EP3622135B1 - Containment airlock comprising an articulated, collapsible self-supporting frame - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The invention relates to the field of containment locks, in particular to intervention locks on a site liable to exhibit radiological, asbestos, biological and / or chemical contamination. The containment airlock is rigid and self-supporting.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

There are containment airlocks to intervene on nuclear sites with a rigid frame. These containment locks are used in particular during targeted interventions on a nuclear installation, such as a reactor or a workshop of a fuel cycle installation, to ensure containment during one-off operations presenting a risk of material dissemination. radioactive. These interventions are, for example, inspection, maintenance, dismantling, packaging or transfer of contaminated equipment.

The rigid frame is formed by metal tubes nested to each other. It is covered with a sealed envelope against radioactive dust. This envelope is generally made from sheets of vinyl material which are fixed to the frame and to each other by adhesive.

The installation of the containment chamber and its sanitation and then its dismantling following the intervention are often not easy and therefore time consuming. They therefore expose operators for longer to a risk of contamination. This results in drawbacks in terms of safety, cost and duration of intervention which can prove to be significant on the whole of a site.

Furthermore, the quality of the confinement provided by these known envelopes can be greatly improved, due in particular to the detachment of the adhesives. Periodic airlock restoration actions take place.

Finally, generally, the existing containment airlocks include the rigid frame of the airlock which must therefore be decontaminated to be reused and not be considered as waste, this operation being able to be delicate and tedious.

WO 2014/019022 discloses a containment chamber known from the state of the art. WO 2014/019022 discloses a containment airlock comprising a self-supporting frame, the frame being articulated to be unfoldable between a folded storage position and a deployed intervention position, a flexible containment envelope which is configured to be assembled to the frame in a removable manner, the frame comprising rigid reinforcing rods and a first collapsible frame which includes vertices of the frame and articulated reinforcing rods which connect the vertices of the first frame together, the articulated reinforcing rods each include a first rigid segment, a second rigid segment and at least one intermediate hinge connecting the first segment to the second segment, the first frame being configured so that the segments of the hinged reinforcing rods approach the rigid reinforcing rods as the frame moves from its deployed position to its position folded, and so that the segments of the articulated reinforcing rods move away from the rigid reinforcing rods when the frame moves from its folded position to its deployed position.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The invention aims to at least partially resolve the problems encountered in the solutions of the prior art.

In this regard, the subject of the invention is a containment lock, in particular an intervention lock on a site liable to exhibit radiological, asbestos, biological and / or chemical contamination.

One of the desired goals is to have rapidly deployable and removable airlocks.

Another aim is also to have locks of standardized dimensions which can be easily assembled to each other when a larger containment zone is required to carry out the intervention.

Yet another object of the invention is to limit the attachments by adhesives.

Finally, an object of the invention is also to limit, or even avoid subjecting the supporting structure of the airlock to the risk of contamination induced by the operations which take place outside the airlock, or preferably inside the airlock. airlock.

Thus, the containment airlock comprises a self-supporting frame and a flexible containment envelope. The frame is articulated so that it can be unfolded between a folded storage position and a deployed intervention position. The flexible containment envelope is configured to be assembled to the frame in a removable manner.

According to the invention, the frame comprises a first foldable frame, a second foldable frame, and rigid and one-piece reinforcing rods which connect the first frame to the second frame.

The first frame and the second frame each include frame vertices and articulated reinforcing rods that connect the vertices of the first frame between them and the vertices of the second frame between them. The articulated reinforcing rods each comprise a first rigid segment, a second rigid segment and at least one intermediate joint connecting the first segment to the second segment.

The rigid, one-piece rebar rods connect the vertices of the first frame to the vertices of the second frame. The first frame and the second frame are located at opposite longitudinal ends of the rigid, one-piece reinforcing rods.

The first frame and the second frame are configured so that the segments of the hinged reinforcing rods move closer to the rigid reinforcing rods as the frame moves from its deployed position to its stowed position, and the segments of the reinforcing rods articulated move away from the rigid frame rods as the frame moves from its stowed position to its deployed position.

The installation of the containment chamber and the dismantling of the containment chamber according to the invention are faster and easier, while allowing relative modularity in the shape and size of the confinement zone formed. The containment chamber thus reduces the exposure of an operator to a risk of radiological, asbestos, chemical and / or biological contamination. The airlock of confirm also has a very satisfactory mechanical resistance, while being fast and easy to install and to dismantle.

The invention may optionally include one or more of the following features combined or not.

Advantageously, the intermediate articulation of each articulated reinforcing rod is configured to achieve and guide the rotation of a first segment of the reinforcing rod relative to a second segment of the reinforcing rod, towards the interior of the frame. when the frame moves from its deployed position to its stowed position or out of the frame when the frame moves from its stowed position to its deployed position.

Preferably, the intermediate joint is configured to perform and guide the rotation of the first segment according to a pivot connection.

