WO2015032905A1

WO2015032905A1 - Method for preventing leakage from a container and a container having leakage safeguard

Info

Publication number: WO2015032905A1
Application number: PCT/EP2014/068958
Authority: WO
Inventors: Holger König; Ole KÖNIG
Original assignee: Holger König
Priority date: 2013-09-05
Filing date: 2014-09-05
Publication date: 2015-03-12

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for preventing leakage of a hazardous or ignitable gas or gas mixture from a container (1) and to a container having a leakage safeguard, wherein the container comprises a closable door (17, 18), wherein the door can be opened by a single-stage or multi-stage opening mechanism (10) and the opening mechanism (10) comprises at least one first opening step and a second opening step, wherein the method comprises the following steps: carrying out the first opening step for opening the door, generating power to supply a sensor (9) by means of the first opening step, activating the sensor (9) for detecting the hazardous or ignitable gas or gas mixture by means of the first opening step, detecting the ignitable or hazardous gas or gas mixture by the sensor as soon as the latter is activated, blocking the second opening step, such that the door (17, 18) remains closed and an escape of the ignitable or hazardous gas or gas mixture from the container (1) is prevented. Triggering an alarm signal when the ignitable or hazardous gas or gas mixture has been detected by the sensor (9).

Description

A method for preventing leakage from a container and a container with

leakage assurance

The invention relates to a container which may be formed as a portable or stationary container, in particular as a storage container or

Transport container can be used. The container may also include any closable space. The container can with a

Refrigeration system to be used, which serves for cooling of goods that are stored and / or transported in the cooled state.

So far, these refrigeration systems were operated with refrigerants, which a

Potential for the environment, in particular as

co-responsible for the greenhouse effect. Such refrigerants are therefore increasingly replaced by environmentally friendly refrigerants, which have a lower risk potential for the environment.

Suitable environmentally friendly refrigerants may be hydrocarbons, in particular propane or propene, and also toxic refrigerants, such as ammonia (NH 3). Propane (C3H8) is an odorless and colorless gas that is flammable at ambient conditions. Propene (C3H6) or propylene is a volatile, sweet-smelling gas at room temperature. Both

Hydrocarbons have high flammability and explosive power. Inhalation leads to narcotic effects and can have consequences such as suffocation, dizziness,

Headache, nausea, and / or coordination disorders occur when a person is exposed to a propane or propene-containing environment and the concentration excessively exceeds the MAK value (maximum workplace concentration).

For short-term exposure the MAK value for propane according to the safety data sheet of Air Liquide is 2000 ppm (ml / m ³ ) or 3600 mg / m ³ . The lower limit for the ignition limit for propane is 1, 7 to 1 .8 vol% or 0,038 kg / m ³ in air, the upper limit is 9,5 vol% or 0,172 kg / m ³ in air. The

Ignition temperature is at least 470 ° C. The MAK value for propene according to the safety data sheet of the company Borealis 1000 ppm (ml / m ³ ) or 1800 mg / m ³ . The lower value for the ignition limit for propene is 1 to 8 vol% or 0.047 kg / m ³ in air, the upper limit is 1 1 vol% or 0.173 kg / m ³ in air. The ignition temperature is at least 455 ° C.

In principle, the following aspects must be ensured when working with hydrocarbons. The system must be technically sealed against leakage and robust for the entire service life, depending on the application. The safety of the refrigeration system and its execution must be guaranteed according to national and international standards (EN 378 or ISO 5149). Furthermore, the protection of employees who install and maintain refrigeration equipment must be ensured.

The main hazards of handling hydrocarbon refrigerants are based on their storage in the refrigeration system, the operation of the refrigeration system and the filling of the refrigerant and especially by unwanted and unrecognized leaks during operation or standstill.

Due to a leak in the refrigerant circuit, the refrigerant in a

enclosed space, such as a container accumulate. The combustible refrigerant, such as propane or propene, can ignite explosively when an ignition source is in the container or is placed in the container.

The following safety aspects should be ensured in accordance with EN 378 for a refrigeration system operated with flammable refrigerant. A detection of the refrigerant, for example by a sensor should be carried out in the event of leakage. The refrigerant may be removed from the room or container via ventilation or opening in case of leakage. The refrigeration system or the room or container should be provided with an alarm, which can be done preferably both visually and acoustically. In addition, the refrigeration system should be provided with optical signals, for example signaling plates with the inscription "explosive" or a corresponding drawing.The refrigeration system can, depending on the capacity with the appropriate protective equipment such as fire extinguishers, gloves or

Safety glasses be equipped. From DE10201 1 1 16863 is known in a device for a

thermodynamic cycle in which, in the event of leakage in the device, an adsorbent may be contacted with the process fluid and an environmentally hazardous, toxic or flammable substance may be selectively bound by the adsorbent. The process fluid contains hydrocarbons, in particular propane or propene, which react with a selectively acting

Adsorbent be separated from the process fluid. Such adsorbents include, for example, zeolites or zeolitic materials, such as

(Metal) aluminum phosphates, zeolite imidazole networks, organometallic

Network connections, mesoporous alumino or silicon compounds, in particular silica gels, activated carbon. These adsorbents are used for

Enlargement of the surface or mechanical stabilization applied to a Oberflächenvergrössernden support structure, for example on a porous support structure.

