JPH0344224B2 - - Google Patents

Description

[Detailed description of the invention]

TECHNICAL FIELD This invention generally relates to refueling systems for vehicles or other equipment refueled with low pressure natural gas or other hydrocarbon gas fuels. More particularly, the present invention uses high surface area sorbents (adsorbents and/or sorbents) to filter gaseous fuels and/or to store quantities of gaseous fuels. Furthermore, the present invention relates to the above-mentioned fuel replenishing device in which it is desirable to use a gas compression device that is airtightly sealed in order to pressurize the gas fuel to a predetermined pressure. (Prior Art and its Problems) Over the years, the possibilities of using conventional fuels (gasoline and diesel fuel) in internal combustion engine vehicles, the operating costs, the fuel efficiency of such vehicles and the impact of vehicle emissions on the outside world have been increasing. There has been growing concern about the harmful effects. Because of this interest,
Great emphasis has been placed on developing replacements for such traditional vehicle fuels. One such emphasis is on developing vehicles that are fueled by natural gas or other methane gas fuels, whether as the sole fuel or as one of the fuels in a dual fuel system. It was hot. As a result, vehicles using such fuels have been developed and are currently in use on a relatively limited scale, both domestically and internationally. In order to provide such a gas refueling vehicle with an affordable refueling range, it has previously been necessary to store gas fuel inside the vehicle under very high pressure, generally in the range of approximately 13,780 to 20,670 kpa. It was hot. Without storing fuel in the vehicle at such high pressure, the actual fuel storage capacity of such vehicles would be limited due to the volume and weight ratios of conventional fuels to approximately 3.7 to 19 liters of energy equivalent. Ta. Thus, only by compressing gaseous fuel to such high pressures could the in-vehicle fuel storage capacity of such vehicles be increased. One of the disadvantages of the compressed gas fuel system mentioned above is that
The problem was that they required complex and relatively expensive refueling equipment to compress the fuel to such high pressures. Therefore, such a refueling device completely eliminates the possibility of refueling a vehicle from a user's home natural gas supply system, as it is economically impractical. Furthermore, such high pressure equipment has often been perceived by the general public to be more dangerous than low pressure equipment. For example, the general public has already become accustomed to refrigerant pressures in domestic refrigerant installations in the range of approximately 1380 kPa and does not consider such low pressures to be objectionable. An alternative to the fuel storage and vehicle refueling range issues discussed above is to store vehicle fuel in liquid form, typically at or near atmospheric pressure, so that a sufficient amount of fuel can be delivered to the vehicle and is affordable. The objective was to be able to provide a refueling range. However, such liquefied gas storage methods also require extraordinarily complex and expensive cryogenic equipment both on-board and at the refueling station to establish and maintain the required low gas temperatures. It has been found to be disadvantageous because of However, it has been discovered that the use of high surface area adsorbents in fixed installations in non-vehicle gaseous fuel storage methods can significantly increase fuel storage at relatively low pressures. Such adsorbents typically include, for example, zeolites, activated carbon, silica gel, and various clays. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 2,712,730, issued to Spangler on July 12, 1958, describes a method for storing various (liquefied) hydrocarbon gases using adsorbents to increase the fuel storage capacity of stationary systems. The equipment has been clarified. However, despite considerable and extensive research and development efforts in the field of gas-fueled vehicles, sorbent fuel storage technology has not yet been applied to onboard fuel storage systems and their replenishment systems. To date, no applications have been filed for natural gas fuel storage or replenishment systems. In fact, the compressed natural gas and liquefied natural gas systems described above have generally been considered to be two systems that can only be used for natural gas powered vehicles. Therefore, there is a need for a practical and inexpensive refueling system that can store reasonable quantities of on-board fuel at relatively low pressures and that allows users to refuel such vehicles into the domestic natural gas supply system. This is what happened. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, a device for supplying fuel to a gas fuel consuming device, such as a vehicle, a lawn mower, or a snowplow, is coupled and mounted in fluid communication with a gas fuel supply source to compress the fuel. consisting of means for increasing the pressure to a predetermined value, cooling means for reducing the temperature of the compressed gaseous fuel, and evacuation means removably connected and attached to the gaseous fuel consuming device. . The gaseous fuel supply system simultaneously includes sorption filter means for substantially removing impurities and predetermined fuel components from the fuel and sorption storage means for sorptionally storing a quantity of the previously compressed gaseous fuel; The compressed gaseous fuel is supplied to the fuel consuming device from either the sorption storage means or, if such storage means is incorporated, the compression means by traversing the storage means, via the exhaust means. It is desirable to have an automatic control device built in that allows the As used herein, the terms "sorbent" and "sorptive" are used to apply to adsorption and/or absorption. In the preferred embodiment, the pressure of the compressed gaseous fuel supplied to the fuel consumer typically ranges from approximately 1380 to
It is in the range of 2760kPa. Further, the compression means preferably comprises one or more hermetically sealed gas compressors for compressing the gaseous fuel to such pressure, the compressors being typically found in refrigeration equipment. It is preferable to use a gas compressor type. One of the principal objects of the present invention is to provide a refueling device that is considerably cheaper to manufacture than those of the prior art, is compact, modular, and can be connected to a user's home natural gas or other gas fuel supply system. The goal is to provide the following. Another objective is to provide such a device that is convenient to consume, safe and inexpensive to operate and use. Vehicles of the type referred to herein are as disclosed and described in the patent application entitled "Hydrocarbon Gas Fuel Storage System and Vehicle Engine System." Such a vehicle and the refueling system illustrated herein are also disclosed in a patent application entitled "Hydrocarbon Gas Fuel Storage System and Engine System for Vehicle Body and Associated Refueling System". Both of the above specifications, which are hereby incorporated by reference, are assigned to the same assignee and filed on the same date as the present application. Additional objects, advantages, and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. (Embodiment) FIGS. 1 to 6 show an embodiment of the refueling device according to the present invention for the purpose of illustration. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the principles of the present invention are equally applicable to gas refueling systems other than the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings. Referring to FIG. 1, a refueling module or device 10 includes a housing 1 comprising a louvered portion 14 through which air can flow and a control panel 16 located above the louvered portion 14.
