return mechanism 333, which here includes a return lever 340 that is pivotable relative to the body 11.

[0260] The return lever 340 includes a first end, which is rotatably connected to the body 11 at a fourth pivot point 341.

[0261] The return lever 340 is mounted on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 in a way that allows it to slide and pivot.

[0262] In the example shown, the return lever 340 includes an elongated transverse opening into which the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is inserted.

[0263] In addition, the return mechanism 333 includes an upper stop member 339, which can be formed by two nuts 330 arranged in a top-down nut configuration on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, and can contact the return lever 340.

[0264] The upper stop member 339 is arranged here between the end support point 336 and the return lever 340.

[0265] The return mechanism 333 also includes a connector 342 that mechanically connects the lever 335 and the return lever 340.

[0266] The connector 342 is rotatably connected to the second end of the lever 335 at the fifth pivot point 343, and rotatably connected to the second end of the return lever 340 opposite to the first end at the sixth pivot point 344.

[0267] The connector 342 here includes a tension spring extending between the fifth pivot point 343 and the sixth pivot point 344.

[0268] Furthermore, the pawl 351 has a contact surface 354 facing the lever 335, and the return lever 340 is capable of including a round head 345 at its second end, which may also be a roller or a bearing, and is configured to contact the contact surface 354, particularly when the control member 18 switches from its second position to its first position.

[0269] The round head can be formed, for example, by a roller or a bearing.

[0270] The operation of activating and deactivating device 9 is as follows.

[0271] exist Figure 13 In the state shown, lever 335 is in the first position, in which the lever does not trigger switch 43.

[0272] The pawl 351 is in a first position, which is a first angular position relative to the body 11 to which the pawl is connected.

[0273] As the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, the end cap 346 approaches and abuts against the lever 335 through the end support point 336.

[0274] The lever 335 moves to its second position and causes the pawl 351 to rotate and move against the action of the compression spring 353.

[0275] When the force applied by the control member 18 is sufficient to overcome the force applied by the compression spring 353, that is, when the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 reaches the upper pressure threshold, the beak 348 passes over the tooth 352, and the pawl 351 holds the lever 335 in its second position, in which the lever triggers the switch 43.

[0276] Therefore, the pawl 351 is in the second position, which is the second angular position relative to the body 11.

[0277] The state of activating and deactivating device 9 is in Figure 14 As shown in the diagram. Here, the pawl 351 rotates at a small angle between its first and second positions, for example, on the order of a few degrees.

[0278] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the end cap 346 moves away from the lever 335, and then the upper stop member 339 approaches and contacts the return lever 340.

[0279] The pawl 351 remains in its second position, and holds the lever 335 in the second position of the lever trigger switch 43.

[0280] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 drops below the lower pressure threshold, the return lever 340, driven by the upper stop member 339 through the connector 342 (the connector includes a spring that allows relative movement between the return lever 340 and the lever 335), contacts the pawl 351 through the contact surface 354 of the round head 345, thereby releasing the locking of the tooth 352 to the beak 348 and pulling the connector 342. The connector 342 itself pulls the released lever 335, so the lever gradually switches from its second position to the first position of the lever not triggering the switch 43.

[0281] It should be noted that the return lever 340 is driven to rotate by the upper stop member 339 and the spring that allows relative movement between the return lever 340 and the lever 335 via the connecting member 342.

[0282] Figure 15 and Figure 16 A fourth embodiment of the activation and deactivation device 9 is shown, illustrating only the actuation component 17, the drive component, and... Figures 2 to 8 The drive component 16 shown is similar to or the same as the one shown.

[0283] In this fourth variation, the actuation assembly 17 includes a contact mechanism 432, which is coupled with... Figures 2 to 8 Similarly, in the described embodiment, the contact mechanism includes a sleeve 435.

[0284] The sleeve 435 is arranged on the end portion 21 of the actuator 20, and is translatably movable on the end portion 21 of the actuator 20.

[0285] Sleeve 435 includes a side arm 438 extending laterally from sleeve 435. Side arm 438 is provided with a threaded opening, and contact mechanism 432 includes a contact member 437, which is formed here by a screw inserted into the threaded opening of side arm 438.