From JP 2000-105034 A it is known to provide a sensor in a storage room, which can detect a flammable refrigerant, which has come through a leak in the storage room. When the flammable refrigerant is present in the storage room, a door to the storage room is forcibly opened or adsorbed or absorbed as described in DE10201171 16863. An inert gas is supplied to the storage room, which can absorb or adsorb the flammable refrigerant. On the one hand, this method requires the presence of a power source and, on the other hand, a continuous flow of inert gas from an inert gas source or from the environment takes place through the door opening. If a source of ignition happens to be in the immediate vicinity of the door when it is opened, the high concentration of the flammable refrigerant can cause an explosion. Even in containers that contain no refrigeration system, flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixtures can arise, for example, such gases or gas mixtures can be caused by the stored in the container. Also known is the introduction of disinfectants to protect the cargo, for example methyl bromide (bromomethane) which as a contact and respiratory poison can damage the central nervous system. Methyl bromide continues to significantly increase the greenhouse effect and is also very damaging to the ozone layer.

Disinfectants are used to fumigate containers in order to prevent animal pests from entering and / or developing themselves in the transport or storage goods and / or with the transport or stored goods

be carried off. During the period of transport or storage, this can escape from a fumigated with disinfectant transport or storage goods and accumulate in the closed container. Therefore, it must be ensured before opening the container that the concentration

Disinfectant has not reached an inadmissible height. Inert gases or a reduced concentration of oxygen in the container or an increased concentration of CO2 can also be sources of danger. Since these gases are invisible, odorless and tasteless, they remain unnoticed when opening the container, so that an acute health hazard or danger of suffocation threatens.

From EP0686744 A2 a solution is known, according to which for the detection of a dangerous gas, a sensor is mounted in a transport container, which monitors the composition of the atmosphere, in particular their oxygen content. If the oxygen level drops to too low a level, the door of the transport container is locked. This solution requires a constant

Power supply, so that the sensor can make its measurements and if necessary, the locking of the door is caused. This solution is therefore not suitable for containers that are not connected to a power supply.

The present invention has for its object to provide a method for detecting a leak in a container and to protect against explosions or the

Escape from hazardous gases or gas mixtures. Another object of the invention is to develop a device for protection against explosions of flammable gases or gas mixtures in containers or to develop protection against the escape of hazardous gases or gas mixtures.

The object is achieved by a method according to claim 1. Further advantageous embodiments are subject of the dependent claims 2 to 15. A method of preventing the leakage of a hazardous or flammable gas or gas mixture from a container comprises the following steps. The container includes a lockable door, wherein the door can be opened by a single or multi-stage opening mechanism and the

Opening mechanism comprises at least a first opening step and a second opening step: The method comprises the following steps:

Performing the first opening step for opening the door, generating current by means of an opening element for supplying a detection unit,

For example, a sensor by the first opening step, activating the sensor for detecting the dangerous or flammable gas or

Gas mixture through the first opening step, detecting the flammable gas or gas mixture by the sensor, once activated, blocking the second opening step, so that the door remains closed and leakage of the flammable gas or gas mixture from the container is prevented and

Triggering an alarm signal when an ignitable or hazardous gas or gas mixture has been detected by the sensor. The alarm signal can be processed in an electronic signal processing, but also in addition or alone in an externally perceptible, such as visible or audible signal to be converted. The externally perceptible signal can

For example, indicate a blockage by marking that signals a danger or a closed state. The marking may in particular have a color coding, which indicates a possible danger situation. A container suitable for carrying out the method can be understood as meaning both a mobile container and a stationary container which can be used, in particular, as a storage container or transport container for transport and / or storage purposes. A mobile storage container comprises a storage container which can be transported by means of transport, for example by truck, rail, ship or aircraft. A storage container for storage is a container which is stored stationary between its various locations or even for loading and unloading. The container may be equipped with a refrigeration system, which serves to cool goods that are stored and / or transported in the cooled state. The container may also be empty and the refrigeration system is not in operation, thus also have no power connection.

