• 专利附录
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    • 专利摘要:
    system and method of filling a portable gas cylinder the present invention relates to a system (1) and method of filling a portable gas cylinder (3) with a pre-selected amount of fluid, which can be installed in any retail sales establishment to fill the gas cylinders (3) directly to the consumer, or in vehicles that can fill gas cylinders in the places of use, eliminating their exchange or transportation to the supply company. said cylinder filling system and method is comprised particularly of a reservoir (2) for supplying a volume of pressurized fluid, a compartment (4) for receiving the gas cylinder, and a supply line (15) extending between the reservoir (2) and the compartment (4) for supplying the fluid, preferably by means of a metering device (d) suitable for filling the gas in the cylinder (3). the compartment (4) is closed and has a door (6) that can be accessed by a user only before and after a filling operation to load the gas cylinder. a retractable coupler (9) associated with the compartment (4) and connected to the supply line (15) is automatically connected towards a filling valve (7), positioned on the gas cylinder (3) which, during the filling operation , connects with the filling valve (7) to supply a quantity of fluid under pressure to the gas cylinder from the reservoir. a control panel (5) allows the consumer to select a predetermined amount of fluid to be filled.
    公开号:BR112013003800B1
    申请号:R112013003800-4
    申请日:2010-11-22
    公开日:2020-09-29
    发明作者:Daniel Camilotti；Flavio Camilotti
    申请人:Flavio Camilotti；Danna Participacoes Eireli；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    The present invention relates to a system and method of filling a portable gas cylinder, which can be installed in any retail sales establishment to fill gas canisters, or be installed in vehicles that can fill gas canisters in places of use, eliminating their exchange or transportation to the supply company. History of the invention
    Piped gas supply systems for households whose distribution network does not yet reach all metropolitan regions are known, making it necessary to use cylinders in places not covered by this network.
    Consumers change the cylinders as soon as their content ends, and this exchange can be carried out, for example, directly at the companies that supply the cylinders, or await the passage of a truck from the supplier that, on scheduled dates, makes its sale. with cylinder change on site.
    These cylinder exchange systems have some disadvantages, such as the cost of transporting the cylinders between the company and the homes, whether full or empty, is passed on to the product. In addition, the cylinders suffer wear and tear in this transport or in their storage, forcing them to be maintained and painted, which also makes the product more expensive.
    Another disadvantage is the exchange of the cylinder without the total exhaustion of its contents. This is because for fear that the gas will run out in the middle of cooking, the consumer changes the cylinder before it empties. This adds an additional and unnecessary cost to the consumer, since he does not receive any reimbursement for the gas contained in the cylinder.
    In order to enable the sale of a certain amount of gas, avoiding excessive bottling of gas in the cylinder, as well as allowing the consumer to pay only for the bottled gas, there are filling systems that comprise a plurality of dosing devices that assist in the calculation of the amount of gas to be bottled. These systems make it possible to determine the density of the gas contained in the gas tank, select the gas density of the cylinder, calculate a predetermined amount of gas to be added to the cylinder, control the flow of gas, etc.
    Disadvantageously, despite being efficient, these potting systems are very complex, comprise many parts, and are expensive. In addition, they comprise many measurement and calculation devices, and in the eventual failure of any one of them, potting is compromised or even impossible.
    Another disadvantage of these dosers is due to the fact that they do not have a constructive disposition that allows their use in vehicles supplying gas cylinders.
    In order to remedy these drawbacks, the present invention features a system and method of filling a portable gas cylinder that can be installed in any location or vehicle.
    In this way, the present system can be installed in retail sales establishments, such as gas stations, which allows the user to take the cylinder to the location and fill it. Or, it can be installed in vehicles that travel to homes, filling the gas directly at the place of use, and at the consumer's sight. Brief description of the invention
    The present invention deals with a system and method of filling a portable gas cylinder with a pre-selected amount of fluid, comprised particularly of a reservoir for supplying a volume of pressurized fluid, a compartment for receiving the gas cylinder, and a supply line extending between the reservoir and the fluid supply compartment, preferably by means of a metering device (D) to fill the gas in the cylinder. The compartment is closed and has a door that can be accessed by a user only before and after a filling operation to load the gas cylinder. A retractable coupler associated with the compartment and connected to the supply line is automatically connected towards a filling valve, positioned on the gas cylinder which, during the filling operation, connects with the filling valve to supply a quantity of fluid under pressure to the gas cylinder from the reservoir.
    Said filling system and method also comprises a control panel with a user interface to select a quantity of pressurized fluid for filling, which comprises a processor operationally associated with a set of sensors that allow the management of filling operations, ensuring the user security.
    A suitable dosing device makes it possible to fill a pre-selected quantity of gas, which operates similarly to a syringe, whose body is equipped with a gas inlet and outlet, with its plunger being moved from one end to the other along the body, allowing the body to fill with gas when the plunger is removed, and expelling the gas into a gas cylinder when advancing the plunger against the body.
