Venturi-effect gas injection device

The monolithic design of the Venturi effect gas injection device addresses assembly challenges by integrating the primary nozzle and channel into a single body, ensuring precise alignment and improved mechanical strength, thus enhancing performance and simplifying manufacturing.

WO2025262395A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2025-12-26SAFRAN AEROSYST
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/FR2025/050550
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-06-17
Filing Date
2025-06-16
Publication Date
2025-12-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing Venturi effect gas injection devices for protective hoods require numerous parts that are difficult to assemble correctly, leading to potential misalignment and performance issues.

Method used

A Venturi effect gas injection device with a monolithic design, featuring a primary nozzle and channel formed on a single monobloc body, and a clamping assembly to ensure precise alignment of the primary and secondary nozzles, eliminating the need for separate seals and reducing the risk of misalignment.

Benefits of technology

The monolithic design simplifies manufacturing, ensures precise alignment, and enhances mechanical strength and performance by minimizing gaps and misalignment between nozzles.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a Venturi-effect gas injection device (100), comprising: - a primary nozzle (101) configured to deliver a first gas, in particular oxygen, which is accelerated by the effect of a convergent cone (102) of this primary nozzle, - a channel (104) configured for the flow of first gas between a first-gas reserve (24) towards the primary nozzle (101), this channel (104) and the primary nozzle (101) being formed on a first one-piece body (105), - a secondary nozzle (110) into which the primary nozzle (101) opens and which is configured to draw in, by means of the Venturi effect, a second gas, for example treated air, which is mixed with the first gas delivered by the primary nozzle (101) so as to produce a gaseous mixture delivered by this secondary nozzle (110), this secondary nozzle (110) being formed on a second one-piece body (112).
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Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Title: Venturi Effect Gas Injection Device

[0003] [1] The present invention relates to a Venturi effect gas injection device, in particular for a protective hood.

[0004] [2] Patent application EP2979561 discloses a hood comprising a flexible, airtight envelope designed to be worn over the user's head. The flexible envelope has a transparent window and, in its lower part, includes a rigid, generally annular base element designed to be placed around the user's neck. The base element includes a tubular oxygen reservoir with a calibrated outlet opening into the internal volume of the flexible envelope. This type of device is used on board aircraft when the cabin atmosphere is compromised (depressurization, smoke, chemical agents, etc.). This equipment is intended, in particular, to enable flight crew to combat the malfunction, provide assistance to passengers, and manage a possible evacuation of the aircraft.

[0005] [3] The present invention aims in particular to improve this type of balaclava.

[0006] [4] The invention thus relates to a Venturi effect gas injection device, comprising: a primary nozzle configured to deliver a first gas, in particular oxygen, which is accelerated by the effect of a converging cone of this primary nozzle, a channel configured for the flow of first gas from a first gas reservoir to the primary nozzle, this channel and the primary nozzle being formed on a first monobloc body, a secondary nozzle into which the primary nozzle opens and configured to draw in by Venturi effect a second gas, for example treated air, which mixes with the first gas delivered by the primary nozzle so as to create a gas mixture delivered by this secondary nozzle, this secondary nozzle being formed on a second monobloc body.

[0007] [5] Thanks to the invention, the design and manufacture of the Venturi effect gas injection device is simplified. In particular, it is possible to reduce the number of parts required to manufacture this injection device. Specifically, the primary nozzle and the channel that carries the first gas to this primary nozzle are formed on a single, monolithic body. This eliminates the need to assemble numerous parts that would require seals at their junctions. A risk with previous devices is that during assembly, the operator might forget to insert one of the seals, thus compromising the seal of the final device. Another undesirable risk is that the numerous parts of the previous device could lead to misalignment between the primary and secondary nozzles, reducing the device's performance.

[0008] [6] For example, a "one-piece body" is understood to be a block in which all the elements are mechanically joined so as to form a single piece. Preferably, the elements are either all molded in one piece or welded into one piece.

[0009] [7] In one embodiment of the invention, the channel for the flow of first gas from the first gas reservoir to the primary nozzle has a U-shaped form.

[0010] [8] In one embodiment of the invention, one end of the channel is configured to be in communication with a nozzle of the first gas reservoir.

[0011] [9] This end of the channel is called the channel inlet.

[0012]

[0010] In one embodiment of the invention, the outlet of the channel is through the primary nozzle which is configured to accelerate, by the effect of the converging cone, the first gas which exits the channel.

[0013]

[0011] In one embodiment of the invention, the U-shaped channel has two parallel branches and a transverse branch connecting the two parallel branches.

[0014]

[0012] In one embodiment of the invention, the two parallel branches of the U-shaped channel are formed entirely in the mass of the first monobloc body.

[0015]

[0013] In one embodiment of the invention, the transverse branch of the U-shaped channel is formed by a groove in the first monobloc body, the groove being closed by a hood in a sealed manner.

[0016]

[0014] For example, the hood is welded onto the first one-piece body.

[0017]

[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, the hood has an elongated shape, with an oblong rim which comes into contact with the first one-piece body.

[0018]

[0016] In one embodiment of the invention, the hood helps to define the transverse branch of the U-shaped channel.

