DEIONIZER FOR A FLUID CIRCUIT, FLUID CIRCUIT COMPRISING SUCH A DEIONIZER, METHOD FOR FILLING A DEIONIZER

Abstract

The invention relates to a deionizer (1) for a fluid circuit (50), the deionizer comprising a fluid connection base (2) and a cartridge (8) having a body (10) and a cover (20) for attachment to the body, the cover (20) having a platform (21) connected to a central well (25), the platform extending transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis (X) and closing an internal cavity (16) of the body, the central well extending inside the body (10) and having two adjacent sections. An upper section (25a) has second orifices (27a, 27b, 27c) covered by or comprising a second sieve, the second orifices being configured to allow the fluid (F) to pass from the central well into the internal cavity, and the second sieve being configured to retain a resin (A) and prevent it from escaping the internal cavity (16). A lower section (25b) is devoid of openings. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 4a

Description

Title of the invention: DEIONIZER FOR A FLUID CIRCUIT, FLUID CIRCUIT COMPRISING SUCH A DEIONIZER, METHOD FOR FILLING A DEIONIZER. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of filters, in particular ionic filters or deionizers. The invention also relates to fluid circuits equipped with such filters.

[0002] A deionizer is a specific type of filter designed to regulate the electrical conductivity of a fluid. This conductivity is regulated by controlling the ion level in the fluid. The deionizer can therefore also be called an ion filter. The nature of the fluid to be filtered is not limiting within the scope of this invention. However, as will be seen in more detail later in this description, the fluid is typically a coolant circulating in a fuel cell temperature control circuit, typically hydrogen.

[0003] The invention also relates to the technical field of filter filling processes, for example a deionizer. Technical background

[0004] A fuel cell is designed to generate an electrical voltage through a redox reaction to, for example, power the electric motor of a vehicle. It takes the form of a stack comprising a cathode and an anode separated from the cathode by an electrolyte, the fuel being reduced by oxidation at the cathode. Fuel cell systems generally comprise a stack of fuel cells in which each fuel cell is cooled by a cooling fluid. The term "temperature control circuit" refers to the fluid loop and the elements of the fuel cell system through which the cooling fluid flows and / or which contribute to cooling the fuel cells.

[0005] Fuel cell systems, particularly hydrogen fuel cells, are widespread in the automotive and transportation sectors, where an increasing number of electric vehicles are powered by such systems. The deionizer ensures that a low fluid conductivity level is maintained in the temperature control circuit. To this end, the deionizer therefore comprises a granular bed based on an ion-exchange resin.

[0006] Existing deionizers typically comprise a reservoir with an internal cavity having an inlet port and an outlet port through which the fluid enters and The ion exchange resin occupies part of the internal cavity and is located in the fluid path, allowing it to regulate the fluid's conductivity. Typically, deionizers have a tubular shape with connections to the circuit at each end. Maintenance operations on these deionizers, such as replacing the ion exchange resin, are complex and time-consuming, not to mention the difficulties posed by their size. Furthermore, because the deionizer causes a significant pressure drop, a dedicated line is typically included in the fluid circuit. In addition, the issue of regulating fluid conductivity also arises with prior art deionizers.Although continuous recirculation allows for the treatment of all the fluid, architectures have been proposed to better control the fluid distribution within the deionizer and thus ensure sufficient exchange between the fluid and the ion exchange resin. However, most existing solutions are not entirely satisfactory.

[0007] US patent 10,569,266 A1 discloses a deionizer 5 for a fuel cell cooling circuit 2. The deionizer 5 includes a base 8 for connection to the cooling circuit 2. In this respect, the base 8 includes a conduit 9 for the circulation of the coolant and a portion 10 extending perpendicularly to the conduit. The conduit 9 is configured to be mounted on a branch line 6 of the circuit. The deionizer 5 also includes a bell-shaped cartridge 15 configured to receive an ion-exchange resin 14. The cartridge 15 is adapted to be removably attached to the perpendicular portion 10 of the base. In this configuration, the cartridge can be unscrewed from the perpendicular portion 10 of the base when maintenance is required on the deionizer, thus significantly simplifying the maintenance operation.

[0008] Furthermore, the cartridge 15 comprises a cylindrical body 15a and a central well 16 in fluidic communication with an outlet orifice 12 of the coolant circulation line. The cylindrical body 15a and the central well 16 define the volume intended to receive the ion exchange resin 14. The coolant enters the cartridge 15 through a mesh disc 31a located at the bottom of the cartridge and gradually fills the cartridge 15. It then reaches the interior of the central well through the upper end of the central well and exits through the outlet orifice 12, flowing out of the cartridge through the central well 16 to the outlet orifice 12.

[0009] However, the coolant is also able to exit the cartridge 15 via a bypass channel 32 without passing through the resin 14 Ion exchanger. This system is highly complex and does not allow for precise control of the fluid residence time in the cylindrical body 15a, particularly in contact with the ion exchange resin. Indeed, this residence time depends not only on the fluid flow rate in the cartridge but also on the number and cross-section of the holes in the mesh disc 31a, the length of the central well 16, specifically the distance between the holes in the mesh disc 31a and the upper end of the central well, and the cross-section of the bypass channel 32. Therefore, if another application and / or a change of scale is envisaged, a complete redesign of the system must be carried out.

[0010] Document KR 1261950 B1 discloses a deionizer for a fuel cell cooling circuit. The deionizer comprises a body 10, a cover 20 having a cooling water outlet conduit, and a base 14 having a cooling water inlet conduit. The body 10 is fixed to the cover 20 by fastening means 11, 23, 30, and fixed to the base 14 by coupling means 167. It contains a removable cartridge 16 coupled to the base 14 by fastening means 1651. The cartridge 16 comprises a cylindrical wall 161 having a mesh and a central well 163, installed inside the cylindrical wall 161, through which the cooling water from the inlet duct 12 enters. The ion exchange resin is intended to occupy the volume between the cylindrical wall 161 and the central well 163.The central well 163 also includes a mesh formed by a plurality of openings extending along the central well 163. The diameter of the openings increases as one moves away from the area through which the cooling water is injected into the cartridge. The purpose of such an arrangement is not explained.

[0011] This device does not allow for precise control of the fluid residence time in the deionizer, particularly in contact with the ion exchange resin. This is because the openings in the central well extend along its entire length. Consequently, when the fluid passes through the openings closest to the bottom of the well, it does not remain in contact with the ion exchange resin for a sufficient duration and exits the deionizer almost directly. Furthermore, this affects the fluid flow rate at the outermost openings. Therefore, if a different application and / or a change in scale is envisaged, a complete redesign of the central well openings must be carried out to maintain proper fluid distribution within the deionizer.

[0012] If, as described so far, appropriate regulation of the fluid conductivity level can pose difficulties during the design of deionizers, particularly when manufacturers seek to implement these devices on circuits of varying dimensions, the filling of these deionizers can also This raises numerous issues. That being said, the problems related to filling do not only concern deionizers but also all filters.

[0013] In this regard, the prior art has also addressed the filling of cartridge filters. A cartridge filter is a filter comprising a fluid connection base adapted to be connected to the fluid circuit and a cartridge adapted to be removably attached to the base. The aforementioned documents describe examples of cartridge filters, in particular cartridge deionizers. This type of filter should be distinguished from fixed filters, the outer casing of which is generally made of a single piece and in which it is therefore not possible to separate a cartridge from a base. In cartridge filters, since the cartridge is removable, it is possible to fill the cartridge without having to disconnect the base from the fluid circuit.

[0014] Document JP-A-2021137771 discloses a method for filling a cartridge 5 of a deionizer-type filter. The cartridge 5 is adapted to be removably fixed in a housing 4 provided for this purpose. The cartridge 5 includes a central well 6 with which it forms a single unit. It further includes two mesh elements 7a and 8a which retain the ion exchange resin when the latter is in the cartridge. The cartridge filling process is carried out using a filling apparatus. The process includes a step in which the cartridge 5, without the mesh element 8a, is placed on a support 30 so that its apex is facing the ground. Then, a masking element 13 is placed on one end of the central well facing the filling apparatus so as to seal said end, and then the cartridge 5 is filled with ion exchange resin by means of a valve 35.Finally, the cartridge 5 is closed by placing the mesh element 8a onto supports 9 provided for this purpose.

