EP3851732A1 - Container for gas with display of flow rate and corresponding autonomy - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a gas container (1) equipped with a gas distribution valve (2) comprising an electronic device (3) for measuring the gas autonomy. Flow rate selection means (5) make it possible to select a desired gas flow rate. The electronic device (3) comprises a pressure sensor (31). Signal processing means (32) make it possible to determine gas autonomy from the pressure signal and the selectable gas flow rates. A selection member (9) cooperates with the signal processing means (32) to display successively on data display means (34) and in response to successive digital actuations of the user of the selection member (9), the different selectable flow values (Q) and the corresponding different autonomy (A), each flow value (Q) being displayed simultaneously with a corresponding autonomy (A). Using the gas container (1) to store or distribute gas

Description

The invention relates to a gas container, such as a gas cylinder, for storing or distributing gas, which is equipped with a gas distribution valve for delivering the gas at various user-selectable rates, and to which is mounted an electronic device for measuring gas autonomy comprising a display, such as a digital screen, to display gas flow and autonomy values.

Nursing staff working in hospital buildings, emergency units (SAMU, fire intervention services, etc.) or others, for example nurses, doctors, firefighters, etc. are regular users of pressurized gas containers, in particular gas cylinders, in particular medical gases, such as oxygen or medical air.

Such a gas container is generally equipped with a gas distribution valve usually comprising flow selection means to allow a user to choose a desired gas flow rate and a gas outlet fitting or outlet for delivering the gas to the gas. desired gas flow rate that has been selected.

Advantageously, the gas distribution valve is protected by a cowling or protective cap forming a protective shell against impacts, dirt, etc. Such gas containers are for example described by EP-A-3006810 , EP-A-2940370 , EP-A-2937620 and EP-A-29

A practical problem for users of gas cylinders or the like is that they often have to choose between several cylinders stored, for example in a depot or an intervention vehicle, depending on the patient to be treated and the prescription they need. give this patient, that is to say the gas flow rate (eg expressed in L / min) that they must administer to him for a determined duration. For example, a patient may need 2 L / min of oxygen for a period of 1 hour.

The choice of a gas cylinder to be used for treating a given patient should be made by the user so that the chosen cylinder can be used for the entire desired treatment duration and at the selected flow rate, i.e. so as to respect the prescription given to the patient to be treated.

However, the different gas cylinders do not all have the same capacity or gas content and / or the same quantity of gas rarely remains in the different gas cylinders stored in the same place.

Currently, it is known to estimate the gas autonomy of a gas container, such as a gas cylinder, that is to say to estimate the time during which the gas container can still supply gas in according to a flow rate selected by the user. The autonomy estimate is generally done by means of an electronic device comprising a pressure sensor, which is attached to the gas distribution valve fitted to the gas container and makes it possible to measure the gas pressure within the container, then to supply a pressure signal to signal processing means, such as a microprocessor, serving to calculate the autonomy of the container from the pressure signal supplied and the gas flow rate selected by the user. The calculated autonomy is then displayed by a screen or the like carried by the electronic device. This is notably described by WO-A-2005/093377 , EP-A-3440605 or EP-A-3421866 .

The display screen can be touch-sensitive as taught by EP-A-3002498 . Advantageously, the display screen is located in the high position to facilitate reading, as described by EP-A-3117136 .

However, this implies for the user, who is hesitating between several gas cylinders, to have to activate the flow selector of the valve of each bottle to select the desired flow rate and to wait for the autonomy to be displayed on the screens of display of the electronic devices of the different bottles. These operations must be repeated as many times as necessary when several flows must be evaluated. At the end, the user must remember all the information in order to choose the most suitable gas cylinder.

In some cases, the user must also do calculations because some electronic devices display a quantity of remaining gas expressed in liters for example, and this does not allow to know the duration of use without making a calculation taking into account the flow rate. prescribed gas. Now, we understand that this is tedious, a source of errors and therefore risks for patients, and can also take a lot of time for the user when he does not necessarily have it, especially when he has to intervene in emergency / quickly and / or take care of several patients at the same time.

In this context, the problem that arises is to offer a user, typically a nursing staff, to quickly and immediately know the autonomy of a gas container, typically a medical gas cylinder, equipped with a dispensing valve. and containing gas under pressure, ie compressed (ie> 1 bar), and this, for several different gas flow rates, without having to carry out any calculations and / or manipulate the gas flow selector to select the different flow rates that interest it from among the plurality of possible flow rates, that is to say all the flow rates that can be supplied by the valve fitted to the gas container.

• le robinet de distribution de gaz comprend des moyens de sélection de débit permettant à un utilisateur de sélectionner un débit de gaz souhaité parmi une pluralité de débits de gaz sélectionnables, et
• le dispositif électronique comprend :
  • ■ au moins un capteur de pression configuré pour mesurer la pression du gaz contenu dans le récipient et fournir au moins un signal de pression,
  • ■ des moyens de traitement de signal configurés pour déterminer une pluralité d'autonomies en gaz à partir au moins du signal de pression fourni par ledit au moins un capteur de pression et de la pluralité de débits de gaz sélectionnables,
  • ■ des moyens d'affichage de données configurés pour afficher une autonomie en gaz et une valeur de débit correspondante, et
  • ■ un organe de sélection à actionnement digital activable par un utilisateur,

caractérisé en ce que l'organe de sélection est configuré pour coopérer avec les moyens de traitement de signal pour afficher successivement sur les moyens d'affichage de données, en réponse à des actionnements digitaux successifs de l'utilisateur de l'organe de sélection, les différentes valeurs de débit sélectionnables et les différentes autonomies correspondantes, chaque valeur de débit étant affichée simultanément à une autonomie correspondante déterminée pour ladite valeur de débit considérée.The solution according to the invention relates to a gas container, such as a gas cylinder, equipped with a gas distribution valve comprising, that is to say on which is mounted, an electronic device for measuring the autonomy in gas, in which:

