JPS61258959A - Gas fuel feeder - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] This bulletin contains application data before electronic filing, so abstract data is not recorded.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates generally to refueling systems for vehicles or other equipment refueled with low pressure natural gas or other hydrocarbon gas fuels. More specifically, the present invention provides a method for filtering gas fuel and storing a certain amount of gas fuel.
or the use of high surface area sorbents (adsorbents and/or adsorbents) for both purposes and gas compression equipment hermetically sealed to pressurize the gaseous fuel to a predetermined pressure. The present invention relates to such a refueling device as it is desirable to use.

(Prior art and its problems) The use of conventional fuels (gasoline and diesel fuel) in internal combustion engine vehicles for many years has the potential to reduce operating costs, the fuel efficiency of such vehicles and the impact of vehicle emissions on the outside world. There has been growing concern about the harmful effects. Because of this interest, great emphasis has been placed on developing alternatives to traditional vehicle fuels such as 7. One such emphasis is on developing vehicles that are fueled by natural gas or other methane gas fuels, whether as the sole fuel or as one of the fuels in a dual fuel system. Ta. As a result, vehicles using such fuels have been developed and are currently in use on a relatively limited scale, both domestically and internationally. In order to provide such a gas refueling vehicle with an affordable refueling range, previously
Under very high pressure generally around 2000-3000psi
It was necessary to store gaseous fuel inside the vehicle at pressures in the range of 1-5 g. The actual fuel storage capacity of such vehicles was limited due to the weight ratio. Thus, only by compressing gaseous fuel to such high pressure could the in-vehicle fuel storage capacity of such vehicles be increased.

One of the drawbacks of the compressed gas fuel systems described above has been that they require complex and relatively expensive refueling equipment to compress the fuel to such high pressures. Therefore, such a refueling device completely eliminates the possibility of refueling a vehicle from a user's home natural gas supply system, as it is economically unrealistic. Furthermore, such high pressure equipment has often been perceived by the general public to be much more dangerous than low pressure equipment. For example, the general public is already accustomed to refrigerant pressures in domestic refrigerant systems in the range of approximately 200 psig and does not consider such low pressures to be objectionable.

An alternative to the fuel storage and vehicle refueling range issues discussed above is to store vehicle fuel in liquid form, typically at or near atmospheric pressure, so that a sufficient amount of fuel can be delivered to the vehicle and is affordable. The objective was to be able to provide a refueling range. However, such liquefied gas storage methods also require extraordinarily complex and expensive cryogenic equipment both on-board and at the refueling station to establish and maintain the required low gas temperatures. It has been found to be disadvantageous because of

However, it has been discovered that the use of high surface area adsorbents in fixed installations in non-military gaseous fuel storage methods can significantly increase fuel storage at relatively low pressures. Such adsorbents are typically used to store various (liquefied) hydrocarbon gases, such as zeolites, activated carbon, etc. US Pat. No. 2,714,730 uses adsorbents to increase the fuel storage capacity of stationary systems. The method and equipment for this are clarified.

However, despite considerable and extensive research and development efforts in the field of gas-fueled vehicles, the application of sorbent fuel storage technology to in-vehicle fuel storage systems and their replenishment systems remains limited. To date, no applications have been filed for natural gas fuel storage or replenishment systems. In fact, the compressed natural gas and liquefied natural gas systems described above have generally been considered to be two systems that can only be used for natural gas powered vehicles.

Therefore, there is a need for a practical and inexpensive refueling system that can store reasonable quantities of on-board fuel at relatively low pressures and that allows users to refuel such vehicles into the domestic natural gas supply system. This is what happened.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, a device for supplying fuel to a gas fuel consuming device, such as a vehicle, a lawn mower, or a snowplow, is coupled and mounted in fluid communication with a gas fuel supply source to compress the fuel. consisting of means for increasing the pressure to a predetermined value, cooling means for reducing the temperature of the compressed gaseous fuel, and evacuation means removably connected and attached to the gaseous fuel consuming device. . The gaseous fuel supply system simultaneously includes sorption filter means for substantially removing impurities and predetermined fuel components from the fuel and sorption storage means for sorptionally storing a quantity of the previously compressed gaseous fuel; The compressed gaseous fuel is either from the sorption storage means or, if such storage means is incorporated, from the compression means by traversing the storage means.

Preferably, it incorporates an automatic control device that allows the fuel to be supplied to the fuel consuming device via the exhaust means. “Sorptive” and “Sorptive” as referred to herein
The term is used to apply to adsorption and/or absorption.

In a preferred embodiment, the pressure of the compressed gas fuel supplied to the fuel consumer is typically approximately 200 to 400 psi.
in the range of g. Further, the compression means preferably comprises one or more hermetically sealed gas compressors for compressing the gaseous fuel to such pressure, the compressors being typically found in refrigeration equipment. It is preferable to use a gas compressor type.

One of the primary objects of the present invention is to provide a refueling device that is considerably cheaper to manufacture than those of the prior art, is compact and modular, and can be connected to a user's home natural gas or other gas fuel supply system. The goal is to provide the following. Another objective is to provide such a device that is convenient to consume, safe and inexpensive to operate and use.

