EP3034772A1 - Sealing device of an opening for protecting against flooding - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a sealing device providing protection against flooding. The device seals all or part of a lower opening of a building or even a floor area bounded by one or more vertical surfaces. The device comprises a tubular rigid structure, and a watertight web (1) which comprises on all or part of its periphery an edge (2) which is compressed by means of compression (4b, 5, 6.7c) of said structure , on the surface of the opening. The tubular structure further comprises a high horizontal bar (4a) attached to the fabric and allowing to collect the forces on the fabric. The advantage of the device according to the invention is to implement a removable tubular structure capable of exerting compression forces of the edge of the fabric on the opening and allowing the fabric to withstand the forces generated by the pressure of the fabric. 'water.

Description

Technical area

The present invention relates to the field of sealing devices of an opening, to ensure the sealing of at least the lower part of this opening. This opening may for example be that of a traffic corridor, a siding, a door, a window, a bay window or any other opening in a building (with or without joinery). This opening can also be that of a floor area bounded by one or more vertical surfaces. Such a sealing device is a protective solution to the threat posed by floods.

State of the art

Rigid devices commonly encountered for flood protection, such as cofferdam or panel, are expensive and / or binding to implement as soon as the water heights or the sections to be protected become important. In addition, such devices occupy large volumes during storage during periods of non-use.

The flexible devices commonly encountered require either large floor areas (making it difficult to install them in the frames of the openings, or even impossible if they are shallow), or many fasteners at the periphery of the fabric, to maintain an edge on the surfaces of the opening or to fix profiles to maintain the system in position, forcing many holes.

By way of example, mention may be made of the sealing devices known from the documents EP0841458A2 , GB2373534A , FR2730263A1 , US5943832A , DE29713378U1 . Among these devices, that described in the document EP0841458A2 comprises a tight web and a tubular structure which makes it possible to press the edge of the fabric on the lower face and the lateral faces of the contour of an opening. A sealing system is implemented at the edge of the fabric, of the inflatable element type which is taken between said faces of the contour of the opening and the tubular structure, configured for this purpose. This design reduces the size of the sealing device, out of period of use.

Summary of the invention

The present invention aims to design a water seal of an opening using an optimized tubular structure, capable of withstanding significant pressures of water while maintaining the canvas in a vertical position.

To this end, the invention relates to a sealing device of an opening for sealing at least the lower part of this opening defined by a floor surface and two vertical surfaces. The device comprises a watertight web provided at its periphery with an edge, and a tubular structure comprising compression means configured to crush said edge on said surfaces so as to hold the fabric tight with respect to the opening. Thus, the device allows to define a protected area and a flooded area delimited by the canvas. In addition, the tubular structure further comprises an upper horizontal bar which extends along the length of the fabric, said upper horizontal bar being fixed to the top of said fabric over all or part of its length. This upper horizontal bar is a horizontal reinforcement on the canvas, allowing it to cash, without significant deformation, the forces exerted by the water during a flood.

This horizontal bar may be independent of the compression means. In a variant, in order to reinforce the retention of the fabric, the upper horizontal bar is fixed to the compression means by means of rigid or flexible connecting elements.

According to the invention, the compression means comprise a low horizontal bar, junction plates for fixing said low horizontal bar to the opening, rigid counter-support elements subjected to the horizontal low bar or to the connecting plates, movable rigid support elements configured to bear on the edge of the fabric, and a compression system configured to bear against the rigid counter-support elements and against the horizontal low bar and to compress the rigid mobile support elements against the edge of the canvas. The compression system is mechanical screw type, or pneumatic or hydraulic expansion type, or a combination of these types.

In a variant, in order to improve their performance, the compression means further comprise an additional horizontal bar, additional junction plates for attaching said additional horizontal bar to the opening, the rigid counter-support elements being also subject to at this bar.

According to the device object of the invention, it comprises a peripheral sealing system arranged between the edge of the fabric and the surfaces of the opening, optimizing the seal between said elements.

In a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the tubular structure comprises, in addition to the upper horizontal bar, vertical and / or horizontal reinforcements subject to the fabric. Preferably, the vertical and / or horizontal reinforcements are implemented by profiles placed in sleeves. Preferably, these profiles are positioned at the periphery of the edge of the fabric bearing against the compression means.

In a variant of the device according to the invention, supports are configured to maintain the upper horizontal bar at regular intervals over its entire length, the bottom of these supports being secured to either the device or the ground and placed on the ground surface, on the side of the protected area. Preferably, removable supports are secured to the horizontal bar at regular intervals and / or at junction areas of different rectangular sections of the fabric.

In a variant of the device according to the invention, at least one horizontal bar among the horizontal bars low, high and additional, is implemented by means of several elements joined together.

