KR100450350B1 - Liquid filling device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a liquid filling device comprising a body having first and second water ports 18 and 44 extending through the body, independent of one another.

First and second water passages are connected to each other therein. The tab 27 is located in the device at a position below the first and second water passages 14 and 16. The bell chamber 33 is located at the outlet of the trap 27 and includes an opening end. After the water passes through the device 10 via any one of the first and second passages 14 and 16 and passes through the tab 27 and the chamber 33, the battery cell 12 Enter The device 10 traps a certain amount of air therein and pressurizes the trapped air at least equal to the head pressure of the water in the apparatus until the electrolyte level in the cell 12 rises to a predetermined level, Water further stops entering the cell 12.

Description

Liquid filling device {LIQUID FILLING DEVICE}

Batteries that require long cycles, or are used in other applications, or contain liquid electrolytes, such as lead acid batteries, require optimal properties that allow the liquid electrolyte contained in each electrolyte cell to maintain a particular electrolyte level. The preferred electrolyte level generally corresponds to the volume of electrolyte in which the battery electrode plate contained in the electrolyte cell needs to be completely submerged. Just as fully immersing the electrode plate of the cell with the electrolyte provides the maximum degree of electrolyte with respect to the electrode plate contact, thereby maximizing when electricity is promoted to the optimum degree within each electrolyte of the cell to cause an electrochemical reaction. Promote battery operation.

In order to maintain the optimum level of battery characteristics, and to maximize battery life characteristics, the battery electrolyte level should be regularly checked and freshly refilled if the level is below the desired level. In an electrolyte cell of a battery, the electrolyte level is not static but dynamic due to evaporation effects, leakage or spillage, and gas leakage when overcharged during the charging process. It is desirable to check the cell electrolyte and make adjustments during and after the charging operation to obtain the best results during cell charging, and such checks and adjustments can ensure the best degree of electrolyte with respect to the electrode connection during the charging process.

Electrolyte cells typically include many electrolyte cells. For example, a conventional 12V electrolyte cell includes six 2V electrolyte cells. Different battery applications require entirely different battery bolts, and therefore different types of batteries. Such batteries have previously been used to store batteries in devices or vehicles powered by batteries in places where the electrolyte is not easily accessible, the electrolyte level is difficult to check, and the electrolyte replacement is difficult and time consuming. Was required.

In such applications many devices have been made in an attempt to address such problems associated with inspecting electrolyte levels and replacing electrolytes. It is preferred that only water is used or circulated to fill the electrolyte cell during the replenishment of the electrolyte to reduce or eliminate the risk of environmental or health risks.

Devices known in the prior art developed to provide electrolyte level control and replenishment include so-called "pass-throuth" devices adapted to be installed in each electrolyte cell of a battery. Such pass-through devices are capable of allowing a flow-throuth passage of electrolyte from the cell when it reaches a given electrolyte level in the cell. It includes i / o ports that are located inside the cell. The pass-through devices are installed in each electrolyte cell of the battery and are hydraulically connected together to allow the electrolyte to circulate continuously through each electrolyte cell while charging each cell up to a predetermined electrolyte level.

The replenishment or filling of the electrolyte is accomplished by supplying water from the supply of water to the first device installed in the first electrolyte cell using the pass-through device until the electrolyte level reaches a predetermined level. While the introduction of water into the charged first cell continues, water mixed with the electrolyte from the charged cell is supplied through each device to other devices equipped in the other cells. The continuous process of delivery of electrolyte continues until the last battery cell reaches a predetermined electrolyte level, and when the electrolyte level of the last cell reaches a predetermined level, the electrolyte is routed away from the battery and the flow of water stops. do.

The disadvantage of a pass-through device is that it passes through the electrolyte cell and finally flows out of the battery, requiring only electrolyte rather than water. In the pass-through device, the electrolyte may pose an environmental or health risk. Also, when other such devices are connected in sequence, the device may not provide the desired concentration of electrolyte in each cell. As the mixed water and electrolyte are circulated through each cell, the electrolyte concentration in each cell is much thinner than the concentration in the next cell in succession, whereby the electrolyte concentration in each cell is different.

Another device designed to provide electrolyte level control and replenishment is a mechanically operated " float-type " device designed to fit into one electrolyte filling port. The device includes a body that fits snugly into the charging port. The plunger extends from the body in the cell and includes a float designed to float in the electrolyte. The body includes a valve machanism located outside the electrolyte cell and is designed to open and close the flow of water through the water inlet in the body of the cell, depending on the position of the plunger and float.

When the electrolyte level in the cell is low and when the plunger and float are lowered a predetermined distance away from the cell, the valve in the body opens to allow water to flow through the cell. When the desired electrolyte level is reached, the plunger and float rise within the cell to a predetermined level, the valve closes and the flow of water to the cell stops. The device also includes a vent passage in the body such that air that replaces water introduced into the cell is moved through the body to replace the water. And the air comes into contact with the atmosphere. These devices are hydraulically connected in parallel with the water supply so that when the cell is installed in each cell and the electrolyte level in each cell is satisfied, the flow of water into the cell is stopped.

Specific examples of the float-type devices described above are designed to be able to charge one or more electrolyte cells from one location. As such a specific example, each device also includes a water outlet such that passage of water through the body is allowed during or after a predetermined electrolyte level is achieved for each cell in which the device is equipped. The device is located inside each electrolyte cell and is hydraulically connected using something like a pipe or tube, allowing the electrolyte to charge each cell with water from one water supply site.

Although such devices can purify water from the water supply through each device without the electrolyte leaving the cell, the device uses mechanically moving parts such as plungers and valve devices, and the like. The use of devices with moving parts in the electrolyte battery cell is undesirable. This is because the operation may be impaired or unpredictable due to failure of such a mechanism or exposure of the battery cell to a highly corrosive environment, sulfuric acid, sulfuric acid vapor, or the like. Sulfuric acid vapor, generator oxygen, and hydrogen generated during operation and charging of the cell are discharged from each cell through the device body and through its passages, thereby directing such corrosive and highly aggressive vapors. The movement member is positioned to be exposed. It is known that prolonged exposure to such steam will eventually reduce the operating life of the device due to component failure.

It is also known that plastics and rubbers used to connect the device and / or the device and the sealing of the cell decompose after exposure to such corrosive liquids and / or vapors. It is known that such degrading materials enter the device, impede the movement of the parts and stick in the open and closed position of the valve, thereby preventing the device from operating. It is also known that the decomposition products of such plastic and rubber parts enter the electrolyte cell and interfere with the efficiency of the electrochemical reactions occurring in the electrolyte cell.

U.S. Patent 4,754,777 discloses another device for replenishing electrolyte levels in a battery cell of electrolyte. The device includes a body that fits into the filling opening of the electrolyte cell. The body has no moving parts, but allows water to flow from the water inlet into the cell via an array of water traps. A water trap is adapted to allow water from the water inlet to enter the electrolyte through the tap at a particular supply pressure. The flow of water through the tap into the cell is stopped when the pressure of air in the device is equal to the supply pressure of water. Thereby, the water supplied bypasses the nipple and is supplied from the device to the device of the next successive connected battery cell via the water outlet.

When the flow of water through the nipple stops, the pressure of the water inside the nipple is related to the water supply pressure, which is regulated by a pressure regulating valve disposed between the water inlet of the device and the water source. Since the pressure of the water is blocked at the tap because the pressure of the water inlet is applied, the electrolyte level provided by the device is sensitive to the pressure and the like, and the electrolyte level in each electrolyte cell changes according to the water inlet pressure. For this reason, a pressure regulating valve must be used to fix the water inlet pressure to a desired constant value that provides the desired electrolyte level.

