EP3934865B1 - Device for tight connection of two closed volumes with increased security - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD AND PRIOR ART

The present invention relates to a sealed connection device between the two closed volumes offering improved connection security.

In a number of industrial sectors, including the nuclear, medical, pharmaceutical and agri-food sectors, it is necessary or desirable to perform certain tasks in a confined atmosphere, either in order to protect personnel, for example from radioactivity, toxicity..., or on the contrary to be able to carry out these tasks in an aseptic or dust-free atmosphere, or finally both simultaneously.

The transfer of apparatus or product from one closed volume to another, without at any time the tightness of each of these volumes vis-à-vis the outside being broken, poses a delicate problem to fill. This problem can be solved by a double door connection device.

Such a double-door device provided with a multi-safety control is for example known from the document FR 3 010 118 . Each volume is closed by a door mounted in a flange. Each door is secured to its flange by a bayonet connection and the two flanges are intended to be secured to each other by a bayonet connection.

In the case where one of the closed volumes is formed by a container and the other volume by a glove box or a cell, the transfer takes place as follows. The flange of the container has on its outer periphery lugs intended to cooperate with an indentation of the flange of the glove box. The flange of the container is introduced into the flange of the glove box, the container is oriented so that the ears correspond with the impression.

The device comprises means for securing the two flanges and a control crown mounted outside the first volume closed around the flange, the control crown controlling a plate for securing the two doors and unlocking the door of the second volume , release means of the other door and the opening of the two doors allowing sealed communication between the two volumes. The means for securing the two flanges and the control ring are rotatable relative to the closed volumes and by their rotation ensure all the steps required to obtain a sealed connection and this without causing one of the closed volumes to pivot. No rotation of the second closed volume is required.

This device is satisfactory.

Seals are provided between the container and the cell. The inventors detected that these seals exerted a spring effect between the doors of the container and of the cell, which tended to cause the securing plate to pivot and could cause the device to malfunction.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a leaktight connection device between two closed volumes that does not have the above drawback.

The object of the present invention is achieved by a sealed connection device between a first and a second closed volume, each closed volume comprising an opening bordered by a flange and closed by a door, the door of the second closed volume being mounted in a sealed manner in a flange by a bayonet connection, the device comprising means for joining the two flanges and a control ring mounted outside the first volume closed around the flange, the control ring controlling means for joining the two doors and unlocking the door of the second volume, means for releasing the other door and the opening of the two doors allowing sealed communication between the two volumes. The means for securing the two flanges and the control ring are rotatable relative to the closed volumes and, by their rotation, ensure all the steps required to obtain a watertight connection and this without rotating one of the enclosed volumes. In addition, the device comprises means for immobilizing in position the means for securing the two doors in a state of secured doors or in a state of unsecured doors.

These immobilization means therefore avoid the malfunction set out above.

In a preferred example, the immobilization means comprise a securing plate. The immobilization means then provide angular maintenance of the plate in at least two given controlled states, a state of securing the doors and a state of not securing the doors.

Very advantageously, the immobilization means comprise a cam cooperating with a cam path having two ramps at each of the angular locking positions, making it possible to assist the operator at the end of travel.

The profile of the ramps can be chosen to offer a specific rendering to the operator in the case where the connection device is actuated manually, for example by means of a crank.

• des premiers moyens de solidarisation des première et deuxième brides l'une à l'autre,
• des deuxièmes moyens de solidarisation et de désolidarisation destinés à solidariser la deuxième porte et la première porte de manière étanche et à désolidariser la deuxième porte de la deuxième bride, les deuxièmes moyens comportant un plateau de solidarisation monté mobile en rotation sur une face externe de la première porte autour de l'axe longitudinal et apte à se solidariser à une face externe de la deuxième porte par une liaison baïonnette, ledit plateau de solidarisation étant tel qu'une première partie du déplacement en rotation du plateau de solidarisation est destinée à solidariser la première porte et la deuxième porte et une deuxième partie du déplacement en rotation du plateau de solidarisation est destinée à déverrouiller la deuxième porte par rapport à la deuxième bride,

• des troisièmes moyens de libération de la première porte par rapport à la première bride,
• des quatrièmes moyens d'ouverture d'un passage entre le premier et le deuxième volume clos,
• une couronne de commande apte à être mise en rotation autour d'un axe longitudinal, la rotation de ladite couronne de commande actionnant au moins les deuxièmes, troisièmes et quatrièmes moyens,
  l'ensemble comportant également des moyens d'immobilisation du plateau de solidarisation par rapport à la première porte dans une première position en l'absence de la deuxième porte et dans une deuxième position en présence de la deuxième porte dans un état dans lequel la première porte et la deuxième porte sont solidarisées et la deuxième porte est déverrouillée par rapport à la deuxième bride,
• un premier dispositif d'actionnement de ladite couronne de commande et
• un deuxième dispositif d'actionnement des premiers moyens de solidarisation.

The subject of the present invention is therefore an assembly comprising a first closed volume and a leaktight connection device between the first closed volume and a second closed volume, the first closed volume comprising a first flange and a first door sealing off an opening delimited by the first flange, and the second closed volume comprising a second flange and a second door sealing off a second opening delimited by the second flange, the second door being secured to the second flange by a bayonet connection, said connection device being mounted on a wall of the first closed volume and comprising:

• first means for securing the first and second flanges to each other,
• second securing and disengaging means intended to secure the second door and the first door in a leaktight manner and to disengage the second door from the second flange, the second means comprising a plate securing plate mounted mobile in rotation on an external face of the first door around the longitudinal axis and capable of being secured to an external face of the second door by a bayonet connection, said securing plate being such that a first part of the rotational movement of the securing plate is intended to secure the first door and the second door and a second part of the rotational movement of the securing plate is intended to unlock the second door with respect to the second flange,

• third means for releasing the first door relative to the first flange,
• fourth means for opening a passage between the first and the second closed volume,
• a control ring adapted to be rotated around a longitudinal axis, the rotation of said control ring actuating at least the second, third and fourth means,
  the assembly also comprising means for immobilizing the securing plate with respect to the first door in a first position in the absence of the second door and in a second position in the presence of the second door in a state in which the first door and the second door are secured and the second door is unlocked with respect to the second flange,
• a first device for actuating said control crown and
• a second device for actuating the first securing means.

In an exemplary embodiment, the immobilizing means comprise a cam and a cam follower, the cam being fixed on the first door and the cam follower being fixed on the fastening plate or vice versa.

Preferably, the cam follower is fixed on one face of the fastening plate facing the first door.

In an advantageous example, the cam comprises a cam track extending substantially along an arc of a circle and comprising at a first angular end, a first housing and at a second angular end a second housing, to house and immobilize the cam follower in one of the first and second positions, and at least a first ramp in extension of the first housing in the direction of the second housing , and a second ramp extending from the second housing towards the first housing.

