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

Abstract

Figure from the summary: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Removable connection for an amperometric probe, method for 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 of 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] This disclosure relates more specifically to a connection arrangement for mounting an amperometric sensing probe in a measuring instrument, particularly for a probe with a generally rod-like shape. A method for replacing a probe using this connection is also disclosed. A probe specially adapted to operate in the measuring instrument via such a connection is also covered by this disclosure. Technological background

[0003] In the field of detecting properties of a (solid) substance suspended in a liquid solution including a reagent, for example by amperometric measurement of the iodine absorption rate of this substance, devices are known that combine a container containing the solution to be characterized with at least two electrodes to allow measurement of an electrolysis current between the two electrodes, representative of an iodine concentration. Document FR 2838518 proposes to introduce 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 allowing the current in the solution to be measured, including before the generation of iodine.

[0004] In this device from Chopin Technologies, known as the 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 means, in practice, that the block must be disassembled, 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 prove tedious.

[0005] There is therefore a need to improve the situation. Résumé

[0006] To this end, a probe connection arrangement (probe having for example a general rod shape) is proposed for connecting the probe in an amperometric measuring device, the arrangement comprising the probe, a female connection element provided in a receiving interface, and a male element provided in the probe, knowing that the female element can be part of the underside of a housing suitable for being placed above a container (beaker or similar) containing a solution to be analyzed by amperometry.This arrangement includes a lower surface of the housing which extends transversely with respect to a direction of elongation of the probe, the receiving interface including / defining said lower housing with this lower surface, the female organ being accessible by an access in the lower surface to allow insertion, in particular linear insertion of the male organ (allowing a degree of rotation where appropriate, which may be useful especially if significant friction is obtained during passage through the female organ).The receiving interface is configured to simultaneously connect a plug forming all or part of the male component into a socket, and to allow a predetermined angular placement of a stop edge, rotationally fixed to the plug and provided on a periphery of the probe (for example, away from the probe ends), this stop edge coming against a rim marking an end of insertion travel of the male component, with the particularity that a lock is provided to be removably locked by engaging on a fixing region of a flange forming the underside of the housing, by engaging (from below) the stop 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 comprises: - the flange which is provided with an opening forming said access, and - the socket facing the opening, being positioned behind this opening in a direction of insertion (typically upward / vertical when the connection arrangement is located in the measuring device) of the male organ into the female organ through the opening. It is understood that the plug is designed to be inserted / 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, following the insertion direction. The socket forms, for example, an electrical connection, allowing, for instance, a data or electrical signal link with a device control unit. The male component may include a section with an external tubular wall extending between the stop edge and an upper axial end that includes the plug and has connection terminals linked to the probe electrodes (the probe). being an amperometric detection probe including said electrodes with a lower amperometric measurement part, external to the housing and extending axially along the elongation direction opposite the upper axial end).

[0008] The flange may advantageously include, on the lower surface, and preferably in the same excavation / stepping zone: - the rim / at least one rim, preferably annular, against which the stopper edge abuts axially in the assembled state; and - the fixing region in which at least one lock (possibly a one-piece lock) can engage and lock removably, to both lock / maintain the axial position of the probe and retain a predetermined position which may be a predetermined indexing position of the probe (angular position) relative to the receiving interface. With a stopper edge, meaning an edge / rim wider than the upper part of the probe inserted through the opening, any risk of over-insertion is prevented. Furthermore, the indexing position achieved at the probe's end pin and / or at the mounting area allows for correct and error-free probe placement. The mounting area can be formed as a depression or cutout (in the flange) with the opening at its base.

[0009] According to one particular feature, the section forming the male member can rub against the edge of the opening, thus guiding the probe without accidental drop (preventing accidental drop) during insertion. The edge of the depression / recess allows, for example, centering during the final axial positioning of the plug in the socket. Then, or simultaneously with this centering, the locking mechanism secures a portion of the stop edge to prevent retraction.