[0015] This filling process is very complex. Indeed, the cartridge can only be filled from the bottom, that is, through the rim formed by the mesh element 8a and a cover 8 when present. In fact, to perform the filling, the mesh element 8a and the cover 8 of the cartridge must be removed to allow access to the inside of the cartridge. Simultaneously, the inlet of the central well 6 must be prevented from accessing it, and for this purpose, the central well must be covered with a masking element 13. After the cartridge 5 has been filled, it is closed with the mesh element 8a and the cover 8, which requires very high precision as the mesh element 8a and the cover 8 must be adjusted around the central well.

[0016] The invention aims to overcome at least some of the aforementioned problems. Summary of the invention

[0017] According to a first aspect, the invention provides for this purpose a deionizer for a fluid circuit, the deionizer comprising:

[0018] - a fluid connection base suitable for connection to a fluid circuit, this base includes a fluid inlet port, a fluid outlet port, and a mounting interface, and

[0019] - a cartridge comprising a body and a lid, the body having a shape general tubular along a longitudinal axis, and comprising a first closed longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end which is configured to be fixed to the base fixing interface, the body comprising an internal storage cavity suitable for storing an ion exchange resin, the cover being intended to be fixed to the second longitudinal end of the body and comprising a platform connected to a central well,

[0020] the platform extending transversely with respect to said longitudinal axis and closing the second end of the body and said internal cavity, this platform having first orifices covered by a first sieve or comprising this first sieve, the first orifices being configured to allow a fluid to pass from said internal cavity to the outlet port, and the first sieve being configured to retain the resin and prevent it from exiting the internal cavity, and

[0021] the central well extending inside the body and having a general tubular shape along the longitudinal axis, the central well having a first closed longitudinal end located on the side of the first longitudinal end of the body, and a second longitudinal end which is connected to the platform and which is fluidly connected to the inlet port, the central well having two adjacent sections between its first and second ends, an upper section located on the side of the first end and having second orifices covered by a second screen or having this second screen, the second orifices being configured to allow the fluid to pass from the central well into the internal cavity, and the second screen being configured to retain the resin and prevent it from exiting the internal cavity, and a lower section which is located on the side of the second end and which is devoid of orifices.

[0022] The deionizer according to the invention solves at least some of the problems of the prior art. Indeed, unlike prior art deionizers, the deionizer according to the invention ensures that the residence time of the fluid in the deionizer is sufficient to obtain a low level of conductivity in the fluid. In this respect, in the deionizer of the invention, there are secondary orifices only in the upper section of the central well, that is, the section located on the side of the first end. The lower section of the central well located on the side of the second end, namely the end of the central well that is fluidically connected to the inlet port, is Lacking orifices, the deionizer, when the fluid enters, cannot directly enter the internal cavity and exit through the first orifices, having only traversed a tiny portion of the ion exchange resin. Instead, the fluid is forced to reach the second orifices of the upper section, located near the first end, to pass from the central well into the internal cavity. Incidentally, the fluid is forced to traverse almost the entire length of the ion exchange resin before exiting the deionizer through the outlet port via the first orifices. This ensures a residence time of the fluid in the internal cavity that is significantly longer than that achieved in prior art deionizers, guaranteeing sufficient exchange with the ion exchange resin and, consequently, maintaining a low level of conductivity in the fluid.

[0023] Furthermore, unlike prior art deionizers, maintaining a low fluid conductivity level can be easily adjusted according to the dimensions of the deionizer according to the invention and / or the volume of fluid to be treated, based on a limited number of geometric parameters of the deionizer. Indeed, the residence time of the fluid in the internal cavity is relatively independent of the fluid flow rate and of the platform characteristics, particularly the dimensions and / or shape of the first orifices of the platform. In contrast, in prior art deionizers, these parameters significantly impact the residence time of the fluid in the internal cavity.Indeed, because there are secondary orifices close to the outlet port of these deionizers, the residence time of the fluid exiting through these orifices becomes highly dependent on the parameters of the fluid entering the deionizer and highly dependent on the geometric parameters at the deionizer outlet, particularly the outlet orifices of the internal cavity.

[0024] According to various characteristics of this deionizer according to this first aspect of the invention, which may be taken together or separately: • the second orifices have increasing diameters along the longitudinal axis, the second orifices with the highest diameters being proximal to the first end while the second orifices with the smallest diameters are distal to the first end; • the second orifices have dimensions, along the longitudinal axis, not differing by more than 10% from the dimensions, along a transverse axis, of the central well and the entry port; • the second orifices have centimeter dimensions along the longitudinal axis; • the second set of openings has dimensions of several centimeters, • The second orifices are distributed angularly around a circumference of the well central; said second orifices have a roughly ellipsoidal shape; the longitudinal dimensions of the lower section are at least equal to the longitudinal dimensions of the upper section; the first orifices are distributed uniformly around the central well, said first orifices having substantially the same diameter or the same transverse dimension; the central well comprises between four and ten initial openings; said first orifices are of a roughly circular shape; the platform comprises an upper face, circular in shape, delimited by a peripheral perimeter extending around the longitudinal axis, this peripheral perimeter having a cylindrical shape following an inner perimeter of the second longitudinal end of the cartridge, said first orifices being formed in the upper face; the deionizer further includes an evacuation cavity formed by the platform and the base, said evacuation cavity extending around the inlet port; the entry port includes a connecting channel from the entry port to the central shaft, the connecting channel being substantially straight and opening at the second longitudinal end of the central shaft; the base includes a multi-way valve for connecting the deionizer to the fluid circuit; the body includes a dome, located at its first end, this dome being configured to receive the first end of the central shaft; the body further includes an air vent hole and a plug configured to be attached to the air vent hole, the air vent hole and the plug being located at a peak of the dome; the second end of the body includes first fastening means, and the fastening interface includes second fastening means complementary to the first fastening means and capable of cooperating with said first fastening means; The platform includes first means for attaching to the cartridge, and the second end of the body includes second means for attaching to the platform. the second end of the body includes openings for loading the ion exchange resin, the cover being configured to move between a filling position, in which the attachment means are free and the openings are open so as to give access to the internal cavity for the filling, and a position of use, in which the second means of attachment are engaged with the first means of attachment and the openings are closed by the platform, by translation of the longitudinal axis.

[0025] According to the first aspect, the invention further relates to a fluid circuit, in particular for a vehicle, comprising a stack of fuel cells, a heat exchanger and a deionizer as previously described.

[0026] According to the first aspect, the invention also relates to a method for filling a deionizer, the method comprising the following steps in this order:

[0027] - to supply a cartridge and a cover for a deionizer as previously described, - place the lid in a filling position,

[0028] - fill the internal cavity with ion exchange resin via the or greenery, and

[0029] - close the cartridge using the lid.

[0030] Advantageously, closing the cartridge causes the resin in the internal cavity to settle or even compress.

[0031] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a filter for a fluid circuit, the filter comprising a cartridge having a body and a cover having a platform, the body having a generally tubular shape along a longitudinal axis, and comprising a first closed longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end which is configured to be fixed to the cover, the body having an internal storage cavity suitable for storing a filter resin, the second longitudinal end of the body comprising lateral openings for loading the filter resin, the cover being configured to move in translation along the longitudinal axis from a filling position, in which the lateral openings are open so as to allow the filling of the internal cavity, to a use position, in which the openings are closed by the platform.

[0032] The filter according to the second aspect of the invention not only allows the internal cavity to be easily filled but also allows the lid 20 to be subsequently mounted by the user simply pressing it down. In contrast, in filters according to the prior art, the internal cavity can only be loaded / filled from the bottom of the cavity, as illustrated by document JP-A-2021137771. The filter is therefore particularly easy to use. The position of the openings, namely laterally at the second longitudinal end of the body, is thus particularly well-suited to allow filling to be carried out simply and without having to perform complex and numerous manipulations to mount or remount the lid.

[0033] According to different characteristics of this filter according to this second aspect of the invention, which may be taken together or separately: • the platform is connected to a central shaft having a general tubular shape along the longitudinal axis, this central shaft extending inside the body; • said filter is a deionizer; • the first notches extend from a first annular rim on an internal surface of the body. • The cartridge includes two diametrically opposed openings.

[0034] The filter according to the invention may include one or more of the above-listed features relating to the deionizer.

[0035] According to the second aspect, the invention relates to a method for filling a filter, the method comprising the following steps in this order:

[0036] - provide a filter as previously described,

[0037] - place the lid in the filling position,

[0038] - fill the internal cavity of the filter resin through the openings lateral, and

[0039] - close the cartridge using the lid.

