Fluid regulator with improved pressure control

Abstract

A fluid regulator assembly for a fluid such as a gas includes a housing and a regulator. The housing includes an inlet, an outlet, and a chamber. The regulator includes a control assembly coupled to the housing and including a plug and a diaphragm, and a control element. The plug is movable relative to the outlet to control the flow of fluid through the housing, and the diaphragm controls the plug in response to a control pressure acting on the diaphragm. The control element is disposed between a first position and a second position to control the control pressure acting on the diaphragm, where in the first position the control pressure is an outlet pressure downstream from the outlet and where in the second position the control pressure is at least an inlet pressure upstream from the outlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to fluid regulators such as gas regulators, particularly fluid regulators including diaphragms.

Background Art

[0002] Fluid regulators are often provided to receive a fluid at an input pressure and supply the fluid at a desired output pressure, where the desired output pressure may be significantly lower than the input pressure. For example, a gas distribution system may supply gas depending on various factors such as overall demand, mechanism, gas source, etc., and a gas regulator may be utilized to reduce the pressure of the gas supplied to an end user having gas equipment such as a furnace, oven, etc. that requires gas to be supplied at a predetermined pressure lower than the capacity of the system.

[0003] Conventional fluid regulators include either a full capacity relief valve or an overpressure shut-off (OPSO) device as a safety feature to minimize or suppress the flow of fluid to an end user in case of a failure of the fluid regulator. Such devices protect the end user, but they have several problems. For example, a full capacity relief valve releases a large amount of gas to the environment, which may cause the formation of an explosive gas mixture and / or a large release of greenhouse gases. OPSO devices are prone to malfunction, inconvenient, and can impose significant maintenance costs on utility providers. For example, an OPSO device may malfunction due to a high downstream flow rate (e.g., multiple valves are opened simultaneously, a high flow valve is opened, etc.), resulting in a pressure spike and potentially leading to the OPSO device shutting off the gas supply to the consumer. Further, if a downstream valve or system is installed too close to a regulator equipped with an OPSO device, and / or if the conduit carrying the gas is heated by sunlight and / or other environmental conditions, the OPSO device may malfunction.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The embodiments covered by this patent are defined by the following claims, not by this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various embodiments and introduces some concepts that are further described in the following detailed description sections. This summary is not intended to identify the principal or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used alone to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by referring to the appropriate parts of the entire specification of this patent, some or all of the drawings, and each claim.

[0005] According to a particular embodiment, a fluid regulator assembly for a fluid includes a housing comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a chamber located between the inlet and the outlet and in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet. The regulator includes a control assembly coupled to the housing and comprising a plug, a diaphragm operably coupled to the plug, and a control element. The plug is movable relative to the outlet to control the flow of fluid through the housing, and the diaphragm is configured to control the plug in accordance with a control pressure acting on the diaphragm. The control element is configurable between a first position and a second position to control the control pressure acting on the diaphragm between the first and second positions, in which case the control pressure is the outlet pressure downstream from the outlet, and in which case the control pressure is at least the inlet pressure upstream from the outlet.

[0006] According to some embodiments, a fluid regulator assembly for a fluid includes a housing comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a chamber located between the inlet and the outlet and in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet. The fluid regulator assembly also includes a regulator coupled to the housing. The regulator includes a control assembly comprising a plug, a diaphragm operably coupled to the plug, and a control element. The plug is movable relative to the outlet to control the flow of fluid through the housing. The control element is adjustable based on the inlet pressure upstream of the outlet, and when the inlet pressure is below a predetermined threshold pressure, the diaphragm controls the plug in accordance with the outlet pressure downstream of the outlet, and when the inlet pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold pressure, the diaphragm controls the diaphragm in accordance with the inlet pressure.

[0007] According to various embodiments, a fluid regulator assembly for a fluid includes a housing comprising a first chamber having a first chamber inlet and a first chamber outlet, and receiving fluid at the inlet pressure. The housing also includes a second chamber having a second chamber inlet and a second chamber outlet, and an intermediate passage connecting the first chamber outlet and the second chamber inlet. The fluid regulator assembly also includes a first regulator and a second regulator. The first regulator includes a first control assembly comprising a first plug and a first diaphragm operably coupled to the first plug. The first plug is movable relative to the first chamber outlet to control the flow of fluid through the first chamber outlet, and the first diaphragm is located in the first chamber and configured to position the first plug according to the intermediate pressure. The second regulator includes a second control assembly comprising a second plug, a second diaphragm operably coupled to the second plug, and a control element. A second plug is movable relative to the outlet of the second chamber to control the flow of fluid through the outlet of the second chamber, and a second diaphragm is located inside the second chamber and configured to position the second plug according to the control pressure. The control element is configured to control the control pressure according to the intermediate pressure, and such control pressure is the intermediate pressure or the outlet pressure downstream from the outlet of the second chamber.

[0008] According to certain embodiments, a fluid regulator assembly for a fluid includes a housing comprising an inlet, a chamber, and an outlet. The fluid regulator assembly also includes a regulator, at least partially provided within the chamber, which divides the chamber into an inlet pressure region and an outlet pressure region with an outlet pressure lower than the inlet pressure. The regulator can regulate the fluid from the inlet pressure to the outlet pressure and, based on the outlet pressure, control the flow of the fluid from the chamber to the outlet. In some embodiments, the regulator selectively defines a flow path from the inlet pressure region to the outlet pressure region within the chamber in response to the inlet pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0009] According to various embodiments, a fluid regulator assembly for a fluid includes a housing, a first regulator, and a second regulator. The housing includes a first chamber having a first chamber inlet and a first chamber outlet, a second chamber having a second chamber inlet and a second chamber outlet, and an intermediate passage fluid-connecting the first chamber outlet and the second chamber inlet. The first regulator is at least partially located in the first chamber and includes a first diaphragm and a first plug. The first diaphragm controls the flow of fluid from the first chamber through the first chamber outlet to the intermediate passage, and the first plug is selectively positioned to adjust the fluid from inlet pressure to intermediate pressure. The second regulator is at least partially located in the second chamber and includes a second diaphragm and a second plug. The second diaphragm controls the flow of fluid from the second chamber through the second chamber outlet, and the second plug is selectively positioned to adjust the fluid from intermediate pressure to outlet pressure. In some embodiments, the second regulator includes a switching diaphragm between the second chamber inlet and the second chamber outlet that is selectively deformable in response to the intermediate pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0010] According to several embodiments, a fluid regulator assembly for a fluid includes a housing, a first regulator, and a second regulator. The housing includes a first chamber having a first chamber inlet and a first chamber outlet, and a second chamber having a second chamber inlet and a second chamber outlet. In some embodiments, the second chamber inlet communicates with the first chamber outlet. The first regulator is located in the first chamber and divides the first chamber into an inlet pressure region of inlet pressure and an intermediate pressure region of intermediate pressure lower than the inlet pressure. In various embodiments, the first regulator adjusts the fluid from the inlet pressure to the intermediate pressure and controls the fluid flow from the inlet pressure region of the first chamber to the second chamber inlet based on the intermediate pressure. The second regulator is located in the second chamber and divides the second chamber inlet into an intermediate pressure region of intermediate pressure and an outlet pressure region of outlet pressure lower than the intermediate pressure. The second regulator adjusts the fluid from the intermediate pressure to the outlet pressure and controls the fluid flow from the second chamber to the second chamber outlet based on the outlet pressure. In some embodiments, the second regulator selectively defines a flow path from the intermediate pressure region of the second chamber to the outlet pressure region within the second chamber in response to the intermediate pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0011] The various implementations described in this specification are not necessarily expressly disclosed herein and may include additional systems, methods, features and advantages that will become apparent to the parties upon consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Such systems, methods, features and advantages are included in this disclosure and are intended to be protected by the scope of the accompanying claims.

