Separation valve for cryogenic fluid tank
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ENGINEERED CONTROLS INT
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-05
Smart Images
Figure 2026526068000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 605,922, filed on December 4, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 514,254, filed on July 18, 2023, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0002] The disclosure of the present invention generally relates to cryogenic fluid tanks, and more specifically to isolation valves for cryogenic fluid tanks.
Background Art
[0003] Cryogenic fluids, such as liquid hydrogen, are used as fuels for machines such as vehicles. In many cases, cryogenic fluids are first stored in storage tanks. The cryogenic fluid is then transferred from the storage tank through dedicated nozzles, receptacles, and / or hoses to another storage tank of the machine, where it is then used as fuel for the machine.
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] In some cases, the nozzle is connected to a hose that extends from a storage tank at a filling station for cryogenic fluids such as liquid hydrogen and is fluidically connected to it. The corresponding receptacle is connected to the filling tank of a vehicle that will subsequently transport the liquid hydrogen to another location. To complete the filling sequence, the operator connects the nozzle to the receptacle, allowing the liquid hydrogen to flow from the storage tank at the filling station into the filling tank of the vehicle. After the filling sequence is complete, the operator disconnects the nozzle from the receptacle. Occasionally, the operator forgets to disconnect the nozzle from the receptacle after filling the filling tank, and drives the vehicle away from the filling station with the nozzle still attached to the receptacle. In such cases, the hose may be pulled out of the storage tank as the vehicle leaves the filling station, potentially resulting in leakage of cryogenic fluid from the storage tank and / or damage to the filling station. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005] An exemplary separation valve is intended for use between a cryogenic tank and a nozzle for dispensing cryogenic fluid. The separation valve includes a first valve. The first valve includes a first valve body. The first valve body includes a first flange defining a first face surface and a through hole extending to the first face surface. The separation valve includes a second valve. The second valve includes a second valve body. The second valve body includes a second flange defining a second face surface and a counterbore having a primary hole and a main hole along the second face surface. The separation valve includes a separation assembly. The separation assembly is configured to fasten the first face surface of the first valve to the second face surface of the second valve. The separation assembly includes a bushing, which extends through the through hole, is fixedly coupled to the first flange, and is received by the main hole of the counterbore. The separation assembly includes a bushing and a pin extending through a through hole and fixedly received by a primary hole in the counterbore. The separation assembly includes one or more nuts that hold the pin in place. The pin is configured to separate the first valve and the second valve when at least a predetermined tensile force is applied that pulls the first valve away from the second valve.
[0006] An exemplary separation assembly is for a separation valve between a cryogenic tank and a nozzle for dispensing cryogenic fluid. The separation assembly includes a bushing, which extends through a through-hole of a first valve of the separation valve, is fixedly coupled to the first valve, and is configured to be received by a main hole in the counterbore of a second valve of the separation valve. The separation assembly includes a pin, which extends through the bushing and the through-hole of the first valve and is configured to be fixedly received by a primary hole in the counterbore of the second valve. The separation assembly includes one or more nuts configured to fasten the first valve to the second valve by holding the pin in place. The pin is configured to separate the first valve and the second valve when at least a predetermined tensile force is applied that pulls the first valve away from the second valve. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0007] [Figure 1] This figure shows an exemplary system for filling a filling tank with a cryogenic fluid as taught herein. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of an exemplary separation valve of the system shown in Figure 1, as taught in this specification. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the nozzle-side valve of the separation valve. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the tank-side valve of the separation valve. [Figure 5] Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the sleeve assembly of the separation valve. [Figure 6] This is a side cross-sectional view of the separation valve in Figure 2 when the nozzle-side valve in Figure 3 and the tank-side valve in Figure 4 are connected to each other. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a detailed view of a portion of the flow control components of the separation valve shown in Figure 2. [Figure 8] Figure 6 is a detailed view of a portion of the separation assembly of the separation valve shown in Figure 2. [Figure 9] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the pins in the separation assembly. [Figure 10] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the bushing of the separation assembly. [Figure 11] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the cap of the separation assembly. [Figure 12] This is a side cross-sectional view of the separation valve shown in Figure 2 after the nozzle-side valve in Figure 3 and the tank-side valve in Figure 4 have been separated from each other. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0008] The following description illustrates, illustrates, and illustrates one or more embodiments of the present invention in accordance with the principles of the invention. This description is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments described herein, but is provided to explain and teach the principles of the invention so that those skilled in the art may understand these principles, apply them, and implement not only the embodiments described herein, but also other embodiments that may be conceived in accordance with these principles. This specification is intended to be taken as a whole and to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of the invention as taught herein and understood by those skilled in the art.
[0009] The scope of the present invention is intended to encompass all such embodiments that may fall within the claims either in their wording or according to the doctrine of equivalents. This specification describes exemplary embodiments that are not intended to limit the claims or the invention of the claims. Features described herein but not enumerated in the claims are not intended to limit the claims.
[0010] It should be noted that similar or substantially similar elements may be labeled with the same reference number in this specification and in the drawings. However, these elements may potentially be labeled with different numbers, for example, if different numbering facilitates a clearer explanation. Furthermore, the drawings described herein are not necessarily drawn to exact scale, and in some cases, proportions may be exaggerated to more clearly depict certain features. Such labeling and drawing practices do not necessarily suggest the underlying essential purpose.
[0011] Some features may be described using relative terms such as top, bottom, vertical, right-facing, left-facing, etc. Such relative terms should be acknowledged as being for reference to the accompanying drawings only. These relative terms are not intended to limit the embodiments of the disclosure of the present invention.
[0012] The separation valve disclosed herein is configured to be coupled and positioned between a storage tank and a hose in a filling station for cryogenic fluids such as liquid hydrogen. The separation valve is configured to immediately seal the storage tank and the nozzle of the hose in the case, for example, if an operator forgets to detach the nozzle from the receptacle of the filling tank after a filling event, and the hose is subsequently pulled out of the storage tank by driving the vehicle with the filling tank away from the filling station with the nozzle still connected to the receptacle. The separation valve then limits the amount of cryogenic fluid released from the filling station during such a separation event and / or limits damage to the filling station.
[0013] The separation valve disclosed herein is configured to reliably control the flow of liquid hydrogen or other cryogenic fluid flowing out of a filled tank and through a hose. The separation valve includes a tank-side valve connected to the tank and a nozzle-side valve connected to the hose. The tank-side valve and the nozzle-side valve open when they are tightly coupled to each other, fluidically connecting the hose to the tank, thereby allowing cryogenic fluid to flow from the storage tank to the filled tank during a filling event. Furthermore, when the tank-side valve and the nozzle-side valve are disconnected from each other (for example, due to a separation event), the tank-side valve and the nozzle-side valve close to prevent cryogenic fluid leakage from the tank side and to controlly limit cryogenic fluid leakage from the nozzle side. To enable the hose to be disconnected from the tank in a manner that limits the amount of cryogenic fluid released, the separation valve includes one or more separation assemblies configured to separate when at least a threshold force associated with a separation event is applied.