British patent 1,041,629 discloses another "trap-type" device that is very similar to the trap-type device described above in that the device is a device that uses a faucet to control the distribution of water into the electrolyte cell. The device operates using the same principle of operation as another trap-type device, and is configured to provide some electrolyte level inside the cell that is sensitive to the water supply pressure.

The trap-type devices described above are intended to be connected in series using water pressure, in the same manner as those devices equipped in other electrolyte cells to provide continuous battery level and replenishment. However, because the water inlet pressure for each device determines the electrolyte level in each cell, the pressure drop that occurs through the continuous arrangement of devices may result in extremely low levels in each continuously arranged cell, If the pressure is so low, it is difficult to create the correct electrolyte level in each cell. In addition, such trap-type devices are configured in such a way that, once the desired cell electrolyte level is satisfied, the gas generated inside the cell is not discharged out of the cell, resulting in an explosion hazard.

The trap-type device described above can provide electrolyte level control and replenishment without circulating the electrolyte between and between the electrolyte cells and out of the battery, and without the use of a moving member, of such a device. The capacity depends on the inlet pressure of the water, whereby it is not suitable for use when such a device is applied and precise water pressure control in such an application is not useful or practical.

In addition, the trap-type device described above may not operate under conditions such as vacuum, for example, under conditions where the pressure differential through the device will occur under vacuum rather than under pressure. The ability to perform electrolyte leveling and replenishment using a vacuum in which the pressure differential through the device is limited is desirable because such ability can reduce the likelihood of outflow of water that can occur outside the cell. Such outflow of water is due to leakage from connected tubes or the like.

Therefore, it is known that there is a need for a device having the following characteristics: such a device enables electrolyte level control and electrolyte replenishment of an electrolyte cell of an electrolyte cell from a single location, i.e., one bonding site connected to a source of water. To do it; The device replenishes the electrolyte cells with water up to a predetermined electrolyte level and circulates non-electrolyte water, and the device with the device is charged once through the device to one or more devices installed in each cell. .; Such a device is free of movement members and can provide electrolyte level control and replenishment regardless of changes due to pressure differences within the device; The device can then be used in pressurized or vacuum operating conditions.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a device used to charge one or more electrolyte cells of an electrolyte cell with water, and more particularly, without the use of a moving member and the need to circulate the battery's electrolyte from the cells. A liquid filling device for filling one or more electrolyte cells of an electrolyte cell without a charge.

The above-mentioned features in the present invention are disclosed in the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, which are set forth below in connection with the accompanying drawings. From here:

1-9 are a series of cross-sectional elevations in a practical and continuous state of the process state of the present invention illustrating the principles of the present invention, and are schematic diagrams of a simplified embodiment of a water device; More specifically,

1 shows the position of the water device before the start of the replenishing operation and within the head space of the electrolyte cell having an amount less than the amount of full electrolyte level;

2 shows the initiation of an operation to replenish electrolyte where water is introduced into the device and passes through the trap bowl of the device;

3 shows filling the bowl with a water level equal to the lip height of the exit barrier of the device;

4 shows the passage of water from the bowl through the bell of the device into the electrolyte cell and beyond the drain barrier lip;

5 shows the movement of water entering the electrolyte through the trap as the electrolyte level rises to the mouth of the bell while forming an air pocket inside the bell;

6 shows further passage of water into the electrolyte while the electrolyte level rises above the bell inlet and increases the pressure of the trapped air inside the air bag;

7 illustrates the subsequent movement of water and subsequent filling of the bowl into the electrolyte where water in the bowl rises up to the open end of the device's water outlet passage for flow from the device;

FIG. 8 shows the flow of water into the cell is interrupted when a predetermined electrolyte level is met and the rise of electrolyte level in the cell therein as the water entering the bowl passes from the bowl through the water outlet passage and continuous filling of the bowl. Shown;

9 shows the completion of the operation of replenishing the electrolyte after the predetermined electrolyte level is satisfied and the purging process is completed;

10 is a front sectional view of a first embodiment of a device constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and having a connecting device attached within the electrolyte filling opening inside the electrolyte cell;

FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of the device of FIG. 10 taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10;

12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 12-12 in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 13-13 in FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is a front cross-sectional view cut along the line of device of FIG. 10, ie, 14-14 in FIG. 11, rotated 90 degrees.

FIG. 15 is a plan sectional view of the device cut along the portion of 15-15 in FIG.

FIG. 16 is a front sectional view of a device similar to that of FIG. 14 including a checked vent cap arrangement.

17 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a device constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention as an integral component of the battery cover.

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing electrolyte level control and replenishment including many of the devices shown in FIGS. 10-15 or 16 installed in an electrolyte cell of an electrolyte cell and continuously connected hydraulically.

FIG. 19 is a plan sectional view illustrating the device shown in FIGS. 10-15 as protruding from the water charging port of the battery.

FIG. 20 is a view similar to FIG. 8 illustrating the use of a water device for thermal handling of cell electrolyte within an electrolyte cell.

The present invention addresses the need for the devices described above and the like, and seeks to solve such problems. The present invention is economical, simple, effective and easy.

Generally speaking, the present invention is independent of the supply pressure of water by the use of moving parts, without the need to circulate the electrolyte out of the cell and by the pressure difference inside the device under pressurized or vacuum operating conditions. And a device capable of replenishing one or more electrolyte cells of the electrolyte cell with water up to a predetermined electrolyte level. Specific examples of such devices include a body having a chamber inside the device, and have first and second water ports extending through the body into the chamber. The first and second water ports may be used interchangeably with water inlets or water outlet ports.

The device body also includes passages of the first and second water. The water passages are independent of one another extending axially in an annular chamber, hydraulically connected to the first and second water inlets, respectively, and a lower end that is a cavity below the inlet. Have them. Water introduced into the device through any one of the water entrances and exits axially into the device through each water passage.

The trap is located inside the device body and has a bowl inlet located below the terminal bottom of the first and second water passages. Water passed through any one of the water passages passes through the trap. The trap includes first and second weirs embedded therein. The bell chamber is located inside the body adjacent to the outlet of the trap. Water passing through the trap barrier of the trap enters the interior of the chamber and passes through the outside of the open end of the bell chamber into the electrolyte cell.

The trap and bell chamber are confined to trap air therein when the electrolyte surface meets the opening end of the bell chamber in the electrolyte cell. As water continues to pass through the device inside the electrolyte cell, the trapped air is pressurized by the electrolyte rising from the bell chamber. The flow rate of water through the trap decreases when the pressure of the trapped air begins to reach the highest pressure in the device caused by the water level in the device. The trap and bell chamber are designed so that the flow of water through the trap to the electrolyte cell is interrupted and the desired level of electrolyte in the cell is satisfied, and the trapped air pressure at that time is at least inside the bowl. Is equal to the maximum pressure of. The device is configured to include a gas outlet for venting gas pressure from the electrolyte cell to the atmosphere after the water circulates, or to a collection for further treatment.

The device is operative to cause a pressure differential between the inlet and outlet passages of the water to allow water to flow into the device from the water supply connected to the device. Pressure differences can occur due to pressurized or vacuum operating conditions. The device may fit into the electrolyte filling opening in the electrolyte cell or be embodied as an essential component of a new cell configuration so that the present electrolyte cell is provided with a newly improved retrofit.

The liquid filling device of the present invention may be hydraulically connected to one another for use in electrolyte replenishment and level control systems for filling each of a number of electrolyte cells. The advantage of using such a device in such a system is that the replenishment of multiple electrolyte cells and the like are such that the operation is derived from a single location, i. It simplifies level control.

