EP4034803B1 - Packaging device, assembly comprising such a device and a container, use thereof and a method for filling or withdrawing - Google Patents

Packaging device, assembly comprising such a device and a container, use thereof and a method for filling or withdrawing Download PDF

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Publication number
EP4034803B1
EP4034803B1 EP20768577.7A EP20768577A EP4034803B1 EP 4034803 B1 EP4034803 B1 EP 4034803B1 EP 20768577 A EP20768577 A EP 20768577A EP 4034803 B1 EP4034803 B1 EP 4034803B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
conditioning device
filling
connector
coupling
moved
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP20768577.7A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP4034803C0 (en
EP4034803A1 (en
Inventor
Antoine Frenal
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Air Liquide SA
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Original Assignee
Air Liquide SA
LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
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Publication date
Application filed by Air Liquide SA, LAir Liquide SA pour lEtude et lExploitation des Procedes Georges Claude filed Critical Air Liquide SA
Publication of EP4034803A1 publication Critical patent/EP4034803A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP4034803C0 publication Critical patent/EP4034803C0/en
Publication of EP4034803B1 publication Critical patent/EP4034803B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C13/00—Details of vessels or of the filling or discharging of vessels
    • F17C13/04—Arrangement or mounting of valves
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C5/00—Methods or apparatus for filling containers with liquefied, solidified, or compressed gases under pressures
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/03—Orientation
    • F17C2201/032—Orientation with substantially vertical main axis
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/05—Size
    • F17C2201/056—Small (<1 m3)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/05—Size
    • F17C2201/058—Size portable (<30 l)
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0323—Valves
    • F17C2205/0326—Valves electrically actuated
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0323—Valves
    • F17C2205/0329—Valves manually actuated
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/037—Quick connecting means, e.g. couplings
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0382—Constructional details of valves, regulators
    • F17C2205/0385—Constructional details of valves, regulators in blocks or units
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/01—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
    • F17C2223/0107—Single phase
    • F17C2223/0123—Single phase gaseous, e.g. CNG, GNC
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
    • F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
    • F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
    • F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
    • F17C2223/036—Very high pressure (>80 bar)

