JP2011518361A - Regulator, power supply system and method of using them - Google Patents

Abstract

It is more compact and / or easier to maintain and / or exhibits a lesser degree of complexity in structure and / or operation and / or exhibits improved performance characteristics and / or Or, provide a pneumatic regulator that exhibits improved reliability.
The present invention provides a single stage regulator (1). The single stage regulator (1) is composed of three main parts including a cartridge body (3), a main regulator body (31) and a regulator cap (53). Pressurized air is taken from the high-pressure input opening (11), passes through the high-pressure chamber (61) and the low-pressure chamber (59), and is supplied from the low-pressure port (57) to a device that uses compressed air. By operating the adjustment knob (55) to adjust the position of the regulator (or internal piston) (49) in the piston (37), the pressure of the output air / gas can be adjusted.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

This application has the benefit of priority with respect to US Provisional Application No. 60 / 992,329, filed Dec. 4, 2007, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In addition, this application includes the following patents and patent applications in their entirety by reference. :
US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 186,086 filed Jun. 28, 2002, entitled “Apparatus and Method for Using Lightweight and Portable Air / Gas Power Source”. This application was registered as US Pat. No. 6,932,128 on August 23, 2005. ;
The title of the invention is “Portable Apparatus and Method for Producing and Filling Clean, Dry, High Pressure Compressed Air / Gas”, US Provisional Application No. 60/780, filed Mar. 8, 2006. 236. ;
US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 449,772 filed Jun. 9, 2006, entitled “Portable Pneumatic Power Supply / Compression System and Method”. This application is pending. ;
US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 450,041, filed Jun. 9, 2006, whose title is “Portable Air / Gas Compressor”. This application is pending. ;
No. 60 / 977,374, filed Oct. 3, 2007, entitled “Pneumatic Regulator Assembly, Power Supply System and Method of Use thereof”. ;
International application PCT / US07 / 88865 filed on Dec. 26, 2007 with the title of the invention “Regulators, power supply systems and methods for their use”. This application is pending. ;and,
The name of the invention is “Regulator, power supply system and method for using them”, and international application PCT / US08 / 78868 filed on Oct. 3, 2008. This application is pending.

  The present invention relates to a regulator with a portable pneumatic power supply system, parts thereof, and / or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for using a regulator and / or a pneumatic power supply system.

  A great variety of devices and the like have been developed over the centuries and have been addressed to a number of construction and manufacturing technologies that have evolved to the present day during the development of technological civilization. For example, in one industry such as the construction industry, dozens of different devices can be used at one construction site. In particular, the number of such devices utilized increases due to the various specialities and secondary specialities of carpentry and other architectural techniques, followed by the development of more complex modern buildings. I have done it.

  Through the development of modern equipment, substantial efforts have been made to improve work efficiency by automating equipment operation, mainly by improving equipment operating speed and reducing equipment operator fatigue. In the last few decades, such automation efforts have typically been directed to the development or development of compressors or electric devices powered by pneumatic devices. In this regard, as these efficiencies have improved and the use of automated equipment has become routine, workers are struggling when pneumatic nailers or power drills are not available at the construction site. Nevertheless, conventional pneumatic or electric devices have various inconveniences or disadvantages.

  For example, a pneumatic power or electric device that is connected directly to a compressor with a hose or connected to an electrical plug via an electrical cord has limited portability or mobility due to the connection to each of these power sources. (E.g., their portability is limited by the length of the hose or cord and / or they may be difficult to climb or safely climb, e.g.) . Furthermore, the longer the cords or hoses are, the heavier they are overall, increasing the likelihood that these hoses or cords will become tangled or act as a safety issue (eg, a tripping hazard). Battery-powered devices overcome some of these disadvantages, but these devices are burdened by disadvantages such as their increased weight and reliability that depends on the finite charge of the battery (and, for example, , You must wait for charging after the battery runs out, or you must have an additional usable battery).

  The inventor of the present invention, at least in part, in his US Pat. No. 6,932,128, whose title is “Apparatus and Method for Using Lightweight and Portable Air / Gas Power Source” Addressed the above problems and shortcomings. The present invention is intended, in part, to further improve the apparatus and method disclosed in the '128 patent and to provide other improvements not necessarily related to the direction of technology specifically disclosed in the' 128 patent. To do.

  Although there are various types of regulators in the art, improvements in current regulator designs are desired in this regard. For example, being smaller and / or easier to maintain and / or exhibiting a lesser degree of complexity and / or improved performance characteristics in structure and / or operation, and / or Regulators that exhibit improved reliability are desired.