Broadly speaking, the structural specific form of the present invention may include a trap having a body defining the first and second water flow ports and a bowl located underneath the water port. The body also includes first and second water passages through which the ports are separately connected to the bowl for ingress and egress of water from or into the bowl. The trap has a discharge barrier lip between the bowl and the outlet from a trap located below the lip at a distance selected below the desired liquid level for installation in a chamber to which the outlet can be connected to the chamber. . The trap has an outlet located vertically with respect to the grip and located below the distal end of one of the first and second passageways. The volume distribution between such one passage lower end and the trap outlet is limited such that the flow of water through the trap stops after submerging the trap outlet and after the water in the bowl has risen to at least the level of the lower end of such one passage.

Broadly speaking, the specific process of the present invention involves causing a pressure differential between the water inlet and the water outlet of the liquid filling device, and the water passes through the water inlet passage of the device to trap the device, the bell chamber of the device. It passes through the inside of the electrolyte cell. The trapped volume of air is formed inside the trap and the bell chamber when the electrolyte level reaches the opening end of the bell chamber inside the cell. The volume of air trapped in the device is pressurized by the continuous movement of water into the electrolyte cell until the pressure of the trapped air is at least equal to the highest pressure of water in the device caused by the water level in the device. Passage of water into the electrolyte cell is stopped when the trapped pressure is at least equal to the maximum pressure of water in the device so that the desired electrolyte level is achieved. The predetermined electrolyte level is achieved regardless of the pressure of the water entering the device.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail.

Liquid filling devices (LFDs) of the present invention operate on the principle of electrolyte level control for one or more electrolyte cells in an electrolyte cell and the difference in hydraulic pressure that can replenish the electrolyte. Generally speaking, the LFDs of the present invention are located within the head space of the electrolyte cell and provide electrolyte level control and replenishment without using a moving part and without circulating the battery electrolyte, and the device and the Electrolyte level control and replenishment are provided in a manner that achieves a predetermined electrolyte level regardless of the vacuum conditions or pressures used to generate pressure differentials in the LFD to introduce water into the adjacent cell.

1 schematically illustrates the basic structural characteristics of an LFD 10 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The LFDs shown in FIGS. 1-9 are shown in simple form for the purpose of clearly showing the principle of operation of the LFD constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The LFD of the present invention is installed in the head space of the electrolyte cell 12 such as the electrolyte cell above the electrolyte surface and under the electrolyte cell cover. It is shown that the LFDs shown in FIGS. 1-9 are completely installed inside the electrolyte for simplicity. The LFD of the present invention may be configured to fit snugly through the electrolyte filling opening to the cell cover of the current electrolyte cell, or may be composed of a portion of the cell cover itself or an integral part of the battery.

As described in detail below, in some cases, depending on whether the LFD is formed as a device using an improved retrofit in an existing electrolyte cell or as an integral component of the electrolyte cell of a new battery. However, it includes a water input passage 14 extending through the LFD body or the battery cell cover. The water outlet passage 16 extends through the LFD body or the battery cover. The water inlet passage 14 is inside the cell up to the electrode end of the electrolyte cell (not shown) and to the outlet end 18 towards the bowl 20 of the device necessarily located above the desired level of electrolyte 22 in the cell. Has the legs facing down. The outlet passage 16 has a shelf facing up in the cell from the inlet end 44 (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6) located within the height of the bowl 20.

The bowl 20 includes an inlet 24 near the top of the device, and includes a floor 26 near the bottom of the device. The bowl extends vertically downward from the inlet 24 to form a first bowl passageway 28 between the first weir lip 30 and the bowl floor 20. As described below, the position of the first barrier lip 30 inside the bowl is determined by the operation of the hydraulic pressure of the LFD to replenish the electrolyte to a predetermined level within the cell. The bowl trap includes a second blocking film 32 positioned adjacent to the first blocking film 27 and extending upward from the bowl floor 26. The second bowl passage 29 extends from the first blocking membrane 27 into the bowl and is hydraulically connected to the bell chamber 33. As will be seen below, the placement of the second barrier lip 36 is due to the actuation of the hydraulic pressure of the LFD to replenish the electrolyte to a predetermined level inside the cell. The bell chamber 33 extends downwardly from the LFD body and the barrier rib 36 into the electrolyte cell, is located in a preferred position inside the cell and at the opening end 38 opposite the body in relation to the other structure of the LFD. ).

The remaining characteristics of the LFD of the present invention will be better explained and understood with reference to FIGS. 1-9. 1-9 show simplified embodiments of the LFDs of the present invention over time differences during leveling and replenishment of electrolytes in electrolyte cells.

1 shows an LFD 10 located inside the headspace of an electrolyte cell 12 that includes a battery electrolyte 22 of less than the desired level. Low lead levels in lead acid batteries, etc., can result in loss of water from the acid electrolyte. In FIG. 2 water 40 from a suitable water supply is introduced into the water inlet passage 14 and is led through such a passage up to the LFD bowl 20. Water is introduced into the LFD due to the pressure difference generated between the water inlet and the water outlet passages 14 and 16. The pressure difference may be caused by pressurization (eg, by pressurizing water through the passage 14 at a desired and convenient pressure) or by vacuum operating conditions (eg, without affecting the leveling and supplementary operating characteristics of the LFD). In which the vacuum device and the passage 16 are connected).

The first water that went into the bowl is contained therein due to the placement of the second blocking film 32 inside the bowl so that the water does not flow completely into the bell chamber 33.

In FIG. 3, the flow of water through the water inlet passage 14 and from the water supply entering the bowl 20 is continuous, and the level of water in the bowl rises to the same level as the edge of the second barrier rib 36. . As long as the water level in the bowl is below the edge of the second barrier lip 36, the water in the bowl does not pass through the bell chamber into the electrolyte cell. In FIG. 4, the flow of water from the water supply to the bowl through the water inlet passage 14 is continuous and the water level in the bowl rises to a higher level than the second barrier lip 36. As soon as the water level in the bowl exceeds the second barrier film height, the water flows into the bell chamber 33 through the second bowl passage 29 and enters the electrolyte cell 12 through the bell chamber 38. Exciting the bell chamber and allowing the water entering the electrolyte cell to mix with the electrolyte 22 in the cell and raise the electrolyte level in the cell.

In FIG. 5, the flow of water supplied from the water supply source is continued into the electrolyte cell through the water inlet passage 14, the bowl 20, and the bell chamber 33, and this continuous flow causes the electrolyte level inside the cell to be changed into the bell chamber. It rises to the same water level as the inlet 38 of 33. As shown in FIG. Once the electrolyte level in the cell rises to the bell chamber 38, the air 42 in the bell chamber 33 and the second bowl passage 29 is drawn by the surface of the water inside the second bowl passage 29. Trapped inside. Then, at the opposite end, air 42 is trapped by the electrolyte surface at the bell chamber inlet 38. Just when the electrolyte surface contacts the bell chamber inlet, the trapped air 42 is at the same pressure as the internal cell pressure. This is because the air substituted inside the electrolyte cell is discharged out of the cell through the water outlet passage 16 while the electrolyte is replenished by the introduction of water.

In FIG. 6, the flow of water supplied from the water supply source is continued into the electrolyte cell through the water inlet passage 14, the bowl 20, and the bell chamber 33, and this continuous flow causes the electrolyte level inside the cell to be changed into the bell chamber. It rises above the water level of the inlet 38 of (33). As the electrolyte level rises above the inlet 38 in both the cell and the bell chamber, the pressure of the trapped air 42 inside the bell chamber 33 is increased and the pressure on the surface of the water in the second bowl passage 29 is increased. Is added. The pressure applied to the surface of the water in the second bowl passageway causes the water level in the interior thereof to be lower than the lip 36 of the second barrier film 32. This reduces the rate of water passage to the bell chamber 33. This is because the pressure of trapped air 42 in the bell chamber approaches the head pressure associated with the water level in the bowl. This is because the pressure of the water in the bowl is caused by the level of water in the bowl and is independent of the supply pressure of the water entering the LFD. As the pressure of the trapped air rises, the water level inside the bowl also begins to rise towards the opening end 44 of the outlet passage 16 of the water.

