Abstrict A device for pressurized contents and an associated method. The
device includes a container and a port assembly. In one aspect,
the port assembly includes a body, a plunger, a seal arrangement,
a plunger bias device, and a bushing. The plunger is movable and
has a conduit for contents flow. The bushing moves the plunger,
against the bias device, from the first plunger to a second plunger
position to open the seal arrangement during movement of the bushing
to permit contents flow. In another aspect, the device is transportable,
and a valve assembly flow controller includes a valve, a regulator,
and a flow meter. The device includes a protective housing, coupled
to the container, enshrouding the flow controller to protect the
flow controller from impact and transmit impact forces to the container.
The housing is configured to permit access to the flow controller
and inspection of the container and port connection to verify leak
tightness with the housing coupled to the container.
Claims What is claimed:
1. A device for pressurized contents, the device including: a container
having a hollow interior for location of the contents therein; and
a port assembly for selective conveyance of contents between an
exterior of the container and the container interior, the port assembly
including: a body having a hollow passageway that extends from the
container exterior toward the container interior; a movable plunger
within the passageway of the body, the plunger having a conduit
through which the contents may flow; a seal arrangement between
the plunger and the body to prevent conveyance of the contents though
the conduit of the plunger at a first plunger position and permit
conveyance of the contents though the conduit of the plunger at
a second plunger position; a plunger bias device that biases the
plunger into the first plunger position; and a movable bushing axially
movable with respect to the entire body and at least partially positioned
within the passageway of the body, the bushing located between the
movable plunger and the container exterior, the bushing including
a conduit through which the contents may flow, the bushing moving
the plunger from the first plunger position to the second plunger
position during axial movement of the bushing with respect to the
body from a first bushing position to a second bushing position.
2. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the port assembly
is a fill port assembly, the bushing being configured to be moved
from the first bushing position to the second bushing position by
connection of a contents-supplying component to the port assembly.
3. A device as set forth in claim 1 including a bushing bias device
that biases the bushing into the first bushing position.
4. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the conduit of the
plunger includes an opening though the plunger.
5. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the conduit of the
bushing includes an opening through the bushing.
6. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the sealing arrangement
includes a seal, mounted for movement with the plunger, which mates
in sealing engagement with a seat surface on the body.
7. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the plunger engages
and slides relative an interior wall of the body, the conduit of
the plunger extends from an end portion of the plunger most proximate
to the container exterior to a location adjacent to the sealing
arrangement.
8. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the conduit of the
plunger and the conduit of the bushing include portions aligned
with each other.
9. A device as set forth in claim 1 including a sealing ring located
adjacent to the bushing.
10. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the bushing is located
within the passageway of the body.
11. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the bushing moves
a distance toward the second bushing position before causing movement
of the plunger toward the second plunger position.
12. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the plunger bias
device includes an end portion located within the body.
13. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the bushing is adapted
to engage the plunger to move the plunger from the first plunger
position to the second plunger position.
14. A portable device for holding pressurized contents, the device
including: a transportable container having a hollow interior for
location of the contents therein; a flow controller, operatively
connected to the container and being transportable therewith, including
a valve for selectively permitting passage of contents, a regulator
for controlling pressure of flow of the contents, and a flow meter
for monitoring and controlling the rate of flow; and a protective
housing, coupled to the container and transportable therewith, enshrouding
the operatively connected flow controller to protect the flow controller
from impact and transmit impact forces to the container, the protective
housing being configured to permit access to and operation of the
flow controller with the protective housing coupled to the container.
15. A device as set forth in claim 14 wherein the configuration
of the protective housing includes at least one opening through
which at least one of the valve, the regulator, and the flow meter
is accessible or viewable.
16. A device as set forth in claim 14 wherein the flow controller
includes a fill port, the protective housing being configured to
permit access to and operation of the fill port with the protective
housing coupled to the container.
17. A device as set forth in claim 14 wherein the protective housing
includes a handle.
18. A device as set forth in claim 14 including a shield that
provides the coupling between the protective housing and the container.
19. A device as set forth in claim 18 wherein the shield is configured
to deform upon transmission of impact force from the protective
housing.
20. A method for providing pressurized contents to a container
device, the method including: providing the device that has a container
with a hollow interior for location of the contents therein, and
a port assembly for selective conveyance of contents between an
exterior of the container and the container interior; bringing a
supply line into operative engagement with the port assembly, including:
engaging the supply line to a body of the port assembly that has
a hollow passageway that extends from the container exterior toward
the container interior, engaging the supply line against a movable
bushing, which is at least partially positioned within the passageway
and which has a conduit through which the contents may flow, to
move the bushing with respect to the body from a first bushing position
to a second bushing position, moving a movable plunger, located
within the passageway of the body and having a conduit through which
the contents may flow, via movement of the bushing such that the
plunger moves from a first plunger position to a second plunger
position against the bias of a plunger bias device, and opening
a seal arrangement, which is located between the plunger and the
body, as the plunger moves from the first plunger position to the
second plunger position, to permit conveyance of the contents though
the conduit of the plunger.
