Device comprising a sealing member and method comprising a sealing member

Abstract

The present application relates to a device comprising a sealing member and a method comprising a sealing member. The device comprises a first wall comprising a first orifice, a first sealing member, a second wall comprising a second orifice, a second sealing member, and an interstitial space between the first wall and the second wall. In a sealed configuration, the first sealing member extends across the first orifice and the second sealing member extends across the second orifice. In a vented configuration, the first sealing member and the second sealing member do not extend across the respective orifices, a channel is defined between the first orifice and the second orifice, and an interior of the channel is fluidically isolated from the interstitial space. The method comprises rupturing a portion of the first sealing member of the device, forming a channel between the first orifice and the second orifice to fluidically isolate an interior of the channel from the interstitial space, and rupturing the second sealing member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to apparatuses including sealing elements and methods including sealing elements. Background Technology

[0002] When storing fluids that can build up pressure within the container, insulated containers utilize pressure relief devices. Insulated containers typically employ inner and outer walls separated by an insulating gap. Conventional pressure relief devices physically connect the inner and outer walls via an insulating gap, which can also be described as a bridging gap. Bridging gaps prevent storage fluids such as gases and / or liquids from entering the gap. Fluid entering the gap can degrade the container's insulation performance and potentially cause dangerous mixing of fluid and air. However, bridging gaps also reduce the insulation performance of the area surrounding a conventional pressure relief device. The physical structure extending from the inner wall to the outer wall provides a path for conductive heat transfer between the inner and outer walls. Furthermore, conventional pressure relief devices often require additional insulation and generate problems such as frost formation. Therefore, a device is needed to minimize heat transfer between the inner and outer walls and prevent fluid from entering the insulating gap between the walls. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An apparatus including a sealing member and a method including a sealing member are disclosed. In some examples, the apparatus includes a first wall, a first sealing member, a second wall, and a second sealing member. The first wall defines a first orifice. The second wall is arranged to be spaced apart from the first wall and defines an interstitial space between the first and second walls. The second wall defines a second orifice aligned with the first orifice. The apparatus has a sealing configuration in which the first sealing member extends across the first orifice and the second sealing member extends across the second orifice. The apparatus also has a venting configuration in which neither the first nor the second sealing member extends across the first orifice, a channel is defined between the first and second orifices, and the interior of the channel is fluidly isolated from the interstitial space.

[0004] In some examples, the method includes rupturing a portion of a first sealing element of the device. The device includes a first wall, a first sealing element, a second wall, and a second sealing element. The method further includes forming a channel between the first and second orifices to fluidly isolate the interior of the channel from the inter-gap space, and rupturing the second sealing element. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a device including a first sealing component and a second sealing component.

[0006] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a first example of a device in a sealed configuration.

[0007] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a first example of a device in a ventilated configuration.

[0008] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a second example of a device in a sealed configuration.

[0009] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a second example of a device in a ventilated configuration.

[0010] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fuel tank showing an example of a device.

[0011] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of an example aircraft including a fuel tank, which has an example of a device.

[0012] Figure 8 It is a flowchart schematically illustrating the methods of rupturing the first sealing component, forming a channel, and rupturing the second sealing component. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Apparatus including a sealing element and methods including a sealing element are disclosed. Generally, in the drawings, elements that may be included in a given example are shown with solid lines, while elements that are optional for a given example are shown with dashed lines. However, elements shown with solid lines are not essential for all examples of this disclosure, and elements shown with solid lines may be omitted from certain examples without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0014] like Figure 1 As schematically shown, device 10 includes at least a first wall 12, a first sealing member 50, a second wall 22, and a second sealing member 26. The first wall 12 defines a first orifice 14. The second wall 22 is arranged to be spaced apart from the first wall 12, defining a gap space 30 between the first wall 12 and the second wall 22. The second wall 22 defines a second orifice 24 aligned with the first orifice 14.

[0015] The device 10 has a sealing configuration 62 in which a first sealing member 50 extends across a first orifice 14 and a second sealing member 26 extends across a second orifice 24. The device 10 also has a venting configuration 64 in which the first sealing member 50 does not extend across the first orifice 14 and the second sealing member 26 does not extend across the second orifice 24. In the venting configuration 64, a channel 40 is defined between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24, and the interior of the channel 40 is fluidly isolated from the gap space 30.

