Pressurized fluid container with electronic device and detection of a malfunction of the temperature sensor

Abstract

The invention relates to a pressurized fluid container (1), in particular a gas cylinder, the internal volume (2) of which contains the fluid, such as a compressed gas, and is equipped with a fluid dispensing valve (3). The valve body is traversed by a fluid circuit, an electronic device (7) comprising microprocessor-based data processing means (5) (15), and a first temperature sensor (4) that measures the temperature (Tf) of the fluid in the internal fluid circuit. A second temperature sensor (30) is integrated into the microprocessor (15) and measures the temperature (Tm) of said microprocessor (15). The data processing means (5) detect a malfunction of the first temperature sensor (4) by comparing the temperature measurements (Tm, Tf) taken by the two temperature sensors (4, 30), and trigger an audible or visual alert in response to such a malfunction detection.Use of the container to store oxygen or another gas.

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 detection of a malfunction of the temperature sensor, and its use for storing or dispensing a pressurized gas, in particular a medical gas chosen from oxygen or a gas mixture N 2 O / O 2 , NO / N 2 , He / O 2 , Ar / O 2 or medical air, i.e. of medical quality.

[0002] Medical fluids or gases, such as oxygen, NO / N 2 , N 2 O / O 2 , He / O 2 mixtures, medical air or other, are generally packaged in pressurized gas containers, in particular gas cylinders or canisters, which are equipped with a distribution tap, with (RDI) or without an integrated pressure reduction system, used to supply the medical gas and a needle pressure gauge or an electronic device with a digital display used to display the residual gas pressure or gas autonomy. Thus, EP-A-2918893 proposes a gas cylinder equipped with an RDI and a needle pressure gauge, while EP-A-2918892 proposes a gas cylinder equipped with an RDI and an electronic device with a digital display screen, i.e. digital. In general, a rigid protective cover, also called a "hat", is used to protect the faucet and its equipment against shocks, falls, dirt, etc.

[0003] The electronic device includes in particular (micro)processor control means and a display screen, cooperating with pressure and temperature sensors, in order to be able to measure the pressure and temperature of the gas, then to calculate and display useful information, such as the volume of gas or the gas pressure in the container and / or gas autonomy depending on the gas flow rate delivered by the distribution tap.

[0004] The pressure and temperature sensors are usually integrated into the electronic device. They are connected to the gas circuit carrying the pressurized gas into the body of the dispensing valve, via a tapping, i.e. a small channel allowing the pressurized gas to be brought to the measuring elements of these sensors, as illustrated by EP-A-3421866.

[0005] To determine the temperature of the gas, a temperature sensor can be used to measure only the temperature of the gas as described by EP-A-3067665, or a combined pressure and temperature sensor can measure both temperature and pressure, as described by FR-A-3112192 or FR-A-3133425.

[0006] However, it happens that the temperature sensor, whether it is a combined temperature and pressure sensor or a temperature-only sensor, malfunctions and provides erroneous or aberrant temperature measurements to the control means, which then use these erroneous measurements to calculate, in particular, a gas autonomy which is then necessarily erroneous.

[0007] US-A-10,371,587 is also known, which teaches a system for filling the tank of a vehicle running on hydrogen. It comprises a first temperature sensor measuring the temperature in the hydrogen tank and a second temperature sensor measuring the temperature outside the tank, in particular a sensor measuring the ambient temperature. A comparison of the temperatures makes it possible to detect a deviation (drift) in the temperature measurement made by the first sensor. Then, if a deviation is observed, the system simply prevents the tank from being filled with hydrogen. This does not make it possible to detect erroneous or aberrant temperature measurements but only a classic deviation of the sensor which occurs naturally with all sensors and simply requires calibration.

[0008] A problem is therefore to be able to quickly detect a malfunction of the temperature sensor in order to avoid calculation and display of erroneous data by the electronic device, in particular gas autonomy, and then to alert the user of this malfunction of the temperature sensor.

[0009] One solution of the invention relates to a pressurized fluid container, in particular a compressed (i.e. pressurized) gas cylinder, comprising an internal volume for receiving a pressurized fluid, in particular a pressurized gas (i.e. compressed gas), and being equipped with a fluid dispensing tap comprising: a valve body crossed by an internal fluid circuit configured to convey the fluid coming from the internal volume of the fluid container, within the valve body, an electronic device comprising control means comprising at least one microprocessor, and a first temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature (Tf) of the fluid in the internal fluid circuit of the valve body and provide at least one temperature measurement (Tf) to the control means of the electronic device.