[0010] In embodiments, the lower surface may be an external surface of the housing, typically extending substantially horizontally and positioned above an area for placing the container / beaker where the measurement is to be performed, by immersing the probe in the solution contained in the beaker. The flange may be attached to the rest of the housing by fasteners (screws, for example) distributed in a margin region of the lower surface, preferably annular, around the attachment area and around each of the other elements suitable for immersion 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 (remaining external) part of the probe formed under the stopper edge. - the lower (thinner) part of the probe can be surrounded by a sleeve of protection in phases (storage, transport, assembly / disassembly) other than the measurement stage, the sleeve may have an upper end capable of positioning itself in axial overlap with respect to the stop edge. - the fixing region is integrated into a depression or hollow corresponding to a step in the lower surface. - the step is delimited by a portion of lateral surface with complementary shape to the periphery of the stopping edge.

[0012] With such a mounting area, typically obtained by recessing (integrated into the thickness of the flange, for example near an agitator element also supported by the mounting interface), a robust mounting is ensured, compatible with removal as soon as the lock is released / withdrawn. The shape 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 recess can also be provided.

[0013] According to one particular feature, at least one locking device may be a single locking device, preferably made in one piece separate from the probe. The locking device may thus be a screw that is fixed in an edge area, at the margin via an opening or slot, in the stop edge (which may optionally have a collar shape). The locking mechanism can fix / maintain a position with rotational indexing of the probe; this position (with an anti-rotation effect, for example) is achieved before the male component is fully inserted. It is understood that this 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 salient 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 from a circumference of this main body.

[0014] In one embodiment, the probe can rotate at the end of its positioning. Optionally, the locking mechanism is distributed into two parts retaining a retaining tab formed on / forming part of the stop edge and which is adapted to engage, by rotation, in a recess in the fixing region. Such a tab with limited angular extension can, initially, push back (axially and / or radially) a deformable / elastic return element (the first locking element) which is in the access passage to the recess. And immediately, in a second step, this deformable element can (at the end of the rotation of the retaining tab) oppose a reverse rotation of the tab by returning to its default position. Such a recess is also delimited by another axial anti-retraction stop edge / element (the second locking element), which is for example parallel to the lower surface: the fixing tab engages behind this second stopping element during its rotation with the rest of the probe. This type of locking mechanism can be reversible, for example, by allowing external pressure on the elastic return mechanism. In this case, the connector can have a rotation-compatible connection system, for example, a bayonet fitting that operates simultaneously with the same movement.

[0015] Regardless of the specific locking method used, it is typically integrated into the mounting area so as to cover the stop edge while being offset to one side (only one side) and thus radially spaced and separated from the lower part of the probe and, where applicable, from the protective sleeve surrounding this lower part. The stopper edge may optionally feature or carry a misalignment 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 one particular feature, the stop edge has a non-circular cut out, delimiting at least one portion of the edge to define a radial extension of the stop edge which is locally narrowed and located in a region adjacent to the agitator. Optionally, a keying means is thus formed (possibly additional to and complementing a keying action performed at the upper end of the plug). More generally, it is provided that at least one of the stop edge and the plug has or carries a keying means cooperating with a complementary guiding and engagement surface provided in the receiving interface to allow a predetermined angular position of the probe to be obtained after the start of the insertion of the male organ.

[0017] The keying means optionally cooperates with a complementary engagement surface of the female organ or the socket to allow a predetermined angular position of the probe to be obtained after the start of the insertion of the male organ and before the end of the connection of the plug in the socket. Typically, a part of the female organ then surrounds the stopper edge.

[0018] According to a particular feature of the receiving interface, the latter is part of a measuring head that is movable by pivoting around a horizontal axis provided in the device. The probe can be rigidly fixed to the receiving interface, so that the probe is fixed to the measuring head when the measuring head pivots.

[0019] In embodiment options for the probe, one or more of the following features may be provided: - an insertion part of the probe (which may 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 stopping edge to cover a annular region of said rim which is preferably made in the form of a shoulder or internal rim adjacent to the opening, 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 stopper edge. - the probe can be centered with respect to a periphery of the stopping edge. - the external diameter of the male organ can be constant to slide, preferably with friction, in the circular section bore 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 one particular feature, the female organ widens due to a depression / relief (dislocation) in the flange. The external shoulder of the probe can bear against the depression / relief in the flange, filling this recess, with the possible exception of a locking receiving area, for example, when it is a screw or similar elongated element to retain the stop edge in its inserted position in the recess.

