Vapor vent valve
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- RAVAL AGRI COOP SOCIETIES
- Filing Date
- 2024-08-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-08
Smart Images
Figure IL2024050866_06032025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] VAPOR VENT VALVE
[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD
[0003] The present disclosure relates to valves, in particular to vapor vent valves.
[0004] BACKGROUND
[0005] In containers, tanks, reservoirs or the like, configured to contain a working fluid which is both in a liquid phase and a gaseous or vapor phase, it is often desirable to selectively vent the vapor phase therefrom. Such venting can be required, for example, to avoid an over-pressure situation, or for example to direct at least some of the vapor phase working fluid to a condensation arrangement, optionally for later return of the condensed working fluid in a liquid phase to the same or another container. At the same time, it is often necessary or desirable to prevent the liquid phase from being vented through the same path as the vapor phase.
[0006] Examples of such containers include, but are not limited to, fuel tanks for vehicles, including those which travel by land, water and / or air, battery pack with two-phase immersion cooling system, and the like.
[0007] In order to selectively vent the vapor phase under certain conditions, a valve is conventionally provided, configured to be opened and / or shut-off depending on at least one environmental condition in the tank, such as a level of liquid phase working fluid in the container.
[0008] GENERAL DESCRIPTION
[0009] According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a vapor vent valve for use in a two-phase fluidic environment including a liquid phase and a vapor phase, the vapor vent valve comprising a float valve arrangement, a vapor venting arrangement, and a pressure equalization arrangement, wherein: the float valve arrangement comprises a vapor inlet passage and a float member, said float member configured for floating on the liquid phase, the float member being reciprocably movable with respect to a vapor inlet passage to alternately seal or unseal said vapor inlet passage responsive to a level of liquid phase on which the float member is floating being above or below, respectively, a threshold level, the float valve arrangement comprising a valve internal passage in fluid communication with the vapor inlet passage, the vapor venting arrangement and with the pressure equalization arrangement; the vapor venting arrangement defining a vapor venting path, the vapor venting arrangement having a venting configuration in which venting of the vapor phase through the vapor venting path is permitted, and a non-venting configuration, in which venting of the vapor phase through the vapor venting path is prevented; the pressure equalization arrangement is in open fluid communication with the valve internal passage and the vapor venting arrangement; and the float valve arrangement and the pressure equalization arrangement are operatively coupled to the vapor venting arrangement to control operation of the vapor venting arrangement to thereby enable the vapor venting arrangement to transit between the non-venting configuration and the venting configuration, responsive to the level of liquid phase on which the float member is floating being above or below, respectively, said threshold level.
[0010] For example, the vapor venting arrangement comprises a separation member separating the vapor venting path from the valve internal passage, the separation member being operable to alternately:
[0011] - transit the vapor venting arrangement to the venting configuration from the non-venting configuration responsive to a pressure difference across the separation member being greater than a minimum pressure threshold, the vapor inlet passage being unsealed,
[0012] - transit the vapor venting arrangement to the non-venting configuration from the venting configuration responsive to the vapor inlet passage being sealed and the pressure equalization arrangement subsequently enabling the pressure difference to reduce to below the minimum pressure threshold.
[0013] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the pressure equalization arrangement comprises a bleed arrangement between the valve internal passage and the vapor venting arrangement, the bleed arrangement operative to provide a controlled said open fluid communication between the valve internal passage and the vapor venting arrangement.
[0014] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the vapor venting arrangement and the float valve arrangement are each accommodated in a respective housing, each housing optionally composed of a top portion and bottom portion sealed together in a fluid-tight manner, the housing of the vapor venting arrangement defining an inner chamber. For example, the housing of the vapor venting arrangement and the housing of the float valve arrangement is a common housing further comprising therein the valve internal passage. Alternatively, for example, the housing of the vapor venting arrangement and the housing of the float valve arrangement are separate from one another, the vapor venting arrangement and float valve arrangement being separate component configured to be connected to one another via a conduit, the conduit providing the valve internal passage. For example, the conduit is rigid, or, the conduit is flexible.
[0015] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the vapor venting path comprises a vapor inlet port at one end thereof and a vapor outlet port at the other end thereof. For example, a ratio of a cross-sectional area of the vapor inlet port to a cross-sectional area of the vapor inlet passage of the float valve arrangement is at least one of: in a range of between 1:2 and 1 :240; in a range between 1 :2 and 1 : 120; in a range between 1 :2 and 1 :40; in a range between 1 :8 and 1 :30; in a range between 1 : 10 and 1 :25, optionally 1 :20; 1 :2; 1 :40; 1.8.
[0016] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the housing of the vapor venting arrangement defines an inner chamber, the vapor venting arrangement further comprising a piston reciprocably mounted with respect to the vapor venting arrangement housing. For example, the piston comprises a lower piston portion accommodated within the inner chamber, and an upper piston portion that projects outside of the housing of the vapor venting arrangement. For example, the upper piston portion projects outside of the housing of the vapor venting arrangement though an opening in the surface of the housing, the opening providing the vapor inlet port; wherein the upper piston portion external to the housing of the vapor venting arrangement comprises a sealing member configured for selectively forming a fluid-tight seal around the opening; and wherein the piston with the sealing member is configured to selectively close or open the vapor inlet port in a controlled manner.
[0017] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the sealing member is provided on an underside of an enlarged head of the upper piston portion, the enlarged head being external to the housing of the vapor venting arrangement; optionally, wherein the sealing member faces an external surface of the housing of the vapor venting arrangement around the opening.
[0018] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the sealing member comprises a flexible and / or compressible polymer, elastomer or natural rubber.
[0019] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the separation member configured to separate the inner chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber; wherein the vapor venting path between the vapor inlet port and the vapor outlet port is provided exclusively by the upper chamber; and wherein the lower piston portion of the piston is sealingly connected to the separation member.
[0020] For example, the separation member comprises a separation piston. Alternatively, for example, the separation member comprises a diaphragm, sealingly connected at a top side thereof, optionally at a central portion thereof, to the lower piston portion of the piston, and sealingly connected at a peripheral edge thereof to lateral walls of the housing of the vapor venting arrangement.
[0021] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the lower piston portion of the piston is sealingly connected to a top side of the separation member, optionally at a central portion of the separation member.
[0022] Additionally or alternatively, for example, reciprocal movement of the piston along a piston axis with respect to the housing of the vapor venting arrangement is accompanied by flexure or movement of the separation member.
[0023] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the vapor vent valve further comprises a biasing member for biasing the separation member towards the lower chamber; optionally, wherein the biasing member comprises a biasing spring. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the vapor vent valve further comprises at least one mechanical stop configured to limit upward travel of the piston.
[0024] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the float member is reciprocably mounted with respect to the housing of the float valve arrangement. For example, the vapor inlet passage has at one longitudinal end thereof an inlet end facing the float member, and at the other longitudinal end thereof an outlet end facing the valve internal passage; optionally, the inlet end is provided at the end of a protrusion protruding towards the float member from an underside of the housing of the float valve arrangement.
