WO2016166440A1 - Equipment for supplying oxygen combining an oxygen concentrator with a self-contained gas liquefaction device - Google Patents

Equipment for supplying oxygen combining an oxygen concentrator with a self-contained gas liquefaction device Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016166440A1
WO2016166440A1 PCT/FR2016/050763 FR2016050763W WO2016166440A1 WO 2016166440 A1 WO2016166440 A1 WO 2016166440A1 FR 2016050763 W FR2016050763 W FR 2016050763W WO 2016166440 A1 WO2016166440 A1 WO 2016166440A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
oxygen
gas
cooling system
cryogenic cooling
pulsed
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/FR2016/050763
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
David Bednarski
Clement Lix
Cyrille PAUFIQUE
Philippe PANNETIER
Charles-Philippe THEVENIN
Sami AOUF
Original Assignee
L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude
Air Liquide European Homecare Operations Services
Air Liquide Sante (International)
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Filing date
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Application filed by L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude, Air Liquide European Homecare Operations Services, Air Liquide Sante (International) filed Critical L'air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude
Publication of WO2016166440A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016166440A1/en

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/0002—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures characterised by the fluid to be liquefied
    • F25J1/0012—Primary atmospheric gases, e.g. air
    • F25J1/0017—Oxygen
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D53/00—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols
    • B01D53/02—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols by adsorption, e.g. preparative gas chromatography
    • B01D53/04—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols by adsorption, e.g. preparative gas chromatography with stationary adsorbents
    • B01D53/047—Pressure swing adsorption
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D53/00—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols
    • B01D53/02—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols by adsorption, e.g. preparative gas chromatography
    • B01D53/04—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols by adsorption, e.g. preparative gas chromatography with stationary adsorbents
    • B01D53/047—Pressure swing adsorption
    • B01D53/0476—Vacuum pressure swing adsorption
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/02—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process
    • F25J1/0225—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process using other external refrigeration means not provided before, e.g. heat driven absorption chillers
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J1/00—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures
    • F25J1/02—Processes or apparatus for liquefying or solidifying gases or gaseous mixtures requiring the use of refrigeration, e.g. of helium or hydrogen ; Details and kind of the refrigeration system used; Integration with other units or processes; Controlling aspects of the process
    • F25J1/0243—Start-up or control of the process; Details of the apparatus used; Details of the refrigerant compression system used
    • F25J1/0257—Construction and layout of liquefaction equipments, e.g. valves, machines
    • F25J1/0275—Construction and layout of liquefaction equipments, e.g. valves, machines adapted for special use of the liquefaction unit, e.g. portable or transportable devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/10—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
    • A61M16/1005—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours with O2 features or with parameter measurement
    • A61M16/101—Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours with O2 features or with parameter measurement using an oxygen concentrator
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2202/00—Special media to be introduced, removed or treated
    • A61M2202/02—Gases
    • A61M2202/0208—Oxygen
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2202/00—Special media to be introduced, removed or treated
    • A61M2202/03—Gases in liquid phase, e.g. cryogenic liquids
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2253/00—Adsorbents used in seperation treatment of gases and vapours
    • B01D2253/10—Inorganic adsorbents
    • B01D2253/106—Silica or silicates
    • B01D2253/108—Zeolites
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2256/00—Main component in the product gas stream after treatment
    • B01D2256/12—Oxygen
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2257/00—Components to be removed
    • B01D2257/10—Single element gases other than halogens
    • B01D2257/102—Nitrogen
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2259/00—Type of treatment
    • B01D2259/45—Gas separation or purification devices adapted for specific applications
    • B01D2259/4533—Gas separation or purification devices adapted for specific applications for medical purposes
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
    • F25B9/00—Compression machines, plants or systems, in which the refrigerant is air or other gas of low boiling point
    • F25B9/02—Compression machines, plants or systems, in which the refrigerant is air or other gas of low boiling point using Joule-Thompson effect; using vortex effect
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25J—LIQUEFACTION, SOLIDIFICATION OR SEPARATION OF GASES OR GASEOUS OR LIQUEFIED GASEOUS MIXTURES BY PRESSURE AND COLD TREATMENT OR BY BRINGING THEM INTO THE SUPERCRITICAL STATE
    • F25J2270/00—Refrigeration techniques used
    • F25J2270/90—External refrigeration, e.g. conventional closed-loop mechanical refrigeration unit using Freon or NH3, unspecified external refrigeration
    • F25J2270/908—External refrigeration, e.g. conventional closed-loop mechanical refrigeration unit using Freon or NH3, unspecified external refrigeration by regenerative chillers, i.e. oscillating or dynamic systems, e.g. Stirling refrigerator, thermoelectric ("Peltier") or magnetic refrigeration
    • F25J2270/91—External refrigeration, e.g. conventional closed-loop mechanical refrigeration unit using Freon or NH3, unspecified external refrigeration by regenerative chillers, i.e. oscillating or dynamic systems, e.g. Stirling refrigerator, thermoelectric ("Peltier") or magnetic refrigeration using pulse tube refrigeration

Definitions

  • Oxygen supply installation associating an oxygen concentrator
  • the invention relates to a medical device for oxygen distribution, namely an autonomous device for liquefying gas, in particular oxygen, designed to come fluidically connected at the outlet of a concentrator.
  • oxygen for use in home care of patients suffering from respiratory diseases or insufficiencies, as well as an oxygen supply facility comprising an oxygen concentrator coupled to such an autonomous gas liquefaction device, and a method associated gas liquefaction.
  • an oxygen concentrator allows continuous supply of oxygen to the patient but causes mobility problems to the patient outside of his home. Indeed, the size and weight of concentrators complicate their use out of home. In addition, in case of failure the supply of oxygen is no longer assured and the patient can no longer follow his treatment, which is not acceptable.
  • a concentrator is described in particular by WO-A-2014046297 and EP-A-2524715. In addition, they require the presence of a battery that increases the weight and limits its autonomy. In addition, some are also noisy.
  • the delivery of LOX in large capacity tank has the advantage of allowing the patient to move. Indeed, it can fill a small bottle of gas with LOX from the tank of LOX and then wander by inhaling oxygen provided by the small bottle.
  • the delivery of LOX tanks to patients generates complex and expensive logistics, in particular a weekly filling of the cryogenic tank of LOX by a technician, which is not practical.
  • the delivery also has drawbacks in terms of environmental footprint due to delivery by truck, logistics due to the management of the LOX tanks, and safety due to the handling of cryogenic liquid, risks of falling tank during transport ...
  • a home-use, in-situ LOX combi generator couples the technology of gas concentrators with that of gas liquefiers using a mixed refrigerant cycle to produce the cold necessary for the liquefaction of gaseous oxygen, typically a Joules-Thomson cycle with a mixture of gases as working fluid.
  • this solution is not ideal because it has been found in practice that this type of mixed generator has disadvantages in terms of size, reliability and noise level.
  • Such a mixed generator is in particular described by EP-A-990107, EP-A-1044714 and EP-A-1805451.
  • these mixed generators use secondary exchangers, in which the cooling fluid is not in contact with oxygen, which reduces the effectiveness of the assembly.
  • the cooling gases may be hydrocarbons which must never come into contact with oxygen for obvious reasons of safety, which can not be guaranteed in the context of use in the patient's home and again less during his strolls outside his home.
  • the problem that arises is therefore to allow the supply of gaseous oxygen to a patient at home without encountering or minimizing all or part of the aforementioned problems and disadvantages.
  • the invention thus relates to an autonomous gas liquefaction device, in particular a medical oxygen distribution device, comprising:
  • cryogenic cooling system designed to liquefy a stream of gaseous oxygen (content typically between 93% and 95%) and produce liquid oxygen (LOX), and
  • a main reservoir of liquid oxygen in fluid communication with the cryogenic cooling system and comprising an internal LOX storage volume and an inlet orifice, said main reservoir being arranged to collect via the inlet orifice and store at the within said internal volume, at least a portion of the LOX produced by the cryogenic cooling system,
  • cryogenic cooling system comprises a pulsed gas tube extending at least partially into the main liquid oxygen tank, said pulsed gas tube being adapted to liquefy the oxygen contained in the gaseous oxygen stream .
  • Oxygen gas stream an oxygen-rich gas typically containing a gaseous oxygen content of between 80 and 96% by volume, typically between 90 and 95% by volume, that is to say from oxygen essentially in gaseous form, which contains residual argon; and - LOX: oxygen in liquid form.
  • the oxygen content in the LOX is equal to that in the gaseous oxygen flow, that is typically> 90 vol.%, Since most of the Argon, or other impurities possibly present in the oxygen stream, is not removed during the liquefaction of oxygen gas in liquid oxygen.
  • the invention may include one or more of the following technical characteristics:
  • cryogenic cooling system is arranged at the inlet orifice of the main oxygen tank.
  • the pulsed gas tube extends through the inlet orifice of the main tank.
  • the pulsed gas tube has an elongated and cylindrical shape.
  • a spacing is provided between the peripheral surface of the pulsed gas tube and the surface of the wall of the main reservoir at the inlet orifice so as to allow gravity flow into the internal volume of the main reservoir, via the inlet port, liquid oxygen being formed in contact with the pulsed gas tube.
  • cryogenic cooling system furthermore comprises a gas compressor cooperating with the pulsed gas tube
  • the pulsed gas tube comprises a downstream end, ie a free end, located in the internal volume of the main reservoir, said downstream end carrying or being extended by a heat exchanger device, for example in the form of a tube and / or comprising fins; .
  • the compressor is controlled by a control device, preferably by an electronic controller.
  • This controller makes it possible to regulate the pulsed gas tube by assigning it either a thermal power setpoint to be delivered, for example 200 Wth and, in this case, the temperature of the gas is a consequence of the power delivered; a temperature set point, for example -180 ° C, and in this case, the power is adjusted to reach the target temperature.
  • the cryogenic cooling system, the main oxygen tank and the control device are included in a cowling, that is to say a shell or a rigid envelope, for example plastic material. This cowling protects them from external aggressions and allows insulation of the cryogenic parts.
  • the pulsed gas tube comprises a cryo-cooling zone having a temperature gradient of between 350 K and 40 K, preferably between 300 K and 90 K, the liquefaction of the oxygen operating in contact with the oxygen gas with said cryocooling zone.