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a packaging device, an assembly comprising such a device and a container, its use and a filling or withdrawal method.
  • the invention relates more particularly to a packaging device designed to cooperate with a filling and/or withdrawal connection of a pressurized fluid container tap, the packaging device comprising a body carrying at least one hooking member arranged around a longitudinal axis, the central space located between the at least one hooking member and the longitudinal axis forming a housing intended to accommodate a filling connector of generally cylindrical shape, the at least one hooking member being movable between a spaced position to allow the introduction of a connector into the central space or the exit of a connector from the central space and a close position to ensure attachment of at least one attachment member with the connector filling, the packaging device comprising a locking member movable relative to the body and relative to the hooking member(s) between a first active position blocking the at least one hooking member in the close position and a second inactive position allowing moving the at least one hooking member towards the
  • the invention relates in particular to a mechanism making it possible to quickly connect a packaging device (or clamp) (filling and/or withdrawal) to a connection of a gas bottle in order to allow the filling (or withdrawal) of said bottle.
  • the isolation valve separating the high pressure from the external atmospheric pressure is located at the end of the fitting (in particular when it is flush with the terminal end of the fitting), the architectures mentioned above are not suitable to make a secure waterproof connection.
  • the packaging tools described above are poorly suited for a filling connection of the type described in the document EP2783152A1 (two concentric flaps flush with the terminal end of the fitting).
  • An aim of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the disadvantages of the prior art noted above.
  • the invention also relates to an assembly comprising a pressurized fluid container provided with a filling and/or withdrawal connection and a device for packaging conforming to any of the characteristics above or below, the connector comprising a body of generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis and the exterior surface of which comprises hooking members intended to cooperate with the members attachment of the packaging device to allow removable attachment between these two entities, the filling connection comprising an internal circuit housing at least one valve for closing the internal circuit, said internal circuit opening out at an end face of said connection connection filling.
  • the invention also relates to a use of a packaging device according to any of the characteristics above or below or of a aforementioned assembly for filling and/or withdrawing a container of fluid under pressure, in particular a pressurized gas cylinder.
  • the invention also relates to a method of filling or withdrawing a container with fluid under pressure, the container comprising a tap provided with a filling connection having a body of generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis and of which the exterior surface comprises hooking members intended to cooperate with the hooking members of the packaging device to allow removable hooking between the filling device and said connector, the filling connector comprising an internal circuit housing at least one release valve closing the internal circuit, said internal circuit opening out at an end face of said filling connection, the method comprising a mechanical connection, on the connection, of a conditioning device according to any one of the characteristics above or below below, the mechanical connection comprising a contact step of the blocking member on the end face of said filling connection in which the seal of the blocking member ensures a seal between the pipe of the conditioning device and the internal circuit of the connection filling, the method further comprising a step of moving the blocking member towards its rest position by relative approximation between the packaging device and the filling connector and a step of moving the at least one hooking member from its
  • the illustrated packaging device is designed to cooperate with a connection 1 for filling (and/or withdrawing) a container valve 18 of pressurized fluid.
  • This packaging device comprising a body 5 carrying at least one hooking member 2 arranged around a longitudinal axis A.
  • the packaging device may include several hooking members made up of movable claws.
  • the surface of the claws 2 facing the central space intended to accommodate a filling connection 1 can be provided with relief(s) 12 and/or recesses of determined dimensions. These relief(s) 12 and/or hollows are spaced relatively from each other in a determined manner to fit into one or more grooves 13 and/or conjugate reliefs formed on the exterior face of a filling connection 1.
  • the central space located between the hooking claws 2 and the longitudinal axis A forms a housing intended to accommodate a filling connector 1 of generally cylindrical shape.
  • the hooking claws 2 are movable between a spaced position ([ Fig. 2 ]) to allow the introduction of a connector 1 into the central space or the exit of a connector 1 from the central space and a close position ([ Fig. 3 ] Or [ Fig. 4 ]) to ensure hooking of the hooking claws 2 with the filling connection 1.
  • the packaging device further comprises a locking member 3 movable relative to the body 5 and relative to the hooking claws 2 between a first active position blocking the at least one hooking member 2 in the close position ([ Fig. 4 ] for example) and a second inactive position allowing the movement of the hooking claws 2 towards the separated position ([ Fig. 1 ] Or [ Fig. 2 ] For example).
  • the locking member 3 can be movable in translation (in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A) between the first active position and the second inactive position. Furthermore, preferably, the locking member 3 is biased toward its active position by a return member 15 such as a spring.
  • a stop 32 can prevent the passage of the locking member 3 from the inactive position to the active position (see [ Fig. 1 ] Or [ Fig. 2 ]).
  • the hooking claws 2 are in a close position, the passage of the locking member 3 from the inactive position to the active position is no longer hindered by the stop 32 (see [ Fig. 3 ] Or [ Fig. 4 ]).
  • this stop can be formed by or on one or more claws 2.
  • the locking member comprises or is made up of a sleeve 3 of generally tubular shape arranged around the hooking claws 2.
  • the conditioning device further comprises a valve pusher 11 movable in a gas transfer pipe 7 (for filling from downstream to upstream and possibly for withdrawal from upstream to downstream) along the axis longitudinal.
  • the terms upstream and downstream refer to the direction of flow of the fluid in the event of withdrawal of fluid from the connection 1 in the longitudinal direction A.
  • the valve pusher comprises a rigid axis movable in translation along the longitudinal axis A to actuate or not the opening of at least one valve 19 of a filling connection 1.
  • the device 16, 17 for actuating the valve pusher 11 may comprise a switch 17 consisting of a push button or a pivoting lever and a mechanism 16 for transmitting force between the switch 17 and the valve pusher 11.
  • a pivoting lever 17 can control the position of the valve pusher 11 via a cam 16.
  • the packaging device further comprises a member 4 for blocking the claws 2.
  • the blocking member 4 is for example mounted on the body 5 around the terminal (upstream) end of the transfer pipe 7.
  • the blocking member 4 is movable in translation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A between a first upstream position preventing the movement of the hooking claws 2 from the spaced position towards the close position (see [ Fig. 1 ] Or [ Fig. 2 ] for example by ensuring their spacing) and a second downstream position authorizing the movement of the hooking claws 2 from the spaced position to the close position (see [ Fig. 3 ] Or [ Fig. 4 ] for example where the spacing is not maintained).
  • the blocking member 4 can therefore form, depending on its position, a mechanical stop or not ensuring a spacing or not of the hooking members 2 to prevent or not the mechanical connection of the conditioning device to a connection 1.
  • the blocking member 4 is biased towards its working position by default by a return member 6, for example a spring.
  • This blocking member 4 comprises an upstream face 14 intended to come into contact with a terminal end of a filling connection 1 when connecting these two entities.
  • the blocking member 4 can be moved from its working position (upstream see [ Fig. 2 ]) towards its rest position (further downstream (see [ Fig. 3 ]) during a pushing force of the filling connection 1 on its upstream face. That is to say, when the packaging device is pressed on the terminal end of a connector 1, the filling connector 1 enters the central space of the packaging device and pushes this blocking member 4 towards downstream.
  • the upstream face of the blocking member 4 comprises a seal 24 arranged around the longitudinal axis A to form a seal between the gas transfer pipe 7 and an internal circuit 20 of a filling connection 1.
  • this blocking member 4 ensures a dual function: a role in the locking mechanism of the quick connection between the packaging device and the filling connection 1 and a sealing role in this connection.
  • the locking member 4 makes it possible in particular to ensure tightness of the connection from the start of actuation of the quick connection and in particular during its retreat downstream to release the claws 2 hooking.
  • the locking member 4 can be considered as a part of the locking mechanism of the quick connection with the connection 1.
  • the blocking member 4 therefore participates both in the condition of connection of a conditioning device with the connection 1 and in their sealing.
  • This blocking member 4 only disappears and allows mechanical connection when a satisfactory seal is achieved.
  • the seal 24 for sealing the upstream face of the blocking member 4 is for example an O-ring compression seal which can be located in a housing such as a circular groove in the upstream end of the blocking member 4 .
  • the blocking member 4 in its first upstream position, forms a stop cooperating with a portion 22 of the hooking claws 2 preventing them from coming together.
  • the blocking member 4 in its second downstream position the blocking member 4 recedes transversely to allow the hooking claws 2 to come together.
  • the locking of the attachment of the packaging device to the filling connection 1 can be carried out automatically.
  • an operator or a machine pushes the packaging device onto the filling connection 1.
  • the blocking member 4 on the end face of said filling connection 1 in which the seal 24 of the blocking member 4 ensures a seal between the pipe 7 of the conditioning device and the internal circuit 20 of the filling connection 1.
  • the blocking member 4 is pushed back towards its rest position by relative approximation between the conditioning device and the filling connection 1. This frees the movement of the locking claws 2 which can be forced to move from the spaced position to the closer position by the force of the locking member 3 pushed by its spring 5.
  • the conditioning device comprises a member 8 for pushing the blocking member 4 making it possible in particular to increase the support force of the blocking member 4 on the filling connection 1 (and therefore the maintenance of the seal 24.
  • the blocking member 4 can therefore provide an additional function of maintaining the seal under increased pressure.
  • This thrust member 8 is a part having the general shape for example of a disc or a cup or a cap. This thrust member 8 is mounted movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A between a first downstream position and a second upstream position. These two positions generate forces of different intensity on the blocking member 4 in the upstream direction.
  • the conditioning device further comprises a device 9, 10 for actuating the thrust member 8 configured to control the movement of the thrust member 8 between its first and second positions.
  • this actuation device 9, 10 is of the mechanical and/or pneumatic and/or magnetic and/or hydraulic type and includes a switch 10 operable manually and/or automatically.
  • this device 9, 10 for actuating the thrust member 8 comprises a switch 10 consisting of a push button or a pivoting lever and a mechanism 9 for transmitting force between the switch 10 and the member 8 of thrust.
  • the movement of the thrust member 8 could be controlled automatically, for example depending on the state of mechanical connection between the conditioning device and the connectors 1 (claws 2 and locking member 3 ).
  • the pushing member 8 comprises a face forming a stop or the fulcrum point of one end of the return member 6 which urges the blocking member 4 towards its working position.
  • the thrust member 8 when the thrust member 8 is moved to its second upstream position the force exerted by the spring 6 on the blocking member 4 in the upstream direction is increased.
  • two springs 6, 66 in series act on the thrust member 8.
  • a first upstream spring 6 is mounted between the locking member 4 and a first cup 88 and a second downstream spring 66 is mounted between the first cup 88 and the thrust member 8.
  • the packaging device is preferably used for filling pressurized gas containers (bottle or frame housing a set of bottles). Of course, this can also be used for withdrawing gas from a filling connection 1 which performs both the filling function and the withdrawal function.
  • the conditioning device can be part of or, where appropriate, constitute a gas withdrawal valve which can be connected removably to a withdrawal and/or filling connection 1).
  • the filling connection 1 may comprise a closing valve 19 which is a double valve with two concentric closing elements (an internal closing element 39 whose opening allows the withdrawal of gas from the internal circuit of the connection 1 and a external closing element 29, the opening of which allows filling by introducing gas into the internal circuit of the connection 1).
  • the conditioning device can be configured to ensure the opening of the two concentric elements by, for example, actuating the external closing element 29 with a view to filling (introduction of fluid into the connection 1).
  • the same packaging device architecture can be configured to ensure opening only from the internal element 39 for fluid withdrawal (fluid outlet from connection 1).
  • the conditioning device can be configured to ensure the opening of a simple closing valve 19 (possibly in series with one or more other valves located in the internal circuit 20 of the connection 1.
  • a mechanism or device can be provided for locking/unlocking the pressurization of the seal 24 (and possibly the locking member 3) as a function of the pressure in the circuit(s) 7, 20. That is to say for example that the member 8 cannot return to its first downstream position if the system detects a pressure above a threshold determined in the circuits (meaning for example that the valve 19 does not is not closed). Likewise, for the locking member 3 which could be blocked in its first active position as long as the pressure in the circuits 7, 20 are above a determined threshold.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
  • Buffer Packaging (AREA)
  • Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne un dispositif de conditionnement, un ensemble comprenant un tel dispositif et un récipient, son utilisation et un procédé de remplissage ou de soutirage. L'invention concerne plus particulièrement un dispositif de conditionnement prévue pour coopérer avec un raccord de remplissage et/ou de soutirage d'un robinet de récipient de fluide sous pression, le dispositif de conditionnement comprenant un corps portant au moins un organe d'accrochage disposé autour d'un axe longitudinal, l'espace central situé entre le au moins un organe d'accrochage et l'axe longitudinal formant un logement destiné à accueillir un raccord de remplissage de forme générale cylindrique, le au moins un organe d'accrochage étant mobile entre une position écartée pour permettre l'introduction d'un raccord dans l'espace central ou la sortie d'un raccord de l'espace central et une position rapprochée pour assurer un accrochage du au moins un organe d'accrochage avec le raccord de remplissage, le dispositif de conditionnement comprenant un organe de verrouillage mobile par rapport au corps et par rapport le ou les organes d'accrochage entre une première position active bloquant le au moins un organe d'accrochage en position rapprochée et une seconde position inactive autorisant le déplacement du au moins un organe d'accrochage vers la position écartée, le dispositif de conditionnement comprenant un pousse-clapet mobile dans une conduite de transfert de gaz selon l'axe longitudinal pour actionner l'ouverture d'au moins un clapet d'un raccord de remplissage, le dispositif de conditionnement comprenant en outre un organe de blocage, l'organe de blocage étant mobile selon une direction parallèle à l'axe longitudinal entre une première position amont empêchant le déplacement du au moins un organe d'accrochage de sa position écartée vers sa position rapprochée et une seconde position aval autorisant le déplacement du au moins un organe d'accrochage de la position écartée vers la position rapprochée, l'organe de blocage étant sollicité par défaut vers sa position de travail par un organe de rappel, l'organe de blocage comprenant une face amont destinée à venir en contact avec une extrémité terminale d'un raccord de remplissage, l'organe de blocage étant déplaçable de sa position de travail vers sa position de repos lors d'un effort de poussée du raccord de remplissage sur sa face amont lorsque un raccord de remplissage pénètre dans l'espace central du dispositif de conditionnement.The invention relates to a packaging device, an assembly comprising such a device and a container, its use and a filling or withdrawal method. The invention relates more particularly to a packaging device designed to cooperate with a filling and/or withdrawal connection of a pressurized fluid container tap, the packaging device comprising a body carrying at least one hooking member arranged around a longitudinal axis, the central space located between the at least one hooking member and the longitudinal axis forming a housing intended to accommodate a filling connector of generally cylindrical shape, the at least one hooking member being movable between a spaced position to allow the introduction of a connector into the central space or the exit of a connector from the central space and a close position to ensure attachment of at least one attachment member with the connector filling, the packaging device comprising a locking member movable relative to the body and relative to the hooking member(s) between a first active position blocking the at least one hooking member in the close position and a second inactive position allowing moving the at least one hooking member towards the separated position, the conditioning device comprising a movable valve pusher in a gas transfer pipe along the longitudinal axis to actuate the opening of at least one valve a filling connection, the packaging device further comprising a blocking member, the blocking member being movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis between a first upstream position preventing the movement of at least one hooking member from its spaced position towards its close position and a second downstream position authorizing the movement of at least one hooking member from the spaced position towards the close position, the blocking member being biased by default towards its position of work by a return member, the blocking member comprising an upstream face intended to come into contact with a terminal end of a filling connection, the blocking member being movable from its working position to its rest position during a pushing force from the filling connector on its upstream face when a filling connector enters the central space of the packaging device.

