WO2011030358A1

WO2011030358A1 - Aid device for scientific and/or educational activities

Info

Publication number: WO2011030358A1
Application number: PCT/IT2009/000403
Authority: WO
Inventors: Giulio Di Bella
Original assignee: Altay Holding S.P.A.
Priority date: 2009-09-08
Filing date: 2009-09-08
Publication date: 2011-03-17

Abstract

The present invention refers to a technical educational aid device for a scientific field. In particular, the present invention relates to a mobile laboratory, manufactured as a totally self-sufficient cart, allowing to carry out educational experiment activities in all those school situations having no scientific laboratory fitted out for carrying out educational experiments of physics, chemistry, biology, and/or other subjects.

Description

AID DEVICE FOR SCIENTIFIC AND/OR EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

DESCRIPTION

The present invention refers to a technical educational aid device for a scientific field.

In particular, the present invention relates to a mobile laboratory, manufactured as a totally self-sufficient cart, enabling to carry out educational experiment activities in all those school situations having no scientific laboratory fitted out for carrying out educational experiments of physics, chemistry, biology, and/or other subjects.

It is well-known that the best way to learn science subjects is by being able to study them concomitantly experimenting what is taught theoretically. On the other hand, this is only possible on those school structures provided with equipped educational laboratories.

As it is known, in the real world it is not always like that. Instead, observing the situation on a global scale, structures allowing for a complete education are certainly a minority. In fact, it suffices to look at most suburban schools, or those of developing Countries, to appreciate the extreme and minimal conditions under which teaching is imparted.

Hence, the present invention lies within this scope, with the object of solving the abovementioned problems, by providing an educational aid device as defined in independent claim 1.

Preferred features of the present invention are set forth in the corresponding dependent claims thereof.

The present invention entails several evident advantages that, along with its features and operation modes, will be made apparent in the following detailed description of an embodiment thereof, given by way of example and not for limitative purposes. Reference will be made to the figures of the annexed drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 is an overall perspective view of a device according to the present invention;

Figures 2 and 3 illustrate the arrangement of the scientific and educational equipment inside the compartments; - Figure 4 is a block diagram of a power supply for a device according to the present invention;

Figure 5 illustrates ancillary power supply means for a device according to the present invention;

- Figure 6 is a block diagram of ancillary power supply means;

- Figure 7 illustrates the positioning of the ancillary POWER SUPPLY UNIT inside a device according to the present invention;

- Figures 8 and 9 show the hydraulic system of a device according to the present invention; and

- Figures 10, 1 1 and 12 overall illustrate the main features of the device according to the present invention.

The following description makes reference to the above-indicated figures.

Referring initially to Figure 1 , it shows an aid device 100 according to the present invention.

The device 100 comprises a frame 101 , preferably mounted on wheels 102 in order to enable a simple displacement of the device itself. The frame 101 houses a plurality of compartments 7 for housing scientific and or educational instrumentation.

According to the embodiment shown herein, though purely by way of example, the device provides five wide sliding drawers 7 for carrying and storing the full set of educational equipment needed for an entire course, as shown in the next figures 2 and 3. The equipment can advantageously be inserted in suitable pre-formed elements of protective foam, also allowing its rational grouping by science subjects.

Experiment equipment content may vary, depending on typology of activity to be carried out, school and school age bracket. Hence, though features, overall dimensions and service dispensing provided by the device remain unvaried, equipment content may change each time.

Anyhow, inside each drawer, two extractable trays 103 are preferably obtained, containing equipment related to a specific science topic. Accordingly, on the basis of the experiment or activity to be carried out by the teacher, it suffices to extract the specific tray to have at hand all materials needed for that given experiment.

The device according to the present invention further comprises a hydraulic system and power supply means.

The power supply means comprises a power supply 105 whose block diagram is shown in Figure 4.

The power supply 105 is preferably stably inserted inside one of the service compartments of the device and constitutes the standard power supply source, in the common case of an outlet being available at the site of use.

The power supply 105 has an input stage 106 connectable to mains, and one or more outputs 107.

The input stage 106 is advantageously made compatible with different mains, each mains exhibiting different characteristic voltage and frequency values. The input stage 106 is characterized by a universal mains supply system which self- adjusts to the locally existing mains voltage value, allowing correct operation with input voltage values ranging between 90 Vac and 250 Vac and with a mains frequency of 50 Hz, or of 60 Hz.

This variability range encompasses substantially all mains voltage and frequency standards currently existing worldwide, allowing to connect the device to any outlet whatsoever, without having to worry about locally existing mains voltage and frequency values.

At the output, the power supply is adapted to stably provide predefined voltage and frequency values, independently of the input mains. Preferably, the power supply output is AC, 220V and 50Hz.

However, advantageously more than one AC type output may be provided, therefore, the power supply may, e.g., have a further 120V, preferably 50 Hz, AC output.

