Fuel storage and supply apparatus with fuel conditioning assembly

Abstract

A fuel storage and supply device serves as a source of fuel to be dispensed via at least one fuel dispenser. The apparatus includes a reservoir for containing an amount of fuel. A pump assembly draws fuel from the reservoir and provides the fuel under pressure to the fuel supply line. The fuel conditioning assembly includes: a housing having a storage volume; a housing inlet receiving fuel under the pressure generated by the pump assembly; a housing outlet through which the fuel exits the housing; and a housing port through which fuel can be drawn into the housing. The vacuum source is operable to selectively apply a vacuum to the outlet such that fluid can be drawn into the housing via the port. A water inlet device in fluid communication with the housing port has at least one inlet located near the bottom of the container.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application for Invention No. 202180078837.6, filed on September 30, 2021, entitled “Fuel Storage and Supply Apparatus with Fuel Conditioning Assembly”. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to fuel dispensing environments having one or more fuel storage tanks. More particularly, the present invention relates to a fuel dispensing environment in which one or more storage tanks are equipped with a fuel conditioning assembly. BACKGROUND

[0003] Fuel dispensing environments, such as retail fueling stations and fuel depots, typically store fuel in fuel containers, such as underground storage tanks (USTs). In some cases, small amounts of water or debris can be introduced into the storage tank, which can degrade the fuel. For example, during periods of rainfall, water often runs off roadways in the forecourt area of a service station and into storm drains. Occasionally, some of this water can enter the underground storage tank. Typically, water and debris are denser than the fuel stored in the container and, as a result, settle near the bottom of the container. Water and fuel are immiscible, which causes a water layer to form beneath the fuel, creating a fuel / water interface layer in the storage tank. The level of the fuel / water interface is typically monitored to ensure that water is not introduced into the inlet through which fuel is drawn from the container.

[0004] When storing ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel and / or ULSD mixed with biodiesel fuel products, hydrocarbons can be produced by microorganisms (e.g., “humbugs”). These microorganisms can cause microbial induced corrosion (MIC) in fuel delivery systems and ancillary components, including fuel dispenser components, metering devices, shear valves, and fuel nozzles. In addition, microbial induced contamination can result.

[0005] Expensive proactive measures can be taken to clean the contaminated container, remove the water, and polish the fuel. This requires the container to be taken out of service, which adds additional sales loss costs to already high cleaning costs. This proactive measure typically involves passing the contents of the container through progressively restrictive filter media multiple times and, ultimately, through a coalescing filter that removes any free water. These cleaning systems are large scale, typically truck mounted, and designed to clean contamination, not prevent it.

[0006] Passive means have been utilized to prevent or detect water ingress into fuel containers, such as vent pipe caps, inlet seals, container inspections, and periodic quality testing. However, even small amounts of water can cause degradation of the fuel container and / or the fuel. When water is detected, it can be necessary to pump all of the fuel in the reservoir into a settling container to drain the water. After the water is drained, the fuel can then be reintroduced into the reservoir. Alternatively, the fuel container can be allowed to settle, and a suction hose can be used to draw the water at the bottom of the fuel container until the water layer is removed and only fuel flows through the suction hose. SUMMARY

[0007] The present invention recognizes and addresses the foregoing considerations, and others, in the context of existing structures and methods. In this respect, certain illustrative and non-limiting aspects of the present invention will now be described. These aspects are intended to provide some context for certain principles associated with the present invention, and are not intended to limit the full scope of the present invention.

[0008] According to one aspect, the present invention provides a fuel storage and supply apparatus for use as a source of fuel to be dispensed via at least one fuel dispenser in a fuel dispensing environment. The apparatus includes a reservoir for containing a quantity of fuel. A pump assembly is also provided for drawing fuel from the reservoir and providing the fuel under pressure. A fuel supply line is configured to carry the fuel under pressure from the pump assembly.

[0009] The fuel storage and supply apparatus further includes a fuel conditioning assembly including a housing having a storage volume, a housing inlet to receive fuel under pressure generated by the pump assembly, a housing outlet through which fuel exits the housing, and a housing port through which fuel can be drawn into the housing. A vacuum source in fluid communication with the housing outlet is operable to selectively apply a vacuum to the outlet of the housing such that fluid can be drawn into the housing via the port. A water intake device in fluid communication with the housing port has at least one inlet located proximate to a bottom of the fuel reservoir.

[0010] According to an exemplary embodiment, an inlet valve is positioned to allow inflow into the housing inlet, and an outlet valve is positioned to allow outflow from the housing outlet. The vacuum source can include a siphon element through which pressurized fuel flows to create a vacuum at a vacuum port of the siphon element, the vacuum port selectively in fluid communication with the housing outlet via the outlet valve. The siphon element can include a siphon barrel attached to a packer manifold of the pump assembly. In this embodiment, the pressurized fuel flowing through the siphon element can be a transfer volume of fuel under pressure provided by the pump assembly. The fuel can be selectively returned to the reservoir through the housing port via the water intake device.