  • the cryogenic cooling system further comprises a gas inlet line, that is to say a first gas passage, for bringing a gas flow in contact with the pulsed gas tube.
  • the cryogenic cooling system further comprises a gas outlet line, that is to say a second gas passage, for extracting gas stored in the main tank.
  • the secondary gas reservoir is a small gas cylinder having a capacity (water equivalent volume) of less than 2 liters.
  • the pulsed gas tube preferably operates according to a Stirling cycle or according to any other suitable thermodynamic cycle, in particular any cycle similar or analogous to the Stirling cycle.
  • the internal volume of the main tank has a capacity of less than 3 liters (water equivalent).
  • the assembly is thermally integrated by soldering, welding or flange mounting to ensure the perfect liquefaction of the gaseous oxygen flow.
  • the cryogenic cooling system comprises a pulsed gas tube cooling circuit comprising a water circuit, that is to say essentially a water pump, and water ducts which serves to evacuate the heat from the flow of water. oxygen, the water circuit being itself cooled by cold helium, typically liquid helium
  • the control device is electrically connected to the pulsed gas tube.
  • one or more damping and anti-vibratory devices are provided to attenuate the noise that may be generated during operation of the pulsed gas tube.
  • a ventilation system inside the cowling can also provide the presence of a ventilation system inside the cowling to prevent frost deposits on the cryogenic parts by condensation and freezing of the ambient water vapor.
  • a condensed water collection device on the main tank for example a drawer system or any other suitable system.
  • the invention further relates to a process for liquefying all or part of the oxygen produced by an oxygen concentrator, wherein:
  • a cryogenic cooling system is supplied with a flow of oxygen gas containing at least 90% by volume of oxygen from an oxygen concentrator
  • a cryogenic cooling system comprising a pulsed gas tube extending at least partially in the main liquid oxygen reservoir and comprising a cryo-cooling zone having a temperature gradient of between 350 K and 40 K, preferably between 300 K and 90 K, at least a portion of the oxygen contained in the gaseous oxygen stream liquefying upon contact with the cryo-cooling zone pulsed gas tube.
  • the method of the invention may comprise one or more of the following technical characteristics:
  • the flow of oxygen gas contains between 91 and 96% by volume of oxygen.
  • the flow of gaseous oxygen typically contains about 93% by volume of oxygen.
  • metal cations in particular calcium (Ca) and / or lithium (Li) cations, is used.
  • an X or LSX zeolite exchanged with Ca and / or Li cations is used, preferably at least 88% exchanged with Li cations.
  • each container containing at least one adsorbent bed.
  • two adsorption receptacles also called adsorbers, operating alternately, that is to say one of the adsorbers in the adsorption / production phase while the other is in the desorption phase, are preferably used. regeneration.
  • the bed of zeolitic absorbent is preceded by a bed of an adsorbent capable of removing all or part of the impurities C0 2 and / or H 2 O, for example activated alumina or silica gel.
  • the oxygen content of the LOX is equal to or almost equal to that in the gaseous oxygen flow; the remaining impurities being mainly argon.
  • the invention also relates to an oxygen supply installation comprising an oxygen concentrator fluidly coupled to a gas liquefaction device according to the invention, i.e. as described above.
  • an oxygen supply installation comprising an oxygen concentrator fluidly coupled to a gas liquefaction device according to the invention, i.e. as described above.
  • the oxygen supply installation according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following technical characteristics:
  • the oxygen concentrator is fluidly coupled to the gas liquefaction device by means of a gas duct, for example a flexible duct.
  • the gas liquefaction device is connected to the patient by a flexible duct supplying a respiratory interface, such as a respiratory mask or nasal cannulae.
  • a respiratory interface such as a respiratory mask or nasal cannulae.
  • a power supply device is provided for supplying energy to the liquefaction device, in particular via an electrical connection to a mains socket for example.
  • FIG. 1 schematizes an embodiment of a medical oxygen supply installation comprising an oxygen concentrator and a gas liquefaction device according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 details the gas liquefaction device of FIG. 1,
  • FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate the cryogenic cooling system of the gas liquefaction device of FIGS. 1 and 2
  • - Figures 5 to 9 show other possible embodiments of an oxygen supply installation comprising an oxygen concentrator and a gas liquefying device according to the invention.
  • Figure 1 schematizes a first embodiment of a medical oxygen supply facility 1, 30 comprising an oxygen concentrator 30 and a device 1 for liquefying gas according to the invention, produces oxygen (typically> 90% in flight) from ambient air (about 22% 0 2 ).
  • the oxygen thus produced feeds a patient 50 via a flexible conduit 32 and a respiratory interface 33, such as mask or respiratory cannula.
  • This oxygen supply installation 1, 30 is based on a coupling, here via a gas supply duct 31, from a conventional oxygen concentrator 30 to a gas liquefying device 1, also called a liquefier, producing gas. cold used to liquefy the oxygen produced by the concentrator 30.
  • the oxygen concentrator 30 is mobile and mounted on wheels 31.
  • the operation of the oxygen concentrator 30 is conventional. Any commercially available concentrator can be used.
  • an oxygen concentrator 30 is a fairly compact apparatus, for example having a footprint of the order 40 cm ⁇ 40 cm ⁇ 60 cm for the most common models, which makes it possible to produce oxygen having a purity between approximately 85 and 98% by volume, generally of the order of 93 to 95% by volume, from ambient air and directly to the patient.
  • an oxygen concentrator 30 implements an alternating pressure adsorption system, that is to say via PSA or VSA type cycles.
  • Such an oxygen concentrator generally comprises an air filter for removing dust or the like, a compressor, two adsorption vessels filled with adsorbent particles, typically zeolite, and a balancing buffer tank. pressure.
  • metal cations in particular calcium (Ca) and / or lithium (Li ).
  • the two adsorption vessels operate alternately, that is to say that one is in the production phase while the other is in the regeneration phase.
  • the operation of the oxygen concentrators is well known and will not be detailed further.
  • the flow of gaseous oxygen produced by the oxygen concentrator 30 feeds a cryogenic cooling system 20 for liquefying the oxygen contained in said gaseous oxygen stream and producing liquid oxygen or LOX.
  • a small compressor it is possible to arrange a small compressor to slightly increase the pressure of the oxygen flow delivered by the oxygen concentrator 30 before it enters the gas liquefying device 1 according to the invention.
  • the liquid oxygen or LOX thus produced is then recovered and stored in a main reservoir 10 of liquid oxygen which is in fluid communication with the cryogenic cooling system 20.
  • the oxygen content in the LOX is equal to or approximately equal to that in the oxygen gas stream.
  • the main reservoir 10 comprises an inlet orifice 12 fluidly communicating with an internal volume 11 allowing the storage of LOX, said internal volume 11 having a capacity of less than 5 liters, typically less than 3 liters (water equivalent).
  • the inlet orifice 12 is arranged in the wall of the main reservoir 10, preferably it is arranged through a neck 15 located in the upper part of the main reservoir 10.
  • the cryogenic cooling system 20 is of the pulsed gas tube type, that is to say it comprises a pulsed gas tube 21, of elongate cylindrical shape, passing through the orifice 12 and extending into the inner volume 11 of the main tank 10 of LOX, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4.
  • the pulsed gas tube 21 is designed to liquefy the oxygen contained in the flow of oxygen gas from the concentrator 30.
  • a pulsed gas tube called tubular tube in English, is a cryogenic device adapted to and designed to produce cryogenic temperatures ranging from 4 K to 120 K approximately.
  • a pulsed gas tube preferably operates in a cycle close to the Stirling cycle, that is to say in a closed cycle with a cryogenic fluid at a very low temperature, for example water cooled by helium gas, which is moved by means of a compressor generating variations in pressure and gas flow, so as to cool a refrigeration tube.
  • a cryogenic fluid at a very low temperature, for example water cooled by helium gas, which is moved by means of a compressor generating variations in pressure and gas flow, so as to cool a refrigeration tube.
  • the liquefaction system 20 extracts the calories from the oxygen gas by applying a heat exchange between the flow of oxygen from the concentrator 30 and the pulsed gas tube 21 itself cooled by a cold fluid , such as cooled water circulating in a cooling water circuit comprising water pipe and pump, pulsed by the compressor 22 which overcomes the pulsed gas tube 21, as visible in Figures 3 and 4.
  • a cold fluid such as cooled water circulating in a cooling water circuit comprising water pipe and pump
  • This cold zone or cryo-cooling zone 24 has a temperature gradient of between 350 K and 40 K, preferably between 300 K and 90 K, the liquefaction of the oxygen being effected by contact of the oxygen gas with said cryocooling zone 24, which is cooled by helium or the like whose circulation in an internal cooling circuit (not shown) is provided by the compressor 22.
  • the LOX thus produced will, for its part, flow by gravity into the internal volume 11 of the main tank 10 of LOX. To do this, it is intended to leave a spacing 13, that is to say a passage, between the outer surface of the pulsed tube 21 and the surface of the peripheral wall delimiting the inlet orifice 12 so as to allow a flow of the LOX in this spacing 13.
  • the oxygen thus liquefied is stored in the main storage tank 10 LOX for later use.
  • the gas liquefaction device 1 comprises one (or more) location (s) 17 at the level of which there is a filling port or connector 18 making it possible to placing and filling one or more secondary tank (s) 40, for example of the type small gas cylinder having a capacity of less than 1.5 L (water equivalent), preferably between 0, 5 and 1 L.
  • a portable secondary tank 40 allows the user 50 to walk easily, especially outside his home.
  • a portable secondary tank 40 When a portable secondary tank 40 is fluidly connected to the filling port 18, it can be filled with LOX from the LOX main storage 10 to which said filling port 18 is fluidly connected, for example via a gas duct.
  • a pressurizing vaporizer can be used to maintain the pressure in the main storage 10 which contains mainly LOX surmounted by a sky of oxygen gas.
  • the liquefaction device 1 preferably has an intermittent operation to allow the solid film consisting of water and C0 2 type impurities, forming on the cryo-cooling zone 24 to melt and not be too important. on the cryo-cooling zone 24.
  • a damping device 60 may be provided comprising vibratory isolation pads 61 carried by a support structure 62, such as a plate, which is fixed to the cryogenic cooling system 20, as illustrated in FIG. 3.