21. A method as set forth in claim 20 wherein the bushing moves
a distance toward the second bushing position before causing movement
of the plunger toward the second plunger position.
22. A method as set forth in claim 20 wherein the movement of
the bushing from the first bushing position to the second bushing
position is against the bias of a bias device.
23. A method as set forth in claim 20 wherein the plunger bias
device includes an end portion located within the body.
24. A method for providing pressurized contents to a container
device, the method including: providing the device that has a container
with a hollow interior for location of the contents therein, and
a port assembly for selective conveyance of contents between an
exterior of the container and the container interior; bringing a
supply line into operative engagement with the port assembly, including:
engaging the supply line to a body of the port assembly that has
a hollow passageway that extends from the container exterior toward
the container interior, engaging the supply line against a movable
bushing, which is located within the passageway and which has a
conduit through which the contents may flow, to move the bushing
from a first bushing position to a second bushing position. moving
a movable plunger, located within the passageway of the body and
having a conduit through which the contents may flow, via movement
of the bushing such that the plunger moves from a first plunger
position to a second plunger position against the bias of a plunger
bias device, and opening a seal arrangement, which is located between
the plunger and the body, as the plunger moves from the first plunger
position to the second plunger position, to permit conveyance of
the contents though the conduit of the plunger, wherein the movement
of the bushing from the first bushing position to the second bushing
position is against the bias of a bias device.
Description RELATED APPLICATION
Benefit of priority of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
60/452376 filed Mar. 6 2003 is claimed and the disclosure is incorporated
herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed in general to containment of
a gas, and more particularly to a refillable gas containment and
delivery system having a controller for gas flow into and out of
a cylinder. The fluid flow controller has novel aspects and/or is
protected by a protective housing that at least partially shrouds
the fluid flow controller.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Cylinders containing a compressed gas can be found in environments
such as manufacturing, research, production or synthesis facilities,
hospitals, labs, classrooms, or any environment where a source of
the desired gas is not otherwise available. The cylinders have a
wide range of sizes and shapes, and are adapted to hold a particular
type of gas. Most cylinders are a generally upright container having
a flat bottom to allow the cylinder to rest vertically on a level
surface. At the top of the cylinder is a port through which the
compressed gas leaves the cylinder, typically through a valve installed
on the cylinder by the gas supplier, and then through a regulator
and/or flow meter installed by the end user and adapted to control
the flow of gas from within the cylinder to the application point.
Such cylinders are commonly employed to transport calibration gases,
for example, to calibrate instruments, air monitors and safety systems
at remote locations.
Gas cylinders are transported to an end user by a supplier at a
time when the end user desires the gas. There are two types of gas
cylinders used for portable and other calibration purposes. A type
1 cylinder is a refillable cylinder, which generally, but not always,
provides protection to the valve by means of a metal cylinder cap.
Refilling certain type 1 cylinders is typically accomplished through
a fill port that must be engaged by a compatible fitting projecting
from a supply line. During refilling, the fittings allow gas to
flow from an external source through the cylinder valve into the
cylinder. These fittings are commonly found on refilling devices
that adhere to standardized thread designs that are available to
end users to potentially enable the end users to attempt refilling
of the cylinders when desired, possibly with an inappropriate gas.
Many type 1 cylinders and type 2 cylinders, discussed below, do
not have any means at all to prevent unauthorized refill of the
cylinders.
A type 2 cylinder is the so-called "disposable" cylinder
that generally provides no valve protection, as there is generally
no metal cap with a type 2 cylinder. The metal cap, as found in
some type 1 cylinders, is designed to protect the cylinder valve
from contact with, and damage from, foreign bodies, encountered
in a fall, drop or other impact of the cylinder valve during such
an accidental event. Typically, gas is delivered to the end user
in suitable quantities to satisfy the end user's needs for a period
of time. Several gas cylinders are usually stored at the end user's
location at any given time to ensure the availability of the gas
when it is needed. As the contents of the cylinders are consumed,
the pressure gradient between the interior of the cylinder and the
ambient environment is no longer large enough to allow a user to
withdraw gas from within the cylinder. At such a time, the cylinder's
contents become consumed, and the cylinders are returned to storage
at the end user's location to await final disposition. A substantial
number of end users simply throw away disposable cylinders when
the contained gas has been consumed, whether or not the cylinders
are properly processed for disposal according to Federal, State
and local regulations.
A technician must install the flow meter along with the regulator,
which are not typically supplied integral to the cylinder valve
by the supplier of the gas cylinders. Thus, a supply of properly
functioning regulators and flow meters of varying pressure reducing
and flow regulating characteristics must be maintained by the technician,
or the technician's employer, to ensure proper delivery of the gas
from the cylinder.