  In view of the above, there is clearly a need in the art for apparatus and / or systems and / or methods that overcome or at least ameliorate one or more of the above or other disadvantages. It is an object of the present invention to meet this need and other needs in the art that will be apparent to those skilled in the art once given the above disclosure.

  Generally speaking, the present invention addresses the above need in the art by providing an improved regulator and / or component thereof in one aspect. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a single stage regulator, which exhibits improved size and / or ease and / or manufacturing cost and / or structure and / or performance and / or reliability. In other embodiments, the present invention provides a portable power supply that uses the regulators (and / or components thereof) described herein.

In some (unrestricted) embodiments,
A high pressure input opening for including a first end for screwing into the high pressure cylinder and a second end for screwing into the main regulator body, wherein the first end of the cartridge body exchanges gas flow with the high pressure cylinder A central opening disposed between the regulator sheet opening and the high-voltage input opening, and the second end of the cartridge body has a regulator sheet opening for holding the regulator sheet. A biasing mechanism that is seated and disposed in the central opening, a regulator sheet that is disposed in the regulator seat opening and has a through hole in the central portion, and a part of the central opening A regulator pin disposed between the biasing mechanism and the regulator sheet, and a through hole of the regulator sheet A first end of the regulator pin that is disposed through and can be biased in both directions along the axial direction through the through-hole, and the biasing mechanism biases the regulator pin in the opposite direction. A cartridge body including a second end of the regulator pin that contacts the biasing mechanism to apply force;
A main regulator body comprising: a cartridge chamber for screwing the cartridge body; and a piston opening connected to the cartridge chamber for gas flow and spaced axially from the cartridge chamber;
A first portion that is at least partially disposed within the piston opening, is axially movable within the piston opening, and has a first outer diameter and a second outer portion that is smaller than the first outer diameter; A vertically long body including a second portion having a diameter, a shoulder extending laterally near the connecting portion of the first portion and the second portion, and adjusting to an appropriate position along the axial direction A piston with a central opening to hold a possible adjustment mechanism;
A plurality of Belleville springs arranged in the second portion of the piston along the axial direction and in contact with the shoulder to transmit force (Belleville springs are discussed throughout the specification, although Of course, other biasing mechanisms or types of springs may be used.)
With
The main regulator body further includes an upper threaded portion that is screwed into the regulator cap, and the regulator cap includes the Belleville spring in the regulator when the main regulator body is screwed in, and the shoulder portion In contact with the Belleville spring so that force can be transmitted against it,
further,
An adjustment knob connected to the adjustment mechanism and adjustable to selectively move the adjustment mechanism in both directions along the axial direction within the piston;
A low pressure port disposed in the main regulator body and capable of selectively exchanging gas flow with the low pressure chamber of the regulator;
With
The low pressure chamber of the regulator can further selectively exchange gas flow with the high pressure chamber,
The high-pressure chamber is disposed adjacent to a second end of the cartridge body, or a part thereof is formed at the second end;
The low pressure chamber has a fluid flow (gas flow) separated from the high pressure chamber by the regulator sheet,
The regulator pin is movable in both directions along an axial direction, and passes or stops gas flowing between the high-pressure chamber and the low-pressure chamber via a through hole of the regulator sheet.
A regulator is provided.

