AU2018202754A1 - Connected gas distribution outlet with inbuilt flow meter - Google Patents

Connected gas distribution outlet with inbuilt flow meter Download PDF

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Publication number
AU2018202754A1
AU2018202754A1 AU2018202754A AU2018202754A AU2018202754A1 AU 2018202754 A1 AU2018202754 A1 AU 2018202754A1 AU 2018202754 A AU2018202754 A AU 2018202754A AU 2018202754 A AU2018202754 A AU 2018202754A AU 2018202754 A1 AU2018202754 A1 AU 2018202754A1
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AU
Australia
Prior art keywords
gas
gas distribution
distribution outlet
signal processing
processing means
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
AU2018202754A
Inventor
Franck Boeuf
Stephane Dudret
Jeanne PIGASSOU
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Air Liquide Sante International SA
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Original Assignee
Air Liquide SA
Air Liquide Sante International SA
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
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Application filed by Air Liquide SA, Air Liquide Sante International SA, LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude filed Critical Air Liquide SA
Publication of AU2018202754A1 publication Critical patent/AU2018202754A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/20—Closure caps or plugs for connectors or open ends of tubes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/22—Valves or arrangement of valves
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/22—Valves or arrangement of valves
    • A61M39/24—Check- or non-return valves
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/22—Valves or arrangement of valves
    • A61M39/26—Valves closing automatically on disconnecting the line and opening on reconnection thereof
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K15/00—Check valves
    • F16K15/02—Check valves with guided rigid valve members
    • F16K15/025—Check valves with guided rigid valve members the valve being loaded by a spring
    • F16K15/026—Check valves with guided rigid valve members the valve being loaded by a spring the valve member being a movable body around which the medium flows when the valve is open
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K15/00—Check valves
    • F16K15/02—Check valves with guided rigid valve members
    • F16K15/03—Check valves with guided rigid valve members with a hinged closure member or with a pivoted closure member
    • F16K15/031—Check valves with guided rigid valve members with a hinged closure member or with a pivoted closure member the hinge being flexible
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K17/00—Safety valves; Equalising valves, e.g. pressure relief valves
    • F16K17/02—Safety valves; Equalising valves, e.g. pressure relief valves opening on surplus pressure on one side; closing on insufficient pressure on one side
    • F16K17/04—Safety valves; Equalising valves, e.g. pressure relief valves opening on surplus pressure on one side; closing on insufficient pressure on one side spring-loaded
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K37/00—Special means in or on valves or other cut-off apparatus for indicating or recording operation thereof, or for enabling an alarm to be given
    • F16K37/0025—Electrical or magnetic means
    • F16K37/0033—Electrical or magnetic means using a permanent magnet, e.g. in combination with a reed relays
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K37/00—Special means in or on valves or other cut-off apparatus for indicating or recording operation thereof, or for enabling an alarm to be given
    • F16K37/0025—Electrical or magnetic means
    • F16K37/0041—Electrical or magnetic means for measuring valve parameters
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17D—PIPE-LINE SYSTEMS; PIPE-LINES
    • F17D5/00—Protection or supervision of installations
    • F17D5/02—Preventing, monitoring, or locating loss
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F1/00—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
    • G01F1/05—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using mechanical effects
    • G01F1/20—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using mechanical effects by detection of dynamic effects of the flow
    • G01F1/32—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using mechanical effects by detection of dynamic effects of the flow using swirl flowmeters
    • G01F1/3227—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using mechanical effects by detection of dynamic effects of the flow using swirl flowmeters using fluidic oscillators
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
    • G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
    • G16H20/00—ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance
    • G16H20/40—ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to mechanical, radiation or invasive therapies, e.g. surgery, laser therapy, dialysis or acupuncture
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
    • G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
    • G16H40/00—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices
    • G16H40/60—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the operation of medical equipment or devices
    • G16H40/67—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the operation of medical equipment or devices for remote operation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/08—Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
    • A61M16/0816—Joints or connectors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
    • A61M16/105—Filters
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/20—Valves specially adapted to medical respiratory devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/0003—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure
    • A61M2016/003—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure with a flowmeter
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/0003—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure
    • A61M2016/003—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure with a flowmeter
    • A61M2016/0033—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure with a flowmeter electrical
    • A61M2016/0039—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure with a flowmeter electrical in the inspiratory circuit
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/10—Tube connectors; Tube couplings
    • A61M2039/1027—Quick-acting type connectors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/10—Tube connectors; Tube couplings
    • A61M2039/1033—Swivel nut connectors, e.g. threaded connectors, bayonet-connectors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/22—Valves or arrangement of valves
    • A61M39/24—Check- or non-return valves
    • A61M2039/2473—Valve comprising a non-deformable, movable element, e.g. ball-valve, valve with movable stopper or reciprocating element
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/35—Communication
    • A61M2205/3546—Range
    • A61M2205/3561—Range local, e.g. within room or hospital
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
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    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/35—Communication
    • A61M2205/3546—Range
    • A61M2205/3569—Range sublocal, e.g. between console and disposable
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/35—Communication
    • A61M2205/3576—Communication with non implanted data transmission devices, e.g. using external transmitter or receiver
    • A61M2205/3584—Communication with non implanted data transmission devices, e.g. using external transmitter or receiver using modem, internet or bluetooth
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
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    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/35—Communication
    • A61M2205/3576—Communication with non implanted data transmission devices, e.g. using external transmitter or receiver
    • A61M2205/3592—Communication with non implanted data transmission devices, e.g. using external transmitter or receiver using telemetric means, e.g. radio or optical transmission
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/50—General characteristics of the apparatus with microprocessors or computers
    • A61M2205/502—User interfaces, e.g. screens or keyboards
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/58—Means for facilitating use, e.g. by people with impaired vision
    • A61M2205/583—Means for facilitating use, e.g. by people with impaired vision by visual feedback
    • A61M2205/584—Means for facilitating use, e.g. by people with impaired vision by visual feedback having a color code
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    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/60—General characteristics of the apparatus with identification means
    • A61M2205/6027—Electric-conductive bridges closing detection circuits, with or without identifying elements, e.g. resistances, zener-diodes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
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    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
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    • A61M2205/6054—Magnetic identification systems
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
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    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/82—Internal energy supply devices
    • A61M2205/8206—Internal energy supply devices battery-operated

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Pulmonology (AREA)
  • Hematology (AREA)
  • Anesthesiology (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Primary Health Care (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Emergency Medicine (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • General Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Surgery (AREA)
  • Urology & Nephrology (AREA)
  • Measuring Volume Flow (AREA)

Abstract

Abstract The invention relates to a communicating, namely connected, gas distribution outlet comprising an outlet body, a gas flow rate control system, a fluidic oscillation flow meter, signal processing means and at least one telecommunications module electrically connected to the signal processing means and configured to wirelessly transmit one or more measurement signals coming from the signal processing means to at least one communications network, the said at least one communications module comprising at least one radio modem associated with at least one transmitting/receiving antenna. Use of a communicating gas distribution outlet according to the invention to distribute a gas within a hospital building, particularly oxygen, air or nitrous oxide (N 20). 'd )26 4 FIG25 2 21 x -s3 24 2

Description

The invention relates to a communicating, namely connected, gas distribution outlet comprising an outlet body, a gas flow rate control system, a fluidic oscillation flow meter, signal processing means and at least one telecommunications module electrically connected to the signal processing means and configured to wirelessly transmit one or more measurement signals coming from the signal processing means to at least one communications network, the said at least one communications module comprising at least one radio modem associated with at least one transmitting/receiving antenna. Use of a communicating gas distribution outlet according to the invention to distribute a gas within a hospital building, particularly oxygen, air or nitrous oxide (N2O).