Thus, the device according to the invention consists of a flexible, resistant and waterproof fabric (pool liner type), comprising on all or part of its periphery a continuous edge comprising one side per surface flanking the opening or defining the area to protect. This continuous edge forms an angle or not an angle with the fabric, and its sides are parallel to these surfaces on which they are intended to be pressed and compressed. The sides of the edge are joined together by their common ends and can be of different depths. The surfaces are considered flat and resistant and are generally horizontal (SH) and / or vertical (SV).

For the majority of uses, the flexible fabric has a vertical position, and the low side of the edge (or low edge) is perpendicular to said fabric (with angular tolerance for both), this being constituted of a single section rectangular in the case of a rectilinear protection, and several consecutive rectangular sections not aligned in the case of a non-rectilinear protection.

In the case of rectilinear protection at the bottom of the opening, the rectangular section of the fabric shall be the width of the opening and have a three-sided edge, one of which shall have a bottom edge and two sides for the side surfaces (or side edges). This is usually placed in the frame of the opening.

In the case of rectilinear protection for full opening, the rectangular section of fabric shall be of the width and height of the opening and have a four-sided edge, generally perpendicular to the fabric.

In the case of non-rectilinear protection, the different non-aligned rectangular sections constituting the vertical fabric each comprise a low edge, all located on the same side. These different sections and the common ends of their lower edges are secured to each other and their junctions are sealed (JE). It is understood that the bottom edges of the different sections are considered to ultimately form only one and the same bottom edge and that the entire continuous edge / rectangular sections of fabric is considered to ultimately form only one and the same canvas. The number of non-aligned vertical rectangular sections depending on the configuration of the area to be protected.

For all cases, the common ends of the sides of this edge of the fabric are secured to each other and their junctions are watertight (JE), vertical fabric and edge forming a single and tight piece on a sufficient portion of the area of support on the surfaces.

In most applications, a flexible gasket type sealant or other sealable material is positioned at the contact areas between the outside of the fabric edge and the framing or delimitation (or bearing surfaces). This canvas edge and these bearing surfaces must be of sufficient depth to accommodate a sealing system large enough to ensure proper operation.

A tubular structure makes it possible to hold the flexible fabric in place and to collect the forces of the water on it and the compressive forces required to crush the edge on the surfaces.

Maintaining the vertical position of the fabric through this tubular structure allows among other things to achieve compact protections that can be placed in shallow frames, the deformations of fabric being minimal.

The tubular structure is composed of at least two horizontal bars (round tube type, square or any other sufficiently rigid profile) of which an upper horizontal bar fixed to the top of the vertical fabric over all or part of its length (via a / sheaths (s) welded (s) for example) and a low horizontal bar to resume the compression efforts of the low edge and positioned on the same side as the edge of canvas, protected area side (ZP) or flooded area (ZI ) depending on the situation.

In the case of rectilinear protections of small and medium dimensions, the low horizontal bar of this tubular structure is fixed at its ends to the surfaces flanking the opening or the facade of the opening according to the case. The tubular structure may comprise an additional horizontal bar also fixed to said surfaces.

The tubular structure being secured to the surfaces (directly or via junction plates) and the necessary compression forces being fully taken up on it, no fasteners and / or fasteners of profiles are necessary at the level of the peripheral support zone. to maintain the system and / or to join the fabric to the surfaces.

In the case of non-rectilinear protections and / or large dimensions, the upper horizontal bar is maintained at regular intervals along its entire length by supports of the "strut" type resting on the horizontal surface on the protected area (ZP) side. In order to be able to resume the compression efforts of the low edge over long spans, the low horizontal bar is secured to the ground by removable supports also placed at regular intervals and / or at the junction areas of the different rectangular sections of fabric.

The bars can be made in one or more elements (tubes joined together by interlocking and / or secured to the intermediate supports for the lower bar for example).

Rigid counter-support elements, placed towards the inside of the frame formed by the fabric edge, are secured to the bearing surfaces directly or via the low horizontal bar and, optionally, the additional horizontal bar, of the tubular structure. They allow compression systems to be supported on one side on said rigid elements of against support and on the other side on said edge of canvas. The rigid counter-low support element is generally provided directly by the low horizontal bar.

These compression systems have sufficient force to compress the web / seal edge assembly on the bearing surfaces to provide a good seal. They can be indifferently pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical (it is even possible to combine several technologies on the same protection). In some cases, the rigid counter-support member and the compression system may form a single assembly. The number and location of the compression points is a function of the dimensions of the sealing device.

In order to obtain a constant pressure on the entire surface of the joint, rigid rigid sheet-type support elements or profiles can be inserted between the edges of the fabric and the compression systems.

The device according to the subject invention therefore comprises, on the fabric edge side, an assembly composed of a rigid counter-support element, a compression system and if necessary a movable rigid support element. Either at least three sets for the protection of a lower opening part and four sets for the protection of a complete opening.

