BRPI0621451A2 - portable compressor and pneumatic power supply systems and their methods - Google Patents

Abstract

PORTABLE PNEUMATIC ENERGY SUPPLY AND COMPRESSOR SYSTEMS AND THEIR METHODS. The present invention relates to portable pneumatically operable tool systems and compressors to provide pneumatic power. In at least one modality, compressors capable of producing clean, dry compressed air / gas (for example, either in naturally occurring nitrogen / atmospheric oxygen ratios or as purified nitrogen or in alternative ratios between them) that employ atmospheric air as a material for use in portable pneumatic tool systems. In some additional embodiments, the methods compress and / or purify atmospheric air and its use in portable pneumatic tool systems.

Description

Report of the Invention Patent for "PORTABLE PNEUMATIC COMPRESSOR AND SUPPLY SYSTEMS AND THEIR METHODS".

Related Order Data

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 780,236, entitled GAS BUYER and co-invented therewith, and incorporates such application in its entirety by reference. U.S. Patent No. 6,932,128 entitled APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR USING The co-invented Llagtwight Light Air / Gas Power Support is further incorporated in its entirety by reference. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to portable pneumatic power supply systems and compressors for providing pneumatic energy to them. In at least one embodiment, this invention relates to compressors capable of producing clean, dry compressed air / gas (for example, either in naturally occurring nitrogen / atmospheric oxygen ratios or as purified nitrogen or in alternate reasons among these) that employ atmospheric air as a starting material for use by portable pneumatic power supply systems (for example to drive pneumatically operable tools). In certain further embodiments, this invention relates to methods for compressing and / or purifying atmospheric air and / or its use in portable pneumatic and / or tool power supply systems.

Background of the Invention

A wide variety of tool types and the like have been developed over the centuries to cater for numerous construction and fabrication techniques that have been developed during the technological progress of civilization to modern times. For example, in a single industry, such as the construction industry, an undetermined number of different tool types can be used at a single construction site. In particular, the number of these types of tools that are used has increased due to the various specialties and subspecialties of carpentry and other construction techniques that continue to develop as modern constructions become more complex.

During the modern evolution of tools, many attempts have been made to automate tool operation, particularly to improve service efficiencies by improving tool operating speeds and reducing tool operator fatigue. Recently, such attempts at automation were typically involved in the development or innovation of compressor-driven pneumatic tools or electrically driven tools. In this respect, due to its improved efficiencies, the use of automatic tools has become so commonplace that one would have to be having a very difficult time not having a pneumatic staple gun or an electrically powered drill on a machine. typical workplace in the area of construction. However, conventional pneumatically or electrically operable tools suffer from several disadvantages or defects.

For example, pneumatically or electrically powered tools that are directly connected to a compressor via a hose or to an electrical outlet via a power cable are limited in their portability or mobility due to attachment to their respective power sources (for example, their portability is limited to the length of the hose or cable and / or these may be difficult or dangerous to carry on a ladder, for example). In addition, the longer the cable or hose, the greater the total weight as well as the chance that such a hose or cable will become tangled or otherwise act as a safety hazard (for example, a risk of light intensity). . Although battery-operated tools have some of these disadvantages, such tools are hampered by their own defects such as increased weight and dependence on a battery's finite charge (and, after battery depletion, a person could wait for the battery to recharge. or have additional batteries available, for example).

The present inventor has addressed the problems and disadvantages mentioned above in U.S. Patent No. 6,932,128 entitled APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR USING A LIGHTWEIGHT PORTABLE ALR / GAS POWER SUPPLY. The present invention is further intended to improve the apparatus and methods described herein.

In addition to the problems mentioned above with respect to the portability and mobility of pneumatic tools as discussed above, such reliance on tools for the use of conventional air compressors that provide pneumatic air "energy" further unites their drawbacks. In this regard, known compressors are generally large and heavy and have other related disadvantages. More specifically, known air compressors are very large and difficult to use safely in many work environments (eg roof top in a construction project). In addition, known compressors are noisy, complicated in mechanical structure and / or expensive to maintain or manufacture, or cannot safely pressurize air / gas above certain old limits (meters per square centimeter (psi)). Known compressor types use fossil fuels to drive, require the use of oil (for lubrication), and / or employ disposable filters.In this respect, such known air / gas compressor types are environmentally unfavorable as these produce significant pollution as they rely on limited natural fuel resources.

Due to the above description, it is clear that there is a need in the art for methods and / or apparatus and / or systems that overcome or at least mitigate one or more of the above or other disadvantages. It is a purpose of this invention to satisfy this need as well as other needs in the art which will become apparent to those skilled in the art once given the above description.

Summary of the Invention

This invention generally meets the needs described above in the art by providing a portable and lightweight system for generating compressed air / gas energy and / or for storing such portable air / gas energy for use. in the operation of portable pneumatic tool.

