Classifications

• • 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

Definitions

• the present invention relates to a method and a device adapted to determine a leak in a distribution system or a part thereof.
• Belgian patent BE09600615 discloses a method for monitoring a fluid flow. In the process according to this document, the following is carried out:
• this first measurement is greater than a chosen value, the first measurement is stored and a second measurement of the flow is taken at a second time,
• Such a method is suitable for monitoring the flow of liquid.
• the monitoring device does not include a buffer chamber capable of containing a variable amount of fluid. Such a device is therefore unable to determine a gas leak, because it is not possible to frequently determine zero or substantially zero gas flow rates. Indeed, in case of gas leakage, the detection of the leak must be fast, so that it is often impossible to wait for the measurement of two substantially identical flow rates at different times.
• the present invention provides a method for rapid detection of a gas leak in a distribution system or part thereof, which method is advantageously automatic.
• the invention relates to a method for determining a gas leak in a distribution system or a part thereof, and / or for verifying normal or abnormal operation in a dispensing system or part thereof. it, said system or portion being connected to a source or gas supply, wherein the flow of gas flowing from the gas source to the distribution system or part thereof is detected.
• Said method is characterized by associating the distribution system or a part thereof, in particular one or more peripherals mounted on the distribution system capable of consuming gas, with a dynamic device or battery comprising at least one buffer chamber and> a control means adapted to interrupt the supply of gas into the device when a quantity of gas greater than or equal to a first predetermined quantity fills the buffer chamber, and in that one determines the flow rate of gas from the supply or absence of such a flow at least when the control means interrupts the supply of gas to the device.
• the device with its buffer chamber or chambers is a kind of dynamic battery adapted to artificially cause gas flow variations brought to the device, while ensuring normal consumption of gas in one or more devices.
• This dynamic battery is charged with gas and discharges into gas successively during the consumption of gas in one or more peripherals mounted downstream of the dynamic battery.
• the latter commands the stop of the valve 6.
• the valve 6 is in the open position as soon as the quantity of gas present in the battery is less than a predetermined quantity.
• This battery is recharged quickly thanks to the significant excess of gas pressure in the upstream pipe, compared to the specific need of each device or consumer devices.
• a meter or flow detector mounted upstream of the device will be able to determine the presence of a leak located between the meter or detector and the device or dynamic battery .
• the meter or detector will determine either a constant flow for a short period of time, or a large flow rate variation for a short period of time, this short period of time being for example advantageously from 1 to 10 seconds .
• the main counter will detect one or more different recharges of batteries, which will have the effect of having variations in flow and therefore a non-constant flow during the recharge period.
• the method is a method in which in the absence of zero or substantially zero flow during a first determined period of time and / or in the case of non-zero flow during a second determined period of time, a leakage signal or potential leakage or abnormal consumption is emitted.
• the control means interrupts the supply of gas to the device, in case of absence of zero or substantially zero flow during a first fixed period of time and / or in case of non-zero flow during a second determined period of time and / or in the absence of a change in flow rate less than a given acceptable variation, advantageously a variation of less than 5% by volume, preferably less than 10% by volume, preferably less than 15% by volume during a third specified period of time, a potential leak or leakage signal or abnormal consumption is emitted, said signal being advantageously used to interrupt the supply of gas into at least a circuit portion located upstream of the dynamic device or battery and / or to interrupt a main gas supply of the distribution circuit.
• the gas interruption will, however, be advantageous by accepting a certain leakage tolerance, for example a leakage tolerance of 121 / h or less, preferably a leakage tolerance of 61 / h or less.
• the gas leakage signal or signals of a distribution system comprising several peripherals or of several peripheral or peripheral circuits of the same distribution system are determined, depending on the time.
• a signal is emitted for example to stop the main gas supply and / or to a control body of the installation.
• the evolution of the level of leaks can thus be followed, which will allow the gas managers to determine if an installation is still compliant from a leak point of view.
• the method is a method in which when a zero or substantially zero flow is determined during a first determined period of time (for example from 1 to 25 seconds), a signal of absence of leakage or of normal consumption is issued.
• a first determined period of time for example from 1 to 25 seconds
• control means interrupts the supply of gas to the device, in the case where a zero or substantially zero flow rate is determined during a first determined period of time and / or in the case where a variation of flow rate greater than a determined minimum flow variation, advantageously a variation of at least 5% by volume, preferably at least 10% by volume, in particular by at least 25% by volume, is determined during a third period of time .
• the means interrupting the supply of gas is controlled between at least a first position in which said control means allows the passage of gas from the gas supply to the device or battery to at least fill the buffer chamber, when the quantity of gas in the buffer chamber is less than or equal to a second predetermined quantity, and a second position for which said control means interrupts the supply of gas into the device, when the quantity of gas in the buffer chamber is greater than or equal to said first quantity determined.
• a buffer chamber is used capable of containing a quantity of gas corresponding to at least the amount of average gas used over a period of time corresponding to at least one time, preferably to at least twice the time required to fill, without gas consumption in said distribution system or part thereof downstream of the device, the buffer chamber of a quantity of gas equal to or greater than said first predetermined quantity.
• the time required to fill the buffer chamber is less than 30 seconds
• the buffer chamber is capable of containing a quantity of gas corresponding to at least 30 seconds of normal consumption, in particular at least 1 minute of normal consumption.
• the buffer chamber is therefore used to allow the interruption of gas flow to the device for periods of time, while ensuring normal consumption of gas via the distribution system.
• the flow interruption periods are separated from each other by a filling period of the buffer chamber.
• the buffer chamber may comprise several sub-buffer chambers.
• a buffer chamber of variable volume is used.
• the volume of the chamber can vary between a minimum volume and a maximum volume.
• a buffer chamber is used placed in parallel with a pipe associated with the distribution system or part thereof or peripherally, advantageously located downstream of the distribution system, in particular upstream of the device or part of it, for example in parallel with a pipe of the device.
• the buffer chamber is adapted to contain a quantity of gas corresponding to a consumption, advantageously a normal average consumption, for a determined period of time.
• the supply of gas is interrupted by the control device if for at least one moment during this period of time, a zero or substantially zero flow of gas to the device is not detected and / or if a constant flow rate is detected. during that period of time or part of that period.
• each peripheral or peripheral network comprising a separate buffer chamber
• buffers have different maximum volumes.
• the maximum capacity of a buffer chamber will be for example at least twice the capacity of another buffer chamber or at least equal to the sum of the maximum capacity of two other buffer chambers.
• the invention also relates to a device or dynamic battery capable of creating variations in gas flow rate useful for determining a gas leak in a distribution system or a part thereof, for example to one or more peripherals. or to determine a normal or abnormal operation of a distribution system or part thereof, said system or portion being connected to a source or supply of gas, said dynamic device or battery being adapted to be mounted downstream of a distribution system or part of such a system or be associated with one or more devices able to consume gas.
• the device or battery comprises a connection means adapted to form a connection with a means for detecting a flow or a non-flow of gas flowing from the gas source to said distribution system or part thereof, said detection means being associated with means capable of emitting a leak or potential leak or leakage signal.
• Said device or battery further comprises at least one buffer chamber adapted to receive gas from the distribution system or a part thereof and control means adapted to interrupt the supply of gas into the device or battery when a quantity of gas greater than or equal to a first predetermined quantity fills the buffer chamber, the detection means being adapted to determine the presence or absence of a flow of gas from the feed or the source which is fed to said device.
• connection between the dynamic device or battery and the means for detecting a flow rate or non-flow rate can be operated by a wave, for example by a radio wave, an electrical signal, etc.
• the device is associated with a flow detection means
• the means associated with the detection means adapted to emit a potential leak or leakage or abnormal consumption signal at least when the control means interrupts the supply of gas to the device, in the absence of zero flow, or substantially zero during a first determined period of time and / or in the case of a non-zero flow rate during a second determined period of time and / or in the case of a flow variation less than a given allowable variation, advantageously less than 5% by volume, preferably less than 10% by volume, preferably less than 15% by volume during a third determined period, and / or
• the means associated with the detection means is adapted to emit a non-leakage or normal consumption signal at least when the control means interrupts the supply of gas to the device, in the case where a zero or substantially zero flow rate is determined during a first fixed period of time and / or in the case of a flow variation greater than a minimum flow variation determined, advantageously at least 5% by volume, preferably at least 10% by volume, in particular at least 25% by volume is determined during a third period of time.
• control means is adapted to control the means interrupting the supply of gas between at least a first position allowing the passage of gas from the supply of gas or source to the device for at least filling the buffer chamber, when the quantity of gas in the buffer chamber is less than or equal to a second predetermined quantity, and a second position for which the supply of gas into the device is interrupted, when the quantity of gas in the buffer chamber is greater than or equal to said first quantity determined.
• control means comprises at least one sensor adapted to determine or estimate the quantity of gas present in the buffer chamber, and in that the control means is adapted to control the means interrupting the supply of gas between at least a first position allowing the passage of gas from the supply of gas or source to the device for at least filling the buffer chamber, when one or the sensor determines a quantity of gas in the buffer chamber less than a second determined quantity, and a second position for which the supply of gas into the device is interrupted, when one or the sensor determines a quantity of gas in the buffer chamber greater than or equal to said first determined quantity.
• the buffer chamber is adapted to contain a quantity of gas corresponding at least to the amount of average gas used via the distribution system or part thereof on a a period of time corresponding at least once, advantageously to at least twice the time required to fill, without consumption of gas in said distribution system or part thereof downstream of the device, a quantity of gas greater than or equal to the first quantity determined in the buffer chamber.
• the buffer chamber is a variable volume chamber.
• the device comprises a first sensor adapted to determine a position of the chamber corresponding to a volume less than a determined minimum volume and a second sensor adapted to determine a position of the chamber corresponding to a determined maximum volume.
• the buffer chamber is placed in parallel with a conduit adapted to connect the distribution system or part thereof to the source or gas supply.
• the buffer chamber is adapted to contain a quantity of gas corresponding to a consumption, advantageously a normal average consumption, during a determined period of time, for example during a period of less than 5 minutes, in particular less than 2 minutes, preferably less than 1 minute, for example from 5 seconds to about 1 minute, in particular less than 15 seconds. This ensures almost instantaneous control of the absence of leakage.
• At least one means acts on the buffer chamber to exert a force opposing the filling of the buffer chamber.
• the buffer chamber is associated with a valve controlling the filling of the buffer chamber, said valve being advantageously a non-return valve, and another valve controlling the discharge of gas out of the buffer chamber.
• the device comprises an enclosure in which moves a membrane defining a wall of the buffer chamber. The enclosure is thus divided into a first portion capable of defining at least partially a volume of the buffer chamber and a second portion in which the return means advantageously extends. The second part is associated with one or more means for controlling the gas pressure in this second part.
• One or more holes advantageously associated with one or more sealing means in the event of fire or temperature above a predetermined temperature, for example, intumescent beads, safety valves, etc.
• a secondary enclosure in communication with the second part by means of passages, advantageously associated with one or more shut-off means in the event of fire or temperature higher than a predetermined temperature, for example, intumescent beads, safety valves, etc. in which is placed a flexible and flexible membrane (advantageously substantially inelastic).
• the flexible and flexible membrane is made of flame-retardant and fire-resistant material, for example having a flame resistance F1, and is able to move in the secondary enclosure depending on the air or gas of the second part which has entered in the second speaker.
• the second enclosure has one or more holes, advantageously associated with one or more sealing means in case of fire or temperature above a predetermined temperature, for example, intumescent beads, safety valves, etc. to allow the passage of outside air into and out of the second enclosure, depending on the movement of the flexible and flexible fire-resistant membrane.
• Another object of the invention is a device or dynamic battery capable of creating variations in gas flow rate that is useful for determining a gas leak in a distribution system or a part thereof, for example towards one or more peripheral devices or to determine normal or abnormal operation of a distribution system or part thereof, said system or portion being connected to a source or supply of gas, said dynamic device or battery being adapted to be mounted downstream of a distribution system or part of such a system or be associated with one or more peripherals, the device or battery comprising less a buffer chamber, a means capable of interrupting the supply of gas into the device or battery when a quantity of gas greater than or equal to a first predetermined quantity fills the buffer chamber, and means ensuring a pressurization of the gas present in the buffer chamber, said means for pressurizing the gas in the buffer chamber being a system comprising at least one element selected from one or more compressors, means acting on at least one movable wall of the buffer chamber, and a combination of them.
• the buffer chamber of this device or dynamic battery has a variable volume between a minimum volume and a maximum volume, while a mechanical means acts at least on a mobile wall
• the mechanical means is for example one or more springs (with the same elasticity or the same return force or different return force), or a part cooperating with a spring (for example a plate or a plate integral with the membrane on which acts a spring, possibly with interposition of an intermediate piece, such as for example a lever arm, a cam, etc.).
• the buffer chamber comprises at least one movable wall on which acts at least one gravity force of a piece adapted to ensure a decrease in the variable volume of the buffer chamber.
• the buffer chamber comprises at least one movable wall and at least one gas supply not coming from the gas distribution system filling the buffer chamber or a supply of liquid adapted to ensure a decrease in the variable volume of the buffer chamber.
