CA1062142A - Liquid cryogen dispensing apparatus - Google Patents
Liquid cryogen dispensing apparatusInfo
- Publication number
- CA1062142A CA1062142A CA295,250A CA295250A CA1062142A CA 1062142 A CA1062142 A CA 1062142A CA 295250 A CA295250 A CA 295250A CA 1062142 A CA1062142 A CA 1062142A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- liquid
- pressurizing
- pressure
- supply vessel
- vessel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 73
- IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N Atomic nitrogen Chemical compound N#N IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 60
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 29
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000009835 boiling Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- GRYSXUXXBDSYRT-WOUKDFQISA-N (2r,3r,4r,5r)-2-(hydroxymethyl)-4-methoxy-5-[6-(methylamino)purin-9-yl]oxolan-3-ol Chemical compound C1=NC=2C(NC)=NC=NC=2N1[C@@H]1O[C@H](CO)[C@@H](O)[C@H]1OC GRYSXUXXBDSYRT-WOUKDFQISA-N 0.000 claims 1
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 abstract description 8
- 239000003507 refrigerant Substances 0.000 abstract 1
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 7
- 238000011282 treatment Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000001965 increasing effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000002459 sustained effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 208000036366 Sensation of pressure Diseases 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910001873 dinitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241000283690 Bos taurus Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 206010028980 Neoplasm Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 201000010099 disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000037265 diseases, disorders, signs and symptoms Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008014 freezing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003902 lesion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000523 sample Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009834 vaporization Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008016 vaporization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013022 venting Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C9/00—Methods or apparatus for discharging liquefied or solidified gases from vessels not under pressure
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B18/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body
- A61B18/02—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by cooling, e.g. cryogenic techniques
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61D—VETERINARY INSTRUMENTS, IMPLEMENTS, TOOLS, OR METHODS
- A61D7/00—Devices or methods for introducing solid, liquid, or gaseous remedies or other materials into or onto the bodies of animals
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2223/00—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel
- F17C2223/01—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the phase
- F17C2223/0146—Two-phase
- F17C2223/0153—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL
- F17C2223/0161—Liquefied gas, e.g. LPG, GPL cryogenic, e.g. LNG, GNL, PLNG
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F17—STORING OR DISTRIBUTING GASES OR LIQUIDS
- F17C—VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES
- F17C2250/00—Accessories; Control means; Indicating, measuring or monitoring of parameters
- F17C2250/01—Intermediate tanks
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Surgery (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Medical Informatics (AREA)
- Molecular Biology (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Otolaryngology (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
- Zoology (AREA)
- Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)
- Thermotherapy And Cooling Therapy Devices (AREA)
- Loading And Unloading Of Fuel Tanks Or Ships (AREA)
- Feeding, Discharge, Calcimining, Fusing, And Gas-Generation Devices (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A system for dispensing among other things a cryogen such as liquid nitrogen. The system employs two vessels. One vessel serves as a pressure vessel and the other as a storage vessel. Liquid cryogen from the pressure vessel is vaporized in a ballast chamber exposed to ambient temperature, re-sulting in pressurized refrigerant gas. A valve selectively admits the pres-surized gas into the liquid storage vessel, causing the stored liquid to be dispensed at a selected site.
A system for dispensing among other things a cryogen such as liquid nitrogen. The system employs two vessels. One vessel serves as a pressure vessel and the other as a storage vessel. Liquid cryogen from the pressure vessel is vaporized in a ballast chamber exposed to ambient temperature, re-sulting in pressurized refrigerant gas. A valve selectively admits the pres-surized gas into the liquid storage vessel, causing the stored liquid to be dispensed at a selected site.
