Valve for regulating gas contained in an atmospheric balloon, and balloon equipped with such a valve

Abstract

A valve (1) for regulating gas contained in an envelope of an atmospheric balloon, said valve comprising a fixed flange (10) intended to be secured to the envelope of said balloon, a mobile flange (20), a sealed flexible membrane (30) secured to the two flanges and defining a gas circulation channel, and also means for rotating the mobile flange with respect to the fixed flange between a position referred to as the open position, in which the gas flow can escape into said circulation channel formed by said membrane (30), and a position referred to as the closed position, obtained by twisting said membrane (30) to form a hyperboloid structure which prevents any circulation of gas through said valve.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE OF THE INVENTION: VALVE FOR REGULATING GAS CONTAINED IN AN ATMOSPHERIC BALLOON AND BALLOON EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A VALVE

[0003] Technical field of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to a device for automatic or controlled regulation of gas contained in an aerostat. The invention relates more particularly to a valve allowing regulation by release of a quantity of gas contained in an envelope of an atmospheric balloon, the invention also relates to a balloon equipped with such a valve.

[0005] Technological background

[0006] Aerostats are aircraft whose lift is due to a gas lighter than air. In order to be able to rise to altitude, it is necessary for these devices to be able to benefit from the aerostatic force resulting from the difference in density between the gas contained inside the aerostat and the outside air. Also, it is necessary to be able to control the quantity of gas inside the aerostat, and to be able to release gas to control the altitude of the device.

[0007] Among known aerostats, atmospheric balloons or weather balloons must cross and undergo the effect of the different pressure layers present between takeoff from the ground and atmospheric heights. The quantity of carrier gas contained inside the balloon, fixed at takeoff, must therefore be able to be reduced at any time in order to guarantee the lift force necessary for the trajectory planned for the aerostat's journey.

[0008] Currently, there are several models of atmospheric balloons in which valves are arranged for emptying the gas contained in the envelope of said balloons. These valves are mostly complex mechanical structures. We then classically find in this type of device valves with axial flap or flap arranged in a hinge. Although these existing solutions allow the gas to be released from the balloon, they nevertheless multiply and complicate the mechanics of the structure of the valve, and contribute to weighing the latter down. A heavier and more complex structure to install inevitably requires a longer assembly time, and a greater gas supply for the take-off of the balloon.

[0009] According to the prior art, there are aerostats equipped with means for managing the gas contained therein. These means, however, include flap valves or mechanical hinged flaps, or valves with axial flaps. These prior art solutions are complex mechanical designs that multiply the wear parts and contribute to making the aerostat heavier.

[0010] There is therefore a need to remedy the drawbacks of the prior art, in particular for stratospheric balloons intended to carry passengers for a new space experience or other aerostats likely to benefit from the solution proposed by the present invention.

[0011] Objectives of the invention

[0012] The invention aims to provide a valve for regulating gas contained in an envelope of an atmospheric balloon, in particular a stratospheric balloon, located at the top of a balloon, said valve being capable of allowing gas to escape on command.

[0013] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a control valve whose risk of failure is minimized.

[0014] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve which is of simple design and economical to manufacture and assemble.

[0015] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve capable of serving as a rigid support for related elements necessary for the use of the balloon.

[0016] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve whose structure is detachable from the balloon.

[0017] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, an atmospheric balloon, in particular a stratospheric balloon, equipped with a regulating valve as will be defined in the description of the invention.

[0018] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a regulating valve whose gas flow can be finely controlled and maintained in an infinite number of intermediate positions between the fully open and fully closed positions.

[0019] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a balloon comprising a control module capable of controlling the opening and closing of a regulation valve as a function of the environmental conditions in which said balloon operates.

[0020] Statement of the invention

[0021] Throughout the text, the term "atmospheric balloon" is defined as an aerostat comprising an envelope containing a carrier gas, said aerostat being able to rise into the atmosphere thanks to the difference in density between the gas contained inside the aerostat and the outside air.

[0022] To this end, the invention relates to a valve for regulating gas contained in an envelope of an atmospheric balloon, said valve extending in a longitudinal direction and comprising: a fixed flange intended to be secured to the envelope of said balloon, a flange movable relative to the fixed flange, extending opposite said fixed flange and spaced from the latter along the longitudinal direction, a flexible gas-tight membrane extending between the fixed flange and the movable flange, said membrane being secured respectively to each of the flanges, and defining a gas circulation channel between the fixed flange and the movable flange, means for rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange between a position, called the open position, in which a gas flow can circulate in said circulation channel formed by said membrane and a position, called the closed position,obtained by twisting said membrane into a hyperboloid structure which prevents any circulation of gas through said valve.,

[0023] A gas control valve for a balloon envelope is a valve that allows the controlled release, expulsion, or reduction of a quantity of carrier gas contained in the envelope of an atmospheric balloon. The carrier gas contained inside the envelope can thus be relocated outside the balloon when the valve is open.

