Air drying device for a storage tank and sealing control method

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of storage tank, particularly to an air drying device for storage tank and a sealing control method, comprising a sealing member arranged in a connecting head; a lifting mechanism arranged in a drying agent container, and the lifting mechanism is in contact with the sealing member. By arranging the sealing member in the connecting head, when the drying agent container is separated from the connecting head, the sealing member can automatically close the communication opening of the connecting head, thereby effectively avoiding the direct entry of external humid air into the ventilation system through the connecting head during the disassembly, replacement or maintenance of the drying agent container, and improving the moisture-proof protection capability of the air drying device for the rear-end system. Meanwhile, when the drying agent container is in communication with the connecting head, the sealing member can open the communication opening to ensure normal gas circulation, thereby balancing the sealing reliability and ventilation demand.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of storage tank technology, and in particular to an air drying device and sealing control method for storage tanks. Background Technology

[0002] In a storage tank breathing system, when the tank requires air intake due to material discharge, temperature changes, or pressure fluctuations, outside air enters the tank through the breathing channel. For storing media that are sensitive to humidity, or in scenarios where the process requires low moisture content of the air entering the tank, an air drying device is usually installed in the tank ventilation system. This device uses a desiccant to dehumidify the incoming air, thereby reducing the adverse effects of humid air directly entering the tank on the quality of the stored media, the safety of tank operation, and the stability of the system. This type of air drying device is usually used in conjunction with the tank ventilation system and requires replacement or regeneration of the desiccant after it becomes saturated with moisture.

[0003] Existing air drying devices, while fulfilling normal ventilation and dehumidification functions, often also need to accommodate the disassembly and maintenance of desiccant containers. When the desiccant container is detached from the connector, the connecting part of the connector is easily left open. If the ambient humidity is high, or if the storage tank's ventilation system still requires air intake, humid air may directly enter the ventilation system or even the storage tank through this connecting part, thereby weakening the dehumidification effect of the air dryer and affecting the storage environment of the medium inside the tank. To prevent humid air from entering, existing technologies typically require additional temporary sealing, shutdown for maintenance, or additional capping, which are cumbersome and detrimental to improving the sealing reliability and maintenance convenience during desiccant replacement. Therefore, how to effectively seal the connecting opening of the connector when the desiccant container is separated from the connector has become a technical problem that needs to be solved for this type of air dryer. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In this section, as well as in the abstract and title of this application, some simplifications or omissions may be made to avoid obscuring the purpose of this section, the abstract, and the title of this application, and such simplifications or omissions shall not be used to limit the scope of the invention.

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, one objective of this invention is to provide an air drying device for storage tanks.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: an air drying device for storage tanks, comprising a sealing member disposed within a connector; and a lifting mechanism disposed within the connector or a desiccant container, wherein the lifting mechanism is in contact with the sealing member; wherein the sealing member is movably disposed within the connector and has a closed position for blocking the communication opening and an open position for avoiding the communication opening; when the desiccant container is connected to the connector, the lifting mechanism contacts the sealing member and drives the sealing member from the closed position to the open position; when the desiccant container is separated from the connector, the sealing member returns from the open position to the closed position.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment of the air drying device for storage tanks according to the present invention, the sealing member includes a sealing plate disposed within the connector and a sealing gasket disposed at the communication opening.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the air drying device for storage tanks according to the present invention, the lifting mechanism includes a top rod disposed inside the desiccant container; the sealing plate is located above the sealing gasket, the top end of the top rod extends into the connector and is located above the sealing gasket; a plurality of mounting blocks are provided on the inner surface of the desiccant container, and the top rod is disposed on the mounting blocks.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the air drying device for storage tanks according to the present invention, a first circumferential rib and a second circumferential rib extending circumferentially are formed on the outer surface of the desiccant container. The second circumferential rib is located radially outside the first circumferential rib, and the axial height of the second circumferential rib is less than the axial height of the first circumferential rib, so that the top surface of the second circumferential rib is lower than the top surface of the first circumferential rib; the bottom surface of the connector is in close contact with the top surface of the second circumferential rib.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the air drying device for storage tanks according to the present invention, the inner diameter of the connector is D1, the inner diameter of the desiccant container is D2, the outer diameter of the sealing gasket is D3, the inner diameter of the sealing gasket is D4, and the outer diameter of the sealing plate is D5. The outer diameter D3 of the sealing gasket matches the inner diameter D1 of the connector, the inner diameter D4 of the sealing gasket is larger than the inner diameter D2 of the desiccant container, and the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate is smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the connector to form an annular ventilation space around the sealing plate. Furthermore, the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate is larger than the inner diameter D4 of the sealing gasket to form a sealing fit when the sealing plate contacts the sealing gasket.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the air drying device for storage tanks described in this invention, the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate needs to satisfy the following formula: .

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the air drying device for storage tanks described in this invention, a vacuum valve is provided at the bottom of the desiccant container.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the air drying device for storage tanks described in this invention, the inner diameter of the vacuum valve seat is D6; the flow area corresponding to the vacuum valve seat is: ,

[0014] The annular flow area formed between the connector and the sealing plate is: ,

[0015] Where S2 > S1, the outer diameter of the sealing plate must satisfy the formula: .

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the air drying device for storage tanks described in this invention, an upper filter screen cover is provided at the top of the first circumferential rib, a protective filter screen is provided at the bottom of the inner cavity of the desiccant container and above the vacuum valve, and desiccant is filled between the upper filter screen cover and the protective filter screen.

[0017] To address the shortcomings of the prior art, another objective of this invention is to provide a sealing control method for an air drying device for storage tanks.

[0018] The present invention adopts the following technical solution: a sealing control method for an air drying device for storage tanks, comprising the following steps: The connection step involves communicating the desiccant container with the connector and bringing the bottom surface of the connector into contact with the top surface of the second circumferential rib on the outer surface of the desiccant container to define the connection position of the desiccant container relative to the connector.