[0014] The separation assembly disclosed in this specification includes a bushing, a pin, and one or more nuts. The bushing extends through the through-hole of the first valve (e.g., the nozzle-side valve or the tank-side valve) and is received by the main hole of the counterbore of the second valve (e.g., the other of the nozzle-side valve or the tank-side valve) of the separation valve. For example, the body of the first valve includes a flange that defines a through-hole extending to the facing surfaces. The body of the second valve includes a flange that defines a counterbore having a primary hole and a main hole positioned along the facing surfaces. The pin of the separation assembly extends through the bushing and the through-hole and is received by the primary hole of the counterbore. The one or more nuts are configured to hold the pin and the bushing in place and to fasten the facing surface of the first valve to the facing surface of the second valve. The pin is configured to separate to disconnect the first valve from the second valve when at least a predetermined tensile force that pulls the first valve away from the second valve is applied.
[0015] In an embodiment, the bushing does not contact the pin so as to be isolated from the rotational force applied by the pin to at least one of the first valve or the second valve. On the other hand, the pin is configured not to disassemble when a rotational force is applied and to separate only when a tensile force is applied in order to prevent the operator from accidentally rotating the first valve and the second valve away from each other.
[0016] In an embodiment, the bushing is threadably coupled to the flange of the first valve to further hold the bushing in place.
[0017] In an embodiment, the bushing includes a flange positioned to engage the facing surface of the flange of the first valve to further hold the bushing in place.
[0018] In an embodiment, the pin includes a first end and a second end. The first end can be receivably engaged with a primary hole of a counterbore of the second valve in a screwing manner. One or more nuts can be threadably coupled to the second end of the pin.
[0019] In an embodiment, the separation valve includes a plurality of separation assemblies. The separation assemblies can be spaced equidistantly from each other along the circumferences of the first valve and the second valve.
[0020] In an embodiment, the threshold force at which the first and second valves of the separation valve separate is based on the composition, positioning, quantity, size, and / or shape of the pins. For example, each pin can have an hourglass shape and a notch at a central point along the length of the pin. The hourglass shape and the notch at least partially define a predetermined tensile force at which the pin separates.
[0021] In an embodiment, one or more nuts include a preload nut and a locking nut. The preload nut is configured to engage with the bushing and fix the pin at a predetermined position relative to the bushing so as to couple the first and second valves to each other. The locking nut is configured to engage with the preload nut to lock it in a predetermined position.
[0022] In an embodiment, the separation assembly further includes a cap and a gasket. The cap is configured to form a sealed connection with the flange of the first valve through the gasket and surround the pin within the through hole of the first valve and within the counterbore of the second valve to fluidically isolate it.
[0023] Other embodiments of the separation assembly include combinations of the above-described features. For example, the separation assemblies disclosed herein include combinations of pins, bushings, preload nuts, locking nuts, caps, and / or other components.
[0024] Moving to the figures, Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary system 10 for transporting liquid hydrogen and / or other cryogenic fluids as taught herein. System 10 includes a filling station 20 and a vehicle 30 for transporting the cryogenic fluid. The filling station 20 in the illustrated example includes a storage tank 22 (also referred to as the “cryogenic tank” and “liquid hydrogen tank”), a jacketed hose 24 extending from the storage tank 22, and a nozzle 26 at the distal end of the jacketed hose 24 for dispensing the cryogenic fluid. The vehicle 30 includes a filling tank 32, a hose 34 connected to and extending from it, and a receptacle 36. In other examples, the receptacle 36 is mounted directly to the filling tank 32 without the use of an external intermediate hose.
[0025] The storage tank 22 of the filling station 20 is configured to store cryogenic fluid, and the filling tank 32 of the vehicle 30 is configured to receive the cryogenic fluid from the storage tank 22 through a jacketed hose 24, a hose 34, a nozzle 26, and a receptacle 36. To transfer the cryogenic fluid from the storage tank 22 to the filling tank 32, the operator 40 will connect the nozzle 26 to the receptacle 36 to fluidically connect the filling tank 32 to the storage tank 22. With the nozzle 26 rigidly connected to the receptacle 36, the operator 40 will start transferring the cryogenic fluid. For example, the operator 40 can start transferring the fluid from a distance by pressing a button on the filling station 20, which will later initiate the filling sequence.
[0026] In the illustrated example, the filling station 20 further includes a separation valve 100 coupled to another jacketed hose 23. The jacketed hose 23 extends between the separation valve 100 and the storage tank 22 and is coupled to them. The separation valve 100 is configured to immediately seal the ends of the jacketed hoses 23 and 24 if the nozzle 26 is pulled away from the storage tank 22, for example, due to the operator 40 (i) forgetting to detach the nozzle 26 from the receptacle 36 after completing a filling event, and (ii) subsequently driving the vehicle 30 away from the filling station 20 with the nozzle 26 still connected to the receptacle 36. The separation valve 100 is then configured to limit the amount of cryogenic fluid that may otherwise be released from the filling station 20 during such a separation event and / or to limit damage to the filling station 20.
[0027] As will be disclosed in more detail below, the illustrated example separation valve 100 includes a nozzle-side valve 200 and a tank-side valve 300. When installed in the system 10 of Figure 1, the separation valve 100 is coupled between a jacketed hose 24 and a storage tank 22 and is fluidically connected to them. The nozzle-side valve 200 is connected to the jacketed hose 24, and the tank-side valve 300 is connected to the storage tank 22. In addition, the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled to each other and are fluidically connected. When the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled to each other between the jacketed hose 24 and the storage tank 22, both the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are in their respective open configurations, allowing a cryogenic fluid such as liquid hydrogen to flow from the storage tank 22 to the jacketed hose 24 during the filling sequence. The nozzle-side valve 200 remains connected to the jacketed hose 24 and is configured to disconnect from the tank-side valve 300 when the vehicle 30 leaves the filling station 20 during the filling sequence, while the tank-side valve 300 remains connected to the storage tank 22. When disconnected from each other, both the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are configured to transition to their respective closed configurations to (1) prevent cryogenic fluid from leaking out of the jacketed hose 24 and (2) limit the amount of cryogenic fluid that leaks out of the storage tank 22 as a result of the vehicle 30 leaving the filling station 20 during the filling sequence, as a controlled release.
[0028] Figures 2 to 12 illustrate an exemplary separation valve 100 as taught herein. The separation valve 100 is configured for use between a storage tank 22 and a nozzle 26 for dispensing cryogenic fluid during a filling event. As shown in Figure 2, the separation valve 100 includes a nozzle-side valve 200 and a tank-side valve 300 coupled together. The nozzle-side valve 200 includes an outer jacket 290, and the tank-side valve 300 includes an outer jacket 390. The separation valve 100 further includes a sleeve assembly 400 configured to engage with the outer jackets 290 and 390 to form a seal between them.
[0029] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle-side valve 200 in a closed configuration. The nozzle-side valve 200 includes a valve body 210 (also called the "nozzle-side body") that defines a chamber 220. The chamber 220 (also called the "nozzle-side chamber" and the "fluid chamber") extends between the inlet 222 (also called the "nozzle-side inlet") and outlet 224 (also called the "nozzle-side outlet") of the nozzle-side valve 200 and fluidly connects them. The valve body 210 includes a flange 212 (also called the "nozzle-side flange") positioned adjacent to the inlet 222.
[0030] The flange 212 extends radially outward from the valve body 210. The flange 212 of the valve body 210 defines the opposing surface 214 (also called the "nozzle-side opposing surface"). The opposing surface 214 can extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the chamber 220. As disclosed in more detail below with respect to Figure 6, the opposing surface 214 of the nozzle-side valve 200 is configured to engage with the opposing surface 314 (Figure 4) of the tank-side valve 300 when the separation valves 100 are assembled together.