L'invention concerne notamment un mécanisme permettant de connecter rapidement un dispositif (ou pince) de conditionnement (remplissage et/ou soutirage) sur un raccord d'une bouteille de gaz afin de permettre le remplissage (ou un soutirage) de ladite bouteille.The invention relates in particular to a mechanism making it possible to quickly connect a packaging device (or clamp) (filling and/or withdrawal) to a connection of a gas bottle in order to allow the filling (or withdrawal) of said bottle.

De tels dispositifs sont décrits par exemple dans les documents FR2962520A1 ou EP2737234A1 . WO2016/139405A1 divulgue un dispositif de conditionnement.Such devices are described for example in the documents FR2962520A1 Or EP2737234A1 . WO2016/139405A1 discloses a conditioning device.

Ces dispositifs décrivent des solutions satisfaisantes permettant de réaliser des opérations de remplissage (ou de soutirage) au travers d'un raccord comprenant un clapet d'isolation logé dans le raccord (séparant la haute pression de l'atmosphère extérieure) et un clapet pare-poussière qui affleure à l'extrémité du raccord.These devices describe satisfactory solutions allowing filling (or withdrawal) operations to be carried out through a connection comprising an isolation valve housed in the connection (separating the high pressure from the external atmosphere) and a protective valve. dust that is flush with the end of the fitting.

Dans le cas où le clapet d'isolation séparant la haute pression la pression atmosphérique extérieure est situé à l'extrémité du raccord (notamment lorsqu'il affleure au niveau de l'extrémité terminale du raccord), les architectures mentionnées précédemment ne sont pas adaptées pour réaliser une connexion étanche sécurisée. Par exemple, pour un raccord de remplissage du type de celui décrit dans le document EP2783152A1 (deux clapets concentriques affleurant l'extrémité terminale du raccord), les outils de conditionnement décrit ci-dessus sont mal adaptés.In the case where the isolation valve separating the high pressure from the external atmospheric pressure is located at the end of the fitting (in particular when it is flush with the terminal end of the fitting), the architectures mentioned above are not suitable to make a secure waterproof connection. For example, for a filling connection of the type described in the document EP2783152A1 (two concentric flaps flush with the terminal end of the fitting), the packaging tools described above are poorly suited.

Un but de la présente invention est de pallier tout ou partie des inconvénients de l'art antérieur relevés ci-dessus.An aim of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the disadvantages of the prior art noted above.

A cette fin, le dispositif de conditionnement selon l'invention, par ailleurs conforme à la définition générique qu'en donne le préambule ci-dessus, est essentiellement caractérisé en ce que la face amont de l'organe de blocage comprend un joint d'étanchéité disposé autour de l'axe longitudinal pour former une étanchéité entre la conduite de transfert de gaz et un circuit interne d'un raccord de remplissage. Par ailleurs, des modes de réalisation de l'invention peuvent comporter l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes :

  • le joint d'étanchéité de la face amont de l'organe de blocage est un joint de compression torique,
  • le dispositif comprend un organe de poussée de l'organe de blocage, l'organe de poussée étant mobile selon une direction parallèle à l'axe longitudinal entre une première position aval et une seconde position amont, le dispositif de conditionnement comprenant en outre un dispositif d'actionnement de l'organe de poussée configuré pour commander le déplacement de l'organe de poussée entre ses première et seconde positions,
  • l'organe de poussée comprend une face formant une butée pour l'organe de rappel sollicitant l'organe de blocage vers sa position de travail, vers l'amont,
  • le dispositif d'actionnement de l'organe de poussée est du type mécanique et/ou pneumatique et/ou magnétique et/ou hydraulique et comprend un commutateur actionnable manuellement et/ou automatiquement,
  • le dispositif d'actionnement de l'organe de poussée comprend un commutateur constitué d'un bouton poussoir ou d'un levier pivotant et un mécanisme de transmission d'effort entre le commutateur et l'organe de poussée,
  • l'organe de verrouillage est sollicité vers sa position active par un organe de rappel tel qu'un ressort,
  • l'organe de verrouillage est mobile en translation selon une direction parallèle à l'axe longitudinal, lorsque le au moins un organe d'accrochage est en position écartée, une butée empêchant le passage de l'organe de verrouillage de la position inactive vers la position active, lorsque le au moins un organe d'accrochage est en position rapprochée, le passage de l'organe de verrouillage de la position inactive vers la position active n'est pas entravé par la butée,
  • le dispositif de conditionnement comprend un dispositif d'actionnement du pousse-clapet du type mécanique et/ou pneumatique et/ou magnétique et/ou hydraulique, ledit dispositif d'actionnement comprenant un actionneur actionnable manuellement et/ou automatiquement,
  • le dispositif d'actionnement du pousse-clapet comprend un commutateur constitué d'un bouton poussoir ou un levier pivotant et un mécanisme de transmission d'effort entre le commutateur et le pousse-clapet,
  • le procédé comprend une étape de verrouillage du au moins un organe d'accrochage en position rapprochée via un organe de verrouillage mobile du dispositif de conditionnement,
  • le dispositif de conditionnement comprend des organes d'accrochage constitués de plusieurs griffes, la face interne des griffes tournées vers l'espace central destiné à accueillir un raccord de remplissage étant munie de reliefs et/ou de creux de dimensions déterminées, les reliefs et/ou creux étant espacés relativement les uns des autres de façon déterminée pour s'emboîter dans des rainures et/ou reliefs conjugués formés sur la face extérieure d'un raccord de remplissage
  • l'organe de verrouillage comprend un manchon de forme générale tubulaire disposé autour du au moins un organe d'accrochage,
  • le verrouillage du au moins un organe d'accrochage en position rapprochée est réalisé automatiquement par le déplacement de l'organe de verrouillage mobile du dispositif de conditionnement sous l'action de l'organe de rappel,
  • le dispositif de conditionnement comprend un dispositif de verrouillage/déverrouillage du dispositif d'actionnement du pousse-clapet empêchant le déplacement du pousse-clapet tant que l'organe de blocage n'est pas serré ou poussé contre la face terminale dudit raccord via l'organe de poussée mobile commandé par un dispositif d'actionnement,
  • le dispositif de conditionnement comprend un dispositif d'anti-déverrouillage empêchant le déplacement de l'organe de poussée de sa position amont vers sa position aval tant que la pression dans le circuit et/ou ou dans la conduitede transfert est supérieure à une pression déterminée,
  • le dispositif de conditionnement comprend un dispositif d'anti-déverrouillage empêchant le déplacement de l'organe de verrouillage de sa position active vers sa position inactive tant que la pression dans le circuit et/ou ou dans la conduite de transfert est supérieure à une pression déterminée,
  • le raccord comprend un clapet de fermeture du circuit interne qui, en position de fermeture du circuit interne affleure au niveau de l'extrémité terminale du raccord, en position de fermeture du circuit interne le clapet de fermeture séparant la haute pression de l'atmosphère extérieure,
  • le clapet de fermeture est un clapet double à deux éléments concentriques de fermeture : un élément de fermeture interne dont l'ouverture permet le soutirage de gaz du circuit interne du raccord et un élément de fermeture externe dont l'ouverture permet le remplissage par introduction de gaz dans le circuit interne du raccord.
To this end, the packaging device according to the invention, moreover conforming to the generic definition given in the preamble above, is essentially characterized in that the upstream face of the blocking member comprises a seal sealing arranged around the longitudinal axis to form a seal between the gas transfer pipe and an internal circuit of a filling connection. Furthermore, embodiments of the invention may include one or more of the following characteristics:
  • the seal on the upstream face of the blocking member is an O-ring compression seal,
  • the device comprises a pushing member of the blocking member, the pushing member being movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis between a first downstream position and a second upstream position, the conditioning device further comprising a device actuating the thrust member configured to control the movement of the thrust member between its first and second positions,
  • the pushing member comprises a face forming a stop for the return member urging the blocking member towards its working position, upstream,
  • the device for actuating the thrust member is of the mechanical and/or pneumatic and/or magnetic and/or hydraulic type and comprises a switch which can be operated manually and/or automatically,
  • the device for actuating the thrust member comprises a switch consisting of a push button or a pivoting lever and a force transmission mechanism between the switch and the thrust member,
  • the locking member is biased towards its active position by a return member such as a spring,
  • the locking member is movable in translation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, when the at least one hooking member is in the separated position, a stop preventing the passage of the locking member from the inactive position towards the active position, when the at least one hooking member is in the close position, the passage of the locking member from the inactive position to the active position is not hindered by the stop,
  • the conditioning device comprises a device for actuating the valve pusher of the mechanical and/or pneumatic and/or magnetic and/or hydraulic type, said actuation device comprising an actuator operable manually and/or automatically,
  • the valve pusher actuation device comprises a switch consisting of a push button or a pivoting lever and a force transmission mechanism between the switch and the valve pusher,
  • the method comprises a step of locking the at least one hooking member in a close position via a movable locking member of the packaging device,
  • the packaging device comprises hooking members made up of several claws, the internal face of the claws facing the central space intended to accommodate a filling connector being provided with reliefs and/or recesses of determined dimensions, the reliefs and/or or hollows being spaced relatively from each other in a determined manner to fit into grooves and/or combined reliefs formed on the exterior face of a filling connector
  • the locking member comprises a sleeve of generally tubular shape arranged around the at least one hooking member,
  • the locking of at least one hooking member in a close position is carried out automatically by the movement of the movable locking member of the packaging device under the action of the return member,
  • the conditioning device comprises a locking/unlocking device of the valve pusher actuation device preventing movement of the valve pusher as long as the blocking member is not tightened or pushed against the end face of said connection via the movable thrust member controlled by an actuating device,
  • the conditioning device comprises an anti-unlocking device preventing the movement of the thrust member from its upstream position to its downstream position as long as the pressure in the circuit and/or in the transfer pipe is greater than a determined pressure ,
  • the conditioning device comprises an anti-unlocking device preventing the movement of the locking member from its active position to its inactive position as long as the pressure in the circuit and/or in the transfer pipe is greater than a pressure determined,
  • the fitting comprises a valve for closing the internal circuit which, in the closed position of the internal circuit, is flush with the terminal end of the connection, in the closing position of the internal circuit the closing valve separates the high pressure from the external atmosphere ,
  • the closing valve is a double valve with two concentric closing elements: an internal closing element whose opening allows the withdrawal of gas from the internal circuit of the connection and an external closing element whose opening allows the filling by introduction of gas in the internal circuit of the connection.