[0024] The regulating valve according to the present invention therefore has the particularity of being able to move from an open position to a closed position thanks to a cooperating assembly comprising a fixed flange, a flange which is movable relative to said fixed flange, a flexible, sealed membrane as well as means for rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange. The flexible membrane is integral with each of said flanges and arranged so as to define a channel for the circulation of a gas flow. This membrane is also gas-tight in order to prevent any passage of gas therethrough when the valve according to the invention is closed.

[0025] According to the invention, the valve defines a gas flow discharge pipe which extends in a longitudinal direction. This longitudinal direction can be likened to a longitudinal axis of said valve.

[0026] The fixed flange of the valve according to the invention makes the connection with the envelope of the balloon, and can be integral with it. When it is fixed to the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, this flange remains removable and it is possible to provide for this purpose a fixing with pressure rings, a screw-nut system or other known means for fixing and tightening.

[0027] The fixed flange corresponds to a base adapted to be able to be connected to the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, in particular a stratospheric balloon. In embodiments, the fixed flange comprises, in a non-limiting manner, two rigid and circular parts between which an O-ring is arranged. It is understood within the meaning of the invention that the flanges may have shapes other than circular shapes and that the person skilled in the art will accordingly adapt the shape of the seal necessary for mounting these parts. The seal is preferably in a single piece.

[0028] The two parts of the fixed flange are clamped together by clamping means known to those skilled in the art. This arrangement thus defines a first level of sealing at the interface between the balloon casing and the fixed flange of the valve.

[0029] According to the invention, the valve also has a second flange placed opposite the fixed flange and spaced from the latter along the longitudinal axis of the valve, opposite the fixed flange. This flange is a movable flange whose rotation relative to the fixed flange will allow the valve to be closed or opened. In embodiments, the movable flange comprises two respective parts defining a lower part and an upper part. In this case, the movable flange may be an arrangement of two rigid and circular parts in which the lower part of the movable flange is defined as the part arranged opposite said fixed flange along the longitudinal axis and in which the upper part of the movable flange is defined as being the other face.For the purposes of the invention, it will be agreed that the terms "upper part" and "upper face" refer to the fixed flange or the movable flange unless otherwise stated, and that in this case they must be considered equivalent; the same will apply to the terms "lower part" or "lower face" when the latter refer to the fixed flange or the movable flange.

[0030] It should be specified for the purposes of the invention that the longitudinal axis of the valve can be defined as being the axis perpendicular to the planes in which the fixed flange and the movable flange extend respectively, these planes being parallel to each other.

[0031] The movable flange can thus comprise two superimposable parts, which respectively represent a lower part and an upper part. Between these two parts there is a seal to which one end of the membrane according to the invention is associated. This end corresponds to the upper end of the membrane when it is arranged on the movable flange of the valve. This association of the seal and the membrane thus arranged between the two parts of the movable flange allows the membrane to be hermetically held at the movable flange and ensures a second level of sealing within the valve. In this configuration, the membrane and the seal are located between the two parts of the movable flange.

[0032] The fixing means used to fix the two parts of the movable flange together and allow the seal and the membrane to be kept hermetic are known tightening means similar to those used for the fixed flange of the invention, such as for example a fixing means using screws and nuts.

[0033] The present invention also comprises a flexible and gas-tight membrane extending between the fixed flange and the movable flange, said membrane being secured to each of the flanges respectively. For the purposes of the invention, flexible is defined as the ability of the membrane to bend or twist easily and gas-tight is defined as the ability of said membrane not to allow fluids to pass through, such as, for example, the carrier gases contained in the stratospheric envelope.

[0034] When the valve is in the open position, the membrane has a cylindrical shape, in the mathematical sense of the term, and includes two open ends. A cylinder is understood to mean any solid generated by a straight line that moves parallel to itself on a generator. Such a generator may, for example, be square, circular, oval, but not limited to. Preferably, the flanges are circular and the flexible membrane is cylindrical with a circular base.

[0035] Each of the ends of the membrane is arranged around a seal so that a first association of the seal and one of the open ends of the membrane is arranged between the two parts of the movable flange on the one hand and a second association of the seal and the other open end of the membrane is arranged on the fixed flange on the other hand. These two associations between the seal and the membrane are completed by one of the tightening means known to those skilled in the art such as for example screws and nuts. The arrangement of these ends is thus provided to guarantee the sealing of the structure of the valve at these different levels. According to the invention, the term "association" is defined as relating to the cooperation of the seal with the membrane in order to ensure the sealing and hermetic character at each end of said membrane within the valve, as such the membrane is wrapped around the seal.

