FR3149306A1 - DE-ICING SYSTEM FOR AN AIRCRAFT SURFACE - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a de-icing system (101), capable of allowing de-icing of a surface (103) of an aircraft (105), comprising a fluid circuit (119) comprising at least: a pressure tank (113), at least one pneumatic de-icing device (109), at least one first switching means (115), at least one second switching means (117), and a pressurized fluid distribution device (111) configured to cause: the delivery of a pressurized fluid to the pneumatic de-icing device (109), via the pressure tank (113) and the switching means (115), and/or a withdrawal of the pressurized fluid from the pneumatic de-icing device (109), via the first switching means (115) and the second switching means (117). Figure for abstract: Fig. 1

Description

DE-ICING SYSTEM FOR AN AIRCRAFT SURFACE

The invention relates to the field of managing a state of a surface of an aircraft. It relates in particular to a de-icing system for a surface of an aircraft and a method of using such a de-icing system.

To eliminate any frost that may be present on the surface of an aircraft, it is known to use de-icing devices whose operation is based on the use of a pressurized fluid, for example pressurized air, otherwise known as pressurized air.

Such de-icing devices must be supplied with pressurized air in order to be able to cause de-icing, often by mechanical action, of a surface of an aircraft on which they are installed.

In the known state of the art, the pressurized air used to supply the de-icing devices is taken from an aircraft engine, for example from an air flow circulating in a turbomachine. This is called engine air sampling.

However, such operation has several drawbacks. Indeed, the engine air sampling has an effect on the aircraft engine speed and therefore on its performance. In addition, the pressurized air sampled has pressure and temperature values higher than those strictly necessary for the operation of the de-icing devices. In addition, the energy consumption linked to the power supply of the de-icing devices is also higher than that necessary, which may require sizing specifically adapted to the needs of the de-icing devices.

Finally, such defrosting devices must be kept under vacuum when no defrosting is required, involving a permanent consumption of air and therefore also a loss of energy.

The present invention provides a solution to these drawbacks.

Thus, one objective of the invention is to propose a defrosting system which does not require the use of engine air sampling while exhibiting optimized efficiency.

• un réservoir sous pression ;
• au moins un dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage ;
• au moins un premier moyen de commutation ; et
• au moins un deuxième moyen de commutation.

For this purpose, the invention according to a first aspect relates to a de-icing system, capable of allowing de-icing of a surface of an aircraft, comprising a fluid circuit integrating at least:

• a pressure tank;
• at least one pneumatic defrosting device;
• at least one first switching means; and
• at least one second switching means.

• une délivrance d’un fluide sous pression au dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage, par l’intermédiaire du réservoir sous pression et du premier moyen de commutation, et/ou
• un retrait du fluide sous pression du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage, par l’intermédiaire du premier moyen de commutation et du deuxième moyen de commutation.

More particularly, the fluid circuit comprises at least one device for distributing fluid under pressure, configured to drive:

• a delivery of a pressurized fluid to the pneumatic defrosting device, via the pressure tank and the first switching means, and/or
• a withdrawal of pressurized fluid from the pneumatic defrosting device, via the first switching means and the second switching means.

Furthermore, the pressurized fluid distribution device may be configured to cause a vacuum to be applied to the pneumatic defrosting device, via the first switching means and the second switching means.

The defrosting system according to the invention may comprise a control unit configured to control a pressurization of the pressure tank, an inflation, a deflation and/or a vacuuming of the pneumatic defrosting device.

• un compresseur, notamment un compresseur électrique, en tant que dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression ;
• au moins un capteur, apte à mesurer une pression du fluide sous pression, au niveau du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage ;
• un clapet anti-retour, notamment chauffé, agencé, dans le circuit fluidique, en sortie du dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression ;
• au moins un moyen de drainage, notamment une vanne de drainage ;
• un limiteur de pression agencé, dans le circuit fluidique, au niveau d’une sortie du réservoir sous pression ; et/ou
• le deuxième moyen de commutation comprend une voie configurée pour permettre une injection de fluide extérieur dans le circuit fluidique, notamment de l’air sous pression issu d’une cabine de l’aéronef.