L'invention concerne également un ensemble comprenant un récipient de fluide sous pression muni d'un raccord de remplissage et/ou de soutirage et un dispositif de conditionnement conforme à l'une quelconque des caractéristiques ci-dessus ou ci-dessous, le raccord comprenant un corps de forme générale cylindrique s'étendant selon un axe longitudinal et dont la surface extérieure comprend des organes d'accrochage destinés à coopérer avec les organes d'accrochage du dispositif de conditionnement pour permettre un accrochage amovible entre ces deux entités, le raccord de remplissage comprenant un circuit interne abritant au moins un clapet de fermeture du circuit interne, ledit circuit interne débouchant au niveau d'une face terminale dudit raccord de remplissage.The invention also relates to an assembly comprising a pressurized fluid container provided with a filling and/or withdrawal connection and a device for packaging conforming to any of the characteristics above or below, the connector comprising a body of generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis and the exterior surface of which comprises hooking members intended to cooperate with the members attachment of the packaging device to allow removable attachment between these two entities, the filling connection comprising an internal circuit housing at least one valve for closing the internal circuit, said internal circuit opening out at an end face of said connection connection filling.

L'invention concerne également une utilisation d'un dispositif de conditionnement selon l'une quelconque des caractéristiques ci-dessus ou ci-dessous ou d'un ensemble précité pour le remplissage et/ou le soutirage d'un récipient de fluide sous pression, notamment une bouteille de gaz sous pression.The invention also relates to a use of a packaging device according to any of the characteristics above or below or of a aforementioned assembly for filling and/or withdrawing a container of fluid under pressure, in particular a pressurized gas cylinder.

L'invention concerne également un procédé de remplissage ou de soutirage d'un récipient avec du fluide sous pression, le récipient comprenant un robinet muni d'un raccord de remplissage ayant un corps de forme générale cylindrique s'étendant selon un axe longitudinal et dont la surface extérieure comprend des organes d'accrochage destinés à coopérer avec les organes d'accrochage du dispositif de conditionnement pour permettre un accrochage amovible entre le dispositif de remplissage et ledit raccord, le raccord de remplissage comprenant un circuit interne abritant au moins un clapet de fermeture du circuit interne, ledit circuit interne débouchant au niveau d'une face terminale dudit raccord de remplissage, le procédé comportant une connexion mécanique, sur le raccord, d'un dispositif de conditionnement selon l'une quelconque des caractéristiques ci-dessus ou ci-dessous, la connexion mécanique comprenant une étape contact de l'organe de blocage sur face terminale dudit raccord de remplissage dans laquelle le joint d'étanchéité de l'organe de blocage assure une étanchéité entre la conduite du dispositif de conditionnement et le circuit interne du raccord de remplissage, le procédé comprenant en outre une étape de déplacement de l'organe de blocage vers sa position de repos par rapprochement relatif entre le dispositif de conditionnement et le raccord de remplissage et une étape de déplacement du au moins un organe de d'accrochage de sa position écartée vers sa position rapprochée avec accrochage sur le corps du raccord de remplissage.The invention also relates to a method of filling or withdrawing a container with fluid under pressure, the container comprising a tap provided with a filling connection having a body of generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis and of which the exterior surface comprises hooking members intended to cooperate with the hooking members of the packaging device to allow removable hooking between the filling device and said connector, the filling connector comprising an internal circuit housing at least one release valve closing the internal circuit, said internal circuit opening out at an end face of said filling connection, the method comprising a mechanical connection, on the connection, of a conditioning device according to any one of the characteristics above or below below, the mechanical connection comprising a contact step of the blocking member on the end face of said filling connection in which the seal of the blocking member ensures a seal between the pipe of the conditioning device and the internal circuit of the connection filling, the method further comprising a step of moving the blocking member towards its rest position by relative approximation between the packaging device and the filling connector and a step of moving the at least one hooking member from its separated position to its closer position with attachment to the body of the filling fitting.

Selon d'autres particularités possibles

  • le procédé comprend une étape de serrage par poussée de l'organe de blocage contre la face terminale dudit raccord via un effort de poussée assuré par un organe de poussée mobile commandé par le dispositif d'actionnement,
  • le procédé de remplissage comprend une étape de vérification de l'étanchéité entre le dispositif de remplissage et le raccord (1) de remplissage via une mise sous vide de la conduite (7) du dispositif de conditionnement avant l'ouverture du circuit (20) du raccord de remplissage,
  • le procédé comprend, après l'étape de remplissage, une étape de fermeture du circuit (20) du raccord de remplissage et une étape de purge desdits circuits (7, 20),
  • l'étape de serrage de l'organe de blocage contre la face terminale du raccord de remplissage est réalisée automatiquement ou manuellement, notamment par l'actionnement d'un levier à came(s) agissant sur un ressort de sollicitant l'organe de blocage,
According to other possible particularities
  • the method comprises a step of tightening by pushing the locking member against the end face of said connection via a pushing force provided by a mobile pushing member controlled by the actuation device,
  • the filling process comprises a step of checking the tightness between the filling device and the filling connection (1) via evacuation of the pipe (7) of the packaging device before opening the circuit (20) of the filling connection,
  • the method comprises, after the filling step, a step of closing the circuit (20) of the filling connection and a step of purging said circuits (7, 20),
  • the step of tightening the locking member against the end face of the filling connection is carried out automatically or manually, in particular by actuation of a cam lever(s) acting on a spring biasing the locking member ,

L'invention peut concerner également tout dispositif ou procédé alternatif comprenant toute combinaison des caractéristiques ci-dessus ou ci-dessous dans le cadre des revendications. D'autres particularités et avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description ci-après, faite en référence aux figures dans lesquelles :

  • [Fig. 1] représente une vue en coupe, schématique et partielle illustrant la structure et le fonctionnement d'un premier exemple de réalisation d'un ensemble comprenant un dispositif de conditionnement et d'un récipient de fluide,
  • [Fig. 2] représente une vue en coupe, schématique et partielle illustrant la structure et le fonctionnement selon deuxième exemple de réalisation d'un ensemble comprenant un dispositif de conditionnement et un récipient de fluide dans une configuration détachée,
  • [Fig. 3] représente une similaire à celle de la figure 2 dans une configuration raccordée,
  • [Fig. 4] représente une vue en coupe, schématique et partielle illustrant la structure et le fonctionnement selon troisième exemple de réalisation d'un ensemble comprenant un dispositif de conditionnement et d'un récipient de fluide dans une configuration raccordée.
The invention may also relate to any alternative device or method comprising any combination of the characteristics above or below within the scope of the claims. Other features and advantages will appear on reading the description below, made with reference to the figures in which:
  • [ Fig. 1 ] represents a sectional, schematic and partial view illustrating the structure and operation of a first exemplary embodiment of an assembly comprising a conditioning device and a fluid container,
  • [ Fig. 2 ] represents a schematic and partial sectional view illustrating the structure and operation according to the second embodiment of an assembly comprising a conditioning device and a fluid container in a detached configuration,
  • [ Fig. 3 ] represents a similar one to that of the figure 2 in a connected configuration,
  • [ Fig. 4 ] represents a schematic and partial sectional view illustrating the structure and operation according to third embodiment of an assembly comprising a conditioning device and a fluid container in a connected configuration.

Le dispositif de conditionnement illustrée est prévu pour coopérer avec un raccord 1 de remplissage (et/ou de soutirage) d'un robinet de récipient 18 de fluide sous pression.The illustrated packaging device is designed to cooperate with a connection 1 for filling (and/or withdrawing) a container valve 18 of pressurized fluid.

