WO2007083165A9 - Refillable compressed gas cartridge - Google Patents

Refillable compressed gas cartridge

Info

Publication number
WO2007083165A9
WO2007083165A9 PCT/GB2007/050030 GB2007050030W WO2007083165A9 WO 2007083165 A9 WO2007083165 A9 WO 2007083165A9 GB 2007050030 W GB2007050030 W GB 2007050030W WO 2007083165 A9 WO2007083165 A9 WO 2007083165A9
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cartridge according
chamber
air
spool
gas
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2007/050030
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2007083165A1 (en
Inventor
Richard Lucien Camilleri
Original Assignee
Tru Air Ltd
Richard Lucien Camilleri
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Tru Air Ltd, Richard Lucien Camilleri filed Critical Tru Air Ltd
Publication of WO2007083165A1 publication Critical patent/WO2007083165A1/en
Publication of WO2007083165A9 publication Critical patent/WO2007083165A9/en

Links

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
    • F17C1/00—Pressure vessels, e.g. gas cylinder, gas tank, replaceable cartridge
    • 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
    • F17C13/00—Details of vessels or of the filling or discharging of vessels
    • 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
    • F17C13/00—Details of vessels or of the filling or discharging of vessels
    • F17C13/04—Arrangement or mounting of valves
    • 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
    • F17C7/00—Methods or apparatus for discharging liquefied, solidified, or compressed gases from pressure vessels, not covered by another subclass
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41B—WEAPONS FOR PROJECTING MISSILES WITHOUT USE OF EXPLOSIVE OR COMBUSTIBLE PROPELLANT CHARGE; WEAPONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F41B11/00—Compressed-gas guns, e.g. air guns; Steam guns
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41B—WEAPONS FOR PROJECTING MISSILES WITHOUT USE OF EXPLOSIVE OR COMBUSTIBLE PROPELLANT CHARGE; WEAPONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F41B7/00—Spring guns
    • F41B7/08—Toy guns, i.e. guns launching objects of the gliding type, e.g. airplanes, parachute missiles
    • 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
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/01—Shape
    • F17C2201/0104—Shape cylindrical
    • 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
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/05—Size
    • F17C2201/056—Small (<1 m3)
    • 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
    • F17C2201/00—Vessel construction, in particular geometry, arrangement or size
    • F17C2201/05—Size
    • F17C2201/058—Size portable (<30 l)
    • 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
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0602—Wall structures; Special features thereof
    • F17C2203/0612—Wall structures
    • F17C2203/0614—Single wall
    • F17C2203/0617—Single wall with one layer
    • 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
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0634—Materials for walls or layers thereof
    • F17C2203/0636—Metals
    • 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
    • F17C2203/00—Vessel construction, in particular walls or details thereof
    • F17C2203/06—Materials for walls or layers thereof; Properties or structures of walls or their materials
    • F17C2203/0634—Materials for walls or layers thereof
    • F17C2203/0636—Metals
    • F17C2203/0639—Steels
    • 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
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0305—Bosses, e.g. boss collars
    • 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
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0323—Valves
    • 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
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0323—Valves
    • F17C2205/0332—Safety valves or pressure relief valves
    • 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
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0323—Valves
    • F17C2205/0335—Check-valves or non-return valves
    • 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
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0302—Fittings, valves, filters, or components in connection with the gas storage device
    • F17C2205/0382—Constructional details of valves, regulators
    • F17C2205/0385—Constructional details of valves, regulators in blocks or units
    • 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
    • F17C2205/00—Vessel construction, in particular mounting arrangements, attachments or identifications means
    • F17C2205/03—Fluid connections, filters, valves, closure means or other attachments
    • F17C2205/0388—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters
    • F17C2205/0394—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters in direct contact with the pressure vessel
    • F17C2205/0397—Arrangement of valves, regulators, filters in direct contact with the pressure vessel on both sides of the pressure vessel
    • 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
    • F17C2209/00—Vessel construction, in particular methods of manufacturing
    • F17C2209/22—Assembling processes
    • F17C2209/221—Welding
    • 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
    • F17C2209/00—Vessel construction, in particular methods of manufacturing
    • F17C2209/23—Manufacturing of particular parts or at special locations
    • F17C2209/234—Manufacturing of particular parts or at special locations of closing end pieces, e.g. caps
    • 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
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/01—Pure fluids
    • F17C2221/012—Hydrogen
    • 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
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/01—Pure fluids
    • F17C2221/014—Nitrogen
    • 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
    • F17C2221/00—Handled fluid, in particular type of fluid
    • F17C2221/03—Mixtures
    • F17C2221/031—Air
    • 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
    • F17C2223/0107—Single phase
    • F17C2223/0123—Single phase gaseous, e.g. CNG, GNC
    • 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
    • F17C2223/03—Handled fluid before transfer, i.e. state of fluid when stored in the vessel or before transfer from the vessel characterised by the pressure level
    • F17C2223/036—Very high pressure (>80 bar)
    • 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
    • F17C2227/00—Transfer of fluids, i.e. method or means for transferring the fluid; Heat exchange with the fluid
    • F17C2227/01—Propulsion of the fluid
    • F17C2227/0128—Propulsion of the fluid with pumps or compressors
    • F17C2227/0135—Pumps
    • 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
    • F17C2227/00—Transfer of fluids, i.e. method or means for transferring the fluid; Heat exchange with the fluid
    • F17C2227/01—Propulsion of the fluid
    • F17C2227/0128—Propulsion of the fluid with pumps or compressors
    • F17C2227/0157—Compressors
    • 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
    • F17C2227/00—Transfer of fluids, i.e. method or means for transferring the fluid; Heat exchange with the fluid
    • F17C2227/01—Propulsion of the fluid
    • F17C2227/0128—Propulsion of the fluid with pumps or compressors
    • F17C2227/0171—Arrangement
    • F17C2227/0185—Arrangement comprising several pumps or compressors
    • 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
    • F17C2250/04—Indicating or measuring of parameters as input values
    • F17C2250/0404—Parameters indicated or measured
    • F17C2250/043—Pressure
    • 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
    • F17C2250/07—Actions triggered by measured parameters
    • F17C2250/072—Action when predefined value is reached
    • 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
    • F17C2260/00—Purposes of gas storage and gas handling
    • F17C2260/04—Reducing risks and environmental impact
    • F17C2260/044—Avoiding pollution or contamination
    • 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
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/01—Applications for fluid transport or storage
    • F17C2270/0165—Applications for fluid transport or storage on the road
    • F17C2270/0168—Applications for fluid transport or storage on the road by vehicles
    • F17C2270/0178—Cars
    • 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
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/02—Applications for medical applications
    • 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
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/05—Applications for industrial use
    • F17C2270/0545—Tools
    • 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
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/05—Applications for industrial use
    • F17C2270/0563—Pneumatic applications
    • 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
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/07—Applications for household use
    • F17C2270/0736—Capsules, e.g. CO2
    • 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
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/07—Applications for household use
    • F17C2270/0754—Fire extinguishers
    • 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
    • F17C2270/00—Applications
    • F17C2270/07—Applications for household use
    • F17C2270/0772—Inflation devices, e.g. for rescue vests or tyres
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/30—Hydrogen technology
    • Y02E60/32—Hydrogen storage