Description
lt~ 4~
Liquid nitrogen is commonly used by dermatologists and other medi-cal practitioners for the treatment of various tumors and lesions. Such treat-ment is well accepted and has been utilized for a number of years. The methods of application vary widely. Some physicians, for example, apply the liquid nitrogen with a cotton swab. Others utilize a more sophisticated approach, using specially designed self-pressurizing flasks such as those shown in United States patents 3,702,114 and 3,739,956. The latter method, while effective, is somewhat limited by the relatively small volume of liquid nitrogen which can be contained in the flask. Furthermore, the self-pressurizing nature of the flask means that pressure drops considerably upon use so that sustained dispensing of the liquid nitrogen cannot be achieved.
In many larger liquid nitrogen systems, such as those for use in neurosurgery, the pressure problem has been overcome by the insertion of h0aters into the liquid nitrogen containers. This has the obvious disadvantage of requiring an external power supply and also of introducing additional elec-trical circuitry into the operating room atmosphere. Still another problem ' encountered with these larger capacity liquid nitrogen systems, is that the valves controlling the liquid nitrogen flow are highly susceptible to freezing and become inoperable.
There are also certain circumstances wherein it would be highly desirable to be able to transport a liquid nitrogen treatment facility into the field. For example, liquid nitrogen has been used quite successfully by veterinarians for the treatment of certain diseases of cattle. To be success-fully used for this purpose, the apparatus should be light in weight, of re-. latively high capacity, and not require any external power supply.
Other features, which are difficult to achieve in prior art systems but are highly desirable, are simple regulation of the liquid nitrogen dis- ~
charge velocity, accurate control with abrupt termination of liquid nitrogen ~ -flow when desired, and a pulsed spray rather than a continuous stream. A
pulsed spray reduces dripping of sprayed liquid and improves visibility at the . . . .
., -1- ~ "~ .
.', ~ .:
.'-, ' 1~6~14'~
site.
Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a simplified system for dispensing among other things, a liquid cryogen. Furthermore it would be ad-vantageous to have such a system: which does not require an electrical power supply; wherein valving is not exposed to liquid cryogen; which has a large capacity of cryogen; which has sustained dispensing ability; which permits either continuous flow or pulsed flow; and which has improved accuracy of con-trol.
Accordingly the present invention provides apparatus for dispensing ' 10 a liquid which comprises: a pressure vessel containing therein a quantity of a pressurizing liquid having a boiling point below ambient temperature and a vapor space; a ballast chamber having its interior in heat transfer relation-ship with the exterior atmosphere said exterior atmosphere being at said am-bient temperature; a first transfer conduit having a first end positioned with-in said pressure vessel below the normal level of pressurizing liquid therein and a second end positioned in said ballast chamber; a supply vessel contain-ing therein a quantity of liquid to be dispensed; a liquid dispensing line - having a first end positioned within said supply vessel below the normal level of liquid therein and a second, discharge, end at a liquid utilization device;
and means for selectively interconnecting the interior of said ballast chamber , with the interior of said supply vessel to pressurize said supply vessel and dispense said liquid therefrom.
In drawings which illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, - -Figure 1 illustrates a system,constructed in accordance with the present invention, in partial cross section to illustrate its internal con-struction;
Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the system of Figure 1 showing ~ -; the system in its static mode; and Figure 3 is an illustration similar to Figure 2, showing the system in its dispensing mode.
:. .
With particular reference to Figure 1, there is illustrated a sys-tem in accordance with the present invention, comprising a pressure vessel 10 and a liquid storage vessel 12, interconnected through a ballast chamber 14, to supply a spray gun 16 through an insulated delivery line 18. Delivery line 18 may be constructed in any of a variety of ways. One suitable form of con-struction is disclosed in United States Patent 3,907,339. Pressure vessel 10 : and storage vessel 12 are substantially identical and, accordingly, similar parts thereof will be assigned similar reference numerals. Each is a conven-tional Dewar comprising an internal flast 20 and an outer casing 22 defining a vacuum space 24 therebetween. The mouth 26 of each vessel is closed by a con-ventional cap assembly 28, having inlet port 30 and outlet port 32. The pres-sure vessel 10 encloses a cryogenic liquid 34 and a vapor space 36. Similarly, the storage vessel 12 encloses a cryogenic liquid 38 and a vapor space 40. In the described embodiment, the cryogenic liquids 34 and 38, are both liquid nitrogen. However, it is not essential that the same liquid be enclosed in each of the vessels. The inlet port 30 of vessel 10 may be connected through a pressure relief valve 42 to a pressure vent valve 44 and a vent 46.