Ce dispositif de conditionnement comprenant un corps 5 portant au moins un organe 2 d'accrochage disposé autour d'un axe A longitudinal. Comme illustré et décrit plus en détail ci-après, le dispositif de conditionnement peut comporter plusieurs organes d'accrochage constitués de griffes mobiles.This packaging device comprising a body 5 carrying at least one hooking member 2 arranged around a longitudinal axis A. As illustrated and described in more detail below, the packaging device may include several hooking members made up of movable claws.

La surface des griffes 2 tournée vers l'espace central destiné à accueillir un raccord 1 de remplissage peut être munie de relief(s) 12 et/ou de creux de dimensions déterminées. Ces relief(s) 12 et/ou creux sont espacés relativement les uns des autres de façon déterminée pour s'emboîter dans une ou des rainures 13 et/ou reliefs conjugués formés sur la face extérieure d'un raccord 1 de remplissage.The surface of the claws 2 facing the central space intended to accommodate a filling connection 1 can be provided with relief(s) 12 and/or recesses of determined dimensions. These relief(s) 12 and/or hollows are spaced relatively from each other in a determined manner to fit into one or more grooves 13 and/or conjugate reliefs formed on the exterior face of a filling connection 1.

Bien entendu tout autre organe d'accrochage approprié peut être envisagé (billes...) .Of course any other suitable attachment member can be considered (balls, etc.).

L'espace central situé entre les griffes 2 d'accrochage et l'axe longitudinal A forme un logement destiné à accueillir un raccord 1 de remplissage de forme générale cylindrique.The central space located between the hooking claws 2 and the longitudinal axis A forms a housing intended to accommodate a filling connector 1 of generally cylindrical shape.

Les griffes 2 d'accrochage sont mobiles entre une position écartée ([Fig. 2]) pour permettre l'introduction d'un raccord 1 dans l'espace central ou la sortie d'un raccord 1 de l'espace central et une position rapprochée ([Fig. 3] ou [Fig. 4]) pour assurer un accrochage des griffes 2 d'accrochage avec le raccord 1 de remplissage.The hooking claws 2 are movable between a spaced position ([ Fig. 2 ]) to allow the introduction of a connector 1 into the central space or the exit of a connector 1 from the central space and a close position ([ Fig. 3 ] Or [ Fig. 4 ]) to ensure hooking of the hooking claws 2 with the filling connection 1.

Le dispositif de conditionnement comprend en outre un organe 3 de verrouillage mobile par rapport au corps 5 et par rapport aux griffes 2 d'accrochage entre une première position active bloquant le au moins un organe 2 d'accrochage en position rapprochée ([Fig. 4] par exemple) et une seconde position inactive autorisant le déplacement des griffes 2 d'accrochage vers la position écartée ([Fig. 1] ou [Fig. 2] par exemple).The packaging device further comprises a locking member 3 movable relative to the body 5 and relative to the hooking claws 2 between a first active position blocking the at least one hooking member 2 in the close position ([ Fig. 4 ] for example) and a second inactive position allowing the movement of the hooking claws 2 towards the separated position ([ Fig. 1 ] Or [ Fig. 2 ] For example).

Comme illustré, l'organe 3 de verrouillage peut être mobile en translation (selon une direction parallèle à l'axe longitudinal A) entre la première position active et la seconde position inactive. De plus, de préférence, l'organe 3 de verrouillage est sollicité vers sa position active par un organe 15 de rappel tel qu'un ressort. De plus, lorsque les griffes 2 d'accrochage sont en position écartée, une butée 32 peut empêcher le passage de l'organe 3 de verrouillage de la position inactive vers la position active (cf. [Fig. 1] ou [Fig. 2]). En revanche, lorsque les griffes 2 d'accrochage sont en position rapprochée, le passage de l'organe 3 de verrouillage de la position inactive vers la position active n'est plus entravé par la butée 32 (cf. [Fig. 3] ou [Fig. 4]). Comme illustré, cette butée peur être formé par ou sur une ou des griffes 2.As illustrated, the locking member 3 can be movable in translation (in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A) between the first active position and the second inactive position. Furthermore, preferably, the locking member 3 is biased toward its active position by a return member 15 such as a spring. In addition, when the hooking claws 2 are in the apart position, a stop 32 can prevent the passage of the locking member 3 from the inactive position to the active position (see [ Fig. 1 ] Or [ Fig. 2 ]). On the other hand, when the hooking claws 2 are in a close position, the passage of the locking member 3 from the inactive position to the active position is no longer hindered by the stop 32 (see [ Fig. 3 ] Or [ Fig. 4 ]). As illustrated, this stop can be formed by or on one or more claws 2.

Par exemple, l'organe de verrouillage comprend ou est constitué d'un manchon 3 de forme générale tubulaire disposé autour des griffes 2 d'accrochage.For example, the locking member comprises or is made up of a sleeve 3 of generally tubular shape arranged around the hooking claws 2.

Le dispositif de conditionnement comprend en outre un pousse-clapet 11 mobile dans une conduite 7 de transfert de gaz (pour le remplissage d'aval vers l'amont et éventuellement pour le soutirage de l'amont vers l'aval) selon l'axe longitudinal. Les termes amont et aval font référence au sens d'écoulement du fluide en cas de soutirage de fluide du raccord 1 selon la direction longitudinale A. Le pousse clapet comprend un axe rigide mobile en translation selon l'axe longitudinal A pour actionner ou non l'ouverture d'au moins un clapet 19 d'un raccord 1 de remplissage.The conditioning device further comprises a valve pusher 11 movable in a gas transfer pipe 7 (for filling from downstream to upstream and possibly for withdrawal from upstream to downstream) along the axis longitudinal. The terms upstream and downstream refer to the direction of flow of the fluid in the event of withdrawal of fluid from the connection 1 in the longitudinal direction A. The valve pusher comprises a rigid axis movable in translation along the longitudinal axis A to actuate or not the opening of at least one valve 19 of a filling connection 1.

Classiquement, le dispositif 16, 17 d'actionnement du pousse-clapet 11 peut comprendre un commutateur 17 constitué d'un bouton poussoir ou un levier pivotant et un mécanisme 16 de transmission d'effort entre le commutateur 17 et le pousse-clapet 11. Par exemple, un levier 17 pivotant peut commander la position du pousse-clapet 11 via une came 16.Conventionally, the device 16, 17 for actuating the valve pusher 11 may comprise a switch 17 consisting of a push button or a pivoting lever and a mechanism 16 for transmitting force between the switch 17 and the valve pusher 11. For example, a pivoting lever 17 can control the position of the valve pusher 11 via a cam 16.

Le dispositif de conditionnement comprend en outre un organe 4 de blocage des griffes 2.The packaging device further comprises a member 4 for blocking the claws 2.

L'organe 4 de blocage est par exemple monté sur le corps 5 autour de l'extrémité terminale (amont) de la conduite 7 de transfert. L'organe 4 de blocage est mobile en translation selon une direction parallèle à l'axe longitudinal A entre une première position amont empêchant le déplacement des griffes 2 d'accrochage de la position écartée vers la position rapprochée (cf. [Fig. 1] ou [Fig. 2] par exemple en assurant leur écartement) et une seconde position aval autorisant le déplacement des griffes 2 d'accrochage de la position écartée vers la position rapprochée (cf. [Fig. 3] ou [Fig. 4] par exemple où l'écartement n'est pas maintenu).The blocking member 4 is for example mounted on the body 5 around the terminal (upstream) end of the transfer pipe 7. The blocking member 4 is movable in translation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A between a first upstream position preventing the movement of the hooking claws 2 from the spaced position towards the close position (see [ Fig. 1 ] Or [ Fig. 2 ] for example by ensuring their spacing) and a second downstream position authorizing the movement of the hooking claws 2 from the spaced position to the close position (see [ Fig. 3 ] Or [ Fig. 4 ] for example where the spacing is not maintained).

L'organe 4 de blocage peut donc former, selon sa position, une butée mécanique ou non assurant un écartement ou non des organes 2 d'accrochage pour empêcher ou non la connexion mécanique du dispositif de conditionnement sur un raccord 1.The blocking member 4 can therefore form, depending on its position, a mechanical stop or not ensuring a spacing or not of the hooking members 2 to prevent or not the mechanical connection of the conditioning device to a connection 1.

L'organe 4 de blocage est sollicité par défaut vers sa position de travail par un organe 6 de rappel, par exemple un ressort. Cet organe 4 de blocage comprend une face 14 amont destinée à venir en contact avec une extrémité terminale d'un raccord 1 de remplissage lors du raccordement de ces deux entités.The blocking member 4 is biased towards its working position by default by a return member 6, for example a spring. This blocking member 4 comprises an upstream face 14 intended to come into contact with a terminal end of a filling connection 1 when connecting these two entities.

