EP3380780B1 - Multifunctional valve for a gas vessel - Google Patents

Multifunctional valve for a gas vessel Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3380780B1
EP3380780B1 EP16794523.7A EP16794523A EP3380780B1 EP 3380780 B1 EP3380780 B1 EP 3380780B1 EP 16794523 A EP16794523 A EP 16794523A EP 3380780 B1 EP3380780 B1 EP 3380780B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
valve
flange
gas
gas container
function
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP16794523.7A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3380780A1 (en
Inventor
Harald Vetter
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of EP3380780A1 publication Critical patent/EP3380780A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3380780B1 publication Critical patent/EP3380780B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C3/00—Vessels not under pressure
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/05—Size
    • F17C2201/058—Size portable (<30 l)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0311—Closure means
    • F17C2205/0317—Closure means fusing or melting
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0323—Valves
    • F17C2205/0329—Valves manually actuated
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0382—Constructional details of valves, regulators
    • F17C2205/0385—Constructional details of valves, regulators in blocks or units
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0388—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters
    • F17C2205/0394—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters in direct contact with the pressure vessel
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2209/00—Vessel construction, in particular methods of manufacturing
    • F17C2209/22—Assembling processes
    • F17C2209/228—Assembling processes by screws, bolts or rivets
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/03—Mixtures
    • F17C2221/032—Hydrocarbons
    • F17C2221/035—Propane butane, e.g. LPG, GPL
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/01—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
    • F17C2223/0146—Two-phase
    • F17C2223/0153—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
    • F17C2223/033—Small pressure, e.g. for liquefied gas
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2225/00—Handled fluid after transfer, i.e. state of fluid after transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2225/04—Handled fluid after transfer, i.e. state of fluid after transfer from the vessel characterised by other properties of handled fluid after transfer
    • F17C2225/042—Localisation of the filling point
    • F17C2225/043—Localisation of the filling point in the gas
    • F17C2225/045—Localisation of the filling point in the gas with a dip tube
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
    • F17C2250/04—Indicating or measuring of parameters as input values
    • F17C2250/0404—Parameters indicated or measured
    • F17C2250/0408—Level of content in the vessel
    • F17C2250/0413—Level of content in the vessel with floats
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2260/00—Purposes of gas storage and gas handling
    • F17C2260/01—Improving mechanical properties or manufacturing
    • F17C2260/013—Reducing manufacturing time or effort
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2260/00—Purposes of gas storage and gas handling
    • F17C2260/04—Reducing risks and environmental impact
    • F17C2260/042—Reducing risk of explosion
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/07—Applications for household use
    • F17C2270/0745—Gas bottles