[0040] According to various characteristics of this filling process according to the second aspect of the invention, which may be taken together or separately: • the platform includes first means for attaching to the cartridge and the second end of the body includes second means for attaching to the platform, the first and second means for attaching being free when the lid is in the filling position, the second means for attaching being engaged with the first means for attaching when the lid is in the operating position. • One of the elements chosen from the first and second means of attachment includes protrusions, and the other of these elements includes notches, the protrusions being configured to cooperate by elastic snap-fit ​​with the notches to secure the elements together. • the first protrusions are respectively separated from the second protrusions by first spaces, the attachment means comprising tabs adapted to fit into the spaces so as to lock the cover longitudinally with respect to the body when the cover is in the position of use. • the lid includes at least one pattern for identifying the filling position and the use position, this pattern being arranged so that, in the filling position, the pattern is fully visible, and in the use position, the pattern is partially visible; • the platform includes a second annular rim projecting from a external surface of the platform such that in the filling position, the second annular rim is in a butt against the first annular rim. Brief description of the figures

[0041] Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent in the following description, made with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0042] - Figures 1a and 1b illustrate fluid circuits respectively according to a first ([Fig. 1a]) and a second (Fig. 1b) embodiment of the invention,

[0043] - Figures 2a and 2b are perspective views of a deionizer according to a first embodiment of the invention in assembled position ([Fig.2a]) and in disassembled position ([Fig.2b]),

[0044] - Figures 3a and 3b are perspective views of a deionizer according to a second embodiment of the invention in assembled position ([Fig.3a]) and in disassembled position ([Fig.3b]),

[0045] - Figures 4a and 4b are longitudinal cross-sectional views of a deionizer according to a method of embodiment of the invention,

[0046] - [Fig. 4c] is a top view of a cover for a deionizer as illustrated in figures 4a and 4b;

[0047] - Figures 5a to 5c are respectively perspective and cross-sectional views of a deionizer cartridge according to the first embodiment at the various stages of a cartridge filling process,

[0048] - Figure 6 illustrates the different stages of implementation of a rem pleating of the cartridge of a deionizer according to an embodiment of the invention. Detailed description of the invention

[0049] In this description, the terms "upper" and "lower" are not limiting and serve simply to better understand the invention with reference to the illustrated figures. The use of the term "lower" simply indicates that the element in question is closer to a lower edge of the filter compared to an element to which the term "upper" is associated, the lower edge being the one closest to the filter ports in the illustrated figures.

[0050] We will now describe the invention with reference to the attached figures.

[0051] Figures 1a and 1b illustrate fluid circuits 50 according to an embodiment of the invention. In the illustrated embodiments, the fluid circuit 50 is a cooling circuit for vehicles, for example automobiles, powered by a stack of fuel cells. In this respect, the fluid circuits 50 illustrated basically comprise a stack 51 of fuel cells, a heat exchanger 54, and a filter 1'. The schematic arrows on the fluid circuit 50 designates the direction of flow of fluid F within the fluid circuit 50.

[0052] The operation of the fuel cell stack 51 was presented in the introduction and is not repeated here. Furthermore, as already mentioned, any other type of fluid circuit 50 could be used. The heat exchanger 54 has the role of exchanging heat with the cooling fluid F, after the latter has passed through the stack 51, and of distributing the heat absorbed by said cooling fluid F throughout the rest of the vehicle, primarily for heating and / or air conditioning and / or dehumidification of the passenger compartment air. When passing through the stack 51, the cooling fluid F becomes charged with ions, and it is necessary to regulate its conductivity to prevent premature degradation of the fluid circuit 50. According to a first aspect of the invention, the filter 1' is a deionizer that ensures this conductivity control.

[0053] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1a], the elements of the fluid circuit 50 are connected in parallel. In addition to the elements already mentioned, the fluid circuit comprises a valve 52 and a conventional T-connector 53. The fluid circuit 50 includes a first branch containing the heat exchanger 54 and a second branch, parallel to the first branch, containing the deionizer 1. The T-connector 53 distributes the cooling fluid F exiting the stack 51 and the deionizer to the heat exchanger 54, while the valve 52 distributes the cooling fluid F exiting the heat exchanger 54 to the stack 51 and the deionizer 1. Thus, the process by which cooling is achieved in the circuit is independent of the process by which the conductivity of the cooling fluid F is regulated.Under these conditions, if work needs to be carried out on the deionizer 1, the cooling loop of the cooling fluid F is not affected. Similarly, if work needs to be carried out on the heat exchanger 54, the conductivity regulation loop of the cooling fluid F is not affected.

[0054] However, this fluid circuit 50 ([Fig. 1a]) is more complex to manufacture and requires a larger number of components. Thus, in the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1b], the components of the fluid circuit 50 are connected in series. These include the stack 52, the heat exchanger 54, and the deionizer 1. In this fluid circuit 50, the deionizer 1 is equipped with a multi-way valve 6, which allows it to manage the distribution of the cooling fluid F within the circuit. We will return to this point in the description of Figures 3a and 3b. The advantage of such a configuration is that it simplifies the circuit and its manufacture, which is possible because there is no longer an isolated valve 52, parallel branches, or a T-connector 53.

[0055] Such fluid circuits 50 are used to better understand the invention; however, the fluid circuit 50 according to the invention is not limited to a cooling circuit. A fluid circuit 50 for motor vehicles, and even less so a cooling circuit 50 comprising a stack of fuel cells. Indeed, the fluid circuit 50 according to the invention finds application in all fields requiring filtration by means of a filter 1' according to the invention. With regard to the deionizer 1, which will be described in more detail later and which constitutes a first aspect of the invention, it should be noted that it can, for example, be used in any fluid circuit 50 requiring regulation of the conductivity of a fluid. The fluid circuit 50 can therefore be any water deionization circuit, whether that water is intended for laboratory use, industrial use, or general consumption.

[0056] Figures 2a and 2b illustrate a deionizer 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention suitable for use in a fluid circuit 50 intended to regulate the conductivity of a fluid, such as, for example, those seen in Figs. 1a and 1b. The deionizer 1 is a cartridge deionizer, that is to say, a deionizer comprising a fluid connection base 2 suitable for connection to the fluid circuit 50 and a cartridge 8 suitable for removably attaching to the base 2. When maintenance is required on the deionizer 1, the cartridge 8 can be removed from the base 2 without having to disassemble the entire deionizer 1, that is to say, the deionizer with the base 2. Incidentally, the base 2 can be permanently installed in the fluid circuit 50.

[0057] In this respect, the base 2 has a generally tubular shape along a longitudinal axis X. It includes a fluid inlet port 3 and a fluid outlet port 4, allowing the fluid F to enter and exit the deionizer 1, respectively. It should be noted that the inlet port 3 and the outlet port 4 could very well be located on the cartridge 8 instead of on the base 2. However, in this case, there would no longer be any advantage to using a cartridge 8 separate from a base 2 and detachable from this base, for the reasons already mentioned. In this case, it would no longer be a cartridge deionizer 1 but a fixed deionizer 1.

[0058] Let us return to the fluid circuit 50 exemplified in [Fig. 1a]. The deionizer 1 could be implemented therein by fluidically connecting the inlet port 3 to the valve 52 and fluidly connecting the outlet port 4 to the T-connector 53. If the deionizer 1 includes an integrated multi-way valve 6, as illustrated in Figures 4a and 4b, it can be installed in the fluid circuit 50 by connecting the inlet port 3 to the heat exchanger 54 and connecting the outlet port to the stack 51. We will return to this later. That being said, as already mentioned, the deionizer 1 can be installed on any other conductivity control circuit. The base 2 further includes a mounting interface 5 to which the cartridge 8 can be attached. This mounting interface 5, which located near an upper edge of the base, will be better described later.

[0059] Figures 3a and 3b illustrate a deionizer 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention suitable for use in a fluid circuit 50 intended to regulate the conductivity of a fluid. Unlike the deionizer 1 of the first embodiment, this deionizer 1 includes a multi-way valve 6 which, in particular, manages the distribution of the fluid F through the cartridge 8 while ensuring continuity of fluid circulation within the fluid circuit 50. Furthermore, during maintenance operations for replacing the cartridge 8, the multi-way valve 6 allows the supply of fluid F to the cartridge 8 to be shut off, thus avoiding a complete purging of the fluid circuit 50. Incidentally, the integration of the multi-way valve 6 into the base eliminates the need for pipes, connections, and components of the second parallel branch. In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.[la], this includes valve 52, the pipes of the second parallel branch, and the T-connector 53.

