U.S. patent application number 10/988309 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-09 for shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus.
Invention is credited to Carns, James A., Cutler, Theron L., Shelly, Mark A..
Application Number | 20050120534 10/988309 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31494876 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050120534 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Carns, James A. ; et
al. |
June 9, 2005 |
Shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus
Abstract
A shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus is provided that includes
at least one outer conduit and at least one inner conduit disposed
within the outer conduit. Preferably, the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus further includes at least one shrouded end fitting
disposed at an end of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus and
at least one support member engaged with the inner and outer
conduits. The shrouded end fitting allows the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus to be engaged with an additional
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus. The support member allows for
the transfer of loads from the inner and/or outer conduits to one
or more components external to the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus. Accordingly, the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus may
be used to transport fuel through an aircraft "ignition zone" in an
FAA-compliant manner.
Inventors: |
Carns, James A.; (Wichita,
KS) ; Cutler, Theron L.; (Wichita, KS) ;
Shelly, Mark A.; (Bel Aire, KS) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HARNESS, DICKEY & PIERCE, P.L.C.
P.O. BOX 828
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
MI
48303
US
|
Family ID: |
31494876 |
Appl. No.: |
10/988309 |
Filed: |
November 13, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10988309 |
Nov 13, 2004 |
|
|
|
10215498 |
Aug 9, 2002 |
|
|
|
6848720 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
29/428 ;
29/801 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16L 25/01 20130101;
Y10T 29/53443 20150115; B64D 37/32 20130101; Y10T 29/49826
20150115; B64D 37/005 20130101; F16L 39/005 20130101; F16L 23/167
20130101; H01R 4/643 20130101; F16L 2201/30 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
029/428 ;
029/801 |
International
Class: |
F16L 039/00; B23P
011/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of conducting fluid within an aircraft, the method
comprising shrouding an inner conduit, coupling the inner conduit
to supporting structure within the aircraft to allow the inner
conduit to transfer a load to an external component, placing the
inner conduit in communication with a source of fluid, and
delivering fluid from the source to the inner conduit to
communicate the fluid through the inner conduit.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein coupling the inner conduit
includes coupling the inner conduit to supporting structure within
an ignition zone of the aircraft, and wherein delivering fluid
includes delivering fuel from the source to the inner conduit to
communicate the fuel through the ignition zone.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the method includes coupling a
support member to the inner conduit.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein coupling a support member
includes slidably positioning the support member over the inner
conduit such that the inner conduit extends outwardly from each
side of the support member.
5. The method of claim 3, wherein coupling a support member
includes welding corresponding portions of the inner conduit into
weld sockets defined by the support member.
6. The method of claim 3, wherein shrouding includes slidably
positioning first and second portions of an outer conduit over the
inner conduit, and welding the first and second portions of the
outer conduit into weld sockets defined by the support member.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein shrouding includes disposing the
inner conduit within an outer conduit.
8. The method of claim 1, further comprising removably coupling the
inner conduit between at least two other fluid-conducting apparatus
to place the inner conduit in fluid communication with the other
fluid-conducting apparatus.
9. A support member for a shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus
including at least one outer conduit and at least one inner conduit
disposed within the at least one outer conduit, the support member
comprising an inner member engageable with the at least one inner
conduit, and an outer member defining weld sockets sized to engage
corresponding portions of the at least one outer conduit, the inner
and outer members being separated by a spaced distance to define a
leak detection passageway therebetween, the support member being
coupled to supporting structure within an aircraft and enabling
transfer of loads from the at least one inner conduit engaged with
the inner member to one or more components external to the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus.
10. The support member of claim 9, wherein the support member is
coupled to supporting structure within an ignition zone of the
aircraft.
11. The support member of claim 10, wherein the support member is
coupled to the supporting structure such that the at least one
inner conduit is allowed to remain in communication with a source
of fuel to communicate the fuel through the ignition zone.
12. The support member of claim 9, wherein the support member
inhibits movement of the at least one inner conduit relative to the
at least one outer conduit when the at least one inner conduit is
engaged to the inner member and the corresponding portions of the
at least one outer conduit are welded to the weld sockets of the
outer member.
13. The support member of claim 9, wherein the inner member defines
weld sockets sized to engage corresponding portions of the at least
inner outer conduit.
14. The support member of claim 9, further comprising at least one
fin disposed between the inner and outer members.
15. The support member of claim 14, wherein at least one fin of the
support member defines a passageway therethrough in which is
installed at least a portion of a fluid control system.
16. A shrouded-fluid conducting apparatus comprising the support
member of claim 9.
17. A shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus comprising means for
delivering fuel from a source through an ignition zone of an
aircraft, means for shrouding the means for delivering, and means
for coupling the means for delivering to supporting structure
within the aircraft, the means for coupling enabling transfer of
loads from the means for delivering to an external component.
18. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising means for
removably coupling the means for delivering between at least two
other fluid-conducting apparatus.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a divisional of presently allowed U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/215,498, filed on Aug. 9, 2002. The
entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to fluid-conducting
apparatus and more particularly to methods and apparatus for
conducting fuel in aircraft.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
regulations, fuel lines (e.g., manifolds, conduits) that conduct or
transport fuel through areas classified by the FAA as "ignition
zones" (e.g., pressurized areas) must be shrouded and capable of
being drained. The applicable sections of the FAA requirements
relative to fuel lines in aircraft ignition zones for transport
category airplanes are contained in 14 C.F.R. Part 25, the
pertinent parts of which are set forth below.
[0004] For example, Section 25.855 states in pertinent part that
"for each cargo and baggage compartment not occupied by crew or
passengers . . . no compartment may contain any controls, wiring,
lines, equipment, or accessories whose damage or failure would
affect safe operation, unless those items are protected so that . .
. they cannot be damaged by the movement of cargo in the
compartment, and . . . their breakage or failure will not create a
fire hazard." Section 25.863 states in pertinent part that "in each
area where flammable fluids or vapors might escape by leakage of a
fluid system, there must be means to minimize the probability of
ignition of the fluids and vapors, and the resultant hazards if
ignition does occur." Section 25.901 states in pertinent part that
"for each power plant and auxiliary power unit installation, it
must be established that no single failure or malfunction or
probable combination of failures will jeopardize the safe operation
of the airplane except that the failure of structural elements need
not be considered if the probability of such failure is extremely
remote." Section 25.967 states in pertinent part that "each fuel
tank must be isolated from personnel compartments by a fumeproof
and fuelproof enclosure."