[0036] It is thus understood that said first association at the level of the movable flange constitutes the upper part of the cylinder formed by the membrane and that said second association at the level of the fixed flange constitutes the lower part of the cylinder formed by the membrane. Advantageously according to the invention, the membrane thus arranged defines a channel for circulation of a gas flow between the fixed flange and the movable flange, said circulation channel being comparable to a cylinder.

[0037] It should be noted, within the meaning of the invention, that the seals are placed around the ends of the flexible membrane. Also, the person skilled in the art will be able to choose the most suitable seal shape depending on the shape of the flanges of the invention. In this way and without limitation according to the invention, it will be possible, for example, to use O-rings for circular-shaped flanges.

[0038] It is understood within the meaning of the present invention that the shape of this circulation channel is not limited to that of a right circular cylinder, and that as such, it could also be similar to that of a right prism.

[0039] The fixed flange and the movable flange are spaced apart from each other and are arranged parallel to each other so that the means for rotating said movable flange relative to said fixed flange make it possible to narrow, or even completely close, the gas flow circulation channel of the valve according to the invention. By parallel arrangement of the flanges, it is meant that each of the flanges defines a plane, and that each of these planes is parallel to each other. Thus and according to the invention, the fixed flange and the movable flange are spaced apart from each other by a distance d.

[0040] The constituent materials of the fixed flange and the movable flange that may be used are chosen from aluminum, carbon fiber reinforced composite materials and any other material known to those skilled in the art that can be used for atmospheric conditions, particularly stratospheric conditions.

[0041] In the present invention, it should be specified that the terms "circulation channel" and "circulation corridor" refer indifferently to the passage formed by the flexible waterproof membrane arranged between the fixed and movable flanges within the valve. This passage thus formed is comparable to a cylinder delimited in its lower part by the plane formed by the fixed flange and in its upper part by the plane formed by the movable flange, said planes thus constituting the bases of the cylinder.

[0042] According to the invention, means are also provided for rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange. These means comprise one or more actuators which further allow the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange, thanks to the drive of said movable flange. The actuators which can be used according to the invention are motorized, manual or automated actuators known to those skilled in the art and capable of being controlled remotely.

[0043] Furthermore, the valve according to the invention may comprise at least one actuator directly or indirectly animating the movable flange. When the animation is indirect, the actuator comprises means for indirect transmission of the movement known to those skilled in the art. On the other hand, when the animation is direct, the actuator is configured to directly transmit the movement to the flange, this direct animation corresponds to a structural arrangement involving direct contact between the actuator and the movable flange.

[0044] With regard to the actuation of the movable flange and by way of non-limiting example, it may be provided that the movable flange of the valve according to the invention comprises at its distal part, on at least one of its faces, a portion configured to be connected to a gear. Preferably, said portion is configured to be meshed in an actuator and is located on the radial surface of the movable flange.

[0045] Thus the movable flange may include a toothed or notched portion or any other equivalent means to be driven and / or linked to an actuator.

[0046] Such actuators may be equipped with a pinion or gear transmission system that can be coupled to the notched portion of the movable flange. This type of coupling provides a mechanically engaged connection between the actuator and the movable flange.

[0047] Furthermore, the invention may also provide that the valve may have several actuators. Each of the actuators may, for example, be a motor that is disengaged when the movable flange is stopped while remaining capable of operating independently of the others. In this way, each of the motors may take over to actuate the movable flange regardless of the operating state of the other motors. In the event of failure of a motor or of the mechanical transmission between the motor and the movable flange, another motor can open or close the valve according to the invention.

[0048] Between each motor, the valve according to the invention comprises a mechanical transmission adapted to be able to transmit and transform a movement from the motor to the movable flange, which can result in the continuous rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange between an open position and a closed position.

[0049] The open position or the closed position of the valve according to the invention is defined as a function of the angular position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange. Thus, the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange in the clockwise or anti-clockwise direction will allow the flexible membrane and therefore the gas flow circulation channel defined by the cooperating assembly consisting of the fixed flange, the movable flange relative to the fixed flange and the flexible membrane to be twisted. This rotation will allow a hyperboloid structure of the flexible membrane to be obtained, the twisting of which will allow, in the “fully closed” position, a tight seal to be created within the valve.

