Modular device for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder with adjustable part

Abstract

The invention is directed to a head of a device (2) for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder, comprising a head body (4.2) with a gas entry, a gas outlet (8) and a gas passage (18.2) interconnecting the gas entry with the gas outlet (8); a fixation interface for fixing the head body (4.2) to the device (2); a longitudinal pin (20) carried by the head body (4.2) for operating a shut-off valve (10) of the device (2); a first spindle (22) extending through the head body (4.2) and configured for, upon actuation, move in translation the longitudinal pin (20); and a gas flow or pressure regulator (14) fluidly located in the gas passage (18.2) between the gas entry and the gas outlet (8) and adjustable by a second spindle extending transversally.

Description

MODULAR DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A FLOW OF GAS ON A GAS CYLINDER WITH ADJUSTABLE PART

[0001] The invention is directed to the field of pressure and / or flow regulators for compressed gas in gas cylinders.

[0002] Prior art patent document published WO 2020 / 074330 A1 discloses a gas pressure reducer for gas cylinder. The gas pressure reducer comprises a pressure reducer and a shut-off valve upstream thereof and aligned therewith. The gas pressure reducer further comprises an actuation assembly with a spindle aligned with the pressure reducer and the shut-off valve and with a cam mechanism made of a cam spigot and a counter-cam spigot, both housed in the spindle. Rotation of the spindle by the hand-wheel causes rotation of the cam spigot relative with the counter-cam spigot, thereby causing a translation movement of the counter-cam spigot. The shutter of the shut-off valve comprises a stem extending through the pressure reducer until the counter-cam spigot. Rotation of the spindle by the hand-wheel causes also rotation of a disk provided with calibrated holes for selecting a flow rate, downstream of the pressure reducer. The head part of the gas pressure reducer is fixed to the main body by means of a large nut. The distal end of the stem of the shutter is in engagement with the disk-shaped wall into which the counter-cam spigot engages in rotation. This gas pressure reducer is particularly interesting by its compactness and ease of use. However, it shows a single pressure reducer stage, thereby limiting its versatility.Technical Problem

[0003] The invention has for technical problem to overcome at least one of the drawbacks of the above cited prior art. More particularly, the invention has for technical problem to provide a device for controlling a flow of gas with an improved modularity and versatility.Technical solution

[0004] The invention is directed to a head of a device for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder, comprising a head body with a gas entry, a gas outlet and a gas passage interconnecting the gas entry with the gas outlet; a fixation mechanism for fixing the head body to the device; a longitudinal pin carried by the head body for operating a shut-off valve of the device; a first spindle extending through the head body and configured for, upon rotation, move in translation the longitudinal pin; characterized in that the head further comprises a gas flow or pressure regulator fluidly located in the gas passage between the gas entry and the gas outlet and adjustable by a second spindle extending transversally.

[0005] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second spindle is perpendicular to the first spindle.

[0006] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the head body comprises a cavity of the gas flow or pressure regulator, bearing the second spindle.

[0007] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention the cavity is a first cavity, the head body comprising a second cavity opposed to the first cavity and extended by a housing attached to said head body, wherein said housing and said second cavity house the gas flow or pressure regulator.

[0008] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the gas flow or pressure regulator comprises a needle flow restrictor comprising a needle seat and a needle shutter engaging through said needle seat and movable in translation by rotation of the second spindle.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the head further comprises a secondary pressure regulator fluidly located in the gas passage between the gas inlet and the needle flow restrictor.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the secondary pressure regulator comprises a secondary regulator seat, a secondary regulator shutter configured for cooperating with said secondary regulator seat, a secondary regulator pressure sensor downstream of said secondary regulator seat, configured for moving the secondary regulator shutter dependent on the pressure downstream of said secondary regulator seat, and a secondary regulator spring acting on the secondary regulator pressure sensor.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the secondary regulator shutter comprises a secondary regulator poppet located upstream of the secondary regulator seat and comprises a secondary regulator stem extending longitudinally from the secondary regulator poppet through the secondary regulator seat.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein the secondary regulator pressure sensor is a membrane with a circumferential edge sandwiched between a seat formed in the head body and a cap engaged with said head body and housing the secondary regulator spring.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first spindle is located between the longitudinal pin and the membrane.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the gas flow or pressure regulator comprises a secondary pressure regulator comprising a secondary regulator seat, a secondary regulator shutter configured for cooperating with said secondary regulator seat, a pressure sensor downstream of said secondary regulator seat, configured for moving the secondary regulator shutter dependent on the pressure downstream of said secondary regulator seat, and a spring acting on the pressure sensor.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the secondary regulator seat is adjustable in translation by rotation of the second spindle.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the head further comprises an electric motor with a motor shaft mechanically coupled to the second spindle.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second spindle and the motor shaft are parallel and located laterally to, and on opposed sides of the first spindle.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the second spindle and the motor shaft are parallel and located laterally to, and on opposed sides of the first spindle.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, second spindle is mechanically coupled to the gas flow or pressure regulator by an eccentric.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the electric motor is a servomotor, preferably with an angular position sensor being a potentiometer.

