GAS REGULATION VALVE FOR AN ATMOSPHERIC BATTERY AND BATTERY EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A VALVE

Abstract

GAS REGULATION VALVE FOR AN ATMOSPHERIC BATTERY AND BATTERY EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A VALVE. A gas regulation valve (1) for the gas contained in the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, said valve comprising a fixed flange (10) intended to be integral with the envelope of said balloon, a movable flange (20), a flexible, leak-proof membrane (30) integral with the two flanges and defining a gas circulation channel, and means for rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange between a position, referred to as the open position, in which the gas flow can escape into said circulation channel formed by said membrane (30), and a position, referred to as the closed position, obtained by twisting said membrane (30) according to a hyperboloid structure that prevents any gas circulation through said valve. Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 4

Description

Title of the invention: GAS REGULATION VALVE FOR AN ATMOSPHERIC BALLOON AND BALLOON EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A VALVE Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to an automatic or controlled gas regulation device for an aerostat. More particularly, the invention relates to a valve for regulating the gas contained in the envelope of an atmospheric balloon by releasing a quantity of gas; the invention also relates to a balloon equipped with such a valve. Technological background

[0002] Aerostats are aircraft whose lift is provided by a gas lighter than air. In order to rise to altitude, these aircraft must be able to benefit from the aerostatic force resulting from the difference in density between the gas contained inside the aerostat and the outside air. Therefore, it is necessary to be able to control the amount of gas inside the aerostat and to be able to release gas to control the aircraft's altitude.

[0003] Among known aerostats, atmospheric balloons or weather balloons must traverse and be affected by the different pressure layers present between the ground launch point and atmospheric heights. The quantity of lifting gas contained inside the balloon, fixed at launch, must therefore be able to be reduced at any time in order to guarantee the lift force necessary for the planned trajectory of the aerostat.

[0004] Currently, several models of atmospheric balloons exist, incorporating valves for releasing the gas contained within the balloon's envelope. These valves are mostly complex mechanical structures. Typically, such devices use axial flap valves or hinged flap valves. While these existing solutions allow the gas to be released from the balloon, they increase the complexity of the valve's mechanical structure and contribute to its weight. A heavier and more complex structure inevitably requires longer assembly times and a larger gas supply for balloon launch.

[0005] According to the prior art, there exist aerostats equipped with means for managing the gas contained within them. These means include, however, mechanical hinged flap or hinged valves, or even valves with axial flaps. These Prior art solutions are complex mechanical designs that multiply the wear parts and contribute to making the aerostat heavier.

[0006] There is therefore a need to remedy the drawbacks of the prior art, in particular for stratospheric balloons intended to carry passengers for an unprecedented space experience or for other aerostats that could benefit from the solution proposed by the present invention. Objectives of the invention

[0007] The invention aims to provide a gas regulation valve contained in an envelope of an atmospheric balloon, in particular stratospheric, located at the top of a balloon, said valve being capable of releasing gas on command.

[0008] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve whose risk of failure is minimized.

[0009] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve that is simple in design and economical to manufacture and assemble.

[0010] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve capable of serving as a rigid support for related elements necessary for the use of the balloon.

[0011] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve whose structure is detachable from the balloon.

[0012] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, an atmospheric balloon, in particular stratospheric, equipped with a regulating valve as defined in the description of the invention.

[0013] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve whose gas flow can be finely controlled and maintained in an infinite number of intermediate positions between the fully open and fully closed positions.

[0014] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a balloon comprising a control module capable of controlling the opening and closing of a regulating valve according to the environmental conditions in which said balloon evolves. Description of the invention

[0015] Throughout the text, "atmospheric balloon" is defined as an aerostat comprising an envelope containing a carrier gas, said aerostat being able to rise in the atmosphere thanks to the difference in density between the gas contained inside the aerostat and the outside air.

[0016] To this end, the invention relates to a gas regulating valve contained in the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, said valve extending in a longitudinal direction and comprising: • a fixed flange intended to be attached to the envelope of said balloon, • a movable flange relative to the fixed flange, extending opposite said flange fixed flange, spaced from the latter along the longitudinal direction, • a flexible, gas-tight membrane extending between the fixed flange and the moving flange, said membrane being attached respectively to each of the flanges, and defining a gas circulation channel between the fixed flange and the moving flange, • means for rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange between a position, called the open position, in which a flow of gas can circulate in said circulation channel formed by said membrane and a position, called the closed position, obtained by twisting said membrane according to a hyperboloid structure which prevents any circulation of gas through said valve.

[0017] A gas regulating valve for the envelope of a balloon is defined as a valve that allows the controlled release, expulsion, or reduction of a quantity of carrier gas contained within the envelope of an atmospheric balloon. The carrier gas inside the envelope can thus be displaced outside the balloon when the valve is opened.

