Fuel storage and supply arrangement, agitator collector for use with a fuel recycling system, and method of installing an agitator tube.

Abstract

A fuel storage and supply arrangement, including an agitator manifold for use with a fuel recirculation system, and a method for installing an agitator tube. A fuel storage and supply arrangement that serves as a fuel source to be distributed through at least one fuel dispenser in a fuel distribution environment. The arrangement comprises a storage tank to hold a quantity of fuel and a pump assembly to extract the fuel from the storage tank, which supplies the fuel under pressure. A fuel supply line is configured to transport the fuel under pressure from the pump assembly to at least one fuel dispenser in a dispenser flow path.A fuel conditioning and filtering assembly comprises a housing that has a housing inlet that receives the fuel under pressure created by the pump and a housing outlet through which the fuel entering the housing inlet exits the housing via the housing outlet. A filter element is within the housing and interposed in the flow path between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. A return pipe that receives fuel from the housing outlet is also provided. An agitator manifold receiving the fuel from the return pipe and having an agitator tube defining a plurality of agitation orifices, the agitator tube being positioned near the bottom of the fuel storage tank. Furthermore, the agitator manifold is movable between an insertion orientation and an deployed orientation.A flow control valve is provided to control the fuel flow along the fuel conditioning and filtering flow path.

Description

1 / 40 Fuel storage and supply arrangement, agitator collector for use with a fuel recycling system, and method of installing an agitator tube. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention generally relates to fuel distribution environments with one or more fuel storage tanks. More particularly, the present invention relates to a fuel distribution environment in which one or more of the storage tanks are equipped with a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly. FUNDAMENTALS

[002] Fuel distribution environments, such as retail fuel stations and fuel depots, typically store fuel in fuel tanks, such as an underground storage tank (UST). In some cases, small amounts of water or debris may be introduced into the storage tank, which can degrade the fuel. For example, during periods of rain, water typically flows over the pavement in the yard area of ​​a service station into a drain. Occasionally, some of this water may enter an underground storage tank. Generally, water and debris are denser than the fuel stored in the tank and therefore settle near the bottom of the tank. Water and fuel are immiscible, which causes a layer of water to form below the fuel, creating a fuel / water interface layer in the storage tank.The fuel / water interface level is normally monitored to ensure that water is not introduced into the inlet through which fuel is drawn from the tanks.

[003] In addition, the fuel / water interface in the tank of Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 7 / 74 / 40 storage may be susceptible to colonization and growth of microbial bacteria. For example, when storing ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) and / or ULSD blended with biodiesel fuel products, hydrocarbon-bearing microbes, for example, “shams,” may develop. These microbes can foul fuel distribution systems and auxiliary components, including fuel dispenser components, metering devices, shear valves, and fuel nozzles. In addition to the direct effects of microbial growth, acidic byproducts may be generated as a result of microbial digestion of food sources found in ULSD and biodiesel fuels. These acids attack metal surfaces in fuel storage and distribution systems, which can lead to various problems.

[004] Expensive active measures can be taken to clean a contaminated tank, remove water, and polish the fuel. This method requires shutting down the tank, which adds an additional cost of lost sales to the already high cost of cleaning. This process typically involves making multiple passes of the tank contents through progressively restrictive filter media and finally through a coalescing filter that removes any free water. These cleaning systems are large-scale, usually mounted on trucks, and are designed to clean contamination rather than prevent contamination.

[005] Many passive means are used to prevent or detect water ingress into fuel tanks, such as vent line caps, inlet seals, tank inspections, and regular quality testing. However, even small amounts of water can cause serious degradation of the fuel tank and / or fuel. When water is detected, it may be necessary to pump the entire storage tank into the setup tanks so that the water is drained. After the Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 8 / 74 / 40 After draining the water, the fuel can be reintroduced into the storage tank. Alternatively, the fuel tank can be set aside and a suction hose is used to remove the water from the bottom of the fuel tank until the water layer is removed and only fuel flows through the suction hose. summary of certain aspects

[006] The present invention acknowledges and addresses the foregoing, and other, considerations of construction and methods of the prior art. In this respect, certain exemplary and non-limiting aspects of the present invention will now be described. These aspects are intended to provide some context for certain principles associated with the present invention, but are not intended to define the entire scope of the present invention.

[007] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a compact fuel conditioning and filtration (FCFA) assembly provides continuous fuel conditioning and filtration by removing water and debris from the bottom of a fuel storage tank, such as a UST. The removal of water and debris from the UST can directly improve the cleanliness and quality of the fuel dispensed from it. Furthermore, the FCFA can limit or prevent the colonization and growth of microbial bacteria that can develop in the fuel / water interface layer in the UST and prevent the development of microbes using hydrocarbons, for example, “shams,” which can foul fuel distribution systems and auxiliary components.Furthermore, since microbes are prevented from growing by the removal of water, FCFA also reduces or eliminates acidic byproducts resulting from the digestion of food sources by microbes (e.g., in ULSD and biodiesel fuels), limiting or preventing acid damage to the metal surfaces of fuel storage and distribution systems.

[008] The FCFA can be fluidly coupled to a pump Petition 870220014458, dated 18 / 02 / 2022, p. 9 / 74 / 40 submersible turbine (STP) associated with a UST. The STP provides fuel flow through a manifold to one or more fuel dispensers continuously or on demand. In this respect, the FCFA can be fluidly coupled to a test or bypass port of a manifold associated with the STP. As fuel flows through the manifold, a portion of the fuel, which is relatively small compared to the fuel flow to the fuel dispenser, can be diverted through the test port to the FCFA and back to the UST after filtration. In an exemplary embodiment, the FCFA can be disposed of in an existing STP containment reservoir provided at the fuel distribution site.

[009] The FCFA may include a filter element configured to remove water from the fuel flowing through it. For example, the filter element may define a flow path, which allows or encourages water to precipitate at the bottom of the filter element due to the density of water being greater than the density of the fuel. In addition, debris may also precipitate from the fuel towards the bottom of the filter element or be captured by the filter medium.

[0010] The FCFA may include one or more control valves to control the flow of fuel through the filter element and / or to allow water and / or debris to drain from the filter element to a storage reservoir. For example, a flow control valve may be arranged in the fuel flow path from the manifold through the filter element and back to the UST. When the flow control valve is closed, fuel is prevented from flowing through the FCFA. At desired intervals and / or times, the flow control valve may be opened to allow fuel to flow through the FCFA. In this way, the operation of the FCFA may be limited only to the duration necessary to condition and filter the fuel and avoid periods when the fuel dispensers are out of service. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 10 / 74 / 40 are more active. This can prevent or limit any impact on fuel supply operations caused by the diversion of a portion of the fuel through the FCFA. Upon completion of one or more conditioning and filtration processes, for example, when the flow control valve is closed, a drain valve located at or near the bottom of the filter compartment can be opened to allow water and / or debris to flow into a storage reservoir. Collecting water in this way can extend the service life of the FCFA between maintenance operations. Furthermore, collecting water in this way proportionally reduces the amount of water available to mobilize microbial colonies, so that as the total surface area of ​​the fuel / water interface is reduced, microbial bacteria have less and less access to food sources in the fuel.