[0060] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 3a and 3b, the multiport valve 6 is integrated into the base 2 of the deionizer. More specifically, the multiport valve 6 is fixed to a wall of the base 2. It comprises a drive mechanism (not visible) and an actuator 6a that controls the drive mechanism to open or close, as needed, the access path to the deionizer 1. In this respect, the drive mechanism is connected to a valve (not visible) that is able to move to selectively open and close an access path connecting the inlet port 3 and the outlet port 4. Preferably, the multiport valve 6, the inlet port 3, and the outlet port 4 are therefore arranged in a T-configuration, which simplifies the opening and closing of the access path. We will return to this later in order to better describe the arrangement of these elements in relation to the internal elements of deionizer 1.

[0061] Unless otherwise indicated, the entire description that follows applies equally to deionizers, for example according to the two embodiments previously described.

[0062] The cartridge 8 comprises a body 10 and a cover 20 (visible in Figs. 4a and 4b). The body 10 has a generally tubular shape along the longitudinal axis X. The body 10 includes a first closed longitudinal end 11 and a second longitudinal end 12 which is configured to be fixed to the base mounting interface 5. Since the first longitudinal end 11 is closed, the fluid F that enters the deionizer 1 can only exit by following a path leading to the outlet port 4. The second longitudinal end 12 may advantageously include first fastening means 14 adapted to cooperate with complementary second fastening means 5a of the mounting interface 5 in order to mount the cartridge 8 on base 2 in a removable manner.

[0063] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the first fastening means 14 consist of a thread, for example helical in shape, formed on an external surface of the cartridge 8, while the second means 5a consist of a complementary thread formed on an internal surface of the base 2. This allows the cartridge 8 to be mounted and dismounted from the base 2 by screwing and unscrewing, respectively. Mounting and dismounting the cartridge is thus greatly facilitated. The deionizer 1 according to the invention is not limited to such fastening means, and other fastening means allowing the cartridge 8 to be mounted removably on the base 2 may be considered by those skilled in the art without prejudice to the invention.

[0064] In this regard, as can be better seen in Figures 2b and 3b, the deionizer 1 may also include a sealing gasket 40 to ensure its watertightness at the mounting interface 5. The second longitudinal end 12 includes an annular stop 12b near which the sealing gasket 40 is positioned. The mounting interface, for its part, includes an upper rim 5b designed to bear tightly against the annular stop 12b when the cartridge 8 is mounted on the base 2, this bearing being sealed by the gasket 40.

[0065] Furthermore, as can be seen in [Fig. 2a] to [Fig. 3b], the first longitudinal end 11 may advantageously comprise a polyhedral profile 19 configured to be gripped by a suitable tool. The dimensions and shape of the profile 19 may be adapted to standard tools or, alternatively, if the dimensions and shape of the profile 19 are not suitable for standard tools, the tool may be adapted for such use.

[0066] The body 10 further comprises an internal storage cavity 16 suitable for storing an ion-exchange resin A. The ion-exchange resin A is an active material with which the fluid F can perform ion exchanges to regulate its conductivity. The ion-exchange resin A is advantageously in the form of beads or granules, generally with a diameter between 0.2 mm and 2 mm. Preferably, the resin A is made of polypropylene random copolymer (PPR) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). These materials allow for sufficient ion exchange without releasing a quantity of ions that would degrade or negate the deionizing effect. However, PPS is preferred to PPR because it exhibits better chemical stability. That being said, it is less flexible, i.e., less deformable, than PPR and more expensive.

[0067] Figures 4a and 4b, which are longitudinal cross-sectional views along the longitudinal axis X of a deionizer 1 according to the first embodiment, allow for a better view of the internal cavity 16 and lid 20. However, it should be noted that the cartridge 8 and lid 20, as described below in relation to this first embodiment, are identical in the second embodiment. Indeed, only the base 2 and the arrangement of its elements relative to the cartridge 8 and lid 20 may differ between the first and second embodiments.

[0068] As illustrated, the internal cavity 16 occupies a large part of the internal volume of the cartridge 8, which means that a large volume of ion-exchange resin A can be stored in the cartridge. In Figures 4a and 4b, the deionizer 1 is shown in the assembled position, i.e., the cover 20 is attached to the second longitudinal end 12 of the body and the cartridge 8 is mounted on the base 2. The cover 20 has a central well 25 and a platform 21 connected to this central well 25 by a joint 20a. The platform 21 and the central well 25 are described in more detail below. It should be noted that, in the illustrated embodiments, the deionizer 1 has dimensions in centimeters. That being said, it can, depending on its intended use, have larger dimensions.

[0069] In the assembled position, the platform 21 extends transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis X and closes the second end 12 of the body and the internal cavity 16. Indeed, the internal cavity 16 is closed on one side by the first longitudinal end 11 (which is always closed), and on the other side by the platform 21, which obstructs the second longitudinal end 12 (closed when the deionizer 1 is in the assembled position) and thus forms a physical boundary of the internal cavity. In the illustrated embodiment, the platform 21 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The platform 21 comprises an upper face 21a delimited by a peripheral rim 21b extending around the longitudinal axis X. As can be better seen in the top view illustrated in Figure 3c, the upper face 21a has a circular shape and is centered around the longitudinal axis X.The peripheral rim 21b has a cylindrical shape conforming to an inner contour of the second longitudinal end 12 of the cartridge. In this respect, the dimensions of the platform 21 can be appropriately chosen to allow for a precise fit of the cover 20 within the cartridge 8 once the cover 20 is mounted in the cartridge. Thus, when the cover 20 is mounted in the cartridge 8, there is little or no play between the cover and the cartridge.

[0070] The platform 21 includes first orifices 23 configured to allow the fluid F to pass from said internal cavity 16 to the outlet port 4. These first orifices 23 are more clearly visible in [Fig. 4c]. In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 4c], the first orifices 23 are distributed uniformly around the central well 25, and have substantially the same diameter or the same transverse dimension, which promotes A homogeneous distribution of the fluid flow F from the internal cavity 16 to the outlet port 4 is achieved. The first orifices 23 are advantageously formed in the upper face 21a of the platform. Although in [Fig. 4c] there are six first orifices 23, at least four, and preferably up to ten, can be provided on the platform. This represents a good compromise between obtaining a sufficient flow velocity and simplifying the manufacturing process of the platform 21. The diameter of these first orifices 23 should then be adjusted according to their number. Preferably, the higher the number, the smaller the diameter of the first orifices 23.In this regard, although the first orifices 23 have a circular shape in the illustrated embodiments, they can have any other shape as long as they allow the fluid F to pass from the internal cavity 16 to the outlet port.

[0071] As also visible in [Fig. 4c], the first orifices 23 are covered by a first sieve 23a or include the first sieve 23a. The first sieve 23a is configured to retain the ion-exchange resin A and prevent it from exiting the internal cavity 16, and in particular from entering an evacuation cavity 24 formed by the platform 21 and the base 2. Indeed, in practice, the first orifices 23 have significantly larger dimensions than the beads composing the ion-exchange resin A; that is to say, each orifice has dimensions at least one order of magnitude larger than those of a bead of the resin A. Without the first sieve 23a, the beads would therefore be evacuated towards the outlet port 4 under the effect of gravity and the fluid F passing through the deionizer 1.In this respect, and preferably, the first sieve 23a comprises openings whose maximum dimensions are strictly smaller than the dimensions of the beads composing the ion exchange resin A. Preferably, the first sieve can be made of the same material as the rest of the cover 20, which facilitates its recycling.

[0072] At this stage, it should be emphasized that the previously mentioned drainage cavity 24 does not serve solely as a communication channel for the fluid F exiting the internal cavity 16. Indeed, the drainage cavity 24 extends around the inlet port 3, and more precisely around a channel 7 of the inlet port. This channel 7 occupies a substantially central position within the drainage cavity 24 and will be described in more detail later in this description. It should also be noted that the drainage cavity 24 is bounded longitudinally by the upper face 21a of the platform and by a lower (unreferenced) edge of the base 2. It is also bounded laterally by the peripheral edge 21b of the platform.

[0073] The central well 25 has a generally tubular shape along the longitudinal axis X. It extends inside the body 10 when the cover 20 is placed on the cartridge 8. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, it extends from a central area of ​​the upper face 21a of the platform ([Fig.4c]) so that when the deionizer 1 is in assembled position ([Fig.4a] and 4b), the central well 25 occupies a central position inside the internal cavity 16. Thus, the dynamics of fluid distribution F in the internal cavity 16 depend very little on the geometry of the internal cavity 16 itself since the flow conditions are uniform around the central well 25.