In FIG. 7, the flow of water supplied from the water supply source is continued into the electrolyte cell through the water inlet passage 14, the bowl 20, and the bell chamber 33, and the electrolyte level rising from the cell and the water in the bowl 20 are increased. Both levels rise to the point where the surface of the water contacts the opening end 44 of the outlet passage 16 of the water. The opening end 44 of the water outlet passage 16 of the water is below the opening end of the water inlet passage 14 for the purpose of illustration and simplicity, as shown in FIGS. 1-9, the opening of the water inlet and outlet passages, as shown in FIGS. 1-9. The distal end may be located at the same level inside the device in the bowl without affecting the leveling and replenishment operation of the LFD.

The phenomenon that occurs when the water level in the bowl reaches the open end 44 of the outlet passage 16 of the water depends on whether it is created by pressurized or vacuum operating conditions. The pressure difference inside the LFD is connected at the inlet end 46 to a supply of unpressurized water (not shown) under vacuum operating conditions. The outlet passage 16 of water is connected at the outlet end 48 to a vacuum feed (not shown), and a vacuum is added to the water outlet passage. When air is discharged from the cell 12, water 40 is sucked through the water inlet passage 14 and enters the cell in the manner described above. Once the water level in the bowl 20 reaches the opening end 44 of the outlet passage 16 of the water, the water level rises by vacuum in the passage and is sucked through the passage. As water continues to flow through the outlet passage 16 of the water, water continuously enters the cell via the water inlet passage 14 and water continuously enters the cell through the flow through the bell chamber 13.

The LFD is designed to stop the flow of water from the bowl 20 into the cell 12 after reaching a predetermined or desired electrolyte level. More specifically, the opening end 44 of the first and second barrier film ribs 30 and 36 and the water outlet passage 16 is located inside the bowl 20, whereby the electrolyte in the cell is at a predetermined level. Upon reaching, the trapped air 42 may be pressurized sufficiently to apply the same pressure to the surface of the water in the second bowl passage 29. The LFD causes the same pressure to move both the water level below or to the location of the second barrier lip 36 in the interior of the second bowl passageway 29, thereby further from the bowl 20 through the bell chamber 33. The water stops moving further, causing the water level in the bowl to rise to the opening end 44 of the water outlet passage 16 so that water still entering the bowl does not enter the cell's electrolyte space and enters the LFD. It flows through and is removed from the LFD 10. Once the LFD reaches the same pressure and the like and the desired cell electrolyte level is satisfied, the proportion of water flow in and out of the LFD is parallel, and the LFD performs the water cycle rather than electrolyte replenishment.

Under pressure operating conditions, the water inlet passage 14 is connected to the inlet end 46 up to the supply of pressurized water. The outlet end 48 of the outlet passage 16 of water is atmospheric pressure. When water enters the LFD, it fills the bowl 20 described above and the electrolyte cell 12. Once the water level in the bowl 20 reaches the open end 44 of the outlet passage 16 of the water, the water level in the bowl continues until the pressure of the trapped air 42 reaches the same pressure. To rise. At that same pressure, water moves in the second bowl passage 29 below the second barrier lip 36. At this point, the water level in the bowl is sufficient to affect the passage of water from the bowl through the outlet passage 16 of the water. As with a vacuum operated system, once the LFD reaches its same pressure and the desired cell electrolyte level is satisfied, the flow rates of the water input and exited from the LFD reach parallel, and the LFD replenishes the electrolyte. Perform water cycle rather than action.

A feature of the LFDs of the present invention is designed to provide the desired electrolyte level inside the cell by the pressure or vacuum in which the pressure differential is induced and is designed to provide such an electrolyte level regardless of the specific operating pressure or vacuum conditions used. .

Referring to FIG. 8, the LFD 10 reaches the same pressure between the pressure of the trapped air 42 and the head pressure of the water in the bowl, and the pressure of the trapped air 42 in the second bowl passage 29. And the bell chamber 33 is shown at such a point that the water level in the second bowl passage can be sufficiently moved in proportion to the second barrier lip 36 so that the movement of water into the bell chamber 33 is stopped. Equilibrium is also achieved in the bowl 20 so that the proportion of water entering the bowl is equal to the proportion of water flowing from the LFD via the water outlet passage 16. At this point, electrolyte level control and replenishment are complete.

Depending on the particular application, the LFD may be used to charge a single electrolyte cell, in which case the water flowing from the cell may collect in a water reservoir or the like, and the water flowing into the cell may pass through the water outlet passage (16 Can be stopped after the flow of water is detected. LFDs constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention can be used to charge numerous electrolyte cells in an electrolyte cell. In such applications, one LFD is hydraulically connected to allow level adjustment and replenishment of multiple electrolyte cells in series and / or in parallel. An experimental system for level control and replenishment of electrolytes in multiple electrolyte cells is described in detail below with respect to FIG.

Referring to FIG. 9, after the process of electrolyte level control and replenishment is completed and water is introduced into the LFD, in the water inlet passage 14 and the water outlet passage 16, for example, between the hydraulically connected LFDs It is desirable to remove any remaining liquid, such as water trapped inside the extended water inlet and outlet passages. Removing water from the water inlet and outlet passages is desirable because the water prevents the movement of water between the electrolyte cells and ultimately prevents the movement of water from the battery during charging and discharging of the battery by the pressure created within each cell. Do. It is known that the gas pressure inside each cell increases during the filling process due to the release of gas (hydrogen and oxygen) and gas leakage from the electrolyte. Such a gas leak travels through the hydraulically connected electrolyte cells located inside the water inlet and outlet passages and finally out of the cell.

The water inlet and outlet passages 14 and 16 are cleaned by the following method; (1) allowing the liquid contained in the water outlet passage to pass air through the water inlet passage 14 to the bowl 20 At the water level moves below the opening end 44 and passes through the passage until the air passes through it; (2) passes the air through the water outlet passage 16 to the water outlet passage. Allow the liquid contained to be reversed to the inside of the bowl 20 until air passes through it; (3) apply a vacuum to the water inlet passage 14 and the vacuum contained within the water outlet passage. Allow water to be removed back into the bowl; Or (4) apply a vacuum to the water outlet passage 16 until the water contained therein moves from the bowl 20 to the level of water below its opening end 44 and through which air passes therethrough. To be pushed through.

10-15, presently preferred LFDs 54 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention generally include the same structural features as described above with respect to the LFD 10 shown in FIGS. It is formed so that it can mount in the electrolyte filling opening of a cell (FIG. 19). LFD 54 comprises an LFD cap 56 from the top end of the device, an LFD upper body 58 positioned below cap 54 and having an open upper end 60 of body portion 58 attached thereto; A lower body portion 62 attached to the bottom opening end 64 of the body portion 58; and a trap and bell chamber body 66 attached to the bottom end 68 of the trap and body portion 58; It consists of a multi-piece structure. Elements 56, 58, 62 and 66 are generally rounded and coaxially arranged and their edges are interconnected.

The overall shape of the LFD 54 is a water charging port of an existing battery, such as, for example, a lead acid battery, except for duct connection fittings that preferably extend laterally from the LFD and define the passage ports 70, 72. It is a circular cylinder shape with a suitable external shape fixed to it.

Generally speaking, water enters the LFD upper body 58 through either of the two water ports 70, 72, passes through the LFD body 58, the body portion 62 and the bell chamber body 66. It is introduced into the electrolyte cell through the trap formed by the. The LFD is configured to provide level control and replenishment of the electrolyte according to the hydraulic principles shown in FIGS. 1-9 and described above. The LFD 54 is designed to regulate the flow of water through either of its water ports 70, 72, thus simplifying the hydrodynamic connection.