In at least one embodiment, this invention provides: a system for manufacturing and supplying compressed air / gas to a portable pneumatic power supply system comprising:

(a) a compressor comprising:

an engine operably connected to a steering wheel and capable of turning the steering wheel;

a linearly actuated pump having a first end and a second end, the first end pivotally connected to the flywheel at a pump support location and the second end pivotally connected to a frame element, wherein the pump includes a piston that is linearly actuated when the handwheel is turned;

a counterweight connected to the steering wheel at a location over the steering wheel generally opposite the pump support location, the counterweight being located such that when the steering wheel is turned, the counterweight imparts momentum to the steering wheel;

the linearly actuated pump includes an air / gas pump inlet capable of receiving air / gas at atmospheric pressure and an air / gas pump outlet capable of emitting air / gas which is pressurized by the linearly actuated pump when the piston is linearly actuated; and

(b) a portable pneumatic power supply system comprising:

a portable air / gas tank;

a pressure regulator in air / gas flow communication with the portable air / gas reservoir, the pressure regulator includes an air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism capable of adjusting the pressure flow air / gas thereof;

a power supply air / gas outlet including a coupling mechanism for connecting the power supply air / gas outlet to a pneumatically operable tool; and

wherein the air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism is capable of operating to distribute a plurality of selected air / gas pressures corresponding to pressures useful for operating a plurality of pneumatic tools; and

wherein the compressor is capable of manufacturing compressed air / gas to fill the portable air / gas reservoir with compressed air / gas; and

wherein the air / gas pump outlet is selectively a pluggable and disconnectable gas flow from that of the portable pneumatic power supply system to fill the portable air / gas air reservoir with compressed air / gas.

In an alternative embodiment, this invention provides:

a system for manufacturing and supplying compressed air / gas to a portable pneumatic power supply system comprising:

(a) a compressor comprising:

an engine operably connected to a steering wheel and capable of turning the steering wheel; a linearly actuated pump having a first end and a second end, with the first end pivotally connected to the flywheel at a pump support location and the second end pivotally connected to a frame member, the pump includes a piston that is linearly actuated when the steering wheel is turned;

a counterweight connected to the flywheel at a location over the flywheel generally opposite the pump support location, the counterweight being located so that when the flywheel is turned, the counterweight gives momentum to the flywheel;

the linearly actuated pump includes an air / gas pump inlet capable of receiving air / gas at atmospheric pressure and an air / gas pump outlet for air / gas which is pressurized by the linearly actuated pump when the piston is linearly actuated; and

(b) a portable pneumatic power supply system comprising:

a portable air / gas tank containing compressed air / gas at an initial high pressure; a pressure regulator in air / gas flow communication with the portable air / gas reservoir, the pressure regulator includes an air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism capable of adjusting the pressure flow air / gas thereof, wherein the pressure regulator is connected to the portable air / gas reservoir so that compressed air / gas exiting the portable air / gas reservoir is released to the pressure regulator;

a connected interconnect providing air / gas flow communication between the pressure regulator and an air / gas outlet, the interconnect comprising a flexible conduit and the air / gas outlet comprising a quick coupler connection-disconnection fixed near one end of the flexible duct;

wherein the air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism is capable of operating to distribute a plurality of selected air / gas pressures corresponding to pressures useful for a plurality of pneumatic end uses;

wherein the pressure regulator is capable of receiving said compressed air / gas and subsequently releasing said air / gas to said interconnect at a reduced pressure relative to said high initial pressure contained in said portable air / gas reservoir. ; and

wherein said pressure regulator is a dual stage regulator and said air / gas flow outlet pressure is regulated by said pressure regulator in a dual stage regulation comprising: receiving air / gas flow at said high initial pressure; reducing said high initial pressure of said air / gas flow to an intermediate pressure in a first stage;

reducing said intermediate pressure of said air / gas flow to a working pressure in a second stage, said working pressure being selected within a range of pressures suitable for operating a plurality of pneumatically operable tools; and

wherein said compressor is capable of manufacturing compressed air / gas to fill the portable air / gas reservoir with compressed air / gas; and

wherein said air / gas pump outlet is selectively a pluggable and disconnectable gas flow to and from the portable pneumatic power supply system to fill said portable air / gas reservoir with compressed air / gas.

In some embodiments, the linearly actuated pump comprises a housing housing and a linearly extensible retractable piston, the piston being linearly translatable to effect air / gas pressurization.

In some additional embodiments, the flywheel that is employed during operation has a direction of rotation that induces alternative piston thrust and compression strokes and where the counterweight is connected to the flywheel at such a generally opposite location. so that when the flywheel is rotating to induce the piston thrust course, the counterweight is located so that gravity acts on the counterweight in a direction that is generally co-directional with the steering wheel rotational direction; and

When the flywheel is rotating to induce a piston pull stroke, the counterweight is located so that gravity acts on the counterweight in a direction that is generally opposite to the flywheel rotational direction.

In some preferred embodiments, during the impulse stroke

From the piston, the counterweight assists in completing the thrust stroke and during the piston's pull stroke, the counterweight gives the thrust to complete the pull stroke.

In still further preferred embodiments, the counterweight position and location causes counterweight during steering directional movement to alternatively assist and resist piston thrust and stroke to achieve a generally constant rotational speed. flywheel during compressor operation.

In some embodiments, the system is provided with a linearly actuated pump that includes a refrigerant path through which a refrigerant may be transmitted to regulate the temperature of the linearly actuated pump during operation. In at least one such embodiment, the refrigerant path is a fluid passageway located within the shell housing in proximity to the linearly extensible and retractable piston. In at least one preferred embodiment, the system further includes a refrigerant reservoir in fluid communication with the refrigerant path and a refrigerant pump for transmitting refrigerant from the refrigerant reservoir and through the refrigerant path.