[0011] In some embodiments, the FCFA may include a return pipe in fluid communication with the filter outlet. The return pipe may be configured to cause turbulent flow at the bottom of the UST. The turbulent flow may cause water and debris near the bottom of the UST to mix with the fuel and thus be more likely to enter, i.e., be drawn into the STP inlet. In some embodiments, a diffuser (agitation collector) defining a plurality of spaced openings may be fluidly connected to the distal end of the return pipe to cause turbulent flow over a wider area at the bottom of the UST.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention provides a fuel storage and supply arrangement that serves as a fuel source to be distributed through at least one fuel dispenser in a fuel distribution environment. The arrangement comprises a storage tank to hold a quantity of fuel. A pump assembly operates to draw the fuel from the Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 11 / 74 / 40 storage tank for fuel piping. A fuel supply line is configured to transport fuel from the fuel storage tank to at least one fuel dispenser. A fuel conditioning and filtering assembly (FCFA) includes a housing that has a housing inlet that receives the pressurized fuel created by the pump arrangement and a housing outlet through which the fuel entering the housing inlet exits the housing via the housing outlet. A filter element located within the housing is interposed in the flow path between the housing inlet and the housing outlet, the filter element being configured to remove water from the fuel that passes through the filter element.The FCFA also includes a return pipe that receives fuel from the housing outlet and has a discharge end located near the bottom of the storage tank, so that the fuel flowing through the return pipe causes turbulence in the fuel at the bottom of the storage tank. The fuel flow to the housing inlet and through the discharge end of the return pipe defines a fuel conditioning and filtration flow path. The FCFA also includes a flow control valve that controls the fuel flow along the fuel conditioning and filtration flow path.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for conditioning and filtering fuel, including providing a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly comprising an inlet in fluid communication with the fuel piping, wherein the fuel piping is configured to transport fuel from a fuel storage tank to one or more fuel dispensers. An outlet is at the fuel storage tank to return the fuel. A filter element is interposed along Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 12 / 74 / 40 a flow path between the inlet and outlet, in which the filter element is configured to remove water from the fuel that passes through the filter element. A flow control valve disposed in the flow path allows and prevents fuel flow through the filter element. The method further includes determining, by processing circuits, whether the pressure data associated with the fuel piping or with various active fuel dispensers associated with the fuel storage tank meet a predetermined operating criterion. In addition, the method includes causing the flow control valve to open in response to the pressure data or the number of active fuel dispensers that meet the predetermined operating criteria.

[0014] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly for use with a fuel storage tank supplying fuel to at least one fuel dispenser via fuel piping fed by a fuel pump. The assembly comprises an inlet in fluid communication with the fuel piping. An outlet in the fuel storage tank returns the fuel. A filter interposed along a flow path between the inlet and outlet is configured to remove water from the fuel passing through the filter. A flow control valve disposed in the flow path allows and prevents fuel flow through the filter. A storage reservoir in fluid communication with the filter is configured to receive water drained from the filter. A conductivity sensor configured to measure the conductivity of the fluid within the filter is also provided.A drain valve is operationally arranged between the filter and the storage tank. The processing circuitry is operational to control the flow control valve based on predetermined operating criteria, the processing circuitry being further... Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 13 / 74 / 40 configured to receive conductivity data from the conductivity sensor, determine if water is present in the filter based on the conductivity data, and cause the drain valve to open if there is water, allowing water to drain from the filter to the storage reservoir.

[0015] A further aspect of the present invention provides a fuel storage and supply arrangement that serves as a fuel source to be distributed through at least one fuel dispenser in a fuel distribution environment. The arrangement comprises a storage tank to hold a quantity of fuel and a pump assembly to extract the fuel from the storage tank that provides the fuel under pressure. A fuel supply line is configured to transport the fuel under pressure from the pump assembly to at least one fuel dispenser in a dispenser flow path. A fuel conditioning and filtering assembly comprises a housing that has a housing inlet that receives the fuel under pressure created by the pump arrangement and a housing outlet through which the fuel entering the housing inlet exits the housing through the housing outlet.A filter element is located within the housing and interposed in the flow path between the housing inlet and the housing outlet. A return pipe that receives fuel from the housing outlet is also provided. An agitator manifold receives fuel from the return pipe and has an agitator tube defining a plurality of agitation orifices, the agitator tube being positioned near the bottom of the fuel storage tank. Furthermore, the agitator manifold is movable between an insertion orientation and an deployed orientation. A flow control valve is provided to control the fuel flow along the fuel conditioning and filtering flow path. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 14 / 74 / 40

[0016] In one exemplary embodiment, the agitator manifold comprises first and second rigid tube portions interconnected for flow through a flexible tube, the second tube portion forming the agitator tube. Preferably, the second tube portion is substantially axially aligned with the first tube portion in the insertion orientation and is substantially perpendicular to the first tube portion in the implanted orientation. In some cases, the diametrical extent of the agitator manifold in the insertion orientation is less than 10.16 cm (4 inches).

[0017] A linkage arrangement may be provided to effect movement of the agitator collector to the implanted orientation. For example, the linkage assembly may comprise a hinge link and an agitator link interconnected by at least one connecting rod (such as first and second connecting rods). The hinge link may also comprise a rotating bar structure articulated with respect to the first tube portion. In addition, the hinge link may include a removable joint. A removable pin may extend through the rotating bar structure to maintain the second tube portion in the implanted orientation.

[0018] In some embodiments, the agitator connection comprises at least one L-shaped bar with a shorter bar portion and a longer bar portion. At least one L-shaped bar in such embodiments may be articulately connected to the first tube portion at the intersection of the shorter bar portion and the longer bar portion. For example, at least one L-shaped bar may be articulately connected to the first tube portion by means of an axially extending arm that is fixed to the first tube portion. Furthermore, the interconnecting bar is articulately connected to at least one L-shaped bar adjacent to a distal end of the shorter bar portion. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, p. 15 / 74 / 40

[0019] Another aspect of the present invention provides a mixing manifold for use with a fuel recirculation system. The mixing manifold according to this aspect comprises first and second rigid tube portions interconnected for flow through a flexible tube, the second tube portion forming a mixing tube defining a plurality of stirring orifices. The first and second tube portions are movable between an insertion orientation in which the second tube portion is substantially axially aligned with the first tube portion and an implanted orientation in which the second tube portion is substantially perpendicular to the first tube portion. An implantation linkage assembly effects movement of the mixing manifold to the implanted orientation.

[0020] A further aspect of the present invention provides a method for installing a stirring tube in an underground storage tank with an insertion opening of predetermined diameter. One step of the method involves providing a stirring manifold having first and second rigid tube portions interconnected for flow through a flexible tube, the second tube portion forming a stirring tube defining a plurality of stirring orifices. The first and second tube portions are movable between an insertion orientation in which the second tube portion is axially aligned with the first tube portion and an implanted orientation in which the second tube portion is substantially perpendicular to the first tube portion. An implantation linkage assembly effects movement of the stirring manifold to the implanted orientation.

[0021] According to another step of the method, the agitator collector, in the insertion orientation, is inserted into the underground storage tank through the insertion opening, so that the second portion of the tube is completely inside the underground storage tank and the first Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 16 / 74 / 40: The pipe portion is only partially inside the underground storage tank so that the link assembly can be accessed; The deployment link assembly is used to move the second pipe portion into the unfolding orientation, and the link assembly is fixed so as to maintain the unfolding orientation. The agitator manifold assembly is moved so that the first pipe portion is located completely inside the underground storage tank and the second pipe portion is located substantially parallel to the bottom of the underground storage tank.

[0022] Different systems and methods of the present invention utilize various combinations of the described elements and method steps as supported by the general description herein. Thus, combinations of elements different from those discussed above may be claimed. Furthermore, the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and form part of this specification, illustrate one or more embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. brief description of the drawings

[0023] A complete and verifiable description of the present invention, including the best embodiment thereof directed to a person skilled in the art, is presented in the descriptive report, which refers to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a fuel storage arrangement having a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 is a detailed schematic representation of certain aspects of a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an example of Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 17 / 74 / 40 set of processing circuits according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] Figures 4-6 illustrate example methods for fuel conditioning and filtering according to an example embodiment.