[0021] A device for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder, comprising a device body with a first end forming a gas inlet, and a second end that is opposed to the first end and with a bore opening out at said second end; a primary pressure regulator housed in the bore; a shut-off valve located in the device body upstream of the primary pressure regulator; a head fixed to the second end and comprising a gas outlet; wherein the head is according to the invention.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the primary pressure regulator comprises a primary regulator seat, a primary regulator shutter downstream of said primary regulator seat, and a piston with a sleeve extending longitudinally towards the primary regulator seat and carrying the primary regulator shutter; the shut-off valve comprises a shut-off seat and a shut-off shutter for cooperating with said shut-off seat, said shut-off shutter comprising a poppet upstream of the shut-off seat and a stem extending from said poppet through the shut-off seat, the primary regulator seat and the sleeve, said stem contacting in said sleeve the longitudinal pin of the head.Advantages of the invention

[0023] The invention is particularly interesting in that it provides modularity, compactness and versatility. Various heads can indeed by customized to various applications while using the same device body and its detailed constructions and assembly. Also, the presence of a gas flow or pressure regulator on the head, i.e. separate from, and out of, the device body, provides an additional function, for instance a gas flow or pressure regulation function, thereby increasing the versatility of the device. The construction of the gas flow or pressure regulator on the head is particularly compact. Also, the optional use of an electric motor for automatically adjusting the gas flow or pressure regulator on the head is particularly practicable because of the limited torque necessary therefor, contrary to operating the shut-off valve of the device.Brief description of the drawings

[0024] is a perspective view of a device for controlling a flow of gas, according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0025] is a longitudinal sectional view of the device of.

[0026] is a front view of the device of figures 1 and 2.

[0027] is a horizontal sectional view IV-IV of the head of the device of.

[0028] is a perspective view of a device for controlling a flow of gas, according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0029] is a perspective view of a device for controlling a flow of gas, according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0030] is a longitudinal sectional view of the devices of figures 5 and 6.

[0031] is a longitudinal section view of the device of, perpendicular to the longitudinal section view of.

[0032] is a longitudinal section view of the device of, perpendicular to the longitudinal section view of.Description of an embodiment

[0033] shows in perspective a device 2 for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder, according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0034] The device 2 comprises a body 4 with a gas inlet 6, a gas outlet 8 and a gas passage (not visible) controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder fluidly interconnecting said gas inlet and gas outlet. The body 4 comprises a device body 4.1 with a male threaded portion 4.1.1 at the gas inlet 6, for engaging with the female thread of a neck of a gas cylinder, as this is customary. That male threaded portion 4.1.1 is for instance integrally formed with the device body 4.1, being however understood that this is not mandatory. The body 4 further comprises a head body 4.2 that is secured to the device body 4.1 by mutual engagement of respective interface being for instance flanges. This construction of the body 4 is a preferred embodiment, being understood that variations in the construction of body 4 can be considered.

[0035] The device 2 further comprises a shut-off valve 10 that is not visible. The shut-off valve 10 is operable by the lever 16 at the top of the device 2.

[0036] The device 2 further comprises a primary pressure regulator 12 (not visible).

[0037] The device 2 further comprises a secondary pressure regulator 14, as a second stage, downstream of the primary pressure regulator 12 and upstream of the gas outlet 8. The secondary pressure regulator 14 is preferably adjustable by an electric motor 14.10 at the top of the device 2.

[0038] In the above device 2, the shut-off valve 10 and the primary pressure regulator 12 are aligned with a longitudinal axis of said device 2, this axis being vertical when the device is in a normal operating position as illustrated in. Further, the shut-off valve 10 is operable from a top portion of the device 2, for instance by the lever 16. To that end, a push rod assembly (not visible in) extends longitudinally through the pressure regulator between the shut-off valve 10 and the lever 16.