[0010] Furthermore, according to the invention: the control means further comprise at least one second temperature sensor integrated into said at least one microprocessor and configured to measure the temperature (T m ) of said microprocessor, and the control means are configured to detect a malfunction of the first temperature sensor by processing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) carried out by the first and second temperature sensors, and to trigger an alert, i.e. an alarm, audible or visual in response to a detection of a malfunction of said first temperature sensor.

[0011] Furthermore, the data processing means of the pressurized fluid container according to the invention are configured to detect the malfunction of the first temperature sensor by: comparing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) made by the first and second temperature sensors with each other and determining the existence of a malfunction of the first temperature sensor (4) when the difference between the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) is greater than or equal to a pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ), ie when |Tm - Tf| ≥ S tem (absolute value) where the temperature threshold (S temp ) is stored and at least 10°C, ie the alert is triggered when: |Tm - Tf| ≥ 10°C.

[0012] Furthermore, the data processing means are configured to trigger an audible or visual alert in response to a detection of malfunction of said first temperature sensor when said detection of malfunction of said first temperature sensor is repeated over a given duration (T) of several tens of minutes and / or for at least 5 successive temperature measurements (T m , Tf).

[0013] Depending on the embodiment considered, the fluid container equipped with the dispensing tap according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics: the internal fluid circuit of the valve body is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the fluid container. the electronic device is arranged on the valve body. the first temperature sensor is a combined pressure and temperature sensor configured to measure the pressure and temperature (Tf) of the fluid in the internal fluid circuit of the valve body. the first temperature (and pressure) sensor is connected to the internal fluid circuit of the valve body via a channel or tapping arranged in the valve body, for example drilled through the valve body. the channel or tapping is in fluid communication with the internal fluid circuit of the valve body so as to bring pressurized fluid to the first temperature sensor and thus allow temperature and preferably pressure measurements.it comprises storage means, preferably a computer memory, such as a flash memory or the like. the temperature threshold (S temp ) is stored within the storage means, preferably a computer memory. the pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ) is at least 11°C, i.e. the alert is triggered when |Tm - Tf| ≥ 11°C. the pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ) is at least 12°C, i.e. the alert is triggered when |Tm - Tf| ≥ 12°C. the pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ) is at least 13°C, i.e. the alert is triggered when |Tm - Tf| ≥ 13°C. the pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ) is at least 14°C, i.e. the alert is triggered when |Tm - Tf| ≥ 14°C. preferably the pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ) is at least 15°C, i.e. the alert is triggered when |Tm - Tf| ≥ 15°C.the data processing means are configured to trigger an audible or visual alert, i.e. the alert is only activated if a temperature threshold (S temp ) is exceeded over a series of at least 10 successive measurements (T m , Tf) and / or for a given duration (T) of at least 30 minutes, preferably at least 45 minutes. the given duration (T) is preferably from one to several hours, for example from 1 to 2 hours (in particular in the absence of gas delivery). the given duration (T) may or may not be prefixed. the given duration (T) may or may not be stored. the data processing means are configured to trigger an audible or visual alert, i.e. the alert is only activated if a temperature threshold (S temp ) is exceeded over a series of at least 5 successive measurements (T m , Tf) carried out over a given duration (T) of at least 30 minutes.the temperatures (T m , Tf) operated simultaneously or approximately simultaneously by the two temperature sensors, i.e. the same instant t. the alert is only activated if a temperature threshold (S temp ) is exceeded for at least 7 successive temperature measurements (T m , Tf), preferably for at least 8 successive temperature measurements (T m , Tf). the computer memory is independent or integrated into one or the microprocessor of the data processing means. the temperature threshold (S temp ) and / or the given duration (T) are non-modifiable, for example factory-set. according to another embodiment, the temperature threshold (S temp ) and / or the given duration (T) may be modifiable or adjustable. the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) are operated by the first and second temperature sensors at given time intervals, typically at least once per hour, in particular when there is no gas delivery (i.e.absence of delivery or withdrawal of gas). the data processing means are further configured to compare the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) made by the first and second temperature sensors with at least one upper limit threshold (SLh) and at least one lower limit threshold (SLb) to determine one or more aberrant temperature measurements. the data processing means are configured to determine that a temperature measurement (Tf) made by the first temperature sensor is aberrant when said temperature measurement (Tf) is greater than or equal to a first upper limit threshold (SLh 1 ) or less than or equal to a first low limit threshold (SLb 1 ).the data processing means are configured to determine that a temperature measurement (T m ) carried out by the second temperature sensor is aberrant when said temperature measurement (T m ) is greater than or equal to a second upper limit threshold (SLh 2 ) or less than or equal to a second lower limit threshold (SLb 2 ). the upper (SLh) and lower (SLb) limit thresholds are prefixed. the upper (SLh) and lower (SLb) limit thresholds are stored in storage means, for example stored in the or a microprocessor of the data processing means. the first and second upper (SLh 1 , SLh 2 ) and lower (SLb 1 , SLb 2 ) temperature thresholds, respectively, may be identical or different for the two temperature sensors.the first lower limit threshold (SLb 1 ) of the first temperature sensor and / or