10 and 11, the LFD 54 is generally in the form of a cylinder to be mounted inside the electrolyte filling opening of the electrolyte cell. The upper body 58 has a water chamber 74 extending from the first (upper) opening end 60 to the second (lower) end 64 and a first end 60 extending radially outward therefrom. Adjacent water ports 70, 72. The water ports 70, 72 preferably extend from the LFD body 58 at locations opposite the diameters. Two spaced water quality baffles 76 are located in the chamber, each positioned to have a front side surface 78 perpendicular to each water port. Each water regulating device 76 forms an upper body portion 58 while forming a pair of radially opposed vertical water passages 80 respectively positioned between the regulator front side surface 78 and the adjacent body wall surface. It is connected along the longitudinal edge of the inner wall surface of the wall. Each water passage 80 extends downward from the water ports 70, 72 to the second (lower) end 64 of the upper body, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 10, the LFD body 58 is symmetrical in cross section with respect to the vertical central axis. As described below, referring to FIG. 14, the LFD 58 is also perpendicular to the water control device 76 and includes a vertical gas control device 112 located inside the chamber 74.

The LFD 54 includes a means that can be detached from the electrolyte filling opening of the electrolyte cell. In a preferred embodiment, such means are arranged circumferentially around the LFD body 58 and extend axially along the body between the water ports 70, 72 and the LFD body second end 64. (collar) in the form of (82). An O-ring seal 83 is disposed circumferentially around the outer surface of the LFD body 58 and is disposed between the collar 82 and the LFD body to form a gas and liquid tight seal. do. The collar 82 is attached around the LFD body by a disturbing fit or other connecting means such as adhesive bonds, ultrasonic bonds, etc. However, it is preferred that the body is rotationally transported at the feather.

In the preferred arrangement shown, the LFDs 54 are coaxially arranged through the collars 82 and positioned and sealed inside the collar by a tight fit by the O-ring seal 83. do. Attaching the LFD 54 to the feather in this manner allows the LFD to be rotated inside the feather and allows external soldering without interfering with the seals and bonds formed between the feather and the cell filling opening. Do it. As detailed below, the assembled LFD 54 is inserted into the feather 82 after the feather is mounted inside the electrolyte filling opening of the electrolyte cell.

The collar 82 is used to facilitate desorption of the electrolyte cell with the electrolyte-filled opening and includes a first flange 84 extending radially away from one axial end of the feather, and in the water ports 70, 72 It is located adjacent. The first flange 84 has a diameter larger than the diameter of the electrolyte filling opening to limit the insertion depth of the LFD in the electrolyte cell. In addition, the first flange may have another form of a typical tool used to rotate the members or an outer form designed to fit the hand. This configuration allows the first flange to use a tool for mounting and rotating the feather in the electrolyte cell opening.

The collar 82 also includes two lower second flanges extending radially from the axial end of the collar adjacent to the second end 64 of the upper body 58. The second flange 86 is positioned radially opposite on the feather and extends partially (preferably about 90 degrees) with respect to the circumferential direction of the feather and is sized to be disposed in the electrolyte filling opening. The upper surface 88 of each flange 86 is formed on a helical inclined surface formed at the base of a ledge 170 whose fit extends from the outer diameter of the electrolyte filling opening 171 defined in the battery cover 172. Complementary helical inclined surfaces to be detachably fastened (see FIG. 19). These are two radially opposite shelves in the filling opening, each extending partially (preferably 90 degrees) with respect to the opening. The collar 82 is formed to achieve a removable fit in the electrolyte filling opening by inserting the second flange 86. As such, the first flange 84 is located opposite the top surface of the battery cell, for example the battery cover, and camming between the flange 86 and the charging aperture shelf 170. Working together, the LFD 54 is rotated a certain amount (preferably 90 degrees) within the opening such that an upper circumferential feather flange 84 is positioned and sealed relative to the battery cover surface with respect to the electrolyte filling opening.

The collar also preferably includes two moving members 89 (one member may be used) in the form of a tab integral with the side wall portion of the collar, as shown in FIG. The tab is designed to have an inner surface extending radially inward from the inner diameter of the feather and an outer surface that is in plane with the outer diameter of the feather when the LFD 54 is not located inside the feather. Inserting the LFD 54 into the feather 82, the action of the cam causes the outer surface of the tab to be forced radially outward to protrude a predetermined distance from the outer diameter of the feather.

The tab is located along the feather. When the LFD 54 is installed inside the collar mounted to the battery charging opening, the tabs project into the charging opening protrusion and grooves that are adapted to engage the adjacent ends of the charging opening shelf to secure the feather to a position that is fully rotated in the opening. Located along the feather This locking engagement of the feather at the opening is important because it prevents the feather from rotating in or at the opening in the filling opening. This ensures a gas and liquid tight seal between the filling opening and the feather. Such a seal is important for water supply under vacuum operating conditions. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19, the feather includes two tabs 89 positioned radially opposite from each other to engage correspondingly opposed portions in the radial direction of the filling opening.

The feather may comprise one or more washers (not shown) located circumferentially around them between the first and second flanges provided to achieve a gas liquid tight seal against the outer surface of the cell cover. .

While specific means of describing a removable LFD structure with an electrolyte filling opening of a battery cell have been described and disclosed, it should be understood that other attachment means known in the art may be used to achieve the same, which is intended within the scope of the present invention. Will be.

The lower body portion 62 of the LFD (also referred to as the blocking portion, as it represents a structure corresponding to the first blocking lip 30 shown in FIGS. 1-9) is the second end 64 of the LFD upper body 58. It is attached to and has the same outer diameter as the LFD upper body 58. 10 and 12, the barrier membrane body 62 includes a pair of closure portions 90, each extending in a horizontal direction radially across the diameter of the barrier membrane body from radially opposite body edges. Here, the closures 90 each form a floor portion for each water passage 80 through the LFD. In other words, the closure 90 of the lower body portion forms the floor of the bowl extending toward the members 70, 72 and the passage 80 extending downward from the member toward the bowl in the LFD. The body 62 includes a centrally located passageway 92 extending axially through a predetermined distance downward from the closure 90. The passage 92 is formed vertically by the wall surface 94 forming the first blocking film 95. In a specific embodiment, the barrier subpath 92 has a rectangular cross section, as shown well in FIGS. 12 and 13. The first blocking film 95 includes a first blocking film lip 96 at its open end extending from the upper portion of the bell chamber 66 to the central passage 97 by a predetermined distance.

10 and 13, the bell chamber 66 is generally cylindrical in shape and preferably has a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the LFD body portions 58, 68. The bell chamber body 66 has a passageway 97 extending axially therethrough from the first body end 98 attached to the barrier film body 62 to the second lower opening end or opening 100. . For convenience, the annular shaped passageway 97 of the bell chamber will be referred to as a bell chamber. The bell chamber 97 includes a water reservoir 102 located therein. The water reservoirs each extend axially along the bell chamber by a predetermined length, and are formed vertically by pairs of side walls 104 facing in the radial direction and attached along the longitudinal edges to the wall of the bell chamber body. It is. The side wall 104 has an upper end 110 positioned below the closure 90 of the body portion 62 to form the second blocking film 105. (Compare with the second barrier wall 32 as shown in FIG. 1). The reservoir extends between the lower ends of the sidewalls 104, and on the floor 106 having a longitudinal edge attached to the ends. By the horizontal direction. The floor 106 has a transverse edge attached to the wall of the bell chamber 96. The first barrier lip 96 is positioned a predetermined distance above the reservoir floor 106, so that the second barrier lip 110 (formed at the upper edge of the wall 104) is closed 90 of the barrier body. The water reservoir 102 is designed to impart the location of the barrier body passageway 92 therein, such that it is located a predetermined distance below and a predetermined distance above the first barrier lip 96. In addition, the first barrier 95 and the second barrier 105 form a trap located inside the LFD 54 at the bottom of the bowl below 70 and 72 parts. The water reservoir floor 106 is located a predetermined distance above the bell chamber inlet 100 so that air trapped in the desired volume is produced therein during the leveling and replenishment operation of the electrolyte of the device.