According to a particular embodiment, the intermediate articulation of each articulated reinforcing rod is located substantially in the middle of the reinforcing rod.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the intermediate articulation of at least one of the articulated reinforcing rods comprises a locking member configured to lock the position of a first segment of the reinforcing rod relative to the position of a second segment of the reinforcing rod.

Preferably, the intermediate articulation comprises a yoke and the locking member comprises a latch which is movable relative to the yoke between a locking position and an unlocking position of the joint.

According to another particular embodiment, the frame comprises vertices, the articulated reinforcing rods connecting the vertices. At least one of the vertices is configured to achieve and guide the rotation of the first segment of a first reinforcing rod relative to this vertex, towards the interior of the frame when the frame passes from its deployed position to its folded position or towards the interior. 'outside the frame when the frame moves from its folded position to its deployed position.

Preferably, this vertex is configured to produce and guide the rotation of the first segment according to a pivot connection, in particular in a vertical plane.

Advantageously, at least of the vertices comprises a housing for partially accommodating the first segment, the housing being at least partially delimited by walls which are configured to rotate the first segment relative to this vertex, when the frame passes from its deployed position to its stowed position or from its stowed position to its deployed position.

According to one particularity of embodiment, at least one of the vertices comprises an internal end piece configured to engage by form cooperation at least one segment of a reinforcing rod which is connected to this vertex.

According to another particularity of embodiment, at least one of the vertices comprises at least a first side wall, a second side wall, a horizontal wall and an internal wall. The first side wall, the second side wall and the horizontal wall are two by two orthogonal and intersecting with each other. The inner wall extends perpendicular to the horizontal wall. The side walls each have a substantially triangular outer surface.

The inner wall includes a first segment which extends parallel to the first side wall and a second segment which extends parallel to the second side wall. The first segment and the second segment each have a substantially triangular exterior surface.

The internal wall, in particular the first segment, defines with the first side wall a first internal housing for an articulated reinforcing rod segment. The internal wall, in particular the second segment, defines with the second side wall a second internal housing for a segment of an articulated reinforcing rod. The internal wall defines jointly with the side walls a central duct for one of the rigid and one-piece reinforcing rods.

According to an advantageous embodiment, at least one of the vertices is connected to a segment of a second articulated reinforcing rod. This apex is configured to allow rotation and guide the segment of the second rod relative to this apex, bringing it closer to the first segment of the first rod when the frame moves from its deployed position to its folded position or away from the first. segment of the first rod when the frame moves from its folded position to its deployed position.

Preferably, at least one of the vertices is also connected to a third reinforcing rod while being rigidly secured to the third reinforcing rod when the frame passes from its folded position to its deployed position or from its deployed position to its folded position. .

Advantageously, the first frame is a horizontal support frame, the second frame is a horizontal ridge frame, the rigid and one-piece reinforcing rods are uprights of the frame.

Preferably, the uprights are in particular vertical uprights which are orthogonal to the first frame and to the second frame.

Advantageously, each intermediate articulation of the articulated reinforcing rods of the second frame comprises a locking member which is configured to lock the position of a first segment of the rebar relative to the position of a second segment of the rebar.

Preferably, the articulated reinforcements of the first frame are devoid of locking members.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the containment lock has a general parallelepipedal shape, at least when the frame is in the deployed position.

Preferably, the containment lock has a general parallelepipedal shape when the frame is in the folded position.

Advantageously, the casing is configured to be assembled to the chassis so that the chassis is outside the casing.

According to another particular embodiment, the flexible envelope is made in one piece by welded plastic panels.

Advantageously, the envelope is made of a dust-proof material.

Preferably, the plastic material comprises crosslinked polyurethane and / or a vinyl polymer, such as polyvinyl chloride.

Advantageously, the airlock comprises hooks for detachably attaching the envelope to the frame.

Preferably, the flexible casing comprises eyelets, preferably plastic, to which the hooks are connected.

According to a particular embodiment, the containment airlock is equipped with depressurization means configured to create a depression inside the airlock relative to the air pressure outside the airlock.

Preferably, these depressurization means are used at the end of the operation when the flexible casing is contaminated, to suck the air contained in the casing in order to reduce its volume and make it more compact for disposal. This operation is then carried out without direct intervention by the operators on the casing, avoiding decontamination, dismantling and folding of this casing by the operators, which thus limits the risks of contamination for the operators and their intervention time.

Preferably, the depressurization means comprise an extraction fan, a filter and / or connection sleeves.