In other unrestricted embodiments,
A high pressure input opening for including a first end for screwing into the high pressure cylinder and a second end for screwing into the main regulator body, wherein the first end of the cartridge body exchanges gas flow with the high pressure cylinder A central opening disposed between the regulator sheet opening and the high-voltage input opening, and the second end of the cartridge body has a regulator sheet opening for holding the regulator sheet. A biasing mechanism that is seated and disposed in the central opening, a regulator sheet that is disposed in the regulator seat opening and has a through hole in the central portion, and a part of the central opening A regulator pin disposed between the biasing mechanism and the regulator sheet, and a through hole of the regulator sheet A first end of the regulator pin that is disposed through and can be biased in both directions along the axial direction through the through-hole, and the biasing mechanism biases the regulator pin in the opposite direction. A cartridge body including a second end of the regulator pin that contacts the biasing mechanism to apply force;
A main regulator body comprising: a cartridge chamber for screwing the cartridge body; and a piston opening connected to the cartridge chamber for gas flow and spaced axially from the cartridge chamber;
A first portion that is at least partially disposed within the piston opening, is axially movable within the piston opening, and has a first outer diameter and a second outer portion that is smaller than the first outer diameter; A vertically long body including a second portion having a diameter, a shoulder extending laterally near the connecting portion of the first portion and the second portion, and adjusting to an appropriate position along the axial direction A piston with a central opening to hold a possible adjustment mechanism;
A plurality of Belleville springs disposed in the second portion of the piston along an axial direction and in contact with the shoulder to transmit force;
With
The main regulator body further includes an upper threaded portion that is screwed into the regulator cap, and the regulator cap includes the Belleville spring in the regulator when the main regulator body is screwed in, and the shoulder portion In contact with the Belleville spring so that force can be transmitted against it,
further,
Is connected to the adjustment mechanism and selectively moves the adjustment mechanism in both directions along the axial direction within the piston, so that the selected position in the axial direction relative to the first end of the regulator pin. An adjustment knob that is adjustable to selectively bias the pin seat portion of the adjustment mechanism;
A low-pressure port disposed in the main regulator body and capable of exchanging gas flow with a low-pressure chamber of the regulator;
With
The low pressure chamber of the regulator can further selectively exchange gas flow with the high pressure chamber,
The high-pressure chamber is disposed adjacent to a second end of the cartridge body, or a part thereof is formed at the second end;
The low pressure chamber is separated from the high pressure chamber by the regulator sheet from the fluid / gas flow;
The regulator pin is movable in both directions along the axial direction, and passes or stops gas flowing between the high pressure chamber and the low pressure chamber via a through hole of the regulator sheet,
The cartridge body, the main regulator body, the piston, the low pressure chamber, and the high pressure chamber are arranged substantially coaxially with respect to each other;
A regulator is provided.

  In some non-limiting embodiments, the high pressure input opening, the central opening, and the high pressure chamber constitute a gas flow path to the low pressure chamber. In some other embodiments, the high pressure input opening is disposed substantially on the axis relative to the longitudinal axis of the piston.

  In some non-limiting embodiments, the low pressure chamber defines a space between at least one surface of the piston opening and at least one surface of the first portion of the piston. In another or the same embodiment without limitation, the regulator further comprises a neck or gas connecting the high pressure chamber and the low pressure chamber for gas flow between the high pressure chamber and the low pressure chamber. Provide a constriction. In another further non-limiting embodiment, the first end of the regulator pin extends through the neck or constriction into the low pressure chamber and contacts the first end of the adjustment mechanism. Optionally, in such or other non-limiting embodiments, operation of the adjustment knob adjusts the pressure of the Belleville spring on the piston.

  Optionally, in any one or combination of the above-described embodiments, the gas flow is exchanged with the low pressure port to indicate the pressure contained in the low pressure chamber for output from the low pressure port A measuring instrument port for connecting a display measuring instrument may be provided. In the same or other embodiments, a high pressure instrument port is further provided.

  If desired, in any one or combination of the above-described embodiments, the regulator cap may be mounted without substantially depressurizing the high pressure cylinder while the regulator is attached to a pressurized high pressure cylinder. The regulator is designed so that it can be removed (e.g., in such an embodiment, when the regulator cap is removed, the regulator pin automatically plugs the regulator seat, allowing air flow from the high pressure side to the low pressure side. stop.). In at least one such embodiment, the biasing mechanism or Belleville spring can be removed and replaced with a spring or other type of biasing mechanism. The replacement has a different spring value or bias and changes the output characteristics of the regulator, for example the psi output characteristics (without requiring the regulator to be removed from the high pressure cylinder or the high pressure cylinder to be depleted). In some other contemplated examples with alternative regulator caps or body designs, nonetheless, selectively removing the Belleville springs (of course other types of springs may be used) The regulator is designed to replace other types, or other spring bias or strength rating springs, and vary the psi output of the regulator according to the desired selected end use. For example, such a regulator can be switched between 0-150 psi output and 0-300 psi output (actually typically 150-300 psi output) by a simple spring pack (or biasing mechanism pack) replacement. May be changed to This is for various types of end use ranging from inflating sports balls such as basketball and soccer balls to higher pressure applications such as powering impact wrenches and operating emergency lift bags (eg It is important in at least one respect that it is desired to use such a regulator (as part of a portable power supply system). In some preferred embodiments (especially as described above, or in combinations or subcombinations thereof), the psi output that can be changed (in any of the embodiments described above) is a maximum psi output, in a predetermined range. Selected from the group comprising psi output, minimum psi output, or a combination of output variables listed here.

