EP2141721B1 - Device for controlling a condensate-lifting pump - Google Patents

Device for controlling a condensate-lifting pump Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2141721B1
EP2141721B1 EP09164606A EP09164606A EP2141721B1 EP 2141721 B1 EP2141721 B1 EP 2141721B1 EP 09164606 A EP09164606 A EP 09164606A EP 09164606 A EP09164606 A EP 09164606A EP 2141721 B1 EP2141721 B1 EP 2141721B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
level
condensate
push
control device
actuating element
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Application number
EP09164606A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2141721A3 (en
EP2141721A2 (en
Inventor
Antoine Chauvin
Olivier Badia
Michel Mesrouze
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Sauermann Industrie SA
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Sauermann Industrie SA
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Publication of EP2141721A2 publication Critical patent/EP2141721A2/en
Publication of EP2141721A3 publication Critical patent/EP2141721A3/en
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Publication of EP2141721B1 publication Critical patent/EP2141721B1/en
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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H35/00—Switches operated by change of a physical condition
    • H01H35/18—Switches operated by change of liquid level or of liquid density, e.g. float switch
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
    • F24F13/00—Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
    • F24F13/22—Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate
    • F24F13/222—Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate for evacuating condensate

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the control, or control, of a condensate pump. More specifically, the invention relates to the detection of condensate levels in a tank, and the control of a pumping system according to these levels.
  • Such condensate pumps are particularly used in air conditioning systems, refrigeration systems, ventilation systems or heating systems.
  • the invention relates to a liquid level sensing device of this type, comprising a float for placement in a reservoir, capable of moving in accordance with the level of liquid in the reservoir, and a fluid element. actuation driven by this float.
  • a lift pump may be used in an air-conditioning system in which the liquid (or condensates) which results from the condensation of the water vapor present in the ambient air, which it is desired to regularly pump out, is pumped out. it is cooled and which is recovered in a tank. This allows, on the one hand, to avoid the overflow of this tank and, on the other hand, to limit the amount of stagnant water in the tank.
  • this actuating element can act on a monostable microswitch, having a push button.
  • Ma maximum level
  • the actuating element depresses or releases the pushbutton of the microswitch.
  • the microswitch then changes state and controls the start of a pump that pumps the liquid into the tank. The pump then generally delivers this liquid to a sewage pipe.
  • a monostable microswitch that is to say, can take a stable position, by default, for example the stopping of the pump, and an unstable position, when a force is applied on the push button, for example the actuation of the pump), except to accept a very low pumping delta, or to provide a particular assembly requiring two floats, as proposed in the document US 6254351 .
  • bistable microswitch One could of course use a bistable microswitch. However, these are more expensive, and it would then be necessary to provide a specific actuation to control the shutdown of the pump, when the minimum level is reached.
  • the invention particularly aims to provide a control device of a condensate pump that is safe, simple, reliable and / or cheap.
  • the invention aims to provide such a control device capable of detecting at least three distinct levels (minimum level, maximum level and security level).
  • the invention makes it possible to control the pump so that it remains in operation between the maximum level (the start of the pump having been engaged when this level has been reached) and the minimum level. Conversely, the pump, stopped when the minimum level has been reached, remains stopped until the maximum level is reached again. The detection of the alarm level is also ensured.
  • Said microswitches may in particular be monostable microswitches, said first position being a stable position and said second position being an unstable position.
  • Said actuating element may have stabilizing means cooperating with at least said first pushbutton to keep it in its unstable position as long as said condensate level drops and is above said predefined minimum level (Mi).
  • the push button remains depressed, although the level drops. There is therefore a decorrelation between the movement of the float and the actuating element, while the level of condensates drops.
  • the correlation between the displacement of the float and that of the actuating element is not permanent, but rather selective.
  • the stabilizing means may for example comprise a friction surface, ensuring that the actuating element remains in a substantially fixed transient position, while the condensate level drops.
  • the stabilizing means may alternatively or in combination comprise at least one magnet.
  • Said first and second microswitches may be mounted so that said actuating element is retained, when the device is in the active state, by said push buttons.
  • the safety action can be chosen from at least one of the following: the shutdown of the machine producing condensates, the generation of an alarm, audible and / or visual for example, the start-up of a second pump, this list is not limiting.
  • the actuating element can pivot about a pivot and comprise a first arm portion located on the same side of this pivot.
  • the first and second microswitches can define between their push buttons a gap, the first portion of the actuating element being housed in this gap.
  • the first and second push buttons can be arranged face-to-face.
  • the first and second microswitches may be identical or nearly identical.
  • the control device of a condensate pump can comprise two abutment elements spaced from each other and separated by a void space in which a second portion of the actuating element is located, these elements of stop being driven by the movement of the float and in turn driving the actuating element.
  • the invention further relates, in another of its aspects, an air conditioning or heating system comprising a liquid recovery tank, equipped with a control device of a condensate pump as defined above .
  • the figure 2 illustrates an exemplary liquid level detection device according to the invention comprising a first and a second microswitches, the latter having a second push button movable between a stable raised position and an unstable recessed position, wherein said pivoting arm presses more or less on the second push button when the liquid level in the tank varies, so that the second microswitch changes state when the liquid level reaches a level of safety, higher than the maximum level allowed.
  • the float rises and drives the pivoting arm which depresses or releases the second push button.
  • the second microswitch changes state and controls the activation of the security system.
  • the safety system may, for example, warn a person of the risk of tank overflow and / or shut off the cold water supply in the system heat exchanger. air conditioning and / or disconnect the power supply to the air conditioning system.
  • the risk of overflow of the liquid is thus considerably limited.
  • the same pivoting arm is used to press the first and second push buttons and change state the first and second microswitches. This has the advantage of limiting the number of parts of the device and therefore its cost and its size.
  • This particular arrangement has the advantage of further limiting the size of the device.
  • the push buttons of the microswitches are arranged face-to-face.
  • This particular arrangement has the advantage of further limiting the size of the device, as well as to balance the forces exerted on either side of the pivoting arm, thus reducing the force exerted on the float by the pivoting arm.
  • the first and second microswitches are identical or almost identical (they may, for example, be of different colors), which makes it possible to manage only one stock of microswitches for the manufacture of the device, simplify this manufacture by limiting the risk of assembly error (avoiding the inversion problems of the first and second microswitches) and a priori limit the cost of the device.
  • the detection device comprises two abutment members spaced apart from one another and separated by a void space in which a second portion of the pivoting arm is located, these abutment elements being driven. by the movement of the float and in turn causing the pivoting arm.
  • the two abutment elements spaced apart from each other make it possible to avoid, when the pump starts and the level of liquid in the reservoir decreases, that the movement of the float (which follows the liquid level) causes immediately the pivoting arm and thus the actuation of the first microswitch and the shutdown of the pump.
  • these two stop elements make it possible to avoid, when the pump stops and that the level of liquid in the tank increases, that the movement of the float immediately causes the setting run of the pump.
  • the mode of operation of these two stop members is described in detail and illustrated below.
  • the two stop members are fully effective if the swing arm is able to remain in a transient position when it is not driven by one of the stop members.
  • the pivoting arm is generally subjected to disturbing forces, in particular its own weight, which separate the pivoting arm from this transient position. It will be noted that in order to limit the influence of the weight of the pivoting arm, this arm is advantageously made of a light material.
  • the device comprises stabilizing means for stabilizing the pivoting arm in a transient position.
  • Said stabilizing means may have various forms and various modes of action.
  • the stabilizing means slow the movement of the pivoting arm by generating frictional forces.
  • these friction forces oppose said disturbing forces.
  • the stabilizing means comprise a material with a high coefficient of friction disposed between the pivoting arm and the pivot of this arm, so as to generate frictional forces between the arm and its pivot.
  • the stabilizing means generate anchoring forces that oppose said disturbing forces when the pivoting arm is in a transient position.
  • the stabilizing means comprise a magnet disposed at said transient position and the pivoting arm is magnetic or carries a magnet.
  • the detection device and the pumping system of the invention can be used in different installations and, in particular, in a control system. air conditioning or in a heating system such as a condensing boiler.
  • the invention also relates to a heating or air conditioning system comprising a liquid recovery tank, or condensate, equipped with a pumping system of the liquid according to the invention.
  • the space allocated to the pumping system is restricted for reasons of overall system size and / or for aesthetic reasons. It is therefore understandable to have a pumping system of small size (in particular by its vertical movement) as that of the invention.
  • the figure 1 represents an example of a pumping system 10 according to the invention.
  • This system 10 is placed inside a reservoir 20 and makes it possible to detect and pump the liquid recovered in the reservoir 20.
  • the liquid enters the reservoir 20 via an inlet orifice (not shown).
  • the horizontal reference direction is that of the level of liquid in the reservoir 20, shown in dotted lines on the figure 2 and identified by the letter N.
  • the float 102 is secured to a rod 104, guided vertically in translation by at least one guide element.
  • this guide member is a guide sleeve 106 outside the rod 104.
  • the guide member could also be a rail, or a slide.
  • the rod 104 carries two stop members spaced from each other in the vertical direction: a bottom stop member 107 and a top stop member 108. These abutment members 107, 108 define between them a void space, or interval 109.
  • the pivot arm 130 pivots around a cylindrical pivot 132. It has a general shape in "L" with a small branch 133 and a large branch 134 substantially perpendicular.
  • the small branch 133 is oriented rather vertically, the large branch 134 is therefore oriented rather horizontally.
  • the pivot 132 passes through the central part of the small branch 133.
  • the pivoting arm 130 has a first arm portion 135 located on the same side of the pivot 132, above it. This first arm portion 135 belongs to the small arm 133.
  • the pivot arm 130 also has a second arm portion 136 located between the abutment elements 107 and 108, in the gap 109. This second arm portion 136 corresponds to the end portion of the large branch 134.
  • the small branch 133 is made of a material with a high coefficient of friction, for example of rubber, so that friction forces appear when the pivoting arm 130 moves relative to the pivot 132, which slows down the movement of the pivoting arm 130 and makes it possible to stabilize it in a transient position when it is not driven by one of the abutment elements 107 or 108.
  • the small branch 133 of the pivoting arm 130 thus forms stabilization means in the sense of the invention, since it is made of a material with a high coefficient of friction.
  • the first and second microswitches 110, 120 are both mounted on a plate 101 formed integrally with said guide member (ie the guide sleeve 106). These microswitches 110, 120 are arranged so as to define between their push buttons 112, 122, a gap 111.
  • the first arm portion 135 is housed in this gap 111.
  • the push buttons 112, 122 of the first and second microswitches 110, 120 are arranged face-to-face, the first arm portion 135 being centered relative to these microswitches when in a substantially vertical position.
  • the push button 112 of the first microswitch 110 is located at the bottom left of the housing 113 of the microswitch 110, while the push button 122 of the second microswitch 120 is at the bottom right of the housing 123 of the microswitch 120.
  • the first and second microswitches 110 , 120 being, in the example, identical or quasi-identical, it is understood that it is the respective front and rear faces of the housings 113, 123 of the microswitches, which appear on the figure 2 .
  • the first arm portion 135 when the first arm portion 135 is oriented vertically, it is in contact with the two push buttons 112, 122.
  • the distance between the two push buttons 112, 122, when they are both in their raised position is smaller than the width of the first arm portion 135.
  • the first microswitch 110 is connected to the electric motor 13 and controls the starting of the motor 13, and therefore of the pump 12, when the first push button 112 goes into the depressed position. In addition, it controls the stopping of the motor 13, and therefore of the pump 12, when the first push button 112 goes into the raised position.
  • the second microswitch 120 controls the activation of the security system 30 when the second pushbutton 122 moves to the raised position.
  • the float 102 rises and the low stop element 107 pushes up the second portion 136 of the pivoting arm 130.
  • the force exerted by the stop element 107 is greater than the frictional forces. between the pivot arm 130 and its pivot 132, the arm 130 pivots.
  • the first portion 135 of the pivoting arm 130 then moves to the left (with reference to the figure 2 ) and presses the first push button 112 which sinks.
  • the first microswitch 110 changes state and controls the start of the motor 13 and the pump 12.
  • the first portion 135 of the pivoting arm 130 releases the pressure exerted on the second push button 122 which spontaneously rises towards its raised position under the effect of compression-biasing means housed in the housing 123, but it does not release enough push button 122 for the second microswitch 120 to change state.
  • the force exerted by the stop member 108 is greater than the frictional forces and the arm 130 rotates.
  • the first portion 135 of the pivoting arm 130 then moves to the right (with reference to the figure 2 ) and releases the first push button 112 which then spontaneously rises to its raised position under the effect of compression-biasing means housed in the housing 113.
  • the first microswitch 110 changes state and controls the stopping of motor 13 and pump 12.
  • the figure 3 represents an example of air conditioning system 1 according to the invention comprising a heat exchanger 2 inside which circulates a cold fluid (for example water) or refrigerant, used as heat sink of the exchanger 2, a fan 3 for putting the ambient air in motion to bring it into contact with the exchanger 2, and a main recovery tank 4 of liquid 6 disposed under the exchanger 2.
  • a cold fluid for example water
  • refrigerant used as heat sink of the exchanger 2
  • a fan 3 for putting the ambient air in motion to bring it into contact with the exchanger 2
  • a main recovery tank 4 of liquid 6 disposed under the exchanger 2.
  • the air conditioning system 1 is equipped with a pumping system 10 such as that of the figure 1 .
  • This pumping system 10 is placed in a reservoir 20 which communicates with the recovery tank 4 via a conduit 5.
  • the liquid 6 recovered in the main tank 4 passes into the tank 20 where it is pumped by the pump 12 and evacuated via an evacuation pipe 7.
  • the pumping system 10 could be placed directly in the recovery tank 4 which, in this case, would be considered as a reservoir within the meaning of the invention.
  • the security system 30 is a system for cutting off the power supply of the air conditioning system, which makes it possible to stop, in particular, the fan 3.
  • This safety system 30 is integrated with the air conditioning system 1
  • This security system 30 could be associated or replaced by other types of security systems and, in particular, by a light or sound warning system and / or a system for cutting off the fluid supply of the exchanger. 2.
  • FIGS. 4 to 8 illustrate in more detail the operation of the control device of a condensate lift pump according to the invention and as described above.
  • the pivoting arm or actuating element 130 presses the push buttons as illustrated, the second pushbutton 122 being in the depressed state unstable while the first push button 112 is raised and stable.
  • the device is in a state of rest (the pump being stopped).
  • the device remains in the active state.
  • Stabilization means constituted in this example by a friction surface or a material with a high coefficient of friction disposed on the actuating element 130 at the point of contact between the actuating element and the first and second push buttons 112 and 122, allow to retain the actuating element 130 in this active provisional state where the pump is actuated, the first push button 112 remains depressed.
  • the upper stop element 108 causes the actuating element 130 to pivot so as to return to a position illustrated in FIG. figure 7 in which the first push button 112 is in the raised position, while the second push button is in a depressed position.
  • the second microswitch In normal operation of the device and the pump, the second microswitch is not activated.
  • the condensate level N continues to increase in the tank.
  • the actuating element 130 pivotally driven by the low abutment member 107 reaches a pivot angle such that the second push button 122 goes into the raised position, whereas it had previously remained in the depressed position, which causes the triggering of a safety action, for example the stopping of the machine producing the condensates, the generation of a alarm and / or the start-up of a second pump.
  • the first pushbutton 112 remains in the unstable state (that is, sufficiently depressed), and the pump is thus running.
  • the stabilizing means may be constituted other than by a friction surface.
  • the actuating element 130 comprises a twisted flat stem, the end 151 of which is displaced via the element of the Figure 9B , having two stops 191 and 192 mounted on a rod 193 driven by a float 194.
  • microswitches 110 and 120 are placed perpendicular to those of the Figures 1 to 8 , horizontally.
  • microswitches 110 and 120 of another device shown in FIG. figure 10 whose actuating element 130 is mounted with play on a pivot 132 on which is mounted in force a stabilizing means constituted in this example by a friction surface or a high friction material disposed on the element d 130 actuation
  • FIG 12 another example of a float 102 that can be used in the device according to the invention, having a bean shape (not visible) in top view. It is able to pivot on itself without however jamming the actuating element.
  • an actuating element 130 comprising a bend, a rigid pivot 132 and a reduced friction surface.
  • the rod 104 can act directly on the push buttons, without the intermediary of a lever. If necessary, the float dimension can then be increased, to provide sufficient force to act on the push buttons.
  • the rod 4 may for example carry a sliding mobile ring, remaining stationary while the level drops, until the minimum level is reached. A stop mounted on the rod can then drive the ring, which ensures the stoppage of the pump.
  • the rod is adapted in itself to ensure the actuation of the pump in the desired manner, for example with a relief adapted to define cams, acting on the push buttons depending on the level (actuation distinct between the direction of the rise and the decrease of the level that can be ensured by a controlled rotation, via these cams, of the rod).