L'organe 4 de blocage est déplaçable de sa position de travail (en amont cf. [Fig. 2]) vers sa position de repos (plus en aval (cf. [Fig. 3]) lors d'un effort de poussée du raccord 1 de remplissage sur sa face amont. C'est-à-dire que lorsque le dispositif de conditionnement est appuyée sur l'extrémité terminale d'un raccord 1, le raccord 1 de remplissage pénètre dans l'espace central du dispositif de conditionnement et vient repousser cet organe 4 de blocage vers l'aval.The blocking member 4 can be moved from its working position (upstream see [ Fig. 2 ]) towards its rest position (further downstream (see [ Fig. 3 ]) during a pushing force of the filling connection 1 on its upstream face. That is to say, when the packaging device is pressed on the terminal end of a connector 1, the filling connector 1 enters the central space of the packaging device and pushes this blocking member 4 towards downstream.

Selon une particularité avantageuse, la face amont de l'organe 4 de blocage comprend un joint 24 d'étanchéité disposé autour de l'axe longitudinal A pour former une étanchéité entre la conduite 7 de transfert de gaz et un circuit 20 interne d'un raccord 1 de remplissage.According to an advantageous feature, the upstream face of the blocking member 4 comprises a seal 24 arranged around the longitudinal axis A to form a seal between the gas transfer pipe 7 and an internal circuit 20 of a filling connection 1.

Ainsi, cet organe 4 de blocage assure une double fonction : un rôle dans le mécanisme de verrouillage de la connexion rapide entre le dispositif de conditionnement et le raccord 1 de remplissage et un rôle d'étanchéité dans cette connexion. Comme expliqué plus en détail ci-après, l'organe de blocage 4 permet notamment d'assurer une étanchéité de la liaison dès le début de l'actionnement de la connexion rapide et notamment pendant son recul vers l'aval pour libérer les griffes 2 d'accrochage. A ce titre, l'organe 4 de blocage peut être considéré comme une pièce du mécanisme de verrouillage de la connexion rapide avec le raccord 1. L'organe 4 de blocage participe donc à la fois à la condition de raccordement d'un dispositif de conditionnement avec le raccord 1 et à leur étanchéité.Thus, this blocking member 4 ensures a dual function: a role in the locking mechanism of the quick connection between the packaging device and the filling connection 1 and a sealing role in this connection. As explained in more detail below, the locking member 4 makes it possible in particular to ensure tightness of the connection from the start of actuation of the quick connection and in particular during its retreat downstream to release the claws 2 hooking. As such, the locking member 4 can be considered as a part of the locking mechanism of the quick connection with the connection 1. The blocking member 4 therefore participates both in the condition of connection of a conditioning device with the connection 1 and in their sealing.

Cet organe 4 de blocage ne s'efface et permet la connexion mécanique que lorsqu'une étanchéité satisfaisante est réalisée.This blocking member 4 only disappears and allows mechanical connection when a satisfactory seal is achieved.

Le joint 24 d'étanchéité de la face amont de l'organe 4 de blocage est par exemple un joint de compression torique qui peut être situé dans un logement tel qu'une rainure circulaire de l'extrémité amont de l'organe 4 de blocage.The seal 24 for sealing the upstream face of the blocking member 4 is for example an O-ring compression seal which can be located in a housing such as a circular groove in the upstream end of the blocking member 4 .

Par exemple, comme illustré, dans sa première position amont, l'organe 4 de blocage forme une butée coopérant avec une portion 22 des griffes 2 d'accrochage empêchant leur rapprochement. En revanche, dans sa seconde position aval l'organe 4 de blocage s'efface transversalement pour autoriser le rapprochement des griffes 2 d'accrochage.For example, as illustrated, in its first upstream position, the blocking member 4 forms a stop cooperating with a portion 22 of the hooking claws 2 preventing them from coming together. On the other hand, in its second downstream position the blocking member 4 recedes transversely to allow the hooking claws 2 to come together.

De préférence, le verrouillage de l'accrochage du dispositif de conditionnement sur le raccord 1 de remplissage peut être réalisé automatiquement. Par exemple un opérateur ou une machine vient enfoncer le dispositif de conditionnement sur le raccord 1 de remplissage. Lors de cette connexion il y a un contact l'organe 4 de blocage sur face terminale dudit raccord 1 de remplissage dans laquelle le joint 24 d'étanchéité de l'organe 4 de blocage assure une étanchéité entre la conduite 7 du dispositif de conditionnement et le circuit 20 interne du raccord 1 de remplissage. Lors de cet enfoncement l'organe 4 de blocage est repoussé vers sa position de repos par rapprochement relatif entre le dispositif de conditionnement et le raccord 1 de remplissage. Ceci libère le déplacement des griffes 2 de verrouillage qui peuvent être contraintes à passer de la position écartée vers la position rapprochée par l'effort de l'organe 3 de verrouillage poussé par son ressort 5. Lorsque les griffes 2 de verrouillage sont rapprochées (accrochage sur le corps du raccord 1 de remplissage) elles n'entravent plus le mouvement de l'organe 3 de verrouillage qui peut alors passer de sa position inactive à sa position active de verrouillage sous l'action de l'organe 15 de rappel (cf. [Fig. 3] ou [Fig. 4]).Preferably, the locking of the attachment of the packaging device to the filling connection 1 can be carried out automatically. For example, an operator or a machine pushes the packaging device onto the filling connection 1. During this connection there is contact with the blocking member 4 on the end face of said filling connection 1 in which the seal 24 of the blocking member 4 ensures a seal between the pipe 7 of the conditioning device and the internal circuit 20 of the filling connection 1. During this depression, the blocking member 4 is pushed back towards its rest position by relative approximation between the conditioning device and the filling connection 1. This frees the movement of the locking claws 2 which can be forced to move from the spaced position to the closer position by the force of the locking member 3 pushed by its spring 5. When the locking claws 2 are brought together (hooking on the body of filling connection 1) they no longer hinder the movement of the locking member 3 which can then move from its inactive position to its active locking position under the action of the return member 15 (see [ Fig. 3 ] Or [ Fig. 4 ]).

Comme illustré, de préférence le dispositif de conditionnement comprend un organe 8 de poussée de l'organe 4 de blocage permettant notamment d'augmenter l'effort d'appui de l'organe 4 de blocage sur le raccord 1 de remplissage (et donc la tenue de l'étanchéité du joint 24. L'organe 4 de blocage peut donc assurer une fonction supplémentaire de maintien de l'étanchéité sous une pression accrue.As illustrated, preferably the conditioning device comprises a member 8 for pushing the blocking member 4 making it possible in particular to increase the support force of the blocking member 4 on the filling connection 1 (and therefore the maintenance of the seal 24. The blocking member 4 can therefore provide an additional function of maintaining the seal under increased pressure.

Cet organe 8 de poussée est une pièce ayant la forme générale par exemple d'un disque ou d'une coupelle ou d'un capuchon. Cet organe 8 de poussée est monté mobile selon une direction parallèle à l'axe longitudinal A entre une première position aval et une seconde position amont. Ces deux positions génèrent des efforts d'intensité différentes sur l'organe 4 de blocage en direction de l'amont. Le dispositif de conditionnement comprend en outre un dispositif 9, 10 d'actionnement de l'organe 8 de poussée configuré pour commander le déplacement de l'organe 8 de poussée entre ses première et seconde positions. Par exemple ce dispositif 9, 10 d'actionnement est du type mécanique et/ou pneumatique et/ou magnétique et/ou hydraulique et comprend un commutateur 10 actionnable manuellement et/ou automatiquement. De préférence, ce dispositif 9, 10 d'actionnement de l'organe 8 de poussée comprend un commutateur 10 constitué d'un bouton poussoir ou un levier pivotant et un mécanisme 9 de transmission d'effort entre le commutateur 10 et l'organe 8 de poussée.This thrust member 8 is a part having the general shape for example of a disc or a cup or a cap. This thrust member 8 is mounted movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A between a first downstream position and a second upstream position. These two positions generate forces of different intensity on the blocking member 4 in the upstream direction. The conditioning device further comprises a device 9, 10 for actuating the thrust member 8 configured to control the movement of the thrust member 8 between its first and second positions. For example, this actuation device 9, 10 is of the mechanical and/or pneumatic and/or magnetic and/or hydraulic type and includes a switch 10 operable manually and/or automatically. Preferably, this device 9, 10 for actuating the thrust member 8 comprises a switch 10 consisting of a push button or a pivoting lever and a mechanism 9 for transmitting force between the switch 10 and the member 8 of thrust.

Dans un mode de réalisation possible le déplacement de l'organe 8 de poussée pourrait être piloté de façon automatique, par exemple en fonction de l'état de connexion mécanique entre le dispositif de conditionnement et le raccords 1 (griffes 2 et organe 3 de verrouillage).In a possible embodiment the movement of the thrust member 8 could be controlled automatically, for example depending on the state of mechanical connection between the conditioning device and the connectors 1 (claws 2 and locking member 3 ).