It is desirable that it be surrounded by 2. Initially, although the control panel 16 is located on the housing 12 in the exemplary replenishment device, the present invention also contemplates the case of a remote control panel mounted remotely from the replenishment module, such as within a user's home. Please note that there are. A flexible outlet tube 20 with a suitable connector 22 is attached to its free end and is removably connected to a vehicle body or other gaseous fuel consuming device for discharging gaseous fuel in that direction.
As discussed in more detail below, the present exemplary replenishment device 10 is preferably configured to be housed in a small, unobtrusive, modular package and is operable from a standard domestic power system (e.g., a 110-230 volt power supply). The system is designed to provide a convenient and easy-to-operate system for refueling gas-powered vehicles or other devices at home. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the invention are equally applicable to larger types of refueling modules, such as those that can be installed commercially and, for example, refuel multiple vehicles simultaneously. It will be easy to understand. Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, perspective and schematic views of refueling module 10 are generally illustrated. Refueling module 10 is configured with an inlet 28 adapted to connect to gaseous fuel supply system 30 by conventional connector arrangements of a type well known to those skilled in the art. Gas fuel supply system 30
The system preferably consists of a natural gas supply system such as that commonly found in many residential and commercial facilities. Illustrated supply module 1
0 also constitutes a pair of manual shutoff valves 32, which can be used to shut off the module during extended periods of non-use, or to isolate the module from the supply system 30 for maintenance or repair of the module. desirable. The gas fuel supplied from the supply system 30 is
The gas is typically under a pressure of, for example, 1.72 kPa, and enters the inlet 40 of the first stage gas compressor 42 via the electric solenoid valve 34, the dry filter device 36 and the check valve 38. It is desirable to do so. A variety of drying filters may be used to remove water vapor or other moisture from the incoming gaseous fuel, including sorbents such as activated carbon, zeolite materials, silica gel-type materials, or various clays. It is desirable to use it as a drying filter 36. The first stage gas compressor 42 increases the pressure of the gaseous fuel to a predetermined desired pressure level by compressing it. In one of the actual configuration examples (original models) of the present invention, the set gas pressure in the discharge pipe 44 of the first stage gas compressor 42 was generally in the range of 34 to 414 kPa. Although the exact pressure in a particular embodiment of the invention will of course depend on the pressure within the discharge pipe 44, one additional compressor may be used.
It may vary depending on various operating conditions and design factors, such as whether the refueling module is configured to further compress the gas fuel, as well as other factors as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art. . Gas fuel flows into the discharge pipe 44 of the first stage gas compressor 42 via a gas cooler 50. It is preferable to configure it so that it can be sprayed. In the prototype of the replenishment module 10 actually constructed, the temperature of the gas fuel entering the gas cooler 50 is at most approximately
At 116 degrees, the gas fuel temperature at the outlet of gas cooler 50 was approximately equal to ambient temperature. gas cooler 50
Although shown in the drawings as being comprised of the above-described cooling coil device, those skilled in the art will appreciate that it is possible to reduce the temperature of the compressed gas fuel flowing from the discharge pipe 44 of the first stage gas compressor 42. It will be readily appreciated that other types of heat exchanger devices or cooling means may be used instead. From the gas cooler 50, the compressed gas fuel passes through a lubricant filter and separator 56, an interstage accumulator or pulsation chamber 58, and a check valve 60.
The fuel flows into the suction pipe 62 of the second stage gas compressor 64 where it is to be further compressed to further increase its pressure to another predetermined pressure level. Lubricant filter and separator 56 may comprise any number of known filter-type devices adapted to remove lubricating oil or liquid from the gas flow passing therethrough. Lubrication filter and separator 5
6 serves to return compressor lubricant to the suction pipe 40 of the first stage gas compressor 42 in a manner described in detail below. The pulsation chamber 58 is an accumulator type container, and functions to attenuate gas pressure surging and pulsation from the first stage compressor 42. It has unexpectedly been discovered that hermetically sealed gas compressors of the type commonly used in refrigeration systems are ideal for use as the first and second stage compressors described above. Such compressors are inexpensive, durable, and readily available as stock items. It will be appreciated that those skilled in the art will readily understand that other compressors can be used instead. The second stage gas compressor 64 further compresses the previously compressed gaseous fuel to a pressure in the range of approximately 689-2760 kPa, preferably such discharge pressure is approximately 2070-2415 kPa. It goes without saying that the exact discharge pressure from the second stage gas compressor 64 depends on the pressure within the discharge pipe 66. If you are a person skilled in the art,
It is easy to see that a single two-stage compressor, or even a single single-stage compressor, can replace the two compressors 42 and 64 to compress gaseous fuel to a predetermined pressure. Needless to say, it will be. In such cases, a single two-stage compressor is preferably provided with appropriate inlets and outlets for communicating the gas cooler 50 between the stages. If instead only a single, single stage compressor is used, the gas cooler 50 would be connected to the discharge side of such a compressor. From the discharge pipe 66 of the second stage gas compressor 64, the compressed gas fuel enters a gas cooler where it is cooled again from a maximum temperature of approximately 116 degrees Celsius to approximately ambient temperature at the outlet of the gas cooler. It is desirable to flow back through 50 minutes. Thereafter, the cooled and compressed gas fuel is passed through the aforementioned lubricating filter and separator 5.