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  • Level Indicators Using A Float (AREA)
  • Control Of Positive-Displacement Pumps (AREA)
  • Control Of Non-Positive-Displacement Pumps (AREA)

Description

1. Domaine de l'invention1. Field of the invention

L'invention concerne la commande, ou le pilotage, d'une pompe de relevage de condensats. Plus précisément, l'invention concerne la détection de niveaux de condensats, dans un réservoir, et le contrôle d'un système de pompage en fonction de ces niveaux.The invention relates to the control, or control, of a condensate pump. More specifically, the invention relates to the detection of condensate levels in a tank, and the control of a pumping system according to these levels.

De telles pompes de relevage de condensats sont notamment mises en oeuvre dans des systèmes de climatisation, des systèmes de réfrigération, des systèmes de ventilation ou des systèmes de chauffage.Such condensate pumps are particularly used in air conditioning systems, refrigeration systems, ventilation systems or heating systems.

On connaît déjà plusieurs techniques de réalisation d'un dispositif de détection de niveaux de condensats et de pilotage de la pompe. Il est notamment connu de prévoir un flotteur, flottant dans un réservoir, et coopérant avec des moyens de détection et/ou d'actionnement, en fonction du niveau de condensats dans le réservoir.Several techniques are already known for producing a device for detecting condensate levels and controlling the pump. It is in particular known to provide a float, floating in a tank, and cooperating with detection and / or actuation means, depending on the level of condensates in the tank.

L'invention concerne, selon un aspect, un dispositif de détection de niveau de liquide de ce type, comprenant un flotteur destiné à être placé dans un réservoir, capable de se déplacer en suivant le niveau de liquide dans le réservoir, et un élément d'actionnement entraîné par ce flotteur.In one aspect, the invention relates to a liquid level sensing device of this type, comprising a float for placement in a reservoir, capable of moving in accordance with the level of liquid in the reservoir, and a fluid element. actuation driven by this float.

Une pompe de relevage peut, en particulier, être utilisé dans un système de climatisation dans lequel on souhaite évacuer régulièrement par pompage le liquide (ou condensats) qui résulte de la condensation de la vapeur d'eau présente dans l'air ambiant que l'on refroidit et qui est récupéré dans un réservoir. Ceci permet, d'une part, d'éviter le débordement de ce réservoir et, d'autre part, de limiter la quantité d'eau stagnante dans ce réservoir.In particular, a lift pump may be used in an air-conditioning system in which the liquid (or condensates) which results from the condensation of the water vapor present in the ambient air, which it is desired to regularly pump out, is pumped out. it is cooled and which is recovered in a tank. This allows, on the one hand, to avoid the overflow of this tank and, on the other hand, to limit the amount of stagnant water in the tank.

Ainsi, dans un système de climatisation comprenant un dispositif de détection du type précité, lorsque la hauteur de liquide augmente jusqu'au niveau maximum autorisé, le flotteur monte et entraîne l'élément d'actionnement. Selon une approche, cet élément d'actionnement peut agir sur un microrupteur monostable, présentant un bouton poussoir. Par exemple, lorsque le niveau atteint est un niveau maximum (Ma) à partir duquel il convient de mettre la pompe en fonction, on peut prévoir que l'élément d'actionnement enfonce ou relâche ce bouton poussoir du microrupteur. Le microrupteur change alors d'état et commande la mise en marche d'une pompe qui pompe le liquide dans le réservoir. La pompe refoule ensuite généralement ce liquide vers une tuyauterie d'eaux usées.Thus, in an air conditioning system comprising a detection device of the aforementioned type, when the liquid height increases to the maximum allowed level, the float rises and drives the actuating element. According to one approach, this actuating element can act on a monostable microswitch, having a push button. For example, when the level reached is a maximum level (Ma) from which it is appropriate to put the pump into function, it can be provided that the actuating element depresses or releases the pushbutton of the microswitch. The microswitch then changes state and controls the start of a pump that pumps the liquid into the tank. The pump then generally delivers this liquid to a sewage pipe.