[0019] The opening step involves causing a push rod located inside the desiccant container to push against a sealing plate located inside the connector, causing the sealing plate to move away from the sealing gasket, thereby opening the communication opening.

[0020] The ventilation step allows gas to circulate through the annular ventilation space formed between the outer periphery of the sealing plate and the inner periphery of the connector.

[0021] The separation step separates the desiccant container from the connector to release the push rod from pushing against the sealing plate.

[0022] The closing step involves moving the sealing plate toward and into contact with the sealing gasket, thereby closing the communication opening.

[0023] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: By providing a sealing component inside the connector, this invention allows the sealing component to automatically seal the communication opening of the connector when the desiccant container is separated from the connector. This effectively prevents humid air from directly entering the ventilation system through the connector during the disassembly, replacement, or maintenance of the desiccant container, thereby improving the moisture protection capability of the air drying device for the downstream system. At the same time, when the desiccant container is connected to the connector, the sealing component can open the communication opening to ensure normal gas flow, thus balancing sealing reliability and ventilation requirements. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the air drying device for storage tanks according to the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sealing plate and sealing gasket of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the top rod of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 4 For the present invention Figure 3 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the annular ventilation space of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the vacuum valve of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the protective filter screen of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the first application scenario of the air drying device for storage tanks according to the present invention.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a second application scenario for the air drying device for storage tanks according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0035] The terminology used in this invention is that which is currently widely used in the art in consideration of the function of the invention; however, these terms may vary depending on the intent, precedent, or new technology of those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the terminology used in this specification should not be construed as simple names, but rather based on the meaning of the terms and the overall description of the invention.

[0036] Example 1

[0037] Reference Figures 1 to 3 This embodiment provides an air drying device for storage tanks, including a sealing member 100 disposed within a connector 200, and a lifting mechanism 800 disposed within the connector 200 or a desiccant container 300, the lifting mechanism 800 being in contact with the sealing member 100. The sealing member 100 is movably disposed within the connector 200 and has a closed position that blocks the communication opening K of the connector 200 and an open position that avoids the communication opening K. When the desiccant container 300 is connected to the connector 200, the lifting mechanism 800 contacts the sealing member 100 and moves the sealing member 100 from the closed position to the open position; when the desiccant container 300 is separated from the connector 200, the sealing member 100 returns to the closed position from the open position. By arranging the sealing component 100, which plays an isolating role, inside the connector 200, and by having the lifting mechanism 800, which is located inside the desiccant container 300, trigger the sealing component 100 to switch positions during the assembly process, the connector 200 can remain closed after the container is removed, thereby reducing the risk of external humid air flowing back into the storage tank system along the ventilation duct.

[0038] In this embodiment, the connector 200 can be understood as an upper interface component fixedly connected to the tank's breathing system, piping system, or valve group system. The connecting opening K is preferably located on the side of the connector 200 facing the desiccant container 300. The desiccant container 300 can be understood as a detachable cavity for filling with silica gel, molecular sieves, activated alumina, or other moisture-absorbing particles. In the container's operating state, outside air passes sequentially through the desiccant bed inside the desiccant container 300 and the connector 200 under pressure differential, entering the tank and simultaneously completing dehumidification. In the container's maintenance state, the desiccant container 300 can be detached from the connector 200, and the sealing component 100 inside the connector 200 returns to its closed position to prevent outside air from entering the tank.

[0039] In this embodiment, the closed position refers to the position where the sealing member 100 is positioned to block or close the connecting opening K; the open position refers to the position where the sealing member 100 is positioned to avoid the connecting opening K, allowing gas to flow through the connecting opening K. The specific movement of the sealing member 100 from the closed position to the open position is not limited; it can be a movement along the axial direction of the connector 200, a swinging motion around a preset axis, or a sliding motion along a guide direction, as long as it can achieve the closing and opening of the connecting opening K.

[0040] This embodiment lists three specific structures of the sealing member 100 that can be selected. In the first structure, the sealing member 100 can adopt a sealing plate 101 structure that moves axially along the connector 200. When not held by external force, the sealing plate 101 is located in a closed position to block the communication opening K. After the container is assembled, it is moved to the open position by the lifting mechanism 800. In the second structure, the sealing member 100 can adopt a flap valve structure that swings around a hinge axis. The flap is located in a closed position under the action of gravity or bias force. During the assembly of the desiccant container 300, it is triggered by the lifting mechanism 800 and swings to the open position. In the third structure, the sealing member 100 can also adopt a sliding plate structure that slides along a guide groove. The sliding plate is located in a closed position under the action of a reset member to block the communication opening K. When the container is moved upward for installation, it is driven to the open position by a toggle member, cam member, or other trigger member on the lifting mechanism 800. Although the three structures described above have different modes of motion, they can all achieve the effect of switching the sealing component 100 between the closed position and the open position.

[0041] Furthermore, the connection between the desiccant container 300 and the connector 200 can be achieved in various ways. For example, a clamp-type connection structure can be used, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly of the container through a snap-fit ​​or lever clamp; a threaded connection structure can be used, where the container is screwed into the connector 200 to achieve sealing and positioning; or a bayonet-type connection structure can be used, where insertion and rotation limit positioning achieves quick positioning. Regardless of the connection method used, as long as the lifting mechanism 800 can contact the sealing member 100 and move it to the open position when the container and connector 200 are connected, and the sealing member 100 can return to the closed position when the container and connector 200 are separated, the purpose of this invention to suppress the intrusion of humid air can be achieved. Thus, this embodiment, by moving the sealing logic forward to the inside of the connector 200, allows the device to maintain good moisture-proof continuity even during maintenance.