[0019]

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, the branch of the U-shaped channel that leads to the inlet, namely the branch of the U that is connected to the first gas reserve, is formed in a cylindrical portion of the first body.

[0020]

[0018] In one embodiment of the invention, this cylindrical portion of the first body is defined by a column that rests on the second monobloc body.

[0019] In one embodiment of the invention, the second monobloc body comprises a tube that defines the secondary nozzle.

[0021]

[0020] In one embodiment of the invention, the tube forming the secondary nozzle has a constricted neck which participates in the Venturi effect.

[0022]

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention, the primary nozzle opens into the secondary nozzle upstream of the throat of the secondary nozzle.

[0023]

[0022] In one embodiment of the invention, the second body comprises, in addition to the secondary nozzle, a plate with an opening through which extends the channel between the gas reservoir and the primary nozzle.

[0024]

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, the gas injection device includes a connecting member configured to cooperate with the first gas reserve.

[0025]

[0024] In one embodiment of the invention, the gas reservoir includes a distribution head configured to engage in this connection member of the gas injection device.

[0026]

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention, the gas reserve distribution head is configured to cooperate with the connection member of the injection device by forming a spherical or ball joint.

[0027]

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, the connection member of the gas injection device comprises a cavity, in particular spherical in shape, this cavity being open to form a female connection member in which the distribution head of the gas reserve is engaged.

[0028]

[0027] In one embodiment of the invention, the gas reservoir includes a dispensing nozzle initially closed by a capsule.

[0029]

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, pivoting the gas reserve distribution head in this connection member of the injection device causes the capsule to be withdrawn and the distribution nozzle to be released, allowing the first gas in the gas reserve to be distributed into the channel of the gas injection device.

[0030]

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention, this first distributed gas is then accelerated by the primary nozzle.

[0031]

[0030] In one embodiment of the invention, the connecting element is formed as a single piece.

[0032]

[0031] In one embodiment of the invention, the connecting member is fixed in the opening of the plate of the second monobloc.

[0032] In one embodiment of the invention, the connecting member has a passage (“on the apex of the sphere”) for the insertion of the end of the column forming the channel of the first monobloc body.

[0033]

[0033] In one embodiment of the invention, the first and second one-piece bodies are welded or screwed or glued together.

[0034]

[0034] This allows for reliable sealing at the interfaces between the different monobloc bodies.

[0035]

[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, the one-piece bodies are made of plastic material, and are obtained in particular by molding.

[0036]

[0036] In one embodiment of the invention, the gas injection device plate is configured to be attached to a CO2 capture cartridge.

[0037]

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, the one-piece bodies are arranged to cooperate according to a clamping assembly.

[0038]

[0038] By compression fitting, it is understood that an assembly between the first one-piece body and the second one-piece body in which an internal part of one of these two bodies is slightly larger than the bore of the other body so that it is necessary to force the assembly to fit the two one-piece bodies together.

[0039]

[0039] This arrangement eliminates the positioning and functional clearances that are usually present in other types of fastening, such as clip fastening. Indeed, with these other types of fastening, positioning clearance is necessary for the fastening to occur. However, the greater the clearance, the greater the probability of misalignment between parts.

[0040]

[0040] Thus, the alignment between the first monobloc body and the second monobloc body is optimal. The primary and secondary nozzles are perfectly aligned. Mechanical strength is also improved.

[0041]

[0041] According to one aspect of the invention, the clamping assembly is achieved by moving the two monobloc bodies relative to each other along an extension axis of the primary and secondary nozzles. This axis corresponds to the general direction of flow through the primary and secondary nozzles.

[0042]

[0042] According to one aspect of the invention, the clamping assembly is obtained by the presence of at least one boss on the first and / or second one-piece body adapted to cooperate with a surface of the second and / or first one-piece body.

[0043] At least one boss corresponds to a bulge that serves to improve mechanical strength in a press-fit assembly, that is, a press-fit assembly. The boss can also be called a knurled edge. Preferably, the boss corresponds to a rib extending parallel to the axis of extension.

[0043]

[0044] According to one aspect of the invention, the monobloc bodies are arranged to butt against each other along the extension axis. This allows for the definition of a final mounting position. Here, the first monobloc body presents a surface for interaction with the plate of the second monobloc body, which is pressed against the plate by conforming to its shape.

[0044]

[0045] Also, the one-piece bodies feature transverse stops along the extension axis, designed to ensure alignment during press-fit assembly of the two one-piece bodies. Here, a final portion of the column protrudes from the contact surface, and the corresponding bore in the second one-piece body has a complementary shape (except for the bosses, which also protrude). Bosses are present, at least in some cases, on this final portion. The bosses can be evenly spaced. The bosses can originate from the contact surface and be shorter than the final portion of the column. This facilitates the initial assembly by reducing resistance when positioning the first one-piece body within the second one-piece body.

[0045]

[0046] The cooperation surface may be a surface of a complementary plate to the first monobloc body. The first monobloc body may further include a threaded sleeve extending parallel to the extension axis and suitable for receiving a fixing screw passing through a hole in the plate.

[0046]

[0047] Also, the supplementary plate and the plate can be provided with tapped or untapped holes to add screw fixing points.