[0011] According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing can also have a filter medium for removing particulates. In addition, the housing can have a water separation section that removes water in fuel supplied to the housing via the housing inlet. The filter can be located above the water separation section.

[0012] According to an exemplary embodiment, the port can be located above a maximum allowable water level in the housing. For example, the fuel conditioning assembly can also have a liquid level indicator operable to indicate a water level in the housing.

[0013] According to an exemplary embodiment, the water inlet device can have a plurality of parallel tubes that terminate at a plurality of locations spaced along a length of the water inlet device. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of parallel tubes can provide inflow and outflow depending on a manner of operation of the fuel conditioning assembly. At least a portion of the water inlet device can be located inside a guide tube that extends into the fuel reservoir.

[0014] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a water inlet device for use in a fuel reservoir. The water inlet device includes an elongated flow structure including a plurality of flexible flow tubes having first ends of respective different lengths and having second ends located at a common location. A header manifold is in fluid communication with the second ends of the flow tubes, the header manifold having a single connection port. In addition, the header manifold is configured to allow flow between the flow tubes and the connection port.

[0015] According to an exemplary embodiment, the elongated flow structure preferably assumes a generally L-shaped configuration when deployed in the fuel reservoir. In addition, a sled structure can be located at a distal end of the elongated flow structure. In addition, a sheath can be provided that houses the plurality of flexible flow tubes. For example, the sheath can define an opening at the first ends of the respective flow tubes. In addition, an elongated base plate, such as a generally flat strip (e.g., formed of stainless steel), can be located in the sheath.

[0016] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a water inlet device for use in a fuel reservoir. The water inlet device includes an elongated flow structure including at least one flexible flow tube having a first section with a distal side and a second end with a proximal side. A header manifold is in fluid communication with the second end of the flow tube, the header manifold having at least one connection port. The header manifold according to this aspect is configured to allow flow between the flow tube and the connection port. An elongated base plate is adjacent to the flow tube, wherein the elongated flow structure assumes a generally L-shaped configuration when deployed in the fuel reservoir.

[0017] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a method of controlling a fuel conditioning assembly operable to remove water from a fuel reservoir. One step of the method involves providing a housing having a water separation storage volume, a housing inlet to receive fuel under pressure, a housing outlet through which fuel exits the housing, and a housing port above a maximum allowable water level in the housing through which fuel can be drawn into the housing. An inlet valve is positioned to allow flow into the housing inlet, and an outlet valve is positioned to allow flow out of the housing outlet. A vacuum source in fluid communication with the housing outlet via the outlet valve is operable to selectively apply a vacuum to the outlet of the housing such that fluid can be drawn into the housing via the port. A water intake device in fluid communication with the housing port has at least one inlet located near a bottom of the fuel reservoir.

[0018] Another step of the method involves opening the outlet valve while closing the inlet valve to draw fluid from the fuel reservoir into the housing via the water intake device and the port and return the fuel to the fuel reservoir through the outlet valve. Another step of the method involves opening the inlet valve while closing the outlet valve to receive fluid from the fuel reservoir into the housing via the inlet valve and return the fuel to the fuel reservoir through the port and the water intake device.

[0019] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method of arranging a water intake device in a fuel reservoir. One step of the method involves providing a water intake device having an elongate flow structure including at least one flexible flow tube and including an elongate base plate adjacent the flow tube, wherein the base plate provides a semi-rigid characteristic that allows the elongate flow structure to be guided. Another step of the method involves providing a guide tube having a straight portion and an arcuate portion at a distal end of the guide tube. Another step of the method involves installing the guide tube into the fuel reservoir substantially vertically and with the arcuate portion pointing in a desired direction of guidance. Another step of the method involves moving the elongate flow structure of the water intake device through the guide tube into a deployed position.

[0020] The various systems and methods of the present invention utilize a number of combinations of the disclosed elements and method steps supported throughout the disclosure herein. Accordingly, combinations of elements other than those discussed above can be claimed. Furthermore, the accompanying drawings illustrate one or more embodiments each of which, by itself, is not intended to be limiting and in which: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0021] A complete and enabling disclosure of the present invention, encompassing the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1is a schematic view of a fuel storage and supply apparatus having a fuel conditioning assembly according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0022] Figure 2 is a view similar to Figure 1 showing the fuel conditioning assembly in one mode of operation.

[0023] Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 1 showing the fuel conditioning assembly in another mode of operation.

[0024] Figure 4 is a schematic view of a fuel storage and supply apparatus having a fuel conditioning assembly according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0025] Figure 5 is an isometric view of a water inlet device that can be used with the fuel conditioning assembly of the present application.