[0050] This hyperboloid structure will thus be constituted by two bases, respectively formed by the fixed flange and the movable flange. These two bases then form two planes parallel to each other. When twisting by rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange, the membrane then serves as a seal on itself and makes it possible to dispense with all the mechanical parts usually necessary for the use of valves and flaps known to those skilled in the art. The valve according to the invention thus has fewer parts in its structure and has a lighter structure.

[0051] The open or "fully open" position of the valve can be defined as the angular position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange where the gas flow rate is at its maximum. This position also corresponds to the position where no apparent twisting of the flexible membrane is observed; it can be considered relaxed and at rest. In this configuration, the membrane is then likely to form a floating lobe within the valve. This lobe can be kept taut using a tensioning device. On the other hand, the closed or "fully closed" position can be defined as the angular position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange where the twisting of the flexible membrane is such that it prevents any gas flow through the valve. In the closed position, the gas flow rate within the valve is then zero, the membrane is then taut and forms a hyperboloid structure.

[0052] It will be understood within the meaning of the invention that the valve can transit through an infinite number of different positions between the open position and the closed position and be maintained in each of said positions. These positions can be defined as intermediate positions, said intermediate positions being positions between the open or “fully open” position offering a maximum circulation flow rate and the closed or “fully closed” position offering a zero circulation flow rate as defined previously. The circulation channel comparable to a cylinder can thus have a variable diameter different from the diameter of the “fully open” position or the “fully closed” position of the valve depending on the position of the flanges. In other words, this diameter is variable depending on a position of the movable flange.

[0053] In this respect, the invention also provides position sensors known to those skilled in the art. Said sensors can be placed along the movable flange in order to be able to visualize and identify the different angular positions of the movable flange and identify the opening state of the valve. The maintenance of the flange in a given position can be caused by stopping the motor(s) which is sufficient to withstand the rotational forces.

[0054] Furthermore, the valve according to the invention may provide a plurality of sensors for detecting the angular position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange. In a known manner, said sensors are configured to be able to transmit data on the position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange, said position corresponding to a state. This position data may be digital or analog and may be transmitted to a data receiver by known means, said receiver being capable of informing an operator of the position of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange and of making it possible to estimate the flow of the valve.

[0055] In this respect, the valve according to the invention makes it possible to regulate the release of gas contained in an atmospheric balloon according to the needs of an operator depending on the conditions of the external environment. In this way, if the balloon needs to rise quickly, the operator can keep the valve in its closed position, and conversely, if the balloon needs to descend the operator can release and manage in a controlled manner the flow rate of gas contained in the envelope of the balloon by opening the valve to a suitable intermediate position, or to the open position in order to release as much gas as possible.

[0056] It is understood that, when using a valve according to the invention, the gas flow circulates from the inside of the balloon, that is to say from the envelope where this gas is contained, towards the outside of the balloon by circulating through the valve, and more precisely through the gas flow circulation channel similar to a cylinder defined by the flexible membrane secured to the fixed flange and the movable flange of the valve.

[0057] The valve according to the invention must allow the gas contained in the balloon envelope to circulate to the outside on command. To this end, it is therefore necessary to ensure perfect sealing at the various structural interfaces of the valve.

[0058] The valve according to the invention makes it possible to regulate the gas contained in the envelope of an atmospheric balloon, preferably a stratospheric one. The gas contained in the envelope of said balloon may be hydrogen or helium or any carrier gas capable of being used by a person skilled in the art in this type of apparatus.

[0059] The valve according to the invention may also comprise a succession of movable flanges as defined above and arranged so as to define a gas circulation channel. By succession of movable flanges is meant several stages extending longitudinally along the axis of the valve and comprising one or more movable flanges in rotation relative to a fixed flange.

[0060] Advantageously and according to the invention, the valve further comprises a ferrule secured to the fixed flange, said ferrule defining a cylindrical wall arranged longitudinally between the fixed flange and the movable flange.

[0061] The ferrule is a rigid cylindrical structure capable of being perforated in several places to accommodate fasteners and various equipment known to those skilled in the art.

[0062] The materials constituting the ferrule may be chosen from materials known to those skilled in the art and commonly used in stratospheric balloon valves. Preferably, the materials may be chosen from aluminum or carbon-based composites.

[0063] Thus, and according to this advantageous variant, the ferrule constitutes a wall of the valve serving to protect the flexible membrane from disturbances likely to be caused by the outside air. In this respect, the term outside air is defined as the air located outside the valve according to the invention, as opposed to the gas contained in the balloon.

[0064] Advantageously and according to the invention, the valve further comprises an intermediate armature, removably mounted on the fixed flange and extending concentrically inside the cylindrical wall forming the shell, said armature being arranged between the fixed flange and the movable flange.