For example, the cam path includes a track with a constant radius connecting the first ramp and the second ramp.

The cam follower may comprise a plate carrying a roller intended to circulate on the cam path and a fixed support relative to which the plate is configured to slide.

The first means advantageously comprise a securing ring mounted so as to be able to rotate with respect to the first flange around the longitudinal axis and comprise bayonet connection means for immobilizing the second flange with respect to the first flange. Preferably, a first part of the rotational movement of the securing plate secures the first door and the second door and a second part of the rotational movement of the securing plate unlocks the second door with respect to the second flange.

For example, the second means comprise at least one pinion meshing with a toothed actuating sector carried by the control crown, a rotational movement of the control crown causing a rotation of the fastening plate.

The second means may advantageously comprise a gear train coupled to the securing plate to set it in rotation, said gear train being driven by said pinion. The second means may comprise a spur gear meshing the first toothed sector and a bevel gear.

The assembly advantageously comprises means for locking the first door and the second door to each other when they are separated from the first and second flanges. For example, the locking means comprise a finger movably mounted in the securing plate, said finger being capable of being retracted into the securing plate when the second door is placed against the first door and capable of protruding from the securing disc when the securing disc secures the first and the second gate, the finger blocking with a stop the rotation of the second gate relative to the first gate.

Advantageously, the finger comprises a roller and the locking means comprise a cam carried by an outer face of the first door ensuring the return to the retracted position of the finger in the securing disc in the phase of separation of the first and second closed volumes.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first actuator device also forms the second actuation device, and comprises for example a crank disposed outside the first closed volume.

According to an additional characteristic, the first door is articulated with respect to the first flange around a hinge with an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and the fourth means comprise at least one pinion meshing with another toothed sector for actuating the crown control, said pinion being coupled to said hinge, the rotational movement of the control crown causing rotation of the first door around the hinge.

The control crown may include a toothed drive sector with a pinion of the second actuation means.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

• La figure 1 est une vue en perspective partielle d'un exemple de réalisation d'un dispositif de connexion entre une cellule et un conteneur, le conteneur étant représenté en transparence.
• La figure 2 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de connexion étanche vu de l'extérieur de la cellule.
• La figure 3 est une vue de détail en perspective des moyens de solidarisation axiale par encliquetage de la bride de conteneur et de la bride de cellule du dispositif de connexion étanche.
• La figure 4A est une vue en perspective des moyens de solidarisation axiale par encliquetage de la figure 3.
• La figure 4B est une vue de dessus des moyens de solidarisation de la figure 4A.
• La figure 4C est une vue en coupe de la figure 4B selon le plan I-I.
• La figure 4D est une vue de dessus des moyens de solidarisation de la figure 4A, le conteneur étant en place.
• La figure 4E est une vue en coupe de la figure 4D selon le plan II-II.
• La figure 5 est une vue de face de la bride de cellule et de la porte de cellule et du dispositif de connexion étanche selon l'invention, la couronne de commande et les moyens d'actionnement ayant été omis.
• La figure 6A est une vue en perspective du dispositif de connexion étanche vu de l'intérieur de la cellule, certains éléments étant représentés en transparence en l'absence de la porte de conteneur.
• La figure 6B est une vue similaire à celle de la figure 6A, le dispositif de connexion étanche étant représenté dans une position de verrouillage de la porte de cellule et de la porte de conteneur.
• La figure 7A est une vue du dispositif de connexion et une vue de détail à partir de la cellule en l'absence de la porte du conteneur.
• La figure 7B est une vue du dispositif de connexion et une vue de détail à partir du conteneur de la figure 7A.
• La figure 7C est une vue en coupe longitudinale du dispositif de connexion de la position de la figure 7A.
• La figure 8A est une vue du dispositif de connexion et une vue de détail à partir de la cellule dans une position intermédiaire en cours de verrouillage de la porte de la cellule et de la porte du conteneur.
• La figure 8B est une vue du dispositif de connexion et une vue de détail à partir du conteneur dans la position intermédiaire de la figure 8A, la porte du conteneur n'étant pas représentée.
• La figure 8C est une vue en coupe longitudinale du dispositif de connexion de la position de la figure 8A, la porte du conteneur étant représentée.
• La figure 9A est une vue du dispositif de connexion et une vue de détail à partir de la cellule dans une position de verrouillage de la porte de la cellule et de la porte du conteneur.
• La figure 9B est une vue du dispositif de connexion et une vue de détail à partir du conteneur dans la position de verrouillage de la figure 9A, la porte du conteneur n'étant pas représentée.
• La figure 9C est une vue en coupe longitudinale du dispositif de connexion de la position de la figure 9A, la porte du conteneur étant représentée.
• La figure 10 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de connexion étanche vu de l'intérieur de la cellule, certains éléments étant représentés en transparence dans une position de déverrouillage de la porte de cellule par rapport à la bride de cellule.
• La figure 11 est une vue en perspective en position ouverte du dispositif de connexion, le couvercle de conteneur ayant été omis.
• La figure 12 est une vue en coupe longitudinale illustrant schématiquement le raccordement d'un conteneur sur une cellule au moyen d'un dispositif de connexion étanche à double porte.
• La figure 13A est une vue en perspective isométrique partiellement coupée d'un capotage représenté de manière isolée du dispositif de connexion.
• La figure 13B est une vue représentant partiellement la coupe selon le plan III - III de la figure 13A.
• La figure 14A est une vue de dessus d'un autre mode de réalisation des moyens de solidarisation axiale par encliquetage.
• La figure 14B est une vue en perspective des moyens de solidarisation de la figure 14A.
• La figure 14C est une vue de face des moyens de solidarisation de la figure 14A à l'état non verrouillée.
• La figure 14D est une vue en coupe de la figure 14C selon le plan IV-IV.
• La figure 14E est une vue de face des moyens de solidarisation de la figure 14A, le conteneur étant en place mais n'étant pas représenté.
• La figure 14F est une vue en coupe de la figure 14E selon le plan V-V.
• La figure 15 est une représentation schématique du chemin de came des moyens d'indexation en position du plateau de solidarisation de la porte de la cellule et de la porte du conteneur.
• La figure 16 est une vue en coupe d'un suiveur de came selon un plan orthogonal à l'axe longitudinal X.