The invention also relates to a containment assembly comprising a plurality of containment airlocks as defined above which are juxtaposed and connected to one another to form a containment zone. This confinement zone can be used with regard to radiological, asbestos, biological and / or chemical contamination

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

• la figure 1 est une représentation schématique partielle en perspective d'un sas de confinement, selon un premier mode de réalisation préférée ;
• la figure 2 est une représentation schématique partielle en perspective du châssis du sas de confinement, en position déployée ;
• la figure 3 est une représentation schématique partielle en perspective du châssis du sas de confinement dans une position intermédiaire entre sa position repliée et sa position déployée ;
• la figure 4 est une représentation schématique partielle en perspective du châssis du sas de confinement en position repliée ;
• la figure 5 est une représentation schématique partielle en perspective d'une articulation intermédiaire du châssis, en position de déverrouillage ;
• la figure 6 est une représentation schématique partielle en perspective de l'articulation intermédiaire, en position de verrouillage ;
• la figure 7 est une représentation schématique partielle d'un sommet du châssis du sas de confinement ;
• la figure 8 représente un ensemble de confinement comprenant deux sas de confinement juxtaposés, selon un premier mode de réalisation ;
• la figure 9 représente un ensemble de confinement comprenant quatre sas de confinement juxtaposés, selon un deuxième mode de réalisation.

The present invention will be better understood on reading the description of exemplary embodiments, given purely as an indication and in no way limiting, with reference to the appended drawings in which:

• the figure 1 is a partial schematic representation in perspective of a containment lock, according to a first preferred embodiment;
• the figure 2 is a partial schematic representation in perspective of the frame of the containment lock, in the deployed position;
• the figure 3 is a partial schematic representation in perspective of the frame of the containment lock in an intermediate position between its folded position and its deployed position;
• the figure 4 is a partial schematic representation in perspective of the frame of the containment lock in the folded position;
• the figure 5 is a partial schematic representation in perspective of an intermediate articulation of the chassis, in the unlocked position;
• the figure 6 is a partial schematic representation in perspective of the intermediate joint, in the locked position;
• the figure 7 is a partial schematic representation of a top of the containment lock frame;
• the figure 8 shows a containment assembly comprising two juxtaposed containment locks, according to a first embodiment;
• the figure 9 shows a containment assembly comprising four juxtaposed containment locks, according to a second embodiment.

DETAILED PRESENTATION OF PARTICULAR EMBODIMENTS

The figure 1 represents a containment airlock 1. The containment airlock 1 is a containment airlock to intervene on a site liable to present radiological, asbestos, biological or chemical contamination. It is, for example, used during targeted interventions on a nuclear installation, reactor or workshop of a fuel cycle installation in particular, to ensure containment during one-off operations presenting a risk of dissemination of radioactive material. These interventions are, for example, inspection, maintenance, dismantling, packaging or transfer of contaminated equipment.

The confined areas typically include an undressing area and a work area, as well as optionally a material entry-exit area.

The containment lock 1 comprises a frame 3, a flexible casing 5 and means for depressurizing the containment lock 1 (not shown). The containment airlock 1 is collapsible, which facilitates its transport, its installation and its uninstallation, and its storage. It has a generally rectangular parallelepipedal shape when deployed and ready for use on a site susceptible to contamination. It also has a general rectangular parallelepiped shape when folded.

The containment lock 1 extends from bottom to top along a longitudinal axis X-X which is an axis of symmetry of the containment lock. It also extends from front to back along a Y-Y depth axis and from left to right along a Z-Z transverse axis. The longitudinal axis X-X, the depth axis Y-Y and the transverse axis Z-Z together form an orthonormal coordinate system.

The envelope 5 comprises a flexible canvas 50 and fasteners 56 for attaching the flexible canvas 50 to the frame 3. The envelope 5 is foldable between a deployed position which corresponds to the deployed position of the airlock, which is visible at the bottom. figure 1 , and a folded storage position which corresponds to the folded position of the containment lock 1, which is visible at figure 4 . It is designed to either remain attached to the frame 3 when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its folded position, or be detached from the frame 3 after use, in particular if it is contaminated.

The flexible fabric 50 has a general rectangular parallelepiped shape. It is intended to be attached to the frame 3, inside the frame 3. This arrangement has the particular advantage of facilitated dismantling from the outside of the lock 1, thus limiting the risk of exposure for the operators carrying out the dismantling.

The flexible fabric 50 is made in one piece by flexible panels 52 and welded by plastic welding. It comprises at least one opening 51, made in one of the panels 52, for allowing a person or material to enter and / or leave the containment chamber 1.

The panels 52 are made of a material suitable for the hazardous environment, generally of plastic material, particularly dust-proof. This plastic material comprises, for example, crosslinked polyurethane or a vinyl polymer, such as polyvinyl chloride.

The flexible canvas 50 is made so as to be able to install there, for example by cutting the canvas using a tool, conduits between the inside and the outside of the containment chamber 1. These conduits make it possible to position the means. depressurization which will ensure depressurization of the airlock or to introduce the electrical cables necessary to supply tools for the intervention inside the containment airlock 1.

The clips 56 each include a hook 57 and a hook retaining eyelet 55. Each hook 57 is configured to assemble the flexible canvas 50 to the frame 3 in a removable manner. The eyelet 55, the role of which is to prevent tearing of the flexible fabric, is preferably made of plastic.

The means for depressurizing the containment airlock 1 (not shown) are configured to create a depression inside the airlock 1 relative to the air pressure around the airlock 1, to limit leaks and therefore the dispersion of contaminating materials. .