Definitions

  • This invention relates to an energy storage system. More specifically, it relates to an energy storage system that stores energy in compressed air.
  • Jt is known to provide a cartridge in which is contained a quantity of liquid-phase CO 2 as an energy source.
  • a cartridge in which is contained a quantity of liquid-phase CO 2 as an energy source.
  • an end wall is ruptured.
  • the resulting drop in pressure allows some of the CO2 to vaporise and to leave the cartridge in the gas phase.
  • the gas. being under pressure can then be used to perform useful work in some apparatus. After all of the CO 2 has been used, the cartridge is discarded.
  • a common use of these cartridges is in providing propellant gas in an air pistol. However, they can be used as a source of energy in other applications where gas under pressure is a suitable source of energy.
  • CO 2 is particularly advantageous because it can be liquefied at comparatively low pressure at normal room temperature. This allows the cartridge to be made using basic construction techniques, thus keeping its cost low enough to enable it to be sold as a disposable item. That the CO 2 goes though a phase change as it leaves the cartridge is advantageous because, for a given pressure, it allows more energy to be stored in the cartridge than would be the case if it were in its gas phase at all times. Thus, if such cartridges were filled, for example, with nitrogen, the amount of energy stored in it would be considerably less. Moreover, many applications require the pressure of the gas provided Io be as near constant as possible. The phase transition achieved this. Tn contrast, if the content of the cartridge were in gas phase, the pressure would decrease steadily as the quantity of gas in the cartridge decreases.
  • a cartridge to provide a source of energy in the form of compressed gas, that can be used multiple times and that can use a gas that does not cause problems if its concentration increases.
  • a cartridge embodying the invention will be used as a direct replacement for a disposable CO 2 cartridge.
  • this invention provides a refillable cartridge for storage of compressed gas comprising a chamber within which can be stored gas under pressure, a l ⁇ lling valve assembly through which gas can be charged into the chamber and an outlet valve assembly through which gas can be withdrawn from the chamber, the outlet valve assembly being operative to open automatically upon connection to a device intended to receive compressed gas.
  • Compressed gas stored within such a cartridge can be used as an energy source for a wide variety of purposes.
  • a cartridge can be configured to provide a direct replacement for a disposable cartridge, with automatic opening of the valve assembly simulating rupture of the disposable cartridge.
  • the filling valve assembly typically includes a one-way valve through which gas can pass into but not out of the chamber.
  • the one-way valve comprises a resilient scaling clement that covers an inlet duct, disposed such that pressure of gas within the chamber urges the sealing element into contact with material surrounding the inlet duct.
  • the resilient sealing element may comprise a band of elastomeric material that surrounds a body from which the inlet duct exits.
  • the outlet valve assembly may include a pressure threshold valve operative to allow gas to pass from the chamber only when the pressure of the gas exceeds a threshold.
  • the threshold valve may include a scaling element urged by a spring to close an outlet orifice, whereby pressure of gas within the chamber opposes the spring force.
  • the spring may include a body of elastomeric material.
  • the outlet valve assembly most typically includes an outlet valve that can be opened to permit discharge of gas from the device.
  • the outlet valve may be a spool valve.
  • a spring may be provided to urge the spool towards a closed position.
  • the spool Upon connection to apparatus to which gas is to be delivered, the spool is typically displaced against the spring pressure to an open position. It is preferable that the spool be arranged such that the compressed air exerts a minimum of net force on it. For example, this may be achieved by ensuring that the compressed air applies substantially equal force on opposite directions to the spool. This ensures that the force required to open the spool is controlled primarily by its spring and it is substantially independent of the pressure of air within the chamber.
  • the spool typically has a plurality of peripheral sealing elements, such as O-rings, that form a seal between the spool and a surrounding bore.
  • An air delivery duct may be provided in the spool to provide an air channel from an axial position between two adjacent sealing elements and an outlet duct of the device.
  • one of the two adjacent scaling elements may be at least partially contained within a chamber formed in the bore.
  • the chamber may be filled with compressed air.
  • the device is capable of storing compressed air at a pressure in excess of 25 MPa.
  • Embodiments of the invention have an outlet valve assembly suitable for operative connection to an air gun.
  • Alternative embodiments may have an outlet valve assembly that is suitable for operative connection to other types of apparatus that use compressed gas as a source of energy.
  • this invention provides an energy supply system comprising a cartridge according to the first aspect of the invention and charging apparatus suitable for charging the cartridge with compressed gas.
  • a system will include several cartridges for each charging apparatus.
  • the charging apparatus may include one or more of a pump, a compressor or a reservoir of compressed air.
  • Figure 1 is a part cut-away view of a first embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 2 is an exploded diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 prior to its being filled with air;
  • FIG 4 is a detailed view of a valve spool being a component of the embodiment of Figure 1
  • Figures 5a and 5b are, respectively, a side view and a cross-section of a spring housing being a component of the embodiment of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 6 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 that has been filled with air;
  • Figure 7 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 that is discharging air
  • Figure 8 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 that has cut off due to a threshold pressure having been reached in apparatus to which air has been discharged;
  • Figure 9 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 that has cut off due to reduction in the pressure of air stored within it;
  • Figure 10 is a cross-sectiona ⁇ diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of air through its valve assemblies
  • Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional diagram of a second embodiment of the invention.
  • Figures 12 to 15 are. respectively, side, sectional, exploded and exploded sectional views of a valve spool, being a component of the embodiment of Figure 11;
  • Figures 16 to 20 show the embodiment of Figure 1 1 in different phases of its use;
  • Figure 21 is an enlarged, detailed view of the valve mass while pressure within the second embodiment is below an operating threshold;
  • Figure 22 is an enlarged, detailed view of the valve mass while pressure within the second embodiment is within an operating range
  • Figure 23 is an enlarged, detailed view of the valve mass while pressure within the second embodiment is in excess of an operating threshold.
  • the first embodiment provides a refillable energy storage cartridge that is a direct replacement for the existing disposable type of liquid-phase CO2 cartridge supplied for use in air pistols.
  • the aim is to store sufficient energy to provide a typical air pistol with 30 shots between 1111s.
  • the cartridge is generally symmetrical about an axis A other than where specifically noted in the description.
  • the cartridge comprises a steel body component 10 that is generally cylindrical. At one end of the body component 10 is a filling valve assembly 12, secured in place by welding or by a screw thread. At the opposite end, an outlet valve assembly H is screwed or welded to the body component 10. closing the end of the body portion and forming an enclosed chamber.
  • the chamber can contain a volume of gas under pressure, being charged through the filling valve assembly 12 and discharged through the outlet valve assembly 14.
  • the working pressure of the gas within the chamber is 250 bar (25 MPa), and the body portion and valve assembly 14 are constructed so as to withstand such pressure.
  • An air pistol requires a supply of gas at approximately 60 bar (6 MPa) and other applications will require different pressures. In this case, the gas used is air.