The ballast chamber 14, which interconnects the vessels 10 and 12, is exposed to the temperature of the ambient atmosphere and is constructed of a material, such as aluminum, having relatively high heat conductivity. A
line 48 extends from within the pressure vessel 10 and below the level of the -liquid 34, to within the interior of the ballast chamber 14. A pressure guage 50 permits monitoring of the internal pressure of the chamber 14.
A control line 52 extends from within the ballast chamber 14, and passes between the outer sheath 54 and inner tube 56 of the delivery line 18 to one port of a three-way valve 58 mounted in the pistol grip 60 of spray gun ' 16, where it may be actuated by a trigger 62. Another line 64 extends from the three-way valve 58, and beneath sheath 54, to the operating port of a piloted three-way main valve 66.
A pressure line 68 extends from the ballast chamber 14 and passes ;
: ~ -, .
14'~
through a pressure regulator 70 and main valve 66, to the inlet port 30 of storage vessel 12. Intermediate the pressure regulator 70 and main valve 66, there is mounted a pressure gauge 72.
A dip tube 74 extends from below the level of the liquid 38 in the storage vessel 12, and connects to the inner tube 56 of the delivery line 18 and into fluid flow communication with a nozzle 76 on spray gun 16. It is to be understood that the system of this invention is not limited to use with a gun for spraying liquid nitrogen. The open nozzle, for example, could be re-placed by a cryosurgical probe having suitable means for venting exhaust gas.
The operation of the system of this invention will now be explained, with particular reference to the schematic diagrams of Figures 2 and 3. In these diagrams, elements similar to those illustrated in Figure 1 are given similar reference numerals. In these illustrations, the three-way valves 58, 66, are shown as substantially identical slide valves. Three-way valve 58 is illustrated as including a housing 78 and an inner slide 80 operable by the trigger 62 against the force of a spring 82. The inner slide 80 defines a ~ , .
pair of passages 84, 86, which are alignable with ports 88, 90, 92 in the hous-ing 78. Main valve 66 is similarly constructed and the parts are given similar reference numerals. The primary distinction between valves 66 and 58 is that main valve 66 is operated pneumatically within the housing 78 by pressure exterted through line 64.
Figure 2 illustrates the system of the invention in its static con-dition. In this condition liquid nitrogen exists in the pressure vessel 10, the vapor space above the liquid being filled with nitrogen gas. Nitrogen gas ; alone exists within the ballast chamber 14, which is at ambient atmospheric -temperature considerably above the boiling point of liquid nitrogen. The con-trol line 52 and the pressure line 68 are both snubbed off by the respective three-way valves 58, 66 and, accordingly, the pressures within the pressure - vessel 10 and the ballast chamber 14 are equalized. The liquid storage vessel 12 also contains liquid nitrogen, but the vapor space above the liquid is vent-': '' ' . .
4'~
ed to atmosphere through pressure line 68 and passage 84 of main valve 66.
In order to dispense liquid nitrogen from the system, the trigger 62 is pressed, causing actuation of three-way valve 58 to the condition illus-trated in Figure 3. The reservoir of pressurized gas within the ballast cham-ber 14 is now connected through the passage 86 of valve 58 and through line 64 to main valve 66, which is thereby actuated to the illustrated position. In this position, the gas within the ballast chamber 14 is also supplied through the pressure regulator 70, and the passage 86 of main valve 66 to the vapor space within the liquid storage vessel 12. The increased pressure causes liquid nitrogen to be forced outwardly through tube 56 to the spray nozzle or other device. The pressure within ballast chamber 14 is self-replenishing, As the gas pressure therein is released, the imbalance in the pressures within pressure vessel 10 and chamber 14 causes additional liquid nitrogen to pass into the chamber 14 via line 48. This liquid nitrogen immediately flash vapor-izes upon entering the chamber 14 thereby continually replenishing the pres-sure as required. Upon release of the trigger 62, the valves 58, 66, return -~
to the positions illustrated in Figure 2. This immediately vents the storage vessel 12 to atmosphere through passage 84 of main valve 66, thereby immediate-ly terminating the flow of liquid nitrogen.
