Respiratory system, particularly for an aircraft

Abstract

A breathing system, particularly for an aircraft, comprising: a remote regulator (1), including: a chamber (102), a gas mixture inlet (100) opening into the chamber (102) via an inlet valve (101), and a gas mixture outlet (103) opening into the chamber (102), and a means (104) for regulating the pressure in the chamber (102); a breathing mask (3) comprising a pressure sensor (304) adapted to measure pressure in an internal space (305), a line (2) connecting the gas mixture outlet (103) to the mask (3), an inlet valve (303) adapted to deliver a diluent gas into the internal space (305), and a control system (4) connected to the pressure sensor (304) and the regulating means (104) and configured to control the inlet valve (101) and / or the gas inlet valve thinner (303). Figure to be published with the abbreviation: figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Respiratory system, particularly for an aircraft Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to the regulation of a proportion of oxygen delivered by a breathing system to the occupants of an aircraft. More specifically, the invention relates to an aircraft breathing system with a remote regulator. Prior art

[0002] The distribution of a gaseous mixture containing oxygen to the occupants of an aircraft through a mask connected to a source of breathable gas. Such a source of breathable gas may deliver a gaseous mixture comprising oxygen or air highly enriched in oxygen, stored in one or more cylinders, or pressurized oxygen reservoirs, located on board the aircraft.

[0003] The oxygen supply can be replaced by an onboard oxygen generation system, such as one or more onboard oxygen generation systems (also referred to by the acronym OBOGS for "OnBoard Oxygen Generation System") supplied with air from the compressor of one or more of the engines.

[0004] The on-board oxygen generating system may also include a molecular sieve oxygen generating system (also referred to by the acronym MSOGS for "Molecular Sieve Oxygen Generating Systems" in English) arranged to provide oxygen-enriched air of a desired oxygen concentration value by adsorbing nitrogen from the air fed into the system.

[0005] Such a distribution aims to ensure the protection of occupants against hypoxia, for example in the event of depressurization of the aircraft cabin, against the presence of smoke and / or vapors in the aircraft cabin, in particular in the event of an accident, or against the effects of acceleration, in the case of military aircraft.

[0006] The gas mixture may also include a diluent gas, for example ambient air or air from a compressed air source.

[0007] The gas mixture is distributed by a breathing system through a pipe connected to the mask placed on the face of a user, in particular by means of an elastic or mechanical harness.

[0008] The breathing system includes a device for regulating the proportion of oxygen delivered in the gas mixture and a system for controlling the pressure in the pipe connected to the mask and in the mask.

[0009] The regulator can be located on the mask, as described in US patent 9,227 091. Such a regulator worn on the mask places a significant load on the front of the wearer's face, adding to the weight of the driving. This creates unpleasant discomfort with prolonged use.

[0010] Alternatively, the regulator can be located at the other end of the pipe, at the air and oxygen inlets, as described in document EP 0 263 677. However, the pipe diameter must then be increased to provide an adequate flow rate. This further creates a forward load on the mask wearer's head and a shift in the center of gravity, making wearing the mask uncomfortable for extended periods.

[0011] Furthermore, such a remote regulator requires taking into account a pressure drop in the line upstream of the mask in order to avoid compromising breathing comfort. A solution to this problem is provided in US patent 3,249,107, by adding a second line. However, such a modification results in a significant increase in off-center mass and increases the rigidity of the system, which negatively impacts user comfort.

[0012] Another solution, proposed in document EP 0 500 407, consists of compensating for the pressure drop pneumatically by modifying the injection pressure of the gas mixture in the pipe and assuming that the pressure drop evolves quadratically. However, such compensation cannot perfectly offset the pressure drop, since it does not exactly correspond to the quadratic model. This prevents the use of a small-diameter pipe, for which the quadratic model is poorly suited. The result is pressure oscillations in the pipe, which are unpleasant for the user. This phenomenon is amplified for a small-diameter pipe.

[0013] In addition, remote regulators use an inhalation valve mounted between the mask and the tubing to prevent backflow into the tubing during exhalation. Such a valve generates an additional pressure drop, further reducing breathing comfort.

[0014] Furthermore, the regulators used on military or commercial aircraft are designed to operate in several different modes, the number of which may differ between military or commercial aircraft, selected manually by means of a lever or rotary knob and governed by purely mechanical components such as valves.