The pressure of the water exerted on the device is important. In order to limit the deformations and movements of the fabric, these can be equipped with more or less vertical and / or horizontal reinforcements placed or not in sleeves fixed to the fabric (by welds or seams sealed) and secured or not to the structure of the system by rigid or flexible connecting elements. These reinforcing elements are complementary to the horizontal bar high, which allows itself to limit the efforts on the canvas under the pressure of water.

It is the compressive forces of the edge on the bearing surfaces which ensure the blocking of the fabric, but this can be reinforced by means of tubes (or profiles) integrated into sheaths at the ends of the edge and abutting on the compression means. Other tubes integrated with sheaths, can be arranged vertically or horizontally in other places on the canvas.

In the case of mechanical type compression systems, the top of the rigid mobile support elements may be equipped with stops to prevent movement and further strengthen this blockage.

Depending on the type of protection put in place, the tubular structure has specific features.

A first case concerns rectilinear protections for low part of small and medium size openings. It is understood by "small and medium size" openings for which the horizontal structural tubes do not undergo excessive deformation during their use and keep an "acceptable" section without the need for supports or intermediate reinforcements.

In this case, for convenience of implementation and in order to stiffen the assembly, the tubular structure may comprise an additional horizontal bar (or several if necessary) to make a rigid frame with the horizontal bar and low elements rigid side against support. The upper horizontal bar being secured to this frame via rigid connecting elements, and this frame connected to the bearing surfaces by the ends of the horizontal bars and additional low, through connecting plates. If no additional horizontal bar is used, the mounting is substantially the same but the high junction plates are no longer linked to one another by this bar.

If the frames of the openings to be protected do not have sufficient bearing surfaces to accommodate the terminal boards and a sufficiently wide edge, and no access to the system is possible on the protected area (ZP) side (c) this is particularly the case of window-type fixed windows, the list of examples of applications being not exhaustive), this rigid frame (or the system without additional bar) is wider than the opening and can be mounted on its face and secured to it directly or by connecting plates. This mounting, said "projecting", saves space for the edge of the fabric which must keep an acceptable depth for the joint. In this case the upper horizontal bar (which is narrower than the opening) is placed inside the frame and the whole structure and the edge of the fabric are located on the side of the flooded area (ZI ).

If access to the system is possible on the side of the protected area (ZP) (this is particularly the case of doorstep joinery, the list of examples of applications being non-exhaustive), it is the horizontal bar upper, in this case wider than the opening, which bears on the front and the rigid frame of the tubular structure (narrower than the opening) is placed inside the frame and secured to that- ci by the junction plates (connection that can be done only by the bottom plates). The entire structure and the edge of the fabric are located on the protected area (ZP) side. Note that in this case, the previous editing is also possible.

A second case concerns rectilinear protections for complete openings.

In this case, the rigid frame described above is mounted projecting or recessed (connecting plates fixed to the vertical frame surfaces if space is available), the rigid elements against high support being secured to the additional bar.

In addition, the canvas edge has four sides and the rectangular section of canvas is dimensions of the opening.

A third case concerns openings with no or almost no support surfaces at the frame, but that space is available on the facade around the opening (this is particularly the case of some joinery type windows, sinks and doors, the list of examples of applications being non-exhaustive).

The rigid frame, wider than the opening, is secured to this facade thanks to the connecting plates, taking care to leave a space between the horizontal bars and the facade for mounting the compression systems and the fabric.

If space is exploitable between the bottom of the opening and the ground (for example a case of a fairly high border and whose edge is aligned with the vertical frame of the opening), the flexible fabric has all three sides of its edge (the four in the case of a full opening protection) aligned with the rectangular section of canvas, and stands between the facade and the tubular structure. Its section is then larger than the opening of at least the width of its edges and these, equipped with a seal, are compressed on the facade (and the lip) to ensure peripheral sealing. The rigid elements of counter-support and the compression systems are oriented accordingly.

On the contrary, if no space is exploitable in the lower part of the facade of the opening (generally because there is a horizontal surface like the ground or a border overflowing of the frame), the flexible fabric has in this case its two lateral edges aligned with the rectangular section of fabric and its bottom edge is perpendicular to the assembly (being parallel to the horizontal surface). The edge and its gasket are continuous and compressed on the facade and the ground to ensure peripheral sealing. The rigid elements of counter-support and the compression systems are oriented accordingly.

For both cases, the high horizontal bar is supported on the facade (secured or not) and the profiles mounted in end-end sleeves are retained for the blocking of the fabric.

A fourth case concerns rectilinear protections of great length.