  In some embodiments of the regulator contemplated herein, a single stage regulator configuration is obtained that is unmatched in ease of assembly and repair. In such an embodiment, a removable module with a built-in cartridge assembly comprised of a combination of a cartridge body (example configuration described herein), a regulator pin, a regulator seat, and a biasing mechanism (eg, a spring) Assembled as. The use of such modules in such regulator configuration examples helps to simplify the maintenance and / or repair of the regulator while at the same time or, optionally, simplifies manufacturing and / or reliability. It helps to raise. In addition, selecting or combining the advantages described herein can result in a smaller regulator configuration (eg, this is an unexpected obstacle in firefighting applications and other situations where tangles are a concern) Is important to avoid.).

  In various embodiments, the regulator is designed to connect to a source of pressurized air, such as a portable small container. In such an embodiment, the small container is desirably small enough to be carried by the user and is connected through a regulator to a hose that is operably connected to a device using multiple compressed air.

  In some of the embodiments described herein, the longitudinal position of the internal piston (eg, piston adjustment mechanism) within the outer piston is user adjustable (eg, due to regulator adjustability). . And for adjustment by the user of the position of such an internal piston or mechanism within the outer (regulator) piston, the regulator further knobs for changing the position (within the regulator body) the piston assembly contacts the regulator pin (Or other mechanical adjustment mechanism).

  Further, in some embodiments, the regulator is capable of accepting air / gas at a pressure between at least 0-6000 PSI at the air input port and reducing the pressure of such air / gas to Supply such air / gas from the gas output port. In some preferred embodiments, the regulator supplies from the air / gas output port at a pressure selected between 150-300 PSI. And in a more preferred embodiment, the regulator supplies from the air / gas output port at a pressure selected between 0-300 PSI. In further preferred embodiments, the regulator supplies from the air / gas output port at a pressure selected between 0-500 PSI (eg, supplied from the air / gas output port at various desired volume supply rates). In the most desirable (but still unrestricted) embodiment, a wide range of pressures and volumes can be selected and supplied without the need for component replacement and / or substantial regulator adjustment. it can. In some particularly useful embodiments, no regulator adjustment is required (eg, perhaps other than the output pressure knob) when replacing end-use applications.

In some embodiments, the air / gas outlet is connected to a pneumatically operated device using an air / gas hose. The regulator further includes an air fill port, which can be connected, for example, using an air hose to a reservoir or compressor to refill an air tank connected to the regulator.
In another aspect, the invention provides (a) an adjustable regulator as described herein, (b) a pressurized air / gas tank, and (c) one end connected to an air outlet and the other end Is directed to a portable pneumatic device power supply system including a hose connected to the pneumatic device.
Several examples of the invention are described below with respect to some non-limiting embodiments as described in the following drawings.

The top view of one Embodiment of the regulator which concerns on this invention is shown. FIG. 2 shows a selectable exploded view of one embodiment of a regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 3 shows a selectable top view of an example cartridge body used in some embodiments of a regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a top view, a side view, and a bottom view of examples of regulator pins used in some embodiments of the regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 3 shows a selectable view of a regulator sheet used in some embodiments of the regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a plan view of examples of regulator bodies used in some embodiments of regulators according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a plurality of top, bottom and top views of an example piston used in some embodiments of a regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a plan view of an example of a regulator cap used in some embodiments of a regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 3 shows a top view, bottom view and side view of an example regulator regulator used in some embodiments of a regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 4 shows multiple views of an example of an adjustment knob used in some embodiments of a regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 3 shows an end view and a side view of an example of a filling strut used in some embodiments of a regulator according to the present invention. FIG. 4 shows multiple views of an example of a regulator fill port adapter used in some embodiments of the regulator according to the present invention.

  For a more complete understanding of the present invention and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description of various graphical and non-limiting embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals indicate like features, and in which:

  First, FIGS. 1 and 2 show assembly and exploded views of a selectable embodiment of an example of a regulator according to the present invention. In this respect, these figures are assembled together and contain three main parts including a cartridge body 3, a main regulator body 31, and a regulator cap 53 that house and / or operably surround the functional parts of the regulator 1. The regulator 1 comprised with an assembly is shown.