[0015] These modes include in particular the distribution of a mixture of oxygen and diluent gas, to preserve oxygen reserves, the distribution of pure oxygen, the distribution of pure oxygen at overpressure relative to the pressure in the passenger compartment, to protect the user against gaseous pollutants for example and / or the distribution of pure oxygen at a continuous flow, to compensate for any failure of the regulator.

[0016] Another desirable mode relates to the preventive wearing of the mask, in which only ambient air circulates within the mask. This preventive mode allows for a faster transition to one of the other modes if needed.

[0017] It is also known that current regulators allow the proportion of oxygen in the gas mixture to be varied by means of a venturi. The injection of oxygen draws ambient air, by the Venturi effect, through a channel connected to the outside by means of an injector supplied with pressurized oxygen. This channel includes an altimeter capsule that progressively closes the channel as the altitude increases, thus reducing the proportion of air drawn in and increasing the proportion of oxygen.

[0018] With a venturi drive system, the greater the pressure drop between the regulator and the mask, the more pressurized oxygen needs to be injected to drive the air to the mask.

[0019] These systems therefore exhibit a minimum enrichment rate that depends in particular on the pipe diameter. This is incompatible with use at low or zero enrichment rates in cases of preventive wear. Presentation of the invention

[0020] The invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a respiratory system, particularly for an aircraft, that allows a gaseous mixture to be distributed through a mask while offering adequate respiratory comfort and satisfactory wear for a long period.

[0021] To this end, the invention relates to a respiratory system, in particular for an aircraft comprising:

[0022] - a remote regulator, comprising:

[0023] • a room, • at least one gas mixture inlet connected to a breathable gas source, opening into the chamber via a gas mixture inlet valve, • a gas mixture outlet opening into the chamber, and • at least one means of regulating pressure in the chamber,

[0024] - a breathing mask intended to be placed on the face of a user and defining an internal space, comprising a pressure sensor adapted to measure pressure in the internal space, - at least one fluid-connecting line from the regulator's gas mixture outlet to the mask, - at least one diluent gas inlet valve, suitable for delivering diluent gas into the internal space and / or into the chamber, and - at least one control system connected to the pressure sensor and to means of regulation and configured to control the gas mixture inlet valve and / or the diluent gas inlet valve.

[0025] Such a breathing system allows the four operating modes described above to be implemented in a fully automated manner. Furthermore, this breathing system prevents pressure oscillations in the duct and reduces the duct diameter to improve comfort during prolonged mask wear.

[0026] Such a remote regulator is, for example, mounted on a fixed structure of the aircraft such as on a seat, on a dashboard, or in a storage box.

[0027] The breathable gas is, for example, oxygen from a pressurized cylinder and / or a demand-responsive generation device. The diluent gas is, for example, ambient air.

[0028] The diluent gas inlet valve can be located on the mask and open directly into the internal space.

[0029] The control means may include at least one pressure sensor suitable for measuring pressure in the chamber and connected to the control system.

[0030] Such a sensor allows a direct measurement of the pressure in the chamber and thus effective regulation by the control system.

[0031] The control means may include at least one flow sensor adapted to measure a gas flow through the inlet and / or through the outlet of the regulator, each flow sensor being connected to the control system.

[0032] Such a sensor makes it possible to directly measure the gas flow rates delivered.

[0033] The flow sensors can be arranged to measure the inlet flow rate of breathable gas, the inlet flow rate of diluent gas and / or the flow rate of gas mixture delivered into the pipe or into the internal space of the mask.

[0034] The control means may include at least one mechanical element arranged to undergo a force exerted by the pressure in the chamber and to transmit a mechanical control return force to the gas mixture inlet valve.

[0035] Such a sensor makes it possible to implement passive mechanical regulation, without requiring an electronic system, which can be combined with electronic regulation to complement it in the event of an incident, for example.

[0036] By way of example, the mechanical element may include an elastic membrane, or a compression spring.

[0037] The tube can open into the internal space of the mask through an inhalation valve. Such a configuration prevents backflow of exhaled gas into the tube.

[0038] The mask may include an exhalation valve, in particular regulated by internal pressure in the tubing. Arranged in this way, it is possible to ensure the maintenance of a overpressure in the internal space of the mask.

[0039] The conduit may have an internal cross-sectional area less than or equal to 150 mm2, in particular less than or equal to 115 mm2, in particular less than or equal to 80 mm2, more specifically less than or equal to 80 mm2.

[0040] Such dimensions allow a reduction in the weight of the driving, eccentric in relation to the user's face, and thus improve the comfort of wearing the mask for a long time.

