POSITIONING DEVICE IN A FLUID PIPELINE AND LEAK-STOPPING DEVICE COMPRISING IT

Abstract

TITLE OF THE INVENTION: POSITIONING DEVICE IN A FLUID PIPELINE AND LEAK-STOPPING DEVICE COMPRISING THEREOF The positioning device (60) in a fluid pipe (11) of predetermined internal radius (R) comprises: - a cylindrical support tube (62) extending along a central axis, - a plurality of flexible strips (65) mechanically connected to the support tube, and - a means for separating, from the axis of the support tube, a first part of at least one flexible strip of said plurality of flexible strips, by applying an external separating force to this strip, from a folded configuration to a deployed configuration in which this first part of the flexible strip is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined internal radius of the pipe.The spreading means comprises at least one ring (61) movable relative to the support tube, this movable ring bearing against a second portion of each flexible slat to be spread apart, this bearing causing, during the movement of the movable ring, the spreading of the first portion of each said flexible slat. Figure 10 for the abbreviated version.

Description

Title of the invention: POSITIONING DEVICE IN A FLUID PIPELINE AND LEAKAGE STOPPER DEVICE COMPRISING IT Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for stopping a leak in a fluid pipeline. It applies, in particular, to stopping the flow of a gas in the event of a leak in the pipeline downstream of the stop device. More specifically, the present invention applies to securing an existing natural gas delivery pipeline by inserting the stop device into this pipeline upstream of a gas meter. State of the art

[0002] It is sometimes necessary to position a fixed instrument, for example a sensor, in a fluid pipe, without opening the wall of this pipe, for example because it is buried.

[0003] Certain fluid distribution networks justify special safety measures, imposed by the nature of the fluid transported and by possible risks of damage to the pipes of which these networks are made up.

[0004] For example, gas distribution networks in urban areas generally extend under roads and sidewalks, that is to say under works in the public domain which may be subject to various interventions, and in particular earthworks.

[0005] However, if a gas pipe is accidentally torn out or cut during such an operation, the resulting gas leak immediately presents a high risk of fire or explosion.

[0006] In this context, safety valves have been developed to shut off gas pipelines as soon as an abnormally high gas flow is detected. To date, however, safety valves can only be easily installed on new networks under construction, or possibly on existing networks, but only during their renovation. Indeed, since the pipelines of existing networks may have been built at different times and according to different standards, and their diameters may not be precisely defined, and they may have obstacles, burrs, crushing, restrictions, and varying radii of curvature along their length, installing a safety valve in an existing network remains a delicate operation. The main difficulty stems from the need to carry out excavation for access the connection point and perform a plugging operation under pressure to work on the connection without gas. Summary of the invention

[0007] The invention aims to overcome all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art. To this end, the present invention relates to a device for positioning a payload in a pipeline and an excess flow control device for stopping leakage in a fluid pipeline. These devices can be installed, without excavation, in most known fluid network pipelines, including pipelines with small radii of curvature, for example, on the order of ten times the diameter of the pipeline. The present invention also relates to a control device operating in circular pipes with a radius within a range of radii, pipes which may be flattened and therefore have an elliptical cross-section, the small and large radii of which are within this range of radii.The present invention also relates to a device configured to be inserted into a pipe by following its wall, even if the latter presents obstacles, burrs, restrictions or bends.

[0008] The present invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a positioning device in a fluid pipeline of predetermined internal radius R, which comprises: - a plurality of flexible slats mechanically connected to the support tube, and - a means for separating, from the axis of the support tube, a first part of at least one flexible slat of said plurality of flexible slats, by applying an external separating force to this slat, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat is at a distance from the axis of the support tube less than the predetermined internal radius of the pipeline, to an deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined internal radius of the pipeline, a device in which the separating means comprises at least one ring movable relative to the support tube,This movable ring rests against a second part of each flexible slat to be spread apart; this resting action causes the first part of each flexible slat to spread apart as the movable ring moves.

[0009] The first part of the flexible slats, in the deployed configuration, applies a static friction force to the inner wall of the fluid pipe, which has the effect of making the positioning device fixed to the pipe in translation and rotation. Due to these friction forces, the entire device, as well as the payload it carries, is held in position within the pipe.

[0010] This payload can be a sensor, for example, for the speed, temperature, or pressure of a fluid flow inside the pipe. This payload can also be a valve that automatically closes when the speed of the fluid flow inside the pipe exceeds a predetermined value.

[0011] In embodiments, the movable ring is configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, rotate around the axis of the support tube, the support of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing a movement of the first part of each flexible slat in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the support tube.

[0012] In embodiments, the movable ring has cams bearing on one end of the flexible slats.

[0013] In embodiments, each flexible slat is mounted on a pivot joint with pivot axis parallel to the axis of the support tube, the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, rotate around the axis of the support tube, the support of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing the pivoting of each flexible slat around the pivot joint.

[0014] In embodiments, each flexible slat is positioned in a through opening of the support tube, the end of each flexible slat closest to the axis of the support tube being retained by the movable ring, the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the force external to the flexible slats, rotate around the axis of the support tube, the bearing of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing the free end of each flexible slat to slide in the through opening of the support tube in which this flexible slat is positioned.

[0015] In embodiments, each flexible slat extends, parallel to the axis of the support tube, on either side of the movable ring, the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the force external to the flexible slats, rotate around the axis of the support tube, the support of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing a movement of the flexible slat from a position coplanar with the axis of the support tube to a position not coplanar with the axis of the support tube.

[0016] In some embodiments, each flexible slat is carried by a rod extending between the movable ring and another ring, the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, rotate around the axis of the support tube, the bearing of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing a movement of the flexible slat from a non- coplanar with the axis of the support tube until a position coplanar with the axis of the support tube.

[0017] In embodiments, the movable ring is configured to slide on the support tube parallel to the axis of the support tube, the movable ring carrying a cam configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, move the flexible slat away from the axis of the support tube.

[0018] In embodiments, each flexible slat is mounted on a pivot joint whose pivot axis is in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the support tube, the movable ring being configured to slide on the support tube parallel to the axis of the support tube and press on an end of the flexible slat opposite, with respect to the pivot joint, the free end of the flexible slat.

[0019] In embodiments, the movable ring is supported on one end of each flexible slat, the other end of which is held in position, the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, cause the flexible slats to bend until their central part is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined internal radius of the pipeline.

[0020] In embodiments, at least one flexible slat is part of a fan washer and has one end on the surface of the support tube and a free end subjected to an internal elastic restoring force towards an intermediate configuration in which the free end of the flexible slat is at a distance from the axis of the support tube greater than the distance between the free end of said flexible slat and the axis of the support tube in the folded configuration, the spreading means being configured to spread this flexible slat from the intermediate configuration to the deployed configuration and to apply a bending force to it around the point of contact of the spreading means with this flexible slat.

[0021] In embodiments, at least one flexible slat is part of a fan washer and has one end on the surface of the support tube and a free end subjected to an elastic restoring force towards an intermediate configuration in which the free end of the flexible slat is at a distance from the axis of the support tube greater than the distance between the free end of said flexible slat and the axis of the support tube in the folded configuration, the spreading means being configured to spread this flexible slat from the intermediate configuration to the deployed configuration and to apply a bending force to it around the point of contact of the spreading means with this flexible slat.

[0022] In embodiments, the device of the invention further comprises a retaining sleeve for the flexible slats under internal stress in the folded configuration, this sleeve being configured to perform a translation parallel to the axis of the support tube and move away from these flexible slats.

[0023] In embodiments, the sheath has a cylindrical shape with a generatrix parallel to the axis of the support tube, the internal surface of the sheath being in contact with the free ends of the flexible slats during said translation of the sheath.

[0024] In embodiments, the device of the invention further comprises a lip seal held compressed by the sleeve before the translation of the sleeve applying the spreading force to the flexible lamellae, said translation moving the sleeve away from the lip seal, this lip seal being configured to seal the channel between the support tube and the inner wall of the channel after the sleeve is moved away from this lip seal.

[0025] In embodiments, the movable ring includes a spring mounted in tension or compression on the support tube, and held by a trigger, an external force to the device causing the trigger to move from a position in which it holds the spring to a position in which it releases the spring, the change in elongation of the spring then applying at least part of the spreading force on the flexible slats.

[0026] In embodiments, the free end of each flexible strip has a non-slip pad on its external surface.

[0027] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a stop device comprising the positioning device that is the subject of the invention, causing the stoppage of a leak in the pipeline when the fluid flow rate in this pipeline exceeds a predetermined value, this stop device having an axis of rotational symmetry, this device comprising: - the lip seal fixed hermetically to the outer wall of the support tube, such that, when the lip seal is in the deployed configuration, the only fluid passing through the stop device flows solely within the support tube, and - a shutter opposite the upstream end of the support tube, retained by a return means in a first position away from the upstream end of the support tube, this shutter providing a surface on which a drag force is exerted by the fluid flow along this shutter in this first position, the return means being configured so that, when the flow rate is less than the predetermined value, the shutter remains in the first position and, when the flow rate is greater than the predetermined value, the shutter moves to a second position in which the shutter obstructs the upstream end of the support tube,The pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the device corresponds to this flow rate exceeding the predetermined value, thus holding the shutter in the second position.

[0028] Thanks to these provisions, the stop device of the invention can be compact enough to be inserted, without excavation, into most network pipes of known fluids, including in pipes with small radii of curvature. The lip seal prevents fluid from escaping the support tube. Thanks to this lip seal, the device functions in circular pipes with a radius within a specified range, even if the pipes are compressed and therefore have an elliptical cross-section, where both the minor and major radii fall within this range.

[0029] When the fluid flow rate is lower than the predetermined value, the obturator remains in a position where fluid flows through the support tube. However, when the fluid flow rate exceeds the predetermined value, particularly in the event of a significant leak in the pipeline downstream of the device, the obturator moves to a second position where it blocks the upstream end of the support tube, thus preventing fluid flow in the pipeline from upstream to downstream of the device. The positioning device holds the stop device in position within the pipeline by means of the contact of the free end of the flexible blades against the inner wall of the pipeline.