[0031] The flange 212 of the valve body 210 defines one or more through holes 216 extending to the opposite surface 214, through which one or more separation assemblies 500 of the separation valve 100 extend. In the illustrated example, the flange 212 defines a number of through holes 216 that are equidistant from each other in the circumferential direction. For example, the flange 212 defines three through holes 216 that are equidistant from each other by approximately 120 degrees in the circumferential direction. In other examples, the flange 212 defines more or fewer through holes 216. In addition, the separation valve 100 in the illustrated example includes a separation assembly 500 for each through hole 216 of the nozzle-side valve 200. That is, the separation valve 100 includes a separation assembly 500 for each through hole 216, and each separation assembly 500 extends through its respective through hole 216. Accordingly, the separation assemblies 500 are spaced equidistant from each other in the circumferential direction along the flange 212. For example, the separation valve 100 in Figure 3 includes three separation assemblies 500 that are spaced equidistant from each other by approximately 120 degrees in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, as will be disclosed in more detail below with respect to Figure 8, each through-hole 216 in the illustrated example includes a female thread configured to receive the bushing 520 of the respective separation assembly.
[0032] The nozzle-side valve 200 also includes a flow control assembly 225 (also referred to as the “nozzle-side flow control assembly”) that is at least partially housed in the chamber 220. In the example shown in Figure 3, the flow control assembly 225 includes a poppet 230 and a shaft 240. The poppet 230 and the shaft 240 are coupled to each other and configured to extend slidably along the longitudinal axis of the chamber 220. For example, the shaft 240 is screw-connected to the poppet body 231 of the poppet 230. The poppet 230 is positioned toward the inlet 222 of the chamber 220, and the shaft 240 is positioned toward the outlet 224 of the chamber 220.
[0033] The poppet 230 is configured to engage tightly with the valve base 218, as shown in Figure 3, to prevent cryogenic fluids such as liquid hydrogen from flowing through the chamber 220 of the nozzle-side valve 200 when the nozzle-side valve 200 is in a closed configuration. As disclosed in more detail below with respect to Figure 6, the poppet 230 is configured to disengage from the valve base 218 to allow cryogenic fluids to flow through the chamber 220 of the nozzle-side valve 200 when the nozzle-side valve 200 is in an open configuration.
[0034] In the illustrated example, the poppet 230 includes a poppet body 231 and a poppet disc 232. The poppet disc 232 is fixed in a predetermined position between the shaft 240 and the poppet body 231 when the poppet 230 is coupled to the shaft 240. The poppet disc 232 is configured to engage tightly with the valve base 218. In the illustrated example, the valve base 218 is predetermined by the valve body 210. The poppet disc 232 is made of polychlorotrifluoroethylene and / or any other material configured to form a tight seal with the valve base 218 at the extremely cold temperatures of cryogenic fluids.
[0035] The poppet 230 also includes a stem 234 configured to engage with the stem 334 of the tank-side valve 300 (Figure 4) when the separation valves 100 are assembled together. In the illustrated example, the stem 234 includes a projection 236 extending from its distal end. The distal end of the stem 234 may extend outside the chamber 220 when the nozzle-side valve 200 is in a closed configuration. As disclosed in more detail below with respect to Figure 6, the projection 236 facilitates the alignment between the stem 234 of the nozzle-side valve 200 and the stem 334 of the tank-side valve 300 for assembling the separation valves 100 together.
[0036] As shown in Figure 3, the flow control assembly 225 includes a poppet support 250 and a spring 260. The poppet support 250 defines a hole 252 through which the shaft 240 slides when the flow control assembly 225 transitions between a closed configuration and an open configuration. The poppet support 250 is secured to the valve body 210 by one or more fasteners 254 (e.g., threaded fasteners) adjacent to the outlet 224 of the nozzle-side valve 200. The spring 260 extends between the poppet support 250 and the shaft 240 and engages with them, biasing the poppet 230 toward the valve base 218 in the closed configuration.
[0037] The illustrated flow control assembly 225 also includes a pressure safety valve 270. The pressure safety valve 270 is configured to release from the cryogenic fluid any pressure buildup that might be trapped in the jacketed hose 24 between uses, thereby preventing the jacketed hose 24 from being damaged by the increased pressure level.
[0038] In the illustrated example, the poppet 230 and shaft 240 define a conduit 280 (also called a “pressure-safe conduit”). The shaft 240 defines the inlet 281 of the conduit 280, and the poppet 230 defines the outlet 282 of the conduit 280. The poppet 230 and shaft 240 also define an internal chamber 285 located along the conduit 280 between the inlet 281 and the outlet 282.
[0039] The pressure safety valve 270 is housed in an internal chamber 285. In the illustrated example, the pressure safety valve 270 includes a plug 271 (also called the “pressure safety plug”), a base 272 (also called the “pressure safety base”), and a spring 273 (also called the “pressure safety spring”). The base 272 is predetermined by the shaft 240. The plug 271 includes a plug body 274, a plug disc 275, and a retainer 276. The plug disc 275 is made of polychlorotrifluoroethylene and / or any other material configured to form a tight seal with the base 272 at the extremely cold temperatures of cryogenic fluids. The plug disc 275 is tightly coupled to the plug body 274 through the retainer 276. The spring 273 extends between and engages with the poppet body 231 of the poppet 230 and the plug body 274 of the plug 271. The spring 273 is configured to apply a biasing force to the plug 271 in order to bias the plug 271 toward the base 272.
[0040] When the pressure of the cryogenic fluid in the jacketed hose 24 is weaker than the biasing force, the spring 273 pushes the plug 271, causing the plug disc 275 to engage tightly with the base 272, thereby preventing the fluid from being released from the jacketed hose 24 through the conduit 280. When the pressure of the cryogenic fluid in the jacketed hose 24 is stronger than the biasing force, this pressure pushes the plug 271, causing the plug disc 275 to be released from the base 272, thereby opening the pressure safety valve 270, allowing the fluid trapped in the jacketed hose 24 to be safely released through the conduit 280.
[0041] As shown in Figure 3, the illustrated example nozzle-side valve 200 also includes an outer jacket 290 enclosing an insulating layer 292 that circumferentially surrounds at least a portion of the valve body 210. In the illustrated example, the insulating layer 292 is a vacuum insulating layer extending over the nozzle-side valve 200 and at least a portion of the jacketed hose 24. The insulating layer 292 (also referred to as the “jacket insulating layer,” “sealed insulating layer,” “vacuum insulating layer,” “sealed vacuum insulating layer,” and “vacuum insulating molten layer”) provides an insulating layer around the jacketed hose 24 and the valve body 210 of the nozzle-side valve 200, for example, facilitating the operator 40 to securely grip the jacketed hose 24 and / or the nozzle-side valve 200. The vacuum in the insulating layer 292 can be formed by a vacuum valve or discharge port positioned along the outer jacket 290 and / or the jacketed hose 24. The insulating layer 292 is formed by the valve body 210, the outer jacket 290, the vacuum seal 294, and / or the jacketed hose 24.
[0042] The nozzle-side valve 200 includes a vacuum seal 294 (also called a "bellows seal") and one or more jacket standoffs 296. Each vacuum seal 294 and jacket standoff 296 extends radially between the valve body 210 and the outer jacket 290 and engages with them. The vacuum seal 294 and jacket standoff 296 are securely bonded to the valve body 210 and the outer jacket 290 by welding in a manner that maintains the vacuum in the insulating layer 292 after the nozzle-side valve 200 is separated from the tank-side valve 300 due to a separation event.