[0074] Furthermore, the central well 25 has a first closed longitudinal end 28 located on the side of the first longitudinal end 11 of the body. In practice, the first longitudinal end 28 of the central well is closed by the first longitudinal end 11 of the body. Indeed, according to a preferred embodiment, the first longitudinal end 11 of the body comprises a dome 13 configured to receive the first end 28 of the central well. The dome 13 includes a top and, furthermore, an air vent 13a and a plug 13b located at its top. The air vent 13a serves to vent the internal cavity 16, that is, to evacuate excess air contained in the internal cavity 16 when the cartridge is filled. The cap 13b is configured to be fixed to the air bleed hole 13a so that this air bleed hole 13a is always closed unless a bleed is required when filling the cartridge 8.The plug 13b is separated from the air vent hole 13a only when the internal cavity 16 is purged. Thus, when the deionizer 1 is in the assembled position, as illustrated in the figures, the first longitudinal end 11 of the body is always closed. Concurrently, as the first longitudinal end 28 of the central well is received into the dome 13, it is also closed by the first longitudinal end 11 of the body. It should be noted that the dome 13 is not mandatory and that the first longitudinal end 11 could just as easily be closed by a simple wall conforming to the contours of the first longitudinal end 28 of the central well.

[0075] The central well 25 further comprises a second longitudinal end 29 which is connected to the platform 21 and is fluidically connected to the inlet port 3. In the embodiments illustrated in the figures, the second longitudinal end 29 is connected to the platform 21 via the joint 20a connecting the platform 21 and the central well 25. As previously mentioned and visible in the figures, the inlet port 3 comprises the connecting channel 7. This connecting channel 7 extends to the central well 25. More precisely, it opens directly at the second longitudinal end 29 of the central well when the deionizer 1 is in the assembled position, thus creating a path for the fluid F arriving through the inlet port 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting channel 7 is substantially straight. However, it can have any other suitable shape depending on the position of the inlet port 3.This connecting channel 7 may, for example, present a . L-shaped for a deionizer 1 according to the second embodiment (Figs. 3a and 3b).

[0076] In this regard, as in the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 4a and 4b, the central well 25 and the connecting channel 7 are aligned along the longitudinal axis X, i.e., the central well 25 extends in line with the inlet port 3, parallel to the connecting channel 7 and in line with said connecting channel 7. When the fluid F moves in the inlet port 3 and in the central well, it does not experience any slowing down other than that possibly caused by its own weight. Preferably, the joint 20a follows the contours of one end of the proximal connecting channel of the second longitudinal end 29 of the central well when the deionizer 1 is in the assembled position. This stabilizes the connection between the central well 25 and the inlet port 3.

[0077] In the deionizer 1 according to the second embodiment, this is not the case since the inlet port 3 is not aligned with the central well 25. The inlet port 3 is in fact aligned with the outlet port 4 and, possibly, the valve of the multiport valve 6. The connecting channel 7 has an L-shape, which is likely to slightly slow down the fluid F. This should therefore be taken into account when the fluid flow rate is set.

[0078] According to a first aspect of the invention, the central well 25 comprises two adjacent sections 25a, 25b (visible in [Fig. 5b]) between its first 28 and second 29 ends. According to the first aspect of the invention, an upper section 25a is located side by side of the first longitudinal end 28 and has second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c covered by a second sieve or comprising this second sieve. The second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c are configured to allow the fluid F to pass from the central well 25 into the internal cavity 16, and the second sieve is configured to retain the ion-exchange resin A and prevent it from exiting the internal cavity 16 to reach the interior of the central well 25. Also according to the first aspect of the invention, a lower section 25b is located on the side of the second end 29 and is without orifices. With reference more specifically to the [Fig.4b], when the fluid F enters the deionizer 1, it successively passes through the fluid inlet port 3, the lower section 25b, the upper section 25a, the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c, the ion exchange resin A, the first orifices 23, the platform 21 - in particular the evacuation cavity 24 formed by the platform 21 and the base 2 - and the outlet port 4. .

[0079] In the deionizer 1 according to the first aspect of the invention, the central well 25 includes second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c only at its upper section 25a, namely the section located on the side of the first longitudinal end 11 of the body. Thus, when the fluid F enters the deionizer 1, it cannot directly enter the internal cavity 16. It is, in fact, forced to travel the entire length of the The lower section 25b passes through the ion exchange resin A before reaching the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c. Therefore, it can only traverse a tiny portion of the resin A and is instead forced to reach the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c of the upper section 25a to pass from the central well 25 into the internal cavity 16. The fluid F is thus forced to traverse almost the entire height of the ion exchange resin A before exiting the deionizer 1 through the outlet port 4, passing through the first orifices 23. The residence time of the fluid F in the internal cavity 16 is therefore significantly longer compared to prior art deionizers, ensuring sufficient exchange with the resin A to maintain a low conductivity level in the fluid.

[0080] Furthermore, unlike prior art deionizers, maintaining a low fluid conductivity level can be easily adjusted with the deionizer 1 according to the invention, depending on the volume of fluid to be treated, based on a limited number of geometric parameters of the deionizer 1. Indeed, the residence time of the fluid F in the internal cavity 16 is relatively independent of the fluid flow rate and only slightly, if at all, dependent on the characteristics of the platform 21, particularly the dimensions and / or shape of the first orifices 23 of the platform. Conversely, in prior art deionizers, these parameters significantly impact the residence time of the fluid in the internal cavity 16.Indeed, because there are secondary orifices close to the outlet port of these deionizers, the residence time of the fluid exiting through these orifices becomes highly dependent on the parameters of the fluid entering the deionizer and highly dependent on the geometric parameters at the deionizer outlet, particularly the outlet orifices of the internal cavity.

[0081] As previously mentioned, the upper section 25a comprises the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c are distributed both longitudinally, i.e., along the longitudinal axis X, and angularly around the entire circumference of the central well 25. There are therefore a plurality of second orifices, respectively 27a, 27b, and 27c, along the longitudinal axis X, and, at a given height, there are also a plurality of second orifices around the entire circumference of the central well 25, forming annular rows of second orifices. Thus, the upper section 25a comprises a plurality of secondary orifices 27a distal to the first longitudinal end 28, which are located at the same height. Similarly, the upper section 25a includes a plurality of secondary orifices 27c proximal to the first longitudinal end 28 which are located at the same height.The same applies to all intermediate second orifices 27b located between the distal second orifices 27a and the proximal second orifices 27c of the first longitudinal end 28 of the central well.

[0082] In this regard, if, as illustrated in the figures, the upper section 25a does not include that an annular row of intermediate second orifices 27b - and therefore three annular rows of second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c, the upper section 25a could include more annular rows of intermediate second orifices 27b, 27b' (not illustrated), 27b” (not illustrated), etc. if the dimensions of the deionizer 1 were to be enlarged.

[0083] As also illustrated in Figures 4a and 4b, the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c have a substantially ellipsoidal shape. However, the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c could have any other desired shape. Within the scope of the invention, it is only important that the second orifices be capable of allowing the fluid F to pass from the central well 25 into the internal cavity 16. The same applies to the dimensions of said second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c. That being said, it is advantageous that the dimensions of the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c, along the longitudinal axis X, not differ by more than 10% from the dimensions, along a transverse axis Y, of the central well 25 and the inlet port 3.In other words, it is advantageous that the respective diameters of the longitudinal sections of the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c, the cross-section of the central well 25, and the cross-section of the inlet port 3 do not differ by more than 10%. Indeed, this avoids creating geometric singularities and generating abrupt changes in the velocities and behavior of the fluid F inside the deionizer 1. Preferably, the respective diameters of the longitudinal sections of the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c, the cross-section of the central well 25, and the cross-section of the inlet port 3 are in centimeter dimensions.

