Liquid delivery device

Abstract

The present application provides a liquid delivery apparatus comprising: a gas input line configured to communicate an exterior of a sealed container with an interior of the container; a liquid output line configured to communicate an exterior of the sealed container with an interior of the container, where the liquid inlet is positioned below a liquid level of the liquid in the interior of the container; and a gas regulating device for connecting between a gas source and a gas inlet of the gas input line and for regulating the internal gas pressure of the container by regulating the amount of gas input from the gas source into the interior of the container via the gas input line, and the liquid can be conveyed out of the container through the liquid output pipeline under the action of the internal gas pressure. The liquid conveying equipment is high in conveying efficiency and good in leakproofness.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates generally to the technical field of liquid delivery, and more particularly to a liquid delivery apparatus. The liquid delivery apparatus is particularly suitable for delivering fluorinated liquid from a sealed container, for example, into a chiller. BACKGROUND

[0002] Liquid delivery apparatuses are used to extract liquid from a container, such as a can, a bucket, or a bag, and then deliver the liquid to a designated recipient, such as a machine or another container, or a location.

[0003] As an example, in the semiconductor manufacturing industry, fluorinated liquid is used as a coolant due to its good thermal conductivity, electrical insulation, and chemical inertness. For example, in package testing, a chiller can use fluorinated liquid to simulate different environmental temperatures. Currently, a delivery apparatus including a suction device, such as a syringe, and a transfer container is typically used to fill fluorinated liquid into a chiller by the following manner: an operator first extracts fluorinated liquid from a container using the suction device, then injects the fluorinated liquid into the transfer container with a funnel-shaped nozzle, and finally aligns the funnel-shaped nozzle of the transfer container with a coolant inlet of the chiller and tilts the transfer container to inject the fluorinated liquid into the coolant inlet through the funnel-shaped nozzle. However, this manner has several disadvantages. First, this manner is tedious to operate, resulting in low filling efficiency. Second, the fluorinated liquid is exposed to the environment during the filling process, and the fluorinated liquid can volatilize into the environment due to its volatility, which can harm the operator if the operator is exposed to the environment with the fluorinated liquid for a long time. Also, since the fluorinated liquid is exposed to the environment during the filling process, foreign matter in the environment can be introduced into the fluorinated liquid and eventually into the chiller, which can clog and even damage components of the chiller, such as valves or tube bundles. Therefore, it is desirable to improve the existing delivery apparatus for delivering fluorinated liquid.

[0004] Similar problems also exist in the existing delivery apparatuses for delivering other types of coolant. In addition, similar problems also exist in the existing delivery apparatuses for delivering other types of liquid. Therefore, there is also a need to improve these delivery apparatuses. SUMMARY

[0005] It is an object of the present application to provide a novel liquid delivery apparatus. The liquid delivery apparatus according to the present application can overcome at least one of the above-described disadvantages of the prior art.

[0006] A liquid delivery apparatus is presented. The liquid delivery apparatus is for delivering liquid from inside a sealed container to the outside, and comprises: a gas input line having a gas inlet and a gas outlet, the gas input line being configured for communicating the outside of the container with the inside of the container, wherein the gas inlet is located outside the container and the gas outlet is in communication with the inside of the container; a liquid output line having a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, the liquid output line being configured for communicating the outside of the container with the inside of the container, wherein the liquid inlet is positioned inside the container below the liquid level of the liquid and the liquid outlet is located outside the container; and a gas regulating device configured for being connected between a gas source and the gas inlet of the gas input line, and for regulating the gas pressure inside the container by regulating the amount of gas input from the gas source into the inside of the container via the gas input line, so as to enable the liquid to be delivered from the inside of the container to the outside via the liquid output line under the action of the gas pressure inside.

[0007] In some embodiments, the gas regulating device comprises: a first on-off valve; a first connecting line for being connected between the gas source and the first on-off valve; and a second connecting line for being connected between the first on-off valve and the gas inlet; wherein the first on-off valve is configured to be switchable between at least an on state and an off state, the first on-off valve, when placed in the on state, opens the first connecting line and the second connecting line, and when placed in the off state, blocks the communication between the first connecting line and the second connecting line.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first on-off valve is configured to be switchable between the on state, the off state, and a venting state, wherein the first on-off valve: (i) when placed in the venting state, communicates the second connecting line with an atmospheric environment outside the liquid delivery apparatus, while blocking the first connecting line with respect to the second connecting line and the atmospheric environment; (ii) when placed in the on state, opens the first connecting line and the second connecting line, while blocking the atmospheric environment with respect to the first connecting line and the second connecting line; and (iii) when placed in the off state, blocks the communication between the first connecting line, the second connecting line, and the atmospheric environment.

[0009] In some embodiments, the gas regulating device further comprises a regulating valve connected on the first connecting line or the second connecting line, and for regulating the flow rate of gas flowing through the gas regulating device.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first on-off valve is adjustable when placed in the on state to adjust a flow rate of gas flowing through the gas regulating device.

[0011] In some embodiments, the gas regulating device further comprises a pressure reducing valve connected on the first connection line and configured to reduce a pressure of gas from the gas source.

[0012] In some embodiments, the gas regulating device further comprises a pressure gauge connected on the first connection line and configured to detect and display a pressure in the first connection line.

