EP2219992A2 - Spout with flow valve for a jerry-can - Google Patents

Spout with flow valve for a jerry-can

Info

Publication number
EP2219992A2
EP2219992A2 EP08718649A EP08718649A EP2219992A2 EP 2219992 A2 EP2219992 A2 EP 2219992A2 EP 08718649 A EP08718649 A EP 08718649A EP 08718649 A EP08718649 A EP 08718649A EP 2219992 A2 EP2219992 A2 EP 2219992A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
flow control
control device
conduit
liquid
container
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP08718649A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Richard Warrington George
James Christopher Warrington George
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Easy Fill Ltd
Original Assignee
Easy Fill Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Easy Fill Ltd filed Critical Easy Fill Ltd
Publication of EP2219992A2 publication Critical patent/EP2219992A2/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D7/00—Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes
    • B67D7/06—Details or accessories
    • B67D7/36—Arrangements of flow- or pressure-control valves
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D7/00—Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes
    • B67D7/005—Spouts

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a flow control device for dispensing liquid from a liquid-tightly sealable container.
  • this flow control device will only operate in conjunction with a container which is not liquid-tightly sealable.
  • the container on which the flow control device is provided must have a secondary opening which is separate of the flow control device for the passage of air into and out of the container.
  • a typical example of such a container is a watering can, which is not liquid-tightly sealable and which has a nozzle and a separate filling opening.
  • the present invention seeks to provide a solution to these problems.
  • a flow control device for dispensing liquid from a liquid-tightly sealable container into a second container to a predetermined level, the device comprising : a first conduit having a first inlet end and a first outlet end; a second conduit which is independent of the first conduit and which has a second inlet end and a second outlet end; and a flow control element by which liquid is prevented or substantially prevented from exiting the first outlet end of the first conduit , the flow control element having a known operational pressure characteristic at which, on reaching a predetermined pressure differential thereacross, liquid stops passing therethrough ; the flow control element being spaced from the second inlet end of the second conduit by a distance which, in liquid, at least provides the predetermined pressure differential required to cause operation of the flow control element.
  • the flow control device further comprises a second flow control element which stops liquid passing through the second conduit.
  • the second flow control element may be independent of the first said flow control element.
  • the or each flow control element may be a check valve by which the associated conduit is liquid tightly sealable, the said check valve having the known operational pressure characteristic at which the valve closes on reaching the predetermined pressure differential thereacross.
  • the said check valve(s) may be one of a multiple cuspid valve, duckbill valve, cross-slit valve, flap valve, and an umbrella valve.
  • the or each flow control element may be a perforated element or plate.
  • the first conduit and/or the second conduit is/are elongate.
  • the first said flow control element is provided in or at the first conduit at a position which is between the second inlet end and the second outlet end.
  • the second conduit may include a float.
  • the second outlet end is closed and one or more openings are provided in a surface adjacent to the second outlet end.
  • the first and second conduits may be formed together as part of a tubular body.
  • the tubular body includes a partitioning wall which extends along the longitudinal extent and which separates the first and second conduits.
  • the flow control element is provided partway between the ends of the first conduit.
  • the flow control element may be provided at one end of the first conduit.
  • the first conduit has a uniform lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent.
  • the second conduit has a uniform lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent.
  • the first conduit has a greater lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent than the second conduit.
  • the flow control device further comprises a first container coupling which is at the first inlet end of the first conduit and which is releasably connectable to the said liquid-tightly sealable container.
  • the first container coupling may be screw- threadably connectable to the liquid-tightly sealable container.
  • the flow control device may further comprises a second container coupling which is connectable to a downstream end of the first conduit and which is releasably connectable to a fluid-tightly sealable said second container.
  • the second container coupling may be a sleeve or collar.
  • the sleeve or collar is elastic.
  • the collar or sleeve is flexible and slidable onto the flow control device and the second fluid-tightly sealable container.
  • a flow control device in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, in combination with a liquid-tightly sealable container, the first conduit providing means for liquid flow out of the sealable container, and the second conduit providing means for air flow into the sealable container.
  • the liquid-tightly sealable container is a hand-held portable container for storing liquids.
  • a method of forming a closed system for a liquid dispensing procedure comprising the steps of : a) fluid-tightly connecting one end of a flow control device in accordance with the first aspect of the invention to a first fluid-tightly sealable container; b) fluid-tightly connecting the other end of the flow control device to a second fluid-tightly sealable container using a coupling device; and c) moving the first fluid-tightly sealable container to dispense liquid therefrom to the second fluid-tightly sealable container, the dispensing of the liquid causing gas in the second fluid-tightly sealable container to pass to the first fluid-tightly sealable container through the flow control device.
  • the first fluid-tightly sealable container is a petrol can.
  • the said coupling device is a collar or a sleeve.
  • the collar or sleeve may be elastic.
  • the collar or sleeve may be flexible and slidable onto the flow control device and the second fluid-tightly sealable container.