6 and flows through a second lubricant filter and separator 68 which serves the same role of returning the compressor lubricant to the inlet 62 of the second stage gas compressor 64, as detailed below. It turns out. Optical moisture removal means can be configured downstream of the lubricant filter and separator 68, since at ambient temperatures most gaseous fuels can contain vaporized or entrained lubricant moisture. It goes without saying that such a moisture removal means can be selected if it is considered desirable or necessary. Two of the alternative embodiments of optional moisture removal means are shown in Figures 5A and 5B.
It is shown in the figure and will be explained in detail below. The previously cooled and compressed gaseous fuel then passes through a check valve 70 and one or more filters 7.
It is desirable to flow into 2. Sorption filter 7
2 preferably constitutes a chamber containing a sorbent such as zeolite, activated carbon, silica gel or various clays. Sorptive filter 7
2 serves to remove any remaining compressor lubricant and other materials, and preferably also serves to remove so-called "heavy" components of the gaseous fuel. Generally speaking, such heavy components constitute propane and other components that are heavier than methane. The purpose of such heavy components is to maximize the storage tank capacity onboard the vehicle (or other gaseous fuel consuming device) and to provide the components of the gaseous fuel for which the vehicle engine or other fuel consuming device is designed. is to store it sorbently. From the sorbent filter 72, compressed gaseous fuel flows through a check valve 76 and then into an inlet 78 for one or more optional sorption reservoirs 82 or refills. into the module exhaust system 86. The path of fuel flow relies on the operation of a control system (described below) that automatically opens and closes various solenoid valves in response to various gas pressures throughout the system. Note that the attachment of sorption reservoir 82 is optional, but desirable. Providing an even less expensive refueling system according to the present invention that completely eliminates the need for sorbent storage tanks (and their associated control equipment) or constitutes a sorbent-free storage tank therein. be able to. If the outlet tube 20 is removed from a vehicle or other gaseous fuel consuming device and the gas pressure within the sorbent reservoir 82 is below a predetermined pressure level, the compressed gaseous fuel will be removed from the outlet 78 and the preferably electrically powered solenoid valve. 80 and will refill the sorbent container. Such refilling of the storage container 82 may occur if the outlet pipe 20 is still connected to the vehicle storage system 100 and the pressure within the vehicle storage container or tank is at or above a predetermined pressure level of approximately 2070-2415 kPa. The same thing will happen if there is. Alternatively, if the pressure within the vehicle's storage tank is below such a predetermined pressure level, a control system (described below) directs compressed gas fuel into outlet pipe 20 via electric solenoid valve 90. Alternatively, it may be desirable to flow into a manual drain valve 96 incorporated within connector assembly 22. A check valve 101 is preferably configured within the vehicle's storage system 100 to prevent gaseous fuel from returning to the refueling system. A discharge pipe 88 is downstream of the solenoid valve 90.
It is desirable to provide compressed gas fuel to discharge compressed gas fuel from the outlet pipe 20 when the connector 22 is removed from the vehicle body or other gas fuel consuming device after the refueling operation is completed. As detailed below,
A preferred control system is an electric solenoid valve 94.
automatically triggers an opening action to release the discharged compressed gas fuel into the storage chamber or container 98. Once the pressure within the outlet pipe 20 has decreased to a sufficiently low level, the solenoid valve 94 closes, isolating the containment chamber 98 between the solenoid valve and the check valve 48. When the gas compressor is turned on later,
The gas fuel in the storage chamber 98 flows into the suction pipe 40 of the first stage gas compressor 42 via the check valve 48 . The above-described automatic dispensing system for the outlet tube 20 is optional but configured within the refueling module system to reduce the pressure within the outlet tube 20 and thereby facilitate removal of the connector 22. is desirable. However, the manual vent valve 96 is a three-way manual control station that also allows the outlet tube 20 to be manually vented directly to atmosphere or other gas collection or treatment means so that the operator can easily remove the connector 22. Note that it is desirable that The refueling module 10 simultaneously connects the check valve 3
It also comprises a pressure relief valve 37 upstream of 8 that opens in response to unacceptably high gas pressure levels and relieves such gas pressure by venting the gas to the atmosphere through the atmosphere vent 5. This is desirable. Similarly, a pressure relief valve 53 is provided on the discharge side 44 of the first stage gas compressor 42 and a pressure relief valve 73 is provided at the outlet of the adsorbent filter 72. The pressure relief valves 53, 73 are adapted to open in response to undesirably high gas pressure and relieve such pressure by discharging gaseous fuel through their respective vent lines 55, 75 and atmospheric vent 25. do. The lubricant filter and separator 56 are connected to the first stage gas compressor 4.