[0013] In some embodiments, the gas regulating device further comprises a safety valve connected on the first connection line and configured to automatically open when a pressure in the first connection line exceeds a predetermined threshold to vent gas from the first connection line to an atmospheric environment surrounding the liquid delivery apparatus.

[0014] In some embodiments, the gas outlet is positioned inside the container higher than the liquid level of the liquid.

[0015] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery apparatus further comprises a second on-off valve disposed on the liquid output line and configured to be operable to control an on and off of the liquid output line.

[0016] In some embodiments, the liquid delivery apparatus further comprises a one-way valve disposed on the liquid output line and configured to allow the liquid to flow in a direction from the liquid inlet towards the liquid outlet and to prevent the liquid from flowing in a direction from the liquid outlet towards the liquid inlet.

[0017] In some embodiments, the container has an opening leading from an outside of the container to an inside of the container, the delivery apparatus further comprises a cover member configured to be detachably mounted to the opening of the container to seal the opening, and the gas input line and the liquid output line are integrated with the cover member.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cover member comprises a first aperture extending through the cover member and a first fitting formed or disposed at the first aperture and providing a connection port outside the cover member, and the gas input line is detachably connected to the connection port of the first fitting from an outside of the container to communicate with the inside of the container through the first aperture.

[0019] In some embodiments, the cover member includes a second aperture extending through the cover member, a second fitting formed or disposed at the second aperture and providing a connection port on an outside of the cover member, and a third fitting formed or disposed at the second aperture and providing a connection port on an inside of the cover member, the liquid output line includes a first section and a second section, the first section is detachably connected to the connection port of the second fitting outside of the container, and the second section is detachably connected to the connection port of the third fitting inside of the container.

[0020] In some embodiments, the liquid is a coolant in a liquid state at normal temperature and pressure, and the liquid outlet of the liquid output line is configured for detachable connection to a coolant inlet port of a chiller.

[0021] In some embodiments, the liquid is a fluorinated liquid, and the gas input line and the liquid output line are made of a material resistant to corrosion by the fluorinated liquid.

[0022] These techniques can be used alone or in any suitable combination. The foregoing summary is provided in illustrative rather than limiting terms. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0023] The above and other aspects of the present application will become more apparent by a more detailed description of the application with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale and that elements of different drawings can be drawn to different scales. In different drawings, like reference numerals designate like elements, and the size, proportions and relative positions of the elements in the drawings are not to be construed as limiting. In the drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a liquid delivery apparatus according to some embodiments of the present application, which can be used to deliver a fluorinated liquid from a container to a chiller;

[0025] Figure 2A shows a perspective view of one version of an assembly of a liquid delivery apparatus consisting of a gas input line, a liquid output line, and a cover member, wherein the assembly is mounted to a container;

[0026] Figure 2B is a perspective view similar to Figure 2A but the assembly of the liquid delivery apparatus consisting of a gas input line, a liquid output line, and a cover member is separated from the container; and

[0027] Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view along Figure 2AA partial cross-sectional view of line 2C-2C in the diagram. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Some embodiments of the liquid conveying device of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following embodiments, for ease of description of the liquid conveying device according to this application, a liquid conveying device for conveying fluorinated liquid from a container to a refrigeration unit is used as an example. It should be understood that this example does not imply any limitation on this application, and the liquid conveying device according to this application can also be used to convey other types of liquids from the interior of a sealed container to a designated receiving object or location. It should also be understood that these embodiments do not imply any limitation on this application. Furthermore, features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other unless otherwise specified.

[0029] Figure 1 A liquid delivery device 1 according to some embodiments of this application is schematically illustrated. This liquid delivery device 1 can be used in a semiconductor packaging and testing plant and is used to deliver fluorinated liquid 3 from a sealed container 5 to a cooler 7. The fluorinated liquid 3 can be any suitable type of fluorinated liquid, such as HFE-7500. The fluorinated liquid 3 is in a liquid state at room temperature and pressure. The fluorinated liquid 3 can be used as a coolant to fill the cooler 7. In packaging testing, the cooler 7 can use the fluorinated liquid 3 to simulate different ambient temperatures. The container 5 can be a tank, barrel, or any other suitable type of storage container for storing the fluorinated liquid 3, and this application is not limited in this respect.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, the liquid conveying device 1 includes a gas input pipeline 20, a liquid output pipeline 30, and a gas regulating device 40.

[0031] Gas inlet line 20 is configured to connect the exterior of container 5 to the interior of container 5. Gas inlet line 20 has a gas inlet 21 and a gas outlet 22. Gas inlet 21 is located on the exterior of container 5, and gas outlet 22 communicates with the interior of container 5. For example, gas outlet 22 may be located inside container 5. Gas inlet line 20 may extend from the exterior of container 5 to the interior of container 5. As will be described below, gas outlet 22 may communicate with the interior of container 5 via a first connector 62.

[0032] The liquid outlet line 30 is also configured to communicate between the outside and the inside of container 5. The liquid outlet line 30 has a liquid inlet 31 and a liquid outlet 32. The liquid inlet 31 is positioned inside container 5 below the liquid level 3a of the fluorinated liquid 3, and the liquid outlet 32 ​​is located outside container 5. For example, the liquid outlet line 30 can extend from the outside to the inside of container 5. Alternatively, as will be described below, the liquid outlet line 30 may include at least two separate sections, one located outside container 5 and the other located inside container 5.

