Improvements in or relating to gas devices

Abstract

A gas generating device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; a liquid level control system operable to control a liquid level of a fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; a gas separator configured to separate the gas from the filtration unit; and a separated gas outlet configured to receive the separated compressed gas from the gas separator. The liquid level control system comprises a liquid level control device, the liquid level control device includes a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion, a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion, a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal, and a fluid outlet valve.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a gas generation apparatus, a gas processing apparatus, a liquid level control apparatus, a liquid level control system and an operation method thereof. The present invention also relates to a valve apparatus, an operation method thereof, a gas processing apparatus including the valve apparatus, a gas generation apparatus including the valve apparatus and an operation method thereof.

[0002] Known gas processing devices and gas generating devices include an air intake unit, a compressor unit, an air filtering unit, a drainage system and a gas storage tank. Although such devices are capable of processing and generating filtered atmospheric air, they are susceptible to gas purity problems and malfunctions.

[0003] The present inventors have recognized the shortcomings of the above-described devices and systems.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and A control module is configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal.

[0005] The liquid level control device may be a sensor. The liquid level control device may be a sensor device. The liquid level control device may be used in a gas generating device. The liquid level control device may be used in a fluid discharge system of a gas generating device. The liquid level control device may be used in a fluid discharge system of a compressor.

[0006] The level control device may be automatically operable. The control module may be configured to monitor the operation of the first sensor module and the second sensor module and control the operation of the fluid outlet valve. The control module may be configured to operate according to output signals received from the first sensor module and the second sensor module.

[0007] The liquid level control device may be operable to control the liquid level in the gas generating device. The liquid level control device may be operable to control the liquid level in the fluid discharge system of the gas generating device. The liquid level control device may be operable to control the liquid level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the gas generating device. The liquid level control device may be operable to control the liquid level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the compressed air system.

[0008] The liquid level control device may be operable to control the water level in the gas generating device. The liquid level control device may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the gas generating device. The liquid level control device may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the gas generating device. The liquid level control device may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the compressed air system.

[0009] The source of fluid, water or moisture may be from a compressor, a compressed air system, or the like.

[0010] The fluid may be water. The water may be water removed from a dehumidification system of a gas generating device. The water may be formed by condensation of water vapor removed from a dehumidification system of a gas generating device. The fluid may include one or more types of particles. The fluid may include particles found in the environment near an air intake of a gas generating device or a compressor.

[0011] The body portion may be a fluid container. The body portion may be configured to hold a volume of fluid therein. The body portion may be substantially cuboid in shape.

[0012] The fluid inlet may be located on an upper portion or top portion of the body portion. The fluid outlet may be located on a lower portion or bottom portion of the body portion. The fluid inlet and fluid outlet may include fittings. The fittings may be 3 / 8'', 1 / 4'' BSPP (British Standard Parallel Pipe) fittings. However, it should be understood that other fittings may also be used.

[0013] The main body portion may have a volume of about 8 ml. The main body portion may have a volume between 4 ml and 12 ml. The main body portion may have a volume of up to 1 1.

[0014] The body portion may include a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may extend between a top and a bottom of the body portion. The body portion may include a transverse axis. The transverse axis may extend between a left side and a right side of the body portion.

[0015] Each sensor module may be configured to output one or more signals. The output signal may indicate that a fluid is sensed or detected. The output signal may indicate that a fluid is not sensed or detected. Each sensor may be configured to output a signal that varies depending on whether the sensor senses or detects a fluid. The output signal of each sensor may vary depending on whether a fluid is sensed or detected. The output signal of each sensor may vary depending on the liquid level in the main body.

[0016] Each sensor module may output a signal indicating that no fluid is sensed or detected, or a signal indicating that a fluid is sensed or detected. Each sensor module may be configured to output one or more liquid level signals. Each liquid level signal may indicate that a fluid is sensed or detected.

[0017] Each sensor module can directly sense or detect fluid. Each sensor module can indirectly sense or detect fluid. Each sensor module can sense or detect the presence of fluid in the main body portion.

[0018] Each sensor may be operable to indicate the presence of a fluid. Each sensor may be operable to output a signal representative of a change in one or more parameters measured, sensed or detected by the sensor.

[0019] The control module may be configured to receive one or more fluid level signals from each sensor.

[0020] The first sensor module may be positioned toward the lower portion of the main body portion. The second sensor module may be positioned toward the upper portion of the main body portion. The first sensor module may be located at the lower portion of the main body portion. The second sensor module may be located at the upper portion of the main body portion.

[0021] Each sensor module may be an optical sensor. Each sensor module may be configured to transmit and detect light. Each sensor module may be configured to output an electrical signal as a function of the detected light. Each sensor module may be configured to output an electrical signal representing the amount of light detected.

[0022] Each sensor module may include a light emitter and a light detector. Each sensor module may include a light emitter and a corresponding light detector.

[0023] Each sensor module may include a light emitter, a light detector, and a transparent prism.

[0024] The light emitter and light detector of each sensor module can emit and detect light between 780nm and 1mm.

[0025] The light emitter may be a light emitting diode (LED). The light detector may be a photodiode.

[0026] The control module may be configured to monitor the output of the light emitters and light detectors.The output electrical signal from each photodiode may be sent to the control module.

[0027] The light emitter and light detector may be located within the sensor module. In this arrangement, light emitted from the light emitter is refracted via a prism to the light detector and detected by the light detector.

[0028] The control module may be located on a main body portion of the liquid level control device.The control module may be attached to or attachable with a main body portion of the liquid level control device.

[0029] The control module may include a microcontroller (MC). The MC may include a power module, an input / output (I / O) module, a processor module, and a programming module. The control module may include one or more programmable memory devices. The control module may include one or more memory storage devices. The control module may include one or more computing devices. The control module may be operable to run one or more computer programs.

[0030] The control module may be operable via a 24v / 0.1A DC power supply. However, it will be appreciated that other operating power supply arrangements may be used.

[0031] The control module may be configured to receive fluid level signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module.

[0032] The control module may be configured to selectively receive the output signal from each sensor module. The control module may be configured to continuously receive the output signal from each sensor module.

[0033] The control module may be configured to output one or more alarm signals. The one or more alarm signals may indicate an unexpected or undesirable operating condition of the device. The one or more alarm signals may be audible, visual, electronic, etc.

[0034] The control module may be configured to output one or more alarm signals if any of the sensor modules outputs an unexpected signal.

[0035] The control module may be configured to output one or more alarm signals if the second module outputs an unexpected signal.In this arrangement, the unexpected signal output from the second sensor module may be a signal that fluid is retained in the body portion when the fluid should not be present.

[0036] The control module may output one or more alarm signals to one or more external independent control systems. The control module may output one or more alarm signals to a control system of the gas generating device.

[0037] Two or more control modules may be coupled. The control modules may be coupled so that the operation of each level control device may be controlled. In such an arrangement, if one control module receives a signal indicating an unexpected or undesirable operating condition, the operation of the gas generating device may be stopped.

[0038] The control module may include an apparatus status indication device. The apparatus status indication device may be configured to indicate the state or operating condition of the apparatus. The apparatus status indication device may be configured to output one or more visual signals and / or auditory signals.

[0039] The control module may be configured to send a fluid outlet valve control signal based on one or more signals received from each sensor module. The control module may be configured to selectively send a fluid outlet valve control signal based on one or more signals received from each sensor module.

[0040] The control module may be configured to send an outlet valve control signal to the fluid outlet valve. The control module may be configured to control the opening and closing of the fluid outlet valve. The control module may be configured to actuate the fluid outlet valve. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the fluid to flow out of the device. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the main body of the fluid to flow out of the device.

[0041] The fluid outlet valve may be a separate component from the liquid level control device. The fluid outlet valve may be a part of the liquid level control device.

[0042] The fluid outlet valve may be an electronically controlled valve. The fluid outlet valve may be a solenoid valve.

[0043] The control module may be operable to actuate the valve. The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of fluid through the valve. The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of fluid from the body portion.

[0044] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve. The control module may be operable to regulate the opening and closing of the valve. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve using a variable pulse. The variable pulse may be determined by the time it takes a second sensor to detect the presence and absence of fluid. The pulse period may then be fixed during the cycle. The pulse period may vary depending on the amount of fluid present / condensed.

[0045] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at one or more predetermined intervals. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals based on one or more system conditions. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals based on one or more system conditions of a gas generating device, a compressor, etc.

[0046] The control module may be operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

[0047] The control module can use pulse width modulation (PWM) to operate the valve opening and closing.

[0048] The fluid outlet valve may be a drain valve or a drain valve.

[0049] The control module may be configured to control operation of the fluid outlet valve.

[0050] The liquid level control device may further comprise a fluid outlet valve. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the flow of fluid out of the device.

[0051] The liquid level control device may further include a housing, and the main body, the first sensor module, the second sensor module, and the control module may be located in the housing.

[0052] The liquid level control device may further include a fluid outlet valve. The main body portion, the first and second sensor modules, the control module and the fluid outlet valve may be located in a housing.

[0053] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid level control system, the liquid level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve.

[0054] The control module may be configured to send a fluid outlet valve control signal based on one or more signals received from each sensor module. The control module may be configured to selectively send a fluid outlet valve control signal based on one or more signals received from each sensor module.

[0055] The control module may be configured to send an outlet valve control signal to the fluid outlet valve. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the flow of fluid out of the liquid level control device. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the flow of fluid out of the main body of the liquid level control device.

[0056] The fluid outlet valve may be separate from the liquid level control device. The fluid outlet valve may be part of the liquid level control device.

[0057] The fluid outlet valve may be an electronically controlled valve. The fluid outlet valve may be a solenoid valve.

[0058] The control module may be operable to actuate the valve. The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of fluid through the valve. The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of fluid from the body portion.

[0059] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve. The control module may be operable to regulate the opening and closing of the valve. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve using a variable pulse. The variable pulse may be determined by the time it takes a second sensor to detect the presence and absence of fluid. The pulse period may then be fixed during the cycle. The pulse period may vary depending on the amount of fluid present / condensed.

[0060] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at one or more predetermined intervals. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals based on one or more system conditions. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals based on one or more system conditions of a gas generating device, a compressor, etc.

[0061] The control module may be operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

[0062] The control module can use pulse width modulation (PWM) to operate the valve opening and closing.

[0063] The fluid outlet valve may be a drain valve.

[0064] The control module may be configured to control operation of the fluid outlet valve.

[0065] The liquid level control system may include two or more liquid level control devices.

[0066] Each level control device may have a corresponding fluid outlet valve.

[0067] The liquid level control system may include two or more fluid outlet valves. Each fluid outlet valve may be associated with a corresponding liquid level control device.

[0068] Each level control device may include a control module.

[0069] The level control device and the fluid outlet valve may be located in a housing of the level control system. Each level control device and the fluid outlet valve may be located in a housing of the level control system.

[0070] Embodiments of the second aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first aspect of the invention or its embodiments. Similarly, embodiments of the first aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the second aspect of the invention or its embodiments.

[0071] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid level control system, the liquid level control system comprising: Two or more liquid level control devices, each liquid level control device comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; A control module is configured to receive output signals from each of the first sensor module and the second sensor module and to send a fluid outlet valve control signal.

[0072] The control module may be configured to send a fluid outlet valve control signal based on one or more signals received from each sensor module. The control module may be configured to selectively send a fluid outlet valve control signal based on one or more signals received from each sensor module.

[0073] The control module may be configured to send an outlet valve control signal to the fluid outlet valve. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the flow of fluid out of each level control device. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the flow of fluid out of the main body of each device.

[0074] The fluid outlet valve may be separate from the liquid level control system. The fluid outlet valve may be part of the liquid level control system.

[0075] Each level control device may include a fluid outlet valve.

[0076] The fluid outlet valve may be an electronically controlled valve. The fluid outlet valve may be a solenoid valve.

[0077] The control module may be operable to actuate the valve. The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of fluid through the valve. The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of fluid from the body portion.

[0078] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve. The control module may be operable to regulate the opening and closing of the valve. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve using a variable pulse. The variable pulse may be determined by the time it takes a second sensor to detect the presence and absence of fluid. The pulse period may then be fixed during the cycle. The pulse period may vary depending on the amount of fluid present / condensed.

[0079] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at one or more predetermined intervals. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals based on one or more system conditions. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals based on one or more system conditions of a gas generating device, a compressor, etc.

[0080] The control module may be operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

[0081] The control module can use pulse width modulation (PWM) to operate the valve opening and closing.

[0082] The fluid outlet valve may be a drain valve.

[0083] The control module may be configured to control operation of the fluid outlet valve.

[0084] The liquid level control system may further include a fluid outlet valve. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the flow of fluid out of the system.

[0085] Each level control device may have a corresponding fluid outlet valve.

[0086] The liquid level control system may include two or more fluid outlet valves. Each fluid outlet valve may be associated with a corresponding liquid level control device.

[0087] Each level control device may include a control module.

[0088] Each level control device and the fluid outlet valve may be located in a housing of the level control system. Each level control device and the fluid outlet valve may be located in a housing of the level control system.

[0089] Embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first or second aspect of the present invention or its embodiments. Similarly, embodiments of the first or second aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the third aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0090] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gas generating device, the gas generating device comprising: Air intake unit; a compressor unit operable to draw gas through the intake unit and into the compressor unit; a filter unit configured to filter compressed gas from the compressor unit; A level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the compressed gas by the filter unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas separator configured to separate the compressed gas from the filter unit; and A gas storage tank is configured to receive and store the separated compressed gas from the gas separator.

[0091] The air intake unit may be an air intake unit.