[0016] When the device 10 is in the sealed configuration 62, the first sealing member 50 seals the first orifice 14 and the second sealing member 26 seals the second orifice 24. In the venting configuration 64, at least a portion of the first sealing member 50 and the second sealing member 26 ruptures, forming a channel 40 between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24. An example of the first sealing member 50 includes a first orifice seal 52, and an example of the second sealing member 26 includes a second orifice seal 90. In one example illustrating functionality, the first sealing member 50 and the second sealing member 26 include a rupture disc, and the first wall 12 is the inner wall of the pressure vessel. In another example, the first orifice seal 52 and the second orifice seal 90 are configured as rupture discs. In the example of the pressure vessel, when the pressure is within normal operating conditions, the first sealing member 50 and the second sealing member 26 seal the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24. When the maximum pressure is exceeded, the first sealing member 50 and the second sealing member 26 rupture, forming a channel 40 between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24 to prevent the contents of the pressure vessel from entering the interstitial space 30. Figure 2 An example of the device 10 in the sealed configuration 62 is depicted, and Figure 3 An exemplary device 10 is depicted in a ventilation configuration 64 (including a channel 40).

[0017] Figures 1 to 5 An example of a device 10 including a bridging portion 28 is depicted. For example... Figure 1 As shown, an example of the bridging portion 28 extends from the second wall 22 toward the first wall 12. Other examples of the bridging portion 28 are operatively coupled to the second wall 22 and form a channel 40 by the bridging portion 28 and the first sealing member 50. Figure 3 and Figure 5 Examples of bridging portions 28 forming channel 40 and first sealing members 50 are depicted. Other examples of bridging portions 28 surround a second opening 24 and form a cylinder around the second opening 24. Examples of bridging portions 28 are formed together with a second wall 22, and other examples of bridging portions 28 are formed separately from the second wall 22 and inserted into the second opening 24.

[0018] An example of the bridging portion 28 extends toward the first sealing member 50 and provides an engagement surface for the first sealing member 50 to contact as it transitions from the sealing configuration 62 to the venting configuration 64. In other words, in the venting configuration 64, the bridging portion 28 forms part of the bridging intergap space 30.

[0019] In the venting configuration 64, the bridging portion 28 and the first sealing member 50 form a channel 40. As described above, the channel 40 is defined between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24, and the interior of the channel 40 is fluidly isolated from the interstitial space 30. In other words, the first sealing member 50 and the bridging portion 28 form a barrier that reduces or prevents fluid within the channel 40 from entering the interstitial space 30.

[0020] Other examples of the bridging portion 28 include structures for engaging with the first sealing member 50. In one example, the bridging portion 28 includes a protrusion 32 that engages with a portion of the first sealing member 50 in the vent configuration 64. In another example, the protrusion 32 is formed as an O-ring or teeth. Examples of the protrusion 32 are arranged at an end of the bridging portion 28 remote from the second wall 22 and close to the first sealing member 50. Thus, when the first sealing member 50 breaks and extends along the direction of the second wall 22 and the bridging portion 28, the first sealing member 50 engages with the bridging portion 28 and the protrusion 32. Examples of the protrusion 32 extend in a circumference around the bridging portion 28. Other examples of the protrusion 32 extend around one or more portions of the bridging portion 28.

[0021] The first sealing member 50 includes a first orifice seal 52 extending across the first orifice 14 in the sealing configuration 62. Therefore, the first orifice seal 52 seals the first orifice 14 in the sealing configuration 62. In the example of the venting configuration 64, the first orifice seal 52 extends toward the second wall 22 and does not extend across the first orifice 14. In other words, the first orifice seal 52 breaks in the venting configuration 64.

[0022] In some examples, the first orifice seal 52 is configured as a rupture disc. The rupture disc is made of metal or other materials. The rupture disc is designed to rupture under a predetermined pressure. In some examples, the thickness and size of the rupture disc determine the rupture pressure. In other examples, discontinuities are added to the rupture disc to control the burst pressure. In still other examples, a fracture element is used to cause the rupture disc to rupture at a predetermined deformation point. In one example, the first orifice seal fracture element 72 is configured to engage with the first orifice seal 52 when the device 10 transitions from the sealing configuration 62 to the venting configuration 64. In another example, the first orifice seal fracture element 72 forms an edge that contacts the first orifice seal 52. In other words, the first orifice seal fracture element 72 pierces the first orifice seal 52.

[0023] Examples of the second sealing member 26 and the second orifice seal 90 include a rupture disc extending across the second orifice 24. Examples of the second sealing member 26 and the second orifice seal 90 are similarly constructed of metal or other materials. Other examples of the second sealing member 26 include discontinuous structures for determining the rupture pressure.