• the gas that does not come from the distribution system can advantageously be a feed that can be connected to a source of compressed air or to an air compressor or to a source of a liquid, for example coming from a chamber in which moves a piston.
• the buffer chamber comprises a movable wall, said movable wall having a face facing the buffer chamber and an opposite face facing a control chamber, while the device or battery comprises a means pressurizing the control chamber.
• the pressurizing means of the control chamber is a means for bringing a liquid or a gas into the control chamber.
• the device comprises at least one system with at least one spring or another return element acting directly or with interposition on a movable wall of the buffer chamber.
• the device comprises at least one compressor for bringing gas into the buffer chamber in a compressed form with respect to the gas flowing in the device or battery.
• the device comprises: a movable wall for the buffer chamber and at least one means for bringing gas into the buffer chamber in a compressed form with respect to the pressure of the gas flowing at through the device, and / or - an expander for controlling the pressure exiting the device or battery.
• the device comprises an enclosure in which a membrane defining a wall of the chamber moves buffer.
• the enclosure is thus divided into a first portion capable of defining at least partially a volume of the buffer chamber and a second portion in which the return means advantageously extends.
• the second part is associated with one or more means for controlling the gas pressure in this second part.
• a secondary enclosure in communication with the second part by means of passages, advantageously associated with one or more shut-off means in the event of fire or temperature higher than a predetermined temperature, for example, intumescent beads, safety valves, etc. in which is placed a flexible and flexible membrane (advantageously substantially inelastic).
• the flexible and flexible membrane is made of flame-retardant and fire-resistant material, for example having a flame resistance F1, and is able to move in the secondary enclosure depending on the air or gas of the second part which has entered in the second speaker.
• the second enclosure has one or more holes, advantageously associated with one or more shutter means in case of fire or temperature higher than a predetermined temperature, for example, intumescent beads, safety valves, etc. to allow the passage of outside air into and out of the second enclosure, depending on the movement of the flexible and flexible fire-resistant membrane.
• a predetermined temperature for example, intumescent beads, safety valves, etc.
• the invention also relates to a gas distribution system with advantageously one or more peripherals, said system and / or one or more peripherals being associated with a dynamic device or battery according to the invention.
• the distribution system advantageously further comprises a flow detector or a meter capable of determining at least almost continuously flow rate variations.
• the subject of the invention is also a distribution system comprising a series of ducts each intended to supply gas to one or more devices able to consume gas, in which at least two ducts or two peripherals are each associated with a device or battery dynamic according to the invention.
• the invention also relates to the use of a device according to the invention in an existing installation, to find the presence or absence of leakage or to confirm normal or abnormal operation.
• a device according to the invention is mounted on the circuit or portion of the gas circuit to be controlled. After the check, the device is removed to test another circuit.
• a method according to the invention is advantageously employed.
• Another object of the invention is a device intended to consume gas, said device comprising a supply line associated with a dynamic device or battery according to the invention.
• FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a gas distribution installation provided with a device according to the invention, the buffer chamber having its minimum volume,
• FIG. 2 is a view of the installation of FIG. 1 with the buffer chamber having its maximum volume;
• FIG. 3 is a schematic view of another installation according to the invention.
• FIG. 4 is a schematic view of another gas distribution installation provided with a device according to the invention, the buffer chamber having its minimum volume
• FIG. 5 is a view of the installation of FIG. 4 with the buffer chamber having its maximum volume
• FIGS. 6 and 7 are schematic views of another dynamic battery
• FIGS. 8 to 12 are still other views of dynamic batteries according to the invention.
• FIG. 13 is a view of a device similar to that of FIG. 4.
• the dispensing unit 1 comprises one or more lines 2 for supplying gas to various gas-consuming apparatuses or devices 10 such as water heaters, heaters, etc., these peripherals are advantageously adjacent and are close to the device. or dynamic battery 4.
• a distribution installation 3 for example to distribute gas in a house or apartment.
• a dynamic device or battery 4 capable of creating variations in gas flow rate that is useful for determining a gas leak in a distribution system or a part thereof is disposed upstream of the pipe 2 and the peripherals 10, but downstream of the pipe 3.
• the gas inlet 5 is provided with a manually operated shut-off valve 5 (for example, a valve for the use meter, for example with a device or system for constant flow detection), but also with automatic control.
• a shut-off valve 6 with automatic control or safety valve, said valve being advantageously also manually controlled, is in turn mounted upstream of the peripherals, for example at the end of the pipe 3.
• the shut-off valve comprises a housing of command 6A.
• the device or dynamic battery 4 mounted between the cut-off valve 5 and the peripherals 10, after the distribution circuit 3 comprises:
• a means for detecting or measuring the flow of gas flowing from the gas source to said distribution system 3 this means detecting or measuring a flow in the pipe 3 upstream of the automatic valve 6, a means 8 associated with said gas flow detection means 50 which is capable of emitting a potential leak or leakage signal in the absence of zero or substantially zero flow or of flow variations greater than a determined value during a period of time. first time period and / or in case of non-zero flow during a second determined period of time, a potential leakage or leakage signal,
• This means 8 is advantageously adapted to quickly determine significant constant rates for a certain period of time , so as to quickly detect significant gas losses.
• a means 9 such as electrical wires, for transferring a leakage signal for controlling the valve 5 so as to bring the latter into the closed position in case of leakage and possibly (but advantageously the valve 6 or intermediate valves (7 to the entrance of a branch line), and
• a buffer chamber 11 connected in parallel to a pipe 12 connecting the valve 6 to the distribution unit 1 and the peripherals.
• This buffer chamber 11 has a variable volume between a minimum volume shown in Figure 1, and a maximum volume shown in Figure 2.
• the buffer chamber is for example made by means of a balloon 13 adapted to inflate or deflate in an enclosure 14.
• the enclosure 14 advantageously comprises a portion 12A of the pipe 12 and advantageously comprises coupling or quick-mounting means for connecting it to the distribution unit and possibly to another portion of the pipe 12B or to the The end of the pipe 3.
• the chamber 14 comprises a sensor 15, 16 to determine the position of the balloon with its minimum volume and the position in its maximum volume.
• the chamber 14 includes one or more valves for the passage of gas out of the chamber when the balloon inflates and to the enclosure when the balloon deflates.
• This or these valves are advantageously provided with a locking system in the closed position as soon as the temperature around the valve reaches a temperature above a predetermined temperature, for example when a temperature above 100 ° C is determined.
• the valve is in the open position to allow the passage of air out of or into the enclosure, as long as the temperature outside the enclosure is below a predetermined temperature value, and is in closed position (advantageously automatically) as soon as the temperature outside the chamber exceeds the determined temperature value.
• the sensors 15 and 16 send signals to the control device 6A of the valve 6.
• the sensor 15 receives a pulse from the balloon corresponding to the deflated state of the balloon 13, the sensor sends a signal to the control device 6A for ensure the opening of valve 6 and allow the gas supply 3 to pass into the device 4 and into the distribution network or circuit 2.
• the gas entering the device 4 is used partially to fill the balloon 13.
• the balloon inflates to reach its maximum volume position.
• the sensor 16 sends a signal to the control device of the valve 6 to close it.
• the devices 10 are then supplied with gas by means of the gas present in the balloon 13.
• a means can be provided in the enclosure to return the balloon to its position of minimum volume.
• Such means may be a spring or a pressurized gas extending in the chamber from the balloon 13.
• the flow measurement means 50 determines a zero flow or flow variation over a period of time.
• the control unit 6A of the valve 6 is therefore adapted to send a signal to the measuring means 50 or to the means 8.
• the measuring means 50 determines that there is no leakage, whereas when the period of zero flow time is less than said determined period of time or if said minimum flow variation is not detected in a given period of time, the means 50 sends a leakage signal to the control device for controlling the closing of the valve 5, and possibly 7.
• a light signal or a radio signal is advantageously issued to indicate a leak or a potential leak.
• the flow measurement device 50 advantageously receives only information as to the closure or not of the valve 6 by the pipe 3 and the behavior of the gas of this pipe 3, it can be useful and advantageous in more systems. complex to provide the transmission of information between the control unit 6 A and the control box 8.
• the device 6 A determines the presence of a leak or a potential leak or consumption problem at the peripherals .
• the control means 6A then sends a control signal of the closure of the valve 6 and / or a closing signal to a control device of the valve 5 or the valve 7 (to stop the passage of gas in the installation 3 and optionally to stop the passage of gas in an Ibis distribution facility connected to the pipe 3 upstream of the valve 6 and the valve 7.
• a light signal or a radio signal is advantageously issued to signal a leak or a potential leak and / or a problem of consumption, such as a signal sent to a person in charge of the control of the installations, to the gas distributor, to the fire brigade, to the concierge of a building, to a service department. emergency, etc.
• a signal is emitted for example on the device having detected a leak and / or on the control box of the main valve and / or on the constant flow detector directly downstream of the main valve. the.
• the maximum volume of the buffer chamber or balloon is advantageously determined according to the average consumption of the apparatus 10. This maximum volume must not be too great to prevent that in case of leakage, too much volume of gas from the balloon may to escape and to ensure control at regular and close intervals of the presence or absence of a leak in the distribution network and / or consumption problems to one or more devices 10.
• This maximum volume is for example between 2 and 4 times the amount of average gas used for a predetermined period of time, for example between 30 seconds and 5 minutes.
• a short period is advantageous because it makes it possible to shorten the time between two successive checks.
• the valve 5 or 7 is advantageously a valve which in the rest position or not activated is in the closed position.
• the valve is thus kept in the open position, for example by an electromagnet.
• the electromagnet is no longer powered, so that the valve automatically returns to the closed position.
• a constant flow rate detection device 50 is advantageously mounted directly downstream of the main valve 5. This device makes it possible to detect leaks in the pipe 3. Indeed, when the valve 6 is in the closed position, normally no gas flow should be determined by the device 50. If a constant or continuous flow rate were to be determined, such flow would mean the presence of a leak.
• FIG. 3 is a schematic view of another installation comprising a series of peripherals 10 connected in parallel with line 3.
• Each peripheral is associated with a dynamic device or battery according to the invention comprising a buffer chamber 10 and adapted to load and unload in succession according to the gas consumption.
• the distribution unit 1 of FIG. 4 or 5 comprises one or more pipes 2 intended to supply gas to various devices or devices 10 consuming gas, such as water heaters, heating apparatus, etc., these peripherals are advantageously adjacent and are close to the device or dynamic battery 4.
• a distribution installation 3 for example to distribute gas in a house or apartment.
• a dynamic device or battery 4 able to create variations in gas flow rate that is useful for determining a gas leak in a distribution system or a part thereof is disposed upstream of the pipe 2 and the peripherals 10, but downstream of the pipe 3.
• the gas inlet G is provided with a manually operated shut-off valve 5 (for example a valve of the utilization meter, for example with a device or system for detecting a constant flow rate), but also with automatic control.
• a shut-off valve 6 with automatic control or safety valve, said valve being advantageously also manually controlled, is in turn mounted upstream of the peripherals, for example at the end of the pipe 3.
• the shut-off valve comprises a housing of command 6A.
• This means 8 is advantageously adapted to rapidly determine constant high flow rates for a certain period of time, so as to quickly detect significant gas losses.
• a means 9 such as electrical wires, for transferring a leakage signal for controlling the valve 5 so as to bring the latter into the closed position in case of leakage and possibly (but advantageously the valve 6 or intermediate valves (7 to the entrance of a branch line).
• the device comprises a buffer chamber 11 connected in parallel with a pipe 12 connecting the valve 6 to the distribution unit 1 and the peripherals.
• This buffer chamber 11 has a variable volume between a minimum volume shown in Figure 4, and a maximum volume shown in Figure 5.
• the buffer chamber 11 comprises a flexible membrane 13 impervious to gas.
• the membrane 13 is associated with a piece 13A of sufficient weight to generate a force tending to push down the membrane 13 (by the effect of gravity).
• the part 13 A carries a hollow body 13B adapted to receive a rod 14A bearing on a fixed wall 17.
• the rod 14A is able to move in the hollow body 13B during the upward or downward movement of the membrane 13
• the rod 14 A and the hollow body 13B form a guide member for a spring 18.
• the diaphragm 13 moves upwards against the weight of the plate 13A and the spring 18, whereas when the diaphragm is in position high position, the membrane is brought down by the force of the spring 18 and the force of gravity of the plate 13 A.
• the chamber 14 advantageously comprises a portion 12A of the pipe 12 and advantageously comprises coupling means or mounting fast to connect it to the distribution unit and possibly to another portion of the pipe 12B or the end of the pipe 3.
• the enclosure 14 comprises a sensor 15.16 for determine the position of the membrane with its minimum volume and the position in its maximum volume.
• the sensor 15 is for example integral with the rod 14A and is activated by a finger of the hollow body 13B when the membrane is in the low position, while in the high position, the finger of the hollow body 13B acts on the sensor 16.
• the sensors 15 and 16 send signals to the control device 6A of the valve 6.
• the sensor 15 receives a pulse from the finger of the hollow body 13A
• the sensor 15 sends a signal to the control device 6A to ensure the opening valve 6 and allow the gas supply 3 to pass into the device 4 and into the distribution network or circuit 2.
• the gas entering the device 4 is used partially to fill the buffer chamber 11 and move up the membrane 13. The membrane is thus moved upwards, until the volume of the buffer chamber 11 is maximum.