  • valve assemblies There are several principal requirements of the valve assemblies. These are:
  • the chamber can be filled with air through the filling valve assembly 12;
  • the outlet valve assembly 14 can connect with the same parts of an air pistol as can the outlet of a disposable CO 2 cartridge;
  • the filling valve assembly 12 will now be described in detail.
  • the filling valve assembly 12 comprises a valve body 16 machined from a block of metal.
  • the valve body contains an inlet port 18 that can connect with an outlet coupling 20 of a filling pump or other source of compressed air.
  • the outlet coupling is a screw fit onto the filling valve assembly 12, the coupling having an O-ring to form an airtight face seal.
  • the inlet port 18 communicates with an axial inlet duct 22 which, in turn, communicates with a radial duct 22.
  • the radial duct 22 opens through an outside wall of the valve body 16 within the chamber.
  • a band 26 of elastomeric material tightly surrounds the valve body 16 such that the band closes the outlet of the radial duct 24.
  • the valve body 16 Remote from the iniet port, the valve body 16 has a region of increased diameter 28 that forms an abutment to prevent the band 26 moving axially from the valve body 16. Inwardly, the region of increased diameter 28 is tapered to facilitate fitting of the band 26.
  • the band 26 acts as a one-way valve to the passage of air out of the radial duct into the chamber.
  • a pump causes the pressure of air within the radial duct 24 to exceed the pressure within the chamber, the band 26 is lifted away from the radial duct 24.
  • the band 26 is forced into contact with the opening of the duct, so preventing the flow of air through it.
  • the How of air through the filling valve assembly 12 is illustrated in Figure 10.
  • the outlet valve assembly 14 comprises a valve body 30 machined from a block of metal.
  • An inner part of the valve body 30 is located within the chamber such that the outer wall of the valve body 30 is screwed into a threaded end part of the steel body component 10.
  • an O-ring 32 being provided to form an airtight seal between them.
  • the valve body 30 has an axial though bore that has four axially spaced regions of four different diameters. These will be referred to as the first, second, third and fourth regions of the bore, disposed in that order, of increasing distance from the filling valve assembly 12, and decreasing diameter in that order.
  • the interface between the second and third regions of the bore is radiuscd. while the interferences between the other regions are step changes.
  • valve spool 40 Within the valve body 30 there is a valve spool 40. This is shown in detail in Figure 4.
  • the valve spool 40 is machined from a cylinder of brass.
  • the valve spool 40 has an inlet end and an outlet end shown, respectively, to the left and to the right in Figure 4.
  • An axial bore 42 is formed within the valve spool 40, with a radiused opening 44 at the outlet end.
  • ⁇ n axial couiiterbore 46 is formed in the inlet end.
  • first to fourth grooves 48 are formed in the cylindrical outer surface of the valve spool. From the outlet end, these will be referred to as the first to fourth groove.
  • the first to fourth grooves 48 contain a respective first to fourth O-ring 50.
  • the first, second and third ⁇ -rings 50 form a seal with the third region of the bore of the body 30, while allowing the spool 40 to slide axially within the bore.
  • a radial bore 52 extends from the cylindrical outer surface of the spool 40 to intersect with the axial bore 42.
  • the radial bore 52 emerges between the second and third grooves 50.
  • a spring housing 60 is also located within the valve body 30.
  • the spring housing 60 is machined from a piece of brass. It includes an axial tubular section 62 and a disc-shaped head 64 that closes one end of the tubular section 62. At its opposite end, a region of the tubular section has a radiused outward dare at 66.
  • the tubular section 62 has an outer diameter that is a very close (It within the second region of the bore of the body 30. its inner diameter is very closely similar to the diameter of the third region of the bore of the body 30.
  • the outer diameter of the head 64 is a very close fit within the first region of the bore of the body 30.
  • An off-centre bore 70 with a How restricting section is formed through the head 64 parallel to the axis A and a slot 72 is formed to extend transversely across the head.
  • the spring housing 60 is disposed within the body 30 such that the head 64 is coplanar with the innermost end surface of the body 30, with the tubular section 62 extending through the first and second regions of the bore of the body 30 to make contact with the interface between the second and third regions of the bore of the body 30.
  • the radiused flare of the tubular section 62 is therefore adjacent to the radiused step of the interface between the second and third regions of the bore.
  • a portion of the spool 40 extends into the tubular section, with the fourth O-ring 50 forming a sliding seal within it.
  • a first annular compression spring 76 is located within the annular space that surrounds the tubular section 62 within the first region of the bore.
  • An elastomeric washer 78 surrounds the tubular section 62 and is urged against the head 64 by the first spring 76 acting through an annular washer 80. The elastomeric washer 78 closes the How-restricting section of the bore
  • a second compression spring 82 is trapped in compression within the tubular section 62 between the spool 40 (where it is contained in the counterbore 46) and the head 64.
  • An annular space surrounds the second spring 82.
  • the first and second springs are clastomeric polymer bodies, having a Shore hardness in the region of 90-1 10.
  • the device When initially manufactured, the device is in a condition as shown in Figure 3.
  • the spool 40 is urged by the second spring 81 is at its extreme of travel in the outlet direction.
  • the radial duct 24 and the bore 70 are both closed.
  • the filling valve assembly 12 is connected to a source of compressed air.
  • the flow path of this air into the chamber can be seen in Figure 10. Note that the air in the chamber can enter the bore 70 to press against the elastomeric washer 78.
  • the pressure within the chamber exceeds a threshold, its pressure will overcome the force of the first spring 76, allowing air to enter the annular space surrounding the tubular section 62. From there, the air passes within the body 30 to enter the small annular chamber 68 that surrounds the spool 40. In this condition, the air can go no further because it is trapped between the third and the fourth O-rings 50.
  • the inlet valve assembly is closed by the air within the chamber and the spool 40 is driven against the force of the second spring 82 to the position shown in Figure 7.
  • the third O-ring 50 has entered the small annular chamber 68, so air can pass from the chamber axial Iy as far as the second O-ring 50. From there, it can enter the radial bore 52, and then into the axial bore 42, through which it can leave the device.
  • the flow path of air through the outlet valve assembly can be seen in Figure 10. As the pressure in the axial bore increases, the spool 40 is urged towards the second spring 82 causing the spring to compress.
  • the radiused shapes of the walls that define the small annular chamber 68 ensure that the O- rings 50 can easily pass into and out if the chamber.
  • the air from the chamber is delivered to an axial position of the spool that is between two sealed O-rings. This means that the pneumatic forces acting on the spool 40 are balanced, so the force needed to move the spool 40 is determined almost entirely by the second spring 82.
  • Figure 10 is for illustrative purposes only. The condition of the device shown in Figure 10, with air flowing through both valve assemblies, should never occur in use.
  • the second embodiment provides a refi liable energy storage cartridge that is a direct replacement for the existing disposable type of liquid-phase CO 2 cartridge supplied for use in air pistols.
  • the cartridge is generally symmetrical about an axis A other than where specifically noted in the description.
  • the cartridge comprises a steel body component 1 10 that is generally cylindrical. At one end of the body component 1 10 is a filling valve assembly 1 12, secured in place by welding or by a screw thread. At the opposite end, an outlet valve assembly 114 is screwed or welded to the body component 1 10, closing the end of the body portion and forming an enclosed chamber.
  • the body component 1 10 and the filling valve assembly 1 12 arc substantially the same as the corresponding components of the first embodiment, and will not. therefore, be described further.