[0012] In this specification, the following attached figures are referenced, but the use of the same reference number in different figures is intended to indicate similar or analogous components. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] Perspective view of a fluid regulator assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Perspective view of the fluid regulator assembly in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Cross-sectional view of the housing of the fluid regulator assembly shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Cross-sectional view of the fluid regulator assembly in Figure 1. [Figure 5] The control unit is in the closed position, and this is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid regulator assembly in Figure 1, cropped within range A in Figure 4. [Figure 6] The control unit is in the open position, and this is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the fluid regulator assembly in Figure 1, cropped within range A in Figure 4. [Figure 7] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a fluid regulator assembly illustrating various pressure ranges of the fluid regulator assembly. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] While the subject matter of the embodiments is described specifically in the specification to satisfy legal requirements, this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, or may be used in combination with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among the various steps or elements, except where the order of each step or the arrangement of elements is explicitly described. Among the many directional references, such as “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “front,” and “back,” are intended to point to the direction in which the description and details are given, particularly in one or more figures to which the components and directions refer. In the figures and descriptions, similar symbols are intended to represent similar elements. While the systems and methods provided in the specification are described in the context of gas conditioning, they may be used in other embodiments to condition other types of fluids as needed, and the reference to “gas” should not be considered limiting.

[0015] This specification describes fluid regulators for fluids, including fluids not limited to gases. In certain embodiments, a fluid regulator assembly includes a housing comprising two control mechanisms located within the housing. Under normal operating conditions, a first control mechanism located within the housing can reduce the fluid pressure from the inlet fluid pressure to an intermediate fluid pressure, and a second control mechanism located within the housing can reduce the fluid pressure from the intermediate fluid pressure to an outlet fluid pressure. In non-limiting examples, the first control mechanism can reduce the fluid pressure from the inlet fluid pressure to an intermediate fluid pressure of 7 kPa or less, and the second control mechanism can reduce the fluid pressure to typical household operating pressures such as less than 4 kPa, less than 3 kPa, or about 2.75 kPa. In various embodiments, if the second control mechanism fails, the first control mechanism can ensure that the downstream piping receives fluid at a maximum fluid pressure, which is the intermediate fluid pressure (e.g., about 7 kPa in a non-limiting example). In certain embodiments, if the first control mechanism fails, the second control mechanism can close the outlet of the housing, thereby protecting downstream consumers from spikes in fluid pressure. In various embodiments, the second control mechanism closes the outlet due to the deformation of the control element of the second control mechanism, thereby exposing the balance diaphragm of the second control mechanism to the entire inlet pressure of the regulator.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the fluid regulator assemblies provided herein may allow the relief valve to be set to a higher point compared to conventional regulator assemblies. In a non-limiting example, the fluid regulator assemblies provided herein may allow the relief valve to be set to a fluid pressure of 7 kPa. The ability to set the relief valve to a higher point may ensure that the fluid regulator assembly minimizes greenhouse gas emissions from the regulator assembly while ensuring a certain level of safety as required.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the fluid regulator assembly disclosed herein includes at least one regulator with a plug, a diaphragm operably connected to the plug, and a control element within the fluid regulator for controlling the pressure acting on the diaphragm. In certain embodiments, the control element can control the pressure acting on the diaphragm to either an inlet pressure or an outlet pressure, based on the inlet pressure at the inlet of the regulator. In some embodiments, the control element is selectively deformable based on the inlet pressure so that either an inlet pressure or an outlet pressure acts on the diaphragm. In certain embodiments, the control element can make the inlet pressure the pressure acting on the diaphragm when the inlet pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold pressure, and make the outlet pressure the pressure acting on the diaphragm when the inlet pressure falls below a predetermined threshold pressure. In some embodiments, the control element is a switching diaphragm within the fluid regulator, which is selectively deformable based on the inlet pressure so that either an inlet pressure or an outlet pressure acts on the diaphragm. In various embodiments, the control element can selectively define an internal flow path between two pressure regions within the fluid regulator in response to the inlet pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0018] In various embodiments, a control element that controls the pressure acting on the diaphragm can prevent the diaphragm from rupturing and protect consumers by forcibly closing the regulator. The control element optionally eliminates the need for an OPSO device, and as a result, the relief setting of the fluid regulator (i.e., the point at which the regulator exhausts into the environment) can be higher compared to conventional regulators. A higher relief setting can minimize malfunctions, such as those caused by solar radiation and other environmental heating on the fluid conduit, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, while an OPSO device shuts off the gas supply when the outlet pressure exceeds a certain level, a regulator with a control element can provide protection based on upstream events and independently of what is happening downstream, further reducing the risk of malfunction. Certain other embodiments of the regulator may provide even greater safety. In a non-limiting example, the piston of the regulator may be configured to block the regulator orifice in the event of a regulator failure. Various other benefits and advantages can be realized by the cooling systems described herein, but the foregoing description should not be considered limiting.

[0019] Figures 1 to 7 show examples of fluid regulator assemblies 100 according to various embodiments for regulating fluids such as gases. Fluid regulator assemblies 100 can regulate a fluid so that the fluid pressure drops from the inlet pressure to an outlet pressure below the inlet pressure. Fluid regulator assemblies 100 generally include a housing 102 and at least one regulator with a control element 126 for improving pressure control. In the embodiments shown, as will be described in detail below, the fluid regulator assembly 100 includes two regulators, a first regulator 104 and a second regulator 106, of which the second regulator 106 includes a control element 126.