[0043] In the illustrated example, the vacuum seal 294 is configured to reduce heat transfer with the insulation layer 292. In the illustrated example, the vacuum seal 294 includes a bellows formed from a relatively thin sheet of material (e.g., stainless steel about 0.2 mm thick). The vacuum seal 294 may also include one or more bellows supports that provide structural support to the bellows. For example, the bellows supports may be formed from a plastic material such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and include teeth that are inserted between the bellows and engage with them to provide structural support to the bellows. In other examples, the vacuum seal 294 may include a thicker sheet of material (e.g., stainless steel about 1.5 mm thick) molded to form circumferential grooves.
[0044] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the tank-side valve 300 in a closed configuration. The tank-side valve 300 includes a valve body 310 (also called the "tank-side body") that defines a chamber 320. The chamber 320 (also called the "tank-side chamber" and the "fluid chamber") extends between the inlet 322 (also called the "tank-side inlet") and outlet 324 (also called the "tank-side outlet") of the tank-side valve 300, fluidly connecting them. The valve body 310 includes a flange 312 (also called the "tank-side flange") positioned adjacent to the outlet 324.
[0045] The flange 312 extends radially outward from the valve body 310. The flange 312 of the valve body 310 defines the opposing surface 314 (also called the "tank-side opposing surface"). The opposing surface 314 can extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the chamber 320. As will be disclosed in more detail below with reference to Figure 6, the opposing surface 314 of the tank-side valve 300 is configured to engage with the opposing surface 214 (Figure 3) of the nozzle-side valve 200 when the separation valves 100 are assembled together.
[0046] The flange 312 of the valve body 310 defines one or more counterbores 315 configured to receive one or more separate assemblies 500. Each counterbore 315 includes a primary hole 316 and a main hole 317 along the facing surface 314. As disclosed below in more detail with respect to Figure 8, the primary hole 316 is configured to receive the pin 510 of each separate assembly 500, and the main hole 317 is configured to receive the bushing 520 of each separate assembly 500.
[0047] In the illustrated example, the flange 312 defines a number of counterbores 315 that are equidistant from each other in the circumferential direction along it. For example, the flange 312 defines three counterbores 315 that are equidistant from each other by approximately 120 degrees in the circumferential direction. In other examples, the flange 312 defines more or fewer counterbores 315. The isolation valve 100 includes a separation assembly 500 for each counterbore 315 of the tank-side valve 300. That is, the isolation valve 100 includes a separation assembly 500 for each counterbore 315, and each separation assembly 500 extends into and is received by each counterbore 315.
[0048] As shown in Figure 3, the tank-side valve 300 also includes an opposing seal 370 and a spring-loaded seal 375. The opposing seal 370 is positioned along the flange 312 adjacent to the counterbore 315 and is configured to form a sealed connection between the flange 212 of the valve body 210 and the flange 312 of the valve body 310 when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled to each other. The spring-loaded seal 375 is positioned along the valve body 310 adjacent to the outlet 324 and is configured to form a sealed connection between the valve body 210 and the valve body 310 when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled to each other. The spring-loaded seal 375 is configured to facilitate the formation of a sealed connection between the valve body 210 and the valve body 310.
[0049] The tank-side valve 300 further includes a flow control assembly 325 (also referred to as the “tank-side flow control assembly”) that is at least partially housed in the chamber 320. In the example shown in Figure 4, the flow control assembly 325 includes a poppet 330 and a shaft 340. The poppet 330 is positioned toward the outlet 324 of the chamber 320, and the shaft 340 is positioned toward the inlet 322 of the chamber 320. The poppet 330 and the shaft 340 are coupled to each other and are configured to extend slidably along the longitudinal axis of the chamber 320. For example, the shaft 340 is screwably coupled to the poppet body 331 of the poppet 330. In the illustrated example, the shaft 340 defines a cavity 380 (also referred to as the “shaft cavity”) and a conduit 382 (also referred to as the “shaft conduit”). The cavity 380 is configured to receive the poppet body 331 and to couple the shaft 340 and the poppet 330 together. The conduit 382 prevents pressure from forming within the cavity 380 that would otherwise hinder the rigid acceptance of the poppet body 331 by the cavity 380.
[0050] The poppet 330 is configured to engage tightly with the valve base 318, as shown in Figure 4, to prevent cryogenic fluids such as liquid hydrogen from flowing through the chamber 320 of the tank-side valve 300 when the tank-side valve 300 is in a closed configuration. As disclosed in more detail below with respect to Figure 6, the poppet 330 is configured to disengage from the valve base 318 to allow cryogenic fluids to flow through the chamber 320 of the tank-side valve 300 when the tank-side valve 300 is in an open configuration.
[0051] In the illustrated example, the poppet 330 includes a poppet body 331 and a poppet disc 332. The poppet disc 332 is fixed in a predetermined position between the shaft 340 and the poppet body 331 when the poppet 330 is coupled to the shaft 340. The poppet disc 332 is configured to engage tightly with the valve base 318. In the illustrated example, the valve base 318 is predetermined by the valve body 310. The poppet disc 332 is made of polychlorotrifluoroethylene and / or any other material configured to form a tight seal with the valve base 318 at the extremely cold temperatures of cryogenic fluids.
[0052] The poppet 330 also includes a stem 334 configured to engage with the stem 234 of the nozzle-side valve 200 (Figure 3) when the separation valves 100 are assembled together. In the illustrated example, the distal end of the stem 334 defines a cavity 336 (also referred to as the “stem cavity”). Furthermore, the stem 334 defines a conduit 338 (also referred to as the “stem conduit”) extending between the cavity 336 and the outer surface of the stem 334. As will be disclosed in more detail below with respect to Figure 6, the cavity 336 of the stem 334 is configured to align with and receive a projection 236 of the stem 234 in order to facilitate alignment between the stem 234 of the nozzle-side valve 200 and the stem 334 of the tank-side valve 300 when the separation valves 100 are assembled together. In addition to or instead of the above, the cavity 336 is configured to receive the projection 236 and stabilize the poppets 230 and 330 as the cryogenic fluid flows through the tank-side valve 300 and the nozzle-side valve 200 in a turbulent state. Furthermore, the conduit 338 prevents pressure from forming within the cavity 336 that would be considered to hinder the cavity 336 from firmly receiving the projection 236 of the stem 234.
[0053] As shown in Figure 4, the flow control assembly 325 further includes a poppet support 350 and a spring 360. The poppet support 350 defines a hole 352 through which the shaft 340 slides when the flow control assembly 325 transitions between a closed configuration and an open configuration. The poppet support 350 is secured to the valve body 310 by one or more fasteners 354 (e.g., threaded fasteners) adjacent to the inlet 322 of the tank-side valve 300. The spring 360 extends between the poppet support 350 and the shaft 340 and engages with them, biasing the poppet 330 toward the valve base 318 in the closed configuration.
[0054] As shown in Figure 4, the illustrated example of the tank-side valve 300 also includes an outer jacket 390 that encloses an insulating layer 392 that circumferentially surrounds at least a portion of the valve body 310. In the illustrated example, the insulating layer 392 is a vacuum insulating layer extending over the tank-side valve 300 and at least a portion of the jacketed hose 23. The insulating layer 392 (also referred to as the “jacket insulating layer,” “sealed insulating layer,” “vacuum insulating layer,” “sealed vacuum insulating layer,” and “vacuum insulating molten layer”) provides an insulating layer around the jacketed hose 23 and the valve body 310 of the tank-side valve 300, for example, facilitating the operator 40 to securely grip the jacketed hose 23 and / or the tank-side valve 300. The vacuum in the insulating layer 392 can be formed by a vacuum valve or discharge port positioned along the outer jacket 390 and / or the jacketed hose 23. The insulating layer 392 is formed by the valve body 310, the outer jacket 390, the vacuum seal 394, and / or the jacketed hose 23.