In this case, if there is little space available on the protected area (ZP) side (this is particularly the case for masonry frames for joinery type large windows fixed, the list of examples of uses being non-exhaustive), it is possible in this case to intercalate intermediate poles between several elements of the rectilinear protection device for the lower part of small and medium-sized openings (flush or surface mounting, with or without additional horizontal bar). This allows the system to maintain acceptable rigidity. Side seals are made on vertical surfaces (usually at the beginning and at the end of the protection) and on the sides of the posts. These intermediate posts must be secured to the / horizontal framing surfaces to be able to absorb the forces exerted by water on the canvas and by the compression systems, and their section must be sufficient to have a suitable mechanical strength and a surface of support of the acceptable seal.

On the contrary, if space is available on the side of the protected area (ZP) (this is particularly the case of sidings, traffic corridors, sections between two buildings, the list of examples of uses being non-exhaustive ), the rigid side elements against back support are secured to the bearing surfaces by junction plates (flush mounting or projecting). The upper horizontal bar secured to the upper part of the vertical fabric is supported over all or part of its length by supports type "strut" taken on the horizontal surface side protected area (ZP). These supports are secured in their lower part either to the system (to the canvas or to the structure as appropriate) or to the horizontal bearing surface (usually the ground).

The advantage of such an assembly is to be able to create barriers by using long-length canvases in one piece with a horizontal section of high acceptable bar.

The low horizontal bar serving as a support for the rigid elements of low backing is secured punctually and at regular intervals to the horizontal surface by removable supports to withstand the compressive forces and to avoid excessive deformation thereof. It is secured or not to the vertical surfaces and may be made of discontinuous elements joined together.

The whole structure is positioned on the side of the canvas edge, protected area side (ZP) or flooded area (ZI) depending on the situation.

A fifth case concerns non-rectilinear protections. This allows, for example, with a fabric with several vertical rectangular sections, to ensure the protection of one or more openings on a facade (s) leaving a corridor between them and the canvas. The list of uses is not exhaustive.

The principle of the structure remains identical to the previous system except that the high horizontal bar is no longer rectilinear because being secured directly to the top of the vertical fabric here composed of several non-aligned rectangular sections. The high bar therefore follows the shape of the fabric and is supported over all or part of its length by supports of "strut" type taken on the horizontal surface side protected area (ZP) and secured in their lower part to the system. (to the canvas or the structure depending on the case) or to the horizontal bearing surface (usually the ground). The low horizontal bar follows the shape of the bottom edge of the fabric and its intermediate supports secured to the ground are placed at regular intervals and / or at the junction areas of the different vertical rectangular sections of canvas.

A sixth case concerns protections (rectilinear or not) of great length installed on grounds whose surface is weak (lawn type or asphalt road).

Since the compression forces of the lower edge can not be significant because of the low resistance to tearing of the intermediate bar support brackets, the low edge of the fabric is in this case of a significant depth and it is the efforts of vertical thrust due to the height of the water which compresses it on the ground (it can be equipped or not with a seal). The low bar and its intermediate supports follow the periphery of the low edge and are placed on it slightly recessed relative to the end. The low compression system is used in this case to keep the edge on the ground and block the profile placed in its sleeve at the edge end, thus preventing any movement of the fabric. The ground fasteners of these intermediate bar supports can be, for greater strength, screw-type anchoring and they undergo essentially only shear forces. The upper horizontal bar is supported over all or part of its length by "strut-type" supports (taken up on the horizontal surface on the protected area side (ZP) and secured at their lower part to the system) and its ends are secured to the vertical surfaces delimiting the area (directly or via the structure). The bottom edge and the structural system are always placed on the flooded zone (ZI) side.

A seventh case concerns barriers forming a pen.

In this case, it is possible to design a set of barriers with at least three non-aligned vertical rectangular sections that can form a closed enclosure (beginning and end of the joining barrier). In this case the fabric comprises only a low edge and the high horizontal bar secured to the top of the fabric is supported on its periphery by the supports type "strut" taken on the horizontal surface side protected area (ZP) (to inside the enclosure). The whole structure is positioned on the side of the canvas edge, protected area side (ZP) or flooded area (ZI) depending on the situation.

An eighth case concerns curved systems.

In this case, it is absolutely possible to make portions or complete systems of rounded or curved shape protection (circular or ovoid enclosures, semi-circular zones, the list being non-exhaustive), a curve that can be considered as constituting a succession of small rectangular sections. In this case, the high and low bars, the rigid elements of low back support as well as the rigid mobile support elements, are designed to follow and adapt to the desired curved shape of canvas.

By the design of the device according to the subject invention, it is possible to implement protections for almost all situations, including non-rectilinear protections in one piece, making this device a versatile system.

Due to the design of the device according to the invention, it is possible thanks to the compressive forces that can be obtained over the entire periphery of the fabric edge, and by using a sufficiently malleable and thick seal, to be able to seal on irregular surfaces and / or not perfectly flat (brick, plaster, worn borders ...).