[0042] In Example 1, the shape of the connecting opening K is not limited to a circle. For the cylindrical desiccant container 300, the connecting opening K is preferably a circular opening coaxially arranged with the connector 200; for special containers with an elliptical, racetrack-shaped, or polygonal cross-section, the connecting opening K can also be designed as a corresponding irregular opening, and the sealing member 100 can be set as a matching irregular sealing member. As long as the sealing member 100 can be in a closed position when the container is separated from the connector 200 and switch to an open position when the container is connected to the connector 200, the implementation of the present invention will not be affected.

[0043] Example 2

[0044] Reference Figure 3 Based on Embodiment 1, this embodiment further defines the sealing member 100. The sealing member 100 includes a sealing plate 101 and a sealing gasket 102; wherein, the sealing plate 101 is disposed within the connector 200, the sealing gasket 102 is disposed at the communication opening K, and the lifting mechanism 800 is used to drive the sealing plate 101 to move toward or away from the sealing gasket 102. Through the surface contact or annular contact between the sealing plate 101 and the sealing gasket 102, a relatively reliable static sealing interface can be formed at the communication opening K; and through the driving of the lifting mechanism 800, the sealing plate 101 smoothly switches between the open state and the closed state, thereby taking into account both ventilation and sealing requirements.

[0045] In this embodiment, the sealing plate 101 is preferably disposed in the middle or lower part of the inner cavity of the connector 200, specifically directly above the communication opening K. When the sealing plate 101 moves toward the sealing gasket 102, the lower surface of the sealing plate 101 abuts against the upper surface of the sealing gasket 102, forming a seal against the communication opening K; when the sealing plate 101 moves away from the sealing gasket 102, a circumferentially continuous or intermittently distributed flow gap is formed between the two, allowing outside air to pass through the sealing plate 101. The sealing plate 101 can be made of materials such as stainless steel, aluminum alloy, or corrosion-resistant engineering plastics, preferably balancing quality, corrosion resistance, and processing cost. The sealing gasket 102 can be made of materials such as nitrile rubber, fluororubber, silicone rubber, or polytetrafluoroethylene-coated elastomer to improve media resistance and long-term compression resilience.

[0046] This embodiment further provides five feasible lifting mechanism forms. The first form is a direct lifting type, in which the lifting mechanism 800 includes a lifting assembly consisting of a top rod 801 on the desiccant container 300, a guide sleeve, or a mounting block. When the container is installed, the top rod 801 directly pushes the sealing plate 101 upward. The second form is a lever transmission type, in which the lifting mechanism 800 may include a lever and a force transmission arm disposed on the side of the connector 200. When the container is assembled, the lever is pushed first, and then the sealing plate 101 is lifted via the lever structure. The third form is a cam-guided type, in which the lifting mechanism 800 may include a sloping cam, a slider, or a roller. When the container moves upward relative to the connector 200, the sloping structure converts the axial displacement into the lifting displacement of the sealing plate 101. The fourth form is an electrically telescopic type, in which an electrically telescopic rod is directly installed on the top of the inner surface of the connector 200 and the sealing plate 101. By controlling the electrically telescopic rod, the sealing plate 101 is directly driven to make tight contact or separate from the sealing gasket 102. The fifth type is motor-driven. By installing a motor in the connector 200, installing a reel through the motor output shaft, and connecting the sealing plate 101 through a rope on the reel, the sealing plate 101 can be driven by the motor to come into close contact with or separate from the sealing gasket 102.

[0047] Furthermore, the arrangement of the sealing gasket 102 can be flexibly varied. Firstly, the sealing gasket 102 can be embedded in the annular groove formed at the lower end of the connector 200 to achieve a better limiting effect. Secondly, the sealing gasket 102 can be directly bonded, heat-pressed, or coated to the edge of the connecting opening K. Thirdly, the sealing gasket 102 can be placed on a replaceable pressure ring for subsequent maintenance and replacement. Through these arrangements, the device can maintain relatively stable sealing performance in application scenarios with a high number of container disassembly and assembly cycles.

[0048] Example 3

[0049] Reference Figure 3 Based on Embodiment 2, this embodiment further specifies the lifting mechanism 800. The lifting mechanism 800 includes a top rod 801, which is disposed within the desiccant container 300. The sealing plate 101 is located above the sealing gasket 102, and the top end of the top rod 801 extends into the connector 200 and is located above the sealing gasket 102. A plurality of mounting blocks 301 are provided on the inner surface of the desiccant container 300, and the top rod 801 is disposed on the mounting blocks 301. Through this arrangement, during the assembly process of the container into the connector 200, the top rod 801 can directly transmit the assembly displacement from the container to the sealing plate 101, causing the sealing plate 101 to detach from the sealing gasket 102, thereby creating a flow-through state.

[0050] Specifically, the mounting blocks 301 can be evenly distributed along the inner circumferential surface of the desiccant container 300, preferably three, four, six, or other quantities suitable for forming stable support. Multiple mounting blocks 301 collectively provide an installation reference for the top rod 801, ensuring the upper end of the top rod 801 remains relatively stable during axial movement of the container and preventing significant swaying of the top rod 801. The mounting blocks 301 can be integrally stamped and welded to the container body, or connected to the container wall using screws, riveting, snap-fit, or other methods. The top rod 801 can be a single integral rod or a combined rod consisting of a central connecting seat and several branch rods; its top end can have different structures such as a flat top, hemispherical top, roller top, or cap top to improve the contact method with the sealing plate 101.

[0051] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the top ends of the push rods 801 form a substantially coplanar force-bearing area. This way, when the container is assembled, multiple push rods 801 can simultaneously abut against the lower surface of the sealing plate 101, thereby reducing the possibility of the sealing plate 101 tilting and opening. If the lower surface of the sealing plate 101 is provided with a support platform, recess, or reinforcing rib that mates with the push rods 801, the contact stability can be further improved. For containers that need to hold a large amount of desiccant, the push rods 801 can be arranged as close to the perimeter of the container as possible to reduce the space occupied by the central desiccant filling area.

