WO2021058881A1

WO2021058881A1 - Connection assembly for a controlled-atmosphere cell, and corresponding implementation method and controlled-atmosphere cell

Info

Publication number: WO2021058881A1
Application number: PCT/FR2020/000242
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Mumford; Guillaume RIBOT
Original assignee: Shield
Priority date: 2019-09-23
Filing date: 2020-09-22
Publication date: 2021-04-01
Also published as: EP4035185A1; FR3101188A1; FR3101188B1

Abstract

Said assembly (I) comprises at least one ring (3, 5) intended to support an accessory, and a flange (1) which is intended to be rigidly connected to a wall of the cell and has an internal volume for receiving the ring. Sealing means (9) provide a seal between the opposite faces of each ring and the flange, which has means for immobilising said sealing means relative to the flange. The invention makes it possible to reduce the overall cost of the connection assembly and provides a seal of higher quality than the joints fitted to the rings of the prior art. Indeed, the invention guarantees effective protection against a possible rise in contamination caused by a fluid (liquid or gas) or contaminated particles present in the confined cell.

Description

CONNECTION KIT FOR CELL WITH CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE, IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURE AND CORRESPONDING CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE CELL

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to a connection assembly for a controlled atmosphere cell, comprising a flange and at least one ring intended to cooperate with this flange. It also relates to a method of implementing this assembly, as well as a controlled atmosphere cell equipped with at least one such assembly.

According to a first main variant of the invention, the controlled atmosphere cell is a confinement cell, which is provided with at least one wall forming a delimitation between two spaces, which are advantageously mutually hermetic. This confinement can be of the biological type intended for the care of infected patients, but also said to be “at risk”, likely to present a high epidemic risk. The invention also finds application in other types of containment, in particular the handling of radioactive products in the nuclear industry or of toxic products in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry. The aforementioned spaces first include an outdoor, unconfined space. The other space, called confined, must be isolated as absolutely as possible from the aforementioned external space. In the case of biological containment, the patient to be treated is received within this confined space.

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

State of the art

In the case of a biological type containment, in order to provide appropriate care to the patient, medical personnel must be near him. It is understandable that, in order to carry out this treatment, it is necessary to transport equipment between the exterior space and the confined space. These can include drugs, accessories or tools, among other things.

The transit of this material between spaces must not only be accompanied by the strictest respect for waterproofing, but also prevent any so-called rising phenomenon. contamination, especially during successive uses. Such a rise in contamination corresponds to an untimely passage of contaminated particles, in particular airborne, from the contaminated space and through the connection assembly. To this end, the confinement wall is generally hollowed out with an opening, into which is inserted a fixed flange, cooperating with a movable ring. This ring supports an interchangeable member, such as a glove or a bag, making it possible to carry out the transit of material mentioned above.

During this transit, the outer walls of the ring slide axially, along the inner walls facing the flange. In order to preserve the seal, this ring is typically provided with a peripheral seal. Furthermore, the movement of this ring is ensured by a thrust force exerted by an identical ring intended to take the place of the initial ring.

To illustrate this state of the known art, French patent 2,989,509 (Getinge La Calhene) will be cited in particular. According to the teaching of this document, the peripheral wall of each ring is provided with two housings connected by a bearing pad, as well as an O-ring capable of moving along this peripheral wall. More precisely, if you want to expel the initial ring, you push the latter back by means of another ring, of identical structure. As the ring moves, the aforementioned seal is first extracted from the first housing, then progresses along the running surface until it is inserted into the other housing. In this way, this seal is supposed not only to preserve the seal vis-à-vis the external space, but also to perform a function of cleaning the walls facing the flange and the ring.

Even though French patent 2 989509 highlights supposed advantages with respect to the phenomena of rising contamination, the solution described in this document nevertheless involves certain drawbacks in practice. In fact, it has been observed that the use of a movable seal along a wall does not prove to be completely satisfactory, in particular in order to avoid such a rise in contamination. Moreover, it is a relatively expensive solution, since the structure of the different rings is relatively complex. Now, given that each ring is disposable, the use of a large number of rings tends to generate significant additional costs. In view of the above, an objective of the present invention is to remedy, at least partially, the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above.

Another objective of the invention is to provide a connection assembly which makes it possible to overcome, in a particularly reliable manner, the phenomena of rising contamination that may occur in particular at the end of multiple uses.

Another objective of the invention is to provide such a connection assembly which ensures transfer without breach of confinement.

Another object of the invention is to provide such a connection assembly which can be conveniently integrated, both on a flexible or rigid wall.

Another object of the invention is to provide such a connection assembly which can be used, not only for the transport of objects and materials, but also with gloves, and which can furthermore be adapted for the integration of 'one port filter for a device.

Another object of the invention is to provide such a connection assembly, which has reduced costs compared to the prior art, in particular as regards the consumable material.

Another objective of the invention to provide such a connection assembly, which ensures stable retention of each ring within the internal volume of the flange.

Another object of the invention is to provide such a connection assembly, which allows reliable expulsion of each ring, out of the interior volume of the flange.

Objects of the invention

According to the invention, at least one of the above objectives is achieved by means of an assembly (I) for a containment cell (200), comprising at least one ring (3, 5) intended to support an accessory, for example an interchangeable type accessory (3 '), such as a bag or a glove, or else for example a permanent equipment of the cell such as a fitting, a filter or a connector port, this assembly further comprising a flange (1) intended for to be secured to a wall of said cell, this flange having an internal volume for receiving the or each ring, this assembly comprising sealing means (9), allowing sealing between the opposite faces of each ring and of the flange, this assembly being characterized in that the sealing means (9) are mounted on the internal face of the flange, intended to be opposite the ring, and in that this flange has immobilizing means (92a, 92b), which are able to immobilize these sealing means relative to the flange.

