Valve for a lung demand valve

Abstract

The invention relates to a valve (100) for a lung demand valve (400), with a valve chamber (110) in which a spring-loaded piston (112) is arranged, which closes a downstream valve opening (116) of the valve chamber in a closed position of the valve, wherein the valve chamber can be brought into a fluidic connection with an external gas source via an injection port (118) with an injection opening (119). Furthermore, the valve has a valve outlet contour (120) formed downstream in the area of ​​the valve opening.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a valve for a lung-feeder device. Furthermore, the invention relates to a lung-feeder device and a method for manufacturing a valve for a lung-feeder device.

[0002] In general, demand valves are known to regulate a safe air supply to a breathing mask, such as the demand valve for a self-contained breathing apparatus commonly used by firefighters. Typically, such demand valves have a valve that ensures a constant positive pressure in the breathing mask, such as a firefighter's mask. The airflow profile behind the demand valve is defined by a corresponding outlet contour.

[0003] Given the great dependence of the wearer of the breathing mask on the functionality of the lung regulator, such lung regulators and their valves are regularly serviced.

[0004] EP2514484B1 describes an exemplary embodiment of a known lung demand valve in which a flow profile is provided in the connection area between the lung demand valve and the breathing mask via a valve and a corresponding output contour.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved valve for a lung demand valve, in particular a particularly reliable and easy-to-maintain valve for a lung demand valve.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, a valve for a lung demand valve is proposed to solve this problem, comprising a valve chamber and a valve outlet contour.

[0007] A spring-loaded piston is arranged in the valve chamber, which closes a downstream valve opening of the valve chamber in a closed position of the valve, whereby the valve chamber can be brought into a fluidic connection with an external gas source via an injection port with an injection opening.

[0008] The valve outlet contour is formed downstream in the area of ​​the valve opening and can, by means of a partial narrowing and a subsequent partial widening of a flow cross-section in the area of ​​the valve opening, utilize the Venturi effect to create a negative pressure in the area of ​​the valve outlet contour, wherein the valve chamber and the valve outlet contour are formed together as a single piece.

[0009] Within the scope of the invention, it was recognized that the maintenance of a conventional breathing apparatus is particularly complex due to the fact that the valve is made up of several individual parts. These multiple parts also lead to manufacturing tolerances and consequently to a lower component quality compared to a one-piece valve. The one-piece design of the valve chamber and valve outlet contour allows for particularly advantageous, easy removal of the valve from the breathing apparatus for maintenance and / or cleaning purposes. After assembly of the breathing apparatus, the use of a single component according to the invention eliminates the need for valve readjustment or, at most, readjustment of the spring-loaded piston. Furthermore, such a one-piece design of the valve chamber and valve outlet contour is particularly robust and reliable, making damage during use with a breathing mask unlikely.Furthermore, such a one-piece design has fewer crevices where dirt or similar substances can accumulate. Finally, the drying time after cleaning is also shorter due to the smaller surface area.

[0010] The targeted generation of a negative pressure by utilizing the Venturi effect allows for precise and reliable interaction with other components of the lung-feed device, such as a diaphragm located upstream of the valve, which controls the valve's opening. The one-piece design of the valve chamber and valve outlet contour, particularly through the utilization of the Venturi effect, enables such a flow profile, and thus the provision of negative pressure, to be reproduced with exceptional reliability. In particular, the reproducible flow profile prevents pneumatic oscillations during the interaction of the flow with other components of the lung-feed device.

[0011] The construction consisting of a valve chamber and valve outlet contour with gas exchange via the valve opening, together with the spring-mounted piston guided within the valve chamber, can represent a spring-damper system, so that pneumatically induced vibrations of the piston can be dampened within the framework of the inventive structure of the valve.

[0012] Finally, the one-piece design of the valve also allows the lung regulator to function under extreme conditions, such as after an impact and / or shaking of the lung regulator.

[0013] The use of fewer components for the lung demand valve compared to known lung demand valves also allows for simpler manufacturing of the valve and the lung demand valve equipped with this valve.

[0014] Finally, by using fewer components for the lung regulator, sealing measures between the components, such as O-rings, can be at least partially dispensed with.

[0015] The design of the valve chamber with an injection port is generally known to those skilled in the art, so different embodiments of the injection port will not be discussed below.