[0041] The diluent gas inlet valve can open into the regulator chamber and be connected to a source of breathable gas, in particular a second source of breathable gas, in particular a source of compressed air.

[0042] Such a feature makes it possible to implement the dilution of the breathable gas at the regulator level.

[0043] The regulator may include a damping device, in particular a secondary chamber, in fluidic communication with the chamber, in particular by a restriction, adapted to filter pressure oscillations in the chamber.

[0044] The damping device includes, for example, a secondary chamber connected to the chamber by at least one restriction. The volume of the secondary chamber and the diameter of the restriction are chosen to filter pressure oscillations related to the pneumatic circuit.

[0045] The chamber and the secondary chamber are mounted in parallel fluidly.

[0046] Alternatively, the damping device may include a separator with at least one restriction, dividing the chamber into two successive chambers connected in series fluidly. A number of chambers greater than two may be considered, connected in parallel and / or in series fluidly.

[0047] Alternatively, the damping device may include a laminar outlet orifice and a membrane disposed in the chamber.

[0048] Alternatively, the damping device may include a membrane expansion vessel.

[0049] The regulator may include a pressure sensor and / or a pressure regulator disposed upstream of the gas mixture inlet valve and configured respectively to measure and / or regulate a pressure of the breathable gas mixture from the source.

[0050] This feature makes it possible to overcome pressure variations in the source of breathable gas.

[0051] The pressure sensor and / or the pressure regulator are in particular controlled by the control system.

[0052] Of course, the different features, variants and / or embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other in various ways combinations insofar as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. Brief description of the figures

[0053] The present invention will be better understood and other features and advantages will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description, which includes embodiments given by way of illustration with reference to the accompanying figures, presented by way of non-limiting examples, which may serve to complete the understanding of the present invention and the explanation of its implementation and, where appropriate, contribute to its definition, on which:

[0054] [Fig-1] [Fig.1] is a schematic view of a respiratory system according to a first method of embodiment of the invention,

[0055] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a schematic view of a respiratory system according to a second embodiment of the invention,

[0056] [Fig.3] Fig.3 is a schematic view of a respiratory system according to a third embodiment of the invention,

[0057] [Fig.4] Fig.4 is a schematic view of a respiratory system according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, and

[0058] [Fig.5] The [Fig.5] is a schematic view of a respiratory system according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. Detailed description of the invention

[0059] A breathing system 10, particularly for an aircraft, according to a first embodiment of the invention, is shown in [Fig. 1] in a schematic view. Such a breathing system 10 is intended to deliver or distribute a gaseous mixture comprising a breathable gas to at least one occupant of an aircraft.

[0060] The distribution of a gas mixture can be carried out from a source of breathable gas. Such a source of breathable gas can be a gas mixture comprising oxygen or air highly enriched in oxygen, stored in one or more cylinders, or pressurized oxygen reserves, located on board the aircraft.

[0061] The oxygen supply can be replaced by an onboard oxygen generation system, such as one or more onboard oxygen generation systems (also referred to by the acronym OBOGS for "OnBoard Oxygen Generation System") supplied with air from the compressor of one or more of the engines.

[0062] The on-board oxygen generating system may also include a molecular sieve oxygen generating system (also referred to by the acronym MSOGS for "Molecular Sieve Oxygen Generating Systems" in English) arranged to provide oxygen-enriched air of a desired oxygen concentration value by adsorbing nitrogen from the air fed into the system.

[0063] The occupant may be, for example, an aircraft pilot, whose vigilance and performance are crucial at all times. He must therefore receive a proportion of oxygen adapted to the critical situation he faces for extended periods.

[0064] The breathing system 10 includes a regulator 1, adapted to deliver a gas flow into a distribution member. The distribution member includes at least one conduit 2, suitable for allowing circulation of the gas mixture comprising the breathable gas, and a mask 3, intended for diffusing the gas mixture comprising the breathable gas to the occupant.

[0065] The respiratory system 10 also includes a control system 4.

[0066] According to an example of an embodiment of the invention, the regulator 1 is a demand regulator, that is to say configured to deliver the gas flow during an inhalation by the occupant.

[0067] For this purpose, the regulator 1 includes a gas mixture inlet 100, in particular a first gas mixture inlet 100. The gas mixture inlet 100 can be connected to a source of breathable gas, in particular a first source of breathable gas, for example pure oxygen from a pressurized cylinder.