[0025] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the vapor inlet passage is located on a bottom portion of the housing of the float valve arrangement, in a recessed portion thereof.
[0026] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the float member comprises a sealing member on a top surface thereof, the sealing member being configured for selectively closing and sealing the vapor inlet passage when the sealing member is in sealing abutment with the vapor inlet passage, thereby preventing fluid flow therethrough, and selectively being spaced from the vapor inlet passageway so as not to be in sealing abutment therewith, thereby permitting fluid flow of the vapor phase in the two-phase fluidic environment through the vapor inlet passage. For example, the sealing member comprises a flexible and / or compressible polymer, elastomer or natural rubber.
[0027] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the vapor vent valve further comprises mechanical stops for limiting a maximum spacing between the float member and the housing of the float valve arrangement.
[0028] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the float member is formed from one or more materials having positive buoyancy with respect to the liquid phase of the two- phase fluidic environment, such that the float member is capable of floating on the liquid phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, regardless of the orientation of the valve.
[0029] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the float member is shaped to trap a volume of vapor, optionally including at least a portion of the vapor phase of the two- phase fluidic environment, at least when the valve is in the upright position, such that an overall buoyancy of the float member including the trapped vapor is positive. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the float member is formed from one or more materials having neutral or negative buoyancy with respect to the liquid phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, optionally wherein the float member is shaped to trap a volume of vapor, optionally including at least the vapor phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, at least when the valve is in the upright position, such that the overall buoyancy of the float member including the trapped vapor is neutral or negative, and further comprising a biasing member, optionally a spring, for urging the float member towards the vapor inlet passage.
[0030] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the float member is configured to be spaced from the vapor inlet passage, below the vapor inlet passage, when the level of liquid phase in the two-phase fluidic environment is below the threshold level, and is configured to seal the vapor inlet passage when the level of liquid phase in the two-phase fluidic environment is at or above the threshold level.
[0031] Additionally or alternatively, for example, when the level of liquid phase in the two-phase fluidic environment is below the threshold level, the liquid phase also is below the vapor inlet port of the vapor venting path.
[0032] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the valve internal passage is in open fluid communication with the lower chamber, and wherein the bleed arrangement comprises at least one bleed orifice between the upper chamber and the lower chamber via the separation member, such as to provide the controlled open fluid communication between the upper chamber and the valve internal passage.
[0033] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the valve internal passage is in open fluid communication with the lower chamber, wherein the bleed arrangement comprises at least one bleed orifice between the upper chamber and the valve internal passage via a common wall therebetween, so as to provide said controlled open fluid communication between the upper chamber and the valve internal passage.
[0034] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the at least one bleed orifice has a cross-sectional area that is less than a flow cross-sectional area of the vapor inlet passage, optionally wherein a ratio of the bleed orifice cross sectional area to the vapor inlet flow cross sectional area is in the range 1 : 10 to 9: 10, further optionally 1 :3. Additionally or alternatively, for example: a pressure of the vapor phase outside of the valve is a first pressure; a pressure in the lower chamber is a second pressure; a pressure in the upper chamber is a third pressure; and a pressure in an exhaust conduit leading from the vapor outlet port is a fourth pressure, the first pressure being greater than the fourth pressure; wherein, in operation, the valve transitions to a venting configuration as follows:
[0035] - when the level of liquid phase is below the threshold level, and the vapor inlet passage is in open fluid communication with the vapor phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, the first and second pressures are substantially the same, the third pressure being less than the first pressure and the same or greater than the fourth pressure; and
[0036] - the vapor venting arrangement is configured for opening the vapor phase venting path when the second pressure exceeds the third pressure by more than said minimum pressure threshold, by urging the separation member upwards and thus also the piston to unseal the vapor inlet port.
[0037] For example, in operation, the valve transitions to the non-venting configuration as follows: when the level of liquid phase rises to or above the threshold level, and the vapor inlet passage is sealed by the float member, the second pressure reduces with respect to the first pressure as the second pressure and the third pressure substantially equalize via the at least one bleed orifice, whereby the vapor venting arrangement is configured for closing the vapor phase venting path, by allowing the separation member and piston to move downwards, and the piston to seal the vapor inlet port.
[0038] According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an electric battery system coupled with a two-phase immersion coolant system, comprising a valve as defined herein regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.
[0039] According to a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a component that is operative to receiving cooling via a two-phase immersion coolant system, the component comprising a valve as defined herein regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter. According to a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a fuel tank comprising a valve as defined herein regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter. For example, the fuel tank is a fuel tank of a vehicle.
[0040] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0041] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, examples will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0042] Fig. 1 shows a top isometric view of a valve for use in a two-phase fluidic environment according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter;
[0043] Fig- 2 shows a top plan view of the example of Fig. 1;
[0044] Fig- 3 shows an isometric view of a cross-section of the example of Fig. 1 taken along the section A-A;
[0045] Fig- 4 shows a cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 1 taken along the section B-B;
[0046] Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional front view of the example of Fig. 2 taken along section C-C, in a non-venting configuration;
[0047] Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional front view of the example of Fig. 2 taken along section C-C, in a venting configuration;
[0048] Fig. 7 shows a top isometric view of a valve for use in a two-phase fluidic environment according to an alternative variation of the example of Fig. 1;
[0049] Fig. 8 shows a top plan view of the example of Fig. 7;
[0050] Fig. 9 shows an isometric view of a cross-section of the example of Fig. 7 taken along the section A-A;
[0051] Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 7 taken along the section B-B;
[0052] Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional front view of the example of Fig. 8 taken along section C-C, in a non-venting configuration;
[0053] Fig. 12 shows a cross-sectional front view of the example of Fig. 8 taken along section C-C, in a venting configuration;
[0054] Fig. 13 shows a top isometric view of a valve for use in a two-phase fluidic environment according to another alternative variation of the example of Fig. 1; Fig. 14 shows a top plan view of the example of Fig. 13;
[0055] Fig. 15 shows an isometric view of a cross-section of the example of Fig. 13 taken along the section A-A;
[0056] Fig. 16 shows a cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 13 taken along the section B-B;
[0057] Fig. 17 shows a cross-sectional front view of the example of Fig. 14 taken along section C-C, in a non-venting configuration;
[0058] Fig. 18 shows a cross-sectional front view of the example of Fig. 14 taken along section C-C, in a venting configuration;
[0059] Fig. 19 shows a top isometric view of a valve for use in a two-phase fluidic environment according to an alternative variation of the example of Fig. 1;
[0060] Fig. 20 shows a top plan view of the example of Fig. 19;
[0061] Fig. 21 shows an isometric view of a cross-section of the example of Fig. 19 taken along the section A-A;
[0062] Fig. 22 shows a cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 19 taken along the section B-B;
[0063] Fig. 23 shows a cross-sectional front view of the example of Fig. 20 taken along section C-C, in a non-venting configuration;
[0064] Fig. 24 shows a cross-sectional front view of the example of Fig. 20 taken along section C-C, in a venting configuration;
[0065] Fig. 25 shows a top isometric view of a valve for use in a two-phase fluidic environment according to an alternative variation of the example of Fig. 1;
[0066] Fig. 26 shows an example container for a two-phase working fluid, comprising a valve according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter, the valve being in the non-venting configuration; and
[0067] Fig. 27 shows an example container for a two-phase working fluid, comprising a valve according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter in the venting configuration.