[0286] Contact member 437, specifically the screw free end extending from the threaded opening in side arm 438, is configured to contact switch 43 of activation and deactivation member 31.

[0287] The end portion 21 of the actuator 20 includes a lower stop member 436, which is formed here by a shoulder included in the actuator 20.

[0288] The lower stop member 436 can move the sleeve 435 together with the control member 18 when the sleeve 435 abuts against the lower stop member 436, especially when the control member 18 is in the first position and moves toward the upper chamber 14 under the action of the increasing pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23.

[0289] The actuation assembly 17 includes a return mechanism 433, which here includes an upper stop member 439, which is formed, for example, by a nut screwed onto the end portion 21 of the actuation rod 20, the end portion here being threaded.

[0290] The return mechanism 433 here also includes a return spring 430, which is arranged on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 and between the upper stop member 439 and the sleeve 435.

[0291] Optionally, the return mechanism 433 may also include a spacer (not shown) disposed on the end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20, between the upper stop member 439 and the sleeve 435, the upper stop member 439 being configured to contact the spacer.

[0292] The actuation assembly 17 also includes a retaining mechanism 434, which here includes a hairpin-type torsion spring 453, the torsion spring having a first free end and a second free end.

[0293] The torsion spring 453 is rotatably connected to the body 11 at the fixed point 454 via its second free end.

[0294] The torsion spring 453 includes a roller 440 at its first end, which may also be a ball or a needle.

[0295] The sleeve 435 includes a first groove 445 in which the roller 440 is at least partially accommodated.

[0296] The operation of activating and deactivating device 9 is as follows.

[0297] exist Figure 15 In the state shown, the sleeve 435 is in the first position, in which the sleeve does not trigger the switch 43.

[0298] The torsion spring 453 is in the first position, in which the roller 440 is outside the first groove 445 and abuts against the sleeve 435.

[0299] When the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position, the lower stop member 436 abuts against the sleeve 435, and the sleeve 435 moves to its second position.

[0300] When the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 reaches the upper pressure threshold, the roller 440 is housed in the first groove 445. The roller is held in the first groove by the action of the torsion spring 453, and the holding mechanism 434 in the second position holds the sleeve 435 in the second position of its trigger switch 43.

[0301] The state of activating and deactivating device 9 is in Figure 16 As shown in the image.

[0302] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the lower stop member 436 and the sleeve 435 separate and thus move away from each other.

[0303] The upper stop member 439 moves toward the sleeve 435, which is held in the second position of the trigger switch 43, and the return spring 430 is compressed.

[0304] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 drops below the lower pressure threshold, the force applied by the compressed return spring 430 exceeds the force applied by the torsion spring 453, and the roller 440 moves out of the first groove 445, and the sleeve 435 moves from its second position to its first position, in which the sleeve does not trigger the switch 43.

[0305] Figures 17 to 18 The fifth implementation variant of the activation and deactivation device 9 is shown.

[0306] In this fifth variant, drive component 16 and Figures 2 to 8 The driving components shown are similar.

[0307] Therefore, the drive assembly 16 includes a control member 18, which is movably arranged in the lower chamber 13 and is movable under the action of a pressure medium flowing in the fluid delivery network.

[0308] The control member 18 includes a piston head 19 movably arranged in the lower chamber 13 and an actuating rod 20 extending from the piston head 19 in the lower chamber 13 toward the upper chamber 14.

[0309] The actuator 20 includes an end portion 21 that extends outside the lower chamber 13 and extends through the opening 15 into the upper chamber 14.

[0310] The body 11 may include a cover 22, which is capable of closing the lower chamber 13.

[0311] On the side of piston head 19 opposite to actuating rod 20, piston head 19, together with wall 12 of body 11 and cover 22, defines pressure chamber 23 in lower chamber 13.

[0312] The drive assembly 16 may include a sleeve 55 disposed in the opening 15 and extending into the lower chamber 13, wherein the actuating rod 20 is slidable within the sleeve.