[0026] Figure 6A is a partial view of the coupling (manifold) portion of the water inlet device of Figure 5

[0027] is a cross-section of a portion of the coupling portion of Figure 6B Figure 6A

[0028] Figure 7A is a partial view of the intermediate portion of the water inlet device of Figure 5

[0029] is a cross-section of the intermediate portion of Figure 7B Figure 7A

[0030] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the end portion of the water inlet device of Figure 5

[0031] shows a portion of the fuel reservoir showing the guide tube in the fuel storage container for insertion of the water inlet device. Figure 9

[0032] shows the oil collection sump at the refueling site with the water inlet device prior to installation. Figure 10

[0033] shows the water inlet device partially inserted into the fuel reservoir. Figure 11

[0034] shows the water inlet device fully inserted into the fuel reservoir. Figure 12

[0035] Figures 13 to 16 ​​​​​is a process flow diagram of a fuel conditioning method in accordance with aspects of the present application.

[0036] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of an above ground reservoir using an alternative embodiment of a water inlet device in accordance with the present application.

[0037] Figure 18 is Figure 17 is an isometric, enlarged, partial cross-section of a portion of an above ground reservoir and water inlet device.

[0038] Figure 19 is Figure 17 is an isometric, enlarged, partial cross-section of a portion of an above ground reservoir and water inlet device.

[0039] Figure 20 is Figure 17 is an isometric, enlarged, partial cross-section of a portion of an above ground reservoir and water inlet device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Reference will now be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the application, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the application and is not meant as a restriction of the application. In fact, many variations and modifications of the application can be made that fall within the scope of the application. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment, can be used with another embodiment to yield still a further embodiment. Thus, the present application is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

[0041] Figure 1 A fuel storage and supply system 10 is shown having a fuel reservoir 12, such as an underground storage tank (UST), that stores a quantity of fuel 14 that is dispensed by a fuel dispenser in a fuel dispensing environment, such as a retail fueling station. In this case, a quantity of water 16 (or a mixture of fuel and water) is located at the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12. Although not shown, a tank probe typically extends into the fuel reservoir 12. The tank probe has a fuel level sensor for determining the level of fuel 14 in the fuel reservoir 12 and a water level sensor for determining the level of water 16 in the fuel reservoir 12. A fuel pump, such as pump assembly 18 in the illustrated embodiment, is associated with the fuel reservoir 12 to pump the fuel 14 into one or more fuel supply lines 20 that provide fuel to the fuel dispenser. The path that the fuel 14 flows from the fuel pump to the fuel dispenser is the dispenser flow path.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, pump assembly 18 includes a pump 22, such as a submersible turbine pump (STP), that is immersed in fuel 14 at the lower end of column 24. A packer manifold 26, which defines a main fluid passageway, is located at the upper end of column 24. Pump 22 transfers fuel 14 from fuel reservoir 12 through column 24 to packer manifold 26, and on to fuel supply line 20. A check valve 28 is located at the outlet of pump assembly 18 to maintain fuel 14 under pressure in fuel supply line 20 when pump 22 is off, e.g., when no dispensing is taking place. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, packer manifold 26 will typically be located in a containment sump defined below grade when fuel reservoir 12 is a UST. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that while shown as a submersible turbine pump, pump 22 can be any mechanism suitable for drawing fuel 14 from fuel reservoir 12. One example of pump 22 is a Red Jacket submersible turbine pump sold by Veeder-Root Company of Simsbury, Connecticut.

[0043] An automatic tank gauge (ATG) 30 manages the storage and supply of fuel 14. (Suitable ATGs include the TLS-450 ATG and TLS-350 ATG sold by Veeder-Root Company). In this regard, ATG 30 is electrically connected to a tank probe to determine the level of fuel 14 and water 16 in fuel reservoir 12. ATG 30 is also electrically connected to a fuel dispenser meter in the fuel dispenser, or otherwise connected to the control circuitry of the fuel dispenser, and to pump 22. ATG 30 is preferably also in electrical communication with a pressure sensor disposed along fuel supply line 20.

[0044] With the information received from the fuel dispenser meter and pressure sensor, ATG 30 can operate pump 22 to meet the needs of the fuel dispenser. Further, with readings from the line pressure sensor, ATG 30 can detect potential leaks in fuel supply line 20. For example, ATG 30 can pressurize fuel supply line 20 with pump 22 during a stop in fuel dispenser dispensing of fuel 14. Once fuel supply line 20 is pressurized, ATG 30 shuts off pump 22 and monitors the pressure in the supply line with the line pressure sensor. Fuel supply line 20 should maintain pressure for a predetermined period of time due to the presence of check valve 28. If ATG 30 determines that the pressure in fuel supply line 20 decreases too much or too quickly, this can indicate a leak somewhere in fuel storage and supply system 10. The line pressure sensor for measuring pressure in fuel supply line 20 can be disposed at any suitable point between pump assembly 18 and the fuel dispenser.

[0045] A fuel conditioning assembly, such as an in-situ fuel conditioning (ISFC) assembly 100, is provided to improve the quality of fuel 14 in a fuel reservoir 12. In particular, the ISFC assembly 100 operates to receive fuel 14 from the fuel reservoir 12 and to accept water 16 when present. A water removal device 102 functions to remove and collect water from the fuel. The water removal device 102 can also include a filter element to remove particulates or other contaminants from the fuel. After the water is removed and / or the fuel is filtered, the fuel is returned to the fuel reservoir 12. The water removal device 102 can advantageously be located in the containment pit described above, although this is not necessary for operation.