[0018] The regulating valve according to the present invention is therefore characterized by its ability to move from an open position to a closed position by means of a cooperating assembly comprising a fixed flange, a flange movable relative to said fixed flange, a flexible, sealed diaphragm, and means for rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange. The flexible diaphragm is integral with each of said flanges and arranged to define a channel for the circulation of a gas flow. This diaphragm is also gas-tight to prevent any gas from passing through it when the valve according to the invention is closed.

[0019] According to the invention, the valve defines a gas flow discharge conduit extending along a longitudinal direction. This longitudinal direction can be considered as a longitudinal axis of said valve.

[0020] The fixed flange of the valve according to the invention connects to the balloon's envelope and can be integral with it. When fixed to the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, this flange remains removable, and it can be secured with pressure rings, a screw-nut system, or other known means for fastening and tightening.

[0021] The fixed flange corresponds to a base adapted for connection to the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, particularly a stratospheric one. In some embodiments, the fixed flange comprises, but is not limited to, two rigid, circular parts between which an O-ring is arranged. For the purposes of this invention, it is understood that the flanges may have shapes other than circular and that those skilled in the art will adapt the shape of the seal required for mounting these parts accordingly. The sealing gasket is preferably a single piece.

[0022] The two parts of the fixed flange are clamped together by clamping means known to those skilled in the art. This arrangement thus defines a first level of sealing at the interface between the balloon casing and the fixed flange of the valve.

[0023] According to the invention, the valve also has a second flange positioned opposite the fixed flange and spaced from it along the longitudinal axis of the valve, on the opposite side of the fixed flange. This flange is a movable flange whose rotation relative to the fixed flange allows the valve to be opened or closed. In some embodiments, the movable flange comprises two parts, a lower part and an upper part. In this case, the movable flange may be an arrangement of two rigid, circular parts, in which the lower part of the movable flange is defined as the part positioned opposite the fixed flange along the longitudinal axis, and in which the upper part of the movable flange is defined as the other face.For the purposes of this invention, it will be agreed that the terms "upper part" and "upper face" refer to the fixed flange or the movable flange unless otherwise stated, and that in that case they shall be considered equivalent; the same shall apply to the terms "lower part" or "lower face" when these refer to the fixed flange or the movable flange.

[0024] It should be specified for the purposes of the invention that the longitudinal axis of the valve can be defined as the axis perpendicular to the planes in which the fixed flange and the moving flange respectively extend, these planes being parallel to each other.

[0025] The movable flange can thus comprise two overlapping parts, representing respectively a lower and an upper portion. Between these two portions is a sealing gasket to which one end of the diaphragm according to the invention is attached. This end corresponds to the upper end of the diaphragm when it is arranged on the movable flange of the valve. This combination of the sealing gasket and the diaphragm, thus arranged between the two portions of the movable flange, ensures a hermetic seal of the diaphragm at the level of the movable flange and provides a second level of sealing within the valve. In this configuration, the diaphragm and the sealing gasket are located between the two portions of the movable flange.

[0026] The fastening means used to fix the two parts of the movable flange together and to ensure the airtight seal of the gasket and the membrane are means known clamping methods similar to those used for the fixed flange of the invention, such as, for example, a means of fixing using screws and nuts.

[0027] The present invention also includes a flexible, gas-tight membrane extending between the fixed flange and the movable flange, said membrane being attached respectively to each of the flanges. For the purposes of the invention, "flexible" refers to the membrane's ability to bend or twist easily, and "gas-tight" refers to the membrane's ability to prevent the passage of fluids such as carrier gases contained in the stratospheric envelope.

[0028] When the valve is in the open position, the diaphragm has a cylindrical shape, in the mathematical sense of the term, and comprises two open ends. A cylinder is defined as any solid generated by a straight line moving parallel to itself along a generatrix. Such a generatrix may, for example, be square, circular, or oval, without limitation. Preferably, the flanges are circular and the flexible diaphragm is cylindrical with a circular base.

[0029] Each end of the diaphragm is arranged around a sealing gasket such that a first assembly of the sealing gasket and one of the open ends of the diaphragm is positioned between the two parts of the movable flange on one side, and a second assembly of the sealing gasket and the other open end of the diaphragm is positioned on the fixed flange on the other. These two assemblies between the gasket and the diaphragm are secured by a clamping means known to those skilled in the art, such as screws and nuts. The arrangement of these ends is thus designed to ensure the sealing of the valve structure at these different points.According to the invention, the term "association" refers to the cooperation of the sealing gasket with the diaphragm to ensure the sealing and airtightness at each end of said diaphragm within the valve; in this respect, the diaphragm is wrapped around the gasket.

[0030] It is thus understood that said first association at the movable flange constitutes the upper part of the cylinder formed by the membrane and that said second association at the fixed flange constitutes the lower part of the cylinder formed by the membrane. Advantageously, according to the invention, the membrane thus arranged defines a gas flow channel between the fixed flange and the movable flange, said flow channel being analogous to a cylinder.