• the gas distribution valve comprises flow rate selection means allowing a user to select a desired gas flow rate from among a plurality of selectable gas flow rates, and
• the electronic device includes:
  • At least one pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure of the gas contained in the container and provide at least one pressure signal,
  • ■ signal processing means configured to determine a plurality of gas backups from at least the pressure signal supplied by said at least one pressure sensor and the plurality of selectable gas flow rates,
  • ■ data display means configured to display a gas autonomy and a corresponding flow rate value, and
  • ■ a digitally actuated selection device that can be activated by a user,

characterized in that the selection member is configured to cooperate with the signal processing means to display successively on the data display means, in response to successive digital actuations by the user of the selection member, the various selectable flow values and the different corresponding autonomies, each flow value being displayed simultaneously at a corresponding autonomy determined for said considered flow value.

In other words, according to the invention, in response to successive digital actuations by the user of the selection member, the display means of The data successively display the different selectable flow values and the different corresponding autonomies in the form of flow / autonomy pairs, each flow / autonomy pair comprising a flow value and the corresponding autonomy having been determined for the flow value considered.

By pressing successively on the selection member, the user therefore scrolls on the data display means the various flow / autonomy pairs that can be determined for the various possible selectable flow rates, for example flow values between 0 and 30 L / min.

It should be noted that the gas autonomy values are expressed and / or displayed in the form of a possible duration of use, for example in minutes or in hours and minutes.