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2018202754 19 Apr 2018
Figure AU2018202754A1_D0001
Figure AU2018202754A1_D0002
FIG.2
Figure AU2018202754A1_D0003
2018202754 19 Apr 2018
Connected gas distribution outlet with inbuilt flow meter
The invention relates to a connected or communicating gas distribution outlet, particularly for medical gas, designed to be fixed to a wall of a hospital building or similar, which outlet is equipped with a fluidic oscillation flow meter and with telecommunications means, and to the use thereof for distributing a gas within a hospital building, particularly oxygen, air or nitrous oxide (N2O).
In a hospital or similar, respiratory gases which are administered to the patients are conveyed into the treatment rooms, wards or the like via a network of gas pipes passing through the hospital building.
Connections between the network of gas pipes and the patient are provided by virtue of several components, notably one or more flexible tubes, a patent interface, such as a face mask, nasal cannulae or a tracheal tube for example, possibly a respiratory assistance apparatus or the like and connectors referred to as “outlets” or “end fittings” for the coupling and distribution of medical fluids, as described for example in FR-A-2899950, US-A3532101 or EP-A-2306060.
The fluid distribution outlets are usually fixed to the walls or partitions of hospital buildings and are designed to fluidically connect the network of gas pipes to a flexible line supplying the patent with respiratory gas, the said line being equipped at its connection end with an attachment end fitting that complements the outlet.
Such a fluid distribution outlet typically incorporates a gas passage equipped with a valve, which is kept closed if a line or other apparatus is not connected to the fluid distribution outlet, and a filter used to purify the gas intended for the patient by ridding it of any impurities, notably dust, microorganisms, etc. that it might contain.
In general, a flow rate selector or litre meter is fixed downstream of this wall outlet with respect to the patient so as to control the flow rate of gas sent to the patient. The litre meter is used to adjust the flow rate and possibly the pressure of the fluid, i.e. of the gas, and displays the selected flow rate value.
The flow rate selector or litre meter may be of the type with calibrated orifices and an inbuilt pressure reducer, such as the Selectaflo™ device by Air Liquide Medical Systems, or of the ball type.
2018202754 19 Apr 2018
Now, the exact value of the flow rate delivered to the patient is not precisely known. This is because previously described flow rate selectors or litre meters give an approximate value of the flow rate, with a precision:
- of ± 30% of the read value up to 1.5 L/min and of ± 20% of the read value beyond 1.5 L/min, for a litre meter with inbuilt regulator, and
- of +/- 10% of the read value or +/- 0.5 L/min (highest value at 23°C) for the balltype litre meter.
Furthermore, a flow rate selector contains no electronics and therefore does not remotely communicate the flow rate value or values selected by the care personnel.
The problem that arises in this context is that of being able to monitor remotely and as precisely as possible, and preferably permanently, the flow rate of gas distributed by one or more fluid distribution outlets, particularly one or more wall outlets with which a hospital building or similar is equipped so as to be able to determine the quantity of gas delivered to one or more patients cared for within the said hospital building. For preference, the monitoring of the flow rate needs to be able to be performed over a long period of time, for example several years, and without the need for excessively frequent maintenance operations.
The invention therefore relates to a communicating, i.e. connected, gas distribution outlet comprising:
- an outlet body through which there passes at least one internal gas passage, for example a gas line, allowing a gas to pass through the said outlet body,
- a gas flow rate control system arranged on the internal gas passage of the outlet body,
- a fluidic oscillation flow meter arranged on the internal gas passage and configured to supply at least one measurement signal to signal processing means, namely a signal processing device,
- signal processing means configured to pick up and process the measurement signal or signals delivered by the fluidic oscillation flow meter, and
- at least one telecommunications module comprising at least one radio modem associated with at least one transmitting/receiving antenna, configured to wirelessly transmit one or more measurement signals coming from the signal processing means.
The invention also relates to communicating gas distribution outlet comprising:
- an outlet body through which there passes at least one internal gas passage allowing a gas to pass through the said outlet body,
2018202754 19 Apr 2018
- a gas flow rate control system arranged on the internal gas passage of the outlet body,
- a fluidic oscillation flow meter arranged on the internal gas passage and configured to supply at least one measurement signal to signal processing means,
- signal processing means configured to pick up and process the measurement signal or signals delivered by the fluidic oscillation flow meter, and
- at least one telecommunications module comprising at least one radio modem associated with at least one transmitting/receiving antenna, configured to wirelessly transmit one or more measurement signals coming from the signal processing means.
Depending on the circumstances, the gas distribution outlet of the invention may have one or more of the following technical features:
- the internal gas passage comprises a free end forming a connection end piece for coupling a connector, for example a coupling connector with which a flexible tube used to convey gas is equipped.
- the internal gas passage comprises a gas inlet orifice and a gas outlet orifice.
- the gas flow rate control system comprises valve means allowing the gas to circulate in the internal gas passage of the outlet body in the direction of a gas outlet orifice borne by the free end forming the connection end piece, when a connector is coupled to the said free end forming a connection end piece.
- the fluidic oscillation flow meter is arranged in the outlet body.
- the signal processing means are electrically connected to the fluidic oscillation flow meter.
- the said at least one telecommunications module is electrically connected to the signal processing means and/or configured to wirelessly transmit one or more measurement signals coming from the signal processing means to at least one communications network.
- the valve means comprise a valve shutter and a valve seat.
- the said at least one telecommunications module is configured to communicate data using technology of the LoRa, Sigfox, LTE-M Cat 0, EC-GSM or NB-IoT type.