[0021] In options using a stirrer connected to the receiving interface, one or more of the following options may be used: - the excavation is adjacent to a connection area for the agitator, 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 peripheral annular projection projecting downwards. - in the probe, the rim and the external shoulder have locally a narrowed radial extension in a region adjacent to the agitator (optionally this may facilitate guidance or possibly participate in rotational indexing of the stopper edge (for example by association / complementarity of shape with the hollowing).

[0022] According to one particular feature, the lock and the stop edge cooperate while the probe is already blocked in rotation or, alternatively, co-act 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 wrap-around block including an external side wall of the housing. The annular radial fixing portion can surround the central portion of the flange through which the agitator passes, possibly in a coaxial manner.

[0023] In embodiments that protect the probe, in particular its lower part, one or more of the following arrangements may be used: - the probe has an annular slot or cavity, allowing for the attachment of the removable protective sleeve. - the arrangement includes the protective sleeve which has an open end suitable for mounting on the probe in an annular fixing area. - the sleeve has means of attachment 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, being configured to wrap around the lower part of the probe, in a fixed state in which the sleeve is inserted by its open end into the annular slot or cavity. - the sleeve can be removed from the annular slot or cavity by rotation, preferably by unscrewing. - the slot or cavity (for example a threaded groove) can allow either insertion by screwing, or possibly direct insertion without screwing, when the edge around the opening at the open end can deform or be clipped.

[0024] According to one particular feature, the removable probe allows: - to generate iodine electrochemically, via two generation electrodes, - to 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 can extend to the same level as a paddle element or similar rotating stirring part of an agitator that extends parallel to the probe and is connected to the same flange without the aforementioned locking mechanism. During measurement, the solution in the container is agitated, via the mechanical agitator, and heated, via a heating element (of the immersion type, located on the other side of the agitator).

[0025] The apparatus is designed to perform measurements, using the probe, in a single container into which a sample of a product such as flour can be introduced, once iodine or a similar substance used in an amperometric measurement has been generated and quantified. In a preferred application, the product sample contains starch, and it is the damaged starch in this product (flour, for example) that absorbs the iodine; by measuring the amount of iodine remaining, the percentage of damaged starch in the product sample can be deduced.

[0026] According to another aspect, a method is proposed for installing a replacement probe using a connection arrangement, for example such as that defined in any one of the preceding claims, implemented in a device capable of accommodating said probe, which is an amperometric measuring probe, in the form general elongated rod following an elongation direction and having a stop edge provided between a lower amperometric measurement portion and an upper male member of the probe inserted into a female member of a receiving interface formed in a housing of the apparatus, the female member opening from the bottom of the housing which is suitable for being placed above a container containing a solution to be analyzed by amperometry, the process comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - after optionally covering, with 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, disengage a lock, preferably by a rotational driving action, to remove it from below from a fixing region formed on the underside of the interface in a flange including the female part; - extract the previously installed probe from the housing, by pulling downwards using an opening of the female part; - insert the replacement probe, equipped with a removable protective sleeve around its lower part, this insertion being carried out so as to engage the male part in the female part from the underside of the housing, until it covers, by the stop edge, an annular rim adjacent to the opening, present in the flange, the stop edge which is rotationally fixed to an electrical connection plug provided at an upper end of the probe then comes to rest axially under the rim, 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, block and lock the full insertion position by engaging the lock in the fixing area by sandwiching the stopper edge between the rim and an anti-removal part provided in the lock.

[0027] Replacing the probe is easy, with the option of using a protective sleeve that attaches more centrally than the lock, without the lock interfering with the sleeve's connection / disconnection. This lock thus selectively secures 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, an amperometric measuring probe is proposed, specially adapted to cooperate in a device for measuring the iodine absorption rate of a substance, by connecting using 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 conjunction 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 measurement electrodes, knowing that at least one of the plug and the stopper edge has: - a non-circular perimeter with an angular indexing effect, thus forming a keying device capable of being inserted by complementary shape into a female part provided in a housing 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 a rotational attachment of a protective sleeve intended to surround the lower part extending from the stopper edge to the first end; and. - a locking hole or notch suitable for aligning with a fixing hole provided in a margin area of ​​the recess, said hole or notch being radially offset outwards relative to the annular slot or cavity, in order to allow the upward passage of a removable lock held in the fixing hole and butting from below against the stop edge, even in the presence of the protective sleeve.