In particular, the first opening step may be to actuate a first

Opening element and the second opening step comprise actuating a second opening element. The first opening step may be a first

Include partial movement and a second partial movement, which at the same

Opening element is executed. The container may in particular be cooled. For example, the container may be connected to a refrigeration system or be part of a refrigeration system. The

Refrigeration system may be integrated into the container or temporarily connected to the container. Alternatively or additionally, the container may be provided with an insulating layer.

In particular, the flammable or hazardous gas or gas mixture may comprise a refrigerant, which refrigerant may be combustible or toxic, in particular flammable fluorinated refrigerants R1234yf, R32 or

Refrigerant mixtures or a hydrocarbon, such as propane or propene or ammonia (NH3) or CO2 contains.

A suitable sensor placed in a suitable location measures the

Concentration of the flammable gas or gas mixture, furthermore, the sensor must provide a comparatively quickly exploitable signal to achieve the shortest possible time to the next opening step. This can be realized either with a sensor with its own basic supply by means of battery to minimize lead time until the measurement signal arrives or by using only the generated power for basic supply and measurement. In this case, the sensor may also be part of an already existing safety device, which is activated upon actuation of the opening element and used for the measurement.

For example, this sensor can be designed as an explosimeter. In an explosimeter, a controlled ignition of the air mixture is carried out by the process of catalytic heat treatment, as for example in DE102012 002 456 A1 or EP 0 094 863 A1. The ignition temperature is approx. 500 ° C. If a catalytic reaction occurs, a usable signal is generated in 10-60 seconds via a Wheatstone bridge, depending on the design. A supply of 5 watts, for example, is already sufficient for this

Sensor type to operate. It is possible to measure smallest concentrations below the lower explosive limit, so that usually an alarm can be triggered within a range of 10% to 50% of the lower explosive limit. The alarm may include an optical and / or acoustic signal.

It is therefore possible to use another measuring method,

Infrared sensors. Infrared sensors send a beam through a chamber in which the sensor is located. The beam is reflected on a heated mirror and impinges on the sensor. Hydrocarbons affect the

Intensity of the beam so that from the change in intensity that the beam experiences along the way until it reaches the sensor again, the concentration of hydrocarbons in the chamber can be deduced. The change in intensity is thus proportional to the concentration that can be measured in this way. However, dust particles, steam or smoke lead to it

Cross-sensitivities, that is, it can lead to a falsification of the measurement. In contrast to sensors after catalytic catalytic heat generation, IR sensors require a longer time to readiness for operation, 60 seconds is the minimum running time until the signal is used.

The sensor is opened by the first opening step, for example by the

Actuating the first opening element is activated, in particular

the sensor and optionally a control unit supplied by the kinetic energy of the opening element electrical energy. Optionally, an alarm signal generator can be supplied with power. According to one embodiment, the first opening element is a hand-operated lever, which is set to open the door in motion, for example in a rotary movement or a

Translation movement is offset. The first opening element is at a

Power generator, for example coupled to a generator, which by the

Motion generates electricity. Such a power generator may be formed, for example, as a dynamo or coil. The current generated within the short period of the motion sets the sensor and the signal processing in Betheb and the sensor takes after a certain waiting time to the readiness of the sensor, a measurement of the concentration or

Composition of the gas currently in the container or

Gas mixture before. If the sensor detects a flammable or hazardous gas or gas mixture, an alarm is triggered and the door is locked or locked. The current generated by the movement of the generator must be sufficient for the measurement, the alarm and the lock, or to prevent the further opening of the door. The generated current can also be used to, for example, an existing, before the operation of the

Opening element to operate electroless control and to operate an existing or suitable safety chain with integrated sensor. For example, the door can be locked by a bolt that fixes the position of the door leaf and frame when closed.

If the sensor has detected an ignitable gas or gas mixture, the ignitable gas or gas mixture can automatically or manually by means of a

Suction or a conveyor unit, such as a fan to be removed from the container. For this purpose, the suction device or conveyor unit is connected to an external power supply, so that the suction device or conveyor unit can start their operation.

According to a further embodiment, the ignitable gas or

Gas mixture in the container, a reagent can be added, which changes the ignitable gas or gas mixture such that the ignitability is reduced so that ignition can not take place when an ignition source comes into contact with the gas or gas mixture. In particular, the

Concentration of the gas or gas mixture can be reduced to a value which is below 10% below the ignition limit, preferably below 50% of the ignition limit.