[0024] Examples of the first sealing member 50 and the second sealing member 26 are configured to rupture under different pressures. In one example, the first sealing member 50 is configured to rupture under a first pressure, and the second sealing member 26 is configured to rupture under a second pressure. In such an example, the first pressure is greater than the second pressure. The second sealing member 26, having a lower rupture pressure than the first sealing member 50, can prevent the delayed release of excessive pressure within the first wall 12. In other words, once the first sealing member 50 ruptures, the second sealing member 26 ruptures easily and rapidly under pressure.

[0025] In sealing configuration 62, the first sealing member 50 seals the first orifice 14, and in venting configuration 64, the first sealing member 50 forms a channel 40. Specifically, in venting configuration 64, a portion of the first sealing member 50 engages with the bridging portion 28 to form within the channel 40. Sealing configuration 62... Figure 2 and Figure 4 As depicted in the text, while the ventilation structure 64 is in Figure 3 and Figure 5 As depicted in the diagram. In contrast to the venting configuration 64, in the sealing configuration 62, the first sealing member 50 and the bridging portion 28 do not come into direct contact.

[0026] also, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 A gap 34 is depicted between the first sealing member 50 and the bridging portion 28. More specifically, the gap 34 is defined in the gap space 30 and between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24, such that no physical structure exists within the gap 34. The lack of structure within the gap 34 does not provide a path for conductive heat transfer through the physical structure. Furthermore, in some examples of the sealing configuration 62, a partial vacuum is formed in the gap space 30 and the gap 34. The presence of the partial vacuum further reduces heat transfer between the first wall 12 and the second wall 22. In other words, the gap 34 provides a thermal interruption between the first sealing member 50 and the bridging portion 28, similar to the gap space 30 providing a thermal interruption between the first wall 12 and the second wall 22. In other words, in the sealing configuration 62, there is no path for conductive heat transfer through the gap space 30 between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24 between the first wall 12 and the second wall 22. Furthermore, in the sealing configuration 62, there is no path for conductive heat transfer between the first sealing member 50 and the bridging portion 28.

[0027] Now go to Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 This illustrates a non-exclusive example of device 10. Where appropriate, from Figure 1 The reference numerals in the schematic diagram are used to specify Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The corresponding part of the example. However, Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The examples are non-exclusive and do not limit device 10 to Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The illustrated embodiment. That is to say, device 10 is not limited to... Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In a specific embodiment, the device 10 can be incorporated into Figure 1 Schematic diagram and / or Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The embodiments illustrated and discussed may include any number of various aspects, constructions, characteristics, properties, etc., and variations thereof of the apparatus 10, without needing to include all such aspects, constructions, characteristics, properties, etc. For the sake of brevity, it may be omitted from the discussion. Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Examples are discussed again, shown, and / or labeled with each previously discussed component, part, section, aspect, region, etc., or variations thereof; however, the features, variations, etc., previously discussed may be related to... Figures 2 to 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The examples are used together, which is within the scope of this disclosure.

[0028] The example of the first sealing component 50 varies in construction. Figure 2 and Figure 3 An example of a first sealing member 50 is depicted, wherein a first orifice seal 52 engages with a bridging portion 28. Therefore, the first orifice seal 52 and the bridging portion 28 are arranged and sized such that, in the venting configuration 64, the first orifice seal 52 engages with the bridging portion 28. In other words, in the venting configuration 64, the first orifice seal 52 bridges the gap space 30 to engage with the bridging portion 28. In this example, the dimensions of the first orifice seal 52 must be such that, when the first orifice seal 52 breaks and extends along the direction of the second wall 22, the first orifice seal 52 is long enough to engage with the bridging portion 28. Furthermore, the bridging portion 28 must extend sufficiently in the direction of the first wall 12 so that the first orifice seal 52 can engage with the bridging portion 28.

[0029] In contrast to ventilation structure 64, in Figure 2In the example sealing configuration 62, the first orifice seal 52 does not engage with the bridging portion 28. As described above, in the sealing configuration 62, a gap 34 is maintained between the first orifice seal 52 and the bridging portion 28, and the gap 34 reduces heat transfer between the first wall 12 and the second wall 22, and between the first sealing member 50 and the bridging portion 28.