[0092] The compressor unit may be operable to draw atmospheric air through the air intake unit.

[0093] The gas may be atmospheric air.

[0094] The gas generating device may further comprise one or more cooling units. The one or more cooling units may be located between the compressor unit and the filter unit. The cooling unit may be a fin tube cooler, a cooling coil, etc. The purpose of the cooling unit is to cool the compressed gas from the compressor unit.

[0095] The filter unit may be a fluid filter unit. The filter unit may be a steam filter unit. The filter unit may be a fluid and steam filter unit. The filter unit may be a fluid, steam and particle filter unit. The filter unit may be configured to remove fluid, steam or particles from the compressed gas from the compressor unit. The filter unit may be configured to remove moisture, coarse particles and fine particles from the compressed gas from the compressor unit.

[0096] The filter unit may include two or more filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic. The filter unit may include three filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic. The filter unit may include a plurality of filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic.

[0097] The filter unit may include a first filter component. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid, steam and particles from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid in the form of liquid and / or steam from the compressed gas.

[0098] The filter unit may include a second filter component. The second filter component may be configured to filter coarse particles from the compressed gas. The coarse particles may be mist or steam.

[0099] The filter unit may include a third filter component. The third filter component may be configured to filter fine particles from the compressed gas. The fine particles may be any material or substance larger than 0.1 microns.

[0100] The liquid level control system may include two or more liquid level control devices. The liquid level control system may include three liquid level control devices.

[0101] The first level control device may be configured to operate with a first filter component of the filter unit.

[0102] The second level control device may be configured to operate with a second filter component of the filter unit.

[0103] The third liquid level control device may be configured to operate together with a third filter component of the filter unit.

[0104] The gas separator may be an air filtration unit. The gas separator may be an air separation unit.

[0105] The gas separator may be configured to separate the compressed gas into one or more components. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to separate substantially all gas components except one gas component in the compressed gas. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to selectively separate substantially all gas components except one gas component in the compressed gas.

[0106] In the case where the compressed gas is compressed atmospheric air, the gas separator may be configured to separate the compressed atmospheric air from the filter unit into at least one of its constituent gas components. That is, the gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to separate substantially all gas components in the atmospheric air except one gas component. Thus, the gas separator of the gas generating device may be operable to selectively separate four of the five major gases present in the atmospheric air. Thus, the remaining gas present after the compressed atmospheric air passes through the gas separator of the gas generating device may be nitrogen, oxygen, argon or carbon dioxide.

[0107] The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a carbon molecular sieve filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a mole sieve filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a dryer membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a hollow fiber membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a molecular sieve. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a catalytic reactor. The gas separator may be a hydrocarbon molecular sieve. The gas separator may be a membrane. The gas separator may be a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) device. The gas separator may be a vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) device. The gas separator may be a catalytic reaction device. The gas separator may be a temperature swing adsorption (TSA) device. The gas separator may be an electrolysis device. The gas separator may be a fractionation device. The gas separator may be a chemical reaction device.

[0108] A gas storage tank may be connectable to the gas output circuit.

[0109] The gas generating device may include two or more compressor units. Each compressor unit may draw gas through an air intake unit. Alternatively, the gas generating device may include two or more air intake units, and each compressor may operate with its own air intake unit. In this arrangement, each compressor unit includes its own filter unit, liquid level control system, gas separator and air storage tank. Each gas separator may be configured to separate gas components of different compositions from the gas. Each gas separator may be configured to separate gas components of the same composition from the gas.

[0110] Where the compressed gas is compressed atmospheric air, each gas separator may be configured to filter gas components of a different composition from the atmospheric air.Each gas separator may be configured to filter gas components of the same composition from the atmospheric air.

[0111] The gas generation device may include two or more compressor units, each compressor unit being configured to operate together with a filter unit, a liquid level control system, a gas separator and a gas storage tank.

[0112] The embodiment of the fourth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect or third aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, the embodiment of the first aspect, second aspect or third aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the fourth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0113] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling a liquid level in a device, the method comprising the following steps: A liquid level control device is provided, the liquid level control device comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; operating the first sensor module to output a liquid level signal to the control module; operating the second sensor module to output a fluid level signal to the control module; and The control module is operated to send a fluid outlet valve control signal to the fluid outlet valve based on the fluid level signals received from the first sensor module and the second sensor module.

[0114] The control module may be operable to selectively send a fluid outlet valve control signal to the fluid outlet valve.

[0115] The embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect or fourth aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, the embodiment of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect or fourth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the fifth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0116] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for generating gas, the method comprising the following steps: A gas generating device is provided, the gas generating device comprising: Air intake unit; a compressor unit operable to draw gas through the intake unit and into the compressor unit; a filter unit configured to filter compressed gas from the compressor unit; A level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the compressed gas by the filter unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas separator configured to separate the compressed gas from the filter unit; and a gas storage tank configured to receive and store the separated compressed gas from the gas separator, operating the compressor unit to draw gas into the compressor unit through the air intake unit; filtering compressed gas from the compressor unit using a filter unit; operating a level control system to control a level of fluid removed from the compressed gas by the filtration unit; separating the compressed gas from the filtration unit using a gas separator; and The separated gas from the gas separator is stored in a gas storage tank.

[0117] The air intake unit may be an air intake unit.

[0118] The compressor unit may be operable to draw atmospheric air through the air intake unit.

[0119] The gas may be atmospheric air.

[0120] The embodiment of the sixth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect or fifth aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, the embodiment of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect or fifth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the sixth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0121] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a liquid level control system, the liquid level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and A housing, wherein the liquid level control device is located in the housing.

[0122] The control module may be configured to send a fluid outlet valve control signal based on one or more signals received from each sensor module. The control module may be configured to selectively send a fluid outlet valve control signal based on one or more signals received from each sensor module.

[0123] The liquid level control device may also include a fluid outlet valve.

[0124] The control module may be configured to send an outlet valve control signal to the fluid outlet valve. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the flow of fluid out of the liquid level control device. The fluid outlet valve may be configured to control the flow of fluid out of the main body of the liquid level control device.

[0125] The fluid outlet valve may be separate from the liquid level control device. The fluid outlet valve may be part of the liquid level control device.

[0126] The fluid outlet valve may be an electronically controlled valve. The fluid outlet valve may be a solenoid valve.

[0127] The control module may be operable to actuate the valve. The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of fluid through the valve. The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of fluid from the body portion.

[0128] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve. The control module may be operable to regulate the opening and closing of the valve. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve using a variable pulse. The variable pulse may be determined by the time it takes a second sensor to detect the presence and absence of fluid. The pulse period may then be fixed during the cycle. The pulse period may vary depending on the amount of fluid present / condensed.

[0129] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at one or more predetermined intervals. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals based on one or more system conditions. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals based on one or more system conditions of a gas generating device, a compressor, etc.

[0130] The control module may be operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

[0131] The control module can use pulse width modulation (PWM) to operate the valve opening and closing.

[0132] The fluid outlet valve may be a drain valve.

[0133] The control module may be configured to control operation of the fluid outlet valve.

[0134] The liquid level control system may include two or more liquid level control devices.

[0135] Each level control device may have a corresponding fluid outlet valve.

[0136] The liquid level control system may include two or more fluid outlet valves. Each fluid outlet valve may be associated with a corresponding liquid level control device.

[0137] Each level control device may include a control module.

[0138] The level control device and the fluid outlet valve may be located in a housing of the level control system. Each level control device and the fluid outlet valve may be located in a housing of the level control system.

[0139] The embodiment of the seventh aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect or sixth aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, the embodiment of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect or sixth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the seventh aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0140] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gas generating device, the gas generating device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A level control system operable to control the level of a fluid removed from a gas by a filtration unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas separator configured to separate gas from the filter unit; and a separated gas outlet configured to receive separated gas from the gas separator; The air intake unit may be an air intake unit. The air intake unit may be an atmospheric air intake unit. The air intake unit may be a compressed gas intake unit.

[0141] The gas may be atmospheric air. The gas may be compressed gas.

[0142] The gas inlet may be configured to draw atmospheric air through the gas inlet and into the device. The gas inlet may include an air intake unit. The air intake unit may be operable to draw atmospheric air through the gas inlet and into the gas generating device. The air intake unit may be operable to draw gas through the gas inlet and into the gas generating device. The air intake unit may be operable to draw compressed gas through the gas inlet and into the gas generating device.

[0143] The gas inlet may be configured to allow cooled atmospheric air to enter the device. The gas inlet may be configured to allow compressed atmospheric air or compressed gas to enter the device. The gas inlet may be configured to allow cooled compressed atmospheric air or cooled compressed gas to enter the device. The compressed atmospheric air may be cooled compressed atmospheric air. The compressed gas may be cooled compressed gas.

[0144] The gas inlet may be configured to supply atmospheric air.The gas inlet may be configured to supply compressed atmospheric air.The gas inlet may be configured to supply cooled compressed atmospheric air.

[0145] The filter unit may be a fluid filter unit. The filter unit may be a steam filter unit. The filter unit may be a fluid and steam filter unit. The filter unit may be a fluid, steam and particle filter unit. The filter unit may be configured to remove fluid, steam or particles from the compressed gas from the gas inlet. The filter unit may be configured to remove moisture, coarse particles and fine particles from the compressed gas from the gas inlet.

[0146] The filter unit may include two or more filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic. The filter unit may include three filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic. The filter unit may include a plurality of filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic.

[0147] The filter unit may include a first filter component. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid, steam and particles from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid in the form of liquid and / or steam from the compressed gas.

[0148] The filter unit may include a second filter component. The second filter component may be configured to filter coarse particles from the compressed gas. The coarse particles may be mist or steam.

[0149] The filter unit may include a third filter component. The third filter component may be configured to filter fine particles from the compressed gas. The fine particles may be any material or substance larger than 0.1 microns.

[0150] The liquid level control system may include two or more liquid level control devices. The liquid level control system may include two liquid level control devices. The liquid level control system may include two liquid level control devices.

[0151] The first level control device may be configured to operate with a first filter component of the filter unit.

[0152] The second level control device may be configured to operate with a second filter component of the filter unit.

[0153] The third liquid level control device may be configured to operate together with a third filter component of the filter unit.

[0154] The gas separator may be an air filter unit. The gas separator may be an air separator unit.

[0155] The gas separator may be configured to separate the gas into one or more components. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to separate substantially all gas components except one gas component in the compressed gas. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to selectively separate substantially all gas components except one gas component in the compressed gas.

[0156] In the case where the compressed gas is compressed atmospheric air, the gas separator may be configured to separate the compressed atmospheric air from the filter unit into at least one of its constituent gas components. That is, the gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to separate substantially all gas components in the atmospheric air except one gas component. Thus, the gas separator of the gas generating device may be operable to selectively separate four of the five major gases present in the atmospheric air. Thus, the remaining gas present after the compressed atmospheric air passes through the gas separator of the gas generating device may be nitrogen, oxygen, argon or carbon dioxide.

[0157] The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a carbon molecular sieve filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a mole sieve filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a dryer membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a hollow fiber membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a molecular sieve. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a catalytic reactor. The gas separator may be a hydrocarbon molecular sieve. The gas separator may be a membrane. The gas separator may be a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) device. The gas separator may be a vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) device. The gas separator may be a catalytic reaction device. The gas separator may be a temperature swing adsorption (TSA) device. The gas separator may be an electrolysis device. The gas separator may be a fractionation device. The gas separator may be a chemical reaction device.

[0158] The apparatus may further comprise a compressor unit operable to draw gas through the air intake unit or the gas inlet or inlet filter and into the compressor unit.

[0159] The filter unit may be configured to filter compressed gas from the compressor unit.

[0160] The level control system may be operable to control the level of fluid removed from the compressed gas by the filter unit.

[0161] The device may also include a cooling unit. The cooling unit may be located between the compressor unit and the filter unit. The cooling unit may be a fin tube cooler, a cooling coil, etc. The purpose of the cooling unit is to cool the compressed gas from the compressor unit.

[0162] The filter unit may be configured to remove fluids, vapors or particles from the compressed gas from the compressor unit.The filter unit may be configured to remove moisture, coarse particles and fine particles from the compressed gas from the compressor unit.

[0163] The filter unit may include a first filter component. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid, steam and particles from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid in the form of liquid and / or steam from the compressed gas.

[0164] The filter unit may include a second filter component. The second filter component may be configured to filter coarse particles from the compressed gas. The coarse particles may be mist or steam.

[0165] The filter unit may include a third filter component. The third filter component may be configured to filter fine particles from the compressed gas. The fine particles may be any material or substance larger than 0.1 microns.

[0166] The device may further include a gas storage tank configured to receive and store the separated compressed gas from the gas separator. The gas storage tank may be located between the gas separator and the separated gas outlet.

[0167] The second air filtration unit of the gas generating device may be configured to separate the compressed gas from the filtration unit into at least one of its constituent gas components.

[0168] The separated gas outlet may be connectable to a gas output circuit.

[0169] The gas generating device may include two or more compressor units. Each compressor unit may draw gas through an air intake unit or a gas inlet or an inlet filter of the compressor unit. Alternatively, the gas generating device may include two or more air intake units, and each compressor may operate with its own air intake unit. In this arrangement, each compressor unit includes its own filter unit, a liquid level control system, a gas separator, and a separated gas outlet. Each gas separator may be configured to separate gas components of different compositions from the gas. Each gas separator may be configured to separate gas components of the same composition from the gas.

[0170] The gas generation device may include two or more compressor units, each compressor unit being configured to operate with a filter unit, a liquid level control system, a gas separator and a separated gas outlet.