[0029] In embodiments, at least one of the following features may be used: - 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 devoid 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 by surrounding a top / upper part of the glass body of the probe. Brief description of the drawings

[0030] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which:

[0031] [Fig.1] is a perspective view of a connection arrangement, before mounting the amperometric measurement probe.

[0032] Fig. 2 shows in perspective a device having a movable measuring head allowing the measuring probe to be positioned vertically opposite a container reception area.

[0033] [Fig.3] shows, in perspective, an assembled configuration of the connection arrangement of [Fig.1], with the measuring probe locked in position.

[0034] [Fig. 4] is a bottom view illustrating the mounted position of different components, including the measuring probe, on the same flange attached to a device of the type illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0035] [Fig.5] is a longitudinal sectional view, allowing to illustrate the final insertion position of the measuring probe, in the arrangement of [Fig.3].

[0036] [Fig.6] shows an example of an embodiment of the outer / lower part of a probe usable in an arrangement according to the invention. Figure [Fig. 7] shows a detail of one end of the measuring probe before it was attached. Description of the implementation methods

[0037] Several non-limiting examples of embodiments are set out in detail below. In the various figures, identical reference numerals indicate identical or similar elements.

[0038] With reference to Figures 1 to 6, a measuring portion of an apparatus 15 intended for performing qualitative analyses can be seen. The measurement is made by immersing a probe 2 in a solution containing the substance to be analyzed. Such an apparatus 15 may comprise two parts: a fixed part with a base S and a movable part, in this case a measuring head T pivotally mounted on the fixed part and able to rotate about an axis A. The arrow R in [Fig. 2] indicates the direction of lifting (tilting backward) by a rotation that may not exceed a quarter turn, in order to provide access to a mounting area for the measuring probe 2 and to allow its removal (with the necessary clearance) from this removablely mounted probe 2. Of course, another type of movement (lateral pivoting of the head T, mounted with a recoil effect) may be provided in alternative designs.

[0039] The device 15 has a flange 4 that can be associated with a side wall 3 to delimit the exterior of a housing 3 for the measuring head T. The flange 4 forms / includes a lower surface S3 of this housing 3 and allows the probe 2 to be fixed. For this purpose, the flange 4 includes an opening 01 providing access to a hollow internal space H3 located in the housing 3. The device 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.

[0040] Such an interface 10 comprises an RC socket opposite the opening 01, positioned behind this opening 01 in a direction suitable for the insertion of the probe 2. It may be permissible to house (partially) the probe 2 within the hollow internal space H3 while connecting terminals bl, b2 of the probe 2 to the RC socket, which are linked to a lower region where the sensing / detection part of the probe 2 is formed. The measuring head T may include a spacing structure 31 for offsetting the female RC socket or similar fitting, to a position axially distant from the flange 4 and the opening 01. Rods 31a rigid, parallel to the X10 axis, can thus be distributed around the periphery of this internal space H3, to rigidly maintain the distal arrangement of the RC socket.

[0041] The probe 2, the receiving interface 10 with a movable lock 9, together form a connection arrangement 1 allowing robust / rigid attachment of the probe 2 while facilitating selective mounting and dismounting of this probe 2 by making a male member 2a provided on the probe 2 cooperate with a female member 5, after inserting the male member 2a through the opening 01 until: - the connection of probe 2 to the RC socket, using a plug 6 forming all or part of the male component 2a; and - an axial stop contact of probe 2 against a rim 8 formed in a border region of the opening 01.

[0042] The female organ 5, accessible from below the housing 3, can, at least in part, be integrated into the flange 4, which may have a notch Dr, visible in particular in Figures 1, 4 and 5, to facilitate the placement of a stop edge 2b provided as a radially projecting part of the probe 2 and suitable to bear against the rim 8 when the plug 6 connects to the RC fitting. 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.

