EP1848909A1 - Conduit having a variable rigidity - Google Patents
Conduit having a variable rigidityInfo
- Publication number
- EP1848909A1 EP1848909A1 EP06709114A EP06709114A EP1848909A1 EP 1848909 A1 EP1848909 A1 EP 1848909A1 EP 06709114 A EP06709114 A EP 06709114A EP 06709114 A EP06709114 A EP 06709114A EP 1848909 A1 EP1848909 A1 EP 1848909A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- pipe
- sheath
- modules
- actuator
- clamping
- 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.)
- Withdrawn
Links
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- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 16
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- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000008014 freezing Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000001960 triggered effect Effects 0.000 claims 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 23
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- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920001903 high density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004700 high-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000344 soap Substances 0.000 description 2
- -1 Polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- DHKHKXVYLBGOIT-UHFFFAOYSA-N acetaldehyde Diethyl Acetal Natural products CCOC(C)OCC DHKHKXVYLBGOIT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 125000002777 acetyl group Chemical class [H]C([H])([H])C(*)=O 0.000 description 1
- 230000016571 aggressive behavior Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
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- 238000002594 fluoroscopy Methods 0.000 description 1
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- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000000149 penetrating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007747 plating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001737 promoting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L11/00—Hoses, i.e. flexible pipes
- F16L11/14—Hoses, i.e. flexible pipes made of rigid material, e.g. metal or hard plastics
- F16L11/18—Articulated hoses, e.g. composed of a series of rings
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
- E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
- E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
- E03C1/06—Devices for suspending or supporting the supply pipe or supply hose of a shower-bath
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a flexible pipe adapted in particular for the transport of liquid or gaseous fluids or pulverulent materials, said pipe comprising a clamping device to reduce its flexibility until it can stiffen and freeze, and vice versa, depending on requirements inherent in the use of said conduit.
- the invention also relates to an actuator for a variable rigid rigidity.
- the conduct of the invention may be used for a variety of purposes such as, for example, a shower hose, a fire hose, a garden hose or any other application for transporting liquid or gaseous fluids, as well as a hose for Protection and direction of optical fibers or CCD cameras for medical or telecommunication applications.
- Pipes and pipes of all kinds have been known for a long time, suitable for the transport of liquid or gaseous fluids or even powdery products.
- These pipes and hoses can be, according to their uses as well as their lengths and diameters, flexible or not, the pipes and hoses being generally of relatively small diameter (up to about twenty millimeters maximum) and intended to be handled and moved manually or mechanically.
- said support or holding devices are often not suitable for use in difficult environments (fire, landslides, rugged terrain) which still requires human intervention to support and direct the pipes with the risks that this entails for the physical integrity of the staff in charge.
- the simple friction between the constituent elements of the sheath can not be sufficient to rigidify the pipe correctly and completely to counteract the effect of the internal pressure of the fluid flowing in the central pipe and maintain the pipe in a certain position, especially when the length it exceeds 1 meter and / or its diameter is greater than a few centimeters.
- the object of the present invention is to overcome, at least partially, the disadvantages of existing flexible pipes.
- the invention aims in particular to provide a pipe which, in a first state, is completely flexible and flexible, and which, in a second state, can be stiffened and fixed in a specific position, while continuing to convey a said fluid, material or other product of any kind.
- Another object of the present invention is to provide a pipe that is suitable for any kind of household or professional use, and whose flexible or rigid nature is independent of its length and diameter.
- Another object of the invention is to provide a pipe which can if necessary, in the frozen state, be guided and moved via appropriate control means.
- the invention achieves its various goals by means of a flexible pipe of the type comprising at least one tight and flexible pipe within which a product such as a fluid, a material or cables or optical fibers can be conveyed, characterized in that it comprises a clamping device covering said sealed pipe over at least a portion of the length of said pipe, preferably the entire length of said pipe, said clamping device comprising at least one sheath and clamping means said sheath, said sheath and said clamping means being adapted, at rest, to preserve the flexibility and flexibility of said pipe and, under the application of a given constraint, to stiffen said pipe and freeze its position over the length of said pipe covered by said clamping device.
- the pipe according to the invention is particularly advantageous in that it can be of two different types, flexible or rigid, depending on the needs of the user and a simple action thereof on the clamping device.
- the conduct of the invention thus allows, when rigid and fixed, the release of the hands of the user who can thus perform other tasks while driving continues to convey a said fluid or material for example.
- the pipe is as easy to handle and move as a traditional flexible pipe which facilitates its precise placement before stiffening and its storage after.
- the sheath of the pipe according to the invention is articulated and said clamping means cooperate with peripheral portions of said sheath at its joints, said clamping means exerting, under a said determined stress, forces pressure on said parts peripherals of said sheath.
- said clamping means exerting, under a said determined stress, forces pressure on said parts peripherals of said sheath.
- said sheath comprises an assembly of modules provided with a longitudinal bore, preferably cylindrical, opening through said modules and complementary connecting means. Said cylindrical bore formed in each module makes it possible to thread said sheath onto said sealed pipe of the pipe.
- said complementary connecting means advantageously form, between said two assembled modules, said joints of said sheath, the latter being preferably ball-type.
- said clamping means comprise cables having a length at least equal to the length of said pipe. These cables advantageously cooperate with said peripheral portions of said sheath, in particular said modules thereof, so as to compress said sheath at its said joints under a tensile force applied to one end of said cables.
- the sheath of said clamping device is preferably composed of identical modules, each said module consisting of a part of revolution comprising, on the one hand, a shaped head. ball of substantially spherical external profile, and, secondly, a flared shell, said shell having an internal profile complementary to said external profile of said head of a second identical module, said head and said shell constituting said complementary connecting means of each said module.
- said sheath comprises at least two different types of modules, each type of module comprising a pair of similar connecting means complementary to the connecting means of the modules of the other type.
- said sheath then advantageously comprises first modules, of the male type, consisting of a part of revolution comprising two ball-shaped heads of substantially spherical external profile, and second modules, of female type, consisting of a part of revolution comprising two flared shells of internal profile complementary to said external profile of said heads of the male-type modules, said heads and said shells said male and female modules respectively being arranged along the axis of revolution of said modules and symmetrical with respect to a median plane orthogonal to said longitudinal axis of revolution of said modules.
- said male and female modules comprise a said cylindrical bore pierced and opening right through the axis of revolution of said modules, this bore allowing to pass said modules on said sealed pipe of the conduct to constitute the articulated sheath.
- the cables of the clamping device are inserted in guides formed, preferably parallel to said axis of revolution of said modules, in the walls of said shells of said modules, said cables comprising, at a first end, stop means, particularly stop type, against the module closest to said first end and, at a second end, means for connecting said cables to traction means ancillary to said pipe.
- said clamping means further comprise strapping rings of said cables evenly distributed along said sheath of said clamping device, preferably at a rate of one every 1 to 15 modules of said sheath, preferably at a rate of from one to every 1 to 6 modules.
- These rings make it possible in particular to direct the compressive forces of the cables to the shells of the modules during the tensioning of the cables by traction means to stiffen the pipe.
- said rings also improve the capacity of the pipe to freeze in a determined position, in three dimensions, during the tensioning of the cables by segmenting in a way the articulated sheath into "sections" of sheath each comprising a number determined modules, each said “section” freezing in the preferred direction in which it is oriented during the tensioning of the cables of the clamping device.
- the shell walls of said modules advantageously comprise notches extending from the edge of said shells to the base of those said notches thus delimiting flanks in which said guides for the cables of said clamping means are formed.
- said one or more head (s) of a said module preferably comprises on its external surface an annular groove coaxial with said axis of revolution of the module, said groove receiving means, preferably an O-ring, adapted to increase the adhesion between said head and said shell of the modules once assembled.
- said clamping device may also comprise strapping rings of the flanks of said shells of the modules, the presence of these strapping rings flanks thus avoiding deformation and crushing of the latter when the pipe conveys a fluid under high pressure and the tension of the clamping cables is important.
- the conduct of the invention may further comprise an outer protective sheath covering said clamping device, this protective sheath in particular to improve the aesthetics of the pipe, but also and especially to protect the means of clamping and the hinged sheath of said clamping device against corrosion, shock and any external aggression they may suffer.
- this protective sheath may also replace the cables of the clamping device of the pipe.
- a protective sheath material which is elastic and resistant. By then stretching the protective sheath under a tensile force, a narrowing of the diameter of said protective sheath is generated which constrains the modules of the pipe sufficiently to block the joints of the latter.
- the pipe according to the invention has a particular structure whose manufacturing method is however very simple.
- said modules comprising said complementary connecting means are threaded on a said sealed and flexible pipe, then, in a second step, said rigid modules are assembled by said complementary connecting means to form a said sheath articulated around said a flexible pipe.
- clamping means are then positioned in cooperation with said modules of the sheath, and ends are fixed to the ends of said pipe, said tips covering said articulated sheath and said clamping means of said clamping device and communicating with the open ends. said sealed pipe covered by said sheath.
- the pipe according to the invention will find particular application in all devices adapted to transport products such as fluids, powder materials or other telecommunication cables.
- said devices comprise at least one said individual actuator, in particular a said traction means, for each of said cables of said means for clamping said device clamping said pipe.
- the use of the pipe according to the invention is very simple and fast.
- said driving by any appropriate means to an actuator and a source of fluid such that said clamping means of the clamping device and said hose and flexible pipe of the pipe cooperate and communicate respectively with said actuator and said source of fluid, then in a second time is placed said flexible pipe in a position determined according to the particular use of the pipe.
- said actuator is then actuated in order to apply a determined stress on said clamping means resulting in the stiffening of said pipe and its freezing in said determined position in which it has been placed, the transport of the fluid inside. of said pipe being done without hindrance regardless of the position in which said pipe is frozen due to the absence of pinching or bending of the inner pipe of said pipe by the clamping device thereof.
- FIG. 1 shows a shower device comprising a pipe according to the invention connected at one end to a knob and at a second end to a means for controlling and actuating the clamping device of the pipe,
- FIG. 2 represents, seen in partial longitudinal section, the pipe of the invention connected to the control and actuation means of FIG. 1,
- FIGS. 3A to 3C show respectively in front view, from above, and in longitudinal section along plane C-C a constituent module of the articulated sheath of the pipe according to the invention in a preferred embodiment
- FIG. 4A and 4B show, in section and in overall view, the structure of the clamping device of the pipe according to the invention
- FIG. 5 shows a shower device comprising a variable rigidity pipe connected at one end to a shower head and at a second end to another type of actuator, itself connected to a water valve;
- FIG. 6 represents an exploded view of the actuator of FIG. 5 and the assembly of parts constituting it along its longitudinal axis XX ',
- Figure 7 shows the actuator of Figures 5 and 6 seen in longitudinal section along its axis ZZ 1 in the rest position
- FIG. 8 represents a perspective view in partial section showing positioning means of the actuator according to the invention.
- Figure 10 shows the actuator of Figures 5 and 6 seen in longitudinal section along its axis ZZ 'in the actuating position
- FIG. 11A and HB respectively show in perspective the relative displacement of positioning means of the actuator of Figures 5 and 6 during a displacement of the rest position to the actuating position and vice versa;
- FIG. 12 shows the actuator according to the invention seen in longitudinal section along its axis ZZ ', the actuator pushing means moving from their actuating position to their rest position;
- FIGS. 13 and 14 show the connection between the actuator and a pipe of variable rigidity and the cooperation of thrust means of the actuator with the device for clamping said pipe when said thrust means are in the rest position and in actuation position respectively.
- the pipe according to the invention has a singular structure from which derives particular properties of flexibility and flexibility or, conversely, stiffening, these properties depending on the state of the various constituent elements of said pipe.
- the pipe 1 according to the invention comprises a hose 2 central waterproof and flexible, this pipe being adapted in particular for the transport of fluids and / or powder materials.
- This central pipe 2 is covered with a clamping device comprising in the first place an articulated sheath 3 consisting of modules 4 assembled to each other by means of complementary connecting means 41, 42, this articulated sheath 3 comprising an internal cylindrical channel 18 allowing the passage of said pipe 2.
- the articulated sheath 3 consists of a plurality of identical modules 4 as shown in detail in FIGS. 3A to 3C and two end modules 19, 20. These modules 4, 19, 20 are assembled to each other by complementary connecting means 41, 42 which form a ball joint 3a between each module 4 of the sheath 3, this ball 3a allowing an angular deflection of about 40 ° between each module of the sheath, giving it flexibility and flexibility.
- Each module 4 consists of a piece of cylindrical revolution made of metal or, preferably, resistant plastic such as High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP) or Acetal.
- HDPE High Density Polyethylene
- PP Polypropylene
- Acetal other materials may also be used to produce the modules 4, chosen according to the desired cost of the pipe 1 and the mechanical stresses to be borne by it according to its use.
- a said module 4 can be obtained for example by molding or injection and machining. It comprises a head 41 in the form of a ball from the base of which extends a shell 42 flared and recessed, said said head and said shell constituting said complementary connecting means of the modules 4.
- the external profile, spherical , the head 41 is complementary in shape to the substantially hemispherical inner profile of the cavity of the shell 42.
- the diameter of the footprint thereof at its rim is very slightly less than its maximum internal diameter, which corresponds to the maximum external diameter of said head 41.
- each module 4 is leveled and said module is pierced along its axis of revolution XX 'of a central cylindrical bore 14 opening on either side of the head 41 at the level of said cap of the module and inside the cavity of the shell 42, said bore having a diameter slightly greater than the outside diameter of the sealed pipe 2.
- the end modules 19, 20, for their part, are also pierced with a cylindrical bore but each have only one shell 42 and one head 41, the rest of their body forming a connection enabling the installation end caps 16, 17 at the ends of the sheath 3 of the pipe 1.
- the walls of the shell 42 of the modules 4 comprise notches 8 delimiting therein flanks 421, 422, 423, 424, as well as guides 7 drilled parallel to said axis XX 'of the modules in the thickness of the flanks.
- These notches 8 and these guides 7, 4 in number distributed regularly every 90 ° about the axis XX 1 , respectively make it possible to increase the flexibility of the walls of the shell 42 by the formation of said independent flanks and to pass 5 cables clamping the sheath 3.
- Said cables cooperate with said flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 at said joints 3a.
- the modules constituting the articulated sheath 3 may be of two different types, and in particular a first type of male module comprising two heads similar to the head 41 of the modules 4, and a second type of female module comprising two shells similar to the shell 42 of the modules 4 and arranged head to tail, the hinged sleeve then being formed by an alternation of male-type modules and female-type modules.
- the cables 5, which may be metallic, for example made of stainless steel, or based on a plastic material such as NYLON®, have a length at least equal to that of the pipe 1 and may be of four individual cables or of two cables looped along the length of the sheath 3 as shown in Figures 2 and 4A, and they comprise at least one of their ends connecting means (not shown) to a traction member.
- These said connecting means can easily be integrated for example in a tip such as the tip 16 in Figure 2, avoiding too much freedom of the ends of said cables 5 and their wear.
- rings or strapping rings 6 circumscribe the cables 5 between the joints 3a. These rings 6 have the function of directing the efforts of compression of the cables 5 under tension clothe the flanks of the shells 42 which will increase the tightening of the cables on the modules 4 and the clamping of the shells 42 on the heads 41 to lock the ball joints 3a and freeze the pipe in a determined position.
- the number of these rings 6 may vary depending on the stiffness of conduct that is desired in the end, as well as its length. In general, it is advisable to position a strapping ring 6 at the rate of one every 1 to 15 modules, and preferably at a rate of one every 1 to 6 modules to obtain a satisfactory rigidity of the pipe even in case of curvatures. important and numerous of it.
- the articulated sheath 3, consisting of the modules 4, the cables 5 and the strapping rings 6 thus form the clamping device of the pipe 1 according to the invention allowing the flexibility of said pipe when the cables 5 are at rest and its stiffening when the tensioning of the cables 5 by a control and actuation device (traction member), which will be chosen according to the uses of the pipe 1 and its length and diameter.
- a said suitable traction member may in particular be of the electric cylinder type, pneumatic or hydraulic or furling type.
- the modules 4 may also comprise around their head 41 an O-ring 11 in order to increase the adhesion between said head and the inside of the flanks of the shells 42 and thus to improve still blocking the joints 3a of the sheath 3 during the tensioning of the cables 5.
- said heads 41 of the modules 4 comprise an annular groove 10 concentric with the cylindrical bore 14 of said modules, this groove receiving the case where appropriate one said o-ring 11.
- flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 of the shell 42 of the modules are identical to the flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 of the shell 42 of the modules.
- a ring or ring 12 housed in a groove 9 formed near the rim of the shell 42.
- This ring 12, optional for the stiffening function of the pipe 1, is however useful to avoid crushing and deformation of the shells when the pressure of the cables is important.
- the pipe 1 of the invention also comprises a protective sheath 13 covering the articulated sheath 3, the cables 5, the bushings strapping 6 and preferably the ends 16, 17 at the ends of said pipe.
- this protective sheath 13 may also, when its material is chosen sufficiently resistant and resilient, replace the clamping cables 5 to achieve the constraint of the modules 4 and the locking of the joints 3a of the pipe.
- the pipe 1 of the invention is particularly advantageous for its ability to be flexible and flexible or conversely rigid and fixed in a position determined by the user following a control action thereof as a function of the use that he wishes at the top.
- This flexible or rigid nature of said pipe is exclusively determined by the state of the clamping device, which at no time constrains the central pipe 2, even when the cables 5 compress the flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 of the shells 42 of the modules for freezing the pipe, which allows to never interfere with the flow of the product transported in said pipe 2.