The pressure regulator 70 serves an important function in permitting -` sustained pulsating flow of cryogen from a spray nozzle. This is a valuable feature as it prevents liquid dripping or running from the operative site and also provides better visibility of the site. The pulsing is caused by the for-.. ~ .
mation of bubbles of gas in the cryogenic liquid due to heat absorbed as it flows through the delivery line 18. A higher flow rate exceeds the heat trans- ;fer capability of the delivery line insulation, resulting in a continuous li-; quid stream being ejected. A lower flow rate would result in vaporization of - a greater quantity of cryogen with increased gas and decreased liquid delivery.
The pressure regulator 70 permits the liquid flow to be precisely matched to the heat transfer through the delivery line 18 for optimal pulsing action.
, : . :
:, ' i~36i~14~
It is believed that the many advantages of this invention will now be apparent to those skilled in the art. One such advantage is that no valve throughout the system is exposed to liquid nitrogen, this obviating the freeze-up problem encountered in many prior art designs. Furthermore, the system operates completely without any electrical power requirement, thereby increas-ing its safety and making it practical for portable field work.
In the foregoing particular description, an embodiment of the pre-sent invention has been described as operable with liquid nitrogen. However, it will be understood that other fluids may be employed. In fact, two differ-ent liquids may be utilized, a low boiling ~below ambient) temperature fluid within the pressure vessel 10 for providing the motive force, and any other de-sired liquid within the storage vessel 12 which is to be dispensed. Also, the ballast chamber has been described as a relatively large volume chamber. Other configurations such as, for example, a coiled metal tube could be utilized.
Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to medical or surgical appli-cations, but may have other uses as well. Accordingly, it will be understood that various modifications may be made in this invention without departing from its spirit and scope.
: .
Liquid nitrogen is commonly used by dermatologists and other medi-cal practitioners for the treatment of various tumors and lesions. Such treat-ment is well accepted and has been utilized for a number of years. The methods of application vary widely. Some physicians, for example, apply the liquid nitrogen with a cotton swab. Others utilize a more sophisticated approach, using specially designed self-pressurizing flasks such as those shown in United States patents 3,702,114 and 3,739,956. The latter method, while effective, is somewhat limited by the relatively small volume of liquid nitrogen which can be contained in the flask. Furthermore, the self-pressurizing nature of the flask means that pressure drops considerably upon use so that sustained dispensing of the liquid nitrogen cannot be achieved.
In many larger liquid nitrogen systems, such as those for use in neurosurgery, the pressure problem has been overcome by the insertion of h0aters into the liquid nitrogen containers. This has the obvious disadvantage of requiring an external power supply and also of introducing additional elec-trical circuitry into the operating room atmosphere. Still another problem ' encountered with these larger capacity liquid nitrogen systems, is that the valves controlling the liquid nitrogen flow are highly susceptible to freezing and become inoperable.
There are also certain circumstances wherein it would be highly desirable to be able to transport a liquid nitrogen treatment facility into the field. For example, liquid nitrogen has been used quite successfully by veterinarians for the treatment of certain diseases of cattle. To be success-fully used for this purpose, the apparatus should be light in weight, of re-. latively high capacity, and not require any external power supply.
Other features, which are difficult to achieve in prior art systems but are highly desirable, are simple regulation of the liquid nitrogen dis- ~
charge velocity, accurate control with abrupt termination of liquid nitrogen ~ -flow when desired, and a pulsed spray rather than a continuous stream. A
pulsed spray reduces dripping of sprayed liquid and improves visibility at the . . . .
., -1- ~ "~ .