[0030] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Another construction of the first sealing component 50 is depicted. Figure 4 and Figure 5 An example of a first sealing member 50, including member 54 and member seal 56, is depicted. Member 54 is configured to translate toward the second wall 22 as the device 10 transitions from sealing configuration 62 to venting configuration 64. In other words, member 54 is configured to translate toward bridging portion 28. The translation of member 54 occurs after the first orifice seal 52 ruptures. Once the first orifice seal 52 ruptures, pressure causes member 54 to translate toward the second wall 22.

[0031] Examples of component 54 include a first component part 58 attached to the first wall 12 and a second component part 60 translated along the first component part 58. The translation of the second component part 60 serves to bridge the gap 34 between the first sealing component 50 and the bridging portion 28. Examples of component 54 are formed around the first orifice 14, or around the first orifice 14, forming a cylinder.

[0032] Component seal 56 is configured to rupture under maximum pressure. Component seal 56 may be configured as a rupture disc, similar to the first orifice seal 52 and the second orifice seal 90. Examples of the first orifice seal 52, component seal 56, and second sealing member 26 are configured to rupture under different pressures. In one example, the first orifice seal 52 is configured to rupture under a first pressure, the second orifice seal 90 of the second sealing member 26 is configured to rupture under a second pressure, and component seal 56 is configured to rupture under a third pressure. In this example, the first pressure is greater than the third pressure. In another example, the second pressure is less than the third pressure. The second orifice seal 90 of the second sealing member 26 and the component seal 56, having a lower rupture pressure than the first orifice seal 52, can prevent delayed release of excessive pressure within the first wall 12 (which causes the first orifice seal 52 to rupture). In other words, the first pressure that would rupture the first orifice seal 52 would cascade rapidly through and cause component seal 56 and the second sealing member 26 to rupture.

[0033] Figure 5A bridging portion 28 is depicted, operably coupled to the second wall 22, and in the venting configuration 64, a component 54 and / or a component seal 56 engages with the bridging portion 28 to form a channel 40. As described above, the channel 40 is defined between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24. The interior of the channel 40 is fluidly isolated from the inter-gap space 30. Figure 5 In the example, component 54, component seal 56, and bridging portion 28 form a channel 40 extending from the first orifice 14 to the second orifice 24. Furthermore, component 54, component seal 56, and bridging portion 28 fluidly isolate the interior of the channel 40 from the interstitial space 30. In other words, component 54, component seal 56, and bridging portion 28 form a barrier that reduces or prevents fluid from entering the interstitial space 30 within the channel 40. Figure 5 The protrusion 32 that engages with the bridging portion 28 is further depicted as a component 54 and / or a component seal 56. An example of the protrusion 32 provides contact surfaces for the component 54 and / or the component seal 56 to engage with and form a fluid barrier.

[0034] An example of device 10 includes a component seal fracture element 70, which is configured to engage with component seal 56 when device 10 transitions from sealing configuration 62 to venting configuration 64. An example of component seal fracture element 70 forms an edge that contacts component seal 56. As described above, the fracture element is used to rupture the rupture disc at a predetermined deformation point.

[0035] Examples of device 10 are component systems and other devices. In one example, the first wall 12 and the second wall 22 form part of a double-walled insulated container, wherein a partial vacuum is formed between the first wall 12 and the second wall 22 in the sealing configuration 62. Figure 6 Another example is depicted, wherein a first wall 12 and a second wall 22 form at least a portion of a fuel tank 80, and wherein the fuel tank 80 contains cryogenic fuel 82. Figure 7 An example of a device 10 forming part of a fuel tank 80 is depicted, and the fuel tank 80 is arranged inside a spacecraft 84. Other examples of fuel tanks 80 are arranged together with a spacecraft.

[0036] Figure 8 A flowchart is provided schematically to illustrate a non-exclusive example of method 200 according to this disclosure. Figure 8 In this document, some steps are shown in dashed boxes to indicate that such steps may be optional or may correspond to optional versions of the methods according to this disclosure. That is, not all methods according to this disclosure need to include the steps shown in solid boxes. Figure 8The methods and steps shown are not limiting, and other methods and steps within the scope of this disclosure include methods having more or fewer steps than those shown, as understood from the discussion herein.

[0037] like Figure 8 As shown, method 200 includes: rupturing a portion of the first sealing member 50 of device 10 202 to form a channel 40 204 between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24 to fluidly isolate the interior of the channel 40 from the gap space 30, and rupturing the second sealing member 26 206.

