Releasable connection for an amperometric probe, method for replacing a probe using this connection, and amperometric probe

Abstract

The invention relates to a rod-shaped probe (2) capable of being removed from an amperometric measuring instrument, by using a female member (5) accessible from the underside of a housing of the instrument arranged above a recipient containing a solution to be analysed by amperometry. The male member (2a) of the probe extends downwards as far as a stop edge (2b), opposite a plug which is connected to a socket (RC) housed in the housing thereabove and behind an opening (O1) in the female member. This edge (2b) abuts against a rim (8) formed in a flange (4) which includes the opening (O1) and forms an attachment region receiving a bolt (9) releasably locking the probe in its mounted position via a rotational indexing effect. The probe (2) associated with a protective sleeve is easy to replace since this sleeve is attached in a more central manner than the bolt (9).

Description

Detachable connection of an amperometric probe, method of replacing a probe using this connection and amperometric probe Technical field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the measurement of parameters representative of the quality of a flour or similar product from the agri-food industry and relates to the field of devices having a detection probe adapted to be immersed in a liquid substance, for example to characterize a suspension of a (diluted) sample of material to be characterized.

[0002] More particularly, the subject matter relates to a connection arrangement enabling the mounting, in a measuring device, of an amperometric detection probe, in particular for a probe having a general rod shape. A method of replacing a probe using this connection is also disclosed. A probe specially adapted to cooperate in the measuring device by such a connection also forms an object of the present disclosure. Technological background

[0003] In the field of detecting the properties of a substance (solid) suspended in a liquid solution including a reagent, for example by amperometric measurement of the iodine absorption rate of this substance, devices are known which combine a container containing the solution to be characterized with at least two electrodes to enable the measurement of an electrolysis current between the two electrodes, representative of an iodine concentration. Document FR 2838518 proposes introducing the substance to be characterized after the generation of iodine in the container, by an electrochemical method, using a device including a specific measuring probe and making it possible to measure the current in the solution, including before the generation of iodine.

[0004] In this device from Chopin Technologies, known as SD Matic®, the measuring probe is grouped with other rods (stirrer and heating element) in a common support block. In this type of device, damage to one of the components results in the need to disassemble the block and a number of precautions and steps are required during reassembly to restore the functionality of the assembly, which can sometimes lead to incorrect reassembly. More generally, the disassembly and reassembly operation can be tedious.

[0005] So there is a need to improve the situation. Summary

[0006] For this purpose, an arrangement for connecting a probe (probe having, for example, a general rod shape) is proposed for connecting the probe in a device for measuring by amperometry, the arrangement comprising the probe, a female connecting member provided in a receiving interface, and a male member provided in the probe, knowing that the female member can be part of the underside of a casing capable of being arranged above a container (beaker or similar) containing a solution to be analyzed by amperometry. This arrangement comprises a lower surface of the casing which extends transversely with respect to a direction of elongation of the probe, the receiving interface including / defining said underside of the casing with this lower surface, the female member being accessible by an access in the lower surface to allow insertion, in particular linear insertion of the male member (allowing a degree of rotation if necessary, which can be useful in particular if significant friction is obtained during passage in the female member).The receiving interface is configured to simultaneously connect a plug forming all or part of the male member, in a socket, and allow a predetermined angular placement of a stopper edge, integral in rotation with the plug and provided on a periphery of the probe (for example at a distance from the probe ends), this stopper edge abutting against a rim marking an end of insertion travel of the male member, with the particularity that a lock is provided to lock removably by engagement on a fixing region of a flange forming the underside of the housing, by engaging on (from below) the stopper edge, in order to both lock the axial position of the probe and a predetermined indexing position of the probe relative to the receiving interface.

[0007] The receiving interface includes: - the flange which is provided with an opening forming said access, and - the socket facing the opening while being arranged behind this opening in a direction of insertion (typically upward / vertical when the connection arrangement is located in the measuring device) of the male member into the female member through the opening. It is understood that the plug is capable of being plugged / connected into the socket (preferably with an electrical connection) reversibly by raising the probe parallel to the direction of a longitudinal axis of the receiving interface, depending on the direction of insertion. The socket forms, for example, an electrical connection, allowing, for example, a connection of data or electrical signals with a control unit of the device. The male member may include a section with an external tubular wall extending between the stopper edge and an upper axial end including the plug and having connection terminals in connection with electrodes of the probe (the probe being an amperometric detection probe including said electrodes with a lower part for measuring by amperometry, external to the housing and which extends axially in the direction of elongation opposite the upper axial end).

[0008] The amperometric measuring probe has electrodes, one pair of which allows the production of iodine and another pair of electrodes allows a measurement of iodine concentration. The flange may advantageously include, on the lower surface, and preferably in the same hollowing / stepping zone: - the rim / at least one rim, preferably annular, on which the stopper edge abuts axially, in the mounted state; and - the attachment region in which at least one lock (possibly a one-piece lock) can releasably engage and lock, to both lock / maintain the axial position of the probe and maintain a predetermined position which may be a predetermined indexing position of the probe (angular position) relative to the receiving interface. With a stopper edge, i.e. an edge / rim wider than the upper part of the probe inserted through the opening, any risk of over-insertion is avoided and, by the indexing position obtained at an end plug of the probe and / or at the fixing region, it is possible to position the probe correctly without risk of error. The fixing region can be formed as a depression or cut-out (in the flange) whose bottom has the opening.

