NO343845B1 - Connection module and connector - Google Patents

Description

Background for the invention

This invention relates to a connection module and a coupling piece. In particular, the invention relates to a coupling piece and a connection module for use in connecting instrumentation equipment to a fluid container, such as a process line or pressure vessel.

Within the instrumentation industry, it is necessary to take fluid from a fluid container, such as a process line or pressure vessel, in order to perform measurements of quantities, such as pressure, temperature, flow and fluid level measurements.

The instruments used to make such measurements are typically connected to a fluid container by a system of pipes, manifolds and valves. The connection system may comprise one or more drain connections for draining the fluid container.

The instruments used to make such measurements require maintenance, such as calibration. To accomplish this, it is necessary to modify the flow of fluid between the fluid container and the instrument.

This flow modification is accomplished by several methods, all of which in one way or another require systems that are attached to the main process apparatus by means of threads, flanges, or welding connections. Traditionally, the fluid flows through an isolation valve before flowing through pipes, piping or flanges, to other valves normally located inside a manifold block. This manifold block can either be attached directly to the instrument or attached via another system of piping or wiring. Known arrangements are complicated and require a lot of time and effort to install and remove. This makes instrument maintenance expensive, as removing and reattaching the instrument to a fluid container can take more time than the calibration process itself.

Several other problems are linked to the traditional installation methods.

For example, traditional connection systems are large in scope. These systems require a lot of space and are heavy. Such systems require additional support due to their weight.

Manifold systems have small opening dimensions, typically less than 6 mm, and this can cause several system problems, such as clogging with solid particles inside a system.

The phenomenon known as measurement line fault (MLF) is known in the industry as a potential source of error. This is caused by a combination of the distance between the main process fluid and the instrument, the reduced bore size and the degree of turbulence caused by the amount of connections between the individual elements in the system. Turbulence associated with MLF can prevent accurate measurement with an instrument connected to a fluid reservoir. Reducing the path length for fluid flow between a fluid container and an instrument can reduce turbulence and thus MLF. In known systems, efforts are made to form a small path length. Long track lengths also make leaks more likely and harder to find.

Due to the distance between the fluid container and the instrument, and the need to maintain an appropriate level of viscosity within the fluid, it is sometimes necessary to heat the system, including any manifolds, pipes or wiring.

This process can involve several expensive methods, extensive cladding, electric heating systems or steam heated systems. These systems lead to increased weight, space requirements and additional control systems which lead to higher costs.

An example of a fluid container is a pipeline. Figure 1 shows an example of a pipeline 2, which comprises a plate unit 10 with openings. The plate unit 10 with openings comprises two flanges 4 which form a flange connection. The plate unit 10 with openings also comprises a plate 6 which is held between the two flanges 4. The plate comprises an opening which is smaller than an inner diameter in the pipeline 2, and is thus designed to reduce the flow of the fluid passing through the pipeline 2.

In such an arrangement, fluid can be directed to an instrument via tapping points. In the example shown in Figure 1, suitable tapping points are indicated by an arrow 8. These tapping points 8 are located on one or both sides of the plate.

Pipelines of this type are of a relatively rough construction, and tap openings formed in the tap points 8 may, even if they are in accordance with relevant international standards, be misaligned in relation to each other. This misalignment can exist in all six degrees of freedom (three rectilinear and three rotational directions). One of the spigot connections can thus be misaligned in relation to another spigot connection in each of the x, y or z directions indicated in figure 1. The spigot connections can also be misaligned in such a way that they are crooked. Accordingly, one of the spigot connections may be misaligned relative to another spigot connection in any of the directions of rotation (θx, θy, θz) shown in Figure 1.

This misalignment has previously been compensated for in traditional connection systems by adding extra bends in the pipe or wiring harness to counteract the misalignment.

Traditional connection systems comprise separate components that are typically sourced from different suppliers. The different components can perform different functions. For example, a connection component can be connected directly to a fluid container. A manifold component, including valves etc. may be arranged between a connection component and an instrument component. The instrument component can form a connection to several instrument types, or it can itself comprise an instrument.

The components of such a system must be able to be interconnected. For example, a manifold block can either be attached directly to an instrument or attached via another system of piping or wiring to a fluid container. The connections must ensure leak-free maintenance. The connections must also be able to withstand additional loads due to external forces. The connection should also not be permanent, to enable maintenance.

Traditional connections between the various components of an instrumentation system use threaded connections or flanged arrangements.

Threaded connections cause problems with orientation. Users in the offshore industry also tend to distrust threaded connections due to problems with crevice corrosion and other hidden issues. Also, threaded connections are normally limited to small dimensions, up to about 50 mm in diameter.

Flanged connections take up a lot of space and are heavy. Systems using flanged connections require extra support due to the weight.

All the problems mentioned above are exacerbated by the large number of connections that may be required and the high operating pressures in many pipelines and pressure vessels. In an installation (eg a refinery) that uses many fluid containers (pressure vessels, pipelines, etc.) a large number of connections are needed to attach different instruments to monitor quantities such as pressure and fluid flow. As indicated above, known connection arrangements are cumbersome and require a lot of time and effort to connect and disconnect instruments, for example to perform maintenance. When many instruments and connections are arranged, the time for connection and disconnection is an important factor.

WO 02/088583 A1 describes a coupling piece consisting of several parts which, among other things, includes locking/locking elements which ensure that a top part and a bottom part of an assembly are held in place in relation to each other.