.', ~ .:
.'-, ' 1~6~14'~
site.
Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a simplified system for dispensing among other things, a liquid cryogen. Furthermore it would be ad-vantageous to have such a system: which does not require an electrical power supply; wherein valving is not exposed to liquid cryogen; which has a large capacity of cryogen; which has sustained dispensing ability; which permits either continuous flow or pulsed flow; and which has improved accuracy of con-trol.
Accordingly the present invention provides apparatus for dispensing ' 10 a liquid which comprises: a pressure vessel containing therein a quantity of a pressurizing liquid having a boiling point below ambient temperature and a vapor space; a ballast chamber having its interior in heat transfer relation-ship with the exterior atmosphere said exterior atmosphere being at said am-bient temperature; a first transfer conduit having a first end positioned with-in said pressure vessel below the normal level of pressurizing liquid therein and a second end positioned in said ballast chamber; a supply vessel contain-ing therein a quantity of liquid to be dispensed; a liquid dispensing line - having a first end positioned within said supply vessel below the normal level of liquid therein and a second, discharge, end at a liquid utilization device;
and means for selectively interconnecting the interior of said ballast chamber , with the interior of said supply vessel to pressurize said supply vessel and dispense said liquid therefrom.
In drawings which illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, - -Figure 1 illustrates a system,constructed in accordance with the present invention, in partial cross section to illustrate its internal con-struction;
Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the system of Figure 1 showing ~ -; the system in its static mode; and Figure 3 is an illustration similar to Figure 2, showing the system in its dispensing mode.
:. .
With particular reference to Figure 1, there is illustrated a sys-tem in accordance with the present invention, comprising a pressure vessel 10 and a liquid storage vessel 12, interconnected through a ballast chamber 14, to supply a spray gun 16 through an insulated delivery line 18. Delivery line 18 may be constructed in any of a variety of ways. One suitable form of con-struction is disclosed in United States Patent 3,907,339. Pressure vessel 10 : and storage vessel 12 are substantially identical and, accordingly, similar parts thereof will be assigned similar reference numerals. Each is a conven-tional Dewar comprising an internal flast 20 and an outer casing 22 defining a vacuum space 24 therebetween. The mouth 26 of each vessel is closed by a con-ventional cap assembly 28, having inlet port 30 and outlet port 32. The pres-sure vessel 10 encloses a cryogenic liquid 34 and a vapor space 36. Similarly, the storage vessel 12 encloses a cryogenic liquid 38 and a vapor space 40. In the described embodiment, the cryogenic liquids 34 and 38, are both liquid nitrogen. However, it is not essential that the same liquid be enclosed in each of the vessels. The inlet port 30 of vessel 10 may be connected through a pressure relief valve 42 to a pressure vent valve 44 and a vent 46.
The ballast chamber 14, which interconnects the vessels 10 and 12, is exposed to the temperature of the ambient atmosphere and is constructed of a material, such as aluminum, having relatively high heat conductivity. A
line 48 extends from within the pressure vessel 10 and below the level of the -liquid 34, to within the interior of the ballast chamber 14. A pressure guage 50 permits monitoring of the internal pressure of the chamber 14.
A control line 52 extends from within the ballast chamber 14, and passes between the outer sheath 54 and inner tube 56 of the delivery line 18 to one port of a three-way valve 58 mounted in the pistol grip 60 of spray gun ' 16, where it may be actuated by a trigger 62. Another line 64 extends from the three-way valve 58, and beneath sheath 54, to the operating port of a piloted three-way main valve 66.
A pressure line 68 extends from the ballast chamber 14 and passes ;
: ~ -, .
14'~
through a pressure regulator 70 and main valve 66, to the inlet port 30 of storage vessel 12. Intermediate the pressure regulator 70 and main valve 66, there is mounted a pressure gauge 72.