[0055] The tank-side valve 300 includes a vacuum seal 394 (also called a "bellows seal") and one or more jacket standoffs 396. Each vacuum seal 394 and jacket standoff 396 extends radially between the valve body 310 and the outer jacket 390 and engages with them. The vacuum seal 394 and jacket standoff 396 are securely bonded to the valve body 310 and the outer jacket 390 by welding in a manner that maintains the vacuum in the insulating layer 392 after the tank-side valve 300 is separated from the nozzle-side valve 200 due to a separation event.
[0056] In the illustrated example, the vacuum seal 394 is configured to reduce heat transfer with the insulation layer 392. In the illustrated example, the vacuum seal 394 includes a bellows formed from a relatively thin sheet of material (e.g., stainless steel about 0.2 mm thick). The vacuum seal 394 may further include one or more bellows supports that provide structural support to the bellows. For example, the bellows supports may be formed from a plastic material such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and include teeth that are inserted between the bellows and engage with them to provide structural support to the bellows. In other examples, the vacuum seal 394 may include a thicker sheet of material (e.g., stainless steel about 1.5 mm thick) molded to form circumferential grooves.
[0057] In the illustrated example, the nozzle-side valve 200 in Figure 3 is a first valve comprising a valve body 210 having a flange 212 defining a through-hole 216 for the separation assembly 500, and the tank-side valve 300 in Figure 4 is a second valve comprising a valve body 310 having a flange 312 defining a counterbore 315 for the separation assembly 500. In other examples, the tank-side valve 300 is a first valve comprising a valve body 310 having a flange 312 defining a through-hole for the separation assembly 500, and the nozzle-side valve 200 is a second valve comprising a valve body 210 having a flange 212 defining a counterbore for the separation assembly 500.
[0058] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the sleeve assembly 400. In the illustrated example, the sleeve assembly 400 includes a sleeve 410 having a hollow cylindrical shape and configured to extend circumferentially around portions of the outer jackets 290 and 390. The sleeve 410 is configured to engage with both the outer surface of the outer jacket 290 and the outer surface of the outer jacket 390 when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled to each other. In some examples, the sleeve 410 is configured to slide in place. Furthermore, in some examples, the sleeve 410 is made of a plastic material to facilitate a sealed engagement with the outer jackets 290 and 390, which may be made of a metal material, for example.
[0059] The sleeve assembly 400 also includes seals 420, 425 positioned along the inner surface of the sleeve 410. Seal 420 (e.g., an O-ring) is positioned adjacent to a first end of the sleeve 410 and configured to seal-engage with the outer jacket 290. Seal 425 (e.g., an O-ring) is positioned adjacent to a second, opposing end of the sleeve 410 and configured to seal-engage with the outer jacket 390. As shown in Figure 6, seal 420 is configured to form a seal-engagement portion between the sleeve 410 and the outer jacket 290 to maintain a vacuum within the insulation layer 292, and seal 425 is configured to form a seal-engagement portion between the sleeve 410 and the outer jacket 390 to maintain a vacuum within the insulation layer 392. In the illustrated example, the sleeve assembly 400 includes two seals 420, 425. In other examples, the sleeve assembly 400 may include more, fewer, and / or different types of seals.
[0060] Returning to Figure 5, the sleeve assembly 400 also includes a valve housing 430, a discharge valve 450, and a safety valve 460. The valve housing 430 is securely bonded to the sleeve 410, for example, by welding. The valve housing 430 defines a chamber 440 (also referred to as the “valve chamber”). The valve housing 430 and the sleeve 410 further define a conduit 445 (also referred to as the “valve conduit”). As shown in Figures 6 and 8, the conduit 445 can be fluidly connected to an air pocket 575 of the separation assembly 500 through the interior of the sleeve 410. The sealed (e.g., welded) connection of the vacuum seal 294 isolates the insulating layer 292 from the conduit 445, and the sealed (e.g., welded) connection of the vacuum seal 394 isolates the insulating layer 392 from the conduit 445.
[0061] The safety valve 460 (also called the “pressure safety valve”) is configured to evacuate liquid hydrogen from the insulating layers 292 and / or 392 in order to maintain the vacuum within the insulating layers 292 and 392, respectively. For example, the evacuated liquid hydrogen may flow from chamber 440 into insulating layer 292 through an air pocket 575 (Figure 8) located between chambers 220, 320 and insulating layers 292, 392. The safety valve 460 is set to a low-pressure environment (e.g., 1.5 pounds per square inch absolute pressure (PSIA)) to maintain the vacuum within insulating layers 292 and 392. That is, if the pressure in chamber 440 and / or the air pocket 575, which can be fluidly connected to it, exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 1.6 PSIA), the safety valve 460 opens to reduce the pressure in chamber 440 and / or the air pocket 575.
[0062] The discharge valve 450 is configured to prevent the gas from liquefying and / or to minimize pressure changes. The liquid hydrogen flowing through chambers 220, 320 may be very cold, and therefore, without the hydrogen discharge valve 450, ice may form and / or the surrounding nitrogen and / or oxygen may liquefy. Such liquefaction of the gas may result in air flowing into the air pocket 575, resulting in a change in pressure and, consequently, a change in the force holding the separation valve 500. The discharge valve 450 prevents the gas from liquefying and minimizes pressure changes by creating a vacuum in the air pocket 575 and / or clearing helium from the air pocket 575.
[0063] Figures 6 to 8 show the separation valve 100 when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled to each other and in their respective open configurations, allowing a cryogenic fluid such as liquid hydrogen to flow from the storage tank 22 to the nozzle 26 during a filling event. For example, when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled to each other and in their respective open configurations, the cryogenic fluid flows out of the storage tank 22, through the jacketed hose 23 (Figure 1), through the inlet 322 into the chamber 320 of the tank-side valve 300, through the chamber 320 of the tank-side valve 300 and the chamber 220 of the nozzle-side valve 200 (Figure 6), out of the chamber 220 through the outlet 224 (Figure 6), through the jacketed hose 24 to reach the nozzle 26 (Figure 1).
[0064] As shown in Figure 6, when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled together, the flange 212 of the nozzle-side valve 200 engages with the flange 312 of the tank-side valve 300. In particular, the opposing surface 214 of the flange 212 engages with the opposing surface 314 of the flange 312. In addition, the spring-loaded seal 375 is configured to form a sealed connection between the flanges 212 and 312 when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled together.
[0065] Moving to Figure 7, the stem 234 of the poppet 230 of the nozzle-side valve 200 is configured to engage with the stem 334 of the poppet 330 of the tank-side valve 300. For example, the cavity 336 of the stem 334 is configured to firmly receive the projection 236 of the stem 234 when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled together. When the stems 234 and 334 are firmly engaged with each other, the poppet 230 of the nozzle-side valve 200 is pushed by applying a force to the poppet 330 that overcomes the biasing force of the spring 360, and as a result, the shaft 340 slides through the hole 352 of the poppet support 350. The poppet disc 332 is then released from the valve base 318, thereby allowing the outlet 324 to fluidly connect to the inlet 322 and enabling the cryogenic fluid to flow through the chamber 320 of the tank-side valve 300. Similarly, when stems 234 and 334 are firmly engaged with each other, the poppet 330 of the tank-side valve 300 is pushed by applying a force to the poppet 230 that overcomes the biasing force of the spring 260, causing the shaft 240 to slide through the hole 252 of the poppet support 250. The poppet disc 232 is then released from the valve base 218, thereby fluidly connecting the outlet 224 to the inlet 222 and allowing the cryogenic fluid to flow through the chamber 220 of the nozzle-side valve 200.