The present invention will be better understood using the following description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

• There figure 1 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of a connection device between a cell and a container, the container being represented in transparency.
• There figure 2 is a perspective view of the sealed connection device seen from outside the cell.
• There picture 3 is a perspective detail view of the means for axial attachment by snap-fastening of the container flange and the cell flange of the leaktight connection device.
• There figure 4A is a perspective view of the means for axial securing by snap-fastening of the picture 3 .
• There figure 4B is a top view of the securing means of the figure 4A .
• There Fig. 4C is a sectional view of the figure 4B according to plan II.
• There 4D figure is a top view of the securing means of the figure 4A , the container being in place.
• There Figure 4E is a sectional view of the 4D figure according to plan II-II.
• There figure 5 is a front view of the cell flange and of the cell door and of the sealed connection device according to the invention, the control crown and the actuating means having been omitted.
• There Figure 6A is a perspective view of the sealed connection device seen from inside the cell, certain elements being shown in transparency in the absence of the container door.
• There figure 6B is a view similar to that of the Figure 6A , the sealed connection device being shown in a locking position of the cell door and the container door.
• There Figure 7A is a view of the connection device and a detail view from the cell in the absence of the container door.
• There figure 7B is a view of the connection device and a detail view from the container of the Figure 7A .
• There Fig. 7C is a longitudinal sectional view of the connection device from the position of the Figure 7A .
• There figure 8A is a view of the connection device and a detail view from the cell in an intermediate position during locking of the cell door and the container door.
• There figure 8B is a view of the connection device and a detail view from the container in the intermediate position of the figure 8A , the container door not being shown.
• There Fig. 8C is a longitudinal sectional view of the connection device from the position of the figure 8A , the container door being shown.
• There figure 9A is a view of the connection device and a detail view from the cell in a locked position of the cell door and the container door.
• There Figure 9B is a view of the connection device and a detail view from the container in the locking position of the figure 9A , the container door not being shown.
• There figure 9C is a longitudinal sectional view of the connection device from the position of the figure 9A , the container door being shown.
• There figure 10 is a perspective view of the sealed connection device seen from inside the cell, certain elements being shown in transparency in a position of unlocking the cell door with respect to the cell flange.
• There figure 11 is a perspective view in the open position of the connection device, the container lid having been omitted.
• There figure 12 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically illustrating the connection of a container to a cell by means of a sealed connection device with a double door.
• There Figure 13A is a partially cutaway isometric perspective view of a cover shown in isolation from the connection device.
• There Figure 13B is a view partially representing the section according to plan III - III of the Figure 13A .
• There Figure 14A is a top view of another embodiment of the axial fastening means by snap-fastening.
• There Figure 14B is a perspective view of the securing means of the Figure 14A .
• There Fig. 14C is a front view of the securing means of the Figure 14A in unlocked state.
• There figure 14D is a sectional view of the Fig. 14C according to plan IV-IV.
• There Figure 14E is a front view of the securing means of the Figure 14A , the container being in place but not being shown.
• There figure 14F is a sectional view of the Figure 14E according to plan VV.
• There figure 15 is a schematic representation of the cam track of the position indexing means of the plate for securing the door of the cell and the door of the container.
• There figure 16 is a sectional view of a cam follower along a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X.

DETAILED DISCUSSION OF PARTICULAR EMBODIMENTS

The terms "upstream" and "downstream" are considered in the sense of installation of the container in the connection device.

In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the two closed volumes which it is desired to connect with the aid of a sealed connection device with a double door provided with the control mechanism according to the invention correspond respectively to a cell of containment 10 and a container 12. It will however be understood that the invention is also applicable in the case where the closed volumes are for example a glove box for one and a container or two glove boxes for the other.

According to figure 12 , one can see a schematic representation of the cell 10 and the container 12 in a connected state and in a disconnected state.

The cell 10 is delimited by a wall 14 of which only a part is visible on the figure 12 . It is equipped, in a conventional manner, with remote manipulation means such as telemanipulators and/or gloves (not shown) integral with the wall 14. The container 12 is also delimited by a wall 16, as illustrated in particular by the figure 12 .

The cell comprises a cell flange 18 mounted in a leaktight manner in a wall 14 of the cell and delimiting an opening 20 closed in a leaktight manner by a removable door 22, called the cell door or door.

The container comprises a tank 24 and a container flange 26 sealed off by a removable door 28. For clarity, the door of container 28 will be designated "container lid" or "lid" to clearly distinguish it from the cell door. The tank 24, the container flange 26 and the cover 28 define a sealed volume. The lid 28 is secured to the container flange by a bayonet connection 29.

The sealed connection device comprises the cell flange 18, the container flange 26, the cell door 22 and the container cover 28. The cell door 22 is hinged to the cell flange 18 by a hinge 30 of axis Y orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X.

The axial direction corresponds to the axis of the cell flange 18 and of the door 22, and as well as that of the container flange 26 and of the cover 28 when these are secured to the cell. The axial direction is represented by the X axis which is the axis of the connection device.

On the figures 1 to 11 , one can see represented in detail an embodiment of a sealed connection device according to the invention. The connection device is mounted on the cell wall around the opening 20. The connection device is movable relative to the cell wall 14.

The connection device comprises first securing means A of the container flange 26 on the cell flange 18.

In the example shown, the container flange 26 has four lugs 32 arranged at 90° to each other projecting radially outward from the container flange 26. The container flange 26 could have two lugs, three lugs or more than four ears, furthermore the angular arrangement is not limiting.

The first means A comprise a fastening ring 100 mounted coaxial with the cell flange 18 on the outer face of the latter and capable of pivoting with respect to it around the longitudinal axis X.

In the example shown, the fastening ring 100 comprises four cavities 102 each intended to receive a lug 32 of the container flange 26. The rotation of the fastening ring 100 in the counterclockwise direction ensures fastening by bayonet connection between the flange of container 26 and the securing ring 100 and therefore between the container flange 26 and the cell flange 18. The cavities 102 have a first part extending axially 102.1 allowing the insertion and removal of the lugs 32 in an axial direction and a second part 102.2 extending laterally with respect to the axial part in a downstream zone. The second part 102.2 receives the lugs 32 when the fastening ring 100 has pivoted, ensuring axial retention of the lugs 32 and therefore of the container flange 26 with respect to the cell flange 18.

In the example shown, the securing ring 100 is rotatably mounted on the cell flange 18 by means of four rollers 106. It will be understood that the number of rollers is not limiting.

Advantageously, sensors are provided to know the different states of the system: door closed, door open, door being opened or being closed, etc., for example by detecting the movement and/or the position of the connection, more particularly in a motorized embodiment and in an embodiment in which the operator would not be able to visually identify the state in which the system is located.

The control mechanism comprises a device 108 for actuating the fastening ring 100 in rotation around the longitudinal axis X.

The actuating device 108 is advantageously arranged outside the cell so that it can be activated by the operator from the outside. In the example shown, this actuation device 108 comprises a crank 110. Any other mechanical actuation device is possible. As a variant, provision could be made to motorize the actuation of the fastening ring 100. The motorized means could then be located inside the cell.

The securing ring 100 comprises a radially outer toothed sector 112 which is meshed by a pinion 114 of the actuation device 108. This actuation device is simple and robust. Other means for transmitting the movement between the actuating means and the fastening ring could be provided.