A dip tube 74 extends from below the level of the liquid 38 in the storage vessel 12, and connects to the inner tube 56 of the delivery line 18 and into fluid flow communication with a nozzle 76 on spray gun 16. It is to be understood that the system of this invention is not limited to use with a gun for spraying liquid nitrogen. The open nozzle, for example, could be re-placed by a cryosurgical probe having suitable means for venting exhaust gas.
The operation of the system of this invention will now be explained, with particular reference to the schematic diagrams of Figures 2 and 3. In these diagrams, elements similar to those illustrated in Figure 1 are given similar reference numerals. In these illustrations, the three-way valves 58, 66, are shown as substantially identical slide valves. Three-way valve 58 is illustrated as including a housing 78 and an inner slide 80 operable by the trigger 62 against the force of a spring 82. The inner slide 80 defines a ~ , .
pair of passages 84, 86, which are alignable with ports 88, 90, 92 in the hous-ing 78. Main valve 66 is similarly constructed and the parts are given similar reference numerals. The primary distinction between valves 66 and 58 is that main valve 66 is operated pneumatically within the housing 78 by pressure exterted through line 64.
Figure 2 illustrates the system of the invention in its static con-dition. In this condition liquid nitrogen exists in the pressure vessel 10, the vapor space above the liquid being filled with nitrogen gas. Nitrogen gas ; alone exists within the ballast chamber 14, which is at ambient atmospheric -temperature considerably above the boiling point of liquid nitrogen. The con-trol line 52 and the pressure line 68 are both snubbed off by the respective three-way valves 58, 66 and, accordingly, the pressures within the pressure - vessel 10 and the ballast chamber 14 are equalized. The liquid storage vessel 12 also contains liquid nitrogen, but the vapor space above the liquid is vent-': '' ' . .
4'~
ed to atmosphere through pressure line 68 and passage 84 of main valve 66.
In order to dispense liquid nitrogen from the system, the trigger 62 is pressed, causing actuation of three-way valve 58 to the condition illus-trated in Figure 3. The reservoir of pressurized gas within the ballast cham-ber 14 is now connected through the passage 86 of valve 58 and through line 64 to main valve 66, which is thereby actuated to the illustrated position. In this position, the gas within the ballast chamber 14 is also supplied through the pressure regulator 70, and the passage 86 of main valve 66 to the vapor space within the liquid storage vessel 12. The increased pressure causes liquid nitrogen to be forced outwardly through tube 56 to the spray nozzle or other device. The pressure within ballast chamber 14 is self-replenishing, As the gas pressure therein is released, the imbalance in the pressures within pressure vessel 10 and chamber 14 causes additional liquid nitrogen to pass into the chamber 14 via line 48. This liquid nitrogen immediately flash vapor-izes upon entering the chamber 14 thereby continually replenishing the pres-sure as required. Upon release of the trigger 62, the valves 58, 66, return -~
to the positions illustrated in Figure 2. This immediately vents the storage vessel 12 to atmosphere through passage 84 of main valve 66, thereby immediate-ly terminating the flow of liquid nitrogen.
The pressure regulator 70 serves an important function in permitting -` sustained pulsating flow of cryogen from a spray nozzle. This is a valuable feature as it prevents liquid dripping or running from the operative site and also provides better visibility of the site. The pulsing is caused by the for-.. ~ .
mation of bubbles of gas in the cryogenic liquid due to heat absorbed as it flows through the delivery line 18. A higher flow rate exceeds the heat trans- ;fer capability of the delivery line insulation, resulting in a continuous li-; quid stream being ejected. A lower flow rate would result in vaporization of - a greater quantity of cryogen with increased gas and decreased liquid delivery.
The pressure regulator 70 permits the liquid flow to be precisely matched to the heat transfer through the delivery line 18 for optimal pulsing action.
, : . :
:, ' i~36i~14~
It is believed that the many advantages of this invention will now be apparent to those skilled in the art. One such advantage is that no valve throughout the system is exposed to liquid nitrogen, this obviating the freeze-up problem encountered in many prior art designs. Furthermore, the system operates completely without any electrical power requirement, thereby increas-ing its safety and making it practical for portable field work.