  • the outlet valve assembly 1 14 comprises a valve body 130 machined from a block of metal.
  • An inner part of the valve body 130 is located within the chamber such that the outer wall of the valve body 130 is screwed into a threaded end part of the steel body component 1 10, an O-ring 132 being provided to form an airtight seal between them.
  • the valve body 130 has an axial though bore that has four axially spaced regions of four different diameters. These will be referred to as the first second, third and fourth regions of the bore, disposed in that order, of increasing distance from the filling valve assembly 1 12, and decreasing diameter in that order.
  • the interface between the second and third regions of the bore is tapered, while the interferences between the other regions are step changes.
  • the first region opens to the chamber with a tapered region.
  • valve spool 134 is located within the bore of the body 130; it is shown in detail in Figures 12 to 15.
  • the valve spool 134 comprises a machined metal body of circular cross-section.
  • the valve spool 134 has three outer regions that will be referred to as the first, second and third region (136, 138, 140). disposed (in use) in that order, of increasing distance from the filling valve assembly 1 12.
  • the first region 136 has an outer diameter that tapers towards the second region 138.
  • the second region 138 is cylindrical and has an outer diameter that is less than the adjacent part of the first region 136.
  • the third region 140 is cylindrical arid has an outer diameter that is less than the second region 138.
  • the second and third regions 138, 140 meet one another at a step change in diameter.
  • first groove 142 formed radially into the body 130.
  • a radial groove 144 is formed in the second region 138.
  • An inner seal 146 is located within the first groove 142 and an outer seal 148 is located in the second groove 150.
  • the spool 134 has inner and outer axial bores 152, 154.
  • the inner bore 1 52 is cylindrical and extends radially inwardly of the first region 136 to approximately the mid-point of the second region 138.
  • the outer bore 154 extends radially inwardly of the third region 140 to approach, but not to meet, the inner bore 152.
  • the outer bore 154 has two contiguous tapered regions. A first of these opens at the axial end face of the spool 134 and tapers towards the second tapered region. The second tapered region tapers towards the inner bore 152. The tapered regions meet at a step change in the diameter of the bore 154. Inwardly of the tapered regions, there is a cylindrical region. A radial drilling 156 connects the cylindrical region to the outer wall of the spool 134.
  • An outlet seal 158 is located within the outer bore 154.
  • the outlet seal 158 extends to stop short of the cylindrical region, thereby creating a chamber within the outer bore 154.. External formations of the outlet seal engage with the tapered regions of the outer bore 154. the tapers and step change forming a barb that allows the seal to be inserted into the bore 154 but not removed.
  • the outlet seal has a central through bore 160 that extends from an axial end face into the chamber. A convex annular portion of the outlet seal 158 projects from the bore 154 to form a sealing surface against which an externa! component can form an air-tight seal.
  • the valve spool 134 can slide within the valve body 130.
  • the third region 140 of the spool 134 can extend through the fourth region of the bore of the body such that a portion of it can project from the valve body.
  • the second region 138 of the spool 134 has a diameter that is too great to pass into the fourth region of the bore thereby preventing further movement of the spool 134 in a direction away from the inlet valve assembly 112.
  • a small annular gap is present between the second region 138 of the spool 134 and the third region of the bore of the valve body 130.
  • the outer seal 148 forms a gas-tight seal against the third region of the bore of the valve body 130,
  • the inner seal 146 can form an airtight seal with the bore of the valve body 130 at the tapered region between the second and third regions of the bore when the spool 134 is at the limit of its movement away from the inlet valve assembly 1 12.
  • the outlet valve assembly 1 14 further includes a regulator.
  • the regulator comprises a valve mass 162 of resiliency deformable material.
  • the valve mass 162 is generally annular with a closed circular end face and is a close lit within the second region of the bore of the valve body 130.
  • a the end face forms a surface of the valve mass at 180 that faces towards the inlet valve assembly 1 12 is flat, and the opposite surface is convex. This forms a scaling pad that can close the bore of the ⁇ alve body 130.
  • Bores 182 (Shown in Figure 21 ) extend through the end face.
  • An axiallv central zone of the convex face is in contact with a support 164.
  • a helical compression spring 166 is located within the inner bore 152 of the spool 134 and extends to contact the support 164.
  • a void surrounds the support 164 and the part of the spring 166 that projects from the spool 134.
  • An annular base 1 68 which is a close fit within the second region of the bore of the valve body 130 of rigid material, is in contact with the valve mass 162.
  • the base 168 has a flange 170 that is a close fit within the first region of the bore of the valve body 130.
  • An O-ring 172 forms an airtight seal between the ilangc 170 and a step between the first and second regions of the bore of the valve body 130.
  • the flange is 170 is located against the O-ring 172 by a circlip 174 located in a groove in the bore of the valve body 130.
  • the bore of the valve body 130 has a tapered opening to facilitate insertion of the circlip 174.
  • ⁇ valve insert 176 passes through the base 168 and the valve mass 162 to the support 164.
  • the insert 176 has an axial through bore with a section of reduced diameter to form a flow restriction.
  • the chamber 1 10 contains air at substantially ambient pressure (Fig 16).
  • the spool 134 of the outlet valve assembly is urged by the spring away from the inlet valve assembly 1 12 such that the inner seal 146 forms a seal with the valve body 130 and the end of the bore of the insert 176 is sealed against the sealing pad, as shown in Figure 21.
  • Air is then introduced into the chamber through the inlet valve assembly 122. While the air is at a pressure below the minimum cut-off pressure, Jt can enter the through bore of the insert 176, as shown in Figure 17.
  • the pressure within the chamber 110 rises to exceed the minimum cut-off pressure, as shown in Figure 18.
  • the valve mass 162 is compressed by the air such that the end of the bore of the insert 176 is clear of the sealing pad. Air can now pass from the bore into the surrounding void. However, the air cannot pass the inner seal 146 of the spool 130.
  • the spool Upon connection of the energy storage device to a device to be powered, the spool is displaced towards the inlet valve assembly 1 12 against the force of the spring 166, as shown in Figure 19, This lifts the inner seal 146 from its seat, thereby allowing air to pass into the annular space between the spool 130 and the bore.
  • the air cannot pass the outer seal 150, so instead passes into the radial drilling 156. From there, it can iea ⁇ 'e the device through the central bore 160 of the outlet sea! 158. This configuration is shown in Figure 22.
  • valve mass 162 is distorted by the compressive force of the air, as shown in Figures 20 and 23, The effect of this is that the sealing pad is forced against the bore of the valve body 130 so closing it and preventing further air flow.
  • embodiments described relate to a source of energy for use in an air pistol
  • embodiments of the invention have many different potential applications where a rechargeable source of pneumatic energy is required.
  • embodiments can be used with gasscs other than air. including inert gasses such as nitrogen, fuel gasses such as hydrogen, and so forth.
  • inert gasses such as nitrogen
  • fuel gasses such as hydrogen
  • applications may include, but are not limited to:
  • each embodiment will be selected as appropriate to the application, as will the gas that is stored within the cartridge for use.
  • the body component can simply be scaled to provide the storage volume required for a particular embodiment.
  • Th e rates of the springs of the outlet valve assembly are selected to provide minimum and maximum pressure thresholds lor each application. The selection of such spring rates can readily be achieved by routine experimentation once the pressure and volume specifications of the gas to be delivered are known.