The defrosting system according to the invention may have one or more of the following features, taken individually or in combination with each other, according to which the defrosting system may comprise:

• a compressor, in particular an electric compressor, as a device for distributing fluid under pressure;
• at least one sensor, capable of measuring a pressure of the pressurized fluid, at the level of the pneumatic defrosting device;
• a non-return valve, in particular heated, arranged in the fluid circuit, at the outlet of the pressurized fluid distribution device;
• at least one means of drainage, in particular a drainage valve;
• a pressure limiter arranged, in the fluid circuit, at an outlet of the pressure tank; and/or
• the second switching means comprises a path configured to allow injection of external fluid into the fluid circuit, in particular pressurized air from a cabin of the aircraft.

• une étape de remplissage, au cours de laquelle un réservoir sous pression est rempli avec du fluide sous pression ;
• une étape gonflage, au cours de laquelle au moins un dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage est gonflé à partir du fluide sous pression contenu dans le réservoir sous pression ; et
• une étape de dégonflage, au cours de laquelle le dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage est dégonflé.

The invention according to a second aspect also relates to a method of using at least one system for de-icing a surface of an aircraft, in particular according to the first aspect, comprising at least:

• a filling step, during which a pressure tank is filled with pressurized fluid;
• an inflation step, during which at least one pneumatic defrosting device is inflated from the pressurized fluid contained in the pressure tank; and
• a deflation step, during which the pneumatic defrosting device is deflated.

• une étape mise sous vide, au cours de laquelle il est prévu une mise sous vide du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage ; et/ou
• une étape de remplissage, au cours de laquelle le réservoir sous pression est rempli avec le fluide sous pression issu des dispositifs pneumatiques de dégivrage ;

In addition, the method of use according to the invention may comprise at least:

• a vacuum stage, during which a vacuum is provided for the pneumatic defrosting device; and/or
• a filling step, during which the pressure tank is filled with the pressurized fluid from the pneumatic defrosting devices;

Furthermore, according to the method of use according to the invention, the inflation step and the deflation step can be repeated successively.

• l’étape de remplissage peut comporter au moins l’une des sous-étapes suivantes consistant en :

• une étape de mesure de pression, au cours de laquelle, un capteur de pression mesure une pression dans le réservoir sous pression ;
• une étape d’activation du dispositif de distribution, au cours de laquelle le dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression est mis en fonctionnement, de sorte à alimenter le réservoir sous pression en fluide sous pression ;
• une étape de configuration en mode « remplissage », au cours de laquelle :

• une sortie d’un premier moyen de commutation reliée à un deuxième moyen de commutation est ouverte ;
• une entrée du premier moyen de commutation reliée au réservoir sous pression, notamment via un limiteur de pression, est fermée ; et
• une sortie du deuxième moyen de commutation reliée au réservoir sous pression est ouverte :

• l’étape de gonflage peut comporter au moins la sous-étape suivante consistant en :

• une étape de configuration en mode « gonflage », au cours de laquelle :

• le deuxième moyen de commutation est fermée ;
• une sortie du premier moyen de commutation reliée au deuxième moyen de commutation est fermée ; et
• une sortie du premier moyen de commutation reliée au dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage est ouverte.

• l’étape de dégonflage peut comporter au moins l’une des sous-étapes suivantes consistant en

• une étape d’activation du dispositif de distribution, au cours de laquelle le dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression est mis en fonctionnement, de sorte à dégonfler et/ou mettre sous vide le dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage ;
• une étape de configuration en mode « dégonflage », au cours de laquelle :

• une entrée du premier moyen de commutation reliée au réservoir sous pression, notamment via le limiteur de pression, est fermée ; et
• une sortie du premier moyen de commutation reliée au deuxième moyen de commutation est ouverte.