In at least one embodiment, an objective is to provide a system for driving pneumatic tools that has a light and / or compact configuration and / or that has an adjustable outlet pressure (for example, so that a wide variety of types of tools can be operated).

In at least one preferred embodiment, there is provided a system for driving pneumatic tools that is capable of providing continuously varying outlet pressures (for example, so that outlet pressures can be optimized for specific tool types).

In some preferred embodiments, the outlet pressures may be manually adjusted between very low and very high pressures, for example between 3.47 kPa and 41.36 MPa (5 psi and 6000 psi).

In at least one embodiment, there is provided a system that is capable of portable actuation of air keys, thumbtacks, micro-pin fasteners, stud fasteners, roof fasteners, support pins, inflation devices (e.g. inflation), drills, and / or screwdrivers. In at least one such embodiment, such a system is provided with a connector that is universally and functionally connectable to all or at least a plurality of tool types.

In at least one embodiment, the objective is to provide a compact and / or lightweight and / or portable and / or mechanically non-complex compressor capable of air / gas pressure. In a preferred embodiment of such a compressor, such a compressor is capable of filling an air storage reservoir with selected pressures between 0 and 34.47 MPa (0 and 5000 psi). In an alternative preferred embodiment, such a compressor is capable of filling an air storage reservoir with pressures selected from 0 to 68.94 MPa (0 to 10,000 psi) or greater.

In at least one preferred embodiment, the tooling and / or compressor systems described herein are capable of increasing service productivity and / or reducing labor costs.

This invention will now be described with respect to certain embodiments thereof as illustrated in the following drawings, in which:

In the Drawings

Figure 1 is a three-dimensional perspective view of one embodiment of a system for manufacturing and supplying compressed air / gas to a portable pneumatic power supply system in accordance with the invention in question.

Figure 2 is a three-dimensional perspective view of one embodiment of a portable pneumatic power supply system according to the present invention.

Figure 3 is a three-dimensional perspective view of one embodiment of a compressor according to the present invention.

Figure 4 is an alternative three-dimensional perspective view of a compressor embodiment illustrated in Figure 1.

Figure 5 is a two-dimensional diagrammatic view of one embodiment of a compressor according to the present invention.

Fig. 6 is an alternative two-dimensional diagrammatic view of the compressor embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3.

Figure 7 is a three-dimensional perspective view of one embodiment of a compressor according to the present invention shown housed in a stand-alone portable compartment and with a separate air / gas container to be filled by the compressor.

Figure 8 is a three-dimensional perspective view of one embodiment of a compressor according to the present invention shown housed in a stand-alone portable wheeled cart. Figure 9 is a two-dimensional diagrammatic view of one embodiment of a filtration system according to the present invention useful in conjunction with the compressors described herein.

Detailed Description of Certain Modalities

Definitions

Fluid: The term "fluid" as used herein in the specification and claims is intended to maintain its acceptable technique and / or scientific definition. In this respect, the term "fluid" includes gases within its scope (other than liquids) and therefore a component described in fluid communication (or fluid connection) is in some cases flow communication. (or in gas flow connection).

Air / Gas: The term "air / gas" as used herein in the specification and claims as a fluid in a gaseous state that has no independent shape or volume. As non-limiting examples, the term "air / gas" includes within its scope atmospheric air, purified atmospheric air, purified nitrogen, various ratios of nitrogen and oxygen mixtures and other such gaseous state fluids not specifically described elsewhere. way here.

For a more complete understanding of the present invention and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description of various illustrative and non-limiting embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which similar numerical references indicate similar characteristics.

Referring now initially to Figures 1 to 2, an exemplary mode of the compressor and pneumatic power supply system according to the invention is illustrated therein. In general, the pneumatic power supply system 1 (more clearly illustrated in Figure 2) comprises a container 3 for storing pressurized air / gas, a regulator 5 for releasing usable air / gas to an air / gas outlet ( for operating or drive tools), and an outlet air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism 7 to allow system operators to manually select the desired outlet pressures (for example, to adapt outlet pressures to specific tool types that require different operating pressures). Also shown in such figure is a flexible conduit or interconnect (hereinafter, "conduit") 9 for connecting or transmitting compressed air / gas energy from power supply regulator 5 to a tool pneumatically operable (eg via a quick connect / disconnect coupler 11) as shown (or for other end use such as for inflating a tire, for example).

More specifically, container 3 is a high pressure air / gas reservoir that is configured to contain or store pressurized air / gas at pressures typically ranging from approximately zero to 420 kgf / cm2 (zero to 6000 pounds per square inch). or "psi") (larger containers are certainly contemplated, however). Attached to the opening in the neck of the container 3 is a uniquely designed regulator 5 (for example, attached to the container or bottle by snapping threads). Regulator 5 is provided to accept the initial high air / gas pressure from container 3 and release it in comparatively weak service or outlet air / gas pressure (e.g., typically between 0 and 0.86 MPa (0 and Although the pressure reduction for a working air / gas pressure may occur at a single stage, in some embodiments, regulator 5 is constructed as a dual stage regulator. In a first stage, the regulator converts the initial high pressure of air / gas stored in container 3 to an intermediate pressure in a first stage and, in a second stage, converts or releases the air / gas to an additional pressure. or service pressure in a second stage (for example, the operating pressure that is selected within a range of pressures suitable for operating a plurality of pneumatic tools.) In preferred embodiments, when employing a regulator of a single or double stage type, an outlet pressure adjusting mechanism 7 is provided for adjusting the outlet air / gas pressure to a pressure that is usable by the particular tool type to be used. For example, in at least one embodiment, the adjusting mechanism 7 comprises a manually operated dial (e.g., displaying visual output pressure indices) that can be rotated or dialed to release an outlet air / gas pressure. specific target (eg 0.86 MPa (125 psi) for a pneumatic staple gun, or larger psi's for an impact wrench or other more demanding tools). Furthermore, in certain preferred embodiments, the regulator 5 includes a filler port 15 through which the air / gas container 3 may be refilled / filled with pressurized air / gas.