[0009] According to a particular feature, the section forming the male member can rub against the edge delimiting the opening, which allows guidance without falling (risk of accidental fall) of the probe during a plugging operation. The edge delimiting the depression / hollowing allows for example a centering when finalizing the axial positioning of the plug in the socket. Then or simultaneously with this centering, the lock blocks a portion of the stopper edge for an anti-withdrawal effect.

[0010] In embodiment options, the lower surface may be an exterior surface of the casing, typically extending substantially horizontally and placed above an area for placing the container / beaker where the measurement is to be carried out, by immersing the probe in the solution contained in the beaker. The flange may be fixed to the rest of the casing by fasteners (screws for example) distributed in a margin region of the lower surface, preferably annular, around the fixing region and around each of the other element(s) capable of being immersed in the solution to be tested: these elements may include a stirrer and / or a heating element.

[0011] In embodiments, one or more of the following features are used: - the male organ is wider than the lower part (remaining external) of the probe formed under the stopper edge. - the lower (thinner) part of the probe may be surrounded by a protective sleeve in phases (storage, transport, assembly / disassembly) other than the step measuring, the sleeve being able to have an upper end capable of being positioned in axial overlap with respect to the stopper edge. - the attachment region is integrated into a depression or hollow corresponding to a drop in the lower surface. - the recess is delimited by a portion of lateral surface with complementary shape with the periphery of the stopper edge.

[0012] With such a fixing region, typically obtained by hollowing (integrated into the thickness of the flange, for example near a stirring element also carried by the fixing interface), a robust fixing is ensured, compatible with removal as soon as the lock is unlocked / removed. The form complementarity can be total or partial. This arrangement can complement an anti-rotation effect obtained at an upper end of the probe. A non-circular geometry of the lateral surface delimiting the hollowing can also be provided.

[0013] According to a particular feature, the at least one lock may be a single lock, preferably made in a single piece separate from the probe. The lock may thus be a screw which is fixed in a border zone, at the margin via an orifice or a slot, in the stopper edge (which may possibly have the shape of a collar). The lock can fix / maintain a position with rotational indexing of the probe, this position (with anti-rotation effect for example) being taken before finalizing the total insertion of the male organ. It is understood that the insertion also allows the plug to be connected to the socket. The plug may have a relief allowing long guidance, for example by having an anti-rotation relief which is radially protruding on one end of the plug, this end being narrower than a main body of the plug so that the relief does not protrude radially outwards relative to a circumference of this main body.

[0014] In an alternative embodiment, the probe can rotate at the end of its installation. Optionally, the locking mechanism is distributed in two members holding a fixing tab formed on / forming part of the stopper edge and which is capable of engaging, by rotation, in a housing of the fixing region. Such a tab with limited angular extension can, in a first step, push back (axially and / or radially) a deformable / elastic return effect member (first member participating in the locking) which is in the access passage to the housing. And immediately in a second step, this deformable member can (at the end of the rotation of the fixing tab) oppose a reverse rotation of the tab by returning to its default position.Such a housing is also delimited by another axial anti-withdrawal edge / stopping member (second member participating in the locking), which is for example parallel to the lower surface: the fixing lug engages behind this second stopping member when it rotates with the rest. of the probe. This type of locking can be reversible, for example by having the possibility of pressing from the outside on the elastic return member. The socket can in this case have a connection system compatible with rotation, for example by having a bayonet connection operating simultaneously, with the same movement.

[0015] Regardless of the precise locking mode provided, it is typically integrated into the fixing region, so as to cover the stopper edge while being offset on one side (one side only) and thus radially spaced and separated from the lower part of the probe and, where appropriate, from the protective sleeve surrounding this lower part. The stopper edge may optionally have or carry a foolproof means, which may possibly extend closer to an agitator of the apparatus, while the lock is further away from such an agitator.

[0016] According to a feature, the stopper edge has a non-circular cutout by delimiting at least one edge portion to define a radial extension of the stopper edge locally narrowed and located in a region adjacent to the agitator. Optionally, a foolproofing means is thus formed (possibly additional and supplementing a foolproofing action carried out at the upper end of the plug. More broadly, it is provided that at least one, among the stopper edge and the plug, has or carries a foolproofing means cooperating with a complementary guide and engagement surface provided in the receiving interface to allow a predetermined angular position of the probe to be obtained after the start of insertion of the male member.

[0017] The polarizing means optionally cooperates with a complementary engagement surface of the female member or socket to enable a predetermined angular position of the probe to be obtained after the start of insertion of the male member and before the completion of connection of the plug into the socket. Typically, a portion of the female member then surrounds the stopper edge.

[0018] According to a feature of the receiving interface, it is part of a measuring head which is movable by pivoting about a horizontal axis provided in the device. The probe can be rigidly fixed to the receiving interface, so that the probe is integral with the measuring head when this measuring head is pivoted.