Finally, according to various additional features, the method of use according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following features, taken in isolation or in combination with each other, according to which:

• the filling step may comprise at least one of the following sub-steps consisting of:

• a pressure measurement step, during which a pressure sensor measures a pressure in the pressure tank;
• a step of activating the distribution device, during which the pressurized fluid distribution device is put into operation, so as to supply the pressurized tank with pressurized fluid;
• a configuration step in “fill” mode, during which:

• an output of a first switching means connected to a second switching means is opened;
• an input of the first switching means connected to the pressure tank, in particular via a pressure limiter, is closed; and
• an output of the second switching means connected to the pressure tank is open:

• the inflation step may comprise at least the following sub-step consisting of:

• a configuration step in “inflation” mode, during which:

• the second switching means is closed;
• an output of the first switching means connected to the second switching means is closed; and
• an output of the first switching means connected to the pneumatic defrosting device is opened.

• the deflation step may comprise at least one of the following substeps consisting of:

• a step of activating the distribution device, during which the pressurized fluid distribution device is put into operation, so as to deflate and/or evacuate the pneumatic defrosting device;
• a configuration step in “deflation” mode, during which:

• an input of the first switching means connected to the pressure tank, in particular via the pressure limiter, is closed; and
• an output of the first switching means connected to the second switching means is opened.

• la est une représentation schématique d’un mode de réalisation d’un système de dégivrage selon l’invention ; et,
• la est un diagramme de mise en œuvre d’un procédé d’utilisation d’un système de dégivrage selon l’invention.

The invention will be better understood and other characteristics and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description which follows, comprising embodiments given solely as non-limiting examples with reference to the appended figures, which may serve to complete the understanding of the invention and the description of its implementation and, where appropriate, contribute to its definition, in which:

• there is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a defrosting system according to the invention; and,
• there is an implementation diagram of a method of using a defrosting system according to the invention.

There is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a de-icing system 101 according to the invention. Such a de-icing system 101 is intended to ensure de-icing of a surface 103 of an aircraft 105.

In the non-limiting example described with reference to the , the aircraft 105 is equipped with a plurality of deicing systems 101. For the sake of clarity, only one deicing system 101 is visible at the .

As presented, the de-icing system 101 is assigned to the de-icing of the surface 103, in particular of a wing of the aircraft 105.

In general, the invention makes it possible, by means of a de-icing system 101 or a plurality of de-icing systems 101, to eliminate frost from one or more zones of the surface 103 of the aircraft 105.

Furthermore, according to the invention, the different defrosting systems 101 may be independent of each other and/or connected to each other by at least one fluid connection, where appropriate via at least one valve.

According to the present invention, the defrosting system 101 comprises at least one pneumatic defrosting device 109. In the example presented in , the defrosting system 101 comprises four pneumatic defrosting devices 109.

Such a pneumatic defrosting device may be, according to a non-limiting example, a device as described in European patent application EP-A1-3097017, notably called “pneumo-expulse”.

More generally, the pneumatic defrosting device 109 according to the invention is capable of inflating, deflating and/or being placed under vacuum, depending on whether it is supplied by a pressurized fluid or not.

Inflation of the pneumatic deicing device 109 causes deicing of the surface 103 of the aircraft 105 at which the pneumatic deicing device 109 is positioned.

• une délivrance d’un fluide sous pression au dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109, assurant le gonflage du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109, et/ou
• un retrait du fluide sous pression au dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109, assurant le dégonflage du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109.

In addition, the defrosting system 101 also comprises a pressurized fluid distribution device 111, such as in particular a compressor 111, configured to drive

• a delivery of a pressurized fluid to the pneumatic defrosting device 109, ensuring the inflation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109, and/or
• a withdrawal of the pressurized fluid to the pneumatic defrosting device 109, ensuring deflation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109.

According to the invention, the deflation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109 can be complete in the sense that the pneumatic defrosting device 109 is placed under vacuum, via the action of the pressurized fluid distribution device 111.

In a particular embodiment, the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 is an electric compressor.

• un réservoir sous pression 113,
• au moins un premier moyen de commutation 115, en particulier une première vanne 115, notamment une première vanne « trois voies » 115 et
• au moins un deuxième moyen de commutation 117, en particulier une deuxième vanne 117, notamment une deuxième vanne « trois voies » 117.

In the non-limiting example shown, in addition to the elements already described, the defrosting system 101 notably comprises:

• a pressure tank 113,
• at least one first switching means 115, in particular a first valve 115, in particular a first “three-way” valve 115 and
• at least one second switching means 117, in particular a second valve 117, in particular a second “three-way” valve 117.