[0043] In the apparatus 15, the base S is, for example, configured to receive a container 3 under the flange 4, optionally having a cavity or recess located directly above a central axis X10 of the receiving interface 10. The measuring head T includes, in particular, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, several elements suitable for immersion in the container 30, namely: an agitator 11, a heating element 12 which may include a heating resistor, and the measuring probe 2 suitable for performing conductivity measurements. The agitator 11 may have a section of rod extending along the central axis X10, such that the probe 2 is radially offset (on one side towards the outside) relative to the agitator 11. In some options, the measuring head T may also include a guide equipped with a vibrator for receiving a tool for loading the substance (possibly in the form of a small scoop). In such a case and / or in other designs, the measuring head T is hollow, allowing its wall P3 to define the hollow internal space H3, which is an empty area delimited above the flange 4 used for attaching at least the probe 2. Structure of the measuring probe

[0044] The probe 2 has a general rod-like shape, as clearly seen, for example, in the case of [Fig. 1], extending along a central axis defining an elongation direction X. The male member 2a may include a lateral surface elongated along this direction, with, for example, a circular cross-section optionally adapted for rub against an internal guide surface of the flange 4, corresponding to an orifice of a determined diameter and corresponding to the opening 01 which connects the space H3 and the reception area for the container 30 (area delimited under the casing in the operational state of the device 15).

[0045] With reference to Figures 3 and 6, this measuring probe 2 can extend between a first free axial end El and a second axial end E2 reaching the RC connector when the probe 2 is connected. The male member 2a has a section, without any protruding asperities interfering with the sliding of this member 2a through the opening 01, which extends between the stop edge 2b and the upper axial end E2. In [Fig. 1], the non-limiting case of an external tubular wall, typically cylindrical, which can thin at the connector 6, is illustrated. The stop edge 2b joins this wall, defining an external shoulder EE of the probe 2, which allows the stop edge 2b to cover an annular region of the rim 8, as illustrated, for example, in [Fig. 3]. The rim 8 defines a shoulder or internal rim adjacent to the opening 01. This rim 8 thus has a face perpendicular to the X10 axis and to the X axis, belonging to the lower surface S3.A step allows this rim 8 to be reached by the stop edge 2b only when the latter is guided by a lateral surface delimiting a recess (bore) in the flange 4, with the opening 01 selectively accessible via this recess. A rotational guidance and indexing effect can be achieved beforehand by combining a 2d relief (visible in [Fig. 7]), possibly elongated, provided on the upper end of probe 2 on the side of the connector 6, with a corresponding (complementary) female format provided in the RC socket. This provides an anti-rotation effect before the insertion phase of the stop edge 2b into the excavation resulting from the step Dr (or at the latest during this phase). Alternatively, or in addition, contact can be provided between the periphery of the stop edge 2b and the lateral surface delimiting the excavation / step Dr.

[0046] In the illustrated examples, a complementary shape, either total or partial, is provided between the periphery of the stop edge 2 and the circumference of the lateral boundary surface. A guiding effect, possibly for an anti-rotation function in certain options, is achieved here due to the non-circular geometry of the lateral surface. More generally, the probe 2 may have a structure with a specifically enlarged cross-section to form the stop edge 2 with a perimeter chosen to center the position and possibly limit the possibilities of torsion as it approaches the final insertion position of the male member 2a. This perimeter is preferably chosen to be non-circular, with a portion of the edge BD that can allow for an angular indexing effect if indexing is not already achieved by the initial insertion of the plug 6 into the RC socket. Optionally, this portion of the edge BD extends in a rope (following a straight cut / delimitation), viewed from below, in relation 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 can form a keying means capable of being inserted, typically by complementary shape, into a corresponding recess provided in the interface 10 and which can be inserted by passing over the underside of the flange 4.