Summary of the Invention

The objectives of the present invention are achieved by a coupling comprising:

first and second opposing jaw elements; and

an insertion point located mainly between the jaw elements for insertion of a projecting part on a corresponding coupling piece, in which the first jaw part comprises a hook part for hooking onto a projection on the projecting part,

wherein the second jaw part comprises an opening for insertion by a displacement of a locking element on the corresponding coupling piece, and characterized in that the coupling piece further comprises an indicator part located mainly in the opening; so that when the locking element is inserted into the opening by displacement, the indicator part is displaced so that it at least partially protrudes from the opening, thereby indicating that the locking element has been inserted into the opening.

Preferred embodiments of the coupling piece are detailed in claims 2 to 7 inclusive.

The objectives of the present invention are also achieved by a module for a module connection unit, the connection unit is suitable for connecting instrumentation equipment with a fluid container, the module comprises a connector according to any of claims 1 to 7.

Preferred embodiments of the module are detailed in claims 9 to 11 inclusive.

The objectives of the present invention are also achieved by a fluid container and module connection unit according to claim 10 or claim 11, connected to the fluid container.

The objectives of the present invention are also achieved by an instrument for a module connection unit, the instrument comprising a connector according to each of claims 1 to 9.

The aims of the present invention are also achieved by a method for connecting instrumentation equipment to a fluid container using a coupling piece and associated coupling piece according to one of claims 3 to 7, the method comprises:

hooking the hook portion of the coupling piece onto the projecting portion of the associated coupling piece; and

arrangement of the opening to enable the locking element to be connected to the opening by displacement, so that the indicator portion at least partially protrudes from the opening.

A connection module for connecting instrumentation equipment with a fluid container is disclosed. The connection module includes a tap connection.

The spigot connection can be used to compensate for misalignment when forming a spigot connection to a fluid container.

The fluid container can, for example, be a pressure vessel or a process line.

More than one tap connection can be arranged. In such examples, each spigot connection can be movable independently of the other spigot connections, in order to achieve increased flexibility.

The spigot connections can be designed to move in multiple ways to correct for misalignment. For example, the spigot connections can be pivotable and/or translationally movable.

In one embodiment, the spigot connection comprises a ball joint. In one embodiment, the spigot connection includes a double ball joint for increased flexibility.

A slotted positioning ring may be provided to assist in orientation of the spigot connection. One or more support elements can be arranged to support the connection module against a surface on the fluid container.

A coupling piece is described which comprises a first and a second jaw element which face each other. The coupling piece also comprises a receiving space located mainly between the jaw elements to receive a projecting portion of a corresponding coupling piece. The first jaw member includes a hook portion for hooking to a portion of the projecting portion. The second jaw element comprises an opening for receiving a locking element on the corresponding coupling piece when displaced.

This connector constitutes a suitable and effective means with which, for example, modules in a module connection unit can be connected together.

In one embodiment, an indicator portion may be located mainly in the opening. In this way, when the locking element is introduced into the opening by displacement, the indicator portion is displaced and protrudes at least partially from the opening. This serves to indicate that the locking element has been inserted into the opening.

A coupling piece is also described which comprises a projecting part designed to be inserted into a receiving space between a first and second jaw element facing each other on a corresponding coupling piece. The projecting portion includes a portion for receiving a chin portion on the first jaw member. The projecting portion also comprises a locking element designed to be connected to an opening in the second jaw element on a corresponding connecting piece by displacement.

In one embodiment, the locking element can be displaceably mounted in an opening in the projecting part. The locking element can be spring-actuated to protrude from the opening, to be introduced by displacement into the opening in the second jaw element.

In one embodiment, the locking element comprises a threaded part for inserting a threaded tool. The tool can thereby be used to pull the locking element into the opening, thereby disconnecting the coupling piece from the corresponding coupling piece.

In one embodiment, the blocking element can be displaceably mounted on a stop element inside the opening. Coupling of the threaded tool and the stop element and rotation of the threaded tool causes the locking element to be displaced along the threads of the threaded tool. This means that the locking element can be pulled into the opening.

A coupling piece is also described which comprises a first and a second jaw element which face each other. The coupling piece also comprises a receiving space located mainly between the jaw elements, to receive a corresponding coupling piece. The first jaw element comprises a hook portion for hooking to the corresponding coupling piece. The second jaw element comprises a locking element for connecting to an opening in the corresponding coupling piece.

Also mentioned is a coupling piece which comprises a projecting part designed to be introduced into a receiving space between a first and second jaw element facing each other on a corresponding coupling piece. The projecting portion includes a portion for receiving a chin portion on the first jaw member. The projecting part also comprises an opening for displaceable insertion of a locking element on the second jaw part of the corresponding coupling piece.

According to another aspect, we have provided a module connection device for connecting instrumentation equipment to a fluid container. The device comprises a connection module of the type described above.

According to another aspect, a module for a module connection device is provided. The connection unit is suitable for connecting instrumentation equipment to a fluid container. The module comprises a connecting piece of the type described above.

The module can be or can comprise a connection module of the type described above.

According to another aspect, there is provided a module connection unit for connecting instrumentation equipment to a fluid container. The device comprises a module of the type described above.

According to another aspect, there is provided a pressure vessel and a modular connection unit of the type described above, connected to the pressure vessel.

According to another aspect, there is provided a process line and a module connection unit of the type described above, connected to the process line.

According to another aspect, a method for connecting instrumentation equipment to a fluid container has been provided. The method comprises connecting a module of the type described above by regulating an orientation for the pin connection.

According to another aspect, a method for connecting instrumentation equipment to a fluid container has been provided. The method comprises hooking the hook portion of a connecting piece of the type described above to the part of a connecting piece of the type described above. The method also includes aligning the opening to enable the locking element to be connected to the opening by displacement.

Brief explanation of the drawings

Examples of embodiments of the present invention shall be described in the following, in the form of examples, with reference to the attached drawings, in which such reference numbers indicate similar elements.