- it is configured, which means to say designed or suitable, for being fixed to or set into a support structure, for example a wall or partition.
- it further comprises an electric current source powering the signal processing means and/or the telecommunications module.
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- the signal processing means are configured to convert at least one frequency value delivered by the fluidic oscillation flow meter into at least one flow rate value.
- the signal processing means comprise an electronic board, also referred to as the onboard electronics.
- the telecommunications module is configured to wirelessly transmit at least one flow rate value coming from the signal processing means to at least one communications network.
- the valve means arranged on the internal gas passage of the outlet body comprise a valve shutter collaborating with a valve seat.
- it comprises a mobile shutoff element allowing at least part of the proximal face of the outlet body comprising the outlet orifice of the internal gas passage to be covered.
- the mobile shutoff element comprises a cap or valve shutter mounted on a hinge.
- an antenna is arranged on the mobile shutoff element.
- alternatively, an antenna is arranged on the proximal face of the outlet, on the inside or on the outside of the outlet body, or incorporated into the very structure of the outlet body.
- alternatively, an antenna is arranged on in an external portion of the outlet which is itself set into a support structure of the panel, wall or partition or similar type, preferably a support structure arranged (near-)vertically with respect to the floor.
- the signal processing means comprise at least a first telecommunications module.
- the signal processing means comprise at least a first radio modem, a first radio antenna and a first impedance-matching network.
- the signal processing means are configured to communicate data using technology of the LoRa, Sigfox, LTE-M Cat 0, EC-GSM or NB-IoT type.
- the first telecommunications module advantageously has a sensitivity less than or equal to -110 dBm and a coupling loss (MCL) value greater than or equal to 130 dB with the base station or stations of the communications network considered so as to be able to perform data transmissions over long distances, typically of 100 m to 30 km approximately, depending on the signal propagation environment considered, i.e. urban environment or open environment.
- the first radio modem is configured to perform at least a modulation of the spread spectrum type, preferably at least a modulation of LoRa type, possibly associated with an acess protocol of LoRaWAN type; or of the ultranarrow band type, prefereably at least a modulation of Sigfox type, possibly associated with a Sigfox access protocol.
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- alternatively, the first radio modem is configured to perform at least a modulation and a protocol or a stack of associated protocols on at least a network of EC-GSM, NB-IoT or LTE-M type.
- the first radio modem is configured to operate at a transmission data rate of between 100 bits per second, as in the case of a Sigfox network, and 1 megabit per second, as in the case of an LTE-M CatO network, namely in all or part of this transmission data rate range.
- the signal processing means comprise a second telecommunications module comprising a second radio modem, a second radio antenna and a second impedance-matching network configured to communicate data using a second technology of Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth or NFC type.
- the signal processing means comprise a first and a second telecommunications module and a single radio antenna common to the two telecommunications modules.
- alternatively, the signal processing means comprise a first and a second telecommunications module and a single radio antenna divided into two distinct sub-antennas each specific to one radio technology, and therefore each associated with one of the telecommunications modules.
- the signal processing means further comprise one or more electronic memories and/or analogue or digital means of conditioning the signals generated by the fluidic oscillation detection means of the fluidic oscillator flow meter, typically microphones and/or a real-time clock.
- the said at least one communications network comprises or is connected to a remote server or computer.
- it comprises a position sensor making it possible to determine the “open” or “closed” position of the mobile shutoff element.
- the position sensor is arranged at the front face of the outlet.
- the position sensor is a capacitive sensor or a REED contactor reacting to the proximity of a detection element, such as a metallic element or a magnet, arranged on the mobile shutoff element.
- the position sensor collaborates with the detection element borne by the shutter to determine the “open” or “closed” position of the said shutter.
- it comprises a user interface electrically connected to the signal processing means, namely an electronic board or the like.
- it comprises a user interface arranged on the front or proximal face of the outlet.
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- the user interface comprises a data display.
- the user interface comprises one or more indicators, notably indicating the operation and/or feeding back the status of the onboard electronics, such as light emitting diodes.
- the user interface comprises one or more buttons, keys or switches making it possible for example to switch on or off all or part of the onboard electronics or the user interface, to reset the integrated value of the instantaneous flow rate, to change the configuration of the outlet, to send data by radio, to pair with a third-party device through a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy radio link, or to perform any other function.
In general, the present invention proposes combining a flow rate measurement function with the gas distribution outlet function by incorporating within the said gas distribution outlet a fluidic oscillator flow meter, and remotely communicating the frequency data derived from the flow meter, once these frequency data have been processed to convert them into flow rate data, via a wireless telecommunications means for example by BLE, WiFi or any other remote transmission system.
In other words, the gas distribution outlet of the invention therefore comprises:
- an internal gas duct or passage, preferably made of metal, ending in a gas distribution and coupling end piece, the said internal gas passage comprising a valve shutter or any other shutoff system acting as a valve to open the internal gas passage when a suitable connector is inserted into the external end piece of the outlet and, conversely, to close the internal gas passage when this connector is removed.
- optionally one (or more) filter for eliminating all or some of the impurities present in the gas. For preference, the filter is interchangeable, notably after 1 or several years of operation, for example every 2 years.
- a fluidic oscillation flow meter arranged on the gas passage allowing the gas flow rate to be measured using two microphones placed in the path of the gas.
- for preference, the two microphones are separated from the stream of gas in a fluidtight manner.
- the fluidic oscillation flow meter measures a frequency of oscillation of the flow, and therefore indirectly measures gas flow rate for flow rates ranging from 0.5 to 15 sF/min, with a precision of 1% of full scale.
- data processing means, typically an electronic board, also referred to as “onboard electronics” allowing the frequency signals measured by the flow meter to be processed in
2018202754 19 Apr 2018 order to convert them into flow rate values and transmit these data, i.e. the flow rate values, by wireless telecommunication, for example to a remote computer or server.
- an energy source, such as one (or more) battery or cell or a power supply of mains type (e.g. 10 V/220 V).
- for preference, the energy source comprises one (or more) battery or cell.
- optionally, a shutoff element, such as a flap or a pivoting cap, serving to conceal the end fitting of the outlet.
- a telecommunications module with one (or more) modem and one (or more) antenna preferably arranged on the exterior face of the outlet and in contact with the ambient air. Thus, the antenna may be arranged on the outlet body or on the shutoff element, such as a pivoting flap.
- an outlet housing or body incorporating the above elements comprising an outlet and coupling end fitting compatible with the gas outlets or connectors used in the hospital, i.e. which have cutouts and diameters that differ according to the gas considered, notably oxygen, air or N2O. The outlet end fitting is arranged at the downstream end of the internal gas duct or passage via which the gas used exits.