[0020] Referring to Figures 3 to 7, in various embodiments, the housing 102 includes a housing inlet 108 for receiving fluid from a supply conduit 130 connected to a gas supply system, and a housing outlet 110 for transporting fluid via a transport conduit 132 to a downstream user such as a factory, restaurant, or apartment having one or more systems that use the fluid. As shown in Figure 7, the supply conduit 130 and / or transport conduit 132 may optionally include a control valve 134 and / or other devices or mechanisms for controlling the fluid flow upstream or downstream of the fluid regulator assembly 100.

[0021] In a particular embodiment, the housing 102 includes at least one chamber between the housing inlet 108 and the housing outlet 110, so that the fluid must pass through the chamber to move between the housing inlet 108 and the housing outlet 110. In the shown embodiment, the housing 102 includes two chambers between the housing inlet 108 and the housing outlet 110: a first chamber 112 and a second chamber 114. In this embodiment, the first chamber 112 includes a first chamber inlet 113 and a first chamber outlet 115, and the second chamber 114 includes a second chamber inlet 117 and a second chamber outlet 119. Optionally, an intermediate passage 116 fluidly connects the first chamber 112 and the second chamber 114. In this embodiment, the fluid flowing through the fluid regulator assembly 100 must pass through the first chamber inlet 113, the first chamber 112, the first chamber outlet 115, the intermediate passage 116, the second chamber inlet 117, the second chamber 114, and the second chamber outlet 119 in order to move between the housing inlet 108 and the housing outlet 110.

[0022] In a particular embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, for example, the first cover 122 is coupled to the housing 102 so as to surround the first chamber 112, and the second cover 124 is coupled to the housing 102 so as to surround the second chamber 114. In various embodiments, the first cover 122 and / or the second cover 124 are removably attached to the housing 102 so as to be selectively accessible, as needed, to the components of the chambers 112, 114 and / or the regulators 104, 106 within the chambers 112, 114. Optionally, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the first cover 122 may include a first relief function 127 for selectively discharging the first chamber 112. Similarly, the second cover 124 may optionally include a second relief function 128 for selectively discharging the second chamber 114.

[0023] With reference to Figure 4, regulators 104 and 106 will be described in detail. As previously stated, in certain embodiments, the fluid regulator assembly does not need to include two regulators, but instead may include one regulator with a control element 126 and / or multiple regulators, at least one of which include the control element 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the first regulator 104 includes a first control assembly 136 for regulating the fluid flow from the first chamber 112, through the first chamber outlet 115, to the intermediate passage 116. In certain embodiments, the first control assembly 136 adjusts the fluid from the inlet pressure to an intermediate pressure lower than the inlet pressure based on the detected intermediate pressure. Similarly, the second regulator 106 includes a second control assembly 138 for regulating the fluid flow from the second chamber 114, through the second chamber outlet 119, to the housing outlet 110. Compared to the first control assembly 136, the second control assembly 138 includes a control element 126 that selectively controls whether the second control assembly 138 controls the flow based on the intermediate pressure upstream of the second chamber outlet 119 (e.g., in the second chamber 114 and / or intermediate passage 116) or based on the outlet pressure downstream of the second chamber outlet 119. In some embodiments and as will be described in detail below, the control element 126 controls the second control assembly 138 depending on whether the intermediate pressure (or the pressure of the fluid supplied to the second regulator 106) is above or below a predetermined threshold pressure. In one, but not limited, example, the control element 126 controls the second control assembly 138 to be outlet pressure responsive based on an intermediate pressure below a predetermined threshold pressure, and the control element 126 controls the second control assembly 138 to be intermediate pressure responsive based on the intermediate pressure being above a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0024] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the first control assembly 136 includes a plug 140, a diaphragm 142, and a piston (or stem) 144. The plug 140 can be any of a variety of suitable devices or functions for selectively blocking or allowing the flow of fluid from the first chamber 112 through the first chamber outlet 115. The particular plug 140 shown in FIG. 4 should not be considered limiting. In various embodiments, and as described in detail below, the plug 140 can be arranged by the diaphragm 142 such that the plug 140 is movable relative to the first chamber outlet 115 between an open position and a closed position. Optionally, the plug 140 includes one or more seal elements that selectively form a seal with the first chamber outlet 115 when the plug 140 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 4, the plug 140 is at least partially disposed within the first chamber outlet 115 and / or is at least partially downstream of the first chamber outlet 115. However, in other embodiments, the plug 140 can be positioned at a desired location relative to the first chamber outlet 115 to selectively block or allow the flow through the first chamber outlet 115.

[0025] The piston 144 operably connects the plug 140 and the diaphragm 142 such that the diaphragm 142 selectively positions the plug 140 relative to the first chamber outlet 115. In various embodiments, and as shown in Figure 4, a support 146 supports the piston 144, and the piston 144 may be movable relative to the support 146. In some embodiments, the support 146 can divide the first chamber 112 into a first pressure region 148 and a second pressure region 150. The first pressure region 148 may contain fluid at the inlet pressure, and the second pressure region 150 may contain fluid at the intermediate pressure. In these embodiments, and as shown in Figure 4, the piston 144 optionally defines a passage 151 extending from the intermediate passage 116 to the second pressure region 150, together with the plug 140, so that the second pressure region 150 is in fluid communication with the intermediate passage 116. In certain embodiments, the piston 144 has a block shape or profile, and if the piston 144 fails, the piston 144 may block the first chamber outlet 115.

[0026] The diaphragm 142 may be supported within a second pressure region 150 of the first chamber 112, and the diaphragm 142 may sense and respond to intermediate pressure fluid. The diaphragm 142 may be various suitable flexible devices or components as needed. Optionally, a bias member 152, including but not limited to a spring, applies a bias force to the diaphragm 142 and offsets the intermediate pressure acting on the diaphragm 142. In certain embodiments, the bias member 152 is adjustable and can be set to a desired balance pressure by adjusting the bias member 152.