[0047]

[0048] The threaded sleeve can be fixed to the supplementary plate. This design limits deformation of the primary one-piece body. Furthermore, a first reinforcement plate for the primary one-piece body can be adapted to connect the column, the threaded sleeve, and the supplementary plate. This first reinforcement plate extends transversely across the supplementary plate.

[0048]

[0049] A second reinforcing plate can connect the socket to the primary nozzle. This second reinforcing plate can be parallel to the first and preferably continuous with it. The second reinforcing plate can also include at least one boss adapted to cooperate with a slot formed in a lug attached to the plate of the second monobloc body. This improves transverse alignment with the extension axis.

[0049]

[0050] The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a Venturi effect gas injection device, in which two monobloc bodies are assembled in a single operation corresponding to a rectilinear translation.

[0050]

[0051] This translation is performed along the extension axis. As detailed above, correct positioning is achieved automatically during this rectilinear translation, as the press-fit assembly and various stops ensure perfect alignment.

[0051]

[0052] According to one aspect of the invention, the monobloc bodies are each made in one piece.

[0052]

[0053] Preferably, each monobloc body is produced by molding in a single operation, resulting in a one-piece component. Molding, particularly in plastics, is well-suited for creating the geometry of these one-piece components.

[0053]

[0054] The proposed design also reduces the number of parts because each monobloc body consists of only one piece, which by definition cannot develop gaps between its different elements, unlike an assembly where gaps accumulate and could lead to misalignment between the primary and secondary nozzles. Mechanical strength is also improved.

[0054]

[0055] The invention further relates to a protective hood comprising: a flexible envelope configured to be stored in a folded state and to be put on, in an unfolded state, through an open base of the flexible envelope, over the user's head; an articulated device attached to the open base and configured to be placed around the user's neck when the flexible envelope is put on the user's head; the articulated device comprising at least two rigid parts connected by a joint allowing these two rigid parts to move from a folded position preventing the user's head from passing through the hood to an unfolded position allowing the user's head to pass through the hood; one of the rigid parts being a CO2 capture cartridge and the other of the rigid parts being a gas reservoir; a Venturi effect gas injection device as described above.connected on one side to the reservoir via the channel leading to the primary nozzle, and on the other side to the CO2 capture cartridge via the secondary nozzle, so as to distribute a gaseous mixture containing the first gas and the second gas.

[0055]

[0056] Other features, details and advantages of the invention will become clearer upon reading the following description on the one hand, and several illustrative and non-limiting examples of embodiments given with reference to the attached schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0056]

[0057] [Fig. 1] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a balaclava according to an example of implementation of the invention, in the folded state;

[0057]

[0058] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the hood of figure 1, in its unfolded state;

[0058]

[0059] [Fig. 3] Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the hood in Figure 1, with the user moving the hinged device aside in order to put on the hood;

[0059]

[0060] [Fig. 4] Figure 4 is an isolated schematic representation of the articulated device of the hood in Figure 1;

[0060]

[0061] [Fig. 5] Figure 5 is a schematic representation of the hood of Figure 1, put on the user's head;

[0061]

[0062] [Fig. 6] Figure 6 is a schematic representation of a chronometer triggering device of the balaclava in Figure 1;

[0062]

[0063] [Fig. 7] Figure 7 is a schematic representation of the balaclava in Figure 1, stored in a bag;

[0063]

[0064] [Fig. 8] Figure 8 represents an alert sequence associated with the stopwatch of the balaclava in Figure 1;

[0064]

[0065] [Fig. 9] Figure 9 is a schematic representation of a Venturi effect gas injection device according to an example of an embodiment of the invention;

[0065]

[0066] [Fig. 10] Figure 10 is a schematic representation, in cross-section along a foreground, of the Venturi effect gas injection device of Figure 9;

[0066]

[0067] [Fig. 11] Figure 11 is a schematic representation, in cross-section along a second plane, of the Venturi effect gas injection device of Figure 9;

[0067]

[0068] [Fig. 12] Figure 12 is a schematic representation, in cross-section along the second plane, of the Venturi effect gas injection device of Figure 11, before the capsule breaks;

[0068]

[0069] [Fig. 13] Figure 13 is a schematic representation of a Venturi effect gas injection device according to another embodiment of the invention 1.

[0070] [Fig. 14] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a Venturi effect gas injection device according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0069]

[0071] [Fig. 15] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the first monobloc body according to the variant of Figure 14.

[0070]

[0072] [Fig. 16] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the first monobloc body and the second monobloc body according to the variant of Figure 14.

[0071]

[0073] The features, variations, and different embodiments of the invention can be combined in various ways, provided they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variations of the invention may include only a selection of features, described hereafter in isolation from the other features described, if this selection of features is sufficient to confer a technical advantage and / or to differentiate the invention from prior art.

[0072]

[0074] Figures 1 and 2 show a protective hood 1 comprising: a flexible envelope 2 configured to be stored in a folded state (state shown in Figure 1) and to be put on, in an unfolded state (state shown in Figure 2), through an open base 3 of the flexible envelope 2, over the head of the user U, an articulated device 5 (shown separately in Figure 4) attached to the open base 3 and configured to be placed around the neck of the user U when the flexible envelope 2 is put on the head of the user.