After installing the regulator, a technician calibrating an instrument,
for example, will supply a quantity of gas having a known concentration,
or another known property, from within the cylinder to the instrument,
and the response of the instrument monitored. The response of the
instrument is observed and compared to the concentrations of gas(es)
within the cylinder as listed on the cylinder label. Automatic or
manual adjustment of the instrument is made so that these values
agree. Great care must be exercised on the part of the technician
to prevent the exposed valve, flow meter and regulator from impacting
a foreign object. A sufficiently strong impact may shear any of
the valve, flow meter or regulator from atop the cylinder, causing
a sudden release of the cylinder's contents. Pressurized cylinders
having the valve, flow meter or regulator sheared off during a fall
or otherwise striking a foreign body, have been known to become
dangerous due to the sudden thrust from the pressure release. In
such cases, the cylinder can become a projectile.
In type 2 or disposable cylinders, once the cylinders' contents
have been consumed, the cylinders are to be properly recycled or
discarded. Due to the sometimes potential and actual hazardous nature
of the cylinders' contents, recycling the cylinders is problematic,
and can cost from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars for
each cylinder. End users operating on a limited budget may often
stockpile many cylinders until an alternative use, or a cheaper
avenue of disposal arises. The stockpile of consumed cylinders is
often neglected and exposed to the elements, which causes the cylinders
to degrade over time. As the cylinders degrade, cracks or leaks
may develop and allow residual traces of gas to escape the cylinder
into the surrounding environment. Further, consumed cylinders may
tip or otherwise be knocked over, once again breaching the integrity
of the cylinders, possibly allowing residual traces of gas to escape,
as well as producing the projectile effect aforementioned.
To maximize portability, and minimize weight, the type 2 or so-called
disposable cylinders have been developed to be discarded upon consumption.
These are commonly used to provide a one time supply of gas to an
end user who has few alternatives for a portable gas supply other
than gas contained within a disposable cylinder. The disposable
cylinders are frequently discarded as solid waste when they are
consumed. Once again, though, due to the often hazardous nature
of the cylinders' contents, facilities that accept consumed cylinders
typically charge large disposal fees. Further, discarding the disposable
cylinders contributes to the growing accumulation of solid waste
at disposal sites. As a result, there is frequent confusion on the
part of end users as to how to properly dispose of or recycle "disposable"
cylinders when the contents have been fully or partially consumed.
Alternative uses for compressed gas cylinders developed by the
end user are often beyond the intended use of the cylinders when
they were originally designed. Attempts by the end user to refill
a cylinder may subject the cylinder to unsafe high pressures or
to hazardous materials for which the cylinder was not designed.
A corrosive gas stored in a cylinder designed for an inert gas,
for instance, can degrade seals or gaskets of the cylinder and allow
the improperly stored gas to escape to the atmosphere. Such a release
can cause irreparable damage to the environment, and can be hazardous
if inhaled. Refilling of disposable cylinders is prohibited by the
United States Department of Transportation and there are heavy fines
for offenders as well as potential jail sentences.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It would be beneficial to provide a low-cost flow controller for
a compressed gas cylinder, the flow controller being protected by
a housing that will minimize damage to the flow controller due to
impacts on the housing. The flow controller should be accessible
with the housing in place, and should include a valve to open and
close the port, thereby turning the supply of gas from the cylinder
on and off, and a regulator and flow meter to vary the flow rate
of gas from the cylinder, the varying flow rate being displayed
by a visual indicator. Further, there is a need for the valve, flow
meter and regulator combination to be provided with a filling port
that is accessible with the housing in place to allow the cylinder
to be refilled by an appropriate party while inhibiting the ability
of others to refill the cylinder with a possibly inappropriate material.
Refilling cylinders capable of such a refill is prohibited by anyone
other than the cylinder's owner or officially designated refiner
per United States Department of Transportation regulations. The
housing should be coupled to the flow controller by an impact energy
absorbing deformable shield having observation ports to allow inspection
and verification of leak tightness of the connection of the flow
controller with the cylinder. To make the flow controller and cylinder
combination portable, the housing should also include a handle specifically
designed to permit a safe and comfortable grip for hand carrying
and a feature to which a carrying strap can be attached. Many technicians
carry type 1 and 2 cylinders with the regulator attached. This increases
the danger of valve shear if dropped due to the longer valve regulator
dimension which serves to increase the torque experienced by the
cylinder and valve interface during impacts. Thus the handle and
carrying strap comprise an important improvement in safety.
In accordance with one aspect, the present invention provides a
device for pressurized contents. The device includes a container
that has a hollow interior for location of the contents therein.
The device includes a port assembly for selective conveyance of
contents between an exterior of the container and the container
interior. The port assembly includes a body that has a hollow passageway
that extends from the container exterior toward the container interior.
A plunger of the port assembly is movable within the passageway
of the body. The plunger has a conduit through which the contents
may flow. The port assembly includes a seal arrangement between
the plunger and the body to prevent conveyance of the contents though
the conduit of the plunger at a first plunger position and permit
conveyance of the contents though the conduit of the plunger at
a second plunger position. A plunger bias device of the port assembly
biases the plunger into the first plunger position. The port assembly
includes a movable bushing within the passageway and located between
the movable plunger and the container exterior. The bushing includes
a conduit through which the contents may flow. The bushing moves
the plunger from the first plunger to the second plunger position
during movement of the bushing from a first bushing position to
a second bushing position.