• stocker le fluide sous pression,
• libérer le fluide sous pression à destination du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109 par l’intermédiaire d’au moins une connexion fluidique.

The pressure tank 113 is supplied with pressurized fluid, in particular pressurized air, by the pressurized fluid distribution device 111. The pressure tank 113 is capable of:

• store the fluid under pressure,
• release the pressurized fluid to the pneumatic defrosting device 109 via at least one fluid connection.

The first switching means 115, respectively the second switching means 117, is capable of allowing circulation of the pressurized fluid from at least a first path of the switching means to at least a second path of the switching means and this in all the configurations made possible by the first switching means 115, respectively the second switching means 117.

The constituent elements of the defrosting system 101, that is to say in particular the pressurized fluid distribution device 111, the pressure tank 113, the first switching means 115, the second switching means 117 and the pneumatic defrosting device 109, are integrated into a fluid circuit 119.

For this purpose, the fluid circuit 119 comprises at least one fluid connection, such as for example pressurized fluid circulation conduits, between the constituent elements of the defrosting system 101 so that the pressurized fluid can circulate from one constituent element of the defrosting system 101 to another constituent element of the defrosting system 101.

• la délivrance du fluide sous pression au dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109, par l’intermédiaire du réservoir sous pression 113 et du premier moyen de commutation 115, et/ou
• le retrait du fluide sous pression et/ou la mise sous vide du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109, par l’intermédiaire du premier moyen de commutation 115 et du deuxième moyen de commutation 117.

In particular, the fluid circuit 119 is such that the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 is capable of driving:

• the delivery of the pressurized fluid to the pneumatic defrosting device 109, via the pressure tank 113 and the first switching means 115, and/or
• the removal of the pressurized fluid and/or the evacuation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109, via the first switching means 115 and the second switching means 117.

• une ligne d’alimentation, symbolisée par des flèches en trait plein 121 sur la , allant du dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression 111 jusqu’au dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109, afin de réaliser l’alimentation du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109 en fluide sous pression, et
• une ligne de retrait, symbolisée par des flèches en trait pointillé 123 sur la , et allant du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109 jusqu’au dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression 111, afin de réaliser le retrait du fluide sous pression et/ou la mise sous vide du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109.

Thus, the fluid circuit 119 comprises:

• a supply line, symbolized by solid arrows 121 on the , extending from the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 to the pneumatic defrosting device 109, in order to supply the pneumatic defrosting device 109 with pressurized fluid, and
• a withdrawal line, symbolized by dotted arrows 123 on the , and extending from the pneumatic defrosting device 109 to the pressurized fluid distribution device 111, in order to carry out the removal of the pressurized fluid and/or the evacuation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109.

In particular, for a portion of the fluid circuit 119 between the pneumatic defrosting device 109 and the first switching means 115, the supply line and the withdrawal line may be constituted by a single fluid connection.

• la ligne d’alimentation constitue une partie aval du circuit fluidique 119 comprise entre le dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression 111 et le dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109 selon le sens d’écoulement du fluide sous pression, et
• la ligne de retrait constitue une partie amont du circuit fluidique 119 comprise entre le dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109 et le dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression 111 selon le sens d’écoulement du fluide sous pression.

Thus configured, the fluid circuit 119 is such that:

• the supply line constitutes a downstream part of the fluid circuit 119 between the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 and the pneumatic defrosting device 109 in the direction of flow of the pressurized fluid, and
• the withdrawal line constitutes an upstream part of the fluid circuit 119 between the pneumatic defrosting device 109 and the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 according to the direction of flow of the pressurized fluid.

• une première connexion fluidique relie le premier moyen de commutation 115 au dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109, afin de réaliser l’alimentation du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109 en fluide sous pression ; et
• une première connexion fluidique relie le dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109 au premier moyen de commutation 115 au dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109, afin de réaliser le retrait du fluide sous pression et/ou la mise sous vide du dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109.