[0027] Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a fuel storage arrangement having a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 8 is a detailed schematic representation of certain aspects of a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 9 is a side elevation of a mixing manifold according to an embodiment of the present invention in an deployed orientation.

[0030] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the agitator collector of Figure 10 in an installation (insertion) orientation.

[0031] Figures 10A to 10C are enlarged views of the agitator collector portions in Figure 10 as indicated.

[0032] Figure 11A is an enlarged perspective view of a linkage used in the agitator collector of Figure 9.

[0033] Figure 11B is an elevation of the right side of the articulation linkage used in the agitator collector of Figure 9.

[0034] Figure 11C is an elevation of the left side of the articulation linkage used in the agitator collector of Figure 9.

[0035] Figure 12A is an enlarged perspective view of a stirrer connection used in the stirrer collector of Figure 9.

[0036] Figure 12B is an elevation of the right side of the agitator connection used in the agitator collector of Figure 9. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 18 / 74 / 40

[0037] Figure 12C is an elevation of the left side of the agitator connection used in the agitator collector of Figure 9.

[0038] Figure 13 is an enlarged side elevation of a portion of the agitator collector of Figure 9, including the handle connection and the agitator connection of the deployment linkage assembly.

[0039] Figure 14 is an enlarged fragmented side elevation showing the handle linkage in the unfolded orientation.

[0040] Figure 15 is an enlarged fragmented side elevation showing the agitator connection in the deployed orientation.

[0041] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing certain exemplary methodological steps according to an aspect of the present invention. Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0042] Reference will now be made in detail to the currently preferred embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not as a limitation of the invention. Indeed, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from its scope or spirit. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used in another embodiment to produce a further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0043] Figure 1 shows a fuel storage and supply system 100 with a fuel storage tank 110, such as an underground storage tank (UST), which stores a quantity of fuel 10 to be dispensed by fuel dispensers 150 in a fuel dispensing environment, such as a retail fuel station. A probe of Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 19 / 74 / 40 tank 160 extends into storage tank 110 and has a fuel level sensor 161 to determine the fuel level 10 in storage tank 110 and a water level sensor 162 to determine the water level 20 (and any contaminants therein) in storage tank 110. A fuel pump, such as pump assembly 130 in the embodiment shown, is associated with storage tank 110 to pump fuel 10 into fuel supply lines 140 to supply fuel 10 to one or more fuel dispensers 150. The path by which fuel 10 flows from the fuel pump to the fuel dispensers 150 is the dispenser flow path.Fuel dispensers 150 will have a dispenser fuel meter 151 to monitor the distribution of fuel 10 by the respective fuel dispensers 150 and the fuel supply lines 140 may have one or more line pressure sensor(s) 141 (Figure 2).

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the pump assembly 130 includes a pump 131, such as a submersible turbine pump (STP), immersed in fuel 10 at the lower end of a column 132. A plug manifold 134, defining a main fluid passage and several ports, is located at the upper end of the column 132. The pump 131 sends fuel 10, and sometimes water 20, from the tank 110 through the column 132 to the plug manifold 134 for access at the ports in the plug manifold 134. One of these ports, a pump outlet 135, supplies the fuel supply lines 140. A check valve 133 is located along the fluid passage of the pump assembly 130 between the pump 131 and the pump assembly outlet 135, to retain the pressurized fuel 10 in the fuel supply lines 140 when dispensing is not occurring and the pump Line 131 is switched off.As someone versed in the technique will recognize, the obturator collector 134 will typically be located in a... Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 20 / 74 / 40 containment reservoir 120 defined below ground level when storage tank 110 is a UST. A person skilled in the art will understand and recognize that, although illustrated as a submersible turbine pump, pump 131 can be any configuration that extracts fuel 10 from storage tank 110. An example of pump 131 is a Red Jacket submersible turbine pump sold by the VeederRoot Company of Simsbury, Connecticut.

[0045] An automatic tank gauge (ATG) 190 manages the storage and dispensing of fuel 10 in the fuel storage and dispensing system 100. (Suitable ATGs include the TLS-450 ATG and the TLS-350 ATG sold by the Veeder-Root Company.) The ATG 190 is electrically connected to the tank probe 160 to determine the fuel 10 and water 20 level in the tank 110. The ATG 190 is also electrically connected to the fuel dispenser gauges 151 in the fuel dispensers 150 (or otherwise to control the circuits to the fuel dispensers 150) and to the pump 131. The ATG 190 is also in electrical communication with the pressure sensor(s) 141.

[0046] Using the information received from the fuel dispenser gauges 151 and the pressure sensor 141, the ATG 190 can operate the pump 131 to meet the needs of the fuel dispensers 150. In addition, the ATG 190 can use the line pressure sensor 141 to detect possible leaks in the fuel supply lines 140. Specifically, the ATG 190 can use the pump 131 to pressurize the fuel supply lines 140 during an inactive period when the fuel dispensers are not dispensing fuel 10. Once the fuel supply lines 140 are pressurized, the ATG 190 shuts off the pump 131 and monitors the pressure in the supply lines with the line pressure sensor 141. Because of the Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 21 / 74 / 40 check valve 133 in pump assembly 130, the fuel supply lines 140 must maintain pressure for a predetermined period. If the ATG 190 determines that the pressure in the fuel supply lines 140 has decreased too much or too quickly, there is an indication of a leak somewhere in the fuel storage and supply system 100, probably in the fuel supply lines 140. The line pressure sensor 141 used to measure the pressure in the fuel supply line 140 may be disposed at any point in the fuel supply line 140 between the pump 131 and a fuel dispenser 150, such as the outlet of the manifold 134.

[0047] In the present invention, a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly (FCFA) 200 is provided to improve the cleanliness and quality of the fuel 10 in the storage tank 110 by removing water 20 and any contaminants in the water. The FCFA 200 receives fuel 10 and water 20 when present, removed from the storage tank 110 by the pump assembly 130 and returns this fuel 10 to the storage tank after filtering out the contaminants and water 20.

[0048] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the FCFA 200 has a fuel conditioning and filtering element 212, or filter element, which separates contaminants and water 20 from the fuel 10. The filter element 212 is located in a housing 211 having a housing inlet 211a and a housing outlet 211b. (Together, the housing 211 and the filter element 212 may be referred to herein as a filter.) The housing inlet 211a is in fluidic communication with the flow path of the dispenser to receive at least some fuel withdrawn from the tank 110 by the pump assembly 130. In this embodiment, for example, the housing inlet 211a is in fluidic communication with a port 136 provided in the obturator manifold 134. (The connection with port 136 may be considered an “inlet” to the overall FCFA.) Port 136 Petition 870220014458, dated 18 / 02 / 2022, page 22 / 74 / 40 may be an existing port in the obturator manifold 134 supplied in another way, for example, for testing purposes. The outlet of housing 211b is in fluid communication with the storage tank 110. Housing 211 may also include a drain outlet 211c for removing contaminant and water 20 filtered from the fuel 10 by the filter element 212.

[0049] The filter element 212 is preferably a water separation (coalescing) filter that is capable of separating free and emulsified water 20 from the fuel 10 flowing through it while also removing other contaminants from the fuel 10. The use of FCFA 200 is particularly advantageous for fuel storage and supply systems 100 that store ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel and / or ULSD blended with biodiesel fuel products. As discussed above, hydrocarbon-utilizing microbes, for example, shams, can develop in storage tanks, such as USTs, at or near the fuel / water interface. By removing contaminants and water, not only is fuel quality improved, but microbial development can be prevented or limited.