  • Vibration isolation pads 61 are preferably at least 3, for example 4 pads 61, allowing to damp the vibrations generated by the compressor 22.
  • the pads 61 come to bear on a plate integral with the frame or outer casing of the device.
  • Frost formation on the outer peripheral surfaces of the liquefaction system 20 is also avoided or minimized because the ambient air contains water vapor which can condense and freeze there.
  • a good ventilation of the liquefier compartment for example via a scan with a dry and hot exhaust gas, for example between about 20 and 30 ° C, and / or by implementing a small fan, either good insulation of outer peripheral surfaces with one or more thermally insulating materials compatible with oxygen, for example rockwool, or further possible collection of condensates on a hot surface to promote their evaporation.
  • Figures 5 to 9 provide embodiments for reducing or minimizing the space requirement of an oxygen supply facility 1, including the oxygen concentrator 30 and the gas liquefying device 1 according to the invention. .
  • Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment in which oxygen concentrator 30 and gas liquefying device 1 are connected to each other by a coupling belt 60 for simultaneously transporting the two devices and reducing their footprint. It will also be possible to pass the cannula 61 of concentrated oxygen within this coupling belt 60, which cannula 61 feeds a respirator 62 or the like.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment in which oxygen concentrator 30 and gas liquefying device 1 are superimposed on one another and thus kept superimposed by one or more holding elements 70 allowing a "clipping" of these devices with each other.
  • These holding elements 70 are for example plastic so have a certain elasticity allowing a slight deformation of their walls during the clipping operation. Thus, we can reduce the space occupied on the ground without having to transform the external design of the two devices.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates yet another embodiment in which the oxygen concentrator 30 is inserted into a cradle or basket 80 carried by one of the faces of the gas liquefying device 1.
  • This cradle or basket 80 constitutes a lateral storage, preferably of flexible material, which can accommodate the oxygen concentrator 30, as well as possibly other devices or instruments.
  • Figure 8 illustrates yet another embodiment in which the oxygen concentrator 30 and the gas liquefying device 1 have been designed to couple one to the other by means of suitable and complementary designs, so as to to form a one-piece assembly that can be moved on the ground with wheels 91 and a handle 90 to be manually entered by the user.
  • Such an arrangement also makes it possible to simplify the connection of the appliances and to favor a single gas supply.
  • FIG. 9 proposes a variant of FIG. 8, in which the oxygen concentrator 30 is attached to the gas liquefying device 1 by virtue of a coupling portion 92 forming a sliding sliding drawer.
  • the gas liquefying device 1 then comprises a reciprocal connection system configured to receive said coupling portion 92 forming a sliding lashing drawer.
  • the plant 1, 30 of the present invention is particularly well suited for home medical care.
  • a possible filling of a second portable LOX tank 40 such as a small bottle of gas allowing the patient to walk

Abstract

The invention relates to a gas liquefaction device (1) comprising a cryogenic cooling system (20) designed to liquefy oxygen contained in a gaseous oxygen stream and produce liquid oxygen (LOX), and a main liquid oxygen reservoir (10) in fluidic communication with the cryogenic cooling system (20) and comprising an internal LOX storage volume (11) and an inlet orifice (12), said main reservoir (10) being arranged to receive via the inlet orifice (12) and store within said internal volume (11), at least one portion of the LOX produced by the cryogenic cooling system (20). According to the invention, the cryogenic cooling system (20) comprises a pulsed gas tube (21) extending at least partially into the main liquid oxygen reservoir (10), said pulsed gas tube (21) being designed to liquefy the oxygen contained in the gaseous oxygen flow. Equipment for supplying oxygen to an individual comprising an oxygen concentrator (30) fluidically coupled to a gas liquefaction device (1) according to the invention.

Description

Installation de fourniture d'oxygène associant un concentrateur d'oxygène  Oxygen supply installation associating an oxygen concentrator
à un dispositif autonome de liquéfaction de gaz L'invention concerne un appareil médical de distribution d'oxygène, à savoir un dispositif autonome de liquéfaction de gaz, en particulier d'oxygène, conçu pour venir se raccorder fluidiquement en sortie d'un concentrateur d'oxygène utilisable pour des soins à domicile de patients souffrant de pathologies ou d'insuffisances respiratoires, ainsi qu'une installation de fourniture d'oxygène comprenant un concentrateur d'oxygène couplé à un tel dispositif autonome de liquéfaction de gaz, et à un procédé de liquéfaction de gaz associé.  The invention relates to a medical device for oxygen distribution, namely an autonomous device for liquefying gas, in particular oxygen, designed to come fluidically connected at the outlet of a concentrator. oxygen for use in home care of patients suffering from respiratory diseases or insufficiencies, as well as an oxygen supply facility comprising an oxygen concentrator coupled to such an autonomous gas liquefaction device, and a method associated gas liquefaction.
La fourniture d'oxygène à domicile représente une part importante de l'activité des soins à domicile de patients souffrant de pathologies ou d'insuffisances respiratoires.  The provision of home oxygen is an important part of the home care activity of patients suffering from pathologies or respiratory insufficiencies.
Actuellement, elle se fait par l'installation d'un concentrateur d'oxygène gazeux chez le patient qui produit de l'oxygène gazeux à partir d'air ambiant, par la livraison de réservoirs d'oxygène liquide (LOX) au domicile du patient, ou au moyen d'un générateur mixte combinant concentrateur et liquéfacteur d'oxygène.  Currently, it is done by installing a gaseous oxygen concentrator in the patient who produces oxygen gas from ambient air, by delivering liquid oxygen tanks (LOX) to the patient's home. , or by means of a mixed generator combining concentrator and oxygen liquefier.
Plus précisément, un concentrateur d'oxygène permet la fourniture d'oxygène en continu au patient mais posent des problèmes de mobilité au patient en dehors de chez lui. En effet, l'encombrement et le poids des concentrateurs compliquent leur utilisation hors domicile. De plus, en cas de panne la fourniture d'oxygène n'est plus assurée et le patient ne peut plus suivre son traitement, ce qui n'est pas acceptable. Un tel concentrateur est notamment décrit par WO-A-2014046297 et EP-A-2524715. Par ailleurs, ils nécessitent la présence d'une batterie qui en accroît le poids et limite son autonomie. En outre, certains sont également bruyants.  More specifically, an oxygen concentrator allows continuous supply of oxygen to the patient but causes mobility problems to the patient outside of his home. Indeed, the size and weight of concentrators complicate their use out of home. In addition, in case of failure the supply of oxygen is no longer assured and the patient can no longer follow his treatment, which is not acceptable. Such a concentrator is described in particular by WO-A-2014046297 and EP-A-2524715. In addition, they require the presence of a battery that increases the weight and limits its autonomy. In addition, some are also noisy.
Par ailleurs, la livraison de LOX en réservoir de grande capacité présente l'avantage de permettre au patient de se déplacer. En effet, celui-ci peut remplir une petite bouteille de gaz avec du LOX provenant du réservoir de LOX et ensuite déambuler en inhalant l'oxygène fourni par la petite bouteille. Toutefois, la livraison de réservoirs de LOX aux patients engendre une logistique complexe et coûteuse, en particulier un remplissage hebdomadaire du réservoir cryogénique de LOX par un technicien, ce qui n'est pas pratique. De plus, la livraison présente également des inconvénients en termes d'empreinte environnementale du fait d'une livraison par camion, de logistique du fait de la gestion des réservoirs de LOX, et de sécurité du fait de la manipulation de liquide cryogénique, de risques de chute de réservoir lors du transport... En outre, un générateur mixte de LOX in-situ, utilisable à domicile, couple la technologie des concentrateurs gazeux avec celle des liquéfacteurs de gaz utilisant un cycle de réfrigérant mixte pour produire le froid nécessaire à la liquéfaction de l'oxygène gazeux, typiquement un cycle Joules-Thomson avec un mélange de gaz comme fluide de travail. Toutefois, cette solution n'est pas idéale car il a été constaté en pratique que ce type de générateur mixte présente des inconvénients en termes d'encombrement, de fiabilité et de niveau sonore. Un tel générateur mixte est notamment décrit par EP-A-990107, EP-A- 1044714 et EP-A- 1805451. In addition, the delivery of LOX in large capacity tank has the advantage of allowing the patient to move. Indeed, it can fill a small bottle of gas with LOX from the tank of LOX and then wander by inhaling oxygen provided by the small bottle. However, the delivery of LOX tanks to patients generates complex and expensive logistics, in particular a weekly filling of the cryogenic tank of LOX by a technician, which is not practical. In addition, the delivery also has drawbacks in terms of environmental footprint due to delivery by truck, logistics due to the management of the LOX tanks, and safety due to the handling of cryogenic liquid, risks of falling tank during transport ... In addition, a home-use, in-situ LOX combi generator couples the technology of gas concentrators with that of gas liquefiers using a mixed refrigerant cycle to produce the cold necessary for the liquefaction of gaseous oxygen, typically a Joules-Thomson cycle with a mixture of gases as working fluid. However, this solution is not ideal because it has been found in practice that this type of mixed generator has disadvantages in terms of size, reliability and noise level. Such a mixed generator is in particular described by EP-A-990107, EP-A-1044714 and EP-A-1805451.
Enfin, ces générateurs mixtes utilisent des échangeurs secondaires, dans lesquels le fluide refroidissement n'est pas en contact avec l'oxygène, ce qui en diminue l'efficacité de l'ensemble. De plus, les gaz de refroidissement peuvent être des hydrocarbures qui ne doivent en aucun cas entrer en contact avec l'oxygène pour des raisons évidentes de sécurité, ce qui ne peut être garanti dans le cadre d'une utilisation au domicile du patient et encore moins lors de ses déambulations hors de chez lui.  Finally, these mixed generators use secondary exchangers, in which the cooling fluid is not in contact with oxygen, which reduces the effectiveness of the assembly. In addition, the cooling gases may be hydrocarbons which must never come into contact with oxygen for obvious reasons of safety, which can not be guaranteed in the context of use in the patient's home and again less during his strolls outside his home.