[0066] Returning to Figure 6, the through-holes 216 of the valve body 210 align with the counterbore 315 of the valve body 210 when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled together. For example, each through-hole 216 is configured to align with its respective counterbore 315. In the illustrated example, the nozzle-side valve 200 and / or the tank-side valve 300 include features, such as keyed features, to facilitate the alignment between the through-holes 216 and the counterbore 315 when the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are coupled together. For example, a projection 236 on the stem 234 and a cavity 336 on the stem 234 are keyed together to align the through-holes 216 and the counterbore 315.
[0067] The through-holes 216 and counterbores 315 are aligned to receive the separation assemblies 500. For example, each separation assembly 500 is configured to extend through its respective through-hole 216 and counterbore 315 and be received by them. Each separation assembly 500 is positioned radially between the face seal 370 and the vacuum seals 294, 394. The vacuum seals 294, 394 are positioned to fluidly isolate the separation assemblies 500 from the insulation layers 292, 392. The face seal 370 is positioned radially between the separation assemblies 500 and the chambers 220, 320, and fluidly isolates the separation assemblies 500 and the air pockets 575 in which they are placed from the chambers 220, 320. In some examples, the face seal 370 is made of a low hydrogen permeability material to extend the vacuum in a functional state, for example. In other examples, the face seal 370 is made of a metal such as indium to form an airtight seal by cold welding.
[0068] The separation assembly 500 is configured to remain in place relative to each other when only a force less than a predetermined tensile force is applied, maintaining a secure connection between the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300. The predetermined tensile force corresponds to a separation event. The separation assembly 500 is configured to separate, for example, when the nozzle-side valve 200 is pulled away from the tank-side valve 300 by at least a predetermined tensile force resulting from a separation event. As shown in Figure 8, each separation assembly 500 includes a pin 510 (also called a "separation pin"), a bushing 520, and one or more nuts 530, 540.
[0069] As shown in Figure 9, the pin 510 includes a first end 511 and a second end 513 that are opposite to each other. The first end 511 includes a male thread 512 (also called the “first male thread”). The second end 513 includes a male thread 514 (also called the “second male thread”). The pin 510 also includes an intermediate portion 515 that extends between the first end 511 and the second end 513 and is integrally formed with them. In the illustrated example, the pin 510 has an hourglass shape in which the intermediate portion 515 has a smaller diameter than that of the first end 511 and the second end 513. In addition to or instead of this, the intermediate portion 515 defines a notch 516 located at the center along the length of the pin 510. The notch 516 extends circumferentially around the intermediate portion 515 of the pin 510. In the illustrated example, the notch 516 is V-shaped with an angle of about 60 degrees.
[0070] The pin 510 is configured to remain intact when only a force less than a predetermined tensile force is applied, and to separate when at least the predetermined tensile force is applied. The predetermined tensile force is based on the composition, number, arrangement, shape, size, and / or form of the pin 510. For example, the notch 516 and / or hourglass shape predetermine, at least partially, the predetermined tensile force at which the pin 510 is configured to separate. The pin 510 may include plastic, ceramic, metal, and / or any other material that allows the pin 510 to consistently separate when a desired tensile force is applied.
[0071] As shown in Figure 10, the bushing 520 includes a first end 521 and a second end 522. The first end 521 faces the second end 522. The bushing 520 defines a hole 523 that extends between the first end 521 and the second end 522 along its longitudinal axis. The bushing 520 includes a flange 524 (also called the "bushing flange") that extends radially outward at the first end 521. The flange 524 includes an inner surface 525 that extends radially outward and faces the second end 522. In addition, the second end 522 is threaded with a male screw 526. In the illustrated example, the male screw 526 extends from the second end 522 toward the flange 524.
[0072] Returning to Figure 8, the bushing 520 is configured to extend through the through hole 216 and be securely coupled to the flange 212. For example, the bushing 520 is fixedly coupled to the flange 212 when positioned to extend through the through hole 216 to hold itself in place. In the illustrated example, the inner portion of the male thread 526 is screw-received by the female thread of the through hole 216. In other examples, the bushing 520 is fixed in place by press-fitting and / or other fastening means through the through hole 216. In addition, the bushing 520 is received within the main hole 317 of the counterbore 315. In particular, the flange 524 of the bushing 520 is received within the main hole 317 of the counterbore 315 such that its inner surface 525 is flush with the opposing surface 314 of the flange 312 of the tank-side valve 300. The opposing surface 214 of the flange 212 is configured to engage with the inner surface 525 of the flange 524 of the bushing 520, thereby further holding the bushing 520 in a predetermined position between the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300.
[0073] When the separation assembly 500 is fully assembled with the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300, the pin 510 extends through the through-hole 523 of the bushing 520, which extends through the through-hole 216. In addition, the pin 510 is fixedly received in the primary hole 316 of the counterbore 315. For example, the first end 511 of the pin 510 extends beyond the first end 521 of the bushing 520 and is screw-received by the primary hole 316 of the counterbore 315. The second end 513 of the pin 510 extends beyond the second end 522 of the bushing 520 so that the male thread 514 extends beyond the bushing 520.
[0074] One or more of the nuts 530, 540 are configured to hold the pin 510 in place. The separation assembly 500 then fastens the facing surface 214 of the nozzle-side valve 200 to the facing surface 314 of the tank-side valve 300 when the pin 510 and bushing 520 are secured in place. In the illustrated example, nut 530 is a preloaded nut and nut 540 is a locking nut. The nuts 530, 540 are configured to be screw-connected to the second end 513 of the pin by a male thread 514. For example, nut 530 is screwed onto the first intermediate portion of the male thread 514 and engages with the second end 522 of the bushing 520 to secure the pin 510 in place relative to the bushing 520, and is then configured to securely connect the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 to each other. Furthermore, the opposing seal 370, positioned radially adjacent to the separation assembly 500, is activated by tightening the nut 530. The nut 540 is screwed onto the second intermediate portion of the male thread 514 and engages with the nut 530, which is engaged with the bushing 520, to lock the nut 530 in place and further secure the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 to each other. Next, the nuts 530 and 540 are configured to fasten the opposing surface 214 of the nozzle-side valve 200 to the opposing surface 314 of the tank-side valve 300.
[0075] As shown in Figure 8, the bushing 520 does not contact the pin 510. For example, the pin 510 has an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the hole 523 in the bushing 520 so that it does not contact the bushing 520 when extended through the through hole 523 in the bushing 520. The bushing 520 and the pin 510 are then positioned relative to the flange 212 of the nozzle-side valve 200 and the flange 312 of the tank-side valve 300 so that the pin 510 is isolated from rotational forces applied to at least one of the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300. That is, the bushing 520 is configured to prevent rotational forces from acting on the pin 510 and twisting it off. The pin 510 and the bushing 520 of the separation assembly 500 are positioned to prevent the operator 40 from twisting the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 off during operation. Instead, the separation assembly 500 is configured to separate when at least a predetermined tensile force associated with the separation event is applied to the nozzle-side valve 200 and / or the tank-side valve 300.