[0005] To summarize, the FAA regulations ensure that no single
failure will jeopardize safe operation of the aircraft, as would be
the case if single-wall fuel manifolds were used in aircraft
"ignition zones." That is, a leak or rupture in a single-wall fuel
manifold would allow fuel to enter the "ignition zone", which could
result in catastrophic event were the fuel to ignite or
explode.
[0006] To comply with the FAA shrouded fuel line requirements,
several methods have been employed. One method involves the
installation of a hose inside a tube. To be compatible with the
present aerial refueling manifold which includes a five-inch (5.0")
outside diameter duct, this concept requires the hose to be
disposed within a twelve inch (12.0") outside diameter tube. Due to
space limitations aboard aircraft, however, the relatively large
outside diameter required for the outer tube has rendered this
hose-in-tube concept impracticable.
[0007] In another effort at least in part to satisfy the FAA
shrouded fuel line requirements, an alternative method has involved
placing an inner tube in a second tube without any means for
supporting the inner tube. Accordingly, the inner tube in this
concept is unable to transfer loads to the outer tube and/or to
components external thereto and is thus not viable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Accordingly, a need remains for an FAA-compliant device and
method for transporting fuel through an aircraft "ignition zone"
that is not space or cost prohibitive. Ideally, the device would
allow for the transfer of loads from the device to one or more
components external to the device.
[0009] In one form, the present invention provides a shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus that includes at least one outer conduit
and at least one inner conduit disposed within the outer conduit.
Preferably, the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus further
includes at least one shrouded end fitting disposed at an end of
the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus and at least one support
member engaged with the inner and outer conduits. The shrouded end
fitting allows the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus to be
engaged with an additional shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus. The
support member allows for the transfer of loads from the inner
and/or outer conduits to one or more components external to the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus. Accordingly, the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus may be used to transport fuel through an
aircraft "ignition zone" in an FAA-compliant manner.
[0010] In another form, the present invention provides a method of
manufacturing or making a shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus.
Generally, the method comprises the steps of: disposing at least
one inner conduit within at least one outer conduit; engaging at
least one support member with the inner and outer conduits; and
engaging at least one shrouded end fitting with an end of the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus.
[0011] In yet another form, the present invention provides a method
for conducting fluid. Generally, the method comprises the steps of:
shrouding at least one inner conduit, for example, by disposing the
inner conduit within an outer conduit; allowing the inner conduit
to transfer a load to an external component; placing the inner
conduit in fluid communication with at least one other
fluid-conducting apparatus; and delivering fluid to the inner
conduit. To allow for coaxial fluid flow, the method may further
comprise the step of delivering fluid to the outer conduit.
[0012] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will
become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter.
It should be understood that the detailed description and specific
examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the
invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are
not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The present invention will be more fully understood from the
detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus constructed in accordance with the principles of the
present invention;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the support member of the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus shown in FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus taken along the plane 3-3 in FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a detailed cross-sectional view of portions of the
support member and inner and outer conduits of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus shown in FIG. 3;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus including a second embodiment
of a support member constructed in accordance with the principles
of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 6 is another perspective view of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus shown in FIG. 5 with its lower portion
disposed in a second position;
[0020] FIG. 7 is yet another perspective view of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus shown in FIG. 5 with its lower portion
disposed in a third position;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the second embodiment of the
support member shown in FIGS. 5 through 7;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus taken along the plane 9-9 in FIG. 5;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a detailed cross-sectional view of portions of
the support member and inner and outer conduits of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus shown in FIG. 9;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the shrouded end fitting
shown in FIG. 1;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a detailed cross-sectional view of portions of
the shrouded end fitting and inner and outer conduits of the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus shown in FIG. 3;
[0026] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of
a joint that may be used to engage a shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus with an additional shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 14 is a cutaway side view of the joint shown in FIG.
13;
[0028] FIG. 15 is a detailed cutaway side view of a portion of the
joint shown in FIG. 14;
[0029] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus constructed in accordance with
the principles of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus taken along the plane 17-17 in FIG.
16;
[0031] FIG. 18 is a perspective of a second embodiment of a joint
that may be used to engage a shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus
with an additional shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus in
accordance with the principles of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the shrouded end fitting
that is shown disposed at an end of the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus in FIG. 16;
[0033] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the shrouded end fitting
that is shown disposed at another end of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus in FIG. 16 and that is engageable with
the shrouded end fitting shown in FIG. 19;
[0034] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional side view illustrating the
shrouded end fittings of FIGS. 19 and 20 aligned for
engagement;
[0035] FIG. 22 is a cutaway side view of the joint shown in FIG.
18;
[0036] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the support member shown in
FIG. 8 illustrating a fin that is configured for installation of a
portion of a fluid control system constructed in accordance with
the principles of the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 24 is a frontal view of the support member shown in
FIG. 23; and
[0038] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the support member
taken along the plane 25-25 shown in FIG. 24.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0039] The following description of the preferred embodiments is
merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the
invention, its application, or uses. For example, it is anticipated
that the invention will be applicable to any of a wide range of
aircraft (e.g., but not limited to, fighter jets, commercial jets,
private jets, propeller powered airplanes, among others) regardless
of the manner in which the aircraft is piloted (e.g., directly,
remotely, via automation, or in a combination thereof, among
others). Indeed, the present invention need not even be limited to
aircraft. Accordingly, the specific references to aircraft herein
should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present
invention. In addition, it is also anticipated that the invention
will be applicable to any of a wide range of fluids, e.g., gases
and liquids, regardless of whether the fluid is being used as a
fuel. Accordingly, the specific references to fuel, gases, or
liquids herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
present invention.
[0040] In addition, certain terminology will also be used in the
following description for the purpose of reference only, and thus
are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as
"upper", "lower", "above", and "below" refer to directions in the
drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as "front", "back",
"rear", and "side", describe the orientation of portions of the
component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference
which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated
drawings describing the component under discussion. Such
terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above,
derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Similarly, the
terms "first", "second" and other such numerical terms referring to
structures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly
indicated by the context.