Figure 1 shows an example of a process line, and indicates typical positions for tap connections;

Figure 2 shows several views of a connection module according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figures 3A-D3 show several views of a connection module connected to a pipeline, according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 shows a tap connection which is not part of the present invention; Figure 5 shows a slotted positioning ring for the spigot connection shown in Figure 4, which is not part of the present invention;

Figures 6, 7, 8A and 8B illustrate the degrees of freedom which are not part of the present invention;

Figure 9 shows a tap connection which is not part of the present invention;

Figure 10 shows the connecting pieces in a connection system which is part of the present invention;

Figures 11 and 12 illustrate how the coupling pieces shown in Figure 10 can be connected together;

Figure 13 shows the coupling pieces shown in Figure 10 in a connected state;

Figures 14 and 15 show a module connection system according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figures 16A and 16B illustrate locking means in a connection system such as that shown in Figures 14 and 15;

Figures 17 and 18 show a module connection system according to an embodiment of the invention.

Description of special designs

Examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

Embodiments of this invention include a connection module. The connection module can form part of a larger system, such as a module connection unit, which includes other components, such as an instrument and/or one or more intermediate elements such as modules including valves and manifolds. Embodiments of this invention also include a connector which is suitable for connecting modules in a module connection unit of the type described.

An example of a module connection unit according to an embodiment of the invention and modules that can be included in such a module connection unit shall be described in the following with reference to Figures 2 and 3A-D.

Figure 2 shows several images of a connection module 20. The connection module is suitable for forming part of a module connection unit as described above. The connection module comprises a first and second spigot connection 50. In this example, these are located close to each other, so that together they project outwards from a manifold part 30 on the connection module 20. The manifold part 30 comprises a manifold which forms fluid communication between the spigot connections 50 and the associated outlets 32.

In the present example, and as described below with reference to Figure 3, the outlets 32 can be connected to an intermediate module in the module connection unit, for subsequent fluid communication with an instrument. Fluid can thereby be directed to the instrument so that measurements such as temperature and pressure measurements can be carried out. In other examples, the outlets 32 can be connected directly to an instrument.

The manifold part 30 comprises a pair of valves to shut off fluid flow to the outlets 32. The valves can be operated using one of the arms 24 arranged on the outside of the manifold part 30.

Figures 3A-3D show modules in a module connection unit which is connected to a pipeline 2. The module connection unit comprises a connection module 20 of the type shown in Figure 2. In this example, the connection unit is connected directly to the flanges 4 of the pipeline 2, and a spigot connection is provided on each flange, on either side of an apertured plate (see Figure 3D). Openings are formed in an outer surface of the flanges 4 for connection to the tap connections 50. As described above, these openings may be out of alignment to a certain extent.

In the example shown in Figures 3A-3C, the module connection unit is supported on the pipeline 2 by means of collars 28, through which the pin connections 50 project to the flanges 4, and a series of bolts 26, which can be tightened against the outer surfaces of the flanges 4. In Figure 3D there are more bolts 42 to provide increased stability.

As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the module connection unit in this example comprises a connection module 20 to which an intermediate module 34 is connected. The intermediate module 34 comprises manifolds in its interior to form fluid communication between the outlets 32 from the manifold portion 30 and an instrument (see Figure 3C), which may be mounted on a receiving location 40 on the intermediate module 34. For this purpose, the intermediate module 34 comprises outlet 38 which corresponds to the outlets 32 from the manifold part 30. The intermediate module 34 comprises several valves, which can be operated by means of associated arms 36 arranged on the outside of the intermediate module 34. Fluid flow inside the intermediate module 34 can thereby be regulated.

Figure 3C shows the module connection unit with an instrument 49 connected to the receiving opening 40 in the intermediate module. As described above, in other examples, the intermediate module 34 may be omitted, and an instrument 49 may be connected directly to a connection module, such as the connection module 20.

By arranging a module connection unit, replacement and/or maintenance of the various components is made easier, e.g. modules can be easily replaced. Moreover, to perform a different measurement on the pipeline, it is only necessary to replace the instrument 49 with another instrument to perform the measurement in question.

A module connection unit according to an embodiment of this invention can reduce the time for connection and disconnection, thereby reducing the time and labor required to replace various instruments and/or to remove instruments so that maintenance can be performed.

As described above, the connection module 20 in the module connection unit comprises two spigot connections 50. The spigot connections 50 generally comprise a tubular connection which can be fixed to an opening in the surface of a fluid container. For example, in Figures 3A-3D, the module connection assembly is shown for connection to the flanges 4, the pipeline 2 using the spigot connections 50 and the connection module 20.

According to an embodiment of the invention, the spigot connections 50 are hinged, thereby giving the spigot connections 50 one or more degrees of freedom for movement. In this way, misalignment of the openings in a fluid container to which the tap connections 50 are to be connected can be corrected by regulating the orientation of the tap connections 50.

According to one embodiment of the invention, an articulated spigot connection can be arranged which enables rotation and translatory movement (sideways). According to another embodiment of the invention, an articulated spigot connection may be provided which enables movement of the connection towards and away from the fluid container (these types of movement are called longitudinal movements in the following, as they are mainly parallel to a longitudinal part of the spigot connection). A connection module can comprise one or both types of hinged tap connection. When both types of hinged tap connection are provided, their combined movements can enable a correction of a combination of a rotational, translational and longitudinal misalignment when connected to a fluid container.

A first example of an articulated spigot connection 50 will be described in the following with reference to Figures 4 - 8.

Figure 4 shows a section through an articulated spigot connection 50. According to an embodiment of the invention, the articulated spigot connection can be equipped with a ball joint which enables the articulated spigot connection 50 to be pivoted with two rotational degrees of freedom. Also, according to an embodiment of the invention, more than one ball joint may be provided to provide increased flexibility for the articulated pin connection. Such an example of an articulated spigot connection 50 is shown in Figure 4, where the articulated spigot connection 50 comprises two ball joints. It will be appreciated that more than two ball joints can be arranged, according to system requirements with regard to flexibility.

