Fast fill valve for a closed loop fluid system

Abstract

To provide a high-speed filling valve for greatly speeding up procedures for filling and testing a closed-loop fluid system.SOLUTION: A fluid control system having a fast fill valve for expedited filling and draining of a closed loop system, allowing the loop to be temporarily opened to allow filling without a separate vacuum process. The valve operates in two positions, an open position for rapid, one way fluid ingress and resistanceless air egress, and a closed position for positive sealing during normal operation. Some embodiments include vacuum-assisted air egress concurrent with filling.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Examples of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of filling processes for closed-loop fluid systems. More specifically, some examples relate to the design and implementation of methods for the efficient introduction, circulation, and management of fluids within systems essential to the automotive, aerospace, heavy machinery, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industries. [Background technology]

[0002] Closed-loop fluid systems can be important components in various industrial and automotive applications, particularly for thermal management and cooling purposes. Traditional methods for filling these systems with coolants or other working fluids involve multi-step processes that can be time-consuming and inefficient. The process may include one or more of the following: positive pressure or vacuum leak testing, a vacuum step to remove air, and finally the introduction of coolant. This traditional approach not only requires significant time, but can also create air pockets in the system, which can impair performance and lead to maintenance issues. Air pockets typically require extraction, which can be time-consuming. Furthermore, the industry is facing an increasing need to improve manufacturing efficiency and reduce costs while maintaining high quality and reliability standards. The time spent filling and testing fluid systems is a significant factor in production throughput and operating costs. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0003] To easily identify the description of any particular element or operation, the most significant digit(s) of a reference number refers to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.

[0004] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fast fill valve, in accordance with certain examples.

[0005] [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fast fill valve, in accordance with certain examples.

[0006] [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fast fill valve, in accordance with certain examples.

[0007] [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fast fill valve, in accordance with certain examples.

[0008] [Figure 5] 1A-1C illustrate cross sections of internal valve components of a fast fill valve, in accordance with certain examples.

[0009] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fast fill valve, in accordance with certain examples, where the valve body of the fast fill valve is incorporated into a fluid reservoir of a closed-loop fluid system.

[0010] [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fast fill valve, in accordance with certain examples, where the valve body of the fast fill valve is incorporated into a fluid reservoir of a closed-loop fluid system.

[0011] [Figure 8] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fast fill valve, in accordance with certain examples, where the valve body of the fast fill valve is incorporated into a fluid reservoir of a closed-loop fluid system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In industrial and automotive manufacturing, the efficiency of closed-loop fluid systems can be critical, particularly with regard to thermal management and cooling of machines and vehicles. Traditional methodologies for filling these systems can often present production bottlenecks, involving tedious steps that not only consume valuable time but also increase the risk of introducing air into the system, potentially compromising system performance and lifespan. The industry's quest for enhanced manufacturing processes has led to a demand for innovative solutions that can streamline the fluid filling stage, thereby reducing cycle times and associated costs while maintaining strict quality standards.

[0013] Some examples herein aim to optimize processes, reduce cycle times, and increase the overall efficiency of production lines. In light of traditional challenges, some examples aim to provide advances in fluid control technology that can speed up the filling process, ensure accurate fluid levels, and maintain system integrity. Such improvements can be beneficial in reducing manufacturing time and minimizing the chance of errors, ultimately resulting in cost savings and increased production capacity.

[0014] Examples of the present disclosure seek to address current needs by introducing a novel fluid control system equipped with a fast fill valve that significantly speeds up the filling and testing procedures of closed-loop fluid systems. According to certain examples, the fast fill valve operates in one or more positions, including an open position that facilitates rapid and directional fluid entry, and a closed position that provides an airtight seal for normal functioning of the system as a closed-loop system.

[0015] The valve can be positioned downstream of the vent passageway within a specified volumetric distance to optimize the filling process and air evacuation. In some examples, the specified volumetric distance can be determined by the flow division in the directions forward and backward of the fast fill valve. For example, flow division can refer to the separation or distribution of fluid flow within a system, particularly at junctions or points where flow paths branch. Flow division can be influenced by factors such as system geometry, pressure differentials, and the placement of components such as valves or filling interfaces. This ensures that air within the system is efficiently directed toward the vent passageway during the filling process to allow its evacuation and prevent the formation of air pockets that can impair system performance.