Comme illustré, de préférence l'organe 8 de poussée comprend une face formant une butée ou le point d'appui d'une extrémité de l'organe 6 de rappel qui sollicite l'organe 4 de blocage vers sa position de travail. Ainsi, lorsque l'organe 8 de poussée est déplacé dans sa seconde position amont l'effort exercé par le ressort 6 sur l'organe 4 de blocage en direction de l'amont est augmenté. Dans le mode de réalisation de la [Fig. 4] deux ressorts 6, 66 en série agissent l'organe 8 de poussée. Un premier ressort 6 amont est monté entre l'organe de blocage 4 et une première coupelle 88 et un deuxième ressort aval 66 est monté entre la première coupelle 88 et l'organe 8 de poussée.As illustrated, preferably the pushing member 8 comprises a face forming a stop or the fulcrum point of one end of the return member 6 which urges the blocking member 4 towards its working position. Thus, when the thrust member 8 is moved to its second upstream position the force exerted by the spring 6 on the blocking member 4 in the upstream direction is increased. In the embodiment of the [ Fig. 4 ] two springs 6, 66 in series act on the thrust member 8. A first upstream spring 6 is mounted between the locking member 4 and a first cup 88 and a second downstream spring 66 is mounted between the first cup 88 and the thrust member 8.

Le dispositif de conditionnement est utilisé de préférence pour le remplissage de récipients de gaz sous pression (bouteille ou cadre abritant un ensemble de bouteilles). Bien entendu, celui-ci peut être utilisé également pour le soutirage de gaz à partir d'un raccord 1 de remplissage qui réalise aussi bien la fonction de remplissage que la fonction de soutirage.The packaging device is preferably used for filling pressurized gas containers (bottle or frame housing a set of bottles). Of course, this can also be used for withdrawing gas from a filling connection 1 which performs both the filling function and the withdrawal function.

Ainsi, le dispositif de conditionnement peut faire partie ou constituer le cas échéant un robinet de soutirage de gaz qui peut se raccorder de façon amovible sur un raccord 1 de soutirage et/ou de remplissage). En particulier, le raccord 1 de remplissage peut comprendre un clapet 19 de fermeture qui est un clapet double à deux éléments concentriques de fermeture (un élément de fermeture 39 interne dont l'ouverture permet le soutirage de gaz du circuit interne du raccord 1 et un élément 29 de fermeture externe dont l'ouverture permet le remplissage par introduction de gaz dans le circuit interne du raccord 1).Thus, the conditioning device can be part of or, where appropriate, constitute a gas withdrawal valve which can be connected removably to a withdrawal and/or filling connection 1). In particular, the filling connection 1 may comprise a closing valve 19 which is a double valve with two concentric closing elements (an internal closing element 39 whose opening allows the withdrawal of gas from the internal circuit of the connection 1 and a external closing element 29, the opening of which allows filling by introducing gas into the internal circuit of the connection 1).

Dans ce cas, le dispositif de conditionnement peut être configurée pour assurer l'ouverture des deux éléments concentriques en actionnant par exemple l'élément de fermeture 29 externe en vue d'un remplissage (introduction de fluide dans le raccord 1). Bien entendu, la même architecture de dispositif de conditionnement peut être configurée pour assurer l'ouverture uniquement de l'élément 39 interne en vue d'un soutirage de fluide (sortie de fluide du raccord 1).In this case, the conditioning device can be configured to ensure the opening of the two concentric elements by, for example, actuating the external closing element 29 with a view to filling (introduction of fluid into the connection 1). Of course, the same packaging device architecture can be configured to ensure opening only from the internal element 39 for fluid withdrawal (fluid outlet from connection 1).

De même, le dispositif de conditionnement peut être configuré pour assurer l'ouverture d'un clapet 19 de fermeture simple (éventuellement en série avec un ou des autres clapets situés dans le circuit 20 interne du raccord 1.Likewise, the conditioning device can be configured to ensure the opening of a simple closing valve 19 (possibly in series with one or more other valves located in the internal circuit 20 of the connection 1.

Ainsi, le dispositif de conditionnement permet une connexion mécanique avec une étanchéité fiable qui peut le cas échéant être renforcée dans le cas de la présence d'un organe 8 de poussée de l'organe 4 de blocage.Thus, the conditioning device allows a mechanical connection with reliable sealing which can, if necessary, be reinforced in the case of the presence of a member 8 for pushing the blocking member 4.

La connexion mécanique et fluidique peut être réalisée selon la séquence suivante :

  • le dispositif de conditionnement est enfilé sur le raccord 1 de remplissage ce qui assure un contact étanche entre l'organe 4 de blocage et l'entrée du circuit 20 interne du raccord 1,
  • le recul de l'organe 4 de blocage vers l'aval libère les organes 2 d'accrochage qui peuvent s'accrocher contre le corps du raccord 1, ceci libère automatiquement le mouvement de l'organe 3 qui sécurise et verrouille la liaison mécanique,
  • le joint 24 d'étanchéité de l'organe 4 de blocage est mis sous une pression augmentée via l'actionnement du commutateur 10 du dispositif d'actionnement de la position de l'organe 8 de poussée (par exemple via un levier et came(s) et le ressort 6),
  • si besoin, l'étanchéité de la liaison peut être contrôlée par mise sous vide de l'ensemble,
  • la ou les vannes 19 d'isolation du raccord 1 peuvent ensuite être ouvertes via le pousse-clapet 11 commandé par un commutateur 10 (un deuxième levier par exemple agissant via une came sur le pousse-clapet logé dans la conduite 7 de transfert),
  • le transfert de gaz peut ensuite être réalisé entre les deux entités raccordées.
The mechanical and fluidic connection can be carried out according to the following sequence:
  • the conditioning device is slipped onto the filling connector 1, which ensures tight contact between the blocking member 4 and the inlet of the internal circuit 20 of the connector 1,
  • the withdrawal of the blocking member 4 towards the downstream releases the hooking members 2 which can hook against the body of the connector 1, this automatically releases the movement of the member 3 which secures and locks the mechanical connection,
  • the seal 24 of the blocking member 4 is placed under increased pressure via the actuation of the switch 10 of the device for actuating the position of the thrust member 8 (for example via a lever and cam ( s) and spring 6),
  • if necessary, the tightness of the connection can be checked by placing the assembly under vacuum,
  • the valve(s) 19 for isolating connection 1 can then be opened via the valve pusher 11 controlled by a switch 10 (a second lever for example acting via a cam on the valve pusher housed in the transfer pipe 7),
  • the gas transfer can then be carried out between the two connected entities.

Après transfert de gaz, la déconnexion peut être réalisée selon la séquence suivante :

  • la ou les vannes 19 d'isolation du raccord 1 peuvent être fermées via le déplacement du pousse-clapet 11 en sens inverse (vers l'aval) via le commutateur 10,
  • le circuit 20 interne peut être purgé,
  • l'effort d'écrasement du joint 24 d'étanchéité de l'organe 4 de blocage est réduit via l'actionnement du commutateur 10 du dispositif (déplacement de l'organe 8 de poussée en sens inverse),
  • la liaison mécanique entre le dispositif de conditionnement et le raccord 1 peut être déverrouillée par le déplacement de l'organe 3 de verrouillage et écartement des organes 2 d'accrochage.
After gas transfer, disconnection can be carried out according to the following sequence:
  • the isolation valve(s) 19 of connection 1 can be closed via moving the valve pusher 11 in the opposite direction (downstream) via switch 10,
  • the internal circuit 20 can be purged,
  • the crushing force of the seal 24 of the blocking member 4 is reduced via actuation of the switch 10 of the device (movement of the thrust member 8 in the opposite direction),
  • the mechanical connection between the conditioning device and the connection 1 can be unlocked by moving the locking member 3 and spacing the hooking members 2.

Bien entendu l'invention n'est pas limitée aux exemples de réalisation décrits ci-dessus. Ainsi, par exemple, il peut être prévu un mécanisme ou dispositif de verrouillage/déverrouillage du commutateur 17 de commande du pousse-clapet 11 qui interdit son actionnement (et donc empêche l'ouverture des clapets 19) tant que le joint 24 d'étanchéité de la pièce de blocage n'est pas mis sous pression (via l'actionneur 10). Ceci peut être prévu via un système mécanique et/ou hydraulique et/ou pneumatique et/ou magnétique. Par exemple, l'actionnement des deux actionneurs 10 17 peut être couplé et notamment l'actionneur 17 n'est accessible ou déplaçable que si l'autre actionneur 10 est dans la position requise. En variante les deux opérations (mise en pression du joint 24 et ouverture des clapets 19) peuvent être séquentielles et assurées par un même commutateur (levier ou autre).Of course the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above. Thus, for example, a mechanism or device can be provided for locking/unlocking the switch 17 controlling the valve pusher 11 which prevents its actuation (and therefore prevents the opening of the valves 19) as long as the seal 24 of the blocking part is not pressurized (via actuator 10). This can be provided via a mechanical and/or hydraulic and/or pneumatic and/or magnetic system. For example, the actuation of the two actuators 10 17 can be coupled and in particular the actuator 17 is only accessible or movable if the other actuator 10 is in the required position. Alternatively, the two operations (pressurizing the seal 24 and opening the valves 19) can be sequential and ensured by the same switch (lever or other).