[0030] Thus, in the event of a simultaneous occurrence of a sudden leak on the pipe downstream of the device and an overpressure upstream, when the obturator is closed, the "water hammer" caused by this closure cannot cause the stop device to detach from the pipe wall, which ensures the preservation of its function of sealing this pipe in the event of a leak. Brief description of the figures

[0031] Other advantages, purposes and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description, given for explanatory purposes and in no way limiting the effect of the accompanying drawings, in which: [Fig. 1] represents, in side view on its lower half and in cross-section on its upper half, a first embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention in an initial folded configuration before deployment, [Fig.2] shows, in a side view of its lower half and in cross-section of its upper half, the positioning device illustrated in [Fig.1], in a final deployed configuration, [Fig.3] shows, in side view on its lower half and in cross-section on its upper half, a second embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention in an initial folded configuration, [Fig.4] shows, in side view on its lower half and in cross-section on its upper half, the device illustrated in [Fig.3] in an intermediate configuration, [Fig.5] shows, in side view on its lower half and in cross-section on its upper half, the device illustrated in [Fig.3] and [Fig.4] in a deployed configuration, [Fig.6] shows, in side view on its lower half and in cross-section on its upper half, a third embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention in an initial folded configuration, [Fig.7] shows, in side view on its lower half and in cross-section on its upper half, the device illustrated in [Fig.6] in a deployed configuration, [Fig.8] shows, in cross-section, a fourth embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention, in its initial folded configuration, [Fig.9] shows, in cross-section, the device illustrated in [Fig.8], in a deployed configuration. [Fig. 10] shows, in cross-section, a fifth embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention, in its initial folded configuration, [Fig.11] shows, in cross-section, a variant of the device illustrated in [Fig.10], in its initial folded configuration. [Fig. 12] shows, in cross-section, a sixth embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention, in its initial folded configuration, [Fig.13] shows, in cross-section, the device illustrated in [Fig.12], in a deployed configuration. [Fig. 14] shows, in cross-section, a seventh embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention, in its initial folded configuration, [Fig.15] shows, in cross-section, the device illustrated in [Fig.14], in a deployed configuration. [Fig. 16] shows, in cross-section, an eighth embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention, in its initial folded configuration, [Fig.17] shows, in cross-section, the device illustrated in [Fig.16], in a deployed configuration. [Fig. 18] shows, in cross-section, a ninth embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention, in its initial folded configuration, [Fig. 19] shows, in cross-section, the device illustrated in [Fig. 18], in a deployed configuration, [Fig.20] shows, in cross-section, a tenth embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention, in its initial folded configuration, [Fig.21] shows, in cross-section, the device illustrated in [Fig.20], in a deployed configuration. [Fig.22] shows, in cross-section, an eleventh embodiment of a positioning device that is the subject of the invention, in its initial folded configuration, [Fig.23] shows, in cross-section, the device illustrated in [Fig.22], in a deployed configuration. [Fig.24] represents, in axial section, a twelfth embodiment of the positioning device of the invention, in its folded configuration within a pipe, [Fig.25] represents, in axial section, the positioning device illustrated in [Fig.24], in its deployed configuration before removal of an insertion sleeve from the pipe, [Fig.26] represents, in axial section, the positioning device illustrated in [Fig.25], in its deployed configuration after removal of an insertion sleeve from the pipeline, [Fig.27] represents, in axial section, a first variant of the twelfth embodiment of the positioning device, in its deployed configuration, [Fig.28] represents, in axial section, a second variant of the twelfth embodiment of the positioning device, in its folded configuration, [Fig. 29] shows, in axial section, a thirteenth embodiment of the positioning device of the invention, in its folded configuration within a conduit; [Fig. 30] shows, in axial section, the positioning device illustrated in [Fig. 29], in its deployed configuration. [Fig.31] represents, in partial axial section, a fourteenth embodiment of a stop device of the invention, having flexible folded strips, and a device for installing the stop device in a pipe, [Fig.32] represents, in partial axial section, the stop device illustrated in [Fig.31], showing deployed flexible blades, and the device for installing the stop device in a pipeline, [Fig.33] represents, in partial axial section, the stop device illustrated in [Fig.32], showing an unfolded lip seal, and the setting device being withdrawn, [Fig. 34] shows, in exploded view, components of a particular embodiment of a stopping device that is the subject of the invention, [Fig.35] represents, in side view on its upper half and in cross-section on its lower half, the downstream part of a particular embodiment of a stop device that is the subject of the invention, in its configuration deployed in support on the internal wall of a pipe of predetermined radius, [Fig.36] represents, in side view on its upper half and in cross-section on its lower half, the downstream part of a particular embodiment of a stop device of the invention, in its deployed configuration before a leak occurs on the pipeline downstream of the stop device, [Fig.37] shows, in side view for the left part and in cross-section for the right part, a lip seal and a retaining ring of the downstream part of a particular embodiment of the stopping device which is the subject of the invention, [Fig. 38] shows, in cross-section, a seal holder of the downstream part of a particular embodiment of the stopping device that is the subject of the invention, [Fig. 39] shows, in side view, a shutter guide of the upstream part of a particular embodiment of the stopping device which is the subject of the invention, [Fig.40] shows, in cross-section, the shutter guide illustrated in [Fig.39], [Fig.41] shows, in perspective, a shutter seat of the stopping device illustrated in [Fig.34], and [Fig.42] represents, in the form of a flowchart, the manufacturing, configuration and installation steps of a stop device that is the subject of the invention in a pipeline. Description of the implementation methods

[0032] Throughout the description, the following terms are used: - "upstream" the direction from which the fluid that passes through the device that is the subject of the invention originates, - “downstream” the direction in which the fluid flows through the device that is the subject of the invention, - “tube axis”, “device axis” or “central axis of the pipeline”, an axis of symmetry by rotation of the tube, device or pipeline, respectively, which are generally coincident once the device comprising the tube is positioned in the pipeline, - “folded configuration”, a configuration in which the flexible components of the device are folded by an insertion and implantation sleeve for the device in the predetermined pipeline, - "deployed configuration", a configuration in which the flexible components of the device are free from any contact with, or resting against, the inner wall of a predetermined pipe, and - “radial”, in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the device and passing through this axis.

[0033] It is noted from the outset that figures 1 to 33 are not to scale, but that each of figures 34 to 41 is to scale, even if the scales of these different figures may be different.

[0034] In all the figures, the conduit in which the positioning device or the stopping device that is the subject of the invention is positioned is cylindrical, and It has a circular guide with a predetermined internal radius R. The positioning or stopping device is dimensioned according to this internal radius R.

[0035] A positioning device 10 is observed in [Fig. 1] within a pipe 11. The positioning device 10 comprises a support tube 12 (only a cross-section of one wall of which is shown in [Fig. 1]), preferably cylindrical with a circular direction. The central axis of the support tube 12 (and of the device 10) coincides, in Figures 1 to 33, with the central axis of the pipe 11, for clarity, as these axes coincide once the positioning device 10 is fixed to the pipe 11.

[0036] The support tube 12 has, on its external surface, a first locking means 13, in the form of an annular radial extension extending beyond this external surface. The support tube 12 has, on its external surface, a second locking means, in the form of an annular radial extension formed within this external surface.

[0037] Flexible strips 15 have a free end, downstream (on the right in Figures 1 to 7) and a fixed end, upstream. In this embodiment, the flexible strips are part of a fan washer 16 which has a central annular portion fixed to the support tube 12 and the flexible strips extending in a star shape from the fixed portion.

[0038] Preferably, each flexible slat 15 is elastically deformable and has a fixed end relative to the support tube 12 and a free end subjected to an internal elastic restoring force towards an intermediate configuration close to or in contact with the internal wall of the pipe 11.

[0039] This fan washer 16 is preferably made by cutting and then folding a flat metal plate, which makes this fan washer 16 lose elasticity, then annealing each slat 15, which gives this slat 15 shape memory.

[0040] A sheath 18 surrounds at least part of each flexible lamella 15.

[0041] To insert the positioning device 10 into the pipe 11 without excavation, each slat 15 of a fan washer 16 is compressed towards the axis of the support tube 12 with this sleeve 18. This compression allows the positioning device 10 to move inside the pipe 11 before it is put in place, even if the internal wall of this pipe 11 has obstacles, burrs, restrictions or bends.

[0042] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the sleeve 18 has lateral openings 19 for the passage of the flexible strips 15. These openings 19 have, in Figures 1 and 2, a rectangular shape with their longer sides parallel to the axis of the positioning device. In alternative embodiments, the openings 19 have a different shape, for example, trapezoidal. Preferably, and as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the openings 19 have upstream and downstream edges whose axial section is beveled.

[0043] Under the action of a force 17, the sleeve slides in translation on the external surface of the flexible slats 15 towards their fixed end. Preferably, the flexible slats 15 have been constrained to enter the sleeve 18. In this case, during the translation of the sleeve 18, which increases the surface area of ​​the openings 19 opposite the flexible slats 15, the free ends of the flexible slats 15 move away from the support tube 12 due to elasticity.

[0044] Whether or not the flexible slats 15 have been pre-stressed in the sleeve 18, when the downstream edge of the openings 19 reaches the flexible slats 15 and continues its translational movement towards their fixed ends, the sleeve 18 causes the flexible slats 15 to spread apart. During this spreading, the free ends of the flexible slats 15 reach the inner wall of the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig. 2]. The continued translational movement of the sleeve 18 causes an internal bending force on the flexible slats 15 around their point of contact with the sleeve 18 and the application of a radial centrifugal force from the free ends of the flexible slats 15 on this inner wall of the pipe 11.

[0045] In embodiments such as that described in Figures 1 and 2, the support tube 12 also supports a lip seal 14. The lip seal 14 is leak-proof to the fluid flowing in the pipe 11 and elastically deformable from a folded configuration in the sleeve 18, near the axis of the support tube 12, to a deployed configuration, in the absence of the sleeve 18, in which the maximum radius of the lip seal 14 is at least equal to the predetermined internal radius of the pipe 11.

[0046] This lip seal 14 is initially compressed in the sleeve 18. During the translation of the sleeve 18, this lip seal 14 is released from this compression and unfolds until it seals the pipe 11 over its entire cross-section from the support tube 12 to the inner wall of the pipe 11. This lip seal 14 thus contributes to maintaining the position of the positioning device 10 by preventing a tilting during which its central axis would deviate from that of the pipe 11.

[0047] In the first embodiment of the spacing device 10 illustrated in figures 1 and 2, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 12, a first part of at least one flexible slat 15, by applying an external spacing force to this slat 15, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 15 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 12 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 15 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 12 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0048] In the first embodiment, the first part of each flexible strip 15 is its free end. The spreading means comprises at least one ring movable relative to the support tube 12. This movable ring is formed by the sleeve 18. This movable ring 18 bears against a second part of each flexible strip 15. This second part is successively the free end of the flexible strip 15 and then its central part, intermediate between its free end and its fixed base. The bearing of the movable ring 18 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 18, the spreading of the first part of each flexible strip 15.

[0049] A positioning device 20 is observed in [Fig. 3] within a pipe 11. The positioning device 20 comprises a support tube 12 (only a cross-section of one wall of which is shown in [Fig. 3]), preferably cylindrical with a circular direction. The positioning device 20 has the same elements as the positioning device 10, except that the sleeve 28 does not have a lateral opening 19 and the flexible strips 25 are necessarily prestressed.

[0050] Under the action of an initial force 21, the sleeve 28 slides in translation downstream (to the right in Figures 3 to 5) until the slats 25 are released from its grip. Since the flexible slats 25 were constrained to enter the sleeve 18, due to elasticity, the free ends of the flexible slats 25 then move away from the support tube 12. The flexible slats 25 then assume an intermediate configuration, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. In this intermediate configuration, their free end is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 12 that is less than, equal to, or greater than the predetermined radius R of the pipe 11. If the positioning device 20 is in such a pipe 11, the free ends of the flexible slats 25 are close to or in contact with the inner wall of the pipe 11.

[0051] When free from any external constraint, as in the intermediate configuration illustrated in [Fig. 4], each flexible strip 15 extends in a plane passing through the axis of rotational symmetry of the positioning device 10 and exhibits, from its base in contact with the fixed part of the fan washer 16 to its free end, a radius of curvature. Preferably, this radius of curvature varies by a multiplicative factor less than or equal to two, that is, the ratio of its maximum value to its minimum value is less than or equal to two. The radius of curvature preferentially increases from its minimum value to its maximum value, starting from the base of the flexible strip 15 towards its free end.