They include an air suction pump inside the airlock, a filter and connecting ducts. The air suction pump is fluidly connected to a filter, so that the filter can filter any radioactive or other dust that may be present in the containment chamber 1.

After intervention and after all the openings of the casing 5 have been closed and the hooks 57 have been detached from the frame 3, the depressurization means also have the function of sucking the air contained in the flexible casing. 5 to reduce its volume, compact it and treat it as waste.

Frame 3 is described with reference to figures 2 to 4 . It comprises vertices 6, articulated reinforcing rods 7 and one-piece reinforcing rods 9. The articulated reinforcing rods 7 and the rigid one-piece rods 9 mechanically connect the vertices 6 to one another.

The frame 3 comprises four lower articulated reinforcement rods 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d which interconnect four lower vertices 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d. It includes four upper articulated reinforcement rods 7th, 7f, 7g, 7h which connect together four upper vertices 6th, 6f, 6g, 6h. It comprises four one-piece rods 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d which interconnect the lower vertices 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d and the upper vertices 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h respectively.

The articulated reinforcing rods 7 are of identical two-by-two structure. The one-piece reinforcing rods 9 are of identical two-by-two structure. The vertices 6 are of identical two-by-two structure.

The articulated reinforcing rods 7, the one-piece reinforcing rods 9 and the tops 6 form a rigid frame when the frame 3 is in the deployed intervention position. In other words, the frame 3 is self-supporting.

The frame 3 is able to carry the envelope 5. It is articulated so as to be unfoldable between a folded storage position and a deployed intervention position. The frame 3 has a general rectangular parallelepiped shape which is shown on figure 2 , when it is in the deployed position. It has a general rectangular parallelepipedal shape which is represented at the figure 4 , when it is in the folded position.

The frame 3 comprises a first foldable lower frame 32, a second foldable upper frame 34, and the rigid and one-piece reinforcing rods 9 which connect the first frame 32 to the second frame 34. The frames 32 and 34 are of identical geometry for a rectangular parallelepiped frame.

The first lower frame 32 comprises the four lower articulated frame rods 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d which interconnect the four lower vertices 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d. The first lower frame 32 is a horizontal support frame for the chassis 3. It has the shape of a rectangle or a square in the deployed position. The lower vertices 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d form a square of smaller dimension in the folded position.

The first lower articulated reinforcement rod 7a extends from the first lower apex 6a to the second lower apex 6b. The second lower articulated reinforcement rod 7b extends from the second lower apex 6b to the third lower apex 6c. The third lower articulated reinforcement rod 7c extends from the third lower apex 6c to the fourth lower apex 6d. The fourth lower articulated reinforcement rod 7d extends from the fourth lower vertex 6d to the first lower vertex 6a.

The second upper frame 34 comprises the four upper articulated reinforcing rods 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h which interconnect the four upper vertices 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h. The second upper frame 34 is a horizontal ridge frame for the chassis 3. It has the shape of a rectangle or a square in the deployed position. The upper vertices 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h form a square of smaller dimension in the folded position.

The first upper articulated reinforcing rod 7th extends from the first upper vertex 6e to the second upper vertex 6f. The second upper articulated reinforcement rod 7f extends from the second upper vertex 6f to the third upper vertex 6g. The third upper articulated reinforcement rod 7g extends from the third upper vertex 6g to the fourth upper vertex 6h. The fourth upper articulated reinforcement rod 7h extends from the fourth upper vertex 6h to the first upper vertex 6e.

The rigid and monobloc reinforcing rods 9 form vertical uprights for the frame. The first post 9a extends from the first lower vertex 6a to the first upper summit 6th. The second upright 9b extends from the second lower vertex 6b to the second upper vertex 6f. The third upright 9c extends from the third lower vertex 6c to the third upper vertex 6g. The fourth post 9d extends from the fourth lower vertex 6d to the second upper vertex 6h.

With reference to the figure 1 , the articulated reinforcing rods 7 each comprise a first segment 72, a second segment 74 and an intermediate joint 8. In figure 2 , the intermediate articulations 8 are referenced from a to h according to the articulated reinforcing rod 7 of which they form part. On the figure 3 , the first segments 72 are referenced from a to h along the articulated rod 7 of which they form part. The second segments 74 are referenced from a to h according to the articulated reinforcing rod 7 of which they form part.

The first segment 72 and the second segment 74 of each articulated reinforcing rod 7 each take the form of a hollow tube made of metallic material, typically steel. This hollow tube has a circular cross section in the embodiment shown. The first segment 72 and the second segment 74 are rigid. The first segment 72 and the second segment 74 are each connected to a different vertex 6.

The intermediate articulation 8 mechanically connects the first segment 72 and the second segment 74 of the articulated reinforcement rod 7. This intermediate articulation 8 is located substantially in the middle of the articulated reinforcement rod 7. It comprises a yoke 80 and a locking member 82.