[0050] Referring again to Figure 1, an agitation return 220 returns fuel from FCFA 200 to storage tank 110. (The discharge end of the agitation return in the storage tank is considered the outlet to the FCFA.) The agitation return 220 is fluidly connected to the outlet of housing 211b of housing 211 and extends into the interior of storage tank 110. In a preferred embodiment, the agitation return 220 discharges near the bottom of storage tank 110. Discharging fuel 10 in this manner desirably causes turbulence in the fuel 10 near the bottom of storage tank 110. As noted above, contaminants and / or water 20 tend to accumulate at or near the bottom of storage tank 110. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 23 / 74 / 40 bottom of storage tank 110 due to its density. The turbulence, therefore, causes contaminants and / or water 20 to be mixed into the mass of fuel 10, which can thus be accessible to the pump 131.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the agitation return 220 may comprise a return pipe 221 with a discharge end 222 near the bottom of the storage tank 110. The discharge end 222 of the return pipe may also provide an agitator manifold 232 that is elongated along a portion of the bottom of the storage tank 110. As shown, the agitator manifold 232 defines a plurality of agitator openings 233, at least some of which are preferably directed towards the bottom of the storage tank 110. For example, the agitator manifold may be in the form of an elongated pipe, a series of parallel pipes, a circle, a rectangle, a plurality of pipes extending from a central point in a star pattern, or any other suitable configuration, with the agitator openings 233 being spaced along the same.The return fuel 10 is thus discharged through the agitator openings 233 of the agitator manifold 232, causing turbulence near the bottom of the tank 110 through a larger area than simple discharge at the end of the return pipe 221. This turbulence facilitates the mixing of water 20 and / or debris (contaminants) in the fuel 10. The suspended water 20 and / or debris can then be carried along in the fuel 10 as it is drawn into the pump 131. This allows the water 20 and debris to be actively removed by the FCFA 200, reducing or eliminating the need to remove the service storage tank to remove water and / or debris. Furthermore, a separate particulate filter can also be added to the fuel flow path, preferably before the filter element 212, in order to extend its service life. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 24 / 74 / 40

[0052] The FCFA 200 includes a fuel flow control valve 230 disposed of in any suitable location in the flow path back to the storage tank 110. In this embodiment, the valve 230 is located in the fuel flow path downstream of the housing outlet 211b. However, embodiments are contemplated in which the valve 230 is upstream of the housing inlet 211a (i.e., between port 136 and housing inlet 211a). The fuel flow control valve 230 may be any suitable remotely operated valve, such as a solenoid valve, a servo-operated valve, a hydraulically actuated valve, or the like. As described in more detail below, the flow control valve 230 may be opened periodically to allow flow through the FCFA 200 and closed to prevent flow through the FCFA 200.

[0053] As shown in Figure 2, the processing circuitry (controller) 400 is used to control the operation of the flow control valve 230 and other aspects of the FCFA 200. In this respect, the processing circuitry 400 can provide a signal (or otherwise provide control power) to the actuator of the flow control valve 230. This will cause the valve 230 to open or close, which will allow or prevent the flow of fuel 10 through the FCFA 200. It is anticipated that the processing circuitry 400 can be a stand-alone unit or, alternatively, it can be part of other processors or controllers, such as the ATG 190. For example, the firmware of the ATG 190 can be updated to provide the additional functionality described herein.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, FCFA 200 also includes a flow resistance detector, such as a differential pressure sensor 240, to determine the operational state of the filter element 212. In this respect, the filter element 212 may suffer from debris buildup and become inefficient or non-functional during operation. Debris buildup Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 25 / 74 / 40, and the loss of efficiency for filter element 212 can be indicated by a change in differential pressure across filter element 212. Processing circuitry 400 can monitor differential pressure sensor 240 to determine the need to replace filter element 212. For example, processing circuitry 400 can periodically (such as once per minute, once per second, once per program cycle, etc.) compare differential pressure data received from differential pressure sensor 240 to a predetermined differential pressure. When processing circuitry 400 determines that the differential pressure deviates from the predetermined differential pressure, processing circuitry 400 causes a filter service request to be generated and transmitted to ATG 190 or another remote computing device.Furthermore, if the processing circuit assembly 400 determines that the differential pressure across the filter element 212 exceeds the predetermined differential pressure, the processing circuit assembly 400 can prevent the flow control valve 230 of the FCFA 200 from opening, thus preventing flow through the FCFA 200.

[0055] A water sensor 250 can also be positioned within the FCFA 200 to determine the presence of water 20 that has been removed by the filter element 212. In one embodiment, the water sensor 250 comprises a conductivity sensor that utilizes a change of state or conductivity, for example, due to the difference in resistance between water and fuel, to determine if water is present. However, any suitable type of water sensor that a person skilled in the art understands can perform the desired function may be used. Preferably, the water sensor 250 would be positioned in a location relative to the filter element 212 where water will be collected, such as on the underside of the housing 211. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 26 / 74 / 40

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, a storage tank assembly 300 is used to collect contaminants and filtered water 20 from fuel 10 to extend the time between maintenance operations. The storage tank assembly 300 includes a storage tank 310 which has a storage tank inlet 311 in fluid communication with the drain outlet 211c of housing 211. A tank drain valve 320, positioned between the drain outlet 211c of housing 211 and the storage tank inlet 311, controls the flow of contaminants and water 20 to the storage tank 310. The drain valve of the tank 320 may be any suitable remotely operated valve, such as a solenoid valve, a servo-operated valve, a hydraulically actuated valve or the like.The processing circuit assembly 400, also communicating with the water sensor 250, can activate the drain valve of the reservoir 320 when the water 20 in housing 211 is above the desired level. As a result, the fluid in housing 211 will be diverted to flow through the drain outlet 211c and into the storage reservoir 310 via the storage inlet 311. This includes configurations where the reservoir 310 is integrated into housing 211.

[0057] A reservoir level sensor 330 can be used to determine the water level 20 in the storage reservoir 310, which can then be removed through a drain 312 in the storage reservoir 310. In one embodiment, the reservoir level sensor 330 is a conductivity sensor that utilizes a change of state or conductivity, for example, due to a difference in resistance, to detect the presence of water 20 at a specific level. However, any suitable type of level sensor that a person skilled in the art understands can perform the desired function may be used. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, p. 27 / 74 / 40

[0058] The reservoir level sensor 330 is preferably connected to the processing circuit assembly 400, which can check if sufficient volume is available in the storage reservoir 310 before causing the drain valve 320 to open. If sufficient volume is available, as indicated by the fluid level (volume) being below a fill limit, the processing circuit assembly 400 causes the drain valve 320 to open. If sufficient volume is not available, as indicated by the fluid level being above the fill limit, the processing circuit assembly 400 can keep the drain valve 320 in the closed position despite the indication of the presence of water 20 in the housing 211 as indicated by the water sensor 250.When processing circuit assembly 400 determines that the fluid level in storage tank 310 is above the fill limit, processing circuit assembly 400 can cause a service request to be generated and transmitted to ATG 190 or another remote computing device. Additionally, if processing circuit assembly 400 determines that the fluid level in storage tank 310 is above the fill limit, processing circuit assembly 400 can prevent flow control valve 230 of FCFA 200 from opening, thus preventing flow through the fuel conditioning and filtration flow path.

[0059] In some example embodiments, the processing circuit assembly 400 can be configured to open the flow control valve 230 and operate the FCFA 200 when the water level sensor 162 reaches a predetermined level. The processing circuit assembly 400 can also be configured to prevent the operation of the FCFA 200 when the water level sensor 162 indicates a water level 220 below a predetermined level. Furthermore, the processing circuit assembly 400 can be configured to limit the impact on operations. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 28 / 74 / 40, regarding fuel dispensing, how to allow FCFA 200 to be in service when there is low or no dispensing activity in the fuel dispensing environment. For example, the processing circuit set 400 can be configured to put FCFA 200 into service by opening flow control valve 230 during times of day that normally have little or no dispensing operation (such as 00:00). In one embodiment, the controller 400 thus determines that a current time satisfies a predetermined operating time and causes flow control valve 230 to open. If pump 130 is not already activated, it will be activated by the processing circuit 400 to force fuel through FCFA 200.