  • Figure 1 shows a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a flow control device, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention and liquid-tightly connected to a liquid-tightly sealable container
  • Figure 2 shows a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the flow control device fluid- tigh ⁇ y connected to a second fluid-tightly sealable container
  • Figure 3 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a flow control device, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention and shown removed from the container;
  • Figure 4 shows a plan view of a different flow control element of a fourth embodiment of a flow control device, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.
  • a flow control device 10 which comprises an elongate liquid-flow passage or conduit 12, an elongate air-flow passage or conduit 14 which is independent of the liquid-flow conduit 12, and a one-way check valve 16.
  • 'elongate' is intended to mean having more length than width or, in other words, a greater longitudinal extent than a lateral extent.
  • the flow control device is preferably a dispensing nozzle for a container.
  • the flow control device can be provided as part of the container instead of being in the form of a nozzle.
  • the flow control device can be provided in an dispensing opening of the container.
  • the liquid-flow conduit 12 and the air-flow conduit 14 are formed together, typically, as a one-piece plastics moulding, into a, typically flexible, tubular nozzle body 18.
  • the liquid-flow conduit 12 and the air-flow conduit 14 are maintained independent of each other by a shared partitioning wall 20 extending the length of the nozzle body 18 and formed integrally with the body 18.
  • the check valve 16 can be any form of one-way valve, and may have the shape of one of, for example, a multiple cuspid, a duckbill, a cross-slit, a flap, and an umbrella. Other forms of check valve 16 can also be envisaged, for example a ball- valve. Conveniently, the check valve 16 is positionable partway along the liquid-flow conduit 12 by insertion through one end. Consequently, the nozzle body 18 can be easily and cheaply formed as a single one-piece moulding, and the check valve 16 can be inserted thereafter to provide a finished product.
  • the liquid-flow conduit 12 has a liquid-inlet end 22 and a liquid-outlet end 24 at opposite ends of the nozzle body 18. A liquid-flow path 26 is thus defined therebetween.
  • the air-flow conduit 14 has an air-inlet end 28 and an air-outlet end 30, again at opposite ends of the nozzle body 18. An air-flow path 32 is similarly defined therebetween.
  • the liquid-inlet end 22 lies adjacent to the air-outlet end 30 and typically in the same plane, and the liquid-outlet end 24 lies adjacent to the air-inlet end 28, and again typically in the same plane.
  • the nozzle body 18 is formed with a first container coupling 36, in the form of a screw- threaded fastening collar at the liquid-inlet end 22 / air-outlet end 30.
  • the nozzle body 18 includes an outwardly extending flange 38 to retain the collar 36 for free rotational movement on the nozzle body 18.
  • the screw thread is adapted to mate with a screw thread at the opening 40 of the liquid-tightly sealable container 34.
  • the check valve 16 is insertable into the nozzle body 18 from the liquid-inlet end 22 until it reaches a stop 42 formed in the liquid-flow conduit 12.
  • This direction of insertion beneficially prevents loosening of the check valve 16 during use, since liquid flow urges the check valve 16 against the stop 42.
  • the check valve 16 is oriented to be open in the direction of the liquid-inlet end 22 to the liquid-outlet end 24, and to close in the opposite direction.
  • This pressure differential is a known predefined or predetermined characteristic, typically being available from the manufacturer of the check valve 16. It is generally known that a pressure of 100 pascals (Pa) (1 millibar) is equivalent to 1 centimetre (cm) depth of water. Therefore, knowing the pressure required to close the check valve 16 allows the distance that the check valve 16 is to be spaced from the air inlet end 28 of the air flow conduit 14 to be determined. By way of example, if the pressure required to close and seal the check valve 16 is 500 Pa, then the check valve 16 must be spaced from the air inlet end 28 of the air flow conduit by at least 5 cm.
  • This distance may vary slightly, depending on the type of liquid to be dispensed through the flow control device 10. However, in general terms, equating the required pressure at which the check valve 16 closes to a corresponding depth, of water, and then positioning the check valve 16 at least this distance from the liquid-outlet end 24, has been shown to be reliable during testing with various liquids.
  • the container 34 In use and with the flow control device 10 connected to the opening 40 of a first liquid- tightly sealable container 34, the container 34 is tilted so that liquid passes only through the liquid-inlet end 22 of the liquid-flow conduit 12 of the nozzle body 18, and discharges from the liquid-outlet end 24 after passing through the check valve 16. Simultaneously and due to the pressure difference being created within the container by the discharge of the liquid, air is drawn into the interior of the container 34 only via the air-flow conduit 14.
  • the liquid is discharged into a second container, which is dependent on the liquid, but which could be, for example, a petrol tank, the flow of liquid from the sealed container 34 causes a negative pressure to be created within the container 34, this negative pressure causes air/vapour to be drawn through the air flow conduit 14 via the air inlet end 28 in to the sealed container 34 through the air outlet end 30.
  • a second container which could be, for example, a petrol tank
  • the flow of liquid from the sealed container 34 causes a negative pressure to be created within the container 34
  • this negative pressure causes air/vapour to be drawn through the air flow conduit 14 via the air inlet end 28 in to the sealed container 34 through the air outlet end 30.