    In order to better elucidate the present system and method of filling a portable gas cylinder, schematic figures of a particular embodiment of the invention are presented below, whose dimensions and proportions are not necessarily the real ones, as the figures are only intended to didactically present its various aspects, whose scope of protection is determined only by the scope of the attached claims. Brief description of the drawings
    The system and method of filling a portable gas cylinder will be described below based on the attached drawings, in which: - figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of the filling system (1) of the present invention; figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a compartment (4) of the present system (1); figure 3 shows a front perspective view of the interior of the compartment (4) with a gas cylinder (3); figure 4 shows another front perspective view of the interior of the compartment (4) without a cylinder (3); - figure 5 shows a perspective view of the filling system (1), in an application example, that is, a four-wheel vehicle (C); figure 6 illustrates another application example of the present system (1) where the compartment (4) is provided with a base structure in the form of a stationary support (41), which keeps it away from the ground, where it is fixed; - figure 7 shows a side view in partial section, of a metering device (D) coupled to the present system (1), where the metering device (D) is positioned externally to the gas reservoir (2) of a truck ( Ç); figure 7A represents an enlarged view of the detail A of figure 7; figure 8 represents a cross-sectional view of the gas metering device (D); figure 9 represents a cross-sectional view of a constructive variation of the gas metering device (D); figure 10 represents a perspective view of the dosing device (D) of figure 9; figure 11 represents a side view in partial cross-section of the metering device (D) located on the inside of the gas reservoir (2); figure 11A represents an enlarged view of detail B of figure 11; - figure 12 represents a block diagram of the compact gas filling method: Detailed description of the invention
    As illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the present invention relates to a system (1) for filling gas cylinders (3) portable, tanks and other containers. The system (1) can be installed in retail outlets (see figure 6), or in vehicles (see figures 5, 7 and 11). The present invention can be used for any filling operation where a consumer brings a cylinder (3) or tank, empty or partially filled, to a filling station, such as a stationary station in a retail establishment, or a mobile filling station. installed on a vehicle, such as a bobtail truck, van, motorcycle with sidecar, and so on.
    The fluid to be filled in the cylinder (3) or other container may include, but is not limited to, liquid propane gas, methane gas, butane gas, natural gas, LPG, and other liquefied gases or combinations thereof, or other fluids that can be used to meet the energy needs of the end user. It will be understood that the terms "fluid" and "gas" as used herein can refer to a liquid state and / or a gaseous state of the product to be dispensed in the cylinder (3) or other container. It will also be understood that the cylinder (3) as described in this document is preferably in the form of a pressure device so that the fluid received in the cylinder (3) is pressurized to maintain both the liquid state and the gaseous state to supply fuel for household appliances in general, such as stoves, water heaters, refrigerators, clothes dryers, etc. In a particular embodiment, the present invention can be used to fill cylinders or any depressurized containers.
    The filling system (1) comprises a gas reservoir (2) for the supply of a pre-selected amount of pressurized fluid, for filling gas cylinders (3), aiming to supply the energy demands of a user . Said filling system (1) is also provided with at least one compartment (4) to receive a gas cylinder (3), in addition to a supply line (15) that extends between the reservoir (2) and the compartment ( 4) for the delivery of the pressurized fluid to the gas cylinder (3).
    Each compartment (4) is preferably provided with a cradle (13), defined in a non-limiting way as a recess, at its base to accommodate the gas cylinder (3). Said cradle (13) is supported on a weight measurement system (12), placed on the base of the compartment (4) which is closed by a door (6), which can be accessed by a user only before and after a filling operation to load the gas cylinder (3). Each compartment (4) comprises a support (10) of a retractable coupler (9), which is connected to the supply line (15), which connects the reservoir (2) to the retractable coupler (9), which is automatically moved towards a filling valve (7) with a suitable safety valve, such as a check valve or similar, already incorporated in the gas cylinders (3) to be filled, and said safety valve allows the fluid to escape from the reservoir (2) to enter the gas cylinder (3) when the retractable coupler (9) is coupled to the filling valve (7), and also prevents the gas from escaping from the cylinder (3) when the retractable coupler (9) is dissociated from the filling valve (7).
    A suitable filling valve with safety valve is described in the Brazilian patent application, number PI0703145-9, published on May 19, 2009, including improvements that were the subject of another patent application for the certificate of addition, number C10703145- 9, published on January 1, 2011, whose documents were cited in this report by reference.
    Said safety valve integrated with the filling valve (7), it is preferably associated with an overload control mechanism (not shown), disposed in the internal part of the gas cylinder (3), being said mechanism responsible for blocking the safety valve, interrupting the entry of gas into the cylinder (3).
    The filling valve (7) of the cylinder (3) is attachable both to the retractable coupler (9) and to household appliances. The retractable coupler (9) can comprise a suitable or universal device to enable both connections.