[0076] The illustrated example separation assembly 500 also includes a cap 550 and a gasket 560. As shown in Figure 11, the cap 550 includes a cavity 552 and an opening 554 into it. The cap 550 also includes a female thread 556 adjacent to the opening 554. Returning to Figure 8, the cap 550 is screw-received by the second end 522 of the bushing 520. In particular, the female thread 556 of the cap 550 is configured to screw onto the outer portion of the male thread 526 of the bushing 520. The cap 550 is configured to screw onto the bushing 520 to tightly seal the connection between the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300. When the bushing 520 is fully screwed onto the bushing 520, the end of the cap 550 adjacent to the opening 554 engages with the gasket 560 (formed of an indium alloy) to form an airtight seal between the cap 550 and the flange 212 of the nozzle-side valve 200. Next, the cap 550 and gasket 560 surround the separation assembly 500 within the through-hole 216 and the counterbore 315, and the pin 510 hermetically seals the positioned air pocket 575, fluidly isolating it from the vacuum of the insulating layer 292 of the nozzle-side valve 200.
[0077] To assemble the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 together with one or more separation assemblies 500, the bushing 520 extends through a through hole 216. The bushing 520 is securely coupled to the flange 212 within the through hole 216, for example, through its male thread 526 and the female thread of the through hole 216. The first end 511 of the pin 510 is securely inserted into the primary hole 316 of the counterbore 315, for example, through the male thread 512 of the pin 510 and the female thread of the primary hole 316. At the same time, the pins 510 and bushings 520 of each separation assembly 500 are axially aligned with each other. The nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are pressed against each other by a clamping force such that (1) each 510 extends through its respective bushing 520, (2) the flange 524 of each bushing 520 is received in the main hole 317 of its respective counterbore 315, and (3) the opposing surface 214 of the nozzle-side valve 200 engages with the opposing surface 314 of the tank-side valve 300.
[0078] Subsequently, for each separation assembly 500, the nut 530 is screwed onto the male thread 514 of the pin 510 and engages with the second end 522 of the bushing 520 until a predetermined torque is reached. The nut 540 is then screwed onto the male thread 514 and engages with the nut 530, locking the pin 510 in place. The gasket 560 is extended over the bushing 520 and positioned to engage with the bushing 520 and the flange 212 of the nozzle-side valve 200. The cap 550 is then screwed onto the bushing 520 until the end of the cap 550 engages with the gasket 560, forming a sealed connection between the cap 550 and the flange 212 of the nozzle-side valve 200.
[0079] Figure 12 shows the separation valve 100 after the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 have been separated from each other due to a separation event. When the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 are separated from each other, each of the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 is in its respective closed configuration. For example, the poppet disc 232 of the poppet 230 is sealed-engaged with the valve base 218 to close the fluid connection between the inlet 222 and outlet 224 of the nozzle-side valve 200, and the poppet disc 332 of the poppet 330 is sealed-engaged with the valve base 318 to close the fluid connection between the inlet 322 and outlet 324 of the tank-side valve 300. Next, the nozzle-side valve 200 and the tank-side valve 300 restrict the release of cryogenic fluids such as liquid hydrogen during the separation event.
[0080] During operation, the pin 510 of the separation assembly 500 separates when at least a predetermined tensile force is applied by pulling the nozzle 26 away from the storage tank 22. When the pin 510 separates, the nozzle-side valve 200, which remains connected to the jacketed hose 24, is no longer firmly coupled to the tank-side valve 300, which remains connected to the jacketed hose 23. Next, the nozzle-side valve 200 is detached from the tank-side valve 300, and the jacketed hose 24 is pulled away from the jacketed hose 23. When the nozzle-side valve 200 is detached from the tank-side valve 300, the poppet 230 seals into the valve base 218 to close the nozzle-side valve 200, and the poppet 330 seals into the valve base 318 to close the tank-side valve 300. In a closed configuration, the nozzle-side valve 200 limits the amount of cryogenic fluid that may be released from the jacketed hose 24, and the tank-side valve 300 prevents the cryogenic fluid from being released from the storage tank 22.
[0081] Exemplary embodiments as taught herein are disclosed below.
[0082] Embodiment 1. A separation valve for use between a cryogenic tank and a nozzle for dispensing cryogenic fluid includes a first valve. The first valve includes a first valve body. The first valve body includes a first flange defining a first face surface and a through hole extending to the first face surface. The separation valve includes a second valve. The second valve includes a second valve body. The second valve body includes a second flange defining a second face surface and a counterbore having a primary hole and a main hole along the second face surface. The separation valve includes a separation assembly. The separation assembly is configured to fasten the first face surface of the first valve to the second face surface of the second valve. The separation assembly includes a bushing extending through the through hole, fixedly coupled to the first flange, and received by the main hole of the counterbore. The separation assembly includes a bushing, a pin extending through a through hole and fixedly received by a primary hole in the counterbore, and one or more nuts holding the pin in place. The pin is configured to separate the first valve from the second valve when at least a predetermined tensile force is applied, thereby separating the first valve from the second valve.
[0083] Embodiment 2. The separation valves of Embodiment 1, wherein the first valve and the second valve are in their respective open configurations to allow cryogenic fluid to flow from the cryogenic tank to the nozzle during a filling event when the first valve and the second valve are tightly coupled.
[0084] Embodiment 3. A separation valve according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, wherein when the first valve and the second valve are separated from each other in a separation event, the first valve and the second valve each enter a closed configuration to restrict the release of cryogenic fluid.
[0085] Embodiment 4. A separation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 3, further comprising a plurality of separation assemblies. The plurality of separation assemblies are arranged at equidistant distances from each other in the circumferential direction.
[0086] Embodiment 5. A separation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the first valve is a nozzle-side valve and the second valve is a tank-side valve.
[0087] Embodiment 6. The separation valve of Embodiment 5, wherein the first valve and the second valve are configured such that when they are separated from each other in a separation event, the second valve limits the leakage of cryogenic fluid in a controlled manner.
[0088] Embodiment 7. An isolation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the bushing isolates the pin from rotational forces applied to at least one of the first valve or the second valve, and does not come into contact with the pin, so as to prevent the rotational forces from acting on the pin and twisting it off.
[0089] Embodiment 8. A separation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the bushing includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end.
[0090] Embodiment 9. The isolation valve of Embodiment 8, wherein the second end includes a male thread configured to be received by a female thread in a through hole and to fixatively connect the bushing to the first flange.
[0091] Embodiment 10. The isolation valve of Embodiment 8, wherein the bushing includes a bushing flange at a first end. The first facing surface of the first flange of the first valve engages with the bushing flange to further hold the bushing in place.
[0092] Embodiment 11. A separation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the pin has an hourglass shape and includes a notch at a center point along the length of the pin. The hourglass shape and the notch define, at least partially, a predetermined tensile force that configures the pin to separate.
[0093] Embodiment 12. An isolation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the pin includes a first end that is screwably received by a primary hole in the counterbore.
[0094] An isolation valve of Embodiment 12, wherein two or more nuts, as in Embodiment 13.1, are screwably coupled to the second end of the pin.
[0095] Embodiment 14.1 or two or more nuts is an isolation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 13, including a preloaded nut and a locking nut. The preloaded nut is configured to engage with a bushing and fix a pin in a predetermined position relative to the bushing, thereby coupling the first valve and the second valve together. The locking nut is configured to engage with the preloaded nut and lock the preloaded nut in a predetermined position.