  • the negative pressure As the level in the second container, rises and meets the air-inlet end 28 of the air-flow conduit 14, liquid is drawn up the air flow conduit by the negative pressure within the sealed container 34.
  • the negative pressure will increase within the sealed container 34 resulting in a pressure difference across the check valve 16.
  • the check valve 16 closes, liquid-t
  • the flow control device 10 can thus be removed from the second container, and the liquid-tightly sealable container 34 can be righted. Righting of the liquid-tightly sealable container 34 removes the pressure on the check valve 16, allowing the valve 16 to re-open and thus re-set.
  • Figure 2 shows, as a second embodiment, the inclusion of a second container coupling 44, in the form of a sleeve.
  • the sleeve 44 is preferably elastic, and may conveniently be formed from elastomeric material.
  • the sleeve 44 is intended to prevent the escape of environmentally damaging gases during dispensing.
  • one end of the sleeve 44 is drawn or slid tightly over the free downstream end of the nozzle body 18 at which the liquid-outlet end 24 the air-inlet end 28 are located.
  • the other end is coupled to an opening 46 of a second container 48 through which the dispensed liquid will flow.
  • the second container 48 is a fluid-tightly sealable container.
  • the coupling is formed by sliding the sleeve 44 over the opening 46 of the container 48 to form a tight connection.
  • a closed system is thus formed whereby, as liquid is dispensed from the first liquid-tightly sealable container 34 to the second container 48, gas or vapour is drawn through the air-flow conduit 14 from the second container 48 and into the liquid-tightly sealable container 34.
  • the sleeve 44 can be extendable. For example, it may be concertinaed or simply elastic.
  • fastening devices such as clips, ties or clamps
  • fastening devices can be used to connect the sleeve to either or both containers.
  • These fastening devices are preferably releasable.
  • the second container coupling can be a threaded collar, instead of a sleeve, which allows the nozzle body to be securely and releasably fluid-tightly attachable to the opening of the second container.
  • a second one-way check-valve 150 in the air-flow conduit 114 is provided, in order to allow air flow into the container, but to prevent the ingress of liquid.
  • the second check valve 150 is positioned at the air-outlet end 130, so as to be spaced from the first check valve 116 positioned in the liquid-flow conduit 112.
  • the check valves 116 and 150 are multi-cuspid one-way valves. However, as mentioned above, any suitable check valve can be utilised.
  • An alternative is to provide a sealed or closed end at the air-outlet end of the air-flow conduit, and to move the air-outlet opening to provide one or more vent openings in the side of the air-flow conduit, spaced a small distance from the sealed or closed end. By having the vent openings in the side of the air-flow conduit, resistance to reverse flow is promoted.
  • a further option is to provide a much shorter air-flow conduit, or in other words vent pipe, which allows liquid to flow through the check valve in the liquid flow conduit before having the opportunity to flow through the air-flow conduit.
  • the air-outlet end of the air-flow conduit would thus be adjacent to or downstream of the check valve in the liquid-flow conduit.
  • a further option is to include a float valve or a valve actuated by liquid flow either within or preferably at the air inlet end of the air flow conduit.
  • a float valve or a valve actuated by liquid flow either within or preferably at the air inlet end of the air flow conduit.
  • liquid would be drawn into the air flow conduit causing the float or valve actuated by liquid flow to close causing the negative pressure to increase within the sealed container thus resulting in a pressure difference across the check valve. Once this pressure difference reaches the closing pressure of the check valve, the check valve closes, liquid-tightly sealing the liquid-flow conduit and preventing further discharge of liquid into the second container.
  • the first check valve can be provided partway along the liquid-flow conduit, or at one end thereof. If provided at the liquid-outlet end of the liquid-flow conduit, the air-flow conduit must still extend a corresponding distance therebeyond, equivalent to the depth of water at which pressure the check valve operates. 0
  • the first check valve can be provided at the liquid-inlet end. Depending on the type of liquid to be dispensed, this may result in a short nozzle body, or difficulty in resetting the check valve to its open condition. However, it is a feasible option. 5
  • the or each check valve may be formed as one-piece with the nozzle body.
  • the first container coupling is releasably connectable to the liquid-tightly 0 sealable container, it could be integrally formed as part of the container.
  • the first container is liquid-tightly sealable, but is preferably fluid-tightly sealable to prevent the escape not only of liquids but also of gases. 5
  • the first container coupling is screw-threadably attachable to the container, it could be attachable by any other suitable means. For example, it could be a tight push fit, or snap-fit.
  • the nozzle body is preferably flexible, but it may be rigid. 0
  • the liquid-flow conduit and the air-flow conduit could be formed separately.
  • the air-flow conduit can be a separate tube.
  • the tube or, in other words, the vent pipe could extend into the container and away from the liquid-flow conduit.
  • the first liquid-tightly sealable container can conveniently be a hand-held portable container for storing, for example, hazardous, liquids, such as a petrol or jerry can.
  • the liquid thus would be a flammable liquid, such as petrol, diesel, paraffin, and such like.
  • the flow control device thus beneficially prevents spillage of the hazardous liquid.
  • the second fluid-tightly sealable container may be a petrol tank, as mentioned above, or another tank, either located on a vehicle or machine, or another container, for example a hand-held portable container for storing hazardous liquids.