2, collects the compressor lubricant from the compressed gas fuel 42, and transfers it to the first stage gas compressor 4 via the return piping 57 and the electric solenoid valve 61.
2 to the suction pipe 40. Similarly, a lubricant filter and separator 68 is installed to collect the compressor lubricants and return them via return line 69 and electric solenoid valve 71 to the suction line 62 of the second stage gas compressor. Since it is well known that it is difficult to start or operate a gas compressor without first balancing the pressure between the suction and discharge sides of the compressor, the control system described below must be installed at the same time. The solenoid valves 61, 71 remain closed whenever the first and second stage gas compressors 42, 64 are activated, and when the first and second stage gas compressors 42, 46 stop operating. is always open. When the solenoid valves 61 and 71 open in this way, fluid communication between the suction and discharge pipes of their respective gas compressors is enabled, and the gas pressures across the compressors are balanced, so that the compressor It will be possible to start as soon as it is activated again. Furthermore, sufficient driving force and pressure is created as gas flows between the suction and discharge sides of the respective compressors via their respective return lines 57, 69, and the collected lubricant is transferred to the separator 56. , 68 to the respective suction side 4 of the respective gas compressor 42, 64.
Forcibly drive it to 0.62. Referring to FIG. 4, the exemplary sorbent storage vessel 82 includes a sorbent 83 that contacts gaseous fuel flowing through an inlet 85 . As used herein, the terms "sorbent" and "sorbent" are intended to refer to adsorption and/or absorption. The inlet 85 of the sorption storage container 82 incorporates an inlet filter 87, which may be a screen mesh type filter, a thread type filter, or the like.
Alternatively, it may consist of any other filter known in the art that is suitable for substantially preventing the introduction of particles and other impurities into the sorbent 83.
The sorbent 83 may be comprised of any of a series of sorbents such as activated carbon, zeolite compounds, silica gel, and various clays. Such sorbents may be pellets, spheres, etc. such that the surface area of the sorbent can be optimized to thereby maximize the amount of gaseous fuel adsorbed and/or absorbed.
It can take the form of particles or other suitable forms. The present invention assumes a case where a liquid adsorbent, such as an adsorbent coated with a liquid, is used. Sorbent filter 72 is constructed of a similar sorbent and has a tank-shaped structure and shape somewhat similar to that shown in FIG. 4 for sorbent storage vessel 82. (Except where the filter 72 has separate inlets and outlets.) Columbia grade 9LXC activated carbon pellets were used as a sorbent in an actual constructed prototype of the example refueling module 10. , and also the sorbent filter 72 and the sorbent storage container 82.
Although generally considered to be the preferred sorbent for sorbents, other sorbents may be used instead. Examples of such sorbents include:

[Table] Low ash coal base

[Table] Clay − −
It should be noted that it has been discovered that it is advantageous to activate the desired carbon sorbent prior to using the refueling module 10. In particular, the sorbent is first packed in the maximum possible amount into the sorbent filter 72 and sorbent reservoir 82, and each filter or reservoir is evacuated. Each filter or storage container is then placed in an oven or heated and then evacuated again. As mentioned above, most gaseous fuels can contain vaporized or other entrained lubricants or liquid materials even at ambient temperatures.
Therefore, optional moisture removal means can be constructed downstream of the lubricant filter and separator 68 if found necessary or desirable. One such optional moisture removal means is shown schematically in Figure 5A. Example water removal system 1
10 is operationally connected to a conventional refrigeration system 114 and includes a heat exchanger 112 installed to cool the gaseous fuel so that vaporized or entrained lubricants and other liquids are precipitated from the gaseous fuel stream. I'm here. Heat exchanger 112 defines a gas inlet 116 and a gas outlet 118 through which refrigerant from refrigeration system 114 is conveyed. Refrigeration system 11
The refrigerant and gas fuel from 4 are transferred to the shell tube heat exchanger 112.
(or other suitable heat transfer device). When the gas fuel is cooled,
Lubricant and other liquids are deposited and drained into the drain pipe 120.
from the heat exchanger 112 via the non-return valve 122 and then returned to the suction side of one of the gas compressors or to a suitable treatment means. Another optional moisture removal means is shown schematically in Figure 5B. An example alternative moisture removal system 130 generally includes a vortex device 132 with a gas inlet 134 and a gas outlet 136.
Devices such as vortex devices are well known to those skilled in the art and provide a vortex or other generally swirling flow path to a compressed gaseous fuel flowing therethrough to cool the fuel and remove lubricants or other entrained liquids. Attach to enable separation. An example of such a vortex separator is the so-called "vortex tube" manufactured and sold by Cincinnati Votex Corporation (Ohio). Moisture removal system 11 in the refueling module 10
0 or 130 or any other suitable moisture removal device may reduce the degree of contamination of the sorbent filter 72 and prolong the useful life of the sorbent therein. considered desirable or necessary. The operation of the example replenishment module 10 is best depicted in the schematic flow diagram of FIG. Gaseous fuel is transferred from the refueling module 10 to the on-board storage system 100.
In order to drain, the outlet pipe 20 is connected to the vehicle storage system via the connector device 22, the manual drain valve 96 is opened and the refueling module is started. (Described below) When replenishment module 10 is started, solenoid valves 80 and 90 open and solenoid valve 94 closes.