[0068] DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0069] Throughout the drawings and accompanying description, like features are denoted by like reference signs. According to an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a valve, in particular a vapor venting valve, for use in a two-phase fluidic environment.
[0070] By "two-phase fluidic environment" (also interchangeably referred to herein as a "fluid") is meant a fluid environment in which there co-exist therein a liquid (fluid) phase and a vapor (fluid) phase, separated by a liquid phase surface. According to the above aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the ability of the vapor phase to be vented via the valve is controlled by the level of the liquid phase in the environment relative to the valve. For example, when the level of liquid phase in the two-phase fluidic environment is below a threshold level, venting of the vapor phase via the valve is permitted, whereas when the level of liquid phase in the two-phase fluidic environment is at or above this threshold level, venting of the vapor phase via the valve is prevented. For example, such a two-phase fluid environment can be comprised of a fuel, for example a hydrocarbon fuel, or an immersion coolant.
[0071] In at least some applications, the valve according to the above aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter can be provided in electric battery systems that are coupled with two-phase immersion coolant systems, or can be coupled to any other components, for example electronic components, that require cooling via two-phase immersion coolant systems.
[0072] In at least some other applications, the valve according to the above aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter can be provided in a fuel tank, for example of a vehicle, for example a road vehicle, and operates to enable venting of fuel vapor, for example to a carbon cannister, when the level of the liquid phase of the fuel fluid is below the threshold level, while preventing such venting when the level of the liquid phase of the liquid is at the threshold level, and the tank is full, for example.
[0073] Referring to Figs. 1 to 6, a valve (also referred to interchangeably herein as "venting valve" or "vapor venting valve") for venting vapor fluid from a two-phase fluidic environment according to a first example of the presently disclosed subject matter, generally designated with reference numeral 10, comprises a float valve arrangement 40, a vapor venting arrangement 200, and a pressure equalization arrangement 300.
[0074] In at least this example, the float valve arrangement 40, the vapor venting arrangement 200, and the pressure equalization arrangement 300 are accommodated in a common housing 60, which in at least this example is composed of a top portion 62 and bottom portion 64 which seal together in a fluid-tight manner.
[0075] The valve 10, and in particular the vapor venting arrangement 200, comprises a vapor venting path 20 (also referred to interchangeably herein as "vapor phase venting path”) passing therethrough, as best seen in Fig. 6. The vapor venting path 20 comprises a vapor inlet port 22 at one end thereof and a vapor outlet port 24 at the other end thereof. In at least this example, an exhaust conduit 26 leads off from the vapor outlet port 24 to carry the vented vapor phase away from the valve 10, for example to the atmosphere or to a vapor recirculation conduit.
[0076] As will become clearer herein, during operation of the valve 10, the vapor phase of the fluid can be at a first pressure Pl, while the exhaust conduit 26 is exposed to a fourth pressure P4, wherein:
[0077] Pl > P4
[0078] The vapor venting arrangement 200 comprises a vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220, defining an inner chamber 28, and a piston 30 reciprocably mounted with respect to the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220. In at least this example, the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220 is formed as an integral part of the housing 60.
[0079] The piston 30 comprises a lower piston portion 33 accommodated within the inner chamber 28, and an upper piston portion 35 that projects outside of the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220. The upper piston portion 35 projects through a top outer surface 222 of the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220 via an opening 66 through the top portion 62 of the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220. In at least this example, the opening 66 additionally functions as the vapor inlet port 22.
[0080] The upper piston portion 35 of the piston 30 comprises an enlarged head 36 external to the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220. The piston 30, in particular the enlarged head 36, comprises a sealing member 32 on an underside thereof, the sealing member 32 facing the top outer surface 222 around the opening 66.
[0081] The sealing member 32 is configured for selectively forming a fluid seal between the sealing member 32 and the top outer surface 222 around the opening 66, and for example can be made from or include a flexible and / or compressible polymer, elastomer, natural rubber or any other suitable sealing material known to the skilled person. The piston 30 with the sealing member 32 is provided to selectively close or open the vapor inlet port 22 in a controlled manner, as will be described in more detail below.
[0082] The vapor venting arrangement 200 further comprises a separation member (also referred to interchangeably herein as a barrier member), separating the vapor venting path 20 from the valve internal passage 44. As will become clearer herein, the separation member is operable to enable alternately:
[0083] - to transit the vapor venting arrangement 200 to the venting configuration VC from the non-venting configuration NC responsive to a pressure difference AP across the separation member being greater than a minimum pressure threshold PH, the vapor inlet passage 42 being unsealed; and
[0084] - to transit the vapor venting arrangement 200 to the non-venting configuration NC from the venting configuration VC responsive to the vapor inlet passage 42 being sealed and the pressure equalization arrangement 300 subsequently and passively causing the pressure difference AP to be reduced to below the minimum pressure threshold PH.
[0085] In at least in this example the separation member is in the form of a flexible diaphragm 70. The separation member or diaphragm 70 separates the inner chamber 28 into an upper chamber 28A and a lower chamber 28B. In at least some alternative variations of this example, the separation member can be in the form of a piston, for example.
[0086] The lower piston portion 33 of the piston 30 is sealingly connected to a top side of the separation member i.e., of the diaphragm 70, at a central portion of the diaphragm 70. A peripheral edge or perimeter 72 of the diaphragm 70 is sealingly connected to lateral walls 68 of the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220. In at least this example the lateral walls 68 project in a downward direction from the top portion 62.
[0087] The vapor venting path 20 between the vapor inlet port 22 and the vapor outlet port 24 and into the exhaust conduit 26 is thus provided exclusively by the upper chamber 28A.
[0088] In at least this example, reciprocal movement of the piston 30 up and down along a piston axis PA with respect to the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220 is accompanied by flexing of the diaphragm 70. The reciprocal movement of the piston 30 is controlled by means of the float valve arrangement 40 and the pressure equalization arrangement 300, as will be described in more detail below.
[0089] Also as will become clearer herein, during operation of the valve 10, upper chamber 28A can be at a third pressure P3 and is in open fluid communication with the exhaust conduit 26 (which, as already stated, is exposed to a fourth pressure P4), while the lower chamber 28B is at a second pressure P2, and is in open fluid communication with the vapor inlet passage 42 of the float valve arrangement housing portion 240.