[0031] It should be specified, for the purposes of the invention, that the seals are placed around the ends of the flexible membrane. Therefore, a person skilled in the art will be able to choose the most suitable seal shape depending on the shape of the flanges of the invention. In this way, and by way of non-limitation according to the invention, O-rings may, for example, be used for flanges with a circular shape.

[0032] It is understood within the meaning of the present invention that the shape of this circulation channel is not limited to that of a right circular cylinder, and that as such, it could also be assimilated to that of a right prism.

[0033] The fixed flange and the movable flange are spaced apart and arranged parallel to each other such that the means for rotating said movable flange relative to said fixed flange allow the gas flow channel of the valve according to the invention to be narrowed or even completely closed. By parallel arrangement of the flanges, it is understood that each of the flanges defines a plane, and that each of these planes is parallel to each other. Thus, according to the invention, the fixed flange and the movable flange are spaced apart by a distance d.

[0034] The constituent materials of the fixed flange and the movable flange that may be used are chosen from aluminium, carbon fibre reinforced composite materials and any other material known to those skilled in the art that can be used for atmospheric conditions, in particular stratospheric conditions.

[0035] In the present invention, it should be specified that the terms "circulation channel" and "circulation corridor" refer interchangeably to the passage formed by the flexible, sealed membrane arranged between the fixed and movable flanges within the valve. This passage thus formed can be considered as a cylinder delimited at its lower part by the plane formed by the fixed flange and at its upper part by the plane formed by the movable flange, said planes thus constituting the bases of the cylinder.

[0036] According to the invention, means for rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange are also provided. These means comprise one or more actuators which further enable the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange, by means of driving said movable flange. The actuators usable according to the invention are motorized, manual, or automated actuators known to those skilled in the art and capable of being remotely controlled.

[0037] Furthermore, the valve according to the invention may include at least one actuator that directly or indirectly animates the movable flange. When the animates indirectly, the actuator includes means for the indirect transmission of motion known to those skilled in the art. Conversely, when the animates directly, the actuator is configured to transmit the motion directly to the flange; this direct animates corresponds to a structural arrangement involving direct contact between the actuator and the movable flange.

[0038] With regard to the actuation of the movable flange, and by way of non-limiting example, it may be provided that the movable flange of the valve according to the invention comprises, on its distal part, at least one of its faces, a portion configured to be connected to a gear. Preferably, said portion is configured to mesh with an actuator and is located on the radial surface of the movable flange.

[0039] Thus the movable flange may include a toothed or notched portion or any other equivalent means for being driven and / or linked to an actuator.

[0040] Such actuators may be equipped with a pinion or a gear transmission system capable of being coupled to the toothed portion of the movable flange. This type of coupling allows for a mechanical meshing between the actuator and the movable flange.

[0041] Furthermore, the invention may also provide that the valve can have several actuators. Each actuator could, for example, be a disengaged motor when the movable flange is stopped, while remaining capable of operating independently of the others. In this way, each motor can take over to actuate the movable flange regardless of the operating state of the other motors. In the event of a failure of a motor or of the mechanical transmission between the motor and the movable flange, another motor opens or closes the valve according to the invention.

[0042] Between each motor, the valve according to the invention includes a mechanical transmission adapted to be able to transmit and transform a movement from the motor to the movable flange, which can be translated by the continuous rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange between an open position and a closed position.

[0043] The open or closed position of the valve according to the invention is defined as a function of the angular position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange. Thus, rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction will cause the flexible diaphragm, and therefore the gas flow channel defined by the cooperating assembly consisting of the fixed flange, the movable flange relative to the fixed flange, and the flexible diaphragm, to twist. This rotation will result in a hyperboloid structure of the flexible diaphragm, the twisting of which will create, in the "fully closed" position, a tight seal within the valve.

[0044] This hyperboloid structure will thus consist of two bases, respectively formed by the fixed flange and the movable flange. These two bases then form two parallel planes. During torsion by rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange, the diaphragm acts as a seal on itself and eliminates the need for all the mechanical parts usually required for the operation of valves and flaps known to those skilled in the art. The valve according to the invention thus has fewer parts in its structure and is lighter in weight.

[0045] The open or "fully open" position of the valve can be defined as the angular position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange where the gas flow rate is maximum. This position also corresponds to the position where it No apparent torsion of the flexible diaphragm is observed; it can be considered relaxed and at rest. In this configuration, the diaphragm is likely to form a floating lobe within the valve. This lobe can be kept taut using a tensioning device. Conversely, the closed or "fully closed" position can be defined as the angular position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange where the torsion of the flexible diaphragm is such that it prevents any gas flow through the valve. In the closed position, the gas flow rate within the valve is zero, the diaphragm is taut, and it forms a hyperboloid structure.