The LFD 54 is designed to allow unidirectional water flow through it using a water port 70 or 72 as the water inlet. Water is introduced into the LFD 54 by pressure differential between the water ports 70, 72 under pressure or vacuum operating conditions. Water entering the LFD passes through the first barrier lip 96, through the barrier body center water passage 92, through the first barrier lip 96, into the LFD trap, through the inlet port, and from the LFD body chamber 74. It passes through the corresponding water passage 80 and advances upward by the second blocking film 105. The water is introduced into the electrolyte cell via the bell chamber 97 beyond the second blocking film lip 110, and mixed or replenished with the previous electrolyte solution.

LFD 54 acts in the same manner as previously described for the simplified arrangement shown in FIGS. 1-9. When a predetermined electrolyte level is reached inside the cell, the pressure of the trapped air inside the bell chamber and trap adds the same pressure to the surface of the water located between the first and second barriers and the pressure is equal to the level of water in the bowl of the LFD. It is greater than or equal to the head pressure of water inside the associated LFD body 58. Pressurizing the air trapped in the bell chamber causes water located between the first and second barriers to be at or below the second barrier lip 110. Once the trapped air pressure is at or above the head pressure of the water in the LFD, the flow of water to the cell is stopped.

In the LFDs described and shown above, water cannot flow out of the device without flowing into the bowl. The only passage for water from the device to its outlet is via the bowl in which the trap is located. The passageway has a downward facing path between the inlet and outlet ports, and the bowl is part of the flow path of water in such a path. The trap does not have a moving member and acts as a valve responsive to the battery cell electrolyte level to control whether the injected water flows only into the cell, or out of the cell and LFD, or only out of the LFD.

FIG. 14 shows the LFD 54 of FIG. 10 in a partial plane perpendicular to the incision plane used in FIG. 10. 14 shows the gas distribution structure of the LFD 54. A pair of gas regulators 112 are located axially inside the LFD chamber 74 and extend from the position slightly below and adjacent the LFD upper body first end 60 to the barrier body 62. The wall 112 has a continuous gas regulating device 112 at the closure 90, the lower body portion 62 extending such walls to the bottom of the water bowl in the LFD. 14 and 15, the gas regulator 112 is located perpendicular to the water regulator 76 and is attached along the longitudinal edge between the water regulators (see FIG. 11). A pair of gas passages 114 are each formed inside the chamber 74 between the front portion 116 of each gas regulating device 112 and the corresponding adjacent chamber wall surface. The central passage 118 is formed along the central axis of the chamber 74 between the inner (rear) surface of both the water control device 76 and the gas control device 112.

The barrier body 62 includes one or more vent openings 120 extending into the gas passage 114 through the walls of the barrier body. In a specific embodiment, the barrier membrane bodies 62 are in a diametrically opposite direction from each other and are formed through a cylindrical wall of the body over the body portion 90 forming the floor of the bowl of LFD. An exhaust port 120. Once the LFD is placed in the electrolyte fill opening of the electrolyte cell, the air or gas pressure formed inside the cell enters the LFD 54 through the vent 120. The entered gas moves upward from the exhaust port 120 through the gas passage 114 toward the top of the LFD body passage. Gas flows above the upper edge 123 of the gas regulator 112 and enters the central chamber 118. As will be described below, gas entering the central chamber enters the water passage 80 through it, where the gas exits the LFD 54.

The LFD cap 56 is generally in the form of a disk. The cap 56 has a diameter similar to the LFD upper body 58, and is attached along its circular edge to the opening end 60 of the LFD upper body 58. The gas entering the central chamber 118 passes down through the chamber, where the gas passes under the bottom edge 125 of the water regulator 76 and is used to remove water from the LFD ( 72) enters one or more of the water passages 80 for removal from the LFD 54. For example, during the water filling process performed under vacuum or pressurized operating conditions, gas in the central chamber leaves LFD 54 via water passage 80 used to transport water from LFD 54. In this way, the LFD increases pressure in the cell due to the movement of air during electrolyte replenishment operations in the cell and during charge and discharge operations (if the water inlet port is not blocked and is evacuated to the atmosphere or gas collection). Prevent it. If the formation of such pressure is due to the glass of the gas from the component of the water of the electrolyte, it may cause the explosion risk.

FIG. 16 shows the LFD described and shown above in FIGS. 10-15, except that a valve carrier 125 is inserted between the cap 56 and the upper LFD body portion 58 in the LFD 124. Another preferred embodiment of LFD 124 similar to 54 is shown. LFD 124 is configured to allow gas to enter the LFD that is bent from it. The valve carrier 125 has the form of a circular disk shape and is attached to the opening end 60 of the upper body 58 with respect to the edge around the circumference. The valve carrier has a bottom wall 130 that forms a central valve that protrudes through the opening 126 at the center of the pattern of the exhaust gas hole 131 and passes therethrough. The valve carrier also has a side wall extending around the circumferential edge and forms at least one exhaust port 132 therein. The check valve means 127 is located inside the central opening 126 to provide one passage of gas from the central chamber 74 through the carrier and to prevent air from entering the LFD from the atmosphere. Exhaust from the LFD It is desirable that such check or gas in one passage permit the use of the device under vacuum operating conditions.

In a specific embodiment, the check valve means 127 is in the form of an elastic check valve member or stopper located around and on the exhaust hole 131. It protrudes via a stem 128 protruding from the center. It has a second protruding end that acts with the top of the wall 130 to the outside of the exhaust hole. The stopper 127 may provide a one-way flow of air or gas through the exhaust hole 131 and into the carrier from the LFD center gas chamber 118, and through the carrier and into the center chamber 118. The passage is not directed to the atmosphere.

Gas entering the LFD center gas chamber 118 passes through the stopper 127 and passes through the exhaust hole 131 to the atmosphere through the exhaust port 132 or, alternatively, accidentally moves to and / or processes to the atmosphere. Gather for The LFD 124 formed in this manner prevents pressure from occurring in the cell during charging and discharging while the port is blocked by the LFD. Thus the gas does not leave the LFD via the water passage. For example, LFDs that include such curved gas cap arrangements can be used to advantage in cell water systems for golf carts that power cells where off-board reservoirs are used. Induction of water inlet and outlet into LFDs has a check valve that closes when the conductor is disconnected from the water supply. This prevents water leaks when conduits or hoses are not connected from the water supply.

The identified members forming the LFDs 54 and 124 can be made from structurally suitable materials that can withstand harsh environments in battery provision. For example, LFD is known to show a good degree of structural strength, and from polymers or fluoropolymer materials that provide a good degree of corrosion and / or chemical resistance, including resistance to generator oxygen. Can be made. The members used to form the LFDs can be machined or cast. In a specific embodiment, the LFD upper body 58, the LFD cap 56, the carrier 133, the barrier body 62, the bell chamber body 66, and the collar 82 are each rigid cell grade polypropylene. Are cast from and adhered together using a typical attachment method. The valve stopper 127 and the O-ring 83 are each formed from a material that has both desirable elastic properties required for a particular application and able to withstand harsh environments in the provision of a cell. The ring is formed from EPDM rubber.

