EP4138755A1

EP4138755A1 - Assembly for connection and transfer between controlled atmosphere cells, corresponding implementation method and controlled atmosphere facility

Info

Publication number: EP4138755A1
Application number: EP21721222.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Guillaume RIBOT; John Mumford
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Aspida
Priority date: 2020-04-23
Filing date: 2021-04-22
Publication date: 2023-03-01
Also published as: WO2021214700A1; FR3109522A1; FR3109522B1

Abstract

Said assembly comprises a first connection and transfer member (10), comprising a first seal (20) and a second seal (40), as well as a first lock, in particular a zipper lock (120), at least partially covering the first and second adjoining seals, a second connection and transfer member (11), comprising a third seal (60) and a fourth seal (80), a second lock, in particular a zipper lock (160), at least partially covering the third and fourth adjoining seals, a third lock, in particular a zipper lock, which is referred to as a separating lock (140) and covers all of the first and third adjoining seals (20, 60), as well as a fourth lock, in particular a zipper lock, which is referred to as a separating lock (180) and covers all of the second and fourth adjoining seals (40, 80). Said different locks each have a closed position in which they maintain contact between the opposing faces of the seals that they connect, as well as an open position for enabling a passage to be formed between said faces, which provides for transfer, and also mechanical connection, between said cells, in particular sealed transfer and mechanical connection in order to pool the internal spaces of the cells while ensuring that contamination is contained.

Description

Connection and transfer assembly between controlled atmosphere cells, corresponding implementation process and controlled atmosphere installation

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to the field of aseptic enclosures or enclosures with a controlled atmosphere for medical or industrial use, and more particularly an assembly allowing the transfer and connection between cells with a controlled atmosphere. It also relates to a method for using this assembly, ensuring in particular the transfer of materials and / or people between these cells. Finally, it relates to a controlled atmosphere installation, which comprises controlled atmosphere cells as well as at least one transfer and connection assembly above.

According to a first main variant of the invention, each controlled atmosphere cell is a containment cell, which is provided with at least one wall forming a delimitation between two spaces, which are advantageously mutually hermetic. This confinement can be of the biological type, intended for the care of infected patients, but also said to be “at risk”, likely to present a high epidemic risk.

The invention also finds application in other types of containment, in particular the handling of radioactive products in the nuclear industry or of toxic products in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry. The aforementioned spaces first include an outdoor, unconfined space. The other space, called confined, must be isolated as absolutely as possible from the aforementioned external space. In the case of biological containment, the patient to be treated is received within this confined space.

According to a second main variant of the invention, each controlled atmosphere cell is a cell where the atmosphere must be of very high purity. This is typically a so-called clean room application.

State of the art

In the context of the implementation of an installation with a controlled atmosphere, comprising several cells with a controlled atmosphere in the sense described above, it is necessary to carry out regular transfers between these cells. These transfers can relate to products, in particular of powdery types, to equipment, for example of the medical type, or to contaminated persons or else presenting a risk of contamination.

Within the installation mentioned above, it is first of all necessary, in general, to bring together the cells whose interior volumes are to be shared. Then it is a matter of mechanically connecting these cells, so as to put these interior volumes in mutual communication.

Once this preliminary reconciliation has been implemented, the transfer between the interior volumes must be carried out while guaranteeing absolute containment of the contamination. In other words, this contamination should not be diffused outside of controlled atmosphere cells. This helps prevent soiling of areas of the facility, which are initially devoid of this contamination.

Finally, when the actual transfer has been completed, it may be advantageous to separate the cells from one another. In this case, these cells are first mechanically disconnected, before being moved apart.

Various industrial solutions have already been proposed in this technical field of transfer between cells in a controlled atmosphere.

We will first mention the device marketed by the ILC Dover company under the brand DoverPac ®. This device, of the “Bag In Bag Out” type, however has certain drawbacks. Indeed it uses a rigid technology, while having a high weight. In addition, it requires the use of a heat seal.

Mention will also be made of the device marketed by the company Romelag under the reference Flecozip (Flecotec). However, this device is not satisfactory either, insofar as it is accompanied by significant contamination at the level of the connection surfaces.

Furthermore, US patent application US 2008276435 discloses a sealed securing system between two cells. This solution, however, is not realistic from an industrial standpoint. In fact, the document does not provide any technical teaching, as regards a possible transfer of materials between the cells. This solution does not allow nor to carry out a mutualisation, between the modules of these cells. Finally, the cells which are connected by means of this securing system cannot be subject to subsequent separation.

Finally, we can cite US Patent 4,485,489, which aims to allow a user wearing a suit to approach and then enter an enclosure that must be decontaminated. For this purpose the combination is equipped with an opening, which is able to cooperate with a complementary opening provided on the wall of the enclosure. These different openings are bordered by flaps, using loop and hook type fasteners. In service, the operator approaches the wall and then causes each shutter of its combination to cooperate with the facing shutter placed on the wall. He can then enter the enclosure, in order to carry out the desired decontamination.

However, there are some drawbacks to the teaching of this latter document. In fact, the aforementioned openings and shutters do not make it possible to guarantee satisfactory sealing. Furthermore, this arrangement does not lend itself to applications involving high mechanical forces.

In view of the above, an objective of the present invention is to remedy, at least partially, the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above.

Another objective of the invention is to provide an assembly, allowing not only a transfer between cells with a controlled atmosphere, but also a mechanical connection between them.

Another objective of the invention is to provide a set, allowing a sealed connection between the aforementioned cells, so as to pool the interior volumes of the latter, while ensuring the containment of contamination.

Another objective of the invention is to provide an assembly allowing a removable connection between the cells, namely an assembly which allows a mechanical separation between these cells after the transfer operation.