To facilitate the convenient or ergonomic transmission of service gas pressures from the pneumatic power supply system 1 for pneumatic tools, a flexible conduit 9 comprising a length of high pressure tubing is provided. In preferred embodiments, such conduit 9 includes connectors at their opposite ends for connecting to the air / gas outlet port 13 (of regulator 5) and a pneumatic tool or other device at its opposite end, respectively. In preferred embodiments, at least one conduit connector 9 is a universal fitting or quick connect / disconnect type that is connectable to a wide range of pneumatic tool types. Alternatively, proprietary connector types may be employed as such connector types are developed or become well known and used as the use of the system described herein becomes more prolific.

Although various mechanisms and / or methods for carrying out or transporting system 1 are contemplated, in certain exemplary embodiments, the air / gas supply container 3 is driven by overlapping back or hip systems (e.g., shoulder-carried). straps or attached to a belt). Such mechanisms or methods should not, of course, be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in question.

Returning to Figures 3 and 4, an exemplary embodiment of a unique portable air / gas compressor according to the invention in question is shown as compressor 101. In that aspect, as illustrated, compressor 101 generally comprises a structure. 103 housing a motor 105 and drive assembly 107 operating a piston driven pump 113 to compress the air drawn into the compressor system (e.g. from the surrounding atmosphere). More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the engine 105, when operated, drives a small pulley 109 (e.g., approximately 5.08 cm (2 inches in diameter) which successively drives the flywheel 111 (e.g., 25.4 cm (10 inches in diameter) which is connected to the pulley 109 by a drive belt 115. In addition, as illustrated in the figure, the linearly actuated pump 113 is connected at its first end via a conventional pivot type, to an axle 117 extending from a steering wheel side surface 111 located at a selected distance from the center or axis of rotation of the steering wheel (for example, here when a 25.4 cm steering wheel is employed). (10 inches) in diameter, shaft 117 is located approximately 7.62 cm (3.0 inches) from its axis / center.) At its second end, pump 113 is connected, also via a pivot (or swing-type) connection to the support element 1 19 (e.g. fixedly to frame 103). Mounted as such, as flywheel 111 is rotationally driven (by operating motor 105 which drives drive assembly 107), pump piston 121 of pump 113 is induced to alternate between thrust and compression strokes generally. to perform air pressurization (ie, in a compression chamber on pump 113, not shown). More specifically, in a "pull stroke", piston 121 is removed from housing housing 123 (of pump 113) whereby air is drawn into the pump compression cavity (for example, in air / gas inlet 125 ). Conversely, in a "thrust stroke", piston 121 is actuated in housing housing 123 whereby air is pressurized in the compression cavity and then exhaled through air / gas outlet 127 (e.g., for subsequent transmission to a filtration system).

Although the embodiment described above employs driving the instructed belt around a pair of unequally sized "pulleys" (ie including flywheel 111) as a pump "propellant" (the size relationship). thus approximately at a ratio of 1: 5 so that pump 113, at full operating speed, operates at or within its approximate optimized parameters, ie at or below 1350 to 1400 pump cycles. per minute, and preferably at or below 1380 to 1385 pump cycles per minute), alternative embodiments in which pump 113 is driven differently or alternatively are naturally contemplated. In a predicted embodiment, the motor 105 directly drives the flywheel 111 without a separate pulley or belt drive that is employed. In particular, such an arrangement is simpler in construction and reduces the total number of service parts (however, due to the potential lost mechanical advantage, it may be necessary to employ a larger or more robust motor or a different type of pump). .

Through diligent experimentation with various iterations of the compressor system described above, in addition to developing an exclusively compact, portable compressor that utilizes simple construction and few mechanical parts, the Applicant has found that particularly advantageous compressor performance can be achieved by using one or more structural variations of a hitherto unknown steering wheel structure employing a specifically located and / or sized counterweight. In that aspect, in preferred embodiments of the invention in question, a flywheel utilizing such a counterweight 129 is employed on the inventive compressors (s) in question.

Specifically, as can be more clearly seen from Figures 5 and 6, in such preferred (albeit optional) embodiments, a counterweight 129 (shown in "dashed" or dotted lines) is integrated into flywheel 111, such as by casting, casting, machining, or other conventional modeling methods or mechanisms (alternatively, counterweight 129 may be attached to flywheel 111 as a separately manufactured part). More particularly, in the most effective embodiments, the counterweight 129 (e.g., a 0.288 kg (10.3 ounce) counterweight as illustrated, or, more generally, a counterweight of between about 0.168 and 0.448 kg (6 and 16 ounces) or approximately 10 to 20% of the flywheel mass) is located directly opposite the pump's flywheel support location 113, ie opposite axis 117 on the other or opposite side of the flywheel "a" rotation axis .