[0016] The external gas source is preferably a compressed air cylinder, such as those used by fire departments and / or in diving applications.

[0017] According to the invention, the partial narrowing and widening of the flow cross-section in the area of ​​the valve opening lead to the Venturi effect due to the similarity of parts of the valve outlet contour to a known Venturi nozzle. A Venturi nozzle is also known to have a narrowing followed by a widening of the provided flow cross-section, thereby generating a particularly high flow rate in the edge region of the flow cross-section. According to the invention, a vacuum is created by the evacuation of the space in front of the valve.

[0018] Within the scope of this invention, the partial narrowing and widening of the flow cross-section is to be understood as such that the flow generated behind the valve exhibits at least partially comparable properties to a flow behind a Venturi nozzle. For this purpose, a narrowing and widening in partial regions of the flow cross-section is sufficient, without the valve according to the invention having a conventional Venturi nozzle. Alternatively or additionally, the valve according to the invention can have a conventional Venturi nozzle.

[0019] Preferred embodiments of the valve according to the invention are described below.

[0020] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the valve outlet contour is designed to create a negative pressure with only a first portion of the flow from the valve opening via the partial narrowing and subsequent partial widening, while simultaneously homogenizing the flow with a second portion via at least one deflecting structure of the valve outlet contour. This homogenization of the flow, as achieved in this embodiment, provides a particularly comfortable flow profile for the user of a breathing mask positioned downstream of the valve. In particular, the utilization of the Venturi effect can be combined with a uniform gas flow into the breathing mask connected to the valve.The partial narrowing and subsequent partial widening allows a precisely defined airflow to be used for a fluidic connection with other components of the lung regulator within the framework of the Venturi effect, without the high flow velocities of a classic Venturi nozzle being directed to the wearer of the breathing mask.

[0021] In an advantageous embodiment of the preceding design, the deflection structure of the valve outlet contour is formed by an edge, a ring, and / or a number of holes. Such deflection structures can be provided particularly easily, for example, by 3D printing the valve outlet contour. Furthermore, such deflection structures allow for particularly efficient flow homogenization. Preferably, the deflection structure is part of the valve outlet contour and is formed integrally with it. Alternatively or additionally, an external deflection element can be provided in the area of ​​the valve outlet contour to homogenize the flow.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the valve outlet contour comprises a plurality of substantially rotationally symmetrical Venturi nozzle segments. These Venturi nozzle segments result in the partial narrowing and partial widening of the flow cross-section downstream of the valve opening, as described in the invention. The widening of the flow cross-section can be achieved by an abrupt nozzle end. The Venturi nozzle segments serve to direct the flow outwards, thereby dividing the resulting flow into a portion that generates a negative pressure through the Venturi effect and another portion that is guided directly and homogeneously via the deflection structure into the mask for the breathing apparatus wearer. The rotationally symmetrical arrangement of these Venturi nozzle segments reduces the influence of the valve's orientation on the resulting flow profile, given the potential for valve rotation during operation.Furthermore, this rotationally symmetrical arrangement allows for a particularly reliable smoothing of the flow, as individual pressure peaks are avoided.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the valve according to the invention, the valve outlet contour is designed such that there is no complete rotational symmetry along a valve axis. In this embodiment, the valve outlet contour advantageously allows for individual adjustment of its orientation to the needs of a wearer of the corresponding breathing mask connected to the valve. Preferably, in this embodiment, the valve outlet contour is formed with the deflection structure, and the deflection structure does not exhibit complete rotational symmetry. Avoiding rotational symmetry, in particular avoiding the rotational symmetry of the deflection structure, can lead to a particularly reliable smoothing of the flow due to nonlinear effects. In this embodiment, the valve axis is an axis extending in the direction of extension of the valve chamber, such as an axis extending along the piston.