Due to the design of the device according to the invention, the forces generated by the thrust of the water on the fabric being taken up by the tubular structure, they do not significantly stress the peripheral sealing material which keeps optimal efficiency whatever the length to protect and the height of water.

By virtue of the design of the device according to the subject invention, maintaining the fabric in a vertical position by means of the tubular structure makes it possible to limit the deformations of the fabric without requiring a large floor area to withstand the thrust forces of the water. , thus making it possible to make compact protections that can be placed in shallow frames.

Due to the design of the device according to the invention, the introduction of the latter does not require sealing profiles to be attached to all or part of the periphery of the section to be protected (to maintain a system in place or attach a canvas edge to the surfaces).

Due to the design of the device according to the invention (removable structure and flexible fabric that is folded), the volumes to be stored during periods of non-use are much less important than existing systems of the rigid panel type, especially in case large and numerous sections to protect.

By the design of the device according to the invention, the volumes to be inflated, when using pneumatic or hydraulic side compression systems, are independent of the length of the section to be protected.

Due to the design of the device according to the invention (fabric in one piece), the areas to be sealed being limited to the periphery of the section to be protected, they are relatively small and therefore the risk of leakage are less likely ( especially for large sections often protected by stackable leaf panels).

By the design of the device according to the subject invention, it is possible to achieve protections of significant dimensions with a low implementation time and competitive manufacturing costs.

By the design of the device according to the subject invention, it is possible to easily make prints on the canvas (text, acronyms, images ...) that can serve as a communication medium or to improve the aesthetics.

Brief description of the figures

• Les figures 1a -1e schématisent différentes vues en plan d'un dispositif d'étanchéité mis en place au niveau d'une ouverture, avec les efforts de compression appliqués sur le bord de la toile ;
• La figure 2 illustre un mode de réalisation de la toile du dispositif d'étanchéité ;
• Les figures 3a - 3c illustrent trois variantes d'un système de compression de type à expansion ;
• La figure 3d illustre un système de compression de type mécanique ;
• Les figures 4a - 4d illustrent une variante d'un élément rigide de contre-appui ;
• La figure 5 illustre une autre variante du dispositif d'étanchéité ;
• Les figures 6a - 6c illustrent une autre variante d'élément rigide de contre-appui ;
• Les figures 7a - 7f illustrent une autre variante de dispositif d'étanchéité conçu pour être fixé à la face avant de l'ouverture ;
• Les figures 8a - 8c illustrent une autre variante du dispositif d'étanchéité ;
• La figure 9 illustre une autre variante du dispositif d'étanchéité assurant l'étanchéité entre la toile et la face externe de l'ouverture ;
• La figure 10 illustre une autre variante du dispositif d'étanchéité conçu pour des grandes longueurs rectilignes ;
• La figure 11 illustre une autre variante de dispositif d'étanchéité conçu pour des grandes longueurs non rectilignes ;
• La figure 12 illustre une autre variante du dispositif d'étanchéité conçu pour des grandes longueurs avec une surface au sol plus ou moins meuble.

The features and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description of preferred embodiments based on figures, among which:

• The Figures 1a -1e schematically different plan views of a sealing device set up at an opening, with the compressive forces applied to the edge of the fabric;
• The figure 2 illustrates an embodiment of the fabric of the sealing device;
• The Figures 3a - 3c illustrate three variants of an expansion type compression system;
• The figure 3d illustrates a mechanical type compression system;
• The Figures 4a - 4d illustrate a variant of a rigid counter-support element;
• The figure 5 illustrates another variant of the sealing device;
• The Figures 6a - 6c illustrate another variant of a rigid counter-support element;
• The Figures 7a - 7f illustrate another alternative sealing device adapted to be attached to the front face of the opening;
• The Figures 8a - 8c illustrate another variant of the sealing device;
• The figure 9 illustrates another variant of the sealing device ensuring the seal between the fabric and the outer face of the opening;
• The figure 10 illustrates another variant of the sealing device designed for long rectilinear lengths;
• The figure 11 illustrates another variant of a sealing device designed for non-rectilinear long lengths;
• The figure 12 illustrates another variant of the sealing device designed for long lengths with a more or less loose floor surface.

detailed description

In the remainder of the description, the same references are used to designate the same characteristics or their equivalents, according to the different embodiments of the sealing device according to the invention.

On the Figures 1a and 1b , showing a schematic diagram in front and top views, the fabric 1 is composed of a single rectangular section with a three-sided edge 2 on which the forces F must be exerted to be able to ensure the peripheral sealing. On the variant of the figure 1c , showing a schematic diagram in front view, the fabric 1 is composed of a single rectangular section with a four-sided edge 2 on which the forces F must be exerted to be able to ensure the peripheral sealing. These forces F are exerted on mobile rigid support elements 8.

