Cryogenic Coupling Receptacle With Drying Module Against Ice Buildup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing receptacles for cryogenic couplings do not effectively address the issue of ice deposition, leading to prolonged fluid transfer durations and potential leaks due to ice accumulation.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle equipped with a drying module that includes a circulation channel for drying gas, an intake valve, and a discharge valve, allowing for the heating and drying of cryogenic couplings, thereby preventing ice deposition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the coupling is disconnected and stored in the receptacle without heating/drying, then the storage time is extended, but ice deposits form on the coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The drying module performs heating and drying of the coupling before it is fully stored in the receptacle. The circulation channel directs drying gas through the coupling to prevent ice formation during the storage period, addressing the harmful effect before it can accumulate
Solution Approach 2:
A drying gas (such as nitrogen or heated air) is introduced as an intermediary substance to prevent ice formation on the coupling. The gas circulates through the coupling via the circulation channel, acting as a protective medium that prevents moisture condensation and ice deposition during storage
2Stress or pressure
If the hose is heated to limit pressure increase during long storage, then pressure control is improved, but the hose must be cooled again before next use
Solution Approach 1:
The drying module is made detachable from the receptacle, allowing it to be removed after the drying operation is complete. This enables the heating/drying function to be applied only when needed, without requiring the entire receptacle system to be heated or cooled, thus eliminating the cooling time penalty
3Reliability
If the drying module is permanently attached to the sleeve, then the drying function is always available, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drying module is designed with detachable attachment members that allow it to be connected to or disconnected from the receptacle sleeve as needed. This dynamic configuration enables the system to transition between a simple storage state and a functional drying state, maintaining reliability when needed while reducing complexity during normal storage
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution significantly reduces the time between filling operations by preventing ice accumulation, minimizing the risk of leaks, and optimizing the heating and drying process for cryogenic couplings.
Implementation Method 1
the drying module comprising a circulation channel for circulating a flow of drying gas
Implementation Method 2
the drying module comprises a heating member, for example a resistor
Implementation Method 3
the tubular sleeve is thermally insulated, for example with a double-wall structure that is vacuum insulated between the walls
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a receptacle for receiving a cryogenic coupling for filling between two uses, the receptacle comprising a tubular sleeve which has an inlet and a bottom and delimits a tubular housing configured to accommodate a coupling of cylindrical overall shape, characterized in that the tubular sleeve is thermally insulated, and in that the bottom is situated above the inlet thereof in a use configuration such that the terminal end of the coupling is held there oriented upwards in a position stowed in the receptacle.