Le problème qui se pose est dès lors de permettre de fournir de l'oxygène gazeux à un patient à domicile sans rencontrer ou en minimisant tout ou partie des problèmes et inconvénients susmentionnés.  The problem that arises is therefore to allow the supply of gaseous oxygen to a patient at home without encountering or minimizing all or part of the aforementioned problems and disadvantages.
L'invention concerne alors un dispositif autonome de liquéfaction de gaz, en particulier un dispositif médical de distribution d'oxygène, comprenant :  The invention thus relates to an autonomous gas liquefaction device, in particular a medical oxygen distribution device, comprising:
- un système de refroidissement cryogénique conçu pour liquéfier un flux d'oxygène gazeux (teneur comprise typiquement entre 93% et 95%) et produire de l'oxygène liquide (LOX), et  a cryogenic cooling system designed to liquefy a stream of gaseous oxygen (content typically between 93% and 95%) and produce liquid oxygen (LOX), and
- un réservoir principal d'oxygène liquide en communication fiuidique avec le système de refroidissement cryogénique et comprenant un volume interne de stockage de LOX et un orifice d'entrée, ledit réservoir principal étant agencé pour recueillir via l'orifice d'entrée et stocker au sein dudit volume interne, au moins une partie du LOX produit par le système de refroidissement cryogénique,  a main reservoir of liquid oxygen in fluid communication with the cryogenic cooling system and comprising an internal LOX storage volume and an inlet orifice, said main reservoir being arranged to collect via the inlet orifice and store at the within said internal volume, at least a portion of the LOX produced by the cryogenic cooling system,
caractérisé en ce que le système de refroidissement cryogénique comprend un tube à gaz puisé s'étendant au moins partiellement dans le réservoir principal d'oxygène liquide, ledit tube à gaz puisé étant conçu pour liquéfier l'oxygène contenu dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux.  characterized in that the cryogenic cooling system comprises a pulsed gas tube extending at least partially into the main liquid oxygen tank, said pulsed gas tube being adapted to liquefy the oxygen contained in the gaseous oxygen stream .
Dans le cadre de la présente invention, on appelle :  In the context of the present invention, we call:
- « flux d'oxygène gazeux » : un gaz riche en oxygène contenant typiquement une teneur en oxygène gazeux comprise entre 80 et 96%> en volume, typiquement entre 90 et 95% en volume, c'est-à-dire de l'oxygène essentiellement sous forme gazeuse, lequel contient de l'argon résiduel; et - LOX : de l'oxygène sous forme liquide. "Oxygen gas stream": an oxygen-rich gas typically containing a gaseous oxygen content of between 80 and 96% by volume, typically between 90 and 95% by volume, that is to say from oxygen essentially in gaseous form, which contains residual argon; and - LOX: oxygen in liquid form.
Dans le cadre de la présente invention, la teneur en oxygène dans le LOX est égale à celle dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux, c'est-à-dire typiquement >90 vol.%, étant donné que la majeure partie de l'argon, voire d'autres impuretés éventuellement présentes dans le flux d'oxygène, n'est pas éliminée lors de la liquéfaction de l'oxygène gazeux en oxygène liquide.  In the context of the present invention, the oxygen content in the LOX is equal to that in the gaseous oxygen flow, that is typically> 90 vol.%, Since most of the Argon, or other impurities possibly present in the oxygen stream, is not removed during the liquefaction of oxygen gas in liquid oxygen.
Selon le cas, l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques techniques suivantes :  Depending on the case, the invention may include one or more of the following technical characteristics:
- le système de refroidissement cryogénique est agencé au niveau de l'orifice d'entrée du réservoir principal d'oxygène.  the cryogenic cooling system is arranged at the inlet orifice of the main oxygen tank.
- le tube à gaz puisé s'étend au travers de l'orifice d'entrée du réservoir principal.  the pulsed gas tube extends through the inlet orifice of the main tank.
- le tube à gaz puisé a une forme allongée et cylindrique.  the pulsed gas tube has an elongated and cylindrical shape.
- un espacement est aménagé entre la surface périphérique du tube à gaz puisé et la surface de la paroi du réservoir principal au niveau de l'orifice d'entrée de manière à permettre un écoulement par gravité dans le volume interne du réservoir principal, via l'orifice d'entrée, de l'oxygène liquide se formant au contact du tube à gaz puisé.  a spacing is provided between the peripheral surface of the pulsed gas tube and the surface of the wall of the main reservoir at the inlet orifice so as to allow gravity flow into the internal volume of the main reservoir, via the inlet port, liquid oxygen being formed in contact with the pulsed gas tube.
- le système de refroidissement cryogénique comprend en outre un compresseur de gaz coopérant avec le tube à gaz puisé  the cryogenic cooling system furthermore comprises a gas compressor cooperating with the pulsed gas tube
- le compresseur surmonte le tube à gaz puisé.  - the compressor overcomes the pulsed gas tube.
- le tube à gaz puisé comprend une extrémité aval, i.e. une extrémité libre, située dans le volume interne du réservoir principal, ladite extrémité aval portant ou étant prolongée par un dispositif échangeur thermique, par exemple en forme de tube et/ou comprenant des ailettes.  the pulsed gas tube comprises a downstream end, ie a free end, located in the internal volume of the main reservoir, said downstream end carrying or being extended by a heat exchanger device, for example in the form of a tube and / or comprising fins; .
- le compresseur est commandé par un dispositif de pilotage, de préférence par un contrôleur électronique. Ce contrôleur permet d'opérer une régulation du tube à gaz puisé en lui assignant soit une consigne de puissance thermique à délivrer, par exemple 200Wth et, dans ce cas, la température du gaz est une conséquence de la puissance délivrée ; soit une consigne de température, par exemple -180°C, et dans ce cas, la puissance est ajustée pour atteindre la température cible. Ces types de régulations sont classiques dans les domaines du contrôle de procédés et de l'automatisation.  the compressor is controlled by a control device, preferably by an electronic controller. This controller makes it possible to regulate the pulsed gas tube by assigning it either a thermal power setpoint to be delivered, for example 200 Wth and, in this case, the temperature of the gas is a consequence of the power delivered; a temperature set point, for example -180 ° C, and in this case, the power is adjusted to reach the target temperature. These types of regulations are conventional in the fields of process control and automation.
- le système de refroidissement cryogénique, le réservoir principal d'oxygène et le dispositif de pilotage sont compris dans un capotage, c'est-à-dire une coque ou une enveloppe rigide, par exemple en matériau plastique. Ce capotage les protège des agressions extérieures et permet une isolation des parties cryogéniques.  - The cryogenic cooling system, the main oxygen tank and the control device are included in a cowling, that is to say a shell or a rigid envelope, for example plastic material. This cowling protects them from external aggressions and allows insulation of the cryogenic parts.
- le tube à gaz puisé comprend une zone de cryo-refroidissement présentant un gradient de température compris entre 350 K et 40 K, de préférence entre 300 K et 90 K, la liquéfaction de l'oxygène s'opérant au contact de l'oxygène gazeux avec ladite zone de cryo- refroidissement. the pulsed gas tube comprises a cryo-cooling zone having a temperature gradient of between 350 K and 40 K, preferably between 300 K and 90 K, the liquefaction of the oxygen operating in contact with the oxygen gas with said cryocooling zone.
- le système de refroidissement cryogénique comprend en outre une ligne d'entrée de gaz, c'est-à-dire un premier passage de gaz, permettant d'amener un flux gazeux au contact du tube à gaz puisé.  - The cryogenic cooling system further comprises a gas inlet line, that is to say a first gas passage, for bringing a gas flow in contact with the pulsed gas tube.
- le système de refroidissement cryogénique comprend en outre une ligne de sortie de gaz, c'est-à-dire un second passage de gaz, permettant d'extraire du gaz stocké dans le réservoir principal.  - The cryogenic cooling system further comprises a gas outlet line, that is to say a second gas passage, for extracting gas stored in the main tank.
- il comprend en outre un port de remplissage permettant le raccordement audit port de remplissage d'un réservoir de gaz secondaire et le remplissage dudit réservoir de gaz secondaire avec du gaz issu du réservoir principal. De préférence, le réservoir de gaz secondaire est une petite bouteille de gaz ayant une capacité (volume en équivalent eau) inférieure à 2 litres.  - It further comprises a filling port for connecting to said filling port of a secondary gas tank and filling said secondary gas tank with gas from the main tank. Preferably, the secondary gas reservoir is a small gas cylinder having a capacity (water equivalent volume) of less than 2 liters.
- le tube à gaz puisé fonctionne préférentiellement selon un cycle de Stirling ou suivant tout autre cycle thermodynamique adapté, en particulier tout cycle similaire ou analogue au cycle Stirling.  the pulsed gas tube preferably operates according to a Stirling cycle or according to any other suitable thermodynamic cycle, in particular any cycle similar or analogous to the Stirling cycle.
- le volume interne du réservoir principal a une contenance inférieure à 3 litres (équivalent en eau).  - the internal volume of the main tank has a capacity of less than 3 liters (water equivalent).
- l'ensemble est intégré thermiquement par brasure, soudure ou montage sur bride afin d'assurer la parfaite liquéfaction du flux d'oxygène gazeux.  - The assembly is thermally integrated by soldering, welding or flange mounting to ensure the perfect liquefaction of the gaseous oxygen flow.
- le système de refroidissement cryogénique comprend un circuit de refroidissement du tube à gaz puisé comprenant un circuit d'eau, c'est-à-dire essentiellement une pompe à eau et des conduits d'eau qui sert à évacuer les calories du flux d'oxygène, le circuit d'eau étant lui- même refroidi par de l'hélium froid, typiquement de l'hélium liquide  the cryogenic cooling system comprises a pulsed gas tube cooling circuit comprising a water circuit, that is to say essentially a water pump, and water ducts which serves to evacuate the heat from the flow of water. oxygen, the water circuit being itself cooled by cold helium, typically liquid helium
- il est mobile et monté sur roues.  - It is mobile and mounted on wheels.
- il est transportable.  - it is transportable.
- il comprend une alimentation électrique reliée notamment au dispositif de pilotage. it comprises a power supply connected in particular to the control device.
- le dispositif de pilotage est relié électriquement au tube à gaz puisé. - The control device is electrically connected to the pulsed gas tube.
