Cryogenic Coupling Nozzle Venting for Low-Force Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in the difficulty of coupling cryogenic fluid nozzles to receptacles due to residual gas pressure, which makes the insertion process physically difficult and requires manual force, especially after the initial filling process, as the remaining gas vents into the atmosphere and pressurizes the receptacle.
Innovation Solution
The development of a coupling nozzle with a low-force locking mechanism, a thermally isolated hose, and a venting system that vents trapped liquid back to the source tank, reducing pressure and facilitating easy nozzle disconnection, along with an automated filling process that includes a cleaning mechanism and proximity sensors for safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional nozzle coupling system is used for cryogenic fluid transfer, then the filling process can be completed, but residual gas pressure makes nozzle disconnection difficult and requires excessive manual force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the venting function from the traditional nozzle system by incorporating a dedicated vent port and vent valve that separates the pressure relief function from the fluid transfer function. This allows residual pressure to be safely discharged through the vent port while the coupling mechanism remains intact, enabling easy nozzle disconnection without excessive force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic pressure equalization system where the vent valve can be opened to equalize pressure between the nozzle and receptacle before disconnection. This dynamic adjustment of pressure conditions eliminates the static high-pressure barrier that would otherwise require excessive manual force to overcome during nozzle removal.
2Reliability
If manual force is applied to overcome residual pressure during nozzle disconnection, then the nozzle can be removed, but the process becomes physically difficult and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by automatically equalizing pressure and venting residual gas before the nozzle disconnection step. The system performs pressure equalization and venting operations in advance, ensuring that when the nozzle needs to be removed, no excessive force is required and the operation is safe for operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary venting system that mediates between the pressurized fluid system and the external environment. The vent port and vent valve act as intermediaries to safely discharge residual pressure, preventing direct forceful removal of the nozzle and enabling safe, easy disconnection.
3Reliability
If a simple nozzle-receptacle connection is used, then the system is easy to manufacture, but it cannot handle the pressure equalization and venting requirements for safe cryogenic fluid transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the nozzle system into distinct functional components: a coupling mechanism for connection, a vent port for pressure relief, and a vent valve for controlled venting. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability for pressure control during cryogenic fluid transfer.
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
Enables a secure, automated, and safe filling process for cryogenic fluids with minimal operator training, reducing the physical effort required for nozzle insertion and ensuring easy disconnection without residual pressure issues.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded plug configured to automatically close and seal the vent port
Implementation Method 2
a portion of LNG and/or LNG may heat up and vaporize into gas
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for a coupling nozzle for cryogenic fluid. An example nozzle includes a flow body defining a conduit. The flow body is configured to permit cryogenic fluid to flow through the conduit. The nozzle includes a mounting ring through which the flow body slidably extends and a bushing fixedly positioned adjacent the mounting ring. The bushing slidably receives the flow body in a keyed manner to prevent rotation of the flow body. The nozzle includes a flow control assembly at least partially disposed in the conduit of the flow body. The flow control assembly is configured to permit the cryogenic fluid to flow through the flow body in an open position and prevent the cryogenic fluid from flowing through the flow body in a closed position.