EP0774025B1 - Pyrotechnic tool firing device - Google Patents

Pyrotechnic tool firing device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0774025B1
EP0774025B1 EP95926425A EP95926425A EP0774025B1 EP 0774025 B1 EP0774025 B1 EP 0774025B1 EP 95926425 A EP95926425 A EP 95926425A EP 95926425 A EP95926425 A EP 95926425A EP 0774025 B1 EP0774025 B1 EP 0774025B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tool
tube
pyrotechnic
launching tube
gas generator
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP95926425A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0774025A1 (en
Inventor
Bernard Castagner
Jean-Pierre Boyault
Dominique Dufaut
Alain Nguyen
Claude Waitzenegger
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of EP0774025A1 publication Critical patent/EP0774025A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0774025B1 publication Critical patent/EP0774025B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02DFOUNDATIONS; EXCAVATIONS; EMBANKMENTS; UNDERGROUND OR UNDERWATER STRUCTURES
    • E02D3/00Improving or preserving soil or rock, e.g. preserving permafrost soil
    • E02D3/02Improving by compacting
    • E02D3/046Improving by compacting by tamping or vibrating, e.g. with auxiliary watering of the soil
    • E02D3/061Tampers with directly acting explosion chambers
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02DFOUNDATIONS; EXCAVATIONS; EMBANKMENTS; UNDERGROUND OR UNDERWATER STRUCTURES
    • E02D7/00Methods or apparatus for placing sheet pile bulkheads, piles, mouldpipes, or other moulds
    • E02D7/02Placing by driving
    • E02D7/06Power-driven drivers
    • E02D7/12Drivers with explosion chambers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for pyrotechnic projection of tools connected to a piston mobile projection inside a launch tube. More particularly, the present invention relates to a pyrotechnic projection device, included in a modular pyrotechnic tool projection system, using the energy delivered by a gas generator and whose recoil balancing is ensured by the effect of gravity on the launch structure.
  • the invention applies even more particularly to a material of pyrotechnic projection of tools fitted with a piston high speed projection interface from a tube launch in which a pressure of combustion created by the gases emitted by a generator gas from a propellant powder.
  • EP-A-0 389 375 describes a driving system anchoring in the ground by using the energy delivered by a gas generator, a system including balancing of recoil is ensured by the effect of gravity on the launch structure that acts as a protector acoustic.
  • EP-A-0 561 968 describes a measurement system soil characteristics by driving in a probe rod which is brought into gear by the energy delivered by a gas generator and of which the evolution of the speed of penetration into the ground is continuously measured by an electromagnetic assembly.
  • the pyrotechnic projection device precisely aims to better satisfy these different user wishes.
  • the present invention relates to a device for pyrotechnic projection of a tool, contained inside a barrel or frame made up of a gas generator projection, associated with a trigger system or initiation, placed in a modular cylinder head connected to a spout or grip, and fixed at one end a launch tube secured to a ballast mass intended to withstand the recoil effect exerted on the cylinder head at during the projection and which is connected to one of its ends to a damping cylinder interposed between the frame and the mass ballast to absorb the fallout of this mass ballast after its retreat.
  • the gas generator placed in the cylinder head and its trigger are located outside and at a end of the launch tube that receives the tool at across the other end.
  • the launch tube has at its opposite end to the gas generator, side ejection vents gases before the projection piston leaves the launch tube, and these vents open into a annular chamber formed between the outer wall of the launch tube and a cylindrical extension of the frame surrounding the launch tube.
  • the launch tube is internally equipped with a sub-calibrated pull-out tube allowing the use of a piston projection of smaller diameter tools.
  • the triggering system of the generator gas consists of a percussion device of a primer. It is separated from the cylinder head receiving the gas generator by a vented part capable of ejecting gases from leaks at the orifice percussion; it is thus possible to avoid fouling of the trigger system.
  • this comprises a tool loading member consisting of a cable axially passing through the launch tube and connected to a gripper that can be disconnected under the effect of the propelling force acting on the tool projection piston in the launch tube and a sealing plate serving as a support element and stop when raising the tool in the tube launch and used to control the release of the pliers.
  • the projection piston can be connected rigidly or to be attached to various tools such as plate compactor, punch compactor, core tube, landfill tube, injector, penetrometer rod, earth cable carrying rod.
  • the gas generator is placed in a combustion chamber and its launch system is preferably located outside the launch tube and outside the projected tool or its launching piston.
  • a modular cylinder head allows, in the same material, the use of generators gases of different diameters and therefore of different masses propellant powders that are adapted to the energy required the proper functioning of each tool.
  • the handle gripping of the modular cylinder head housing facilitates introduction and especially extraction after operation of the gas generator in its combustion chamber.
  • the caliber of the launch tube is adaptable to the diameter the projected tool or its tool holder thanks to the introduction and locking in position of additional tubes small diameter inside the launch tube.
  • the launch tube is equipped with vents side which allow to eject, after the passage of the tool piston, gas up in chamber annular which constitutes a silencer inside the frame of the device according to the invention.
  • the launch tube and its ballast or mass structure ballast are free to back up vertically and this decline ensures, under the effect of gravity, balancing the amount of movement applied to the piston and to the projected tool.
  • Adaptation of the jacking speed, the holding force applied to the launch tube and its ballast structure and return speed of the launch tube and its ballast structure is made using calibrated single or double pass vents and cylinder inflation pressure.
  • the percussion release system is mounted preferably on a set of studs allowing gases leaving the percussion system and, where applicable, the breech, to go outside the system - an elastic sealing membrane being capable of complete the protection of the percussion system.
  • Loading or placing heavy tools is carried out according to the invention using a cable which passes axially through the launch tube.
  • the devices projection in the case of heavy tools, are equipped an offset combustion chamber to allow the passage of the cable which is preferably wound on a drum using an electric motor.
  • the cable is equipped at its end with a clip which is disengageable either mechanically under the effect of the traction due to the gas pressure, either electrically or under the effect of the pressure created in the launch tube.
  • the pyrotechnic tool projection device can be fitted with a measuring tube the projection speed of the tool, a composite tube of measure being fixed on a rigid structure in material non-magnetic and non-conductive composite, in order to connect the measuring tube to the device frame.
  • the pyrotechnic tool projection system as well produced is preferably mounted on a carrier member to tracks, but, for small models, it can be mounted on a motorized or non-motorized wheeled carrier or the back of a truck or pickup or even on a railway wagon.
  • a fastening system fast on an arm of public works machine such that a backhoe, allows to transform the device pyrotechnic projection in an interchangeable tool with backhoe buckets.
  • the pyrotechnic projection system can thus be loaded either vertically or horizontally.
  • the folded position for loading or for transport is preferably carried out by a mechanical system of the wheel and worm type driven by a motor electric.
  • other motion generation systems such as cylinders and hydraulic motors, wheels and chains transmission.
  • the device for pyrotechnic projection of tools according to the invention is mounted inside a frame or barrel 1 of form general cylindrical fitted with a gate 2 allowing to access the installation part of the tool.
  • the launch structure mounted inside the frame 1 is consisting of a ballast mass 3 which serves as a guide element of the launch structure in the frame during the recoil of it, of a bottom or flange 4 of the chamber of trigger and launch tube 5.
  • the chamber assembly combustion receiving a gas generator 9 is constituted a burst-resistant cylinder head 7, a plate 8 breakthrough exhaust ports 18 of the combustion, of a casing forming a loading envelope 10.
  • the cylinder head 7 is fixed rigidly and so removable and interchangeable, for example using screws such as 4a, 4b, at the bottom 4 of the expansion chamber 5a formed inside the launch tube 5.
  • the housing casing 10 of the gas generator 9 placed in the cylinder head 7 thus fixed externally and removably to the launch tube 5, allows both the use of different launch tubes 5 and different 9 gas generators and their extraction and their replacement using a grip handle 11 beak-shaped.
  • the cover 15 is removed by sliding, which allows introduce the charge into the cylinder head housing 7 propellant 9 surrounded by its casing 10 while holding it by handle 11, then after replacing the cover 15, to rigidly lock this generator in position gas with its ignition system 26 (see Figure 7) placed opposite the striker 13.