[0052] Thanks to its curvature, the flexible strip 15 can slide on an internal or external wall of a sheath 18.

[0053] In some embodiments, in its intermediate configuration, the radius of curvature of at least one flexible strip 15 is an increasing function of the distance to the axis of the support tube 12. This increase in the radius of curvature ensures that the bending resistance of each part of the slat increases with the moment of the static friction force exerted by the inner wall of the pipe 11 on that part of the slat. The retention capacity of the positioning device 10 in the pipe 11 is thus reinforced.

[0054] In some embodiments, in its intermediate configuration, the radius of curvature of at least one flexible strip 15 is a decreasing function of the width of this flexible strip 15, measured perpendicular to the plane passing through the axis of the support tube 12. This decrease ensures that the bending resistance of each part of the flexible strip 15 increases with the moment of the static friction force exerted by the inner wall of the pipe 11 on that part of the strip. The retention capacity of the positioning device 10 in the pipe 11 is thus enhanced.

[0055] With the free end of at least one flexible slat 15 resting on the inner wall of the pipe 11 of predetermined radius R, the acute angle between the tangent to the slat 15 in the plane passing through the axis of rotational symmetry of the support tube 12 and the wall of this pipe 11 is preferably greater than 25 degrees.

[0056] Then, under the action of a force 22, in the opposite direction to the force 21, the sleeve 28 slides in translation upstream. When the upstream edge of the sleeve 28 reaches the flexible slats 25 and continues its translational movement towards the fixed ends of the flexible slats 25, the sleeve 28 amplifies the separation of the flexible slats 25.

[0057] During this separation, if the free ends of the flexible strips 25 were not already in contact with the inner wall of the pipe 11 in the intermediate configuration, these free ends of the flexible strips 25 reach the inner wall of the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. The translational movement of the sleeve 28 after the contact of the ends of the flexible strips with the inner wall of the pipe 11 causes an internal bending force on the flexible strips 25 around the point of contact of the sleeve 28 and the application of a radial centrifugal force from the free ends of the flexible strips 25 on this inner wall of the pipe 11.

[0058] In the second embodiment of the spacing device 20 illustrated in Figures 3 to 5, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 12, a first part of at least one flexible strip 25, by applying an external spacing force to this strip 25, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible strip 25 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 12 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to an extended configuration, in which this first part of the flexible strip 25 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 12 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0059] In the second embodiment, the first part of each flexible strip 25 is its free end. The spreading means comprises at least one ring movable relative to the support tube 12. This movable ring is formed by the sleeve 28. This movable ring 28 bears against a second part of each flexible strip 25. This second part is the central portion of the flexible strip 25, intermediate between its free end and its fixed base. The bearing of the movable ring 28 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 28, the spreading of the first part of each flexible strip 25.

[0060] In embodiments such as those described in Figures 1 to 7, the support tube 12 also supports a lip seal 14. This lip seal 14 is initially compressed within the sleeve 18 or 28. During the upstream translation of the sleeve 18 or 28, this lip seal 14 is released from this compression and expands to seal the pipe 11 over its entire cross-section from the support tube 12 to the inner wall of the pipe 11. This lip seal 14 thus contributes to maintaining the position of the positioning device 20 by preventing a tilting during which its central axis would deviate from that of the pipe 11.

[0061] For the application of at least one of the forces 17, 21, and 22, the positioning device 10 or 20 may include at least one spring mounted in compression on the support tube 12. This spring may be held in compression by a trigger (not shown). For example, this trigger may be a pin, a radially movable rod protruding inside and outside the support tube 12, this pin being able to be removed by the action of a force external to the device 10 or 20. More generally, a force external to the device 10 or 20 causes the trigger to move from a position in which it holds the spring in compression to a position in which it releases the spring. The spring then extends and applies at least part of the force that sets the sleeve 18 or 28 in motion.

[0062] Of course, in other variants, a spring is mounted under tension on the support tube 12, and, after release by the trigger, causes the same translation of the sheath 18 or 28.

[0063] Preferably, a second locking means (not shown) holds the sleeve 18 or 28 in contact with the flexible strips 15 or 25. A spring as described above can form this locking means. Alternatively, a flexible blade of the support tube 12, the free end of which has a radial extension, can be used to implement this second locking means. During upstream translation of the sleeve 18 or 28, this radial extension of the flexible blade engages with the downstream edge of the sleeve 18 or 28 and prevents it from moving backward.

[0064] Each flexible strip 15 or 25 is then found in a deployed configuration illustrated in [Fig.2] or [Fig.5], in which: - the fixed end of the flexible slat 15 or 25 is retained by the first locking means 13, - the free end of the flexible strip 15 or 25 rests against the inner wall of the pipe 11, and - an intermediate part of the flexible slat 15 or 25 is held in flexion by the second locking means comprising the sleeve 18 or 28.

[0065] A positioning device 23 is observed in [Fig. 6] within a pipe 11. The positioning device 23 comprises a support tube 27 (only a cross-section of one wall of which is shown in [Fig. 6]), preferably cylindrical with a circular direction. The positioning device 23 has the same elements as the positioning device 20, except that a helical spring 24 is positioned between the sleeve 28 and the support tube 27. Furthermore, this helical spring 24 is positioned, under compression, between the free ends of the flexible strips 25 and a stop 26 formed on the outer wall of the support tube 27.

[0066] Under the action of a force 29, the sleeve 28 slides in translation downstream (to the right in Figures 3 to 5) until the slats 25 are released from its grip. Since the flexible slats 25 were constrained to enter the sleeve 18, due to elasticity, the free ends of the flexible slats 25 then move away from the support tube 27. The flexible slats 25 then assume an intermediate configuration, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. The spring 24 then relaxes and amplifies the separation of the flexible slats 25.

[0067] During this separation, if the free ends of the flexible slats 25 were not already in contact with the inner wall of the pipe 11 in the intermediate configuration, these free ends of the flexible slats 25 reach the inner wall of the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig. 7]. The translational movement of the sleeve 28 after the contact of the ends of the flexible slats 25 with the inner wall of the pipe 11 causes an internal bending force on the flexible slats 25 around the point of contact of the spring 24 and the application of a radial centrifugal force by the free ends of the flexible slats 25 on this inner wall of the pipe 11. The sleeve 28 can then be withdrawn from the pipe 11. The spring 24 then constitutes the second means of locking the free ends of the flexible slats 25 against the inner wall of the pipe 11 under bending force.

[0068] In this third embodiment, the spreading means comprises the spring 24 mounted under compression on the support tube 27, and retained by the sleeve 28 constituting a trigger. The action of the force 29, external to the device, causes this trigger to move from a position in which it retains the spring ([Fig. 6]) to a position in which it releases the spring ([Fig. 7]), the change in elongation of the spring 24 then applying at least part of the spreading force on the flexible slats 25.

[0069] In the third embodiment of the spacing device 23 illustrated in figures 6 and 7, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 27, a first part of at least one flexible slat 25, by applying an external spacing force to this slat 25, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 25 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 27 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 25 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 27 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0070] In the third embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 25 is its free end. The spreading means comprises at least one ring movable relative to the support tube 27. This movable ring is formed by the spring 24. This movable ring 24 bears against a second part of each flexible slat 15. This second part is the central portion of the flexible slat 25, intermediate between its free end and its fixed base. The bearing of the movable ring 24 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 24, the spreading of the first part of each flexible slat 25.

[0071] As an alternative to this third embodiment, an additional ring is

[0072] interposed between the spring 24 and the flexible slats 25.

[0073] The fourth embodiment 50 of a positioning device of the invention is illustrated in Figures 8 (folded configuration) and 9 (extended configuration). The device 50 comprises, within a support tube 53, a cam wheel 51 52 against which flexible slats 55 bear. In the folded configuration, illustrated in [Fig. 8], the flexible slats 55 bear against the wheel 51 between two cams 52. The slats 55 are therefore folded towards the axis of the support tube 53.

[0074] In the deployed configuration, illustrated in [Fig.9], the wheel 51a rotates under the action of an external force on the flexible slats 55, a force for example applied by a spring, so that the flexible slats 55 are in contact with the cams 52 of the wheel 51. The slats 55 are therefore moved away from the axis of the support tube 53 and reach the inner wall of the pipe 11.

[0075] In the fourth embodiment of the spacing device 50 illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 53, a first part of at least one flexible strip 55, by applying an external spacing force to this strip 55, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible strip 55 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 53 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, up to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 55 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 53 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0076] In the fourth embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 55 is its free end. The spreading means comprises at least one ring movable relative to the support tube 53. This movable ring is formed by the cam wheel 51 52. This movable ring 51 bears against a second part of each flexible slat 15. This second part is the end of the flexible slat 55 opposite its free end. The bearing of the movable ring 51 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 51, the spreading of the first part of each flexible slat 55.

[0077] The fifth embodiment 60 of a positioning device of the invention is illustrated in Figures 10 (folded configuration) and 11 (extended configuration). The device 60 comprises, on the outer wall of a support tube 62, a movable ring 61 carrying a cam 64. The support tube 62 also carries a cam 63 at its end opposite the movable ring 61. Flexible strips 65 are held in contact with the oblique surface of the cams 63 and 64. In the folded configuration, illustrated in [Fig. 10], the cams 63 and 64 are spread apart and the flexible strips 65 are in contact with their surface closest to the axis of the support tube 62. The strips 65 are therefore folded towards the axis of the support tube 62.

[0078] In the deployed configuration, illustrated in [Fig. 11], the movable ring 61 has been moved, under the action of a force 67 external to the flexible slats 65, a force for example applied by a spring, towards the cam 63 of the support tube 62. So that the flexible slats 65 are in contact with the surfaces of the cams 63 and 64 furthest from the axis of the support tube 62. The slats 65 then reach the inner wall of the pipe 11.

[0079] In the fifth embodiment of the spacing device 60 illustrated in figures 10 and 11, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 62, a first part of at least one flexible slat 65, by applying the external spacing force 67 to this slat 65, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 65 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 62 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 65 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 62 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0080] In the fifth embodiment, the first part of each flexible strip 65 is its outer surface. The spacing means comprises the ring 61 movable relative to the support tube 62. This movable ring 61 rests on a second part of each flexible slat 65. This second part is a circular edge of the inner surface of the flexible slat 65. The support of the movable ring 61 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 61, the separation of the first part of each flexible slat 65.

[0081] In the embodiment shown in Figures 10 and 11, the support tube 62 has, on its outer face, an annular notch 66 and the movable ring 61 has a locking means in the notch 66, in the form of radial extensions 68 of free ends of flexible blades sliding on the outer face of the support tube 62. As illustrated in [Fig. 11], the locking of the movable ring 61 in the notch 66 occurs when the flexible blades 65 are in contact with the inner wall of the pipe 11.

[0082] The sixth embodiment 70 of a positioning device of the invention is illustrated in Figures 12 (folded configuration) and 13 (extended configuration). The device 70 comprises, on the outer wall of a support tube (not shown), two rings 71 and 72. At least one of the rings 71 and 72 is movable relative to the support tube, rotating about the axis of the support tube. Straight rods 73 connect the rings 71 and 72 and carry flexible blades 75. Naturally, both rings 71 and 72 can rotate about the axis of the support tube.

[0083] In the folded configuration, illustrated in [Fig. 12], the rods 73 are not coplanar with the axis of the support tube. Their centers are thus closer to the axis of the support tube than their ends carried by the rings 71 and 72. The flexible strips 75 are thus retracted towards the axis of the support tube.