  By way of illustration, one example of a cartridge body 3 is (preferably) a single body, generally having a first end 5 for screwing into a high pressure cylinder (see FIG. 1) and a second end 7 for screwing into a main regulator body 31. Consists of structure. In this regard, the first end 5 includes a high pressure input opening 11 for exchanging gas flow with a high pressure cylinder to which it is attached (or attached). The cartridge body 3 includes a regulator sheet opening 13 for holding the regulator sheet 21 on the opposite side, that is, the second end 7, and a biasing force is provided between the first end 5 and the second end 7. They serve as seats for mechanisms 19 (eg, normal coil springs or other suitable mechanisms) and are used to exchange gas flow between the high pressure input opening 11 and the regulator seat opening 13. A central opening 17 to be connected is included. Further, as shown, the central opening 17 (shaped in a hexagonal shape so that air / gas flows around it; see FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c) houses a portion of the regulator pin 25. The regulator pin 25 has a narrow and elongated first end 27 (which includes or comprises a tip), which is the central opening of the regulator seat 21 (which is itself press-fit into the regulator seat opening 13). Usually plugged into. The opposite side of the regulator pin 25, that is, the second end, is in urging contact with the urging mechanism 19 (for example, a coil spring) as shown in the drawing. In this respect, the regulator pin 25 can move in both the upward and downward directions in the cartridge 3 during the operation of the regulator, and the conical shape, that is, the wide portion of the regulator pin 25 is the opening 23 of the regulator sheet 21. When moving in a mating direction or in a non-engaging direction, such a regulator pin 25 effectively opens and closes the opening 23 of the regulator seat 21 (eg, selectively and physically opening the air / gas passage). Acted to open and close the gas path to the low pressure side of the regulator.

  As best shown in FIG. 1, the entire cartridge assembly (including, for example, the cartridge body that houses the regulator pins, springs, and regulator seat) has an O-ring in place to obtain or achieve the required seal. Is connected to the main regulator body 31 by simply screwing in (where the thread, whether male or female, is generally referred to by the symbol “T” throughout the drawing. Similarly, for efficiency purposes) O-rings are generally designated with the label “O” throughout the drawing.)

  On the opposite side of the cartridge connection to the main regulator body (preferably in axial alignment with the main regulator body), the piston 37 is housed in a piston opening (or chamber) 35. When so mounted, the low pressure chamber 59 (having a first diameter OD1; see FIG. 7) is the first end (or portion) 39 of the piston and the wall adjacent to the opposing wall of the piston opening 35. (Thus, as the position of the piston 37 changes axially within the piston opening 35 of the regulator, the volume of the low pressure chamber increases or decreases). (Having a second diameter OD2; see FIG. 7) At the opposite second end (or portion) 41, the piston 37 is a bank of Belleville-type springs 45 (eg stainless steel). Place. And, the Belleville spring 45 has been found to be particularly effective in achieving good performance characteristics of the regulator (other types of springs or biasing mechanisms may nevertheless be used). As shown, one end of the bank of the Belleville spring 45 is fitted into the shoulder 43 of the piston 37, while the other end is wrapped or “captured” by the regulator cap 53. The regulator cap 53 is removably attached to the main regulator body 31 using male and female threaded portions.

  Furthermore, the piston 37 has a central opening 47 for holding and / or fitting an adjuster (adjustment mechanism) 49. The adjuster 49 can be screwed into different axial positions within the piston 37 to adjust the output characteristics of the regulator. In this regard, in the described embodiment, the position of the adjuster 49 is adjusted by operation of an adjustment knob 55 that is secured to the adjuster (or internal piston) 49 using a pin or other mechanism (however, If the adjustment knob 55 is not provided, it can be adjusted by other mechanisms such as a screwdriver or hex wrench). Adjusting the position of such an adjuster 49 changes its effective length, and therefore changes the relative bias against the regulator pin 25 (at the narrow elongated first end 27) and seals within the piston 37. The regulator (or internal piston) 49 to be mounted on the diameter of the regulator and the regulator 37 (with at least one O-ring used on the piston 37 for sealing between the piston 37 and the main regulator body 31). Adjust and / or adjust the output characteristics. In this regard, the regulator (or internal piston) 49 includes a pin seat “PS” (which is best shown in FIG. 9 with a detent region), and when the regulator is assembled, the pin seat “PS” is ( The regulator pin 25 is biased via the narrow and elongated first end 27 (assisted by the biasing force of the Belleville spring 45 against the piston 37). Similarly, the regulator pin 25 is biased in the opposite direction by a biasing mechanism (or spring) 19. With this configuration, of course, the piston 37 is axially moved back and forth in the piston opening (or piston chamber) 35 during regulator operation and as a function of internal system pressure and spring value as part of the regulator operation. You can see that it moves. In addition, to change the “balance” of the counter biasing force provided by the biasing mechanism (or spring) 19 and the Belleville spring 45 (relative to the air / gas pressure of the internal system) (piston 37 It can be seen that the axial position of the adjuster (or internal piston) 49 can be adjusted. In this regard, adjusting the axial position of the regulator (or internal piston) 49 may require air / gas volume and / or pressure to move or pass through the regulator seat 21 during operation of the regulator. (FIGS. 7 and 9 are more detailed views of piston 37 and regulator (or internal piston) 49).

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, a low pressure port (or output port) 57 to which a low pressure hose is attached is provided (the low pressure port (or output port) 57 is a low pressure chamber (or output chamber) 59 and Change air / gas). In this regard, the present embodiment, for example, a thread for attaching a quick connect / open type coupler for connecting to an air / gas hose (for example, also connecting to a device using compressed air). A low pressure port (or output port) 57 with walls marked with is provided. In such or related embodiments, a portable pneumatic power supply system for use, for example, for a portable power device as disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,932,128. The regulator described above may be used as a component (eg, instead of using an attached compressor).

  The fill port 63 is located below the low pressure port 57 in the regulator body (in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, although there are other possible positions that are possible and expected). Filling the high pressure cylinder to a pressure useful for operation (eg, up to approximately 6000 psi) using an air / gas passage connected to the high pressure chamber 61 (by connecting the high pressure chamber 61 to a high pressure air / gas supply). Such a port (fill port 63) can be connected to a fill strut 65 and a fill port adapter 67 (see FIGS. 11 and 12). Such a filling passage or filling mechanism includes a filling port port (or chamber port) 64 having a thread T for screwing and connecting to the filling port adapter 67. Similarly, the fill port adapter 67 includes a one-way valve type assembly consisting of fill struts (or poppet valves) 65 that are selectively sealed and unsealed by O-rings during use and filling operations, respectively. In addition, regulator 1 optionally includes ports for connecting both high and low pressure instruments to HPG and LPG (see FIG. 2), respectively (eg, for displaying tank pressure and output pressure, respectively). .

  During operation, the high pressure input opening 11 exchanges air / gas flow with a pressurized air / gas source (such as contained in a connected high pressure air / gas cylinder), for example. 1 is preferably attached to a portable high pressure air / gas cylinder. So attached to the cylinder (and, for example, the regulator is otherwise properly adjusted or adjusted), and the regulator's internal chambers or ports (high pressure chamber 61 and low pressure chamber 59, respectively) are pressurized. Sometimes, the biasing mechanism (spring) 19 will normally bias the regulator pin 25 against the regulator seat 21 (thus blocking air / gas exchange or flow at the regulator seat). However, when the pressure drops as air / gas escapes from the low pressure chamber 59, such as during use of a device that uses compressed air (eg, when air is evacuated from the low pressure port 57 using a hose), the low pressure chamber The corresponding drop in the internal pressure of the piston reduces the biasing pressure against the first end 39 of the piston 37 so that the Belleville spring 45 overcomes the biasing pressure on the opposite side of the biasing mechanism (or spring) 19. enable. As a result, the regulator pin 25 is pulled axially away from the regulator sheet 21 so that pressurized air (through the opening 23 of the regulator sheet 21) can reenter the low pressure chamber 59 from the high pressure chamber 61. Become. After the pressure threshold is restored in the low pressure chamber 59, air / gas forces act on the piston face (piston first end 39) and the piston assembly counters the force of the Belleville spring 45. Forced to retract, the biasing mechanism (or spring) 19 overcomes the force of such a Belleville spring 45 (with the aid of internal air pressure) and the regular pin 25 sits back on the regulator seat 21 and thus (low pressure chamber) It is possible to stop the exchange of air / gas between the low pressure chamber 59 and the high pressure chamber 61 (by physically blocking the air passage at the opening 23 of the regulator sheet 21 between the high pressure chamber 61 and the high pressure chamber 61).