• le dispositif électronique est configuré pour afficher successivement les différents couples débit/autonomie, après des appuis successifs sur l'organe de sélection par l'utilisateur, lorsqu'il est en état inactif ou passif, c'est-à-dire lorsqu'aucun débit de gaz n'existe.
• l'organe de sélection est configuré pour coopérer avec les moyens de traitement de signal de manière à ce que des actionnements digitaux successifs de l'utilisateur engendrent un défilement et un affichage sur les moyens d'affichage de données des différentes valeurs de débit (Q) sélectionnables et des différentes autonomies (A) correspondantes.
• les moyens d'affichage de données sont configurés pour afficher un couple autonomie/débit comprenant une valeur de débit (Q) et une autonomie (A) correspondante.
• les débits (Q) de gaz sélectionnables sont compris entre 0 L/Min et 30 L/min, de préférence entre 0 et 25 L/min.
• l'organe de sélection est configuré pour coopérer avec les moyens de traitement de signal de manière à ce que les actionnements digitaux successifs de l'utilisateur dudit organe de sélection, engendrent un défilement et un affichage successif des couples débit/autonomie dans l'ordre croissant des débits. Par exemple, pour les valeurs de débit suivantes, prises dans l'ordre croissant des débits, à savoir 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 et 25 L/min, le premier couple affiché suite au premier actionnement digital de l'utilisateur comprend le premier débit sélectionnable (e.g. 0.5 L/min), le deuxième couple affiché suite au deuxième actionnement digital de l'utilisateur comprend le deuxième débit sélectionnable (e.g. 1 L/min), le troisième couple affiché suite au troisième actionnement digital de l'utilisateur comprend le troisième débit sélectionnable (e.g. 2 L/min)... et ainsi de suite jusqu'au dernier débit sélectionnable (e.g. 25 L/min, ici).
• les moyens de traitement de signal sont configurés pour, qu'après affichage du dernier couple débit/autonomie incluant le débit maximal sélectionnable (i.e. dernier débit sélectionnable), par exemple ici le débit maximal de 25 L/min, un actionnement digital supplémentaire de l'utilisateur de l'organe de sélection engendre un affichage, sur les moyens d'affichage, à nouveau du premier couple débit/autonomie incluant le débit minimal sélectionnable (e.g. 0.5 L/min), c'est-à-dire que le défilement est opéré en boucle.
• les moyens de traitement de signal sont configurés pour, qu'après une suspension ou un arrêt de l'actionnement digital de l'utilisateur de l'organe d'activation (e.g. bouton ou analogue) pendant une durée donnée, par exemple une durée supérieure ou égale à 3 secondes, typiquement entre 3 et 20 secondes, par exemple entre 5 et 10 secondes, l'affichage des couples débit/autonomie est réinitialisé de manière à ce que tout nouvel actionnement digital de l'utilisateur de l'organe d'activation engendre un affichage, sur les moyens d'affichage, du premier couple débit/autonomie incluant le débit minimal sélectionnable (e.g. 0.5 L/min).
• les moyens d'affichage de données comprennent un écran d'affichage.
• le dispositif électronique comprend un boitier externe portant les moyens d'affichage de données et contenant les moyens de traitement de signal.
• le robinet de distribution de gaz comprend en outre un raccord de sortie de gaz pour délivrer le gaz au débit de gaz souhaité sélectionné par lesdits moyens de sélection de débit.
• les moyens de traitement de signal comprennent au moins un microprocesseur, de préférence un microcontrôleur.
• l'organe de sélection à actionnement digital comprend une touche, un bouton de sélection ou analogue.
• le récipient est une bouteille de gaz sous pression, i.e. une bonbonne de gaz.
• le récipient comprend un corps de récipient délimitant un volume ou compartiment interne contenant un gaz ou mélange gazeux comprimé, c'est-à-dire sous pression (> 1 atm).
• le corps de récipient comprend un volume interne ayant un volume inférieur ou égal à 50 L (équivalent en eau).
• le corps de récipient a une forme cylindrique, de préférence une forme en ogive.
• le corps de récipient comprend un col comportant un orifice de sortie en communication fluidique avec le volume interne.
• le robinet de distribution de gaz est fixé au col du corps de récipient.
• le col du corps de récipient est en matériau(x) métallique(s), en particulier en acier ou en alliage d'aluminium, ou en matériau(x) composite(s).
• le gaz ou mélange gazeux stocké dans le volume interne du récipient de gaz est de l'oxygène, de l'air, un mélange NO/N₂, un mélange He/O₂, O₂/N₂O ou tout autre gaz, en particulier tout autre gaz médical.
• le robinet de distribution de gaz comprend des moyens de détente de gaz intégrés, c'est-à-dire qu'il s'agit d'un robinet à détendeur intégré (RDI).
• les moyens de détente de gaz comprennent un clapet de détente et un siège de clapet.
• le gaz ou mélange gazeux est comprimé à une pression inférieure ou égale à 350 bar abs, typiquement moins de 300 bar abs.
• le robinet de distribution de gaz est en alliage de cuivre, en particulier en laiton, ou en acier, ou les deux.
• les moyens de sélection de débit permettent à un utilisateur de sélectionner un débit de gaz souhaité parmi une pluralité de débits de gaz sélectionnables compris entre 0 L/Min et 30 L/min, de préférence entre 0.5 L/Min et 25 L/min.
• les moyens de sélection de débit permettent de sélectionner un débit de gaz souhaité parmi de 5 à 30 débits de gaz différents, de préférence entre 8 et 25 débits de gaz différents, par exemple de 10 à 20 débits de gaz différents.
• les moyens de sélection de débit permettent de sélectionner un débit de gaz souhaité parmi une pluralité de débits de gaz sélectionnables comprenant au moins une partie des valeurs de débit suivantes : 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 et 25 L/min.
• il comprend des moyens de mémorisation, telle une mémoire flash ou autre, permettant de mémoriser la pluralité de valeurs de débit et/ou de pression.
• les moyens de sélection de débit comprennent un sélecteur de débit rotatif qui est manipulable/actionnable par l'utilisateur.
• le sélecteur de débit rotatif est de type volant rotatif.
• les moyens de traitement de signal comprennent une carte électronique.
• de préférence la carte électronique porte ledit au moins un microprocesseur, de préférence un microcontrôleur.
• le microcontrôleur met en œuvre au moins un algorithme.
• avantageusement, la carte électronique porte en outre ledit au moins un capteur de pression servant à mesurer la pression du gaz au sein du récipient.
• avantageusement, la carte électronique comprend en outre ledit au moins un capteur de température servant à mesurer la température ambiante et/ou du gaz et à fournir au moins un signal de température.
• le dispositif électronique comprend un capteur de température du gaz pour mesurer la température du gaz, c'est-à-dire configuré pour déterminer la température du gaz contenu dans le récipient de gaz sous pression.
• le dispositif électronique comprend un capteur de température ambiante pour mesurer la température ambiante, c'est-à-dire configuré pour déterminer la température de l'environnement (i.e. air) situé autour du dispositif électronique ou dans le boitier dudit dispositif électronique.
• le dispositif électronique comprend par ailleurs un capteur de position pour déterminer la position des moyens de sélection de débit, c'est-à-dire configuré pour déterminer le débit de gaz choisi par l'utilisateur à partir d'une détermination de la position angulaire d'un sélecteur rotatif, tel un volant rotatif.
• le capteur de pression est couplé au capteur de température de gaz de manière à fournir au moins un signal de pression du gaz corrélé, associé ou correspondant à une température de gaz mesurée à l'instant de la mesure de pression.
• le capteur de pression est associé à un capteur de température du gaz de manière à fournir aux moyens de traitement de signal, un signal de pression correspondant ou associé à une température de gaz mesurée.
• les moyens de traitement de signal sont configurés pour déterminer une autonomie en gaz à partir dudit d'au moins un signal de pression fourni par le capteur de pression, d'au moins un signal de température de gaz fourni par le capteur de température de gaz, d'au moins un signal de température ambiante fourni par le capteur de température ambiante et d'au moins un débit de gaz correspondant à une position du sélecteur de débit.
• le robinet de gaz comprend un corps de robinet traversé par un circuit de gaz, c'est-à-dire un ou plusieurs conduits de gaz.
• le circuit de gaz relie fluidiquement le volume interne du récipient de gaz à la prise de sortie de gaz, i.e. raccord de sortie de gaz servant à fournir le gaz.
• les moyens de détente de gaz sont agencés sur le circuit de gaz.
• ledit au moins un capteur de pression est relié au circuit de gaz en amont desdits moyens de détente de gaz, c'est-à-dire dans la partie du circuit de gaz soumis à la haute pression de gaz car en communication fluidique avec le volume interne du récipient.
• ledit au moins un capteur de pression est configuré pour mesurer la pression du gaz contenu dans le récipient via une prise de pression opérée sur le circuit de gaz dans la partie du circuit de gaz soumis à la haute pression de gaz.
• le microprocesseur, typiquement un microcontrôleur, met en œuvre au moins un algorithme permettant de calculer une ou des autonomies en gaz à partir de signaux de mesure de pression, de température du gaz, de température ambiante et d'une ou plusieurs valeurs représentatives de la position du sélecteur de débit.
• les moyens d'affichage de données comprennent un écran numérique, par exemple un écran à LED, à cristaux liquides (LCD), à segments ou autre.
• le dispositif électronique comprend un boitier externe portant les moyens d'affichage de données, de préférence un écran encastré dans l'une des parois dudit boitier, typiquement la paroi supérieure dudit boitier externe.
• les moyens d'affichage de données sont reliés électriquement aux moyens de traitement de signal.
• le dispositif électronique comprend un boitier externe contenant les moyens de traitement de signal.
• il comprend des moyens de fourniture de courant électrique reliés électriquement, directement ou indirectement, aux moyens de traitement de signal, à au moins un capteur et/ou aux moyens d'affichage pour les alimenter directement ou indirectement en courant électrique.
• les moyens de fourniture de courant électrique comprennent une (ou plusieurs) pile ou batterie électrique, de préférence ayant une autonomie électrique d'au moins 2 ans, de préférence au moins 5 ans, idéalement environ 10 ans.
• le boitier externe est en matériau rigide, de préférence en métal ou en polymère.
• le boitier externe forme une carcasse protégeant les composants qui s'y trouvent, tel que les moyens de traitement de signal, le ou les capteurs, les moyens de fourniture de courant électrique...
• les valeurs de débits de gaz affichées sont préférentiellement exprimées en L/min.
• l'autonomie est exprimée préférentiellement en heures et minutes ou en minutes.
• l'autonomie affichée pour chaque débit sélectionnable est une durée, i.e. temps d'utilisation estimé.
• les valeurs d'autonomie en gaz et les valeurs de débit de gaz correspondantes sont affichées sous forme de couples de valeurs autonomie/débit.
• le robinet de distribution de gaz est protégé par un capotage ou chapeau de protection formant une coque protectrice contre les chocs, les salissures...., de préférence en polymère ou en métal ou alliage métallique.
• le capotage de protection comprend au moins une poignée de portage et/ou un système d'accrochage à un support, notamment à un barreau de lit d'hôpital ou analogue.
• le dispositif électronique de mesure d'autonomie en gaz est fixé au robinet et le capotage de protection comprend au moins une ouverture dans laquelle est logé le dispositif électronique.