[0073]

[0075] In the example described, the flexible envelope 2, which is airtight, contains mainly a Nomex® fabric and a flexible collar 6, notably in Neoprene®, forming the base 3.

[0074]

[0076] The hood 1 also includes a semi-rigid visor 7, notably made of transparent polymer, and possibly a sound membrane (not shown).

[0075]

[0077] The hood 1 also includes a handle 10 attached to the flexible envelope 2, this handle 10 being placed on a vertex 11 of the flexible envelope 2, in a manner accessible to the user when the flexible envelope 2 is in the folded state, as can be seen in Figure 1.

[0076]

[0078] In the example described, the handle 10 is in the form of a flexible band 12, of substantially rectangular shape.

[0077]

[0079] Other strip shapes can be provided, for example a trapezoidal shape or a shape with a rounded end.

[0080] The band-shaped handle 10 is solid, meaning it has no opening. The handle 10 has no loop.

[0078]

[0081] The band-shaped handle 10 is attached to the flexible envelope 2 by an edge of the band, on an external face 14 of this flexible envelope 2. For example, the handle 10 is heat-sealed to the flexible envelope 2.

[0079]

[0082] Handle 10 is made of self-extinguishing material, namely a material which can burn in a flame, but which extinguishes itself as soon as it is removed from it.

[0080]

[0083] The handle 10 may or may not be made of the same material as the flexible casing. The handle 10 could, if desired, be made as a single piece with the flexible casing 2, for example, being an extension of the material of the flexible casing.

[0081]

[0084] Advantageously, the handle 10 has a distinct color from the color of the soft cover 2, being here fluorescent yellow.

[0082]

[0085] Thus, handle 10 is easily and quickly identifiable by the user when removing the folded hood 1 from a bag. It may be necessary for the equipment to be deployed in less than 15 seconds.

[0083]

[0086] As can be clearly seen in Figure 4, the articulated device 5 comprises two rigid parts 20 and 21 connected by a joint 22 allowing these two rigid parts 20 and 21 to move from a folded position (state shown in Figure 4) preventing the passage of the user's head into the hood 1 to an unfolded position (state shown in Figure 5) allowing the passage of the user's head into the hood 1.

[0084]

[0087] The articulated device 5 has a mass of at least 50%, in particular at least 60% or 70%, of the total mass of the hood 1.

[0085]

[0088] Thus the articulated device 5, quite heavy compared to the rest of the hood, allows reliable action to unfold the hood 1 by gravity.

[0086]

[0089] The two parts 20 and 21 of the articulated device are formed by two tubular portions connected by the joint 22 to form an open ring in the unfolded position.

[0087]

[0090] The articulated device 5 is configured to provide a self-contained breathing function for the user who has donned the hood 1. This is the case on hoods intended for actual use, unlike hoods intended for training which may be simpler.

[0088]

[0091] Thus the articulated device 5 includes an oxygen reservoir 24 formed in the tubular part 21 and equipped with an oxygen outlet orifice opening into the internal volume of the flexible envelope 2.

[0092] The tubular part 20 includes a CO2 capture cartridge 25, for example lime, configured to adsorb CO2 from the user's breathing.

[0089]

[0093] In the example described, the tubular portion 21 which includes the oxygen reservoir 24 is curved, and the tubular portion 20 which includes the CO2 capture cartridge 25 is straight.

[0090]

[0094] In the case of a training hood, which does not need to have the functional equipment required for a real-use protective hood, it can be equipped with an articulated device without a breathing function, still allowing users to train to deploy the hood.

[0091]

[0095] The tubular part 20 of the articulated device 5 has, at its opposite end 29 to the joint 22, a timer 30 configured to be triggered when the articulated device 5 moves from the folded position (figure 4) to the unfolded position (figure 5).

[0092]

[0096] The stopwatch 30 is equipped with a triggering member 31 configured to trigger the stopwatch 30, this triggering member 31 being linked, on the one hand, to the stopwatch 30 and, on the other hand, to the tubular part 21 of the articulated device 5 so that the spacing between the two parts 20 and 21 of the articulated device 5 acts on the triggering member 31 in order to trigger the stopwatch 30.

[0093]

[0097] The triggering member 31 is removably linked to the chronometer 30 so that the separation of the two parts 20 and 21 of the articulated device 5 from its folded position to its unfolded position causes an extraction of the triggering member 31 from the chronometer 30, an extraction which results in a triggering of the chronometer which begins a countdown.

[0094]

[0098] As can be seen in Figures 4 and 6, the triggering member 31 has a triggering tab 33 configured to be inserted into a slot 34 of the chronometer 30.

[0095]

[0099] The stopwatch 30 is configured to be in off mode as long as tab 33 is held in place.

[0096]

[0100] For example, removing tab 33 allows the stopwatch 30 to be connected to an electrical power source, for example a battery.

[0097]

[0101] Alternatively, the trigger tab 33 is made of electrically insulating material, and is configured to keep open a power supply circuit for the stopwatch 30.

[0098]

[0102] Pulling out this trigger tab 33 closes the stopwatch's power supply circuit, and the stopwatch starts running.

[0103] The stopwatch 30 is part of an electronic card 35.

[0099]

[0104] For example, the stopwatch 30, or the electronic board 35 which defines the stopwatch, is mounted in a cover 36 of the CO2 capture cartridge 25.