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a multifunction valve for a gas container.
  • the gas container can be a gas cylinder or a gas tank, which can be of any size.
  • Widely used gas cylinders have a filling weight of approx. 11 or approx. 14 kg liquid gas, which can be propane, butane or a propane / butane mixture, without the invention being restricted thereto.
  • a gas bottle of the type under consideration is a term on the market under the designation "tank bottle” and is usually provided with a filling stop valve, a normal extraction valve and a filling level indicator.
  • the filling stop valve which is usually set in such a way that it closes during a gas filling process, when the gas container is 80 percent full, and the level indicator are provided with floats in order to be able to fulfill their function.
  • the three fittings are individually attached to the gas container by being screwed into a flange at the head end of the gas container. Their position and arrangement is determined so that the two swimmers can move freely.
  • a gas cylinder If a gas cylinder is handled in a mobile manner, it must not be refueled by the user himself, but this is only permitted by a qualified staff at a gas filling station or the gas dealer. As a rule, there are no technical problems here.
  • the gas bottle if the gas bottle is stuck is installed, for example in a mobile home, one speaks of a gas tank that can be refueled by the owner himself. For this purpose, the gas tank is then arranged in the vehicle in such a way that it is accessible and can be filled via the tank connection on the outside of the vehicle.
  • the position and angular position of the individual fittings are fixed, but they can be adjusted with the help of suitable tools. In practice, however, it happens again and again that one or more positions of the fittings are changed by the user for whatever reason. This in itself impermissible change in the position of the fittings can result in one or both floats being locked so that they no longer fulfill their function as a result of the loss of their free mobility. This can have the consequence that the filling stop valve no longer closes, so that the gas tank is overfilled, which can lead to dangerous overpressure. If the float of the level indicator is blocked, the necessary refueling can be omitted, for example.
  • the WO 2015/140094 A1 discloses a multi-function valve with the features of the preamble of claim 1.
  • This multi-function valve does not contain a safety valve so that the gas container can be extremely dangerous for its surroundings in the event of a fire, since it can explode as a result of the action of heat.
  • the DE 3904824 A1 discloses a level indicator for liquid containers the components of which are attached to a flange. A fill valve and a discharge valve are not provided on the flange of the content indicator.
  • the U.S. 4,510,964 A discloses a valve for a gas container which includes a closing mechanism which interrupts the flow of the outflowing gas when the gas flow exceeds a predetermined value.
  • a safety valve which extends to the side and which is opened when the mechanism closes so that the gas pressure does not exceed a permissible value.
  • This vertical arrangement of the safety valve in front of the closing valve gives the known valve a considerable overall height.
  • the safety valve is not as an independent valve alongside the filling stop valve, the extraction valve and the level indicator attached to a common flange
  • the present invention is based on the object of specifying a solution to this problem.
  • the invention provides that the body for accommodating the filling stop valve, the removal valve and the level indicator including the flange with which the valve is to be connected to the gas cylinder, is made of one cast, so that the positions of these three fittings are immovable.
  • the valve unit is attached to a counter flange of the gas container, preferably at its head end, properly mounted.
  • the three fittings are connected to the gas container in such a way that their position and rotational position cannot be changed without being destroyed.
  • the fitting unit that is to say the so-called multifunctional valve, preferably consists of a brass alloy, the flange for receiving the fitting unit preferably consists of the base material of the gas container.
  • the flange can be screwed tightly onto the gas container, preferably onto the head section of the gas container.
  • the flange preferably has a projection on its underside which engages with no play or with little play in a recess in the wall of the gas container, the flange containing a support surface for the gas container radially outside this projection.
  • the projection is preferably circular, but can also be oval or polygonal, for example.
  • the support surface is flat if the associated counter surface of the gas container is also flat. However, the two surfaces that belong together can also be curved.
  • through-bores for screws are preferably formed, which can be screwed into non-continuous threaded holes of the gas container.
  • the invention further proposes that at least one annular groove is formed in the bearing surface of the flange, in which a sealing ring (or sealing rings) is arranged.
  • the multifunction valve also contains a safety valve, the gas outlet opening of which runs essentially at right angles to the plane of the flange.
  • the invention provides, according to a further proposal, that the multi-function valve can have at least one sealing device which melts when a critical temperature is exceeded so that all of the gas can flow out of the gas container.
  • This optional training also contributes to the safety when using a gas container.
  • the sealing ring (or the sealing rings) consists of a fusible sealing material either in the bearing surface of the flange or in the associated outer wall of the gas container.
  • Another possibility is to make the sealing element of the safety valve from a fusible, suitable and permissible material so that the safety valve can no longer close.
  • the sealing element can, for example, be a disk preferably 2mm thick, but it can also function in the form of a cylinder or a sphere.
  • the temperature at which the particular material melts is preferably between 100 ° C. and 200 ° C., preferably between 120 ° C. and 180 ° C. A temperature of approx. 150 ° C. appears particularly suitable.
  • the multifunctional valve according to the invention not only significantly increases the safety of the gas container, but is also associated with lower assembly costs.
  • Figure 1 shows a circular flange 1 on which the components of the multifunction valve 23 are fixedly attached so that their mutual position cannot be changed.
  • the components include a withdrawal valve 2, which contains a handle 3, by rotating a piston 4 with a sealing plug 5 can be moved vertically in order to open or close the outlet opening for the gas in the open position.
  • An extraction hose for the gas is screwed onto a pipe socket 6 of the extraction valve.
  • a filling stop valve 7 is also attached to the underside of the flange 1, to which a float 8 is articulated in order to close the filling stop valve at a predetermined filling level, preferably at 80% filling.
  • An inlet pipe stub 9 is located on the upper side of the flange 1. The supplied liquid gas flows through a plastic pipe 10 into the interior of the gas container 22 as long as the filling stop valve 7 enables filling.
  • a level indicator tube 11 with a pivotable float 12 is also attached to the underside of the flange 1, through which the respective level of the gas in the gas container is displayed in a level indicator 13 by means of an indicator needle 14.
  • This level indicator is in the perspective view of Figure 1 covered by the extraction valve 2 and thus not visible.
  • a safety valve 15 is attached to the flange 1, the sealing washer 16 of which is pressed tightly against the gas outlet opening by a spring 17 via a spring holder 21, as long as there is not a predetermined overpressure in the gas container at which the safety valve 15 opens.
  • the gas outlet is in Figure 1 directed vertically upwards.
  • the multifunctional body 18 formed in this way is a block made of one piece with the individual fittings and is screwed onto a gas container 22.
  • a circular projection is formed on the underside of the flange 1, which engages in a sleeve 24 of the gas container 22, with a radially outside of the projection flat, annular bearing surface of the sleeve 24 for the flange 1 is formed.
  • At least one annular groove for a sealing ring 19 is formed in this support surface, wherein the annular groove can also be provided in the support surface of the sleeve 24 instead.
  • the flange of the multifunctional body has through bores 20 on its edge for screws which engage in not completely through bores with threads of the sleeve 24 of the gas container 22.
  • the multi-function valve 23 is provided with a sealing device which melts when a critical temperature is exceeded so that all of the gas can flow out of the gas container.
  • the sealing ring 19 can consist of the fusible material.
  • the sealing element, shown here in the form of a sealing washer 16, and / or the spring retainer 21 of the safety valve 15 can consist entirely or partially of meltable material.
  • the fusible material can be a suitable plastic such as PT 1000, a suitable metal or, for example, a composite material composed of different materials.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Multifunktionsventil für einen Gasbehälter. Bei dem Gasbehälter kann es sich um eine Gasflasche oder einen Gastank handeln, die eine beliebige Größe haben können. Weitverbreitete Gasflaschen haben ein Füllgewicht von ca. 11 bzw. ca. 14 kg Flüssiggas, bei dem es sich um Propan, Butan oder ein Propan/Butan-Gemisch handeln kann, ohne dass die Erfindung hierauf beschränkt ist.The invention relates to a multifunction valve for a gas container. The gas container can be a gas cylinder or a gas tank, which can be of any size. Widely used gas cylinders have a filling weight of approx. 11 or approx. 14 kg liquid gas, which can be propane, butane or a propane / butane mixture, without the invention being restricted thereto.