[0171] The embodiment of the eighth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect or seventh aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, the embodiment of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect or seventh aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the eighth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0172] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for generating gas, the method comprising the following steps: A gas generating device is provided, the gas generating device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A level control system operable to control the level of a fluid removed from a gas by a filtration unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas separator configured to separate gas from the filter unit; and a separated gas outlet configured to receive separated compressed gas from the gas separator; providing gas to the gas inlet; filtering the gas from the gas inlet using a filter unit; operating a level control system to control a level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; separating the gas from the filtration unit using a gas separator; and The separated gas is provided to a separated gas outlet.

[0173] The air intake unit may be an air intake unit.

[0174] The gas may be atmospheric air.

[0175] Embodiments of the ninth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect or eighth aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, embodiments of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect or eighth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the ninth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0176] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a valve device, the valve device comprising: valve; and A control module is configured to control the operation of the valve.

[0177] The valve device can be used in a liquid level control device. The valve can be used in a gas generating device. The valve device can be used in a fluid discharge system of a gas generating device. The valve device can be used in a fluid discharge system of a compressor.

[0178] The valve arrangement may be automatically operable. The control module may be configured to monitor one or more control signals and control the operation of the valve. The control module may be configured to operate in accordance with one or more control signals.

[0179] The valve means may be operable to control the level of liquid in the gas generating device. The valve means may be operable to control the level of liquid in a fluid discharge system of the gas generating device. The valve means may be operable to control the level of liquid in a fluid discharge system of a dehumidification system of the gas generating device. The valve means may be operable to control the level of liquid in a fluid discharge system of a dehumidification system of a compressed air system.

[0180] The valve means may be operable to control the water level in the gas generating device. The valve means may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the gas generating device. The valve means may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the gas generating device. The valve means may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the compressed air system.

[0181] The valve may include a body portion. The control module may be mounted on or in the body portion.

[0182] The valve device may comprise a housing. The valve device may be located in the housing.

[0183] The control module may send a valve control signal to the valve.The control module may be operable to send a control signal to the valve.

[0184] The control module may be located on a main body portion of the valve device.The control module may be located on the valve.The control module may be attached to or attachable to a main body portion of the valve device.

[0185] The control module may include a microcontroller (MC). The MC may include a power module, an input / output (I / O) module, a processor module, and a programming module. The control module may include one or more programmable memory devices. The control module may include one or more memory storage devices. The control module may include one or more computing devices. The control module may be operable to run one or more computer programs.

[0186] The control module may be operable via a 24v / 0.1A DC power supply. However, it will be appreciated that other operating power supply arrangements may be used.

[0187] The control module may be configured to send a control signal to the valve. The control module may be configured to control the opening and closing of the valve. The control module may be configured to actuate the valve. The valve may be configured to control the flow of a fluid through the valve.

[0188] The valve may be an electronically controlled valve. The valve may be a solenoid valve.

[0189] The control module may be operable to actuate the valve.The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of the fluid through the valve.

[0190] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve. The control module may be operable to regulate the opening and closing of the valve. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve using variable pulses.

[0191] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at one or more predetermined intervals. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions coupled to the valve device. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions of the system to which the valve device is coupled. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions of a gas generating device, a compressor, etc.

[0192] The control module may be operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

[0193] The control module can use pulse width modulation (PWM) to operate the valve opening and closing.

[0194] The valve may be a discharge valve or a drain valve.

[0195] The control module may be configured to control operation of the valve.

[0196] The embodiment of the tenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect or ninth aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, the embodiment of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect or ninth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the tenth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0197] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for operating a valve, the method comprising: A valve device is provided, the valve device comprising: valve; and a control module configured to control operation of the valve; and The control module is operated to control the operation of the valve.

[0198] The control module may send a valve control signal to the valve.The control module may be operable to send a control signal to the valve.

[0199] The control module may be configured to send a control signal to the valve. The control module may be configured to control the opening and closing of the valve. The control module may be configured to actuate the valve. The valve may be configured to control the flow of a fluid through the valve.

[0200] The valve may be an electronically controlled valve. The valve may be a solenoid valve.

[0201] The control module may be operable to actuate the valve.The control module may be operable to control the flow rate of the fluid through the valve.

[0202] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve. The control module may be operable to regulate the opening and closing of the valve. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve using a variable pulse. The pulse period may then be fixed during a cycle.

[0203] The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at one or more predetermined intervals. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions coupled to the valve device. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions of the system to which the valve device is coupled. The control module may be operable to open and close the valve in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions of a gas generating device, a compressor, etc.

[0204] The control module may be operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

[0205] The control module can use pulse width modulation (PWM) to operate the valve opening and closing.

[0206] The valve may be a discharge valve or a drain valve.

[0207] The control module may be configured to control operation of the valve.

[0208] Embodiments of the eleventh aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect, ninth aspect or tenth aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, embodiments of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect, ninth aspect or tenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the eleventh aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0209] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a valve device, the valve device comprising: valve; a control module configured to control operation of the valve; and A housing in which the valve and the control module are located.

[0210] Embodiments of the twelfth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth or eleventh aspects of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, embodiments of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth or eleventh aspects of the present invention may include one or more features of the twelfth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0211] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gas generating device, the gas generating device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A valve device operable to discharge fluid removed from the gas by the filter unit, the valve device comprising: valve; and a control module configured to control operation of the valve; a gas separator configured to separate gas from the filter unit; and a separated gas outlet configured to receive separated gas from the gas separator; The air intake unit may be an air intake unit. The gas may be atmospheric air. The gas may be compressed gas. The gas may be compressed atmospheric air.

[0212] Embodiments of the thirteenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh or twelfth aspects of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, embodiments of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh or twelfth aspects of the present invention may include one or more features of the thirteenth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0213] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for generating gas, the method comprising the following steps: A gas generating device is provided, the gas generating device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A valve device operable to discharge fluid removed from the gas by the filter unit, the valve device comprising: valve; and a control module configured to control operation of the valve; a gas separator configured to separate gas from the filter unit; and a separated gas outlet configured to receive separated gas from the gas separator; providing gas to the gas inlet; filtering the gas from the gas inlet using a filter unit; operating a level control system to control a level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; separating the gas from the filtration unit using a gas separator; and providing the separated gas to a separated gas outlet; The air intake unit may be an air intake unit. The gas may be atmospheric air. The gas may be compressed gas. The gas may be compressed atmospheric air.

[0214] Embodiments of the fourteenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth or thirteenth aspects of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, embodiments of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth or thirteenth aspects of the present invention may include one or more features of the fourteenth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0215] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gas processing device, the gas processing device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A level control system operable to control the level of a fluid removed from a gas by a filtration unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; A gas outlet is configured to receive gas from the filter unit.

[0216] The air intake unit may be an air intake unit. The air intake unit may be an atmospheric air intake unit. The air intake unit may be a compressed gas intake unit.

[0217] The gas may be atmospheric air. The gas may be compressed gas.

[0218] The gas inlet may be configured to draw atmospheric air through the gas inlet and into the device. The gas inlet may include an air intake unit. The air intake unit may be operable to draw atmospheric air through the gas inlet and into the gas generating device. The air intake unit may be operable to draw gas through the gas inlet and into the gas generating device. The air intake unit may be operable to draw compressed gas through the gas inlet and into the gas generating device.

[0219] The gas inlet may be configured to allow cooled atmospheric air to enter the device. The gas inlet may be configured to allow compressed atmospheric air or compressed gas to enter the device. The gas inlet may be configured to allow cooled compressed atmospheric air or cooled compressed gas to enter the device. The compressed atmospheric air may be cooled compressed atmospheric air. The compressed gas may be cooled compressed gas.

[0220] The gas inlet may be configured to supply atmospheric air.The gas inlet may be configured to supply compressed atmospheric air.The gas inlet may be configured to supply cooled compressed atmospheric air.

[0221] The filter unit may be a fluid filter unit. The filter unit may be a steam filter unit. The filter unit may be a fluid and steam filter unit. The filter unit may be a fluid, steam and particle filter unit. The filter unit may be configured to remove fluid, steam or particles from the compressed gas from the gas inlet. The filter unit may be configured to remove moisture, coarse particles and fine particles from the compressed gas from the gas inlet.

[0222] The filter unit may include two or more filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic. The filter unit may include three filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic. The filter unit may include a plurality of filter components. Each filter component may include a predetermined filter characteristic.

[0223] The filter unit may include a first filter component. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid, steam and particles from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid in the form of liquid and / or steam from the compressed gas.

[0224] The filter unit may include a second filter component. The second filter component may be configured to filter coarse particles from the compressed gas. The coarse particles may be mist or steam.

[0225] The filter unit may include a third filter component. The third filter component may be configured to filter fine particles from the compressed gas. The fine particles may be any material or substance larger than 0.1 microns.

[0226] The liquid level control system may include two or more liquid level control devices. The liquid level control system may include two liquid level control devices. The liquid level control system may include two liquid level control devices.

[0227] The first level control device may be configured to operate with a first filter component of the filter unit.

[0228] The second level control device may be configured to operate with a second filter component of the filter unit.

[0229] The third liquid level control device may be configured to operate together with a third filter component of the filter unit.

[0230] The gas processing device may further include a gas separator. The gas separator may be configured to separate the compressed gas from the filter unit.

[0231] The gas separator may be configured to separate the gas into one or more components. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to separate substantially all gas components except one gas component in the compressed gas. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to selectively separate substantially all gas components except one gas component in the compressed gas.

[0232] In the case where the compressed gas is compressed atmospheric air, the gas separator may be configured to separate the compressed atmospheric air from the filter unit into at least one of its constituent gas components. That is, the gas separator of the gas generating device may be configured to separate substantially all gas components in the atmospheric air except one gas component. Thus, the gas separator of the gas generating device may be operable to selectively separate four of the five major gases present in the atmospheric air. Thus, the remaining gas present after the compressed atmospheric air passes through the gas separator of the gas generating device may be nitrogen, oxygen, argon or carbon dioxide.

[0233] The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a carbon molecular sieve filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a mole sieve filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a dryer membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a hollow fiber membrane filter. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a molecular sieve. The gas separator of the gas generating device may be a catalytic reactor. The gas separator may be a hydrocarbon molecular sieve. The gas separator may be a membrane. The gas separator may be a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) device. The gas separator may be a vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) device. The gas separator may be a catalytic reaction device. The gas separator may be a temperature swing adsorption (TSA) device. The gas separator may be an electrolysis device. The gas separator may be a fractionation device. The gas separator may be a chemical reaction device.

[0234] The apparatus may further comprise a compressor unit operable to draw gas through the air intake unit or the gas inlet or inlet filter and into the compressor unit.

[0235] The filter unit may be configured to filter compressed gas from the compressor unit.

[0236] The level control system may be operable to control the level of fluid removed from the compressed gas by the filter unit.

[0237] The device may also include a cooling unit. The cooling unit may be located between the compressor unit and the filter unit. The cooling unit may be a fin tube cooler, a cooling coil, etc. The purpose of the cooling unit is to cool the compressed gas from the compressor unit.

[0238] The filter unit may be configured to remove fluids, vapors or particles from the compressed gas from the compressor unit.The filter unit may be configured to remove moisture, coarse particles and fine particles from the compressed gas from the compressor unit.

[0239] The filter unit may include a first filter component. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid, steam and particles from the compressed gas. The first filter component may be configured to filter fluid in the form of liquid and / or steam from the compressed gas.

[0240] The filter unit may include a second filter component. The second filter component may be configured to filter coarse particles from the compressed gas. The coarse particles may be mist or steam.

[0241] The filter unit may include a third filter component. The third filter component may be configured to filter fine particles from the compressed gas. The fine particles may be any material or substance larger than 0.1 microns.

[0242] The apparatus may further include a gas storage tank configured to receive and store the separated compressed gas from the gas separator. The gas storage tank may be located between the gas separator and the separated gas outlet.

[0243] The second air filtration unit of the gas generating device may be configured to separate the compressed gas from the filtration unit into at least one of its constituent gas components.

[0244] The separated gas outlet may be connectable to a gas output circuit.

[0245] The gas generating device may include two or more compressor units. Each compressor unit may draw gas through an air intake unit or a gas inlet or an inlet filter of the compressor unit. Alternatively, the gas generating device may include two or more air intake units, and each compressor may operate with its own air intake unit. In this arrangement, each compressor unit includes its own filter unit, a liquid level control system, a gas separator, and a separated gas outlet. Each gas separator may be configured to separate gas components of different compositions from the gas. Each gas separator may be configured to separate gas components of the same composition from the gas.

[0246] The gas generation device may include two or more compressor units, each compressor unit being configured to operate with a filter unit, a liquid level control system, a gas separator and a separated gas outlet.

[0247] Embodiments of the fifteenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth or fourteenth aspects of the present invention or embodiments thereof. Similarly, embodiments of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth or fourteenth aspects of the present invention may include one or more features of the fifteenth aspect of the present invention or embodiments thereof.

[0248] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for treating gas, the method comprising the following steps: A gas processing device is provided, the gas processing device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A level control system operable to control the level of a fluid removed from a gas by a filtration unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas outlet configured to receive gas from the filter unit; providing a gas to a gas inlet; filtering the gas from the gas inlet using a filter unit; operating a level control system to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; and Gas is provided to the gas outlet.

[0249] The air intake unit may be an air intake unit.

[0250] The gas may be atmospheric air.

[0251] The gas processing device may further include a gas separator. The gas separator may be configured to separate the compressed gas from the filter unit.