It will be noted, first of all, that it is to the Applicant's merit to have understood the origin of the drawbacks, linked to the use of known products as described above. In substance, the Applicant has in particular identified that, in the known technique, each ring is associated with a respective seal. This implies production costs, according to two different aspects. It is first of all necessary to provide a high number of seals, corresponding to the number of rings used. Furthermore, the structure of each ring is made relatively complex, since it must include means not only to immobilize the seal, but also to make it roll.

On the contrary, the invention provides for the use of sealing means, which are integral with the flange. In other words, the various rings are advantageously devoid of these sealing means. Therefore, the structure of the rings is simplified. Furthermore, the number of seals used is substantially reduced compared to the prior art.

According to other characteristics of the invention: the immobilization means (92a, 92b) are immobilization means by axial compression of the seal. the means for immobilizing by axial compression comprise axial edges (92a, 92b) belonging to a groove (92) formed on the internal face of the flange. the flange comprises two constituent parts (10, 20), each constituent part being provided with a respective axial immobilizing edge. the sealing means mounted on the internal face of said flange comprise at least one annular seal, in particular a single annular seal (9). the annular seal comprises a solid portion (93) intended to prevent any rise in contamination, as well as a tapered portion (94), the section of which decreases opposite the solid portion, this tapered portion being intended to facilitate the sliding of the ring. the annular seal (309) comprises a body (390) inserted in the groove (392) of the flange, as well as a lip (391) extending the body radially inwardly of the flange

- in the absence of external mechanical stress, the circumference of the annular seal is between 190 and 490mm, while the thickness of this annular seal, both in the longitudinal direction and in the radial direction, is between 2 and 10mm.

- each ring (3, 5) has interlocking means, allowing the interlocking of this ring with an adjacent ring of identical structure

- Each ring comprises two constituent parts (30, 45), which define respective wedging surfaces of said interchangeable accessory.

- This assembly comprises means (14, 27, 28) for immobilizing the ring relative to the flange, in at least one axial direction and, in particular, in the two opposite axial directions. the immobilization means in the first axial direction comprise tabs (14), provided at a first longitudinal end of the flange, these tabs being movable between an active immobilization position and an inactive release position. the immobilizing tabs are able to move from their active position to their inactive position under the effect of the interlocking means and, by elasticity, from their inactive position to their active position. the immobilization means in the second axial direction comprise tabs (28) and / or lugs (27) projecting from the internal face of the flange, which are movable between an active immobilization position and an inactive position release. the means of immobilization in the second axial direction are also able to ensure immobilization in rotation of the ring relative to the flange, in at least one direction. the immobilization cleats are able to move from their active position to their inactive position under the effect of the axial advance of each ring and, by elasticity, from their inactive position to their active position.

- This assembly further comprises a maneuvering member (7), able to cooperate with each ring. the operating member comprises rapid locking means with each ring.

- each ring (3, 5) has no sealing means.

These additional features can be implemented with the above main object, individually or in any technically compatible combinations.

The subject of the invention is also a method of implementing an above assembly, in which a first accessory is secured to a first ring and this first ring provided with its accessory is introduced into the internal volume of the flange on immobilizes this first ring, relative to the flange, at least in a first axial direction thanks to the immobilization means, another accessory is secured to a second ring and said first ring and said second ring are mutually fixed; the first ring is moved to the means of the second ring, so as to place the immobilization means in an inactive position and, consequently, to then expel the first ring out of the internal volume of the flange, the second ring is immobilized, relative to the flange, at the less in said first axial direction.

According to an advantageous characteristic, the second ring is secured to said operating member, so as to move said first ring.

Finally, the subject of the invention is a containment cell comprising a containment space, as well as enclosure walls bordering this confinement space, at least one enclosure wall being equipped with at least one set above.

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

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

[Fig. 1] is a perspective view, illustrating from a first angle a connection assembly according to the invention, which is mounted on a wall of a containment enclosure.

[Fig. 2] is a perspective view, illustrating from another angle the connection assembly of FIG. 1. [Fig. 3] is a front view, illustrating the connection assembly of the preceding figures from its front end.

[Fig. 4] is a perspective view, illustrating from a first angle a flange belonging to the connection assembly of the preceding figures.

[Fig. 5] is a perspective view, illustrating from another angle the flange of FIG. 4. [FIG. 6] is a perspective view, illustrating from a first angle a ring belonging to the connection assembly of the preceding figures.

[Fig. 7] is a perspective view, illustrating from another angle the ring of FIG. 6. [FIG. 8] is a perspective view illustrating, at the same angle as in Figure 6, the main section of the ring of Figures 6 and 7.

[Fig. 9] is a perspective view illustrating, at the same angle as in Figure 6, the auxiliary section of the ring of Figures 6 and 7.

[Fig. 10] is a perspective view, illustrating an operating member belonging to the connection assembly of the preceding figures.

[Fig. 11] is a perspective view, illustrating the interlocking between two rings, each of which is similar to that of Figures 6 to 9.

[Fig. 12] is a front view, on a larger scale, illustrating the cooperation between a locking finger belonging to the operating member and a locking surface belonging to the ring.

[Fig. 13] is a front view, on a larger scale, illustrating the axial retaining means of the flange, in their active position preventing the advance of the rings of FIG. 11.