[0068] The gas mixture inlet 100 is provided with a gas mixture inlet valve 101, in particular a first gas mixture inlet valve 101, adapted to regulate a flow of gas mixture flowing through the gas mixture inlet 100.

[0069] The gas mixture inlet valve 101 is in particular an electronic valve comprising a control device adapted to continuously control a progressive opening of the gas mixture inlet valve 101. In particular, the gas mixture inlet valve 101 advantageously has a very fast opening and closing dynamic, for example greater than or equal to 10 Hz, i.e. that the gas mixture inlet valve 101 can open or close in less than one tenth of a second, in particular on command of the control system 4.

[0070] The control device for the gas mixture inlet valve 101 is, for example, of the piezoelectric, electromagnetic, electrostatic, pneumatic, or other type. It may be, for example, a linear or rotary actuator.

[0071] Furthermore, the gas mixture inlet valve 101 is likely to be directly controlled or amplified, in particular by a pneumatic system amplifying a control signal provided by the control device 4 of the gas mixture inlet valve 101, in particular the electrical control device of the gas mixture inlet valve 101.

[0072] The gas mixture inlet 100 opens into a chamber 102 of the regulator 1. The chamber 102 of regulator 1 includes a gas mixture outlet 103 in fluidic connection to the line 2.

[0073] Chamber 102 is a sealed chamber. Furthermore, according to a particular embodiment, chamber 102 may include at least one pressure regulating means for regulating the pressure of the gas mixture present in chamber 102.

[0074] In the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the pressure regulation means includes at least one pressure sensor 104. The pressure sensor 104 is arranged to measure a pressure in the chamber 102, in particular under the control of the control system 4. Thus configured, the control system 4 drives the control device of the gas mixture inlet valve 101.

[0075] The regulator 1 may also include a damping device, such as a pneumatic damper. According to this alternative, the damping device includes a secondary chamber 106, preferably in fluidic connection with the main chamber 102. The fluidic connection between the main chamber 102 and the secondary chamber 106 may be achieved by a restriction 105. In such a configuration, the secondary chamber 106 can thus be considered as fluidically mounted in parallel with the main chamber 102.

[0076] In order to ensure a role as a damping device, the secondary chamber 106 has a volume and the restriction 105 has a diameter both chosen so as to dampen the pressure oscillations in the main chamber 102.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the damping device, in particular the pneumatic damper, comprises a divider separating the main chamber 102 into two sub-chambers connected fluidically in series. For this purpose, the divider separating the main chamber 102 includes a restriction ensuring fluid connection between the two sub-chambers connected in series. Thus, the gas mixture inlet 100 is arranged on one side of the divider and the gas mixture outlet 103 is arranged on the other side of the divider.

[0078] The number of chambers is not limited to two. A greater number of chambers can be envisaged, the plurality of chambers present being able to be fluidly connected in parallel and / or in series.

[0079] Alternatively, the damping device, in particular the pneumatic damper, may include a laminar outlet orifice and a membrane disposed in the main chamber 102 and / or the secondary chamber 106.

[0080] According to another alternative, the damping device, in particular the air damper, may include a diaphragm expansion vessel.

[0081] The regulator 1 may also include a pressure sensor 108, in particular a first pressure sensor 108, and / or a pressure regulator 107, in particular a first pressure regulator 107. In such a case, the pressure sensor 108 and / or The pressure regulator 107 is / are mounted on the inlet 100 upstream of the gas mixture inlet valve 101. Advantageously, the pressure sensor 108 and / or the pressure regulator 107 is / are controlled by the control system 4.

[0082] The pressure sensor 108 and the pressure regulator 107 make it possible to overcome variations in the pressure of the gas mixture of the breathable gas source, by measuring and compensating for possible pressure variations upstream of the gas mixture inlet valve 101.

[0083] The conduit 2 is advantageously flexible, or at least partially flexible, particularly in a portion connected to the mask 3. A first end of the conduit 2 is connected to the gas mixture outlet 103 of the regulator 1. A second end of the conduit 2 is connected to the mask 3. The conduit 2 provides a fluidic link between the gas mixture outlet 103 and the mask 3, so that the breathable gas mixture flowing through the gas mixture inlet valve 101 is delivered to the wearer of the mask 3.

[0084] Conduit 2 is advantageously a conduit of small diameter and preferably has a low weight in order to exert moderate discomfort in case of prolonged wearing of mask 3.