[0039] The above construction is particularly interesting in that it is highly compact while providing many functions, including a shut-off valve 10, a primary, or first stage, pressure regulator 12 downstream of the shut-off valve 10 and a secondary, or second stage, pressure regulator 14 on the removable head of the device 2.

[0040] is a longitudinal sectional view of the device of.

[0041] The gas passage 18, for instance its lower section 18.1, fluidly interconnecting the gas inlet 6 with the gas outlet 8 is formed in the device body 4.1 by a central and longitudinal drill hole or bore showing different portions with different diameters. The upper portion of the device body 4.1 comprises a main bore opening out upwardly and closed by the head body 4.2. The head body 4.2 is for instance comprised essentially of a main part 4.2.1 pressed by its flange against the device body 4.1 in a gas tight fashion, and a disk-shaped part 4.2.2 delimiting the gas passage. The main part 4.2.1 supports the lever 16 and forms an inner cavity housing the secondary pressure regulator 14. The main bore of the device body 4.1 houses the primary pressure regulator 12. The latter comprises essentially a primary regulator seat 12.1, a primary regulator shutter 12.2 cooperating with the primary regulator seat 12.1, a primary regulator mobile element or gas sensor 12.3 received in the main bore and carrying the primary regulator shutter 12.2, and a primary regulator spring 12.4 resting on the device body 4 and acting on the primary regulator mobile element 12.3. The primary regulator mobile element 12.3 delimits in the main bore a primary regulator regulating chamber 12.5 into which the pressure-reduced gas flows and exerts against the primary regulator mobile element 12.3, acting as a pressure sensor, a regulating force opposite the resilient force of the primary regulator spring 12.4. The functioning principle of the primary pressure regulator is a such well-known from the skilled person and therefore does not need to be further detailed.

[0042] The shut-off valve 10 comprises a shut-off seat 10.1, a shut-off shutter 10.2 and a shut-off spring 10.3 urging the shut-off shutter 10.2 against the shut-off seat 10.1. The shut-off shutter 10.2 comprises a poppet 10.2.1 located on an upstream side of the shut-off seat 10.1 and urged by the shut-off spring 10.3 towards said shut-off seat 10.1, and a stem 10.2.2 extending from said poppet 10.2.1 through the shut-off seat 10.1 towards and through the pressure regulator 12. The latter comprises indeed a longitudinally extending hole receiving the end of the stem 10.2.2 and through which a longitudinal pin 20 extends for operating the shut-off valve 10 by moving the shut-off shutter 10.2. The longitudinal pin 20 is configured to move in translation along the longitudinal axis of device 2 and of said longitudinal pin when the lever 16 is actuated in rotation by virtue of a circular ramp 20.1 on said longitudinal pin 20. The latter comprises for instance a radial ring portion 20.2 on which the circular ramp 20.1 is formed. The circular ramp 20.1 is configured to cooperate with a contact surface which is fixed and for instance formed on the disk-shaped part 4.2.2 of the head body 4.2, such that upon relative rotation around the longitudinal axis, the longitudinal pin 20 moves in translation. The longitudinal pin 20 comprises a proximal end portion extending through the disk-shaped part 4.2.2, and engaging, in rotation but not in translation, with a first spindle 22 rotatably supported by the main part 4.2.1 of the head body 4.2 and carrying the lever 16. This means that rotation of the lever 16 will be transmitted to the first spindle 22 and the longitudinal pin 20, whereas the latter will move in translation by virtue of the cam mechanism detailed here above.

[0043] The primary regulator mobile element 12.3 comprises a piston in gas-tight contact with the main bore of the device body 4.1, a sleeve extending longitudinally from the piston, towards the primary regulator seat 12.1, and a shaft mounted into the sleeve and forming at this distal end the primary regulator shutter 12.2 that is for instance a conical surface. The distal end of the stem 10.2.2 of the shut-off shutter 10.2 extends partially through the central longitudinally extending hole formed in the shaft of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3. The above detailed construction and functioning principle of the device is detailed in the patent application published WO 2020 / 074325 A1 and the corresponding patent application published US 2021382506 A1 which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0044] The longitudinal pin 20 comprises a distal end portion protruding out and from the head body 4.2. When the head of the device is mounted on the device body 4.1, e.g. secured thereto by the respective flanges, the distal end portion of the longitudinal pin 20 extends through the shaft and sleeve of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3, detailed here above. The distal end portion of the longitudinal pin 20 comprises a distal end intended to contact a corresponding distal end of the stem 10.2.2 of the shut-off shutter 10.2. The distal end portion of the longitudinal pin 20 can therefore extend therefore deep into the shaft and sleeve of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3, e.g. at least over 10mm, preferably at least 20mm. The distal end portion of the longitudinal pin 20 is also generally cylindrical with a first proximal diameter and a distal reduced diameter. This provides the longitudinal pin 20 mechanical stability and ease of insertion into the shaft and sleeve of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3.