  • the propellant powder 31 is ignited by the primer 28 and the ignition powder 27; she burns very quickly by creating a lot of gas which generates a high pressure in chamber 5a of the launch tube 5.
  • This pressure propels, on the one hand at high speed downwards, the piston 41 and the tool attached to it and, on the other hand upwards, the cylinder head 7 as well as the launch tube 5 and ballast mass 3.
  • the tool by example the penetrometer 43, sinks into the ground while that the whole launch tube and ballast weights 3 rises a few decimeters upwards, being held back by the effect of gravity; they fall back into position or in battery braked by the gas spring 6.
  • the projection device can then be put on place over a new shooting location, if if necessary using a tool of another type, a tube of launch of another diameter and propellant charges different.
  • the tube launch 5 internally, near the bottom 4 of the launch tube, leaving sufficient space for the piston 41, a groove 20 in which is mounted a polygonal or circular elastic ring 19 of locking of piston 41 of the tool to be launched (see also Figure 2).
  • the launch tube 5 can receive (as shown in FIG. 5) launching tubes 21 with diameters lower suitable for ejecting tools or tool holders with smaller diameters.
  • the trigger system 9a of the gas generator pyrotechnic 9 is preferably made by percussion using an electromagnet 12 fitted with a striker fixed or adjustable 13.
  • the electrical connection 14 between the electromagnet 12 and a power source is made with an extensible spiral wire.
  • the electromagnet can be replaced by another percussion system such a pneumatic cylinder, a spring-cylinder assembly hydraulic, a spring bandaged manually or by a electric motor. If the ignition of the gas generator is produced by laser or channel electric, the electromagnet is replaced by a source laser or correspondingly by an electric trigger likely to be connected to an electrical source such as a battery.
  • a cover plate 15 bearing the striker 13 closes the breech 7 upwards, for example by simple translation in grooves 16 (see figure 3).
  • the cylinder head 7 thus constitutes a subset rigid and interchangeable fixed externally and removably at one end (flange 4) of the tube launch 5.
  • the vents 17 open into an annular chamber 1a which is mainly delimited between a cylindrical extension 1b of the frame 1 and the outer wall of the tube launch 5. This produces an exhaust pipe upward propellant which suppresses or at least significantly reduce the nuisance likely to be caused by the device because of the noise it generates during operation and possible projections of floor covering.
  • the gas generator shown in Figure 7 is composed of a housing 25, preferably made of material composite such as thermoplastic or thermosetting resin loaded or not with carbon fibers and other materials.
  • This housing includes a priming member 26 contained in a case which contains powder 27 and a percussion primer 28, ignition laser or electric.
  • the housing 25 contains the powder propellant 31 which generates suddenly, by combustion after priming, the propellants of the piston 41 of the tool.
  • a keying pin 30 allows positioning correct generator in its case 10 for loading aid in the cylinder head 7.
  • a cover 29 has, depending on the generator model, a greater or lesser number of pre-embrittled cells 32 which, after shearing in the orifices 18 of plate 8, allow the calibrated passage of gases from propulsion as a function of the propellant powder mass 31.
  • the orifices are closed by a strip 71.
  • a seal seal 72 seals the primer against moisture penetration.
  • a locking spoiler 73 after molding keeps the primer in place.
  • a sticker 74 in rigid adhesive-coated foam protects the primer against untimely shocks.
  • a cable 22 for loading the heavy tools is equipped with a disengageable clamp at its end 23 and a support plate 24.
  • this cable is for example wound around a muffling pulley 24a and driven for example by a electric ascent motor.
  • the clamp 23 is mechanically disengageable under the effect of traction exercised by the tool on the wire, the functioning proceed as follows: the pressure generated in the launch tube 5 keeps the plate 24 in support on the bottom 4 of the launch tube 5 and pushing back the piston 41 of the tool, pulls on the wire 22, which makes open the clamp 23.
  • the clamp can also be provided pressure opening system, pressure sensitive gases in the launch tube 5.
  • the tool pyrotechnic projector can be fitted with a 40 measuring tube changes in tool speed.
  • the piston 41 of the tool (see figure 4) is then fitted with a magnet 44 and is rigidly connected to the probe rod 43 of a penetrometer dynamic.
  • the measuring tube 40 is equipped with solenoids 42 regularly distributed over its height and which allow time detection, preferably using a cathode-ray oscillograph, the passage of magnet 44.
  • the relative positions of the tube opening, the wicket 2 and its rotation hinge allow, when opening the flap 2, release the tube split measurement of a probe rod or tool incomplete pressed.
  • the pyrotechnic projection device can be equipped with a wide variety of tools.
  • a plate compactor tool 45 This tool consists of a launch tube 46 closed at its upper end and bearing at its end lower a compaction plate 47 reinforced by stiffeners 48, the plate can have a shape circular or polygonal.
  • Such a tool is used for compaction soils and especially embankments and trenches.
  • the very important energy that is communicated to the tool by the gas generator allows to quickly obtain very efficient compaction.
  • the pyrotechnic tool projection device can be fitted with a punch compactor 49 shown in Figure 9.
  • a punch compactor 49 shown in Figure 9.
  • Such a tool consists of a launch tube 50 inside hollow and extended by a compacting tube 51, preferably cylindrical and of same diameter or different diameter, and ended with a puncture aid tip 52.
  • the compacting tube or its tip may have a flat bottom
  • Such tool used to make holes with compacted walls.
  • the lift of the concrete studs is significantly improved by such compacted wall holes, for the same foundation volume.
  • the device for pyrotechnic propulsion can be fitted with a coring 53 shown in FIG. 10.
  • a coring 53 shown in FIG. 10.
  • Such a tool is consisting of a launch tube 54 closed at the top by a plug 55 with quick closing 56 and of which the opening allows the coring block to be ejected.
  • the launch tube 54 is preferably mounted in the tube core drilling, but a different diameter tube may extend the launch tube in order to carry out core drilling of diameter different from the caliber of the launch tube.
  • the core tube is terminated by a section cutting 57 or by an overhanging knife 58. Without going out of the invention, it can be equipped with different systems of carrot shearing aid equipping standard coring tubes.
  • Such a tool is used to realize soil analysis cores or holes preferably cylindrical, by taking the carrot from the ground.
  • the pyrotechnic tool projection device can be equipped with a tube intended for the burial of explosive or propellant charge 59, shown in Figure 11.
  • a tube 59 consists of a rod 60, preferably hollow, closed at the top and surrounded a tube 61 preferably made of plastic or in cardboard and terminated by a conical tip 62 to aid penetration, this tip preferably has a overflowing section.
  • the tube 60 is removed.
  • the outer tube 61 and the conical tip remain in the ground.
  • the channel thus created can be used to bury elements, materials or equipment other than pyrotechnic charges.
  • FIG. 12 a projector pyrotechnic intended to project into a road surface a hollow rod 37 closed at its lower end 39 and pierced with side holes 38.
  • a tool can serve, after being projected onto a road surface, resin or sealing concrete injection channel, cables or superstructures.
  • the pyrotechnic tool projection device can be fitted with a cable support rod tool 33 34 of grounding.
  • a cable support rod tool 33 34 of grounding Such a tool allows when the cable is pushed in, the guide rod has preferably an L or T profile but we can also use another profile.
  • the extra length of the cable 35 is preferably coiled in the piston head 36.
  • the pyrotechnic projection device can project tools or recoverable tools or consumables in the ground, in materials or structures such as walls, paving, cladding truckers, etc.
  • the trigger system 9a is fixed, on the cover or closure plate 15 and isolated therefrom, by means of four studs 75 forming a part with vents to evacuate gases from the trigger.
  • the closure plate 15 that you can slide in the two slides 16 of the cylinder head 7 using the operating handle 63, is locked in position during firing by a screw safety lug 64.
  • a safety sensor 65 of closing the plate 15 allows do not initiate firing by the electromagnet 12 acting on the striker 13 only if the plate 15 which carries the electromagnet 12, is correctly assembled and locked in position (by loosening the screw-lug assembly security 64).
  • This carrier 66 for transport and firing position of the tool projection device according to the present invention.
  • This carrier 66 includes a frame interface 67 for the frame 1, a jack 68 for setting rotation of the frame 1 for transport and for shooting, a tilt correction cylinder 69 and a rotation head 70.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Paleontology (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Agronomy & Crop Science (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Soil Sciences (AREA)
  • Automotive Seat Belt Assembly (AREA)
  • Feeding, Discharge, Calcimining, Fusing, And Gas-Generation Devices (AREA)
  • Dowels (AREA)
  • Portable Nailing Machines And Staplers (AREA)
  • Fluid-Damping Devices (AREA)
  • Surgical Instruments (AREA)
  • Air Bags (AREA)