Vehicles of the type referred to herein are as disclosed and described in the patent application entitled "Hydrocarbon Gas Fuel Storage System and Vehicle Engine System." Such a vehicle and the refueling system illustrated herein are also disclosed in a patent application entitled "Hydrocarbon Gas Fuel Storage System and Engine System for Vehicle Body and Associated Refueling System".

Both of the above specifications, which are hereby incorporated by reference, are assigned to the same assignee and filed on the same date as the present application.

Additional objects, advantages, and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

(Embodiment) FIGS. 1 to 6 show an embodiment of the refueling device according to the present invention for the purpose of illustration.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the principles of the present invention are equally applicable to gaseous refueling systems other than the specific implementation shown in the drawings.

Referring to FIG. 1, a refueling module or device 10 is enclosed by a housing 12 consisting of a looper portion 14 through which air can flow and a control panel 16 located above the looper portion 14. It is desirable that the

Initially, although the control panel 16 is located on the housing 12 in the exemplary replenishment device, the present invention also contemplates the case of a remote control panel mounted remotely from the replenishment module, such as within the user's home. Please note that

A flexible outlet tube 20 with a suitable connector 22 is attached to its free end and is removably connected to a vehicle body or other gaseous fuel consuming device for discharging gaseous fuel in that direction. As discussed in more detail below, the present exemplary replenishment device 10 is preferably configured to be housed in a small, unobtrusive, modular package and is operated from a common household power system (e.g., a 110-230 volt power supply). The purpose is to provide a convenient and easy-to-operate system for refueling gas-powered vehicles or other devices at home. Therefore, those skilled in the art should
It will be readily appreciated that the principles of the invention are equally applicable to larger types of refueling modules, such as those that can be installed commercially and, for example, refuel a large number of vehicles at the same time. Dew.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, perspective and schematic views of refueling module 10 are generally illustrated.

Refueling module 10 is configured with an inlet 28 adapted to connect to gaseous fuel supply system 30 by conventional connector arrangements of a type well known to those skilled in the art. Gas fuel supply system 301 preferably comprises a natural gas supply system such as that commonly found in many domestic as well as commercial facilities. The illustrated replenishment module 10 also includes a pair of manual shutoff valves 32 for shutting off the module during extended periods of non-use or for isolating the module from the supply system 30 for maintenance or repair of the module. It is desirable to do so.

The gaseous fuel supplied from the supply system 30 is typically under a pressure of e.g. 42 inlets 4
It is desirable to have the flow within 0. A variety of drying filters may be used to remove water vapor or other moisture from the incoming gaseous fuel, including sorbents such as activated carbon, zeolite materials, silica gel-type materials, or various clays. Dry filter 36
It is desirable to use it as First stage gas compressor 42
compresses the gaseous fuel to increase its pressure to a predetermined desired pressure level. In one of the actual configuration examples (original models) of the present invention, the set gas pressure in the discharge pipe 44 of the first stage gas compressor 42 is generally 5 to 60
It was in the psig range. An extra compressor may be configured within the replenishment module to further compress the gaseous fuel, although the exact pressure in a particular embodiment of the invention will of course depend on the pressure within the exhaust pipe 44. may vary depending on various operating conditions and design factors, such as whether the

Gas fuel flows into the discharge pipe 44 of the first stage gas compressor 42 via a gas cooler 50, which
Preferably, it is a cooling coil over which ambient air is blown by a cooling fan 52.

In the prototype of the replenishment module 10 as actually constructed, the temperature of the gas fuel entering the gas cooler 50 is at most approximately 240 degrees Fahrenheit, and the gas fuel temperature at the exit of the gas cooler 50 is approximately ambient temperature. Although the equal gas cooler 50 is depicted in the drawings as being comprised of the cooling coil arrangement described above, one skilled in the art will recognize that the compressed gas cooler 50 is composed of the compressed gas fuel flowing from the discharge pipe 44 of the first stage gas compressor 42. It will be readily appreciated that other types of heat exchanger devices or cooling means may alternatively be used to reduce the temperature of.

From the gas cooler 50, the compressed gas fuel passes through a lubricant filter and separator 56, an interstage accumulator or pulsation chamber 58, and a check valve 6o, which reduces its pressure to another predetermined pressure barrel. The gas flows into the suction pipe 62 of the second stage gas compressor 64, where it is to be further compressed. Lubricant filter and separator 56 may comprise any number of known filter-type devices adapted to remove lubricating oil or fluid from the gas flow passing therethrough. The lubrication filter and separator 56 serves to return compressor lubricant to the suction pipe 4o of the first stage gas compressor 42 in a manner described in detail below. The pulsation chamber 58 is an accumulator type container, and functions to attenuate gas pressure surging and pulsation from the first stage compressor 42.

Unexpectedly, hermetically sealed gas compressors of the type commonly used in refrigeration systems are ideally suited for use as the first and second stage compressors described above.

It was discovered that Such compressors are inexpensive, durable, and readily available as stock items. It will be appreciated that those skilled in the art will readily understand that other compressors can be used instead. The second stage gas compressor 64 further compresses the previously compressed gaseous fuel to a pressure in the range of approximately 100 to 400 psig, with a discharge pressure of approximately 300 psig.
~350 pBig is desirable. It goes without saying that the exact discharge pressure of the second stage gas compressor 64 depends on the pressure within the discharge pipe 66. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a single two-stage compressor, or even a single single-stage compressor, can replace the two compressors 42 and 64 to compress the gaseous fuel to a predetermined pressure. Needless to say, it will be easy to understand. In such cases, a single two-stage compressor is preferably provided with suitable inlets and outlets for communicating the gas cooler 50 between the stages. If instead a single, single stage compressor stage is used, the gas cooler 50 would be connected to the discharge side of such a compressor.

From the discharge pipe 66 of the second stage gas compressor 64, the compressed gas fuel enters a gas cooler where it is cooled again from its maximum temperature of approximately 240 degrees Fahrenheit to approximately ambient temperature at the outlet of the gas cooler. It is desirable to flow back through 50 minutes. The cooled and compressed gaseous fuel then transfers compressor lubricant to the inlet 62 of the second stage gas compressor 64, generally similar to the lubrication filter and separator 56 previously described, and as described in more detail below. It will flow through a second lubricant filter and separator 68, which performs the same role of returning the lubricant.

Optical moisture removal means can be configured downstream of the lubricant filter and separator 68, since at ambient temperatures most gaseous fuels can contain vaporized or entrained lubricant moisture. It goes without saying that such a moisture removal means can be selected if it is considered desirable or necessary. Two alternative embodiments of optional moisture removal means are shown in Figures 5A and 5B and are discussed in detail below.

The previously cooled and compressed gaseous fuel then preferably flows through check valve 70 and into one or more filters 72 . The sorption filter 72 preferably constitutes a chamber containing a sorbent such as zeolite, activated carbon, silica gel or various clays. The sorbent filter 72 serves to remove any residual compressor lubricant and other materials, and preferably also serves to remove so-called "heavy" components of the gaseous fuel.

Generally speaking, such heavy components constitute propane and other components that are heavier than methane. The purpose of such heavy components is
storage tank capacity to sorbently store the components of the gaseous fuel for which the vehicle engine or other fuel consuming device is designed. From the sorbent filter 72, the compressed gaseous fuel flows through a check valve 76 and then into an input lower B for one or more optional sorption storage vessels 82; into the replenishment module exhaust system 86 . The fuel flow path is dependent on the operation of a control system (described below) that automatically opens and closes various solenoids in response to the various gas pressures in the system bladders.

Note that the attachment of sorption storage vessel 82 is optional, but desirable. Eliminate the need for sorbent storage tanks (and their associated control equipment) entirely, or provide an even cheaper refueling system according to the invention that incorporates a sorbent-free storage tank therein. be able to.

If the outlet pipe 20 is removed from a vehicle or other gaseous fuel consuming device and the gas pressure within the sorbent reservoir 82 is below a predetermined pressure level, the compressed gaseous fuel will be discharged from the outlet lower 8 and preferably from the electric solenoid. It will flow through valve 80 and refill the sorbent container. Such refilling of the storage container 82 will occur if the outlet pipe 20 is still connected to the vehicle storage system 100 and the pressure within the vehicle storage container or tank is at or above a predetermined pressure level of approximately 300-350 p61g. The same thing will happen if there is. Alternatively, if the pressure in the vehicle's storage tank is below a predetermined pressure, the control system C (described below) directs the compressed gas fuel to the electric solenoid valve 9.
0 in the outlet pipe 20 or the connector device 2
Preferably, it flows into a manual drain valve 96 that is incorporated within 2. A check valve 101 is preferably configured within the vehicle's storage system 100 to prevent gaseous fuel from returning to the refueling system.

A discharge line 88 is provided downstream of the solenoid valve 90 for discharging compressed gaseous fuel from the outlet line 20 when the connector 22 is removed from the vehicle body or other gaseous fuel consuming device after a refueling operation is completed. It is desirable to do so. As discussed in more detail below, a preferred control system automatically causes the opening of the electric solenoid valve 94 to release such discharged compressed gas fuel into the receiving chamber or container 98.

- Whenever the pressure inside the outlet pipe 20 drops to a sufficiently low level, the solenoid valve 94 closes and the storage chamber 98
is isolated between the solenoid valve and check valve 48. When the gas compressor is later activated, the gaseous fuel in the storage chamber 98 flows through the check valve 48 into the suction pipe 40 of the first stage gas compressor 42 . Employing the above-described automatic dispensing system for the outlet tube 20 is optional, but may be configured within the refueling module system to reduce the pressure within the outlet tube 20 and thereby facilitate removal of the connector 22. desirable. However, the manual vent valve 96 is a three-way manual control station that also allows the outlet tube 20 to be manually vented directly to atmosphere or other gas collection or treatment means so that the operator can easily remove the connector 22. Note that it is desirable that

The refueling module 10 simultaneously opens in response to an unacceptably high gas pressure level upstream of the check valve 38 and vents such gas pressure by venting the gas to the atmosphere via the atmospheric vent 5. It is desirable that a relief valve 37 is also configured. Similarly, a pressure relief valve 53 is provided on the discharge side 44 of the first stage gas compressor 42 and a pressure relief valve 73 is provided at the outlet of the adsorbent filter 72. The pressure relief valves 53.73 open in response to undesirably high gas pressures, releasing gaseous fuel into their respective vent lines 55.7.
5 and an atmosphere vent 25 to release the pressure.

A lubricant filter and separator 56 is installed on the discharge side of the first stage gas compressor 42 to collect the compressor lubricant from the compressed gas fuel 42 and transfer it to the return line 57 and electric solenoid 9.
The gas is returned to the suction pipe 40 of the first stage gas compressor 42 via the valve 61. Similarly, a lubricant filter and separator 68 are installed to collect the compressor lubricant and pass it through a return line 69 and an electric solenoid valve 71 to the suction line 62 of the second stage gas compressor.
to return to. Since it is well known that it is difficult to start or operate a gas compressor without first balancing the pressure between the suction and discharge sides of the compressor, the control system described below must be installed at the same time. Solenoid 9 valve 61
．． 71 stays closed whenever the first and second stage gas compressors 42.64 are activated, and opens whenever the first and second stage gas compressors 42.46 stop operating. . Like this pressure solenoid 9 valve 61.71
opens to allow fluid communication between the suction and discharge pipes of each of those gas compressors, balancing gas pressure across the compressors so that they can start immediately when the compressors are turned on again. becomes possible. Furthermore, their respective return piping 5 is provided between the suction side and the discharge side of each compressor.
Sufficient driving force and pressure is created as the gas flows through 7.69 and the collected lubricant is transferred from the separator 56.68 to the respective suction side 40 of the respective gas compressor 42.64.
゜62t＼Forcibly drive.

Referring to FIG. 4, the exemplary sorbent storage vessel 82 has sorbent 82 in contact with gaseous fuel flowing through an inlet 85.
Contains 3. As used herein, the terms "sorbent" and "sorbent" are intended to refer to adsorption and/or absorption. The inlet 85 of the sorption storage container 82 incorporates an inlet filter 87, which may be a screen mesh type filter, a thread type filter,
Alternatively, it may consist of other filters known in the art that are suitable for substantially preventing the introduction of particles and other impurities into the sorbent 83.

The sorbent 83 is, for example, activated carbon, zeolite compound,
It is composed of any of a range of sorbents such as silica gel and various clays. Such sorbents may be formed of R-lets, spheres, particles or other suitable structures such that the surface area of the sorbent can be optimized to maximize the amount of gaseous fuel adsorbed and/or absorbed. It can take a form.

The present invention assumes a case where a liquid adsorbent, such as an adsorbent coated with a liquid, is used. The sorbent filter 72 is constructed of a similar sorbent material and has a tank-shaped structure and shape somewhat similar to that shown in FIG. 4 for the sorbent reservoir 82. (Except where the filter 72 has separate inlets and outlets.) Columbia grade 9LXC activated carbon is used as a sorbent in an actual constructed prototype of the example refueling module 10. Although it has been and is currently generally considered to be the preferred sorbent for sorbent filter 72 and sorbent reservoir 82, other sorbents may be used instead. Examples of such sorbents include:

It should be noted that it has been discovered that it is advantageous to activate the desired carbon sorbent prior to using the refueling module 10. In particular, the sorbent first packs as much as possible into the sorbent filter 72 and sorbent reservoir 82, and each filter or reservoir is evacuated. Each filter or storage container is then placed in an oven or heated and then evacuated again.

As mentioned above, most gaseous fuels can contain vaporized or other entrained lubricants or liquid materials even at ambient temperatures.

Therefore, optional moisture removal means can be constructed downstream of the lubricant filter and separator 68 if found necessary or desirable. One such optional moisture removal means is shown schematically in Figure 5A. The moisture removal system 110 of the embodiment is operationally similar to the conventional refrigeration system 1.
14 and includes a heat exchanger 112 mounted to cool the gaseous fuel so that vaporized or entrained lubricants or other liquids are precipitated from the gaseous fuel stream.

The heat exchanger 112 defines a gas population 116 and a gas outlet 118 through which the refrigerant from the refrigeration system 114 is conveyed. The refrigerant from the refrigeration system 114 and the gaseous fuel are isolated from each other in a tube heat exchanger 1.12 (or other suitable heat transfer device). When the gas fuel is cooled, lubricants and other liquids are deposited and drained into the drain pipe 1.
20 and check valve 122, the heat exchanger 112 is also conveyed and then returned to the suction side of one of the gas compressors or conveyed to suitable processing means.

Another optional moisture removal means is schematically shown in FIG. 5B. An example alternative moisture removal system 130 includes:
Generally, a vortex device 132 with a gas inlet 134 and a gas outlet 136 is provided.

Devices such as vortex devices are well known to those skilled in the art;
A vortex or other generally swirling flow path is provided to the compressed gaseous fuel flowing therethrough to cool the fuel and to allow separation of lubricants and other entrained liquids. An example of such a vortex separator is the so-called "vortex tube" manufactured and sold by Cincinnati Votex Corporation (Ohio).

The inclusion of a moisture removal system 110 or 130 or one of other suitable moisture removal devices within the refueling module 10 is optional, but may reduce the degree of contamination of the sorbent filter 72 and reduce the amount of water inside it. It may be desirable or necessary to extend the useful life of the sorbent. The operation of the example replenishment module 10 is best depicted in the schematic flow diagram of FIG. In order to discharge the gaseous fuel into the refueling module 10 or into the on-board storage system 100, the outlet pipe 20 is connected to the vehicle storage system by connecting the connector device 22, the manual discharge valve 96 is opened, and the refueling module is opened. Start.

(described below) When the replenishment module 10 starts, the solenoid valve 80
．． 90 opens and solenoid 9 valve 94 closes.

The pressurized gaseous fuel in the sorbent storage vessel 82 is then discharged to the vehicle storage system 100 via the outlet pipe 10. At the same time, a timer device (described below) is started and activated for a predetermined period of time. At the end of this period, the pressures in storage vessel 82 and vehicle storage system 100 are approximately equal, solenoid valve 80 is closed, compressor 42.64 is started, and cooling fan 5 is turned on.
2 starts, solenoid valve 34 opens and solenoid 9 valve 61.71°94 closes.

Compressors 42, 64 and cooling fan 52 are operated until the pressure within vehicle storage system 100 is increased to a predetermined pressure level. When a predetermined pressure level is reached in the vehicle storage system, pressure switch 92 closes solenoid valve 90 and opens solenoid valve 80, thereby refilling storage containers 82 and pressurizing them to their predetermined pressure level. enable.

The control system prioritizes the function of the replenishment module such that the storage containers 82 are filled to their predetermined levels and the vehicle storage system 100 receives gas fuel first from the storage containers and then from the gas compressor 42.64. Please note that this is desirable. If the refueling module is connected to the vehicle storage system and the storage container 82 is not pressurized to the predetermined pressure, gaseous fuel will pass by the storage container and enter the vehicle storage system first. supply and then refill the storage container. When a predetermined pressure is achieved in the storage container 82, the pressure switch 84 switches the solenoid 9 valve 34.8.
0, and the compressor 42, 64 and cooling fan 52 are deactivated. At the same time, the pressure switch 84 opens the solenoid valves 61.71 to equalize the gas fuel pressures on the suction and discharge sides of their respective gas compressors. As described above, the compressed gas fuel flows from the discharge side to the suction side of the first stage gas compressor 42, and at the same time, the compressor lubricant sorbed in the lubricant filter and separator 56 is transferred to the first stage gas compressor 42 via the recovery pipe 57. Forced into the suction side 40 of the stage gas compressor. Similarly, when the solenoid valve 71 opens, the collected compressor lubricant is forced into the suction side 62 of the second stage gas compressor 64 via the collector filter and separator 68 as well as the collection line 69.

When the refueling system is closed, pressure switch 92 causes solenoid 9 valve 94 to open, discharging gaseous fuel from outlet line 20 into storage chamber 98, thereby allowing the outlet line to be easily disconnected.

Pressure switch 74 can be optionally configured and set to a slightly higher pressure level than the pressure at pressure switch 92.84. Pressure switch 74 can thus function as part of a safety shut-off system that automatically shuts off the entire replenishment module system in the event that an unacceptably high gas pressure level exists therein. Further safety features include pressure relief valve 37.
゜53.73 is an optional pressure switch 73 (which can be set to a pressure slightly higher than the current pressure if configured, and automatically adjusts the system pressure if the pressure continues to increase after the system has stopped working). The role is to let the target escape.

FIG. 6 shows an example of an electrical control system installed to cause the replenishment module to perform the functions described above. It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other control systems, whether electrical or other types, may be used instead. To begin operation of the replenishment module 10, the on-off breaker switch 154 is activated.
is closed. The closing action of the on-off switch illuminates the red indicator lamp R, indicating that the gas compressor is not operating, and also illuminates the green indicator lamp G, indicating that the sorbent reservoir 82 is filled. Indicates that they are pressurized to a predetermined level.

To discharge gas fuel from the refueling module 10 to the vehicle storage system 100, the outlet pipe 20 is connected to the vehicle storage system via the connector 22, the manual discharge valve 96 is opened, the vehicle fill switch 156 is closed, and the indicator lamp G is turned on. Workers will keep it closed and tile it until it is shut off. When fill switch 156 closes, relay R1 is energized, closing contacts R1α, R1b and opening contact R1c (thereby opening solenoid valve 90
．． 80 is opened, solenoid valve 94 is closed, and timer T
Start 1. The compressed gas fuel in the collecting agent storage container 82 is then allowed to be discharged into the vehicle storage system 100 via the outlet pipe 20. When the pressure in the collecting agent storage container 82 decreases, the pressure switch 84 is first closed to shut off the indicator lamp G and energize the relay R2, closing its contacts R2α, R2h, and R2c. At this time,
The fill switch 156 will be released to its open position because both contacts R1α, R2α are closed.

After a predetermined time period set by timer T1, the pressures in storage vessel 82 and storage vessel 100 become approximately equal, and timer T1 energizes compressor relay C by closing its contact T1α and opening T115. This closes solenoid valve 80 and disconnects storage vessel 82. Relay C
closes its contacts Cα and Cb and starts the cooling fan 52 and compressor 42.64. At the same time (to indicate that the compressor and fan are running) the amber indicator light A
It is preferable that the light is turned on and relay R5 is energized.

The energized relay R5 opens the contact 5α, thus blocking the indicator lamp R.

The compressor 42,64 continues to operate until the pressure in the storage system is increased to a predetermined pressure level and the solenoid valve 90 is closed by opening the pressure switch 92. When the pressure switch 92 is opened, it similarly operates the relay R4, and its contact R4α.

Close R4b and open R2O.

- When the sputum storage tank 82 is refilled to its predetermined pressure, the pressure switch 84 is opened again, deenergizing relay R2 and illuminating the indicator /ZG.

When relay R2 is de-energized, contacts R2α and R2h are opened, so that relay R1 is de-energized and contact R2b is opened.

When relay R1 is deenergized, contacts R1α and RIb are opened, the system is restored, timer T1 is deenergized, and solenoid valve 80 is closed. As a result, contacts T1α open simultaneously, deenergizing relay C (thus stopping compressor and cooling fan activity) and opening normally open solenoid valve 61.71 to reduce pressure across the compressor. Equalize and push the compressor lubricant back to its suction side. Similarly, solenoid 9 valve 94 opens to transfer gaseous fuel to outlet pipe 2.
0 into the storage chamber 98.

Note that even if power is interrupted during a refueling operation for any reason, the fill switch 156 must be pressed again to restore refueling.

Similarly, if the system becomes too pressurized for any reason, the optional pressure switch 73 automatically shuts down the system as described above.

In some cases, refilling of storage tank 82 can be prevented by shutting off or terminating the pressure in storage system 100 before it reaches a predetermined pressure that causes pressure switch 92 to open. An example of such a case is when the user needs the vehicle before the refueling operation is complete. In such a case, the control system will refill storage tanks 82 other than those described above to complete the refueling operation.

To refill the storage container, operation of the refueling module is initiated by closing the above-mentioned on-off breaker switch 154, thus activating indicator lamp R and relay R2 by turning on pressure switch 84. , energize.

As a result, contacts R2α=R2b, R2c are closed. Contacts R3α, R3C are activated by pressing the optional storage tank fill switch 160 and energizing relay R3.
, R3d and open contacts R3,6. This causes optional switch 160 to be released to its open position, opening solenoid valve 80 and starting the compressor and cooling fan via relay C and its contacts Cα. At the same time, contact ch is closed, relay R5 is energized, and contact R5α is opened, so that lamp A is lit and lamp R is cut off. The compressor and cooling fan then continue to operate until the pressure in storage tank 82 reaches its predetermined level and the system is automatically shut off by pressure switch 84 and the remaining procedures described above. Note that if power is interrupted during refilling of storage tank 82, compressor and fan activity ceases, thus closing solenoid valve 80. Option switch 160 must be pressed again to resume operation. Note that switch 160 is optional and will function as described above if configured. Finally, stop switch 17
Note also that 0 is provided for manually shutting down the system if it is necessary or desirable to do so.

From the foregoing, embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described. From the above discussion, a person skilled in the art would understand that
It will be readily understood that various changes, modifications, and changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a perspective overall view of an example of a gas refueling device according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the example of a gas refueling device of FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic flow diagram of the example refueling device of FIG. 1, and FIG. A section cut away to show the inside. FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of an optional refrigeration system configured in the system for removing moisture from gaseous fuel; FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of yet another optional moisture removal system comprised of a vortex type refrigeration system 6 is a schematic diagram of a preferred electrical control system for the refueling system of FIG. 1; FIG. 10... Fuel supply module 14... Louver 16.
...Control panel 12...Housing 28...
Inlet 30... Gas fuel supply system 32.
...Hand it! IS valve disconnection 38...Check valve 34.
94... Solenoid valve 36... Dry filter 42... First stage gas compressor 44... Discharge pipe 50.
... Gas cooler 56 ... Separator 64 ... Second stage gas compressor 78 ... Outlet 82 ... Storage container
100...Storage system 96...Manual discharge valve
98...Containment room 5...Vent (5 people outside)

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. An apparatus for supplying gaseous fuel to a gaseous fuel consuming device, comprising: an inlet means mounted in fluid communication with a gaseous fuel supply source; and an inlet means for compressing the gaseous fuel to increase its pressure. a cooling means for lowering the temperature of the compressed gas fuel; and a means for storing a predetermined amount of the compressed gas fuel, and a sorbent for adsorbing the predetermined amount of the compressed gas fuel. a built-in storage means and removably connected to the gaseous fuel consuming device for selectively supplying the compressed gaseous fuel thereto; and a discharge means mounted for supplying the compressed gas fuel to the device by bypass. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pressure of the compressed gas fuel supplied to the gas fuel consumer is less than approximately 50 psig. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the maximum pressure of the compressed gas fuel supplied to the gas fuel consumer is in the range of approximately 200 to 400 psig. 4. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the compression means consists of at least one hermetically sealed gas compressor. 5. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the compression means comprises at least one hermetically sealed refrigerant type gas compressor. 6. Control means for the discharge means to supply the compressed gas fuel from the storage means to the device only when the gas fuel pressure in the storage means is at approximately a predetermined pressure level or above. The storage means is characterized in that the gaseous fuel is bypassed to supply the gaseous fuel from the compression means to the device when the gaseous fuel pressure within the storage means falls below the predetermined pressure level. An apparatus according to claim 1. 7. causing the gas compression means to supply the compressed gas fuel to the storage means when the gaseous fuel pressure in the storage means falls below the predetermined pressure level and the evacuation means is disconnected from the device; 7. Device according to claim 6, characterized in that said control means of . 8. The gas fuel pressure within the evacuation means is below the predetermined pressure level, the evacuation means is connected to the device, and the gas fuel pressure therein is approximately equal to or above the second predetermined pressure level. 8. A device according to claim 7, characterized in that it is equipped with control means for causing the compression means to supply the compressed gas fuel in the event of a gaseous combustion. 9. further comprising a sorbent filter means for sorbently removing substantially all materials from the gaseous fuel, except for certain predetermined constituents of the gaseous fuel, after which the gaseous fuel is removed from the fuel consumption. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is supplied to the device or stored by said storage means. 10. The device of claim 1, comprising means for removing moisture from the gaseous fuel, which is then supplied to the fuel consuming device or stored by the storage means. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said moisture removal means constitutes desiccant filter means between said inlet means and said compression means. 12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the moisture removal means further comprises moisture separation means between the cooling means, both the storage means and the discharge means. 13. A fluid pipe through which the discharge means is removably connected to the fuel consumption device to supply the compressed gas fuel thereto, and whether the gas fuel pressure within the fuel consumption device is approximately equal to a predetermined pressure level; Or, if the supply exceeds the above, the supply is stopped, and the compressed gas fuel is discharged from the fluid pipe after the supply is stopped. An apparatus according to claim 1. 14. means for ceasing the operation of the compression means after the gaseous fuel pressure within the storage means is further approximately equal to or above a predetermined level; and the compression means after the compression means has ceased operation; 2. A device according to claim 1, further comprising means for equalizing the gas fuel pressure between the suction and discharge sides of the means. 15. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising accumulator means in fluid communication with the discharge side of the compressor means for damping surging in the pressure of the compressed gaseous fuel. 16. A refueling system for a vehicle or other device to be refueled with a hydrocarbon gas fuel, comprising an inlet means mounted in fluid communication with the gas fuel source, compressing the gas fuel to a predetermined pressure. a hermetically sealed compressor means for increasing the pressure to a maximum pressure level; air cooling means for reducing the temperature of the compressed gaseous fuel; substantially all materials, except for certain constituents of the gaseous fuel, are removed from the gaseous fuel; sorbent filter means for sorption removal; means for supplying the compressed gas fuel to the vehicle or other gas-fueled equipment, selectively to fuel inlet means on the vehicle body or equipment; The refueling device described above is further comprised of a fluid pipe which is detachably attached to the fuel replenishing device, and a discharge means for selectively replenishing fuel to the vehicle or the device. 17. The predetermined maximum pressure level is approximately 100-500p
Claim 1 characterized in that it falls within the scope of sig.
The refueling device according to item 6. 18. consisting of at least one storage container, the storage container containing a sorbent therein and equipped for sorptionally storing a predetermined amount of the compressed gaseous fuel; A refueling device according to claim 16. 19. The refueling device according to claim 18, wherein the sorbent is comprised of an activated carbon adsorbent. 20, the pressure of the compressed gas fuel in the storage container is approximately 20
19. The refueling system of claim 18, wherein the refueling system is within the range of 0 to 400 psig. 21. further comprising control means for supplying the compressed gas fuel from either the compression means or the storage container to the vehicle or device, the control means controlling the initial pressure therein to a second predetermined pressure level; is arranged such that the compressed gas fuel is initially supplied from the storage container to the vehicle or equipment when the storage tank pressure is approximately equal to or exceeds Claim 20, characterized in that the compressor means is arranged to supply compressed gas fuel from the compressor means to the vehicle or device when the compressor means decreases below a third predetermined pressure level.
Refueling device as described in Section. 22. The control means causes the gas fuel pressure within the vehicle or the like to reach approximately a fourth predetermined pressure level after the fluid line is disconnected from the vehicle or the device, or alternatively; the control means is further configured to automatically supply the compressed gas fuel to the storage vessel after the gaseous fuel pressure within the storage vessel has increased to approximately a second predetermined level. 22. The refueling device according to claim 21, wherein the refueling device is installed to stop the activity of the compressor. 23. The refueling device according to claim 22, wherein the sorbent is comprised of an activated carbon adsorbent. 24. The compressor means includes first compression means for initially increasing the pressure of the gaseous fuel, and second stage compression for further increasing the pressure of the pressurized gaseous fuel from the first stage compression means. means and an interstage heat exchanger mounted to reduce the temperature of the pressurized gaseous fuel from the first stage compression means so that it is further pressurized in the second stage compression means; 19. The refueling device according to claim 18, further comprising air cooling means. 