[0045] The distal end portion of the longitudinal pin 20, protruding out and from the head body 4.2 allows also the stem 10.2.2 of the shut-off shutter 10.2 to have a limited length, thereby simplifying its manufacturing and manipulation during assembly. Its reduced diameter renders indeed its manufacturing and manipulation difficult when extending over a longer length.

[0046] As this is apparent in, the primary regulator mobile element 12.3 forms a recess or cavity in vis-à-vis of a radial ring portion 20.2 of the longitudinal pin 20, carrying the circular ramp 20.1, so as to accommodate said radial ring portion 20.2 over the stroke of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3 as well as the stroke of the longitudinal pin 20, in particular of the radial ring portion 20.2 thereof.

[0047] The resulting assembly of the head forms thereby a compact, simple and cheap construction, consisting essentially of four main parts, namely the first spindle 22 inserted into the main part 4.2.1 to which the disk-shaped part 4.2.2 and the longitudinal pin 20 are thereafter successively assembled. The disk-shaped part 4.2.2 of the head body 4.2 can form on its inner side a raised central portion engaging with the first spindle 22, thereby serving as bearing for the spindle 22.

[0048] Once assembled the head can be very easily mounted on the rest of the device 2, for instance on the device body 4.1 in that the head can be moved longitudinally and centred relative to the device body 4.1 by inserting the protruding longitudinal pin 20 into the shaft and sleeve of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3. Once the longitudinal pin 20 is inserted into the primary regulator mobile element 12.3, the head can be easily moved further longitudinally until the head body 4.2 contacts the device body 4.1 and thereafter be secured thereto by engaging the flanges.

[0049] During operation, for delivering gas with the device 2, the lever 16 is manipulated in rotation so as to rotate and translate downwardly the longitudinal pin 20 so that it moves the shut-off shutter 10.2 off the shut-off seat 10.1 and opens the shut-off valve 10. The gas can then flow until the primary regulator seat 12.1 and primary regulator shutter 12.2. The primary regulator 12 is normally open by virtue of the primary regulator spring 12.4 urging the primary regulator mobile element 12.3 and the primary regulator shutter 12.2 carried thereby, away from the primary regulator seat 12.1. The gas can then flow through the primary pressure regulator 12 until the primary regulator regulating chamber 12.5 between the piston of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3 and the disk-shaped part 4.2.2 of the head body 4.2. The pressure in that chamber acts against the primary regulator spring 12.4 and thereby regulates the position of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3 and of the primary regulator shutter 12.2 carried thereby. This regulation principle is a such well-known in the art. The disk-shaped part 4.2.2 of the head body 4.2 comprise a gas passage (not visible) from the primary regulator regulating chamber 12.5 to the secondary pressure regulator 14, being for instance a second stage relative to the primary pressure reducer 12 being a first stage. The secondary pressure regulator 14 is not visible in.

[0050] The first spindle 22 serves only for operating the shut-off valve 10 via the longitudinal pin 20, meaning that the first spindle is only rotated over a large angular sector, e.g. between 90° and 180° for opening or closing the shut-off valve.