[0027] An example of fluid control using the first regulator 104 to adjust from inlet pressure to intermediate pressure is described below. In one example, a decrease or decline in intermediate pressure is detected by the diaphragm 142 (i.e., the intermediate pressure acting on the diaphragm 142 decreases), and the detected decrease in intermediate pressure causes the diaphragm 142 to move to the right in Figure 4. In particular, the diaphragm 142 moves to the right to maintain a balance between the bias force applied by the bias member 152 and the intermediate pressure. As a result of the movement of the diaphragm 142, the plug 140 moves away from the first chamber outlet 115 (for example, further into the intermediate passage 116), and the first chamber outlet 115 opens to increase the fluid flow through the first chamber outlet 115, thereby increasing the intermediate pressure. Conversely, an increase or rise in intermediate pressure is detected by the diaphragm 142, and the detected increase in intermediate pressure causes the diaphragm 142 to move to the left in Figure 4. Such movement maintains a balance between the bias force applied by the bias member 152 and the increased intermediate pressure. In this example, as a result of the movement by the diaphragm 142, the plug 140 moves toward the first chamber outlet 115, closing and / or restricting the fluid flow through the first chamber outlet 115 and reducing the intermediate pressure.

[0028] Similar to the first control assembly 136, the second control assembly 138 of the second regulator 106 includes a plug 154, a diaphragm 156, and a piston 158. The plug 154 can be a variety of suitable devices or functions for selectively blocking or allowing the flow of fluid from the second chamber 114 through the second chamber outlet 119. In some embodiments, and as shown in Figure 4, at least one characteristic of the plug 154 may differ from that of the plug 140. However, in other embodiments, the plug 154 may be substantially the same as the plug 140. The plug 154 is configurable by the diaphragm 156 such that the plug 154 is movable relative to the second chamber outlet 119 between an open position and a closed position. In certain cases, the plug 154 optionally includes one or more sealing elements, one or more of which selectively form a seal with the second chamber outlet 119 when the plug 154 is in the closed position.

[0029] The piston 158 operably connects the plug 154 and the diaphragm 156 such that the diaphragm 156 selectively positions the plug 154 relative to the second chamber outlet 119. In various embodiments, and as shown in Figure 4, a support 160 supports the piston 158, and the piston 158 may be movable relative to the support 160. Compared to the support 146, the support 160 defines a passage 170 (see Figure 4), which is selectively opened and closed by a control element 126. In some embodiments, the support 160, in conjunction with the control element 126, can divide the second chamber 114 into a first pressure region 162 and a second pressure region 164. The first pressure region 162 may contain fluid at an intermediate pressure, and the second pressure region 164 may contain fluid at the outlet pressure. Thus, the first pressure region 162 may be an intermediate pressure region, and the second pressure region 164 may be an outlet pressure region.

[0030] In certain embodiments, and as shown in Figure 4, the piston 158 optionally includes a plug 154 that defines a passage 166 extending from downstream of the second chamber outlet 119 to a second pressure region 164. In such an example, the second pressure region 164 is in fluid communication with the housing 102 downstream of the second chamber outlet 119 via the piston 158, and fluid at the outlet pressure can be supplied to the second pressure region 164 via the piston 158. Similar to the piston 144, the piston 158 optionally includes a block shape or profile so that, in the event of piston 158 failure, the piston 158 can selectively block the second chamber outlet 119.

[0031] The diaphragm 156 may be supported within a second pressure region 164 of the second chamber 114, and may be various suitable flexible devices and components as needed. Optionally, a bias member 168, including but not limited to a spring, applies a bias force to the diaphragm 156 and offsets the pressure acting on the diaphragm 156. In certain embodiments, the bias member 168 is adjustable and can be set to a desired balance pressure by adjusting the bias member 168. As will be described in detail below, the diaphragm 156 may selectively position the plug 154 relative to the control element 126 based on the intermediate pressure or outlet pressure.

[0032] The control element 126 of the second regulator 106 is supported on the support 160 such that the control element 126 and the support 160 divide the second chamber 114 at least partially into a first pressure region 162 and a second pressure region 164. As described above, in certain embodiments, the control element 126 is movable relative to the support 160 between a first (or closed) position (see, for example, Figure 5) and a second (or open) position (see, for example, Figure 6), and the control element 126 selectively opens and closes the passage 170 and selectively defines the flow path region 171 from the first pressure region 162 to the second pressure region 164. In some cases, in the first position, the first pressure region 162 is not fluidly connected to the second pressure region 164 within the second chamber 114 (for example, pressure regions 162 and 164 are partially separated), while in the second position, the first pressure region 162 is fluidly connected to the second pressure region 164 within the second chamber 114 (for example, pressure regions 162 and 164 are partially separated).

[0033] In some embodiments, the control element 126 is movable between a first position and a second position based on an intermediate pressure within a first pressure region 162, and the control element 126 can be various suitable devices or mechanisms for sensing and responding to the intermediate pressure. In the shown embodiments, the control element 126 is a switching diaphragm made of a flexible material, and the switching diaphragm may be selectively deformable to move the control element 126 from the first position to the second position. In other embodiments, other suitable mechanisms or devices may be used as the control element 126 as needed.

[0034] As best illustrated in Figure 5, in a particular embodiment, in the first position, the control element 126 blocks the passage 170, and the flow path is not defined between pressure regions 162 and 164. In these embodiments, the diaphragm 156 controls the position of the plug 154 based on the outlet pressure. As an example, the fluid at the outlet pressure flows from the region downstream of the second chamber outlet 119 through the piston 158 to the second pressure region 164, and the fluid at the outlet pressure acts on the diaphragm 156 to position the plug 154. Figure 4 also shows the control element 126 in the first position.

[0035] As best illustrated in Figure 6, in the second position, the control element 126 opens the passage 170 so that the flow path region 171 is defined between the pressure regions 162 and 164, allowing fluid to flow from the second pressure region 164 through the flow path region 171 to the first pressure region 162. In the second position of the control element 126, the diaphragm 156 controls the position of the plug 154 based on the intermediate pressure or the pressure downstream of the second chamber outlet 119.

[0036] In various embodiments, the control element 126 is movable from a first position to a second position based on the detected intermediate pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure. The predetermined threshold pressure may vary as needed. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold pressure may be greater than the safety pressure or other pressures to which the consumer is protected. As one example that is not limited, the predetermined threshold pressure may be about 6.5 kPa to about 15 kPa, about 6.5 kPa to about 10 kPa, about 6.5 kPa to about 7.0 kPa, etc. However, in other embodiments, the predetermined threshold pressure may be set to various other pressures as needed.