Alternatively, the fluid circuit 119 is configured such that the supply line and the withdrawal line are distinct. Thus,

• a first fluid connection connects the first switching means 115 to the pneumatic defrosting device 109, in order to supply the pneumatic defrosting device 109 with pressurized fluid; and
• a first fluid connection connects the pneumatic defrosting device 109 to the first switching means 115 to the pneumatic defrosting device 109, in order to carry out the removal of the pressurized fluid and/or the evacuation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109.

• le dispositif pneumatique de dégivrage 109 a une connexion fluidique avec le premier moyen de commutation à 115,
• le premier moyen de commutation 115 a une connexion fluidique avec
  • d’une part, le deuxième moyen de commutation 117 et
  • d’autre part, le réservoir sous pression 113, et
• le dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression 111 a une connexion fluidique avec
  • d’une part, le deuxième moyen de commutation 117 et
  • d’autre part, le réservoir sous pression 113.

More specifically, according to the embodiment presented, the fluidic circuit 119 is configured such that:

• the pneumatic defrosting device 109 has a fluid connection with the first switching means at 115,
• the first switching means 115 has a fluid connection with
  • on the one hand, the second switching means 117 and
  • on the other hand, the pressure tank 113, and
• the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 has a fluid connection with
  • on the one hand, the second switching means 117 and
  • on the other hand, the pressure tank 113.

Further, in the non-limiting example shown in , the defrosting system 101 comprises a control unit 127. The control unit 127 is capable of controlling the operation of the defrosting system 101 as a whole, in particular by controlling all or part of the constituent elements of the defrosting system 101, as shown in fine dotted lines 143 on the .

In particular, the control unit 127 implements control laws of the defrosting system 101 which cause the pressurization of the pressure tank 113, the inflation, deflation and/or the evacuation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109.

The control laws can be carried out via logic dedicated to each of the actions of pressurizing the pressure tank 113, of inflation, of deflation and/or of evacuating the pneumatic defrosting device 109, for example by means of specific electronic circuits, in particular included in an electronic box.

In another embodiment, the control laws may be integrated into a remote control system, for example an avionics system of the aircraft 105.

The control unit 127 can also monitor the proper operation of the de-icing system 101. Such monitoring can be carried out by managing the signals from at least one sensor 133 and feeding back information relating in particular to cases of breakdowns at the level of the aircraft 105.

In the non-limiting example shown in , the defrosting system 101 comprises two first switching means 115 respectively connected to two pneumatic defrosting devices 109.

The invention applies more generally to a defrosting system 101 which comprises at least one first switching means 115 having a fluid connection with at least one pneumatic defrosting device 109.

As previously mentioned, in the example shown in , several defrosting systems 101 can be connected, fluidically, by means of at least one isolation valve 125, capable of being controlled by the control unit 127. Thus, pressurized fluid can thus circulate between at least two defrosting systems 101, when the isolation valve 125 is open. In particular, the defrosting system 101 can thus support another defrosting system 101 when the latter is faulty.

In addition, the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 of a first defrosting system 101 may act as a backup pressurized fluid distribution device 111 of a second defrosting system 101 and thereby provide pressurized fluid and/or deflate pneumatic defrosting devices 109 of the second defrosting system 101 and/or to evacuate pneumatic defrosting devices 109 of the second defrosting system 101, in the event of failure of the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 of the second defrosting system 101.

In the non-limiting example shown in , the defrosting system 101 may also comprise at least one sensor 133, in particular a pressure sensor 133, at least one non-return valve 135 and/or at least one pressure limiter 137.

In particular, the sensor 133 is a pressure sensor configured to measure a pressure of the pressurized fluid, at the pneumatic defrosting device 109. In the non-limiting example shown, the sensor 133 can be associated with a pair of pneumatic defrosting devices 109 to measure a value of the pressure at the pneumatic defrosting devices 109.

However, in different embodiments of the invention, the defrosting system 101 comprises at least one sensor 133. The number of sensors 133 and their arrangement are likely to be adapted to the number of pneumatic defrosting devices 109 used and/or to the need to control the operation of the defrosting system 101.