[0052] To improve service life, a wear-resistant bushing, an elastic buffer pad, or a replaceable connector can be provided between the push rod 801 and the mounting block 301 in this embodiment. For example, an insertion hole can be formed on the mounting block 301, into which the lower end of the push rod 801 is inserted and positioned by an elastic retaining ring; alternatively, a metal sleeve can be installed on the mounting block 301, allowing the push rod 801 to obtain more stable guidance after passing through the sleeve; furthermore, an elastic washer can be configured on the mounting block 301 to reduce the impact of the push rod 801 on the sealing plate 101 when the container is assembled into place. With the above structure, this embodiment can ensure the lifting effect while also taking into account assembly stability and component durability.

[0053] Example 4

[0054] Reference Figure 4 Based on Example 3, this example further defines the positioning and sealing auxiliary structure on the outer surface of the desiccant container 300. A first circumferential rib 302 and a second circumferential rib 303 extending circumferentially are formed on the outer surface of the desiccant container 300. The second circumferential rib 303 is located radially outside the first circumferential rib 302, and the axial height of the second circumferential rib 303 is less than the axial height of the first circumferential rib 302, so that the top surface of the second circumferential rib 303 is lower than the top surface of the first circumferential rib 302; the bottom surface of the connector 200 is in close contact with the top surface of the second circumferential rib 303. By providing two circumferential ribs of different heights, a relatively clear stepped positioning relationship can be formed between the container and the connector 200.

[0055] The first circumferential rib 302 primarily serves to install, reinforce, and limit the movement of other components, while the second circumferential rib 303 primarily serves to position the connector 200 against its bottom surface. Because the second circumferential rib 303 is located radially outside the first circumferential rib 302, and its top surface is lower than that of the first circumferential rib 302, when the connector 200 mates with the desiccant container 300, the bottom surface of the connector 200 is more likely to first land on the top surface of the second circumferential rib 303, thus limiting the container's upward movement. This results in better repeatability of the lifting stroke of the push rod 801 against the sealing plate 101, the separation gap between the sealing plate 101 and the sealing gasket 102, and the overall assembly height of the container, thus improving product consistency.

[0056] In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shapes of the first circumferential rib 302 and the second circumferential rib 303 can be flexibly selected. For example, the first circumferential rib 302 can be a rectangular cross-section to accommodate the upper filter cover 304 or other upper components; the second circumferential rib 303 can be a trapezoidal cross-section to form a clearer stress boundary when in contact with the connector 200; alternatively, one of the circumferential ribs can be designed as a rounded transition cross-section to reduce stress concentration. For metal containers, the two circumferential ribs can be directly formed through processes such as spinning, rolling, stamping, and stretching; for engineering plastic containers, they can be integrally formed through injection molding or blow molding.

[0057] Furthermore, a planar sealing area can be provided on the top surface of the second circumferential rib 303, or a thin sealing ring, a covering layer, or a wear-resistant sealing material can be arranged on this top surface to improve the contact stability with the bottom surface of the connector 200. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the connector 200 can also form a corresponding annular pressing surface. After the pressing surface contacts the top surface of the second circumferential rib 303, it not only plays a role in positioning the container but also forms an auxiliary seal for the upper opening area of ​​the container. Thus, this embodiment not only improves the assembly positioning accuracy through the stepped structure but also provides a stable geometric reference for controlling the lifting stroke of the sealing plate 101.

[0058] Example 5

[0059] Reference Figure 5Based on Example 4, this example further defines the dimensional fit between the connector 200, desiccant container 300, sealing gasket 102, and sealing plate 101. The inner diameter of the connector 200 is D1, the inner diameter of the desiccant container 300 is D2, the outer diameter of the sealing gasket 102 is D3, the inner diameter of the sealing gasket 102 is D4, and the outer diameter of the sealing plate 101 is D5. The outer diameter D3 of the sealing gasket 102 matches the inner diameter D1 of the connector 200. The inner diameter D4 of the sealing gasket 102 is larger than the inner diameter D2 of the desiccant container 300. The outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate 101 is smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the connector 200, so that an annular ventilation space O is formed around the outer periphery of the sealing plate 101. Furthermore, the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate 101 is larger than the inner diameter D4 of the sealing gasket 102, so that a sealing fit is formed when the sealing plate 101 contacts the sealing gasket 102.

[0060] The aforementioned dimensional relationships serve several purposes. First, the coordination of D3 and D1 ensures that the sealing gasket 102 obtains a stable radial mounting reference within the connector 200, reducing the risk of movement, folding, or dislocation of the sealing gasket 102 during long-term use. Second, D4 being greater than D2 not only ensures that the sealing gasket 102 itself does not become a major constriction in the airflow channel, avoiding additional throttling at the sealing gasket 102 location, but also ensures that the push rod 801 and the sealing gasket 102 are not misaligned, eliminating the need for a through hole in the sealing gasket 102 to match the push rod 801, thus reducing the processing complexity of the sealing gasket 102. Third, D5 being less than D1 ensures that after the sealing plate 101 is opened, an annular ventilation space O is formed between its outer periphery and the inner periphery of the connector 200. Fourth, D5 being greater than D4 also ensures that when the sealing plate 101 falls back, it can cross the inner edge of the sealing gasket 102, forming an effective overlap and seal with the sealing gasket 102.

[0061] To facilitate understanding, this embodiment can be illustrated by the following example: If the inner diameter D1 of the connector 200 is 100mm and the inner diameter D2 of the desiccant container 300 is 70mm, then the sealing gasket 102 can be designed with an outer diameter D3 close to 100mm and an inner diameter D4 of approximately 75mm, and the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate 101 is approximately 85mm. With this size combination, the sealing plate 101 can form a sufficient annular flow area on its outer periphery when open, while pressing down on the inner edge of the sealing gasket 102 when closed, thus balancing flow and sealing.