[0016] This volumetric distance is defined as the amount of fluid volume in the system between the vent passage and the valve, and can be, for example, up to 500 milliliters (mL). This ensures that air within the system is efficiently directed toward the vent passage during the filling process, allowing it to escape and preventing the formation of air pockets that could impair system performance.

[0017] The vent passage can be located in various parts of the system depending on design preference. In some instances, it is part of the fluid reservoir and is positioned to allow air to flow out of the system. Alternatively, the vent passage can be incorporated into the valve assembly itself, allowing the valve to allow fluid into the system and air to flow out through the same node via one or more specially configured channels or passages.

[0018] In some examples, the control valve includes a set of snap features. For example, a valve body that interfaces with a fluid hose in a closed-loop fluid system is constructed to house an internal valve component that is designed to function as a one-way valve when in a first position to facilitate the fluid filling process, and then allow fluid to circulate through the system when in a second position, which is the system's normal operating condition.

[0019] A set of snap features are incorporated into the surface of the valve body and are matched to corresponding complementary features on the internal valve component. The snap features are configured to securely engage when the internal valve component is in either the first or second position. When the internal valve component is in the first position, the snap features hold it in place to allow one-way fluid flow into the system. This position is typically used during the filling process, when the valve facilitates the rapid introduction of fluid while preventing backflow.

[0020] Once the filling process is complete, the internal valve components are transitioned to a second position, in which the snap features engage a different set of corresponding locations on the valve body and internal valve components, securely locking the internal components in place for normal fluid circulation. This transition can be actuated by an external function, such as a manual, pneumatic, or hydraulic actuator, which applies a force to the internal valve components, moving them and engaging the snap features to the second position.

[0021] In some examples, the valve body of the control valve has a generally cylindrical shape including a pair of opposed barbs extending radially from the valve body. The barbs are designed to facilitate a secure, leak-free connection between the valve body and a fluid hose of a closed-loop fluid system. For example, the barbs may be tapered and raised, allowing them to grip the interior of the hose when inserted.

[0022] In some examples, the valve body includes an internal cavity sized to receive an internal valve component. For example, the internal valve component may be configured to match the internal contour of the valve body and may include one or more passages that align with pass-throughs in the valve body based on the position of the internal valve component.

[0023] In some examples, the internal valve component is designed with one or more passages that, when aligned with corresponding passages in the valve body, allow fluid to flow into the system, fluid to flow out of the system, and air to flow out of the system.

[0024] For example, in the open position, which is typically the position for fluid filling, the internal components are positioned so that their passages are aligned with the passages in the valve body that enter the system. This alignment creates a fluid path that allows fluid to enter the system in a single direction, consistent with the requirements of a closed-loop fluid system during the filling process.

[0025] As fluid enters the system through the internal valve component, it passes through the aligned passages of the internal valve component and the valve body and continues through the fluid system. Once the filling process is complete, the internal valve component can be transitioned to a closed position. In this position, the passages of the internal component no longer align with the inlet passages of the valve body, effectively sealing the system and preventing fluid from entering or exiting through the fill point. However, the internal component is still designed to allow fluid to circulate within the system, ensuring the closed-loop fluid system can operate as intended.

[0026] In some instances, internal valve components may include barrier elements that obstruct certain passages in the valve body to create a path of least resistance for air to exit the system, usually through a designated vent passage, while fluid simultaneously fills the system. This prevents air from becoming trapped within the system, which could lead to inefficiencies or operational problems.

[0027] When the internal valve components transition from the first position to the second position, the barrier moves away from the obstructed passageway, allowing normal fluid circulation. In the second position, the barrier no longer obstructs the passageway, and fluid can flow freely through the valve body as part of the normal operation of the closed-loop system.

[0028] In some examples, the internal valve components of the control valve include multiple channels to facilitate various stages of system operation, including venting, filling, and draining.

[0029] The vent channel provides a dedicated path for air to exit the system when fluid is introduced. The channel is designed to allow air to rise and exit the system through the vent channel, which may be incorporated into the internal valve component.

[0030] The fill channel provides a passageway for fluid to enter the control valve and be routed through the channel to the system's internal pathways. The fill channel is sized to allow for optimal fluid flow rate, ensuring the system can be filled quickly without creating turbulence or air pockets. The fill channel design may also incorporate features for interfacing with a fill device, ensuring a secure, leak-free connection during the filling process.