[0046] According to this embodiment, water is separated from the fuel by gravity in a coalescing housing 104. In this regard, the coalescing housing 104 has a volume into which fuel and / or water at the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12 is drawn. As can be seen, the ISFC assembly 100 includes a water inlet device (WID) 106 in fluid communication with a port 108 defined in the coalescing housing 104. For example, the port 108 can be located on a side of the coalescing housing 104 at a location above the maximum allowable water level.

[0047] In this embodiment, the WID 106 includes a portion that is positioned along the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12. Preferably, an inlet 110 of the WID 106 can be located substantially at a distal end of the WID 106 (i.e., the end of the flow path that is distal from the port 108). Thus, the inlet 110 can be positioned near the lowest point in the fuel reservoir 12, taking into account the geometry of the vessel and any inclination in the orientation of the fuel reservoir 12. This will help to retrieve more water from the fuel reservoir 12 than would otherwise be possible. In this embodiment, the WID 106 also functions to return fuel to the fuel reservoir 12 in certain operating modes.

[0048] The water removal device 102 includes a level indicator 112 that provides an indication of the level (or amount) of water in the coalescing housing 104. In this embodiment, the level indicator 112 is in the form of a probe having a float 114 that follows a fuel-water interface 116 in the housing. The water level is used to determine when the coalescing housing 104 needs to be emptied. In addition, as will be more fully explained below, changes in the water level can be used to indicate certain aspects of the operation of the assembly 100.

[0049] An inlet valve 118, such as an electrically operated ball valve, is opened to allow fuel to flow under pressure into the water removal device 102. As can be seen, the inlet valve 118 is disposed along a branch line 120 that is in fluid communication with the outlet of the pump assembly 18 downstream of the check valve 28. When the inlet valve 118 is opened, fuel will flow into the inlet of the water removal device 102, which in this case is the inlet of the filter unit 122. Similarly, an outlet valve 124, such as an electrically operated ball valve, is located at the outlet of the filter unit 122 (and thus the outlet of the water removal device 102).

[0050] In this embodiment, the filter unit 122 includes filter media 126 through which fuel passes to remove filterable particulates and the like. After passing through the filter media from the inlet, the fuel in this case flows into a water separation portion 128 of the filter unit 122. The water separation portion 128 removes and collects any water that is emulsified in the otherwise clean fuel. Eventually, this collected water falls to the bottom of the coalescing housing 104.

[0051] A vacuum source, such as a vacuum pump or siphon, is located downstream of the outlet valve 124 along an outlet line 130 to draw fluid out of the water removal device 102. In this embodiment, the vacuum source includes a siphon device 132 that applies a vacuum to the outlet of the water removal device 102 when the outlet valve 124 is opened. The vacuum is created by the venturi effect as fuel passes through a constriction in the siphon device 132. In this embodiment, fuel to create the vacuum is supplied through the pump assembly 18 along a branch line 134 through the siphon device 132 and back to the fuel reservoir 12. Preferably, as shown, this return will be at a location closer to the top of the container rather than the bottom in order to minimize interference with the water at the bottom. The outlet line 130 is connected to the siphon device 132 at a port that is in fluid communication with the constriction. Although the siphon device 132 is shown as a separate device in Figure 1 Although the siphon device 132 is shown as a separate device in

[0052] One or more pressure sensors can be provided at the inlet and / or outlet of the water removal device 102 to determine the condition of the filter media 126. For example, the illustrated embodiment utilizes a pressure sensor 135 located at the outlet of the water removal device 102. Pressure readings taken during use can be compared to baseline pressure readings taken when the filter media 126 is new. If the pressure has dropped below a predetermined threshold from the baseline value (e.g., 20 psi), this indicates that the filter media 126 needs servicing or replacement. As can be seen, the level indicator 112, inlet valve 118, outlet valve 124, and pressure sensor 135 are all in electrical communication with the ATG 30, which in this case is suitably programmed to control the ISFC assembly 100. In other embodiments, a separate controller can be provided in electrical communication with the ATG 30.

[0053] Referring now to Figure 2 , the ISFC assembly 100 can operate with the inlet valve 118 closed and the outlet valve 124 open. In this case, the pump assembly 18 causes pressurized fuel to flow through the siphon 132. However, since the inlet valve 118 is closed, no fuel flows into the inlet of the water removal device 102. Thus, the water removal device 102 will be emptied. Water and / or fuel at the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12 is thereby drawn by the WID 106 and enters the coalescing housing 104 via the port 108. The water entering the coalescing housing 104 falls to the bottom by gravity and collects, as shown at 136. The fuel above the fuel-water interface 116 is drawn into the outlet line 130 and circulated back to the container 12 via the siphon 132.

[0054] Readings from the level indicator 112 are interpreted by the ATG 30 to determine whether water is being removed from the fuel. For example, the level indicator 112 can be monitored by software running in the ATG 30 during the period when water and / or fuel is being drawn from the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12. If water is being collected during the draw period (as indicated by the rise of the fuel-water interface 116), the ISFC assembly 100 will continue to operate to obtain additional water. If no more water is being collected by the draw, the IFSC assembly 100 can begin intermittent reverse flow periods to push water along the container bottom toward the inlet 110 of the WID 106 or to clear any potential obstructions in the purge line. Once all the water has been removed, the ISFC assembly 100 can be deactivated and wait for the next time fuel is delivered to the fuel reservoir 12. By monitoring the level of the fuel-water interface 116, direct control of the inlet valve 118 and outlet valve 124 can prevent any water from being ejected from the outlet port of the water removal device 102. This prevents the undesirable condition of emulsified water and fuel product being returned to the container.

[0055] As can be seen, in this embodiment, there is no intentional mixing of fuel and water. Specifically, the location of the port 108 and the operation of the level indicator 112 prevent water from entering and being entrained in the siphon. Thus, the filter unit 122 is protected from large amounts of water and is only used for fine water removal and fuel polishing. The frequency of required maintenance of the filter unit 122 is thus reduced. The incidence of difficult to remove emulsified water is also reduced.

[0056] Referring now to Figure 3 , the ISFC assembly 100 can operate with the inlet valve 118 open and the outlet valve 124 closed. In this case, the coalescing housing 104 is pressurized by the pump assembly 18. Thus, fuel flows through the filter unit 122 into the coalescing housing 104. Particulates in the fuel are thus removed by the media 126 and any small amount of water that can be present is removed by the water separation section 128. As described above, the removed water drops to the bottom of the coalescing housing 104 and the fuel is returned to the fuel reservoir 12 through the port 108 and the WID 106. The inlet valve 118 can be opened, for example, when it is desired to fill the coalescing housing 104 with fuel obtained above the level of water 16 in the fuel reservoir 12 by the pump assembly 18. The fuel returned to the fuel reservoir 12 through the WID 106 can be used to sweep (push) water along the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12 towards the inlet 110 (or to unblock one or more tubes of the WID 106).

[0057] Accordingly, in this embodiment, the WID 106 is used to alternately couple the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12 to the coalescing housing 104 in either a pressurized state (when the inlet valve 118 is open) or a vented state (when the inlet valve 118 is closed and the outlet valve 124 is open). In this regard, the WID 106 can have one or more tubes, such as a plurality of parallel tubes. In the case of a plurality of parallel tubes, one or more tubes can operate only in the suction mode, while the other tubes operate as the sweep tube. Alternatively, the WID 106 can be configured so that all tubes operate simultaneously in both the suction and sweep modes. In the case where separate sweep tubes are provided, a check mechanism 138 can be provided to prevent suction into the sweep tubes. In this case, the single longest tube extends to the inlet 110 of the WID 106 to be at the lowest point within the fuel reservoir 12 consistent with any tilt. In this way, water is collected at the low point by gravity or with additional power from the sweep tubes that allows the fuel to flow along the container bottom so that the collected water will tend to flow to the lowest point. The WID 106 is designed so that the water is moved slowly, thereby reducing the risk of water emulsification with the fuel. As will be explained below, the sweep tubes can preferably terminate at a plurality of locations spaced along the WID 106 from the distal end where the inlet 110 is located. (In embodiments without a check mechanism, all tubes will either suction or sweep depending on the direction of flow.)

[0058] Figure 4 An alternative embodiment of an ISFC assembly 200 according to the present application is shown. Elements that are unchanged from the previous embodiment will be identified with the same reference numbers. Like elements will be identified by the reference numbers of the previous embodiment increased by one hundred. In this case, separate suction and sweep tubes 206a and 206b are shown. As noted above, the tubes can be packaged into a single piece of water inlet device, but in this arrangement the water inlet device need not have a check mechanism. Instead, a check mechanism 238 can be located at the port 208. The sweep tube 206b can include multiple tubes that exit at different locations to direct water to the lowest portion of the fuel reservoir 12 as described above (the location of the inlet 210 of the suction tube 206a). In this illustration, the sweep tube 206b is shown as being slightly higher than the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12, but in practice can be placed on the container bottom along with the suction tube 206a.

[0059] In this embodiment, fuel is supplied to the sweep line 206b along a line 240 fluidly connected to an outlet valve 224. The outlet valve 224 has one inlet and two outlets, one of which is open while the other is closed, depending on the activation state of the outlet valve 224. For example, if the outlet valve 224 is deactivated, pressurized fuel exiting the coalescing housing 104 is fed through the sweep line 206a. The pressurized fuel is supplied by the pump assembly 18 along the branch line 120 through the inlet valve 118, which is open. The fuel is passed through the filter unit 122 for polishing and fine water removal before being supplied back to the fuel reservoir 12.

[0060] Alternatively, the outlet valve 224 can be engaged, which closes the outlet to the line 240. Instead, the outlet to the line 230 will be open. As described above, fuel flows from the pump assembly 18 through the siphon 132 to create a vacuum at the coalescing housing 104. With the inlet valve 118 closed, water and / or fuel at the bottom of the fuel reservoir 12 will be drawn into the coalescing housing 104 for gross water separation by gravity as described above.

[0061] Referring now to Figures 5 to 8 Additional details of the WID 106 will be explained. As briefly described above, it has been found that vigorous agitation of water at the bottom of a fuel reservoir can result in undesirable levels of emulsification of water with fuel. The design of the WID 106 is such that the turbulence created at the bottom of the container does not exceed very low levels, while providing broad access for water to be drawn. In the sweep mode, pressure from the pump assembly 18 creates a slow sweep motion of fuel spouting along the bottom of the container. Water is concentrated at a collection point, which is at the next available downstream access tube or eventually at an end suction point (e.g., at the lowest point in the container).

[0062] In this embodiment, the WID 106 includes a coupling element or collection manifold 502 at its proximal end (i.e., the end at which it connects to the other tubes of the IFSC assembly 100), and includes an elongated flow structure 503. As Figure 6A and Figure 6BAs shown in FIG. 5, manifold 502 is configured in this embodiment as a "6 to 1" manifold, whereby six tubes of elongated flow structure 503, such as tube 504, converge to a single inlet / outlet 506. Tube 504 is preferably constructed of any suitable flexible material, such as FEP. In a preferred embodiment, tube 504 can have a ¼" or 3 / 8" diameter. Additionally, tube 504 can be encased in a suitable sheath 508, such as PVC heat shrink material. A base plate or strap 510 extends along the entire length of WID 106 to limit movement and allow for precise placement of the distal end of WID 106 at the lowest point in the vessel. In a preferred embodiment, strap 510 can be stainless steel. Strap 510 provides a semi-rigid characteristic that allows elongated flow structure 503 to be guided, as will be more fully described below. Regardless of size and material, the preferred embodiment is positioned in a manner, i.e., equidistant spacing of the tubes along the vessel length and a balance of tube diameter to flow area resulting therefrom, that produces an operating pressure differential of less than 2 pounds per square inch (psi) and a suction flow of less than 2 gallons per minute (gpm), which forms an optimal efficiency for water removal.

[0063] As Figure 5 shown in FIG. 5, elongated flow structure 503 generally assumes an L-shaped configuration when installed, having a generally vertical leg and a generally horizontal leg along the bottom of the vessel. While embodiments are contemplated in which the respective tubes 504 terminate at one location along the horizontal leg, in the embodiment shown, the respective tubes 504 terminate at multiple locations spaced along the horizontal leg to create multiple inlets / outlets for water collection and fuel ejection during a sweep. Figure 7A and Figure 7B One such location is shown in FIG. 6, in which inlet / outlet 512 is created by the termination of tube 504. In this regard, different tubes can have different diameters to preferentially flow through the longest tube that extends to the end of WID 106. For example, the longest tube can have a 3 / 8" internal diameter, with the shorter tubes having a ¼" internal diameter.

[0064] Referring now to FIG. 7, Figure 8 the distal end of elongated flow structure 503 has an enlarged tip portion 516 that encloses the termination of longest tube 504. In this example, tip portion 516 carries an angled "sled" 518 that facilitates movement of tip portion 516 along the vessel bottom during installation. As shown, a right angle diverter 520 directs end opening 522 toward the bottom of the vessel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments are also contemplated that do not have such a sled structure.

[0065] In this embodiment, the WID 106 is formed as a flexible element, where all flow is split into chambers through a common piping system. This design directs all flow through a common chamber and common piping, and connects to the tank internal fuel regulator (filter unit) through an open port with no valves. Further, in both modes, the WID 106 obtains water via suction and directs any accumulated water and pressurized clean fuel in a fully distributed manner.

[0066] Further, the WID 106 is simply directed to the bottom of the container and pushed along the length of the container bottom via a guide tube. The WID is essentially self-arranging and has minimal impact and damage to the container structure. To this end, Figure 9 A guide tube 550 is shown located in the fuel reservoir 12 to facilitate insertion of the WID 106. The guide tube 550 includes a substantially straight portion 552 that extends vertically into the interior of the fuel reservoir 12. An arcuate portion 554 is located at the distal end of the guide tube 550. In this embodiment, the guide tube 550 is installed via a tubular riser 556 located in a slot 558. The proximal end of the guide tube 550 carries a flange 560 that is attached to the riser 556, such as by bolts. Preferably, the flange 560 can be marked with an indication of the direction of the arcuate portion 554, such as an arrow, so that the installer can point the arcuate portion toward the lowest portion of the container (where water tends to collect).

[0067] Figure 10 The WID 106 is shown prior to its installation in the fuel reservoir 12. As can be seen, in this embodiment, the elongated flow structure 503 is initially coiled for efficient storage. Installation begins with insertion of the top end portion 516 into the proximal end of the guide tube 550 in the slot 558. (The slot cover 561 is removed and shown on the surface of the ground surface in front of the slot opening.) As the elongated flow structure 503 is uncoiled, additional lengths of the elongated flow structure 503 are fed into the guide tube 550. As Figure 11 As shown in the middle, the top end portion 516 of the elongated flow structure 503 eventually exits the arcuate portion 554 of the guide tube 550. Due to the orientation of the arcuate portion 554, as the installation progresses toward the desired location in the container (typically at or near the lowest point), the top end portion 516 will move along the container bottom. Once the manifold 502 is at the flange 560 of the guide tube 550, the top end portion 516 will be at the desired location.