The pressurized gaseous fuel in the sorbent storage vessel 82 is
Therefore, it is discharged to the vehicle storage system 100 via the outlet pipe 10. At the same time, a timer device (described below) is started and activated for a predetermined period of time. At the end of this period, the pressures in storage vessel 82 and vehicle storage system 100 are approximately equal, solenoid valve 80 is closed, compressors 42, 64 are started, cooling fan 52 is started, solenoid valve 34 is opened, and solenoid Valves 61, 71, 94 are closed. Compressors 42, 64 and cooling fan 52 are operated until the pressure within vehicle storage system 100 is increased to a predetermined pressure level. When a predetermined pressure level is reached in the vehicle storage system, pressure switch 92 closes solenoid valve 90 and opens solenoid valve 80, thereby refilling storage containers 82 and pressurizing them to their predetermined pressure level. enable. The control system prioritizes the function of the replenishment module such that the storage containers 82 are filled to their predetermined levels and the vehicle storage system 100 receives gas fuel first from the storage containers and then from the gas compressors 42,64. Please note that it is desirable. If the refueling module is connected to the vehicle storage system and the storage container 82 is not pressurized to the predetermined pressure, gaseous fuel will pass by the storage container and first enter the vehicle storage system. supply and then refill the storage container. Once a predetermined pressure is achieved within storage vessel 82, pressure switch 84 closes solenoid valves 34, 80, deactivating compressors 42, 64 and cooling fan 52. At the same time, pressure switch 84 opens solenoid valves 61 and 71 to equalize the gas fuel pressures on the suction and discharge sides of their respective gas compressors. As described above, the compressed gas fuel flows from the discharge side to the suction side of the first stage gas compressor 42, and at the same time, the sorbed compressor lubricant in the lubricant filter and separator 56 is transferred to the recovery pipe 57.
and is forced into the suction side 40 of the first stage gas compressor. Similarly, when the solenoid valve 71 opens, collected compressor lubricant is forced from the collector filter and separator 68 through the collection line 69 and into the suction side 62 of the second stage gas compressor 64. When the refueling system is closed, pressure switch 92 opens solenoid valve 94 and directs gaseous fuel to outlet pipe 2.
0 into storage chamber 98 so that the outlet tube can be easily disconnected. configuring the pressure switch 74 as an option;
It can be set at a pressure level that is only slightly higher than the pressure of pressure switches 92,84. Pressure switch 74 can thus function as part of a safety shut-off system that automatically shuts off the entire supply module system in the event that an unacceptably high gas pressure level exists therein. Further safety features include pressure relief valve 3.
7, 53, 73 can be set at a pressure slightly higher than the pressure of optional pressure switch 73 (if configured), which will reduce the system pressure if the pressure continues to increase after the system has shut down. Performs the role of automatically escaping. FIG. 6 shows an example of an electrical control system installed to cause the replenishment module to perform the functions described above. It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other control systems, whether electrical or other types, may be used instead. To begin operation of the replenishment module 10, the on/off breaker switch 154 is closed. The closing action of the on-off switch illuminates the red indicator lamp R, indicating that the gas compressor is not operating, and also illuminates the green indicator lamp G, indicating that the sorbent reservoir 82 is filled and filled. This indicates that the pressure has been increased to a predetermined level. To discharge gas fuel from the refueling module 10 to the vehicle storage system 100, the outlet pipe 20 is connected to the vehicle storage system via the connector 22, the manual discharge valve 96 is opened, the vehicle fill switch 156 is closed, and the indicator lamp G is turned on. It is kept closed by workers until it is shut off. When the fill switch 156 closes,
Relay R1 is energized, closing contacts R1a and R1b and opening contact R1c, thereby opening solenoid valves 90 and 8.
0, closes the solenoid valve 94, and starts the timer.
Start T1. Thus, the collecting agent storage container 82
The compressed gas fuel within can be discharged into the vehicle storage system 100 via the outlet pipe 20. When the pressure in the collector storage container 82 decreases, the pressure switch 84 is first closed, thereby shutting off the indicator lamp G and energizing the relay R2, which closes its contacts.
Close R2a, R2b, and R2c. Fill switch 156 will then be released to its open position because both contacts R1a and R2a are closed. After the predetermined time set by timer T1, the storage container 8
2 and the pressure inside the storage container 100 are almost equal,
Timer T1 closes its contacts T1a and opens its contacts T1b, thereby energizing compressor relay C, thereby closing solenoid valve 80 and disconnecting storage vessel 82. Relay C has its contacts Ca and Cb
is closed, and the cooling fan 52 and compressors 42, 64 are started. At the same time, amber indicator lamp A is preferably illuminated (to indicate that the compressor and fan are running) and relay R5 is energized. Activated relay R5 opens contact R5a, thus blocking indicator lamp R. Compressors 42, 64 continue to operate until the pressure in the storage system is increased to a predetermined pressure level and solenoid valve 90 is closed by opening pressure switch 92. When pressure switch 92 opens, relay R4 is activated in the same way, and its contacts R4a and R4b
Close and R4c open. Once storage tank 82 is refilled to its predetermined pressure, pressure switch 84 reopens, deenergizing relay R2 and illuminating indicator lamp G.