[0096] Embodiment 15. An isolation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the isolation assembly further includes a cap and a gasket, the cap being configured to form a sealing connection with the first flange of the first valve, surrounding the pin within the through-hole of the first valve and within the counterbore of the second valve to fluidly isolate the pin.
[0097] Embodiment 16. An isolation valve according to any of Embodiments 1 to 13 and 15, further comprising a face seal and one or more vacuum seals. The isolation assembly is positioned radially between the face seal and one or more vacuum seals. The face seal is positioned to fluidly isolate the isolation assembly from the fluid chambers of the first and second valves. One or more vacuum seals are positioned to fluidly isolate the isolation assembly from the thermal insulation layers of the first and second valves.
[0098] Embodiment 17. A separation assembly for a separation valve between a cryogenic tank and a nozzle for dispensing cryogenic fluid includes a bushing that extends through a through-hole of a first valve of the separation valve, is fixedly coupled to the first valve, and is configured to be received by a main hole in the counterbore of a second valve of the separation valve. The separation assembly includes a pin that extends through the bushing and the through-hole of the first valve and is configured to be fixedly received by a primary hole in the counterbore of the second valve. The separation assembly includes one or more nuts configured to fasten the first valve to the second valve by holding the pin in place. The pin is configured to separate and decouple the first valve from the second valve when at least a predetermined tensile force is applied that pulls the first valve away from the second valve.
[0099] Embodiment 18. The isolation assembly of Embodiment 17, wherein the bushing is configured to isolate the pin from rotational forces applied to at least one of the first valve or the second valve, and to not contact the pin in order to prevent the rotational forces from acting on the pin and twisting it off.
[0100] Embodiment 19. The bushing is a separate assembly of Embodiment 17 or Embodiment 18, comprising a first end and a second end opposite the first end.
[0101] Embodiment 20. The separation assembly of Embodiment 19, wherein the second end includes a male thread configured to be screw-received by a female thread in a through hole and to fix the bushing to the first valve.
[0102] Embodiment 21. The separation assembly of Embodiment 19, wherein the bushing includes a bushing flange at the first end. The bushing flange is configured to engage with the first valve to further hold the bushing in place.
[0103] Embodiment 22. A separation assembly of any of Embodiments 17 to 21, wherein the pin has an hourglass shape and includes a notch at a center point along the length of the pin. The hourglass shape and notch define, at least partially, a predetermined tensile force that configures the pin to separate.
[0104] Embodiment 23. A separation assembly of any of Embodiments 17 to 22, wherein the pin includes a first end configured to be screwably received by a primary hole in the counterbore.
[0105] Embodiment 24.1 or two or more nuts are configured to be screwably coupled to the second end of the pin in the separation assembly of Embodiment 23.
[0106] Embodiment 25.1 or two or more nuts is a separate assembly of any of Embodiments 17 to 24, including a preloaded nut and a locking nut. The preloaded nut is configured to engage with the bushing to fix the pin in place relative to the bushing, thereby coupling the first valve and the second valve together. The locking nut is configured to engage with the preloaded nut to lock the preloaded nut in place.
[0107] Embodiment 26. The isolation assembly of any of Embodiments 17 to 25, further comprising a cap and a gasket, wherein the cap is configured to surround the pin within the through-hole of the first valve and within the counterbore of the second valve, thereby fluidly isolating the pin, by forming a sealing connection with the first valve through the gasket. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0108] 100 Separation Valves 200 Nozzle-side valve 214, 314 Opposite surfaces 300 Tank-side valve 400 Sleeve Assembly 500 Separation Assembly
Claims
1. A separation valve for use between a cryogenic tank and a nozzle for dispensing cryogenic fluid, A first valve comprising a first valve body, wherein the first valve body includes a first flange defining a first face surface and a through hole extending to the first face surface, A second valve comprising a second valve body, wherein the second valve body comprises a second facing surface and a second flange defining a counterbore having a primary hole and a main hole along the second facing surface, A separation assembly configured to fasten the first facing surface of the first valve to the second facing surface of the second valve, wherein the separation assembly is A bushing extending through the through hole, fixedly coupled to the first flange, and received by the main hole of the counterbore, A pin extending through the bushing and the through hole and fixedly received by the primary hole of the counterbore, One or more nuts that hold the pin in a predetermined position, Includes, The pin is configured to separate and disconnect the first valve and the second valve when at least a predetermined tensile force is applied to pull the first valve away from the second valve. The aforementioned separation assembly, Includes a separation valve.
2. The separation valve according to claim 1, wherein the first valve and the second valve are in an open configuration, respectively, so that when the first valve and the second valve are securely coupled, the cryogenic fluid can flow from the cryogenic tank and to the nozzle during the filling event.
3. The separation valve according to claim 1, wherein when the first valve and the second valve are separated from each other in a separation event, the first valve and the second valve are in a closed configuration to restrict the release of the cryogenic fluid.
4. Further comprising multiple separate assemblies, The separation valve according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of separation assemblies include the separation assemblies, and the plurality of separation assemblies are arranged circumferentially and equidistant from one another.
5. The separation valve according to claim 1, wherein the first valve is a nozzle-side valve and the second valve is a tank-side valve.
6. The separation valve according to claim 5, wherein when the first valve and the second valve are separated from each other in a separation event, the first valve is configured to limit the leakage of the cryogenic fluid in a controlled manner.
7. The isolation valve according to claim 1, wherein the bushing does not come into contact with the pin so as to isolate the pin from a rotational force applied to at least one of the first valve or the second valve, and so as to prevent the rotational force from acting on the pin and twisting it off.
8. The separation valve according to claim 1, wherein the bushing includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end.
9. The separation valve according to claim 8, wherein the second end includes a male thread configured to be screw-received by the female thread of the through hole and to fix the bushing to the first flange.
10. The bushing includes a bushing flange at the first end, The first facing surface of the first flange of the first valve engages with the bushing flange to further hold the bushing in place. The separation valve according to claim 8.
11. The pin has an hourglass shape and includes a notch at its center along its length. The hourglass shape and the notch at least partially determine the predetermined tensile force at which the pin is separated. The separation valve according to claim 1.
12. The separation valve according to claim 1, wherein the pin includes a first end that is screwably received by the primary hole of the counterbore.
13. The separation valve according to claim 12, wherein the one or more nuts are screwably coupled to the second end of the pin.
14. The one or more nuts mentioned above include a preload nut and a locking nut. The preload nut is configured to engage with the bushing to fix the pin in a predetermined position relative to the bushing and to connect the first valve and the second valve to each other. The locking nut is configured to engage with the preload nut to lock the preload nut in a predetermined position. The separation valve according to claim 1.
15. The separation assembly further includes a cap and a gasket, The cap is configured to form a sealed connection with the first flange of the first valve through the gasket in order to surround the pin within the through hole of the first valve and the counterbore of the second valve, thereby fluidly isolating the pin. The separation valve according to claim 1.
16. Face-to-face seal and one or more vacuum seals, It further includes, The separation assembly is positioned radially between the face seal and the one or more vacuum seals. The face seal is positioned to fluidly isolate the separation assembly from the fluid chambers of the first valve and the second valve. The one or more vacuum seals are positioned to fluidly isolate the separation assembly from the insulating layers of the first valve and the second valve. The separation valve according to claim 1.