[0065] According to this advantageous variant, the intermediate reinforcement serves to maintain a constant space between the ends of the flexible membrane and consequently this constant space is also maintained between the movable flange and the fixed flange of the valve. Thus, translational movement of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange is avoided, with the advantage of simplifying assembly operations and lightening the structure of the valve.

[0066] Furthermore, in this variant, the lower part of the flexible membrane, thus delimiting the lower base of the cylinder, is made watertight by fixing and tightening the intermediate frame on the fixed flange of the valve according to the invention, the engaged end of the flexible membrane being associated with a suitable seal. Thus, a third level of sealing is defined. The tightening and fixing means may be those known to those skilled in the art, such as screws and nuts.

[0067] Also in this advantageous variant, the frame is removable, which simplifies the assembly and replacement of the membrane without having to replace the fixed flange.

[0068] Preferably, and to reduce the weight of the structure, the lower part of the intermediate frame secured to the fixed flange is brought closer to the movable flange while maintaining a constant and uniform spacing at all points between the two flanges. When the valve is in the open position, the relaxed membrane is then capable of forming a lobe along the circulating flow. This lobe has a length L defined as a function of the distance d, said distance d representing the spacing between the movable flange and the fixed flange of the valve and the diameter D of the movable flange.

[0069] Advantageously and according to the invention, the movable flange comprises two parts between which are arranged a sealing gasket and the flexible membrane, said two parts being configured to allow the flexible membrane to be fixed to the movable flange.

[0070] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, the flexible membrane thus arranged makes it possible to prevent leaks of gas circulating at the level of the upper part of the circulation channel which it defines between the two flanges, at the level of the movable flange.

[0071] Advantageously and according to the invention, the fixed flange and the intermediate frame form two parts between which are arranged a sealing gasket and the flexible membrane, said two parts being configured to allow the flexible membrane to be fixed to the fixed flange.

[0072] In an alternative embodiment, it may also be provided that the ferrule has an "L" shape in its lower part. In this configuration, the ferrule then serves as a lower part on which a sealing gasket and the flexible membrane are placed, the whole thing is then tightened with the lower part of the intermediate frame which is fixed to the fixed flange by means of screws and nuts.

[0073] Thus and according to these advantageous variants, the flexible membrane thus arranged makes it possible to prevent leaks of gas circulating at the level of the lower part of the circulation channel which it defines between the two flanges, at the level of the fixed flange.

[0074] Advantageously and according to the invention, the means for rotating the movable flange comprise at least one actuator mechanically connected to the movable flange, said actuator being configured to move the movable flange relative to the fixed flange between said open position and said closed position.

[0075] Thus, and according to this advantageous variant, the transmission of the rotational movement to the movable flange is facilitated.

[0076] Advantageously and according to the invention, the movable flange comprises a toothed portion configured to be in mechanical engagement with an actuator.

[0077] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, maintaining the movable flange in a certain position is facilitated, thus promoting the stopping of the movement in particular when the actuator is disengaged.

[0078] Advantageously and according to the invention, the valve further comprises horizontal guide means and vertical guide means for the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange.

[0079] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, the horizontal forces and the vertical forces resulting from the rotation of the movable flange relative to the flange are reduced, the rotation is therefore optimized. Advantageously and according to the invention, the horizontal guide means and the vertical guide means are respectively carried by the ferrule and the intermediate frame.

[0080] Thus and according to this advantageous variant, the movable flange can be inserted in engagement between the vertical guide means and the horizontal guide means. Preferably, the horizontal guide means carried by the ferrule are located at a height substantially greater than the height of the vertical guide means carried by the intermediate frame along the longitudinal axis of the valve.

[0081] Advantageously and according to the invention, the horizontal and vertical guide means comprise anti-friction devices in contact with the movable flange.

[0082] The anti-friction devices that can be used in the invention are mechanical devices and can be chosen, for example, from ball bearings, anti-friction rings or other known means for reducing friction.

[0083] Thus, and according to this advantageous variant, the friction of the movable flange during its rotation is greatly reduced and the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange is facilitated.

[0084] Advantageously and according to the invention, the movable flange comprises a groove provided on the lower face in which the anti-friction devices of the vertical guide means are housed.

[0085] Thus, and according to this advantageous variant, the vertical forces resulting from the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange are better compensated, the latter being much greater than the horizontal forces. This groove allows, like a rail, to better guide the rotation of the movable flange.

[0086] Advantageously and according to the invention, the movable flange comprises a beveled portion on the upper face in which the anti-friction devices of the horizontal guide means come to bear. Thus and according to this advantageous variant, this structural arrangement also optimizes the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange.