Abstract

A pyrotechnic firing device for tools connected to a firing plunger movably mounted in a launch tube. The device consists of an inner barrel or frame (1), and a firing gas generator (9) housed in a modular breech (7) at one end of the launch tube (5) secured to a weight (3) which receives the recoil on the breech (7) during firing and is connected to one end of a damping cylinder (6) between the frame (1) and the weight (3). The device is useful as an easily adaptable and convertible firing device capable of being fitted with a wide variety of tools.

Description

La présente invention est relative à un dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils reliés à un piston de projection mobile à l'intérieur d'un tube de lancement. Plus particulièrement, la présente invention a pour objet un dispositif de projection pyrotechnique, inclus dans un système modulaire de projection pyrotechnique d'outils, utilisant l'énergie délivrée par un générateur de gaz et dont l'équilibrage du recul est assuré par l'effet de la gravité sur la structure de lancement. L'invention s'applique encore plus particulièrement à un matériel de projection pyrotechnique d'outils équipé d'un piston d'interface de projection à grande vitesse depuis un tube de lancement dans lequel se développe une pression de combustion créée par les gaz émis par un générateur de gaz à partir d'une poudre propulsive.The present invention relates to a device for pyrotechnic projection of tools connected to a piston mobile projection inside a launch tube. More particularly, the present invention relates to a pyrotechnic projection device, included in a modular pyrotechnic tool projection system, using the energy delivered by a gas generator and whose recoil balancing is ensured by the effect of gravity on the launch structure. The invention applies even more particularly to a material of pyrotechnic projection of tools fitted with a piston high speed projection interface from a tube launch in which a pressure of combustion created by the gases emitted by a generator gas from a propellant powder.

EP-A-0 389 375 décrit un système d'enfoncement d'ancrage dans le sol par utilisation de l'énergie délivrée par un générateur de gaz, système dont l'équilibrage de recul est assuré par l'effet de la gravité sur la structure de lancement qui agit en tant que protecteur acoustique.EP-A-0 389 375 describes a driving system anchoring in the ground by using the energy delivered by a gas generator, a system including balancing of recoil is ensured by the effect of gravity on the launch structure that acts as a protector acoustic.

Par ailleurs, EP-A-0 561 968 décrit un système de mesure des caractéristiques du sol par enfoncement d'une tige sonde dont la mise en vitesse est réalisée par l'énergie délivrée par un générateur de gaz et dont l'évolution de la vitesse de pénétration dans le sol est mesurée en continu par un ensemble électromagnétique.Furthermore, EP-A-0 561 968 describes a measurement system soil characteristics by driving in a probe rod which is brought into gear by the energy delivered by a gas generator and of which the evolution of the speed of penetration into the ground is continuously measured by an electromagnetic assembly.

Depuis la mise en oeuvre de ces systèmes d'enfoncement d'ancrage et de mesure des caractéristiques du sol, d'autres besoins du même type ont été exprimés par différents corps de métier du bâtiment et des travaux publics, en particulier des besoins relatifs au compactage, au carottage, au creusement de fondations ponctuelles, etc,.... Ces besoins exprimés ont fait apparaítre la nécessité d'améliorer encore la conception mécanique, l'adaptabilité, la conception des générateurs de gaz et leur modularité, la réduction des nuisances des gaz, le système de retombée de la structure de lancement et son amortissement ainsi que le système de chargement des outils lourds, tout en continuant à permettre d'équiper ces systèmes d'organes de mesure de la vitesse de pénétration dans le sol.Since the implementation of these driving systems anchoring and measuring soil characteristics, other needs of the same type have been expressed by different building trades and public works, in particular needs relating to compaction, coring, digging point foundations, etc, .... These expressed needs made appear the need further improve mechanical design, adaptability, design of gas generators and their modularity, the reduction of nuisance gases, the launch structure fallout system and its damping as well as the tool loading system heavy, while continuing to equip these penetration speed measurement systems in the ground.

Le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique selon la présente invention a précisément pour but de mieux satisfaire ces différents desiderata des utilisateurs.The pyrotechnic projection device according to the present invention precisely aims to better satisfy these different user wishes.

La présente invention a pour objet un dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'un outil, contenu à l'intérieur d'un fût ou bâti et constitué d'un générateur de gaz de projection, associé à un système de déclenchement ou d'initiation, placé dans une culasse modulaire reliée à un bec ou poignée de préhension, et fixée à une extrémité d'un tube de lancement solidaire d'une masse lest destinée à supporter l'effet de recul exercé sur la culasse au cours de la projection et qui est reliée à une de ses extrémités à un vérin amortisseur interposé entre le bâti et la masse lest pour amortir la retombée de cette masse lest après son recul.The present invention relates to a device for pyrotechnic projection of a tool, contained inside a barrel or frame made up of a gas generator projection, associated with a trigger system or initiation, placed in a modular cylinder head connected to a spout or grip, and fixed at one end a launch tube secured to a ballast mass intended to withstand the recoil effect exerted on the cylinder head at during the projection and which is connected to one of its ends to a damping cylinder interposed between the frame and the mass ballast to absorb the fallout of this mass ballast after its retreat.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention, le générateur de gaz placé dans la culasse et son système de déclenchement sont situés à l'extérieur et à une extrémité du tube de lancement qui reçoit l'outil à travers l'autre extrémité.According to another embodiment of the invention, the gas generator placed in the cylinder head and its trigger are located outside and at a end of the launch tube that receives the tool at across the other end.

Selon encore un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention, le tube de lancement comporte à son extrémité opposée au générateur de gaz, des évents latéraux d'éjection des gaz avant la sortie du piston de projection hors du tube de lancement, et ces évents débouchent dans une chambre annulaire ménagée entre la paroi extérieure du tube de lancement et un prolongement cylindrique du bâti entourant le tube de lancement.According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the launch tube has at its opposite end to the gas generator, side ejection vents gases before the projection piston leaves the launch tube, and these vents open into a annular chamber formed between the outer wall of the launch tube and a cylindrical extension of the frame surrounding the launch tube.

Selon un autre mode encore de réalisation de l'invention, le tube de lancement est équipé intérieurement d'un tube sous-calibré gigogne permettant l'emploi d'un piston de projection d'outils de plus petit diamètre. According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the launch tube is internally equipped with a sub-calibrated pull-out tube allowing the use of a piston projection of smaller diameter tools.

Selon encore un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention, le système de déclenchement du générateur de gaz est constitué d'un dispositif de percussion d'une amorce. Il est séparé de la culasse recevant le générateur de gaz par une pièce à évents apte à éjecter les gaz provenant des fuites au niveau de l'orifice de percussion; il est ainsi possible d'éviter l'encrassement du système de déclenchement.According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the triggering system of the generator gas consists of a percussion device of a primer. It is separated from the cylinder head receiving the gas generator by a vented part capable of ejecting gases from leaks at the orifice percussion; it is thus possible to avoid fouling of the trigger system.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation du dispositif de projection pyrotechnique selon l'invention, celui-ci comporte un organe de chargement de l'outil constitué d'un câble traversant axialement le tube de lancement et relié à une pince de préhension susceptible d'être déconnectée sous l'effet de la force de propulsion agissant sur le piston de projection de l'outil dans le tube de lancement et d'une plaque d'étanchéité servant d'élément d'appui et de butée lors de la remontée de l'outil dans le tube de lancement et servant à la commande de la libération de la pince.According to another embodiment of the device pyrotechnic projection according to the invention, this comprises a tool loading member consisting of a cable axially passing through the launch tube and connected to a gripper that can be disconnected under the effect of the propelling force acting on the tool projection piston in the launch tube and a sealing plate serving as a support element and stop when raising the tool in the tube launch and used to control the release of the pliers.

Le piston de projection est susceptible d'être relié rigidement ou d'être solidaire d'outils divers tels que compacteur à plateau, compacteur à poinçon, tube de carottage, tube d'enfouissement, injecteur, tige pénétromètre, tige porteuse de câble de terre.The projection piston can be connected rigidly or to be attached to various tools such as plate compactor, punch compactor, core tube, landfill tube, injector, penetrometer rod, earth cable carrying rod.

D'une manière générale et dans un souci de fiabilité et de sécurité, le générateur de gaz est placé dans une chambre de combustion et son système de lancement est situé de préférence en dehors du tube de lancement et hors de l'outil projeté ou de son piston de lancement.Generally and for the sake of reliability and safety, the gas generator is placed in a combustion chamber and its launch system is preferably located outside the launch tube and outside the projected tool or its launching piston.

La présence d'un boítier culasse modulaire permet, dans le même matériel, l'utilisation de générateurs de gaz de différents diamètres et donc de différentes masses de poudres propulsives qui sont adaptées à l'énergie nécessaire au bon fonctionnement de chaque outil. La poignée de préhension du boítier culasse modulaire facilite l'introduction et surtout l'extraction après fonctionnement du générateur de gaz dans sa chambre de combustion. The presence of a modular cylinder head allows, in the same material, the use of generators gases of different diameters and therefore of different masses propellant powders that are adapted to the energy required the proper functioning of each tool. The handle gripping of the modular cylinder head housing facilitates introduction and especially extraction after operation of the gas generator in its combustion chamber.