Even more specifically, the counterweight 129 is located as described so as to provide a counterbalance with the force or resistance transmitted by the pump 113 over the flywheel as the thrust and compression strokes of the pump 113 are effected by the directional rotation of the flywheel (although in contrast, counterweight 129 partly imparts the flywheel to stimulate its rotation against the resistance of a piston stroke 121 on pump 113). In this regard, during a piston thrust stroke 121, as the piston is actuated in the compression cavity to compress air / gas, the compressed air / gas resistance prevents the piston stroke and thus steering wheel rotation 111 (thus tending to reduce steering wheel speed). Conversely, during the piston stroke 121, the lack of resistance related to air compression results in a piston stroke that is relatively unimpeded. As a result, as compared during the thrust stroke, the rotation speed of the flywheel 111 tends to increase. However, alternating rotational speed changes are generally not desired and contribute to rapid part wear and mechanical breakdown and thus limit the upper operating speed of the pump (and thus the upper limit pressurization capabilities of the compressor). .

Therefore, by locating counterweight 129 as shown in Figures 5 and 6 (for example, with respect to pump mounting location 113), during the thrust stroke, counterweight 129 is located so that gravity acts on the counterweight in a direction that is generally co-directional with the direction of rotation of the steering wheel (ie clockwise as shown in the figure). In this way, the gravitational force on the counterweight assists in ending the thrust stroke, thereby minimizing or eliminating any reduction in rotational speed that could otherwise occur. Conversely, during a traction stroke (as illustrated in Figure 6), counterweight 129 is located so that gravity acts on the counterweight in a direction that is generally opposite to the steering wheel's direction of rotation. . In short, the position and position of the counterweight 129 makes the counterweight, while directing the steering wheel 111, to alternatively assist and resist piston thrust and stroke to achieve a speed of up to. generally constant rotation of flywheel 111 during operation of compressor 101. Thus, the aforementioned disadvantages related to mechanical reliability and / or higher operating speeds are substantially eliminated or at least mitigated. As a result, at least one prototype compressor as described herein has produced final pressures of approximately 34.47 MPa (5000 psi) (and even higher pressures, for example, above 41.37 MPa (6000 psi), or possibly still above 68.94 MPa (10,000 psi), which is expected to be achieved through further optimization and / or experimentation).

Although, as described herein, the use of a counterweight, such as 129, offers or allows for distinct and significant advantages to compressor performance or operation, alternative embodiments by which similar advantages are obtained are contemplated. For example, instead of using a flywheel counterweight 111, an increased mass flywheel as compared to a conventional flywheel could be used. Thus, the increased force obtained by using a larger mass flywheel, in theory, substantially outweighs the resistance of piston 121 as it compresses air / gas (in addition, the lack of resistance during a "stroke"). "might not be comparatively sufficient, relative to the large mass steering wheel, to give a significant increased rotational speed). In short, such a sufficiently close handwheel should not experience significant / detrimental changes in speed due to piston resistance and non-resistance 121 during the thrust and compression strokes, respectively.

In addition to the advantages described above, certain embodiments of compressor 101 employ filtration systems that comprise one or more filter types, such as for drying and / or cleaning air / gas (or, in certain embodiments employing self-styled molecular sieves, isolating one type of gas molecule from the other). Again referring now to Figures 3 to 6, and more particularly to Figure 9, one embodiment of such a filtration system is illustrated therein.

As more clearly detailed in Figure 9, filtration system 135 generally comprises a filter column constructed from a combination of a desiccant filter 137 and a coalescent filter 139. More specifically, desiccant filter 137 is in fluid communication. (i.e. gas flow communication) with the air / gas pump outlet 127 through a valve 144 connected to the air / gas pump outlet line 128 (e.g., conventional high pressure piping). In addition, coalescing filter 139 is physically and fluidly connected (i.e. in gas flow communication) in series with desiccant filter 137. Coalescing filter 139 is successively physically and fluidly connected to one end of the air / gas outlet line 141 which is connected at its other end to tubing 147 (including a fill port 151 for connecting to and filling / pressurizing an air / gas container 3).

In the exemplary embodiments of filtration system 135, the entire filter system is generally hermetically sealed, but allows air / gas flow through its connections to line 128 and line 141 and selectively through a through port 145 as desired. (as will be described in the following text). Thus, when compressor 101 is operated to manufacture pressurized air / gas, such air / gas flows through both desiccant filter 137 and coalescing filter 139 at generally maximum system pressures. In this way, condensation (eg water condensation) and / or particulate matter is filtered from the air / gas flowing through the filter system (eg resulting in clean, dry air / gas).

In an exemplary operation for filling an air / gas container, then a container 3 is first connected to the filling port 151 via a conventional or proprietary valve type connection (for example, to the filling port 15, see Figure 1). . Then, compressor 101 is turned on (e.g., by operating the on / off switch 131) and air / gas is drawn in and compressed as compressor 101 systems operate pump 113 as described above. As compressor 101 compresses or pressurizes the suctioned air / gas, compressed air / gas flows from pump 113 through the air / gas outlet 127. Then, in the style of the compressor employing filtration system 135 , pressurized or compressed air / gas is first induced to flow through desiccant filter 137 which removes moisture from compressed air / gas, and then through coalescent filter 139 which removes certain particulate types.