[0087] Advantageously and according to the invention, the anti-friction devices are oriented at an angle a of inclination of between 30° and 70° relative to the longitudinal direction of the valve.

[0088] Preferably, according to this variant, it may be provided that the anti-friction devices of the horizontal guide means are oriented at an angle P of inclination of between 45° and 70° relative to the longitudinal direction of the valve because the horizontal forces resulting from the rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange are less significant than the vertical forces. Consequently, it may also be provided that the anti-friction devices of the vertical guide means are oriented at an angle y of inclination of between 30° and 45° relative to the longitudinal direction of the valve because the vertical forces of rotation of the movable flange relative to the fixed flange are more significant and may require a more closed angle for the support of the movable flange.

[0089] It should be specified for the purposes of the invention that the longitudinal direction of the valve coincides with the direction of the horizontal and vertical guide means respectively carried by the ferrule and the intermediate frame.

[0090] Thus, and according to this advantageous variant, the valve allows better management of the rotation of the movable flange compared to the fixed flange.

[0091] Advantageously and according to the invention, the flexible waterproof membrane comprises one or more materials chosen from plastic polymers, silicones, elastomers or a mixture thereof.

[0092] Thus, and according to this advantageous variant, the materials chosen make it possible to obtain great flexibility of the membrane as well as increased resistance to torsion and aging. According to this variant, the materials chosen are of grades known to those skilled in the art to withstand atmospheric conditions and in particular stratospheric conditions in terms of pressure and temperature. Advantageously and according to the invention, the membrane extends, in the open position, along the longitudinal direction along a length L defined by the following relation [Math 1]:

[0093] [Math 1]

[0094] L > 7(d 2 + £' 2 ) where d corresponds to the distance between the movable flange and the fixed flange and D corresponds to the diameter of the movable flange.

[0095] Thus, and according to this advantageous variant, the length L of the membrane allows the membrane to be closed after the movable flange has completed at least one rotation of 180°.

[0096] When L is defined by the following relation [Math 2]:

[0097] [Math 2]

[0098] L = 7(d 2 + £' 2 ) the valve can thus be closed, by rotating the movable flange 180°.

[0099] On the other hand, when L is defined by the following relation [Math 3]:

[0100] [Math 3]

[0101] L > 7(d 2 + £' 2 ) the valve can be closed by rotating the movable flange relative to the fixed flange, but the length L of the membrane then allows several rotations to be made, in other words, the movable flange can thus rotate more than 180°.

[0102] The invention also relates to an atmospheric balloon, preferably stratospheric, comprising an envelope intended to contain a gas, a valve for regulating the gas contained in said envelope, environmental sensors and a control module, said balloon being equipped with a regulating valve as defined previously, said valve being positioned at the top of the envelope of said balloon.

[0103] It is understood that the top of such an envelope is defined as the highest point of the balloon envelope relative to the axis of its ascent. In addition, the balloon may comprise a plurality of valves in accordance with the invention.

[0104] Environmental sensors are understood to mean sensors suitable for determining data relating to the altitude of the balloon and / or the atmospheric pressure and / or the temperature of the external environment. These sensors are known to those skilled in the art and may further be chosen from altimeters, barometers and thermometers commonly used to assess atmospheric conditions and more particularly stratospheric conditions.

[0105] Advantageously and according to the invention, the balloon control module is configured to control the rotation of the movable flange of the valve relative to the fixed flange based on data from the environmental sensors.

[0106] To this end, the control module must be understood as a module capable of processing and determining a control law for opening or closing the valve based on data from environmental sensors. Indeed, the environmental factors mentioned above can have a significant impact on the effects of opening the valve for the same control action.

[0107] The control module thus makes it possible to compensate for environmental effects. In order to pilot the balloon with the best possible trajectory, the pilot must have a means of opening and / or closing the valve with the same feeling regardless of the environmental conditions in which the balloon is moving. The piloting law determined by the module thus makes it possible to compensate for the potential impact of these environmental conditions on piloting.

[0108] Thus and according to this variant of the invention, the control module allows the establishment and application of a control law ensuring similar control of the aerostat for the same duration of control of opening or closing of the valve depending on the environmental conditions in which said aerostat operates.

[0109] List of figures

[0110] Other aims, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description given solely for non-limiting purposes and which refers to the appended figures in which:

[0111] - [Fig. 1] is a schematic view according to an embodiment of the flexible membrane of the valve according to the invention, when the valve is in the open position.

[0112] - [Fig. 2] is a schematic view according to an embodiment of the flexible membrane of the valve according to the invention, when the valve is in the closed position.

[0113] - [Fig. 3] is a schematic view of a balloon equipped with a valve according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0114] - [Fig. 4] illustrates an embodiment of a valve according to the invention in which said valve is in the open position, and comprises circular flanges.