[0031] The exhaust channel serves the purpose of allowing fluid to exit the closed-loop fluid system via a control valve. The exhaust channel is designed to provide a controlled and efficient means of fluid egress and may be equipped with a valve or plug that seals the system during normal operation and opens when exhaust is required.

[0032] In some examples, the position of internal valve components within the valve body determines which channels are active. For example, during the filling process, the fill channel and vent channel may simultaneously open to allow liquid inflow and air outflow, while the exhaust channel is closed. Conversely, during draining, the exhaust channel may be open, and the fill channel and vent channel may be closed to prevent air ingress and fluid leakage. In some examples, air may be forced or otherwise injected into the system, such as through the fill channel, to intentionally facilitate fluid egress.

[0033] For example, in certain instances, the valve body may be incorporated into a reservoir of a closed-loop fluid system and include a series of pass-throughs, each aligned with a specific channel in an internal valve component to facilitate the processes of venting, filling, and draining the system.

[0034] The vent pass-through corresponds to a vent channel and provides an escape route for air within the system during the filling process.

[0035] The fill pass-through aligns with the fill channel of the internal valve component and is sized to support an optimum flow rate for the fill requirements of the system.

[0036] The exhaust pass-through aligns with the exhaust channel of the internal valve component, allowing fluid to be removed from the system as needed.

[0037] In some examples, the internal valve component may include multiple O-rings that provide a seal around each pass-through in the valve body when the internal valve component is inserted into the valve body. For example, one or more O-rings may provide a seal isolating one or more of the fill channel, the exhaust channel, and the vent passage.

[0038] In some examples, the internal valve components may include a set of interface fittings that correspond to one or more of multiple channels within the valve, such as a vent channel, a fill channel, and a drain channel. The interface fittings may protrude from the valve body, thereby providing accessible connection points for external components to fill, drain, or vent the system.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a diagram 100 illustrating one embodiment of a fast fill valve, according to certain examples. As can be seen in FIG. 100, fast fill valve 102 includes a valve body 104 and an internal valve component 106, where valve body 104 has a generally cylindrical shape and is shown to hold internal valve component 106. Valve body 104 is designed to interface with a system that circulates fluid through interface barbs 108 and 110. In some examples, the interface barbs may include features such as ridges or threads that provide a mechanical grip and seal when connected to a conduit of a fluid system.

[0040] In some examples, one or more of the barbs 108 and 110 may include a coolant quick connector, a specialized fitting designed to facilitate quick and secure attachment or detachment of the valve body 104 to a fluid system conduit. These quick connectors can be easily engaged or disengaged with a push or pull action and may include a locking mechanism that allows for quick and tool-less connection changes.

[0041] Mounted within the valve body 104 is an internal valve component 106. The internal valve component 106 is shown in FIG. 100 in a fill position and is designed to allow fluid to flow in one direction through the system while preventing backflow. This is achieved by the presence of a barrier in the internal valve component 106 that impedes fluid flow in the reverse direction, thereby ensuring that fluid enters the system without risk of contamination or backflow.

[0042] An O-ring 112 rests on the internal valve component 106 and provides a seal between the internal valve component and the valve body 104 when the internal valve component 106 is pressed closed. The O-ring 112 is made from a material that is resilient and compatible with the fluid in the system, ensuring a durable and reliable seal that prevents leaks and maintains system pressure.

[0043] Additionally, FIG. 100 includes a flange interface 114 mounted on the valve body 104. This flange interface 114 is specifically designed to facilitate attachment of the rapid fill valve to a filling device or filling component that is part of a fluid system filling infrastructure. The flange interface 114 is configured to connect to a corresponding fastener on the filling device, allowing for a secure and accurate connection.

[0044] Figure 2 is a diagram 200 illustrating one embodiment of a fast fill valve, according to a particular example, similar to the fast fill valve 102 shown in Figure 1. Diagram 200 provides a depiction of the fast fill valve in different operating positions: a fill position 202 and a normal operating position 204. These positions represent two functional states of the fast fill valve within a closed-loop fluid system.