[0084] In its deployed configuration, illustrated in [Fig. 13], the movable ring 72 was rotated by an external force acting on the flexible strips 75, for example, a spring, such that the rods 73 are parallel to the axis of the support tube. The flexible strips 75 are thus moved away from the axis of the support tube and bear against the inner wall of the pipe 11.

[0085] In the sixth embodiment of the spacing device 70 illustrated in figures 12 and 13, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube, a first part of at least one flexible slat 75, by applying an external spacing force to this slat 75, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 75 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 75 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0086] In the sixth embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 75 is its free end. The spacing means comprises at least one ring 72 movable relative to the support tube. This movable ring 72 is, via rods 73, bearing on a second part of each flexible slat 75. This second part is the central part of the flexible slat 75. The support of the movable ring 72 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 72, the separation of the first part of each flexible slat 75.

[0087] The positioning device 70 according to the sixth embodiment has, in particular, the advantage that its length measured parallel to the axis of the support tube is reduced, which improves its compactness.

[0088] In an alternative to this sixth embodiment, the rods 73 are flexible and form flexible strips. The rings 71 and 72 are at a constant distance, measured parallel to the axis of the support tube. During rotation of the movable ring 72, the flexible strips 73 undergo bending such that their central portion comes into contact with the inner wall of the pipe 11, as described with the twelfth, thirteenth, and fourteenth embodiments, opposite Figures 24 to 33.

[0089] The connections between the rods 73 and each of the rings 71 and 72 are ball joints. It should be noted that the distance between the rings 71 and 72, measured parallel to the axis of the support tube, can be variable, as illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, or fixed. In the latter case, the rods 73 slide in through-holes in at least one of the two rings 71 and 72.

[0090] The seventh embodiment 76 of a positioning device of the invention is illustrated in Figures 14 (folded configuration) and 15 (deployed configuration). The device 76 comprises, on the outer wall of a support tube (not shown), two rings 77 and 78. At least one of the rings, 77 and / or 78, is movable relative to the support tube, rotating about the axis of the support tube.

[0091] Of course, the two rings 77 and 78 can be mobile in rotation around the axis of the support tube.

[0092] Flexible lamellae 79 pass through conical through openings in the rings 77 and 78 and protrude from these rings, upstream and downstream.

[0093] In the folded configuration, illustrated in [Fig. 14], the flexible slats 79 are coplanar with the axis of the support tube. The flexible slats 75 are thus retracted towards the axis of the support tube.

[0094] In its deployed configuration, illustrated in [Fig. 15], the movable ring 78 was rotated by an external force acting on the flexible blades 79, for example, a spring, such that the flexible blades are no longer parallel to the axis of the support tube. The ends of the flexible blades 79 are thus moved away from the axis of the support tube and bear against the inner wall of the pipe 11.

[0095] In the seventh embodiment of the spacing device 76 illustrated in Figures 14 and 15, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube, a first part of at least one flexible slat 79, by applying an external spreading force to this slat 79, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 79 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 79 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11.

[0096] In the seventh embodiment, the first part of each flexible strip 79 is one or the other of its free ends. The spreading means comprises at least one ring 78 movable relative to the support tube. This movable ring 78 bears against a second part of each flexible strip 79. This second part is an intermediate portion between the ends of the flexible strip 79. The bearing of the movable ring 78 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 78, the spreading of the first part of each flexible strip 79.

[0097] The connections between the flexible slats 79 and each of the rings 77 and 78 are ball joints. It should be noted that the distance between the rings 77 and 78, measured parallel to the axis of the support tube, can be variable, as illustrated in Figures 14 and 15, or fixed. In the latter case, the flexible slats 79 slide in through-holes in at least one of the two rings 77 and 78.

[0098] Alternatively, the flexible lamellae 79 extend further from one of the rings 77 or 78 than from the other ring, 78 and 77, respectively. In this case, the flexible lamellae 79 touch the inner wall of the pipe 11 at their end furthest from one of the rings 77 and 78.

[0099] The eighth embodiment 80 of a positioning device of the invention is illustrated in Figures 16 (folded configuration) and 17 (deployed configuration). The device 80 comprises, on the outer wall of a support tube 82, flexible strips 85 that rotate about axes of rotation 83. The flexible strips 85 have an end 84 closer to the axis of the support tube than the pivot axis 83. This end 84 provides a lever arm for a force parallel to the axis of the support tube 82 in the direction of bringing this fixed end closer to the axis of the support tube 82. In the example shown in Figures 16 and 17, the flexible strips 85 have a beveled end 84 opposite a ring 81 that moves in translation on the support tube 82.

[0100] Under the action of a force 87 external to the flexible slats 85, the movable ring 81 moves towards this beveled end 84 and causes the rotation of each flexible slat 85 in such a way that its free end 89 (opposite to its beveled end 84) comes to rest on the inner wall of the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig. 17].

[0101] In the eighth embodiment of the spacing device 80 illustrated in figures 16 and 17, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 82, a first part of at least one flexible slat 85, by applying an external spacing force 87 to this slat 85, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 85 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 82 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 85 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 82 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11.

[0102] In the eighth embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 85 is its free end 89. The spacing means comprises at least the ring 81 movable relative to the support tube 82. This movable ring 81 bears against a second part 84 of each flexible slat 85. The bearing of the movable ring 81 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 81, the spacing of the first part of each flexible slat 85.

[0103] It should be noted that the pivot joint 83 is not necessarily materialized by an axis of rotation. The elasticity of the base of each flexible slat 85 may be sufficient to ensure this pivot joint function, by deformation under the effect of the force exerted by the movable ring 81.

[0104] In the embodiment shown in figures 16 and 17, the support tube 82 has, on its external face, an annular notch 86 and the movable ring 81 has a tooth 88 configured to penetrate into this annular notch once the free end 89 of each flexible lamella 85 is in contact with the internal wall of the conduit. For this purpose, each tooth 88 is flexible or the ring 81 is flexible.

[0105] The ninth embodiment 90 of a positioning device of the invention is illustrated in Figures 18 (folded configuration) and 19 (extended configuration). In the folded configuration, the device 90 comprises, inside a support tube 92, flexible strips 95, one end of which is mounted on a pivot joint 94 of a movable ring 91. The other, free end of the flexible strips 95 is located in a through opening 93 of the support tube 92.

[0106] Under the action of a force 97 external to the flexible slats 95, the movable ring 91 is set in rotation and causes the free end of the flexible slats 95 to slide in the through openings 93 of the support tube 92, until this free end of the flexible slats 95 is in contact with the inner wall of the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig. 19].

[0107] In the ninth embodiment of the spacing device 90 illustrated in Figures 18 and 19, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 92, a first part of at least one flexible strip 95, by applying a force 97 external spacing to this slat 95, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 95 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 92 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 95 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 92 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11.

[0108] In the ninth embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 95 is its free end. The spreading means comprises at least the ring 91, which is movable relative to the support tube 92. This movable ring 91 bears against a second part of each flexible slat 95. This second part is successively the free end of the flexible slat 95 and then the central part of the flexible slat 95, intermediate between its free end and its base mounted on the pivot joint 94. The bearing of the movable ring 91 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 91, the spreading of the first part of each flexible slat 95.

[0109] It should be noted that the pivot joint 94 is not necessarily materialized by an axis of rotation. The elasticity of the base of a flexible strip 95 may be sufficient to ensure this pivot joint function, by deformation under the effect of the force exerted by the rotation of the movable ring 91.

[0110] The tenth embodiment 100 of a positioning device of the invention is illustrated in Figures 20 (folded configuration) and 21 (extended configuration). A central portion of the flexible slats 105 is mounted on a pivot joint 103 of a support tube 102. An inner end of the flexible slats 105 is mounted in a sliding joint between lugs 104 of a ring 101 that rotates about the axis of the support tube 102. The other, free end of the flexible slats 105 extends outside the support tube 102. [YES] Under the action of a force 107 external to the flexible slats 105, the movable ring 101 is set in rotation and causes the inner end of the flexible slats 105 to slide between the lugs 104, which causes the pivot joint 103 to rotate. The free end of the flexible slats 105 then pivots until it comes to rest on the inner wall of the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig.21].

[0112] In the tenth embodiment of the spacing device 100 illustrated in Figures 20 and 21, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 102, a first part of at least one flexible strip 105, by applying an external spacing force to this strip 105, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible strip 105 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 102 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to an extended configuration, in which this first part of the flexible strip 105 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 102 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0113] In the tenth embodiment, the first part of each flexible strip 105 is its free end. The spreading means comprises at least the ring 101, which is movable relative to the support tube 102. This movable ring 101 bears against a second part of each flexible strip 105. This second part is the portion of the flexible strip 105 extending into the support tube 102 from the pivot joint 103. The bearing of the lugs 104 on the movable ring 101 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 101, the spreading of the first part of each flexible strip 105.

[0114] The eleventh embodiment 106 of a positioning device of the invention is illustrated in Figures 22 (folded configuration) and 23 (deployed configuration). As in the tenth embodiment, a central portion of the flexible slats 105 is mounted on a pivot joint 103 of a support tube 102. An inner end of the flexible slats 105 carries a lug 108 mounted in a sliding joint in slots 109 of a ring 101 that rotates about the axis of the support tube 102. The other, free end of the flexible slats 105 extends out of the support tube 102.

[0115] Under the action of an external force on the flexible slats 105, the movable ring 101 is set in rotation and causes the inner end of the flexible slats 105 to slide in the sliding joint, which causes the pivot joint 103 to rotate. The free end of the flexible slats 105 then pivots until it comes to rest on the inner wall of the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig.23].

[0116] In the eleventh embodiment of the spacing device 106 illustrated in figures 22 and 23, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 102, a first part of at least one flexible slat 105, by applying an external spacing force to this slat 105, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 105 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 102 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 105 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 102 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0117] In the eleventh embodiment, the first part of each flexible strip 105 is its free end. The spreading means comprises at least the ring 101, which is movable relative to the support tube 102. This movable ring 101 bears against a second part of each flexible strip 105. This second part is the lug 108 on the end of the flexible strip 105 opposite its free end. The bearing of the movable ring 101 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 101, the spreading of the first part of each flexible strip 105.

[0118] It is noted that, in the ninth, tenth and eleventh embodiments, the roles of the support tube, 92 or 102, and of the movable ring, 91 or 101 respectively, can be interchanged, the movable ring then being, after interchange, outside the support tube.

[0119] In axial section [Fig. 24], a positioning device 110 is observed in a pipe 11. The positioning device 110 comprises a support tube 112, preferably cylindrical with a circular direction. The central axis of the support tube 112 (and of the device 110) is shown in Figures 24 to 33. In Figures 24 and 25, it coincides with the central axis of the pipe 11 to facilitate understanding of the operation of the positioning device, since these axes coincide once the positioning device 110 is fixed to the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig. 26].

[0120] The support tube 112 has, on its outer surface, a first locking means 113 in the form of a radial extension, preferably annular, extending beyond this outer surface. In Figures 24 to 27, this first locking means 113 is positioned at the end of the support tube 112. Of course, the first locking means 113 can be positioned at other locations on this outer surface and can take other forms, for example, protruding lugs on the outer surface of the support tube 112. The support tube 112 has, on its outer surface, a second locking means 114 in the form of an annular groove formed in this outer surface. Alternatively, at least one of the locking means is independent of the support tube 112.