  • a cap which can be, for example, screw-threaded or push- or snap- on, can be included in order to cover the liquid-outlet end and air-inlet end so that the liquid-flow conduit and the air-flow conduit are effectively blocked, thus preventing debris and contaminating matter from entering whilst not in use.
  • first and second conduits being the liquid-flow conduit and the airflow conduit respectively, may not be elongate.
  • the first conduit may simply be an opening through a wall or surface.
  • the first check valve in the first conduit can be positioned away from both the air-inlet end and air-outlet end of the air-flow conduit, in a location which is not between the air-inlet and the air-outlet ends. This is particularly feasible if a second check valve is utilised at or in the air-flow conduit.
  • the plate preferably has an outer perimeter 264 with a shape which matches or substantially matches the inner bore shape of the conduit it is placed in.
  • a single plate may be provided to extend across or in both conduits. In this case, a larger opening 266 may be provided to accommodate the second air-flow conduit.
  • the single plate may only accommodate one of the conduits, for example being the first liquid- flow conduit or passage.
  • the perforated plate can be used at the same position as the aforementioned check valve.
  • More than one plate or plate-like element may be used, separately or together in one or both conduits or passages.
  • the larger opening 266 of the plate may, in some circumstances, be replaced by a plurality of smaller openings or perforations.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)
  • Check Valves (AREA)

Abstract

A flow control device (10) for dispensing liquid from a liquid-tightly sealable container (34) into a second container to a predetermined level, comprises a first conduit (12) having a first inlet end (22) and a first outlet end (24), a second conduit (14) which is independent of the first conduit (12) and which has a second inlet end (28) and a second outlet end (30), and a flow control element, preferably being a check valve (16), by which liquid is prevented or substantially prevented from exiting the first outlet end of the first conduit (12). The flow control element (16) has a known operational pressure characteristic at which, on reaching a predetermined pressure differential thereacross, liquid stops passing therethrough. The flow control element (16) is spaced from the second inlet end (28) by a distance which, in liquid, at least provides the predetermined pressure differential required to cause operation of the flow control element (16).

Description

FLOW CONTROL DEVICE
The present invention relates to a flow control device for dispensing liquid from a liquid-tightly sealable container.
It is known from the applicant's earlier published application GB2410537A to provide a flow control device for dispensing liquid into a container to a predetermined level.
However, through testing and research, it has been determined that this flow control device will only operate in conjunction with a container which is not liquid-tightly sealable. In other words, the container on which the flow control device is provided must have a secondary opening which is separate of the flow control device for the passage of air into and out of the container. A typical example of such a container is a watering can, which is not liquid-tightly sealable and which has a nozzle and a separate filling opening. ,
It is also desirable to provide a flow control device which is simple to manufacture and with as few separate and/or moving parts as possible.
Environmental concerns are also important, and the unnecessary release of potentially damaging gas or vapour due to dispensing should be avoided.
The present invention seeks to provide a solution to these problems.
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a flow control device for dispensing liquid from a liquid-tightly sealable container into a second container to a predetermined level, the device comprising : a first conduit having a first inlet end and a first outlet end; a second conduit which is independent of the first conduit and which has a second inlet end and a second outlet end; and a flow control element by which liquid is prevented or substantially prevented from exiting the first outlet end of the first conduit , the flow control element having a known operational pressure characteristic at which, on reaching a predetermined pressure differential thereacross, liquid stops passing therethrough ; the flow control element being spaced from the second inlet end of the second conduit by a distance which, in liquid, at least provides the predetermined pressure differential required to cause operation of the flow control element.
Preferably, the flow control device further comprises a second flow control element which stops liquid passing through the second conduit. In this case, the second flow control element may be independent of the first said flow control element.
Advantageously, the or each flow control element may be a check valve by which the associated conduit is liquid tightly sealable, the said check valve having the known operational pressure characteristic at which the valve closes on reaching the predetermined pressure differential thereacross. In this case, the said check valve(s) may be one of a multiple cuspid valve, duckbill valve, cross-slit valve, flap valve, and an umbrella valve.
Beneficially, the or each flow control element may be a perforated element or plate.
Preferably, the first conduit and/or the second conduit is/are elongate.
Further preferably, the first said flow control element is provided in or at the first conduit at a position which is between the second inlet end and the second outlet end.
Optionally, the second conduit may include a float.
Preferably, the second outlet end is closed and one or more openings are provided in a surface adjacent to the second outlet end.
Advantageously, the first and second conduits may be formed together as part of a tubular body. In this case, the tubular body includes a partitioning wall which extends along the longitudinal extent and which separates the first and second conduits. Preferably, the flow control element is provided partway between the ends of the first conduit.
Alternatively, the flow control element may be provided at one end of the first conduit.
Preferably, the first conduit has a uniform lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent.
Further preferably, the second conduit has a uniform lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent.
Optionally, the first conduit has a greater lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent than the second conduit.