A container according to the present invention includes a lockable door. The door can be opened by a multi-stage opening mechanism. The multi-stage opening mechanism comprises at least a first opening step and a second opening step. In particular, the first opening step, the operation of a first opening member and the second opening step

Include actuation of a second opening element. Here, the Öffnungssch ritte be particularly divided into one or more levers. In the container, a sensor is arranged, wherein a leakage of an ignitable or dangerous gas or gas mixture is detectable by the sensor. The sensor has a power supply element which is connected to a power generator, which can be actuated by the first opening step, so that the sensor on actuation of the opening mechanism on the

Energy supply element can be supplied with energy such that detection of the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture can take place. If the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture is detected in the container, a signal is emitted by the sensor, which can be fed to a control unit. From the control unit, a control signal is emitted, so that the

Opening mechanism is locked in the closed position, for example by a closing element is activated, by which an opening of the door is prevented.

In particular, an alarm signal can be generated by the control unit if the concentration of the ignitable gas or gas mixture has exceeded a predetermined minimum value. This minimum value can be at most 90% of the lower ignition limit, in particular, the minimum value can be at a maximum of 75% of the lower ignition limit.

In one embodiment, the sensor is powered by the generator when the opening mechanism undergoes the first opening step. The sensor and thus the measurement is thus independent of an external one

Power supply. The measurement can thus according to the invention also take place when no additional power supply is present, because the power generator generates the necessary for the operation of the sensor current when opening itself.

The power supply element may include a supply line connecting the power generator to the sensor. The power generated by the generator is supplied to the sensor through the supply line.

In particular, the power generator can be activated when the first opening element is actuated. In the operating state, that means when carrying out the first Opening step, the generator supplies the sensor, the control unit and possibly the alarm signal generator via the supply line with electricity.

Instead of a single sensor, a plurality of sensors in the

Be provided container, if it is expected that the concentration of the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture is inhomogeneous, that is, in the container is a concentration distribution. The flammable or hazardous gas or gas mixture may contain components which have a higher specific gravity than the air in the container and therefore in

accumulate near-ground areas of the container. Furthermore, the

Concentration of the flammable gas or gas mixture with increasing

Remove the distance from the leak. Therefore, a plurality of sensors may be arranged at different heights and / or at different distances from the expected leak.

Additionally or alternatively, a further or combined sensor may be provided which detects a toxic component of a gas or gas mixture, such as methyl bromide. Toxic components can

For example, be emitted by the stored in the container Good. The method can likewise be used for the prevention of leakage of toxic components of a gas or gas mixture.

In particular, the sensor can measure the concentration of the toxic component in the gas or gas mixture. If the concentration of the toxic component is at or above a permissible limit, an alarm signal is emitted. The toxic or component-containing gas or gas mixture can by means of a

Extractor be removed from the container or, for example, the door are opened, taking into account the necessary safety precautions that no longer endanger the person. By opening the door, the dangerous gas can escape into the environment. The toxic component containing gas or gas mixture may be added in the container, a reagent which changes the toxic component in the gas or gas mixture such that the toxic component is converted so that poisoning can no longer occur when a person in contact with the Gas or Gas mixture comes. In particular, a neutralization of the gas or gas mixture take place, so that risks to persons and the environment are eliminated.

The container may in particular be designed as a cooled container, that is to say contain a refrigeration system or be connected to a refrigeration system. According to one embodiment, the container may be formed as a mobile container.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be explained with reference to the drawings. Show:

1 shows an arrangement of a container according to a first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2 shows a flow chart for the method for securing the leakage of a container. FIG. 3a shows a first variant for an opening mechanism in state A. FIG

3a shows the variant of the opening mechanism according to FIG. 3a in the state B FIG. 3c shows the variant of the opening mechanism according to FIG. 3a in the state C. FIG. 4a shows a second variant for an opening mechanism in the state A. FIG

4b shows the variant I of the opening mechanism according to FIG. 4a in the state B FIG. 4c shows the variant of the opening mechanism according to FIG. 4a in the state C. FIG. 5 shows an arrangement of a container according to a second exemplary embodiment

The container 1 shown in Fig. 1 may be formed as a portable or stationary container, in particular as a storage container or

Transport container can be used. The container may also include any closable space. The container according to FIG. 1 contains a

Refrigerant circuit 3 for cooling the interior 2. The refrigerant circuit 3 includes an evaporator 4, a condenser 5, a compressor 6 and a

Throttling element 7. The evaporator 4 is arranged in the interior of the container. The evaporator contains a schematically indicated tube coil for a

Refrigerant, which passes in the evaporator 4 from the liquid to the vapor state. The necessary for this transition heat energy deprives the