[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus generally indicated by reference number 10, according to
one preferred embodiment of the present invention. Generally, the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10 comprises at least one inner
conduit 12 and at least one outer conduit 14 disposed around the
inner conduit 12. The outer conduit 14 includes a lumen that is
sized to receive the inner conduit 12. The inner conduit 12
includes a lumen that allows for a fluid (e.g., gases and liquids)
flow through the inner conduit 12. The outer conduit 14 shrouds the
inner conduit 12 to contain any fluid leaking from the inner
conduit 12 and thus prevent the leaking fluid from reaching the
compartment in which the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10 is
being used. Accordingly, the inner and outer conduits 12 and 14
must both fail before a fluid being conducted through the inner
conduit 12 can reach the compartment or space in which the shrouded
fluid-conducted apparatus 10 is being used. The shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 thus allows a fluid to be conducted
through the inner conduit 12 under a double failure condition.
[0042] As further shown in FIG. 1, the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10 may include at least one support member 20. The
various embodiments 20 and 120 of the support member are described
in greater detail below. Briefly, however, the inner conduit 12 may
be inclined to move or shift within the outer conduit 14 while a
fluid is being conducted through the inner conduit 12. The support
member 20 prevents, or at least reduces, the movement of the inner
conduit 12 within the outer conduit 14. In other words, the support
member 20 holds or keeps the inner conduit 12 substantially
stationary with respect to the outer conduit 14. Without the
support member 20, a sufficiently high pressure within the inner
conduit 12 could cause the inner conduit 12 to strike or impact the
outer conduit 14 with sufficient force to damage either or both of
the conduits 12 and 14. Accordingly, the support member 20
increases the stability and useful life of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10. In addition, and as described in
greater detail below, the support member 20 may also allow for the
installation of at least a portion of a fluid control system, allow
for curvature of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10, and/or
allow for loads to be transferred from the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 to an external component (e.g.,
ceiling joists, floor beams, and other load-bearing
structures).
[0043] Still referring to FIG. 1, at least one shrouded end fitting
22 may be disposed at an end of the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10. Preferably, however, a shrouded end fitting 22 is
disposed at each end of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10.
The various embodiments 22, 222, 223 of the shrouded end fittings
are described in greater detail below. Briefly, however, the
shrouded end fittings 22 may be used to connect the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 to an additional shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10', as shown in FIGS. 13 through 15.
Alternatively, the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10 may be
connected by way of the shrouded end fittings 22 to any one of a
wide range of other fluid-conducting apparatus having end fittings
mateable or engageable with the shrouded end fittings 22, as would
be obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art after having
become familiar with the teaching of the present invention. The
shrouded end fittings 22 may also be used to hold or keep the inner
conduit 12 substantially stationary with respect to the outer
conduit 14 and/or to transfer loads from the inner and outer
conduits 12 and 14 to an external component (e.g., ceiling joists,
floor beams, and other load-bearing structures).
[0044] It should be noted that although the Figures show a single
support member 20, 120 disposed between two shrouded end fittings
22, 222, 223, such need not be the case. For example, the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus may comprise a plurality of (i.e., two
or more) support members disposed between the two shrouded end
fittings.
[0045] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the support member 20. As
shown, the support member 20 preferably comprises concentric
annular-shaped or ring-like members 24 and 26. The inner and outer
ring-like members 24 and 26 are separated by a spaced distance and
accordingly define a leak detection passageway 45, as shown in FIG.
4. The leak detection passageway 45 allows for a fluid flow between
the inner and outer ring-like members 24 and 26.
[0046] Referring back to FIG. 2, the support member 20 may further
include a plurality of spokes, webs, or fins 38 that are disposed
between the inner and outer ring-like members 24 and 26. The inner
ring-like member 24 includes a central opening 28 that is sized to
receive the inner conduit 12.
[0047] The outer ring-like member 26 is sized to be disposed around
an end portion of the outer conduit 14. Each end of the outer
ring-like member 26 may be provided with a notch or weld socket 30
sized to allow the outer conduit portion 34 to be welded therein,
as shown in FIG. 4.
[0048] When assembled, the support member 20 may have a two-fold
purpose. First, the support member 20 may be used to hold the inner
conduit 12 substantially stationary with respect to the outer
conduit 14. That is, the support member 20 may be used to
compensate for or overcome the inclination of the inner conduit 12
to move or shift within the outer conduit 14 while the inner
conduit 12 is conducting fluid. In addition, the support member 20
may also be used to allow for the transfer of loads from the inner
and outer conduits 12 and 14 to an external component.
Specifically, the inner conduit 12 may transfer loads arising from,
for example, the weight of the inner conduit 12 and the weight of
the fluid conducted thereby, to the support member 20. The support
member 20 may then transfer those loads to a component external to
the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10 to which the support
member 20 may be engaged. Accordingly, the fins 38 of the support
member 20 are preferably sized according to the loads that will be
transferred thereto by the inner conduit 12.
[0049] In addition, at least one fin 38 may be configured for
allowing installation of at least a portion or a component of a
fluid control system therein. For example, the fin 38 may be
sufficiently thick to allow a passageway (e.g., threaded hole or
bore) to be provided therethrough. If so, the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 may then be provided with a
passageway that extends through each of the outer ring-like member
26, the fin 38, the inner ring-like member 24 and the inner conduit
12. The passageway may then be used for installing a union or pipe
coupling, a drain, a pressure regulator/monitor, among other
components of a fluid control system in a manner similar to that
shown in FIGS. 23 through 25, which illustrate the union 141
installed in the passageway 139 extending through the inner and
outer ring-like members 124, 126 and the fin 138 of support member
120.
[0050] Installation of a drain would allow for the removal of fluid
from the inner conduit 12 thereby making the removal, repair,
and/or replacement of the inner conduit 12 easier. Installation of
a pressure regulator/monitor would allow for the pressure within
the inner conduit 12 to be monitored and regulated. Depending on
the pressure within the inner conduit 12, the pressure
regulator/monitor could send commands to a switch control for the
pumps providing the fluid pressure to the inner conduit 12 to
either increase, decrease, or maintain pressure. In either case,
the passageway provided through the support member 20 and the inner
conduit 12 might be capped with a heater coil and a plug (e.g., a
threaded plug).