[0037] An unspecified example of flow control using the second regulator 106 is described in detail below. In the first example, the control element 126 can detect that the intermediate pressure is below a predetermined threshold pressure and remain in the first position. In this example and while the intermediate pressure is below the predetermined threshold pressure, the second regulator 106 functions similarly to the first regulator 104. For example, a decreased or decreasing outlet pressure (downstream of the second chamber outlet 119) is detected by the diaphragm 156, and the detected decrease in intermediate pressure may cause the diaphragm 156 to move downward in Figure 4. In particular, the diaphragm 156 moves downward to maintain a balance between the bias force applied by the bias member 168 and the outlet pressure. As a result of the movement of the diaphragm 156, the plug 154 moves away from the second chamber outlet 119, the second chamber outlet 119 opens, the fluid flow through the second chamber outlet 119 increases, and the outlet pressure increases. Conversely, while the intermediate pressure is below a predetermined threshold pressure, any increased or increasing outlet pressure is detected by the diaphragm 156, and the detected increase in outlet pressure causes the diaphragm 156 to move upward in Figure 4. Such movement maintains a balance between the bias force applied by the bias member 168 and the increased outlet pressure. As a result of this movement by the diaphragm 156, the plug 154 moves toward the second chamber outlet 119, closing and / or restricting the fluid flow through the second chamber outlet 119 and reducing the outlet pressure.

[0038] In the second example, the control element 126 detects that the intermediate pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold pressure and moves to a second position, for example, as shown in Figure 6, so that the flow path region 171 is defined between pressure regions 162 and 164. In this example, and while the intermediate pressure exceeds the predetermined threshold pressure, the intermediate pressure acts on the diaphragm 156 rather than the outlet pressure, and the diaphragm 156 balances the bias force applied by the bias member 168 with the intermediate pressure.

[0039] Figure 7 shows the various pressure regions within the fluid regulator assembly 100 during normal operation. In this embodiment, the densely packed large dot pattern 501 indicates the region where the fluid is at the inlet pressure, the densely packed thick dot pattern 503 indicates the region where the fluid is at the intermediate pressure, and the densely packed small dot pattern 505 indicates the region where the fluid is at the outlet pressure. During normal operation, the first regulator 104 reduces the fluid pressure from the inlet pressure to an intermediate pressure lower than the inlet pressure, and the second regulator 106 reduces the fluid pressure from the intermediate pressure to an outlet pressure lower than the intermediate pressure. In one non-limiting example, the inlet pressure may be higher than 20 kPa, for example, from 20 kPa to about 800 kPa, but in other embodiments, the inlet pressure may be various other inlet pressures as needed. In an example that is not limited, the intermediate pressure may be 4.0 to 7.0 kPa, for example 4.0 to 6.5 kPa, and in other embodiments, the intermediate pressure may be various other intermediate pressures lower than the inlet pressure as needed. In an example that is not limited, the outlet pressure may be 1.0 kPa to 3.0 kPa, for example 2.0 to 3.0 kPa, for example 1.1 to 1.5 kPa, and in other embodiments, the outlet pressure may be various other outlet pressures lower than the inlet pressure as needed.

[0040] As described above, the control device 126 of the second regulator 106 can control the second regulator 106 such that the diaphragm 156 moves the plug 154 based on the outlet pressure when the intermediate pressure is below a predetermined threshold. When the intermediate pressure exceeds the predetermined threshold, the control element 126 deforms and / or opens the passage 170 so that the intermediate pressure acts on the diaphragm 156 and the diaphragm 156 moves the plug 154 based on the intermediate pressure.

[0041] The control of the fluid using the fluid regulator assembly 100 is described in the following example. The specific pressure values ​​described in this example should not be considered limiting. In this example, during normal operation, the fluid regulator assembly receives fluid at the housing inlet 108 and at an inlet pressure of 20 to 500 kPa. The first regulator 104 is controlled by the intermediate pressure acting on the diaphragm 142 to control the flow of fluid through the first chamber outlet 115 (for example, the diaphragm 142 moves the plug 140 based on the intermediate pressure, thereby controlling the flow of fluid through the first chamber outlet 115). Such control by the first regulator 106 reduces the pressure from the inlet pressure to an intermediate pressure of 4.0 to 6.5 kPa. The fluid at the intermediate pressure is supplied to the second regulator 106. The control element 126 of the second regulator 106 may be set so that a predetermined threshold pressure is 6.5 kPa. In this initial stage, when the intermediate pressure is 4.0–6.5 kPa (or below a predetermined threshold pressure), the control element 126 remains in the first position, and the second regulator 106 is controlled by the outlet pressure acting on the diaphragm 156 to control the fluid flow through the second chamber outlet 119 (for example, the diaphragm 156 moves the plug 154 based on the outlet pressure, thereby controlling the fluid flow through the second chamber outlet 119). Such control reduces the pressure from the intermediate pressure to an outlet pressure of 1.1–3.0 kPa, for example, an outlet pressure of 1.1–1.5 kPa. During operation, the fluid regulator assembly 100 may experience a failure of the first regulator 104, making it impossible to adjust the inlet pressure from 20–500 kPa to 4.0–6.5 kPa. For example, a failed first regulator 104 may adjust the inlet pressure to an increased intermediate pressure of 12–17 kPa. In this example, the control element 126 detects that the increased intermediate pressure (12-17 kPa) is greater than a predetermined threshold pressure (6.5 kPa), causing the control element 126 to deform and / or open the passage 170, allowing the fluid with the increased intermediate pressure to act on the diaphragm 156.In this example, the sudden change in pressure acting on the diaphragm 156 (i.e., 12-17 kPa in the increased intermediate pressure compared to 1.1-3.0 kPa in the normal state) occurs when the diaphragm 156 moves the plug 154 and closes the second chamber outlet 119.

[0042] The aforementioned control by the control element 126 can prevent the diaphragm 156 from rupturing and protect the user from a sudden rise in fluid pressure. This control by the control element 126 can also eliminate the need for an OPSO device. In certain embodiments, the control element 126 can also set the discharge via the relief functions 127, 128 to a higher pressure compared to conventional regulators, which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions into the environment compared to conventional regulators.

[0043] A collection of examples is provided below, including at least some expressly listed as “Examples” that provide further explanations of various embodiments in accordance with the concepts described herein. These examples are not intended to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive, and the disclosure is not limited to these examples, but rather encompasses all possible modifications and changes within the scope of the published claims and their equivalents.

[0044] Example 1. A fluid regulator assembly for a fluid, comprising a housing including an inlet, an outlet, and a chamber located between the inlet and outlet and in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet; and a regulator coupled to the housing and comprising a control assembly. The control assembly comprises a plug, a diaphragm operably coupled to the plug, and a control element. The plug is movable relative to the outlet to control the flow of fluid through the housing. The diaphragm is configured to control the plug in response to a control pressure acting on the diaphragm. The control element is configurable between a first position and a second position to control the control pressure acting on the diaphragm. In the first position, the control pressure is the outlet pressure downstream of the outlet. In the second position, the control pressure is at least the inlet pressure upstream of the outlet.