[0084] In this regard, according to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the deionizer 1, the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c have diameters db, d2, d3 increasing along the longitudinal axis X, the second orifices 27c proximal to the first longitudinal end 28 having the largest diameters d3, while the second orifices 27a distal to the first longitudinal end 28 have the smallest diameters di. In other words, the diameter of the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c increases along the longitudinal axis X in the direction of fluid flow F. Put another way, the further the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c are from the second longitudinal end 29, the larger their diameter.This configuration allows for a higher fluid flow rate in an area of ​​the internal cavity 16 that is furthest from the first orifices 23, and a lower fluid flow rate in an area of ​​the internal cavity 16 that is closer to the first orifices 23 than the area traversed by the higher fluid flow rate. Thus, the fluid F entering the internal cavity 16 through the second orifices 27a distal to the first longitudinal end 28 – closer to the inlet port 3 – has a sufficiently low velocity upon entering the internal cavity 16 to allow time for exchanges with the resin A. ion exchanger. Simultaneously, the fluid F which enters the internal cavity 16 through the second proximal orifices 27c of the first longitudinal end 28 - further from the inlet port - has a sufficiently high velocity to reach said second proximal orifices 27c and to carry out sufficient exchanges with the ion exchanger resin A.

[0085] As already mentioned, the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c are covered by a second sieve (not shown). The second sieve is configured to retain the ion-exchange resin A and prevent it from escaping the internal cavity 16, and in particular from entering the central well 25. Like the first orifices 23, and in practice, the second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c have dimensions significantly larger than those of the beads composing the ion-exchange resin A; that is to say, each second orifice 27a, 27b, 27c has dimensions at least an order of magnitude larger than those of the beads of resin A. Without the second sieve, the beads could reach the central well 25 and considerably reduce the flow rate of the fluid F as it passes through the deionizer 1.In this respect, and preferably, the second sieve comprises openings whose maximum dimensions are strictly smaller than the dimensions of the beads composing the ion exchange resin A. Preferably, the second sieve can be made of the same material as the rest of the cover 20, which facilitates its recycling.

[0086] According to an advantageous embodiment, the longitudinal dimensions of the lower section 25b are at least equal to the longitudinal dimensions of the upper section 25a. Thus, even if the upper section 25a and the lower section 25b have similar dimensions, this means that the fluid F is forced to reach half the height of the internal cavity 16 before it can enter said internal cavity. When, for example, the filling rate of the internal cavity 16 by the ion-exchange resin A is greater than 80%, it is even more advantageous for the lower section 25b to have longitudinal dimensions at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, greater than the longitudinal dimensions of the upper section 25a. Since the lower section 25b is longer than the upper section 25a, the fluid F is forced to travel a greater distance in the central well 25 before it can enter the internal cavity 16.Whatever configuration is chosen, it is necessary to take into account, where applicable, the footprint of the first longitudinal end 11 of the body on the first longitudinal end 28 of the central well, which, as a reminder, preferentially follows its contours.

[0087] With reference now to Figures 5a to 5c, we will describe the means of assembling the cartridge 8 and the cover 20, as well as the various assembly steps. Note that the mounting of the cartridge onto the base 2 has already been described.

[0088] According to an embodiment illustrated in the figures, the platform 21 includes, in this respect, first attachment means 22 adapted to cooperate with complementary second attachment means 17 for the cartridge 8 so as to allow the cover 20 to be fixed in the cartridge 8. Also according to this embodiment, the first attachment means 22 of the platform consist of protrusions 22a, 22c separated by a first gap 22b. The second attachment means 17 of the cartridge consist, for their part, of notches 17a, 17c and a tab 17b. The second attachment means 17 are provided at the second longitudinal end 12 of the body.

[0089] To attach the cover 20 to the cartridge 8, the cover 20 is inserted into the cartridge 8 by pushing the central well 25 into the internal cavity 16. When the platform 21 is near the second longitudinal end 12 of the body, the user must apply slight pressure to the cover 20 so that the first attachment means 22 clip onto the second attachment means 17. During clipping, a first protrusion 22a engages in a first notch 17a, while simultaneously a second protrusion 22c engages in a second notch 17c, and the tab 17b engages in the first space 22b. The interaction of these first attachment means 22 with these second attachment means 17 ensures a reliable attachment of the cover 20 to the cartridge 8.

[0090] Furthermore, according to an unillustrated embodiment, the first and second attachment means could be reversed; that is, the first attachment means could consist of notches and a tab, while the second attachment means could consist of protrusions separated by a first gap. Other means for attaching the cover 20 to the cartridge 8 could be considered without prejudice to the deionizer 1 according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0091] At the end of the clipping step, a lower annular rim 21b of the cover rests on an annular rim 12a of the second longitudinal end 12. In addition, the first longitudinal end 28 of the central well rests on the first longitudinal end 11 of the body.

[0092] It should be noted that when the attachment of the cover 20 to the cartridge 8 is not associated with filling the cartridge 8, or at least when the internal cavity 16 is empty, these steps can be carried out without the cartridge 8 being turned upside down, as can be seen in the figures. In other words, it is not necessary to orient the cartridge 8, as illustrated in the figures, if the internal cavity 16 is empty or must be held empty temporarily.

[0093] In this regard, we will now describe the different steps for filling a deionizer 1 as previously described, in particular a cartridge 8 of such a deionizer.

[0094] In this regard, and as a preliminary matter, it is particularly advantageous that the second longitudinal end 12 of the body includes lateral openings 15 for loading the ion-exchange resin A. These lateral openings 15 therefore preferably have dimensions suitable for introducing the beads forming the ion-exchange resin A. As a reminder, the resin beads generally have dimensions between 0.2 mm and 2 mm. To facilitate the loading of the beads, the loading openings 15 should therefore have dimensions at least 3 to 7 times larger than the dimensions of a single bead. It is also advantageous that the platform 21 and the cover 8 include, respectively, the first means 22 for attaching to the cover 8 and the second means 17 for attaching to the platform 21 so as to be able to be fixed.

[0095] In a first step 110, a cartridge 8 and a cover 20 are provided as described above.

[0096] In a second step 120, the cover 20 is placed in a position, called the filling position, in which the second 17 gripping means are free and the lateral openings 15 are open to provide access to the internal cavity 16 for filling. The second 17 gripping means are said to be "free" as opposed to a situation in which they are engaged with the first 22 gripping means. In this step, it is preferable, initially, to position the cartridge 8 vertically so that the first longitudinal end 11 of the body is oriented towards the ground, and thus is closer to the ground than the other parts of the cartridge. Then, the cover 20 is positioned so that the central well 25 is inside the internal cavity 16, ensuring that the second 17 gripping means are free and the lateral openings 15 are open. This position is more clearly shown in [Fig. 5a].This position is natural because the protrusions extend radially over the annular rim 12a. In this respect, the platform 21 can advantageously be dimensioned so that the annular edge 12a retains the protrusion 22a when no pressure is exerted on the cover 20, i.e. when the cover 20 is simply placed on the cartridge 8.

[0097] In a third step 130, the internal cavity 16 is filled with ion-exchange resin A through the lateral openings 15 as illustrated in [Fig. 5b]. During this step, it is preferable to hold the cartridge 8 in a vertical position in which the first longitudinal end 11 of the body is oriented towards the ground. Furthermore, preferably, the amount of resin A to be loaded is predetermined so that the amount of resin A is appropriate to allow control of the conductivity of the fluid F, that the amount of resin A is appropriate for compact retention of the beads, and that the amount of resin A loaded does not prevent the attaching cover 20 to cartridge 8 in the next step.

[0098] In a fourth step, the cartridge 8 is closed by means of the lid 20. In this respect, a simple pressing movement on the lid 20 by translation along the longitudinal axis X allows the lid 20 to cooperate with the cartridge 8. Advantageously, the closing of the cartridge 8 causes a settling or even a compression of the ion exchange resin A in the internal cavity 16. This ensures a compact retention of the beads of resin A. During this step, and as already seen previously, the first protrusion 22a fits into the first notch 17a, while simultaneously the second protrusion 22c fits into the second notch 17c and the tab 17b fits into the first space 22b.The cover 20 is then in a position, called the operating position, in which the second fastening means 17 are engaged with the first fastening means 22 and in which the lateral openings 15 are closed by the platform 21.

[0099] According to a second aspect, the invention further relates to a filter 1' for a fluid circuit 50. Examples of fluid circuits 50 were described at the beginning of the detailed description and are not repeated here. In the remainder of this description, we describe the filter more precisely according to the second aspect of the invention. The filter 1' can be any type of filter well known to those skilled in the art, for example, a particulate filter (bacteria, contaminants, etc.) for treating water used for aquatic or recreational activities, industrial applications, etc. The filter resin A' can be any commercially available form. Preferably, the filter resin A' is in the form of beads with dimensions between 0.2 and 2 mm.

[0100] The filter 1' comprises a cartridge 8 having a body 10 and a cover 20.