[0051] It is to be noted that the device 2 comprises a pressure relief device formed by the plate located between the regulator spring 12.4 and the part locked at the bottom of the bore receiving the primary pressure regulator 12. In case the pressure downstream of the primary regulator seat 12.1 and shutter 12.2 exceeds a predetermined value, the plate will be moved slightly away from the part locked at the bottom of the bore receiving the primary pressure regulator 12 and allow gas to escape through the vent passage formed in the wall of the device body 4.1, for instance at the left thereof. The device 2 comprises also a residual pressure device formed by the gasket on the upper face of the piston of the primary regulator mobile element 12.3. In the absence of pressure in the primary regulator regulating chamber 12.5, the primary regulator spring 12.4 urges the primary regulator mobile element 12.3 towards the head so that the gasket on the upper face thereof, in said primary regulator regulating chamber 12.5, contacts in a gas tight manner the disk-shaped part 4.2.2 of head body 4.2 and forms a barrier preventing the gas from flowing further. A minimum pressure, e.g. of a few bar, is necessary for opening that gas barrier. The general principle of a residual pressure device is as such well known in the art. In the present case, it shows however a particular construction. It is also to be noted that the gasket provided between the raised portion on the inner side of the disk-shaped part 4.2.2 of the head body 4.2 and the corresponding bore in the disk portion of the first spindle 22 prevents the gas from flowing away when the residual pressure device as detailed here above is in a closed position.

[0052] is a front view of the device of figures 1 and 2, showing the secondary pressure regulator 14.

[0053] is a horizontal sectional view IV-IV of the head of the device of.

[0054] The secondary pressure regulator 14 comprises a secondary regulator seat 14.1, that is for instance mobile in translation, a secondary regulator shutter 14.2 that is movable and cooperates with the secondary regulator seat 14.1. The secondary pressure regulator 14 further comprises a secondary regulator mobile element 14.3, or gas sensor, that carries the secondary regulator shutter 14.2, is urged by the secondary regulator spring 14.4 and delimits with the head body 4.2 a secondary regulator regulating chamber 14.5. The functioning principle of the secondar pressure regulator 14 is similar to the primary pressure regulator 12 and does not need to be further detailed.

[0055] As this is apparent, in the present case, the head body 4.2, for instance its main part 4.2.1 forms a cavity 4.2.3 that is closed by the cap-shaped housing 14.6 of the secondary pressure regulator 14 that is secured to said head body 4.2. The cavity 4.2.3 and housing 14.6 house the above detailed secondary pressure regulator 14.

[0056] The secondary regulator seat 14.1 is formed by the pointed edge of a cylindrical part that is adjustable in translation by rotation of a second spindle 14.7 supported by the head body 4.2, for instance its main part 4.2.1, via the cap 14.8. In particular, the second spindle 14.7 is engaged in rotation but not in translation with the cylindrical part forming the secondary regulator seat 14.1. Also, the cylindrical part forming the secondary regulator seat 14.1 is threadably engaged with the head body 4.2, for instance via the cap 14.8, meaning that rotation of the second spindle 14.7 causes rotation and translation of the cylindrical part forming the secondary regulator seat 14.1.

[0057] The second spindle 14.7 is in mesh engagement via two gears 14.9 with an electrical motor 14.9. An electrical control of the motor 14.9 allows therefore to control the outlet pressure of the secondary pressure regulator 14.

[0058] The secondary pressure regulator 14 operates as follows. The gas passing through the opened shut-off valve 10 (see figures 1 and 2) and having its pressure reduced at a first stage by the primary pressure regulator 12 (see figures 1 and 2) reaches the cavity 4.2.4 into which the cylindrical part forming the secondary regulator seat 14.1 is located. That gas flows through said cylindrical part and reaches the secondary regulator shutter 14.2 and passes through the annular passage between said shutter and the secondary regulator seat 14.1, for reaching the secondary regulator regulating chamber 14.5. The gas pressure in that secondary regulator regulating chamber 14.5 controls movements of the secondary regulator mobile element 14.3 and shutter 14.2, thereby controlling the flow section through the valve formed by the second regulator seat 14.1 and second regulator shutter 14.2. The cavity in the head body 4.2, around the second regulator seat 14.1 is in direct fluidic connection with the gas outlet 8.

[0059] As this is apparent in, the electrical motor and the second spindle 14.7 are located on opposed sides of the longitudinal axis of the device, corresponding to the first spindle 22. This arrangement is therefore particularly compact.

[0060] shows in perspective a device for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder, according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0061] The reference numbers of the first embodiment are used for designating the same or corresponding elements of the second embodiment, there numbers being however incremented by 100. It is also referred to the description of these elements in relation with the first embodiment. Specific numbers comprised between 100 and 200 are used for designating specific elements.

[0062] The device 102 illustrated indiffers from the device 2 of the first embodiment, for instance in, essentially in that the secondary pressure regulator is replaced by a flow regulator 114, for instance a needle flow restrictor, that is adjustable via an electric motor. Also, the device 102 comprises a secondary pressure regulator 124 fluidly connected between the primary pressure regulator 110 and the flow regulator 114.

[0063] shows in perspective a device for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder, according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0064] The reference numbers of the second embodiment are used for designating the same or corresponding elements of the third embodiment, these numbers being however incremented by 100. It is also referred to the description of these elements in relation with the first embodiment. Specific numbers comprised between 200 and 300 are used for designating specific elements.

[0065] The device 202 inis very similar to the device 102 inand shows essentially as main difference that the flow regulator 214 is manually adjustable, via the visible hand-wheel.

[0066] is a longitudinal sectional view of the devices 102 and 202 of figures 5 and 6.

[0067] The device 102 or 202 differs from the device 2 of the first embodiment inessentially in that the first spindle 122 or 222 is oriented transversely, preferably perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis and cooperates with the longitudinal pin 120 or 220 by an eccentric at a corresponding end of the first spindle 122 or 222 that cooperates with said longitudinal pin 120 or 220, for converting a rotation of said first spindle 122 or 222 into a translation of said longitudinal pin 120 or 220. This means that the longitudinal pin 120 or 220 does not need to comprise a circular ramp 20.1 on a radial ring portion 20.3 as in the first embodiment ().

[0068] The devices 102 or 202 differs from the device 2 of the first embodiment inalso by the presence of the secondary pressure regulator 124 or 224 fluidly connected between the primary pressure regulator 110 or 210 and the flow regulator 114 or 214. The secondary pressure regulator 124 or 224 is advantageously oriented longitudinally off-set relative to the longitudinal pin 120 or 220. It comprises a secondary regulator seat 124 or 224 that is preferably formed in the head body 104.2 or 204.2, a secondary regulator shutter 124.2 that cooperates with said secondary regulator seat 124.1 or 224.2, a secondary regulator mobile element 124.3 or 224.3, or sensing element, forming preferably a membrane, cooperating with the secondary regulator shutter 124.2 or 224.2, and a secondary regulator spring 124.4 or 224.4 urging the mobile element 124.1 or 224.2 towards the secondary regulator shutter 124.2 or 224.2, so as to normally open the passage between the secondary regulator seat 124.1 or 224.2 and the secondary regulator shutter 124.2 or 224.2. The secondary regulator shutter 124.2 or 224.2 comprises a poppet 124.2.1 or 224.2.1 that is located upstream of the secondary regulator seat 124.1 or 224.1 and that is configured to contact said seat, and a stem 124.2.2 or 224.2.2 extending from the poppet 124.2.1 or 224.2.1 through the secondary regulator seat 124.1 or 224.2 until the mobile element 124.3 or 224.3. A secondary regulator regulating chamber 124.5 or 224.5 is formed between the mobile element 124.1 or 224.2 and the head body 104.2 or 204.2, downstream of the secondary regulator seat 124.1 or 224.1 and the secondary regulator shutter 124.2 or 224.2. The membrane formed by the mobile element 124.1 or 224.2 has for instance a circumferential edge sandwiched between a seat formed in the head body 104.2 or 204.2 and a cap 124.6 or 224.6 engaged with said head body 104.2 or 204.2 and housing the secondary regulator spring 124.4 or 224.4. An opposed second regulator spring 124.7, 224.7 is provided in the opposite side, on the poppet 124.2.1 or 224.2.1 side of the secondary regulator shutter 124.2 or 224.2.

[0069] is a longitudinal section view of the device of the second embodiment, in, perpendicular to the longitudinal section view of.

[0070] The flow regulator 114 is for instance a needle flow restrictor comprising a needle seat 114.1, a needle shutter 114.2 cooperating with the needle seat 114.1, and a needle spring 114.3 urging the needle shutter 114.2 towards the needle seat 114.1. The needle shutter 114.2 comprises a conical needle portion 114.2.1 extending through the needle seat 114.1 and configured to provide a progressively and finely adjustable flow section, and further comprises a needle stem 114.2.2 extending from the conical needle portion 114.2.1 through the retainer 114.4 until a second spindle 114.5 provided with an eccentric and driven in rotation by an electrical motor 114.6. The retainer 114.4 is received in a corresponding bore formed in the head body 104.2 and secured thereto, for instance by a retaining clip (not represented) engaging in the inner groove formed in the bore, being understood that other means can be considered. The retainer 114.4 comprises seals for providing a gas tight barrier with the bore and with the needle stem 114.2.2. The second spindle 115.5 extends transversely, preferably perpendicularly to the needle shutter 114.2, the latter extending transversely, preferably perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis of the device 102.

[0071] The electric motor 114.6 is advantageously a servomotor, i.e. a rotary actuator that allows for precise control of angular position. It can use a position-only sensing via a potentiometer and bang-bang control of the motor, where the motor either rotates at full speed or is stopped. This type of servomotor is simple and cheaper than more sophisticated servos with speed and position feedback. Such simplified servomotors are commonly used for radio-controlled models.

[0072] The operation of the device 102 is as follows. The gas passing through the opened shut-off valve 110 (see figures 5 and 7) and having its pressure reduced at a first stage by the primary pressure regulator 112 (see figures 5 and 7) reaches, through appropriate drillings (not visible) in the head body 104.2, the cavity into which the secondary regulator 124 is located. The secondary regulator 124 is normally open, so that the gas flows through the the annular passage between the secondary regulator shutter 124.2 and the secondary regulator seat 114.1, for reaching, through appropriate drillings (not visible) in the head body 104.2, the needle flow restrictor 114. The gas reaches the side of the needle seat 114.1 that is oriented towards the needle spring 114.3, and flows through the annular passage between the needle shutter 114.2 and the needle seat 114.1, for reaching, through appropriate drillings (not visible) in the head body 104.2, the outlet 108.

[0073] is a longitudinal section view of the device of the third embodiment, in, perpendicular to the longitudinal section view of.

[0074] The flow regulator 214 is for instance a needle flow restrictor, similarly to the needle flow regulator 114 of the second embodiment. It however differs from that embodiment in that the needle flow regulator is not electrically driven but only manually.

[0075] The needle flow regulator 214 comprises needle seat 214.1, a needle shutter 214.2 cooperating with the needle seat 214.1, an extension 214.3 of the needle shutter 214.2 anchoring said needle shutter 214.2 with the head body 204.2 via a threaded engagement, for instance via a wall of the needle cap 214.4 that engaged with the head body 204.2 and rotatably supports a second spindle 214.5. The latter is engaged in rotation but not in translation with the needle shutter extension 214.3, so that rotation of said second spindle 214.5 causes rotation and translation of the needle shutter 214.2. The second spindle is operated by a hand-wheel 214.6 anchored to the second spindle 214.5.

[0076] The operation of the device 202 is similar to the operation of the device 102. It is therefore referred to the above description of the operation of the device 102.