Very advantageously, the sealed connection device comprises a system for axially holding the container against the wall of the cell.

Preferably, this holding system comprises at least one snap-fit axial holding device 34 intended to hold the container flange 26 axially with respect to the cell flange 18, as shown in the diagrams. figures 1 to 4E And 5 .

This holding device, hereinafter referred to as a snap device, is intended to be implemented prior to the joining of the two flanges 18, 26 by the joining ring 100. For example, the device is particularly advantageous for ensuring the holding of the container on the wall 14 of the cell when the container is intended to be positioned horizontally for example for transfer. This snap-fastening device then makes assembly of the container on the cell easier for the operator since he is no longer required to maintain, for example, the container at arm's length until the container flange 26 is secured to the cell flange 18 by the fastening ring 100.

In the example shown, the connection device comprises a snap device at two diametrically opposite lugs 32 of the container flange 26. The snap devices 34 are located diametrically opposite on the cell flange 18.

On the figure 3 , 4A to 4E , one can see in more detail an embodiment of a snap-fastening device 34.

The two snap-in devices being similar, only one of the two devices will be described. The snap-fastening device 34 comprises a base 36 fixed to the cell flange 18 at the periphery of the opening 20, an actuating rod 38 articulated in rotation on the base 36 around an axis Y1 perpendicular to the axial direction and to the diametrical direction of the cell flange 18.

The latching device 34 also comprises a locking link 40 hinged in rotation on the base 36 about an axis Y2 parallel to the axis Y1, and a return means 42 of the locking link 40 towards an unlocked position. The return means 42 is fixed to the base and to the locking rod 40. The actuating rod 38 and the locking rod 40 are in contact by one of their ends 38.1, 40.1 respectively, so that a pivoting of the actuating rod 38 in the clockwise direction causes a rotation of the rod lock 40 clockwise. The ends 38.2, 40.2 of the rods are located on the side of the opening 20.

The snap-fastening device 34 also comprises locking means for locking the locking rod 40 in a locked state. The locking means comprise a finger 44 articulated in rotation on the base 36 about an axis perpendicular to the axes Y1 and Y2 so that one end of the finger 44 can approach and move away from the locking link 40. An elastic return means, such as a spring (not visible) pushes the finger 44 in the direction of the link. As a variant, the finger 44 can be formed of a blade which deforms elastically in bending and integrating the elastic return means.

The operation of the snap-in device is as follows and is shown in the figures 4D and 4E . A lug 32 of the container flange 26 is approached in the direction of the arrow F towards the snap-fastening device, until it comes to bear by a first transverse face against the actuating rod 38. Under the force applied by the ear 32 towards the cell 10, the actuating link 38 pivots around its axis Y1 clockwise, causing the rotation in the clockwise direction of the locking link 40 around its axis Y2. The locking rod 40 then comes to bear by its other end 40.2 against a second transverse face 32.2 of the lug 32 opposite the first transverse face 32.1. The lug 32 is then held axially against the cell flange 18. Furthermore, the pivoting of the locking rod 40 in the clockwise direction is such that the finger 44 passes over the end 40.2 of the locking rod 40 locking it bearing against the lug 32. The finger 44 is pivoted so as to move it away from the end 40.2 of the locking link 40 in order to release the latter. This release takes place when it is desired to separate the container from the cell flange. The pivoting of the finger 44 can be obtained by means of an actuator (not shown) or a slight rotation of the container.

On the figures 14A to 14F Another particularly advantageous embodiment of a snap-fastening device 34' is shown, this differs from the device 34 in that it implements a locking cam, which reduces the number of moving parts, increasing the reliability of the device and simplifying its manufacture.

The snap-fastening device 34' comprises a base 36' fixed to the cell flange 18 at the periphery of the opening 20, a locking cam 40' articulated in rotation on the base 36' around an axis Y2' perpendicular to the axial direction and the diametral direction of the flange 18, and a return means 42' of the locking cam 40' towards an unlocked position. The return means 42' is fixed to the base and to the locking cam 40'.

The locking cam comprises, on a face oriented towards the longitudinal axis of the device, a downstream zone 40.1' in the direction of insertion of the flange in the latching means forming an actuation zone and an upstream zone 40.2' forming a stop.

The actuation zone 40.1' forms a cam surface projecting towards the inside of the device in the unlocked position so that when the flange of the container is brought closer to the latching means, one of its lugs 32 comes into contact with the cam surface 40.1' causing it to pivot and arranging the abutment zone 40.2' opposite the rear face of the ear, preferably in contact with the latter, preventing removal of the ear.

The ratchet device 34' also comprises locking means for blocking the locking cam 40' in a locked state. The locking means comprise a finger 44' articulated in rotation on the base 36' around an axis perpendicular to the axis Y2' so that one end of the finger 44' can approach and move away from the cam lock 40'. An elastic return means, such as a spring (not visible) pushes the finger 44' in the direction of the cam 40'. As a variant, the finger 44' can be formed from a blade which deforms elastically in bending and integrating the elastic return means.

The operation of the snap-in device is as follows and is shown in the figures 14C and 14F .

A lug 32 of the container flange 26 is approached in the direction of the arrow F towards the snap-fastening means, until it comes to bear by a first transverse face against the cam surface 40.1'. Under the force applied by the lug 32 towards the cell 10, the locking cam 40' pivots around its axis Y2' in the clockwise direction. The abutment zone 40.2' of the locking cam 40' then comes to bear against a rear face of the lug 32. The lug 32 is then held axially against the cell flange 18. Furthermore, the pivoting of the cam 40' in the clockwise direction is such that the finger 44' passes over the abutment zone 40.2' locking it in contact with the lug 32. In order to release the locking cam 40', the finger 44' is away from the stop zone. This release takes place when it is desired to separate the container from the cell flange. The pivoting of the finger 44' can be obtained by means of an actuator (not shown) or by a slight rotation of the container.

In the example shown, two snap-fastening axial holding devices are provided.

In an advantageous variant, a single snap-fastening axial holding device can be provided and instead of the second snap-fastening device, a base comprising a groove in the shape of an arc of a circle opening radially towards the longitudinal axis X capable of accommodate a lug 32 and maintain it axially. One lug is then engaged in the groove, ensuring its axial retention, then the other lug 32 is engaged in the snap-in device.

Alternatively, the axial holding system could implement magnetic means, the cell flange 18 and the container flange 26 would then be held by magnetization.

Preferably, in the case of a vertical cell wall, the snap-fit axial retaining device is located in the lower zone of the cell flange and the base provided with the groove is located in the upper zone of the cell flange. cell.

Alternatively, a system with more than two snap-on retainers is possible.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the snap-in device or devices cooperate with the securing ring 100.