    Although the compartment (4) is shown with solid walls and door, it will be understood that the compartment (4) is not limited to this, but can be in the form of a cage or other configuration without departing from the scope of the invention, as long as the compartment (4) is able to prevent access to the cylinder (3) and other components inside the compartment (4) during the filling procedure.
    The system (1) also comprises a first sensor, preferably a pressure sensor (not shown), between the outlet of the reservoir (2) and the retractable coupler (9) that allows to monitor the system pressure (1). Particularly referred to pressure sensor (not shown) is positioned on the retractable coupler (9), which allows to monitor the internal pressure of the cylinder (3). Thus, when the internal pressure of the cylinder (3) exceeds a maximum value of its capacity, the refilling of the cylinder (3) can be terminated. If the gas cylinder (3) is fully loaded, the overload controller (not shown) automatically blocks the safety valve incorporated in the filling valve (7). After this block, the gas pressure of the supply system will increase, being identified by the pressure sensor, causing the refill of the cylinder (3) to be closed.
    The transfer of gas from the reservoir (2) to the cylinder (3) can be carried out by any equipment known in the art, such as pumps or metering devices, or the like.
    Optionally, the cradle (13) is incorporated into a box (40), conveniently attached to the compartment (4) that can be used to support the support (10) of the retractable coupler (9) on its upper side, being the support (10 ) positioned centrally with the cradle (13), in order to allow precise control of the retractable coupler (9) in relation to the filling valve (7) of the cylinder (3). In this way, the cylinder (3) is supported on the cradle (13) of said box (40), arranged on the measuring system (12), so that the retractable coupler (9) is aligned with the filling valve (7) enabling an accurate connection.
    In a constructive variant, the box (40) can be replaced by a shelf (not shown) or another support structure conveniently connected to the compartment (4) for the same purpose without departing from the scope of the invention.
    Preferably, said measurement system (12) is a balance equipped with one or more sensors, such as load cells for monitoring and controlling the weight of the gas cylinder (3). However, it will be understood that the measurement system (12) may comprise other well-known devices for monitoring and controlling the weight of the gas cylinder (3).
    The system (1) also comprises a counter flow valve (not shown), preferably arranged in the supply line (15), to prevent the gas from returning from the cylinder (3) to the reservoir (2), in case the pressure in the cylinder (3) is greater than the pressure inside the reservoir (2).
    The filling system (1) of a gas cylinder (3) also comprises a control panel (5) with a user interface and a coupled processing and management unit that, through an embedded computer program, manages the functioning of the system (1). This program manages the various functions of the system (1), such as the movement of the coupling / uncoupling of the retractable coupler (9) in the filling valve (7); receiving the weight measurement of the cylinder (3) positioned in the cradle (13) of the compartment (4); receiving the weight measurement of the cylinder (3) after filling; allows the choice of a quantity of gas to be filled, through the control panel user interface (5); warns when the pressure or gas weight limit on the cylinder (3) is reached, and also monitors the expiration date of the cylinder (3). The management and processing unit is preferably comprised of a microprocessor or similar to perform the various functions described.
    In this way, said processor operationally associated with the control panel (5), reacts to the first sensor and moves the retractable coupler (9) to automatically interrupt the filling operation and move the coupler (9) away from the filling valve (7) when the first sensor detects that the pre-selected amount of fluid has been delivered to the gas cylinder (3) automatically.
    Said filling valve (7) allows both the coupling of a retractable coupler (9), for gas filling, and a coupling for the use of gas in a stove (not shown). The retractable coupler (9) is any suitable for coupling to a gas cylinder filling valve (7) (3), for example, of the bobtail type.
    Said system (1) comprises at least one reading device (not shown), such as a chip, installed in the cylinder (3), which can identify and interpret information specified by the manufacturer, such as the expiration date of the cylinder (3 ). Other information may include, such as, cylinder serial number (3), name of the distributor or supplier, as well as other important information to the distributor or condition of the cylinder (3). For example, information related to the number of times the cylinder (3) was filled, undesirable stresses that can be detected on the cylinder wall and / or amendments by additional sensors (not shown). If the expiration date is reached, the computer program informs the management and processing unit to cancel the filling operation.
    The measuring system (12) is used to measure the weight of the cylinder (3) before and after refilling, as well as the amount of gas applied, which can be completely filled in the cylinder (3) or an amount defined by the user himself , according to the amount you want to pay. Thus, the measurement system (12) communicates with the program embedded in the processing and management unit, informing when the pre-determined amount of gas was filled, or when the maximum pre-determined weight of the filled cylinder was reached, through measuring the weight of the cylinder (3), plus the weight of the bottled gas, thus ending the refill.
    The compartment (4) is closed by said door (6), preferably provided with a locking means (8) to prevent the cylinder (3) from being mistakenly removed during refilling. It will be understood that the locking means (8) can be any pneumatic actuator, as well as hydraulic actuators, electrically operated solenoid actuators, motorized locking mechanisms or any other device suitable for this function, without departing from the scope of the invention.