[0085] By way of example, the surface area of ​​an internal section of the pipe 2 may be less than or equal to 150 mm2, in particular less than or equal to 115 mm2, in particular less than or equal to 85 mm2, more specifically less than or equal to 80 mm2.

[0086] Mask 3 is an oronasal mask designed to be placed on the face of the occupant, or wearer, to whom the gas mixture including the breathable gas is to be delivered. It is preferably fitted tightly to the face of the wearer of Mask 3. To this end, Mask 3 may be equipped with a retention device to ensure that Mask 3 remains in place on the occupant's face. Such a retention device is, for example, an elastic harness, a bayonet fastening system, or a mechanical harness.

[0087] The mask 3 is generally concave in shape and defines an internal space 305. When the mask 3 is fixed to the wearer's face, the wearer's skin closes the internal space 305.

[0088] The gas mixture comprising the breathable gas is diffused into the internal space 305, so that the wearer of the mask 3 can inhale it and, on the other hand, exhale it.

[0089] The mask 3 includes a mask inlet 300 connected to the second end of the conduit 2. According to one embodiment, the mask inlet 300 is provided with an inhalation valve 301 into which the conduit 2 opens. The inhalation valve 301 is suitable for allowing the entry of the gas mixture comprising the breathable gas from the conduit 2 into the internal space 305.

[0090] In addition, the mask 3 may also include a diluent gas inlet valve 303, in particular a first diluent gas inlet valve 303, opening onto the outside of the mask 3. The diluent gas inlet valve 303 is suitable for allowing the admission of a diluent gas into the internal space 305, in particular a diluent gas coming from the external environment.

[0091] The mask 3 also advantageously includes an exhalation valve 302. The exhalation valve 302 is suitable for allowing the ejection of gases exhaled by the wearer. The exhalation valve 302 may include an exhalation flap 302b. The exhalation flap 302b may be held in the closed position by an elastic element.

[0092] The exhalation valve 302 may also include a compensation chamber 302c in which a compensation pressure Pc exists. In addition, the exhalation valve 302 may also include a communication channel 302a suitable for connecting the compensation chamber 302 to the line 2 of the regulator 1, in particular at the mask inlet 300 of the mask 3.

[0093] According to a particular alternative of the invention, the exhalation valve 302b is designed so that the compensation pressure Pc prevailing in the compensation chamber 302c and a pressure P prevailing in the internal space 305 of the mask 3 are applied to comparable surfaces of the exhalation valve 302b. As a result, as long as the pressure P in the internal space 305 is less than the compensation pressure Pc, the exhalation valve 302b is closed.

[0094] During overpressure exhalation, i.e., when the pressure P in the internal space 305 exceeds the compensation pressure Pc in the compensation chamber 302c, the exhalation valve 302b opens. The gases exhaled by the wearer can then be expelled from the mask 3.

[0095] This allows the gas to escape from the internal space 305, located between the mask 3 and the wearer's skin, only when the pressure P in the internal space 305 exceeds the pressure in the conduit 2. This allows an overpressure to be maintained in the internal space 305.

[0096] The mask 3 further includes a pressure sensor 304 adapted to measure the pressure P in the internal space 305. The pressure sensor 304 of the mask 3 is advantageously connected to the control system 4. The measurement of the pressure P in the internal space 305 makes it possible in particular to detect the wearer's inspirations and to deliver the gas mixture including the required breathable gas.

[0097] The control system 4 is, for example, an electronic card, comprising at least one processor adapted to execute programs and at least one memory on which instructions for the execution of these programs are stored.

[0098] According to another mode of relationship, the control system 4 can also be totally analog. The control system 4 can also include a logic of control or pilot electronics and power electronics enabling control of the gas mixture inlet valve 101.

[0099] The control system 4 is specifically configured to operate the breathing system 10 in various desired operating modes, including four desired operating modes, and allows selection of the operating mode via an interface or automatically depending on the circumstances.

[0100] A first operating mode is one in which undiluted oxygen is supplied at ambient pressure. In the first operating mode, the diluent gas inlet valve 303 is kept closed.

[0101] When the wearer inhales, this defines an inspiratory demand which forms a depression in the internal space 305. As a result, the inspiration valve 301 opens allowing communication between the conduit 2 and the internal space 305 of the mask 3.

[0102] In parallel, the pressure sensor 104 located in the chamber 102 of the regulator 1 and the pressure sensor 304 of the mask 3, in particular mounted on the mask 3, are used by the control system 4 to control the gas mixture inlet valve 101 and allow the entry of the gas mixture including the breathable gas into the chamber 102.