According to the embodiment considered, the gas container of the invention can comprise one or more of the following characteristics:

• the electronic device is configured to successively display the different flow / autonomy pairs, after successive presses on the selection member by the user, when it is in inactive or passive state, that is to say when no gas flow does not exist.
• the selection member is configured to cooperate with the signal processing means so that successive digital actuations by the user cause scrolling and display on the data display means of the different flow values (Q ) selectable and the corresponding different autonomies (A).
• the data display means are configured to display a range / flow rate pair comprising a flow rate value (Q) and a corresponding range (A).
• the selectable gas flow rates (Q) are between 0 L / Min and 30 L / min, preferably between 0 and 25 L / min.
• the selection member is configured to cooperate with the signal processing means so that the successive digital actuations of the user of said selection member, generate a scrolling and a successive display of the flow / autonomy pairs in the order increasing flow rates. For example, for the following flow values, taken in increasing order of flow rates, namely 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 and 25 L / min, the first torque displayed following the user's first digital actuation includes the first selectable flow (eg 0.5 L / min), the second torque displayed following the user's second digital actuation includes the second selectable flow (eg 1 L / min), the third torque displayed following the third digital actuation of the user includes the third selectable flow (eg 2 L / min) ... and so on until the last selectable flow (eg 25 L / min , here).
• the signal processing means are configured so that, after displaying the last flow rate / autonomy pair including the maximum selectable flow rate (ie last selectable flow rate), for example here the maximum flow rate of 25 L / min, an additional digital actuation of the The user of the selection device generates a display, on the display means, again of the first flow / autonomy pair including the minimum selectable flow (eg 0.5 L / min), that is to say that the scrolling is operated in a loop.
• the signal processing means are configured so that after a suspension or stopping of the digital actuation of the user of the activation device (eg button or the like) for a given duration, for example a longer duration or equal to 3 seconds, typically between 3 and 20 seconds, for example between 5 and 10 seconds, the display of the flow / autonomy pairs is reset so that any new digital actuation by the user of the device activation generates a display, on the display means, of the first flow / autonomy pair including the minimum selectable flow (eg 0.5 L / min).
• the data display means comprise a display screen.
• the electronic device comprises an external box carrying the data display means and containing the signal processing means.
• the gas distribution valve further comprises a gas outlet fitting for delivering gas at the desired gas flow rate selected by said flow rate selection means.
• the signal processing means comprise at least one microprocessor, preferably a microcontroller.
• the digitally actuated selection member comprises a key, a selection button or the like.
• the receptacle is a pressurized gas cylinder, ie a gas cylinder.
• the receptacle comprises a receptacle body delimiting an internal volume or compartment containing a compressed gas or gaseous mixture, that is to say under pressure (> 1 atm).
• the container body comprises an internal volume having a volume less than or equal to 50 L (water equivalent).
• the container body has a cylindrical shape, preferably a pointed shape.
• the container body includes a neck having an outlet port in fluid communication with the internal volume.
• the gas distribution valve is attached to the neck of the container body.
• the neck of the container body is made of metallic material (s), in particular steel or aluminum alloy, or composite material (s).
• the gas or gas mixture stored in the internal volume of the gas container is oxygen, air, an NO / N ₂ mixture, a He / O ₂ mixture, O ₂ / N ₂ O or any other gas, in particular any other medical gas.
• the gas distribution valve has integrated gas pressure relief means, i.e. it is an integrated pressure relief valve (RDI).
• the gas expansion means comprise an expansion valve and a valve seat.
• the gas or gas mixture is compressed to a pressure less than or equal to 350 bar abs, typically less than 300 bar abs.
• the gas distribution valve is made of copper alloy, especially brass, or steel, or both.
• the flow rate selection means allow a user to select a desired gas flow rate from among a plurality of selectable gas flow rates between 0 L / Min and 30 L / min, preferably between 0.5 L / Min and 25 L / min.
• the flow rate selection means make it possible to select a desired gas flow rate from among 5 to 30 different gas flow rates, preferably between 8 and 25 different gas flow rates, for example from 10 to 20 different gas flow rates.
• the flow rate selection means make it possible to select a desired gas flow rate from among a plurality of selectable gas flow rates comprising at least at least part of the following flow values: 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 and 25 L / min.
• it comprises storage means, such as a flash memory or the like, making it possible to store the plurality of flow and / or pressure values.
• the flow rate selection means comprise a rotary flow rate selector which can be manipulated / actuated by the user.
• the rotary flow selector is of the rotary handwheel type.
• the signal processing means comprise an electronic card.
• preferably the electronic card carries said at least one microprocessor, preferably a microcontroller.
• the microcontroller implements at least one algorithm.
• advantageously, the electronic card also carries said at least one pressure sensor serving to measure the pressure of the gas within the container.
• advantageously, the electronic card further comprises said at least one temperature sensor serving to measure the ambient temperature and / or of the gas and to supply at least one temperature signal.
• the electronic device comprises a gas temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the gas, that is to say configured to determine the temperature of the gas contained in the pressurized gas container.
• the electronic device comprises an ambient temperature sensor for measuring the ambient temperature, that is to say configured to determine the temperature of the environment (ie air) located around the electronic device or in the casing of said electronic device.
• the electronic device also comprises a position sensor for determining the position of the flow rate selection means, that is to say configured to determine the gas flow rate chosen by the user from a determination of the angular position a rotary selector, such as a rotary handwheel.
• the pressure sensor is coupled to the gas temperature sensor so as to provide at least one gas pressure signal correlated, associated with or corresponding to a gas temperature measured at the instant of the pressure measurement.
• the pressure sensor is associated with a gas temperature sensor so as to supply the signal processing means with a pressure signal corresponding to or associated with a measured gas temperature.
• the signal processing means are configured to determine a gas autonomy from said at least one pressure signal supplied by the pressure sensor, at least one gas temperature signal supplied by the gas temperature sensor , at least one ambient temperature signal supplied by the ambient temperature sensor and at least one gas flow rate corresponding to a position of the flow rate selector.
• the gas valve comprises a valve body through which a gas circuit passes, that is to say one or more gas conduits.
• the gas circuit fluidly connects the internal volume of the gas container to the gas outlet, ie gas outlet connection serving to supply the gas.
• the gas expansion means are arranged on the gas circuit.
• said at least one pressure sensor is connected to the gas circuit upstream of said gas expansion means, that is to say in the part of the gas circuit subjected to the high gas pressure because in fluid communication with the volume internal of the container.
• said at least one pressure sensor is configured to measure the pressure of the gas contained in the container via a pressure tap operated on the gas circuit in the part of the gas circuit subjected to the high gas pressure.
• the microprocessor, typically a microcontroller, implements at least one algorithm making it possible to calculate one or more gas backups from pressure measurement signals, gas temperature, ambient temperature and one or more values representative of the position of the flow selector.
• the data display means comprise a digital display, for example an LED, liquid crystal (LCD), segment display or the like.
• the electronic device comprises an external box carrying the data display means, preferably a screen embedded in one of the walls of said box, typically the upper wall of said outer box.
• the data display means are electrically connected to the signal processing means.
• the electronic device comprises an external box containing the signal processing means.
• it comprises means for supplying electric current electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to the signal processing means, to at least one sensor and / or to the display means for supplying them directly or indirectly with electric current.
• the means for supplying electric current comprise one (or more) battery or electric battery, preferably having an electric autonomy of at least 2 years, preferably at least 5 years, ideally around 10 years.
• the outer casing is made of a rigid material, preferably of metal or of polymer.
• the external box forms a casing protecting the components therein, such as the signal processing means, the sensor (s), the means for supplying electric current, etc.
• the displayed gas flow values are preferably expressed in L / min.
• autonomy is preferentially expressed in hours and minutes or in minutes.
• the autonomy displayed for each selectable flow rate is a duration, ie estimated usage time.
• the gas autonomy values and the corresponding gas flow values are displayed in the form of pairs of autonomy / flow values.
• the gas distribution valve is protected by a cover or protective cap forming a protective shell against impacts, dirt, etc., preferably in polymer or in metal or metal alloy.
• the protective cover comprises at least one carrying handle and / or a system for attaching to a support, in particular to a hospital bed bar or the like.
• the electronic device for measuring gas autonomy is attached to the valve and the protective cover comprises at least one opening in which the electronic device is housed.