[0045] In the fill position 202, the valve is configured to facilitate the introduction of fluid into the system. A barrier 208 is engaged within the valve, obstructing a fluid path 210 that is normally used during normal system operation. This obstruction by the barrier 208 is intentional, as it redirects incoming fluid entering the system through the passage 206. The passage 206 is specifically designed to accommodate fluid flow during the fill process, ensuring that the fluid is properly directed into the system while preventing backflow or contamination.

[0046] Transitioning the fast fill valve to the normal operating position 204 involves moving internal valve components into alignment with the system's fluid path 212. In this position, O-rings 214 engage to form a tight seal. This seal allows normal circulation of fluid throughout the system, establishing the fluid path 212 through the fast fill valve.

[0047] 3 is a diagram 300 illustrating an example of a fast fill valve 302 including one or more snap features 306, according to certain examples. As can be seen in FIG. 300, the fast fill valve 302 includes an internal valve component 304 equipped with an O-ring 308 and a set of snap features 306 for engaging corresponding features on a valve body 312. FIG. 300 illustrates the fast fill valve 302 with the snap features and O-ring engaged to configure the valve for normal operation in a closed-loop fluid system.

[0048] In some examples, internal valve components 304 are designed to transition between different operating states. O-rings 308 are disposed on internal valve components 304 and create a fluid-tight seal within valve body 312. These O-rings ensure that during normal operation, fluid can flow unimpeded through fluid path 310 within the closed-loop system. O-rings 308 are made from materials selected for their durability and compatibility with the fluids within the system, providing a reliable seal that can withstand operating pressures and temperatures.

[0049] The snap feature 306 provides a secure and permanent locking of the internal valve component 304 within the valve body 312 in its operating position. When engaged, the snap feature 306 prevents unintentional movement or dislocation of the internal valve component 304, ensuring consistent and reliable operation of the fast fill valve 302.

[0050] In the engaged state, as shown in diagram 300, the fast fill valve 302 is in its normal operating mode and the fluid path 310 is fully established, allowing circulation of fluid throughout the system.

[0051] 4 is a diagram 400 illustrating an example of a fast fill valve 402 in a fill mode of operation, according to certain examples. As can be seen in diagram 400, a fill device 404 can engage a flange 406 mounted on the valve body of the fast fill valve 402.

[0052] The flange 406 serves as an interface point between the fast fill valve 402 and the fill device 404. The flange 406 is designed to provide a secure and stable connection to the fill device 404, ensuring leak-free or disconnect-free fluid transfer. The flange 406 may include features such as bolt holes or clamping surfaces to facilitate a robust mechanical attachment to the fill device 404.

[0053] Upon successful engagement with the fill device 404, fluid is directed through a fluid path 408 to the quick fill valve 402. This fluid path 408 includes a passage 412 within the quick fill valve 402, allowing fluid to enter the system when the quick fill valve 402 is in a fill mode of operation.

[0054] A barrier 410 within the fast fill valve 402 is positioned to prevent backflow of fluid into the closed loop system during the fill process. This barrier 410 ensures that fluid is directed forward into the system and that the integrity of the fluid being introduced is maintained, preventing contamination and maintaining the operating efficiency of the closed loop system.

[0055] 5 is a diagram 500 showing a cross section of an internal valve component 502 of a fast fill valve configured with one or more passages to allow fluid to rapidly fill and simultaneously vent the system, according to a particular example. This dual function is achieved by a design that incorporates multiple passages within the internal valve component 502.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 500, according to a specific example, the internal valve component 502 comprises a fill adapter that is part of the system's fill equipment. Thus, this fill adapter is designed to temporarily engage with the system during the fill process. Once connected, the internal valve component 502 seals the system channels so that fluid is forced through one opening while ensuring that all air is evacuated through another channel within the internal valve component 502. This design not only streamlines the fill process, but also reduces costs and potential reliability issues associated with permanently attached components. Once the fill operation is complete, the fill adapter is removed, leaving the system sealed and operational.

[0057] In some examples, the internal valve component 502 includes multiple interfaces (504, 506, and 508) extending from the top of the component. Each of these interfaces is designed to connect to a separate passageway within the internal valve component 502. These individual passageways are essential to the operation of the component, with each interface serving as a dedicated conduit for either the fill, drain, or vent process. This design ensures that each interface can be individually connected to the appropriate fill or vent connection within the fluid system, streamlining the maintenance process.