Eine Gasflasche der betrachteten Art ist unter der Bezeichnung "Tankflasche" auf dem Markt ein Begriff und üblicherweise mit einem Füllstoppventil, einem normalen Entnahmeventil und einem Füllstandanzeiger versehen. Das Füllstoppventil, das in der Regel so eingestellt ist, das es bei einem Gasfüllvorgang schließt, wenn der Gasbehälter zu 80 Prozent gefüllt ist, und der Füllstandanzeiger sind mit Schwimmern versehen, um ihre Funktion erfüllen zu können.A gas bottle of the type under consideration is a term on the market under the designation "tank bottle" and is usually provided with a filling stop valve, a normal extraction valve and a filling level indicator. The filling stop valve, which is usually set in such a way that it closes during a gas filling process, when the gas container is 80 percent full, and the level indicator are provided with floats in order to be able to fulfill their function.

Bei den bisher bekannten Gasbehältern sind die drei Armaturen einzeln an dem Gasbehälter befestigt, indem sie in einen Flansch am Kopfende des Gasbehälters eingeschraubt sind. Ihre Position und Anordnung ist so festgelegt, dass sich die beiden Schwimmer frei bewegen können.In the previously known gas containers, the three fittings are individually attached to the gas container by being screwed into a flange at the head end of the gas container. Their position and arrangement is determined so that the two swimmers can move freely.

Wenn eine Gasflasche ortsbeweglich gehandhabt wird, darf sie nicht von ihrem Benutzer selbst betankt werden, sondern dies ist nur durch ein fachkundiges Personal an einer Gastankstelle oder eben des Gashändlers zulässig. Hierbei treten in der Regel keine technischen Probleme auf. Wenn die Gasflasche hingegen fest eingebaut ist, beispielweise in ein Wohnmobil, spricht man von einem Gastank, der von seinem Inhaber selbst betankt werden darf. Hierzu ist der Gastank dann so in dem Fahrzeug angeordnet, dass er über den Tankanschluss an der Außenseite des Fahrzeugs aus zugänglich ist und befüllt werden kann.If a gas cylinder is handled in a mobile manner, it must not be refueled by the user himself, but this is only permitted by a qualified staff at a gas filling station or the gas dealer. As a rule, there are no technical problems here. On the other hand, if the gas bottle is stuck is installed, for example in a mobile home, one speaks of a gas tank that can be refueled by the owner himself. For this purpose, the gas tank is then arranged in the vehicle in such a way that it is accessible and can be filled via the tank connection on the outside of the vehicle.

Die Position und Winkellage der einzelnen Armaturen sind zwar fest eingestellt, jedoch lassen sie sich mit Hilfe geeigneter Werkzeuge verstellen. In der Praxis kommt es aber immer wieder vor, dass eine oder mehrere Positionen der Armaturen von dem Benutzer aus irgendwelchen Gründen verändert werden. Diese an sich unzulässige Veränderung der Lage der Armaturen kann zur Folge haben, dass ein Schwimmer oder beide Schwimmer arretiert werden, so dass sie in Folge des Verlustes ihrer freien Beweglichkeit ihre Funktion nicht mehr erfüllen. Dies kann zur Folge haben, dass das Füllstoppventil nicht mehr schließt, so dass der Gastank überfüllt wird, was zu einem gefährlichen Überdruck führen kann. Wenn der Schwimmer des Füllstandanzeigers blockiert ist, kann z.B. ein notwendiger Tankvorgang unterbleiben.The position and angular position of the individual fittings are fixed, but they can be adjusted with the help of suitable tools. In practice, however, it happens again and again that one or more positions of the fittings are changed by the user for whatever reason. This in itself impermissible change in the position of the fittings can result in one or both floats being locked so that they no longer fulfill their function as a result of the loss of their free mobility. This can have the consequence that the filling stop valve no longer closes, so that the gas tank is overfilled, which can lead to dangerous overpressure. If the float of the level indicator is blocked, the necessary refueling can be omitted, for example.