    The locking means (8) is activated when the door (6) is closed and is unlocked when the gas filling operation is finished or canceled. The compartment (4) comprises ventilation holes (14) that allow gas to escape, in case of leakage during recharge, preventing them from being trapped inside the compartment (4).
    In order to facilitate the various stages of filling the cylinders (3), the present system (1) preferably comprises a digital display (50) and a keyboard (5a), arranged on the control panel (5) (figures 2, 5 and 6), where it is possible to view information related to the filling procedure, such as initial weight data of the gas cylinder (3) when it is first placed in the cradle (13); amount of potting selected; indication that the filling procedure has been completed; indication that the pressure limit has been reached; indication that the maximum weight has been reached; indication that the filling procedure has been canceled, among others. The keyboard (5a) integrated with the control panel (5) is used to record the information required before the filling procedure starts, such as the filling quantity, desired payment amount, security codes associated with a credit card or bank transaction, identification information, etc. Payment for bottled gas can be made by any means, such as credit card, debit card, cash, fuel voucher, etc.
    As shown in figure 5, the display (50) and the keyboard (5a) are associated with each compartment (4), however, it will be understood that a single keyboard and display can be associated with all compartments (4).
    The system (1), preferably, also comprises a presence sensor (not shown) that accuses the non-coupling, partial coupling or misalignment of the retractable coupler (9) in relation to the filling valve (7), which detects the situation of no connection or partial connection between the retractable coupler (9) and the filling valve (7), sending a signal to the filling control program to cancel the refill. This sensor can be an optical sensor, a magnetic field effect sensor, a limit switch, or another device for detecting the relative position between the quick coupler (9) and the filling valve (7).
    In particular, the present system (1) further comprises a metering device (D) for filling the gas in the cylinder (3). It is installed in the supply line (15) of the reservoir gas outlet (2), in order to inject gas into the cylinder (3) through the retractable coupler (9). This dispenser is of simple construction and has a shape similar to a syringe, whose body is equipped with a gas inlet and outlet, with its plunger being moved between a retracted position and an extended position along the body, allowing the body is filled with gas when the piston moves towards the retracted position, and can expel gas in the gas cylinder (3) when the piston moves towards the extended position in the body.
    The present system (1) and dosing device (D) also comprise a management and processing unit connected to temperature sensors that, with the aid of a computer program, accurately calculates the volume of gas according to the information received. temperature sensors. The program calculates the mass or weight of the gas, according to its volume and temperature, determining the retraction of the piston, which is measured by a position sensor (not shown), so that the desired amount of gas enters the dosing device to then be delivered to the gas cylinder (3) when the plunger is moved forward towards the starting position.
    In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the system (1) comprises a gas metering device (D) provided with a hollow body (D2); a plunger (D3) inserted in the body (D2) that is movable along the body between the retracted and extended positions. Said body (D2) is equipped with an inlet (D4) and an outlet (D5) of gas, so that when moving the plunger (D3) in the opposite direction to the inlet (D4) of the body (D2) there is An internal chamber (D6) is formed which is filled with gas from the inlet (D4). This chamber (D6) is emptied by moving the plunger (D3) towards the inlet (D4) of the body (D2), towards the extended position, in order to expel the gas through the outlet (D5).
    The dosing device (D) preferably comprises temperature sensors (not shown), arranged in the body (D2) and / or in the supply line (15), and the position sensor (D1) of the piston (D3), being that said sensors communicate with the program embedded in the processing and management unit of the panel (5) of the system (1), which receives and processes the information from said sensors.
    These temperature sensors are necessary due to the fact that the LPG gas undergoes volumetric variations, due to the influence of temperature. In this way, the processing and management unit calculates an average of the readings obtained through the sensors and will determine the proportional advance of the piston (D3), to precisely define the amount of gas to be filled, with the progress of the piston (D3) being monitored by the position sensor (D1).
    The body (D2) is internally divided into two chambers (D6, D7) by the plunger (D3), the first chamber (D6) being a temporary gas reservoir that supplies the cylinder (3), while the second chamber (D6) D7) is used to assist the movement of the plunger (D3) by injecting fluids through its opening (D11), causing the plunger (D3) to advance against the chamber (D6).
    The gas inlet (D4) is connected to the reservoir (2) by a hose (D10), while the outlet (D5) is connected to the supply line (15) which directs the gas to the cylinder (3) (see figures 7 and 11).
    The dosing device (D) preferably also comprises two non-return valves, installed at the gas inlet (D4) and outlet (D5), respectively. The valve allows gas to pass from the reservoir (2) to the chamber (D6), by moving the plunger (D3) of the body (D2) in the opposite direction to the inlet (D4) of the body (D2), but prevents the passage of in the opposite direction, while the valve allows gas to escape from the chamber (D6), but prevents its passage in the opposite direction, when the plunger (D3) is moved in the direction of the inlet (D4) of the body (02), to the gas filling in the cylinder (3).