- un ou des dispositifs d'amortissement et anti- vibratoires sont prévus pour atténuer le bruit susceptible d'être généré pendant le fonctionnement du tube à gaz puisé.  one or more damping and anti-vibratory devices are provided to attenuate the noise that may be generated during operation of the pulsed gas tube.
- optionnellement, on peut également prévoir la présence d'un système de ventilation à l'intérieur du capotage permettant d'éviter les dépôts de givre sur les parties cryogéniques par condensation et gel de la vapeur d'eau ambiante. - optionnellement, on peut également prévoir un dispositif de collecte des eaux condensées sur le réservoir principal, par exemple un système à tiroir ou tout autre système adapté. - Optionally, it can also provide the presence of a ventilation system inside the cowling to prevent frost deposits on the cryogenic parts by condensation and freezing of the ambient water vapor. - Optionally, one can also provide a condensed water collection device on the main tank, for example a drawer system or any other suitable system.
L'invention concerne en outre un procédé de liquéfaction de tout ou partie de l'oxygène produit par un concentrateur d'oxygène, dans lequel :  The invention further relates to a process for liquefying all or part of the oxygen produced by an oxygen concentrator, wherein:
a) on alimente un système de refroidissement cryogénique avec un flux d'oxygène gazeux contenant au moins 90% en volume d'oxygène provenant d'un concentrateur d'oxygène,  a) a cryogenic cooling system is supplied with a flow of oxygen gas containing at least 90% by volume of oxygen from an oxygen concentrator,
b) on liquéfie au moins une partie de l'oxygène contenant dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux au moyen du système de refroidissement cryogénique de manière à produire du LOX, et  b) liquefying at least a portion of the oxygen containing in the gaseous oxygen stream by means of the cryogenic cooling system to produce LOX, and
c) on récupère et on stocke au sein d'un réservoir principal d'oxygène liquide, au moins une partie du LOX produit à l'étape b),  c) recovering and storing, within a main reservoir of liquid oxygen, at least a portion of the LOX produced in step b),
caractérisé en ce qu'à l'étape b), on met en œuvre un système de refroidissement cryogénique comprenant un tube à gaz puisé s'étendant au moins partiellement dans le réservoir principal d'oxygène liquide et comprenant une zone de cryo-refroidissement présentant un gradient de température compris entre 350 K et 40 K, de préférence entre 300 K et 90 K, au moins une partie de l'oxygène contenu dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux se liquéfiant en entrant en contact avec la zone de cryo-refroidissement du tube à gaz puisé.  characterized in that in step b), a cryogenic cooling system is implemented comprising a pulsed gas tube extending at least partially in the main liquid oxygen reservoir and comprising a cryo-cooling zone having a temperature gradient of between 350 K and 40 K, preferably between 300 K and 90 K, at least a portion of the oxygen contained in the gaseous oxygen stream liquefying upon contact with the cryo-cooling zone pulsed gas tube.
Selon le cas, le procédé de l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques techniques suivantes :  Depending on the case, the method of the invention may comprise one or more of the following technical characteristics:
- le flux d'oxygène gazeux contient entre 91 et 96 % en volume d'oxygène.  the flow of oxygen gas contains between 91 and 96% by volume of oxygen.
- le flux d'oxygène gazeux au moins 92 % en volume d'oxygène.  the flow of oxygen gas at least 92% by volume of oxygen.
- le flux d'oxygène gazeux au plus 95 % en volume d'oxygène  the flow of oxygen gas at most 95% by volume of oxygen
- le flux d'oxygène gazeux contient typiquement de l'ordre de 93% en volume d'oxygène.  the flow of gaseous oxygen typically contains about 93% by volume of oxygen.
- le flux d'oxygène gazeux produit par un concentrateur d'oxygène fonctionnant selon des cycles PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption = Adsorption à Pression Modulée) ou VSA (Vacuum Swing Adsorption= Adsorption à Vide Modulé).  the flow of gaseous oxygen produced by an oxygen concentrator operating according to PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) or VSA (Vacuum Swing Adsorption = Modulated Vacuum Adsorption) cycles.
- le flux d'oxygène gazeux produit par un concentrateur d'oxygène comprenant entre 1 et 4 récipients d'adsorption contenant chacun un ou plusieurs adsorbants.  - The flow of oxygen gas produced by an oxygen concentrator comprising between 1 and 4 adsorption containers each containing one or more adsorbents.
- on utilise un (ou des) adsorbant de type zéolite, en particulier une zéolite A, X ou LSX (Low Silica X = X pauvre en silice) échangée ou non échangée par un ou des cations métalliques. - on utilise une zéolite échangée par des cations métalliques, en particulier des cations calcium (Ca) et/ou lithium (Li). using a zeolite type adsorbent (s), in particular a zeolite A, X or LSX (low Silica X = X low in silica), exchanged or not exchanged with one or more metal cations. a zeolite exchanged with metal cations, in particular calcium (Ca) and / or lithium (Li) cations, is used.
- on utilise une zéolite X ou LSX échangée par des cations Ca et/ou Li, de préférence échangée à au moins 88% par des cations Li.  an X or LSX zeolite exchanged with Ca and / or Li cations is used, preferably at least 88% exchanged with Li cations.
- on met en œuvre préférentiellement 1 ou 2 récipients d'adsorption, chaque récipient contenant au moins un lit d'adsorbant.  - It implements preferably 1 or 2 adsorption containers, each container containing at least one adsorbent bed.
on met en œuvre préférentiellement 2 récipients d'adsorption, encore appelés adsorbeurs, fonctionnant de manière alternée, c'est-à-dire l'un des adsorbeurs en phase d'adsorption/production pendant que l'autre est en phase de désorption/régénération.  two adsorption receptacles, also called adsorbers, operating alternately, that is to say one of the adsorbers in the adsorption / production phase while the other is in the desorption phase, are preferably used. regeneration.
- on fait précéder le lit d'absorbant zéolitique par un lit d'un adsorbant apte à éliminer tout ou partie des impuretés C02 et/ou H20, par exemple de l'alumine activée ou du gel de silice. the bed of zeolitic absorbent is preceded by a bed of an adsorbent capable of removing all or part of the impurities C0 2 and / or H 2 O, for example activated alumina or silica gel.
- la teneur en oxygène du LOX est égale ou quasi-égale à celle dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux ; les impuretés restantes étant principalement de l'argon.  the oxygen content of the LOX is equal to or almost equal to that in the gaseous oxygen flow; the remaining impurities being mainly argon.
Par ailleurs, l'invention porte aussi sur une installation de fourniture d'oxygène comprenant un concentrateur d'oxygène couplé fluidiquement à un dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz selon l'invention, i.e. tel que décrit ci-avant. Une telle installation permet de produire du LOX destiné à des patients soignés à leur domicile.  Furthermore, the invention also relates to an oxygen supply installation comprising an oxygen concentrator fluidly coupled to a gas liquefaction device according to the invention, i.e. as described above. Such an installation makes it possible to produce LOX intended for patients treated at home.
Selon le cas, l'installation de fourniture d'oxygène selon l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques techniques suivantes :  Depending on the case, the oxygen supply installation according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following technical characteristics:
- le concentrateur d'oxygène est couplé fluidiquement au dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz au moyen d'un conduit de gaz, par exemple une canalisation flexible.  the oxygen concentrator is fluidly coupled to the gas liquefaction device by means of a gas duct, for example a flexible duct.
- le dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz est relié au patient par un conduit flexible alimentant une interface respiratoire, tel un masque respiratoire ou des canules nasales.  the gas liquefaction device is connected to the patient by a flexible duct supplying a respiratory interface, such as a respiratory mask or nasal cannulae.
- on prévoit un dispositif d'alimentation électrique conçu pour fournir de l'énergie au dispositif de liquéfaction, en particulier via un branchement électrique sur une prise de courant du secteur par exemple.  - A power supply device is provided for supplying energy to the liquefaction device, in particular via an electrical connection to a mains socket for example.
L'invention va maintenant être mieux comprise grâce à la description détaillée suivante, faite à titre illustratif mais non limitatif, en référence aux figures annexées parmi lesquelles :  The invention will now be better understood thanks to the following detailed description, given by way of illustration but without limitation, with reference to the appended figures among which:
- la Figure 1 schématise un mode de réalisation d'une installation médicale de fourniture d'oxygène comprenant un concentrateur d'oxygène et un dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz selon l'invention,  FIG. 1 schematizes an embodiment of a medical oxygen supply installation comprising an oxygen concentrator and a gas liquefaction device according to the invention,
- la Figure 2 détaille le dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz de la Figure 1 ,  FIG. 2 details the gas liquefaction device of FIG. 1,
- les Figures 3 et 4 illustrent le système de refroidissement cryogénique du dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz des Figures 1 et 2, - les Figures 5 à 9 représentent d'autres modes de réalisation possibles d'une installation de fourniture d'oxygène comprenant un concentrateur d'oxygène et un dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz selon l'invention. FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate the cryogenic cooling system of the gas liquefaction device of FIGS. 1 and 2, - Figures 5 to 9 show other possible embodiments of an oxygen supply installation comprising an oxygen concentrator and a gas liquefying device according to the invention.
La Figure 1 schématise un premier mode de réalisation d'une installation médicale de fourniture d'oxygène 1, 30 comprenant un concentrateur d'oxygène 30 et un dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz selon l'invention, produit de l'oxygène (typiquement >90% en vol) à partir d'air ambiant (env. 22% 02). Figure 1 schematizes a first embodiment of a medical oxygen supply facility 1, 30 comprising an oxygen concentrator 30 and a device 1 for liquefying gas according to the invention, produces oxygen (typically> 90% in flight) from ambient air (about 22% 0 2 ).
L'oxygène ainsi produit, typiquement entre 90 et 95 vol.%>, alimente un patient 50 via un conduit flexible 32 et une interface respiratoire 33, tel que masque ou canule respiratoire.  The oxygen thus produced, typically between 90 and 95 vol%, feeds a patient 50 via a flexible conduit 32 and a respiratory interface 33, such as mask or respiratory cannula.
Cette installation de fourniture d'oxygène 1, 30 repose sur un couplage, ici via un conduit d'amenée de gaz 31, d'un concentrateur d'oxygène 30 classique à un dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz, encore appelé liquéfacteur, produisant du froid servant à liquéfier l'oxygène produit par le concentrateur 30.  This oxygen supply installation 1, 30 is based on a coupling, here via a gas supply duct 31, from a conventional oxygen concentrator 30 to a gas liquefying device 1, also called a liquefier, producing gas. cold used to liquefy the oxygen produced by the concentrator 30.
De préférence, le concentrateur d'oxygène 30 est mobile et monté sur roues 31.  Preferably, the oxygen concentrator 30 is mobile and mounted on wheels 31.
Le fonctionnement du concentrateur d'oxygène 30 est classique. On peut utiliser n'importe quel concentrateur disponible dans le commerce.  The operation of the oxygen concentrator 30 is conventional. Any commercially available concentrator can be used.
Typiquement, un concentrateur d'oxygène 30 est un appareil assez compact, par exemple ayant un encombrement de l'ordre 40 cm x 40 cm x 60 cm pour les modèles les plus courants, qui permet de produire de l'oxygène ayant une pureté entre environ 85 et 98%> en volume, en général de l'ordre de 93 à 95% en volume, à partir d'air ambiant et ce, directement chez le patient 50.  Typically, an oxygen concentrator 30 is a fairly compact apparatus, for example having a footprint of the order 40 cm × 40 cm × 60 cm for the most common models, which makes it possible to produce oxygen having a purity between approximately 85 and 98% by volume, generally of the order of 93 to 95% by volume, from ambient air and directly to the patient.
Pour ce faire, un concentrateur d'oxygène 30 met en œuvre un système d'adsorption par alternance de pression, c'est-à-dire via des cycles de type PSA ou VSA.  To do this, an oxygen concentrator 30 implements an alternating pressure adsorption system, that is to say via PSA or VSA type cycles.
Un tel concentrateur 30 d'oxygène comprend généralement un filtre à air pour éliminer les poussières ou autres, un compresseur, deux récipients d'adsorption remplis de particules d'adsorbants, typiquement de la zéolite, et d'un réservoir-tampon d'équilibrage de pression.  Such an oxygen concentrator generally comprises an air filter for removing dust or the like, a compressor, two adsorption vessels filled with adsorbent particles, typically zeolite, and a balancing buffer tank. pressure.
En général, on utilise de la zéolite de type A, X ou LSX (Low Silica X = X pauvre en silice) échangée ou non échangée par un ou des cations métalliques, en particulier des cations calcium (Ca) et/ou lithium (Li). A titre d'exemple, on peut choisir une zéolite X ou LSX échangée à au moins 88% par des cations Li.  In general, use is made of zeolite of type A, X or LSX (Low Silica X = X low in silica) exchanged or not exchanged with one or more metal cations, in particular calcium (Ca) and / or lithium (Li ). By way of example, it is possible to choose a zeolite X or LSX exchanged at least 88% by Li cations.
Les deux récipients d'adsorption fonctionnent de manière alternée, c'est-à-dire que l'un est en phase de production pendant que l'autre est en phase de régénération.  The two adsorption vessels operate alternately, that is to say that one is in the production phase while the other is in the regeneration phase.
Le fonctionnement des concentrateurs d'oxygène est bien connu et ne sera pas détaillé davantage. Dans tous les cas, le flux d'oxygène gazeux produit par le concentrateur d'oxygène 30 alimente un système de refroidissement cryogénique 20 permettant de liquéfier l'oxygène contenu dans ledit flux d'oxygène gazeux et produire de l'oxygène liquide ou LOX. Optionnellement, on peut prévoir d'agencer un petit compresseur pour légèrement accroître la pression du flux d'oxygène délivré par le concentrateur d'oxygène 30, avant son entrée dans le dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz selon l'invention. The operation of the oxygen concentrators is well known and will not be detailed further. In all cases, the flow of gaseous oxygen produced by the oxygen concentrator 30 feeds a cryogenic cooling system 20 for liquefying the oxygen contained in said gaseous oxygen stream and producing liquid oxygen or LOX. Optionally, it is possible to arrange a small compressor to slightly increase the pressure of the oxygen flow delivered by the oxygen concentrator 30 before it enters the gas liquefying device 1 according to the invention.
L'oxygène liquide ou LOX ainsi produit est alors récupéré et stocké dans un réservoir principal 10 d'oxygène liquide qui est en communication fluidique avec le système de refroidissement cryogénique 20.  The liquid oxygen or LOX thus produced is then recovered and stored in a main reservoir 10 of liquid oxygen which is in fluid communication with the cryogenic cooling system 20.
La teneur en oxygène dans le LOX est égale ou approximativement égale à celle dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux.  The oxygen content in the LOX is equal to or approximately equal to that in the oxygen gas stream.
Le réservoir principal 10 comprend un orifice d'entrée 12 communiquant fluidiquement avec un volume interne 11 permettant le stockage de LOX, ledit volume interne 11 ayant une contenance de moins de 5 litres, typiquement moins de 3 litres (équivalent en eau).  The main reservoir 10 comprises an inlet orifice 12 fluidly communicating with an internal volume 11 allowing the storage of LOX, said internal volume 11 having a capacity of less than 5 liters, typically less than 3 liters (water equivalent).
L'orifice d'entrée 12 est aménagé dans la paroi du réservoir principal 10, de préférence il est aménagé au travers d'un col 15 situé en partie haute du réservoir principal 10.  The inlet orifice 12 is arranged in the wall of the main reservoir 10, preferably it is arranged through a neck 15 located in the upper part of the main reservoir 10.
Selon la présente invention, le système de refroidissement cryogénique 20 est du type à tube à gaz puisé, c'est-à-dire qu'il comprend un tube à gaz puisé 21, de forme cylindrique allongée, traversant l'orifice 12 et s'étendant jusque dans le volume interne 11 du réservoir principal 10 de LOX, comme illustré sur les Figures 3 et 4.  According to the present invention, the cryogenic cooling system 20 is of the pulsed gas tube type, that is to say it comprises a pulsed gas tube 21, of elongate cylindrical shape, passing through the orifice 12 and extending into the inner volume 11 of the main tank 10 of LOX, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4.
Le tube à gaz puisé 21 est conçu pour liquéfier l'oxygène contenu dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux provenant du concentrateur 30.  The pulsed gas tube 21 is designed to liquefy the oxygen contained in the flow of oxygen gas from the concentrator 30.
En effet, un tube à gaz puisé, appelé puise tube en anglais, est un dispositif cryogéniques apte à et conçu pour produire des températures cryogéniques allant de 4 K à 120 K environ.  Indeed, a pulsed gas tube, called tubular tube in English, is a cryogenic device adapted to and designed to produce cryogenic temperatures ranging from 4 K to 120 K approximately.
Un tube à gaz puisé fonctionne préférentiellement selon un cycle proche du cycle de Stirling, c'est-à-dire en cycle fermé avec un fluide cryogénique à très basse température, par exemple de l'eau refroidi par de l'hélium gazeux, qui est mis en mouvement au moyen d'un compresseur engendrant des variations de pression et de débit de gaz, de manière à refroidir un tube de réfrigération.  A pulsed gas tube preferably operates in a cycle close to the Stirling cycle, that is to say in a closed cycle with a cryogenic fluid at a very low temperature, for example water cooled by helium gas, which is moved by means of a compressor generating variations in pressure and gas flow, so as to cool a refrigeration tube.
Dans le cas présent, le système de liquéfaction 20 extrait les calories de l'oxygène gazeux par application d'un échange thermique entre le flux d'oxygène issu du concentrateur 30 et le tube à gaz puisé 21 lui-même refroidi par un fluide froid, tel de l'eau refroidie circulant dans un circuit d'eau de refroidissement comprenant conduit d'eau et pompe, puisé par le compresseur 22 qui surmonte le tube à gaz puisé 21, comme visible sur les Figures 3 et 4. In the present case, the liquefaction system 20 extracts the calories from the oxygen gas by applying a heat exchange between the flow of oxygen from the concentrator 30 and the pulsed gas tube 21 itself cooled by a cold fluid , such as cooled water circulating in a cooling water circuit comprising water pipe and pump, pulsed by the compressor 22 which overcomes the pulsed gas tube 21, as visible in Figures 3 and 4.
En fait, dans un tel système, il se produit une mise en contact du flux d'oxygène gazeux issu du concentrateur d'air 30 directement avec une zone froide, encore appelée « bout ou doigt froid », du tube puisé 21. Cette mise en contact va conduire à liquéfier progressivement l'oxygène, alors que les impuretés éventuellement présentes dans le flux d'oxygène, typiquement de l'eau et du C02 principalement, vont constituer une légère pellicule sur cette zone froide 24 et ne boucheront aucun tuyau ou passage situés en aval.  In fact, in such a system, there is a contact between the flow of oxygen gas from the air concentrator 30 directly with a cold zone, also called "tip or cold finger", the pulsed tube 21. This setting in contact will lead to gradually liquefy oxygen, while the impurities possibly present in the flow of oxygen, typically water and CO 2 mainly, will constitute a slight film on this cold zone 24 and will not plug any pipe or passage located downstream.
Cette zone froide ou zone de cryo-refroidissement 24 présente un gradient de température compris entre 350 K et 40 K, de préférence entre 300 K et 90 K, la liquéfaction de l'oxygène s'opérant par contact de l'oxygène gazeux avec ladite zone de cryo- refroidissement 24, laquelle est refroidie par de l'hélium ou analogue dont la circulation dans un circuit de refroidissement interne (non montré) est assurée par le compresseur 22.  This cold zone or cryo-cooling zone 24 has a temperature gradient of between 350 K and 40 K, preferably between 300 K and 90 K, the liquefaction of the oxygen being effected by contact of the oxygen gas with said cryocooling zone 24, which is cooled by helium or the like whose circulation in an internal cooling circuit (not shown) is provided by the compressor 22.
Le LOX ainsi produit va, quant à lui, s'écouler par gravité dans le volume interne 11 du réservoir principal 10 de LOX. Pour ce faire, on prévoit de laisser un espacement 13, c'est-à- dire un passage, entre la surface externe du tube puisé 21 et la surface de la paroi périphérique délimitant l'orifice d'entrée 12 de manière à permette un écoulement du LOX dans cet espacement 13.  The LOX thus produced will, for its part, flow by gravity into the internal volume 11 of the main tank 10 of LOX. To do this, it is intended to leave a spacing 13, that is to say a passage, between the outer surface of the pulsed tube 21 and the surface of the peripheral wall delimiting the inlet orifice 12 so as to allow a flow of the LOX in this spacing 13.