- the pipe 1 will thus be suitable for a large number of diverse and varied applications for individuals and professionals, bringing in them a very high user comfort of use.
- the pipe 1 is particularly suitable for use as a shower hose in combination with a suitable actuator 15, for example able to exert traction on the cables 5 of the pipe 1 as shown in Figures 1 and 2.
- said pipe 1 is connected by its tip 16 to a hydraulic cylinder 15, itself connected to a not shown water inlet.
- the connection of the pipe 1 to the cylinder 15 operates the connection of the cables 5 of the clamping device of the pipe to the rod 151 of the cylinder 15 and the connection of the central pipe 2 to the water inlet of the shower.
- the tip 17 allows the introduction of a traditional shower head 21 by screwing or latching.
- the hydraulic cylinder 15 comprises a control handle 152 for actuating or not the clamping device of the pipe.
- the cylinder 15 in a first position Pl of the control handle, the cylinder 15 only allows the water to pass inside the pipe 2 of the pipe 1 in the manner of a traditional valve, said pipe then being flexible and flexible, the cables 5 of its clamping device not being tensioned.
- the user wishes in a second time to have their hands free to soap or wash them For example, he places said flexible pipe 1 in the position in which he wishes to fix it, then, in a third step, turns the handle 152 to a second position P2 for actuating the clamping device of pipe 1.
- This rotation of the handle 151 causes a stop of the flow of water in the pipe 2 of the pipe 1 to the knob 21 and a bypass of this water to a filling circuit of the chamber 153 of the cylinder.
- the filling of said chamber causes the displacement of the rod 151 of the jack which itself causes a pull of the cables 5.
- the cables 5 thus stretched apply on the shells 42 transverse compressive forces guided by the strapping rings 6, causing the tightening the flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 of said shells on the head 41 of the modules 4 of the articulated sheath 3 and the locking of the joints 3a of said sheath, this blocking of the joints 3a causing the locking and the stiffening of the pipe 1 on its entire length in the position chosen by the user.
- said user brings back the handle 152 of the cylinder 15 to its first position when desired so that the water circulates again inside the pipe 2 to the knob to be rinsed as it would in a shower with a fixed showerhead. If, however, the user wishes to return to the pipe 1 its flexible nature it is sufficient to turn the control handle 152 to a third position P3, thus causing the emptying of the chamber 153 of the cylinder, the rise of the rod 151 of the latter and loosening of the cables 5, thus releasing the joints 3a of the sheath 3 of the pipe again allowing the angular displacement of the modules 4 of said sheath and the flexibility of the pipe.
- the actuator 15 described above may also be replaced by a similar device whose cylinder, rather than pulling on the cables 5, will push the modules 4 under the pressure of the water or the fluid derived for this purpose, the cables 5 being in this case immobile and only the modules 4 moving and compressing to stiffen the pipe 1.
- a similar device whose cylinder, rather than pulling on the cables 5, will push the modules 4 under the pressure of the water or the fluid derived for this purpose, the cables 5 being in this case immobile and only the modules 4 moving and compressing to stiffen the pipe 1.
- Such an actuator is shown in detail in Figures 5 to 14.
- connection member 16 may be of the screw type or snap-fastening type, attached to the end of the driving 1 and screwed or latched respectively on the actuator 15 which comprises a complementary connection means.
- the actuator 15 consists, from its base to its top, of a cylindrical and hollow base 39 pierced at its bottom with water injection orifices communicating with the opening of a connection tip formed at the base. of the base 39 ( Figure 6).
- a cylindrical jacket 26 comes to fit or screw on said base 39 by a tabular end piece 261 integral with a flange 263 of said jacket 26.
- a nozzle 40 In the space between the bottom of the base 39 and the flange 263 is housed a nozzle 40 whose nozzle passes through the flange 263 through an orifice pierced at its center.
- the inside of the liner 26 forms a compression chamber 262 receiving a piston 24.
- the piston comprises a disc 241, from which extends a thrust shaft 242.
- O-rings 247 seal between the cylindrical surface of the disc 241 and the walls of said chamber 262.
- the piston 24 has a bore 245 pierced axially with the shaft 242 and with the disc 241 of the piston, said bore 245 forming a flow duct leading right through the piston and terminating in a substantially conical recess 248 formed in the body of disc 241 from the lower surface thereof.
- This wall 243 constitutes a guide means and blocking rotation of a ring 31 rotatably mounted by its central bore 313 around the shaft 242 of the piston.
- This ring 31 overlaps a leaf spring 36, also mounted on the shaft 242 of the piston, and whose outer end is connected to the wall 243 of said piston by a pin 361 inserted into an orifice of said wall 243. and whose inner end is locked in a groove made in the ring 31.
- a tubular sleeve 30 Above the ring 31, and in contact with it, is a tubular sleeve 30, also mounted free to rotate on the shaft 242 of the piston 24 by its central bore 302.
- said sleeve 30 At its base, said sleeve 30 comprises a notched ring 301 complementary to a notched surface 311 formed on the ring 31, said notched ring 301 and said notched surface 311 allowing the coupling of the ring 31 and the sleeve 30 by meshing
- the sleeve 30 also has on its outer surface two identical threads 303 and helical. These threads 303 allow, in cooperation with male elements 34 described below, to guide the sleeve 30 geared on the ring 31 in rotation and thus the tensioning of the leaf spring 36 during an elevation of the piston 24 in the compression chamber 262.
- a flange 29 is also threaded onto the shaft 242 of the piston around the sleeve 30, resting on the upper flange of the wall 243 of the piston.
- the compression chamber 262 is closed by a removable flange 28 having a central circular opening of diameter equal to that of the shaft 242 of the piston covered with the sleeve 30 which thus extend outside the compression chamber 262 through of said opening, a compression spring 27 coaxial with the shaft 242 of the piston and the sleeve 30 being interposed between said flange 28 and the flange 29 so as to force the plating of said flange 29 on the piston 24 to maintain the latter. at the bottom of the compression chamber.
- a cover 37 is reversibly fixed by screwing on the sleeve 26 of the actuator.
- This cover 37 has two internal housings, a lower housing covering a tubular barrel 32, a cross 33 and a thrust member 25, all coaxial and having a central bore 323, 332, 253 of axis ZZ ', and an upper housing of connection of a connecting piece 16 of the pipe of variable rigidity, said tip 16 covering the end 251 of the thrust member 25.
- the barrel 32 is mounted by its central bore 323 on the end of the shaft 242 of the piston 24 covered with the sleeve 30 coming out of the compression chamber 262 through the central orifice of the flange 28 on the jacket 26.
- Said cylinder 32 constitutes , in cooperation with the sleeve 30 on the one hand and with the cross 33 on the other hand, a positioning and locking means of the thrust member 25, the lower end of which rests on the upper end of the 242 shaft of the piston 24 between the walls of the barrel 32.
- the latter comprises two series of notches 321, 322 machined in the longitudinal direction in its said walls, the notches 321 being of substantially equal depth to the height of the barrel 32 and the notches 322 being very shallow, of the order of a few millimeters, on the upper edge of the walls of the barrel, each notch 321 being offset by an angle of 45 ° with respect to a notch 322 and an angle of 90 ° in relation to u no other notch 321, this creating a regular alternation of notches 321 and 322 all around the circumference of the barrel 32, giving the latter a form of notched crown.
- said barrel 32 also comprises at its base balls 34 for coupling said barrel with the sleeve 30 on the shaft 242 of the piston 24, said balls 34 being diametrically opposed on the inner face of the central bore 323 of the barrel so as to engage in the threads 303 formed on the sleeve 30, adjusting screws 35 for adjusting during assembly the depth of penetration of the balls in said threads 303.
- the thrust member 25 takes the form of a finger whose upper end 251 is of complementary shape to the lower end of the sheath of the variable rigidity pipe 1 connected to the actuator by its clamping cables 5 embossed at the base of the connector 16, said connector being itself inserted in the cover 37, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. At its lower end, said thrust member is integral with the cross 33, whose bars 331 are inserted into the notches 321 of the barrel 32 when the actuator is at rest.
- guide grooves 252 may also be formed along two generatrices of said thrust member 25 from the cross 33 to the head 251 thereof, pins 38 inserted transversely to the base of the connector 16 penetrating said grooves 252.
- the piston 24 and the thrust member 25 constitute pushing means movable along the longitudinal axis ZZ 'between a rest position (FIG. 7) and an actuating position (FIG. 10), and their respective bores 245, 253. communicate, allowing the insertion of said watertight and flexible pipe 2 of water circulation in the pipe 1 as shown in Figures 7, 10 and 12 in particular.
- the ring 31, the leaf spring 36, the sleeve 30, the barrel 32, the cross 33 and the balls 34 constitute positioning and blocking means cooperating with said thrust means 24,25 to apply or release a stress on the sheath 3 and the cables 5 of the variable stiffness pipe 1.
- the actuator 15 is; as indicated above, controlled from the shower head 21 by means of the button 22 for closing the water inlet in the shower head.
- the flexible rigidity pipe 1 is flexible such as a traditional shower hose.
- the water When the valve is opened, the water first enters the actuator 15 through the orifices 211 of the base 39 and into said pipe 2 and the pipe 1 to the pommel 21.
- the piston 24 is then in the down position , or of rest, inside the compression chamber 262, the force of the compression spring 27 being greater than the pressure of the water at the base of the piston.
- the thrust member 25 is in contact with the end of the shaft 242 of the piston and the bars 331 of the cross 33 in the notches 321 of the barrel 32, its pushing head 251 does not support on the end module of the sheath 3 of the pipe 1, the cables 5 of the latter being flexible ( Figure 13).
- the user can then shower as he would with a traditional shower.
- the translation of the piston 24 under the pressure of the water causes the ring 31 and the sleeve 30 to rotate simultaneously, coupled at their toothed contact portions 301, 311, by an angle ⁇ (FIG. 9) of FIG. order of 40 to 50 °, and more particularly between 42 ° and 47 °, around the shaft 242 of the piston.
- This rotation of the ring 31 and the sleeve 30 causes the compression of the leaf spring 36 and is itself caused by the movement of the balls 34 of the barrel 32 in the threads 303 of the sleeve, said barrel being locked in rotation by the bars 331 of the cross 33 at the base of the thrust member 25 in its notches 321.
- the relaxation of said leaf spring 36 then causes rotation of said ring 31, of said sleeve 30 by an angle ⁇ in the opposite direction to that adopted by said sleeve and said ring during the rise of the piston.
- said sleeve driving in its rotation the barrel 32 which pivots from said angle ⁇ , whose value is determined, in a manner known to those skilled in the art, by the pitch of the threads 303 of the sheath according to the length of the shaft 242 of the piston.
- This rotation of the barrel 32 which is carried out as soon as the bars 331 of the cross 33 come out of the notches 321 of said barrel, causes the positioning of the notches 322, of shallow depth in line with said bars 331 of the cross 33.
- the disk 241 of the piston 24 has in its lower surface a recess 248 of conical shape for creating a suction effect of the water towards the water. 245 of the shaft 242 of the piston 24 when the latter descends, the flow of water injected through the nozzle 40 towards the shaft 242 also promoting this suction effect.
- variable-stiffness pipe 1 its flexible character
- the rise of the piston causes the coupling of the sleeve 30 and the ring 31, then the rotation of these last, with simultaneous compression of the leaf spring 36, by the sliding of the balls 34 of the cylinder 32 in the threads 303 of the sleeve.
- the pipe 1 of the invention used as a shower hose, will allow for example in the medical environment nurses and caregivers to shower a patient while having the two free hands. Disabled persons will also find great comfort in using the pipe according to the invention for showering.
- the conduct of the invention will also be particularly suitable for watering gardens, or the fight against fire where it will allow firefighters to freeze their spear in a specific direction without having to hold it and stay closer to the flames , with all the risks that entails.
- the conduct of the invention can also convey any other gaseous substance, liquid or organic or optical fibers and electrical cables which opens a wide range of use in areas such as domestic applications, industry, food , or the defense systems.
- any other gaseous substance, liquid or organic or optical fibers and electrical cables which opens a wide range of use in areas such as domestic applications, industry, food , or the defense systems.
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Abstract
The invention relates to a flexible conduit (1) provided, in particular, for transporting fluids or powdery materials, comprising at least one sealed and flexible hose (2) inside of which a fluid or powdery fluid can be conveyed. The invention is characterized in that it comprises a straining device covering the sealed hose over at least a portion of the length of said conduit, preferably over the entire conduit. The straining device comprises at least one jacket (3) and means (4, 5) for straining the jacket. This jacket and straining means are provided for, when at rest, preserving the suppleness and flexibility of the conduit and, under the application of a specified stress, to rigidify the conduit and to hold its position over the length of the conduit covered by the straining device. The invention also relates to an actuator (15) for a conduit of the aforementioned type.
Description
CONDUITE A RIGIDITÉ VARIABLE VARIABLE RIGIDITY DRIVING
La présente invention concerne une conduite flexible adaptée notamment au transport de fluides liquides ou gazeux ou encore de matériaux pulvérulents, ladite conduite comportant un dispositif de bridage permettant de diminuer sa flexibilité jusqu'à pouvoir la rigidifier et la figer, et inversement, en fonction des besoins inhérents à l'utilisation de ladite conduite. L'invention est également relative à un actionneur pour une teËe conduite à rigidité variable.The present invention relates to a flexible pipe adapted in particular for the transport of liquid or gaseous fluids or pulverulent materials, said pipe comprising a clamping device to reduce its flexibility until it can stiffen and freeze, and vice versa, depending on requirements inherent in the use of said conduit. The invention also relates to an actuator for a variable rigid rigidity.
La conduite de l'invention pourra être utilisée à des fins diverses et variées comme par exemple en tant que flexible de douche, lance à incendie, tuyau d'arrosage ou toute autre application de transport de fluides liquides ou gazeux, ainsi que comme gaine de protection et de direction de fibres optiques ou de caméras CCD pour des applications médicales ou de télécommunication.The conduct of the invention may be used for a variety of purposes such as, for example, a shower hose, a fire hose, a garden hose or any other application for transporting liquid or gaseous fluids, as well as a hose for Protection and direction of optical fibers or CCD cameras for medical or telecommunication applications.
On connaît depuis longtemps les conduites et tuyaux en tout genre, adaptés au transport de fluides liquides ou gazeux ou encore de produits pulvérulents. Ces conduites et tuyaux peuvent être, en fonction de leurs utilisations ainsi que leurs longueurs et diamètres, flexibles ou non, les conduites et tuyaux flexibles étant en général de diamètre relativement faible (jusqu'à une vingtaine de millimètres maximum) et destinés à être manipulés et déplacés manuellement ou mécaniquement.Pipes and pipes of all kinds have been known for a long time, suitable for the transport of liquid or gaseous fluids or even powdery products. These pipes and hoses can be, according to their uses as well as their lengths and diameters, flexible or not, the pipes and hoses being generally of relatively small diameter (up to about twenty millimeters maximum) and intended to be handled and moved manually or mechanically.
Il est souvent nécessaire d'utiliser, en combinaison avec les conduites flexibles, des dispositifs de soutien ou de maintien desdites conduites dans une position déterminée, notamment au niveau des extrémités de celles-ci. Ces dispositifs de soutien ou de maintien permettent de maintenir lesdites extrémités afin que celles-ci restent orientées selon une direction privilégiée correspondant soit à l'axe de connexion de la conduite avec un réservoir ou un organe de distribution du produit à transporter, soit à la direction de projection ou de distribution de produit à l'aide de moyens appropriés. En l'absence de tels dispositifs de maintien, le fluide ou le matériau transporté sous pression à l'intérieur de ladite conduite, est susceptible d'entraîner des mouvements intempestifs de celle-ci lorsqu'une de ces extrémités n'est pas maintenue.
Les dispositifs de soutien et/ ou de maintien ne s'avèrent toutefois que partiellement satisfaisants. En effet, ces dispositifs sont en général fixes ce qui limite grandement la modularité de positions d'utilisations de la conduite sans manipulation directe de celle-ci.It is often necessary to use, in combination with the flexible pipes, devices for supporting or maintaining said pipes in a specific position, particularly at the ends thereof. These support or holding devices make it possible to maintain the said ends so that they remain oriented in a preferred direction corresponding to either the connection axis of the pipe with a reservoir or a distribution member of the product to be transported, or to the direction of projection or product distribution using appropriate means. In the absence of such holding devices, the fluid or the material transported under pressure inside said pipe, is likely to cause inadvertent movements thereof when one of these ends is not maintained. The support and / or support devices are, however, only partially satisfactory. Indeed, these devices are generally fixed which greatly limits the modularity of use positions of the pipe without direct manipulation thereof.
De plus, lesdits dispositifs de soutien ou de maintien ne sont souvent pas adaptés à des utilisations en milieux difficiles (incendies, éboulements, reliefs accidentés) ce qui exige encore l'intervention humaine pour supporter et diriger les conduites avec les risques que cela comporte pour l'intégrité physique des personnels en charge.In addition, said support or holding devices are often not suitable for use in difficult environments (fire, landslides, rugged terrain) which still requires human intervention to support and direct the pipes with the risks that this entails for the physical integrity of the staff in charge.