[0090] The vapor venting arrangement 200 is configured for opening the vapor phase venting path 20 when there is a pressure difference AP between the second pressure P2 in the lower chamber 28B (and thus valve internal passage 44) and the third pressure P3 in the upper chamber 28A, and wherein such a pressure difference AP exceeds the minimum pressure threshold PH:
[0091] AP = P2 - P3
[0092] (P2 - P3) > PH
[0093] Under such conditions, the pressure difference AP essentially acting in an upward direction against gravity (when the valve 10 is in the upright orientation) provides an upwards force Fl that is greater than the combination of the weight of the piston 30 and optionally (i.e., where present) any other downward biasing forces provided by the vapor venting arrangement 200, for example the resilience or other resistance generated by the separation member or diaphragm 70 that biases the piston 30 in a downward direction. A net upwards force thus displaces the piston 30 upwardly, thereby opening the vapor inlet port 22. Upward displacement of the piston 30 is limited via mechanical stops 31.
[0094] As will become clearer herein, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the downward biasing forces acting on the separation member or diaphragm 70 can be further increased, for example using biasing springs.
[0095] On the other hand, the vapor venting arrangement 200 is also configured for closing the vapor phase venting path 20 when the pressure difference AP between the pressure P2 in the lower chamber 28B (and thus valve internal passage 44) and the pressure P3 in the upper chamber 28A, is at or below the pressure threshold PH. Under such conditions, upwards force Fl resulting from the pressure difference AP is less than the combination of the weight of the piston 30 and optionally (i.e., if present) any other downward biasing forces (for example the resilience or other resistance generated by the separation member or diaphragm 70 that biases the piston 30 in a downward direction), and thus the piston 30 is displaced downwardly, thereby closing the vapor inlet port 22, and thus the vapor phase venting path 20.
[0096] The float valve arrangement 40 and the pressure equalization arrangement 300 are operatively coupled to the vapor venting arrangement 200 to control operation of the vapor venting arrangement 200, as will become clearer herein.
[0097] The float valve arrangement 40 comprises a float valve arrangement housing portion 240, and a float member 50 reciprocably mounted with respect to the float valve arrangement housing portion 240. In at least this example, the float valve arrangement housing portion 240 is formed as an integral part of the housing 60.
[0098] The float valve arrangement housing portion 240 defines the vapor inlet passage 42
[0099] The vapor inlet passage 42 has at one longitudinal end thereof an inlet end 42A opposite facing the float member 50, and the inlet end 42A is provided at the end of a protrusion 43 protruding towards the float member 50 from an underside of the float valve arrangement housing portion 240.
[0100] The vapor inlet passage 42 has at the other longitudinal end thereof an outlet end 42B facing the valve internal passage 44.
[0101] The vapor inlet passage 42 is provided for the selective flow therethrough of the vapor fluid phase, such that when the vapor inlet passage 42 is in open fluid communication with the vapor phase of the fluid, the 28B is at a pressure P2 that is substantially the same pressure as the pressure Pl of the vapor phase of the fluid outside the valve 10.
[0102] The vapor inlet passage 42 is located on the bottom portion 64 of the float valve arrangement housing portion 240, in a recessed portion 69 thereof.
[0103] The float member 50 comprises a sealing member 52 on a top surface thereof, and is configured for selectively closing and sealing the vapor inlet passage 42 when the sealing member 52 is in sealing abutment with the vapor inlet passage 42, thereby preventing fluid flow (in particular vapor phase fluid flow) therethrough. On the other hand, when the sealing member 52 is not in sealing abutment with the vapor inlet passage 42, and in particular are distanced one from the other, fluid flow (in particular vapor phase fluid flow) through the vapor inlet passage 42 is permitted. For example, sealing member 52 can be made from or include a flexible and / or compressible polymer, elastomer, natural rubber or any other suitable sealing material known to the skilled person.
[0104] For example, the float valve arrangement 40 can include mechanical stops or similar arrangements for limiting the maximum spacing between the float member 50 and the float valve arrangement housing portion 240 (and thus between the float member 50 and the vapor inlet passage 42).
[0105] The float member 50 is configured to float with respect to the liquid phase of the fluid, i.e., on the liquid phase surface, at least when the valve is in the upright configuration.
[0106] The float member 50 is made from one or more materials having suitable buoyancy with respect to the liquid phase of the fluid.
[0107] For example, the float member 50 can be made from one or more materials having positive buoyancy with respect to the liquid phase of the fluid, and the float member always floats on the liquid phase of the fluid, regardless of the orientation of the valve.
[0108] Alternatively, the float member 50 can be made from one or more materials having positive buoyancy with respect to the liquid phase of the fluid, and is furthermore shaped to trap a volume of vapor, for example the vapor phase of the fluid, at least when the valve is in the upright position, such that the overall buoyancy of the float member 50 including the trapped vapor is positive.
[0109] Alternatively, the float member 50 can be made from one or more materials having neutral or negative buoyancy with respect to the liquid phase of the fluid, or, the float member 50 is shaped to trap a volume of vapor, for example the vapor phase of the fluid, at least when the valve is in the upright position, such that the overall buoyancy of the float member 50 including the trapped vapor is neutral or negative. In such cases a biasing spring can be provided for urging the float member to close the vapor inlet passage 42 when supplemented by the upthrust provided by the float member when in contact with the liquid phase (for example when partially or fully submerged in the liquid phase).
[0110] Furthermore, in at least this example, the float member 50 is closed at the top thereof and has an open lower cavity 51, such that, in the upright orientation illustrated in the figures, vapor phase of the fluid always fills this cavity 51 and is trapped therein, rendering the float member 50 positively buoyant with respect to the liquid phase of the fluid, thereby enabling the float member 50 to float on the liquid phase of the fluid when the float member 50 is partially immersed in the liquid phase, and further enabling the float member 50 to be displaced in an upward direction with the liquid phase, when the level of the liquid phase surface of the liquid phase is raised further.
[0111] For example, the sealing member 52 of the float member 50 is configured to be spaced from the vapor inlet passage 42, below the vapor inlet passage 42, when the level of liquid phase LV in the two-phase fluidic environment is below a threshold level Tl, and is additionally configured to seal the vapor inlet passage 42 when the level of liquid phase LV in the two-phase fluidic environment is at or above the threshold level Tl.
[0112] It is to be noted that below the threshold level Tl, the level of liquid phase LV in the two-phase fluidic environment is not high enough with respect to the lateral sides of the valve 10 to be able to enter the vapor inlet port 22. In other words, when the valve 10 is upright, liquid phase of the fluid cannot normally enter the vapor phase venting path 20. This prevents accidental leakage of liquid phase into the vapor phase venting path 20.
[0113] The float member 50 moves within the recessed portion 69 of the bottom portion 64 of the housing, being relatively more received within the recessed portion when the level of liquid phase LV is at the threshold level Tl and being relatively decreasingly received as the level of liquid phase LV falls increasingly below the threshold level Tl.