Abstract

A refillable cartridge for storage of compressed gas comprising a chamber to provide a source of energy is disclosed, within which can be stored gas under pressure and a valve assembly through which gas can be charged into the chamber and withdrawn from the chamber. The valve assembly is operative to open automatically upon connection to apparatus for charging and for discharging. A pressure limiting stage is provided that maintains the pressure of gas discharged from the cartridge between maximum and minimum thresholds. A preferred embodiment provides a direct replacement for a disposable CO2 cartridge. The invention may also provide a kit comprising a charging apparatus and several cartridges.

Description

REFILLABLE COMPRESSED GAS CARRIDGE
This invention relates to an energy storage system. More specifically, it relates to an energy storage system that stores energy in compressed air.
Jt is known to provide a cartridge in which is contained a quantity of liquid-phase CO2 as an energy source. When such cartridges are brought into use. an end wall is ruptured. The resulting drop in pressure allows some of the CO2 to vaporise and to leave the cartridge in the gas phase. The gas. being under pressure, can then be used to perform useful work in some apparatus. After all of the CO2 has been used, the cartridge is discarded. A common use of these cartridges is in providing propellant gas in an air pistol. However, they can be used as a source of energy in other applications where gas under pressure is a suitable source of energy.
In this application, CO2 is particularly advantageous because it can be liquefied at comparatively low pressure at normal room temperature. This allows the cartridge to be made using basic construction techniques, thus keeping its cost low enough to enable it to be sold as a disposable item. That the CO2 goes though a phase change as it leaves the cartridge is advantageous because, for a given pressure, it allows more energy to be stored in the cartridge than would be the case if it were in its gas phase at all times. Thus, if such cartridges were filled, for example, with nitrogen, the amount of energy stored in it would be considerably less. Moreover, many applications require the pressure of the gas provided Io be as near constant as possible. The phase transition achieved this. Tn contrast, if the content of the cartridge were in gas phase, the pressure would decrease steadily as the quantity of gas in the cartridge decreases.
These cartridges are not without their disadvantages. Although they can be obtained at low cost, the cost is not negligible. For instance, a keen sports air pistol shooter may use several such cartridges in a session, so the cost is multiplied many times. Moreover, if many of these cartridges are in simultaneous use in an enclosed space, such as in a shooting gallery or closed equipment room, the amount of released CCh can be so large as to rise to an unacceptable concentration in the atmosphere within the space.
Therefore, there is a clear demand for a cartridge to provide a source of energy in the form of compressed gas, that can be used multiple times and that can use a gas that does not cause problems if its concentration increases. In many applications, a cartridge embodying the invention will be used as a direct replacement for a disposable CO2 cartridge.
To this end. from a first aspect this invention provides a refillable cartridge for storage of compressed gas comprising a chamber within which can be stored gas under pressure, a lϊlling valve assembly through which gas can be charged into the chamber and an outlet valve assembly through which gas can be withdrawn from the chamber, the outlet valve assembly being operative to open automatically upon connection to a device intended to receive compressed gas.
Compressed gas stored within such a cartridge can be used as an energy source for a wide variety of purposes. For example, such a cartridge can be configured to provide a direct replacement for a disposable cartridge, with automatic opening of the valve assembly simulating rupture of the disposable cartridge.
The filling valve assembly typically includes a one-way valve through which gas can pass into but not out of the chamber. In a preferred embodiment, the one-way valve comprises a resilient scaling clement that covers an inlet duct, disposed such that pressure of gas within the chamber urges the sealing element into contact with material surrounding the inlet duct. The resilient sealing element may comprise a band of elastomeric material that surrounds a body from which the inlet duct exits.
In many cases, it is preferable that the device does not attempt to deliver compressed gas below a threshold pressure. To this end, the outlet valve assembly may include a pressure threshold valve operative to allow gas to pass from the chamber only when the pressure of the gas exceeds a threshold. The threshold valve may include a scaling element urged by a spring to close an outlet orifice, whereby pressure of gas within the chamber opposes the spring force. Preferably, the spring may include a body of elastomeric material. The outlet valve assembly most typically includes an outlet valve that can be opened to permit discharge of gas from the device. The outlet valve may be a spool valve. A spring may be provided to urge the spool towards a closed position. Upon connection to apparatus to which gas is to be delivered, the spool is typically displaced against the spring pressure to an open position. It is preferable that the spool be arranged such that the compressed air exerts a minimum of net force on it. For example, this may be achieved by ensuring that the compressed air applies substantially equal force on opposite directions to the spool. This ensures that the force required to open the spool is controlled primarily by its spring and it is substantially independent of the pressure of air within the chamber.
The spool typically has a plurality of peripheral sealing elements, such as O-rings, that form a seal between the spool and a surrounding bore. An air delivery duct may be provided in the spool to provide an air channel from an axial position between two adjacent sealing elements and an outlet duct of the device. When the valve is in an open condition, one of the two adjacent scaling elements may be at least partially contained within a chamber formed in the bore.
In a refillable cartridge embodying the invention, the chamber may be filled with compressed air. Preferably, the device is capable of storing compressed air at a pressure in excess of 25 MPa.
Embodiments of the invention have an outlet valve assembly suitable for operative connection to an air gun. Alternative embodiments may have an outlet valve assembly that is suitable for operative connection to other types of apparatus that use compressed gas as a source of energy.
From a second aspect, this invention provides an energy supply system comprising a cartridge according to the first aspect of the invention and charging apparatus suitable for charging the cartridge with compressed gas. Typically, such a system will include several cartridges for each charging apparatus. The charging apparatus may include one or more of a pump, a compressor or a reservoir of compressed air.
Embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail, by way of example, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: A-
Figure 1 is a part cut-away view of a first embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 is an exploded diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 prior to its being filled with air;
Figure 4 is a detailed view of a valve spool being a component of the embodiment of Figure 1
Figures 5a and 5b are, respectively, a side view and a cross-section of a spring housing being a component of the embodiment of Figure 1 ;
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 that has been filled with air;
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 that is discharging air;
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 that has cut off due to a threshold pressure having been reached in apparatus to which air has been discharged;
Figure 9 is a cross-sectional diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 that has cut off due to reduction in the pressure of air stored within it;
Figure 10 is a cross-sectionaϊ diagram of the embodiment of Figure 1 illustrating the flow of air through its valve assemblies;
Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional diagram of a second embodiment of the invention;
Figures 12 to 15 are. respectively, side, sectional, exploded and exploded sectional views of a valve spool, being a component of the embodiment of Figure 11;
Figures 16 to 20 show the embodiment of Figure 1 1 in different phases of its use; Figure 21 is an enlarged, detailed view of the valve mass while pressure within the second embodiment is below an operating threshold;
Figure 22 is an enlarged, detailed view of the valve mass while pressure within the second embodiment is within an operating range, and
Figure 23 is an enlarged, detailed view of the valve mass while pressure within the second embodiment is in excess of an operating threshold.
The first embodiment provides a refillable energy storage cartridge that is a direct replacement for the existing disposable type of liquid-phase CO2 cartridge supplied for use in air pistols. The aim is to store sufficient energy to provide a typical air pistol with 30 shots between 1111s. The cartridge is generally symmetrical about an axis A other than where specifically noted in the description.
The cartridge comprises a steel body component 10 that is generally cylindrical. At one end of the body component 10 is a filling valve assembly 12, secured in place by welding or by a screw thread. At the opposite end, an outlet valve assembly H is screwed or welded to the body component 10. closing the end of the body portion and forming an enclosed chamber.