[0058] As can be seen in diagram 500, internal valve component 502 includes built-in O-rings 510. These O-rings are precisely positioned to establish seals around the respective passages associated with interfaces 504, 506, and 508. The seals formed by O-rings 510 prevent cross-contamination between the fill and vent paths and are essential to maintaining the pressure integrity of the system during operation.

[0059] Diagram 500 includes a depiction of passages 512 of internal valve component 502, which in some instances may include separate internal channels dedicated to either filling or draining fluid.

[0060] FIG. 6 is a diagram 600 illustrating an example of a fast fill valve, according to certain examples, in which a valve body 602 of the fast fill valve is incorporated into a fluid reservoir 604 of a closed-loop fluid system.

[0061] Diagram 600 illustrates one example of a fast fill valve system including a valve body 602 whose fill interface is integrated into a fluid reservoir 604 of a closed-loop fluid system. Thus, the internal valve component 502 may be in the form of a fill adapter as illustrated in diagram 500 and may temporarily interface with the valve body 602 during the fill process.

[0062] Fluid reservoir 604, including passageway 606, is configured to receive internal valve component 502 (i.e., fill adapter) to ensure a secure and airtight connection. When engaged, internal valve component 502 facilitates the introduction of fluid into the closed-loop system while simultaneously allowing air to be purged from the system through designated channels shown in diagram 500. This temporary engagement of the fill adapter with valve body 602 allows for a more efficient filling process and reduces complexity and potential points of failure in the system by eliminating the need for a permanently attached control valve.

[0063] The internal valve component 502 is configured to be inserted into a valve body 602 within a fluid reservoir 604. The fluid reservoir 604 is equipped with one or more passages, such as passage 606, that facilitate the flow of fluid to the closed-loop system. The passage 606 is aligned with a corresponding passage in the internal valve component 502 through the valve body 602.

[0064] Distributed along the surface of the internal valve component 502 are O-rings 608, which provide a fluid-tight seal between the internal valve component 502 and the valve body 602. These O-rings ensure that the alignment of the passages between the internal valve component 502 and the fluid reservoir 604 does not result in fluid leakage or air ingress.

[0065] Once the filling process is complete, the internal valve component 502 disengages from the valve body 602, leaving the fluid reservoir 604 and closed-loop system sealed and ready for operation.

[0066] In some examples, the fill interface is implemented at an intermediate point within the closed-loop fluid system relative to the system's coolant reservoir. By locating the fill interface in this manner, the system is designed to allow coolant to flow bidirectionally from the fill point, effectively distributing the coolant evenly throughout the system.

[0067] When fluid is introduced into the fill interface via a fill adapter (i.e., internal valve component 502) at the midpoint of the loop, it travels toward and away from the coolant reservoir, filling the system from the center outward. This method reduces the time required to purge air from the system, as symmetrical flow allows air pockets to be directed to the nearest vent points, optimally located at both ends of the loop.

[0068] The mid-fill variant design includes a specialized internal valve component 502 adapted to control bidirectional coolant flow. This component is equipped with a mechanism to open in two directions simultaneously, ensuring that coolant flows freely toward both ends of the loop. Once the filling process is complete, the mid-fill valve is designed to close securely, ensuring that the system is sealed and pressurized as required for operation.

[0069] FIG. 7 is a diagram 700 illustrating an example of a fast fill valve 702, according to a particular example, where the valve body of the fast fill valve is incorporated into a fluid reservoir of a closed-loop fluid system to facilitate drainage of fluid from within the closed-loop fluid system.

[0070] In some examples, the fast fill valve 702 can facilitate efficient draining of fluid from a closed-loop fluid system. The draining process can include forcing air into the passageway 704 of the fast fill valve 702. The introduction of air into the system displaces fluid within the closed-loop system, pushing the fluid toward and ultimately out of the passageway 706.

[0071] Air is introduced through channels 708 aligned with passages 704. Channels 708 are specifically designed to facilitate the entry of air into the closed-loop fluid system, ensuring that the air is properly directed to displace the fluid without causing turbulence or airlocks that could impede the evacuation process.