Le problème de cette solution est que, dès que le niveau de liquide atteint un niveau légèrement inférieur au niveau maximum Ma, le bouton poussoir revient dans son état précédent, et arrête la pompe. Le réservoir ne se vide donc que très peu, et la pompe est très fréquemment activée et arrêtée, au voisinage du niveau maximum Ma (c'est-à-dire entre le niveau maximum et un niveau sensiblement inférieur).The problem with this solution is that as soon as the liquid level reaches a level slightly below the maximum level Ma, the push button returns to its previous state, and stops the pump. The reservoir therefore empties very little, and the pump is very frequently activated and stopped, in the vicinity of the maximum level Ma (that is to say between the maximum level and a substantially lower level).

Cette solution n'est bien sûr pas optimale, pour des raisons de sécurité, d'efficacité et de pérennité. De ce fait, des systèmes connus de commande de pompe de relevage distinguent, outre le niveau maximum Ma, un niveau minimum Mi. La pompe n'est arrêtée que lorsque ce niveau minimum Mi est atteint, ce qui permet de définir des cycles sensiblement réguliers (permettant la définition d'un delta de pompage, c'est-à-dire l'écart entre le niveau maximal et le niveau minimal, optimisé).This solution is of course not optimal, for reasons of safety, efficiency and durability. As a result, known pump control systems distinguish, in addition to the maximum level Ma, a minimum level Mi. The pump is stopped only when this minimum level Mi is reached, which makes it possible to define substantially regular cycles. (allowing the definition of a pumping delta, that is to say the difference between the maximum level and the minimum level, optimized).

Ceci ne peut donc pas être réalisé efficacement avec un microrupteur monostable (c'est-à-dire pouvant prendre une position stable, par défaut, par exemple l'arrêt de la pompe, et une position instable, lorsqu'une force est appliquée sur le bouton poussoir, par exemple l'actionnement de la pompe), sauf à accepter un delta de pompage très faible, ou à prévoir un montage particulier nécessitant deux flotteurs, comme proposé dans le document US-6254351 .This can not therefore be achieved effectively with a monostable microswitch (that is to say, can take a stable position, by default, for example the stopping of the pump, and an unstable position, when a force is applied on the push button, for example the actuation of the pump), except to accept a very low pumping delta, or to provide a particular assembly requiring two floats, as proposed in the document US 6254351 .

On connait également, du document US-6443005 , une pompe réagissant à la pression du liquide présent dans un réservoir, et mettant en oeuvre plusieurs microrupteurs. Cette technique n'est pas adaptée à la gestion des cycles de pompage d'une pompe de relevage de condensats.We also know, from the document US 6443005 , a pump responsive to the pressure of the liquid present in a tank, and employing a plurality of microswitches. This technique is not suitable for managing the pumping cycles of a condensate pump.

On pourrait bien sûr utiliser un microrupteur bistable. Cependant, ceux-ci sont plus onéreux, et il serait alors nécessaire de prévoir un actionnement spécifique pour commander l'arrêt de la pompe, lorsque le niveau minimum est atteint.One could of course use a bistable microswitch. However, these are more expensive, and it would then be necessary to provide a specific actuation to control the shutdown of the pump, when the minimum level is reached.

Dans les pompes de relevage de condensats, de nombreuses contraintes doivent être prises en compte. Elles doivent être peu coûteuses, simples à assembler et le cas échéant à régler, présenter un faible encombrement et nécessiter peu ou pas d'intervention ou d'entretien.In condensate pumps, many constraints must be taken into account. They must be inexpensive, simple to assemble and if necessary to adjust, have a small footprint and require little or no intervention or maintenance.

Par ailleurs, dans ce type d'installation, il peut arriver par exemple que la pompe soit bouchée ou hors d'usage, qu'une tuyauterie soit bouchée ou pincée, que le premier microrupteur soit hors d'usage, ou que l'afflux de liquide dans le réservoir soit anormalement élevé. Dans ce genre de situation, le liquide n'est plus pompé, ou pas assez rapidement, et la hauteur de liquide à l'intérieur du réservoir augmente au-delà du niveau maximum autorisé. Le liquide risque alors de déborder du réservoir.Moreover, in this type of installation, it may happen for example that the pump is clogged or out of use, that a pipe is clogged or pinched, that the first microswitch is out of use, or that the influx of liquid in the tank is abnormally high. In this type of situation, the liquid is no longer pumped, or not fast enough, and the liquid height inside the tank increases beyond the maximum allowed level. The liquid may then overflow the tank.

Une détection spécifique d'un niveau de sécurité, ou d'alarme, supérieur au niveau maximal, est donc généralement prévue.Specific detection of a security level, or alarm, higher than the maximum level, is therefore generally provided.

2. Objectifs de l'invention2. Objectives of the invention

L'invention a notamment pour but de proposer un dispositif de commande d'une pompe de relevage de condensats qui soit sûr, simple, fiable et/ou bon marché.The invention particularly aims to provide a control device of a condensate pump that is safe, simple, reliable and / or cheap.

En particulier, l'invention a pour but de proposer un tel dispositif de commande apte à détecter au moins trois niveaux distincts (niveau minimal, niveau maximal et niveau de sécurité).In particular, the invention aims to provide such a control device capable of detecting at least three distinct levels (minimum level, maximum level and security level).

3. Exposé de l'invention3. Presentation of the invention

L'invention a pour objet, selon un de ses aspects, un dispositif de commande d'une pompe de relevage de condensats, comprenant :

  • un flotteur destiné à être placé dans un réservoir, capable de se déplacer en suivant le niveau de condensats dans le réservoir,
  • un élément d'actionnement, appelé également bras pivotant, entraîné par le mouvement dudit flotteur.
The invention relates, in one of its aspects, to a control device of a condensate lift pump, comprising:
  • a float intended to be placed in a tank, capable of moving according to the level of condensates in the tank,
  • an actuating element, also called pivoting arm, driven by the movement of said float.

Selon l'invention, ledit élément d'actionnement est configuré et monté de façon à agir sélectivement sur un premier et un deuxième microrupteurs présentant respectivement un premier et un deuxième boutons poussoir mobiles entre deux positions, de façon à définir trois états distincts :

  • un état de repos, dans lequel ladite pompe est arrêtée, ledit premier bouton poussoir étant dans une première position assurant l'arrêt de ladite pompe et ledit deuxième bouton poussoir étant dans une deuxième position ;
  • un état actif, dans lequel ladite pompe fonctionne, ledit premier bouton poussoir étant dans une deuxième position assurant la mise en oeuvre de ladite pompe, et ledit deuxième bouton poussoir restant dans sa deuxième position ;
  • un état d'alarme, dans lequel une action de sécurité est déclenchée, ledit premier bouton poussoir restant dans sa deuxième position assurant la mise en oeuvre de ladite pompe et ledit deuxième bouton poussoir étant dans une première position assurant le déclenchement d'une action de sécurité,
    ledit élément d'actionnement étant configuré et monté de façon que ledit dispositif passe :
  • dudit état de repos audit état actif lorsque ledit niveau de condensats augmente et atteint un niveau maximal prédéfini (Ma) ;
  • dudit état actif audit état de repos lorsque ledit niveau de condensats baisse et atteint un niveau minimal prédéfini (Mi), inférieur audit niveau maximal (Ma) ;
  • dudit état actif audit état d'alarme lorsque ledit niveau de condensats atteint un niveau de sécurité (Ns) supérieur audit niveau maximal (Ma).
According to the invention, said actuating element is configured and mounted to act selectively on first and second microswitches respectively having a first and a second pushbutton movable between two positions, so as to define three distinct states:
  • a state of rest, in which said pump is stopped, said first push button being in a first position ensuring the stopping of said pump and said second push button being in a second position;
  • an active state, in which said pump operates, said first push button being in a second position ensuring the implementation of said pump, and said second push button remaining in its second position;
  • an alarm state, in which a safety action is triggered, said first push button remaining in its second position ensuring the implementation of said pump and said second push button being in a first position ensuring the triggering of an action of security,
    said actuating element being configured and mounted so that said device passes:
  • from said state of rest to said active state when said level of condensates increases and reaches a predefined maximum level (Ma);
  • from said active state to said quiescent state when said condensate level falls and reaches a predefined minimum level (Mi), less than said maximum level (Ma);
  • said active state to said alarm state when said condensate level reaches a security level (Ns) higher than said maximum level (Ma).

Ainsi, uniquement à l'aide de deux microrupteurs, l'invention permet de contrôler la pompe, de façon qu'elle reste en marche entre le niveau maximal (le démarrage de la pompe ayant été engagé lorsque ce niveau a été atteint) et le niveau minimal. Inversement, la pompe, arrêtée lorsque le niveau minimal a été atteint, reste arrêtée jusqu'à ce que le niveau maximal soit à nouveau atteint. La détection du niveau d'alarme est également assurée.Thus, only with the aid of two microswitches, the invention makes it possible to control the pump so that it remains in operation between the maximum level (the start of the pump having been engaged when this level has been reached) and the minimum level. Conversely, the pump, stopped when the minimum level has been reached, remains stopped until the maximum level is reached again. The detection of the alarm level is also ensured.

Lesdits microrupteurs peuvent en particulier être des microrupteurs monostables, ladite première position étant une position stable et ladite deuxième position étant une position instable.Said microswitches may in particular be monostable microswitches, said first position being a stable position and said second position being an unstable position.

Ledit élément d'actionnement peut présenter des moyens de stabilisation coopérant avec au moins ledit premier bouton poussoir pour le maintenir dans sa position instable tant que ledit niveau de condensats baisse et est supérieur audit niveau minimal prédéfini (Mi).Said actuating element may have stabilizing means cooperating with at least said first pushbutton to keep it in its unstable position as long as said condensate level drops and is above said predefined minimum level (Mi).

Ainsi, le bouton poussoir reste enfoncé, bien que le niveau baisse. Il y a donc une décorrélation entre le mouvement du flotteur et l'élément d'actionnement, pendant que le niveau de condensats baisse. En d'autres termes, la corrélation entre le déplacement du flotteur et celui de l'élément d'actionnement n'est pas permanente, mais au contraire sélective.Thus, the push button remains depressed, although the level drops. There is therefore a decorrelation between the movement of the float and the actuating element, while the level of condensates drops. In other words, the correlation between the displacement of the float and that of the actuating element is not permanent, but rather selective.