On the Figures 1d and 1e , showing a schematic diagram in front and top views, the fabric 1 is composed of a single rectangular section with an edge 2 with three sides. The tubular structure comprises a high horizontal bar 4a fixed along the upper side of the fabric 1. The tubular structure also comprises a horizontal low bar 4b, junction plates 5, rigid elements of counter-support 6, and movable rigid elements 8. A peripheral sealing system 3 is disposed between the edge 2 of the fabric 1 and the surfaces SH, SV of the opening. Also represented are the forces F to be exerted by the compression systems to be able to ensure the tightness at the periphery of the fabric 1.

On the figure 2 , the fabric 1 is composed of a single rectangular section with a three-sided edge 2, equipped with its outer peripheral sealing system 3 and sleeves for blocking profiles 9. It may be possible to use when using fabric 1 very flexible for the manufacture of the edge 2, to position the peripheral sealing system 3 on the inner side thereof, or even to do without it.

On the figure 3a , the compression system, for exerting the forces F, is pneumatic expansion type 7a with manual inflation by bulb, for example of the type "straightener bodywork sheet".

On the figure 3b , the compression system is of pneumatic expansion type 7a with inflation via a valve, for example of the type "airbag lifting" (manual inflation, compressor or compressed gas cartridge).

On the figure 3c , the compression system is hydraulic expansion type 7b consists of a flexible bag with quick connection to the water supply and air purge plug.

On the figure 3d , the compression system is of mechanical type by screw 7c, connected to the rigid element of against support 6 by welded nuts 17. The rigid element 6 being composed here of a sheet.

The Figures 4a and 4b represent an example of a design of a lateral rigid counter-support element 6 for hydraulic expansion type 7b and / or pneumatic expansion compression systems 7a. It consists in this case of a sheet and at the same time serves as support for the high horizontal bar 4a (not shown on these Figures 4a and 4b ). It is secured to the surfaces by means of fixing plates 5 which slide in slide tubes TG which are fixed to the sheet. The assembly can be blocked by pins 11, for example. The low horizontal bar 4b is assembled at its ends to the fixing plates 5, as shown in FIG. figure 4b .

On the Figures 4c and 4d , the rigid element against lateral support 6 is designed for compression systems of the mechanical type 7c (clamp-type slide clamp in the specific case). In this case, it consists of a tube which makes it possible to fix these compression systems and it is secured to the surfaces by means of fixing plates 5 which slide in TG slide tubes fixed to the tube. Rigid connecting elements 10 serve as support for the high horizontal bar 4a. The assembly can be blocked by pins 11, for example. The low horizontal bar 4b is assembled at its ends to the fixing plates 5.

On the figure 5 , the sealing device is designed to provide rectilinear protection for low part of small and medium size openings. The compression of the edge 2 of fabric 1 on the surfaces SH, SV is done here with mechanical compression systems 7c. The sealing device comprises a fabric 1 composed of a rectangular section with a two-sided edge 2, a high horizontal bar 4a, a horizontal low bar 4b, rigid elements of lateral counter-support 6 secured to the surfaces by plates junction 5, two rigid elements 10 connecting the high horizontal bar 4a and profiles placed in ducts 9 on the fabric 1. A seal 3 is placed on the outer sides of the edge 2. The rigid elements of counter-support 6 are integral with the low horizontal bar 4b.

On the Figures 6a, 6b and 6c , the rigid counter-support element 6 is in the form of a plate on which a low horizontal bar 4b and an additional horizontal bar 4c are mounted, thanks to two welded slide tubes TG, in order to form a rigid frame. Depending on the height of water to be supported by the device according to the subject invention, the number of additional bars 4c can be increased and the rigid support against element 6 and the vertical edges of fabric 2, modified accordingly. The horizontal bars 4b and 4c are spread over the height of the sealing device according to the pressures exerted by the water. On the figure 6b , the rigid support member 6 receives an additional horizontal bar 4c, and abuts on a lug 13 welded to this additional horizontal bar 4c. This lug 13 prevents the translation inwards of the rigid element of against support 6. On the Figure 6c , the rigid element against lateral support 6 serves as a support for the high horizontal bar 4a. Compression systems of the mechanical type 7c (clamp-type slide clamp in the specific case) are taken up on the low horizontal bar 4b and compress the lower part of the edge 2 of the fabric 1.

The Figures 7a to 7f represent a sealing device providing a rectilinear protection for the lower part of small and medium-sized openings intended to be placed in the frames.