In figure 4, the articulated spigot connection 50 is shown connected to the manifold part 30 on a connection module 20. The articulated spigot connection 50 comprises an elongated part 51 and a swivel joint component 56. The swivel joint component 56 is located between the elongated part 51 and the manifold part 30. The swivel joint component 56 is connected to the manifold portion 30 with a ball joint 58A. The swivel joint component 56 is also connected to the elongate portion 51 with a ball joint 58B. The swivel joint component therefore forms a double ball joint connection between the manifold part 30 and the elongated part 51.

In use, fluid drawn from a fluid container with the drain connection 50 passes through the openings 43 and 55 formed in the elongate portion 51 and the swivel joint component 56, to flow from the fluid container into the manifold portion 30 of the connection module 20, in the direction shown generally by arrows 82 in Figure 4. To form a watertight seal around the ball joints 58A and 58B, seals 54A and 54B may be provided for the respective ball joints 58A and 58B.

These seals can, for example, be in the form of a rubber O-ring or a compressible gasket. In the example shown in Figure 4, a retaining ring 52 is also arranged between the manifold part 30 and the swivel joint component 56 in the vicinity of the ball joint 58A. The purpose of the retaining ring 52 is to hold the swivel joint component into the associated part of the manifold part 30, thereby ensuring the integrity of the ball joint 58A.

As will be described in the following, the arrangement of one or more ball joints for a pin connection 50 is an example of how an articulated pin connection can be given one or more degrees of freedom (rotational and/or translational). In the example shown in Figure 4, the elongate portion 51 of the hinged pin connection 50 extends through an opening formed in the collar 28. As described in connection with Figure 3, the sleeves form support for the connection module 20 by enabling bolts such as bolts 26 shown in Figure 2 and 3 can be drawn to an outer surface of a fluid container.

In the example shown in Figure 4, the connection module 20 is equipped with a positioning ring 80. The positioning ring 80 is supported inside the collar 28. Another illustration of the positioning ring 80 is shown in Figure 5. It can be seen from Figure 5 that the positioning ring can comprise two halves 81A and 81B, which are brought together to define a slot 83. The slot 83 forms an opening through which this elongate portion 51 of the hinged spigot connection 50 can pass. The positioning ring serves to exert a compression force against the elongate part 51 in order to keep the elongate part 51 in the selected position after orientation, as will be described below.

Figure 6-8 shows examples of degrees of freedom that can be achieved for an articulated spigot connection comprising a double ball joint connection as indicated above.

The arrangement of an articulated spigot connection 50 having a single ball joint enables rotational movements of the articulated spigot connection 50 (or for example of an elongate portion of the articulated spigot connection, such as the elongate portion 51 shown in the figures).

As shown in Figures 6-8, the arrangement of a spigot connection 50 with two ball joints enables translational and rotational degrees of freedom for the spigot connection (elongated portion 51).

In Figure 6, it is shown that the articulated connection with two ball joints enables translational movement of the elongated part 51. The translational movement is achieved by rotation of the swivel joint component 56 between the manifold part 30 and the elongated part 51. In Figure 6, the center line of the inlet of the manifold in the portion 30 indicated by the line 60. The center line of the elongated portion 51 is indicated by the line 62.

In the position of the elongate portion 51 shown in Figure 6, the center line 62 does not coincide with the center line 60, as it would when the swivel joint component is in a non-rotated state. This shows that rotation of the swivel joint component 56 between the manifold portion 30 and the elongated portion 51 enables translational movement of the elongated portion 51 in relation to the manifold portion 30. It will be understood that as the swivel joint component 56 can rotate in two directions of rotation (clockwise and counter-clockwise as shown in figure 6, and clockwise and counterclockwise in the plane perpendicular to the page), translational movement of the elongate portion 51 relative to the manifold portion 30 is possible in two orthogonal, linear directions (these correspond to the directions x and y shown in Figure 1).

Translational movement of this type enables translational misorientation of the openings provided on a fluid container to be corrected.

In figure 7 it is shown that rotation of the swivel joint component 56 together with rotation of the elongated part 51 can enable two degrees of freedom for rotation of the elongated part 51. It will be seen that rotational movement of this type can be combined with translational movement of the type shown in figure 6. In figure 7, the center line of the inlet of the manifold part 30 is shown with line 60, while the center line of the elongated part 51 in the articulated spigot connection 50 is shown with line 64. This shows that the elongated part 51 is rotated in relation to the manifold part 30.

This rotational movement enables rotational misalignment of the openings in a fluid container to be corrected when a connection module is connected to the fluid container.

It will be understood that rotational movement of this type can occur in more than one direction of rotation. This is shown in Figures 8A and 8B. In Figures 8A and 8B, the elongate portion 51 is again aligned rotationally in relation to the manifold portion 30 in two dimensions. The degree of rotation in one of these dimensions can be derived from the rotation of the centerline 64A of the elongated portion 51 relative to the centerline 60 of the manifold portion 30 shown in Figure 8A. The degree of rotation in the second direction of rotation can be derived from the degree of rotation between the center line 60 and the center line 60 of the elongated portion 51, which is indicated by 64b in Figure 8B.

Combinations of translational (lateral) and rotational movement can be used to compensate for and correct misalignments in the openings formed in fluid containers, as described above.