[0046] For the purposes of this invention, it will be understood that the valve can move through an infinite number of different positions between the open and closed positions and be held in each of these positions. These positions can be defined as intermediate positions; these intermediate positions are positions between the open or "fully open" position, offering maximum flow rate, and the closed or "fully closed" position, offering zero flow rate, as defined above. The flow channel, which can be considered a cylinder, can thus have a variable diameter different from the diameter of the "fully open" or "fully closed" position of the valve, depending on the position of the flanges. In other words, this diameter varies according to the position of the movable flange.

[0047] Accordingly, the invention also provides for position sensors known to those skilled in the art. These sensors can be placed along the movable flange in order to visualize and identify the different angular positions of the movable flange and to identify the open state of the valve. Maintaining the flange in a given position can be achieved by stopping the motor(s) sufficient to withstand the rotational forces.

[0048] Furthermore, the valve according to the invention may include a plurality of sensors for detecting the angular position of the moving flange relative to the fixed flange. In a known manner, said sensors are configured to transmit data on the position of the moving flange relative to the fixed flange, said position corresponding to a state. This position data may be digital or analog and may be transmitted to a data receiver by known means, said receiver being capable of informing an operator of the position of the moving flange relative to the fixed flange and of allowing estimation of the valve flow.

[0049] In this respect, the valve according to the invention makes it possible to regulate the release of gas contained in an atmospheric balloon according to the needs of an operator, depending on the conditions of the external environment. In this way, if the balloon needs to rise rapidly, the operator can hold the valve in its position closed, and on the contrary, if the balloon has to descend the operator can release and manage in a controlled manner the flow of gas contained in the envelope of the balloon by opening the valve according to a suitable intermediate position, or according to the open position in order to release as much gas as possible.

[0050] It is understood that, when using a valve according to the invention, the gas flow circulates from the inside of the balloon, i.e. from the envelope where this gas is contained, to the outside of the balloon by circulating through the valve, and more precisely through the gas flow circulation channel which can be likened to a cylinder defined by the flexible membrane attached to the fixed flange and the movable flange of the valve.

[0051] The valve according to the invention must allow the gas contained in the balloon's envelope to circulate to the outside on command. To this end, it is therefore necessary to ensure perfect sealing at the various structural interfaces of the valve.

[0052] The valve according to the invention allows the gas contained in the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, preferably stratospheric. The gas contained in the envelope of said balloon may be hydrogen or helium or any carrier gas that can be used by a person skilled in the art in this type of device.

[0053] The valve according to the invention may also comprise a series of movable flanges as defined above and arranged to define a gas flow channel. By series of movable flanges, we mean several stages extending longitudinally along the axis of the valve and comprising one or more flanges that are movable and rotate relative to a fixed flange.

[0054] Advantageously and according to the invention, the valve further comprises a ferrule integral with the fixed flange, said ferrule defining a cylindrical wall arranged longitudinally between the fixed flange and the movable flange.

[0055] The ferrule is a rigid cylindrical structure capable of being perforated in several places to accommodate fasteners and various equipment known to those skilled in the art.

[0056] The materials constituting the ferrule can be chosen from among the materials known to those skilled in the art and commonly used in stratospheric balloon valves. Preferably, the materials can be chosen from aluminum, or even carbon-based composites.

[0057] Thus, according to this advantageous embodiment, the ferrule forms a wall of the valve serving to protect the flexible diaphragm from disturbances that may be caused by outside air. Outside air is defined herein as the air located outside the valve according to the invention, as opposed to the gas contained in the balloon.

[0058] Advantageously and according to the invention, the valve further comprises an intermediate armature, removably mounted on the fixed flange and extending in such a way concentric inside the cylindrical wall forming the ferrule, said armature being arranged between the fixed flange and the movable flange.

[0059] According to this advantageous embodiment, the intermediate frame serves to maintain a constant space between the ends of the flexible diaphragm, and consequently, this constant space is also maintained between the movable flange and the fixed flange of the valve. Thus, translational movement of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange is avoided, with the added advantage of simplifying assembly operations and reducing the weight of the valve structure.

[0060] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lower part of the flexible diaphragm, thus defining the lower base of the cylinder, is sealed by attaching and tightening the intermediate armature onto the fixed flange of the valve according to the invention, the engaged end of the flexible diaphragm being connected to a suitable seal. Thus, a third level of sealing is defined. The tightening and fastening means can be those known to those skilled in the art, such as screws and nuts.

[0061] According to this advantageous variant, the frame is removable, which simplifies the assembly and replacement of the membrane without needing to replace the fixed flange.

[0062] Preferably, and to reduce the weight of the structure, the lower part of the intermediate frame attached to the fixed flange is brought closer to the moving flange, maintaining a constant and uniform spacing at every point between the two flanges. When the valve is in the open position, the relaxed diaphragm is then able to form a lobe along the flow path. This lobe has a length L defined as a function of the distance d, where d represents the spacing between the moving flange and the fixed flange of the valve and the diameter D of the moving flange.

[0063] Advantageously and according to the invention, the movable flange comprises two parts between which are arranged a sealing gasket and the flexible membrane, said two parts being configured to allow the attachment of the flexible membrane to the movable flange.