[0114] On the other hand, in at least this example, if the orientation of the valve 10 is inverted from that shown in the figures, liquid phase of the fluid can immediately fill the lower cavity 51, and the combined weight of the float member 50 and the liquid phase contained in the cavity 51 cause the float member 50 to sealingly abut against the vapor inlet passage 42, thereby closing off fluid flow therethrough, and thus preventing liquid phase of the fluid from passing through the valve 10, in particular into the vapor venting arrangement 200 and possibly out of the valve 10 via the vapor outlet port 24. In at least this example, the float member 50 is optionally provided with a recess 54 underneath the sealing member 52 generally complementary to the protruding shape of the protrusion 43, allowing the sealing member 52, when pressed against a lip of the vapor inlet passage 42, to move downward into the recess 54, such that the float member 50 can move upwards further and provide a better seal of the vapor inlet passage 42.
[0115] In at least some alternative variations of this example, in which the float member is made from materials having very positive buoyancy or in which there is no open bottom end of the float member, for example, it is possible that even in the inverted position the float member will still float and thus not prevent ingress of the liquid phase into the vapor inlet passage 42.
[0116] In at least this example, the float member 50 is provided having a suitable weight such that, once the liquid level drops below the threshold level Tl, the weight of the float member 50 is enough to allow the float member 50 to separate from the vapor inlet passage 42 relatively quickly, overcoming the counter force as a result of the vapor pressure Pl, for example 100 mbar to 300 mbar, and any suction that can be present at the vapor inlet passage 42 via the open area Ao thereof. In examples in which the float member has neutral or negative buoyancy and including a suitable biasing spring, then the weight of the float member 50 should overcome the counter force as a result of the vapor pressure Pl, for example 100 mbar to 300 mbar, the spring force and any suction that can be present at the vapor inlet passage 42 via the open area Ao thereof. While in at least this example, the float member 50 is not additionally weighted, in at least some alternative variations of this example the float member 50 can optionally be provided with additional ballast weight to optimize the sensitivity of the float-member to the level of liquid phase fluid LV.
[0117] With reference to the float valve arrangement 40, the vapor inlet passage 42 is in open fluid communication, via the fluid-tight passageway provided by valve internal passage 44, with respect to lower chamber 28B and thus with respect to an underside of the separation member or diaphragm 70.
[0118] In at least this example, the valve internal passage 44 is provided by an enclosed sealed space between the top and bottom portions 62, 64 of the housing 60. The pressure equalization arrangement 300 comprises a bleed arrangement between the valve internal passage 42 and the vapor venting arrangement 200, the bleed arrangement being operative to provide a controlled open fluid communication between the valve internal passage 42 and the vapor venting arrangement 200. Such a bleed arrangement allows selective and controlled bleeding of vapor phase therethrough, between the valve internal passage 42 and the vapor venting arrangement 200.
[0119] In at least this example, the bleed arrangement includes at least one bleed orifice 80. Thus, in at least this example, the pressure equalization arrangement 300 is configured to provide a controlled open fluid communication between the upper chamber 28A and the valve internal passage 44 including the lower chamber 28B, via the bleed orifice 80.
[0120] The bleed arrangement, in particular the bleed orifice 80, has a cross-sectional flow area A2 that is less than the flow cross-sectional area Ai of the vapor inlet passage 42. For example a ratio of A2 / A1 can be in the range 10% to 90%, and optionally 33%.
[0121] The bleed orifice 80 is configured for enabling a small bleed flow to continuously flow from the valve internal passage 44 to the upper chamber 28A in the venting configuration.
[0122] When the vapor inlet passage 42 is open (i.e., the level LV of the liquid phase is below the threshold level Tl), there is a continual bleed flow from the valve internal passage 44 to the upper chamber 28A, but such a flow is continuously replenished by flow of vapor phase into the vapor inlet passage 42. Since the cross-sectional area A2 of the bleed orifice 80 is less than the flow cross-sectional area Ai of the vapor inlet passage 42, the pressure P2 is maintained close to pressure Pl. In general, the smaller the ratio of A2 / A1, the closer that pressure P2 is to pressure Pl.
[0123] On the other hand, when the vapor inlet passage 42 is closed (i.e., the level LV of the liquid phase is at or above the threshold level Tl), there is no more vapor flow into the valve internal passage 44 via the vapor inlet passage 42; however, there is initially a continuing bleed flow from the valve internal passage 44 to the upper chamber 28A so long as the pressure difference AP is not zero. However, in these circumstances, as more and more vapor phase in the valve internal passage 44 is bled to the upper chamber 28A via the bleed orifice 80, the pressure difference correspondingly reduces to below the pressure threshold PH, and eventually the pressures P2 and P3 equalize. In general, the larger the cross-sectional area A2 of the bleed orifice 80, the faster the pressure difference AP reaches below the pressure threshold PH.
[0124] In at least this example, the bleed office 80 is located on the diaphragm 70, as best seen in Fig. 6 for example. However, any suitable location can be provided for the bleed orifice, for example as will become clearer herein.
[0125] In at least this example, the pressure equalization arrangement 300 comprises a single bleed orifice 80. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the pressure equalization arrangement can instead comprise a plurality of bleed orifices.
[0126] The valve 10 can be operated in venting configuration VC or in non-venting configuration NC, depending on whether the level LV of the liquid phase of the fluid is below the threshold level Tl, or at or above the threshold level Tl, respectively. Typically, the valve 10 transitions between the venting configuration VC and the nonventing configuration NC as the level of liquid phase LV correspondingly transitions between below the threshold level Tl and at or above the threshold level Tl.
[0127] Referring in particular to Fig. 6, the valve 10 operates in venting configuration VC when the level LV of the liquid phase of the fluid is below the threshold level Tl. The vapor inlet passage 42 of the float valve arrangement 40 is not sealed by the sealing member 52 of the float member 50, and the sealing member 52 is spaced from the vapor inlet passage 42. Consequently, the first pressure Pl of the vapor phase outside of the valve 10 is nominally the same as (or can be slightly higher than, for example 5% or less higher than) the second pressure P2 of the vapor phase within the valve internal passage 44 and lower chamber 28B, and thus at a lower side of, i.e. below, the diaphragm 70. Above the diaphragm 70, i.e., in the upper chamber 28A, the vapor phase is at the third pressure P3, which is less than the second pressure P2 but the same or greater than the fourth pressure P4 of vapor phase flowing away from the valve 10 via the exhaust conduit 26
[0128] Under these conditions, the pressure difference AP (= P2 - P3) is greater than the pressure threshold PH and thus of sufficient magnitude that, when acting over the exposed area of the diaphragm 70, generates an upwards force Fl of sufficient magnitude to raise the piston 30 to the open position against the weight of the piston 30 (and possibly other downward biasing forces generated by the vapor venting arrangement 200). With the vapor inlet port 22 thus open, vapor phase from outside the valve 10 enters the vapor venting path 20 and is vented out via the exhaust conduit 26.