Preferably, the flow control device further comprises a first container coupling which is at the first inlet end of the first conduit and which is releasably connectable to the said liquid-tightly sealable container. In this case, the first container coupling may be screw- threadably connectable to the liquid-tightly sealable container.
Beneficially, the flow control device may further comprises a second container coupling which is connectable to a downstream end of the first conduit and which is releasably connectable to a fluid-tightly sealable said second container. In this case, the second container coupling may be a sleeve or collar.
Preferably, wherein the sleeve or collar is elastic.
Preferably, the collar or sleeve is flexible and slidable onto the flow control device and the second fluid-tightly sealable container.
A flow control device in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, in combination with a liquid-tightly sealable container, the first conduit providing means for liquid flow out of the sealable container, and the second conduit providing means for air flow into the sealable container.
Preferably, the liquid-tightly sealable container is a hand-held portable container for storing liquids.
A method of forming a closed system for a liquid dispensing procedure, the method comprising the steps of : a) fluid-tightly connecting one end of a flow control device in accordance with the first aspect of the invention to a first fluid-tightly sealable container; b) fluid-tightly connecting the other end of the flow control device to a second fluid-tightly sealable container using a coupling device; and c) moving the first fluid-tightly sealable container to dispense liquid therefrom to the second fluid-tightly sealable container, the dispensing of the liquid causing gas in the second fluid-tightly sealable container to pass to the first fluid-tightly sealable container through the flow control device.
Preferably, the first fluid-tightly sealable container is a petrol can.
Further preferably, in step (b), the said coupling device is a collar or a sleeve.
Beneficially, the collar or sleeve may be elastic.
Beneficially, the collar or sleeve may be flexible and slidable onto the flow control device and the second fluid-tightly sealable container.
The present invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, hi which :
Figure 1 shows a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a flow control device, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention and liquid-tightly connected to a liquid-tightly sealable container; Figure 2 shows a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the flow control device fluid- tighύy connected to a second fluid-tightly sealable container;
Figure 3 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a flow control device, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention and shown removed from the container; and
Figure 4 shows a plan view of a different flow control element of a fourth embodiment of a flow control device, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.
Referring first to Figure 1 of the drawings, a flow control device 10 is shown which comprises an elongate liquid-flow passage or conduit 12, an elongate air-flow passage or conduit 14 which is independent of the liquid-flow conduit 12, and a one-way check valve 16.
Herein throughout, 'elongate' is intended to mean having more length than width or, in other words, a greater longitudinal extent than a lateral extent.
The flow control device is preferably a dispensing nozzle for a container. However, it is feasible that the flow control device can be provided as part of the container instead of being in the form of a nozzle. For example, the flow control device can be provided in an dispensing opening of the container.
The liquid-flow conduit 12 and the air-flow conduit 14 are formed together, typically, as a one-piece plastics moulding, into a, typically flexible, tubular nozzle body 18. The liquid-flow conduit 12 and the air-flow conduit 14 are maintained independent of each other by a shared partitioning wall 20 extending the length of the nozzle body 18 and formed integrally with the body 18.
The check valve 16 can be any form of one-way valve, and may have the shape of one of, for example, a multiple cuspid, a duckbill, a cross-slit, a flap, and an umbrella. Other forms of check valve 16 can also be envisaged, for example a ball- valve. Conveniently, the check valve 16 is positionable partway along the liquid-flow conduit 12 by insertion through one end. Consequently, the nozzle body 18 can be easily and cheaply formed as a single one-piece moulding, and the check valve 16 can be inserted thereafter to provide a finished product.
The liquid-flow conduit 12 has a liquid-inlet end 22 and a liquid-outlet end 24 at opposite ends of the nozzle body 18. A liquid-flow path 26 is thus defined therebetween. Similarly, the air-flow conduit 14 has an air-inlet end 28 and an air-outlet end 30, again at opposite ends of the nozzle body 18. An air-flow path 32 is similarly defined therebetween. The liquid-inlet end 22 lies adjacent to the air-outlet end 30 and typically in the same plane, and the liquid-outlet end 24 lies adjacent to the air-inlet end 28, and again typically in the same plane.
To enable, preferably releasable, connection to a liquid-tightly sealable container 34, the nozzle body 18 is formed with a first container coupling 36, in the form of a screw- threaded fastening collar at the liquid-inlet end 22 / air-outlet end 30. The nozzle body 18 includes an outwardly extending flange 38 to retain the collar 36 for free rotational movement on the nozzle body 18. The screw thread is adapted to mate with a screw thread at the opening 40 of the liquid-tightly sealable container 34.
Advantageously, the check valve 16 is insertable into the nozzle body 18 from the liquid-inlet end 22 until it reaches a stop 42 formed in the liquid-flow conduit 12. This direction of insertion beneficially prevents loosening of the check valve 16 during use, since liquid flow urges the check valve 16 against the stop 42. The check valve 16 is oriented to be open in the direction of the liquid-inlet end 22 to the liquid-outlet end 24, and to close in the opposite direction.