[0064] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, the flexible membrane thus arranged makes it possible to prevent leaks of gas circulating at the level of the upper part of the circulation channel which it defines between the two flanges, at the level of the movable flange.

[0065] Advantageously and according to the invention, the fixed flange and the intermediate frame form two parts between which a sealing gasket and the flexible membrane are arranged, said two parts being configured to allow the attachment of the flexible membrane to the fixed flange.

[0066] In one embodiment, the ferrule may also be provided to have an "L" shape in its lower part. In this configuration, the ferrule then serves as the lower part onto which a sealing gasket and the flexible membrane are placed. everything is then tightened with the lower part of the intermediate frame which is fixed onto the fixed flange using screws and nuts.

[0067] Thus and according to these advantageous variants, the flexible membrane thus arranged makes it possible to prevent leaks of gas circulating at the level of the lower part of the circulation channel which it defines between the two flanges, at the level of the fixed flange.

[0068] Advantageously and according to the invention, the means for rotating the movable flange include at least one actuator mechanically connected to the movable flange, said actuator being configured to move the movable flange relative to the fixed flange between said open position and said closed position.

[0069] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, the transmission of the rotational movement to the moving flange is facilitated.

[0070] Advantageously and according to the invention, the movable flange includes a toothed portion configured to be in mechanical contact with an actuator.

[0071] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, maintaining the movable flange in a certain position is facilitated, thereby facilitating the stopping of the movement, particularly when the actuator is disengaged.

[0072] Advantageously and according to the invention, the valve further comprises horizontal guiding means and vertical guiding means for the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange.

[0073] Thus, according to this advantageous variant, the horizontal and vertical forces resulting from the rotation of the movable flange relative to the flange are reduced, and the rotation is therefore optimized.

[0074] Advantageously and according to the invention, the horizontal guiding means and the vertical guiding means are respectively carried by the ferrule and the intermediate frame.

[0075] Thus, according to this advantageous embodiment, the movable flange can be inserted between the vertical and horizontal guide means. Preferably, the horizontal guide means carried by the ferrule are located at a height substantially greater than the height of the vertical guide means carried by the intermediate armature along the longitudinal axis of the valve.

[0076] Advantageously and according to the invention, the horizontal and vertical guiding means comprise anti-friction devices in contact with the movable flange.

[0077] The anti-friction devices that can be used in the invention are mechanical devices and can be chosen, for example, from ball bearings, anti-friction rings or other known means of reducing friction.

[0078] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, the friction of the movable flange during its rotation is greatly reduced and the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange is facilitated.

[0079] Advantageously and according to the invention, the movable flange includes a groove formed on the lower face in which the anti-friction devices of the vertical guiding means are housed.

[0080] Thus, according to this advantageous variant, the vertical forces resulting from the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange are better compensated, as these forces are much greater than the horizontal forces. This groove, like a rail, allows for better guidance of the movable flange's rotation.

[0081] Advantageously and according to the invention, the movable flange includes a beveled portion on the upper face in which the anti-friction devices of the horizontal guiding means come to rest.

[0082] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, this structural arrangement also optimizes the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange.

[0083] Advantageously and according to the invention, the anti-friction devices are oriented at an angle of inclination between 30° and 70° with respect to the longitudinal direction of the valve.

[0084] Preferably, according to this variant, the anti-friction devices of the horizontal guide means can be oriented at an angle [3] of inclination between 45° and 70° with respect to the longitudinal direction of the valve, since the horizontal forces resulting from the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange are less significant than the vertical forces. Consequently, the anti-friction devices of the vertical guide means can also be oriented at an angle [y] of inclination between 30° and 45° with respect to the longitudinal direction of the valve, since the vertical rotational forces of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange are greater and may require a smaller angle for supporting the movable flange.

[0085] It should be specified for the purposes of the invention that the longitudinal direction of the valve coincides with the direction of the horizontal and vertical guiding means respectively carried by the ferrule and the intermediate armature.

[0086] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, the valve allows better management of the rotation of the moving flange compared to the fixed flange.

[0087] Advantageously and according to the invention, the flexible waterproof membrane comprises one or more material(s) selected from plastic polymers, silicones, elastomers or a mixture thereof.

[0088] Thus, and according to this advantageous variant, the materials chosen allow for high membrane flexibility as well as increased resistance to torsion and to aging. According to this variant, the materials chosen are of grades known to those skilled in the art to withstand atmospheric conditions, particularly stratospheric conditions in terms of pressure and temperature.

[0089] Advantageously and according to the invention, the membrane extends, in the open position, along the longitudinal direction by a length L defined by the following relation [Math 1]:

[0090] [Math.l]

[0091] where d corresponds to the distance between the movable flange and the fixed flange and D corresponds to the diameter of the movable flange.

[0092] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, the length L of the membrane allows the membrane to be closed after the movable flange has made at least one rotation of 180°.