[0313] The drive assembly 16 may also include a diaphragm holder 26 that is inserted into the lower chamber 13 and defines a shoulder for the piston head 19 of the control member 18, that is, the diaphragm holder 26 defines the maximum stroke of the control member 18.

[0314] Additionally, the drive assembly 16 may include a diaphragm 27, the periphery of which can be clamped between the diaphragm holder 26 and the cover 22 that closes the lower chamber 13, which ensures the airtightness of the pressure chamber 23.

[0315] In other words, the pressure chamber 23 is defined here by a cover 22 and a diaphragm 27, which is flexible and deformable and moves with the control member 18.

[0316] The cover 22 includes a filling opening 28 to which a supply conduit can be connected, enabling communication between the pressure chamber 23 and a fluid delivery network, thereby supplying the pressure chamber by the fluid delivery network.

[0317] In addition, the drive assembly 16 includes a return spring 29 disposed in the lower chamber 13, between the piston head 19 of the control member 18 and the wall 12 of the body 11.

[0318] The drive assembly 16 may also include an adjustment shim 30, which can be disposed in the lower chamber 13, between the wall 12 of the body 11 and the return spring 29, the return spring being supported on the adjustment shim 30.

[0319] Here, the adjusting shim 30 may include a threaded center opening, and the sleeve 55 may include external threads, such that the adjusting shim 30 can be screwed onto the sleeve 55, and that the preload of the return spring 29 can be adjusted by tightening and loosening the adjusting shim 30.

[0320] The function of the return spring 29 is to resist the pressure medium acting on the control member 18, which tends to move it towards the upper chamber 14, so that the control member 18 is reset.

[0321] The activation and deactivation device 9 includes an activation and deactivation component 31, which is connected to the device at an outlet.

[0322] The actuation component 17 is configured to act on the activation and deactivation component 31, and includes a contact mechanism 532 configured to trigger the activation and deactivation component 31, and a return mechanism 533 configured to move the contact mechanism 532 under the action of the control component 18.

[0323] The contact mechanism 532 includes a lever 535, the lever having a first end connected to the body 11 at a first pivot point 531.

[0324] The lever 535 includes a contact member 537 configured to trigger a switch 43 of the activation and deactivation member 31.

[0325] In the example shown, lever 535 includes a through threaded opening 538, and contact member 537 is formed by a bolt inserted into the through threaded opening 538 such that the head of the bolt can trigger switch 43 when lever 535 is pivoted.

[0326] The end portion 21 of the actuating rod 20 is configured to contact the lever 535 at the end support point 536 of the end portion 21, particularly when the control member 18 switches from its first position to its second position.

[0327] The actuating rod 20 may include an axial threaded opening and a lower stop member formed by a lower stop screw 539 inserted into the axial threaded opening. The head of the lower stop screw 539 here includes an end support point 536 and is configured to contact the lever 535. The actuating rod 20 may also include a nut fitted onto the lower stop screw 539, the nut being capable of adjusting the position of the lower stop member relative to the lever 535.

[0328] Furthermore, lever 535 includes a beak 546 at a second end opposite to the first end.

[0329] In addition, the actuation assembly 17 includes a return mechanism 533, which here includes a return spring 540, which here is a torsion spring.

[0330] The return spring 540 includes a first end and a second end. The return spring is connected to the body 11 through the first end, and the second end abuts against the lever 535.

[0331] The actuation assembly 17 may also include an upper stop member 541, which can be formed by a protrusion protruding from the wall 12 of the body 11 into the upper chamber 14.

[0332] Actuation component 17 also includes a holding mechanism 534 configured to hold contact mechanism 532 in a position where it triggers the activation and deactivation member 31, which is the position where the device is activated.

[0333] The retaining mechanism 534 includes a retaining piston 547 configured to hold the lever 535 in its second position.

[0334] The retaining mechanism 534 includes a secondary cavity 548 and a secondary pressure chamber 549, with a retaining piston 547 housed in the secondary cavity and the secondary pressure chamber defined by the retaining piston 547 and the secondary cavity 548.