[Fig. 14] is a front view, similar to Figure 13, illustrating the axial retaining means in their inactive position allowing the advance of the rings of Figure 11.

[Fig. 15] is a cross-sectional view, illustrating a seal belonging to the connection assembly according to the invention.

[Fig. 16] is a schematic view, illustrating a first phase of the implementation of the connection assembly according to the invention.

[Fig. 17] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 16, illustrating a second phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 18] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 16, illustrating a third phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 19] is a schematic view, similar to Figure 16, illustrating a fourth phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 20] is a perspective view very schematically illustrating a controlled atmosphere cell which is equipped with a connection assembly according to the invention. [Fig. 21] is a cross-sectional view, similar to FIG. 15, illustrating the assembly of the gasket between the constituent parts of the flange.

[Fig. 22] is a cross-sectional view, similar to Figure 21, illustrating the seal when mounted.

[Fig. 23] is a cross-sectional view, similar to FIG. 21, illustrating the cooperation of the seal with a first ring.

[Fig. 24] is a cross-sectional view, similar to Figure 21, illustrating the cooperation of the seal with this first ring, as well as a second ring, when replacing this first ring with this second ring.

[Fig. 25] is a schematic view, similar to Figure 16, illustrating a first phase of the implementation of a connection assembly according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

[Fig. 26] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 17, illustrating a second phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 27] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 18, illustrating a third phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 28] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 19, illustrating a fourth phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 29] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 25, illustrating a fifth phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 30] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 26, illustrating a sixth phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 31] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 27, illustrating a seventh phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 32] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 28, illustrating an eighth phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 33] is a schematic view, similar to Figure 16 but on a larger scale, illustrating a first phase of the implementation of a connection assembly including a seal according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

[Fig. 34] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 33, illustrating a second phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 35] is a schematic view, similar to FIG. 33, illustrating a third phase of this implementation.

[Fig. 36] is a schematic view, similar to Figure 33, illustrating a fourth phase of this implementation. [Fig.37] is a perspective view illustrating the disassembled position of a ring and of a maneuvering member according to a further variant of the invention.

[Fig. 38] is a perspective view, similar to FIG. 37, illustrating the mounted position between this ring and this operating member. [Fig. 39] is a perspective view, illustrating another ring mounted on a flange, according to the variant of Figures 37 and 38.

[Fig. 40] is a perspective view, illustrating the positioning of the actuator on the flange of Figure 39.

[Fig. 41] is a perspective view, illustrating from another angle the arrangement of Figure 40.

[Fig. 42] is a perspective view, similar to Figure 41, illustrating a first phase of the implementation of the operating device.

[Fig. 43] is a perspective view, illustrating from another angle the cooperation between the actuator and the flange. [Fig. 44] is a perspective view, similar to Figure 42, illustrating a second phase of the implementation of the operating device.

[Fig. 45] is a perspective view, illustrating from another angle the cooperation between the actuator and the flange in Figure 44.

[Fig. 46] is a perspective view, similar to Figure 44, illustrating a third phase of the implementation of the actuator.

[Fig. 47] is a perspective view, similar to Figure 46, illustrating the final phase of the operation of the actuator.

Detailed Description The following references are used in the description below:

[TABLE 1]

Figures 1 and 2 show, partially, a wall 100 belonging to a controlled atmosphere cell which, in the example illustrated, is a confinement cell. In the present description, only the aforementioned wall is illustrated, it being understood that this confinement cell has other mechanical members of conventional type, which are not shown. The wall 100 is hollowed out with an opening 102, allowing the insertion of 'a connection assembly I according to the invention, which will be described in detail in what follows. In the present description, XX denotes the main axis of this connection assembly, which extends through the opening 102, while being perpendicular to the wall 100. This wall 100 delimits two functional spaces, namely a confined space noted C and a exterior space denoted E. By convention, the exterior space is located at the rear of the cell, while the confined space is located at the front of the latter.

The connection assembly according to the invention essentially comprises a flange 1, placed radially outwardly, at least one ring placed radially inwardly, a maneuvering member 7 intended to move each ring axially, as well as a gasket d 'Sealing 9. In the example illustrated, there is shown two rings 3 and 5, of identical structure.

The flange 1, of annular shape, defines an internal volume V1, intended to receive the rings mentioned above. This flange is formed of two parts 10 and 20, respectively called front and rear. These parts are provided with fixing means, advantageously removable, for example by screwing. In the example illustrated, each part 10 and 20 is provided with respective facing connectors 19, 29, allowing the passage of screws, not shown. The outer face of this flange 1 is also secured to the inner wall facing the opening 102. For this purpose, any suitable fixing means, possibly removable, can be provided. By way of nonlimiting, mention will be made in particular of screwing, or even gluing. One can also, for example, mutually screw the parts 10 and 20, so as to sandwich the wall 100 of the cell.

At its front axial end 11, the front part 10 of the flange is provided with several rigid studs 12. In the example illustrated, four of these studs are provided, which are distributed angularly in a regular manner. Each stud supports a respective flexible tongue 14, projecting radially inwardly. As shown in particular in Figure 13, each tab is inclined in front view. This means that this tongue has a non-zero angle a14, passing through the tangent T14 to the circle C11 defined by the internal wall of the end 11.