[0038] In some examples, the rupture 202 of the first sealing member 50 occurs under a first predetermined pressure, and the rupture 206 of the second sealing member 26 occurs under a second predetermined pressure. As described above, examples of the first sealing member 50 and the second sealing member 26 include rupture discs. In some examples, the rupture pressure of the first sealing member 50 is greater than the rupture pressure of the second sealing member 26.

[0039] After a portion of the first sealing member 50 is broken 202, a channel 40 204 is formed between the first orifice 14 and the second orifice 24. An example of forming the channel 40 204 includes a portion of the first sealing member 50 forming a portion of the channel 40. In other examples, the step of forming the channel 40 204 includes engaging a portion of the first sealing member 50 with a bridging portion 28 208. As described above, an example of the bridging portion 28 is operatively coupled to the second wall 22 and extends in the direction of the first wall 12 and the first sealing member 50. Furthermore, an example of forming the channel 40 204 includes engaging a portion of the first sealing member 50 with the bridging portion 28 208 to at least form a partial seal that fluidly isolates the interior of the channel 40 from the inter-gap space 30. An example of the first sealing member 50 engages with the protrusion 32 and the bridging portion 28, as... Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown.

[0040] Examples of forming channel 40 vary based on the construction of the first sealing member 50. In one example, the first orifice seal 52 engages with the bridging portion 28 to form channel 40. In other examples, the steps of forming channel 40 include: translating 210 of member 54 of the first sealing member 50 toward the second wall 22. Further examples include: rupturing member seal 56 212. In examples including member seal 56, member seal 56 and / or member 54 engage with the bridging portion 28 to form channel 40.

[0041] The following paragraphs describe illustrative, non-exclusive examples of the inventive subject matter according to this disclosure:

[0042] A. An apparatus (10) comprising:

[0043] The first wall (12) defines the first opening (14);

[0044] First sealing component (50);

[0045] A second wall (22) is spaced apart from the first wall (12), defining a gap space (30) between the second wall (22) and the first wall (12), and the second wall defines a second opening (24) aligned with the first opening (14);

[0046] Second sealing component (26);

[0047] The device (10) has the following features:

[0048] A sealing structure (62) in which the first sealing member (50) extends across the first orifice (14) and the second sealing member (26) extends across the second orifice (24); and

[0049] A venting configuration (64) wherein the first sealing member (50) does not extend across the first orifice (14) and the second sealing member (26) does not extend across the second orifice (24), wherein a channel (40) is defined between the first orifice (14) and the second orifice (24), and wherein the interior of the channel (40) is fluidly isolated from the gap space (30).

[0050] A1. The device (10) according to paragraph A further includes: a bridging portion (28) operably connected to the second wall (22), wherein the channel (40) is formed by the bridging portion (28) and the first sealing member (50).

[0051] A2. The device (10) according to paragraph A1, wherein the bridging portion (28) extends from the second wall (22) toward the first wall (12).

[0052] A3. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A1 to A2, wherein the bridging portion (28) includes a protrusion (32) that engages with a portion of the first sealing member (50) in the venting configuration (64).

[0053] A4. The device (10) according to paragraph A3, wherein the protrusion (32) is formed as an O-ring or a tooth.

[0054] A5. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A1 to A4, wherein, in the sealing structure (62), the bridging portion (28) and the first sealing member (50) do not directly contact each other.

[0055] A6. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A1 to A5, wherein, in the venting configuration (64), a portion of the first sealing member (50) engages with the bridging portion (28) to form the channel (40).

[0056] A7. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A6, wherein the first sealing member (50) includes a first orifice seal (52) extending across the first orifice (14) in the sealing configuration (62).

[0057] A8. The device (10) according to paragraph A7, wherein, in the venting configuration (64), the first orifice seal (52) extends toward the second wall (22) and does not extend across the first orifice (14).

[0058] A9. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A7 to A8, the device further comprising a first orifice seal break (72) configured to engage with the first orifice seal (52) when the device (10) transitions from the sealing configuration (62) to the venting configuration (64).

[0059] A10. The device (10) according to paragraph A9, wherein the first orifice seal break member (72) forms an edge that contacts the first orifice seal member (52).

[0060] A11. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A10, wherein the first sealing member (50) is configured to rupture under a first pressure, wherein the second sealing member (26) is configured to rupture under a second pressure, and wherein the first pressure is greater than the second pressure.

[0061] A12. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A1 to A11, wherein the first orifice seal (52) is a part of the first sealing member (50) that engages with the bridging portion (28).