[0024] In a particularly preferred embodiment, a flow straightener, in particular a grid, is arranged on the valve outlet contour to homogenize at least a portion of the flow from the valve opening. In this context, it is conceivable that, during manufacturing by means of a 3D printing process, the flow straightener is directly integrated into the valve and / or the valve outlet contour.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, in addition to the flow straightener, the deflecting structure is arranged at the valve outlet contour. A flow straightener, as defined in this embodiment, is any flat, partially permeable geometry that dampens and homogenizes turbulence, such as a grid. By using the flow straightener, in particular a wire grid, it can be reliably ensured that no excessively strong flows reach the wearer of the breathing mask. The grid width is preferably adapted to typical flow velocities downstream of the valve. The flow straightener is preferably a separate component that is arranged at the valve outlet contour via a connection, such as a positive-locking or force-locking connection.As a separate component, the flow straightener can be cleaned particularly easily, and a grid structure, especially a flow resistance of the grid structure, can be adapted to the individual needs of a user of the valve.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the valve chamber is essentially cylindrical, with the valve opening located in the region of a cylinder axis within the valve chamber. Such a cylindrical valve chamber allows for particularly simple piston mounting and a homogeneous pressure distribution within the valve chamber. The cylindrical shape prevents excessive stress on individual areas of the valve chamber, thus enabling a long service life for the valve according to the invention. Finally, the cylindrical valve chamber allows for a smaller installation size for the valve according to the invention.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment, a plurality of injection channels are provided in the area of ​​the injection port on the valve chamber for the uniform injection of a supplied gas into the valve chamber. Providing a plurality of injection channels in the area of ​​the injection port is particularly advantageous. The gas to be supplied can be introduced into the valve chamber particularly uniformly via the plurality of injection channels. The injection channels can, for example, be connected to an annular channel. Pneumatic compensation for a pressure loss in the annular channel can be enabled, for example, by variable diameters of these injection channels. A flow divider can also support a uniform flow through the annular channel. Particularly preferably, the injection channels together with the annular channel are an integral part of the one-piece component comprising the valve chamber and the valve outer contour.

[0028] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the valve according to the invention is manufactured using a 3D printing process. This embodiment advantageously utilizes the fact that the 3D printing process is particularly suitable for manufacturing complexly structured components. Since the valve according to the invention has a complex structure due to the one-piece design of the valve chamber and valve outlet contour, manufacturing via the 3D printing process ensures a particularly simple and cost-effective provision of the valve. Finally, the use of the 3D printing process allows for particularly reliable automation of the valve's manufacturing. Furthermore, the use of the 3D printing process allows for variation in the exact geometric structure of the valve's outer contour, such as the height and / or angle of attack of a deflection structure and / or the Venturi nozzle segments.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the invention, a lung-regulating device with a valve according to at least one of the preceding embodiments is proposed to solve the aforementioned problem. The spring-mounted piston is connected to a diaphragm via a lever device, such that the valve is in a closed or an open position depending on the current position of the diaphragm.

[0030] The demand valve according to the second aspect of the invention incorporates the valve according to the first aspect of the invention and thus all the advantages of this valve. In particular, the demand valve according to the second aspect of the invention enables particularly easy maintenance of the demand valve due to the simple and robust design of the valve. Furthermore, the robust design of the valve ensures reliable operation of the demand valve even under extreme conditions, such as after an impact or shaking of the valve.

[0031] A possible arrangement of the piston and lever device relative to each other, as well as a connection of the lever device to the diaphragm, are shown in the exemplary embodiments in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 is shown in detail. Furthermore, such lever devices are known to those skilled in the art within a lung-regulating device.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment of the breathing apparatus according to the second aspect of the invention, atmospheric pressure is present on a first side of the diaphragm, and a negative pressure caused by the valve outlet contour can be present on an opposite second side of the diaphragm via a corresponding fluidic connection. The negative pressure can also be present due to inhalation by the user of the breathing apparatus. In this embodiment, the negative pressure caused by the valve outlet contour is advantageously used for interaction with the diaphragm of the breathing apparatus. This allows the negative pressure resulting from the Venturi effect to enable particularly precise control of the diaphragm, and in particular a particularly stable relationship between the control of the diaphragm and the volume flow rate provided by the valve.In this embodiment, it is particularly advantageous that the valve outlet contour generates a particularly stable, local negative pressure. This ensures that even with large volume flows, such as those that can occur during rapid breathing, a reliable supply of breathing gas is guaranteed, since the diaphragm, via the lever mechanism, can lead to a larger valve opening and thus a greater volume flow.