[0335] The secondary cavity 548 can be formed directly in the wall 12 of the body 11, or it can be formed by an additional wall attached to and connected to the body 11.

[0336] The retaining mechanism 534 also includes a secondary fluid circulation network, which includes a secondary conduit 550 in which a pressure medium can flow.

[0337] The auxiliary conduit 550 is fluidly connected to pressure chamber 23 (here by means of a branch fitting in filling opening 28) and auxiliary pressure chamber 549.

[0338] For example, the auxiliary conduit 550 is formed directly in the wall 12 of the body 11.

[0339] The retaining piston 547 includes a retaining piston head 551 and a retaining piston rod 552 that are connected to each other.

[0340] The secondary pressure chamber 549 includes an opening in the wall 12 of the body 11, through which the piston rod 552 extends into the upper chamber 14, opposite the beak 546 of the lever 535.

[0341] The retaining piston 547 also includes a secondary return spring 553, which is arranged around the retaining piston rod 552 between the retaining piston head 551 and the wall of the secondary cavity 548.

[0342] The retaining piston 547 may include one or more secondary adjusting shims 554, which are arranged between the secondary return spring 553 and the secondary cavity 548 and are capable of adjusting the stress of the secondary return spring 553.

[0343] The operation of activating and deactivating device 9 is as follows.

[0344] exist Figure 17 In the state shown, lever 535 is in the first position, in which the lever does not trigger switch 43.

[0345] Keep the piston rod 552 in the first position, in which the piston rod is kept from extending into the upper chamber 14.

[0346] Under the increasing pressure in pressure chamber 23 (and therefore also in secondary pressure chamber 549), piston rod 552 is moved outside secondary cavity 548 until it abuts against the beak 546 of lever 535.

[0347] Here, the control member 18 and the holding piston 547 are sized such that when the pressure in the pressure chamber 23 increases, the holding piston rod 552 first moves from its first position to its second position, and then the control member 18 moves from its first position to its second position.

[0348] Specifically, the piston rod 552 is kept in motion when the pressure in pressure chamber 23 (and therefore in secondary pressure chamber 549) reaches the lower pressure threshold.

[0349] When the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 reaches the upper pressure threshold, the lower stop member (which is formed here by the lower stop screw 539) moves the lever 535 from its first position to its second position, in which the lever triggers the switch 43.

[0350] The piston rod 552 is then moved below the beak 546 of the lever 535 and placed in a second position, in which the piston rod holds the lever 535 in its second position.

[0351] The state of activating and deactivating device 9 is in Figure 18 As shown in the image.

[0352] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 decreases, the lower stop member (formed here by the lower stop screw 539) moves away from and away from the lever 535.

[0353] The return spring 540 applies a return force to the lever 535, but the lever is still held in its second position by the retaining piston rod 552.

[0354] When the pressure of the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 23 drops below the lower pressure threshold, the piston rod 552 is moved from its second position to its first position, thereby releasing the beak 546 and thus releasing the lever 535, which then moves from its second position to its first position, in which the lever does not trigger the switch 43.

[0355] Variations not shown are described below.

[0356] The activation and deactivation device can be configured to turn the device on or off based on more than two pressure thresholds, such as three or four pressure thresholds. For this purpose, for example in... Figures 2 to 8 The sleeve described in the embodiments may include three or four grooves in which the second needle can be accommodated, and the activation and deactivation device may include two or three activation and deactivation members, for example, arranged in different radial planes.

[0357] Activation and deactivation components may differ from electrical "switch" type devices and may be, for example, mechanical or fluid activation and deactivation components.

[0358] The operation of the activation and deactivation device can be reversed, that is, the activation and deactivation device is deactivated when the control member switches from its first position to its second position, and the activation and deactivation device is activated when the control member switches from its second position to its first position.

[0359] In all embodiments and variations, the spring—whether a helical spring, torsion spring, or hairpin spring—can be replaced by different springs that ensure the same function in a similar arrangement.