[0100]

[0105] Advantageously, the stopwatch 30 is placed away from the oxygen capacity 24 (on the other rigid part of the articulated device) which may contain metal parts that could be a risk for electric arcs.

[0101]

[0106] The triggering member 31 includes at least one wire 37 connecting the removable triggering tab 33 and the opposite part 21 of the articulated device 5.

[0102]

[0107] The wire 37 is configured so that, when the articulated device 5 is moved from its folded position to its unfolded position, this wire 37 is taut and pulls the removable tab 33 to extract it from the slot 34 of the stopwatch.

[0103]

[0108] The removable trigger tab 33 includes a double loop 38 for the passage of the wire 37.

[0104]

[0109] This double loop 38 allows for the maximum amount of material to be in the extraction axis of the tongue 33.

[0105]

[0110] The double loop 38 made of a sufficiently flexible material of the tongue 33, each with a notch entry 39, allows the wire 37 to be easily placed in the notch 40.

[0106]

[0111] A notch 40 and a counter-notch 41 are provided to prevent the lace from coming loose from the double loop 38.

[0107]

[0112] The wire 37 is of sufficient length so that, when the hood 1 is folded, this wire 37 is slack (as can be seen in Figure 4). Thus, no tension is exerted on the trigger tab by the wire 37.

[0108]

[0113] The removable trigger tab 33 includes an anti-return device 42 configured to oppose with a predetermined force the extraction of this tab 33 out of the slot 34 of the chronometer.

[0109]

[0114] The anti-return device 42, in the form of an elastic tab, prevents the risk of applying force to the tab 33 during assembly operations (e.g., folding, insertion into the bag, and vacuum sealing) that could unintentionally trigger the timer 30. The anti-return device 42 increases the force required to remove the tab 33, thus preventing unintentional activation.

[0110]

[0115] The non-return device includes an outgrowth 43 which fits into the slot 34.

[0116] In the example described, the removable trigger tab 33 is made from a plate, for example a plate of plastic material, in particular cut with a water jet.

[0111]

[0117] The hood 1 is configured to provide the user with at least one piece of information about hood usage based on data provided by the stopwatch 30, this usage information being an alert of the end of an oxygen reserve available in the articulated device 5 when the stopwatch has measured a predetermined duration, for example a duration of 15 minutes.

[0112]

[0118] The hood 1 includes an indicator light 45, formed by one or more LEDs, configured to provide the user with information on how to use the hood. This indicator light 45 is located on the electronic board 35.

[0113]

[0119] The indicator light 45 is controlled by the electronic board 35 to control the emission of light according to different modes.

[0114]

[0120] For example, as illustrated in Figure 8, following the activation of the timer 30 at time T0 and after a period PS of, for example, 14 minutes, the electronic board 35 is configured to flash the indicator light 45 for an initial period P1 lasting, for example, one minute. The expiration of the first period P1 corresponds to reaching time Ter, at which point the regulatory usage time of the hood expires, which is, for example, 15 minutes. This regulatory usage time is determined by the manufacturer based on the availability of oxygen in the reservoir.

[0115]

[0121] Then the indicator light 45 is kept constantly illuminated for a second period P2, for example of 3 minutes, and then the electronic board 35 is configured to turn off the indicator light 45 at the end of the second period P2. The user must be able to remove the hood before the end of this period P2.

[0116]

[0122] The invention thus provides an effective alert to the user, so that he can manage the intervention time and remove the hood in time, when the oxygen reserve of the hood 1 is exhausted.

[0117]

[0123] Other alert sequences can of course be considered, for example using another light sequence and / or a sound sequence.

[0118]

[0124] The 30-minute timer is configured to trigger independently of the oxygen reserve triggering.

[0119]

[0125] We will now describe the steps of a packaging process for a protective hood 1, as described above, in a vacuum-sealed bag 50. The packaging process comprises the following steps: fold the hood 1 so that the handle 10 remains visible and accessible when the hood 1 is folded; place the folded hood 1 in the bag 50; and seal the bag 50.

[0120]

[0126] During folding, the visor 7 is placed on the folded soft cover 2 (see figure 1) so that folds of the soft cover are behind the visor 7.

[0121]

[0127] Preferably, the visor 7 is positioned as flat as possible or keeping its initial curvature against the articulated device to avoid the phenomenon of cracking in the material when it remains constrained by folding for a long period of storage which can be between 10 and 15 years.

[0122]

[0128] We will now describe the steps of a method for deploying a hood 1 as described above, initially stored under vacuum in a folded state in a bag 50. The method comprises the following step: opening the bag 50 by user II to remove the hood 1 in its folded state (see Figure 7); lifting the hood 1, initially folded, using the handle 10 held by the user, to the raised position, so that the flexible envelope 2 can unfold by the weight of the base of the flexible envelope 2 and the articulated device 5, to move from the folded to the unfolded state (see Figure 2); when the flexible envelope 2 is in the unfolded state, turning the hood 1 over and separating the two rigid parts 20 and 21 from each other to move the articulated device 5 to the unfolded position, so that the user can put on the hood. 1.