[0060] The controller 400 can also operate the FCFA 200 based on predetermined operating criteria, such as fuel line pressure 140 and / or the number of active fuel dispensers 150 associated with the storage tank 110. For example, the processing circuit assembly 400 can receive an indication from the ATG 190 of the number of active fuel dispensers. In addition, the processing circuit assembly 400 can receive pressure data from the ATG 190 indicating the pressure measured by the line pressure sensor 141 in the fuel supply line 140.

[0061] To facilitate determining when to operate the FCFA 200, the processing circuitry 400 may include one or more lookup tables defining the relevant operating limits (e.g., based on the rated power and discharge size of the pump 131 associated with one or more storage tanks 110). For example, Table 1 below provides the operating limits for tanks No. 1-4 in an exemplary fuel distribution environment, each with a different pump and discharge configuration. TABLE 1 Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 29 / 74 / 40 Tank No. Pump / Discharge Type Max. No. of Fuel Dispensers Min. Pressure (1 psi = 6.89 kPa) 1 1.5 HP, 2” Discharge 4 25 psi 2 5 HP, 4” Discharge 10 30 psi 3 2x2 HP, 2” Discharge with IPC 8 25 psi 4 Generic Pump 3 20 psi

[0062] In this mode, the processing circuit set 400 compares the actual pressure data and / or the actual number of active fuel dispensers 150 with their respective operating limits defined in the lookup table. If the pressure data is less than the minimum limit and / or the active number of fuel dispensers 150 is equal to or greater than the maximum, the predetermined operating criterion is not met. In this case, the processing circuit set 400 can then close the flow control valve 230 (or keep it closed). If, however, the pressure data and / or the number of active fuel dispensers 150 meet their respective operating criteria (depending on whether both criteria are required or not), the processing circuit set 400 can cause the flow control valve 230 to open.Furthermore, if flow control valve 230 is open at the time it is determined that an operating limit is not met, the processing circuit assembly 400 causes flow control valve 230 to close.

[0063] In addition, or alternatively, the processing circuit assembly 400 can be configured to put the FCFA 200 into service for a selected duration, such as one hour, two hours, or another suitable period of time. In the event that the processing circuit assembly 400 closes the flow control valve 230 before the selected duration, such as due to a pressure drop or the number of active fuel dispensers 150 exceeding the limit, the processing circuit assembly 400 can reopen the flow control valve 230 when the operating criteria are again met to continue the conditioning and filtering process. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 30 / 74 / 40

[0064] At the start of operation, the processing circuit assembly 400 can determine if water is present in the FCFA 200. As discussed above, the processing circuit assembly 400 can receive conductivity data from the water sensor 250 indicating the presence or absence of water 20 in the housing 211. In response to the processing circuit assembly 400 determining an absence of water 20 in the housing 211, the processing circuit assembly 400 performs fuel conditioning 10 causing the flow control valve 230 to open.

[0065] In response to the processing circuit set 400 determining that water 20 is present in housing 211, the drain valve 320 is opened for a sufficient time to allow the water 20 in housing 211 to drain. In one example embodiment, the processing circuit set 400 may then cause the FCFA 200 to be put back into service for an additional period of time. The process may repeat until the processing circuit set 400 determines an absence of water in housing 211 or until the end of the selected service duration or until the storage tank 310 is full as indicated by the level sensor 330. Sample processing circuitry assembly

[0066] Figure 3 shows certain elements of the 400 processing circuit assembly according to a preferred embodiment. The 400 processing circuit assembly may be a stand-alone unit, as noted above, or it may be distributed among a combination of devices. For example, the ATG may be programmed to perform the functions described herein, in which case at least some aspects of the 400 processing circuit assembly may comprise components of the ATG. Furthermore, it should be noted that the devices or elements described below may not be mandatory and therefore some may be omitted in Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 31 / 74 / 40 certain modalities.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the processing circuitry 400 may include or otherwise communicate with one or more processors 62 (and associated memory 64). As a person skilled in the art will recognize, the processor 62 is configured to perform data processing, application execution, and other processing and management services. The processor 62 may communicate with or control a user interface 66, a communication interface 68, one or more vacuum tubes 70, and one or more sensors 72. The processor 62 may be incorporated as a circuit chip (e.g., an integrated circuit chip) configured (e.g., with hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software) to perform the operations described in this document. In some embodiments, however, the processor 62 may be incorporated as a portion of a server, computer, or workstation, or distributed among several physical processors.

[0068] User interface 66 can be an input / output device for receiving instructions directly from a user. User interface 66 can receive user input and / or present output to a user such as, for example, audible, visual, mechanical or other output indications. User interface 66 can include, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a screen (e.g., a touch screen), a microphone, a speaker or other input / output mechanisms.

[0069] The communication interface 68 may be any suitable means, such as a device or circuit embedded in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software configured to receive and / or transmit data to / from a network and / or any other device or module in communication with the processor 62. As such, for example, the communication interface 68 may include a modem of Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 32 / 74 / 40 communication and / or other hardware / software to support communication via Ethernet, digital subscriber line (DSL), Universal Serial Bus (USB) or other suitable mechanisms / protocols. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication interface 68 may support communication via one or more different communication protocols or methods.

[0070] In one exemplary embodiment, memory 64 may include one or more non-transient storage or memory devices, such as, for example, volatile and / or non-volatile memory that may be fixed or removable. Memory 64 may be configured to store information, data, applications, instructions, or the like to enable the device to perform various functions according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. For example, memory 64 may be configured to buffer input data for processing by processor 62. Additionally or alternatively, memory 64 may be configured to store instructions for execution by processor 62. Yet another alternative, memory 64 may include one of a plurality of databases that may store a variety of files, content, or data sets.Among the contents of memory 64, applications can be stored for execution by the processor 62 to perform the functionality associated with each respective application.

[0071] The processing circuit assembly 400 may also be in communication with valves, such as flow control valve 230 and drain valve 320 discussed above in reference to Figure 2. The processing circuit assembly 400 may cause valves 70 to open periodically to allow flow or close valves 70 to prevent flow.

[0072] The processing circuitry 400 may also include or be in communication with one or more sensors 72. The sensors 72 may include, without limitation, the line pressure sensor 141, the sensor of Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 33 / 74 / 40 fuel level of tank 161, water level sensor of tank 162, differential pressure sensor 240, water sensor 250 and / or reservoir level sensor 330, as discussed above in reference to Figure 2. The sensors 72 can provide sensor data (such as conductivity data, level data, differential pressure data and / or pressure data) to the processor 62. The processor 62 can use the sensor data to determine whether one or more conditions or limits are met during the conditioning process. Example Flowchart(s) and Method(s)

[0073] With reference to Figures 4-6, methods that can be used according to various aspects described in this document are illustrated. Although, for simplicity of explanation, the methods are shown and described as a series of acts, it should be understood and recognized that the methods are not limited by the order of the acts, as some acts may, according to one or more aspects, occur in a different sequence and / or concurrently with other acts from those shown and described in this document. For example, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that a method may alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states or events, as in a state diagram. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts may be required to implement a method according to one or more aspects. Some optional steps or operations are indicated, for example, by dashed lines.In other words, scenarios are considered in which several steps of the described methodology are not included. For example, some scenarios may depend on satisfactory pressure criteria to operate without taking into account the number of dispensers in use, or vice versa. Other scenarios are considered in which the service time of the FCFA 200 is not based on dispensing activity. For example, in cases where it is known that a fuel distribution environment is closed. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 34 / 74 / 40 during part of the day, the conditioning and filtration system can only be operated during that period.