It is essential that the pressure differential required across the check valve 16 in order to cause the check valve 16 to close and thus seal is known. This pressure differential is a known predefined or predetermined characteristic, typically being available from the manufacturer of the check valve 16. It is generally known that a pressure of 100 pascals (Pa) (1 millibar) is equivalent to 1 centimetre (cm) depth of water. Therefore, knowing the pressure required to close the check valve 16 allows the distance that the check valve 16 is to be spaced from the air inlet end 28 of the air flow conduit 14 to be determined. By way of example, if the pressure required to close and seal the check valve 16 is 500 Pa, then the check valve 16 must be spaced from the air inlet end 28 of the air flow conduit by at least 5 cm.
This distance may vary slightly, depending on the type of liquid to be dispensed through the flow control device 10. However, in general terms, equating the required pressure at which the check valve 16 closes to a corresponding depth, of water, and then positioning the check valve 16 at least this distance from the liquid-outlet end 24, has been shown to be reliable during testing with various liquids.
In use and with the flow control device 10 connected to the opening 40 of a first liquid- tightly sealable container 34, the container 34 is tilted so that liquid passes only through the liquid-inlet end 22 of the liquid-flow conduit 12 of the nozzle body 18, and discharges from the liquid-outlet end 24 after passing through the check valve 16. Simultaneously and due to the pressure difference being created within the container by the discharge of the liquid, air is drawn into the interior of the container 34 only via the air-flow conduit 14.
The liquid is discharged into a second container, which is dependent on the liquid, but which could be, for example, a petrol tank, the flow of liquid from the sealed container 34 causes a negative pressure to be created within the container 34, this negative pressure causes air/vapour to be drawn through the air flow conduit 14 via the air inlet end 28 in to the sealed container 34 through the air outlet end 30. As the level in the second container, rises and meets the air-inlet end 28 of the air-flow conduit 14, liquid is drawn up the air flow conduit by the negative pressure within the sealed container 34. When sufficient liquid is drawn up the air flow conduit 14 the negative pressure will increase within the sealed container 34 resulting in a pressure difference across the check valve 16. Once this pressure difference reaches the closing pressure of the check valve 16, the check valve 16 closes, liquid-tightly sealing the liquid-flow conduit 12 and preventing further discharge of liquid into the second container. In reality, this whole process occurs in a fraction of a second.
The flow control device 10 can thus be removed from the second container, and the liquid-tightly sealable container 34 can be righted. Righting of the liquid-tightly sealable container 34 removes the pressure on the check valve 16, allowing the valve 16 to re-open and thus re-set.
Taking into account environmental concerns, Figure 2 shows, as a second embodiment, the inclusion of a second container coupling 44, in the form of a sleeve. The sleeve 44 is preferably elastic, and may conveniently be formed from elastomeric material. The sleeve 44 is intended to prevent the escape of environmentally damaging gases during dispensing.
In use, one end of the sleeve 44 is drawn or slid tightly over the free downstream end of the nozzle body 18 at which the liquid-outlet end 24 the air-inlet end 28 are located. The other end is coupled to an opening 46 of a second container 48 through which the dispensed liquid will flow. The second container 48 is a fluid-tightly sealable container. Again, the coupling is formed by sliding the sleeve 44 over the opening 46 of the container 48 to form a tight connection. A closed system is thus formed whereby, as liquid is dispensed from the first liquid-tightly sealable container 34 to the second container 48, gas or vapour is drawn through the air-flow conduit 14 from the second container 48 and into the liquid-tightly sealable container 34.
The sleeve 44 can be extendable. For example, it may be concertinaed or simply elastic.
As an alternative, fastening devices, such as clips, ties or clamps, can be used to connect the sleeve to either or both containers. These fastening devices are preferably releasable. In a modification, the second container coupling can be a threaded collar, instead of a sleeve, which allows the nozzle body to be securely and releasably fluid-tightly attachable to the opening of the second container.
It may be necessary to prevent liquid flowing into the air-outlet end during a dispensing procedure, especially when the container is first tipped. In a third embodiment of the flow control device 110 as shown in Figure 3, a second one-way check-valve 150 in the air-flow conduit 114 is provided, in order to allow air flow into the container, but to prevent the ingress of liquid. Preferably, the second check valve 150 is positioned at the air-outlet end 130, so as to be spaced from the first check valve 116 positioned in the liquid-flow conduit 112.
In this third embodiment, the check valves 116 and 150 are multi-cuspid one-way valves. However, as mentioned above, any suitable check valve can be utilised.
An alternative is to provide a sealed or closed end at the air-outlet end of the air-flow conduit, and to move the air-outlet opening to provide one or more vent openings in the side of the air-flow conduit, spaced a small distance from the sealed or closed end. By having the vent openings in the side of the air-flow conduit, resistance to reverse flow is promoted.
A further option is to provide a much shorter air-flow conduit, or in other words vent pipe, which allows liquid to flow through the check valve in the liquid flow conduit before having the opportunity to flow through the air-flow conduit. The air-outlet end of the air-flow conduit would thus be adjacent to or downstream of the check valve in the liquid-flow conduit.