[0101] The body 10 has a general tubular shape along a longitudinal axis X. The body 10 comprises a first closed longitudinal end 11 and a second longitudinal end 12 configured to be fixed to the cover 20. According to one embodiment of the filter 1', the filter 1' is a fixed filter. In this case, the body 10 comprises a fluid inlet port 3 and a fluid outlet port 4, said inlet and outlet ports being directly connected to the fluid circuit 50. Alternatively, the filter 1' is a cartridge filter. In this respect, the filter 1' then comprises a fluid connection base 2 to the fluid circuit, this base 2 having the fluid inlet port 3 and the fluid outlet port 4. In this embodiment, the cartridge 8 is configured to be removably fixed to the base 2. In this respect, the base 2 may include a fixing interface 5, located near an upper edge of said base, to which the cartridge 8 can be fixed.The description relating to the first aspect of the invention describes in detail how the cartridge 8 can be fixed to the base 2 by means of such a . interface 5 for fixing.

[0102] The body 10 includes an internal storage cavity 16 suitable for storing a filter resin A' in an appropriate quantity to perform exchanges with the fluid F as it passes through the cartridge 8. The filter resin A' is not limited to a particular type of resin. It is adapted to the intended use of the filter 1' according to this second aspect of the invention. By way of example, the filter resin A' may be made of one or more decontaminating, bactericidal, virucidal, etc., materials. According to a particular embodiment, the filter resin A' is an ion-exchange resin and is therefore suitable for a deionizer-type filter 1'.

[0103] The cover 20 is intended to be attached to the second longitudinal end 12 of the body. In this respect, as will be seen later, the cover 20 and the cartridge 8 may advantageously include additional attachment means. The cover 20 has a platform 21 which allows the second longitudinal end 12 of the body, and with it the internal cavity 16, to be opened and closed alternately, since the other end, namely the first longitudinal end 11 of the body, is closed. In a preferred embodiment, the platform 21 extends transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis X. It comprises an upper face 21a delimited by a peripheral rim 21b extending around the longitudinal axis X. Preferably, the upper face 21a has a circular shape and is centered around the longitudinal axis X.Advantageously, the peripheral rim 21b has a shape that follows an inner contour of the cartridge, allowing it to be as close as possible to the cartridge 8, or even to be in airtight contact with the cartridge 8. In this respect, it is advantageous that the dimensions of the platform 21 be chosen appropriately to allow precise fitting of the cover 20 in the cartridge 8 once this cover 20 is mounted in the cartridge.

[0104] According to a preferred embodiment, the cover 20 also plays a role in distributing the fluid F through the filter 1' and the fluid circuit 50. In this regard, the platform 21 may include first orifices 23 configured to allow the fluid F to pass from said internal cavity 16 to the outlet port 4. These first orifices 23 are not described in detail, and reference is made to the description relating to the first aspect of the invention, which presents other possible features of these first orifices 23. Furthermore, still with regard to the distribution of the fluid F in the filter 1' and the fluid circuit 50, the platform 21 may be connected to a central well 25 having a generally tubular shape along the longitudinal axis X, which extends inside the body 10.The central well 25 may advantageously include second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c to allow the fluid F to pass from this central well 25 into the internal cavity 16. These second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c are not described. in detail and reference is made to the description relating to the first aspect of the invention which presents other possible characteristics of these second orifices.

[0105] According to the second aspect of the invention, the second longitudinal end 12 of the body comprises lateral openings 15 of the filter resin A'. The lateral openings 15 serve to load the filter resin A' into the internal cavity 16. These lateral openings 15 therefore have dimensions suitable for the filter resin, whatever its shape, to be inserted into the internal cavity 16.

[0106] According to this second aspect of the invention, the lid 20 is configured to move translationally along the longitudinal axis X from a filling position, in which the lateral openings 15 are open to allow the internal cavity 16 to be filled, to a use position, in which the lateral openings 15 are closed by the lid's platform 21. Thus, when the lid 20 is in the filling position and the lateral openings 15 are open, the filter resin A' can be loaded into the internal cavity 16 by any suitable means, whereas, when the lid 20 is in the use position and the lateral openings 15 are closed by the platform 21, it is impossible to access the internal cavity 16 by this means. Moreover, in this use position, in addition to the lateral openings 15, the second longitudinal end 12 of the body is also closed.When the cartridge 8 reaches this operating position, this advantageously causes a settling or even compression of the filter resin A' in the internal cavity 16, which ensures a compact retention of the filter resin A' in the internal cavity.

[0107] The filter 1' according to this second aspect of the invention overcomes many drawbacks of filters according to the prior art. Indeed, in filters according to the prior art, the internal cavity can only be loaded / filled from the bottom of the internal cavity, this bottom being removable. However, this bottom, which can be considered a lid, is generally made up of several parts that must first be separated from the filter so that the filter resin can be loaded into the internal cavity. Generally, disassembling these parts requires tedious operations that can be particularly complex. Reassembling these parts in the filter can also prove tedious and very complex. The filter 1' according to the second aspect of the invention not only allows the internal cavity to be easily filled but also allows the lid 20 to be subsequently mounted by simply pressing it down on the user.The filter 1' is therefore particularly easy to use. The position of the openings 15, namely laterally at the second longitudinal end 12 of the body, is therefore particularly suitable so that filling can be carried out simply and without having to perform complex and numerous manipulations to assemble or reassemble the lid 20.

[0108] An example of a filter 1' is illustrated in Figures 5a to 5c, which successively show the cover 20 in the filling position (Figs. 5a and 5b) and in the operating position (Fig. 5c). Depending on the configuration of the filter 1', it may be necessary to invert the filter 1' to prevent the filter resin A' from falling out during loading or exerting excessive pressure on the cover 20 during loading. In this regard, the lateral openings 15 are not necessarily located at the second longitudinal end 12 of the body, although this is more practical if it is desired to facilitate complete filling of the internal cavity 16 with filter resin. In a particular embodiment, the cartridge 8 comprises two diametrically opposed openings 15, which allows both sufficient attachment of the cover 20 to the cartridge 8 and a simple manufacturing process for the cover.

[0109] According to a third aspect, the invention further relates to a method 100 for filling a filter 1' according to the second aspect of the invention. The method 100 according to this third aspect of the invention comprises the following steps in this order:

[0110] 110) provide a filter 1' according to the second aspect of the invention,

[0111] 120) put the lid 20 in the filling position,

[0112] 130) fill the internal cavity 16 with filter resin A' via the or 15 lateral vertures, and

[0113] 140) close the cartridge 8 using the cover 20.

[0114] The filling method 100 according to the third aspect of the invention overcomes many drawbacks of known prior art filling methods. Following step 130, since the cover 20 is pre-positioned on the cartridge 8, it is possible to fill the inner cavity of the filter resin A' without the need for any masking element, unlike prior art methods, for example, those described in document JP-A-2021137771. Implementing this method with a filter—as previously described—which has a cover 20 that leaves the lateral openings 15 open when in the filling position and closes said lateral openings 15 when in the operating position, allows for simple filling with a very small number of steps.

[0115] In this regard, and according to an embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 5a], the cover 20 includes at least one pattern 30 for identifying the filling position and the operating position. This pattern 30 is arranged so that, in the filling position, the pattern is fully visible, and in the operating position, the pattern is partially visible. This allows the user to quickly assess the position of the cover 20 relative to that of the cartridge 8, which can be particularly useful when several fluid circuits 50 need to be serviced. In this particular case, the pattern indicates "not filled" ("not filled" in (French). It is fully visible in the filling position, while in the usage position only the word "filled" is visible. It is therefore possible to quickly identify the status of cartridge 8, i.e., filled / not filled.

[0116] Furthermore, where the platform 21 is connected to a central well 25 having second orifices 27a, 27b, 27c, it is advantageous for these second orifices to be covered with a screen that retains the filter resin A' from the central well during loading. In addition, it is also advantageous for the first longitudinal end 28 of the central well to be dimensioned so that it is already engaged in the first longitudinal end 11 of the body when the cover 20 is in the operating position. This prevents the filter resin A' from blocking the closure of the cover. No additional masking element is required at the second longitudinal end 12 of the body to prevent the resin A' from entering the central well 25, unlike what has been seen in the prior art.