[0045] Example 2. In a fluid regulator assembly of the above or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the control element is movable from a first position to a second position in response to an inlet pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0046] Example 3. In the fluid regulator assembly described above or in the following examples or combinations thereof, a predetermined threshold pressure is greater than 7.0 kPa.

[0047] Example 4. In the fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the control element is a switching diaphragm in a chamber. The diaphragm is deformable within the chamber so that it can be positioned between a first position and a second position.

[0048] Example 5. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the regulator further comprises a piston connecting a diaphragm and a plug, a support in a chamber which supports the piston in the chamber such that the piston is movable in accordance with the support, a support which supports a control element in the chamber, and a bias member which biases the diaphragm.

[0049] Example 6. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, in the first position, the control element divides the chamber into an inlet pressure region and an outlet pressure region. The outlet pressure is lower than the inlet pressure. A flow path is defined through the outlet to the outlet pressure region.

[0050] Example 7. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination thereof, the regulator further comprises a piston connecting a diaphragm and a plug. The piston extends at least partially into the outlet. The piston has a passage through which a flow path is defined, passing through the outlet and the piston and into the outlet pressure region of the chamber.

[0051] Example 8. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, in the second position, the control element is deformed such that a flow path is defined within the chamber from the inlet pressure region to the outlet pressure region.

[0052] Example 9. A fluid regulator assembly for a fluid comprises a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and a chamber located between the inlet and the outlet and in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet; and a regulator coupled to the housing and including a control assembly. The control assembly comprises a plug, a diaphragm operably coupled to the plug, and a control element. The plug is movable relative to the outlet to control the flow of fluid through the housing. The control element is adjustable based on the inlet pressure upstream of the outlet, and when the inlet pressure is below a predetermined threshold pressure, the diaphragm controls the plug in accordance with the outlet pressure downstream of the outlet; and when the inlet pressure is above a predetermined threshold pressure, the diaphragm controls the plug in accordance with the inlet pressure.

[0053] Example 10. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the regulator further comprises a piston connecting a diaphragm and a plug, configured to block an outlet in the event of piston failure, and a support in a chamber. The support supports the piston in the chamber so that the piston is movable relative to the support. The support supports a control element in the chamber.

[0054] Example 11. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the control element divides the chamber into an inlet pressure region and an outlet pressure region depending on whether the inlet pressure is below a predetermined threshold pressure. The diaphragm is located in the outlet pressure region. The outlet pressure is lower than the inlet pressure. A flow path is defined through the outlet to the outlet pressure region.

[0055] Example 12. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the regulator further comprises a piston connecting a diaphragm and a plug. The piston extends at least partially toward an outlet. The piston has a passage from the outlet through the piston such that a flow path is defined toward the outlet pressure region of the chamber.

[0056] Example 13. In the fluid regulator assemblies of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the control element is a switching diaphragm in a chamber. The diaphragm is deformable within the chamber so that the piston is controlled in response to the outlet pressure or inlet pressure.

[0057] Example 14. A fluid regulator assembly for a fluid, the fluid regulator assembly comprising a housing comprising a first chamber having a first chamber inlet and a first chamber outlet configured to receive fluid at an inlet pressure, a second chamber having a second chamber inlet and a second chamber outlet, and an intermediate passage connecting the first chamber outlet and the second chamber inlet, and a first control assembly comprising a first plug and a first diaphragm operably connected to the first plug, wherein the first plug is movable relative to the first chamber outlet to control the flow of fluid through the first chamber outlet, and the first diaphragm is located in the first chamber and responds to the intermediate pressure The present invention further comprises a first regulator comprising a first control assembly configured to position a first plug, and a second regulator comprising a second control assembly comprising a second plug, a second diaphragm operably connected to the second plug, and a control element, wherein the second plug is movable relative to the second chamber outlet to control the flow of fluid through the second chamber outlet, the second diaphragm is located in the second chamber and configured to position the second plug according to the control pressure, and the control element is configured to control the control pressure according to the intermediate pressure such that the control pressure is the intermediate pressure or the outlet pressure downstream of the second chamber outlet.

[0058] Example 15. In a fluid regulator assembly of the above or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the control element is configured to control the control pressure as the intermediate pressure or outlet pressure in response to the intermediate pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure. Below the predetermined threshold pressure, the control element controls the second regulator so that the outlet pressure becomes the control pressure. Above the predetermined threshold pressure, the control element controls the second regulator so that the intermediate pressure becomes the control pressure.

[0059] Example 16. In the fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the control element is a switching diaphragm in a second chamber. The switching diaphragm is selectively deformable in response to the intermediate pressure, such that the second plug is positioned according to the intermediate pressure or the outlet pressure.

[0060] Example 17. In some of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, a fluid regulator assembly is configured such that the control element divides the second chamber into an intermediate pressure region and an outlet pressure region, depending on whether the intermediate pressure is below a predetermined threshold pressure. The intermediate pressure region is where the intermediate pressure is, and the outlet pressure region is where the outlet pressure is. The second diaphragm is located in the outlet pressure region. The outlet pressure is lower than the intermediate pressure. A flow path is defined from the outlet of the second chamber to the intermediate pressure region.

[0061] Example 18. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination thereof, the second regulator further comprises a piston connecting the second diaphragm and the second plug. The piston extends at least partially to the outlet of the second chamber. The piston has a passage through which a flow path is defined from the outlet through the piston to the outlet pressure of the chamber.

[0062] Example 19. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the first regulator further comprises a piston connecting a first diaphragm and a first plug, and a support in a first chamber. The support supports the piston in the first chamber such that the piston is movable relative to the support. The support divides the first chamber into an inlet pressure region and an intermediate pressure region. The first diaphragm is located in the intermediate pressure region.

[0063] Example 20. In the fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the piston extends at least partially into the intermediate passage. The piston defines a passage that fluidly connects the intermediate pressure region of the first chamber to the intermediate passage.

[0064] Example 21. In a fluid regulator assembly for a fluid, the fluid regulator assembly comprises an inlet, a chamber, and an outlet, wherein the chamber comprises a housing that fluid-connects the inlet and the outlet, and a regulator at least partially located within the chamber that divides the chamber into an inlet pressure region of inlet pressure and an outlet pressure region of outlet pressure lower than the inlet pressure. The regulator is configured to adjust the fluid from the inlet pressure to the outlet pressure and to control the flow of fluid from the chamber to the outlet based on the outlet pressure. The regulator is configured to define a flow path within the chamber from the inlet pressure region to the outlet pressure region in response to an intermediate pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0065] Example 22. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the regulator comprises a diaphragm located in the outlet pressure region, a bias member that applies a bias force to the diaphragm, and a plug operably connected to the diaphragm. The diaphragm is configured to regulate the fluid flow from the inlet pressure to the outlet pressure and to regulate the fluid flow path from the chamber to the outlet by balancing the outlet pressure and the bias force. The balancing by the diaphragm positions the plug relative to the outlet.