Le calibre du tube de lancement est adaptable au diamètre de l'outil projeté ou de son porte-outil grâce à l' introduction et au blocage en position de tubes de plus petit diamètre à l'intérieur du tube de lancement.The caliber of the launch tube is adaptable to the diameter the projected tool or its tool holder thanks to the introduction and locking in position of additional tubes small diameter inside the launch tube.

Afin de limiter les nuisances relatives dues principalement au bruit, les éventuelles projections de revêtement de sol et les efforts sur le portillon de fermeture du dispositif de projection nécessaire pour la sécurité, le tube de lancement est équipé d'évents latéraux qui permettent d'éjecter, après le passage du piston de l'outil, des gaz vers le haut dans la chambre annulaire qui constitue un silencieux à l'intérieur du bâti du dispositif selon l'invention.In order to limit the relative nuisances due mainly noise, possible projections of floor covering and efforts on the wicket closure of the projection device necessary for the safety, the launch tube is equipped with vents side which allow to eject, after the passage of the tool piston, gas up in chamber annular which constitutes a silencer inside the frame of the device according to the invention.

Le tube de lancement et sa structure de lest ou masse lest sont libres de reculer verticalement vers le haut et ce recul assure, sous l'effet de la gravité, l'équilibrage de la quantité de mouvement appliquée au piston et à l'outil projeté.The launch tube and its ballast or mass structure ballast are free to back up vertically and this decline ensures, under the effect of gravity, balancing the amount of movement applied to the piston and to the projected tool.

L'amortissement de la retombée du tube de lancement et de sa structure lest après un tir d'outil est assuré par un vérin à gaz synchronisé qui se déploit lorsque le tube de lancement recule et qui le rejoint ainsi au sommet de sa trajectoire verticale, et freine sa descente par transfert contrôlé des gaz entre les deux chambres du vérin à gaz.Damping the fallout of the launch tube and its ballast structure after a tool shot is assured by a synchronized gas spring which deploys when the launch tube moves back and thus joins it at the top of its vertical trajectory, and brakes its descent by controlled transfer of gases between the two chambers of the gas spring.

L'adaptation de la vitesse de montée du vérin, de la force de retenue appliquée sur le tube de lancement et sa structure lest et de la vitesse de retour du tube de lancement et de sa structure lest, est réalisée à l'aide d'évents calibrés à simple ou double passage et de la pression de gonflage du vérin.Adaptation of the jacking speed, the holding force applied to the launch tube and its ballast structure and return speed of the launch tube and its ballast structure, is made using calibrated single or double pass vents and cylinder inflation pressure.

Afin d'éviter les effets d'encrassement par les gaz issus du générateur de gaz, sur le système de percussion, le système de déclenchement par percussion est monté de préférence sur un ensemble de plots permettant aux gaz sortant du système de percussion et, le cas échéant, de la culasse, de se diriger vers l'extérieur du système - une membrane élastique d'étanchéité étant susceptible de compléter la protection du système de percussion.To avoid the effects of fouling by gases from the gas generator, on the percussion system, the percussion release system is mounted preferably on a set of studs allowing gases leaving the percussion system and, where applicable, the breech, to go outside the system - an elastic sealing membrane being capable of complete the protection of the percussion system.

Le chargement ou la mise en place des outils lourds est effectué selon l'invention à l'aide d'un câble qui traverse axialement le tube de lancement. Les dispositifs de projection, dans le cas d'outils lourds, sont équipés d'une chambre de combustion désaxée afin de permettre le passage du câble qui est de préférence enroulé sur un tambour à l'aide d'un moteur électrique. Le câble est équipé à son extrémité d'une pince qui est débrayable soit mécaniquement sous l'effet de la traction due à la pression des gaz, soit électriquement, soit sous l'effet de la pression créée dans le tube de lancement.Loading or placing heavy tools is carried out according to the invention using a cable which passes axially through the launch tube. The devices projection, in the case of heavy tools, are equipped an offset combustion chamber to allow the passage of the cable which is preferably wound on a drum using an electric motor. The cable is equipped at its end with a clip which is disengageable either mechanically under the effect of the traction due to the gas pressure, either electrically or under the effect of the pressure created in the launch tube.

Le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils selon l'invention peut être équipé d'un tube de mesure de la vitesse de projection de l'outil, un tube composite de mesure étant fixé sur une structure rigide en matériau composite amagnétique et non conducteur, afin de relier le tube de mesure au bâti du dispositif.The pyrotechnic tool projection device according to the invention can be fitted with a measuring tube the projection speed of the tool, a composite tube of measure being fixed on a rigid structure in material non-magnetic and non-conductive composite, in order to connect the measuring tube to the device frame.

Le système de projection pyrotechnique d'outils ainsi réalisé est de préférence monté sur un organe porteur à chenilles, mais, pour les petits modèles, il peut être monté sur un porteur à roues motorisé ou non ou à l'arrière d'un camion ou d'une camionnette ou même sur un wagon ferroviaire. Selon l'invention, un système d'attache rapide sur un bras d'engin de travaux publics, tel qu'une pelleteuse, permet de transformer le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique en un outil interchangeable avec les godets de la pelleteuse.The pyrotechnic tool projection system as well produced is preferably mounted on a carrier member to tracks, but, for small models, it can be mounted on a motorized or non-motorized wheeled carrier or the back of a truck or pickup or even on a railway wagon. According to the invention, a fastening system fast on an arm of public works machine, such that a backhoe, allows to transform the device pyrotechnic projection in an interchangeable tool with backhoe buckets.

Le système de projection pyrotechnique peut ainsi être chargé soit verticalement, soit horizontalement. La mise en position repliée pour le chargement ou pour le transport est réalisée de préférence par un système mécanique du type à roue et vis sans fin entraíné par un moteur électrique. Cependant, on peut appliquer d'autres systèmes de génération de mouvement, tels que des vérins et des moteurs hydrauliques, des roues et des chaínes de transmission. The pyrotechnic projection system can thus be loaded either vertically or horizontally. The folded position for loading or for transport is preferably carried out by a mechanical system of the wheel and worm type driven by a motor electric. However, other motion generation systems, such as cylinders and hydraulic motors, wheels and chains transmission.

D'autres buts, caractéristiques et avantages apparaítront à la lecture de la description de divers modes de réalisation de l'invention, faite à titre non limitatif et en regard des dessins annexés, dans lesquels:

la figure 1
représente en coupe axiale longitudinale, un dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils selon l'invention;
la figure 2
représente en coupe longitudinale à plus grande échelle, le sous-ensemble de chambre de combustion qui est associé au dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outil selon l'invention;
la figure 3
représente en vue éclatée, le sous-ensemble de chambre de combustion de la figure 2;
la figure 4
représente, en coupe axiale longitudinale, un autre mode de réalisation du dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils selon l'invention, dans lequel un outil constitué par une tige-sonde coopère avec un système de mesure de vitesse de pénétration;
la figure 5
représente, en coupe axiale longitudinale, un autre mode de réalisation du dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils selon l'invention, dans lequel un tube de réduction de calibre est monté à l'intérieur du tube de lancement;
la figure 6
représente une coupe à 90° du mode de réalisation de la figure 4;
la figure 7,
représente en coupe transversale, un autre mode de réalisation du générateur de gaz susceptible d'être utilisé dans le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique selon l'invention;
la figure 8
représente, en coupe axiale longitudinale, un autre mode de réalisation du dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils selon l'invention, dans lequel l'outil peut être mis en place à l'aide d'un filin axial de chargement;
les figures 9 à 13
représentent divers modes de réalisation des outils susceptibles d'être associés au dispositif de projection pyrotechnique selon l'invention; et
la figure 14
représente en élévation un véhicule chenillé de transport et de mise en place d'un système de projection d'outils utilisant le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique selon l'invention.
Other objects, characteristics and advantages will appear on reading the description of various embodiments of the invention, given without limitation and with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
figure 1
shows in longitudinal axial section, a device for pyrotechnic projection of tools according to the invention;
figure 2
shows in longitudinal section on a larger scale, the combustion chamber sub-assembly which is associated with the device pyrotechnic projection device according to the invention;
figure 3
shows in exploded view, the combustion chamber sub-assembly of Figure 2;
figure 4
shows, in longitudinal axial section, another embodiment of the device for pyrotechnic projection of tools according to the invention, in which a tool constituted by a probe rod cooperates with a penetration speed measurement system;
figure 5
shows, in longitudinal axial section, another embodiment of the pyrotechnic tool projection device according to the invention, in which a caliber reduction tube is mounted inside the launch tube;
figure 6
shows a 90 ° section of the embodiment of Figure 4;
Figure 7,
shows in cross section, another embodiment of the gas generator capable of being used in the pyrotechnic projection device according to the invention;
figure 8
shows, in longitudinal axial section, another embodiment of the device for pyrotechnic projection of tools according to the invention, in which the tool can be installed using an axial loading rope;
Figures 9 to 13
represent various embodiments of the tools capable of being associated with the pyrotechnic projection device according to the invention; and
figure 14
shows in elevation a tracked transport and installation vehicle for a tool projection system using the pyrotechnic projection device according to the invention.

En se reportant à la figure 1, on voit que le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils selon l'invention est monté à l'intérieur d'un bâti ou fût 1 de forme générale cylindrique équipé d'un portillon 2 permettant d'accéder à la partie de mise en place de l'outil. La structure de lancement montée à l'intérieur du bâti 1 est constitué d'une masse lest 3 qui sert d'élément de guidage de la structure de lancement dans le bâti lors du recul de celle-ci, d'un fond ou flasque 4 de la chambre de détente et du tube de lancement 5.Referring to Figure 1, we see that the device for pyrotechnic projection of tools according to the invention is mounted inside a frame or barrel 1 of form general cylindrical fitted with a gate 2 allowing to access the installation part of the tool. The launch structure mounted inside the frame 1 is consisting of a ballast mass 3 which serves as a guide element of the launch structure in the frame during the recoil of it, of a bottom or flange 4 of the chamber of trigger and launch tube 5.

Un vérin amortisseur 6, dans le présent cas un vérin à gaz, interposé entre le bâti 1 et la masse lest 3, se déploie lors de la remontée de la structure de lancement constituée principalement du tube de lancement 5 et de la masse lest 3 et fonctionne en amortisseur lors de la redescente de cette structure.A damping cylinder 6, in this case a cylinder gas, interposed between the frame 1 and the ballast mass 3, is deploys during the ascent of the launch structure mainly consisting of the launch tube 5 and the mass ballast 3 and works as a shock absorber during the descent of this structure.

Sur les figures 2, 3 et 6, l'ensemble de chambre de combustion recevant un générateur de gaz 9 est constitué d'une culasse 7 résistante à l'éclatement, d'une platine 8 percée d'orifices d'échappement 18 des gaz de combustion, d'un boítier formant enveloppe de chargement 10. La culasse 7 est fixée rigidement et de façon amovible et interchangeable, par exemple à l'aide de vis telles que 4a, 4b, au fond 4 de la chambre de détente 5a formée à l'intérieur du tube de lancement 5. Le boítier enveloppe 10 du générateur de gaz 9 placés dans la culasse 7 ainsi fixée extérieurement et de façon amovible au tube de lancement 5, permet à la fois l'utilisation de différents tubes de lancement 5 et de différents générateurs de gaz 9 et leur extraction et leur remplacement en s'aidant d'une poignée de préhension 11 en forme de bec.In Figures 2, 3 and 6, the chamber assembly combustion receiving a gas generator 9 is constituted a burst-resistant cylinder head 7, a plate 8 breakthrough exhaust ports 18 of the combustion, of a casing forming a loading envelope 10. The cylinder head 7 is fixed rigidly and so removable and interchangeable, for example using screws such as 4a, 4b, at the bottom 4 of the expansion chamber 5a formed inside the launch tube 5. The housing casing 10 of the gas generator 9 placed in the cylinder head 7 thus fixed externally and removably to the launch tube 5, allows both the use of different launch tubes 5 and different 9 gas generators and their extraction and their replacement using a grip handle 11 beak-shaped.

On va maintenant décrire le fonctionnement du dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils en relation avec les figures 1 à 4. Le bâti 1 étant placé verticalement en position de tir, par exemple à l'aide du véhicule chenillé représenté à la figure 14, l'outil utilisé, par exemple le pénétromètre 43 représenté à la figure 4, est introduit dans le tube de lancement 5 après ouverture du portillon 2. Le piston 41 de l'outil vient alors coulisser dans le tube de lancement 5 en direction de la plaque de fond 4 jusqu'à ce que la bague élastique 19 portée par le tube de lancement 5 vienne s'engager simultanément dans une gorge annulaire 41a du piston 41 de l'outil et dans la gorge 20 du tube 5.We will now describe the operation of the device of pyrotechnic projection of related tools with Figures 1 to 4. The frame 1 being placed vertically in the firing position, for example using the vehicle tracked represented in figure 14, the tool used, by example the penetrometer 43 represented in FIG. 4, is introduced into the launch tube 5 after opening the door 2. The piston 41 of the tool then slides in the launch tube 5 towards the plate bottom 4 until the elastic ring 19 carried by the launch tube 5 comes to engage simultaneously in an annular groove 41a of the piston 41 of the tool and in the groove 20 of the tube 5.

Afin d'équiper la culasse 7 de son générateur de gaz, on retire par coulissement le couvercle 15, ce qui permet d'introduire dans le logement de la culasse 7 la charge propulsive 9 entourée de son boítier 10 en la tenant par la poignée 11, puis après remise en place du couvercle 15, de verrouiller rigidement en position ce générateur de gaz avec son système d'amorcage 26 (voir la figure 7) placé en face du percuteur 13.In order to equip the cylinder head 7 with its gas generator, the cover 15 is removed by sliding, which allows introduce the charge into the cylinder head housing 7 propellant 9 surrounded by its casing 10 while holding it by handle 11, then after replacing the cover 15, to rigidly lock this generator in position gas with its ignition system 26 (see Figure 7) placed opposite the striker 13.

Après avoir éventuellement à nouveau vérifié la verticalité du tube de lancement 5, et la bonne orientation de l'outil vers l'emplacement de tir, on peut procéder au tir, par exemple par rotation d'une clé dans un boítier de mise à feu. La poudre propulsive 31 est allumée par l'amorce 28 et la poudre d'allumage 27; elle brûle très rapidement en créant beaucoup de gaz qui génère une pression élevée dans la chambre 5a du tube de lancement 5. Cette pression propulse, d'une part à grande vitesse vers le bas, le piston 41 et l'outil qui lui est attaché et, d'autre part vers le haut, la culasse 7 ainsi que le tube de lancement 5 et la masse lest 3. L'outil, par exemple le pénétromètre 43, s'enfonce dans le sol tandis que l'ensemble du tube de lancement et des masses lests 3 s'élève de quelques décimètres vers le haut, en étant freiné par l'effet de la gravité; elles retombent en position ou en batterie freinées par le vérin à gaz 6.After possibly checking the verticality again the launch tube 5, and the correct orientation from the tool to the firing location, you can proceed shooting, for example by rotation of a key in a case firing. The propellant powder 31 is ignited by the primer 28 and the ignition powder 27; she burns very quickly by creating a lot of gas which generates a high pressure in chamber 5a of the launch tube 5. This pressure propels, on the one hand at high speed downwards, the piston 41 and the tool attached to it and, on the other hand upwards, the cylinder head 7 as well as the launch tube 5 and ballast mass 3. The tool, by example the penetrometer 43, sinks into the ground while that the whole launch tube and ballast weights 3 rises a few decimeters upwards, being held back by the effect of gravity; they fall back into position or in battery braked by the gas spring 6.

Les gaz brulés du générateur de gaz 9 s'échappent partiellement dans l'espace annulaire 1a après passage du piston 41 au-delà des évents 17 (voir les figures 1, 4 et 5) et partiellement vers le bas à la suite du piston 41, en continuant à propulser ce dernier pendant quelques centimètres.The burnt gases from the gas generator 9 escape partially in the annular space 1a after passage of the piston 41 beyond the vents 17 (see Figures 1, 4 and 5) and partially downwards following the piston 41, continuing to propel it for a few centimeters.

Le dispositif de projection peut ensuite être mis en place au-dessus d'un nouvel emplacement de tir, le cas échéant en utilisant un outil d'un autre type, un tube de lancement d'un autre diamètre et des charges propulsives différentes.The projection device can then be put on place over a new shooting location, if if necessary using a tool of another type, a tube of launch of another diameter and propellant charges different.

Comme on le voit sur les figures 1, 4 et 5, le tube de lancement 5 présente intérieurement, à proximité du fond 4 du tube de lancement en laissant un espace suffisant pour le piston 41, une gorge 20 dans laquelle est monté un anneau élastique polygonal ou circulaire 19 de blocage du piston 41 de l'outil à lancer (voir également la figure 2).As seen in Figures 1, 4 and 5, the tube launch 5 internally, near the bottom 4 of the launch tube, leaving sufficient space for the piston 41, a groove 20 in which is mounted a polygonal or circular elastic ring 19 of locking of piston 41 of the tool to be launched (see also Figure 2).

Le tube de lancement 5 peut recevoir (comme représenté à la figure 5) des tubes de lancement 21 de diamètres plus faibles adaptés à l'éjection d'outils ou de porte-outils de plus petits diamètres.The launch tube 5 can receive (as shown in FIG. 5) launching tubes 21 with diameters lower suitable for ejecting tools or tool holders with smaller diameters.

Le système de déclenchement 9a du générateur de gaz pyrotechnique 9 est de préférence réalisé par percussion à l'aide d'un électro-aimant 12 équipé d'un percuteur fixe ou réglable 13. La liaison électrique 14 entre l'électro-aimant 12 et une source d'énergie, est réalisée par un fil spiralé extensible. L'électro-aimant peut être remplacé par un autre système de percussion tel qu'un vérin pneumatique, un ensemble ressort-vérin hydraulique, un ressort bandé manuellement ou par un moteur électrique. Dans le cas où l'allumage du générateur de gaz est réalisé au laser ou par voie électrique, l'électro-aimant est remplacé par une source laser ou de façon correspondante par un déclencheur électrique susceptible d'être relié à une source électrique telle qu'une batterie. Une plaque de couvercle 15 portant le percuteur 13 vient fermer vers le haut la culasse 7, par exemple par simple translation dans des rainures 16 (voir la figure 3). La culasse 7 constitue ainsi un sous-ensemble rigide et interchangeable fixé extérieurement et de façon amovible à une extrémité (flasque 4) du tube de lancement 5.The trigger system 9a of the gas generator pyrotechnic 9 is preferably made by percussion using an electromagnet 12 fitted with a striker fixed or adjustable 13. The electrical connection 14 between the electromagnet 12 and a power source, is made with an extensible spiral wire. The electromagnet can be replaced by another percussion system such a pneumatic cylinder, a spring-cylinder assembly hydraulic, a spring bandaged manually or by a electric motor. If the ignition of the gas generator is produced by laser or channel electric, the electromagnet is replaced by a source laser or correspondingly by an electric trigger likely to be connected to an electrical source such as a battery. A cover plate 15 bearing the striker 13 closes the breech 7 upwards, for example by simple translation in grooves 16 (see figure 3). The cylinder head 7 thus constitutes a subset rigid and interchangeable fixed externally and removably at one end (flange 4) of the tube launch 5.

Des évents 17 réalisés dans le tube de lancement 5 à proximité de l'extrémité de ce tube qui est opposée au générateur de gaz 9, permettent aux gaz de propulsion de s'échapper vers le haut, avant la sortie du piston 41 de l'outil hors du tube de lancement 5. Pour cela, les évents 17 débouchent dans une chambre annulaire 1a qui est délimitée principalement entre un prolongement cylindrique 1b du bâti 1 et la paroi extérieure du tube de lancement 5. On obtient ainsi un tube d'échappement des gaz de propulsion vers le haut qui permet de supprimer ou tout au moins de réduire de façon importante les nuisances susceptibles d'être provoquées par le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique du fait du bruit qu'il génère en cours de fonctionnement et d'éventuelles projections de revêtement du sol.Vents 17 made in the launch tube 5 to near the end of this tube which is opposite to the gas generator 9, allow propulsion gases to escape upwards, before the piston 41 exits the tool outside the launch tube 5. For this, the vents 17 open into an annular chamber 1a which is mainly delimited between a cylindrical extension 1b of the frame 1 and the outer wall of the tube launch 5. This produces an exhaust pipe upward propellant which suppresses or at least significantly reduce the nuisance likely to be caused by the device because of the noise it generates during operation and possible projections of floor covering.

Le générateur de gaz représenté sur la figure 7 est composé d'un boítier 25, de préférence réalisé en matériau composite tel que résine thermoplastique ou thermodurcissable chargée ou non de fibres de carbone et autres matériaux. Ce boítier comporte un organe d'amorçage 26 contenu dans un étui qui renferme de la poudre d'allumage 27 et une amorce à percussion 28, à allumage laser ou électrique. Le boítier 25 renferme la poudre propulsive 31 qui génère brutalement, par combustion après amorçage, les gaz propulseurs du piston 41 de l'outil. Un ergot détrompeur 30 permet le positionnement correct du générateur dans son boítier 10 d'aide au chargement dans la culasse 7.The gas generator shown in Figure 7 is composed of a housing 25, preferably made of material composite such as thermoplastic or thermosetting resin loaded or not with carbon fibers and other materials. This housing includes a priming member 26 contained in a case which contains powder 27 and a percussion primer 28, ignition laser or electric. The housing 25 contains the powder propellant 31 which generates suddenly, by combustion after priming, the propellants of the piston 41 of the tool. A keying pin 30 allows positioning correct generator in its case 10 for loading aid in the cylinder head 7.

Un couvercle 29 présente, selon le modèle de générateur, un nombre plus ou moins grand d'alvéoles pré-fragilisées 32 qui, après cisaillement dans les orifices 18 de la platine 8, permettent le passage calibré des gaz de propulsion en fonction de la masse de poudre propulsive 31. A cover 29 has, depending on the generator model, a greater or lesser number of pre-embrittled cells 32 which, after shearing in the orifices 18 of plate 8, allow the calibrated passage of gases from propulsion as a function of the propellant powder mass 31.

Les orifices sont obturés par un listel 71. Un joint d'étanchéité 72 assure l'étanchéité de l'amorce à l'égard de toute pénétration d'humidité. Un béquet de blocage 73 issu du moulage maintient l'amorce en place. Une gommette 74 en mousse rigide adhésivisée protége l'amorce contre les chocs intempestifs.The orifices are closed by a strip 71. A seal seal 72 seals the primer against moisture penetration. A locking spoiler 73 after molding keeps the primer in place. A sticker 74 in rigid adhesive-coated foam protects the primer against untimely shocks.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention représenté sur la figure 8, un câble 22 de chargement des outils lourds est équipé à son extrémité d'une pince débrayable 23 et d'une plaque d'appui 24. Pour la remontée de l'outil, ce câble est par exemple enroulé autour d'une poulie de moufflage 24a et entraíné par exemple par un moteur électrique de remontée. Dans le cas où la pince 23 est débrayable mécaniquement sous l'effet de la traction exercée par l'outil sur le fil, le fonctionnement s'effectue de la manière suivante: la pression générée dans le tube de lancement 5 maintient la plaque 24 en appui sur le fond 4 du tube de lancement 5 et en repoussant le piston 41 de l'outil, tire sur le fil 22, ce qui fait ouvrir la pince 23. La pince peut également être munie d'un système d'ouverture à pression, sensible à la pression des gaz dans le tube de lancement 5.According to another embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 8, a cable 22 for loading the heavy tools is equipped with a disengageable clamp at its end 23 and a support plate 24. For the ascent of the tool, this cable is for example wound around a muffling pulley 24a and driven for example by a electric ascent motor. In the case where the clamp 23 is mechanically disengageable under the effect of traction exercised by the tool on the wire, the functioning proceed as follows: the pressure generated in the launch tube 5 keeps the plate 24 in support on the bottom 4 of the launch tube 5 and pushing back the piston 41 of the tool, pulls on the wire 22, which makes open the clamp 23. The clamp can also be provided pressure opening system, pressure sensitive gases in the launch tube 5.

Selon l'invention, le projecteur pyrotechnique d'outils peut être équipé d'un tube de mesure 40 de l'évolution de la vitesse de l'outil. Le piston 41 de l'outil (voir la figure 4) est alors équipé d'un aimant 44 et est relié rigidement à la tige sonde 43 d'un pénétromètre dynamique. Le tube de mesure 40 est équipé de solénoïdes 42 régulièrement répartis sur sa hauteur et qui permettent de détecter temporellement, de préférence à l'aide d'un oscillographe cathodique, le passage de l'aimant 44.According to the invention, the tool pyrotechnic projector can be fitted with a 40 measuring tube changes in tool speed. The piston 41 of the tool (see figure 4) is then fitted with a magnet 44 and is rigidly connected to the probe rod 43 of a penetrometer dynamic. The measuring tube 40 is equipped with solenoids 42 regularly distributed over its height and which allow time detection, preferably using a cathode-ray oscillograph, the passage of magnet 44.

Les positions relatives de l'ouverture du tube, du portillon 2 et de sa charnière de rotation permettent, lors de l'ouverture du portillon 2, de dégager le tube de mesure fendu d'une tige sonde ou d'un outil incomplètement enfoncé. The relative positions of the tube opening, the wicket 2 and its rotation hinge allow, when opening the flap 2, release the tube split measurement of a probe rod or tool incomplete pressed.

Le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique selon l'invention peut être équipé d'une grande variété d'outils. Dans le mode de réalisation représenté à la figure 8, on a représenté par exemple un outil compacteur à plateau 45. Cet outil est constitué d'un tube de lancement 46 fermé à son extrémité supérieure et portant à son extrémité inférieure un plateau de compactage 47 renforcé par des raidisseurs 48, le plateau peut présenter une forme circulaire ou polygonale. Un tel outil sert au compactage des sols et particulièrement des remblais et des tranchées. L'énergie très importante qui est communiquée à l'outil par le générateur de gaz permet d'obtenir rapidement un compactage très efficace.The pyrotechnic projection device according to the invention can be equipped with a wide variety of tools. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, we has shown for example a plate compactor tool 45. This tool consists of a launch tube 46 closed at its upper end and bearing at its end lower a compaction plate 47 reinforced by stiffeners 48, the plate can have a shape circular or polygonal. Such a tool is used for compaction soils and especially embankments and trenches. The very important energy that is communicated to the tool by the gas generator allows to quickly obtain very efficient compaction.

Le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outil peut être équipé d'un outil compacteur à poinçon 49 représenté à la figure 9. Un tel outil est constitué d'un tube de lancement 50 à l'intérieur creux et prolongé par un tube de compactage 51, de préférence cylindrique et de même diamètre ou de diamètre différent, et terminé par une pointe d'aide à la perforation 52. Le tube de compactage ou sa pointe peuvent présenter un fond plat Un tel outil sert à réaliser des trous dont les parois sont compactées. Dans le cas où on réalise des fondations ponctuelles en béton, la portance des plots en béton est significativement améliorée par de tels trous à parois compactées, pour un même volume de fondation.The pyrotechnic tool projection device can be fitted with a punch compactor 49 shown in Figure 9. Such a tool consists of a launch tube 50 inside hollow and extended by a compacting tube 51, preferably cylindrical and of same diameter or different diameter, and ended with a puncture aid tip 52. The compacting tube or its tip may have a flat bottom Such tool used to make holes with compacted walls. In the case where one-off foundations are made in concrete, the lift of the concrete studs is significantly improved by such compacted wall holes, for the same foundation volume.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation, le dispositif de propulsion pyrotechnique peut être équipé d'un tube de carottage 53 représenté à la figure 10. Un tel outil est constitué d'un tube de lancement 54 fermé à la partie supérieure par un bouchon 55 à fermeture rapide 56 et dont l'ouverture permet l'éjection du bloc de carottage. Le tube de lancement 54 est monté de préférence dans le tube de carottage, mais un tube de diamètre différent peut prolonger le tube de lancement afin de réaliser des carottages de diamètre différent du calibre du tube de lancement. Le tube de carottage est terminé par une section de coupe 57 ou par un couteau débordant 58. Sans sortir de l'invention, il peut être équipé de différents systèmes d'aide au cisaillement de la carotte équipant les tubes de carottage standard. Un tel outil sert à réaliser les carottages d'analyse du sol ou des trous de préférence cylindriques, par prélèvement de la carotte du sol.According to another embodiment, the device for pyrotechnic propulsion can be fitted with a coring 53 shown in FIG. 10. Such a tool is consisting of a launch tube 54 closed at the top by a plug 55 with quick closing 56 and of which the opening allows the coring block to be ejected. The launch tube 54 is preferably mounted in the tube core drilling, but a different diameter tube may extend the launch tube in order to carry out core drilling of diameter different from the caliber of the launch tube. The core tube is terminated by a section cutting 57 or by an overhanging knife 58. Without going out of the invention, it can be equipped with different systems of carrot shearing aid equipping standard coring tubes. Such a tool is used to realize soil analysis cores or holes preferably cylindrical, by taking the carrot from the ground.

Le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils peut être équipé d'un tube destiné à l'enfouissement de charge explosive ou propulsive 59, représenté à la figure 11. Un tel tube 59 est constitué d'une tige 60, de préférence creuse, fermée à sa partie supérieure et entourée d'un tube 61 réalisé de préférence en matière plastique ou en carton et terminé par un embout conique 62 d'aide à la pénétration, cet embout présente de préférence une section débordante. Après la pénétration dans le sol de l'embout conique, on retire le tube 60. Le tube extérieur 61 et l'embout conique restent dans le sol. On introduit une charge pyrotechnique dans le canal qui a été rendu libre par l'extraction de la tige 60. Le canal ainsi créé peut être utilisé pour enfouir des éléments, matières ou équipements autres que des charges pyrotechniques.The pyrotechnic tool projection device can be equipped with a tube intended for the burial of explosive or propellant charge 59, shown in Figure 11. Such a tube 59 consists of a rod 60, preferably hollow, closed at the top and surrounded a tube 61 preferably made of plastic or in cardboard and terminated by a conical tip 62 to aid penetration, this tip preferably has a overflowing section. After entering the soil of the conical end piece, the tube 60 is removed. The outer tube 61 and the conical tip remain in the ground. We introduce a pyrotechnic charge in the channel that has been returned free by the extraction of the rod 60. The channel thus created can be used to bury elements, materials or equipment other than pyrotechnic charges.

Pour illustrer des applications réalisables à l'aide du dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils selon l'invention, on a représenté à la figure 12 un projecteur pyrotechnique destiné à projeter dans un revêtement routier une tige creuse 37 fermée à son extrémité inférieure 39 et percée d'orifices latéraux 38. Un tel outil peut servir, après sa projection dans un revêtement routier, de canal d'injection de résine ou de béton de scellement, de câbles ou de superstructures.To illustrate practical applications using of the pyrotechnic tool projection device according to the invention, there is shown in Figure 12 a projector pyrotechnic intended to project into a road surface a hollow rod 37 closed at its lower end 39 and pierced with side holes 38. Such a tool can serve, after being projected onto a road surface, resin or sealing concrete injection channel, cables or superstructures.

Le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique d'outils peut être équipé d'un outil-tige 33 de support de câblette 34 de mise à la terre. Un tel outil permet l'enfoncement de la câblette, la tige guide présente de préférence un profil en L ou en T mais on peut également utiliser un autre profil. La surlongueur de liaison de la câblette 35 est de préférence lovée dans la tête de piston 36. The pyrotechnic tool projection device can be fitted with a cable support rod tool 33 34 of grounding. Such a tool allows when the cable is pushed in, the guide rod has preferably an L or T profile but we can also use another profile. The extra length of the cable 35 is preferably coiled in the piston head 36.

Le dispositif de projection pyrotechnique selon l'invention peut projeter des outils ou des outils récupérables ou consommables dans le sol, dans des matériaux ou des structures tels que de murs, des dallages, des revêtements routiers, etc.The pyrotechnic projection device according to the invention can project tools or recoverable tools or consumables in the ground, in materials or structures such as walls, paving, cladding truckers, etc.

Le sous-ensemble constitué par le générateur de gaz 9 et son système de déclenchement 9a, tel que représenté sur la figure 6, est fixé de façon aisément amovible à la culasse 7 elle-même fixée par des vis 4a, 4b à la plaque de fond ou flasque 4 (non représenté) du tube de lancement 5. Le système de déclenchement 9a est fixé, sur la plaque de couvercle ou de fermeture 15 et isolé de celle-ci, par l'intermédiaire de quatre plots 75 formant pièce à évents pour évacuer les gaz du système de déclenchement. On voit, en coopération avec la vue éclatée de la figure 3 que la plaque de fermeture 15 que l'on peut faire coulisser dans les deux glissières 16 de la culasse 7 à l'aide de la poignée de manoeuvre 63, est verrouillée en position pendant le tir par une vis à ergot de sécurité 64. Un capteur de sécurité 65 de fermeture de la plaque 15 (tiroir de culasse) permet de n'engager le déclenchement du tir par l'électro-aimant 12 agissant sur le percuteur 13 que si la plaque 15 qui porte l'électro-aimant 12, est bien montée et verrouillée en position (par le relâchement de l'ensemble vis-ergot de sécurité 64).The sub-assembly constituted by the gas generator 9 and its trigger system 9a, as shown in Figure 6, is easily detachably attached to the cylinder head 7 itself fixed by screws 4a, 4b to the plate bottom or flange 4 (not shown) of the launch tube 5. The trigger system 9a is fixed, on the cover or closure plate 15 and isolated therefrom, by means of four studs 75 forming a part with vents to evacuate gases from the trigger. We see, in cooperation with the view exploded view of Figure 3 that the closure plate 15 that you can slide in the two slides 16 of the cylinder head 7 using the operating handle 63, is locked in position during firing by a screw safety lug 64. A safety sensor 65 of closing the plate 15 (cylinder head drawer) allows do not initiate firing by the electromagnet 12 acting on the striker 13 only if the plate 15 which carries the electromagnet 12, is correctly assembled and locked in position (by loosening the screw-lug assembly security 64).