[0121] Flexible strips 115 are located, in a sliding connection, on the external surface of the support tube 112. These flexible strips 115 thus have two ends that are far apart along the axis of the support tube 112. In a first implementation, these flexible strips 115 are independent of each other and guided by grooves (not shown) in the support tube 112. In a second implementation, the flexible strips 115 are held together by a clamping collar, for example, a circlip. In a third implementation, the flexible strips 115 are formed flat by stamping a sheet of metal, together with a circular mechanical connection between them. Then, the metal part comprising these flexible strips and the mechanical connection is bent to assume a general cylindrical shape in which the free ends of the flexible strips are at a distance from the axis of this cylinder less than or equal to the distance between their connected ends.The free end of the flexible strips thus obtained can remain free or be retained with a circlip or a weld on a washer or a ring. In a fourth implementation, the flexible strips 115 are cut flat and then joined, at least one of their ends, by a ring crimped so as to enclose the flexible strips 115. In a fifth implementation, the flexible lamellae 115 are formed by linear cuts of a cylindrical tube made of flexible material parallel to the axis of this tube.

[0122] It is noted that two wide flexible strips 115 (for example, with a width measured in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the support tube 112 between one third of the external diameter of the support tube and this external diameter) could suffice for positioning the device 110 in the pipe 11. However, preferably, the number of flexible strips 115 is at least three and, even more preferably, at least five.

[0123] A movable ring 116 is also mounted, in a sliding connection, on the support tube 112. This movable ring 116 is part of a means for compressing each flexible strip 115 along an axis parallel to the axis of the support tube 112. As shown in [Fig. 25], under the action of a force 117 external to the device 110 (represented by an arrow in [Fig. 24]), the movable ring 116 slides towards the first locking means 113 and causes, first, one end of the flexible strips 115 to bear against the first locking means 113, then the application on each flexible strip 115 of a force parallel to a straight line passing through the ends of this flexible strip, and the bending of the flexible strips 115. A portion of the flexible strips 115, the intermediate part between their ends, comes into contact with the inner surface of the pipe 11.The force 117 then causes the deformation of this intermediate part so that the flexible strips 115 apply a radial force on the inner wall of the pipe 11, which ensures the existence of a static friction force retaining the device 110 in the pipe 11. Finally, the force 117 brings the end of each flexible strip 115 opposite the first locking means 113 to the side of the second locking means 114, in which this end becomes locked.

[0124] Each flexible slat 115 then finds itself in a flexed configuration, in which: - one end of the flexible strip 115 is held by the first locking means 113, - a second end of the flexible strip 115 is retained by a second locking means 114 and - an intermediate part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined radius R, therefore in contact with the inner wall of a pipe of internal radius R if the positioning device is in such a pipe.

[0125] As illustrated in [Fig.26], the movable ring 116 can then be removed.

[0126] Preferably, when folded onto the support tube 112, the flexible strips 115 have a slight bend, slightly spreading their intermediate portions towards the inner wall of the pipe 11. This avoids the risk of bending towards the tube support and then buckling of the flexible slats 115 under the action of the external force 117. This slight bending of the flexible slats in the folded state can be achieved during their manufacture. It can also be achieved by constraint within a sleeve, as explained below. It can also be achieved by the effect of a slight overthickness of the support tube 112 at the resting point of their intermediate sections.

[0127] In embodiment 110, the second locking means 114 has a groove into which the second end of each flexible slat 115 enters when it is in a flexed configuration.

[0128] In the twelfth embodiment of the spacing device 110 illustrated in figures 24 to 26, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 112, a first part of at least one flexible slat 115, by applying an external spacing force to this slat 115, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 112 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 112 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0129] In the twelfth embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 115 is its central portion. The spacing means comprises at least the ring 116, which is movable relative to the support tube 112. This movable ring 116 bears against a second portion of each flexible slat 115. This second portion is an end of the flexible slat 115. The bearing of the movable ring 116 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 116, the spacing of the first portion of each flexible slat 115.

[0130] As illustrated in [Fig. 27], in variant 118 of the device, the compression means comprises a spring 119 mounted in compression on the support tube 129, each end of which has a radial extension, preferably annular, and is retained by a trigger (not shown). For example, this trigger is a pin, a movable rod radially protruding both inside and outside the support tube 129, this pin being able to be withdrawn by the action of a force external to the device 118. More generally, a force external to the device 118 causes the trigger to move from a position in which it retains the spring 119 in compression to a position in which it releases the spring 119.The spring 119 then lengthens and applies at least part of the compression force of the flexible slats 115 parallel to a straight line passing through their ends, causing them to bend, until their end opposite the first locking means 113 locks into the second locking means 114.

[0131] In this first variant 118 of the twelfth embodiment of the spacing device illustrated in [Fig.27], a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 112, a first part of at least one flexible slat 115, by applying an external spacing force to this slat 115, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 112 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 112 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0132] In this first embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 25 is its central portion. The spacing means comprises at least one movable ring relative to the support tube 112. This movable ring is formed by the spring 119. This movable ring 119 bears against a second portion of each flexible slat 115. This second portion is an end of the flexible slat 115. The bearing of the movable ring 119 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 119, the spacing of the first portion of each flexible slat 115.

[0133] Alternatively, an additional ring is interposed between the spring 119 and the flexible slats 115.

[0134] As illustrated in [Fig.28], in variant 121 of the device, the compression means comprises a spring 119 mounted in compression on the support tube 129 and held by a trigger consisting of a clip 125. This clip 125 can be opened, as shown by the arrows, under the action of a force external to the device 121, to move the trigger from a position in which it holds the spring 119 compressed as illustrated in [Fig.28] to a position in which the spring 119 is released. The spring 119 then extends and applies, on each flexible slat 115, at least a part of the compression force parallel to a straight line passing through the ends of this flexible slat 115, participating in its bending, by means of a movable ring 128 mounted in a sliding connection on the support tube 129. The flexible slats 115 then take the configuration illustrated in [Fig.25].In this variant, the second locking means consists of the spring 119 and the movable ring 128.

[0135] Of course, in other variants, a spring is mounted under tension on the support tube 129, for example between the flexible slats 115 and the support tube 129, and, after release by the trigger, causes the same flexion of the flexible slats 115.

[0136] In this second variant 121 of the twelfth embodiment of the spacing device illustrated in [Fig. 28], a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 129, a first part of at least one flexible strip 115, by application of an external spreading force to this slat 115, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 129 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 129 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11.

[0137] In this second embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 115 is its central portion. The spacing means comprises at least the ring 128, which is movable relative to the support tube 129. This movable ring 128 bears against a second portion of each flexible slat 115. This second portion is an end of the flexible slat 115. The bearing of the movable ring 128 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 128, the spacing of the first portion of each flexible slat 115.

[0138] In axial section [Fig. 29], a positioning device 120 is observed in the pipe 11. The positioning device 120 comprises a support tube 122. In this embodiment, the support tube 122 has flexible blades. As illustrated in [Fig. 29], these flexible blades are configured to flex towards the central axis of the device 120. The central axis of the support tube 122 (and of the device 120) coincides, in [Fig. 29], with the central axis of the pipe 11, for clarity, since these axes coincide once the positioning device 120 is fixed to the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig. 30]. The support tube 122 has, on its external surface, a first locking means 123, in the form of a radial extension, preferably annular, extending beyond this external surface. In figures 29 and 30, this first locking means 123 is positioned at the external end of the support tube 122 which does not have flexible blades.Of course, the first locking means 123 can be positioned at other locations on this external surface and take other forms, for example, protruding lugs on the external surface of the support tube 122. The support tube 122 has, on its external surface, a second locking means 124, in the form of radial extensions of the free ends of the flexible blades. Alternatively, at least one of the locking means is independent of the support tube 112.

[0139] Flexible slats 115 are mounted, in a sliding connection, on the external surface of the support tube 122. A movable ring 126 is mounted, in a sliding connection, on the flexible slats of the support tube 122. This movable ring 126 extends from the support tube 122 on the side opposite the first locking means 123. The movable ring 126 is part of a means for compressing each flexible slat 115 along an axis parallel to the axis of the support tube 122. As shown in [Fig. 30], under the action of a force 127 (represented by an arrow in [Fig. 29]), the movable ring 126 slides on the flexible slats of the support tube 122 towards the first locking means 123 and causes, First, one end of the flexible blades 115 rests on the first locking means 123. Then, by applying a force parallel to a straight line passing through each end of each flexible blade 115, bending each flexible blade 115. A portion of the flexible blades 115, the intermediate part between their ends, comes into contact with the inner surface of the pipe 11. The force 127 then causes the deformation of this intermediate part so that the flexible blades 115 apply a radial force to the inner wall of the pipe 11, thus ensuring the existence of a static friction force retaining the device 120 within the pipe 11. Finally, the force 127 moves the end of each flexible blade of the support tube 122 beyond the movable ring 126.These flexible blades relax and the second locking means 114, which includes the movable ring 126 and these flexible blades, locks the end of each flexible blade 115 opposite the first locking means.

[0140] Each flexible lamella 115 is then found in a flexural configuration illustrated in [Fig.30], in which: - one end of the flexible strip 115 is held by the first locking means 123, - a second end of the flexible blade 115 is retained by a second locking means comprising the movable ring 126 and the radial extensions 124 of the flexible blades of the support tube 122 and - an intermediate part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined radius R, therefore in contact with the inner wall of a pipe 11 of internal radius R if the positioning device is in such a pipe.

[0141] Of course, in variants similar to variants 118 and 121 illustrated in figures 27 and 28 for the first embodiment of the invention, a spring of the device 120 causes the application of a force parallel to a straight line passing through their ends on the flexible strips 115, after triggering by a trigger actuated by a force external to the device 120.

[0142] In embodiment 120, the support tube 122 has flexible blades extending opposite the first locking means 123, the second locking means having a radial extension 124 of each flexible blade configured to extend behind the movable ring 126 when the blades 115 are in a flexed configuration.

[0143] Thus, in the absence of a force applying a compressive stress to the slats 115 parallel to a straight line connecting the ends of the slats 115, these slats 115 have a configuration close to that of the support tube. The positioning device is free to move within the pipe 11. Conversely, when a force is applied to the slats 115 parallel to a straight line connecting the ends of the slats 115, the flexible slats 115 are compressed along the longitudinal axis of the support tube, deform in bending in such a way that their intermediate parts between their ends come into contact with the internal wall of the pipe 11 and their ends are held locked in position by the locking means even in the absence of the maintenance of the force which participated in bending the flexible slats 115.

[0144] Due to the friction forces of the intermediate parts of the flexible slats 115 bearing on the inner wall of the pipe 11, the entire device is held in position in the pipe, as well as the payload carried by this device.

[0145] This payload can be a sensor, for example, for the speed, temperature, or pressure of a fluid flow inside the pipeline. This payload can also be a valve that automatically closes when the speed of the fluid flow inside the pipeline exceeds a predetermined value, as described opposite Figures 34 to 41.

[0146] In embodiments 110, 120 and 121, the compression means comprises a movable ring, 116, 126 or 128 respectively, in translation on the external wall of the support tube, 112, 122 or 129 respectively, this movable ring being supported on the second end of each flexible slat 115, the compression force of the slats parallel to a straight line connecting their ends being applied, on the one hand, to the support tube and, on the other hand, to this movable ring.