- the two microphones of the fluidic oscillation flow meter are designed and arranged to measure a frequency of oscillation of gas vortices.
- the signal processing means are electrically connected to the microphones of the fluidic oscillation flow meter.
- the signal processing means electrically connected to the microphones are configured to deduce from the frequency of oscillation of gas vortices as measured by the said microphones, a gas flow rate of between around 0.5 and 15 sL/min (i.e., standard litres per minute).
- the electric current source comprises at least one cell or battery, designed to supply current for several months, preferably at least 1 year, advantageously at least 2 to 4 years, preferably more than 3 years, or even more than 4 years, this notably making it possible to reduce the frequency of maintenance (i.e. battery change) operations and/or also making it possible to install the outlet in awkward places, notably places with no electrical power supply nearby.
In general, the gas distribution outlet according to the invention allows the flow rate of gas distributed by the outlet, notably the gas consumed by the patient situated downstream, to be measured indirectly, and allows this flow rate information to be transmitted remotely
2018202754 19 Apr 2018 and wirelessly, for example to a remote server. It therefore combines the functions of valve, flow rate measurement and remote communication of data, and possibly the function of filtering gas.
The gas distribution outlet with fluidic oscillation flow meter according to the invention exhibits numerous advantages over an outlet including a conventional (i.e., nonoscillating) flow meter.
Thus, the outlet according to the invention with fluidic oscillation flow meter consumes markedly less electrical energy than an outlet with a hot-wire flow meter or a depression flow meter, namely up to 100 times less, making it possible, in addition to the energy savings made, for the outlet to be powered with electrical current from a cell or battery rather than from the electricity mains, thereby reducing the overall bulk of the outlet and increasing its compactness.
In addition, the fact that a cell or the like can be inserted into it to electrically power it means that the overall architecture of the installation can be simplified without penalty to its autonomy because battery or cell operation can be guaranteed for up to several years under these conditions.
An outlet according to the invention with a fluidic oscillation flow meter therefore performs markedly better than a conventional flow meter outlet.
The invention also relates to the use of a communicating gas distribution outlet according to the invention to distribute a gas within a hospital building, particularly oxygen, air or nitrous oxide (N2O).
Moreover, the invention also relates to a hospital building, for example a hospital, a clinic or similar, comprising at least one communicating gas distribution outlet according to the invention for distributing a gas within the said hospital building, particularly oxygen, air or nitrous oxide (N2O).
The communicating gas distribution outlet (or outlets) according to the invention are arranged on the network of gas pipes that run through the hospital building.
The invention will be better understood through the following detailed description, given by way of nonlimiting illustration, with reference to the attached figures among which:
- Figure 1 is a diagram outlining the principle of operation of a fluidic oscillation flow meter with which a gas distribution wall outlet according to the invention is equipped,
- Figure 2 is a three-dimensional diagram of the fluidic oscillation flow meter of Figure 1,
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- Figures 3 and 9 schematically depict a first embodiment of a gas distribution outlet in the “open” position according to the present invention, which incorporates a fluidic oscillation flow meter according to Figures 1 and 2,
- Figure 4 illustrates the gas distribution outlet of Figure 3 in the “closed” position,
- Figure 5 illustrates a second embodiment of the gas distribution outlet similar to that of Figure 3, in which an antenna is arranged on the proximal face of the downstream portion of the housing of the gas distribution outlet,
- Figure 6 illustrates a third embodiment of the gas distribution outlet similar to that of Figure 3, in which an antenna is arranged in the external portion of the outlet,
- Figure 7 illustrates a fourth embodiment of the gas distribution outlet similar to that of Figure 3, in which an antenna is arranged on the mobile shutoff element,
- Figure 8 schematically indicates the arrangement of a position sensor that senses the position of the mobile shutoff element on the outlet of Figure 3, and
- Figure 10 schematically indicates another embodiment of the gas distribution outlet of Figures 3 and 9 comprising a user interface.
Figure 1 is a diagram outlining the principle of operation of a fluidic oscillation flow meter 47 (viewed from above) for a fluid distribution outlet 31, particularly for medical gas, according to the invention, particularly for oxygen, nitrous oxide (N2O) or medical air.
More specifically, the fluidic oscillation flow meter 47 comprises a stabilization chamber 1 in which a flow stabilizing element 11 is arranged, this element here having a substantially triangular or near-triangular overall cross section and a front face, and an oscillation chamber 2 comprising a reflux element 21 here in the shape of a half-cylinder (i.e. of semicircular cross section), which is configured as an arc of a circle 22 to create an oscillating gas vortex. The vortex in fact oscillates between two zones Zl, Z2 schematically situated at the ends of the half-cylinder of the reflux element 21.
The reflux element 21 is sandwiched between two parallel walls 28, 29 delimiting the oscillation chamber 2 at the top and at the bottom respectively (Figure 2), namely forming the roof and the floor of the oscillation chamber 2.
A connecting duct 3 fluidically connects the stabilization chamber 1 to the oscillation chamber 2 so that gas entering the stabilization chamber 1 crosses it and is then fed into the oscillation chamber 2. The connecting duct 3 emerges therein opposite, which means to say facing, the reflux element 21 comprising a hollowed-out cavity of semicircular cross section, i.e. which is preferably semicircular, and this causes the flow to oscillate and vortices to form
2018202754 19 Apr 2018 in the two aforementioned zones Z1 and Z2. For example, the reflux element 21 may have a semicylindrical overall shape as in Figure 1, or a substantially or near-semicylindrical overall shape.
A plane of symmetry P divides the entire system, particularly the connecting duct 3, the stabilization chamber 1, the flow stabilizing element 11, the fluidic oscillation chamber 2 and the reflux element 21, into two parts which are equal and symmetrical about this plane of symmetry P.
The front face of the flow stabilizing element 11 contained in the stabilization chamber 1 is flat and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry P and therefore perpendicular to the axis of the connecting duct 3.
Such a configuration is described in the publication: Yves Le Guer; Jet confine, dispersions fluide-particules et melange chaotique [Confined jet, fluid/particles dispersions and chaotic mixture]; Engineering Sciences; Universite de Pau et des Pays de I’Adour; 2005, and in document WO-A-93/22627.