  In particular, as briefly discussed herein, the amount of air pressure obtained or applied to the low pressure chamber 59 (and thus provided, for example, at the low pressure port (output port) 57 to power the device). An adjustment knob 55 (or other suitable mechanism) is provided so that can be selected by the user. In particular, the user can select the desired output pressure for use with selected compressed air equipment (eg, with specific psi operating requirements) or for other compressed air equipment. This feature is available as follows. To serve this purpose, in some embodiments of the regulator, such as the described embodiment, a pressure meter (the actual meter is not shown) to allow accurate and quick output pressure selection. Port / passage 111 is provided. More specifically, adjusting the axial position of the regulator (inner piston) 49 (as desired) may result in more or less pressure and / or volume of air / gas (through the opening 23). ) The pin seat “PS” can be passed to a greater or lesser extent against the narrow and elongated first end 27 of the regulator pin 25 and thus the biasing mechanism (spring) 19 so that it can pass through the regulator seat 21. By biasing, the relative balance (or difference) of opposing forces provided by the biasing mechanism (spring) 19 and the Belleville spring 45 is changed. In particular, this is accomplished by effectively holding the opening 23 in the open state for a longer or shorter period of time, respectively, and thus adjusting the pressure and / or volume supplied (eg, to some extent, the opening The longer the open state of 23 is maintained, the greater the pressure and / or volume of air / gas supplied to the low pressure chamber 59 and hence the low pressure port (output port) 57.

  In particular, in some embodiments, selectable safety features are added to the regulator. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a safety opening SA that is a hole in the main regulator body 31 is provided. In the depicted position (possibly because the regulator seat 21 is not functioning and the full high pressure of the cylinder is urging the piston 37 upwards), because of the dangerous high pressure of the regulator, the piston 37 is only a certain distance away. If proceeding upward or outward (relative to the main regulator body 31), the safety opening SA is exposed to air (usually several illustrated O-rings located on the piston 37 block the atmosphere). ), The pressurized gas contained in the regulator is at least partially evacuated, thus minimizing or at least reducing the potential adverse effects of, for example, failure of the regulator components. As another safety feature, some embodiments of the regulator 1 can be used without screwing the high-pressure air / gas supply (or high-pressure chamber 61) to the atmosphere (screwed on itself or like a through bolt). It is designed so that the regulator cap 53 (connected to the main regulator body by other mechanical means) can be removed. In this regard, if the regulator cap 53 is removed in such an embodiment, the regulator pin 25 is automatically biased against the regulator seat 21 (by a biasing mechanism (spring) 19 acting on the pin bottom 29). And block the air / gas passage (by physically closing the opening 23). In addition to providing a safety advantage, such features can be used to repair some regulator components or without requiring the high pressure air / gas supply to be emptied or depressurized. In order to replace the Belleville spring 45, it is possible to remove the regulator cap. As an additional safety feature, an opening 71 is provided in the “neck” of the cartridge body 3 (the opening 71 is similarly connected to the high voltage input opening 11). When so arranged, the opening 71 is normally sealed (using an O-ring) when the regulator 1 is attached to the high pressure cylinder, but the regulator 1 is removed from the cylinder that was accidentally pressurized by the user. If it begins to turn off, pressurized air / gas can be discharged from the opening 71 at a relatively controlled and safe rate, and thus (eg, without using such features). As dangerous as possible (as compared to unscrewing the regulator from the high pressure source).

  In the most preferred embodiment (whether or not all other features described herein are used), the high pressure chamber, low pressure chamber, piston assembly and cartridge assembly are each generally (although not necessarily entirely or completely) ) The regulator 1 is specially configured so that they are aligned on the same axis. Providing such a configuration minimizes the regulator mounting space or profile, thus allowing the use of smaller sized regulators. In addition, such regulators (with some or most parts arranged generally or completely coaxially as described and described) use smaller regulator bodies with simple shapes. So the resulting regulator is (generally) lighter and tends to be less disturbing, for example during construction or in a similar environment. Furthermore, because of the streamlined design, there are fewer parts to fail, break or maintain, and the regulator parts are often more easily machined (as desired) or during the manufacturing process. Can be cast (and, for example, the regulator body can be more easily drilled or drilled compared to conventional regulator designs).

  Many other features, modifications and improvements will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above is disclosed. Accordingly, such features, modifications, and improvements are considered part of this invention without limitation imposed by the embodiments described herein. Moreover, any words, terms, phrases, features, examples, embodiments, or parts or combinations thereof, used herein to describe or illustrate an embodiment, are expressly uniquely defined as Or, unless expressly stated otherwise as limiting, it is not intended that the scope of the invention be narrowed differently than determined for the ordinary meaning of the terms of the claims.