[0047] 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 1E1, to allow for the rotational attachment of a protective sleeve 18, optionally of the single-opening type. Referring to [Fig. 5], for example, the annular cavity 20 has first fastening means adapted to cooperate with additional fastening means 28 carried by the sleeve 18 at its open end 18a. When the sleeve 18 is fixed by joining the intermediate area, for example after a rotational movement relative to the first means of securing, the outer / lower part 2c of the probe 2 can be completely surrounded (and protected) by the lateral face of the sleeve 18. The end El can also be protected by a termination of the sleeve 18, forming a closed end 18b.

[0048] In some embodiments, the annular cavity 20 is threaded, forming a rigid receiving / fixing groove for the sleeve 18. The annular cavity 20 may open axially at the same level as an annular face of the stop edge 2b facing the end EL Independently or in addition to the presence of such means of securing to hold 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.

[0049] The probe 2 can, in cooperation with the rest of the device, enable measurement of the iodine absorption rate of a substance, with parameterization options via a touchscreen 40 or similar human-machine interface of the device 15 equipped with display means. The lower end E1 of the probe 2 can have a temperature measuring thermistor 23, as shown in [Fig. 6]. Also in the lower position in the lower part 2c, the probe is provided with a pair of iodine-producing electrodes 21a, 21b and a pair of iodine concentration measuring electrodes 22a, 22b. In the embodiment shown, the electrode pairs 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b are in the form of ring pairs. These electrodes 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b can be protected by a sleeve 18, at least during manipulations of the measuring head T, in particular during the mounting or dismounting of the measuring probe 2. Examples for finalizing the probe assembly

[0050] The flange 4 can surround the probe 2 two successive receiving zones of the flange 4: one formed by the internal delimitation surface of the opening 01, the other formed by the lateral delimitation surface of the step Dr, knowing that the rim 8, with radial extension, can form an internal shoulder to make the connection between these two surfaces.

[0051] In the non-limiting example of Figures 1 and 3 to 5, the locking 9 is a part that can be anchored directly onto the flange 4 while bearing against the stop edge 2b, which is already axially engaged against the rim 8. The locking 9 can, for example, be fixed, possibly by screwing, in the recess or a similar area around the periphery of the opening 01. For this purpose, the flange 4 can have a fixing hole 02 opening through the lower surface S3. The locking hole or notch N provided on the stop edge 2b will be aligned with a fixing hole 02 by using a feature of the stop edge's contour or by employing a suitable keying device.In practice, alignment can be achieved using a rotational guiding and / or indexing effect, by direct contact of a guide with the circumference of the stop edge 2b (for example, via the delimiting surface of the step Dr or a similar imprint allowing for complementary shapes). Once the stop edge 2b is fitted / engaged to rest against 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.

[0052] In variants (not illustrated), the stopper edge 2b can also form a bayonet connection element, which is for example: - capable of moving, via a leading edge, a deformable element forming the lock and able to return to a default position to lock this element on the side of another edge distinct from the leading edge (the deformable element typically remaining accessible to allow unlocking, - or adapted to fit tightly, possibly with a cam effect, in a groove delimited by a retaining element. This also allows the bayonet assembly to be finalized.

[0053] Regardless of the method of intervention of the lock 9, whether in the form of one or several 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 stop 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 identical positions) relative to the receiving interface 10. In some options, a maximum radial extension of the 2b stopper edge, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, may be greater than or equal to 2 or 3 mm.

[0054] The flange 4 may include an annular radial portion MZ, which is preferably in the form of a peripheral annular projection projecting downwards from the rest of the underside of the flange 4. As seen in [Fig. 1] or 4, the opening 01 may be arranged radially between the agitator 11, which passes through a central portion of the flange 4, and the portion MZ. The rim 8 and the external shoulder EE may locally have a tapered radial extension in a region adjacent to the agitator 11.

[0055] The lock 9 and the stop edge 2b work together to block the probe 2 in translation (within the housing 3) relative to the RC socket, without creating any obstruction on the underside of the flange 4. In some options, the flange 4 is a part which has the annular radial portion MZ, perforated with openings 04 clearly visible in the example of [Fig.1] and crossed vertically by anchoring elements MF such as screws (preferably longer than the equivalent length or longitudinal dimension of the lock 9), so that the annular radial portion MZ allows a fixing to secure this part to a wrap-around block including the external side wall P3 of the housing 3.