[0252] The gas processing arrangement may further comprise a compressor unit.The compressor unit may be configured to draw gas into the compressor unit through the gas inlet.

[0253] Embodiments of the sixteenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth or fifteenth aspects of the present invention or embodiments thereof. Similarly, embodiments of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth or fifteenth aspects of the present invention may include one or more features of the sixteenth aspect of the present invention or embodiments thereof.

[0254] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gas processing device, the gas processing device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A valve device operable to discharge fluid removed from the gas by the filter unit, the valve device comprising: valve; and a control module configured to control operation of the valve; and A gas outlet is configured to receive gas from the filter unit.

[0255] The air intake unit may be an air intake unit. The gas may be atmospheric air. The gas may be compressed gas. The gas may be compressed atmospheric air.

[0256] The gas processing device may further include a gas separator. The gas separator may be configured to separate the compressed gas from the filter unit.

[0257] The gas processing arrangement may further comprise a compressor unit.The compressor unit may be configured to draw gas into the compressor unit through the gas inlet.

[0258] The embodiment of the seventeenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect, ninth aspect, tenth aspect, eleventh aspect, twelfth aspect, thirteenth aspect, fourteenth aspect, fifteenth invention or sixteenth aspect or their embodiments of the present invention. Similarly, the embodiment of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect, ninth aspect, tenth aspect, eleventh aspect, twelfth aspect, thirteenth aspect, fourteenth aspect, fifteenth invention or sixteenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the seventeenth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0259] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for processing gas, the method comprising the following steps: A gas processing device is provided, the gas processing device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A valve device operable to discharge fluid removed from the gas by the filter unit, the valve device comprising: valve; and a control module configured to control operation of the valve; and a gas outlet configured to receive gas from the filter unit; providing a gas to a gas inlet; filtering the gas from the gas inlet using a filter unit; operating a level control system to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; and Gas is provided to the gas outlet.

[0260] Embodiments of the eighteenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect, ninth aspect, tenth aspect, eleventh aspect, twelfth aspect, thirteenth aspect, fourteenth aspect, fifteenth invention, sixteenth aspect or seventeenth aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, embodiments of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect, ninth aspect, tenth aspect, eleventh aspect, twelfth aspect, thirteenth aspect, fourteenth aspect, fifteenth aspect, sixteenth aspect or seventeenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the eighteenth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments.

[0261] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gas generating device, the gas generating device comprising: a fluid inlet configured to allow fluid to enter the device; a first fluid separator configured to separate gas from fluid from the fluid inlet; a second fluid separator configured to separate fluid from gas from the first fluid separator; A level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the second fluid separator, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and a fluid outlet valve; and A gas outlet is configured to receive gas from the second fluid separator.

[0262] The fluid entering the fluid inlet may be water. The water may be deionized water. The water may be pressurized water. The water may be pressurized deionized water.

[0263] The fluid entering the fluid inlet may be gravity fed.The fluid entering the fluid inlet may be pumped.The fluid entering the fluid inlet may be from a pumped source.

[0264] The fluid inlet may be a water inlet. The fluid inlet may be configured to allow water to enter the device. The water may be deionized water.

[0265] The first fluid separator can be configured to separate wet gas from the fluid from the fluid inlet. The gas separated from the fluid by the first fluid separator can be wet gas. In other words, the gas separated from the fluid by the first fluid separator can contain water vapor, water vapor, water particles, etc.

[0266] The fluid inlet may be configured to allow water to enter the device, and the first fluid separator may be configured to separate hydrogen from the water from the fluid inlet. The hydrogen may be wet hydrogen. The hydrogen may contain water vapor, water vapor, water particles, etc.

[0267] The first fluid separator can be configured to separate the fluid from the fluid inlet into a liquid component and two gas components. The first fluid separator can be configured to separate the water from the fluid inlet into water, hydrogen and oxygen. The separated hydrogen can be wet hydrogen. The separated hydrogen can contain water vapor, water vapor, water particles, etc.

[0268] The first fluid separator may include an electrolytic cell. The first fluid separator may include a proton exchange membrane (PEM) cell. The first fluid separator may include a fuel cell. The first fluid separator may include an alkaline fuel cell (AFC). The first fluid separator may include a solid oxide fuel cell.

[0269] The first fluid separator may be a liquid separator.

[0270] The second fluid separator can be configured to separate liquid from the gas from the first fluid separator. The second fluid separator can be configured to separate water from the gas from the first fluid separator. The second fluid separator can be configured to separate water from the hydrogen from the first fluid separator. The second fluid separator can be configured to remove water, water vapor, water particles, etc. from the gas from the first fluid separator.

[0271] The second fluid separator may be a steam removal device, a water removal device, or a water vapor removal device.

[0272] The gas produced by the second fluid separator may have a lower water content than the gas supplied to the second fluid separator.

[0273] The gas outlet may be configured to receive hydrogen gas from the second fluid separator.

[0274] The gas generating device may further comprise a deionizing device. The deionizing device may be located between the fluid inlet and the first fluid separator. The deionizing device may be configured to deionize the fluid entering the device.

[0275] The gas generating device may further comprise a fluid pump. The fluid pump may be operable to pump fluid from the fluid inlet to the first fluid separator. The fluid pump may be located between the fluid inlet and the first fluid separator.

[0276] The gas generating device may further include one or more gas drying devices. The one or more gas drying devices may be located between the second fluid separator and the gas outlet. The one or more gas drying devices may be configured to dry or further dry the gas from the second fluid separator.

[0277] Embodiments of the nineteenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, seventeenth or eighteenth aspects of the present invention or embodiments thereof. Similarly, embodiments of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, seventeenth or eighteenth aspects of the present invention may include one or more features of the nineteenth aspect of the present invention or embodiments thereof.

[0278] According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for generating gas, the method comprising the following steps: A gas generating device is provided, the gas generating device comprising: a fluid inlet configured to allow fluid to enter the device; a first fluid separator configured to separate gas from fluid from the fluid inlet; a second fluid separator configured to separate fluid from gas from the first fluid separator; A level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the second fluid separator, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and a fluid outlet valve; and a gas outlet configured to receive gas from the second fluid separator, providing a fluid to the fluid inlet; separating the fluid from the fluid inlet using a first fluid separator; separating gas from the first fluid separator using a second fluid separator; operating a level control device to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the second fluid separator; and Gas from the second fluid separator is provided to the gas outlet.

[0279] The fluid entering the fluid inlet may be water. The water may be deionized water. The water may be pressurized water. The water may be pressurized deionized water.

[0280] The fluid entering the fluid inlet may be gravity fed.The fluid entering the fluid inlet may be pumped.The fluid entering the fluid inlet may be from a pumped source.

[0281] The fluid inlet may be a water inlet. The fluid inlet may be configured to allow water to enter the device. The water may be deionized water.

[0282] The first fluid separator can be configured to separate wet gas from the fluid from the fluid inlet. The gas separated from the fluid by the first fluid separator can be wet gas. In other words, the gas separated from the fluid by the first fluid separator can contain water vapor, water vapor, water particles, etc.

[0283] The fluid inlet may be configured to allow water to enter the device, and the first fluid separator may be configured to separate hydrogen from the water from the fluid inlet. The hydrogen may be wet hydrogen. The hydrogen may contain water vapor, water vapor, water particles, etc.

[0284] The first fluid separator can be configured to separate the fluid from the fluid inlet into a liquid component and two gas components. The first fluid separator can be configured to separate the water from the fluid inlet into water, hydrogen and oxygen. The separated hydrogen can be wet hydrogen. The separated hydrogen can contain water vapor, water vapor, water particles, etc.

[0285] The first fluid separator may include an electrolytic cell. The first fluid separator may include a proton exchange membrane (PEM) cell. The first fluid separator may include a fuel cell. The first fluid separator may include an alkaline fuel cell (AFC). The first fluid separator may include a solid oxide fuel cell.

[0286] The first fluid separator may be a liquid separator.

[0287] The second fluid separator can be configured to separate liquid from the gas from the first fluid separator. The second fluid separator can be configured to separate water from the gas from the first fluid separator. The second fluid separator can be configured to separate water from the hydrogen from the first fluid separator. The second fluid separator can be configured to remove water, water vapor, water particles, etc. from the gas from the first fluid separator.

[0288] The second fluid separator may be a steam removal device, a water removal device, or a water vapor removal device.

[0289] The gas produced by the second fluid separator may have a lower water content than the gas supplied to the second fluid separator.

[0290] The gas outlet may be configured to receive hydrogen gas from the second fluid separator.

[0291] The gas generating device may further comprise a deionizing device. The deionizing device may be located between the fluid inlet and the first fluid separator. The deionizing device may be configured to deionize the fluid entering the device.

[0292] The gas generating device may further comprise a fluid pump. The fluid pump may be operable to pump fluid from the fluid inlet to the first fluid separator. The fluid pump may be located between the fluid inlet and the first fluid separator.

[0293] The gas generating device may further include one or more gas drying devices. The one or more gas drying devices may be located between the second fluid separator and the gas outlet. The one or more gas drying devices may be configured to dry or further dry the gas from the second fluid separator.

[0294] The embodiment of the twentieth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect, ninth aspect, tenth aspect, eleventh aspect, twelfth aspect, thirteenth aspect, fourteenth aspect, fifteenth invention, sixteenth aspect, seventeenth aspect, eighteenth aspect or nineteenth aspect of the present invention or their embodiments. Similarly, the embodiment of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, fifth aspect, sixth aspect, seventh aspect, eighth aspect, ninth aspect, tenth aspect, eleventh aspect, twelfth aspect, thirteenth aspect, fourteenth aspect, fifteenth aspect, sixteenth aspect, seventeenth aspect, eighteenth aspect or nineteenth aspect of the present invention may include one or more features of the twentieth aspect of the present invention or its embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0295] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary gas generation apparatus; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary alternative gas generation apparatus; Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary alternative gas generating device; Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary alternative gas generating device; Figure 5 is a perspective side view of a liquid level control device according to the present invention; Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Exploded view of the liquid level control device; Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a plurality of liquid level control systems used with a filter unit of a gas generating device / gas processing device according to the present invention, which comprises Figure 5 Multiple liquid level control devices; Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a plurality of liquid level control systems for use with a filter unit of an alternative gas generating device / gas processing device according to the present invention, which comprises Figure 5 Multiple liquid level control devices; Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a gas generating device / gas processing device according to the present invention; Fig.10 is a schematic diagram of an alternative gas generation device / gas processing device according to the present invention; Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of another alternative gas generation device / gas processing device according to the present invention; Fig.12 is a schematic diagram of another alternative gas generation device / gas processing device according to the present invention; Fig.13 is a schematic diagram of a liquid level control system according to the present invention; Fig.14 is a schematic diagram of a valve device according to the present invention; Fig.15 is a schematic diagram of another alternative gas generation device / gas processing device according to the present invention; Fig.16 is a schematic diagram of another alternative gas generation device / gas processing device according to the present invention; Fig.17 is a schematic diagram of another alternative gas generation device / gas processing device according to the present invention; Fig.18 is a schematic diagram of another alternative gas generation device / gas processing device according to the present invention; Fig.19 is a schematic diagram of an alternative gas generation device; and Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram of a gas generating device according to the present invention.

[0296] DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Figures 1 to 4 is a schematic example of a known gas generating device. In the example shown herein, the device generates nitrogen from the atmosphere. The atmosphere can be supplied to the gas generating device, or the gas generating device can include one or more compressor units. However, other gas generating devices are known to generate other gases or gas mixtures and can include more than two compressors.

[0297] The operation of such gas generating devices is well known and a detailed description of the operation of these devices is not provided herein.

[0298] Figure 1 The gas generating device C comprises the following components: 1a Entrance partition 6a Particle filter 2a Filter - Water / Mist 7a pressure regulator 3a Solenoid drain valve (timing drain) 8a Flow Controller 4a Muffler 9a Exit partition 5a membrane filter Figure 2 The gas generating device D comprises the following components: 1b Compressor inlet filter 7b membrane filter 2b compressor 8b particle filter 3b Cooler 9b pressure regulator 4b Filter - Water / Mist 10b flow controller 5b Solenoid drain valve (timed drain) 11b Output bulkhead 6b silencer Figure 3 The gas generating device A comprises the following components: 1. Inlet filter 12. Pressure transducer 2. Compressor 13. Reheating coil 3. Compressor unloading valve 14. Back pressure reducing valve 4. Silencer 15. Nitrogen film 5. Safety pressure relief valve 16. Hydrocarbon tower filter 6. Check valve 17. Nitrogen storage tank 7. Fin tube cooler 18. Fine particle filter 8. Water separator 19.Output pressure regulator 9. Coarse particle filter 20.Output pressure gauge 10. Fine particle filter 21. Flow Transformer 11. Discharge valve 22. Manual ball valve Figure 4 The gas generating device B comprises the following components: 1'. Compressor inlet filter 13'. Pressure gauge (tank) 2'.Compressor 14'.Pressure switch 3'.Cooling coil 15'.Mass flow controller 4'.Double filter 16'.RAC filter 5'.N / C Solenoid Drain Valve 17'. Pressure regulator 6'. Check valve 18'. Nitrogen film 7'. Reheating coil 19'. Storage tank 8'.N / O Solenoid Unloading Valve 20'. Pressure gauge (nitrogen) 9'. Ventilation silencer 21'. Pressure gauge (air) 10'.Dryer membrane 22'.Outlet port (nitrogen) 11'. Storage tank 23'.Outlet port (air) 12'.Safety relief valve 24'.Outlet port (discharge) Figure 1 and Figure 2The main difference between the devices is that Figure 1 The device does not include a compressor unit and includes a single water / mist filter 2a, while Figure 2 The device comprises a compressor unit 2b, a cooler 3b and a two-stage water / mist filter 4b. Figure 1 With device C, compressed air can be supplied to the inlet partition 1a by an external device.