Referring again to Figure 4, in order to connect the connection module 20 with a fluid container, the articulated tap connection 50 is aligned correctly in relation to an opening in the fluid container. Then the elongate part 51 is attached to the opening. This can be done, for example, by using a threaded connection or by welding. To keep the articulated spigot connection in the correct orientation, pressure is applied to the elongate portion 51 by means of the positioning ring 80 and the sleeve 28. When the elongate portion 51 is attached to an opening in the fluid container (e.g., the pipeline 2), bolts 22 are tightened to. This causes an upper edge of the positioning ring 80 to press against a slot that may be provided in the elongate portion 51, thereby pushing the elongate portion inward and toward the manifold portion 30. This compresses the seals 54A and 54B, thereby forming a fluid tight connection between the manifold part 30, the swivel joint component 56 and the elongated part 51.

This also serves to keep the swivel joint component 56 and the elongated portion 51 in the correct orientation.

With reference to Figures 2 and 3A, it will be understood that in this example access to the nuts 22 for tightening and loosening the ball joints is only possible when the intermediate module 34 is disconnected from the manifold part 30. As will be described below, the safety features of a connection described here prevent accidental disconnection between the modules, such as the intermediate module 34 and the manifold part 30. These safety features can consequently prevent access to the nuts 22, thereby preventing accidental disconnection of the elongated part 51.

As described above, and as shown in Figure 3D, multiple bolts 42 may be provided to provide lateral stability for the module-connector assembly. These are arranged on elements that extend outwards from the manifold part 30. As described above, this has the advantage that it entails increased support for the module connection unit. This is particularly useful when there is increased weight due to an intermediate module 34 and a heavy instrument.

Another example of an articulated spigot connection shall be described in connection with Figure 9. This type of articulated spigot connection is the joint for displacement, and may enable longitudinal misalignments to be corrected when a connection module is attached to a fluid container.

The articulated tap connection comprises an elongated part 151, which extends away from the manifold part 30 for connection to a fluid container. As described in the following, the elongated part can be moved back and forth along a longitudinal direction indicated by arrows A and B in figure 9. The elongated part 151 comprises an opening 153, through which fluid can flow from a fluid container and into the manifold part 30 along the direction indicated by the arrows 182 in figure 9.

The elongated part 151 extends through a collar 28. A nut 180 can also be mounted for rotation inside the collar 28. The nut 180 can comprise screw threads, and corresponding screw threads can be formed on the elongated part 151. The screw threads are shown generally at 184 in the figure 9.

The spigot connection may also comprise such means as a press fit 160, which may form a seal between the elongate portion 151 and the manifold portion 30.

To connect the manifold part 30 with a fluid container, the manifold part 30 is placed over an opening in the fluid container so that the elongated element 151 is connected to the opening. In this position, as described above in connection with Figures 3A-3D, the manifold part 30 and any other components attached to it (for example an instrument) can be supported against an outer surface of a fluid container by means of the collar 28 and a series of bolts 26 as well as other bolts 42.

As the elongated part 151 is movable by displacement in relation to the connection module in the directions shown by arrows A and B, after the manifold part 30 has been moved to the desired position, mutual movement of the elongated part 151 in relation to the manifold part 30 can be used to correct longitudinal misalignments in the opening in the fluid container.

When the elongate portion 151 is in the desired position to form a tap connection on the fluid container, a seal can be formed between the elongate portion 151 and the manifold portion 130. This can be achieved by pressing the collar 28 against the manifold portion 30 using a large thread arrangement or bolts such as bolts 22 (figure 2). When such bolts are tightened, this has the effect that a compression sleeve 190 is pressed against compression elements 160. This in turn causes the compression element 160 to exert a compression force inwards towards the elongated part 151, as shown by arrows C and D in figure 9. the compression element 160 against the connection module at 186. A seal is thereby formed which prevents leakage of fluid from the opening 153.

To reduce the stress exerted on the compression member 160, the nut 180 can be tightened on the threads of the elongate portion 151. When screwed into place, the nut 180 holds the elongate portion in place and presses against the collar 28, thereby preventing the high load is applied to the compression element where it meets the connection module at 186.

There is thus described an articulated spigot connection with an offset which can be used to compensate for and correct longitudinal misalignments between openings formed in fluid containers, as described above.

In some examples, a connection module with only a single tap connection may be required. According to one embodiment of the invention, this spigot connection is an articulated spigot connection as described above.

In other examples, more than one tap connection may be provided in a connection unit. For example, a fixed spigot connection and an articulated spigot connection can be arranged. Alternatively, more than one hinged tap connection can be arranged. For example, two rotatable/translational connections or two articulated spigot connections with displacement can be arranged. In another example, combinations of different types of hinged spigot connections (for example, a rotation/translation connection and a displacement hinged spigot connection) may be provided. This combination can enable different types of misalignments to be corrected in a single manifold portion 30.

In the embodiments described above in connection with Figures 2 and 3, the connection unit comprises two tap connections. In this example, both spigot connections can be articulated spigot connections of the type described in connection with figure 4-9. In other examples, one of the tap connections may be a fixed tap connection and the other tap connection may be an articulated tap connection. In this way, misalignment between two openings can be compensated for by fitting the fixed spigot connection in one of the openings and then realigning the articulated spigot connection to compensate for any misalignment of the opening. As described above, it will be understood that the use of combinations of fixed and articulated spigot connections in this way can be used in connection units comprising more than two spigot connections.

With reference to figure 1, it will be understood that the use of a connection module comprising two articulated spigot connections, one which is a spigot connection for displacement as described in connection with figure 9 and another which is one for rotation and translation described in connection with figure 4 - 8, can compensate for misalignment of the two flanges 4 in the x, y and z directions and in the rotational directions θx, θy and θz. A connection module 20 of the type shown in Figures 2 and 3, which comprises two articulated plug connections, can comprise one plug connection of each type.

Assembly of such a connection module 20 shall be described with continued reference to figures 1-9.