The chamber can contain a volume of gas under pressure, being charged through the filling valve assembly 12 and discharged through the outlet valve assembly 14. In this embodiment, the working pressure of the gas within the chamber is 250 bar (25 MPa), and the body portion and valve assembly 14 are constructed so as to withstand such pressure. An air pistol requires a supply of gas at approximately 60 bar (6 MPa) and other applications will require different pressures. In this case, the gas used is air.
There are several principal requirements of the valve assemblies. These are:
• the chamber can be filled with air through the filling valve assembly 12;
• the outlet valve assembly 14 can connect with the same parts of an air pistol as can the outlet of a disposable CO2 cartridge; and
• the pressure of the gas emerging from the outlet valve assembly 14 should be as near constant as possible.
The filling valve assembly 12 will now be described in detail.
The filling valve assembly 12 comprises a valve body 16 machined from a block of metal. The valve body contains an inlet port 18 that can connect with an outlet coupling 20 of a filling pump or other source of compressed air. In this embodiment, the outlet coupling is a screw fit onto the filling valve assembly 12, the coupling having an O-ring to form an airtight face seal. The inlet port 18 communicates with an axial inlet duct 22 which, in turn, communicates with a radial duct 22. The radial duct 22 opens through an outside wall of the valve body 16 within the chamber. A band 26 of elastomeric material tightly surrounds the valve body 16 such that the band closes the outlet of the radial duct 24. Remote from the iniet port, the valve body 16 has a region of increased diameter 28 that forms an abutment to prevent the band 26 moving axially from the valve body 16. Inwardly, the region of increased diameter 28 is tapered to facilitate fitting of the band 26.
The band 26 acts as a one-way valve to the passage of air out of the radial duct into the chamber. When a pump causes the pressure of air within the radial duct 24 to exceed the pressure within the chamber, the band 26 is lifted away from the radial duct 24. When the pressure in the radial duct 24 is less than that within the chamber, the band 26 is forced into contact with the opening of the duct, so preventing the flow of air through it. The How of air through the filling valve assembly 12 is illustrated in Figure 10.
The outlet valve assembly 14 will now be described.
The outlet valve assembly 14 comprises a valve body 30 machined from a block of metal. An inner part of the valve body 30 is located within the chamber such that the outer wall of the valve body 30 is screwed into a threaded end part of the steel body component 10. an O-ring 32 being provided to form an airtight seal between them. The valve body 30 has an axial though bore that has four axially spaced regions of four different diameters. These will be referred to as the first, second, third and fourth regions of the bore, disposed in that order, of increasing distance from the filling valve assembly 12, and decreasing diameter in that order. The interface between the second and third regions of the bore is radiuscd. while the interferences between the other regions are step changes.
Within the valve body 30 there is a valve spool 40. This is shown in detail in Figure 4. The valve spool 40 is machined from a cylinder of brass. The valve spool 40 has an inlet end and an outlet end shown, respectively, to the left and to the right in Figure 4. An axial bore 42 is formed within the valve spool 40, with a radiused opening 44 at the outlet end. Λn axial couiiterbore 46 is formed in the inlet end.
Four circumferential grooves 48 are formed in the cylindrical outer surface of the valve spool. From the outlet end, these will be referred to as the first to fourth groove. The first to fourth grooves 48 contain a respective first to fourth O-ring 50. The first, second and third ϋ-rings 50 form a seal with the third region of the bore of the body 30, while allowing the spool 40 to slide axially within the bore.
There is a region of reduced external diameter 54 of the spool 40 close to its outlet end. This region can pass through the fourth region of the bore of the body 30. However, the remaining part of the spool 40 has a diameter greater than the diameter of the fourth region of the bore of the body 30. This has the effect of preventing movement of the spool 40 from the body in the outlet direction.
A radial bore 52 extends from the cylindrical outer surface of the spool 40 to intersect with the axial bore 42. The radial bore 52 emerges between the second and third grooves 50.
A spring housing 60 is also located within the valve body 30. The spring housing 60 is machined from a piece of brass. It includes an axial tubular section 62 and a disc-shaped head 64 that closes one end of the tubular section 62. At its opposite end, a region of the tubular section has a radiused outward dare at 66. The tubular section 62 has an outer diameter that is a very close (It within the second region of the bore of the body 30. its inner diameter is very closely similar to the diameter of the third region of the bore of the body 30. The outer diameter of the head 64 is a very close fit within the first region of the bore of the body 30. An off-centre bore 70 with a How restricting section is formed through the head 64 parallel to the axis A and a slot 72 is formed to extend transversely across the head.
The spring housing 60 is disposed within the body 30 such that the head 64 is coplanar with the innermost end surface of the body 30, with the tubular section 62 extending through the first and second regions of the bore of the body 30 to make contact with the interface between the second and third regions of the bore of the body 30. Within the first region of the bore, there is an annular space surrounding the tubular section 62. The radiused flare of the tubular section 62 is therefore adjacent to the radiused step of the interface between the second and third regions of the bore. This forms a small annular chamber 68 surrounding the spool 40. Thus, a portion of the spool 40 extends into the tubular section, with the fourth O-ring 50 forming a sliding seal within it.
A first annular compression spring 76 is located within the annular space that surrounds the tubular section 62 within the first region of the bore. An elastomeric washer 78 surrounds the tubular section 62 and is urged against the head 64 by the first spring 76 acting through an annular washer 80. The elastomeric washer 78 closes the How-restricting section of the bore
70. A second compression spring 82 is trapped in compression within the tubular section 62 between the spool 40 (where it is contained in the counterbore 46) and the head 64. An annular space surrounds the second spring 82. In this embodiment, the first and second springs are clastomeric polymer bodies, having a Shore hardness in the region of 90-1 10.
Operation of the device will now be described.
When initially manufactured, the device is in a condition as shown in Figure 3. The spool 40 is urged by the second spring 81 is at its extreme of travel in the outlet direction. The radial duct 24 and the bore 70 are both closed. Now, assume that the filling valve assembly 12 is connected to a source of compressed air. The flow path of this air into the chamber can be seen in Figure 10. Note that the air in the chamber can enter the bore 70 to press against the elastomeric washer 78.
Once the pressure within the chamber exceeds a threshold, its pressure will overcome the force of the first spring 76, allowing air to enter the annular space surrounding the tubular section 62. From there, the air passes within the body 30 to enter the small annular chamber 68 that surrounds the spool 40. In this condition, the air can go no further because it is trapped between the third and the fourth O-rings 50.
If the filling valve assembly is disconnected from the source of compressed air and the outlet valve assembly is connected to an air rifle, the inlet valve assembly is closed by the air within the chamber and the spool 40 is driven against the force of the second spring 82 to the position shown in Figure 7. The third O-ring 50 has entered the small annular chamber 68, so air can pass from the chamber axial Iy as far as the second O-ring 50. From there, it can enter the radial bore 52, and then into the axial bore 42, through which it can leave the device. The flow path of air through the outlet valve assembly can be seen in Figure 10. As the pressure in the axial bore increases, the spool 40 is urged towards the second spring 82 causing the spring to compress. When the pressure is sufficient to compress the spring to such an extent that the second O-ring passes through the small annular chamber 68 to enter the bore of the tubular section 62 of the spring housing 60, as shown in Figure 8, the radial bore 52 is isolated from the small annular chamber 68, so preventing further air from being delήcred.
The radiused shapes of the walls that define the small annular chamber 68 ensure that the O- rings 50 can easily pass into and out if the chamber.
It should be noted that at all times, the air from the chamber is delivered to an axial position of the spool that is between two sealed O-rings. This means that the pneumatic forces acting on the spool 40 are balanced, so the force needed to move the spool 40 is determined almost entirely by the second spring 82.
As air is drawn from the device, the pressure within the chamber will fall. Eventually, it will no longer be able to overcome the force of the first spring 76, and the bore 70 will be closed. This prevents further air from leaving the chamber until the device is re-charged. This condition is shown in Figure 9.
Note that Figure 10 is for illustrative purposes only. The condition of the device shown in Figure 10, with air flowing through both valve assemblies, should never occur in use.
A second embodiment of the invention will now be described.