[0062] Example 6

[0063] Reference Figure 5 Based on Example 5, this example further limits the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate 101 to satisfy the following formula: , Where D3 is the outer diameter of the sealing gasket 102, and D4 is the inner diameter of the sealing gasket 102, therefore, This indicates the diameter value corresponding to the middle of the annular sealing area of ​​the sealing gasket 102. Limiting the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate 101 to a value greater than this ensures that the sealing plate 101 has sufficient effective coverage width when in contact with the sealing gasket 102, thereby improving the sealing reliability of the communication opening K in the closed state.

[0064] Furthermore, the limitations of this formula in this embodiment also take into account the motion characteristics of the sealing plate 101 during the actual falling process. Since the sealing plate 101 is disposed within the connector 200, and no dedicated radial guiding structure or central limiting structure is provided for the sealing plate 101 during its fall, the sealing plate 101 may undergo a certain radial translation within the inner diameter range of the connector 200, in addition to moving in the vertical direction. That is to say, when the sealing plate 101 falls back to the sealing gasket 102, its center position is not always strictly coincident with the center position of the connector 200, but rather there is a certain offset.

[0065] In the worst-case scenario, the sealing plate 101 experiences maximum radial displacement, with one edge contacting the inner surface of the connector 200. At this point, the sealing plate 101 has shifted to the limit position allowed within the connector 200. If the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate 101 is too small, under this limit offset state, the other edge of the sealing plate 101 may exit the effective sealing area of ​​the sealing gasket 102, resulting in insufficient overlap width between the sealing plate 101 and the sealing gasket 102, or even partial loss of seal. To avoid this situation, this embodiment limits... This ensures that even when the sealing plate 101 undergoes maximum permissible radial displacement within the connector 200, the sealing plate 101 remains within the effective sealing area of ​​the sealing gasket 102 on the side away from the contact side, thereby guaranteeing that there is still sufficient sealing overlap between the sealing plate 101 and the sealing gasket 102, and achieving reliable closure of the communication opening K.

[0066] To facilitate understanding of the above dimensional relationships, the following example data will be used for illustration. For instance, suppose the inner diameter D1 of the connector 200 is 100mm, the outer diameter D3 of the sealing gasket 102 is 100mm, and the inner diameter D4 of the sealing gasket 102 is 75mm. Then, the diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of the annular sealing area of ​​the sealing gasket 102 is... In this case, if the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate 101 is 90mm, then D5 > 87.5mm, and simultaneously satisfies D5 < D1 and D5 > D4. At this time, when the sealing plate 101 experiences its maximum permissible radial offset within the connector 200, and one edge of the sealing plate 101 contacts the inner surface of the connector 200, the other edge of the sealing plate 101 remains 40mm from the center of the connector 200. Since the inner radius of the sealing gasket 102 is 37.5mm, the sealing plate 101 can still cover the effective sealing area of ​​the sealing gasket 102 on the side away from the contact, maintaining a certain overlap width, thus ensuring a reliable seal between the sealing plate 101 and the sealing gasket 102. Conversely, if D5 is 85mm, although D5 is still greater than D4, it is less than 87.5mm. When the sealing plate 101 experiences a large radial offset, its edge away from the contact side may exit the effective sealing area of ​​the sealing gasket 102, resulting in insufficient local overlap and affecting the sealing reliability of the connecting opening K. Therefore, limiting D5 to a diameter greater than the diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of the annular sealing area of ​​the gasket 102 helps to maintain an effective seal even in the presence of radial offset.

[0067] Example 7

[0068] Reference Figure 6 Based on Example 6, this example further specifies that a vacuum valve 400 is provided at the bottom of the desiccant container 300. The function of the vacuum valve 400 is to allow outside air to enter the desiccant container 300 from the bottom when the storage tank system generates a suction demand and the pressure difference reaches a set opening condition. After passing through the desiccant bed, the air is output to the downstream system via the connector 200. Arranging the vacuum valve 400 at the bottom of the desiccant container 300 facilitates the formation of an upward air intake path, allowing air to more fully penetrate the desiccant layer inside the container and improving dehumidification efficiency.

[0069] In this embodiment, the vacuum valve 400 is preferably located in the central region of the bottom of the container so that the air entering from the valve port can be more easily and evenly diffused within the container's cross-sectional area. By providing the vacuum valve 400 at the bottom of the container, this embodiment enables the desiccant container 300 to not only have an upper self-sealing capability but also a bottom air intake control capability adapted to the tank's air intake conditions.

[0070] Example 8

[0071] Reference Figure 6 Based on Example 7, this example further incorporates a linked design between the area relationship of the annular flow channel within the vacuum valve 400 and the connector 200. The inner diameter of the vacuum valve 400 seat is D6; the corresponding flow area of ​​the vacuum valve 400 seat is: , The annular flow area formed between the connector 200 and the sealing plate 101 is: , Where S2 > S1, the outer diameter of the sealing plate 101 must satisfy the formula: .

[0072] Through the above relationship, the annular flow channel formed between the connector 200 and the sealing plate 101 after the sealing plate 101 is opened will not become the main throttling part in the entire airflow path.

[0073] If S2 is not greater than S1, even if the valve seat of the bottom vacuum valve 400 has sufficient flow capacity, the gas may still experience additional resistance when entering the area of ​​the connector 200 due to the narrow annular channel, thus affecting the overall suction performance of the machine. Therefore, this embodiment requires S2 to be greater than S1, ensuring that the passable area of ​​the annular flow channel is at least higher than the passable area of ​​the valve seat of the vacuum valve 400, thus ensuring that the main pressure drop of the system does not concentrate in the upper channel on the outer periphery of the sealing plate 101. This is derived from S2 > S1. This also provides constraints for selecting the outer diameter of the sealing plate 101, which is convenient for engineering design.