It is configured to achieve and guide the rotation of the first segment 72 and of the second segment 74 towards the interior of the frame 3 in a vertical plane, when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its folded position. It is in particular configured to bring the first segment 72 closer to the second segment 74, when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its folded position.

It is also configured to achieve and guide the rotation of the first segment 72 and of the second segment 74 outwardly of the frame 3 in the vertical plane, when the frame 3 passes from its folded position to its deployed position. She is in particular configured to move the first segment 72 away from the second segment 74, when the frame 3 passes from its folded position to its deployed position.

With reference to figures 5 and 6 , the yoke 80 comprises a first receiving end piece 81 and a second receiving end piece 83 which is located at one end of the yoke 80 opposite that of the first end piece 81.

The yoke 80 is configured to achieve and guide the rotation of the first segment 72 relative to the second segment 74 according to a pivot connection. It guides them so that the first segment 72 and the second segment 74 form a “V” of variable opening when the frame is folded up. It is designed to guide the articulated reinforcing rod 7 in the plane of one of the side faces of the frame 3.

The yoke 80 is configured to point towards the middle of the uprights 9 in the direction of the height X-X when the frame 3 folds up. It is configured to approach the corresponding vertices in the Y-Y transverse direction and / or the Z-Z depth direction, by bringing the vertices closer together.

The first receiving end piece 81 is intended to house a longitudinal end of the first segment 72 of the articulated rod. It is intended to be fixed to the first segment 72. The second end piece 83 is intended to house a longitudinal end of the second segment 74 of the articulated rod. It is intended to be attached to the second segment 74.

The locking member 82 comprises a latch 84 which is movable relative to the yoke 80 between a locking position of the joint 8 and an unlocking position of the joint 8. The locking member 82 is configured to lock the joint. relative position of the first segment 72 relative to that of the second segment 74.

The unlocking position of the joint 8 is shown on figure 5 . In the unlocked position, the latch 84 is raised relative to the body of the yoke 80. The first segment 72 is movable in rotation relative to the second segment 74 according to a pivot connection.

The locking position of the joint 8 is shown on figure 6 . In the locked position, the latch 84 is folded against the body of the yoke 80. The first segment 72 is immobilized relative to the second segment 74.

With reference to the figure 7 , each top 6 comprises a first side wall 61, a second side wall 63, a horizontal wall 65 and an internal wall 67. The walls 61, 63, 65 and 67 form a single wall of the top 6.

The side walls 61, 63 and the horizontal wall 65 are two by two orthogonal and intersecting with each other. The side walls 61, 63 form side faces of the top 6. The side walls 61, 63 each have a substantially triangular outer surface. The horizontal wall 65 of an upper vertex 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h forms an upper ridge wall of the vertex 6. The horizontal wall 65 of a lower vertex 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d forms a lower wall supporting the vertex. 6. The horizontal wall 65 has a substantially triangular outer surface.

The internal wall 67 extends perpendicular to the horizontal wall 65. It comprises a first segment 67a which extends parallel to the first side wall 61 and a second segment 67b which extends parallel to the second side wall 63. The first segment 67a and second segment 67b each have a substantially triangular outer surface.

The internal wall 67 defines with the first side wall 61 a first internal housing 62. The internal wall 67 defines, with the second side wall 63, a second internal housing 64. It also defines together with the side walls 61, 63 a central duct 66 which extends substantially vertically.

The first internal housing 62 forms a laterally open cavity to the outside of the apex 6. It is oriented in the plane formed by the direction of the height X-X and one of the transverse direction Z-Z or the direction of the depth Y-Y. It is configured such that its walls guide one of the segments 72, 74 of a first rod, which is connected to the top 6, during its rotation between its deployed position and its folded position. The triangular outer surface of the first segment 67a and that of the first side wall 61 also make it possible to stiffen the corner connection of the articulated reinforcing rod 7 at this apex 6.

The first internal housing 62 of one of the lower vertices 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d is configured such that its walls guide the segment 72, 74 of one of the rods lower articulated frame during its upward rotation when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its folded position.

With reference for example to the first lower apex 6a, the walls of its first internal housing 62 cause the first segment 72a of the first articulated reinforcing rod 7a to pivot upwards, when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its folded position. .

The first internal housing 62 of one of the upper vertices 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h is configured such that its walls guide the segment 72, 74 of one of the upper articulated rods during its downward rotation when the frame 3 changes from its deployed position to its stowed position.

With reference for example to the first upper vertex 6e, the walls of its first internal housing 62 cause the first segment 72e of the first upper articulated reinforcing rod 7th to pivot downwards, when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its position. folded.

The second internal housing 64 forms a cavity open laterally on the outside of the apex 6. It is oriented in the plane formed by the direction of the height X-X and one of the transverse direction Z-Z or the direction of the depth Y-Y. It is configured such that its walls guide one of the segments 72, 74 of a second rod, which is connected to the top 6, during its rotation between its deployed position and its folded position. The triangular outer surface of the second segment 67b and that of the second side wall 63 also make it possible to stiffen the corner connection of the articulated reinforcing rod 7 at this apex 6.