• the sensor 16 is activated by the finger of the hollow body 13 A and sends a signal to the control device 6A of the valve 6 to close it.
• the chamber 14 advantageously comprises one or more valves for the passage of gas out of the chamber when the balloon inflates and towards the chamber when the balloon deflates.
• This or these valves are advantageously provided with a locking system in the closed position as soon as the temperature around the valve reaches a temperature above a predetermined temperature, for example when a temperature above 100 ° C is determined.
• the valve is in the open position to allow the passage of air out of or into the enclosure, as long as the temperature outside the enclosure is below a predetermined temperature value, and is in the closed position (advantageously automatically) as soon as the temperature outside the chamber exceeds the determined temperature value.
• the devices 10 are then supplied with gas thanks to the gas present in the buffer chamber 11.
• the spring 18 acts on the plate 13B of the membrane.
• the spring is advantageously calibrated so that for its phase of extension (with respect to a compressed position) the force exerted by the spring or springs 18 is substantially constant or so that the pressure of the gas present in the buffer chamber is substantially constant, when the valve 6 is closed.
• the setting of the spring or the springs can either be predetermined at the factory or be adjustable according to one or the other parameter of the network, such as pressures, type of gas, etc.
• the weight of the plate 13 A can be modified, for example by adding flyweights, to increase the force of gravity on the membrane 13.
• the control unit 6A of the valve 6 is therefore adapted to send a signal to the measuring means 50 or to the means 8.
• the measuring means 50 determines that there is no leakage, whereas when the period of zero flow time is less than said determined period of time or if said minimum flow variation is not detected in a given period of time, the means 50 sends a leakage signal to the controller to control the closing of the valve 5, and possibly 7.
• a light signal or a radio signal is advantageously emitted to indicate a leak or a potential leak.
• the flow measurement device 50 advantageously receives only information as to the closure or not of the valve 6 by the pipe 3 and the behavior of the gas of this pipe 3, it can be useful and advantageous in more systems. complex to provide the transmission of information between the control unit 6 A and the control box 8.
• the device 6 A determines the presence of a leak or a potential leak or problem consumption at the device level.
• the control means 6 A then sends a control signal of the closing of the valve 6 and / or a closing signal to a control device of the valve 5 or the valve 7 to stop the passage of gas in the installation 3 and optionally to stop the passage of gas in an Ibis distribution facility connected to the pipe 3 upstream of the valve 6 and the valve 7.
• a light signal or a radio signal is advantageously issued to signal a leak or a potential leak and / or a problem of consumption.
• Such a signal is for example sent to a person in charge of the control of the installations, to the gas distributor, to the fire brigade, to the concierge of a building, to an emergency service, etc.
• Such a signal is emitted for example on the device having detected a leak and / or on the control unit of the main valve and / or on the constant flow detector directly downstream of the main valve.
• the maximum volume of the buffer chamber is advantageously determined according to the average consumption of the apparatus 10. This maximum volume must not be too great to prevent that in the event of a leak, too large a volume of gas coming from the buffer chamber can to escape and to ensure control at regular and close intervals of the presence or absence of a leak in the distribution network and / or consumption problems to one or more devices 10.
• This maximum volume is for example between 2 and 4 times the amount of average gas used for a given period of time, for example included between 30 seconds and 5 minutes.
• a short period is advantageous because it makes it possible to shorten the time between two successive checks.
• the valve 5 or 7 is advantageously a valve which in the rest position or not activated is in the closed position.
• the valve is thus kept in the open position, for example by an electromagnet.
• the electromagnet is no longer powered, so that the valve automatically returns to the closed position.
• a constant flow rate detection device 50 is advantageously mounted directly downstream of the main valve 5. This device makes it possible to detect leaks in the pipe 3. Indeed, when the valve 6 is in the closed position, normally no gas flow should be determined by the device 50. If a constant or continuous flow was to be determined, such a flow would mean the presence of a leak.
• the dynamic battery charges and discharges successively, depending on the gas consumption operated by one or more devices mounted downstream of the dynamic battery.
• the dynamic battery controls the closing of the valve 6.
• FIG. 12 is a schematic view of another installation comprising a series of peripherals 10 connected in parallel with line 3.
• Each peripheral is associated with a dynamic device or battery according to the invention comprising a buffer chamber 10 and adapted to load and unload in succession according to the gas consumption.
• FIGS 6 and 7 schematically show another dynamic battery according to the invention.