[0074] For example, given a fixed inner diameter D1 for connector 200 and a fixed inner diameter D6 for vacuum valve seat 400 based on the suction conditions, the designer can select the upper limit of D5 according to the above formula. When the system requires a higher suction volume, D1 can be appropriately increased or D5 decreased to expand the upper annular flow area; at the same time, it is still necessary to combine the above formula with the above formula. The requirement is to ensure the sealing effect of the sealing plate 101 when closed. Therefore, the selection of D5 is no longer isolated, but is simultaneously constrained by both sealing and flow requirements, reflecting the overall synergy in the structural design of this invention.

[0075] To facilitate understanding of the above flow area relationship, the following example data will be used for illustration. For instance, suppose the inner diameter D1 of connector 200 is 100mm and the inner diameter D6 of vacuum valve 400 seat is 40mm. Then the flow area corresponding to vacuum valve 400 seat... If the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate 101 is 90mm, then the annular flow area formed between the connector 200 and the sealing plate 101... At this point, S2 > S1. Therefore, under this size combination, after the sealing plate 101 is opened, the area of ​​the annular flow channel formed on its outer periphery is greater than the area of ​​the vacuum valve 400 seat. The upper annular channel will not become the main throttling part in the entire air intake path, which helps reduce additional flow resistance. Conversely, if D5 is 95mm, then S2 = π × (100² - 95²) / 4 ≈ 766.99mm². In this case, S2 < S1, indicating that the annular flow channel formed between the connector 200 and the sealing plate 101 will be smaller than the flow capacity of the vacuum valve 400 seat. This may cause a large local resistance when the gas passes through the upper area of ​​the connector 200, which is not conducive to the stable realization of the tank system's air intake performance. Therefore, by satisfying the size relationship corresponding to S2 > S1, the outer diameter of the sealing plate 101 can be selected to simultaneously consider both sealing and flow requirements.

[0076] Example 9

[0077] Reference Figure 7 Based on Example 8, this example further specifies that: an upper filter cover 304 is provided at the top of the first circumferential rib 302; a protective filter 305 is provided at the bottom of the inner cavity of the desiccant container 300 and above the vacuum valve 400; desiccant is filled between the upper filter cover 304 and the protective filter 305; and a protrusion is provided at the top of the inner cavity of the connector 200. Through the cooperation of the upper filter cover 304 and the protective filter 305, the desiccant particles in the container can be confined and protected from the top and bottom, respectively, reducing particle migration, powder escape after breakage, and interference of particles with valves and seals. The protrusion at the top of the inner cavity of the connector 200 serves as a limiting function, preventing the sealing plate 101 from blocking the air outlet of the connector 200 when it moves.

[0078] Specifically, the upper filter cover 304 can be located on top of the first circumferential rib 302 to limit the floating or agitation of the upper desiccant inside the container, preventing a large amount of particles from impacting the components inside the connector 200 under conditions of device inversion or vibration. The upper filter cover 304 can be made of various forms such as perforated metal plates, woven mesh, expanded mesh, or plastic skeleton mesh; its aperture or mesh size can be determined according to the desiccant particle size to balance flow capacity and blocking effect. The protective filter 305 is located above the vacuum valve 400 and is preferably used to block desiccant particles from moving towards the vacuum valve 400, preventing particles from accumulating near the valve seat and affecting the opening and closing of the vacuum valve 400.

[0079] Furthermore, the upper filter cover 304 can be placed on top of the first circumferential rib 302. A pressure block 802 can be provided on the top rod 801. The bottom end of the top rod 801 passes through the upper filter cover 304 and connects to the mounting block 301. After the top rod 801 is connected to the mounting block 301, the pressure block 802 presses the upper filter cover 304 tightly against the top of the first circumferential rib 302, thereby fixing the upper filter cover 304. This structure can prevent the upper filter cover 304 from tilting, shifting, or dislodging during airflow impact, device vibration, or desiccant agitation. At the same time, the clamping relationship formed by the top rod 801 and the pressure block 802 can improve the stability of the upper filter cover 304's installation position.

[0080] In addition, since the bottom surface of the connector 200 is in close contact with the top surface of the second circumferential rib 303, the top surface of the second circumferential rib 303 can serve as an axial positioning reference when the desiccant container 300 and the connector 200 are assembled. Therefore, in order to avoid interference between the upper filter cover 304 and the pressure block 802 and the sealing gasket 102 in the assembled state, and to ensure that the push rod 801 can continue to push the sealing plate 101 upward, the height between the sealing gasket 102 and the bottom surface of the connector 200 is greater than the height difference between the first circumferential rib 302 and the second circumferential rib 303, the thickness of the upper filter cover 304, and the thickness of the pressure block 802.

[0081] Example 10

[0082] Reference Figures 1-9 This embodiment provides a sealing control method for an air drying device for storage tanks, including the following steps: connection step, opening step, ventilation step, separation step, and sealing step. In the connection step, the desiccant container 300 is connected to the connector 200, and the bottom surface of the connector 200 contacts the top surface of the second circumferential rib 303 on the outer surface of the desiccant container 300 to define the connection position of the desiccant container 300 relative to the connector 200. In the opening step, the push rod 801 disposed in the desiccant container 300 pushes the sealing plate 101 disposed in the connector 200 to move the sealing plate 101 away from the sealing gasket 102 disposed at the communication opening K of the connector 200, thereby opening the communication opening K. In the ventilation step, gas flows through the annular ventilation space O formed between the outer periphery of the sealing plate 101 and the inner periphery of the connector 200. In the separation step, the desiccant container 300 is separated from the connector 200 to release the push rod 801 from pushing the sealing plate 101. In the closing step, the sealing plate 101 moves toward the sealing gasket 102 and contacts the sealing gasket 102, thereby closing the communication opening K.