[0033] Gas regulating device 40 (e.g.) Figure 1 The dashed box (illustrated in the diagram) is configured for connection between gas source 50 and gas inlet 21 of gas input line 20. For example, gas source 50 may be an electric air compressor providing compressed air (such as oil-free compressed air). It should be understood that this application is not limited thereto, and gas source 50 may be a gas source providing any suitable gas that does not react with the fluorinated liquid 3 (e.g., nitrogen). In some embodiments, gas source 50 may be part of liquid delivery equipment 1. In other embodiments, gas source 50 may be provided separately from liquid delivery equipment 1, i.e., not part of liquid delivery equipment 1. For example, in a semiconductor packaging and testing plant, an interface for providing compressed air may be available in the field.

[0034] The gas regulating device 40 is configured to regulate the internal gas pressure of container 5 by adjusting the amount of gas introduced from gas source 50 into the interior of container 5 via gas input line 20, so that the fluorinated liquid 3 can be conveyed out of the interior of container 5 via liquid output line 30 under the action of the internal gas pressure. Specifically, as gas is introduced from gas source 50 into the interior of container 5 via gas input line 20, the internal gas pressure of container 5 can increase to be greater than the pressure at liquid outlet 32 ​​of liquid output line 30. Since liquid inlet 31 is lower than the liquid surface 3a of fluorinated liquid 3, fluorinated liquid 3 can enter liquid output line 30 from liquid inlet 31 under the action of internal gas pressure and flow along liquid output line 30 to liquid outlet 32, thereby being conveyed out of the interior of container 5. Liquid outlet 32 ​​can be configured for detachable connection (e.g., threaded or snap-fit) to refrigerant input port 7a of refrigerator 7. In this way, fluorinated liquid 3 can be conveyed from container 5 to refrigerator 7. "Removable connection" means that the liquid outlet line 30 can be repeatedly installed to and removed from the coolant inlet port 7a without causing any material damage to either of these structures or their function.

[0035] With this configuration, the liquid delivery apparatus 1 is able to "displace" the liquid, i.e. the fluorinated liquid 3, in the container 5 with the gas provided by the gas source 50, so as to deliver the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the chiller 7. Compared to the conventional delivery apparatus described in the background art, the liquid delivery apparatus 1 has the following advantages: (i) the operation of the liquid delivery apparatus 1 is simple, thus being able to simplify the steps of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the chiller 7 and improve the delivery efficiency; (ii) the delivery process can be automatically performed under the driving of the gas provided by the gas source 50, the delivery speed is fast, and the labor burden of the operator is reduced; (iii) during the delivery process, the entire flow path of the fluorinated liquid 3 is sealed, so the fluorinated liquid 3 is isolated from the ambient environment and cannot volatilize into the ambient environment, thus improving the safety and avoiding the risk of introducing foreign matter into the fluorinated liquid 3 and further into the chiller 7. In addition, in some embodiments, in the application scenario such as a semiconductor packaging factory, in the case of having an interface for providing compressed air on site, the delivery of the fluorinated liquid 3 can be achieved only by using compressed air, without the need to provide a battery or connect an external power source for the liquid delivery apparatus 1.

[0036] The specific configuration of the liquid delivery apparatus 1 will be first introduced in combination with the following Figures 1 to 2C The operation of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the chiller 7 by using the liquid delivery apparatus 1 will then be introduced in combination with these specific configurations.

[0037] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1 The gas regulating device 40 can include a first on-off valve 41, a first connecting pipeline 43 for connecting between the gas source 50 and the first on-off valve 41, and a second connecting pipeline 44 for connecting between the first on-off valve 41 and the gas inlet 21. The first on-off valve 41 can be configured to be switchable between at least an on state and an off state. The first on-off valve 41 connects the first connecting pipeline 43 and the second connecting pipeline 44 when being placed in the on state. That is, when the first on-off valve 41 is placed in the on state, the gas can flow between the first connecting pipeline 43 and the second connecting pipeline 44. The first on-off valve 41 blocks the communication between the first connecting pipeline 43 and the second connecting pipeline 44 when being placed in the off state. That is, when the first on-off valve 41 is placed in the off state, the gas cannot flow between the first connecting pipeline 43 and the second connecting pipeline 44. By switching the first on-off valve 41 between the on state and the off state, whether and how much gas is input from the gas source 50 to the inside of the container 5 via the gas input pipeline 20 can be controlled to regulate the gas pressure in the inside of the container 5, so as to control the delivery process of the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the chiller 7. The first on-off valve 41 can be any suitable type of valve member. The first on-off valve 41 can be switched between the on state and the off state manually, electrically or pneumatically.