[0093] When L is defined by the following relation [Math 2]:

[0094] [Math.2]

[0095] The valve can thus be closed by rotating the movable flange 180°. However, when L is defined by the following relation [Math 3]:

[0096] [Math.3] L > ^(d2 + D2)

[0097] the valve can be closed by a rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange, but the length L of the diaphragm then allows several rotations to be made, in other words, the movable flange can thus make a rotation greater than 180°.

[0098] The invention also relates to an atmospheric balloon, preferably stratospheric, comprising an envelope for containing a gas, a gas regulation valve contained in said envelope, environmental sensors and a control module, said balloon being equipped with a regulation valve as defined above, said valve being positioned at the top of the envelope of said balloon.

[0099] It is understood that the apex of such an envelope is defined as the highest point of the balloon's envelope relative to its axis of ascent. Furthermore, the balloon may include a plurality of valves according to the invention.

[0100] Environmental sensors are understood to mean sensors suitable for determining data relating to the altitude of the balloon and / or atmospheric pressure and / or temperature of the external environment. These sensors are known to those skilled in the art and can further be selected from altimeters, barometers and thermometers commonly used to assess atmospheric conditions and more particularly stratospheric conditions.

[0101] Advantageously and according to the invention, the balloon control module is configured to control the rotation of the movable flange of the valve relative to the fixed flange according to data from environmental sensors.

[0102] For this purpose, the control module should be understood as a module capable of processing and determining a control law for opening or closing the valve based on data from environmental sensors. Indeed, the environmental factors mentioned above can have a significant impact on the effects of opening the valve for the same control action.

[0103] The control module thus makes it possible to compensate for environmental effects. In order to pilot the balloon along the best possible trajectory, the pilot must have a means of opening and / or closing the valve with the same feel regardless of the environmental conditions in which the balloon is moving. The piloting law determined by the module thus makes it possible to compensate for the potential impact of these environmental conditions on the piloting.

[0104] Thus and according to this variant of the invention, the control module allows the implementation and application of a control law ensuring similar piloting of the aerostat for the same duration of opening or closing of the valve command depending on the environmental conditions in which said aerostat evolves. List of figures

[0105] Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of non-limiting example only, and which refers to the accompanying figures in which:

[0106] [Fig.1] is a schematic view according to an embodiment of the flexible membrane of the valve according to the invention, when the valve is in the open position. • [Fig.2] is a schematic view according to an embodiment of the flexible membrane of the valve according to the invention, when the valve is in the closed position. • Fig. 3 is a schematic view of a balloon equipped with a valve according to one embodiment of the invention. • Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a valve according to the invention in which said valve is in an open position, and includes circular flanges. • [Fig.5] is a longitudinal sectional view of the valve according to another embodiment of the invention where the valve is in the open position and includes circular flanges. • Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment in which an actuator is mechanically connected to a toothed portion of the movable flange.

[0107] Detailed description of an embodiment of the invention

[0108] In the figures, scales and proportions are not strictly respected for the purposes of illustration and clarity.

[0109] In the entire detailed description that follows with reference to the figures, unless otherwise indicated, each element of the valve according to the invention is described as it is arranged during its use.

[0110] Identical, similar or analogous elements are designated by the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0111] The gas regulating valve 1 according to the invention comprises a fixed flange 10, a movable flange 20, a flexible sealing membrane 30, a ferrule 40, an intermediate armature 50 and means for rotating the movable flange 20 relative to the fixed flange 10.

[0112] More specifically, the valve 1 extends along a longitudinal direction and includes at its base a fixed flange intended to be attached to an envelope 2 of an atmospheric balloon 4. The valve also includes a movable flange 20, movable relative to the fixed flange 10, which extends opposite said fixed flange 10 and is spaced from the latter by a distance d along the longitudinal direction of the valve 1. The movable flange 20 may be circular and in this case includes a diameter D, each of the flanges 10 and 20 defining planes parallel to each other and respectively orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the valve, said longitudinal direction thus being approximated to a vertical axis.

[0113] The valve 1 includes a flexible sealing membrane 30 which extends between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20 and which is respectively attached to each of the flanges 10 and 20 so as to define a gas circulation channel between said flanges 10 and 20.

[0114] The valve also includes means for rotating the movable flange 20 relative to the fixed flange 10, allowing the valve to move from a position, referred to as the open position 30a, to a position, referred to as the closed position 30b. The rotation means allow the movable flange 20 to rotate relative to the fixed flange, thus changing the angular position of the movable flange 20. The rotation of the movable flange 20 causes the diaphragm 30, which is attached to said movable flange 20 in a hyperboloid structure, to twist. In this way, the valve 1 allows the gas contained inside the envelope 2 of an atmospheric balloon 4 to be regulated by allowing the rotation of the movable flange 20 relative to the fixed flange 10, resulting in the transition from an open position, where the diaphragm 30 defines a circulation channel between the flanges 10 and 20, to a closed position. where the hermetic closure by torsion of said membrane 30 according to a hyperboloid structure prevents any circulation of gas within the valve.