De même il peut être prévu un mécanisme ou dispositif de verrouillage/déverrouillage de la mise en pression du joint 24 d'étanchéité (et éventuellement de l'organe 3 de verrouillage) en fonction de la pression dans le ou les circuits 7, 20. C'est-à-dire par exemple que l'organe 8 ne peut pas revenir dans sa première position aval si le système détecte une pression au-dessus d'un seuil déterminé dans les circuit (signifiant par exemple que le clapet 19 n'est pas fermé). De même, pour l'organe 3 de verrouillage qui pourrait être bloqué dans sa première position active tant que la pression dans les circuits 7, 20 sont au-dessus d'un seuil déterminé.Likewise, a mechanism or device can be provided for locking/unlocking the pressurization of the seal 24 (and possibly the locking member 3) as a function of the pressure in the circuit(s) 7, 20. That is to say for example that the member 8 cannot return to its first downstream position if the system detects a pressure above a threshold determined in the circuits (meaning for example that the valve 19 does not is not closed). Likewise, for the locking member 3 which could be blocked in its first active position as long as the pressure in the circuits 7, 20 are above a determined threshold.

Claims (16)

  1. Conditioning device intended for engaging with a filling and/or tapping connector of a pressurized-fluid container cock, the conditioning device comprising a body (5) bearing at least one coupling member (2) arranged about a longitudinal axis (A), the central space situated between the at least one coupling member (2) and the longitudinal axis (A) forming a housing intended to accommodate a filling connector (1) of cylindrical general shape, the at least one coupling member (2) being movable between a moved-away position to allow the introduction of a connector (1) into the central space or the exit of a connector (1) from the central space, and a moved-in position to ensure coupling of the at least one coupling member (2) with the filling connector (1), the conditioning device comprising a locking member (3) which is movable with respect to the body (5) and with respect to the coupling member or members (2) between a first active position blocking the at least one coupling member (2) in the moved-in position, and a second inactive position allowing the movement of the at least one coupling member (2) towards the moved-away position, the conditioning device comprising a valve pusher (11) which is movable in a gas transfer duct (7) along the longitudinal axis (A) in order to actuate the opening of at least one valve (19) of a filling connector (1), the conditioning device additionally comprising a blocking member (4), the blocking member (4) being movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (A) between a first upstream position preventing the movement of the at least one coupling member (2) from its moved-away position towards its moved-in position, and a second downstream position allowing the movement of the at least one coupling member (2) from the moved-away position towards the moved-in position, the blocking member (4) being urged by default towards its first working position by a return member (6, 66), the blocking member (4) comprising an upstream face (14) intended to come into contact with a terminal end of a filling connector (1), the blocking member (4) being movable from its first position towards its second position during a pushing force of the filling connector (1) on its upstream face when said filling connector (1) penetrates into the central space of the conditioning device, characterized in that the upstream face of the blocking member (4) comprises a tightness seal (24) arranged about the longitudinal axis (A) to form sealing between the gas transfer duct (7) and an internal circuit of a filling connector (1).
  2. Conditioning device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the tightness seal (24) of the upstream face of the blocking member (4) is an O-ring compression seal.
  3. Conditioning device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a pushing member (8) for pushing the blocking member (4), the pushing member (8) being movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (A) between a first downstream position and a second upstream position, the conditioning device additionally comprising an actuating device (9, 10) for actuating the pushing member (8) that is configured to control the movement of the pushing member (8) between its first and second positions.
  4. Conditioning device according to Claim 3, characterized in that the pushing member (8) comprises a face forming a stop for the return member (6, 66) urging the blocking member (4) towards its working position, towards the upstream side.
  5. Conditioning device according to Claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the actuating device (9, 10) for actuating the pushing member (8) is of the mechanical and/or pneumatic and/or magnetic and/or hydraulic type and comprises a manually and/or automatically actuatable switch (10).
  6. Conditioning device according to Claim 5, characterized in that the actuating device (9, 10) for actuating the pushing member (8) comprises the switch (10) which is formed by a push-button or by a pivoting lever and a mechanism (9) for the transmission of force between the switch (10) and the pushing member (4).
  7. Conditioning device according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the locking member (3) is urged towards its active position by a return member (15) such as a spring.
  8. Conditioning device according to Claim 7, characterized in that the locking member (3) is movable in translation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (A), and in that, when the at least one coupling member (2) is in the moved-away position, a stop (32) prevents the passage of the locking member (3) from the inactive position towards the active position, and in that, when the at least one coupling member (2) is in the moved-in position, the passage of the locking member (3) from the inactive position towards the active position is not impeded by the stop (32).
  9. Conditioning device according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises an actuating device (16, 17) for actuating the valve pusher (11) of the mechanical and/or pneumatic and/or magnetic and/or hydraulic type, said actuating device comprising a manually and/or automatically actuatable actuator (17).
  10. Conditioning device according to Claim 9, characterized in that the actuating device (16, 17) for actuating the valve pusher (11) comprises a switch (17) formed by a push-button or a pivoting lever and a mechanism (16) for the transmission of force between the switch (17) and the valve pusher (11).
  11. Assembly comprising a pressurized-fluid container (18) provided with a filling and/or tapping connector (1) and a conditioning device according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, the connector (1) comprising a body of cylindrical general shape extending along a longitudinal axis and the outer surface of which comprises coupling members (13) intended to engage with the coupling members (2) of the conditioning device in order to allow removable coupling between these two entities, the filling connector (1) comprising an internal circuit (20) accommodating at least one valve (19) for closing the internal circuit, said internal circuit (20) opening at a terminal face of said filling connector (1).
  12. Use of a conditioning device according to any one of Claims 1 to 10 or of an assembly according to Claim 11 for filling and/or tapping a pressurized-fluid container (18), in particular a pressurized-gas cylinder.
  13. Method for filling or tapping a container (18) with pressurized fluid, the container (18) comprising a cock provided with a filling connector (1), the method comprising a mechanical connection, on the connector (1), of a conditioning device according to any one of Claims 1 to 11, the filling connector (1) having a body of cylindrical general shape extending along a longitudinal axis and the outer surface of which comprises coupling members (13) intended to engage with coupling members (2) of the conditioning device in order to allow removable coupling between the filling device and said connector (1), the filling connector (1) comprising an internal circuit (20) accommodating at least one valve (19) for closing the internal circuit, said internal circuit (20) opening at a terminal face of said filling connector (1), characterized in that the mechanical connection comprises a step of contact between the blocking member (4) and the terminal face of said filling connector (1), in which step the tightness seal (24) of the blocking member (4) provides sealing between the duct (7) of the conditioning device and the internal circuit (20) of the filling connector (1), the method additionally comprising a step of moving the blocking member (4) towards its rest position by relative drawing-together between the conditioning device and the filling connector (1), and a step of moving the at least one coupling member (2) from its moved-away position towards its moved-in position with coupling on the body of the filling connector (1).
  14. Method according to Claim 13, characterized in that it comprises a step of clamping by pushing the blocking member (4) against the terminal face of said connector (1) via a pushing force provided by a movable pushing member (8) controlled by the actuating device (9, 10).
  15. Method according to Claim 14, characterized in that it comprises a step of locking the at least one coupling member (2) in the moved-in position via a movable locking member (3) of the conditioning device.
  16. Method according to Claim 14 or 15, characterized in that it comprises a step of moving the valve pusher (11) of the conditioning device in the upstream direction via an actuating device (9, 10) in order to open at least one closure valve (19) of the internal circuit of the filling connector (1).
EP20768577.7A 2019-09-25 2020-09-08 Packaging device, assembly comprising such a device and a container, use thereof and a method for filling or withdrawing Active EP4034803B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1910559A FR3101125B1 (en) 2019-09-25 2019-09-25 Packaging device, assembly comprising such a device and a container, its use and a method of filling or drawing off
PCT/EP2020/075050 WO2021058276A1 (en) 2019-09-25 2020-09-08 Packaging device, assembly comprising such a device and a container, use thereof and a method for filling or withdrawing

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EP4034803A1 EP4034803A1 (en) 2022-08-03
EP4034803C0 EP4034803C0 (en) 2023-11-22
EP4034803B1 true EP4034803B1 (en) 2023-11-22

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US (1) US12117127B2 (en)
EP (1) EP4034803B1 (en)
AR (1) AR120090A1 (en)
AU (1) AU2020355443A1 (en)
CA (1) CA3151506A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2969365T3 (en)
FR (1) FR3101125B1 (en)
PL (1) PL4034803T3 (en)
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PL4034803T3 (en) 2024-04-15
US12117127B2 (en) 2024-10-15
CA3151506A1 (en) 2021-04-01
FR3101125A1 (en) 2021-03-26
EP4034803C0 (en) 2023-11-22
AR120090A1 (en) 2022-02-02
FR3101125B1 (en) 2021-12-31
WO2021058276A1 (en) 2021-04-01
EP4034803A1 (en) 2022-08-03
AU2020355443A1 (en) 2022-04-14
US20220373139A1 (en) 2022-11-24
ES2969365T3 (en) 2024-05-17

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