Yet another objective of the invention is to provide such an assembly which has satisfactory overall strength, so as to avoid untimely tearing phenomena. Objects of the invention

According to the invention, at least one of the above objectives is achieved by means of an assembly (I; II; IIa - Ni; III) of connection and transfer between cells with a controlled atmosphere (200, 210; 500,510; 800,810), this set comprising:

- a first connection and transfer member (10; 310; 610), comprising a first seal (20; 320; 620) and a second seal (40; 340; 640), as well as a first closure, in particular a first zipper (120; 420; 720), covering at least part of at least one dimension, in particular of the main dimension (XX), of the first and second contiguous joints,

- a second connection and transfer member (11; 311; 611), comprising a third seal (60; 360; 660) and a fourth seal (80; 380; 680), as well as a second closure, in particular a second zipper (160; 460; 760), covering at least part of at least one dimension, in particular of the main dimension, of the third and fourth contiguous joints,

- the first and second closures each having

- A closed position in which it maintains in contact the facing side faces, respectively of the first seal and of the second seal, as well as of the third seal and of the fourth seal, and

an open position in which it allows the formation of a passage between said facing side faces, respectively of the first seal and of the second seal, as well as of the third seal and of the fourth seal, this assembly further comprising: a third closure , in particular a third zipper, called separable (140; 440; 740) covering the whole of said dimension, in particular of the main dimension, of the first and third joints (20,60; 320,360; 620,660) contiguous,

- a fourth closure, in particular a fourth zipper, called separable (180; 480; 780) covering the whole of said dimension, in particular of the main dimension, of the second and fourth seals (40,80; 340,380; 620, 680 ) side by side,

- the third and fourth closures each having

a closed position in which it maintains in mutual contact the facing side faces, respectively of the first seal and of the third seal, as well as of the second seal and of the fourth seal, and - A release position in which it allows separation between the first transfer and connection member and the second connection transfer member.

According to other characteristics of the assembly in accordance with the invention, taken individually or in any technically compatible combination:

- the contact distance (E11) between the side faces of the first seal and the second seal, as well as the contact distance (E12) between the side faces of the third seal of the fourth seal, are each greater than 5 mm, preferably at 10 mm.

- the contact distance (E21) between the side faces of the first seal and the third seal, as well as the contact distance (E22) between the side faces of the second seal of the fourth seal, are each greater than 5 mm, preferably at 10 mm.

- Each seal is made of an elastomeric material, in particular of silicone, preferably of silicone extruded from a bi-material of different characteristics, for example of different hardnesses.

- each joint is solid, and has a self-supporting structure.

- the first to fourth joints are likely to be contiguous, so as to form a central contact zone (ZC).

- at least one heating means is provided in the vicinity of said central contact zone.

- The first closure and / or the second closure is a non-separable closure, covering only a fraction of said dimension.

- The non-separable closure comprises a slot extending over said fraction of said dimension, said slot being bordered by two areas not covered by said non-separable closure.

- This set includes first securing means between the two joints of the same transfer member.

- This assembly comprises second securing means between the opposite joints, belonging respectively to the first and to the second transfer member.

- The first and or second securing means comprise resilient snap-fastening securing means.

- The resilient snap fastening means comprise a heel, optionally provided with at least one bead, belonging to a first seal, as well as a notch, optionally provided with at least one cavity, belonging to a second seal, the heel being able to cooperate with the notch, the or each bead also possibly being able to cooperate with the or each cavity.

- This assembly comprises permanent fixing means, making it possible to fix the first and the second transfer and connection member respectively on a first and a second cell with a controlled atmosphere.

- The permanent fixing means comprise fixing means by gluing.

- The adhesive fixing means comprise 2 strips, mounted on each joint, these 2 strips being able to be glued on either side of a wall of said controlled atmosphere cell.

The subject of the invention is also a controlled atmosphere installation comprising a first controlled atmosphere cell (200; 500; 800), at least one second a second controlled atmosphere cell (210; 510; 810), as well as at least a connection and transfer assembly above, the first transfer and connection member (10; 310; 610) being fixed, in particular permanently, on a wall of said first cell, while the second transfer member and connection (11; 311; 611) is fixed, in particular permanently, on a wall of said second cell.

According to other characteristics of the installation according to the invention, taken individually or in any technically compatible combination:

- The joints belonging to each connection and transfer member define an open contour, extending one (20,60) next to the other (40,80).

- The seals belonging to each connection and transfer member (310,311; 610,611) define a closed contour, each of said members comprising an inner peripheral seal (340,380; 640,680) and an outer peripheral seal (320,360; 620,660).

- For each connection and transfer assembly, the two connection and transfer members define an insert (506, 516) of each respective cell (500,510).

- The installation comprises a plurality of cells (500 - 590), each pair of facing cells being provided with a first and a second connection and transfer members, which are able to cooperate with each other.

- The so-called end cells, among said plurality of cells, comprise a single transfer connection member, while each of the so-called intermediate cells comprises two connection and transfer members, provided on separate walls of each intermediate cell. - A first connection and transfer set delimits an insert of a first cell, called main cell (800), while the second cell, called reserve cell (810), is received in the interior volume of said first cell.

The subject of the invention is also a method for implementing an installation according to a first embodiment of the invention, a method in which, from a so-called disconnected configuration between two adjacent cells, configuration in which the organs connection and transfer of these adjacent cells are mutually distant,

- these connection and transfer members are brought together so that they adopt a closed connected position, in which they cooperate with each other without however allowing a transfer between the interior volumes of these cells

- These transfer connection members are passed into an open connected position, in which it allows a transfer between the interior volumes of these cells.

The subject of the invention is also a method for implementing an installation according to another embodiment of the invention, a method in which, from a so-called disconnected configuration between the main cell and the reserve cell, configuration in which the connection and transfer members of these adjacent cells are mutually distant,

- a confined auxiliary cell is formed,

- This auxiliary cell confined at a distance from the main cell is evacuated.

Brief description of the fiqures

The invention will be described below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, given solely by way of non-limiting examples, in which:

[Fig. 1] is a perspective view, illustrating a transfer and connection assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[Fig. 2] is a cross-sectional view, illustrating a seal belonging to the assembly of FIG. 1. [Fig. 3] is a cross-sectional view, similar to FIG. 2, illustrating the mutual interlocking between the different joints forming the assembly of FIG. 1.