[0083] In practice, the connection process can employ various assembly methods. Firstly, a clamp-type connection can be used, where the operator aligns the upper end of the container with the connector 200 and then locks them together using external clamps or snap-fits. Secondly, a threaded connection can be used, where the operator rotates the container to gradually move it upwards and ultimately presses it against the second circumferential rib 303 for positioning. Thirdly, a snap-fit ​​connection can be used, where the operator first inserts the connector and then rotates it into place. Under these different connection methods, as long as the container reaches the predetermined connection position, the push rod 801 can push the sealing plate 101 upwards to achieve the opening step.

[0084] During the ventilation step, outside air preferably enters from the bottom of the container through the vacuum valve 400, passes through the protective filter 305, the desiccant layer, and the upper filter cover 304, and then enters the connector 200 through the connecting opening K and the annular ventilation space O, and is then delivered to the downstream system. When the system no longer needs to draw air or the desiccant needs to be replaced, the operator proceeds to the separation step, disconnecting the container from the connector 200. As the container moves down or is unscrewed, the push rod 801 no longer provides supporting force to the sealing plate 101, and the sealing plate 101 falls back under its own weight, pressing against the sealing gasket 102 during the sealing step, thus resealing the connecting opening K. In this way, even when the container has been removed, the connector 200 can remain relatively closed, which helps reduce the risk of humid air intrusion.

[0085] Furthermore, the method of this embodiment is applicable to both manual desiccant container replacement scenarios and semi-automatic or automatic maintenance scenarios. For example, during manual maintenance, the operator can follow the sequence of "stop confirmation—loosen connection—remove container—replace desiccant—reassemble," with the sealing plate 101 automatically closing and opening during container removal and reassembly. During semi-automatic maintenance, a lifting platform or robotic arm can assist in container relocation and assembly, with the interaction between the top rod 801 and the sealing plate 101 still performed according to the above steps. In an automatic maintenance system, container replacement can also be performed through program control, without altering the technical essence of the method steps. Thus, the method of this embodiment can correspond one-to-one with the aforementioned device embodiments, jointly realizing the self-sealing function of the air drying device in maintenance mode.

[0086] Example 11

[0087] Reference Figure 8 This embodiment illustrates the application of the air drying device for storage tanks of the present invention in a storage tank breathing system. The system includes a desiccant container 300, a connector 200, a breather valve 500, a storage tank 600, and a pipe connecting the breather valve 500 and the storage tank 600. The desiccant container 300 is connected to the connector 200, the connector 200 is connected to the air inlet pipe of the breather valve 500, and the air outlet of the breather valve 500 is connected to the storage tank 600 via the pipe.

[0088] When the storage tank 600 is drawing in air, outside air first enters the desiccant container 300 and comes into contact with the desiccant inside for dehumidification. Subsequently, the dehumidified air enters the connector 200 from the desiccant container 300, then enters the air inlet pipe of the breather valve 500, and finally enters the breather valve 500. Since the air inlet of the breather valve 500 is connected to the storage tank 600 through a pipe, outside air ultimately enters the storage tank 600 sequentially through the desiccant container 300, connector 200, breather valve 500, and pipe, thereby achieving air drying during the air drawing process of the storage tank 600.

[0089] When the storage tank 600 exhales, the gas inside the storage tank 600 enters the breather valve 500 through a pipe connected to the storage tank 600, and is then discharged to the outside through the outlet pipe of the breather valve 500. That is, during the exhalation process, the gas inside the storage tank 600 flows out sequentially through the pipe, the breather valve 500, and the outlet pipe of the breather valve 500, without needing to pass through the desiccant container 300. Therefore, Figure 8 The structure shown creates a one-way dehumidification scenario where inhaled air passes through an air drying device and exhaled air is directly discharged through a breathing valve. This allows the supplementary air entering the storage tank 600 to be dried, while the gas discharged from the storage tank 600 is directly discharged through the breathing valve 500.

[0090] In this application scenario, when the desiccant container 300 needs to be disassembled for maintenance, the sealing component 100 installed in the connector 200 can seal the communication opening K of the connector 200, thereby reducing the possibility that external humid air will enter the storage tank 600 along the connector 200, the breather valve 500 and the pipeline during maintenance.

[0091] Example 12

[0092] Reference Figure 9 This embodiment illustrates the application of the air drying device for storage tanks of the present invention in another storage tank breathing system. The system includes a desiccant container 300, a connector 200, a vacuum relief valve 700, a breathing valve 500, a storage tank 600, a long pipe, and a three-way connector. The desiccant container 300 is connected to the connector 200, which is connected to the vacuum relief valve 700 via the long pipe. The three-way connector is connected to the vacuum relief valve 700, the breathing valve 500, and the storage tank 600, respectively.

[0093] When the storage tank 600 is drawing in air, outside air first enters the desiccant container 300 and comes into contact with the desiccant inside for dehumidification. Subsequently, the dehumidified air enters the connector 200 from the desiccant container 300, then enters the long pipe through the connector 200, and finally enters the vacuum relief valve 700. Since the vacuum relief valve 700 is connected to the storage tank 600 through a three-way pipe, outside air ultimately enters the storage tank 600 sequentially through the desiccant container 300, connector 200, long pipe, vacuum relief valve 700, and three-way pipe, thereby achieving air drying during the air drawing process of the storage tank 600.

[0094] When the storage tank 600 exhales, the gas inside the storage tank 600 flows through the three-way pipe to the breather valve 500, and is directly discharged to the outside through the outlet of the breather valve 500. That is, during exhalation, the gas inside the storage tank 600 flows out sequentially through the three-way pipe and the outlet of the breather valve 500, without needing to pass through the vacuum relief valve 700, the long pipe, the connector 200, and the desiccant container 300. Therefore, Figure 9 The structure shown forms a working mode in which inhaled air enters the storage tank 600 through the air drying device and vacuum relief valve 700, and exhaled air is directly discharged through the breathing valve 500.