The invention also relates to a use of the gas container according to the invention, typically a gas cylinder, for storing or distributing gas, in particular medical gases, such as oxygen, air, an NO mixture. / N ₂ , a He / O ₂ , O ₂ / N ₂ O or other mixture.

Furthermore, the invention also relates to a patient ventilation assembly comprising a gas container, such as a gas cylinder, according to the invention, a respiratory interface for supplying gas to a patient, and a flexible duct connecting said container to the patient. said respiratory interface. Preferably, the respiratory interface is a breathing mask or the like.

• Fig. 1 schématise un mode de réalisation d'un récipient de gaz selon l'invention,
• Fig. 2 illustre l'affichage d'un premier couple autonomie/débit de gaz selon l'invention, et
• Fig. 3 illustre l'affichage d'un second couple autonomie/débit de gaz selon l'invention.
• Fig. 1 schématise un mode de réalisation d'un récipient de gaz 1 selon l'invention, à savoir ici une bouteille ou bonbonne de gaz à corps cylindrique en acier ou alliage d'aluminium, équipé d'un robinet de distribution de gaz 2, aussi appelé vanne, sur lequel est monté un dispositif électronique 3 d'affichage de l'autonomie et du débit de gaz comprenant des moyens d'affichage 34 de données, par exemple un écran numérique 4, par exemple de type LCD à segments.

The invention will now be better understood thanks to the following detailed description, given by way of illustration but not limitation, with reference to the appended figures, among which:

• Fig. 1 shows schematically an embodiment of a gas container according to the invention,
• Fig. 2 illustrates the display of a first range / gas flow pair according to the invention, and
• Fig. 3 illustrates the display of a second range / gas flow pair according to the invention.
• Fig. 1 schematizes an embodiment of a gas container 1 according to the invention, namely here a cylinder or gas cylinder with a cylindrical body made of steel or aluminum alloy, equipped with a gas distribution valve 2, also called valve, on which is mounted an electronic device 3 for displaying the autonomy and the gas flow rate comprising data display means 34, for example a digital screen 4, for example of the segment LCD type.