• This dynamic battery 4 comprises a bellows 20 to define a buffer chamber 11 of variable volume, the upper part of the bellows being associated with a body 21 of fixed weight or on which acts a return means or spring for returning the bellows to its compressed position.
• the setting of the return means for example spring or springs, can either be predetermined at the factory, or be adjustable depending on one or the other parameter of the network, such as pressures, type of gas, etc.
• the weight of the body 21 can be modified, for example by adding flyweights, to increase the force of gravity on the membrane 13.
• valve 6 electromagnetic or mechanical
• the gas is able to pass to the peripherals 10 and partially to the buffer chamber 11.
• the valve 6 When the buffer chamber is filled (for example when the body 21 acts on the sensor 16, the valve 6 is brought into the closed position, the gas of the buffer chamber 11 then emptying to feed the peripherals 10. When the body 21 comes to act on the sensor 15, the valve 6 is brought into the open position to restart the filling cycle of the buffer chamber 11.
• the buffer chamber 11 has a predetermined, non-variable volume.
• the buffer chamber 11 is associated with a compressor 25 for storing gas under higher pressure in the buffer chamber.
• the pressure of the gas in the buffer chamber can thus be equal to 1.5 to 10 times the pressure of the gas supplied to the device 4.
• part of the gas supplied to the device 4 is taken up by the compressor 25 to store it in the buffer tank 11.
• the valve 6 is in the open position.
• the pressure sensor or pressure switch 26 emits a signal for controlling the closing of the valve 6 and the stopping of the compressor 25.
• the gas present in the buffer chamber 11 is then flows to the peripherals via a pressure reducer 27.
• Figure 9 When the pressure of the buffer chamber 11 falls below a determined value, a signal is emitted to open the valve 6 and to reactivate the compressor. The filling cycle of the buffer volume can then begin again.
• the buffer chamber 11 is defined in an envelope 14.
• the envelope has a chamber 28 located outside the buffer chamber 11.
• the chamber 28 is filled with a liquid and is associated with a cylinder 29 in which moves a piston 30 whose displacement is for example controlled by an electric motor 31.
• valve 6 In the position of Figure 10, the valve 6 is in the open position. In this position, the motor 31 is in the neutral position (allowing a displacement of the piston 30 as the gas entering the buffer chamber 11) or in a position controlling a rearward movement of the piston 30 to draw liquid out of the chamber 28 towards the cylinder 29. The buffer chamber is then able to receive gas.
• a sensor When the piston has reached a predetermined position, a sensor sends a closing signal of the valve 6 and a signal to control the motor to move the piston 30 forward. The cylinder liquid is then pushed into the chamber 28 to drive out When the piston 30 reaches a determined position corresponding to a minimum volume of liquid in the cylinder, a sensor sends a signal to open the valve 6 and stop the engine or control of the engine to generate a rearward movement of the piston.
• the cycle can continue.
• the device of FIG. 13 is similar to that of FIG. 4, except that the enclosure 14 has one or more passages 50 towards a second enclosure 51 allowing an air passage with the outside via one or more holes, preferably via one or more flaps 52 or valves.
• a flame retardant membrane 53 in particular rendered fireproof by a coating, extends into the second enclosure 51.
• the air of the second chamber located under the fireproof membrane (flexible membrane, preferably non-elastic) 53 enters the chamber 14, while air enters the second chamber 51 through the valve or valves 52.
• Such a membrane thus provides fire safety.
• the passage or passages are advantageously provided with or associated with elements 56 (for example beads surrounding the edges of a hole) or intumescent layers or dilating products, able to close the holes 50.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Measuring Volume Flow (AREA)
• Examining Or Testing Airtightness (AREA)

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• 2006
  • 2006-02-22 US US12/280,334 patent/US20090223129A1/en not_active Abandoned
• 2007
  • 2007-02-22 JP JP2008555569A patent/JP2009527742A/ja not_active Withdrawn
  • 2007-02-22 CA CA002642463A patent/CA2642463A1/fr not_active Abandoned
  • 2007-02-22 WO PCT/BE2007/000018 patent/WO2007095699A2/fr active Application Filing
  • 2007-02-22 AU AU2007218988A patent/AU2007218988A1/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2007-02-22 EP EP07710570A patent/EP2002172A2/de not_active Withdrawn
  • 2007-02-22 RU RU2008137624/06A patent/RU2008137624A/ru not_active Application Discontinuation
  • 2007-02-22 MX MX2008010797A patent/MX2008010797A/es not_active Application Discontinuation

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