The second internal housing 64 of one of the lower vertices 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d is configured such that its walls guide the segment 72, 74 of one of the lower articulated rods during its upward rotation when the frame 3 changes from its deployed position to its stowed position.

With reference for example to the first vertex 6a, the walls of its second internal housing 64 cause the second segment 74d of the fourth articulated reinforcing rod 7d to pivot upwards, when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its folded position. The second segment 74d of the fourth articulated armature rod 7d then approaches the first segment 72a of the first articulated armature rod 7a.

The second internal housing 64 of one of the upper vertices 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h is configured such that its walls guide the segment 72, 74 of one of the upper articulated rods during its downward rotation when the frame 3 changes from its deployed position to its stowed position.

With reference for example to the first upper vertex 6e, the walls of its second internal housing 64 cause the second segment 74h of the fourth upper articulated reinforcing rod 7h to pivot downwards, when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its position. folded.

The central duct 66 comprises an internal end piece configured to connect one of the uprights 9 to the top 6 by form cooperation, by fixing this upright 9 to the corresponding top 6. The central duct 66 accommodates one of the uprights 9, so that it is rigidly secured to the top 6, when the frame 3 passes from its deployed position to its folded position and vice versa.

Top 6 also includes positioning indicators 68 for mechanically connecting each of the hinged reinforcing rods 7 to top 6 with correct positioning. The positioning indicators 68 are located at the horizontal wall 65.

The passage of the containment chamber 1 from its folded storage position to its deployed intervention position is now described with reference to figures 1 to 4 .

The intermediate joints 8 are unlocked.

The lower articulated rods 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d are each unfolded downwards, that is to say towards the outside of the frame 3, by pivoting their first segment 72 relative to their second segment 74 with respect to their articulation 8. Each first segment 72 pivots relative to the lower apex 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d to which it is connected. Each second segment 74 also pivots relative to the lower apex 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d to which it is connected. In other words, the lower frame 32 is unfolded downwards. The amounts 9 and the vertices 6 remain fixed.

The upper articulated rods 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h are each unfolded upwards, that is to say towards the outside of the frame 3, by pivoting their first segment 72 relative to their second segment 74 with respect to their articulation 8. Each first segment 72 pivots relative to the upper vertex 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h to which it is connected. Each second segment 74 also pivots relative to the upper vertex 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h to which it is connected. In other words, the upper frame 34 is unfolded upwards. The amounts 9 and the vertices 6 remain fixed.

The downward deployment of the lower rods 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d and the upward deployment of the upper rods 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h take place in particular by moving the uprights 9 away in translation from each other, which causes the unfolding of the articulated rods 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d 7th, 7f, 7g, 7h.

The intermediate joints 8 are again locked when the frame is in its deployed intervention position which is shown in figure 2 .

The envelope 5 is attached to the frame 3 by the clips 56. The depressurization means are installed on the containment airlock 1.

The passage of the containment lock 1 from its deployed position to its folded position, corresponding to the dismantling phase, is now described with reference to figures 1 to 4 .

In the event that the flexible envelope 5 has been contaminated during the operation, the following operations are carried out. First of all, the opening 51 is closed, just like all the possible openings which had been created for the intervention, in particular for the passages of cables or conduits. The hooks 57 are detached from the frame 3 and the depressurization means are actuated so as to suck the air contained in the flexible envelope 5 to reduce its volume, to compact it while maintaining confinement, before treating it as waste.

If the flexible casing 5 was not contaminated during the operation, it remains attached to the frame 3 by means of the clips 56.

In both cases, whether or not the frame 3 carries the flexible casing 5, the following operations are carried out to fold the airlock.

The joints 8 of the articulated reinforcing rods 7 are unlocked by lifting their latch 84.

The lower articulated reinforcing rods 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d are each folded upwards, that is to say towards the inside of the frame 3, by pivoting their first segment 72 relative to their second segment 74 by relative to their articulation 8. Each first segment 72 pivots relative to the lower apex 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d to which it is connected. Each second segment 74 also pivots relative to the lower apex 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d to which it is connected. In other words, the lower frame 32 is folded upwards. The amounts 9 and the vertices 6 remain fixed.

The upper articulated reinforcing rods 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h are each folded down, that is to say towards the inside of the frame 3, by pivoting their first segment 72 relative to their second segment 74 by relative to their articulation 8. Each first segment 72 pivots relative to the upper vertex 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h to which it is connected. Each second segment 74 also pivots relative to the upper vertex 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h to which it is connected. In other words, the upper frame 34 is folded down. The amounts 9 and the vertices 6 remain fixed.

The upward folding of the lower rods 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d and the downward deployment of the upper rods 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h take place in particular by bringing the uprights 9 together in translation.

The intermediate joints 8 are again locked when the frame is in its folded storage position which is shown on figure 4 .