[0360] The body of the activation and deactivation device can be a different shape than the shape shown, and the lower chamber and the upper chamber can be arranged differently relative to each other, in particular side by side or one above the other but in the opposite configuration to that shown in the figure.

[0361] Activation and deactivation components include more than a single contactor or switch.

[0362] More generally, the invention is not limited to the examples described and shown.

Claims

1. A railway facility (1) comprising a fluid transport network (2), at least one device (3) connected to the fluid transport network (2) and configured to be activated or deactivated according to a fluid pressure upper threshold and a fluid pressure lower threshold, and an activation and deactivation device (9) for activating and deactivating the at least one device (3), the activation and deactivation device being connected to the fluid transport network (2) at an inlet and to the at least one device (3) at an outlet; the activation and deactivation device (9) comprising: - Activate and deactivate component (31), said activation and deactivate component being connected to said at least one device; - Body (11), the body including a lower chamber (13); - A control member (18) movably disposed in the lower chamber (13) and defining, together with the body (11), a pressure chamber (23) connected to the fluid delivery network (2), the control member (18) further having an actuating rod (20) including an end portion (21) extending outside the lower chamber (13), the control member (18) being configured to move in the lower chamber (13) between a first position and a second position of the control member under the action of a pressurized fluid, in the first position being deactivated or activated, and in the second position being activated or deactivated; - Contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532), the contact mechanism is configured such that the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) moves between a first position and a second position, in the first position of the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) Disconnect or connect the activation and deactivation component (31), and in the second position of the contact mechanism, the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) connects or disconnects the activation and deactivation component (31); The activation and deactivation device (9) is configured as follows: - When the pressure fluid is below the lower limit threshold or the upper limit threshold, a first configuration is adopted, in which the control member (18) and the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) are in their respective first positions or between their respective first and second positions; - When the pressure fluid reaches the upper limit threshold of the fluid pressure, a second configuration is adopted, in which the control member (18) and the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) are in their respective second positions; The activation and deactivation device (9) is characterized in that it further includes a holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434; 534) and a return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533), wherein the holding mechanism is configured to hold the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) in a second position of the contact mechanism, and the return mechanism is configured to move the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) from the second position where the contact mechanism is held to a first position; Furthermore, the activation and deactivation device (9) is configured to adopt a third configuration when the pressure fluid is below the upper limit threshold of the fluid pressure and above the middle threshold of the fluid pressure, wherein the middle threshold of the fluid pressure is greater than the lower limit threshold of the fluid pressure, wherein in the third configuration the control member (18) is in the middle position between the first position and the second position of the control member, and the holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434; 534) resists the action of the return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533) and holds the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) in the second position of the contact mechanism.

2. The railway facility (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) is mechanically connected to the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) and is at least partially slidably mounted on the end portion (21) and / or pivotally mounted relative to the end portion (21).

3. The railway facility (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533) includes an upper stop member (37; 339; 439; 541) disposed on the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) and configured to drive the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) from the second position of the contact mechanism to the first position of the contact mechanism directly or indirectly through contact.

4. The railway facility (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The upper stop member (37; 439; 541) is configured to directly abut against the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 432; 532) to move the contact mechanism from the second position to the first position.

5. The railway facility (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The return mechanism (333; 433) further includes at least one intermediate member, and the upper stop member (339; 439) acts on the intermediate member to drive the contact mechanism (332; 432) from the second position of the contact mechanism to the first position of the contact mechanism by contact.

6. The railway facility according to claim 5, characterized in that, The intermediate component is formed by a return spring (430) and / or a spacer and / or a return lever (340).

7. The railway facility (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The contact mechanism (32; 432) includes a sleeve (35; 435) that is translatably movable on the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20).

8. The railway facility (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The contact mechanism (132; 232; 332) includes a lever (135; 235; 335) which is rotatably movable relative to the body (11) and is translatably and rotatably connected to the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20).

9. The railway facility (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that, The activation and deactivation device (9) includes a lower stop member (36; 436) disposed on the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) and configured to move the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) from a first position to a second position by contact.