L'oxygène ainsi liquéfié est donc stocké dans le réservoir principal 10 de stockage de LOX en vue de son utilisation ultérieure.  The oxygen thus liquefied is stored in the main storage tank 10 LOX for later use.
Par ailleurs, comme illustré sur les Figures 1 et 2, le dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz selon l'invention comprend un (ou plusieurs) emplacement(s) 17 au niveau duquel se trouve un port ou raccord de remplissage 18 permettant d'y placer et d'y remplir un (ou plusieurs) réservoir(s) secondaire(s) 40, par exemple du type petite bouteille de gaz ayant une contenance de moins de 1,5 L (équivalent en eau), de préférence entre 0,5 et 1 L.  Moreover, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the gas liquefaction device 1 according to the invention comprises one (or more) location (s) 17 at the level of which there is a filling port or connector 18 making it possible to placing and filling one or more secondary tank (s) 40, for example of the type small gas cylinder having a capacity of less than 1.5 L (water equivalent), preferably between 0, 5 and 1 L.
Un réservoir secondaire portatif 40 permet à l'utilisateur 50 de déambuler facilement, en particulier hors de son domicile.  A portable secondary tank 40 allows the user 50 to walk easily, especially outside his home.
Lorsqu'un réservoir secondaire portatif 40 est connecté fluidiquement au port de remplissage 18, il peut y être rempli avec du LOX provenant du stockage principal 10 de LOX auquel ledit port de remplissage 18 est relié fluidiquement, via par exemple un conduit de gaz.  When a portable secondary tank 40 is fluidly connected to the filling port 18, it can be filled with LOX from the LOX main storage 10 to which said filling port 18 is fluidly connected, for example via a gas duct.
Lorsque de l'oxygène liquide est transféré du stockage principal 10 vers le réservoir secondaire 40, un vaporiseur de maintien en pression peut être utilisé pour maintenir la pression dans le stockage principal 10 qui contient principalement du LOX surmonté par un ciel d'oxygène gazeux. De manière générale, le dispositif de liquéfaction 1 a préférentiellement un fonctionnement intermittent pour permettre à la pellicule solide constituée d'impuretés de type eau et C02, se formant sur la zone de cryo-refroidissement 24 de fondre et de ne pas être trop importante sur la zone de cryo-refroidissement 24. When liquid oxygen is transferred from the main storage 10 to the secondary tank 40, a pressurizing vaporizer can be used to maintain the pressure in the main storage 10 which contains mainly LOX surmounted by a sky of oxygen gas. In general, the liquefaction device 1 preferably has an intermittent operation to allow the solid film consisting of water and C0 2 type impurities, forming on the cryo-cooling zone 24 to melt and not be too important. on the cryo-cooling zone 24.
Afin de réduire l'impact des vibrations du tube puisé 21 qui peuvent être importantes et minimiser ainsi la fatigue des matériaux et ralentir l'usure du dispositif, on peut prévoir un dispositif d'amortissement 60 comprenant des plots d'isolation vibratoire 61 portés par une structure-support 62, telle une plaque, venant se fixer au système de refroidissement cryogénique 20, comme illustré en Figure 3. Les plots d'isolation vibratoire 61 sont préférentiellement au nombre d'au moins 3, par exemple 4 plots 61, permettant d'amortir les vibrations engendrées par le compresseur 22. Les plots 61 viennent prendre appui sur un plateau solidaire de l'armature ou carcasse externe du dispositif.  In order to reduce the impact of vibrations of the pulsed tube 21 which can be significant and thus minimize the fatigue of the materials and slow down the wear of the device, a damping device 60 may be provided comprising vibratory isolation pads 61 carried by a support structure 62, such as a plate, which is fixed to the cryogenic cooling system 20, as illustrated in FIG. 3. Vibration isolation pads 61 are preferably at least 3, for example 4 pads 61, allowing to damp the vibrations generated by the compressor 22. The pads 61 come to bear on a plate integral with the frame or outer casing of the device.
On veille également à éviter ou minimiser la formation de givre sur les surfaces périphériques externes 25 du système de liquéfaction 20 car l'air ambiant contient de la vapeur d'eau qui peut s'y condenser et y geler. Pour ce faire, on prévoit soit une bonne ventilation du compartiment liquéfacteur par exemple via un balayage avec un gaz d'échappement sec et chaud, par exemple entre environ 20 et 30°C, et/ou en mettant en œuvre un petit ventilateur, soit une bonne isolation des surfaces périphériques externes 25 avec un ou des matériaux isolants thermiquement et compatibles avec l'oxygène, par exemple de la laine de roche, soit encore une collecte éventuelle des condensais sur une surface chaude pour favoriser leur évaporation.  Frost formation on the outer peripheral surfaces of the liquefaction system 20 is also avoided or minimized because the ambient air contains water vapor which can condense and freeze there. To do this, it is provided either a good ventilation of the liquefier compartment for example via a scan with a dry and hot exhaust gas, for example between about 20 and 30 ° C, and / or by implementing a small fan, either good insulation of outer peripheral surfaces with one or more thermally insulating materials compatible with oxygen, for example rockwool, or further possible collection of condensates on a hot surface to promote their evaporation.
Les Figures 5 à 9 proposent des modes de réalisation permettant de réduire ou minimiser l'encombrement spatial d'une installation de fourniture d'oxygène 1, 30 comprenant le concentrateur d'oxygène 30 et le dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz selon l'invention.  Figures 5 to 9 provide embodiments for reducing or minimizing the space requirement of an oxygen supply facility 1, including the oxygen concentrator 30 and the gas liquefying device 1 according to the invention. .
Ainsi, la Figure 5 illustre un mode de réalisation dans lequel concentrateur d'oxygène 30 et dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz sont reliés l'un à l'autre par une ceinture de couplage 60 permettant de transporter simultanément les deux appareils et de réduire leur encombrement. On pourra aussi prévoir de faire passer la canule 61 d'oxygène concentré au sein de cette ceinture de couplage 60, laquelle canule 61 alimente un masque respiratoire 62 ou analogue.  Thus, Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment in which oxygen concentrator 30 and gas liquefying device 1 are connected to each other by a coupling belt 60 for simultaneously transporting the two devices and reducing their footprint. It will also be possible to pass the cannula 61 of concentrated oxygen within this coupling belt 60, which cannula 61 feeds a respirator 62 or the like.
La Figure 6 illustre un autre mode de réalisation dans lequel concentrateur d'oxygène 30 et dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz sont superposés l'un à l'autre et maintenus ainsi superposés par un ou des éléments de maintien 70 permettant un « clipsage » de ces appareils l'un avec l'autre. Ces éléments de maintien 70 sont par exemple en plastique de manière présenter une certaine élasticité permettant une légère déformation de leurs parois lors de l'opération de clipsage. Ainsi, on peut réduire l'espace occupé au sol sans pour autant devoir transformer le design externe des deux appareils. FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment in which oxygen concentrator 30 and gas liquefying device 1 are superimposed on one another and thus kept superimposed by one or more holding elements 70 allowing a "clipping" of these devices with each other. These holding elements 70 are for example plastic so have a certain elasticity allowing a slight deformation of their walls during the clipping operation. Thus, we can reduce the space occupied on the ground without having to transform the external design of the two devices.
La Figure 7 illustre encore un autre mode de réalisation dans lequel le concentrateur d'oxygène 30 est inséré dans un berceau ou panier 80 porté par l'une des faces du dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz. Ce berceau ou panier 80 constitue un rangement latéral, de préférence en matériau souple, pouvant accueillir le concentrateur 30 d'oxygène, ainsi qu'éventuellement d'autres dispositifs ou instruments.  Figure 7 illustrates yet another embodiment in which the oxygen concentrator 30 is inserted into a cradle or basket 80 carried by one of the faces of the gas liquefying device 1. This cradle or basket 80 constitutes a lateral storage, preferably of flexible material, which can accommodate the oxygen concentrator 30, as well as possibly other devices or instruments.
La Figure 8 illustre encore un autre mode de réalisation dans lequel le concentrateur d'oxygène 30 et le dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz ont été conçus pour venir se coupler l'un à l'autre grâce à des designs adaptés et complémentaires, de manière à former un ensemble monobloc qui peut être déplacé sur le sol grâce à des roues 91 et à une poignée 90 destinée à être saisie manuellement par l'utilisateur. Un tel agencement permet en outre de simplifier la connectique des appareils et de privilégier une seule arrivée de gaz.  Figure 8 illustrates yet another embodiment in which the oxygen concentrator 30 and the gas liquefying device 1 have been designed to couple one to the other by means of suitable and complementary designs, so as to to form a one-piece assembly that can be moved on the ground with wheels 91 and a handle 90 to be manually entered by the user. Such an arrangement also makes it possible to simplify the connection of the appliances and to favor a single gas supply.
Enfin, la Figure 9 propose une variante de la Figure 8, dans laquelle le concentrateur d'oxygène 30 vient se fixer au dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz grâce à une partie de couplage 92 formant un 'tiroir' coulissant d'arrimage. Le dispositif 1 de liquéfaction de gaz comprend alors un système de connexion réciproque configuré pour recevoir ladite partie de couplage 92 formant un 'tiroir' coulissant d'arrimage.  Finally, FIG. 9 proposes a variant of FIG. 8, in which the oxygen concentrator 30 is attached to the gas liquefying device 1 by virtue of a coupling portion 92 forming a sliding sliding drawer. The gas liquefying device 1 then comprises a reciprocal connection system configured to receive said coupling portion 92 forming a sliding lashing drawer.
De manière générale, l'installation 1, 30 de la présente invention est particulièrement bien adaptée aux soins médicaux à domicile.  In general, the plant 1, 30 of the present invention is particularly well suited for home medical care.