More precisely, each tongue 14 has a first end 15 which is flush with the circle C11 as well as a second end 16 which projects inwardly with respect to this circle, in the absence of external mechanical stress. As will be seen in what follows, each tongue is capable of being deformed radially outwards so as to be retracted in the vicinity of the internal face of the flange. The rear part 20 firstly comprises two bridges of material 21, diametrically opposed, extending over a small angular extent. Each of these bridges is extended, in a clockwise direction looking at FIG. 5, by means of a respective border 22. The junction between each bridge and each border forms a radial stop 23. Each bridge is further extended, in counterclockwise by looking at the same figure 5, by a respective rib 24. This rib protrudes rearwardly relative to the edge, their junction defining an axial shoulder 25. Finally, each rib is connected to a respective edge 22, via a step 26.

The inner face of the rear part first of all has lugs 27, which protrude radially inward. Cleats 28 are also provided, also projecting radially inward. It will be noted that these lugs and these cleats are elastically prestressed, so that an axial force directed from the rear to the front is capable of retracting them in the vicinity of the internal face of the flange. Furthermore, the lugs 27 have an axial dimension slightly greater than that of the tabs 28, so that these lugs enter a recess 91, formed in the seal 9 Finally, this internal face of the flange defines a groove 92, allowing the seal to be held. 9. The latter, which is illustrated in particular in FIG. 15, has an annular shape. In cross section, this seal 9 comprises first of all a massive part 93, of substantially constant section, which is in particular intended to prevent any rise in contamination, as will be seen below. This massive part 93 is extended, in the direction of the outer space, by a so-called tapered part 94, the section of which decreases in contrast to the massive part above. As will be seen in the following, this tapered part is intended to facilitate the insertion of the various rings.

In this figure 15 we first denote D9 the outer circumference of the seal, which is included by way of non-limiting examples between 200 and 500 millimeters. The thickness of this seal is also noted X9, in the longitudinal direction, which is typically between 5 and 50 millimeters. Finally, Z9 denotes the greatest thickness of this seal, in the radial direction, which is close to the thickness X9 above, namely also typically between 5 and 50 millimeters.

With a view to mounting the gasket 9 on the flange 1, as shown in FIG. 21, the constituent parts 10 and 20 are brought closer to one another, in the longitudinal direction. This allows convenient mounting of this gasket on this flange, without having to substantially stretch the gasket in the radial direction, which makes it possible to preserve its mechanical integrity. Once these parts 10 and 20 have been brought together, as shown in Figure 22, the axial edges 92a and 92b of the groove 92 immobilize the seal relative to the flange, in both axial directions opposites. Once the seal 9 has been immobilized, its longitudinal thickness X'9 is slightly reduced, compared to the value X9 presented above. In other words, the edges 92a and 92b above make it possible to compress the seal 9 axially, so as to ensure better sealing.

The structure of the ring 3 will now be described, it being understood that, as specified above, the structure of the ring 5 is identical. The mechanical elements of this ring 5, which are similar to those of the ring 3, are assigned the same reference numbers increased by the number 20.

This ring 3, of annular shape, is formed of two sections respectively main 30 and auxiliary 45. The main section comprises a barrel 31 ending, at its free end, with a collar 32 and, at its opposite end, with a seat 33 smaller in diameter. The collar 32 is equipped with several tenons 34, projecting forward. In the example illustrated, the ring 3 comprises four tenons, distributed angularly in a regular manner, it being understood that a different number of these tenons can be provided. The main section defines, at its rear end, a wall 35. The latter is hollowed out with housings 36, intended to receive the tenons of another ring, identical to that 3.

In addition, the seat is hollowed out by two notches 37, which are diametrically opposed to each other. Each notch 37, which crosses this seat axially right through, defines a sole 38. In the example illustrated, this sole has a smaller thickness than this seat, it being understood that this characteristic is not limiting. Opposite the notch 37, this sole 38 connects to the seat via a so-called locking surface 40, more particularly visible in Figure 8, the function of which will become clear below. As also shown in particular in this same FIG. 8, the tenons 34 and the notches 37 are mutually offset, angularly. The technical effect associated with this shift will be explained in what follows, with reference to the use of the assembly in accordance with the invention.

The auxiliary section 45, in the form of a crown, has an axial dimension close to that of the above barrel. In service, this section 45 bears axially against the seat, while its outer radial face 47 is in contact with the shaft 31. Furthermore, the face internal radial 48 of this section 45 is flush with the internal face of the main section. The mutual fixing between these two sections is ensured by any appropriate means. A removable type of attachment, in particular by screwing, will be preferred. To this end, the auxiliary section 45 is hollowed out with through holes 46, allowing the passage of screws or the like. Opposite these orifices, the main section 30 is pierced with blind holes 42, allowing the reception of these screws.

In a manner known per se, the ring 3 is integral with an interchangeable accessory 3 ’, shown schematically in Figures 16 to 19. This accessory, of conventional type, can be of any suitable type. In the example shown, this accessory is a bag allowing the introduction of material into the confined space, from the exterior space. In FIGS. 17 to 19, this equipment is assigned the reference 200. It is for example a medical device for treating the patient, or even any other uncontaminated object intended for the patient, in particular the patient. food, consumables, compresses or collection tubes. Alternatively, the aforementioned accessory may be a glove or glove cuff allowing manipulation within the confined space, which is exercised by an operator in the unconfined outdoor space.

In this regard, it should be noted that the production of the ring in two separate sections, capable of being fixed to each other, has specific advantages. First of all it allows the convenient realization of the notch 37 described above. Furthermore, the interchangeable accessory 3 ′ intended to cooperate with the ring can be easily secured to the latter. In fact, before bringing the auxiliary ring 45 against the seat, a portion of this interchangeable accessory is advantageously interposed against this seat, so that the latter can be wedged between the two sections 30 and 45 constituting the ring 3.