[0038] In one of these embodiments, the first switch valve 41 can be configured to switch between the aforementioned on state, the aforementioned off state, and a venting state. When placed in the venting state, the first switch valve 41 communicates the second connection line 44 with the atmosphere outside of the liquid delivery apparatus 1 (e.g., via a vent line 41a schematically shown in Figure 1 Fig. 3, which communicates with the atmosphere) and blocks the first connection line 43 from the second connection line 44 and the atmosphere (e.g., the vent line 41a). That is, when the first switch valve 41 is placed in the venting state, gas can flow from the second connection line 44 to the atmosphere outside of the liquid delivery apparatus 1. Since the second connection line 44 is connected to the gas inlet 21 of the gas input line 20, when the first switch valve 41 is placed in the venting state and the internal gas pressure of the container 5 is higher than the atmospheric pressure, the gas inside of the container 5 can be vented to the atmosphere via the gas input line 20 and the second connection line 44, thereby rapidly reducing the internal gas pressure of the container 5. In this embodiment, the gas outlet 22 must be positioned above the liquid level of the fluorinated liquid 3 to prevent the fluorinated liquid 3 from being vented to the atmosphere via the gas input line 20 and the second connection line 44 under the action of the internal gas pressure of the container 5. When placed in the on state, the first switch valve 41 communicates the first connection line 43 and the second connection line 44 and blocks the atmosphere (e.g., the vent line 41a) from the first connection line 43 and the second connection line 44. That is, gas can flow between the first connection line 43 and the second connection line 44 but cannot flow from the first connection line 43 and the second connection line 44 to the atmosphere. When placed in the off state, the first switch valve 41 blocks the communication between the first connection line 43, the second connection line 44, and the atmosphere (e.g., the vent line 41a). That is, gas cannot flow between the first connection line 43, the second connection line 44, and the atmosphere. With this configuration, the liquid delivery apparatus 1 can be integrated with a switch control function and a venting function. This enables precise control of the process of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7.

[0039] The first switch valve 41 can be switched between the on state, the off state, and the venting state manually, electrically, or pneumatically. In some examples, as shown in Figure 1 Fig. 3, the first switch valve 41 can be a three-way switch valve. However, it should be understood that the specific type of the first switch valve 41 is not limited thereto.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first on-off valve 41 is adjustable when placed in the aforementioned on state to adjust the flow rate of the gas flowing through the gas regulating device 40. That is, the first on-off valve 41 itself has the flow rate adjusting capability. With this configuration, the delivery rate of the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7 can be adjusted, thereby more precisely controlling the process of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, as shown in FIG. 4, the gas regulating device 40 can include a regulating valve 42. The regulating valve 42 can be connected on the first connecting line 43 and used to adjust the flow rate of the gas flowing through the gas regulating device 40. Alternatively, the gas regulating device 40 can include a regulating valve (not shown) connected on the second connecting line 44, which is also used to adjust the flow rate of the gas flowing through the gas regulating device 40. With either of these configurations, the delivery rate of the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7 can be adjusted, thereby more precisely controlling the process of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7. Figure 1

[0042] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, the gas regulating device 40 can include a pressure gauge 45 connected on the first connecting line 43. That is, the pressure gauge 45 is connected between the first on-off valve 41 and the gas source 50. The pressure gauge 45 is used to detect and display the pressure in the first connecting line 43. The operator can read the pressure in the first connecting line 43 from the pressure gauge 45 in real time, visually and clearly. This enables the operator to (i) check whether there is a leak between the first on-off valve 41 and the gas source 50 when the first on-off valve 41 is placed in the aforementioned off state (i.e., before the fluorinated liquid 3 is delivered from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7), and (ii) monitor the pressure change in the entire flow path in real time when the first on-off valve 41 is placed in the aforementioned on state to monitor the process of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7. For example, the pressure gauge 45 can be connected on the first connecting line 43 between the regulating valve 42 and the first on-off valve 41. It should be understood that the specific location of the pressure gauge 45 is not limited thereto. Furthermore, it should be understood that the pressure gauge 45 can be any suitable type of pressure measuring device, such as a mechanical or electronic pressure gauge. Figure 1

[0043] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the gas regulating device 40 can include a pressure gauge 45 connected on the second connecting line 44. That is, the pressure gauge 45 is connected between the second on-off valve 42 and the refrigerator 7. The pressure gauge 45 is used to detect and display the pressure in the second connecting line 44. The operator can read the pressure in the second connecting line 44 from the pressure gauge 45 in real time, visually and clearly. This enables the operator to (i) check whether there is a leak between the second on-off valve 42 and the refrigerator 7 when the second on-off valve 42 is placed in the aforementioned off state (i.e., before the fluorinated liquid 3 is delivered from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7), and (ii) monitor the pressure change in the entire flow path in real time when the second on-off valve 42 is placed in the aforementioned on state to monitor the process of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7. For example, the pressure gauge 45 can be connected on the second connecting line 44 between the second on-off valve 42 and the refrigerator 7. It should be understood that the specific location of the pressure gauge 45 is not limited thereto. Furthermore, it should be understood that the pressure gauge 45 can be any suitable type of pressure measuring device, such as a mechanical or electronic pressure gauge. Figure 1 ​​As shown, the gas regulating device 40 may include a pressure reducing valve 46 connected to the first connecting line 43 and used to reduce the pressure of the gas from the gas source 50. That is, the pressure reducing valve 46 is connected between the first switching valve 41 and the gas source 50. For example, the pressure reducing valve 46 may be located between the regulating valve 42 and the gas source 50. It should be understood that the specific location of the pressure reducing valve 46 is not limited thereto. The pressure reducing valve 46 allows the liquid delivery device 1 to be adapted to gas sources providing gases at different pressures, thereby improving the versatility of the liquid delivery device 1. Exemplarily, the pressure reducing valve 46 can reduce the pressure of the gas from the gas source 50 to 0.12 MPa or any other suitable value.