Les documents US 2003/184 086, US 2004/074 993 et DE 295 09 507 Ul décrivent quant à eux chacun une conduite flexible comportant un tuyau central dans laquelle est apte à être véhiculé un fluide, ce tuyau central étant recouvert d'une gaine articulée formée d'éléments interconnectés aptes à pivoter les uns par rapport aux autres et formant une sorte de gaine autour du tuyau central. Toutefois, les conduites décrites dans ces documents présentent toutes une rigidité sensiblement constante déterminée par la force de friction existant entre les éléments interconnectés formant la gaine de la conduite.The documents US 2003/184 086, US 2004/074 993 and DE 295 09 507 U1 each describe a flexible pipe comprising a central pipe in which is capable of being conveyed a fluid, this central pipe being covered with a sheath. articulated formed of interconnected elements adapted to pivot relative to each other and forming a kind of sheath around the central pipe. However, the pipes described in these documents all have a substantially constant stiffness determined by the friction force existing between the interconnected elements forming the duct sheath.
Dès lors la simple friction entre les éléments constitutifs de la gaine ne peut suffire à rigidifier correctement et totalement la conduite pour contrer les effet de la pression interne du fluide circulant dans le tuyau central et maintenir la conduite dans une certaine position, notamment lorsque la longueur de celle-ci dépasse 1 mètre et/ ou que son diamètre est supérieur à quelques centimètres.Therefore, the simple friction between the constituent elements of the sheath can not be sufficient to rigidify the pipe correctly and completely to counteract the effect of the internal pressure of the fluid flowing in the central pipe and maintain the pipe in a certain position, especially when the length it exceeds 1 meter and / or its diameter is greater than a few centimeters.
A l'inverse, ces conduites ne sont jamais entièrement souples et flexibles du fait de la friction constante entre les éléments de la gaine, ce qui grève leur maniabilité.Conversely, these pipes are never fully flexible and flexible due to the constant friction between the elements of the sheath, which strike their maneuverability.
On connaît également du document WO 03/103466 Al un flexible de douche susceptible d'être rigidifié par tension d'un câble à l'aide d'un actionneur mécanique ou hydraulique. Toutefois, un tel flexible n'est pas conforme aux normes d'hygiène et de sécurité requises pour ce type de produits sans compter que le système de rigidification proposé n'est mécaniquement pas fiable.Document WO 03/103466 A1 discloses a shower hose that can be stiffened by tensioning a cable using a mechanical or hydraulic actuator. However, such a hose does not comply with the standards of hygiene and safety required for this type of products besides the proposed stiffening system is mechanically unreliable.
Le but de la présente invention est de remédier, au moins partiellement, aux inconvénients des conduites flexibles existantes. L'invention vise en particulier à fournir une conduite qui, dans un premier état, soit totalement souple et flexible, et qui, dans un
second état, puisse être rigidifiée et figée dans une position déterminée, tout en continuant à véhiculer un dit fluide, matériau ou autre produit en tout genre.The object of the present invention is to overcome, at least partially, the disadvantages of existing flexible pipes. The invention aims in particular to provide a pipe which, in a first state, is completely flexible and flexible, and which, in a second state, can be stiffened and fixed in a specific position, while continuing to convey a said fluid, material or other product of any kind.
Un autre but de la présente invention est de fournir une conduite qui puisse convenir à toute sorte d'utilisation ménagère ou professionnelle, et dont le caractère flexible ou rigide soit indépendant de sa longueur et de son diamètre.Another object of the present invention is to provide a pipe that is suitable for any kind of household or professional use, and whose flexible or rigid nature is independent of its length and diameter.
Un autre but de l'invention est de fournir une conduite qui puisse le cas échéant, à l'état figé, être guidée et déplacée par l'intermédiaire de moyens de commande appropriés.Another object of the invention is to provide a pipe which can if necessary, in the frozen state, be guided and moved via appropriate control means.
L'invention atteint ses différents buts grâce à une conduite flexible du type comportant au moins un tuyau étanche et souple à l'intérieur duquel un produit tel qu'un fluide, un matériau ou des câbles ou fibres optiques peut être véhiculé, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte un dispositif de bridage recouvrant le dit tuyau étanche sur au moins une portion de la longueur de ladite conduite, de préférence la totalité de la longueur de ladite conduite, ledit dispositif de bridage comportant au moins une gaine et des moyens de bridage de ladite gaine, ladite gaine et lesdits moyens de bridage étant adaptés pour, au repos, préserver la souplesse et la flexibilité de ladite conduite et, sous l'application d'une contrainte déterminée, rigidifier ladite conduite et figer sa position sur la longueur de ladite conduite recouverte par ledit dispositif de bridage.The invention achieves its various goals by means of a flexible pipe of the type comprising at least one tight and flexible pipe within which a product such as a fluid, a material or cables or optical fibers can be conveyed, characterized in that it comprises a clamping device covering said sealed pipe over at least a portion of the length of said pipe, preferably the entire length of said pipe, said clamping device comprising at least one sheath and clamping means said sheath, said sheath and said clamping means being adapted, at rest, to preserve the flexibility and flexibility of said pipe and, under the application of a given constraint, to stiffen said pipe and freeze its position over the length of said pipe covered by said clamping device.
La conduite selon l'invention est particulièrement avantageuse en ce qu'elle peut être de deux natures différentes, souple ou rigide, en fonction des besoins de l'utilisateur et sur une simple action de celui-ci sur le dispositif de bridage. La conduite de l'invention permet ainsi, lorsqu'elle est rigide et figée, la libération des mains de l'utilisateur qui peut ainsi vaquer à d'autres tâches pendant que la conduite continue à véhiculer un dit fluide ou matériau par exemple. Dans le même temps, lorsque le dispositif de bridage est au repos, la conduite est aussi aisée à manipuler et déplacer qu'une conduite flexible traditionnelle ce qui facilite sa mise en place précise avant rigidification ainsi que son rangement après.The pipe according to the invention is particularly advantageous in that it can be of two different types, flexible or rigid, depending on the needs of the user and a simple action thereof on the clamping device. The conduct of the invention thus allows, when rigid and fixed, the release of the hands of the user who can thus perform other tasks while driving continues to convey a said fluid or material for example. At the same time, when the clamping device is at rest, the pipe is as easy to handle and move as a traditional flexible pipe which facilitates its precise placement before stiffening and its storage after.
Selon une première caractéristique avantageuse, la gaine de la conduite selon l'invention est articulée et lesdits moyens de bridage coopèrent avec des parties périphériques de ladite gaine au niveau de ses articulations, lesdits moyens de bridage exerçant, sous une dite contrainte déterminée, des efforts de pression sur lesdites parties
périphériques de ladite gaine. Ainsi, on provoque le blocage desdites articulations, qui lui- même permet la rigidification de la conduite.According to a first advantageous characteristic, the sheath of the pipe according to the invention is articulated and said clamping means cooperate with peripheral portions of said sheath at its joints, said clamping means exerting, under a said determined stress, forces pressure on said parts peripherals of said sheath. Thus, it causes the blocking of said joints, which itself allows the stiffening of the pipe.
Dans un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, ladite gaine comporte un assemblage de modules munis d'un alésage longitudinal, de préférence cylindrique, débouchant de part en part desdits modules et de moyens de liaison complémentaires. Ledit alésage cylindrique formé dans chaque module permet l'enfilage de ladite gaine sur ledit tuyau étanche de la conduite. Quant à eux, lesdits moyens de liaison complémentaires forment avantageusement, entre deux dits modules assemblés, lesdites articulations de ladite gaine, ces dernières étant préférentiellement de type rotule.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said sheath comprises an assembly of modules provided with a longitudinal bore, preferably cylindrical, opening through said modules and complementary connecting means. Said cylindrical bore formed in each module makes it possible to thread said sheath onto said sealed pipe of the pipe. As for them, said complementary connecting means advantageously form, between said two assembled modules, said joints of said sheath, the latter being preferably ball-type.
Ces rotules permettent ainsi le déplacement angulaire des modules de la gaine les uns par rapport aux autres et confèrent à ladite gaine souplesse et flexibilité lorsque lesdits moyens de bridage ne sont pas actifs.These ball joints thus allow the angular displacement of the modules of the sheath with respect to each other and give said sheath flexibility and flexibility when said clamping means are not active.
Egalement de façon préférée, lesdits moyens de bridage comportent des câbles d'une longueur au moins égale à la longueur de ladite conduite. Ces câbles coopèrent avantageusement avec lesdites parties périphériques de ladite gaine, en particulier desdits modules de celle-ci, de manière à comprimer ladite gaine au niveau des ses dites articulations sous un effort de traction appHqué à une extrémité desdits câbles.Also preferably, said clamping means comprise cables having a length at least equal to the length of said pipe. These cables advantageously cooperate with said peripheral portions of said sheath, in particular said modules thereof, so as to compress said sheath at its said joints under a tensile force applied to one end of said cables.
Dans une première variante de réalisation de la conduite selon l'invention, la gaine dudit dispositif de bridage est composée de préférence de modules identiques, chaque dit module étant constitué d'une pièce de révolution comportant, d'une part, une tête en forme de boule de profil externe sensiblement sphérique, et, d'autre part, une coquille évasée, ladite coquille présentant un profil interne complémentaire dudit profil externe de ladite tête d'un deuxième module identique, ladite tête et ladite coquille constituant lesdits moyens de liaison complémentaires de chaque dit module.In a first embodiment of the pipe according to the invention, the sheath of said clamping device is preferably composed of identical modules, each said module consisting of a part of revolution comprising, on the one hand, a shaped head. ball of substantially spherical external profile, and, secondly, a flared shell, said shell having an internal profile complementary to said external profile of said head of a second identical module, said head and said shell constituting said complementary connecting means of each said module.
Dans une seconde variante de réalisation, ladite gaine comporte au moins deux types de modules différents, chaque type de module comportant une paire de moyens de liaison semblables complémentaires des moyens de liaison des modules de l'autre type.In a second variant embodiment, said sheath comprises at least two different types of modules, each type of module comprising a pair of similar connecting means complementary to the connecting means of the modules of the other type.
Dans cette variante de réalisation, ladite gaine comporte alors avantageusement des premiers modules, de type mâle, constitués d'une pièce de révolution comportant deux
têtes en forme de boule de profil externe sensiblement sphétique, et des seconds modules, de type femelle, constitués d'une pièce de révolution comportant deux coquilles évasées de profil interne complémentaire dudit profil externe desdites têtes des modules de type mâles, lesdites têtes et lesdites coquilles desdits modules de type mâle et femelle respectivement étant disposés selon l'axe de révolution desdits modules et symétriques par rapport à un plan médian orthogonal au dit axe longitudinal de révolution desdits modules.In this variant embodiment, said sheath then advantageously comprises first modules, of the male type, consisting of a part of revolution comprising two ball-shaped heads of substantially spherical external profile, and second modules, of female type, consisting of a part of revolution comprising two flared shells of internal profile complementary to said external profile of said heads of the male-type modules, said heads and said shells said male and female modules respectively being arranged along the axis of revolution of said modules and symmetrical with respect to a median plane orthogonal to said longitudinal axis of revolution of said modules.
Dans cette seconde variante de réalisation comme dans la première, lesdits modules mâles et femelles comportent un dit alésage cylindrique percé et débouchant de part en part selon l'axe de révolution desdits modules, cet alésage permettant de passer lesdits modules sur ledit tuyau étanche de la conduite pour constituer la gaine articulée.In this second embodiment as in the first embodiment, said male and female modules comprise a said cylindrical bore pierced and opening right through the axis of revolution of said modules, this bore allowing to pass said modules on said sealed pipe of the conduct to constitute the articulated sheath.
Conformément à une autre caractéristique préférée de l'invention, les câbles du dispositif de bridage sont insérés dans des guides formés, de préférence parallèlement au dit axe de révolution desdits modules, dans les parois desdites coquilles desdits modules, lesdits câbles comportant, à une première extrémité, des moyens d'arrêts, notamment de type butée, contre le module le plus proche de ladite première extrémité et, à une seconde extrémité, des moyens de connexion desdits câbles à des moyens de traction annexes à ladite conduite.According to another preferred feature of the invention, the cables of the clamping device are inserted in guides formed, preferably parallel to said axis of revolution of said modules, in the walls of said shells of said modules, said cables comprising, at a first end, stop means, particularly stop type, against the module closest to said first end and, at a second end, means for connecting said cables to traction means ancillary to said pipe.
De façon avantageuse, lesdits moyens de bridage comportent en outre des bagues de cerclage desdits câbles réparties régulièrement le long de ladite gaine dudit dispositif de bridage, de préférence à raison de une tous les 1 à 15 modules de ladite gaine, de préférence encore à raison de une tous les 1 à 6 modules. Ces bagues permettent notamment de diriger les efforts de compression des câbles vers les coquilles des modules lors de la mise en tension des câbles par des moyens de traction pour rigidifier la conduite.Advantageously, said clamping means further comprise strapping rings of said cables evenly distributed along said sheath of said clamping device, preferably at a rate of one every 1 to 15 modules of said sheath, preferably at a rate of from one to every 1 to 6 modules. These rings make it possible in particular to direct the compressive forces of the cables to the shells of the modules during the tensioning of the cables by traction means to stiffen the pipe.
De plus, lesdites bagues améliorent également la capacité de la conduite à se figer dans une position déterminée, en trois dimensions, lors de la mise en tension des câbles en segmentant en quelque sorte la gaine articulé en "tronçons" de gaine comprenant chacun un nombre déterminé de modules, chaque dit "tronçon" se figeant selon la direction privilégiée dans laquelle il est orienté lors de la mise en tension des câbles du dispositif de bridage.
Afin de faciliter et améliorer le blocage des articulations entre les modules de la gaine de la conduite selon l'invention, les parois des coquilles desdits modules comportent de façon avantageuse des encoches s'étendant depuis le rebord desdites coquilles jusqu'à la base de celles-ci, lesdites encoches délimitant ainsi des flancs dans lesquels sont formés lesdits guides pour les câbles desdits moyens de bridage.In addition, said rings also improve the capacity of the pipe to freeze in a determined position, in three dimensions, during the tensioning of the cables by segmenting in a way the articulated sheath into "sections" of sheath each comprising a number determined modules, each said "section" freezing in the preferred direction in which it is oriented during the tensioning of the cables of the clamping device. In order to facilitate and improve the blocking of the joints between the modules of the conduit sheath according to the invention, the shell walls of said modules advantageously comprise notches extending from the edge of said shells to the base of those said notches thus delimiting flanks in which said guides for the cables of said clamping means are formed.
Ces encoches permettent "d'affaiblir" les parois des coquilles des modules afin de faciliter leur compression par les câbles pour rigidifier la conduite.These notches allow to "weaken" the walls of the shells of the modules to facilitate their compression by the cables to stiffen the pipe.
Pour améliorer encore le blocage desdites articulations formées entre lesdits modules, la ou les dite(s) tête(s) d'un dit module comporte de préférence à sa surface externe une gorge annulaire coaxiale au dit axe de révolution du module, ladite gorge recevant un moyen, de préférence un joint torique, apte à augmenter l'adhérence entre ladite tête et ladite coquille des modules une fois assemblés.To further improve the locking of said joints formed between said modules, said one or more head (s) of a said module preferably comprises on its external surface an annular groove coaxial with said axis of revolution of the module, said groove receiving means, preferably an O-ring, adapted to increase the adhesion between said head and said shell of the modules once assembled.
Avantageusement, ledit dispositif de bridage peut également comporter des bagues de cerclage des flancs desdites coquilles des modules, la présence de ces bagues de cerclage des flancs évitant ainsi les déformations et l'écrasement de ces derniers lorsque la conduite véhicule un fluide sous haute pression et que la tension des câbles de bridage est importante.Advantageously, said clamping device may also comprise strapping rings of the flanks of said shells of the modules, the presence of these strapping rings flanks thus avoiding deformation and crushing of the latter when the pipe conveys a fluid under high pressure and the tension of the clamping cables is important.
A titre complémentaire, la conduite de l'invention peut en outre comporter une gaine externe de protection recouvrant ledit dispositif de bridage, cette gaine de protection permettant notamment d'améliorer l'esthétique de la conduite, mais aussi et surtout de protéger les moyens de bridage et la gaine articulée dudit dispositif de bridage contre la corrosion, les chocs et toutes les agressions extérieures qu'ils pourraient subir.In addition, the conduct of the invention may further comprise an outer protective sheath covering said clamping device, this protective sheath in particular to improve the aesthetics of the pipe, but also and especially to protect the means of clamping and the hinged sheath of said clamping device against corrosion, shock and any external aggression they may suffer.
Dans une variante particulière de réalisation de l'invention, cette gaine de protection pourra également remplacer les câbles du dispositif de bridage de la conduite. Pour ce faire on choisira avantageusement un matériau de gaine de protection qui est élastique et résistant. En étirant alors la gaine de protection sous un effort de traction, on génère un rétrécissement du diamètre de ladite gaine de protection qui contraint les modules de la conduite de manière suffisante pour réaliser le blocage des articulations de celle-ci.
Comme cela ressort de la description ci-dessus, la conduite selon l'invention présente une structure particulière dont le procédé de fabrication est cependant très simple.In a particular embodiment of the invention, this protective sheath may also replace the cables of the clamping device of the pipe. For this purpose, it will be advantageous to choose a protective sheath material which is elastic and resistant. By then stretching the protective sheath under a tensile force, a narrowing of the diameter of said protective sheath is generated which constrains the modules of the pipe sufficiently to block the joints of the latter. As is apparent from the description above, the pipe according to the invention has a particular structure whose manufacturing method is however very simple.
Dans un premier temps, on enfile sur un dit tuyau étanche et souple desdits modules comportant des dits moyens de liaison complémentaires, puis dans un second temps, on assemble lesdits modules rigides par leurs dits moyens de liaison complémentaires pour former une dite gaine articulée autour dudit tuyau flexible.In a first step, said modules comprising said complementary connecting means are threaded on a said sealed and flexible pipe, then, in a second step, said rigid modules are assembled by said complementary connecting means to form a said sheath articulated around said a flexible pipe.
On positionne ensuite desdits moyens de bridage en coopération avec lesdits modules de la gaine, et on fixe aux extrémités de ladite conduite des embouts de finition, lesdits embouts recouvrant ladite gaine articulée et lesdits moyens de bridage dudit dispositif de bridage et communiquant avec les extrémités débouchantes dudit tuyau étanche recouvert par ladite gaine.These clamping means are then positioned in cooperation with said modules of the sheath, and ends are fixed to the ends of said pipe, said tips covering said articulated sheath and said clamping means of said clamping device and communicating with the open ends. said sealed pipe covered by said sheath.
A titre complémentaire, lorsque ladite conduite doit comporter une gaine de protection, on recouvre ledit dispositif de bridage de la conduite par une dite gaine de protection avant la mise en place desdits embouts.In addition, when said pipe must comprise a protective sheath, covering said clamping device of the pipe with a said protective sheath before the introduction of said tips.
La conduite selon l'invention trouvera notamment une application dans tous les dispositifs adaptés au transport produits tels que fluides, matériaux pulvérulents ou autres câbles de télécommunication.The pipe according to the invention will find particular application in all devices adapted to transport products such as fluids, powder materials or other telecommunication cables.
Ces dispositifs, la plupart préexistants, ne nécessitent pas de modifications structurelles particulières et comportent simplement une conduite selon l'invention en remplacement des conduites existantes ainsi qu'au moins un actionneur du dispositif de bridage de ladite conduite, ce moyen de commande étant apte à exercer une dite contrainte déterminée sur les moyens de bridage du dispositif de bridage pour rigidifier ladite conduite.These devices, most of them existing, do not require any particular structural modifications and simply comprise a pipe according to the invention replacing the existing pipes as well as at least one actuator of the device for clamping said pipe, this control means being suitable for exert a said determined stress on the clamping means of the clamping device to stiffen said pipe.
Pour des applications où la maîtrise de la position et des mouvements de la conduite sont requises, on pourra également prévoir que lesdits dispositifs comportent au moins un dit actionneur individuel, notamment un dit moyen de traction, pour chacun desdits câbles desdits moyens de bridage dudit dispositif de bridage de ladite conduite.For applications where the control of the position and the movements of the pipe are required, it may also be provided that said devices comprise at least one said individual actuator, in particular a said traction means, for each of said cables of said means for clamping said device clamping said pipe.
Quelle que soit l'application considérée, l'utilisation de la conduite selon l'invention est des plus simple et rapide. Pour le transport d'un fluide par exemple, on connecte dans
un premier temps ladite conduite par tous moyens appropriés à un actionneur et à une source de fluide de telle sorte que lesdits moyens de bridage du dispositif de bridage et ledit tuyau étanche et souple de la conduite coopèrent et communiquent respectivement avec ledit actionneur et ladite source de fluide, puis dans un second temps on place ladite conduite flexible dans une position déterminée en fonction de l'utilisation particulière de la conduite.Whatever the application considered, the use of the pipe according to the invention is very simple and fast. For the transport of a fluid for example, we connect in a first time said driving by any appropriate means to an actuator and a source of fluid such that said clamping means of the clamping device and said hose and flexible pipe of the pipe cooperate and communicate respectively with said actuator and said source of fluid, then in a second time is placed said flexible pipe in a position determined according to the particular use of the pipe.
Dans un troisième temps, on actionne alors ledit actionneur afin d'appliquer une contrainte déterminée sur lesdits moyens de bridage entraînant la rigidification de ladite conduite et son figeage dans ladite position déterminée dans laquelle elle a été placée, le transport du fluide à l'intérieur de ladite conduite se faisant sans encombre quelle que soit la position dans laquelle ladite conduite est figée du fait de l'absence de pincements ou pliure du tuyau étanche interne de ladite conduite par le dispositif de bridage de celle-ci.In a third step, said actuator is then actuated in order to apply a determined stress on said clamping means resulting in the stiffening of said pipe and its freezing in said determined position in which it has been placed, the transport of the fluid inside. of said pipe being done without hindrance regardless of the position in which said pipe is frozen due to the absence of pinching or bending of the inner pipe of said pipe by the clamping device thereof.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront à la lumière de la description qui va suivre, faite en référence aux figures 1 à 4 dans lesquelles :Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent in the light of the description which follows, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 in which:
- la figure 1 représente un dispositif de douche comportant une conduite selon l'invention reliée à une première extrémité à un pommeau et à une seconde extrémité à un moyen de commande et d'actionnement du dispositif de bridage de la conduite,FIG. 1 shows a shower device comprising a pipe according to the invention connected at one end to a knob and at a second end to a means for controlling and actuating the clamping device of the pipe,
- la figure 2 représente, vu en coupe longitudinale partielle, la conduite de l'invention reliée au moyen de commande et d'actionnement de la figure 1,FIG. 2 represents, seen in partial longitudinal section, the pipe of the invention connected to the control and actuation means of FIG. 1,
- les figures 3A à 3C représentent respectivement en vue de face, de dessus, et en coupe longitudinale selon le plan C-C un module constitutif de la gaine articulée de la conduite selon l'invention dans un mode de réalisation préféré,FIGS. 3A to 3C show respectively in front view, from above, and in longitudinal section along plane C-C a constituent module of the articulated sheath of the pipe according to the invention in a preferred embodiment,
- les figures 4A et 4B représentent, en coupe et en vue d'ensemble, la structure du dispositif de bridage de la conduite selon l'invention;- Figures 4A and 4B show, in section and in overall view, the structure of the clamping device of the pipe according to the invention;
- la figure 5 représente un dispositif de douche comportant une conduite à rigidité variable reliée à une première extrémité à un pommeau de douche et à une second extrémité à un autre type d'actionneur, lui-même relié à un robinet d'eau;
- la figure 6 représente une vue éclaté de l'actionneur de la figure 5 et de l'assemblage des pièces le constituant selon son axe longitudinal XX',- Figure 5 shows a shower device comprising a variable rigidity pipe connected at one end to a shower head and at a second end to another type of actuator, itself connected to a water valve; FIG. 6 represents an exploded view of the actuator of FIG. 5 and the assembly of parts constituting it along its longitudinal axis XX ',
- la figure 7 représente l'actionneur des figures 5 et 6 vu en coupe longitudinale selon son axe ZZ1 en position de repos;- Figure 7 shows the actuator of Figures 5 and 6 seen in longitudinal section along its axis ZZ 1 in the rest position;
- la figure 8 représente une vue en perspective et en coupe partielle montrant des moyens de positionnement de l'actionneur selon l'invention;FIG. 8 represents a perspective view in partial section showing positioning means of the actuator according to the invention;
- la figure 9 représente une vue en coupe selon le plan V-V de la figure 7;- Figure 9 shows a sectional view along the plane V-V of Figure 7;
- la figure 10 représente l'actionneur des figures 5 et 6 vu en coupe longitudinale selon son axe ZZ' en position d'actionnement;- Figure 10 shows the actuator of Figures 5 and 6 seen in longitudinal section along its axis ZZ 'in the actuating position;
- les figures 11 A et HB représentent respectivement en perspective le déplacement relatif de moyens de positionnement de l'actionneur des figures 5 et 6 lors d'un déplacement de la position de repos vers la position d'actionnement et inversement;- Figures 11A and HB respectively show in perspective the relative displacement of positioning means of the actuator of Figures 5 and 6 during a displacement of the rest position to the actuating position and vice versa;
- la figure 12 représente l'actionneur selon l'invention vu en coupe longitudinale selon son axe ZZ', des moyens de poussée de l'actionneur se déplaçant depuis leur position d'actionnement vers leur position de repos;- Figure 12 shows the actuator according to the invention seen in longitudinal section along its axis ZZ ', the actuator pushing means moving from their actuating position to their rest position;
- les figures 13 et 14, représentent la liaison entre l'actionneur et une conduite à rigidité variable et la coopération de moyens de poussée de l'actionneur avec le dispositif de bridage de ladite conduite lorsque lesdits moyens de poussée sont en position de repos et en position d'actionnement respectivement.FIGS. 13 and 14 show the connection between the actuator and a pipe of variable rigidity and the cooperation of thrust means of the actuator with the device for clamping said pipe when said thrust means are in the rest position and in actuation position respectively.
La conduite selon l'invention présente une structure singulière de laquelle découle des propriétés particulières de flexibilité et souplesse ou, à l'inverse, de rigidification, ces propriétés dépendant de l'état des différents éléments constitutifs de ladite conduite.En référence aux figures 2 et 4A, 4B dans un premier temps, la conduite 1 selon l'invention comporte un tuyau 2 central étanche et souple, ce tuyau étant adapté notamment au transport de fluides et/ ou de matériaux pulvérulents.The pipe according to the invention has a singular structure from which derives particular properties of flexibility and flexibility or, conversely, stiffening, these properties depending on the state of the various constituent elements of said pipe. With reference to FIGS. and 4A, 4B in a first step, the pipe 1 according to the invention comprises a hose 2 central waterproof and flexible, this pipe being adapted in particular for the transport of fluids and / or powder materials.
Ce tuyau 2 central est recouvert d'un dispositif de bridage comportant en premier lieu une gaine articulée 3 constituée de modules 4 assemblés les uns aux autres par des
moyens de liaison complémentaires 41, 42, cette gaine articulée 3 comportant un canal cylindrique interne 18 permettant le passage dudit tuyau 2.This central pipe 2 is covered with a clamping device comprising in the first place an articulated sheath 3 consisting of modules 4 assembled to each other by means of complementary connecting means 41, 42, this articulated sheath 3 comprising an internal cylindrical channel 18 allowing the passage of said pipe 2.
Dans le mode de réalisation décrit, la gaine articulée 3 est constituée d'une pluralité de modules 4 identiques tels que représenté en détail aux figures 3A à 3C et de deux modules d'extrémités 19, 20. Ces modules 4, 19, 20 sont assemblés les uns aux autres par des moyens de liaison complémentaires 41, 42 qui forment une articulation de type rotule 3a entre chaque module 4 de la gaine 3, cette rotule 3a permettant un débattement angulaire d'environ 40° entre chaque module de la gaine, conférant à celle-ci souplesse et flexibilité.In the embodiment described, the articulated sheath 3 consists of a plurality of identical modules 4 as shown in detail in FIGS. 3A to 3C and two end modules 19, 20. These modules 4, 19, 20 are assembled to each other by complementary connecting means 41, 42 which form a ball joint 3a between each module 4 of the sheath 3, this ball 3a allowing an angular deflection of about 40 ° between each module of the sheath, giving it flexibility and flexibility.
Chaque module 4 est constitué d'une pièce de révolution cylindrique constituée de métal ou, de préférence, de matière plastique résistante telle que Polyéthylène Haute Densité (PEHD), Polypropylène (PP) ou encore Acétal. Toutefois, d'autres matériaux pourront également être utilisés pour réaliser les modules 4, choisis en fonction du coût souhaité de la conduite 1 ainsi que des contraintes mécaniques à supporter par celle-ci selon son utilisation.Each module 4 consists of a piece of cylindrical revolution made of metal or, preferably, resistant plastic such as High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP) or Acetal. However, other materials may also be used to produce the modules 4, chosen according to the desired cost of the pipe 1 and the mechanical stresses to be borne by it according to its use.
Un dit module 4 peut être obtenu par exemple par moulage ou injection et usinage. Il comporte une tête 41 en forme de boule depuis la base de laquelle s'étend une coquille 42 évasée et évidée, cette dite tête et cette dite coquille constituant lesdits moyens de liaison complémentaires des modules 4. A cet effet, le profil externe, sphérique, de la tête 41 est de forme complémentaire du profil interne, sensiblement hémisphérique, de l'empreinte de la coquille 42. De plus, afin de permettre un encliquetage aisé et efficace de la tête 41 d'un premier module dans la coquille 42 d'un second module, le diamètre de l'empreinte de celle-ci au niveau de son rebord est très légèrement inférieur à son diamètre maximal interne, qui lui correspond au diamètre maximal externe de ladite tête 41.A said module 4 can be obtained for example by molding or injection and machining. It comprises a head 41 in the form of a ball from the base of which extends a shell 42 flared and recessed, said said head and said shell constituting said complementary connecting means of the modules 4. For this purpose, the external profile, spherical , the head 41 is complementary in shape to the substantially hemispherical inner profile of the cavity of the shell 42. In addition, to allow an easy and effective snap-fastening of the head 41 of a first module in the shell 42 a second module, the diameter of the footprint thereof at its rim is very slightly less than its maximum internal diameter, which corresponds to the maximum external diameter of said head 41.
Afin de former ledit canal cylindrique interne 18 de la gaine 3, la calotte supérieure de chaque module 4 est arasée et le dit module est percé selon son axe de révolution XX' d'un alésage cylindrique central 14 débouchant de part et d'autre de la tête 41 au niveau de ladite calotte du module et à l'intérieur de l'empreinte de la coquille 42, ledit alésage ayant un diamètre légèrement supérieur au diamètre externe du tuyau 2 étanche.
Les modules d'extrémités 19, 20, quant à eux, sont également percés d'un alésage cylindrique mais ne comportent respectivement qu'une coquille 42 et qu'une tête 41, le reste de leur corps formant un raccord permettant la mise en place d'embouts 16, 17 aux extrémités de la gaine 3 de la conduite 1.In order to form said internal cylindrical channel 18 of the sheath 3, the upper cap of each module 4 is leveled and said module is pierced along its axis of revolution XX 'of a central cylindrical bore 14 opening on either side of the head 41 at the level of said cap of the module and inside the cavity of the shell 42, said bore having a diameter slightly greater than the outside diameter of the sealed pipe 2. The end modules 19, 20, for their part, are also pierced with a cylindrical bore but each have only one shell 42 and one head 41, the rest of their body forming a connection enabling the installation end caps 16, 17 at the ends of the sheath 3 of the pipe 1.
Les parois de la coquille 42 des modules 4 comportent des encoches 8 délimitant dans celle-ci des flancs 421, 422, 423, 424, ainsi que des guides 7 percés parallèlement au dit axe XX' des modules dans l'épaisseur des flancs. Ces encoches 8 et ces guides 7, au nombre de 4 répartis régulièrement tous les 90° autour de l'axe XX1, permettent respectivement d'augmenter la flexibilité des parois de la coquille 42 par la formation de dits flancs indépendants et de passer des câbles 5 de bridage de la gaine 3. Lesdits câbles coopèrent avec lesdits flancs 421, 422, 423, 424 au niveau desdites articulations 3a. Ainsi, lors d'une mise en tension des câbles 5 sous un effort Fl, ceux-ci exercent sur lesdits flancs des efforts de compression F2 qui bloquent les articulations 3a entre les modules 4 pour figer la conduite.The walls of the shell 42 of the modules 4 comprise notches 8 delimiting therein flanks 421, 422, 423, 424, as well as guides 7 drilled parallel to said axis XX 'of the modules in the thickness of the flanks. These notches 8 and these guides 7, 4 in number distributed regularly every 90 ° about the axis XX 1 , respectively make it possible to increase the flexibility of the walls of the shell 42 by the formation of said independent flanks and to pass 5 cables clamping the sheath 3. Said cables cooperate with said flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 at said joints 3a. Thus, during a tensioning of the cables 5 under a force F1, they exert on said flanks compressive forces F2 which block the joints 3a between the modules 4 to freeze the pipe.
Dans une variante de réalisation de l'invention non représentée sur les figures, les modules constituant la gaine articulée 3 pourront être de deux types différents, et en particulier un premier type de modules mâle comportant deux têtes semblables à la tête 41 des modules 4, et un deuxième type de modules femelle comportant deux coquilles semblables à la coquille 42 des modules 4 et disposées tête-bêche, la gaine articulée étant alors formée par une alternance de modules de type mâle et de modules de type femelle.In an alternative embodiment of the invention not shown in the figures, the modules constituting the articulated sheath 3 may be of two different types, and in particular a first type of male module comprising two heads similar to the head 41 of the modules 4, and a second type of female module comprising two shells similar to the shell 42 of the modules 4 and arranged head to tail, the hinged sleeve then being formed by an alternation of male-type modules and female-type modules.
Les câbles 5, qui peuvent être métalliques, par exemple en acier inoxydable, ou à base de matériau plastique tel que du NYLON®, ont une longueur au moins égale à celle de la conduite 1 et peuvent être au nombre de quatre câbles individuels ou de deux câbles bouclés sur la longueur de la gaine 3 comme représenté aux figures 2 et 4A, et ils comportent à au moins une de leurs extrémités des moyens de raccordement (non représentés) à un organe de traction. Ces dits moyens de raccordement peuvent aisément être intégrés par exemple dans un embout tel que l'embout 16 sur la figure 2, évitant une trop grande liberté des extrémités desdits câbles 5 et leur usure.The cables 5, which may be metallic, for example made of stainless steel, or based on a plastic material such as NYLON®, have a length at least equal to that of the pipe 1 and may be of four individual cables or of two cables looped along the length of the sheath 3 as shown in Figures 2 and 4A, and they comprise at least one of their ends connecting means (not shown) to a traction member. These said connecting means can easily be integrated for example in a tip such as the tip 16 in Figure 2, avoiding too much freedom of the ends of said cables 5 and their wear.
Par référence à la figure 2, des bagues ou anneaux de cerclage 6 circonscrivent les câbles 5 entre les articulations 3a. Ces anneaux 6 ont pour fonction de diriger les efforts de
compression des câbles 5 sous tension vêts les flancs des coquilles 42 ce qui va accroître le serrage des câbles sur les modules 4 et le pincement des coquilles 42 sur les têtes 41 pour bloquer les rotules 3a et figer la conduite dans une position déterminée. Le nombre de ces anneaux 6 peut varier en fonction de la raideur de conduite que l'on souhaite obtenir au final, ainsi que de sa longueur. De façon générale, il convient de positionner un anneau de cerclage 6 à raison de un tous les 1 à 15 modules, et de préférence à raison de un tous les 1 à 6 modules pour obtenir une rigidité satisfaisante de la conduite même en cas de courbures importantes et nombreuses de celle-ci.With reference to FIG. 2, rings or strapping rings 6 circumscribe the cables 5 between the joints 3a. These rings 6 have the function of directing the efforts of compression of the cables 5 under tension clothe the flanks of the shells 42 which will increase the tightening of the cables on the modules 4 and the clamping of the shells 42 on the heads 41 to lock the ball joints 3a and freeze the pipe in a determined position. The number of these rings 6 may vary depending on the stiffness of conduct that is desired in the end, as well as its length. In general, it is advisable to position a strapping ring 6 at the rate of one every 1 to 15 modules, and preferably at a rate of one every 1 to 6 modules to obtain a satisfactory rigidity of the pipe even in case of curvatures. important and numerous of it.
La gaine articulée 3, constituée des modules 4, les câbles 5 et les bagues de cerclage 6 forment ainsi le dispositif de bridage de la conduite 1 selon l'invention permettant la flexibilité de ladite conduite lorsque les câbles 5 sont au repos et sa rigidification lors de la mise en tension des câbles 5 par un dispositif de commande et d'actionnement (organe de traction), lequel sera choisit en fonction des utilisations de la conduite 1 ainsi que sa longueur et son diamètre. Un dit organe de traction adéquat pourra notamment être du type à vérin électrique, pneumatique ou hydraulique ou encore de type enrouleur.The articulated sheath 3, consisting of the modules 4, the cables 5 and the strapping rings 6 thus form the clamping device of the pipe 1 according to the invention allowing the flexibility of said pipe when the cables 5 are at rest and its stiffening when the tensioning of the cables 5 by a control and actuation device (traction member), which will be chosen according to the uses of the pipe 1 and its length and diameter. A said suitable traction member may in particular be of the electric cylinder type, pneumatic or hydraulic or furling type.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de la conduite selon l'invention les modules 4 peuvent également comporter autour de leur tête 41 un joint torique 11 afin d'augmenter l'adhérence entre ladite tête et l'intérieur des flancs des coquilles 42 et ainsi améliorer encore de blocage des articulations 3a de la gaine 3 lors de la mise en tension des câbles 5. A cet effet, lesdites têtes 41 des modules 4 comportent une gorge annulaire 10 concentrique à l'alésage cylindrique 14 desdits modules, cette gorge recevant le cas échéant un dit joint torique 11.In a particular embodiment of the pipe according to the invention, the modules 4 may also comprise around their head 41 an O-ring 11 in order to increase the adhesion between said head and the inside of the flanks of the shells 42 and thus to improve still blocking the joints 3a of the sheath 3 during the tensioning of the cables 5. For this purpose, said heads 41 of the modules 4 comprise an annular groove 10 concentric with the cylindrical bore 14 of said modules, this groove receiving the case where appropriate one said o-ring 11.
A titre complémentaire, les flancs 421, 422, 423, 424 de la coquille 42 des modulesIn addition, the flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 of the shell 42 of the modules
4 de la gaine articulée 3 peuvent également être cerclés d'une bague ou anneau 12 logé dans une gorge 9 formée à proximité du rebord de la coquille 42. Cette bague 12, facultative pour la fonction de rigidification de la conduite 1, est toutefois utile pour éviter l'écrasement et la déformation des coquilles lorsque la pression des câbles est importante.4 of the articulated sheath 3 can also be surrounded by a ring or ring 12 housed in a groove 9 formed near the rim of the shell 42. This ring 12, optional for the stiffening function of the pipe 1, is however useful to avoid crushing and deformation of the shells when the pressure of the cables is important.
Pour améliorer l'aspect esthétique mais aussi et surtout pour protéger les éléments du dispositif de bridage de celle-ci, la conduite 1 de l'invention comporte également une gaine de protection 13 recouvrant la gaine articulée 3, les câbles 5, les bagues de cerclages 6
ainsi de préférence que les embouts 16, 17 aux extrémités de ladite conduite. Dans un mode de réalisation non représenté, cette gaine de protection 13 peut également, lorsque son matériau est choisi suffisamment résistant et élastique, remplacer les câbles de bridage 5 pour réaliser la contrainte des modules 4 et le blocage des articulations 3a de la conduite.To improve the aesthetic appearance but also and especially to protect the elements of the clamping device thereof, the pipe 1 of the invention also comprises a protective sheath 13 covering the articulated sheath 3, the cables 5, the bushings strapping 6 and preferably the ends 16, 17 at the ends of said pipe. In an embodiment not shown, this protective sheath 13 may also, when its material is chosen sufficiently resistant and resilient, replace the clamping cables 5 to achieve the constraint of the modules 4 and the locking of the joints 3a of the pipe.
La conduite 1 de l'invention est particulièrement avantageuse par sa capacité à être souple et flexible ou à l'inverse rigide et figée dans une position déterminée par l'utilisateur suite à une action de commande de celui-ci en fonction de l'utilisation qu'il souhaite en faîte. Ce caractère flexible ou rigide de ladite conduite est exclusivement déterminé par l'état du dispositif de bridage, lequel ne contraint à aucun moment le tuyau central 2, même lorsque les câbles 5 compriment les flancs 421, 422, 423, 424 des coquilles 42 des modules pour figer la conduite, ce qui permet de ne jamais nuire à la circulation du produit transporté dans ledit tuyau 2.The pipe 1 of the invention is particularly advantageous for its ability to be flexible and flexible or conversely rigid and fixed in a position determined by the user following a control action thereof as a function of the use that he wishes at the top. This flexible or rigid nature of said pipe is exclusively determined by the state of the clamping device, which at no time constrains the central pipe 2, even when the cables 5 compress the flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 of the shells 42 of the modules for freezing the pipe, which allows to never interfere with the flow of the product transported in said pipe 2.
La conduite 1 conviendra ainsi à un grand nombre d'applications diverses et variées pour les particuliers et professionnels, apportant dans celles-ci un confort d'utilisation très important aux utilisateurs.The pipe 1 will thus be suitable for a large number of diverse and varied applications for individuals and professionals, bringing in them a very high user comfort of use.
Comme représenté aux figures 1 et 2, la conduite 1 est particulièrement adaptée à une utilisation comme flexible de douche en association avec un actionneur 15 adapté, par exemple apte à exercer une traction sur les câbles 5 de la conduite 1 comme représenté aux figures 1 et 2. Dans un premier temps, on connecte ladite conduite 1 par son embout 16 à un vérin hydraulique 15, lui-même relié à une arrivée d'eau non représentée. Le raccordement de la conduite 1 au vérin 15 opère la liaison des câbles 5 du dispositif de bridage de la conduite à la tige 151 du vérin 15 et le raccordement du tuyau central 2 à l'arrivée d'eau de la douche. A l'autre extrémité de la conduite, l'embout 17 permet la mise en place d'un pommeau de douche 21 traditionnel par vissage ou encliquetage.As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pipe 1 is particularly suitable for use as a shower hose in combination with a suitable actuator 15, for example able to exert traction on the cables 5 of the pipe 1 as shown in Figures 1 and 2. In a first step, said pipe 1 is connected by its tip 16 to a hydraulic cylinder 15, itself connected to a not shown water inlet. The connection of the pipe 1 to the cylinder 15 operates the connection of the cables 5 of the clamping device of the pipe to the rod 151 of the cylinder 15 and the connection of the central pipe 2 to the water inlet of the shower. At the other end of the pipe, the tip 17 allows the introduction of a traditional shower head 21 by screwing or latching.
Le vérin hydraulique 15 comporte une poignée 152 de commande permettant d'actionner ou non le dispositif de bridage de la conduite. Ainsi, dans une première position Pl de la poignée de commande, le vérin 15 laisse uniquement passer l'eau à l'intérieur du tuyau 2 de la conduite 1 à la façon d'un robinet traditionnel, ladite conduite étant alors flexible et souple, les câbles 5 de son dispositif de bridage n'étant pas tendus. Si l'utilisateur souhaite dans un second temps avoir les mains libres pour se savonner ou se laver les
cheveux pat exemple, il place ladite conduite 1 flexible dans la position dans laquelle il souhaite la figer, puis dans un troisième temps, tourne la poignée 152 vers une seconde position P2 d'actionnement du dispositif de bridage de la conduite 1.The hydraulic cylinder 15 comprises a control handle 152 for actuating or not the clamping device of the pipe. Thus, in a first position Pl of the control handle, the cylinder 15 only allows the water to pass inside the pipe 2 of the pipe 1 in the manner of a traditional valve, said pipe then being flexible and flexible, the cables 5 of its clamping device not being tensioned. If the user wishes in a second time to have their hands free to soap or wash them For example, he places said flexible pipe 1 in the position in which he wishes to fix it, then, in a third step, turns the handle 152 to a second position P2 for actuating the clamping device of pipe 1.
Cette rotation de la poignée 151 provoque un arrêt de la circulation d'eau dans le tuyau 2 de la conduite 1 vers le pommeau 21 et une dérivation de cette eau vers un circuit de remplissage de la chambre 153 du vérin. Le remplissage de ladite chambre provoque le déplacement de la tige 151 du vérin qui lui-même entraîne une traction des câbles 5. Les câbles 5 ainsi tendus appliquent sur les coquilles 42 des efforts transversaux de compression guidés par les bagues de cerclage 6, provoquant le serrage des flancs 421, 422, 423, 424 desdites coquilles sur la tête 41 des modules 4 de la gaine articulée 3 et le blocage des articulations 3a de ladite gaine, ce blocage des articulations 3a entraînant le figeage et la rigidification de la conduite 1 sur toute sa longueur dans la position choisie par l'utilisateur.This rotation of the handle 151 causes a stop of the flow of water in the pipe 2 of the pipe 1 to the knob 21 and a bypass of this water to a filling circuit of the chamber 153 of the cylinder. The filling of said chamber causes the displacement of the rod 151 of the jack which itself causes a pull of the cables 5. The cables 5 thus stretched apply on the shells 42 transverse compressive forces guided by the strapping rings 6, causing the tightening the flanks 421, 422, 423, 424 of said shells on the head 41 of the modules 4 of the articulated sheath 3 and the locking of the joints 3a of said sheath, this blocking of the joints 3a causing the locking and the stiffening of the pipe 1 on its entire length in the position chosen by the user.
Une fois ladite conduite rigidifiée, ledit utilisateur ramène lorsqu'il le désire la poignée 152 du vérin 15 vers sa première position afin que l'eau circule à nouveau à l'intérieur du tuyau 2 vers le pommeau pour pouvoir se rincer comme il le ferait dans une douche à pommeau fixe. Si toutefois l'utilisateur souhaite redonner à la conduite 1 son caractère flexible il lui suffit de tourner la poignée de commande 152 vers une troisième position P3, entraînant de la sorte la vidange de la chambre 153 du vérin, la remontée de la tige 151 de celui-ci et le relâchement des câbles 5, libérant ainsi les articulations 3a de la gaine 3 de la conduite permettant à nouveau le déplacement angulaire des modules 4 de ladite gaine et la flexibilité de la conduite.Once said pipe stiffened, said user brings back the handle 152 of the cylinder 15 to its first position when desired so that the water circulates again inside the pipe 2 to the knob to be rinsed as it would in a shower with a fixed showerhead. If, however, the user wishes to return to the pipe 1 its flexible nature it is sufficient to turn the control handle 152 to a third position P3, thus causing the emptying of the chamber 153 of the cylinder, the rise of the rod 151 of the latter and loosening of the cables 5, thus releasing the joints 3a of the sheath 3 of the pipe again allowing the angular displacement of the modules 4 of said sheath and the flexibility of the pipe.
Dans une variante, on pourra également remplacer l'actionneur 15 décrit précédemment par un dispositif analogue dont le vérin, plutôt que de tirer sur les câbles 5, poussera les modules 4 sous la pression de l'eau ou du fluide dérivé à cet effet, les câbles 5 étant dans ce cas immobiles et seuls les modules 4 se déplaçant et se comprimant pour rigidifier la conduite 1. Un tel actionneur est représenté en détail aux figures 5 à 14.In a variant, the actuator 15 described above may also be replaced by a similar device whose cylinder, rather than pulling on the cables 5, will push the modules 4 under the pressure of the water or the fluid derived for this purpose, the cables 5 being in this case immobile and only the modules 4 moving and compressing to stiffen the pipe 1. Such an actuator is shown in detail in Figures 5 to 14.
La conduite 1 est alors reliée à sa seconde extrémité à l'actionneur 15 par l'intermédiaire d'un organe de connexion 16. Cet organe de connexion peut être du type raccord à vis ou encore à encliquetage, fixé à l'extrémité de la conduite 1 et vissé ou
encliqueté respectivement sur l'actionneur 15 qui comporte un moyen de connexion complémentaire.The pipe 1 is then connected at its second end to the actuator 15 via a connection member 16. This connection member may be of the screw type or snap-fastening type, attached to the end of the driving 1 and screwed or latched respectively on the actuator 15 which comprises a complementary connection means.
L'actionneur 15 se compose, de sa base à son sommet, d'un socle 39 cylindrique et creux percé en son fond d'orifices d'injection d'eau communiquant avec l'ouverture d'un embout de connexion formé à la base du socle 39 (figure 6).The actuator 15 consists, from its base to its top, of a cylindrical and hollow base 39 pierced at its bottom with water injection orifices communicating with the opening of a connection tip formed at the base. of the base 39 (Figure 6).
Une chemise cylindrique 26 vient s'emboîter ou se visser sur ledit socle 39 par un embout tabulaire 261 solidaire d'un flasque 263 de ladite chemise 26. Dans l'espace ménagé entre le fond du socle 39 et le flasque 263 est logée une buse 40 dont le gicleur traverse le flasque 263 par un orifice percé en son centre.A cylindrical jacket 26 comes to fit or screw on said base 39 by a tabular end piece 261 integral with a flange 263 of said jacket 26. In the space between the bottom of the base 39 and the flange 263 is housed a nozzle 40 whose nozzle passes through the flange 263 through an orifice pierced at its center.
L'intérieur de la chemise 26 forme une chambre de compression 262 recevant un piston 24. Le piston comporte un disque 241, depuis lequel s'étend un arbre de poussée 242. Des joints toriques 247 réalisent l'étanchéité entre la surface cylindrique du disque 241 et les parois de ladite chambre 262.The inside of the liner 26 forms a compression chamber 262 receiving a piston 24. The piston comprises a disc 241, from which extends a thrust shaft 242. O-rings 247 seal between the cylindrical surface of the disc 241 and the walls of said chamber 262.
En outre, comme cela ressort plus clairement sur la figure 7, le piston 24 comporte un alésage 245 percé axialement à l'arbre 242 et au disque 241 du piston, ledit alésage 245 formant un conduit de circulation débouchant de part en part du piston et se terminant par un évidement 248 sensiblement conique formé dans le corps du disque 241 depuis la surface inférieure de celui-ci.In addition, as is more clearly apparent in FIG. 7, the piston 24 has a bore 245 pierced axially with the shaft 242 and with the disc 241 of the piston, said bore 245 forming a flow duct leading right through the piston and terminating in a substantially conical recess 248 formed in the body of disc 241 from the lower surface thereof.
Depuis la surface supérieure du disque 241 se dresse également une paroi semi- cylindrique 243 coaxiale et espacée par rapport à l'arbre 242 du piston et sur la face interne de laquelle est creusée une rainure 244. Cette paroi 243 constitue un moyen de guidage et de blocage en rotation d'une bague 31 montée libre en rotation par son alésage central 313 autour de l'arbre 242 du piston.From the upper surface of the disk 241 there is also a semi-cylindrical wall 243 coaxial and spaced from the shaft 242 of the piston and on the inner face of which is hollowed a groove 244. This wall 243 constitutes a guide means and blocking rotation of a ring 31 rotatably mounted by its central bore 313 around the shaft 242 of the piston.
Cette bague 31 vient en recouvrement d'un ressort à lame 36, également monté sur l'arbre 242 du piston, et dont l'extrémité externe est liée à la paroi 243 dudit piston par une goupille 361 insérée dans un orifice de ladite paroi 243 et dont l'extrémité interne est bloquée dans une rainure pratiquée dans la bague 31.This ring 31 overlaps a leaf spring 36, also mounted on the shaft 242 of the piston, and whose outer end is connected to the wall 243 of said piston by a pin 361 inserted into an orifice of said wall 243. and whose inner end is locked in a groove made in the ring 31.
La course de la bague 31 autour de l'arbre 242 du piston, et donc la contrainte du ressort 36, est limitée par une première butée 312 en saillie radialement sur la bague 31 et
engagée, telle une coulisse, dans la rainure 244 de la paroi 243 du piston, une tige 246 étant insérée verticalement dans l'épaisseur de ladite paroi 243 de telle sorte qu'elle forme dans ladite rainure 244 une seconde butée contre laquelle la butée 312 de la bague 31 vient se bloquer, ce qui autorise une rotation maximale d'environ 360° de la bague autour de l'arbre 242 du piston (figure 9).The stroke of the ring 31 around the shaft 242 of the piston, and thus the stress of the spring 36, is limited by a first stop 312 projecting radially on the ring 31 and engaged, such a slide, in the groove 244 of the wall 243 of the piston, a rod 246 being inserted vertically in the thickness of said wall 243 so that it forms in said groove 244 a second stop against which the stop 312 of the ring 31 is locked, which allows a maximum rotation of about 360 ° of the ring around the shaft 242 of the piston (Figure 9).
Au dessus de la bague 31, et au contact de celle-ci, se trouve un fourreau 30 tubulaire, également monté libre en rotation sur l'arbre 242 du piston 24 par son alésage central 302. A sa base, ledit fourreau 30 comporte un anneau cranté 301 complémentaire d'une surface crantée 311 formée sur la bague 31, ledit anneau crantée 301 et ladite surface crantée 311 permettant l'accouplement de la bague 31 et du fourreau 30 par engrènementAbove the ring 31, and in contact with it, is a tubular sleeve 30, also mounted free to rotate on the shaft 242 of the piston 24 by its central bore 302. At its base, said sleeve 30 comprises a notched ring 301 complementary to a notched surface 311 formed on the ring 31, said notched ring 301 and said notched surface 311 allowing the coupling of the ring 31 and the sleeve 30 by meshing
Comme représenté à la figure 8, le fourreau 30 comporte également sur sa surface extérieure deux filets 303 identiques et hélicoïdaux. Ces filets 303 permettent, en coopération avec des éléments mâles 34 décrits ci-après, de guider le fourreau 30 engrené sur la bague 31 en rotation et ainsi la mise en tension du ressort à lame 36 lors d'une élévation du piston 24 dans la chambre de compression 262.As shown in Figure 8, the sleeve 30 also has on its outer surface two identical threads 303 and helical. These threads 303 allow, in cooperation with male elements 34 described below, to guide the sleeve 30 geared on the ring 31 in rotation and thus the tensioning of the leaf spring 36 during an elevation of the piston 24 in the compression chamber 262.
Une bride 29 est également enfilée sur l'arbre 242 du piston autour du fourreau 30, en appui sur le rebord supérieur de la paroi 243 du piston.A flange 29 is also threaded onto the shaft 242 of the piston around the sleeve 30, resting on the upper flange of the wall 243 of the piston.
La chambre de compression 262 est fermée par un flasque amovible 28 comportant une ouverture circulaire centrale de diamètre égal à celui de l'arbre 242 du piston recouvert du fourreau 30 qui s'étendent ainsi à l'extérieur de la chambre de compression 262 au travers de ladite ouverture, un ressort de compression 27 coaxial à l'arbre 242 du piston et au fourreau 30 étant intercalé entre ledit flasque 28 et la bride 29 de manière à forcer le placage de la dite bride 29 sur le piston 24 pour maintenir celui-ci au fond de la chambre de compression.The compression chamber 262 is closed by a removable flange 28 having a central circular opening of diameter equal to that of the shaft 242 of the piston covered with the sleeve 30 which thus extend outside the compression chamber 262 through of said opening, a compression spring 27 coaxial with the shaft 242 of the piston and the sleeve 30 being interposed between said flange 28 and the flange 29 so as to force the plating of said flange 29 on the piston 24 to maintain the latter. at the bottom of the compression chamber.
Un capot 37 est fixé de manière réversible par vissage sur la chemise 26 de l'actionneur. Ce capot 37 comporte deux logements internes, un logement inférieur recouvrant un barillet 32 tubulaire, une croix 33 et un organe de poussée 25, tous coaxiaux et comportant un alésage central 323, 332, 253 d'axe ZZ', et un logement supérieur de connexion d'un embout 16 de raccord de la conduite à rigidité variable, ledit embout 16 recouvrant l'extrémité 251 de l'organe de poussée 25.
Le barillet 32 est monté par son alésage central 323 sur l'extrémité de l'arbre 242 du piston 24 recouvert du fourreau 30 sortant de la chambre de compression 262 par l'orifice central du flasque 28 sur la chemise 26. Ledit barillet 32 constitue, en coopération avec le fourreau 30 d'une part et avec la croix 33 d'autre part, un moyen de positionnement et de blocage de l'organe de poussée 25, l'extrémité inférieure duquel repose sur l'extrémité supérieur de l'arbre 242 du piston 24 entre les parois du barillet 32. Ce dernier comporte deux séries d'encoches 321, 322 usinées dans le sens longitudinal dans ses dites parois, les encoches 321 étant de profondeur sensiblement égale à la hauteur du barillet 32 et les encoches 322 étant elles de très faible profondeur, de l'ordre de quelques millimètres, sur le rebord supérieur des parois du barillet, chaque encoche 321 étant décalée d'un angle de 45° par rapport à une encoche 322 et d'un angle de 90° par rapport à une autre encoche 321, ce créant une alternance régulière d'encoches 321 et 322 sur tout la circonférence du barillet 32, conférant à ce dernier une forme de couronne crantée.A cover 37 is reversibly fixed by screwing on the sleeve 26 of the actuator. This cover 37 has two internal housings, a lower housing covering a tubular barrel 32, a cross 33 and a thrust member 25, all coaxial and having a central bore 323, 332, 253 of axis ZZ ', and an upper housing of connection of a connecting piece 16 of the pipe of variable rigidity, said tip 16 covering the end 251 of the thrust member 25. The barrel 32 is mounted by its central bore 323 on the end of the shaft 242 of the piston 24 covered with the sleeve 30 coming out of the compression chamber 262 through the central orifice of the flange 28 on the jacket 26. Said cylinder 32 constitutes , in cooperation with the sleeve 30 on the one hand and with the cross 33 on the other hand, a positioning and locking means of the thrust member 25, the lower end of which rests on the upper end of the 242 shaft of the piston 24 between the walls of the barrel 32. The latter comprises two series of notches 321, 322 machined in the longitudinal direction in its said walls, the notches 321 being of substantially equal depth to the height of the barrel 32 and the notches 322 being very shallow, of the order of a few millimeters, on the upper edge of the walls of the barrel, each notch 321 being offset by an angle of 45 ° with respect to a notch 322 and an angle of 90 ° in relation to u no other notch 321, this creating a regular alternation of notches 321 and 322 all around the circumference of the barrel 32, giving the latter a form of notched crown.
De plus, comme représenté plus en détail sur la figure 8, ledit barillet 32 comporte également à sa base des billes 34 d'accouplement dudit barillet avec le fourreau 30 sur l'arbre 242 du piston 24, lesdites billes 34 étant diamétralement opposées sur la face interne de l'alésage central 323 du barillet de manière à s'engager dans les filets 303 formés sur le fourreau 30, des vis de réglage 35 permettant d'ajuster lors du montage la profondeur de pénétration des billes dans lesdits filets 303.In addition, as shown in more detail in FIG. 8, said barrel 32 also comprises at its base balls 34 for coupling said barrel with the sleeve 30 on the shaft 242 of the piston 24, said balls 34 being diametrically opposed on the inner face of the central bore 323 of the barrel so as to engage in the threads 303 formed on the sleeve 30, adjusting screws 35 for adjusting during assembly the depth of penetration of the balls in said threads 303.
L'organe de poussée 25 prend la forme d'un doigt dont l'extrémité supérieure 251 est de forme complémentaire de l'extrémité inférieure de la gaine de la conduite à rigidité variable 1 connectée à l'actionneur par ses câbles de bridage 5 emboutis à la base du raccord 16, ledit raccord étant lui-même inséré dans le capot 37, tel que cela est représenté sur les figures 13 et 14. A son extrémité inférieure, ledit organe de poussée est solidaire de la croix 33, dont les barreaux 331 sont insérés dans les encoches 321 du barillet 32 lorsque l'actionneur est au repos. De plus, des rainures de guidages 252 peuvent également être formées selon deux génératrices dudit organe de poussée 25 depuis la croix 33 jusqu'à la tête 251 de celui-ci, des goupilles 38 insérées transversalement à la base du raccord 16 pénétrant lesdites rainures 252 de manière à empêcher la rotation dudit organe de poussée lors de ces mouvements selon l'axe ZZ1 sous l'action du piston 24.
Le piston 24 et l'organe de poussée 25 constituent des moyens de poussée mobiles selon l'axe longitudinal ZZ' entre une position de repos (figure 7) et une position d'actionnement (figure 10), et leurs alésages 245, 253 respectifs communiquent, ce permettant l'insertion dudit tuyau étanche et souple 2 de circulation de l'eau dans la conduite 1 comme représenté sur les figures 7, 10 et 12 en particulier.The thrust member 25 takes the form of a finger whose upper end 251 is of complementary shape to the lower end of the sheath of the variable rigidity pipe 1 connected to the actuator by its clamping cables 5 embossed at the base of the connector 16, said connector being itself inserted in the cover 37, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. At its lower end, said thrust member is integral with the cross 33, whose bars 331 are inserted into the notches 321 of the barrel 32 when the actuator is at rest. In addition, guide grooves 252 may also be formed along two generatrices of said thrust member 25 from the cross 33 to the head 251 thereof, pins 38 inserted transversely to the base of the connector 16 penetrating said grooves 252. in order to prevent the rotation of said thrust member during these movements along the axis ZZ 1 under the action of the piston 24. The piston 24 and the thrust member 25 constitute pushing means movable along the longitudinal axis ZZ 'between a rest position (FIG. 7) and an actuating position (FIG. 10), and their respective bores 245, 253. communicate, allowing the insertion of said watertight and flexible pipe 2 of water circulation in the pipe 1 as shown in Figures 7, 10 and 12 in particular.
En outre, la bague 31, le ressort à lame 36, le fourreau 30, le barillet 32, la croix 33 et les billes 34 constituent des moyens de positionnement et de blocage coopérant avec lesdits moyens de poussée 24,25 pour appliquer ou libérer un effort sur la gaine 3 et les câbles 5 de la conduite à rigidité variable 1.In addition, the ring 31, the leaf spring 36, the sleeve 30, the barrel 32, the cross 33 and the balls 34 constitute positioning and blocking means cooperating with said thrust means 24,25 to apply or release a stress on the sheath 3 and the cables 5 of the variable stiffness pipe 1.
En référence aux figures 5, 7 et 13, l'actionneur 15 est; comme indiqué ci-dessus, commandé depuis le pommeau de douche 21 par l'intermédiaire du bouton 22 de fermeture de l'arrivée d'eau dans le pommeau. A l'état normal, la conduite à rigidité variable 1 est souple tel un flexible de douche traditionnel.With reference to FIGS. 5, 7 and 13, the actuator 15 is; as indicated above, controlled from the shower head 21 by means of the button 22 for closing the water inlet in the shower head. In the normal state, the flexible rigidity pipe 1 is flexible such as a traditional shower hose.
Lorsqu'on ouvre le robinet, l'eau pénètre tout d'abord dans l'actionneur 15 par les orifices 211 du culot 39 puis dans ledit tuyau 2 et la conduite 1 jusqu'au pommeau 21. Le piston 24 est alors en position basse, ou de repos, à l'intérieur de la chambre de compression 262, l'effort du ressort de compression 27 étant supérieur à la pression de l'eau à la base du piston. Dans le même temps, l'organe de poussée 25 est au contact de l'extrémité de l'arbre 242 du piston et les barreaux 331 de la croix 33 dans les encoches 321 du barillet 32, sa tête de poussée 251 n'appuyant pas sur le module d'extrémité de la gaine 3 de la conduite 1, les câbles 5 de cette dernière étant souples (figure 13). L'utilisateur peut alors se doucher comme il le ferait avec une douche traditionnelle.When the valve is opened, the water first enters the actuator 15 through the orifices 211 of the base 39 and into said pipe 2 and the pipe 1 to the pommel 21. The piston 24 is then in the down position , or of rest, inside the compression chamber 262, the force of the compression spring 27 being greater than the pressure of the water at the base of the piston. At the same time, the thrust member 25 is in contact with the end of the shaft 242 of the piston and the bars 331 of the cross 33 in the notches 321 of the barrel 32, its pushing head 251 does not support on the end module of the sheath 3 of the pipe 1, the cables 5 of the latter being flexible (Figure 13). The user can then shower as he would with a traditional shower.
Si l'utilisateur souhaite dans un second temps avoir les mains libres pour se savonner ou se laver les cheveux par exemple, il place ladite conduite 1 dans la position dans laquelle il souhaite la rigidifier, puis exerce une pression sur le bouton 22 de fermeture de l'arrivée d'eau au niveau du pommeau 21. L'eau ne peut alors plus s'écouler par le pommeau. Il en résulte une compression de l'eau provenant du robinet dans la chambre 262 de l'actionneur, à la base du piston 24, qui entraîne, comme représenté aux figures 6, 10 et 14, une élévation du piston 24 et par conséquent de l'organe de poussée 25 dans le sens
de la flèche Ml sous la pression de l'eau sur le disque 241 depuis ladite position de repos (figure 7 et 13) jusqu'à ladite position d'actionnement (figures 10 et 14).If the user wishes in a second time to have his hands free to soap or wash his hair, for example, he places said pipe 1 in the position in which he wishes to stiffen it, then exerts a pressure on the closing button 22 of the water inlet at the pommel 21. The water can then no longer flow through the pommel. This results in a compression of the water coming from the valve in the chamber 262 of the actuator, at the base of the piston 24, which causes, as represented in FIGS. 6, 10 and 14, an elevation of the piston 24 and consequently the thrust member 25 in the direction of the arrow M1 under the pressure of the water on the disk 241 from said rest position (FIGS. 7 and 13) to said actuating position (FIGS. 10 and 14).
La translation du piston 24 sous la pression de l'eau entraîne la rotation simultanée de la bague 31 et du fourreau 30, accouplés au niveau de leurs portions de contact crantées 301, 311, d'un angle α (figure 9) de l'ordre de 40 à 50°, et plus particulièrement compris entre 42° et 47°, autour de l'arbre 242 du piston. Cette rotation de la bague 31 et du fourreau 30 entraîne la compression du ressort à lame 36 et est elle-même provoquée par le déplacement des billes 34 du barillet 32 dans les filets 303 du fourreau, ledit barillet étant lui bloqué en rotation par les barreaux 331 de la croix 33 à la base de l'organe de poussée 25 dans ses encoches 321.The translation of the piston 24 under the pressure of the water causes the ring 31 and the sleeve 30 to rotate simultaneously, coupled at their toothed contact portions 301, 311, by an angle α (FIG. 9) of FIG. order of 40 to 50 °, and more particularly between 42 ° and 47 °, around the shaft 242 of the piston. This rotation of the ring 31 and the sleeve 30 causes the compression of the leaf spring 36 and is itself caused by the movement of the balls 34 of the barrel 32 in the threads 303 of the sleeve, said barrel being locked in rotation by the bars 331 of the cross 33 at the base of the thrust member 25 in its notches 321.
Lorsque ledit piston 24 et ledit organe de poussée 25 ont atteint leur dite position d'actionnement (figure 10), la tête 251 de l'organe de poussée 25 exerce sur ladite gaine 3 une poussée provoquant la compression de ladite gaine 3 et la tension des câbles 5 qui appliquent alors des efforts transversaux sur les articulations formées entre les modules de la gaine 3, lesquelles articulations s'en trouvent bloquées et la conduite 1 ainsi rigidifiée. Dans le même temps, les barreaux 331 de la croix 33 à la base dudit organe de poussée 25 se trouvent sortis des encoches 321 du barillet 32, qui est ainsi libéré en rotation, de même que le ressort à lame 36 reliant la bague 31, accouplée au fourreau 30, à l'arbre 242 du piston.When said piston 24 and said thrust member 25 have reached their said actuating position (Figure 10), the head 251 of the thrust member 25 exerts on said sheath 3 a thrust causing the compression of said sheath 3 and the tension cables 5 which then apply transverse forces on the joints formed between the modules of the sheath 3, which joints are blocked and the pipe 1 thus stiffened. At the same time, the bars 331 of the cross 33 at the base of said thrust member 25 are out of the notches 321 of the barrel 32, which is thus released in rotation, as is the leaf spring 36 connecting the ring 31, coupled to the sleeve 30, to the shaft 242 of the piston.
Comme représenté à la figure HA, le relâchement dudit ressort à lame 36 provoque alors une rotation de ladite bague 31, dudit fourreau 30 d'un angle α dans le sens opposé à celui adopté par ledit fourreau et ladite bague lors de la montée du piston 24 en position d'actionnement, ledit fourreau entraînant dans sa rotation le barillet 32 qui pivote dudit angle α, dont la valeur est déterminée, de façon connue de l'homme du métier, par le pas des filets 303 du fourreau en fonction de la longueur de l'arbre 242 du piston. Cette rotation du barillet 32, qui s'effectue dès que les barreaux 331 de la croix 33 sortent des encoches 321 dudit barillet, engendre le positionnement des encoches 322, de faible profondeur à l'aplomb desdits barreaux 331 de la croix 33.As shown in FIG. HA, the relaxation of said leaf spring 36 then causes rotation of said ring 31, of said sleeve 30 by an angle α in the opposite direction to that adopted by said sleeve and said ring during the rise of the piston. 24 in the actuating position, said sleeve driving in its rotation the barrel 32 which pivots from said angle α, whose value is determined, in a manner known to those skilled in the art, by the pitch of the threads 303 of the sheath according to the length of the shaft 242 of the piston. This rotation of the barrel 32, which is carried out as soon as the bars 331 of the cross 33 come out of the notches 321 of said barrel, causes the positioning of the notches 322, of shallow depth in line with said bars 331 of the cross 33.
Le retour M2 du piston 24 à sa positon de repos permet alors, comme représenté aux figures HB et 12, un léger abaissement de l'organe de poussée 25 et le positionnement
des barreaux 331 de la croix dans les encoches 322 du barillet 32, maintenant ainsi ledit organe de poussée 25 en position haute d'actionnement pendant que le piston 24 revient lui à la position de repos.The return M2 of the piston 24 to its rest position then allows, as shown in Figures HB and 12, a slight lowering of the thrust member 25 and the positioning 331 bars of the cross in the notches 322 of the cylinder 32, thus maintaining said thrust member 25 in the actuated high position while the piston 24 returns to the rest position.
Ce retour M2 du piston s'effectue suite à une nouvelle pression de l'utilisateur sur le bouton 22 du pommeau 21. Ainsi l'eau circule de nouveau du robinet vers le pommeau 21 à l'intérieur du tuyau 2 inséré dans les alésages 253 et 245 de l'organe de poussée 25 et du piston 24 respectivement, ce dont résulte une diminution de la pression d'eau dans la chambre 262, permettant le retour du piston 24 selon la flèche M2 à sa position de repos sous l'action du ressort de compression 27, comprimé lors de la montée, pendant que l'organe de poussée 25 reste lui bloqué en position haute par la croix 33 et le barillet 32.This return M2 of the piston is effected following a new pressure of the user on the knob 22 of the knob 21. Thus the water flows again from the valve to the knob 21 inside the pipe 2 inserted into the bores 253. and 245 of the thrust member 25 and the piston 24 respectively, which results in a decrease in the water pressure in the chamber 262, allowing the return of the piston 24 along the arrow M2 to its rest position under the action compression spring 27, compressed during the rise, while the thrust member 25 remains blocked in the upper position by the cross 33 and the barrel 32.
Lors de la descente M2 du piston, il convient que la bague 31 et le fourreau 30 soient désaccouplés afin d'éviter de contraindre le ressort à lame 36 dans un sens contraire à celui de son enroulement. Ce désaccouplement est permis par l'existence d'un jeu h de quelques millimètres entre la bride 29 et la couronne crantée 301 à la base du fourreau 30 d'une part, et par le frottement des billes 34 du barillet 32 dans les filets 303 du fourreau 30 d'autre part, frottement qui provoque une retenue du fourreau 30 lorsque la descente M2 du piston 24 débute sous l'appui de la bride 29 sur la paroi 243, retenue suffisante pour provoquer la séparation des portions crantées 301, 311 du fourreau et de la bague 31 dans la mesure où ladite bague est elle solidaire du mouvement du piston 24 par le ressort 36.During the descent M2 of the piston, it is appropriate that the ring 31 and the sleeve 30 are uncoupled in order to avoid constraining the leaf spring 36 in a direction opposite to that of its winding. This uncoupling is enabled by the existence of a clearance h of a few millimeters between the flange 29 and the toothed ring 301 at the base of the sheath 30 on the one hand, and by the friction of the balls 34 of the barrel 32 in the threads 303. the sleeve 30 on the other hand, friction which causes a retention of the sleeve 30 when the descent M2 of the piston 24 begins under the support of the flange 29 on the wall 243, held sufficient to cause the separation of the notched portions 301, 311 of the sleeve and ring 31 to the extent that said ring is integral with the movement of the piston 24 by the spring 36.
Afin d'améliorer le vidage de la chambre de compression 262 et la descente M2 du piston, le disque 241 du piston 24 comporte dans sa surface inférieure un évidement 248 de forme conique permettant de créer un effet d'aspiration de l'eau vers l'intérieur 245 de l'arbre 242 du piston 24 lorsque ce dernier redescend, le flux d'eau injectée par la buse 40 en direction de l'arbre 242 favorisant également cet effet d'aspiration.In order to improve the emptying of the compression chamber 262 and the descent M2 of the piston, the disk 241 of the piston 24 has in its lower surface a recess 248 of conical shape for creating a suction effect of the water towards the water. 245 of the shaft 242 of the piston 24 when the latter descends, the flow of water injected through the nozzle 40 towards the shaft 242 also promoting this suction effect.
Si l'utilisateur souhaite ensuite redonner à la conduite à rigidité variable 1 son caractère flexible, il lui suffit d'appuyer de nouveau sur le bouton 22 du pommeau 21 de manière à provoquer un nouveau remplissage de la chambre de compression 262 et ainsi une nouvelle montée Ml du piston 24 vers la position d'actionnement (dans laquelle est toujours bloqué l'organe de poussée 25). Comme précédemment, la montée du piston provoque l'accouplement du fourreau 30 et de la bague 31, puis la mise en rotation de ces
derniers, avec compression simultanée du ressort à lame 36, par le glissement des billes 34 du barillet 32 dans les filets 303 du fourreau.If the user then wishes to give the variable-stiffness pipe 1 its flexible character, it suffices to press again the button 22 of the knob 21 so as to cause a new filling of the compression chamber 262 and thus a new one. mounted Ml piston 24 to the actuating position (in which is always blocked the thrust member 25). As before, the rise of the piston causes the coupling of the sleeve 30 and the ring 31, then the rotation of these last, with simultaneous compression of the leaf spring 36, by the sliding of the balls 34 of the cylinder 32 in the threads 303 of the sleeve.
Lorsque ledit piston atteint ladite position d'actionnement, l'extrémité supérieure de son arbre 242 soulève l'organe de poussée 25 et la croix 33 entraînant un déchaussement des barreaux 331 hors des encoches 322 du barillet qui effectue alors une nouvelle rotation α de 45° et l'alignement des encoches 321 à l'aplomb des barreaux 331 de la croix 33. Une nouvelle pression de l'utilisateur sur le bouton 22 du pommeau entraîne le vidage de la chambre de compression 262 et la descente M2 du piston 24, le retour de l'organe de poussée 25 à la position de repos (figures 7 et 13) étant cette fois permis par le glissement des barreaux 331 dans les encoches 321 plus profondes du barillet 32. Une fois dans la position de repos, le piston 24 et l'organe de poussée n'exercent plus aucune pression sur la gaine 3 et les câbles 5 de la conduite à rigidité variable 1 qui par conséquent retrouve souplesse et maniabilité.When said piston reaches said actuating position, the upper end of its shaft 242 lifts the thrust member 25 and the cross 33 causing a loosening of the bars 331 out of the notches 322 of the cylinder which then makes a new rotation α of 45 ° and the alignment of the notches 321 in line with the bars 331 of the cross 33. A new pressure of the user on the knob 22 of the knob causes the emptying of the compression chamber 262 and the descent M2 of the piston 24, the return of the thrust member 25 to the rest position (FIGS. 7 and 13) being this time permitted by the sliding of the bars 331 into the deeper notches 321 of the barrel 32. Once in the rest position, the piston 24 and the thrust member no longer exert any pressure on the sheath 3 and the cables 5 of the variable rigidity pipe 1 which therefore finds flexibility and maneuverability.
Comme on peut aisément l'envisager au vu de la description qui précède, la conduite 1 de l'invention, utilisée comme flexible de douche, permettra par exemple dans le milieu médical aux infirmières et aides-soignantes de doucher un patient tout en ayant les deux mains libres. Les personnes handicapées trouveront également un grand confort à utiliser la conduite selon l'invention pour se doucher.As can easily be seen from the foregoing description, the pipe 1 of the invention, used as a shower hose, will allow for example in the medical environment nurses and caregivers to shower a patient while having the two free hands. Disabled persons will also find great comfort in using the pipe according to the invention for showering.
La conduite de l'invention conviendra également particulièrement bien pour l'arrosage des jardins, ou encore la lutte contre le feu où elle permettra aux pompiers de figer leur lance dans une direction déterminée sans avoir à la tenir et à rester au plus près des flammes, avec tous les risques que cela comporte.The conduct of the invention will also be particularly suitable for watering gardens, or the fight against fire where it will allow firefighters to freeze their spear in a specific direction without having to hold it and stay closer to the flames , with all the risks that entails.
La conduite de l'invention peut également véhiculer tout autre substance gazeuse, liquide ou organique ou encore des fibres optiques et les câbles électriques ce qui ouvre un large éventail d'utilisation dans des domaines comme les applications domestiques, l'industrie, l'alimentaire, ou les systèmes de défense. Pour des applications de guidage de fibres optiques ou de scopie par exemple, on peut également par exemple prévoir une manipulation individuelle de chacun des câbles 5 du dispositif de bridage de la conduite 1 à l'aide de dispositifs de commande et d'actionnement adaptés, ce qui permet de faire varier
la position de la conduite en même temps que celle-ci est rigide en jouant sur la tension individuelle des câbles.The conduct of the invention can also convey any other gaseous substance, liquid or organic or optical fibers and electrical cables which opens a wide range of use in areas such as domestic applications, industry, food , or the defense systems. For applications for guiding optical fibers or fluoroscopy for example, it is also possible, for example, to provide individual manipulation of each of the cables 5 of the clamping device of the pipe 1 with the aid of suitable control and actuation devices, which makes it possible to vary the position of the pipe at the same time as the latter is rigid by varying the individual tension of the cables.
La présente invention a été décrite ici en référence aux figures annexées dans un mode de réalisation et une application particuliers qui ne sont aucunement limitatifs de la portée de l'invention. En effet, de nombreuses variations de dimensions, formes et matières des éléments constitutifs de la conduite pourront être aisément envisagées par l'homme du métier en fonction des applications particulières de ladite conduite sans pour autant sortir du cadre de la présente invention.
The present invention has been described here with reference to the appended figures in a particular embodiment and application which are in no way limitative of the scope of the invention. Indeed, many variations in dimensions, shapes and materials of the constituent elements of the pipe can be easily envisaged by the skilled person depending on the particular applications of said pipe without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. Conduite flexible (1) adaptée notamment au transport de fluides, ou de matériaux pulvérulents, comportant au moins un tuyau (2) étanche et souple à l'intérieur duquel un dit fluide ou un dit matériau peut être véhiculé, caractérisé en ce qu'elle comporte un dispositif de bridage recouvrant le dit tuyau étanche sur au moins une portion de la longueur de ladite conduite, de préférence la totalité de ladite conduite, ledit dispositif de bridage comportant au moins une gaine (3) et des moyens de bridage de ladite gaine(4, 5, 13), ladite gaine et lesdits moyens de bridage étant adaptés pour, au repos, préserver la souplesse et la flexibilité de ladite conduite et, sous l'application d'une contrainte déterminée, rigidifier ladite conduite et figer sa position sur la longueur de ladite conduite recouverte par ledit dispositif de bridage.1. Flexible pipe (1) adapted in particular for the transport of fluids, or powdery materials, comprising at least one hose (2) sealed and flexible within which a said fluid or a said material can be conveyed, characterized in that it comprises a clamping device covering said sealed pipe over at least a portion of the length of said pipe, preferably all of said pipe, said clamping device comprising at least one sheath (3) and clamping means of said sheath (4, 5, 13), said sheath and said clamping means being adapted, at rest, to preserve the flexibility and flexibility of said pipe and, under the application of a determined constraint, to stiffen said pipe and to freeze its position along the length of said pipe covered by said clamping device.
2. Conduite selon la revendication 1, dans laquelle ladite gaine (3) est articulée et lesdits moyens de bridage (4, 5, 13) coopèrent avec des parties périphériques de ladite gaine au niveau de ses articulations (3a), lesdits moyens de bridage exerçant, sous une dite contrainte déterminée, des efforts de pression sur lesdites parties périphériques de ladite gaine permettant la rigidification par blocage desdites articulations.2. Line according to claim 1, wherein said sheath (3) is articulated and said clamping means (4, 5, 13) cooperate with peripheral portions of said sheath at its joints (3a), said clamping means exerting, under a said determined stress, pressure forces on said peripheral portions of said sheath for rigidification by blocking said joints.
3. Conduite selon la revendication 2, dans laquelle ladite gaine (3) comporte un assemblage de modules (4) munis d'un alésage longitudinal (14), de préférence cylindrique, débouchant de part en part desdits modules et de moyens de liaison complémentaires (41, 42), ledit alésage cylindrique permettant l'enfilage de ladite gaine sur ledit tuyau étanche (2) de ladite conduite (1) et lesdits moyens de liaison complémentaires formant, lors de l'assemblage desdits modules, lesdites articulations (3a) de ladite gaine.3. Line according to claim 2, wherein said sheath (3) comprises an assembly of modules (4) provided with a longitudinal bore (14), preferably cylindrical, opening on the one side of said modules and complementary connecting means. (41, 42), said cylindrical bore allowing said sheath to be threaded onto said sealed pipe (2) of said pipe (1) and said complementary connecting means forming, during the assembly of said modules, said joints (3a) of said sheath.
4. Conduite selon l'une des revendication 2 ou 3, dans laquelle lesdits moyens de bridage comportent des câbles (5) d'une longueur au moins égale à la longueur de ladite conduite, lesdits câbles (5) coopérant avec lesdites parties périphériques de ladite gaine, en particulier desdits modules de celle-ci, de manière à comprimer ladite gaine au niveau des ses dites articulations sous un effort de traction appliqué à une extrémité desdits câbles.4. Conduit according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein said clamping means comprise cables (5) of a length at least equal to the length of said pipe, said cables (5) cooperating with said peripheral portions of said sheath, in particular said modules thereof, so as to compress said sheath at its said joints under a tensile force applied to one end of said cables.
5. Conduite selon la revendication 3 ou 4, dans laquelle lesdits moyens de liaison complémentaires (41, 42) desdits modules (4) de ladite gaine forment une articulation de type rotule (3a) entre deux dits modules assemblés. 5. Pipe according to claim 3 or 4, wherein said complementary connecting means (41, 42) of said modules (4) of said sheath form a hinge-type ball (3a) between said two assembled modules.
6. Conduite selon l'une des revendications 3 à 5, dans laquelle lesdits modules (4) de la gaine (3) dudit dispositif de bridage sont identiques, chaque dit module étant constitué d'une pièce de révolution comportant une tête (41) en forme de boule de profil externe sensiblement sphérique, et une coquille (42) évasée, ladite coquille (42) présentant un profil interne complémentaire dudit profil externe de ladite tête d'un deuxième module identique, ladite tête et ladite coquille constituant lesdits moyens de liaison complémentaires de chaque dit module.6. Conduit according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein said modules (4) of the sheath (3) of said clamping device are identical, each said module consisting of a part of revolution comprising a head (41). in the form of a substantially spherical external profile ball, and a flared shell (42), said shell (42) having an internal profile complementary to said external profile of said head of a second identical module, said head and said shell constituting said means of complementary links of each said module.
7. Conduite selon l'une des revendications 3 à 5, dans laquelle ladite gaine (3) comporte au moins deux types de modules différents tels que:7. Conduit according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein said sheath (3) comprises at least two types of different modules such as:
- chaque type de module comportant une paire de moyens de liaison (41, 42) semblables complémentakes des moyens de liaison des modules de l'autre type,each type of module comprising a pair of connecting means (41, 42) similar complementakes the connecting means of the modules of the other type,
-des premiers modules, de type mâle, étant constitués d'une pièce de révolution comportant deux têtes (41) en forme de boule de profil externe sensiblement sphérique, etfirst modules, of the male type, consisting of a part of revolution comprising two ball-shaped heads (41) of substantially spherical external profile, and
-des seconds modules, de type femelle, étant constitués d'une pièce de révolution comportant deux coquilles (42) évasées de profil interne complémentaire dudit profil externe desdites têtes des modules de type mâles,second modules, of female type, consisting of a part of revolution comprising two flared shells (42) of internal profile complementary to said external profile of said heads of the male type modules,
- lesdites têtes et lesdites coquilles desdits modules de type mâle et femelle respectivement étant disposés selon l'axe de révolution (XX') desdits modules et symétriques par rapport à un plan médian (P) orthogonal au dit axe longitudinal de révolution desdits modules.said heads and said shells of said male and female type modules respectively being disposed along the axis of revolution (XX ') of said modules and symmetrical with respect to a median plane (P) orthogonal to said longitudinal axis of revolution of said modules.
8. Conduite selon l'une des revendications 6 ou 7, dans laquelle lesdits câbles (5) sont insérés dans des guides (7) formés, de préférence parallèlement au dit axe de révolution (XX') desdits modules (4), dans les parois desdites coquilles (42) desdits modules, lesdits câbles comportant, à une première extrémité, des moyens d'arrêts, notamment de type butée, contre le module le plus proche de ladite première extrémité et, à une seconde extrémité, des moyens de connexion desdits câbles à des moyens de traction (15) annexes à ladite conduite.8. Conduit according to one of claims 6 or 7, wherein said cables (5) are inserted in guides (7) formed, preferably parallel to said axis of revolution (XX ') of said modules (4), in the walls of said shells (42) of said modules, said cables comprising, at a first end, stop means, in particular of the stop type, against the module closest to said first end and, at a second end, connection means said cables to traction means (15) attached to said conduit.
9. Conduite selon l'une des revendications 4 à 8, dans laquelle lesdits moyens de bridage comportent en outre des bagues de cerclage (6) desdits câbles (5) réparties régulièrement le long de ladite gaine (3) dudit dispositif de bridage, de préférence à raison de une tous les 1 à 15 modules (4) de ladite gaine, de préférence encore à raison de une tous les 1 à 6 modules (4).9. Conduit according to one of claims 4 to 8, wherein said clamping means further comprise strapping rings (6) of said cables (5) distributed regularly along said sheath (3) of said clamping device, preferably at a rate of one every 1 to 15 modules (4) of said sheath, more preferably at a rate of one every 1 to 6 modules (4).