When relay R2 is de-energized, contacts R2a and R2b open, which de-energizes relay R1 and opens contact R2b. When relay R1 is de-energized, contacts R1a and R1b are opened, the system is restored, timer T1 is de-energized,
Close solenoid valve 80. As a result, contact T1a
open simultaneously, deenergizing relay C (thus stopping compressor and cooling fan activity) and opening normally open solenoid valves 61, 71 to equalize pressure across the compressor and Push the lubricant back to its suction side. Similarly, solenoid valve 94 opens to discharge gaseous fuel from outlet pipe 20 into storage chamber 98 . Note that if for any reason power is interrupted during a refueling operation, fill switch 156 must be pressed again to restore refueling. Similarly, if the system becomes too pressurized for any reason, an optional pressure switch 73 automatically shuts down the system as described above. In some cases, the storage tank 82 may be shut off or terminated before the pressure within the storage system 100 reaches a predetermined pressure that opens the pressure switch 92.
can be prevented from being filled again. An example of such a case is when the user needs the vehicle before the refueling operation is complete. In such a case, the control system will refill storage tanks 82 other than those described above in completing the refueling operation. To refill the storage container, operation of the refueling module is initiated by closing the above-mentioned on-off breaker switch 154, thus activating the indicator lamp R and causing the relay R2 to turn on the pressure switch 84. Twist and energize it.
As a result, contacts R2a, R2b, and R2c close. contact by pressing optional storage tank fill switch 160 and energizing relay R3.
Close R3a, R3c, and R3d and open contact R3b. Therefore, optional switch 160 is released to its open position, opening solenoid valve 80 and starting the compressor and cooling fan via relay C and its contacts Ca. At the same time, contact Cb is closed, relay R5 is energized, and contact R5a is opened, so lamp A is lit and lamp R is cut off. The compressor and cooling fan then continue to operate until the pressure in storage tank 82 reaches its predetermined level and the system is automatically shut off by pressure switch 84 and the remaining procedures described above. Note that if power is interrupted during refilling of storage tank 82, compressor and fan activity ceases, thus causing solenoid valve 80 to close. Option switch 160 must be pressed again to resume operation. Note that switch 160 is optional and will function as described above if configured. Finally, it should also be noted that a shutdown switch 170 is provided for manually shutting down the system if it is necessary or desirable to do so. From the foregoing, embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described. Those skilled in the art will readily understand from the above discussion that various changes, modifications, and variations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims. will be done.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective overall view of an exemplary gas refueling apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the exemplary refueling apparatus of FIG. 1, showing its housing in silhouette and revealing its internal components. 3 is a schematic flow diagram of the example refueling device of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a schematic flow diagram of one of the fuel storage or filter containers of the example refueling device of FIG. A section cut away to show the inside. FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of an optional refrigeration system configured in the system for removing moisture from gaseous fuel; FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of yet another optional moisture removal system comprised of a vortex type refrigeration system 6 is a schematic diagram of a preferred electrical control system for the refueling system of FIG. 1; FIG. 10... Refueling module, 14... Louver, 16... Control panel, 12... Housing,
28...Inlet, 30...Gas fuel supply system, 32
...Manual shutoff valve, 38...Check valve, 34,94
... Solenoid valve, 36 ... Drying filter, 42
...First stage gas compressor, 44...Discharge pipe, 50...
... Gas cooler, 56 ... Separator, 64 ... Second stage gas compressor, 78 ... Outlet, 82 ... Storage container,
100...Storage system, 96...Manual discharge valve, 98
...Containment room, 5...Vent.

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1. A gas fuel supply device for supplying gas fuel to a gas fuel consumption device, wherein the gas fuel supply device is configured to be connected in fluid communication with a gas fuel supply source. an inlet means for compressing and increasing the pressure of the gaseous fuel entering from the gaseous fuel source through the inlet means; and compression means for reducing the temperature of the compressed gaseous fuel. and a sorbent for adsorbing a predetermined amount of the compressed gas fuel, the compressed gas fuel being cooled by the cooling means being adsorbed by the sorbent. a storage means for storing; a discharge device removably connected to the gaseous fuel consumption device for selectively supplying the compressed gaseous fuel; and a discharge device for selectively supplying the compressed gaseous fuel; supplying the compressed gaseous fuel from the storage means via the evacuation device to the gaseous fuel consuming device only when the gaseous fuel pressure in the storage means is at or above the pressure level; is below the predetermined pressure level, control means for bypassing the storage means and supplying the gaseous fuel from the compression means through the discharge device to the gaseous fuel consumption device; , gas fuel supply device. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pressure of the compressed gaseous fuel supplied to the gaseous fuel consumer is less than approximately 3450 kPa (500 psig). 3 The maximum pressure of the compressed gas fuel supplied to the gas fuel consumption device is approximately 1380 to 2760 kPa (200 to
400 psig). 4. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the compression means consists of at least one hermetically sealed gas compressor. 5. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the compression means comprises at least one hermetically sealed refrigerant type gas compressor. 6 for causing the gas compression means to supply the compressed gas fuel to the storage means when the gaseous fuel pressure in the storage means falls below the predetermined pressure level and the evacuation means is disconnected from the device; Claim 1, characterized in that the control means is installed.