[0123]

[0129] Thanks to the invention, it is possible to deploy the hood 1 simply by holding it vertically using the handle 10, without having to shake the hood abruptly.

[0124]

[0130] The 30-minute timer is triggered when the articulated device 5 moves from the folded position to the unfolded position during deployment.

[0125]

[0131] We will now describe, with reference to figures 9 to 12, a Venturi effect gas injection device 100 according to an example of an embodiment of the invention, connected, on the one hand, to the oxygen reserve 24 and, on the other hand, to the CO2 capture cartridge 25, so as to distribute a gaseous mixture containing the first gas (O2) and the second gas (the air treated through the CO2 capture cartridge 24).

[0126]

[0132] The Venturi effect gas injection device 100 includes a primary nozzle 101 configured to deliver the first gas, here oxygen, which is accelerated by the effect of a converging cone 102 of this primary nozzle 101.

[0133] This primary nozzle 101 is in the extension of a channel 104 configured for the flow of oxygen from the oxygen reservoir 24 to the primary nozzle 101, this channel 104 and the primary nozzle 101 being formed on a first monobloc body 105.

[0127]

[0134] The Venturi effect gas injection device 100 further includes a secondary nozzle 110 into which the primary nozzle 101 opens and is configured to draw in by Venturi effect the second gas, here treated air, which mixes with the first gas delivered by the primary nozzle 101 so as to create a gas mixture delivered by this secondary nozzle 110.

[0128]

[0135] This secondary nozzle 110 is formed on a second monobloc body 112.

[0129]

[0136] The first and second one-piece bodies 105 and 112 are welded or screwed or glued together, and are made of plastic, obtained by molding.

[0130]

[0137] The design and manufacture of the Venturi 100 gas injection device is simplified. In particular, it is possible to reduce the number of parts required to manufacture this injection device. Specifically, the primary nozzle 101 and the channel 104, which delivers the initial gas to this primary nozzle 101, are formed from a single, monolithic body 105.

[0131]

[0138] In the example described, the channel 104 for the flow of first gas from the reservoir 24 to the primary nozzle 101 has a U-shaped form.

[0132]

[0139] One of the ends 114 of the channel 104 is configured to be put into communication with a tip 115 of the oxygen reservoir 24.

[0133]

[0140] This end 114 of channel 104 is called the channel 104 input.

[0134]

[0141] The outlet of channel 104 is through the primary nozzle 101 which is configured to accelerate, by the effect of the converging cone 102, the oxygen which exits channel 104.

[0135]

[0142] The U-shaped channel 104 has two parallel branches 116 and 118 and a transverse branch 117 connecting the two parallel branches 116 and 118.

[0136]

[0143] The two parallel branches 116 and 118 of the U-shaped channel 104 are formed entirely from the mass of the first monobloc body 105.

[0137]

[0144] In this example, branches 116, 117 and 118 of channel 104 are made from the mass of the first one-piece body 105, which is made of plastic material.

[0138]

[0145] In a variant illustrated in Figure 13, the transverse branch 117 of the U-shaped channel 104 is formed by a groove 119 in the first monobloc body 105, groove 119 closed by a cover 120 in a sealed manner. For example, the cover 120 is welded to the first monobloc body 105. The cover 120 has an elongated shape, with an oblong rim that comes into contact with the first monobloc body 105. The cover 120 helps to define the transverse branch 117 of the channel 104 in II.

[0139]

[0146] As can be seen, the hood 120 can be a part welded or glued onto the one-piece body 105 (see figure 13), or be manufactured at the same time as the one-piece body 105, in the same mass of material (see figures 9 and 10).

[0140]

[0147] The branch 116 of the U-shaped channel 104 which gives access to the inlet 114, namely the branch of the U which is connected to the oxygen reservoir, is formed in a cylindrical portion of the first body 105.

[0141]

[0148] This cylindrical portion of the first body 105 is defined by a column 125 which rests on the second monobloc body 112.

[0142]

[0149] The second monobloc body 112 includes a tube 126 which defines the secondary nozzle 110.

[0143]

[0150] Tube 126 has a narrowing neck 127 which contributes to the Venturi effect.

[0144]

[0151] The primary nozzle 101 opens into the secondary nozzle 110 upstream of the throat 127 of the secondary nozzle 110, as can be clearly seen in Figure 10.

[0145]

[0152] The second body 112 includes, in addition to the secondary nozzle 110, a plate 128 with an opening 129 through which extends the channel 104 between the gas reserve 24 and the primary nozzle 101.

[0146]

[0153] The secondary nozzle 110 includes a hollow cup 142 to which the tube 126 is connected, forming the neck 127. This hollow cup 142 has a truncated conical shape inside and the primary nozzle 101 opens near the bottom of this hollow cup 142, opposite the neck 127.

[0147]

[0154] The treated air is drawn in through this hollow cup 142 and is mixed with the oxygen coming out of the primary nozzle 101.

[0148]

[0155] The hollow cup 142, with a cylindrical outer contour, connects to the plate 128.

[0149]

[0156] The gas injection device 100 further includes a connection element 130 configured to cooperate with the first gas reserve 24.

[0150]

[0157] The gas reservoir 24 includes a distribution head 131 configured to engage in this connection element 130 of the gas injection device.