[0051] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 taken along the plane 3-3 shown in
FIG. 1. Although the manner in which the support member 20 may be
engaged with the inner and outer conduits 12 and 14 is shown FIG.
3, it is best shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a detailed cross-sectional
view of an upper portion (i.e., the portion disposed above the
center line 40) of the support member 20 shown engaged with the
inner and outer conduits 12 and 14.
[0052] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the support member 20 and the
conduits 12 and 14 may be assembled in the following manner. First,
the support member 20 is slidably positioned or disposed around the
inner conduit 12, which preferably comprises a single continuous
member. As shown, the inner conduit 12 is positioned within the
inner ring-like member 24 of support member 20.
[0053] Next, the inner conduit 12 and inner ring-like member 24 are
attached or secured to one another. For example, a compatible
filler material may be used to weld (e.g., fillet weld, butt weld,
etc.) the inner conduit 12 and inner ring-like member 24 to each
other at any number of (i.e., one or more), but preferably at least
two, locations thus creating weld joints 42. Or for example, an
adhesive may be used to secure the inner conduit 12 to the inner
ring-like member 24. Alternatively, other methods for attaching the
inner conduit 12 to the inner ring-like member 24 are possible as
would be obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art after
having become familiar with the teachings of the invention.
[0054] After the inner conduit 12 has been attached to the inner
ring-like member 24, the outer conduit 14 is attached or secured to
the outer ring-like member 26. As shown, the outer conduit 14
comprises a first portion 34 and a second portion 44 between which
is disposed the outer ring-like member 26. The outer conduit
portions 34 and 44 may be each welded (e.g., fillet weld, butt
weld, etc.) to a corresponding weld socket 30 in the outer
ring-like member 26 thus forming weld joints 36 between the support
member 20 and the corresponding outer conduit portions 34 and 44.
Alternatively, other methods for attaching the outer conduit
portions 34 and 44 to the outer ring-like member 26 may be possible
as would be obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art after
having become familiar with the teachings of the invention.
[0055] The inner and outer ring-like members 24 and 26 are
preferably separated by a spaced distance and accordingly define
the leak detection passageway 45. The leak detection passageway 45
provides fluid communication between the outer conduit portions 34
and 44. That is, the leak detection passageway 45 allows a fluid to
flow from the outer conduit portion 34 or 44 into the other outer
conduit portion 34 or 44.
[0056] Preferably, a leak detection system is provided that is
capable of detecting the presence of a leak in the inner conduit 12
and providing an appropriate warning thereof. For example, the leak
detection system may detect the presence of a fluid within the
outer conduit 14. Or for example, the leak detection system may
monitor the pressure within the outer conduit 14 and provide a
warning if the pressure changes as a result of, for example, a
fluid leaking into the outer conduit 14 from the inner conduit 12.
Because of the leak detection passageway 45, a leak detection
system is not necessarily needed for each of the outer conduit
portions 34 and 44. Instead, a single leak detection system
provided along either conduit portion 34 or 44 may be used to
detect fluid in either of the outer conduit portions 34 or 44. In
one embodiment, the leak detection system may comprise a weld boss
that is welded to the outer conduit portion 34, wherein pressure
sensors or early detection lines are provided on the weld boss.
[0057] Any of a wide range of materials and manufacturing processes
may be used to produce the support member 20. The selection of
material may depend at least in part on the materials comprising
the inner and outer conduits 12 and 14 and the manner in which the
inner and outer conduits 12 and 14 will be engaged with the support
member 20. The selection of manufacturing process may depend at
least in part on the material that is selected for the support
member 20. Preferably, the support member material is preferably
compatible with the conduit material(s), the method (e.g., welding)
used to engage the support member 20 with the inner and outer
conduits 12 and 14, and the method used to make the support member
20. By way of example only, the support member 20 may comprise
aluminum (e.g., 6061-T4 aluminum) or stainless steel and be formed
by a machining or milling process.
[0058] FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 are each perspective views of a second
embodiment of a shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 110 in which a
portion 146 thereof that is disposed below the support member 120
is shown in respective first, second, and third positions 148, 150,
152. The portion 164 of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 110
disposed above the support member 120 is shown to be essentially in
the same position in FIGS. 5 through 7.
[0059] The shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 110 includes curved
or bent inner and outer conduits 112 and 114. To accommodate for
the curvatures in the inner and outer conduits 112 and 114, the
second embodiment of the support member 120 is used. The support
member 120 allows for curvature or flexure of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 110 in the manner that is described in
detail below. Accordingly, the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus
110 may be used, for example, at corners or other locations where
flexure or curvature is required.
[0060] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the support member 120. As
before with the first embodiment 20, the support member 120 may
also comprise an inner ring-like member 124 and an outer ring-like
member 126 that are separated by a spaced distance and accordingly
define a leak detection passageway 145, as shown in FIG. 10. The
leak detection passageway 145 allows for a fluid flow between the
inner and outer ring-like members 124 and 126.
[0061] Referring back to FIG. 8, the support member 120 may also
include a plurality of fins 138 that are disposed between the inner
and outer ring-like members 124 and 126. In addition, at least one
fin 138 may be configured for allowing installation of at least a
portion or a component of a fluid control system therein. For
example, the fin 138 may be sufficiently thick to allow a
passageway (e.g., threaded hole or bore) to be provided
therethrough. As shown in FIGS. 23 through 25, the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 may then be provided with a
passageway 139 that extends through each of the outer ring-like
member 126, the fin 138, and the inner ring-like member 124. The
passageway 139 may then be used for installing the union or pipe
coupling 141, among other components of a fluid control system.
[0062] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 110 taken along the plane 9-9 in FIG. 5.
Although shown in FIG. 9, the manner in which the support member
120 is engaged with the inner and outer conduits 112 and 114 is
best shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a detailed cross-sectional view
of a portion (i.e., the portion disposed on a side of the center
line 140) of the support member 120 shown engaged with the inner
and outer conduits 112 and 114.
[0063] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the outer ring-like member 126
may be provided with notches or weld sockets 130 sized to allow the
outer conduit portions 134 and 144 to be welded therein.
Accordingly, a compatible filler material may be used to weld
(e.g., fillet weld, butt weld, etc.) the outer conduit portions 134
and 144 to the weld sockets 130, thus forming the weld joints
136.