[0072] As air enters the system and begins to displace fluid, the fluid is directed toward and through channel 710. Channel 710 corresponds to passageway 706 and serves as an exit route for the fluid being expelled. The design of channel 710 ensures a smooth, continuous flow of fluid from the system, effectively expelling the fluid without leaving any residual pockets.

[0073] FIG. 8 is a diagram 800 illustrating an example of a fast fill valve 802, according to certain examples, where the valve body of the fast fill valve is incorporated into a fluid reservoir of a closed loop fluid system.

[0074] Diagram 800 provides an example of how a fast fill valve 802 may be utilized to efficiently fill a closed-loop fluid system with fluid while also allowing air to vent from the system during the filling process.

[0075] Diagram 800 shows a fast fill valve 802 having a passageway 804 that serves as the entry point for fluid into the fast fill valve 802. Passageway 804 is connected to a passageway 808 within the valve body. Passageway 808 is designed to direct the incoming fluid directly to a fluid reservoir in a closed-loop fluid system.

[0076] When fluid is introduced into the closed-loop fluid system through passageway 804 and through fast fill valve 802, any air that is displaced or trapped within the system must be vented to prevent pressure buildup and ensure a complete fill. Venting of air is accomplished through passageway 810 from the fluid reservoir to passageway 806 in fast fill valve 802. Passageway 810 is specifically designed to allow air to flow out of the fluid reservoir as it is displaced by the incoming fluid.

[0077] In some examples, fast fill valve 802 facilitates a vacuum-assisted filling process. For example, a vacuum may be generated by drawing air through passageway 806 with a vacuum source disposed in passageway 810. The vacuum source may include one or more of an electric vacuum pump, a Venturi vacuum system, a mechanical rotary vane pump, a diaphragm pump, a liquid ring pump, and a piston pump.

[0078] The process begins with fast fill valve 802 creating a vacuum in the system to expel all air. The vacuum is generated by drawing air through passageway 806 with a vacuum source located in passageway 810. This removal of air reduces the risk of air pockets and ensures that fluid fills all parts of the system.

[0079] Once sufficient vacuum is achieved, fluid is introduced into the system through passage 804. Vacuum-assisted methods allow fluid to be drawn into the system more quickly and smoothly because higher pressure gradients can be achieved without increasing the maximum fluid pressure beyond the structural limits of the system or the capabilities of the feed pump. This results in faster fill times and can significantly improve production throughput. Additionally, vacuum-assisted processes can result in more consistent and reliable fills by eliminating the variability that can occur with traditional gravity-fed or pressure-based fill methods.

[0080] Glossary

[0081] Fast Fill Valve: A device designed to speed up the process of introducing and circulating fluids within closed-loop systems, such as those used in automotive, aerospace, and HVAC applications.

[0082] Closed-Loop Fluid System: A system in which a fluid circulates in a loop, often used for thermal management and cooling purposes in various industrial and automotive applications.

[0083] Valve Body: The main structure of a fast fill valve that interfaces with the fluid hose and houses the internal valve components.

[0084] Internal Valve Component: A part within the valve body that acts as a one-way valve in one position and allows fluid to pass through in another position.

[0085] O-ring: A circular gasket fitted onto an internal valve component to provide a seal and prevent leakage.

[0086] Snap Features: Features built into the surfaces of the valve body and internal valve components that securely hold the internal valve components in various positions for filling and circulating fluid.

[0087] Actuator Mechanism: A mechanism that transitions internal valve components between positions and engages snap features to seal the valve.

[0088] Fluid Reservoir: A component of a closed-loop fluid system that stores fluid and may incorporate the valve body of a fast fill valve.

[0089] Passage: A channel within the valve body or internal valve component that allows the flow of fluid or air.

[0090] Channel: An internal passage within an internal valve component designed for a specific function such as venting, filling, or draining.

[0091] Interface Fitting: A protrusion on an internal valve component that corresponds to a channel for connecting to an external component.

[0092] Fluid Path: The route a fluid follows as it travels through a fast fill valve and closed-loop fluid system.

[0093] Vent Passage: A specific passage that allows air to escape from the system during the filling process.

[0094] Draining: The process of removing fluid from a closed-loop fluid system, often facilitated by a fast-fill valve.

[0095] Filling Device: Equipment used to introduce fluid into a closed-loop fluid system through a high-speed fill valve.