    The plunger (D3) can be moved by any known means, for example, through a hydraulic pump (not shown) that injects or draws fluid through the opening (D11) of the chamber (D7) of the body (D2), opposite the chamber (D6) in relation to the plunger (D3). Thus, when injecting fluid into the chamber (D7), the plunger (D3) is pressed against the gas in the chamber (D6), expelling it out of the body (D2) through the outlet (D5). When removing said fluid or stop injecting it, the plunger recedes (D3), due to the pressure of the gas contained in the chamber (D6), and also due to the negative pressure in the chamber (D7) with the withdrawal of fluid. The metering device (D) can also contain a spring (not shown) arranged in the chamber (D6), pressing the plunger (D3) and constantly forcing it in the opposite direction to the inlet (D4), allowing the chamber (D6) be filled with gas, which is expelled through the outlet (D5), when the hydraulic pump (not shown) acts on the piston (D3).
    According to another example of the present invention, the metering device (D) may alternatively contain a piston (D12), the rod of which (D13) is connected to the piston (D3), promoting its recoil or forward movement within the body (D2). In this particular situation, the opening (D11) of the chamber (D7) allows air to enter or exit, according to the movement of the piston (D3), preventing the formation of vacuum in the chamber (D7). For the metering device (D) to be refilled with gas, the piston rod (D13) recedes, retracting the plunger (D3), allowing the gas to enter the chamber (D6).
    The position sensor (D1) can be installed on the piston (D3), on the piston rod (D13) (D12), or on the body (D2).
    The present dosing device (D) can be used connected to the reservoir (2) of the gas supply truck (C) which, in particular, comprises a tapered lower portion (21), in order to direct the liquefied gas at the entrance (D4) of the dosing device (D). In this situation, there is the supply line (15) from the outlet (D5) that advances to the compartment (4) to connect with the cylinders (3), through the retractable coupler (9).
    The metering device (D) can be installed inside or outside the gas tank (2). When installed inside the reservoir (2) (figures 11 and 11 A), as it is in a gas environment, the gas enters or leaves the opening (D11), avoiding vacuum in the chamber (D7). In this particular situation, the lower portion (21) of the reservoir (2), is closed by a lid (T), where said dosing device (D) is supported.
    Additionally, when said dosing device (D) is installed outside the reservoir (2) (see figures 7 and 7A), the hose (D10) can comprise a coil (not shown), to assist in a primary stabilization of the gas temperature that enters the chamber (D6).
    The gas enters the dosing device (D) through the hose (D10), passes through the counterflow valve, proceeding to the chamber (D6), through the inlet (D4), at which time its temperature is measured for the start of the potting process. After a choice of the amount of gas by weight has been made through the panel (5), the plunger (D3) is activated, making the gas flow from the dosing device (D) to the supply line (15), which directs it to the cylinder (3), by means of the retractable coupler (9) and the filling valve (7) of the cylinder (3).
    As an added security, when using the dosing device (D), the weight measurement system (12) essentially assumes the function of ensuring that the maximum weight of the cylinder (3) is not exceeded. Thus, in the event of a failure to monitor the system pressure, or the overload control mechanism associated with the filling valve safety valve (7), the weight measurement system (12) identifies the excess weight and communicates it to the monitoring system to end the recharge.
    As an example of application of the present system (1) illustrated in figure 5, there are three compartments (4) applied to a truck (C) with a gas reservoir (2), which thus moves to the residences to fill the cylinders (3) directly on site. It will be understood that the present invention is not limited to three compartments (4) or a single reservoir (2), but can have more or less compartments and more than one reservoir without deviating from the spirit or scope of the invention.
    Another example of application of the present system (1) is illustrated in figure 6, where the compartment (4) is attached to a retail outlet, such as a gas station, a supermarket parking lot, a mall, etc. In this particular situation, the compartment (4) is preferably positioned on a base structure, particularly in the form of a stationary support (41), which keeps it away from the floor.
    Preferably, the filling is done automatically, and therefore, the present invention includes a method of filling a gas cylinder that, as illustrated by figure 12, comprises the following steps: 1) Positioning a cylinder (3 ) in the potting compartment (4); 2) Measuring the weight of the cylinder (3); 3) Closing the door (6) and automatically activating one or more locking means (8) to prevent user access to the compartment (4); 4) Reading the information specified by the manufacturer, regarding the expiration date of the cylinder (3); 5) Closing of the filling operation, if it is found that the expiration date of the cylinder (3) has expired, in the previous step; 6) Selection of a quantity of fluid to be filled by means of the keys (5a) located on the panel (5), if it is detected that the expiration date of the cylinder (3) has not expired, as provided in step (5); 7) Coupling of the retractable coupler (9) in the filling valve (7) of the cylinder (3); 8) Termination of the filling operation, if the retractable coupler (9) and the filling valve (7) are connected incorrectly; 9) Transfer of the amount of fluid selected in the sixth stage, from the reservoir (2) to the cylinder (3); 10) Determination of the piston movement and pressure (when the piston-type metering device (D) is used as previously described); 11) Interruption of the transfer of the pre-selected amount of fluid, when it is detected that the pressure limit of the cylinder (3), weight limit of the cylinder (3), or even the advance of the piston (D3) have been reached; 12) Decoupling the retractable coupler (9) from the filling valve (7) of the cylinder (3); 13) Deactivating the locking means (8) of the door (6) of the compartment (4), and 14) Removing the cylinder (3) from the compartment (4).