A further option is to include a float valve or a valve actuated by liquid flow either within or preferably at the air inlet end of the air flow conduit. As the fluid level rises in the second container, liquid would be drawn into the air flow conduit causing the float or valve actuated by liquid flow to close causing the negative pressure to increase within the sealed container thus resulting in a pressure difference across the check valve. Once this pressure difference reaches the closing pressure of the check valve, the check valve closes, liquid-tightly sealing the liquid-flow conduit and preventing further discharge of liquid into the second container.
"5
The first check valve can be provided partway along the liquid-flow conduit, or at one end thereof. If provided at the liquid-outlet end of the liquid-flow conduit, the air-flow conduit must still extend a corresponding distance therebeyond, equivalent to the depth of water at which pressure the check valve operates. 0
The first check valve can be provided at the liquid-inlet end. Depending on the type of liquid to be dispensed, this may result in a short nozzle body, or difficulty in resetting the check valve to its open condition. However, it is a feasible option. 5 The or each check valve may be formed as one-piece with the nozzle body.
Combinations of the above mentioned options or modification can of course be used.
Although the first container coupling is releasably connectable to the liquid-tightly 0 sealable container, it could be integrally formed as part of the container.
The first container is liquid-tightly sealable, but is preferably fluid-tightly sealable to prevent the escape not only of liquids but also of gases. 5 Furthermore, although the first container coupling is screw-threadably attachable to the container, it could be attachable by any other suitable means. For example, it could be a tight push fit, or snap-fit.
The nozzle body is preferably flexible, but it may be rigid. 0
Although formed together as one-piece, the liquid-flow conduit and the air-flow conduit could be formed separately. For example, the air-flow conduit can be a separate tube. In this case, the tube or, in other words, the vent pipe, could extend into the container and away from the liquid-flow conduit.
Although not limited to such, the first liquid-tightly sealable container can conveniently be a hand-held portable container for storing, for example, hazardous, liquids, such as a petrol or jerry can. The liquid thus would be a flammable liquid, such as petrol, diesel, paraffin, and such like. The flow control device thus beneficially prevents spillage of the hazardous liquid.
The second fluid-tightly sealable container may be a petrol tank, as mentioned above, or another tank, either located on a vehicle or machine, or another container, for example a hand-held portable container for storing hazardous liquids.
Advantageously, so that the nozzle, or in other words spout, does not necessarily have to be removed from the container, for example following a dispensing operation, a cap, which can be, for example, screw-threaded or push- or snap- on, can be included in order to cover the liquid-outlet end and air-inlet end so that the liquid-flow conduit and the air-flow conduit are effectively blocked, thus preventing debris and contaminating matter from entering whilst not in use.
One or both of the first and second conduits, being the liquid-flow conduit and the airflow conduit respectively, may not be elongate. For example, the first conduit may simply be an opening through a wall or surface.
It is feasible that the first check valve in the first conduit can be positioned away from both the air-inlet end and air-outlet end of the air-flow conduit, in a location which is not between the air-inlet and the air-outlet ends. This is particularly feasible if a second check valve is utilised at or in the air-flow conduit.
Although typically only gas or vapour will pass along the air-flow conduit, liquid may also pass therealong. Although the above description has been made with reference to one or more check valves, other kinds of flow control element can be utilised, whilst the other features remain the same. As shown by way of example in Figure 4, through research and development, it has been found that a plate or element 260 having a plurality of holes 262 or perforations can provide the required operational pressure characteristics which, on reaching a predetermined pressure differential thereacross, stops liquid from passing therethrough. A multitude of perforations are required. The perforations preferably have a diameter in the range of 0.1 to 3 millimetres. However, dimensions beyond this range are potentially feasible.
The plate preferably has an outer perimeter 264 with a shape which matches or substantially matches the inner bore shape of the conduit it is placed in. A single plate may be provided to extend across or in both conduits. In this case, a larger opening 266 may be provided to accommodate the second air-flow conduit. However, the single plate may only accommodate one of the conduits, for example being the first liquid- flow conduit or passage. Typically, the perforated plate can be used at the same position as the aforementioned check valve.
More than one plate or plate-like element may be used, separately or together in one or both conduits or passages.
The larger opening 266 of the plate may, in some circumstances, be replaced by a plurality of smaller openings or perforations.
Although plate is mentioned above, this term is intended to encompass disks and blocks.
It is thus possible to provide a flow control device which is simple and cost-effective to manufacture, but which immediately halts dispensing of any liquid once a predetermined level is reached in a second container. It is thus unnecessary for a user to monitor the level of liquid in the second container. It is also possible to form a closed system for the dispensing procedure, thereby preventing or limiting the escape of potentially environmentally-damaging gas. The embodiments described above are given by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A flow control device (10; 110) for dispensing liquid from a liquid-tightly sealable container (34) into a second container (48) to a predetermined level, the device comprising : a first conduit (12; 112) having a first inlet end (22) and a first outlet end (24); a second conduit (14; 114) which is independent of the first conduit (12; 112) and which has a second inlet end (28) and a second outlet end (30); and a flow control element (16; 116; 260) by which liquid is prevented or substantially prevented from exiting the first outlet end (24) of the first conduit (12; 112), the flow control element (16; 116; 260) having a known operational pressure characteristic at which, on reaching a predetermined pressure differential thereacross, liquid stops passing therethrough; the flow control element (16; 116; 260) being spaced from the second inlet end (28) of the second conduit (14; 114) by a distance which, in liquid, at least provides the predetermined pressure differential required to cause operation of the flow control element (16; 116; 260).