On a représenté sur la figure 14 un engin porteur 66 pour le transport et la mise en position de tir du dispositif de projection d'outils selon la présente invention. Cet engin porteur 66 comprend un bâti d'interface 67 pour le bâti 1, un vérin 68 de mise en rotation du bâti 1 pour le transport et pour le tir, un vérin correcteur de dévers 69 et une tête de rotation 70.There is shown in Figure 14 a carrier 66 for transport and firing position of the tool projection device according to the present invention. This carrier 66 includes a frame interface 67 for the frame 1, a jack 68 for setting rotation of the frame 1 for transport and for shooting, a tilt correction cylinder 69 and a rotation head 70.

Bien entendu, la présente invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisation décrits et représentés, mais elle est susceptible de nombreuses variantes accessibles à l'homme de l'art, sans que l'on ne s'écarte de l'esprit de l'invention.Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown, but it is susceptible to numerous accessible variants to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims (7)

  1. A pyrotechnic tool(s) driving device linked to a driving piston (41) movable inside a launching tube (5), characterized in that it is contained inside a barrel or frame (1), and comprises a propulsive gas generator (9), associated with an igniter system (9a), situated inside a breech (7) fixed to one end of a launching tube (5) rigidly fixed to a ballasting mass (3) designed to counteract a recoil force exercised on said breech (7) during firing, and which is linked at one of its ends to damping cylinder means (6) inserted between said frame (1) and said ballasting mass (3), for damping the fall of said ballasting mass after recoil.
  2. A pyrotechnic tool(s) driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that said propulsive gas generator (9) and said igniter system (9a) for said gas generator constitute an externally mounted and easily removed subassembly that is fixed to said chamber (7) at one end of said launching tube (5), the tool being introduced into said launching tube through the other end thereof.
  3. A pyrotechnic tool(s) driving device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said launching tube (5) carries, at the end thereof remote from said gas generator (9), lateral venting holes (17) for gas ejection prior to complete exit of a driving piston (41) from said launching tube (5), and in that said venting passages discharge into an annular chamber (1a) provided between the outer wall of said launching tube (5) and a cylindrical extension (1a) of said frame (1) surrounding said launching tube (5).
  4. A pyrotechnic tool(s) driving device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said launching tube (5) is internally fitted with a matching tube (21) of smaller internal dimensions, enabling a tools(s) driving piston (41) of smaller diameter to be employed.
  5. A pyrotechnic tool(s) driving device according to any one of claim 1 to 4, characterized in that the igniter device (9a) operates by striking a primer (28) of an ignition gas generator, said igniter device being separated from the breech (7) receiving said propulsive gas generator (9) and being isolated therefrom by a vents part (75) adapted to eject gases formed by the igniter system.
  6. A pyrotechnic tool(s) driving device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it includes a tool loading member, said member comprising a cable (22) passing axially through said launching tube (5) and linked to a grasping clamp (23) able to be released under the effect of the propulsive force acting on a piston (41) driving the tool inside said launching tube (5) and a sealing plate (24) acting as a bearing and abutment member upon upward movement of the tool within said launching tube (5), and upon control of release of said clamp (23).
  7. A pyrotechnic tool(s) driving device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said tool may comprise among others one of various tools such as a flat plate compactor (45), a spiked compactor (49), a core section sampling tube (53), a tube for burying objects in the earth (59), an injector (37), a penetration-measuring device (43), and an earthing or grounding cable rod (33).
EP95926425A 1994-07-26 1995-07-25 Pyrotechnic tool firing device Expired - Lifetime EP0774025B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9409340 1994-07-26
FR9409340A FR2723115B1 (en) 1994-07-26 1994-07-26 PYROTECHNICAL TOOL PROJECTOR
PCT/FR1995/000998 WO1996003549A1 (en) 1994-07-26 1995-07-25 Pyrotechnic tool firing device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0774025A1 EP0774025A1 (en) 1997-05-21
EP0774025B1 true EP0774025B1 (en) 1998-12-23

Family

ID=9465830

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP95926425A Expired - Lifetime EP0774025B1 (en) 1994-07-26 1995-07-25 Pyrotechnic tool firing device

Country Status (8)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0774025B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE174985T1 (en)
AU (1) AU3082295A (en)
CA (1) CA2195803A1 (en)
DE (1) DE69506880T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2128751T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2723115B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1996003549A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN101443646B (en) * 2006-05-16 2012-10-10 朗讯科技公司 Shock and launch apparatus

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2407296A1 (en) * 1977-10-27 1979-05-25 Rech Etudes Tech METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MAKING VERTICAL HOLES IN THE GROUND, IN PARTICULAR WITH A VIEW OF THE SUBSEQUENT PLANTING OF POLES, STAKES OR THE LIKE
DE3167401D1 (en) * 1980-05-05 1985-01-10 Travocean Sarl Pyrotechnic device for anchoring piles or similar objects in the soil
FR2644811B1 (en) * 1989-03-23 1991-05-24 Castagner Bernard PYROTECHNIC SYSTEM FOR PUSHING GROUND ANCHORS

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN101443646B (en) * 2006-05-16 2012-10-10 朗讯科技公司 Shock and launch apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU3082295A (en) 1996-02-22
DE69506880T2 (en) 1999-08-19
FR2723115A1 (en) 1996-02-02
WO1996003549A1 (en) 1996-02-08
ATE174985T1 (en) 1999-01-15
ES2128751T3 (en) 1999-05-16
CA2195803A1 (en) 1996-02-08
DE69506880D1 (en) 1999-02-04
EP0774025A1 (en) 1997-05-21
FR2723115B1 (en) 1996-12-06

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0389375B1 (en) System for driving anchors into the ground
EP0151060B1 (en) Device for generating, by percussion, acoustic impulses inside a borehole
EP0334752B1 (en) Improved apparatus for generation of acoustic waves by a percussion mass hitting a plate connected to the borehole wall
CA1054808A (en) Device for the burial of very long flexible elements
EP0774025B1 (en) Pyrotechnic tool firing device
FR2472195A1 (en) APPARATUS FOR GENERATING ACOUSTIC PULSE IN A MEDIUM
WO2002096517A1 (en) Device for exerting pressure on a door or any other vertical planar surface
EP0039654B1 (en) Pyrotechnic device for anchoring piles or similar objects in the soil
CA1033048A (en) Implosion sound wave generating device
EP0136236B1 (en) Seismic puls generating apparatus in a bore hole by mass dropping
CA1318846C (en) Energy collection method in a single point of a drilling well by pulling of a massive column
EP0308321A1 (en) Fastening for use under water
FR2492088A1 (en) TRAINING SIMULATOR LOADING A CANON
FR2519132A1 (en) DEVICE FOR SUPPLYING AN ARM IN AMMUNITION
EP0242262A1 (en) Device for generating acoustic waves by percussion of a mass falling onto a target anchored in a borehole
CA1136258A (en) Device for implosion injection of sound waves in a liquid medium
US5913252A (en) Pyrotechnic tool driving device
EP0262037A1 (en) System for ejecting by means of a liquid-propellant charge a projectile placed in a launching tube
EP0018870B1 (en) Nailing tool including a percussion bolt
FR2678073A1 (en) Percussion source of elastic waves for well
CN116356796A (en) Quick freezing solidification processing device of long-range silence ground in beach area
FR2757443A1 (en) Compactor for compressible materials, e.g. domestic or industrial waste
FR2986611A1 (en) PNEUMATIC LAUNCH DEVICE
FR2664373A1 (en) Missile launcher with ejection shoe
FR2829585A1 (en) Seismic impacter for seismic ground measurements, detonates explosive charge in housing by releasing percussion striker sliding in tube hinged to housing

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19970226

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19971117

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19981223

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19981223

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19981223

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 174985

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19990115

Kind code of ref document: T

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 69506880

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19990204

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: FRENCH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: PATMED AG

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 19990203

ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed

Owner name: MODIANO & ASSOCIATI S.R.L.

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19990323

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19990323

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19990323

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2128751

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

NLV1 Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19990725

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19990725

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19990725

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19990726

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19990731

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19990731

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20000131

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 19990725

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20000615

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20010126

Year of fee payment: 6

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 20010126

Year of fee payment: 6

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20010731

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: CASTAGNER BERNARD

Effective date: 20010731

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20020329

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20030201

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20000810

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES;WARNING: LAPSES OF ITALIAN PATENTS WITH EFFECTIVE DATE BEFORE 2007 MAY HAVE OCCURRED AT ANY TIME BEFORE 2007. THE CORRECT EFFECTIVE DATE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THE ONE RECORDED.

Effective date: 20050725