Die WO 2015/140094 A1 offenbart ein Multifunktionsventil mit den Merkmalen des Oberbegriffs des Patentanspruchs 1. Dieses Multifunktionsventil enthält kein Sicherheitsventil, so dass der Gasbehälter im Falle eines Brandes hochgradig gefährlich für seine Umgebung sein kann, da er infolge der Einwirkung von Hitze explodieren kann.The WO 2015/140094 A1 discloses a multi-function valve with the features of the preamble of claim 1. This multi-function valve does not contain a safety valve so that the gas container can be extremely dangerous for its surroundings in the event of a fire, since it can explode as a result of the action of heat.

Die DE 3904824 A1 offenbart einen Inhaltsanzeiger für Flüssigkeitsbehälter, dessen Bestandteile an einem Flansch angebracht sind. Ein Füllventil und ein Entnahmeventil sind nicht an dem Flansch des Inhaltsanzeigers vorgesehen.The DE 3904824 A1 discloses a level indicator for liquid containers the components of which are attached to a flange. A fill valve and a discharge valve are not provided on the flange of the content indicator.

Die US 4,510,964 A offenbart ein Ventil für einen Gasbehälter, das einen Schließmechanismus enthält, der den Strom des ausfließenden Gases dann unterbricht, wenn der Gasstrom einen vorbestimmten Wert übersteigt. In Fließrichtung vor diesem Mechanismus ist ein seitlich abgehendes Sicherheitsventil angeordnet, das infolge des Schließens des Mechanismus geöffnet wird, damit der Gasdruck einen zulässigen Wert nicht übersteigt. Durch diese vertikale Anordnung des Sicherheitsventils vor dem Schließventil erhält das vorbekannte Ventil eine erhebliche Bauhöhe. Das Sicherheitsventil ist nicht als unabhängiges Ventil neben dem Füllstoppventil, dem Entnahmeventil und dem Füllstandanzeiger an einem gemeinsamen Flansch befestigtThe U.S. 4,510,964 A discloses a valve for a gas container which includes a closing mechanism which interrupts the flow of the outflowing gas when the gas flow exceeds a predetermined value. In the direction of flow in front of this mechanism there is a safety valve which extends to the side and which is opened when the mechanism closes so that the gas pressure does not exceed a permissible value. This vertical arrangement of the safety valve in front of the closing valve gives the known valve a considerable overall height. The safety valve is not as an independent valve alongside the filling stop valve, the extraction valve and the level indicator attached to a common flange

Die oben erwähnte Manipulation der Armaturen eines Gasbehälters ist zwar ausdrücklich verboten, jedoch bisher möglich.The above-mentioned manipulation of the fittings of a gas container is expressly forbidden, but has so far been possible.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Lösung für dieses Problem anzugeben.The present invention is based on the object of specifying a solution to this problem.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch die Merkmale des Patentanspruchs 1 gelöst.According to the invention, this object is achieved by the features of claim 1.

Vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen gekennzeichnet.Advantageous embodiments of the invention are characterized in the subclaims.

Die Erfindung sieht vor, dass der Körper zur Aufnahme des Füllstoppventils, des Entnahmeventils und des Füllstandanzeigers inklusive des Flansches, mit dem das Ventil mit der Gasflasche zu verbinden ist, aus einem Guss gefertigt wird, demzufolge die Positionen dieser drei Armaturen unverrückbar feststehen. In dieser Komplexität wird die Armatureneinheit auf einen Gegenflansch des Gasbehälters, vorzugsweise an dessen Kopfende, fachgerecht montiert. Die drei Armaturen sind dadurch so mit dem Gasbehälter verbunden, dass ihre Lage und Drehposition nicht zerstörungsfrei veränderbar ist. Die Armatureneinheit, also das sogenannte Multifunktionsventil, besteht vorzugsweise aus einer Messinglegierung, der Flansch zur Aufnahme der Armatureneinheit vorzugsweise aus dem Grundwerkstoff des Gasbehälters.The invention provides that the body for accommodating the filling stop valve, the removal valve and the level indicator including the flange with which the valve is to be connected to the gas cylinder, is made of one cast, so that the positions of these three fittings are immovable. In this complexity, the valve unit is attached to a counter flange of the gas container, preferably at its head end, properly mounted. The three fittings are connected to the gas container in such a way that their position and rotational position cannot be changed without being destroyed. The fitting unit, that is to say the so-called multifunctional valve, preferably consists of a brass alloy, the flange for receiving the fitting unit preferably consists of the base material of the gas container.