In accordance with another aspect, the present invention provides
a portable device for holding pressurized contents. The device includes
a transportable container having a hollow interior for location
of the contents therein. The device includes a flow controller that
is operatively connected to the container and being transportable
therewith. The flow controller includes a valve for selectively
permitting passage of contents, a regulator for controlling rate
of flow of the contents, and a variable, selectable flow meter for
monitoring the rate of flow. The device includes a protective housing,
coupled to the container and transportable therewith, enshrouding
the operatively connected flow controller to protect the flow controller
from impact and absorb and transmit impact forces to the container,
reducing the possibility of valve shearing. The protective housing
is configured to permit access to and operation of the flow controller
with the protective housing coupled to the container.
In accordance with another aspect, the present invention provides
a method for providing pressurized contents to a container device.
The method includes providing the device that has a container with
a hollow interior for location of the contents therein, and a port
assembly for selective conveyance of contents between an exterior
of the container and the container interior. A supply line is brought
into operative engagement with the port assembly. This step includes
engaging the supply line to a body of the port assembly that has
a hollow passageway that extends from the container exterior toward
the container interior, engaging the supply line against a movable
bushing, which is located within the passageway and which has a
conduit through which the contents may flow, to move the bushing
from a first bushing position to a second bushing position, moving
a movable plunger, located within the passageway of the body and
having a conduit through which the contents may flow, via movement
of the bushing such that the plunger moves from a first plunger
position to a second plunger position against the bias of a plunger
bias device, and opening a seal arrangement, which is located between
the plunger and the body, as the plunger moves from the first plunger
position to the second plunger position, to permit conveyance of
the contents though the conduit of the plunger.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present
invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which
the present invention relates upon reading the following description
with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which:
FIG. 1 is a first side view of an example device for holding pressurized
contents, and which includes a container for the contents, a unitary
flow controller, and a protective housing in accordance with one
aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a second side view of the example device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a third side view of the example device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is downward-looking perspective view of the example device
of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is downward-looking perspective view of a device that has
unitary flow controller, either as a partially assembled state of
the device of FIG. 1 or as an example device itself, in accordance
with another aspect of the present invention, and shows a supply
line coupled to a fill port of the unitary flow controller;
FIG. 6 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the device of FIG.
5 and the supply line;
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional, partial view of an example device,
which may be a portion if either of the devices of FIG. 1 or 5
or which is an example itself that is in accordance another aspect
of the present invention, and shows details of a fill port of a
flow controller and a shield associated with a protective housing
(not shown);
FIG. 8 is view similar to FIG. 7 but with the supply line connected
to the fill port of the flow controller; and
FIG. 9 is an illustrative view of a device in accordance with the
present invention, which is being connected by a technician for
delivery at the desired flow rate of gas to an instrument being
calibrated in the field.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is
not to be taken as a limitation on the present invention. Further,
in the drawings, the same reference numerals are employed for designating
the same elements throughout the figures and certain features may
be shown in somewhat schematic form.
FIGS. 1-4 show an example of a device 10 in accordance with one
aspect of the present invention. Within the shown example device
10 a unitary flow controller 12 of an overall valve assembly 16
and a protective housing 14 are installed on a container 18 for
holding pressurized contents. It is to be appreciated that the contents
may be liquid and/or gas, or some other pressurized contents, and
it is to be appreciated that the contents may have any of numerous
chemical compositions. In one specific example, the contents may
be a portable calibration gas. Although the contents may be varied,
for ease of reference, the contents are referred to herein as gas.
Also, although it is to be appreciated that the container 18 may
have any of several shapes, configurations, etc., the container
will typically be a cylinder. As such, the container 18 is referred
to herein as the cylinder 18 with the understanding that the present
invention is applicable to different containers. The cylinder 18
is to be manufactured from a material having properties suitable
to withstand the pressures that the cylinder will be subjected to,
the environment the cylinder will be used in, and will not be detrimentally
affected by the gases to be contained within the cylinder.
Within the shown example, a connector 20 upon which the flow controller
12 is mounted, is mated with an opening port 22 (FIG. 7) of the
cylinder 18. As should be appreciated, the connector 20 and the
port 22 include compatible features such as threaded portions, for
example, that engage each other to form a connection 24 between
the connector and the cylinder. The connection 24 (i.e., joining
of the connector 20 to the port 22 of the cylinder) is assembled,
by an authorized party, such as the supplier of the gas. Although
it is possible to remove the connector 20 from the cylinder 18
such removal (i.e., breaking of the connection 24) should only be
done by the authorized party.
FIGS. 1-3 show three different sides of the example device 10
and FIG. 4 shows the top of the device. Each of these views show
some, but not all, of the structure of the flow controller 12 which
has a unique and novel construction and configuration itself in
accordance with one aspect of the present invention, and other structures,
which may have unique and novel constructions and configurations
in accordance with another aspect of the present invention, located
on the connector 20. The inability to see all of the structures
within any one of the FIGS. 1-4 is partially due to the presence
of the protective housing 14.
The protective housing 14 in conjunction with the flow controller
12 is in accordance with another aspect of the present invention.