[0115] The valve 1 further comprises a ferrule 40 integral with the fixed flange 10, which defines a cylindrical wall arranged longitudinally between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20. Said valve 1 may also comprise an intermediate armature 50 removably mounted on the fixed flange 10 and extending concentrically within the cylindrical wall forming the ferrule 40, said armature 50 being arranged between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20. The armature 50 is an internal structure of the valve that maintains a constant gap between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20. It may also serve as a support for the movable flange 20.

[0116] Figure 1 schematically illustrates the open position 30a of the valve 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. More specifically, this figure schematically illustrates the diaphragm 30 of the valve when the latter is in the open position 30a. It should be noted that, for this figure, the illustration is purely schematic and that the diaphragm 30 is not taut or rigid when the valve 1 is in the open position 30a. Indeed, when the valve 1 is in the open position, the flexible, airtight diaphragm 30 is likely to define a lobe along the flow of gas circulating through the circulation channel it defines. Figure 1 thus schematically illustrates the circulation channel formed by the diaphragm 30 when the valve 1 is in the open position.

[0117] Figure 2 schematically illustrates the closed position 30b of valve 1 according to another embodiment of the invention. More specifically, this figure schematically illustrates the diaphragm 30 of valve 1 when the latter is in the closed position 30b. The hyperboloid structure formed when valve 1 is closed can then be seen. It should be noted that the valve according to the invention allows rotation of the movable flange 20 in a clockwise and / or counterclockwise direction, so valve 1 can be in a closed position 30b or in an open position 30a regardless of the direction of rotation.

[0118] Fig. 3 illustrates an atmospheric balloon 4 equipped with a valve 1 at the top of its envelope 2. The valve is attached to the envelope 2 of the balloon 4 and allows the gas contained in the envelope of said balloon 4 to be regulated. In this figure, the balloon 4 further includes a gondola 3 capable of transporting passengers and / or equipment.

[0119] Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of the valve 1 according to the invention where said valve 1 is in an open position 30a. In this embodiment, the valve 1 comprises a ferrule 40 defining a cylindrical wall on which horizontal guiding means 42 for the movable flange 20 are arranged. The guiding means Horizontal guides 42 are arranged peripherally along the wall of the ferrule 40 and are fixed by a screw-nut system, thus constituting fastening means 80. In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 4], the horizontal guide means 42 comprise ball bearings 43. The ball bearings are in contact with a portion of the movable flange 20, which corresponds to a beveled portion 25 of the movable flange 20. In this figure, although the valve is in the open position 30a, the diaphragm 30 has been shown in a simplified manner for clarity; it is in a relaxed position and is capable of forming a lobe that obscures the inner side of the fixed flange 10. Furthermore, the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20 are circular and have the same diameter D. The intermediate armature 50 maintains a distance d between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20.

[0120] Figure 5 shows a cross-section along the longitudinal axis of the valve 1 according to the invention. In this figure, the valve 1 is in the open position 30a and the diaphragm 30, of length L, is relaxed and forms a lobe along the valve 1.

[0121] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 5], the movable flange 20 comprises two overlapping parts, the two parts corresponding respectively to an upper part 21 and a lower part 22. The diaphragm 30 is wound around a sealing gasket 62 and then fixed between the parts 21 and 22 of the movable flange 20. This arrangement then defines a first level of sealing at the upper part of the valve 1. Also according to this embodiment, the valve 1 comprises a ferrule 40 and an intermediate armature 50 arranged concentrically to said ferrule 40, which defines a cylindrical wall arranged along the longitudinal direction of the valve 1.

[0122] In this embodiment, the ferrule 40 is integral with the fixed flange 10, and defines an "L" shape in its lower part 4L. The part 41 then serves as the lower part of the lower part 51 of the intermediate frame 50. A sealing gasket 61, around which the diaphragm 30 is wound, is arranged between the part 41 of the ferrule 40 and the part 51 of the intermediate frame 50. This arrangement thus defines a second level of sealing at the lower part of the valve 1. The part 41 of the ferrule 40 and the part 51 of the frame 50 are fixed to each other by fastening means 81, said means 81 also allowing this arrangement to be fixed to the movable flange 10.

[0123] In this figure, the fixed flange 10 also includes two superimposable parts defining an upper part 11 supporting the arrangement formed by the ferrule 40 and the intermediate frame 50, and a lower part 12 intended to be integral with the envelope 2 of an atmospheric balloon 4.

[0124] The movable flange also includes a sealing gasket 60 arranged between its upper part 11 and its lower part 12, thus defining a third level sealing at the interface between the fixed flange 10 and the casing 2 of an atmospheric balloon 4. The two parts 11 and 12 of the fixed flange 10 are fixed together and held on the casing 2 of the balloon 4 by fastening means 82.

[0125] In this embodiment, the ferrule 40 includes horizontal guide means 42 arranged along the longitudinal axis of the valve 1. The horizontal guide means 42 are fixed to the periphery of the ferrule 40 by fixing means 80.