On the figure 7a , the sealing device comprises a fabric 1 with a rectangular section with a three-sided edge 2, and is equipped with an additional horizontal bar structure 4c for forming a rigid frame with the low horizontal bar 4b and the rigid elements This rigid frame is secured to the facade of the opening by the ends of the horizontal bars 4b and 4c additional low, thanks to a projecting mounting. Also shown are a lateral compression system of pneumatic expansion type 7a or hydraulic 7b, a mechanical type compression system 7c with screws for the bottom, rigid supporting elements 8, the horizontal high bar 4a connected to the side upper web 1, and profiles 9 reinforcements placed in the ends of the end of the edge 2 of the fabric 1.

On the figure 7b , the rigid frame is formed with the additional horizontal bars 4c and 4b low, and the rigid side of counter-support 6. This rigid frame is provided in this case to receive mechanical compression systems 7c of the type of slide clamp joint for the bottom and the sides (not shown) and it is secured to the front of the opening by the end of its bars through a mounting projecting. Additional compression systems (not shown) may be attached at the bottom and oriented TG slide tubes to compress at the corners of the opening frame. The high horizontal bar 4a is secured to the rigid frame by rigid connecting elements 10.

The Figure 7c , representing a view from above of the figure 7b shows the principle of placement of the horizontal bars 4b and 4c and 4a high horizontal bar, compared to a frame with carpentry 12, for example.

On the figure 7d , representing a side view of the figure 7b , the rigid frame is equipped here with its flexible web 1 with its edge 2. A peripheral sealing system 3 is positioned between the edge 2 and the movable rigid support element 8. Profiles 9 are placed in sleeves in end of the edge 2 of the fabric 1.

The figure 7e shows the principle of a mechanical compression system 7c slide clamp type, secured here to the low horizontal bar 4b and resting on a movable rigid support element 8. A profile 9 is placed in a sleeve in edge end 2 and the movable rigid support element 8 may comprise stops 14, placed on one side or the other of the mechanical compression system 7c, according to the orientation of the device sealing. This assembly makes it possible to reinforce the blocking of the flexible fabric 1 and its edge 2. As the lower bar 4b is secured to the support surfaces SV and / or SH, any displacement is avoided.

The figure 7f represents a view of the figure 7a with lateral pneumatic compression 7a or hydraulic 7b compression systems, positioned and compressing the sides of the edge 2 of the fabric 1 and the sealing system 3. The compression system of the bottom edge is not shown.

The figure 8a represents a sealing device providing a rectilinear protection for the lower part of small and medium-sized openings intended to be placed in the frames, an access to the structure being possible on the side of the protected area (ZP). It comprises a fabric 1 to a rectangular section 1 with a two-sided edge 2 and is equipped with a structure with an additional horizontal bar 4c making it possible to form a rigid frame with the low horizontal bar 4b and the rigid counter-support elements 6. This rigid frame is positioned in the frame of the opening and is secured thereto by at least the ends of the low horizontal bar 4b. Also shown are compression systems of the mechanical type 7c by screws for the bottom and the sides (slide clamps in the specific case), the horizontal high bar 4a which in this case can bear against the front of the door. opening, and profiles 9 and / or tubes placed in sheaths at the edge end 2 of the fabric 1. The movable rigid support elements 8 are not shown.

The figure 8b represents an example of a front view of the rigid frame illustrated in FIG. figure 8a . This rigid frame is formed with the additional horizontal bars 4c and 4b low, and with the rigid side elements of against-support 6. This rigid frame is provided in this case to receive mechanical compression systems 7c, type of slide greenhouse -joint, for the bottom and the sides. This rigid frame is secured to the frame of the opening by the ends of its low horizontal bar 4b. The high horizontal bar 4a is secured to the frame by rigid connecting elements 10. The ends of the additional bar 4c are equipped here with turntables with thread 18 to center the frame.

On the figure 8c , representing a side view of the figure 8b , the rigid frame is equipped with its flexible fabric 1 with its edge 2. Note also the presence of the system sealing device 3, and that of profiles 9 placed in sleeves at the edge end 2 of the fabric 1.

The figure 9 represents a variant of a sealing device providing rectilinear protection for the lower part of small and medium-sized openings, intended to be placed on the facade if space is available. Compression systems are mechanical 7c here by screw. The rigid frame formed by the additional horizontal bar 4c, the low horizontal bar 4b and the rigid lateral counter-support elements 6, is secured thanks to the junction plates 5, taking care to leave a space between the latter and the facade for the mounting of the compression systems and the edge 2 of the flexible fabric 1. The rigid mobile support elements 8 and the mechanical compression systems 7c are oriented accordingly. The high horizontal bar 4a is supported on the facade (that this high horizontal bar 4a is secured to the rigid frame or not), and the profiles 9, mounted in end-end sleeves 2, are retained for blocking.