[0064] Unlike the first embodiment 20, however, the inner ring-like
member 124 of the support member 120 may also be provided with
notches or weld sockets 154 sized to allow the inner conduit
portions 158 and 162 to be welded therein. Accordingly, a
compatible filler material may be used to weld (e.g., fillet weld,
butt weld, etc.) the inner conduit portions 158 and 162 to the weld
sockets 154, thus forming the weld joints 160. The weld sockets 154
provided in the inner ring-like member 124 may be essentially
identical to the weld sockets 130 provided in the outer ring-like
member 126, although such need not be the case.
[0065] The support member 120 and the conduits 112 and 114 may be
assembled in the following manner. The inner conduit portion 158
and outer conduit portion 134 may be rotated about the center line
140 to their proper positions. While the inner and outer conduit
portions 158 and 134 are being rotated about the center line 140,
the end portions of the inner and outer conduit portions 158 and
134 may be kept square or flush with the support member 120. After
the proper positioning has been obtained, the inner conduit portion
158 may be welded to the weld socket 154, and the outer conduit
portion 134 may be welded to the weld socket 130.
[0066] Next, the inner and outer conduit portions 162 and 144 may
be twisted or rotated about the center line 140 to their proper
positions. Once the proper positions have been obtained for the
inner and outer conduit portions 162 and 144, the inner and outer
conduit portions 162 and 144 may then be welded to the respective
weld sockets 154 and 130.
[0067] It should be noted, however, that the inner and outer
conduits 112 and 114 may be attached to the support member 120 in
ways other than welding as would be obvious to one having ordinary
skill in the art after having become familiar with the teachings of
the invention. For example, an adhesive may be used to attach the
inner and outer conduits 112 and 114 to the support member 120.
[0068] To rotate the inner and outer conduits 112 and 114 with
respect to the support member 120, a vice may be used. The support
member 120 may be held fast or stationary within the vice while the
conduits 112 and 114 are being rotated. Alternatively, other
methods may be used to rotate the conduits 112 and 114 with respect
to the support member 120 as would be obvious to one having
ordinary skill in the art after having become familiar with the
teachings of the present invention.
[0069] As before with the first embodiment 20, the support member
120 also preferably defines a leak detection passageway 145. The
leak detection passageway 145 provides fluid communication between
the outer conduit portions 134 and 144. That is, the leak detection
passageway 145 allows a fluid to flow from the outer conduit
portion 134 or 144 into the other outer conduit portion 134 or 144.
Accordingly, the leak detection passageway 145 provides advantages
similar to that provided by the leak detection passageway 45 which
were described previously.
[0070] Any of a wide range of materials and manufacturing processes
may be used to produce the support member 120. The selection of
material may depend at least in part on the materials comprising
the inner and outer conduits 112 and 114 and the manner in which
the inner and outer conduits 112 and 114 will be engaged with the
support member 120. The selection of manufacturing process may
depend at least in part on the material that is selected for the
support member 120. Preferably, the support member material is
preferably compatible with the conduit material(s), the method used
to engage the support member 120 with the inner and outer conduits
112 and 114, and the method used to make the support member 120. By
way of example only, the support member 120 may comprise aluminum
(e.g., 6061-T4 aluminum) or stainless steel and be formed by a
machining or milling process.
[0071] As briefly described earlier and as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3,
the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10 has a shrouded end
fitting 22 disposed at each of its opposed ends. The shrouded end
fittings 22 are shown in detail in FIGS. 11 through 15.
[0072] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the shrouded end fitting
22. As shown, the shrouded end fitting 22 preferably comprises a
ferrule-like shape. More specifically, the shrouded end fitting 22
comprises an inner portion 66 and an outer portion 68 that are
separated by a spaced distance. The inner and outer portions 66 and
68 may be provided with notches or weld sockets 70 and 72,
respectively. As best shown in FIG. 12, the inner and outer
conduits 12 and 14 may be welded (e.g., fillet weld, butt weld,
etc.) into the weld sockets 70 and 72, respectively.
[0073] Referring back to FIG. 11, the shrouded end fitting 22 may
further include a plurality of spokes, webs, or fins 74 that are
disposed between the inner and outer portions 66 and 68. At least
one of the fins 74 may be configured for allowing installation of
at least a portion or component of a fluid control system therein.
For example, the fin 74 may be sufficiently thick to allow a
passageway (e.g., threaded hole) to be provided therethrough and
into the inner conduit 12. The passageway may then be used to
install a union or pipe coupling, a drain, a pressure
regulator/monitor, among other components of a fluid control system
in a manner similar to that shown in FIGS. 23 through 25, which
illustrate the union 141 installed in the passageway 139 (e.g.,
threaded hole or bore) extending through the inner and outer
ring-like members 124, 126 and the fin 138 of support member
120.
[0074] Any of a wide range of materials and manufacturing processes
may be used to produce the shrouded end fitting 22. The selection
of material may depend at least in part on the materials comprising
the inner and outer conduits 12 and 14 and the manner in which the
inner and outer conduits 12 and 14 will be engaged with the
shrouded end fitting 22. The selection of manufacturing process may
depend at least in part on the material that is selected for the
shrouded end fitting 22. Preferably, the material used for the
shrouded end fitting 22 is compatible with the conduit material(s),
the method used to engage the shrouded end fitting 22 with the
inner and outer conduits 12 and 14, and the method used to make the
shrouded end fitting 22. By way of example only, the shrouded end
fitting 22 may comprise aluminum (e.g., 6061-T4 aluminum) or
stainless steel and be formed by a machining or milling
process.
[0075] FIG. 12 is detailed cross-sectional view showing portions of
the inner and outer conduits 12 and 14 engaged with a portion of
the shrouded end fitting 22 (i.e., the portion disposed above the
center line 40 of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10). The
inner and outer portions 66 and 68 of the shrouded end fittings 22
may each define a groove 76 and 78, respectively, in which is
disposed respective o-rings 80 and 82. The o-rings 80 and 82 may
assist with the fluidic sealing of the joint 84.
[0076] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of
the joint 84 that may be used to engage the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 with an additional shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10'. The joint 84 may be relatively
flexible to allow for expansion and contraction of the joint 84 as
the need arises. For example, the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10 and 10' may be disposed onboard a mobile platform
(e.g., aircraft, train, bus, ship, etc.) wherein movement of the
platform causes the need for at least some flexibility in the joint
84.