[0103] At the end of the inspiratory phase, the pressures at the mask 3, the line 2 and the chamber 102 of the regulator 1 stabilize around the ambient pressure. The gas mixture inlet valve 101 is then closed.

[0104] During the expiratory phase, the expiratory valve 302 opens under the effect of the expiratory overpressure in the internal space 305, in order to allow the evacuation of exhaled gases to the outside of the mask 3.

[0105] The second operating mode is that in which a supply of undiluted oxygen under positive pressure is ensured. The second operating mode is similar to the first operating mode except that the diluent gas inlet valve 303 is kept closed.

[0106] To achieve overpressure at the level of the internal space 305, also called the oronasal cavity, the gas mixture inlet valve 101 allows a supply of the gas mixture including the breathable gas to the mask 3 as long as the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 304 in the internal space 305 is less than the targeted overpressure.

[0107] At the end of the inspiratory phase, the pressures in the mask 3 and in the chamber 102 stabilize around the target overpressure. The control system 4 commands the closure of the gas mixture inlet valve 101.

[0108] The evacuation of exhaled gases is done via the exhalation valve 302. This then allows the maintenance of a pressure in the internal space 305 close to or substantially equal to the pressure in the pipe 2, regulated by means of the pressure sensor 104.

[0109] The third mode of operation is that in which a supply of the gaseous mixture comprising the breathing gas and the diluent gas is ensured. This makes it possible to protect the wearer of the mask 3 against the effects of hyperoxia.

[0110] Indeed, under certain conditions, it may be necessary to dilute a gas mixture comprising the breathable gas from the breathing gas source, in particular the enriched oxygen source, with a diluent gas, especially ambient air. This therefore protects the wearer of mask 3 against the effects of hyperoxia. It also optimizes autonomy, etc.

[0111] To do this, the control system 4 controls the opening of the diluent gas inlet valve 303 in parallel with the supply of the gas mixture including the breathing gas, according to a level of dilution, i.e. the proportion between the gas mixture including the breathing gas and the diluent gas, desired.

[0112] The fourth operating mode corresponds to the extreme case in which a complete supply of ambient air is desired for the wearer of mask 3. This allows for preventive use of mask 3 without consumption of the gas mixture comprising the respirable gas, in particular from an oxygen reserve. The diluent gas inlet valve 303 of mask 3 is then open and the gas mixture inlet valve 101 is closed.

[0113] Figures 1 to 5 show different embodiments of the invention. Consequently, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different embodiments may have the same reference numerals. Thus, unless otherwise stated, such elements have identical structural, dimensional, and material properties and similar operation.

[0114] A second embodiment of the invention is shown in [Fig. 2] in schematic view. The second embodiment is identical to the first embodiment of the invention shown in [Fig. 1] except for a few aspects which will be described below.

[0115] In the second embodiment, the pressure regulation means in chamber 102 comprises at least one flow sensor 110, in particular at least one first flow sensor 110a and / or at least one second flow sensor 110b. The flow sensor 110, in particular the first flow sensor 110a and the second flow sensor 110b, complement(s) the pressure sensor 104, or replace it.

[0116] Each flow sensor 110 is, for example, a thermal sensor, in particular of the hot-wire type, a sonic sensor, in particular of the Doppler type, a mechanical sensor, in particular of the cantilever or Coriolis type, or a pressure drop sensor, in particular of the venturi, laminar, thin orifice type...

[0117] More specifically, the first flow sensor 110a, and respectively the second flow sensor 110b, may be a thermal sensor, in particular of the wire sensor type hot, a sonic sensor, particularly of the Doppler type, a mechanical sensor, particularly of the cantilever or Coriolis type, or a pressure-loss sensor, particularly of the venturi, laminar, thin orifice type...

[0118] In particular, the first flow sensor 110a and the second flow sensor 110b may be of different types.

[0119] Pressure sensors positioned according to the geometry of the valves and conduits also make it possible to obtain an equivalent flow value, according to Bernoulli's or Poiseuille's laws.

[0120] According to a particular embodiment, the first flow sensor 110a can be mounted so as to measure a flow rate of gas mixture including the breathable gas through the gas mixture outlet 103. Complementarily or alternatively, the second flow sensor 110b can be mounted so as to measure a flow rate of gas mixture including the breathable gas through the gas mixture inlet 100.