FIG. 17 schematically illustrates another LFD 133 of the present invention formed as an integral component of the cell structure, rather than a device designed to be able to attach inside the electrolyte filling opening of a conventional electrolyte cell. For the purpose of simplicity and illustration, the simplified form of the LFD shown in FIGS. 1-9 is shown in FIG. 16 as an essential element of the cell structure, ie as a battery cover. However, it is known that the LFD described and shown above in FIGS. 10-16 may also be formed as an integral component of the cell structure.

LFD 133 seals electrolyte cell 136 of electrolyte cell 140 and engages in battery cover 134 that fits tightly to the cell. The number of LFDs 133 formed in the cover 134 is equal to the number of electrolyte cells 136, and each LFD is oriented inside the battery cover so that the LFD can be located inside the head space of each cell. The cover 134 includes a water inlet port 142 that is hydraulically connected to the water inlet passage 144 of the first LFD. The LFDs are hydraulically connected to each other continuously between the water inlet and the water outlet passages 144, 146 of the LFD via a water transport passage 148 located inside the battery cover. The cover 134 includes a water outlet port 150 hydraulically connected to the water outlet passage 146 of the distal (last) LFD. The LFDs 133 also include an exhaust port 152 located inside the battery cover that allows pressure formed from cells moved from and via the LFD as described for the LFD 43 above.

The arrangement of the three cells shown in FIG. 17 is chosen for simplicity of illustration and reference, and it is known that the LFDs of the present invention can be formed as an integral component of a battery having a certain number of electrolyte cells. It is also understood that the special structure of LFDs as essential with the battery cover is just one way of making LFDs as part of the cell, and it is also within the scope of the present invention to make other structures, for example, the entire LFD with electrolyte cell walls. Can be.

Preferred are LFDs formed as an integral component of the electrolytic cell F cell, rather than as separate devices applying the improved device through the electrolyte filling opening of the electrolyte cell. This is because only one water supply pair and water outlet pair need to affect electrolyte level control and electrolyte replenishment for all types of battery cells. By doing so, the electrolyte level control and replenishment operation can be further simplified. In addition, the avoidance of the need to improve LFDs inside each electrolyte cell can only be reduced by making and maintaining the externally perpendicular between the LFDs. By doing so, the possibility of water leaking out of the battery can be avoided, and the battery can be easily maintained. In some spatially tight applications, the spatial concerns associated with adding LFDs to existing cells can be avoided.

The characteristics of the LFDs of the present invention are excreted inside each electrolyte cell of the battery, and when the LFDs are hydraulically connected to each other, the electrolyte level control and replenishment are connected to the water supply one, the pressure difference occurs inside the LFDs, and the terminal LFD The simple operation of waiting for water to pass through is possible. The use of the LFDs of the present invention eliminates the need for physical access to each cell for electrolyte level control and replenishment, and eliminates the need to circulate the electrolyte out of the cell, thereby reducing the likelihood of property degradation or health problems.

Another feature of the LFDs of the present invention is that electrolyte level control and replenishment can be performed without the use of athletic members or in the cell. The use of a moving member in providing a battery is undesirable because of the harsh environment in contact with the moving members. It is known that the use of a movement member in harsh environments results in improper operation of such parts and / or failure of those parts. Either of the above would impair the proper operation of the device.

Another feature of the LFDs of the present invention is that it allows for electrolyte level control and replenishment under a wide range of pressure differential conditions that can be imparted under a pressurized or vacuum mode of operation. The LFDs of the present invention achieve a predetermined electrolyte level inside the cell based on the same pressure between the head pressure associated with the water level in the bowl inside the LFDs body and the air trapped inside the bell chamber, regardless of the special pressurized or vacuum operating conditions. As designed to provide, the use of LFDs may have the ability on LFDs to ensure that unequal pressure or vacuum operating conditions are consistent with providing a predetermined electrolyte level in each battery cell. By using the LFDs of the present invention, the person performing the electrolyte level control and replenishment operation can be sure that the electrolyte in each cell can be replenished to a predetermined level without concern for specific pressurized or vacuum operating conditions. Such features of the present invention also allow for a levering process that can be easily provided to various other pressurized or vacuum feeds.

The width of the pressure difference needed to operate the LFDs of the present invention depends on the particular LFD application and size. For example, LFDs of size and shape that can be used in golf cart cells or automotive batteries can be operated using smaller pressure differentials than those associated with LFDs of size and shape that can be used as submarine cells. In a specific embodiment, the LFD has a shape such as that shown in FIGS. 10-16 having a body diameter of less than about 1 inch that can be disposed within an electrolyte cell opening for automotive or golf cart applications (ie, the LFD here). Sized to be usable in.), Which does not affect the desired electrolyte level provided by the LFD in the cell, and electrolyte leveling under conditions (absolutely) with pressure differences in the range of about 0.1 to 2.0 Psia And will enable replenishment. However, LFDs can be of any shape and size that can be operated under different pressure differential conditions, depending on the particular application.

Further, preferably, as described in FIG. 20 for the sake of simplicity, the LFDs of the present invention may be used to perform electrolyte thermal conditions as well as filling and leveling and may be shaped to perform. For example, the LFD 10 may include one or more heat transfer elements 170 protruding downward from the floor 26 or bowl bottom by a distance from the bell chamber so that each such element 170 can be immersed in the electrolyte to the desired depth. It is designed to have. The heat transfer element 170 is connected to the LFD 10 at a location that allows conductive heat to be transferred to the electrolyte from the input and circulated water through the LFD. The heat transfer element may be made from a material having good thermal conductivity properties, such as a metal or the like (eg, a stainless metal). LFDs comprising such heat transfer elements are desirable in applications where desirable cell and / or lifetime characteristics are optimal for overheating or cooling the electrolyte. In such applications the electrolyte in each cell may be superheated by circulating the superheated water through each LFD, or may be cooled by circulating the cooled water through each LFD.

FIG. 18 illustrates a liquid filling system (LFS) that is described and shown above in FIGS. 10-16, and includes a number of LFDs 54 each located in each electrolyte cell 158 of electrolyte cell 160. The LFDs 54 are each hydrodynamically connected to one another in succession via a water transport passage inserted between each water port 164 of adjacent LFDs.

The LFS shown in FIG. 18 is intended to provide electrolyte level control and replenishment when a pressure differential is imparted between the water ports 164 of each LFD 54 by vacuum or pressurized operating conditions. The water port 164 of the first LFD 54 is connected to a supply line 166 connected to a water supply source (not shown). When the pressure differential through each LFD is added by pressure conditions, the water supply line 166 is connected with a water supply adapted to provide water at water at a suitable pressure and flow rate, for example line pressure, etc. have. If the pressure differential through each LFD is imparted under vacuum conditions, the water supply line 166 is connected to a water supply adapted to supply water at atmospheric pressure, such as a water reservoir, for example.

18 shows that the bodies of LFDs 54 can rotate on their protruding feathers, so that the position of the angles of the LFDs can sufficiently meet the desired configuration for internal coupling with the LFDs in a multi-cell LFS. Can be adjusted.

The water port 164 of the terminal LFD 54 is connected with the water drain line 168. Preferably the outlet end of the water in the water discharge line is connected to a water reservoir or the like (not shown) that captures the water discharged from the LFS after the leveling and replenishment operation is completed.

Preferably, an attachable quick-connect type (not shown) may be used to provide a single point of attachment for both water supply line 166 and water discharge line 168. have.

Such a fitting attachment may be separated between each end of the water supply line and the water discharge line and may be preferably formed to engage a water tight fit. Such fitting attachments are inspected at each mating end that, when connected, are capable of flowing both through the paired line ends and when disconnected, do not flow through the non-paired line ends. Valves or the like. The use of fit deposits formed in this way is desirable because such use can reduce the process required to initiate electrolyte level control and replenishment to activate the two, ie, to activate the feed and to connect the fit deposits. Do.