In weiteren Einzelheiten wird vorgeschlagen, dass der Flansch auf den Gasbehälter, vorzugsweise auf den Kopfabschnitt des Gasbehälters, dicht aufschraubbar ist. Der Flansch hat bevorzugt an seiner Unterseite einen Vorsprung, der ohne Spiel oder mit geringem Spiel in eine Aussparung in der Wand des Gasbehälters eingreift, wobei der Flansch radial außerhalb dieses Vorsprungs eine Auflagefläche für den Gasbehälter enthält.In further details, it is proposed that the flange can be screwed tightly onto the gas container, preferably onto the head section of the gas container. The flange preferably has a projection on its underside which engages with no play or with little play in a recess in the wall of the gas container, the flange containing a support surface for the gas container radially outside this projection.

Der Vorsprung ist bevorzugt kreisförmig, kann aber beispielsweise auch oval oder vieleckig sein. Die Auflagefläche ist eben, wenn die zugehörige Gegenfläche des Gasbehälters ebenfalls eben ist. Die beiden zusammengehörenden Flächen können aber auch gekrümmt sein. An dem Rand der Auflagefläche des Flansches sind bevorzugt Durchgangsbohrungen für Schrauben ausgebildet, die in nicht durchgehende Gewindelöcher des Gasbehälters einschraubbar sind.The projection is preferably circular, but can also be oval or polygonal, for example. The support surface is flat if the associated counter surface of the gas container is also flat. However, the two surfaces that belong together can also be curved. At the edge of the bearing surface of the flange, through-bores for screws are preferably formed, which can be screwed into non-continuous threaded holes of the gas container.

Weiter schlägt die Erfindung vor, dass in der Auflagefläche des Flansches wenigstens eine Ringnut ausgebildet ist, in der ein Dichtungsring (oder Dichtungsringe) angeordnet ist.The invention further proposes that at least one annular groove is formed in the bearing surface of the flange, in which a sealing ring (or sealing rings) is arranged.

Nach einem weiteren Vorschlag der Erfindung enthält das Multifunktionsventil außerdem ein Sicherheitsventil, dessen Gasaustrittsöffnung im wesentlichen im rechten Winkel zur Ebene des Flansches verläuft.According to a further proposal of the invention, the multifunction valve also contains a safety valve, the gas outlet opening of which runs essentially at right angles to the plane of the flange.

Wenn im Bereich des Gasbehälters ein Brand ausbricht, ist der Gasbehälter hochgradig gefährlich für seine Umgebung, da er in Folge der Einwirkung von Hitze explodieren kann. Dies lässt sich auch dann nicht vollkommen ausschließen, wenn ein Sicherheitsventil angeordnet ist, da dieses das in dem Behälter befindliche Gas nicht vollkommen ausströmen lässt, sondern unterhalb des vorbestimmten kritischen Drucks, im allgemeinen 30 bar, wieder schließt. Der durch die Restmenge des Gases im Brandfall erzeugte Druck kann dann den Gasbehälter zerreißen, wenn dessen Wandung durch die einwirkende große Hitze ihre Festigkeit verloren hat. Die Explosion eines Gasbehälters z.B. in einem Wohnwagen hat verheerende Folgen.If a fire breaks out in the area of the gas container, the gas container is extremely dangerous for its surroundings, as it can explode as a result of the action of heat. This cannot be completely ruled out even if a safety valve is arranged, since this does not allow the gas in the container to flow out completely, but rather below the predetermined critical one Pressure, generally 30 bar, closes again. The pressure generated by the remaining amount of gas in the event of a fire can tear the gas container if its wall has lost its strength due to the great heat acting on it. The explosion of a gas container, for example in a caravan, has devastating consequences.

Um dies auszuschließen, sieht die Erfindung nach einem weiteren Vorschlag vor, dass das Multifunktionsventil wenigstens eine Dichtungseinrichtung aufweisen kann, die bei Überschreiten einer kritischen Temperatur schmilzt, so dass das gesamte Gas aus dem Gasbehälter ausströmen kann. Diese optionale Ausbildung trägt zusätzlich zur Sicherheit im Gebrauch eines Gasbehälters bei.In order to rule this out, the invention provides, according to a further proposal, that the multi-function valve can have at least one sealing device which melts when a critical temperature is exceeded so that all of the gas can flow out of the gas container. This optional training also contributes to the safety when using a gas container.

Diese Sicherheitsmaßnahme kann so realisiert werden, dass der Dichtungsring (bzw. die Dichtungsringe) entweder in der Auflagefläche des Flansches oder in der zugehörigen Außenwand des Gasbehälters aus einem schmelzbaren Dichtungsmaterial besteht. Eine andere Möglichkeit besteht darin, das Dichtungselement des Sicherheitsventils aus einem schmelzbaren, geeigneten und zulässigen Material auszubilden, so dass das Sicherheitsventil nicht mehr schließen kann. Das Dichtungselement kann z.B. eine Scheibe von bevorzugt 2mm Dicke sein, aber auch in Form eines Zylinders oder einer Kugel seine Funktion gewährleisten.This safety measure can be implemented in such a way that the sealing ring (or the sealing rings) consists of a fusible sealing material either in the bearing surface of the flange or in the associated outer wall of the gas container. Another possibility is to make the sealing element of the safety valve from a fusible, suitable and permissible material so that the safety valve can no longer close. The sealing element can, for example, be a disk preferably 2mm thick, but it can also function in the form of a cylinder or a sphere.