[0044] It should be understood that in other embodiments, the gas regulating device 40 may not have a pressure reducing valve 46. The pressure reducing valve may be integrated into the gas source 50.

[0045] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the gas regulating device 40 may include a safety valve 47 connected to the first connecting line 43. That is, the safety valve 47 is connected between the first switching valve 41 and the gas source 50. For example, the safety valve 47 may be located between the regulating valve 42 and the pressure reducing valve 46, or between the pressure reducing valve 46 and the gas source 50. It should be understood that the specific location of the safety valve 47 is not limited thereto. The safety valve 47 is used to automatically open when the pressure in the first connecting line 43 exceeds a predetermined threshold, so as to discharge gas from the first connecting line 43 to the atmosphere surrounding the liquid delivery device 1. The safety valve 47 ensures that the pressure throughout the flow path remains below the predetermined threshold, thereby protecting the components throughout the flow path. Exemplarily, the predetermined threshold may be 0.2 MPa or any other suitable value.

[0046] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the gas outlet 22 of the gas inlet line 20 can be positioned inside the container 5 above the liquid level of the fluorinated liquid 3. As described above, this prevents the fluorinated liquid 3 from being discharged into the atmosphere via the gas inlet line 20 and the second connecting line 44 under the influence of the internal gas pressure of the container 5, even when the first switch valve 41 is in the venting state and the internal gas pressure of the container 5 is higher than the atmospheric pressure.

[0047] In other embodiments, a one-way valve may be provided on the gas inlet line 20 to prevent the fluid inside the container 5 (i.e., the gas and the fluorinated liquid 3) from flowing along the gas inlet line 20 in the direction from the gas outlet 22 toward the gas inlet 21. In this case, the gas outlet 22 of the gas inlet line 20 may be positioned inside the container 5 below the liquid level of the fluorinated liquid 3. Furthermore, the venting function can be integrated into the container 5 or the cover member 60 (described below) by adding a venting valve to the container 5 or the cover member 60 of the liquid delivery device 1.

[0048] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the liquid delivery device 1 may include a second switching valve 33 disposed on the liquid output line 30. The second switching valve 33 is configured to be operable to control the opening and closing of the liquid output line 30. That is, the second switching valve 33 is configured to switch between an on state and a closed state. When the second switching valve 33 is in the on state, it opens the liquid output line 30 to allow the fluorinated liquid 3 to flow along the liquid output line 30. When the second switching valve 33 is in the closed state, it blocks the flow in the liquid output line 30. By controlling the switching of the second switching valve 33 between the on and closed states, the process of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7 can be precisely controlled. The second switching valve 33 can be any suitable type of valve component. The second switching valve 33 can be operated manually, electrically, or pneumatically to switch between the on and closed states.

[0049] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the liquid delivery device 1 may include a one-way valve 34 disposed on the liquid outlet line 30. The one-way valve 34 is configured to allow the fluorinated liquid 3 to flow from the liquid inlet 31 towards the liquid outlet 32, while preventing the fluorinated liquid 3 from flowing from the liquid outlet 32 ​​towards the liquid inlet 31. The one-way valve 34 prevents backflow of the fluorinated liquid 3. By providing the one-way valve 34, the reliability of the liquid delivery device 1 can be improved. Furthermore, by providing the one-way valve 34, the liquid delivery device 1 can be made suitable for delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 to devices or containers with internal pressures greater than atmospheric pressure.

[0050] In some embodiments, container 5 may include an opening 5a from the outside of container 5 to the inside of container 5. Figure 2B The liquid delivery device 1 may include a cover member 60 for removably mounting to the opening 5a to seal it. Figure 1). The gas inlet line 20 and the liquid outlet line 30 can be integrated with the cover member 60. This configuration can improve the integration of the liquid delivery apparatus 1. With this configuration, the gas inlet line 20, the liquid outlet line 30 and the cover member 60 can be installed together to the container 5, thereby improving the deployment efficiency of the liquid delivery apparatus 1.

[0051] Figures 2A to 2C One version of an assembly formed by the gas inlet line 20 and the liquid outlet line 30 of the liquid delivery apparatus 1 being integrated with the cover member 60 is shown. Figure 2A is a perspective view showing the assembly being assembled to the container 5, Figure 2B is a similar perspective view, but the assembly is separated from the container 5, and Figure 2A is a similar perspective view, but the assembly is separated from the container 5, and Figure 2C is a partial cross-sectional view along line 2C-2C in Figure 2A is a partial cross-sectional view along line 2C-2C in Figures 2A to 2C The second on-off valve 33 and the check valve 34 provided on the liquid outlet line 30 are omitted in

[0052] As shown in Figure 2A and Figure 2B , the cover member 60 can be configured for detachably mounting to the opening 5a of the container 5 to seal the opening 5a. The cover member 60 can be detachably mounted to the opening 5a of the container 5 by any suitable means, such as a threaded fit or a snap fit. By "detachably mounting", it is meant that the cover member 60 can be repeatedly mounted to and detached from the opening 5a without causing substantial damage to either of the structures or their functions. The gas inlet line 20, the liquid outlet line 30 and the cover member 60 can each be made of a material resistant to corrosion by fluorinated liquids. The material can be, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The cover member 60 can be any suitable cover member for sealing the opening 5a of the container 5, and its shape is not limited to the illustrated circular shape.