[0062] A13. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A11, wherein the first sealing member (50) includes a member (54) and a member seal (56), and wherein the member (54) is configured to translate toward the second wall (22) when the device (10) transitions from the sealing structure (62) to the venting structure (64).

[0063] A14. The device (10) according to paragraph A13, wherein pressure causes the member (54) to translate toward the second wall (22).

[0064] A15. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A13 to A14, the device further comprising: a bridging portion (28) operably coupled to the second wall (22), wherein, in the venting configuration (64), the member (54) or the member seal (56) engages with the bridging portion (28) to form a channel (40).

[0065] A16. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A13 to A15, the device further comprising: a component seal break (70) configured to engage with the component seal (56) when the device (10) transitions from the sealing configuration (62) to the venting configuration (64).

[0066] A17. The device (10) according to paragraph A16, wherein the component sealing break (70) forms an edge that contacts the component sealing (56).

[0067] A18. The apparatus (10) according to any one of paragraphs A13 to A17 when it is subordinate to any one of paragraphs A7 to A11, wherein the first orifice seal (52) is configured to rupture under a first pressure, wherein the component seal (56) is configured to rupture under a third pressure, and wherein the first pressure is greater than the third pressure.

[0068] A19. The device (10) according to paragraph A18, wherein the second sealing member (26) is configured to rupture under a second pressure, and wherein the second pressure is less than the third pressure.

[0069] A20. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A19, wherein in the sealing structure (62), a gap (34) is defined in the gap space (30) and between the first orifice (14) and the second orifice (24), and wherein there is no physical structure in the gap (34).

[0070] A21. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A20, wherein, in the sealing structure (62), there is no path for heat conduction through the gap space (30) between the first orifice (14) and the second orifice (24) between the first wall (12) and the second wall (22).

[0071] A22. The device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A21, wherein a partial vacuum is formed in the gap space (30) in the sealing structure (62).

[0072] A23. The apparatus (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A22, wherein the first wall (12) and the second wall (22) form at least a portion of a fuel tank (80), and wherein the fuel tank (80) holds cryogenic fuel (82).

[0073] A24. The apparatus (10) according to paragraph A23, wherein the fuel tank (80) is arranged inside an aircraft (84) or spacecraft.

[0074] B. A method (200) comprising:

[0075] A portion of the first sealing member (50) of the device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A24 is broken (202);

[0076] A channel (40) is formed (204) between the first orifice (14) and the second orifice (24) to fluidly isolate the interior of the channel (40) from the inter-gap space (30); and

[0077] This causes the second sealing component (26) to rupture (206).

[0078] B1. The method (200) according to paragraph B, wherein the device (10) further includes a bridging portion (28) operably coupled to the second wall (22), and wherein the step of forming the channel (40) includes engaging (208) a portion of the first sealing member (50) with the bridging portion (28).

[0079] B2. The method (200) according to paragraph B1, wherein a portion of the first sealing member (50) is engaged (208) with the bridging portion (28) to form at least a partial seal, the partial seal fluidly isolating the interior of the channel (40) from the inter-gap space (30).

[0080] B3. The method (200) according to any one of paragraphs B to B2 belonging to any one of paragraphs A13 to A18, wherein the step of forming (204) the channel (40) includes: translating (210) the member (54) of the first sealing member (50) toward the second wall (22).

[0081] B4. According to the method (200) in paragraph B3, the step of forming (204) channel (40) includes: breaking (212) the component seal (56).

[0082] C. Use of the device (10) according to any one of paragraphs A to A24 for relieving pressure.

[0083] This application involves the following provisions:

[0084] 1. An apparatus comprising:

[0085] A first wall, the first wall defining a first opening;

[0086] First sealing component;

[0087] A second wall, spaced apart from the first wall, defines a gap space between the first wall and the second wall, and the second wall defines a second opening aligned with the first opening;

[0088] Second sealing component;

[0089] The device comprises:

[0090] A sealing configuration in which a first sealing member extends across a first orifice and a second sealing member extends across a second orifice; and

[0091] A ventilated configuration in which the first sealing member does not extend across the first orifice, the second sealing member does not extend across the second orifice, a channel is defined between the first orifice and the second orifice, and wherein the interior of the channel is fluidly isolated from the space between the gaps.

[0092] 2. The apparatus according to Clause 1, further comprising: a bridging portion operatively coupled to the second wall, wherein the channel is formed by the bridging portion and the first sealing member.

[0093] 3. The apparatus according to Clause 2, wherein the bridging portion extends from the second wall toward the first wall.