Evaporator 4 located in the interior 2 of the container 1 gas or

Gas mixture, or air. For this purpose, the evaporator 4 is provided with structures which serve to increase the heat exchange surface. Such structures are known per se and therefore not shown in detail in the drawing. The evaporated Refrigerant is supplied to a compressor 6 and compressed in gaseous form. In the downstream condenser 5, it is cooled and liquefied as a result of

Cooling. The condenser 5 usually works with ambient air as

Coolant, but can also be cooled by liquid coolant such as water. The condenser 5 contains schematically illustrated cooling fins to improve the cooling effect by increasing the heat exchange surface. The liquefied refrigerant leaves the condenser 5 and passes through the throttle element 7 back into the interior 2 of the container first The refrigerant is therefore in one

closed circuit. By means of a schematically illustrated leak 8, refrigerant can reach the interior 2 of the container 1. There it accumulates and can reach a concentration that corresponds to the concentration of an ignitable gas or gas mixture. As long as the container 1 remains in the closed state, there is little risk that the ignitable gas or

Gas mixture comes into contact with an ignition source. However, as soon as the doors 17, 18 of the container 1 are opened, the ignitable gas or gas mixture may come into contact with a source of ignition and cause a fire or an explosion. If the gas is classified as dangerous, that is

For example, containing toxic components, it is intended to prevent a person coming into contact with the dangerous gas.

Therefore, before opening the doors 17, 18 checks whether there is a dangerous or ignitable gas or gas mixture in the interior 2 of the container 1. To open the doors 17, 18, an opening mechanism 10 is actuated. Of the

Opening mechanism 10 is formed as a multi-stage opening mechanism. The doors 17, 18 are opened only when the multi-stage opening mechanism 10 has passed through at least a first opening step and a second opening step. The first opening step may consist, for example, in the actuation of a lever element. In Fig. 3a to 3c, the operation of such an opening mechanism is shown by way of example.

In the container 1, a sensor 9 is arranged, which determines the concentration of

flammable gas or gas mixture measures. This sensor 9 can in this case only be activated when the first opening step takes place. The sensor 9 can also be operated with a minimum supply and the measurement by the Opening element can be initiated. Through the first opening step, energy is transmitted via a power supply element 21 to a generator 15 which generates the current to activate the sensor. An ignitable gas or gas mixture emerging from the leak 8 can be detected by the sensor when the sensor is switched on and a corresponding concentration measurement

can make. As soon as the generator 15 provides the required current, the sensor 9 is turned on. The sensor 9 is connected to the generator 15 via the energy supply element 21 in such a way that, when the first opening step is carried out, it is supplied with energy in such a way that detection of the ignitable gas or gas mixture can take place. The sensor generates the measurement signal and supplies the measurement signal to a comparison unit 60 (see FIG. 2), in which a comparison of the measurement signal with the stored limit values takes place. The

Comparative unit may be part of the control unit 16. If the hazardous or flammable gas or gas mixture is detected in the container, a signal is emitted by the sensor or its comparison unit, which is characteristic of the potential danger situation. This signal can trigger an alarm signal 20, which in particular triggers an optical and / or audible alarm. Furthermore, a signal is transmitted to the opening mechanism, which prevents execution of the second opening step. Of the

Opening mechanism is held in the closed position until the potential danger situation is defused.

To correct the danger situation, the alarm signal indicates that a ventilation process is to be carried out manually or automatically. For this purpose, for example, a protected by further safety devices, supervised and

safe opening can be made or an external power supply can be used. Referring to Fig. 1, a conveyor, e.g. a fan 30 is put into operation and the shut-off 41 an air supply device opened. The conveying device, preferably a fan, conveys the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture through the opening 40, it passes fresh air into the interior 2 of the container 1. The units 40, 41, 30 can also be combined in one component.

In addition, the control unit 16 may receive the signal of the sensor for blocking the opening mechanism. Via the control unit 16, a blocking or closing element are controlled so that an opening of the door is not possible, as long as the closing element keeps the door locked.

FIG. 2 is a flow chart of the process for preventing the leakage of an ignitable or toxic component-containing gas or gas mixture from a container, as exemplified in FIG. 1. 3a to 3c show three possible states of the multi-stage opening mechanism 10, which can assume 3 states in the present embodiment. These states are referred to below by the letters A, B, C. A is the

Initial state in which the container 1 is closed. B shows the state after performing the first opening step. C shows the state in which the container is opened or can be opened. Fig. 3a is a

Embodiment for an opening mechanism in the initial state A. Fig. 3b shows the opening mechanism of Fig. 3a after the first opening step. Fig. 3c shows the opening mechanism of Fig. 3a after the second

Opening step.

Between the first and second opening step may also another

Opening mechanism, such as a second opening lever, are opened priority to ensure the reaction time of sensors. For example, a second opening lever with the task of the second or following

Opening step can be used.

When the door is to be opened by a multi-stage opening mechanism, the first opening step for opening the door is performed in which the opening mechanism is transferred from the state A to the state B. During the transition from state A to state B or immediately after reaching state B, the activation 50 of the sensor 9 for the detection of a dangerous or ignitable gas or gas mixture is carried out by measuring the concentration of the dangerous or ignitable gas or gas mixture. The sensor 9 performs the measurement and transmits the result of the measurement, that is, the output signal to a comparison unit 60. In the comparison unit 60 is checked whether the signal corresponds to a concentration of the dangerous or flammable gas or gas mixture, the z. B. in the case of an ignitable mixture is close enough to the ignition point of the gas or gas mixture to a

Represent danger source. If it emerges from the comparison that the Concentration is above the limit, the opening mechanism in the state B is blocked. It is also possible and depending on the size of the door opening makes sense to perform a separation of functions, that is, several opening lever take over the tasks described above. This procedure can be advantageous in the case of lack of space or in the case of very large door openings. The opening mechanism can be triggered, for example, by a spring element that can be triggered

Locking element to be blocked. Such a locking element may for example be designed as a bolt which blocks the door in the closed position. If the spring element is biased, the lock can be done with low energy consumption, so that the current generated by the generator is sufficient to lock the locking element in the

locked state to convict. Furthermore, an alarm signal 20 is triggered. To eliminate the danger potential, the conveyor unit 30 can be turned on, and the shut-off 41 are opened to allow a supply of fresh air into the interior 2 of the container. As long as the conveyor unit is in operation, the sensor is periodically or continuously a measurement of the

Concentration made. For this purpose, the sensor is integrated into the system when connected to an external power supply.

As long as a concentration is measured which is above the limit value, the opening mechanism is kept in state B and the delivery unit remains

switched on. If the comparison carried out in the comparison unit 60 shows that the concentration has fallen below the limit value, the second opening step takes place. The opening mechanism is transferred from state B to state C. It is then checked whether further operation of the delivery unit 30 and a further air supply is required and, if appropriate, the delivery unit 30 is switched off and the shut-off element 41 is closed. The door 17, 18 can now be opened and enter the interior of the container safely.

Fig. 3a shows an embodiment of an opening mechanism 10 in a state A. The state A is the state in which the opening mechanism is closed, that is, the interior of the container 1 is closed from the environment. The opening mechanism is formed by a displacement element 1 1, which is held in a first holding device 13 of the door 18 and in a second holding device 14 of the door 17. The sliding element 1 1 is with a Lever element 12 is connected, by means of which the displacement element can be moved in each of the marked by the letters A, B or C positions. In the positions A and B, the doors 17, 18 remain closed, only in the position C, the doors 17, 18 are opened.

Furthermore, a power generator 15 is provided, for example, a generator with coil, by means of which by the movement of the displacement element 1 1

For example, supported by an appropriate gear to generate as much power. The current can also be stored, for example, in an electrical device, for example in a battery or a capacitor to allow a longer power supply. The current is supplied via a control unit 16 to the sensor 9 by means of a power supply element 21. The power supply element 21 may include a connection line between the generator 15 and the sensor 9. If the displacement element 1 1 moves from the position A to the position B, which is shown in Fig. 3b, flows through the power supply element 21, a current from the generator 15 in the control unit 16 and the sensor 9. The sensor 9 is by the current put into operation and can make a measurement of the concentration of the gas or gas mixture in the interior 2 of the container 1. In the alternative, the sensor can also be supplied additionally by a battery charged by previous openings. The measurement is shown schematically by the wavy line 19, which is performed in the interior 2. The detected by the sensor

Measurement signal is supplied to the control unit 16. The control unit 16 may include a storage battery, an evaluation unit and the comparison unit 60. The measurement signal of the sensor is compared in the comparison unit 60 with one or more stored limit values, which are characteristic of a dangerous gas or gas mixture. If it is determined during the comparison that the limit value or one of the limit values has been reached or exceeded, the displacement element 11 remains in the position B shown in FIG. 2, it can even be blocked in the position B. Via the control unit 16, an alarm is triggered by the alarm signal generator 20 shown in Fig. 1 is actuated.

The container 1 can be connected to a power source and the

Feed unit 30 and the air supply device 40 are put into operation. Of the Sensor 9 can make continuous or periodic measurements by its existing or additional integration into the control of the system. As soon as it is determined when comparing the measurement signal with the limit value (s) that the limit value (s) are no longer reached, the displacement element 11 can be shifted into position C. An activated alarm signal can be deactivated. Fig. 3c shows the displacement element 1 1 in the position C. The right-hand end of the displacement element 1 1 in the illustration is from the

Holding device 13 extended so that the door 17 and the door 18 can be opened.

FIGS. 4 a to 4 c show three possible states of a second variant of the invention

multi-stage opening mechanism 10, which in the present

Embodiment 3 can assume states. These states will be

hereinafter denoted by the letters A, B, C. A is the initial state in which the container 1 is closed. B shows the state after performing the first opening step. C shows the state in which the container is opened or can be opened. Fig. 4a is an illustration of a

Opening mechanism in the initial state A. The door 17, 18 is shown in the left-hand part of Fig. 4a from the outside, the right-hand part shows a section along the cutting plane D-D. 4b shows the opening mechanism of FIG. 4a after the first opening step. Fig. 4c shows the opening mechanism of Fig. 4a after the second opening step.

The variant shown in Fig. 4a to 4c represents an opening mechanism which is actuated by a rotational movement. For this purpose, the

Opening mechanism instead of a sliding element on a rotary member 22. The rotary member 22 is a rod to which a lever member 12 is attached. The lever member 12 is aligned substantially vertically to the center axis of the rod. The rod is held in a first holding device 13 and in a second holding device 14. The holding device 14 is fixed to the door 17 and has a through hole through which the rod extends. The holding device 13 is attached to the door 18. That in the presentation

right-side end of the rod is held in the holding element 13. The

Retaining element has a channel-like opening which is adapted to receive the right-side end of the rod is used. The holding member 13 extends only to the height of the center axis of the right-side end of the rod. The right-hand end of the rod is received in this channel-like opening. The end of the rod has a recess which is directed in the sectional view DD upwards. In the left-hand representation of Fig. 4a, the right-hand end of the rod is not visible. The left-hand end of the rod is part of the power generator, for example a generator which generates as much power as possible via a transmission gear and can be equipped with means for converting the kinetic energy into electrical energy.

When the lever element is moved upwards by an angle of 90 °, the rod moves with. As a result, the generator 15 is actuated and the recess at the right-hand end of the rod is now the door 18 facing. Not shown is a bolt which can be used to block the opening mechanism in the position shown. The movement of the lever element causes the generator to generate electricity. The electricity is going through the

Power supply element 21 a control unit 16 and the sensor 9 fed. The sensor 9 is activated and makes a measurement of the gas or gas mixture present in the interior 2 of the container. According to the

schematic representation in Fig. 4b is a wavy line shown in the

Interior 2 is initiated, which for example in a measuring principle, which is based on optical effects, can be realized. Of course, any measuring principle can be used by means of which the concentration of the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture can detect with the required accuracy.

The signal generated by the sensor is fed into the control unit and compared in a comparison unit with the one or more predetermined limits. If the concentration is in the range of the limit value or above, a signal is transmitted to the alarm signal generator 20 via the control unit 16. The alarm signal generator sends a perceptible signal, so that the person holding the

Opening mechanism has been warned that there is a danger.

At the same time a locking element is actuated, which the

Opening mechanism blocked in the position shown in Fig. 4b. In Fig. 4c, the end position of the opening mechanism is shown, in which the door can be opened. The lever member 12 is directed upward in the illustration. As a result, the recess of the right-side end of the rod comes to lie down and the right-side end of the rod can on the

Surface of the holding device 13 are moved. The opening mechanism can only be moved to its end position when the source of danger has been eliminated. For this purpose, the control unit may send a signal to open the locking element when the sensor provides a measurement that provides a reading below the maximum allowable limit. The lever element can be moved in the direction of its end position, whereby by means of the generator 15, the necessary

Energy can be generated to activate the sensor and, if necessary, release the locking element.

The container 1 shown in Fig. 5 may be formed as a transportable or stationary container, in particular as a storage container or

Transport container can be used. The container may also include any closable space. The container may contain a protective atmosphere or the composition of the gas or gas mixture in the interior 2 may change due to the influence of the goods stored in the container. In this case, the gas or gas mixture enriches with hazardous or ignitable components and can reach a concentration corresponding to the concentration of an ignitable gas or gas mixture. As long as the container 1 remains in the closed state, there is little danger that the ignitable gas or gas mixture comes into contact with an ignition source or the dangerous gas or gas mixture enters the environment. However, as soon as the doors 17, 18 of the container 1 are opened, the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture may come into contact with an ignition source and cause a fire or an explosion or a danger to the

Represent the health of the persons who are in the area of the container. If the gas is classified as dangerous, ie toxic