10. The railway facility (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The retaining mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434) includes at least one elastic element configured to directly or indirectly apply an elastic retaining force to the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432), such that the elastic element retains the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432) in a second position of the contact mechanism in the second and third configurations of the activation and deactivation device.

11. The railway facility (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The retaining mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434) further includes a retainer that is forceped by the at least one elastic element, and the contacting mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432) includes a complementary retaining member configured to cooperate with the retainer of the retaining mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434) in the second and third configurations of the activation and deactivation device.

12. The railway facility (1) according to any one of claims 10 and 11, characterized in that, The at least one elastic element is configured to have a first stable position and a second stable position, in the first stable position the at least one elastic element applies force to the contact mechanism (132) away from its second position, and in the second stable position the at least one elastic element applies force to the contact mechanism (132) in its second position, the at least one elastic element also having a flip position for switching from one of the first stable position and the second stable position of the elastic element to the other by an external force.

13. The railway facility (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The contact mechanism (232) includes an end (248), and the retaining mechanism (234) includes a shoe (251) disposed between the at least one elastic element and the end (248) of the contact mechanism (232). The shoe (251) and the end (248) are configured to retain the contact mechanism (232) in a second position of the contact mechanism in the second and third configurations of the activation and deactivation device by friction and / or by a stop engagement.

14. The railway facility (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The body of the activation and deactivation device includes a secondary cavity (548), and the retaining mechanism (534) is formed by a retaining piston (547) movably arranged in the secondary cavity (548) and defining a secondary pressure chamber (549) connected to the fluid delivery network (2) together with the body (11). The retaining piston (547) is provided with a retaining piston rod (552) which is configured on the one hand to form a position stop when the contact mechanism (532) is in its second position, and on the other hand to retract when the pressure value of the pressure fluid is lower than the intermediate threshold of the fluid pressure.

15. A railway vehicle comprising railway facilities (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. An activation and deactivation device (9) for activating and deactivating at least one device (3), configured to be connected at an inlet to a fluid delivery network (2) and at an outlet to said at least one device (3); said activation and deactivation device (9) comprises: - Activate and deactivate component (31), said activation and deactivate component being connected to said at least one device; - Body (11), the body including a lower chamber (13); - A control member (18) movably disposed in the lower chamber (13) and defining, together with the body (11), a pressure chamber (23) connected to the fluid delivery network (2), the control member (18) further having an actuating rod (20) including an end portion (21) extending outside the lower chamber (13), the control member (18) being configured to move in the lower chamber (13) between a first position and a second position of the control member under the action of a pressurized fluid, in the first position being deactivated or activated, and in the second position being activated or deactivated; - Contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532), the contact mechanism is configured such that the end portion (21) of the actuating rod (20) moves between a first position and a second position, in the first position of the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) Disconnect or connect the activation and deactivation component (31), and in the second position of the contact mechanism, the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) connects or disconnects the activation and deactivation component (31); The activation and deactivation device (9) is configured as follows: - When the pressure fluid is below the lower limit threshold or the upper limit threshold, a first configuration is adopted, in which the control member (18) and the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) are in their respective first positions or between their respective first and second positions; - When the pressure fluid reaches the upper limit threshold of the fluid pressure, a second configuration is adopted, in which the control member (18) and the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) are in their respective second positions; The activation and deactivation device (9) is characterized in that it further includes a holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434; 534) and a return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533), wherein the holding mechanism is configured to hold the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) in a second position of the contact mechanism, and the return mechanism is configured to move the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) from the second position where the contact mechanism is held to a first position; Furthermore, the activation and deactivation device (9) is configured to adopt a third configuration when the pressure fluid is below the upper limit threshold of the fluid pressure and above the middle threshold of the fluid pressure, the middle threshold of the fluid pressure being greater than the lower limit threshold of the fluid pressure. In the third configuration, the control member (18) is in an intermediate position between the first and second positions of the control member, and the holding mechanism (34; 134; 234; 334; 434; 534) resists the action of the return mechanism (33; 333; 433; 533) and holds the contact mechanism (32; 132; 232; 332; 432; 532) in its second position.

Images