However, in order to appreciate the above-mentioned aspects of the
present invention, it would be prudent to first appreciate the structures
(e.g., the flow controller 12) on the connector 20. In general,
the other structures with the flow controller 12 on the connector
20 may include a fill port 28 a nozzle 30 and a gauge 32 (FIG.
5). The fill port 28 is for receipt of gas, and the nozzle 30 is
for dispensing of gas. The gauge 32 is for displaying a gas property
such as flow rate, quantity, or pressure of the gas in the cylinder
18 or at some point within the flow controller 12.
Turning to details of the flow controller 12 the controller includes
a main valve 34 for controlling flow of the contents, a regulator
36 for controlling pressure of flow of the contents, and a flow
meter 38 for monitoring and controlling the rate of flow of the
contents. The main valve 34 the regulator 36 and the flow meter
38 together control the release of gas from the cylinder 18. In
pertinent part, it is to be appreciated that the main valve 34
the regulator 36 and the flow meter 38 are integrally formed as
a single unit within the device 10. As such, in accordance with
one aspect of the present invention, the device 10 is utilized without
the need to connect to a separate, non-integral regulator and/or
flow meter. FIGS. 5 and 6 are illustrations of the flow controller
12 installed on the cylinder 18 without the protective housing 14.
FIGS. 5 and 6 may be taken as an embodiment of one aspect (i.e.,
integration of the flow controller 12) of the invention or make
be taken as a partially assembled embodiment of another aspect (i.e.,
the flow controller 12 in conjunction with the protective housing
14) of the present invention.
The main valve 34 of the flow controller 12 is operable between
two settings, which are "off" and "on." The
main valve 34 is adapted to prevent gas flow (in and out) when in
the off position and to permit gas flow when in the on position.
As gas proceeds from the cylinder 18 the gas passes through the
main valve 34 and then proceeds toward the regulator 36. Also, located
downstream (as gas flows from the cylinder 18) are the flow meter
38 and the gauge 32. Finally, the nozzle 30 is operatively connected
for the gas flow proceeding from the flow controller 12.
The location of the main valve 34 upstream from the regulator 36
the flow meter 38 and the gauge 32 prevents the regulator, the
flow meter, and the gauge from being exposed to pressurized gas
from within the cylinder 18 when the main valve is in the off position.
Thus, during extended periods of non-use of the assembled device
10 the main valve 34 can be turned to the off position and the
flow meter 38 temporarily adjusted to one of the predetermined flow
rate settings to prevent the regulator 36 from being exposed to
the pressure exerted by the gas. This ability to depressurize the
regulator 36 maximizes the life and performance of the regulator.
The flow meter 38 includes a controller 44 (FIG. 6) to allow a
technician to adjust the flow rate of gas leaving through the nozzle
30 at a pressure set by the regulator 36. Predetermined flow rate
settings are selected by manipulating the controller 44 to provide
the desired flow rate of gas through the nozzle 30. The currently-selected
setting is displayed via a display portion 46 provided on the flow
controller 12. As such, a controlled release of gas (not shown)
from the cylinder 18 is provided at the nozzle 30 when desired.
It is to be appreciated that the main valve 34 the regulator 36
and the flow meter 38 may have any of several specific constructions
and configurations. All possible constructions and configurations
of the main valve 34 the regulator 36 and the flow meter 38 are
intended to be within the scope of the present invention. Also,
it is to be appreciated that nozzle 30 and the gauge 32 each may
have any of several specific constructions and configurations. For
example, the nozzle 30 may be specific for a particular use. All
possible constructions and configurations of the nozzle 30 are intended
to be within the scope of the present invention.
Turning to the fill port 28 (FIG. 7), it is to be appreciated that
the fill port itself is another aspect of the present invention.
The fill port 28 is an assembly for selective conveyance of contents
between an exterior of the cylinder 18 and an interior of the cylinder.
By the phrase exterior of the cylinder it is meant anything outside
of the pressurized interior of the cylinder, such as a supply source
for delivering gas, a receiving device to which gas is supplied
from the cylinder, or even the ambient atmosphere. Generally, the
fill port 28 is for flow of gas contents into the cylinder 18. However,
it is to be appreciated that the novel construction of the fill
port 28 could be utilized for an outflow from the cylinder 18.
In one example (FIG. 7) that is in accord with one aspect of the
present invention, the assembly of the fill port 28 includes a body
52 having a hollow passageway 54 that extends from the cylinder
exterior toward the cylinder interior. The body 52 is attached onto
the connector 20 via a threaded interconnection or other suitable
connection for securing the body in a sealing manner. A passage
(not shown) extends through the connector 20 and possibly other
components of the flow controller 12 between the body 52 and the
cylinder interior.
As will be appreciated upon viewing the example of FIG. 7 the
passageway 54 of the body 52 includes several, varying size portions
that are aligned along an axis 56 that extends along the passageway.
In the shown example, the portions are generally cylindrical. It
is to be appreciated that the passageway 54 may be otherwise constructed
or configured.