Die Temperatur, bei der das besondere Material schmilzt, liegt bevorzugt zwischen 100° C und 200° C, vorzugsweise zwischen 120° C und 180° C. Als besonders geeignet erscheint eine Temperatur von ca. 150° C.The temperature at which the particular material melts is preferably between 100 ° C. and 200 ° C., preferably between 120 ° C. and 180 ° C. A temperature of approx. 150 ° C. appears particularly suitable.

Das erfindungsgemäße Multifunktionsventil erhöht nicht nur signifikant die Sicherheit des Gasbehälters, sondern ist auch mit einem geringeren Montageaufwand verbunden.The multifunctional valve according to the invention not only significantly increases the safety of the gas container, but is also associated with lower assembly costs.

Weitere Einzelheiten der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform des Multifunktionsventils sowie anhand der Zeichnungen. Dabei zeigen:

Figur 1
eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Multifunktionsventils;
Figur 2
die einzelnen Bestandteile des Multifunktionsventils;
Figur 3
ein Multifunktionsventil im befestigten Zustand.
Further details of the invention emerge from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the multifunction valve and with reference to the drawings. Show:
Figure 1
a perspective view of a multifunction valve;
Figure 2
the individual components of the multifunction valve;
Figure 3
a multi-function valve when attached.

Figur 1 zeigt einen kreisrunden Flansch 1, an dem die Bestandteile des Multifunktionsventils 23 fest angebracht sind, so dass ihre gegenseitige Position unveränderbar ist. Zu den Bestandteilen gehört ein Entnahmeventil 2, das einen Handgriff 3 enthält, durch dessen Drehung ein Kolben 4 mit einem Dichtungsstopfen 5 vertikal bewegbar ist, um in der Öffnungsstellung die Auslassöffnung für das Gas frei zu geben oder wieder zu verschließen. Ein Entnahmeschlauch für das Gas wird an einem Rohrstutzen 6 des Entnahmeventils angeschraubt. Figure 1 shows a circular flange 1 on which the components of the multifunction valve 23 are fixedly attached so that their mutual position cannot be changed. The components include a withdrawal valve 2, which contains a handle 3, by rotating a piston 4 with a sealing plug 5 can be moved vertically in order to open or close the outlet opening for the gas in the open position. An extraction hose for the gas is screwed onto a pipe socket 6 of the extraction valve.

An dem Flansch 1 ist ferner ein Füllstoppventil 7 an dessen Unterseite angebracht, an dem ein Schwimmer 8 angelenkt ist, um das Füllstoppventil bei einem vorbestimmten Füllstand, bevorzugt bei 80% Füllung zu schließen. Ein Einlassrohrstutzen 9 befindet sich an der Oberseite des Flansches 1. Das zugeführte Flüssiggas fließt durch ein Kunststoffrohr 10 ins Innere des Gasbehälters 22, solange das Füllstoppventil 7 das Einfüllen frei gibt.A filling stop valve 7 is also attached to the underside of the flange 1, to which a float 8 is articulated in order to close the filling stop valve at a predetermined filling level, preferably at 80% filling. An inlet pipe stub 9 is located on the upper side of the flange 1. The supplied liquid gas flows through a plastic pipe 10 into the interior of the gas container 22 as long as the filling stop valve 7 enables filling.

An der Unterseite des Flansches 1 ist außerdem ein Füllstandanzeigerrohr 11 mit einem schwenkbaren Schwimmer 12 angebracht, durch den der jeweilige Füllstand des Gases in dem Gasbehälter in einem Füllstandanzeiger 13 mittels einer Anzeigenadel 14 angezeigt wird. Dieser Füllstandanzeiger ist in der perspektivischen Darstellung der Figur 1 durch das Entnahmeventil 2 abgedeckt und damit nicht sichtbar.A level indicator tube 11 with a pivotable float 12 is also attached to the underside of the flange 1, through which the respective level of the gas in the gas container is displayed in a level indicator 13 by means of an indicator needle 14. This level indicator is in the perspective view of Figure 1 covered by the extraction valve 2 and thus not visible.

Außerdem ist an dem Flansch 1 ein Sicherheitsventil 15 befestigt, dessen Dichtungsscheibe 16 von einer Feder 17 über einen Federhalter 21 dicht an die Gasauslassöffnung gepresst ist, solange nicht ein vorbestimmter Überdruck in dem Gasbehälter herrscht, bei dem das Sicherheitsventil 15 öffnet. Die Gasaustrittsöffnung ist in Figur 1 senkrecht nach oben gerichtet.In addition, a safety valve 15 is attached to the flange 1, the sealing washer 16 of which is pressed tightly against the gas outlet opening by a spring 17 via a spring holder 21, as long as there is not a predetermined overpressure in the gas container at which the safety valve 15 opens. The gas outlet is in Figure 1 directed vertically upwards.