[0299] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The main difference between the devices is that Figure 3 The device A filters the compressed air from the two compressor units 2 through a triple filter system 8, 9 and 10, while Figure 4 The device B filters the compressed air coming from each compressor 2' via a double filtering system 4'.

[0300] As is known from such gas generating devices, the purity of the gas generated by these devices depends on the pressure, temperature and density of the compressed air being filtered. If the pressure of the compressed air supplied to the filter 5a, 7b, 15, 18' drops, the flow rate of the compressed air through the gas filter decreases, which affects the purity of the generated gas.

[0301] It is also known that it is necessary to drain the extracted water or moisture from the filters 2a, 4b, the triple filters 8, 9 and 10 and the dual filter 4'. This is achieved by the operation of the drain valves 3a, 5b, 11 and 5'. If the water is not drained from the filters 2a, 4b, 8, 9, 10 and 4', serious damage may occur to the components of the devices C, D, A, B, in particular the nitrogen membrane filters 5a, 7b, 15, 18', which are examples of gas separation devices. It is also possible that the gas generated by the device may contain unacceptable levels of water or water vapor, which may damage other devices to which the gas is supplied.

[0302] As mentioned above, the inventors of the present invention have recognized the disadvantages of such known gas generating devices C, D, A, B.

[0303] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , illustrating a liquid level control device 30. As further described below, the liquid level control device 30 can be used as a part of a liquid level control system 30' (fluid control device 30 and fluid outlet valve 40) of a filter unit 300, 300' of a gas generating device / gas processing device C', D', A', B' of the present invention.

[0304] The level control device 30 includes a body portion 32 having a fluid inlet 32a and a fluid outlet 32b, a first sensor module 34, a second sensor module 36, and a control module 38. The device 30 is configured to operate with a fluid outlet valve 40, as further described below. The fluid outlet valve 40 is configured to control the flow of water out of the body portion 32 of the device 30.

[0305] In use, the body portion 32 is arranged to receive water or water vapour from the filter unit 300, 300' of the gas generating / processing device C', D', A', B' at the fluid inlet 32a. With the fluid outlet valve 40 closed, the body portion 32 may be filled with water or condensed water.

[0306] The fluid inlet 32a is located on the upper portion 32c of the body portion 32, and the fluid outlet 32b is located on the lower portion 32d of the body portion 32. The fluid outlet valve 40 is fluidly connected to the fluid outlet 32b of the body portion 32.

[0307] Typically, the volume of the main body 32 can be between 4ml and 12ml. In the embodiment illustrated and described herein, the volume of the main body 32 is 8ml. However, it should be understood that other sizes and volumes are also possible. Depending on the operating parameters of the system, the volume of the main body 32 may reach 1l.

[0308] The body portion 32 includes a longitudinal axis 32h and a transverse axis 32i. The longitudinal axis 32h extends between the upper portion 32c and the lower portion 32d of the body portion 32. The transverse axis 32i extends between the left side 32j and the right side 32k of the body portion 32.

[0309] The first sensor module 34 is configured to sense fluid at a first location 34' within the body portion 32, and the second sensor module 36 is configured to sense fluid at a second location 36' within the body portion 32. Figure 3 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the first sensor module 34 and the second sensor module 36 are located on the rear side 32p of the body portion 32. The first sensor module 34 is located toward the lower portion 32d of the body portion 32, and the second sensor module 36 is located toward the upper portion 32c of the body portion 32.

[0310] In the embodiment shown and described herein, the sensor modules 34, 36 are optical sensors. Each sensor module 34, 36 includes a light emitter 34a, 36a which may be a light emitting diode (LED), a reflective prism 34c, 36c and a light detector 34b, 36b which may be a photodiode.

[0311] The light emitting and detecting portions or each sensor module 34, 36 protrude into the body portion 32 so that they can contact and be covered by fluid in the body portion during use.

[0312] Each sensor module 34, 36 is operable to output an electrical signal that is a function of the amount of light detected at the light detector 34b, 36b.

[0313] The output signals from the sensor modules 34 , 36 may be referred to as level signals because they indicate the presence of fluid (water) at the location of the sensors 34 , 36 .

[0314] In the embodiment shown and described herein, the light emitters 34a, 36a and light detectors 34b, 36b of each sensor module 34, 36 emit and detect light between 780nm and 1 mm. However, it should be understood that other wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum are possible.

[0315] As further described below, the control module 38 is operable to monitor the output of the sensor modules 34, 36 and control the fluid outlet valve 40. The control module 38 does this by receiving a fluid level signal from each sensor module 34, 36 and sending a fluid outlet valve control signal, as appropriate, to the fluid outlet valve 40. The fluid outlet valve control signal affects the operation of the fluid outlet valve 40, which allows water to be discharged from the main body 32 of the level control device 30.

[0316] The control module 38 is operable to control the following operating parameters of the fluid outlet valve 40: the amount of valve opening; the flow rate of water through the valve, the length of time the valve is open, the frequency of valve opening and closing, and the like.

[0317] In the embodiment shown and described herein, the fluid outlet valve 40 is a solenoid valve, and the control module 38 is operable to open and close the valve 40 with a period between 20ms and 50ms each time, that is, the control module 38 is operable to open and close the valve with a variable pulse. The variable pulse can be determined by the time it takes the second sensor 36 to detect the presence and absence of fluid. The pulse period can then be fixed during the cycle. The pulse period can vary depending on the amount of fluid present / condensed. The control module 38 can use pulse width modulation (PWM) to operate the opening and closing of the valve.

[0318] like Figure 5 As shown, the control module 38 is attached to the main body portion 32. However, it should be understood that the control module 38 can have an alternate location and / or be separate from the main body portion 32.

[0319] In the embodiment shown and described herein, the control module 38 includes a microcontroller (MC) on a printed circuit board (PCB) that is programmed to control the operation of the sensor modules 34, 36 and the fluid outlet valve 40. The MC may include a power module, an input / output (I / O) module, a processor module, and a programming module. The control module 38 may be operable by a 24v / 0.1A DC power supply. It should be understood that the type of control module with alternative control components and / or systems may be used.

[0320] The control module 38 may also be programmed to output one or more alarm signals that may indicate an unexpected or undesirable operating condition of the device 30. The one or more alarm signals may be audible, visual, electronic, etc. The alarm signal may be a signal indicating that fluid is still present in the body portion 32 when it should not be. That is, fluid remains in the body portion 32 after the drain operation of the valve 40. Two or more control modules 38 may be coupled so that the operation of each level control device 30 may be controlled. In this arrangement, if one control module 38 receives a signal indicating an unexpected or undesirable operating condition, the operation of the gas generating device may be stopped until the problem is resolved.

[0321] The control module 38 also includes an apparatus status indicator, which in the embodiment shown and described herein is an LED 38a. The apparatus status indicator 38a can be configured to indicate the state or operating condition of the apparatus 30, and the apparatus status indicator 38a can be configured to output one or more visual signals and / or audible signals.

[0322] In the embodiment shown and described herein, the fluid outlet valve 40 is an electronically controlled valve, such as a solenoid valve. As described above, the fluid outlet valve 40 is controlled by the control module 38.

[0323] In the embodiment shown and described herein, the fluid outlet valve 40 is a separate component of the device 30. However, it should be understood that it may be formed integrally with the body portion 32, for example.

[0324] Now refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figures 7 to 12 The operation of the liquid level control device 30 will be described.

[0325] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A plurality of liquid level control devices 30 are shown for use with filter units 300, 300' of gas generating / processing devices A', B'. Figure 7 In the arrangement of , each device 30 is connected to a filter element 18 , 19 and 110 and has a corresponding fluid outlet valve 40 . Figure 7The filter components of form part of a triple filter unit having a water separator 18 (an example of a first filter component), a coarse particle filter 19 (an example of a second filter component) and a fine particle filter 110 (an example of a third filter component). The filter unit 300 of the gas generating device / gas processing device A' comprises the filter components 18, 19, 110. Figure 8 In the arrangement of , each device 30 is connected to a filter element 14 ′ and has a corresponding fluid outlet valve 40 . Figure 6 The filter element 14 ′ forms part of a double filter unit having two filter elements.

[0326] The level control device 30 may be completely autonomous or may be integrated with the control system of the gas generating device / gas processing device. In addition, each level control device 30 may be connected in series ("daisy-chained") to operate up to five or more individual units. Furthermore, if the level control device 30 is integrated into the control system of the gas generating device, only one control module 38 is required to operate the fluid outlet valve 40.

[0327] In the embodiments shown and described herein, the gas generation devices / gas processing devices C', D', A', B', G, H, I, J are described as using atmospheric air as the input gas. However, it should be understood that the gas generation devices / gas processing devices C', D', A', B', G, H, I, J can use other types of gases.

[0328] Reference Fig. 9 , the operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device C' will now be described.

[0329] Prior to supplying compressed atmospheric air to the inlet diaphragm (example of an air inlet or gas inlet) 1a', the level control device 30 is powered on and the control module 38 opens the fluid outlet valve 40 to release any pressure upstream thereof to the atmosphere. This may be done for approximately 20 seconds. Once completed, compressed atmospheric air may be supplied to the inlet diaphragm 1a' to flush any water out of the device C'. The fluid outlet valve 40 is then closed and operation of the control module 38 is initiated.

[0330] The compressed air from the inlet partition 1a' then enters a water / mist filter (an example of a filter unit) 2a'.

[0331] The water / mist filter 2a' is configured to remove water and / or water vapor from the compressed atmospheric air. This type of filter may be referred to as an "air dryer".

[0332] As compressed atmospheric air passes through the filter 2a', filtered water or condensed water vapor is gravity fed into the fluid inlet 32a of the main body 32 of the level control device 30.

[0333] The output from the filter 2a' is compressed atmospheric air with a reduced water or water vapour content. This compressed atmospheric air then enters a nitrogen membrane / membrane filter 5a' (an example of a gas separator).

[0334] The nitrogen membrane 5a' (an example of a gas separation device or gas separator) is configured to separate most of the atmospheric gas components except nitrogen from the compressed atmospheric air. It should be understood that other types of gas separators of the gas generating device C' may be carbon molecular sieve filters or mole sieve filters, catalytic reactors, molecular sieves, etc. The gas separator may be a hydrocarbon molecular sieve.

[0335] The nitrogen from the nitrogen membrane filter 5a' may eventually pass to the outlet partition 9a' (an example of a separation gas outlet or a gas outlet).

[0336] like Fig. 9 As shown, the gas generation device / gas processing device C' includes many other components for operating the system. These components are well known in the operation of gas generation devices / gas processing devices, and no further explanation of their operation is provided herein. Fig. 9 The gas generation device / gas processing device C' comprises the following components: 1a' Entrance bulkhead 6a' Particle filter 2a' Filter - Water / Mist 7a' Pressure regulator 4a' silencer 8a' Flow Controller 5a'Membrane filter 9a' Exit bulkhead Continued operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device C′ causes water to accumulate in the liquid level control device 30 .

[0337] Control module 38 is programmed to expect the level signal output from first sensor module 34 to change between a first signal indicating no water at sensor 34 to a second signal indicating water at sensor 34 after device C′ begins operation because water needs to accumulate in body portion 32 .

[0338] As the gas generating device / gas processing device C' continues to operate, water rises in the main body portion 32 until the water reaches the second sensor module 36. At this time, the control module 38 receives a liquid level signal from the second sensor 36, which indicates that the water in the main body portion has reached the second sensor module 36.

[0339] The control module 38 then sends a fluid outlet valve control signal to the fluid outlet valve 40. The fluid outlet valve control signal actuates the fluid outlet valve 40. The signal sent by the control module 38 to the fluid outlet valve 40 enables the valve 40 to be opened and closed. The control module 38 may be operable to open and close the valve 40 using a variable pulse. The variable pulse may be determined by the time it takes the second sensor 36 to detect the presence and absence of fluid. The pulse period may then be fixed during the cycle. The pulse period may vary depending on the amount of fluid present / condensed.

[0340] The control module 38 may be operable to pulse open and close the valve 40 at one or more predetermined intervals depending on one or more system conditions of the gas generating device C'.

[0341] The control module 38 actuates the fluid outlet valve 40 in this manner until the liquid level in the main body portion 32 decreases to a point where the first sensor module 34 no longer detects water. At this point, the control module 38 stops actuating the fluid outlet valve 40, and as the device C' continues to operate, the fluid in the main body portion 32 begins to rise again. This operating cycle is repeated until the gas generating device C' is shut down.

[0342] Therefore, the liquid level control device 30 is configured to automatically operate according to the liquid level signals received from the first sensor module 34 and the second sensor module 36 , and control the water level in the main body portion 32 .

[0343] Further details of the operation of the liquid level control device 30 are as follows: Power on: (i) The fluid outlet valve 40 is fully opened for 20 seconds. This removes pressure from the system.

[0344] a. In order to unload the system when shutting down, the level control device 30 is first turned off and then turned on again (so that the valve 40 opens and vents). After 20 seconds, the automatic discharge pipe of the level control device 30 can be turned off.

[0345] Standby mode: (i) Standby means that no water is detected by the second sensor 36. The blue LED is on.

[0346] a. In this mode, the first sensor 34 can detect water or not detect water.

[0347] Exhaust mode: (i) This mode is enabled when the first sensor 34 and the second sensor 36 detect water for more than 60 seconds. The LED color changes to green.