The operating member 7 firstly comprises a body 70, forming a gripping handle. This body is extended axially by two side cheeks 72, on the inner face of which is formed a notch 74, the function of which will be detailed in what follows. This operating member 7 is also provided with two bosses 76, the free ends of which are extended by a respective locking finger 78, intended to cooperate with the notch 37. The implementation of the connection assembly 1 in accordance with the invention, as described above, will now be explained in what follows.

It is first of all assumed that the ring 3 is inserted into the internal volume of the flange, being secured to its interchangeable accessory 3 ', as shown in schematic figure 16. When fitting this ring, as shown in figure 23, the internal radial face of this ring slides along the tapered part 94 of the seal, then is immobilized in position around its solid part 93. This seal is then crushed radially, between the opposite faces of the ring and of the flange. As a result, its Z'9 dimension is now smaller than the Z9 mentioned above. In this way, this seal provides a seal between the confined space and the exterior space. In particular, any contaminated particles cannot escape out of the confined volume, so as to contaminate the exterior space.

As shown more particularly in Figures 3 and 13, the tabs 14 are then maintained in their internal radial position, due to their elasticity and in the absence of external stress. Under these conditions, these tongues form stop zones for the ring 3, which are denoted B3 in these figures. Therefore, this ring is axially immobilized by these tongues in a first direction, namely towards the front. Furthermore, the cleats 37 and the lugs 38 also project radially inwardly, so as to immobilize this ring in the opposite direction, namely towards the rear. The position of these cleats of these lugs is illustrated schematically in dotted lines, in Figure 23.

It is now assumed that one wishes to expel the ring 3, namely to bring it out of the internal volume of the flange in order to introduce it into the confined space C. For this purpose, one comes first of all to fix the locking member. maneuver 7 in relation to the rear ring 5, fitted with its interchangeable accessory 5 '. The latter can be either similar to accessory 3 'fitted to the first ring, or of a different type from this first accessory.

With a view to the aforementioned fixing, the walls of each notch 74 are fitted onto a respective rib 24 of the flange 1. During this axial movement, the locking fingers 78 penetrate inside each of the notches 57, the position of these fingers being shown in dotted lines in FIG. 13. Then the actuator 7 is pivoted with respect to both the flange and the ring. At the end of this movement of pivoting, each finger 74 moves along a respective sole 58, until it comes to rest on the locking surface 60. The final position, called locking, of the finger 74 is shown in solid lines in this same figure 13 The operating member 7 and the rear ring 5 are then mutually immobilized.

Secondly, thanks to the actuator 7, the second ring 5 is moved in contact with the rear front end of the first ring 3 (see schematic figure 17). FIG. 11 then shows in detail the mutual interlocking between these rings 3 and 5, by cooperation of shapes. More precisely, the tenons 54 of the ring 5 penetrate into the housings 36 of the ring 3. It will be noted that, once the two rings are interlocked, the tenons 34 and 54 belonging to these respective rings are not aligned. axially. This mutual interlocking of the rings 3 and 5 is also illustrated, schematically, in FIG. 18.

In the above example, the member 7 is first of all fixed on the ring 5. As a variant, it could be provided to firstly secure the rings 3 and 5 to each other, before securing the. member 7 on the ring 5. However, this variant is less preferred. In this regard, the member 7 not only provides an improved grip, but also confers an additional advantage in terms of safety. Indeed, when the ring 3 is ejected, this operating member is blocked relative to the part 24 of the flange. This makes it possible to avoid too great a translational movement, liable to prematurely initiate the ejection of the ring 5, in the event that the tabs 14 have not returned quickly enough in position to block this ring.

Then, as shown in Figure 14, the user rotates the operating member and, consequently, the rings 3 and 5, according to the arrow F. At the end of this pivoting movement, the studs 34 of the ring 3 retract the tongues 14 radially outwards along arrow F16. Consequently, these tongues are in a so-called inactive position, in which they do not allow axial immobilization of the front ring 30. Simultaneously, the walls of the notch 74 are released vis-à-vis the rib 24. The operator is then able to move the actuator forward, relative to the flange, until the walls of the notch 74 now cooperate with the edge 22. At the end of this movement axial, the ring 3 is pushed forward by the operating member, so that it falls back by gravity into the outer space. This last phase is illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. 19, which shows that it is then possible to extract the material 200 from the accessory. interchangeable 3 '. This material can then be used, in an appropriate manner, within the contaminated space.

Figure 24 illustrates on a larger scale the replacement of the first ring 3, by the second ring 5. As the axial progression of the second ring 5, the latter retracts inwards the tabs and the lugs 37 and 38. In a manner analogous to what has been described above for the ring 3, this ring 5 slides along the tapered portion 94. When it reaches the solid portion 93, it axially pushes the first ring 3, which progresses along this portion 93 with a view to his expulsion.

This figure 24 further illustrates one of the major advantages of the invention over the prior art. Indeed, the use of the seal 9 which is integral with the flange, prevents any rise in contamination as indicated by the crossed out arrow F9. This is to be compared with the prior art, in which there is pooling of the contaminated volume with a gap, which is created by the offset between two independent seals mounted on respective rings. In the invention, the confinement limit remains fixed and the rings provide continuity of the seal, as soon as this physical limit is reached. Unlike the solutions of the prior art, thanks to the invention, there can be no contaminants that could be exposed outside the containment cell. Indeed, the invention is free from successive pooling of the confined volume, with an interstice separating the joints. On the contrary, in the prior art, there is such a gap shared with the uncontaminated volume, during the various ring changes.