[0077] By allowing the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10 to be
engaged with additional shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10',
greater flexibility is provided to the installer of the overall
fluid-conducting system. During the installation process of a
fluid-conducting system, tight places and corners are often
encountered that require the installer to use shorter components.
At such locations, the installer may use one or more shorter length
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10 and 10'. The present
invention thus allows for the use of shorter shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 in places where shorter conduit
lengths are required but still allows for longer shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 10 to be used in other places.
[0078] To allow for electrical grounding across the joint 84, a
bonding jumper 86 (e.g., electrically conductive wire or strap,
etc.) may be used in conjunction with loop-type bonding clamps 88
and 88' disposed circumferentially around the outer conduits 14 and
14', respectively. By providing the bonding jumper 86 and clamps
88, 88' across each joint (e.g., 84) in the fluid system, the
entirety of the fluid-conducting system may be grounded when a
single component of the fluid-conducting system is grounded.
[0079] FIG. 14 is a cutaway side view of the joint 84. Although
shown in FIG. 14, the manner in which the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10 and 10' are engaged with each other is best shown in
FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is a detailed cutaway side view of a portion
(i.e., the portion disposed below the center line 40) of the joint
84.
[0080] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the joint 84 may be used to
engage the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10 and 10' with each
other. As shown, the joint 84 comprises the shrouded end fittings
22 and 22'. The joint 84 further includes an inner and outer
coupling assembly 90 and 92 and an inner and outer seal sleeve 94
and 96.
[0081] To assemble the joint 84, the shrouded end fittings 22 and
22' are first positioned adjacent one another. Next, the inner seal
sleeve 94 is disposed around the o-rings 80 and 80' and portions 66
and 66' of the shrouded end fittings 22 and 22'. The inner coupling
assembly 90 is then disposed or clamped around the inner seal
sleeve 94, the shrouded end fitting portions 66 and 66' and the
o-rings 80 and 80'. Accordingly, the inner coupling assembly 90 and
inner seal sleeve 94 fluidically seal the junction between the
inner conduits 12 and 12'.
[0082] Continuing with the joint 84 assembly process, the outer
seal sleeve 96 is then disposed around the o-rings 82 and 82' and
portions 68 and 68' of the shrouded end fittings 22 and 22'. Next,
the outer coupling assembly 92 is disposed or clamped around the
outer seal sleeve 96, the shrouded end fitting inner portions 68
and 68' and the o-rings 82 and 82'. Accordingly, the outer coupling
assembly 92 and outer seal sleeve 96 fluidically seal the junction
between the outer conduits 14 and 14'.
[0083] In addition, the inner and outer coupling assemblies 90 and
92 and the inner and outer seal sleeves 94 and 96 prevent, or at
least hinder, axial movement of the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10 and 10' away from each other.
[0084] The joint 84 also allows for fluid to be conducted from one
inner conduit 12 or 12' to the other inner conduit 12 or 12' under
a double failure condition in that two failures must occur before
that fluid can reach the compartment (e.g., an aircraft "ignition
zone") in which the shrouded fluid-conducted apparatus 10 or 10'
are disposed. For example, if a failure allows the fluid within the
inner conduit 12 or 12' to reach the outer conduit 14 or 14', the
outer coupling assembly 92 and outer seal sleeve 96 do not allow
the fluid within the outer conduit 14 or 14' to enter the
compartment.
[0085] Preferably, the joint 84 allows the inner conduits 12 and
12' to be fluid communication with each other and also defines a
leak detection passageway 98 that allows the outer conduits 14 and
14' to be in fluid communication with each other. The leak
detection passageway 98 is preferably defined at least partially
between the inner coupling assembly 90 and the outer seal sleeve
96. The leak detection passageway 98 allows a fluid to flow from
the outer conduit 14 or 14' into the other outer conduit 14 or 14'.
With the leak detection passageway 98, a leak detection system is
not necessarily needed for each of the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10 and 10'. Instead, a single leak detection system may
be used to detect fluid in either of the outer conduits 14 or
14'.
[0086] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 210. As shown, the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 210 comprises a support member 20 and is
substantially straight, as was the first embodiment 10. However,
the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 210 includes shrouded end
fittings 222 and 223 disposed at its ends.
[0087] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 210 taken along the plane 17-17 in FIG.
16. As before with the first embodiment 10 shown in FIG. 3, the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 210 comprises an inner conduit
12 and an outer conduit 14, wherein the outer conduit 14 includes
first and second portions 34 and 44 disposed between the support
member 20.
[0088] FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a joint 284 that may
be used to engage the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 210 with
an additional shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 210'. As shown,
the joint 284 may comprise the shrouded end fittings 222 and 223'
disposed at the respective ends of the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 210 and 210'. The shrouded end fittings 222 and 223' may
be engaged with each other by way of mechanical fasteners 285
(e.g., lugs, device pins, single pin joints, screws, rivets, among
others).
[0089] The joint 284 is preferably a relatively fixed joint that
allows for the transfer of loads from one shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 210 or 210' to the other and/or from the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 210 and 210' to an external component
(e.g., ceiling joist, floor beam, other load-bearing structures,
etc.). For example, it may be necessary for the fluid-conducting
system to span across a large area such that either or both of the
shrouded fluid conducting apparatus 210 or 210' may need to have
considerable length. Or for example, the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 210 and 210' may be required to conduct a fluid at a
relatively high pressure, thus requiring the inner conduits 12 and
12' to be fabricated from a relatively heavy material having
sufficient strength to withstand the fluid pressures. In either
case, the weight of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 210 and
210' may be considerable, and the joint 284 may allow for the
weight to be transferred or supported by an external component.
[0090] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the shrouded end fitting
222. As shown, the shrouded end fitting 222 comprises an inner
portion 266 and an outer portion 268 that are separated by a spaced
distance. The outer portion 268 preferably comprises a flange 267
that defines a plurality of holes 269 sized to receive the
mechanical fasteners 285 therethrough. The shrouded end fitting 222
may further include a plurality of spokes, webs, or fins 274 that
are disposed between the inner and outer portions 266 and 268.