As shown on the figure 1 And 3 , the snap-in devices are located downstream of two radially opposite cavities of the fastening ring 100, in the direction of insertion of the lugs 32 into the fastening ring 100.

Thus, after the ears 32 have been introduced into the cavities 102, they engage the actuating rods 38 which causes the locking rods to tilt, holding the ears axially.

In the absence of the container flange, the end 40.2 of the locking rod 40 is located in the upper zone of the first part 102.1 of the window 102 when no container is in place and enters a notch 102.3 made in the first part 102. The locking rods 40 then also ensure rotational locking of the fastening ring 100 in the absence of a container. Thus any manipulation of the crown 100 in the absence of the container is avoided.

In this particularly advantageous embodiment, the container flange 26 is held axially by the snap-fastening device(s) 34 and then the cell flange 18 and the container flange 26 are secured by the securing ring 100.

Snap-fastening holding devices are very advantageous in particular when the cell wall is in a vertical or inclined plane, so when the container is held by the means 34, the operator can easily actuate the first means A.

The sealed connection device also comprises second means B intended to secure the container lid 28 and the cell door 22 and to unlock the lid.

The connection device also comprises third means C for releasing the cell door from the cell flange, and fourth means D for releasing the passage between the interior of the container and the interior of the cell.

The sealed connection device advantageously has a common system for actuating the second and third means.

The common actuation system is formed by a control ring 48 rotatably mounted on the cell flange 18 around the axial direction and arranged outside the cell in the example shown. In the example shown, the control crown 48 is a toothed crown whose teeth are oriented radially outward from the control crown 48. The common actuation system comprises an actuation device intended to set the control ring 48 around the longitudinal axis X. Very advantageously, the actuating device is formed by the actuating device 108 of the securing ring 100, which makes it possible to simplify the structure and reduce its cost of come back. Alternatively, a separate actuator may be provided.

On the figure 2 , we can see the ring gear 48. This is mounted upstream of the securing ring 100 in the direction of installation of the container and has an inside diameter greater than the outside diameter of the securing ring 100 to allow penetration of the container flange 26 in the fastening ring 100.

On the Figure 6A , we can see the securing crown 100 whose toothed sector 112 is meshed by the pinion 114 and the toothed crown 48 is meshed by a pinion 52 coaxial with the pinion 114.

The control ring 48 comprises a drive toothing 48.1 meshed by the pinion 52 which ensures its rotation and toothed sectors intended to actuate the various means of the connection device. In the example shown, the toothed sector 48.1 extends over only part of the periphery of the control crown 48, the angle over which the drive sector extends is determined to allow the actuation of the various means B, C, D. As a variant, a drive sector could cover the entire periphery of the control ring 100.

The control crown 48 is advantageously held axially and radially by rollers 54 which allow the rotation of the toothed crown 48 around the axial direction while limiting friction.

The second means B, third C and fourth D are arranged on the periphery of the toothed crown 48 and are actuated successively by rotating the crown.

The second securing means B of the cell door 22 and of the container cover 28 comprise an inter-door securing plate designated 80.

The inter-door securing plate 80 is rotatably mounted on the cell door 22. The locking of the cell door 22 and of the container cover 28 is obtained by a bayonet connection. In the example shown, the securing plate 80 has four lugs 82 projecting radially outwards and the cover 28 has a hollow indentation provided with four radially outer notches to receive the lugs of the securing plate 80 and a peripheral groove connecting the notches. A relative rotation of the fastening plate 80 and the cover 28 ensures at least partial masking of the ears of the fastening plate 80 forming an axial stop for the ears 82 and an axial fastening of the fastening plate and the cover 28.

The securing plate 80 is set in rotation by the actuation of the control crown 48. In the example represented, the second means B, more particularly visible on the Figure 13A , comprise a pinion 62 with straight teeth meshed by a first toothed sector 48.2 for actuation of the control crown 48, a bevel pinion 64 integral in rotation with the pinion 62. In the example shown, they are located at the two ends of the same axis. The bevel pinion 64 meshes with a bevel pinion 65 which forms the input to a chain of gears, the gears being designated 66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 77. The pinion 77 meshes with a sector tooth or rack 78 integral in rotation with the inter-door securing plate 80 as can be seen in the figure 10 .

The assembly formed by the sprockets 62, 64 and the gear chain makes it possible to reduce the rotational torque of the handle and facilitate handling by the operator.

On the figures 13A and 13B , one can see represented in an isolated way the chain of gears making it possible to put in rotation the fixing plate 80. The chain of gear is received in a cowling 81 also visible on the Figures 6A, 6B , 7A , 8A And 10 , ensuring the watertight passage between the outside and the inside of the cell. In the example shown, the cowling comprises three parts 81.1, 81.2, 81.3 hinged relative to each other in a sealed manner by means of seals 69.

Parts 81.1 and 81.3, designated blocks, are identical. The part 81.2 placed between the parts 81.1 and 81.3 is called "arm".

The articulation between the two blocks 81.1, 81.3 and the arm 81.2 allows the door of the cell 22 to be opened. The rotation is ensured by bearings. As a variant, stages could be implemented.

Block 81.1 receives part of the gear chain controlling the inter-door plate 80. Block 81.3 receives opening means D.

In the example shown, the block 81.1 comprises a sleeve 81.11 surrounding the shaft connecting the pinions 62 and 64.

Block 81.3 also includes sleeve 81.31 ( Figure 13B ).

The arm 81.2 surrounds the axis connecting the pinions 76 and 77. The sleeves 81.11 and 81.21 pass through the cell flange and the door 22 in a sealed manner respectively, static seals are interposed between the sleeves 81.11, 81.31 and the cell flange 18 and between sleeve 81.21 and cell door 22.

As a variant and in particular in the case of a device of small diameter for which the efforts are less, it is possible to envisage that the cowling comprises only one block and one arm, the opening means D then being combined with the securing means B in this case, provision can be made for the block to be made in a single piece with the flange, which makes it possible not to have to resort to seals to achieve sealing between the block and the flange.

The gear chain has two larger pins 67, 73 between gears 65 and 66 and between gears 72 and 74 respectively. As a variant, these axes with their gears could be replaced by sprockets with chains or by pulleys with a system of belts or chains.

A first phase of the rotation of the inter-door securing plate 80 ensures the axial locking of the door 22 and the lid 28 and a second phase of rotation of the securing plate 80 rotates the lid 28 relative to the container flange 26 and ensures unlocking of the cover 28 relative to the container flange 26.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the mechanism comprises locking means 118 preventing the separation of the cell door 22 and the cover 28 when the passage between the interior of the container and the interior of the cell is open, i.e. when the assembly door and cover is in the position detached from the cell and container flanges.