To connect a connection module 20 comprising the two types of articulated tap connections with a fluid line, the connection module 20 is first placed over openings formed in the fluid container. At this stage, the elongate portion 151 of the offset-mounted hinged spigot connection can be positioned and connected to a first opening in the fluid container. The elongated part 51 of the connection for rotation and translation can be placed loosely for subsequent connection to another opening in the fluid container.

Compression elements 160 in the hinged displacement spigot connection can then be sealed as described in connection with Figure 9, by upward compression of collar 28 and compression collar 190 and tightening of nut 180.

After positioning, connecting and sealing the hinged displacement spigot, the spigot for rotation and translation can be connected to the second opening in the fluid container. It will be understood that at this stage, offset movement of the hinged pin connection for displacement enables correct placement of the pin connection for rotation and translation, to compensate for any longitudinal misalignment (see, for example, the z-direction indicated in Figure 1) between the two openings in the fluid container .

The elongated element 51 in the pivot connection for rotation and translation can be placed as described in connection with Figures 6 - 8 to compensate for any rotational/translational misalignment between the two openings. Once in place, the pivot connection for rotation and translation can be sealed as described in connection with Figure 4, by compressing the collar 28 and placing the ring 80 against the connection module 20. Finally, the bolts 26 and 42 can be adjusted, if desired.

It will be understood that the connection process is easy to perform and can be completed very quickly (eg in less than 1 minute). Disconnection of the connection module 20 from the fluid container is correspondingly fast. This is in contrast to the previous, cumbersome connection systems described above, which take much longer to connect and disconnect.

Accordingly, a connection module is described for connecting instrumentation equipment (for example a measuring instrument) with a fluid container such as a pipeline. The connection module comprises one or more articulated tap connections. The articulated tap connection enables misalignment to be compensated for by connecting, for example, a connection module, for example a module connection unit, and a fluid container.

Embodiments of this invention also relate to a coupling piece. The connector can be used to connect two objects. In the examples described here, these objects may be modules in a module connection unit. The connector described here enables separate items such as modules in the module connection unit to be connected and disconnected in a manner that is fast, convenient and robust.

An example of the coupling piece shall be described in the following in connection with Figures 10-13.

Figure 10 shows a first image of a connection system according to an embodiment of this invention. As shown in Figure 10, the coupling system comprises a coupling 100 and an associated coupling 110. In Figure 10, the coupling 100 and the associated coupling 110 are shown in an unconnected state.

As used herein, the terms "link" and "associated link" are interchangeable, as each link in the link system corresponds to the other link in the link system.

As can be seen from figure 10, the coupling 110 comprises a hook part 112. The hook part 112 is designed to be hooked onto a projection 102 which is designed on the coupling 100. The coupling 110 comprises a first and second jaw 113 and 114. The chin part 112 is part of the first jaw 113. The coupling 110 also comprises an insertion space 116, which is mainly located between a first and second jaw 113 and 114.

The insertion space is designed (with regard to size and shape) for the insertion of a projecting part 101 on the coupling 100.

In the example shown in Figure 10, the coupling 100 comprises an opening 104. The opening 104 is designed for the introduction of a locking element which can extend displaceably from the second jaw 114 on the coupling 110. As will be described in more detail below, this arrangement can mainly be reversed , so that an opening can be formed in the second jaw 114 of the coupling 110, for displaceable insertion of a locking element that projects from the projecting part 101 of the coupling 100.

Figure 11 shows how the coupling 100 and the coupling 110 can be connected together.

As shown in Figure 11, in order to connect the connector 100 with the associated connector 110, the hook portion 112 of the connector 110 can first be hooked onto or connected to the protrusion 102 formed in the projecting portion 101 of the connector 100. When the hook portion 112 is hooked to the protrusion 102, the coupling 110 can be swung as indicated by the arrow 102 in figure 11, so that the second jaw 114 can form contact with a bottom part of the projecting part 101 of the coupling 100. When the lower jaw 114 of the coupling 110 is guided along the lower part of the projecting part 101, the locking element which is arranged either in the projecting part 101 or in the second jaw element 114 can be moved into an opening formed in either the lower jaw element 114 or in the projecting part 101.

Figure 12 shows the coupling system in the coupled state, with the coupling 100 connected to the coupling 110. In the coupled state, the hook portion is hooked to the projection 102, and a locking mechanism shown generally at 105 is connected. As indicated above, this may involve a locking element being displaceably inserted into an opening. The opening and the locking element may be formed in the projecting portion and the second jaw element 114, or vice versa.

Figure 13 shows that a locking element 118 can be inserted displaceably (in a direction indicated by the arrow) from the second jaw element 114 and into an opening 104 formed in the projecting part 101 of the coupling 100.

The coupling described above can be included in the modules of a module connection unit to form means by which the modules in the unit can be connected together.

The hooking and pivoting motion required to connect the two modules using these connectors is easy to perform and requires no special tools. To disengage the links, it is necessary to disengage the locking element 118 and to swing the link 110 in a direction substantially opposite to the direction shown by arrow 112 in figure 10, followed by unhooking the hook portion 112 from the projection 102.

Figures 14 and 15 show an example of a connection system that is part of the modules in a module connection unit. In this example, the connector 100 is arranged in a connection module 20 of the type described above in connection with Figures 3A-3C. The connecting piece 110 is part of an intermediate module 34 of the type described above in connection with Figures 2 and 3. In Figure 14, the connection system is shown in the connected state, with the connecting module 20 being connected to the intermediate module 34, and in this illustration the connecting piece is 100 is on the right and the coupling piece 110 is on the left.