    As indicated in the first step, the cylinder (3) is positioned in the cradle (13) inside the box (40) that is on the measurement system (12), where its weight is measured. The cradle (13) keeps the filling valve (7) of the cylinder (3) centralized with the retractable coupler (9), allowing the retractable coupler (9) to be coupled to the filling valve (7) automatically.
    In step 3, the door (6) of the compartment (4) is closed, keeping the cylinder (3) isolated from the user or other people during the filling operation. With the closing of the door (6) the locking means (8) is activated, at the same time that the retractable support (10) is activated, moving the retractable coupler (9) until its coupling in the filling valve (7) the cylinder (3). Then choose an amount of gas to be filled by pressing appropriate keys (5a) located on the control panel (5).
    Before selecting the amount of fluid to be filled, a check for the occurrence of an adequate connection between the retractable coupler (9) and the filling valve (7) is provided. In this way, if the expiration date has not expired, the filling operation is performed. Otherwise, the operation is canceled.
    Once an amount of fluid is chosen, it is transferred from the reservoir (2) to the cylinder (3), while the measuring system (12) measures the change in weight of the cylinder (3). This transfer is carried out with the aid of a hydraulic or pneumatic pump (not shown) or with a dosing device (D).
    The filling operation is interrupted and the compartment door (6) is unlocked before the predetermined amount of fluid has been transferred to the gas cylinder (3), when at least one of the following conditions has occurred: 1) a gas cylinder pressure limit (3) has been reached; 2) a weight limit has been reached for the gas cylinder (3); and 3) an incorrect connection has occurred between the retractable coupler (9) and the filling valve (7).
    The internal pressure of the cylinder (3) is monitored by the pressure sensor (not shown), positioned in the supply line (15) or in the retractable coupler (9), which thus interrupts the gas flow when reaching the capacity limit of the cylinder (3). In this way, the gas transfer can be interrupted not only when the chosen amount of gas is reached, but also when the internal pressure of the cylinder (3) exceeds a predetermined maximum value for the cylinder (3).
    When the pressure limit, cylinder weight limit (3), or the piston advance (D3) is reached, recharge is completed, interrupting the gas flow from the reservoir (2) to the cylinder (3) .
    After the completion of the filling, step 11, the retractable coupler (9) is detached from the filling valve (7), through its recoil, releasing the locking means (8) of the safety door (6). The display (50) on the control panel (5) indicates the final price to be charged to the final consumer. The locking means (8) is preferably automated, being able to be mechanical and equipped with a sensor, which indicates whether the door is closed or open, releasing or closing the gas refill.
    According to another example of the present invention, the present system (1) can be used manually, in which option the retractable coupler (9) on the filling valve (7) of the cylinder (3) is carried out manually by the operator before closing the compartment (4). After closing the compartment (4), the gas is released from the container (2) until the weight of the cylinder (3) reaches the desired value or its pressure limit is reached.
    When using a metering device (D), the present method also comprises the following steps, after the step of coupling the retractable coupler (9) to the filling valve (7): a) Activating the metering device (D) with checking the chamber temperature (D6) and the plunger position (D3) of the dosing device (D), to fill the total chamber volume (D6); b) Calculation of the gas density, the mass quantity of gas in the chamber (D6); and the piston advance value (D3), from the chamber temperature values (D6), the initial position of the piston (D3) and the amount of gas chosen in the previous stage; c) Piston advance (D3) to exit the gas to the supply line, or supply line (15); d) Interruption of the piston advance (D3) if the limit pressure or the limit weight of the cylinder (3) is reached, or if the position of the piston (D3) defined in step (b) is reached.
    In this particular situation, the dosing device (D) is activated after coupling the retractable coupler (9) to the filling valve (7), when the chamber temperature readings (D6) and plunger position (D3) are then taken. , by the temperature (not shown) and position (D1) sensors.
    After receiving these readings the program of the processing and management unit of the panel (5) of the system (1), calculates the gas density, the amount of mass gas contained in the chamber (D6), and the piston advance (D3) so that the amount of gas defined by the operator is filled into the cylinder (3).
    If the value of the mass contained in the chamber (D6) is lower than the one chosen for refilling the cylinder (3), the plunger (D3) is activated to enter more gas in said chamber (D6), promoting its removal from the body (D2 ).
    If the value of the mass contained in the chamber (D6) is greater than that chosen to refill the cylinder (3), the movement of the piston (D3) is activated to fill the cylinder (3). This movement from the piston (D3) to the filling of the cylinder (3) is interrupted after the chosen quantity of gas has been filled into the cylinder (3).