Der so gebildete Multifunktionskörper 18 ist ein Block aus einem Guss mit den einzelnen Armaturen und wird auf einen Gasbehälter 22 aufgeschraubt. Hierzu ist an der Unterseite des Flansches 1 ein kreisförmiger Vorsprung ausgebildet, der in eine Muffe 24 des Gasbehälters 22 eingreift, wobei radial außerhalb des Vorsprungs eine ebene, ringförmige Auflagefläche der Muffe 24 für den Flansch 1 ausgebildet ist. In dieser Auflagefläche ist wenigstens eine Ringnut für einen Dichtungsring 19 ausgebildet, wobei statt dessen die Ringnut auch in der Auflagefläche der Muffe 24 vorgesehen sein kann. Der Flansch des Multifunktionskörpers hat an seinem Rand Durchgangsbohrungen 20 für Schrauben, die in nicht ganz durchgehende Bohrungen mit Gewinden der Muffe 24 des Gasbehälters 22 eingreifen.The multifunctional body 18 formed in this way is a block made of one piece with the individual fittings and is screwed onto a gas container 22. For this purpose, a circular projection is formed on the underside of the flange 1, which engages in a sleeve 24 of the gas container 22, with a radially outside of the projection flat, annular bearing surface of the sleeve 24 for the flange 1 is formed. At least one annular groove for a sealing ring 19 is formed in this support surface, wherein the annular groove can also be provided in the support surface of the sleeve 24 instead. The flange of the multifunctional body has through bores 20 on its edge for screws which engage in not completely through bores with threads of the sleeve 24 of the gas container 22.

Damit der Gasbehälter 22 im Falle eines Brandes infolge der Einwirkung von Hitze nicht explodieren kann, ist das Multifunktionsventil 23 mit einer Dichtungseinrichtung versehen, die bei Überschreiten einer kritischen Temperatur schmilzt, so dass das gesamte Gas aus dem Gasbehälter ausströmen kann. Hierzu kann der Dichtungsring 19 aus dem schmelzbaren Material bestehen. Zusätzlich oder alternativ hierzu kann das Dichtungselement, hier dargestellt in Form einer Dichtungsscheibe 16, und/oder der Federhalter 21 des Sicherheitsventils 15 ganz oder teilweise aus schmelzbarem Material bestehen. Das schmelzbare Material kann ein geeigneter Kunststoff wie PT 1000, ein geeignetes Metall oder z.B. ein aus verschiedenen Materialien zusammengesetzter Verbundwerkstoff sein.So that the gas container 22 cannot explode in the event of a fire as a result of the action of heat, the multi-function valve 23 is provided with a sealing device which melts when a critical temperature is exceeded so that all of the gas can flow out of the gas container. For this purpose, the sealing ring 19 can consist of the fusible material. In addition or as an alternative to this, the sealing element, shown here in the form of a sealing washer 16, and / or the spring retainer 21 of the safety valve 15 can consist entirely or partially of meltable material. The fusible material can be a suitable plastic such as PT 1000, a suitable metal or, for example, a composite material composed of different materials.

Claims (8)

  1. A multi-function valve for a gas container, which includes a filling stop valve (7), an outlet valve (2) and a filling level indicator (13), wherein the filling stop valve (7) and the filling level indicator (13) are provided with respective floats (8, 11) and the filling stop valve (7), the outlet valve (2) and the filling level indicator (13) are firmly fixed to a common flange (1) and constitute a multi-function body, which is fastened to the gas container (22), characterised in that the flange (1) additionally has a safety valve (15), the sealing washer (16) of which is pressed tightly by a spring (17) via a spring holder (21) against the gas outlet opening so long as a predetermined overpressure does not prevail in the gas container, at which the safety valve opens, and whose gas outlet opening extends substantially at right angles to the plane of the flange (1) and that the bodies (18) for receiving the filling stop valve (7), the outlet valve (2), the filling level indicator (13) and the safety valve (15) including the flange (1) are produced from one casting.
  2. A multi-function valve as claimed in Claim 1, characterised in that the flange (1) is sealingly fastenable to the gas container (22).
  3. A multi-function valve as claimed in one of Claims 1 or 2, characterised in that on its underside the flange (1) has a projection, which fits into a corresponding recess in a fitting (24) on the gas container (22) and that a sealing surface is formed radially outside the projection.
  4. A multi-function valve as claimed in Claim 3, characterised in that the projection is circular.
  5. A multi-function valve as claimed in Claim 3 or 4, characterised in that the sealing surface is flat and includes through bores (20) for screws.
  6. A multi-function valve as claimed in one of Claims 3 to 5, characterised in that at least one sealing ring (19) is arranged in at least one annular groove in the sealing surface.
  7. A multi-function valve as claimed in one of Claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the multi-function valve includes at least one sealing device (5, 16, 19), which melts when a critical temperature is exceeded so that all of the gas can flow out of the gas container.
  8. A multi-function valve as claimed in Claim 7, characterised in that the temperature lies in the range between 100°C and 200°C, preferably between 120°C and 180°C and most preferably at ca. 150°C.
EP16794523.7A 2015-11-27 2016-11-10 Multifunctional valve for a gas vessel Active EP3380780B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102015015412.5A DE102015015412A1 (en) 2015-11-27 2015-11-27 Multifunction valve for a gas tank
PCT/EP2016/001871 WO2017088956A1 (en) 2015-11-27 2016-11-10 Multifunctional valve for a gas vessel