[0151]

[0158] The distribution head 131, generally spherical, of the gas reservoir 24 is configured to cooperate with the connecting member 130 of the injection device by forming a spherical or ball joint 22.

[0152]

[0159] This joint 22 is described above with reference to the articulated device 5 which includes the two rigid parts 20 and 21 connected by the joint 22 allowing these two rigid parts 20 and 21 to move from a folded position (state represented on figure 4) preventing the passage of the user's head into the hood 1 to an unfolded position (state represented on figure 5) allowing the passage of the user's head into the hood 1.

[0153]

[0160] The connecting member 130 of the gas injection device 100 includes a spherical cavity 133, this cavity 133 being open to form a female connecting member in which the generally spherical distribution head 131 of the gas reserve 24 is engaged.

[0154]

[0161] The gas reservoir 24 includes the distribution nozzle 115 initially closed by a capsule 135 (see figure 12).

[0155]

[0162] The pivoting of the distribution head 131 of the gas reservoir 24 within the connecting member 130 of the injection device causes the capsule 135 to be withdrawn (by breaking) and the distribution nozzle 115 to be released, allowing the oxygen in the gas reservoir to be distributed into the channel 104 of the gas injection device, corresponding to Figures 10 and 11. The capsule 135, after breaking, is trapped in a recess 139 (visible in Figure 11) of the connecting member 130, and the recess 139 is adjacent to the cavity 133.

[0156]

[0163] The 130 connection unit is formed as a single piece.

[0157]

[0164] In the example of Figure 13, the connecting member 130 is fixed in an opening of the plate 128 of the second monobloc body 112. The connecting member 130 has a passage 138, on the top of the sphere, for the insertion of the end of the column 125 forming the channel 104 of the first monobloc body.

[0158]

[0165] In general, the plate 128 of the gas injection device 100 is configured to be fixed to one end of the CO2 capture cartridge 25. The plate 128 is bordered by an annular skirt 140 which cooperates with a cylindrical wall of the cartridge 25.

[0159]

[0166] As illustrated in a variant in figures 14 to 16, the one-piece bodies 105, 112 are arranged to cooperate in a clamping assembly.

[0160]

[0167] By tight fit, it is understood that there is a fit between the first one-piece body 105 and the second one-piece body 112 in which an internal part of one of these two bodies is slightly larger than the bore of the other body so that it is necessary to force the assembly to fit the two one-piece bodies 105, 112 together.

[0161]

[0168] This design eliminates the positioning and functional play typically found in other types of fastening, such as clip-on fasteners. Indeed, with these other fastening methods, some positioning play is necessary for proper attachment. However, the greater the play, the higher the likelihood of misalignment between parts.

[0162]

[0169] Thus, the alignment between the first monobloc body 105 and the second monobloc body 112 is optimal. The primary nozzle 101 and the secondary nozzle 110 are perfectly aligned. Mechanical stability is also improved.

[0163]

[0170] According to one aspect of the invention, the clamping assembly is achieved by moving the two monobloc bodies 105, 112 relative to each other along an extension axis 200 of the primary nozzle 101 and the secondary nozzle 110. This axis corresponds to the general direction of flow through the primary nozzle 101 and the secondary nozzle 110.

[0164]

[0171] The clamping assembly is obtained by the presence of at least one boss 210 on the first 105 and / or the second monobloc body 112 adapted to cooperate with a surface of the second 112 and / or first monobloc body 105.

[0165]

[0172] The at least one boss 210 corresponds to a bulge that serves to improve mechanical strength in the clamping assembly, i.e., a press-fit assembly. The boss 210 can also be called a knurled edge. Preferably, the boss 210 corresponds to a rib extending parallel to the extension axis 200.

[0166]

[0173] According to one aspect of the invention, the one-piece bodies 105 and 112 are arranged to butt against each other along the extension axis 200. This allows for the definition of a final mounting position. Here, the first one-piece body 105 has a cooperation surface 220 with the plate 128 of the second one-piece body 112, which is pressed against the plate 128 by means of a form-based cooperation.

[0167]

[0174] Also, the one-piece bodies 105 and 112 have transverse stops along the extension axis 200, designed to ensure alignment along the extension axis 200 during the press-fit assembly of the two one-piece bodies 105 and 112. Here, a final portion 225 of the column 125 protrudes from the cooperation surface 220, and the corresponding bore in the second one-piece body 112 has a complementary shape (except for the bosses 210, which protrude). The bosses 210 are at least partially formed on this final portion 225. The bosses 210 can be evenly distributed. The bosses 210 can start from the cooperation surface 220 and have a shorter length than the final portion 225 of the column 125. This facilitates the start of assembly by offering less resistance to the positioning of the first monobloc body 105 in the second monobloc body 112.

[0168]

[0175] The cooperation surface 220 can be a surface of a complementary plate 228 of the first monobloc body 105. The first monobloc body 105 can further include a threaded sleeve 229 extending parallel to the extension axis 200 and suitable for receiving a fixing screw 230 passing through a hole in the plate 128.

[0169]

[0176] Also, the supplementary plate 228 and the plate 128 can be provided with tapped or untapped holes to add screw fixing points.