LFS 154 is operated by activating a pressurized or vacuum feed that provides a desired pressure differential within each LFD 54 that allows water to flow into the first LFD 54. When water enters the first LFD, water passes through the LFD into the electrolyte cell in the same manner as described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 above. More specifically, when water enters the first LFD 54 and moves through its water passage via its internal water passage, the pressure of the trapped air in the bell chamber reaches the first cell until it reaches the same pressure. At the level of the electrolyte rises. Such same pressure stops water from entering the cell and causes the water level to rise in the LFD until the water level reaches the inlet of the passage of empty water and passes through it out of the LFD. Water circulated through the first LFD is continuously moved via the water transport passage 162 to the port 164 of the water of the next LFD. And in such a continuous arrangement the process is repeated over and over. Water is continually circulated between each LFD until the desired electrolyte level in terminal cell 158 is met, and water is moved from each terminal LFD via its water port 164. Once it is observed that water is discharged from the water discharge line 168, the flow of water from the water supply is stopped by shutting off the pressurized or vacuum supply.

The water port 164, the passage of water inside the LFDs, and the water transport passage 162 hydrodynamically connected to the LFDs, flush the water contained therein in one of the four ways described above. Referring to FIG. 18, in a specific embodiment, water may be flushed by passing pressurized air through an electrolyte cell that is internally connected in the direction of using line 166 or 168 as the air input line. Once it is observed that air is discharged from the other line, the air pressurized supply is released and the electrolyte level control and replenishment operation is completed.

If desired, after the electrolyte level control and replenishment operation has taken place before, during or after the charging process of the cell; Preferably therein and / or thereafter.

Although the exemplary LFS is described and illustrated in detail in FIG. 18 using the LFDs of FIGS. 10-16, the LFSs of the present invention may alternatively use other LFDs of the present invention, and such use may be used in the present invention. It can be understood that it is within the scope.

In the presently preferred aspect of the invention, what has been described above is presented by way of illustration and example. Not all catalogs of all structural and process forms in which the invention is specifically described or may be practiced have not been presented. Changes and modifications of the preferred structures and processes may be pursued without departing from the scope and preferred essence of the invention consistent with the foregoing description, and the claims below are free to read and interpret the context of the state of the art in which the invention has been developed. have.

Claims (39)

A device for replenishing and leveling a liquid electrolyte in an electrolyte cell with water, A body defining first and second water flow ports, A trap with a bowl located below the water flow port, and First and second water passages that connect each port separately downward to the bowl for inflow and outflow of water into the bowl. Including, The trap includes an upward facing shutoff and a downward facing shutoff for enclosing a predetermined amount of air in the trap to regulate the flow of water therethrough, including a lip of the upward facing shutoff. Has an outlet located below a predetermined distance of the bottom of the bowl from which the upwardly shielding portion protrudes, the outlet being formed at a position to adjust a predetermined liquid level in the chamber connected thereto; The trap outlet is configured to stop the flow of water through the trap after submersion of the trap outlet and after the volume of air in the trap reaches a sufficient pressure to allow water in the bowl to rise to the bottom level of at least one passage. And positioned relative to each other in a vertical direction with a lower end of one of the first and second passages, the volume distribution being defined between the lower end of the one passage and the trap outlet. device. In claim 1, The trap outlet is opened in a bell chamber and is formed in a body in which the passage, the trap and the bell chamber are mounted in an electrolyte filling opening of an electrolyte cell, includes releasible locking attachment, and the device The trap and the bell chamber at least partially located within the head space of the electrolyte when is installed in the electrolyte filling opening. In claim 1, A device positioned axially within a body independent of a water passage and comprising a central chamber for transporting gas through the device. In claim 1, A vent passage extending within the device and including a vent port extending through the body wall and adapted to receive gas from the head space of the electrolyte cell; And A vent opening, located adjacent to the upper end of the device, connected to the exhaust passage and including control valve means for providing only one direction flow of gas from the device. Device comprising a. In claim 1, Wherein said device is integrated with an electrolyte cell. A plurality of the devices of claim 1 installed in each electrolyte cell of an electrolyte cell, the plurality of devices circulating water therebetween and varying the level of each electrolyte cell from a single connection to a water source. A system that is hydraulically connected to each other to maintain, leveling and replenishing the electrolyte cells. In claim 1, A device substantially symmetric about an axis in which the device moves axially through the body. In claim 1, A device in which the other of the first and second passages is located such that when the predetermined electrolyte level is achieved inside the electrolyte cell, water entering the device can be moved from the device by the other passage. In claim 1, A heat transfer element protruding downward from a portion of the device in contact with the water entering the device from one of the passages, the heat transfer element having an electrolyte inside the cell such that the heat transfer element transfers thermal energy from the water in the trap to the electrolyte; Condition setting device. An improved water supply device attached to a lead-acid cell that adds water to the cell to control the level of acid electrolyte in the cell, A tubular body having an external feature that the body is formed a predetermined distance from the upper end of the body located outside the cell and below the desired electrolyte level and can be mounted to the cell filling opening having the lower end of the body located within the cell, A pair of water flow ports extending into the body at the upper ends of the body, The body internally defines a water flow passage having a lower portion located below the port between the ports, and the body internally defines a water flow trap having an outlet at the lower end of the body and an inlet connected to the lower portion of the passage. And the electrolyte level in the cell rises to a desired level by passing water through the trap, pressurizes a predetermined amount of air, and traps a predetermined amount of air, so that a certain amount of air is contained in the trap. The relatively vertical position of the trap element and the lower end of the passage is defined in relation to the volume distribution of the trap element and the lower portion of the passage so that it is overflowed by water introduced into the body through one of the ports, the constant amount of air is charged From the cell into the trap during operation and after the desired electrolyte level is achieved To prevent migration of electrolytes device. A method for replenishing an electrolyte cell with water up to a predetermined electrolyte level, Generating a pressure difference between the water inlet passage of the liquid filling device and the water outlet passage allowing water to enter the electrolyte cell through the device's water inlet passage and the device's trap and the device's bell chamber, Forming an amount of trapped air inside the bell chamber and the trap when the electrolyte level reaches the opening end of the bell chamber inside the cell, Pressurizing the amount of air trapped in the device by continuous movement of water into the electrolyte cell until the pressure of the trapped air is at least equal to the head pressure of water in the device due to the level of water in the device, And Stopping the movement of water into the electrolyte cell to achieve a predetermined electrolyte level when the head pressure of water in the device is at least equal to the pressure of trapped air Including, The predetermined electrolyte level is achieved regardless of the pressure of water entering the device, and the trapped volume of air prevents electrolyte from passing into the trap during replenishment operation and after the predetermined electrolyte level is achieved. Way. A method for replenishing multiple electrolyte cells of an electrolyte cell with water up to a predetermined electrolyte level, Having a separate water inlet and outlet passage therein, Trap Having Providing a liquid filling device in each cell, Generating a pressure difference between the water inlet passage of the first liquid filling device and the water outlet passage for allowing water to enter the first electrolyte cell through the water inlet passage of the first device and the trap of the device and the bell chamber of the device , Forming an amount of trapped air inside the bell chamber and trap of the first device when the electrolyte level reaches the open end of the bell chamber inside the first cell, Pressurizing a predetermined amount of air trapped in the first device by the continuous movement of water into the first electrolyte cell, Stopping the movement of water into the first electrolyte cell to achieve a predetermined electrolyte level when the pressure of the trapped air is at least equal to the head pressure of water in the device, and To replenish the electrolyte, a hydrodynamically connected device enters the first device through the water outlet passage of the first device and levels the next electrolyte cell respectively, and a predetermined electrolyte level is achieved for each electrolyte cell. Circulating water continuously through the hydraulically connected device until Including, The predetermined electrolyte level is achieved regardless of external pressure conditions. Way. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete