mixing unit and mixer tap comprising such a mixing unit

The present invention relates to a mixing unit and a mixer tap comprising such a mixing unit.

The invention relates to the field of valves for sanitary use. In particular, said valves "mixers" are used to send a mixed stream of running water by mixing a hot water flows and a cold water flow within a cartridge mounted in the body of tap. The respective flow rate of the cold water flow and hot water admitted to the cartridge can be adjusted using a control lever in order to enable a temperature control flow mixed by rotation of the lever around an axis, and the rate of flow mixed by a lever rotation about a second axis.

The cartridge includes in most cases a pair of perforated ceramic discs, one being fixed and the other being movable under the action of the lever while being in planar contact, sliding and sealed with the fixed disc. Depending on the position of the movable disk on the fixed disk, the channels are formed to allow the admission of cold and hot water flows within the cartridge, with a more or less large flow rate, and thereby cause their mixture the formation of the mixed stream.

Some cartridges can be known with a separate additional housing and is reported against the cartridge. For example, patent FR-B-2,876,433 discloses a cartridge for a mixing valve equipped with an additional thermostat module sealingly coupled to the base of the cartridge. The additional thermostat module is provided with a thermostatic element comprising a cup containing a heat expandable wax actuating a translatory push depending on the temperature at which the cup is subjected. Thus, when the mixed flow temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold value, a shutter is actuated by the plunger for closing the passage of hot water before it enters the cartridge to automatically limit the mixed stream temperature.

The thermostatic element is reliable and efficient in the known additional modules, but may still require some expertise to its manufacturing and implementation.

Therefore, the invention aims to provide an alternative to the prior art by providing a new reliable and efficient mixing unit, and whose manufacture is easy.

The invention relates to a mixing unit for a mixer tap, the mixing unit comprising:

a first input of a first incoming stream of fluid having a first temperature,

a second input of a second incoming stream of fluid having a second temperature higher than the first temperature,

- mixing means of the first incoming stream with the second inflow to form an outgoing flow of fluid having an exit temperature,

- an outlet for outflow,

- a shutter which is movable in translation along a plugging axis, between an open position of the second inlet and a closed position of the second input,

- an actuating member of the shutter, which is arranged at least partially at the outlet so as to deform as a function of the outlet temperature, between:

o a first embodiment, to switch the shutter in the open position, and

o a second embodiment, to switch the shutter in the closed position,

According to the invention, the actuating element consists of a shape memory alloy.

Thanks to the invention, the actuating element is particularly simple to manufacture and assemble in the mixing unit, while being reliable and durable.

According to other optional and advantageous features of the invention, taken alone or in combination:

the mixing unit comprises a duct housing that connects the output to the second input extending along the closure axis, the closure comprising a pusher extending in the housing duct, via which the actuating member actuates the shutter;

the tappet closes the housing conduit and the mixing unit includes a sliding sealing gasket for sealing the housing operated by the plunger;

the actuating element comprises a substantially coaxial spiral piece with the closure axis, the spiral part having an axial length, measured along the closure axis, whose value varies when the element actuator is deformed between the first form and the second form;

the actuating element comprises at least one curved blade having two ends separated by a distance measured parallel to the closure axis, the distance value varying as the actuating element is deformed between the first form and second embodiment;

the actuating member closes the housing conduit and the mixing unit comprises a static sealing gasket of the shutter of the housing driven by the actuating member;

the actuating member comprises:

- a perimeter portion surrounding the housing conduit and through which the actuating element is fixed to the housing pipe, and

a central portion, which is moved along the shutter axis relative to the perimeter portion when the actuator is deformed between the first form and the second form element, the valve being connected in translation to the central portion along the closure axis;

the translation of the shutter is directed away from the outlet when the shutter passes in the closed position from the open position; and

the translation of the stopper is directed toward the outlet when the shutter passes in the closed position from the open position.

The invention also relates to a mixing valve comprising a mixing unit as described above.

The invention will be better understood from reading the description which follows, given by way of example and with reference to the drawings:

Figure 1 is a perspective view from below of a mixing unit according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a perspective view, from another angle, of an additional housing belonging to the mixture of the Figure 1 unit;

- Figure 3 is a bottom view of the mixing unit of Figure 1, oriented along the arrow III shown in Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a longitudinal section along the line IV-IV section shown in Figure 3

Figures 5 to 7 are detail views, on a larger scale, according to part V of Figure 4, showing the mixing unit in three different configurations;

Figure 8 is a longitudinal section along the line VIII-VIII section of FIG 3;

Figures 9 and 10 are views similar to those of Figures 5 to 7, an additional housing belonging to a mixing unit according to a second mode

embodiment of the invention, the additional box being shown in two different configurations;

Figures 1 1 to 13 are views similar to those in Figures 9 and 10, an additional housing belonging to a mixing unit according to a third embodiment of the invention, the additional box being shown according to two different configurations;

Figure 14 is a longitudinal section of a variant of an operating member for Figures mixing Unit 1 1 to 13; and

Figures 15 to 17 are cross-sectional views of an additional module belonging to a mixing unit according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

1 shows a mixing unit 2 adapted to be inserted into the body of a mixing valve 1, not shown, itself preferably designed to be installed on a sink or shower tray type, or more generally within ' a sanitary facility. The body preferably has a generally cylindrical and hollow, extends coaxially with a vertical axis when the valve is mounted on the tray. The mixer tap, comprising the unit 2, is adapted to transmit, upon command of a user, a flow of water mixed at temperature and adjustable flow, via a radially projecting nose of the valve body. The tap is fed axially in the lower part, by a first inflow F1 water, known as "cold water flow", water first flows

The mixing unit 2 itself has a main axis X2 which is coaxial with the axis of the valve when the mixing unit is mounted in the latter. For convenience, the following description is oriented relative to the principal axis X2, considering that the terms "upper" and "top" correspond to an axial direction relative to the axis X2, facing the upper part of Figure 1, while the terms "lower" and "bottom" correspond to an axial direction in opposite directions.

In this example, the mixing unit 2 comprises two parts, namely a cartridge 4, which extends in the upper part, and an additional case 6, which is attached to a bottom side 32 of the cartridge 4, in the lower part of the mixing unit 2. the cartridge 4 has a generally cylindrical shape defining the principal axis X2 of the mixing unit 2, in which the cartridge 4 is coaxial. The bottom side 32 of the cartridge 4 preferably extends perpendicularly relative to the axis X2.

The additional housing 6 has a lower side 20 shown in particular in Figures 1 and 3. The housing 6 also has an upper side 22 seen in FIG 2, opposite to the lower side 20 and generally parallel thereto. When the housing 6 is attached to the cartridge 4, the sides 20 and 22 are generally orthogonal to the X2 axis, and the upper side 22 of the housing 6 is pressed against the lower side 32 of the cartridge 4. The housing 6 is provided a through duct 8 in substantially parallel to the axis X2 connecting the side 20 to side 22. the flow of cold water F1 is intended to flow through the conduit 8 from a lower inlet 10 through the conduit 8, which opens on the lower side 20 in the lower part of the mixing unit 2, to an intermediate outlet 12 of the duct through 8,

The second inflow C1 hot water is in turn fed into the mixing unit 2 via a conduit baffle 14 of additional housing 6. The conduit 14 passes through the baffle additional housing 6 from the side 20 lower to the upper side 22. in this case, the conduit baffle 14 has a lower inlet 16 of the inlet flow C1, which opens on the lower side 20, as shown in Figure 1. The conduit baffle 14 also opens in the upper part of the housing 6, as illustrated in Figure 2, at an intermediate outlet 18 through which the stream C1 is conducted to the cartridge 4. The inputs lower 10 and 16 are adjacent and the intermediate outlets 12 and 18 are adjacent.

As is visible in Figures 4 to 7, whereas through duct 8 of the housing 6 is substantially cylindrical and straight conduit baffle 14 comprises:

- an upstream portion 78 extending from the lower inlet 16,

- an intermediate portion 80, extending the upstream portion 78 according to an X70 axis perpendicular to the axis X2,

- a downstream portion 82 extending the intermediate portion 80 to the intermediate outlet 18.

In variant not shown, the axis X70 is not perpendicular to the axis X2, but inclined with respect thereto at an acute or obtuse angle.

When the mixing unit 2 is installed in the tap, the lower inputs

10 and 16 are connected in fluid communication with water supply means of the sanitary installation, which open for example in the valve body bottom. The bottom side 20 of the cartridge 4 is provided with two lower static seals 24 and 26, of annular shape, surrounding the lower inputs respectively

10 and 16 for sealing their fluid connection with the means for supplying water above. In general, the term "static" as opposed to "sliding (e)" that the relevant seal is adapted to be mounted between two stationary parts relative to each other.

The conduits 8 and 14 of the housing 6 are fluidly connected to the cartridge 4 so as to supply the cartridge 4 with the F1 and C1 flows, through the lower side 32 of the cartridge 4, as shown in Figures 4 and 8 . the upper side 22 is provided with an upper static seal formed integrally, visible in Figure 2 and comprising two annular lobes 28 and 30. These surround the intermediate outlets 12 and 18 respectively, in order to seal the fluid connection with the cartridge 4.

Alternatively, there may be provided two annular seals instead of separate annular lobes 28 and 30 integrally.

The cartridge 4 comprises a substantially cylindrical side wall 36 defining the axis X2 and rising from the bottom side 32. The cartridge 4 further comprises an upper portion 38 terminating the sidewall 36 opposite the bottom side 32.

The cartridge 4 further comprises a control lever 40, visible in particular in Figure 4. The lever 40 is configured to be actuated by a valve of the user 1, by being mounted on the upper portion 38 movably with respect to the wall side 36 via a hinge member 42. in this case, the hinge member 42 allows a pivoting of the lever 40 relative to the wall 36 about the axis X2, forming a pivoting part with respect to the upper portion 38, around the axis X2. The lever 40 is itself pivotally mounted on the hinge member 42 via a pivot connection 44, allowing a pivoting of the lever 40 about an axis X44 is perpendicular to the axis X2 with respect to the body 42.

The cartridge 4 contains an internal mixing chamber 46 visible in particular in Figure 4, which is delimited in particular by the bottom side 32, the cylindrical side wall 36, the upper portion 38, the articulation member 42 and the lever 40. the mixing chamber 46 contains mixing means 34 of the first inflow F1 and the second inflow C1 to form, within the cartridge 4, an outgoing flow M1, said "mixed flow", having an outlet temperature Tm.

The bottom side 32 of the cartridge 4 is traversed by a first input 48, visible in Figure 8, and a second input 50, visible in Figures 4 to 7, opening both in the chamber 46. The entry 48 is fluidly connected to the intermediate outlet 12, while the inlet 50 is fluidly connected to the intermediate outlet 18 when the bottom side 32 of the cartridge 4 is in sealing contact with the upper side 22 of the housing 6. the inputs 48 and 50 are placed respectively facing with the outlets 12 and 18. the flows F1 and C1 are thus admitted into the mixing chamber 46 respectively via the inputs 48 and 50.

The lower side 32 is also traversed by an outlet 52 for the outflow

M1, opening out firstly into the mixing chamber 46, and on the other side of the housing 6. The inputs 48 and 50 and the output 52 are distributed around the axis X2.

In the example illustrated, the mixing means 34 comprise a set of mixing discs 34A, 34B and 34C, which are contained in the mixing chamber 46, as can be seen in Figures 4 to 8. The mixture disks 34A , 34B and 34C are in contact surface with each other and extend in planes perpendicular to the principal axis X2. The mixing assembly of disks comprises an upper disc 34A, 34B an intermediate disc and a lower disc 34C, the upper 34A and 34B intermediate discs being movable relative to the disc 34C which is fixed relative to the underside 32. The lower disc 34C comprises a first inlet conduit 54 therethrough and being fluidly connected to the first input 48 with a static seal portion 58, as can be seen in Figure 8. The lower disc 34C also includes a second inlet duct 56 extending therethrough and being fluidly connected to the second input 50 with a static seal portion 60, as is visible in figures 4 to 7. the bottom 34C disc finally comprises an outlet conduit 64 therethrough and being fluidly connected to the outlet 52 with a static seal 62, as can be seen in figures 4 8. the intermediate disc 34B is in sliding contact and sealed with the disc 34C and comprises a blind hearing 66 open downwards on the disc 34C. The hearing blind 66 is thus fluidly connected to one or more of the conduits 54, 56 and 64, with a degree of occlusion variable depending on the position and the orientation of the disc 34B with respect to the disc 34C. Specifically, 34B disk closes in particular at least the conduits 54 and 56 with a varying degree, this degree depending on the position 34B the disc relative to the conduits 54, 56 and 64, due to the shape of the latter and that of hearing 66 itself. The hearing blind 66 is configured to communication, depending on its position, the conduits 54 and 56 with the conduit 64. Thus, depending on the relative position of the discs 34B and 34C, the respective flow rate F1 inflows and C1 admitted to the chamber 46 is set. this degree depending on the position 34B of the disc relative to the conduits 54, 56 and 64, due to the shape thereof and the hearing 66 itself. The hearing blind 66 is configured to communication, depending on its position, the conduits 54 and 56 with the conduit 64. Thus, depending on the relative position of the discs 34B and 34C, the respective flow rate F1 inflows and C1 admitted to the chamber 46 is set. this degree depending on the position 34B of the disc relative to the conduits 54, 56 and 64, due to the shape thereof and the hearing 66 itself. The hearing blind 66 is configured to communication, depending on its position, the conduits 54 and 56 with the conduit 64. Thus, depending on the relative position of the discs 34B and 34C, the respective flow rate F1 inflows and C1 admitted to the chamber 46 is set.

As shown in Figures 4 and 8, the inflow F1 and C1 flowing through the lower disc 34C upwards and in the intermediate disc 34B, in which they mix to form the mixed stream M1. This

latter is directed downwardly through the lower disc 34C. The report and the flowrates of incoming flows F1 and C1 is used to adjust both the temperature T and the flow rate of efflux M1. A seal fluid connections between the disks 34B and 34C can be ensured in spite of mobility 34B disk using a ceramic suitable to constitute, in a way known as such. 34A disc form meanwhile a transmission means between a lower lug 68 of the lever 40 and 34B disk, so that the actuation of the lever 40 causes a corresponding movement of 34B disc relative to the wall 36 of the cartridge 4. preferably, the disc 34A is fastened to the disc 34B, but consists of a material different from that of the disk 34B and adapted to absorb the movements imposed by the lever 40. The disc 34B is thus rotated about an axis parallel to the axis X2 during a rotation of the lever around the axis X2, which adjusts the ratio of the flows F1 and C1 inflows to regulate the temperature Tm. the disc 34B is driven in translation in a direction perpendicular to the axis X2 when the lever 40 is pivoted X44 around the axis, thereby varying the flow rate of the outflow M1. If preferred implementation of a ceramics disc mixing chamber as described in the foregoing, it is understood that any known mixing means and usually implemented in the mixing valves cartridges may be used instead. In all cases, the mixing valve and the cartridge 4 can be described as "single lever" to the extent that a single lever 40 can control both the flow rate and temperature T m of the outflow M1 by adjusting the incoming flow rates F1 and C1, having a respective temperature Tm and Tc of different value.

The cartridge 4 comprises a sealing ring 43, visible in Figure 1, provided with a static seal portion 45, and circular external, visible in Figure 1, the sealing ring 43 protruding from the underside 32 of the cartridge 4, coaxially with the axis X2. The sealing ring 43 thus forms a skirt which partially surrounds the housing 6, and which comes in the prolongation of the cylindrical shape of the wall 36. The lining 45 is thus in sealing engagement with the valve body, in a complementary cylindrical shape , so that the cartridge 4 and the valve body bottom delimit a sealed lower chamber, wherein the housing 6 is contained, the spout being fluidly connected to said lower chamber.

As is visible in Figures 4 to 7, the housing 6 comprises a conduit housing 70, substantially cylindrical in shape with a circular base, extending the intermediate portion 80 of the conduit baffle 14 according to the axis X70 between the lower side 20 and the upper side 22 to open into the lower chamber of the valve, when the unit 2 is mounted in the latter. In other words, housing 70 connects conduit 50 to the second input the output conduit 52. The housing 70 extends along the axis X70 in a protruding manner with respect to conduit 14, so that free end of the duct housing 70 is located axially beyond the exit 52, without exceeding the sealing ring 43.

The housing 6 comprises an obturator 72 which is movable in translation relative to the conduits 14 and 70, according to the axis X70, called "sealing" between an open position of the second inlet 50, shown in Figure 5, a position for closing the second inlet 50, shown in Figure 6, and an overtravel position, shown in Figure 7.

The shutter 72 includes a closure head 84 having a cylindrical radial outer surface 85 coaxial with the axis X70 of complementary shape with a sealing collar 86 of the pipe baffle 14.

The collar 86 is coaxial with the axis X70 and protrudes into the intermediate portion 80 of the conduit 14. In this embodiment of Figures 1 to 8, the collar 86 forms a sliding seal which is secured in the conduit 14 . the term "sliding (an)" in contrast to "static", which the relevant seal is adapted to be in sliding contact and / or rubbing against at least one movable member while providing fluid contact seal with it. In this case, the collar 86 is adapted to sealing by sliding against the movable head 84.

To fix the collar, the unit 2 comprises a plug 90. In this case, opposite to the duct housing 70, along the axis X70, the intermediate portion 80 opens to the outside of the housing 6 to an orifice through 91, which is blocked by the plug 90 sealingly through a static seal 92. the collar 86 is secured in the conduit 14 axially along the axis X70 between a ring hold 98 and the stopper 90. A stopper plate 94, linked in translation with the conduit baffle 14 along the axis X70, maintains the plug 90 within the duct baffle 14 along the axis X70 .

Alternatively, the plug 90 is fixed to the conduit baffle 14 by welding or bonding, for example using an annular weld or bead of adhesive interposed between the plug 90 and the through hole 91, replacing the lining of seal 92 and thereby sealing the closure of the through hole 91 by the plug 90.

In the open position, represented in Figure 5, the capping head 84 remote from the collar 86 so as to provide a passage of the interstitial space C1 flows between the head 84 and the neck 86, so that the inlet 50 is so-called "open". The shutter head 84 forms an external shoulder 87 at a first axial end of the surface 85, the shoulder 87 is configured to come into contact with an abutment 88 formed by an axial surface connecting the housing to the conduit 70 intermediate portion 80 of the pipe baffle 14.

Being translated away from the outlet 52 along the axis X70, the shutter 72 reaches the closed position, shown in Figure 6. In this position, the shutter head 84 comes into tight contact with the collar 86 at a second axial end of the opposite surface 85 to the shoulder 87. Thus, the intermediate portion 80 of the pipe baffle 14 is closed by the second axial end of the head 84, the passage of the stream C1 is at least partially interrupted, so that the inlet 50 is known as "closed".

The translation of the shutter 72 is thus directed away from the outlet 52 when the shutter 72 is moved in the closed position from the open position.

By deviating more of the outlet 52, the shutter 72 reaches the overstroke position, wherein the shutter head 84 is surrounded sealed by the collar 86 and passes through the latter. In this case, the collar 86 encloses the surface 85 sealingly between the two axial ends thereof. In this position of overtravel, the inlet 50 is also closed. The postions opening and overtravel thus correspond to extreme positions of the obturator 72, while the closed position is an intermediate position.

The shutter 72 is slidably mounted between the open positions, closing and overtravel via a tappet 74, formed by a rod slidably mounted according to the axis X70 in the conduit 70. The plunger 74 extends from the shoulder 87 of the capping head 84 and is preferably of smaller diameter than the latter. The pusher 74 thus extends at least partially in the housing pipe 70. Advantageously, the pusher 74 has a cross section, with respect to the axis X70, the lowest possible in order to limit the effect of the pressure C1 and M1 flows on the position of the shutter 72.

The shutter 72 includes a sliding seal 76, formed in this example by two O-rings, surrounding the push rod 74 about the axis X70. The gasket 76 is interposed between the duct housing 70 and the pusher 74 so that the plunger 74 closes sealing the duct housing 70 and substantially prevents the escape of fluid from the C1 flows to the outlet 52, that is -to say to the lower chamber of the valve. The sliding packing 76 is integral with

72 and the shutter slides against the conduit 70 during the translation of the shutter 72 between the various positions.

As illustrated in FIGS 5 to 7, the shutter 72 includes a shaped recess 96 blind, generally cylindrical, coaxial with the axis X70 and opening at the second end of the capping head 84, in the conduit baffle 14. the plug 90 also includes a shaped recess 100, generally cylindrical coaxial with the axis X70, opening opposite the shaped recess 96. a side port 102 is formed in the plug 90 to allow passage of flow C1 from the portion upstream 78 to the hollow form 100, then through the neck 86 to the downstream portion 82, if the shutter 72 is in the open position.

The housing 6 comprises a resilient return member of the shutter 72 from its overtravel position, and from its closed position towards its open position. In this embodiment, the biasing member is formed by a compression spring 104 which is coaxial with the axis X70 and extends within the hollow shapes 96 and 100. The spring 104 is thus interposed between the plug 90 and the shutter 72 and imposes elastically efforts, antagonists along the axis X70, which tend to remove the plug 72 of the plug 90.

The housing 6 also comprises an actuating member 106 visible in particular in Figures 5 to 7, which is arranged downstream of the outlet 52, that is to say in the lower chamber of the valve, on the passage of the outflow M1 . In this embodiment of Figures 1 to 8, the actuator 106 is formed by a workpiece scroll element, of the type spring, substantially coaxial with the axis X70 shutter. The actuator 106 is threaded around a sliding cap member 108, itself fitted over the protrusion of the conduit housing 70 slidably along the axis X70. The cap 108 is provided with an axial wall 109 bearing on a free end of the pusher 74, which protrudes from the duct housing 70. The cap 108 can thus press the pusher 74 towards the conduit baffle 14. The actuating member 106 thus actuates the shutter 72 via the push rod 74. The cap 108 is provided with an outer flange 1 10 against which a first end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment. Another end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment against a latch 1 12, fixed in translation with respect to the conduit baffle 14 along the axis X70, via a support assembly 1 14 of the visible housing 6 in figures 1 and 2. the support structure 1 14 form two arms respectively integral with the conduits 8 and 14, each side of the yoke 1 12 being retained on one of those arms. actuator 106 therefore actuates the shutter 72 via the push rod 74. The cap 108 is provided with an outer flange 1 10 against which a first end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment. Another end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment against a latch 1 12, fixed in translation with respect to the conduit baffle 14 along the axis X70, via a support assembly 1 14 of the visible housing 6 in figures 1 and 2. the support structure 1 14 form two arms respectively integral with the conduits 8 and 14, each side of the yoke 1 12 being retained on one of those arms. actuator 106 therefore actuates the shutter 72 via the push rod 74. The cap 108 is provided with an outer flange 1 10 against which a first end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment. Another end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment against a latch 1 12, fixed in translation with respect to the conduit baffle 14 along the axis X70, via a support assembly 1 14 of the visible housing 6 in figures 1 and 2. the support structure 1 14 form two arms respectively integral with the conduits 8 and 14, each side of the yoke 1 12 being retained on one of those arms. an outer flange 1 10 against which a first end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment. Another end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment against a latch 1 12, fixed in translation with respect to the conduit baffle 14 along the axis X70, via a support assembly 1 14 of the visible housing 6 in figures 1 and 2. the support structure 1 14 form two arms respectively integral with the conduits 8 and 14, each side of the yoke 1 12 being retained on one of those arms. an outer flange 1 10 against which a first end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment. Another end of the actuating member 106 is in axial abutment against a latch 1 12, fixed in translation with respect to the conduit baffle 14 along the axis X70, via a support assembly 1 14 of the visible housing 6 in figures 1 and 2. the support structure 1 14 form two arms respectively integral with the conduits 8 and 14, each side of the yoke 1 12 being retained on one of those arms.

Exhibit spiral forming the actuating element 106 is made of a shape memory alloy, such titanium-nickel alloy. In other words, the actuating element 106 is formed by a metal alloy which preferably has two crystallographic phases depending on the temperature, in this case a first phase at low temperature where the element 106 is sufficiently resilient be deformed under the action of the spring 104 and a high-temperature phase in which the element 106 is sufficiently rigid to return to its original shape of the spring meeting 104. with this material, the part 106 has an axial length L, measured along the axis X70 shutter, whose value varies reversibly under the

- a first form, shown in Figure 5, wherein the length L is a minimum value, obtained when the temperature value Tm is less than a critical threshold,

- a second form, shown in Figure 6, wherein the length L is intermediate, and when the obtained value of the temperature Tm reaches the critical threshold, and

- a third embodiment, shown in Figure 7, wherein the length L reaches a maximum value, obtained when the temperature Tm exceeds the threshold.

The value of the threshold depends mainly on the shape memory alloy used. The threshold is chosen for example to about 50 ° C (degrees Celsius). It is possible that the value of the threshold varies by hysteresis effect. Additional elements such as the application of additional forces with the spring 104, such as friction forces or stresses induced by the pressures C1 and M1 flows, on the actuating member 106, are likely to vary its shape and therefore the values ​​of the length L.

In any event, the actuation element 106 is configured to exert opposing forces on the caliper 1 12 and the cap 108 so as to push the shutter 72 from its open position to its closed position and overtravel, counter to the restoring force of the spring 104, depending on the temperature Tm. Thus, when the temperature Tm reaches the critical threshold, the actuating member 106 is deformed according to its second embodiment, which corresponds to a setting of the shutter closing position 72. If the temperature Tm is higher than the value of the critical threshold, the actuating member 106 is deformed according to its third form, and thus causes the shutter 72 to the overtravel position. Conversely,

When the temperature Tm reaches the predetermined threshold, the C2 stream is completely or at least partially interrupted by closure of the second inlet 50, as illustrated in Figures 7 and 8.

The mixing unit of the second embodiment shown in Figures 9 and 10 present similar characteristics with the mixing unit 2 of the first embodiment described above and illustrated in Figures 1 to 8. Similar features of the first and second aforementioned embodiments are designated with a similar plot on the drawing, and / or reference numbers increased by 200.

The mixing unit of the second embodiment of Figures 9 and 10 comprises a preferably identical cartridge to the cartridge 4 described in the first embodiment, so that the cartridge is not shown in Figures 9 and 10, but simply symbolized by a main axis X202 corresponding to the X2 axis. The following description is centered mainly on the differences between the first and second embodiment.

The second embodiment mixing unit includes an additional housing 206. The unillustrated cartridge is fluidly connected to the housing 206 through the upper side 222 thereof.

The additional housing 206 includes a through duct not shown in the Figures 9 and 10 but similar to that described above, and a pipe baffle 214 shown in Figures 9 and 10. The conduit baffle 214 includes an intermediate portion 280 coaxial with a shutter X270 axis perpendicular to the axis X2 of the cartridge. Unlike the first embodiment, the conduit baffle 214 has no cap and is formed integrally.

The housing 206 also includes a conduit 270 coaxial with the housing axis X270. Unlike the first embodiment, the conduit housing 270 is made by assembling. In this case, the housing 6 comprises a base pipe 270A, extending the intermediate portion 280 without area reduction along the axis X270, and opening the outlet of the cartridge. The base duct 270A is formed integrally with the baffle 214. A conduit coaxial with the thread axis X270 is formed along the base pipe 270A, to allow the screwing of a conduit 270B reported therein. Reported the conduit 270B includes a first portion 271 A via which it is screwed into the base pipe 270A. A static seal portion 271 C seals of this screwing.

second portion 271 B of reduced internal cross-section, extending in the passage of the outflow M1, opposite to the intermediate portion 280, and opening at its end.

The housing 206 includes a shutter 272, which is movable in translation along the axis X270 shutter between an open position shown in Figure 9 and a closed position shown in Figure 10, the second input of the not shown cartridge. In this second embodiment, the translation of the shutter 272 is directed toward the outlet when the stopper 272 enters the blocking position from the open position, unlike the first embodiment. Thus, the influence of the pressure of the flow on the C1 position of the shutter 272 is less important.

More specifically, the shutter 272 comprises a closure head 284 in the form of hollow cylinder coaxial with the axis X270. The sealing head 284 has a first end 287, facing towards the pipe housing 270, capable of coming into tight axial abutment with the conduit reported 270B in the closed position, and being spaced from said conduit reported in position 270B opening. The shutter 272 has no overtravel position, unlike the first embodiment, the head 284 coming into axial abutment against the insert pipe 270B in the closed position. The head 284 and 270B leads provide sealing "support" that is to say, as opposed to a sliding or static sealing, a seal between two bodies which at least one is mobile,

In the present example, the ends in contact with the duct reported 270B and head 284 are devoid of lining reported. However, a bearing seal may optionally be provided.

The sealing head 284 also has a second open end opposite the first end 287, through which the flows C1 can be introduced inside the head 284 so as to flow to the first end 287. If the plug 272 is in the open position, the flow advances C1 between the first end 287 and the insert 270B conduit, into the downstream section 282. a sliding seal 285B fixed on the periphery of the head 284 near the second end thereof, provides a shutter, upstream of the downstream portion 282 of the intermediate portion 280 by the head 284 in the closed position.

In addition, the shutter 272 comprises a pusher 274 through which it is slidably mounted according to X270 axis in the portion 271 B. The pusher 274 extends at least partially in the housing 270. A gasket of conduit 'sliding seal 276, formed in this example by only one seal, preferably toroidal, provides a seal to the portion 271 B by the pusher 274. the liner 276 is fixed in translation relative to the duct housing 270, being held axially in a groove of the portion B 271 by a washer 275. the head 284 has lugs 289 through which it is fixed to the plunger 274, while allowing the passage of C1 flows between end 287 and reported conduit 270B in the open position.A return spring 304 is interposed between the washer 275 and the head 284, so as to return elastically the shutter 272 from its closed position towards its open position.

The mixing unit of Figures 9 and 10 also includes an actuating member 306 in a spiral, made of a shape memory alloy, similarly to the first embodiment of Figures 1 to 8. The actuating element 306 is threaded coaxially with the axis X270 around the duct 270 so as to be at least partially disposed at the outlet of the cartridge. In particular, the actuating element 306 is mounted between an abutment ring 307 integral with the projecting end of the plunger 274, and an external shoulder 313 of the base pipe 270A so as to separate the washer 307, and thus the shutter 272, the shoulder 313 as it passes from the first shape to the second shape counter to the return spring 304. the actuating element 306 therefore actuates the

The mixing unit of the third embodiment shown in Figures 1 1 to 13 has similar characteristics with the mixing unit 2 of the first embodiment described above and illustrated in Figures 1 to 8. Similar features of the first and third aforementioned embodiments are designated with a similar plot on the drawing, and / or reference numbers increased by 400.

The mixing unit of the third embodiment of Figures 1 1 to 13 comprises a preferably identical cartridge to the cartridge 4 described in the first embodiment, so that the cartridge is not shown in Figures 1 1 and 13 but merely symbolized by a main axis X402 corresponding to the X2 axis. The following description is centered mainly on the differences between the first and third embodiment.

The mixing unit of the third embodiment of Figures 1 1 to 13 comprises an additional housing 406 having a bottom side 420 and a top side 422. The cartridge, not shown, is fluidically connected to the housing 406 through the side 422. the additional housing 406 includes a through duct 408 with a lower inlet, not visible in the figures, opening surface of the lower side 420, and an intermediate outlet opening 412 on the surface of side 422. the additional housing 406 also includes a conduit baffle 414, with a lower inlet 416

opening on the lower side 420 and an intermediate outlet opening 418 on the upper side 422.

The conduit baffle 414 includes an upstream portion 478, an intermediate portion 480 and a downstream portion 482. In this third embodiment, the housing 406 does not include a plug 90 or of through-hole 91, unlike the first embodiment . Instead, the intermediate portion 480 is closed by a bottom wall 491 which is integral with the rest of the pipe baffle 414.

The housing 406 also includes a duct housing 470 which extends coaxially with a x470 shutter axis, the axis x470 itself being coaxial with the intermediate portion 480 of the conduit duct 414. The baffle housing 470 opens the outlet, not shown, of the cartridge.

The additional housing 406 also includes an actuating member 506 formed of a shape memory alloy. The actuator 506 has a disk-shaped or cone deformable between a first form shown in Figure 1 member 1, a second embodiment shown in Figure 12 and a third shape shown in Figure 13. Due to its form of disk or cone, the actuating member 506 forms a cap and closes the duct housing 470, being attached to the open end of the latter.

More specifically, the actuating member 506 includes a perimeter portion 515 that surrounds the open end of the conduit housing 470 and through which the actuating element 506 is attached to the conduit housing 470. In practice, the perimeter 515 is in axial support portion along the axis x470 against a static seal 517, formed for example by a single O-ring disposed coaxially relative to the axis x470, around the conduit housing 470 .

A bracket 519 maintains the perimeter portion 515 axially along the axis x470 against the gasket 517, which ensures the tightness of the closure of the duct housing 470 by the actuating element 506. The stirrup 519 forms an annular part or U which is axially integral with a support structure 514 similar the support structure January 14 described above for the first embodiment.

The actuating element 506 also includes a central portion 521 centered on the axis x470, inside of the perimeter portion 515, and connected thereto by a deformable surface 523 of the actuating member 506. The deformable surface 523 form in practice a continuous surface accordion, as shown in figures 1 1 to 13, or bellows as shown alternatively in Figure 14. When the element 506 is deformed between its first shape, the second shape and its third form, the central portion 521 is moved under the action of the deformable surface 523, along the axis

of x470 shutter relative to the perimeter portion 515 as shown in Figures 1 1, 12 and 13. In the case of Figures 1 1 to 13, the deformable surface 523 is changing from a visible conical form in Figure 1 1 to a discoid shape shown in FIG 13, so as to bring the central portion 521 of the intermediate portion 480 when the actuator member 506 moves from its first form to its second shape and third shape.

The additional housing 406 also includes a closure 472 comprising an outer part 525 and inner part 527, which are coaxial with the x470 axis, the inner part 527 being generally cylindrical and being nested within the outer piece 525. The outer part 525 comprises a cylindrical wall 474, partially surrounding the outer part 525 and through which the shutter 472 is slidably mounted along the x470 axis in the housing 470. the outer pipe part 525 and its wall cylindrical 474 thus form a pusher belonging to the shutter 472, the plunger extending into the housing 470. a conduit sliding seal 531, formed for example by a single O-ring, is provided between the cylindrical wall 474 and conduit housing 470,so that the shutter 472 is in sealing contact with and sliding the pipe housing 470. The outer part 525 also comprises a shoulder 533 which extends from a first end of the cylindrical wall 474. A rib 534 protrudes from the shoulder so as to come into axial abutment against the perimeter portion 515 of the actuating member 506 and thus define an open position of the shutter 472 shown in Figure 1 1.shoulder so as to come into axial abutment against the perimeter portion 515 of the actuating member 506 and thus define an open position of the shutter 472 shown in Figure 1 1.shoulder so as to come into axial abutment against the perimeter portion 515 of the actuating member 506 and thus define an open position of the shutter 472 shown in Figure 1 1.

The outer part 525 also comprises a transmitting part 535 which connects the shoulder 533 to the central portion 521 of the actuating element 506. The actuating element 506 is thus able to translate along the axis x470 shutter 472 through the transmission portion 535, the shutter 472 being connected in translation to the central portion 521 along the axis of x470 shutter. In practice, the transmission portion 535 has a smaller diameter than the cylindrical wall 474 and includes an internal channel 537 which is fluidly connected to the intermediate portion 480 of the conduit baffle 414 via a through hole 539 provided in a bottom wall 541 of the inner part 527.

introducing fluid flow C1 close to the actuator element 506. The influence of the temperature Te of the deformation of the actuating element 506 is thus limited.

The additional housing 406 includes a collar 486 formed by a chamfer, devoid of seal, arranged in the intermediate portion 480. A sliding seal 545 of corresponding shape is provided on the shutter 472, the lining of seal 545 being formed by a single sliding joint fixed axially along the axis x470 between one end of the cylindrical wall 474 opposite the shoulder 533, and an external shoulder 547 of the inner part 527. Thus, under the action of 'actuating element 506, the shutter 472 moves between an open position shown in Figure 1 1, wherein the seal 545 is spaced from the collar 486 so as to allow the flow passage C1, to a shutter position shown in Figure 12,wherein the obturator 472 closes off the intermediate portion 480 by sealingly contacting the seal 545 with the collar 486. Always under the action of the actuating element 506, the shutter 472 may be translated up 'to an overtravel position, wherein the seal 545 has passed the neck 486 and is in contact with the intermediate portion 480 of the conduit baffle 414, between the neck 486 and the bottom wall 491.seal 545 has passed the neck 486 and is in contact with the intermediate portion 480 of the conduit baffle 414, between the neck 486 and the bottom wall 491.seal 545 has passed the neck 486 and is in contact with the intermediate portion 480 of the conduit baffle 414, between the neck 486 and the bottom wall 491.

The additional housing 406 further comprises a return spring 504 mounted axially along the axis x470 supported between the bottom wall 491 and against the bottom wall 541, so as to exert an elastic restoring force of the shutter 472 from its overtravel position or shutter towards its opening position. In this third embodiment, it is understood that the translation of the shutter 472 is directed away from the outlet of the cartridge, not shown in Figures 1 1 to 13, when the shutter 472 pass through the position of shutter from the open position.

The mixing unit 602 of the fourth embodiment shown in Figures

15-17 has similar characteristics with the mixing unit 2 of the first embodiment described above and illustrated in Figures 1 to 8. The similar characteristics of the first and fourth embodiments above are designated by a similar plot on drawing, and / or reference numbers increased by 600.

The mixing unit 602 of Figures 15 to 17 comprises a cartridge 604 preferably identical to the cartridge 4 described in the first embodiment. The sections of Figures 15 to 17 are performed in a plane orthogonal to a main axis X602, corresponding to the principal axis X2 of the first embodiment, the sectional plane comprising a X670 shutter axis of the mixing unit 602 . the axis X670 corresponding in this case to the axis X70 of shutter of the first embodiment.

A bottom side 632 of the cartridge 604 is visible in Figures 15 to 17, including the cartridge 604 including a first input 48 and a second non-visible entry in Figures 15 to 17.

The mixing unit 602 also includes an additional casing 606 through which the figures of the cutting plane 15 to 17. The additional housing 606 is mounted on the cartridge 604 being fluidly connected to the latter against the side 632 by the through a top of the housing 606, which is not visible in figures 15 to 17.

The additional housing 606 includes a conduit 608 through a conduit and baffle, of which only an intermediate portion 680 is visible in Figures 15 to 17. The intermediate portion 680 extends coaxially with the axis X670 and ends at one end by a bottom wall 691, similar to the bottom wall 491 described for the third embodiment above. The intermediate part 680 is extended by a duct housing 670 at an opposite end of the bottom wall 691. The duct housing 670 opens, opposite the intermediate part 680, at the output 652 of the cartridge 604.

The additional housing 606 includes a shutter 672, which has similarities with the shutter 472, in that it comprises an inner piece 727 and an outer part 725 that hold them axially a sliding seal 745 of corresponding shape to that of a collar 686 of the intermediate portion 680. the shutter 672 moves between an open position shown in Figure 15, a closed position, shown in Figure 16, and an overtravel position, shown in FIG 17. in this embodiment, the translation of the shutter 672 is directed away from the outlet 52 when the shutter 672 passes in the closed position from the open position. As in the case of the shutter 472, the shutter 672 also includes a sliding seal 676 integral with a cylindrical wall 674 of the outer part 725. The outer part 725 and cylindrical wall 674 form a push of the shutter 672, the plunger extending into the conduit housing 670. Unlike the case of the shutter 472, the outer piece 725 of the shutter 672 forms a closed sealing cap sealingly through the seal 676, housing the conduit 670. in particular, the outer member 725 is devoid of blind and through hole. In the open position, the shutter 672 is in axial abutment against a stop 749 formed by a ring axially secured to the open end of the housing duct 670. More specifically, c '

The additional housing 606 also includes a shutter 704 of the return spring 672 from its overtravel position or shutter towards its opening position, the spring 704 being mounted in the same way that the spring 504 of the third embodiment described above.

The mixing unit 602 also includes an actuating member 706 formed of a shape memory alloy. This actuating element 706 comprises two curved blades 751 which are arranged symmetrically relative to each other, relative to a plane of symmetry parallel to the axis X602 and X670 through the axis. The two curved blades 751 are arranged to form an annular actuating element 706.

Each curved blade 751 has a first end 753 located on the axis X670, or in the vicinity thereof. The ends 753 are fixed in translation along the axis X670, in an attachment notch 755 of the cartridge 604. The curved blades 751 have a second end 757, they have in common, and that is opposite to the ends 753 along the axis X670. The curved blades 751 together form an actuating element 706 integrally, being connected by means of their common end 757. The common end 757 is in axial abutment along the axis X670 against the workpiece 725 external of the shutter 672. in particular, end 757 is mounted between two projecting fins 759 of the outer part 725 of which only one is visible in figures 15 to 17, each of these fins 759 extending in a plane parallel to the cutting plane figures 15 to 17. The actuating element 706 is thus connected in translation to the shutter 672 according to axis X602. The outer part 725 also has a notch 761 in which the end 757 is inserted so as to be held radially relative to the X670 axis with respect to the shutter 672.

The ends 753 and 757 are separated by a distance D oriented parallel to the axis X670 shutter. The actuator 706 is made of a shape memory alloy that deforms member between a first form, shown in Figure 15, wherein the distance D has a first value and a second form, shown in Figure 16, wherein the distance D reaches a second value greater than the first value. In practice, the curvature of each of the curved blades 751 has a radius which increases according to the temperature Tm of the outgoing flow M1, which passes through the actuator 706. Thus member, the value of the distance D varies when the element actuator 706 is deformed between the first form and the second form. Consequently, the

shown in Figure 17 wherein the distance D has a third value greater than the second value, so that the shutter 672 is moved into the overtravel position.

Alternatively, the actuating member 706 is formed by a single curved blade 751, or a number of curved blades greater than two.

Alternatively, other shapes than those described above can be provided for the alloy actuating element with shape memory.

In the above, it implements water flow. However, other fluids can be used instead of water, preferably liquid fluid flow. Generally, entry 48 corresponds to an inlet of a first inflow fluid F1 having a first temperature Tf, while the inlet 50 corresponds to an arrival of a second inflow fluid C1 having a second temperature Te is higher than the first temperature Tf. The fluids of the first inflow F1 and the second inflow C1 are preferably identical and liquids, but may however be of different nature. The water escaping from the faucet spout and corresponds to an outflow fluid M1

The various additional box described above may be a separate protection of the cartridge 4.

The characteristics of each embodiment and variant above may be implemented in other embodiments and variations as far as is technically possible.

CLAIMS

1. - mixing unit (2; 602) for a mixer tap, the mixing unit comprising:

- a first input (48) of a first incoming stream (F1) of fluid having a first temperature (Tf),

- a second input (50) of a second inflow (C1) of fluid having a second temperature (Tc) higher than the first temperature,

- mixing means (34) of the first incoming stream with the second incoming stream to form an output stream (M1) having a fluid outlet temperature (Tm),

- an outlet (52) for the outflow,

- a shutter (72; 272; 472; 672) which is mobile in translation along a closing axis (X70; X270; x470; X670), between an open position and a second input position sealing the second input,

- an actuating element (106; 306; 506; 706) of the shutter, which is arranged at least partially at the outlet so as to deform as a function of the outlet temperature, between:

o a first embodiment, to switch the shutter in the open position, and

o a second embodiment, to switch the shutter in the closed position,

the mixing unit (2; 602) being characterized in that the actuating element (106; 306; 506; 706) is made of a shape memory alloy.

2. - Mixing unit (2; 602) according to claim 1, characterized in that the mixing unit comprises a housing conduit (70; 270; 470; 670) which connects the outlet (52) to the second input (50) extending along the closure axis (X70; X270; x470; X670), the shutter (72; 272; 472; 672) comprising a pusher (74; 274; 474; 674) s' extending into the housing duct, via which the actuating element (106; 306; 506; 706) actuates the shutter.

3. - mixing unit (2; 602) according to claim 2, characterized in that the tappet (74; 274; 674) closes the duct housing (70; 270; 670) and in that the mixing unit comprises a sliding seal (76; 276; 676) sealing the filling duct housing by the pusher.

4. - mixing unit (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that the actuating element (106; 306) comprises a part substantially spiral coaxial with the closure axis (X70; X270), the piece spiral having an axial length (L), measured along the closure axis, whose value varies when the actuating element is deformed between the first form and the second form.

5. - The mixing unit (602) according to claim 3, characterized in that the actuating element (706) comprises at least one curved blade (751) having two ends (753, 757) separated by a distance (D ) measured parallel to the closure axis (X70; X270; x470; X670), the value of the distance varying when the actuating element is deformed between the first form and the second form.

6. - mixing unit according to claim 2, characterized in that the actuating element (506) closes the duct housing (470) and in that the mixing unit comprises a static seal (517) of sealing of the closure of the housing driven by the actuating element.

7. - mixing unit according to claim 6, characterized in that the actuating element (506) comprises:

- a perimetral portion (515) surrounding the accommodation conduit (470) and through which the actuating element is fixed to the housing pipe, and

- a central portion (521), which is moved along the closure axis (X70; X270; x470; X670) relative to the perimeter portion when the actuator element is deformed between the first form and its second form, the obturator (472) being connected in translation to the central portion along the closure axis.

8. - mixing unit (2; 602) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the translation of the shutter (72; 472; 672) is directed away from the outlet (52) when the shutter passes in the closed position from the open position.

9. A mixing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the translation of the shutter (272) is directed towards the outlet (52) when the shutter passes in the closed position since the open position.

10. Mixing valve comprising a mixing unit (2; 602) according to any preceding claim.