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3380780A1 EP3380780A1 (en) 2018-10-03
EP3380780B1 true EP3380780B1 (en) 2021-02-24

Family

ID=57286441

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP16794523.7A Active EP3380780B1 (en) 2015-11-27 2016-11-10 Multifunctional valve for a gas vessel

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3380780B1 (en)
DE (1) DE102015015412A1 (en)
DK (1) DK3380780T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2017088956A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2540595B1 (en) * 1983-02-09 1986-04-25 Schneider Ind VALVE FOR PRESSURE LIQUEFIED GAS BOTTLE
DE3904824A1 (en) * 1989-02-17 1990-08-23 Gok Gmbh & Co Kg Content indicator for liquid gas containers
US7040343B2 (en) * 2002-11-07 2006-05-09 Grand Gas Equipment Incorporated Valve assembly with low gas level signaling and controlling function
DE202009014392U1 (en) * 2009-10-24 2010-03-25 Evag Deutschland Gmbh LPG selector
LU92405B1 (en) * 2014-03-19 2015-09-21 Luxembourg Patent Co Sa Valve for gas tank with overfill protection deviceand level gauge

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3380780A1 (en) 2018-10-03
DK3380780T3 (en) 2021-05-25
DE102015015412A1 (en) 2017-06-01
WO2017088956A1 (en) 2017-06-01

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE3018158C2 (en) Compressed air fitting
EP3218642B1 (en) Fitting for liquefied gas bottles and filling method
DE2433937A1 (en) CHECK VALVE
DE1425510B2 (en) Pressure vessels, in particular for the supply of lubricant
DE1532614A1 (en) Valve unit for a liquid container
EP3380780B1 (en) Multifunctional valve for a gas vessel
WO2007110041A1 (en) Pressurised container valve, in particular compressed air bottle valve for a compressed air respirator
EP0787099A1 (en) Device for airing a liquids container
DE2506383A1 (en) OVERFLOW PROTECTION AND LEVEL CONTROL OF A CONTAINER
DE102008027462A1 (en) Insert element for fuel tank of motor vehicle, has inner flank carried on spacer, whose one end is wider in cross-section than standard inner diameter of discharge pipe provided for gas pump nozzle
AT502472B1 (en) DEVICE FOR PRODUCING AND REMOVING LIQUID OR FOAMED FOODS
DE2521099C3 (en) Pressure supply part for liquids to be withdrawn from pressure-tight containers
EP3059478B1 (en) Device for displaying and/or controlling fluids
DE4015964C2 (en)
DE1450627A1 (en) Container for a pressurized fluid
DE61738C (en) Shut-off valve for high pressure gas containers
DE646376C (en) Disc valve for suddenly emptying fuel containers for aircraft
DE522741C (en) Transparent, swiveling measuring vessel attached to the barrel outlet for filling liquids, especially mineral oil
DE682224C (en) Bottle stop valve
DE954319C (en) Tank system for dispensing small amounts of an oil-gasoline mixture
DE203000C (en)
AT146558B (en) Device for preventing unauthorized filling of a liquid container.
DE653562C (en) Device for filling bottles u. like
DE702600C (en) Display device
DE484536C (en) Device for saturating liquids with gases, in particular carbonated water

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: UNKNOWN

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20170613

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

DAV Request for validation of the european patent (deleted)
DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20201124

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1364891

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20210315

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: GERMAN

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 502016012467

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DK

Ref legal event code: T3

Effective date: 20210519

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG9D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210524

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210624

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210525

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210524

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210624

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 502016012467

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20211125

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210624

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20211130

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20211130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20211110

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20211130

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MM01

Ref document number: 1364891

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20211110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20161110

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230523

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220630

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220630

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Payment date: 20231016

Year of fee payment: 8

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20231130

Year of fee payment: 8

Ref country code: DK

Payment date: 20231117

Year of fee payment: 8

Ref country code: CZ

Payment date: 20230929

Year of fee payment: 8

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20210224

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240112

Year of fee payment: 8