The figure 10 represents a sealing device providing rectilinear protection for the lower part of openings of great length (with available space on the protected area side). The rigid lateral support elements 6 are secured to the surfaces by junction plates 5. The upper horizontal bar 4a, secured to the upper part of the vertical section of fabric 1, is supported over all or part of its length by supports 15, of the "strut" type, resumed on the horizontal surface, ZP protected area side, and secured to the system or floor in their lower part. The ends of the upper bar 4a are here secured to the connecting plates by connecting elements 10. The horizontal low bar 4b serving as a support for the rigid elements of against low support 6, is secured punctually and at regular intervals to the horizontal surface by removable supports 16. The entire structure is positioned on the side of the canvas edge and, in this case, the flooded zone side ZI.

The figure 11 represents a partial example (the structure is not shown in full) non-rectilinear sealing device providing protection for low part of openings of great length. The principle of the structure remains identical to that of the figure 10 except that the upper horizontal bar 4a is no longer rectilinear but follows the shape of the fabric 1, and the low horizontal bar 4b follows the shape of the lower edge 2 of the fabric 1. The intermediate supports 16, secured to the ground, are placed at regular intervals and / or level of the junction areas of the different vertical rectangular sections of the fabric 1. These low horizontal bars 4b and 4a high can be made of discontinuous elements joined together. The tubular structure is positioned on the side of the edge 2 of the fabric 1 and, in this case, the ZP protected area side.

The figure 12 represents a sealing device providing a protection of great length, installed on grounds whose surface is not very resistant (lawn type or asphalt road). The bottom edge 2 of the fabric 1 is in this case of considerable depth and is equipped with a gasket or not. The low horizontal bar 4b and its intermediate supports 16 follow the periphery of this low edge 2. The mechanical compression system 7c at the bottom and the rigid mobile support elements 8 serve to keep the edge 2 on the ground and block it with the profiles 9 placed in sleeves. The upper horizontal bar 4a is supported along its length by supports 15, type "strut", taken on the horizontal surface ZP side protected area, and secured to the fabric 1 in their lower part. The bottom edge 2 and the tubular structure are always placed on the side of the flooded zone ZI.

The foregoing detailed description of embodiments of the sealing device of the invention is not limiting in nature. On the contrary, it aims to remove any imprecision as to its scope. Thus, many variants may be considered in the context of the invention, particularly as to the compression means of the edge 2 of the fabric 1 on the surface of the opening, implemented on the tubular structure.

Claims (13)

Sealing device for sealing at least the lower part of an opening or area delimited by a ground surface and two vertical surfaces, the device comprising a watertight web (1) provided at its periphery with an edge (2), and a tubular structure comprising compression means (4b, 4c, 5, 6, 7a, 7b, 7c, 8, 16, 18) configured to crush said edge (2) on said surfaces so as to maintain the sealing fabric vis-à-vis the opening, characterized in that the tubular structure further comprises an upper horizontal bar (4a) which extends along the length of the fabric, said upper horizontal bar being fixed at the top of the canvas over all or part of its length and allowing the fabric to withstand the thrust forces of the water. Device according to claim 1, wherein the upper horizontal bar (4a) is fixed to the compression means by means of rigid or flexible connecting elements (6, 10). Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the compression means comprise a low horizontal bar (4b), junction plates (5) for fixing said bar to the opening, rigid elements of against support ( 6) subject to the horizontal low bar (4b) or the joining plates (5), rigid mobile support elements (8) configured to bear on the edge (2) of the fabric (1), and a system compression device (7a, 7b, 7c) configured to bear against the rigid elements against against support (6) and against the horizontal bar (4b), and to compress the rigid mobile support elements (8) against the edge ( 2). Device according to claim 3, wherein the compression system (7c) is mechanical forecourt. Device according to claim 3, wherein the compression system is of pneumatic expansion type (7a) or hydraulic (7b). Device according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the compression means further comprises an additional horizontal bar (4c), junction plates (5, 18) for fixing said bar to the opening, the rigid elements against-support (6) being also subject to this bar (4c). Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, which comprises a peripheral sealing system (3) arranged between the edge (2) of the fabric (1) and the surfaces of the opening. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the tubular structure further comprises vertical reinforcements and / or horizontal (9) secured to the fabric (1). Device according to claim 8, wherein the vertical and / or horizontal reinforcements (9) are implemented by profiles placed in sleeves. Device according to claim 9, wherein the profiles placed in sleeves (9) are positioned at the periphery of the edge (2) of the fabric (1) bearing against the compression means. Apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein supports (15) are configured to maintain the upper horizontal bar (4a) at regular intervals over its entire length, the supports being placed on the ground surface on the the protected area (ZP) and secured in their lower part to the device or the ground. Device according to claim 11, attached to claim 3, wherein removable supports (16) are secured to the low horizontal bar (4b) at regular intervals and / or at junction areas of different rectangular sections of the fabric ( 1). Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least one horizontal bar (4a, 4b, 4c) is implemented by means of several elements joined together.

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