[0147] In some embodiments, the intermediate portion of each flexible strip 115 has a non-slip pad on its external surface. This non-slip pad can be achieved by surface treatment and / or by the presence of a raised feature, for example, protrusions small enough to elastically deform the internal wall of the pipe 11 without damaging it.

[0148] In some embodiments (not shown), the positioning device includes a breaking element configured to apply external force to the device until the flexible slats reach their flexed configuration and then to break when both ends of the flexible slats are held by the two locking means. For example, this breakage is achieved by pulling on a positioning rod of the positioning device with a tensile force exceeding the resistance of a weak point in the breaking element.

[0149] According to another example, the breaking element compresses the slats 115 under the action of the external force on the device until they reach their flexed configuration, then breaks when the two ends of the slats are held by the two locking means, for example by increasing the external force to an intensity causing the rupture of a weak point in the element of rupture. For example, this rupture element is connected to a rod extending to an opening in the pipe 11, allowing the positioning device (and its payload) to slide into its operating position. This rod has a moving part, for example a piston or a cable, which applies the external force to the positioning device. Once the deployed configuration (Figures 26, 27, or 30) is achieved and the ends of the flexible slats are held by the locking means, the increase in external force causes a break in the connection between the moving part and the positioning device, thus allowing the rod to be withdrawn.

[0150] In some embodiments (not shown), each flexible strip 115 is, before the application of the external force to the device, compressed from a free configuration where they are radially deployed, to a configuration folded towards the external surface of the support tube. An external sleeve for these flexible strips 115 is then placed around these folded flexible strips 115 and retains them in the folded configuration. Within this sleeve, the elasticity of each flexible strip 115 tends to deform it towards the flexed configuration. The external force on the device causes the sleeve to move so that it no longer retains the flexible strips 115. The deformation of each flexible strip 115 then occurs towards its flexed configuration under the action of its elasticity.

[0151] This deformation can be accentuated by external force, for example by means of a spring of the device, as shown opposite [Fig.27].

[0152] In the thirteenth embodiment of the spacing device 120 illustrated in figures 29 and 30, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 122, a first part of at least one flexible slat 115, by applying an external spacing force to this slat 115, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 122 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 122 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipe 11.

[0153] In the thirteenth embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 115 is its central portion. The spacing means includes at least the ring 126, which is movable relative to the support tube 122. This second portion is an end of the flexible slat 115. The support of the movable ring 126 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 126, the spacing of the first part of each flexible slat 115.

[0154] As described with the stop device, opposite Figures 34 to 41, in embodiments, the positioning device may further comprise a lip seal, leak-proof to the fluid flowing in the pipeline, elastically deformable from a folded configuration in the sleeve, close to the axis of the support tube, to a deployed configuration, in the absence of the sleeve, in which the maximum radius of the lip seal is at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline.

[0155] This lip seal can be deployed simultaneously with the flexible strips, for example by being supported by these flexible strips, or independently, for example when removing a sheath.

[0156] Figure 31 shows, in partial axial section, an embodiment of a stop device 130 of the invention comprising a positioning device 160 of the invention. In this initial configuration, the stop device 130 has been inserted into the pipeline 11 to its operating location. The positioning device 160 then has folded flexible blades 115. A positioning system 168 to 177 ensures the positioning of the stop device 130 by applying an external force to the positioning device, as illustrated in Figure 32, and is then removed from the pipeline 11, as illustrated in Figure 33.

[0157] The positioning device 160 comprises the support tube 162, the first locking means 163, the flexible slats 115, and the second locking means comprising the movable ring 165 slidably mounted on the support tube 162 and flexible slats of the support tube 162 terminating in radial extensions configured to retain the movable ring 165 in position after the flexible slats 115 have been flexed (see [Fig. 32]). The positioning device 160 also comprises a lip seal 140 mounted on the external surface of the movable ring 165. The movable ring 165 has, on its internal surface, a housing for an O-ring 166.

[0158] In addition to the positioning device 160, the device 130 for stopping a leak in the fluid line 11 comprises, successively from upstream to downstream of the fluid flow, an inlet nozzle 131, a shut-off spring 133, a shut-off guide 132, and a shut-off seat 134. A movable shut-off 135 carrying an O-ring 136 and positioned in the shut-off guide 132 is returned to this guide 132 by the shut-off spring 133. The characteristics and interactions of these components are detailed with reference to Figures 34 to 4L.

[0159] The installation system comprises a cylindrical sleeve 168 carrying a mechanism, 170, 172, 173 and 177, for pulling the flexible blades 164, on the one hand, and a rod 174 in which a cable 175 slides, on the other hand. The mechanism for pulling the flexible blades 164 comprises plates 170, each having a curved groove 173 of constant width, in which lateral lugs 172 of a lever 177 slide, the free end of which has a radial extension configured to bear against an internal shoulder of the support tube 162 and retain the flexible blades 164.

[0160] Initially, the sleeve 168 surrounds the lip seal 140. The sleeve 168 has an upstream flat annular partition 169 which is initially supported on the downstream face of the movable ring 165, an intermediate flat annular partition 171 which secures the traction mechanism to the sleeve 168 and a downstream annular partition secured to the ring 174, by means of a stop 176.

[0161] As illustrated in [Fig. 31], before the application of a force 167, the flexible strips 115 are held at their upstream ends by the first locking means 163 and, at their downstream ends, rest against the upstream face of the movable ring 165. Furthermore, the radial extensions of the levers 177 retain the flexible blades 164 of the support tube 162. Thus, the movements of the flexible rod 174 are transmitted to the positioning device 160, whether these movements are upstream or downstream of the pipeline 11. The sliding of the flexible rod 174 thus allows the stopping device 130 to be precisely positioned in the pipeline 11.

[0162] When the force 167 is applied by the flexible cable 175, this force 167 causes the movable ring 165 to slide upstream relative to the support tube 162 held by the radial extensions of the levers 177. This sliding of the movable ring 165 causes the flexible blades 115 to bend until they exert a radial force on the inner wall of the pipe 11, as illustrated in [Fig. 32]. Once the movable ring 165 has passed the radial extensions of the flexible blades 164, these blades spread apart, due to their elasticity, along the downstream face of the movable ring 165 and thus lock the flexible blades 115 in a flexed position by means of the second locking mechanism.

[0163] The continued application of force 167 then causes, by means of the sliding of the lugs 172 in the groove 173, the tilting of the levers 177 towards the central axis of the pipeline 11 and the separation of the radial extensions of the flexible blades 164 from the support tube 162, as illustrated in [Fig.32].

[0164] By then pulling on the rod 174 downstream of the pipe 11, the sleeve 168 slides on the lip seal 140 until it moves away from it and allows its deployment until it makes watertight contact with the inner wall of the pipe 11. As illustrated in [Fig.33], continuing to pull on the rod 174 allows it to be removed from the pipe 11.

[0165] Preferably, the O-ring 166 is located upstream of the entire length of the flexible blades of the support tube 162 once the stop device 130 is positioned in the pipeline, as shown in [Fig. 33]. This prevents fluid leakage between the flexible blades.

[0166] In the fourteenth embodiment of the spacing device 130 illustrated in Figures 31 to 33, a spacing means separates, from the axis of the support tube 162, a first part of at least one flexible strip 115, by applying a force external spacing to this slat 115, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 162 less than the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11, to a deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat 115 is at a distance from the axis of the support tube 162 at least equal to the predetermined internal radius R of the pipeline 11.

[0167] In the fourteenth embodiment, the first part of each flexible slat 115 is its central portion. The spacing means comprises at least the ring 165, which is movable relative to the support tube 162. This movable ring 165 bears against a second portion of each flexible slat 115. This second portion is an end of the flexible slat 115. The bearing of the movable ring 165 causes, during the movement of the movable ring 165, the spacing of the first portion of each flexible slat 115.

[0168] In each of the embodiments presented above, in the absence of force exerted on the positioning device 10, 20, 23, 50, 60, 70, 76, 80, 90, 100, 106, 110, 118, 120, 121 and 130, the flexible slats have a folded configuration close to the support tube. The positioning device is free to move within the pipe 11. Conversely, when a force is applied by a means of separating a first part of at least one flexible slat from the axis of the support tube, by applying an external separating force to this slat, the flexible slats deform in bending in such a way that these first parts come into contact with the inner wall of the pipe 11. This bending force of the flexible slats results from a force directed towards the inner wall of the pipe 11, exerted by the separating means.

[0169] Due to the friction forces of the first part of the flexible slats 15 or 25 bearing on the inner wall of the pipe 11, the entire positioning device is held in position in the pipe 11, as well as the payload carried by this device.

[0170] This payload can be a sensor, for example, for the speed, temperature, or pressure of a fluid flow inside the pipe. This payload can also be a valve that closes automatically when the speed of the fluid flow inside the pipe exceeds a predetermined value, as described opposite Figures 34 to 4L.

[0171] In some embodiments (not shown), the free end of each flexible strip 15 or 25 has a non-slip pad on its external surface. This non-slip pad can be achieved by surface treatment and / or by the presence of a raised feature, for example, protrusions small enough to elastically deform the inner wall of the pipe 11 without damaging it.

[0172] In some embodiments (not shown), the positioning device includes a breaking element configured to apply external force to the device until the flexible slats reach their deployed configuration and then to break when the flexible slats are held in this deployed configuration by means of a spreader or locking means. For example, this breaking is achieved by pulling on a positioning rod of the positioning device with a tensile force exceeding the resistance of a weak point in the breaking element. This rod includes a movable part, for example a piston or a cable, which applies the external force to the positioning device. Once the deployed configuration of the flexible slats is reached, the increase in external force causes a connection between the movable part and the positioning device to break, thus allowing the rod to be withdrawn.

[0173] The positioning device installation system may include a cylindrical tube with the same internal and external radii as the sleeve, and a rod in which a cable and / or piston slides. By acting on this cable or piston, the cylindrical tube of the installation system pushes the sleeve upstream to apply one force and, if necessary, downstream to apply another force. The installation system is then removed by simply sliding it into the pipe 11. In this case, the cylindrical tube of the installation system replaces the sleeve to compress the lip seal 14 and then release it when the installation system is removed.

[0174] All embodiments of the positioning device described above include a movable ring, in translation and / or rotation, relative to a support tube. Naturally, by means of cams, the translational and rotational movements can be interchanged. In all embodiments, the application of an external force to the flexible slats can be achieved by using a pre-stressed spring that is released by a movable actuator or by using a coaxial ring, as described above for some of the embodiments. In all embodiments featuring a spring bearing on the flexible slats, the end of this spring bearing on the flexible slats constitutes a movable ring and, by extension, the spring includes or constitutes this movable ring.Alternatively, an additional ring (not shown), inserted between this end of the spring and the flexible strips, acts as a movable ring.

[0175] Figure 34 shows the main components of a stop device 30 and an arrow representing the direction of fluid flow from upstream, on the right, to downstream, on the left. Along the axis of rotational symmetry illustrated in Figure 34, one observes, successively from upstream to downstream, an inlet nozzle 31, a shutter spring 33, a shutter guide 32, a shutter seat 34, a spacer 38, a positioning device of which only the support tube 39 also forms a carrier The seal is shown, a lip seal 40 and a retaining ring 41. Apart from this sequence are a movable obturator 35, an O-ring 36 and a fan washer 37. The characteristics and interactions of these components are detailed with regard to figures 35 to 41. Their dimensions are adapted for installation and operation in a pipeline of predetermined radius, in which a predetermined fluid, for example a gas, flows under a predetermined pressure, for example four or six bar.