25. The refueling module according to claim 24, wherein the first stage and second stage compression means are each constituted by a hermetically sealed refrigerant type gas compressor. 26. Claims characterized in that the compression means comprises a hermetically sealed two-stage compressor, the two-stage compressor being mounted to fluidically connect the interstage exchanger between the stages. Refueling device according to paragraph 24. 27. The refueling device according to claim 18, further comprising moisture separation means between the air cooling means and the sorbent filter means. 28. The moisture removal means comprises means for further cooling the compressed gas fuel below ambient room temperature and separating moisture therefrom, and drainage means for removing the separated moisture from the refrigeration means. 28. The refueling device according to claim 27, characterized in that: 29. The refueling device according to claim 27, wherein the moisture removal means is constituted by a vortex tube device. 30. Lubricant filter means for substantially confining and collecting any compression means lubricant from the compressed gaseous fuel on the discharge side of the hermetically sealed compression means, the lubricant filter means being connected to the suction side of the compression means; comprising a connecting fluid conduit and a control means, the fluid conduit means having a valve means therein, and the control means maintaining the valve means in its closed condition when the compression means is activated. , and causing the valve means to open when the compression means ceases to be active, allowing compressed gas fuel to flow from the discharge side to the suction side of the compression means, substantially equalizing the pressure therebetween; 17. A refueling device according to claim 16, characterized in that the collected lubricant is forced back to the suction side of the compression means. 31. In a natural gas refueling module for a natural gas powered vehicle or other device, an inlet installed for connection to the natural gas supply system and a predetermined maximum pressure of approximately 400 psig or less for compressing the natural gas. at least one hermetically sealed gas compressor having a suction side thereof connected to the inlet for building up to a pressure level; and a discharge side of the compressor for conveying the compressed natural gas therethrough. an air conveying means coupled in fluid communication with the interior of the compressed natural gas and with the heat exchanger for directing ambient air onto the heat exchanger to cool the compressed natural gas therein; an adsorbent filter chamber having an adsorbent therein adapted to adsorb heavy components; and at least one adsorbent chamber for adsorbently storing compressed natural gas from the adsorbent filter at about a first predetermined pressure level. an outlet means for selectively supplying the compressed natural gas to the vehicle, comprising a fuel outlet conduit selectively and removably connected to a fuel inlet of the vehicle, and a natural gas pressure therein; the vehicle is initially refueled from the storage container when the natural gas pressure in the storage container is approximately at or above the second predetermined pressure level; refueling the vehicle from the compressor by bypassing the storage vessel and refueling the vehicle from the compressor, and after the fluid outlet conduit is disconnected from the vehicle fuel inlet, or alternatively, the natural gas pressure within the vehicle is and control means mounted for filling the storage vessel with the compressed natural gas after reaching a predetermined pressure level of the refueling module. 32. Check valve means in the inlet to substantially prevent backflow of natural gas into the supply system, and substantially isolating the remainder of the module from the domestic supply system when the module ceases to be active. 32. A natural gas replenishment module according to claim 31, further comprising normally closed valve means for. 33. a first means for removing moisture from the natural gas from the inlet prior to admitting the natural gas to the compressor; and a first means for removing moisture from the compressed natural gas prior to admitting the compressed natural gas to the adsorbent filter chamber. 32. A natural gas replenishment module according to claim 31, further comprising second means for removing moisture from the natural gas replenishment module. 34. The natural gas as claimed in claim 33, wherein the key moisture removal means comprises a desiccant filter device having an adsorbent therein for adsorbing the moisture from the natural gas. Gas refueling module. 35. The second moisture removal means comprises refrigeration means for cooling the compressed natural gas below ambient temperature and separating the moisture therefrom, and drainage means for removing the separated moisture from the refrigeration means. The third claim characterized in that
The natural gas replenishment module according to item 3. 36. The natural gas refueling module of claim 33, wherein said second moisture removal means comprises a vortex tube arrangement. 37. at least one lubricant filter means on the discharge side of the hermetically sealed compressor for substantially confining collection of compressor lubricant from the compressed natural gas; and at least one lubricant filter means on the suction side of the compressor. a fluid return conduit connected to the compressor, the fluid return conduit defining a solenoid valve therein, and the control means further configured to close the solenoid valve when the compressor is activated; is mounted to close the solenoid valve when the solenoid valve is inactive, the opened solenoid valve allowing compressed natural gas to flow from the discharge side to the suction side of the compressor, substantially equalizing the pressure therebetween; 32. The natural gas replenishment module of claim 31, wherein the collected compressor lubricant is forced to the suction side of the compressor. 38, at least one of the lubricant filter means being disposed substantially adjacent to and substantially to one side of the lowest level of the heat exchanger coil for discharging compressor lubricant therefrom and collecting in the lubricant filter means; 38. The natural gas replenishment module according to claim 37, characterized in that it allows for: 39, withdrawing the gaseous fuel from its source, compressing the gaseous fuel to increase its pressure, cooling the compressed gaseous fuel to reduce its temperature, storing a predetermined amount of the compressed gaseous fuel, and A method for supplying gaseous fuel to a gaseous fuel consumption device, characterized in that it comprises the step of discharging compressed gaseous fuel into the gaseous fuel consumption device for consumption therein. 40, the compressed gas fuel enters the fuel consuming device approximately 500
40. The method of claim 39, wherein the discharge is performed at a pressure below psig. 41. The method according to claim 39, wherein the storage step includes adsorbing the compressed gas fuel with an adsorbent. 42, further comprising the step of filtering the compressed gaseous fuel by passing it through a sorbent before being discharged into the gaseous fuel consuming device. Method. 43, the gaseous fuel being compressed in a gas compression device having an inlet inlet and a discharge outlet, further separating a compressor lubricant from the compressed gaseous fuel substantially on the discharge side of the compressor device; 40. A method as claimed in claim 39, characterized in that the separated compressor lubricant is returned to the suction inlet when the compressor ceases to be active. 44, allowing fluid communication between the discharge outlet and the suction inlet to balance gaseous fuel pressures after the compressor ceases operation, such that a portion of the compressed gaseous fuel is transferred to the discharge side; Claim 4 further comprising the step of flowing the separated compressor lubricant from the compressor to the suction side of the inactive compressor and forcibly returning the separated compressor lubricant to the suction inlet.
The method described in Section 3.