Les moyens de stabilisation peuvent par exemple comporter une surface de friction, assurant que l'élément d'actionnement reste dans une position transitoire sensiblement fixe, pendant que le niveau de condensats baisse.The stabilizing means may for example comprise a friction surface, ensuring that the actuating element remains in a substantially fixed transient position, while the condensate level drops.

Les moyens de stabilisation peuvent en variante ou en combinaison comporter au moins un aimant.The stabilizing means may alternatively or in combination comprise at least one magnet.

Lesdits premier et deuxième microrupteurs peuvent être montés de façon que ledit élément d'actionnement soit retenu, lorsque le dispositif est dans l'état actif, par lesdits boutons poussoirs.Said first and second microswitches may be mounted so that said actuating element is retained, when the device is in the active state, by said push buttons.

L'action de sécurité peut être choisie parmi au moins une des suivantes : l'arrêt de la machine produisant des condensats, la génération d'une alarme, sonore et/ou visuelle par exemple, la mise en marche d'une deuxième pompe, cette liste n'étant pas limitative.The safety action can be chosen from at least one of the following: the shutdown of the machine producing condensates, the generation of an alarm, audible and / or visual for example, the start-up of a second pump, this list is not limiting.

Selon un mode de réalisation particulier, l'élément d'actionnement peut pivoter autour d'un pivot et comprendre une première portion de bras située d'un même côté de ce pivot.According to a particular embodiment, the actuating element can pivot about a pivot and comprise a first arm portion located on the same side of this pivot.

Les premier et deuxième microrupteurs peuvent définir entre leurs boutons poussoirs un interstice, la première portion d'élément d'actionnement étant logée dans cet interstice.The first and second microswitches can define between their push buttons a gap, the first portion of the actuating element being housed in this gap.

Les premier et deuxième boutons poussoirs peuvent être disposés face-à-face.The first and second push buttons can be arranged face-to-face.

Les premier et deuxième microrupteurs peuvent être identiques ou quasi-identiques.The first and second microswitches may be identical or nearly identical.

Le dispositif de commande d'une pompe de relevage de condensats peut comprendre deux éléments de butée distants l'un de l'autre et séparés par un espace vide dans lequel se situe une deuxième portion de l'élément d'actionnement, ces éléments de butée étant entraînés par le mouvement du flotteur et entraînant à leur tour l'élément d'actionnement.The control device of a condensate pump can comprise two abutment elements spaced from each other and separated by a void space in which a second portion of the actuating element is located, these elements of stop being driven by the movement of the float and in turn driving the actuating element.

L'invention a encore pour objet, selon un autre de ses aspects, un système de climatisation ou de chauffage comprenant un réservoir de récupération de liquide, équipé d'un dispositif de commande d'une pompe de relevage de condensats tel que défini plus haut.The invention further relates, in another of its aspects, an air conditioning or heating system comprising a liquid recovery tank, equipped with a control device of a condensate pump as defined above .

4. Liste des figures4. List of figures

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui suit, de modes de réalisation particuliers de l'invention donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs. Cette description se réfère aux planches de dessins annexées sur lesquelles :

  • la figure 1 représente schématiquement un exemple de système de pompage selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue de détail du dispositif de détection du système de la figure 1;
  • la figure 3 représente schématiquement un exemple de système de climatisation comprenant le système de pompage de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue schématique du dispositif de commande de la pompe de relevage de condensats conforme à l'invention lorsque le flotteur est monté à un niveau N=N1 ;
  • la figure 5 est une vue schématique similaire à la figure 4, le flotteur ayant atteint un niveau N=Ma ;
  • la figure 6 est une vue schématique similaire aux figures 4 et 5, le flotteur étant redescendu à un niveau N=N2 ;
  • la figure 7 est une vue schématique similaire aux figures 4 à 6, le flotteur étant redescendu à un niveau N proche de Mi ;
  • la figure 8 est une vue schématique similaire aux figures 4 à 7, dans le cas où le niveau de sécurité Ns est atteint par le flotteur ;
  • la figure 9A est une vue schématique et partielle, en perspective, d'un autre exemple de dispositif de commande de la pompe de relevage de condensats selon l'invention, et la figure 9B une représentation du flotteur associé ;
  • la figure 10 est une vue schématique et partielle, en perspective d'un autre exemple de dispositif de commande de la pompe de relevage de condensats selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 11 est une vue schématique et partielle, en perspective d'un autre exemple de dispositif de commande de la pompe de relevage de condensats selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 12 est une vue schématique d'un autre exemple de flotteur, et
  • la figure 13 est une vue schématique d'un autre exemple de bras pivotant ou élément d'actionnement.
Other features and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following detailed description of particular embodiments of the invention given as non-limiting examples. This description refers to the attached drawing plates in which:
  • the figure 1 schematically represents an example of a pumping system according to the invention;
  • the figure 2 is a detailed view of the system detection device of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 3 schematically represents an example of an air conditioning system comprising the pumping system of the figure 1 ;
  • the figure 4 is a schematic view of the control device of the condensate lift pump according to the invention when the float is mounted at a level N = N1;
  • the figure 5 is a schematic view similar to the figure 4 the float having reached a level N = Ma;
  • the figure 6 is a schematic view similar to Figures 4 and 5 , the float having descended to a level N = N2;
  • the figure 7 is a schematic view similar to Figures 4 to 6 , the float having descended to a level N close to Mi;
  • the figure 8 is a schematic view similar to Figures 4 to 7 in the case where the safety level Ns is reached by the float;
  • the Figure 9A is a schematic and partial view, in perspective, of another example of a control device of the condensate lift pump according to the invention, and the Figure 9B a representation of the associated float;
  • the figure 10 is a schematic and partial view in perspective of another example of a control device of the condensate pump according to the invention;
  • the figure 11 is a schematic and partial view in perspective of another example of a control device of the condensate pump according to the invention;
  • the figure 12 is a schematic view of another example of a float, and
  • the figure 13 is a schematic view of another example of a pivoting arm or actuating element.

5. Description de modes de réalisation particuliers de l'invention5. Description of particular embodiments of the invention 5.1 caractéristiques principales du mode de réalisation de la figure 25.1 main features of the embodiment of Figure 2

La figure 2 illustre un exemple de dispositif de détection de niveau de liquide selon l'invention comprenant un premier et un deuxième microrupteurs, ce dernier ayant un deuxième bouton poussoir mobile entre une position relevée stable et une position enfoncée instable, dans lequel ledit bras pivotant appuie plus ou moins sur le deuxième bouton poussoir lorsque le niveau de liquide dans le réservoir varie, de sorte que le deuxième microrupteur change d'état lorsque le niveau de liquide atteint un niveau de sécurité, supérieur au niveau maximum autorisé.The figure 2 illustrates an exemplary liquid level detection device according to the invention comprising a first and a second microswitches, the latter having a second push button movable between a stable raised position and an unstable recessed position, wherein said pivoting arm presses more or less on the second push button when the liquid level in the tank varies, so that the second microswitch changes state when the liquid level reaches a level of safety, higher than the maximum level allowed.

Ce dispositif peut notamment être mis en oeuvre dans le système de pompage de liquide de la figure 3, comprenant:

  • une pompe capable de pomper un liquide dans un réservoir,
  • un système de sécurité,
  • un dispositif de détection du niveau de liquide dans ledit réservoir selon l'invention, et
    dans lequel :
  • le premier microrupteur commande la mise en marche de la pompe lorsque le niveau de liquide atteint un niveau maximum autorisé, et
  • le deuxième microrupteur commande l'activation du système de sécurité lorsque le niveau de liquide atteint un niveau de sécurité, supérieur au niveau maximum autorisé.
This device can in particular be implemented in the liquid pumping system of the figure 3 , comprising:
  • a pump capable of pumping a liquid into a reservoir,
  • a security system,
  • a device for detecting the level of liquid in said tank according to the invention, and
    in which :
  • the first microswitch controls the start-up of the pump when the liquid level reaches a maximum allowed level, and
  • the second microswitch controls the activation of the safety system when the liquid level reaches a safety level, higher than the maximum authorized level.

Ainsi, lorsque la hauteur de liquide augmente au-delà du niveau maximum autorisé, le flotteur monte et entraîne le bras pivotant qui enfonce ou relâche le deuxième bouton poussoir. Une fois le niveau de sécurité atteint, le deuxième microrupteur change d'état et commande l'activation du système de sécurité.Thus, when the liquid height increases beyond the maximum level allowed, the float rises and drives the pivoting arm which depresses or releases the second push button. Once the security level is reached, the second microswitch changes state and controls the activation of the security system.

Dans le cas d'une application à un système de climatisation, le système de sécurité peut, par exemple, prévenir une personne du risque de débordement du réservoir et/ou couper l'arrivée d'eau froide dans l'échangeur de chaleur du système de climatisation et/ou couper l'alimentation électrique du système de climatisation. Le risque de débordement du liquide est ainsi considérablement limité.In the case of application to an air conditioning system, the safety system may, for example, warn a person of the risk of tank overflow and / or shut off the cold water supply in the system heat exchanger. air conditioning and / or disconnect the power supply to the air conditioning system. The risk of overflow of the liquid is thus considerably limited.

En outre, le même bras pivotant est utilisé pour appuyer sur les premier et deuxième boutons poussoirs et faire changer d'état les premier et deuxième microrupteurs. Ceci a pour avantage de limiter le nombre de pièces du dispositif et donc son prix de revient et son encombrement.In addition, the same pivoting arm is used to press the first and second push buttons and change state the first and second microswitches. This has the advantage of limiting the number of parts of the device and therefore its cost and its size.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le dispositif est tel que:

  • le bras pivotant pivote autour d'un pivot et comprend une première portion de bras située d'un même côté de ce pivot,
  • les premier et deuxième microrupteurs sont disposés de manière à définir entre leurs boutons poussoirs un interstice, la première portion de bras étant logée dans cet interstice.
According to one embodiment, the device is such that:
  • the pivoting arm pivots about a pivot and comprises a first arm portion located on the same side of this pivot,
  • the first and second microswitches are arranged so as to define between their push buttons a gap, the first arm portion being housed in this interstice.