[0066] Example 23. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the regulator further comprises a switching diaphragm located in a chamber and separating an outlet pressure region from an inlet pressure region. The switching diaphragm is selectively deformable so as to selectively define a flow path from the inlet pressure region to the outlet pressure region by the regulator.

[0067] Example 24. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination thereof, the regulator further comprises a support and a piston supported by the support and movable relative to the support. A plug is operably connected to a diaphragm via the piston. The piston is configured to block the outlet in the event of piston failure.

[0068] Example 25. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination thereof, the regulator further comprises a support; a piston supported by the support and movable relative to the support; a first diaphragm connected to the piston and configured to position the piston relative to the support; and a second diaphragm connected to the support and separating an outlet pressure region from an inlet pressure region. The second diaphragm is selectively deformable in response to the inlet pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure. The deformation of the second diaphragm defines a flow path within the chamber from the inlet pressure region to the outlet pressure region.

[0069] Example 26. In the fluid regulator assembly described above or in the following examples or combinations thereof, the predetermined threshold pressure is 7.0 kPa.

[0070] Example 27. A fluid regulator assembly for a fluid, comprising a housing comprising a first chamber having a first chamber inlet and a first chamber outlet, a second chamber having a second chamber inlet and a second chamber outlet, and an intermediate passage fluid-connecting the first chamber outlet and the second chamber inlet; a first regulator comprising a first diaphragm at least partially located in the first chamber and configured to selectively position a first plug to control the fluid flow from the first chamber to the intermediate passage through the first chamber outlet and to adjust the fluid from inlet pressure to intermediate pressure; and a second regulator at least partially located in the second chamber and comprising a second diaphragm and a second plug. The second diaphragm is configured to selectively position a second plug to control the fluid flow from the second chamber to the second chamber outlet and to adjust the fluid from inlet pressure to outlet pressure. The second regulator further comprises a switching diaphragm between the second chamber inlet and the second chamber outlet, which is selectively deformable in response to the intermediate pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0071] Example 28. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the first regulator further comprises a first bias member that applies a first bias force to a first diaphragm. The first diaphragm controls the flow of fluid from a first chamber through the outlet of the first chamber to an intermediate passage and is configured to position a first plug to adjust the fluid from the inlet pressure to the intermediate pressure by balancing the intermediate pressure and the first bias force. Balancing by the first diaphragm positions the first plug relative to the outlet of the first chamber. The second regulator further comprises a second bias member that applies a second bias force to a second diaphragm. The second diaphragm controls the flow of fluid from a second chamber through the outlet of the second chamber and is configured to position a second plug to adjust the fluid from the intermediate pressure to the outlet pressure by balancing the outlet pressure and the second bias force. Balancing by the second diaphragm positions the second plug relative to the outlet of the second chamber.

[0072] Example 29. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, at least one of the first bias member or the second bias member is adjustable such that at least one of the first bias force or the second bias force is adjustable.

[0073] Example 30. In some of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations of examples, the fluid regulator assembly has a given threshold pressure greater than 6.5 kPa.

[0074] Example 31. In some of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations of examples, the fluid regulator assembly further comprises a support and a piston supported by the support and movable relative to the support. The second plug is operably connected to a second diaphragm via the piston. The piston is configured to block the outlet of the second chamber in the event of piston failure.

[0075] Example 32. In a fluid regulator assembly of the above or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the first regulator divides the first chamber into an inlet pressure region of inlet pressure and an intermediate pressure region of intermediate pressure lower than the inlet pressure. The first diaphragm is located in the intermediate pressure region of the first chamber. The first regulator includes a passage that fluidically communicates an intermediate passage with the intermediate pressure region of the first chamber. The switching diaphragm of the second regulator divides the second chamber into an intermediate pressure region of intermediate pressure and an outlet pressure region of outlet pressure lower than the intermediate pressure region. The second diaphragm is located in the outlet pressure region. The second regulator includes a passage that fluidly communicates a second chamber with the outlet pressure region of the second chamber.

[0076] Example 33. In the fluid regulator assembly described above or in the following examples or combinations thereof, the inlet pressure is greater than 20 kPa. The intermediate pressure is between 4.0 kPa and 6.5 kPa. The outlet pressure is less than 4.0 kPa.

[0077] Example 34. A fluid regulator assembly for a fluid, comprising a housing comprising: a first chamber having a first chamber inlet and a first chamber outlet, a second chamber having a second chamber inlet and a second chamber outlet, the second chamber inlet being in fluid communication with the first chamber outlet; a first regulator located within the first chamber and configured to divide the first chamber into an inlet pressure region of inlet pressure and an intermediate pressure region of intermediate pressure lower than the inlet pressure, the first regulator being configured to adjust the fluid from the inlet pressure to the intermediate pressure and to control the fluid flow from the inlet pressure region of the first chamber to the second chamber inlet based on the intermediate pressure region; and a second regulator located within the second chamber and dividing the second chamber into an intermediate pressure region of intermediate pressure and an outlet pressure region of outlet pressure lower than the intermediate pressure. The second regulator is configured to adjust the fluid from the intermediate pressure to the outlet pressure and to control the fluid flow from the second chamber to the second chamber outlet based on the outlet pressure. The second regulator is configured to define the flow path from the intermediate pressure region of the second chamber to the outlet pressure region within the second chamber in response to the intermediate pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure.

[0078] Example 35. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the second regulator comprises a diaphragm located in the outlet pressure region, a bias member that applies a bias force to the diaphragm, and a plug operably connected to the diaphragm. The diaphragm is configured to regulate from an intermediate pressure to an outlet pressure and to control the fluid flow from the chamber through the outlet of the second chamber by balancing the outlet pressure and the bias force. The balancing by the diaphragm involves positioning the plug relative to the outlet of the second chamber.

[0079] Example 36. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the second regulator further comprises a switching diaphragm located in a second chamber and separating the outlet pressure region from the intermediate pressure. The switching diaphragm is selectively deformable such that the flow path from the inlet pressure region to the outlet pressure region is selectively defined by the second regulator.