In the example shown in Figure 14, a locking element 118 is arranged mainly inside an opening 124 in the projecting part 102 of the coupling piece 100. The locking element 118 is displaceably mounted in the opening. The locking element in this example is force-affected by a force-exerting element 126 so that it protrudes from the opening 124. The force-exerting element 126 is in this example a coil spring 126, but other force-exerting means can also be used (e.g. leaf spring).

As shown in Figure 14, the locking element 118 is forced so that it projects out of the opening 124 and into an opening 104 which is formed in the second jaw 114. In this example, a stop element 130 can be arranged in the projecting part 102 of the coupling piece 100 The stop element 130 projects into the opening 124. In this example, the blocking element 118 comprises a slot, in which the stop element 130 is inserted. Accordingly, the blocking element 118 in this example is displaceably mounted on the stop element 130.

To connect the coupling piece 100 with the coupling piece 110, the steps described above in connection with figures 10-13 can be carried out. An example of how the coupling piece can be disconnected shall be described in connection with figures 14 and 15.

To disconnect the coupling piece 100 from the coupling piece 110, it may be necessary to disengage the locking element 118. To do this, the locking element 118 can be fed back into the opening 124 and out of the opening 104 in the second jaw 114. To do this, a threaded tool can is introduced into the opening 124 at an end of the opening 124 opposite to where the locking element 118 protrudes from the opening 124.

The end of the locking element 118 farthest from the second jaw 114 comprises an opening 128 which is threaded with threads corresponding to the threads of the threaded tool. To insert the locking element 118 into the opening 114, the threaded element is screwed into the opening 128 until it hits the stop element 130. The user then continues to turn the threaded tool so that the locking element 118 is moved upwards along the threads of the threaded tool, thereby inserting the locking element 118 back into the opening 124. This return of the locking element 118 in the opening 124 is counterbalanced by the spring 126. When the locking element 118 has been moved back sufficiently so that it is no longer inserted into the opening 104 in the second jaw 114, the coupling piece 110 can be released and hooked of the coupling piece 100, mainly as described above.

The example shown in Figures 14 and 15 includes a safety mechanism to prevent the connection system from being disconnected while the valves in the connection module 20 are open. The safety mechanism comprises a displaceable element 120 which is inserted into a slot 123 in the connection module 20. The displaceable element 120 can be force-affected by a force-exerting element such as a coil spring 121. When the displaceable element 120 protrudes from the slot 123, it covers the opening 124. When the coupling piece 100 is connected to the coupling piece 110, the displaceable element 120 is withdrawn from the opening 124. This withdrawal can be carried out using a handle 122 which protrudes from one side of the manifold part 30. It should be pointed out that in this example the handle 122 can be inserted into grooves 140 which are formed inside the arms 24. However, these grooves are so oriented inside the arms 24 that the grooves are only aligned with the handle 122 when the arms 24 are positioned such that the valves inside the manifold part 30 are in the closed position. Accordingly, movement of the displaceable element 120 using the handle 122 is only possible when the valves in the connection module are closed. Consequently, it is not possible to gain access to the opening 124 in the coupling piece 100 for the introduction of a threaded tool to disconnect the coupling piece 100 from the coupling piece 110, without the valves in the manifold section 30 being closed. Consequently, disconnection of the connection module 20 and the intermediate module 34 is prevented when the valves in the connection module 20 are open.

Figures 16A and 16B show the movement of the arms 24 and handle 122 to disconnect the connection module 20 and the intermediate module 34. In Figure 16A, the arms 24 are in the "open" position to allow fluid to flow through the connection assembly. The grooves 140 are apparently not aligned with the handle 122 while the arms 24 are in this position. By rotating the arms 24 in the direction shown by arrows B in Figure 16A, the valves in the manifold portion 30 are closed to block fluid flow through the unit. As shown in Figure 16b, when the arms 24 are in the "closed" position, the slots 24 are aligned to enable movement of the handle 122 in the direction shown by arrows A in Figure 16B. As described above, movement of the handle 122 in this manner retracts the displaceable member 120 and allows access for insertion of a tool to retract the locking member 118.

In other examples of a connection system, the locking element 188 can be actuated by something other than a force-exerting element such as the coil spring 126. The locking element can be actuated by electrical or other means.

In the example shown in figure 14, the second jaw 114 is equipped with an indicator part 132. One end 134 of the indicator part can be light colored so that it is clearly visible when it protrudes from the opening 104 in the second jaw 114. The indicator part 132 is displaceably mounted mainly inside the opening 104. In this example, force is applied to the indicator part 132 by means of a force-exerting element such as a coil spring 136, in order to be held inside the opening 104. When the locking element 118 is displaceably introduced into the opening 104, it comes into contact with the indicator part 132, however and drives the indicator part outwards from the opening 104. When the indicator part comes out of the opening 104, this can be taken as an indication that the blocking element 118 has been correctly inserted into the opening 104, thereby forming an indication that a good connection has been achieved.

Figures 17 and 18 show another example of safety means that can be included in a coupling according to an embodiment of this invention. In this example, a safety mechanism is arranged which in some ways resembles the safety mechanism described above in connection with figures 14-16. In addition to preventing the accidental removal of, for example, an intermediate module 34, while the arms 24 in the manifold portion 30 are in the "open" position, the mechanism shown in Figures 17 and 18 also prevents accidental opening of the arms 24 while, for example, an intermediate module 34 is not connected to the manifold part 30. This prevents fluid from being accidentally released until the manifold part is put in place. While the example of connection between an intermediate module 34 and a manifold part 30 is used here, it will be understood that a safety mechanism of this type can be used for connections between other types of module in a module connection unit.