The gas distribution valve 2 comprises a body made of brass for example, which is crossed by an internal gas circuit, that is to say one or more passages, conduits or gas channels, in fluid communication with the internal volume 10 of gas container 1.

The gas distribution valve 2 comprises flow selection means 5, namely here a rotary handwheel or the like, allowing a user, such as a nursing staff, to select a desired gas flow rate from among a plurality of flow rates. selectable gases, preferably a dozen possible flow rates between 0 and 25 L / min, for example the following flow rates: 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 and 25 L / min. The gas flow is supplied to the user by a gas outlet or connection 6, that is to say a nozzle or the like.

There can also be provided a second gas outlet 8, called a notched outlet, allowing the specific fluid connection of a ventilation device or the like for example.

Furthermore, the gas distribution valve 2 also comprises integrated gas expansion means 7, that is to say that it is a valve 2 with integrated pressure reducer (RDI), making it possible to operate a reduction in the pressure of the gas from the pressure at which it is in the volume or internal compartment 10 of the gas container 1, called high pressure, typically a pressure which can reach 350 bar abs, to its operating pressure, called low pressure, which is generally less than 10 bar abs, for example of the order of 4 bar abs or less.

The gas expansion means 7 usually include an expansion valve and a valve seat (not shown) cooperating with each other to reduce gas pressure.

The gas expansion means 7 are arranged on the internal gas circuit, that is to say one or more passages, conduits or gas channels, passing through the body of the valve 2 and placing the internal volume 10 of the valve in fluid communication. gas container 1 and the gas outlet 6 serving to deliver the gas at the desired gas flow rate selected by the user by actuation of the flow rate selection means 5.

The part of the gas circuit located upstream of the gas expansion means 7 is subjected to high pressure, that is to say to the pressure prevailing in the internal volume 10 of the container 1, while that located downstream of the gas expansion means 7 is subjected to low pressure, that is to say to the pressure of the gas after expansion.

The electronic device 3 for its part comprises a pressure sensor 31 serving to measure the pressure of the gas within the container 1 and supply at least one pressure signal, and signal processing means 32, such as an electronic card with a microcontroller, to determine at least one gas autonomy from the pressure signals supplied by the pressure sensor 31 and at least one gas flow rate, and preferably from a temperature measured by a temperature sensor 33 arranged so as to measure ambient temperature, i.e. of the environment around the device 3, and / or a temperature internal to the device 3. In fact, the temperature inside the device 3 corresponds to the ambient temperature and its variations reflect the variations of the ambient temperature, ie of the 'ambiant air.

Preferably, the pressure sensor 31 is coupled to the gas temperature sensor so as to provide at least one correlated gas pressure signal, associated with or corresponding to a gas temperature measured at the instant of the pressure measurement.

The electronic device 3 also comprises a position sensor for determining the position of the flow rate selection means 5, typically a rotary selector, i.e. the position sensor is configured to determine the gas flow rate chosen by the user from a determination of the angular position of the rotary selector, such as a rotary handwheel.

The pressure sensor 31 is preferably connected to the part of the gas circuit of the valve body which is located upstream of the gas expansion means 7, which is subjected to high gas pressure. Preferably, the pressure sensor 31 comprises or is associated with an integrated gas temperature sensor making it possible to supply a pressure signal relating to the temperature of the gas measured at the instant of the pressure measurement.

Preferably, the pressure sensor 31 and the signal processing means 32, such as an electronic card with a microcontroller, are arranged in a rigid case 30, for example made of polymer or metal.

Data display means 34 are also provided, such as a digital screen 4, making it possible to display information useful to the user, in particular the gas autonomy calculated by the signal processing means 32 and the flow rate. corresponding gas, as explained below.

The digital screen 4 is carried by the rigid case 30. There is also provided means for supplying electric current electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to the various components requiring electricity to operate, in particular to the signal processing means. 32, to the sensors 31, 33, to the display means 34 of the rigid case 30 so as to supply them directly or indirectly with electric current and thus allow their operation. Advantageously, the means for supplying electric current comprise a electric battery advantageously having an electric autonomy of at least 5 years, ideally around 10 years.

The signal processing means 32 are configured to determine gas autonomy from the pressure signal supplied by the pressure sensor 31 and from the plurality of selectable gas flow rates, and preferably also from the measured temperatures, for example ambient temperature and / or gas.

In other words, the signal processing means 32 determine flow / autonomy pairs from at least the pressure signal and the various possible flow rates, preferably between 0 and 25 L / min, for example the following flow rates: 0.5, 1 , 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 and 25 L / min. Each flow corresponds to a given autonomy, calculated from said flow and the measured gas pressure, or even one or other parameters (i.e. temperatures, etc.).

According to the present invention, there is also provided a digitally actuated selection member 9 that can be activated by a user, such as a button or a key. This selection member 9 is preferably arranged next to the screen 4 of the data display means 34, as illustrated in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 .

More precisely, the selection member 9, that is to say a button or the like, is configured to cooperate with the signal processing means 32 and the data display means 34 to successively display, that is i.e. scrolling, in response to successive digital actuations by the user of the selection member 9, the different selectable flow values and the different corresponding autonomies, each flow value being displayed simultaneously at a determined corresponding autonomy for said flow rate value considered, that is to say that screen 4 successively displays autonomy / flow pairs, as illustrated on Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 .