Equipment described in Section. 7. the gaseous fuel pressure in the evacuation means is below the predetermined pressure level, the evacuation means is connected to the device;
said control means for causing said compression means to supply said compressed gas fuel when the gas fuel pressure therein is approximately equal to or above a second predetermined pressure level; Apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in: 8 further comprising sorbent filter means for sorbently removing substantially all materials from the gaseous fuel except for certain predetermined constituents of the gaseous fuel, after which the gaseous fuel is transferred to the fuel consuming device. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is supplied to or stored by said storage means. 9. A device according to claim 1, comprising means for removing moisture from the gaseous fuel, which is then supplied to the fuel consuming device or stored by the storage means. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein said moisture removal means constitutes desiccant filter means between said inlet means and said compression means. 11. Claim 10, characterized in that the moisture removal means further constitutes moisture separation means between the cooling means, both the storage means and the discharge means.
Equipment described in Section. 12 a fluid pipe in which the discharge means is removably connected to the fuel consumption device for supplying the compressed gas fuel thereto; and a gas fuel pressure within the fuel consumption device is substantially equal to a predetermined pressure level; A patent characterized in that the invention comprises a control means for stopping the supply when the supply exceeds the limit, and discharging the compressed gas fuel from the fluid pipe after the supply is stopped. Apparatus according to claim 1. 13. means for ceasing operation of the compression means after the gaseous fuel pressure within the storage means is approximately equal to or exceeds a further predetermined level;
and means for equalizing the gas fuel pressure between the suction side and the discharge side of the compression means after the compression means has ceased to operate. equipment. 14. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising accumulator means in fluid communication with the discharge side of the compressor means for damping surging in the pressure of the compressed gas fuel. 15 A refueling system for a vehicle or other device to be refueled with hydrocarbon gas fuel includes an inlet means mounted in fluid communication with the gas fuel source to compress the gas fuel to a predetermined maximum pressure. a hermetically sealed compressor means for increasing the pressure to a level; air cooling means for reducing the temperature of the compressed gaseous fuel; substantially all materials, except for certain constituents of the gaseous fuel, are removed from the gaseous fuel; sorbent filter means for sorptive removal; means for supplying the compressed gas fuel to the vehicle or other gas refueling device; selectively and at fuel inlet means on the vehicle or device; Consists of a fluid pipe that can be detachably attached,
and a discharge means for selectively refueling the vehicle or the device. 16 The predetermined maximum pressure level is approximately 689 ~
16. The refueling device according to claim 15, characterized in that it is in the range of 3450 kPa (100-500 psig). 17 consisting of at least one storage container;
The storage container contains a sorbent therein, and
Claim 1, characterized in that the compressed gas fuel is equipped for sorptive storage of a predetermined amount of the compressed gas fuel.
The refueling device according to item 5. 18. The refueling device according to claim 17, wherein the sorbent comprises an activated carbon adsorbent. 19. The refueling system of claim 17, wherein the pressure of the compressed gaseous fuel in the storage combustor is in the range of approximately 200 to 400 psig. 20 further comprising control means for supplying the compressed gas fuel from either the compression means or the storage container to the vehicle or device, the control means controlling the control means such that the initial pressure therein reaches a second predetermined pressure level; The compressed gas fuel is initially supplied from the storage container to the vehicle or the equipment if approximately equal to or above the pressure, and the storage container is bypassed and the storage tank pressure is Claim 19, wherein the compressor means is mounted to supply compressed gas fuel from the compressor means to the vehicle or device when the pressure falls below a third predetermined pressure level. refueling device. 21. The control means, after the fluid line is disconnected from the vehicle or the device, or alternatively, when the gas fuel pressure within the vehicle or the like reaches approximately a fourth predetermined pressure level; the control means is configured to automatically supply the compressed gas fuel to the storage container after the pressure of the compressed gas fuel in the storage container has increased to approximately a second predetermined level; 21. The refueling device according to claim 20, wherein the refueling device is installed to stop the activity of an aircraft. 22. The refueling device according to claim 21, wherein the sorbent comprises an activated carbon adsorbent. 23 The compressor means includes first compression means for initially increasing the pressure of the gas fuel, and second stage compression means for further increasing the pressure of the pressurized gas fuel from the first stage compression means. , and said air cooling comprising an interstage heat exchanger mounted to reduce the temperature of said pressurized gaseous fuel from said first stage compression means so that it is further pressurized in a second stage compression means. 18. The refueling device according to claim 17, characterized in that it is comprised of means. 24. The refueling device according to claim 23, wherein the first stage and second stage compression means each include an airtightly sealed refrigerant type gas compressor. 25. Claim No. 2, characterized in that the compression means comprises a hermetically sealed two-stage compressor, the second-stage compressor being mounted to fluidly connect the interstage exchanger between the stages. 24. The refueling device according to item 23. 26. The refueling device according to claim 17, further comprising moisture separation means between the air cooling means and the sorbent filter means. 27. The moisture removal means comprises means for further cooling the compressed gaseous fuel below ambient room temperature and separating moisture therefrom, and drainage means for removing the separated moisture from the refrigeration means. 27. The refueling device according to claim 26, characterized in that: 28. The refueling device according to claim 26, characterized in that the moisture removal means comprises a vortex tube device. 29 Lubricant filter means for substantially confining and collecting any compression means lubricant from the compressed gaseous fuel on the discharge side of the hermetically sealed compression means, and connecting the lubricant filter means with the suction side of the compression means; comprising a fluid conduit and control means for
The fluid conduit means has a valve means therein, and the control means maintains the valve means in its closed condition when the compression means is activated and when the pressure means is deactivated. opens said valve means to allow compressed gas fuel to flow from said discharge side to said suction side of said compression means, substantially equalizing the pressure therebetween, and to direct said collected lubricant to said suction side of said compression means. 16. The refueling device according to claim 15, wherein the refueling device is forcibly returned to the side. 30 In a natural gas refueling unit for a vehicle or other equipment using natural gas, an inlet fitted for connection to the natural gas supply system and compressing the natural gas to a pressure of approximately 2760 kPa.