[0129] This venting configuration VC is maintained so long as the fourth pressure P4 is substantially less than the first pressure Pl, and the level LV of liquid phase is below the threshold level Tl. In the venting configuration VC there is continuous venting of vapor phase into the upper chamber 28A via the bleed orifice 80.
[0130] Referring to Fig. 5, as the level of the liquid phase of the fluid LV rises to reach the threshold level Tl, the float member 50 moves upwards until the sealing member 52 seals the vapor inlet passage 42 of the float valve arrangement 40, causing the valve 10 to transition to the non-venting configuration NC.
[0131] At this point, and in the absence of vapor phase flow from outside the valve 10 and into the vapor inlet passage 42, the initial pressure difference AP still causes the vapor fluid flow from the valve internal passage 44 and lower chamber 28B into the upper chamber 28A via the bleed orifice 80. However, since this flow is no longer replenished via the vapor inlet passage 42 in the non-venting configuration NC, the second pressure P2 thus diminishes, reaching a magnitude corresponding to the pressure threshold PH, and eventually equalizing with the third pressure such that the pressure difference AP has a nominal zero value.
[0132] Already when the pressure difference AP is at or just below the pressure threshold PH, the upward force Fl is greatly diminished due to the insufficient pressure difference across the diaphragm 70, and the magnitude of force Fl is less than the weight and other downward biasing forces acting on the piston 30, which consequently drops and sealingly closes the vapor inlet port 22. At this point there is no more venting through the exhaust conduit 26.
[0133] As the pressure difference AP reaches a nominal zero value, the second pressure P2 and the third pressure P3 become nominally equal to one another and to the fourth pressure P4.
[0134] In the non-venting configuration NC, even if the level of liquid phase LV keeps on increasing, reaching the level of the vapor inlet port 22, or even submerging most of the valve 10, the vapor venting path 20 remains closed. In this manner, a rise in the level of liquid phase fluid LV to a level at or above the threshold level T1 causes the vapor inlet port 22 to be sealed shut and prevents accidental ingress of liquid-phase fluid into the vapor venting path 20.
[0135] As the liquid level drops again below the threshold level Tl, the weight of the float member 50 causes the float member 50 to move downwards, creating a gap between the sealing member 52 of the float member 50 and the vapor inlet passage 42 of the float valve arrangement 40, and thus opening the vapor inlet passage 42. Consequently, the second pressure P2 in the valve internal passage 44 between the vapor inlet passage 42 and the underside of the diaphragm 70 rises until it is the same nominally as the first pressure Pl of the vapor phase outside of the valve 10. The increased magnitude of the second pressure P2 is significantly greater than the third pressure P3 above the diaphragm 70, and the resulting pressure difference AP, once it exceeds the pressure threshold PH, causes the piston 30 to rise again and thus transition the valve 10 to the venting configuration VC.
[0136] It is to be noted that operation of the vapor venting arrangement 200 to open or close the vapor venting path 20 is thus via the level of the second pressure P2, which is in turn controlled via the sealing state of float valve 50 and the passive bleeding provided by the pressure equalization arrangement 300. Thus, even in implementation of this example in which the flow area of the vapor inlet port 22 and the vapor venting path 20 can be relatively large, the float valve 50 and in particular the flow area of the vapor inlet passage 42 can be relatively small, and this separation of functions can enable the size of the valve 10 to be reduced substantially as compared with theoretically omitting the vapor venting arrangement 200 entirely and allowing the vented vapor phase of the fluid to pass directly from the vapor inlet passage 42 to the exhaust conduit 26, for example.
[0137] An alternative variation of the first example of Figs. 1 to 6 is illustrated in Figs. 7 to 12, and includes all the features of, and operates in a similar manner to, the first example, mutatis mutandis, with the following difference.
[0138] In the example of Figs. 7 to 12, the respective vapor venting arrangement 200 additionally comprises a biasing spring 90 that is coupled to the piston 30 and to the inside of the upper chamber 28A. The biasing spring 90 is preloaded to urge the piston 30 towards the closed position illustrated in Fig. 11 and correspondingly the non-venting configuration NC. Thus, in operation of the example of Figs. 7 to 12, in the venting configuration VC, and referring to Fig. 12, the pressure difference AP has to be of sufficient magnitude that the respective upwards force Fl overcomes the weight of the piston 30, any resilience of the diaphragm 70, and also the biasing spring force generated by the spring 90.
[0139] Another alternative variation of the first example of Figs. 1 to 6 is illustrated in Figs. 13 to 18, and includes all the features of, and operates in a similar manner to, the first example, mutatis mutandis, with the following difference.
[0140] In the example of Figs. 13 to 18, the respective bleed hole 80 is provided on the lateral walls 68 of the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220 in addition to or instead of in the diaphragm 70.
[0141] Another alternative variation of the first example of Figs. 1 to 6 is illustrated in Figs. 19 to 24, and includes all the features of, and operates in a similar manner to, the first example, mutatis mutandis, with the following differences.
[0142] In the example of Figs. 19 to 24, the respective bleed hole 80 is provided on the lateral walls 68 of the vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220 in addition to or instead of in the diaphragm 70.
[0143] Furthermore, in the example of Figs. 19 to 24, the respective vapor venting arrangement 200 additionally comprises a biasing spring 90 that is coupled to the piston 30 and to the inside of the upper chamber 28A. The biasing spring 90 is preloaded to urge the piston 30 towards the closed position illustrated in Fig. 23 and correspondingly the non-venting configuration NC, similar to the example illustrated in Figs. 7 to 12, mutatis mutandis.
[0144] Thus, in operation of the example of Figs. 19 to 24, in the venting configuration VC, and referring to Fig. 24, the pressure difference AP has to be of sufficient magnitude that the respective upwards force Fl overcomes the weight of the piston 30, any resilience of the diaphragm 70, and also the biasing spring force generated by the spring 90.
[0145] Another alternative variation of the first example of Figs. 1 to 6 is illustrated in Fig. 25, and includes all the features of, and operates in a similar manner to, the first example, mutatis mutandis, with the following difference. Alternatively, the example of Fig. 25 can correspond to any of the examples of Figs. 7 to 24, mutatis mutandis, with the following difference.
[0146] In the example of Fig. 25, the respective vapor venting arrangement housing portion 220 and the respective the float valve arrangement housing portion 240 are not integrally formed with one another. Rather, the corresponding vapor venting arrangement 200 and the respective the float valve arrangement 40 are provided as separate components, and a distinct conduit 290 interconnects the two, to provide fluid communication between the respective vapor inlet passage 42, the valve internal passage 44 and the lower chamber 28B.
[0147] The conduit 290 can be flexible or rigid.
[0148] The general set up provided by the example of Fig. 25 enables the two components - the corresponding vapor venting arrangement 200 and the respective the float valve arrangement 40 - to be separately mounted within a tank that provider the two-phase fluidic environment. Furthermore, the general set up provided by the example of Fig. 25 enables the two components - the corresponding vapor venting arrangement 200 and the respective the float valve arrangement 40 - to be separated by any desired spacing, by providing a conduit 290 of suitable length to connect therebetween.