[0170]

[0177] The threaded sleeve 229 can be fixed to the supplementary plate 228. This construction limits the deformation of the first monobloc body 105. Furthermore, a first reinforcing plate 235 of the first monobloc body 105 can be adapted to connect the column 125, the threaded sleeve 229, and the supplementary plate 228. The first reinforcing plate 235 extends transversely to the supplementary plate 228.

[0171]

[0178] A second reinforcing plate 236 can connect the socket to the primary nozzle 101. The second reinforcing plate can be parallel to the first and preferably continuous with it. The second reinforcing plate 236 can also include at least one boss 210 adapted to cooperate with a slot formed in a lug 238 attached to the plate 128 of the second monobloc body 112. Transverse alignment with the extension axis 200 is thereby improved.

[0172]

[0179] According to a manufacturing process for a Venturi 100 effect gas injection device, the two monobloc bodies are assembled in a single operation corresponding to a rectilinear translation.

[0173]

[0180] This translation is carried out along the extension axis 200. As detailed above, the correct positioning is achieved automatically during this rectilinear translation in the direction where the force assembly and the various stops ensure perfect alignment.

[0174]

[0181] The monobloc bodies 105, 112 are each made from a single piece.

[0175]

[0182] Preferably, each one-piece body 105, 112 is produced by molding in a single operation, resulting in a single-piece component. Molding, particularly in plastic, is well-suited for achieving the geometry of these one-piece components.

[0176]

[0183] The proposed construction also reduces the number of parts because each monobloc body 105, 112 consists of only one piece which by definition cannot have gaps appear between these different elements unlike an assembly for which the gaps add up and could lead to a misalignment between the primary nozzle 101 and the secondary nozzle 110. The mechanical strength is also improved.

Claims

DEMANDS

1. A Venturi-effect gas injection device (100) comprising: a primary nozzle (101) configured to deliver a first gas, in particular oxygen, which is accelerated by the effect of a converging cone (102) of this primary nozzle (101); a channel (104) configured for the flow of the first gas from a first gas reservoir (24) to the primary nozzle (101); this channel (104) and the primary nozzle (101) being formed on a first monobloc body (105); a secondary nozzle (110) into which the primary nozzle (101) opens and configured to draw in, by Venturi effect, a second gas, for example treated air, which mixes with the first gas delivered by the primary nozzle (101) so as to create a gas mixture delivered by this secondary nozzle (110); this secondary nozzle (110) being formed on a second monobloc body (112).

2. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the channel (104) for the flow of first gas from the first gas reservoir to the primary nozzle (101) has a II shape, in particular with one end of the channel (104) configured to be made to communicate with a tip of the first gas reservoir.

3. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to the preceding claim, in which a branch of the channel (104) in II which gives on the inlet, namely the branch of the channel (104) in II which is connected to the first gas reserve, is formed in a cylindrical portion of the first body, this cylindrical portion of the first body being defined in particular by a column (125) which rests on the second monobloc body (112).

4. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second one-piece body (112) includes a tube that defines the secondary nozzle, and the tube forming the secondary nozzle (110) includes in particular a constricted neck (127) that participates in the Venturi effect.

5. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the primary nozzle (101) opens into the secondary nozzle (110) upstream of the throat of the secondary nozzle.

6. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the second body comprises, in addition to the secondary nozzle, a plate (128) with an opening (129) through which the channel (104) extends between the first gas reserve (24) and the primary nozzle (101), the plate (128) being configured in particular to be attached to a CO2 capture cartridge (25).

7. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gas injection device includes a connecting member (130) configured to cooperate with the first gas reservoir, and the first gas reservoir (24) includes in particular a distribution head (131) configured to engage in this connecting member of the gas injection device.

8. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the distribution head (131) of the first gas reservoir (24) is configured to cooperate with the connecting member of the injection device by forming a spherical or ball joint.

9. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one-piece bodies (105, 112) are made of plastic material, and are obtained in particular by molding.

10. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one-piece bodies (105, 112) are arranged to cooperate in a clamping assembly.

11. Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the clamping assembly is obtained by the presence of at least one boss (210) on the first (105) and / or the second one-piece body (112) adapted to cooperate with a surface of the second (112) and / or first one-piece body (105).

12. Method of manufacturing a Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the two one-piece bodies (105, 112) are assembled in a single operation corresponding to a rectilinear translation.

13. A manufacturing method according to claim 12, wherein the one-piece bodies (105, 112) are each made in one piece.

14. Protective hood (1) comprising: a flexible envelope (2) configured to be stored in a folded state and to be put on, in an unfolded state, through an open base of the flexible envelope, over the the user's head, an articulated device (5) attached to the open base and configured to fit around the user's neck when the flexible hood is put on the user's head, the articulated device comprising at least two rigid parts connected by a joint allowing these two rigid parts to move from a folded position preventing the user's head from passing through the hood to an unfolded position allowing the user's head to pass through the hood, one of the rigid parts being a CO2 capture cartridge and the other of the rigid parts being a gas reservoir, - a Venturi effect gas injection device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, connected on one side to the reservoir (24) by the channel (104) opening into the primary nozzle (101), and on the other side, to the CO2 capture cartridge (25) by the secondary nozzle (110), so as to distribute a gaseous mixture containing the first gas (O2) and the second gas.

Citation Information

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