With reference to Figures 17 and 18, the safety mechanism comprises a displaceable element 120 which is acted upon by a force-exerting element such as a coil spring 121, a handle 122 and arms 24 which comprise alignment grooves as described above in connection with Figures 14-16. In addition, the mechanism comprises a first pin 200 and a second pin 204. The first pin 200 is located in a slot in the coupling piece 100 and is force-actuated outwards from the slot by a force-exerting element 202. The second pin 204 is force-actuated against an upper edge of the first pin 200 of a force-exerting element 206. In this example, the displaceable element 120 comprises two slots shown at 210, into which the second pin 204 can be inserted to prevent displacement movement of the displaceable element 120 (this is shown in Figure 18). The first pin 200 also comprises a groove 212 into which the second pin 204 can be inserted (this is shown in figure 17).

Figure 17 shows the coupling pieces 100 and 110 in the connected position. In this position, the coupling piece 110 forces the first pin 200 back into the coupling piece 100, against the force of the force exerting element 202. In this position, the groove 212 in the first pin 200 is aligned with the second pin 204, and the second pin 204 is pressed in in the groove 212 by the force of the force-exerting element 206. While the second pin 204 is held in the groove 212 by the first pin 200, the second pin is not inserted into a groove 210 in the displaceable element 120, and the displaceable element 120 can freely move as long as the grooves in the arms 24 are correctly aligned with the handle 122, as described above.

When the coupling piece 110 is disconnected from the coupling piece 100, for example as described in connection with Figures 14-16, the first pin 200 is pushed outwards from the coupling piece 100, to a position shown in Figure 18. It should be pointed out that when disconnection occurs, the displaceable the element generally be in a returned position where it has just enabled access to the opening 124 for the introduction of a tool for returning the blocking element 118. When the first pin 200 is pushed out from the coupling piece 100, the second pin is pushed out from the slot 212 against the force in it the force-exerting element 206. This pushes the second pin 204 into one of the slots 210 in the displaceable element 120. While the second pin 204 occupies the slot 210 as shown in Figure 18, the displaceable element and thus the handle 122 cannot be moved back and forth . This prevents the arms 24 from being moved to the open position, as this movement is blocked by the handle 122, which is located in the grooves 140 in the arms 24 (see Figures 16A and 16B). Thus, while the coupling piece 100 and 110 are disconnected, the arms 24 cannot be moved, and the valves controlled by the arms 24 cannot be opened.

When the connector 110 is connected to the connector 100, the first pin is driven back into the connector 100, and the slot 212 is re-aligned with the second pin 204. The second pin re-enters the slot 212, thereby enabling the displaceable element and the handle 122 can be moved. When the handle 122 is removed from the slots 140, the arms 24 can be operated to open the valves which they control.

They are thus described as a safety feature which prevents accidental operation of the arms while the coupling pieces 110 and 110 are disconnected.

Although particular embodiments of the invention have been described, it will be understood that many modifications and additions and/or substitutions may be made within the scope of the invention.

Claims (14)

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Connecting piece (110) comprising: first and second opposing jaw members (113, 114); and an insertion point (116) located mainly between the jaw elements for insertion of a projecting part on a corresponding coupling piece (100), in which the first jaw part comprises a hook part (112) for hooking onto a projection on the projecting part, wherein the second jaw part comprises an opening for insertion by displacement of a locking element (118) on the corresponding coupling piece, and c a r a c t e r i s i n that the coupling piece further comprises an indicator part (132) located mainly in the opening; so that when the locking element (118) is introduced into the opening by displacement, the indicator part (132) is displaced so that it at least partially protrudes from the opening, thereby indicating that the locking element (118) has been introduced into the opening. 2. Connecting piece according to claim 1, in which the indicator (132) is force-affected to stay in the opening. 3. A coupling piece according to claim 1 or claim 2, and an associated coupling piece (100) which comprises a projecting part (102) designed to be inserted into the receiving space between the first and second jaw elements, the projecting part comprising: a projection for receiving the chin portion of the first jaw member; and a locking element (118) designed to be introduced into the opening in the second jaw element by displacement. 4. Coupling piece and associated coupling piece according to claim 3, in which the locking element (118) is displaceably mounted in an opening (124) in the cantilevered part (102). 5. Coupling piece and associated coupling piece according to claim 3 or claim 4, in which the locking element (118) is influenced by yielding force to protrude from the opening and to be introduced by displacement into the opening in the second jaw element. 6. Coupling piece and associated coupling piece according to claim 5, in which the locking element (18) comprises a threaded part for inserting a threaded tool for returning the locking element into the opening, thereby disconnecting the coupling pieces. 7. Coupling piece and associated coupling piece according to claim 6, in which the blocking element (118) is displaceably mounted on a stopping element (130) into the opening, so that coupling of the threaded tool with the stopping element and rotation of the threaded tool causes the blocking element to be moved along the threads of the threaded tool for returning the locking element into the opening. 8. Module for a modular connection unit, the connection unit is suitable for connecting instrumentation equipment to a fluid container, the module comprises a connector (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 7. 9. Module according to claim 8, comprising one or more valves and an interconnection mechanism to prevent opening of one or more of the valves when the connector (110) on a module is not connected to an associated connector. 10. Module connection unit for connecting instrumentation equipment with a fluid container, the unit comprising a module according to one of claims 8 to 9. 11. Module connection unit according to claim 10 and an instrument connected to the unit. 12. Fluid container and module connection unit according to claim 10 or claim 11, connected to the fluid container. 13. Instrument for a module connection unit, the instrument comprising a connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9. 14. Method for connecting instrumentation equipment with a fluid container using a coupling piece (110) and associated coupling piece (100) according to one of claims 3 to 7, the method comprises: hooking the hook portion (112) of the coupling piece onto the projecting portion (102) of the associated coupling piece; and arrangement of the opening to enable the locking element (118) to be connected to the opening by displacement, so that the indicator part (132) at least partially protrudes from the opening.