In other words, the signal processing means 32 make it possible to estimate the gas autonomy, ie the possible duration of use of the container 1, for each flow rate selectable by the flow rate selection means 5 and the gas pressure. measured. These torques comprising an estimated autonomy and a corresponding gas flow rate are then displayed successively on the screen 4 when the user repeatedly presses the selection member 9, ie a button or the like, that is to say when the user controls a scrolling of the various autonomy / flow rate pairs obtained for the measured gas pressure, or even other data, such as one or more temperatures.

To do this, the signal processing means 32 comprise an electronic card with microprocessor (s) receiving measurement signals from the pressure sensor 31 and from the gas temperature sensor which is associated with it, and from the temperature sensor 33. ambient or equivalent, when container 1 is used. These pressure and temperature measurement signals are processed by one or more algorithms implemented by the microprocessor (s) of the electronic card.

The gas autonomy is expressed in possible time of use, typically in hours and minutes or simply in minutes.

In general, the determined gas autonomy (A) and the corresponding gas flow rate (Q) are displayed in torque, as shown in the diagrams. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 .

In other words, by pressing button 9 several times in succession, the user obtains a display on the screen 4, successively of all the possible autonomy values (A) associated with all the flows (Q) of corresponding gases which scroll in range / flow pairs on screen 4 following digital actuations, ie successive presses, of button 9 by the user.

Thus, the personnel wishing to use a gas cylinder 1, is able to choose the cylinder which suits them best, without making any calculations or complicated manipulations but simply scrolling through the different range / flow rates corresponding to the pressure of measured gas.

In the embodiment of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 , the flow rate and the back-up time are displayed one above the other on screen 4; however, they could also be displayed next to each other, or the like.

Preferably, the flow / autonomy pairs are displayed successively by taking the flow rates in their increasing order, that is to say that the lowest flow rate is displayed first, for example 0.5 L / Min, then the other flow rates, in an increasing manner, during the various actuations of button 9 by the user, for example 1, then 2, then 3, .... and finally 25 L / min, using the example given below. above.

Preferably, when the user stops pressing the button 9, the scrolling is reset after a given time, for example after a few seconds, for example after 3 seconds to 10 seconds. Pressing button 9 again after this given time will again display the flow rate / autonomy pair for the lowest selectable flow rate.

où :

• P_atm désigne la pression atmosphérique (i.e. 1 bar abs = 1 atm)
• V_gaz désigne le volume de gaz disponible
• P_gaz désigne la pression du gaz dans le récipient, i.e. pression haute
• V_cyl désigne le volume interne du récipient de gaz

The gas autonomy (A) with respect to the possible flow rates (Q) can be calculated as follows from the gas pressure in the receptacle 1 measured by the pressure sensor 31. This pressure can be interpreted as a volume of gas available thanks to Gay Lussac's law: $${\mathit{P}}_{\mathit{ATM}}{\mathit{V}}_{\mathit{gas}}={\mathit{P}}_{\mathit{gas}}{\mathit{V}}_{\mathit{cyl}}$$

or :

• P _atm denotes atmospheric pressure (ie 1 bar abs = 1 atm)
• V _gas designates the volume of gas available
• P _gas designates the gas pressure in the container, ie high pressure
• V _cyl designates the internal volume of the gas container

The volume of gas available is then: $$V_{\mathit{gas}}=\frac{P_{\mathit{gas}}{V}_{\mathit{cyl}}}{P_{\mathit{ATM}}}$$

P _gas is calculated from the direct measurements made by the pressure sensor 31 and the temperature sensor 33, which make it possible to estimate a pressure value of the gas.

1 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{1L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{1L/\mathit{min}}$$

2 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{2L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{2L/\mathit{min}}$$

3 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{3L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{3L/\mathit{min}}$$

5 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{5L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{5L/\mathit{min}}$$

8 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{8L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{8L/\mathit{min}}$$

10 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{10L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{10L/\mathit{min}}$$

12 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{12L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{12L/\mathit{min}}$$

15 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{15L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{15L/\mathit{min}}$$

20 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{20L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{20L/\mathit{min}}$$

22 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{22L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{22L/\mathit{min}}$$

25 L/min $${\mathit{Autonomie}}_{25L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gaz}}}{25L/\mathit{min}}$$

For each flow rate Q, we can then calculate a corresponding gas autonomy A, as illustrated in Table 1 for the 12 flow rates (Q) mentioned above. Table 1 Selectable flow rates (Q) Autonomy (A) according to the volume of gas available in the container 0.5 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{0.5L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{0.5L/\mathit{min}}$$

1 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{1L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{1L/\mathit{min}}$$

2 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{2L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{2L/\mathit{min}}$$

3 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{3L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{3L/\mathit{min}}$$

5 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{5L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{5L/\mathit{min}}$$

8 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{8L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{8L/\mathit{min}}$$

10 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{10L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{10L/\mathit{min}}$$

12 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{12L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{12L/\mathit{min}}$$

15 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{15L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{15L/\mathit{min}}$$

20 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{20L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{20L/\mathit{min}}$$

22 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{22L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{22L/\mathit{min}}$$

25 L / min $${\mathit{Autonomy}}_{25L/\mathit{min}}=\frac{V_{\mathit{gas}}}{25L/\mathit{min}}$$

Example

A given patient needs a prescription of 2 L / min of oxygen for 30 minutes.

• de type B10 (i.e. de contenance de 10L en équivalent eau), 200 L de gaz correspondent à une pression de l'ordre de 20 bar ab, alors que 1000 L de gaz correspondent à une pression de l'ordre de 100 bar ab.
• de type B5 (i.e. de contenance de 5L en équivalent eau), 200 L de gaz correspondent à une pression de l'ordre de 40 bar ab, alors que 1000 L de gaz correspondent à une pression de l'ordre de 200 bar ab.