    If the pressure in the cylinder (3) is extrapolated, or the chosen weight is reached, the said program of the processing and management unit interrupts the movement of the piston (D3), ceasing the gas supply.
    The scope of the present invention should not be limited to the illustrated example, but only to the terms defined in the claims and their equivalents.
    权利要求:
    Claims (22)
    [0001]
    1 - System for filling a portable gas cylinder with a pre-selected amount of fluid to supply the energy demands of a user, characterized by comprising a reservoir (2) for the supply of a volume of pressurized fluid; a compartment (4) for receiving a gas cylinder (3); and a supply line (15) that extends between the reservoir (2) and the compartment (4) for the delivery of the pressurized fluid to the gas cylinder (3), in which: the compartment (4) is closed and has a door (6) that can be accessed by a user only before and after a filling operation to load and unload the gas cylinder (3); a retractable coupler (9) is connected to the supply line (15), the coupler (9) being located in the compartment (4) and thus being automatically movable towards a filling valve (7) positioned in the gas cylinder (3 ) which, during the filling operation, connects with the filling valve (7) to supply a quantity of fluid under pressure to the gas cylinder (3) from the reservoir (2); a control panel (5) with a user interface for selecting a quantity of pressurized fluid to be delivered to the gas cylinder (3); a first sensor positioned to detect when the pre-selected amount of fluid has been delivered to the gas cylinder (3); and a processor operationally associated with the control panel (5), the first sensor and the retractable coupler (9) automatically interrupts the filling operation and moves the coupler (9) away from the filling valve (7) when the first sensor detects that the pre-selected amount of fluid has been delivered to the gas cylinder (3).
    [0002]
    2 - System for filling a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the door (6) includes a locking means (8) operable by a processor to automatically lock the door (6) in a closed position during the filling operation and unlock the door (6) after the filling operation.
    [0003]
    3 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized by the fact that the first sensor determines one of the pressure limit and the weight limit for the gas cylinder (3 ).
    [0004]
    4 - Filling system of a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that the processor is operable to stop the filling operation before the delivery of the pre-selected amount of fluid is completed, when the first sensor detects that the limit of the gas cylinder (3) has been reached.
    [0005]
    5 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 4, characterized by the fact that the first sensor determines at least one of a weight limit and a volume limit for the gas cylinder (3).
    [0006]
    6 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that a second sensor is provided to determine a pressure limit of the gas cylinder (3).
    [0007]
    7 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that the processor is operable to stop the filling operation before the delivery of the pre-selected amount of fluid is completed when at least one between the first and second sensors detects that at least one of the weight limit, volume limit and pressure limit of the gas cylinder (3) has been reached.
    [0008]
    8 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to any one of claims 6 to 7, characterized by the fact that the second sensor is located in the retractable coupler (9).
    [0009]
    9 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact that a cradle (13) is located in the compartment (4) to receive the gas cylinder (3), so that the filling valve (7) of the gas cylinder (3) is in alignment with the retractable coupler (9).
    [0010]
    10 - System for filling a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 9, characterized by the fact that the first sensor comprises a load cell located under the cradle (13) to detect the weight of the gas cylinder (3) .
    [0011]
    11 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by the fact that an additional sensor is provided to determine a correct connection between the retractable coupler (9) and the filling valve (7) in the gas cylinder (3), the processor being operable to cancel the filling operation and retract the coupler (9) when an incorrect connection occurs.
    [0012]
    12 - System for filling a portable gas cylinder, according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterized by the fact that a display (50) is connected to the processor to indicate a selected amount of fluid to be delivered to the cylinder gas (3) and to indicate the completion of the filling operation.
    [0013]
    13 - System for filling a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that a fluid dosing device (D) is operationally associated with the reservoir (2) to transfer the fluid from the reservoir (2) to the gas cylinder (3).
    [0014]
    14 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 13, characterized in that the fluid metering device (D) comprises a hollow body (D2), a plunger (D3) located in the hollow body (D2) for reciprocal movement in relation to it, an inlet (D4) connected to the reservoir (2) and an outlet (D5) connected to the supply line (15), such that the movement of the piston (D3) in one direction makes with the fluid entering the hollow body (D2) through the inlet (D4) of the reservoir (2), and the movement of the plunger (D3) in the opposite direction causes the fluid to flow through the outlet (D5) to the line supply (15).
    [0015]
    15 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 14, characterized by the fact that the dosing device (D) further comprises a temperature sensor associated with the hollow body (D2) and an associated position sensor to the plunger (D3), both being in communication with the processor to thereby calculate and control the movement of the plunger (D3) to deliver the preselected amount of fluid based on a change in fluid volume due to a change in temperature.
    [0016]
    16 - System for filling a portable gas cylinder, according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by the fact that the gas cylinder (3) comprises electronic information related to a valid date of use and also includes a reader to detect the date of use, the processor being operationally associated with the reader to determine a valid or expired status of the gas cylinder (3).