As with the first embodiment, the second embodiment provides a refi liable energy storage cartridge that is a direct replacement for the existing disposable type of liquid-phase CO2 cartridge supplied for use in air pistols. The cartridge is generally symmetrical about an axis A other than where specifically noted in the description.
The cartridge comprises a steel body component 1 10 that is generally cylindrical. At one end of the body component 1 10 is a filling valve assembly 1 12, secured in place by welding or by a screw thread. At the opposite end, an outlet valve assembly 114 is screwed or welded to the body component 1 10, closing the end of the body portion and forming an enclosed chamber. The body component 1 10 and the filling valve assembly 1 12 arc substantially the same as the corresponding components of the first embodiment, and will not. therefore, be described further.
The outlet valve assembly 1 14 will now be described.
The outlet valve assembly 1 14 comprises a valve body 130 machined from a block of metal. An inner part of the valve body 130 is located within the chamber such that the outer wall of the valve body 130 is screwed into a threaded end part of the steel body component 1 10, an O-ring 132 being provided to form an airtight seal between them. The valve body 130 has an axial though bore that has four axially spaced regions of four different diameters. These will be referred to as the first second, third and fourth regions of the bore, disposed in that order, of increasing distance from the filling valve assembly 1 12, and decreasing diameter in that order. The interface between the second and third regions of the bore is tapered, while the interferences between the other regions are step changes. The first region opens to the chamber with a tapered region.
Λ valve spool 134 is located within the bore of the body 130; it is shown in detail in Figures 12 to 15. The valve spool 134 comprises a machined metal body of circular cross-section. The valve spool 134 has three outer regions that will be referred to as the first, second and third region (136, 138, 140). disposed (in use) in that order, of increasing distance from the filling valve assembly 1 12. The first region 136 has an outer diameter that tapers towards the second region 138. The second region 138 is cylindrical and has an outer diameter that is less than the adjacent part of the first region 136. The third region 140 is cylindrical arid has an outer diameter that is less than the second region 138. The second and third regions 138, 140 meet one another at a step change in diameter.
Between the first and second regions 136, 138 there is a first groove 142 formed radially into the body 130. A radial groove 144 is formed in the second region 138. An inner seal 146 is located within the first groove 142 and an outer seal 148 is located in the second groove 150.
The spool 134 has inner and outer axial bores 152, 154. The inner bore 1 52 is cylindrical and extends radially inwardly of the first region 136 to approximately the mid-point of the second region 138. The outer bore 154 extends radially inwardly of the third region 140 to approach, but not to meet, the inner bore 152.
The outer bore 154 has two contiguous tapered regions. A first of these opens at the axial end face of the spool 134 and tapers towards the second tapered region. The second tapered region tapers towards the inner bore 152. The tapered regions meet at a step change in the diameter of the bore 154. Inwardly of the tapered regions, there is a cylindrical region. A radial drilling 156 connects the cylindrical region to the outer wall of the spool 134.
An outlet seal 158 is located within the outer bore 154. The outlet seal 158 extends to stop short of the cylindrical region, thereby creating a chamber within the outer bore 154.. External formations of the outlet seal engage with the tapered regions of the outer bore 154. the tapers and step change forming a barb that allows the seal to be inserted into the bore 154 but not removed. The outlet seal has a central through bore 160 that extends from an axial end face into the chamber. A convex annular portion of the outlet seal 158 projects from the bore 154 to form a sealing surface against which an externa! component can form an air-tight seal.
The valve spool 134 can slide within the valve body 130. The third region 140 of the spool 134 can extend through the fourth region of the bore of the body such that a portion of it can project from the valve body. However, the second region 138 of the spool 134 has a diameter that is too great to pass into the fourth region of the bore thereby preventing further movement of the spool 134 in a direction away from the inlet valve assembly 112.
A small annular gap is present between the second region 138 of the spool 134 and the third region of the bore of the valve body 130. The outer seal 148 forms a gas-tight seal against the third region of the bore of the valve body 130, The inner seal 146 can form an airtight seal with the bore of the valve body 130 at the tapered region between the second and third regions of the bore when the spool 134 is at the limit of its movement away from the inlet valve assembly 1 12.
The outlet valve assembly 1 14 further includes a regulator. The regulator comprises a valve mass 162 of resiliency deformable material. The valve mass 162 is generally annular with a closed circular end face and is a close lit within the second region of the bore of the valve body 130. A the end face forms a surface of the valve mass at 180 that faces towards the inlet valve assembly 1 12 is flat, and the opposite surface is convex. This forms a scaling pad that can close the bore of the \alve body 130. Bores 182 (Shown in Figure 21 ) extend through the end face. An axiallv central zone of the convex face is in contact with a support 164. A helical compression spring 166 is located within the inner bore 152 of the spool 134 and extends to contact the support 164. A void surrounds the support 164 and the part of the spring 166 that projects from the spool 134. An annular base 1 68, which is a close fit within the second region of the bore of the valve body 130 of rigid material, is in contact with the valve mass 162. The base 168 has a flange 170 that is a close fit within the first region of the bore of the valve body 130. An O-ring 172 forms an airtight seal between the ilangc 170 and a step between the first and second regions of the bore of the valve body 130. The flange is 170 is located against the O-ring 172 by a circlip 174 located in a groove in the bore of the valve body 130. The bore of the valve body 130 has a tapered opening to facilitate insertion of the circlip 174. Λ valve insert 176 passes through the base 168 and the valve mass 162 to the support 164. The insert 176 has an axial through bore with a section of reduced diameter to form a flow restriction.
Operation of this embodiment will now be described with reference to figures 16 to 20.
Initially, the chamber 1 10 contains air at substantially ambient pressure (Fig 16). The spool 134 of the outlet valve assembly is urged by the spring away from the inlet valve assembly 1 12 such that the inner seal 146 forms a seal with the valve body 130 and the end of the bore of the insert 176 is sealed against the sealing pad, as shown in Figure 21.
Air is then introduced into the chamber through the inlet valve assembly 122. While the air is at a pressure below the minimum cut-off pressure, Jt can enter the through bore of the insert 176, as shown in Figure 17.
The pressure within the chamber 110 rises to exceed the minimum cut-off pressure, as shown in Figure 18. The valve mass 162 is compressed by the air such that the end of the bore of the insert 176 is clear of the sealing pad. Air can now pass from the bore into the surrounding void. However, the air cannot pass the inner seal 146 of the spool 130. Upon connection of the energy storage device to a device to be powered, the spool is displaced towards the inlet valve assembly 1 12 against the force of the spring 166, as shown in Figure 19, This lifts the inner seal 146 from its seat, thereby allowing air to pass into the annular space between the spool 130 and the bore. The air cannot pass the outer seal 150, so instead passes into the radial drilling 156. From there, it can ieaλ'e the device through the central bore 160 of the outlet sea! 158. This configuration is shown in Figure 22.
Tf the pressure within the chamber 1 10 exceeds a threshold, delivery of air from the device must be prevented to avoid damage to apparatus to be powered. The valve mass 162 is distorted by the compressive force of the air, as shown in Figures 20 and 23, The effect of this is that the sealing pad is forced against the bore of the valve body 130 so closing it and preventing further air flow.
Although the embodiments described relate to a source of energy for use in an air pistol, embodiments of the invention have many different potential applications where a rechargeable source of pneumatic energy is required. Moreover, embodiments can be used with gasscs other than air. including inert gasses such as nitrogen, fuel gasses such as hydrogen, and so forth. For example, such applications may include, but are not limited to:
• inflating articles.
• powering actuators in machinery, such as vending machinery;
• use in "cordless'" pneumatic power tools:
• as an air battery, being a power supply with multiple applications;
• fire extinguishers;
• drug delivery; and
• providing a source of gas to maintain engine turbochargers in motion to reduce turbo lag.
Naturally, the pressure and volume of each embodiment will be selected as appropriate to the application, as will the gas that is stored within the cartridge for use. The body component can simply be scaled to provide the storage volume required for a particular embodiment. Th e rates of the springs of the outlet valve assembly are selected to provide minimum and maximum pressure thresholds lor each application. The selection of such spring rates can readily be achieved by routine experimentation once the pressure and volume specifications of the gas to be delivered are known.