Claims (11)

A first end for screwing into the high pressure cylinder and a second end for screwing into the main regulator body, the first end having a high pressure input opening for exchanging gas flow with the high pressure cylinder. And the second end has a regulator sheet opening for holding the regulator sheet, and further includes a central opening disposed between the regulator sheet opening and the high-voltage input opening, and the central opening. An urging mechanism that is seated in a portion, a regulator seat that is disposed in the regulator seat opening and has a through hole in the center, and a portion is disposed in the center opening, A regulator pin sandwiched between an urging mechanism and the regulator sheet, and a through hole of the regulator sheet are disposed through the through hole. A first end of the regulator pin that can be biased in both directions along the axial direction, and contact with the biasing mechanism so as to apply a force that biases the biasing mechanism in the opposite direction with respect to the regulator pin; A cartridge body including a second end of the regulator pin to
A main regulator body comprising: a cartridge chamber for screwing the cartridge body; and a piston opening connected to the cartridge chamber for gas flow and spaced axially from the cartridge chamber;
A first portion that is at least partially disposed within the piston opening, is axially movable within the piston opening, and has a first outer diameter and a second outer portion that is smaller than the first outer diameter; A vertically long body including a second portion having a diameter, a shoulder extending laterally near the connecting portion of the first portion and the second portion, and adjusting to an appropriate position along the axial direction A piston with a central opening to hold a possible adjustment mechanism;
A plurality of Belleville springs disposed in the second portion of the piston along an axial direction and in contact with the shoulder to transmit force;
With
The main regulator body further has an upper threaded portion that is screwed into a regulator cap, and the regulator cap includes the Belleville spring when the main regulator body is screwed in, and is force against the shoulder portion. In contact with the Belleville spring so that can be transmitted,
further,
Is connected to the adjustment mechanism and selectively moves the adjustment mechanism in both directions along the axial direction within the piston, so that the selected position in the axial direction relative to the first end of the regulator pin. An adjustment knob that is adjustable to selectively bias the pin seat portion of the adjustment mechanism;
A low pressure port disposed in the main regulator body and capable of exchanging gas flow with the low pressure chamber;
With
The low pressure chamber can further selectively exchange a gas flow with the high pressure chamber,
The high-pressure chamber is disposed adjacent to a second end of the cartridge body, or a part thereof is formed at the second end;
The low pressure chamber is separated from the high pressure chamber by the regulator sheet from the fluid / gas flow;
The regulator pin is movable in both directions along the axial direction, and passes or stops gas flowing between the high pressure chamber and the low pressure chamber via a through hole of the regulator sheet,
The cartridge body, the main regulator body, the piston, the low pressure chamber, and the high pressure chamber are arranged substantially coaxially with respect to each other;
A regulator characterized by that.   The regulator according to claim 1, wherein the high-pressure input opening, the central opening, and the high-pressure chamber constitute a gas flow path to the low-pressure chamber.   The regulator according to claim 2, wherein the high-pressure input opening is disposed substantially on an axis with respect to a longitudinal axis of the piston.   The regulator according to claim 3, wherein the low-pressure chamber defines a space between at least one surface of the piston opening and at least one surface of the first portion of the piston.   The regulator according to claim 4, further comprising a neck or a constriction that connects the high-pressure chamber and the low-pressure chamber to allow gas to flow between the high-pressure chamber and the low-pressure chamber.   6. The regulator of claim 5, wherein a first end of the regulator pin extends through the neck or constriction into the low pressure chamber and contacts the first end of the adjustment mechanism.   The regulator according to claim 6, wherein the operation of the adjustment knob adjusts the pressure of the Belleville spring in the piston.   In order to display the pressure contained in the low-pressure chamber for outputting from the low-pressure port, a measuring instrument port for connecting a display measuring instrument in a state where the gas flow is exchanged with the low-pressure port is provided. The regulator according to any one of claims 1 to 7.   9. The regulator cap can be removed without substantially depressurizing the high pressure cylinder while the regulator is attached to a pressurized high pressure cylinder. Regulator described in 1.   2. The belleville spring is selectively removed to replace another type, or another spring bias or strength rating spring, to vary the psi output of the regulator according to the desired selected end use. 10. The regulator according to any one of 9 above.   11. The variable psi output is selected from the group consisting of a maximum output, a predetermined range of psi outputs, a minimum psi output, or a combination of output variables listed herein. regulator.

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