[0176] As illustrated in [Fig. 35], the downstream portion of the shut-off device 30 is built on the support and seal-carrying tube 39. This support tube 39 includes a tubular channel 398 having upstream and downstream ends open to the passage of fluid. This tubular channel 398 of the support tube 39 has a diameter configured so that the pressure drop due to the presence of the shut-off device 30 in the predetermined pipeline 25, under a minimum operating pressure, is less than one-quarter, and preferably one-sixth, of this minimum operating pressure. This low pressure drop thus makes it possible to place two shut-off devices 30 one after the other in the pipeline 25 in case the first one is defective.

[0177] This support tube 39 carries an anchoring means configured to anchor the stop device 30 in the predetermined pipeline 25. In figures 34 to 41, a particular embodiment of this anchoring means consists of fan washers 37. The positioning device, which includes this anchoring means, can then be similar to one of the positioning devices 10, 20, 23 or 50 described above.

[0178] In [Fig.35], the downstream part is in deployed configuration, i.e. presents the deployment of the slats of each fan washer 37 which puts them in contact with the inner wall of a pipe 25 of predetermined radius R under the action of a spreading means and then a locking means in deployed configuration, as described opposite figures 1 to 33. Each fan washer 37 has the functions of centering the support tube 39 on the central axis of the pipe to be protected and of anchoring the stop device 30 on the inner wall of this pipe.

[0179] In this particular embodiment comprising three fan washers 37, this downstream portion includes, bearing against the upstream side of a stop 394 on the external surface of the support tube 39, a first spacer 38. A first fan washer 37 bears upstream on this first spacer 38. A second spacer 38 bears upstream on this first fan washer 37. A second fan washer 37 bears upstream on this second spacer 38. A third spacer 38 bears upstream on this second fan washer 37. Finally, a third fan washer 37 bears upstream on this third spacer 38. The spacers 38 serve to position the fan washers 37 at a distance from each other and with an angular offset between them. These two spacings, axial on the one hand and angular on the other hand, promote the folding of their elastic lamellae 371 along the external wall of the support tube 39 in the introduction sleeve, before its implantation in the pipeline to be protected.

[0180] At the downstream end of the support tube 39, the lip seal 40 and the retaining ring 4L are fixed. At the upstream end of the support tube 39, the shut-off seat 34 is fixed. The lip seal 40 has the function of closing the fluid flow over the entire radial section of the pipeline to be protected except in the radial section of the support tube 39. In other words, the fluid that passes through the shut-off device 30 travels through the internal volume of the support tube 39. The lip seal 40 also has the function of centering the downstream end of the support tube 39 on the central axis of the pipeline. The retaining ring 41 has the function of stiffening the lip seal 40 and preventing it from turning around under the effect of overpressure in the pipe protected by the stop device 30, in particular when the movable obturator 35 comes to seal the upstream end of the support tube 39, as explained below.

[0181] As illustrated in [Fig.36], the upstream part of the stop device 30 is constructed to allow the movable obturator 35 to obstruct the upstream end of the support tube 39 in the event of a leak downstream of the stop device 30.

[0182] The movable obturator 35 is located opposite the upstream end of the tubular channel 398. The movable obturator 35 is retained in the obturator guide 32 by a return means consisting of the spring 33, itself retained at its upstream end by a retaining ring 42 (not shown in [Fig. 34]). The movable obturator 35 is then in its initial position away from the upstream end of the tubular channel 398.

[0183] The movable obturator 35, equipped with the O-ring 36, provides a surface on which the fluid flow along this obturator 35 in this first position exerts a drag force.

[0184] The head 351 of the shutter 35 extends a movable body 353 in the shutter guide 32. This guide 32 includes a return means, in this example consisting of the spring 33.

[0185] The return means 33 is configured so that, when the flow rate inside the pipeline is less than a predetermined value, the movable obturator 35 remains in its first position. Conversely, when the flow rate in this pipeline is greater than the predetermined value, the movable obturator 35 moves and offers a larger bearing surface to the fluid. It continues its movement until it reaches a second position in which the head 351 of this movable obturator 35 obstructs the upstream end of the tubular channel 398. This predetermined value is reached, in particular, when there is a significant leak in the protected pipeline downstream of the shut-off device 30. For example, the predetermined value corresponds to a pressure difference between the upstream and downstream ends of the shut-off device 30 equal to half the upstream pressure.

[0186] The head 351 of the shutter 35 has a through opening 352 from a face oriented towards the upstream end of the support tube 39 to a face oriented towards the shutter guide.

[0187] This through-hole 352 serves to automatically reset the shut-off device 30 when the downstream leak is repaired. Resetting consists of the body of the movable shutter 35 returning to its position inside the shutter guide 32 when the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the shut-off device 30 falls below a predetermined value that depends on the restoring force exerted by the restoring means 33. In some embodiments, the movable shutter 35 does not have this through-hole; an increase in pressure downstream of the shut-off device 30 must necessarily be performed by an operator to reset the shut-off device 30.

[0188] The pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the shut-off device 30, corresponding to this flow rate exceeding the predetermined value, then holds the shutter in the second position. In practice, the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides is much greater than this predetermined value because, when the movable shutter 35 is closed, the downstream pressure is almost zero. As soon as this pressure difference returns to a value lower than a second predetermined value, for example, equal to the first predetermined value, the movable shutter 35 returns, under the effect of the return means 33, to its first position illustrated [Fig. 36].

[0189] In [Fig. 37], the lip seal 40 and the retaining ring 4L are shown. The lip seal 40 has a cylindrical peripheral portion 401 with a diameter equal to or slightly larger (for example, one to five percent larger) than the nominal diameter of the pipe to be protected. The lip seal 40 also has a cylindrical central portion 403 with a diameter equal to or smaller (for example, one to five percent smaller) than the diameter of the support tube 39. The central portion 403 of the lip seal 40 is fixed in a watertight manner to the outer wall of the tubular channel 398. The lip seal 40 also has a conical portion 402 connecting the peripheral portion 401 and the central portion 403.

[0190] The lip seal 40 is fixed to the support tube 39, which has the tubular channel 398 abutting the external annular stop 392 of the annular channel. The lip seal 40 has an internal shoulder 404 near this stop 392, such that, when this lip seal 40 is in a folded configuration (not shown) on the support tube 39, this internal shoulder 404 surrounds this external annular stop 392. This internal shoulder 404 allows the lip seal 40 to be compressed into a configuration where its external surface is practically cylindrical, so that the lamellae 412 of the retaining ring 41 can bear against this cylindrical surface without undergoing irreversible deformation. The deployment of the lip seal 40 is carried out Therefore, without deformation of the slats 412 after the positioning of the stop device 30 in this pipe 25. In [Fig. 37], the shoulder 404 has a flat, ring-shaped surface that bears against the stop 392 and extends radially beyond it, so that the thickness of the lip seal 40 is reduced at the end of this flat ring. A second part of the shoulder 404 is conical and joins the internal conical surface of the upstream face of the lip seal 40.

[0191] The material constituting parts 401, 402, and 403 is elastically deformable from a folded configuration along the outer wall of the support tube 39 to an extended configuration in which the radial extension of the lip seal is greater than the radial cross-section of the predetermined pipe 25. For example, the radius of part 401, measured from the axis of rotational symmetry of the stop device 30, is between one percent and five percent greater than the predetermined radius of the pipe 25. The peripheral part 401 is pressed tightly against the inner wall of the pipe 25. Consequently, the only fluid passing through the stop device 30 flows within the tubular channel 398 of the support tube 39.

[0192] The retaining ring 41 has a cylindrical central portion 411 configured so that the downstream end of the support tube 39 is crimped onto this central portion 411. It also has radial slats 412 extending from the central portion 411.

[0193] At least one of the radial slats 412 has, in its deployed configuration, a general planar symmetrical trapezoidal shape, the base of which is located on the central part 411. The radial extension of the slats 412 is, in the deployed configuration, equal to or greater than the radius R of the predetermined pipeline 25. For example, the radial extension of the slats 412 is, in this configuration, equal to or greater (for example, one to five percent greater) than the radius R of the pipeline 25 to be protected.

[0194] The free radial extension of the fins 412, equal to or greater than the predetermined radius of the pipe 25, ensures that the periphery of the lip seal 40 bears against the inner wall of the pipe 25 to be protected. In particular, the lip seal 40 alone, for example made of elastomeric material, cannot provide a good seal against pressurized fluid when the diameter of the pipe 25 is not precisely defined, or when the pipe has an irregularity, burr, crushing, or restriction. The retaining ring and its radial fins ensure a better seal of the lip seal in all these cases.

[0195] Thus, thanks to the lip seal 40 and the retaining ring 41, the stop device 30 operates in pipes 25 of circular cross-section having a radius within an extended radius range, pipes possibly crushed and consequently having an elliptical cross-section, the small radius and the large radius of which are within this extended radius range.

[0196] In embodiments, the radial extension of at least one slat 412 of the retaining ring 41, in the deployed configuration, is between one percent and five percent greater than the predetermined radius of the pipe 25. The bearing force of the periphery of the lip seal 40 on the inner wall of the pipe 25 is thus particularly high, and ensures a high seal of the junction of the lip seal 40 on the inner wall of the pipe 25.

[0197] In the embodiment shown in [Fig.37], the lip seal 40 has, in free configuration, a conical surface whose apex is on the downstream side of the lip seal 40, the retaining ring 41 being positioned on the downstream side of the lip seal.

[0198] Thus, the retaining ring 41 receives the lip seal 40 bearing on its radial fins 412. The maintenance of the conical shape of the lip seal 40 is thus ensured even when the pressure difference is high between the upstream and downstream sides of the stop device 30. In addition, thanks to the orientation of the conical shape of the lip seal 40 and the fins 412, an increase in this pressure causes an increase in the bearing force of the periphery of the lip seal 40 on the inner wall of the pipe 25.

[0199] In some embodiments, the retaining ring 41 is crimped onto the support tube 39 comprising the tubular channel 398. This type of fixing has the advantage of a reduced size and high mechanical resistance to pull-out.

[0200] Preferably, the thickness of the radial fins 412 of the retaining ring 41, measured perpendicular to the conical surface of the lip seal 40, is less than 0.3 mm. The fins 412 thus offer a good compromise between rigidity, to maintain the shape of the lip seal even in the event of a large pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the stop device, and flexibility allowing the radial fins of the retaining ring to fold parallel to the outer wall of the tubular channel.

[0201] It is noted that, preferably, the lugs 412 of the retaining ring 41 are connected to the lip seal 40 in such a way that they do not touch the inner wall of the pipe 25. In other words, the lip seal 40 extends radially beyond its connection with the end of the lugs 412. This geometric feature ensures that it is the only lip seal 40 that bears against the inner wall of the pipe 25 and thus ensures the sealing of its connection with this pipe 25.