[0094] 4. The device according to Clause 2, wherein the bridging portion includes a protrusion that, in the venting configuration, engages with a portion of the first sealing member.

[0095] 5. The apparatus according to Clause 2, wherein, in the sealing configuration, the bridging portion and the first sealing member do not directly contact each other.

[0096] 6. The device according to Clause 2, wherein, in the venting configuration, a portion of the first sealing member engages with the bridging portion to form the channel.

[0097] 7. An apparatus comprising:

[0098] A first wall, the first wall defining a first opening;

[0099] First sealing component;

[0100] A second wall, spaced apart from the first wall, defines a gap space between the first wall and the second wall, and the second wall defines a second opening aligned with the first opening;

[0101] Second sealing component;

[0102] A bridging portion, said bridging portion being operatively connected to the second wall;

[0103] The device comprises:

[0104] A sealing configuration in which a first sealing member extends across a first orifice and a second sealing member extends across a second orifice; and

[0105] A ventilated configuration in which the first sealing member does not extend across the first orifice, the second sealing member does not extend across the second orifice, a channel is defined between the first orifice and the second orifice, and the channel is formed by the bridging portion and at least a portion of the first sealing member, and wherein the interior of the channel is fluidly isolated from the gap space.

[0106] 8. The apparatus according to Clause 7, wherein the first sealing member includes a first orifice seal, wherein in the sealing configuration, the first orifice seal extends across the first orifice, and

[0107] In the ventilation configuration, the first orifice seal extends toward the second wall and does not extend across the first orifice.

[0108] 9. The apparatus according to Clause 7, wherein the first sealing member is configured to rupture under a first pressure, wherein the second sealing member is configured to rupture under a second pressure, and wherein the first pressure is greater than the second pressure.

[0109] 10. The apparatus according to Clause 7, wherein the first sealing member includes a first orifice seal, wherein in the sealing configuration the first orifice seal extends across the first orifice, and wherein the first orifice seal is the portion of the first sealing member that engages with the bridging portion.

[0110] 11. The device according to Clause 7, wherein the first sealing member includes a component and a component seal, and wherein the component is configured to translate toward the second wall when the device transitions from the sealing configuration to the venting configuration.

[0111] 12. The apparatus according to Clause 11, wherein pressure causes the member to translate toward the second wall.

[0112] 13. The device according to Clause 11, wherein, in the venting configuration, the component or the component seal engages with the bridging portion to form the channel.

[0113] 14. The apparatus according to Clause 11, wherein the first sealing member is configured to rupture under a first pressure, wherein the second sealing member is configured to rupture under a second pressure, wherein the component seal is configured to rupture under a third pressure, and wherein the first pressure is greater than the third pressure, and wherein the second pressure is less than the third pressure.

[0114] 15. The apparatus according to Clause 7, wherein, in the sealing configuration, a gap is defined in the gap space and between the first orifice and the second orifice, and wherein there is no physical structure in the gap.

[0115] 16. The apparatus according to Clause 7, wherein, in the sealing configuration, there is no path for conductive heat transfer through the gap space between the first orifice and the second wall.

[0116] 17. The apparatus according to Clause 7, wherein the first wall and the second wall form at least a portion of a double-walled insulated fuel tank, wherein a partial vacuum is formed in the gap space in the sealed configuration, and wherein the double-walled insulated fuel tank is disposed within an aircraft or spacecraft.

[0117] 18. A method comprising:

[0118] A portion of the first sealing member of the device is ruptured, wherein the device includes: a first wall defining a first orifice; a second wall spaced apart from the first wall and defining a gap space between the first wall and the second wall, and the second wall defining a second orifice aligned with the first orifice; a bridging portion operatively connected to the second wall, and in a sealing configuration, the first sealing member extends across the first orifice, and the second sealing member extends across the second orifice;

[0119] A channel is formed between the first orifice and the second orifice to fluidly isolate the interior of the channel from the space between the gaps; and

[0120] This causes the second sealing component to rupture.

[0121] 19. The method according to Clause 18, wherein the device further includes the bridging portion operatively coupled to the second wall, and wherein the step of forming the channel includes engaging a portion of the first sealing member with the bridging portion.

[0122] 20. The method according to Clause 19, wherein a portion of the first sealing member engages with the bridging portion to form at least a partial seal, the partial seal fluidly isolating the interior of the channel from the inter-gap space.