[0121] Preferably, the first flow sensor 110a, respectively the second flow sensor 110b, is connected to the control system 4. In such a configuration, the control system 4 is configured to adapt a gas mixture supply including breathable gas from the inlet and outlet flow rates and, advantageously, from the control device of the gas mixture inlet valve 101, in particular from the pneumatic system downstream to the gas mixture inlet valve 101.

[0122] Furthermore, the first flow sensor 110a, respectively the second flow sensor 110b, provides flow information of gas mixture including the breathing gas delivered to the wearer of the mask 3, which is very advantageous for calculating a dilution rate in the third operating mode described above, in which a supply of the gas mixture including the breathing gas and diluent gas is ensured.

[0123] Alternatively, a single flow sensor 110 can be used, at the gas mixture inlet 100 or the gas mixture outlet 103.

[0124] A third embodiment is shown in [Fig. 3] in a schematic view. The third embodiment is identical to the second embodiment of the invention shown in [Fig. 2], except for a few aspects which will be described below.

[0125] In the third embodiment, the pressure regulation means in the chamber 102 comprises at least one mechanical element 111, in particular at least one membrane 111, especially at least one elastic membrane 111. The pressure in the chamber 102 is exerted on the mechanical element 111, specifically on the membrane 111.

[0126] According to a particular arrangement of the present invention, the mechanical element 111 is connected to the gas mixture inlet valve 101. Thus arranged, the mechanical element 111, in particular the elastic diaphragm 111, is capable of actuating the gas mixture inlet valve 101 to cause it to close when the pressure exerted on the mechanical element 111 exceeds the ambient pressure. The mechanical element 111 is therefore arranged to withstand a force exerted by the pressure in the chamber 102 and to transmit a mechanical control feedback force to the gas mixture inlet valve 101.

[0127] This allows for the implementation of purely mechanical pressure regulation in chamber 102, without the involvement of any electronic device.

[0128] Furthermore, the mechanical element 111, particularly in the form of the diaphragm 111 or a piston, can be supplemented by an elastic element opposing its action. Such a configuration makes it possible to implement purely mechanical regulation in which it is possible to vary a pressure threshold that causes the gas mixture inlet valve 101 to close.

[0129] A fourth embodiment is shown in [Fig. 4] in schematic view. The fourth embodiment is identical to the first embodiment of the invention shown in [Fig. 1], except for a few aspects which will be described below.

[0130] In the fourth embodiment, the mask 3 preferably does not have a diluent gas inlet valve in direct communication with the outside.

[0131] According to the fourth embodiment, the regulator 1 includes a second gas mixture inlet 100c. The second gas mixture inlet 100c is suitable for being connected to a second source of breathable gas, in particular a source of compressed air, acting as a source of diluent gas.

[0132] According to an alternative embodiment, the first source of breathable gas and the second source of breathable gas can be the same and a single source of breathable gas.

[0133] The second gas mixture inlet 100c opens into the chamber 102, in particular through a diluent gas inlet valve 101c, specifically a second diluent gas inlet valve 101c. The second diluent gas inlet valve 101c is likely to be a valve similar to the first gas mixture inlet valve 101 and is suitable for being controlled by the control system 4.

[0134] According to a particular arrangement of the fourth embodiment, the first gas mixture inlet valve 101 and the second diluent gas inlet valve 101c are respectively equipped with flow sensors 110.

[0135] In particular, the first gas mixture inlet valve 101 is provided with the second flow sensor 110b, as described previously in relation to the Figures 2 and 3. Furthermore, the second diluent gas inlet valve 101c is equipped with a third flow sensor 110c, specifically similar to the first flow sensor 110a or the second flow sensor 110b described previously. The third flow sensor 110c is also part of the control means.

[0136] The second gas mixture inlet 100c optionally includes a second pressure sensor 108c and / or a second pressure regulator 107c. In such a case, the second pressure sensor 108c and / or the second pressure regulator 107c is / are located on the second gas mixture inlet 100c upstream of the second diluent gas inlet valve 101c. The second pressure sensor 108c, and / or the second pressure regulator 107c, respectively, may be similar to the first pressure sensor 108 and / or the first pressure regulator 107, respectively, described for the first gas mixture inlet valve 101.

[0137] The control system 4 is then able to regulate both the inlet flow of breathing gas and the inlet flow of diluent gas, by controlling the first gas mixture inlet valve 101 and the second diluent gas inlet valve 101c, the dilution taking place in the chamber 102 upstream of the line 2 ensuring the fluidic link between the regulator 1 and the mask 3.

