Container for pressurised gas provided with an electronic device with alert acknowledgement means

Abstract

The invention relates to a pressurized gas container (1), such as a gas cylinder, comprising a fluid dispensing valve (3) equipped with an electronic device (7) including microprocessor-controlled control means (5) configured to control audible and / or visual alarm means so as to trigger at least one audible and / or visual alarm, and alarm acknowledgment means to interrupt the alarms when activated by a user. The control means (5) are further configured to trigger audible and / or visual alarms for a specified alarm duration, then interrupt the alarms, and repeat these operations after a given alarm interruption period.Furthermore, the alert acknowledgment means, when activated, cooperate with the control means to interrupt, for a predetermined acknowledgment period, the alerts before the end of the alert period and / or to prevent a repetition of the triggering of alerts.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pressurized fluid container, in particular a pressurized gas cylinder, equipped with a fluid dispensing tap comprising an electronic device with a digital display configured to trigger, where appropriate, an audible alert and a visual alert in the event of detection of an anomaly, such as low autonomy or clamping of the fluid dispensing conduit, and comprising improved alert acknowledgment means; as well as the use of such a pressurized fluid container for storing or dispensing a gas or gas mixture, in particular medical oxygen.

[0002] Medical fluids or gases, such as oxygen, NO / N 2 , N 2 O / O 2 , He / O 2 , medical air or other mixtures, are generally packaged in pressurized gas containers, in particular gas cylinders or canisters. These gas containers are equipped with a distribution tap, with or without an integrated pressure relief system, or RDI, used to supply the medical gas and a needle or digital pressure gauge used to display the residual gas pressure.

[0003] In general, the tap and the pressure gauge are protected by a protective cover, also called a "hat", used to protect them against shocks, falls, dirt, etc. Thus, document EP-A-2918893 proposes such a gas cylinder equipped with an RDI and a mechanical needle pressure gauge, while document EP-A-2918892 proposes a gas cylinder equipped with an RDI and an electronic device with a digital display screen.

[0004] To use the fluid, such as gas, i.e. to draw it from the container, it is common to connect a flexible pipe, such as a flexible plastic hose, to the flow outlet connection of the distribution tap through which the fluid is delivered before being routed through the flexible gas pipe. However, it happens quite frequently that the flexible gas pipe is more or less clamped, i.e. crushed, twisted or bent. The clamping is then detected by the electronic device which then triggers a so-called clamping alert to alert the user.

[0005] Furthermore, as the fluid is used, the container gradually empties, more or less quickly depending on the chosen withdrawal rate. The fluid autonomy is also monitored by the electronic device in order to alert the user when the autonomy becomes low. For example, when the autonomy falls below a given time, typically around 30 minutes or less, the electronic device triggers a so-called autonomy alert.

[0006] Of course, the electronic device can also be configured to trigger other alerts if it detects other anomalies or potentially problematic situations, for example, too low electrical power autonomy or other.

[0007] In all cases, provision may be made to trigger an audible or visual alert, or both, in order to attract the user's attention, for example by continuous or flashing lighting of one or more LED lights, or by triggering an intermittent or continuous audible signal.

[0008] However, managing these alerts and acknowledging them can be problematic in practice, i.e. at the place of use, for example in a hospital environment.

[0009] Thus, in practice, it has been observed that some users, who are bothered by the alerts, tend to acknowledge them immediately, i.e. to turn them off / stop them. However, this can lead to safety problems, for example if a person acknowledges an alert and then moves away from the container and a second person, who is not informed of the acknowledgment having taken place, then starts using the container, without taking into account its insufficient autonomy for example.

[0010] Conversely, an alert should not become a nuisance for the user if it cannot be acknowledged after triggering. However, when it is acknowledged, the previous problem should not arise.

[0011] In addition, it must be possible to acknowledge an alert for the time needed to perform a required action, for example the time to perform a gas cylinder replacement if low autonomy is detected. However, for safety reasons, the alert must reactivate if a given time has been exceeded whether the required action has been performed or not.

[0012] In addition, it must also be possible to acknowledge an alert without having to close the tap in order to continue distributing gas.

[0013] US-A-2003 / 0189492 proposes a system for monitoring the oxygen content in a patient's blood with triggering of an alarm when the patient's oxygen saturation falls below a threshold value. It comprises an electronic device that is attached to the distribution valve of a gas cylinder and is used to determine and display the level of liquid oxygen or the oxygen pressure in the cylinder. This system is therefore limited to monitoring the patient's blood O 2 content to trigger an alarm. In other words, it does not allow for the detection of a clamping of the oxygen supply tube or insufficient autonomy without a significant drop in the blood O 2 content, for example at the start of clamping. In addition, this system is complex because it requires monitoring the patient's blood O 2 content.

[0014] We also know FR-A-3070592 which proposes a system for assisting in the administration of oxygen to a patient treated by oxygen therapy, making it possible to determine whether the oxygen saturation (SpO 2 ) of a patient is correct and, if not, to propose a memorized oxygen administration protocol in order to restore an adequate SpO 2. The oxygen flow rate is adjusted remotely by command via data processing means, of a controlled valve.

[0015] The aim of the invention is therefore to improve the management of alerts triggered by an electronic device fitted to a pressurized fluid container, in particular a pressurized gas cylinder, equipped with a fluid distribution tap comprising an electronic device with a digital display in order to resolve all or part of the aforementioned problems, in particular in order to be able to quickly detect clamping or too low autonomy, without requiring monitoring of the patient's blood O2 content.

[0016] The solution of the invention relates to a pressurized fluid container, in particular a gas bottle, comprising a fluid dispensing tap equipped with an electronic device, said electronic device comprising: microprocessor control means configured to control audible alert means and visual alert means so as to trigger at least one audible alert and / or one visual alert, and alert acknowledgment means operable by a user to interrupt the audible and / or visual alerts when they are actuated by the user, in which: the microprocessor control means are further configured to operate according to the steps of: a) triggering an audible alert and / or a visual alert for an alert duration (T1), b) interrupting the audible and / or visual alerts after the alert duration (T1), and c) repeating steps a) and b), after an alert interruption duration (T2), and the alert acknowledgment means, when actuated by a user, cooperate with the control means to interrupt, for a pre-set acknowledgment duration (T3), the audible and / or visual alerts before the end of the alert duration (T1) of step a) and / or to prevent a repetition of a triggering of audible and / or visual alerts according to step c), characterized in that: the flow selection device comprises a rotary handwheel configured to move between several positions angularly offset from each other, each position corresponding to a given desired gas flow rate value (Qd) between 0 and 30 L / min, the fluid distribution tap comprises a pressure sensor for measuring the fluid pressure at several successive times (t 1 , t 2 ) and providing the control means with one or more pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) corresponding to the fluid pressure measured at said successive times (t 1 , t 2 ), and the control means are configured to process the pressure measurement(s) (p 1 , p 2 ) provided by the pressure sensor so as to: i) determine the actual gas flow rate (Qr) provided by the flow outlet connection of the tap, between the successive times (t 1 , t 2 ), from the pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) made at the successive times (t 1 , t 2 ) ;ii) compare the actual gas flow (Qr) to the desired gas flow (Qd); and iii) trigger a clamp alert when: Qr < n . Qd with; n ≤ 0 , 80 i . e . 80 % , or 1) calculate a fluid autonomy from the desired gas flow rate value (Qd) and the measured pressure values (p 1 , p 2 ), and 2) trigger a fluid autonomy alert, when the calculated autonomy is less than a predefined duration, typically a predefined duration less than or equal to 60 minutes.

[0017] Depending on the embodiment considered, the container of the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics: the microprocessor control means are configured to cyclically repeat steps a) and b). the control means are configured to repeat steps a) and b) at least 3 times in a row. the microprocessor control means are configured to trigger continuous or discontinuous sound and / or visual alerts, in particular sequences of successive sound or light pulses. the sound alert comprises the emission of at least one continuous or discontinuous, ie intermittent, sound signal, such as a sequence of rapid audible sounds (ie sound pulses), separated by short pauses. the visual alert comprises the emission of at least one continuous or intermittent visual signal, such as a flashing. the visual alert is a light alert, such as a flashing. the sound and / or visual alerts comprise a sequence of discontinuous sound and / or visual signals, delivered during the alert duration (T1).the sound alert comprises a sound sequence comprising a discontinuous sound signal, delivered during the alert duration (T1), said discontinuous sound signal comprising successive short sounds separated from each other by short pauses, typically successive sound pulses, i.e. successive beeps. The successive short sounds (or successive sound pulses) each have a duration of less than 1 second, preferably a duration of the order of a few tens to hundreds of milliseconds. Similarly, the short pauses have a duration of less than 1 second, preferably a duration of the order of a few tens to hundreds of milliseconds. For example, such a sound sequence may comprise at least 3 beeps of a few tens or hundreds of milliseconds each separated by pauses of a few tens or hundreds of milliseconds.the visual alert comprises a visual sequence comprising a discontinuous visual signal, delivered during the alert duration (T1), said discontinuous visual signal comprising visual pulses, in particular the flashing of one or more LEDs or the flashing of a digital display screen and / or an alert icon or pictogram displayed on said digital display screen. the microprocessor control means are configured to trigger an audible alert and a visual alert during the alert duration (T1). the alert acknowledgment means, when actuated by a user, are configured to interrupt the audible and visual alerts, preferably to simultaneously interrupt the audible and visual alerts. the control means are configured to trigger a clamping alert or a fluid autonomy alert. the microprocessor control means comprise one or more microprocessors.the control means comprise an electronic card. the control means are configured to trigger the audible alert and the light alert in a synchronized manner. the microprocessor control means configured to control audible alert means and visual alert means so as to trigger at least one audible alert and one visual alert when they determine a fluid autonomy less than or equal to a given autonomy threshold value, i.e. an autonomy alert. the autonomy threshold value is less than or equal to 1 hour (i.e. 60 minutes), preferably less than or equal to 45 min, more preferably less than or equal to 30 min, advantageously between approximately 10 and 30 minutes.the microprocessor control means configured to control audible alert means and visual alert means so as to trigger at least one audible alert and one visual alert when they determine a conduit clamping, i.e. a clamping alert. the alert duration (T1) and the alert interruption duration (T2) are such that: T2 = T1 or T2 < T1. the alert duration (T1) is between 1 second and 5 min, preferably less than or equal to 2 min, more preferably less than or equal to 1 min. for example, the alert duration (T1) is between 1 second and 20 seconds, preferably less than 10 seconds, for example of the order of 3 seconds. the alert interruption duration (T2) is between 1 second and 30 min. for example, the alert interruption duration (T2) is between 1 second and 20 seconds, preferably less than 10 seconds, for example of the order of 3 seconds.the acknowledgment duration (T3) is between 1 and 10 min, preferably between 1 and 8 min, more preferably between 1.5 and 6 min. the sound alert means comprise a loudspeaker, preferably carried by the electronic card and / or protected by a sealing membrane. according to another embodiment, the sound alert means comprise a buzzer-type device (ie buzzer = sound alarm), i.e. a device emitting a sound signal of fixed frequency, such as continuous or intermittent beeps. preferably, the buzzer-type device is carried by the electronic card. the visual alert means comprise at least one light diode, i.e. an LED or the like. the visual alert means comprise at least one light diode lit continuously or flashing, i.e. lit discontinuously (i.e. light pulses). the electronic device comprises a digital display, i.e.such as an information display screen, for example of the LCD type. the visual alert means comprise flashing means configured to cause the digital display, i.e. screen, of the electronic device to flash. the visual alert means comprise means for displaying an alert pictogram configured to display an alert icon or any other similar pictogram on the digital display of the electronic device. the alert acknowledgment means operable by a user comprise a digitally actuated activation member. the digitally actuated activation member is configured to transmit an alert interruption signal to the control means. the digitally actuated activation member is an acknowledgment button or key.the control means are configured to interrupt the alerts in response to the reception of an alert interruption signal resulting from an actuation of the activation member, typically from pressing the button or the like. the pressurized fluid container comprises an internal volume for storing pressurized fluid, in particular pressurized gas. the fluid distribution tap comprises a flow rate selection device for selecting a desired fluid flow rate (Qd). the fluid distribution tap comprises a flow rate outlet connector for delivering the fluid at the desired flow rate (Qd). the pressure sensor provides the microprocessor with the pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) corresponding to the pressure of the fluid measured at said successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ). the control means, in particular the microprocessor, are configured to process the pressure measurement(s) (p 1 , p 2 ) provided by the pressure sensor.the flow outlet connection of the fluid dispensing valve is configured to be fluidically connected to a flexible gas line or another device using the fluid, such as a medical device or apparatus. the control means are further configured to trigger the clamping alert when: Qr < n. Qd with: n ≤ 0.70 (ie 70%), preferably n ≤ 0.60 (ie 60%), more preferably n ≤ 0.50 (ie 50%). the microprocessor control means are configured to determine the actual gas flow rate (Qr), between the successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ), by carrying out the following calculation (the values being expressed in SI units): Qr = (ΔP . V) / Δt , where: ▪ ΔP corresponds to the pressure variation between two successive pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ), ▪ V corresponds to the volume of the gas container, and ▪ Δt corresponds to the time variation between the successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ) at which the two successive pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) were carried out.the control means are arranged in the electronic device with a digital display, preferably in the housing of an electronic device. the electronic device is a digital pressure gauge for determining a fluid pressure and / or a fluid autonomy, preferably a gas autonomy. the flow rate selection device comprises a rotary handwheel configured to move between several positions angularly offset from each other, each position corresponding to a given desired gas flow rate value (Qd). the flow rate selection device makes it possible to select desired gas flow rates (Qd) between 0 and 25 L / min. the flow rate selection device further cooperates with a flow rate adjustment device arranged in the body of the valve in order to adjust the flow rate to the desired gas flow rate value (Qd). the flow rate adjustment device comprises a disc with calibrated orifices arranged on the gas path in the body of the valve.the gas outlet connection is arranged in the center of the rotary flywheel, that is to say they are arranged coaxially with each other. it comprises a time counter. the time counter is incorporated in the control means. the control means are configured to record the successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ) at which the successive pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) are made. the control means are configured to determine the duration (Δt) elapsing between two successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ). preferably, the two successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ) are separated by a duration of between 1 and 60 seconds, or more, preferably less than 30 seconds, typically between 5 and 15 seconds, for example of the order of 10 seconds. the container has an internal volume between 1 and 20 L, typically between 2 and 15 L (water equivalent).the digital display of the electronic device is configured to display a clamping alert icon or an alphanumeric indication of clamping in the event of a clamping alert being triggered, for example terms such as "CLAMP", "CLAMPAGE" or the like (in French or another language). the digital display of the electronic device is configured to display an autonomy alert icon. the microprocessor control means are configured to trigger an audible alert and a visual alert in the event of a clamping alert or an autonomy alert being triggered. the data storage means comprise a read-only memory, preferably an EEPROM or the like. the electronic device is attached to the gas distribution tap. the electronic device comprises the microprocessor. at least one electrical energy source electrically powers the digital display, the microprocessor(s) and / or the pressure sensor.the pressure sensor is arranged to measure the gas pressure within the internal gas passage of the gas distribution valve, said internal passage being in fluid communication with the internal volume of the gas container. the fluid distribution valve is protected by a protective cover comprising a rigid cover body arranged around said fluid distribution valve. the housing of the electronic device comprising the digital display is housed in an opening provided in the cover body. the electronic device is fixed to the gas distribution valve and is electrically powered by the electrical energy source, preferably one or more batteries or cells, e.g. rechargeable or not. the cover body defines an internal volume sized to house the gas distribution valve. the electrical energy source comprises one or more batteries or cells, rechargeable or not.the microprocessor(s) implements one or more algorithms. the microprocessor control means comprise an electronic card on which the microprocessor(s) is / are arranged. the microprocessor control means comprise at least one microcontroller. More specifically, one (or more) microprocessors may be integrated into the electronic device in the form of a microcontroller. the microprocessor control means, typically a microcontroller, are configured to record data, in particular within software or algorithm. the cover body is made of polymer material, metal or combinations thereof. the cover body comprises one (or more) carrying handles, preferably the carrying handle is arranged so as to surmount the cover, i.e. it is located substantially above the cover. the gas distribution valve is a valve with integrated pressure regulator or RDI.the fluid distribution tap is made of a copper alloy, such as brass. the cover body further comprises a hooking system designed to allow it to be hooked to a support, in particular to a hospital bed rail or to a patient transport stretcher or the like. the cover body further comprises a movable, preferably pivoting, hooking system. the fluid container is a pressurized gas cylinder containing a pressurized gas, in particular a medical gas, such as oxygen. the fluid container contains, when full, a gas at a pressure of at least 130 to 200 bar abs, or even at least 300 bar abs. the fluid container has a generally cylindrical shape, in particular an ogive shape, made of metal or metal alloy (e.g. steel, aluminum, etc.) or of composite material(s). a flexible gas pipe is fluidically connected to the flow outlet connector, i.e. a gas pipe capable of being clamped.the fluid container contains a gas or gas mixture, such as oxygen, a NO / N 2 , O 2 / N 2 O or He / O 2 mixture, air or other.

[0018] The invention will now be better understood thanks to the following detailed description, given for illustrative but non-limiting purposes, with reference to the appended figure, namely: Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a gas container with a digital display according to the invention, Fig. 2 represents an embodiment of an electronic device with a digital display of a gas container according to the invention, Fig. 3 represents an embodiment of a gas container provided with an electronic device with a digital display according to the invention, Fig. 4 is an example of a continuous audible alert signal, and Fig. 5 is an example of a discontinuous audible alert signal comprising successive audible pulses.

[0019] Fig. 1is a schematic diagram of a pressurized fluid container 1 according to the invention, whereas the Fig. 3 represents an embodiment of such a fluid container 1, namely here a pressurized gas cylinder of axis AA.

[0020] Fluid container 1 of the Fig. 1 And Fig. 3 comprises an internal volume 2 for storing pressurized gas, for example more than 200 bar abs (full pressure), and is equipped with a fluid distribution tap 3, such as an RDI, crossed by an internal fluid passage or circuit in fluid communication with the internal volume 2 of the container 1 so as to convey the fluid, namely gas here, within the body of the gas distribution tap 3 to a flow outlet connection 11 to which a flexible gas pipe 100 is fluidically connected, which is likely to be clamped unexpectedly.

[0021] The AA axis gas cylinder comprises a cylindrical body and a neck, i.e. it is ogive-shaped. The cylindrical body defines the internal volume 2 for storing gas under high pressure, typically a maximum pressure of 130 to 300 bar abs, or even beyond 300 bar abs. The neck comprises a fluid inlet / outlet port communicating with the internal volume 2 and making it possible to withdraw gas from the internal volume 2 or, conversely, to fill it when it is empty. The gas distribution valve 3 is mounted, typically screwed, at the port of the neck of the gas cylinder.

[0022] The gas distribution tap 3, which is here an RDI, is aimed at the neck of the gas cylinder. It comprises a gas distribution connector or nozzle, called flow outlet connector 11, to which a flexible gas line 100, such as a flexible plastic pipe, can be connected, used to convey the gas to a medical apparatus or device using the gas supplied by the tap 3, for example a breathing mask distributing gas to a patient at a flow rate prescribed by a doctor or the like corresponding to a treatment to be followed.

[0023] The valve body is preferably made of brass or stainless steel. The gas distribution valve 3 comprises a pressure sensor 4 for measuring the gas pressure, within the internal gas passage and / or in the internal volume 2 of the container 1, and providing pressure measurements (i.e. measurement signals) to microprocessor control means 5, i.e. a control device or unit comprising one or more microprocessors implementing one or more algorithms, for example an electronic card carrying one (or more) microprocessors implementing one or more calculation or other algorithms, preferably a microcontroller.

[0024] The microprocessor control means 5, configured to process the pressure measurements provided by the pressure sensor 4. They are preferably arranged in the housing of an electronic device 7, for example a digital pressure gauge, fixed to the fluid distribution tap 3, which comprises a digital display 6, such as an LCD screen or the like.

[0025] Further provided is a flow rate selection device 12 operable by a user, such as a rotary handwheel, for selecting a desired gas flow rate (Qd) to be delivered by the outlet connection 11 in flow, for example to meet a prescription from a doctor or the like.

[0026] As illustrated in Fig. 3, the flow rate selection device 12 may be a rotary handwheel capable of rotating between several angular positions, offset from each other, which each correspond to a given flow rate value, for example selectable gas flow rate values between 0 L / min and 30 L / min, typically between 0 and 25 L / min. For example, the selectable flow rate values may be the following: 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 and 25 L / min, or any other value. As can be seen, the desired flow rate value (Qd) selected by the user by actuating the flow rate selection device 12, i.e. rotary handwheel, appears in a reading window 13 located above the flow rate selection device 12, for example a cutout provided in the protective cover 14 arranged around the tap 3 and serving to protect it against impacts or other external attacks.

[0027] In fact, the flow rate selection device 12 further cooperates with a flow rate adjustment device arranged in the body of the valve 3 in order to adjust the flow rate to the desired gas flow rate value (Qd), for example the flow rate adjustment device may be a calibrated orifice disc arranged on the gas path in the body of the valve 3. Such an arrangement is known per se. Once the desired gas flow rate (Qd) has been selected, the position of the flow rate selection device 12, for example the angular position of the rotary handwheel, can be determined using one or more position sensors. This then allows the control means 5 to know the desired gas flow rate value (Qd) having been selected. Such an arrangement is also known per se.

[0028] In the embodiment of the Fig. 3, the flow outlet connection 11 is arranged centrally and coaxially with the flow selection rotary handwheel 12; however, they could also be separated from each other according to other possible embodiments (not shown).

[0029] Furthermore, the pressure sensor 4 is configured and arranged to measure the gas pressure, for example, at several successive times (t 1 , t 2 ), preferably spaced successive times (t 1 , t 2 ) lasting from a few seconds to tens of seconds, typically a duration of the order of 10 seconds, and then provide the pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) made which correspond to the gas pressure measured at these successive times (t 1 , t 2 ). The determination of the time elapsing between the successive times (t 1 , t 2 ) can be done by means of a time counter, for example internal to the microprocessor control means 5.

[0030] The pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) made and transmitted by the sensor 14 are in fact signals which represent either pressure values or other quantities, such as voltage or current values, corresponding to pressure values.

[0031] Otherwise, the microprocessor control means 5 are configured to process the pressure measurement signals (p 1 , p 2 ) determined at successive times (t 1 , t 2 ) and supplied by the pressure sensor 4, which measures the pressure of the gas stored in the container 1, and determine measured pressure values from these measurement signals.

[0032] For example, these pressure measurements are processed by the control means 5 to determine, from the pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) made at successive times (t 1 , t 2 ), an actual gas flow rate (Qr) supplied by the outlet connector 11 as a flow rate from the valve 3 to the flexible gas pipe 100, between the successive times (t 1 , t 2 ). Then, they compare this actual gas flow rate (Qr) with the desired gas flow rate (Qd) having been set by actuation of the flow rate selection device 12, and trigger a clamping alert when they deduce from this comparison that the actual gas flow rate (Qr) is much lower than the expected gas flow rate, that is to say the desired gas flow rate (Qd) or, in other words, when: Qr < n . Qd with: n ≤ 0.80 (ie 80% expressed as a percentage), preferably n ≤ 0.70 (ie 70%), more preferably n ≤ 0.60 (ie 60%), advantageously n ≤ 0.50 (ie 50%).

[0033] To determine the actual gas flow rate (Qr), between successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ), from successive pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ), the control means 5 perform the following calculation: Qr = (ΔP . V) / Δt where: ΔP corresponds to the pressure variation between two successive pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ), V corresponds to the volume of the gas container, and Δt corresponds to the time variation between the successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ) at which the two successive pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 ) were made.

[0034] The internal volume of the gas container (in water equivalent) is a known value which can be stored by storage means 9, such as an EEPROM type computer memory, of the electronic device 7.

[0035] For example, gas cylinders equipped with this type of electronic device 7 used to distribute medical oxygen (i.e. medical grade) typically have volumes between 1 L and 20 L (water equiv.), typically between 2 L and 15 L, for example, depending on the cylinder considered, the volume can be of the order of 2 L, 3.5 L, 4.6 L, 5 L, 7 L, 10 L, 11 L or 15 L.

[0036] The storage means 9 can also record other data, such as for example the time elapsing between successive instants (t 1 , t 2 ), successive pressure measurements (p 1 , p 2 )... or other parameters, such as the gas temperature, ambient temperature, position of the selector, configuration of the bottle, filling pressure, presses on the acknowledgment button, alerts...

[0037] More generally, the electronic device 7, for example a digital pressure gauge, which comprises the microprocessor control means 5, typically an electronic card, is housed in an opening or housing provided in the body of the protective cover 14 arranged around the fluid distribution tap 3 and serving to protect it against impacts or other possible damage, for example a rigid cover made of polymer and / or metal, as illustrated in Fig. 2 .

[0038] The digital display 6 of the electronic device 7 comprises a digital screen, for example liquid crystal (LCD) or other, carried by the rigid housing, in particular the front face 18, of the electronic device 7, as illustrated in Fig. 4 .

[0039] The digital display 6 is electrically powered by an electrical energy source (not visible) arranged in the cover 14, for example one or more batteries or cells arranged in a battery compartment arranged in the wall of the cover body and closed by a removable hatch or the like.

[0040] The digital display 6 of the electronic device 7 makes it possible to display all the information useful to the user, such as for example pressure values, gas autonomy (in hours and minutes) or other information or data, for example the value of the desired gas flow rate Qd or actual Qr (in L / min or in another unit), or the gas autonomy (in hours and minutes) can also be represented by a bar graph 22.

[0041] As illustrated in Fig. 2, the digital display 6 can be arranged in the front panel 18, that is to say the front face, of the housing of the electronic device 7 which is fixed on the fluid distribution tap 3 and housed in an opening or housing of the body of the protective cover 14 protecting the tap 3, as illustrated in Fig. 3 . For example, the digital display 6 comprises a screen with a height of between approximately 29 and 37 mm and a width of, for example, between approximately 39 and 43 mm.

[0042] The microprocessor control means 5 are configured to control audible alert means and / or visual alert means 19, preferably both, so as to trigger at least one audible alert and / or one visual alert, preferably both, in the event of detection of a malfunction, in particular a clamping, or of a quantity of gas or autonomy that is too low.

[0043] The sound alert means comprise a buzzer-type device or, as the case may be, a loudspeaker emitting a sound, a melody or any other sound signal, for example a “beep” type signal. The loudspeaker or buzzer may be arranged on the electronic card carrying the microprocessor and advantageously protected by a sealing membrane which also makes it possible to diffuse the sound it emits.

[0044] Furthermore, the visual alert means 19 comprise, for example, one or more light diodes of the LED type or the like which can be controlled to light up in the event of an alert being triggered (i.e. a light alert) and / or the appearance of alert information on the display 6, such as an alert icon and / or text and / or flashing of the display 6 itself, or other.

[0045] In the event of detection of a conduit clamping for example, the control means 5 are configured to trigger, in a synchronized manner, a visual alert and an audible alert in order to warn the user of this clamping, that is to say a local deformation or crushing of the flexible wall of a gas conduit connected to the RDI causing a restriction of passage of the fluid causing a drop in flow rate. Other forms of clamping exist, such as for example a bent pipe, that is to say forming an elbow or the like.

[0046] For example, here, in the event of triggering of a clamping alert by the control means 5, the visual and audible alerts are materialized by a display on the display screen 6 of a specific alert icon 10, for example here a danger triangle, and / or an alphanumeric indication 20 of clamping, for example here the term “CLAMP” or another equivalent term, such as CLAMPAGE, whether in French or in another language, for example CLAMPING in English, and / or a flashing of the display screen 6 and / or of one (or more) light diodes 19 present on the casing of the electronic device 7.

[0047] The triggering of a visual alert is preferably accompanied by an audible alert, namely the emission of an audible signal. The audible and / or visual signals can be continuous, as shown diagrammatically in Fig. 4 , or discontinuous, as shown in Fig. 5 , and explained below.

[0048] Similarly, in the event of detection of too low a fluid autonomy, typically less than a predefined duration, for example between 20 and 45 minutes, in particular 30 minutes or less, the control means 5 are configured to trigger, in a synchronized manner, a visual alert and an audible alert in order to warn the user of this low fluid autonomy.

[0049] Typically, fluid autonomy is calculated for a given fluid flow rate, i.e. from the desired gas flow rate value Qd selected by the user, from measured pressure values and other parameters, such as gas temperature. Calculating fluid autonomy is known in itself.

[0050] More generally, once the alerts have been triggered, it is desirable to be able to acknowledge them, i.e., stop them. To do this, the electronic device 7 may comprise alert acknowledgment means, such as an alert acknowledgment button or key, in particular arranged in its front panel 18, used to acknowledge or stop the alerts after they have been triggered. The alert acknowledgment means 21, for example an alert acknowledgment button, is actuated by the user when he wishes to acknowledge the alerts, i.e., stop or stop the emission of the visual and audible signals.

[0051] According to the present invention, the management of alerts, that is to say their triggering and their extinction, is done in a particular manner, as explained below.

[0052] More specifically, the microprocessor control means 5 are configured to operate: triggering an audible alert and a visual alert for an alert duration (T1), interrupting the audible and visual alerts after the alert duration (T1), and repeating, preferably cyclically, said triggering and interruption, after a given alert interruption duration (T2), with preferably: T2 ≤ T1.

[0053] In other words, the audible and visual alerts are repeated cyclically, spaced out by periods of “silence”, i.e. automatic interruption of the alerts, controlled by the control means 5.

[0054] As already mentioned, the audible and / or visual alerts include the emission of an audible signal and / or a visual signal which may be continuous or discontinuous, i.e. intermittent.

[0055] So, the Fig. 4 schematizes a continuous sound (or light) signal, while the Fig. 5schematizes a discontinuous, i.e. intermittent, sound (or light) signal, formed of several sound pulses, such as a series or sequence of short sound beeps.

[0056] On the Fig. 4 , we see that when the audible alert is triggered, the control means 5 trigger an audible alert and interrupt it after an alert duration T1. The audible alert is here an audible signal, i.e. an audible sound, which is delivered for the entire duration T1. Then, the audible signal is stopped, i.e. no sound is emitted, for a given alert interruption duration T2. After this duration T2, the control means 5 trigger the audible alert again for, again, the alert duration T1, then interrupt it. This alert / alert interruption cycle is repeated here 3 times but, of course, it could be repeated cyclically more than 3 times.

[0057] There Fig. 5 is analogous to the Fig. 4, except that, during each alert duration T1, the audible alert signal, i.e. the audible sound, is not delivered continuously but in a pulsed manner, i.e. in the form of a series or sequence of successive short sound pulses, typically less than 1 second each, separated by equally short pause periods, typically less than 1 second each. Preferably, the pulse and pause durations are of the order of a few tens to hundreds of milliseconds each. At the end of period T1, the pulses are stopped during period T2, as previously, before resuming cyclically for a new duration T1. Here again, the alert / alert interruption cycle can be repeated 3 times, or more. The series or sequences of successive short sound pulses are series of sound “beeps” for example. The durations of the sound pulses can be equal to or different from the pause durations.

[0058] THE Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 schematize sound signals but identical or analogous representations can be made with visual signals, in particular light signals, which can also be continuous or discontinuous, i.e. in the form of light pulses or flashing.

[0059] Furthermore, the alert acknowledgment means 21, when actuated by a user, cooperate with the control means 5 to interrupt the audible and visual alerts before the end of the alert duration (T1) or to prevent a cyclical repetition of triggering of audible and visual alerts, and this, for a pre-fixed acknowledgment duration (T3), preferably T3 > T2 and T3 > T1.

[0060] For example, we can choose durations T1 and T2 equal to a few seconds, and a duration T3 equal to several minutes, in order, for example, to give a user time to unclamp the gas pipe, when a clamping alert has been triggered or to change the gas bottle, in the event of an autonomy alert being triggered.

[0061] The durations T1, T2 and T3 can be stored by the storage means 9, such as an EEPROM type computer memory, of the electronic device 7. According to another embodiment, they can be configured via dedicated software, for example an external application.

[0062] The alert duration T1 can be inversely proportional to the fluid autonomy of the bottle, that is to say that the shorter the fluid autonomy becomes, the longer the alert duration (T1), whether it is the duration of a continuous audible signal as illustrated in Fig. 4, or that of the sequence of sound pulses in the case of a discontinuous audible signal, as illustrated in Fig. 5 .

[0063] Similarly, the alert interruption duration (T2) can be proportional to the fluid autonomy of the bottle, i.e. the shorter the fluid autonomy becomes, the shorter the alert interruption duration (T2).

[0064] For example, depending on the gas autonomy of the bottle: the alert duration T1 may be between 1 second and one or more minutes, typically less than 1 minute, for example 3 to 5 seconds, the alert interruption duration T2 may be between 1 second and one or more minutes, for example 3 to 5 seconds, and the acknowledgment duration T3 may be between 1 and several minutes.

[0065] In this case, the durations T1 and T2 are for example equal to 3 seconds.

[0066] However, the durations T1 and T2 may be equal to each other (i.e. T2 = T1), or different from each other, preferably T2 < T1, depending on the desired embodiment.

[0067] Other examples of alert durations, alert interruption and acknowledgment depending on different autonomy or in case of clamping are given in the following table. Painting Autonomy alert thresholds 15 minutes 10 minutes Clamp alert Alert by synchronized activation of a flashing LED and an audible signal Alert durations Alert duration 45 seconds (T1) then resume after 15 seconds (T2) 50 seconds (T1) then resume after 10 seconds (T2) 45 seconds (T1) then resume after 15 seconds (T2) Alert acknowledgement time 5 minutes 2 minutes 5 minutes

[0068] Furthermore, as illustrated in Fig. 3, the protective cover 14 may be a simple cover, such as a simple rigid protective shell or envelope without any other functionality, or be more advanced, that is to say include other functionalities, such as for example a carrying handle 15 fixed to the body of the cover 14 by one or more support uprights 16, and / or a movable (e.g. pivoting or translative) or fixed attachment system 17 allowing the container / tap / cover assembly to be attached, i.e. suspended, to a support, typically to a bed or stretcher bar, or any other rod or the like. The carrying handle 15 is advantageously sized to be able to be grasped manually by a user in order to allow easy handling and / or transport of the gas container / tap / cover assembly.

[0069] All components requiring electrical energy to operate (i.e. microprocessor, sensor, display, etc.) are electrically powered by an electrical energy source arranged, for example, in the cover 14, for example an electric battery or cell.

[0070] Generally speaking, a fluid container 1, in particular a gas bottle, equipped with a tap, such as an RDI, protected by a cover according to the invention is suitable for storing and supplying pressurized gas, in particular a medical gas or gas mixture, such as oxygen, a NO / N 2 , O 2 / N 2 O or He / O 2 mixture, air or other.

Claims

1. Container (1) for pressurized fluid, in particular a pressurized gas cylinder, comprising a fluid distribution valve (3) equipped with an electronic device (7), said electronic device (7) comprising: - microprocessor-based control means (5) configured to control audible alert means and / or visual alert means in such a way as to trigger at least one audible alert and / or visual alert, - alert acknowledgment means (21) actuatable by a user in order to interrupt the audible and / or visual alerts when said alert acknowledgement means are actuated by the user, - and a flow outlet connection (11) configured to be connected fluidically to a flexible gas line or another device using the fluid, in which: - the microprocessor-based control means (5) are further configured to perform according to the steps of: a) triggering an audible alert and / or a visual alert for an alert period (T1), b) interrupting the audible and / or visual alerts after the alert period (T1), and c) repeating steps a) and b), after a given alert interruption period (T2), - and the alert acknowledgment means (21), when they are actuated by a user, cooperate with the control means (5) in order to interrupt, during a preset acknowledgment period (T3), the audible and / or visual alerts before the end of the alert period (T1) of step a), and / or in order to prevent a repetition of triggering of audible and / or visual alerts according to step c), characterized in that: - the device (12) for selecting a flow rate comprises a rotary handwheel configured to move between a plurality of positions that are angularly offset from one another, each position corresponding to a given desired gas flow rate value (Qd) of between 0 and 30 l / min, - the fluid distribution valve (3) comprises a pressure sensor (4) for measuring the pressure of the fluid at several successive instants (t1, t2) and for supplying the control means (5) with one or more pressure measurements (p1, p2) corresponding to the pressure of the fluid measured at said successive instants (t1, t2), and - the control means (5) are configured to process the one or more pressure measurements (p1, p2) supplied by the pressure sensor (4) in such a way as to: i) determine the actual gas flow rate (Qr) supplied by the flow outlet connection (11) of the valve (3), between the successive instants (t1, t2), on the basis of the pressure measurements (p1, p2) performed at the successive instants (t1, t2); ii) compare the actual gas flow rate (Qr) to the desired gas flow rate (Qd); and iii) trigger a clamping alert when: actual gas flow rate (Qr) < n. desired gas flow rate (Qd) with n ≤ 0.80 (i.e. 80%), or 1) calculate a fluid autonomy on the basis of the desired gas flow rate value (Qd) and the measured pressure values (p1, p2), and 2) trigger a fluid autonomy alert, when the calculated autonomy is less than a predefined period.

2. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the control means are configured to trigger a clamping alert when: actual gas flow rate (Qr) < n. desired gas flow rate (Qd) with n ≤ 0.70 (i.e. 70%), preferably n ≤ 0.60 (i.e. 60%), more preferably n ≤ 0.50 (i.e. 50%).

3. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the control means (5) are configured to trigger an autonomy alert when the calculated autonomy is less than or equal to 60 minutes.

4. Container according to Claim 3, characterized in that the control means (5) are configured to trigger an autonomy alert when the calculated autonomy is between 20 and 45 minutes, preferably between 25 and 35 minutes, for example of the order of 30 minutes.

5. Container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the alert acknowledgment means (21), when they are actuated by a user, are configured to interrupt the audible and visual alerts, preferably to interrupt the audible and visual alerts simultaneously.

6. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the alert acknowledgment means (21) comprise a finger-operated activation member, preferably an acknowledgment button or key.

7. Container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the microprocessor-based control means (5) are arranged in an electronic device (7) with digital display (6).

8. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the digital display (6) of the electronic device (7) is configured to display a clamping-alert icon (10) and / or an alphanumeric indication (20) of clamping in the event of a clamping alert being triggered.

9. Container according to Claim 8, characterized in that the digital display (6) of the electronic device (7) is configured to display "CLAMP" or "CLAMPING" in the event of a clamping alert being triggered.

10. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the microprocessor-based control means (5) are configured to trigger continuous or discontinuous audible and / or visual alerts, in particular successive sound or light pulse sequences.

11. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that: - the alert period (T1) is between 1 second and 5 minutes, - the alert interruption period (T2) is between 1 second and 30 minutes, and - the acknowledgement period (T3) is between 1 minute and 10 minutes.

12. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the microprocessor-based control means (5) are configured to determine the actual gas flow rate (Qr), between the successive instants (t1, t2), by performing the following calculation (the values being expressed in SI units): actual gas flow rate (Qr) = (ΔP . V) / Δt where: ▪ ΔP corresponds to the variation in pressure between two successive pressure measurements (p1, p2), ▪ V corresponds to the volume of the gas container, and ▪ Δt corresponds to the variation in time between the successive instants (t1, t2) at which the two successive pressure measurements (p1, p2) were performed.

13. Container according to either of Claims 1 and 12, characterized in that the successive instants (t1, t2) are separated by a period of between 1 and 60 seconds, preferably less than 30 seconds.

14. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that a flexible gas line is connected fluidically to the flow outlet connection (11).

15. Use of a container (1) for pressurized fluid, in particular a gas cylinder, according to one of the preceding claims, for storing or for supplying a pressurized gas, in particular a medical gas chosen from oxygen or a gaseous mixture of N2O / O2, NO / N2, He / O2, or medical air.

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