A movable plunger 60 is located within the passageway 54 of the
body 52. The plunger 60 has a first portion that is shaped congruently
with a portion of the body 52. The plunger 60 is engaged with the
body 52 at this location, and is able to slidingly move relative
to the body. The plunger 60 also has an annular seal recess, and
an annular spring collar 64 located adjacent to the seal recess.
A conduit 66 extends through the plunger 60. In the specific example,
the conduit 66 includes an axial bore 66A that extends from an end
face of the plunger 60 that is closest to the exterior end (left
most end, as viewed in the FIG. 7) of the body 52. The conduit 66
also includes a bore 66B that extends radially out from the axial
bore and terminates adjacent to the seal recess. It is to be appreciated
that the conduit 66 may be different, and may even be on the exterior
of the plunger 60. As can be appreciated, gas (i.e., contents for
the cylinder) can flow through the conduit 66.
A seal arrangement 68 between the plunger 60 and the body 52 prevents
conveyance of gas though the conduit of the plunger at a first plunger
position and permits conveyance of gas though the conduit of the
plunger at a second plunger position. Within the shown example,
the seal arrangement 68 includes a sealing ring 70 located in the
seal recess of the plunger 60 and a tapered conical seat 72 on
the body 52. When the plunger 60 is located in the first plunger
position (to the left, as viewed in FIG. 7), the sealing ring 70
is engaged against the seat 72.
A plunger bias device 76 biases the plunger 60 into the first plunger
position. In the shown example, the plunger bias device 76 is a
coil spring 76 that is aligned on the axis 56 and that encircles
a portion of the plunger 60. The spring 76 extends from the spring
collar 64 to a surface of connector 20 to urge the plunger 60 outward
into the first position. When the plunger 60 is biased by the spring
76 into the first position, the seal arrangement 68 prevents gas
from escaping through the fill port 28. It is to be noted that the
shown example includes a recess on the connector 20 within which
the spring 76 is seated and into which the inward end of the plunger
60 may extend when the plunger is in the second position. It is
to be appreciated that a different construction or configuration
may be used to obviate the need for the recess.
A movable bushing 80 is located within the passageway 54 of the
body 52 and is located between the movable plunger 60 and the container
exterior. In particular, the bushing 80 has a first position (leftmost
location as viewed in FIG. 7), in which the bushing is located adjacent
to an outermost extent of the passageway 54. In a second bushing
position, the bushing 80 is located further into the body 52. The
bushing 80 is slidable along the axis 56 within the passageway 54
between the first and second bushing positions. At the first position,
the bushing 80 helps block the passageway. Accordingly, the bushing
80 helps prevent entry of debris and other unwanted matter is from
entering the passageway 54. Also, the presence of the bushing 80
provides a level of protection to the plunger 60 and other structure
of the fill port 28.
The movement of the bushing 80 from the first bushing position
to the second bushing position moves the plunger 60 from the first
plunger position to the second plunger position. It is to be noted
that the shown example provides for a gap between the bushing 80
and the plunger 60 when the bushing is in the first bushing position.
As such, the bushing 80 travels the distance of the gap before engaging
and moving the plunger 60. Such a gap between the bushing 80 and
the plunger 60 results in a required threshold amount of movement
before plunger engagement occurs and may provide for additional
protection of the plunger.
A bushing bias device 82 biases the bushing 80 into the first bushing
position. In the shown example, the bushing bias device 82 is a
coil spring 82 that is aligned on the axis 56 and that encircles
a portion of the plunger 60. The spring 82 extends from an inner
end of the bushing 80 to a surface of body 52 to urge the bushing
outward into the first position. When the bushing 80 is biased by
the spring 82 into the first position, the bushing helps to prevent
debris entry and provides protection as mentioned above.
It is to be noted that the bushing 80 may have any of a variety
of shapes, constructions, and configurations. In general, the bushing
80 has an annular shape that is congruent with the outer end of
the passageway 54 through the body 52. As one example of particular
structure, the shown bushing 80 has a portion into which a portion
(i.e., an outward end) of the plunger 60 may be located. The result
is a nesting effect that helps align the plunger 60 the bushing
80 and the spring 82. Also, the bushing 80 and/or the body 52 may
include some structure to retain the bushing within the passageway
54. For example, the bushing 80 may include an annular shoulder.
Additional structure, such as a sealing ring 84 and associated structure
on the body 50 and/or the bushing 80 may also be provided. Still
further, it is to be noted that the shown example provides for the
bushing 80 being located entirely with the passageway 54. It is
contemplated that the bushing 80 may extend out of the passageway
54.
The bushing 80 includes structure 86 to permit gas flow past the
bushing. Although such structure 86 may have a variety of configurations
and constructions (e.g., an external groove), the shown example
includes an axial bore 86 that is aligned with the bore portion
of the conduit 66 of the plunger 60. In fact, when the bushing 80
is in engagement with the plunger 60 the aligned bores provide
a very direct route for gas flow.