[0202] The support tube 39 illustrated in [Fig. 38] has a generally cylindrical shape with a circular direction perpendicular to the axis of the stop device 30. The interior of this support tube 39 constitutes the tubular channel 398 for the passage of the fluid. On the external wall of this support tube 39, from upstream to downstream, there is an annular stop 394, which retains each fan washer 37 and each spacer 38. There is also an annular stop 392, similar to the annular stop 394, which retains the lip seal 40 and the retaining ring 4L. A zone 393 is located between the annular stops 392 and 394. The length of zone 393, measured parallel to the axis of the stop device 30, is such that the slats 371 of the fan washers 37 and the lip seal 40 do not touch when they are in their folded configuration along the outer wall of the support tube 39, for the purpose of their implantation in the pipeline to be protected.

[0203] A portion 391 of the support tube 39 is deformed during crimping to fix the seal 40 and its retaining ring 41 onto the support tube 39.

[0204] A chamfer 396 inside the support tube 39 extends the slope of the obturator seat 34 so as not to create a step for the flow and thus limit pressure losses.

[0205] An additional thickness 397, internal to the support tube 39, allows to give a little thickness to the wall of the support tube 39 to compensate for the material lost by the thread allowing the junction between this support tube 39 and the obturator seat 34.

[0206] Figures 39 and 40 show a guide 32 for a shutter 35. This guide 32 has an upstream cylindrical external surface 321, followed by a toroidal surface 322, and then a conical surface 323. This conical surface 323 constitutes all or part of a fluid flow deflector configured to reduce the drag force exerted by the fluid on the head of the shutter. This deflector limits the entrainment of the movable shutter 35 by the fluid flow when the shutter 35 is in its first position described above with respect to [Fig. 36]. Furthermore, thanks to this deflector 323, the fluid pressure loss due to the presence of the shut-off device 30 in the protected pipeline is reduced as long as the movable shutter 35 has not been triggered. On the downstream side, the guide 32 ends with a threaded cylindrical surface 324 for assembly with the obturator seat 34.

[0207] The fluid flow deflector reduces both the pressure loss between the upstream and downstream of the stop device 30, when the shutter 35 is open and the instability of this shutter 35 which could be caused by turbulence near its head 351.

[0208] A groove 325 allows for a through thread 324. The shutter seat 34 can thus be screwed and tightened onto the shutter guide 32 bearing against the shoulder 326, a through tap 341 of the shutter seat 34 also being a through tap.

[0209] The shutter seat 34 illustrated in [Fig. 41] has a threaded upstream opening 341 configured to assemble onto the threaded surface 324 of the guide 32. The shutter seat 34 has, on its outer surface surrounding the opening 341, a conical surface 342 extending from the conical surface 323 of the guide 32, when the guide 32 and the shutter seat 34 are assembled, as illustrated in [Fig. 36]. This conical surface 342 constitutes all or part of a flow deflector configured to reduce the drag force exerted by the fluid on the head 351 of the shutter 35.

[0210] Alternatively, only the shutter guide 32 or only the shutter seat 34 has a deflector. Thus, according to some embodiments, the shutter seat and / or the guide have, on their outer surface, a flow deflector configured to reduce the drag force exerted by the fluid on the shutter head.

[0211] Preferably, however, the flow deflector is carried by the shutter guide and the shutter seat. In the example shown, the deflector has a conical shape whose apex is located in the shutter guide.

[0212] In this example, the apex angle 327 (see [Fig. 36]) of the conical shape of the deflector is between 20 degrees and 40 degrees. The inventor has determined that these values ​​of angle 327 prevent the occurrence of turbulence detrimental to the operational stability of the obturator 35, while ensuring a low pressure drop due to the stop device 30. This low pressure drop thus makes it possible to place two stop devices 30 one after the other in the pipe 25, in case the first one is defective.

[0213] This fluid flow deflector has, in the example shown, a maximum diameter greater than three-quarters of the diameter of the seal 36 of the obturator 35. A drag force is thus maintained on the head 351 of the obturator 35 which carries this seal 36, in order to cause, when the flow rate is greater than the predetermined value, the displacement of the obturator 35 to its second position in which the head 351 and the seal 36 of the obturator 35 obstruct the upstream end of the tubular channel 398.

[0214] The conical surface 342 has the same angle and functions as the conical surface 323. Downstream of the conical surface 342, the obturator seat 34 has three lateral openings 343 that allow the fluid to pass towards the upstream end of the support tube 39. Three arches 344 separate these three lateral openings 343. The upstream faces 346 of the arches 344 extend, at a different apex angle, the conical surface 342 and help to limit the drag force exerted by the fluid on the head 351 and the seal 36 of the obturator 35. These arches 344 reduce the risk of turbulence occurring in the fluid flow surrounding the stop device 30. Finally, the obturator seat 34 has a fixed downstream ring 345 configured to be screwed around the upstream end of the tube support 39.

[0215] Figure 42 illustrates steps in a process 190 for manufacturing and installing the stop device 30 in a pipeline 25 to be protected. In a step 191, the various parts of the stop device 30 are manufactured, with all or part of the technical characteristics described above. Preferably, during the manufacture of the fan washers 37, they are annealed.

[0216] In a step 192, the parts of the stop device 30 are assembled as described above. In a step 193, the lip seal 40, the retaining ring 41, and the tabs 371 of the fan washer 37 are compressed toward the axis of the device The stop device 30 is folded to achieve a folded configuration. In step 194, the folded stop device 30 is inserted into a cylindrical sleeve, such as one of the sleeves 18 or 28. In this folded configuration, the stop device 30 can move within a pipeline and follow its curves without damaging either the stop device 30 or the pipeline. In step 195, a housing (not shown) is mounted on the pipeline 25 to be protected at the customer box.

[0217] In step 196, a rod is attached to the sleeve, and the stop device 30 is inserted into the pipeline 25 with this rod. During a step 197, the stop device 30 is positioned behind a bifurcation of the pipeline to be protected 25, for example a bifurcation linking the pipeline to be protected 25 to a wider supply pipeline.In step 198, the flexible blades are deployed under flexure applied by the second locking means by applying pressure to a piston or traction to a cable of the rod to which the device is attached. The lip seal 40, the retaining ring 41, and the blades of the fan washer 37 then bear against the inner wall of the pipe 25, for example, as shown opposite Figures 1 to 33. In step 199, the installation system including the rod is removed, and the stop device 30 is tested by abruptly reducing the pressure downstream of this stop device 30 and verifying that the obturator 35 has been triggered and has closed the tubular channel 398 of the support tube 39. The obturator 35 is then re-engaged by restoring the pressure downstream of the stop device 30.

Claims

Demands

1. A positioning device in a fluid pipeline (11) of predetermined internal radius (R), characterized in that it comprises: - a cylindrical support tube extending along a central axis, - a plurality of flexible slats mechanically connected to the support tube, and - a means for separating, from the axis of the support tube, a first part of at least one flexible slat of said plurality of flexible slats, by applying an external separating force to this slat, from a folded configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat is at a distance from the axis of the support tube less than the predetermined internal radius of the pipeline, to an deployed configuration, in which this first part of the flexible slat is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined internal radius of the pipeline,device in which the spreading means comprises at least one movable ring relative to the support tube, this movable ring bearing against a second part of each flexible slat to be spread apart, this bearing causing, during the movement of the movable ring, the spreading of the first part of each said flexible slat.

2. Positioning device (50, 70, 90, 100, 106) according to claim 1, wherein the movable ring (51, 72, 91, 101) is configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats (55, 75, 95, 105), rotate around the axis of the support tube (53, 92, 102), the bearing of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing a movement of the first part of each flexible slat in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the support tube.

3. Positioning device (50) according to claim 2, in which the movable ring (51) has cams (52) bearing on one end of the flexible slats (55).

4. A positioning device (100, 106) according to claim 2, wherein each flexible slat (105) is mounted on a pivot joint (104) with its pivot axis parallel to the axis of the support tube (102), the movable ring (101) being configured so that, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, rotate around the axis of the support tube, the support of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing the pivoting of each flexible slat around the pivot joint.

5. Positioning device (90) according to claim 2, wherein each flexible slat (95) is positioned in a through opening (93) of the support tube (92), the end of each flexible slat closest to the axis of the support tube being retained by the movable ring (91), the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, rotate around the axis of the support tube, the bearing of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing the free end of each flexible slat to slide in the through opening of the support tube in which this flexible slat is positioned.

6. Positioning device (76) according to claim 1, wherein each flexible slat (79) extends, parallel to the axis of the support tube, on either side of the movable ring (78), the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, rotate around the axis of the support tube, the bearing of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing a movement of the flexible slat from a position coplanar with the axis of the support tube to a position not coplanar with the axis of the support tube.

7. Positioning device (70) according to claim 1, wherein each flexible slat (75) is carried by a rod (73) extending between the movable ring (72) and another ring (71), the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the external force on the flexible slats, rotate about the axis of the support tube, the bearing of the movable ring on the second part of each flexible slat causing a movement of the flexible slat from a position not coplanar with the axis of the support tube to a position coplanar with the axis of the support tube.

8. Positioning device (60) according to claim 1, wherein the movable ring (61) is configured to slide on the support tube (62) parallel to the axis of the support tube, the movable ring carrying a cam (64) configured to, under the action of the force (67) external to the flexible slats (65) move the flexible slat away from the axis of the support tube.

9. Positioning device (80) according to claim 1, wherein each flexible slat (85) is mounted on a pivot joint (83) whose pivot axis is in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the support tube (82), and wherein the movable ring (81) is configured to slide on the support tube (82) parallel to the axis of the support tube and press on one end of the flexible slat opposite, with respect to the pivot joint, the free end of the flexible slat.

10. Positioning device (110, 118, 120, 121, 130) according to claim 1, wherein the movable ring (116, 119, 126, 128, 165) is supported on one end of each flexible slat (115) the other end of which is held in position, the movable ring being configured to, under the action of the force (117, 127) external to the flexible slats, cause the flexible slats to bend until their central part is at a distance from the axis of the support tube at least equal to the predetermined internal radius (R) of the pipeline (H).

11. Positioning device (10, 20, 23) according to claim 1, wherein at least one flexible slat (15, 25) is part of a fan washer (16) and has one end on the surface of the support tube (12) and a free end subjected to an internal elastic restoring force towards an intermediate configuration in which the free end of the flexible slat is at a distance from the axis of the support tube greater than the distance between the free end of said flexible slat and the axis of the support tube in the folded configuration, the spreading means (28, 52, 53) being configured to spread this flexible slat from the intermediate configuration to the deployed configuration and to apply a bending force to it around the point of contact of the spreading means with this flexible slat.

12. A stop device (30) comprising the positioning device (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, causing the stoppage of a leak in the pipeline (11) when the fluid flow rate in that pipeline exceeds a predetermined value, said stop device having an axis of rotational symmetry, said device comprising: - the lip seal (14, 40) fixed hermetically to the outer wall of the support tube (12), such that, when the lip seal is in the deployed configuration, the only fluid passing through the stop device flows solely within the support tube, and - a shutter (35) opposite the upstream end of the support tube, retained by a return means (33) in a first position away from the upstream end of the support tube, this shutter offering a surface on which a drag force is exerted by the fluid flow along this shutter in this first position, the return means being configured so that, when the flow rate is less than the predetermined value, the shutter remains in the first position and, when the flow rate is greater than the predetermined value, the shutter moves to a second position in which the shutter obstructs the upstream end of the support tube, the pressure difference between the upstream and downstream of the device which corresponds to this flow rate greater than the predetermined value then retaining the shutter in the second position.

Images