In the foregoing particular description, an embodiment of the pre-sent invention has been described as operable with liquid nitrogen. However, it will be understood that other fluids may be employed. In fact, two differ-ent liquids may be utilized, a low boiling ~below ambient) temperature fluid within the pressure vessel 10 for providing the motive force, and any other de-sired liquid within the storage vessel 12 which is to be dispensed. Also, the ballast chamber has been described as a relatively large volume chamber. Other configurations such as, for example, a coiled metal tube could be utilized.
Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to medical or surgical appli-cations, but may have other uses as well. Accordingly, it will be understood that various modifications may be made in this invention without departing from its spirit and scope.
: .
Claims (11)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. Apparatus for dispensing a liquid which comprises: a pressure ves-sel containing therein a quantity of a pressurizing liquid having a boiling point below ambient temperature and a vapor space; a ballast chamber having its interior in heat transfer relationship with the exterior atmosphere said exterior atmosphere being at said ambient temperature;a first transfer conduit having a first end positioned within said pressure vessel below the normal level of pressurizing liquid therein and a second end positioned in said bal-last chamber; a supply vessel containing therein a quantity of liquid to be dispensed; a liquid dispensing line having a first end positioned within said supply vessel below the normal level of liquid therein and a second, discharge, end at a liquid utilization device; and means for selectively interconnecting the interior of said ballast chamber with the interior of said supply vessel to pressurize said supply vessel and dispense said liquid therefrom.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said pressurizing liquid is liquid nitrogen.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said liquid to be dispensed is liquid nitrogen.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein said pressurizing liquid is liquid nitrogen.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said interconnecting means com-prises a pressure regulator for maintaining a preselected pressure within said supply vessel.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said selective interconnecting means comprises: a pressurizing conduit between said ballast chamber and said supply vessel; and means for selectively opening and closing said pressurizing conduit to fluid flow.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said pressurizing conduit includes a pressure regulator for maintaining a preselected pressure within said supply vessel.
8. The apparatus of claim 7 wherein said opening and closing means com-prises: a main valve in said pressurizing conduit; and means for remotely ac-tuating said main valve.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said remote actuating means com-prises: a pilot valve; and a control line connected between said ballast chamber and said main valve through said pilot valve.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein said utilization device is a cryo-surgical instrument and said pilot valve is mounted on said instrument.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said pressurizing and dispensed liquids are liquid nitrogen.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US78396777A | 1977-04-04 | 1977-04-04 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1062142A true CA1062142A (en) | 1979-09-11 |
Family
ID=25130962
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA295,250A Expired CA1062142A (en) | 1977-04-04 | 1978-01-19 | Liquid cryogen dispensing apparatus |
Country Status (9)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPS53122921A (en) |
| BR (1) | BR7800465A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1062142A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE2758893A1 (en) |
| ES (1) | ES465743A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2386773A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB1599533A (en) |
| IT (1) | IT1106975B (en) |