[0149] In all of the above examples, the vapor inlet port 22 has a cross sectional area A3 which is significantly larger than a cross-sectional area Ai of the vapor inlet passage 42 of the float valve arrangement 40, optionally in a ratio AI:A3 between 1 :2 to 1 :240, optionally between 1 :2 to 1 : 120, optionally between 1 :2 and 1 :40, optionally 1 :2, optionally 1 :40, optionally between 1 :8 and 1 :30, optionally 1 :8, optionally between 1 : 10 and 1 :25, optionally 1 :20. In any arrangement falling within the scope of the present disclosure, a same-sized vapor inlet passage 42 is suitable for use with a range of different sizes of vapor inlet ports 22.
[0150] Consequently, only a relatively small float member 50 (for example of relative small area Ao corresponding to float member diameter D) is required in order to control the shut-off of a relatively large area A3 vapor inlet port 22, as compared to arrangements whereby a relatively large float is required to shut-off the same-sized vapor inlet port directly (rather than via a float valve arrangement 40 and vapor inlet passage 42 arrangement and the pressure equalization arrangement 300). The valve 10 according to any of the above examples can be used in any number of applications, such as, but not limited to, fuel tanks, battery systems that are coupled with two-phase immersion coolant systems, or any other components, for example electronic components, that require cooling via two-phase immersion coolant systems. Accordingly, as shown in Figs. 26 and 27, a container 400 comprises the valve of any one of the preceding examples. The container 400 can be, for example, but without limitation, a fuel tank, battery coolant tank, fluid reservoir or any other container configured to simultaneously contain a working fluid in two phases, namely a liquid phase and a vapor phase.
[0151] As shown, when the level of liquid phase working fluid LV is below a threshold level T1 (see Fig. 27), the valve 10 is open in the venting configuration VC, in the manner described above, thereby permitting venting of vapor phase working fluid. When the level of liquid phase working fluid LV is at or above the threshold level T1 (see Fig. 26), the valve 10 is closed in the non-venting configuration NC, in the manner described above, thereby preventing venting of vapor phase working fluid.
[0152] Finally, it should be noted that the word “comprising” as used throughout the appended claims is to be interpreted to mean “including but not limited to”.
[0153] While there has been shown and disclosed examples in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter, it will be appreciated that many changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter as set out in the claims.
Claims
CLAIMS:
1. A vapor vent valve for use in a two-phase fluidic environment including a liquid phase and a vapor phase, the vapor vent valve comprising a float valve arrangement, a vapor venting arrangement, and a pressure equalization arrangement, wherein: the float valve arrangement comprises a vapor inlet passage and a float member, said float member configured for floating on the liquid phase, the float member being reciprocably movable with respect to a vapor inlet passage to alternately seal or unseal said vapor inlet passage responsive to a level of liquid phase on which the float member is floating being above or below, respectively, a threshold level, the float valve arrangement comprising a valve internal passage in fluid communication with the vapor inlet passage, the vapor venting arrangement and with the pressure equalization arrangement; the vapor venting arrangement defining a vapor venting path, the vapor venting arrangement having a venting configuration in which venting of the vapor phase through the vapor venting path is permitted, and a non-venting configuration, in which venting of the vapor phase through the vapor venting path is prevented; the pressure equalization arrangement is in open fluid communication with the valve internal passage and the vapor venting arrangement; and the float valve arrangement and the pressure equalization arrangement are operatively coupled to the vapor venting arrangement to control operation of the vapor venting arrangement to thereby enable the vapor venting arrangement to transit between the non-venting configuration and the venting configuration, responsive to the level of liquid phase on which the float member is floating being above or below, respectively, said threshold level.
2. The vapor vent valve according to claim 1 , wherein the vapor venting arrangement comprises a separation member separating the vapor venting path from the valve internal passage, the separation member being operable to alternately:- transit the vapor venting arrangement to the venting configuration from the non-venting configuration responsive to a pressure difference across the separation member being greater than a minimum pressure threshold, the vapor inlet passage being unsealed, transit the vapor venting arrangement to the non-venting configuration from the venting configuration responsive to the vapor inlet passage being sealedand the pressure equalization arrangement subsequently enabling the pressure difference to reduce to below the minimum pressure threshold.
3. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the pressure equalization arrangement comprises a bleed arrangement between the valve internal passage and the vapor venting arrangement, the bleed arrangement operative to provide a controlled said open fluid communication between the valve internal passage and the vapor venting arrangement.
4. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the vapor venting arrangement and the float valve arrangement are each accommodated in a respective housing, each housing optionally composed of a top portion and bottom portion sealed together in a fluid-tight manner, the housing of the vapor venting arrangement defining an inner chamber.
5. The vapor vent valve according to claim 4, wherein the housing of the vapor venting arrangement and the housing of the float valve arrangement is a common housing further comprising therein the valve internal passage.
6. The vapor vent valve according to claim 4, wherein the housing of the vapor venting arrangement and the housing of the float valve arrangement are separate from one another, the vapor venting arrangement and float valve arrangement being separate component configured to be connected to one another via a conduit, the conduit providing the valve internal passage.
7. The vapor vent valve according to claim 6, wherein the conduit is rigid.
8. The vapor vent valve according to claim 6, wherein the conduit is flexible.
9. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the vapor venting path comprises a vapor inlet port at one end thereof and a vapor outlet port at the other end thereof.
10. The vapor vent valve according to claim 9, wherein a ratio of a cross-sectional area of the vapor inlet port to a cross-sectional area of the vapor inlet passage of the float valve arrangement is at least one of:• in a range of between 1 :2 and 1 :240;• In a range between 1 :2 and 1 : 120;• In a range between 1 :2 and 1 :40;• in a range between 1 :8 and 1 :30;• in a range between 1 : 10 and 1 :25, optionally 1 :20;• 1 :2;• 1 :40;• 1.8.
11. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 9 to 10, wherein the housing of the vapor venting arrangement defines an inner chamber, the vapor venting arrangement further comprising a piston reciprocably mounted with respect to the vapor venting arrangement housing.
12. The vapor vent valve according to claim 11, wherein the piston comprises a lower piston portion accommodated within the inner chamber, and an upper piston portion that projects outside of the housing of the vapor venting arrangement.
13. The vapor vent valve according to claim 12, wherein the upper piston portion projects outside of the housing of the vapor venting arrangement though an opening in the surface of the housing, the opening providing the vapor inlet port; wherein the upper piston portion external to the housing of the vapor venting arrangement comprises a sealing member configured for selectively forming a fluid-tight seal around the opening; and wherein the piston with the sealing member is configured to selectively close or open the vapor inlet port in a controlled manner.