Once the front ring 3 has been expelled, the tenons 34 fitted to the latter no longer exert any action on the tabs 14. However, as seen above, the tenons 54 of the ring 5 do not are not aligned with those 34. In this way, these tenons 54 are not located opposite the tongues 14. Consequently, due to their prestressing, these tongues 14 return by elasticity to their active position, in which they protrude radially. towards the inside. Under these conditions, these tongues prevent the axial advance of the second ring 5, which is immobilized in the internal volume of the flange. Finally, the operating member 7 is disconnected from the ring 5 which has just been fitted. To this end, this operating member is pivoted so as to protrude the locking fingers 78 from the notches 57. It will be noted that the lugs 27 and the tabs 28 perform a common function of anti-return in translation of the rings, that is to say of sliding the latter in the opposite direction to that desired. Having four non-return elements, distributed angularly in a regular manner, makes it possible to maintain the alignment of the ring in the flange. The lugs 27 also provide an additional function of anti-return rotation of the ring, when the actuator 7 is disconnected. Given that the latter has an anti-clockwise movement, there is then a risk of causing rotating the last ring and misaligning the assembly. These lugs 27 consequently guarantee the alignment of the rings with respect to the tongues 14.

If it is then desired to expel the second ring 5, it is a matter of using a third ring, not shown, of the same structure. This third ring is then fitted together and then, by action of the actuator, the second ring is axially pushed back by carrying out the same operations as that described above with reference to the illustrated figures.

An alternative embodiment of the invention will now be explained with reference to FIGS. 25 to 32. In what has been described above, each ring 3 or 5 supports an accessory of the interchangeable type, such as a bag or a glove. The invention also finds its application to a ring supporting another type of accessory, in particular permanent equipment of the cell. By way of non-limiting examples, this permanent equipment could be a connector, in particular a quick connector, a filter or even a connector port.

It is first assumed that, once mounted on the ring, this equipment does not protrude axially from this ring. In this case, which is not shown, the implementation method described with reference to Figures 16 to 19 is substantially unchanged.

It is now assumed, with reference to Figures 25 to 32, that this equipment is rigid and prominent. In other words, it protrudes axially with respect to the ring which supports it, on the proper outer side in the example described in these figures. A ring 205 is equipped with such equipment, which is referenced 205 '. It is also assumed that a ring 203 has been previously placed in the flange 1, so as to cooperate with the seal 9. So as not to interfere with the equipment 205 ′, this ring 203 is preferably provided with 'a non-prominent accessory 203', such as a bag or glove. Furthermore, these rings and their equipment must not interfere with the operating handle 7, which is not shown in these figures. With reference to FIGS. 25 to 28, the same steps are then repeated, as those described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 19. The expulsion of the ring 203 and its accessory is carried out, in particular during the step of FIG. 27, without leakage. This FIG. 27 is to be compared to FIG. 24, illustrating the impossibility of rising contamination, during the change of rings. Once the first ring 203 is expelled, the ring 205 with the protruding equipment is placed in the flange 1 as shown in Figures 28 and 29. If it is desired to expel this second ring 205, it is possible to expel this second ring 205. This involves using an additional ring 207. The latter is advantageously associated with a flexible accessory 207 ′, such as a bag or a glove. As shown in Figure 31, the latter is unfolded opposite the ring 205, in order to avoid any interference. Furthermore, the prominent equipment 205 'extends inside the annular space, formed by the ring 207. With reference to FIGS. 29 to 32, the expulsion of the ring 205 and its equipment 205' is brought into play. works analogously to what has been described above, thanks to the additional ring 207 and to the actuator, not shown. In particular, during this expulsion, any break in the continuity of the seal is avoided.

Figures 33 to 36 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the connection assembly, according to the invention. In these figures the mechanical elements similar to those described in Figures 1 to 24 are assigned the same reference numbers, increased by the number 300.

The connection assembly II of Figures 33 to 36 differs from that I of Figures 1 to 24, in particular as regards the structure of the seal 309. The latter has an annular body 390, which is inserted into the groove 392 of the flange 301. It should be noted that, as opposed to the seal 9 above, this body 390 does not project radially inwards, relative to the walls of the flange. This massive body 390 is extended radially inward by a lip 391.

The implementation of the assembly II according to the invention, using the seal 309 described above, is generally similar to that of the assembly I according to the first embodiment. First, as shown in figure 33, the first ring 303 is pending. This ring is retained axially in opposite longitudinal directions, on the one hand thanks to the tabs 337 and to the lugs 338 and, on the other hand, thanks to the tongues 314.

Then, as shown in Figure 34, the second ring 305 is inserted into the internal volume of the flange, according to arrow F305, so as to cooperate with the first ring 303. The second ring is then rotated according to arrow f305. , while applying a slight axial pressure along the same arrow F305, so as to bring out the first ring 303, as illustrated in figure 35.

As illustrated in particular in FIG. 35, the internal radial face of the ring 303 tends to flatten the lip 391 of the seal 309, which therefore presses over a large part of its length against this ring 303. It should therefore be noted that this lip 391 satisfactorily ensures not only the sliding of the first ring, but also the maintenance of the seal during the passage of the second ring.

To this end, a person skilled in the art will choose, for this lip 391, an axial dimension sufficient to cover the entire contact zone between the rings 303 and 305. Typically, this dimension X309 is typically between 5 and 50. millimeters. It is dependent on the width of the contact zone between the rings, which is itself dependent on the depth of the housing of the tenons.

Finally, with reference to Figure 36, the first ring 303 is expelled. At the same time, the second ring 305 is locked in position, similar to the first ring 303 in Figure 33.

Figures 37 to 47 illustrate an additional embodiment of the connection assembly, according to the invention. In these figures the mechanical elements similar to those described in Figures 1 to 24 are assigned the same reference numbers, increased by the number 400.

As shown firstly in Figure 37, the actuator 407 differs from that 7 of the first embodiment, in that the shape of its body 470 is slightly different. However, these differences do not affect the overall functions of the actuator which have been presented above. In essence, the body 470 is extended, at its two opposite ends, by arcs 471 extending in a small sector. angular. These arcs are, in particular, intended for better grip. Furthermore, at the aforementioned ends, the body is provided with reliefs 476, on which reference marks 477 are placed.

Figures 37 and 38 illustrate the cooperation of this operating member 407 with a ring 403, which is intended to be inserted into a flange as will be described below. The first step is to insert the locking fingers 478 into the axial part 444 of the locking hole 442, according to the arrow T1. Then these fingers are rotated according to the arrow R1, so that they enter the lateral part 446 of these same holes 442. Figure 38 illustrates the locked position, between this locking member and this ring.

FIG. 39, for its part, illustrates the cooperation of the flange 401, formed of its constituent parts 410 and 420, with a ring 503 placed beforehand on this flange. In a manner analogous to what has been described in the first embodiment, this ring is locked in position. Indeed, the various tabs and lugs 427 and 428 prevent the displacement, both in translation and in rotation, of this ring 503 relative to this flange.

Then the actuator, equipped with the new ring 403, is brought closer to the flange 401. For this purpose, the part 420 of the flange is provided with a peripheral band 422, in which are made first two notches 423 and two recesses 424. Each pair of notches, symmetrically opposed, have a small axial dimension, while each pair of recesses, also symmetrically opposed, have a larger axial dimension. First end shoulders 480 are defined between the main part of the band and each notch 423, second end shoulders 482 are defined between this main part of the band and each recess 424, while intermediate shoulders 481 are defined between each indentation and each indentation.

The first step is to arrange the references 477 opposite the projections 429, which extend over the outer periphery of the strip 422 at the level of the notches 423. This guarantees, as illustrated in Figures 40 and 41, a positioning correct between the actuator and the ring. In this position, each relief 476 extends in the vicinity of a respective shoulder 480. Then, as shown in Figure 42, the actuator is rotated according to the arrow R2, so that each relief now abuts against a respective opposite shoulder 482.

Then, as shown in Figure 44, the actuator is moved axially along arrow T2. This induces a corresponding axial displacement of the ring 403, which pushes back the ring 503 in a manner analogous to what has been described above. The expulsion of the ring 503 is shown by the arrow F503 in FIG. 45. At the end of this axial movement, the new ring 403 is immobilized by the tabs and the pins 427,428.

According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, illustrated in FIG. 43, the flange 401 comprises a peripheral rim 417 provided with different elastic zones 418. Each elastic zone has a rest position, namely in the absence of external stress, in which it is partially folded towards the inside of the flange. Furthermore, this elastic zone can adopt a deformed position, under the effect of an external stress, in which it is fully unfolded towards the outside of the flange.

At the same time, each ring 403,503 is provided with teeth 438,538 (see also FIGS. 37 and 38), which are intended to cooperate with the elastic zones 418 described above. When the ring 503 is inserted into the flange, the teeth 538 exert no action on the elastic zones 418. Consequently, the latter project radially inwards, so as to prevent the axial advance of the ring 503. This constitutes an additional security, aimed at preventing any untimely evacuation of this ring.

Then, during the rotation according to the arrow R2, the ring 503 is set in motion so that the teeth 538 come into contact with these elastic zones, so as to separate them radially outwards. This movement is materialized by arrows F418, in FIG. 43. It will be noted that this bringing of the teeth into contact with these elastic zones corresponds to the abutment, shown in FIG. 42, between the reliefs 476 and the shoulders 482. A once these elastic zones 418 have been retracted towards the outside, it is possible to evacuate the ring 503 by means of the axial movement mentioned above. It should be noted that the elastic zones 418 can be replaced by any other structure, providing a self-locking function. As an alternative, it is possible to use valves, for example of the spring-loaded metal type. Finally, it is a question of extracting the actuator 407, relative to the new ring 403 now inserted in the flange. To this end, this actuator is first rotated relative to this ring according to the arrow R3, visible in FIG. 46. This rotation, which is operated in a direction opposite to the arrow R2 above, allows the fingers of the operating member to move along the lateral part 446 of the holes 442, until they are opposite their axial part 444. Finally, it is a matter of moving in translation, according to the arrow T3, the operating member opposite the ring. During this setting in motion, the fingers of the operating member slide along the axial part 444, until they come out of the holes 442.

At the end of this movement, as shown in FIG. 47, this operating member is now separated from the ring. It is then possible to carry out an additional operation, aimed at replacing the ring 403 with another ring, not shown. This embodiment, illustrated with reference to FIGS. 37 to 47, has specific advantages. In fact, it allows effective placement of the various rings by means of the actuator, while allowing easy separation of this actuator from the ring once in place.

The invention has many advantages over the prior art.

First, the mounting of the sealing means on the flange, and not on each ring as in the prior art, makes it possible to reduce the overall cost of the connection assembly according to the invention. Indeed, according to the invention, there is advantageously provided a single seal integral with the flange. On the other hand, unlike the prior art, the rings according to the present invention are advantageously devoid of such a seal, which makes it possible to simplify their manufacture and to significantly reduce their cost price.