[0095] Furthermore, when the vacuum relief valve 700 is damaged, malfunctions, or cannot be opened normally, the air inlet of the breather valve 500 can be used as an emergency air inlet. In this case, outside air can directly enter the breather valve 500 through its air inlet and then enter the storage tank 600 via the three-way pipe, thus ensuring that the storage tank 600 still has the ability to breathe even if the vacuum relief valve 700 fails. Compared to the normal air intake path, this emergency air intake path does not require passing through the desiccant container 300, connector 200, and vacuum relief valve 700, and is therefore mainly used to ensure the continuity of the breathing function of the storage tank 600 under abnormal operating conditions.

[0096] In this application scenario, when the desiccant container 300 is detached from the connector 200, the sealing member 100 disposed in the connector 200 can seal the communication opening K of the connector 200, thereby reducing the possibility of humid air entering the long pipe and downstream system from the connector 200 side.

[0097] Finally, it should be noted that the methods and devices described in detail above are merely embodiments, and those skilled in the art can modify these embodiments in different ways as long as they do not depart from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air drying device for storage tanks, characterized in that: include, A sealing member (100) is disposed within the connector (200); A lifting mechanism (800) is disposed in the connector (200) or the desiccant container (300), and the lifting mechanism (800) is in contact with the sealing member (100); The sealing member (100) is movably disposed within the connector (200) and has a closed position that blocks the communication opening and an open position that avoids the communication opening. When the desiccant container (300) is connected to the connector (200), the lifting mechanism (800) contacts the sealing member (100) and drives the sealing member (100) to move from the closed position to the open position. When the desiccant container (300) is separated from the connector (200), the sealing member (100) is reset from the open position to the closed position. In the working state, outside air enters the storage tank through the desiccant container (300) and the connector (200) in sequence, and dehumidification is completed at the same time; in the maintenance state, the desiccant container (300) is separated from the connector (200), and the sealing component (100) inside the connector (200) is reset to the closed position to prevent outside air from entering the storage tank; The sealing member (100) includes, A sealing plate (101) is disposed within the connector (200); A sealing gasket (102) is disposed at the communicating opening; The lifting mechanism (800) includes, Top rod (801), which is disposed inside the desiccant container (300); The sealing plate (101) is located above the sealing gasket (102), and the top end of the top rod (801) extends into the connector (200) and is located above the sealing gasket (102).

2. The air drying device for storage tanks as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The inner surface of the desiccant container (300) is provided with a plurality of mounting blocks (301), and the top rod (801) is disposed on the mounting blocks (301).

3. The air drying device for storage tanks as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A first circumferential rib (302) and a second circumferential rib (303) extending in the circumferential direction are formed on the outer surface of the desiccant container (300). The second circumferential rib (303) is located radially outside the first circumferential rib (302), and the axial height of the second circumferential rib (303) is less than the axial height of the first circumferential rib (302), so that the top surface of the second circumferential rib (303) is lower than the top surface of the first circumferential rib (302). The bottom surface of the connector (200) is in close contact with the top surface of the second circumferential rib (303).

4. The air drying device for storage tanks as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The inner diameter of the connector (200) is D1, the inner diameter of the desiccant container (300) is D2, the outer diameter of the sealing gasket (102) is D3, the inner diameter of the sealing gasket (102) is D4, and the outer diameter of the sealing plate (101) is D5. Wherein, the outer diameter D3 of the sealing gasket (102) matches the inner diameter D1 of the connector (200), the inner diameter D4 of the sealing gasket (102) is larger than the inner diameter D2 of the desiccant container (300), the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate (101) is smaller than the inner diameter D1 of the connector (200) so that an annular ventilation space is formed on the outer periphery of the sealing plate (101), and the outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate (101) is larger than the inner diameter D4 of the sealing gasket (102) so that a sealing fit is formed when the sealing plate (101) and the sealing gasket (102) come into contact.

5. The air drying device for storage tanks as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The outer diameter D5 of the sealing plate (101) needs to satisfy the following formula: 。 6. The air drying device for storage tanks as described in claim 4, characterized in that: A vacuum valve (400) is provided at the bottom of the desiccant container (300).

7. The air drying device for storage tanks as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The inner diameter of the valve seat of the vacuum valve (400) is D6; The flow area corresponding to the valve seat of the vacuum valve (400) is: ， The annular flow area formed between the connector (200) and the sealing plate (101) is: ， Where S2 > S1, the outer diameter of the sealing plate (101) must satisfy the formula: 。 8. The air drying apparatus for storage tanks as described in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The top of the first circumferential rib (302) is provided with an upper filter cover (304), and a protective filter (305) is provided at the bottom of the inner cavity of the desiccant container (300) and above the vacuum valve (400). Desiccant is filled between the upper filter cover (304) and the protective filter (305).

9. A sealing control method for an air drying device for a storage tank, characterized in that: The air drying apparatus for storage tanks as described in any one of claims 3 to 8 further includes the following steps: The connection step involves communicating the desiccant container (300) with the connector (200) and bringing the bottom surface of the connector (200) into contact with the top surface of the second circumferential rib (303) on the outer surface of the desiccant container (300) to define the connection position of the desiccant container (300) relative to the connector (200). In the opening step, the push rod (801) located in the desiccant container (300) pushes the sealing plate (101) located in the connector (200) to move the sealing plate (101) away from the sealing gasket (102), thereby opening the communication opening; The ventilation step allows gas to circulate through the annular ventilation space formed between the outer periphery of the sealing plate (101) and the inner periphery of the connector (200); The separation step separates the desiccant container (300) from the connector (200) to release the push rod (801) from the sealing plate (101); The closing step involves moving the sealing plate (101) toward the sealing gasket (102) and bringing it into contact with the sealing gasket (102), thereby closing the communication opening.

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