Claims

A head of a device (2; 102; 202) for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder, comprising:a head body (4.2; 104.2; 204.2) with a gas entry, a gas outlet (8; 108; 208) and a gas passage (18.2) interconnecting the gas entry with the gas outlet (8; 108; 208);a fixation interface for fixing the head body (4.2; 104.2; 204.2) to the device (2; 102; 202);a longitudinal pin (20; 120; 220) carried by the head body (4.2; 104.2; 204.2) for operating a shut-off valve (10; 110; 210) of the device (2; 102; 202);a first spindle (22; 122; 222) extending through the head body (4.2; 104.2; 204.2) and configured for, upon actuation, move in translation the longitudinal pin (20; 120; 220);characterized in that the head further comprises:a gas flow or pressure regulator (14; 114; 214) fluidly located in the gas passage (18.2) between the gas entry and the gas outlet (8; 108; 208) and adjustable by a second spindle (14.7; 114.5; 214.5) extending transversally.The head according to claim 1, wherein the second spindle (14.7; 114.5) is perpendicular to the first spindle (22; 122).The head according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the head body (4.2; 104.2; 204.2) comprises a cavity (4.2.4; 104.2.1; 204.2.1) of the gas flow or pressure regulator (14; 114; 214), bearing the second spindle (14.7; 114.5; 214.5).The head according to claim 3, wherein the cavity (4.2.4) is a first cavity, the head body (4.2) comprising a second cavity (4.2.3) opposed to the first cavity (4.2.4) and extended by a housing (14.6) attached to said head body (4.2) , wherein said housing (14.6) and said second cavity (4.2.3) house the gas flow or pressure regulator (14).The head according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gas flow or pressure regulator comprises a needle flow restrictor (114; 214) comprising a needle seat (114.1; 214.1) and a needle shutter (114.2; 214.2) engaging through said needle seat (114.1; 214.1) and movable in translation by rotation of the second spindle (114.5; 214.5).The head according to claim 5, wherein the head further comprises a secondary pressure regulator (124; 224) fluidly located in the gas passage between the gas inlet and the needle flow restrictor (114; 214).The head according to claim 6, wherein the secondary pressure regulator (124; 224) comprises a secondary regulator seat (124.1; 224.1), a secondary regulator shutter (124.2; 224.2) configured for cooperating with said secondary regulator seat (124.1; 224.1), a secondary regulator pressure sensor (124.3; 224.3) downstream of said secondary regulator seat (124.1; 224.1), configured for moving the secondary regulator shutter (124.2; 224.2) dependent on the pressure downstream of said secondary regulator seat (124.1; 224.1), and a secondary regulator spring (124.4; 224.4) acting on the secondary regulator pressure sensor (124.3; 224.3).The head according to claim 7, wherein the secondary regulator shutter (124.2; 224.2) comprises a secondary regulator poppet (124.2.1; 224.2.1) located upstream of the secondary regulator seat (124.1; 224.1) and comprises a secondary regulator stem (124.2.2; 224.2.2) extending longitudinally from the secondary regulator poppet (124.2.1; 224.2.1) through the secondary regulator seat (124.1; 224.1).The head according to one of claims 7 and 8, wherein the secondary regulator pressure sensor is a membrane (124.3; 224.3) with a circumferential edge sandwiched between a seat formed in the head body (104.2; 204.2) and a cap (124.6; 224.6) engaged with said head body and housing the secondary regulator spring (124.4; 224.4).The head according to claims 8 and 9, wherein the first spindle (122; 222) is located between the longitudinal pin (120; 220) and the membrane (124.3; 224.3).The head according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gas flow or pressure regulator comprises a secondary pressure regulator (14) comprising a secondary regulator seat (14.1), a secondary regulator shutter (14.2) configured for cooperating with said secondary regulator seat (14.1), a pressure sensor (14.3) downstream of said secondary regulator seat (14.1), configured for moving the secondary regulator shutter (14.2) dependent on the pressure downstream of said secondary regulator seat (14.1), and a spring (14.4) acting on the pressure sensor (14.3).The head according to claim 11, wherein the secondary regulator seat (14.1) is adjustable in translation by rotation of the second spindle (14.7).The head according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising an electric motor (14.10; 114.6) with a motor shaft mechanically coupled to the second spindle (14.7; 114.5).The head according to claim 13, wherein the second spindle (14.7) and the motor shaft are parallel and located laterally to, and on opposed sides of the first spindle (22).The head according to claim 13, wherein the second spindle (114.5) and the motor shaft are aligned, the motor shaft transversal, preferably perpendicular, to the first spindle (122).The head according to claim 15, wherein the second spindle (114.5) is mechanically coupled to the gas flow or pressure regulator (114) by an eccentric.The head according to one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the motor shaft is mechanically coupled to the second spindle (14.7) by a gearing unit (14.8).The head according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the electric motor (14.10; 114.6; 214.6) is a servomotor, preferably with an angular position sensor being a potentiometer.A device (2; 102; 202) for controlling a flow of gas on a gas cylinder, comprising:a device body (4.1; 104.1; 204.1) with a first end (4.1.1) forming a gas inlet (6; 106; 206), and a second end that is opposed to the first end and with a bore opening out at said second end;a primary pressure regulator (12, 12; 212) housed in the bore;a shut-off valve (10; 110; 210) located in the device body (4.1; 104.1; 204.1) upstream of the primary pressure regulator (12; 112; 212);a head fixed to the second end and comprising a gas outlet (8; 108; 208);characterized in that the head is according to any one of claims 1 to 18.The device (2; 102; 202) according to claim 19, wherein the primary pressure regulator (12; 112; 212) comprises a primary regulator seat (12.1), a primary regulator shutter (12.2) downstream of said primary regulator seat, and a piston (12.3) with a sleeve extending longitudinally towards the primary regulator seat (12.1) and carrying the primary regulator shutter (12.2); the shut-off valve (10; 110; 210) comprises a shut-off seat (10.1) and a shut-off shutter (10.2) for cooperating with said shut-off seat (10.1), said shut-off shutter (10.2) comprising a poppet (10.2.1) upstream of the shut-off seat (10.) and a stem (10.2.2) extending from said poppet (10.2.1) through the shut-off seat (10.1), the primary regulator seat (12.1) and the sleeve, said stem (10.2.2) contacting in said sleeve the longitudinal pin (20; 120; 220) of the head.

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