In order to fill (or refill) the device 10 with gas (e.g., gas,
liquid, liquified gas, etc.), a supply is connected to the fill
port 28. Typically, such filling is accomplished via connection
of a supply line 92 (FIG. 8) to the fill port 28. It is to be appreciated
that the fill port 28 can provide an additional level of protection
in that a congruently configured supply line 92 is required to perform
the filling procedure. The supply line 92 extends from an external
source (not shown)
FIG. 8 shows an example of such an end portion of the supply line
92. During filling, a leading end 94 of the supply line 92 contacts
the bushing 80 to slide the bushing, and subsequently the plunger
60 inward toward the connector 20 thereby unseating sealing ring
70 and opening the conduit 66. As such, gas may flow from the supply
line 92 through the passageway 54 in part, via the bore 86 and
the conduit 66 toward the cylinder 18. A sealing ring 100 on the
end of the supply line 92 provides a sealing effect between the
supply line 92 and the body 52. Also, the sealing ring 84 within
the body 52 provides a sealing effect to the supply line 92.
A connector 96 is disposed on the fill port 28. The connector 96
has a construction and configuration that cooperates with corollary
structure of a coupler 98 on the supply line 92 to secure the supply
line to the fill port 28. In one example the connector 96 has a
male threaded portion that is engageable with a compatible female
threaded portion within the coupler 98 when it is desired to fill
the cylinder 18 with gas. The coupler 98 is rotatable about the
axis 56 to tighten onto the connector 96. Upon completion of the
refilling, the supply line 92 is removed from the fill port 28 (i.e.;
the coupler 98 is removed from the connector 96) and the plunger
60 and the bushing 80 return to their biased positions by springs
76 and 82 respectively. When not being utilized, the fill port
can be covered by a fill port cap 102 as shown in FIG. 1.
The fill port 28 in accordance with one aspect of the present invention
includes features separate from those found on fill ports according
to existing industry standards. The unique features interfere with
the ability of unauthorized parties to refill the cylinder 18 who
would be attempting to make the connection using an industry standard
and therefore readily available fitting.
With an appreciation of the flow controller 12 and its novel aspects
and the fill port 28 and its novel aspects, attention is now directed
back to FIGS. 1-4. As can be seen, the example protective housing
14 enshrouds (e.g., encircles) the valve assembly 16 and particularly
the flow controller 12. The protective housing 14 is intended to
provide a level of protection and as such is formed from a generally
rigid and durable material. Examples of such materials include plastic,
rubber, and/or metal materials. However, it is contemplated that
other protective materials could be used.
The protective housing 14 is coupled to the cylinder 18 so that
the entire device 10 is readily transportable. As mentioned, the
housing 14 protects the flow controller 12 from impact. Moreover,
It is to be appreciated that the protective housing 14 is operatively
connected to transfer impact force-toward the cylinder 18. This
connection is in distinction from a connection of a protective housing
to a valve assembly/flow controller, which could potentially transfer
undesirable impact force to the valve assembly/flow controller.
In one example of the connection of the protective housing 14 to
the cylinder 18 a shield 104 (see FIGS. 5-8) is provided in accordance
with one aspect of the present invention. As can be appreciated,
the example shield 104 has an annular configuration and is shaped
generally as a truncated cone. The shield 104 had a central aperture
at an upper end 106 and the shield is seated against an upper end
of the port 22 (i.e., at a stem that provides the port) of the cylinder
18 at the location of the central aperture of the shield.
Fasteners 108 couple the housing 14 to a lower portion of the shield
104 adjacent to a shoulder of the cylinder 18. In one example, several
fasteners 108 are spaced around the periphery of the housing 14.
In the event of force application to the housing 14 the housing
transfers the force around the circumference of the lower portion
of the shield 104. It is contemplated that impact force is transmitted
from the protective housing 14 toward the cylinder via the shield
104. This is due to the interface between the shield 104 and the
cylinder 18 rather than a force transmission path that includes
the flow controller 12.
It is also contemplated that the shield 104 may function as an
energy dissipating component. An impact that is sufficiently large
and/or sudden could impart a sufficiently large force impulse transferred
from the housing 14 that will cause deformation of the shield 104.
This deformation prevents damage to other components of the device
10. This damage prevention can include damage prevention to the
cylinder 18 the flow controller 12 or the connection there between.
As such, when the flow controller 12 is installed on the cylinder
18 the shield 104 forms a so-called "crumple-zone" that
will dissipate a portion of a force imparted on the housing 14 by
deforming. In order to provide for such energy dissipation, the
shield 104 is made of a material, dimensioned and configured accordingly,
that will plastically yield. One example of such a material is aluminum.
It is to be noted that the presence of the shield 104 may limit
visibility of some structure, and specifically the connection 24
between the connector 20 and the cylinder 18. In one example, at
least one aperture 110 (FIGS. 5 and 6) is formed in the shield 104
to allow a person (e.g., a technician) to inspect the connection
24 between the connector 20 and the cylinder 18. Also, the one or
more apertures 110 in the shield 104 may provide added ventilation
at the location of the connection 24 between the connector 20 and
the cylinder 18.