Advantageously, the sensor 133 makes it possible to determine, for example to transmit information to the control unit 127 controlling the defrosting system 101, a pressure value at the pneumatic defrosting device 109 and, consequently, to adapt, if necessary, the control of the constituent elements of the defrosting system 101, in particular by controlling and/or controlling the pressurized fluid distribution device 111.

Additionally, the sensor 133 may also be used to detect pressure failures of the pressurized fluid in the fluid circuit 119.

Furthermore, such a sensor 133 may be positioned at another location in the fluid circuit 119, such as for example at the outlet of the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 and/or at the outlet of the pressurized tank 113 to allow monitoring and, where appropriate, adjustment of the pressure level in the defrosting system 101.

The non-return valve 135 can be arranged, in the fluid circuit 119, at the outlet of the pressurized fluid distribution device 111, that is to say between the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 and the pressure tank 113. The non-return valve 135 makes it possible to block any possible backflow of pressurized fluid towards the pressurized fluid distribution device 111, which would be likely to damage it.

Furthermore, as for the first switching means 115, the second switching means 117 and/or the isolation valve 125 integrated in the de-icing system 101, as equipment intended to be used in the aircraft 105 and potentially subjected to low temperatures, or even negative temperatures, the non-return valve 135 can be heated (for example by means of integrated or non-integrated heating means) to avoid a possible malfunction.

Likewise, for similar reasons, the first switching means 115, the second switching means 117 and/or the isolation valve 125 may be heated to avoid possible malfunction.

Furthermore, the pressure limiter 137 may be arranged, in the fluid circuit 119, at the outlet of the pressure tank 113. Thus, when the pressure tank 113 is full, and/or when the pressure tank 113 has reached a nominal pressure value, i.e. a pressure value intended for the operation of the defrosting system 101, the pressure limiter 137 is capable of allowing evacuation of any additional pressurized fluid potentially delivered by the pressurized fluid distribution device 111. The pressure limiter 137 thus makes it possible to maintain the pressure in the pressure tank 113 at the nominal pressure value.

Typically, when no defrosting is required, the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 may nevertheless be activated to regulate the vacuum level in the pneumatic defrosting device 109, for example following a measurement made by the sensor 133. In such a case, if the pressure tank 113 has already reached the nominal pressure, the pressure limiter 137 may allow the fluid coming from the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 to be evacuated.

Furthermore, the defrosting system 101 may also comprise at least one drainage means 139, in particular a drainage valve 139, to allow evacuation of any condensed water which may be present in the defrosting system 101.

There is an implementation diagram of a method of using 201 the defrosting system 101 such as that described with reference to the .

The method of use 201 comprises at least one filling step 203, during which provision is made for filling the pressure tank 113, consisting of pressurizing the pressure tank 113 with a pressurized fluid, in particular pressurized air.

The method of use 201 may also comprise a vacuum step, during which provision is made for vacuuming at least one pneumatic defrosting device 109. The vacuum step may be carried out after, before or simultaneously with the filling step 203.

• une sortie du premier moyen de commutation 115 reliée au deuxième moyen de commutation 117 est ouverte ;
• une entrée du premier moyen de commutation 115 reliée au réservoir sous pression 113, notamment via le limiteur de pression 137, est fermée ; et
• une sortie du deuxième moyen de commutation 117 reliée au réservoir sous pression 113 est ouverte.

The filling step 203 may include a configuration step in “filling” mode, during which:

• an output of the first switching means 115 connected to the second switching means 117 is open;
• an input of the first switching means 115 connected to the pressure tank 113, in particular via the pressure limiter 137, is closed; and
• an output of the second switching means 117 connected to the pressure tank 113 is open.

• une étape de mesure de pression, au cours de laquelle, le capteur 133 mesure la pression dans le réservoir sous pression 113 ; et/ou
• une étape d’activation du dispositif de distribution, au cours de laquelle le dispositif de distribution de fluide sous pression 111 est mis en fonctionnement, de sorte à alimenter le réservoir sous pression 113 en fluide sous pression.

In addition, the filling step 203 may comprise at least one of the following sub-steps consisting of:

• a pressure measurement step, during which the sensor 133 measures the pressure in the pressure tank 113; and/or
• a step of activating the distribution device, during which the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 is put into operation, so as to supply the pressurized reservoir 113 with pressurized fluid.

More particularly, the step of activating the distribution device provides for an activation of the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 as long as the pressure measured in the pressure tank 113 is lower than the nominal pressure.

Furthermore, optionally, the filling step 203 may comprise, in particular during the configuration step in “filling” mode, an opening step, during which an inlet of the second switching means 117 connected to the outside of the fluid circuit 119 may be opened to reach the nominal pressure in the pressurized tank 113.

The method of use 201 also comprises at least one inflation step 205, during which an inflation, i.e. a supply of pressurized fluid, of the pneumatic defrosting device 109 is provided from the pressurized fluid contained in the pressure tank 113.

• le deuxième moyen de commutation 117 est fermé ;
• une sortie du premier moyen de commutation 115 reliée au deuxième moyen de commutation 117 est fermée ; et
• une sortie du premier moyen de commutation 115 reliée au dispositifs pneumatiques de dégivrage 109 est ouverte.

The inflation step 205 may include a configuration step in “inflation” mode, during which:

• the second switching means 117 is closed;
• an output of the first switching means 115 connected to the second switching means 117 is closed; and
• an output of the first switching means 115 connected to the pneumatic defrosting devices 109 is opened.

Furthermore, the inflation step 205 may provide for an opening of the output of the first switching means 115 connected to the pneumatic defrosting device 109 for a determined duration, so as to ensure the inflation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109 to the nominal pressure. Consequently, when the nominal pressure of the pneumatic defrosting device 109 is reached, the inflation step 205 may provide for a closing of the output of the first switching means 115 connected to the pneumatic defrosting devices 109.

The method of use 201 also comprises at least one deflation step 207, during which deflation and/or evacuation of the pneumatic defrosting device 109 is provided.

The deflation step 207 may include a filling step, during which the pressure tank 113 is filled with the pressurized fluid from the pneumatic defrosting device 109.

The deflation step 207 may comprise at least one step consisting of a step of activating the distribution device, during which the pressurized fluid distribution device 111 is put into operation, so as to deflate and/or place the pneumatic defrosting device 109 under vacuum.

• une entrée du premier moyen de commutation 115 reliée au réservoir sous pression 113, notamment via le limiteur de pression 137, est fermée ; et,
• une sortie du premier moyen de commutation 115 reliée au deuxième moyen de commutation 117 est ouverte.

In addition, the deflation step 207 may include a configuration step in “deflation” mode, during which:

• an input of the first switching means 115 connected to the pressure tank 113, in particular via the pressure limiter 137, is closed; and,
• an output of the first switching means 115 connected to the second switching means 117 is open.

Furthermore, the deflation step 207 may provide for an opening of the output of the first switching means 115 connected to the second switching means 117 for a determined duration, so as to ensure the deflation and/or the vacuuming of the pneumatic defrosting device 109.

In practice, the inflation step 205 and the deflation step 207 can be carried out iteratively and/or repetitively until complete de-icing of the surface 103 concerned of the aircraft 105 is obtained.

Furthermore, when the de-icing system 101 comprises several pneumatic de-icing devices 109 respectively dedicated to different parts of the surface 103 of the aircraft 105, the method of use 201 can provide for simultaneous, successive, alternative or combined activation of the pneumatic de-icing devices 109, of the first switching means 115 and/or of the second switching means 117.

It is thus possible to define at least one defrosting cycle, covering all or part of the surface 103 of the aircraft 105, by dedicated activation of all or part of the pneumatic defrosting devices 109, the first switching means 115 and/or the second switching means 117, during which the inflation step 205 and the deflation step 207 are repeated successively.

Such a defrosting cycle can thus be repeated until the entire surface 103 covered by a defrosting system 101 is treated.

Thus, advantageously, thanks to the arrangement of the different elements consisting of the defrosting system 101 included in the same fluid circuit 119, the pressurized fluid used by the pneumatic defrosting device 109 is sucked up again, during deflation and/or the evacuation of the pneumatic defrosting devices 109, to be stored in the pressurized tank 113.

The defrosting system 101 therefore makes it possible to recycle the fluid so as not to lose energy in recompressing fluid newly injected into the defrosting system 101.

Furthermore, the second switching means 117 may comprise a path configured to allow the injection of external fluid, i.e. external to the fluid circuit 119, into the fluid circuit 119.

Thus, in the embodiment shown, pressurized fluid from another system, for example pressurized air from a cabin of the aircraft 105, symbolized by an arrow 141 on the , is injected into the fluid circuit 119 at the level of the second switching means 117.

The external fluid injected into the fluid circuit 119 then circulates in the fluid circuit 119 and contributes to filling the pressure tank 113 under the effect of the pressurized fluid distribution device 111.

Advantageously, the injection of air from the cabin of the aircraft 105 makes it possible to directly use air at a certain pressure value and to limit or even eliminate the energy required, i.e. consumed by the pressurized fluid distribution device 111, for pressurizing the injected air.

In conclusion, in addition to the absence of engine air sampling resulting from the recycling of the air used by the defrosting system 101, the defrosting system 101 according to the invention also makes it possible to reduce electrical consumption thanks to the recycling of the pressurized fluid used.

Furthermore, the association of several de-icing systems 101 in an assembly makes it possible to obtain a modular assembly meeting a need for multi-zone de-icing while guaranteeing, via redundancy of the de-icing systems 101, a level of safety required associated with use in an aircraft.

Obviously, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and provided solely as examples. It encompasses various modifications, alternative forms and other variants that may be envisaged by those skilled in the art within the framework of the present invention and in particular all combinations of the different operating modes described above, which may be taken separately or in combination.

Claims (13)

De-icing system (101), capable of enabling de-icing of a surface (103) of an aircraft (105), comprising a fluid circuit (119) integrating at least:

• a pressure tank (113),
• at least one pneumatic defrosting device (109),
• at least one first switching means (115), and

• at least one second switching means (117),

characterized in that the fluid circuit (119) comprises at least one pressurized fluid distribution device (111), configured to drive:

• a delivery of a pressurized fluid to the pneumatic defrosting device (109), via the pressure tank (113) and the first switching means (115), and/or
• a withdrawal of the pressurized fluid from the pneumatic defrosting device (109), via the first switching means (115) and the second switching means (117).

Defrosting system (101) according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressurized fluid distribution device (111) is configured to cause a vacuum to be applied to the pneumatic defrosting device (109), via the first switching means (115) and the second switching means (117). Defrosting system (101) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a control unit (127), configured to control a pressurization of the pressure tank (113), an inflation, a deflation and/or a vacuuming of the pneumatic defrosting device (109). Defrosting system (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the pressurized fluid distribution device (111) is a compressor, in particular an electric compressor. Defrosting system (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one sensor (133), capable of measuring a pressure of the pressurized fluid, at the level of the pneumatic defrosting device (109). Defrosting system (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a non-return valve (135), in particular heated, arranged in the fluid circuit (119), at the outlet of the pressurized fluid distribution device (111). Defrosting system (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one drainage means (139), in particular a drainage valve (139). Defrosting system (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a pressure limiter (137) arranged, in the fluid circuit (119), at an outlet of the pressure tank (113). De-icing system (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the second switching means (117) comprises a path configured to allow an injection of external fluid into the fluid circuit (119), in particular pressurized air from a cabin of the aircraft (105). Method of using (201) at least one de-icing system (101) of a surface (103) of an aircraft (105), according to any one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that it comprises at least:

• a filling step (203), in which a pressure tank (113) is filled with pressurized fluid; an inflation step (205), in which at least one pneumatic defrosting device (109) is inflated from the pressurized fluid contained in the pressure tank (113); and
• a deflation step (207), during which the pneumatic defrosting device (109) is deflated.

Method of use (201) according to claim 10, characterized in that it comprises at least one vacuum step, during which a vacuum is provided for the pneumatic defrosting device (109). Method of use (201) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that it comprises at least one filling step, during which the pressure tank (113) is filled with the pressurized fluid from the pneumatic defrosting device (109). Method of use (201) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflation step (205) and the deflation step (207) are repeated successively.