[0126] The horizontal guide means 42 of the ferrule 40 are at a height substantially greater than the vertical guide means 52 of the intermediate reinforcement 50 so that the movable flange can be arranged to mesh between the guide means 42 and 52. Furthermore, the horizontal guide means 42 and the vertical guide means 52 each comprise ball bearings 43 and 53, respectively, at their upper ends. The ball bearings 53 of the vertical guide means 52 of the intermediate reinforcement 50 are inserted into a groove 24 located under the lower part 22 of the movable flange 20. In this way, the movable flange 20 bears against the vertical guide means 52 of the intermediate reinforcement 50.

[0127] The movable flange also includes a beveled portion 25 on the upper part 21 on which the ball bearings 43 of the horizontal guide means 42 of the ferrule 40 bear. In [Fig.5], the ball bearings 43 and 53 are oriented at an angle α of inclination of 45° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the valve 1 which also corresponds to the vertical axes defined by the horizontal guide means 42 and the vertical guide means 52.

[0128] Figure 6 illustrates an embodiment where the valve 1 includes an actuator 70 arranged on the ferrule 40. In this figure, the actuator 70 is mechanically connected to the toothed portion 23 of the movable flange 20 via a pinion 71. The actuator then allows the rotation of the movable flange 20 relative to the fixed flange 10 of the valve 1 according to the invention.

Claims

1. Demands Valve (1) for regulating gas contained in the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, said valve extending in a longitudinal direction and characterized in that it comprises: • a fixed flange (10) intended to be attached to the envelope of said balloon, • a movable flange (20) relative to the fixed flange (10), extending opposite said fixed flange (10) and spaced from the latter along the longitudinal direction, • a flexible gas-tight membrane (30) extending between the fixed flange (10) and the movable flange (20), said membrane (30) being attached respectively to each of the flanges (10, 20), and defining a gas circulation channel between the fixed flange (10) and the movable flange (20), • means for rotating the movable flange (20) relative to the fixed flange (10) between a position, called the open position (30a), in which a flow of gas can circulate in said circulation channel formed by said diaphragm (30), and a position, called the closed position (30b), obtained by twisting said diaphragm (30) according to a hyperboloid structure which prevents any circulation of gas through said valve (1), • a ferrule (40) integral with the fixed flange (10), said ferrule (40) defining a cylindrical wall arranged longitudinally between the fixed flange (10) and the movable flange (20), • an intermediate armature (50), removably mounted on the fixed flange (10) and extending concentrically inside the cylindrical wall forming the ferrule (40), said armature (50) being arranged between the fixed flange (10) and the movable flange (20), • horizontal guiding means (42) and vertical guiding means (52) for the rotation of the movable flange (20) relative to the fixed flange (10), said horizontal guiding means (42) and vertical guiding means (52) being respectively carried by the ferrule (40) and the intermediate frame (50).

2. Valve according to claim 1, characterized in that the movable flange (20) comprises two parts (21, 22) between which are arranged a sealing gasket (63) and the flexible diaphragm (30), said two parts (21, 22) being configured to allow the attachment of the flexible diaphragm (30) to the movable flange (20).

3. Valve according to claim 2, characterized in that the fixed flange (10) and the intermediate frame form two parts (11, 12) between which are arranged a sealing gasket and the flexible membrane, said two parts (11, 12) being configured to allow the attachment of the flexible membrane (30) to the fixed flange (10).

4. Valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the means for rotating the movable flange comprise at least one actuator (70) mechanically connected to the movable flange (20), said actuator (70) being configured to move the movable flange (20) relative to the fixed flange (10) between said open position (30a) and said closed position (30b).

5. Valve according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the horizontal (42) and vertical (52) guiding means comprise anti-friction devices in contact with the movable flange (20).

6. Valve according to claim 5, characterized in that the movable flange (20) includes a groove (24) formed on the lower face in which the anti-friction devices of the vertical guide means (52) are housed.

7. Valve according to claim 6, characterized in that the movable flange (20) comprises a beveled portion (25) on the upper face in which the anti-friction devices of the horizontal guiding means (42) bear.

8. Valve according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the diaphragm (30) extends, in open position, along the longitudinal direction by a length L defined by the following relation [Math 1]: [Math.1] L + where d corresponds to the distance between the movable flange (20) and the fixed flange (10) and D corresponds to the diameter of the movable flange (20).

9. Atmospheric balloon (4) comprising an envelope (2) for containing a gas, a gas regulating valve contained in said envelope, environmental sensors and a control module, said balloon being characterized in that said regulating valve is a valve (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and in that said valve (1) is positioned at the top of the envelope (2) of the balloon (4).

10. Atmospheric balloon according to claim 9, characterized in that the control module is configured to control the rotation of the movable flange (20) of the valve (1) relative to the fixed flange (10) as a function of data from environmental sensors.

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