[0056] With reference to Figures 4 and 5, the lock 9 can be a screw or anchoring element inserted from below, held axially in the orifice 02 by being radially offset outwards relative to the annular slot or cavity 20 when 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 retaining head of the stop edge 2 or to another anchoring element, it is understood that this lock 9 can be put in place simply, 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 dismantling of this probe 2, i.e. without dismantling the flange 4 or modifying the position of any of the other elements 11, 12 supported by the flange 4. Example of disconnection

[0057] 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 rotating it along arrow A relative to the fixed part with base S. A similar unscrewing or rotational actuation can be carried out, typically using a tool suitable for 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 on 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.

[0058] 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), typically with a tilting of the entire measuring head, so that it is then sufficient to: - to screw the probe cover (sleeve 18 here) onto the probe, - to unscrew the screw, similar nut or any type of locking release 9 which allows the probe 2 to be held in place, - to pull on the probe protection such as sleeve 18 to extract probe 2 out of interface 10. The installation of the new probe can be carried out in the same way, in reverse order. Typically, the user / operator only needs 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 graphical area, allowing for data entry.

[0059] In the absence of the lock 9 or more generally for any position with the lock removed / retracted, the probe 2 can be pulled linearly (downwards) without rotation, at least at the beginning of the disengagement movement of the male member 2a from the female member 5. It can then be replaced with an identical probe. When the sleeve 18 must be removed before using the device 15, it is preferable that the lock 9 be in its effective locking configuration. Removal of the sleeve 18 can begin by unscrewing it and then simply pulling it out, as shown in [Fig. 5], for example.The sleeve 18, at least when made of compressible plastic material, may optionally be thicker or may widen to form a lower gripping part which opposes crushing, in order to protect the lower part 2c.

[0060] The elements 2, 11, 12 mentioned above are grouped and positioned on the underside of the flange 4 in the same central area of ​​the surface S3 surrounded by the annular portion MZ, so as to be able to plunge into the container 30 which may be comparatively narrower than the flange 4.

[0061] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, only by way of example, but encompasses all the variants that a person skilled in the art may consider within the framework of the protection sought.

[0062] For example, although the drawings illustrate the case of a lower surface S3 having an essentially horizontal extension in the measuring configuration of the device 15, other geometries are suitable.

Claims

Demands

1. A connection arrangement (1) for a probe (2) having a general rod-like shape for connecting the probe to an amperometric measuring apparatus (15), 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 housing (3) adapted to be positioned 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 housing (3) extending transversely with respect to an elongation direction (X) of the probe (2) in its mounted state, the female member (5) being accessible through an opening in the lower surface (S3) to allow 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) opposite the opening (01), being positioned behind the opening (01) in a direction of insertion of the male organ (2a) into the female organ (5) through the opening (01), wherein a plug (6) forming all or part of the male organ (2a) is capable of being reversibly inserted into the socket (RC) 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 organ (2a) having a section with an external tubular wall extending between a stop edge (2b) and an upper axial end (E2) including the plug (6) and having connection terminals (1b, 2b2) in contact with electrodes (21a, 21b, 22a, 22b) of the probe, the stop edge (2b) being rotationally fixed of sheet (6), the probe (2) being an amperometric detection probe including said electrodes with a lower part (2c) for amperometric measurement,external to the housing (3) and extending axially along the elongation direction (X) opposite the upper axial end (E2), knowing that in said electrodes, one pair of electrodes (21a, 21b) allows for iodine production and another pair of electrodes (22a, 22b) allows for iodine concentration measurement, and in that the flange (4) includes, on the lower surface (S3): - at least one rim (8), preferably annular, on which the rim, stopper (2b) comes to abut 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 lock removably, 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, wherein the fixing region (RF) is integrated into a depression or hollow corresponding to a step (Dr) in the lower surface (S3), the step being delimited by a portion of lateral surface complementary in shape with the periphery of the stopper edge (2b).