In order to ensure effective measurement of the variation in pressure of the gas, as a function of time, within the reflux chamber 2 in which the gas flow oscillates forming gas vortices in the zones Zl, Z2, the measurement sites, namely the measurement ports 24, 25 connected to microphones or to pressure sensors, preferably to microphones (not depicted), should be positioned in the roof (or in the floor) of the reflux chamber 2, namely approximately above the zones Zl, Z2 in which the vortices form, and above all symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry P of the flow meter while imperatively respecting between them a distance d (measured between the axes or centres of the measurement ports) of between around 0.5 and 15 mm (cf. Figure 1), preferably between around 0.5 and 10 mm, for example of the order of around 1 to 6 mm.
The two measurement ports 24, 25 preferably connected to microphones are situated preferentially on an axis perpendicular to the plane of symmetry P and preferentially in the zone Z3 indicated in dotted line in Figure 1. The positioning of the two measurement ports 24, 25, relative to one another and relative to other elements of the geometry of the flow meter system, plays an important part in the perception of the frequency of oscillation of the vortex pressure and, therefore, has an influence on the precision with which the flow rate can be calculated from the pressure values measured by the sensors connected to the two measurement ports 24, 25.
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The two measurement ports 24, 25 are preferably closed by a fluidtight membrane so as to ensure correct operation of the microphones. In fact, the pressure in the oscillation chamber 2 is transmitted to the microphones, via the two ports 24, 25 and across membranes which cover these two ports 24, 25. For preference, the membrane has a very fine thickness in the region of the sensors 24 and 25, typically of the order of about 50 to 500 pm; elsewhere, its thickness may be comprised between 1 and 2 mm or even more.
In fact, during operation, the flow of gas circulates in the direction of the arrows (=>) indicated in Figure 1. The flow of gas, for example of oxygen or of medical air, arrives via an inlet duct 4 and is fluidically connected to the first inlet port 12 of the stabilization chamber 1 and enters the said stabilization chamber 1 via this first inlet port 12.
Within the stabilization chamber 1, the flow is subjected to stabilization by the flow stabilizing element 11, which is of a cross section approximating to a triangular cross section with its base, which means to say its front face la, oriented to face the outlet of the inlet duct 4, and therefore facing the first inlet port 12. In fact, the cross section of the flow stabilizing element 11 is slightly concave as it draws ever closer to the inlet 13 of the pipe 3.
The gas flow therefore passes around the flow stabilizer element 11 by passing along passages 15 formed on each side of this element. The passages 15 are in fact delimited by the external surface of the flow stabilizing element 11 and by the internal peripheral wall 14 of the stabilization chamber 1. In other words, the flow stabilizing element 11 is spaced away from the peripheral wall 14 of the stabilization chamber 1 in such a way as to create passages 15 for the gas around the said flow stabilizing element 11.
The flow of gas then reemerges from the stabilization chamber 1 via the first outlet port 13 and is carried by the connecting pipe 3 which fluidically connects the first outlet port 13 of the stabilization chamber 1 to the second inlet port 23 of the oscillation chamber 2.
The first and second inlet ports 12, 23 and the first and second outlet ports 13, 26 are arranged symmetrically about the plane of symmetry P.
The gas then continues on its journey into the oscillation chamber 2 before reemerging therefrom via a gas discharge pipe 27 which is in fluidic communication with the second gas outlet port 26 of the oscillation chamber 2.
The inlet duct 4 and the gas discharge pipe 27 are in communication with the internal gas passage 33 of the housing 32 of the outlet 31.
From a field of velocities that is symmetrical in 2 dimensions, a vortex is created the location of which, i.e. the zones Z1 and Z2, will oscillate at a frequency proportional to the
2018202754 19 Apr 2018 value of the flow rate of the fluid circulating therein. By placing microphones or pressuremeasurement members/sensors outside the fluid pipe, namely above the zones Zl, Z2 at which the vortices form, the presence or absence of a depression of the gas can be measured.
The flow meter 47 incorporated into the gas distribution outlet 31 of the invention therefore makes it possible to determine, via a measurement of the frequency of oscillation of the gas vortices, the flow rate of gas circulating therein for flow rate values situated between around 0.5 and 15 L/min.
Signal processing means 49, also referred to as “onboard electronics”, “signal processing and control module” or “control means”, such as an electronic board with a processor, particularly with a microcontroller or microprocessor, running one or more algorithms, are electrically connected to the flow meter 47 of the gas distribution outlet 31, particularly to the pressure sensors or microphones so as to collect and exploit the pressure measurement signals by extracting the frequency of oscillation in order subsequently to deduce a gas flow rate therefrom.
The signal processing means 49 are also electrically connected to at least one telecommunications module, as detailed hereinafter, for transmitting the flow rate values determined from the measurements of frequency of oscillation of the gas, as explained hereinabove.
Figure 2 is a three-dimensional depiction of the flow meter 47 of Figure 1, showing the location of the measurement ports 24, 25 in the roof 28 of the reflux chamber 2. The flow meter 47 is arranged inside the outlet housing 32 of the outlet 31 of the invention, as explained hereinbelow.
Figures 3 and 9 schematically depict a first embodiment of a communicating gas distribution outlet 31 according to the present invention, namely an outlet which communicates information, incorporating a fluidic oscillation flow meter 47 according to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the gas distribution outlet 31 of Figure 3.
As detailed in Figure 9, the gas distribution outlet 31 comprises an outlet body 32, also referred to as an outlet housing or frame, including (at least) an internal gas passage 33 allowing a gas to pass through the said outlet body 32, in the direction from a distal face 34 to a proximal face 35 of the said outlet body 32.
The proximal face 35 constitutes a free end of the outlet body 32 and is designed and/or configured to form a connection end piece, also referred to as an outlet coupling, allowing fluidic coupling of an external connector, for example a connector with which a
2018202754 19 Apr 2018 flexible gas pipe is equipped, intended to fluidically connect the connection end piece of the gas distribution outlet 31 to a medical apparatus such as a medical ventilator that uses the gas distributed by the gas distribution outlet 31, or alternatively to a device of the litre meter type preferably incorporating a gas regulator.
As illustrated in Figure 3, the outlet body 32 may be set into a reservation 41 formed in a support structure 36, such as a housing or the like or may be fixed directly to a wall or similar, particularly a panel, partition wall or equipment panel installed within a hospital building, housing a network of gas pipes 37, for example oxygen, medical air and/or nitrous oxide pipes supplied from gas sources situated inside or outside the building, such as storage reservoirs, racks of gas cylinders, or an on-site gas production unit such as a PSA (= Pressure Swing Adsorption) unit that produces medical air by swings of pressure and adsorption, etc.
For example, the insetting or mounting of the outlet body 32 of the gas distribution outlet 31 into the support structure 36 of the hospital building, such as an outlet housing supported by a partition wall or the like, may be achieved by inserting the outlet body 32 directly into a complementary outlet reservation 41, such as a cavity, which outlet reservation 41 is formed in the support structure 36 itself or, indirectly, via a specific accommodating structure 42 arranged beforehand in the outlet reservation 41, which then accepts the outlet body 32, as illustrated in Figure 3.
As shown in Figure 3, the upstream portion 43 of the internal gas passage 33 of the gas distribution outlet 31 is fluidically coupled 30 to the network of gas pipes 37 of the hospital or similar.
Similarly, one or more electric power cables 39 electrically couple the gas distribution outlet 31 to an electric current source, namely advantageously at least one battery or cell guaranteeing operation for one or several years, preferably at least 2 years, more preferably still at least 3 years, typically at least 4 years.
However, according to another embodiment (not depicted), the outlet body 32 and the support structure 36, such as an outlet housing, may also be formed as a one-piece or nearone-piece structure, designed to be connected to the network of pipes 37 and to the electrical network 40 and to be fixed directly to a wall or the like.
The internal gas passage 33 of the outlet body 32 of the gas distribution outlet 31 comprises, at its “free end”, a downstream part or portion 44 opening onto the proximal face 35 of the housing and comprising a gas outlet orifice 33A opening onto the said proximal face 35. The free end of the outlet body 32 constitutes a connection end piece for coupling a
2018202754 19 Apr 2018 connector, for example the coupling connector situated at a free end of a gas pipe used to supply a medical apparatus. In other words, the connection end piece acts as a mechanical and fluidic connector allowing mechanical and fluidic coupling of an external connector.
Also provided is a gas flow rate control system 38 comprising valve means arranged on the internal gas passage 33 of the outlet body 32.
The valve means are of the one-way valve type and allow gas to circulate along the internal gas passage of the outlet body 32 in the direction of the connection end piece when the connector of a gas pipe is coupled to the said connection end piece. For preference, the valve means comprise a valve shutoff member, such as a mobile valve shutter or the like, capable of pivoting or translational movement, which is normally pushed back by an elastic element, such as a return spring, towards its closed position, thus preventing any gas from passing when a connector or similar is not coupled to the outlet 31. Conversely, the valve shutter member is pushed back into the open position to uncover the gas passage when a connector or similar is coupled to the outlet 31, such as a flexible tube or a medical apparatus.
The outlet 31 of the invention may also comprise one (or more) sealing elements, such as sealing rings or gaskets and/or one (or more) gas filtering elements, for example one (or more) filters or the like, allowing dust, microorganisms or other impurities liable to be carried by the gas to be eliminated.
In general, the gas connector associated with the apparatus for medical use (not depicted) or with the flexible tube that is fixed to the outlet 31, is of known type, for example may be a bayonet connector that can be plugged into the outlet 31 as described for example in document EP-A-2055341. This connector is preferably of standardized type, for example to French standard AFNOR NF-S 90-116.
For preference, the connection end piece borne by the upstream portion 44 of the outlet body 32 has, on the proximal face 35, a particular peripheral edge or profile which is configured to offer coupling to an external coupling or connection end piece of specific shape, depending on the type of gas distributed by the outlet 31, for example with a connector of a flexible tube associated with the apparatus for medical use or the like, for example apparatus which uses a determined gas for therapeutic purposes, a surgical instrument, or apparatuses of the same type, or alternatively technical hospital apparatus, namely diagnostic apparatus, apparatus for controlling medical apparatuses or for driving medical instruments or apparatuses.
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Furthermore, as already mentioned and detailed in Figure 9, the internal gas passage 33 comprises an intermediate part or portion 46 situated between the upstream portion 43 and the downstream portion 44, which comprises a fluidic oscillator flow meter 47, like that depicted in Figures 1 and 2, arranged in such a way as to be in fluidic communication with the internal gas passage 33. The geometry of the internal gas circuit of the fluidic oscillator flow meter 47 is preferably chosen so that the oscillations of the gas are triggered and sustained for gas flow rates ranging up to 100 L/min, when the gas in question is oxygen, medical air or mixtures thereof, at temperatures of between 0°C and 40°C, preferably of between 0°C and 30°C, for a gas pressure of between 4 and 10 bar gauge.
As is visible in Figure 9, the communicating gas distribution outlet 31 of the invention moreover comprises signal processing means 49, namely one (or more) electronic boards, also referred to as “onboard electronics”, comprising a processor 50, such as a microcontroller or microprocessor, and at least one communications module comprising at least one radio modem 51, possibly incorporated into the microprocessor 50, associated with at least one radio antenna 52 and possibly with an impedance-matching network 53, so as to allow the outlet 31 to communicate remotely.
Also provided is an electrical energy source 56, preferably a cell, a battery or an electrical and mechanical connector allowing the signal processing means 49, typically an electronic board, to be electrically connected to the electrical current network 40, as explained hereinabove, in such a way as to supply electrical power to the signal processing means 49 or other elements of the outlet such as the one or more means 48 of detecting fluidic oscillator of the fluidic oscillator flow meter 47, typically microphones.
For preference, the signal processing means 49, namely the onboard electronics or similar, comprise at least a first telecommunications module comprising a first radio modem 51, a first radio antenna 52 and a first impedance-matching network 53 configured to communicate data using a technology of the LoRa, Sigfox, LTE-M Cat 0, EC-GSM or NBIoT type.
In order to do this, the first telecommunications module advantageously has a sensitivity less than or equal to -110 dBm and a coupling loss (MCL) value greater than or equal to 130 dB with the base stations of the communications network considered so as to be able to transmit data over long distances, typically of 100 m to 30 km approximately, depending on the signal propagation environment considered, i.e. urban environment or open environment.
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Thus, the first radio modem 51 may be configured to perform at least modulation:
- of the spread spectrum type, preferably at least modulation of LoRa type, possibly associated with an access protocol of LoRaWAN type; or
- of the ultra-narrow band type, preferably at least modulation of Sigfox type, possibly associated with a Sigfox access protocol.
Alternatively, the first radio modem 51 may be configured to perform at least a modulation and a protocol or stack of associated protocols, on at least a network of EC-GSM, NB-IoT or LTE-M type.
For preference, the first radio modem 51 is configured to operate on a transmission data rate of between 100 bits per second, as in the case of a Sigfox network, and 1 megabit per second, as in the case of an LTE-M CatO network, namely in all or part of this transmission data rate range.
Moreover, the onboard electronics 49 may also comprise a second telecommunications module (not depicted) comprising a second radio modem, a second radio antenna and a second impedance-matching network configured to communicate data according to a second technology of Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth or NFC type. As a result, the first radio antenna 52 may be a single antenna common to the two telecommunications modules or, as the case may be, may be split into two distinct antennas each one specific to one radio technology and therefore each one associated with one of the telecommunications modules.
For preference, the onboard electronics 49 also comprise one or more electronic memories, analogue or digital means for conditioning the signals generated by the means 48 of detecting the fluidic oscillations of the fluidic oscillator flow meter 47, typically microphones, and a real-time clock.
Optionally, it may also comprise an on/off switch, an operation indicator, for example a light-emitting diode, and/or a port for the programming of the processor 50, typically a microcontroller.
In any event, the onboard electronics 49 quantify the fluidic oscillations and estimate the flow rate of gas passing through the gas circuit 33 from the frequency values transmitted by the fluidic oscillator flow meter 47.
The onboard electronics 49 may potentially store these flow rate estimates in memory, for example within a flash memory, and may especially transmit them wirelessly by radio, for example to a remote server, via the telecommunications module (or modules).
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The onboard electronics 49 may also store in memory some configuration information, for example information regarding the location within a building or an identifier identifying the medical apparatus connected to the outlet 31 of the invention, or identifying the personnel or patient using such medical apparatus, which information is transmitted by radio.
The gas distribution outlet 31 of the invention may also comprise a mobile shutoff element 55, for example a cap or valve shutter mounted on a hinge 45, allowing at least part of the proximal face 35 of the outlet body 32, and in particular the outlet orifice 33A of the internal gas passage 33, to be covered in order to prevent the ingress of dust or similar.
Advantageously, the antenna or antennas 52 and any associated impedance-matching networks 53 that they may have are chosen so that the “radio qualities” of the outlet 31 are at least better when the mobile shutoff element 55 is in the “open” position (cf. Figures 3 and 9) than when it is in the “closed” position (cf. Figure 4). What is meant by the “radio quality” is, for example, the antenna gain measured on the inbuilt outlet 31 and the omnidirectional nature of the radio radiation pattern in a plane or in space, as observed on the inbuilt outlet 31.
For preference, the outlet body 32 is made of a material that is permeable to radio waves, for example the material may be a plastics material, such as polycarbonate or similar.
Figure 4 is identical to Figure 9 except that it schematically indicates the gas distribution outlet 31 with the mobile shutoff element 55 in the “closed” position whereas in Figure 9 it is in the “open” position.
When it is in the “closed” position and closes off the gas outlet orifice 33A, the mobile shutoff element 55 prevents dust or the like from accumulating at the outlet end of the internal gas passage 33 that opens through the outlet orifice 3 3 A, thereby preventing this dust or the like from finding its way into the pipes or the like that are going to be coupled to the gas distribution outlet 31.
Figure 5 illustrates a second embodiment of the gas distribution outlet 31, in which one (or more) antenna 52 is arranged on the proximal face 35 of the outlet 31 whether this be on the inside or on the outside of the outlet body 32, or incorporated into the very structure of the outlet body 32. The antenna 52 is electrically connected to the onboard electronics 49, such as an electronic board or the like, by suitable connections 52A.
Figure 6 illustrates a third embodiment of the gas distribution outlet 31 in which one (or more) antenna 52 is arranged in an external portion 57 of the outlet 31 which is itself set into a support structure 36 of the partition wall or wall type. The external portion 57
2018202754 19 Apr 2018 corresponds to the end part of the outlet 31 emerging from the support structure 36 when the outlet 31 is inset therein, namely corresponds to the end part of the outlet 31 that projects out from the support structure 36 when the outlet 31 is pushed into this structure.
Figure 7 illustrates a fourth embodiment of the gas distribution outlet 31, in which one (or more) antenna 52 is arranged on the mobile shutoff element 55, namely on its surface or incorporated into the very body of the mobile shutoff element 55. The mobile shutoff element 55 is depicted here in the “open” position. Once again, the antenna 52 is electrically connected to the onboard electronics 49 via suitable connections 52A, such as one (or more) electrical cables or similar.
Figure 8 depicts a gas distribution outlet 31 according to the invention identical to that of Figure 9 except for the additional arrangement of an optional position sensor 58 on the outlet 31 making it possible to determine whether the mobile shutoff element 55 is in the “open” or “closed” position.
The position sensor 58 is arranged here in the region of the front face 35 of the outlet 31.
The position sensor 58 may for example be a capacitive sensor or a REED contactor reacting to the proximity of a detection element 59, such as a metallic element or a magnet, arranged on the mobile shutoff element 55. In other words, the position sensor 58 collaborates with a detection element 59 borne by the shutoff element 55 in order to determine the open or closed position of the said shutoff element 55.
The position sensor 58 is electrically connected to the onboard electronics 49 via suitable connections 5 8A, such as one (or more) electric cables or the like, in order to transmit to it a detection (or nondetection) signal from the detection element 59.
The use of such a position sensor 58 is advantageous because the switching on or, conversely, off, of the onboard electronics 49 may be governed by the detection of the “open” or “closed” position of the mobile shutoff element 55 by the position sensor 58. In addition, detection of the “closed” position of the mobile shutoff element 55 may also lead to the triggering of a power save mode in the onboard electronics 49, for example may trigger putting components temporarily on standby, or periodically bringing the components out of sleep mode less frequently than when the mobile shutoff element 55 is in the “open” position or alternatively, radio transmissions that are less frequent than when the mobile shutoff element 55 is in the “open” position.
2018202754 19 Apr 2018
Finally, Figure 10 schematically indicates an embodiment of the gas distribution outlet 31 according to the invention in which the outlet 31 is identical to that of Figures 3 and 9 except for the fact that it incorporates a user interface 60 arranged for example on the proximal face 35, which is in electrical connection 60A, via a cable (or cables) or similar, with the onboard electronics, namely the signal processing means 49.
This user interface 60 may for example comprise:
- a data display 61, for example a device of “e-paper” type, or a matrix or segmented alphanumeric display intended to display for example the instantaneous flow rate estimated by the fluidic oscillator 47, the value, integrated by the electronics 49 over a given period of time, of the instantaneous flow rate, icons indicating the operating status or configuration status of the outlet, etc. or other data or information, and/or
- one or more indicators 62 indicating the operation or feeding back the status of the electronics 49, for example light-emitting diodes, and/or
- one or more buttons, keys or switches 63 making it possible for example to switch on or off all or part of the electronics 49 or of the interface 60, to reset the integrated value of the instantaneous flow rate, to change the configuration of the outlet, to send data by radio, to pair with a third-party device through a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy radio link, or to perform any other function.