[0138] Such a control system 4 thus allows precise regulation of the proportion of breathable gas, in particular oxygen, in the gas mixture delivered to the user, wearing the mask 3.

[0139] Alternatively, the dilution control can be carried out, either alternatively or additionally, by an oxygen sensor located in chamber 102, which can then replace the second flow sensor 110b and / or the third flow sensor 110c. It may also be possible to use a physiological measurement of the user, wearing the mask 3, for example provided by a pulse oximeter, in order to regulate the dilution level.

[0140] Alternatively, the localized oxygen sensor is suitable for being disposed in the conduit 2 fluidly connecting the gas mixture outlet 103 of the regulator 1 to the mask 3.

[0141] A fifth embodiment is shown in [Fig. 5] in schematic view. The fifth embodiment is identical to the first embodiment of the invention shown in [Fig. 1], except for a few aspects which will be described below.

[0142] In the fifth embodiment, the damping device, in particular the pneumatic damper and specifically the secondary chamber 106, is fluidically arranged in series with the main chamber 102, in particular upstream of the main chamber 102 in the direction of flow of the gas mixture comprising the breathable gas

[0143] For this purpose, a divider is arranged between the main chamber 102 and the damping device, in particular the secondary chamber 106. In such a configuration, the divider has a restriction 105 ensuring the fluidic connection between the main chamber 102 and the damping device mounted in series.

[0144] Thus, the gas mixture inlet 100 is arranged on one side of the divider, in particular opening into the main chamber 102, and the gas mixture outlet 103 is arranged on the other side of the divider, in particular opening into the secondary chamber 106.

[0145] Obviously, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and provided solely by way of example. It encompasses various modifications, alternative forms and other variants that a person skilled in the art may consider within the scope of the present invention, and in particular all combinations of the different modes of operation described above, which may be taken separately or in combination, provided that such combinations are not incompatible with each other.

Claims

Demands

1. A breathing system, particularly for an aircraft, comprising: - a remote regulator (1), comprising: • a chamber (102), • at least one gas mixture inlet (100) connected to a breathable gas source, opening into the chamber (102) via a gas mixture inlet valve (101), and • a gas mixture outlet (103) opening into the chamber (102), and • at least one means for regulating (104, 110a, 110b, 110c, 111) a pressure in the chamber (102), - a breathing mask (3), intended to be placed on the face of a user, defining an internal space (305), comprising a pressure sensor (304), adapted to measure a pressure in the internal space (305), - at least one line (2) fluidly connecting the gas mixture outlet (103) of the regulator (1) to the mask (3), - at least one diluent gas inlet valve (303, 101c),adapted to deliver a diluent gas into the internal space (305) and / or into the chamber (102), and - at least one control system (4) connected to the pressure sensor (304) and the regulating means (104, 110a, 110b, 110c, 111) and configured to control the gas mixture inlet valve (101) and / or the diluent gas inlet valve (303, 101c).

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the control means includes at least one pressure sensor (104) adapted to measure a pressure in the chamber (102) and connected to the control system (4).

3. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means comprises at least one flow sensor (110a, 110b, 110c) adapted to measure a gas flow through the gas mixture inlet (100), and / or through the gas mixture outlet (103) of the regulator (1) and connected to the control system (4).

4. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means comprises at least one mechanical element (111) arranged to undergo a force exerted by the pressure in the chamber (102) and to transmit a mechanical control return force to the gas mixture inlet valve (101).

5. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conduit (2) opens into the internal space (305) of the mask (3) through an inspiration valve (301).

6. System according to the preceding claim, wherein the mask (3) includes an exhalation valve (302), in particular regulated by an internal pressure of the conduit (2).

7. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conduit (2) has an internal cross-sectional area less than or equal to 150 mm2, in particular less than or equal to 115 mm2, in particular less than or equal to 80 mm2, more specifically less than or equal to 80 mm2.

8. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the diluent gas inlet valve (101c) opens into the chamber (102) of the regulator (1) and is connected to a source of breathable gas, in particular a second source of breathable gas, in particular a source of compressed air.

9. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the regulator (1) includes a damping device, in particular a secondary chamber (106), in fluidic communication with the chamber (102), in particular by a restriction (105), adapted to filter pressure oscillations in the chamber (102).

10. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the regulator (1) comprises a pressure sensor (108) and / or a pressure regulator (107) disposed upstream of the gas mixture inlet valve (101) and configured respectively to measure and / or regulate a gas mixture pressure from the breathing gas source.

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