A user, ie nursing staff, must therefore supply him with this gas according to the medical prescription suitable for this patient. To do this, it has two gas bottles 1 comprising different amounts of oxygen, namely 200 L for one and 1000 L for the other, but different gas pressures. For example, in the case of a bottle:

• of type B10 (ie with a capacity of 10L in water equivalent), 200 L of gas correspond to a pressure of the order of 20 bar ab, while 1000 L of gas correspond to a pressure of the order of 100 bar ab.
• of type B5 (ie with a capacity of 5L in water equivalent), 200 L of gas correspond to a pressure of the order of 40 bar ab, while 1000 L of gas correspond to a pressure of the order of 200 bar ab.

Each bottle 1 is equipped with an electronic device 3 for measuring the gas autonomy comprising a display screen 4 according to the invention, as shown diagrammatically in Fig. 1 .

In this passive state, the user sees, to make his choice, either the quantity of gas available in liters, or the gas pressure, as the case may be, which is displayed on the electronic device 3 of each gas cylinder 1. In another embodiment, provision can be made to display both, ie quantity (in L) and pressure (in bar).

However, in either case, the user, such as a nursing staff, cannot know for how long and at what flow rate each bottle 1 can be used.

Thanks to the electronic device fitted to the gas cylinders 1 according to the present invention, the user can easily know whether which cylinder can be used for how long and at what rate by simply pressing button 9 several times in succession to scroll through the different flow / autonomy pairs, which are then displayed, one after the other, on the screen 4 of the electronic device 3, as shown diagrammatically in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 .

Thus, the flow / autonomy pairs that the user can scroll by activating button 9 and which are then displayed there successively on the screen 4 of each gas cylinder 1 are for example those given in Table 2 below. . Table 2 Flow / autonomy pairs displayed on the bottle screen with 1000L Flow / autonomy pairs displayed on the screen of the bottle with 200L 0.5 L / min 2000 min 0.5 L / min 400 mins 1 L / min 1000 min 1 L / min 200 mins 2 L / min 500 mins 2 L / min 100 mins 3 L / min 333 mins 3 L / min 67 mins 5 L / min 200 mins 5 L / min 40 mins 8 L / min 125 mins 8 L / min 25 mins 10 L / min 100 mins 10 L / min 20 mins 12 L / min 83 mins 12 Umin 17 mins 15 L / min 67 mins 15 L / min 13 mins 20 L / min 50 mins 20 Umin 10 minutes 22 L / min 45 mins 22 L / min 9 min 25 L / min 40 mins 25 L / min 8 mins

In Table 2, the times are displayed in minutes. However, these times can also be displayed in hours and minutes.

Thus, the user can quickly and immediately know the autonomy of each gas container, ie each medical gas cylinder 1, for the various possible gas flow rates, without having to carry out any calculations. and / or manipulating the gas flow rate selector to select the different flow rates which interest it from among the plurality of possible flow rates.

He can then decide which bottle 1 to use to treat the patient in question, in particular as a function of the prescription to be applied.

The pressurized gas container, in particular a gas cylinder, according to the invention is particularly suitable for use for storing and / or distributing medical grade gas, namely a pure gas or a gas mixture.

Claims (10)

Gas container (1) equipped with a gas distribution valve (2) comprising an electronic device (3) for measuring the gas autonomy, in which: - the gas distribution valve (2) comprises flow rate selection means (5) allowing a user to select a desired gas flow rate from among a plurality of selectable gas flow rates, and - the electronic device (3) comprises: ■ at least one pressure sensor (31) configured to measure the pressure of the gas contained in the container (1) and provide at least one pressure signal, ■ signal processing means (32) configured to determine a plurality of gas backups from at least the pressure signal provided by said at least one pressure sensor (31) and the plurality of selectable gas flow rates, ■ data display means (34) configured to display an autonomy and a corresponding flow rate value, and ■ a digitally actuated selection device (9) that can be activated by a user, characterized in that the selection member (9) is configured to cooperate with the signal processing means (32) to successively display on the data display means (34), in response to successive digital actuations of the user of the selection member (9), the different selectable flow values (Q) and the different corresponding autonomy (A), each flow value (Q) being displayed simultaneously with a corresponding autonomy (A) determined for said considered flow rate value. Gas container according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the selection member (9) is configured to cooperate with the signal processing means (32) so that successive digital actuations by the user cause scrolling. and a display on the data display means (34) of the different selectable flow rate values (Q) and of the corresponding different autonomies (A), preferably the data display means (34) are configured to display a range / flow rate including a flow rate (Q) and a corresponding range (A). Gas container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the selectable gas flow rates (Q) are between 0 L / Min and 30 L / min, preferably between 0 and 25 L / min. Gas container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic device (3) further comprises: - a gas temperature sensor to measure the gas temperature, - an ambient temperature sensor (33) for measuring the ambient temperature, and / or - a position sensor for determining the position of the flow rate selection means (5). Gas container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data display means (34) comprise a display screen (4). Gas container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the selection member (9) is configured to cooperate with the signal processing means (32) so that the successive digital actuations of the user of said selection member (9) generate scrolling and a successive display of the flow / autonomy pairs in increasing order of flow rates. Gas container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal processing means (32) are configured so that, after displaying the last flow rate / autonomy pair including the maximum selectable flow rate, an additional digital actuation of the The user of the selection member (9) generates a display, on the display means (34), again of the first flow / range pair including the minimum selectable flow. Gas container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal processing means (32) are configured so that after a suspension or a stop of the digital actuation of the user of the device 'activation (9) for a given duration, the display of the flow / autonomy pairs is reset so that any new digital actuation by the user of the activation device (9) generates a display, on the means display (34), of the first flow / range pair including the selectable minimum flow. Gas container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the digitally actuated selection member (9) comprises a selection key or button. Use of the gas container (1) according to one of the preceding claims for storing or dispensing gas, preferably the container is a gas cylinder.

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