[0123] As used herein, the terms “adapter” and “construction” mean that an element, component, or other subject matter is designed and / or intended to perform a given function. Therefore, the use of the terms “adapter” and “construction” should not be construed as meaning that a given element, component, or other subject matter is merely “capable” of performing a given function, but rather that the element, component, and / or other subject matter is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed to perform that function. Also within the scope of this disclosure, elements, components, and / or other described subject matter that are described as suitable for performing a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being constructed to perform that function, and vice versa. Similarly, subject matter described as being constructed to perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being operationally capable of performing that function.

[0124] As used herein, the term “and / or” placed between the first entity and the second entity means (1) the first entity, (2) the second entity, and (3) one of the first entity and the second entity. Multiple entries listed with “and / or” should be interpreted in the same way, i.e., “one or more” of the entities thus combined. Optional entities may exist in addition to those specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related to or unrelated to those specifically identified. Thus, as a non-restrictive example, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “includes,” a reference to “A and / or B” may in one example refer only to A (optionally including entities other than B); in another example, only to B (optionally including entities other than A); and in yet another example, both A and B (optionally including other entities). These entities may refer to elements, actions, structures, steps, operations, values, etc.

[0125] All apparatuses and methods according to this disclosure do not require the various disclosed elements and steps of the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein, and this disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements and steps disclosed herein. Furthermore, one or more of the various elements and steps disclosed herein may define an independent inventive subject matter that is separate and independent from and distinct from the overall disclosed apparatus or method. Therefore, such inventive subject matter does not need to be associated with the specific apparatus and method explicitly disclosed herein, and such inventive subject matter may find utility in apparatuses and / or methods not explicitly disclosed herein.

[0126] This application is a non-provisional patent application filed on February 27, 2025, entitled “Apparatus Compressing Seal Components and Methods Compressing Seal Components”, and claims priority thereto, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: A first wall, the first wall defining a first opening; First sealing component; A second wall, spaced apart from the first wall, defines a gap space between the first wall and the second wall, and the second wall defines a second opening aligned with the first opening; Second sealing component; The device comprises: A sealing configuration in which a first sealing member extends across a first orifice and a second sealing member extends across a second orifice; and A ventilated configuration in which the first sealing member does not extend across the first orifice, the second sealing member does not extend across the second orifice, a channel is defined between the first orifice and the second orifice, and wherein the interior of the channel is fluidly isolated from the space between the gaps.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A bridging portion, operatively connected to the second wall, wherein the channel is formed by the bridging portion and the first sealing member.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The bridging portion extends from the second wall toward the first wall.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The bridging portion includes a protrusion that, in the venting configuration, engages with a portion of the first sealing member.

5. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, In the sealing structure, the bridging portion and the first sealing component do not come into direct contact.

6. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, In the venting configuration, a portion of the first sealing member engages with the bridging portion to form the channel.

7. An apparatus comprising: A first wall, the first wall defining a first opening; First sealing component; A second wall, spaced apart from the first wall, defines a gap space between the first wall and the second wall, and the second wall defines a second opening aligned with the first opening; Second sealing component; A bridging portion, said bridging portion being operatively connected to the second wall; The device comprises: A sealing configuration in which a first sealing member extends across a first orifice and a second sealing member extends across a second orifice; and A ventilated configuration in which the first sealing member does not extend across the first orifice, the second sealing member does not extend across the second orifice, a channel is defined between the first orifice and the second orifice, and the channel is formed by the bridging portion and at least a portion of the first sealing member, and wherein the interior of the channel is fluidly isolated from the gap space.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The first sealing component includes a first orifice seal, wherein in the sealing configuration, the first orifice seal extends across the first orifice, and In the ventilation configuration, the first orifice seal extends toward the second wall and does not extend across the first orifice.

9. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The first sealing member is configured to rupture under a first pressure, wherein the second sealing member is configured to rupture under a second pressure, and wherein the first pressure is greater than the second pressure.

10. A method, the method comprising: A portion of the first sealing member of the device is ruptured, wherein the device includes: a first wall defining a first orifice; a second wall spaced apart from the first wall and defining a gap space between the first wall and the second wall, and the second wall defining a second orifice aligned with the first orifice; a bridging portion operatively connected to the second wall, and in a sealing configuration, the first sealing member extends across the first orifice, and the second sealing member extends across the second orifice; A channel is formed between the first orifice and the second orifice to fluidly isolate the interior of the channel from the space between the gaps; and This causes the second sealing component to rupture.

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