It is to be appreciated that, in accordance with one aspect of
the present invention, the flow controller 12 etc. and the housing
14 are not intended to be removed during routine use (e.g., dispensing
of contents, filling of contents, etc.). Openings 114 in the housing
14 provide access/viewing to the various components of the flow
controller 12 etc. when assembled. As such, the configuration of
the protective housing 14 is such that at least one opening 114
in the housing permits access/viewing of at least one of the fill
port 28 the valve 34 the regulator 36 the flow meter 38 etc.
In the shown example, all of these items are accessible/viewable.
As yet another possible feature, the protective housing 14 may
include a handle 116 connection points for a support strap, etc.
Improved portability and safety may be provided by the provision
of the handle 116 support strap, etc. Still further additional
features may be incorporated to minimize the potential for harm
to persons, such as a technician 120 (FIG. 9), located in proximity
to the device 10. It is to be appreciated that FIG. 9 shows the
use of the device 10 for the purpose of dispensing gas.
As an example of such additional features may include the nozzle
30 being oriented in a direction generally away from a location
from which the technician 120 may view the setting of the regulator
36. In the event of an accidental discharge of gas, the gas will
be directed away from the technician 120. Further, pressure relief
devices (not shown) are provided to relieve over-pressure that may
occur. For example, rupture disks (not shown) can be installed on
the flow controller 12 to burst before a critical pressure is reached
within the cylinder 18.
Additional features of the present invention may include visual
indicia 118 located on the cylinder 18 flow controller 12 and/or
housing 14. The visual indicia 118 can provide information regarding
contents, handling instructions, safety information and/or possibly
other information.
A method for filling a cylinder 18 provided with the flow controller
12 includes the steps of exposing the fill port 28 from beneath
the fill port cap 102; connecting the supply line 92 to the fill
port; depressurizing the regulator 36; opening the passage between
the fill port and the cylinder; transmitting gas from the external
source, through the supply line and into the cylinder 18; removing
the supply line from the cylinder; and replacing the cap on the
fill port.
To connect the supply line 92 to the fill port 28 the supply line
engages the bushing 80 as shown in FIG. 8. According to one embodiment
of the present invention, the supply line 92 is releasably connectable
to the fill port 28 without the use of tools under normal operating
circumstances. Allowing the connection of the supply line 92 to
the fill port 28 according to this embodiment, repetitive motion
injuries inflicted upon the technician performing the connection
are minimized. This connection is accomplished simply by the application
of easily achievable hand torques on the connecting features.
Before gas can be fed to the cylinder 18 through the supply line
92 the cylinder 18 must first be evacuated. The controller 44 is
adjusted to an off position that prevents the flow of gas through
the nozzle 30 while the main valve 34 remains in the on position.
This configuration of the controller 44 and the main valve 34 prevents
gas from escaping the cylinder 18 through the nozzle 30 but allows
the gas to exert pressure on the gauge 32 and controllably pass
through the fill port 28 when desired. With the supply line 92 coupled
to the flow controller 12 residual gas within the cylinder 18 is
vented to an appropriate location. After residual gas is vented,
a vacuum is created in the supply line 92 to evacuate the cylinder
18 and lower the pressure therein. While generally maintaining the
low pressure in the cylinder 18 the vacuum in the supply line 92
is discontinued and the supply line is connected to the external
source of the gas that is to be fed into the cylinder 18.
With the main valve 34 open, the external source of gas is gradually
turned on. Gas is supplied to the cylinder 18 through the supply
line 92 and flow controller 12. The gas is fed into the cylinder
18 until a predetermined pressure is reached, the predetermined
pressure falling within the allowable range of pressures for the
particular cylinder 18 being filled. Once this pressure is reached,
the main valve 34 is closed to retain the gas within the cylinder
18. Residual gas within the supply line 92 is vented to an appropriate
location to relieve the pressure within the supply line, allowing
the supply line to be removed. Gas trapped between the flow meter
38 and the closed main valve 34 is vented to an appropriate location
by temporarily adjusting the controller 44 to one of the predetermined
flow rate settings that allows gas to flow through the nozzle 30.
The controller 44 is returned to the off position once the pressure
exerted by the trapped gas has been relieved through the nozzle
30. The fill port cap 102 is then replaced over the fill port 28
to once again protect the fill port from its ambient environment
and minimize unauthorized access to the fill port. This procedure
can be repeated to refill the cylinder 18 with the gas as needed.
It is to be noted that all aspects of the cylinder 18 flow controller
12 supply line 92 external source of the gas, etc. should be inspected
for the presence of obstructions or other issues that could possibly
interfere with the filling process. Any discovered obstructions
should be removed before proceeding with the rest of the filling
process. Likewise, all features should be inspected for leaks throughout
the filling process. These inspections should take place before,
during and after the filling process to minimize the chances of
an accidental release of the gas from within the cylinder 18.
What has been described above includes exemplary implementations
of the present invention. It is, of course, not possible to describe
every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for
purposes of describing the present invention, but one of ordinary
skill in the art will recognize that many further combinations and
permutations of the present invention are possible. Accordingly,
the present invention is intended to embrace all such alterations,
modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope
of the appended claims. |