[0115] - [Fig. 5] is a longitudinal sectional view of the valve according to another embodiment of the invention where the valve is in the open position and comprises circular flanges.

[0116] - [Fig. 6] illustrates an embodiment in which an actuator is mechanically engaged to a toothed portion of the movable flange.

[0117] Detailed description of an embodiment of the invention

[0118] In the figures, scales and proportions are not strictly respected, for the purposes of illustration and clarity.

[0119] Throughout the detailed description which follows with reference to the figures, unless otherwise indicated, each element of the valve according to the invention is described as it is arranged during its use.

[0120] Identical, similar or analogous elements are designated by the same references in all figures.

[0121] The gas regulating valve 1 according to the invention comprises a fixed flange 10, a movable flange 20, a sealed flexible membrane 30, a ferrule 40, an intermediate frame 50 as well as means for rotating the movable flange 20 relative to the fixed flange 10.

[0122] More precisely, the valve 1 extends in a longitudinal direction and comprises at its base a fixed flange intended to be secured to an envelope 2 of an atmospheric balloon 4. The valve also comprises a movable flange 20, movable relative to the fixed flange 10 which extends opposite said fixed flange 10 and which is spaced from the latter by a distance d in the longitudinal direction of the valve 1. The movable flange 20 may be circular and in this case comprises a diameter D, each of the flanges 10 and 20 defining planes parallel to each other and respectively orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the valve, said longitudinal direction thus being comparable to a vertical axis.

[0123] The valve 1 comprises a flexible, sealed membrane 30 which extends between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20 and which is respectively secured to each of the flanges 10 and 20 so as to define a gas circulation channel between said flanges 10 and 20.

[0124] The valve also comprises means for rotating the movable flange 20 relative to the fixed flange 10 allowing the valve to move from a position, called the open position 30a, to a position, called the closed position 30b. The rotation means allow the movable flange 20 to rotate relative to the fixed flange and thus allow the angular position of the movable flange 20 to be changed. The rotation of the movable flange 20 thus causes the membrane 30, which is integral with said movable flange 20, to twist in a hyperboloid structure.In this way, the valve 1 makes it possible to regulate the gas contained inside the envelope 2 of an atmospheric balloon 4 by allowing the rotation of the movable flange 20 relative to the fixed flange 10, this resulting in the passage from an open position where the membrane 30 defines a circulation channel between the flanges 10 and 20, to a closed position where the hermetic closure by twisting of said membrane 30 according to a hyperboloid structure prevents any circulation of the gas within the valve.

[0125] The valve 1 further comprises a ferrule 40 secured to the fixed flange 10 which defines a cylindrical wall arranged longitudinally between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20. Said valve 1 may also comprise an intermediate armature 50 removably mounted on the fixed flange 10 and extending concentrically inside the cylindrical wall forming the ferrule 40, said armature 50 being arranged between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20. The armature 50 is an internal structure of the valve which makes it possible to maintain a constant gap between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20. It may also serve as a support for the movable flange 20.

[0126] Figure 1 schematically illustrates the open position 30a of the valve 1 according to one embodiment of the invention. More specifically, this figure schematically illustrates the membrane 30 of the valve when the latter is in the open position 30a. It should be noted that, for this figure, the illustration is purely schematic and that the membrane 30 is not taut or rigid when the valve 1 is in the open position 30a. Indeed, when the valve 1 is in the open position, the flexible, sealed membrane 30 is capable of defining a lobe along the flow of gas circulating through the circulation channel that it defines. Figure 1 thus schematically illustrates the circulation channel formed by the membrane 30 when the valve 1 is in the open position.

[0127] Figure 2 schematically illustrates the closed position 30b of the valve 1 according to another embodiment of the invention. More specifically, this figure schematically illustrates the membrane 30 of the valve 1 when the latter is in the closed position 30b. We can then see the hyperboloid structure formed when the valve 1 is closed. It should be noted that the valve according to the invention allows rotation of the movable flange 20 in the clockwise and / or counterclockwise direction, thus the valve 1 can be in a closed position 30b or in an open position 30a independently of the direction of rotation.

[0128] Figure 3 illustrates an atmospheric balloon 4 equipped with the valve 1 at the top of its envelope 2. The valve is secured to the envelope 2 of the balloon 4 and makes it possible to regulate the gas contained in the envelope of said balloon 4. In this figure, the balloon 4 further comprises a basket 3 capable of transporting passengers and / or equipment.