[0074] As indicated in operation 500 (Figure 4), the method can begin with the processing circuit set determining that a current time satisfies a predetermined operating time (e.g., 12:00 AM). Next, the processing circuit set can receive pressure data associated with the fuel piping in operation 502 and / or receive an indication of several active fuel dispensers associated with a fuel storage tank in operation 504. The processing circuits can then determine whether the pressure data and / or the number of active fuel dispensers satisfy predetermined operating criteria in operation 506.If the pressure data or the number of active fuel dispensers fail to meet the predetermined operating criteria, the processing circuitry can proceed directly to operation 516 by discontinuing the conditioning process (e.g., by closing or holding closed the FCFA flow control valve). If the pressure data and / or the number of active fuel dispensers meet the predetermined operating criteria in operation 506, the method can proceed to operation 508.

[0075] In operation 508, the processing circuitry can cause the flow valve to open in response to pressure data and / or the number of active fuel dispensers that meet predetermined operating criteria. The processing circuitry can determine whether an operating duration has met a predetermined conditioning duration in operation 510. Conductivity data from a conductivity sensor is received as indicated in operation 512. The processing circuitry can determine in operation 514 whether water is present in a filter based on data from Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 35 / 74 / 40 conductivity. If no water is present, the method proceeds to operation 516, in which the processing circuitry interrupts the conditioning process, causing the flow valve to close. If water is present, the method proceeds to operation 518 of Figure 5.

[0076] In operation 518, the processing circuitry can suspend the conditioning process for a predetermined period of time by closing the flow control valve. The processing circuitry can receive level data from a level sensor associated with a storage reservoir in operation 520 and determine if the reservoir level exceeds a predetermined fill limit in operation 522. If the level data exceeds the predetermined fill limit, the processing circuitry can generate a reservoir service request in operation 524 and then proceed to operation 516 (Figure 4).If the level data does not exceed the predetermined fill limit, the processing circuitry may cause the drain valve to open to drain water from the filter element to the storage reservoir in operation 526 and cause the drain valve to close in response to the conductivity sensor indicating no water present in the filter in operation 128. The method may be repeated, returning to operations 502 / 504, until the processing circuitry determines that there is no water present in the filter element in operation 514.

[0077] Returning to Figure 6, the method may also include monitoring the differential pressure across the filter while the flow valve is open. The processing circuit may receive differential pressure data from a differential pressure sensor associated with the filter element in operation 530 and determine whether the differential pressure data differ from predetermined criteria in operation 532. In response to the determination that the differential pressure data differ from predetermined criteria, the Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 36 / 74 / 40 processing circuitry can generate a filter service request in operation 534 and proceed to operation 516 (Figure 4) discontinuing the conditioning process by closing the flow valve.

[0078] Figures 7-8 illustrate an alternative FCFA 200' according to another embodiment of the present invention. FCFA 200' is similar in most respects to the FCFA 200 described above. Thus, the elements of FCFA 200' that correspond to the elements of FCFA 200 will be identified by the same reference number. As will now be described, however, FCFA 200' has an additional mode of operation in which vacuum is used to extract water 20 from tank 110 in bulk form which can be captured in storage reservoir 310 for subsequent drainage. The vacuum source used for this purpose may be located in manifold 134 of pump 130. In this regard, see US Patent 8,636.482, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes, describes a suitable siphon cartridge that can be used as a vacuum source.

[0079] As shown, vacuum source 600 is in fluid communication with return pipe 221 at a location upstream of valve 230 via pipe 602. A valve 604 is situated along pipe 602 to selectively connect or disconnect the vacuum source. Additionally, pipe 606 provides fluid communication between the housing inlet 211a and return pipe 221 downstream of valve 230. A valve 608 is located along pipe 606 to connect or disconnect the fluid communication provided by pipe 606. Furthermore, an isolation valve 610 is in this case situated along pipe 612 to provide fluid communication between port 136 and housing inlet 211a. It will be recognized that valve 610 must be opened when valve 320 is opened to allow water drainage to reservoir 310 to prevent back pressure from impeding flow.

[0080] Like valve 230, valves 604, 608 and 610 can be Petition 870220014458, dated 18 / 02 / 2022, p. 37 / 74 / 40 any suitable remotely operated valve, such as a solenoid valve, a servo-operated valve, a hydraulically actuated valve or the like. Also, like valve 230, embodiments are contemplated in which one or more of these valves are configured as pilot-operated check valves controlled by a solenoid valve, which in turn is in fluid communication with port 136. As will be recognized, valves 604, 608 and 610 are in electrical communication with and are controlled by the processing circuitry 400.

[0081] When it is desired to remove bulk water from the bottom of tank 110, valves 230 and 610 are closed while valves 604 and 608 are opened. As a result, a vacuum is drawn into the filter outlet 211b of housing 211. The standing water that has collected at the bottom of storage tank 110 can thus be drawn into housing 211 where the water and any fuel in the water is separated. In the illustrated embodiment, water is drawn into housing 211 via agitator collector 232, return pipe 221 (downstream of valve 230), and piping 606. (Alternatively, a separate pipe may be installed very close to the bottom of storage tank 110 for this purpose.) This bulk water collection mode may be performed when the STP is running for normal station operation or during station quiet times as determined by ATG 190 and / or processing circuit 400.

[0082] The removal of standing water can be determined by processing circuits 400 using signals from ATG 190 (as indicated by the water float 162), by measuring the rate at which water is entering the filter compartment 211 using a sensor in the compartment, a flow meter, by the frequency of emptying the water reservoir, or a combination of these options. Once it is determined that standing water has been removed from tank 110, the FCFA 200 can use a valve (or series of valves) to purge the vacuum in the filter compartment 211 and then pressurize the Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 38 / 74 / 40 filter compartment 211 with fuel using pump 130. At this time, valves 230 and 610 are open with valves 604 and 608 being closed. The FCFA 200' will then operate in a conditioning mode substantially described above in relation to Figures 1-6. As needed or periodically as determined by the controller, bulk water removal and conditioning modes will be used periodically to ensure fuel quality and system efficiency. For example, the bulk water removal mode may be run before the conditioning mode whenever the conditioning mode is initiated. Alternatively, or in addition, the FCFA may switch between bulk water removal and conditioning modes as needed or desired.

[0083] With reference now to Figures 9-10, a manifold agitator 900 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in the deployment and insertion orientations, respectively. As can be seen in Figure 9, the manifold 900 generally has a first rigid tube portion 902 which is vertical in the unfolded orientation and a second rigid tube portion 904 which is horizontal in the unfolded orientation. Both portions 902 and 904 are formed as tubes (e.g., having a circular cross-section) configured to transport liquid. In use, the first portion 902 constitutes part of the return tube 221. The second portion 904 defines a plurality of agitator openings 233 (see Figure 1). A flexible tube 906 (shown schematically in Figure 12B) interconnects the flow passages of the first tube portion 902 and the second tube portion 904.As anyone skilled in the art will recognize, the 906 tube must be formed from a suitable flexible material that will not degrade when exposed to fuel, such as nitrile.

[0084] As shown in Figure 10, both portions 902 and 904 are substantially axially aligned in the insertion orientation. In addition Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 39 / 74 / 40. Furthermore, the components of the 900 collector are preferably sized to allow the 900 collector to be inserted into an insertion opening in a UST. To this end, and referring now briefly to Figure 14, the diametric extension D2 of the agitator collector in the insertion orientation will preferably be smaller than the internal diameter D1 of the UST insertion hole. In many cases, D1 will be 10.6 cm (4 inches). Once inside the tank, the second portion of tubing 904 can be moved to a horizontal position before being lowered to its final location near the bottom of the tank.

[0085] The manifold 900 includes a deployment linkage assembly 908 that allows an operator to easily move the second tube portion 904 into the deployment orientation. With reference now also to Figures 10A-10C, the deployment linkage assembly 908 has a hinge link 910 mounted on the first tube portion 902 and a shaker link 912 that interconnects the first tube portion 902 and the second tube portion 904. The hinge link 910 receives an elongated handle 914 which is initially closer to the first tube portion 902 (as shown in Figures 10 and 10A) when the manifold 900 is in the insertion orientation. With the linkage 910 outside the tank, but the agitator linkage 912 inside the tank, the operator pushes the handle 914 so that it becomes substantially perpendicular to the first tube section 902. This operates the agitator linkage 912 to move the second tube section 904 into the deployed orientation.The articulation link 910 is then locked (as will be explained in more detail below) to maintain the unfolded orientation. The handle 914 is removed and the articulation link 910 is then moved through the tank opening as the second tube section 904 is moved to its final position near the bottom of the tank.

[0086] With reference now to Figures 11A-11C, further details of the 910 joint linkage can be explained more easily. As Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, p. 40 / 74 / 40 shown, the articulation connection 910 includes a stationary assembly 916 that is fixed to the outside of the first tube portion 902. A first bar 918 is here in the form of parallel bar plates 918a and 918b that are articulatedly fixed to the support 916 (at the pivot 920) on opposite sides of the first tube portion 902. The distal end of the bar plates 918a and 918b (i.e., the end opposite the end where the handle 914 is removablely attached) are spaced so that they can release the first tube portion 902 when the handle 914 is pushed by the operator. Bar plates 918a and 918b further define a pair of aligned openings through which a removable cotter pin 922 extends. The cotter pin 922 may be retained by a standard poured ring 924 which is received into a defined transverse hole near the distal end of the pin 922.The cotter pin 922 is, obviously, removed when the bar 918 is articulated and reinserted once the second tube portion 904 is in the unfolded orientation. As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the cotter pin 922 will then be on the other side of the first tube portion 902 to prevent the bar 918 from rotating backward (thus maintaining the unfolded orientation). At least one connecting rod interconnects the handle linkage 910 and the stirrer linkage 912. In this embodiment, a pair of parallel rods 926a-b are articulated to the respective bar plates 918a-b at an intermediate location between the pivot 920 and the aligned openings that receive the pin 922.

[0087] With reference now to Figures 12A-12C, details of the agitator connection 912 can be explained more easily. As seen more clearly in Figures 12B and 12C, the agitator connection 912 includes a stationary assembly 928 fixed to the first tube section 902. The assembly 928 in this embodiment includes a collar 930 from which a pair of parallel arms 932a-b extend. The lower end of the first tube section 902 and the upper end of the second tube section 904 have the respective fittings 934 and 936 for connection of the flexible tube 906. If Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, p. 41 / 74 / 40 if necessary or desired, hose clamps may be used to attach flexible hose 906 to connections 934 and 936.

[0088] A second bar is articulatedly attached to the support 928 for operation by the handle linkage 910. In this embodiment, the second bar comprises a pair of L-shaped bar plates 938a and 938b which are fixedly attached to the second tube portion 904 (e.g., by the collar 940). As shown, the plates 938a-b each have a longer bar portion 942 which is axially aligned with the second tube portion 904 and a shorter bar portion 944 which is transverse to the longer bar portion 942. The bar plates 938a-b are articulatedly connected to the respective arms 930a-b at the intersection of the longer bar portion 942 and the shorter bar portion 944 (as indicated in 946). Furthermore, the respective rods 926a-b are articulately fixed to the bar plates 938a-b near the distal ends of the shorter bar portions 944.

[0089] As mentioned above, the second tube portion 904 is moved into the deployed orientation by rotating the handle linkage 910 so that the aligned holes of the plates 918a-b are on the same side as the first tube portion 902 as pivot 920. This pulls the rods 926a-b, which, due to their hinged connection near the distal ends of the shorter bar portions 944, causes the second tube portion 904 to rotate by substantially 90 degrees. The linkage 910 is then retained by the cotter pin 922 as described previously, thus also retaining the second tube portion 904 in the deployed orientation.

[0090] Figure 16 shows the methodology according to one aspect of the present invention. As shown in step 950, the agitator collector, in the insertion orientation, is partially inserted through an insertion opening in the UST. As shown in 952, the agitator collector is moved to the deployed orientation using the deployment linkage assembly. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 42 / 74 / 40 as described above. As shown in 954, the agitator collector is then moved to its final position in the tank for use.

[0091] In some embodiments, the system can be further configured for additional operations or optional modifications. In this respect, in an exemplary embodiment, the pump comprises a submersible turbine pump (STP). In an exemplary embodiment, the fuel condition and filtration flow path receive pressurized fuel from the fuel supply line. In some exemplary embodiments, the fuel condition and filtration flow path receive pressurized fuel from the pump. In an exemplary embodiment, the return pipe includes an agitator manifold positioned near the bottom of the fuel storage tank, the agitator manifold receiving fuel from the discharge end of the return pipe and having agitation orifices directed downwards towards the bottom of the storage tank.In some exemplary embodiments, the flow control valve is positioned in the fuel conditioning and filtration flow path downstream of the filter element. In some exemplary embodiments, the flow control valve is positioned in the fuel conditioning and filtration flow path upstream of the filter element. In one exemplary embodiment, the fuel storage and supply arrangement also includes operational processing circuits to control the flow control valve. In some exemplary embodiments, the filter element is further configured to remove debris from the fuel passing through the filter element.

[0092] In one example embodiment, the fuel storage and supply arrangement also includes a differential pressure sensor configured to measure the differential pressure across the filter element, indicating the condition of the filter element. In some example embodiments, the differential pressure sensor generates data of Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 43 / 74 / 40 differential pressure and also includes the processing of circuits configured to receive differential pressure data from the differential pressure sensor and to generate a filter service request in response to the determination that the differential pressure data exceeds a predetermined differential pressure.

[0093] In one exemplary embodiment, the filter housing includes a drain for discharging water removed from the fuel by the filter element, and the fuel conditioning and filtering assembly further includes a storage tank assembly comprising a storage tank and a tank valve connecting the storage tank to the housing drain. In some exemplary embodiments, the fuel conditioning and filtering assembly further includes a water sensor in the housing for the filter element that generates a water signal indicating water in the housing removed from the fuel by the filter element, and the processing circuitry receives the water signal and opens the tank valve. In one exemplary embodiment, the storage tank assembly further includes a tank level sensor that indicates the water level in the storage tank.In some example embodiments, the reservoir level sensor generates a reservoir level signal indicating a water level in the reservoir, and the processing circuitry receives the reservoir level signal and opens the reservoir valve when the water in the reservoir reaches a predetermined reservoir level.

[0094] In some example embodiments, the fuel conditioning and filtration assembly includes a pressure sensor configured to measure the fuel pressure within the fuel piping. In this case, the processing circuitry is configured to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor, determine Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, page 44 / 74 / 40 if the pressure data meet predetermined operating criteria and cause the flow valve to open in response to pressure data that meet the predetermined operating criteria. In one example embodiment, the processing circuitry is configured to receive an indication of a number of active fuel dispensers associated with the storage tank, determine whether the number of active fuel dispensers meets predetermined operating criteria, and cause the flow valve to open in response to the number of active fuel dispensers that meet the predetermined operating criteria.

[0095] It will be recognized that embodiments of the present invention provide compact and efficient fuel conditioning and filtration capabilities. Several advantages are gained by utilizing the existing fuel pump normally found at the fuel distribution site. The system can thus be adapted to existing retail and fleet fueling locations. The embodiment described in Figures 1 and 2 will operate with any local fuel pump, such as an STP. Communication with the ATG uniquely manages the pump's balance and flow requirements, while taking into account site operating conditions such as low or no dispensing activity, and minimizing the impact on other system test functions, e.g., line leak and tank leak detection.

[0096] Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention presented here will come to mind of a person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, having the benefit of the teachings set forth in the preceding descriptions and associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that embodiments of the invention are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments should be included within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, although the preceding descriptions Petition 870220014458, dated 18 / 02 / 2022, p. 45 / 74 / 40 and the associated drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain combinations of exemplary elements and / or functions; it should be recognized that different combinations of elements and / or functions can be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. In this respect, for example, different combinations of elements and / or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated within the scope of the invention. Although specific terms are employed in this document, they are used only in a general sense and not for purposes of limitation. Petition 870220014458, dated 02 / 18 / 2022, pp. 46 / 74

Claims

1 / 7 CLAIMS 1. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) serving as a fuel source to be distributed through at least one fuel dispenser (150) in a fuel distribution environment, characterized in that it comprises: a storage tank (110) for containing a quantity of fuel (10); a pump assembly (130) for extracting the fuel (10) from the storage tank (110) providing the fuel under pressure; a fuel supply line (140) configured to transport the fuel (10) under pressure from the pump assembly (130) to at least one fuel dispenser (150) in a dispenser flow path; a fuel conditioning and filtering assembly (200, 200') comprising: a housing (211) with: a housing inlet (211a) receiving the fuel under pressure created by the pump assembly (130);and, an outlet from the housing (211b) through which fuel entering the housing inlet exits the housing via the housing outlet; a filter element (212) within the housing (211) and interposed in the flow path between the housing inlet (211a) and the housing outlet (211b); a return pipe (221) receiving fuel from the housing outlet (211b); an agitator collector (900) receiving fuel from the return pipe (221) and having an agitator pipe (232, 904) defining a plurality of agitation orifices (233), said agitator pipe (232, 904) being positioned near the bottom of the fuel storage tank (110); wherein the said agitator collector (900) is movable between an insertion orientation and an implanted orientation; a flow control valve (230, 610) that controls the fuel flow along the fuel conditioning and filtering flow path.

2. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the agitator manifold (900) comprises first and second rigid tube portions (902, 904) interconnected for flow through a flexible tube (906), the second tube portion (904) forming the agitator tube (232).

3. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that the second tube portion (904) is substantially axially aligned with the first tube portion (902) in the insertion orientation and is substantially perpendicular to the first tube portion (902) in the deployed orientation.

4. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that the diametric extension of the agitator collector (900) in the insertion orientation is less than 10.16 cm (4 inches).

5. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that it comprises a linkage assembly effect movement (908) of the agitator collector (900) for the deployed orientation. Petition 870240111332, dated 12 / 30 / 2024, page 9 / 21 3 / 7 6. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that the linkage assembly (908) comprises a handle linkage (910) and an agitator linkage (912) interconnected by at least one interconnecting bar (918, 938a-b).

7. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that at least one interconnecting bar (918, 938a-b) comprises the first and second interconnecting rods (926a-b).

8. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that the handle linkage (910) comprises a rotating bar structure (918) articulatedly connected to the first tube portion (902).

9. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that the handle linkage (910) includes a removable handle (914).

10. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises a removable pin (922) extending through said rotating bar structure (918) to hold the second tube portion (904) in the deployed orientation.

11. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that the agitator connection (912) comprises at least one L-shaped bar (938a-b) with a shorter bar portion (944) and a longer bar portion (942).

12. Storage and supply arrangement of Petition 870240111332, of 12 / 30 / 2024, page 10 / 21 4 / 7 fuel (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that at least one L-shaped bar (938a-b) is articulatedly connected to the first tube portion (902) at the intersection of the shorter bar portion (944) and the longer bar portion (942).

13. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that at least one L-shaped bar (938a-b) is articulatedly connected to the first tube portion (902) by means of an axially extending arm (932a-b) that is fixed to the first tube portion (902).

14. Fuel storage and supply arrangement (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that the interconnecting bar (918) is articulatedly connected to at least one L-shaped bar (938a-b) adjacent to a distal end of the shorter bar portion (944).

15. Agitator collector (900) for use with a fuel recirculation system, said agitator collector (900) characterized in that it comprises: first and second rigid tube portions (902, 904) interconnected for flow through a flexible tube (906), the second tube portion forming an agitator tube (232) defining a plurality of agitation orifices (233); said first and second tube portions (902, 904) are movable between an insertion orientation in which the second tube portion (904) is substantially axially aligned with the first tube portion (902) and an implanted orientation in which the second tube portion (904) is substantially perpendicular to the first tube portion (902); and a movement effect of the linkage assembly (908) of Petition 870240111332, of 12 / 30 / 2024, p. 11 / 21 5 / 7 installation of the agitator collector (900) for the installed orientation.

16. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 15, characterized in that the linkage assembly (908) comprises a handle linkage (910) and an agitator linkage (912) interconnected by at least one interconnecting bar (918, 938a-b).

17. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 16, characterized in that at least one interconnecting bar (918, 938a-b) comprises the first and second interconnecting rods (926a-b).

18. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 16, characterized in that the handle linkage (910) comprises a rotating bar structure (918) articulatedly connected to the first tube portion (902).

19. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 18, characterized in that the handle joint (910) includes a removable handle (914).

20. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 18, characterized in that it further comprises a removable pin (922) extending through said rotating bar structure (918) to hold the second tube portion (904) in the deployed orientation.

21. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 18, characterized in that the agitator linkage (912) comprises at least one L-shaped bar (938a-b) with a shorter bar portion (944) and a longer bar portion (942).

22. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 21, characterized in that at least one L-shaped bar (938a-b) is articulatedly connected to the first tube portion (902) at the intersection of the shorter bar portion (944) and the longer bar portion (942).

23. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 22, characterized in that at least one L-shaped bar (938a-b) is articulatedly connected to the first tube portion (902) by means of an axially extending arm (932a-b) which is fixed to the first tube portion (902).

24. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 22, characterized in that the connecting bar (918) is articulately connected to at least one L-shaped bar (938ab) adjacent to a distal end of the shorter bar portion (944).

25. Agitator collector (900) according to claim 15, characterized in that the diametric extension of the agitator collector in the insertion orientation is less than 10.16 cm (4 inches).

26. Method for installing a stirring tube (232) in an underground storage tank (110) with an insertion opening of predetermined diameter, said method characterized in that it comprises the steps of: providing a stirring manifold (900) having: first and second rigid tube portions (902, 904) interconnected for flow through a flexible tube (906), the second tube portion (904) forming a stirring tube (232) defining a plurality of stirring orifices (233); the aforementioned first and second tube portions (902, 904) being movable between an insertion orientation in which the second tube portion (904) is substantially axially aligned with the first tube portion (902) and an implanted orientation in which the second tube portion (904) is substantially perpendicular to the first tube portion Petition 870240111332, dated 12 / 30 / 2024, page 13 / 21 7 / 7 (902);and a movement effect of the linking assembly (908) for deploying the agitator collector (900) to the deployed orientation; insert said agitator collector (900), in the insertion orientation, into the underground storage tank (110) through the insertion opening, so that the second portion of pipe (904) is completely inside the underground storage tank (110) and the first portion of pipe (902) is only partially inside the underground storage (110) so that the link (908) can be accessed; using the deploying linking assembly (908), move the second portion of pipe (904) to the deployment orientation and fix the linking assembly (908) so as to maintain the deployment orientation;and move the agitator collector (900) so that the first portion of pipe (902) is located completely inside the underground storage tank (110) and the second portion of pipe (904) is located substantially parallel to the bottom of the underground storage tank (110). Petition 870240111332, dated 12 / 30 / 2024, pp. 14 / 21;

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