[0080] Example 37. In some of the preceding or subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the fluid regulator assembly further comprises a support and a piston supported by the support and movable relative to the support. A plug is operably connected to a diaphragm via the piston. The piston is configured to block the outlet of the second chamber in the event of piston failure.

[0081] Example 38. In a fluid regulator assembly of the preceding or subsequent examples or combination thereof, the second regulator further comprises a support, a piston supported by the support and movable relative to the support, a first diaphragm connected to the piston and configured to position the piston relative to the support, and a second diaphragm connected to the support and separating an outlet pressure region from an intermediate pressure region. The second diaphragm is selectively deformable in response to the intermediate pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure. The deformation of the second diaphragm defines a flow path from an inlet pressure region to an outlet pressure region within the chamber.

[0082] Example 39. In the fluid regulator assembly described above or in subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the inlet pressure is greater than 20 kPa. The intermediate pressure is between 4.0 kPa and 6.5 kPa. The outlet pressure is less than 4.0 kPa.

[0083] Example 40. In the fluid regulator assembly described above or in subsequent examples or combinations thereof, the predetermined threshold pressure is 7.0 kPa.

[0084] The embodiments described above are merely examples of possible implementations and are presented solely to facilitate a clear understanding of the principles of this disclosure. Many changes and modifications can be made to the embodiments described above without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of this disclosure. All such changes and modifications are intended to be included in the specification within the scope of this disclosure, and all possible claims for individual embodiments or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by this disclosure. Furthermore, while certain terms are used in the specification and the following claims, they are used in a general and descriptive sense only and are not used to limit the disclosed embodiments or the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the fluid pressure of a fluid using a fluid regulator assembly, Under normal conditions, The steps include receiving the fluid at the inlet of the fluid regulator assembly at the inlet fluid pressure, The steps include: using a first control mechanism to lower the inlet fluid pressure so that the fluid reaches an intermediate fluid pressure; The steps include: using a second control mechanism to reduce the intermediate fluid pressure so that the fluid at the outlet of the fluid regulator assembly becomes the outlet fluid pressure; Equipped with, The aforementioned method, In response to a failure in the second control mechanism, the first control mechanism controls the fluid so that it reaches the intermediate fluid pressure at the outlet of the fluid regulator assembly; The second control mechanism further includes the step of closing the outlet of the fluid regulator assembly in response to a failure of the first control mechanism, The step of closing the outlet by the second control mechanism comprises the step of deforming the control element so that the fluid at the inlet fluid pressure acts on the balance diaphragm of the fluid regulator assembly. method.

2. The method further comprises the step of using a relief valve to discharge the fluid from the housing based on the intermediate fluid pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure. The method according to claim 1.

3. The step of discharging the fluid includes a step of discharging the fluid based on the intermediate fluid pressure exceeding 7 kPa. The method according to claim 2.

4. The intermediate fluid pressure is less than 7 kPa, and the outlet fluid pressure is less than 4 kPa. The method according to claim 1.

5. The outlet fluid pressure is less than 3 kPa. The method according to claim 4.

6. A method for controlling fluid from a fluid regulator assembly, The step of providing a fluid regulator assembly comprising a housing, a first control mechanism located within the housing, and a second control mechanism located within the housing, wherein the first control mechanism is configured to reduce the fluid pressure of the fluid from the inlet fluid pressure to an intermediate fluid pressure, and the second control mechanism is configured to reduce the fluid pressure of the fluid from the intermediate fluid pressure to an outlet fluid pressure, In response to a failure of the second control mechanism, the first control mechanism controls the fluid so that the fluid pressure at the outlet of the housing becomes the intermediate fluid pressure; In response to a failure of the first control mechanism, the second control mechanism closes the outlet of the housing, Equipped with, The second control mechanism comprises a deformable control element and a balance diaphragm, The deformable control element is configured to control the fluid acting on the balance diaphragm. method.

7. The method further comprises the step of using a relief valve to discharge the fluid from the housing based on the intermediate fluid pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure. The method according to claim 6.

8. The step of discharging the fluid includes a step of discharging the fluid based on the intermediate fluid pressure exceeding 7 kPa. The method according to claim 7.

9. The intermediate fluid pressure is less than 7 kPa, and the outlet fluid pressure is less than 4 kPa. The method according to claim 6.

10. The outlet fluid pressure is less than 3 kPa. The method according to claim 9.

11. The step of closing the outlet by the second control mechanism comprises the step of deforming the control element so that the fluid at the inlet fluid pressure acts on the balance diaphragm of the fluid regulator assembly. The method according to claim 6.

12. A fluid regulator assembly for a fluid, A housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing being configured to receive the fluid having the inlet fluid pressure of the inlet, A first control mechanism located within the housing is configured to control the fluid so as to reduce the inlet fluid pressure to an intermediate fluid pressure, A second control mechanism located within the housing is configured to control the fluid so as to reduce the intermediate fluid pressure to the outlet fluid pressure, Equipped with, In response to a failure of the second control mechanism, the first control mechanism is configured to control the fluid so that the fluid at the outlet reaches the intermediate fluid pressure. The second control mechanism is configured to close the outlet in response to a failure of the first control mechanism. The second control mechanism comprises a deformable control element and a balance diaphragm, The deformable control element is configured to control the fluid acting on the balance diaphragm. Fluid regulator assembly.

13. The intermediate fluid pressure is 7 kPa or less, and the outlet fluid pressure is less than 4 kPa. The fluid regulator assembly according to claim 12.

14. The system further comprises a relief valve configured to discharge the fluid from the fluid regulator assembly based on the intermediate fluid pressure exceeding a predetermined threshold pressure. The fluid regulator assembly according to claim 12.

15. The relief valve is configured to discharge the fluid when the intermediate fluid pressure exceeds 7 kPa. The fluid regulator assembly according to claim 14.

16. The deformable control element is configured to deform in response to the failure of the first control mechanism so that the fluid at the inlet fluid pressure acts on the balance diaphragm. The fluid regulator assembly according to claim 12.

17. The housing comprises a first chamber, a second chamber, and an intermediate passage connecting the first chamber and the second chamber. The first control mechanism is located in the first chamber and comprises a first plug and a first diaphragm operably coupled to the first plug. The first diaphragm is configured to accommodate the first plug, The second regulator is located within the second chamber and comprises a second plug, a second diaphragm operably coupled to the second plug, and a control element. The second diaphragm is configured to accommodate the second plug, The control element is configured to control the fluid acting on the second diaphragm so that it becomes the fluid at the outlet fluid pressure or the fluid at the inlet fluid pressure. The fluid regulator assembly according to claim 12.

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