With reference to the figure 4 , the lower vertices 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d have come together to form a square. They are in contact with each other or at least at a short distance from each other. The uprights 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d have also moved closer to each other, remaining parallel to each other. The lower articulated rods 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d are folded by having moved closer to the uprights 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d. They continue to connect the lower vertices 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d between them.

The upper vertices 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h have moved closer together to form a square. They are in contact with each other or at least at a short distance from each other. The upper articulated rods 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h are bent by being close to the uprights 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d. They continue to connect the upper vertices 6e, 6f, 6g, 6h between them.

The figure 8 shows a first containment assembly 2 which comprises a plurality of containment locks 1a, 1b. These containment locks 1a, 1b are juxtaposed and connected to one another to form a containment zone 2a. The containment airlock has dimensions that are twice as large as the containment airlock 1b. For example, the airlock 1b can constitute an undressing zone for the operators, after the intervention which would have been carried out in the zone of the airlock.

The figure 9 shows a first containment assembly 2 which comprises a plurality of containment airlocks 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d juxtaposed and linked together to form a confinement zone 2a of greater extent. The containment locks 1a and 1c have dimensions that are twice as large as the containment locks 1b and 1d.

The advantage of such an assembly of several standard containment airlocks 1 to each other is to have quickly, thanks to the rapid assembly of the airlock 1, a much larger intervention area, with the possibility of opening certain walls 52 between two airlock by cutting and to ensure the sealing of the interior of the airlock 1 vis-à-vis the outside of the airlock 1.

The frame 3 facilitates the installation of the containment chamber 1 and its dismantling. The installation and dismantling time of the containment chamber 1 is reduced. It is of the order of 5 to 10 minutes for installation, whereas the installation of an airlock of known structure is typically of the order of 3 to 7 hours depending on the volume of the airlock. Likewise, the time for dismantling the containment chamber 1 is faster.

The containment lock 1 also allows flexibility in the shape and size of the containment zone 2a formed by one or more containment lock 1 of identical or different sizes but standardized, which can be assembled to each other.

The one-piece flexible canvas 50 provides better protection against contamination. In general, the containment chamber 1 allows, given the speed with which it can be disassembled, reduce the exposure of operators to the risk of contamination.

Of course, various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art to the invention which has just been described without departing from the scope of the description of the invention.

The number of articulated reinforcing rods 7, of rigid and monobloc rods 9 and of tops 6 is variable. In particular, the containment chamber 1 may have a shape other than a rectangular parallelepiped shape, for example a prismatic shape.

According to an alternative embodiment (not shown), at least some of the vertices 6 are connected to more than three reinforcing rods 7, 9.

Further, the hinged frames 32, 34 may be side hinged frames rather than horizontal hinged frames. In this case, the monobloc rods 9 extend for example in the transverse direction Z-Z or in the direction of the depth Y-Y rather than in the direction of the height X-X.

The shape and structure of the articulated rods 7 and of the one-piece rods 9 may vary. In particular, at least some of the articulated rods 7 and of the one-piece rods may be formed of solid bars or of solid bar segments.

As a variant and depending on the field of use of the containment lock 1, the length of the segments 72, 74 and the desired rigidity of the frame 3, the segments 72, 74 can also be made of carbon or fiberglass.

In particular, the position and the number of joints 8 of each rod is variable. For example, some rods 7 may have at least two joints and at least three segments. At least some of the joints 8 may allow a ball joint between segments.

According to a particular embodiment (not shown), only the articulated reinforcing rods 7 of the upper frame 34 are equipped with a locking member 82.

The shape and structure of the vertices 6 is also variable. In particular, at least one of the vertices 6 is configured to provide a ball-and-socket type connection to at least one of the segments 72, 74. The vertices 6 can also include parts that are movable between them or be in one piece.

The flexible canvas 50 may also include a door, made of a panel 52 of the same material as the canvas welded in the upper part and positioned to be superimposed on the opening 51.

According to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the flexible canvas 50 also comprises one or more cuffs making it possible to achieve tight connections between the inside and the outside of the containment chamber 1. These cuffs can thus make it possible to position, for example. , the depressurization means which will ensure the depressurization of the airlock or to introduce the electric cables necessary to supply tools for the intervention inside the airlock, or to introduce materials while maintaining the confinement.