[0033] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for manufacturing a valve for a lung-feeder device is proposed to solve the aforementioned problem. The method comprises the following steps: - Providing a one-piece body that forms a valve chamber and a valve outlet contour of the valve, - Arranging a spring-mounted piston in the valve chamber, wherein the piston closes a downstream valve opening of the valve chamber in a closed position of the valve, and wherein the valve chamber can be brought into fluidic communication with an external gas source via an injection port with an injection opening, and wherein the downstream valve outlet contour formed in the region of the valve opening is provided in such a way that a vacuum can be caused in the region of the valve outlet contour by means of a partial narrowing and a subsequent partial widening of a flow cross-section in the region of the valve opening by utilizing the Venturi effect.

[0034] The method according to the third aspect of the invention is carried out by a valve according to the first aspect of the invention and therefore also includes the advantages of this valve. In particular, the provision of the one-piece body allows for a particularly robust structure of the manufactured valve.

[0035] Preferably, the first step, i.e., providing the one-piece body, takes place before arranging the spring-loaded piston in the valve chamber. Preferably, the method according to the invention is carried out as part of the manufacture of a breathing apparatus in which the valve is arranged. In this context, the method can be supplemented by further steps that may arise in connection with the installation of the valve in the rest of the breathing apparatus, such as steps for securing the valve within the breathing apparatus.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, this method further comprises the arrangement of a flow straightener on the valve outlet contour to homogenize at least a portion of the flow from the valve opening. This additional method step is preferably carried out after the arrangement of the spring-mounted piston. The arrangement of the flow straightener can, for example, include a positive-locking or force-locking connection of the flow straightener to the valve outlet contour.

[0037] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, this method comprises at least a 3D printing process. Preferably, the provision of the one-piece body, which forms the valve chamber and the valve outlet contour, is carried out by means of the 3D printing process. This allows the one-piece body to be provided with particularly precise reproducibility. In particular, the 3D printing process allows for particularly simple automation of the method according to the invention.

[0038] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a computer program with program code for carrying out a method according to the third aspect of the invention, in particular a 3D printing method for manufacturing a valve according to the first aspect of the invention, is proposed to solve the aforementioned problem. The program code is executed on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component. Preferably, several steps of the method according to the invention are executed by a common computer, a common processor, or a common programmable hardware component. Preferably, the individual steps are separated from each other, at least at the software level, by corresponding software blocks.Particularly preferably, all steps of the method according to the invention are performed on or supported by a common computer, a common processor or a common programmable hardware component.

[0039] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to advantageous embodiments schematically illustrated in the figures. These show, in detail: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a valve according to a first aspect of the invention; Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a second embodiment of the valve according to the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 3 a frontal view of a third embodiment of the valve according to the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 4 a sectional view of a rear view of the third embodiment of the valve with an injection port according to the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 5, Fig. 6 a representation of an embodiment of a lung demand valve according to a second aspect of the invention with the third embodiment of the valve, wherein the lung demand valve is shown in a planar sectional view ( Fig. 5) and is shown in a perspective sectional view ( Fig. 6); Fig. 7 a flowchart of an embodiment of a method according to a third aspect of the invention.

[0040] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a valve 100 according to a first aspect of the invention.

[0041] The Valve 100 is for a lung demand valve, such as those used in Fig. The valve 100 is designed as shown in Figure 5. For this purpose, the valve 100 comprises a valve chamber 110 in which a spring-loaded piston 112 is arranged. The spring-loaded piston 112 is preferably in contact with the valve chamber 110 via a spring 114. Depending on whether a force is applied to the spring-loaded piston 112, a downstream valve opening 116 of the valve chamber 110 is closed by the piston 112 when the valve 100 is in the closed position. The valve chamber 110 is cylindrical in this case, and an injection port 118 with an injection opening 119 is provided on the corresponding surface of the valve chamber 110. This injection port can be connected to an external gas source. The injection port 118 has a positive-locking injection connection (not shown) for securely connecting the injection port to the external gas source.Such form-fitting injection connections are known from commercially available lung-feed devices and are therefore not described in detail below.

[0042] Downstream in the region of the valve opening 116, a valve outlet contour 120 is formed according to the invention. The valve chamber 110 and the valve outlet contour 120 form a single component of the valve 100. The valve outlet contour 120, by virtue of its shape—namely, a partial narrowing 122 and a subsequent partial widening 124 of a flow cross-section 125 in the region of the valve opening 116—allows for the reliable provision of a vacuum, in particular a vacuum dependent on the airflow at the valve opening 116, by utilizing the Venturi effect. The vacuum can, for example, be used to reliably control the degree of opening of the valve opening 116 by the piston 112 via a fluidic connection, as is the case, for example, in the context of Fig. 5 is described.

[0043] In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. Figure 1 shows the partial narrowing 122 and the subsequent partial widening 124 of the flow cross-section 125 in the longitudinal section shown on both sides of a cylinder axis 126 of the valve chamber 110. In other embodiments, a narrowing followed by a widening may be present in one region of the flow cross-section 125, while in the same flow cross-section, a widening parallel to this narrowing is present for a different flow path. In this sense, a partial narrowing and a partial widening are present because they only represent parts of a flow from the valve opening 116.

[0044] Finally, in Fig. It can also be seen that the valve opening 116 is preferably formed in the region of the cylinder axis 126 of the valve chamber 110. In embodiments not shown, the valve opening can also be arranged outside the cylinder axis.

[0045] In the preferred embodiments shown in the description of the figures, the valve outlet contour 120 additionally features at least one deflecting structure 130, which is intended to contribute to a more uniform flow downstream of the valve outlet contour 120. This helps to avoid pressure peaks within the flow cross-section perceived by the user, thereby improving user comfort. In this case, the deflecting structure 130 is an edge 132. In principle, the deflecting structure 130 can be an edge, a ring, a number of holes, or the like. In embodiments of the valve according to the invention not shown, the valve outlet contour can also be without a deflecting structure. In further embodiments not shown, a deflecting element is arranged as an external component in the region of the valve outlet contour to further promote a more uniform flow.

[0046] The in Fig. The components of the valve shown in Figure 1 do not yet depict details for the installation of the valve in a device surrounding it, such as preferably a lung-control device. For this purpose, the valve preferably also has specific installation characteristics, such as connection holes, locking areas, a valve chamber contour, or the like. An exemplary embodiment with such details is shown in Figure 1. Fig. 6 shown.

[0047] Finally, it shows Fig. 1 also lacks a mechanism for controlling the spring-mounted piston 112. This mechanism is in Fig. 1 omitted for clarity. The piston can be moved via a lever mechanism, such as those found in Fig. As shown in detail in Figure 5, the piston can be controlled along the cylinder axis 125. Alternatively or additionally, the piston can also be moved in a direction outside the cylinder axis during the opening or closing of the valve opening. In principle, it follows from the description of the invention that it can exist independently of details of the piston movement within the valve and can therefore be used for valves of various designs.

[0048] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a second embodiment of valve 200 according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0049] The valve 200 differs from the one in Fig. The valve 100 shown in Figure 1 is designed, among other things, by the valve outlet contour 220 being configured such that only a first part of the flow 240 from the valve opening 216, via the partial narrowing 122 and the subsequent partial widening 124, creates a negative pressure. Simultaneously, a second part of the flow 245, via at least one deflecting structure 230 of the valve outlet contour 220, homogenizes this flow. In this case, the deflecting structure 230 is a ring 234 with an upstream ramp, at which the flow can spread out to homogenize. The two flows 240 and 245 are ideally represented by arrows, whereby these flows within a flow cross-section can be formed from several different and separate regions, depending on the configuration of the valve outlet contour 220.Physically, these two flows 240, 245 can be clearly distinguished based on their pressure profiles, since without the Venturi effect no special acceleration takes place for the second part of the flow 245.

[0050] The valve outlet contour 220, as the structural feature of the valve 200 that determines the flows 240, 245, comprises, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of Venturi nozzle segments 250 arranged substantially rotationally symmetrically around the cylinder axis 126. Parts of the deflection structure 230 are also arranged offset from the Venturi nozzle segments 250. In this embodiment, the cylinder axis 126 forms a valve axis 227 of the valve. Each such Venturi nozzle segment leads, for a portion of the flow, to the partial narrowing 122 and the subsequent partial widening 124 of the considered portion of the flow cross-section according to the invention. The rotationally symmetrical arrangement allows for particularly efficient homogenization of the flow downstream of the valve outlet contour 220. In this embodiment, there are at least 3, in particular at least 4, and most preferably at least 5 Venturi nozzle segments.

[0051] The Venturi nozzle segments 250 can be slightly twisted to generate a flow component in the tangential direction in addition to a flow direction along the cylinder axis 126. This leads to a sensitivity of the Venturi effect to back pressure, such as that which occurs at the end of an inspiration phase.

[0052] The angle of attack of the valve outlet contour in the area of ​​the venturi nozzle segments 250 is preferably between 0° and 90°, in particular between 0° and 60°, relative to the cylinder axis 126.

[0053] Fig. Figure 3 shows a frontal view of a third embodiment of the valve 300 according to the first aspect of the invention. The frontal view is taken from a direction opposite to the flow direction, so that a piston passage into the valve chamber 310 and the valve opening 316, which appears here as a free cross-section, are directly visible, without showing the spring-mounted piston.

[0054] The in Fig. The valve outlet contour 320 of valve 300, which can be identified, differs from that shown in Fig. The valve outlet contour 220 shown in Figure 2 is distinguished by the fact that the valve outlet contour 320 does not exhibit complete rotational symmetry along a valve axis, such as the cylinder axis (not shown here). Avoiding rotational symmetry can facilitate a rapid equalization of the flow velocities downstream of the valve outlet contour. In this case, rotational symmetry is avoided by a non-rotationally symmetrical arrangement of elements of the deflection structure 330.

[0055] Basically, the 300 valve is the same as the 100 and 200 valves from the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, preferably manufactured by a 3D printing process. Such a 3D printing process allows even complex structures to be reliably and reproducibly manufactured in large quantities. This enables the highly detailed design of structures for the valve outlet contour 320, particularly suitable for homogenization and / or the Venturi effect, for a specific application, without increasing the production costs of the valve 300. Therefore, in particular, 3D printing the one-piece component forming the valve chamber and valve outlet contour 320 can greatly simplify the manufacturing process of the valve 300.

[0056] Fig. Figure 4 shows a sectional view of a rear view of the third embodiment of the valve 300 with an injection port 318 according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0057] The rear view from Fig. Figure 4 shows an exactly opposite perspective compared to the frontal view from Fig. 3, so that unlike in Fig. 3. The valve chamber 310 and the valve outlet contour 320 are not visible. The view shows the flow path from the external gas source 335 into a flow path leading to the valve chamber. In the illustrated embodiment, this flow path is via an annular channel 336, which has a plurality of injection channels 338 for injecting the gas into the valve chamber 310.

[0058] The multiple injection channels 338 ensure a uniform flow to the valve seat. This promotes a rotationally symmetrical outflow from the valve opening.

[0059] The majority of injection channels 338 in this case comprise four injection channels 338. In principle, at least two injection channels are advantageous. Each of the described embodiments can have one or more injection channels.

[0060] A pressure loss through the annular channel 336 can be compensated for, for example, by different diameters of the injection channels 338. The injection channels 338 can be round and / or have other cross-sections, such as a square cross-section.

[0061] To enable a uniform flow into the injection channels 338, a flow divider 339 is also provided directly downstream of the injection port 318.

[0062] The Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 shows an embodiment of a lung demand valve 400 according to a second aspect of the invention with the third embodiment of the valve 300, wherein the lung demand valve 400 is shown in a planar sectional view ( Fig. 5) and is shown in a perspective sectional view ( Fig. 6).

[0063] The demand valve 400 with the valve 300 comprises the spring-mounted piston 212 such that it is connected to a diaphragm 470 via a lever device 460. Depending on the current position of the diaphragm 470, the valve 300 is either closed or open. The position of the diaphragm 470 is directly determined by the ratio between the spring force of a diaphragm spring 472 connected to the diaphragm 470 and the negative pressure present within the mask supplied with air by the demand valve 400. Atmospheric pressure is present on the side of the diaphragm 470 opposite the negative pressure, next to the diaphragm spring 472.Therefore, by selectively generating a defined negative pressure through the Venturi effect behind the valve 300 and a fluidic connection between the valve 300 and the diaphragm 470, the position of the diaphragm 470, and consequently the position of the spring-loaded piston 212 via the lever mechanism, can be adjusted. Thus, a large negative pressure can be generated by a rapid and / or deep inhalation by the user of the lung-regulating device 400 according to the invention. This negative pressure, via the piston position of the piston 212, leads to a greater flow through the valve opening 316 and thus to a greater negative pressure due to the Venturi effect. This greater negative pressure can, in turn, influence the piston position in such a way that the flow through the valve opening 316 is further increased. In this sense, the valve outlet contour enables a high degree of dynamics in the supplied volume flows.The valve outlet contour 320 thus contributes to a safe supply of breathing air via the Venturi effect, even with high breathing air consumption, such as in a particularly strenuous physical situation.

[0064] In Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 further shows that, in addition to the valve outlet contour 320 with the deflecting structure 330, a flow straightener 480, in particular a wire mesh, arranged on the valve outlet contour 320 can also contribute to smoothing at least a portion of the flow from the valve opening 316. The flow straightener 480 is arranged on the valve outlet contour 320 via a positive-locking connection with a retaining cap. This allows the flow straightener 480 to be replaced and / or cleaned separately during maintenance. Alternatively, the flow straightener can also be connected to the valve outlet contour by friction or material bonding. When manufactured using a 3D printing process, it is generally conceivable that the flow straightener is integrated directly into the valve and / or the valve outlet contour without the need for additional parts, such as a retaining cap.

[0065] In an alternative or supplementary embodiment not shown, the flow straightener is provided outside the valve, such as in a connection area between the lung demand valve and the mask, to equalize the supplied fluid flow.

[0066] In principle, the following can be seen from the in Fig. 5 and Fig. The majority of components are recognizable, and the effort involved in maintaining the lung-feeder also presents a challenge. Small parts, in particular, might need to be manually cleaned and correctly reassembled. Against this background, the advantage of providing a single component for the valve chamber 310 and the valve outlet contour 320, as described in the invention, becomes apparent. This eliminates the need to clean small parts of the valve and reduces the assembly time for mounting the valve 300.

[0067] Fig. Figure 6 shows, by means of a perspective view, how the various components of the lung regulator 400 are arranged in relation to one another and at least partially to a housing 490 of the lung regulator 400, and are in fluidic contact with one another. The arrangement shown is merely exemplary. In particular, the valve 300 can be installed differently in various lung regulator structures without this changing the structure of the valve and / or the lung regulator according to the invention.

[0068] Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method 600 according to a third aspect of the invention.

[0069] Method 600 is designed for manufacturing a valve for a lung demand valve. Method 600 comprises the following process steps.

[0070] A first step 610 includes providing a one-piece body which forms a valve chamber and a valve outlet contour of the valve.

[0071] A further step 620 comprises arranging a spring-mounted piston in the valve chamber, wherein the piston closes a downstream valve opening of the valve chamber in a closed position of the valve, and wherein the valve chamber can be brought into fluidic communication with an external gas source via an injection port with an injection opening, and wherein the downstream valve outlet contour formed in the region of the valve opening is provided such that a negative pressure can be caused in the region of the valve outlet contour by means of a partial narrowing and a subsequent partial widening of a flow cross-section in the region of the valve opening, utilizing the Venturi effect.

[0072] The two steps 610 and 620 are typically performed in this order as part of the manufacture of the valve and / or the manufacture of the lung regulator equipped with the valve.

[0073] Particularly preferred is the production of at least the one-piece body, which forms the valve chamber and the valve outlet contour of the valve, using a 3D printing process. A suitable instruction is preferably supplied to a 3D printer in digital form so that it prints the one-piece body according to the invention. Materials known for 3D printing, in particular known plastics, ceramics and / or metals, can be used as the material. Such plastics, ceramics and / or metals typically possess a stability suitable for the valve according to the invention.

[0074] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, a flow straightener is further arranged on the valve outlet contour to homogenize at least a portion of the flow from the valve opening. This step is preferably carried out after the arrangement of the spring-mounted piston according to step 620. The arrangement of the flow straightener, in particular a grid, is particularly preferred as a final step in the manufacture of the valve. This arrangement can be effected via a friction-fit, positive-fit, and / or material-fit connection. The arrangement of the flow straightener on the valve outlet contour is particularly preferred via a positive-fit connection, such as a screw and / or snap-fit ​​connection. Such a positive-fit connection can particularly advantageously enable simple maintenance and thus allow for repeated execution of this process step. Reference symbol list 100, 200, 300 valve 110, 210, 310 Valve chamber 112, 212 spring-mounted piston 114 spring 116, 216, 316 Valve opening 118, 318 Injection port 119 Injection port 120, 220, 320 Valve outlet contour 122 partial rejuvenation 124 partial widening 125 Flow cross-section 126 cylinder axle 130, 230, 330 deflection structure 132 edge 227 Valve shaft 234 Ring 240 first part of the flow 245 second part of the flow 250 Venturi nozzle segment 335 external gas source 336 Ring channel 338 Injection channel 339 Flow dividers 400 lung demand valve 460 Lever device 470 Membran 472 Membrane spring 480 Flow straighteners 490 cases 600 procedures 610, 620 procedural steps QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 2514484B1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Valve (100) for a lung demand valve (400), with: a valve chamber (110) in which a spring-loaded piston (112) is arranged, which closes a downstream valve opening (116) of the valve chamber (110) in a closed position of the valve (100), wherein the valve chamber (110) can be brought into fluidic communication with an external gas source (335) via an injection port (118) with an injection opening (119), and with a valve outlet contour (120) formed downstream in the area of ​​the valve opening (116), which can cause a negative pressure in the area of ​​the valve outlet contour (120) by means of a partial narrowing (122) and a subsequent partial widening (124) of a flow cross-section (125) in the area of ​​the valve opening (116) by utilizing the Venturi effect, wherein the valve chamber (110) and the valve outlet contour (120) are formed together in one piece. [2] Valve (100) according to claim 1, wherein the valve outlet contour (120) is designed to cause a negative pressure only with a first part of the flow (240) from the valve opening (116) via the partial narrowing (122) and the subsequent partial widening (124) and simultaneously to cause a homogenization of this flow with a second part of the flow (245) via at least one deflecting structure (130) of the valve outlet contour (120), wherein the deflection structure (130) of the valve outlet contour (120) is formed by an edge (132), a ring (234) and / or a number of holes. [3] Valve (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, • wherein the valve outlet contour (120) comprises a plurality of substantially rotationally symmetric venturi nozzle segments (250) or • wherein the valve outlet contour (120) is designed such that there is no complete rotational symmetry along a valve axis (227). [4] Valve (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, • wherein a flow straightener (480) is arranged on the valve outlet contour (120) to equalize at least a part of the flow from the valve opening (116); or • wherein the valve chamber (110) is essentially cylindrical and the valve opening (116) is formed in the region of a cylindrical axis (126) of the valve chamber (110); or • wherein in the area of ​​the injection opening (119) on the valve chamber (110) a plurality of injection channels (338) are formed for the uniform injection of a gas to be provided into the valve chamber (110). [5] Lung regulator (400) with a valve (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring-mounted piston (112) is connected to a diaphragm (470) via a lever device (460), so that, depending on the current position of the diaphragm (470), the valve (100) is in a closed position or in an open position. [6] Lung regulator (400) according to claim 5, wherein atmospheric pressure is applied to a first side of the diaphragm (470) and a negative pressure caused by the valve outlet contour (120) can be applied to an opposite second side of the diaphragm (470) via a corresponding fluidic connection. [7] Method (600) for manufacturing a valve (100) for a lung demand valve (400), comprising the steps - Providing a one-piece body which forms a valve chamber (110) and a valve outlet contour (120) of the valve (100); - Arranging a spring-mounted piston (112) in the valve chamber (110), wherein the piston (112) closes a downstream valve opening (116) of the valve chamber (110) in a closed position of the valve (100), and wherein the valve chamber (110) can be brought into fluidic communication with an external gas source (335) via an injection port (118) with an injection opening (119), and wherein the downstream valve outlet contour (120) is provided such that a negative pressure can be caused in the area of ​​the valve outlet contour (120) by means of a partial narrowing (122) and a subsequent partial widening (124) of a flow cross-section (125) in the area of ​​the valve opening (116) by utilizing the Venturi effect. [8] Method (600) according to claim 7, further comprising an arrangement of a flow straightener (480) on the valve outlet contour (120) to equalize at least a part of the flow from the valve opening (116). [9] Valve (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, as well as lung regulator (400) according to claim 5 or according to claim 6, as well as methods (600) according to claim 7 or according to claim 8 • wherein the valve (100) is manufactured by a 3D printing process; • wherein the lung regulator (400) is manufactured by a 3D printing process; • wherein the process (600) includes a 3D printing process. [10] Computer program comprising program code for carrying out a method (600) according to claim 9, in particular for carrying out a 3D printing method according to at least one of claims 1 to 9, when the program code is executed on a computer, a processor or a programmable hardware component.

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