[0348] a. The 60-second wait time prevents false exhaust operations caused by small water droplets temporarily triggering the top sensor.

[0349] (ii) Pulse valve 40 briefly, wait 3 seconds and repeat the process.

[0350] a. Opening valve 40 causes disturbance to the system, which is eliminated after 3 seconds.

[0351] b. The amount of time the valve 40 is pulsed increases linearly from 1 millisecond in 1 millisecond intervals.

[0352] c. Once the second sensor 36 no longer detects water, the pulse time is maintained until the first sensor 34 also detects no water.

[0353] d. At this time, the liquid level control device 30 enters the standby mode.

[0354] e. If after 50 venting cycles, the first sensor 34 still detects water, the venting time of the valve 40 is again increased linearly by 1 millisecond for another 30 venting cycles.

[0355] f. If water is no longer detected at the first sensor 34, the liquid level control device 30 immediately enters the standby mode. Otherwise, it will enter the error mode.

[0356] Error Mode (i) This mode changes the LED color to red. In this mode, the liquid level control device 30 does not perform any operation.

[0357] a. To exit the error mode, button 38b may be pressed or the level control device 30 may be power cycled.

[0358] Press the button: (i) When the button 38b is pressed, in addition to clearing any errors, the level control device 30 also vents for a period of 100 milliseconds every 3 seconds.

[0359] (ii) If button 38b is pressed for more than 10 seconds, a fault is generated. This is for testing purposes.

[0360] Daisy Chain: (i) Each liquid level control device 30 has an alarm input port and an alarm output port.

[0361] a. If all devices 30 are operating normally, this line is 1V.

[0362] b. If one device 30 in the chain is in fault mode (except the last one), the line is at 2V.

[0363] c. If 2 or more devices 30 (or the last device 30) are in fault mode, this line is 3V.

[0364] d. Any number of devices 30 may be daisy-chained.

[0365] As described above, control module 38 may be operable to pulse open and close valve 40 at one or more predetermined intervals. Control module 38 may be operable to pulse open and close valve 40 at intervals based on one or more system conditions of gas generating device C'.

[0366] Draining water from the level control device 30 in this manner does not significantly reduce the pressure in the gas generating device / gas processing device C'. This is because the device 30 only operates to reduce the volume of water held in the main body portion 32 during drainage, rather than completely emptying the main body portion 32. Maintaining a volume of water between the fluid outlet valve 40 and the location of the first sensor module 34 in the main body portion 32 ensures that the only pressure drop introduced into the gas generating device C' during drainage is the volume added to the entire gas generating device / gas processing device C' due to the drainage of water between the locations of the second sensor module 36 and the first sensor module 34 in the main body portion 32. This volume change represents a very small portion of the total volume of the gas generating device / gas processing device C'. In addition, the rapid opening and closing of the fluid outlet valve 40 to drain water from the main body portion 32 means that there is no effective step change increase in volume of the device C', and the pressure change in the device C' is negligible.

[0367] If the fluid outlet valve 40 were to simply open to completely drain the water from the main body portion 32, the pressure in the gas generating device / gas processing device C' would drop significantly because firstly there would be an increase in effective volume by removing all the water from the main body portion 32, and secondly, with all the water removed from the main body portion 32, there would be no fluid buffer or fluid barrier to prevent compressed air from escaping the device C' through the fluid outlet valve 40. This would result in a significant drop in the pressure of the device C'.

[0368] If device C' is shut down, control module 38 actuates fluid outlet valve 40 for approximately 5 seconds to relieve any pressure downstream thereof.

[0369] Reference Fig.10 , the operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device D' of the present invention will now be described.

[0370] Before starting the compressor 2b' to generate gas, the level control device 30 is turned on and the control module 38 opens the fluid outlet valve 40 to release any pressure upstream of the compressor 2b' to the atmosphere. This can take about 20 seconds. Once completed, the compressor 2b' is turned on to flush any water out of the device D'. The fluid outlet valve 40 is then closed and the operation of the control module 38 begins.

[0371] Compressed air from the compressor inlet filter 1b' (an example of an air inlet or gas inlet) is compressed by the compressor 2b' and then cooled at the cooler 3b' before entering the water / mist filter 4b' (an example of a filter unit).

[0372] The water / mist filter 4b' is configured to remove water and / or water vapor from the compressed atmospheric air. This type of filter may be referred to as an "air dryer".

[0373] As compressed atmospheric air passes through each filter 4b', filtered water or condensed water vapor is gravity fed into the fluid inlet 32a of the main body portion 32 of each level control device 30.

[0374] The output from the filter 4b' is compressed atmospheric air with a reduced water or water vapour content. This compressed atmospheric air then enters a nitrogen membrane / membrane filter 7b' (an example of a gas separator).

[0375] The nitrogen membrane 7b' (an example of a gas separation device) is configured to separate most atmospheric gas components except nitrogen from the compressed atmospheric air. It should be understood that other types of gas separators of the gas generation device / gas treatment device D' may be carbon molecular sieve filters or mole sieve filters, catalytic reactors, molecular sieves, etc.

[0376] The nitrogen gas from the nitrogen membrane filter 7b' may eventually pass to the outlet partition 11b' (an example of a separation gas outlet or a gas outlet).

[0377] like Fig.10 As shown, the gas generation device / gas processing device D' includes many other components for operating the system. These components are well known in the operation of gas generation devices / gas processing devices, and no further explanation of their operation is provided herein. Fig.10 The gas generation device / gas processing device D' comprises the following components: 1b' Compressor inlet filter 7b' Membrane filter 2b' compressor 8b' Particle filter 3b' Cooler 9b' Pressure regulator 4b' Filter - Water / Mist 10b' Flow Controller 6b' silencer 11b' output partition The operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device D' and each liquid level control device 30 is substantially the same as that of the gas generating device / gas processing device C'.

[0378] Likewise, draining water from each level control device 30 in the manner described above does not significantly reduce the pressure in the gas generating device / gas processing device D'.

[0379] Reference Fig.11 , the operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device A' of the present invention will now be described.

[0380] Prior to starting the compressor 12 to generate gas, the level control device 30 is turned on and the control module 38 opens the fluid outlet valve 40 to release any pressure upstream of the compressor 12 to the atmosphere. This can take about 20 seconds. Once completed, the compressor 12 is turned on to flush any water out of the device A'. The fluid outlet valve 40 is then closed and the operation of the control module 38 is started.

[0381] Compressed air from the inlet filter 11 (an example of an air intake unit or air inlet or gas inlet) is compressed by the compressor 12 and then cooled at the fin tube cooler 17 before entering the triple filter unit 18 , 19 and 110 (an example of a filter unit).

[0382] The triple filter unit 18, 19 and 110 is configured to remove water and / or water vapor from the compressed atmospheric air. This type of filter may be referred to as an "air dryer".

[0383] As the compressed atmospheric air passes through each filter 18 , 19 and 110 , filtered water or condensed water vapor is supplied to the fluid inlet 32 ​​a of the main body portion 32 of each level control device 30 by gravity.

[0384] The output from the triple filtration unit 18, 19, 110 is compressed atmospheric air with a reduced water or water vapor content. This compressed atmospheric air is then heated by a reheat coil 113 before entering a nitrogen membrane 115 (an example of a gas separator).

[0385] The nitrogen membrane 115 (an example of a gas separation device) is configured to separate most atmospheric gas components except nitrogen from the compressed atmospheric air. It should be understood that other types of gas separators of the gas generation device / gas treatment device A' can be carbon molecular sieve filters or mole sieve filters, catalytic reactors, molecular sieves, etc.

[0386] The nitrogen membrane filter 115 may be connected to a gas tank 117 configured to receive and store separated compressed nitrogen therein. However, it should be understood that a gas tank is not required, and instead, nitrogen may be directly supplied to the output 121a (an example of a separated gas outlet or gas outlet).

[0387] like Fig.11 As shown, the gas generation device / gas processing device A' includes many other components for operating the system. These components are well known in the operation of gas generation devices / gas processing devices, and no further explanation of their operation is provided herein. Fig.11 The gas generation device / gas processing device A' comprises the following components: 11. Inlet filter 113. Reheating coil 12. Compressor 114. Back pressure relief valve 14.Silencer 115. Nitrogen film 15. Safety relief valve 116. Hydrogen tower filter 16. Check valve 117.Nitrogen storage tank 17. Fin tube cooler 118. Fine particle filter 18. Water separator 119.Output pressure regulator 19. Coarse particle filter 120.Output pressure gauge 110. Fine particle filter 121.Flow Transformer 112.Pressure transducer 121a. Output / Separation Gas Outlet 122. Manual ball valve The operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device A' and each liquid level control device 30 is substantially the same as the operation of the gas generating devices / gas processing devices C' and D'.

[0388] Likewise, draining water from each level control device 30 in the manner described above does not significantly reduce the pressure in the gas generating / processing device A'.

[0389] If device A' is shut down, control module 38 actuates fluid outlet valve 40 for approximately 5 seconds to relieve any pressure downstream of compressor 12. This ensures that when compressor 12 is next turned on, there is no pressure in device A'.

[0390] Reference Fig.12 , the operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device B' of the present invention will now be described.

[0391] Prior to starting the compressor 12' to produce gas, the level control device 30 is turned on and the control module 38 opens the fluid outlet valve 40 to release any pressure upstream of the compressor 12 to the atmosphere. This can take about 20 seconds. Once completed, the compressor 12' is turned on to flush any water out of the device B'. The fluid outlet valve 40 is then closed and the control module 38 runs an initial calibration procedure on each sensor module 34, 36.

[0392] Compressed air from the compressor inlet filter 11 ' (an example of an air intake unit, air inlet or gas inlet) is compressed by each compressor 12' and then cooled at a cooling coil 13' before entering a dual filter 14' (an example of a filter unit).

[0393] The dual filter unit 14' is configured to remove water and / or water vapor from the compressed atmospheric air. Likewise, this type of filter may be referred to as an "air dryer".

[0394] As compressed atmospheric air passes through each filter 14 ′, filtered water or condensed water vapor is supplied by gravity into the fluid inlet 32 ​​a of the main body portion 32 of each level control device 30 .

[0395] The output from each dual filtration unit 14' is compressed atmospheric air with reduced water or water vapor content. This compressed atmospheric air is then heated and combined by the reheat coil 17' before entering the dryer membrane 110' and being stored in the tank 111'. This compressed air can be output at the outlet port 123'.

[0396] Compressed air also enters nitrogen membrane 118' (an example of a gas separator and gas separation device). Nitrogen membrane 118' is configured to separate atmospheric gas components of most components other than nitrogen from compressed atmospheric air. It should be understood that other types of gas separators of gas generation device / gas treatment device B' can be carbon molecular sieve filters or mole sieve filters, catalytic reactors, molecular sieves, etc.

[0397] The nitrogen membrane filter 118' may be connected to a gas storage tank 119' configured to receive and store separated compressed nitrogen therein. However, it should be understood that a gas storage tank is not required and, instead, the nitrogen may be directly supplied to the output 122' (an example of a separated gas outlet).

[0398] like Fig.12 As shown, the gas generation device / gas processing device B' includes many other components for operating the system. These components are well known in the operation of gas generation devices / gas processing devices, and no further explanation of their operation is provided herein. Fig.12 The gas generation device / gas processing device B' comprises the following components: 11'. Compressor inlet filter 116'.RAC filter 12'.Compressor 117'. Pressure regulator 13'.Cooling coil 118'. Nitrogen film 14'.Double filter 119'.Storage tank 16'. Check valve 120'. Pressure gauge (nitrogen) 17'. Reheating coil 121'. Pressure gauge (air) 110'.Dryer membrane 122'.Outlet port (nitrogen) 111'. Storage tank 123'.Outlet port (air) 112'.Safety relief valve 124'.Outlet port (discharge) 113'. Pressure gauge (tank) 114'.Pressure switch 115'.Mass Flow Controller The operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device B' and each liquid level control device 30 is substantially the same as that of the gas generating device / gas processing device A'.

[0399] Likewise, draining water from each level control device 30 in the manner described above does not significantly reduce the pressure in the gas generating / processing device B'.

[0400] The provision of the liquid level control device 30 according to the invention ensures that the gas produced by the gas generating device / gas processing device C', D', A', B' is always of high purity. This is because the liquid level control device 30 allows the pressure in the device C', D', A', B' to be effectively maintained during the drainage of water from the filter units 2a', 4b', 14' and 18, 19, 110. This ensures that there is no pressure drop or reduction in flow rate in the compressed air when it passes through the nitrogen membranes 5a', 7b', 115, 118'.

[0401] In addition, the liquid level control device 30 measures the water level in the main body portion 32 and automatically discharges the water in the main body portion 32. This is achieved by the control module 38 receiving liquid level signals from each of the first fluid sensor module 34 and the second fluid sensor module 36 and operating the fluid outlet 40 according to these signals. In some known gas generating devices, the discharge valve is set to open and close at a predetermined cycle. This is not based on any knowledge of the water level in the filter unit. Frequent opening and closing of the discharge valve generally reduces the expected operating life of the component, while infrequent opening and closing of the discharge valve may cause water to accumulate in the filter unit and be transferred to the nitrogen membrane or to an external facility that supplies gas thereto. This may cause failure of the gas generating device and the external facilities connected thereto. In addition, opening the discharge valve for too long may significantly reduce the pressure in the device because a large amount of compressed air may escape.