Advantageously, AC output frequency may also be set (e.g., at the factory) at 60 Hz (for countries having this frequency regimen, such as the U.S.).

Moreover, also a DC type output may advantageously be provided, preferably voltage-adjustable between 0 and 12 V and/or current-adjustable, between 0 and 8 A.

The following Table 1 contains a legend of the main components of the power supply, with reference to part numbering as indicated in Figure 4.

Table 1

1 INPUT TO MAINS CONNECTOR

2 GENERAL PROTECTION 5A FUSE

LOGIC CIRCUIT, DETECTING MAINS VOLTAGE PRESENCE/ABSENCE Activates relay 4, exchanging input connectors 1 and 13.

In the working position (L), mains connector 1 (mains input) is switched on.

3 In the resting position (R), mains connector 13 (self-contained external unit input) is switched on.

4 INPUT CONNECTOR SWITCHING RELAY

5 GENERAL POWER SWITCH

6 MODIFIED SINE-WAVE AC-AC INVERTER- 300 VA POWER

The inverter has a self-adjusting input to mains (90/250 Vac, 50 or 60 Hz frequency).

The switching control circuit drives a 300 W ferrite transformer with 120 VAC/220 V secondaries, preferably at a 50 Hz frequency.

The two output voltages are stabilized with respect to mains input changes. Maximum absorption is electronically limited, so as to protect outputs from overloads and short circuits.

7 WATER DELIVERY PUSH BUTTON (Activates the submersed pump plugged into the water delivery tank)

8 OUTLET FOR SUBMERSED WATER PUMP

9 220 Vac OUTLET (for any power-supplying of 220 Vac external equipment)

10 120 Vac OUTLET (for any power-supplying of 120 Vac external equipment)

11 VARIABLE SWITCHING POWER SUPPLY, FROM 0 to 12 Vdc, 8A Max

12 0 4 mm OUTPUT TERMINALS FOR VARIABLE DC POWER SUPPLY 13 INPUT CONNECTOR FOR EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY UNIT

14 ANCILLARY OUTLET FOR RECHARGING BATTERY OF EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY UNIT

Should the site of use be not power-serviced, a frequent occurrence in developing countries, in order to power-supply the device alternative power sources ought to be resorted to.

For this purpose, the device according to the present invention further comprises an ancillary power supply unit 110, adapted to provide at least one stabilized AC type output, to generate locally lacking mains voltage. Such an ancillary power supply unit is schematically shown in Figure 5, and a block diagram thereof is reported in Figure 6.

The ancillary power supply unit 110 comprises a group of rechargeable batteries, adapted to power-supply a DC/AC conversion stage in order to provide said stabilized AC output; preferably, a 300W DC-AC inverter, transforming a 12 Vdc direct voltage of the internal battery into a 220 Vac, 50 Hz alternating voltage.

E.g., the group of batteries may comprise a 12 Vdc, about 24 A/h rechargeable sealed GEL battery.

The ancillary power supply unit 110 further comprises one or more battery chargers, each adapted to be power-supplied from an external power source. These battery chargers are effectively utilized to recharge the group of batteries, exploiting power source/s available at the site of use.

Such a source, by way of example, is selectable among:

- mains;

- photovoltaic generator;

- wind-driven generator.

Once battery charging has been carried out, the ancillary power supply unit 1 10 is inserted into one of the service compartments of the device, as shown in Figure 7, and connected to connectors 13 and 14 of the internal stationary power supply, ensuring an autonomy of operation of 5 to 8 hours, depending on the load applied. Connector 14 transfers the alternating voltage generated by the external group to the mains input of the internal group, which thus can be power-supplied even in the absence of mains voltage.

Battery can be buffer-recharged in a reverse direction, through connector 13, when the cart is connected to an outlet.

In this mode the ancillary group works as a standard UPS unit, allowing to have normal operation of all services even in case of a prolonged current blackout.

Hereinafter, in Table 2 a legend of the main components of the ancillary power supply means is reported, with reference to the part numbering as indicated in Figure 6.

Table 2

15 INPUT CONNECTOR FOR EXTERNAL WIND-DRIVEN GENERATOR

16 CIRCUIT FOR BATTERY RECHARGING FROM WIND-DRIVEN GENERATOR

17 INPUT CONNECTOR FOR EXTERNAL PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL

18 CIRCUIT FOR BATTERY RECHARGING FROM PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL

19 MAINS INPUT CONNECTOR

(Allowed values: 95-250 Vac, 50Hz or 60 Hz frequency)

20 CIRCUIT FOR BATTERY RECHARGING FROM MAINS

(110/125 Vac or 220/240 Vac)

21 RECHARGING CIRCUIT PROTECTION DIODES

22 BATTERY CHARGE CONTROL CIRCUIT (controls relay 23)

Working position L if battery is exhausted

Resting position R if battery is fully charged

23 ON/OFF RELAY FOR BATTERY RECHARGING CIRCUITS

activated by battery charge control circuit

24 SEALED GEL BATTERY, 12 V, 25 A/h

25 RELAY FOR INPUTTING DC POWER SUPPLY TO DC-AC INVERTER

26 DC - AC INVERTER START PUSH BUTTON 27 ON/OFF MAIN SWITCH

28 DC - AC INVERTER

Power: 300 W,

Input voltage: 12 Vdc

Output voltage: 220 Vac, 50 Hz

29 220 Vac INVERTER OUTPUT CONNECTOR

Furthermore, the device according to the present invention is equipped with a self-contained hydraulic system.

Referring to next Figures 8 and 9, such a hydraulic system comprises hydraulic supply means and drain means. In particular, the hydraulic supply means comprises a delivery tank 120 and an electric pump for sucking fluid from said delivery tank 120.

The pump feeds a faucet 132 placed upon a sink 139, whereas the drain 123 of the sink is connected to the drain means, in particular to a drain tank 121 for drained fluid recovery.

Advantageously, the faucet 132 has an arm equipped with a foldaway retractable mechanism.

The sink, preferably made of anti-acid polypropylene, is fastened to a work plane 140 of the device, preferably made of HPL, by means of a gasket.

Advantageously, means (not shown in the figures) for covering the sink 139 may be provided, such as to substantially fit in with the work plane 140 in order to increase the surface of the latter when sink use is not required.

In addition, the device according to the present invention may further comprise one or more retractable rods 131 , of help for carrying out educational activities.

Lastly, Figures 10, 11 and 12 overall illustrate the main features of the device according to the present invention.

In particular, reference may be made to the following Table 3, containing a legend of the components illustrated in Figures 10, 11 and 12. Table 3

It is understood that each single component described hereto is, taken individually, within the reach of a person skilled in the art. Hence, it is deemed unnecessary to delve further into the constructive detail. On the contrary, it is the combination of parts, made in order to concomitantly solve a plurality of different technical problems, which constitutes the most innovative aspect of what has been described hereto.

The present invention has been hereto described with reference to a preferred embodiment thereof. It is understood that other embodiments might exist, all falling within the concept of the same invention, and all comprised within the protective scope of the claims hereinafter.

Claims

1. An aid device (100) for scientific and/or educational activities, comprising

- a frame (101) adapted to house a plurality of compartments (70) for housing scientific and/or educational instrumentation;

- a hydraulic system; and

- power supply means (105, 110).

2. The device according to claim 1 , comprising an upper work plane (140).

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said frame (110) is mounted on wheels (102), enabling a simple displacement of the device (100).

4. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said power supply means (105, 110) comprises a power supply (105) having an input stage (106) connectable to mains, and one or more outputs (107).

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein said input stage (106) is compatible with one or more mains, each mains exhibiting different characteristic voltage and frequency values.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein said power supply (105) is adapted to stably provide, on said one or more outputs, predefined voltage and frequency values, independently of the input mains.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein said one or more outputs (107) comprises at least one AC type output (9, 10, 14).

8. The device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein said one or more outputs (107) comprises at least one DC type output (12).

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein said at least one DC type output (12) is voltage- and/or current-adjustable.

10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising ancillary power supply means (110), adapted to provide a stabilized AC output (29).

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein said ancillary power supply means (110) comprises a group of rechargeable batteries (24), adapted to power-supply a DC/AC conversion stage (28) in order to provide said stabilized AC output (29).

12. The device according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein said ancillary power supply means (110) further comprises one or more battery chargers (16, 18, 20), each adapted to be power-supplied from an external power source.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein said external power source is selectable among:

- mains

- photovoltaic generator;

- wind-driven generator.

14. The device according to any one of the claims 10 to 13, wherein said input stage (106) of said power supply (105) is compatible with said stabilized AC output (29) of said ancillary power supply means (110).

15. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said hydraulic system comprises hydraulic supply means and drain means.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein said hydraulic supply means comprises a delivery tank (120) and an electric pump for sucking fluid from said delivery tank (120).

17. The device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein said drain means comprises a drain tank (121).

18. The device according to any one of the claims 15 to 17, wherein said hydraulic system comprises a sink (139) equipped with faucet ( 32) and drain (123), said faucet (132) being fed by the delivery pump and said drain (123) being connected to said drain tank (121).

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein said faucet (132) has an arm equipped with a foldaway retractable mechanism.

20. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a work plane (1 0).

21. The device according to claim 20 when dependent from one of the claims 18 or 19, further comprising means for covering said sink (139), such as to substantially fit in with said work plane (140).

22. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more retractable rods (131), of help for carrying out educational activities.

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