[0019] In the options for realizing the probe, one or more of the following features can be provided: - an insertion part of the probe (which can form / correspond to the male organ), passing through the opening, has an external section which is preferably circular. - an external shoulder formed on the probe allows the stopper edge to cover an annular region of said rim which is preferably produced in the form of an internal shoulder or rim adjacent to the opening by forming part of the lower surface. - the external section of the male organ is constant over a major part (more than half) of its length, with a characteristic dimension less than a maximum radial extension (external diameter for example) of the stopping edge. - the probe can be centered relative to a periphery of the stopper edge. - the external diameter of the male member can be constant to slide, preferably with friction, in the circular section drilling of the flange, forming all or part of the opening. - the stopper edge may have a semi-circular edge portion having an external diameter at least 3 mm greater than the maximum external diameter of the male organ.

[0020] According to a particular feature, the female member widens due to a hollow / depression (step) of the flange. The external shoulder of the probe can come to bear in the depression / hollow of the flange by filling this hollow with the possible exception of a receiving zone of the lock, for example when it is a screw or similar elongated element to retain the stopper edge in its position inserted in the hollow.

[0021] In options using a stirrer connected to the receiving interface, one or more of the following options can be used: - the excavation is adjacent to an agitator connection area, provided in the flange. - the opening is arranged radially between the agitator passing through a central portion of the flange and an annular radial portion which is preferably in the form of a downwardly projecting peripheral annular projection. - in the probe, the rim and the external shoulder locally have a narrowed radial extension in a region adjacent to the agitator (optionally this can facilitate guidance or possibly participate in a rotational indexing of the stopper edge (for example by association / complementarity of shape with the digging).

[0022] According to a particular feature, the lock and the stopper edge cooperate while the probe is already blocked in rotation or, alternatively, coact to block the probe in rotation, the flange comprising or consisting of a part which has the annular radial portion, optionally perforated and crossed vertically by anchoring elements, so that this annular radial portion allows a fixing to secure this part to a wrapping block including an external side wall of the casing. The annular radial fixing portion may surround the central portion of the flange crossed by the agitator, possibly coaxially.

[0023] In embodiments for protecting the probe, particularly its lower portion, one or more of the following arrangements may be used: - the probe has a slot or annular cavity, allowing attachment of the removable protective sleeve. - the arrangement includes the protective sleeve which has an open end suitable for mount on the probe in an annular attachment area. - the sleeve has fixing means provided in this open end and / or on a peripheral region adjacent to the open end. - the protective sleeve has a closed end opposite the open end and is configured to envelop the lower part of the probe, in a fixing state in which the sleeve is inserted by its open end into the annular slot or cavity. - the sleeve can be removed from the slot or annular cavity by rotation, preferably by unscrewing. - the slot or cavity (e.g. a threaded groove) may allow either insertion by screwing, or possibly direct insertion without screwing, when the edge around the opening at the open end may become deformed or clipped.

[0024] According to a particularity, the removable probe allows: - generate iodine electrochemically, via two generation electrodes, - measure the iodine concentration via two measuring electrodes, - measure the temperature of the solution via a sensor at the end of the probe. The probe tip may extend at the same level as a blade member or similar rotating stirring part of a stirrer which extends parallel to the probe by being connected to the same flange without recourse to the aforementioned lock. During measurement, the solution in the container is stirred, via the mechanical stirrer, and heated, via a heating element (of the immersion resistance type, arranged on another side of the stirrer.

[0025] The apparatus is intended to carry out measurements, by the probe, in the same container into which a product sample such as flour can be introduced, once the iodine or similar substance participating in an amperometric measurement is generated and dosed. In a preferred application, the product sample contains starch and it is the damaged starch of this product (flour for example) which absorbs the iodine; by measuring the quantity of iodine remaining, the percentage of damaged starch in the product sample is deduced.

[0026] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of installing a replacement probe using a connection arrangement, for example as defined in any one of the preceding claims, implemented in an apparatus capable of having said probe which is an amperometric measuring probe, in the general shape of an elongated rod in a direction of elongation and having a stopper edge provided between a lower amperometric measuring part and an upper male member of the probe inserted into a female member of a receiving interface formed in a casing of the apparatus, the female member opening out from below the casing which is capable of being arranged above a container containing a solution to be analyzed by amperometry, the method comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - after having optionally covered, by a sleeve, a lower part of a probe previously installed in the device which is to be removed and whose structure is identical to the replacement probe, disengaging a lock, preferably by a rotational driving action, to remove it from below a fixing region formed on a bottom of the interface in a flange including the female member; - extract the previously installed probe from the casing, by pulling downwards using an opening in the female member; - insert the replacement probe, provided with a protective sleeve removably mounted around the lower part, this insertion being carried out so as to engage the male member in the female member from below the casing, until it covers, by the stopper edge, an annular rim adjacent to the opening, present in the flange, the stopper edge which is integral in rotation with an electrical connection plug provided at an upper end of the probe then abutting axially under the rim while being angularly oriented in a predetermined indexing position of the probe relative to the receiving interface, for complete insertion of the probe; and - by reusing the lock, blocking and locking the full insertion position by engaging the lock in the fixing region by sandwiching the stopper edge between the rim and an anti-removal part provided in the lock.