[0091] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the shrouded end fitting
223. As shown, the shrouded end fitting 223 comprises an inner
portion 271 and an outer portion 273 that are separated by a spaced
distance. The outer portion 273 preferably comprises a flange 283
that defines a plurality of holes 275 that are sized to receive the
mechanical fasteners 285 therethrough. The shrouded end fitting 223
may further include a plurality of spokes, webs, or fins 277 that
are disposed between the inner and outer portions 271 and 273.
[0092] One or more of the fins 274 and 277 of the shrouded end
fittings 222 and 223, respectively, may be configured for allowing
installation of at least a portion or a component of a fluid
control system therein. That is, one or more of the fins 274 and
277 may be sufficiently thick to allow a passageway to be provided
therethrough, which may then be used for installation of a union or
pipe coupling, a drain, a pressure regulator, and/or other
components of a fluid control system in a manner similar to that
shown in FIGS. 23 through 25, which illustrate the union 141
installed in the passageway 139 extending through the inner and
outer ring-like members 124, 126 and the fin 138 of support member
120.
[0093] Any of a wide range of materials and manufacturing processes
may be used to produce the shrouded end fittings 222, 223. The
selection of material may depend at least in part on the materials
comprising the inner and outer conduits 12 and 14 and the manner in
which the inner and outer conduits 12 and 14 will be engaged with
the shrouded end fittings 222, 223. The selection of manufacturing
process may depend at least in part on the material that is
selected for the shrouded end fittings 222, 223. Preferably, the
material used for the shrouded end fittings 222, 223 is compatible
with the conduit material(s), the method used to engage the
shrouded end fittings 222, 223 with the inner and outer conduits 12
and 14, and the method used to make the shrouded end fittings 222,
223. By way of example only, the shrouded end fittings 222, 223 may
comprise aluminum (e.g., 6061-T4 aluminum) or stainless steel and
be formed by a machining or milling process.
[0094] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional side view illustrating a
portion (i.e., the portion disposed above the center line 240) of
the shrouded end fitting 222 of FIG. 19 aligned for engagement with
a corresponding portion of a shrouded end fitting 223' disposed at
an end of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 210'. As shown,
the inner and outer portions 266 and 268 of the shrouded end
fitting 222 may be provided with notches or weld sockets 270 and
272 into which may be welded (e.g., fillet weld, butt weld, etc.)
the inner and outer conduits 12 and 14, respectively. The inner and
outer portions 273' and 275' of the shrouded end fitting 223' may
also be provided with notches or weld sockets 279' and 281' into
which may be welded (e.g., fillet weld, butt weld, etc.) the inner
and outer conduits 12' and 14', respectively. Additionally, the
inner and outer portions 273' and 275' of the shrouded end fittings
223' may each define a groove 276' and 278', respectively, in which
is disposed respective o-rings 280' and 282'. The o-rings 280' and
282' may assist with the fluidic sealing of the joint 284.
[0095] To ensure proper alignment of the shrouded end fittings 222
and 223', the shrouded end fittings 222 and 223' may be shaped to
interfit with one another in a keyed arrangement or one relation
alignment. For example, the shrouded end fitting 222 may comprise
an alignment tab or key 287 that is sized to fit within a notch or
keyway 289' defined by the shrouded end fitting 223'. Or for
example, the shrouded end fitting 222 may, additionally or
alternatively, include a radial protrusion 291 that is disposed to
engage a chamfered or beveled surface 293' defined by the shrouded
end fitting 223'. In other embodiments, the shrouded end fitting
223' may be provided with the alignment tab and/or the radial
protrusion, and the shrouded end fitting 222 may be provided with
the notch and/or the chamfered surface.
[0096] FIG. 22 is a cutaway side view of the joint 284. As shown, a
bonding jumper 286 (e.g., wire, strap, etc.) may be used in
conjunction with loop-type bonding clamps 288 and 288' disposed
circumferentially around the outer conduits 14 and 14',
respectively, to allow for electrical grounding across the joint
284. By providing the jumper wire 286 and clamps 288 and 288'
across each joint (e.g., 284) in the fluid-conducting system, the
entirety of the fluid system may be grounded when a single
component of the fluid-conducting system is grounded.
[0097] Preferably, the joint 284 allows for fluid communication
between the inner conduits 12 and 12' and also defines a leak
detection passageway 298 that allows for fluid communication
between the outer conduits 14 an 14'. With the leak detection
passageway 298, a leak detection system is not necessarily needed
for each of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 210 and 210'.
Instead, a single leak detection system may be used to detect fluid
in either of the outer conduits 14 or 14'.
[0098] In a fourth embodiment of the shrouded fluid-conducted
apparatus that is not shown, the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus may include the support member 120 and the shrouded end
fittings 222 and 223.
[0099] It should be noted that any of the aforementioned
embodiments of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10, 110, 210
may be used to provide a coaxial fluid flow. That is, the inner and
outer conduits 12, 112 and 14, 114 of the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10, 110, 210 may both be used to transport fluids at the
same time. Moreover, the fluids being conducted by the inner
conduit 12, 112 and the outer conduit 14, 114 may be either the
same fluid or different fluids. In addition, the fluids may be
conducted in either the same or different directions. For example,
the inner conduit 12 of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10
may be used as fluid supply conduit, while the outer conduit 14 is
used as a fluid return conduit.
[0100] Dimensionally, in one preferred embodiment, the inner
conduit 12 is sized such that its inner diameter is about 4.87
inches (12.37 cm), its outer diameter is about 5.0 inches (12.7
cm), and its wall thickness is about 0.065 inches (0.165 cm). The
outer conduit 14 is sized such its inner diameter is about 5.87
inches (14.91 cm), its outer diameter is about 6.0 inches (15.24
cm), and its wall thickness is about 0.065 inches (0.165 cm). The
support member 20, 120 is sized such that its inner diameter is
about 4.87 inches (12.37 cm) and its minimum outer diameter is
about 6.14 inches (15.6 cm), which may be increased to accommodate
for support features such as lugs, device pins, etc. The shrouded
end fitting 22, 222, 223 is sized such that its inner diameter is
about 4.87 inches (12.37 cm) and its outer diameter is about 6.51
inches (16.54 cm). Accordingly, the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10 is compatible with the standard-sized aerial refueling
manifolds currently being used.