Components is to prevent a person comes into contact with the dangerous gas. Therefore, before opening the doors 17, 18 checks whether there is a dangerous or ignitable gas or gas mixture in the interior 2 of the container 1. To open the doors 17, 18, an opening mechanism 10 is actuated. Of the

Opening mechanism 10 is formed as a multi-stage opening mechanism. The doors 17, 18 are opened only when the multi-stage opening mechanism 10 has passed through at least a first opening step and a second opening step. The first opening step may consist, for example, in the actuation of a lever element. Through the first opening step, the

Power supply for the sensor 9 is provided by the kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy. For this purpose, a power generator 15 is provided, which provides the current for the sensor and optionally the actuation of a locking element and for triggering a perceptible alarm signal by the alarm signal generator 20. The sensor is supplied with power via a power supply element 21 connected to the power generator 15.

Claims

claims

1 . A method of preventing the leakage of a dangerous or

flammable gas or gas mixture from a container (1), said container containing a closable door (17, 18), said door by a single or multi-stage opening mechanism (10) can be opened and the opening mechanism (10) at least a first opening step and a second opening step, the method comprising the steps of: performing the first opening step to open the door, generating power to make a measurement and supplying a sensor (9) with the first opening step, activating the sensor

(9) for the detection of the dangerous or flammable gas or

Gas mixture through the first opening step,

Detecting the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture by the sensor as soon as it is activated

Blocking the second opening step so that the door (17, 18) remains closed and leakage of the flammable or hazardous gas or gas mixture from the container (1) is prevented,

Triggering an alarm signal when the flammable or hazardous gas or gas mixture has been detected by the sensor (9).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the flammable or hazardous gas or gas mixture comprises a refrigerant, wherein the refrigerant may be combustible or toxic, in particular combustible fluorinated refrigerants R1234yf, R32 or refrigerant mixtures or a hydrocarbon, for example propane or propene or ammonia (NH3) or CO2.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor (9) measures the concentration of the flammable or dangerous gas.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (9) and a control unit (16) through the first opening step electrical energy is supplied, in particular a power generator (15) is put into operation.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the power generator in the operating state of the sensor (9) and the control unit (16) and / or optionally one

Alarm signal generator (20) powered.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ignitable or dangerous gas or gas mixture triggered by the measurement by a sensor by means of a suction device (30) or a conveyor unit is removed from the container.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the

ignitable or toxic component containing gas or

Gas mixture in the container (1) is added to a reactant which changes the ignitable or dangerous gas or gas mixture such that the ignitability is reduced so that ignition can no longer occur when an ignition source comes into contact with the gas or gas mixture or the dangerous, in particular toxic, component is converted in such a way that poisoning can no longer take place when a person comes in contact with the gas or gas mixture.

8. Method for generating electricity by means of a single-stage or multi-stage

Opening mechanism for performing a measurement for detecting an ignitable or dangerous gas or gas mixture in one

enclosed space at the moment of danger when opening the

enclosed space, in particular an interior of a container.

9. A container (1) comprising a lockable door (17, 18), wherein the door can be opened by a multi-stage opening mechanism (10) and the multi-stage opening mechanism (10) comprises at least a first opening step and a second opening step, wherein in the container (1) a sensor (9) is arranged, wherein a leakage of an ignitable or dangerous gas or gas mixture by the sensor (9) is detectable, characterized in that the sensor (9) a

Power supply element (21), so with the first

Opening step cooperates, that the sensor through the first Opening step can be supplied with energy such that a detection of the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture can take place and if in the container the flammable or dangerous gas or gas mixture is detected by the sensor (9) a signal is emitted, which a control unit (16) can be supplied, wherein the control unit, a control signal is emitted, so that the opening mechanism (10) can be blocked in the closed position.

10. A container according to claim 9, wherein from the control unit (16), a signal to an alarm signal generator (20) can be transmitted through the

Alarm signal generator (20) an alarm signal is generated when the

Concentration of the ignitable or dangerous gas or gas mixture has exceeded a predetermined limit, the alarm signal is particularly noticeable from the outside.

1 1. A container according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the sensor (9) and / or a control unit (16) and / or optionally an alarm signal generator (20) from the power generator (15) is powered when the

Opening mechanism (10) passes through the first opening step.

12. A container according to any one of claims 9 to 1 1, wherein the

Power supply element (21) comprises a supply line from the power generator (15) to the sensor (9) and the control unit (16).

13. A container according to claim 12, wherein the power generator (15) in

Operating state of the sensor (9) and the control unit (16) via the

Supply line supplied with electricity.

14. A container according to any one of claims 9 to 13, which contains a refrigeration system or is connected to a refrigeration system.

15. A container according to any one of claims 9 to 14, which is designed as a mobile container.