Claims (15)

1. Containment airlock (1), particularly an airlock for working on a site on which radiological, asbestos, biological and/or chemical contamination may occur, comprising:

   a self-supporting frame (3), the frame (3) being articulated so that it is expandable from a collapsed storage position and an extended work position,

   a flexible containment shell (5) that is configured to be removably assembled to the frame (3),

   wherein the frame (3) comprises a first collapsible plane frame (32), a second collapsible plane frame (34), and rigid single-piece reinforcing rods (9) that connect the first plane frame (32) to the second plane frame (34).

   the first plane frame (32) and the second plane frame (34) each containing vertices (6) of the frame and articulated reinforcing rods (7) that connect the vertices (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) of the first plane frame (32) to each other and the vertices (6e, 6f, 6g, 6h) of the second plane frame (34) to each other, each of the articulated reinforcing rods (7) comprising a first rigid segment (72), a second rigid segment (74) and at least one intermediate articulation (8) connecting the first segment (72) to the second segment (74),

   the rigid single-piece reinforcing rods (9) connecting the vertices (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) of the first plane frame (32) to the vertices (6e, 6f, 6g, 6h) of the second plane frame (34), the first plane frame (32) and the second plane frame (34) being located at opposite longitudinal ends of the rigid single-piece reinforcing rods (9),

   the first plane frame (32) and the second plane frame (34) being configured such that segments (72, 74) of the articulated reinforcing rods (7) move towards the rigid reinforcing rods (9) when the frame (3) moves from its extended position to its collapsed position, and such that segments (72, 74) of the articulated reinforcing rods (7) move away from the rigid reinforcing rods (9) when the frame (3) moves from its collapsed position to its extended position.
2. Containment airlock (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the intermediate articulation (8) of each articulated reinforcing rod (7) is configured to rotate and to guide a first segment (72) of the reinforcing rod relative to a second segment (74) of the reinforcing rod, towards the inside of the frame (3) when the frame (3) moves from its extended position to its collapsed position, or towards the outside of the frame (3) when the frame (3) moves from its collapsed position to its extended position, preferably about a pivot link.
3. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate articulation (8) of each articulated reinforcing rod (7) is located approximately in the middle of the articulated reinforcing rod.
4. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate articulation (8) of at least one of the articulated reinforcing rods (7) comprises a locking element (82) configured to lock the position of a first segment (72) of the reinforcing rod relative to the position of a second segment (74) of the reinforcing rod,
   the intermediate articulation (8) preferably comprising a clevis (80) and the locking element (82) preferably comprising a latch (84) that is free to move relative to the clevis (80) between a locked position and an unlocked position of the articulation (8).
5. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the vertices (6a) is configured to rotate and to guide the first segment (72) of a first reinforcing rod (7a) relative to this vertex (6a), towards the inside of the frame (3) when the frame (3) moves from its extended position to its collapsed position, or towards the outside of the frame (3) when the frame (3) moves from its collapsed position to its extended position, preferably about a pivot link.
6. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the vertices (6a) comprises a housing (62, 64) to partially house the first segment (72, 74) of an articulation rod (7), the housing (62, 64) being at least partially delimited by walls configured to make the first segment (72, 74) pivot relative to this vertex (6a), when the frame (3) moves from its extended position to its collapsed position, or from its collapsed position to its extended position.
7. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the vertices (6a) comprises an internal end piece configured to engage at least one segment (72, 74) of a reinforcing rod connected to this vertex (6a), by cooperation of shapes.
8. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the vertices (6a) comprises at least one first side wall (61), a second side wall (63), a horizontal wall (65) and an internal wall (67),
   the first side wall (61), the second side wall (63) and the horizontal wall (65) being orthogonal in pairs and intersecting each other, the internal wall (67) extending perpendicular to the horizontal wall (65),
   each of the side walls (61, 63) having an approximately triangular external surface,
   the internal wall (67) comprising a first segment (67a) that extends parallel to the first lateral wall (61) and a second segment (67b) that extends parallel to the second lateral wall (63), each of the first segment (67a) and the second segment (67b) having an approximately triangular external surface,
   the internal wall (67) and the first side wall (61) delimiting a first internal housing (62) for a segment (72, 74) of articulated reinforcing rod, the internal wall (67) and the second side wall (63) delimiting a second internal housing (64) for a segment (72, 74) of articulated reinforcing rod, the internal wall (67) and the side walls (61, 63) delimiting a central conduit (66) for one of the rigid single-piece reinforcing rods (9).
9. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first plane frame (32) is a horizontal plane support frame, the second plane frame (34) being a horizontal plane top frame, the rigid single-piece reinforcing rods (9) being the uprights of the frame (3).
10. Containment airlock (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the containment airlock (1) is generally parallelepiped in shape, at least when the frame (3) is in the extended position,
    the containment airlock (1) preferably being generally parallelepiped in shape when the frame (3) is in the collapsed position.
11. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shell (5) is configured to be assembled to the frame (3) such that the frame (3) is outside the shell (5).
12. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shell (5) is made of a dust tight material,
    the shell (5) preferably being made of a single-piece by welded plastic panels (52), the plastic material preferably comprising cross-linked polyurethane and/or a vinyl polymer, such as polyvinyl chloride.
13. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising hooks (57) to removably attach the shell (5) to the frame (3).
14. Containment airlock (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising depressurisation means configured to create a vacuum inside the airlock (1), relative to the air pressure outside the airlock (1).
15. Containment assembly (2) comprising a plurality of containment airlocks (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any one of the preceding claims that are adjacent to each other and connected together, to form a containment zone, particular to protect against radiological, asbestos, biological and/or chemical contamination.

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