| MX (1) | MX146492A (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE4020074C1 (en) * | 1990-06-23 | 1991-08-22 | Uhde Gmbh, 4600 Dortmund, De | Feed for cryogenic gases - has liquid gas fed via displacement chamber with riser assembly |
| US5507327A (en) * | 1995-03-28 | 1996-04-16 | Vbs Industries, Inc. | Funnel and automatic supply system for liquid nitrogen |
| US7213400B2 (en) * | 2004-10-26 | 2007-05-08 | Respironics In-X, Inc. | Liquefying and storing a gas |
Family Cites Families (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE700679C (en) * | 1937-05-27 | 1940-12-27 | Julius Pintsch Kom Ges | Device for transferring liquefied gases |
| BE634593A (en) * | 1962-07-06 | 1900-01-01 | ||
| US3440829A (en) * | 1963-12-11 | 1969-04-29 | Lab For Electronics Inc | Liquified gas delivery system |
| DE1953835B2 (en) * | 1969-10-25 | 1972-02-24 | Linde Ag, 6200 Wiesbaden | CRYOSURGICAL DEVICE |
| US3710584A (en) * | 1970-10-23 | 1973-01-16 | Cryogenic Eng Co | Low-loss closed-loop supply system for transferring liquified gas from a large container to a small container |
| US3696813A (en) * | 1971-10-06 | 1972-10-10 | Cryomedics | Cryosurgical instrument |
| CA1093332A (en) * | 1976-05-24 | 1981-01-13 | Harold D. Gregory | Self-pressurizing cryogenic apparatus and method |
-
1977
- 1977-12-15 MX MX171734A patent/MX146492A/en unknown
- 1977-12-28 JP JP15871077A patent/JPS53122921A/en active Granted
- 1977-12-30 DE DE19772758893 patent/DE2758893A1/en active Granted
-
1978
- 1978-01-03 ES ES465743A patent/ES465743A1/en not_active Expired
- 1978-01-19 CA CA295,250A patent/CA1062142A/en not_active Expired
- 1978-01-19 IT IT67098/78A patent/IT1106975B/en active
- 1978-01-26 BR BR7800465A patent/BR7800465A/en unknown
- 1978-01-31 FR FR7802645A patent/FR2386773A1/en active Granted
- 1978-04-03 GB GB12988/78A patent/GB1599533A/en not_active Expired
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE2758893A1 (en) | 1978-10-12 |
| DE2758893C2 (en) | 1987-05-21 |
| IT7867098A0 (en) | 1978-01-19 |
| GB1599533A (en) | 1981-10-07 |
| JPS6133587B2 (en) | 1986-08-02 |
| FR2386773A1 (en) | 1978-11-03 |
| MX146492A (en) | 1982-07-02 |
| FR2386773B1 (en) | 1982-11-12 |
| ES465743A1 (en) | 1979-01-01 |
| BR7800465A (en) | 1978-11-21 |
| IT1106975B (en) | 1985-11-18 |
| JPS53122921A (en) | 1978-10-26 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US4201319A (en) | Dispensing system employing liquid cryogen | |
| US3613689A (en) | Cryosurgical apparatus | |
| US3794039A (en) | Apparatus for cryosurgery | |
| US4376376A (en) | Cryogenic device operable in single or dual phase with a range of nozzle sizes and method of using the same | |
| US6910510B2 (en) | Portable, cryogenic gas delivery apparatus | |
| US20100168726A1 (en) | Cryogenic Dispensing System and Method for Treatment of Dermatological Conditions | |
| US9695983B2 (en) | Fuel tank partition and method of use | |
| US11172975B2 (en) | Portable electro-mechanical cryosurgical device | |
| US4367743A (en) | Self-pressurizing cryogenic apparatus and method | |
| HU203995B (en) | Method and apparatus for fine dispersing fluid or powder in gaseous medium advantageously air | |
| CA1062142A (en) | Liquid cryogen dispensing apparatus | |
| CN110913933A (en) | Dispensing system for cryogenic skin treatment | |
| US3229409A (en) | Aerosol fogging device | |
| US5561983A (en) | Cryogenic liquid delivery system | |
| WO2013110283A1 (en) | Method for feeding a cryogenic agent to a cryogenic instrument and cryosurgical apparatus for implementing same | |
| US2984994A (en) | Cooling system | |
| CA1142425A (en) | Cryogenic liquid transfer termination apparatus | |
| US20010023900A1 (en) | Apparatus for metering, mixing, and spraying component liquids | |
| EP0410947B1 (en) | Atomizer which can be refilled and refilling device | |
| EP0564421B1 (en) | Device for refilling compressed air aerosol bombs | |
| KR100757993B1 (en) | Silent sprayer for functional liquid and sterilization method using the same | |
| US3491542A (en) | Cryogenic cooling systems | |
| CA1093332A (en) | Self-pressurizing cryogenic apparatus and method | |
| CA2369928A1 (en) | Pressure activated calibration system for chemical sensors | |
| US4185775A (en) | Portable airless spraying device |