[Fig. 4] is a perspective view, illustrating on a larger scale fixing bands, belonging to the assembly according to the invention.

[Fig. 5] is a front view, illustrating the attachment of an assembly according to the invention to a wall of a controlled atmosphere cell.

[Fig. 6] is a top view, illustrating the attachment of the assembly according to the invention to the wall of the cell of Figure 5.

[Fig. 7] is a top view, illustrating a so-called non-separable closure, belonging to the assembly according to the invention, in its first functional position.

[Fig. 8] is a top view, illustrating the non-separable closure of FIG. 7 in its second functional position.

[Fig. 9] is a top view, illustrating a so-called separable closure, belonging to the assembly according to the invention, in its first functional position.

[Fig. 10] is a top view, illustrating the separable closure of FIG. 7 in its second functional position.

[Fig. 11] is a front view, illustrating the non-separable closure in its position of FIG. 7.

[Fig. 12] is a front view, illustrating the non-separable closure in its position of FIG. 8.

[Fig. 13] is a front view, illustrating the separable closure in its position of the figure

9.

[Fig. 14] is a front view, illustrating the separable closure in its position of FIG.

10.

[Fig. 15] is a top view, illustrating an installation according to the invention, comprising two controlled atmosphere cells as well as an assembly according to the invention, in a disconnected configuration.

[Fig. 16] is a top view, similar to Figure 15, showing the cells and assembly of Figure 15 in a closed connected configuration.

[Fig. 17] is a perspective view, showing from a first angle the cells and assembly of Figure 15 in an open connected configuration.

[Fig. 18] is a perspective view, similar to Figure 17, illustrating from another angle the open connected configuration of this Figure 17.

[Fig. 19] is a perspective view, illustrating an installation according to a second embodiment of the invention, in a disconnected configuration. [Fig. 20] is a front view illustrating a controlled atmosphere cell belonging to the installation of FIG. 19, which is provided with a first connection and transfer member.

[Fig. 21] is a perspective view, illustrating the installation of Figure 19 in a closed connected configuration.

[Fig. 22] is a cross-sectional view, illustrating the cooperation between the transfer connection members, in this closed connected configuration.

[Fig. 23] is a perspective view, illustrating the installation of Figure 19 in an open connected configuration.

[Fig. 24] is a cross-sectional view, illustrating the cooperation between the transfer connection members, in this open connected configuration.

[Fig. 25] is a perspective view, similar to Figure 3, illustrating the open connected configuration of an installation according to a variant of the second embodiment of the invention.

[Fig. 26] is a perspective view, similar to Figure 19, illustrating the disconnected configuration of an installation according to another variant of the second regulation mode of the invention.

[Fig. 27] is a perspective view, illustrating an installation according to a third embodiment of the invention, in a disconnected configuration.

[Fig. 28] is a longitudinal sectional view, illustrating the installation of Figure 27 in this disconnected configuration.

[Fig. 29] is a longitudinal sectional view, similar to Figure 28, illustrating the installation of Figure 27 in an intermediate configuration.

[Fig. 30] is a longitudinal sectional view, similar to Figure 28, illustrating the installation of Figure 27 in a final configuration.

[Fig. 31] is a front view, illustrating the two sealing zones allowed by the seals belonging to the assembly according to the invention.

[Fig. 32] is a front view, illustrating an alternative embodiment of the seals belonging to the assembly according to the invention.

The following alphanumeric references are used in the figures and in the following detailed description:

Connection and transfer set according to the invention

124,126,148,168 Interface between contiguous side faces of the seal

10.11 First and second connection and transfer device

20,40,60,80 First, second, third and fourth seal 20A, 40A, 60A, 80A Front end face of seal 20,40,60,80

20B, 40B, 60B, 80B Rear end face of gasket 20,40,60,80

20C, 40C, 60C, 80C Internal side face of gasket 20,40,60,80

20D, 40D, 60D, 80D External side face of gasket 20,40,60,80

21 Joint base

22,42,62,82 Notch

23 Bottom of the joint

24.25 Seal wings

26,46,66,86 Cavity

27 Cavity

28.48.68.88 Heel

29.30 Heel pad 28

31, 32 Ramps

33.53.73.93 Protrusion

34.54.74.94 Depression 35.55 Middle section of the joint

36,37,56,57 Free end section of the joint

120,160 First and second closures, not separable

122.142 First and second slide

124 Leaf

126 Slit in sheet 124

130 Central body of sheet 124

131.151 Free bands

132.152 Supplementary sheet

133.153 Body

134.154 Free band

138,158,178,198 Cursors

140,180 First and second closures, separable

142,162 Slides

144,164 Teeth

200,210 Controlled atmosphere cell

201 Cell wall 200

202 Opening in the wall 201

203,204 Edges of opening 202

310.311 Connection and transfer device

320,340,360,380 Seal 420,440,460Closure

431, 451, 471, 491 Fixing bands

434,454,474,494 Fixing strips

438,458 Cursor

500.510 Controlled atmosphere cells

501.511 Open wall of 500 502 Opening

503.513 Rim

505.515 Full wall of 500

506.516 Insert 1000,1300 Controlled atmosphere installation V200, V200 ’Internal volume

R, R Intermediate passage

detailed description

Figure 1 shows a connection and transfer assembly according to the invention, which is designated as a whole by the reference I. This assembly essentially comprises a first connection and transfer member 10 which includes in particular a first seal 20 and a second seal 40, as well as a second transfer connection member 11 which includes in particular a third seal 60 and a fourth seal 80. This assembly I, of generally parallelepipedal shape, has a so-called main dimension XX, as well as two dimensions said secondary YY and ZZ By way of nonlimiting examples, the above dimensions are as follows: length X1 of the assembly I, between 10 and 300 centimeters

- width Y1 of assembly I, between 3 and 8 centimeters

- Height Z1 of assembly I, generally close to the width Y above, namely between 3 and 8 centimeters.

The seal 20 will be described in more detail, it being understood that the other seals 40,60,80 are substantially identical. The mechanical elements of the seals 40,60,80, which are similar to those of the seal 20, are assigned the same reference numbers increased respectively by the numbers 20, 40 and 60. The seal 20 is made of any suitable material, with a view to perform a sealing function, but also its thermal or chemical decontamination in the event that the latter is used in contaminated volumes. By way of nonlimiting example, the following material will be mentioned: silicone which can be extruded from a bi-material of different characteristics (for example, without limitation, of different hardnesses).

Reference will now be made more particularly to FIG. 2, showing a cross section of the seal 20, in which the above directions are recalled. This seal 20 comprises a base 21, illustrated in dotted lines, of rectangular shape, in particular substantially square. The first side of this rectangle is hollowed out with a notch 22, intended to form a mortise. The walls of this notch define a U, the bottom of which is denoted 23, as well as 24 and 25 the wings. These wings 24,25 are slightly inclined with respect to each other, so that the distance which separates them increases away from the bottom 23. We note a24 and a25 the angles formed by these wings, with reference to a straight line perpendicular to the bottom 23. These angles typically have a value between 5 and 25 °, in particular close to 10 °. Furthermore, in the vicinity of its junction with the bottom 23, each wing 24,25 is hollowed out with a respective cavity 26,27.

On a second side of the base 21, adjacent to that equipped with the notch 22, there is provided a heel 28, intended to form a tenon as will be seen below. This heel 28 has the same shape as the mortise 22, so as to be able to penetrate the latter during assembly between the various joints 20,40,60,80. In particular, this heel 28 is provided with beads 29,30, each of which is able to cooperate with a respective cavity 26,27.

Furthermore, at the level of the third and fourth sides of the base 21, there are ramps 31, 32 which are inclined towards the inside of this base. The wing 25 is extended, towards the second side, by a projection 33 forming a slight extra thickness. Finally, a depression 34 is formed between the tenon 28 and the projection 33 above.

Figure 3 shows the assembly between the different joints 20,40,60,80, the shape of which has just been described above. In substance, each tenon respectively 28,48,68,88 cooperates with a mortise respectively 22,42,62,82. Furthermore, each projection 33,53,73,93 respectively cooperates with a depression respectively 34,54,74,94. Finally, the inclined ramps of two adjacent joints delimit recesses 38,58,78,98 (see FIG. 3), the function of which will be described below.

In Figures 2 and 3 there is shown a particular embodiment of the seals, belonging to the assembly according to the invention. This embodiment presents specific advantages, in particular in that it guarantees satisfactory interlocking between these gaskets both mechanically and in terms of sealing, without however affecting the capacity of the gaskets to be separated two by two in the desire for an opening. However, this embodiment is not limiting, namely that it is possible to impart other shapes to these seals. In the other figures, for the sake of clarity, the various seals are shown schematically, with a square section.

We further note:

- 20A, 40A, 60A, 80A the so-called front end face of each seal, namely which is fixed in service against the wall of a cell;

- 20B, 40B, 60B, 80B the so-called rear end face of each seal, namely which is opposite to the above front face;

- 20C, 40C, 60C, 80C the so-called internal side face of each seal, namely which is adjacent to the opposite seal;

- 20D, 40D, 60D, 80D the so-called outer side face of each seal, namely which is opposite the inner side face above;

- 124 the interface between the contiguous side faces 20C and 40C of the first and second joints;

- 126 the interface between the contiguous side faces 20B and 60B of the first and third joints;

- 148 the interface between the contiguous side faces 40B and 80B of the second and fourth joints;

- 168 the interface between the side faces 60C and 80C of the third and fourth joints.

The assembly I according to the invention is furthermore equipped with several slides. On the one hand, some of these slides form a first and a second, so-called non-separable, closures 120 and 160. These closures are provided on the front end faces of each pair of seals 20,40 and 60,80 belonging to the same member. connection and transfer 10 or 11. On the other hand, other of these slides form a first and a second closures, called separable 140 and 180. These additional closures are provided on the outer side faces of each pair of seals 20 , 60 and 40,80 belonging to different connection and transfer organs.

We will first describe the non-separable closure 120, it being understood that the closure 160 is similar. This closure 120 comprises a first slide 122, which is integral with the first seal 20 belonging to the first transfer member 10. By elsewhere, a second slide 142 is integral with the second seal 40 belonging to this first transfer member. Each of these guides 122, 142, of a type known per se, has a plurality of teeth.

Furthermore, the front end face 20A, 40A of each of the seals 20, 40 receives a sheet 124, made of any suitable material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU). This sheet is hollowed out with a slot 126, which is aligned with the I24 interface as defined above. This slot delimits facing edges, on each of which is fixed a respective slide 122 and 142. The fixing of each slide on the sheet 124 is carried out by any suitable means, in particular by gluing or welding.

The slot 126 and, therefore, the non-separable closure extends over only a part of the main dimension X of each joint 20 and 40. We denote 35 and 55, the middle section of each joint occupied by the closure, as well as 36,56 and 37,57 the end sections which are called free, ie they are not covered by a closure. Typically the length X36 and X37 of these sections, which is visible in Figure 5, is generally constant and is not typically a function of the length X. This length X36 and X37 is generally between 2 and 5 centimeters.

The sheet 124 has a transverse dimension greater than that of the contiguous joints, that is to say placed side by side. In other words, this sheet defines a central body 130, in which the aforementioned slot is formed. This body, which covers the front end face 20A, 40A of the joints, is extended laterally, in opposite directions, by free bands 131, 151, which are not pressed against the joints.

Furthermore, each of the outer side faces 20D, 40D is coated by means of an additional sheet 132,152. Each of these sheets has a transverse dimension greater than that of the above external lateral face. Consequently, it delimits a body 133,153 covering a respective outer side face, which is extended by a free band 134,154, which is not pressed against the seal.

The separable closure 140 will now be described, it being understood that the closure 180 is similar. This separable closure has a structure similar to that of the closure 120, in particular in that it comprises slides 142, 162, each of which has 144,164 teeth, as well as a 146,166 fixing strip. However, closure 140 differs from closure 120 in that it extends over the entire major dimension of the joints. In other words, the latter are devoid of free end sections, such as those 36, 37, 56 and 57.

The various closures described above, both of the separable type and of the non-separable type, are also equipped by means of sliders 138,158,178,198. The latter, which are of a type known per se, comprise two grooves which meet each other, so as to mesh with the teeth of the slides, or else to separate these teeth from one another.

Depending on the position of the sliders, each closure, whether of separable type or non-separable type, has two functional positions. As first illustrated in Figures 7 and 11. the non-separable closures 120 and 160 have a so-called closed functional position, in which the edges of the slot are mutually joined by means of the slides.

By manipulating the slider, each non-separable closure is made to pass into its so-called open functional position, which is illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 12. In this open position, the edges of the slot are no longer joined together so that 'they can provide an intermediate passage, which is noted P for the closure 120 and P' for the closure 160. There is then separation of each interface, namely I24 and I68 respectively.

The transverse dimension of the assembly I can then undergo an increase, up to a value UΊ shown in particular in FIG. 8. The ratio UΊ / U1, between the value UΊ in FIGS. 8 and 12 and the value Y1 in FIG. 1 , will be chosen by those skilled in the art to ensure convenient transfer between cells. On the other hand, in this open position, the two seals remain mutually integral. In fact, the ends 36 and 56 respectively, as well as 37 and 57, are kept in mutual contact since the sheet 124 has no slit at its ends. This consequently explains the denomination of “non-separable” closures.

As illustrated in Figures 9 and 13. the separable closures 140 and 180 first have a functional connection position. The latter is analogous to the position of closures described above, with reference to non-separable closures. In this connection position of the closures 140 and 180, there is then a mechanical connection between the members 10 and 11.

Then, by manipulating each slider 158 and 198, each separable closure is passed into a so-called functional position of disconnection, which ensures the disconnection between the members 10 and 11. In other words, in this position shown in FIGS. 10 and 14 , the joints 20 and 60 respectively as well as 40 and 80, which are initially joined together in the connection position of FIGS. 9 and 13, are no longer integral with one another. This therefore explains the name of “separable” closures.

We will now describe the attachment of the first transfer member 10, comprising in particular the seals 20 and 40, as well as the closure 120, on a wall 201 of a controlled atmosphere cell 200. This wall 201 is hollowed out with an opening 202. , the width of which is denoted Y202. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the seals 20 and 40 are placed so that their front end face 20A, 40A is flush with the respective edges 203 and 204 of the opening 202. It is preferable to avoid any compression of these seals, according to the specification. direction Y, so as to limit the risks of the sheets 130, 132 and 152 peeling.

Each edge, 203 and 204 respectively, is sandwiched by the bands 131 and 134, respectively, as well as 151 and 154. We denote by Y131, Y134, Y151 and Y154 the dimension of these different bands, in the direction Y, which corresponds to a so-called overlap width at the wall. The mutual fixing between these different bands and these rims is implemented, preferably, by gluing. As shown in particular in Figure 5, for a user located inside the cell 200, the closure 120 is easily accessible, being able to be operated by means of the slider 138.

FIGS. 15 to 18 illustrate a controlled atmosphere installation 1000, comprising two controlled atmosphere cells 200 and 210, as well as the connection and transfer assembly I. The transfer member 10 is secured to the cell 200 as described above, while the transfer member 11 is secured in a similar manner to the cell 210. The installation 1000 according to the invention has three configurations. main functionalities, namely a disconnected configuration, a closed connected configuration, that is to say without the possibility of transfer, and finally an open connected configuration, namely allowing a transfer. It is first of all assumed that the cells 200 and 210 are mutually distant, as shown in FIG. 15. This corresponds to the disconnected configuration of the installation 1000, for which the two separable closures adopt their disconnected position, such as as described above.

The next step is to bring the cells 200 and 210 closer together, as shown in Figure 16, so that the connection and transfer members 10 and 11 can cooperate. With a view to the connection of these members 10 and 11, the sliders are manipulated so that the separable closures 140 and 180 are placed in their connection position, which is shown in FIGS. 9 and 13. This then corresponds to the closed connected configuration. of installation 1000.

Then the sliders 138 and 158 are manipulated so as to place the non-separable closures 120 and 140 in their open position. This leads to the formation of P and P passages, which extend in continuation of each other. These passages are illustrated both in Figures 17 and 18, which show the plant 1000 from two different angles in its open connected configuration.

As shown in these figures, this configuration offers the possibility of pooling the interior volumes V200 and V210 of the respective cells. It therefore allows a transfer between these cells, while ensuring containment of the contamination. This transfer possibility is shown by the double arrow T in Figure 18. It is then possible to transport, from one cell to another, medical equipment, food, or the patient himself.

When the above transfer has been implemented, various possibilities can be envisaged. It is first possible to keep the non-separable closures 120,160 in their open position, so as to allow another transfer. As an alternative, the sliders can also be manipulated again, so as to return these non-separable closures to their initial closed position. Then, the separable closures 140,180 can optionally be actuated, so as to disconnect the cells 200,210 again.

Figure 31 illustrates various advantages, which are linked to the structure of the seals used in accordance with the invention. As can be seen in this figure, the invention offers a so-called “dual” seal, that is to say it makes it possible to create two distinct zones. sealing. For the purposes of the invention, a sealing zone can be defined as an interface through which the passage of a gas:

- not possible ;

- or is limited to a maximum leak rate according to normative criteria at a given pressure, regardless of the direction of application of this pressure on said interface. In this regard, we can cite certain standards such as:

- ISO 10648-2 Containment enclosures. Classification according to their tightness and associated control methods.

- NF EN 12469-2000 Annex B. Leak test method for the enclosure of type I and II microbiological safety cabinets.

- AS NZS 2243.3-2010 Safety in laboratories - Microbiological safety and containment.

- Guidelines for Laboratory Biosafety 2004. Canada.

With regard to the present invention, the pressure value at which the sealing zone must satisfy its sealing performance (or maximum allowable leakage rate) will advantageously dictate the mechanical strength of all the seals 20, 40, 60, 80 between them, as well as mechanical closures 120, 140, 160 and 180. The nominal pressure values will then be between a few tens of Pascal (in over or under vacuum) and less than ten Bar. The test conditions and validation of the sealing performance of the sealing zone will be advantageously increased in terms of pressure, so as to integrate the safety coefficients inherent in the sector of activity and / or the normative framework applied.

With reference to FIG. 31, a first sealing zone E1 is defined by the facing faces, on the one hand of the seals 20 and 40, on the other hand of the seals 60 and 80. The distances of E11 and E12 are denoted by contact, respectively between the gaskets 20 and 40, as well as between the gaskets 60 and 80. Advantageously, for each interface, each contact distance E11 or E12 is greater than 5 mm, preferably 10 mm. In this way, the total contact distance of zone E1 is advantageously greater than twice each of these values, that is to say 10 mm, preferably 20 mm.

Furthermore, a second sealing zone E2 is defined by the opposite faces, on the one hand of the seals 20 and 60, on the other hand of the seals 40 and 80. E21 and E22 denote the contact distances, respectively between the gaskets 20 and 60, thus against the gaskets 40 and 80. Advantageously, for each interface, each contact distance E21 or E22 is greater than 5 mm, preferably 10 mm. In this way, the total contact distance of zone E2 is advantageously greater than twice each of these values, that is to say 10 mm, preferably 20 mm.

As emerges from the implementation described above, the sealing zones E1 and E2 are effective, in the closed position of the zippers 120 to 180. Furthermore, a passage can be formed in the first zone d sealing E1, by opening two of these closures. Similarly, a separation between the members 10 and 11 can be made on either side of the second sealing zone E2, by opening the other two closures.

Figure 31 highlights the way in which the invention overcomes the drawbacks of US patent 4485489. Indeed, in the device according to the teaching of this US patent, there is a substantial intermediate volume which is likely to be filled with stale air. It is understood that, if a user wishes to decontaminate a space, he must access it from an initially uncontaminated area. However, during this action by the user, the stale air tends to pollute this uncontaminated area, which is obviously counterproductive.

With reference to FIGS. 3 and 31, ZC denotes the so-called central contact zone between the four contiguous joints 20 to 80. The existence of this contact zone is permitted by the nature of the joints, as well as by the overall geometry of the assembly according to the invention. It can be seen that, thanks to this contact zone, any intermediate volume between the opposite faces of the joints is reduced to a marginal value. Therefore, the dual sealing of the invention, as described above, eliminates any significant volume potentially filled with stale air. In this way, during the decontamination operation, the initial uncontaminated area does not suffer from untimely pollution.

Furthermore, according to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, provision can be made to place at least one heating element in the vicinity of this contact zone ZC. In this way, by activating these heating elements, there is elimination of any heat-sensitive pollutants liable to be trapped in the marginal intermediate volume described above. It will be noted that the use of silicone, as the material constituting the seals, is very particularly advantageous because this material is resistant to high temperatures allowing the elimination of these pollutants. It will be noted that, advantageously, the seals of the invention are of the solid type. With this in mind, they can be qualified as self-supporting (or “free standing” in English), ie they have their own mechanical strength. These characteristics make it possible to further increase the effectiveness of the sealing zones, described above. Moreover, thanks to these characteristics, the seals according to the invention avoid tearing phenomena. This is to be compared with the teaching of the above American patent, in which the various mechanical elements are mutually secured by a relatively fragile fastening, of the loop and hook type.

Figure 32 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the seals, which are intended to equip the connection and transfer assembly according to the invention. In this figure 32 the gaskets 1020 to 1080 differ from those 20 to 80 above, in that they are not rectangular in shape. In fact, each joint 1020 to 1080 has an overall L shape. In this way, these four mutually contiguous joints define a cross. We denote E1 as well as E2 the two sealing zones thus created, in a manner analogous to what has been described with reference to FIG. 31. We also denote E11 to E22 the various contact distances, which correspond to the largest dimension of each L.

In Figures 31 and 32, the contact surfaces are rectilinear. Therefore, the contact distances E11 to E22 correspond to the dimension between the ends of these contact surfaces. By comparison, the seals of Figures 2 and 3 have contact surfaces which are not rectilinear. In this way, the contact distances are significantly increased.

Advantageously, the dimension between opposite ends of each joint is less than 10 cm, preferably 5 cm. This makes it possible to reduce the overall size of the assembly, according to the invention.

Figures 19 to 24 illustrate a second embodiment of the invention. In these figures 19 to 24 the mechanical elements, similar to those of Figures 1 to 18, are assigned the same reference numbers increased by the number 300.

In the first embodiment, each of the joints 20,40,60,80 has an elongated shape in a main direction, in this case the X direction. Consequently, these different joints 20,40,60,80 define an open contour. . On the other hand, in the second embodiment, each of the joints 320,340,360,380 defines a closed contour, in this case of substantially rectangular shape. Under these conditions, for each connection and transfer member 310,311, there is a seal called interior 340,380, at the periphery of which extends a seal called exterior 320,360.

The installation 1300, according to this second embodiment, comprises two controlled atmosphere cells 500 and 510, respectively. These cells, which are generally identical, are of parallelepipedal shape. They each have five solid walls 505.515, as well as one open wall 501.511. The latter is hollowed out with an opening 502, at the periphery of which extends a ledge 503,513. This opening is partially occupied by an insert 506.516, the dimensions of which are slightly smaller than those of the rim.

As shown in Figures 20 to 22, the insert 506 is attached to the flange 503 via the first connection and transfer member 310, mentioned above. The fixing of the outer seal 320 on the rim 503, as well as the fixing of the inner seal 340 on the insert 506, are similar to what has been described above with reference to the fixing of the seals 20,40. In essence, the rim 503 is sandwiched by fixing strips 431, 434 fitted to the seal 320, which are glued to the opposite faces of this rim. Furthermore, the insert 506 is sandwiched by fixing strips 451, 454 fitted to the seal 340, which are glued to the opposite faces of this insert.

With reference to FIG. 20, the seals 320 and 340 cooperate with a closure 420. Unlike the closure 120 described above, this closure 420 is of the separable type. It extends in a closed loop, namely on all four sides of both the rim and the insert. Therefore it has a closed position which is shown in figure 20, as well as an open position in which it allows the separation between the insert and the rim, through the use of a slider 438. As shown in the figure. 22, the seals 360 and 380 cooperate with an additional closure 460, similar to that 420.

In the disconnected position of the installation, the cells are mutually separated while each insert is held on a respective rim, by means of the various seals and of the respective closure 420,460, the latter being in its closed position. In order to place the installation 1300 in its closed connected position, the cells are brought together so that the joints 320,360 and 340,380 respectively are in mutual contact. These joints are then connected by means of a closure separable 440, associated with a slider 458, which is shown in FIG. 24. This closure 440 extends at the level of the interface between the seals 320 and 360, over the entire outer periphery of the latter. Another separable closure 480 is also provided between the seals 340 and 380, which notably comprises a slider 498.

Once the closure 440 has been placed in its closed position, each closure 420,460 is manipulated so as to place them in their open position. This makes it possible to separate each insert 506.516, provided with its respective internal seal 360.380, vis-à-vis the rim 503.513, provided with its respective external seal 320.340. The installation is then in its open connected configuration (see Figures 23 and 24), ensuring the sharing between the interior volumes V500 and V510.

As a variant, illustrated in FIG. 25, provision can be made for this closure 440 to be of the non-separable type, like the closure 120. In this case, it extends only on three sides of the rim and of the insert. With this in mind, the insert 340 can be wound around a vertical axis, denoted A340. In the open connected position of the installation, as shown in Figure 25, this insert is folded against one of the side walls of the cell.

As a further variant, illustrated in Figure 26. it can be provided that the installation comprises a number greater than two cells, which are arranged next to each other. Reference is made to FIG. 26, which illustrates several cells 500 to 590, which are arranged one behind the other. With this in mind, each of the so-called intermediate cells, namely those numbered 510 to 580, is provided with two open walls, placed on opposite faces. More precisely, each end cell is provided with a single connection and transfer member, respectively 310A and 3111. Furthermore, each intermediate cell is equipped with 2 connection and transfer members, respectively 311A and 310B,. .., 311 H and 3101. In this embodiment, there is therefore a plurality of connection and transfer sets 11a to Ni.

In this figure 26, the successive cells extend in a straight line, given that they are placed one behind the other. By way of a variant not shown, provision can however be made for the cells to extend along broken lines. With this in mind, open walls are provided, not on opposite faces, but on adjacent faces. Figures 27 to 30 illustrate a third embodiment of the invention. In these figures the mechanical elements, similar to those of the second embodiment, are assigned the same reference numbers increased by the number 300.

The controlled atmosphere installation 1600, illustrated in these Figures 27 to 30, firstly comprises a main cell 800, of generally parallelepipedal shape. This main cell is associated with a so-called reserve cell 810 which, unlike previous embodiments, is housed inside the main cell. This auxiliary cell 810, which has a size much smaller than that of the main cell, delimits an interior volume V810 bordered by walls 826 and 836, preferably of a flexible nature.

The bottom 803 of the main cell 800 is equipped with a first transfer connection member 610, which includes gaskets 620 and 640, as well as a separable closure. Furthermore, the reserve cell 810 is equipped with a second transfer connection member 611. The latter includes gaskets 660 and 680, provided at the junction between the walls 826 and 836, as well as a separable closure. As in the second embodiment, the seals 620, 640, 660 and 680 define closed contours, in this case substantially circular. There is essentially an inner seal 640 and 680 respectively, around the periphery of which extends an outer seal 620 and 660 respectively.

In the disconnected configuration of these cells 800 and 810, the different joints 620 to 680 do not cooperate with each other. In practice, the auxiliary cell is stored, for example near a side wall of the main cell. It is now assumed that one wishes to evacuate, without loss of confinement, an object or a person likely to be contaminated, referenced P. In this case, this object P is placed on a central removable insert 806 of the bottom 803, which insert is defined by the peripheral seals 620 and 640. Next, according to the arrows F810 in FIGS. 27 and 28, the reserve cell 810 is brought together in the direction of the bottom 803.

At the end of this movement, the cells are in a connected position for which, as in the previous embodiments, the joints 640 and 680 now cooperate with each other. As shown in figure 29, the gaskets are joined 620 and 660, by means of a closure 760, as well as the seals 640 and 680 by means of an additional closure 780.

It is then possible to separate each inner seal, respectively 640 and 680, relative to its outer seal 620 and 660. At the end of this separation, as shown in Figure 30, an auxiliary cell called discharge 910 is formed. last, which is bordered by the walls 816 826, can be removed with respect to the main cell, according to the arrow F910 in FIG. 30. It will be noted that, during this evacuation operation, there is no risk propagation of the contamination, since the object P is confined between the walls 816 and 826.