Une telle installation de distribution d'oxygène médical présente notamment les avantages suivants :  Such a medical oxygen distribution installation has the following advantages in particular:
- une génération d'oxygène directement in situ, c'est-à-dire au domicile du patient, ce qui évite d'avoir recours à des livraisons de LOX par camion,  a generation of oxygen directly in situ, that is to say at the patient's home, which avoids the use of LOX deliveries by truck,
- une alimentation en oxygène gazeux la nuit avec stockage de LOX de secours, - a supply of gaseous oxygen at night with backup LOX storage,
- un remplissage possible d'un second réservoir de LOX portatif 40, telle une petite bouteille de gaz autorisant une déambulation du patient, a possible filling of a second portable LOX tank 40, such as a small bottle of gas allowing the patient to walk,
- fiabilité, faible émissions sonores et compacité,  - reliability, low noise emissions and compactness,
- une nouvelle source d'oxygène liquide qui permet des déambulations de longue durée pour des patients et ce, sans bruit de compresseur et indépendamment de batteries.  - a new source of liquid oxygen that allows long-term wanderings for patients without compressor noise and independently of batteries.
- une compatibilité du dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz de l'invention avec les concentrateurs d'air existants.  a compatibility of the gas liquefying device of the invention with the existing air concentrators.

Claims

Revendications claims
1. Dispositif (1) de liquéfaction de gaz comprenant : 1. Device (1) for liquefying gas comprising:
- un système de refroidissement cryogénique (20) conçu pour liquéfier de l'oxygène contenu dans un flux d'oxygène gazeux et produire de l'oxygène liquide (LOX), et  a cryogenic cooling system (20) designed to liquefy oxygen contained in an oxygen gas stream and produce liquid oxygen (LOX), and
- un réservoir principal (10) d'oxygène liquide en communication fluidique avec le système de refroidissement cryogénique (20) et comprenant un volume interne (11) de stockage de LOX et un orifice d'entrée (12), ledit réservoir principal (10) étant agencé pour recueillir via l'orifice d'entrée (12) et stocker au sein dudit volume interne (11), au moins une partie du LOX produit par le système de refroidissement cryogénique (20),  a main reservoir (10) of liquid oxygen in fluid communication with the cryogenic cooling system (20) and comprising an internal storage volume (11) of LOX and an inlet port (12), said main reservoir (10) ) being arranged to collect via the inlet port (12) and store within said internal volume (11), at least a portion of the LOX produced by the cryogenic cooling system (20),
caractérisé en ce que le système de refroidissement cryogénique (20) comprend un tube à gaz puisé (21) s'étendant au moins partiellement dans le réservoir principal (10) d'oxygène liquide, ledit tube à gaz puisé (21) étant conçu pour liquéfier l'oxygène contenu dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux.  characterized in that the cryogenic cooling system (20) comprises a pulsed gas tube (21) extending at least partially into the main reservoir (10) of liquid oxygen, said pulsed gas tube (21) being adapted to liquefying the oxygen contained in the gaseous oxygen flow.
2. Dispositif selon la revendication précédente, caractérisé en ce que le système de refroidissement cryogénique (10) est agencé au niveau de l'orifice d'entrée (12) du réservoir principal (10) d'oxygène. 2. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the cryogenic cooling system (10) is arranged at the inlet (12) of the main reservoir (10) of oxygen.
3. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le tube à gaz puisé (21) s'étend au travers de l'orifice d'entrée (12) du réservoir principal (10), de préférence le tube à gaz puisé (21) a une forme tubulaire. 3. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pulsed gas tube (21) extends through the inlet (12) of the main reservoir (10), preferably the tube to pulsed gas (21) has a tubular shape.
4. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'un espacement (13) est aménagé entre la surface périphérique du tube à gaz puisé (21) et la surface de la paroi du réservoir principal (10) au niveau de l'orifice d'entrée (12) de manière à permettre un écoulement par gravité dans le volume interne (11) du réservoir principal (10), via l'orifice d'entrée (12), de l'oxygène liquide se formant au contact du tube à gaz puisé (21). 4. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a spacing (13) is arranged between the peripheral surface of the pulsed gas tube (21) and the surface of the wall of the main tank (10) at the level of the inlet (12) so as to allow a gravity flow in the internal volume (11) of the main reservoir (10) via the inlet (12), the liquid oxygen forming at the contact of the pulsed gas tube (21).
5. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le système de refroidissement cryogénique (20) comprend en outre un compresseur de gaz (22) coopérant avec le tube à gaz puisé (21), de préférence le compresseur (22) surmonte le tube à gaz puisé (21). 5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cryogenic cooling system (20) further comprises a gas compressor (22) cooperating with the pulsed gas tube (21), preferably the compressor (22). ) overcomes the pulsed gas tube (21).
6. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le tube à gaz puisé (21) comprend une extrémité aval (25) située dans le volume interne (11) du réservoir principal (10), ladite extrémité aval (25) portant ou étant prolongée par un dispositif échangeur thermique (26). 6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pulsed gas tube (21) comprises a downstream end (25) located in the internal volume (11) of the main reservoir (10), said downstream end (25). ) carrying or being extended by a heat exchanger device (26).
7. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le compresseur (22) est commandé par un dispositif de pilotage, de préférence par un contrôleur électronique. 7. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the compressor (22) is controlled by a control device, preferably by an electronic controller.
8. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le système de refroidissement cryogénique (20), le réservoir principal d'oxygène (10) et le dispositif de pilotage sont compris dans un capotage (2). 8. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cryogenic cooling system (20), the main oxygen tank (10) and the control device are included in a cowling (2).
9. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le tube à gaz puisé (21) comprend une zone de cryo-refroidissement (24) présentant un gradient de température compris entre 350 K et 40 K, de préférence entre 300 K et 90 K, la liquéfaction de l'oxygène s'opérant au contact de l'oxygène gazeux avec ladite zone de cryo- refroidissement (24). 9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pulsed gas tube (21) comprises a cryo-cooling zone (24) having a temperature gradient of between 350 K and 40 K, preferably between 300 K and 90 K, the liquefaction of oxygen occurring in contact with oxygen gas with said cryocooling zone (24).
10. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le système de refroidissement cryogénique (20) comprend en outre : 10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cryogenic cooling system (20) further comprises:
- une ligne d'entrée de gaz (27) permettant d'amener un flux gazeux au contact du tube à gaz puisé (21), et  a gas inlet line (27) making it possible to bring a gas flow into contact with the pulsed gas tube (21), and
- une ligne de sortie de gaz (28) permettant d'extraire du gaz stocké dans le réservoir principal (10).  - A gas outlet line (28) for extracting gas stored in the main tank (10).
11. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend en outre un port de remplissage permettant le raccordement audit port de remplissage d'un réservoir de gaz secondaire (40) et le remplissage dudit réservoir de gaz secondaire (40) avec du gaz issu du réservoir principal (10), de préférence le réservoir de gaz secondaire (40) est une petite bouteille de gaz ayant une contenance inférieure à 2 L (en équivalent eau). 11. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a filling port for connection to said filling port of a secondary gas tank (40) and the filling of said secondary gas reservoir ( 40) with gas from the main tank (10), preferably the secondary gas tank (40) is a small gas cylinder having a capacity of less than 2 L (in water equivalent).
12. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le tube à gaz puisé (21) fonctionne selon un cycle de Stirling. 12. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pulsed gas tube (21) operates in a Stirling cycle.
13. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le volume interne (11) du réservoir principal (10) a une contenance inférieure à 3 L (équivalent en eau). 13. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the internal volume (11) of the main reservoir (10) has a capacity of less than 3 L (water equivalent).
14. Procédé de liquéfaction de tout ou partie de l'oxygène produit par un concentrateur d'oxygène (30), dans lequel : A process for liquefying all or part of the oxygen produced by an oxygen concentrator (30), wherein:
a) on alimente un système de refroidissement cryogénique (20) avec un flux d'oxygène gazeux contenant au moins 90% en volume d'oxygène provenant d'un un concentrateur d'oxygène (30),  a) supplying a cryogenic cooling system (20) with a flow of oxygen gas containing at least 90 vol.% oxygen from an oxygen concentrator (30),
b) on liquéfie au moins une partie de l'oxygène contenant dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux au moyen du système de refroidissement cryogénique (20) de manière à produire de l'oxygène liquide (LOX), et  b) liquefying at least a portion of the oxygen containing in the oxygen gas stream by means of the cryogenic cooling system (20) to produce liquid oxygen (LOX), and
c) on récupère et on stocke au sein d'un réservoir principal (10) d'oxygène liquide, au moins une partie du LOX produit à l'étape b),  c) recovering and storing, within a main reservoir (10) of liquid oxygen, at least a portion of the LOX produced in step b),
caractérisé en ce qu'à l'étape b), on met en œuvre un système de refroidissement cryogénique (20) comprenant un tube à gaz puisé (21) s'étendant au moins partiellement dans le réservoir principal (10) d'oxygène liquide et comprenant une zone de cryo-refroidissement (24) présentant un gradient de température compris entre 350 K et 40 K, de préférence entre 300 K et 90 K, au moins une partie de l'oxygène contenu dans le flux d'oxygène gazeux se liquéfiant en entrant en contact avec la zone de cryo-refroidissement (24) du tube à gaz puisé (21).  characterized in that in step b) a cryogenic cooling system (20) is implemented comprising a pulsed gas tube (21) extending at least partially in the main liquid oxygen reservoir (10) and comprising a cryo-cooling zone (24) having a temperature gradient between 350 K and 40 K, preferably between 300 K and 90 K, at least a portion of the oxygen contained in the oxygen gas stream is liquefying by contacting the cryo-cooling zone (24) of the pulsed gas tube (21).
15. Installation de fourniture d'oxygène comprenant un concentrateur d'oxygène (30) couplé fluidiquement à un dispositif de liquéfaction de gaz (1) selon l'une des revendications 1 à 13. An oxygen supplying apparatus comprising an oxygen concentrator (30) fluidly coupled to a gas liquefying device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13.
PCT/FR2016/050763 2015-04-16 2016-04-04 Equipment for supplying oxygen combining an oxygen concentrator with a self-contained gas liquefaction device WO2016166440A1 (en)

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FR1553361A FR3035194A1 (en) 2015-04-16 2015-04-16 OXYGEN SUPPLY INSTALLATION ASSOCIATING AN OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR WITH AN AUTONOMOUS GAS LIQUEFACTION DEVICE
FR1553361 2015-04-16

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