Despite this reduction in costs, the invention does not compromise on the quality of the seal thus imparted. On the contrary, the use of a gasket integral with the flange provides a seal of better quality, compared with the gaskets fitted to the rings of the prior art. Indeed, the invention then guarantees effective protection vis-à-vis a possible rise of contaminated particles, from the confined space towards the outside space. In particular, the Applicant has identified that, in the prior art, the seals of two successive rings define intervals which are liable to generate a seal rupture. The invention makes it possible to overcome this undesirable phenomenon, by virtue of the advantageous use of a continuous seal.

Furthermore, the invention ensures reliable immobilization of the various constituent elements, in a first functional position, as well as a convenient and secure expulsion of the chosen ring. It should be noted in this spirit that it is possible to expel a single ring, given the presence of a double security. First, there is a locking ring on the handle, allowing the change operation. Moreover, as soon as the first ring passes, anti-return means are activated. It will also be noted that the tenons 34 and 54 perform a dual function, namely on the one hand the mutual immobilization between the rings and, on the other hand, the retraction of the stop tabs 14.

In addition, the embodiment of Figures 33 to 36 has specific advantages. Indeed, the use of a lip seal guarantees satisfactory robustness and a reduced production cost, while ensuring satisfactory sealing. Moreover, such a lip seal makes it possible to reduce the friction forces.

The invention is not limited to the examples described and shown. In particular, it is possible to provide a seal fixed to the flange, by virtue of a non-return system, for example of the harpoon type. Such a system allows, in a manner known per se, better attachment of the seal relative to the flange.

Claims

1. Assembly (I; II) for a containment cell (200), comprising at least one ring (3, 5; 203, 205) intended to support an accessory, for example an accessory of interchangeable type (3 '), such as a bag or glove, or else for example permanent equipment of the cell such as a connector, a filter or a connector port, this assembly further comprising a flange (1; 301) intended to be secured to a wall of said cell, this flange having an internal volume for receiving the or each ring, this assembly comprising sealing means (9; 309), allowing sealing between the facing faces of each ring and of the flange, this assembly being characterized in that the sealing means (9; 309) are mounted on the internal face of the flange, intended to be opposite the ring, and in that this flange has immobilization means (92a, 92b; 392a , 392b), which are able to immobilize these sealing means relative to the flange.

2. Assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the immobilizing means (92a, 92b; 392a, 392b) are immobilization means by axial compression of the seal, these immobilizing means by axial compression comprising in particular axial edges ( 92a, 92b; 392a, 392b), belonging to a groove (92; 392) formed on the internal face of the flange.

3. Assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the flange comprises two constituent parts (10, 20; 310, 320), each constituent part being provided with a respective axial immobilizing edge.

4. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing means mounted on the internal face of said flange comprise at least one annular seal, in particular a single annular seal (9; 309), the annular seal (9) ) comprising in particular a solid portion (93) intended to prevent any rise in contamination, as well as a tapered portion (94), the section of which decreases opposite the solid portion, this tapered portion being intended to facilitate the sliding of the ring, or else the annular seal (309) comprising in particular a body (390) inserted in the groove (392) of the flange, as well as a lip (391) extending the body radially towards the inside of the flange.

5. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each ring (3, 5) has interlocking means, allowing the interlocking of this ring with an adjacent ring of identical structure

6. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each ring comprises two constituent parts (30, 45) which define respective wedging surfaces of said interchangeable accessory.

7. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein this assembly comprises means (14, 27, 28) for immobilizing the ring relative to the flange, in at least one axial direction and, in particular, in the two opposite axial directions.

8. Assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the immobilization means in the first axial direction comprise tongues (14) provided at a first longitudinal end of the flange, these tongues being movable between an active immobilization position and a inactive release position, knowing that preferably the immobilizing tabs are able to move from their active position to their inactive position under the effect of the interlocking means and, by elasticity, from their inactive position to their active position.

9. Assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the immobilization means in the second axial direction comprise tabs (28) and / or lugs (27) projecting from the internal face of the flange, which are movable between an active immobilization position and an inactive release position, knowing that preferably the immobilization means in the second axial direction are also able to ensure a rotational immobilization of the ring relative to the flange, in at least one meaning.

10. Assembly according to the preceding claim, in which the immobilizing cleats are able to move from their active position to their inactive position under the effect of the axial advance of each ring and, by elasticity, from their inactive position to their. active position.

11. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein this assembly further comprises an operating member (7) adapted to cooperate with each ring, this operating member comprising in particular rapid locking means with each ring.

12. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein each ring (3, 5) is devoid of sealing means.

13. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flange (401) has a recess (424) allowing, on the one hand, an axial advance of the operating member for the immobilization of each ring by relative to the flange and, on the other hand, a setting in rotation of the actuator relative to the ring once immobilized, in order to allow the separation of this actuator relative to this ring.

14. A method of implementing an assembly according to one of claims 6 to 13, wherein a first accessory is secured to a first ring and this first ring provided with its accessory is introduced into the internal volume of the flange on immobilizes this first ring, relative to the flange, at least in a first axial direction thanks to the immobilization means, another accessory is secured to a second ring and said first ring and said second ring are mutually fixed; the first ring is moved to the means of the second ring, so as to place the immobilization means in an inactive position and, consequently, to then expel the first ring out of the internal volume of the flange, the second ring is immobilized, relative to the flange, at the less in said first axial direction.

15. Containment cell comprising a confinement space, as well as enclosure walls bordering this confinement space, at least one enclosure wall being equipped with at least one assembly according to one of claims 1 to 13.