[0402] In addition, providing the liquid level control device 30 as described above means that the number of components required in the gas generating device can be reduced. For example, since the liquid level control device 30 is operable to control the fluid outlet valve 40, it is possible to Figure 3 The gas generating device A removes the compressor unloading valve 3 and the muffler 4, and from Figure 4 The gas generating device B removes the compressor unloading valve 8 and the muffler 9. This is because the liquid level control device 30 and the fluid outlet valve 40 can perform the function of releasing the pressure in the device before the compressor is started.

[0403] In addition, by using the level control device 30 to monitor the water level in the filter, fault detection can be performed. That is, if the control module 38 of each device 30 receives an unexpected signal (or no signal), an alarm can be triggered indicating that a fault exists. This early detection of a fault reduces the possibility of serious damage to the gas generating device or external facilities because the gas generating device can be shut down very quickly when the alarm is triggered.

[0404] Furthermore, the level control device 30 of the present invention essentially adapts its operation to the atmospheric humidity conditions of the environment in which it operates. That is, the control and operation of the fluid outlet valve 40 is determined by the atmospheric humidity conditions in which the level control device 30 operates. This is beneficial relative to systems that simply use timed operation of valve actuation control, as such systems are not suitable for all environmental conditions. The timed release of moisture accumulation does not take into account the actual accumulation of moisture in the system, which can lead to the problems highlighted above, such as the impact on the purity of the separated gas and damage to filters and other attached facilities by moisture or water.

[0405] refer to Fig.13, illustrates a liquid level control system E. The liquid level control system E of the present invention comprises a liquid level control device 30 according to the present invention and a housing 30a. As shown in the figure, the liquid level control device 30 is accommodated in the housing 30a.

[0406] The liquid level control system E may further include a fluid outlet valve 40. The fluid outlet valve 40 may also be accommodated in the housing 30a.

[0407] The liquid level control system E can be used together with the gas generation device / gas processing device C', D', A', B'. The liquid level control system E can be a separate component.

[0408] The operation of the liquid level control device 30 and the outlet valve 40 is the same as that of the above reference Figures 5 to 12 That is, the control module 38 operates according to the signals received from the first sensor module 34 and the second sensor module 36 , and controls the operation of the fluid outlet valve 40 to discharge the fluid from the main body portion 32 of the liquid level control device 30 .

[0409] refer to Fig.14 , a valve device F is illustrated. The valve device F includes a valve 52 and a control module 54 . The control module 54 is configured to control the operation of the valve 52 .

[0410] The valve device F has a fluid inlet 52a and a fluid outlet 52b. The valve 52 controls the fluid to flow out of the fluid outlet 52b.

[0411] The valve device F can be used in the liquid level control device of the present invention. The valve can be used in the gas generation device / gas processing device of the present invention. The valve device can be used in the fluid discharge system of the gas generation device / gas processing device. The valve device can be used in the fluid discharge system of the compressor.

[0412] The valve arrangement F may be automatically operable. The control module may be configured to monitor one or more control signals and control the operation of the fluid outlet valve. The control module 54 may be configured to operate in accordance with one or more control signals.

[0413] The valve device F may be operable to control the liquid level in the gas generating device / gas processing device. The valve device F may be operable to control the liquid level in the fluid discharge system of the gas generating device / gas processing device. The valve device F may be operable to control the liquid level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the gas generating device / gas processing device. The valve device F may be operable to control the liquid level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the compressed air system.

[0414] The valve device F may be operable to control the water level in the gas generating device / gas processing device. The valve device F may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the gas generating device / gas processing device. The valve device F may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the gas generating device / gas processing device. The valve device F may be operable to control the water level in the fluid discharge system of the dehumidification system of the compressed air system.

[0415] As shown, the valve 52 includes a body portion 56. The control module 54 may be mounted on or in the body portion 56.

[0416] The valve device F further includes a housing 58 . The valve device F is located in the housing 58 .

[0417] The control module 54 may operate in the same manner as the control module 38 described above.

[0418] The control module 54 is operable to send a valve control signal to the valve 52 .

[0419] The control module 54 includes a microcontroller (MC). The MC may include a power module, an input / output (I / O) module, a processor module, and a programming module. The control module 54 may include one or more programmable memory devices. The control module 54 may include one or more memory storage devices. The control module 54 may include one or more computing devices. The control module 54 may be operable to run one or more computer programs.

[0420] The control module 54 is operable via a 24v / 0.1A DC power supply. However, it should be appreciated that other operating power settings may be used.

[0421] The control module 54 is configured to send a control signal to the valve 52. Therefore, the control module 54 is configured to control the opening and closing of the valve 52. The control module 54 may be configured to actuate the valve 52 and control the flow of fluid through the valve 52, the flow rate of the fluid.

[0422] In the embodiment shown and described herein, valve 52 is an electronically controlled valve, such as a solenoid valve.

[0423] The control module 54 is operable to regulate the opening and closing of the valve 52. The control module 54 may be operable to open and close the valve using variable pulses.

[0424] The control module 54 may be operable to open and close the valve 52 in a pulsed manner. The control module 54 may be operable to open and close the valve 52 in a pulsed manner at one or more predetermined intervals. The control module 54 may be operable to open and close the valve 52 in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions coupled to the valve device F. The control module 54 may be operable to open and close the valve 52 in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions of the system to which the valve device F is connected. The control module 54 may be operable to open and close the valve 52 in a pulsed manner at intervals according to one or more system conditions of a gas generating device, a compressor, etc.

[0425] The control module 54 is operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve 52 is opened and closed. The control module 54 may operate the opening and closing of the valve 52 using pulse width modulation (PWM).

[0426] Valve 52 may be a drain valve or a vent valve.

[0427] The control module 54 may be configured to control the operation of the valve 52 .

[0428] Reference Fig.15 , illustrates a gas generating device / gas processing device G according to the present invention.

[0429] The gas generating device / gas processing device G is substantially the same as the gas generating device / gas processing device C', the only difference being that the valve device F replaces the liquid level control system 30'. All other components and their operation are the same as described above. For consistency, the same reference numerals are used between the same components.

[0430] The operation of the gas generating / processing device G is substantially the same as that of the gas generating / processing device C', the only difference being that the discharge of fluid from the filter 2a' is performed by the valve device F. As described above, the control module 54 operates the actuation of the valve 52 to allow the discharge of fluid from the filter 2a'.

[0431] Reference Fig.16 , illustrates a gas generating device / gas processing device H according to the present invention.

[0432] The gas generating device / gas processing device H is substantially the same as the gas generating device / gas processing device D', the only difference being that the valve device F replaces the liquid level control system 30'. All other components and their operation are the same as described above. For consistency, the same reference numerals are used between the same components.

[0433] Likewise, the operation of the gas generating / processing device H is substantially the same as that of the gas generating / processing device D', the only difference being that the discharge of fluid from the filter 4b' is performed by the valve device F. Likewise, as described above, the control module 54 operates the actuation of the valve 52 to allow the discharge of fluid from the filter 4b'.

[0434] Reference Fig.17 , illustrates a gas generating device / gas processing device I according to the present invention.

[0435] The gas generating device / gas processing device I is substantially the same as the gas generating device / gas processing device A', the only difference being that the valve device F replaces the liquid level control system 30'. All other components and their operation are the same as described above. For consistency, the same reference numerals are used between the same components.

[0436] Likewise, the operation of the gas generating device / gas processing device I is substantially the same as the gas generating device / gas processing device A', the only difference being that the discharge of fluid from the filter 18, 19, 110 is performed by the valve device F. Likewise, as described above, the control module 54 operates the actuation of the valve 52 to allow the fluid to be discharged from the filter 18, 19, 110.

[0437] Reference Fig.18 , illustrates a gas generating device / gas processing device J according to the present invention.

[0438] The gas generating device / gas processing device J is substantially the same as the gas generating device / gas processing device B', the only difference being that the valve device F replaces the liquid level control system 30'. All other components and their operation are the same as described above. For consistency, the same reference numerals are used between the same components.

[0439] Likewise, the operation of gas generating device / gas processing device J is substantially the same as gas generating device / gas processing device / gas processing device B', with the only difference being that the discharge of fluid from the filter 14' is performed through the valve device F. Likewise, as described above, the control module 54 operates the actuation of the valve 52 to allow the fluid to be discharged from the filter 14'.

[0440] Fig.19 is a schematic example of a known gas generating device. In the example shown here, the device generates hydrogen from water.

[0441] The operation of such gas generating devices is well known and a detailed description of the operation of these devices is not provided herein.

[0442] Fig.19 The gas generating device K comprises the following components: 1 Water tank 8Overvoltage switch 2 Deionization column 9. Pressure Transducer 3 Water Pump 10Dryer membrane 4 Electrolytic Cell 11 column dryer / molecular sieve 5. Water separation tank 12 Pressure regulator 6. Separation valve 13 Delivery valve 7 fixed orifice (0.5mm) 14 Exhaust valve As is known in such gas generation devices, the separation valve 6 is used to drain the accumulated water from which the hydrogen is removed by the water separation tank 5. The separation valve 6 is usually operated with a single level sensor which opens to drain the accumulated water when triggered by the presence of water. The valve is opened for a fixed time which is assumed to be long enough to allow the water to drain.

[0443] However, with this known system, it is difficult to determine whether the separation valve 6 is functioning properly and whether the accumulated water is being drained. If the water is not drained by the separation valve 6, the hydrogen passing through the water separation tank will include high levels of water vapor, moisture, etc., and serious damage may occur to the components of the device, especially the dryer membrane 10 and the column dryer / molecular sieve 11. It is also possible that the gas generated by the device may contain unacceptable levels of water or water vapor, which may damage other devices to which the gas is supplied.

[0444] In known systems, the separation valve 6 drains the accumulated water by opening and closing at set time periods. The time period is determined by calculating the length of time the valve needs to be open in order to drain the expected volume of accumulated water from it. The expected water volume is the volume of water expected to accumulate by the water separation tank 5 during a certain operating time of the generator. The time periods for opening and closing the valve are usually factory preset, based on the expected operating conditions of the gas generator. However, the operating site conditions of the gas generator mean that it is often difficult to understand whether the separation valve 6 is working properly, which is inconvenient and may lead to one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

[0445] As mentioned above, the present inventors have recognized the disadvantages of the known gas generating device K.

[0446] Reference Fig. 20 , illustrates a gas generating device L. As further described below, a liquid level control device 30 may be used in the gas generating device L.

[0447] The operations of the gas generating device L and the liquid level controlling device 30 will now be described.

[0448] like Fig. 20 As shown, water is supplied from a water tank 1' (an example of a fluid inlet) to a deionization column 2' before being pumped to an electrolytic cell 4' (an example of a first fluid separator) by a water pump 3' (an example of a fluid pump). In the embodiment shown and described herein, the electrolytic cell 4' is a proton exchange membrane cell. However, it should be understood that any other device suitable for separating hydrogen from water may be used.

[0449] The output of the electrolytic cell 4' is hydrogen, water, and oxygen. The hydrogen may include water vapor, water vapor, or water particles, and may be referred to as wet hydrogen. The hydrogen then enters the water separation tank 5' (an example of a second fluid separator), where water (an example of a fluid) is separated from the hydrogen. In the embodiment shown and described herein, the water separation tank 5' provides a cavity or void that allows water to accumulate within the tank. The accumulated water then enters the fluid inlet 32a of the liquid level control device 30. The water from the electrolytic cell 4' can be returned to the water tank 1', and the oxygen from the electrolytic cell 4' can be discharged into the atmosphere.

[0450] The hydrogen from the water separation tank 5' then passes through the dryer membrane 10' and the column dryer / molecular sieve 11' before being delivered to the transfer valve 13' (an example of a gas outlet). The other components of the gas generation device L are well known and will not be described further herein.

[0451] Fig. 20 The gas generating device L comprises the following components: 1' water tank / fluid inlet 8' Overpressure Switch 2' Deionization column / deionization device 9' Pressure Transducer 3' Water Pump / Fluid Pump 10' dryer membrane 4' electrolytic cell / first fluid separator 11' column dryer / molecular sieve 5' Water Separation Tank / Second Fluid Separator 12' Pressure Regulator 30 Liquid level control device 13' delivery valve / gas outlet 7' fixed hole (0.5mm) 14' Exhaust Valve 40 outlet valve Continued operation of the gas generating device L causes water to accumulate in the liquid level control device 30 .

[0452] The operation of the liquid level control device 30 is the same as described above in the other gas generating devices / gas processing devices of the present invention.

[0453] Providing a level control device 30 according to the present invention ensures that water is being drained from the device is easily identified because the control module 38 is operable to expect to receive signals from the first sensor module 34 and the second sensor module 36. The lack of expected signals from the sensor modules 34, 36 (or the receipt of signals from the sensor modules 34, 36 at unexpected times) triggers an alarm condition, which indicates that there may be a fault in the device and appropriate action can be taken. This eliminates the need to rely on predetermined opening and closing cycles of the valve based on the expected operating conditions of the generator. Such early detection of a fault reduces the possibility of serious damage to the gas generating device or external facilities because the gas generating device can be closed very quickly when the alarm is triggered.

[0454] In addition, since the liquid level control device 30 according to the present invention functions as an independent component, there is no need to include specific code for valve control in the control software of the gas generating device, which reduces the complexity of the software. It also eliminates the need to include a component for controlling the valve on the control PCB of the gas generating device, which reduces its complexity.

[0455] Without departing from the scope of the present invention, modifications and improvements may be made to the above. For example, although the sensor modules 34 and 36 of the liquid level control device 30 have been shown and described above as optical sensors having light emitters 34a, 36a and light detectors 34b, 36b, it should be understood that other suitable sensor modules may be used.

[0456] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that one or more level control devices 30 and one or more fluid outlet valves 40 may be disposed in the housing 30a, 58 such that the level control system 30' may be provided as separate or independent components.

[0457] In addition, it should be understood that a gas separator can be considered as a filter or filtering unit. Its purpose is to separate or filter the constituent components in atmospheric air. That is, a gas separator can allow only one separated constituent component of atmospheric air to be produced or output therefrom.

[0458] Furthermore, it should be understood that although the level control device of the present invention has been shown and described herein for use with a gas generating device / gas processing device, the level control device can be used in other systems or arrangements. In other systems or arrangements, it should be understood that the level control device can be operated to control the level of liquid in at least a portion of the system or arrangement by allowing the main body portion to be fluidly connected to the fluid in the system so that the sensor module can sense the liquid level and the control module can control the operation of the valve. Therefore, the level control device of the present invention can function as a stand-alone component that can be installed or retrofitted to an existing system or arrangement where it is necessary to remove fluid while reducing the pressure drop therein.

[0459] In addition, it should be understood that although the valve device of the present invention has been shown and described herein for use with a gas generating device / gas processing device, the valve device can be used in other systems or arrangements. In other systems or arrangements, it should be understood that the valve device can be operated to discharge or exhaust fluid from the system or arrangement by allowing the valve to be fluidly connected to the fluid in the system, and the control module can control the operation of the valve. Therefore, the valve device of the present invention can function as an independent component that can be installed or retrofitted to an existing system or device where it is necessary to remove fluid while reducing the pressure drop therein.

[0460] Furthermore, although the liquid level control device 30 has been shown and described herein with reference to a gas generating device including a gas separator (nitrogen membrane), it should be understood that a gas separator is not required and the liquid level control device can be used in a system without a gas separator. The gas generating device in this arrangement without a gas separator is an example of a gas processing device, in which atmospheric air can be processed by a compressor unit, a filter unit and a liquid level control device. The gas processing device produces atmospheric air with a reduced water / steam content.

[0461] Furthermore, although the level control device 30 has been shown and described herein with reference to a gas generating device including a compressor unit, it should be understood that a compressor unit is not required and the level control device can be used in a system without a compressor unit. The gas generating device in this arrangement without a compressor unit is an example of a gas processing device, in which atmospheric air can be processed by a filtration unit and a level control device. The gas processing device produces atmospheric air with a reduced water / vapor content.

[0462] Furthermore, although each sensor module 34, 36 has been described above as an optical sensor, it should be understood that each sensor module 34, 36 can be considered an electromagnetic radiation sensor such that they can be capable of transmitting and / or detecting electromagnetic radiation. Each sensor module 34, 36 can be operable to operate in both the visible and invisible portions or electromagnetic spectrum. In this arrangement, the sensor modules 34, 36 can be electromagnetic radiation sensors having an electromagnetic radiation emitter and an electromagnetic radiation detector.

Claims

1. A gas generating device, comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; a level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a main body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas separator configured to separate the gas from the filtration unit; and A separated gas outlet is configured to receive separated compressed gas from the gas separator.

2. The gas generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The level control device is capable of automatic operation, and the control module is programmed to monitor the operation of the first sensor module and the second sensor module and control the operation of the fluid outlet valve.

3. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: Each sensor module is configured to output at least one signal indicating that fluid is detected at the location of the sensor and at least one signal indicating that fluid is not detected at the location of the sensor.

4. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first sensor module is positioned toward a lower portion of the body portion, and the second sensor module is positioned toward an upper portion of the body portion.

5. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the first sensor module and the second sensor module are optical sensors, each sensor module comprising a light emitter and a light detector.

6. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first sensor module and the second sensor module protrude into the body portion such that the first sensor module and the second sensor module can come into contact with fluid in the body portion during use.

7. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: The control module includes a microcontroller (MC), and the MC includes a power module, an input / output (I / O) module, a processor module, and a programming module.

8. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: The control module is configured to control the opening and closing of the fluid outlet valve of the liquid level control device when a signal indicating that fluid is sensed at the second position is received from the second sensor module, and to close the fluid outlet valve when a signal indicating that fluid is sensed at the first position is received from the first sensor module.

9. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: The control module is configured to control the fluid level in the body portion of the fluid level control device by monitoring operation of the first sensor module and the second sensor module and controlling operation of the fluid outlet valve.

10. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: The fluid outlet valve is an electronically controlled valve, and the control module is configured to control actuation of the fluid outlet valve.

11. The gas generating device according to claim 10, wherein: The control module controls actuation of the fluid outlet valve using variable pulses or using pulse width modulation (PWM).

12. The gas generating device according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein: The control module is configured to pulse open and close the valve at intervals based on one or more external system conditions coupled to the valve arrangement.

13. The gas generating device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein: The control module is operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

14. A gas generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: The filter unit of the gas generating apparatus is a fluid filter unit and the gas separator of the gas generating apparatus is a gas separator unit operable to separate the compressed gas from the filter unit into at least one of its constituent gas components.

15. A method for generating gas, comprising the steps of: A gas generating device is provided, the gas generating device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the air inlet; a level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a main body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas separator configured to separate the gas from the filtration unit; and a separated gas outlet configured to receive separated compressed gas from the gas separator; providing a gas to the gas inlet; filtering the gas from the gas inlet using the filter unit; operating the level control system to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; separating the gas from the filtration unit using the gas separator; and The separated gas is provided to the separated gas outlet.

16. A gas generating device comprising: Air intake unit; a compressor unit operable to draw gas through the air intake unit and into the compressor unit; a filter unit configured to filter compressed gas from the compressor unit; a level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the compressed gas by the filter unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a main body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas separator configured to separate the compressed gas from the filtration unit; and A gas storage tank is configured to receive and store the separated compressed gas from the gas separator.

17. A method for generating gas, comprising the steps of: A gas generating device is provided, the gas generating device comprising: Air intake unit; a compressor unit operable to draw gas through the air intake unit and into the compressor unit; a filter unit configured to filter compressed gas from the compressor unit; a level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the compressed gas by the filter unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a main body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas separator configured to separate the compressed gas from the filtration unit; and a gas storage tank configured to receive and store the separated compressed gas from the gas separator, operating the compressor unit to draw gas into the compressor unit through the air intake unit; filtering the compressed gas from the compressor unit using the filter unit; operating the level control system to control the level of fluid removed from the compressed gas by the filtration unit; separating the compressed gas from the filtration unit using the gas separator; and The separated gas from the gas separator is stored in the gas storage tank.

18. A liquid level control device, comprising: a main body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and A control module is configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal.

19. The liquid level control device according to claim 18, wherein: The level control device is capable of automatic operation, and the control module is programmed to monitor the operation of the first sensor module and the second sensor module and control the operation of the fluid outlet valve.

20. The liquid level control device according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein: Each sensor module is configured to output at least one signal indicating that fluid is detected at the location of the sensor and at least one signal indicating that fluid is not detected at the location of the sensor.

21. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein: The first sensor module is positioned toward a lower portion of the body portion, and the second sensor module is positioned toward an upper portion of the body portion.

22. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the first sensor module and the second sensor module are optical sensors, each sensor module comprising a light emitter and a light detector.

23. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein: The first sensor module and the second sensor module protrude into the body portion such that the first sensor module and the second sensor module can come into contact with fluid in the body portion during use.

24. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein: The control module includes a microcontroller (MC), and the MC includes a power module, an input / output (I / O) module, a processor module, and a programming module.

25. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 24, wherein: The control module is configured to control opening and closing of the fluid outlet valve upon receiving a signal from the second sensor module indicating that fluid is sensed at the second position, and to close the fluid outlet valve upon receiving a signal from the first sensor module indicating that fluid is sensed at the first position.

26. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 25, wherein: The control module is configured to control a fluid level in the body portion by monitoring operation of the first sensor module and the second sensor module and controlling operation of the fluid outlet valve.

27. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 26, wherein: The fluid outlet valve is an electronically controlled valve, and the control module is configured to control actuation of the fluid outlet valve.

28. The liquid level control device according to claim 27, wherein: The control module controls actuation of the fluid outlet valve using variable pulses or using pulse width modulation (PWM).

29. The liquid level control device according to claim 27 or claim 28, wherein: The control module is configured to pulse open and close the valve at intervals based on one or more external system conditions coupled to the valve arrangement.

30. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 29, wherein: The control module is operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

31. The liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 30, wherein: The liquid level control device also includes a fluid outlet valve.

32. A method of controlling a liquid level in a device, comprising the steps of: Providing a liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 31; operating the first sensor module to output a liquid level signal to the control module; operating the second sensor module to output a liquid level signal to the control module; and The control module is operated to send the fluid outlet valve control signal to the fluid outlet valve based on the fluid level signals received from the first sensor module and the second sensor module.

33. A liquid level control system, comprising: A liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 30; and Fluid outlet valve.

34. The liquid level control system according to claim 33, wherein: The liquid level control system further comprises a housing, in which the liquid level control device and the fluid outlet valve are located.

35. A liquid level control system, comprising: A liquid level control device according to any one of claims 18 to 31; and A housing, wherein the liquid level control device is located in the housing.

36. A valve device comprising: valve; and A control module is configured to control the operation of the valve.

37. The valve arrangement of claim 36, wherein the control module is configured to monitor one or more control signals and control operation of the valve.

38. A valve device according to claim 36 or claim 37, wherein: The control module includes a microcontroller (MC), and the MC includes a power module, an input / output (I / O) module, a processor module, and a programming module.

39. A valve device according to any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein: The valve is an electronically controlled valve, and the control module is configured to control actuation of the valve.

40. The valve device according to claim 39, wherein The control module controls actuation of the fluid outlet valve using variable pulses or using pulse width modulation (PWM).

41. A valve device according to claim 39 or claim 40, wherein: The control module is operable to pulse open and close the valve at intervals dependent upon one or more external system conditions coupled to the valve arrangement.

42. A valve device according to any one of claims 39 to 41, wherein: The control module is operable to vary the period or frequency at which the valve opens and closes.

43. A valve device according to any one of claims 36 to 42, wherein: The valve device further comprises a housing in which the valve and the control module are located.

44. A valve device according to any one of claims 36 to 42, wherein: The valve device further comprises a housing in which the valve and the control module are located.

45. A method of operating a valve, comprising: Providing a valve device according to any one of claims 36 to 44; and The control module is operated to control the operation of the valve.

46. ​​A gas generating device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; A valve arrangement according to any one of claims 36 to 44, operable to discharge fluid removed from the gas by the filter unit; a gas separator configured to separate the gas from the filtration unit; and A separated gas outlet is configured to receive separated compressed gas from the gas separator.

47. A method of generating gas, comprising the steps of: A gas generating device is provided, the gas generating device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the air inlet; A valve arrangement according to any one of claims 36 to 44, operable to discharge fluid removed from the gas by the filter unit; a gas separator configured to separate the gas from the filtration unit; and a separated gas outlet configured to receive separated compressed gas from the gas separator; providing a gas to the gas inlet; filtering the gas from the air inlet using the filter unit; operating the level control system to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; separating the gas from the filtration unit using the gas separator; and The separated gas is provided to the separated gas outlet.

48. A gas processing device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; a level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a main body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; A gas outlet is configured to receive the gas from the filter unit.

49. A method for treating gas, comprising the steps of: A gas processing device is provided, the gas processing device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; a level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and Fluid outlet valve; a gas outlet configured to receive the gas from the filtration unit; providing a gas to the gas inlet; filtering the gas from the gas inlet using the filter unit; operating the level control system to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; and The gas is provided to the gas outlet.

50. A gas processing device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; a valve arrangement operable to discharge fluid removed from the gas by the filter unit, the valve arrangement comprising: valve; and a control module configured to control operation of the valve; and A gas outlet is configured to receive the gas from the filter unit.

51. A method for treating gas, comprising the steps of: A gas processing device is provided, the gas processing device comprising: a gas inlet configured to allow gas to enter the device; a filter unit configured to filter the gas from the gas inlet; a valve arrangement operable to discharge fluid removed from the gas by the filter unit, the valve arrangement comprising: valve; and a control module configured to control operation of the valve; and a gas outlet configured to receive the gas from the filtration unit; providing a gas to the gas inlet; filtering the gas from the gas inlet using the filter unit; operating the level control system to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the filtration unit; and The gas is provided to the gas outlet.

52. A gas generating device comprising: a fluid inlet configured to allow fluid to enter the device; a first fluid separator configured to separate gas from the fluid from the fluid inlet; a second fluid separator configured to separate fluid from the gas from the first fluid separator; a level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the second fluid separator, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a main body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and a fluid outlet valve; and A gas outlet is configured to receive gas from the second fluid separator.

53. A method of generating gas, comprising the steps of: A gas generating device is provided, the gas generating device comprising: a fluid inlet configured to allow fluid to enter the device; a first fluid separator configured to separate gas from the fluid from the fluid inlet; a second fluid separator configured to separate fluid from the gas from the first fluid separator; a level control system operable to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the second fluid separator, the level control system comprising: A liquid level control device, the liquid level control device comprising: a main body portion having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a first sensor module configured to sense fluid at a first location within the body portion; a second sensor module configured to sense fluid at a second location within the body portion; and a control module configured to receive output signals from the first sensor module and the second sensor module and send a fluid outlet valve control signal; and a fluid outlet valve; and a gas outlet configured to receive gas from the second fluid separator, providing a fluid to the fluid inlet; separating the fluid from the fluid inlet using the first fluid separator; separating the gas from the first fluid separator using the second fluid separator; operating the level control device to control the level of fluid removed from the gas by the second fluid separator; and The gas from the second fluid separator is provided to the gas outlet.

Images