the second lower limit threshold (SLb 2 ) of the second temperature sensor are less than -20°C, preferably less than -30°C, more preferably less than or equal to -40°C. the first upper limit threshold (SLh 1 ) of the first temperature sensor and / or the second upper limit threshold (SLh 2 ) of the second temperature sensor are at least 90°C, preferably at least 100°C, more preferably at least 105°C. for example, for the first temperature sensor, the first lower limit threshold (SLb 1 ) is equal to approximately -40°C and the first upper limit threshold (SLh 1 ) is equal to approximately 105°C. for example, for the second temperature sensor, the second low limit threshold (SLb 2 ) is equal to -40°C (i.e. SLh 1 = SLh 2 ) and the second high limit threshold (SLh 2 ) is equal to 125°C (i.e. SLb 1 < SLb 2 ).the data processing means are configured to carry out a detection of one or more aberrant temperature measurements (Tf, Tm) prior to the step of comparing with each other (i.e. step i) above), the temperature measurements (Tm, Tf) carried out by the first and second temperature sensors. the data processing means comprise at least one microprocessor arranged on one (or more) electronic card. the data processing means are arranged in a housing of the electronic device. it comprises audible alert means and / or visual alert means. the audible alert means comprise a loudspeaker and / or a buzzer or the like. the visual alert means one or more light devices, such as one or more LEDs, arranged on the electronic device, in particular on the housing of the electronic device.the audible alert means and / or visual alert means are electrically connected and controlled by the data processing means. the first sensor, i.e. the pressure and temperature sensor, comprises a sensor body crossed by an internal passage, said internal passage being fluidically connected to the internal gas circuit of the fluid dispensing tap, membrane means and temperature probe means are arranged in the first sensor to measure the pressure and temperature of the gas within said internal passage. the first sensor is electrically connected to the data processing means to provide measurements (i.e. signals) of pressure and temperature of the fluid to said data processing means. the first sensor is configured to measure temperatures between -40°C and +70°C. the first sensor, i.e.the pressure and temperature sensor comprises a sensor body crossed by an internal passage for measuring the pressure and temperature, i.e. constituting a single pressure and temperature tapping. the first pressure and temperature sensor comprises a sensor body crossed by an internal passage fluidly connected to the internal gas circuit of the fluid distribution tap. membrane means and temperature probe means are arranged in the first pressure and temperature sensor and are configured to measure the pressure and temperature of the gas within said internal passage. the microprocessor(s) implements one or more algorithms. the data processing 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(s), in particular the microcontroller(s), is configured to record data, in particular within dedicated software or algorithm. the internal gas circuit of the fluid dispensing valve is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the fluid container used to store the fluid under pressure. the data processing means, in particular the microprocessor, is supplied with electric current by an electric current source. the first sensor is supplied with electric current by an electric current source. the first sensor comprises on-board electronics for determining the temperature of the fluid, preferably the pressure and the temperature. the first sensor comprises on-board electronics comprising 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 conveyed by the internal passage of the sensor body, i.e. a single gas conduit. the on-board electronics of the first sensor, i.e. a single pressure and temperature sensor, are electrically connected to the data processing means to communicate to them signals and / or measured temperature and preferably pressure values. the on-board electronics of the first sensor comprise one (or more) additional microprocessors. the electronic device is a digital pressure gauge configured to provide the fluid pressure or the volume of fluid 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 flow rate by the tap.the electrical current source comprises one or more batteries or electric cells, rechargeable or not. the electronic device comprises a digital display, ie 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 valve 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 rate outlet connector for delivering the fluid at the desired flow rate, typically a gas. 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 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 to the flow outlet connector. 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 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 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 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. the flow rate 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 body of the valve 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 body of the valve. the gas outlet connection is arranged in the center of the rotary handwheel, that is to say they are arranged coaxially with each other. the data processing means comprise a time counter. 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 information, in particular gas autonomy, gas pressure, gas volume or an alert icon in the event of an alert being triggered, for example an autonomy or hose clamp alert, a defective or malfunctioning sensor alert, or any other alert. it further comprises data storage means, i.e. a computer storage memory or the like. 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 electronic card carrying the 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 energy source electrically powers the data processing means, typically the electrical card, the microprocessor(s), and all components operating with electrical current, such as the digital display, the pressure and temperature sensor and / or one or more alert LEDs. the fluid distribution valve is protected by a protective cover comprising a rigid cover body arranged around said fluid distribution valve. the electrical current source, e.g. one or more batteries, 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 a valve with integrated pressure regulator or RDI. gas pressure relief means are arranged on the internal gas circuit. the gas pressure relief means comprise a pressure relief 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.