at least one hermetically sealed gas compressor having its suction side connected to the inlet for increasing a predetermined maximum pressure level of not more than (400 psig); and for conveying the compressed natural gas therethrough. an interior thereof coupled in fluid communication with a discharge side of the compressor;
an air conveying means coupled to the heat exchanger for directing ambient air over the heat exchanger to cool the compressed natural gas therein; a sorbent filter chamber having a sorbent; at least one sorbent storage vessel for adsorbently storing compressed natural gas from the sorbent filter at approximately a first predetermined pressure level; and a sorbent storage vessel at a fuel inlet of the vehicle. an outlet means for selectively supplying the compressed natural gas to the vehicle, comprising a selectively and removably connected fuel outlet conduit, and an outlet means for selectively supplying the compressed natural gas to the vehicle; if the natural gas pressure in the storage container falls below the second predetermined pressure level, the vehicle is first refueled from the storage container, and if the natural gas pressure in the storage container falls below the second predetermined pressure level, the vehicle is bypassed from the compressor. refuel the vehicle,
and filling the storage container with the compressed natural gas after the fluid outlet conduit is disconnected from the fuel inlet of the vehicle or alternatively after the natural gas pressure within the vehicle reaches a third predetermined pressure level. and a control means attached to the refueling unit. 31 Check valve means in the inlet to substantially prevent backflow of natural gas into the supply system and to substantially isolate the remainder of the unit from the domestic supply system when the unit ceases to be active; 31. A natural gas replenishment unit as claimed in claim 30, further comprising normally closed valve means for. 32 a first means for removing moisture from the natural gas from the inlet prior to the natural gas entering the compressor; and a first means for removing moisture from the compressed natural gas prior to entering the compressed natural gas into the adsorbent filter chamber. 31. A natural gas replenishment unit as claimed in claim 30, further comprising second means for removing moisture. 33. Natural gas according to claim 32, characterized in that the key moisture removal means comprises a desiccant filter device having an adsorbent therein for adsorbing the moisture from the natural gas. Refueling unit. 34. said second moisture removal means comprising refrigeration means for cooling said compressed natural gas below ambient temperature and separating said moisture therefrom; and drainage means for removing said separated moisture from said refrigeration means. A natural gas replenishment unit according to claim 32, characterized in that: 35. A natural gas refueling unit according to claim 33, wherein said second moisture removal means comprises a vortex tube arrangement. 36 at least one lubricant filter means on a discharge side of said hermetically sealed compressor for substantially confining collection of compressor lubricant from said compressed natural gas; and said lubricant filter means on a suction side of said compressor. a connecting fluid return conduit, the fluid return conduit defining a solenoid valve therein, and the control means further closing the solenoid valve when the compressor is activated; said solenoid valve is mounted to close said solenoid valve when inactive, said opened solenoid valve allowing compressed natural gas to flow from said discharge side to said suction side of said compressor, substantially equalizing the pressure therebetween; 32. A natural gas replenishment unit as claimed in claim 31, characterized in that said collected compressor lubricant is forced to the suction side of said compressor. 37. At least one of said lubricant filter means is disposed substantially adjacent to said heat exchanger coil and substantially to one side of its lowest level for discharging compressor lubricant therefrom and collecting within said lubricant filter means. 38. A natural gas replenishment unit according to claim 37, characterized in that the natural gas replenishment unit is capable of: 38 withdrawing gaseous fuel from its source, compressing the gaseous fuel to increase its pressure, cooling the compressed gaseous fuel to reduce its temperature, storing a predetermined amount of the compressed gaseous fuel, and characterized in that it consists of the step of discharging fuel into said gaseous fuel consumption device for consumption therein,
A method of supplying gaseous fuel to a gaseous fuel consuming device. 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the compressed gas fuel is discharged into the fuel consuming device at a pressure below approximately 3450 kPa (500 psig). 40. The method of claim 38, wherein the storage step includes adsorbing the compressed gas fuel with an adsorbent. 41. The method of claim 40, further comprising the step of filtering the compressed gaseous fuel by passing it through a sorbent before being discharged into the gaseous fuel consumption device. . 42 said gaseous fuel is compressed in a gas compression device having an intake inlet and a discharge outlet, further separating a compressor lubricant from said compressed gaseous fuel substantially on the discharge side of said compressor device; 39. The method of claim 38, further comprising returning the separated compressor lubricant to the suction inlet upon inactivity. 43 enabling fluid communication between the discharge outlet and the suction inlet to balance gaseous fuel pressures during a period after the compressor has ceased operation;
The method further comprises a step in which a portion of the compressed gas fuel flows from the discharge side to the suction side of the inactive compressor, and the separated compressor lubricant is forcibly returned to the suction inlet. A method according to claim 42.