[0068] Figures 13 to 16 Aspects of the operation of the IFSC assemblies 100 and 200 (e.g., under the control of the ATG 30) in accordance with certain aspects are shown. Reference is now made to Figure 13Once the system has completed starting up (as indicated by step 1300), it is determined whether fuel delivery is occurring (as indicated by step 1302). If so, the IFSC assembly enters a polishing mode (as indicated by step 1304), in which filtered pressurized fuel supplied by the pump assembly is polished and fine water removal is accomplished. The polishing mode can continue for a period of time (e.g., 30 minutes) after fuel delivery is completed to ensure that the fuel is properly conditioned after agitation in the tank due to delivery. If no water has been collected the previous day (as indicated by decision point 1306), the IFSC assembly enters an idle mode (as indicated by step 1308). If water has been collected, the process continues (as indicated by step 1310) to Figure 14 .

[0069] Referring now to Figure 14 , the IFSC assembly determines whether the time of day is greater than or equal to a programmed start time (as indicated by step 1400). For example, the programmed start time can be based on a time of day when the fuel dispenser is expected to be inactive, such as late at night. If the start time has not been reached, the IFSC assembly remains in an idle mode (as indicated by step 1402). If the start time has been reached, it is determined whether water that resulted from the last start has been drained from the coalescing housing (as indicated by step 1404). If not, it is determined whether any filter media in the water removal device 102 has been replaced (as indicated by step 1406). If water has been drained or filter media has been replaced, the system enters a fill mode (as indicated by step 1408), in which pressurized fuel is sent into the coalescing housing.

[0070] Next, the system begins running in a draw mode while a counter is at n = 0 (as indicated by step 1410, step 1412, and step 1414). It is then determined whether a water float in the coalescing housing has moved upward, indicating that water is being collected from the reservoir (as indicated by step 1416 and step 1418). If the water float remains at the bottom of the coalescing housing, the draw process continues as indicated by step 1420 and step 1422 until n is greater than a certain count (e.g., 3 or a user programmed limit). If the water float has risen by more than a threshold value (e.g., 0.025 inches or otherwise selected) determined previously, the draw is repeated. If the water float is no longer moving upward (e.g., the amount of upward movement is less than the threshold value), the process advances until n is greater than 3 or a user programmed limit (as indicated by step 1420 and step 1422). If the water float is no longer moving upward (e.g., the amount of upward movement is less than the threshold value), the process proceeds to Figure 15 (as indicated by step 1424)

[0071] Referring now to Figure 15, the counter is again set to n = 0 (as shown in step 1102). If the wiper is installed (as shown in step 1500), the process enters the wiper mode (as shown in step 1504) for a period of time (e.g., two minutes or set by the user). As discussed above, this tends to clean the tube and also moves any water along the bottom of the reservoir. The IFSC assembly then again enters the suction mode (as shown in step 1506). It is determined whether the water float has moved upward, indicating that water is being collected (as shown in step 1508). If the water float moves upward, the suction mode continues (at least until the coalescing housing reaches its water limit).

[0072] If the water float does not move upward (e.g., by less than a threshold amount), the counter is increased (as shown in steps 1510 and 1512) until n is greater than a certain count (e.g., 2 or a user programmed limit). If n is not greater than a certain count (e.g., 2), the wiper mode is again turned on. If n is greater than a certain count (e.g., 2), the process proceeds to Figure 16 (1514).

[0073] Referring now to Figure 16 , the IFSC assembly can then determine whether a filter has been installed (as shown in step 1600). If it has been installed and the programmed polishing time is greater than zero (as shown in step 1602), the IFSC assembly enters the polishing mode (as shown in step 1604). The IFSC then returns to the idle mode (as shown in step 1606).

[0074] Figures 17 to 20 Aspects of an alternative embodiment of a water inlet device (WID) 1700 according to the present disclosure are shown. The WID 1700 can be similar in many respects to the WID 106, but installed in an above ground fuel reservoir 1702. Because the sides of the fuel reservoir 1702 are exposed (i.e., not buried), the WID 1700 can be substantially straight (i.e., not L-shaped) and installed near the bottom of the container through an aperture 1704. For example, a manifold 1706 of the WID 1700 can define external threads 1708 that engage internal threads of the aperture 1704 to retain the WID 1700 in place. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the manifold 1706 can be similar in other respects to the manifold 502 as discussed above. In this regard, the manifold 1706 can include an inlet / outlet 1710 that allows fluid communication with the port 108 (as discussed above with respect to the manifold 502). Figure 20 In this embodiment, the tubing between the inlet / outlet 1710 and the port 108 will be external to the fuel reservoir 1702.