[0014] Furthermore, the invention 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, a gas mixture N 2 O / O 2 , NO / N 2 , He / O 2 , Ar / O 2 or medical air.

[0015] According to yet another aspect, the invention also relates to a method for detecting a malfunction of the first temperature sensor arranged on a pressurized fluid container, in particular a gas cylinder, said pressurized fluid container comprising an internal volume for receiving a pressurized fluid, in particular a gas, and being equipped with a fluid dispensing tap comprising: a tap body traversed by an internal fluid circuit configured to convey the fluid coming from the internal volume of the fluid container, within the tap body, an electronic device comprising data processing means comprising at least one microprocessor, and said first temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature (Tf) of the fluid in the internal fluid circuit of the tap body and provide at least one temperature measurement (T f ) to the data processing means of the electronic device, in which: the temperature of said microprocessor (T m ) is measured by means of at least one second temperature sensor integrated into said at least one microprocessor of said data processing means, the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) made by the first and second temperature sensors are processed to detect a malfunction of the first temperature sensor,and an audible or visual alert is triggered in response to detection of a malfunction of said first temperature sensor.

[0016] In other words, the invention also relates to a method for detecting a malfunction of the first temperature sensor arranged on a fluid container according to the invention in which: the temperature (Tf) of the fluid in the internal fluid circuit of the valve body is measured by means of the first temperature sensor, the temperature of the microprocessor (T m ) is measured by means of the second temperature sensor integrated into the microprocessor of the data processing means, the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) made by the first and second temperature sensors are processed to detect a malfunction of the first temperature sensor by: . comparing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) with each other and .determining the existence of a malfunction of the first temperature sensor when the difference between the temperature measurements (T m , T f ) is greater than or equal to a pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ) of at least 10°C, and an audible or visual alert is triggered in response to a detection of a malfunction of said first temperature sensor when the detection of a malfunction is repeated over a given period of several tens of minutes and / or for at least 5 successive temperature measurements (T m , Tf).

[0017] Depending on the embodiment considered, the method of the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics: the temperature measurements (T m , T f ) are processed within the data processing means. the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) are processed by comparing a temperature measurement of the fluid (Tf) made by the first temperature sensor with a temperature measurement of said microprocessor (T m ) made by the second temperature sensor. a malfunction of the first temperature sensor is detected when the difference between the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) is greater than or equal to a pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ), i.e. when |Tm - Tf| ≥ S temp . the pre-set temperature threshold (S temp ) is at least 10°C, preferably at least 15°C.the first temperature sensor is considered to be malfunctioning when a malfunction of the first temperature sensor is detected repeatedly over a given duration (T) and / or for several successive temperature measurements (T m , Tf), preferably at least 5 successive temperature measurements (T m , Tf), preferably at least 10 successive temperature measurements (T m , Tf) prior to comparing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) with each other, at least one aberrant temperature measurement is detected by comparing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) made by the first and second temperature sensors with at least one upper limit threshold (SLh) and at least one lower limit threshold (SLb).a temperature measurement (Tf) made by the first temperature sensor is determined to be aberrant when said temperature measurement (Tf) is greater than or equal to a first upper limit threshold (SLh 1 ) or less than or equal to a first lower limit threshold (SLb 1 ). a temperature measurement (T m ) made by the second temperature sensor is determined to be aberrant when said temperature measurement (T m ) is greater than or equal to a second upper limit threshold (SLh 2 ) or less than or equal to a second lower limit threshold (SLb 2 ). the upper (SLh) and lower (SLb) limit thresholds are prefixed and / or stored. the first lower limit threshold (SLb 1 ) of the first temperature sensor and / or the second lower limit threshold (SLb 2 ) of the second temperature sensor are less than -20°C, preferably less than -30°C, preferably less than or equal to -40°C.the first upper limit threshold (SLh 1 ) of the first temperature sensor and / or the second upper limit threshold (SLh 2 ) of the second temperature sensor are at least 90°C, preferably at least 100°C, preferably at least 105°C. the first lower limit threshold (SLb 1 ) of the first temperature sensor and / or the second lower limit threshold (SLb 2 ) of the second temperature sensor is equal to approximately - 40°C. the first upper limit threshold (SLh 1 ) of the first temperature sensor is equal to approximately 105°C. the second upper limit threshold (SLh 2 ) of the second temperature sensor is equal to 125°C (i.e. SLb 1 < SLb 2 ). the detected outlier(s) are ignored by the data processing means, i.e. are not used to determine a malfunction of the first sensor.

[0018] The invention also relates to a use of a container according to the invention, in particular a pressurized gas cylinder, for storing or supplying a pressurized gas, in particular a medical gas chosen from oxygen or a gas mixture N 2 O / O 2 , NO / N 2 , He / O 2 , Ar / O 2 or medical air.

[0019] 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 a gas distribution valve with an electronic device according to the invention, Fig. 2 represents an embodiment of a fluid container 1 of the pressurized gas cylinder type according to the invention. Fig. 3 schematizes a single pressure and temperature sensor usable on a fluid container according to the invention.

[0020] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a pressurized fluid container 1 according to the invention, whereas the Fig. 2 represents an embodiment of such a fluid container 1, namely here a pressurized gas cylinder of axis AA.

[0021] The fluid container 1 comprises an internal volume 2 for storing fluid, namely here a gas under pressure, for example at more than 200 bar abs (full pressure), and is equipped with a fluid distribution valve 3, such as an RDI or integrated pressure reducing valve, 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 here gas, within the body of the gas distribution valve 3 to a flow outlet connection 11 to which is fluidically connected for example a flexible gas pipe (not shown) or another device using the delivered gas.

[0022] The AA axis gas bottle or container 1 of Fig. 2 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 orifice communicating with the internal volume 2 and allowing gas to be withdrawn from the internal volume 2 or, conversely, to be filled when it is empty. The gas distribution valve 3 is mounted, typically screwed, at the orifice of the neck of the gas cylinder.

[0023] The container 1 has a generally cylindrical shape, in particular a bullet-shaped shape, made of metal or metal alloy (e.g. steel, aluminium, etc.) or of composite material(s). It contains a gas or gas mixture, such as oxygen, a NO / N 2 , O 2 / N 2 O, Ar / O 2 or He / O 2 mixture, air or other.

[0024] The gas distribution tap 3, namely here an RDI including internal expansion means, is aimed at the neck of the gas cylinder. It comprises a gas distribution connector or nozzle, called flow outlet connector 11, to which can be connected for example a flexible gas line, such as a flexible plastic pipe, 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.

[0025] The faucet body is preferably made of brass or stainless steel.

[0026] The gas distribution valve 3 here comprises a first sensor 4, which is here a combined temperature and pressure sensor, for measuring not only the temperature of the fluid (Tf), i.e. here of the gas, but also the pressure of the fluid, within the internal fluid passage and / or in the internal volume 2 of the container 1, and providing temperature and pressure measurements (i.e. measurement values ​​or signals) to data processing means 5 with a microprocessor 15, i.e. a control device or a data processing unit comprising one or more microprocessors 15 implementing one or more algorithms, for example an electronic card carrying one (or more) microprocessors 15 implementing one or more calculation algorithms or others, preferably a microcontroller. The data processing means 5 are also called control means, control electronics or the like.

[0027] Fig. 3 schematizes a single pressure and temperature sensor usable as first 4 in the context of the invention. 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 fluid circuit of the fluid distribution valve 3 so that a portion of the fluid (i.e. gas) under pressure conveyed by the internal fluid circuit passing through the body of the distribution valve 3, fills this internal passage 41 so as to allow the desired pressure and temperature measurements to be carried out.

[0028] To do this, membrane means and temperature probe means connected to electronics embedded in the single pressure and temperature sensor 4 can be used. For example, a membrane can be provided in contact with the gas conveyed by the internal passage 41 to measure the pressure of the fluid and a temperature probe can be arranged, for example behind the membrane, to measure the temperature of the fluid brought by the internal passage 41. The pressure and temperature measurements can be processed by the onboard electronics of the sensor, for example an internal microprocessor electronic card, then sent to the data processing means 5 comprising the microprocessor 15 in order to be used there, in particular to determine a gas autonomy.

[0029] The data processing means 5 with microprocessor 15 are configured to process the pressure and temperature measurements provided by the pressure and temperature sensor 4. They are preferably arranged in the housing 8 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.

[0030] 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 to be delivered through the outlet connection 11 in flow, for example to meet a prescription from a doctor or the like.

[0031] As illustrated in Fig. 2 , 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. The desired flow rate value selected by the user by actuating the flow rate selection device 12, i.e. rotary handwheel, 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.The flow rate selection device 12 further cooperates with a flow rate adjustment device arranged in the valve body 3 in order to adjust the flow rate to the desired gas flow rate value, for example the flow rate adjustment device may be a disc with calibrated orifices arranged on the gas path in the valve body 3. Such an arrangement is known per se. Once the desired gas flow rate 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 data processing means 5 to know the desired gas flow rate value having been selected.

[0032] 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).

[0033] Furthermore, the pressure and temperature sensor 4 is configured and arranged to measure the pressure and temperature of the gas in the cylinder 1 and then provide the pressure and / or temperature measurements made to the data processing means 5. A time counter may also be provided, for example internal to the data processing means 5.

[0034] The pressure and temperature measurements made and transmitted by the first pressure and temperature sensor 4 are, for example, signals which represent either pressure and / or temperature values, or other quantities, such as voltage or current values, corresponding to pressure and / or temperature values. These pressure and / or temperature measurements are processed by the data processing means 5, in particular by the microprocessor 15, to determine various information, in particular the volume or pressure of gas in the container 1 or the autonomy. This information can be displayed on the display 6.

[0035] 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, gas cylinders equipped with this type used to distribute medical oxygen (i.e. medical grade) typically 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.

[0036] The storage means 9 can also record other data, such as for example the time elapsing 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.

[0037] More generally, the electronic device 7, for example a digital pressure gauge, which comprises the data processing means 5 with microprocessor 15, such as an 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 .

[0038] 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.

[0039] The cover body 10 further comprises 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.

[0040] 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 8, in particular the front face, of the electronic device 7, as illustrated in Fig. 2 .

[0041] The digital display 6 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 arranged in the wall of the cover body and closed by a removable hatch or the like. The electrical energy source also serves to power the other components of the electronic device 7 requiring electrical current to operate, in particular the data processing means 5 with microprocessor 15.

[0042] 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 volume, autonomy (in hours and minutes) or other information or data, for example the value of the desired or actual gas flow rate (in L / min or in another unit), or the gas autonomy (in hours and minutes) can also be represented by a bar graph. For example, the digital display 6 comprises a screen with a height of between approximately 29 and 37 mm and a width, for example, of between approximately 39 and 43 mm.

[0043] The data processing means 5 with microprocessor 15, typically an electronic card 31 or the like, are also configured to control audible alert means and / or visual alert means, preferably both, for example one or more light alert LEDs and the activation of a buzzer (i.e. an audible warning device) or a loudspeaker in the event of an audible alert, so as to trigger at least one audible alert and / or one visual alert and warn the user, preferably both, in the event of detection of a malfunction, in particular a malfunctioning sensor as explained below, or other alerts, such as a hose clamp, or a quantity of gas or autonomy that is too low.

[0044] Furthermore, according to the invention, a second temperature sensor 30 is provided directly integrated into the microprocessor 15 of the data processing means 5. This second temperature sensor 30 is configured to measure the temperature (T m ) of said microprocessor 15.

[0045] The control means 5, in particular the microprocessor 15, can detect a malfunction of the first temperature sensor 4 via processing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) carried out by the first and second temperature sensors 4, 30, and then trigger an audible or visual alert in response to such detection of a malfunction of the first temperature sensor 4, namely here a combined pressure and temperature sensor, as illustrated in Fig. 3 .

[0046] The temperatures (T m , Tf) are measured by the two temperature sensors 4, 30, at regular intervals, for example at a frequency of at least once per hour. Of course, another frequency is possible.

[0047] Preferably, the temperatures (T m , Tf) operated simultaneously or approximately simultaneously by the two temperature sensors 4, 30, that is to say the same instant t.

[0048] More precisely, to detect a malfunction of the first temperature sensor 4, the control means 5 begin by verifying that the temperature measurements made by the first temperature sensor 4 are not aberrant, that is to say by ensuring that these temperature measurements are indeed included in the range of acceptable values.

[0049] In fact, the temperature values ​​operated by the first and second temperature sensors that are higher than a(n) upper limit threshold (SLh) or lower than a(n) lower limit threshold (SLb) are considered as aberrant. The upper and lower temperature thresholds can be the same or different for the two temperature sensors.

[0050] For example, the following threshold limits can be set: for the first temperature sensor 4, the first low limit threshold (SLb 1 ) is set at approximately -40°C and the first high limit threshold (SLh 1 ) is set at approximately 105°C; and for the second temperature sensor 30, the second low limit threshold (SLb 2 ) is also set at approximately -40°C and the second high limit threshold (SLh 2 ) is set at approximately 125°C.

[0051] Any detected outlier is ignored.

[0052] In other words, a step of detecting the aberrant values ​​of the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) is preferably carried out before any step of comparing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) carried out by the first and second temperature sensors to each other, as detailed below.

[0053] This step of detecting outliers is advantageous because it makes it possible to avoid or minimize the triggering of untimely, i.e. unjustified, alerts.

[0054] Once any aberrant measurements have been detected and then ignored, the control means 5 process, i.e. compare, the temperature measurements T f (i.e. the non-aberrant measurements) made by the first temperature sensor 4 with the temperature measurements T m made by the second temperature sensor 30 integrated into the microprocessor 15, and determine a malfunction of the first temperature sensor 4 when these temperature measurements (T m , T f ) made by the first and second temperature sensors 4, 30 differ significantly from one another.

[0055] In fact, there is a correlation between the temperature of the fluid and that of the microprocessor 15, regardless of the fluid withdrawal flow rate, given that the pressure sensor 4 incorporates temperature compensation.

[0056] From there, a notable difference (in absolute value), for example of 15°C (or another prefixed value), between the temperature values ​​(T m , Tf) measured by the first and second temperature sensors 4, 30 is a sign of a malfunction of the first temperature sensor 4, when this difference is persistent over several consecutive checks, for example 10.

[0057] In other words, the data processing means or control means 5 compare the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) made by the two sensors at a time t and deduce from this comparison the existence of an inconsistency between the two temperature measurements (T m , Tf), when we have: Tm − Tf ≥ 15 ° C

[0058] Preferably, the data processing means 5 then trigger an alert only if this inconsistency between the two temperature measurements persists for several consecutive measurements, for example 10 consecutive measurements, or an equivalent given duration T, for example a stored duration.

[0059] Not triggering an alert immediately but only after several successive detections of a measurement inconsistency, makes it possible to limit the risk of triggering false alerts resulting from a measurement error and / or a one-off and unsustainable rise in the temperature measured by one or other of the sensors.

[0060] The first temperature sensor 4 is then considered to be malfunctioning and the user is warned by the alert triggering so that he can carry out maintenance on the malfunctioning sensor or replace it.

[0061] A sensor malfunction may also be displayed as a visual alert on the digital display 6, such as an LCD screen or the like.

[0062] The container of the invention, in particular a pressurized gas bottle or cylinder, is adapted and designed to store and / or to supply a pressurized gas, in particular a medical gas (i.e. medical grade), such as oxygen, a gas mixture, such as N 2 O / O 2 , NO / N 2 , He / O 2 , Ar / O 2 mixtures, or medical air.

Claims

1. Container (1) for pressurized fluid, in particular a gas bottle, comprising an internal volume (2) for receiving a pressurized fluid, and being equipped with a fluid dispensing tap (3) comprising: - a tap body crossed by an internal fluid circuit configured to convey the fluid coming from the internal volume (2) of the fluid container (1), within the tap body, - an electronic device (7) comprising data processing means (5) comprising at least one microprocessor (15), and - a first temperature sensor (4) configured to measure the temperature (Tf) of the fluid in the internal fluid circuit of the tap body and provide at least one temperature measurement (T f ) to the data processing means (5) of the electronic device (7), characterized in that: - the data processing means (5) further comprise at least one second temperature sensor (30) integrated into said at least one microprocessor (15) and configured to measure the temperature (T m ) of said microprocessor (15), and - the data processing means (5) are configured to: • detect a malfunction of the first temperature sensor (4) by processing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) operated by the first and second temperature sensors (4, 30), and • trigger an audible or visual alert in response to a detection of malfunction of said first temperature sensor (4). and in which: - the data processing means (5) are configured to operate a detection of the malfunction of the first temperature sensor (4) by: i) comparing the temperature measurements (T m, Tf) operated by the first and second temperature sensors (4, 30) to each other and ii) determining the existence of a malfunction of the first temperature sensor (4) when the difference between the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) is greater than or equal to a temperature threshold (S temp ) prefixed, ie when |Tm - Tf| ≥ S temp , the temperature threshold (S temp ) being stored and at least 10°C, - and the data processing means (5) are configured to trigger an audible or visual alert in response to a detection of malfunction of said first temperature sensor (4) when said detection of malfunction of said first temperature sensor (4) is repeated over a given duration (T) of several tens of minutes and / or for at least 5 temperature measurements (T m , Tf) successive.

2. Container according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature threshold (S temp) prefixed is at least 12°C.

3. Container according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature threshold (S temp ) prefixed is at least 15°C.

4. Container according to claim 1, characterized in that the given duration (T) is from one to several hours.

5. Container according to claim 1, characterized in that the data processing means (5) are configured to trigger an audible or visual alert in response to a detection of malfunction of said first temperature sensor (4) which is repeated for at least 10 temperature measurements (T m , Tf) successive.

6. Container according to claim 1, characterized in that the first temperature sensor (4) is a combined pressure and temperature sensor configured to measure the pressure and temperature (Tf) of the fluid in the internal fluid circuit of the valve body.

7. Container according to claim 1, characterized in thatthe data processing means (5) comprise at least one microprocessor (15) arranged on an electronic card (31).

8. Container according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the data processing means (5) are configured to compare the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) operated by the first and second temperature sensors (4, 30) at least one upper limit threshold (SLh) and at least one lower limit threshold (SLb) to determine one or more aberrant temperature measurements.

9. Container according to claim 1, characterized in that temperature measurements (T m , Tf) are operated by the first and second temperature sensors (4, 30) at given time intervals, typically at least once per hour.

10. Container according to claim 1, characterized in that temperature measurements (T m , Tf) are operated in the absence of delivery or withdrawal of gas.

11. Container according to claim 8, characterized in that the data processing means (5) are configured to determine that: - a temperature measurement (Tf) carried out by the first temperature sensor (4) is aberrant when said temperature measurement (Tf) is greater than or equal to a first upper limit threshold (SLh1) or less than or equal to a first lower limit threshold (SLb1), - a temperature measurement (T m ) operated by the second temperature sensor (30) is aberrant when said temperature measurement (T m) is greater than or equal to a second upper limit threshold (SLh2) or less than or equal to a second lower limit threshold (SLb2), where: - the first lower limit threshold (SLb1) of the first temperature sensor (4) and / or the second lower limit threshold (SLb2) of the second temperature sensor (30) are less than -20°C, preferably less than -30°C, and / or - the first upper limit threshold (SLh1) of the first temperature sensor (4) and / or the second upper limit threshold (SLh2) of the second temperature sensor (30) are at least 90°C, preferably at least 100°C.

12. Container according to claim 11, characterized in that: - the first lower limit threshold (SLb1) of the first temperature sensor (4) and / or the second lower limit threshold (SLb2) of the second temperature sensor (30) is equal to -40°C, - the first upper limit threshold (SLh1) of the first temperature sensor (4) is equal to 105°C, and / or - the second upper limit threshold (SLh2) of the second temperature sensor (30) is equal to 125°C (i.e. SLb1 < SLb2).

13. Container according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the data processing means (5) are configured to ignore the detected aberrant value(s) and not use them to determine a malfunction of the first sensor (4).

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

15. Method for detecting a malfunction of the first temperature sensor arranged on a fluid container according to one of claims 1 to 13, in which: a) the temperature (Tf) of the fluid in the internal fluid circuit of the valve body is measured by means of the first temperature sensor (4), b) the temperature of the microprocessor (T m ) by means of the second temperature sensor (30) integrated into the microprocessor (15) of the data processing means (5), c) the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) operated by the first and second temperature sensors (4, 30) to detect a malfunction of the first temperature sensor (4) by: i) comparing the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) to each other and ii) determining the existence of a malfunction of the first temperature sensor (4) when the difference between the temperature measurements (T m , Tf) is greater than or equal to a temperature threshold (Stemp ) prefixed by at least 10°C, and d) an audible or visual alert is triggered in response to a detection of malfunction of said first temperature sensor (4) when the detection of malfunction is repeated over a given duration (T) of several tens of minutes and / or for at least 5 temperature measurements (T m , Tf) successive.

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