The means 118 are visible on the Figure 6A and cut on the Figs. 7C , 8C And 9C . THE Figs. 7C , 8C And 9C represent a view in longitudinal section passing through the means 118, but these means carried by the plate 80 rotate around the axis during the connection and disconnection phases, with respect to the container door 28 and the cell door 22. Therefore the Figs. 7C , 8C And 9C show rotated views of the container door and the cell door during the different phases.

The locking means 118 are arranged between the upstream face of the cell door and the downstream face of the plate 80.

The locking means 118 comprise a finger 120 projecting radially from the plate 80 in a zone between two lugs of the plate 80. The finger 120 is capable of being retracted axially inside the plate 80. An elastic means 122, for example a coil spring in the example shown, returns the finger 120 to the outside of the plate 80 in the upstream direction. Finger 120 is visible on the picture 2 .

The locking means 118 also comprise a roller support 124, carrying the finger 120, which is arranged between the door 22 and the plate 80 and a roller 126 able to roll around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

The locking means 118 also comprise a frame 128 fixed to the plate 80 which carries an axis 130 parallel to the longitudinal axis X on which is mounted able to slide the roller support 124. The spring 122 is mounted in compression between the support roller 124 and the frame 128 around the axis 130.

The locking means 118 also comprise a cam 132 formed by a ramp fixed to the cell door, the cam 132 having the shape of an arc of a circle centered on the longitudinal axis X.

The operation of the locking means 118 is as follows. In the unlocked state, ie in the absence of the container door, the finger 120 protrudes radially from the securing plate ( Fig. 7C ). The roller 126 is in the depressed position recalled by the spring 122, it is not visible on the Fig. 7C .

When the container flange 26 is placed in the fastening ring 100, the lugs of the container cover 28 are placed between the lugs 82 of the fastening plate 80, one of them comes into contact with the finger 120 and due to the axial displacement of the container pushes the finger 120 which penetrates into the plate 80 against the restoring force of the spring 122. The roller 126 is released from the cam 132 ( Fig. 8C ).

A new rotation of the ring gear 48 causes rotation of the plate, the roller 126 is also driven in rotation and rolls on the cam 132 until the roller 126 is positioned in the lower part of the cam 132 ( figure 6B ).

The finger 120 has then pivoted sufficiently to no longer face the lug of the container lid 28. However, due to the restoring force of the spring 122, the finger is pushed outwards from the plate 80 and forms a stop in rotation for the ear which is therefore blocked by the finger 120 ( figure 9C ).

The device also comprises means 134 for immobilizing the securing means B in a first position in the absence of the door of the container and in a second position in the presence of the door 28 of the container which is locked by the finger 120.

The immobilization means 134 are carried by the securing plate 80 and the door 22 of the cell. In the example shown and advantageously, the immobilization means 134 are located partly on a face of the plate 80 opposite the face intended to face the door 28 of the container. So they are protected.

In the example shown, the immobilization means 134 comprise a cam 136 carried by the door 22 and a cam follower 138 carried by the securing plate 80.

On the figure 7B , 8B And 9C as well as on the figures 15 and 16 , we can see the cam 136 and the cam follower 138.

The cam 136 has the shape of an arc of a circle and extends angularly between a first angular end defining a first immobilization position Pos1 in which the securing plate 80 is maintained in the absence of the door 28 of the container and a second angular position Pos5, in which the fastening plate 80 is maintained in the presence of the container door 28 and ensures the maintenance of the fastening of the two doors 22, 28. A cam path CH extends between the two angular positions Pos1 and Pos5.

The cam follower 138 extends radially and comprises a roller 140 held in abutment against the cam track CH by an elastic means 142, for example a helical spring in the example shown.

On the figure 16 , we can see a sectional view of the cam follower in a plane orthogonal to the X axis.

The cam follower comprises a support 144 fixed on the plate 80, a plate 146 carrying the roller 140 which is rotatable about an axis parallel to the axis X. The spring 142 is mounted in reaction between the support 144 and the plate 146. The plate 146 and the roller 140 are movable along the radial direction to allow the roller 140 to follow the profile of the cam track CH.

In the example shown, two pins 150 are mounted in two parallel passages passing through the support 144 and are fitted at their free end in the plate 146. The two pins are able to slide in the support 144 and form sliding guides for the platinum 146.

Advantageously bearings 154, for example made of stainless steel, are mounted in the passages 152 to facilitate the sliding of the axes 150.

In the example shown and also advantageously, the support 144 also includes a cavity 156 intended to receive one end of the spring 142. Advantageously the cavity 156 is formed by a through passage 158 closed by a screw 160, facilitating the assembly of the spring 142.

Alternatively, the bottom of cavity 156 could be integral with support 144, spring 142 would then be mounted by the open end of cavity 156 opposite plate 146.

Advantageously, the other end of the spring 142 is received in a cavity 162 of the plate 146.

It will be understood that other embodiments of the cam follower allowing the roller to follow the cam path do not depart from the scope of the present invention.

In the example shown in the figure 15 , the cam track CH has several portions between the positions Pos1 and Pos5. In the example shown, the cam track CH comprises a first and a second housing 164, 166 at each of the ends of the track, intended to accommodate the roller 140 (shown in dotted lines) of the cam follower, and ensuring the immobilization of the plate 80 at its two extreme positions. In the example shown, the housings 164 and 166 have different shapes advantageously allowing the mechanical clearances of the rotations of the container to be accepted. As a variant, the housings 164 and 166 are identical.

The cam track CH comprises a track 170 with a constant radius and a first ramp R1 connecting the track 170 to the first housing 164, and a second ramp R2 connecting the track 170 to the second housing 166.

The slopes of the ramps R1 and R2 condition at least in part the force required to get the roller 140 out of the housings 164, 166. Thus, by choosing the values of the slopes one can modify the rendering at the level of the operator. In addition, the ramps offer assistance when the roller approaches one or the other of the positions Pos1 and Pos5. The values of the slopes are used to adjust the assistance.

It will be understood that the ramp path can have very different profiles. It may not be symmetrical, for example the slopes of ramps R1 and R2 may be different. The ramp or ramps may include one or more successive slopes to create progressive renderings. As a further variant, it is possible to envisage the cam track not comprising a track with a constant radius but only ramps.

The operation of the immobilization means 164 will now be described using the figures 7A to 9C And 15 .

In the absence of a container, the connection device is in the state represented on the figures 7A to 7C . The cam follower 138 is in the position designated Pos1 on the figure 15 , the roller 140 is housed in the housing 164 and the plate 80 is immobilized angularly.

Then the door 28 of the container is placed against the door 22 of the cell. Finger 120 is pushed back ( Fig. 8C ).

The securing plate 80 is pivoted, which causes the simultaneous rotation of the roller 126 on the ramp 132, and of the roller 140 of the cam follower 138 on the cam 136, which comes out of the housing 164, circulates on the ramp R1 (Pos2) then on the track (Pos3 and Pos4) ( figure 8A , 8B And 8C ).