In certain particularly preferred embodiments, compressor 101 further includes an auto-off switch (not shown) which functions to stop compressor 101 upon detection of a preselected pressurization or full pressure. During the filling operation in embodiments employing such auto-shutoff features, then, as compressed air / gas fills container 3, pressure gauge 143 (see Figure 4) monitors the air / gas pressure it supplies. and automatically shuts off compressor 101 (eg by switch relay) once the desired air / gas pressure is reached (for example, it has been preselected by a compressor operator using a pressure selection switch or display not shown). Thereby, compressor 101 is capable of automatically providing desired filling pressures (e.g., corresponding to the storage and / or safety limits of particular air / gas storage containers) without requiring the pressure gauge to be monitored closely. active or constant way. Non-automated modalities, however, are certainly contemplated.

In certain preferred embodiments, after a desired fill pressure is reached, the compressor 101 is switched off both automatically as described immediately above and manually by operation of switch 131. Thereafter, before disconnecting container 3 From the fill port 151, the through port 145 (e.g. operated by a thumbscrew or similar mechanical mechanism) is opened and the residual pressurized air / gas purges from the through port and simultaneously causes the desiccant filters and Coalescents purge collected / filtered condensation and particulate matter respectively.

Still in additional alternative embodiments, it has been determined through certain further innovations and experiments, that employing a cooling system for. cooling pump 113 during compressor operation substantially improves the performance of compressors such as those described herein primarily by reducing wear rates of internal pump parts. Thus, as an optional feature in certain compressors as illustrated as preferred embodiments in Figures 3 to 6, a refrigerant system 201 is provided for cooling pump 113 during operation.

As illustrated in various views in Figures 3 to 6, the refrigerant system 201 generally includes a refrigerant reservoir 205 which stores a conventional composition liquid or gaseous refrigerant (e.g., an "antifreeze" type liquid), a pump 203 (e.g. - for example, a conventional water pump) to pump the refrigerant from the reservoir and through the refrigerant system, and a radiator 215 to remove the absorbed / adsorbed heat from the refrigerant fluid / gas before returning the refrigerant to the refrigerant reservoir 205. by a return path 213.

More specifically, and in exemplary operation of system 201 during compressor operation, as pump 203 is actuated, refrigerant (or gas) is first extracted from reservoir 205 into and through the internal conduits of pump 203 and then it flows into pump 113 through refrigerant inlet line 207. As refrigerant enters pump 113, it circulates within housing 123 along the length of a proximal piston 121 (e.g. through a conduit circumferentially surrounding the piston 121) thus absorbing / adsorbing the heat generated by the piston during operation of the pump 113. After circulation within the internal components of the pump 113, the refrigerant is then induced to exit or flow from pump 113 (by continued operation of pump 203) through refrigerant inlet line 211 therethrough is transmitted to radiator 215 (e.g. the conventional radiator). After passing through the radiator 215 where the heat "conducted" by the refrigerant is substantially removed or reduced (for example, actively or passively), the refrigerant returns to reservoir 205 through the refrigerant return path 213 ( eg for recirculation through the refrigerant system). Alternative methods and mechanisms for cooling the refrigerant pump 113 during operation are of course provided for.

Compressor 101 is believed to be particularly advantageous when used in combination with portable pneumatic power systems as described herein (or as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,932,128), that is, when used with In such described systems, the combined energy / compressor supply system surpasses the conventional direct compressor driven pneumatic tooling systems known in the art. However, compressor 101 is capable of producing clean, dry compressed air / gas for many other end uses. In addition, compressors such as those described herein exhibit significant performance improvements over known compressors. In this respect, compressor 101 is capable of filling large air / gas supply containers with high air / gas pressures, all of which have a compact and simple structural design hitherto unknown. In particular, the compact and lightweight structure of compressor 101 allows it to be exclusively portable to a compressor with such high performance compression capabilities. In addition, certain types of compressor 101 with respect to known compressors have a rather simple structural design. In that regard, in preferred embodiments, compressor 101 which uses a single drive belt 115 to reduce maintenance and extend longevity, does not require oil change and disposal, does not require gas, oil, or filters, and / or It usually does not use parts that are vulnerable to rust or degradation. Certain additional embodiments (alternatively, or in combination with the immediate and previously described enhancements), have low operating noise levels (typically about 55 dBA or less), are virtually maintenance free, operate on power sources. Standard electrical / power sources (eg 110 volt electrical power) do not emit toxic vapors or burnt gas, and / or are self-cleaning (eg moisture and dust particles are purged from the system at the end of each use). , as described above).