    [0017]
    17 - A portable gas cylinder filling system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized by the fact that the compartment (4) is mounted on a stationary support (41).
    [0018]
    18 - Filling system for a portable gas cylinder, according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized by the fact that the reservoir (2) and compartment (4) are mounted on a motor vehicle to transport the system to locations many different.
    [0019]
    19. A portable gas cylinder filling system according to any one of claims 17 to 18, characterized in that a plurality of compartments (4) is provided, each compartment (4) comprising a door (6) ) separately and independently operable; a retractable coupler (9), a control panel and a first sensor operationally connected to at least one processor.
    [0020]
    20 - Method of filling a portable gas cylinder using a system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized by the fact that it comprises the following steps: positioning a gas cylinder (3) in the compartment (4); lock the compartment door (6) in a closed position to prevent user access; program a pre-selected amount of fluid to be transferred from the reservoir (2) to the gas cylinder (3); moving the retractable coupler (9) towards the filling valve (7) of the gas cylinder (3) to thus connect the coupler (9) to the filling valve (7); e) determining the occurrence of an adequate connection between the coupler (9) and the filling valve (7); direct the fluid from the reservoir (2) to the gas cylinder (3) through the supply line (15); interrupting the flow of fluid from the reservoir (2), when it is found that the predetermined amount of fluid has been transferred; retract the coupler (9) from the filling valve (7); and unlocking the door (6) of the compartment (4) to allow user access to remove the gas cylinder (3) from the compartment (4).
    [0021]
    21 - Method of filling a portable gas cylinder, according to claim 20, characterized by the fact that the filling operation is interrupted and the door (6) of the compartment (4) is unlocked before the predetermined quantity of fluid has been transferred to the gas cylinder (3) when at least one of the following conditions has occurred: 1) a pressure limit of the gas cylinder (3) has been reached; 2) a weight limit has been reached for the gas cylinder (3); and 3) an incorrect connection has occurred between the retractable coupler (9) and the filling valve (7).
    [0022]
    22 - Method of filling a portable gas cylinder, according to any one of claims 20 to 21, characterized by the fact that 10 further comprises the steps of detecting a valid date of use of the gas cylinder (3) before connect the coupler (9) to the filling valve (7) and unlock the compartment door (6) to allow a user to remove the gas cylinder (3) without transferring the fluid to the gas cylinder (3) .
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    RU2592697C2|2016-07-27|
    BR112013003800A2|2020-06-16|
    MX2013001841A|2013-03-21|
    RU2013112335A|2014-09-27|
    US9139313B2|2015-09-22|
    BRPI1002740A2|2012-05-29|
    CN103069208B|2015-08-12|
    CN103069208A|2013-04-24|
    US20130153084A1|2013-06-20|
    KR20130140642A|2013-12-24|
    JP2013537606A|2013-10-03|
    CL2013000497A1|2013-10-04|
    MX349258B|2017-07-19|
    BRPI1002740B1|2020-12-29|
    WO2012021953A1|2012-02-23|
    MY157468A|2016-06-15|
    KR101812288B1|2017-12-26|
    WO2012021953A4|2012-04-12|
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    法律状态:
    2020-06-30| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2020-07-21| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-08-11| B25A| Requested transfer of rights approved|Owner name: FLAVIO CAMILOTTI (US) ; DANNA PARTICIPACOES EIRELI (BR/SC) |
    2020-09-29| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 22/11/2010, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    2021-07-20| B25A| Requested transfer of rights approved|Owner name: BRAZIL GAS LOGISTICS S/A (BR/SC) |
    2021-12-07| B25L| Entry of change of name and/or headquarter and transfer of application, patent and certificate of addition of invention: publication cancelled|Owner name: FLAVIO CAMILOTTI (US) ; DANNA PARTICIPACOES EIRELI (BR/SC) Free format text: ANULADA A PUBLICACAO CODIGO 25.1 NA RPI NO 2637 DE 20/07/2021 POR TER SIDO INDEVIDA. |
    2021-12-21| B25C| Requirement related to requested transfer of rights|Owner name: FLAVIO CAMILOTTI (US) ; DANNA PARTICIPACOES EIRELI (BR/SC) Free format text: A FIM DE ATENDER A TRANSFERENCIA, REQUERIDA ATRAVES DA PETICAO NO 870210052075 DE 10/06/2021, E NECESSARIO APRESENTAR DOCUMENTO QUE COMPROVE QUE O REPRESENTANTE DA CEDENTE TEM PODERES PARA REALIZAR TAL ATO. ALEM DISSO, E PRECISO APRESENTAR A GUIA DE CUMPRIMENTO DE EXIGENCIA. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    BRPI1002740-8A|BRPI1002740B1|2010-08-20|2010-08-20|compact gas filling system|
    BRPI1002740-8|2010-08-20|
    PCT/BR2010/000379|WO2012021953A1|2010-08-20|2010-11-22|Compact gas-bottling system and method|
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