[0027] Probe replacement is easy, with the possibility of using a protective sleeve that attaches more centrally than the lock, without the lock interfering with the connection / disconnection of the sleeve. This lock thus selectively locks a fixed position of the probe, without blocking or hindering the removal of other functional components that attach to the underside of the flange.

[0028] According to another aspect, there is provided an amperometric measuring probe, specially adapted to cooperate in an apparatus for measuring the iodine absorption rate of a substance, by connecting by use of the connection arrangement as defined above, the probe having a general rod shape and extending between a first, lower end, provided with a temperature measuring thermistor and a second, upper end, provided with an electrical connection plug and having connection terminals in connection with electrodes of the probe, the probe having a stopper edge forming a collar in an intermediate zone between the two ends, above a pair of iodine production electrodes and a pair of iodine concentration measuring electrodes, knowing that at least one of the plug and the stopper edge has: - a non-circular perimeter with angular indexing effect, thus forming a foolproof means capable of being inserted by complementary shape into a female part provided in a casing of a measuring head; - an annular extension around an annular slot or cavity, the slot or cavity opening axially towards the first end, to allow rotational attachment of a protective sleeve intended to surround the lower part which extends from the stopper edge to the first end; and - a locking hole or notch capable of aligning with a fixing orifice provided in a margin zone of the excavation, said hole or notch being offset radially outwards relative to the annular slot or cavity, in order to allow the upward passage of a removable lock retained in the fixing orifice and abutting from below against the stopper edge, even in the presence of the protective sleeve.

[0029] In embodiments, at least one of the following features may be employed: - the probe has a glass body in the lower part. - the tubular wall delimiting the male organ (defining an external diameter of this organ) and the stopper edge are free of glass, for example by being made of rigid plastic / polymer, a composite material or based on a metallic material. - the slot or cavity for fixing a protective sleeve is made of a metallic or plastic material, preferably surrounding a top / upper part of the glass body of the probe. It may be provided, for at least one of the plug and the stopper edge: the non-circular perimeter with angular indexing effect; or at least for the stopper edge, a perimeter of the stopper edge chosen to center the position and possibly limit the possibilities of twisting when approaching a final position of insertion of the male member formed by the probe to be inserted into the female part provided in said casing. Brief description of the drawings

[0030] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analyzing the attached drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a connection arrangement, before mounting the amperometric measuring probe. Figure 2 shows in perspective a device having a movable measuring head allowing the measuring probe to be arranged vertically opposite a receiving area of ​​a container, Figure 3 shows, in perspective, an assembled configuration of the connection arrangement of Figure 1, with the measuring probe locked in position. Figure 4 is a bottom view illustrating the mounted position of various components, including the measuring probe, on the same flange secured to a device of the type illustrated in Figure 2. Figure 5 is a longitudinal sectional view, illustrating the final insertion position of the measuring probe, in the arrangement of Figure 3. Figure 6 shows an exemplary embodiment of the outer / lower part of a probe usable in an arrangement according to the invention. Figure 7 shows a detail of one end of the measuring probe before its attachment. Description of the embodiments

[0031] Several examples of non-limiting embodiments are set out below in detail. In the various figures, identical references indicate identical or similar elements.

[0032] With reference to Figures 1 to 6, a measuring part of an apparatus 15 intended for carrying out qualitative analyses can be seen, the measurement being made possible by immersing a probe 2 in a solution containing the substance to be analyzed. Such an apparatus 15 may comprise two parts, respectively a fixed part provided with a base S and a movable part forming here a measuring head T pivotally mounted on the fixed part and being able to rotate around an axis A. The arrow R in Figure 2 corresponds to the direction of lifting (with tilting backwards) by a rotation which may not exceed a quarter turn, in order to make accessible a fixing zone of the measuring probe 2 and to allow removal (with the necessary clearance) of this probe 2 mounted in a removable manner. Of course, another type of movement (lateral pivoting of the head T, mounted with a recoil effect) can be provided in design variants.

[0033] The apparatus 15 has a flange 4 that can be associated with a side wall 3 to delimit the exterior of a casing 3 of the measuring head T. The flange 4 forms / includes a lower surface S3 of this casing 3 and allows the probe 2 to be fixed. For this purpose, the flange 4 includes an opening 01 forming access to a hollow interior space H3 located in the casing 3. The apparatus has a receiving interface 10, including the flange 4, to allow the probe 2 to be mounted. A glass body of the probe 2 can be provided at least in a lower part 2c.

[0034] Such an interface 10 comprises an RC socket facing the opening 01 while being arranged behind this opening 01 in a direction of insertion of the probe 2. It may be possible to house (in part) the probe 2 in the hollow interior space H3 while connecting to the RC socket terminals b1, b2 of the probe 2 connected to a low region where the sensitive / detection part of the probe 2 is formed. The measuring head T may include a spacer structure 31 for offsetting the female RC socket or similar connector, in a position axially distant from the flange 4 and the opening 01. Rigid rods 31a, parallel to the axis X10, may thus be distributed on the periphery of this interior space H3, to rigidly maintain the distal arrangement of the RC socket.

[0035] The probe 2, the receiving interface 10 with a movable latch 9, together form a connection arrangement 1 allowing a robust / rigid fixing of the probe 2 while facilitating selective assembly and disassembly of this probe 2 by making a male member 2a provided on the probe 2 and a female member 5 cooperate, after having inserted the male member 2a through the opening 01 until obtaining: - the connection of the probe 2 to the RC socket, by using a plug 6 forming all or part of the male member 2a; and - an axial stop contact of the probe 2 against a rim 8 formed in a border region of the opening 01.

[0036] The female member 5, accessible from below the casing 3, can, at least in part, be integrated into the flange 4 which possibly has a recess Dr, visible in figures 1, 4 and 5 in particular, to facilitate the installation of a stopper edge 2b provided as a radially projecting part of the probe 2 and capable of coming to bear on the rim 8 when the plug 6 connects to the RC connector. It is understood that the connection arrangement 1 is intended to be part of the measuring head T, so that it can follow the movement of the latter.

[0037] In the apparatus 15, the base S is for example configured to receive a container 3 under the flange 4, optionally by having a cavity or a recess located directly above a central axis X10 of the receiving interface 10. The measuring head T comprises in particular, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, several elements capable of plunging into the container 30, namely: a stirrer 11, a heating element 12 which may include a heating resistor, and the measuring probe 2 capable of carrying out conductivity measurements. The stirrer 11 may have a rod section which extends along the central axis X10, so that the probe 2 is offset radially (on one side towards the outside) relative to the stirrer 11. In some options, the measuring head T may also include a guide equipped with a vibrator intended to receive a utensil for loading the substance (possibly in the form of a small shovel). In such a case and / or in other designs, the measuring head T is hollow, making it possible to delimit by its wall P3 the hollow interior space H3 which is an empty area delimited above the flange 4 used for fixing at least the probe 2. Structure of the measuring probe

[0038] The probe 2 has a general rod shape, as clearly visible for example in the case of figure 1, extending along a central axis defining a direction X of elongation. The male member 2a may include a lateral surface elongated along this direction, with for example a circular section optionally adapted to rub against an internal guide counter-surface of the flange 4, corresponding to an orifice of a determined diameter and corresponding to the opening 01 which communicates the space H3 and the reception area for the container 30 (area delimited under the casing in the operational state of the device 15).

[0039] With reference to figures 3 and 6, this measuring probe 2 can extend between a first axial end E1, free, and a second axial end E2 reaching the socket RC in the connected state of the probe 2. The male member 2a has a section, without protruding asperity interfering with a sliding of this member 2a through the opening 01, which extends between the stopper edge 2b and the upper axial end E2. In figure 1, the non-limiting case of an external tubular wall, typically cylindrical, which can thin at the plug 6 has been illustrated. The stopper edge 2b joins this wall by defining an external shoulder EE of the probe 2 which allows the stopper edge 2b to cover an annular region of the rim 8, as illustrated for example by figure 3. The rim 8 defines an internal shoulder or rim adjacent to the opening 01. This edge 8 thus has a face perpendicular to the axis X10 and to the axis X, belonging to the lower surface S3.A recess allows this edge 8 to be reached by the stopper edge 2b only when the latter is guided by a lateral surface delimiting a hollow (bore) in the flange 4, with the opening 01 selectively accessible via this hollow. A rotational guidance and indexing effect can be obtained, beforehand, by the cooperation of a relief 2d (visible in figure 7), possibly elongated, provided on the plug 6 on the side of the upper end of the probe 2, with a female format of corresponding (complementary) shape provided in the socket RC. Thus, an anti-rotation effect is obtained before the insertion phase of the stopper edge 2b in the excavation resulting from the step Dr (or at the latest from this phase). Alternatively or in addition, contact can be provided between the periphery of the stopper edge 2b and the lateral surface delimiting the excavation / step Dr.

[0040] In the illustrated examples, a shape complementarity, total or partial, is provided between the periphery of the stop edge 2 and the circumference of the lateral delimiting surface. A guiding effect, possibly for an anti-rotation function in certain options, is obtained here due to a non-circular geometry of the lateral surface. More generally, the probe 2 may have a structure with a specifically enlarged section to form the stop edge 2 with a perimeter chosen to center the position and possibly limit the possibilities of twisting when approaching the final insertion position of the male member 2a. This perimeter is preferably chosen to be non-circular with a portion of edge BD which can allow an angular indexing effect if an indexing is not already obtained by starting to insert the plug 6 into the socket RC.Optionally, this edge portion BD extends in a chord (following a straight cut / delineation), seen from below, relative to a partially circular circumferential wall of the stopper edge 2b. More generally, at least one of the grip 6 and the stopper edge 2 may form a foolproof means capable of being inserted, typically by complementarity of shape. in a corresponding recess provided in the interface 10 and which can be inserted by passing over the underside of the flange 4.

[0041] In an intermediate zone of the probe 2, where the stopper edge 2b is located, an annular slot or cavity 20 may also be formed, opening axially towards the first end E1, in order to allow rotational fixing of a protective sleeve 18, optionally of the single / simple opening type. With reference to FIG. 5 for example, the annular cavity 20 has first securing means capable of cooperating with complementary securing means 28 carried by the sleeve 18 at its open end 18a. When the sleeve 18 is fixed by joining the intermediate zone, for example following a relative rotational movement with respect to the first securing means, the outer / lower part 2c of the probe 2 may be entirely surrounded (and protected) by the lateral face of the sleeve 18. The end E1 may also be protected by a termination of the sleeve 18, forming a closed end 18b.

[0042] In embodiments, the annular cavity 20 is threaded, forming a rigid receiving / fixing groove for the sleeve 18. The annular cavity 20 can open axially at the same level as an annular face of the stopper edge 2b facing the end E1. Independently or in addition to the presence of such securing means for holding a sleeve 18 around the lower part 2c, the stopper edge 2b can be held in position by using a lock 9 of the fixing arrangement 1, possibly having a locking hole or notch N.

[0043] The probe 2 can, in cooperation with the rest of the apparatus, allow a measurement of the iodine absorption rate of a substance, with configuration possibilities via a touch screen 40 or similar human-machine interface of the apparatus 15 having display means. The lower end E1 of the probe 2 can have a temperature measuring thermistor 23, as visible in FIG. 6. Also in the lower position in the lower part 2c, the probe is provided with a pair of electrodes 21a, 21b for producing iodine and a pair of electrodes 22a, 22b for measuring iodine concentration. In the embodiment shown, the pairs of electrodes 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b are in the form of pairs of rings. These electrodes 21 a, 21 b, 22a, 22b can be protected by a sleeve 18, at least during handling of the measuring head T, in particular when mounting or dismounting the measuring probe 2. Examples to finalize the probe assembly

[0044] The flange 4 can surround the probe 2 two successive zones for receiving the flange 4: one formed by the internal surface delimiting the opening 01, the other formed by the lateral surface delimiting the recess Dr, knowing that the rim 8, with extension radial, can form an internal shoulder to make the connection between these two surfaces.

[0045] In the non-limiting example of figures 1 and 3 to 5, the lock 9 is a part which can be anchored directly on the flange 4 while bearing on the stopper edge 2b then already axially engaged against the rim 8. The lock 9 can for example be fixed, possibly by screwing, in the hollow or a similar zone on the periphery of the opening 01. For this, the flange 4 can have a fixing orifice 02 opening through the lower surface S3. The locking hole or notch N provided on the stopper edge 2b will be aligned with a fixing orifice 02 by using a particularity of the contour of the stopper edge or by resorting to a suitable foolproofing means.In practice, the alignment can be obtained using a guiding and / or rotational indexing effect, by direct contact of a guide on the circumference of the stopper edge 2b (for example via the delimiting surface of the step Dr or a similar imprint allowing a complementarity of shape). Once the stopper edge 2b is fitted / engaged to rest on the rim 8, the probe 2 has a well-defined angular position, which can coincide with the appropriate position for inserting the plug 6 into the RC socket.

[0046] In variants (not shown), the stopper edge 2b can also form a bayonet connection member, which is for example: - capable of moving by a leading edge a deformable member forming the lock and capable of returning to a default position to block this member on the side of another edge distinct from the leading edge (the deformable member typically remaining accessible to allow unlocking, - or adapted to be fixed tightly, possibly with a cam effect, in a groove delimited by a retaining member. This also allows the bayonet assembly to be finalized.

[0047] Regardless of the mode of intervention of the lock 9, in the form of one or more parts, an RF fixing region is provided in which the lock 9 can engage and lock removably, in order to lock both the axial position of the probe 2 with the stopper edge 2b engaged on the rim 8 and an angular position obtained by predetermined indexing. It is understood that the probe 2 has a typically unique angular position (except possibly in the case of symmetry, with two twin positions) relative to the reception interface 10. In options, a maximum of the radial extension of the stopper edge 2b, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, may be greater than or equal to 2 or 3 mm.

[0048] The flange 4 may include an annular radial portion MZ which is preferably in the form of a peripheral annular projection projecting downwardly relative to the remainder of the underside of the flange 4. As seen in Figure 1 or 4, the opening 01 may be arranged radially between the agitator 11 passing through a central portion of the flange 4 and the portion MZ. The rim 8 and the external shoulder EE may locally have a narrowed radial extension in a region adjacent to the agitator 11.

[0049] The lock 9 and the stopper edge 2b coact to block in translation (within the casing 3) the probe 2 relative to the RC socket, without creating any obstruction on the underside of the flange 4. In options, the flange 4 is a part which has the annular radial portion MZ, perforated with openings 04 clearly visible in the example of figure 1 and crossed vertically by anchoring elements MF such as screws (preferably more elongated than the length or equivalent longitudinal dimension of the lock 9), so that the annular radial portion MZ allows a fixing to secure this part to a wrapping block including the external side wall P3 of the casing 3.

[0050] With reference to figures 4 and 5, the lock 9 may be a screw or anchoring element with bottom insertion, retained axially in the orifice O2 while being offset radially outwards relative to the slot or annular cavity 20 when it is present, in order to allow the upward passage of the lock 9 towards its fixing position even in the presence of a protective sleeve 18. Whether the structure of the lock 9 corresponds to a screw with a head for retaining the stopper edge 2 or corresponds to another anchoring element, it is understood that this lock 9 can be put in place in a simple manner, with access facilitated by rotation around the axis A or equivalent movement of the measuring head T, to finalize the mounting of the measuring probe 2, while allowing selective disassembly of this probe 2, that is to say without disassembly operation of the flange 4 or modification of the position of any of the other elements 11, 12 supported by the flange 4. Example of disconnection

[0051] When the lock 9 is a screw or a similar rotating anchoring element (for example requiring only a quarter turn to be released into a freely sliding position), the underside of the measuring head T can be made accessible, for example by rotation along the arrow A relative to the fixed part with base S. Unscrewing or similar rotational actuation can be carried out, typically using a tool capable of cooperating with the nut or screw head (screwdriver for example), to disengage the lock 9. Then the probe 2, protected by the sleeve 18 which is engaged at the periphery of the top of the lower part 2c, can be removed by tightening the sleeve 18 which is engaged in the cavity 20.

[0052] When replacing the measuring probe 2, by a user, an arm associated with the measuring head T can be raised (by pivoting in the illustrated case), with typically a tilting of the measuring head in its entirety, so that it is then sufficient: - screw the probe protection (sleeve 18 here) onto the probe, - to unscrew the screw, similar nut or any type of lock release 9 which allows the probe 2 to be held, - pull on the probe protection such as the sleeve 18 to extract the probe 2 from the interface 10. The new probe can be installed in the same way, in reverse order. Typically, the user / operator only has to enter a temperature correction, for example labeled on the new probe, in a dedicated menu accessible via the screen 40 or other interface with a similar graphic area, allowing entry.

[0053] In the absence of the lock 9 or more generally for any removed / set-back position of the lock, the probe 2 can be pulled linearly (downwards) without rotation, at least at the start of the disengagement movement of the male member 2a relative to the female member 5. It can then be replaced by an identical probe. When the sleeve 18 must be removed before use of the apparatus 15, it is preferable for the lock 9 to be in its effective locking configuration. The removal of the sleeve 18 can start by unscrewing and then simply pulling, as seen in FIG. 5 for example. The sleeve 18, at least when it is made of compressible plastic material, can optionally be thicker or can widen to form a lower gripping part which opposes crushing, this in order to protect the lower part 2c.

[0054] The elements 2, 11, 12 mentioned above are grouped and positioned, on the underside of the flange 4 in the same central zone of the surface S3 surrounded by the annular portion MZ, so as to be able to come and plunge into the container 30 which can be comparatively narrower than the flange 4.

[0055] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, only as an example, but it encompasses all the variants that a person skilled in the art may envisage within the framework of the protection sought. For example, although the drawings illustrate the case of a lower surface S3 having a substantially horizontal extension in the measuring configuration of the apparatus 15, other geometries are suitable.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Connection arrangement (1) of a probe (2) having a general rod shape for connecting the probe in an apparatus (15) for measuring by amperometry, the arrangement (1) comprising the probe (2), a female member (5), and a male member (2a) provided in the probe (2), the female member (5) forming part of the underside of a casing (3) capable of being arranged above a container (30) containing a solution to be analyzed by amperometry, the arrangement (1) comprising a receiving interface (10) including said underside and defining a lower surface (S3) of the casing (3) which extends transversely with respect to a direction (X) of elongation of the probe (2) in a mounted state of the latter, the female member (5) being accessible by an access in the lower surface (S3) to allow a linear insertion of the male member (2a), characterized in that the receiving interface (10) comprises a flange (4), provided with an opening (01) forming said access,and a socket (RC) facing the opening (01) while being arranged behind the opening (01) in a direction of insertion of the male member (2a) into the female member (5) through the opening (01), in which a plug (6) forming all or part of the male member (2a) is capable of being plugged into the socket (RC) reversibly by raising the probe (2) parallel to the direction of a longitudinal axis (X10) of the receiving interface (10), in said direction of insertion, the male member (2a) having a section with an external tubular wall extending between a stopper edge (2b) and an upper axial end (E2) including the plug (6) and having connection terminals (b1, b2) in connection with electrodes (21a, 21b, 22a, 22b) of the probe, the stopper edge (2b) being rotationally fixed to the plug (6), the probe (2) being an amperometric detection probe including said electrodes with a lower part (2c) for measurement by amperometry,external to the casing (3) and which extends axially in the direction (X) of elongation opposite the upper axial end (E2), and in that the flange (4) includes, on the lower surface (S3):, - at least one rim (8), preferably annular, on which the stopper edge (2b) abuts axially to define a final axial position of the probe (2), in the mounted state; and - a fixing region (RF) in which at least one lock (9) can engage and removably lock, to both lock the axial position of the probe (2) and a predetermined indexing position of the probe (2) relative to the receiving interface (10).

2. Arrangement according to claim 1, in which the fixing region (RF) is integrated into a depression or hollow corresponding to a step (Dr) in the lower surface (S3), the recess being delimited by a portion of lateral surface with complementary shape with the periphery of the stopper edge (2b).

3. Arrangement according to claim 1, in which at least one of the stopper edge (2b) and the plug (6) has or carries a foolproofing means cooperating with a complementary guide and engagement surface provided in the receiving interface (10) to enable a predetermined angular position of the probe (2) to be obtained after the start of the insertion of the male member (2a) and before the end of the connection of the plug (6) in the socket (RC).

4. Arrangement according to claim 1, 2 or 3, in which the receiving interface (10) is part of a measuring head (T) movable by pivoting around a horizontal axis (A) provided in the apparatus (15), the probe (2) being rigidly fixed to the receiving interface (10) so that the probe (2) is integral with the measuring head (T) during pivoting.

5. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, in which an insertion part of the probe (2), passing through the opening (01) and which can correspond to the male member (2a), has an external section which is preferably circular, an external shoulder (EE) formed on the probe (2) allowing the stopper edge (2b) to cover an annular region of said rim (8) which is preferably produced in the form of an internal shoulder or rim adjacent to the opening (01) by forming a part of the lower surface (S3).

6. Arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the opening (01) is arranged radially between an agitator (11) passing through a central portion of the flange (4) and an annular radial portion (MZ) which is preferably in the form of a downwardly projecting peripheral annular projection, and wherein the stopper edge (2b) has a non-circular cutout delimiting at least one edge portion (BD) to define a radial extension of the stopper edge (2b) locally narrowed and located in a region adjacent to the agitator (11).

7. Arrangement according to claim 6, in which the lock (9) and the stopper edge (2b) coact to prevent the probe (2) from rotating, the flange (4) comprising or consisting of a part which has the annular radial portion (MZ), perforated and crossed vertically by anchoring elements (MF), so that the annular radial portion (MZ) allows a fixing to secure this part to a wrapping block including an external side wall (P3) of the casing (3), the annular radial fixing portion (MZ) surrounding the central portion of the flange (4) crossed by the agitator (11).

8. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the probe (2) has an annular slot or cavity (20), allowing attachment of a removable protective sleeve (18), the arrangement (1) including said protective sleeve (18) which: - has an open end (18a) and fixing means (28) provided in this open end and / or on a peripheral region adjacent to the open end; - has a closed end (18b) opposite the open end (18a) being configured to envelop the lower part (2c) of the probe (2), in a fixing state in which the sleeve (18) is inserted by its open end (18a) into the annular slot or cavity (20); and - can be removed from the annular slot or cavity (20) by rotation, preferably by unscrewing.

9. Method for installing a replacement probe (2) using a connection arrangement (1), for example such as that defined in any one of the preceding claims, implemented in an apparatus (15) capable of having said probe which is an amperometric measurement probe (2), in the general shape of an elongated rod along a direction (X) of elongation and having a stopper edge (2b) provided between a lower amperometric measurement part (2c) and an upper male member (2a) of the probe inserted into a female member (5) of a receiving interface (10) formed in a casing (3) of the apparatus, the female member (5) opening out from below the casing (3) which is capable of being arranged above a container (30) containing a solution to be analyzed by amperometry, the method comprising the steps consisting essentially of: - after having optionally covered, by a sleeve, a lower part of a probe previously installed in the device which is to be removed and whose structure is identical to the replacement probe, disengaging a lock (9), by a rotational driving action, to remove it from below a fixing region (RF) formed on a bottom of the interface (10) in a flange (4) including the female member (5); - extract the previously installed probe from the casing (3), by pulling downwards using an opening (01) of the female member (5); - inserting the replacement probe (2), provided with a protective sleeve (18) removably mounted around the lower part (2c), said insertion being carried out so as to engage the male member in the female member (5) from below the casing (3), until it covers, by the stopper edge (2b), an annular rim (8) adjacent to the opening (01), present in the flange (4), the stopper edge (2b) which is integral in rotation with an electrical connection plug provided at an upper end (E2) of the probe then abutting axially under the rim (8) while being angularly oriented in a predetermined indexing position of the probe (2) relative to the receiving interface (10), for complete insertion of the probe (2); and - by reusing the lock (9), block and lock the complete insertion position by engaging the lock (9) in the fixing region (RF) by sandwiching the edge 19 stopper between the rim (8) and an anti-removal part of the lock (9).

10. Amperometric measuring probe, specially adapted to cooperate in an apparatus for measuring the iodine absorption rate of a substance, by connecting via the connection arrangement as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8, the probe (2) having a general rod shape and extending between a first end (E1), lower, provided with a temperature measuring thermistor (23) and a second end (E2), upper, provided with an electrical connection plug (6) and having connection terminals (b1, b2) in connection with electrodes of the probe, the probe (2) having a stopper edge (2b) forming a collar in an intermediate zone between the two ends (E1, E2), above a pair of iodine production electrodes (21a, 21b) and a pair of concentration measuring electrodes (22a, 22b) of iodine, in which at least one of the plug (6) and the stopper edge (2b) has: - a non-circular perimeter with angular indexing effect, thus forming a foolproof means capable of being inserted by complementary shape into a female part provided in a casing (3) of a measuring head (T); - an annular extension around an annular slot or cavity (20), the slot or cavity opening axially towards the first end (E1), to allow rotational fixing of a protective sleeve intended to surround the lower part (2c) which extends from the stopper edge (2b) to the first end (E1); and. - a locking hole or notch (N) capable of aligning with a fixing orifice (02) provided in a margin zone of the excavation, said hole or notch (N) being offset radially outwards relative to the annular slot or cavity (20), in order to allow the upward passage of a removable lock (9) retained in the fixing orifice (02) and abutting from below against the stopper edge (2b), even in the presence of the protective sleeve (18). 20

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