Once the above description is determined, the non-limiting description, many other features, modifications, and enhancements will become obvious to those skilled in the art. Such other features, modifications and improvements are therefore considered part of this invention, the scope of which will be determined by the following claims:

Claims (31)

1. A system for manufacturing and supplying compressed air / gas to a portable pneumatic power supply system comprising: (a) a compressor comprising: an engine operably connected to a flywheel and capable of rotating the flywheel; a linearly actuated pump having a first end and a second end, said first end is pivotally connected to the flywheel at a pump support location and said second end is pivotally connected to a control element. said pump comprising a piston which is linearly actuated when the handwheel is rotated; a counterweight connected to said flywheel at a location above said flywheel generally opposite said pump support location, said counterweight being located such that when the flywheel is rotated, said counterweight imparts said flywheel; said linearly actuated pump includes an air / gas pump inlet capable of receiving air / gas at atmospheric pressure and an air / gas pump outlet capable of emitting air / gas which is pressurized by the linearly actuated pump when said piston is linearly actuated; and (b) a portable pneumatic power supply system comprising: a portable air / gas reservoir; a pressure regulator in air / gas flow communication with said portable air / gas reservoir, said pressure regulator including an air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism capable of adjusting the flow pressure of air / gas thereof; a power supply air / gas outlet including a coupling mechanism for connecting said power supply air / gas outlet to a pneumatically operable tool; and wherein said air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism is capable of operating to distribute a plurality of selected air / gas pressures corresponding to pressures useful for operating a plurality of pneumatic tools; and wherein the compressor is capable of manufacturing compressed air / gas to fill said portable air / gas reservoir with compressed air / gas; and wherein said air / gas pump outlet is selectively a pluggable and disconnectable gas flow to and from the portable pneumatic power supply system for filling said portable air / gas air reservoir with compressed air / gas. The system of claim 1, wherein said portable air / gas reservoir contains compressed air / gas at an initial high pressure, wherein said pressure regulator is connected to said portable air / gas reservoir. so that the compressed air / gas leaving said portable air / gas reservoir is distributed to said pressure regulator and wherein said pressure regulator is capable of receiving said compressed air / gas and then distributing it. said air / gas for said interconnection at a reduced pressure relative to said high initial pressure contained in said portable air / gas reservoir. The system of claim 2, wherein said air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism is capable of adjusting said air / gas flow outlet pressure substantially in continuously varying increments between at least one pressure. intermediate output pressure and a substantially zero output pressure. The system of claim 2, wherein said air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism is capable of performing air / gas flow outlet pressure regulation of said pressure regulator; said air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism is selectively capable of adjusting said air / gas flow outlet pressure substantially within a continuously variable range between said high initial pressure contained in said air / gas reservoir. and a substantially zero outlet pressure. The system of claim 3, further including a connected interconnect and providing air / gas flow communication between said pressure regulator and an air / gas outlet of the power supply wherein said air / gas flow outlet pressure during system operation is released to said interconnect for distribution for final pneumatic use. The system of claim 5, wherein said interconnection comprises a flexible conduit, said flexible conduit having a quick connect-disconnect coupler attached to one end thereof capable of connecting and disconnecting to a flexible conduit. pneumatically operable device. The system of claim 6, wherein said pressure regulator is constructed such that said air / gas flow outlet pressure is regulated by said pressure regulator in a single regulating step. stage comprising: receiving the air / gas flow at said high initial pressure and then distributing said air / gas flow at reduced pressures relative to said high initial pressure, said reduced pressures being selectable within a range. air / gas pressure to operate a multitude of pneumatic tools. The system of claim 6, wherein said pressure regulator is a dual stage regulator and said air / gas flow outlet pressure is regulated by said pressure regulator in a pressure regulator. a dual stage comprising: receiving air / gas flow at said high initial pressure; reducing said high initial pressure of said air / gas flow to an intermediate pressure in a first stage; reducing said intermediate pressure of said air / gas flow to a working pressure in a second stage, said working pressure being selected within a range of pressures suitable for operating a plurality of pneumatic tools. The system of claim 8, wherein said service pressure is selected from approximately a value greater than 0 to a value equal to or less than 3.45 MPa (500 psi). The system of claim 7 or 8 further comprising: a plurality of pneumatically operable tools having universal connectors; and wherein said quick-disconnect coupler of said conduit is capable of selectively being connected alternately to said plurality of pneumatically operable tools so that, when connected, said tools are in communication. air / gas flow with said pressure regulator through said conduit. The system of claim 10, wherein said system is configured such that it is capable of providing workable outlet pressure to operate a plurality of pneumatic tools, including at least: a staple gun, a wrench air, a paint sprayer, an inflator, a stapler, a micropine clip, blackhead clip, and a drill. The system of claim 7 or 8, wherein said pressure regulator further includes an air / gas flow inlet which is constructed such that it is capable of being communicably connected to said compressor such that said high pressure compressor can reset the gas pressure in said portable gas reservoir. The system of claim 1, wherein said portable air / gas tank has an established pressure of at least -20.68 MPa (3000 psi) and weighs less than approximately 4.54 kg (10 liters). - bras). The system of claim 1, wherein said portable air / gas reservoir has an established pressure of at least -34.47 MPa (5000 psi) and weighs less than 22.7 kg (50 pounds). . The system of claim 2, wherein said portable air / gas reservoir is configured to be attached to a garment type belt. A system according to claim 2, wherein said portable air / gas reservoir is configured to be attached to a rear