[0096] Barb: A feature on the valve body that extends radially to interface with a fluid hose and securely fasten the connection.

[0097] Sleeve and Insert Arrangement: A design in which the internal valve components slide into the valve body, similar to a sleeve and insert configuration.

Claims

1. 1. A control valve for a closed loop fluid system, comprising: a valve body that connects to a fluid hose of the closed loop fluid system; an internal valve component movable from a first position to a second position, wherein when in the first position the internal valve component functions as a one-way valve and when in the second position the internal valve component allows fluid to flow through the fluid hose into or through the valve body; one or more O-rings mounted on the internal valve component to provide a fluid seal when in one or both of the first and second positions; and A control valve comprising:

2. 10. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, further comprising a set of snap features incorporated into a surface of the valve body and the internal valve component to securely secure the internal valve component in the first position for fluid filling and in the second position for fluid circulation through the closed-loop fluid system.

3. 3. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 2, further comprising an actuator mechanism that engages the set of snap features to transition the internal valve component from the first position to the second position and permanently seal the internal valve component when in the second position.

4. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1 , wherein the control valve is positioned downstream of a fluid reservoir of the closed-loop fluid system.

5. 2. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, wherein the control valve, when in the first position, directs fluid flow unidirectionally within the fluid hose of the closed-loop fluid system.

6. 10. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, wherein the valve body has a generally cylindrical shape and includes a pair of opposed barbs extending radially from the valve body for interfacing with the fluid hose of the closed-loop fluid system.

7. 10. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, wherein the valve body and the internal valve component comprise a sleeve and insert arrangement, the internal valve component configured to slide into the valve body.

8. 2. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, wherein the internal valve component comprises one or more pass-throughs that become aligned with one or more corresponding passages in the valve body when the internal valve component is in one or more of the first position and the second position.

9. 10. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, wherein the internal valve component comprises a barrier that obstructs a passageway in the valve body when the internal valve component is in the first position.

10. 10. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, wherein the internal valve component comprises a plurality of channels including a vent channel that allows air to exit the closed-loop fluid system through the control valve, a fill channel that allows fluid to enter the closed-loop fluid system through the control valve, and an exhaust channel that allows fluid to exit the closed-loop fluid system through the control valve.

11. 11. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 10, wherein fluid flow through one or more of the plurality of channels is based on the position of the internal valve component within the valve body.

12. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 10 , wherein each channel of the plurality of channels corresponds to one or more pass-throughs of the internal valve component.

13. 11. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 10, wherein the internal valve component comprises a set of interface fittings corresponding to each channel of the plurality of channels, the set of interface fittings protruding from the valve body to enable connection.

14. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1 , wherein the valve body of the control valve is mounted within a fluid reservoir of the closed-loop fluid system.

15. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1 , wherein the closed-loop fluid system comprises a cooling system that circulates a coolant through one or more components.

16. 2. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, wherein the one or more O-rings mounted on the internal valve component include at least a first O-ring and a second O-ring positioned to create a seal around a pass-through of the internal valve component and a corresponding passage in the valve body.

17. 10. The control valve for a closed-loop fluid system of claim 1, wherein the valve body further comprises a flange that engages a fluid fill system.

18. 1. A fluid control system for a closed loop fluid system, comprising: a control valve including an internal valve component, the internal valve component having one or more operating positions including an open configuration, the open configuration aligning an obstruction element of the internal valve component with a fluid path of the closed-loop fluid system to allow fluid to flow through the control valve and into the fluid path; a vent passageway that allows fluid to exit the closed-loop fluid system when the internal valve component is in the open configuration; A fluid control system for a closed-loop fluid system, comprising:

19. 20. The fluid control system of claim 18, wherein the control valve is located downstream of the vent passage within a maximum volume, defined as the amount of fluid volume in the fluid path between the control valve and the vent passage.

20. the internal valve component further comprises a plurality of channels including a fill channel configured to allow fluid to enter the closed-loop fluid system, the vent passageway configured to allow air to exit the closed-loop fluid system, and a drain channel configured to allow fluid to exit the closed-loop fluid system; The one or more operating positions of the internal valve component are: a filling position in which the filling channel and the vent passage are open while the exhaust channel is closed; a drain position in which the drain channel is open while the fill channel and the vent passage are closed.

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