[0053] The gas inlet line 20 and the liquid outlet line 30 can be integrated with the cover member 60 by any suitable means.

[0054] In some examples, the gas inlet line 20 and the liquid outlet line 30 can extend through apertures (not shown) of the cover member 60, respectively, and a seal can be formed between the gas inlet line 20 and the liquid outlet line 30 and the apertures of the cover member 60 by any suitable means.

[0055] In other examples, the gas inlet line 20 and the liquid outlet line 30 can be formed as an integral structure with the cover member 60, such as by welding or molding.

[0056] In other examples, as Figure 2CAs shown, the gas inlet line 20 can be detachably connected to the cover member 60. Specifically, the cover member 60 may include a first orifice 61 extending through the cover member 60 and a first connector 62 formed or disposed at the first orifice 61 and providing a connection port 62a on the outside of the cover member 60. The first connector 62 may be formed or disposed at the first orifice 61 in any suitable manner. For example, the first connector 62 may be integrally formed with the cover member 60, or may be detachably or non-detachably mounted at the first orifice 61. Exemplarily, the first connector 62 may be inserted into the first orifice 61. The gas inlet line 20 is detachably (e.g., threaded or snap-fit) connected from the outside of the container 5 to the connection port 62a of the first connector 62 to communicate with the interior of the container 5 through the first orifice 61. “Detachably connected” means that the gas inlet line 20 can be repeatedly installed to and removed from the first connector 62 without materially impairing either of these structures or their function. The first connector 62 can be any suitable connector, such as a quick-release connector, that is adapted to detachably connect the gas outlet 22 of the gas inlet line 20.

[0057] Optionally or additionally, such as Figure 2C As shown, the liquid outlet line 30 can be detachably connected to the cover member 60. Specifically, the cover member 60 includes a second orifice 63 extending through the cover member 60, a second connector 64 formed or disposed at the second orifice 63 and providing a connection port 64a on the outside of the cover member 60, and a third connector 65 formed or disposed at the second orifice 63 and providing a connection port 65a on the inside of the cover member 60. The second connector 64 and the third connector 65 can be formed or disposed at the second orifice 63 in a manner similar to that of the first connector 62. Therefore, such details will not be elaborated here. The liquid outlet line 30 includes two separate sections, namely a first (or external) section 30a and a second (or internal) section 30b. The first section 30a is detachably (e.g., threaded or snap-fit) connected to the connection port 64a of the second connector 64 on the outside of the container 5, and the second section 30b is detachably (e.g., threaded or snap-fit) connected to the connection port 65a of the third connector 65 on the inside of the container 5. The first section 30a and the second section 30b are interconnected via a second connector 64, a third connector 65, and a second orifice 63. One end of the first section 30a is detachably connected to the connection port 64a of the second connector 64, and the liquid outlet 32 ​​of the liquid output line 30 is located at the opposite end of the first section 30a (not in...). Figure 2C(As shown in the diagram). One end of the second segment 30b is detachably connected to the connection port 65a of the third connector 65, and the liquid inlet 31 of the liquid outlet line 30 is located at the opposite end of the second segment 30b. "Detachably connected" means that each of the first segment 30a and the second segment 30b can be repeatedly installed to and removed from the corresponding connector without materially impairing either of these structures or its function. The second connector 64 can be any suitable connector adapted to connect the first segment 30a, such as a quick-release connector. Similarly, the third connector 65 can be any suitable connector adapted to connect the second segment 30b, such as a quick-release connector.

[0058] By using any one or more of the above configurations, the component consisting of gas inlet line 20, liquid outlet line 30 and cover member 60 can be modularized, thereby facilitating its storage, transportation and maintenance.

[0059] It should be understood that the specific forms of container 5, gas inlet line 20, and liquid outlet line 30 are not limited to those described above. In other embodiments, gas inlet line 20 and liquid outlet line 30 may not be integrated with cover member 60. For example, container 5 itself may be sealed. Gas inlet line 20 and liquid outlet line 30 may be inserted directly into the interior of container 5 from the outside, for example, by piercing a seal such as a sealing membrane. In this case, cover member 60 may be omitted.

[0060] The specific configuration of the liquid conveying device 1 has been described above. The following section will describe the operation of using the liquid conveying device 1 to transport the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7, based on these specific configurations.

[0061] First, the operator can install the liquid delivery device 1 according to... Figure 1 The arrangement shown connects to the gas source 50, container 5, and refrigerator 7. Specifically, the gas inlet line 20 is configured as described above to connect the outside of container 5 to the inside of container 5, such that the gas inlet 21 is located outside container 5 and the gas outlet 22 is connected to the inside of container 5. The liquid outlet line 3 is configured as described above to connect the outside of container 5 to the inside of container 5, such that the liquid inlet 31 inside container 5 is positioned below the liquid level 3a of the fluorinated liquid 3, and the liquid outlet 32 ​​is located outside container 5 and connected to the coolant inlet port 7a of refrigerator 7. A gas regulating device 40 is connected between the gas source 50 and the gas inlet 21 of the gas inlet line 20.