garment type harness. The system of claim 8, wherein said intermediate pressure is selected from approximately 5.52 to 31.03 MPa (800 to 4500 psi) and said working pressure is less than or equal to approximately 3, 45 MPa (500 psi). A system for manufacturing and supplying compressed air / gas to a portable pneumatic power supply system comprising: a) a compressor comprising: an engine operably connected to a flywheel and capable of rotating said flywheel; a linearly actuated pump having a first end and a second end, said first end is pivotally connected to said handwheel at a pump support location and said second end is pivotally connected to an elbow. - structure, wherein said pump includes a piston which is linearly actuated when said handwheel is rotated; a counterweight connected to said flywheel at a location above said flywheel generally opposite said pump support location, said counterweight being located such that when the flywheel is rotated, said counterweight imparts said flywheel; said linearly actuated pump includes an air / gas pump inlet for receiving air / gas at an atmospheric pressure and an air / gas pump outlet for air / gas which is pressurized by said linearly actuated pump when said piston is linearly actuated; and b) a portable pneumatic power supply system comprising: a portable air / gas reservoir containing compressed air / gas at an initial high pressure; a pressure regulator in air / gas flow communication with said portable air / gas reservoir, said pressure regulator including an air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism capable of adjusting the flow pressure of air / gas thereof, wherein said pressure regulator is connected to said portable air / gas reservoir such that compressed air / gas exiting said portable air / gas reservoir is distributed to said pressure regulator; a connected interconnect which provides air / gas flow communication between the pressure regulator and an air / gas outlet, said interconnect comprising a flexible conduit and the air / gas outlet comprising a quick connect coupler disconnection fixed near one end of the flexible duct; wherein the air / gas pressure adjusting mechanism is capable of operating to deliver a plurality of selected air / gas pressures corresponding to pressures useful for a plurality of tire end uses; wherein said pressure regulator is capable of receiving said compressed air / gas and subsequently releasing said air / gas to said interconnect at a reduced pressure relative to said high initial pressure contained in said portable air / gas reservoir; and wherein said pressure regulator is a dual stage regulator and said air / gas flow outlet pressure is regulated by said pressure regulator in a dual stage regulation comprising: receiving air flow / gas at said high initial pressure; reducing said high initial pressure of said air / gas flow to an intermediate pressure in a first stage; reducing said intermediate pressure of said air / gas flow to a working pressure in a second stage, said working pressure being selected within a range of pressures suitable for operating a plurality of pneumatically operable tools; and wherein said compressor is capable of manufacturing compressed air / gas to fill said portable air / gas reservoir with compressed air / gas; and wherein said air / gas pump outlet is selectively a pluggable and disconnectable gas flow to and from the portable pneumatic power supply system to fill said portable air / gas reservoir with compressed air / gas. The system of claim 19, wherein said working pressure is selected from approximately a value greater than 0 to a value equal to or less than 3.45 MPa (500 psi). The system of claim 19 further comprising: a plurality of pneumatically operable tools having universal connectors; and wherein said quick-disconnect coupler of said conduit is capable of selectively being connected alternately to said plurality of pneumatically operable tools so that, when connected, said tools are in communication. air / gas flow with said pressure regulator through said conduit. The system of claim 20, wherein said system is configured such that it is capable of providing workable outlet pressure for operating a plurality of pneumatic tools, including at least: a staple gun, a wrench air, an ink sprayer, an inflator, a stapler, a micro-pin clamp, a blackhead clamp, and a drill. The system of claim 19, wherein said pressure regulator further includes an air / gas flow inlet which is constructed such that it is capable of being communicably connected to said compressor so that said high pressure compressor can reset the gas pressure in said portable gas reservoir. The system of claim 1 or 19, wherein said portable air / gas reservoir is constructed at least in part of a material selected from the group consisting of: steel fiber, aluminum, and carbon. The system of claim 1 or 19, wherein said linearly actuated pump comprises a housing housing and a linearly extensible retractable piston, said piston being linearly translatable to effect air / gas pressurization. . The system of claim 25, wherein during operation said handwheel has a direction of rotation that gives rise to the alternate thrust and compression strokes of said piston and wherein said counterweight is connected to the said flywheel in such a location is generally opposite to said pump support location such that when said flywheel is rotating to give a thrust stroke of said piston, said counterweight is located so that gravity acts on said pump. counterweight in a direction which is generally co-directional with said direction of rotation of said handwheel; and when said flywheel is rotating to give a pulling stroke of said piston, said counterweight is located such that gravity acts on said counterweight in a direction that is generally opposite to said direction of rotation of said flywheel. The system of claim 26, wherein further during a thrust stroke of said piston, said counterweight assists in completing said thrust stroke and during a pull stroke of said piston, said counterweight. adds resistance to effect said traction stroke. A system according to claim 27, wherein said piston and counterweight location causes said counterweight, during the directional movement of said flywheel, to assist and resist alternatively in thrust and pull strokes. of said piston to thereby effect a generally constant rotational speed of said flywheel during operation of the compressor. The system of claim 28, wherein said compressor is capable of pressurizing air to a pressure of at least about 41.36 MPa (6000 psi). The system of claim 28, wherein said linearly actuated pump includes a refrigerant path through which a refrigerant may be transmitted thereby to regulate the temperature of said linearly actuated pump during operation. The system of claim 30, wherein said refrigerant fluid path is a fluid passage located within said shell housing in proximity to said linearly extensible and retractable piston. The system of claim 31 further comprising a refrigerant reservoir in fluid communication with said refrigerant fluid path and a refrigerant pump for transmitting refrigerant from said refrigerant reservoir and through said refrigerant path. refrigerant fluid.