Claims

1. Assembly (I; Il; IIa - Ni; III) for connection and transfer between controlled atmosphere cells (200, 210; 500,510; 800,810), this assembly comprising:

- a first connection and transfer member (10; 310; 610), comprising a first seal (20; 320; 620) and a second seal (40; 340; 640),

- a second connection and transfer member (11; 311; 611), comprising a third seal (60; 360; 660) and a fourth seal (80; 380; 680),

- said gaskets being able to form o a first sealing zone (E1) in which, on the one hand the first and second gaskets are joined, on the other hand the third and fourth gaskets are contiguous, o as well as a second sealing zone (E2) distinct from the first sealing zone, second zone in which, on the one hand, the first and third seals are contiguous, on the other hand the second and fourth seals are contiguous,

- the first connection and transfer member further comprising a first closure, in particular a first zipper (120; 420; 720), covering at least part of at least one dimension, in particular of the main dimension (XX) , first and second jointed joints,

- the second connection and transfer member (11; 311; 611), further comprising a second closure, in particular a second zipper (160; 460; 760), covering at least part of at least one dimension, in particular of the main dimension, of the third and fourth contiguous joints,

- the first and second closures each having

- a closed position in which it maintains in contact the facing side faces, respectively of the first seal and of the second seal, as well as of the third seal and of the fourth seal, so as to form said first sealing zone and

an open position in which it allows the formation of a passage between said facing side faces, respectively of the first seal and of the second seal, as well as of the third seal and of the fourth seal, this assembly further comprising: a third closure , in particular a third zipper, called separable (140; 440; 740) covering the whole of said dimension, in particular of the main dimension, of the first and third joints (20.60; 320.360; 620.660) joined together,

- the third and fourth closures each having

- a closed position in which it maintains in mutual contact the facing side faces, respectively of the first seal and of the third seal, as well as of the second seal and of the fourth seal, so as to form said second sealing zone

- A release position in which it allows separation between the first transfer and connection member and the second connection transfer member.

2. Assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the contact distance (E11) between the side faces of the first seal and of the second seal is greater than 5 mm, preferably 10 mm.

3. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact distance (E12) between the side faces of the third seal and the fourth seal is greater than 5 mm, preferably 10 mm.

4. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact distance (E21) between the side faces of the first seal and the third seal is greater than 5 mm, preferably 10 mm.

5. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact distance (E22) between the side faces of the second seal and the fourth seal is greater than 5 mm, preferably 10 mm.

6. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, in which each seal is made of an elastomeric material, in particular of silicone, preferably of silicone extruded in bi-material of different characteristics, for example of different hardnesses.

7. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each seal is solid, and has a self-supporting structure.

8. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (20; 320; 620), second (40; 340; 640), third (60; 360; 660) and fourth (80; 380; 680) joints are capable of being mutually contiguous, so as to form a central contact zone (ZC) making it possible to substantially eliminate any intermediate volume between these contiguous joints.

9. Assembly according to the preceding claim, comprising at least one heating means provided in the vicinity of said central contact zone.

10. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first closure (120) and / or the second closure (160) is a non-separable closure, covering only a fraction of said dimension, the non-separable closure comprising in particular a slit (126) extending over said fraction of said dimension, said slit being bordered by two zones not covered by said non-separable closure.

11. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that this assembly comprises first securing means (22,46 - 66,82) between the two seals (20,40 - 60,80) of the same member. transfer, as well as second securing means (26.62 - 42.86) between the facing joints (20.60 - 40.80), belonging respectively to the first and to the second transfer member, the first and / or second securing means comprising in particular means for securing by elastic snap-fastening, the securing means by elastic snap-fastening advantageously comprising a heel (48), optionally provided with at least one bead (49,50), belonging to a first seal (40 ), as well as a notch (22), optionally provided with at least one cavity (26,27), belonging to a second seal (20), the heel being able to cooperate with the notch, the or each bead being further optionally capable of cooperating with the or each cavity.

12. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that this assembly comprises permanent fixing means, making it possible to fix the first and the second transfer and connection member respectively on a first and a second cell with a controlled atmosphere, these permanent fixing means comprising in particular adhesive fixing means, these adhesive fixing means advantageously comprising two strips, mounted on each joint, these two strips being able to be glued on either side of a wall of said controlled atmosphere cell.

13. Controlled atmosphere installation comprising a first controlled atmosphere cell (200; 500; 800), at least a second a second controlled atmosphere cell (210; 510; 810), as well as at least one connection and connection assembly. transfer according to any one of the preceding claims, the first transfer and connection member (10; 310; 610) being fixed, in particular permanently, on a wall of said first cell, while the second transfer and connection member connection (11; 311; 611) is fixed, in particular permanently, on a wall of said second cell.

14. Installation according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the seals belonging to each connection and transfer member define an open contour, extending one (20,60) next to the other (40,80 ).

15. Installation according to claim 13, characterized in that the seals belonging to each connection and transfer member (310,311; 610,611) define a closed contour, each of said members comprising an inner peripheral seal (340,380; 640,680) and a peripheral seal exterior (320,360; 620,660).

16. Installation according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, for each connection and transfer assembly, the two connection and transfer members define an insert (506, 516) of each respective cell (500,510).

17. Installation according to the preceding claim, characterized in that this installation comprises a plurality of cells (500 - 590), each pair of facing cells being provided with a first and a second connection and transfer members, which are suitable in mutually cooperating, the so-called end cells, among said plurality of cells, comprising in particular a single transfer connection member, while each of the so-called intermediate cells comprises in particular two connection and transfer members, provided on separate walls of each intermediate cell.

18. Installation according to claim 15, characterized in that a first connection and transfer assembly delimits an insert of a first cell, called main (800), while the second cell, called reserve (810), is received in the interior volume of said first cell.

19. A method of implementing an installation according to one of claims 13 to 17, wherein, from a so-called disconnected configuration between two adjacent cells (200,210 - 500,510), configuration in which the connection members and transfer of these adjacent cells are mutually distant, - these connection and transfer members are brought together so that they adopt a closed connected position, in which they mutually cooperate without however allowing a transfer between the interior volumes of these cells

20. A method of implementing an installation according to claim 18, wherein, from a so-called disconnected configuration between the main cell (800) and the reserve cell (810), configuration in which the control members. connection and transfer of these adjacent cells are mutually distant,

- a confined auxiliary cell (910) is formed, - this confined auxiliary cell is evacuated at a distance from the main cell.