[0062] Next, the operator can open the gas source 50 to supply gas and place the first on-off valve 41 in the closed state. At this time, the operator can read the pressure in the first connecting line 43 by the pressure gauge 45. If the pressure reading of the pressure gauge 45 continues to rise, it indicates that there is no leak in the flow path between the gas source 50 and the first on-off valve 41. If the second on-off valve 33 is provided on the gas input line 20, the second on-off valve 33 is also placed in the closed state.

[0063] Next, the operator can switch the first on-off valve 41 from the closed state to the on state, for example, when the pressure reading of the pressure gauge 45 rises to a predetermined value. In this case, if there is the second on-off valve 33, the second on-off valve 33 is still kept in the closed state. Immediately after the first on-off valve 41 is switched from the closed state to the on state, the pressure reading of the pressure gauge 45 decreases due to the gas entering the inside of the container 5 via the gas input line 20. Thereafter, if the pressure reading of the pressure gauge 45 continues to rise, it indicates that there is no leak in the flow path between the gas source 50 and the second on-off valve 33. When the pressure reading of the pressure gauge 45 rises to a predetermined value, the operator can switch the second on-off valve 33 from the closed state to the on state. At this time, the fluorinated liquid 3 is delivered from the inside of the container 5 to the coolant input port 7a of the refrigerator 7 via the liquid output line 30 under the action of the gas pressure in the inside of the container 5.

[0064] In other embodiments, the second on-off valve 33 can be absent. In this case, when the operator switches the first on-off valve 41 from the closed state to the on state, the process of delivering the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7 is started.

[0065] During the delivery of the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7, the flow rate of the gas flowing through the gas regulating device 40 can be adjusted by adjusting the first on-off valve 41 and / or the regulating valve 42, thereby adjusting the delivery rate of the fluorinated liquid 3 from the container 5 to the refrigerator 7.

[0066] When it is desired to stop the delivery of the fluorinated liquid 3 to the refrigerator 7, if there is the second on-off valve 33, the operator can switch the second on-off valve 33 from the on state to the closed state and switch the first on-off valve 41 from the on state to the venting state. The second on-off valve 33 can stop the fluorinated liquid 3 from continuing to flow to the refrigerator 7, and the first on-off valve 41 can rapidly reduce the gas pressure in the inside of the container 5.

[0067] In other embodiments, when it is desired to stop the delivery of fluorinated liquid 3 to chiller 7, if there is no second on-off valve 33, the operator can first switch first on-off valve 41 from the on state to the off state and wait for a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds or other suitable time) before switching first on-off valve 41 to the vent state, or switch first on-off valve 41 from the on state directly to the vent state. In this way, the delivery of fluorinated liquid 3 to chiller 7 can be stopped.

[0068] Finally, the operator can detach liquid delivery apparatus 1 from gas source 50, container 5, and chiller 7, and seal container 5.

[0069] In this way, fluorinated liquid 3 can be delivered from container 5 to chiller 7 efficiently and completely airtight.

[0070] It should be understood that, in addition to being used to deliver fluorinated liquid 3 from container 5 to chiller 7, liquid delivery apparatus 1 can also be used to deliver fluorinated liquid 3 from container 5 to other designated recipients or locations.

[0071] Furthermore, it should be understood that, in addition to being used to deliver fluorinated liquid 3, liquid delivery apparatus 1 can also be used to deliver other coolants. Such coolants can be in a liquid state at normal temperature and pressure.

[0072] It should be further understood that, in addition to being used to deliver coolants, liquid delivery apparatus 1 can also be used to deliver any suitable type of liquid (e.g., deionized water, acid, or base) from a sealed container to a designated recipient or location.

[0073] As used in this application, the term "line" refers to a flow path between two points or components, which can be constructed from various pieces of tubing, fittings, etc.

[0074] In this application, the terms "first", "second", and "third" are used only to distinguish one component or line from another, but these components, lines, and states should not be limited by such terms.

[0075] The present application has been described in detail above with specific reference to particular embodiments. It is clear, however, to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the present application, and it is to be understood that all such changes and modifications are believed to fall within the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A liquid delivery device, characterized by, The liquid delivery apparatus (1) is for delivering liquid (3) out of an interior of a sealed container (5), and comprises: a gas input line (20) having a gas inlet (21) and a gas outlet (22), the gas input line being configured for communicating an exterior of the container with an interior of the container, wherein the gas inlet is located at the exterior of the container and the gas outlet communicates with the interior of the container; a liquid output line (30) having a liquid inlet (31) and a liquid outlet (32), the liquid output line being configured for communicating the exterior of the container with the interior of the container, wherein the liquid inlet is positioned at the interior of the container below a liquid level (3a) of the liquid, and the liquid outlet is located at the exterior of the container; and a gas regulating device (40) configured for being connected between a gas source (50) and the gas inlet of the gas input line, and for regulating an interior gas pressure of the container by regulating an amount of gas input from the gas source into the interior of the container via the gas input line, to enable the liquid to be delivered out of the interior of the container via the liquid output line under the action of the interior gas pressure.