When the door 28 of the container is secured to the door 22 of the enclosure and is unlocked, the roller 140 has crossed the ramp R2 and lodged in the housing 166 (Pos5) ( figure 9A , 9B And 9C ). The securing plate 80 is then immobilized.

The angle between the Pos1 and Pos2 positions depends on the construction of the platter, in particular the angular extension of the cam 136.

In the example shown, cam follower 138 and roller 126 are diametrically opposed. Alternatively cam follower 138 and roller 126, and more generally the securing means 134 and the locking means 118 are arranged relative to each other at an angle of less than 180°.

Alternatively the cam 136 is carried by the securing plate 80 and the cam follower 138 is carried by the door 22 of the enclosure.

The third means C for keeping the cell door closed against the cell flange 18 are visible for example on the figure 6B in the closed position and on the figure 10 in the open position.

The door 22 is locked in the closed position on the cell flange 18 by means of a locking cam 84 which is fixed on the interior face of the cell door 22 and a locking roller 86. The locking roller 86 is rotatably mounted on the cell flange 18 about an axis parallel to the axial direction X between a locking position in which the locking roller 86 is in contact with the locking cam 84 and locks the door in the closed position against the cell flange 18, and an unlocking position, in which the locking roller 86 is moved away from the locking cam, and allows disengagement of the cell door 22 from the cell flange 18.

The locking roller 86 is carried by a roller carrier, one axial end of which comprises an actuating roller 88 which cooperates with a radial cam surface 48.3 of the toothed wheel 48 ( Figure 6A ).

As a variant, provision could be made for the locking roller holder to comprise a pinion meshing with a toothed sector of the toothed wheel.

Advantageously, in the locked position, the locking cam 84 cooperates with safety means mounted on the interior face of the door in order to detect the locked position of the cam 84. The fourth means D for opening the door 22 and the cover 28 and thus allow sealed transfer between the container and the cell, are visible on the figures 6A And 11 .

The opening means D rotate the cell door 22 and the lid 28 secured to each other by the securing plate 80 around the hinge 30. In the example shown, the means D comprise a first straight tooth pinion 90 meshing a second toothed sector (not visible) of the crown toothed 48 a bevel pinion 92 integral in rotation with the pinion 90. In the example shown, they are located at both ends of the same axis. The bevel pinion 92 meshes with a bevel pinion 94 coaxial with the axis of the hinge 30 and integral in rotation with the latter. Thus the ring gear 48, by driving the pinion 90, causes a rotation of the bevel gear 94 which drives the cell door 22 in rotation around its hinge 30 and allows the transfer between the interior of the container and the interior of the cell. .

Gaskets are provided between the lid and the container flange, between the cell door and the cell flange and between the external faces of the cell door and the lid so as to ensure a tight contact between the door 22 and the lid. 28 and ensure containment of these faces which are in contact with the external environment when they are not in contact.

The ring gear 48 is made up of several angular actuation sectors, each controlling separate means. Depending on the angle of rotation of the ring gear, a pinion is meshed by the ring gear driving given means. The means are not actuated simultaneously but successively and in an order given by the arrangement of the angular sectors in a given direction of rotation. In the example shown, the toothed actuating sectors are arranged in separate planes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, which are separate from the plane containing the toothed drive sector.

We will now describe a cycle for placing the interior volume of the container in communication with that of the cell by means of the connection device according to the invention, considering a vertical cell wall.

The container flange 26, in which the cover 28 is arranged, is introduced into the fastening ring 100, the lugs 32 of the container flange 26 enter the cavities 104. One of the lugs pushes the finger 120. In addition , two diametrically opposed lugs 32 come into contact with the actuating rods 38, cause their pivoting in the clockwise direction and the pivoting of the locking rods 40. The finger 44 blocks the locking rods 40 in position. The container flange 26 is then held against the wall 14 of the cell. The operator can let go of the container.

The operator then turns the crank 108 clockwise, which rotates the fastening ring 100 counterclockwise, which is free to rotate, since the locking rods 40 have tilted, their ends 40.2 having come free notches 102.3. The securing crown 100 rotates, the lugs 32 are then held by a bayonet connection thanks to the securing crown 100. The container flange 26 is then secured to the cell flange 18.

Then, the operator again turns the crank 108 clockwise, which rotates the ring gear 48 counterclockwise, the toothed sector 48.2 engages the pinion 62 which causes the rotation of the securing plate 80. The plate 80 then secures cell door 22 and container cover 28. Simultaneously roller 126 rolls on ramp 132 to its low position and finger 120 is pushed out of plate 80 figure 6B ), one of the ears of the cover 28 is then locked against the finger 120. Simultaneously the roller 140 of the cam follower of the securing means is housed in the second housing 166, immobilizing the securing plate 80. No rotation of the cover 28 with respect to the door 22 of the cell is possible in the absence of manipulation of the securing plate.

The operator still turns the crank 108 clockwise, the toothed sector 48.2 moves away from the pinion 62 and the radial cam path meets the actuating roller 88 causing the roller holder to pivot and the locking roller to move apart. 86 of the locking cam 84. The door 22 is then released from the cell flange 18.

The operator still turns the crank 108 clockwise, the toothed sector engages the pinion 90, causing the rotation of the door 22 and the cover 28 around the hinge 30.

The passage between the interior of the cell and the interior of the container is then opened as shown in the figure 11 (Lid 28 not shown).

In this position, the lid cannot be separated from the door due to the presence of the finger 120. The movement of an ear of the lid 28 is limited by the finger 120 and a stop 135, formed by a pin fixed in the plate 80. In the example shown, four stops 135 are distributed over the plate 80. The cover 28 therefore cannot pivot sufficiently with respect to the door 22 to separate them. The retraction of the finger 120 is only possible by setting the securing plate 80 in rotation in the opposite direction, but this rotation in the opposite direction is only possible after closing the access between the two volumes. Therefore, the separation of the cover and the door is prevented when the passage between the cell and the container is open. Thus there is no risk of pollution of the interior of one or the other of the volumes by the external faces of the cell and of the container.

• la remise en place de la porte 22 et du couvercle 28 dans leur bride respective 18, 26,
• puis le retour en position du galet de verrouillage 86 dans la came de verrouillage 84,
• la rotation dans le sens horaire du plateau 80 ce qui verrouille le couvercle 28 dans la bride de conteneur 26 et désolidarise la porte 22 et le couvercle 26,
• simultanément le doigt 120 pénètre dans le plateau 80 grâce à la came 132,
• la couronne de solidarisation 100 pivote alors dans le sens horaire, libérant les oreilles 32 de la bride de conteneur 26,
• enfin les dispositifs à encliquetage 34 sont désactivés de sorte à libérer les biellettes de verrouillage 40. Le conteneur peut alors être retiré de la couronne de solidarisation.