[0101] In another preferred embodiment, the inner conduit 12 is
sized such that its inner diameter is about 3.92 inches (9.96 cm),
its outer diameter is about 4.0 inches (10.16 cm), and its wall
thickness is about 0.042 inches (0.107 cm). The outer conduit 14 is
sized such that its inner diameter is about 4.87 inches (12.37 cm),
its outer diameter is about 5.0 inches (12.7 cm), and its wall
thickness is about 0.042 inches (0.107 cm). The support member 20,
120 is sized such that its inner diameter is about 3.87 inches
(9.83 cm) and its minimum outer diameter is about 5.14 inches
(13.06 cm), which may be increased to accommodate for support
features such as lugs, device pins, etc. The shrouded end fitting
22, 222, 223 is sized such that its inner diameter is about 3.87
inches (9.83 cm) and its outer diameter is about 5.51 inches (14
cm).
[0102] It should be noted, however, that the present invention is
not limited to any particularly sized inner and/or outer conduit.
That is, other conduit sizes may be employed without departing from
the spirit and scope of the present invention.
[0103] In another form, the present invention provides a method of
manufacturing or making a shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus.
Generally, the method comprises the steps of: disposing an inner
conduit within an outer conduit; engaging a support member with the
inner and outer conduits; and engaging at least one shrouded end
fitting with an end of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus.
[0104] According to one preferred embodiment, the method of making
the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10, 210 preferably
comprises the following steps. The support member 20 and the
shrouded end fittings 22, 222, 223 are made (e.g., machined,
milled, among other manufacturing processes) from an appropriate
material (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, composites, among other
materials). The support member 20 is slidably positioned around a
portion of the inner conduit 12. A compatible filler material is
used to weld the support member 20 to the inner conduit 12. The
outer conduit portions 34, 44 are slidably positioned over the
respective portions of the inner conduit 12 that extend outwardly
from each side of the support member 20. A compatible filler
material is used to weld the outer conduit portions 34, 44 to the
weld sockets 30 defined by the outer ring-like member 26 of the
support member 20. The appropriate shrouded end fitting 22, 222,
223 is then welded to each end of the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus 10, 210. Finally, the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus
10, 210 is proof pressure tested.
[0105] In another preferred embodiment, the method of making the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 110 preferably comprises the
following steps. The support member 120 and the shrouded end
fittings 22, 222, 223 are made from an appropriate material (e.g.,
aluminum, stainless steel, among others). The inner and outer
conduit portions 158, 162, 134, 144 are assembled to the support
member 120 in the manner previously described. The appropriate
shrouded end fitting 22, 222, 223 are then welded to each end of
the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 110. Finally, the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus 110 is proof pressure tested.
[0106] In yet another form, the present invention provides a method
for conducting fluid. Generally, the method comprises the steps of:
shrouding an inner conduit 12, 112, for example, by disposing the
inner conduit 12,112, within an outer conduit 14, 114; allowing the
inner conduit 12, 112, to transfer a load to an external component;
placing the inner conduit 12, 114 in fluid communication with at
least one other fluid-conducting apparatus (e.g., the inner conduit
12', 112' of the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus 10', 110',
210'); and delivering fluid to the inner conduit 12, 112. To allow
for coaxial fluid flow, the method may further comprise the step of
delivering fluid to the outer conduit 14, 114.
[0107] Accordingly, the present invention provides a shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus that may be used to conduct fuel through
an FAA classified "ignition zone" of an aircraft in an
FAA-compliant manner. By using the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus of the present invention, fuel may be transported through
an aircraft "ignition zone" or through other places under a double
failure condition.
[0108] Previously, the FAA regulations allowed fuel to be conducted
through single-wall conduits. However, the FAA regulations now
require that fuel being transported through aircraft "ignition
zones" must be contained within a shrouded conduit so that no
single failure (e.g., leak or rupture of a conduit) will jeopardize
the safe operation of an aircraft. By installing or retrofitting
aircraft with the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus of the
present invention, the aircraft will satisfy the FAA regulations
pertaining to the use of shrouded fuel lines. For example, the
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus may be installed or retrofitted
onto existing aircraft such as the B-747.RTM. family of aircraft
(e.g., E-4B, 747-200B, among others), the B-767.RTM. family of
aircraft (e.g., Global Tanker Transport Aircraft (GTTA), AWACS
Airborne Warning and Control System, among others), and/or the
B-737.RTM. family of aircraft (e.g., Wedge tail, among others) from
The Boeing Company. By retrofitting any of these existing aircraft
with the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus, the aircraft will be
capable of being FAA certified by means of a Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC). The shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus is also
qualified for military applications under existing military
standards.
[0109] In addition, the support members and joints each define leak
detection passages used in conjunction with the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus each define leak detection passageways.
These leak detection passageways allow a single leak detection
system to detect leaks across a plurality of shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus.
[0110] The joints also have advantages associated with them. For
example, the joint 84 provides a relatively flexible connection
that is able to expand and contract as the need arises. Or for
example, the joint 284 provides a relatively fixed connection that
allows for the transfer of loads across the joint 284 from one
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus to another and/or from one
shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus to an external component.
[0111] The present invention also allows the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus to be removed and/or replaced as a
single unit. Accordingly, the shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus
may be conveniently removed and/or replaced without having to
remove surrounding support structure or other components of the
overall fluid-conducting system of which the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus is a part.
[0112] Moreover, the present invention also allows for various
lengths, sizes (e.g., inner and outer diameters), and shapes (e.g.,
straight, curved) to be used for the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus. For example, an installer may select a shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus having an appropriate length, curvature
or flexure to accommodate for tight places, corners, and/or
immovable objects around which the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus must be positioned. Accordingly, the present invention
provides great flexibility to the installer of the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus. Indeed, the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus can be tailored to any of a wide range of
fluid-conducting systems.
[0113] The shrouded fluid-conducting apparatus is also more
economical to manufacture than the shrouded conduits presently
recognized in the art. Moreover, the present invention also allows
for the use of standard bend radii with the shrouded
fluid-conducting apparatus and for the use of currently existing
tube clamps (e.g., bonding clamps 88, 288), tube supports, and tube
mounting means. Accordingly, the shrouded fluid-conducting
apparatus can be easily retrofit to other fluid-conducting systems
in aircraft, among other locations.
[0114] The description of the invention is merely exemplary in
nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the substance
of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the
invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure
from the spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *