Fluid container with dispensing tap with electronic device and independent pressure sensor

Abstract

The invention relates to a pressurized fluid container (1), in particular a gas cylinder, comprising a container body (1-1) having an internal volume (2) for maintaining a pressurized fluid and equipped with a fluid dispensing valve (3). The valve body (3-1) includes an internal fluid circuit (3-2). An electronic device (7) includes microprocessor-based data processing means (5) (5-1) for processing pressure measurements taken by pressure measuring means (4) that measure the fluid pressure in the internal fluid circuit (3-2). The pressure measuring means (4) are arranged in the valve body (3-1) in a dissociated, i.e., decoupled, manner from the electronic device (7) by being connected only electrically to the electronic device (7) by means of electrical connection (20), in particular via a ribbon cable comprising several electrical cables arranged in parallel.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a pressurized fluid container, in particular a pressurized gas bottle, equipped with a fluid distribution tap equipped with an electronic device and a separate pressure (and temperature) sensor, i.e. independent of the electronic device, making it possible to carry out pressure (and temperature) measurements and to supply them to the electronic device, via electrical connection means, such as a ribbon cable with several electrical cables.

[0002] Medical fluids or gases, such as oxygen, NO / N 2 , N 2 O / O 2 , He / O 2 mixtures, medical air or others, are packaged in pressurized gas containers, in particular gas cylinders or canisters, which are equipped with a distribution tap, also called a valve, with an integrated pressure relief system (IRS) or without an integrated pressure relief system, used to provide an adjustable gas flow. Advantageously, a rigid protective cover, also called a "cap", is used to protect the tap and its fragile equipment against shocks, falls, dirt, etc.

[0003] Indeed, the dispensing tap or valve may be equipped with an electronic device with a digital display used to display the residual gas pressure in the container or a gas autonomy, i.e. the duration of use before the container is (almost) empty, as taught by EP-A-2918892, EP-A-3421866, US-A-2015 / 048955, US-A-6085598, EP-A-3067665 or DE-A-3809142

[0004] Such an electronic device generally comprises a housing containing one or more (micro)processors carried by a main electronic card and a display screen for calculating and / or displaying one or more parameters useful to the user, such as gas flow rate, gas pressure, autonomy, gas volume or any other parameter. Pressure measuring means are also provided, in particular a pressure sensor or combined pressure and temperature sensor fitted into the housing, i.e. fixed to each other, which are connected to the electronic card, in particular to the (micro)processor to transmit to it the pressure measurements which are processed there electronically by one or more microprocessors.

[0005] In order to be able to carry out the pressure measurements, the pressure sensor of the electronic device is fluidically connected to the internal gas circuit of the tap which is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the container and which carries the gas whose pressure and temperature are to be measured, typically via an internal channel or "tapping" passing through the connecting end piece used to fix the electronic device to the tap, as described by EP-A-3421866. Similar teaching is provided by EP-A-3455547 and FR-A-3091744.

[0006] The fact that the pressure measuring means, typically a pressure sensor and preferably a temperature sensor, are coupled to the electronic device poses maintenance problems for the electronic device. Indeed, it happens that the housing, the display screen or another element of the electronic device (i.e. different from the pressure sensor) is faulty or damaged and / or that it no longer works or works poorly. In this case, the electronic device must undergo a maintenance operation intended to replace / change it entirely, while the pressure measuring means, i.e. the pressure sensor, are still perfectly functional.

[0007] During such a maintenance operation, the decoupling of the pressure sensor from the housing to which it is attached often causes damage to the sensor, which is quite fragile, which then makes it non-functional and requires replacing not only the electronic device but also the sensor attached to it. In addition, such a replacement of the pressure sensor also requires the implementation of a procedure to check the tightness of the new sensor.

[0008] We understand that this is not acceptable because it complicates maintenance operations, and is penalizing because the time required for maintenance operations and therefore immobilization of the gas container is necessarily longer, which generates additional costs.

[0009] A problem is therefore to be able to replace the electronic device of a fluid distribution tap, when it is damaged or faulty, without risk or by limiting the risk of damaging or deteriorating the pressure measuring means, typically a pressure (and temperature) sensor, cooperating with this electronic device, when these pressure measuring means, typically this sensor, are still functional, that is to say when they operate normally and do not have to be replaced.

[0010] A solution according to the invention then relates to a container of pressurized fluid, in particular a bottle or cylinder of pressurized gas, comprising a container body having an internal volume for retaining a pressurized fluid, in particular a compressed gas, and equipped with a fluid distribution tap comprising: a valve body comprising an internal fluid circuit for conveying pressurized fluid from the internal volume of the container body, pressure measuring means configured to measure at least the pressure of the fluid within said internal fluid circuit, said pressure measuring means comprising a pressure sensor connected to the internal gas circuit to carry out one or more pressure measurements therein and an electronic device comprising main data processing means with at least one main microprocessor configured to process the pressure measurement or measurements carried out by the pressure measuring means.

[0011] Furthermore, in the container of the invention: the electronic device comprises a rigid external housing, the main data processing means being arranged in the housing of the electronic device, the pressure measuring means comprise additional data processing means comprising at least one additional microprocessor for computer processing the measurements made by the pressure sensor and obtaining processed measurements,and the pressure measuring means are arranged in the tap body in a manner separate from the electronic device by being connected only electrically to the electronic device by electrical connection means comprising a flexible electrical sheet comprising at least 4 electrical wires connecting the additional data processing means of the pressure measuring means to the main data processing means of the electronic device so as to provide them with processed measurements originating from the additional data processing means.

[0012] In other words, according to the invention, the pressure measuring means are arranged in the valve body and not in the electronic device, i.e. in a manner separate from the electronic device, being connected only electrically to said electronic device by the flexible electrical sheet to provide it with the measurements taken.

[0013] Depending on the embodiment considered, the pressurized fluid container of the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics: the pressure measuring means comprise a pressure sensor connected to the internal gas circuit to carry out the pressure measurement(s) therein. preferably, the pressure measuring means comprise a combined pressure and temperature sensor configured to carry out pressure and temperature measurements of the fluid. the sheet comprises from 4 to 20 electrical wires (i.e. thin cables) arranged in parallel with each other, i.e. wires, cables or the like. the sheet comprises from 4 to 15 electrical wires arranged in parallel with each other. the pressure measuring means are arranged in a sensor housing arranged in the valve body. the sensor housing arranged in the valve body comprises a bottom. the sensor housing arranged in the valve body is open to the outside.the sensor housing communicates fluidically with the internal fluid circuit of the valve body, preferably via a measurement port arranged in the bottom of the sensor housing. the pressure measuring means comprise at least one additional electronic card. said at least one additional electronic card comprises said at least one additional microprocessor used to computer process the measurements made by the pressure sensor and obtain processed measurements. the additional data processing means comprise one or more additional microprocessors. the electrical ribbon connects the additional data processing means to the main data processing means of the electronic device so as to provide the data processing means of the electronic device with the processed measurement(s) originating from the additional microprocessor(s) of the additional data processing means.the main data processing means are configured to determine a residual gas pressure or a gas autonomy by processing the pressure or pressure and temperature measurements, provided by the pressure measuring means, in particular by the additional microprocessor. the main data processing means of the electronic device comprise at least one main microprocessor, preferably arranged on a main electronic card. the internal gas circuit is arranged in the valve body and extends between a fluid inlet orifice in fluid communication with the internal volume of the container body and at least one fluid outlet orifice carried by a fluid dispensing nozzle. the flexible electrical sheet is flexible and deformable, to facilitate connections and its installation. the flexible electrical sheet comprises a flexible material of the polymer type or any other suitable material.the sheet comprises at its free ends electrical connection connectors configured to allow the connection of the sheet to the pressure measuring means, on the one hand, and to the electronic device, on the other hand. the pressure measuring means and the electronic device comprise electrical connection connectors complementary to those of the sheet. the complementary electrical connection connectors are arranged on the pressure (and temperature) sensor and on the main data processing means of the electronic device, in particular on the additional electronic card and on the main electronic card. the electronic device comprises a digital display for displaying the residual gas pressure and / or the gas autonomy determined by the main data processing means of the electronic device.

[0014] Furthermore, depending on the embodiment considered, the pressurized fluid container of the invention and / or the valve of the invention equipping said container may comprise one or more of the following characteristics: the electronic device comprises said at least one main microprocessor arranged on a main electronic card. the pressure and possibly temperature sensor is electrically connected to the additional data processing means to provide measurements (i.e. signals) of pressure and temperature of the fluid to said additional data processing means. the pressure and temperature sensor is configured to measure temperatures between -40°C and +70°C and pressures between 0 and at least 150 bar abs, preferably at least 250 bar abs. the pressure and temperature sensor comprises a sensor body crossed by an internal passage making it possible to measure the pressure and the temperature, i.e. constituting a single pressure and temperature tapping.the main data processing means of the electronic device, in particular the main microprocessor(s), are configured to process the pressure and temperature measurement(s). the main microprocessor(s) implement(s) one or more algorithms. the main data processing means of the electronic device comprise at least one microcontroller. More specifically, one (or more) main microprocessors may be integrated into the electronic device in the form of a microcontroller. the main microprocessor(s), in particular the microcontroller(s), is configured to record data, in particular within dedicated software or algorithm.the single pressure and temperature sensor is in fluid communication with the internal gas circuit of the fluid distribution tap so as to enable the pressure and temperature measurements of the gas conveyed by said internal circuit to be carried out, i.e. within the internal gas passage of the gas distribution tap, said internal passage being in fluid communication with the internal volume of the gas container. the data processing means, in particular the main microprocessor(s), is supplied with electric current by an electric current source. the single pressure and temperature sensor, in particular the additional data processing means of said sensor, is supplied with electric current by an electric current source.the single pressure and temperature sensor comprises additional data processing means or additional on-board electronics for determining the pressure and temperature of the gas. the additional data processing means cooperate with membrane means for determining the pressure of the gas and temperature probe means for measuring the temperature of the gas. the membrane means and the temperature probe means are arranged so as to be in contact with the gas carried by the internal passage of the sensor body, i.e. a single gas conduit. the additional data processing means, i.e. the on-board electronics of the pressure and temperature sensor, are electrically connected to the data processing means of the electronic device to communicate to them signals and / or measured pressure and temperature values, in particular via the sheet.the electronic device is a digital pressure gauge configured to provide the gas pressure or the volume of gas in the container, the gas flow rate supplied by the tap and / or the autonomy, i.e. duration of use relative to the quantity of residual fluid in the container and / or the gas supply rate by the tap. the electric current source comprises one or more batteries or electric cells, rechargeable or not. the electronic device comprises a digital display, i.e. such as an information display screen, for example of the LCD type. the pressurized fluid container comprises an internal volume for storing pressurized fluid, in particular pressurized gas. the fluid dispensing tap comprises a flow rate selection device for selecting a desired fluid flow rate, preferably between 0 and 30 L / min.The fluid dispensing valve comprises a flow outlet connection for delivering the fluid at the desired flow rate, typically a gas. The outlet connection comprises means for controlling the gas outlet. The fluid dispensing valve comprises a fluid inlet port in fluid communication with the internal gas circuit of the fluid dispensing valve so as to allow the entry of pressurized fluid into the internal gas circuit of the fluid dispensing valve. The fluid inlet port of the fluid dispensing valve is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the fluid container. The internal gas circuit of the fluid dispensing valve fluidly connects the fluid inlet port to the flow outlet connection. The internal gas circuit of the fluid dispensing valve is arranged, for example drilled, in the body of the fluid dispensing valve.the flow outlet connector of the fluid dispensing tap 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 electronic device comprises a rigid external housing, for example made of metal or polymer. the data processing means are arranged in the housing of the electronic device. the electronic device is a digital pressure gauge for determining a pressure and / or a volume of fluid and / or an autonomy, preferably in gas. 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 value. the flow selection device makes it possible to select desired gas flow rates between 0 and 30 L / min, typically between 0 and 25 L / min.the flow rate selection device further cooperates with a flow rate adjustment device arranged in the valve body in order to adjust the flow rate to the desired gas flow rate value. the flow rate adjustment device comprises a calibrated orifice disc arranged on the gas path in the valve body. the gas outlet connection is arranged in the center of the rotary handwheel, i.e. they are arranged coaxially to each other. the data processing means comprise a time counter. the container has an internal volume of between 1 and 20 . L,typically between 2 and 15 L (water equivalent). the digital display of the electronic device is configured to display information, in particular gas autonomy, gas pressure, gas volume or an alert icon, for example an autonomy alert or a hose clamping alert, or others. the data processing means are configured to trigger an audible alert and a visual alert in the event of triggering an alert, in particular a clamping alert or an autonomy alert. It further comprises data storage means. the data storage means comprise a read-only memory, preferably an EEPROM or the like. the data storage means are arranged on an electronic card, preferably on the main electronic card carrying the main microprocessor. the electronic device is fixed to the body of the gas distribution valve, in particular by screwing or by a pin system.the electrical power source electrically powers the main data processing means, typically the main electrical board, the microprocessor(s), and all components operating with electrical current, such as the digital display, the pressure and temperature sensor and / or an alert LED. the fluid distribution valve is protected by a protective cover comprising a rigid cover body arranged around said fluid distribution valve. the electrical power source is arranged in a compartment of the protective cover. the housing of the electronic device comprising the digital display is housed in an opening provided in the cover body. the cover body defines an internal volume sized to house the gas distribution valve. the cover body is made of polymer material, metal or combinations thereof.the cowling body comprises one (or more) carrying handles, preferably the carrying handle is arranged so as to surmount the cowling, that is to say it is located substantially above the cowling. the gas distribution valve is an integrated pressure reducing valve or RDI. gas pressure reducing means are arranged on the internal gas circuit. the gas pressure reducing means comprise a pressure reducing valve and a valve seat. They make it possible to reduce the gas pressure from the high pressure of the gas stored in the container, typically several tens to hundreds of bar, to a lower pre-set operating pressure, typically a few bar, for example from 2 to 5 bar abs. the fluid distribution valve 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 bar 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. the fluid container contains a pressurized gas, in particular a medical gas. 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). 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.

[0015] The invention also relates to a use of a container according to the invention for storing or supplying a gas under pressure, in particular a medical gas chosen from oxygen or a gas mixture N 2 O / O 2 , NO / N 2 , He / O 2 , medical air or another medical gas.

[0016] 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 fluid container equipped with an electronic gas distribution valve, Fig. 2 represents an embodiment of a fluid container 1 of the pressurized gas cylinder type, Fig. 3 is a diagram (front view) of an embodiment of a part of a gas distribution valve with an electronic device according to the invention, Fig. 4 is a diagram (3 / 4 view) of part of the valve of Fig. 3 , Fig. 5 is a schematic sectional view of the valve of Fig. 3 And Fig. 4 , And Fig. 6 is a sectional diagram of the pressure sensor fitted to the valve Fig. 3 à Fig. 5 .

[0017] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid container 1 under pressure, while the Fig. 2 represents an embodiment of such a fluid container 1, namely here a pressurized gas bottle of axis AA.

[0018] The fluid container 1 comprises a container body 1-1 delimiting an internal volume 2 designed to allow the storage of a pressurized fluid, typically a pressurized gas, for example medical gas, at a pressure (i.e. filled container) greater than 100 bar abs, typically at least 150 bar abs, or even more than 200 bar abs, typically a maximum pressure ranging from 130 to 300 bar abs. The container body 1-1 is generally made of metal or metal alloy, such as steel or an aluminum alloy, or of composite materials.

[0019] The container body 1-1 carries a fluid distribution tap 3, preferably an RDI, i.e. a tap with an integrated pressure regulator, crossed by an internal fluid circuit in fluid communication with the internal volume 2 of the container 1.

[0020] The valve body 3-1 is preferably made of brass or stainless steel. The internal fluid circuit (not visible) which comprises one or more gas passages arranged in the container body 1-1, for example drilled or machined, connects and extends between a fluid inlet orifice in fluid communication with the internal volume 2 of the container body 1-1 and one (or more) fluid outlet orifices carried by one (or more) fluid distribution nozzles 11 (cf. Fig. 2 , such as a flow outlet connection. This fluid circuit conveys the fluid, namely here gas, coming from the container 1 through the body of the gas distribution tap 3 to the fluid distribution nozzle 11 to which a flexible gas line (not shown) is usually fluidically connected for conveying the gas to another device (not shown) using the gas, i.e. 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.

[0021] The AA axis gas bottle or container 1 of Fig. 2 comprises a container body 1-1 of generally cylindrical shape comprising a neck, at its upper end carrying the tap 3, that is to say it is ogive-shaped. The neck comprises the fluid outlet orifice communicating with the internal volume 2 of the container 1 and making it possible to withdraw the gas from the internal volume 2 or, conversely, to fill it when it is empty. The gas distribution tap 3 is mounted, typically screwed, at the orifice of the neck of the gas cylinder 1.

[0022] The fluid stored in the container 1, i.e. stored in its internal volume 2, is typically a gas or gas mixture, for example of medical quality (i.e. a medical gas), such as oxygen, air, a NO / N 2 , O 2 / N 2 O or He / O 2 mixture, or any other gas or gas mixture.

[0023] The gas distribution tap 3 comprises pressure measuring means 4 for measuring (at least) the gas pressure within the internal circuit 3-2 of the tap body 3-1, as illustrated in Fig. 5 . They typically comprise a pressure sensor 4-1 having a pressure tap 41, i.e. a tapping, fluidically connected to the internal circuit 3-2 of the valve body 3-1, as shown diagrammatically in Fig. 6 .

[0024] Advantageously, a combined pressure and temperature sensor 4-1 is used to measure both the pressure and the temperature of the gas, within the internal gas circuit 3-2 carrying the gas coming from the internal volume 2 of the container 1. It is configured to measure temperatures between -40°C and +70°C and pressures between 0 and at least 150 bar abs.

[0025] The pressure measuring means 4 and preferably temperature measuring means are configured to provide the pressure and preferably temperature measurements (i.e. measurement signals or values) to main data processing means 5 with microprocessor comprising one or more main microprocessors 5-1 implementing one or more algorithms, for example a main electronic card carrying one (or more) main microprocessors 5-1 implementing one or more calculation algorithms or the like, preferably a microcontroller, as shown diagrammatically in Fig. 1 .

[0026] More precisely, the pressure and optionally temperature measurements or data carried out by the sensor 4-1 are processed by electronics embedded within the sensor 4-1, for example an additional or secondary electronic card with additional microprocessor(s) or similar.

[0027] Then, these measurements (i.e. signals or values) or data are sent to the main data processing means 5 comprising the main microprocessor 5-1 in order to be used there, i.e. processed electronically, in particular to determine, calculate or deduce a pressure or a gas autonomy.

[0028] An internal time counter can also be provided for the main data processing means 5.

[0029] The main data processing means 5 are arranged in the external housing 7-1 of an electronic device 7, for example a digital pressure gauge, attached to the fluid distribution tap 3. The electronic device 7 also comprises display means 6, such as a digital display, for example an LCD screen or the like, used to display various information, such as the volume or pressure of gas in the container 1 or the gas autonomy (in hours and minutes for example), which are in particular obtained by processing the pressure and / or temperature measurements by the main data processing means 5, or to display an alarm message. 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.

[0030] The housing 7-1 of the electronic device 7 may be made of polymer or metal.

[0031] It is also possible to provide, on the 7-1 box, one or more buttons 8 or selection keys that can be activated by digital pressure from the user to make choices, scroll through a menu(s), acknowledge an alarm or other.

[0032] The internal volume 2 of the container 1 (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. For example, the gas cylinders used to distribute medical oxygen (i.e. medical grade) have volumes between 1 L and 20 L (water equivalent), 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.

[0033] The storage means 9 can also record other data, such as for example the time elapsed between successive instants, pressure and / or temperature measurements, etc., or other parameters, such as the position of the selector, the configuration of the bottle, the filling pressure, alerts, etc.

[0034] More generally, the electronic device 7, for example a digital pressure gauge, which comprises the main data processing means 5 with a main microprocessor 5-1, such as a main electronic card, is housed in an opening or housing provided in the body 10 of the protective cover 13 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 .

[0035] The body 10 of the cover 13 defines an internal volume sized to house the gas distribution valve, namely here a valve with integrated pressure regulator or RDI, and further comprises one (or more) carrying handles 16 arranged here so as to surmount the cover 13, that is to say that it is located substantially above the body 10 of the cover 13, being connected to the body 10 by here two support uprights 17 projecting substantially upwards. The cover body 10 may further comprise a hooking system 18 (not completely visible), preferably a pivoting hook, designed to allow it to be hooked to a support, in particular to a hospital bed bar or to a patient transport stretcher or the like.

[0036] The electronic device 7 is electrically powered by an electrical energy source (not visible) arranged in the cover 13, for example one or more batteries or cells arranged in a battery compartment provided in the wall of the cover body and closed by a removable hatch or the like.

[0037] The electrical energy source is used to power the components of the electronic device 7 that need electrical current to operate, in particular the main data processing means 5 with main microprocessor 5-1, the display screen 6, the memory 9, etc. The electrical energy source is connected to the electronic device 7 by electrical connections, for example wires or the like.

[0038] The main data processing means 5 are also configured to control audible alert means and / or visual alert means, 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 an excessively low quantity of gas or autonomy.

[0039] As illustrated in Fig. 2 And Fig. 4 , a user-operable flow rate selection device 12, such as a rotary handwheel, carried by the valve body 3-1 serves to select a desired gas flow rate to be delivered from the outlet nozzle 11, for example a rotary handwheel rotatable 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: 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 and 25 L / min, or any other value.

[0040] Here, the desired flow rate value selected by the user by actuating the flow rate selection device 12 appears in a reading window 14 located above the flow rate selection device 12, for example a cutout provided in the body 10 of the protective cover 13 arranged around the tap 3 and serving to protect it against impacts or other external attacks.

[0041] The flow rate selection device 12 further cooperates with a flow rate adjustment device (not visible) arranged in the valve body 3-1 in order to adjust the flow rate to the desired gas flow rate value, for example the flow rate adjustment device may be a calibrated orifice disc arranged on the gas path in the valve body 3. Such an arrangement is known per se.

[0042] Once the desired gas flow rate has been selected, the position of the flow selection device 12, for example the angular position of the rotary handwheel, can be determined using one (or more) position sensor(s) 19 visible in Fig. 3 , which is electrically connected to the data processing means 5 of the electronic device 7 to provide them with position information. This then allows the data processing means 5 which process position information to know the value of the desired gas flow rate having been selected by the user.

[0043] In the embodiment of the Fig. 2 , 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). The flow outlet connection 11 carries a gas distribution orifice 11-1, which constitutes an outlet of the internal passage 3-2 of the valve body 3-1.

[0044] Preferably, as visible in Fig. 5 , the outlet nozzle or flow connection 11 comprises, upstream of the outlet orifice 11-1, gas outlet control means 11-2, typically a valve axially movable in the connection 11 and cooperating with a valve seat, sealing means, such as one or more O-rings, and an elastic means, such as a spring or the like, normally pushing the valve against the seat to ensure a gas seal when gas is not drawn off, i.e. distributed.

[0045] According to the invention, as illustrated in Fig. 3 , it must be possible to replace the electronic device 7 fixed to the body 3-1 of the fluid, i.e. gas, distribution valve 3 when it is damaged or faulty, without risk or by limiting the risk of damaging or deteriorating the pressure measuring means 4, typically a pressure or pressure and temperature sensor 4-1, cooperating with this electronic device 7, when these pressure measuring means 4 are still operating normally and do not have to be replaced.

[0046] To do this, according to the invention, the pressure measuring means 4, typically a pressure sensor 4-1, preferably a pressure and temperature sensor, are arranged on or in the valve body 3-1 in a manner separate from the electronic device 7 by being connected only electrically to the electronic device 7 by electrical connection means 20, as illustrated in Fig. 3 à Fig. 5 .

[0047] As seen on Fig. 3 à Fig. 5 , according to the invention, the pressure measuring means 4 are not directly interposed / fixed between the electronic device 7 and the valve body 3-1, but are arranged in a specific housing or sensor housing 21, machined in the valve body 3-2, which opens out, i.e. is open (at 21-2), at the external peripheral surface of the valve body 3-2 in order to be able to arrange the pressure measuring means 4 therein.

[0048] Furthermore, the sensor housing 21 communicates fluidically, at its bottom 21-1, via a measuring port 22, with the internal gas circuit 3-2 in order to allow pressure measurements and preferably gas temperature measurements to be carried out there. The measuring port 22 is arranged in the bottom 21-1 of the sensor housing 21.

[0049] The pressure measuring means 4, i.e. the additional electronics embedded in the sensor 4-1, comprising additional data processing means 42 with additional microprocessor(s) 4-7, are electrically connected to the main data processing means 5 of the electronic device 7, typically another main electronic card(s) comprising one or more main microprocessors, by electrical connection means 20 of the electrical ribbon type 20-1, as illustrated in Fig. 5 .

[0050] The electrical ribbon cable 20-1 is connected via a first end 20-1A to the data processing means 5 of the electronic device 7 and via a second end 20-1B to the pressure measuring means 4, typically to a ribbon cable connector 4-7 of the sensor 4-1 which is arranged in the sensor housing 21.

[0051] Such an electrical ribbon 20-1, also called ribbon cable or the like, comprises several thin electrical wires or cables, i.e. of small size / section, arranged in parallel with each other and fixed to each other so as to form a ribbon or a small strip of cables, for example between 2 and 20 cables, typically 4 to 15 cables.

[0052] The electrical ribbon cable 20-1 is flexible. In order to facilitate its connection to the sensor 4-1 and to the electronic device 7, its ends 20-1A, 20-1B are preferably provided with electrical connectors, such as connection strips or the like. It may be formed of polymer or the like.

[0053] Fig. 6is a sectional diagram of an embodiment of the pressure sensor 4-1 and temperature of the pressure measuring means 4. It comprises a sensor body 40 crossed by an internal passage 41, for example an axial passage, that is to say a single conduit or tapping. The internal passage 41 is fluidically connected to the internal gas circuit 3-2 passing through the body 3-1 of the fluid distribution valve 3 so that a portion of the pressurized gas (arrow G) carried by the internal gas circuit 3-2 fills this internal passage 41 in order to allow the desired pressure and temperature measurements to be carried out.

[0054] To do this, membrane means 4-4, such as a flexible membrane, and temperature probe means 4-5, such as a temperature probe, may be used. For example, the membrane may be arranged in contact with the gas conveyed by the internal passage 41 to measure the pressure of the gas and the temperature probe may be arranged, for example behind the membrane, to measure the temperature of the gas brought by the internal passage 41. The measurements made, i.e. the data, may be provided and processed by an additional microprocessor 4-6. All of these elements may be arranged on a secondary electronic card 4-3 so as to constitute all or part of the on-board electronics of the sensor 4-1, i.e. the additional data processing means 42.

[0055] We see that the secondary electronic card 4-3 can also carry a ribbon connector 4-7 in order to allow the electrical connection of the ribbon 20-1.

[0056] The pressure measuring means 4 comprise a cover or cap 44, serving to protect the fragile components of the sensor 4, typically the additional data processing means 42.

[0057] In other words, according to the invention, the pressure measurement function (and preferably temperature) has therefore been decoupled from the data display function 5 operated by the electronic device 7, which greatly facilitates any maintenance operations.

[0058] Indeed, the pressure measuring means 4, typically the pressure sensor 4-1, are no longer coupled or attached directly to the electronic device 4 but fixed to the valve body 3-1 in a manner separate from the electronic device 7, that is to say at a distance from the latter by being arranged in a sensor housing 21 machined, for example drilled, in the valve body 3-1 and connected to the data processing means 5 of the electronic device 7 via one or more connection cables, that is to say the ribbon cable 20-1 comprising several thin cables grouped together and equipped at its ends 20-1A, 20-1B with connectors at their ends.

[0059] It is therefore sufficient to simply disconnect the ribbon cable 20-1 connecting the pressure (and temperature) sensor 4-1, in particular the additional data processing means 42, to the electronic device 7, via the connectors of the ribbon cable 20-1, to carry out the required maintenance, i.e. the replacement of the electronic device 7 without also having to dismantle the sensor 4-1.

[0060] Electrical connection connectors complementary to those of the sheet 20-1 are arranged on the pressure sensor 4-1 or the additional data processing means 42, such as the additional electronic card, and in the electronic device 7, in particular on the main electronic card, to allow the connectors located at the ends 20-1A, 20-1B of the sheet 20-1 to be connected there.

[0061] By using such a 20-1 sheet, there is therefore no longer any risk of damaging the pressure sensor 4-1 or its assembly, nor of causing an untimely leak. It is therefore no longer necessary to check the seal between the sensor 4-1 and the valve body 3-1, after maintenance and replacement of the electronic device 7.

[0062] The container according to the invention is particularly well suited for use in storing a medical gas chosen from oxygen, a gas mixture N 2 O / O 2 , NO / N 2 or He / O 2 , or medical air, advantageously medical grade oxygen.

Claims

1. Container (1) for pressurized fluid, in particular a gas cylinder, comprising a container body (1-1) having an internal volume (2) for holding a pressurized fluid and equipped with a fluid distribution valve (3) comprising: - a valve body (3-1) comprising an internal fluid circuit (3-2) for conveying the pressurized fluid coming from the internal volume of the container body (1-1), - pressure measurement means (4) configured to measure at least the pressure of the fluid within said internal fluid circuit, said pressure measurement means (4) comprising a pressure sensor (4-1) connected to the internal gas circuit (3-2) in order to perform one or more pressure measurements therein, and - an electronic device (7) comprising main data processing means (5) with at least one main microprocessor (5-1), which are configured to process the one or more pressure measurements performed by the pressure measurement means (4), characterized in that: - the electronic device (7) comprises a rigid external casing (7-1), the main data processing means (5) being arranged in the casing (7-1) of the electronic device (7), - the pressure measurement means (4) comprise additional data processing means (42) comprising at least one additional microprocessor (4-7) for computer-processing the measurements performed by the pressure sensor (4-1) and for obtaining processed measurements, and - the pressure measurement means (4) are arranged in the valve body (3-1) in a manner dissociated from the electronic device (7), being electrically connected to the electronic device (7) only by electrical connection means (20) comprising a flexible electric ribbon (20-1) comprising at least 4 electric wires connecting the additional data processing means (42) of the pressure measurement means (4) to the main data processing means (5) of the electronic device (7) in order to supply them with processed measurements coming from the additional data processing means (42).

2. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the ribbon (20-1) comprises 4 to 20 electric wires arranged in parallel with one another.

3. Container according to either of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure measurement means (4) comprise a combined pressure and temperature sensor (4-1) for performing pressure and temperature measurements of the fluid.

4. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the main data processing means (5) of the electronic device (7) comprise at least one main microprocessor arranged on a main electronic board.

5. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that the electric ribbon (20-1) is connected via a first end (20-1A) to the main data processing means (5) of the electronic device (7) and via a second end (20-1B) to the pressure measurement means (4).

6. Container according to Claim 5, characterized in that the electric ribbon (20-1) is connected via the second end (20-1B) to a ribbon connector (4-7) of the sensor (4-1) of the pressure measurement means (4).

7. Container according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the pressure measurement means (4) are arranged in a sensor housing (21) formed in the valve body (3-1).

8. Container according to Claim 7, characterized in that the sensor housing (21) communicates fluidically with the internal fluid circuit (3-2) of the valve body (3-1).

9. Container according to Claim 8, characterized in that the sensor housing (21) communicates fluidically with the internal fluid circuit (3-2) of the valve body (3-1) via a measurement port (22) formed in a bottom (21-1) of the sensor housing (21).

10. Container according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the main data processing means (5) of the electronic device (7) are configured to determine a residual gas pressure or remaining gas by processing the pressure measurements or pressure and temperature measurements supplied by the pressure measurement means (4).

11. Container according to Claim 1, characterized in that: - the at least one main microprocessor (5-1) is arranged on a main electronic board, and / or - the at least one additional microprocessor (4-7) is arranged on an additional electronic board.

12. Container according to Claim 3, characterized in that the combined pressure and temperature sensor (4-1) is configured to measure temperatures of between -40°C and +70°C and pressures of between 0 and at least 150 bar abs.

13. Container according to Claim 2, characterized in that the ribbon (20-1) comprises 4 to 15 electric wires arranged in parallel with one another.

14. Container according to Claims 1 and 10, characterized in that the electronic device (7) comprises a digital display for displaying the residual gas pressure and / or the remaining gas as determined by the main data processing means (5) of the electronic device (7).

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

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