10. Conduite selon l'une des revendications 8 ou 9, dans laquelle les parois desdites coquilles (42) desdits modules (4) comportent des encoches (8) s'étendant depuis le rebord desdites coquilles jusqu'à la base de celles-ci, lesdites encoches délimitant ainsi des flancs (421, 422, 423, 424) dans lesquels sont formés lesdits guides (7) pour les câbles (5) desdits moyens de bridage.10. Conduit according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the walls of said shells (42) of said modules (4) comprise notches (8) extending from the edge of said shells to the base thereof , said notches thus delimiting flanks (421, 422, 423, 424) in which said guides (7) for the cables (5) of said clamping means are formed.
11. Conduite selon l'une des revendications 6 à 10, dans laquelle la (les) dite(s) tête(s) (41) d'un dit module (4) comporte à sa surface externe une gorge annulaire (10) coaxiale au dit axe de révolution (XX') du module, ladite gorge recevant un moyen (11), de préférence un joint torique, apte à augmenter l'adhérence entre ladite tête (41) et ladite coquille (42) des modules une fois assemblés.11. Conduit according to one of claims 6 to 10, wherein said (s) head (s) (41) of a said module (4) has on its outer surface a coaxial annular groove (10). at said axis of revolution (XX ') of the module, said groove receiving a means (11), preferably an O-ring, capable of increasing the adhesion between said head (41) and said shell (42) of the modules once assembled .
12. Conduite selon l'une des revendications 10 ou 11, dans laquelle ledit dispositif de bridage comporte également des bagues de cerclage (12) desdits flancs (421,12. Conduit according to one of claims 10 or 11, wherein said clamping device also comprises strapping rings (12) of said flanks (421,
422, 423, 424) desdites coquilles des modules de ladite gaine articulée (3).422, 423, 424) of said shells of the modules of said articulated sheath (3).
13. Actionneur (15) pour une conduite flexible (1) à rigidité variable selon l'une des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte:13. Actuator (15) for a flexible pipe (1) with variable rigidity according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that it comprises:
des moyens de connexion dudit actionneur à une source d'un dit fluide (F); etconnecting means of said actuator to a source of a said fluid (F); and
des moyens de connexion (16) à une extrémité de ladite conduite flexible (1); etconnecting means (16) at one end of said flexible pipe (1); and
un dispositif d'actionnement du dispositif de bridage de ladite conduite comportant:a device for actuating the device for clamping said pipe comprising:
" des moyens de poussée (24, 25) adaptés pour communiquer avec ledit tuyau étanche et souple (2) de ladite conduite et avec ladite source de fluide d'une part et pour coopérer avec ladite gaine (3) du dispositif de bridage de la conduite et avec ledit fluide (F) d'autre part, et " des moyens de positionnement (30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) desdits moyens de poussée;"thrust means (24, 25) adapted to communicate with said sealed and flexible pipe (2) of said pipe and with said source of fluid on the one hand and to cooperate with said sheath (3) of the clamping device of the and with said fluid (F) on the other hand, and "positioning means (30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) of said thrust means;
lesdits moyens de poussée et dits moyens de positionnement coopérant pour appliquer ou libérer, consécutivement à une action du fluide sur lesdits moyens de poussée déclenchée par obturation dudit tuyau étanche et souple de ladite conduite par un utilisateur, une contrainte sur le dispositif de bridage de ladite conduite connectée au dit actionneur de manière à rigidifier ou assouplir respectivement ladite conduite.said thrust means and said positioning means cooperating to apply or release, as a result of an action of the fluid on said thrust means triggered by closing said flexible and tight pipe of said pipe by a user, a constraint on the clamping device of said pipe connected to said actuator so as to stiffen or soften respectively said pipe.
14. Actionneur selon la revendication 13, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de poussée sont mobiles selon un axe longitudinal ZZ' dudit actionneur entre une position de repos et une position d'actionnement et comportent un piston (24) mobile à l'intérieur d'une chambre de compression (262) communiquant avec ladite source de fluide (F), et un organe de poussée (25) présentant une extrémité (251) de forme complémentaire de celle de l'extrémité de ladite gaine (3) du dispositif de bridage de la conduite (1) à connecter audit actionneur (15).14. An actuator according to claim 13, characterized in that said thrusting means are movable along a longitudinal axis ZZ 'of said actuator between a rest position and an actuating position and comprise a piston (24) movable inside a a compression chamber (262) communicating with said fluid source (F), and a thrust member (25) having an end (251) of complementary shape to that of the end of said sheath (3) of the clamping the pipe (1) to be connected to said actuator (15).
15. Actionneur selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que ledit piston (24) comporte un disque (241) en contact avec les parois de ladite chambre de compression (262) et un arbre de poussée (242) s'étendant selon ledit axe longitudinal ZZ' de l' actionneur depuis ledit disque jusqu'à l'extérieur de ladite chambre et coopérant avec ledit organe de poussée (25).15. An actuator according to claim 14, characterized in that said piston (24) comprises a disc (241) in contact with the walls of said compression chamber (262) and a thrust shaft (242) extending along said axis longitudinal ZZ 'of the actuator from said disk to the outside of said chamber and cooperating with said thrust member (25).
16. Actionneur selon l'une des revendications 13 à 15, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de positionnement comportent des moyens de blocage (32, 33) desdits moyens de poussée et des moyens de guidage en rotation (30, 31, 34, 35, 36) desdits moyens de blocage.16. An actuator according to one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that said positioning means comprise locking means (32, 33) of said biasing means and rotational guiding means (30, 31, 34, 35). 36) of said locking means.
17. Actionneur selon l'une des revendications 14 à 16, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte au moins un moyen de rappel élastique (27) desdits moyens de poussée (24, 25) en position de repos, de préférence du type ressort de compression, disposé à l'intérieur de la chambre de compression (262), et au moins un moyen de rappel élastique (36) desdits moyens de positionnement en rotation, de préférence du type ressort à lame, solidaire dudit piston (24) et d'au moins un des dits moyens de positionnement (30, 31). 17. Actuator according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that it comprises at least one elastic return means (27) of said biasing means (24, 25) in the rest position, preferably of the spring type. compression, disposed within the compression chamber (262), and at least one elastic return means (36) of said rotational positioning means, preferably of the leaf spring type, integral with said piston (24) and at least one of said positioning means (30, 31).
18. Actionneur selon l'une des revendications 15 à 17, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de guidage en rotation comportent une bague (31) et un fourreau (30) cylindriques et montés libres en rotation sur l'arbre de poussée (242) dudit piston (24), ladite bague et ledit fourreau comportant des moyens d'engrènement (301, 311) permettant l'accouplement de ladite bague et dudit fourreau lors d'un déplacement (Ml) du dit piston depuis ladite position de repos jusqu'à ladite position d'actionnement et leur désaccouplement lors d'un déplacement (M2) depuis ladite position d'actionnement jusqu'à ladite position de repos.18. Actuator according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that said rotational guiding means comprise a ring (31) and a sleeve (30) cylindrical and rotatably mounted on the thrust shaft (242). said piston (24), said ring and said sheath having meshing means (301, 311) for coupling said ring and said sheath during a displacement (Ml) of said piston from said rest position to at said actuating position and their uncoupling when moving (M2) from said actuating position to said rest position.
19. Actionneur selon l'une des revendications 15 à 18, caractérisé en ce que lesdits moyens de blocage comportent un barillet (32) monté libre en rotation autour de l'arbre du piston (242) et de l'organe de poussée (25), ledit bariJlet comportant au moins deux séries d'encoches (321, 322) de profondeurs différentes formant deux crénelages alternés dans les parois dudit barillet sur toute la circonférence de celui-ci, lesdits crénelages étant adaptés pour coopérer avec des éléments de blocage (331) de forme complémentaire et solidaires dudit organe de poussée (25), lesdits éléments de blocage (331) se plaçant dans lesdites encoches lors des déplacements (Ml, M2) desdits moyens de poussée.19. Actuator according to one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that said locking means comprise a barrel (32) rotatably mounted around the piston shaft (242) and the thrust member (25). ), said bariJlet comprising at least two series of notches (321, 322) of different depths forming two alternating notches in the walls of said cylinder all around the circumference thereof, said notches being adapted to cooperate with locking elements ( 331) of complementary shape and integral with said thrust member (25), said locking elements (331) being placed in said notches during displacements (Ml, M2) of said thrust means.
20. Actionneur selon la revendication 19, caractérisé en ce que ledit fourreau (30) des moyens de guidage en rotation comporte au moins un filetage (303) externe coopérant avec au moins un élément mâle (34), de préférence une bille ou un ergot, placé dans l'alésage interne (323) dudit barillet (32) de manière à entraîner ledit fourreau (30) et ladite bague (31) en rotation lors de mouvements (Ml) des moyens de poussée de leur position de repos vers leur position d'actionnement.20. Actuator according to claim 19, characterized in that said sheath (30) of the rotation guiding means comprises at least one external thread (303) cooperating with at least one male element (34), preferably a ball or a spur. placed in the internal bore (323) of said barrel (32) so as to cause said sheath (30) and said ring (31) to rotate during movements (M1) of thrust means from their rest position to their position actuating.
21. Actionneur selon les revendications 19 ou 20, caractérisé en ce que ledit moyen de rappel élastique en rotation (36) est solidaire de ladite bague (31) desdits moyens de guidage en rotation de manière à provoquer une rotation dudit barillet (32) lorsque lesdits éléments de blocage (331) sortent des encoches (321, 322) dudit barillet (32), lesdits moyens de poussée étant alors en position d'actionnement.21. An actuator according to claims 19 or 20, characterized in that said resiliently rotating return means (36) is integral with said ring (31) of said rotational guiding means so as to cause rotation of said barrel (32) when said locking elements (331) out of the notches (321, 322) of said barrel (32), said thrust means then being in the actuating position.
22. Actionneur selon l'une des revendications 19 à 21, caractérisé en ce que le filetage (303) du fourreau (30) est tel qu'il provoque une rotation dudit barillet (32) d'un angle (α) compris entre 40° à 50°, de préférence entre 42° et 47°, consécutivement au relâchement dudit moyen de rappel élastique en rotation (36) lorsque lesdits moyens de poussée (24, 25) sont en position d'actionnement et que lesdits éléments de blocage (331) dudit organe de poussée (25) sortent desdites encoches (321, 322) du barillet.22. Actuator according to one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that the thread (303) of the sheath (30) is such that it causes a rotation of said barrel (32) of an angle (α) between 40 At 50 °, preferably between 42 ° and 47 °, consecutively to releasing said elastically resilient return means (36) when said pushing means (24, 25) are in the actuating position and said locking members (331) of said pushing member (25) projecting from said notches (321, 322 ) of the barrel.
23. Actionneur selon l'une des revendications 19 à 22, caractérisé en ce que ledit piston (24) comporte à sa base un évidement (248) de forme conique ou tronconique communiquant avec ledit alésage (245) percé selon l'arbre de poussée (242) dudit piston.23. Actuator according to one of claims 19 to 22, characterized in that said piston (24) comprises at its base a recess (248) of conical or frustoconical shape communicating with said bore (245) pierced along the thrust shaft. (242) of said piston.
24. Dispositif adapté notamment au transport de fluides et de matériaux pulvérulents, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte une conduite (1) selon IWe des revendications 1 à 12 et au moins un actionneur (15) dudit dispositif de bridage de ladite conduite apte à exercer une dite contrainte déterminée sur lesdits moyens de bridage (5, 6,4) dudit dispositif de bridage pour rigidifier ladite conduite.24. Device adapted in particular for the transport of fluids and powdery materials, characterized in that it comprises a pipe (1) according IWe of claims 1 to 12 and at least one actuator (15) of said clamping device of said pipe adapted to exerting a said determined stress on said clamping means (5, 6, 4) of said clamping device for stiffening said pipe.
25. Dispositif selon la revendication 24, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte au moins un dit actionneur (15) individuel, notamment un dit moyen de traction, pour chacun desdits câbles (5) desdits moyens de bridage dudit dispositif de bridage de ladite conduite.25. Device according to claim 24, characterized in that it comprises at least one said individual actuator (15), including a said traction means, for each of said cables (5) of said clamping means of said clamping device of said pipe .
26. Dispositif selon la revendication 24, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un actionneur (15) selon l'une des revendications 13 à 23.26. Device according to claim 24, characterized in that it comprises an actuator (15) according to one of claims 13 to 23.
27. Utilisation d'une conduite 1 selon l'une des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisée en ce que dans un premier temps, on connecte ladite conduite à un actionneur (15), en particulier un actionneur selon l'une des revendications 13 à 23, de telle sorte que lesdits moyens de bridage (5) du dispositif de bridage coopèrent avec ledit moyen de commande et d'actionnement, puis dans un second temps on place ladite conduite flexible dans une position déterminée en fonction de l'utilisation particulière de la conduite, et dans un troisième temps, on active l'actionneur afin d'appliquer une contrainte déterminée sur lesdits moyens de bridage (5) entraînant la rigidification de ladite conduite et son figeage dans ladite position déterminée dans laquelle elle a été placée. 27. Use of a pipe 1 according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that in a first step, said pipe is connected to an actuator (15), in particular an actuator according to one of claims 13 to 23, such that said clamping means (5) of the clamping device cooperate with said control and actuating means, and then in a second step place said flexible pipe in a position determined according to the particular use of driving, and in a third step, the actuator is activated in order to apply a determined stress on said clamping means (5) causing the stiffening of said pipe and its freezing in said determined position in which it was placed.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
FR0501494A FR2882128B1 (en) | 2005-02-15 | 2005-02-15 | VARIABLE RIGIDITY DRIVING |
US66544405P | 2005-03-25 | 2005-03-25 | |
FR0504341A FR2885183A1 (en) | 2005-04-29 | 2005-04-29 | Fluid e.g. gaseous fluid, or powdery material transporting conduit for use as e.g. shower hose, has straining device with jackets, modules and cables, when at rest, preserving conduit`s flexibility and rigidifying its position, under stress |
PCT/FR2006/000107 WO2006087436A1 (en) | 2005-02-15 | 2006-01-18 | Conduit having a variable rigidity |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP1848909A1 true EP1848909A1 (en) | 2007-10-31 |
Family
ID=36337595
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP06709114A Withdrawn EP1848909A1 (en) | 2005-02-15 | 2006-01-18 | Conduit having a variable rigidity |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090121477A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1848909A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006087436A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2009039105A2 (en) * | 2007-09-18 | 2009-03-26 | Civco Medical Instruments Co., Inc. | Device for precision positioning of instruments at a mri scanner |
EP2154409A1 (en) * | 2008-07-31 | 2010-02-17 | Agru Kunststofftechnik Gmbh | Pipe for a pipe conduit made of several pipes which connect with each other and method for connecting such pipes |
CN101782180B (en) * | 2010-01-30 | 2012-12-05 | 徐国栋 | Pipeline for transporting materials by fluid force and preparation method thereof |
RU2542344C2 (en) * | 2010-06-23 | 2015-02-20 | 3М Инновейтив Пропертиз Компани | Cable system with adhesive coating for indoor wireless applications |
CN102654159A (en) * | 2011-03-02 | 2012-09-05 | 温芫鋐 | Jacket for bicycle lead wire and braking handle group with jacket |
GB2505681B (en) * | 2012-09-06 | 2015-04-08 | Jaguar Land Rover Ltd | A ball jointed duct and method of assembly |
US9810349B2 (en) * | 2014-10-21 | 2017-11-07 | James M. Lee | Modular conduit system |
US10033171B2 (en) * | 2015-11-19 | 2018-07-24 | Winkle Industries, Inc. | Protective component for power cable of an industrial electro-magnetic lifting device |
DE102015121845A1 (en) * | 2015-12-15 | 2017-06-22 | Witzenmann Gmbh | Modular metal hose and apparatus and method for its production |
CA3039410A1 (en) * | 2018-04-06 | 2019-10-06 | Weir-Jones Engineering Consultants Ltd. | Systems and methods for monitoring structural integrity of slopes |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE2557713C2 (en) * | 1975-12-20 | 1982-09-30 | Witzenmann GmbH, Metallschlauch-Fabrik Pforzheim, 7530 Pforzheim | Pipe joint |
DE29509507U1 (en) * | 1995-06-14 | 1995-10-12 | Steidle GmbH, 40764 Langenfeld | Link hose |
AU2002235211A1 (en) * | 2000-12-12 | 2002-06-24 | Water Pik, Inc. | Shower head assembly |
US6755212B1 (en) * | 2001-02-23 | 2004-06-29 | Schwing America, Inc. | Boom stiffening system |
JP2005518855A (en) * | 2002-03-06 | 2005-06-30 | アトロポス・リミテッド | A steerable colonoscopy probe that can change stiffness |
US6648376B2 (en) * | 2002-03-29 | 2003-11-18 | Showertek, Inc. | Flexible sectioned arm with internal overbending-prevention sleeves |
EP1534111B1 (en) * | 2002-06-11 | 2013-02-27 | Handy Shower Ltd. | Bimodal flexible-rigid hose |
US7387137B2 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2008-06-17 | Chiu-Chih Chung | Rotating spout lock joint sleeve |
-
2006
- 2006-01-18 WO PCT/FR2006/000107 patent/WO2006087436A1/en active Application Filing
- 2006-01-18 EP EP06709114A patent/EP1848909A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2006-01-18 US US11/815,948 patent/US20090121477A1/en not_active Abandoned
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
---|
See references of WO2006087436A1 * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2006087436A1 (en) | 2006-08-24 |
US20090121477A1 (en) | 2009-05-14 |
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