In general, the communicating gas distribution outlet 31 according to the present invention, which is equipped with a fluidic oscillation flow meter and with telecommunications means, is designed to be fixed onto or set into a supporting wall and is therefore particularly well suited to use for distributing one or more medical gases in a hospital building or similar, or even in a mobile emergency vehicle of the ambulance, emergency response service, etc. type.
The discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included in this specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters formed part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.
Where the terms comprise, comprises, comprised or comprising are used in this specification (including the claims) they are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components, but not precluding the presence of one or more other features, integers, steps or components, or group thereof.
2018202754 19 Apr 2018

Claims (20)

  1. The claims defining the invention are as follows:
    1. Communicating gas distribution outlet comprising:
    - an outlet body through which there passes at least one internal gas passage allowing a gas to pass through the said outlet body,
    - a gas flow rate control system arranged on the internal gas passage of the outlet body,
    - a fluidic oscillation flow meter arranged on the internal gas passage and configured to supply at least one measurement signal to signal processing means,
    - signal processing means configured to pick up and process the measurement signal or signals delivered by the fluidic oscillation flow meter, and
    - at least one telecommunications module comprising at least one radio modem associated with at least one transmitting/receiving antenna, configured to wirelessly transmit one or more measurement signals coming from the signal processing means.
  2. 2. Gas distribution outlet according to the claim 1, wherein:
    - the internal gas passage comprises a free end forming a connection end piece for coupling a connector,
    - the gas flow rate control system comprises valve means allowing the gas to circulate in the internal gas passage of the outlet body in the direction of a gas outlet orifice borne by the free end forming the connection end piece, when a connector is coupled to the said free end forming a connection end piece,
    - the fluidic oscillation flow meter is arranged in the outlet body,
    - the signal processing means are electrically connected to the fluidic oscillation flow meter, and/or
    - the said at least one telecommunications module is electrically connected to the signal processing means and/or configured to wirelessly transmit one or more measurement signals coming from the signal processing means to at least one communications network.
  3. 3. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the said at least one telecommunications module is configured to communicate data using technology of the LoRa, Sigfox, LTE-M Cat 0, EC-GSM or NB-IoT type.
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
  4. 4. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein it further comprises an electric current source powering the signal processing means and/or the telecommunications module.
  5. 5. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal processing means are configured to convert at least one frequency value delivered by the fluidic oscillation flow meter into at least one flow rate value.
  6. 6. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the telecommunications module is configured to wirelessly transmit at least one flow rate value coming from the signal processing means to at least one communications network.
  7. 7. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein it comprises a mobile shutoff element allowing at least part of the proximal face of the outlet body comprising the outlet orifice of the internal gas passage to be covered, an antenna being arranged on the mobile shutoff element.
  8. 8. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein it comprises a user interface electrically connected to the signal processing means.
  9. 9. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a first telecommunications module has a sensitivity less than or equal to -110 dBm and a coupling loss (MCL) value greater than or equal to 130 dB.
  10. 10. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluidic oscillation flow meter comprises two microphones.
  11. 11. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two microphones of the fluidic oscillation flow meter are designed and arranged to measure a frequency of oscillation of gas vortices.
  12. 12. Gas distribution outlet according to claim 11, wherein the signal processing means are electrically connected to the microphones of the fluidic oscillation flow meter.
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
  13. 13. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal processing means electrically connected to the microphones are configured to deduce from the frequency of oscillation of gas vortices as measured by the said microphones, a gas flow rate of between around 0.5 and 15 sL/min.
  14. 14. Gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric current source comprises at least one cell or battery.
  15. 15. Gas distribution outlet according to claim 14, providing electrical autonomy for at least 2 years.
  16. 16. Use of a communicating gas distribution outlet according to any one of the preceding claims to distribute a gas within a hospital building.
  17. 17. Use of a communicating gas distribution outlet according to claim 16, wherein the gas is oxygen, air or nitrous oxide (N2O).
  18. 18. Hospital building comprising at least one communicating gas distribution outlet according to any one of Claims 1 to 13 for distributing a gas within the said hospital building.
  19. 19. Hospital building comprising at least one communicating gas distribution outlet according to claim 18, wherein the gas is oxygen, air or nitrous oxide (N2O).
  20. 20. Hospital building comprising at least one communicating gas distribution outlet according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the said at least one gas distribution outlet is arranged on a network of gas pipes running through the hospital building.
    1/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
    FIG.2
    2/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
    A σι
    -μ
    FIG. 3
    3/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
    FIG. 4
    4/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
    FIG.5
    5/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018 ma —yj
    FIG. 6
    6/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
    FIG. 7
    7/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
    FIG. 8
    8/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
    FIG. 9
    9/9
    2018202754 19 Apr 2018
    FIG. 10
AU2018202754A 2017-04-19 2018-04-19 Connected gas distribution outlet with inbuilt flow meter Abandoned AU2018202754A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1753382 2017-04-19
FR1753382A FR3065509B1 (en) 2017-04-19 2017-04-19 GAS DISTRIBUTION CONNECTOR CONNECTED TO INTEGRATED INTEGRATED FLOW METER

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AU2018202754A1 true AU2018202754A1 (en) 2018-11-08

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EP (1) EP3391926B1 (en)
AU (1) AU2018202754A1 (en)
CA (1) CA3000681A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2760425T3 (en)
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PT (1) PT3391926T (en)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR3091922B1 (en) * 2019-01-17 2021-08-06 Air Liquide Fluidic oscillation flowmeter
FR3092911A1 (en) 2019-02-20 2020-08-21 L'Air Liquide Société Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude Energy-independent flow measurement device
CN109737312B (en) * 2019-02-22 2023-08-15 曾奇风 Micro-leakage device

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7920067B2 (en) * 2007-04-16 2011-04-05 American Air Liquide, Inc. Wireless medical gases management system
EP2852322A4 (en) * 2012-05-22 2016-06-15 Sparo Labs Spirometer system and methods of data analysis
US20140014187A1 (en) * 2012-07-04 2014-01-16 Barry W. Hunt Methods and apparatus for controlling fluid flow in medical facilities
FR3063433B1 (en) * 2017-03-03 2019-03-15 L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude MEDICAL TREATMENT APPARATUS WITH FLUIDIC OSCILLATION FLOWMETER AND LONG DISTANCE COMMUNICATION MODULE

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FR3065509B1 (en) 2019-04-12
EP3391926B1 (en) 2019-10-30
PT3391926T (en) 2019-12-09
FR3065509A1 (en) 2018-10-26
ES2760425T3 (en) 2020-05-14
CA3000681A1 (en) 2018-10-19
EP3391926A1 (en) 2018-10-24

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