Cet agencement particulier a pour avantage de limiter encore l'encombrement du dispositif.This particular arrangement has the advantage of further limiting the size of the device.

Selon un mode de réalisation, les boutons poussoirs des microrupteurs sont disposés face-à-face.According to one embodiment, the push buttons of the microswitches are arranged face-to-face.

Cet agencement particulier a pour avantage de limiter encore l'encombrement du dispositif, ainsi que d'équilibrer les forces exercées de part et d'autre du bras pivotant, rendant ainsi moindre l'effort exercé sur le flotteur par le bras pivotant.This particular arrangement has the advantage of further limiting the size of the device, as well as to balance the forces exerted on either side of the pivoting arm, thus reducing the force exerted on the float by the pivoting arm.

Selon un mode de réalisation, les premier et deuxième microrupteurs sont identiques ou quasi-identiques (ils peuvent, par exemple, être de couleurs différentes), ce qui permet de ne gérer qu'un seul stock de microrupteurs pour la fabrication du dispositif, de simplifier cette fabrication en limitant les risques d'erreur de montage (en évitant les problèmes d'inversion des premier et deuxième microrupteurs) et de limiter a priori le prix de revient du dispositif.According to one embodiment, the first and second microswitches are identical or almost identical (they may, for example, be of different colors), which makes it possible to manage only one stock of microswitches for the manufacture of the device, simplify this manufacture by limiting the risk of assembly error (avoiding the inversion problems of the first and second microswitches) and a priori limit the cost of the device.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le système de pompage est tel que :

  • le premier microrupteur commande la mise en marche de la pompe, lorsque le premier bouton poussoir passe en position enfoncée et commande l'arrêt de la pompe lorsque le premier bouton poussoir passe en position relevée, et
  • le deuxième microrupteur commande l'activation du système de sécurité lorsque le deuxième bouton poussoir passe en position relevée.
According to one embodiment, the pumping system is such that:
  • the first microswitch controls the start-up of the pump, when the first push-button switches to the depressed position and controls the stopping of the pump when the first push-button switches to the raised position, and
  • the second microswitch controls the activation of the security system when the second push button goes to the raised position.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, le dispositif de détection comprend deux éléments de butée distants l'un de l'autre et séparés par un espace vide dans lequel se situe une deuxième portion du bras pivotant, ces éléments de butée étant entraînés par le mouvement du flotteur et entraînant à leur tour le bras pivotant.According to one embodiment of the invention, the detection device comprises two abutment members spaced apart from one another and separated by a void space in which a second portion of the pivoting arm is located, these abutment elements being driven. by the movement of the float and in turn causing the pivoting arm.

Les deux éléments de butée distants l'un de l'autre permettent d'éviter, lorsque la pompe se met en marche et que le niveau de liquide dans le réservoir diminue, que le mouvement du flotteur (qui suit le niveau de liquide) entraîne immédiatement le bras pivotant et donc l'actionnement du premier microrupteur et la mise à l'arrêt de la pompe. Inversement, ces deux éléments de butée permettent d'éviter, lorsque la pompe s'arrête et que le niveau de liquide dans le réservoir augmente, que le mouvement du flotteur entraîne immédiatement la mise en marche de la pompe. Le mode de fonctionnement de ces deux éléments de butée est décrit en détail et illustré plus loin.The two abutment elements spaced apart from each other make it possible to avoid, when the pump starts and the level of liquid in the reservoir decreases, that the movement of the float (which follows the liquid level) causes immediately the pivoting arm and thus the actuation of the first microswitch and the shutdown of the pump. Conversely, these two stop elements make it possible to avoid, when the pump stops and that the level of liquid in the tank increases, that the movement of the float immediately causes the setting run of the pump. The mode of operation of these two stop members is described in detail and illustrated below.

Les deux éléments de butée sont pleinement efficaces si le bras pivotant est capable de rester dans une position transitoire lorsqu'il n'est pas entraîné par un des éléments de butée. Or, le bras pivotant est généralement soumis à des forces perturbatrices, en particulier son propre poids, qui écartent le bras pivotant de cette position transitoire. On notera que pour limiter l'influence du poids du bras pivotant, ce bras est avantageusement réalisé en un matériau léger.The two stop members are fully effective if the swing arm is able to remain in a transient position when it is not driven by one of the stop members. Now, the pivoting arm is generally subjected to disturbing forces, in particular its own weight, which separate the pivoting arm from this transient position. It will be noted that in order to limit the influence of the weight of the pivoting arm, this arm is advantageously made of a light material.

Pour s'opposer à ces forces perturbatrices, selon un mode de réalisation, le dispositif comprend des moyens de stabilisation permettant de stabiliser le bras pivotant dans une position transitoire.To oppose these disturbing forces, according to one embodiment, the device comprises stabilizing means for stabilizing the pivoting arm in a transient position.

Lesdits moyens de stabilisation peuvent présenter diverses formes et divers modes d'action.Said stabilizing means may have various forms and various modes of action.

Selon un mode de réalisation, les moyens de stabilisation freinent le déplacement du bras pivotant en générant des forces de frottement. Lorsque le bras pivotant est dans une position transitoire, ces forces de frottement s'opposent auxdites forces perturbatrices. Par exemple, les moyens de stabilisation comprennent un matériau à fort coefficient de frottement disposé entre le bras pivotant et le pivot de ce bras, de manière à générer des forces de frottement entre le bras et son pivot.According to one embodiment, the stabilizing means slow the movement of the pivoting arm by generating frictional forces. When the pivoting arm is in a transient position, these friction forces oppose said disturbing forces. For example, the stabilizing means comprise a material with a high coefficient of friction disposed between the pivoting arm and the pivot of this arm, so as to generate frictional forces between the arm and its pivot.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation, les moyens de stabilisation génèrent des forces d'ancrage qui s'opposent auxdites forces perturbatrices lorsque le bras pivotant est dans une position transitoire. Par exemple, les moyens de stabilisation comprennent un aimant disposé au niveau de ladite position transitoire et le bras pivotant est magnétique ou porte un aimant.According to another embodiment, the stabilizing means generate anchoring forces that oppose said disturbing forces when the pivoting arm is in a transient position. For example, the stabilizing means comprise a magnet disposed at said transient position and the pivoting arm is magnetic or carries a magnet.

On notera que les forces de frottement ou les forces d'ancrage précitées doivent pouvoir être surmontées par les forces d'entraînement exercées par les éléments de butée sur le bras pivotant.It should be noted that the aforementioned frictional forces or anchoring forces must be overcome by the driving forces exerted by the stop members on the pivoting arm.

Le dispositif de détection et le système de pompage de l'invention peuvent être utilisés dans différentes installations et, notamment, dans un système de climatisation ou dans un système de chauffage comme une chaudière à condensation.The detection device and the pumping system of the invention can be used in different installations and, in particular, in a control system. air conditioning or in a heating system such as a condensing boiler.

L'invention a également pour objet un système de chauffage ou de climatisation comprenant un réservoir de récupération de liquide, ou condensat, équipé d'un système de pompage de ce liquide selon l'invention.The invention also relates to a heating or air conditioning system comprising a liquid recovery tank, or condensate, equipped with a pumping system of the liquid according to the invention.

Généralement, dans les systèmes de climatisation ou de chauffage, la place allouée au système de pompage est restreinte pour des raisons d'encombrement global du système et/ou pour des raisons esthétiques. On comprend donc l'intérêt d'avoir un système de pompage de faible encombrement (notamment de par son mouvement vertical) comme celui de l'invention.Generally, in the air conditioning or heating systems, the space allocated to the pumping system is restricted for reasons of overall system size and / or for aesthetic reasons. It is therefore understandable to have a pumping system of small size (in particular by its vertical movement) as that of the invention.

5.2 exemple de système de pompage5.2 example of a pumping system

La figure 1 représente un exemple de système de pompage 10 selon l'invention. Ce système 10 est placé à l'intérieur d'un réservoir 20 et permet de détecter et de pomper le liquide récupéré dans le réservoir 20. Le liquide entre dans le réservoir 20 via un orifice d'entrée (non représenté).The figure 1 represents an example of a pumping system 10 according to the invention. This system 10 is placed inside a reservoir 20 and makes it possible to detect and pump the liquid recovered in the reservoir 20. The liquid enters the reservoir 20 via an inlet orifice (not shown).

Le système 10 comprend :

  • une pompe hydraulique 12 (il s'agit dans cet exemple d'une pompe centrifuge) capable de pomper du liquide dans le réservoir 20 via un trou d'aspiration (non représenté), cette pompe étant entraînée par un moteur électrique 13,
  • un système de sécurité 30, et
  • un dispositif 100 de commande de la pompe, ou de détection de niveau de liquide dans le réservoir 20, représenté en détail sur la figure 2.
The system 10 comprises:
  • a hydraulic pump 12 (it is in this example a centrifugal pump) capable of pumping liquid into the reservoir 20 via a suction hole (not shown), this pump being driven by an electric motor 13,
  • a security system 30, and
  • a device 100 for controlling the pump, or for detecting the level of liquid in the reservoir 20, shown in detail on the figure 2 .

5.3 premier exemple de dispositif de commande5.3 first example of a control device

Le dispositif 100 comprend :

  • un flotteur 102 placé dans le réservoir 20 et capable de se déplacer de haut en bas et de bas en haut en suivant le niveau de liquide dans le réservoir 20,
  • un premier microrupteur 110 commandant la mise en marche/l'arrêt de la pompe 12, ce premier microrupteur ayant un premier bouton poussoir 112 mobile entre une position relevée stable et une position enfoncée instable,
  • un deuxième microrupteur 120 commandant l'activation du système de sécurité 30, ce deuxième microrupteur ayant un deuxième bouton poussoir 122 mobile entre une position relevée stable et une position enfoncée instable,
  • un bras pivotant 130 entraîné par le mouvement du flotteur 102, ce bras pivotant étant au contact des boutons poussoirs 112, 122, des premier et deuxième microrupteurs 110, 120, et exerçant sur eux une pression plus ou moins importante en fonction de la position du flotteur 102 et donc de la hauteur de liquide dans le réservoir 20.
The device 100 comprises:
  • a float 102 placed in the tank 20 and capable of moving up and down and upwards by following the level of liquid in the tank 20,
  • a first microswitch 110 controlling the start / stop of the pump 12, the first microswitch having a first push button 112 movable between a stable raised position and an unstable depressed position,
  • a second microswitch 120 controlling the activation of the security system 30, this second microswitch having a second push button 122 movable between a stable raised position and an unstable depressed position,
  • a pivoting arm 130 driven by the movement of the float 102, this pivoting arm being in contact with the push buttons 112, 122, first and second microswitches 110, 120, and exerting on them a greater or lesser pressure depending on the position of the float 102 and thus the height of liquid in the tank 20.