2. The liquid delivery device of claim 1, wherein, The gas regulating device comprises: a first on-off valve (41); a first connection line (43) for being connected between the gas source and the first on-off valve; and a second connection line (44) for being connected between the first on-off valve and the gas inlet; wherein the first on-off valve is configured to be switchable between at least an on state and an off state, the first on-off valve, when placed in the on state, opens the first connection line and the second connection line, and when placed in the off state, blocks the communication between the first connection line and the second connection line.

3. The liquid delivery device of claim 2, wherein, The first on-off valve is configured to be switchable between the on state, the off state, and a venting state, wherein the first on-off valve: (i) when placed in the venting state, communicates the second connection line with an atmospheric environment outside of the liquid delivery apparatus, while blocking the first connection line with respect to the second connection line and the atmospheric environment; (ii) when placed in the on state, opens the first connection line and the second connection line, while blocking the atmospheric environment with respect to the first connection line and the second connection line; and (iii) when placed in the off state, blocks the communication between the first connection line, the second connection line, and the atmospheric environment.

4. The liquid delivery apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: the gas regulating device further comprises a regulating valve (42) connected on the first connection line or the second connection line, and for regulating a flow rate of gas flowing through the gas regulating device; and / or the first on-off valve is configured to be switchable between the on state, the off state, and the venting state, wherein the first on-off valve: (i) when placed in the venting state, communicates the second connection line with an atmospheric environment outside of the liquid delivery apparatus, while blocking the first connection line with respect to the second connection line and the atmospheric environment; (ii) when placed in the on state, opens the first connection line and the second connection line, while blocking the atmospheric environment with respect to the first connection line and the second connection line; and (iii) when placed in the off state, blocks the communication between the first connection line, the second connection line, and the atmospheric environment. the gas regulating device further comprises a regulating valve (42) connected on the first connection line or the second connection line, and for regulating a flow rate of gas flowing through the gas regulating device; and / or the first on-off valve is configured to be switchable between the on state, the off state, and the venting state, wherein the first on-off valve: (i) when placed in the venting state, communicates the second connection line with an atmospheric environment outside of the liquid delivery apparatus, while blocking the first connection line with respect to the second connection line and the atmospheric environment; (ii) when placed in the on state, opens the first connection line and the second connection line, while blocking the atmospheric environment with respect to the first connection line and the second connection line; and (iii) when placed in the off state, blocks the communication between the first connection line, the second connection line, and the atmospheric environment. The first on-off valve is adjustable when placed in the on state to adjust the flow rate of the gas flowing through the gas regulating device.

5. The liquid delivery apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The gas regulating device further comprises a pressure reducing valve (46) connected on the first connection line and configured to reduce the pressure of the gas coming from the gas source.

6. The liquid delivery apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The gas regulating device further comprises a pressure gauge (45) connected on the first connection line and configured to detect and display the pressure in the first connection line.

7. The liquid delivery apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The gas regulating device further comprises a safety valve (47) connected on the first connection line and configured to automatically open when the pressure in the first connection line exceeds a predetermined threshold to discharge gas from the first connection line to the atmospheric environment surrounding the liquid delivery apparatus.

8. The liquid delivery apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The gas outlet is positioned inside the container above the liquid level of the liquid.

9. The liquid delivery apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The liquid delivery apparatus further comprises a second on-off valve (33) provided on the liquid output line and configured to be operable to control the on and off of the liquid output line.

10. The liquid delivery apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The liquid delivery apparatus further comprises a check valve (34) provided on the liquid output line and configured to allow the liquid to flow in a direction from the liquid inlet towards the liquid outlet and to prevent the liquid from flowing in a direction from the liquid outlet towards the liquid inlet.

11. The liquid delivery apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: the container has an opening (5a) leading from the outside of the container to the inside of the container; and the delivery apparatus further comprises a cover member (60) configured to be detachably mounted to the opening of the container to seal the opening, and the gas input line and the liquid output line are integrated with the cover member.

12. The liquid delivery apparatus according to claim 11, wherein: the cover member comprises a first aperture (61) extending through the cover member, a first fitting (62) formed or provided at the first aperture and providing a connection port (62a) on the outside of the cover member, and the gas input line is detachably connected to the connection port of the first fitting from the outside of the container to communicate with the inside of the container through the first aperture; and / or the cover member comprises a second aperture (63) extending through the cover member, a second fitting (64) formed or provided at the second aperture and providing a connection port (64a) on the outside of the cover member, a third fitting (65) formed or provided at the second aperture and providing a connection port (65a) on the inside of the cover member, and the liquid output line comprises a first section (30a) and a second section (30b), the first section being detachably connected to the connection port of the second fitting from the outside of the container, and the second section being detachably connected to the connection port of the third fitting from the inside of the container.

13. The liquid delivery apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, Said liquid is a coolant in a liquid state at normal temperature and pressure, and said liquid outlet of said liquid output line is configured for detachable connection to a coolant input port (7a) of a refrigerator (7).

14. The liquid delivery apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, Said liquid is a fluorinated liquid, and said gas input line and said liquid output line are made of a material resistant to corrosion by the fluorinated liquid.

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