2. A flow control device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a second flow control element (150) which stops liquid passing through the second conduit (114).
3. A flow control device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the second flow control element (150) is independent of the first said flow control element (116).
4. A flow control device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the or each flow control element (16; 116, 150) is a check valve by which the associated conduit is liquid tightly sealable, the said check valve having the known operational pressure characteristic at which the valve closes on reaching the predetermined pressure differential thereacross.
5. A flow control device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the said check valve(s) (16; 116, 150) is/are one of a multiple cuspid valve, duckbill valve, cross-slit valve, flap valve, and an umbrella valve.
6. A flow control device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the or each flow control element (260) is a perforated element or plate.
7. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first conduit (12; 112) and/or the second conduit (14; 114) is/are elongate.
8. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first said flow control element (16; 116; 260) is provided in or at the first conduit (12; 112) at a position which is between the second inlet end (28) and the second outlet end (30).
9. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second conduit includes a float.
10. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second outlet end is closed and one or more openings are provided in a surface adjacent to the second outlet end.
11. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second conduits (12, 14; 112, 114) are formed together as part of a tubular body (18).
12. A flow control device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the tubular body (18) includes a partitioning wall (20) which extends along the longitudinal extent and which separates the first and second conduits (12, 14; 112, 114).
13. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow control element (16; 116; 260) is provided partway between the ends of the first conduit (12; 112).
14. A flow control device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the flow control element is provided at one end of the first conduit.
15. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first conduit (12; 112) has a uniform lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent.
16. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second conduit (14; 114) has a uniform lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent.
17. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first conduit (12; 112) has a greater lateral dimension along its longitudinal extent than the second conduit (14; 114).
18. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a first container coupling (36) which is at the first inlet end (22) of the first conduit (12; 112) and which is releasably connectable to the said liquid-tightly sealable container (34).
19. A flow control device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the first container coupling (36) is screw-threadably connectable to the liquid-tightly sealable container (34).
20. A flow control device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a second container coupling (44) which is connectable to a downstream end of the first conduit (12; 112) and which is releasably connectable to a fluid-tightly sealable said second container (48).
21. A flow control device as claimed in claim 20, wherein the second container coupling (44) is a sleeve or collar.
22. A flow control device as claimed in claim 21, wherein the sleeve (44) or collar is elastic.
23. A flow control device as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the collar or sleeve (44) is flexible and slidable onto the flow control device (110) and the second fluid-tightly sealable container (48).
24. A flow control device substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
25. A flow control device (10; 110) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in combination with a liquid-tightly sealable container (34), the first conduit (12; 112) providing means for liquid flow out of the sealable container (34), and the second conduit (14; 114) providing means for air flow into the sealable container (34).
26. A combination as claimed in claim 25, wherein the liquid-tightly sealable container (34) is a hand-held portable container for storing liquids.
27. A flow control device (10; 110) in combination with a liquid-tightly sealable container (34) substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
28. A method of forming a closed system for a liquid dispensing procedure, the method comprising the steps of : a) fluid-tightly connecting one end of a flow control device (110) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 24 to a first fluid-tightly sealable container (34); b) fluid-tightly connecting the other end of the flow control device (110) to a second fluid-tightly sealable container (34) using a coupling device (44); and c) moving the first fluid-tightly sealable container (34) to dispense liquid therefrom to the second fluid-tightly sealable container (34), the dispensing of the liquid causing gas in the second fluid-tightly sealable container (34) to pass to the first fluid-tightly sealable container (34) through the flow control device (110).
29. A method as claimed in claim 28, wherein the first fluid-tightly sealable container (34) is a petrol can.
30. A method as claimed in claim 28 or claim 29, wherein, in step (b), the said coupling device is a collar or a sleeve (44).
31. A method as claimed in claim 30, wherein the collar or sleeve (44) is elastic.
32. A method as claimed in claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the collar or sleeve is flexible and slidable onto the flow control device (110) and the second fluid-tightly sealable container (48).
EP08718649A 2007-11-10 2008-03-07 Spout with flow valve for a jerry-can Withdrawn EP2219992A2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0722106A GB0722106D0 (en) 2007-11-10 2007-11-10 Flow control device
PCT/GB2008/000796 WO2009060162A2 (en) 2007-11-10 2008-03-07 Spout with flow valve for a jerry-can

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2219992A2 true EP2219992A2 (en) 2010-08-25

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ID=38858507

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP08718649A Withdrawn EP2219992A2 (en) 2007-11-10 2008-03-07 Spout with flow valve for a jerry-can

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2219992A2 (en)
GB (1) GB0722106D0 (en)
WO (1) WO2009060162A2 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB0722106D0 (en) 2007-12-19
WO2009060162A2 (en) 2009-05-14
WO2009060162A3 (en) 2009-06-25

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