3. Arrangement according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the stopper edge (2b) and the plug (6) has or carries a keying means cooperating with a complementary guidance 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, wherein the receiving interface (10) is part of a measuring head (T) movable by pivoting about a horizontal axis (A) provided in the device (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. An arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an insertion portion of the probe (2), passing through the opening (01) and possibly corresponding to the male organ (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 made in the form of an internal shoulder or rim adjacent to the opening (01) by forming a part of the lower surface (S3).

6. An arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the opening (01) is disposed 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 downward-projecting peripheral annular projection, and wherein the stop edge (2b) has a non-circular cutout by delimiting at least one portion of the edge (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, wherein the lock (9) and the stop edge (2b) co-act to block the rotation of the probe (2), the flange (4) comprising or consisting of a part which has the annular radial portion (MZ), perforated and vertically traversed by anchoring elements (MF), such that the annular radial portion (MZ) allows a fixing to secure this part to a wrap-around block including an external side wall (P3) of the housing (3), the fixing annular radial portion (MZ) surrounding the central portion of the flange (4) traversed by the agitator (11).

8. An arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the probe (2) has an annular slot or cavity (20), allowing for the attachment of a removable protective sleeve (18), the arrangement (1) including said protective sleeve (18) which: - has an open end (18a) and attachment 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 enclose the lower part (2c) of the probe (2), in an attachment 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. A 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 measuring probe (2) having electrodes, one pair of electrodes (21a, 21b) enabling the production of iodine and another pair of electrodes (22a, 22b) enabling the measurement of iodine concentration, the probe (2) being generally in the form of an elongated rod along an elongation direction (X) and having a stop edge (2b) provided between a lower amperometric measuring portion (2c) and an upper male member (2a) of the probe inserted into a female member (5) of a receiving interface (10) formed in a housing (3) of the apparatus, the female organ (5) opening from the underside of the housing (3) which is suitable for being placed above a container (30) containing a solution to be analyzed by amperometry, the process comprising the steps consisting essentially of: - after optionally covering, with 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, disengage a lock (9), by a rotational driving action, to remove it from below from a fixing region (RF) formed on the underside of the interface (10) in a flange (4) including the female part (5); - extract the previously installed probe from the housing (3), by pulling downwards using an opening (01) of the female organ (5); - insert 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 the underside of the housing (3), until it covers, by the stop edge (2b), an annular rim (8) adjacent to the opening (01), present in the flange (4), the stop edge (2b) which is rotationally fixed to an electrical connection plug provided at an upper end (E2) of the probe, then coming to rest 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 full insertion position by engaging the lock (9) in the fixing region (RF) by sandwiching the stopper edge between the rim (8) and an anti-removal part of the lock (9).

10. Amperometric measuring probe, specially adapted for use 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-like shape and extending between a first, lower end (E1), provided with a temperature measuring thermistor (23), and a second, upper end (E2), provided with an electrical connection plug (6) and having connection terminals (B1, B2) in contact with electrodes of the probe, the probe (2) having an edge stopper (2b) forming a collar in an intermediate zone between the two ends (El, E2), above a pair of iodine production electrodes (21a, 21b) and a pair of iodine concentration measurement electrodes (22a, 22b), in which at least one of the following is present: - an annular extension around an annular slot or cavity (20), the slot or cavity opening axially towards the first end (El), to allow a rotational fixing of a protective sleeve intended to surround the lower part (2c) which extends from the stopper edge (2b) to the first end (El); and. - a locking hole or notch (N) suitable for aligning with a fixing orifice (02) provided in the fixing region (RF), typically in a margin area of ​​a recess, said hole or notch (N) being radially offset outwards relative to the annular slot or cavity (20), in order to permit the upward passage of a removable lock (9) retained in the fixing orifice (02) and butting from below against the stop edge (2b), even in the presence of the protective sleeve (18); given that it is planned: - for at least one of the plug (6) and the stopper edge (2b), a non-circular perimeter with an angular indexing effect, thus forming a keying means capable of being inserted by complementary shape into a female part provided in a housing (3) of a measuring head (T), - or at least for the stop edge (2b), a perimeter of the stop edge (2b) chosen to center the position and possibly limit the possibilities of torsion when approaching a final insertion position of the male organ (2a) formed by the probe (2) to insert into the female part provided in said housing (3).

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