[0117] According to a particular embodiment, the platform 21 has first means 22 for attaching to the cartridge 8, and the second end 12 of the body has second means 17 for attaching to the platform 21. The first 22 and second 17 means for attaching are free when the lid 20 is in the filling position, while the second means 17 are engaged with the first means 22 when the lid 20 is in the operating position. Thus, in step 140, the cartridge 8 can be closed by the lid by making the second means 17 and the first means 22 cooperate so that the second means 22 are engaged with the first means 17 when the lid 20 reaches the operating position.

[0118] Preferably, one of the elements selected from the first attachment means 22 and the second attachment means 17 comprises protrusions 22a, 22c, and the other of these elements comprises notches 17a, 17c. The second attachment means 17 could therefore be located on the cover 20, while the first attachment means 22 could, conversely, be located on the cartridge 8, in particular at the second longitudinal end 12 of the body. Regardless of the configuration chosen, the protrusions 22a, 22c are then preferably configured to cooperate by elastic snap-fit ​​with the notches 17a, 17b to secure the elements together. By fitting into the first notches 17a, the first protrusions 22a allow the cover 20 to be angularly locked relative to the cartridge 8, which is particularly advantageous when the cover 20 is in the operating position.The same applies when the second protuberances 22c fit into the second notches 17c.

[0119] Furthermore, the first protuberances 22a are respectively separated from the second protuberance 22c by spaces 22b, the attachment means 17 com The tabs 17b are designed to fit into the spaces 22b so as to longitudinally lock the cover 20 relative to the body 10 when the cover 20 is in the operating position. The interaction of the tabs 17b with the spaces 22b further secures the cover 20 to the cartridge by preventing the cover 20 from moving along the longitudinal axis X once it is fixed to the cartridge. In other words, the interaction of the tabs 17b and the spaces 22b achieves longitudinal locking of the cover 20 relative to the cartridge 8.

[0120] Other means of attaching the cover 20 to the cartridge 8 can be considered; however, the first attachment means 22 and the second attachment means 17 described above make it possible to reliably attach the cover 20 to the cartridge 8 while allowing easy removal of the cover 20. Indeed, the cover 20 can be separated from the cartridge 8 by applying pressure to the second protrusion 22c (pressed into the second notch 17c, e.g. [Fig. 5c]) above a predetermined threshold. The force thus generated on the cover 20 dislodges the tab 17b from the space 22b and the first protrusion 22a from the first notch 17a.

[0121] According to a particular embodiment and as can be seen in the figures, the first notches 17a extend from a first annular rim 12a on an internal surface of the body 10. The fact that the first notches 17a are close to the first annular rim 12a makes it possible to reduce the stresses exerted by the cover 20 on the cartridge 8 when said cover 20 moves from the filling position to the operating position.

[0122] According to another particular embodiment, the platform 21 includes a second annular rim 31 projecting from an external surface of the platform such that, in the filling position, this second annular rim 31 abuts against the first annular rim 12a. Thus, when the lid 20 reaches the operating position, it is held both by the first 17 and second 22 fastening means and also by the second annular rim 31. The latter also serves as a means for locking the lid 20 against translation relative to the cartridge 8. It marks the end-of-travel position of the lid.

[0123] The configurations shown in the cited figures are only possible examples, in no way limiting, of the invention which on the contrary encompasses the variants of designs within the reach of the person skilled in the art.

Claims

Claims

1. Deionizer (1) for a fluid circuit (50), the deionizer (1) comprising: - a fluid connection base (2) capable of being connected to a fluid circuit, this base (2) comprising a fluid inlet port (3), a fluid outlet port (4), and a fixing interface (5), and - a cartridge (8) comprising a body (10) and a cover (20), the body (10) having a generally tubular shape along a longitudinal axis (X), and comprising a first closed longitudinal end (11) and a second longitudinal end (12) which is configured to be fixed to the fixing interface (5) of the base, the body (10) comprising an internal storage cavity (16) capable of storing an ion exchange resin (A), the cover (20) being intended to be fixed to the second longitudinal end (12) of the body and comprising a platform (21) connected to a central well (25), the platform (21) extending transversely with respect to said longitudinal axis (X) and closing the second end (12) of the body and said internal cavity (16),this platform (21) comprising first orifices (23) covered by a first sieve or comprising this first sieve (23a), the first orifices (23) being configured to allow a fluid (F) to pass from said internal cavity (16) to the outlet port (4), and the first sieve being configured to retain the resin and prevent it from leaving the internal cavity (16), and the central well (25) extending inside the body (10) and having a generally tubular shape along the longitudinal axis (X), the central well (25) comprising a first closed longitudinal end (28) located on the side of the first longitudinal end (11) of the body, and a second longitudinal end (29) which is connected to the platform (21) and which is fluidically connected to the inlet port (3), the central well (25) comprising two adjacent sections (25a, 25b) between its first (28) and second (29) longitudinal ends,an upper section (25a) located on the side of the first end (28) and comprising second orifices (27a, 27b, 27c) covered by a second screen or comprising this second screen, the second orifices (27a, 27b, 27c) being configured to allow the fluid (F) to pass from the central well (25) into the internal cavity (16), and the second screen being configured to retain the resin (A) and prevent it from leaving the internal cavity, (16), and a lower section (25b) which is located on the side of the second end (29) and which is devoid of orifices.

2. A deionizer (1) according to claim 1, wherein the second orifices (27a, 27b, 27c) have diameters (db d2, d3) increasing along the longitudinal axis (X), the second orifices (27c) having the larger diameters being proximal to the first end (28) while the second orifices (27a) having the smaller diameters are distal to the first end (28).

3. Deionizer (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, in which the second orifices (27a, 27b, 27c) have dimensions, along the longitudinal axis (X), not differing by more than 10% from the dimensions, along a transverse axis (Y), of the central well (25) and the inlet port (3).

4. Deionizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second orifices (27a, 27b, 27c) are angularly distributed around a circumference of the central well (25).

5. Deionizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the longitudinal dimensions of the lower section (25b) are at least equal to the longitudinal dimensions of the upper section (25a).

6. A deionizer (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the first orifices (23) are uniformly distributed around the central well (25), said first orifices having substantially the same diameter or transverse dimension.

7. Deionizer (1) according to claim 5, wherein the central well (25) comprises between four and ten first orifices (23).

8. Deionizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the platform (21) comprises an upper face (21a), of circular shape, delimited by a peripheral periphery (21b) extending around the longitudinal axis (X), this peripheral periphery (21b) having a cylindrical shape matching an inner periphery of the second longitudinal end (12) of the cartridge, said first orifices (23) being formed in the upper face (21a).

9. A deionizer (1) according to any preceding claim, further comprising an exhaust cavity (24) formed by the platform (21) and the base (2), said exhaust cavity (24) extending around the inlet port (3).

10. Deionizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet port (3) comprises a channel (7) for connecting the inlet port (3) to the central well (25), the connecting channel (7) being substantially straight and opening at the second longitudinal end (29) of the central well.

11. Deionizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the base (2) comprises a multi-way valve (6) for connecting the deionizer (1) to the fluid circuit (50).

12. Deionizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body (10) comprises a dome (13), located at its first end (11), this dome being configured to receive the first end (28) of the central well, the body (10) further comprising an air purge hole (13a) and a plug (13b) configured to be fixed to the air purge hole (13a), the air purge hole and the plug (13) being located at a top of the dome.

13. Deionizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second end (12) of the body comprises first fixing means (14), and wherein the fixing interface (5) comprises second fixing means (5a) complementary to the first fixing means (14) and capable of cooperating with said first fixing means (14).

14. Deionizer (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the platform (21) comprises first means (22) for attachment to the cartridge (8), and the second end (12) of the body comprises openings (15) for loading the ion exchange resin (A) and second means (17) for attachment to the platform (21), the cover (20) being configured to move between a filling position, in which the attachment means (17) are free and the openings (15) are open so as to give access to the internal cavity (16) for filling, and a use position, in which the second attachment means (17) are engaged with the first attachment means (22) and the openings (15) are closed by the platform (21), by translation of longitudinal axis (X).

15. Fluid circuit (50), in particular for a vehicle, comprising a stack (51) of fuel cells, a heat exchanger (54) and a deionizer according to any one of the preceding claims.

16. A method (100) of filling a deionizer (1), the method (100) comprising the following steps in this order: (110) providing a cartridge (8) and a cover (20) of a deionizer according to claim 14, (120) put the cover (20) in a filling position, (130) filling the internal cavity (16) with ion exchange resin (A) via the openings (15), and (140) close the cartridge (8) using the cover (20).

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