Claims

Claims
f . Λ refillablc cailridge for storage ol" compressed gas comprising a chamber within which can be stored gas under pressure, a filling valve assembly through which gas can be charged into the chamber and an outlet valve assembly through which gas can be withdrawn from the chamber, the outlet valve assembly being operative to open automatically upon connection to a device intended to receive compressed gas.
2. Λ reJ] liable cartridge according to claim 1 in which the filling valve assembly includes a one-way valve through which air can pass into but not out of the chamber.
3. A refillablc cartridge according to claim 2 in which the one-way valve comprises a resilient sealing element that covers an inlet duct, the sealing element disposed such that pressure of air within the chamber urges the sealing element into contact with material surrounding the inlet duct.
4. A refiilablc cartridge according to claim 3 in which the resilient scaling element comprises a band of elastomeric material that surrounds a body from which the inlet duct exits.
5. A reflllable cartridge according to any preceding claim in which the outlet valve assembly includes a pressure threshold valve operative to allow gas to pass from the chamber only when the pressure of the gas exceeds a threshold.
6. A refillable cartridge according to claim 5 in which the threshold valve includes a sealing element urged by a spring to close an outlet orifice, whereby pressure Q[ air within the chamber opposes the spring force.
7. A rcflllable cartridge according to claim 6 in which the spring includes a body of elastomeric material.
8. A refillable cartridge according to any preceding claim in which the outlet valve assembly includes an outlet valve that can be opened to permit discharge of gas from the device.
9. A refillable cartridge according to claim 8 in which the outlet valve is a spool valve.
10. A refillable cartridge according to claim 9 comprising a spring to urge the spool towards a closed position.
11. A rellllablc cartridge according to claim 8 or claim 9 which, upon connection to apparatus to which gas is to be delivered, the spool is to an open position.
12. A refillable cartridge according to any one of claims 9 to 1 1 in which the spool is arranged such that the compressed air exerts a minimum of net force on it.
13. A refillable cartridge according to claim 12 in which the compressed air applies substantially equal force on opposite directions to the spool.
14. A refillable cartridge according to any one of claims 9 to 13 in which the spool has a plurality of peripheral sealing elements that form a seal between the spool and a surrounding bore.
15. A refillable cartridge according to claim 14 in which an air delivery duct is provided in the spool to provide an air channel from an axial position between two adjacent sealing elements and an outlet duct of the device.
16. A relillabic cartridge according to claim 15 in which, when the valve is in an open condition, one of the two adjacent sealing elements is at least partially contained within a chamber formed in the bore.
17. Λ rcfillable cartridge according to any preceding claim in which the outlet valve assembly includes a mass of elastomeric material that can be deflected by pressure of air within the chamber.
18. A refiflable cartridge according to any preceding claim in which the chamber is filled with compressed air.
19. A reiϊllable cartridge according Io claim 16 in which the compressed air is at a pressure in excess of 60MPa.
20. Λ rcfillable cartridge according to any preceding claim suitable for operative connection to an air gun.
21. Λ refillable cartridge for storage of compressed gas substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.
22. An energy supply system comprising a cartridge according to any preceding claim and charging apparatus suitable for charging the cartridge with compressed gas.
23. An energy supply system according to claim 21 that includes several cartridges for each charging apparatus.
24. An energy supply system according to claim 21 or claim 22 in which the charging apparatus includes one or more of a pump, a compressor or a reservoir of compressed air.
PCT/GB2007/050030 2006-01-21 2007-01-19 Refillable compressed gas cartridge WO2007083165A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0601336.1 2006-01-21
GBGB0601336.1A GB0601336D0 (en) 2006-01-21 2006-01-21 Energy storage system

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WO2007083165A9 true WO2007083165A9 (en) 2007-09-27

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GB0904624D0 (en) * 2009-02-25 2009-04-29 Linde Ag Gas capsule
CN102338056B (en) * 2010-07-19 2013-10-23 黄英哲 High-pressure inflating pump structure

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US4137893A (en) * 1977-10-31 1979-02-06 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army Riot control weapon
IT1208981B (en) * 1983-09-14 1989-07-10 Dragon Kit Srl DEVICE PARTICULARLY SUITABLE FOR PERFORMING SMALL WELDING WORKS WITH A FLAME POWERED BY OXYGEN AND COMBUSTIBLE GAS WITH KEEP IN DISPOSABLE TANKS
US4653550A (en) * 1985-06-24 1987-03-31 Crowley Joseph R Portable refillable inflator
US4848394A (en) * 1986-05-13 1989-07-18 N B Marketing Company (Proprietary) Limited Gas cartridge
GB2319074B (en) * 1996-11-06 2000-08-02 Constantia Gas cartridge
US5894869A (en) * 1997-05-12 1999-04-20 Crosman Corporation CO2 cartridge pressurization device
GB2333583A (en) * 1998-01-22 1999-07-28 Luciano Joseph Camilleri Improved gas bottle and air gun
GB2347735A (en) * 1999-03-12 2000-09-13 Brocock Limited Compressed gas cartridge for multiple discharge use

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GB0601336D0 (en) 2006-03-01
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GB0701105D0 (en) 2007-02-28

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