Dans la suite, la direction horizontale de référence est celle du niveau de liquide dans le réservoir 20, représenté en pointillés sur la figure 2 et repéré par la lettre N.In the following, the horizontal reference direction is that of the level of liquid in the reservoir 20, shown in dotted lines on the figure 2 and identified by the letter N.

Le flotteur 102 est solidaire d'une tige 104, guidée verticalement en translation par au moins un élément de guidage. Dans l'exemple, cet élément de guidage est un manchon de guidage 106 extérieur à la tige 104. L'élément de guidage pourrait également être un rail, ou une glissière. La tige 104 porte deux éléments de butée distants l'un de l'autre selon la direction verticale : un élément de butée bas 107 et un élément de butée haut 108. Ces éléments de butée 107, 108, définissent entre eux un espace vide, ou intervalle 109.The float 102 is secured to a rod 104, guided vertically in translation by at least one guide element. In the example, this guide member is a guide sleeve 106 outside the rod 104. The guide member could also be a rail, or a slide. The rod 104 carries two stop members spaced from each other in the vertical direction: a bottom stop member 107 and a top stop member 108. These abutment members 107, 108 define between them a void space, or interval 109.

Le bras pivotant 130 pivote autour d'un pivot cylindrique 132. Il a une forme générale en « L » avec une petite branche 133 et une grande branche 134 sensiblement perpendiculaires. La petite branche 133 est orientée plutôt verticalement, la grande branche 134 étant par conséquent orientée plutôt horizontalement. Le pivot 132 traverse la partie centrale de la petite branche 133. Le bras pivotant 130 présente une première portion de bras 135 située d'un même côté du pivot 132, au-dessus de celui-ci. Cette première portion de bras 135 appartient à la petite branche 133. Le bras pivotant 130 présente également une deuxième portion de bras 136 située entre les éléments de butée 107 et 108, dans l'intervalle 109. Cette deuxième portion de bras 136 correspond à la portion d'extrémité de la grande branche 134.The pivot arm 130 pivots around a cylindrical pivot 132. It has a general shape in "L" with a small branch 133 and a large branch 134 substantially perpendicular. The small branch 133 is oriented rather vertically, the large branch 134 is therefore oriented rather horizontally. The pivot 132 passes through the central part of the small branch 133. The pivoting arm 130 has a first arm portion 135 located on the same side of the pivot 132, above it. This first arm portion 135 belongs to the small arm 133. The pivot arm 130 also has a second arm portion 136 located between the abutment elements 107 and 108, in the gap 109. This second arm portion 136 corresponds to the end portion of the large branch 134.

La petite branche 133 est réalisée en un matériau à fort coefficient de frottement, par exemple en caoutchouc, de sorte que des forces de frottement apparaissent lorsque le bras pivotant 130 bouge par rapport au pivot 132, ce qui freine le mouvement du bras pivotant 130 et permet de le stabiliser dans une position transitoire lorsqu'il n'est pas entraîné par un des éléments de butée 107 ou 108. La petite branche 133 du bras pivotant 130 forme donc des moyens de stabilisation au sens de l'invention, du fait qu'elle est réalisée en un matériau à fort coefficient de frottement.The small branch 133 is made of a material with a high coefficient of friction, for example of rubber, so that friction forces appear when the pivoting arm 130 moves relative to the pivot 132, which slows down the movement of the pivoting arm 130 and makes it possible to stabilize it in a transient position when it is not driven by one of the abutment elements 107 or 108. The small branch 133 of the pivoting arm 130 thus forms stabilization means in the sense of the invention, since it is made of a material with a high coefficient of friction.

Les premier et deuxième microrupteurs 110, 120, sont tous les deux montés sur une plaque 101 réalisée d'un seul tenant avec ledit élément de guidage (i.e. le manchon de guidage 106). Ces microrupteurs 110, 120 sont disposés de manière à définir entre leurs boutons poussoirs 112, 122, un interstice 111. La première portion de bras 135 est logée dans cet interstice 111. Les boutons poussoirs 112, 122 des premier et deuxième microrupteurs 110, 120, sont disposés face-à-face, la première portion de bras 135 étant centrée par rapport à ces microrupteurs lorsqu'elle est dans une position sensiblement verticale. Concrètement, en référence à la figure 2, le bouton poussoir 112 du premier microrupteur 110 se situe en bas à gauche du boîtier 113 du microrupteur 110, tandis que le bouton poussoir 122 du deuxième microrupteur 120 est en bas à droite du boîtier 123 du microrupteur 120. Les premier et deuxième microrupteurs 110, 120 étant, dans l'exemple, identiques ou quasi-identiques, on comprend que ce sont les faces avant et arrière respectives des boîtier 113, 123 des microrupteurs, qui apparaissent sur la figure 2.The first and second microswitches 110, 120 are both mounted on a plate 101 formed integrally with said guide member (ie the guide sleeve 106). These microswitches 110, 120 are arranged so as to define between their push buttons 112, 122, a gap 111. The first arm portion 135 is housed in this gap 111. The push buttons 112, 122 of the first and second microswitches 110, 120 , are arranged face-to-face, the first arm portion 135 being centered relative to these microswitches when in a substantially vertical position. In concrete terms, with reference to figure 2 , the push button 112 of the first microswitch 110 is located at the bottom left of the housing 113 of the microswitch 110, while the push button 122 of the second microswitch 120 is at the bottom right of the housing 123 of the microswitch 120. The first and second microswitches 110 , 120 being, in the example, identical or quasi-identical, it is understood that it is the respective front and rear faces of the housings 113, 123 of the microswitches, which appear on the figure 2 .

Dans l'exemple, lorsque la première portion de bras 135 est orientée verticalement, elle est en contact avec les deux boutons poussoirs 112, 122. En d'autres termes, la distance entre les deux boutons poussoirs 112, 122, lorsqu'ils sont tous les deux dans leur position relevée, est inférieure à la largeur de la première portion de bras 135.In the example, when the first arm portion 135 is oriented vertically, it is in contact with the two push buttons 112, 122. In other words, the distance between the two push buttons 112, 122, when they are both in their raised position is smaller than the width of the first arm portion 135.

Le premier microrupteur 110 est connecté au moteur électrique 13 et commande la mise en marche du moteur 13, et donc de la pompe 12, lorsque le premier bouton poussoir 112 passe en position enfoncée. De plus, il commande l'arrêt du moteur 13, et donc de la pompe 12, lorsque le premier bouton poussoir 112 passe en position relevée.The first microswitch 110 is connected to the electric motor 13 and controls the starting of the motor 13, and therefore of the pump 12, when the first push button 112 goes into the depressed position. In addition, it controls the stopping of the motor 13, and therefore of the pump 12, when the first push button 112 goes into the raised position.

Le deuxième microrupteur 120 commande l'activation du système de sécurité 30 lorsque le deuxième bouton poussoir 122 passe en position relevée.The second microswitch 120 controls the activation of the security system 30 when the second pushbutton 122 moves to the raised position.

En référence à la figure 2, on va maintenant décrire le fonctionnement du dispositif de détection 100 et du système de pompage 10.With reference to the figure 2 the operation of the detection device 100 and the pumping system 10 will now be described.

Lorsque le niveau de liquide N monte, le flotteur 102 monte et l'élément de butée bas 107 vient pousser vers le haut la deuxième portion 136 du bras pivotant 130. La force exercée par l'élément de butée 107 étant supérieure aux forces de frottement entre le bras pivotant 130 et son pivot 132, le bras 130 pivote. La première portion 135 du bras pivotant 130 se déplace alors vers la gauche (en référence à la figure 2) et appuie sur le premier bouton poussoir 112 qui s'enfonce. Lorsque le niveau de liquide N atteint un niveau maximum autorisé Ma, le premier microrupteur 110 change d'état et commande la mise en marche du moteur 13 et de la pompe 12.When the liquid level N rises, the float 102 rises and the low stop element 107 pushes up the second portion 136 of the pivoting arm 130. The force exerted by the stop element 107 is greater than the frictional forces. between the pivot arm 130 and its pivot 132, the arm 130 pivots. The first portion 135 of the pivoting arm 130 then moves to the left (with reference to the figure 2 ) and presses the first push button 112 which sinks. When the liquid level N reaches a maximum authorized level Ma, the first microswitch 110 changes state and controls the start of the motor 13 and the pump 12.

On notera que, dans le même temps, la première portion 135 du bras pivotant 130 relâche la pression exercée sur le deuxième bouton poussoir 122 qui remonte spontanément vers sa position relevée sous l'effet de moyens de rappel travaillant en compression, logés dans le boîtier 123, mais elle ne relâche pas suffisamment ce bouton poussoir 122 pour que le deuxième microrupteur 120 change d'état.It will be noted that, at the same time, the first portion 135 of the pivoting arm 130 releases the pressure exerted on the second push button 122 which spontaneously rises towards its raised position under the effect of compression-biasing means housed in the housing 123, but it does not release enough push button 122 for the second microswitch 120 to change state.

La pompe 12 étant en marche, le niveau de liquide N et le flotteur 102 redescendent. Tant que l'élément de butée haut 108 ne vient pas au contact de la portion de bras 136, le bras pivotant 130 reste dans la position qu'il avait, cette position étant une position transitoire au sens de l'invention. Ceci est possible grâce aux forces de frottement entre le bras 130 et son pivot 132 qui s'opposent, en particulier, au poids du bras 130. Par ailleurs, on notera que les forces exercées par les boutons poussoirs 112 et 122 sur le bras 130 s'opposent entre elles, au moins en partie, ce qui permet de limiter l'effet perturbateur de ces forces.With the pump 12 running, the liquid level N and the float 102 come down again. As long as the high stop element 108 does not come into contact with the arm portion 136, the pivoting arm 130 remains in the position it had, this position being a transient position within the meaning of the invention. This is possible thanks to the frictional forces between the arm 130 and its pivot 132 which oppose, in particular, the weight of the arm 130. Furthermore, it will be noted that the forces exerted by the push buttons 112 and 122 on the arm 130 are at least partly opposed to each other, which limits the disruptive effect of these forces.

Lorsque l'élément de butée haut 108 vient pousser vers le bas la deuxième portion 136 du bras pivotant 130, la force exercée par l'élément de butée 108 est supérieure aux forces de frottement et le bras 130 pivote. La première portion 135 du bras pivotant 130 se déplace alors vers la droite (en référence à la figure 2) et relâche le premier bouton poussoir 112 qui remonte alors spontanément vers sa position relevée sous l'effet de moyens de rappel travaillant en compression, logés dans le boîtier 113. Lorsque le niveau de liquide N atteint un niveau minimum autorisé Mi, le premier microrupteur 110 change d'état et commande l'arrêt du moteur 13 et de la pompe 12.When the top stop member 108 pushes down the second portion 136 of the pivot arm 130, the force exerted by the stop member 108 is greater than the frictional forces and the arm 130 rotates. The first portion 135 of the pivoting arm 130 then moves to the right (with reference to the figure 2 ) and releases the first push button 112 which then spontaneously rises to its raised position under the effect of compression-biasing means housed in the housing 113. When the liquid level N reaches a minimum permitted level Mi, the first microswitch 110 changes state and controls the stopping of motor 13 and pump 12.

Le niveau de liquide N va alors augmenter, le bras pivotant 130 restant dans une position transitoire, tant qu'il n'est pas entraîné par l'élément de butée bas 107. Un nouveau cycle de remplissage/pompage débute.The liquid level N will then increase, the pivoting arm 130 remaining in a transient position, as long as it is not driven by the low stop element 107. A new filling / pumping cycle begins.

Comme indiqué précédemment, il est possible de rencontrer un problème de dysfonctionnement (i.e. pas de pompage, ou pompage insuffisant par rapport au volume de liquide arrivant dans le réservoir) entraînant la montée du niveau de liquide N au dessus du niveau maximum autorisé Ma. Dans un tel cas, le flotteur 102 et l'élément de butée bas 107 poussent la deuxième portion de bras 136 vers le haut de sorte que la bras 130 pivote. La première portion de bras 135 se déplace ainsi vers la gauche et relâche de plus en plus le deuxième bouton poussoir 122 qui remonte alors spontanément vers sa position relevée. Lorsque le niveau de liquide N atteint un niveau de sécurité Ns, la première portion de bras 135 relâche suffisamment le bouton poussoir 122 pour que le deuxième microrupteur 120 change d'état et commande l'activation de l'alarme 30.As indicated above, it is possible to encounter a problem of malfunction (ie no pumping, or insufficient pumping compared to the volume of liquid arriving in the tank) causing the rise of the liquid level N above the maximum level allowed Ma. in such a case, the float 102 and the bottom stop member 107 push the second arm portion 136 upwardly so that the arm 130 pivots. The first portion of arm 135 thus moves to the left and releases more and more second push button 122 which then spontaneously rises to its raised position. When the liquid level N reaches a safety level Ns, the first arm portion 135 releases the pushbutton 122 sufficiently so that the second microswitch 120 changes state and controls the activation of the alarm 30.

La figure 3 représente un exemple de système de climatisation 1 selon l'invention comprenant un échangeur de chaleur 2 à l'intérieur duquel circule un fluide froid (par exemple de l'eau) ou réfrigérant, utilisé comme source froide de l'échangeur 2, un ventilateur 3 destiné à mettre l'air ambiant en mouvement pour l'amener au contact de l'échangeur 2, et un bac de récupération principal 4 de liquide 6 disposé sous l'échangeur 2. Lorsque l'air ambiant plus ou moins humide est refroidi au contact de l'échangeur 2, la vapeur d'eau contenue dans l'air se condense et des gouttelettes 6' se forment sur les parois extérieures de l'échangeur 2. Ces gouttelettes 6' tombent ensuite par gravité dans le bac de récupération principal 4.The figure 3 represents an example of air conditioning system 1 according to the invention comprising a heat exchanger 2 inside which circulates a cold fluid (for example water) or refrigerant, used as heat sink of the exchanger 2, a fan 3 for putting the ambient air in motion to bring it into contact with the exchanger 2, and a main recovery tank 4 of liquid 6 disposed under the exchanger 2. When the ambient air more or less humid is cooled in contact with the exchanger 2, the water vapor contained in the air is condensing and droplets 6 'are formed on the outer walls of the exchanger 2. These droplets 6' then fall by gravity into the main collection tank 4.

Pour pomper le liquide de condensation 6, le système de climatisation 1 est équipé d'un système de pompage 10 comme celui de la figure 1. Ce système de pompage 10 est placé dans un réservoir 20 qui communique avec le bac de récupération 4 par l'intermédiaire d'un conduit 5. Le liquide 6 récupéré dans le bac principal 4 passe dans le réservoir 20 où il est pompé par la pompe 12 et évacué via un conduit d'évacuation 7.In order to pump the condensation liquid 6, the air conditioning system 1 is equipped with a pumping system 10 such as that of the figure 1 . This pumping system 10 is placed in a reservoir 20 which communicates with the recovery tank 4 via a conduit 5. The liquid 6 recovered in the main tank 4 passes into the tank 20 where it is pumped by the pump 12 and evacuated via an evacuation pipe 7.

On notera que le système de pompage 10 pourrait être placé directement dans le bac de récupération 4 qui, dans ce cas, serait considéré comme un réservoir au sens de l'invention.It will be noted that the pumping system 10 could be placed directly in the recovery tank 4 which, in this case, would be considered as a reservoir within the meaning of the invention.

Dans cet exemple, le système de sécurité 30 est un système de coupure de l'alimentation électrique du système de climatisation, ce qui permet d'arrêter, en particulier, le ventilateur 3. Ce système de sécurité 30 est intégré au système de climatisation 1. Ce système de sécurité 30 pourrait être associé ou remplacé par d'autres types de systèmes de sécurité et, notamment, par un système d'alerte lumineuse ou sonore et/ou un système de coupure de l'alimentation en fluide de l'échangeur 2.In this example, the security system 30 is a system for cutting off the power supply of the air conditioning system, which makes it possible to stop, in particular, the fan 3. This safety system 30 is integrated with the air conditioning system 1 This security system 30 could be associated or replaced by other types of security systems and, in particular, by a light or sound warning system and / or a system for cutting off the fluid supply of the exchanger. 2.

5.4 détails du fonctionnement du premier exemple5.4 details of the operation of the first example

Les figures 4 à 8 illustrent plus en détail le fonctionnement du dispositif de commande d'une pompe de relevage de condensats conforme à l'invention et tel que décrit plus haut.The Figures 4 to 8 illustrate in more detail the operation of the control device of a condensate lift pump according to the invention and as described above.

Sur la figure 4, le flotteur 102 est monté jusqu'à un niveau N=N1, ce niveau étant supérieur au niveau Mi et inférieur au niveau Ma. Le bras pivotant ou élément d'actionnement 130 appuie sur les boutons poussoir comme illustré, le deuxième bouton poussoir 122 étant dans l'état enfoncé instable tandis que le premier bouton poussoir 112 est relevé et stable. Le dispositif est dans un état de repos (la pompe étant arrêtée).On the figure 4 , the float 102 is mounted to a level N = N1, this level being greater than the level Mi and lower than the level Ma. The pivoting arm or actuating element 130 presses the push buttons as illustrated, the second pushbutton 122 being in the depressed state unstable while the first push button 112 is raised and stable. The device is in a state of rest (the pump being stopped).

Lorsque le flotteur 102 monte à un niveau N=Ma, le niveau de condensats ayant monté, la branche 134 de l'élément d'actionnement 130 est contrainte par l'élément de butée bas 107 et l'élément d'actionnement 130 pivote autour du pivot 132 de manière à enfoncer le premier bouton poussoir 112, tandis que le deuxième bouton poussoir 122 reste dans l'état enfoncé. Le passage du premier bouton poussoir 112 de l'état relevé à l'état enfoncé permet de commander la mise en marche de la pompe de manière à ce que le niveau de condensats diminue dans le réservoir. Le dispositif est alors dans un état actif (la pompe étant en marche).When the float 102 rises to a level N = Ma, the level of condensates having risen, the branch 134 of the actuating element 130 is constrained by the bottom stop element 107 and the actuating element 130 pivots around pivot 132 to depress the first push button 112, while the second push button 122 remains in the depressed state. The passage of the first push button 112 from the raised state to the depressed state makes it possible to control the start-up of the pump so that the level of condensates decreases in the reservoir. The device is then in an active state (the pump is running).

Pendant cette diminution de volume de condensats, l'élément d'actionnement reste dans la position d'actionnement du premier bouton poussoir 112, comme illustré sur la figure 6 dans laquelle le flotteur est à un niveau N =N2 compris entre Mi et Ma, de telle sorte que la pompe continue de fonctionner, pompant le liquide formé de condensats. Le dispositif reste dans l'état actif. Des moyens de stabilisation constitués dans cet exemple par une surface de friction ou un matériau à fort coefficient de frottement disposé sur l'élément d'actionnement 130 à l'endroit du contact entre l'élément d'actionnement et les premier et deuxième boutons poussoir 112 et 122, permettent de retenir l'élément d'actionnement 130 dans cet état provisoire actif où la pompe est actionnée, le premier bouton poussoir 112 restant enfoncé.During this decrease in condensate volume, the actuating element remains in the actuation position of the first pushbutton 112, as illustrated in FIG. figure 6 wherein the float is at a level N = N2 between Mi and Ma, so that the pump continues to operate, pumping the liquid formed of condensates. The device remains in the active state. Stabilization means constituted in this example by a friction surface or a material with a high coefficient of friction disposed on the actuating element 130 at the point of contact between the actuating element and the first and second push buttons 112 and 122, allow to retain the actuating element 130 in this active provisional state where the pump is actuated, the first push button 112 remains depressed.

Lorsque le niveau du flotteur 102 (ou des condensats) atteint un niveau N environ égal à Mi, l'élément de butée haut 108 contraint l'élément d'actionnement 130 à pivoter de manière à revenir dans une position illustrée sur la figure 7, dans laquelle le premier bouton poussoir 112 est dans la position relevée, tandis que le deuxième bouton poussoir est dans une position enfoncée.When the float level 102 (or condensates) reaches a level N approximately equal to Mi, the upper stop element 108 causes the actuating element 130 to pivot so as to return to a position illustrated in FIG. figure 7 in which the first push button 112 is in the raised position, while the second push button is in a depressed position.