Closing of the passage and separation of the container from the cell is carried out following the above steps in reverse order. To do this, the operator pivots the crank 108 counterclockwise, causing:

• the replacement of the door 22 and the cover 28 in their respective flange 18, 26,
• then the return to position of the locking roller 86 in the locking cam 84,
• the clockwise rotation of the plate 80 which locks the lid 28 in the container flange 26 and separates the door 22 and the lid 26,
• simultaneously the finger 120 enters the plate 80 thanks to the cam 132,
• the fastening ring 100 then pivots clockwise, releasing the lugs 32 from the container flange 26,
• finally the snap-fastening devices 34 are deactivated so as to release the locking rods 40. The container can then be removed from the fastening ring.

The connection device allows a connection between a container and a safe cell by avoiding any malfunction due to the seals between the door of the container and the door of the cell.

In addition, the connection device allows connection without rotation of the container, which simplifies the operations for the operator and makes it possible to handle fragile objects contained in the container.

The connection device can offer greater ease of cleaning since it can comprise no element inside the cell. The whole mechanism is outside the cell.

The external control offers greater maneuverability for the operator.

The connection device also makes it possible to improve the closing/opening rates per day, allowing a gain in productivity, all the transfer steps being done by manipulation of the external crank or by activation of the motor.

It also has easy maintenance and repair due to its simple structure, all the more so when its actuating means are located outside the cell. Furthermore, the arrangement of the actuating means on the outside allows motorization of the device in a very simple manner. By arranging the actuating means outside the cell, the latter is no longer in contact with the sterilizing agent, which reduces the risks of damage and malfunction.

In addition, safety is improved, since in the case of actuation from the outside, it is no longer necessary to access the inside of the cell by means of gloves fitted tightly through a wall of the cell to operate the mechanism or for maintenance.

As a variant, it can be envisaged that the securing crown 100 is rotated via the toothed crown 48, the toothed crown would then be the single control member for all the steps.

Claims (16)

1. An assembly including a first enclosed volume and a sealed connection device between the first enclosed volume and a second enclosed volume, the first enclosed volume including a first flange (18) and a first door (22) sealingly closing an opening delimited by the first flange (18), and the second enclosed volume including a second flange (26) and a second door (28) sealingly closing a second opening delimited by the second flange (26), the second door (28) being secured to the second flange (26) by a bayonet connection, said connection device being mounted on a wall of the first enclosed volume and comprising:

   - first means (A) for securing the first and second flanges to each other,

   - second securing and disengaging means (B) intended to sealingly secure the second door and the first door and to disengage the second door from the second flange, the second means (B) including a securing plate (80) mounted movable in rotation on an outer face of the first door (22) about a longitudinal axis (X) and capable of being secured to an outer face of the second door (28) by a bayonet connection, said securing plate (80) being such that a first part of the rotational displacement of the securing plate (80) is intended to secure the first door (22) and the second door (28) and a second part of the rotational displacement of the securing plate (80) is intended to unlock the second door (28) relative to the second flange (26),

   - third means (C) for releasing the first door relative to the first flange (18),

   - fourth means (D) for opening a passage between the first and the second enclosed volume,

   - a control ring (48) capable of being rotated about the longitudinal axis (X), the rotation of said control ring (48) actuating at least the second (B), third (C) and fourth (D) means,
   the assembly also including means (134) for immobilising the securing plate (80) relative to the first door (22) in a first position (Pos1) in the absence of the second door (28) and in a second position (Pos5) in the presence of the second door in a state wherein the first door (22) and the second door (28) are secured and the second door (28) is unlocked relative to the second flange (26),

   - a first device for actuating said control ring and

   - a second device for actuating the first securing means.
2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the immobilisation means (134) include a cam (136) and a cam follower (138), the cam (136) being fixed to the first door (22) and the cam follower (138) being fixed to the securing plate (80) or vice versa.
3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the cam follower (138) is fixed to a face of the securing plate (80) opposite the first door (22).
4. The assembly according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the cam (136) includes a cam path (CH) extending substantially along an arc of a circle and comprising at a first angular end, a first housing (164) and at a second angular end a second housing (166), for housing and immobilising the cam follower (138) in one of the first (Pos1) and second positions (Pos5), and at least one first ramp (R1) in continuation of the first housing (164) in the direction of the second housing (166), and a second ramp (R2) in continuation of the second housing (166) in the direction of the first housing (164).
5. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein the cam path (CH) includes a track (170) with constant radius connecting the first ramp (R1) and the second ramp (R2).
6. The assembly according to claim 2, 3, 4 or 5, wherein the cam follower (138) includes a platen (146) carrying a roller (140) intended to circulate on the cam path (CH) and a fixed support (144) relative to which the platen (146) is configured to slide.
7. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first means (A) include a securing ring (100) mounted movable in rotation relative to the first flange (18) about the longitudinal axis (X) and include bayonet connection means for immobilising the second flange (26) relative to the first flange (18).
8. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second means (B) include at least one pinion meshing with a toothed actuating sector (48.2) carried by the control ring (48), a rotational displacement of the control ring (48) causing a rotation of the securing plate (80).
9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein the second means (B) include a gear train coupled to the securing plate (80) to rotate it, said gear train being driven by said pinion.
10. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein the second means (B) include a pinion with straight teeth meshing with the first toothed sector and a bevel gear.
11. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 10, including means (118) for locking the first door (22) and the second door (28) to each other when they are spaced from the first (18) and second (26) flanges.
12. The assembly according to claim 11, wherein said locking means (118) include a finger (120) movably mounted in the securing plate (80), said finger (120) being able to be retracted in the securing plate (80) when the second door (28) is disposed against the first door (22) and capable of protruding from the securing disc (80) when the securing disc (80) secures the first (22) and the second (28) door, the finger (120) blocking the rotation of the second door (28) relative to the first door (22) with a stop (135).
13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein said finger (120) includes a roller (126) and wherein said locking means (118) include a cam (132) carried by an outer face of the first door (22) ensuring the return to the retracted position of the finger in the securing disc in the phase of separation of the first and second enclosed volumes.
14. The assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first actuating device also forms the second actuation device, and includes for example a crank disposed outside the first enclosed volume.
15. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the first door (22) is articulated relative to the first flange (18) around a hinge (30) of axis (Y) orthogonal to the longitudinal axis (X) and wherein the fourth means (D) include at least one pinion meshing with another toothed sector for actuating the control ring (48), said pinion being coupled to said hinge (30), the rotational displacement of the control ring (48) causing rotation of the first door (22) about the hinge (30).
16. The assembly according to one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the control ring (48) includes a toothed drive sector (48.1) cooperating with a pinion of the second actuation means (108).

Images