[0129] Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of the valve 1 according to the invention where said valve 1 is in an open position 30a. In this embodiment, the valve 1 comprises a ferrule 40 defining a cylindrical wall on which horizontal guide means 42 of the movable flange 20 are arranged. The horizontal guide means 42 are arranged peripherally along the wall of the ferrule 40 and are fixed by a screw-nut system thus constituting fixing means 80. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the horizontal guide means 42 comprise ball bearings 43. The ball bearings are in contact with a portion of the movable flange 20 which corresponds to a beveled portion 25 of the movable flange 20.In this figure, although the valve is in the open position 30a, the membrane 30 has been shown in a simplified manner for the purposes of understanding, it is in the relaxed position and is likely to form a lobe masking the inner side of the fixed flange 10. Furthermore, the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20 are circular and have a diameter D of identical value. The intermediate frame 50 makes it possible to maintain a distance d between the fixed flange 10 and the movable flange 20.

[0130] Figure 5 shows a section along the longitudinal axis of the valve 1 according to the invention. In this figure, the valve 1 is in the open position 30a and the membrane 30 of a length L is relaxed and forms a lobe along the valve 1.

[0131] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the movable flange 20 comprises two parts that can be superimposed on each other, the two parts corresponding respectively to an upper part 21 and a lower part 22. The membrane 30 is wound around a seal 62 and then fixed between the parts 21 and 22 of the movable flange 20. This arrangement then defines a first level of sealing at the upper or top part of the valve 1. Still according to this embodiment, the valve 1 comprises a ferrule 40 and an intermediate frame 50 arranged concentrically to said ferrule 40 which defines a cylindrical wall arranged in the longitudinal direction of the valve 1.

[0132] In this embodiment, the ferrule 40 is integral with the fixed flange 10, and defines an “L” shape in its lower part 41. The part 41 then serves as the lower part for the lower part 51 of the intermediate frame 50. A seal 61 around which the membrane 30 is wound is arranged between the part 41 of the ferrule 40 and the part 51 of the intermediate frame 50. This arrangement thus defines a second level of sealing at the lower part of the valve 1. The part 41 of the ferrule 40 and the part 51 of the frame 50 are fixed to each other by fixing means 81, said means 81 also allowing the fixing of this arrangement on the movable flange 10.

[0133] In this figure, the fixed flange 10 also comprises two superimposable parts defining an upper part 11 supporting the arrangement formed by the ferrule 40 and the intermediate frame 50, and a lower part 12 intended to be secured to the envelope 2 of an atmospheric balloon 4.

[0134] The movable flange also comprises a seal 60 arranged between its upper part 11 and its lower part 12, thus defining a third level of sealing at the interface between the fixed flange 10 and the envelope 2 of an atmospheric balloon 4. The two parts 11 and 12 of the fixed flange 10 are fixed together and held on the envelope 2 of the balloon 4 by fixing means 82.

[0135] In this embodiment, the ferrule 40 comprises horizontal guide means 42 arranged along the longitudinal axis of the valve 1. The horizontal guide means 42 are fixed to the periphery of the ferrule 40 by fixing means 80.

[0136] The horizontal guide means 42 of the ferrule 40 are at a height substantially greater than the vertical guide means 52 of the intermediate frame 50 so that the movable flange can be arranged in engagement between the guide means 42 and 52. In addition, the horizontal guide means 42 and the vertical guide means 52 respectively comprise at their upper end ball bearings 43 and 53. The ball bearings 53 of the vertical guide means 52 of the intermediate frame 50 are inserted into a groove 24 located under the lower part 22 of the movable flange 20. In this way, the movable flange 20 bears on the vertical guide means 52 of the intermediate frame 50.

[0137] The movable flange also comprises a beveled portion 25 on the upper part 21 on which the ball bearings 43 of the horizontal guide means 42 of the ferrule 40 come to bear. In Figure 5, the ball bearings 43 and 53 are oriented at an angle a of inclination of 45° relative to the longitudinal axis of the valve 1 which also corresponds to the vertical axes defined by the horizontal guide means 42 and the vertical guide means 52.

[0138] Figure 6 illustrates an embodiment where the valve 1 comprises an actuator 70 arranged on the ferrule 40. In this figure, the actuator 70 is mechanically connected to the toothed portion 23 of the movable flange 20 via a pinion 71. The actuator then allows the rotation of the movable flange 20 relative to the fixed flange 10 of the valve 1 according to the invention.

Claims

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Valve according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the membrane (30) extends, in the open position, along the longitudinal direction along a length L defined by the following relation [Math 1]: [Math 1] L > 7(d 2 + £' 2 ) where d corresponds to the distance between the movable flange (20) and the fixed flange (10) and D corresponds to the diameter of the movable flange (20).

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

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

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