En fonctionnement normal du dispositif et de la pompe, le deuxième microrupteur n'est pas activé.In normal operation of the device and the pump, the second microswitch is not activated.

En cas de dysfonctionnement du dispositif et/ou de la pompe, le niveau de condensats N continue à augmenter dans le réservoir. Lorsqu'il atteint un niveau Ns, comme illustré sur la figure 8, l'élément d'actionnement 130 entraîné en pivotement par l'élément de butée bas 107 atteint un angle de pivotement tel que le deuxième bouton poussoir 122 passe en position relevée, alors qu'il était auparavant resté en position enfoncée, ce qui provoque le déclenchement d'une action de sécurité, par exemple l'arrêt de la machine produisant les condensats, la génération d'une alarme et/ou la mise en marche d'une deuxième pompe. Le premier bouton poussoir 112 reste dans l'état instable (c'est-à-dire suffisamment enfoncé), et la pompe est donc en marche.In case of malfunction of the device and / or the pump, the condensate level N continues to increase in the tank. When it reaches a level Ns, as illustrated on the figure 8 , the actuating element 130 pivotally driven by the low abutment member 107 reaches a pivot angle such that the second push button 122 goes into the raised position, whereas it had previously remained in the depressed position, which causes the triggering of a safety action, for example the stopping of the machine producing the condensates, the generation of a alarm and / or the start-up of a second pump. The first pushbutton 112 remains in the unstable state (that is, sufficiently depressed), and the pump is thus running.

5.5 autres exemples de mises en oeuvre et variantes5.5 other examples of implementations and variants

Comme indiqué plus haut, les moyens de stabilisation peuvent être constitués autrement que par une surface de friction. On a représenté sur la figure 9 un dispositif dans lequel les moyens de stabilisation sont constitués par au moins un aimant 150, permettant de maintenir l'élément d'actionnement 130 en appui contre le premier bouton poussoir 112 tant que le liquide dans le réservoir n'a pas atteint un niveau N=Mi.As indicated above, the stabilizing means may be constituted other than by a friction surface. We have shown on the figure 9 a device in which the stabilization means are constituted by at least one magnet 150, for holding the actuating element 130 in abutment against the first push button 112 as the liquid in the reservoir has not reached a level N = Mi.

Dans cet exemple également, illustré sur la figure 9A, l'élément d'actionnement 130 dont une partie est visible sur cette figure, comporte une tige plate vrillée, dont l'extrémité 151 est déplacée par l'intermédiaire de l'élément de la figure 9B, présentant deux butées 191 et 192 montées sur une tige 193 entraînée par un flotteur 194.In this example as well, illustrated on the Figure 9A , the actuating element 130, part of which is visible in this figure, comprises a twisted flat stem, the end 151 of which is displaced via the element of the Figure 9B , having two stops 191 and 192 mounted on a rod 193 driven by a float 194.

On remarque également que les microrupteurs 110 et 120 sont placés perpendiculairement à ceux des figures 1 à 8, à l'horizontale.It is also noted that the microswitches 110 and 120 are placed perpendicular to those of the Figures 1 to 8 , horizontally.

On a représenté, également dans ce sens horizontal, deux microrupteurs 110 et 120 d'un autre dispositif illustré sur la figure 10, dont l'élément d'actionnement 130 est monté avec jeu sur un pivot 132 sur lequel on monte en force un moyen de stabilisation constitué dans cet exemple par une surface de friction ou un matériau à fort coefficient de frottement disposé sur l'élément d'actionnement 130Also shown in this horizontal direction are two microswitches 110 and 120 of another device shown in FIG. figure 10 , whose actuating element 130 is mounted with play on a pivot 132 on which is mounted in force a stabilizing means constituted in this example by a friction surface or a high friction material disposed on the element d 130 actuation

Un dispositif similaire à celui de la figure 10 a été représenté sur la figure 11, dans lequel l'élément d'actionnement 130 est coudé.A device similar to that of the figure 10 was represented on the figure 11 in which the actuating element 130 is bent.

Sur la figure 12, on a représenté un autre exemple de flotteur 102 utilisable dans le dispositif selon l'invention, ayant une forme de haricot (non visible) en vue de dessus. Il est apte à pivoter sur lui-même sans toutefois coincer l'élément d'actionnement.On the figure 12 another example of a float 102 that can be used in the device according to the invention, having a bean shape (not visible) in top view. It is able to pivot on itself without however jamming the actuating element.

Sur la figure 13, on a représenté isolément un élément d'actionnement 130 comprenant un coude, un pivot 132 rigide et une surface de friction réduite.On the figure 13 , there is shown separately an actuating element 130 comprising a bend, a rigid pivot 132 and a reduced friction surface.

Selon encore d'autres modes de réalisation, non représentés, la tige 104 peut agir directement sur les boutons poussoirs, sans l'intermédiaire d'un levier. Le cas échéant, la dimension du flotteur peut alors être augmentée, pour fournir une force suffisante pour agir sur les boutons poussoirs. La tige 4 peut par exemple porter une bague mobile en coulissement, restant immobile pendant que le niveau baisse, jusqu'à ce que le niveau minimum soit atteint. Une butée montée sur la tige peut alors entraîner la bague, ce qui assure l'arrêt de la pompe.According to still other embodiments, not shown, the rod 104 can act directly on the push buttons, without the intermediary of a lever. If necessary, the float dimension can then be increased, to provide sufficient force to act on the push buttons. The rod 4 may for example carry a sliding mobile ring, remaining stationary while the level drops, until the minimum level is reached. A stop mounted on the rod can then drive the ring, which ensures the stoppage of the pump.

Il est également possible que la tige soit adaptée en elle-même pour assurer l'actionnement de la pompe de la façon voulue, par exemple avec un relief adapté pour définir des cames, agissant sur les boutons poussoirs en fonction du niveau (l'actionnement distinct entre le sens de la montée et la baisse du niveau pouvant être assuré par une rotation contrôlée, via ces cames, de la tige).It is also possible that the rod is adapted in itself to ensure the actuation of the pump in the desired manner, for example with a relief adapted to define cams, acting on the push buttons depending on the level (actuation distinct between the direction of the rise and the decrease of the level that can be ensured by a controlled rotation, via these cams, of the rod).

Claims (12)

  1. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump, comprising:
    - a float (102) which is designed to be placed in a tank (20), and can be displaced according to the level of condensates in the tank;
    - an actuating element (130) which is driven by the movement of the said float (102),
    characterised in that said actuating element is configured and fitted such as to act selectively on a first and a second microswitch (110, 120) which have respectively a first and a second push-button (112, 122) which are mobile between two positions, so as to define three distinct states:
    - a state of rest, in which said pump is stopped, said first push-button (112) being in a first position which assures the stoppage of said pump, and said second push-button (122) being in a second position;
    - an active state, in which said pump is operating, said first push-button (112) being in a second position which assures activation of said pump, and said second push-button (122) remaining in its second position;
    - an alarm state, in which a safety action is triggered, said first push-button (112) which remains in its second position assuring activation of said pump, and said second push-button (122) being in a first position which assures triggering of a safety action,
    said actuating element being configured and fitted such that said device goes:
    - from said state of rest to said active state when said level of condensates rises and reaches a maximum predefined level (Ma);
    - from said active state to said state of rest when said level of condensates drops and reaches a minimum predefined level (Mi) which is flower than said maximum level (ma);
    - from said active state to said alarm state when said level of condensates reaches a safety level (Ns) which is higher than said maximum level (Ma).
  2. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to claim 1, characterised in that said microswitches are monostable microswitches, said first position being a stable position and said second position being an unstable position.
  3. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to claim 2, characterised in that said actuating element has stabilisation means which co-operates with at least said first push-button in order to maintain it in its unstable position for as long as said level of condensates is dropping and is higher than said minimum predefined level (Mi).
  4. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to claim 3, characterised in that the stabilisation means comprises at least one friction surface, and in particular a material with a high coefficient of friction.
  5. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to claim 3, characterised in that the stabilisation means comprises at least one magnet.
  6. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterised in that said first and second microswitches are fitted such that said actuating element is retained, when the device is in the active state, by said push-buttons.
  7. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the safety action is selected from amongst at least one of the following: stoppage of the machine which produces condensates, generation of an alarm, starting up of a second pump.
  8. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein:
    - the actuating element (130) pivots around a pivot (132) and comprises a first portion of arm (135) which is situated on the same side of this pivot;
    - the first and second microswitches (110, 120) define a gap (111) between their push-buttons (112, 122), the first portion of actuating element (135) being accommodated in this gap.
  9. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to the preceding claim, wherein the first and second push-buttons (112, 122) are disposed face to face.
  10. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second microswitches (110, 120) are identical or quasi identical.
  11. Control device for a condensate-lifting pump according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising two stop elements (107, 108) which are spaced from one another and are separated by an empty space (109) in which a second portion (136) of the actuating element is situated, these stop elements (107, 108) being driven by the movement of the float (102) and in turn driving the actuating element (130).
  12. Air-conditioning or heating system comprising a liquid recovery tank (20), equipped with a control device for a condensate lifting pump according to any one of the preceding claims.
EP09164606A 2008-07-04 2009-07-03 Device for controlling a condensate-lifting pump Active EP2141721B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0854562A FR2933531B1 (en) 2008-07-04 2008-07-04 DEVICE FOR DETECTING LIQUID LEVEL

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2141721A2 EP2141721A2 (en) 2010-01-06
EP2141721A3 EP2141721A3 (en) 2010-04-07
EP2141721B1 true EP2141721B1 (en) 2012-05-16

Family

ID=40058243

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP09164606A Active EP2141721B1 (en) 2008-07-04 2009-07-03 Device for controlling a condensate-lifting pump

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US (1) US8151592B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2141721B1 (en)
FR (1) FR2933531B1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20100089086A1 (en) 2010-04-15
FR2933531B1 (en) 2013-03-01
EP2141721A3 (en) 2010-04-07
US8151592B2 (en) 2012-04-10
FR2933531A1 (en) 2010-01-08
EP2141721A2 (en) 2010-01-06

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