PROTECTION DEVICE AND METHOD FOR A GAS CYLINDER TAP, SYSTEM COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the protection of gas container valves, in particular air containers intended for breathing apparatus, and more particularly the air containers of individual breathing apparatus used by firefighters. KR10205371881 discloses such a valve protection device. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Gas containers are currently used in various fields. For example, butane or propane containers are used for domestic use. In professional environments, such as the medical field, air or oxygen containers can be used. For industrial activities, gas containers can be used for acetylene welding. Air containers can also be used for sports, such as scuba diving.

[0003] Generally, these gas containers are used with valves to control the passage of gas, in particular to stop or modify the gas flow rate at the outlet of the valve. A valve comprises a gas flow path provided with an inlet connector intended to be physically coupled to the gas container and an outlet connector coupled only to the inlet connectors and configured to be fluidically coupled into an external device, for example a mask or a welding device. Furthermore, the valve comprises a movable shutter for controlling the passage of gas within the outlet connector and an actuator capable of moving the shutter.

[0004] In particular, these gas containers are intended to store gas under pressure. Furthermore, when these gas containers are not in use, they are generally stored with the valve mounted on the container and the actuator in a closed position to keep the gas under pressure. However, during storage, dust and debris may clog the outlet connection. Furthermore, during storage, the valve may open, for example by inadvertent action, during shocks, or by vibrations.

[0005] Furthermore, a specific use of a gas container may be necessary for firefighters. In particular, firefighters use individual breathing apparatus (ARI) comprising an air container equipped with a valve and a mask fluidically coupled to the outlet connector of the ARI. In general, the ARI also includes a bib, on which the air container is attached, adapted to allow the user to carry the container on their back. During operational engagement, that is to say when a firefighter wishes to use their ARI for an intervention requiring breathing using the air container, for example in the presence of smoke, the firefighter carries out a quick check of their equipment. Opening the air container valve and checking the available pressure are part of this check and are essential for their safety.He must therefore check the operational condition of the container before use. In addition, after each use, the containers are reconditioned, i.e. filled with pressurized air, and stored with the valve closed until the engagement phase.

[0006] It is therefore useful to be able to protect the valve to prevent accidental opening of the actuator, and advantageously to prevent dirt and grime from obstructing the valve outlet connection, particularly during storage phases. Furthermore, firefighters can also load air containers onto trucks before use. More specifically, containers equipped with the valve loaded onto trucks can be connected to the SCBA beforehand, in order to shorten response time.

[0007] So, there are suitable caps that fit over the faucet outlet fitting to protect the outlet fitting from dust and debris. However, these caps do not prevent the faucet from opening.

[0008] There are also impact protection covers designed to be positioned on the faucet actuator. However, these covers are poorly mechanically fitted to the faucet and do not effectively prevent accidental opening of the faucet. Furthermore, such covers can easily be removed from the actuator, for example, due to impact or vibration. Furthermore, these covers do not protect the faucet outlet connection from debris and dirt.

[0009] An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a device for protecting a gas container valve by preventing untimely removal of the device in the event of shocks or vibrations.

[0010] Another object is to provide a device that can be easily removed by voluntary action of the user.

[0011] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. It is understood that other advantages may be incorporated. SUMMARY

[0012] To achieve this objective, there is provided a protection device for a gas container valve, the valve comprising a body having an inlet connection configured to be fluidly coupled to a gas container, and an outlet connection configured to be fluidly coupled to an appliance, the valve comprising a movable shutter for controlling a passage of gas within the outlet connection from the inlet connection, and an actuator adapted to move the shutter.

[0013] The device comprises a jaw having two parts mounted to move relative to each other, the jaw being configured to be in an open state in which the two parts delimit a space for positioning the actuator between the two parts, and a closed state in which the two parts at least partially cover the actuator and the two parts cooperate with the valve so as to block the device in translation relative to the body along a main axis.

[0014] Thus, a device for protecting a gas container valve is provided which makes it possible to improve the retention of the device on the valve, in order to prevent any untimely opening of the valve, for example in the event of shocks or vibrations. In particular, involuntary movement of the device along at least one translation axis is prevented.

[0015] According to another aspect, there is provided a system, comprising a gas container, a valve comprising a body having an inlet connection configured to be fluidly coupled to the gas container, and an outlet connection configured to be fluidly coupled to an appliance, the valve comprising a movable shutter for controlling a passage of gas within the outlet connection from the inlet connection, the system comprising a protection device as defined above.

[0016] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of protecting a gas container valve, the valve comprising a body having an inlet connection configured to be fluidly coupled to a gas container, and an outlet connection configured to be fluidly coupled to an appliance, the valve comprising a movable shutter for controlling a passage of gas within the outlet connection from the inlet connection, and an actuator adapted to move the shutter.

[0017] The method comprises opening a jaw having two parts mounted to move relative to each other, positioning the actuator between the two parts, and closing the jaw so that the two parts at least partially cover the actuator and the two parts cooperate with the valve so as to block the device in translation relative to the body along a main axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0018] The aims, objects, as well as the characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly from the detailed description of an embodiment thereof which is illustrated by the following accompanying drawings in which: There figure 1 schematically represents an exploded and perspective view of an embodiment of a protection device for a gas container valve; The figure 2schematically represents a perspective view of another embodiment in which a jaw of the device is in a closed state; The figure 3 schematically represents another perspective view of the device illustrated in the figure 2 , where the jaw is in an open state; The figure 4 schematically represents a top and perspective view of an embodiment of the protection device; and The Figure 5 schematically represents a perspective view of an embodiment of a system equipped with a protection device.

[0019] The drawings are given by way of example and are not limiting of the invention. They constitute schematic representations of principle intended to facilitate the understanding of the invention and are not necessarily to the scale of practical applications. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Before commencing a detailed review of embodiments and implementations of the invention, optional features which may possibly be used in combination or alternatively are set out below.

[0021] According to one example, the two parts are rotatably mounted on each other about an axis of rotation and when the jaw is in the closed state, the axis of rotation extends parallel to the main axis.

[0022] According to one example, at least one of the two parts comprises a main stop capable of coming into contact with the body, when the jaw is in the closed state, so as to lock the device relative to the body in at least one direction of rotation around the main axis. This improves the locking in position of the device relative to the body of the tap in at least one direction of rotation, while allowing easy opening of the device.

[0023] According to one example, at least one of the two, when the jaw is in the closed state, so as to block the device relative to the body in a direction of rotation opposite to said at least one direction of rotation.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the actuator is mounted on the body for rotation about a secondary axis, and at least one of the two parts comprises an anti-rotation lug configured to be inserted, when the jaw is in the closed state, into a complementary hollow provided on the actuator so as to block the actuator relative to the device in rotation about the secondary axis. Such a device is particularly suitable for preventing the valve from opening in the event of vibrations.

[0025] In one example, the major and minor axes are parallel.

[0026] According to one example, the device comprises a cap configured to cover the outlet fitting and to be removably mounted on at least one of the two parts. Such a cap makes it possible to protect the outlet fitting from possible dirt or debris.

[0027] According to one example, the device comprises a gripping strap mounted on at least one of the two parts. This facilitates the opening of the jaw, in particular when the gas container is attached to a bib and positioned on the user's back, and the device is not easily accessible.

[0028] In one example, a first part comprises the main stop and the gripping strap is mounted on the first part.

[0029] In one example, the device includes a member configured to seal the jaw in the closed state, and wherein at least one of the two portions includes a tab configured to engage a slot provided on the other portion, the tab including a through hole for passage of the member.

[0030] In one example, at least one of the two portions includes a pivot axis and the other portion includes a hook configured to partially grip the pivot axis so as to allow rotation of the other portion relative to the at least one of the two portions about the pivot axis, the hook being configured to allow physical separation of the two portions from each other. Thus, a device is provided that can be removed without destroying the device for reuse. Such a device does not prevent emergency opening of the jaw.

[0031] According to one example, when the jaw is in the closed state, the pivot axis extends parallel to the main axis.

[0032] According to one example, the actuator is mounted on the body for rotation about a secondary axis, and the method comprises, after closing the jaw, opening the jaw by moving at least one of the two parts perpendicular to the secondary axis.

[0033] In one example, the method includes removably mounting a cap on at least one of the two portions to cover the outlet fitting.

[0034] It is specified that in the context of the present invention, the expression "A fluidically coupled to B" or "A fluidically connected to B" is synonymous with "A is in fluidic connection with B" and does not necessarily mean that there is no member between A and B. Thus these expressions are understood to mean a fluidic connection between two elements, this connection being able or not to be direct, this means that it is possible that between a first device and a second device which are fluidically connected, a path of a fluid exists, this path being able or not to include other devices.

[0035] Conversely, in the context of the present invention, the term "fluidically connected directly" means a direct fluidic connection between two elements. This means that between a first device and a second device which are fluidically connected directly, no other member is present, other than a conduit or several conduits.

[0036] It is specified that in the context of the present invention, the term “fluidically placed” or “fluidically located” means a positioning of a device on the path of a fluid.

[0037] On the figures 1 to 4 , a protection device 1 is shown for a tap 2. Furthermore, on the Figure 5, a system 3 is shown comprising a gas container 4. For example, the gas may be air, oxygen, methane or propane. In particular, the container 4 is configured to maintain the gas it contains under pressure. For example, a pressure of approximately 300 bars. The valve 2 is configured to be fluidly coupled to the gas container 4. In particular, the valve 2 comprises a body 5 having an inlet connector 6 configured to be fluidly coupled to the gas container 4, and an outlet connector 7 configured to be fluidly coupled to a device 8 of the system 3. The device 8 may be a breathing mask. The system 3 may comprise a pipe 9 intended to fluidly connect the outlet connector 7 to the device 8, via a pressure regulator 50.

[0038] The valve 2 further comprises a movable shutter for controlling a passage of gas within the outlet connection 7 from the inlet connection 6. The shutter is not shown for simplification purposes. For example, the body 5 of the valve 2 comprises a seat intended to receive the shutter in a closed configuration. When the shutter is in the closed configuration, the valve 2 is also said to be closed. In the closed configuration, the shutter is in contact with the seat and the gas does not circulate within the body 5. When the shutter is moved away from the seat, the shutter is in an open configuration, and the valve 2 is said to be open. In the open configuration, the gas circulates within the body 5 and passes through the outlet connection 7.

[0039] Furthermore, the valve 2 comprises an actuator 10 capable of moving the shutter from the closed configuration to the open configuration, and vice versa.

[0040] More particularly, the device 1 comprises a jaw 11 having two parts 12, 13 mounted to move relative to each other. The jaw 11 is configured to be in an open state E1, as illustrated in figures 1 , 3 And 5 , in which the two parts 12, 13 delimit a space 14 for positioning the actuator 10 between the two parts 12, 13. Furthermore, the jaw 11 is configured to be in a closed state E2, as illustrated in figures 2 And 4, in which the two parts 12, 13 at least partially cover the actuator 10. For example, the two parts 12, 13 are configured to cover at least 50% of the external surface of the actuator 10, preferably at least 80%, and more preferably at least 90%, or even 100%. Furthermore, in the closed state E2, the two parts 12, 13 cooperate with the valve 2 so as to block the device 1 in translation relative to the body 5 along a main axis X1. More particularly, when the jaw 11 is in the closed state, the jaw 11 is removably mounted on the valve 2, and preferably on the actuator 10 of the valve 2.

[0041] By blocking in movement is meant a limitation of the movement of the device 1 relative to the tap 2, with a displacement tolerance, i.e. a certain clearance. The limitation may be a translational and / or rotational tolerance. For example, the translational tolerance is less than or equal to 1 cm, for example less than or equal to 0.5 cm, preferably less than or equal to 0.1 cm. Furthermore, the rotational tolerance may be less than or equal to 30°, for example less than or equal to 15°, preferably less than or equal to 1°.

[0042] Thus, when the device 1 is placed on the tap 2, and the jaw 11 is in the closed state, the actuator 10 is no longer accessible and the tap 2 is therefore protected.

[0043] For example, the two parts 12, 13 are rotatably mounted on each other about an axis of rotation A1. When the jaw 11 is in the closed state E2, the axis of rotation A1 extends parallel to the main axis X1.

[0044] Advantageously, at least one of the parts 12, 13 comprises a main stop 20 capable of coming into contact with the body 5, when the jaw 11 is in the closed state E2, so as to block the device 1 relative to the body 5 in a first direction of rotation S1 around the main axis X1.

[0045] According to another advantage, at least one of the parts 12, 13 comprises a secondary stop 21 capable of coming into contact with the body 5, when the 1 jaw 11 is in the closed state E2, so as to block the device relative to the body 5 in a second direction of rotation S2 opposite to the first direction of rotation S2.

[0046] For example, at least one of the parts 12, 13 comprises a tertiary stop 22 configured to cooperate with the body 5 so as to block the device 1 in translation relative to the body 5 along the main axis X1. Alternatively, a tertiary stop 22 is configured to cooperate with the actuator 10 so as to block the device 1 in translation relative to the body 5 along the main axis X1.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the actuator 10 is mounted on the body 5 for rotation about a secondary axis X2. In other words, the actuator 10 can be rotated about the secondary axis X2 so as to move the shutter from the open configuration to the closed configuration and vice versa. For example, the main axis X1 and the secondary axis X2 are parallel. According to another example, the secondary axis and the main axis X1 are coaxial, as illustrated in figures 1 And 4 .

[0048] Advantageously, at least one part 12, 13 comprises an anti-rotation lug, not shown for simplification purposes. The lug is configured to be introduced, when the jaw 11 is in the closed state E2, into a complementary hollow provided on the actuator 10 so as to block the actuator 10 relative to the device 1 in rotation around the secondary axis X2.

[0049] According to another advantage, the device comprises a plug 30 configured to cover the outlet connector 7. For example, the plug 30 comprises a hood 31 configured to obstruct the outlet connector 7. Advantageously, the plug 30 is configured to be removably mounted on at least one part 12, 13. For example, the plug 30 comprises a rod 32 extending longitudinally, and comprising an additional lug 33 at one end of the rod 32. The additional lug 33 is configured to be introduced through an orifice 34 provided on at least one part 12, 13, so as to keep the plug 30 mounted on the part 12, 13. In particular, on the figures 4 And 5 , the cap 30 has not been shown.

[0050] Furthermore, the device 1 may comprise a gripping strap 35 mounted on at least one part 12, 13. The gripping strap 35 allows the user to open the jaw 11 while having his fingers at a distance from the two parts 12, 13. That is to say, the gripping strap 35 allows the user to open the jaw 11 without having to place his fingers in contact with one of the two parts 12, 13. The gripping strap allows the jaw 11 to be opened when the container 4 is placed on the user's back. Such a device 1 is particularly suitable for emergency opening of the jaw 11. In other words, the user can open the jaw by pulling on the easily accessible gripping strap, even if the container 4 is carried on the user's back.

[0051] Preferably, the main stop 20 and the gripping strap 35 are mounted on the same first part 12. This makes it easier to open the jaw 11. Advantageously, the gripping strap 35 and the main stops 20, secondary stops 21 and tertiary stops 22 are mounted on the same first part 12. As a variant, the main stops 20 and secondary stops 21 are mounted on the first part 12 and a tertiary stop 22 on the second part 13. According to yet another variant, a tertiary stop 22 is mounted on each part 12, 13.

[0052] The device 1 may further comprise a member 36 configured to seal the jaw 11 in the closed state E2, as illustrated in figure 4. For example, at least one part 12, 13 comprises a tab 37 configured to be inserted into a slot 38 provided on the other part 13, 12. The tab 12 comprises a through hole 39 for passage of the member 36. Thus, to seal the opening of the jaw 11, the jaw 11 is closed and the member 36 is passed through the through hole 39.

[0053] According to another example, at least one part 12, 13 comprises a pivot axis B1 and the other part 13, 12 comprises at least one hook 40, 41 configured to partially grip the pivot axis B1. The cooperation of a hook 40, 41 with the pivot axis B1 allows rotation of one of the two parts 12, 13 relative to the other 13, 12 about the pivot axis B1. Furthermore, each hook 40, 41 is configured to allow physical separation of the two parts 12, 13 relative to each other. Advantageously, when the jaw 11 is in the closed state E2, the pivot axis B1 extends parallel to the main axis X1.

[0054] On the Figure 5 , the system 3 is shown, comprising the gas container 4, the valve 2 connected to the gas container 4, via the inlet connector 6, and the device 1. On the Figure 5, the jaw is in the closed state E2. Furthermore, the system 3 comprises the mask 8 connected to the outlet connector 7 via the hose 9. Such a system 3 is particularly suitable for firefighters. Indeed, the system 3 allows the containers 4 to be packaged safely, while still allowing intervention, particularly in an emergency. For example, during a fire intervention, the user is equipped with the system 3 by carrying the gas container 4 on his back. If the valve 2 is accidentally opened by shocks or vibrations, the container 4 may leak. The user will then have to quickly remove his equipment, close the valve 2, change the container 4 and thus lose precious minutes during the intervention. Furthermore, during the intervention, the valve 2 is closed and secured by the device 1. For example, the device may further comprise the member 36 for sealing the opening of the jaw 11.Thus, the user remains in control of the opening of the jaw 11 of the device 1, during the intervention. The user can also deconsign the device by shearing the member 36, by simply opening the jaw 11, with sufficient force to cause the shearing of the member 36. Advantageously, the deconsignment can be carried out with the container 4 located on the user's back.

[0055] The device 1 may further comprise a shear lug 43, as illustrated in figures 2 And 4 . The shear lug 43 is positioned next to the through hole 39, and more particularly on the part 13, as illustrated in the figures 2 And 4. The shearing lug 43 is configured to facilitate the shearing of the member 36. In other words, the shearing lug 43 allows automatic shearing of the member 36 when the jaw 11 is opened, preferably when the gripping strap 35 is pulled.

[0056] It has also been represented on the figures 1 to 5 , the main steps of a protection method for a valve 2 of a gas container 4 using the device 1 defined above. The method comprises an opening of the jaw 11, illustrated in figure 1 , then positioning the actuator 10 between the two parts 12, 13, as illustrated in the Figure 5 , and a jaw closure 11, as shown in figures 2 to 4. In particular, when the jaw 11 is closed, the two parts 12, 13 at least partially cover the actuator 10 and the two parts 12, 13 cooperate with the valve 2 so as to block the device 1 in translation relative to the body 5 along the main axis X1. In the closed state, the actuator 10 is protected. For example, the jaw 11 is closed by bringing the two parts 12, 13 towards each other. For example, one part 12, 13 can be moved by rotation around the axis of rotation A1.

[0057] The method may comprise, after closing the jaw 11, an opening of the jaw 11 initiated by a movement of at least one part 12, 13 perpendicular to the secondary axis X2. In other words, to open the jaw 11, the rotation of one part 12, 13 relative to the other is triggered by an initial movement of the part 12, 13. The initial movement corresponds to a translation along a translation axis C1 perpendicular to the secondary axis X2. Advantageously, the translation axis C1 is perpendicular to the rotation axis A1.

Claims

1. Device for protecting a gas container (4) tap (2), the tap (2) comprising a body (5) having an inlet fitting (6) configured to be fluidly coupled to a gas container (4), and an outlet fitting (7) configured to be fluidly coupled to an apparatus (8), the tap (2) comprising a movable shutter to control passage of the gas within the outlet fitting (7) from the inlet fitting (6), and an actuator (10) capable of moving the shutter, the device comprising a jaw (11) having two parts (12, 13) movably mounted relative to one another, the jaw (11) being configured to be in an open state (E1) in which the two parts (12, 13) delimit a space (14) to position the actuator (10) between the two parts (12, 13), and a closed state (E2) in which the two parts (12, 13) at least partly cover the actuator (10) and the two parts (12, 13) cooperate with the tap (2) so as to translationally block the device relative to the body (5) along a main axis (X1), characterised in that the device comprises a plug (30) configured to cover the outlet fitting (7) and to be removably mounted to at least one of the two parts (12, 13).

2. The device according to the preceding claim, wherein the two parts (12, 13) are rotatably mounted to each other about an axis of rotation (A1) and when the jaw (11) is in the closed state (E2), the axis of rotation (A1) extends in parallel to the main axis (X1).

3. The device according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one of the two parts (12, 13) includes a main stop (20) capable of coming into contact with the body (5), when the jaw (11) is in the closed state (E2), so as to block the device relative to the body (5) along at least one direction of rotation (S1) about the main axis (X1).

4. The device according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one of the parts (12, 13) includes a secondary stop (21) capable of coming into contact with the body (5), when the jaw (11) is in the closed state (E2), so as to block the device with respect to the body (5) along a direction of rotation (S2) opposite to said at least one direction of rotation (S1).

5. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the two parts (12, 13) comprises a tertiary stop (22) configured to cooperate with the body (5) so as to translationally block the device relative to the body (5) along the main axis (X1).

6. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (10) is rotatably mounted to the body (5) about a secondary axis (X2), and at least one of the two parts (12, 13) comprises an anti-rotation pin configured to insert, when the jaw (11) is in the closed state (E2), into a complementary recess provided on the actuator (10) so as to rotatably block the actuator (10) relative to the device about the secondary axis (X2).

7. The device according to the preceding claim, wherein the main (X1) and secondary (X2) axes are parallel.

8. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a gripping strap (35) mounted to at least one of the two parts (12, 13).

9. The device according to the preceding claim and claim 3 in combination, wherein a first part (12) comprises the main stop (20) and the gripping strap (35) is mounted to the first part (12).

10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a member (36) configured to seal the jaw (11) in the closed state, and wherein at least one of the two parts (12, 13) comprises a tab (37) configured to insert into a slot (38) provided on the other part (13, 12), the tab (37) comprising a through hole (39) for the member (36) to pass therethrough.

11. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the two parts (12, 13) comprises a pivot axis (B1) and the other part (13, 12) comprises a hook (40, 41) configured to partially clamp the pivot axis (B1) so as to allow rotation of the other part (13, 12) relative to said at least one of the two parts (12, 13) about the pivot axis (B1), the hook (40, 41) being configured to allow physical separation of the two parts (12, 13) from one another.

12. The device according to the preceding claim, wherein, when the jaw (11) is in the closed state, the pivot axis (B1) extends in parallel to the main axis (X1).

13. System, comprising a gas container (4), a tap (2) comprising a body (5) having an inlet fitting (6) configured to be fluidly coupled to the gas container (4), and an outlet fitting (7) configured to be fluidly coupled to an apparatus (8), the tap (2) comprising a movable shutter for controlling passage of the gas within the outlet fitting (7) from the inlet fitting (6), the system comprising a protective device according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. Method for protecting a gas container (4) tap (2), the tap comprising a body (5) having an inlet fitting (6) configured to be fluidly coupled to a gas container (4), and an outlet fitting (7) configured to be fluidly coupled to an apparatus (8), the tap (2) comprising a movable shutter for controlling passage of the gas within the outlet fitting (7) from the inlet fitting (6), and an actuator (10) capable of moving the shutter, the method comprising opening a jaw (11) having two parts (12, 13) movably mounted relative to one another, positioning the actuator (10) between the two parts (12, 13), and closing the jaw (11) so that the two parts (12, 13) at least partially cover the actuator (10) and the two parts (12, 13) cooperate with the tap (2) so as to translationally block the device relative to the body (5) along a main axis (X1), characterised in that the method comprises removably mounting a plug (30) to at least one of the two parts (12, 13), to cover the outlet fitting (7).

15. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the actuator (10) is rotatably mounted to the body (5) about a secondary axis (X2), and the method comprises, after closing the jaw (11), opening the jaw (11) by moving at least one of the two parts (12, 13) perpendicularly to the secondary axis (X2).