[0075] The WID 1700 also includes an elongated flow structure 1712 that extends along the bottom of the fuel reservoir 1702. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the flow structure 1712 can be similar in a number of respects to the elongated flow structure 503 as discussed above. For example, the flow structure 1712 can have a substrate or ribbon 1714 (e.g., a semi-rigid ribbon) along which one or more tubes extend. While only one such tube 1716 is shown in the partial view of FIG. 17, multiple parallel tubes can generally be provided. To this end, the parallel tubes can be seated in and held by a plurality of spaced structures 1718 provided along the length of the ribbon 1714. Further, similar to the above description, the tubes can be wrapped in a sheath. Figures 18 to 20

[0076] While a number of embodiments are envisioned, the WID 1700 in this embodiment directs all flow through a common chamber and common tube, and connects to the tank fuel regulator through an open port without a valve.

[0077] Reference is made to U.S. Published Application No. 2020 / 0102207 Al, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

[0078] It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present application provide compact and efficient fuel conditioning and filtration capabilities. In this regard, it is necessary to remove water from the UST to prevent contamination and corrosion of the UST and other components of the fuel delivery system. The apparatus and methods described herein provide a direct benefit in water removal due to more extensive contact with the bottom of the container where water collects and accommodating field conditions when water is not present or accessible. Real-time and historical information regarding water collection allows for predictive maintenance and removal of water from the coalescing housing itself. Further, by adapting to water removal, the pump does not run when water is not present or accessible, which significantly conserves energy as compared to systems that run at programmed time points within a programmed period. Further, by contacting the bottom of the container over a large area along the length of the container, the system can access more water than otherwise.

[0079] ​Those skilled in the art who have the benefit of the teachings of the present application as set forth in the descriptions above and accompanying drawings will appreciate that numerous modifications can be made to the specific implementations described above without departing from the scope of the present application. Accordingly, it is intended that all such modifications be included within the scope of the present application. Moreover, although example implementations have been described in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other combinations of elements and / or functions are also possible and can provide the same or similar benefits described above. In this regard, for example, elements and / or functions from one example implementation can be interchanged with elements and / or functions from other example implementations, without departing from the scope of the present application. While specific terminology has been used to describe the example implementations, these implementations should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A water inlet device for use in a fuel reservoir, the water inlet device comprising: An elongated flow structure includes multiple flexible flow tubes, each having a first end of different lengths and a second end located at a common position. A manifold, in fluid communication with the second end of the flow tube, the manifold having a single connection port; and The manifold is configured to allow flow between the flow tube and the connection port.

2. The water inlet device according to claim 1, wherein, The elongated flow structure takes on an L-shaped configuration when deployed in the fuel reservoir.

3. The water inlet device according to claim 2 further includes a trolley structure located at the distal end of the elongated flow structure.

4. The water inlet device according to claim 1 further includes a sheath accommodating the plurality of flexible flow tubes.

5. The water inlet device according to claim 4, wherein, The sheath defines an opening at each of the first ends of the flow tubes.

6. The water inlet device according to claim 5 further includes an elongated substrate located in the sheath.

7. The water inlet device according to claim 6, wherein, The elongated substrate includes a flat strip.

8. The water inlet device according to claim 7, wherein, The flat strip contains stainless steel.

9. A water inlet device for use in a fuel reservoir, the water inlet device comprising: An elongated flow structure, comprising at least one flexible flow tube having a distal first end and a proximal second end; A manifold is in fluid communication with the second end of the flow tube, and the manifold has at least one connection port; The manifold is configured to allow flow between the flow tube and the connection port; as well as An elongated substrate is located adjacent to the flow tube, wherein the elongated flow structure has an L-shaped configuration when deployed in the fuel reservoir.

10. The water inlet device according to claim 9, wherein, The substrate provides semi-rigid properties that allow the elongation flow structure to be guided.

11. The water inlet device according to claim 9, wherein, The elongated substrate includes a flat strip.

12. The water inlet device according to claim 11, wherein, The flat strip contains stainless steel.

13. The water inlet device according to claim 9 further includes a trolley structure located at the distal end of the elongated flow structure.

14. The water inlet device according to claim 9, further comprising a sheath accommodating the flow tube and the elongated substrate.

15. The water inlet device according to claim 10, wherein, The elongation flow structure unfolds from a non-L-shaped configuration to the L-shaped configuration.

16. A method for deploying a water intake device in a fuel reservoir, the method comprising the steps of: A water inlet device is provided, the water inlet device having an elongated flow structure including at least one flexible flow tube and an elongated substrate adjacent to the flow tube, wherein the substrate provides a semi-rigid characteristic that allows the elongated flow structure to be guided. A guide tube is provided, the guide tube having a substantially straight portion and an arcuate portion located at the distal end of the guide tube; The guide tube is installed vertically into the fuel reservoir, with the arcuate portion pointing in the desired guiding direction; The elongated flow structure of the water inlet device is moved to the unfolded position through the guide tube.

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