14. The vapor vent valve according to claim 13, wherein the sealing member is provided on an underside of an enlarged head of the upper piston portion, the enlarged head being external to the housing of the vapor venting arrangement; optionally, wherein the sealing member faces an external surface of the housing of the vapor venting arrangement around the opening.
15. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein the sealing member comprises a flexible and / or compressible polymer, elastomer or natural rubber.
16. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the separation member configured to separate the inner chamber into an upper chamber and a lower chamber;wherein the vapor venting path between the vapor inlet port and the vapor outlet port is provided exclusively by the upper chamber; and wherein the lower piston portion of the piston is sealingly connected to the separation member.
17. The vapor vent valve according to claim 16, wherein the separation member comprises a separation piston.
18. The vapor vent valve according to claim 16, wherein the separation member comprises a diaphragm, sealingly connected at a top side thereof, optionally at a central portion thereof, to the lower piston portion of the piston, and sealingly connected at a peripheral edge thereof to lateral walls of the housing of the vapor venting arrangement.
19. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the lower piston portion of the piston is sealingly connected to a top side of the separation member, optionally at a central portion of the separation member.
20. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein reciprocal movement of the piston along a piston axis with respect to the housing of the vapor venting arrangement is accompanied by flexure or movement of the separation member.
21. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 16 to 20, further comprising a biasing member for biasing the separation member towards the lower chamber; optionally, wherein the biasing member comprises a biasing spring.
22. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 11 to 21, further comprising at least one mechanical stop configured to limit upward travel of the piston.
23. The vapor vent valve according to claim 4 or any one of claims 5 to 22 when dependent, directly or indirectly, from claim 4, wherein the float member is reciprocably mounted with respect to the housing of the float valve arrangement.
24. The vapor vent valve according to claim 23, wherein the vapor inlet passage has at one longitudinal end thereof an inlet end facing the float member, and at the other longitudinal end thereof an outlet end facing the valve internal passage; optionally wherein, the inlet end is provided at the end of a protrusion protruding towards the float member from an underside of the housing of the float valve arrangement.
25. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 23 to 24, wherein the vapor inlet passage is located on a bottom portion of the housing of the float valve arrangement, in a recessed portion thereof.
26. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the float member comprises a sealing member on a top surface thereof, the sealing member being configured for selectively closing and sealing the vapor inlet passage when the sealing member is in sealing abutment with the vapor inlet passage, thereby preventing fluid flow therethrough, and selectively being spaced from the vapor inlet passageway so as not to be in sealing abutment therewith, thereby permitting fluid flow of the vapor phase in the two-phase fluidic environment through the vapor inlet passage.
27. The vapor vent valve according to claim 26, wherein the sealing member comprises a flexible and / or compressible polymer, elastomer or natural rubber.
28. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 23 to 27, further comprising mechanical stops for limiting a maximum spacing between the float member and the housing of the float valve arrangement.
29. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein the float member is formed from one or more materials having positive buoyancy with respect to the liquid phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, such that the float member is capable of floating on the liquid phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, regardless of the orientation of the valve.
30. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein the float member is shaped to trap a volume of vapor, optionally including at least a portion of the vapor phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, at least when the valve is in the upright position, such that an overall buoyancy of the float member including the trapped vapor is positive.
31. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 23 to 29, wherein the float member is formed from one or more materials having neutral or negative buoyancy with respect to the liquid phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, optionally wherein the float member is shaped to trap a volume of vapor, optionally including at least the vapor phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, at least when the valve is in the uprightposition, such that the overall buoyancy of the float member including the trapped vapor is neutral or negative; further comprising a biasing member, optionally a spring, for urging the float member towards the vapor inlet passage.
32. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the float member is configured to be spaced from the vapor inlet passage, below the vapor inlet passage, when the level of liquid phase in the two-phase fluidic environment is below the threshold level, and is configured to seal the vapor inlet passage when the level of liquid phase in the two-phase fluidic environment is at or above the threshold level.
33. The vapor vent valve according to claim 9 or any one of claims 10 to 32 when dependent directly or indirectly from claim 9, wherein when the level of liquid phase in the two-phase fluidic environment is below the threshold level, the liquid phase also is below the vapor inlet port of the vapor venting path.
34. The vapor vent valve according to claim 9 or any one of claims 10 to 33 when dependent directly or indirectly from claim 9, wherein the valve internal passage is in open fluid communication with the lower chamber, and wherein the bleed arrangement comprises at least one bleed orifice between the upper chamber and the lower chamber via the separation member, such as to provide the controlled open fluid communication between the upper chamber and the valve internal passage.
35. The vapor vent valve according to claim 9 or any one of claims 10 to 34 when dependent directly or indirectly from claim 9, wherein the valve internal passage is in open fluid communication with the lower chamber, wherein the bleed arrangement comprises at least one bleed orifice between the upper chamber and the valve internal passage via a common wall therebetween, so as to provide said controlled open fluid communication between the upper chamber and the valve internal passage.
36. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 34 to 35, wherein the at least one bleed orifice has a cross-sectional area that is less than a flow cross-sectional area of the vapor inlet passage, optionally wherein a ratio of the bleed orifice cross sectional area to the vapor inlet flow cross sectional area is in the range 1 : 10 to 9: 10, further optionally 1 :3.
37. The vapor vent valve according to any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein:- a pressure of the vapor phase outside of the valve is a first pressure;- a pressure in the lower chamber is a second pressure;- a pressure in the upper chamber is a third pressure; and- a pressure in an exhaust conduit leading from the vapor outlet port is a fourth pressure, the first pressure being greater than the fourth pressure; wherein, in operation, the valve transitions to a venting configuration as follows:- when the level of liquid phase is below the threshold level, and the vapor inlet passage is in open fluid communication with the vapor phase of the two-phase fluidic environment, the first and second pressures are substantially the same, the third pressure being less than the first pressure and the same or greater than the fourth pressure; and- the vapor venting arrangement is configured for opening the vapor phase venting path when the second pressure exceeds the third pressure by more than said minimum pressure threshold, by urging the separation member upwards and thus also the piston to unseal the vapor inlet port.
38. The vapor vent valve according to claim 37, wherein, in operation, the valve transitions to the non-venting configuration as follows: when the level of liquid phase rises to or above the threshold level, and the vapor inlet passage is sealed by the float member, the second pressure reduces with respect to the first pressure as the second pressure and the third pressure substantially equalize via the at least one bleed orifice, whereby the vapor venting arrangement is configured for closing the vapor phase venting path, by allowing the separation member and piston to move downwards, and the piston to seal the vapor inlet port.
39. An electric battery system coupled with a two-phase immersion coolant system, comprising a valve as defined in any one of claims 1 to 38.
40. A component that is operative to receiving cooling via a two-phase immersion coolant system, the component comprising a valve as defined in any one of claims 1 to 38.
41. A fuel tank comprising a valve as defined in any one of claims 1 to 38.
42. The fuel tank according to claim 41, wherein the fuel tank is a fuel tank of a vehicle.