Apparatus and method for heating fluid dispensers, hoses, and nozzles

Abstract

This application relates to apparatus and methods for heating fluid dispensers, hoses, and nozzles. Various exemplary apparatus and methods for heating fluid dispensers, hoses (100), and nozzles (102) are provided. Generally, the apparatus and methods for heating fluid dispensers, hoses, and nozzles can be configured to heat fluid that can be dispensed by a user into a fuel tank or other type of container. In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing apparatus can include a first passage (122) configured to deliver fluid therethrough and can include a second passage (124) fluidly isolated from the first passage and having a heating element (142) disposed therein. The heating element can be configured to heat the fluid delivered through the first passage. The first and second passages can extend through at least a distal portion of the hose of the fluid dispensing apparatus and through at least a proximal portion of the nozzle of the fluid dispensing apparatus, the nozzle having a proximal end attached to the distal end of the hose.

Description

[0001] Cross-references

[0002] This application is a divisional application, with parent application number 201580032515.2, application date April 13, 2015, and invention title "Apparatus and method for heating fluid distributors, hoses and nozzles"; the divisional application on which this application is based has application number 202010533224.4, application date April 13, 2015, and invention title "Apparatus and method for heating fluid distributors, hoses and nozzles". This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 14 / 678,486, filed April 3, 2015, entitled "Devices and Methods For Heating Fluid Dispensers, Hoses, and Nozzles," which is a continuation in part of U.S. Application No. 14 / 568,729, filed December 12, 2014, entitled "Devices and Methods For Heating Fluid Dispensers, Hoses, and Nozzles," which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 078,220, filed November 11, 2014, entitled "A Fluid Dispensing Unit Having A Heating System," and is also a continuation in part of U.S. Application No. 14 / 678,486, filed May 23, 2014, entitled "Devices and Methods For Heating Fluid Dispensers, Hoses, and Nozzles." A continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 14 / 286,405, entitled “Apparatus and Methods for Heating Fuel Hoses and Nozzles,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 981,577, filed April 18, 2014, entitled “Devices And Methods For Heating Fuel Hoses And Nozzles,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The topics disclosed herein relate to devices and methods for heating fluid distributors, hoses, and nozzles.

[0004] A typical fuel environment includes one or more fuel dispensers that, when used by a customer, dispense fuel into a vehicle, portable fuel tank, or other equipment. Fuel dispensers are typically located outdoors, where they are exposed to the weather, which may include exposure to low temperatures. In some cases, the temperature can be below the freezing point of the fluid from which it is dispensed, which can cause the fluid to freeze. The fluid therefore cannot be dispensed in response to user demand, and / or the fuel dispenser can be damaged by the frozen fluid. Even if the temperature is not low enough to completely freeze the fluid, it can be low enough to cause the fluid to begin transitioning to a frozen state, which can lead to the fuel dispenser becoming clogged with ice crystals, semi-freeze, etc.

[0005] Heated cabinets for fuel dispensers have been developed to help prevent fluids from freezing outdoors. However, heated cabinets can be aesthetically unappealing, inconvenient due to their size and / or bulk, and / or may provide inefficient heating. Another method developed to help prevent fluids from freezing outdoors is to house the fuel dispenser's hoses and / or nozzles within a shelter. However, shelters can be aesthetically unappealing, inconvenient by obstructing user operation of the fuel dispenser, and / or may provide inefficient heating.

[0006] Therefore, there remains a need for equipment and methods for heating fluid distributors, hoses, and nozzles. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This document generally discloses apparatus and methods for heating fluid distributors, hoses, and nozzles.

[0008] In one embodiment, a heating assembly for use with a fuel dispenser hose and nozzle is provided, comprising a conductive outer extension, a flexible outer tube, a conductive inner extension, and a heating element. The conductive outer extension may include a first end with a well formed therein. The well may extend at least partially through the conductive outer extension. The flexible outer tube may have a longitudinal passage extending therethrough. The first end of the flexible outer tube may be coupled to the first end of the conductive outer extension. The conductive inner extension may extend through the conductive outer extension and may have a first end that engages with the first end of the conductive outer extension. The heating element may extend longitudinally through the longitudinal passage of the flexible outer tube and may extend at least partially through the longitudinal passage in the conductive inner extension. The heating element may be configured to heat fluid surrounding the conductive outer extension.

[0009] In another aspect, a fluid dispensing device is provided, which in one embodiment includes a hose, a heating element, and a nozzle. The hose may have first and second passages extending longitudinally therein. The first passage may be configured to deliver fluid therethrough. The second passage may be independent of the first passage. The heating element may extend longitudinally within the second passage. The heating element may be configured to heat the fluid within the first passage. The nozzle may be attached to a distal end of the hose. The first passage may extend therein such that fluid is allowed to exit from a distal opening of the first passage for dispensing from the nozzle.

[0010] In another aspect, a fuel dispensing device is provided, which in one embodiment includes a housing, a hose, a nozzle, a tube, and a heating element. The housing may have a fuel dispensing component therein. The hose may be coupled to the housing and fluidly communicated with the fuel dispensing component, such that fluid can be transferred from the fuel dispensing component through an internal lumen of the hose. The nozzle may be attached to a distal end of the hose and may be configured to receive and dispense fluid from the hose. The tube may extend longitudinally within the hose and may have an internal lumen extending therethrough. The internal lumen of the tube may be isolated from the internal lumen of the hose. The heating element may extend longitudinally within the internal lumen of the tube. The heating element may be configured to heat the fluid transferred through the hose.

[0011] In another embodiment, a fuel dispensing device is provided, including a hose, a heating element, and a nozzle. The hose may have first and second passages extending longitudinally therethrough. The first passage may be configured to deliver fluid therethrough, and the second passage may be adjacent to and independent of the first passage, and the second passage may be configured to deliver air therethrough. The heating element may be in communication with the second passage and may be configured to heat the air delivered through the second passage, thereby heating the fluid in the first passage adjacent to the second passage. The nozzle may be attached to a distal end of the hose. The first passage may extend therethrough such that fluid is allowed to exit a distal opening of the first passage for dispensing from the nozzle, and the second passage may have a distal opening adjacent to the distal opening of the first passage, and the distal opening of the second passage may allow air to be delivered through it.

[0012] In another embodiment, the fuel dispensing device may include a hose, a nozzle, and a manifold. The hose may have first and second passages extending through it. The first passage may be configured to deliver fluid therethrough, and the second passage may be configured to deliver heated air therethrough. The nozzle may be attached to the hose, may have first and second passages extending through it, may be configured to dispense fluid from the first passage, and may be configured to release heated air. The manifold may have a first opening configured to communicate with the first and second passages, a second opening fluidly communicated with the first opening and configured to communicate with a fluid supply supplying fluid to the first passage, and a third opening fluidly communicated with the first opening and configured to communicate with an air supply supplying air to the second passage. The manifold may be configured to prevent the fluid delivered through the first and second openings from mixing with the air delivered through the first and third openings.

[0013] In another embodiment, the fuel dispensing device includes: a hose configured to deliver fluid therethrough, a nozzle attached to a distal end of the hose, a housing, a heating element, a sensor, and a controller. The nozzle can be configured to receive fluid from the hose, to dispense fluid from its distal end, and to deliver air therethrough, allowing air to pass through an opening in the nozzle. Mixing of fluid and air within the nozzle is prevented. The housing can have a cavity configured to releasably seat the nozzle therein. The heating element can be configured to heat the air delivered through the nozzle. The sensor can be configured to sense temperature. The controller can be configured to allow the heating element to provide heat when the sensed temperature is above a predetermined threshold temperature, and the controller can be configured to prevent the heating element from providing heat when the sensed temperature is below the predetermined threshold temperature.

[0014] In another embodiment, the fuel dispensing device includes a hose, a nozzle, a heating element, a sensor, and a controller. The hose may have a first passage extending longitudinally through it. The first passage may be configured to deliver fluid through it. The nozzle may be attached to a distal end of the hose. The first passage may extend through it, allowing fluid to be dispensed from the nozzle. The nozzle may include a second passage extending through it and configured to deliver air through it, allowing air to pass through an opening in the nozzle. The second passage may be adjacent to and independent of the first passage. The heating element may be configured to heat the air passed through the second passage. The sensor may be configured to sense the temperature of an opening adjacent to the nozzle. The controller may be configured to allow the heating element to provide heat when the sensed temperature is above a predetermined threshold temperature, and the controller may be configured to prevent the heating element from providing heat when the sensed temperature is below the predetermined threshold temperature.

[0015] In another embodiment, the fuel dispensing device includes a housing configured to be coupled to a fuel supply, a nozzle shield coupled to the housing, a heating element at least partially disposed within the housing and configured to heat air, and a tubular member having an internal lumen extending therethrough. The nozzle shield can be configured to removably and alternatively seat a fuel dispensing nozzle therein. An air exit opening of the internal lumen can be positioned adjacent to the nozzle shield. The fuel dispensing device also includes a flow mechanism configured to propel air heated by the heating element through the internal lumen of the tubular member to guide the air heated by the heating element out of the air exit opening and into the nozzle shield.

[0016] In another embodiment, the fuel dispensing device includes a housing, a nozzle shield positioned on the housing and configured to retract and alternatively seat a fuel dispensing nozzle, a heating element at least partially disposed within the housing, and a first conduit extending through the housing to the nozzle shield. The first conduit can be configured to pass air heated by the heating element from the housing through an internal lumen of the first conduit and into the nozzle shield. The fuel dispensing device also includes a flow mechanism configured to propel the air heated by the heating element to flow through the internal lumen.

[0017] In another aspect, a fuel dispensing method is provided, which in one embodiment includes allowing fluid to pass through a first passage of a fuel dispensing system and exit the fuel dispensing system through a nozzle of the fuel dispensing system, and propelling heated air through a second passage of the fuel dispensing system. The second passage can be disposed within the first passage, and the sidewalls defining the second passage can prevent the heated air in the second passage from mixing with the fluid in the first passage. The heated air can heat the fluid in the first passage, and the heated air can be delivered through the fuel dispensing system through the nozzle.

[0018] In another embodiment, the fuel distribution system may include a first passage allowing fluid to pass through the fuel distribution system and exit the fluid distribution system through a nozzle of the fuel distribution system, and a second passage for propelling heated air through the fuel distribution system. The second passage may be adjacent to the first passage, such that the heated air in the second passage heats the fluid in the first passage. The first passage may be separated from the second passage to prevent the heated air in the second passage from mixing with the fluid in the first passage. The method may also include allowing the heated air to exit the second passage into a cavity of the fuel distribution system, sensing temperature, and heating the air when the sensed temperature is above a predetermined threshold temperature and not heating the air when the temperature is below the predetermined threshold temperature.

[0019] In another aspect, a fluid dispensing device is provided, which in one embodiment includes a hose configured to deliver fluid therethrough, a nozzle attached to a distal end of the hose, a nozzle guard configured to removably and replaceably seat the nozzle, and a heating element configured to heat air directed into the nozzle guard such that the heated air heats the nozzle when the nozzle is seated in the nozzle guard. The hose may have first and second coaxial passages extending therethrough. The first and second coaxial passages may be configured to facilitate heating of the fluid flowing through the hose. The nozzle may be configured to dispense fluid therefrom.

[0020] In another aspect, a fluid distribution unit is provided, which in one embodiment includes a fluid hose configured to deliver fluid therethrough, a nozzle connected to the distal end of the fluid hose and configured to dispense fluid from the fluid distribution unit to a vehicle, a heating element, a fan in communication with the heating element and driven by a motor, and a first conduit configured to deliver air heated by the heating element through it by means of the fan. The first conduit has a distal opening near the nozzle to guide the heated air to the nozzle. Attached Figure Description

[0021] These and other features will be more readily understood by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0022] Figure 1 This is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the hose and nozzle of a fuel dispensing device;

[0023] Figure 2 It is attached to the manifold. Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional side view of the hose, with the manifold attached to the fluid supply, air supply, power supply, and controls;

[0024] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the hose;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the manifold of the fuel distribution device;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a side view schematic diagram of another embodiment of the manifold of the fuel distribution device;

[0027] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A top view of the manifold;

[0028] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of the manifold;

[0029] Figure 8 yes Figure 6Another cross-sectional view of the manifold;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the top portion of another embodiment of the manifold of a fuel distribution device;

[0031] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the bottom part of the manifold;

[0032] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A bottom view of the top part;

[0033] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A schematic cross-sectional side view of the top portion;

[0034] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 A bottom view of the bottom part;

[0035] Figure 14 yes Figure 10 A side view of the bottom part;

[0036] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of the bottom section;

[0037] Figure 16 This is a perspective schematic diagram of an embodiment of a fuel dispensing device including a hose and a nozzle;

[0038] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A perspective view of the nozzle;

[0039] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 A perspective view of the nozzle;

[0040] Figure 19 It includes the manifold. Figure 16 A perspective view of a portion of the fuel distribution equipment;

[0041] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Another perspective view of the part;

[0042] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fuel dispensing device including a hose and a nozzle;

[0043] Figure 22 It includes the manifold. Figure 21 A perspective view of a portion of the fuel distribution equipment;

[0044] Figure 23 It includes the manifold. Figure 21 Another perspective view of a part of the fuel distribution equipment;

[0045] Figure 24 This is a partial cross-sectional side view of the hoses and nozzles of the fuel distribution equipment;

[0046] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A perspective view of another part of the fuel distribution equipment;

[0047] Figure 26 This is a schematic cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of the fuel distribution device;

[0048] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a fuel distribution device including an air containment mechanism;

[0049] Figure 28 It includes an air containment mechanism. Figure 26 A schematic cross-sectional view of a fuel distribution device;

[0050] Figure 29 The graph shows the temperature change over time obtained from testing an embodiment of a fuel distribution device including a 220W heating cable with air supplied from the compressor to it.

[0051] Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a fuel distribution device including a heating system;

[0052] Figure 31 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a fuel distribution device including a heating system;

[0053] Figure 32 This is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of a fuel distribution device including a heating system;

[0054] Figure 33 It is a side view of an embodiment of a heating assembly including an external extension tube, a heating element, and an outer tube;

[0055] Figure 34 It is to place the obstruction in its end. Figure 33 A perspective view of the heating element;

[0056] Figure 35 When the obstruction is outside the heating element Figure 34 A perspective view of the heating element and obstructions;

[0057] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a heating element in its assembled form (right), without its electrical leads (middle), and with a sealed end (left);

[0058] Figure 37 yes Figure 33 A partially exploded perspective view of the heating assembly, which includes the heating element, the external extension tube, and the heat transfer element;

[0059] Figure 38 yes Figure 37 A perspective view of a partial assembly of the heating element, external extension tube, and heat transfer element;

[0060] Figure 39 yes Figure 38 An extended perspective view of the heating element, external extension tube, and heat transfer element;

[0061] Figure 40 It is assembled together. Figure 39 A perspective view of the heating element, external extension tube, and heat transfer element;

[0062] Figure 41 This is one embodiment of connection to a hose. Figure 33 A perspective view of the heating components;

[0063] Figure 42 yes Figure 33 heating components, Figure 41 An exploded side view of an embodiment of the hose, nozzle, and rotating component;

[0064] Figure 43 It is assembled together. Figure 42 The heating components, rotating parts, and hoses, as well as those detached from them. Figure 42 A side view of the assembled nozzle portion;

[0065] Figure 44 yes Figure 43 A perspective view of some components;

[0066] Figure 45 It is assembled together. Figure 43 Side view of the heating assembly, rotating parts, hoses, and nozzle;

[0067] Figure 46 yes Figure 45 A side cross-sectional view of the heating components, rotating parts, hoses, and nozzles;

[0068] Figure 47 yes Figure 41 hoses, Figure 42 An exploded side view of an embodiment of the rotating component, nozzle, and heating assembly;

[0069] Figure 48 It is assembled together. Figure 47 The heating components, rotating parts, and hoses, as well as those detached from them. Figure 47 A side view of the assembled nozzle portion;

[0070] Figure 49 yes Figure 48 A perspective view of some components;

[0071] Figure 50 It is assembled together. Figure 49 Side view of the heating assembly, rotating parts, hoses, and nozzle;

[0072] Figure 51 yes Figure 50 A side cross-sectional view of the heating components, rotating parts, hoses, and nozzles;

[0073] Figure 52 It is another embodiment that includes a heating component and includes Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional side view of a part of the system; and

[0074] Figure 53 This is a side schematic exploded view of an embodiment of a fluid dispensing device, which includes a nozzle, a rotating component, a heating assembly, a hose, a power supply and controls, and a fluid meter.

[0075] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and should therefore not be considered as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In the drawings, the same numbers denote the same elements between figures. Detailed Implementation

[0076] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide a full understanding of the structures, functions, principles of manufacture, and use of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the devices, systems, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and the scope of the invention is defined only by the claims. In this disclosure, components with the same name in embodiments generally have similar features, and therefore, in specific embodiments, each feature of each component with the same name is not necessarily described in full detail. Additionally, the extent to which linear or circular dimensions are used in the description of the systems, devices, and methods of this disclosure is not intended to limit the types of shapes that can be used in such systems, devices, and methods. Features illustrated or described in conjunction with an exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are contemplated to be included within the scope of the invention.

[0077] Various exemplary devices and methods for heating fluid distributors, hoses, and nozzles are provided. The devices and methods disclosed herein offer several advantages and / or technical effects.

[0078] Generally, devices and methods for heating fluid dispensers, hoses, and nozzles can be configured to heat fluids that can be dispensed by a user into fuel tanks or other types of containers, thus helping to prevent the fluid from freezing in environments where the fluid temperature is below its freezing point. In some embodiments, the fluid dispensing device can include a first passage configured to deliver fluid therethrough and can include a second passage fluidly isolated from the first passage and having a heating element disposed therein. The heating element can be configured to heat the fluid delivered through the first passage. The first and second passages can extend through at least a distal portion of the hose of the fluid dispensing device and through at least a proximal portion of the nozzle of the fluid dispensing device, the nozzle having a proximal end attached to the distal end of the hose. The heating element can thus be configured to heat the fluid in the hose and in the first passage in the nozzle, which can help prevent the fluid from freezing in either the hose or the nozzle. The fluid can be configured to be heated within the hose and nozzle, allowing it to be heated without any external heating element visible to the user dispensing the fluid. This allows for a more visually appealing fuel dispenser and / or allows the fluid to be heated without heating-related components that physically obstruct the user's flow, making dispenser use inconvenient and / or requiring the user to remove obstructions before dispensing the fluid. Because the heat source can be very close to the fluid, lower wattages can be used for heating compared to various conventional heating technologies such as heated cabinets, thus reducing the adverse effects of heat loss, improving efficiency, saving energy, and / or reducing monetary costs.

[0079] In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing device can include a first passage configured to deliver fluid therethrough and a second passage configured to deliver heated air therethrough. The heated air delivered through the second passage can be configured to heat the fluid delivered through the first passage. The first and second passages can be independent of each other, such that the air does not mix with the fluid, and therefore does not dilute or otherwise affect the integrity of the fluid. The first and second passages can be coaxial with each other, wherein the second passage is disposed within the first passage, for example, a tube delivering heated air is disposed within a tube delivering fluid. The first and second passages can extend through a hose and nozzle of the fuel dispenser, which can help prevent the fluid from freezing within either the hose or the nozzle. Similar to what has been discussed above, the fluid can be configured to be heated within the hose and nozzle, and the heat source for heating the fluid can be very close to the fluid. Air can enter the hose in an unheated state or in a heated state. If the air enters the hose in an unheated state, the fuel dispenser can be configured to heat the air after it enters the hose, such as by utilizing a heating element at least partially disposed within the hose.

[0080] In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing device can include a single hose configured to deliver fluid and heated air through separate passages therein, and the device can include a manifold configured to facilitate the delivery of fluid and heated air from separate sources to the single hose. The manifold can include first, second, and third connecting elements. The first connecting element can be configured to attach to a proximal end of the hose. The distal end of the hose can be configured to attach to a nozzle configured to dispense fluid therefrom. The second connecting element may be in fluid communication with the first connecting element and can be configured to connect to a fluid source (e.g., a reservoir, tank, etc.) supplying fluid. The third connecting element can be in fluid communication with the first connecting element without being in fluid communication with the second connecting element and can be configured to connect to an air supply (e.g., an air pump, air compressor, etc.) supplying air. The manifold can thus be configured to allow fluid and air to flow simultaneously through the single hose, while allowing the fluid to be heated without mixing with the air supply. The air supply can be configured to supply air in an unheated or heated state. If the air supply provides unheated air, the fuel distributor can be configured to heat the air after it is supplied, such as by using a heating element.

[0081] In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing device can be configured to heat the nozzle of the fuel dispensing device when the nozzle is in an idle position, such as when it is seated in a nozzle guard of the fuel dispensing device. Because the nozzle is located on an external portion of the fluid dispensing device, it is a component that is particularly exposed to cold and difficult to heat effectively. The methods and apparatus provided herein can help to heat the exposed nozzle in an effective manner. Since the nozzle can be heated when idle, fuel can therefore be properly dispensed from the nozzle as needed, even if the nozzle has been idled in a cold temperature for any length of time. The fuel dispensing device can be configured to heat the nozzle in the idle position using separate first and second passages in the device's hoses and / or the device's nozzles, such as the first and second coaxial passages mentioned above. Alternatively or additionally, the fuel dispensing device can be configured to heat the nozzle in the idle position using a conduit housed within the fuel dispensing device housing (e.g., within a cabinet of the fuel dispensing device that houses various components of the device) and having a heated fluid exit opening pointing towards the nozzle guard of the fuel dispensing device, in which the nozzle is configured to seat. Fuel dispensing devices can include mechanisms such as fans or pumps configured to guide heated fluid toward a nozzle shield through conduits. The mechanism can also be configured to guide heated fluid through at least one additional conduit disposed within the housing of the fuel dispensing device and configured to heat the housing, for example, the interior of the housing. The housing can thus be effectively heated and can help prevent freezing and / or crystallization of the fuel dispensed by the fuel dispensing device. The at least one additional conduit can have a heated fluid exit opening pointing towards the bottom of the housing interior, thus allowing the heated fluid to exit from the opening and rise upwards within the housing interior, thereby facilitating heating of the entire interior. In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing device can be configured to heat the housing without guiding heated fluid toward a nozzle shield through conduits. This can help reduce the manufacturing cost of the fuel dispensing device and / or help reduce the number of components housed within the top portion of the housing (e.g., within the electronic components of the housing), to facilitate repair and / or replacement of the top portion of the housing and / or components housed within the top portion of the housing.

[0082] As those skilled in the art will understand, the fuel dispensing device described herein can be configured to dispense any type of fluid. In some embodiments, the fluid can include any type of ammonia / water mixture fuel that can be used in a vehicle. In exemplary embodiments, the fuel dispensing device described herein can be configured to dispense diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), such as AdBlue. ® In Europe, AUS32 is usually referred to as AdBlue. ®The trademark is sold under the name AUS32, while in North America, the trademark used for AUS32 is Diesel Exhaust Fluid or DEF. Therefore, the terms AUS32 and AdBlue are related. ® DEF as used herein refers to the same material. DEF has a freezing temperature of 12°F (-11°C) and will begin to crystallize at 19°F (-7°C), which allows DEF to be heated using the equipment and methods described herein, which is desirable in geographical regions with cooler climates where temperatures may be near or below 19°F at any time of year.

[0083] AUS32 can help reduce harmful NO. x Emissions. Used to reduce harmful NO. x One technology for reducing emissions is selective catalytic reduction (SCR). The basic idea of ​​SCR is to reduce NO emissions by reducing the amount of NO produced. x The reaction is converted into harmless diatomic nitrogen (N2) and water (H2O). This reaction is achieved using a reducing agent added to the catalyst. Several reducing agents can be used, such as anhydrous ammonia, ammonia water, or urea. Standards have been established for the use of SCR reducing agents in diesel-powered vehicles. The reducing agent used is a 32.5% urea aqueous solution. To obtain the correct concentration, urea is mixed with demineralized water. When the diesel engine is running, an amount of AUS32 corresponding to 3-5% of diesel consumption can be added to the exhaust stream before or during the catalytic converter. When AUS32 is added to the exhaust stream of a diesel engine, it can reduce NO production without generating more NO. x The engine can be operated more aggressively under emission conditions. The apparatus and methods described herein are therefore expected to be used in fluid distribution systems involving the distribution of diesel fuel.

[0084] Figure 1An embodiment of a fuel dispensing device configured to heat a fluid 104 that can be dispensed therefrom is shown. The device may include a hose 100 and a nozzle 102. The fuel dispensing device may also include a movable element 114, also referred to herein as a “rotating element,” disposed between the hose 100 and the nozzle 102, which may be configured to allow selective orientation of the nozzle 102 relative to the hose 100. Generally, the hose 100 and the nozzle 102 may each be configured to allow fluid 104 to pass through them and to allow gas, such as air 106, to pass through them. The air 106 may be configured to non-invasively heat the fluid 104 such that the air 106 does not mix with the fluid 104 within the hose 100 or within the nozzle 102. The nozzle 102 may be configured to release fluid 104 and air 106 therefrom. Nozzle 102 can be configured to selectively release fluid 104 from it through fluid exit opening 110, as generally indicated by fluid exit arrow 116, in response, for example, to user manipulation of dispensing trigger 108 of nozzle 102. Nozzle 102 can be configured to automatically deliver air 106 through it through air exit opening 112, as generally indicated by air exit arrow 118, by releasing fluid 104 from it. The fuel dispensing device can thus dispense fluid 104 on demand, for example at a gas station, according to the user's typical expectations for fluid dispensing, while also providing heating of fluid 104 to reduce the likelihood of fluid 104 freezing within hose 100 and / or within nozzle 102.

[0085] The hose 100 can be configured as a coaxial hose and includes multiple coaxial tubes. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose 100 includes an outer tube 120 and an inner tube 124 coaxial with and disposed therein. For example, another embodiment of the hose (not shown) can include two tubes similar to the outer and inner tubes 120, 124, and include at least one protective outer tube surrounding it.

[0086] The outer tube 120 and the inner tube 124 can have various sizes, shapes, and configurations. In an exemplary embodiment, the inner tube 124 can have an inner diameter, for example, the diameter of its internal lumen, which is approximately two-thirds of its outer diameter. For example, the inner tube 124 can have an outer diameter in the range of approximately 0.75 in. (19.05 mm) to 0.83 in. (21.0 mm) and an inner diameter of approximately 0.5 in.

[0087] The outer tube 120 can be configured as a protective component to help prevent fluid 104 and / or air 106 from escaping from the hose 100. The outer tube 120 can be flexible, allowing the user to easily manipulate the hose 100.

[0088] The slit of space 122 can be defined between the inner surface 123 of outer tube 120 and the outer surface 125 of inner tube 124. Space 122, also referred to herein as a “fluid cavity” and “fluid passage”, can be configured to pass fluid 104 through it. As those skilled in the art will understand, fluid 104 can be configured to selectively advance through space 122 in response to user-actuated trigger 108.

[0089] The fluid chamber 122 can be configured to be in fluid communication with a fluid supply that stores the supply of fluid to be dispensed by the hose 100 and nozzle 102. As those skilled in the art will understand, the fluid supply can have a variety of configurations. Figure 2 An embodiment of a fluid supply 126 capable of fluid communication with a fluid chamber 122 is shown. In this illustrated embodiment, the fluid supply 126 has the form of a reservoir configured to be located underground. Fluid 104 can be configured to proceed from the fluid supply 126 through a fluid meter 128 into the fluid passage 122. As those skilled in the art will understand, the fluid meter 128 can be configured to measure the amount of fluid 104 dispensed from the fluid supply 126 in order to, for example, estimate appropriate billing for the dispensed fluid. Fluid 104 can also be passed through a manifold 130 between the fluid supply 126 and the space 122, as discussed further below. The fluid meter 128 can be coupled to the housing (not shown) of a fuel dispensing device and can be positioned entirely within the housing, entirely outside the housing, or partially within and partially outside the housing. Positioning the fluid meter 128 at least partially outside the housing facilitates the repair and / or replacement of damaged or legacy parts without requiring the housing to be opened at all and / or allows for easier opening of the housing compared to when the repaired and / or replaced parts are entirely inside the housing.

[0090] The inner tube 124, also referred to herein as an "air conduit" and "air passage," can be configured to pass air 106 through it. Air 106 can be configured to flow through the air conduit 124 without user intervention. In other words, air 106 can be configured to flow automatically through the air conduit 124. As further discussed below, air 106 can therefore be configured to automatically heat the fluid 104 in the space 122 surrounding the air conduit 124. The inner tube 124 can be flexible, which facilitates user manipulation of the hose 100.

[0091] Air conduit 124 can be configured to be in fluid communication with an air supply that provides airflow through air conduit 124. As those skilled in the art will understand, the air supply can have various configurations. The air supply can be coupled to the housing (not shown) of the fuel distribution device and can be positioned entirely within the housing, entirely outside the housing, or partially within and partially outside the housing. Positioning the air supply at least partially outside the housing facilitates the repair and / or replacement of damaged or obsolete parts without requiring the housing to be opened at all and / or allows for easier opening of the housing compared to when the repaired and / or replaced parts are entirely within the housing. Figure 2 An embodiment of an air supply is shown, which is in fluid communication with air conduit 124. An air inlet 132 can be configured to allow air to pass through it in a direction toward pump 136. The air inlet 132 can include, for example, a check valve configured to allow air to pass through it in one direction (e.g., toward hose 100) while preventing air from passing through it in the opposite direction (e.g., away from hose 100), as indicated by the air intake direction arrow 134. The air inlet 132 can be configured to allow ambient air to enter it, and / or a dedicated air source can be coupled to the air inlet valve 132 to supply air to it.

[0092] The air supply may include a pump 136 positioned between an intake valve 132 and an air conduit 124. The pump 136 may be configured to propel air into the intake opening 132 in a direction toward the hose 100, as indicated by the airflow direction arrow 138. The pump 136 may therefore be configured to direct airflow through the air conduit 124, for example, to supply air to it. In addition to or instead of the pump 136, the air supply may include an air compressor configured to provide compressed or pressurized air to the air conduit 124.

[0093] Pump 136 can be configured to operate continuously to continuously push air 106 through air conduit 124. Because heated air can continuously flow adjacent to fluid 104, continuous operation of air 106 through air conduit 124 helps ensure that fluid 104 within hose 100 and / or nozzle 102 does not freeze. Alternatively, pump 136 can be configured to operate non-continuously, such as intermittently, so that air 106 is only pushed through air conduit 124 at certain times. Non-continuous operation of air 106 through air conduit 124 helps reduce wear and tear on pump 136, and / or helps prevent air 106 from flowing through air conduit 124 when fluid 104 is not at a temperature where it might freeze or begin to freeze.

[0094] Pump 136 can be configured not to pump air 106 based on the measured temperature. If the measured temperature is above a predetermined threshold temperature, pump 136 can be configured not to pump air 106 because at such a measured temperature, it can be inferred that fluid 104 is not at risk of freezing. If the measured temperature is below the predetermined threshold temperature, pump 136 can be configured to pump air 106 because at such a measured temperature, it can be inferred that fluid 104 is at risk of freezing. The predetermined threshold temperature can be based on the freezing temperature of fluid 104. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold temperature can be the freezing temperature of the fluid. In other embodiments, the predetermined threshold temperature can be slightly higher than the freezing temperature of the fluid, for example, 3° or 5° higher than the freezing temperature of the fluid.

[0095] In some embodiments, the measured temperature can be the temperature of the fluid 104 sensed in the hose 100 and / or in the nozzle 102. As those skilled in the art will understand, the fluid temperature in the hose 100 and / or in the nozzle 102 can be sensed using a temperature sensor. Using fluid temperature as a trigger for pumping action can help to accurately control airflow on an on-demand basis; however, positioning the sensor to measure the fluid temperature can increase the size of the hose 100 and / or nozzle 102 and / or impede the flow of fluid 104 within the space 122. Any number of sensors can be used to measure the fluid temperature.

[0096] In some embodiments, the measured temperature can be the ambient temperature outside the hose 100 and nozzle 102, such as the ambient outdoor temperature. As those skilled in the art will understand, the ambient temperature can be sensed using a temperature sensor. Any number of sensors can be used to measure the ambient temperature. Using the ambient temperature as a trigger for pumping action may be less accurate than using the fluid temperature, because the fluid 104 within the hose 100 and / or nozzle 102 can be warmer than the ambient temperature; however, the ambient temperature can still provide a reliable indication of when the fluid 104 should be prudently heated to help prevent freezing. In an exemplary embodiment, when the fluid comprises DEF, an ambient temperature of 5°C can be used as a predetermined threshold temperature. In some embodiments, the ambient temperature can be measured using a sensor positioned at the fluid exit opening 110 of nozzle 102, where the fluid 104 is closest to exposure to the weather, such that using the measured temperature when controlling heating can help ensure that the fluid 104 does not freeze at the fluid exit opening 110 or elsewhere in nozzle 102 or hose 100. In some embodiments, ambient temperature can be measured using a sensor attached to the housing (not shown) of the fuel dispensing device, either on the outer surface of the housing (where the sensor is directly exposed to the weather) or inside the housing (where the sensor is not directly exposed to the weather). In some embodiments, ambient temperature can be measured using a sensor attached to a nozzle shield (not shown) that is positioned over a nozzle 102 not in use. In some embodiments, the ambient temperature sensor can be positioned in multiple locations, and the lowest measured temperature from any of the sensors can be used to control heating, thus helping to ensure adequate protection of the fluid 104 from freezing, regardless of the fluid's position within the hose 100 or nozzle 102.

[0097] In some embodiments, both fluid temperature and ambient temperature can be used to control pump 136 such that if at least one of a predetermined fluid temperature and a predetermined ambient temperature is exceeded, pump 136 can begin pumping air 106.

[0098] Pump 136 may include an onboard controller 140, such as a microprocessor, central processing unit (CPU), etc., configured to control pump 136 based on measured temperature. Controller 140 may communicate with and control pump 136 based on measurements received from the sensors, such as turning pump 136 on or off according to the sensed temperature. Pump 136 may include other electronic components, such as memory, printed circuit boards, etc., configured to facilitate data processing by the controller. In some embodiments, the controller may be located remotely from pump 136 and may communicate with it via wired or wireless electronic means.

[0099] In some embodiments, the air 106 entering the intake opening 132 can be heated. For example, the air entering the intake opening 132 can come from a supply of heated air.

[0100] Alternatively, the air 106 entering the intake opening 132 may be unheated, for example, ambient air. This provides greater flexibility to the system compared to providing heated air. In some embodiments, the intake opening 132 may have a heating element disposed therein, configured to heat the air 106 as it passes through it. However, the air 106 may lose heat as it travels from the intake opening 132 to the hose 100 and then to the nozzle 102. In some embodiments, such as in the illustrated embodiment, as in Figure 1-3 As shown, the air passage 124 can have a heating element 142 disposed therein. The heating element 142 can be configured to heat the air 106 as it is thus passed through the air passage 124. Compared to a heating element disposed at the air inlet 132, the heating element 142 is closer to the hose 100 and nozzle 102, which can more effectively heat the air 106 and / or can more likely prevent the fluid 104 from freezing within the hose 100 and nozzle 102. In some embodiments, a heating element can be disposed at the air inlet 132, and another heating element can be disposed within the air passage 124.

[0101] The heating element 142 can have various sizes, shapes, and configurations. In some embodiments, the heating element 142 can include a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater configured to automatically adjust such that the colder the temperature (e.g., the colder the sensed ambient and / or fluid temperature), the more heat is provided through the PTC heater. As shown in this illustrated embodiment, the heating element 142 can include a heating cable. As those skilled in the art will understand, various heating cables can be used, such as Class I, Zone 1 safety testing laboratory (UL) approved heater cables and heating cables suitable for use in hazardous areas (e.g., gas stations, etc.) and compliant with European standard EN-13617.

[0102] As in Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the heating element 142 can be housed within the hose 100, which effectively prevents the fluid 104 within the hose 100 from freezing with a relatively low amount of heating power (e.g., approximately 20 W per foot). (As also...) Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the heating element 142 can extend through essentially the entire longitudinal length of the hose 100, wherein the distal end of the heating element 142 is located just near the proximal end of the rotating member 114 and thus near the proximal end of the nozzle 102. The hose 100 can be relatively long, for example, in the range of about 10 to 12 feet, so that, for example, opposite to the heating element being located at one end of the hose 100 or not being housed within the hose 100 at all, positioning the heating element 142 within the approximate longitudinal length of the hose 100 can help reduce the effects of heat loss and can help ensure that heat is provided to the fluid 104 in the nozzle 102, because heat does not need to travel very far from the heating element 142 to reach the fluid 104 in the nozzle 102.

[0103] As in Figure 2 As shown, heating element 142 can be coupled to power source and control 144, which is configured to supply power (e.g., via a battery, via an electrical power output port, etc.) to heating element 142 via heating element control cable 146 extending between power source and control 144 and heating element 142. Power source and control 144 can be configured to continuously heat heating element 142. Continuous heating of heating element 142 can help ensure that fluid 104 in hose 100 and / or nozzle 102 does not freeze, but this continuous heating can be costly and / or increase the risk of wear and / or otherwise damage heating element 142 and / or power source and control 144. However, continuous operation of heating element 142 may be desirable in particularly cold climates. Alternatively, power source and control 144 can be configured to heat heating element 142 non-continuously, for example intermittently. Non-continuous heating of the heating element 142 can help reduce wear and tear on the heating element 142 and / or the power supply and controls 144, and / or help prevent the heating element 142 from providing heat when the fluid 104 is not at a temperature where it can freeze or begins to freeze. The heating element 142 can be coupled to the housing (not shown) of the fuel dispensing device and can be positioned entirely inside the housing, entirely outside the housing, or partially inside and partially outside the housing. Similarly, the power supply and controls 144 can be coupled to the housing (not shown) of the fuel dispensing device and can be positioned entirely inside the housing, entirely outside the housing, or partially inside and partially outside the housing. Positioning the heating element 142 and / or the power supply and controls 144 at least partially outside the housing facilitates the repair and / or replacement of damaged or obsolete parts without requiring the housing to be opened at all and / or allows for easier opening of the housing compared to when the repaired and / or replaced parts are entirely inside the housing.

[0104] Heating element 142 can be configured to provide heat 106 based on the measured temperature. Similar to the discussion above regarding pump 136, if the measured temperature is above a predetermined threshold temperature, heating element 142 can be configured not to provide heat; for example, power supply and control 144 can be configured not to provide power to heating element 142. Conversely, if the measured temperature is below the predetermined threshold temperature, heating element 142 can be configured to provide heat; for example, power supply and control 144 can be configured to provide power to heating element 142. Also similar to the discussion above regarding pump 136, power supply and control 144 can include an onboard controller, as shown in this illustrated embodiment, or the controller can be located remotely from the power supply and can communicate with the power supply via wired or wireless electronic communication. Power supply and control 144 can include other electronic components configured to facilitate data processing by the controller, such as memory, printed circuit boards, etc.

[0105] The movable element 114 can have various sizes, shapes, and configurations. In an exemplary embodiment, the movable element 114 can be configured to rotate or "rotate" relative to the hose 100 about the longitudinal axis of the hose 100, which allows the nozzle 102 to be positioned as desired relative to the hose 100 and thus improves the availability of the fuel dispensing device.

[0106] The movable element 114 can be configured to disconnect from the hose 100 so as to allow the nozzle 102 to detach from the hose 100 in response to the magnitude of the force applied thereto. This can be a safety feature. For example, if a user accidentally drives away from their vehicle while the nozzle 102 is still attached to it, the movable element 114, while the nozzle 102 is attached thereto, can detach from the hose 100, thus avoiding potentially very serious damage to the hose 100 and / or fuel dispensing equipment being pulled away by the force of a moving vehicle.

[0107] The movable element 114 may include an adapter portion 117 and a separation portion 115, configured to facilitate the separation of the movable element 114 and the nozzle 102 attached thereto from the hose 100. The adapter portion 117 may be adjacent to the separation portion 115 and may be configured to remain attached to the hose 100 in response to actuation of the separation portion 115 in response to a typical force applied to the nozzle 102 and / or the hose 100. The adapter portion 117 of the movable element 114 may be configured to be in a fixed position relative to the hose 100 so as to remain stationary relative to it, wherein the separation portion 115 of the movable element 114 is configured to rotate as discussed herein.

[0108] The separation portion 115 can be configured to be self-sealing. The separation portion 115 can be configured to automatically seal to close newly exposed openings in the fuel passage 122 and air passage 124 in the event of a breach in the separation portion 115. In this way, the separation portion 115 can be configured to prevent fuel 104 from leaking from the fuel passage 122 and air 106 from leaving the air passage 124 when the moving element 114 and the nozzle 102 attached thereto are separated from the hose 100. The separation portion 115 can be located outside the nozzle 102, for example, completely close to the nozzle 102, as in the illustrated embodiment, which allows for improved flexibility in nozzle design and / or allows for easier nozzle manufacturing. The separation portion 115 can be positioned completely at the distal end of the heating element 142, which can help prevent damage to the heating element 142 if the separation portion 115 is activated when the nozzle 102 is separated from the hose 100. The separation portion 115 can be configured to be self-sealing in various ways. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the separation portion 115 may include one or more sealing elements 121 configured to retract together upon failure, thereby sealing the fuel passage 122 and the air passage 124.

[0109] The active element 114 may include a distressed area 119 configured to facilitate the separation of the disengagement portion 115 from the adapter portion 117 and from the hose 100. The distressed area 119 may include a notch extending circumferentially around the active element 114, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, but the distressed area 119 may have other configurations, such as a thinner and / or weakened region of a different material compared to the remainder of the sidewalls of the active element.

[0110] The manifold 130 can have various sizes, shapes, and configurations. Figure 2 The manifold 130 shown can be configured to facilitate the transfer of fluid 104 from fluid supply 126 to hose 100 and air 106 from air supply to hose 100, without mixing the fluid 104 with the air 106. The manifold 130 can include a first opening 148 through which air 106 can flow from the air supply, for example, through which a pump 136 can pump air 106. A first connecting element 150 can be adjacent to the first opening 148 and is configured to engage with the air supply, for example, via a pipe 152 through which air 106 flows from the pump 136. In this illustrated embodiment, the first connecting element 150 includes a pipe, and the pipe 152 can be fitted into the first connecting element by, for example, an interference fit.

[0111] Manifold 130 may include a second opening 154 through which fluid 104 can flow from fluid supply 126. Adjacent to the second opening 154 may be a second connecting element 156 configured to mate with fluid supply 126, for example, through a pipe 158 through which fluid 104 flows. In this illustrated embodiment, the second connecting element 156 includes threads configured to thread into a threaded member 160 at the end of pipe 158. The first and second openings 148, 154 may not be in fluid communication, which helps prevent the fluid 104 passing through the second opening 154 from mixing with the air 106 passing through the first opening 148.

[0112] Manifold 130 may include a third opening 162 into which control cable 146 may extend. Adjacent to the third opening 162 may be a third connecting element 164, configured to engage with control cable 146, for example, using a connecting element 166 at the end of control cable 146. In this illustrated embodiment, the third connecting element 164 includes a tube into which the connecting element 166 may be fitted, for example, with an interference fit. The third opening 162 may communicate with the first opening 148, allowing heating element 142 and air 106 to contact each other. The third opening 162 may therefore not communicate with the second opening 154, similar to the first opening 148.

[0113] Manifold 130 may include a fourth opening 168 through which air 106 can flow after entering manifold 130 through a first opening, through which fluid 104 can flow after entering manifold 130 through a second opening 154, and through which a heating element 142 extending from a connecting element 166 at a third opening 162 can extend. Adjacent to the fourth opening 168 may be a fourth connecting element 170, configured, for example, to engage with hose 100 via its proximal end, which is opposite to a distal end configured to engage with nozzle 102. In this illustrated embodiment, the fourth connecting element 170 includes threads configured to engage with threads 172 at the proximal end of hose 100.

[0114] Figure 4-8Another embodiment of manifold 230 is shown. In this illustrated embodiment, manifold 230 includes: a first opening 248 through which air can flow; a first connecting element 250 configured to mate with an air supply; a second opening 254 through which fluid can flow; a second connecting element 256 configured to mate with a fluid supply; a third opening 262 through which a heating element control cable can extend; a third connecting element 264 configured to mate with a control cable; a fourth opening 268 through which air and fluid can flow and through which a heating element can extend; and a fourth connecting element 270 configured to mate with a hose. In this illustrated embodiment, the first connecting element 250 includes a tube, the second connecting element 256 includes threads, the third connecting element 264 includes threads, and the fourth connecting element 266 includes threads. Similar to... Figure 2 The manifold 130, in this illustrated embodiment, the manifold 230 is a single piece, such as a single element.

[0115] Figure 9-15 Another embodiment of the manifold (assembled state not shown) is illustrated, comprising a first upper portion 331 and a second lower portion 333. A first base 335 of the first portion 331 can be configured to face and mate with a second base 337 of the second portion 333 to form the manifold. In an exemplary embodiment, the flat surfaces of the first and second bases 335, 337 can face each other and are engaged together via a plurality of screws inserted through mating holes 339 formed in each of the first and second portions 331, 333. However, the first and second portions 331, 333 can be engaged together in any combination of one or more methods, such as screws, adhesives, welding, etc. A sealing element, such as an O-ring, can be disposed therebetween to provide a fluid seal between the first and second portions 331, 333.

[0116] The manifold in this illustrated embodiment includes: a first opening 348 through which air can flow; a first connecting element 350 configured to mate with an air supply; a second opening 354 through which fluid can flow; a second connecting element 356 configured to mate with a fluid supply; a fourth opening 368 through which air and fluid can flow and through which a heating element can extend; and a fourth connecting element 370 configured to mate with a hose. In this illustrated embodiment, the first opening 348 can also be configured to have a heating element control cable extending therethrough. In this illustrated embodiment, the first connecting element 350 includes threads, the second connecting element 356 includes threads, and the fourth connecting element 366 includes a tube. The manifold in this illustrated embodiment is a non-monolithic multi-piece component.

[0117] Figure 16-20Another embodiment of a fuel dispensing device 401 is shown, configured to heat a fluid (not shown) that can be dispensed from it. Device 401 may include a hose 400, a nozzle 402, a heating element (not shown), a moving element 414, and a manifold 430. The hose 400 may be configured as a coaxial hose and include at least two coaxial tubes, such as an outer tube 420 and an inner tube (not shown). The nozzle 402 may include a dispensing trigger 408, a fluid exit opening 410, and an air exit opening 412. Similarly... Figure 1 Nozzle 102, Figure 16-18 The nozzle 402 is capable of having a fluid exit opening 410 positioned distal to the air exit opening 412. This relative positioning allows heated air to be delivered through the air exit opening 412 at any time, regardless of whether the nozzle 402 is seated in the nozzle shield 403 and regardless of whether fluid is delivered through the fluid exit opening 410.

[0118] Device 401 may include housing 405, which is configured to be securely mounted to the ground and / or other stable area. Housing 405 may have a nozzle guard 403 formed therein. Housing 405 may have a second nozzle guard 407 formed therein, which is configured to seat a second nozzle (not shown) similar to nozzle 402, the second nozzle being connectable to a hose (not shown) similar to hose 400, which is connectable to a manifold (not shown) similar to manifold 430.

[0119] In this illustrated embodiment, the manifold 430 is a single component, as shown in... Figure 16 , Figure 19 ,and Figure 20 As shown in the illustration. The manifold 430 can be securely mounted to the housing 405, as in this illustrated embodiment. In this illustrated embodiment, the manifold 430 is housed within the housing 405, but the manifold can be positioned completely or partially outside the housing. Positioning the manifold at least partially outside the housing facilitates the repair and / or replacement of damaged or obsolete sections without requiring the housing to be opened at all and / or allows for easier opening of the housing compared to when the repaired and / or replaced sections are entirely within the housing. The manifold 430 can include: a first opening through which air can flow; a first connecting element 450 configured to mate with an air supply; a second opening through which fluid can flow; a second connecting element 456 configured to mate with a fluid supply; a fourth opening through which both air and fluid can flow and through which a heating element can extend; and a fourth connecting element 466 configured to mate with a hose 400. In this illustrated embodiment, the first opening can also be configured to have a heating element control cable extending through it. In this illustrated embodiment, the first connecting element 450 includes a tube, the second connecting element 456 includes a thread, and the fourth connecting element 466 includes a thread.

[0120] Figure 21-23 Another embodiment of a fuel dispensing device 501 is shown, configured to heat a fluid (not shown) that can be dispensed from it. Device 501 may include a housing 505, a hose 500, a nozzle 502, a nozzle guard 503, a heating element (not shown), a moving element 514, and a manifold 530. The hose 500 may be configured as a coaxial hose and include at least two coaxial tubes, such as an outer tube 520 and an inner tube (not shown). The nozzle 502 may include a dispensing trigger 508, a fluid exit opening (not shown), and an air exit opening 512. Similar to... Figure 1 Nozzle 102, Figure 21 and Figure 22 The nozzle 502 is capable of having a fluid exit opening positioned distal to the air exit opening 512.

[0121] Similar to Figure 16 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 manifold 430, Figure 21-23 The manifold 530 is a single component and is fixed to the housing 505. The manifold 530 may include: a first opening through which air can flow; a first connecting element 550 configured to mate with an air supply; a second opening through which fluid can flow; a second connecting element 556 configured to mate with a fluid supply; a third opening through which a heating element control cable 546 can extend; a third connecting element 564 configured to mate with the control cable 546; a fourth opening through which air and fluid can flow and through which a heating element can extend; and a fourth connecting element 566 configured to mate with a hose 500. In this illustrated embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth connecting elements 550, 556, 564, and 566 each include threads. Figure 21-23 Also shown is a tube 558, which is fitted to a second connecting element 556 through which fluid flows, and a tube 552, which is fitted to a first connecting element 550 through which air flows.

[0122] The device 501 in the illustrated embodiment also includes a second hose 600, a second nozzle 602, a second nozzle shield 607, a second heating element (not shown), a second movable element 614, and a second manifold 630, which are similar to the hose 500, nozzle 502, nozzle shield 503, heating element (for the hose 500 and nozzle 502 in the illustrated embodiment, not shown), movable element 514, and manifold 530.

[0123] Figure 24 and Figure 25Another embodiment of a fuel dispensing device is shown, configured to heat a fluid that can be dispensed therefrom. The device may include a housing 705, a hose 700, a nozzle 702, a nozzle guard 703, a heating element (not shown), a moving element 714, and a manifold 730. The hose 700 may be configured as a coaxial hose and include at least two coaxial tubes, such as an outer tube 720, a fluid passage 722, and an air passage 724. The nozzle 702 may include a dispensing trigger 708, a fluid exit opening (not shown), and an air exit opening 712. Similarly... Figure 1 Nozzle 102, Figure 24 The nozzle 702 is capable of having a fluid exit opening 710 positioned distal to the air exit opening 712.

[0124] Similar to Figure 16 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 manifold 430, Figure 25 The manifold 730 is a single component and is fixed to the housing 701. The manifold 730 may include: a first opening through which air can flow; a first connecting element 750 configured to mate with an air supply; a second opening through which fluid can flow; a second connecting element 756 configured to mate with a fluid supply; a third opening through which a heating element control cable (not shown) can extend; a third connecting element 764 configured to mate with the control cable; a fourth opening through which air and fluid can flow and through which a heating element can extend; and a fourth connecting element 766 configured to mate with a hose 700. In this illustrated embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth connecting elements 750, 756, 764, and 766 each include threads.

[0125] Figure 26 Another embodiment of a fuel dispensing device configured to heat and dispense fluid 904 is shown. The device may include a hose 900, a nozzle 902, a heating element (not shown), an air exit opening 912, a moving element 914, and a manifold (not shown). The hose 900 may be configured as a coaxial hose and include at least two coaxial tubes, such as an outer tube 920 and an inner tube 924. The nozzle 902 may include a dispensing trigger 908 and a fluid exit opening 910. Figure 26The nozzle 902 can have a fluid exit opening 910 located distal to the air exit opening 912. The air exit opening 912 can originate from the hose 900, such that air 906 exiting the air exit opening 912 does not enter the nozzle 902. Instead, the exiting air 906 can flow outside the nozzle 902 to facilitate heating of the nozzle 902 from the outside. In other words, the air passage through which the air 906 flows can be located within the hose 900 but not within the nozzle 902. The hose 900 can therefore be configured for use with existing nozzles, so that the nozzle does not need to be modified for heating using the coaxial heating system disclosed herein.

[0126] The fuel distribution device can include an air deflector 927 configured to facilitate the flow of fluid 904 into the nozzle 902 without mixing air 906 with the fluid 904, while simultaneously allowing air 906 to exit from the air exit opening 912. In other words, the air deflector 927 can be configured to deflect air 906 within the hose 900, for example, within the inner tube 924, to an area outside the nozzle 902, while allowing fluid 904 within the hose 900, for example, within the gap in the space 922 between the inner tube 924 and the outer tube 920, to flow into the nozzle 902. As in the illustrated embodiment, the air deflector 927 can be positioned close to the moving element 914, which facilitates retrofitting of existing nozzles and / or helps maintain the flow of heated air around the nozzle 902, even during user use of the nozzle 902.

[0127] In some embodiments, the fuel distribution system may include a nozzle that includes an air intake opening instead of an air exit opening. The air intake opening may be similar to the air exit opening described herein, except that instead of heated air being delivered through the nozzle in a distal direction and exiting the nozzle through the air exit opening, heated air may be delivered through the nozzle in a proximal direction and enter the nozzle through the air intake opening. The heated air entering the nozzle through the air intake opening may be delivered from the nozzle to a hose, thus allowing fuel to be heated within the hose and within the nozzle. The hose may include an air exit opening similar to the air exit opening described herein for the nozzle, thus allowing heated air to exit the system. The air exit opening of the hose may allow air to be released directly to the atmosphere or first released into elements of the fuel distribution system, such as the housing, before being released to the atmosphere.

[0128] Heated air can be supplied to the nozzle for entry into the nozzle in various ways. For example, an air supply similar to those described herein can be coupled to a nozzle shield configured to selectively seat the nozzle. The air supply can be configured to supply heated air to the proximal end of the nozzle, such as to the nozzle shield that seats the nozzle, to a shield covering the nozzle, etc. The heated air can then be allowed to enter the air inlet of the nozzle.

[0129] Because the nozzle is configured so that the air is heated before entering the nozzle or hose, the heating element does not need to be housed inside the nozzle or hose. This simplifies the manufacture of nozzles and hoses.

[0130] In some embodiments, a nozzle including an air inlet opening may also include an air outlet opening. In such embodiments, the hose does not need to include an air outlet opening, even though heated air entering the nozzle may be able to enter the hose to heat the fuel therein. A hose without an air outlet opening allows the system to be easier to manufacture and / or maintain because conventional hoses can be used and / or heated air can exit from components (e.g., nozzles) that are already exposed to the external environment by virtue of their accessibility within the nozzle shield.

[0131] In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing device can include an air containment mechanism configured to facilitate heating of the nozzles of the fuel dispensing device with heated air, for example, air exiting the nozzle through its air exit opening or entering the nozzle through its air intake opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the air containment mechanism can be configured to facilitate heating of the nozzle orifice, such as the nozzle's fluid exit opening, which, as described above, is more prone to fluid freezing due to its closer proximity to the weather compared to other parts of the nozzle and hose. The air containment mechanism can be configured to help contain heated air near the nozzle, such as the nozzle orifice, regardless of whether the heated air is released from the nozzle or supplied near the nozzle to enter the nozzle. The air containment mechanism can thus effectively utilize "waste" heated air to further help prevent fluid freezing.

[0132] Fuel distribution equipment can include sensors located near the air intake mechanism, such as those attached to the nozzle near the air exit opening, to the nozzle shield, or to the nozzle near the air intake opening, and configured to sense ambient temperature. By using these sensors alone or in combination with other sensors configured to sense temperature, heating can be controlled more effectively, for example, by turning on or off in response to temperature, to better help ensure that the fluid does not freeze and that heat is provided when necessary and not when not necessary.

[0133] The air containment mechanism can be configured as a passive element, eliminating the need for the user of the fuel dispensing device to manipulate the nozzles or dispensing fluid from them, such as by removing or opening them. This allows the user experience to closely resemble their current dispensing expectations, providing a better user experience compared to at least some traditional heating technologies (such as shielding that the user must move and / or remove before dispensing).

[0134] An air containment mechanism can be positioned within a portion of the housing of the fuel dispensing device for the seated nozzle, such as a nozzle guard for the device. In this way, the fuel dispensing device can be configured to heat the nozzle when not in use, such as when fluid is not being dispensed from it (which could be when the fluid is more likely to freeze due to its lack of flow and inactivity).

[0135] The air-retaining mechanism can include a cavity that is open at its bottom and closed upwards, similar to a canopy. In an exemplary embodiment, the cavity can be positioned within the nozzle shield portion of the fuel dispensing device, wherein the open bottom of the cavity is positioned toward the ground (on which the fuel dispensing device is seated). The open bottom can be fully opened, for example, without being obscured by any material, or the open bottom can be partially opened, for example, at least partially obscured by material. For a semi-open bottom, the material that at least partially obscures the cavity can be a variety of materials, such as a type of broom material that allows air to pass through while also helping to insulate the cavity by helping to contain heated air, or a type of filter material that allows air to pass through while also helping to insulate the cavity by helping to contain heated air. If the bottom is semi-open, the material that at least partially obscures the bottom can be configured as a passive element, so that the user of the fuel dispensing device does not need to manipulate it, such as removing or opening, to operate the nozzle and dispensing fluid from it.

[0136] Figure 27 An embodiment of a fuel distribution device 801 configured to heat the fluid it distributes is shown. The fuel distribution device 801 and... Figure 16-20 The equipment is the same as 401, except that... Figure 27The device 801 includes an air-receiving mechanism configured to facilitate heating of the nozzle 402 of the fuel dispensing device using heated air exiting the nozzle 402 through the air exit opening 412 (as indicated by the air exit arrow 818). In this illustrated embodiment, the air-receiving mechanism is positioned within a portion of the housing of the fuel dispensing device, accommodating the nozzle and including a cavity 813 defined by a nozzle shield 403 and a cover 811, such that the cavity 813 has a closed wall except for an open bottom through which the nozzle 402 can extend when seated within the shield 403. The air-receiving mechanism can thus be configured to help contain heated air exiting the air exit opening 412 near the nozzle 402, particularly near its distal portion (including the fluid exit opening 410). In this illustrated embodiment, the cover 811 comprises a rectangular plate, but the cover 811 can have other shapes and sizes depending on, for example, the size and shape of the nozzle, the size and shape of the nozzle shield, the location of the air exit opening, etc.

[0137] In some embodiments, a sensor configured to sense ambient temperature can be housed within cavity 813, for example, attached to cover 811, or attached to the wall of fuel dispensing device 801 within nozzle shield 803. The sensed temperature can be used to help control heating, as described above.

[0138] Figure 28 An embodiment of a fuel distribution device configured to heat a fluid that can be distributed therefrom is shown. The fuel distribution device and... Figure 26 The equipment is the same, except that... Figure 28 The device includes an air-receiving mechanism 1029 configured to facilitate the use of a nozzle 902 of a heated air-heated fuel distribution device in a gap between an air exit opening 912 and a space 1041 defined between the nozzle 902 and the air-receiving mechanism 1029 and between an air deflector 927 and the air-receiving mechanism 1029. In embodiments where heated air is directed distally, the air-receiving mechanism 1029 can be configured to help contain heated air exiting the hose 900 around the outside of the nozzle 902. In embodiments where heated air is directed proximally into the hose 900, the air-receiving mechanism 1029 can be configured to help guide heated air around the outside of the nozzle 902.

[0139] The air-retaining mechanism 1029 can be positioned around at least a portion of the nozzle 902, such as the proximal portion, to facilitate heating of the nozzle 902. As in this illustrated embodiment, the air-retaining mechanism 1029 can be positioned entirely close to the fluid exit opening 910, for example, entirely close to the distal end of the nozzle orifice. Such positioning helps prevent the air-retaining mechanism 1029 from obstructing the fluid 904 dispensed from the nozzle 902, while simultaneously facilitating the heating of the nozzle 902 with heated air.

[0140] The air containment mechanism 1029 is in fluid communication with the air deflector 927, thus allowing air 906 to pass freely between the air deflector 927 and the air containment mechanism 1029.

[0141] The air-retaining mechanism 1029 can be configured to be removably and replaceably attached to the fuel dispensing device, such as by being configured to clamp onto and release from it, or by being configured to snap onto and detach from the nozzle 902. The removable and replaceable air-retaining mechanism 1029 facilitates retrofitting of the air-retaining mechanism 1029 for existing nozzles and / or facilitates the repair, cleaning, etc., of the nozzle 902. In other embodiments, the air-retaining mechanism 1029 can be non-removably attached to the fuel dispensing device, such as by being integrally formed with the fuel dispensing device, or by welding it to it.

[0142] In this illustrated embodiment, the air-receiving mechanism 1029 has a generally cylindrical shape to correspond to the generally cylindrical external shape of the nozzle 902 in this illustrated embodiment, but the air-receiving mechanism 1029 can have other shapes.

[0143] In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing device can be configured to heat the nozzle of the fuel dispensing device using heated air released from the fuel dispensing device through an air exit opening, the air exit opening being located within or adjacent to a nozzle guard of the fuel dispensing device. The air exit opening can be oriented toward the nozzle guard to help guide the heated air toward the nozzle guard, and thus toward the nozzle when the nozzle is seated in the nozzle guard. The heated air exiting the air exit opening can therefore be configured to heat the nozzle guard and, when the nozzle is seated in the nozzle guard, heat the nozzle. In some embodiments, the nozzle can include an air exit opening located adjacent to the nozzle guard of the fuel dispensing device, such as in the case of an air exit opening 112. Figure 1 In an embodiment of nozzle 102, including air exiting opening 412 Figure 17 and Figure 27 In the embodiment of nozzle 402, including air exit opening 512 Figure 21 In an embodiment of nozzle 502, including air exit opening 712 Figure 24 In embodiments of nozzle 702, and in embodiments including air exit opening 912 Figure 26 and Figure 28In an embodiment of nozzle 902. In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing device may include a conduit disposed within the fuel dispensing device, such as within its housing, which may include an air exit opening positioned adjacent to a nozzle guard of the fuel dispensing device. The heated air flowing through the conduit may include ambient air from within the housing, which has already been heated within the housing, such that the conduit may be configured to redirect the heated air toward the nozzle.

[0144] Figure 30 An embodiment of a fuel distribution device 1 is shown, comprising a first conduit 9 disposed within the fuel distribution device 1 and having an air exit opening 19 positioned adjacent to a nozzle guard 12 of the fuel distribution device 1. The device 1 may include a hose 4, a nozzle 5, a fluid supply 14, and a fluid meter 20. The device 1 may also include a housing 21, which is generally divided into an electronics compartment 2 and a hydraulic compartment 3.

[0145] In this illustrated embodiment, the fluid supply 14 has the form of a reservoir configured to be located underground. The fluid (e.g., fuel) in the fluid supply 14 can be configured to proceed from the fluid supply 14 through a fluid line 13 extending to the fluid meter 20 into the hose 4.

[0146] In this illustrated embodiment, the hose 4 is configured to circulate fuel therein, which facilitates fuel heating. Typically, the fuel can circulate within the hose 4 using a circulation system, while also allowing the fuel 4 to be dispensed from the nozzle 5 as needed. An exemplary embodiment of a circulation system configured to circulate fluid within the hose of a fluid dispensing device is further described in WO 2011 / 054400, filed November 9, 2009, entitled “Fluid Dispensing Unit Having A Circulation System And a Method For Circulation A Fluid In A Fluid Dispensing Unit,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0147] As illustrated in this embodiment, the circulation system may include: a heating element 6, an internal fluid reservoir 15 communicating with the heating element 6 (e.g., directly connected to or positioned adjacent to the heating element 6), a first fluid conduit 16 extending from the internal fluid reservoir 15 and coaxially through a hose 4, a second fluid conduit 17 extending between the hose 4 and the internal fluid reservoir 15, and a motor 8 configured to drive fuel for fuel circulation. Fuel may be configured to circulate from the internal fluid reservoir 14 through the first fluid conduit 16, exiting a distal opening of the first fluid conduit 16, and through the hose 4 and the second fluid conduit 17 back to the internal fluid reservoir 14. The first fluid conduit 16 may have a distal opening (not shown) in the fluid hose 4, for example, a fluid exit opening positioned near a nozzle 5. The fuel dispensing device 1 may include a valve (not shown) configured to control when fuel flows through the distal opening or recirculates in the hose 4. Electronic devices (e.g., controllers, microprocessors, CPUs, etc.) housed in the electronics compartment 2 may be configured to control the opening and closing of the valve.

[0148] As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the hose 4 can be included in a coaxial passage to facilitate fuel heating. In this illustrated embodiment, fuel can flow in the inner coaxial passage in the direction from the inner fluid reservoir 15 toward the nozzle 5, as indicated by the first flow arrow 22, and can flow in the outer coaxial passage in the direction toward the inner fluid reservoir 15, as indicated by the first flow arrow 23.

[0149] When the fuel dispensing device 1 is not in use, for example when the nozzle 5 is seated in the nozzle guard 12 and fuel is not being dispensed from it, fuel can circulate within the hose 4. The circulation system thus helps prevent stagnant fuel remaining in the hose 4 and / or nozzle 5 from freezing.

[0150] The fuel dispensing device 1 may include one or more temperature sensors (not shown) configured to sense the temperature of the fluid in the hose 4, the temperature of the fluid in the nozzle 5, the ambient temperature inside the housing 21 (e.g., inside the hydraulic compartment 3), and / or the ambient outdoor temperature outside the housing 21. Electronic devices (e.g., controllers, microprocessors, CPUs, etc.) housed in the electronics compartment 2 may use the sensed temperatures to control the start and stop of fuel circulation in the hose 4. For example, if the sensed temperature is greater than a predetermined threshold temperature, such as the temperature at which fuel can begin to crystallize, circulation may be stopped, and if the sensed temperature is less than the predetermined threshold temperature, circulation may be started.

[0151] For example, the electronic devices in the electronic device compartment 2 can use the sensed temperature to control the amount of heat provided by the heating element 6, and thus control how much fuel is heated. For example, if the sensed temperature is within a first predetermined temperature range, the heating element 6 can provide a first level of heat, and if the sensed temperature is within a second predetermined temperature range (below the first predetermined range), the heating element 6 can provide a second level of heat greater than the first level.

[0152] For example, the electronics in the electronics compartment 2 can use the sensed temperature to control the flow rate of fuel circulating in the hose 4, for example, by controlling the power output of the motor 8. The fuel distribution unit 1 can include a proportional valve (not shown) configured to facilitate flow rate control. Generally, the higher the power output of the motor, the higher the flow rate of fuel in the hose 4, and the more fuel is heated. For example, if the sensed temperature is higher than a predetermined threshold temperature, the motor 8 can provide a first power output, and if the sensed temperature is lower than the predetermined threshold temperature, the motor 8 can provide a second power output greater than the first power output.

[0153] The heating element 6, motor 8, and fan 7 can be configured to cooperate in providing and transporting heated air through the first conduit 9 and out of the air exit opening 19. In this illustrated embodiment, the fan 7 and motor 8 are separate, independent components, but they can also be part of a single unit providing both fan and motor functions. In this illustrated embodiment, the first conduit 9 comprises a rigid elongated tube, but it can have other configurations, such as a flexible elongated tube. Generally, the first conduit 9 can be configured to deliver heated air from within the housing 21 in the direction of the conduit arrow 25 to the nozzle shield 12, thus facilitating heating of the nozzle 5 when it is seated within the nozzle shield 5. The first conduit 9 can be cylindrical, with heated air passed through its cylindrical interior, for example, through its internal lumen. As discussed herein, the fuel dispensing device 1 can include an air receiving mechanism (not shown) configured to facilitate heating of the nozzle 5 using the heated air entering the nozzle shield 12.

[0154] The proximal end of the first conduit 9 can communicate with the heating element 6, so that air adjacent to the heating element 6 can be transmitted into the first conduit 9 through the proximal opening 24. The distal end of the first conduit 9 can communicate with the nozzle shield 12, so that air can leave the first conduit 9 and enter the nozzle shield 12 through the air exit opening 19 of the first conduit.

[0155] The heated air delivered through the first conduit 9 can be ambient air from within the housing 21, for example, ambient air from within the hydraulic compartment 3. In this way, a separate air supply is not required. As in this illustrated embodiment, the heating element 6 can be positioned upstream of the fan 7 such that air drawn into the first conduit 9 by the fan 7 is brought close to the heating element 6 so that it is heated by the heating element 6 before being drawn into the first conduit 9. In this way, as mentioned above, the heated air can enter the first conduit 9 through its proximal opening communicating with the heating element 6.

[0156] The motor 8 can be configured to drive the fan 7. The motor 8 can therefore be configured to drive the circulation of fuel through the hose 4 and to drive the flow of heated air through the first duct 9.

[0157] Similar to the discussion above regarding the circulation of fuel in hose 4, the sensed temperature can be used to: control the start and stop of delivering heated air into the first duct 9 (e.g., by starting and stopping fan 7); control the amount of heat provided by heating element 6, thus controlling how much air in the first duct 9 is heated; and / or control the flow rate of heated air within the first duct 9 (e.g., by controlling the rotational speed of fan 7).

[0158] The fuel dispensing device 1 in this illustrated embodiment includes a second hose 4a, which can be configured to circulate fuel similarly to hose 4, and another first conduit 9a, which can be configured to heat the second nozzle shield 12a similarly to the first conduit 9. The fuel dispensing device 1 can therefore include a second motor 8a, a second fuel line 13a, a second internal fluid reservoir 15a, another first fluid conduit 16a, another second fluid conduit 17a, and a second fluid meter 20a. The heating element 6 and the fan 7 can be configured to facilitate heating of the two nozzle shields 12, 12a and the two hoses 4, 4a.

[0159] In some embodiments, the fuel dispensing device can be configured to heat its housing, for example, to heat the interior of the housing. Figure 31 An embodiment of a fuel distribution device 1b configured to heat its housing 21 is shown. Figure 31 The fuel distribution equipment lb is similar to Figure 30 The fuel distribution device 1 has corresponding components with the same name and number. (And in...) Figure 30 The embodiment illustrated in the middle (where the fan 7 is positioned above the heating element 6, for example, closer to the top of the hydraulic compartment 3) differs from the one shown in the middle. Figure 31 Embodiments include a fan 7b positioned below the heating element 6, for example closer to 26, and Figure 31 An embodiment includes a second catheter 10.

[0160] Generally, the second conduit 10 can be configured to facilitate heating of the housing 21 by passing heated air through it and exiting its distal opening 27 (located within the housing 21, for example, within the hydraulic compartment 3 of the housing 21). The proximal end of the second conduit 10 can communicate with the heating element 6, allowing air adjacent to the heating element 6 to be passed into the second conduit 10 through its proximal opening 28. The distal opening 27 can be positioned adjacent to the bottom of the housing 21, for example, the bottom of the hydraulic compartment 3, and can be guided toward the bottom of the housing 21, for example, the bottom of the hydraulic compartment 3. In this way, the heated air exiting the second conduit 10 can rise upwards, thus facilitating effective heating of the interior of the housing (e.g., the interior of the hydraulic compartment).

[0161] The heated air delivered through the second conduit 10 can be ambient air from within the housing 21, for example, from the hydraulic compartment 3. In this way, a separate air supply is not required. As in this illustrated embodiment, the heating element 6 can be positioned upstream of the fan 7b such that the air drawn into the second conduit 10 by the fan 7b is close to the heating element 6 so that it has been heated by the heating element 6 before being drawn into the second conduit 10. In this way, the heated air can enter the second conduit 10 through its proximal opening 28, which communicates with the heating element 6.

[0162] Motor 8 can be configured to drive fan 7b. Motor 8 can therefore be configured to drive the circulation of fuel through hose 4 and drive the flow of heated air through second duct 10.

[0163] Similar to the discussion above regarding the circulation of fuel in hose 4, the sensed temperature can be used to: control the start and stop of delivering heated air into the second duct 10 (e.g., by starting and stopping fan 7b); to control the amount of heat provided by heating element 6, thus controlling how much air is heated in the second duct 10; and / or to control the flow rate of heated air within the second duct 10 (e.g., by controlling the rotational speed of fan 7b).

[0164] Figure 32 Another embodiment of a fuel distribution device lc configured to heat its housing 21 is shown. Figure 32 The fuel distribution equipment lc is similar to Figure 30The fuel distribution device 1 has correspondingly named and numbered components. In this illustrated embodiment, the fuel distribution device 1 includes a third conduit 11, which is generally configured to facilitate heating of the housing 21 by passing heated air through it and exiting its distal opening 29 (located within the housing 21, for example, within the hydraulic compartment 3 of the housing 21). The proximal end of the third conduit 11 can communicate with the heating element 6, such that air adjacent to the heating element 6 can be passed into the third conduit 11 through the proximal opening 30. The distal opening 29 can be positioned adjacent to the top of the housing 21, for example, the top of the hydraulic compartment 3, and can be guided toward the top of the housing 21, for example, the top of the hydraulic compartment 3. In this way, since heated air tends to rise, air that has risen to the top of the housing 21 (for example, at the top of the hydraulic compartment 3) can be guided from the top to the bottom, thus facilitating effective heating of the interior of the housing (for example, the interior of the hydraulic compartment).

[0165] The heated air delivered through the third conduit 11 can be ambient air from within the housing 21, for example, from the hydraulic compartment 3. In this way, a separate air supply is not required. As in this illustrated embodiment, the heating element 6 can be positioned upstream of the fan 7c such that the air drawn into the third conduit 11 by the fan 7c is close to the heating element 6 so that it has been heated by the heating element 6 before being drawn into the third conduit 11. In this way, the heated air can enter the third conduit 11 through its proximal opening 30, which communicates with the heating element 6.

[0166] Motor 8 can be configured to drive fan 7c. Motor 8 can therefore be configured to drive the circulation of fuel through hose 4 and drive the flow of heated air through third duct 11.

[0167] Similar to the discussion above regarding the circulation of fuel in hose 4, the sensed temperature can be used to: control the start and stop of delivering heated air into the third duct 11 (e.g., by starting and stopping fan 7c); to control the amount of heat provided by heating element 6, thus controlling how much air is heated in the third duct 11; and / or to control the flow rate of heated air within the third duct 11 (e.g., by controlling the rotational speed of fan 7c).

[0168] Fuel distribution equipment, such as regarding Figure 1-32 Any of the described fuel distribution devices can include a correspondingly similar Figure 30-32The first, second, and third conduits 9, 10, and 11 are constructed as any one or more of the first, second, and third conduits. A fuel distribution device including at least two of the first, second, and third conduits can be configured to effectively prevent fluid freezing, at least because: multiple identical components (e.g., identical heating elements and identical fans) can be used to provide heating via two or more conduits, and / or identical temperature sensor readings can be used to simultaneously control heating via multiple conduits (e.g., starting and stopping the fan can simultaneously start and stop airflow through multiple conduits, accelerating or decelerating the fan can simultaneously change the flow rate in multiple conduits, changing the heating level of the heating element can simultaneously change how hot the heated air is in each of the multiple conduits, etc.). Similarly, a fuel distribution device including at least one of the first, second, and third conduits and including a hose configured to circulate fluid through the fuel distribution device can be configured to effectively prevent fluid freezing, at least because multiple identical components can be used to provide heat via (multiple) conduits and hoses, and / or identical temperature sensor readings can be used to simultaneously control heating via (multiple) conduits and hoses.

[0169] In some embodiments, the fluid dispensing device can include a heating element configured to directly heat fluid that can be dispensed from the fluid dispensing device. The heating element can be at least partially disposed within each of the nozzles and hoses of the fluid dispensing device, thus allowing the fluid to be heated in both the nozzles and hoses. The heating element can be configured to heat the fluid without heated air flowing through the hoses and / or nozzles, such as in [the case of] [the following]. Figure 1 , Figure 16 , Figure 21 , Figure 24 , Figure 26-28 and Figure 30-32 In the depicted embodiment of heated airflow, the fluid distribution device can therefore be manufactured less expensively and / or less complexly, as it does not require an airflow system that facilitates airflow through hoses and / or nozzles. The heating element can be configured to be retrofitted into existing nozzles and hoses, which allows for flexibility of use and / or reduces costs (e.g., by not requiring the purchase of a new fluid distribution device to provide fluid heating).

[0170] Figure 33An embodiment of a heating assembly 1100 is shown, configured to be included in a fluid distribution device and to heat fluid that can be distributed from the fluid distribution device. As further discussed below, the heating assembly 1100 has: a proximal portion configured to be disposed within a hose of the fluid distribution system; and a distal portion configured to be disposed within a nozzle coupled to the distal end of the hose. This configuration allows the heating assembly 1100 to heat the fluid within both the hose and the nozzle. The heating assembly 1100 can be configured to be completely contained within the hose and the nozzle, which helps to efficiently direct the heat provided by the heating assembly 1100 to the fluid within the hose and the nozzle, and / or helps to prevent the heating assembly 1100 from being damaged or harmed during installation in the fluid distribution device.

[0171] The heating assembly 1100 can have various sizes, shapes, and configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating assembly 1100 includes: a conductive outer extension tube 1102, an outer tube 1104 having a distal end 1104d attached to a proximal end 1102p of the outer extension tube 1102, and a heating element 1106 that extends at least partially through each of the outer extension tube 1102 and the outer tube 1104, for example, with its distal portion disposed within the outer extension tube 1102 and its proximal portion disposed within the outer tube 1104.

[0172] The external extension tube 1102 can have various sizes, shapes, and configurations, and can be formed from various conductive materials, such as one or more conductive metals or conductive polymers. In an exemplary embodiment, the external extension tube 1102 is a rigid member formed of a rigid material. The rigidity of the external extension tube 1102 facilitates its secure positioning within the nozzle. In the illustrated embodiment, the external extension tube 1102 is formed of stainless steel, but it can be formed of other materials in other embodiments.

[0173] The longitudinal length 1102L of the external extension tube 1102 can be varied. Generally, and as further discussed below, the longitudinal length 1102L of the external extension tube can vary based on the size of the nozzle to which the heating assembly 1100 is to be attached. For example, when used with a nozzle having a relatively shallow proximal portion (in which the external extension tube 1102 is housed), the longitudinal length 1102L of the external extension tube can be relatively short, and when used with a nozzle having a relatively deep proximal portion (in which the external extension tube 1102 is housed), the longitudinal length 1102L of the external extension tube can be relatively long. The longitudinal length 1102L can therefore be customized for use with a particular nozzle to help heat as much fluid as possible within the nozzle.

[0174] The external extension pipe 1102 can include the well portion 1108 formed therein (see...) Figure 36 and Figure 37(This will be discussed further below). The well portion 1108 can be formed in the proximal end portion 1102p of the outer extension tube 1102, and it can extend from the proximal end portion 1102p along at least a portion of the longitudinal length of the outer extension tube 1102. The well portion 1108 can be configured to seat the distal end portion of the heating element 1106 therein, as in... Figure 33 As shown in the diagram, the distal end of the heating element can thus be configured to be disposed within the nozzle, and the external extension tube 1102 is disposed within the nozzle. The well portion 1108 can have a closed distal end so as to extend along a portion of the longitudinal length 1102L of the external extension tube.

[0175] The proximal end 1102p of the outer extension tube 1102 may include a mating feature 1110 configured to mate with the distal end 1104d of the outer tube 1104. The mating feature 1110 may have various sizes, shapes, and configurations. The mating feature 1110 may include a recess, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, configured to seat the outer tube 1104 therein. The recess may include ribs thereon, as shown, which facilitate the mating of the outer extension tube 1102 to the outer tube using an interference fit. Adhesive may be used additionally to or as an alternative to the mating feature 1110 to help mate the outer tube 1104 and the outer extension tube 1102 together. Other examples of mating features include protrusions configured to mate with corresponding recesses, recesses configured to mate with corresponding protrusions, snap-fit ​​members, threads, etc.

[0176] The outer tube 1104 can also have various sizes, shapes, and configurations, and can be formed from various materials. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer tube 1104 is thermally conductive, for example, allowing heat to be transferred from the heating element 1106 therein, and is a flexible member formed of a flexible material. The flexibility of the outer tube 1104 facilitates user manipulation of the hose in which the outer tube 1104 is housed. In this illustrated embodiment, the outer extension tube 1102 is made of Teflon. ® It can be formed from other materials, but in other embodiments it can be formed from other materials.

[0177] Heating element 1106 can be constructed similarly to other heating elements discussed herein, for example, it can include a PTC heater or heating cable. (As in...) Figure 33-35 As shown, the heating element 1106 includes a non-conductive tube 1112 (also referred to herein as a "sleeve") having one or more electrical leads 1114 extending longitudinally through it and configured to radiate heat. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating element 1106 includes two electrical leads 1114. The sleeve 1112 can be a flexible member, allowing both the sleeve 1112 and the flexible hose disposed around it to flex during use. In this illustrated embodiment, the sleeve 1112 is made of Teflon.® However, the sleeve 1112 can also be formed from other flexible materials.

[0178] The heating element 1106 can be as follows: Figure 34 The diagram shows a sealed distal end 1106d. In cases where fluid transfer to the external extension tube 1102 or outer tube 1104 is unlikely, the sealed distal end 1106d helps prevent fluid surrounding the external extension tube 1102 and outer tube 1104 from contacting the electrical lead 1114 within the casing 1112. The sealed distal end 1106d thus acts as a second line of defense for the tubes 1102 and 1104, protecting the electrical lead 1114. The sealed distal end 1106d can be housed within the well section 1108, as shown in... Figure 33 In this embodiment, as mentioned above, it can be placed inside the nozzle. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealed distal end 1106d is positioned adjacent to the closed end of the well portion 1108, such that the heating element 1106 extends through the entire length of the well portion 1108.

[0179] The distal end 1106d of the heating element can be sealed in various ways. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end 1106d of the heating element is mechanically sealed using a non-conductive blocker 1116 disposed therein. The illustrated non-conductive blocker 1116 is rubber, but it can be formed from any number of other materials. The non-conductive blocker 1116 can be configured to be disposed within the sleeve 1112 to act as a barrier between the electrical lead 1114 and the external fluid in the event of a leak.

[0180] As a supplement or alternative to the protective measure, the distal end of the sleeve 1112 can be configured to be rolled up or folded into itself and secured around the lead 1114. The distal end of the sleeve can be temporarily heated to facilitate its rolling up around the lead 1114. The distal end of the lead 1114 (e.g., approximately 0.25 in.) can be trimmed or otherwise removed, such as in Figure 35 As shown, the lead 1114 terminates near the distal folded end of the sleeve. The folded or rolled-up end thus acts as an additional barrier and also helps to provide space for the non-conductive blockage 1116 to be secured within the distal end of the sleeve 1112.

[0181] In another embodiment, such as in Figure 36 As shown, the heating element 1200 may include a sleeve 1202 having a distal end 1202d ultrasonically welded to form a seal. The proximal end 1202p of the sleeve is similarly sealed in the illustrated embodiment, but the proximal end 1202p may be left open to facilitate connection of the heating element's electrical leads 1204 to a source of electrical power. Figure 36Also shown is a sleeve 1202 as a separate element (pre-sealed) on the left side of the sealed heating element 1200, and a sleeve 1202 (pre-sealed) having an electrical lead 1204 disposed therein on the left side of the separate element.

[0182] Reference again Figure 33 In an embodiment, the heating assembly 1100 may include a heat transfer element 1118, in Figure 37-40 As shown, it is configured to facilitate heat transfer from the heating element 1106 to the outside of the heating assembly 1100, for example, to a fluid outside the heating assembly 1100. In an exemplary embodiment, the heat transfer element 1118 can be disposed within the space 1120 surrounding the heating element 1106 within the external extension tube 1102 (see [link to example]). Figure 40 In, for example, within a gap defined between the outer surface of the heating element 1106 and the inner surface of the external extension tube 1102, so as to surround the heating element 1106. The heat transfer element 1118 is able to transfer heat better than air, for example, transferring approximately 10° to 15° more heat than air, which helps the heating assembly 1100 to better heat the fluid in the fluid distribution system, thus allowing the fluid distribution system to operate better in cold environments.

[0183] The heat transfer element 1118 can have various sizes, shapes, and configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, the heat transfer element 1118 is a conductive member configured to house the heating element 1106 therein. As those skilled in the art will understand, the conductive member can be made of various conductive materials, such as metals (e.g., aluminum, copper, etc.) or conductive polymers. In the illustrated embodiment, the heat transfer element 1118 is made of aluminum. The heat transfer element 1118 is configured to house the heating element 1106 within a hollow interior 1118h extending longitudinally therein, as in... Figure 38 and Figure 39 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the hollow interior 1118h has an inner diameter that closely conforms to the outer diameter of the heating element 1106, allowing the components to be in direct contact with each other for heat transfer. In other embodiments, the heat transfer element may comprise or have the form of a heat transfer epoxy resin or heat transfer paste, which is delivered into a well portion 1108 surrounding the heating element 1106. The well portion 1108 may have a closed distal end, which facilitates the containment of the epoxy resin or paste within the external extension tube 1102.

[0184] The external extension tube 1102, for example, its well portion 1108, can be configured to house the entire heat transfer element 1118 therein, as in Figure 40As shown in the diagram. The heat transfer element 1118 can therefore be configured to facilitate the transfer of heat from the heating element 1106 through the external extension tube 1102 to the environment surrounding the external extension tube 1102, in which the fluid can be located when the heating assembly 1100 is connected to the nozzle and hose.

[0185] Figure 41 A heating assembly 1100 is shown attached to an embodiment of a hose 1300, which is configured to be attached to a swivel (not shown) on a fuel dispenser. The hose 1300 and swivel can be constructed and used in a manner generally similar to other hoses and swivels described herein. Examples of hoses 1300 include the Elaflex EFL 21 hose and the Flextral PE60-100 hose. Examples of swivels include the Franklin SS Omni DEF1X34P and the Franklin SS Omni DEF1M34.

[0186] As in Figure 41 As shown, the outer tube 1104 of the heating assembly 1100 (e.g., a flexible portion of the longitudinal length of the heating assembly) can be configured to be substantially housed within the hose 1300 and thus extend along the entire length of the hose. The outer extension tube 1102 (e.g., a rigid portion of the longitudinal length of the heating assembly) can be configured to be positioned substantially outside the hose 1300. The outer extension tube 1102 can therefore be configured to be substantially housed within a nozzle (not shown) coupled to the rotating member. The outer extension tube 1102 thus has a proximal end positioned adjacent to the distal end of the outer tube 1104 and adjacent to an opening in the nozzle, and the outer extension tube 1102 extends through the nozzle for approximately its length.

[0187] As mentioned above, the longitudinal length 1102L of the external extension tube can be changed based on the type of nozzle to which it is attached. Figures 42-46 Show Figure 41 The illustrated embodiment includes a flexible hose 1300 and a heating assembly 1100, wherein an embodiment of a swivel member 1302 is configured to attach to the distal end of the flexible hose, and an embodiment of a nozzle 1304 is configured to attach to the proximal end of the swivel member 1302. The swivel member 1302 in this illustrated embodiment includes an Elaflex ZVA, but other swivel members can be used as mentioned herein. The nozzle 1304 in this illustrated embodiment includes an OPW 19DEF nozzle, but other types of nozzles can also be attached to the heating assembly 1100 and other embodiments of the heating assembly described herein, as mentioned herein. Figure 45 and Figure 46 As shown, the heating assembly 1100 can be configured to be completely housed within the nozzle 1304 and the hose 1300.

[0188] Figures 47-51 Show Figures 42-46 The hose 1300 and the rotating part 1302, wherein, in another embodiment, the outer extension tube 1400 is part of the heating assembly (the rest of the heating assembly is in...). Figures 47-51 (The nozzle is partially obscured), and another embodiment of nozzle 1306 has a proximal end configured to attach to the rotating member 1302. The nozzle 1306 in the illustrated embodiment is an OPW21GU nozzle, but as mentioned herein, other types of nozzles can be attached to this heating assembly and other embodiments attached to the heating assembly described herein. Compared to Figures 42-46 Nozzle 1304, Figures 47-51 The nozzle has a smaller amount of usable space at its proximal end. Accordingly, Figures 47-51 The external extension tube 1400 has a size smaller than Figures 42-46 The longitudinal length 1102L of the external extension tube 1102 allows the external extension tube 1400 to be seated inside the nozzle 1306.

[0189] As mentioned above, the heating element of the heating assembly can be connected to a power supply and controls configured to provide power to the heating element. Figure 52 The system shown includes a heating element 1502 configured to supply power to a heating assembly. Figure 2 The power supply and control 144, the heating assembly also includes an external extension tube (not shown), an optional heat transfer element (not shown), and an outer tube 1500, which allows the heating element 1502 to extend longitudinally through its internal passage 1504. Figure 52 The system is similar to Figure 2 The system, except that it includes a heating component but does not include an inner tube 124 of the hose 100, an air supply, or air flowing through an outer tube 120 of the hose 100.

[0190] Figure 53Another embodiment of the system is shown, which includes a power supply and control 1600 configured to provide power to a heating element 1602 of a heating assembly. The heating assembly also includes an external extension tube 1604, an optional heat transfer element (not shown), and an outer tube 1606 having the heating element 1602 extending longitudinally through its internal passage 1608. The system also includes: a hose 1610; a nozzle 1612 configured to substantially house the external extension tube 1604 therein and configured to be coupled to a distal end of the hose 1610; a swivel 1614 configured to connect the hose 1610 and the nozzle 1612 together; and a fluid meter 1616. The fluid meter 1616 may have: an inlet 1618 configured to be coupled to a fluid supply (not shown); a valve 1620 configured to facilitate fluid flow therethrough; and a filter 1622 having a second heating element 1624 wound around it and extending through the fluid meter 1616. The second heating element 1624 can be configured to heat the fluid flowing through the fluid meter 1616 before the fluid enters the hose 1610. The power supply and control 1600 can include a heating module 1626 connected to a power connector 1628 configured to connect to a power source, such as a battery, a power output port, etc.

[0191] A fluid dispensing device including multiple nozzles can include a heating assembly for each of the nozzles in any of the embodiments of the heating assemblies described herein, thus including multiple heating assemblies. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the multiple heating assemblies can be identical to each other.

[0192] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including its best mode, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined method. The patent scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples as conceived by a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are contemplated within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the written language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the written language of the claims.

Claims

1. A heating assembly for use with a fuel dispenser hose and nozzle, the heating assembly comprising: A conductive external extension tube having a first end with a well portion formed therein, the well portion extending at least partially through the conductive external extension tube; A flexible outer tube having a longitudinal passage extending therethrough, the first end of the flexible outer tube being connected to the first end of the conductive external extension tube; An internal conductive extension tube extends through the external conductive extension tube, the internal conductive extension tube having a first end that engages with the first end of the external conductive extension tube; as well as A heating element that extends longitudinally through the longitudinal passage of the flexible outer tube and at least partially through the longitudinal passage in the conductive inner extension tube, the heating element being configured to heat fluid around the conductive outer extension tube.

2. The component according to claim 1, wherein, The heating element includes a tube, and the assembly further includes a non-conductive blockage disposed within a first end of the tube.

3. The component according to claim 2, wherein, The first end of the tube is positioned within the longitudinal passage of the conductive internal extension tube.

4. The component according to claim 2, wherein, The first end of the tube is disposed within the longitudinal passage of the conductive external extension tube.

5. The component according to claim 1, wherein, The conductive external extension tube has a second end, which is configured to be connected to a nozzle of the fuel distributor.

6. The component according to claim 1, wherein, The flexible outer tube has a second end configured to be connected to a fluid outlet on a fuel distributor.

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